We have been busy worker bees building our house. It is a mutual help program that requires us to work at least 35 hours a week. There are 9 families and we all work on all the houses. It has been a long ride that is winding down (not fast enough though!). We are ready to be done, move in, and get on with our new life. It has been fascinating learning about all that goes into a house. I have helped (along with 3 others) to insulate 7 houses thus far with 2 left to go. The four of us consider ourselves pros at this point. We have turned a noun into a verb. Ever heard of mastic? We have been known to masticate, we have masticated, and we are masticatinators. We have laughed (to keep from crying), we have cried, we have bled, we have cussed in frustration. Kevin has found a new joy of working with wood. He built our porch and installed all of our trim.

I have begun a new journey of whole food/raw diet. A few months ago I ran across http://www.greensmoothiegirl.com/. I began with drinking a quart of green smoothie a day. Being curious about science and the why, I picked up Green for Life.  I then went on to read another of Victoria’s books.  This sent me on another tangent, eating raw.  I went on to research eating raw.  About a month or so, I purchased a nice blender (the best before the big dog blenders).  I started getting into it and started convincing my hubby (who thinks it isn’t dinner unless something has been killed). THEN my hubby killed it!  It was only about a month old!  Welp, I did some research and decided to invest in a Vitamix (for our needs, the Vitamix fit us better than the Blendtec).  Now, we have just gone to Costco and filled our carts with fruits and veggies.  I am back on this path of whole food.

Tags: green • health • new house

making a book of all my status updates for 2009….I think a new tradition as long as facebook remains

finally cracked open the John and Caprial cookbook we got 2 years ago for Christmas. a fun time cooking as a family and teaching the kids some mad skills

first day back at school, it’s raining and hubby took them to the bus stop. I think it’s gonna be a good year. now if I can only get over this dream that I adopted Ada from Kayla and she came back to claim her. Judge ordered had to hand her over right away. My heart goes out to mamas who have to be in that situation for real! Now, to analyzing……..

enjoying the last day of our Christmas tree then happy to clean up and get my living space back

took down the tree..aahhhh less clutter feels so good! Vahn “u r ruining Christmas!! Santa said….”

Off to watch funny Wednesday t.v. The only shows I can watch over and over and over and laugh my arse off every time and never get bored.

I need my diet Dr. Pepper and some chocolate stat

Had such an amazing time last night hanging with some old and new friends! The most fun with adults I’ve had in a long time, and I am down another pound toward my goal, AND my pelvic model came in the mail (sorry Kayla, maybe I will move it haha), AND Kevin has been offered/is working a wee bit of OT…I am one happy woman!

My goals for the year are officially hung up next to my desk. Where are yours?

having Sushi for lunch, meeting sweet Denise for coffee tonight, and am setting up an appointment for my first paying client…welcome Monday! U certainly aren’t manic today!!

Vahn didn’t want to eat sushi, however, he is in love with Calamari……figures, that kid has weird taste buds! Seriously, what kids likes to eat straight up coffee beans?

I love my life!

Baybeee gettin her ears peirced

after Shawn’s, aka Mr. Intensity (that’s even the name he has on his name plate), spin class, I feel I can conquer the world!!

Anyone know any good books on empowering kids? Kevin and I had an amazing chat about it and I want to pass this on to my babies. Generational patterns stop here!!

Why do I have to sacrifice style for the dollas? The ugly running shoes are half the price as the purty ones! I guess that’s why they are so cheap?

Dear L5, I know I am not very kind to you. I want to play with my children and I love to run. I really want to live life. I don’t want to keep giving the chiropractor our hard earned money even though he is a nice guy! After this round, please stay in place for good!

happy dance! happy dance! happy dance! MY FIRST PAYING CLIENT!!! I only “opened” shop about a month ago too

a teething baby = no sleep, and a delay in work getting done BUT I get lots of snuggles from a very active, not too snuggly baby

I might have another client today (postpartum) and possibly tonight too!! Fingers crossed! Talk about an adrenaline rush to cure any tiredness after a loooong night.

‎”It is only when we learn the lessons life offers that we get to move through onto a greater awareness and new experiences. If we don’t stop to learn what life teaches, we will be caught in the same cycle until we do. It may manifest itself in a different way, nonetheless, the essence of the lesson will be there waiting for our discovery.” me

Kids came downstairs all dressed in black for school cuz they wanted to be secret agents and “blend in”. Chan “u r a black girl”, Cozette back to Chan “u r a black boy”, mommy laughing

So if 42% of ppl thought 66 &67 were good and 58% thought it was bad, WHERE THE HELL WERE THE 58%? Do ppl not realize this is going to cause more unemployment AND how do we know it’s going to go to schools??? I must step down off of my box now…

To add insult to injury, our wonderful *cough* governor announces today that he wants to keep our kicker. Seriously? Does he think we are on a generous role so why not ask?

I forgot to mention……this wonderful speech *cough*, sucked up tv time so no comedy Wednesday. Does he understand what that does to me? I can actually fold my laundry with a smile. The only bleepin’ night I wanna watch that thing

wishes my hubby could be more on top of things…we sure would save some money frustration!

I love to say the word “tincture”

If you & I woke up in jail together…using only FOUR words…what would you say to me? Copy and paste this in your status…I couldn’t resist:)

Baby keeps pulling herself up on things then crying cuz she can’t figure out how to get down. Why cause pain when 5 other people will come running when u cry?

off to get my monthly calendar done and figure out the weekly one. amazing how fast our February is getting CAARAZZZY! At least u won’t find bored ppl here.

February
SOOOO after almost 25 hours and a few more on Saturday, I will be certified to install car seats. I have learned an amazing amount of info and can see why most ppl (including me) have their seats or kid improperly installed. 4 hours today of installing seats and I am TIRED!

a no school Friday….the sun is bright and beautiful so they get to play outside burning leaves with the magnifying glass…I now have a 7 year old!!…today marks exactly 7 years of no real world job….life is good!

am now officially a car seat installer technician. Now getting ready for some BBQ, bday cake, and fabulous friends.

a clean house, taxes filed, and slept in…..now if only I can finish this stinkin’ communication assignment!

gonna lift some weights then enjoy this amazingly beautiful day with a run with new running shoes (ear to ear smile)

I think I may have to skip yoga and help with the birth of a baby today…fingers crossed for her!

WE’S HAVING A BABY!! Off to the wonderful world of OHSU
so they sent her home at 4-5 centimeters??

We have a 5lb 3oz beauty born last night at 11:03. Mama did some amazing pushing and baby only had a very quick trip to the NICU….I got home with 4 1/2 hours to sleep and my baby cried for and hour and a half of that…it’s a caffeine, new baby high kinda day!!!

After a looong 2 days nothing could wipe away the grin at 11:30pm
got overloaded on sugar at a girls night last night and had a lazy day today….back to the grind tomorrow.

Chan has his first therapy appointment today. They seriously think they can get him to sit and quietly play a board game or put together a puzzle. I am super excited for a more stable, happy Chandlur!

Just because I am one of a few parents at the bus stop doesn’t mean I am responsible for all the little brats who have reckless behavior! After this morning I am seriously considering driving them to school. O yea, add on one angry bitter bus driver…fun times!

Chan is officially adopted! We can get all his stuff changed to Baird! I am a little in shock…been a long time coming….

Chandlur “COZETTE! I’m a first grader, I know everything! 16..17..19..”. Cozette, ” you missed one!” Chandlur “Oh, yea, 18..19..”

Submitted my 6 page rough draft…..fingers crossed I won’t have to make too many changes and can be done with this assignment!

I have been hearing lots lately about health. We can ban anything we want but that doesn’t stop us from being fat. It’s about health and personal responsibility. Us chubby’s can still be healthy, being skinny doesn’t mean u r healthy. Take responsibility for u and your kids. Stop blaming the food industry and gov…stepping off box now.

