Paulukaitis... it's not Greek...Guess Again

Valentine's!

2012-01-16T16:32:00.001-05:00

I know I took these pictures this morning, but I had to have them on my wall!

I went over to Wal-Mart and them printed. I even finished spray painting my new frame so I could put this up before I lost momentum to do it. I love the way it came out.

I had to add a few pictures of the rest of my decor.

My husband is a student so we have a budget. These are last years pillows I made from leftover fabric and the red pillows are from a quilting project (leftovers).

Doesn't frugality look awesome!

I am so happy how they look.

Here is our table.

Place mats I got after V-day last year for like $2.

The flowers are a year round thing.

My husband gave those to me when he proposed.

Red carnations are my favorite flower.

Kool Smiles Do NOT go there

2011-12-22T12:35:00.001-05:00

My four year old son had a dentist appointment at Kool Smiles on Lawernceville Hwy at 10 am. This was my son's third visit to this location and ever to a dentist. When we got into the room I informed the dental assistant that I did not have experience with dentist and to explain to me what was going to go on. She informed me they were going to do a filling on his front teeth and if the teeth were to thin then they would do a crown. She explained to me what that was. I had asked to give him nitro to help him. He was very upset about putting it on his face. He was crying a lot. A male dental assistant came into the room and started to try to help calm my son. His version of help was barking a my son like a drill sergeant would to a cadet. When my son kept crying the employee grabbed my son by the chin and said, “Look at me, James, you need to stop crying.' The barking continued. He than told my son that he was going to strap him down on a board if he did not stop crying. Side note: I was not going to allow this. I would have left before they would have strapped him down to anything. The male assistant then went to get the board. At this point I asked both of them to step out of the room. Within minutes I got my son calm enough to where he put on the nitro mask. No more tears. I only have used nitro once myself did not know how it worked. I was trying to keep him calm and was helping him imagine that the mask was a special reindeer nose that helped him see Santa and he could smell the North Pole. I kept asking him to tell me what he was smelling while the Dentist got there. He was sitting there with the mask on for a good 8-10 minutes. He was relaxed, but I kept talking to him. No one told me to stop until the doctor was about to walk in because I said I think the stuff wore off. They informed me that it had not wore off, but that he needed to stop talking. It was too late at this point because the dentist was there and the poking had begun. I asked them to remove the mask. They held my son down. The female assistant tried to get my son calm. She was the only one who was kind and spoke kindly to him. She asked him a few things like what his favorite color was and if he liked certain things. I asked them to let him know what was going on. He needed to know what they were doing. This was done by the female assistant for the first part of the filling repairs, but did not continue through the processes. He is a child and needed to know they were not harming him. At the end the dentist and the two employees asked each other are you okay and thank you to each other. As the chair was raised so my son could be in the sit up position he was out of it. He had cried so much he was in a haze. This is when we were informed we had to leave. No one offered him a moment to gather himself. No one asked him if he was ok. No one said good job buddy. They acted like they were martyrs that had to endure him. When he rose from his seat he was sweating and the chair was very moist from him. We were shown the door and that was that. Kool Smiles is supposed to be geared for children. I took my son there because the dentist can be scary. They acted like he was a fool for crying, like he was not supposed to be scared, like he should know better than to cry. I will not be taking my children back there again. This was not the only bad experience we had with this location, but this is the worst of our experiences. Like I said we had only been there three times, but enough is enough. There are other dentist and I know there are ones designed for children that treat children and their needs. I do not recommend any of my friends to take any child to the Kool Smiles location on Lawreceville Hwy. Please re-post this blog to inform other parents who are looking for a dentist for their child.

Kardashians Give Big

2011-12-11T22:16:00.003-05:00

So last night I had the most amazing dream ever. I know it was dream because this kind of thing only happens when I sleep. So there I was watching Kim, Kourtney, and Khloe Kardashian (who I know nothing about, other than their brother was on Dancing with the stars) and they wanted to do something big. Something so big this Christmas, that Oprah would look like the Grinch. So what they did was have a guy randomly ask people what their Christmas wish would be. They could pick three things, any three things what would they wish for. I happened to be one of these lucky people he asked on the street.

I answered, "I would like to be out of school debt, visit my parents, and buy my parents a van or house." As I spoke these words out pops Kim ans says, "Here is a check for $30,000 to pay off your loans." I saw myself scream with joy and then a rush of tears fell from my eyes. I could not stop crying and saying, "Thank you!" I think I hugged her to death. Then she asked me why I was so emotional. I told her not only could I know pay off our debt, but that I would have a little left over to pay for a plane ticket home to see my dad. She just grinned from ear to ear and said, "Hey Khloe, come here." That is when Khloe pops out with four plane tickets, a rental car pass for Hertz, and a hotel suite for my family. I think that's when I knew that the Kardashians were always going to get Christmas cards from my family. I could not believe their generosity. Off we went with film crew in tote to see my family. We surprised them for the holidays. It was by far the greatest feeling ever. I didn't think there could be more for I was in Heaven for sure.

This is when the best part of my dream happened. You thought that part was amazing, just wait until you read what Kourtney and Kim did. SO there we were hanging out as a family tears like Niagra when Kim says she has a holiday surprise friend she wants us to meet. So my family and parents go off in a limo to this beautiful home. At the door we are met by Kourtney and her special friend Ty Pennington (I told you this was a cool dream!) He welcomes us into his home and it is beautiful. We have dinner with them and then he gives us a tour. He shows us his cool basement with this pool table that turns into a hockey table and ping pong table. Down in the basement is three treadmills, so he and his buddies can walk together when it is too hot to go outside. If you have ever experienced n Arizona heat, you know he is one smart guy. He then shows us this beautiful back yard with a coll playset, which my siblings play on for the next 30 minutes while we eat dessert. We are getting ready to go and Ty says, "I have a surprise for you" out pops a brand new mini van for my parents. This is a HUGE deal. My family has not been able to ride in the same car together in years, too many people. They are in desperate need of a new car. You can now imagine Niagra is a leaky faucet compared to the tears that are beginning to flood the desert sands of Arizona. He hands my mom the keys and says to my mom and dad, "Oh, by the way, welcome home Camarena family, welcome home." We look at each other surprised and then it hits us he not only handed her keys to a new van, but to a new home. The very home we were just in was a gift from the Kardashians and Ty. I was overwhelmed with the joy on my parents faces with the weight that had been lifted from their burdens when I felt a knee jab into my back and a small body cuddle next to me saying, "Mama, t-u wake up?"

I was dreaming. Oh, but it was a beautiful dream. I wish it was true. I was so sad being ripped away from the joyful faces of my family. I was so ready to just call the Kardashians family. At this point they deserved that title. They had given big. They, in my book, had blown Oprah out of the box.

Kim if you ever read this and you want to make my dream a reality, please do. I already have a title for your show, The Kardashians Give Big!

James

2011-11-20T16:48:00.001-05:00

"What are you thankful for, James?"

"My sister."

Shout out to Picnik.com

2011-10-18T16:11:00.003-04:00

I am one of those people who cannot afford really cool shots of my kids by a pro. I would LOVE to have someone take our picture and mount a photographers artwork all over the walls of my home. Some day I will be able to do this, but for now I get to play photographer. On occasions I get some really great shots of my kids. Like the following one of my daughter.

It is really cute, but the coloring is all wrong.

Look what I did in about 3 minutes.

My secret:

Messing with the exposure button on PICNIK

If you have not been to this site you should.

Two reasons:

1. It's FREE

2. You can make your

pictures look this cool!

You can also do this!

Sunday Talk

2011-10-09T20:09:00.004-04:00

Sundays are always days to get back into the sweetness of life.

I was able to give a talk today at church on charity.

I spoke on how charity can be shown in three ways.

1. We can show others the pure love of Christ and

put off the natural man by showing them we love them

I expressed this with my conversion story, how my sweet (step)mother INVITED me to church on a Sunday, as she often would. I sometimes declined and sometimes accepted her invitation. I wonder if she ever felt like inviting me, but didn't because she was sacred to? If she did I am glad that that day she had no fear. She showed me that

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."

I used to think this passage meant I had to die for my friends, but I have become smarter and know it means that I should put others before myself. That Sunday she did that for me. She showed me she had no fear to share with me the most beautiful part of her life with me. I am eternally grateful for that. I hope she knows that.

I am also grateful for my Father who had enough love for me to bring me up in a way that gave me pride in who I am. He taught me from an early age that I was a child of the Most High. He taught me to respect myself and others. He taught me to work hard for what I have. he taught me life has no short cuts. He taught me that God knows me and what I do. He taught me how to pray and the importance of scriptures. I remember as a child sitting on my Dad's bed as he gathered my sister and I to read scriptures and to pray before bed. I remember he would play spiritual music every Sabbath morning as we got dressed for church. I remember how diligent he was in showing us to respect the Sabbath to spend that day worshiping and reverencing our Father in Heaven. He taught me that I was special to him as he came to my soccer games, cheer practices, and wrestling practices to get me. He taught me that I was smart and I could be anything I wanted to. He taught me to never give up because God would help me when things got tough. My Father taught me a lot for a man who was on his own a lot. He may not be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, as I am, but he prepared me for the day I would find God's church restored. He helped me prepare myself for the blessings I have at this moment, my children and my husband.

2. Charity towards our families

Sometimes we think that helping someone we don't know, like the Good Samaritan, is when we are showing true charity. I used to think this way. One day I heard a talk that spoke on motherhood and how it was one of the greatest things we could do in this life. I thought, "Really?" The more I have thought about it being a mother is the best and most essential job on the planet. I did not have a mother for most of my childhood, but I had a Father who taught me things I am sure his mother taught him. I have learned that great charity is stop reading my book and look at my child's new Lego building. Stop fussing about my dirty house and take my children outside. My husband shows me charity when I am tired from caring for the children ALL DAY and he will do the dishes or pick up toys without being prompted. He does it because I know he loves me. The Savior would do that if he were here. I know he would. If we show those who are closes to us the love of Christ when they grow up they will do the same to those around them and to those closes to them.

3. We need to show ourselves charity.

You are special.

God knows you.

He made you.

He loves you.

He sent his only Son to die for you.

If you ever get to a moment where you doubt who you are and you will do as Enos. Enos prayed until he KNEW who he was. God told him a lot about who he was when Enos finally got his answer. God said, "Enos, thy sins are forgiven thee."

In that moment Enos knew he was special, God knew him, God loved him, he could be forgiven, he had a purpose on this Earth, he was of some worth, the things his father had taught him were true, and that no matter how rough things got he had someone to turn to. We need to have enough love for ourselves to spend time with our Heavenly Father. Life gets busy and we let everyday life take us away from those things we know we should be doing. I do not know one person who spends time in the scriptures and on their knees daily, regularly, and with devotion that feels alone and without. I know that once we do not spend time with our Father in Heaven we slip out of his sight and into darkness. For some of us this is a slow processes and for others it is quick. Show yourself love and do not allow yourself to get away from what is important. I have had to many special and sacred experiences to let all that I have learned and love slip away from me. I have at times not been fully invested, but I cannot allow that for I know this gospel means to much to me. My Heavenly Father's love mean the world to me. I want to return to his presences with my spouse and children at my side. Some may say that we don't know if such a thing is possible, but I know the feelings I have felt are real. I know them for myself. The beauty of the Lord's gospel is that we can all feel it for ourselves.

I am glad I was able to write some of my talk down. This is not word for word what I said today, but close with some added thoughts I felt like I wanted to express. I hope to increase my knowledge of my Heavenly Father. I also hope that my family both here in Georgia and Arizona know how much they mean to me. I have been blessed with the greatest and most loving family one could ask for. I do not know why I am so blessed, but I do not question it I am just humbled to have what I have. I could not ask for more. I love you guys so much and I miss you guys more than anything! I hope someday soon I can show my Arizona family my children and that I can just spend sometime with you all. I hope it is sooner than later. Love you!

