Passing the Time

Someone recently asked me what I do while I nurse the baby, as it takes SO many hours of the day. Hmmm.

Well, I don't read much. Because I hate being interupted nine thousand times a minute from the other kids.

I watch T.V. some, but not much. I don't have a remote control in my room, and I like to nurse in there more than anywhere else. So that's out.

I talk on the phone, but not too much either, because I get a kink in my neck. BUT, I don't mind too much because I can still talk on the phone and do my favorite thing...

Play solitaire!!!!

I play on my phone and iTouch. Are you horrified at the stats below? I am.

1187 games played.

435 won.

122 hours played.

Holy cr*p! That's almost ALL since Peter left in February. Maybe I didn't want to know that...
But to be fair, I play it to fall asleep as well. It keeps my mind occupied and keeps me from dwelling on the stress right now. But, woah! That's-a-lots-a-solitaire.

Do you like the giant cracks in the screen of the iPhone? Nice huh? Peter did that, not me.

Hiding of Weapons

After cleaning the house like a crazy woman, while showing the house, I noticed this:

And this.

Luckily, I think I am the only one that noticed. If the renters did, then they didn't say anything and were probably totally confused. 'What the heck are those?'

Twenty bucks to anyone that can guess what they are and why they are there? (not really, like I have 20 bucks to spare)

Yep. They're Star Wars Light Sabers. And why are they on top of my window covering's? At opposite ends of the house? To ward off robbers? Defend my family?

Heck no.

They're there to save our very lives...

From a crazed two year old.

In the heat of a nasty chase or two, I've had to grab him, take the weapon and dispose of it immediately. I guess I forgot about them though. And how 'bout the fact that there are TWO of them still up there? I tell you. He's a crack up.

Or a line backer.

I'm not sure which, yet.

What a Week!

First of all; Getting Bigger! 12.2 at his 8 week appointment.

Day Camp for Samuel

Movie at the Scera Shell Theatre

Swimming at the Scera Pool and Hawaiian Shave Ice after

Goofing around at Edgemont Elementary, AKA "diggers park"

LOTS of Skyping with daddy

Late night with friends

Dinner, parade and fireworks for Summerfest

MORE swimming...

Crafts, crafts, and more crafts with their favorite person, Amanda

Doctors visit

Strawberry Days Rodeo

Face painting book and lego encyclopeida arrives from daddy

Suprise Birthday Party for Sam

Minky let them eat candy ALL evening long

Swimming with cousins after the party

Take out and an evening at the park

Singing to grandpa in Sacrament Meeting for Father's Day

Sheeeesh! Is it any wonder, I'm pooped...

Ten Years of Being a Dad

Yesterday was Father's Day. It was also my oldest child's birthday. While talking to Peter, he said, "It's so appropriate that Father's Day and Samuel's birthday are on the same day. Because today, ten years ago, he made me a father."

Last year on my blog, I wrote "birthday blogs" about my family and close friends. I was late on a couple, but nothing compares to Samuel's post; a whole year late. And believe me, he needs to be written about.

I love him.

I really, really love him.

He is the epitome of "oldest children". Always looking out for others, somewhat apprehensive - but pushes forward, wants to please his parents, and takes on WAY too much responsibility.

Sam is giant. Really. He's pretty darn big. When I say he was a "chubby" baby - I may be understating. What do you think?

Oh, my big Sam. I have the best memories with him. He made me a mother, like he made Peter a father. One of the first things I said to him when he was born was, "please never say 'I hate you' to me. Because I LOVE you so much!" At my three week check up after he was born, I told the nurses "I could just make out with him." I just didn't know how else to describe this immense love for a person. (Yeah, they thought I was a total weird-o. So what?)

Sam has been the happiest, most easy going child. I never knew the meaning of "terrible twos" until a few kids later. Once. That's it, and I'm not kidding -once, he laid on the floor in a fit. And it lasted about one minute. I hate to brag - but I'll be honest, he's a kid to brag about.

Oh sure, he's not perfect. But, like each of my children, he's perfect for me. Unfortunately, I have to learn and practice all of my new areas of mothering on him. And Heavenly Father knew just the child I needed for that. One that is resilient, that loves unconditionally, one that is willing to learn, one that loves his parents and siblings. One who is very patient. Especially with his mother.