I am about to reach through my screen and punch my blog in the kisser! Technology can be so aggravating!

rough day and a heavy heart (don’t know why, seeking God for some answers), kicked serious ass at Shawn’s killer spin class then turned my car on and “We Are the Champions” was playing. I almost cried.

Tired and worn out from having to be the responsible one………

Love is my friends and hubby pulling off an amazing surprise birthday party. I feel so loved!

March

It has been 14 years since that day I almost died and God pulled the miracle card. I even was excited about having a surprise party. God is so good and I have some amazing ppl in my life!

Thanks for the well wishes….today is gonna be AMAZING! My heart is overflowing!

After listening to a baby cry for almost 2 hours in the wee hours of the morning…..my body has jumped over the edge which I was already teetering on…..don’t wanna be nice or social….off to taking Adalyn to her checkup….uuugggg!!

won the bid on my pull up bar, got sucked into the cake decorating store getting all my stuff to make an amazing chocolate chip cookie cake for our bday girl, baby girl had a fantastic appointment w/ no shots…..after a diaper blow out and loosing keys, the day is looking up!!

The time I knew Chan was growing up has come…..he had his first shred time on the mountain and apparently dominated so much the bunny hill only saw him once and never again!

off to enjoy the lovely sun with a magnificent run

Waiting for dirty bird take out……been a loooong time since i have sunk my teeth into some

thinks her body finally realized she isn’t going to quit so it decided to join in the fun

I love this beautiful state where I have AMAZING friends and the beautiful forest a hop skip and jump away to go hiking in. The beginning of hiking season.

What is it with men and video games?? I swear it is about to mysteriously disappear!

Back from the ER…Miss Adalyn sliced open 2 fingers and had to get some stitches. The bleeding wouldn’t stop after 25 minutes and mama was freaking out!

needs a personal assistant to help me remember to dress the kids for St Patty’s day

Vahn wants to watch the painting guy on channel 10..”but mommy, I need to learn how to paint a dolphin!”

Instead of moving to Japan as much as i want to…we will bring an amazing culture here.

I workout for days like today…races across the field at the park with my kids

‎”Everyone knows it’s a law of the universe! There can only be one pretty sister.” Does that mean i get to be the smart one at least???

Greatness is always in the moment of the decision.

Hopefully we get our internet today. I need to feed my desire! “I think I’m going Japanese. I think I’m going Japanese. I really think so!”

April

My beloved internet is back up….all is right with the world!

The overwhelming urge to bake something IS going to be quenched today!

Hubby on his way home with butter and chocolate chips so I can make pumpkin chocolate chip cookies…..HEAVEEEEN!

Do YOU know the muffin man?

Saw an amazing exhibit at OMSI of actual fetuses from 6 weeks to 32 weeks. Was taken until I began to think of the little lives lost and mamas who lost them.

and I get to use one of the funnest words to say…..tincture

off to make biscuits so kids can have homemade pizza rolls….I feel so domestic and healthy!

Feeling like caca today….couldn’t force myself to work out, took a nap, only got laundry done and feeling even crappier. ….Evil sickness!

feel like a kid in the candy store…so much I wanna do/accomplish….balance is tough!

one of my favorite parks with my favorite family and finally getting some chatting time with one of my most favorite friends…..my heart smiles
‎”Get yer gover’ment off my freedom!”

frustrated and tired…..AND laundry day….can’t wait to go running this afternoon!!!

just got back from buying some supplies to start my placenta encapsulation services…SUPER excited to get that going and now off for a run in the amazing sunshine

got my first placenta client lined up…happy dance!!!

I gotta stop working and chill out for a few before bed….when one thing gets done, 5 more come out of it. super duper excited to read my herbal books and be the master:)

Wise words from a 4 year old….”I love my whole family. AND I love myself!”

May

is it weird to bring my own 100 calorie hamburger bun to a BBQ? I wanna eat a burger but those darn buns!

I am working on an assignment about what herbalism is to me….I sound like all I eat is granola and drink soy milk……geeesh….I guess it IS sorta the subject at hand…

Sometimes I wish we had a whole and healthy Chan, but I guess then he wouldn’t be the Chan we love.

Today, we have a one year old……it isn’t fair!

anyone know someone locally who has bee hives and harvests their wax? I wanna purchase some and would be happier doing locally
after my run today, not sure if I wanna train for this half marathon…..long distances are soooo boring!

Isn’t my career supposed to curb my desire to have more kids? Leaving the hospital today………..

I am proud to be Chandlur’s mommy! That kid amazes me every day and is overcoming some tough stuff.

All of a sudden I have a pukey pants on my hands, he was fine one minute…… my hands are already raw from constant washing.

amazing run AND I didn’t get stuck in the down pour!

Stubbornness ruins lives….God, keep my heart soft!

A VERY manic Monday! Can we start over???

just officially signed up for the half marathon in September……crappy day so we are having sushi for dinner then we have to come home and Cozette has to somehow clean pen off of a neighbors car. Yes, we have a vandal, although not a smart one….she wrote her and her brother’s names.

My already fantastic day ended with a pukey baby last night. Seriously? Was that necessary???

June

gettin’ ready to go camping. fingers crossed the weather man doesn’t lie!

Have the best baby EVER! Didn’t fuss ONCE during camping, even when the smoke was blowing in her face! I think we have a lil camper on our hands.

Kayla Davis
Had a blast with the kiddos camping this weekend. Thanks for letting us take them =) My favorite quotes:

Vahn: No one’s allowed to wipe my butt anymore!

Chandlur: (to my dad) These pancakes are soooo good! My dad makes them bad. (then whispers to my dad) … when I make my first million I’m going to give it to you.

K has the day off and there are a few moments of no rain……off for my 7 mile long run, uugghhh

We tried to be tough Oregonians and go to the Rose Festival (and a stylish one sportin’ the stereotypical baby backpack). It started raining driving out there and didn’t stop = MISERABLE!

Did u know it’s national donut day? Some places are giving free ones! I think we are gonna have a family date night tonight!

Have been working hard on my new website and it is soooo close to being relaunched. It fits who I am better and I am pretty excited!

went to the Starlight Parade and the MAX had some issues so we got home hour and half after hoping to. Baby beat all the kids, they fell asleep and she was still bubbly at midnight!

On my run (8.5 miles!! really proud of myself) this morning I was pondering……at the beginning of the year this was to be MY year and how it has in so many ways. I heard the song “you are my inspiration…….” I have an amazing family and some pretty spectacular friends. yup, I am blessed!

I now officially have my number so insurance can reimburse for my services! Super duper excited for the opportunity that opens up!

Gonna stop working, eat some chocolate sorbet while watching Jillian kick some arse (sorta causes me to feel like a fatty). It’s ok tho cuz I’ve already done my hour yoga class, right??

Does this mean next year we will have a drought?

just finished listening to an essential oils class, now I’m on an herbalism class…..my brain is swimming with new info!

watching Baby Boom (late 80’s movie) with Diane Keaton and feeling inspired!

Vahn has been playing with his vet stuff so I asked him if he still wanted to be a veterinarian when he grows up. “NO! I want to be a super hero!”

after a very successful morning of the farmer’s market with me and the kids (yes, me and all 4 by myself), they deserve a reward of the water fountain. leaving soon for an afternoon of sun, water, and tons of kids.
after such a fun weekend of playing, we are in the final stretch of school and have a SUPER busy week. Let the games begin!

why o why are all browsers not the same*shaking my fists at all you nerdy techies*?!! I suppose only minor issues on one browser with my site is success…

got a full day tomorrow! Have another paid research group ($100 in cash babee!), then meeting with a new couple for postpartum doula services, yoga in the evening, then I have to figure when I wanna do my P90x workout.

watching America’s Got Talent and really wondering what people are thinking??!!!

sooo I have realized this summer my house may be messier than usual and the laundry may sit in the baskets an extra day before folding. I WILL be ok with that cuz I am working out 2 hours a day most days of the week, starting a business, and having summer fun with the fam…..if you come over, hope u don’t mind!

been having some seriously weird dreams! Last night I was moving and I didn’t tell my folks so my mom said they were never going to talk to me again. I started packing faster to leave. The night before, another running dream. I was running from a crazy gunman reeking havoc in the area….hhhmmmm

Do YOU know what you are capable of? We are capable of much more than we think!

annoyed by a black and white people (a person who only sees black and white, not the race silly!), I don’t want to take my kids back.
thinks the cheese man should get together with studio girl and put on a musical extravaganza!

