Just browsing

I was just browsing some blogs while searching for a recipe...I stumbled across a friend's post about flying. She had a link...and if I knew how to post links, I would...to Stephanie Nielson's story on MormonMessages on YouTuble called My New Life. It was touching. It was inspiring. It made me cry...like the movie Charly. It was beautiful.

Fun family pictures...from August

I finally got some pictures of our wild west experience blogged. We had these done in West Yellowstone in August. The kids had a blast and I think that Troy and I had a good time, too.

Allergies or sick?

Last night Troy and I decided to take a break from life and got to dinner and Harry Potter. It was fun and, besides the fact we missed half of the movie due to potty breaks, we enjoyed ourselves. Rule of thumb? NEVER drink six glasses of water and eat Chinese food before a LONG movie. I always get thirsty when I eat Chinese...the people in front of us at the movies probably thought we were going our to get high or something with as many trips as we both made...and the bathroom was across the theater. I almost didn't make it twice!! Anyway, to the point. This morning at about 5:30 Tevan started wheezing and coughing. He woke up to tell me he had ucky coughs. I knew he was not sleeping well, so I got up, filled and plugged in the humidifier, covered him up with his great new snuggie and laid by him for a couple hours. He tossed, turned and coughed. I laid there thinking, "Great, a sick child for the holidays? Really?" But after laying there a bit longer, I started to realize that every time we go to my grandma's (who had a cat) he gets sick. Every time he gets around cats or other furry critters, he gets sick. (with the exception to dogs) Lat night we had some great friends watch the boys. They have rabbits. I think he may be following in Danielle's and my mom's footsteps: allergic to animals. I sure hope not. Benedryl makes my kids and husband go crazy, so I cannot give that to him. I am not sure what it is. I have no idea. Today he seems a bit better, whiny due to the lack of sleep, but better. So, tonight I will see how he does. I hope he is not sick, it is not fun to be sick on the holidays. I feel bad for him. Poor Tevan, it's been a rough time for him lately.

Sweet sixteen

Today I went to the doctor thinking I was 15 weeks, but he informed me that I was 16 weeks and that on January 18 at 1:30, I will find out if my baby is a boy or a girl. This is exciting for me. Tevan didn't like the doctor's office much...he declared that he hates babies. However, he said that I was good so that I got a candy. What a funny kid!

I have felt okay lately. Last night was a bad night...I was very sick to my stomach, tired, emotional, and kinda blue. I have overwhelming feelings sometimes. I have a lot to do before Christmas, before tax season, before this baby comes and before the summer hits with all of it's demands. One day at a time is what my motto should be, but I am not that personality to do that. I want it done, period. I want to get it off my list and out of my overstressed brain.

This past Saturday we had the Smith Christmas parties. Saturday night my brothers came to my house for a rockin' partay. This was fun to visit and open gifts. I got a really neat picture and some bath soap and lotion from Justin and Hailey. Troy got a neat spot light thing from Jess and Carlie, Daeson received a Star Wars Lego set from Jaxon, and Brooke gave Tevan a Lightening McQueen snuggie. We had good food and happy spirits. Brooke spent the night, that doesn't happen, ever. We had a good time with her. We took her to Primary and sang to her. She even got to sing with the Primary kids in Sacrament Meeting. Everyone knew she was my niece...some even thought she was my daughter. We were glad she got to stay the night with us. We don't get to see them often enough.

Sunday we went to Pocatello to visit. We saw Aunt Virginia and Darrold and Grandma and Grandpa Lish. We had a great visit...but they are never long enough. We were headed to Aunt Lindy and Uncle Ron's, but they live by the ski hill and the roads were not permitting. So, we will visit them soon. At Dee's we had good food and great company. I even got adventurous and tried Uncle Kip's bbqed meat...what kind of animal you ask??? After I ate it, swallowed it, and declared that it was pretty good, they told me it was cougar. Yup, I ate cat. I am not sure how to feel about this...but to be honest, it wasn't bad. We played fun games and had a lot of good laughs when it came to the home videos...I think I was 12 and got a glance of how I acted...I was kinda a brat. I was shocked even at some of the things I said and how I acted. I didn't even know those videos existed. The roads were good and we made it home in good time.

Last night we went to a live nativity. This is always a fun family tradition. I didn't get any pictures...surprised? But we had a great time. We even got to see our old dog, Kai, who is now Tugger. This made Daeson's day. He was on cloud nine. What a great family home evening...or as Tevan calls it "Flamly Home Namename." I love it! I started feeling ill yesterday afternoon and had to take medication all day. I was certainly glad I took it on the way to the nativity as it is held in a real stable. The smell was intense, but the setting was so authentic. It made me realize how amazing and wonderful Mary must have been. What an experience she must have had. I bet Joseph shed some silent tears as well, for how could he take this strong and amazing woman into a stable to give birth to the Son of God? I definitely pictured the stable last night as we sat on straw bales watching this historical event acted out. Moving, just moving.

My Christmas list piles up...neighbor treats are probably not happening this year. Sewing for Christmas Eve is supposed to be happening right now...and the laundry and house work falls behind every day. Sigh...............Oh well. That is all I can say for now. Christmas cards will be mailed today. One thing off the list. Presents are in order and Tevan's Woody doll came in the mail yesterday. Stockings have the items purchased to be stuffed and the bows are all in place.

Tevan plays amazingly well by himself and I enjoy the times that he and Daeson are separated because that means they are not fighting. This happens a lot lately...about everything!!!! I hear, thump...screaming...then the famous phrase, "I'm telling on you!!". Everyday...at least five times we go through this routine. They are angels when they are sleeping and when they are by themselves, but put them together and they fight and bicker about EVERYTHING! Maybe it is the age...maybe it is the fact they have a lot of free time and not enough constructed activities to keep them busy. Who knows? Not event he threat about Santa not coming works. With only 4 days until Christmas, they better be on their best behavior!

