Here WE Are....

New Blog Trial!

2011-01-18T13:40:00.000-08:00

I am horrible about blogging, and I hope I can continue to post things here.
My focus this year will be on my new blog: home-madehealth.blogspot.com. Here, I will be documenting our journey as we continue to clean out our cupboards and fridge and fill it back up with healthier items. You can read my story and why I am doing this on my new blog. I would love to hear from you! Hopefully you will check it out and find some of the info useful!

Potty Traning can be fun!

2010-09-08T12:31:00.000-07:00

When Tyler got a bag of clothes from his cousin, Blake, he was so excited to see the Goofy and Mickey underwear. I told him that he couldn't wear them until he went on the potty. I put him on there, and although he screamed, he went. The funny thing is though, there were also a pair of Lightning McQueen snow boots. He likes those equally as well as the underwear. So, when he goes...the boots go too. It's getting a little tiresome lifting him up and making sure he is comfortable with his boots on, but oh well. I am letting it slide. We just sit and wait for him to do his business and read books and sing songs. Besides sitting on the bathroom floor next to him (this is where he tells me to stay), I am rather enjoying myself.

Maybe the more kids you have, the less you care about accidents and get over the fact that it's not gonna be perfect for a few days. I am surprised I haven't lost my temper and just end up laughing every time he says "No pee-pee carpet Mom!!"

I Love To Run....thought I'd try it in the dark

2010-08-29T13:49:00.000-07:00

Me glowing in the dark before the race

Victoria and I, with tyler in the background.
Jocelyn and I. She was so excited to see me leave the start line.

All of us before I left.

I have always liked running, but never thought I was very good at it. I look back over my life and see how negative self-talk has limited me from so much I could have tried or done, but thought (for one reason or another) that I couldn't ever do it.

In January, I started running more. I found a girl from church who was looking for a running partner and we started to run longer distances on Saturdays. I still remember the first time I ran 10 miles. It was something I never thought I could ever do. When I finished, I cried because I was so proud of myself, yet so upset that it had taken me so long to TRY! Once I did, it was rewarding. I ran my first 10k in April, my first half marathon on May 30th, the day after my 31st birthday, and I ran my second half on Friday night.

It was a moonlight half marathon. All the runners were decorated with glow in the dark "stuff" and the winner of the run was the one who crossed the finish line at midnight. You could start anytime you wanted after 9 pm and there were different groups leaving every 5 minutes. We started up in the canyon by my house and then finished in a huge park in Mapeleton. I didn't finish at midnight, but I did beat my last time.

I couldn't believe that I ran better in the dark, at night, then I do during the day. It was a beautiful run with a full moon. All you could see running through the canyon was the moon and whatever was glowing in the dark. The kids loved watching me leave. It was a really special family thing for us. I am so greatful for a supportive husband and loving children who cheer me on daily. I am so blessed!

Our House

2010-08-29T13:41:00.000-07:00

Our house

Our kitchen

The garden we share with our neighbors

Our Deck off the back of the house

I thought I would put a few pictures of the house we are renting in Springville. We love living here because:

we are close to the canyon...just minutes away from the river, parks, and awesome trails

the kids love watching the deer in our yard

we have an entire cul-de-sac basically to ourselves

we have GORGOUS views and kind neighbors

we are more removed than we ever have been, so I am staying home more....

Changes

2010-07-30T15:19:00.000-07:00

There is a lot that has happened in my life since my last post in January. I would spend days making entries with pictures about everything that has gone on in our lives since then, but I am trying to simplify my life and I don't see how that would help any. We were busy. Looking back on the last six months, I can truly say I can't believe how much was going on. Between weekly weddings, teaching music two days a week, running the girls around to dance, piano, and various other activities, taking care of a toddler, working with the young women at church and all our other responsibilities, there really wasn't much time for much else. I wanted to blog, I wanted to cook more, I wanted to be more crafty and learn new things, I wanted to sit down a read a book, I wanted to be a better mother, I wanted to be a better wife, but then again, I guess I thought there wasn't enough time to do it all because I was stretched so thin.
So, here I am six months later, living in Springville Utah and finally feeling some much needed peace. I quit my job at the school, I passed on most of my scheduled weddings to my aunt, David left his job, we sold our home that we worked soo hard on, and moved. Here we are renting a beautiful home against the Hobble Creek Canyon and David has started his new job as physical therapy director of a triatholon training gym. We miss the beach, our family, and friends, but feel that this is where our family needs to be for now.
I look back at the whirlwind of half-a-year and think, I don't want to be soo busy anymore that I can't take time to be that better person, the better wife the better mother....the better version of myself. I WILL be those things and much more. I am commited to being a better ME. Enjoy my blog as I try to redefine myself and what truly makes me happy, what stretches me and helps me grow, and what brings me daily peace.

What Do You Do On A Rainy Afternoon?

2010-01-20T15:36:00.001-08:00

Wednesday and Thursday afternoons are pretty slow around our house, because those are the days I teach music at the elementary school and am usually pretty exhausted after 5 hours of singing, dancing, trying to get 4o kids at a time to be on the right beat with their instrument....and with the rain that started right after school got out...I knew we would be spending this afternoon inside. Here is what we like to do:Jocelyn likes to play with all her purses
Jocelyn likes to count all her purses and make sure she has enough junk for every possibly situation that may occur while we are home. That even includes hiding in a dark room, going through the trash (which she knows she shouldn't do because its gross, and taking thing out to stuff in her purses)
Tyler tries to give himself a snack because I am trying to have a 5 minute break to myself.

Victoria likes to be a couch potato, eat a bag of pita chips (that is what is in the background) and watch lots of t.v. She likes to veg when there is no ballet, tap, jazz, or piano class to go to.

Happy Birthday Cory!

2010-01-19T20:14:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my brother, Cory's birthday. He is in Nigeria right now working on a new project with the Nigerian government/parliment that will help to restructure villages around the country. He is doing amazing things! I miss him....but know that he truly is changing lives. You can see his African travel if you click on the link on the right hand side of my blog, under family, that says Cory. Happy Birthday Bro! I love you and miss you, but am so proud of you.Cory, Jenna, Me and David, Lauren (before she had her baby) and Todd

I have a new love!

2010-01-19T20:09:00.000-08:00

So, David and I have been trying to eat really healthy. We are eating a lot of fruits and veggies and very little meat these days. On Sunday, David's sister cooked quinoa! Have you ever tried it? If not, you should! I have wanted to for a very long time, but just haven't gotten around to it. She cooked it in her rice cooker with chicken broth and served it just like rice. It was a lot of protein and is supposedly one of the best things you can give your body. The picture below is of a breakfast quinoa bowl I will be trying soon. Try it out and let me know. Click HERE to try the recipe yourself.

Has it really been two months?

2010-01-10T21:08:00.000-08:00

November and December have been very busy. Here are highlights, most recent first:

My brother Todd and his wife Lauren welcomed baby #2, Tasha Joy into the world on December 28th...a day before Victoria's 7th birthday.

Santa sent the Hunts to Disneyland for three days, including Christmas Day itself. Jocelyn was thrilled to be in Disneyland on her birthday (and Christmas day which is by far the CRAZIEST day of the entire year.) Here we are at Goofy's kitchen..where you get to have breakfast with Disney Characters. Victoria said that this was one of the best days of her life.

Christmas Day- Happy Birthday Jocelyn! She sported a shiny birthday crown, pink boots,birthday jewelry and a red "It's My Very Merry Birthday" shirt that my friend, Trina, embroidered for her.

December 18th - Our 10 year wedding anniversary! WOW! What a lot we've done in ten years. We got to celbrate with two nights away at the La Costa Resort and Spa (without kids). I highly recommend it to anyone!

We spent ten days during Thanksgiving in Colorado with David's sister, Elizabeth and her family. We really had a wondeful trip and miss them so much.

LION KING!

2009-11-07T22:12:00.000-08:00

So, I know I am cheesy...but watching Lion King with my family was one of the neatest things I have experienced! My parents took my brothers, sister & sis-in-law, kids, husband and I to see the play of Lion King that is showing down in San Diego. David's sister watched Tyler and we went to a 2:00 show and had dinner at Bucca De Beppo afterwards. What an amazing show! Victoria was mesmerized. How the actors portray the animals and the scenery was amazing. It truly was a beautiful stage production and I highly recommend it to anyone who has the chance. It was fun to be with my family and to experience this with them. I forgot how much this story reminds us about family and that we have to stick together. Thanks Mom and Dad...it was AWESOME!

Kindergarten Visit!

2009-11-04T15:27:00.000-08:00

So, on the back of my truck, I have my website listed: www.harpsdesire.com. Occasionally, I will get a call from someone that saw my address on my truck. A few weeks ago I got an email from a mom who wanted me to come and play for her daughter's kindergarten class for her birthday. Her birthday was Friday, October 30th. I decided it would be a fun birthday surprise for this little girl and a good way to make a little money (I didn't charge her my normal hourly fee of ***.**) I showed up to the school, dressed all fancy, and I felt like a celebrity. This little girl could have asked for a princess to come to her school, but instead her dream was to see a harpist! What a rewarding 30 minutes. All the kids got to touch the harp and I played several Disney selections and ended with my own rendition of"Happy Birthday!"
Some weeks, I get really stressed out trying to write all my lesson plans for teaching music at Victoria's school and worried about the big performance we will have next month (with all 300 children), but it is a an awesome thing to expose these little kids to the power and the magic of learning about notes, instruments, beat, rhythm, and just how to express themselves through a way, other than watching TV, playing video games, getting frustrated and angry or being completely introverted.
When I was teaching one of the Special Ed. classes "Catch a Falling Star" and this little severely autistic boy looked right at me and started to sing, I knew what I was doing at that moment was important. This little boy lives in a world where he can't communicate, he can't sit and experience life the way the other children do, but boy, when I started singing that song, somewhere in his brain, he recognized it and sang the whole thing while having eye contact with me.....that is a first for him in two months! Music is so powerful for children.....My life is crazy and hectic, but I love what I do and I wouldn't trade it for a second. Yes, I am getting paid a little bit every week to be at the school, but I would be there even if I wasn't.

Time Goes By Quickly

2009-10-28T16:17:00.000-07:00

This last month has been crazy...teaching school two days a week, soccer games (and a wedding) EVERY Saturday, and planning a huge night for the Young Women at church. I did manage to get away with one of my best friends in the whole world, Trina. We have known each other since birth and have grown up together. Celebrating us both turning 30, we decided to get away for a night and head to the Rancho Bernardo Inn. Trina has stayed here several times...and I have only played for weddings here.. It is so lovely, fancy, quiet and quaint all at once. We spent the day at their brand new spa (something I have NEVER done before). I felt spoiled and wonderful all at the same time! We slept in, ate out, relaxed, got a massage (AWESOME!!!!) and swam in a private salt water pool. Thanks David for watching the kids and letting me relax. Boy...I needed that one. I feel like I run on overdrive all the time! Happy Birthday Trina...Thanks for taking me along!

WOW!

2009-09-28T20:33:00.000-07:00

This week I have my friend, Julie Stainbrook staying with me again. Even though she moved to Utah in the summer, she still has MANY clients down here and will be coming every six weeks or so to do some photo shoots. Today she took pictures of my little sister Jenna. All I can say is WOW! I can't believe how beautiful they came out! Julie your ability to capture to true beauty in people is amazing, and Jenna, you are BEAUTIFUL. I can't believe you will be 16 next year. You are such a blessing in my life. Thanks for all the babysitting you do for me. I couldn't imagine my life with out you in it. You bring so much joy and happiness to others. And....you love who you are. It shows in all you do......Just look at yourself in these pictures....it's nice to see a beautiful daughter of God who is confident with who she is and isn't afraid to be herself. I love you Jenna!
You can see all of my sister's sneak peak at: www.juliestainbrookphotography.blogspot.com

I suck at blogging

2009-09-19T20:58:00.000-07:00

Victoria's first day of first grade at her new school (I started here in first grade also)

Jocelyn ALWAYS finds time to dress up, put on makeup (even when I say no), and always has a purse packed with junk...she is our little pack rat.(she really does take stuff from the trash)

Tyler is obsessed with four things: cupcakes, animals, cars and balls.

Notice the pizza sauce smeared in his hair. After this picture, he climbed ON the table and was throwing pieces of his pizza everywhere.