Pre-Halloween fun!

2011-10-08T08:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween from my little ones!

Pre-fall fun

2011-09-17T10:36:00.002-04:00

It is being to look like Fall!

Can you say that I am excited? YES!!!!

I love the way I can go outside and play with my kids AND husband. He is not a fan of the heat and can take a lot of persuasion to go outside with us. When there is a crisp smell in the air and a cool breeze he is the one saying let's go outside. I love it!

I also love having baking smells in the air. My Mother-in-law happens to be a master baker. She makes the most yummy things. I sometimes have to stay out of the kitchen because I think to myself, "One more bit won't hurt......okay just one more.......one more.......no more....well maybe just one more........" If you have never had her baking you are missing out! NO you cannot have her. Find your own awesome in-laws.

One last thing about fall that I love....can you guess?

CLOTHES!!!

Fall has the best clothes. I can also hid my post pregnant belly in sweaters and stuff. I am getting down with my big self, but it is harder than last time. I don't have a walking buddy. Anyway back to the clothes. The fall clothes for children is so adorable! I can't afford many of the cute things, but if you wait long enough Target always have nice clothes for cheap! I got three pair of jeans, 1 khaki, 1 black pant, a pair of tennis shoes (James), a leotard, and tights for $44. Yes 5 pants, shoes, and the other two things for that price. I love the sales at our target.

Happy beginning of fall (while it last, but it will be back!)

Stationery card

2011-08-17T10:13:00.001-04:00

French Toile Scarlet Birth Announcement

Find hundreds of cute baby birth announcements at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Sunday, I love you!

2011-08-14T16:55:00.002-04:00

I love how quiet Sundays can be.

It is nice to have a day to

turn off the TV

go to church

sit and listen to hymns

have the children play quietly

take a nap

hang out

play a game

go for a drive

sit and read

stare at the wall

ponder

pray

relax

unwind

just be

It is nice to have Sundays.

What?

2011-08-12T16:15:00.003-04:00

I love my children

BUT

Three children will wear you out faster

than a full day at Disney World.

Being a mother of three has been hard. Only hard because I am so tired all the time. I think if I was not so tired, about to move, school starting for my other half in two days, a sick child, and a new born things maybe a little easier.

I keep saying to myself once......... happens things will be a little easier.

I hope HOPE that once we move to our new place (things are in there place) things can finally get back to "normal." I need a routine as much as my toddler does. I don't function well with uncertainty and boxes everywhere (if I spelled something wrong SORRY I need sleep).

I cannot wait to move. Did I mention that already. Our new place has a yard, enough said.

It also has windows. I love natural light. I function better when my home is well lite. I do not know why, but it makes me happy.

It also has ceiling fans in all the bedrooms!!!!!!

Isn't it great to know what makes me happy. Natural light and ceiling fans. Oh, and a yard.*

*This is my blog my blog and I can type like I want to. This is for your grammar nazis.

Moving on........

I know you are looking for pictures of the children and other fun stuff, but this time you just get text. When I get fancy and when I get some time I will post them. You know who you are.

I am off because my 3 minutes are up and the children are....

BRACE YOURSELF FOR THIS WONDERFUL QUOTE FROM MY COUSIN

"Scattering like roaches"

I must go coral them back in and make dinner.

PS. If you know a dinner fairy please send her/him my way.

Thank you.

Nora update.

2011-07-11T23:19:00.002-04:00

We are the hospital again. Nora has Jaundice and is under a light. It looks like she is in a tanning bed. She has this little mask she wears over her eyes. It keeps falling off. well it's fallen off like four times. I am afraid to go to sleep. The light can harm her eyes. I know I don't need to worry, but who can sleep in a hospital anyway. We were starting to get on a routine and now she has this little problem. She is a sweet girl and tough.

They gave her an IV in her tiny arm. She slept right through it. They drew her blood. She slept. She is brave, like her sister. I am glad she was so brave. I don't think I could have handled her crying. I almost cried when they put her under the light and were not going to wrap her up. She loves to be swaddled. She was so mad and I could do was pray that she would be comforted. I am so grateful the nurse changed her mind and let Nora be swaddled. She has been happy since.

She has been having difficulty eating. She eats a little and falls asleep, but tonight she ate for 16 minutes! I was so proud of her. Her last feeding was a whole 3 minutes long.

Little by little we are getting her on the right foot. I hope she heals soon. Elizabeth has a test on her kidney reflux later this week in Atlanta. Adam is going to the Netherlands later this week as well. I know all will be okay. It is just a little unsettling. I know Heavenly Father is watching out for us and he will do what he can take support and help us get through this little bump in the road.

I am so sleepy. I know I should be asleep right now, but it's hard to sleep when things are up in the air. I will pray she will be okay while I sleep. I hope her mask stays on and doesn't go over her nose. She will be fine. Someone will come in and check on her. They always do, right?

Please keep us in your thoughts. Let's hope little Nora's body weight goes back up and that her Jaundice goes down. Maybe we'll go home tomorrow if things improve.

James meets Baby Nora

2011-07-07T17:22:00.003-04:00

Welcome!

2011-07-07T07:56:00.003-04:00

Nora Denise Paulukaitis

2:03 am

7 lbs 14 oz

20.5 in long

She barely cried.

2 pushes and she was out.

Loved cuddling on her Mama and Papa.

Baby update!

2011-07-06T21:29:00.001-04:00

Dr. just broke my water!

Van

2011-06-11T08:32:00.002-04:00

We are getting a van! Yay! I am excited. I was really worried how we were going to be able to fit all three carseats in the back of our car. It would fit, but it would be a tight squeeze.

Number three is making her appearance in 26 days! I can't believe it. I feel so unprepared for this baby. I need to get her things ready so she has stuff to wear and diapers. I have just been so out of it for a while. My body has not been wanting to do everything I want it to. PLUS, I have two other children to teach and entertain. It can get a little rough, but my wonderful husband has really helped.

(Side note: Elizabeth is trying to sneak up on me right now. It is really cute.)

Details about the van. It is a 2000 Ford Windstar. How are we getting such a vehicle? It all started a few weeks ago when Adam's Aunt Karen and Uncle Steve came to visit for Brynna's high school graduation. We were just talking about the baby and when she was coming. Aunt Karen said, "I have a van I need to get rid of before July. It's in good condition and I'll sell it to you for a dollar." WHAT?!?!?!?!? YES!!!!!! I tell you this was an answered prayer.

Heavenly Father keeps blessing us. I know that if we continue to do what we can that is right we will be blessed. I can't believe how much we have been given by so many these last few years as we try to figure out how to be adults and parents. I married a great man and into an awesome family. I also was raised by amazing parents who taught me many things in order to survive being a grown-up.

When I get pictures of the van I will post them. Adam is bring the van home today from Alabama. He got to go on a road trip. I know that made him happy.

Some thoughts

2011-05-05T21:06:00.002-04:00

I would like to express my gratitude to being born in a time and country where modern technologies have kept my little girl healthy and safe. If she had be born in another time and maybe in another country she would have just been seen as a sick baby with a fever. She may have never been treated as to having a problem with her internal organs. This makes me grateful for smart doctors and nurses who take their jobs seriously.

Paying for medical expenses is not my favorite thing in the world, but I know that this simple operation saved my baby from further damage, sicknesses, and possible premature death. I was humbled in how much Heavenly Father loves us all. I know he helped my little girl be calm as she went through this whole ordeal. She was a trooper.

The morning of her surgery Adam gave her a blessing. He laid his hands on her head and with priesthood authority passed on to him, not because he is special, but because he is worthy to hold this power, he was able to receive comforting revelation for our family. As he laid his hands on her head I know he became the mouth piece from our Heavenly Father. He blessed her that all would go well and that she would be calm and peaceful as the doctors and nurses did what they needed to. She did. She allowed them to check her, poke her, and more. She did not fight too much. I know it is because God has been close to her.

She is such a sweet girl and I am grateful to be her mother. I am grateful that she will be better and that she is so strong. I love her and look forward to watching her grow up. I look forward to teaching her what I and God would have her learn. She is my little angel girl.

I never knew how beautiful motherhood could be and is. I am grateful to have both my children and soon a third. Bearing, having, and raising children is the greatest gift I have been given. I hope all mothers realize and understand how valuable we are. I did not grow up having a mother. Once I got one I was grateful, but it was not until I became a mother did I appreciate my father and mother.

My father was my "mother" for many years. He did a great job. He did the best he knew how. I could not imagine myself in his shoes. His shoes were big and difficult. I love him for all he did for me. He sacrificed so much so I could have all that I have. He is my hero. He will always be my hero and he never failed me. So with Mother's Day coming up I say, "Thank You, Dad for being my mom and Thank You, Suzie for being my mom, too." I love you both. You have taught me and given me more than I can ever repay either one of you.

Bebe's Update

2011-05-04T15:22:00.002-04:00

She is out of surgery and on her way to recovery. We will get to see her in about 45 minutes. Pictures and more to come. (This is for those of you who don't use FB).

Pre-op

2011-05-04T13:17:00.003-04:00

Her cuteness did a great job getting ready to come to the hospital. She came with out a big fuss. She let them check her heart beat without pulling the monitor off her finger. She didn't really cry when they put the arm band on. She let them give her the meds that made her all loopy. I am so proud of her. The pictures are of her before they took her to the OR. She was very comfy as they rolled her away. She had her new blanket, that smells and looks better than her old one, and she had her Ollie. They have been really nice to us and made us feel very comfortable about the whole thing. We will know more as she comes out in a little while.

Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers. It has made Adam and me feel better and relaxed about this whole thing. Lots of love to you all!

Bebe goes to the hospital

2011-05-03T14:04:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is the big surgery day. We will get there around 11 and she will get operated on at 1pm. I am a little nervous, but mostly I am just ready for them to do it so we don't have to worry about any more daily medicine. I know she will be okay once it is all done and over with.

She has Kidney reflux meaning urine makes it's way back into her kidneys. Two of Adam's sisters had this procedure done. They are fine now. They both were little girls.

We will probably stay in the hospital for two or three days. We are thinking Friday she will be able to come home. I will keep you posted. Please keep her in your prayers. It should be a fine routine operation, but prayers always help. =0)

Bebe gets stuck in the car

2011-04-20T21:52:00.002-04:00

I babysit a little girl now and for the last few days I dared not go anywhere. Today we decided to head to the library. I thought I would be smart and get the Bebe out of her seat and put her in the front. She got out of the car when I was getting the other two out, so I put her back in, and shut the door. The door was unlocked. I got the other two out. I walked over to Bebe and discovered she had locked the door and on the floor was my purse with my keys and phone.

The story of my life!!!!!

Good thing a lady was getting out of her car next to me and that it was really overcast outside. I asked to use her phone and I called 911. I was like this is not an emergency, but I locked my daughter in the car. She is fine and while I was on the phone she unlocks the door. I was too slow, of course! I got off the phone and waited like 5-8 minutes for the police to show up.

As we waited the two bigger kids were so kind and played nicely in a pile of sand the found. I was grateful they were so happy just to be there. It would have been hard had they been crying or something.

Meanwhile, Bebe was in the car and cried a little until she discovered a booger. Yes, I said a booger. She made this booger her new found friend. For the next few minutes she began to decorate her arm, the window, and the side of the car door. I just stared at her and laughed. She had found a way to make a bad situation fun for her.

She loves being cute and in charge of things. The moment the motorcycle cop pulls up next to us she unlocks the door. She was free and happy. Thanks Mr. Cop for coming out, but she rescued herself. She is so Ms. Independent.

I must say that my first experience with having three kids with me was different, but ended well. I may survive three children as long as I can keep my keys and purse on me. I should have learned by now, but my keys have never been something I could keep track of. I should get a pacifier clip for my keys and wear them on my shirt or sew an extra key into all my pants.