July

a good sweaty run always puts the mind at ease, and lifts a slumpy attitude.

We got to walk through some finished and almost finished houses….so much nicer than we could have hoped…..now, fingers crossed our financing has no probs and we are building by next month!

Sent off our mortgage application today, don’t think I will sleep well until we hear back. They wanna get started building so maybe next week we hear??

is thankful for an amazing friend who has helped me find perspective. I am blessed!

The older 2 are trying to control the baby and getting frustrated when she won’t follow their plans…..she is oblivious! haha

first swimming lessons a success!

If Terri Horman DID have something to do with Kyron, can we say restitution? The money and time that has been sent when she could just be honest…OIY!

To think what life could have been like…..sometimes I am sad, sometimes angry, sometimes grateful…..all the time a better mom, a better wife, and a better woman.

again I feel I’m trudging up that damn mountain….why can’t I be one of those people were things come easy?

kids and I sweated through the parade and came back with LOTS of candy, then off to the park for a family get together where for the first time as a parent my shirt was pooped on in public, AWESOME. Almost 9 and I’m ready for bed!

CANNOT wait to use my new running shoes tomorrow! I’m hoping for no knee or shin pain

I DO floss everyday. Perhaps they are bleeding because you are poking them with a SHARP METAL OBJECT….idk *shrug*

Vahn has been wanting to go to the Decorette Shop and pick out stuff for his bday cake then make it. He picked sharks, a surfer, blue glitter for water, blue glitter gel for writing and swirly candles. He sure did make it easy! Now, if the cake making goes as easy as I hope……….

it’s official….we will be camping at Indian Henry for 3 whole nights…SUPER duper excited!

‎”Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.”

August

Off for some girl time with the most amazing Erica McNelly at a beautiful sunny swimming hole

I have been giving my power away. Yesterday I took it back. My joy has returned.

Chicken breast shaped as female reproductive system, fallopians and
all! Hubby spotted it!

prayers answered……both kids accepted Jesus into their hearts at camp today….the beginning of what we already know about Cozette, hopefully this changes everything for Chandlur and his struggles. (August 4th)

so thankful for good friends and my joy of cleaning so cleaning our camping mess isn’t such a big deal

thoroughly annoyed!

We got our letter saying we are approved!! We meet with miss happy face monday the 23. Hopefully construction will start by the end of this month, fingers crossed.

when did $55 a kid for school supplies become the norm? don’t they know some of us have more than one kid? why do WE have to buy the dry eraser makers??

We get our Old Navy shipment of school clothes….Cozette and Chan immediately open and start trying things on, Vahn goes back to playing with his legos and could care less….so Vahn!

got to read for 3 hours today now off to BBQ some fishy and corn on the cob……perfect way to spend the day!

Signed paperwork for our house…God is so amazingly good!! We are getting a 4 bedroom, 1700 sq ft house on a 5000 sq ft lot. All of the financial stuff is even better than we could have hoped for. We are in shock at all we are getting with this house! Ground breaks in about a month….I just CANNOT believe it!

can’t wait to go swimming with our favorite fam and have some pizza for dinner!!

haven’t been able to get to my biz email for 2 days, their response….a glitch in the system with no estimated time of being fixed….do they not know we are businesses???

Listening to the interview with Lars Larson and his interview with Betty Bode from Beaverton City Council…..u MUST take 18 minutes and listen……they want to celebrate Mexico Independence Day BUT they don’t want to celebrate OUR Independence Day…..did I mention, they want to spend tax payer dollars to put this on too!! Maybe Immigration should be invited??

not even mine, yet I weep

Baby found her climbing legs last week and has me chasing her even more if that is possible……she can now climb over our stair barricade and had her first fall down the stairs today. Did it scare her not to go back up again? Of course not!

September

I can’t remember the last time my stress meter has been so high….constant headache and today a migraine……preparing for my half this weekend, all the crap with getting 3 kids started for the school year, and all the paperworks/meeting/preparations to get our house started….hopefully all will be well in 2 weeks!

I finished yesterday…it took a little longer than I had hoped because of the hills at the beginning I didn’t anticipate an 3 1/2 miles on gravel hills BUT I finished, I suppose that’s all the matters. I can’t hardly move today cuz I am soo sorry from my torso down!

O yea…and please don’t ask if I wanna go for a marathon…..at this point in my life it’s a HELL NO! haha I think a half is plenty:)

We close our construction loan on the 22nd and get the hole for our foundation started about a week or so later! The more we get into this, the more excited we become about the opportunity and know this is exactly where God wants us.

It’s noon and Adalyn is STILL sleeping! The last few weeks she sleeps all day one or two days each week, my consolation prize for her lack of sleep. We knew she would go go go and drop for awhile then go go go when I was pregnant. She did the exact same thing.

I have become so predictable even my 16 month old knows! When I finished brushing my teeth this morning, she started to get the broom and dust pan.

they are chopping down ALL the incredibly old trees on this huge lot to make a “memory care” assisted living. couldn’t they have left some? they are huge and old:(

I think the kids got together and decided on mutiny but it must have been when Adalyn wasn’t around. She is the only one that has not screamed at me today…….ooo the joy of the beginning of the school year!

Chandlur “MOM! I got this cool scratch pad from the treasure box, see!? I can make a picture of a placenta for you right here!” I was trying really hard not to laugh. At least my kids know what I do hahaha

Now officially a hippie…..I placed my order to begin making all my families skincare/hair needs (so much cheaper and customized too!). I even have a recipe for natural Microdermabrasion. Super duper excited!

No more toxins through the skin for this family! If you are interested, I can recommend some great books.

turned around and she was on the table eating leftover breakfast

Vahn “WHOA! 27 dollars? We could buy 2 houses.”

Does the government REALLY need another bureau to micromanage? If consumers would inform themselves a little, there would be no need…..Oh wait, we are dumb and need the government to protect us from the big bad rich people. OIY!!

I love my kids so much that sometimes I just want to squeeze them tight, then I remember they have to breathe.

Feelin old lately! This is another night of going to bed early for the last week or so….last night I passed out at 730!

my older brother’s birthday. he is claiming 29, does that mean I can claim 26??

we all want to be unique and yet we all want to be ‘normal’ hhhmmmm what a dichotomy!

Vahn’s favorite color lately is black…..he is one of the most go lucky happy kids I know sooo not an EMO kid…..weird!

October

is thankful that God’s name is a strong tower I can run to and hide in when these emotions overcome my spirit a few times every year. I imagine sitting on God’s lap, him stroking my hair, and whispering “you are right, it ISN’T fair. it’s ok to cry about it, again. don’t forget, your worth is how I see you, not them.”

our lovely friends came over for dinner last night and left us some brownies…..a brownie accompanied my morning cup of joe and cereal…mmmmmm

Just made my first round of skin care for myself and kids. It was like playing with the science kit when I was young. Yes, I am hooked!

‎..best conversation “mommy, so which one was the boy, Adam or Eve?” “Adam” “God made him first, right?” “yup” “what are ancestors?” “ancestors are family that has lived before us.” “so, were Papa and Grandma 10 people from Adam and Eve?” me chuckling, “I don’t think they are that old. There were many many people in between.”

had a date lunch with Chan at Claim Jumper and am reminded how old he is getting and how much I love that kid…

Anyone wanna volunteer to be on our babysitter list for Saturdays at 6:30am til about 3:30?? Pretty please!! I need to be down building our house and Kevin has work. We have about a month before this will start …anyone….anyone….Bueller….Bueller…..