I always say I am going to get better at blogging, and then it just doesn't happen. Life is hectic and crazy as usual and I just added more choas by adding a part time job teaching music at Tori's school. I teach k-2nd grade music ten hours a week at Monte Vista Elementary. I am really excited, just stressed as I try to make up lesson plans and activities for all the different grades, plus four special ed classes. There are curriculum guidelines I have to follow and the principal wants a full winter performance in December before the break. Notice I say "Winter;" Songs about snowmen, jack frost, snowflakes...all the things that San Diego children see LOTS of (yeah right). No Jingle Bells, Silent Night, Away in the Manger.....actually I don't think I can even sing songs with the word "ghost" or "witch" in it at Halloween. It's pretty sad, but nevertheless, I still have a big performance to come up with. So with that, a church calling, both the girls in soccer, Tori's piano lessons and three dance classes a week, Jocelyn's dance, watching my niece on Monday's and weddings on the weekend, the Hunts are a busy group. Tyler is a full time job in itself. Here he is, doing what he does best: eating and making a mess. I can't keep up with this boy. His overhand throw is just getting stronger (especially with strawberries across the kitchen) and his purposeful attempts to pull the girls hair and hit them with things until they cry just baffles me....Hope we can all hang in there! Maybe one day I'll learn to take it easy....but probably not!

Cheap Books!

2009-08-25T21:29:00.001-07:00

I LOVE Free Stuff! These books aren't free, but pretty close. I am buying some now to save as Christmas presents for the girls:
Go HERE to BARGAIN BOOKS for the juvenile fiction sale.
Use this code to hopefully get your free shipping: BKLVFREE

Artisan Bread

2009-08-25T15:03:00.000-07:00

Why Go To Panera?

Ok...so I love to make bread, but usually just do my same recipe, which takes about three hours of "love" to make. My uncle has been telling me that I should try his bread recipe. I finally tried it, because if he could do it, I knew it must be a piece of cake....or bread for that matter. Here's what you do:

In a bowl, add:

3 cups flour

1/4 tsp yeast

1 1/4 tsp salt

1 1/2 cup water

Mix and put in covered bowl for 8-10 hrs

Pre heat pan and lid to 475 (pot roast)

Roll dough in flour on counter

Cook 30 min covered

Cook 5-10 uncovered until brown then cool on rack

Here's what I did differently: I added cornmeal to the bottom of the bread and because I wasn't sure what kind of pot to use, I made a water bath to put in the bottom of my oven (fill a 13x9 pan with a few cups of water to heat up with the oven. It will create steam, just like the lid on the pot will do). I just used a non-stick cookie sheet to put the bread on. Also, I didn't cook it long enough, so it didn't get super crunchy on the outside and was a tad bit doughy on the inside, but everyone said they liked it this way. We served it with fresh tomatoes and basil on it. Yum and it it beats the cost of buying a loaf at Panera.

ENJOY!

(Picture Courtesy of Julie Stainbrook...it's great when a photographer stays at your house...you get awesome pics. every day)

Peanut Butter Fun

2009-08-12T20:12:00.000-07:00

Tyler has been really sick the last few days and today he was really fussy. We decided to spend the day at home. I was trying to think of something fun to do...something new. I got online and found a recipe for peanut butter playdough. It was so much fun. The kids were eating, shaping, eating some more, and cutting it with cookie cutters! It didn't make a mess and wasn't sticky. Tyler loved it to. It got us through the morning instead of watching T.V. and got them through to lunch!

Recipe:

3.5 Cups Peanut Butter

4 Cups Powdered Sugar

A few drizzles of honey until it's smooth. Stir and enjoy!

Keep wrapped when not using.

Boys will be Boys!

2009-08-11T09:03:00.000-07:00

So yesterday we had no power all day. It was a good lesson for the girls to learn. No power means no T.V., no radio, no homemade bread we were planning on making (and no blow dryer for mommy)... We had dinner at my parents and when we came home at 8:00 pm, it was finally back on. The trucks from the electric company were still there working on the power lines. (we were one of the few lucky houses whose power came back early...the other 250 people were still out of luck). I got home (David was still at the community college helping with sport's physicals for the fall) and unloaded the kids and all my stuff from the day. Once I was finally inside, I realized that Tyler was not in with the girls. I panicked because I REALLY couldn't find him anywhere. I ran outside and sure enough he was still standing by my truck (at least 5 minutes later). He was fascinated by the big work trucks and the bright lights set up across the street. I picked him up and he kept pointing at the big trucks and grunting. He didn't want to leave. We stood there for a few minutes more, and I realized that it really doesn't take much to make him happy. Boys are so less complicated than girls. It's such a refreshing change from the girls fighting over dress up clothes and crying because they can't have MORE lip gloss on before bed. Don't get me wrong... I LOVE my girls, but I also love the change of pace that little boys bring. Yeah, Tyler's crazy and has learned how to pull the girls hair, hit people with his plastic hammer, and throw strawberries overhand across the room, but he also likes to stand and look at electric trucks. It was nice to share that simple moment with a 14 month old. I need to have (and ENJOY) more moments like this....

Fun In The Sun

2009-07-29T08:56:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been a blast but have flown by so quickly. I love summer, because all of our family who we don't see much during the year, comes out and we get to PLAY! David's sister, Elizabeth (and her three boys) was here for the last two weeks from Colorado. WE swam, played at the beach, shopped, hung out, and just enjoyed the time with her. Here are some highlights of her time here:

Liz and I at the Moonlight Amphitheater in Vista watching 42nd Street.

David's Sister, Colleen, his mother, Liz and Me.

Victoria and Jocelyn with their cousin Nathan at the Vista Pioneer Day Celebration.

Tyler running around at the beach. He has finally left my lap and started playing. He loves SAND

Tyler....What else can I say....He is the sweetest boy I know. I just love him

Victoria finally lost her tooth. It was a long 7 days of crying and whining before it came out

Victoria loved playing with her cousins at the beach. She misses them already

Jocelyn loving the beach!

Tyler and his cousin Blake at a family party! These are the two youngest Hunt grandkids!

David and his sister, Liz and all our kids. What a fun few weeks we had with them here!

Crazy Summer Life, but feeling GREAT!

2009-07-14T14:51:00.000-07:00

So, here I am again. I can't believe it has been so long since I have posted anything. I really don't even have any pictures to share. David was out of town last week for a conference and will be leaving again on Thursday for another work weekend. The kids and I have been swimming, going to the beach, trying to keep the house from looking utterly chaotic, and just trying to enjoy summer.

I have enjoyed not having to get Victoria ready for school every day and just having lazy mornings.

Last week, I actually did a 6 day cleanse. I followed a schedule with organic fruits and unsweetened juices, carrot soup, liquid cholophyl (its basically plant juice), aloe vera juice, and a few other things. It really was a great experience, hard, but really good. I learned a lot about myself and how my life has seemed to revolve around food. During the week, I actually lost all cravings for anything and feel really alert. I don't remember a time never EVER having a craving for chocolate or sugar...this must be a first!

Yesterday was my first day actually chewing something again. It is nice to have so much energy and feel so good.

And now I am really trying to eat natural foods (whole wheat flour, agave necatar instead of syrup and sugar and whole grains) and make snacks for my kids that are not junk and processed. I found this really great website with really good snack ideas. http://www.hungry-girl.com/. What a great idea! I love her slogan: Tips and Tricks for Hungry Chicks! Enjoy.

Also, if any of you are like me and LOVE peanut butter, but wish it wasn't filled with junk and didn't have so many calories, this one is for you. I think I will go to Trader Joes and try it tomorrow. They even sell a chocolate one!: www.betternpeanutbutter.com

Hope you are having a wonderful day!

Day Thirty

2009-06-30T21:23:00.000-07:00

Taste of Tuesday:

Tonight I had all the young women over from church to my house and we had a going away party for my friend, Julie who is moving to Utah. She is a teacher for a group of the girls. It was a surprise, and she really was surprised. I had all the girls bring a treat to share that started with the letter "J". We had 18 different things: J cupcakes, jam cookies, juicy lemon bars, junior mints, juice, jam and bread, jicima and jicima dip. I made this Jello Pudding Chocolate Cake! It was amazing and you didn't even need to eat it with ice cream! It was fun to have a party with a letter themed food table. I was proud of the girls for being so creative!
You can find the recipe HERE:

Day Twenty Nine

2009-06-29T22:26:00.001-07:00

Monday's Miracle:

So, I missed yesterdays post. I was totally going to write about Jocelyn's adorable talk in Primary and our nice dinner at my parent's house celebrating Father's Day with them, and then I didn't. This time I have a great excuse. I actually slipped and fell at my parent's house on the hardwood floors, while holding Tyler, and banged up my elbow and sliced my big toe open. It is really painful and I can't put any pressure on it. It really sucks, but at least I fell on my elbows and protected my baby. It could have been really bad if I landed on him, or he fell and hit is head. So, I am grateful for that, but it still is a bummer to be in this much pain for just one toe. I cut through the whole calloused part of my toe. David had to clean it out last night. It was horrible. Guess no gym for me this week.....

So for today, I just wanted to post a sweet picture that Jocelyn drew for me. It says I love you Mom. She did her "M's" upside down and the "O" at the end instead of the middle. She knows how to write "MOM" but she likes to do her letters in her own way....you just have to get her to decode it for you. BUT it proves that even our most challenging child really does love us. I found this picture today while going through stacks of papers all over my house. It almost made me cry, just because we have been going through a pretty rough patch with her and both David and I have really been struggling on how to help her. She doesn't like that she is not the oldest, and that she doesn't get all the attention that Tyler gets. I realized, after I saw this picture today, that Jocelyn does love her Mommy, even if I am mean and not fair. I love her too, and know that we can get through this! Hope your Monday was wonderful!

I just opened her dance pictures. She really does look sweet. I will look at this picture every day to remind me.

Days Twenty Six and Twenty Seven

2009-06-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

Friday and Saturday:
The last two days have been CRAZY! The girls had their big dress rehersal and recital for their dance show. Last fall they started dancing at Katharine's Academy of Dance here in Vista. It is a great studio full of wonderful girls and fun moms. Both Victoria and Jocelyn have learned so much this year and are turning into wonderful little dancers. I was not prepared though for the extent of detail Miss Kathie wanted for the recital. Here is an example of all the extras: recital earings, hair piece for Victoria's tap dance, different tights for each dance, new ballet shoes for each girl, nex jazz shoes for Tori, the right shades of eye makeup and lipstick, hairnets, hair pins vs. bobby pins, two different types of buns for different dances, gloves, socks, headbands, attending a seminar to learn how to do the hair and makeup, and paying for extra dance classes for the DADDY/DAUGHTER dance. The dance with Victoria's class and all the Dad's was amazing and made me cry! The two months of rehersals paid off and their Hercules dance was a hit! WE ALL made it through and it turned out to be an AMAZING show!

Jocelyn ready to do her tap number to: The Little Duece Coupe

Victoria with her FAKE curls (which she loves) for her tap dance.

David and Victoria waiting to go on stage for their Daddy Daughter Hercules Dance.

Day Twenty Five

2009-06-25T19:49:00.000-07:00

Thoughts on Thursday:

So my friend Tracy is in town and it has been fun to hang out with her and her kids this week. She told me about this crockpot blog and so this morning, I finally checked it out! This woman is amazing. Last year she cooked a new recipe in her crockpot every day...that's 365 meals...no BBQ, no stove, no oven, just that thing that collects dust in the back of your bottom cabinet! I went through some of her recipes today and I am totally impressed. She is going to be on Rachel Ray in a few weeks and is just finishing her first cook book. Why can't I think of something like that? I can't even blog consecutively for 30 days, let alone think of a new crock pot dinner, or dessert, or appetizer, for every day of the year!
Now she is famous...and making money on her blog. Go figure...
Check IT out and try something. She has inspired me to start using my crockpot more. This is what I want to try first: BROWNIES.

Day Twenty Four

2009-06-24T20:30:00.001-07:00

What we're doing on Wednesday:

Today with both Tyler and my darling niece Ela asleep at the same time this afternoon, I decided to make homeade bread to go with our dinner. Jocelyn loves to help me cook. Since she was little, she would always want to sit on the counter and be right next to the mixing bowl. When she was 2 1/2 she knocked my old Bosch on the floor and cracked it. It was a sad day. You think I would have learned my lesson, but here she is right next to me all the time. She loves to help me make bread because she gets to let her own little loaf rise. I love making bread. It is rewarding and really satisfying to see the end result of what you have made. And, it makes a lot of people really happy.

