Oops! Some Birthday pictures I forgot

My kids have informed me that we have a tradition in our house that they love and I, well, I will have to enjoy for the next who knows how long. I decorate there door to their bedroom for their birthdays so when they wake up in the morning they open up their door and they feel like the party has started. Here are some pictures of Alexa in front of her door. I could only decorate the top half because McKenna would have enjoyed the decorations way too much.

Is that a sweet face, or what?

I had to capture this moment of her getting her birthday phone calls from the grandparents. Does she look like a pre-teeny bopper? AAAGGHHH!

Alexa turns 11! YIKES!

My little Alexa is now 11. I can hardly believe it. It just

seems like yesterday when she looked like this:

Alexa wasn't one that wanted to come when we wanted her to. She had her own agenda. She was late and we were worried because Tim had to start his new job up in WA and we had to move. He already was going to go up and start without us. After ALOT of convincing the dr. agreed to induce me. I was 5 days late and we only had a few days before Tim had to leave. So after the longest 27 hours of labor, Alexa was born. She was absolutely beautiful and BIG. She weighed 9 lbs. 14 oz. No one would guess that now by looking at her. I can not explain the emotions that we felt at that time. If you are a parent, than you know exactly what I mean. To all of a sudden be responsible for such a tiny helpless soul makes you realize the unconditional love you have for that child. It was a glimpse into how our Heavenly Father must feel for us.

Alexa was born late Friday night on October 24, 1997. We came home from the hospital on Saturday, moved out of our apt. on Monday, and Tim left Tuesday to go to WA. I stayed back with my parents to get a handle on being a new parent, recover, and wait for Alexa to get old enough to travel. She was so healthy and such a good baby. There was only one concern. She didn't know how to nurse. She didn't even know how to suck on a binky. Which is actually pretty scary if you think about it. If she can't suck, she can't eat. My mom and I spent many hours trying to get her to eat. She kept losing weight which actually wasn't too bad because she started off so big it wasn't as drastic as if she were only a 6 lb. baby. Finally after 10 days of struggling and trying to keep her awake (by this time she was so lethargic from not eating enough she didn't have enough energy to stay awake and suck.) she finally figured it out and from then on ate like a pro.

Here are a few pictures of her from years past. Here she is trying out her new roller skates she got for her birthday.

Goofy as always.

"Cheese"

Ever since I can remember Alexa has loved books. The girl can not get enough. I have found books hidden in the cupboards in the bathroom because she was sneaking them in while she was supposed to be cleaning it. She takes a book where ever she goes. Even if we are going to the store that is 5 minutes away, she still brings a book. Here is a picture of her at 7 months looking at her books. She would sit there for probably an hour just looking through them. My mom would tell me to be careful because at that age she might rip the pages. I don't ever remember ripping any pages out. She just loves books.

One day she asked if she could walk on the treadmill. I came back into the room and here she was on the treadmill reading a book, of course.

Ever since Alexa was little she always wanted a brother. Poor thing, she never got one. In spite of that, I think she really loves her sisters. I know they love her. She is such a good big sister. She plays so well with them and takes such good care of them. She is turning into a very good babysitter. The other night we had to go to Stake Conference so I let Alexa babysit. I told her that they could all have an ice cream sandwich after their baths were done and they were ready for bed. Maya wanted to watch TV instead and so when it came time to go to bed, she told Alexa that she wanted her ice cream. Alexa responded, "No, I asked you if you wanted one earlier and you said no, now it's too late and you need to go to bed." Poor Maya will kow now not to mess with Alexa. And I know that she is getting more and more responsible.

We love Alexa. She is such a joy to have in our family. She makes us laugh and smile when she's around. She loves to pretend with her sisters and little kids. She loves the color purple. She is a great student. She is always coming up with new ideas - like writing her own newspaper, or wanting to teach an art class to little kids. She enjoys drawing and likes to bake and learn how to do things in the kitchen. She is taking piano lessons now and is excelling so well. (I think it's in her genes - many a pianist in our families.) She enjoys sports but mostly she enjoys playing them with her dad. She loves playing with her cousins and loves their dog, Molly. She knows that I won't get them a dog so now she's asking if she can get one if she pays for it herself. She is very tender and compassionate to those around her. She is such a good example to everyone and always has a desire to do what's right. She has always been a little on the tomboy side but the older she gets, I think the more she is turning into a young lady. She is so beautiful on the inside and out. I can't wait to watch her grow and how much more we will grow to love her these next 11 years.