I found the best beauty treatment for keeping my ‘youthful glow’ today….”Who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle” Psalm 103:5

Kevin is making dinner and Adalyn has been walking around the house with one of my shoes. She has found the paper towels in the closet (Costco size). She is bringing rolls one by one to him……she must think daddy is messy:)

We speak much more than we act. What have you done today to be sunshine and make someone else’s life easier?

One successful baby shower under our belt. We had such a good time and it was fun to see the ladies dressed up for tea!

eating my snack of greek yogurt, pumpkin, and some spices watching t.v. What commercial comes up? ‘Does your litter control feces odor?’ I mean, REALLY?

Kevin was drinking milk and Vahn wanted some. He poured Vahn a cup, he chugged it and said “that was a great hit!” while wiping his mouth with his sleeve…..hhhmmmmm haha

When u can’t find the exact pieces of clothing to fit your unusual body type, make ‘em! A sewing adventure is comin’ on……

I am so thankful there are many who love my family and I
Kevin surprised me at the bus stop with a skinny pumpkin latte and the rain held off til I hit my front door……the perfect way to start the week!

Dinner tonight reminded me why I married Kevin….the soup/stew sang of fall with butternut squash, apples, chicken, some spices, and some herbs. I couldn’t help myself and had 2 servings. It was AMAZING!

So I just had my cereal with yummy vanilla hemp milk and have brushed out my first attempt at pin curls after taking a shower with body care products I have made and a shower cap. What does that make me?? A retro hippie????

Kevin and I have been waiting….Oprah and the cast of Sound of Music is on now….yes, the original cast! Afterwards, we are watching the movie…Oh how I adore this movie!

woke up with a migraine and made it through church pretty well, now it’s baad…just took my drugs, playing a movie, and laying down with the kids playing outside. happy Halloween to me!

We opted for a small party at the neighbors instead of getting a bag of candy (that I will eat half of). Adalyn got a small baby that is her new best friend and Chandlur was the only kid who stuck with it and successfully bobbed for an apple.

November

if you want change then why do you vote for the same people? why oh why???

I am now a loyal client to the chiropractic office….Mr Cutie also cracked my big toe…aaahhhh

My grandma would be mortified….after getting dirty and a little muddy clearing brush from one of the house lots, I went to Nordstrom (she retired from there) to get an item from the MAC counter in my dirty clothes. I think I get the best dressed award today!

I woke up to a face full of hives. If I hadn’t had chickenpoxs I would have been worried. I go sleep with that achy sick feeling in my body….good times!

In your gratitude for those who have and are serving, don’t forget to talk about our brave soldiers to the next generation. They need some good heroes!

JoAnn’s was having a sale…5 patterns for $5. Cozette and I spent so much time buying patterns we have to go back for the original goal of fabric cuz we ran out of time!

thinks that the ratio of vodka to sparkling water is a little more than the hubby claims.

SWF -enjoys eating dark colored markers and drooling them on my clothes, has an obsession with ooshn (lotion) and loves to eat. hobbies include furniture climbing, long walks in my stroller, playing with light switches, and playing with baby dolls. I am high energy and am not a drama queen. Seeking a partner in crime who will help me cover up and not get in trouble.

Cut out my fabric from my vintage 50’s pattern today. Fingers crossed all will turn out well because I had to do some alterations.

is thankful I have been chosen to change my family’s history, God has given me an extra measure of grace to do it, and I can run free of my baggage. God is good!

thinks you should adopt our family tradition too. we let the kids each pick a name from the tree of foster kids. We then go shop and enjoy some DQ afterward. Instead of getting people even more crap to add to their crap (I mean stuff) pile, get something for the kids, and buy gifts for those kids who wouldn’t otherwise get anything instead of adding to someone’s pile. No long shopping list anymore!

One of the things Cozette was thankful for today was “the cross”. God, all I want for Christmas is childlike faith.

Chan’s first Blazer game live….he is already talking about going to the next one. The excitement of a child is contagious!……and Kevin amazingly didn’t get hit in the head by the tube clapper thingies in all of Chandlur’s excitement.

My brother gets on the sub this coming week for 3 months. I just realized this morning that means he is missing Christmas with us for the first time……I LOVE U SCOTTY!!

I had my first taste of a Scrumdiddlyumptious Bar…..no golden ticket tho:( I guess it’s for the best because a lifetime supply of chocolate would make me GYNORMIOUS.

December

My geo metro dreams going full speed have hit a deer just standing there called reality. I am now searching for a new sturdier “car” scared out of my brains but thankful for a friend who loves me enough to give it to me straight.

will be back after a short intermission. If you don’t hear or see from me, I am alive still, I promise. I will be back better than before.

Spent the morning at the dr. What we thought was a prolonged bad asthma attack this weekend, is actually bad pneumonia. Half of Chandlur’s right lung is filled with gunk. Please pray for a quick recovery and no asthma issues.

I have been researching, thinking and praying. The career choice is….drum roll please……..nursing (for many different reasons). Yes, I think I am going to become a nurse with placentas on the side. Feels weird telling the world…….

So today, we only have one child who went to school. We have 2 boys hacking away excited cuz they get to watch movies all day. This will be the ONLY illness this winter!

Holy crappers batman! Adalyn is now sick. I feel like I am running a care facility instead of a household. I am going to start pumping Emergen-C into my veins!

Yesterday Vahn lost his first tooth. He was sooo excited and showed sister when she came home from school. She dropped it and we can’t find it. Thankfully, the tooth fairy has all seeing eyes and knows it is no longer in his mouth.

worked on our house in torrential rains and slippery mud. took my shower and am packing for a few days away with the girls…..aahhhh
waking up to a quiet enviroment and taking a shower with no interuptions…..heaven!

ever have those days you just don’t wanna say much? nothing wrong, just don’t feel like talking? I think I fulfilled all my word usage at the cabin with the ladies cuz my usual 1 day of not feeling like talking has turned into 2.

Adalyn is obsessed with baby wipes and lotion……even the pediatrician has never met a little one like her……perhaps a budding dermatologist?

My Top Words of 2010
Here are top words from my Facebook status messages!
1: Kids – used 25 times
2: Baby – used 20 times
3: Know – used 15 times

p.s….for those praying for snow, while admire your request and am usually the worst, please stop unless you want to work in it with us. Pray for some sunshine instead. My body thanks you.

I needed a great day like today! It started with the most amazing VBAC birth, then the kids singing at church, getting our Christmas tree (finally!), shopping for the kids we picked off the tree and a blizzard at the DQ……all topped with working on a placenta tonight….(ending with a big contented sigh)

If your kids come home and ask about where babies come from and tell you all about placentas….sorry! Every time they have more questions and seem even more fascinated. This time, they got to touch a placenta and received a mini lecture on handling blood protocol…..perhaps one or more docs in the future??

It may be a coffee day! We’ve got lots to accomplish…finishing stage 2 of the placenta and taking to mama, making some lotiony type gifts for K’s family Christmas tomorrow, finish the sewing project with the kids for K’s mom, grocery shopping for tomorrow cuz K is the chef, folding the laundry….oh what else???

our house is being framed today and we will have a roof by the end of the week!

i just learned a new word, ‘pansexual’. have you heard/know anyone who refers to themselves as this?
now, back to studying my algebra

Tags: 2010 • facebook

We have finally ventured into the land of family camping. I took Chandlur once when he was a baby and it was MISERABLE! We had no idea how Miss Adalyn would do. It was just Kevin, her, and I because the other 3 were other places for the weekend. We went one night out to Fish Lake. It was a bring your own water and s#!t shovel. The day before we went shopping and had to get some supplies since we didn’t have much. That was an adventure in itself! Me with 2 little kids and this tiny shopping cart lugging around tons of crap. Thankfully an employee saw my struggle and offered to help. So, back to camping…… We hadn’t gone to this place before so we had no idea what to expect. We had to hike up and down this huge hill/trail down to the site from our car. That was fun! It was a nice chill time and baby did so much better than I could have even hoped! She slept just fine and even napped. She spent lots of time in her bouncy seat we usually keep outside for her. When the smoke got in her eyes, she would spin around and not even a peep. She never fussed once! It was a nice test run and quite successful. I think we will finally be able to be a camping family!

