slow....

I'm sitting at work wishing the day would go faster--looking at the clock thinking it has to be an hour later yet only 20 minutes have passed. Christmas day was a great day! We woke up and the kids got their stockings and the home-made sock monkeys from me. There was no having breakfast. The only thing on Jace's mind was presents. Thanks to his wonderful grandmas and grandpas the boys got more presents than we planned. that was a nice treat for them. I don't have my camera, but I'll post later.



It's crazy how Christmas expectations change as you get older. It used to be all about what I got. I didn't mind at all that I didn't open one present this year. In fact, I can remember Christmases being disappointed because I didn't get that much. My parents always gave us great gifts but nothing extravagant. Looking back, I'm grateful that there wasn't soo much focus on presents. One of my absolute favorite holiday traditions in my family is our home-made gift exchange. We only do it every other year. (this year was Heath's family xmas) We started it, I believe nearly 10 years ago, I think. We all draw names in December and this is the most anticipated gift of the whole day....mostly because you know that that person put their heart and soul into figuring out a creative home-made gift they would enjoy. Let's see, a few that I've made: Birdie Sling Purse, Framed Photo Collage, Embroidered Pillow, Family Web site, i can't think of others. Some that I've received: Quilt, Xmas Wall hanging, Pillow Blanket, Bean Bag, Stationary, Nursing Cover, Baby Blanket, Family Calendar. These gifts mean so much more to me and they are lasting.


This year it was all about the BOYS! I enojoy Christmas so much more with kids. It's so fun to watch their reactions to each gift and see how much they appreciate it. Even though this was a meager Christmas, the kids had no idea and were just happy for what they got. Camden kept saying, "Wow" and Jace would jump up and down yelling "Woo Hoo" Jace played with his police cars, dump truck and street sweeper and helicopter all day and Camden got a bunch of fun interactive gifts. The best part of the day though was just being all together. Heath's family came over and we had a mexican fiesta Christmas. The food was delicious!!!!!! I love seeing the cousins play. At one point in the day, however, I sat down on the couch and looked around at 5 different people playing on their new electronic toy. It was weird...no one was talking...just playing on their I touch or I phone or MP3 or Ipod. Understandable but a tad bit sad.


Later that day, we went and saw Sherlock Holmes, which I really enjoyed. The movie wasn't non-stop action but it was entertaining and I like the mystery focused stories. Plus, the acting was great. It's hard to believe Christmas day is over but I'm grateful that I was able to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas this year. I am thankful that we could be together as family. I was hoping to do Christmas caroling or the nativity this year but it just got hectic at the house. It will be easier to start traditions when we're at our own home. :) We did squeeze in reading Luke Christmas Eve.

Arizona

Well, my Christmas letter is coming. My computer is being weird so that will come with all the news of the year. We are in Arizona now and have been for nearly 2 weeks! I got offered a part-time temp. position at an Aviation company and so we packed our bags and headed out of Denver until next year. The drive was mostly uneventful. hooray! We stayed with Heath's family friends (i know you're reading this :)) in Alburqurque so the drive wasn't bad. THANK YOU KRISTEN!!!!! The boys were checked out by the time we got there. They have such a cute family and the girls just adored our little Camden. He liked them too...it was a toss up between them and their dog. hee hee :)

So, now that we are here, I've been working almost every day. The first week was training and now is my DAY 1 on my own. Going great and I enjoy the job. However, I MISS those boys! This has been really good for me though...reminds me how much I love being a mommy and also how grateful I am that Heath will be the working one. (eventually) He tried to find a job too but I got an offer so we took it. Heath is being Mr. Mom and last night I asked him how he was holding up and he said, 'he's ready for me to be done last week.' :) Last Friday, I came home exhausted and the second I held Camden I started to cry. I hate that I'm missing just small moments and the second I get home, he won't let me go. It's really sweet but it also breaks my heart a little. I'm not devastated because I know it's only for a short time. On the whole other hand, it's really nice doing something I am good at again and being appreciated. My boss and associates seem thrilled with my work and have told me I can come back and work for them anytime. It's also a good reminder that I have some brains and that 2 kids haven't completely drained all my mindpower. :) I get off early tomorrow so I can prepare for Santa. We're going to make sugar cookies and sing Christmas songs all day! Can't believe it's Christmas but i love this time of year. Will blog again shortly.