You truly have never seen a better older brother. The day Simon came home from the hospital he said, "My own-ee brodder?! My very own own-ee brodder?" I see him regularly tying someones shoes, lovingly tucking hair behind a saddened child's ear, giving unsolicited hugs and kisses, reassuring the younger kids, and just plain loving them.

He tells me he loves me, everyday, at least ten times a day. "I just love you mom." He LOVES to hug, cuddle and kiss. At ten! Isn't that the greatest? I'm hanging on for dear life to that one. He frequently rubs my feet or back for me when he sees I'm stressed.

He basically carries the weight of the world on his little shoulders. I often feel bad about this for him, although I truly appreciate it. Even his teachers tell me that he just can't stand to see someone else feel sad. That if someone is crying, he's the first to try and comfort them.

As you can see, he has a HUGE capacity to love. Very much learned from his father, another person who loves like no other I know. I'm so thankful for Peter's ability to love, and to teach others to do so as well. What a gift they have, and I am so lucky to have them in my life.

Samuel loves to pretend, build Lego's, ANY sport and being with people. He prefers to be with others than alone, especially friends. And just about every little girl I know has a crush on him. Guess why? I mean sheesh, I have one myself, for crying out loud.

He loves being a scout with all of his heart. He has had the absolute best scout leaders on earth, we will really miss the scouting program here. But, as with all things, he is a great sport about it. He's so easy going, that lately I have been having to make him have an opinion. He says, " I don't mind" about most things. So, I have making him choose. I fear he may become too easy going with no opinion, and I don't want that.

Like I said, he's a great big brother. Sometimes his siblings drive him nuts, of course. But he deals with it well and learns new ways to adjust each day. His younger siblings worship him, and want to do whatever he's doing and be where ever he is. I think he's starting to get a little sick of it, but for now, he handles it beautifully. (usually)

As you can tell, Samuel is a wonderful person. I already worry about who he will marry, because I think he's so great. (I know, I'm a crazy mom - but he really is one in a million) I worry about this for all of my kids, in fact, but am trying to teach them to listen to the spirit and always follow their Heavenly Father.

I listened and followed when it came to their dad, and I am so thankful I did. I love him with all my heart and am so thankful for him. There truly is no better dad on the earth. Peter was born to be a dad, he loves it, and they love him.

I can't wait until we see him again. When we can be as a family should be - together.

Doctor, Doctor. Can't you see I'm...

Is the next line to that song "Burnin' burnin?" Because that could actually be a bad thing. Bladder infection...or worse. Anyway.

It's apparently doctor season for us. Before we head over seas I wanted everyone to get their annual well child visit in, as well as a trip to the dentist. So last week I made eleven - yes - eleven appointments! Three of which were on Thursday.

I had a ten a.m., then two four p.m. all for the children. (or so I thought) I also had to show the house to prospective renters at 5:30 p.m. (RENTED!) I know, cutting it close. In the mean time, I had to get the house SPOTLESS! I have issues, you know. Did you know I had 876,982 finger prints on the walls, doors, mirrors and windows in this house? Who knew.

I was only fifteen minutes late for the first appt. And a mere two hours and ten minutes late for the second! Yep. Apparently the appt was for TWO p.m., not FOUR. Dang! Did you know that when you have five kids, you all but keep your pediatrician in business? A little known fact, but it's true. And did you know that because of this, the entire office knows your kids and they pretty much do anything you ask for? Yeah. It's nice. So, sweet Doctor Bailey, of course, made room for our two hour late appointment. We love "my doctor Bailey" - as Ruby calls him.

Why am I telling you all of this? Only to remind the future me of the craziness in my life right now. (I love in Back to the Future (part ???) when he meets future him, it's kinda like that) So I'll tell you the brief humor of the doctors appointment.

Dr. Bailey reminded us of the "5,2,1" rule. Five fruits and veggies a day, no more than two hours of "screen" time, and at least one hour of exercise a day. At which time Simon says,

"We watch, like, six hours of T.V. a day"

Did you just see me slink down in the chair? Okay. You have to remember that things are out of whack here right now. And six hours is stretching it. (But not by much...) So I said,

"During the school year we don't watch TV during the week, though."

"Yes we do, mom."

"No we don't"

"Yes we do"

"Well if you do, you're not supposed to Si."

I love arguing with a seven year old in front of the doctor about my bad mothering skills. I will tell you though, that -as a general rule, which is totally broken with a new born and no dad around - the little kids can watch two hours of PBS a day, the big kids none during the week. Then on the weekends, they can all watch a movie or play the Wii for a couple of hours. We usually do really well, but again, right now - anything is fair game.

