these are (OUR) times

2.18.99

2011-02-19T11:24:00.001-08:00

12 years and counting

UTahhhhhh......

2011-02-03T10:06:00.000-08:00

I know it shouldn't seem like a trip to Utah is a vacation. Especially considering the fact that it starts with a 20 hour drive, in a jam packed mini van, with four kids, one dog, and two sleep deprived, over worked, underpaid (come on, the hubbies in residency)...parents. Thank goodness we had some Taylor Swift to keep up rockin' through the rockies (of Colorado), some Enya when bedtime rolled around, and a medically trained hubby that can drive through the night as if he were on call...while I wedged myself between sleeping kids to act as a pillow and a leg rest.

Seriously, whenever we go back 'home' I find myself missing Utah more and more. The mountains especially. So I am happy to report that we got a lot of mountain time in, this time. It's also great to see the fam. :)

Oh....it's been too long

2010-11-28T19:34:00.001-08:00

Here's a few pics from the past few weeks. It's been forever since I blogged. I guess that's life...at least my life, for right now. While I'm busy livin' it, I did manage to shoot a few fall memories. Don't hold your breath anyone...I don't know when it'll happen again. With that said, it looks like even super heroes need a day off.

How our summer got started...

2010-08-05T20:34:00.000-07:00

So at the start of summer, I pulled the kids out of school a good three weeks early. I loaded all four of them, and our dog, in the car and drove to Utah. Jeff was in Washington D.C. at this point attending a physics course that would end up being one month long, and our plan was to make it out there to him. But first, I needed to unload at my parents house. After a short night stay in Denver, and countless bathroom breaks along the way, finally we arrived in Utah. About 48 hours later, I was kissing my two youngest kiddos and the dog goodbye, and boarding a plane headed for D.C. with my older kiddos. After a manageable 4 hour flight (I'll take that compared to the 20 hour car ride), I was hugging and kissing my hubby, and ready to start our adventure for the next two weeks in the land of D.C. What an adventure it was! D.C. is a place everyone should have the opportunity to visit. The history rocks, the place is beautiful, yummy food, and you'd never find yourself without something to do. We all plan on going back when the two younger kids are a bit older, and we can make it a family affair.
Anyway, here are some pics...in no particular order.

Here we go again....

2010-05-04T22:18:00.000-07:00

Utah- we're on our way!

HELP FOR MY SISTER...please read

2010-04-07T10:30:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know that my little sister, Jill, has had some serious health problems over the past year. She has had one struggle after another with her bowels, and multiple surgeries, and in the end leaving the doctors even more baffled with her ongoing condition. Recently, a great doctor took a look at her case, and decided to not give up on her, and help her get better and get on with living her life. Well, test after test, and appointment after appointment, we feel confident that this doctor has her best interest at heart. He is planning on doing major surgery on her next week, April 13th. As her sister, I'm nervous, and Jill is even more so. But we know that this has to be done to save her life. I saw her a couple weeks ago after not seeing her in months, and tears came to my eyes to witness just how sick she was. She is dying, and her doctor confirmed that that would surely be the case if she went untreated. I left Utah heartbroken, but with plans to be there for the surgery, and not really knowing how else to help. With that in mind, the surgery is why I'm posting this on my blog. The money for the surgery has to be paid up front....some $20,000. Crazy huh? Her insurance will not cover this procedure saying it is part of a pre-existing condition. That's life, but it's hard to take in. Personally, if I had the money I would hand it over in a heartbeat. I'm sure all of you would want to do the same thing for someone you love.

Over the past few weeks many people have heard about Jill's story; those that know and love her, and also those that have never met her, and people have been so gracious and understanding. Many of those people have started donating to help Jill get this surgery she so badly needs. So far Jill has come up with about $15,000 and is trying to raise $5,000 more by next week. At this point, we know every little bit helps and this is my purpose in posting today. If you can, and would like to help, I've added a link to donate for Jill by way of her blog www.thestrasburgfamily.blogspot.com. There is a PAYPAL link at the top for donations. And while you're there take a look at the great items for auction that have been donated by business's and very talented people to help Jill raise the money.

I know I'm not alone in loving Jill. If you know her, you love her...it's that simple. Thanks for taking the time to read this post. If you would like more details or have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me at jamienackos@gmail.com.

11 is HEaVeN!

2010-02-22T11:41:00.000-08:00

11 years in the books.....Jeff style:

11 years ago a marriage was born. Conceived, not in a '79 Camaro, but in the back seat of a car named Love. As it passed from the warm comfortable womb of single life, through the pelvis of commitment, it squinted in the blinding light of matrimony. It was tough at first, because it didn't know how to walk or talk and it lacked bowel and bladder coordination, often soiling itself, but it persevered. It has matured over the last 11 years. Now in its preteen years, it is wonderful. Sure, it's a little awkward at times. Its voice is changing and it is getting hair where before there was none, but it is awesome. Jamie, thank you for the joy, the tears, the laughs, and especially the love that have followed the birth and after birth of our marriage. Happy Anniversary!

THE TRIBE HAS SPOKEN

2010-02-12T10:50:00.001-08:00

If you haven't watched Survivor previous too this season, let me suggest something- GET ON THE SURVIVOR BAND WAGON...NOW!!! Survivor is in it's 10th season, which makes me smile. I've been a huge fan of the show ever since it first aired, way back when, and now it's just plain crazy how much I love it!!!

Whenever I blow out the candles on my Birthday cake, instead of wishing for residency to be over, or to win the lottery, or to have my children act like perfect angels all the time (I don't think even a Fairy God Mother can make that wish come true), my wish is always the same: to be a contestant on Survivor. Though I've never made a video to send in, or even tried out at open auditions (though I came close one year), I would give almost anything to be a part of the competition of Survivor.

This season is truly going to be the best, with some of the best players back for a reunion show, in which the good guys and bad guys from seasons past come back to compete. At this point, I don't think it's much about the money for any of them, but more about who can walk away with the title of The Ultimate Survivor. My words can't do the show justice of course. And all of you LOST fans are going to be so LOST after this, your final season, and so you might just want to get started on something that can help you pick up the pieces. And who knows, you might just become another loyal fan....like ME!