A few weeks ago Alexa had a birthday party with her friend, Ashley from our ward. Their birthdays are so close they decided to do it together. It was great for me. They did all the planning. We had it at Ashley's house. I just had to help with the invitations, buy some pizza, and bring a few prizes. (I highly recommend parties like this for everyone.) Since it was close to Halloween they dressed up in their costumes. They had a haunted trail in Ashley's woods in her back yard, had a scavenger hunt and played a few more games. The plans had to change slightly because it rained the entire day but we made it work. They all had a great time. Here are some pictures from the evening.

The birthday girl, Alexa

The other birthday girl, Ashley

The Party Goer's. They are all fun girls from her Achievement Day class. I was there leader up until a week ago. I am sure going to miss them.

McKenna, the cutest baby at the party.

The relaxed moms at the party. They sure get easier when the kids get older (and you only have to help with 1/2 of it.)

McKenna and me at the party. Tim took this picture of us outside. The few moments when it wasn't raining.

WE LOVE YOU, ALEXA

Happy Birthday to ALL

It has taken me this whole month to finally post this but better late than never, I guess. This month is big for our family. It is Birthday central. So for the purpose of time, space, and energy I am making one Happy Birthday post. I hope no one is offended by this but really, I am already behind with things I need to post and I am just not as dedicated as others are when it comes to blogging. I try but I just can't stay on top of it. So here goes:

In order of date, not age.

Happy Birthday, Uncle DavID!

His birthday is 2 days after mine on Oct. 14. He is one of the Bossy Big Brother's. He really isn't - it's just a nickname that we like to use. We also refer to him as Dave, Uncle Dave, Uncle Bart (sometimes my kids get confused), Bird Legs, and soon to be Grandpa (Although by looking at him you would never guess that.) He is so much fun. And I have finally found someone who talks as much (if not more) than me. I can tell by watching him with his kids that he truly is a great dad and that he loves his kids. I am glad that we get to spend fun times with him and his family and I am especially glad that my children have been able to get to know him better. I don't even think he's sick of us yet which really makes it great.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

My mom's birthday is the day after Dave's. Yes, my parents planned about as good as we did when it comes to birthdays. She is a great mom. Although, she is probably hating that I used this picture but to me, this is how I remember my mom. She never just sits and watches tv. She is always working on something, needlepoint, crocheting, cross stitching, knitting, etc. (This may be why I always find something to do when I go to sit down to watch tv - to Tim's dismay.) She is the best mother anyone could ever have. She is so smart and I still find myself calling her first whenever I have a question about something (even cooking and she always asks me why I'm not calling my husband.) It's just second nature. She gives the best advice and she is never too proud to admit when she is wrong. Not only do I consider her my mom but now as an adult she truly is my dearest friend.

Happy Birthday, Carson!

Carson is my nephew and his birthday is the 19th of October. He is such a darling boy. He is the type of kid that you just can't help but love. He LOVES to play with McKenna and I LOVE that he does. He is always concerned for her safety (a lot more than I am.) Carson has just the sweetest nature about him and it is so noticable when you have the opportunity to talk to him. Carson is now 13 and I can hardly believe it. I remember when he was born because it was just before Tim and I got married. He's a good guy and we are lucky to know him.

Happy Birthday, Alexa!

Alexa's birthday is the 24th. She might actually get her own post, since she is my daughter and well, it's my blog. I just wanted to document that yes, there are still more birthdays in October (she's not even the last one.) She is the best daughter and I can't believe that she is turning 11. Boy, does that make me feel old. She is growing into such a kind and loving young woman.