Merry Christmas!!!

my nose is cold my toes are froze....

There's something wrong with this picture...everytime I've written, it's COLD. I think I forgot I lived in Colorado. oops. :) Last night, it got down to negative 36 with windchill and this morning it was negative 15 with no wind. I'm cold there's nothing else to it. I figure I better write about some things bc I'll have little or no time in the next few days to update with pics. So what's been going on in our lives????

First thing, we went to California for Thanksgiving and had a great time with my family. We did the Thousand Oaks Turkey Day Dash, ate homemade rolls, delicious turkey, stuffing, etc...the works. We sewed like no other! I finished a Christmas banner and an apron for my best friend's birthday. (Lane, I need a pic of you looking so domestically chic in it!) Got pedis and mostly just hung out, caught up on some Arrested Development episodes, went to Ventura Pier for tandem bikes and such, ate The Habit, That pretty much sums up a great Thanksgiving with family. pics to come for these.

Well, while we were there, Heath and I celebrated our 7th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY! Can you believe it? I feel old. My parents watched the kids and we had a much needed night out. It was just dinner but it was really nice to have dinner, talk and enjoy the Christmas scenery....ice skating rink and lighted trees. We were going to walk around but it got pretty chilly. I love these dates. We have such a great time together and I can just be myself with him and he loves me for it. The food was good but the company was better :) I love you Heath and I think I keep falling....

Got back from a great trip and it's been cold cold cold. Even too cold to enjoy the snow or sledding. We did go to a city winter wonderland celebration and it was super fun and FREE. Jace loved it and had fun with all the games. It was too cold to stay longer than an hour but it was a great family outing.

Let's see, we'll be in Arizona for three weeks because I sort of got a job! We've been looking for seasonal work to earn money during this break. I got a call back and they pretty much have given me the position they just want to meet me first. The hours aren't bad and I think a little break from full time mommyhood might be okay. I'll be the front desk receptionist at a private airport for a couple weeks. Maybe meet some celebrities taking their jet out for the weekend. :) Will def. enjoy seeing Heath's family and all the cousins.

I need to do so many things..clean the house, pack, clean out the fridge, go to the store, organize papers, bills, coupons, find a portable dvd player, finish my sock monkeys for kiddos, finish a tote bag, write Christmas letters, design a digital christmas card (no money this year) I don't think I'm going to get all done before we leave tomorrow so I'll just start with the most important...cleaninng. How come this always comes first. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to not care that the house is not in pristine order and the meals aren't planned. I can't live like that, i'd go even more crazy. :)

Oh, and did I mention Camden has croup and strep. So much fun! But really it hasn't been bad just a fever, irritability, stuffy runny nose and being hoarse. poor baby. He's been sleeping fine so that's what's important. :)

Hopefully, my next post will be a CHRISTMAS CARD TO ALL OF YOU! Warmest wishes for the holidays and travel safely.

Sunday

Today is snowy and cold but it seems appropriate because it's finally December. It's amazing how snow can really make it feel like Christmas. growing up in California, I am accustomed to sunny Christmases but this seems to bring an added feeling to this time of year. I set up 0ur Christmas decorations and manger scene. Yet, it only lasted a day until Jace got a hold of it and I had to pack the whole thing away. Look forward to the day when I can have a place to put it where the kids won't touch it. I find it ironic that Thanksgiving comes before Christmas this year. It's so easy to think of the many things we don't have this year but I've been prepped with Thanksgiving and am grateful for the many things we do have. This year, we're focusing on the things that really matter. I guess these are my favorite christmases because you don't get lost in the commercialism and presents.

First Birthday

Jace helped me make a Happy Birthday sign for Camden and he was so excited to hang it up for him!











Carrying on the tradition of balloons! It just makes the day more fun! Camden loved them and kept walking after them yelling, "ball"
so happy!