Not your normal 4 year old conversation

2010-02-03T12:35:00.000-08:00

Last night I was driving Jen and and her best friend, Sam, home from swimming lessons. Jen asked me if dad was going to be home that night, and I was happy to say that he would be. Since dad being at home is very unpredictable, my kids have gotten in the habit of asking instead of just expecting him to show up. Jen then asked Sam if his dad (who's dad is also a Doctor) was going to be home. Here's how the conversation went:

J: Sam is your dad going to be home tonight?
S: No, he is on call. He won't be home for 3.....no, 5 nights.
J: Oh that's sad. My dad does call too. He is always at the hospital on call.
S: Ya, sometimes my dad calls at night and says he won't be coming home because he has to stay at the hospital.
J: Mine too. And you know what Sam? My dad also has to live in Acalister (Jen says Acalister, really it's McAlister) to work for lots of days.
S: That's weird, my dad just sometimes lives at the hospital.

Then we pull up to Sam's house...

J: Sam, I hope your dad comes home tomorrow.
S: Thanks, me too. Bye Jen.

As we pulled away from Sam's house, I didn't know whether I should be laughing at that conversation or crying. I actually thought it was pretty funny though that these little 4 year olds were having a conversation about how much 'call' their daddy's take. Surely not a typical conversation for kids their age. I gotta say, it helps to have someone understand where you're coming from, even if you're only 4 years old!

I've been thinking lately...

2009-12-14T19:43:00.000-08:00

....about all the things for which I'm thankful. This morning when I went in to say good morning to my little boy, I started opening his blinds like I do every morning, and noticed a beautiful sunrise with such great shades of pink, orange, purple, and blue. I lifted my babe up and asked him what he saw? He told me he saw a beautiful color in the sky...and then told me he saw a big house. I'm glad he first noticed what I intended for him see. I love little things, like that sunrise. They tend to make me so happy, and I hope I can pass the love of the little wonders onto my kids.

While that might seem to have nothing to do with the picture I've posted, they are both very much intertwined. Like the sunrise, I am also thankful for wonderful friends. Life moves so fast, and I'm blessed to have great friends (along with the little wonders) that make this journey more enjoyable. (AND I'm thankful for my four year old, without whom this picture would not have been captured)

Happy Halloween...2009

2009-10-31T18:44:00.000-07:00

Our Halloween this year was a hit thanks to a neighbor who put on a party for my whole crew, and everyone else, too! Here are some pics of who we were, what we did, and the fun we had. By the way...there was a little unfairness with the picture taking this year. You'll see I got a lot of my little clown (I wore that costume when I was little), and not so much of the other kids. I was on my own this year (Jeff was gone), and so I shot who I could and when I could. It seems Jennifer-Kate was the neediest child, therefore got the most camera time. As my mom always said, "the squeaking wheel gets the grease." This year also seemed to be the "big kid" defining year for me, because Maddie and Ethan took off with the big kids in the neighborhood, running from house to house, having contests to see who could get the most candy. After I lost site of them, I continued on with Charlie and Jen until Charlie declared it was too late to keep going because..."the moon was out." So we went home, dumped the loot on the ground and lay there eating candy and watching a movie till it was much too late, even for the mom. We could have just fallen asleep there with our blanket of empty candy wrappers, but we did manage to get into our beds. All in all, a great Halloween for us all!

Maddie: the SPY

This is our dog, Josie. Dressed like a princess.

Turning 30 + 2.....Happy Birthday to YOU!

2009-10-19T21:19:00.000-07:00

This year for Jeff's B-day, we got to all be together in Dallas, TX. If being together as a family, at the same location, at the same time wasn't enough....we were also very lucky to be able to celebrate Jeff's big day with some good old friends (Tom and Sarah Tippetts) that we hadn't seen in years. The food was scrumptious, the cake (made by Sarah) was divine, the company was sweet, and the Birthday (I hope) will be one to remember.

Tess and Madison carrying out the cake.

Some were not as patient as others, waiting for the candles to be lit. I think Charlie decided that the frosting on the bottom of the candles tasted better than the wax...of which he managed to chew off a big chunk.

Tom and Sarah lighting the cake, which didn't take as long....

....as it took for Jeff to blow them out. Does this mean he doesn't get his Birthday wish?

My thoughts on marathoning:

2009-10-06T19:46:00.000-07:00

I've decided that running a marathon with a great friend, is better than racing a marathon on your own. Every time I forget my speed, and just kick back and have fun, I actually do have fun! Imagine that. Despite my lack of training, I literally decided to run the marathon while picking up my race packet with my friend at the marathon expo. There was no Boston qualifying (like last time) but a far better and much more fun race than I ever expected! Thank you to Sherri...you ROCK!

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Go you MIGHTY Cougars

2009-09-06T10:39:00.000-07:00

The game was awesome! 14-13...enough said.

This is how we roll!

2009-09-03T06:21:00.001-07:00

I still promise that summertime pics are coming, but in the meantime.... This is the look Charlie and Jennifer-Kate sported while waiting out with MJ and Ethan at the bus stop this morning. Yes, Charlie is wearing a pink sweater :) It was perfect, cause it matched the color on his toes!

Just having a little fun...thanks to a GREAT photographer!

2009-08-13T06:28:00.001-07:00

We got family pictures taken for the first time in almost four years...here's a sneak peek.

And seriously, check her out: http://www.bethjansenphotography.com/blog/

PLEASE UPDATE!

2009-07-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

OK, it's been months. What have we been up too.....LOTS! None of us are ready for summer to end, but we know it's coming. We are going to live up the last couple of weeks. And then....yes, then....I'll UPDATE. ;)
ps. That's my Charlie. Almost TWO! I can't believe it.

Happy (30th) Birthday to ME!

2009-04-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

All of you who know me, know that I love Birthdays...especially mine! This month I turned the big 3-0. Since it was kinda a big deal, I just couldn't let one day of celebration suffice. So I decided to run a race, (a big one that got my parents out here), and ended up celebrating right to the end. Fun! My Birthday was awesome, thanks to all my great friends, and the race was...well...(minus the 35 mph Oklahoma wind beating against me for the last 1/2), GREAT! I hope the year continues to be as super as the month of April was for me. Here are some pics from the run.

LOVE HER

2009-04-22T13:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day! Do something good for the earth TODAY....every little bit helps.

Happy Birthday Ethan!

2009-03-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how old my kids are getting. You hear people say it all the time, that it just seemed like yesterday they were running around in diapers. Now I'm one of those people, because my kids are growing up right before my eyes.
Earlier this month, Ethan turned 7! For his Birthday he got a new bike, and wanted to go to the Open House at his school to show us what he's been doing there lately. Pretty easy going huh? He even postponed the cake and ice cream until we had officially gone to his classroom and looked at everything he's been up too. There is really no other kid like this one.