But I'm not sure if that was more embarrassing or when Simon told the doctor this:

"I LOOOOOOVE sugar! It's my favorite thing. I am king of candy. I love treats. That's all I eat. I LOOOOOOOOVE sugar!!!!!"

*cringe*

What do you think?

Big Chubbie Chach

People keep asking me how Chach likes his baby brother.

Oh, he likes him. But he likes his baby's chair better.

Do you like how he's parallel to the ground. Just in case you aren't aware - this chair is NOT meant to look like this. But he sure enjoys it.

But the real problem, if only he could get out...

Stiiiiiill Got IT!

Don't you just love when you find something that fits from high school?

An old dress.

A great top.

Your favorite jeans.

I recently found something that fits me from high school.

I loved them. They are green, my favorite color at the time. I got them for my 16th birthday from my parents. I just loved being able to slip into them. They make me feel so young. I have so many memories of these little beauties.

Want to see? Okay. Now remember, these are from high school. Not many people can wear things from way back then. It's been nearly 20 years. Can you believe they still fit?!

Nice. Huh? Are you jealous? I bet you wish you still fit into your things from when you were 16!

Hahahahaha!

Love,

Me

Brotherly Love

If this isn't happening while I need to attend to the daily chores of life...

then this is.

I don't know what I would do without Samuel right now. He (and the other kids) have pitched in so much. There is no way we could be living this time apart from Peter without all of their extra help. Thank you, my wonderful kids! You're amazing.

Strollerdon - A newly discovered dinosaur!

Chugs in a maniac. Really. These "weapons" are up high, so that the older kids can be kept safe.

Frightening. I know.


He enjoys chasing the bigger kids, growling and trying to hit them. (we're raising a sweet, gentle child - I know. Just kidding. He's actually really fun. He just goes bonkers now and then) One thing he enjoys is this, though:

STROLLERDON...ARGGGHHH!

He puts Roo's baby stroller on his head and chases the kids around. THEN - just when they think he's done, he whips it off his head and chucks it at them as hard as he can! Honestly, I hear more crying from the three oldest, being abused by their two year old brother, then by the babies.

Little twerp!

(disclaimer: I do try to keep him from doing this. The older kids egg him on, laugh and laugh and get him to chase them. But, as we all know : IT'S ALL FUN AND GAMES UNTIL SOMEONE GETS HURT! Too bad they never listen to me when I tell them to knock it off. Looks like they'll be learning the hard way...)

Home Storage, kind of.

While many of us store food for times of need, Sol stores food (his sippy that is)

for HIS time of need.

Today his "bippy" was found in the lazy susan, with his "bebow" (blanket) as well. At least he know where they are and where to find them when he needs them.

Little cutie.

Saying Goodbye

As the last day of school approached, I donated all of the boys uniforms to the uniform swap at school. I'll admit, I felt a little sad. It is saying goodbye to a time in our lives. We have loved the boys school and I feel a little anxious about what is next for them, and not having uniforms at their new school. Funnily enough, so does Sam. He hated me giving these away. "What if I WANT to wear them to school there, mom?" "You won't" I say. "But what if I really WANT to?" he says. "Well, then you can. We're taking a couple pieces for church anyway."

Even he's attached. I'm beginning to worry about the move and the kids. When a kid is this concerned about not wearing a uniform, he may have other issues as well. Yikes. This is only the first of many, many goodbyes and a whole lot of change. But for now, we had our last day of school in the United States and are looking ahead to time over seas. I still can't believe this is really going to happen...

Last Day Of School

Like last year, the last day of school meant running through the sprinklers and water balloons! The kids love this. I did not, however, put my suit on and join them. Running on low fuel, I felt pretty good about this happening at all this year. Many things have been put on the back burner right now.



Chugs LOVED doing this! He had a fantastic time.

The boys had "free dress" the last two days of school. So Samuel chose to wear his dad's old Army t-shirt. It says "tennis" in the front, and is like 25 years old. Sam thought it was the coolest.

While playing around in the water, they found a little snake. Eeek! I don't like snakes. They asked to keep it, but first - I've taught them well! - they had to put gloves on. Nice. I know. By the end of this event, they were bare handed, but did wear them for a while.