The day after his actual Birthday, we tried again with the birthday cake. He ate a little, but Jace and I ate more. :)

Jace and Daddy bought Cam his first football! He goes crazy when he sees Heath's ball so we got him his own. He already can catch it by himself and throw it (he's a lefty so far)

'Happy Birthday to You' didn't go over so well. :) He looks so frightened poor baby. The attention was a little much for him. He didn't even touch the football cake. I was yet again disappointed. Jace didn't touch his first cake either.

I made two football cakes for his Birthday in hopes that he would grab it thinking it was real. (Heath's idea) The cake may I add was delicious. Yumm....cookies and cream cake with chocolate frosting. mmmm...

Camden enjoying his birthday dinner. I made his favorite-sweet and sour meatballs. :)

There's our little guy all grown up. goes by way too fast.

It's coming

I have a lot of catch up to do so stay posted. Just thought I'd write for now. Today it's freezing outside. We got back from California on Monday and it's been really cold since. To be exact, today's high is 17 and low is 4. Subsequently, I let Heath drive the car to school so he didn't freeze on the way home from the light rail. Oh, and he has to walk now because someone stole his bike seat..yes, just the seat. weird. The boys have been sick the last couple days but we're hanging in there. It just now hit me how tired I am staying up with Camden for two hours last night. Well, I held him for two hours and thankfully he wasn't screaming. He felt quite content in mommy's arms. Besides being up so late, it was kinda nice to cuddle with him. He gives the best hugs though! He runs towards me and tucks his arms to his sides and puts his head on my shoulders. it melts my heart. I'll try to tape it sometime because it's hard to explain. So, that's it for now. just felt like writing.

I am grateful for....

Our sweet little boy Camden who turned ONE years old today!!! I can't believe how fast time goes. It feels like just yesterday I held this sweet tiny little baby and welcomed him into this world...so small that I felt like he was going to break in my arms. He came out screaming and hasn't stopped since! He has a fiesty little personality. He throws everything he can get his hands on, is discovering all sorts of new drawers and cubbords, loves to play the "uh oh" game of throwing things down to watch mommy pick them up. Really is a happy little guy who just can't get enough of mommy daddy and especially Jace's love and attention. We LOVE you our sweet Camden and our so happy you are in our family! I love coming to your crib when you wake up and seeing your face light up when you see me. You snuggle me for a few minutes and then are ready and rearing to go and explore! I love you and love being your mommy!!

Born: November 11th

FUll NaME: Camden Heath Reed
CuRRent NicKnaMes: Cam Cam
FeaTure moSt LiKE MomS: Blue Eyes
FeatURe Most LiKe DaDs: love for sports, anything that looks like a ball

BuRps... less than Dad
Squeals....more than DAd
CriEs.... more than Mom
SMiLeS When... Jace blows on his tummy
FaVoriTe Toy.... football, baseball, basketball, play computer
FavoRitE SoNg....I am a Child of God
FaVoRitE BooK.... The Doggy Book
FavoRite Words.... Bye, Uh Oh, Yes, That? This?, Ball
FaVoRiTe FoOds ... meatballs, cheerios, chicken, carrots and bannanas
FaVoriTe NoiSe.... vroom vroom with his cars and trucks (it's adorable)

Believes Hand Puppets are really alive...
Full time walking since... Halloween
Bumps head into furniture, corners, cubbords... everyday

After one year, If we had to guess, baby's profession, it would be... night watchman because he LOVES being up at all hours of the night. :)

Today I am grateful for...

unexpected blessings.