Tags: camping • family • vacation

I love the small moments with my kids, the moments I cherish. I got some with 3 out of 4 kids today. It was a bleh kinda day, about the only smiles I got today. Vahny and I had a tickle fight this morning, that crazy hair that desperately needs to be cut, and those extra blue eyes because he has been kissed by the sun. Goodness, he is so cute with those blue eyes and his craters (dimples that are incredibly deep).

I got to take Chandlur to his therapy session tonight. He also displayed his sweet character during therapy. JoAnnita stubbed her toe and he stopped mid sentence to make sure she was ok. He held one of the swings on his obstacle course so it wouldn’t bump into me. He even did the best I have seen with listening and remembering what animal to pick up and which color hula hoop to throw it in. Toping that all off with our car conversation of what his favorite music is. It warms my heart to see him improving and when we have more big boy type of conversations. That kid is so amazing!

Now, my sweet Adalyn. She loves to be tossed around, wrestled with, and tickled. Her laugh has just changed. It is more toddler and less baby. She also loves to dance around, dipping and all. There was a song on that I really like, Aerosmith’s “Dream On”, and she wanted me to pick her up. I had just gotten back from Chandlur’s appointment and she missed her mommy. I flung her around, dipped her, twirled in circles and had her giggling.

I live for these small moments I get with my babies.

Tags: happiness • small moments • therapy

Today I have been reminded why I don’t like school carnivals. Just like fundraisers, can’t I just send in some money to support the school and call it good? I suppose as long as the kids had a good time? There were so many people and I kept loosing the kids, Kevin volunteered to work a booth for the first shift which ended up being half of the last one, and there just didn’t seem to be very many booths. I guess on the upside it was splendid weather!

On a much different note. We are again at a loss with Chandlur. His tantrums seems to be louder, and occur more than they have in some time. He is getting way to big to drag upstairs to his room. I know I workout and all, but still, all that dead weight! His therapist has not idea either. We are hoping that his brain is just doing another adjustment and it will calm back down soon. Maybe this will be the cycle until his brain is 100%. It seems every few weeks we have a horrid week then he is back to being the kids we know is in there. I can understand a small bit how parents with autistic children feel. We have sensory integration and ADHD. I understand when they say how amazing their kids are and they want the world to see it. Chandlur IS amazing and I feel so lucky that people DO get to see it.

Tags: ADHD • school • sensory integration

2010 is gonna be MY year like no year ever before! I am gonna be my goal size, I’m gonna finish my school and take some other amazing classes to add to my repertoire of services, my business is gonna be rockin! Tonight is the yearly goal setting

I am so not down with the illness and my body wants to eat lots of yummy food! Curses!

i guess yoga is gonna have to wait for another day…..

my desk is a mess of papers, my brain is still full of business stuff to do, however I feel the call of CSI and fudge……

is it really necessary to have 50 stickers which need to be perfectly placed on a Barbie House??

lots of fudge, no working out = food natzi next week

Dear Asthma, plaguing a 6 year old boy and scaring his mom isn’t very nice. Can you so kindly take your inflaming personality and the miserableness it brings somewhere else? In our home we only like positive people who give energy, not those who suck it away. Thanks for your consideration. Next time I may not be so nice.

family pics…..successful and we got some good ones! I have the best kids!

family pics this afternoon….fingers crossed for cooperative children!

SANTA!!! I KNOW HIM!! I hope he doesn’t mind a rice crispy treat snowman instead of cookies. We thought it would make us stand out a bit and maybe get something better.

This day is sooooo not turning out how I was hoping! So much for work getting done. bleh!

would the baby like a homemade burger blended up? (we make our own baby food round these parts and apparently this little lady likes serious flavor)

my Christmas resolution….no stress! No cards sent out and not even the feeling of guilt, no spending money on siblings and helping those kids who otherwise won’t have a Christmas, only a few traditions will be kept alive (gotta keep cooking day!!)

The baby cried all night long which has left me with a huge headache and tired eyes, HOWEVER I can’t dampen my spirits cuz Scott is coming home today and we are one day closer to Christmas.

the baby has been asleep since 9 this morning! It is now 2:15! I have to keep checking on her to make sure she is still breathing. Maybe this means she is kicking the icky cold once and for all??

it’s almost 2010….our cars don’t fly and I don’t have my robot maid. Perhaps another 15-20 years?

so happy there is finally a car seat installation certification class in our area…making life safer, one car at a time:)

my body has begun revolting….killer migraine today. it’s like satan is in there laughing at me. Are my goals too ambitious??? Seriously???

discouraged but oh so happy to take that energy to the gym for a kick butt run

oooppps…the tooth fairy forgot but she made up a great excuse that was whole heartedly embraced

sleeping in today cuz daddy had the baby last night…aaahhhh feels so good! gonna be decorating our tree today. Our first huge tree in 3 years!!!!!!!!

life always seems better after a cup of joe….strong and BLACK

vahn just peeled his first little cutie (a tiny little orange) all by himself and boy is he proud of himself….the simple things to bring mommy a smile

I think I am addicted to the gym…..the anticipation of my high is here even with little sleep last night (thanks yet again little one. I’m glad u r cute!)

can anyone teach me a new skill? I need to learn how to sleep with my eyes open.

NOVEMBER

thankful for Al Gore who invented the internet!! Overwhelming amount of resources and fantastic Christmas shopping…Thanks Al!

listening to Christmas music after a kick ass workout (James…it was one hour 15 and I did the back and dead bug:)), smelling the beautiful smells of clean children…..all is right with the world

survived my 2 hour spin class…just barely. I have never pushed myself so hard and have reached a new workout awareness (can you see the clouds parting and the angels singing? I can)…o and yeah for a free personal trainer who will help me be the hot mama of my dreams (u r the coolest!)!!!

o the tangled web we weave when we don’t live truthfully and authentically

instead of getting caught up in your Christmas list…skip a few adults on it and pick out names of kids who won’t be getting anything

went to an adoption dinner last night….this bug is biting hard but we have to wait for a house….next year….did u know in Oregon there are over 11,000 kids in the foster system and 3,500 free for adoption?

miracles happen!!!! our neighbor is being weaned off the ventilator and sat up on the edge of the bed with no drugs yesterday!! keep praying for continued healing and thanks to those who have been praying for him

any other brave, crazy souls out there to join me? I paid my $1 and signed up for a 2 (yes, not a typo) hour spin class Thanksgiving morning starting at 8….Bueller….Bueller….

i think this may be a 2 cup of coffee kinda day….busy on no sleep….again…….who’s up for Zumba tonight at Beaverton 24?

I think I should just stop trying to sleep. I wake up more tired then when I went to bed…..what’s the use?

spin class = very tired legs!

thinks she has no more time for facebook games

hubby surprised me with an extra day off. I got to go back to bed while he got the kids ready for school. then he helped clean some stuff I have been putting off…he’s the coolest!