Baby girl announcement

2011-03-08T14:41:00.002-05:00

My friend announced her baby by giving each of her family members a Valentine's candy box with a onesie that said, "Uncle Dave" with a heart. I thought what a cute way to announce their baby. I thought this would be a fun way to announce our little bundle of joy to our families.

Once again my craft funds were out!

I had to think fast so I could have my creation done before we Skyped with family later that evening. (This was a few weeks ago).

I found some white onesies, some tulle I had used on a tutu (that I never sold, so I took it apart), and some fabric paint. The only one I could find was glitter.

I used my Silhouette, that my wonderful mother-in-law and father-in-law gave me for Christmas, to cut the letters out on Freezer paper.

30 minutes later with quick sewing and painting I had these two beauties done.

My family (In my hurry no "A's" were done right)

My husband's family

We are only having one girl, but we showed the onesie as our way to tell the gender of the baby.

We had fun telling them and then posting on FB that it is a girl.

I love fun frugal crafts like this!

New blog!

2011-03-01T13:00:00.001-05:00

I made a new blog so I could archive blogs I like and stuff I make. I am excited! Check it out

Pig Stuck in Jello

Let me know what you think.

Bebe. Ready to potty train?

2011-02-21T20:21:00.001-05:00

So I was sitting on the couch reading my Facebook when I hear Bebe whining and falling. I thought what is she up to now? I see her trying to exit the bathroom with no diaper on. The reason she was falling is because she had peed all over the floor. My question is, "Was she trying to use the potty?" Maybe, the world may never know. All I have to say is that it would be awesome if my 16 month old decided it was time to start to potty train. More money in my pocket and less in Pamper's pocket.

Brother Gary Bengtzen

2011-02-21T11:19:00.003-05:00

I found out a few days ago that one of my favorite people from my mission had cancer. I was heart broken. When I read his family blog I found out he had grade 4 cancer meaning it was too late to cure him. He was diagnosed January 11th and he took his last breath yesterday. He was surrounded by family. He has been since he found out. He was a good man with a big heart. I know he was suffering with a lot of pain from his cancer. I know it must have been hard to watch this healthy happy man go through what he did. He was loved and will be missed. He was a good father, husband, and friend. His family is in my thoughts today. I am glad I was able to see how he treated his wife and the smile on his face. He was my friend. I will miss you very much Gary. May God bless your family and until we meet again, we love you and your beautiful wife.

Link to his family blog: Gary

Motherhood has it's boundries

2011-02-17T10:34:00.002-05:00

Snuggle time should not while you are in the restroom. Seriously I draw the line there. I don't mind, every time, when my kids walk in and out of the restroom, but come on let me have a moment to myself. Snuggle with me when I am in the living room or in my bedroom. The joys of Motherhood.

My body

2011-02-13T11:58:00.002-05:00

stayed home from church today and slept. My back and now my neck hurt pretty bad. I am going to see my doctor tomorrow to see what can be done for relief. I feel like the pain has crept up my back and is giving me a stiff neck. I do fine, most of the time, standing. Sitting has been such a chore between the aches and pains and the nausea and sometimes headaches that I get. The headaches have decreased except for the pressure that builds up between my eyes almost like a migraine. This pain usually occurs later in the day when I sit.

I have been trying to be a good sport and to do almost everything that is required of a mother of two and a wife. Some days, like I had two this week, are awful. I want to feel good today. I really do.

I have not been wanting to eat, but force myself because I need to. Food is just gross and makes me feel all gross inside. Yesterday/this morning has been the worse. I finally just had to eat a PBJ. You know it taste pretty good right now.

I just hope all the heat patches and Tylenol I am taking are okay. I don't want to hurt the baby. The doctor prescribed them so I should be fine. I just worry about that. I just want it to be okay and healthy, as any Mother would.

I hope to have good news or some relief tomorrow when I go see my Dr. I am kind of nervous to hear what will be said. I don't want to be put on bed rest. I just can't do that right now. There is too much going on. Adam doesn't need the extra pressure to take care of us with all his classes and teaching.

I know everything will be okay in the end, but it is hard when you are going through something that you have not before. I am grateful for friends and family who have been supportive with love, good advice, and help. It has been very humbling to know so many people care about my family and that everything is okay with us. Thank you!

Kroger

2011-02-03T22:49:00.003-05:00

Kroger had a great sale this week and mine is located by a Pet store and JoAnns. Both convenient for me. I remember why I don't shop there. They have a MILLION different kinds of Kroger yogurt, but five flavors of Yoplait. I am a yogurt snob. I will admit it openly. For some reason I must have my yogurt in that little Yoplait container. I just can't eat it any other way. I have tried. I really did. Come to find out my husband is a yogurt snob, too. He must have his in a Yoplait container as well. So I must say good-bye to Kroger and hello to my other options. Publix and Wal-Mart have the best Yoplait selections, including Blueberry Pomegranate and Acai Pomegranate. they are so so so so so so so YUMMY! I want one now...., but I went to Kroger so I must settle for Very Cherry. Next week I will be back at Publix where milk is expensive, but they sell my yogurt.

2011-01-31T18:28:00.004-05:00

I have been really wanting to do something with my kid's room, but I have none money. I have been wanting to do this for a really long time. I have been reading some really good craft blogs lately and you know what? You can do crafts for almost nothing, in most cases. So I decided to do an Extreme Makeover: Frugal Edition. I will show you what I had to work with and what I spent extra. So if you think you want to do something like I did you can do it with what you have lying on at home and in many cases what you find at the dollar store. Most of my friends are in the same boat as me. So I hope you enjoy while I toot my own horn.

Bebe's side of the room before the makeover.

Bebe's decorations.

This is fabric I had left over from James Birthday last year that I never used. The only things I bought new and extra were the felt castle and ribbon, both from the dollar store. My projects total cost $2. It took me like 30 minutes to do!

This is a white board I bought at the Goodwill 2 years ago for like a $1. My father-in-law made me this awesome frame. I had stopped using this board like five or seven months ago. I no longer have an office so it was sitting behind my bedroom door.

Buddy Boy was helping me as he Irish danced on the board.

Bebe joined in on the fun.

Bebe's new hair bow holder.

Second craft: Thia is the stuff I had lying around.

I got the Letter at Hobby Lobby for $1 and the frame from the

Dollar store for, you guessed it, a $1.

I cut the fabric.

I glued the fabric.

Bebe's new room!

We had everything lying around except the flowers.

I got them at JoAnn for $2.50. My expensive find.

Shown here with two hair bows.

I am planning on adding some vinyl onto Bebe's wall that says, "Once upon a time.." I got some for $5 and I will be able to use my new Silhouette machine. Now I am going to start on James side, but I think I will wait until next month. He wants a baseball theme. I can do that. My total cost on my make over is $8.50 (including the rose ball hanging from the ceiling and the one I have not, yet made). I will have to see how much of the vinyl that I use and I will include that in my makeover final count. I am excited. I want to see how frugal I can be with Buddy Boys side of the room.

Valentine decor

2011-01-21T16:48:00.002-05:00

I got bored/ ambitious today. I made some slip covers for my pillows in my living room, a conversation heart Valentine banner, and flautas for dinner. I have to make dinner before 2 otherwise food grosses me out.

I am really proud of my decorating on a super budget. My pillows and banner cost about $6. The banner was not as cool as I wanted it to be, but the pillows look nice. They could use zippers or buttons, but they work. I have to work on my name plaque and wall art. I am excited.

Dear Child With In

2011-01-19T21:35:00.002-05:00

Today was one of those days where my body could not keep up with my schedule, meaning it wanted to sleep, BUT I have two toddlers. My son ever so sweetly tried to get his little plastic balls and Buzz Lightyear into my blanket as I snoozed on the couch. What did I do? I did what any big fat meanie head would do, I yelled. I said, "I am sick, don't you understand that!" He cried. I wanted to cry.

Dear Baby in my Belly,
I love you very much, but you have two amazing siblings that want to play really badly. I am trying really hard to play with them and do all the things I did before my energy was zapped out of me. I understand you need me to survive, but leave a little bit of energy so I can play catch and "fight" with James. He loves to play a lot! So keep that in mind the next time you eat, breath, move, and whatever else you do in there.

Love,
Mommy
PS Love James, Elizabeth, and Daddy
PSS Love the dishes, cooking the meals, the laundry, and all the other stuff that must be done

I felt like this needed to be said because after dinner James came up to me, hugged me, and said, "I miss you, Mama." I wanted to cry. I miss me, too. Being pregnant is a short, yet lonnnnnnnggggggg time.

I hope all five of us survive the next few months. Five being James, Elizabeth, Adam, me, and the baby. If you have any energy boosting ideas please feel free to share.

2011-01-17T12:01:00.004-05:00

I know birthdays for my kids are far away, but two of my friends have been picking my brain for birthday ideas for their kids. So my brain started to wonder what kind of party my kids should have. I have decided on a baseball theme for James since he loves the sport. I asked him if that is what he wanted and he said, "YEAH, MAMA!!!!" So I think that one will be a go. Now for Elizabeth I am debating between ladybugs, bugs in general, jungle, or Raggedy Ann. I have found this amazing blog that shows so AWESOME birthday ideas. I also have found several decoration ideas and tutorials on how to make my birthday dreams come true. Let's be honest some of the birthday preparing and "making it happens" are because I wish I had had "THIS" when I was a kid. So a part of it is for me. I am just being honest, call me self-fish if you wish, but moving on. So here is the link to my new favorite amazing blog Kara's Party Ideas.

I know you will be amazed and you too will fall in love with her blog. I wanted to throw a party after I saw some of these pictures.

If you are impressed here is another blog that will get your creative mind going for your kids birthdays, too. The Cake blog

I really love these blogs! If you know of anymore let me know.

It's a Baby!!!

2011-01-06T16:11:00.002-05:00

So it is true, we are expecting number 3!!!! I am about 12 weeks along. I will know more once I see my doctor. I think it is a boy, but we shall see in a month. We are really excited and we have known for a while. It was so hard to keep it a secret! I wanted to tell everyone, but I was able to hold this secret for a while. I have been feeling a little ill, mostly tired, and I have had a lot of back pain. It's okay because we shall soon have a new edition to our little family. If it is a boy we are wanting to name him Joseph Kazimir and if it's a girl Nora Denise or Catherine Julia. We shall see. I think it's boy so I am banking on that. Maybe it will be quadruplets and we'll have to think of others names like Spongetta or Tater P or Spud or James Too or George Foreman. Only time will tell.... So check back and I will keep you posted!

Pictures with Santa

2011-01-05T14:59:00.004-05:00

I finally got our copies of our pictures with Santa. I think they turned out pretty good. My kids really liked the big guy. At least we got our picture taken, right? I think we still look pretty good crying, frowny faced, and all.

First day of Primary

2011-01-02T18:34:00.003-05:00

Today was James first day in Primary! He is officially a Sunbeam. I just about cried when he walked into the Primary room. I had to look away. My little man is all grown up and I can't believe it. Time flies so fast. It's a good thing I am told, but I wish I had more time to with him in at his different stages in life. I love him being little. There is just something sweet about a small child.

Back to Primary. He was a little bummed not to be going to Nursery. He almost wouldn't stay in the Primary room without his Dad, but I told him he could have some chocolate if he stayed. When it was all over he got his reward. He was happy, but he also had a blast in Primary. He told me he, "Sang songs, Mama, SANG SONGS!" He has been singing, "Hello, hello" since we got home. I think he likes that song.

I think it was a good experience for him. He has been a pleasure to teach knew things to. He knows the first four Articles of Faith by singing them. This month we are going to be working on number 5. He is so smart as all little kid "sponges" are.

Daddy and James showing off their, "Diamond ties!"

More Diamond tie pictures.

She was too cute not to include in this post.

Ready to go!