Happy Halloween

We had a fantabulous Halloween this year! Due to 20 inches of snow, they cancelled our Trunk or Treat on Wednesday so we have less candy laying around the house, which is a VERY good thing bc I'm the one who ends up eating it all. Our second planned activity was a Spook Alley at Keller Williams Realty. I couldn't believe all the work that went into it! It was short but scary and we got to tread through some snow to get there. And finally, the day of Halloween...we went to a great dinner at our friend's house and then went trick or treating with all the kids! The weather was significantly warmer but there was still a nip in the air. Jace, as always, LOVED it! I took Camden up to one door just so he could get the feel of it. That family adored him and his little chicken suit! It was a great couple days and Jace still asks me if we are going to have halloween today. I have a pretty darn handsome little fireman here and the cutest little chicken you ever did see. Oh and during trick or treating, a lot of people had fireplace burning bc of the cold weather. Jace says, "Mom, I smell smoke." Wow, he's really in character, and man he has some keen senses. :) I love these boys! (Ryan, sorry about the fireman thing again...I just can't kick Jace's passion for it. You should be happy to know though that he talks about his uncle, the policeman all the time :) The Holidays are upon us and I just can't believe it's November and nearly Christmas. We are sure looking forward to Thanksgiving in California and Christmas in Arizona.

Grateful Day #1

I am grateful for the most beautiful weather we are enjoying today-74 degrees ~ I love the weather in Colorado! You can have a snow blizzard and the next week 70 degree weather. It sure is fickle but I never complain about more sunshine!!!!

Mommy, wow, I'm a big boy now!

Camden started walking full time last week. Now, it's just about all he does. He is fast and can certainly get into things now. It's crazy how fast they learn. I am still amazed at the miracle of this little life.

I have thoughts

As you can tell, we've had a lot going on and I have more to update but for now I just wanted to blog about some things I've been thinking about. A couple days ago, I watched the movie, Marley and Me. Have any of you seen it? It was really good. It really paralled real life, atleast mine, at times....first comes love, then comes marriage, then comes...babies....and all that goes with it...stress, laughter, sleepless nights, tears, frustration, true joy, sacrifice, hard work, love, surprises, jobs, choices, etc.. STOP HERE IF YOU DON'T WANT IT SPOILED. In the movie, Owen Wilson struggles with the job that he's given as a columnist. He feels like its a less prestigious position, but what's ironic is that he's really good at his job but he can't get past the idea of himself as a reporter. It's like the grass is always greener. He finally gets the job he's been dreaming about, moves his whole family to another state only to realize he doesn't like being a reporter and would prefer the freedom of writing a column.



Now, on the other hand, Jennifer Aniston struggles with the transition of working to the realites of being a full-time mom. At one point, she talks about how this was her CHOICE. I've thought about that a lot through the years. Someday, I'm going to tell my kids, "I could've done a lot of things with my life, but I chose to be your mother." We make a CHOICE everyday.



I like the movies that make you think and evaluate your life. It's not like it made me want to really change anything, it just made me want to embrace life that much more and perhaps appreciate what I have instead of what I don't. Which leads me to my next topic: GRATITUDE.



Stay tuned: I'll be posting daily about what I am grateful for this month in lieu of Thanksgiving.

Mimi and Boompa Visit Colorado

Pumpkin Patch

Took the kiddos to the pumpkin patch this year. I could only get one picture of Camden in the pumpkins without him falling through them. We went with our good friends, the Burgers. Jace's best friends really. He never stops talking about Brooklyn and Taylor. Later that week, I had the kids over to do a fun craft. It was the easiest thing ever. White cups, glue, googley eyes, pipe cleaners, stickers and markers. They had a ball making their treat cups. I really love halloween and all the fun around fall. Yet, fall mostly skipped us this year. We only had a couple days with amazing colors because we had such an early frost.

Snow!!!!

Sewing

Many of you may not know, but I LOVE to sew. When I was younger, I had sewed some awful dresses for personal progress, a jean quilt that I still love, some teddy bears and a baby blanket. A couple years ago, a bunch of us gals from my ward got together and started playing around with our sewing machines! And thus started the Secret Stitch Club. I, at first, went to just chat it up with my friends, but I started my first apron and really enjoyed it. Whether it was because I was sewing with friends that shared my passion or that I was actually creating something I enjoyed, whatever the reason, I realized that taking time for a few simple stitches made me happy!

