Last Day of the Month

I'm up, got the kids' lunches packed, teeth brushed and sent them out the door with Ross. This morning I'll have to wear the little girls out so they will take a decent nap today. Sister Dance, our RS President, is going to come over and sit in the house while they are down for naps so I can go play the piano for 30 minutes at the Stake Nativity event. I wish I had more time to practice and prepare. I had great intentions of pulling out music mid-October, planning out the line-up, and going through it, however, being a mom is just so time intense that even with the best intentions I still feel like I'm still not ready. (Much of my practice time during the day was interrupted or joined in with several little hands or at night I was too tired to sit still that long and focus. Plus, my brain power was gone by then and I'd hit wrong notes galore.) Oh well. I'm sure not that many people will be there mid-day on a weekday. And, as Ross told me this morning, you are really good at faking it.

Tonight is my date night -- dinner, a few rounds of Phase 10, editing our Christmas newsletter and Christmas shopping online for the kids. Not the most fun date, but things we need to do together and we haven't had time all week for that. It's been a busy one. Most last weeks of the month seem to be that way.

22.5 Weeks

Still a little skeletal looking. You can see baby's arm and face looking straight ahead on the right side.

• I got to see Cinco today. She is moving around like crazy. Kathy, the sonogram technician, said it only makes sense because she is going to have to catch up to her active brother and sisters and will love playing with everyone. Yes, it does make sense. Her measurements are perfect for 22.5 weeks and her weight is about a 1.5 lbs.
• A trip to Walmart (three Dum Dums x 2 as bribes to keep babes quiet) and two pies delivered.
• Second hard day today for little guy. Lots of talks and it ended with help cleaning every room in the house.
• Fang really upsets a little girl here. He swallowed her Valentine box. She fell asleep quickly tonight.
• Cut the girls' bangs today. They had fun playing at Aubrey's house during my OB visit. They both fell asleep in the car after some long errands.
• We had pumpkin pie for dessert. I had leftover filling so it had no crust, but I baked it in a cake pan and it still tasted yummy. I never liked pumpkin pie until I went to the Thanksgiving Feast at Austin Elementary with Allen last year and they ran out. I was so disappointed that I still crave the flavor. I should like it though -- because of pumpkin pie I was able to get to know Ross a little better for the first time at BYU. Why? His roommate made a pumpkin pie (from an actual pumpkin) and I had to taste it to see if it was any good. It was. Glad I invited myself over for it, something that still shocks me. It must have been meant to be.
• Off to cut Ross's hair. Tonight is the first night he didn't have to pop off after dinner for a previous engagement.

A few funnies and a lesson

Yesterday there were three funnies I wanted to jot down:

1. Hearing Ross tell me about his dream. (Note: Ross hardly ever remembers dreams so this was significant). He said I went to jail because I didn't pay my taxes and then it hit him I would have the baby in jail and he would have to take care of the other four too. The dream probably made me panic but it made me laugh when he told me about it.

2. Hearing Ross sing Abby the Ariel song from "The Little Mermaid" as he helped her get her pink Ariel shirt over her cast.

3. Seeing Abby's new birthday invitation to a princess tea party. I said, "You get to go to a tea party?" in the tone that she was lucky and would have a blast. Then she said, "It's okay Mom. It's not real tea we'll be drinking. It's just pretend." That little 5 year old lesson about the Word of Wisdom was funny to me.

Now that I think about it all those things happened early in the morning before school. Things are more funny to me early or late at night, when I'm tired.

***

Here is Abby's script from the Family Home Evening lesson she taught on Sunday. She chose the theme from the primary gospel standards about being a good friend and being kind and she helped me put it together. She can't read so I gave her the prompts and she did the rest.

Welcome to Family Home Evening!

Opening Song: "I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus" led by Abby.

Opening Prayer: Daddy

Scripture: John 13:34 read by Mommy.

Lesson by Abby--

Friendship and Loving Others

• Q- Who are your friends?
• Picture of Jesus and question for Jane and Emma -- "Who is our Friend in this picture?"
• Story of Lazarus, a friend of Jesus, retold by Abby.
• Q - "How should we treat our friends?" 3 scenarios -- a child wants to join in on play, a new child at school. a teased child -- and answering what we can do to be a good friend.
• Story told by of Clark (from school) spilling his Gatorade and someone helping.
• Sharing -- dividing something or taking turns.
• Singing 3 songs -- "Fun To Do" (sharing my toys, being a friend, being kind verses), "Kindness Begins With me" and "Jesus Said Love Everyone"
• Bear Testimony. Abby said something like "You should love your friends. That's what Jesus taught us to do. We need to be nice and I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

Activity: Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie on Monday night.

Treat: Snack baggies (filled with marshmallows, Skittles, nuts and animal crackers) for the car ride to the Christmas lights.

Everyone Up Early

Everyone got up early today. I went out the door with the twins while Ross finished brushing other kids' teeth and took them to school. The girls and I picked Catherine S. up at the airport. We dropped her home and did an hour shopping trip to Walmart since we were in the area. I ended up buying more than I planned on so I bought as much as would possibly fit on and inside the double stroller, we bought it, I loaded it in the car and we went back in a second time to fill up the stroller again. Once we got home we unloaded the purchases, played, did breathing treatments (both girls have colds), mopped the kitchen and bathroom, had lunch and now the girls are resting. I'm catching up on the online world before I start wrapping a few gifts. I might need to lie down for a quick rest too. My mouth is so sore. We'll pick up Allen and Abby soon from school and then I have two piano lessons later. I'll make taco soup for dinner, we have a bunch of library books to read together, and I have to get everyone to bed a little earlier than last night (9pm -- but that cool light display was worth it, especially because there were no crowds). Ross will be helping with a move tonight.

4 hours and one crown

My morning was crummy and painful. Just check out this post title. Yes, I got a permanent crown and it took 4 hours. It was awful. I got poked, and x-rayed again and again. Drilled, and powdered. I gagged over and over and that yucky residue is still in my mouth. It was awful. I'll take a root canal any day over that. I had Emily, one of my visiting teachers and the girls' nursery teacher, watch the girls and they did great and had fun playing with her son. I can't believe it's time to go pick up the kids from school.

