New Memorial Day tradition

Meet the Kaysville Boxcar Children

That's what it reminded me of taking these pictures. It also reminded me of my childhood. These were my stomping grounds when I was young. We had fields upon fields that surrounded my parents home. I would play for hours out in them with my brother Brian. We had so much fun as kids with so much space to run and play. Most of the fields are now gone. They started disappearing around third grade. I forgot about the lack of fields and the fun I had there, until I was exploring with my kids this last one little piece of heaven. I was surprised at how well their imaginations came alive when given the space to work with. Even when we went back to my parents yard they seemed to be more content to play outside. I think something was sparked within them.

So When I realized the next day was memorial day, and remembered what I did last year for memorial day, I knew I wanted to capture some of that spark on film(?). Anyway, it was a gorgeous overcast day with the sun just barely peeking through the clouds. I wish I had had more time, but we had some other fun plans for the day too, now that we are back with family. We just might have to go back and indulge ourselves in imagination building activities. Can't wait.

I do love this picture. I love the grace of her beautiful hands.

I adore this picture too. Isn't she stunning?

I am so glad I got one of Micah's hands too. I didn't do it on purpose, but was so glad I got one of each of them.

Josie also turned 22 months old yesterday. Maybe that is why most of the pictures got focused on her. I just can't stand that time is slipping through my fingers and she is growing so fast. She is a feisty little thing. She makes her mind known through her actually very well developed vocabulary. She could give a lot of older two year olds a run for their money. We love her spunk, dramatic facial expressions, and love for her adoring siblings.

One Year

It was one year ago today that we moved from Spokane. I can't believe how fast that year went for me. Compared to my actual year in Spokane. This has been a heavenly year. Minus a few choice friends from Spokane, I wouldn't mind forgetting the whole year ever happened. It was truly one of the hardest years of my life. So glad it is one year behind me now. However it does make me sad that that means it has been two years since I have been in Oregon. I could go back there in a heart beat. Miss it so much...but looking forward to two more years in Utah with many cousins, aunts, uncles, and especially grandparents.

Then, we shall see.....

Things I am learning while running

I can't believe that i have only been trying to become a runner for 5 months!!! Couldn't you just put in the time and then have your body be frozen in time? That would be so nice. I could put in 6 months total dedication to something like running it I knew it was going to last me forever!!! and I mean FOR--EV--ER!!! Continual torture is no small feat to overcome, but I am trying. Here are a few things I have learned, challenged myself, or am experiencing along this journey...

• Running 4 or 5 times a week is not as bad as running 6
• I like to run one way on a route, and then run back the same way, and on the same side of the road. I think my hips feel screwed up if I don't.
• Running music is good, but I like to listen to conference talks too.
• It is really mind over body. My body is pretty strong, but my mind is stronger. I can talk myself out of running another block very easy.
• 3.4 miles was quite an accomplishment for me. 4 miles is better. I won't tell you how long it takes me...does it really matter?
• I can go for a run with three kids. Double stroller and Bike, and still feel successful, maybe a little more tired and patience tried, but successful.
• I like the way muscles feel under my skin. I don't ever remember them feeling this strong.
• Some motorists couldn't care less about you. Almost got hit.
• Although I don't like to run during it, I like the sense of accomplishment after.
• I don't think I will ever get a runners high. It really is just enduring.

SICU

This handsome fella has started his SICU rotation. All I can say is that I can not wait until it is over and am so glad it is only 4 weeks. I am also thankful John chose anesthesia instead of so many other specialties he could have chosen. 102 hours in one week is just too much!!!

Before that he worked a research rotation which was like an unexpected breath of fresh air. He got to work a lot from home and be around so much more. We loved it and were so glad he was home. Here are some things he didn't miss out on because he was home.

• Stitching up Deeken's chin
• Micah's Birthday
• Micah's Birthday Party
• Micah's bad day
• Noah's first day of baseball practice and game
• Helping me get our car fixed ($1500 later!)
• Getting a new drivers license
• Getting the van registered in Utah(good bye Oregon license Plates)

  We already know he will miss a few things this month.

• Noah's Baseball games
• Micah's Kindergarten program
• They graciousley ARE giving him a few hours to run to Micah's ballet recital
• A trip to Rockland
• Lava Hot Springs
• Numerous trips to Cherry Hill

  Smile though your heart is Breaking! Just for a couple more years right?

The Workman's

She has been a great visiting teacher and friend. She will be missed greatly in our church, but before they move on they let me take some pics of their family. Thanks for the opportunity Mandi and all you other wonderful Workmans too!

Swagger Wagon

Here is a little something to make you smile.

If you go to youtube, you can see a lot of the funny commercials the "Sienna family" has created. Cheers to all!

Micah had a Bad day

1. Mich broke open a scab om gym and got blood all over her pants. They wouldn't let her go back to class until she got new clothes. I was out running when they called for me to come. She ended up in some size 4 pants and some Joe Jonas socks.

2.She was riding the motorized scooter with her cousin, and fell. That's what the mark by her eye is from. She also got her hands scuffed and one shoulder and big scratch on her tummy.

3. Mom was trying to be creative on a bike ride to a friend's house, and Micah fell off the back of the bike onto the tire. Her bum had tire marks on it and her heal also got caught bad in the spocks.

4. Then while at said friend's house she was jumping on the tramp and a bigger boy kicked her in the face. Thus the fat bloody lip.

My poor baby girl!

Peanut Butter

It's Just Hair

Waiting with LoVe!!!

I can't count how many times I have blogged about these wonderful people and what an impact they have had on my life, and others. They are the Wilbergers.

They are going through the wonderful process of adoption again. That is how they got this little cutie! And we can't wait to get the call that another special baby is on its way to their home. I know that there baby will be meant for their family specifically, and you might be the means of helping it get there, so please check out their blog!

Their button is on my side bar for easy reference in the future!

Dr. John is in the house! AKA Deeken get's stitches!

Sweet little boy was sitting at the island with his little sister. They were laughing and having a good time. About what I am not sure, but the next thing we know DeeKen is on the ground crying. Both John and I kind of get this "serves you right" look on our faces, and then I see the blood.

I'm so glad John was home. When he started talking stitches I was extremely thankful.

He sewed up his Chin with 3 stitches. DeeKen was a champ of all champions! He did amazing.

John has been able to help quite a few people lately with his skills. I like it. Helps me to know he didn't make up the whole "going to medical school story." I like to see him at work, but I would rather it not be on my own kids!

Brithday Celebration!