Countdown until Christmas

Every year I do the 12 days of Christmas for the boys. I used to do it for Troy, but it got too hard to figure out the 12 days. After 10 years, I quit. I will go back to doing this for him after the kids are grown. This year, because of the lack of ability to go out, I am not doing this for the boys this year. I am kinda sad, and since the countdown has begun, I sorta miss this tradition. I also realized that I have lost track of when Christmas is. Today is the 16th. It is Thursday. I have something planned every day until Christmas...every day. There is not one spare moment. I still have so many things to do...I am afraid I will not get everything done. The bad part is that some of these tasks need to be done by Saturday and some by Sunday. Others don't have to be done until Christmas Eve...but even then I am not sure if I can accomplish all of that. I have an apron to make, pj bottoms for the boys and Troy for Christmas Eve, goodies to bake and chocolates to dip. I have a couple more gifts to wrap and I still have to purchase something for Troy. Any ideas??? I still have cards to send, parties to plan, and a house to clean. Sigh...I love the holidays, but man they are busy.

Tevan's last preschool day was today until Jan 4. This is fun to have him home, but a bit more time consuming. Daeson gets out of school Wednesday. He is ready for Christmas. He is excited for Christmas. He went shopping last night with Grandma Blue. I guess he asked her if Santa was real...really? At age FIVE???? Shhesh! I did not find out until I was TWELVE!!! That is right. I was devastated. I still love the magic of Santa. I still love that he is a part of Christmas. I love that I can threaten my children to be good because of him!

So on this 16th day of December and only 8 days to get everything done, good luck to all of you who are still preparing and running behind...I hope I am not the only one on a sinking ship!!! :) Merry Christmas to all of you...I am off to sew some pjs and an apron.

Tevan's fetish

Tevan has a fetish with Toy Story 3. He has no ides his Grandparents got it for him for Christmas, and I know he will be overjoyed. Well, last night I told Tevan I had the Toy Story 3 Barbie in my old toys...you know, the one with the nice leg-warmers? I actually have two of them. We got them our of storage today. I also got Ken out. Tevan is so happy right now. I never thought Barbies would make my son happy, but they did!!! It is so funny to me to watch him play with Buzz, Ken, Barbie, Mr and Mrs Potato Head and pretend he is acting out the movie. You make me so happy, Tevan! I love you so much!!!

Survival

I am surviving...I am actually doing quite well of late. I am taking the max amount of Zofran some days, but some days I do not have to take anything at all. I am officially 14 weeks and this baby is growing...or according to my expanding waistline it is growing. I have taken to the treadmill lately and I love the burn after a couple miles with an incline of six percent with some leg squats thrown in. I forgot how much I like to exercise and I am grateful that I am able to now. I also am able to eat a variety of foods. I still don't do a lot of red meat but chicken and pork seem to taste well. Sweets are still out of the question. I could not even attempt an eggnog milkshake the other night. How sad is that. It is what I crave 10 out of 11 months and now that I can have it, I cannot stomach it. Go figure. However, I am trying to regain my role as a mom and a house keeper. This still makes my stomach turn but I can at least keep up. I am grateful. Troy is grateful. My kids are grateful.

Christmas cards have consumed some time this year. I am behind as I usually have them done by Thanksgiving. I also usually have my shopping done and wrapped by the very latest Thanksgiving. This is still not completed. I have a couple of things to pick up for Troy and the boys need to get something for each other. We have a lot of parties coming up and busy days ahead. The kids and I read a Christmas story every night before Christmas starting Dec. 1. This is a fun tradition that we have done for quite some time. This year we also did the countdown for the Friend. The boys have enjoyed this, although there are some days we have forgotten and had to catch up. Tevan and Daeson are handling the fact they are not allowed to touch the presents under the tree. I thought for sure Tevan would cave, but after the first couple days he didn't even pay attention to them.

We will be posting some fun pictures soon. I promise. We have the nativity, gingerbread houses, my family Christmas party, the Smith family Christmas part, the Harris family Christmas party and a primary activity coming up. I am not sure if Daeson's school does anything for Christmas, but Tevan's preschool always has a fun party. This is always exciting. The kids have a blast.

I cannot believe Christmas is less than two weeks away. Sigh. I haven't done any baking yet and I still haven't prepared anything for friends and neighbors. Peggy leads us every year in homemade chocolate making, but I am not sure it is going to get done this year. I hope so because I love it, but we are quickly running out of time. Merry Christmas!

Doing it on my own

Well, my mom left yesterday after a week of being here. It was so great to spend time with her. Fortunately there were a few days that I felt good enough to do a little shopping. So, I will back up (mostly for journaling purposes so I don't forget) and share her stay.

Thursday after she got here, we traveled to Rexburg for a small Thanksgiving dinner at Grandma Grover's. There were not a whole lot of us there, but it was great to visit and enjoy each other's company. Troy's uncle married a lady from Inkom who lived right by my mom. So, they got to chat a bit and catch up. After dinner, I started feeling queasy so I kept eating my B-Natal suckers from the doctor and we braved the movie theater. We all enjoyed the movie Tangled but we were forced to sit in the front seats due to lack of seating. I had no idea that many people go to the movie on Thanksgiving!!! The boys loved it and we had a great night.

Friday we took it a bit easy. I didn't feel too well, but there was no where we needed to be. Troy took the boys to Grovers to work on Peggy's wood floor.

Saturday Troy took the boys to his mom and dad's again. Mom and I ventured out in the after noon to do a bit of shopping. This was a nice break to get out, but I still didn't feel super. After dinner, we headed home to lay down. We picked up a couple of names off the angel tree and I decided that we would do this for FHE.

Sunday we had a nice time at church. We were just a few minutes shy for the sacrament, but I was suprised to see us there at all. Primary went well and I was pleased at how well I felt...with the help of Zofran. Later, the story changed and I threw up, threw up, threw up. Warning: Do not eat popcorn before throwing up. It is not pleasant. I laid down after this episode and soon was asleep.

Monday I was determined to feel good. We took the boys shopping for the angel tree stuff and then had dinner at Sizzler. I am glad the salad bar was so stocked with yummy food. I was able to eat a lot of things I have not been able to lately. We filled the order with the exception of a batman toy. We could not find one we liked.

Tuesday Troy headed to his mom's again. This time finishing the floor. Yeah! Tevan went to preschool early at 9, I had Primary presidency meeting at 9 and Daeson had to go to school at 12. We took mom to get her hair cut, went to Jack-in-the-Box for a quick lunch and ran some errands. We got the angel tree boys some boots and coats and finally found a batman. We picked Daeson up at 3:30 and did a bit more shopping. We had tacos for dinner...surprisingly I crave these things! We had our formal FHE and it was great to talk about service and giving. We were able to purchase for two boys: pants, long sleeved shirt, a zipper sweater, boots, a toy, and coats. Mom helped fill the order and we all had a great feeling inside. I am glad that the boys can learn early in life that giving is a necessary part of life on this earth.