On a happier note, tonight our family is going on a holiday outing for Family Home Evening to see fancy Christmas lights in Grand Prairie. It's the kind of place where you drive through and are amazed. I'm packing treat/snack bags for the kids to munch on. It's gonna be fun.

Tucker Whirlwind

• The "Tucker Whirlwind" as Ross referenced our family to the Bishop went to Tithing Settlement after church. Allen and Abby paid a little tithing this year with money had earned from chores/allowance. We'll have to keep doing that.
• Ross went on a home teaching visit this afternoon. He got a new assignment this month and took Allen with him since his companion couldn't go.
• Abby and I worked on her Family Home Evening lesson for tomorrow night. We are going to see fancy Christmas lights in Grand Prairie for our activity so she is going to do her lesson in the car while we drive.
• Jane and Emma are luckily taking a nap now. (They haven't had one in a few days). Both of those girls loved playing with the water fountain in the church hallway while we waited for our turn to see the Bishop.
• Primary was fun today. It was a rehearsal. We reviewed songs from last year to sing at the Nativity event on Saturday. I pulled leaves off a tree to introduce each song and the teachers passed out stickers, giving the children "Music Measles" (a neon sticker to add to their face), when they sang and participated well. See more details here at my primary blog. When Ross came to the primary room after church he said he saw a lot of "sick" kids in the hallway.

Ten Thanksgivings

We had a good Thanksgiving holiday. I like Thanksgiving. Ross and I have spent 10 Turkey Days together and in those 10 years together we have been in 5 different states, including Utah (2003/2004/2011), Iowa (2005/2006/2007), Virginia (2008/2009), Texas (2010) and Arkansas (2012). It's been so much fun traveling, staying with different families and bonding over a meal and hang-out time.  We have many good memories to look back on in those 10 years.

We had a lot of fun staying with the Shileys. Yesterday we went to the Pea Ridge Military Park (one the first large battlesites in the Civil War), and the War Eagle Mill. Last night after the kids were in bed we played games for a few hours. Cranium was the last one, Ross and I won, and it still made for some laughs today. We've learned that I shouldn't do the humdingers because my mind can go blank, Ross is the awesome star performer, and I'm a cool creative cat doing those sculptures in playdough. We make a great team!

We left Bentonville, AR this morning at about 10am, stopped in McAlester, OK for lunch at Carl's Jr and arrived home at 5pm on the dot. People did great in the car and we listened to three more fun movies. The kids were excited to be in their house again with all their belongings. Ross and I unpacked the car and bags and then I whipped up a quick dinner (lasagna skillet dish). After ice cream for dessert everyone got bathed and into bed. I just finished writing up goals for next week, looking over my calendar and replying to emails. Ross is doing the same thing next to me. (I love our double desk!!)  Now I'm off to iron a pile of clothes that got left on Wednesday when I ran out of time.

Mall Madness

I like to play games. Two of my favorite childhood games are Mall Madness and Sweet Valley High. We played them over and over. I remember playing with neighbor friends, brothers (yes! brothers) and sisters and once with my Dad. My mom and I played Mall Madness for it seemed like hours and we still remember that and laugh about it. It's just lots of fun. In fact I remember when Ross and I were dating we played both of them and he won both games. I hate shopping, but put it in a game, and I'm all over it.

Before we drove to Arkansas I asked Annette if she wanted me to bring any games. She said she wanted Mall Madness and Sweet Valley High, just for old time sake, and she was dead serious. Ross teased, rolled his eyes and managed to fit in those boxes in the back of the van along with our stroller, 2 packs 'n play, two duffel bags, a box of movies/books for Annette, and a box of pies/rolls.

Last night after the kids went to bed, the adults had more dinner/pie and played a game of Dutch Blitz, Annette and I pulled out our favorite girlie games while Caleb went to bed and Ross went online searching for a new camera. Annette and I had a blast! We laughed and enjoyed it, just like years ago (I've had both games for over 20 years and it's moved every place with me, but I haven't played them for probably 5 years), and couldn't believe game sale prices and clearance prices I could almost remember without looking. We played a few times and remembered why we liked the games so much. Each time Ross and I move I am tempted to get rid of them, but last night I was reminded why they are still kicking around. Plus, I have three (almost four) little girls to teach these games to. They are in for a treat. Allen probably wouldn't mind them either :) Good thing Mall Madness comes with boy game pieces too.

***

• Not sure what today's plans are. Hyrum went in for surgery to get tubes placed in his ears. We'll probably go out for an outing today and do more eating and hanging out.
• Jane and Emma both climbed out of their beds yesterday during nap time and were moving about the room and pulling the curtains down while Hyrum was trapped in his bed. Emma got out of her bed over and over last night at bedtime. Not sure what we are going to today for naps. We might have to skip them again.
• Allen and Abby are quietly reading beside me while Ross and the twins are still sleeping.
• Ross did one Black Friday purchase online last night. We have a new camera coming!! Hooray! Hopefully this one last longer than 8 months.

Turkey Day

Yesterday...

--Ross drove a family to the airport at 6am
--a root canal at 8:30am
--packing up and then lunch
--driving to Arkansas while watching movies in the van
--dinner at McDonald's in Oklahoma because of the playland
--temporary crown fell off my tooth (whoops! Permanent one will go on it on Monday)
--arrived at Annette's house
--kids in bed and watching the end of The Princess Bride

Today...

--Happy Turkey Day!
--pancakes and eggs for breakfast
--Ross and Caleb went to play in the Turkey Bowl
--Annette and me stayed with the kids and we made Thanksgiving crafts (turkey bags and Mayflowers for table decorations)
--walk around the block
--soccer in the backyard
--Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving and Mayflower short, started Pocahontas
--Thanksgiving feast cooked by Caleb. I provided rolls and pie and Annette made some pie too.
--Three toddlers down for naps. Not too long after lots of laughing was going on. Jane and Emma climbed out of their beds and pulled down the curtain. Hyrum was still in his bed.
--After some yummy pie the Shileys all took naps. Since we knew Jane and Emma wouldn't take a nap Ross and I took our kids for a ride in the car and ended up at not just one, but three different school playgrounds.
--Soon more food, movie, hanging out and maybe some games once the kids are in bed.