So, today I am thank ful for a few things: nap time, my new (two years old) RED Bosch mixer, whole wheat flour, and little hands to help me make it....it tastes better that way.

Next week, I'll post my bread recipe

This is really one of my babies

Jocelyn loves to cook

The finish product! Yum!

Day Twenty Four

2009-06-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

Taste of Tuesday

2009-06-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

Taste of Tuesday:
For Father's Day, I found this yummy berry french toast dish that you bake in the oven. With all the fresh berries out right now, I had to try this. Enjoy!

Triple Berry French Toast

Ingredients

2 cups frozen blueberries
1 1/2 cups frozen blackberries
1 1/2 cups frozen raspberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cooking spray
1 cup fat-free milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large egg whites, lightly beaten
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 (8-ounce) loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch slices
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°.

Combine first 6 ingredients in a 13 x 9- inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.

Combine milk, vanilla, egg whites, and egg in a large, shallow baking dish, stirring well with a whisk. Add bread, turning to coat. Let stand 5 minutes, turning bread occasionally. Arrange bread in a single layer over berries. Sprinkle evenly with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Sprinkle evenly with powdered sugar.

Nutritional Information

6 servings
Calories:: 374
Fat:: 2.7g

Day Twenty Two

2009-06-22T22:28:00.000-07:00

Miracle of Monday:
Even though school ended on Wednesday, I feel like today marks the first day of summer for us. All the girls want to do is swim, but there are lots of things I have to get done to. So, I really need to work on finding a balance for everything that we want to do during the summer and the things I HAVE to do, like balance the checkbook, call brides and work on wedding contracts, grocery shop, take a shower, etc.
Today started off as I thought it might, the girls just wanting to watch TV all morning while I got all my HAVE TO DO stuff done. I decided that is not how I wanted to start the summer. We turned off the TV, Victoria practiced her piano (all by herself), the girls practiced some writing, they actually played in their room, and made a craft while Tyler was sleeping.
After that, they got their swimsuits on and we headed to Legoland for the last hour of the day, which is FREE. We went straight to the water play area and the kids had a blast, especially since they had friends here (Tracy and her kids) from Arizona.

It turned out to be a wonderful start of summer. I think a little organization will help me out. It is a miracle when I get all my HAVE TO DO stuff done and my kids are happy (and tired) at the end of the day. I also booked three bride appointments for weddings. That's pretty good for one day.
Jocelyn loves being in a swimsuit. She would wear one all the time if I let her.

Tori and her friend, Alyssa loving the water sprayer

Days Nineteen,Twenty & Twenty One

2009-06-22T13:40:00.000-07:00

"Mom, I really love my bow tie, that's not why I'm crying!"

I've got to get rid of the pacifier connecter....

David looking skinny with his new tool belt (he had lost at least 15 pound! Way to go honey!)

I always like a butt shot

David and the girls

Thoughts from the weekend:
This weekend was crazy for us. We had a birthday party for a friend, dance pictures for both the girls (which I have learned are really a HUGE deal for this studio) a wedding, a party for David's friend, Father's Day, church and a dinner at David's sister's house. I feel like the last three days really just blended together, because there was so much going on. It was nice yesterday morning to be home and enjoy the quiet morning. I made yummy triple berry french toast (which I will post tomorrow) and the girls gave David a few presents. He was wanted a tool belt ever since we started our house project. Now that we are done with the hard work, he finally got his belt. He loves it though. Victoria made him a tie out of paper, which we wore proudly to church yesterday!
Tyler had a rough day...cutting a few teeth at the same time. But I have to say that the bow tie my grandma bought him is really cute. My 12 year old cousin (maybe he's not 12?) has started selling bow ties. He has a sewer and picks out his fabrics. They are really great quality and Tyler looked so stinkin cute at church, despite his bad mood! Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and Father's Day.

Day Eighteen

2009-06-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

Victoria trying to give me the thumbs up!
The girls were so excited to each have their own 5 dollars!

Thursday's Thoughts:

Today was really a turning point for all of us. The last few times the girls have gotten their teeth cleaned.....let's just say it has been a nightmare. The sad part is that my mom is our dental hygentist. She is really good at what she does. However, the girls have seen her as the DEVIL TEETH CLEANER. The office my mom works for in Rancho Bernardo is really for the older crowd. The only kids that have their teeth cleaned there are my kids. We have to go in at lunch, as to not scare the old grandma getting fit for her dentures in the chair next to my mom's.

I was secretly dreading today...the tears, the screams, the, "I can't do this Mommy," and the, "I am just so sensitive Mommy," stuff.

Walking in to the office today was different! They were amazing. No tears...no fears, just good teeth cleaning going on!

Maybe it's that their older...or maybe because my mom bribed them each with 5 dollars if they would be brave and not cry for the 5 things she had to do to their teeth!

IT WORKED! It was amazing! It was brilliant.....I wonder how many years she will be giving them money to keep quiet..Maybe I should try it at home.

Day Seventeen

2009-06-17T22:09:00.000-07:00

What's Wonderful About Wednesday:

There is something special to be said about kindergarten. I still remember going, sitting at my desk, cutting, glueing, playing on the playground, and most of all my teacher, Ms. Sap. She was wonderful. She used to pick me up and take me square dancing and out for ice cream. I thought that was the coolest thing ever. Teachers really are amazing. They have such a profound impact on our children's lives. Victoria's teacher this year was no exception. I have known her since I was in elementary school. I can't believe my baby is now done with her first year of school. What a crazy year it has been! I am excited summer is here and excited not to have to get kids ready by a certain time every morning.

Happy Summer Everyone!Victoria and Mrs. Perkins at her graduation today.

Day 16

2009-06-16T22:01:00.000-07:00

Taste of Tuesday:

For today's recipe I am giving you what I did actually make for dinner, but I cleaned up everything before I took a picture. This is a recipe from David's mother, Wilma. Jocelyn loves it also! What a great way to use up all your zucchini from your garden (or in my case...from the produce store). It tastes great with homeade bread and a yummy spinach salad (which I will post next week).
Here is Zucchini Soup:

3 lbs zucchini chopped in 1 inch slices

2 t. salt

1 t. onion powder

1 t. garlic powder

1/8 t. white pepper

2 10 oz cans of chicken broth

1/2 C. water

Combine all and bring to a boil. Then cover and cook on medium heat for 10 minutes until zucchini is tender. Place small amounts in the blender and blend until smooth. Repeat until all soup is smooth.

Stir in 1 1/2 C. half-and-half.

This is a beautiful soup and really is yummy!
Enjoy

Day Fifteen

2009-06-15T14:03:00.000-07:00

Miracle of Monday:

Master Bathroom

Master Bedroom

Living Room

Kitchen

So, I missed yesterday...guess I'll have to do a few extra days to make up for it. My miracle today is that David and I have finally put most things away in our home. We didn't think this would happen for such a long time. This house will be a continual work in progress. At least in the inside, we have hung pictures and put things away. It is really a good feeling to sit and look around and not think of anything at the moment that has to be done. Stuff that didn't have a place, we have gotten rid of. It's nice to see empty wall space. Here we are in the middle of June, almost a year from when we made the original offer on this house....and we are just now feeling somewhat settled. What an adventure, roller coaster, nightmare, scary movie, and joy ride this has been. These are pictures my friend Julie took Friday night when my house was the cleanest it has ever been

Day Thirteen

2009-06-14T10:15:00.000-07:00

Super Saturaday:
Even though it is Sunday, I am doing my post for Saturday. Yesterday was a busy day with no time for blogging. I had to go to Victoria's dance seminar about how to do her hair and make-up for the show...very particular! I then got ready and was gone for the next six hours playing at two weddings: one in Valley Center and one in Rancho Sante Fe. It was great to have two weddings, but it does make for a long day. David was a trouper with all the kids. I know he looks forward to Saturdays when I don't have to play so that we can keep getting projects done around the house. But...it is wonderful I can do what I do and that he supports me. There were a lot of firsts yesterday. When I think I've seen I've seen it all, something will always surprise me. Here are a few things that happened:
1. it was my first wedding all in spanish without an english translation
2. first to have a bride and groom not even look at eachother the whole time during the ceremony
3. there was a groomsman wearing jeans with his suitcoat.
4. a very large man rolled down the hill because he fell off his chair in the front row while trying to take a video of the ceremony
5. the minister had the bride/groom sign the marriage certificate during the ceremony and then took off even before the wedding party had walked back down the isle
6. i have never played right by a lake surrounded by 20,000 s.f. houses.
7. i played for a bride who's family is all from India. All the women wore their beautiful ceremony dresses.
8. first time I have ever been asked to dress modestly for a ceremony. The bridemaids and brides all had sleeves on their dress. I guess it's not just a mormom thing.

After my weddings, I came home, changed my clothes and took my girls to watch the clogging show in Vista. Both my sister, and David's nieces performed in it. It really was fun and the girls loved spending time with just me.Victoria and Jocelyn with their cousins Jenna and Taryn Hervey

The girls with my sister, Jenna who has been clogging for eight years.

Day Twelve

2009-06-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

Fabulous Find Friday:

I have found some great deals this week doing my shopping. At Vons I spent 40.00 for a lot of great food, and the original bill before coupons and Vons Club was well over 100.00. I felt pretty great about that.
My favorite find this week, is my new birthday purse that my Aunt Suzie made. It is gorgeous! I love the cool and different tapestry fabrics and the beautiful hand crafted roses on the front. I have gotten tons of compliments and it is great to have a purse that is unique. It carried everything I need and I even have room for two diapers, wipes, and a few snacks for Tyler! Thanks Suzie for making such beautiful things that help me feel beautiful. Her website is great and she will make whatever you want( right?). Everything is awesome: girls skirts, make-up bags, purses...etc.
www.justbeonline.com.

If you are ever in Utah, you can see her stuff for yourself! Hope you'll check it out.

The Front on my new purse!

Her Cute Logo she puts on the back of the purse!

Day Eleven

2009-06-12T09:59:00.000-07:00

Thoughts on Thursday:

Even though it's Friday morning, I am still thinking about yesterday and why I didn't have time to write. There really aren't enough hours in the day to get everything done. David says I put a lot of it on myself and just try to do way to much....but when I look at my life, I don't know which part is too much?
I watch my niece Ela on Wednesdays (whom I love dearly and is the cutest little two year old around). I told Lauren I would watch her yesterday to. We had a wonderful day, despite the fact that the nurse called me from school and said Victoria had a stomach ache. The mean mom that I am, I told the nurse to tell her to eat a snack and rest for a few minutes and that she should go back to class. I told her I didn't have time to come and get her! Well that didn't work, so I had to drive down and pick her up with three other kids to walk in. With dance class, and a few errands and cleaning up all the toys, we barely had dinner (does taquitos count?). David put the kids to bed and by this time Victoria had a full on fever and wouldn't eat anything. I ran to Frazier Farms, Vons, and CVS to get all my grocery shopping done and got home at 9:15. With a few people coming over tonight, I knew I needed to get my house clean (pretty desperately). I stayed up late last night(and David did for a while to) doing this:Take Care of Victoria

Vaccuming my whole house (I don't even think I've done the whole house since we moved in)

Lot's of Laundy!

Mopping my very neglected sticky floor!

Paying bills and balancing our accounts.

Life is crazy....but wonderful. I am trying to enjoy even these routine tasks we all have. I still wish I would wake up one morning and all of them would be done for me, but I don't think THAT is going to happen!

Day Ten

2009-06-10T21:35:00.000-07:00

What'ca Working on Wednesday?
My friend, Trina is doing this title for her Wednesday posts. I didn't think anything I would ever be able to do this. I don't have a lot of time for craft projects. I have been hanging pictures and that kind of stuff, but nothing really exciting. However, tonight I did attempt something I haven't tried since 5th grade. I started making a quilt. My mom is in charge of the sewing/quilting class in our church and she hosts the event once a month. She really is an amazing seamstress and can do anything: quilts, dresses, wedding dress alterations...you name it. She told me this month that I really should come and try to make this cute watermelon quilt. I don't like to sew, because I don't like it when I have to redo stuff, or mess-up, or when it just takes so FLIPPIN long to get an end result. I like fast quick rewards for my work....this tells a lot about me by the way. My mom even had to come with me to the fabric store and help me buy my fabric because I thought I would have a panic attack with three kids and a store full of fabric and me not knowing what to pick.
So....I went and made my first 8 of 40 quilt blocks and I have to say it really wasn't bad and I think I actually had fun. As I was leaving my mom announced to everyone, "Oh Leanna I'm so proud of you because you didn't even cry." Too many painful memories for the both of us: my mom trying so patiently to teach me and me so aggressively trying to get my way out of sewing!
I will keep you updated on my quilt progress.