Ethan at 7:

Ethan is a list maker. He owns more note books than any one I know because he is always writing stuff down, and making his lists. He has a room full of books. He recently has finished "The Dairy of a Wimpy Kid" series. He loves math problems and can figure out tricky number problems in his head. He loves to spell and can out spell kids twice his age. His favorite color is Bluegreen. He is consistent. I've sung the same bedtime song (Power of Two by the Indigo Girls) to him for years and years (at his request) and he never gets tired of hearing it. He is great at sharing. He has a tender heart. He's shy. He likes to play soccer. He drinks chocolate milk every morning. He collects bottle caps. He loves video games. He likes to cuddle. His favorite food is cookie dough. He always wears shorts, unless I make him put on pants. When he grows up he wants to be a doctor. He is a great piano player. He loves to be home. He is a great brother and a wonderful son. He loves getting and giving hugs and kisses.

Hugs and kisses to you, Ethan. Happy Birthday!

From the mouth of MY babes:

2009-03-05T19:23:00.000-08:00

These are some recent random comments and conversations that have come from my kids lately. They make me chuckle.

I asked Ethan the other night while driving home from swimming lessons:

Me: Ethan, what did you learn tonight?
Ethan: I discovered that swimming makes my hands smell like English Muffins.

............

Jennifer-Kate used to ask daily why daddy had to be gone everyday. Here's what was said:

Jennifer-Kate: Why does daddy leave me every day?
Me: Daddy goes to work and earns money to buy stuff like our food and house, and your clothes. Isn't he a good daddy to take such good care of us?
Jennifer-Kate: Yes, but I still miss him.

Later in the evening Jennifer-Kate prays over the dinner and says..."and please help daddy to go to work and find us some money." So I guess Jeff no longer earns money, he finds it.

.............

While driving Jen to school she asks...

Jen: Mom, I need my pingernails (this is how she says fingernails) cut.
Me: Me too, we'll cut them today when you get home.
Jen: Never mind mom, I don't want you to cut my pingernails.
Me: Why not?
Jen: Because I want them long.
me: Why do you want them long?
Jen: So I can be big.
Me: OK, why do you want to be big?
Jen: So I can reach.
Me: Oh, OK.
Jen: Mom, I changed my mind. I think you can cut my pingernails.
Me: How come?
Jen: Cause I want to stay small.
Me: Why do you want to stay small?
Jen: So I can fit.
Me: So you can fit into what?
Jen: So I can fit into small stuff, OK mom?
me: OK, we'll cut your fingernails.
Jen: I like it when I am small, cause then I'm your baby.

.............

Jen: Daddy smells like Charlie's diaper when he wakes up in the morning.

(I liked this one the best, cause I remember that my dad had a rather funny 'just waking up' smell too.)

10 years and counting

2009-02-19T11:04:00.001-08:00

There's a thousand (plus) things that come to mind when thinking over the past ten years spent with Jeff. A lot has happened, I mean, A LOT. Jeff got home from serving his LDS mission in November 1998, we got married February 1999, Madison was born just one month shy of our 1st year anniversary (surprise), and we continued on somehow making it through undergrad, medical school, and part of residency, all the while finishing up our family with the fourth kiddo...almost two years ago. Phew....however it's not over yet, thank heaven's. The first ten years have been unforgettable, the next ten should be spectacular. I'm lucky enough to get to spend the next ten and beyond with the greatest man I know...seriously, the greatest. Thanks Jeff for making life worthwhile, and well worth it. Love ya. Happy Anniversary.

When your 3 year old starts dressing herself...

2009-01-31T21:04:00.000-08:00

...you get this.

I was at the park the other day with some friends, and I had Charlie on a big kid swing by himself, just swinging away. My friend (whom also has an 18 month old, but as her second child, and had her securely swinging in the baby swings) glanced over at me pushing Charlie and said, "I guess that's the difference between your second child and your fourth." I couldn't agree more. I think about that moment and still kinda chuckle 'cause there was a time, when I had only two kids, and I wouldn't let my kiddo out of the house looking like she dressed herself. But now, I'm just glad I don't have to worry about getting her dressed. Look, it's one less thing I have to do, and one more thing that I can look back at and smile about....and she'll probably smile, too. Joy!

2009-01-01T21:58:00.001-08:00

Christmas Vacation Rundown

2009-01-01T21:11:00.000-08:00

It started out a little rough...getting delayed at the airport. But not too worry, only two days.

We made it to UT and saw this:

So naturally, we did this:

Yes, that is Jeff...having fun, I think.

We celebrated in the usual way, with presents for all.

Then we ate Aebleskivers (little golf ball size Swedish pnacakes) as we always do. It's a tradition. And they are yummy.

Hang in there... we're not done yet!

Family comes next

The best part of the trip, was not the presents, the snow, the food, or having a bit of free time due to all the helping hands (but it ranks pretty high on the list), no, the best part was spending time with the ones we love! We hope you all had a Very Merry Christmas.

Snow!

2008-12-28T19:52:00.001-08:00

We finally made it to Utah, and this is what awaited us...SNOW! This may come as a shock to many of you, but I am actually enjoying it. I'll be updating our entire Christmas vacation when I get home in a couple days. Until then, Happy New Year to ya'll!

STRANDED!

2008-12-19T09:27:00.000-08:00

Our attempt to make it Utah for Christmas early was thwarted by an Oklahoman fog yesterday. As I stood in line trying to rebook us for a later flight, Jamie was approached by a photographer from the local newspaper, "The Oklahoman." I guess the kids looked pretty pathetic so he snapped this shot which ended up on their website about an hour later. The full article can be found on http://newsok.com/flights-trickling-into-will-rogers-as-fog-thins/article/3331122

A good day

2008-12-11T19:42:00.000-08:00

Today was a good day. Nothing major happened, and so I don't really know why I'm blogging about it, other than to say, it was a good day. I did some busy work this morning (Christmas shopping), came home and layed Charlie down for his nap, called one of my BFF's and layed on my UNMADE bed for over an hour and just talked. Loved it. Later I picked up Jennifer-Kate from school, went straight home and cuddled on the couch with her and Charlie (while watching Tom and Jerry), waited for Maddie and Ethan to come home from school, and then just played...with my kids...until piano and homework, and real life kicked back in. All in all, I've decided to maybe not make my bed again tomorrow, and maybe I'll have another good day.

"Today I will marry Sam"

2008-11-14T17:09:00.000-08:00

Jennifer-Kate has found a few great friends out here in OK. One of her friends is a little boy by the name of Sam. Today Sam came to play. Before Sam arrived, Jennifer-Kate was waiting by the door and proclaimed, "Mom, I feel better (from having her tonsils out), and so today I will marry Sam."