Bad Things

I wrote about the good yesterday so it's time for the bad today, right?

So yesterday was a temporary crown, tomorrow is a root canal at a specialist, due to a curved nerve, and sometime after that I have to go back to my regular dentist for the permanent crown. Lucky me, I know.

But, on the plus side, Ross took Abby to her follow-up appointment this morning before work. Hooray! That saves me more time to put toward laundry, packing and pies and I didn't have to take four kids to a doctor appointment!

***

Here is the script for Allen's Family Home Evening last night. He was in charge of it all and picked the last principle from the primary's "My Gospel Standards" about temples and eternal families to focus on. (There are 12 and we've done 2 of them already.) I used a lesson from an old primary book to help guide us and with Allen's input, this is what we came up with --

"Welcome to Family Home Evening"

Opening Song: "I Love To See the Temple" led by Abby
Opening Prayer: Jane (but Daddy and Emma helped her too!)
Scripture: D&C 97:15-17, read by Dad
Lesson (Script) by Allen --

• Read the last gospel standard: "I will live now to live worthy to go to the temple and do my part to have an eternal family".
• Q: "What can we do to prepare to go to the temple?" (Listen for answers and then show them the answer sheet on page 8 in Primary 1 lesson book).
• Hold picture of the temple -- "What do you think about when you see this picture?" (Wait for answers)
• "The temple is a sacred place. Everyone say the word sacred. That means it's a special place."
• "Now hold up 3 fingers. (Which is a good activity for toddlers). They will help us remember what we do in the temple. #1 In the temple we make promises to Heavenly Father. #2 In the temple we can be married. #3 In the temple we can be baptised for others.
• "What colors are you wearing right now? (wait for answers) What color does everyone wear in the temple? (wait) WHITE Are we loud in the temple? No, we are reverent and we whisper.
• "Our family is sealed forever because of the temple. And I saw these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Activity: Sardines (which Jane and Emma really like playing too!)
Treat: choice of a scoop of ice cream or a popsicle

Good Things

Good things for Momma today --

• I got to go back to bed after Ross left for work while the older two watched some PBS kids. The twins slept in too.
• Errands (with four kids in tow) to the library and Walmart are over.
• All four kids picked out new winter coats for an early Christmas present.
• Allen and Abby picked out several new books to read and keep them occupied today.
• Made a dentist appointment this afternoon to fix my broken molar. A nice lady in my ward is going to come here while the twins nap and the older two watch a movie.
• Purchased all my ingredients and supplies to make more pies.

Thoughts of Mom and Dad

Last night while making pie I thought of my mom. (At thanksgiving she made over a dozen pies.) It was the first time, however, that I had ever made real pie crust. How did it turn out? Awesome. I'm excited to eat it tonight for dessert. I thought it was a great practice for more Thanksgiving pies this week. And, last night, while eating a Starburst, while making pies, I broke a piece of a tooth, a back molar. I thought of my Dad because I remember as a kid that happening to him a few times and he'd go in and see Dr. Isaacson. So the pie made me think of my mom and my tooth made me think of my dad. I miss my parents. They have been in the Dominican Republic for about 2 months now.

Church was good today. The kids were fairly reverent in Sacrament Meeting. I taught three thankful songs in primary as the kids played "Pin the Hat on the Turkey/Button the Feather on the Turkey". Jane and Emma came into the primary room after nursery while I cleaned up my props and Daddy picked up Allen and Abby. Poor Emma conked her head on the sidewalk on the way out and everyone just finished up a snack. Now it's quiet time. The little girls are in their beds listening to a primary tape in their room. Abby is working on a sticker book to a primary CD in her room, Allen is reading in another room and Ross and I are in our room.

Tonight for dinner we are having Sunset Chicken Dish (marinated chicken and rice), salad, peas, rolls and banana cream pie. The kids have no school all week, but there is plenty to keep us busy. First, I've got to get my tooth fixed at some point. I've got to make pies and cheeseball for our Thanksgiving Feast. I want to teach them some of these board games I've got on the shelf (... think Abby is ready to learn Mall Madness or Sweet Valley High? We'll try!) and I know that Allen wants to play Sorry. We are going to Arkansas to spend Thanksgiving with Annette, Caleb and Hyrum. It will be a fun little 6-hour roadtrip.

Fort Worth Botanical Gardens

Today we spent several hours at the many gardens in Fort Worth. We wandered from the main entrance onto the Texas Boardwalk (where we had a picnic lunch surrounded with trees and bird sounds), to the Japanese Gardens (where we feed the koi fish popcorn and got a free cookbook at the end), through the different Rose Gardens and ended back to the main building inside the conservatory where we saw a cool waterfall we could stand under (and not get wet and see huge fish) and saw jungle plants with leaves longer than I am tall. Everyone had a good time. Lots of plants, lots of pathways to explore, lots of bridges. It was a cool place and I'm glad Ross got a Groupon there so we could try it out. Unfortunately we have no camera (it broke two weeks ago and we haven't replaced it yet), but on the happy side for me I don't have pictures to label, post and worry about. Just happy memories of today.

When we got home Ross mowed the front lawn, the kids and I played in the backyard and cleared the patio so it would be swept off and then Abby helped Ross rake up leaves from the front gutter. (We live on the curve of the road so because of wind many, many leaves collect in front of our house). After dinner everyone had baths (Abby's was tricky -- we washed her hair in the sink, covered her cast with two plastic bags and did a sponge bath), I just got back from getting groceries to start making pies tonight and Ross is going out for a run in 50 degree weather.