Wednesday we dropped and picked up Daeson. We loaded pictures on to the computer and ordered them from Walgreens. Christmas cards are about ready to be sent out!!! We went to the Dollar Tree and got some necessary items to wrap gifts with. We ran to the mall, the boys saw Santa (I did not think he was very jolly though). I was able to get some maternity clothes...already!!! I cannot believe at 12 weeks my body is ready for maternity clothes. I guess with this being my third baby, everything starts a little early! After the mall, we went to our ward party. I felt bad for Judy, she and her husband were in charge. They planned on 96 people being there and there were A LOT more than that! The primary sang and the choir did some beautiful numbers. We also had a piano solo by a guy in our ward who plays the piano beautifully. We were ready to go home by the time this night was over. We were all tired and ready for bed.

Thursday mom got ready to leave. This was sad for me. The boys were sad, too. I worked on Christmas cards to be mailed, we wrapped some gifts and I picked up Daeson from school...almost not making it. I was so queasy that I had to take two Zofran during the day. This is becoming a regular thing to just make it through the day. Troy's truck was a day behind getting to the warehouse, so we cut it close leaving to Pocatello to take mom down. But, we made it by 6:30 and we were at the Golden Corral by 6:33. It was nice to see my brothers and to visit with them. And, once again it was so nice to eat some good food that I had been craving. I recently swore off mashed potatoes, but I chanced it last night and they tasted soooo good. The cantelope and the grapes were good, too. We got home about 9:30 with out mom. She stayed at Justin's and they left this morning to go to Boise where my dad will pick her up.

Friday is here. The day I have been dreading all week. The boys were easy this morning and wanted cereal. They have been eating a lot of cereal lately where I usually only let them have it on Saturday mornings. Tevan has been eating a TON of everything, but mostly applesauce, grilled cheese, mac and cheese and cereal. Daeson is getting a bit more picky with his food choices. I made it through lunch and now I am staring at my treadmill wondering if I get on, will I be able to do a good walk or if half way through I am going to get sick and not be able to go on. I have got to do something to get my blood pumping. I feel like the last nine weeks has been spent on the couch. I have been able to do some great reading, but other than that my body feels neglected. I am getting a bit bigger, faster, than with Tevan. I am trying to stay positive, but if I don't gain 30 pounds like I did with the boys, I am okay with that. I think I would prefer to gain about 15-20 max. I am not trying to loose weight, I just want a healthy pregnancy. I was doing really well on the treadmill when I first found out that I was pregnant, then I got that horrible cold, then I got to sick to do anything. Now, with two pills a day, I should be able to tone this up a bit.

The boys called Grandma this morning and told her they missed her and that they were sad that she was gone. They love their Grandparents! I wish Mom's visit were a bit more fun for here, but I really appreciate all that she did for my family. She ended up washing about 27 batches of laundry in one week! Everything in our house was dirty...sheets, towels, clothes, pajamas...you name it. Troy tried to keep up, but he had so much to do! Thank you, Mom, for coming and doing so much. I really appreciate it and I know my kids and Troy did too. Troy teased me the whole time about not being able to keep up with my mom and she was the one doing everything! Haha. So, today I am doing it all on my own with a bit of help from Troy. He has to work long hours lately because the snow prevents the trucks from being here on the day they are supposed to. I am trying to figure out what to have for dinner, heavens knows we do not need to eat out again!!! I need something easy and non smelly if anyone has a great recipe!!!

A funny thing about Tevan lately: He is always telling me he loves me, but he tells Troy he hates him. Not nice, but it does make me feel like he is still my baby boy. He told me today, "I love you mom and that makes you happy." You are right Tevan, it does make me happy.

Grateful

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving on Saturday with my family. On my mom's side, everyone was there and we took a group picture...the first full group since Great Grandma died. On my dad's side, we were missing one and and uncle and their kids...two are on missions, two live in Boston and the others had plans. We missed them, but we enjoyed the company we had there. It was really nice to see everyone! We cooked, cooked and cooked. We loaded the car and barely fit everything in there, and I have a big car! We, as usual, had way too much food and it all tasted so yummy. The Zofran was slow to work Saturday, but it kicked in just in time for the big feast! Yummy!

Sunday we enjoyed the Grover Thanksgiving. It was equally delicious and a ton of food there, too. I love Aunt Vicky's guac dip and it hit the spot! My Zofran failed me Sunday...well, not completely. I managed to keep everything down, I was just nauseated and yucky feeling. We had every member of the family there on the Grover side minus Brandon and Zach. Bran lives in Washington and was working. Zach had previous plans. We missed them both, but I was so grateful we got a picture. WE HAVE NEVER HAD A FAM PIC IN 10 YRS! I don't think everyone was thrilled, but I made them do it anyway. It turned out pretty good and as soon as I can get a pic from someone with a camera, I will post pictures. I have taken my camera everywhere, I just have not used it!

I went to the Dr yesterday. I really like my new Dr and he was very good to get a long with. His staff is wonderful and I felt right at home. I love it! I have been spotting since Friday, and I was very concerned. He couldn't find anything wrong with the cervix, so he said just to lay low (as in stay on your couch and don't do anything) and if it gets worse, call. So, Dr orders: temporary bed rest until the bleeding stops. Great. But, the heartbeat and everything else looks great. I was so happy to hear that because I was quite worried about it. he said it could be from the amt of throwing up I have been doing, too. But, all in all everything looks great and I should be (theoretically) feeling better in the next two weeks. I am 11 weeks now, but they wrote my due date as June 4th. Lets hope.

Today I got a pleasant surprise. My other mother came over to clean. She did a few batches of laundry, she did all the dishes, cleaned the bathrooms, kitchen, toy room, living room and vacuumed the whole thing. She also made me my favorite banana cake. Unfortunately she had to listen and watch me throw up. I always hate throwing up in front of people yet I am sure they hate it worse!! She is a good lady and I appreciate all that she has done for me! I am grateful for great inlaws!