Happy Birthday, Roberta!Aunt Roberta's birthday is October 26 (2 days after Alexa.) I have known her since I was probably 11 years old. Hard to believe. She is so talented. You just have to take one step into her home and you know she knows her stuff when it comes to decorating. I don't know how she does it but she is so fast at getting things done. When they moved here she had her house all organized and decorated in a month. The girls have really loved living close by and enjoy Aunt Roberta. Alexa even said to me tonight that "Aunt Roberta is very fashionable because she always looks pretty." Livie says that she is really nice. Maya told me that she loves Aunt Roberta because everytime she picks them up from school she always brings a movie for them to watch." McKenna shows Aunt Roberta that she loves her because she always is willing to go to her just as much as she comes to me. I think McKenna has found that she doesn't just have 4 moms but she has 5 moms now to get attention from.

Happy Birthday, Pavel!
I just found out the other day that my niece's husband's birthday is Oct. 27. CRAZY! They just got married in May and they live in Utah. I don't know him very well but I do know that he loves Meagan and she loves him. They are a cute couple. We are happy for them and are looking forward to getting to know Pavel better. Happy Birthday.

As you can see, we have a real problem in this family. We have all expressed many times that we can not have any more birthdays in October but so far it seems that none of us are listening. In fact when I found out that I was pregnant with Alexa and I told my mom and sister, their first reaction was, "Oh! no, don't tell me it's going to be another October baby." Really, we don't complain, we love them no matter when they come. Happy Birthday to all of us.

THE BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!

My Darling husband treated me like royalty for my birthday. We first got to go to a fabulous restaurant called WS/Prime. It's not just ANY restaurant. Our new awesome neighbors that live behind us have connections. He is the Executive Chef there. Tim e-mailed him to ask him about the restaurant (they were in Mexico at the time) and he responded with having Tim give him the date and time we wanted to go and he planned our menu. It was sooooo good. I can't explain it. I think it tasted even better because we didn't have to pay for it. We had 2 appetizers, a salad with beets and goat cheese with a citrus dressing, a steak entree with shrimp, broccolini, and roasted potatoes, a PRE-dessert which was a scoop of vanilla ice cream and passion fruit glaze, and to top it off we then had a choc. cheesecake (not Tim's favorite but I helped him with his.) I'm just glad that I went running that day - not that it did much good, I'm sure. The next day was actually my birthday (Sunday.) We went over to David and Roberta's house for dinner (which they made - nice.) Had cake and ice cream and then Tim gave me his present. which most of you know about. So first off, I have to say THANK YOU to everyone who helped. It made my whole year. It made me realize just how lucky I have been to have and still get to associate with such great people. For those of you who don't know - Tim spent the past few months asking our friends to send him stories and memories that they have with me. They could do it however they wanted. Some sent letters, some sent videos and others sent pictures. Tim put it all together in a movie so we all sat around Sunday evening watching it. The video that you see just a sampling of what I got. This video was sent to Tim from some of our favorite people, The Olsen's. Jeannie posted it on You Tube so I was able to blog it. Note: Kyle is wearing the apron that I made him for his birthday A LOT of years ago and he has a sign on it that says "My Favorite Apron".

It was such a great birthday present. THank you to all that helped and especially Thank you to my dear sweet husband who came up with and spent many hours putting it together. He says he was trying to top our trip to Boston that I took him on and I have to say that he definitely did. (He doesn't agree with me though.)

Reuse Recycle Reduce

I am not your average recycler but I do pride myself on reusing old items for different uses. I have been known to add hooks to an old mirror to make it more functional, or turn a door into a headboard. Tonight I found this and I think it has taken recycling a bit too far. It's a bra purse. The woman who made this and wrote the instructions even admitted that she used her moms old bra. That's just a little too much information for me. What other things do people reuse or recycle? Actually, I'm afraid to ask that question after seeing this.

The time has arrived!

I am finally Cake Walk/Bake Sale Fall Festival Free. We just had the big event this evening (sorry, I again forgot my camera) and now I am sitting with my feet up after eating a nice chocolaty brownie from the bake sale which I thoroughly deserved and enjoyed. It turned out great. We had so many parents donate baked goods it was crazy. We figured out from all those that signed up for the bake sale that we would have over 2000 items (from cookies to cakes.) to sell and for the cake walk. But I am sure we had a lot more than that since I was getting phone calls for the past 2 days from parents who told me they didn't sign up but were going to bring things anyway.