So, one of my best friends has requested to see some of my sewing projects. Lane, this is for you! I'm still a beginner but I love starting a new project and seeing it to the finish! I would LOVE to start quilting but I can't until we have more money..aka a stable job...bc I know once i start making blankets, you won't be able to stop me. My next projects include... the most adorable reversible apron, sock monkeys, another birdie sling.

dear sewing, thank you for finding me. I look forward to many happy years together. :)


)

Video Updates

I took this video a couple weeks ago of Camden starting to walk. Already he is taking more steps and I need to catch that soon too! He also likes to boogie when he hears music. Enjoy!

I heart Mesa

Hey! Most of you know we have a lot of ties to Mesa still! in fact, I don't know anyone that has more passion and interest in this city then Heath! Well, check out this web site for this photo giveaway! http://iheartmesa.blogspot.com/

Only One of You

It's amazing how reading can change your perspective so much. Today, as I was sitting in the doctor's office with Jace for his egg challenge, I was reading a book called, 'the mother in me.' My mom gave me this book a while ago, and it's a compilation of short stories from mothers and their experiences, inspirations and reflections about motherhood. Today, I read about a mom who well was just so tired of the mundane and somehow lost who she was amongst her many duties and demands. I've thought about this a lot because, I too have found myself, at time, slipping into this mentality, and that's when I realize I need to do something that I enjoy to feel like me again! At 35, (which hello is not even old...well maybe not to me anymore bc it seems to be inching closer) she decides to take a ballet class. During so, she reads this quote:

" There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it."

I read it about 3 times to let it sink in. What an amazing and empowering quote! We all have something to offer; service to render or creativity to indulge. Whatever circumstance, situation, condition, stage of life, each of us can embrace our life and become whatever we want to be. One of the constant threads through this story was that by this time in her life, she felt like she'd been torn apart with hardly identifieable pieces of herself. We should never feel selfish doing something for ourselves. I have found I am a better mom, wife, friend..even person, when I have done something I enjoy. It makes so much sense because obviously you are a happier person, if you are happy with yourself.

So, there's my rant and rave for the day. Can't wait to embrace and live life tomorrow! Hey, today, all i did was turned up the music really loud while I cleaned the house and it was just for me!!!!

Vote for Camden!!!!

GAP Baby Casting Call

Please vote for Camden

Baby Boy ID: 886048303

Just visit http://www.gap.com/castingcall/ and enter the Contestant ID!!!

Could this face be any cuter! I just adore him and really think he'd be quite a stunning little Gap baby! If you have a second, vote for him. You can vote everyday until contest ends. Thank you so much!!!


P.S. No, I won't be mad if you go now and enter your own little kiddos! That's understandable. :)

Fight in Pink

Last Sunday, the family and I did the Race for the Cure! (walked the 5K) This last year, I've become friends with this girl, Becky in our ward. Her mother in law, Juli (also in our ward), has been diagnosed with breast cancer 3 x in the last 10 years. This year, the young women wanted to be involved and the bishop said it was the gospel in action..serving others. In total, they ended up having over 150 people on Team Juli! It was absolutely incredible to see the support and love from so many for one person. I've been thinking about this for a while...about why it's a race and why we walk to show our support. I think, in a way, it's symbolic of their fight bc these women find a way to put one foot in front of the other every day--they keep getting up and facing the journey ahead of them and just like this race, they are not alone. It was overwhelming to see the many names and faces pinned to people's backs in memory of this person and their fight. some win and some ...lose. Juli, has just found out that it's spread to her brain now. Yet, the moto on our shirts said, Doubt Not, Fear Not, Only Believing! And I think against all odds, she can beat it! We don't understand the kind of trials we are asked to go through sometimes, but Juli is a great example that we can have faith, courage and joy through it. The event had 53,000 people in attendance and oh, go to this link to see the symbol formed from our walk from the sky.

http://www.9news.com/genthumb/genthumb.ashx?e=3&h=204&w=320&i=/assetpool/images/091004011825_race-for-the-cure.jpg

Old Mcdonald had a ....