Day Nine

2009-06-09T22:53:00.001-07:00

Taste of Tuesday:

I do not have a picture of this recipe, but it is what David is eating on his birthday. This is his favorite dessert. I have been making it since we were at BYU. It is dangerous...just to warn you. It doesn't even have a name, so I guess I'll call it: Devil's Cake:
Here is what you need:
1 box devil's food cake mix
1 large box instant chocolate pudding (make up and have in the fridge)
1 large container coolwhip
1 can of Hershey's syrup (the small can with the yellow lid)
A few Skor bars, or Heath Bars

1. Cook cake in 13x9 pan according to package directions.
2. When cake comes out of oven, stab with a fork several times to break it up. It will be hot, so watch out!
3. Pour a thin layer of Hershey's syrup over entire cake. Let coo.
4. When cake is cool, layer in your favorite glass trifle bowl (or any bowl):
layer of cake, layer of chocolate pudding, layer of cool whip, layer of skor bar chunks.
5. Repeat until you run out of stuff. Top with a good drizzle of Hershey's syrup over the top.

This is a beautiful dessert and great to serve in nice clear cups. We had a large family party. I doubled everything and served it in my mom's crystal punch bowl! It was so heavy, but awesome for a large crowd and a great centerpiece on the dessert table!

Enjoy!

Day Seven & Eight

2009-06-08T09:53:00.000-07:00

Miracle of Monday:

I am combining yesterday and today because our Sunday was actually pretty busy in the morning, and then we had church, and then David and I just played with the kids until they went to bed. Once the kids were in bed, David and I stayed up late and hung up our pictures in the office and went through all the stacks of stuff on our desk. It is a great feeling to sit here, not feeling surrounded by clutter.

My miracle today is that Victoria's fall on the concrete wasn't any worse. Saturday night when David's brother and his family were here, we were eating dinner outside. The kids were done early and playing. Victoria was laying on the top of Tyler's little red Coupe Car (the car with the dome roof and the yellow top). She slipped and landed face first on the concrete. Her body then did a full flip over herself. I was so worried she did something to her neck. When I looked at her, her face really looked scary, because it got so swollen so fast. We iced it for quite a while. By yesterday it looked so much better and today it looks great.

Victoria was so worried about going to church yesterday because she didn't want anyone to say anything. She was really brave and handled it really well. Have a wonderful Monday!

Day Six

2009-06-06T22:48:00.001-07:00

Super Saturday

Today was crazy and fun at the same time! I didn't have to play my harp today, so I cleaned, exercised, ran errands and then we went to the beach. David's brother is here from Utah. We don't see their family very often. It was great to see them. We hung out at the beach and then they came back to our house for dinner.

It was exciting because Kevin got to help David mount our new T.V. It was kind of a ceremonious event. They both put on matching jump suits (really funny) and worked together to mount our T.V. from the ceiling. The people that lived in the house before us, marbled the entire wall and fireplace. We were concerned about how to mount a T.V. through marble, so David decided to buy a ceiling mount. He had to make his own metal adapter to connect it to. I was so impressed. He and his brother put up our T.V. I feel like our family room is almost complete. Although I wish I was looking outside my kitchen window and seeing a huge play set for the kids, I know we will all enjoy this new addition to our family. David made this metal adapter all by himself! I am so impressed!

David really was excited to has bis brother here to help him, since we don't see him very much. The matching jump suits were hillarious!

Daivd, Kevin, and his nephew Trevor hanging the T.V. It was a scary, breath-stopping moment for the guys. :)

Our living room...and yes that is clean laundry piled high on the table....I guess no one else is going to fold it for me.

Day Five

2009-06-05T14:15:00.001-07:00

Favorite Friday Find:

I have really been trying to save money when I grocery shop. I thought I did a pretty good job until I started reading about moms feeding their family of five for 40$ a week. I am still learning, but have some great websites I'd like to share with you about how to do so. Every week there are posts to Target, Walgreen,and CVS and what's the best deal. A lot of the stuff ends up being free. I have learned that Target takes Target and Manufactures coupons. You can print a lot of coupons online and this website tells you where to find them. Another website, this lady also includes deals at Rite Aid! Super Cool. If anyone else has any great money saving resources, please let me know!
Have a great Friday
www.moneysavingmom.com
www.stretchingabuck.com (she has a lot of stores on her blog I don't use, but I just scroll through her info to see what I want)
also, everyday I check www.slickdeals.net to see what are some of the best deals all over the web.
Lastly, my sister-in-law sent me this website with all the birthday freebies in one place:
www.freebirthdaytreats.com. It is so cool! David and I ate for free our whole birthday weekend!

Day Four

2009-06-04T22:34:00.001-07:00

Thoughts on Thursday:

Moving in to this house has been so challenging, but wonderful at the same time. We are finally starting to feel that everything inside is almost done, hung up, put away, and organized. The OUTSIDE is a very different story. We bought this house with almost completely dead landscape. For over .5 acre, that's a lot of DEAD! It overwhelms me to go outside, just because I know that we can't afford to fix that yet. I wish I had grass, I wish I had plants, and I wish that the sprinklers worked...but they don't! Today I learned a great lesson from my beautiful four-year-old daughter, Jocelyn. At the bottom of our property, we have a few trees that started blooming, despite the lack of water they receive. Almost overnight, one of the trees, much to our surprise has started growing these beautiful red apples. It is amazing to watch how fast the tree has filled up with them. We have several fruit trees, but all the fruit is not great. However, this tree has wonderful apples and I actually stopped and took a few minutes today to pick them with Jocelyn. Her excitement made me excited. She couldn't help but feel over joyed, even when her bucket only had ten, very small, yet very delicious apples in them. Today I realize how negative I am some times....and how positive my children are. Children see the good and we need to praise them for that. So, although most of the vegetation around me is dead (or severely struggling), I need to enjoy the APPLES. When LIFE hands you apples amongst the weeds, be thankful for them and realize what a blessing they are.

Day 3

2009-06-03T21:10:00.000-07:00

What's Wonderful About Wednesday:

Today was a great day. Thanks to my wonderful mother, she again watched two of my children for the entire day so that I could accompany Victoria to Lego Land with her kindergarten class. I haven't been able to help much this year or go on any field trips, because of Tyler, so I knew I didn't want to miss this exciting day. We used to go a lot when the girls were little and we occasionally show up for the last hour (because it's free), but just to spend a whole day there with my six-year-old (and no stroller or diapers to change), was awesome! We went on several rides and really had a blast. I learned today, that I need to spend more time with each of my children separately. They each deserve my undivided attention once in a while. I am going to do better about having mommy-and-me time. Victoria just loved having me to herself and really enjoyed her day! Yeah for memories made today at Lego Land!

Victoria and I

This ride just goes up and down and makes your stomach drop. All the poor kids from her class (and my friend Melissa, the mom in the middle) were screaming.

Day Two

2009-06-02T21:26:00.000-07:00

Taste of Tuesday:

On Sunday night, we celebrated mine and Tyler's birthdays with my family. My sister-in-law, Lauren made this awesome cake. It really does taste like a honey bun. Your family will love it and chances are you have most of the ingredients in your pantry! I said I would post David's favorite cake....will probably do that next week.

Honey Bun Cake

INGREDIENTS

1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
3/4 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
1 (8 ounce) container sour cream
1 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 cups confectioners' sugar
4 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, oil, eggs and sour cream. Stir by hand approximately 50 strokes, or until most large lumps are gone. Pour half of the batter into an ungreased 9x13 inch glass baking dish. Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle over the batter in the cake pan. Spoon the other half of the batter into the cake pan, covering the brown sugar and cinnamon. Twirl the cake with a butter knife or icing knife until it looks like a honey bun (or whatever design you want to make).
3. Bake in preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Frost cake while it is still fairly hot. Serve warm.
4. To Make the frosting: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioner's sugar, milk and vanilla until smooth.

I love this baby...I love sharing my birthday with him (Much better this year, than last year in the hospital)

Day 1

2009-06-01T10:45:00.000-07:00

Monday's Miracle:

My Mother, Joy
Made my birthday weekend by watching all my kids for two nights!
Means the world to me.

What a great way to start the week...having had a wonderful weekend to relax and enjoy my husband and celebrate my 30th birthday...which was on the 30th. After our two peaceful nights alone, we surprised the kids and took them to the Grand Pacific Palisades in Carlsbad so they could celebrate with us....since it is Tyler's birthday to.

Here We Are!

My boys couldn't be without their phone or computer

We walked across the street from the hotel and went to Legoland for the last hour of the day...why not it's free.

The kids were so excited to stay in a hotel. We don't do this very much...hardly ever, so it was a big deal for them

Breakfast at my favorite place in the whole world...The Beach Break in Oceanside. I had crunch french toast with fresh whipped cream and blackberries.....and the tangerine juice is awesome!

Hope your Monday is wonderful....What's your Monday's Miracle?

Happy Birthday Honey!

2009-05-26T13:26:00.000-07:00

Last night we celebrated at my parent's house.

Sunday we celebrated at David's sister's house. David is eating his favorite dessert that I make every year for his birthday. Stay tuned...I will be posting the recipe next Tuesday for my Taste of Tuesday.

This was David's birthday in 2002. I was pregnant here with Victoria and didn't quite know it yet. His nephew photoshoped this picture for us...We love this picture

Here is David's baby picture: Born May 26th, 1977.

My friend, Julie took pictures of me for David's birthday present.

I love you David! Happy Birthday! Can't wait to celebrate this weekend with no kids!

It's About Time....Anyone want to join me?

2009-05-21T20:45:00.000-07:00

My life feels out of control most days and I am finally trying to do something about it. I really am not as organized and with-it as I may seem. I just haven't had the time to sit down and enjoy things lately, like blogging, painting my nails (finally got a pedicure after about 6 months and I know the girls were talking about how bad my toes were in their own language), soaking in my new tub (oh wait, I've done it once since we moved it, reading (including my scriptures and anything uplifting..excluding "Fancy Nancy," "Belle's Ball" and other great books I read to the girls at their bed time), watching a good girl cry movie, writing in my journal, and several other things I can't name at the moment because I am too tired.
Speaking of my journal, I opened it the other day and to my SHOCK, the last entry I wrote was on November 2, 2008. It was finally then that I realized the last six months of my life, and the events that have gone on, have utterly consumed my time, energy, happiness, strength, and anything else I had to give. I look back and realize it was all worth it to go through this house project and to put in so many hard work hours, but not at the sacrifice of ME! I have decided this is not OK with me anymore. No matter how busy I am, or how many loads of laundry I have to fold (usually at least 6), or how many places I have to be at once, I need to take time to ponder, to write down my thoughts, and to relish in the moment of the day, and especially to record my thoughts about my life, my marriage, my children, and anything else you'd write in your journal.
SO, I HAVE A PLAN!
I have committed to myself, for the next 30 days to blog daily. I have promised myself to have my camera with me at all times (well...maybe not while I'm on the stair master at the gym.....) and to document something special about my day. Here is what I will be focusing on each day. (I'm an English Major....I can't help but like alliterations):
Miracle of Monday
Taste of Tuesday(thanks Brit for this idea!)
What's Wonderful(or Wacky) about Wednesday
Thoughts on Thursday
Fit/Fat Friday
Super(or sometimes Stressful) Saturday
Spiritual Sunday
You can interpret these how you like and I am extending the invitation (and challenge) out to you to join me. I will start on June 1st. I might throw in a few days of May, but with my 30th birthday and going away for a few days (finally!) I don't know if I will have access to a computer everyday.

Let me know by leaving a comment if you want to join in on "Thirty Days of Me."

Free Mother's Day Card from Hallmark.

2009-04-28T14:02:00.000-07:00

You can go to www.slickdeals.net and under Tuesday, April 28, a few posts down click on the link that says free card. You have to have (or make) a Hallmark account and then use the code from slickdeals to get your free card at checkout.