He just looked cool in this shot.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T00:10:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! Ate my cheese, drank my cider, and kissed my Sweet heart! The new year is starting off to a good start!

A kind of Christmas letter

2010-12-24T05:29:00.002-05:00

I have not been felling well and Christmas is just around the corner. I have already read my scriptures and my blogs and it is only 5:30 am. Sigh.... I slept a lot yesterday so now I am here awake an typing. I have a lot on my mind, but none which I want to write. I know how sad is that. another great SIGH........

I guess I can talk about my kids and husband.

Adam: He is doing really well. He finished a really intense semester. He will be starting the end of year two in a few weeks. He will have an even more intense time. This is what he will be a part of in a few weeks. He will be teaching two courses in Intro to Linguistics and taking three classes. Two of those classes will be done in the first six weeks of the semester. He will basically live at school. He will not see us for that time well maybe on Sunday. He is going to be one busy bee.

James: He is growing to be such a big and amazing kid. I love him so much. he has a few favorite things, TV/movies, bowling, and playing with our neighbors. He got a bowling set for our family Christmas that we had at home on Tuesday. He has not stopped playing with it. He took it to the mall the day we got it and has slept with it every night since then, too. He had to bring it with him to my in-laws. He makes me smile. He has really learned a lot of new words, too. He also really wants to go to school like Daddy and he wants to play soccer. He loves soccer. He will be a lot of fun next fall and maybe he will be big enough and we'll have a little bit of money saved so both his dreams can come true.

Elizabeth: This little girl is a little pistol. She is so feisty and if she wants something she will do her best to get it or scream and cry about it. Her favorite drama pose is to throw herself on the floor and let me tell you she has a really good sad face. It breaks your heart. On another note she is a sweet girl. Boy is she so cute! She can drive her brother crazy by touching his toys or by snatching his stuff from him. She can also eat, in fact one time she ate three pancakes for breakfast. They were not little pancakes either. We have to keep our eye on her because she gets into trouble faster than anyone else I know and she is a climber, too.

Wendy: I have been just taking care of my kids and working on making a little money on the side. I have had a successful Scentsy year. I promoted this year to a Super Star Consultant which is one level under a Director and I hope to reach this goal by February. We shall see. I also make hair bows and sell them to a local shop for their customers. I have had fun doing that and hope to continue to make new things so I can bring in a little extra for my family. Every little bit helps.

I guess that wraps us up for the year. I am sure I will think of more later and maybe I will write about it or I will just think about writing it. I guess this is like our Christmas letter. maybe next year it will include a trip out West? Fingers crossed!

Look at what I made!

2010-11-28T22:58:00.003-05:00

So last weekend I forgot to bring us church clothes when we came out to Lilburn. We really don't have a lot of money, but I thought we will just go to Wal-Mart and get me a skirt and James some stuff. WRONG!!! The cashier lady was way rude. I am glad she was. I still had my $30 and you know what? I have been ready this awesome blog Sutton Grace. She saved my life and a trip to Athens. You see she makes clothes out of clothes she already has.

So I went hunting in my in-laws house. I found an old dress shirt of Greg's and did some alterations and made James a very nice dress shirt! For you guessed it, FREEEEE!!!!!! My awesomeness did not stop there. I needed a skirt so I found a pair of old dress pants that Adam had. I cut the leg seam and sewed the legs together and made me a nice skirt. I am awesome and so blessed. Heavenly Father knew I did not have the money to buy us clothes so he helped me make something awesome and functional when I really had nothing to work with. It was so cool.

Here I go tooting my horn again.

I really do love my craft blogs. I just made an awesome Christmas decoration. I took a piece of scrapbook paper, a cup, and some tissue paper. You know what I made? Some awesome expensive looking home decor. Expensive meaning it would have cost me anywhere from

$5-$10 to buy at Target.

I just love being creative and having other people tell me what I can do with my creativity.

happy Early James Birthday!

2010-11-27T12:26:00.003-05:00

Happy early Birthday to my little boy. I can't believe he is so big. Where did the time go? I love my little boy and he will always be my little boy. He has grown so much!!!!

He loves Thomas the Train, not really the show, but the train. He loves to play with the train set at Barnes and Noble and the Education toy store at the mall. He also enjoys watching TV, playing sports, especially soccer, and eating popcorn, pizza, and cheese. Sounds like someone I know.....

Sneaky pants

2010-10-28T23:26:00.006-04:00

Do you see her creeping her way into his bowl. She is one sneaky little girl.

Next thing I knew she had his bowl.

She went to town on the yogurt. This was one determined little girl. Yes, she did end up taking a bath afterwards. She loves baths and tried to get into the tub fully clothed. Which reminds me that her brother had gotten into the tub fully clothed a few months back. He came into the room socking wet. He was very proud of himself, but back to her.

Here are a few shots of her happy yogurt moments. It is never a dull moment in our house.

Birthday and some other pictures

2010-10-10T21:44:00.013-04:00

"Seriously, I have had enough."

"What did I get"

He just had to try this out.

James really wanted to play, too.

Hannah is four months old. Elizabeth 1, on Tuesday Oct.12th.

"You want some, too.

Fist full.

She ate almost half the cake.

Hannah did not like Bebe taking her wand.

My studly Father-in-law.

Bebe watching General Conference.

James and conference.

Chalk fun.

Pretty, Adam. The End.

Elizabeth maybe walking soon1

2010-08-22T18:21:00.001-04:00

Here is her Highness at her best! Let's see when she will really walk. She is 10 months and 10 days!

What's up with us?

2010-08-08T22:49:00.002-04:00

Things have been crazy. I am grateful for the summer, but I am ready to have Adam back home and in school. I have missed seeing him on a regular basis and I think his brain will be happy to have Linguistics oozing from it.

I am happy and a bit nervous to report that I will be working two very part-time jobs. I am working at two different shops in downtown Watkinsville, GA. They are Mom and Pop type shops. One is a Span and Patio shop where I will work one day a week and somtimes on weekends and the other is an Organic type store where I will work twice a week. I like both places and the owners so I am sure it will be a good fit. I have been preparing myself for this so it should be good.

I will still be doing Scentsy. I have been getting a lot of business the last few weeks so let's keep up the good work on that end. I really like selling Scentsy and wished it would be my only job so I could stay home all the time and play with my kids, but I am not quit there. i could do that, but Adam will be focusing on school only this coming up semester so I am going out into the real world for employment. Next semester Adam will have a teaching position, fingers crossed that it will still be available for him, so I can return to being with my kids or hey I might like working and continue to do it until Adam is out of school. We shall see.

The kids are getting so big and tons of fun. Elizabeth is as busy as ten bees. You cannot take your eyes off of her. She gets into everything and has learned how to get out of the seatbelt at the grocery store. She is good and fast. She is so skinny that it is easy for her to escape. She likes to be in the basket part with her brother, but she likes to stand up. It's okay, but I have to stand next to her the whole time. She is has her own opinions about things and she will let you know. She really loves her brother and anything he is doing or has. She would follow him off a bridge. She loves that guy.

James on the other hand likes her sometimes. He likes her enough to give her a kiss every now and again. He let's her play with his toys unless he is playing with them or he is in one of those "MINE" moods. He can make her laugh on a dime which he prides himself in. James is a lot smarter than I give him credit for. I only say this because he wasn't talking for a while and now he says and does things I didn't even know he could say or do. He can count to 20, 10 without a prompt. He even counted every other number with me until I got to 15 and then he got a little hung up. He is so cool. I love his imagination. He can make a gun or sword out of anything. When a kid says a trophy with a keynote is a golf and tries to tell you that's what it's for that's pretty cool. He also uses the back scratcher as a golf putter. Today I was sick and he even had me playing bad guys with him. I couldn't get out of bed so he came into my "cave" the blanket and hide from the bad guys. When they got close enough he jumped out and shot them with his finger guns. I helped by throwing explosives as I peeked my head out of the blanket cave. It was nice to be able to play even though I didn't feel well.

I love my kids and my husband. They are the world to me. They make me laugh and are so amazing.

My sweet husband knows I am not thrilled to work and that I didn't feel good so he has been doing a lot around the house. He has done the dishes, vacuumed, laundry, diaper changing. He is awesome!!!! I love you. Adam. He has made me having to go to work a lot easier. I am grateful for that.

2010-07-11T23:20:00.005-04:00

Random sign, I am not sure what this event is, but it sounded country and back woods-like. I think I would enjoy going to whatever this is.

Fourth of July fun!

2010-07-05T00:17:00.002-04:00

I am grateful for my country and for the freedoms that I have and for those who have fought for me to have all I have. I am grateful for my family and the love they have for me. I am grateful for the blessing my God has given me and those he will, yet give to me.

Now that I got that out there here is a blurb of our weekend.

We got to Huntsville, AL on Friday night. We went to go see Aunt Karen and her puppies. James loved the dogs. He thought they were pretty cool, but most of all he loved the dog toys. For dinner we all went out for Chinese food. It was good. Then it was off to the hotel for night. It took a while for the kids to fall asleep. James slept in his own bed by himself.

The next morning after breakfast we went over to the duck pond for a walk. It was nice that Adam's family had the same idea so we meet them out there. The ducks were so funny. They nibbled everything they thought to be food, even James and Grandpop's shoes. Elizabeth squealed at them. After our park adventure we were off to Auntie Karen's again. It was time for the annual Water Displacement Competition (basically, they all cannon ball into the pool and see who makes the biggest splash). Only this year the pool was not quite filled with water due to a repair so we played in it and tried to make splashes. James slipped into the deeper part and scared everyone, but he was fine. Elizabeth loved the pool and splashed her little heart out. I think she even got a tan. After our swim fun we hurried and got ready to go to the Huntsville Stars baseball game. James thought that was really cool. He kept saying, "Ball, ball. Mama baseball!" It was really cute. Elizabeth and James enjoyed the fireworks. He had me cover his ears and she just watched it. She cried a little, but this kid behind us was crying so it was sympathy tears.

Today we went to church with everyone. That was nice except my kids are always a little bit crazier on Sundays its like a habit. I know some of you can relate. James went into nursery real easily and Elizabeth really needed a nap. It was a good thing Grandmom got her to sleep for a little while. After church we headed over to Auntie Jeanne and Jaynne's house for dinner. The kids got to see their Great Grandparents, but Elizabeth was really tired so she didn't want to go to anyone. She warmed up after a while. It was good to see everyone. I wish we could have spent more time talking, but the kids were so tired. We got back to the hotel and took a two and a half hour nap. After our nap we headed over to Jay and Morayma's car wash to shoot off Boom Booms! (fireworks). James got to hold Sparklers. His Auntie Karen helped him. He thought she was pretty cool. He even got to help carry some of the big boom booms to their launch site, not my idea, but he learned quickly to run once the thing was lite. He didn't go up close to the lighting spot, but he went up with the "big boys." Elizabeth was not phased by the loud sounds or bright lights she just sat watching everything. It was great!

I had a wonderful time and I am sad to see the weekend come to a close. I will miss everyone. I wish I could say we would come back soon, but I am sure it won't be again until next year. Everyone here is so nice and makes me feel so welcome!

I love having family, even if they are not my blood family, near by. It is always a good feeling to know that someone loves you. A little part of my heart will stay here in Huntsville. I can't wait until we can some back!

Elizabeth eating a cracker

2010-06-28T00:16:00.002-04:00

HUNBABA Mei Tai Baby Carrier Guest Giveawayy

2010-06-27T20:46:00.000-04:00

HUNBABA Mei Tai Baby Carrier Guest Giveawayy

Randomeness and updates

2010-06-20T20:59:00.006-04:00

My awesome Father-in-law and 16 yr old Sister-in-law, Brynna made this for me!!! It is so cool. I have been wanting something to display my Scentsy stuff.

The boys just messing around.

They are all wearing green.

"My turn!, says James as he jumps on his Uncle Greg.