I didn't try to talk her out of it, because one day, I wouldn't mind if Jennifer-Kate got her way and did marry Sam.

They're gone

2008-11-03T10:54:00.000-08:00

Jennifer-Kate got her tonsils out this morning. I was a little bummed because when we got to the hospital, I realized that I had forgotten my camera. I was excited about documenting the whole experience. Jeff laughed at me, and told me to take pictures with my phone...but it just wasn't the same.
Despite me wanting to get step-by-step footage of this event, and not being able too, everything else went perfect. She was a little angel before, and after surgery. And is now sleeping peacefully with her new Teddy Bear. Phewww!

FALL

2008-10-27T19:08:00.000-07:00

So I've been thinking lately about this fall. Because fall as we know, leads right into winter, and winter (as many of you know) is my most unfavorite time of year. As most normal people are welcoming the changing of the leaves, and the briskness in the air, and even the crisp smell that seems to come with that, I'm all ready counting down the months till the temperature reaches 90 again. Everything changes with the changes of the season, one of the biggest is my running. I can no longer wake up early and head out the door for a nice long run. It's too dark to go by myself and kinda freaky when I can't see into the bushes. So there goes that. I miss it. But despite the things that I miss during this time of year...and there are many, I do have to say that I'm going to try hard to have a change of heart towards the seasons. This year, I'm going to find a real pair of shoes to wear through the winter...other than my flippies. I'm going to attempt to put on something warmer than a long sleeve shirt to protect me from the bitter cold...like a down filled puffy vest, rather than a coat. And, I'm going to welcome the different colors and piles of leaves that are perfect for jumping in. And I'm not going to complain about the cold weather, the loss of color, the bulky clothes, the dark mornings and nights, the loss of fresh summer fruit, and.....well, I'll stop there. my attitude IS going to change. Promise. In the meantime, I'll think I'll fix me up a cup of hot chocolate and go cuddle on the couch with Jeff, after all, it's cold outside! Look, something positive all ready. Fall...bring it on!

Making note of a sweet moment

2008-10-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

One day last week I was heading to Walmart. Ethan, Jennifer-Kate, and Charlie were sitting in the back, and Madison had somehow made her way to the front passenger seat. While driving, my mind was going over the mental list I now had to formulate because I'd left my written list in the house, on the counter. Madison was busy talking to me about her day, and things that she would like to do, and everything else that she normally tries to spit out before getting interrupted by her three other siblings. I was trying to pay attention as best I could, but was guilty of giving my occasional head nod, as I was trying to remember everything I had written down.
When we finally pulled into our parking space, I turned off the car and it was strangely quiet. Before I had a chance to open my door, Madison says to me, " Mom, if you ever had to die someday, you know that I would die for you so you could live?" My mind went totally blank and I felt a lump swelling in my throat. I went to take a breath and a tear trickled down my cheek. I couldn't speak. I just leaned over and gave her a hug.
It's times like this that I realize I've been given more than just children, but spirits from heaven. I know we are all given moments in life that make us grateful for something or someone. For me, I feel like these moments come more frequently than I'll ever deserve...so I am always grateful.

Something is wrong with the world...

2008-10-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

when you get excited about this:

Living in OK does have its advantages. And NO, the price of gas isn't the ONLY one, but it ranks pretty high on the list.

Hey ladies...he's mine

2008-09-28T18:39:00.000-07:00

I know that's what you all are thinking, right? Actually, that's really far from what I was thinking. Lover boy here thinks it would be funny to have a mustache for a few days. This morning I ask him if he wouldn't mind shaving his gotee before church...a few minutes later (dressed and ready for church) he comes out with this...

So I thought it was a joke. I couldn't even look at him without laughing. Madison just gave him a look of disgust and told him not to come to church like that. I had to agree with Madison. After all, the mustache is so, will, er, not cool? So I took off to church with the older kids, while Jeff stayed home and waited for Charlie to finish napping. I met up with Jeff sometime during third hour when I heard a group of guys laughing WITH him near the church kitchen. I knew right then, that Jeff had kept the mustache in spite of my encouraging words otherwise. I was embarrassed, Jeff was in heaven. Only Jeff would dare sport such an ugly, out-of-date style, and pull it off by making people laugh. He got such a good reaction from the church folks today, that he's kept the stache, and is making his appearance at work tomorrow just for kicks. In the meantime, Madison hopes that dad won't be taking her to school in the morning.

I took a leap of faith....and landed on the bandwagon....

2008-09-19T10:40:00.000-07:00

About three or so weeks ago, Jeff and I were on a date, walking through the isles of Barnes & Noble. As we walked past a table that had the Twilight series books on it, Jeff makes a comment about how I should start reading these books, that maybe it would help me calm down a bit. Let's take a step back. Over the past several months, I don't know where I have gone, but I've gone somewhere. I've been feeling a little stressed, anxious, overwhelmed...etc. Jeff notices, the kids notice, everyone feels the tension because I'm losing it. So, back to the book talk. After Jeff makes the comment on how reading might help me, I said something to the affect that reading is the last thing I need. But, when we got home that night, I called a great friend (who's been trying to get me to read these books), and relented.
Now, for all who know me, I'm not a reader. I think that last enjoyable book I read was in High School. That's saying something. So I started out my reading with the attitude that I was only doing this to appease the people around me, and in the end, if I end up liking it, that'd be a good thing too.
SO, THREE WEEKS LATER....
I'm on the fourth and final book. That's right... I can't put the blasted things down. After I get the kids in bed at night, I sneak away from Jeff, dishes in the sink and laundry in the baskets all left for him, and into the bedroom I go. I curl up with my favorite pillows and blankets, turn on my lamp, crack the book and I'm lost for at least 3 hours until Jeff finishes cleaning the house up from the day, and tells me it's time for bed. When Jeff's on call, it's even worse, because there's no restraint, I read easily past midnight on those nights, and don't even feel it in the morning because my mind never rests with all that's going on in the story. So I think, as I'm nearing the end of book 4...is this the end? Is there going to be another book? What if there isn't, should I start all over again? And if there is, how will Jeff handle it? And, it never ends.
However, I've vowed that once this story is over, I am not going to pick up a book again....ever. Unless....it's really good and makes me dream great dreams, and makes my heart race with anticipation, and keeps me on the edge of my seat and tip of my toes, and has me looking around constantly to see if I notice another secret world going on without being aware, OR if it makes me realize that reading IS an OK way of spending time, AND it can be quite soothing. So, Jeff and Amy, you win. I like it!
Now, everyone that's NOT jumped on the wagon yet...GET GOING!

