Pinkalicious delicious birthday party

Every year, I promise to slow down during December. Everybody does, right?

It never fails, I am in over my head. Here, my "craziness" starts with Avery's "pinkalicious" birthday.

We had such a fun time at the dance studio. Her instructor ran the show. I loved it, especially since I had had just painted and redecorated her room all day. I was exhausted. First, they danced. She taught the girls a dance to Miley Cyrus. Ah, wish you could see them get their groove on. Precious. Then she played group games with the kids. Musical chairs etc. They giggled till they fell over. Next up, pizza, cupcakes, and presents. The cupcakes were "pinkalicious" delicious. And, darn cute too (I had them made with edible glitter covering the top.) Avery is a wonderful hostess....she was sincerely thankful for each gift and friend.

After the structure and control we let the kids run wild through the studio in their stocking feet. This was their favorite part of the night. Remember that for future parties. No matter all your planning, attention to detail, creative games....the kids will always love the few minutes of unstructured time better than the rest. Ha. And, since that wild time was the end at the end of the party, when the parents came to pick up their child...no one wanted to leave. Lots of pouting kids walking out the door. I'm glad they all had such a good time. And, I was extra glad to have no clean up!

Thanks to Fluidity dance, this was a very easy and totally fun party.

It must of been Thanksgiving

This is what I saw.

Family time. Lots of family time. Playing. Singing. Sleeping. Games. Movies. Food. More food. Children being grateful. We celebrated the holiday exactly as I had planned.

Just being together and enjoying the company. Thanks to Gigi and Papa for celebrating with us
I consider myself blessed. I am purely, absolutely and totally grateful for my life. My husband, my love, is my best friend. I am lucky. My family is my life. My children bring me more joy. They smile, hug, and laugh everyday. Happy. The gospel of Jesus Christ is my stability and strength. Blessed.

But, it's the little things" in my life which bring me the most happiness this Thanksgiving.

Ellie's growing confidence, the kindness of Zach's friend-Ian, the dramatic side of Avery, Zach's love of cologne and clothes, his tutor, Avery's obedience, Ellie's nurturing nature, Avery's conversations Zach's innocence. a new 'chore' chart, reading recovery program, FHE and participation from everyone, emails from Jeff, Little Sally Walker (because its sure to get everyone laughing) morning prayers and routine, this school year, Jeff's patience, Ellie's grades, a budget, Zach's much improved handwriting, Avery reading, my quiet time in the a.m, even when Zach turns it into "our" quiet time. A forgiving and understanding husband, Zach's aide: Ms Flower, Jeff's phone calls during the day"just to say Hi", having my prayers answered, volunteering in Eby's and Devoe's classroom each week, plans for a big vacation this year, Jeff's job, preparing for middle school, friends, dinner together, no snow in November, my soon to be new sister in law; Kat, family sing-a-longs, and snuggling on a lazy Saturday morning.

A big, happy birthday wish to my mom and Avery. I'm glad we had a double celebration for two of my favorite people.

Oh happy day!

This is why I love fall.

Don't forget about us...

We dressed up for Halloween and attended a party. The Pattersons and Keisers hosted a fun night. Thank you!

If anyone wants a theme party for thanksgiving...give us a call. We bring peace!I'm sad I didn't get a picture of everyone there. Sorry!

What a treat!

This time of the year is busy. I get it. We are not the only ones chasing our tails during Halloween week. You know... the school parties, parades, costumes, ward trunk-or-treat, costume parties, and finally trick-or-treating (with tired kids) make for a crazy week. Yes, it's fun. But, boy oh boy do I wish we could slow it down...just enough to hang on to the "little things" that make it so special. I want to soak up the memories and hang on with all my might. Amongst the fast paced week of Halloween were some sweet moments that should not be forgotten.

Like, when Zachary thanked each neighbor with "Thank ya, Thank ya very muuch" in his best Elvis impersonation. Or when I was applying Ellie's eye makeup to look "punk and grungy" and she just kept looking pretty... darn those beautiful eyes. Or each time Avery put on her costume and she squealed with delight and gave a quick twirl to see the dress spin. This is what I love.

And, then there was that kind-hearted (5th grade) boy that offered to help Zach with his costume just in time to walk for the parade. How could I forget that? I hold on to the memory of Avery bursting at the seams as she finally saw and sorted all of her candy. She and I discussed each piece..."this is her favorites" pile. I want to remember that during Ellie's first alone outing with friends for trick-or-treating she admitted to me that she would of rather gone door to door with her dad. Precious memories like this make it easier to endure the extra hours, time, money and hyper kids. I know this won't last forever. Thank you, trick-or-treating!

More party pics for tomorrow!