She loves the Gerber baby crackers. So tasty!

We went to this River/Lake/Beach park thing with the Young Women in our Branch. James did not want to get into the water. I think the idea of the ground/sand moving under his feet made him nervous. I don't think he really cares for water, but that is another story. He had a fit getting into the water, but once I lured him into it he was okay.

He loves his boat, as shown here. We got it at Wal-mart for like $4 and it has been the best $4 we have spent. We have used it four times already. It still works, how cool is that. He loves riding in it. I think he feels safe. He will say to me, " My bout, Mama my bout." It is really cute.

I had to get a shot of me!

This is what James did most of the time we were at the beach area. He was happy playing in the sand. He did get into trouble because I was filming him playing and he threw a big chunk of dirt at me. I guess I may have done the same if I wanted to be left alone, but I would have at least avoided the camera.

He is such a cute boy. I love this kid to pieces. He makes me laugh and proud. He is a good kid.

Elizabeth had a good time in the water. Here she is with Jonas, Young Women's President's son. She usually sits like this with James. She enjoys just lounging around and sucking her two favorite fingers. She sucks her fingers so much she one of her fingers is always swollen and a little red. Her fingers make her happy.

She took the boat out for a spin.

Digging for gold. He loves picking his nose. He calls food, "Nami" and he calls boogers, "Nami."

On our way to Lilburn!

Cutie number 1

Cutie number 2

(This was taken without looking and I was in the front seat. Not bad, huh?)

ritz

2010-06-15T00:34:00.002-04:00

Elizabeth loves Ritz crackers. She is even feeding them to herself. I tried to capture this on film, but our camera has a serious problem and decided not to work. She has been really cute and has a strong desire to feed herself. Her new recent foods are refried beans, yogurt puffs, and regular baby cereal puffs. James also has a fondness for her food. If she is eating it, he to must try it. "My this, this-sto (esto, this in spanish)." He loves his sister and she loves him.

Another Giveaway!

2010-06-07T20:51:00.001-04:00

You can win some really cute leggins!

Visit famof4favs.blogspot.com

GIVEAWAY

2010-06-06T20:48:00.001-04:00

All right peeps! Win this! A new leapster with apps, games, books, etc for your kid

Two of a Kind, working on a full house

Sick

2010-06-03T18:23:00.002-04:00

I am feeling so sick. I just want to sleep. Adam and the kids have been sick, I guess it is my turn. I am not to happy. Moms don't get sick days. I have a Scentsy event tomorrow!

Travel Tin!

2010-05-16T19:03:00.002-04:00

I have a Scentsy giveaway!

Need a free gift?

Check it out and you can win a Travel Tin!

Sweet and funny

2010-05-03T10:53:00.002-04:00

The first video is of Elizabeth's first jump in her jumpy thing. She has sat in it for a while, but this was the first time bouncing away. She loved it!

The second video is of our adventurous son. I had to video it and then I had to post it because he is way too funny.

Happy me

2010-04-14T08:02:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to say I have 11 followers to my new blog I am excited! I know it's not a lot, but it makes me happy. I am smiling. =0)

More Julie and Julia

2010-04-08T20:49:00.003-04:00

Ok so I wanted to sat more about Julie and Julia. Sometimes a movie just touches me personally. Maybe it was because she was kind of going through life when she had this "change" in her life happen. Maybe it was the fact that I can get obsessed with certain things and allow them to consume me. Maybe it was the fact that she got into a fight with her husband that she loved so much. I am not sure why, but this movie really touched me. Yes it did make me think about some of my dreams that I have. It did make me want to pursue being able to make clothing. Maybe my sister-in-law making an awesome pair of PJ pants and really cool top influenced that too. I have all these passions and desires in my heart to do certain things, but my whole life I have never been in the right situation to pursue my dreams in the fullest. What I mean by that is to actually be good at one thing. I have done many things, but never stuck with one thing to be good at it.

It was really good to see someone make a goal, struggle, fall, rise up, get a shot at something better, fall, fight, and then in the end be proud that she finished something hard. In the end she saw herself as a better person, her marriage was better, and she believed in herself. She was more then she had ever thought. She accomplished two goals when she was just trying to do one thing.

Like I already said this movie is a must see. There are a few f words and I was told a sex scene, but I missed that part. I was checking emails and such at the beginning so I guess viewer beware.

I hope this movie brings to your mind that you are worth doing something that will make you feel. It made me start sewing again. I am half way done with a baby quilt for a friend. I should have started it weeks ago, but at least I am half way there. Thanks Julie and Julia and my dear Erin P. You gals have inspired me.

Julie and Julia

2010-04-08T15:13:00.002-04:00

If you have not seen Julie and Julia stop what you are doing and watch it. I was impressed with the message of the movie. I can do anything. I feel like I can and no one can stop me, but myself. I also love how anyone with a desire to follow his or her dreams. I have many dreams myself. Many dreams which I have put on hold, but I don't have to. Nothing is stopping me, but myself. So grab some popcorn and this movie. Enjoy and let me know what you think.

Crawling? Not, yet...

2010-04-01T19:46:00.002-04:00

Just thought all of you would like to know, Elizabeth maybe crawling by the end of April or before. This girl can more.

Easter Gift

2010-04-01T11:08:00.003-04:00

Need an Easter gift? These cute little tins of Scentsy Room Sprays would make a great gift for anyone! I have these if you are in the Athens or the Lilburn Area.

I have the following Scents:

2 Welcome Home

Red Candy Apple

2 Honey Pear Cider

2 Berry Blush

Baked Apple Pie

Skinny Dippin'

Pineapple Paradise

Cranberry Mango

This deal is only good from April 1-4.

The Container and 1 Room Spray is $8 or 2 Room Sprays for $14 or 3 Room Sprays for $20

Every Mother deserves a "Thank You." Send her something Scentsy this Mother's Day.

All orders will get free shipping

Scentsy Catalog Online

We have A Winner!!

2010-03-31T23:07:00.003-04:00

Congrats goes to Mrs. Emily:

"I would put it in my bedroom. A retreat from the smelly diaper smell.

I'd choose Sunkissed Citrus, Pretty in Pink, and Flirtatious"

Thanks for all your entries and remember Mother's Day is around the corner. I will give everyone free shipping with any order. Feel free to contact me anytime.

Scentsy

Snifftastic.Scentsy.us/home

Afternoon laughs

2010-03-31T17:53:00.003-04:00

I know it's unorthodox for anyone other than Wendy, i.e. me (Adam), to post on her blog, but I felt I should post these videos I took of James and Elizabeth this afternoon. I stepped out of the room for just a moment and came back to the sound of Elizabeth cracking up like I'd never before heard. James was tossing his new Frisbee into the air (sometimes even hitting Elizabeth on its way down), and she just thought it was the greatest thing on earth.

I started recording from a distance in case they found out and got shy. They didn't seem to mind, though, so I later moved in closer.

2010-03-28T22:44:00.007-04:00

This is James at Greg's swim meet. He was cheering Greg on by saying, "Go Greg, go Greg!"

These are Elizabeth's first piggy tales. She looks like a Cabbage Patch doll.

"Say what?"

First baby food. Yum!

She is wearing the bib her Great-Aunt Helen gave her.

Baby food drool! Her first food was Apple Sauce Rice Cereal.

This was Elizabeth's St.Patty's day outfit. She wore a garter as a headband. She looked so cute!

This is what a family does when they are having fun with boxes that are lying around the house.

Pompies!!! This one is for you Erin.

Cheese! Guess who?

This is robot James riding his car. He is a good driver.

Elizabeth seemed like she didn't like the food. She chocked on it a bit on a later file. Maybe it is the texture. She really likes to be nursed and I am hoping to get her to like some other stuff. She does look really cute in her bib. What can I say she is such a cute girl!

James had a blast cheering for Greg. He didn't want me to film him. James kept trying to get me to film Greg swimming. I thought this was great.

Loveing all those who have entered my giveaway

2010-03-28T19:02:00.002-04:00

I was pleasantly surprised to see all the people entering in my giveaway. This is awesome! If you don't win and you want to order I will give you a free bar scent of your choice with every Full-size or Mid-size Warmer or Plug-in. Leave a comment with your email, if you are interested or Email me at jaberwax@aol.com

This is a good Mother's Day Present!

Updates

2010-03-25T14:07:00.003-04:00

James 2 yr old 4 months:

New obsession: Lilo and Stich

Times watched: 8 this week and it is only Thursday

New: Slept for the first time not in his crib this week. He slept in his tent and stayed there until 9:30am. This morning was night number 2 and he was knocking at his door at 8:30 am.

We may not not a toddler bed if he sleeps in his tent.

New old habit: Sitting in his old highchair for all meals is his favorite thing. Elizabeth now has to sit in someone's lap. Sigh....

Elizabeth 5 Months:

New: Weird sleep hours

Reason: Time change and traveling

Sleeping: She will fall asleep anywhere, even being carried in her sling sitting up right.

New Discovery: Baby food

Results: She hates it. Rice cereal, yuck. Rice cereal with apple sauce from a Gerber jar, yuck. Maybe we will try again next month? Breast milk she loves. Sometimes she even giggles while she eats. She enjoys it way toooooo much.

Adam 26 years 2months

Jobless: Loves it! He has become the Sloka-nator. Ask him what that is, but basically it's a Sanskrit thing and he is good at it. (I am a run-on pro)

Favorite rooms in the house: Spare room/office. Locks himself in there to do homework. Go Adam, make good grades!

Wendy 27 years 2 months

New: Doing awesome with Scentsy! 27th March show at the Classic Center in Athens.

10am-4pm Pony ride, clowns, petting zoo, building with Home Depot, etc $3 person

2 and under free

Desire: To have a clean house and have time to make a quilt or a dress, something

Miss: Family (Lilburn and Yuma) and making things with my hands

That about sums us up!

Giving away a Scentsy Plug-in!

2010-03-22T15:26:00.001-04:00

I love giving stuff away, especially when the product is awesome. Scentsy is a wickless, flameless, awesome candle company. I am going to give one of your readers a Plug-in System. This is great for bedrooms, dorms, kitchens, or bathrooms. They are as safe a night light and double as a candle. They are safe to have around children, pets, and people who forget to put out candles before leaving home. I will let you browse my catalog and chose which one and three scents/bars you would like. https://snifftastic.scentsy.us/home

Tell me why you love Blog Giveaways, what you would like to win, and where you would put it. Giveaway ends March 31, 2010 at 10 pm Eastern time. The winner will be notified and the prize will be mailed within 10-14 business days. Good luck and I hope you win!

A little Sunday fun

2010-03-14T20:02:00.003-04:00

James really wanted to hold Elizabeth. He got the opportunity to do this while sitting on Daddy's panza (belly). He thought he was pretty cool. He loves his little sister so much. She loves to lick him when he gets close enough. Yesterday, she left a blob of drool on the side of his face. It was a token of her love. James loved it, well he didn't complain or clean off the drool.

Aren't they the cutest babies ever!

Well baby and big boy, that is.

I love this picture; it is so expressive.

Here is a little video for your enjoyment. Oh and another one we included was a few days ago.