One of our last weeks in Thousand Oaks, we took Jace to this big farm where you can pick your own vegetables, fruit, and flowers. We picked strawberries and rasberries and they were amazing! They had pony rides, petting zoo, adventure zone, train rides, tractor bumper cars, mining for gold and a lot more. We fed the goats that walked across beams above our heads. Jace got to ride Tinkerbell, the pony. No other kids were riding the train, so they let him DRIVE the train. Picking strawberries was a very messy job! There were bees everywhere and squished strawberries up to your ankles. But they were worth it!! Here are some more pictures from that awesome day. We had a blast! Now we are searching for something like it here in Colorado.

JOY

Day 25 on 28

I know. I know. I've skipped a couple days. This experience has taught me a couple things. First, I really have gotten in a better habit of writing and have really enjoyed that. Second, there are a lot of things I can do with my time that give me "my time" besides blogging....which I seem to enjoy like sewing, exercising, reading, digital scrapbooking, baking. Third, people don't blog as much as I thought they did. Fourth, the best things about my life are my husband and two kids. Fifth and last, I like blogging a lot more when I don't have the pressure to think of something to write about. So, in light of this, I've decided to just make a goal to do something for myself everyday, it could be blogging but it doesn't have to be.

Enjoy the next posts so that will be solely dedicated to my boys who make me smile everyday.

Day 24 - Memories

I never did this when everyone did last year, but I've always wanted to. If you read this, even if we haven't talked or seen eachother in forever, can you leave a comment of a memory you and I had together! Thanks! I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with.

Day 23 - One More Day

This morning, I woke up pretty discouraged that I had to face the day with no husband around again. In fact, most mornings are hard because I know I won't see Heath until 11 that night. But, my boys turned my day around. I can't whine or pout about my life when my kids around, so I couldn't help smiling and laughing and playing with them, which domino into a good mood. Sure, we had our moments of frustration and wrestle fits with a couple bumps and bruises, but it was a good day. It poured rain all day. Hmm.. random thought, for those of you statisticians out there I guarantee you can run a test that finds a statistical significance between rainy days and me being in a good mood. Of course, Heath helped too because he is so loving and understanding and he knowing me so well knew that I wanted to be mad, but texted me to help me let go of my childish attitude. At the end of the day, I realized that I find pride in what I do at home, even if it is the laundry, dishes, dirty diapers etc. How this translates into motivation to clean the whole kitchen before Heath got home, I'm not sure. But, I knew that the only way to show that I was okay and supportive was to get the house in order.

Day 22 - Yipee

Yeah! Today we found out that the school accepted our appeal and we got in-state tuition! What a huge blessing! Our prayers were answered.

Day 21

Thanks Angie for inspiring this post....

Things I love:

hearing Heath come home from a long day at school
reading books to Jace
Camden's adorable laugh
seeing a good friend's phone number on my caller id
getting a package in the mail
following the spirit and knowing I did what was right
being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
fall TV Shows - Office, American Idol, SYTYCD, Psych...
laying in bed talking with Heath for hours
the smell of rain in the dessert
learning and singing the notes of a new song
rainy days period.
music. music. music.
saturday morning pancakes
watching Heath and Jace play baseball, football, wrestle, swords. He's the best daddy!!!
sewing something new and loving my creation!!
reading the first page of a great mystery novel (not the last--that means its over)
dancing when no one is watching
dawn at Carpenteria beach
hearing stories about my grandparents' childhood
watching my favorite chick flicks
editing a paper or resume (I know, I'm crazy)
seeing my babies learn and grow every day

i could keep going on....

Day 20

Today's high was 78 degrees. Cann you guess what tomorrow's high will be? ..................... Did you say 48 degrees! Yikes. I guess they aren't kidding when they say today was the last day of summer. I was thinking today of how amazing it is to travel a couple hours and be in a completely different climate. Isn't that great, though? Snowing in Colorado and can fly to Arizona to enjoy the sun. I'm not so sure I'm ready for cold weather again. That's something weird about Colorado is you never know what clothes to leave out. In Arizona, I can pack away anything that remotely reflects warm clothing. Here, you can be wearing a short sleeved tshirt and capris one day and a snow coat and boots the next. I need to expand my wardrobe...oh wait, I have no money to do that. Guess it'll have to wait. I am excited to see what this fall and winter has in store for us this year. I am definitely looking forward to the amazing colorful seasons of fall.