I have it on good authority, sugar makes your hair short cuz it comes out of little holes on your head….can my fat cells get the same message?

finished making cookies with the kiddos, now I gotta get ready for a busy busy week. if I lost my daily calendar I’d be in a hole crying

thinking of unicorns and rainbows

pray for my neighbor, Josh, more….he might only have a few more days on this earth. he has taken a huge turn for the worse

“rejoice and again I say rejoice” There WILL be a happy cloud over my house!!!

all of my children have landed themselves a free trip to their bed…they didn’t get to pass go or get their $200. they have the rest of the week off from school and it’s only the first morning of the first day!! this is going to be a loooong week

1/2 hour of elliptical and an hour of a weights class…my body is ready for bed!

now that I have been slapped upside the head by God (check out my blog if u wanna know), I’m off to clean some bathrooms and underwear while enjoying a morning with only the baby

sooo….I’m really proud of this page and have to share it…it has taken some work even tho I had some help with the base of each glass http://www.organicbabydoula.com/follow-us.html

anyone feeling nostalgic about fourth of July? I have a baby here who sounds just like a Picolo Pete……and she is free

I make very smart kids….u will see them conquering the world….watch out!

tired of boys who don’t wanna be men and then they wonder why we are the way we are..ggeeeesh!

i’m hungry, tired, my to-do list is not getting done, laundry STILL needs to be folded….blah!

had a fantastic hike in Washington Park with some amazing ladies then hubby bbq’ed for din din yuummmmy! For those praying for Josh, keep it up!! He is incredibly sick, still in ICU, and it doesn’t look good. From a very healthy guy to this in about a week..

please pray for my neighbor’s grandson, Josh. he went to the hospital yesterday with pneumonia and last night was put on a ventilator. She was just told he took a turn for the worse

why is there bubble wrap around the trash can at a hole in the wall Indian restaurant?

playing the heat game….o is it fun!

comparing baby pics….Miss Adalyn doesn’t look like Vahn or Cozette…hhhmmm

OCTOBER

a successful candy getting expedition…everyone loved Lego man

holy crappers batman…my legs are still shaky…Erica and I are going to be stadium ninjas in no time!

about to kick some arse at good ol’ THS running stadiums….burn baby burn!

You become old when you stop learning

tomorrow is going to be a better day!! I AM going to do some stadium stairs! If I hack up a lung at least it will be on someone else’s property

tired after yet another long night with a baby who thinks she needs to wake up every hour or two…almost 6 months of this and I am DONE! can’t she see I need sleep to stop being sick??? At the mercy of someone so small…hhhmmm

tired of cheap appliances they keep fixing and replacing!!!!

feellin like caca today….took a few naps even! I shocked my hubby and told him I’m taking the day off:) this is going to be a long winter!!

thinks not procrastinating sure does take energy! my list has just about been accomplished every day for 2 weeks and I am starting to get up early to workout and read my Bible…now if this baby could just figure out how to sleep life would be golden!

has confirmed her shortness…a mini skirt is just above the knee

had a fun field trip at the pumpkin patch and made a new friend..how come her and I were the only parents going down the slide??!! a group of party poopers if u ask me!

i guess one out of 4 babies who doesn’t sleep is good odds….sure does make a tired mommy tho!

signed the adoption petition on the sperm donor’s bday..irony perhaps? now off to eat some squash and duck for din din….love having a man who loves to cook!

off to sign the adoption petition..finally! my feelings are so crazy right now I feel I could cry.

Cummin…what a great weight loss solution…I open the cupboard and am reminded of those summers on public transportion

istening to Vahn make up stories and talk to himself next to me….that kid has the funniest imagination….he keeps me laughing!

been having THE most productive day….feels fantastic! finally gave in and turned the heat on for the first time in many many many moons

thanks to Karli….crisis averted and DC shoes for only $19!!!

I had the most layed back cpr/first aid instructor! we even got out 2 hours early!!! if you know anyone who needs a postpartum doula or is pregnant and may need one, I am ready…….

had a great time out in good ol Newberg at a bday party for the day…..now sooo not looking forward to my infant/child cpr and first aid tom…if it wasn’t a must for my biz I would skip it:)

preparing for tomorrow…no school and we are gonna have junk food day all day starting with Lucky Charms for breakfast and ending with pizza for dinner with some cookies, candy, popcorn, and soda in the middle.

who takes care of mommy when she is puking out her brains??

praying for creative genious and the knowledge to do it

watching Modern Family on fancast while the laundry is being folded…where is Mary Poppins when I need her most?

in about 3 months all will be official!! aannnnddd it was much cheaper than we were prepared for…God is good!!

off for an early lunch all around cuz we get to meet with the lawyer…i’m doing a happy dance cuz we get too and I was blessed unexpectedly with the generosity to pay for it

what a good day I have had….now, if only the laundry will fold itself

we are meeting with an adoption lawyer on thursday!! finally this will be officially done! I can hardly contain my excitement!

feels like a manic monday…..

had to give a round of allergy medz to all three older kiddos! they must be bad cuz Vahn usually doesn’t have probs

scanning tons of pics….the internet is awesome! no more lost or damaged pics

another day in paradise and a dutch bro coffee thanks to my hot pediatrician who had fantastic taste in shoes (she is a woman)

has a smile that I can’t seem to wipe away

I wish I had Zoe’s magic wand to fix things

our new Monday tradition….going to school for lunch with the kiddos. They eat at the same time and their class tables are right next to each other

a chill day with a trip to the most awesome skate park soon

more tired when when I got up then when I went to bed last night…

recovering from a migraine hangover (they usually last a few days), but the kitchen is now clean and the baby has her 4 month checkup today….can’t wait to see how fat she is…I finally have a chubby baby!! yiippeee!

it sux mommies don’t get sick days…..i had one of the worse migraines I’ve had in awhile…thankfully I got a 2 hour nap when K came home

my friends r pretty incredible ppl who inspire me constantly

had to send my crying Cozette on the bus….I cried walking home

off to bed with a full heart and happy thoughts…such a great way to start off the second week of school!

geez I’m not worried if anything happened to me…Cozette will keep this house in fantastic working order. She is so amazing and doesn’t let being small deter her. Thank goodness for chairs!

Remembering those today who lost their lives and those who loved them…remembering those who have given up their lives for the fight and praying for those who continue to fight for our freedom

9-10 a successful first day of school for Zettie and we lost the first tooth in our house (well, I yanked it out)

Soooo proud of myself if I may say so….after only a week and a half I am already up to running a straight mile! Don’t worry, I have already patted myself on the back a few times:)

our kiddos start school tomorrow…..watching Obama’s speech incase they show a rebroadcast at school…so far only about inspiring education. I am hoping no talk about the economy or politics

Why do women have to be caddy and 2 faced?? Off to go running in the rain…it’s the best!

my kids had their first ding dong and were so excited by it…too cute!! Now off to the parents for a bday dinner with my bro who is visiting for the first time since Christmas…ooo how we have missed him!

Kevin found out he gets Tuesday off too cuz he works Saturday! We actually get a 3 day weekend. WAHOOO!

nutin’ like some Dutch luv to change the course of the day! i love my hubby!

this day has started out quite crappy…..litterally!

farmtown…folding laundry….farmtown….folding laundry…hhhmmm

Miss Adalyn 3 months—add pic

AUGUST

my first run since my back went out…hell! Finding out Cozette got into full day kindergarten…Heaven!

having blueberry pancakes, Kevin’s amazing scrambled eggs, and some nice dark coffee….talk about delic!

i love having a computer…it’s like a second t.v and we don’t need cable..Mad Men here we come

a few deep breaths in a quiet home….aaahhhh

“Instead of condemning people, let’s try to understand them. Let’s try to figure out why they do what they do. That’s a lot more profitable and intriguing than criticism; and it breeds sympathy, tolerance, and kindness.”

on ebay checking on my bid for Chan’s DC shoes….he’s gonna be the coolest kat (well, not that he already isn’t). trying to recover from another night…seiously all my kids slept through the night by 2 1/2 months…she is nearing four???

the weather is how i feel…..3 days of the baby eating every 1 1/2 to 2 hours day and night makes for a cranky mama

working on business stuff…..hopefully be able to start seeking clients soon!