They named him "Freddy McJr Tennis" and if you don't believe me, Simon made him a birth certificate. Of course Simon made him a birth certificate, what else would he do? They kept him for a day or two - then let him go. Yikes. I prefer to pretend that these things are not in my yard...

While You Were Sleeping

Okay.

This post is a little embarrassing. Just remember that I am a single mom of five. (for the time being, anyway) With a newborn on my hands, as well. I don't get to hand off any of the kids when my husband walks through the door, because he doesn't walk through the door these days.

That said, during the day, I try to get a little nap in. Samuel is put in charge and I remind the kids of this: "Please don't come and get me unless there is an emergency. An Emergency may be one of these: you are on fire, bleeding, have a broken limb, the house is on fire, there's a stranger at the door, or someone is pinned under a heavy object."

And even then, it better be good.

I have been known to go through the list when my door cracks open, I see a small child's eyeball and hear, "Mom, are you awake?" I say, "Are you ...(one of the above listed items...) ?" "No", they say. "Then what is the emergency?" I ask. (not very friendly, I might add) "It's not an emergency, I was just wondering if I can have some gum." OR some other minor issue. I respond with something like, "You did not just ask me for gum, did you?" And they slink away. I know, it's not very nice. But really, I am just trying to get a cumulative amount of sleep - 8 hours broken up in at least three pieces isn't too much to ask. Is it? If I don't get this, by 5 pm, I am not a force to be reckoned with. Believe me.

I don't really care what they do during this time. They can have snacks, watch TV, go into the back yard. All I ask is that they're safe and remotely enjoying themselves. I understand that I can't ask for more than this.

So I thought I'd share with you what I typically find:



Yep. That's full on sharpie.

Yes, his older brother, the "creative" one - Simon, left it on the counter after one of his many projects.

Yes. That is a pink doll stroller in my kitchen drawer.

Yep. The entire bag of Cheetos's gone. I think it may have been licked clean. Yep. Orange EVERYWHERE. (What was I thinking buying them anyway. I HATE their orange mess!)

And yes, every shoe thrown from the shoe basket. Thanks Chach!

This doesn't even show the TV room. Which usually has every pillow and couch cushion strewn across the room. Fruit snack wrappers all over the place. The back yard covered in otter pop wrappers. Yeah. It's nice. They do have to help pick up, but I do the majority of it.

I realize that I can't expect them to be angels while I am sleeping. I am just hoping for all them to be alive. So far. So good.

Sassy Graduation

Remember when you were cute and sassy and could dance like this and no one cared?

Those times were wonderful, weren't they? This is Ruby's graduation. She was so cute. I hate seeing her grow up. I just love this sweet girl of mine, she's a pistol!



Lady Liberty!



"We're going on a lion hunt, and I'm not afraid..."



I will miss this time in her life. I see other little girls, much younger than her, and I miss her already. I have so many little boys, it seems like the time with them is lasting much longer. But each day of her life, is one less of my daughter. It just slips through my fingers, and I don't like it.

But I sure like her.

Day of the Dino Dig

One cool thing about living in Utah is that there are LOTS of dinosaurs. Or shall I say, WERE lots of dinosaurs. We have amazing museums, and lots of neat things to see. But a dinosaur dig open to the public is very rare. So when we heard one was available for people to come and see, we jumped at the chance. (The picture above is a rib of an Alasourous (sp?) being worked on while we were there)

Si, the collector, kept very busy at the middle of nowhere, stop on the side of the road. He could barely carry everything he wanted to bring home. I think he wittled it down to one or two in the end. Thank heavens. While Sam and Peter were talking with the paleontologist for a half hour, Si was outta there! He had to get straight to work looking for his own dinosaur bones. He searched long and hard, and found A LOT of rocks! (BTW, the paleontologist let Samuel hold the tip of the tooth, about six inches of it. This was so cool for him. Who gets to hold an actual fossil at a dig site? Most everything you see on display are replicas of fossils, so to get to hold a real tooth was very cool.)

Roo dug in the dirt the entire time. Well, it was a Dino Dig, after all.

The site was about three and a half hours from our house. With a two week old and four other young children,...lets just say it was a long trip. Although fun, and we were all glad we went.

About thirty minutes from home, there was a rollover accident that closed the freeway. We sat in the car for an hour and a half. Good thing we had enough gas, a mom full of milk for the baby, and Jim Gaffigan / Brian Reagan on the ipod. It was a LONG wait, and everyone was very good. We laughed a lot!