Day 19- Perspective

Understandably, all of us have our individual struggles and personal trials to overcome in this lifetime. And, not to undermine any of your trials, but I've had a fresh dose of perspective these last couple weeks that makes my trials look like nothing. When Heath and I were first married we were in a great ward with so many amazing young couples. We had a blast! Among these couples, were our friends, the Dixons. A couple years ago we reconnected through the blogging world and when Heath went to Portland to check out the grad school, they graciously let him stay with them. Since then, Alissa and I have stayed in touch through our blogs. A couple weeks ago, I found out that she was having some serious complications with her fourth pregnancy. Her unborn baby, Maddox, has something called hydrops. You can read the story here. . Their journey of heartache and faith has touched me and has really reminded me of what it means to have an eternal perspective. But, I guess the reason I'm writing this is because I know they need as many prayers as they can get. If you can, read their story and say a prayer for their family. It's amazing how much the Lord's hands have played a part in their lives. Come to think of it, I can see the Lord's hands in all our lives.

Day 18

Sorry about not writing yesterday. I've had a couple of really hard nights and long days. Being up all night doesn't make facing the morning very fun. The boys have been sick and only having one bedroom for them has been interesting, to say the least. I would get one to sleep just to have the other wake up. I've been up for 2-3 hours every night. I finally moved Jace out to the couch so Camden wouldn't wake him up. Last night was much better bc Camden only woke up at 3 and Jace slept soundly in his own bed. It's the pitts having sick kids. I feel so helpless like I can't do anything to help them. Hopefully, they will be feeling better today. Jace's medicine makes him more wild than he already is so I'm sure you can imagine how exhausted I am. After I put them to bed, I go to bed. I didn't have my sewing group this week so I'll probably end up sewing tonight. Hope so!!! Heath is of course studying again this Saturday, so it might be another long day but I've got some ideas to make playing inside fun. I'll write again later tonight.

Day 17

Woke up wishing the day to be over before it began.

Day 16 - Today's List

Isn't it crazy how fast time goes. It seems like you make one decision just to turn around and be ready to make another big decision. We just finished our summer in California, and yet we are faced with what to do next summer already. Life is in fastforward and sometimes I feel like I can't get a handle on it. Do you ever wish you just had one full day to catch up? And even then, I'm sure it would take more than a day to get ahead of the curve. I guess this is why I have to look at my days in baby steps. I have to do it that way or I would be frustrated all day that I didn't get everything done. I like my today lists instead of my to do lists...bc that goes on forever.
_____________________________________
Thoughts:

Surprisingly, Heath and I don't have one of these. (someday when we have money)

I would love this

Unfortunately, our car needs this.

Day 15

Whenever I make my bed in the morning, I end up having a much better day. One thing in my life that can be in order.

Day 14 - As a Mother

Today, I was listening to Dr. Laura on my way back from picking up Jace from preschool. It was funny bc she told a lady that no 3 yr. old should ever be in preschool. I thought about that bc well, Jace was in preschool when he was 3. We did have some extenuating circumstances and I don't think I'll put Camden in that early, but in this case, it was okay. Dr. Laura said "there's nothing your 3 yr. old can learn in preschool that he can't learn from you, his mother." I've always been a strong believer in starting at home. I take every opportunity to teach Jace when I can. Yet, Jace has flourished in preschool. He soaks it all in and does well in a controlled setting. In fact, he has a personality that craves structure. Sure, kids still turn out wonderful without preschool. In Jace's case, I am glad that he's been in preschool. Also, because of his drive to learn and be actively engaged, he's had so many great experiences that I can't always give him. This summer was really good for us because I tried to do an activity with Jace every day. It helped me get in a good habit of getting out of the house and fueling his energy or should I say, using up some of his energy. That's one thing I love about being a mom. I love thinking of fun free things to do and being creative doing so. I have to send a shout out though to all those AMAZING moms out there! I was reminded on Sunday that I am the only one that can be my boys' mother. It's my place, my job and my responsibility. When I think of it that way, I have an increased desire to do my part and do my best to raise and love these boys the best I can.