I have been so impressed with how actively supportive these families at this school are. It was the best fall festival I've seen. The nice thing was that the school used to be a high school so it is a lot larger than your average elementary school. It has a regular track and football field and a great auditorium. I think the last I heard there are almost 1000 kids at the school. Since the school grounds are so large they were able to utilize a lot of space. The events consisted of 4 bounce houses, bbq pork dinner, pumpkin story books, grab bags, carnival type activities in the classrooms, a 1 mile fun run, the bake sale and cake walk, hay rides, and booths that were sold to anyone who wanted to try and sell there own products for their own profit. They sold armbands for anyone who wanted to do the activities. It was so well organized and I didn't see anything that was a problem. They had thought of everything down to parking. Since our school has limited parking and the high school is pretty close by they had a shuttle bus for people who had to park at the high school. (I'm mostly impressed because I know if I was in charge I wouldn't have thought of 1/2 the stuff they did to make it a great event.) This was the first time they had ever done this activity and I thought it was great. The best part was that between sponsors, armband sales, and food voucher sales they already reached their goal for the fundraiser so everything that was sold tonight was just "gravy".

The only thing for us was that our events, the bake sale and cake walk, were all the way at the end of the school across the field at the basketball courts. (I did get my exercise in for the day though.) After spending the morning pricing everything, we had to transport all 2000+ baked goods down to the basketball courts where swarms of bees were enjoying the sweet smell of the goodies. I had a little emergency when I got a phone call at 10:30 last night from the husband of the woman that was working with me on the sale. He informed me that they thought his wife had just broken her toe and would not be their in the morning - she would be at the dr. He did let me know that he would be there to help me in her place. That was a relief but I just didn't know how it would work trying to get all these baked goods down to our location if she wasn't able to walk. So, of course, my first thought was to call my trusty family members. And of course, they came through. I called Roberta right after I got off the phone and she was on board ready to help. After getting to the school to start setting up she saw the project we had in front of us and called Brenden and Landon to come over and help. They came right over. Thanks again guys. One more person I have to thank is Carson, because he was so great to watch McKenna while we moved back an forth between the library to the basketball courts. He kept her entertained and it was nice knowing she was in good hands. I have really discovered how lucky we are to have them close.

Now that this is all over, I am going to sleep in tomorrow, go for a run with Alexa and then go shopping for some new pants to wear on my birthday date with my darling husband tomorrow night while yet again, Landon will be watching my children and I will not have one worry about them because I know they will be in good hands. Wait, I take that back I will only be worrying about him spoiling them too much.

BEWARE: Not for the weak of Stomach!

Warning: Only mother's or mother's to be should read this. Not the most pleasant posts and more info. than you care to read. I am mostly documenting this so I can look back on it when I think I'm having a rough time.

Sometimes life gives you lemons and you make lemonade. Sometimes those lemons are just to darn rotten. The past few weeks have been, let's say, a little busy for me. Here's just a brief example: My sister-in-law, Roberta and I volunteered to help with a girl's wedding in our ward. She was going to help with center pieces for the tables and I was going to make the runners for the table. I also agreed to pick up their daughter from school up at SVU the day before the wedding. Which meant those runners had to be done before I left. I have also had HOA meetings (Homeowner Assoc. Meetings) for the end of the year budgets (I'm the secretary), along with Activity Days for my calling. Not to mention that I had meetings with 2 of my girl's teachers to help plan the activities and parties for their classes for the upcoming year. And to add to that I am also in charge of the Bake Sale/Cake Walk at the school's Fall Festival this Friday. This is all on top of trying to be a good mom and get my kids to where they need to be, do laundry, do dishes, make and freeze peach pie filling, start a sewing job for a woman here in town and make sure homework is done and piano is practiced. This may not sound like a whole lot for some of you moms because I am sure you have even more on you plate - but for me, this is about all I can handle without losing my mind (or I may have already lost it, I'm not sure.)