Happy 1st Birthday Charlie...Happy 3rd Jennifer-Kate...a little late.

2008-09-11T20:37:00.000-07:00

So I know this is late, but I could not let the occasion escape me further. Charlie has turned 1, 48 hours later, Jennifer-Kate turned 3! Hurray! We celebrated the usual way by opening presents and stuffing our bellies full of cake. What fun! Here are some pictures of the grand event, and of my Birthday kiddos!

ABC's and 123's

2008-08-26T22:01:00.001-07:00

Are you in the BOO-HOO's line or the YAHOO's line when your kids go back to school? For me, this year, I was ready. Yahoo! Here we go again...another year of school underway. Here's Maddie and Ethan making me happy by giving me the ol' "I love my sister, and I love my brother" act. Don't they look so great and grown-up? I can't believe it...then again, ya I can.

And what's a girl to do without an older brother or sister to tell her what to do? Anything she wants...seriously. Charlie and Jennifer-Kate and I are enjoying some quiet mornings and afternoons. Here is Jenn caught doing one of her daily rituals...painting.

I'm coming back soon...

2008-08-19T05:40:00.001-07:00

...I promise. I'm going to be updating about our summer in a few days, OK, maybe a week or so. But it'll come. In the meantime, check out all my blogging buddies that keep stellar blogs compared to mine. What can I say...I'm a boring blogger.

I've been tagged...

2008-08-19T05:34:00.000-07:00

This hasn't been the first time I've been tagged, but... this IS the FIRST time I've responded. I don't know why I choose now to respond to a tag. The only answer to this question I can come up with is, A. the tag invite comes from a great friend (whom I also miss dearly), and B. The kids are back in school. So, now that I have all the time in the world (ha, ha, ha), I will do my best to let you all have a little insight to me and the weird random facts that make up part of ME.

Random Fact #1. I have a "life's to do" list that's pretty long. Items such as, 7. Try out for Survivor, and 11. Run the Great Wall of China Marathon, and 4. Learn a foreign language. And several more that would require me to live a very long time, and have a great amount of money at my finger tips. I tell myself that it's not a dreamers list, it's going to become reality someday.

Random Fact #2. I get really mad when "people" bring their little kids...not even babies...but little kids like 5,6,7,8 etc. to movies that are clearly not meant for "little kids". PG movies these days can be questionable, but pg-13 and R....come on mom's and dad's, have some common sense. Get a sitter or don't go.

Random Fact #3. I am a sheet snob and love high quality sheets. Few things come close to climbing into a bed with smooth 400 thread count sheets...or higher. Speaking of sheets, I also love making my bed in the morning and pulling my sheets tight, because at the end of the day, smooth cold sheets are great to climb into.

Random Fact #4. My closet is a mess. For some reason, I have never been able to organize this area of my life, no matter what I do. Growing up, I never remember anything in my mom's closet being out of place. To this day, that's still the case. As for me, I can't keep it clean, and I'm OK with that.

Random Fact #5. I love lots of color. My dream home will have bright fun paint on every wall, and fun patterns and textures in accessories to play around with.

Random Fact #6. I hate to have hair in my face. During the process of getting my hair cut, I'm constantly moving it out of the way. It makes my skin crawl.

There, now, wasn't that exciting? Now who am I going to tag? The only person I know of that hasn't been tagged before is my hubby. So Jeff, if you will, what are some random facts about you? For those of you that didn't know my hubby has a blog...here you go...http://lonack.blogspot.com/

Here are the rules:

1) Link to the person who tagged you
2) Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading)
3) Write 6 random things about yourself
4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them (This is only a game)
5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog
6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up

Going Home...finally!

2008-07-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

So the time has finally come. I get to go home in three days! I'll be there with the fam for a month. I'll be back in August. Have a great summer ya'll!

Madison looses a tooth, and Ethan plots against the Tooth Fairy.

2008-06-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

So the other day, Madison lost her first molar. It had been wiggly for quite some time, and then finally popped out with the help of a strawberry starburst. What could be sweeter? Anyway, that night, Madison puts the tooth in her "Tooth Fairy" pillow and tucks it safely under her bed pillow, but asks me (because she knows that her dad and I are the Tooth Fairy and every other magical person in a child's life...see the "Santa" story a few postings back) if I would leave her tooth this time, because it's really big, and she thinks it's cool. I said sure and tucked her into bed.

The next morning we piled in the minivan (sounds sexy huh?) to do some running around town, and while driving out of the neighborhood I asked Madison if the Tooth Fairy had come. As I caught her eye in the rear view, she smiled and said yes. I asked her if the Fairy had left her tooth like she asked. Again, she said yes. Just then Ethan,(who hasn't lost a tooth but has been wiggling the heck out of the ones he does have), without hesitation pipes up and says, "Cool Maddie, put it back in your pillow and use it again tonight!"

Clever little boy you might be thinking....not me. The only thought that went through my head was, how many years do I have left before he's a teenager?

First Fruits

2008-06-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

This year, we have a garden. My little garden buddies are Jennifer-Kate, and Ethan. Madison will water when I need her too, but for the most part, she hangs out inside reading or making friendship bracelets.
Our garden is booming with beautiful tomato plants, green peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, basil, and a few other herbs. But, the favorite of the kids happens to be the strawberry plants. They check daily to see if, by some chance, the little buds of yellowish white strawberries, somehow overnight changed into the deep red yummy pickable type that they crave. This morning, Jennifer-Kate was in luck. She had it plucked and eaten before Ethan made it out the door to protest. Next time, I'll insist that she wash it first...

To all my knitter buddies

2008-06-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

I just thought I'd blog about one of my favorite things....lately. This cute hat has gotten some great comments around town. I'm so in love with it, every time I pick up my needles to knit, I have a hard time stopping. The boy version is adorable too! And I might be a bit bias, but my hat model is absolutely darling.

This is cool, right?

2008-05-29T19:10:00.000-07:00

So Jeff gave into his latest craving and came home one afternoon with a wii. Everyone in the house was thrilled. In fact, I don't remember being so excited since that time Donny and Marie MC'd the Miss USA pageant...note the sarcasm. The kids soon were coming up with all sorts of reasons why they should be allowed to stay up and play wii sports, or Super Smash Brawl, and Jeff was finding even more reasons why they should be in bed. Number one reason: Guitar Hero. Yes, as you see from the picture, Jeff even has me involved. I will admit, it is fun. Something I'll become addicted to, probably not. But if it gives me a chance to stand next to Jeff and feel like I'm sixteen again, ROCK ON! Enjoy the rockin' picture of us in our pj's, thinking we're cool.