My mom is stuck in Pocatello right now. She was going to come Monday, but we have gotten so much snow that it has been impossible for her to make it. Tomorrow she will be here and I will be glad to spend time with her before she has to go back next week. The kids have been missing her, too. So, tomorrow we get to have Grandma full time for a while. I just hope she doesn't get burned out with all of us making so many demands!!! The boys require a lot of attention form their Grandparents, and I am sure I am the one who made them that way. I love having Grandparents around. I never got that after the age of 7.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. I am sure that a lot of you will be traveling. Be safe. I am sure a lot of you will be enjoying a wonderful, yummy dinner. Enjoy. I am sure some of you will be going to bed early so that you can rise and shine for Black Friday. Be one of the NICE shoppers instead of the mean and vengeful ones! For my family? We are going to enjoy a movie (depending on how I feel it will be here or at the theater) and we are eating out. I feel a bit guilty making people work on Thanksgiving. However, I am going to enjoy a day off from all the hustle and bustle of traditional turkey day and we are going to enjoy our boys and my mom. Relaxing. To all of you, have a safe and great Thanksgiving. May we all have things to be grateful for. Things are tight for most families, but I know we each have something to be grateful for. This year, I am grateful for my three boys, for family and friends who have helped make this pregnancy a little bit easier, for the prayers that have been said in my behalf and for the wonderful support I have been given. I am grateful for a husband who works tow jobs, does the laundry, cooks the meals, does the dishes and takes care of my two children. I am grateful this year for a body that functions. I might not be grateful when I am throwing up constantly, but I am grateful that it is able to form a baby with as little nutrition and health as it has been given. I am grateful for a home...right this second it is a clean home. I am grateful for warmth. I often complain that our house it too hot because Troy like to crank the heat up. He is outside all day in the cold and I am grateful he can come home to a warm house. I am grateful this year for love. I know that I am loved by Troy, my boys, my family and a loving Heavenly Father. I know my prayers have been answered. I know that I am a child of a very loving Heavenly Father who watches out for me and loves me so much. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving? Yup. Tomorrow my family celebrates Thanksgiving. Sunday, we celebrate with Troy's family. Today I started on Zofran. What do I think? Miracle drug! It was so great today to eat, keep it down, and I left the house!!! We shopped for groceries...and not even the meat counter made me sick. The down side? I am not sure if my mom is staying now. I wish she would, but I understand if she decides I am "back to normal."

Tonight we made three coconut cream pies, two banana cream pies, an apple pie, a razzle berry pie, a pumpkin pie, and a chocolate pie, five dozen rolls, a cherry salad, a coleslaw-Waldorf salad, and a famous green jello salad (yes, I am Mormon!!). Tomorrow we have stuffing, two hams and two turkeys to prepare. AND, everything was from scatch. Yes, I am proud of that, too! I felt really good today, but it is starting to take its toll as it is 11 pm. The side effect of the Zofran is headache and I have had one all day but I am not sure if it is the lack of sleep due to really bad heartburn last night or if it was actually a side effect. We'll see if this is a regular occurrence. I hope not.

So, tomorrow I will be enjoying food once again...I will be with family...I will be happy. I love it! So, yes, it is a Happy Thanksgiving and I have a lot to be thankful for this year. Family, friends, a new baby, a good job for Troy, a good school for Daeson and Tevan, and a home to live within. I am Thankful for so many things...mostly because I feel good right now...but I truly am thankful for all of my blessings. Happy Thanksgiving!

Friendly arrivals

Today my mom and dad came. They brought Happy Meals, smiles and lots of hugs. In the first two hours that my mom was here, she cleaned the kids' room, the toy room, went to the grocery store, cleaned the LR and vacuumed everything. And dusted. Tonight for dinner we had steak, mashed potatoes, gravy, salad, corn, grapes and salad. What a great meal thanks mom and Troy! It tasted really good (or the mashed potatoes and gravy mixed with corn anyway, that is all that I could handle). Mom has done five or so batches of laundry and Mount Washmore is fading. What a blessing. And tonight when I was throwing up, she rubbed my back! No one touches me usually when I puke...it was nice to know that I have some support while at my weakest point.

We are celebrating Thanksgiving on Saturday. Tonight I got a prescription for Zofran. I hope this ends up in a happy mixture. I only got two to see if they even work. I have heard great things about it and they finally came out with a generic that is affordable. I am hoping that it works.

Not sooo fast!

So, I got a little excited with the last post. Sunday night I threw up...a lot. Monday I spent the whole day on the couch, and today? Well, I missed primary pres mtg (they didn't call because they figured I was throwing up) and I missed parent teacher conf. I had to hang-up mid sentence while talking to my mom so that I could throw up. I must be doing this a lot because Tevan now acts out like he is throwing up. Sunday we went to GG Blues to get Daeson. Right before we left, I threw up. When we arrived, Tevan started freaking out about the smell...it went like this: "The smell, Mommy! I gonna throw up! It stinks mom, yucky smells! I gonna throw up!" He proceeded to the bathroom and acted like he was indeed throwing up. She was cooking garlic bread and I didn't even get sick from the smell! Then last night he declared he could not sleep in his bed, he is sick and has to sleep on the couch. ( I have been on the couch for a very long while!!!) He is just so funny!!! Both boys are very sympathetic when I am throwing up. I did have to explain to Daeson that he cannot play 20 questions while I am in the bathroom...when I hold up a finger, please wait until I can answer before asking me anything else! And, if I can hang up on my own mother while throwing up, please do not think that I won't hang up on you! Today I have spent the entire day on the couch. I did make breakfast for Troy when he came home at 10:30. But,unfortunately, that is the last thing I have done. In the last three days,I did manage to read the Rick Riordan book, "The Last Hero". Fantastic read if you are wondering! I read all the Percy Jackson books and this is just as good. It even ties in to the Percy books. Very easy and very fun!