It all started a week ago Sunday - I was cutting out some of the runners for the wedding and went in to use the bathroom (maybe a little more info. than you all may want to know) and had the strong feeling that I had a UTI. If' you've ever had one, you know EXACTLY the feeling I'm talking about. The next day I called the dr. (which is quite unusual for me, since I usually wait as long as possible to go to the dr.) I went in and they did a test and everything was clear. "Clear?" I was certain the night before I felt that pain but it was true that the pain was gone that morning. The dr. agreed to do a culture but wouldn't get results until Friday. Of course, I was to call the dr. if symptoms showed up again. Everything was fine until Thursday.

I had just spent the week making runners, going to HOA meetings, etc. I got up Thursday morning to go pick up the friend at SVU (3 1/2 hours away.) I took the girls out of school early and decided to take them to a pumpkin patch/corn maze on the way just to make it a more exciting trip. We had never been to VA so I wanted to see a little more (and be a good mom.) It was a fun place and the girls really liked it. I would have enjoyed it, except on the way up I had that strong feeling again of the UTI. No doubt about it. The entire drive. I felt HORRIBLE. I tried so hard to enjoy the pumpkin patch but I just wanted to go home and go to bed. I did call the doc and she called in a Rx for me. We got to SVU, picked up our friend, and turned around to come home. We got home almost 10:00 that night. MISERABLE!!! Roberta called me and was having her are own stressful day, watching McKenna for me, helping set up, doing her own Mom stuff and printing out pics and framing them for the reception. She called while I was driving to see if I could help finish setting up for the wedding the next day. I definitely wanted to help because she was so kind to take McKenna the entire day that we were in VA. I told her I should be feeling better because I had my antibiotics waiting at home and I would start taking them right away.

The next day, I was so worn out and tired. The antibiotics weren't working as fast as I was hoping they would. We had a little issue with the fact that Costco didn't get their shipment in and didn't have the flowers that were needed for the tables and poor Roberta was out searching for some all morning which delayed our ability to get the decorations done for the reception. We finally got them done and went to the wedding that night. I was still feeling bad but just thought that it was from the meds or still the infection that I now was convinced turned into a Kidney Infection since I waited so long for the meds. My back was hurting along with feeling down right tired and achy. (not to mention womanly issues.)

Saturday I was still feeling pretty bad but went about getting done what hadn't been done the whole week of Tim being sick and all my craziness. And I had to get it done before Conference started. In between sessions I had to meet with the woman I am sewing for and I thought I wasn't going to make it. The nice thing about Conference was that I got to sit and relax and rest. Right after the last session Tim left to go to dinner with some guys in the ward and go to Priesthood session. Which was fine except by the time I got the kids dinner, I felt even worse. My stomach ached and my back hurt. I could hardly carry the baby. I finally called the dr. again and explained my symptoms. He was stumped. He couldn't figure out why I was achy and had the stomach issues I was having. I assumed it was the meds.

Sunday was a little better but by the evening I felt bad again. Monday was better. Just a little tired but nothing unusual. Today I was great but poor little McKenna. I could tell she wasn't feeling well. She wouldn't eat her breakfast except she drank her sippy cup of milk and 1/2 a banana, if that. We took the kids to school and she just wanted me to hold her. I was so glad that I was feeling better that I had big plans to do laundry, clean my room, do dishes, maybe even vaccuum, if I was lucky. But alas, I layed on the couch and held my sweet baby. Which, secretly, I was loving. I was feeling such sympathy for her and just savored the moment of her laying on me. UNTIL. . . The unthinkable happened. She sat up real quick and began to throw-up . . .ALL over me. I just layed there until she was done. I knew if I moved it would be all over the carpet and she would continue all the way to the sink or toilet wherever I could take her. I was able to stand her up (because she barely got anything on her) and get up without getting anything on the couch or the floor. Serious laundry was done but that's as good as it got. The bright side? I had the thought, "I'm a REAL mom to have a kid throw up on me and not even bat an eye. I also figured out that I must have had the flu while I had the dang infection. I wouldn't wish that on anyone, (maybe Obama before the next debate.) So, I'm hoping for a brighter day tomorrow. We'll see how it goes.