Hard times

2010-02-28T17:00:00.002-05:00

So my wonderful husband is soon to be quiting his job to focus on his passion of Linguistics. Some may say we are nuts or foolish, but when the Lord speaks all one can say is, "I must obey." I feel like Nephi when the Lord told him to go and get the plates(degree) from Laban. He didn't know what he was going to do or how he was going to get the plates. He knew his brothers really weren't on his side (UGA), but the Lord was going to make a way, if he obeyed. Well Nephi failed in getting the plates at first and finally he got them in a way that was really painful to his own soul. He had to do things he really didn't want to do or had done. This is the part that scares me. I don't like the unknown or the idea of having to do things that I don't want to or am against (welfare, medicad, wic, etc). Call me prideful or foolish, but I am not to the point where I can do this. I know many people in Adam's and my situation do this. I have many friends who partake in these organizations and are blessed with no worry on how to take care of their families. I know they are good people not being leeches on the government. I know these people and love and respect them, but I am not to the point where I can do this. It is seeming more and more everyday that this is the only option. My husband won't be able to work until the summer, if he can, and I have two small children to think about. What does one do? I know we all have trials and things that help us grow. I am not murmuring here. I am just expressing what is in my heart and my worries. I know the Lord will provide just as he did for Nephi so many times. Just as he has done in my own life time after time. I just wish we could have the comfort back of having our savings. This coming Thursday the committee that will decide if Adam can get some of his tuition back will get together to see if we should get it. I hope we do. This will keep the stress off until the summer comes and Adam can work again. I hope that I can continue to contribute a little with my home business. I know we are not alone. I know many of you out there face these same hardships and have made that hard decision of taking government aid or other ways of getting through these long days of school. I support my husband's choices a hundred percent even if I don't agree or understand some of them. I know they are what is the best for our family, that much I do know. I know this will help him and I grow together and with each other. Keep us in your prayers.

Genealogy

2010-02-14T19:41:00.003-05:00

This was our FHE lesson. We do FHE on Sunday because Adam is gone every night of the week until late. SO our FHE was on Genealogy. We learned about Adam's Great Grandfather coming over on the S.S. Haverford from Lithuania. We made replicas of the ship as our activity and then Adam shared his Valentine's Day Mozzarella stick chips with our

I just thought this picture was funny.

It's snowing!

2010-02-12T17:55:00.002-05:00

It looks like UT outside our place. Adam left early from work. He should be home soon. Elizabeth has been crying a lot due to her teeth, I think. James loved playing in the snow earlier and making a hopscotch. Pictures and video to come. I need to take a picture now, because it is much more snowier than before.

Random pictures

2010-01-31T19:42:00.008-05:00

This is Elizabeth today. I know babies should not be on their bellies, but what do you do when your child loves it? Don't worry at night she doesn't sleep on her back. I won't let her.

James feel over when I took this picture. He is so funny.

I like this picture of Adam. It is nice to be able to hang out with him for a few hours two days a week. James loved going to the park with Mommy and Daddy.

There goes James with Daddy!

Self portrait

Adam at the park. We had fun.

Peek a BOOOO!

Which shoe should I wear?

Look at what I found

She feel asleep in Adam's lap. How cute is that?

This is for my mom

2010-01-26T10:30:00.001-05:00

So this is an idea for Easter or Mother's day. Red could be used for Valentine's Day. Red looks really nice, but I only had a purple holder. Let me know what you think. Do I need to make improvements? What do you like and what could I change? Any other ideas.

Hamelito

2010-01-17T21:31:00.006-05:00

This is a little Sunday fun. Hope you enjoy.

P.S. James did this all on his own!

P.P.S. James really did break his daddy's computer screen....

Tired and late

2010-01-14T00:03:00.006-05:00

So it is late and I should be asleep. I had to type that sentence like three times. I couldn't get the keys right. I don't know why I am typing except just typing. Okay that is it I am going to bed.
Here is a funny link to enjoy.

The odd accent of Tangier VA (from AMERICAN TONGUES)

An Average Monday News

2010-01-11T15:36:00.003-05:00

I am glad to hear my post are making some people happy. My post will be short because I only have 20 or so minutes left of nap time and I have done nothing. Yeah this is normal, but all well.

Anyways, we had the missionaries over last night. It was nice to be able to host them in our own place. We fed them enchilada casserole only because the tortillas I made were pretty bad. I just can't seem to make them right anymore. I think I will buy a mix or something. I was going to make chimichangas (however you spell that word), but all well. They seemed to enjoy the food. One of the Elders was in the MTC when I taught the ESL1 missionaries. He remembered me. He was in ESL2 meaning he only stayed there for like 3 weeks. It was cool to talk about missionary work and stuff.

So we bought some couches at the Goodwill for like 80 bucks. It is a loveseat and couch set. I was so excited. They are nice looking and everything for a great deal! This guy, Shane, was sitting on the couches when we were looking at them. He overheard Adam's mom and I taking about getting them and he heard us calling people to get help bringing them to our house. He asked me where I lived and such. Then he heard I was going to rent a truck at Home Depot, which cost 20 bucks for 75 minutes. This is a good deal. He said he would do it for free since he was going that way and all. I love people in the South. He knew we were in need and he didn't know us, but he offered to take them and he did. His whole family was in the truck and all. He helped Adam and his dad bring them down the stairs and all. It was awesome. Thanks Shane where ever you are.

On a sad note I am allergic to my couches, but I am working on getting them were I can sit on them. At least I can stand to be in the same room as them now that I vacuumed them. I do plan on doing more to them though.

I am also looking fiercely on craigslist for a Washer and dryer. I might have found one today if the guy who called the guy I called doesn't show up. PLEASE don't show up!!!!!

One child just woke up so that is my cue. Sigh..... Until next time....

Day five in our new place

2010-01-06T13:43:00.002-05:00

We are doing so much better and getting into a routine. I got some of our pictures up on the wall yesterday and that made such a difference. It is starting to feel like "home" now. I still need another couch or something. We will get there. Adam had the day off yesterday so we went grocery shopping, got some seal thing for James' room window, and then went to lunch with Pa and Josh. They are some of Adam's friends who lived in Lilburn and are going to school in Athens too. They are really nice and their little girl, Chloe, is cute. They live on campus so it is a little far without a car. I was going to ride the bus today, but the maintenance guy has been here off and on so I stayed home. I have tons to do here anyway. Both kids are napping right now. Yeah for me. I am working on getting James' room warm enough so he can sleep in it. I have the space heater going to see if it will warm up the room enough that he can sleep in it tonight. I got my sewing stuff out so maybe later I will work on some projects. Things are looking up from here.

Quick note:
At lunch today James got this idea to dunk his goldfish into his water. Gross!!! I wonder if he does this in nursery or something. He was insistent that he do it. I let him and then he dunked everything in his water. I had to make a stop to it or else I was going to show him what I had just eaten. He is such a funny kid. I love him.

Elizabeth is getting big. She loves to be held, but she is getting better at letting me put her down for a few minutes (yeah for me). She also woke up this morning so happy. She smiled and smiled so hard that her whole body lite up. I love her too.

Adam is at work until way late, but I am glad he has a job. It is nice to see him in the morning and to have breakfast with him though. We rarely ever got to do that with him before. It is nice he doesn't have to get up early anymore. He is not a morning person. All and all things are looking up.

The move

2010-01-04T14:06:00.002-05:00

We have moved. =0( I miss Adam's family like crazy. It is so lonely. I have been so stressed the week before we moved that we have all been going to bed before 10:30 the last two nights. Let's keep this up. It is nice being in our own place, but it is cold. We have the heat set at 73, but the back bedroom windows are really poor quality that they let in the cold air. Our fridge is getting better at getting cold. I wish the guy would have fixed it before Adam went to work because now I can't go grocery shopping.

James, Elizabeth, and I went for a walk today. We didn't get very far because A: it was cold, B: James feel and cut his knuckles, C: we ran out of side walk, and D: there was really no where to walk to. He had fun and had to point at every crack in the side walk which was cute, only at first.

James and Elizabeth are both napping and I should be doing the same or unpacking. I just can'y get myself to do either one right now. I want to put our pictures on the wall, but all the furniture we have in the living room is our couch. I can't decide where to put it. If I move it I have to make sure the pictures will look okay with where the couch is. I know, Drama!

Quick funny before I forget. Yesterday, at church during sacrament meeting I look down as Adam reaches down quickly, I saw what he was reaching for. James had taken off on shoe and his pants were around his ankles. The boy was beginning to strip. My mouth hit the floor and yes I began to laugh. We got his pants and shoe back on. I bet the people next to us just thought, "Yup, they must be young parents. I remember when..."

Well I guess that is all I have to update at this time. If you know anyone in Athens, GA please tell them to become my friend. I have no car so I can't go anywhere... unless I ride the bus. Maybe I will try that on Wednesday or someday soon. Why not, I am up for an adventure as long as I am home by nap time everything will be ok.

Just a little Update

2009-12-23T08:04:00.002-05:00

It has been such a long time since I blogged. I have been way too busy. I will get into this again. We have had family and friends visit or coming back for the holidays and we are moving. I know we are moving again. It seems like we move all time time. I guess this is true. In a few days we will have been married for three years and will have had moved six times. I guess that is not too bad. This next move will hopefully be our last for a while. We love living with Adam's parents. They have been so amazing, supportive, and kind to us for the last 14 months. I can't believe it has been that long. I am going to miss seeing them everyday. Sigh..., but we will see them often I just know it.

Well on another note my really good friend from my mission and from Provo moved to Virginia last summer and she, her husband, and son came to see us for the last two days. It was nice catching up. I really miss her and her company. They left this morning and even though it was way too early for me, I was sad to see them go. It was cool for me to have them see where I live and to meet Adam's family. Who would not want to hangout with Adam's family. They are way awesome. I love them, as noted above.

I know this entry is short, but my son is yelling mom and wants to get out of his bed now. Sigh I wanted to get back into bed for at least another half hour. He needs to go back to waking up at 9 am like he did before. So I will post some pictures soon (I hope).

Black Friday Special

2009-11-26T22:41:00.003-05:00

Well, in the honor of Black Friday I too am giving you the opportunity to save on Christmas presents.
Here are my specials good all day Friday.

Shop and Save
Chose from one of three deals (Deals cannot be combined)
1. Free Shipping on your total order
2. Purchase a warmer or plug-in and get a free scent
3. Purchase $50 or more and get a free plug-in of your choice (you can give it as a gift or keep it for yourself)

You can get this deal by calling me or emailing me your order.
You can also have your items shipped if it is a Christmas present (10% of your total before tax is the cost of shipping)

Please feel free to forward this email to anyone who would benefit from this sale.

Have a Scent'sational day and Happy Thanksgiving,
http://scentsy.us/snifftastic

In daddy's shoes

2009-11-19T14:13:00.003-05:00

James loves wearing other people's shoes. It was so cute to see him try on his daddy's boots. He thought he was the coolest and let me tell you he does look pretty stylish. He is such a hoot!

Halloween and the Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-01T15:11:00.033-05:00

Happy Halloween!!!! (to those of you who observe it). On Thursday night we went to the pumpkin patch with the family. It was so much fun to go and hang out with everyone. James really wanted to jump in this really big pumpkin. He got in and stood there and would not jump at all. Sigh... he wanted to pet the rabbits that his aunts and uncle had, but we had already spent three dollars on the jumpy thing. It was ok he already went to the Yellow River Game Ranch and saw tons of animals. After we went to get ice cream and it was so good.

She held her first pumpkin.

James and his pumpkins!

It took us forever to get a good shot with the pumpkins. He was to busy not looking at the camera. He is still so cute.

Princess Elizabeth

He tried to sit on her before the picture was taken so I stopped trying to get them in a picture together.

He liked sticking his head in the thing after I did it before that he really didn't like it.

We took a picture like this at the Coke-a-Cola museum.

Everyone got into the picture and James was mad.

Pumpkins are almost bigger than her.

On Halloween we got ready to go to the church for the trunk or treat. I dressed as a cat, Adam was a Comic book Super Hero lover (he matched James in a way), James was the cutest Superman ever, and Elizabeth was an adorable ballerina. James loved the idea of going car to car and getting candy. He even walked to some cars a few times and got more. He got the concept really fast and carried his bag. I made a little bag for both kids from the same fabric. Later on we went treat or treating in our neighborhood and James thought this was even cooler. Later in the evening we went trick or treating in our neighborhood. I didn't think we were ever going to get back to our house. He had way too much fun going door to door. He tried to go into some of the houses, give back candy, trade candy, and even chose his own candy from the bowl. He was such a riot and people loved seeing him. He even said, "tri trit" which translated to trick or treat. I liked that part. The following are some pictures from that evening.