The other thing I did today was switch Doctors. I don't generally bad mouth doctors, given my dad's profession, however, a certain Dr. Leavitt's office was a bit savvy if you ask me! The nurses were always cold...like they hated being there. The last visit I went to the office billing guy pulled me into the office to make payment arrangements. I was then handed a paper that I had to sign saying that I would pay every office visit the amount of $700 or right around there. I didn't know what to do, so I had Troy call to speak to him. Troy simply asked if we could reduce the payment to $350 so that it didn't put us in a crunch every month. He said, "Well if you had a $700 plumber's bill, you would pay him." He missed the point. We were not trying to refuse to pay, just make it so that we can afford it! Then he got after us about insurance. I have insurance, but in Idaho, it is crappy self-employed insurance and our deductible is $7500. That is ridiculous but I cannot do anything about it! And I pay a chunk of change for that!!!! Anyway, he then told Troy that if we cannot pay them (finally agreeing to $400), they would sue us. What jerks! They do not know me, they do no tknow that I have NEVER been late on a payment!!! They had no right to threaten me with sueing me...the baby has not even been born yet!!!!!! I am only 10 weeks and they pull this kind of crap! Then, when I called the office to tell them I needed my records transferred and to cancel my apt, she hung up! I wash my hands of them!!! Plus, the new doctor is $600 cheaper...eat that! So, I did do one more good thing today, I saved my family $600 with two phone calls!

Daeson's teacherloves him...he is a great student and she had nothing but good to say about him! Troy was very excited and happy to report that. He get a little rambunctious at times, but what 5 year old boy doesn't. There are 3 small baby letters he cannot recognize, but we will fix that!!! Troy asked if he could start reading and she was excited that we wanted him to this early. I had no idea what they were learning, I am such an outstanding parent these days, but I was thrilled to know that he is doing and learning so much! Great job, Daeson! I sure love you!

On the mend

I am not sure if the last two days are , "here, feel better so it can get worse" days or if I am starting to feel human again. The song from Beauty and the Beast keeps popping in to my mind, "We'll Be Human Again" (from the revised DVD). I have not thrown up...I have wanted to but managed to keep it all down. Today my Grandma and Grandpa visited with what Troy declared "the best chicken and noodle soup he has ever eaten", Jell-o, oranges, rolls and cinnamon rolls. It tasted so great and Tevan even ate it! Daeson is at Grandpa and Grandma Blue's (Troy's parents), they picked him up last night so he did not get to see G&G. They were sad, but I am sure he is having a fabulous time. My mom and dad are coming this week and we are so excited. This will be a good visit, and if I am not feeling better, she will stay!!!! for two weeks. Do I see vegetables in my children's futures??? I am grateful that she is able to come stay, it will be so wonderful to spend time with her and the boys are ecstatic. We definitely don't see them as much as we want to.

Because I knew my Grandparents were coming, I was able to muster through cleaning two bathrooms, loading the dishwasher, washing the dishes that would not fit, and cleaning the LR. I was just wiping down counters as they pulled in. I gagged the entire time, willing myself to keep it under control, and I did it. I made myself, for the first time in weeks, clean thoroughly. Troy was quite impressed when he got home from work tonight. I still have unwashed laundry and the sheets all need changed, but we are afloat. Atleast someone can walk into my home and I am not embarrassed from the disaster.

So, lets hope that this is coming to an end. Tuesday I am 11 weeks and I will be so glad when the first trimester is done. I have a fat little belly, but I am weight down, so I am sure it is all baby!!! LOL! :) So, until next time...

Tears

A couple of years ago, my sister-in-law's sister-in-law and brother had twin boys three months early. One, Dex, did not make it and many tears have fallen in their behalf. The other boy, sweet Crew, is a super cute baby and has come so far! Today I read a precious blog posted by Megan. It made me stop to think about life and how precious it is. As I sit and blog about how miserable I am, I know there are several out there who would give anything to be in my shoes right now. This humbles me. I forget that I am lucky to be carrying a child. I forget that I am lucky to be able to increase my family by one more member. My selfishness has consumed me and I feel so sad about that. I am sorry for making anyone feel sad or lonely. I think I have just felt so sorry for myself that I have not stopped to think of anyone else. I hope things start looking better!!! And, Megan, you are brave and courageous. You are an inspiration to all of us!

sweet friends

Sunday night a dear friend brought over chili and cornbread for our family. After visiting, which I love because it seems to take my mind off things, she cleaned my living room. I have been sleeping in the living room on the couch for five weeks now (Troy has a smell that mu super sniffer just cannot handle), and it was nice to close my eyes Sunday night to a clean living room. Monday she came over again. She cleaned my bathroom, she cleaned my kitchen, washed the dishes, unloaded and loaded the dishwasher and asked if there was anything else she could do. Oh, Rachel! Thank you five million times! It was such a wonderful thing you did for me!!! Monday night one of the sisters in the RS presidency, Suzy, brought homemade turkey noodle soup and bread with apple tart-let and pumpkin cookies for dessert. It was wonderful and Daeson declared it was his favorite thing to eat! Unfortunately, things are hard for me to keep down. If you call, chances are that you will be put on hold for a minute or called back. I never know when it will hit me!

Troy is feeling much better and he actually loaded the dishwasher last night. HE NEVER does this and proclaims that dishes should be done by hand! But, he did it and I am so grateful he is feeling better. He comes home at 9 to take Tev to school, he picks up at 11. Then he takes Daes at 12 and picks him up at 3. He is so dependable. He has done all the dentist and doctor visits, he has bathed, dressed, brushed the boys' teeth and gets them to bed. PLUS, he works and cooks for us. True it is not the meals that I cook and vegetables and fruits are often left out, but ramen is okay for dinner. I am coming to terms with this. I am still not eating much so I don't really care what they eat. Most of the time it makes me gag anyway! Yesterday I had a mashed potato chicken bowl from KFC, and nothing else until late when I managed a bagel.