I love free stuff!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-14T20:31:00.000-07:00

Tyler in his cute vest from Auntie Liz!

The Kids outside our house

Tyler and I

David and the girls

It was so wonderful to celebrate our first holiday in our home. We really enjoyed it. Back in August, when we first made the offer on this house, I didn't think Easter would be our first holiday here....Here we are, with so much work done, and yet a whole 1/2 acre of weeds outside our windows and it's April. I think our hard work has paid off. It is a nice feeling to want to be home and not go anywhere else. Victoria, for the longest time, did not like this house and said it was ugly. Now she says, Can we just go home Mommy?" It is true music to my ears. I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter.

Tyler's Flowbee Haircut

2009-04-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

So, I have realized there are so many differences with having a boy vs. girls. One of the bigger ones for me is that boys need a boy haircut. With the girls, I just let their hair grow and barely cut it when they were small. With Tyler, I realize I can't do that. I didn't want to pay for a haircut and didn't want to do it myself...I don't trust myself that much. So, I decided to have my Dad, Tyler's Papa, but it with his Flowbee machine. Some of you may be wondering about this. Well in the early 90's, my dad bought a Flowbee, which is a long tube that connects to your vacuum, or central vac system and has cutting tools on the end of it to cut hair. I remember being young watching my dad cut his hair with this strange thing for the first time. We laughed and laughed. To this day, my dad still uses the Flowbee system to cut his hair. I didn't know if Tyler would do it, because it is loud and well just looks weird, but he didn't make a peep and I think he actually liked it. If you want to check it out, the website is http://www.flowbee.com/.

Well We Are In!

2009-03-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

Our Front Door (still in the process of being painted)
Tyler in the guest bathroom...his new found joy

Our beautiful kitchen...sorry it's so messy, we are trying to unpack

My aunt Carla came over and painted this. This is my new saying

The dining room chairs my mom and I recovered with free fabric she got...It was fun and easy

My dining room

The awesome laundry room. David built this butcher block counter top with help from Shawn Isa and his brother in law John

Our hallway (we still need to paint the railing)

My bathtub....can't wait to take a bath in there...probably in a few weeks!

Our bathroom countertop and cabinet

Our new shower..

I can't believe I haven't posted anything since the beginning of February. I don't know what else to say, except for our lives have been out of control for the last three months. With David working 11 hours everyday, me trying to take care of three kids and play my harp on the weekends, and then working on the house every night until the wee hours of the morning, there hasn't been much time left to sleep, email, eat or do anything fun. But, after much hard work, blood (and the loss of my very own fingernail from slamming it in our new garage door), sweat, and MANY tears, and with the help of so many wonderful people, we are in our home. Hardly anything is unpacked and it is still chaos, but it is ours and we have slept there for three nights. We have no T.V., internet or any sense of organization, but it is beautiful and very much an improvement from what it was before. I am so sorry to those of you who I haven't talked to in so long, or seen for that matter. I hope now that we are in, life will slow down a little and maybe I can actually sleep for more than a few hours each night. It is just such a joy to put my kids to bed. My mom has been doing that for the last two months, so we could work everynight after dinner. I am so thankful to my parents (and my sister Jenna of course) for letting us live with them and for helping so much with our kids and one the house. My dad installed all the cabinets and did a beautiful job. Enjoy the pictures and if any of you are in Vista, let me know and you can come and take a look.

Tyler Has Changed

2009-02-10T08:56:00.000-08:00

Tyler loves my mom's dishwasher
Look Mom, I can crawl now

He loves his bath and will stay in there for ever!

My boys!

Tyler at Sea World!

Many people have said they haven't seen any pictures of Tyler in a long time. Well, here he is at 8 1/2 months. He is 23 pounds, eats anything he can, has fully weened himself and loves his bottle, just started crawling and pulling up on furniture on Friday, finally sleeps through most nights, loves his sister's to make him laugh, loves to touch people's faces, gives great hugs, loves to be kissed, and the biggest thing I've noticed lately is that he has this look in his eyes of no fear, of curiosity and the longing to be crazy.....he just can't move that fast yet. I am enjoying this new crawling stage for as long as possible, because once he is faster...my calm days with Tyler are over.

Ode To The Isas

2009-02-10T08:32:00.000-08:00

The kitchen window (compare last post with the pictures before)
The two blue colors in Tyler's new room

No more dark purle....just a pretty light pink

A new connected arch way doing into the family room

A wider arch way going into the dining room. And look, a new ceiling!

This past week we have made an imense amount of progress on the house....mostly due to a HUGE amount of help from our friend Shawn Isa, a member of our ward. His wife Julie has been so gracious to let him help us. I think David, Shawn and Percy (another guy from our ward helping out with the lights) worked on the house from 7am until midnight Saturday morning. Shawn then took his work crew over there yesterday and put in another full day for the drywall. As you can see from the pictures, a lot of progress has been made. Having so much help with this house has been truly a miracle and blessing, but very humbling at the same time. I think it is in our nature to want to help others, no problem, but when it comes to asking and accpeting help, it becomes really difficult. I think the biggest thing I have learned from this whole experience is that we are never to busy to help out someone else. These guys, our families, and friends have been answers to our prayers during this whole process....and if everyone wouldn't have been willing and wanted to follow that premonition to help the Hunts, then we would be stuck still praying for help. The point is, I have learned that when we feel inspiried to do something, to help someone, to call someone, to babysit their kids, we really just need to do it, because we may be the answer to someone else's prayers. It is through eachother, I believe, that the Lord truly works and without eachother, things wouldn't get done and many miracles would go unperformed.

So thank you for your support, your love, your calls, your emails and your prayers! We are making progress and it is amazing.

I am alive.....just barely!

2009-02-05T22:20:00.000-08:00

Sitting on the mantle watching David work and giving Tyler a bottle. He has decided to wean himself this month......what timing
View from the mantle in the family room into the kitchen

Kitchen with torn out ceiling into the dining room

Kitchen Wall with no more yucky moldy cabinets

David and our friend Robert ripping out the old light box in the kitchen to raise up the ceiling

Demolition is a great way to take out your agression....David has punched many holes so far

Trying to demo red clay tile is a nightmare. It took my brother and David a really long time to do this!

We took out the 20 year old tub and got a great deal on a new one

The garage is filled with old cabinets, countertops and lots of tile

The girls don't want to keep a purple room...think we are going pink

So it has been a month since I posted last....and so much has happend. We did finally close escrow on January 28th. It was supposed to be on the 15th but because of the first time home buyer funds we were using from the county of San Diego...everything got delayed. We were very excited though to qualify for that program, which gave us enough to put down on the house and even be able to fix it up.

We have been staying at my parent's home, which has been great, but crazy. With my parents, sister, the dog, my grandparents who live in an apartment attached to my parent's home, my brother Cory who came home from Africa and needed a place to stay for a week, and my elderly grandmother that came and needed full care for a week, it is a FULL house! Living out of suitcases is not ideal, but great for the girls, because they only have so many options for clothes to year. I had to go shopping because I couldn't stand just wearing the same pair of jeans every day.

The girls are having a blast and don't understand why we aren't going to stay here forever.....and that brings us to the house. The reason why they want to stay at Mimi's forever is because they don't like the new house. They think it is ugly and that we should knock the whole thing down and start over.......so if you are wondering.....we are still going through a HUGE adjustment period with the girls.

What was going to start out as a few small housing projects has turned into a big remodel. We started demolition this last week...which was fun, tiring, painful, and hard all at the same time.We are so lucky to have so many people around us that have helped with plumbing, electrical, drywall, etc. The biggest bummer was that we now have to redo the bathrooms. When David pushed on the shower tile, and the tiles fell off and the drywall crumbled beneath them, we knew we couldn't shower there any more

The exciting thing is that this house (still with very vivid unpleasant memories of the people that used to live there) really feels like it is becomming a home.

I haven't really been able to even sit down and think. We have had so much to do, I feel like I am in survial mode....doing what is needed, just to get by.

I hope I can be better about new posts and the progress we are making on the house.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T08:01:00.000-08:00

All of us on the stairs...tired, sad, and ready for a shower.

Our backyard with the shed that David worked in...which looks just like the house.

The girls looking out from their secret cubby that connected to their huge closet.

The beautiful arches in the girls upstairs playroom and bedroom

The tile work in the girl's bedroom of our house.

The front of our house

The sunset from our home. We loved watching the sun set while we ate on the patio or roasted marshmallows in our firepit.

Our fireplace mantle

Our country kitchen

The last two loads of our stuff to go to storage.

I had all these plans of posting exciting things for December, such as taking the girls to see Santa, celebrating our anniversary, celebrating both the girl's birthdays and fun pictures of Christmas. Little did I know that most of the month would be filled with packing boxes, feelings of pure exhaustion, and showers only when REALLY needed. Here we are, now January 2nd, fully moved out of our beautiful home and into my parents house. Our stuff is all packed away in three storage units and we are living out of suitcases and boxes. Why, you may ask? Well, at the beginning of December, we finally found out that our offer (that we made back in August) was finally accepted on our first home. It is a short sale, so we were prepared to not hear for a while, but we were not prepared to hear the month of December. It is such a busy and fun time for our family, so we knew throwing a move in there would be a real challenge. But, like I said at the beginning of this long BLOG post, we are not in our new home, we are at my parents. The house we are moving into needs TONS of work and it is not possible to live there and work on it at the same time. We also need to save money this month. So, while we wait for escrow to close (January 15th we hope....we know it's risky....but feel this is the right thing to do) and while we fix up the house, we will be staying down the street at my parent's. We are hoping it will not take too long, but you never know.
I had no idea the amount of emotions this move would cause for me, David, the girls, and even Tyler. We LOVE the home we have lived in for the past two years. Even though we did not own it, we have loved living there. It wasn't just a house, with four walls and a rental payment...it truly was our home and leaving has been really hard. Our landlord, next door neighbor, fellow ward member, and builder of the home, Alan, was sad to see us go. He built this home for his family. They had four of their seven children there and moved next door to their very big home once it was done. We have loved living there. We have made so many memories there and when we turned in our keys December 31st, it was very sad. We are excited to move on and finally buy our first home....but we know the challenges with that are lurking right around the corner. We will miss our little French cottage and so I thought I would post some pictures of our last day there.

Our Trip To Kona:

2008-12-03T22:01:00.000-08:00

The girls loved walking out an seeing the smaller airplane that took us to Kona
Shaved Ice is always a must when in Hawaii

Jenna and Tyler on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving with my parent's friends overlooking Captain Cook's island. (Yes that is the ocean in the background)

My parents at Thanksgiving with Victoria and my niece, Ela

Eating at Bubba Gump's

The girls learned the hula

David and I did baptisms for the dead at the Kona temple. It is really small, but very beautiful

Every beach had such different sand. This beach was not sand at all, just pure shells. It was amazing.

Victoria getting ready to snorkel. She snorkeled with David every day. She would put her hand around his neck and he would swim her all over the ocean.

Jocelyn chillin in the pool.

Waikaloa Beach! The shoreline was breathtaking!

I finally found malasadas. It is the best little Hawaiian dounut filled with cream I've ever had! This made my trip.

Walking through an underground lava tube. It was made from lava a long time ago.

Checking out the volcano

Rainbow Falls

My brother Todd, Lauren and Ela

My brother Cory, with the girls

Our family after church, My mom made the matching outfits for the kids

Tyler eating sand

The girls were so excited to finally get to Hawaii

The view of the ocean (that we kayaked across)from Captain Cook's monument

Tyler passed out in the kayak. He is soaking wet and

The girls loved riding in the kayaks

Just finishing kayaking in the Pacific Ocean

David and I went with our kids and my family to Kona, Hawaii for the week of Thanksgiving. Hence why I haven't written in so long. It takes forever to pack for everyone and then recover when you get back, plus I was really sick before we left. We went with my parents, my brother Todd and his wife Lauren and their daughter, my brother Cory, and my sister Jenna. Hawaii is a very different place. There is so much contrast between the black lava rock and lush green landscapse. It is very dramatic to look at. The beaches all have different sand and the views are amazing. We had such a wonderful time, and are all trying to adjust to life back home in Vista! Traveling with three kids wasn't easy, but I know we made memories that the girls will remember for a long time. Victoria overcame her fears and became an avid snorkeler with her dad. Jocelyn learned to be strong even when the waves knocked her down. Tyler learned that eating sand does in fact make you constipated (soo sick!) and I learned that I can relax even with three kids!