Mommy and baby.

Superman and his comic book lover Daddy.

Don't take my picture!!!

Kiss!! Smooch!

This is the best shot I could get of them together. Sigh...

She is so adorable.

Her little feet.

She is my little ballerina. (Yes, I made her tutu).

Adam's boss as the serpent and his wife "Eve" during the trunk or treat.

CANDY!!!! He actually was more excited about going car to car and getting stuff in his bag.

"Thank you" for the candy.

This was his first candy of the night.

Daniel Boon, Superman, and a comic book junky all in one place.

Everyone on the steps before the big outing around the neighborhood. Elizabeth stayed with Grandpop at home. He needed help passing out the candy.

This is our family shot. We are all so happy. James just really wanted things to start.

Yellow River Game Ranch

2009-10-30T09:22:00.011-04:00

Yesterday for our Wards playgroup we went to the Yellow River Game Ranch. It is this place were animals walk around and you can feed them. It is so random because the place is right off a main road in a wooded area. Anyway it was James, Elizabeth, and my first time. When we got there two deers came right up to us. It was really cool and James thought they were cool, but not as cool as the "woofs" otherwise known as chickens. He loved them so much. I think they were his favorite animal there. He thought it was so cool to feed them. He wanted to feed everything and anything he could. He really didn't pet anything. He thought they were cool to look at, but touching nahhhhh. I thought he was so brave for feeding them. I still freak out when they go for the food, but James was right there feeding even the turkeys by hand. He is so brave.

He was trying to feed a squirrel.

Feeding the goat was way awesome.

He really didn't get into the geese.

He tried to feed the horse, but he kept dropping his carrots.

The deers were right there trying to get some food.

The deer thought the baby seat was tasty.

He loved the chickens. Everytime he saw them he went to them and tried to feed them.

I wouldn't have the never to feed the turkeys, but he sure did.

2009-10-13T09:07:00.010-04:00

Baby feet! She is here at 8 lbs 7 oz 19 in long. The Paulukaitis Family presents

Elizabeth Deborah Suzanne

Elizabeth and mommy

Baby and Daddy

Proud Auntie Brynna

Aunt Kelly and the sweet angel baby girl

She is so cute!

Proud grandparents again.

Grandmom loves her new granddaughter

Grandpop say, "Cheese!"

Enjoy the photos and Elizabeth's first bath. She reminds us so much of James. We miss you James.

baby Update

2009-10-11T16:32:00.002-04:00

Sigh...........................

Baby update

2009-10-11T09:06:00.003-04:00

Last night we took a trip down to the hospital because I was having tons of back pain and really close contractions. I could barely walk and I was in tons of pain. I still hurt as I lie here typing this entry. I don't think I will be doing any moving all day today except for my routine trips to the restroom. So we got to the hospital and there are no other patience there, yet no one could find a wheelchair so I had to walk at my snail pace to the door up the elevator to my room on the farthest end of the hall. It was a long walk. I got there and they got me hooked up to the monitors. I was checked by a nurse who shoved her hand inside me and caused me to almost fly through the roof. I am dilated between a 2 and a 3. I was glad to be dilated and that my pains weren't fake. My contractions became really irregular between 2 to 6 minutes apart so they sent me home. Thus I am here now on my couch typing with one hand in between small contractions. Maybe today, maybe tomorrow these contractions will get strong and regular enough to get us a baby. I don't think I can spend another two days lying down. it is boring and I have too much to do, but it hurts to much to get up. Well that's what's going on with us. keep us in your thoughts and prayers that she'll come soon.

Baby Update

2009-10-08T19:00:00.002-04:00

No baby, yet. Sigh..., but I am feeling lousy so that could be a good sign. I went for a walk and had some good "contractions." I hate to really think they are real contractions because I don't want to get my hopes up. Who knows I could still be pregnant for a week or three still. Sigh...I am due on Tuesday or Thursday depending on which doctor you talk to. You never know what will happen though. All that I know is someday this month I will have a baby girl named Elizabeth.

Baby Update

2009-10-05T12:42:00.005-04:00

So I had an ultrasound today and measured 7 lbs 12 oz. My doctor said we can talk about inducing next week. Sigh... I was really hoping that he would say, "She is a good size let's induce her this week." I really think she is big enough. Adam was 7 lbs and I was 7 lbs 11 oz. Sigh agin.... He thought I was 37 weeks though and said the baby won't get any bigger. Yeah right... if she was only 37 weeks along she would have three weeks to get bigger, duh! In my mind I was like HELLO I am not 37 weeks I am due next week. You would think he would have looked at my chart. Geezzzz! So I was a little upset about that. Anyway she will coming out soon. Sign that it is not today, but all. Keep us in your prayers. Hopefully next week at this time we will have an induction date if she hasn't already come out. Oh by the way I am not showing any progress as of right now.

Shout out to Krista

2009-10-03T22:28:00.008-04:00

Ok so I have been working on this quilt for some time now. It was done in stages due to my "extreme desire" to finish it. It is not that I didn't want to do it, but the fact that I ad not, yet done something like this. I wanted to make this quilt that I saw on Etsy. Well I got the initial idea from Etsy. The one I made is way way way cuter. I am not just being bias. Anyway the concept of the quilt is for a baby shower. The white blocks are for people to sign at a baby shower. I really wanted to make one for my shower too, but I really had no umph to do it. I wanted to also really make one for my friend Krista. I only did not want it to look lame or give her "another" blanket. It just seems like everyone gets a million blankets. I didn't at my shower so I thought I would finish the blanket and see if she would like to have it for her shower. If not I am cool with that, but I think she will like it. NO pressure Krista. =0) Anyway the blanket on Etsy was just plain blue and white or pink and white. It was made out of cotton and cost like $200 to buy. As if! I made mine with love because love is all you need. The blanket is soft (due to the fact that I made it our of flannel) and kind of plushy because it has batting. I think it is so awesome and I love it. I took some close up shots so you could see some of the fun prints. Oh by the way the back of the blanket was inspired by Krista because she really liked the print. Once again you don't have to use it as a signing quilt or take it. I don't want to guilt you into anything. I had a blast making the quilt.

This is the back of the blanket. and my carpet. Ohhhhh Ahhhhhhh!

Ok I think it is so cute!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

baby shower and other stuff

2009-10-02T20:40:00.013-04:00

So here is the quilt that I am working on for Elizabeth. I am made at it right now because my measurements are all wrong and yeah I am frustrated. sigh. It will be cute when it is sewn.

This is just a cute picture of James when we went to the park. I have some video of him, but they are at the end of the post.

The next set of pictures is of my baby shower. It was so much fun and so relaxed. We didn't play any games we just sat and talked. My friends Tabitha and Krista got everything set up and had a great idea to open gifts as people came. It was an open house so people came and went as they pleased. It was so nice to be able to talk to some people outside of church. It was so cool all the nice things people got for Elizabeth. I know we have only been here a year, but it was so nice to feel like a part of the ward and be loved by so many. I get really shy around people sometimes, but it was so nice to see so many people come and support my family as we bring this little girl into the world. I am so excited to see her and have everyone swoon over her. I know she will be cute and if she isn't people will tell me she is so it will be okay. =0)
By the way the food posted above was provided by Tabitha, Krista, Kelly (my sister-in-law), and my mother-in-law with the roses on the cupcakes made by Brynna (my other sister-in-law.) She did a beautiful job even though she had tons of homework to do. She learned how to make the flowers in Young Women, pretty cool, huh?

I need to add one more thing in here. Ginger gave me a very special gift. I don't know if she realizes how much her baby blanket touched me. My grandmother was probably the only constant lady in my life until Suzie came in it. I know without a doubt if she was still here she would have made me a blanket exactly the way Ginger did. It was like getting a gift from her. I wanted to thank her for thinking of me and for letting me remember how much my grandmother loved me and how much she did for me when I was little. I know Elizabeth will love being swaddled in the blanket. Thank you!

You know me I have to be weird. Tabitha got the baby this cool bib which I had to wear and this beautiful little onesie. The "G" is for UGA where Adam goes to school.

Let's go around the room starting with the pink shirt: Kelly, Ginger, Deborah, Brynna, Brittany, Kim, Tami, me, and Rhinda.

Don't you love the display of gifts. I thought this was such a great and cute idea. I loved everyone being able to see what everyone else got for the baby. It was like a little boutique.

Jefrilyn and Kaolee just relaxing away.

Kimberly and Shanna looking real pretty...oh yeah and me in the corner.

Kaolee got these awesome shoes at Old Navy. I can see Elizabeth sporting these with a hot pink poncho looking like a little Lamanite.

These are my two buddies whom I adore and I am glad I have them. It is hard to find friends that you can do some really fun stuff with. I love hanging out with them and I am glad they like me. Our boys adore each other too. Thank you so much Krista and Tabitha for hosting my shower and for being such good friends especially when you both have so much going on. Poor Tabitha has been suffering from the flood and has had not hot water or gas for sometime now. Krista is due two weeks after me, but she might beat me to the finish line. She has a nicer doctor than I do. SO needless to say these two awesome women did a lot for me. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart and from my little family too.

I had to show off what we have so far in the babies' room. I was going to do yellow and blue for Elizabeth and I still am, but I saw these sheets at Target and feel in love with them. Rhina was amazing enough and picked them out when she went shopping. I love them and they look great.

I made the little doll quilt one day when I was board. I also have two little Madeline dolls and the baby doll that Kelly got Elizabeth. I love the little doll and I was glad she chose to get it for the baby.

Tami and Kim got Elizabeth some blankets that matched the bedding (don't they have good taste) and I must say this blanket is so soft and I want to sleep with it.

I have been looking for an extion bar like the one my dad made for my siblings closet. I saw one at IKEA, but it was not what I thought. I was so sad. I had seen one at Babies R Us, but it was like 25 bucks! Yeah I didn't buy it. I thought where in the world was I going to find one and soon. Today while at Wal-Mart I thought to check and there it was for $12. It was a great deal and I was already there buying stuff. It took me like 2 minutes to put it together. James really likes that he can see his clothes. He has an obsession of picking out his outfit. Sometimes it is cute, and some of the time it is way time consuming and annoying.

Don't her cloths look so cute and girly. I love it. Yeah I am having a girl. I love the pink.

I thought since I sowed Elizabeth's bedding I would show James stuff. He loves this quilt that I made him and doesn't like sleeping without it. It think it is cute that he likes it so much. He also loves his sea turtle. He has to play his song (he hits a button until it comes on) before he can lie down to go to sleep. We used to sing to him, but this is his new routine. Whatever gets him to go to bed is fine by me.

The fabric is there for the protection of the bed from the "BEAVER." This crib survived 25 years with no visible teeth marks or real damage until my son came along and thought his crib was a huge candy bar. There is a huge chunk of wood missing. I was afraid for his teeth and him swallowing wood and chocking one day. I am surprised he didn't hurt himself.

I made this a long time ago. I love it. I want one for Elizabeth, but her name is so long. I am not sure if I want to make one and buying one can be expensive. She does have 9 letters in her first name.

The following videos are for your viewing pleasure. I hope you enjoy ad try not to laugh to hard.

Update

2009-10-01T09:06:00.000-04:00

So here is the baby update. I went to the hospital on Tuesday 12 am and thought my water might had broken, but no such luck...sigh...so she isn't here, yet, but I do have my baby shower today. I am looking forward to being with friends and hanging out. I am happy she didn't come before we could celebrate her coming. It would have been fun to have her at the shower. On another note I am looking forward to being done with being pregnant so I can breath again and walk like a normal human. Ha ha ha. Anyways I hope everyone is having a great day. I know I am the weather here is wonderful. We are going to go play at the park with some friends so we can enough it while it last. Hey it beats the rain and flooding.