It's Friday

It's Friday! Most of my goals have been completed for the week so there are no major plans today. I may get ahead for next week and bake more rolls today to freeze or the girls and I might go on a long walk and end up at the park... not sure. I think I'll climb back in bed for a few minutes though and read a little more of the book, Ladies of Liberty, I started yesterday. Tonight is Ross's date night. I'm already excited about the BBQ ribs he'll be bringing home for us. Mmmm!

Jane and Emma, 2 years old

We picked up pictures today for Jane and Emma!

Jane
Love her smile and pointed toes!

Emma
Love her folded hands, pig tails and smile!

Other Tidbits:

• The kids gobbled up the chicken last night and I was left with enough mashed potatoes to make Shepherd's Pie tonight for dinner. I might start making some rolls to freeze for next week. I also need to make two pie crusts.
• Abby did well at her first day of school. While I was fixing dinner she sat at the table and did drawing for a while. At the same time Allen, Jane and Emma were reading books in the TV Room.
• I rushed to the church last night to get something for primary's singing time -- "Pin the Hat on the Turkey" game. One of the counselors had given me to use if I wanted and I needed to open it up and see what was inside so I knew how to do it for Sunday. The reason I rushed to the church is because Ross was meeting with a man in the ward regarding employment. (Ross's church calling is employment specialist).
• I have been reading Faith of Our Mothers and really enjoying it. I got it for Mother's Day and decided it was time to pull it out and be inspired by other faithful mothers. When I finish I will write my own essay about my mother and father.
• It seems I have to keep the kitchen counters clear (from bread, bananas, apples...) or Jane will cry for whatever she sees even though she might have yummy food in front of her. 
• It was so funny yesterday to see Jane give Emma a ride in the stroller. This wasn't our normal stroller. This was the ten dollar baby doll stroller from the store. The girls are small enough to fit in and they gave rides to each other. Usually I distract them, take them out, find them a doll or stuffed animal (because the fabric really isn't made for their 20 lbs+ weight), but yesterday I just watched and laughed at their cute creativity.
• Ross lost his wedding band this morning. I'll have to take a look around today.
• Allen and Abby decided to cash in their banked check marks from the job chart to buy a book from the school's book fair today. Allen is going to get a new Captain Underpants chapter book and Abby wants Silverlicious.
• This morning I mopped the kitchen floor while Jane and Emma observed and buckled in their booster seats in another room. I also mopped the bathrooms. I gave them a piece of candy for each room. They were satisfied with that and so was I, not having to deal with two on the loose and a wet floor. I also made dinner (shepherd's pie), rolls and made a quick trip to Target..

Back to School for Abby

• Abby went to school today. She wore one of Allen's big t-shirts and seems excited to show the class her cast. When I picked up Allen yesterday in the car loop the school counselor, who was helping in her class with testing, popped over to the car to ask about Abby. She was missed. 
• The twins and I will be working on laundry and ironing today.
• Allen and Abby have drama club today after school.
• Yesterday, regarding Abby's broken arm,  we got an email from the Bishop, a phone call from the Relief Society President and the Stake Relief Society President (also in our ward -- the kids took swimming lessons from her son) stopped by with a monkey print pillowcase for Abby ("stop monkeying around") and a box of cowboy cookies. News sure gets around fast! I know Catherine Sawaya is responsible for the two ladies knowing.
• We had hot dogs and chicken salad sandwiches last night. I was the only one that had the sandwiches. I felt like I was at a wedding reception. Mmmm! Tonight I'm baking a whole chicken (it's in the fridge, ready to cook, coated with spices and smelling yummy!) and mashed potatoes.
• It was so cute to hear Ross read the twins a book before bed, two nights ago, it helped them settle down for bed. Catherine read to them last night, did prayers with them, sang with them and put them in bed while Ross and I were helping the other two get ready for bed.
• For Family Home Evening on Monday night we had a lesson about being thankful and made more thankful turkey hands to put on the wall. We save them, add them to the collection and hang them up. It's fun to look back a few years and see what you wrote and see how the kids' hands have changed.
• Since we call Baby #5 Cinco, on Monday evening I started calling the others their birth number order in Spanish. Emma is my Quatro, Jane is Tres, Abby is Dos (or Ross said we should do two in Portuguese because it sounds cooler) and Allen is Uno, like the card game.
• I busted open my maternity box today. I'm just over 20 weeks now so I guess it's about time. These clothes are sure more comfortable.

School Day #2 With Broken Arm

Abby wanted to stay home one more day. She can do most things by herself now, but is still really cautious and moves/walk REALLY slow. We'll let her rest up one more day at home and then, hopefully head back to school tomorrow. Ross is off to work today and they are finishing up a trial. Allen left for school after trying a star shaped donut and half a chocolate one. (I did a BIG grocery shopping trip last night to cover supplies for the next 10 meals and I saw the half-price box of donuts. I couldn't resist it for today's breakfast.) My goals for today include rotating the toys in the toy room, practicing piano and prepping two meals for future dinners. Abby is watching PBS kids and the twins are still asleep. Hopefully I can do lots of work in the kitchen before I'm needed again for a while.

Veteran's Day

Ross had the day off work. He's been doing errands and helping here at home. I love it!
Andrea enjoyed lunch (Arby's) with Daddy and the girls at the park.
Allen went to school. We drove by and the school grounds are covered with flags.
Abby stayed home today and is getting more confident at moving around and doing things.
Jane loved "flying" (riding on her tummy) on the swing at the park.
Emma is a little squealer and had fun running around the playground and going backwards down the slide.

Broken Arm

Abby broke her arm yesterday. It was 5pm and we all had driven to our nearby school to play on the toys before we went back home for dinner. All the kids got out of the van and ran to the toys and I spent a minute picking up books and trash. As I headed to the toys I saw Abby fall off a small tunnel from a distance. After a few minutes of screaming (Abby said her arm was broken) and holding her on my lap and seeing her limp arm, Ross and I decided to take her the hospital. We all headed home (it was hard to coax the twins to get back in the van because we'd only been to playground less than ten minutes) and Ross and I quickly packed a bag (with dinner, snacks, computer, movies, Tylenol, ice packs) that they could take to the hospital. Ross said he thought of his mom going to the hospital and saying, "pack a bag!"