FREE Snapfish Photobook

2008-11-13T06:42:00.000-08:00

Normally during the day, I really don't have enough time to sit down and watch a full t.v. show, but sometimes catch a few minutes here and there while I am feeding the baby. Yesterday, I turned on Oprah for the first 15 minutes and loved it because it was all about organizing your home and getting rid of clutter. They were suggesting that you take digital pictures of your kids artwork and put them in photobooks, like on Snapfish. I got really excited because this is what I already do each year, but the cool thing is that they are offering a free Snapfish photobook (one per address) until tomorrow night. So if you already have some digital pictures uploaded and have time to make a book, it's a great value, saving over 30 dollars:

http://www.snapfish.com/info18

Time To Be Strong

2008-11-07T21:21:00.001-08:00

I just finished reading the article on LAtime.com about the protest at the Los Angeles Temple yesterday. I couldn't believe how many people (over 5000) turned up to protest the passing of proposition 8. On the page of the article, click on the photos in the middle of the page to see the hate that surrounded Santa Monica Blvd and the horrible signs that were posted....many against Mormons. I guess the Mormon religion is the main target for the protests, because the church raised the most money for the support of Proposition 8 and it's members make up 2% of California's population.

Click here to read about the protest at the temple and see the pictures from the protest.

Click here to read the statement from the LDS church about the protest.

It's really sad we've come to this. This is a time to be strong.

I Got Tagged

2008-11-05T07:48:00.000-08:00

Sorry Trina this took me so long. This is a cool tag. You need to post the 4th picture in your 4th folder on your computer. This picture (like Melissa's) comes from 2004. We were celebrating 4th of July at Bringle Terrace Park in Vista. There was live music and a lot of David's family was there. We got to lay down and watch the fireworks go off right over our heads. It really was cool to be that close. I miss those days when my girls were that small because they weren't as sassy. ...I remember taking this picture like it was yesterday.

I tag: Tracy Badger, Allison Weening, Jessica Johnson, Jessica Hansen, and Brit Papa

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-04T20:36:00.000-08:00

Victoria as Dorothy
Tyler as the scarecrow

Jocelyn as the witch

My Wizard of Oz gang

David with his parents and Tyler at our Trunck-or-Treat

David and I (we really need some good costume ideas)

My sister-in-law, Lauren and I

Our family

David's sister Colleen and Tyler

So, for Halloween our ward did a trunk-or-treat which was great. There was an awesome turnout and the girls got plenty of candy. Afterwards, Victoria and Jocelyn still wanted to knock on someones door, so David and I took them to Shadowridge to David's sister's neighborhood and they had a blast with their cousins. They got so much candy...it was crazy. Victoria has already had two pulpotomies (baby root canals) so David and I really don't let candy, fruit snacks, soda, and other junk food stay for long in our house...so we knew we needed to do something about all the candy from Halloween. So, for the second year, the Candy Fairy came to our home. The girls got to pick out 15 pieces and put in a bag with their name on it. They left out all their other candy. In the morning they were so excited to see no HUGE bags of candy, just wrappers left from the fairy (and no we didn't eat it all...I actually just took the girls wrappers out of the trash) the new Tinkerbell movie to share and each girl got a plastic dinosaur....weird I know, but they really like those plastic animals. So, it was a great Halloween...and we are excited for Thanksgiving (which we will be celebrating in Kona Hawaii this year......can't wait)

Family Home Evening

2008-10-28T12:13:00.000-07:00

If we move, I will miss this mantle. It has so much personality and is so fun to decorate.

My Mom with Victoria and Jocelyn on our front porch after they carved their pumpkins.

Jocelyn with her pumpkin (which does have a heart shaped nose) and her "Indian" mask she made.
My sister Jenna and I. She is 15 and a freshman in High School. Do we look alike? I'm trying to figure that out.

The girls and I after our pumpkins are all carved and it's time for bed.

Tyler is sitting up! Scary thought since he will be five months on the 30th.

David and Tori carving a pumpkin for Tyler.

My Mom and sister with the girls.

I love this baby.....

My kids....Cute, Crazy, Constant, Colorful and Creative.

Last night, I had my parents and sister over for dinner. They have really helped me out with the kids a lot lately, so I wanted to make a nice dinner and carve our pumpkins. I made THIS health yummy dinner from one of my favorite websites with a salad and really good salsa from Frazier Farms and then we frosted sugar cookies and carved pumpkins. I love the fall time, just wish it wasn't so HOT here.

Once A Boy Scout....Always a Boy Scout

2008-10-21T08:14:00.000-07:00

David has just finished the Wood Badge Boy Scout Training (a total of 6 days and four nights). It was hard to have him gone, but totally worth it to him and for his calling as Scout Commitee Chair. I think he enjoyed it more than he is telling me because he knows how stressed I was while he was gone. Here are the top five reasons you know your husband had an AWESOME time at Scout Trainig Camp:

5. He came home and ironed his own scout shirt.

4. He's wants to buy one of these and that.

3. He sang us the entire Oh My Darling Clementine with a southern drawl. (What a strange song with strange lyrics).

4. Our opening song for Family Home Evening last night was Battle Hymn of the Republic, requested by David (the girls love the chorus which he already taught them at bedtime the other evening).

Drumroll please.........

And the number 1 reason you know your husband had an awesome time at camp:

1. He's already planning his next level of Scout Training (and yes it is more overnighters). YiPee!

I love you David and do support you in your calling. I just think you had more fun then you want me to know. I'm glad you got to go and learn so much!

Keep Breathing!

2008-10-16T08:22:00.001-07:00

This song that is playing right now is Keep Breathing by Ingrid Michaelson. It really describes my life right now. I know that no matter what is going on, I can get through it...just keep breathing. David left for Scout Training today and wont be home until late Saturday night and I am trying to take care of my kids, get my program ready for Sunday and just function on little sleep because Tyler loves me so much that he wants to be with me ALL night long. These pictures were taken at a baby shower I went to last night. (Thanks Julie!) When I saw them this morning and looked at my beautiful baby, I realized that it is all worth it: the stress, the no sleep, the struggles with getting three kids ready each morning, the crying, the fights with the girls....it's all worth it.

Here are two "star" quotes I found that I will be using on Sunday for our Evening With The Stars" Young Women in Excellence Program. Like a star I hope to be:

“Be like the Star which never wavers from the Crescent but is fixed in steady faith.”
Sri Sathya Sai Baba

“"Let me light my lamp", says the star, "And never debate if it will help to remove the darkness”
Rabindranath Tagore

Another Great Clearance Sale!

2008-10-16T08:19:00.000-07:00

Aeropostale offers an additional 30% off their already reduced Clearance Prices when you use code CLEAR30 at checkout. I think I'll buy this hoodie today!

Great Website Finds!

2008-10-15T16:24:00.000-07:00

I am rededicating myself to following my WEIGHT WATCHERS points so I can lose these last 15 pounds and I wanted to share one of my favorite websites. Even if you don't follow weight watchers, this website lists all the calories (and) from foods at all restuarants. You will not believe how many places are listed here. It is amazing to see how much you are actually eating at your favorite place! You will be soo surprised. Maybe you don't care about calories when you go out to eat, but it's fun to look. Enjoy it: http://www.dwlz.com/restaurants.html.

Also, Children's PLace is having a great clearance right now: www.childrensplace.com. I also found a coupon code online for an additional 15% off: HAA8.

Random Thoughts

2008-10-13T17:04:00.001-07:00

There are a whole bunch of things I've been meaning to write down, but with three weddings this weekend and getting ready for our big Young Women in Excellence Night this Sunday (that I am in charge of), I really haven't even had time to sit and think. Since Right now, I have a few minutes to write down some random thoughts/ ideas:

1. El Torito now has Kids Eat Free on Wednesday! Yeah! My kids love to eat here and so do I. I highly recommend their Tropical Chicken Salad. They also have a birthday email club, so add them to your list.

2. My aunt Rachel told me about this awesome website for all of you with little girls and no new ideas left for their hair. Everyday there is a new hairstyle and they are cute and easy.

3. Here is a great VIDEO on Prop. 8 you should watch and can share with your family and friends.

4. This is one of my favorite recipes to make on a cool fall day. The best part about these cinnamon rolls is that you can make them the night before and let them rise.

5. ToysRUs is having a great sale this week from their weekly flyer.

6. I love my running shoes. They are never on sale, but the website I buy them from does have free shipping right now. If if anyone is looking for a great pair of running shoes, these are the best I've found. I keep buying the new shoe every year.

Girls Weekend

2008-10-08T21:23:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I flew to Oregon with my mom, my sister Jenna and baby Tyler. We stayed at my aunt and uncle's beautiful home in Portalnd (thanks Nathan and Rachel). Portland is a beautiful city and Oregon has the most amazing landscape. We went to see my uncle's play Prometheus that was finally produced by a small playhouse there. It was so excited to see what my uncle Dave has worked on for the past fourteen years actually on a stage with real performers, live music, and great costumes. His play is called Prometheus (click on the word and hear clips from the original CD) and about his journey as he creates man and tries to give them fire and help them survive from Zeus. It is a beautiful musical and I am glad I got to see it. Hopefully it will be on Broadway one day soon....

It was great to get a break from home life and get away with my mom and sister. Tyler was awesome and didn't hardly make a peep all weekend! I feel truly blessed to have such a wonderful husband who let me go and great family support that helped him out.

Sweet Tomatoes Anyone?

2008-10-02T07:21:00.000-07:00

So, another place to add to your free birthday list. It's great though, because once we signed up, we've been getting coupons every few weeks. Click here and you can BUY 1 Get 1 at Sweet Tomatoes/Souplantation tonight or next week and then go to their website and sign up under Club Veg and you'll get your own coupons. Sounds great on such a hot day and everyone can get what they want. (This is not mu husband's favorite place to eat....but the girls and I love it!) Enjoy!

What's On Sale?

2008-09-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

Every day I check out www.slickdeals.com, to see what others have posted that's on sale. Most of the times it's for online stuff, but occasionally it for deals in the stores. Right now, there is a great Old Navy baby clearance for 4.99 and under. If you use coupon code BFF, you get free shipping. Also, both www.layersclothing.com and www.modbeclothing.com are having great clearance prices on their modest swimsuits. Check it out and have a great day.

Family Weddings

2008-09-21T14:55:00.000-07:00

My brother Cory with Jocelyn
My mom Joy with Victoria (and no I didn't have to play the harp...my aunt did!)
My cousin Jake, and his new wife Lindsey
Tyler just waking up in the stroller
Tyler and I at the beach for the ring ceremony

This summer David and I were part of four family weddings. David's sister Carolee, his niece Alexis, my cousin Jesseca and, yesterday my cousin Jacob. It was so neat to be in the temple with many of my family members for the special event. His new wife Lindsey is beautiful, kind, generous and they are a great match. Every time I am in the San Diego temple for a wedding, I am reminded of the day that David and I got married, almost nine years ago. Be brought all our kids down and my sister, Jenna watched them outside. It is neat for the girls to be at the temple. They loved seeing all the brides in their beautiful dresses. I didn't take any pictures outside the temple, but here are a few pictures from the ring ceremony and reception, which was right on the edge of the sand in Oceanside. I feel really lucky to live so close to the beach.

Cookies!

2008-09-19T21:39:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is about this cookie recipe, but it is the only one that I make now for my family. David loves it when I make these.....he really just eats the dough. It is that Neiman Marcus recipe that many of you have...or maybe you don't. I would love to know how many of you out there really make this recipe. After I make the cookies, we do something different with them. We freeze them in little sandwich bags....three or four per bag. David, the girls, and I (on occasion of course) eat these cookies but frozen. There is something wonderful about these cookies, when you make them and take them out of the oven slightly undercooked and then freeze them. We wait like a minute or two after they are out of the freezer and then eat them! This recipe reminds me of great times with my family. These cookies bring out the best of my husband and my girls! For those of you that don't have the recipe, here it is. Let me know what you think:

1 C. white sugar 1 t. baking powder
1 C. brown sugar 1 t. baking soda
1 C. soft butter ½ t. salt
2 eggs 2 C. flour
1 T. vanilla 2 C. chocolate chips
2 ½ C. whole oats
Heat oven to 375. Cream sugars and butter. Add one egg at a time. When blended, add vanilla. In blender, mix oats and baking powder, soda and salt until a fine powder consistency. Mix in mixer and then add flour, one cup at a time. Blend in chocolate chips. Bake 8-10 minutes on cookie sheet. Enjoy!!!!