I am grateful for those around me who help me and who offer their time in my family's behalf. Troy feels like we are some big needy family....and right now, I can say we are. When the momma doesn't function, the home doesn't function. But I know that this is only temporary. These posts are not for anyone necessarily, but they are for me to remember why we stopped having children. These posts are for me to remember the next time I get the sniffles and I am feeling down, that things are not as bad as they are right now. I am grateful for the honest feelings I have about this pregnancy. It makes it feel real. Although 10 weeks is not very far, I have been sick for over half of them and that makes it seem a lot more. I am hoping by the 20th of Nov I willb e feeling better. Our family is celebrating Thanksgiving that day and I am cooking the turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy and two apple pies. I just want to make it through it. That is all. Last night I bummed a phenegrin off my neighbor ( I took it with Tev and it did nothing, but I was desperate last night). Not 10 minutes after taking it, I threw everything up. And, just for future reference, Crystal Light is not the worst thing to throw up. Gross, maybe. helpful? Definitely. I am now 40% excited for this pregnancy. I was 0% Sunday, so that is a huge improvement. I know once things are a bit smoother and things are going better that % will change significantly. I go to the Dr again on the 22nd. This will be my blood work and all that junk visit. I hate getting blood drawn and I hate peeing in a cup. However, I think it will be fun to have the boys hear the heart beat. I am anxious for them to start understanding the baby thing. Daeson gives my belly loves and tells the baby he loves it. He actually wants to name the baby Jesebele. What five year old picks Jesebele? We do have names picked out, but someone from preschool already has taken it, so I will not be sharing until the baby is born. Even though the preschool lady said they are using it, I had it first and I will be using it, too. I love the names we have. Boy and girl alike. The boy will be named after Troy and the girl after me. Those are the only clues you get for now.

If I have ignored you or not called you back, I am sorry. If I have shirked on my duties for callings, I am sorry. If you come to my house and it is a mess, I am sorry...you should have come last Monday! :). I do not feel like talking on the phone, I do not feel like going out of my home, and I do not feel like being too social at this point. So, I am sorry. I just want to lay on the couch, nap and occasionally eat something very bland and flavorless to keep my body working. The good news? No weight gain! Just leveling it all out!

Cleaning

It is amazing what a five-year-old and a three-year-old can do. I know I am really acting horrible when my kids start catering to me to make me happy. So, after church...I know it is Sunday and we should be doing holier things, but my kids hauled all the dirty clothes downstairs (making SEVERAL trips) and restocked the bathrooms with TP. They are very eager to help me today and I am taking advantage of it. It is so nice of them, and it helps that I mention money:).

Today at Church I asked around to find someone who wants to clean my house for a little extra money. I cannot really afford to pay someone a whole lot, but I am just looking for someone to clean my kitchen and bathrooms every week thoroughly. Also to give the house a quick vacuum. That is all I ask. Those are things that I just cannot do right now. The boys can help pick up and Troy should be able to take out the trash, although he is going to be super busy now that he has his hand in another business. I will not be seeing much of him at all. What timing! This will be a change for all of us. I am not a person who asks for help and I normally would not be asking for someone to clean for me. But, I lay on the couch everyday wondering how in the world I am going to conquer these tasks. I cannot live like this!!!! The energy I do have needs to be focused on laundry and cooking something. Even if it is cereal. I also need to focus on my kids and be nicer to them. I have been a monster of late and I feel so bad about it.

Tevan's ears are still oozing disgusting green stuff and he is whiny and tired...and demanding. Neither he nor I have had a decent night's sleep for almost a week. Daeson and I managed church today. Troy is feeling a bit better, but not better enough to whip up the Alfredo and grilled chicken I requested :). I hope tomorrow we will all be in better health and I am hoping that we will all be able to take care of ourselves...or at least Troy and I. Until then...

Super powers

I can GROW people, what is your super power?

Dinner

Dinner is over-rated, especially when you throw it up.

Laundry

I must admit, this pregnancy has me beat. I lay on the couch most days, wondering what the heck I am doing just laying on couch. It is comfy, I can snooze, and I feel less nauseated while lying there. Nothing in my house gets done...nothing. Heidi, my fab sis in law, came Monday to help clean. She was great. We took down Halloween and got things to where I was not embarrassed to occupy my home. Unfortunately, by Tuesday it was a mess again. Trigger points for me are: the kitchen, cooking or uncooked food, and laundry. Yesterday Troy went out, after the boys declared there were no clean pjs in their drawers, and bought pjs. Four pair. Luckily I had thrown a batch of laundry in sometime during the week and had it on the floor near my desk, waiting to be folded. So, when Troy came home from the store, he was surprised to find the boys in clean pjs. However, I do have some great pjs for Christmas presents now! Late last night I decided I better get some laundry done. I have washed, dried and or folded seven batches now. And, to my surprise, only dry heaved four or five times. I will not let this beat me. The kids have not had sheets on their beds all week, and our sheets have not been changed for three weeks now...keep in mind that because we have all been sick, I have slept on the couch for the last three weeks so I don't have to smell anyone and therefore it is not my responsibility to change those sheets :), or at least that is what I am telling myself! Last night I was up until 5 am with Tevan who was very restless. He wriggled, he cried, he moaned and he boobed about everything. He has some major drainage from his ear, but it is not infected. I am sure it is very uncomfortable for him, so I finally convinced him Ibuprofen was what he needed. I finally cozied in on my couch, quite comfy I might add, and fifteen minutes later I hear, "Mommy, I need a drink." So, we gave drinks, said I love yous and snuggled back down. Then at 7, Troy's alarm blared through the house making it all but impossible to stay asleep. By 9 everyone was awake and it was time to face the day. I miss yesterday's loooong nap. Today I want to climb back on my couch and sleep again. Alas, I must fight the laundry battle, brave the smells of my kitchen and "[wo]man up" to the duties of a mom and wife. I don't want to. I get nauseous thinking about it, but it's not going to do it itself. I have already proven that! I am asking for a favor...if anyone out there has a great and fantastic solution to morning (day) sickness, please let me know. I have tried B6, meklazine, ginger ale, Phenagrin, and all types of mint products. I know that there is a new generic version of Zofran, but when we read about it, it said there was not significant studies done to know the risks of preg women, whatever that means. So, if you have a fantastic cure-all, I would love to get back in my beloved kitchen and cook something delicious!!!!

Halloween fun

We had a fun Halloween this year filled with spooks and sweets. I was Medusa, Troy was a Jester, Daeson was a Knight and Tev was Batman. They were so cute! We had a little party and went to the Trunk-or-Treat at the church. Finally at 1 am, I finally called it a night. Yesterday was our Primary program and being in the Presidency, it was busy. Our kids did a wonderful job and I am proud of Daeson for having his part memorized. He was the only one who did not need help! Great job, Bug! After church, I rested for a bit. I was exhausted. I went to bed too late and woke up way too early! Today is house cleaning day. I loaded the dishwasher and it is ready to be loaded and ran again. Laundry is piled high as it has been neglected since last Monday, and the floors that were spotless Saturday are disgusting. I am pretty sure there was some pop or something spilled and tracked through the kitchen. The cupboards are covered in things that need packed away in the Halloween stuff. Troy did a great job on Saturday with the bathrooms and kitchen but I am afraid it will all need done again today. So, now that the festivities are over, the cleaning will begin.