I stayed with the other three, fed them and put them in bed. Catherine offered to come and sit so I could be at the hospital too. I knew there would be lots of waiting so I declined her offer but she came over still to give me some company and we colored and watched a few episodes. Ross gave updates whenever there were any. After x-rays and seeing the position of the break they wanted Abby to go in an ambulance to the Children's Hospital in Dallas. When I talked to Abby on the phone she told me she laid in a bed in the ambulance and got to watch Despicable Me on the ride there. Ross followed in our Camry. Abby got to ride in a wheelchair, watched several movies throughout the night and her shirt cut off when they were putting the cast on. Her break was up high on the arm (the bone had broken and then overlapped on each other) that there was no way to cast on the position. The doctor explained that the muscle was so tight that it was holding the bones overlapped. They were hoping after several days the muscle would tire out and the bones would slide back. So the options were having a sling for 5 days or having a cast to stabilize the bottom part of the arm, offer weight and pull that tightened muscle. Abby came home with Ross at 3:30am (she had never fallen asleep) with a cast and hospital gown on (because they cut off her shirt). Ross said she had to sleep sitting up (so gravity could help with the healing) so we moved the recliner into her bedroom and she slept there. She cried throughout the night in pain and in the morning she REALLY wanted to go to church. Just getting her dressed though wore out both her and Daddy and they ended up staying home. Abby has a hard time moving and is still in a lot of pain. This week is going to be hard with three "toddlers" at home that will need lots of help. All I can say is I am SO glad Ross was there at the school playground with us and we had driven there. And I'm really glad Ross has tomorrow off work for Veterans Day.

Rockledge Rumble

• Ross left at 6am for a race in Grapevine this morning.
• Emma woke up next, at 6:30am, and kept me company in my bed for the next hour as I tried to go back to sleep and she kept climbing on me. I can feel Cinco moving now. It's so cute to feel the little baby bumps inside my tummy.
• Allen and Abby read books and quietly played. In fact, Allen has read three chapter books today.
• Jane got the most sleep and woke up with the most energy, especially to wear her Peter Pan costume (a satin green piece I made that she likes wearing over her clothes) and run around the backyard barefoot with everyone else.
• We met Ross at the end of his race. I got lost a few times but we made it. (The last race I met him at was the DC Marathon. This one was much smaller and not marked at all.) He finished sooner than he thought he would. He shared some of the runner's food with us -- muffins and quesadillas (which had American cheese and out of all the kids, only Emma would eat it. Ross says I spoil them with Cheddar cheese. He's right. I do).
• While the kids are quiet in their rooms I'm working on some projects -- laminating file folder pieces and sorting books/music -- while talking to Annette on the phone.
• Guess who refused to nap? Little Miss Emma who woke up at 6:30am this morning. Still Ross is sore and no one feels like doing much, we are going to have a family afternoon movie party soon to watch Shrek 2. Jane is still asleep but she will join us soon.

First Dentist Visit

• Jane and Emma did awesome at the dentist. How do they work on a 2 year old? you wonder. (I did too because I didn't take Allen or Abby to the dentist until they were 3). They had me sit in the chair, pivot the chair to the side, have one of the girls sit on my lap (facing me) and then lay back on the pad, sitting on the dentist's lap. The dentist said he liked it that way because they were on their mom's lap and we could both look in their mouths while he worked on them. He checked their teeth, cleaned their teeth (I told them it was "tickling their teeth") and then put fluoride on their teeth, of which I called it "painting your teeth", because he put a little coat on with a small brush. While one was on my lap the other was standing nearby, holding the "turkey balloon" (a medical glove blown up with a face drawn on) they were given and watching. I was surprised at how well they did, cooperating and not moving. They got little bags after with several prizes including a new toothbrush, a giant sticker, a ring and two necklaces. I made an appointment for 6 months for them and will take Allen and Abby there in a month. As I was leaving the dentist said that if everyone does so well (like they did today) I could bring all four at the same time. Little does he know that I will be bringing all four in a month, but just two will have to get up on the chair.
• As today starts all items on my "to do" list / goals this week have been crossed off. Looks like today I'll be able to spend all my attention to the girls, completely. Maybe we'll play at a park or do an art project. Depends on what they are interested in doing. Any extra time I do have will be spent at the piano working on one of my piano solos for my Nativity performance in a few weeks.
• It's never a good thing when you wake up with a blood sugar in the 300s, realizing your insulin pump ran out of insulin at 1am and knowing it must have alarmed repeatedly, but you didn't know because you are just so darn good at turning it off in your sleep. Sometimes Ross will wake me up because he hears the siren alarms, but he didn't hear anything either.  Whoops.  I went to bed with a stomach ache and this morning I have major body heaviness ache. Hopefully my high blood sugar will come down soon. Maybe it's a good thing I don't have to get anything done today.
• It's grandparents day at school. I told the kids sorry that their grandparents don't live closer, but that the girls and I would be bringing them a treat after school to look forward to.
• Tonight is date night and I'm in charge. Catherine is kind enough to come tend so we can go out. We'll be grabbing a bite to eat on our way to the temple. 
• It's so cute to do scripture reading with the kids. Allen can read his verse on his own (and he has since about Kindergarten), Abby repeats phrases we say, and now Jane and Emma get excited joining in on  a verse. You read a few words at a time and they both repeat words back. It is adorable. So we'll each read of verse of the Book of Mormon and then a chapter of the kids' illustrated scripture story manuals. We are reading the New Testament one now. The kids still like how we light a candle and the prayer day person gets to blow it out at the end of family scripture time.  

First Date Memories

I forgot to write this earlier on today's post...