Day 13

It's not that I don't like blogging, it's just lately I've seen it as something else to do on my checklist. I don't want it to be like that and perhaps it's because I have to think of something to write about each time. Instead of a topic today, I'm just going to write. Today was a good day at church. I thought choir practice started today so Heath dropped me off early and drove home. Well, no practice. I sat in the chapel for an hour just sitting, thinking, reading the hymn book (didn't have my scriptures.) To be honest, it was quite nice to just have some peace and quiet. And yet, in the back of my head, I was hoping everything was going okay at home and feeling guilty I wasn't there to help Heath out with the boys. Jace has been exceptionally active as of late. I just can't figure this kid out. I want to embrace his energy for life and who he is, but somedays, it takes all my strength and patience to not burst. He's getting more aggressive toward Camden, and I don't think he's trying to be mean, he just doesn't know when to stop.... that's with everything though. We've racked our brains with good consequences, but nothing seems to work. Any ideas????? He won't sit in time out, he doesn't care if we take toys away and even if he cares for the moment, he does the exact same thing that got him in trouble a second later, which means he's not learning. Just venting. There's got to be a better way to teach him. We even tried a strike system. I think I'm going to try a reward system next...maybe then he'll get it. Good night whoever out there reading.

Day 12

I've always wanted to travel but never really had the means to do so. When I was at Ricks, I went on a bus with a school group to see some church history sites. I loved it! I've been to Texas when I was little. Went to New Orleans on a business trip. I've been to California, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Utah, Idaho, Colorado. A couple years ago, I went to Hawaii and that was an amazing experience, which I never even imagined I'd have until later in life. Thank you to my boss for that!!! All things considered, I guess I'm a west coaster. Yet, I REALLY want to go see some more of the world. I've decided to talk about the top 3 places I want to go.

First and foremost, I've always wanted to go Italy. Growing up, I wanted to serve a mission for my church and I always imagined I would go to Italy. I don't know if it's the amazing architecture, unique design of the small cities, yummy food, or the beautiful scenery, but I wanted to go there. The mission didn't work out obviously...my mission was to find my sweet hubby and start a family. Someday..

Second, New York. I heart New York. I've never even been there but I know I would LOVE it. This city seems to be brimming with life, passion, and excitement. I'd like to take a cab, try a NY pizza pie, steak sub, serendipity, etc....food food. I LOVE food, see ground zero, the giant Christmas tree, ice skate in Central park, and every other tourist thing you can think of. This will have to be later in life so I actually have money to enjoy it!

Third, Kauai, HI. Yes, I've been to Hawaii but we went to the Big Island. Kauai looks so exotic and adventurous with hidden springs, lush cliffs, and private white sandy beaches. Ahh...the relaxation. The Big Island was gorgeous but lots and lots of lava....not so much beach space.

Day 11 - Ode to Camden

Camden is 10 months today!!! I can't believe how fast he is growing. I just ADORE him!! For 10 months, 10 things about Camden.

1) He already has 5 teeth and i love his smile. He lights up any bad day.

2) He is tough. He can take Jace jumping on him, squishing him, and wrestling him all day.

3) He loves his brother more than anyone!!! He can be completely upset and Jace will walk in the room and he'll immediately stop and start smiling.

4) He can say mama, dada and uh oh.

5) He LOVES being outside. If Jace and Daddy go play basketball, he'll climb over me to look out the window and watch them or crawl to the door, stand up and yell. And yes, I always take him out there.

6) He is a screamer!! I need to teach him sign language so he can communicate bc I can't take his screaming. wow. he has some lungs

7) He loves playing catch with me and can throw any ball. He loves taking baths, playing little piggies, being tackled by Jace, cars, animals and people!!! He'll smile and woo any old lady in the grocery store.

8) He is still a little guy. Weighing 16 lbs. but this kid LOVES to eat. Anything and everything that's on my plate, of course.

9) Knee n' foot: His crawling method. He won't crawl with both knees. it cracks me up.

10) He took his first step yesterday! Heath and I were both there for it. He was standing up holding Cam's fingers and let go. He stood for a second and then took a step.