To Erin

2009-09-27T22:16:00.002-04:00

A little shout out to James favorite Aunt Erin! James loves his Aunt Erin and he loves the fact that he gets to see her on the computer. Recently she got a web cam and so do we. It has been nice to see her on occasion via computer. It is an excellent way to stay in touch with those you love. James gets so excited to talk with her and her kisses through the computer. His favorite thing is babbling to her, making faces, and then giving her a fist bump. He adores her as she does him. I just thought she would like to know that she is loved and missed by all of us out here in the South Lands.

PIZZA any way you want it

2009-09-26T17:43:00.006-04:00

Adam and I usually go on a date on Friday nights and this week we decided to order pizza and rent a movie. We also invited Adam's family and James on our date. Family dates can be fun. This one gave us a little surprise. James got a slice of pizza turned it upside down and backwards and than started to eat it. He did this for both slices he ate. It was really cute to watch. He must take after my brothers and father. Oh and he requested pizza for breakfast. Pizza is also my favorite food.

Check out the pizza

This is so good!

Mmmmmmmmmmmm!

Blankets

2009-09-25T08:37:00.008-04:00

Ok so these are not the pictures I promised. I told my mom I would show her what the blankets looked like that I made for my cousin's boys. They like Buzz and Woody so i searched and found some fabric and made these blankets. I made some a few months ago, but I thought they were too small so I had to remake them and poof this is what came out. I hope they like them.

Nose

2009-09-24T17:27:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the lack of pictures. I am planning on taking more. I have been kind of lazy in that department lately. Soon I promise soon I will have some pictures. For now enjoy a James moment...

So yesterday morning I gave James some Kixs. They look like little balls. We all know how much James loves balls. He was like, "Ball! Ball!" The next thing I knew he stuck a ball up his nose. Yes a kixs was up his nose. I think I scared him when I yelled, "NO!!!!" He cried and was done eating. The joys of parent and childhood.

Rain and rain

2009-09-23T20:42:00.002-04:00

So about two or three Sundays ago our Ward had our fifth week lesson on Emergency Preparedness. We all were thinking we will need that for some future date or the big one. Little did we know that Monday would be the day we'd have an emergency. It rained so much that a lot of the Atlanta area and surrounding counties would be flooded. Our basement stayed flood free thanks to Adam. He has a bruise on the palm of his hand from brooming the water away from our doorstep. He did a good job we had no floods. Some of our neighbors and friends were not so blessed they got water in their homes. Many roads have been down and today some of those roads opened back up. It has ben nice because it has not rained the last two days. The sunshine has given the DOT workers time to clean up the mess and time for some of the flood water to receed. There is a lot of damage on the Westside of Atlanta. I feel bad for those who lost everything. We are still waiting to here if FEMA and the Federal GOvernment are going to help those who need it. I guess Health Care Reform and the Presidents talk to the world is more important than those in Georgia to answer the govenors cry for help. By the time you read this blog message I hope something is done for those who need help. We are doing fine, but their are some who are really suffering especially since some homes are not given the option to buy flood insurance because they don't live near a river or something like that. NEWS FLASH Georgia can flood even if there is no direct body of water near it. Maybe this will change insurance companies policies. We shall see.

So good happy news...James is growing and becoming funny everyday...and he is also becoming two. The becoming two part can be a little stressful for all of us sometimes . Once he learns to talk I hope things are easier for him to be able to express himself.

He favorite things these days are TV which includes Backyardagains, Wonderpets, Mickey Mouse Club House, and Diego. He loves to talk to Diego, well he answers yes and no to Diego's questions. It is kind of cute. He also still loves balls and cars, Disney Cars. He sees Lighting McQueen and says "Vroom, vroom." For James Birthday next month we are having a Cars party. I am excited and preparing now so that I can be some what functioning after the baby. I am so afraid she is going to knock me out and I won't be prepared for the holidays and such. I am probably being paranoid or a freak, but I want these holidays to be memorable and fun not stressful for me or anyone around me. If I am not stressed than I can have fun with those I love. I am looking forward to the holidays more than anything. I am also looking forward to having this baby sometime in the next few weeks. I will hopefully know on Friday what the next steps are and if she is big enough to come out early. Keep us and Georgia in your prayers.

Here is a good cause and deal

2009-09-15T20:39:00.005-04:00

Here is a great way to get two things for a great deal. Scentsy is pledging money to small businesses. They have these t-shirts that cost $9 with shipping and you get a $10 gift certificate to buy something from Scentsy. I got one because the t-shirt is cool and during this economy it is small businesses that need our support. I get support a good cause, have a cool t-shirt, and get 10 bucks to get some Scentsy products. This deal is good for everyone so check it out.

https://www.scentsycontribute.org/index.html

If anyone has any ideas which local business needs to spot lighted please let me hear your ideas. I have two in mind, but I want to hear what you have to say.

Being prepared

2009-09-14T16:19:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I received a huge testimony on food storage. So it is Sunday afternoon and the water goes out in our neighborhood and another one next door. A main pipe line burst and it was going to take several hours to fix. So we had no water for anything. Yikes...not because we had bottled waters. This was really good because we were having company over and we could still provide refreshments for them. Then we had another problem how were we going to use the bathroom? No one could flush the toilets and Adam's mom told us all we had to go at the church when we went for Visiting Teaching interviews and a fireside. Than my mother-in-law became truly inspired. She had these bottles of soda that were filled with water in her basement. She told us each to take two to our bathrooms and when we needed to flush or wash our hands we could use that water. So we had water to drink, bottled, and go to the restroom. I wondered how many people had nothing and were in a bit of a crisis due to this event happening on a Sunday afternoon. We were taken cared of because she had been prepared. My mother-in-law is one of my role models. She always amazes me. I would have never thought of refilling the toilet tank so that I could keep flushing the toilet when needed. I think she is so smart. Let this be a lesson that emergencies can happen at anytime, anywhere, and any day. Be prepared for those little unexpected moments.

A really bad day and a really nice surprise

2009-09-08T17:56:00.007-04:00

I woke up this morning already for my doctors appointment. For the very first time I had written my questions and concerns down so that I could talk about it with my doctor. I only have five weeks left until the baby id due and I wanted to be prepared. I got to the doctors office and I suddenly was super sick and hurting. I was really nauseated too for some reason. They had no saltines or anything and so I sat there hoping to see the doctor any minute, but an hour later I was finally taken back to see him. Once the doctor came in my heart sank a little because it was my doctors brother. I have seen him one other time, but I am kind of like seeing my doctors. I am funny like that, but I thought I would ask him my questions anyways because there is a possibility that he will deliever my baby too. So he saw I had been crying a little and asked why and I told him about the pain I had been having. He was oh ok and proceeded to listen to the babies heart beat. We listened for about 15 seconds and he was like ok you are 34 weeks along, you had a ten lb baby before, ok we'll see you in two weeks. I was like, "Don't you mean next week." I am 35 weeks. Then as I was trying to talk to him he is heading out the door. He didn't even ask if I had any questions or anything. I had to quickly ask him everything I wanted to ask and he blew off my questions. All I wanted was 10-15 to talk about my concerns hey I had already waited an hour for him. Let's just say that people need to remember who is working for who. I say that because pregnant women are sensitive people and have every right to be concerned with what is happening to their bodies. I won't go into detail about my body on my blog, but if you want to ask me you can. I am really concerned with harming myself or the baby if she is big again. I went to my doctors office because there were two doctors in the office. It would limit the amount of strangers or surprises when it came to my delivery. I thought that by having two doctors they would be able to know me and my case. I may have been asking too much. I just didn't want to have my same experience that I had with my first baby. Anyways I am looking into switching my doctor. It is really late in the game, but I am not sure what to do. I have two doctors in mind right now. I need to first go down to my doctor and talk with them and get some paper work. I do not like making people feel bad so I am a little nervous, but at the same time they need to know that I am serious about protecting myself and my concerns are real not some pregnant imagination or something. Ok now that I got all that drama out I can share the amazing beautiful part. I called my mom after my incident crying. OK I was not just crying I was sobbing, yes I am very pregnant. I think she may have thought someone died or something. Any way my beautiful mother knowing I needed a hug sent me the most beautiful surprise. I got a bouquet of my favorite flowers, carnations. They are pink which made me think of my future baby girl. I just need to get this baby girl here healthy. I just wanted to say I have an awesome mom and family. I love them so much and I can't wait to see them in a few months. I really felt their love for me when I saw the flowers were from them. I know they are across the country, but the flowers made me feel like they had jsut come by to visit me. Thank you! I really needed that more then anything.

Aren't these beautiful!

Now I really do feel better. This blog is like therapy no wonder the church advices us to keep a journal. Once all emotions are out somewhere a load is seriously unloaded. Yeah the flowers and the note really helped too. =0)

Check out Scentsy

2009-09-06T11:25:00.003-04:00

So yesterday I signed up to do a home business called Scentsy. I am excited because it is something that people like and it is not over priced. I don't think I could stand selling something that I would not buy myself due to the cost. I also really like the variety of scents and the quality. I also like that the candles are heated and don't burn if I or my son sticks his finger in the wax. I am looking forward to getting my kit and doing a party before my baby comes. The other thing that I has impressed me about this company is that yeah it's another home party business, but it doesn't last hours like some others and I can earn a little bit of money. I love staying at home with my son, but I have always worked my whole life. It is hard not earning money and doing something like that. It is a personal struggle. I really think this will give me the satisfaction that I am looking for. I know I am not going to be a millionaire or a hundredaire either, but I am excited for the opportunity to do something I like and still be at home where I need to be. I know that being at home with James and with the future Elizabeth will be the greatest thing I do in this life. If you are interested in finding out more about Scentsy email me or check out my website.

http://scentsy.com/snifftastic

BYU Cougars 14 -Oklahoma Sooners13

2009-09-05T23:14:00.003-04:00

BYU just beat Oklahoma. It was a way good game to watch. It is always nice to see the under dog come out on top. Go Cougars! Oh yeah BYU is 20 in the nation and Oklahoma "Sooners" were number 3. I am proud of them.

Update on our drama and other fun stuff

2009-08-24T14:43:00.002-04:00

I am pretty stressed about Adam's tuition. I know things will work out, but I sure wish they would work faster. I hate feeling like I failed. We tried so hard to get out of debt and save up our money just to be put back into the situation that we were in when we were in school before. We are once again in the red. I was just hoping to start grad school with more money then when we did for our undergrad. We would have been okay, but we had to pay out of state tuition. We are only two months shy of living here for a year. It is just so frustrating. I am the one who deals with the money and I keep thinking where could we have cut back, but really we did great up until this point. We saved and got out of debt with in like eight months. I was very proud and excited for us. I thank Adam's parents for letting us live with them. It really helped us get out of debt for the whole week that we were. Sigh...I am just upset about this whole thing. It will work out. We are still waiting to hear back from FAFSA to see if we can get a loan. I know loans are good for school, but I expected to get one later on when we really needed it. Sigh...Well at least Adam loves his classes and enjoys reading his textbooks. I think he will get really good grades this semester and maybe qualify for one of the apprenticeships his department offers. They give you free tuition if you get one of them. I am go for it Adam. I want him to do his best and learn as much as he can. It will be easier for him once he can really focus on his classes and is not commuting from Norcross to Athens. It is like a two hour trip due to traffic. We will get there. Otherwise things are great. I have seven weeks before the baby is due. James is so much fun and full..I mean full of energy. I love him. He keeps me on my toes and makes me laugh all the time. He now loves Hannah Montana (thanks to his Aunts and Grandmom) and balloons. Oh I can't forget his greatest passion BALLS! He can't get enough Balls. I think he could open up a store with all the balls he owns. His favorite Sunday afternoon thing to do is throw the ball with his Grandpop and Greg. He thinks that is awesome.