Yesterday marked the 10 year anniversary of our first date. Ross picked me up at my apartment and we walked over to the HFAC building on BYU campus. We saw a concert by the Utah State Symphony and then he walked me home. As Ross says it wasn't the most fun date and we both laughed as we thought of the loud, breathing and dancing conductor. Last night I even pulled out my journal to read a little of my impressions of that night -- I was excited to go out with Ross because I had had my eye on him for a while. I had felt comfortable talking to him and we had a good time, even though he struck out on three of my dumb rules -- height, mission title and last name letter. (I'm glad he got up to bat again.) I wasn't his only date that week. No, sirree. I was Miss Thursday and he had a date with a Miss Friday and a Miss Saturday. Of all three I was the only girl he had asked at again, which happened to be the following Friday, to a sports fun center in Orem. Ahhh! Memories. Journals are awesome to read ten years later.

Caught Off Guard

While Ross and I were getting ready this morning we heard some strange, distant music. Ross opened our door to go check and said it had stopped and sounded like an ice cream truck. I said, "how many ice cream trucks drive around at 6:30am?" We heard it again about 10 minutes later and Ross brought in Catherine's phone. Uh oh! She was here last night and it must have fallen out of her purse on her way out. I checked my email and there were two from her about her phone. Whoops. The twins have their first dentist appointment this morning. (I'm curious how they will do). After we finish there we will stop at Catherine's workplace and pass off her phone.

And, another thing this morning that caught me off guard, I went in to get the girls from their beds. They had been up for a bit but were just happy and talking. I waited until their voices sounded more like, "mommy. Come get me. I'm ready to get out!" I walked in and both girls were completely naked and their beds were wet. Right now two girls are in the tub and a load of wash is going.

It's Over

• So ends the election. I have to admit I was disappointed in some of those battleground states that seemed like they would be closer or swing red. Our chip party was fun and one we'll have to repeat. After results were shown I posted on Facebook: "Okay, Romney. Time to turn in those mission papers."
• Guess what Ross found in his shoe yesterday morning? A cockroach. A big, red one. He put his foot in his shoe and felt the resistance, like the lining was coming off. Yuck! Looks like I'll be double-checking before I put one of my shoes on.
• Yesterday I got the toys sorted/rotated in the toy room. I'm trying the rule, "use it or lose it". I've thrown out some stuff and given other stuff away, just to keep things fresh and fun. We still have lots of toys though, most from thrift stores or yard sales. And the kids love them, especially when they are put away for a while and brought back again.
• Ross is on day 3 of a trial. I've helped him and the kids get out the door a tad earlier to beat some of the traffic. Seems to have worked the last few days.
• It's a busy day today. I'm working on dinner to take to a family (tater tot casserole, crescent rolls, salad and chocolate chip cookie bars), plus it's laundry/ironing day. Unfortunately the twins got up about 2 hours earlier than normal so those tasks are going to be a little harder. Luckily, thanks to drama club, I don't have to pick the older two up so early after school. Maybe the twins can get a good nap in.

Election Day, 12 Years Ago

Twelve years ago from today, it was a Monday. I was being transported from Price, Utah to Layton, Utah by my mother with my blood sugar in coma range. I was rushed into the hospital where I was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes. I recall being in the ICU, thoughts in a whirlwind, while drinking a diet Sprite (yuck!) and thinking, "What exactly is diabetes? Could I ever eat a Snickers again or drink a regular Sprite? Would anyone want to marry me now? Would I be able to have any kids?" I was completely overwhelmed.

The following day was election day and two annoying things happened. First, it was the first presidential election I was old enough to vote in and I was stuck in a hospital (so, boo, for not being able to vote). And, second, there was nothing on TV that day or days following (I was in the hospital a few days) except talk of the election. If you remember, due to the ballot problem in Florida, they didn't know the winner for a while. So, no voting for me, and nothing to watch on TV in the hospital for days. It was annoying.

Now fast forward 12 years until today. It's election day again. I voted last week (with twins in tow) so that's all taken care of. My blood sugar is in good control (I've learned I can eat whatever I want, just as long as I do the math and count the carbohydrates and keep my levels in normal range -- in fact I ate Snickers yesterday and drank Root Beer too), I got married to an amazing man who can overlook my chronic disability, I'm pregnant with our 5th child (with my health, every one of them is a miracle), and there still isn't much on TV.

Tonight in honor of election day we are going to do what I remember doing growing up. We'll watch the results while eating chips and dip. (Mom, siblings... remember that? I do.)  Allen and Abby are excited for our party and that they get to stay up a little later. I have some french onion dip, crinkle chips and I'm also going to have tortilla chips with fresh southwestern pico de gallo. Let's just hope the results are final today so we don't have to wonder for days who won, much like the election 12 years ago.

Looking Back

Looking back on Monday...

• Emma got her 2 year pictures taken at Target. She wasn't very smiley. In fact, she was kind of shy with the photographer, but there were a few good ones to choose a package from. Once we were done we did a little more shopping and I managed to squeeze all our purchases in and around the stroller. Two cashiers were completely impressed as they gave the twins Target stickers.
• School gets out just after 3pm and we didn't get home until 5pm. Why? The kids had so much fun playing on the playground and interacting with others. When all other friends left Abby and the girls made "acorn soup" (gathering acorns to put in a hole in the ground), while Allen did some "shiny rock" digging on his own. We have a backyard but the school grounds sometimes are more fun to play in. On the way home we had popcorn for a snack, talked about what was going to be happening the next few days (Family Home Evening tonight, election party tomorrow -- Allen and Abby mentioned Mitt Romney. I just listened. They recently had their own school elections. Allen thinks Romney should win because Obama has already been president. "Romney should get a chance." It was cute to hear the reasoning of a seven year old.) and headed home. Both Allen and Abby had a piano lesson with me.
• Ross taught a wonderful Family Home Evening lesson tying in "using our words" (something little people have been struggling with here) into the story of the Brother of Jared. He prepared in just a few minutes and I was amazed at the connection he gave. It will be great to use that this week to remind people instead of requesting help right away, to think it through first and then ask us what they need in a sentence.
• Catherine came over for dinner, Family Home Evening, and project time.  Two more episodes and we finish the season. I worked on some coloring for primary. Ross went out for a run. His marathon is Saturday.