Oh, I went to the Doctor on Wednesday and everything is great. Our peanut is perfectly fine with a strong heartbeat and great length. Only 32ish more weeks to go! Luckily, I am just still nauseated. I have convinced myself that throwing up is overrated and I have been able, for the most part, to keep things down. I am sick to my stomach every day, all day, but I hope it will get better.

Acts of kindness

Tonight my good friend Jen brought us a delicious meal of cheesey broccoli soup and homemade, home-ground wheat bread. It was wonderful...and, get this: homemade. My family got a homemade meal tonight. I was so thankful. We have been eating out a lot because A) nothing sounds good to cook and B) my kitchen makes me want to puke. It is not a messy kitchen, but the smell of food cooking and the idea of cooking food turns my stomach inside out! For those of you who never get sick...I envy the heck out of you. For those of you who do get sick...I feel for you. As we were partaking of this wonderful meal tonight, Daeson asked where we got it. I told him Jen made it and he said, "Jen made all of this for us? That was so nice, Mom." It was nice. It was a wonderful act of kindness. I was able to send Jen home with some goodies, but nothing beats a soup and bread!

This week is going to be extremely busy starting tomorrow. I hope I can muster through it. Tomorrow we have preschool at 9, drop the car off to get detailed (it smells like kids and I cannot stand to be in it), pick my new recliner up at the store, pick Tev up at 11, take Daeson to school at 12, teacher orientation for primary at 1, pick Daeson up at 3, clean my house???, pick car up, pres mtg at 6:30 pm, dinner and bed. I have cakes to do this week and Halloween to get ready for. We love Halloween at our house. We have a great time...I just hope I can pull this year off. I have to get the garage cleaned out, bikes put away, canning stuff packed up and fall decor to find. Wednesday I go to the Doctor, which Jen will be performing another act of service by watching my boys. I normally would take them, but we do an ultrasound to make sure the baby is growing where the baby should be growing. I am hoping everything is fine, but in case it is not, Troy will be with me. He hates going to Dr visits with me, it grosses him out that people would choose the profession of an OB/GYN. So, once again, Jen, thank you. You are a great neighbor and friend. I really appreciate it!

Longing for change

I am not sure what brought these feelings on. Pregnancy hormones most likely. If you know my family at all, you know that we moved around a lot. When I was 7 we moved from Pocatello to Missouri. Then four years later, we moved to Denver. Three years after that, we moved to Malad. I lived in Malad for four years while I was in High School, then moved, pretty much the day after graduation, to Pocatello to attend ISU. Although I loved spending time with my Grandma Tom, I moved back to Malad for 8 months while I worked, waiting for my semester at Rick's to start. I then moved to Rexburg, met Troy, lived in four different apartments (two before I got married, two after) in three years and then we moved to our home here. We have lived here since Dec 26, 2003. This year marks our 7th year. We have loved our neighborhood and we have some close friends here. I have lived in my house that I own longer than I have lived anywhere. I guess when people ask where I am from, I can now say here. If I died tomorrow, I would be buried here. This is where I am from.

However, for the last few months I have been feeling like change is in the air. Our ward has changed, some of the loved ones have moved out and some great one have moved in. Friends that used to be are no more and new friends have been made. There are only a few things that I do not like about the neighborhood we live in: there are not enough babysitters and there are no boys my kids ages. This really stinks. Daeson is forced to play with girls...dress up and dolls. There is no one Tev's age so when Daeson is invited for a "playdate" Tevan is left at home bawling his eyes out. I am not one of those mom's who makes my kids stick together. I think it is very important for kids to develop their own personalities and friendships. I will not force them, two years different in age, to play together with other friends.

I just feel like I am ready for a drastic change, not just by having a baby. No, I want to add to the chaos by moving. There, I said it. I want to move. We have outgrown our home. We are ready for some land and I would like to live closer to Daeson's school. No matter where we live, Troy has to drive all over for his job, so that would not make a difference. I would give a carpet allowance since ours is trashed and I would have to give an allowance for siding since we never got around to replacing it. Other than that, our house is okay. The basement is finished (other than the bathroom) brand new in the last three years. The bathrooms have3 been torn out and redone in the last four years and the windows and doors are new in the last five years. I need a bigger kitchen. This kitchen is fine for a few people, but when we have gatherings, we do not all fit and we are forced to eat in the garage. I am ready for change. I am ready to make that change before this baby gets here. I am ready for something huge to happen...like a house. Troy fights me on this everytime I mention it, but I am to that point where I just don't care. So, if you happen to see a for sale sign in my yard, there will likely be some angry feeling in my house! But, really, I am ready for a change. Ready for bigger and better things...I am calling it my 7 year itch.

Christmas 2010

I better get these posted, I am already behind! There are some ideas posted for the Smith side. Let me know if you want anything added!

Grovers:

Child gifts $5.00 and under

Adult gifts: Whatever you want to spend

Adam; Dani

Kayla: Troy

Adalyn: Sadie

Mieley: Ryker

Tora: Daeson

Troy: Todd

Jandy: Adam

Daeson: Adalyn

Tevan: Tora

Danielle: Heidi

Todd: Kaden

Sadie: Tevan

Ryker: Mieley

Heidi: Kayla

Brad: Jandy

Kaden: Brad

Adam and Todd, we need some ideas or you'll get a super cool t-shirt!!!