Shout!

2008-09-17T16:05:00.001-07:00

I decided to try to be more dedicated to writing "ramblings" down on my blog. I've had a few people tell me recently that I am a great source for information...whatever that means. A lot of it comes from people asking help with planning wedding stuff (which is easy since I'm at them all the time). But I'm taking that as a little challenge. I'm going to try to share somthing everyday (or every other day) that I think is a good find, a great deal, or something that just helped me get through the day. It will probably be something that I am greatful for....which when I write about, will hopefully help me remember all the things I should be greatful for, in turn, helping me be happier, even when I am exhausted with three kids (WOW! that's a mouthful).

So anyway, today I want to tell you about Shout Advanced Gel!( that sounds like an intro for a home shopping network infomercial). I love this stuff. It is the first stain product that really helps me get out all of Tyler's poop stains, Jocelyn's lipstick stains, and Tori's play stains from school. The best part is, it works better when you spray it and let it sit on the fabric for a few days, even a week....which works out great for me because I don't do laundry more than once a week. So, if you get a chance, try it and let me know what you think.

Life's Good When There's Lipstick

2008-09-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

I am such a bad blogger. I get to the end of the day (finally) and I get so tired, instead of doing everything I want to do, like blogging, scrapbooking, cleaning and organizing, I end up sitting on the couch and vegging! Three kids has been fun, but drains me, especially because Tyler is getting up again at night, at least two times. I feel like I run on empty so many days.

Today was a day just like every other day, so I thought I'd post a few pictures of the kids and what's been going on. Victoria has to do her homeworks packet now everyday (and practice piano), so we are getting used to having quiet time. So Tori ends up at the table doing homework with me, Tyler sits in his Bumbo watching us, and of course Jocelyn is bored and has to do something I don't want her to do so I will notice her....today it was lipstick again. She is so obsessed with my make-up and feels that the world is going to end if she doesn't have dark lipstick on. She knows what colors she likes to mix together on her lips. She always gets it on her clothes and skin and gets mad when Tori and I start to laugh at her. I really don't know what else to do....let her do it whenever she wants or lock up my makeup bag? Not enough energy today to get mad......

I Love You Victoria!

2008-08-25T22:10:00.000-07:00

First Day At Vista Academy of Performing Arts

Lucky girl with some of mommy's lipstick! I'm trying not to look sad!
Even Jocelyn was a little sad!

WOW! I can't believe that I sent Victoria off to kindergarten today. Since she was a little baby, I have thought about this day and maybe what it would be like, and then there I was looking at her and hoping I had done everything right up to this point...the point where I am supposed to give her a hug, say good bye and watch her walk into her classroom. The point where I hope she'll remember to: wash her hands, eat her sandwich before her cookies, say "please" and "thank you," befriend the lonely kid on the playground, be the good example, follow the teacher's instructions, and just be the Victoria I know she is. I can't believe how time flies by so quickly. One minute she was a baby in my arms and today she asked if she could wear lipstick like me, because she was grown up enough to go to school. This day marks the first of many days where I'll have to say goodbye and let go a little more and, well it get's me very teary-eyed. What I would give for just one of those moments where I held her in my arms in the quiet of the night, a little baby completely dependant on me, looking to me for everything she needed. I truly wished I would have enjoyed her more as a baby. She was my hardest baby thus far and all I wished when she would scream at me hours on end, would just be for her to grow up....now I would go back in a second, just to know she was my baby a little longer. I will continue to hold on to whatever I can and enjoy my smart, independant, tall, beautiful little girl and this new journey we are on together.

LITTLE SECRET!

2008-08-16T07:32:00.000-07:00

Even Tyler was having fun.

New Airplane Ride
Tori and Jocelyn with Auntie Jenna
Tori on the horse ride (she's getting to big for it...)
Jocelyn was so happy
My sister with her Apple Fries....Yummy!

Many of you local San Diegans may know this, but I just learned about it from a friend this summer. The last hour of each day that Legoland is open, it is free to the public...including parking. For the summer hours, it is 7-8 pm. You can get to the parking gate around 6:50 and then when the parking people leave you drive right in. I took my sister with me, because David was gone, and we really took the girls on 10 rides. I am not joking! We were running though....but the girls had an absolute blast and it didn't cost a thing (except for gas of course). Well, my sister HAD to buy apple fries....... It was really worth it and we will be doing it again this next week! Maybe we'll see you there...for those of you that live close....for those of you that don't, remember that when you come to visit!

Happy Engagement Day!

2008-08-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

One of our first dates in November 1998 (we went to Gold's Gym to work out together)
Our first visit to California together in February 1999 (fishing in Marina Del Rey with his family) Nice glasses honey....
Our first road trip together was to Cedar City with some friends. Why don't you were suspenders anymore? They were hot!
First Snow Fight in Salt Lake ....WOW my hair was really blonde! (Utah does that to people I guess)
One of our hundred of engagement pictures taken in Utah

Today marks the 9th anniversary of the day David and I got engaged. David and I were both home for the summer from BYU and would be going back to school in a few weeks. He lived in Burbank and I lived in Vista. He was down visiting for the weekend and was really acting strange the whole time. On Sunday during church he told me he needed to talk to me. I could tell something was bothering him, but I didn't think it was because he had a ring box burning a hole in his pocket. Anyway, after church he said there was somewhere he wanted to take me and he didn't talk the whole time we were in the car. When we got to the beach, he pulled his car over by the side of the road and told me he had to check his tire. He asked if I would get the tire pressure gauge out of his trunk. I thought that was weird, but did it anyway. I opened up the trunk and there was the ring box open with my beautiful platinum ring inside. Wow! I was so surprised! I turned around and he was down on one knee. He asked me to marry him! What a wonderful day. It was a busy few weeks before we went back up to Provo getting plans done before I left and then we were married in December.

I love you David more today then I ever have. All we've been through in the last 10 years had really brought us so much closer together. Have a great day!

Movie Review

2008-07-23T11:20:00.000-07:00

Ok, so in the last two days I have seen two movies, one with my kids and one with friends. On Monday, we took the girls to see Space Chimps....don't waste your money. We went because we had some free passes and the girls really wanted to see it. If your kids want to see it, convince them to see something else. About the only good thing from this movie, were the quite disturbing chimp masks the girls receievd at the theatre and really that's all they remember either.

The other movie I saw was Mama Mia with some friends from San Marcos and it was great! Just your typical cheezy musical with great ABBA music. I really wish I could have been dancing in the aisled! I truly believe my life was meant to be lived in a musical like this or Enchanted.....but I don't ever get the orchestra que out of mid air to start singing...maybe one day it will happen.

Also, the song from mother to daughter is very touching...really did bring tears to my eyes.

2008-07-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

My Footprints
Someday I'll jump through puddles, take a stroll or run a race.

Someday I'll walk across the street or maybe walk in space.

Someday I'll scale a mountain or explore the ocean floor.

Someday I'll kick a ball in hopes that I will score.

Someday these feet will do some things that only heaven knows, but for today they're happy, just to wiggle all ten toes!

Ward Luau

2008-07-21T16:10:00.000-07:00

Tyler, with his buddy Ryan
The girls with their friend Destiny, doing the hula

On Saturday, we went to our ward's luau for a wonderful dinner and authentic entertainment. We ate pig that was cooked all day in the ground. The girls were quite fascinated by the large hole in the ground where the pig was. They couldn't beleive that the massive piles of shredded pork really did come from a live pig that was cooked only a few feet away from where we ate. It was fun to get outside on a beautiful night and have fun. Tyler slept most of the time and is still such a sweet baby.

Tyler's Blessing Day

2008-07-10T14:01:00.000-07:00

Tyler and I after church
Anyone want to set my brother up? He's single, handsome and look, he's great with kids
Tyler in his blessing outfit
All the men that stood in the circle for his blessing
Us with David's parents
Us with my family
David and I after our family party

This past Sunday, July 6th, David blessed Tyler. It was a beautiful day. (Besides church being at 9:00 and I barely made it there with the baby for his own blessing). I was touched to look up and see so many men in my family who hold the priesthood and were able to be a part of it. I wasn't sure what I wanted him to be blessed in. I didn't wan't anything too girly or too old fashioned, but I wanted it to look nice. My mom ended up making him his darling little outfit, and because of David's request she added the bowtie at the last minute, even though I didn't want it. But...I am very lucky to have such a talented mother who takes time to sew things for all of us. Sunday night, we had both our families over for a Hawaiian Haystack Celebration. It was so much fun to have soo many people in our backyard....we're thinking at least 40-50? We are so lucky to have so many of our family members close to us. What a wonderful support system David and I have as we raise our children here. What a special day for our family. I can't believe he's almost six weeks old already.

Tyler's First Photo Shoot

2008-06-26T14:49:00.000-07:00

Does anyone know whose gang these signs are for??

Julie Stainbrook, my friend and very talented photographer came over on Saturday and took pictures of us and Tyler. I can't believe how much he has changed already. I know one day I will look back on these and think to myself, Was he ever this tiny? How the time goes by so very quickly.

Our Family of Five

2008-06-18T17:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day David. Victoria picked out this shirt for him.
My parents with Tyler. My dad was really sick, so he didn't get to see the baby until last week.
His first day at the beach.
Jocelyn is so excited to be outside playing in the sand
Sweet Baby
There's a little smile.
I love my new Bob double stroller and it even fits at the mall.
I love it when Tyler sleeps with his hands like this.
Victoria ready for her dance recital.

So things have been busy the last week with Father's Day and Victoria's dance recital and just trying to get everything done like laundry, cooking (now that the dinners have stopped coming in), cleaning, helping brides plan the music for their weddings, and just trying to function on little sleep. It amazes me that I forgot how much work a baby really is, especially when I'm tired. But, we are so in love with Tyler and he has brought us so much joy. The girls still can't get enough of him and we are all realizing what an adjustment a new baby is, but how worth it and how rewarding.

2008-06-09T18:06:00.000-07:00

I am finally starting to feel better and moving around really great! No Stitches makes a world of difference and not having to think about dinners for two weeks (thanks to the sweet women of the Relief Society of my church) is really helpful! Today Tyler is already 8lbs. 13 oz. He is growing so fast already, I just can't believe it!

Happy Boy

2008-06-09T17:49:00.000-07:00

My friend Trina made Tyler this beautiful blanket, which he loves because it is so soft. I happened to capture this brief "sleep smile" while he was cuddled up in his blanket. We're all tired and adjusting to each other, but loving life with this baby.

One Week Old....and we're all surviving!

2008-06-06T08:33:00.000-07:00

Jocelyn holding Tyler....still a little jaundice
Just happy as can be
I'm getting hungry Mom!
This is so much better than holding a baby doll.
Jocelyn trying to get her own cereal out because I'm feeding the baby
Pumping is a beautiful thing when you have a five year old to take turns with a feeding.

This first week home has been an interesting one and an adjustment for everyone. The girls have just smothered their new brother to pieces. I know have to have a circle around me when I nurse him that gives me space so the girls don't have their noses pressed up against me. Tori and Jocelyn are realizing that Mommy is pretty busy taking care of a baby and they have to find things to do on their own....which they don't like. David is so excited that he is so good and quiet(so far) and I am realizing that sleep is certainly only a luxury and I have to get by with what I get...a few hours. The hardest part is, that I look back to when Victoria was a baby and really wish I would have enjoyed it more. She really was a very hard, fussy baby with a sensitive stomach and had to be held 24/7 until she was 18 months old and David was gone 12 hours a day in grad school, but still, I wish I would have enjoyed having my first baby more because time goes by so quickly. These babies are only little for such a short period of time. I have vowed to myself, that no matter how tired and stressed I am, I will enjoy this more and try to soak in every second I can. At least I've finally learned something the third time around.

A "Labor" of Love...The detailed version

2008-06-01T20:48:00.000-07:00

Tyler and I came home from the hospital today. It was a wild ride on Friday. I thought I'd post the details of Friday's delivery for those of you that are interested. My induction was scheduled for Friday because my doctor is going out of town tomorrow. Friday also happened to be my birthday, but it was the only day he could do it before he left!