Fumes in the Building

We received an urgent email this morning about our church meetings. They were encouraging everyone to attend meetings at the Stake Center or other building in the stake because of the strong fumes in the building due to the refurbishing going on. They also asked for everyone to contact families they visit/home teach. I actually got 2 phone calls and Ross got 2.

No regular church meeting meant no primary (too bad I was completely prepared and will have save the lesson for a substitute next month) and we would be driving 20 minutes to the stake center to sit in the back of another ward's Sacrament Meeting. But that also meant we were done with church earlier in the day. Ever since general conference we have been to our meeting every other week -- General Conference, Coppell 1st ward, Stake Conference, Coppell 1st ward, "Fume" Conference... is what Ross called it today... back to the Coppell 1st ward next week.

Other Tidbits:

• Jane and Emma wore new birthday dresses today to church that they got from Catherine Sawaya. Also, they carried in stuffed monkeys, another birthday present from Grandpa Tucker, that they adore and put them on their lap at the beginning of the meeting. There were two baby blessings today. The first baby was a girl and they named her Emma Jane -- we like those names!!
• Abby had a hard time in meeting today. She came home and had reverent practice on a chair.
• Allen has already read most of the books I've checked out of the library. He liked the one about Harry Houdini, another one about a boy solving a mystery of the Mona Lisa, and now he's reading a few books about Greek Mythology.
• Having Taco Ring dish (crescent rolls formed in ring and filled with cheese, green onions and taco meat) tonight for dinner. For dessert we'll have more of my birthday cake. We've only eaten about 1/4 of it.
• Last night we had a lot of fun playing games with Amber, Stephen, Brennan and Elizabeth. People brought yummy snacks and there was plenty to munch on while we visited. We only played two games (Apples to Apples and Bohnanza or also called "The Bean Game") but they lasted until after 11pm. It was fun. We had our kids in bed and Brennan and Elizabeth put their baby boy Wesley in our room (we set up a pack 'n play) to sleep while we played games. In the morning Allen and Abby, eager to play with the baby, asked if Wesley was still here because they saw the bed still up. They were disappointed when I said he went home last night.

Dallas World Aquarium

This morning we could to celebrate part two of my birthday: going to the aquarium downtown and having street tacos after for lunch.

I REALLY liked the aquarium. It was better than I thought it would be. I've been to several -- Seattle, North Carolina, Chicago, Washington D.C., Houston -- and this was cool and different than all the others. It started as a giant rainforest (think of the Mayan in Salt Lake, but real with animals) all over and around you, no cages, or at least it didn't feel like there were. It seemed very natural and real. We enjoyed spending time watching little monkeys jump/run around, feeding large birds blueberries, sitting in the shark/ray tunnel area and watching them eat (slurp up squid and shrimp), checking out the bats and other creatures behind glass, seeing large fish/turtles, ducks swim all around under the huge waterfall, learning about new fish (like the flashlight fish with glowing eyes) and seeing fish from different parts of the world in separate tanks, observing a worker dressed as a scuba diver cleaning a tank... not only was it an aquarium, it was also a rainforest zoo. We all had a good time. And, unfortunately, our camera broke last night so I have no pictures, just video on our camera.

After leaving the aquarium we had a picnic lunch at Fuel City tacos and saw the longhorns nearby resting. Those tacos are SO GOOD! Ross packed the kids sandwiches because they don't really like tacos. Then we took a detour around the city, first crossing the new bridge going to Oakcliff and then passing under the new Klyde Warren park, which sits above a busy interstate. Yes, above.

On the way home we stopped in Las Colinas and saw the Mustang sculptures we have heard about. We climbed around them and the fountain, watching a limo stop there and whole wedding party emerge for pictures.

Right now Ross is mowing the lawn and the kids (older two) and I are going to mop the kitchen and wipe off all the chairs. We have company coming tonight: Ross's co-clerks and their spouse/fiance. We are going to have dessert/snacks and play games.

Think Pink!

She'll arrive mid-March.

Baby Cinco is a girl. Yes, that's right. That makes four girls in a row, which is exactly how it was growing up in my family: two boys followed by four girls. Now I have my own Little Women cast... and Allen can be Laurie :) , or course, before the characters grow up.

I immediately thought of four future mothers I was raising (a little overwhelming responsibility), which influence generations to come. Ross brought up how many weddings we'll have to pay for. Ross told his co-workers. They said our bathroom would be really busy in a few years. Yes, I know how that is being in a family of four girls. I usually ended up doing my hair in the hallway or in my bedroom. But they are going to be great sisters and friends! I know how that is too.

From ultrasound measurements Cinco is super active and about 9 oz. She is healthy in every way and since everything looks so good (especially my blood sugars) the doctor is letting me go 4 whole weeks without another return visit.

Tonight I'll wrap up some pink colored Tootsie rolls in aluminum foil and have the kids unwrap it to find out the gender. I already know Allen is going to be majorly disappointed -- all along he has wanted a baby brother -- but I know he'll love the baby just the same. Abby is going to say, "I was right!" because she predicted girl when I asked a few days ago and then reminded me that when Jake and Amy had their ultrasound and most people were guessing a boy, she said it would be a girl. Yes, she's been right two times now. Either she is a great little predictor or she's been lucky. Jane and Emma have no idea. I told them they were going to have another sister... they tried to say "sister," but they are in that cute stage when they have no clue. When I tell them there is a baby in my tummy, they point to their tummy. Jane lifts up her shirt. Then when I say, "no the baby is INside my tummy, " then Jane lifts up my shirt. They are precious!

Here's her little foot. Reminds of the girlie pink foot graphic above.
It's kind of blurry -- baby was moving a lot!

18 weeks, 5 days. About 9 oz.
Here is her profile. Again kind of fuzzy because baby was very active. Most have loved those Cheerios I had for breakfast.