Feels like home....sorta

2008-05-22T19:12:00.000-07:00

So I heard about this place called Turner Falls here is OK. I pulled it up on the web and read a bit about it, and also saw some pictures. It looked amazing and reminded me a bit of UT. So, I coaxed the family (Jeff and my Dad), into the 2 hour drive down south to see some Oklahoma country.
When we arrived I was in heaven, as the short drive through some "mountains" led us to an outdoor natural water park oasis. I must have had the biggest smile on my face the whole time we were there because I felt like I was home...sort of. Any little bit of outdoorsy stuff I can get makes me happy. And even though the website for Turner Falls claimed to have a "hike" to the the natural waterfall (which was stunning), it was actually a paved path and less than 1/4 mile long. But hey, at this point, I'll take what I can get. At the end of the day, the kids were begging to stay, I was begging to stay, and the men where ready to go home seeing as there was no fishing to be had. This is definitely a trip I will make again!

Thankful for my Mom

2008-05-18T18:54:00.001-07:00

I know, I know, it's a week past Mom's Day. I should have been more on the ball and posted the day of or before, but instead, I've been busy actually spending time with the woman that helped make me who I am today....parents are in town (hurray). And, since I like who I am and what I'm becoming, I have to say, "Kudos Mom, you did a great job!"
As I am now in the thick of motherhood, I can't help but have even more appreciation for my mom than ever before. I don't ever want to sugar coat things that I put into my blog, and so I must say, being a mom is darn hard. Everyday I think about the things I am doing (good for me), and the things I am not doing (it'll come later, right?), and wonder how my perfect mom fit it all in. At the end of the day, I have to say that perfection is not within me at this point, but mom, one day I might be where you are....I love you!

IS SANTA REAL???

2008-04-17T07:16:00.000-07:00

A few days after Easter, the kids and I were sitting in the front room munching on some Easter candy from their baskets. With a piece of chocolate in her mouth, and an upset look on her face, Madison starts a conversation with me about some of the hard truths that life has to offer. Here is what took place...

Madison: Mom, I don't think the Easter Bunny is real.

Mom: Why?

Madison: Because the same candy that the Bunny put in our Easter baskets was the same as the candy YOU put in the eggs for our egg hunt.

Mom: (cringing, realizing I wasn't on top of my Easter Bunny game this year) You are right Maddie, some of the candy was the same, and sometimes that happens. (at this point I'm hoping that will suffice, and we'll continue eating candy)

Madison: Mom, (now with a very stern sound to her voice) is the Easter Bunny real?

Mom: Madison, come with me for a minute. (I took her by the hand and quickly walked into her room hoping that the other kids wouldn't grasp the seriousness of the conversation)

Once into the bedroom, Maddie and I sat on her bed as I explained, the best I could, that the Easter Bunny indeed was not real. But that it's something fun to believe in.

Madison at this point starts to cry and acts very confused. As she sits crying in my arms, I looked at her face, and saw a look in her eyes that told me this conversation was not ending there.

Madison: So Mom, if the Easter Bunny isn't real, and you and dad put the candy and stuff in our baskets, then what about the presents from Santa at Christmas?

Mom: (Quickly diverting my eyes away from hers, I didn't quite know what to say. Realizing that this is a big thing in my little girls life, and is one of those steps that everyone goes through when "growing up". I sat silent.)

Madison: Mom! (madison says again, this time with sobs coming from her little body) IS SANTA REAL?

Mom: (big swallow) No Madison, Santa is not real. (this is were I should have been able to console her and tell her that everything was going to be all right, but instead I had to hold back from laughing...)

Madison: (throwing herself back on her bed, arms in the air as only my 8 year Madison can) Mom, you and Dad have lied to me!

Mom: Uuhhhhh? Well.....

For the next 10 minutes, I tried explaining why mom and dad haven't been lying, and why it's okay that she's believed in Santa, and the Easter Bunny, and why she should keep it fun for the other kids. Although, thinking about it, I'm wondering if I want to go through this again with our other kids? But, I guess that's just part of being a parent, and having your kids grow up.

Once Madison got it together, we stood up to walk out of her room. She turned and looked at me and had one final question....

Madison: So mom, are you the Tooth Fairy, too?

Mom: I am Maddie.

Madison: (with a grin on her face) You better give me 20 bucks next time in my tooth fairy pillow!

Oh, how quick the recovery and how fast she learns to manipulate...

I'll be back!

2008-03-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

OK, it's been sometime since I've blogged. Sorry to all of you who check my boring blog page regularly. I do have a somewhat crazy and fun life that I could blog about, but I find there are not enough hours in a day, or week, or month for that matter. Don't give up on me all together...I'll be back soon with some new stuff for ya'll. Lots of love from OK, Jme

You're not going to win, are you?

2008-02-13T07:40:00.000-08:00

All of my joy and small success I have gotten from running, I owe a large part to one of my best friends, Rachel. It was she, during Medical School years, that took me from merely a girl running with old lawn mowing tennis shoes, to the woman that I am today, having completed many races (something I didn't even know existed), bought countless pairs of "running shoes", found a good stride, learned how to breath while holding a competitive pace, learned that running with friends means cutting back on pace and just enjoying the company, and a myriad of other well learned lessons, including how to accomplish goals. Goals not only in running, but in life.
Yesterday I was digging through my recipe box, trying to conjure up something fantastic for dinner, and came across one of my first "real" race finishing time cards. What a better place for a time card than a recipe box, eh? As I pulled out the card, I remembered everything about that race. It was a 10k, my first. I remember about three miles in, and I thought I was going to die. It was early in the morning, the sun was coming up over the beautiful Utah mountains, and there was frost on the ground, still. I could see my breath and all I could do was focus on the pack of women in front of me(who must have been at least 20 years my senior), and try to keep them in view so that somehow their strength would pull me across the finish line. Needless to say, I finished. I finished with a time of 8:49 minute mile, for a total of 54:52. I just had to let out a laugh when I saw that. For at that time, I thought I was the shiz for completing such a feat. Which leads me to why I'm writing this post...
I started to train the beginning of January for the Oklahoma Memorial Marathon. After about three weeks of training, I bagged it, and thought the 1/2 Marathon would be a more realistic goal considering I was only about five months post partum. My neighbor across the street (also training for the Marathon), asked me the other day how training was going. I told him the truth; I can't run a Marathon knowing that I'm not physically where I need to be. I started training not being able to run an 8 minute mile without wanting to fall of the treadmill. My lungs hurt. My legs felt cramped, and I could feel the "extra baggage" on my body jiggle with each step I took. I haven't been speed training (fartleking, for all you runners), doing any distance runs, or changed to my running diet menu within the last year. So, until I can get my same time, or get a better time than the last, it's not going to happen. That's when he asked me, "It's not like you're going to win, are you?". That made me think, why run a marathon, or why do anything worth doing for that matter, if you're not going to give it your all? I'm not going to go out and run 26.2 miles for the heck of it, or just to say I can do it. Anyone can run a marathon. Anyone can do a lot of things. But I believe that old saying, that if there's anything worth doing, it's worth doing right.
So, from my 8:49 minute miles back in the day, to my current 6:48 minute miles, I am determined to always strive to be better. To show my kids that if you give your best, you'll never regret the outcome. And that even though, you may not win, it doesn't hurt to try!