Smith side:

Child gifts:Under $10.00

Adult gifts: Less than $20.00

Justin: Jaden

Hailey: Jandy

Jax: Daeson

Jandy: Carlie

Troy: Jesse

Daeson: Brookie

Tevan: Carson

Jess: Troy

Carlie: Justin

Brookie: Tevan

Carson: Jaxon

Jaden: Hailey

Ideas:

Justin: white ankle socks, g's, Gift certs to McDonalds,

Hailey: food storage, smelly lotions,

Jaxon does not need clothes but would like: Cars, trucks, Sesame Street DVDs, Elmo and Dinosaurs

Troy: Home Depot GC, tools,

Jandy: diapers Pampers swaddlers N, Huggies size 2, wipes from Costco, baby bath soap, Dreft laundry soap, Vaseline yellow lotion, Gift Cert to Home Deopot or Lowes for paint and bathroom stuff

Daeson: Pokemon or Bakugan stuff, Size 5/6 warm pajamas, bath stuff with characters on it, Dr. Seuss books for both boys

Tevan: ZhuZhu pets stuff, size 3t warm pajamas, bath soaps with buzz or other characters on it

Carlie: laundry detergent Tide, Pampers size 5, Snuggle fabric softener

Jess:

Brooke: jewelry, Barbie, dress-up stuff, Princess hair clips, Belle princess stuff

Carson: 2T/3T clothes

Jaden: HMK4/klim boots size 12, g's, laundry soap, Gift cards to foot locker, sporting goods store (not Cabellas), tools,

Mom: silver stud earrings, lotion (all kinds), slippers size 8 1/2-9, mid-calf blue socks not trouser,

Dad: Paint ball gear bag, bathroom books, cross word puzzle books,

Sick and sicker

Two nights ago I came down with a very obnoxious runny nose. Yesterday when I woke up, my head was pounding, my nose was running and I developed a horrible cough. This morning I have all of those symptoms plus a sick husband. It is bad enough that I cannot get caught up on laundry and cleaning, now I have to add to the fire. I have been taking Airborne...one of the greatest supplements in our time if you ask me! But as for other medication, I try to stay away. I don't even take medication when I am not pregnant.

My house is a wreck. I did get two batches of laundry washed, dried, and folded. I managed to unload the clean dishes this morning and load all of the dirty ones from yesterday. My beds remain unmade, the floors unvacuumed, the hermit crabs unkept (I am not even sure they are still living). If someone were to come over, I would either lock the doors and pretend I was not home or open the door looking like crap and welcome them to my very smelly, untidy home. I have not cooked since Sunday. Here it is Thursday. Troy has been really good, but now he is sick so I am sure that will take care of his enthusiasm. It is 8:40 in the morning. Tevan has preschool in 20 minutes. He is still in his pajamas, he has not been fed breakfast and he will probably stay home today, or be VERY late. I am not usually like this. I am usually very on the ball and organized but right now, I do not give a flying monkey's tail. It would be nice to have a long, hot bath filled with Vicks Vapor Rub. It would be nice to heavily medicate myself with TheraFlu or NyQuil and just sleep the entire day. It would be very nice to have my children old enough to take themselves to school and cook their own meals. But, I am a mother. I take care of my husband and my kids even when I am not 100%. I have to. It is my job and my responsibility. It is my duty to my family to hold my pounding head up high, keep my fanny out of bed and get to work. It is now 8:50. We may have tears (from both parties) as I hastily get Tevan ready for school, fed and out the door. But with luck, I will pull it together.

Tired and nauseous

So, I know it is a bit early to be posting this, but our family members have been told and my children will probably spill the beans sooner than later, so here is our news: Baby #3 is on its way. How do I feel about this? Well, we decided to try until September. Then two Tuesdays ago, I decided that I wanted to stop and be completely done. The sickness, the tiredness, and the hustle and bustle that we are already experiencing overwhelms me. I am tired now. I don't know what I am going to do in nine months when this little Grover comes.

The funny thing is that it is due in June. Let me give you a quick run down of June...or starting with May 28: Daeson May 28, my niece Brooke and my Late Grandma Great June 5, Me June 8, Kayla June 9, cousin Shailee and Aunt Vicky June 11, Uncle Scott June 12, June 13 my Mom, June 14 this one, June 15 my Grandma Tom, June 16 Uncle Dirk, June 19 Tevan, June 21 my Grandma Lish, Aunt Lynne June 22, June 23 Uncle Kip, June 28 Dad and June 29 Aunt Kristy. I tried to get it to come sooner, but it was not supposed to happen that way I suppose.

I now get to rearrange furniture and bedrooms. I have my eye out for some bunk beds. I found some yesterday that if they are still there tomorrow I will go purchase them. I need to paint, get new carpet, weed out toys, and try to find space. One option is to get rid of the guest room, but I am not ready to do that. I don't get a lot of visitors, but it is nice to give them privacy when I do get them. Also, I do not like that the boys would be downstairs. I like them up with me. So, I think the toy room will dissolve. There were 5 bedrooms when we bought the house, but we turned one of them into an office for Troy. The other is a guest room. Then upstairs we have our master bedroom, the boy's room and the toy room. The toy room will become the boy's room, the boy's room will become the nursery and our room will remain the same. So over the next 7ish months, I need to get the energy to do all of this moving and rearranging. Right now it seems a bit overwhelming, but it will all work out. I guess that is why we have 9 months to prepare. Unfortunately my raised vegetable garden and my pavers will have to wait as will our siding and our hardwood floors and our living room. Our deductible is outrageous. I cannot believe insurance companies!!!! They make you pay a TON during the year, then they cover NOTHING! I hate it. Being self-employed makes it even harder to get good insurance.

So, what are we hoping for? I think we all will be okay with either a boy or a girl, hoping that it is healthy. However, I would really like a boy. We have everything for boys and considering when it is due, I will have the proper sizes and seasons. If it is a girl, we will be equally happy, but it will cost a ton to buy all new stuff. This will likely be our last baby, if I have anything to do with it. Three is plenty for me. So I think it would be silly to purchase things for a girl if it is our last. I would just like a healthy and happy child. That is really what any of us want. God willing.

My cake business is on a slight hold for a while. I have four cakes ordered right now and as long as I feel okay, I will continue taking new orders. After the baby comes, I will completely stop for about 10 months or so. Then I hope I can resume in full swing. This makes me a bit sad. I love doing cakes and I love expressing myself through frosting :). But there is a time and a place, this is not my time I guess. I will keep everyone posted and updated through the BLOG. I go to the Dr on Oct 27 to do an ultrasound. They have to do this because of the previous ectopic pregnancy I had in 2002. They just make sure everything is where it is supposed to be. Until then...