“we’re not gonna take it……we’re not gonna take it…..”

recovering today after a fun night with the neighbors…….a fifth really???

anyone know a guy who is good with a skateboard and wants to teach a young one? my sis is looking for someone to help Chan learn (he keeps amazing us how good he already is) and be a sorta big bro/teacher at the skate park….she is even willing to pay!

watching the hot rod tour on Rides…..holy cow these are some amazingly beautiful machines….I am so incredibly jealous…..seriously, what guy puts in a helicopter engine into a small pickup??

about to close the windows for the day, eat some lunch, then go swimming with my fab sis

“when my skateboard job gets old, and then my bike job gets old, my job will be like Michael Jackson. Look mommy, I can do the moon walk!” the dreams of a 6 year old…..

another night of no sleep…a puking child AGAIN and a baby who didn’t want to sleep…..as Kevin says “u can sleep when u r dead”

paying bills…..in the last 20 days we have only talked 135 minutes on our phones combined….yikes! we have no life haha

tired and in need of another cup off coffee….mama’s midnight job of taking care of a puking child..it sure is a 24/7 job!

needs a little more excitement in her life

does anyone know what kind of foam is in an self-inflating mattress? anyone know anyone I can ask??

after a fun night of sushi and creme brulee…..it’s a coffee day today

busy day getting kids and clothes ready for pics in a couple hours and making a cake for Kevin’s bday….busy busy day with the promise of a date night eating sushi…yyyuumm!

cleaning out and going through the kid’s clothes…holy cow!!! we sooo don’t need to go back to school shopping. Cozette is such a girl!

I love my ladies….they fill me up every monday and I can make it through all the crazy days our house has

gonna have some red meat and cancer for dinner…mmmmm does broccoli cancel it all out?

debating on if I should take the baby back to the dr….trying the nebulizer with water…..fingers crossed! She has been sick for almost 3 weeks!

feel refreshed today……a decent night sleep after 2 weeks of dealing with an unhappy baby and cooler weather sure do help!

have so much to ponder………

off to the fair to watch some huge ol cars smash the hell outta each other! rrraaahhhh!!!!!

trying to figure out YoVille in all this spare time I wish someone gave me…..is there a game that gives this as a prize??

JULY

wanna make the special blueberry muffins that could win any baking contest….it’s gonna be 93 tho….hhhmmm

pirates and barbies cohabitating…….only in lego land….thanks Kayla!

off to sit in the kiddie pool and read a book while the wimpy hubby (hey at least he just got out of work in air conditioning!) holds the baby inside by the fan

thankfully the baby won’t need the ER…now what to do for the rest of the day….this heat dashed away the idea of the park…hhhhmmm

dreaming of a full great night of sleep……..

packing up the kids for time at grandmas…..3 weekends in a row K and I have had some quiet other than the baby…i feel spoiled!!

Vahn: (kissing the baby) “she smells poopy!” Chandlur: “Welcome to mom’s world!”

planning the rest of our week….it’s gonna be a busy one with swimming, the beach, some fire works

remembering 5/20/2008…..someday

off to the skate park with my talented boy then on a happy hour date with my hubby….6 years!!!

i don’t need help to stay cool……i gots enough on my own

my son just took a dump outside and the baby won’t stop crying….o the joys of children haha

all around in a bad mood…feelin’ pissed and guilty with this damn back

does anyone have a carpet shampooer we could borrow?? I thought I knew someone with one but can’t remember who…Bueller…Bueller

can’t wait for my dr appt today! I hope some quick cracks and all will be well again.

where’s the genie for my 3 wishes??

trying to move around with a seriously messed up back….it’s been 5 days now walking like an old lady and taking heavy drugs…..can’t a girl catch a break??

aahh a quite house….the kids just left for their first camping trip with my brother and sister….hopefully they will return without too much injury and tons of funny stories

my little slaves have helped clean dishes and toilets….their payment – a piece of licorice and a popsicle……if only a professional house cleaner was so cheap……

we finally have our first loose tooth and a very excited little boy

my back just about had me on the floor again…thankfully I still have some good drugs!

been a busy day and hoping the baby will sleep better tonight than the last few!!

craving burgers and more tired today than in awhile……not again!!

a fun night with some fam and friends, and a short show at Tigard High….we skipped church…and now we are about to go out and enjoy the day with Kevin’s folks

listening to God Bless the USA and getting the chills…ooo how I love my country!

weary and overwhelmed by responsibilities

JUNE

went for my first run in many moons…….painfully wonderful!! the night is perfected with my fav movie….go Elle Woods!

a day full of chill after a busy 4 days…a nice quite house and waiting for my lunch to finish cooking…Trader Joes, I love u!!

thanking God for hope restored yet again….sorry God that I lost it in the first place!

a full night of sleep thanks to an amazing hubby and the wonderful invention called a bottle….getting ready to go swimming….do I still fit into my suit??

got to dance with my hubby today at a wedding…….we are soooo white!

the kids are watching Sandlot…love passing on the classics!

breaking news………Michael Jackson just died of a heart attack!!!!!!

got 6 straight hours of sleep last night!!! Now about to workout my upper body with all the kids taking a nap and watching Weeds….OOOO how I love naptime!!

my mini slaves helped clean and did spectacular, I got a nice long nap, a book is being held at the library I have been waiting a while for, and it’s beautiful outside….could life get better??

dizzy from my drugs and dealing with a very fussy baby…ooo they joys of reproduction….

back from a refreshing walk in the rain….thanks for the enlightenment God!

it’s hard to keep my mouth shut and not rescue my kids from a bossy neighbor….where’s the duct tape??

Chandlur has just informed me he is ready for college…hhhmmm

a house full of children for the morning including the neighbor’s 3 then we get to go see my little boy graduate kindergarten…is it necessary to have a ceremony when they will go back to the same school and have the same schedule??

go go gadget mask

having a productive monday cleaning bathrooms (why can’t boys aim???), the dreaded laundry, planning my week, made Zettie’s appt for her ear…..and it ain’t even noon:)

u realize u r grown up when….on a Friday night u walk out of the liquor store (happy u found what u wanted on sale) to your minivan, drive home and spend the night having drinks with your hubby and watching a movie..am I really this old???

i am waiting for a child to start bleeding…they have been fighting all morning…maybe i should lock them in their room to duke it out??

he baby is sleeping in her bed for the first time and I even put her down partly awake! she is such a good baby!!

King Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines!! Just had to share the random fact of the day.

and yes, I had to look up if it was wheelbarrel or wheelbarrow..haha

just watched my kids try to be tough and fight each other then I got to teach them how to wheelbarrow race..I am so thankful to be a sahm!

our microwave we thought died last week came back to life….o happy day!!

paying bills today…maybe i shouldn’t have done this on the same day as my least favorite chore–laundry..blah!

feel like i am finally getting my brain back in the game. ooo mama’s feelin’ good…i guess my first glass of wine in a while didn’t hurt

after some drugs and coffee feeling better, even did a small leg workout and hoping to go walking when Kevin gets home

woke up with a migraine coming on..i was hoping to have a productive day…as Kevin said last night, whether the laundry gets folded or not, it will still be used

discovered an awesome show called Weeds…thanks Netflix!!

my day was made by my fav latte from a beautiful friend….thanks for being thoughtful!!

wishing I could figure out my son and how to help him

a looong night with the baby and a looong day with 2 very naughty children…u can find me rocking in the corner mumbling to myself

MAY

some tired kiddos going down for nap…fingers crossed they sleep well!! the parade was fun but it did make for a late night

just put my preggo clothes away and hung up my “normal” clothes. it always feels so nice!

the first day of no steroids…wahoooo!! hopefully within the next few weeks my body will return to normal and I can work on shedding this fat again

watching a segment on parenting.. why can’t we let kids be kids? let them outside to get dirty and fall off the monkey bars a few times for goodness sake! whose the parent and whose the child??

the kids are already outside playing….throwing Vahn’s breakfast of banana bread we made last night to the ducks..that kid and his love for animals….

enjoying the warm sunshine, smelling the bbq, getting ready to go to Camas for a picnic with a whole bunch of in-laws

so thankful I get to stay home with the kiddos!….passing on my love of books and the hilariousness (is that a word??) of watching Vahn trying to crab walk.

chillin outside with a whole bunch of kiddos

O and today was hubby’s first day of his “real” job…an answer to a few months of prayers……what a great day haha

Vahn and Cozette just left with grandma til wednesday…..a nice quiet day tomorrow and maybe even a nap???

after some serious complications with mama, we are home and doing better than I expected

Our Adalyn Grace Baird  –with pics

my last treatment listening to the new baby next door who keeps crying..finally hitting me I’m gonna have FOUR kids!!