There's a Doctor in the house....

2008-01-29T11:25:00.000-08:00

Some times it doesn't seem real to me that we are done with the Medical School days, and are now livin' the dream as Medical Residents in Oklahoma. This being said, it's been a long road, and it's not over yet. I have to take a moment and brag about my hubby.
Jeff is specializing in Radiology. For him, it was something he fell in love with early on and actually stuck with it all through school. So now, his days are filled with reading CT scans, MRI, and doing things like swallow studies, biopsies, and Hysterosalpingogram. Look that last one up if you're interested, it's not Jeff's favorite thing to do. Anyway, since resident salaries aren't too competitive (Raising four kids on it is like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole), Jeff has picked up some good paying moonlighting shifts in an Emergency Room, about an hour and a half away. Before starting the ER moonlighting, Jeff was not the most comfortable with the situation since ER is nowhere near his field of expertise. However, he said that he'd be all right working in the ER, as long as his worst nightmare didn't arrive. That worst nightmare being in a situation where he would have to intubate someone.
Last Friday night, Jeff picked up a 6pm-6am shift, and all was going well. Just basic stuff coming in, you know, sore throat, high fever kiddos, few cuts and scrapes that needed some stitching, but all around "manageable stuff". To bad that stuff didn't last all night. Around 2am Jeff's worst nightmare came true. A lady came in with Emphysema. To make a long story short, Jeff knew that for how hard she was breathing and how labored it became, he had to intubate her. I don't mean to know anything about this sort of procedure. I only know that it requires a lot of medication, paralyzing the person, and then sticking a breathing tube down their throat, into the right tube, with the result of having this tube take over the breathing for the patient. I probably make it sound very basic when it is anything but, and a huge risk for anyone to take. I am happy to report that, on his first attempt, Jeff got this women intubated without complications. He followed procedures perfectly, and in the end had some very impressed nurses and ER staff. So hats of to my hubby! I am continually amazed at his knowledge and skill, not only because his radiology books when read, have me speaking a foreign language, but also because he can put his knowledge to use at a moments notice and save lives. Way to go babe!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL!

2008-01-10T12:13:00.000-08:00

Madison is turning 8! Happy Birthday to our beautiful girl! Here's 8 things about our new "tween" girl:

1.Madison is a great example
2.She loves being with her friends and playing football in the front yard
3.She wants to work hard in soccer so she can play in college
4.Anything from High School Musical or Hannah Montana is right up her ally
5.She is a sassy dresser, and doesn't care about mixing stripes with polka dots
6.She does her own hair....very well I might add!
7.She plays the piano with grace and spunk
8.She is smart and loyal...great at keeping secrets!

We are grateful for Madison being part of our family. Happy Birthday Girl!

70 degrees in January?

2008-01-10T12:08:00.000-08:00

No kidding, 70's in January. I had Jeff snap a picture of me giving Annie a bath in this beautiful weather. Does it get any better?

This Boy Makes Me Melt....

2008-01-10T11:54:00.000-08:00

Ethan can be the most trying little kid I've come across. He certainly makes me ask myself, "What am I doing wrong?". At those times, when I feel like I'm failing as a mom, I have to remember that even though I've got a little guy that tests me in every possible way, I've also got a little guy that loves me in every possible way. At the end of the day, we may not always see eye to eye, but we do know that we love each other.

Anyone In Need of a Monkey?

2008-01-10T11:39:00.000-08:00

Jennifer-Kate has a serious obsession for climbing. She climbs the fridge (see below), bookshelves, counter tops, the treadmill, door ways, fire place mantel, and everything in between. Talk about a child keeping you on your toes. Amongst her climbing every thing in sight, she is a pint-sized bottle of fun! Jeff adores his little fireball. Jennifer-Kate's whole day culminates to the time when Jeff walks through the door from work. She races to the door with hugs and kisses for her dad. She has the great ability to make us laugh....kinda like her dad. Here's a few photos of our little goof ball.

Little Charlie

2008-01-08T12:06:00.000-08:00

It seems it's been awhile since I've posted anything about our little Charlie. He's nearly five months old now, and is such a little wonder! He seems to have an endless amount of smiles and giggles bursting from his little baby body. There's nothing like a baby smiling at you to make you feel great! At five months, there's no milestones yet to report on, other than he has found that sucking on his fingers can be quite satisfying. However, I don't think that qualifies as a "milestone". Charlie is loved much by us all. Here are a few pics of the little man.

Need Some Inspiration?

2007-12-02T19:05:00.001-08:00

A friend of mine recently started a Family Home Evening blog site. For those of you who aren't Latter Day Saints (mormon), Family Home Evening is something we do as a family every Monday night. It's just good time spent with family which usually involves a lesson that teaches about the gospel of Jesus Christ. My kiddos usually look forward to the treat which follows Family Night, but who wouldn't? I think that no matter how hectic life can seem, at least once a week we can come together and talk about something that teaches us to become better people. Enjoy the site!

www.fhelessonswap.blogspot.com

Jeff Visits Mecca...or Dallas Cowboy Stadium

2007-10-28T19:50:00.000-07:00

Jeff and his brother Jason planned a football weekend in mid September. They went to a local game here in OK, and then traveled to Dallas, Texas to see their beloved Dallas Cowboys. It was even sweeter to see Dallas win! I've decided that "football weekend" is something Jeff and Jason should do every year.

HAPPY 30th JEFF!!!!