Candy Sorter

• Allen got up early yesterday to sort his candy before school. He made three piles --- one for toys or non-edible items, one for candy he doesn't like (Twizzlers, Almond Joy, raisins, pretzels) and one for candy he likes. The candy he likes fills up almost half the bottom of a large apple box. He tells me that he is only going to have a few pieces of day though so it lasts a long time!
• The twins had their 2 year old wellness visit yesterday. Emma (25 lbs, 3oz) is heavier than Jane now (24 lbs, 13 oz.) and is almost an inch taller. They got their flu shot so now every member of the family has taken care of their flu shot this season.
• Halloween stuff is put away. I managed to fit two boxes into one. Meaning I got rid of some things and packed it even better. Too bad I just found our holiday cups in the cupboard that I forgot about.  It was kind of nice seeing a bare fireplace mantel and walls. Ross quickly pulled out the Thanksgiving box. He said the bare room made it look like we were moving. The kids will be excited to see the Thanksgiving village once I pull it out and set it up.
• Last night while clearing up a pile on my desk and filing things away I found an extra voting ballot from the library. This wasn't an official voting ballot, a ballot for kids 11 and under to vote for president. The candidates listed (with pictures) were Obama, Romney, and Duck (as in the book Duck For President). I didn't tell them anything. Allen and Abby both went into the kid booth, voted and put their paper in the slot. They both told me they voted for Romney, which made me smile. I thought they might select "Duck" because they like that book.  
• Ross took Abby to CiCi's Pizza last night for her softball team party. She earned a trophy. I made Zuppa Toscana, to go with rolls, for the rest of us here. Allen saw the soup and said, "I love this!" I figured he was referring to the sausage and bacon in it. While he was eating it he asked, "what is this green stuff?" "Kale," I replied, hoping he would eat it and not sort it out. "I love kale. Does it give it the great taste?" "Yep, sure does." :)
• Emma went to bed without her Soothie (pacifier) last night. First time. At her appointment the doctor said that 2 was the magical age to cease use. I asked her how she did it with her kids and she gave me two scenarios -- 1) have child throw them in the trash and reward them for a lollipop with each one tossed/watch the garbage man take the trash/wave at the trash the next tim you pass, or 2) you just can't find it at bedtime. Well, I made up my own option and just blamed the doctor. "Sorry Emma. We can't use the Soothie anymore. The doctor said no." Emma seemed fine with that, surprisingly as I handed her a washcloth and closed the door, then a few minutes later she cried really loud. I let her go on for about 5 minutes and then I went to check. She was upset that one of her socks fell off, an idea that Jane started, requesting socks at bedtime. I put it back on, I noticed the washcloth (Jane loves those so I gave Emma one) was tucked up in her mouth. Looks like she'll adapt. She actually slept last night -- just like any Soothie-using night.
• Catherine came over for some project time. She colored some file folder stuff and I did the cutting. We got one episode in and Ross went out for his long run.
• Before bed I planned out primary music for the month of November and all my visuals are ready and in order. I just have one more prop to find for Sunday -- my world globe beach ball. We are learning "Called To Serve" and I wanted the ball for the phrase, "Far and wide we tell a Father's story". I might have to settle for some scriptures and a picture of the world. I made a megaphone (nothing fancy, just out of scratch colored paper. It took about 7 minutes) covered with hearts for the phrase, "Far and wide his LOVE PROCLAIM". Ross got back from a long run and I showed him. "Aren't you creative," he told me.
• Going to find out Cinco's gender this morning... appreciate Tiffany, my awesome visiting teacher, for watching my girls. Very anxious for more news on this little one.

Happy Halloween!

The girls enjoyed their new birthday bikes indoors yesterday. They also wore new matching purple outfits.

Riding in our front entryway.

Emma

Jane

Now they are in the back entryway.

Ross brought home corndogs for dinner (Sonic was doing a 50 cent deal for Halloween), Catherine stopped by to see the costumes and do a little trick-or-treating with us, and we went up half the street and back. Then the Oompa Loompas went home with Daddy, took a bath and went to bed, while Allen and Abby emptied their bag, we went back out, and we finished the other side of the street and back. We arrived home again, they emptied their bag, and they wanted to do another street past our alleyway. We went up and back that and then they were ready to go in the car with Ross and see a neighborhood where Daddy home-teaches because that family says they never get many trick-or-treaters. Of course, our street doesn't get many trick-or-treaters. One house on the end thanked us for coming, saying they rarely get any. After Ross got the babies in bed and turned our porch light on, he only had one group stop by. When he was gone with the older two I only had one group stop by too. No wonder why people on our street give our handfuls of candy.


The kids' stamina was more than I would have imagined and they got oodles of candy, especially the twins. I remember as a kid getting one Smartie at a house, one Dum-Dum or one Tootsie-Roll. Fun size candy bars were rare and you never picked out your candy. People just put the item in your bag. Now people have a platter of goods, bend down so kids can pick and more than often they request the child gets more than one. But if you are Jane and Emma if you stand there long enough, the people will throw in an extra one or two more because you are just so darn cute! Or they won't mind if you keep picking up candy and putting them in your pumpkin over and over. We got lots of compliments on the costumes again. In fact, one woman who had passed out candy had sent her husband out (he missed us) while we were at the next house. He walked all the way over to see our costumes because his wife said he just HAD to see them. It was kind of funny.

I do have to say that I love living in a place where you don't have to wear a coat over your costume. Most Halloweens in Utah were cold and I remember having to wear a coat and then people didn't really know what you were. I wore sandals last night walking around. It was awesome.

Right after getting hair and make-up done.
Ready to go out, but not ready to look at the camera.

Jane just got hair and make-up done too.

This was taken after all the trick-or-treating ended.

This was right before Abby took a bath. She has a piece of candy in her mouth. Her make-up quickly wore off when she had to scratch her face that night.

Out trick-or-treating.
Jane is pointing at the bat lights at the next house.
She got so excited all throughout.
Emma and Jane were so distracted with all the decorations, epsecially Emma.
Of all the four kids, she was the one that lagged behind the most.

Ready for someone to open the door.