Let's talk about outdoor ed

Earlier in the month the twins went on a school overnight trip. First time ever to sleep away from home. With loads of excitement, the kids prepared for this trip several weeks beforehand. There were awesome activities in store for them, zip line, canoeing, archery, fossil dig, trust course: both low and high (yikes) They stay overnight in cabins with friends, eat meals together and spend time bonding as 5th graders! At first, I have to admit I was nervous to have Zachary in the care of someone else all night long. Mainly, because his seizures typically occur in the evening while he is asleep. I was worried he would be scared without us to tend to him. I was worried about the proper care and complications. I guess I wasn't the only one... as it turns out the Fire Ridge staff was nervous too. So, they came up with a plan that would suit us just fine. They invited Jeff to come along and supervise the boys cabin. Yes! What a plan. Now, I was really excited to have them go to camp.

As you well know, they couldn't of picked a better "camper" to lead the troops. Jeff loves to be with children (especially his own). Games, funny stories, and a bunch of boys laughing at his jokes... is right up his alley. He prepared a funny story to tell by the campfire. He prepared a rockin' song to sing as a group. He prepared a bag of treats to distribute to the lucky boys who had him as a leader. He wasn't prepared to be swept off his feet by the kindness of the boys as they interacted with Zach. He mentioned what genuine and sweet gestures he witnessed as the boys were grouped together. Same with the girls. Although, he didn't spend much time with them he couldn't help but peak on Elle various times through the night. She was always with a group of giggling girls. Wild, loud, and happy...just as girls do. I was pleased to hear from her cabin leader what a "delightful and polite" young lady she is. Thank you, Mrs Campell.

a "pink" group picture. Looks like someone didn't like wearing his hat....

the girls gathered in the morning bursting with jitters and excitement before they boarded the bus.

Ellie and Mckenna in the lodge before the campfire.Zach and some buddies from his group

I am thankful

My prayers are heard and answered. And, in some cases immediately. This morning at 4:30 Zachary suffered a seizure. It woke him up, he calmly called to me. I know the "seizure" voice. I quickly ran to his side, administered the needed dose of medicine and waited. Typically, the seizure will stop within minutes. However, recently the seizures are taking on a new role. They are frequent and longer. Fearful that it may not stop with one syringe of medicine, I said a prayer. I prayed that he would fall asleep and his stiff arm would loosen to the point that is obvious to me the seizure is over. I prayed for a sign. Note, that a few times we have thought seizure ended only to find another begin moments later. The only sure way to know the seizure is gone is if Zach immediately falls asleep (the medicine is powerful and fast-acting.)

Only a few minutes into the prayer, a snuggly Zach fell asleep soundly. And snored loudly. Music to my ears. When my prayer was over, I checked his arm. A once tightened and twisted arm was as flimsy as a wet noodle. No confusion there. The seizure had stopped. And, I was thankful. Thankful for the quick answer and for the tender mercies we are afforded each time.

One tender mercy that i can't neglect to realize is the fact that either Jeff or myself have been with Zach during the seizures. Either by phone or in person. Last month when Jeff and I were in NYC, he had a seizure. Scary for grandma and grandpa, however we happened to be on the phone at the onset of the seizure. Jeff could walk his mom through the procedure without a minute to waste. Heavenly Father has blessed us with tender mercies along the way. Zach has always been awake and coherent for several minutes at the start of each and every seizure. He speaks clearly and appropriately. It allows me the strengthen to carry on, give the needed aid, watch the clock and comfort my baby. I talk to him, express my admiration for his courage and hold him.

Because he is awake I can tell him, you are my hero.

How can we deny that Zachary is being watched over and protected. We are blessed and thankful for answered prayers.

NYC

Jeff and I went to New York this week. We left the children behind. We left them in good hands and knew that they would have fun with grandpa and grandma. We knew that we would have fun in the city alone. We called it an "extended" date...luckily, this date would last for several days and nights. A dream, really. We planned our days to include plenty of free time. To wander the city, stop and see with no time constraints or schedules. Infact, each day we knew only to come home for our dinner reservations with Robby and Kat. Fabulous New York dining!

With that being said...NYC is busy, bustling, and fast paced so, we kept up with the pace and endured the blisters.

The first few days were rainy but warm. At first I thought it added to the thrill and adventure of being in NYC. But, a couple of hours later I wanted to grab a cab any chance we could. Wow, this city can be expensive. A few of my favorite sites included the 9/11 museum (heart wrenching), Broadway musical...shrek(sooo cute), the mets game (an experience), and most definitely shopping. Oh, the shopping. And, eating at such fantastic restaurants. We most enjoyed being with Robby and Kat and are very thankful for their hospitality during our stay. Thank you, guys!
I wanted to share with the kids our trip in pictures. This picture stands above the rest in their eyes. Nothing is more impressive to school kids than spying Taylor Swift on the streets on NYC... only hours before the famous Kayne diss.

one last summer vacation

Just as the air turns crisp this evening, I realize I still have a summer vacation to post. It was little over 1 month ago, however it suddenly feels like a distant memory. Only a short while ago, we were sleeping in and playing in the sunshine with no routines or crazy homework to tie us down. Ah, Summer vacation.