2007-10-28T19:41:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to Jeff! After a morning of sleeping in and breakfast in bed, Jeff enjoyed a round of golf with his dad at one of the local golf courses. After golfing, we all ate some yummy food at Pei Wei and then went home for cake and ice cream, and of course, presents!

Charlie's Blessing

2007-10-28T19:30:00.000-07:00

We were lucky enough to have Grandpa Nackos come in town for Charlie's baby blessing. We named our Charlie after his Grandpa Charlie. So it was nice to have his namesake in town for such a special event! I'm lucky to have such a great father-in-law!

Kiddo Craziness!!!!

2007-10-20T20:40:00.001-07:00

Since moving to Oklahoma, we got a house, got a dog, and got another kid. And since then, our definition of "normal" has changed yet again. Sometimes Jeff and I look at our lives, and wonder, in between High School and now, how did we get to the now??? Somehow though, amongst all the craziness and mishaps, we am surviving. And at the end of the day, I still kiss my sleeping kids cheeks, and whisper "I love you" in their ears. Here's a look at what's been going on in our neck of the woods lately.

Charlie

2007-10-17T20:02:00.000-07:00

I can't believe our last kiddo is all ready two months old! He's a cutie! Loved by us all. He loves to be on his belly, sit in his bouncer chair, and smile at his mom. He's just started giggling, which is always cuter than you remember it from your last kiddo. His hair is fun, with a bit of wave to it, and it gets spiked with gel daily. He's a stud all ready! Weighing in at 14 lbs at two months old....he is my biggest baby! He is adorable! But doesn't every parent think there kiddo is adorable? (he really is, i promise)

Ethan....Still Making His Way

2007-10-17T19:51:00.000-07:00

Our little Ethan. I like to think of the Survivor theme "Outwit, Outlast, Outplay", when I think of Ethan. Mind boggling as our little guy may be, I'm glad that he's my little guy. One thing that I love about Ethan, is that he loves his sisters. He and Jennifer-Kate are buddies. He looks up to Madison, but also chooses to drive her crazy at times. I realized that my little boy is growing up when I took his "first day of school" picture on our front porch just a few months ago. School already? Man, time flies.

On The Road Again...

2007-10-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

It's been too long since my last run, I always tell myself. Since having Charlie, I've laced up my running shoes and have gotten back out on the road. My pace is a little slower than usual, and my muscles are a little tight. I know my old body will come back into view before too long, I hope. In the meantime, I'll get out there and do what I love and feels good, that's to run. This time around, I have a friend by my side in the form of a dog. That feels good too. I love to have a running buddy that can always keep up with me...at least for the first three miles :)

You Go Girl!

2007-10-16T20:50:00.000-07:00

Madison is growing up so fast these days. From first crushes to her favorite pop star, Hannah Montana, I am grateful for the moments that she puts her arms around me and tells me that I'm the greatest. Ten years from now, I expect to her to tell me the same thing. This is Madison catching the last bit of summer, playing in our backyard.

Potty Time?

2007-10-16T20:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are surviving! It seems that everything comes at once around here lately. Jennifer-Kate decided she no longer was going to wear a diaper (or her clothes for that matter) after Charlie entered our family. So, like it or not, we had to prepare ourselves for accidents, and bed sheet changes amongst newborn diaper changes every hour. But to our surprise, our little Jennifer had herself potty trained in a few days. Thank heavens she made it easy on us! Now she sports a cute pair of barbie undies, and looks so dang cute in them!

Planting our first tree

2007-10-16T20:38:00.000-07:00

We decided to plant a tree! Our yard needed something. Jeff and I thought a nice addition would be a beautiful maple tree that turns red in the fall....something to remind us of Utah. It also was a big hit with the neighborhood, as all the boys showed up to help dig the hole.

More baby pictures

2007-08-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

Proud mama.

Nameless Nackos Baby Enters World!

2007-08-18T08:49:00.000-07:00

Baby boy Nackos was born on 8/17/07 at 8:27 pm. At 8 lbs. 0 oz. and 20 1/2 inches long mom is glad she didn't have to wait another week to have him. Name to follow.

I'm knitting!

2007-07-23T20:19:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite things to do is knit! Here is my latest completed project, a sweater for our little guy. As mentioned in the 10 things about me, one of my favorite colors is green...didn't it knit up beautifully? My next project is in the works....pictures will follow!

Me, in all my (Pregnant) glory!

2007-07-23T20:12:00.000-07:00

You asked for it! Okay, not all of you asked for it. But here it is none the less! Everyday, just about, I go swimming with the kids at our neighborhood pool. I sport a swirling retro style bikini, and let my belly show. I get some weird looks from the neighborhood kids, and some great comments from the local moms. Over all, I love having a tan belly when I deliver, and it gives people something to talk about. I love it!

Our first weeks in Oklahoma...

2007-07-23T19:43:00.001-07:00

So here we are, out in the country, that is, Oklahoma. Isn't it pretty? Trying to make it our home. I hope you enjoy the journey with us.

Out for a Sunday drive to find the local Berry Picking Farm, and we came across some Oklahoma wildlife. I know they are pretty small, but we managed to capture some little hopping frogs on the side of the road. The kids had a great time holding them, even Jennifer-Kate. Her frog was to fast and so we didn't get a picture for her. Maddie and Ethan managed to wrangle theirs pretty good.

There was a wandering turtle, too. We caught it trying to cross a dirt road, and picked it up for the kids to see. It got scared though, and hid in its shell the whole time.
We visited the local Farmer's Market. We bought yummy tomatoes, and picked up a common food that's pretty "uncommon" to us westerners....Okra. After having it as a side dish for dinner, everyone agreed, mom needs to learn how to cook GOOD okra.
We moved, got a house, and a dog. What a combo! The only thing Jennifer-Kate loves more than her mom.....the dog. Annie is the first thing she wants to see in the morning, and the last thing she wants to see at night. Oklahoma's going good for all of us!

2007-07-14T20:55:00.002-07:00

Oklahoma...here we come!

We started our new adventure here in Oklahoma! Thanks to the crew that moved us in, we have rooms painted, grass groomed, and things in order....sort of. While parents were in town, we visited the National Cowboy Museum, and the Oklahoma City Zoo. We know our adventures have just begun as we look around and see no mountains in sight, but also hear a different drawl to everyone's speech. Like it or not, here we go!

Before Oklahoma, there was Utah...

2007-07-14T20:55:00.001-07:00

We started our move off with saying goodbye to Spokane, and staying a few weeks in Utah. Let see, there were cousins, cousins, and oh, more cousins. The kids had a blast! It was sad to leave such a great family at the end of our three week stay!