Amazingly thankful for being a restored Leah and having amazing friends!

APRIL

1 week and 1 day + 1 treatment left and hopefully she will be named soon after she is born instead of just being baby girl.

to all my peeps….i haven’t been feelin social lately. been miserable and if it’s not one thing its something else. sorry for all the silence…thankfully my hubby is a nice guy:)

hoping this baby drops soon so I can breathe again..having dreams of suffocation was not fun!

thankful my stuff or lack there of doesn’t define me nor the happiness of my family

so maybe filling the swimming pool was a little premature…oh well….we just got so excited after yesterday!

amazed at how good God is!! when I’m ready to settle He blows away my expectations and gives me more than I asked for.

is dealing with a puking kiddo..fingers crossed I don’t get it cuz I basically have no immune system with all my medz

at the hospital with the first day of double dose..now 12-13 hours. i can’t wait to get home and weigh myself to see how much stuff is coursing through my veins.

the verdict is in….a c-section in 4-5 weeks (is it already time????) with double weekly IVIG therapy and i get to pop some roids. is it really only a month away???

been watching Vahn chase the ducks and almost fall into the pond….my animal lover!

thankful my hubby knows how to cook….burritos better than a restaurant for lunch!

had another dr appt today. had to have a non stress test and tomorrow I have to collect my all my pee in this huge jug then take it to the hospital and get more blood work…..if it ain’t one thing it’s another! she better be a low maintenance baby!

too much to do and def not enough time!!

MARCH

had a nice day with Elise and fam, now off to prayer group…gotta get me some religion:)

my lovely sis just stopped by and we r gonna make some yummy smoothies!!

is sitting at the hospital for another treatment wishing i didn’t have to be a responsible adult.

accomplishing a looong to do list while getting my house back in order after 20 hours of life insurance class in 2 days!

can’t believe one of my kids has a broken bone already and the first trip to the ER. on the upside I got a new pair of shoes:)

is dealing with our first major school injury, Chan dislocated his pinky on the playground

doesn’t know how much longer I can take this seriously low iron thing.

thinks this baby is going to be a super hero with how much iron she is sucking up!

has a card shark on her hands. Vahn won both rounds of Princess Crazy Eights!

can’t believe medical technology!

has no motivation to tackle the to-do list. The bathrooms won’t be too much grosser in a couple days right??

is starting a crazy busy week….fingers crossed for lots of success!!

FEBRUARY

just saw a pic of a donut…I want a whole bunch of donuts!!!

needs a nap to prepare for the busy weekend

is waiting for my free birthday blizzard..yyyuummm

at the hospital for my treatment yet again… we r now 2/3 of the way done

is taking copias amounts of iron tablets and laying down lots to keep them down

is just found out I’m anemic AGAIN even tho I’m taking 3 iron vitamins a day!

is ready for a good nice sleep and some mental energy!

is thinking Valentine’s Day is a bunch of crap. Can’t we show the love year round??

is making some dough selling our crap on craigslist

is down another round of treatment

JANUARY

is trying to get my head back in the game

Tags: facebook

We have been blessed with some money from a very generous neighbor.  They gave us money so Chandlur can be officially a Baird.  About 2 weeks ago we had to go into the lawyers office and sign the petition.  We had all the kids in tow.  Afterwards we talked to Chandlur about what we were doing.  He was so funny.  He had no idea and didn’t really seem to even care.  We tried to explain to him that his name will be changed from Hodgson to Baird.  He said “Oh, like the name my teacher calls me?”  We said yes.  If you ask him his full name, he will tell  you Baird (he can’t even pronounce Hodgson).  We have brought it up to him a few times since and he acts like it’s no big deal.  His nonchalance cracks me up.  In about 2 months or so he will be official and no more of this name crap!  He sees no difference in context to his family, however, when he has to pick out a face color, he tends toward brown.  For instance, his favorite GI Joe has a brown face, when asked to color himself, it’s brown.

Maybe someday he will be curious or maybe not.  Who knows.  I thought at this point he would be asking questions.  I think it’s so cute how he doesn’t seem to think twice about being different.

Speaking of adoption……Mr Spiegel is an adoption attorney and gave us info on adopting.  Since I was a teenager I knew I wanted to adopt.  After looking over it all, the bug has bit HARD!  Much like the baby bug hits me.  It won’t be for awhile though because we need more space.  Maybe in a couple years……

Tags: adoption • Chandlur

Usually God and I get along. Right now…I am sooo angry at Him. I get the fact I needed to slow down and eliminate some things. I am a good wife and listened to my hubby who recently suggested that. Do I really need to be pretty much incapacitated though? I have to take oxycodone just to be able to move. Why God did you have to mess up my back so bad? I have just started to get back to exercising and getting my life in a rhythm. Now, I can hardly move, I can’t be the mom I want to be nor care for myself how I want. All I can do is sit in this damn rocking chair. I can’t even sit on the couch because it makes my back worse. I keep crying because I am so incredibly frustrated and feel guilty not being able to care for my kids how they need. Come on God, can’t You give me a break?? It has already been 5 days!

Tags: God • motherhood • pain

It never ceases to amaze me how the older you get, the quicker life seems to pass you by. The baby no longer looks like a newborn, she is now a baby. Yesterday was her 2 month birthdate. It seems like I just had her, at the same time it seems she has always been a part of our family. For those who doubted my decision to have another, our family would have been forever empty of her sweet presence. She just fits and that’s how I know she was meant to be ours. I just hope and seek wisdom to be worthy enough to raise her (I guess that is the prayer with all my kids). She has gotten the name flamingo. When Kevin holds her up to talk to her, she keeps one foot down and the other she puts back like a flamingo. In the last few days she has gotten quite talkative. She goes on and on like she is telling you an incredibly important story. She also is started to turn her head and make eye contact when the kids come up to talk to her. We think she will be a people person because when she is awake, she wants to know someone is close by or she lets out this little sound that is so feminine and too cute (this really high pitch “oow oow oow”). Her favorite thing to look at, my huge bookshelf. She stares and stares at it. Perhaps a smarty pants and book lover?? Miss Addie is even a great sleeper. She goes about 7 hours at night until she needs to eat, eats then goes about another 4-5 hours. I feel so blessed and honored that God has entrusted me with this beautiful person.

Tags: Adalyn • children

Sometimes God gives me a little glimpse into His sense of humor. Why else do we fart? On Monday I had a doctor appointment. I had to take some nice drugs so my sister had to take me. Before we left, for some reason Vahn had bandaids in his pocket. He gave one to me and wanted me to put it in the diaper bag in case I needed it. He is such a sweet guy! We got to the office, I sat down in a chair, and slipped off my shoes. Grace looked down and said my foot was bleeding. I took out a baby wipe and cleaned it up. Grace reminded me of the bandaid. After it was cleaned up, I put the bandaid on. One of those simple times when God reminds me He will always take care of me even if its as simple as a cut on my little toe. Thanks God!