The last 2 weeks of our summer were spent in Utah. Boy, did we power pack our time, busy with outings each and every day. Grandpa and Grandma were troopers and joined in all the fun they could handle...ha. Jeff planned out our agenda for the week and had every detail worked out to perfection. Day by day, and morning noon and night!

Day# 1. Park City.

Jeff and I love Park City. This time we brought along the troops. We rode the alpine slide, (I love that thing) and also the giant high jumping trampoline. Zachary loved that thing. For lunch, we ate the infamous Cafe Rio salad. We all loved that thing.

Day # 2. Seven Peaks in Provo.

Before marriage and children I used to frequent seven peaks water park. Word is...it is still the best water park in Utah. Sad to say, I am not the same girl that used to race down the screamin' fast slide over and over. I tried to convince the kids that the shallow and steady green slide was the best one in the park...they didn't buy it.

Day #3. Jordanelle Reservoir

One thing that Jeff and I couldn't wait for is the pure water and gorgeous surroundings of a Utah Lake. We miss it so much living in Omaha. So, days before we left for Utah, Jeff booked a day on the water with a jet ski. We went out to Jordanelle Reservoir to picnic, swim and race around the resovier. The kids each got to drive the jet ski with Jeff riding as co-pilot. Thrilling and relaxing! Water fun suits us all just fine. We invited the cousins to come along. These girls are Ray's children, Sami and Ruthanne. They are so grown-up and Ellie spent every minute wishing she could be apart of their juicy conversations.

Day#4. The pioneer park, "This is the Place"

I have to claim this activity as my request. Jeff was not to eager... but, kindly gave in. The kids loved it. It was hot but still interesting. In this picture the blacksmith is teaching the kids his trade. The village is set up to resemble a pioneer village and the kids partake of crafts and learning activities at each house.

Night # 4 Date Night.

Breya and I planned our time in SLC to coincide with one another. We have successfully planned a trip to get together each year since moving away. It's always a quick one but never-the-less a special time. A short but sweet treat for us.

Day #5 Downtown Salt Lake City.
The gateway museum seemed like a natural way to end our crazy week. My kids have been to so many different childrens museums I wasn't sure if this would hold their attention. It did, they loved it... especially Aves. The news station was an all time favorite! Yes, I know everyone who visits SLC has this same picture...but, here is Zach reporting the news.

So, what did we do the last few days? Sleep and relax.

It happened so fast

Avery grew up and started kindergarten. Thursday was her first day of "all day" kindergarten at Fireridge Elementary. She was more than excited, very ready and looking forward to the big school. She will thrive in a learning environment which is complete with the social interactions she craves. Avery makes friends easily. She plays well with others. She loves to learn. Kindergarten is just the place for her. Kindergarten, kindergarten, kindergarten. I have to keep telling myself that...because I also think she belongs at home with me. I want more time with her in the mornings, more silly conversations, more of her belly laughs and make believe, more time with my sweet daughter as we venture through our day. Together. Avery and I.

However, this new way of life is eased by knowing how delighted Avery is to be in kindergarten. She shines. Her smile says it all. She is confident and ready to be the "best helper in the class." And now, I am willing to share my helper.

the beginning and the end

This is the beginning of her elementary school years.

And, the end year of theirs.I have 3 school children now. all 3 at the same school. And, they are excited. Zachary whispered in the car (and I heard) "I am psyched to start school." Ellie didn't let a day go by this past week without mentioning her anticipation and excitement for 5th grade. Avery carried on with non-stop chit chat about Fireridge and being a "real kindergartner."

We have addressed their butterflies, bought the school supplies, chose "the" outfit, met the teachers and received a blessing. They are ready. It's much easier to send your kids out the door knowing they are happy. I am delighted and ready for them to experience new beginnings.

Ellie with her teacher Mrs. Eby Avery with her teacher Mrs. Devoe

Zachary thought it was embarrassing to have his pic taken at school...does this surprise you? His teacher is Mrs. Adamson and I know she will be terrific for him. He also has a new special ed. teacher this year. Big changes for Z.

This is what summer is made of.

It's moments like this. Childhood dreams. Refreshing lemonade. And kind neighbors who support the endeavors.

In case you were wondering...the girls brought in some serious cash. $15.oo total. All in a days work of 45 min. Pretty good, I'd say.