We called Tri-City at 4:30 Friday morning and the charge nurse said to come on in because they were not busy. David and I got ready and arrived to Tri-City about 5:30. By 7:30 I had my pitocin going and my doctor broke my water. By 8:30 I had my epidural by the best anesthesiologist that the hospital had (according to all the nurses) and by 8:45 I was feeling good and thinking things would go really fast......but I was wrong. By 11:00, I was still at a 2 and the baby hadn't dropped yet. I had David give me a blessing and he said that things would start happening and that I would have the best of care and everything would be ok and that the baby and I would both be fine. The next time the nurse checked me I was at a 4, but the baby still hadn't dropped any.

As time went on and I started dilating more, the baby's heartbeat would drop done below 100 during each contraction. My doctor, who was checking in on me regularly, was getting really worried. By 3:15, he was sitting by my side, watching the monitors and not sounding too positive. He did not like seeing the heartbeat drop so low and was worried about the baby being so high still. He said that I probably needed a C-section right away. He got everyone prepped and the anesthesiologist was right there ready to make me numb. Within 30 seconds of him saying that, I felt this amazing amount of pressure and pain throughout my whole lower back. He checked me again and the baby had dropped and the heartbeat was back up. It was truly a miracle. He had me start pushing and an hour later....a long, exhausting, painful hour later, Tyler was born face up. So, even with the epidural, I had very painful contractions because of the way his head was. With me, David, my mom, David's sister, two nurses, one doctor, one anesthesiologist, and a team of Neonatal nurses standing by, Tyler was welcomed safely into this world.

The neonatal specialists helped get Tyler to breathe right away and clear his lungs. It was scary because he was so floppy, but with time and help from these wonderfully skilled doctors and nurses, Tyler is now healthy and perfect.

After the delivery was done, my doctor covered in sweat gave me a big hug and said, "This was truly a miracle. I have rarely had to work this hard to get a baby out, so I can't imagine how you are feeling. My doctor is a blessing and and answer to prayer. Without him, I would have had a C-section a long time ago. I don't even have any stitched because he was able to sit there and stretch me the whole time, rare for a posterior-faced baby!

I am glad to be home and count my blessings. The power of the priesthood is truly from God, and with it, everything worked out great in the end! David kept telling me to have faith, and at times, I wanted to give up, but I held on to the words of his blessing and was able to have enough strength to make it through.

You think the third time around it would have been slightly easier.....I guess that's not in the cards for me. Maybe I need to have these hard labors to appreciate more the special gift I am now holding in my arms. What a joy it is to be a mother....so the journey begins with three.

Henry Tyler Hunt

2008-05-31T12:39:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy few days....We checked in at 5:30 am on May 30th, Leanna's birthday and got ready to be induced. Things were real slow until about 3pm, when the baby started showing decelerations with each contraction. The doctor was debating back and forth, and re-checked to see her progress. Leanna felt like she should push, and an hour later, our little cone head came out, face up, and breathing like a champ. We just can't get our kids to flip.

Baby Tyler weighed in at 8.1 ozs, 20.5 inches....no way he would have come out natural in another week. Mom is doing well, and both will be home on Sunday.

SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO......

2008-05-28T07:31:00.001-07:00

So I just finally watched the real Twilight Trailer and now I can't wait for 12/12/2008. (Thanks Brit for posting it on your blog). For those of you who haven't read the books yet, there is still time to read the Twilight series. Enjoy the movie trailer and pictures from the filming.

Lots of Birthday Fun....

2008-05-28T07:01:00.000-07:00

OK...those people that really know me, know how much I love a great deal. Well, for those of you that don't know, these are the best "free" birthday deals around. David and I have had several free meals already, since his birthday was Monday and mine is Friday. You can even sign your kids up. If anyone knows about any other resturant that I haven't mentioned, please let me know. Just click on the place and it will take you to their birthday club and you can sign up. If you just had a birthday, well....I guess you'll have something fun to look forward to next year. You will get monthly newsletters from some of the places and news about their promotions, so use one of those spare email addresses. We think it's worth it and fun to have free food for the week of your birthday! Enjoy.

Rubios

Islands

Red Robin

Cold Stone

Famous Dave's BBQ

Buca di Beppo

Einsteins Bagels

Claim Jumper

No Baby Yet....but I'm Happy for many reasons......

2008-05-27T19:54:00.000-07:00

A much needed pedicue and heel treatment

I finally got my eclair from Claim Jumper (and I could only eat half of it)!

Happy Mother's Day Mommy! I got breakfast in bed!
I love my Mom! Now we both have dark hair!
Happy Birthday David! (David, his mother and three of his four sisters, Colleen from Vista (up above), Marissa from Escondido (on right), and Elizabeth visiting from Colorado, (on left) at Famous Dave's last night for dinner.
David and I eating BBQ at Famous Dave's.

Waiting to have Mother's Day dinner at Ruby's Diner at the end of the Oceanside Pier

Tori's soccer game. She finally scored her first goal (and she kicked a girl in the stomach really hard with a soccer ball, but we're trying to forget that one!)
Goodbye long hair Mommy! Now I can do it myself all summer long! Yeah!
Jocelyn's First Haircut with Meghan Hanks!

Today, I am 38 weeks prenant and very ready to have this baby. Sunday through Monday I had contractions for a solid 24 hours and was sure I was on my way and then Monday night, last night, they just stopped. I couldn't believe it! What a nightmare....I guess my body is slowly getting ready and I have yet to learn the virtue of patience. I am so sorry that I have not posted earlier and to those of you that have asked why, I guess it's because I have been so busy trying to finish up on so many things before this baby comes. When he does, I just want to sit at home for a few weeks and do nothing. So....here are some highlights from the last few weeks:

Mother's Day Dinner at Rubies Diner on the Oceanside Pier

Short Summer Haircuts for both the girls

Hair Darkening for Me

A nice baby shower put on by David's sister, from Colorado with women from my ward/young womens

Saturday Soccer Games

An Eclair at Claim Jumper!

A clean house and drop off to D.I.

A pedicure

(I figure at least when I'm pushing out this baby, I can have nice looking toes!)

Baby Love

2008-05-03T08:08:00.001-07:00

One More picture I forgot to put in. I wasn't going to take any belly shots, but I am glad Julie convinced me to let her. I think this picture captures exactly what pregnancy should really feel like (depiste all the negatives with being sick, weight gain, no sleeping, back pain, constant peeing, water retention, etc.) I hope I'll remember this moment for as long as I live. Enjoy the sweet mother poem below.

I loved you from the very start…

You stole my breath, embraced my heart.

Our life together has just begun,

You’re part of me, my little one.

As mother with child, each day I knew

My mind would be filled with thoughts of you.

I’m daydreaming of the things we’ll share,

Like late-night bottles and teddy bears.

Like first steps and skinned knees,Like bedtime stories and ABC’s.

I’m thinking of things you’ll want to know,

Like how birds fly and flowers grow.

I’ve thought of lessons I’ll need to share,

Like standing tall and playing fair.

When I first see your precious face,

I’ll pray your life be touched with grace.

I’ll thank the angels from above,

And promise you unending love.

Each night I’ll lay you down to sleep,

I’ll gently kiss your head and cheek.

I’ll count your little fingers and toes,

I’ll memorize your eyes and nose.

I will linger at your nursery door,

Awed each day that I love you more.

Through misty eyes, I’ll dim the light,

And whisper, “I love you” every night.

As mother with child our journey’s begun,

My heart’s yours forever, little one.

I loved you from the very start…

You stole my breath, embraced my heart.

*Author Unknown*

Family Photo Shoot

2008-05-03T07:21:00.000-07:00

(click on any picture to enlarge it)

I thought it would be nice to take some pictues before the baby comes (hopefully by the end of this month, if I am lucky), so I had my friend Julie take our pictures. (She is a wonderful photographer if anyone is looking for one). When I look back over the pictures, I can't believe how old our girls are. Time really does go by so fast. They aren't little babies any more. I hope that with this third baby, I won't be so busy that I miss the opportunities to enjoy the momemts that I have holding a baby again. I am sure I will be stressed, tired and feel rundown, but I know how important it is to truly embrace the blessings I have and enjoy even the crazy times as a mom!

I Love This Girl!

2008-04-23T07:10:00.000-07:00

"I dig my Dad" Onesie!

OK, when I made my last post I failed to mention that David's sister, Elizabeth gave me an entire duffel bag of baby clothes, mostly 3 months to a year! I was just thinking about the 0-3 month sizes, that I didn't mention this women's incredible generosity and I want her to know how much I appreciate her. She had her third boy last year and Blake just turned 1, so she shared all her clothes with us and she knows how to dress boys right. She even bought me a whole bag of darling clothes from the Pumpkin Patch! I feel really lucky and grateful for her. It was fun to go through all the clothes and sort them by size. Here are a few of my favorites. I love you Liz and you've helped me realize that boy clothes are cute and something to look forward to!

Striped Pumpkin Patch Newborn Hat and Matching Velour Animal Shoes

(Baby will be wearing this home from the hospital)

"Flames" OnesieRace Car Leather Shoes!

Making Room For Baby

2008-04-21T16:36:00.001-07:00

It has been fun to turn our guest room into the guest room/nursery. I wanted to use the same colors, black and red, so I was super lucky when I found all this black and white toile/checked bedding on ebay for $15.00, which got me everything for the crib. We moved the bed over and added a cherry wood sleigh crib (a great steal from Craigslist.com), which matches my other furniture and David just finished painting my $15.00 changing table (also from Craigslist.com) burnt red to match the curtains and bedspread. I think it looks really nice and ready for a baby to come and stay. I was even given some new baby clothes from my friend Julie. I think all this baby really needs (besides a new stroller and some other accessories) is a name!

LIFE!

2008-04-21T16:18:00.000-07:00

I am sorry that I have not posted in almost a month! Besides dropping my nice camera in a pool and destroying it, life has been crazy and our house has turned into the Hunt hospital. In the last three weeks, David's been on antibiotics two times, Victoria and Jocelyn have both had pink eye, which they needed medication for, I have had the throw-up flu and am now recovering from a horrible throat infection (am going to get my antibiotics right now)! Yucky.....and all I want is to go to Claim Jumper and eat an entire chocolate eclair all by myself. I find the quote on Claim Jumper's website quite true, "Part of the secret of success in life is to eat what you like..." If I was just eating what I liked, maybe life would "taste" better right now. So, heres hoping for next week.....

I also need a pedicure, but guess that will have to wait too.

"Reflections of Christ" Video

2008-04-21T16:09:00.000-07:00

If you have five minutes and have not seen this short video on the Savior's life, then please do so. It's probably the most touching film thing I have ever seen about Jesus Christ and the amazing life he led:
http://mabrystudios.typepad.com/reflections_of_christ/2008/03/reflections-sli.html

An Easter Egg Hunt with the Hunts!

2008-03-24T21:43:00.000-07:00

Yeah for our family of four!

Yeah for eye surgery! (Hopefully with patching it will stay looking this straight)

Yeah for Jocelyn smiling!

David's family got together on Saturday to have a nice dinner and Easter Egg Hunt! It was fun for the girls to swim in Auntie Colleen's pool and decorate eggs with their cousins. The older kids hid the plastic eggs and the little ones got to find them. It was fun for David because he got to see his brother from Utah. It was nice to finally get a family picture of us. It's been a while... What a beautiful day to be in San Diego.

Barefoot at the Beach!

2008-03-19T21:43:00.000-07:00

I am quite aware that for my wonderful family and friends who are still shoveling snow and fighting the cold, these pictures might be hard to see and I am truly sensitve to that. But, yes, it's true. Today, I took the girls to the beach for some much needed "free time to play." Although I was still in a sweatshirt, the girls insisted on wearing their swimsuits and jumping in the waves. The icey water made my toes cringe, but the girls didn't seem to mind at all. It truly was a wonderful afternoon and a great way to relax. Even though my body will not be swimsuit ready by summer, my toes can always be beach ready. Today, they were right where they wanted to be..

Fancy Nancy to the Rescue!

2008-03-10T13:03:00.000-07:00

So, this past week was hard for me because I love to always be on the go with the girls. With Victoria's eye recovering, she couldn't go to school, the park, dance, or anything! It was good, because I didn't spend money on extra gas and the girls found all the toys they haven't played with in a long time. My sweet Auntie Lea dropped off this present for Victoria with a nice card, and it was a new book! Fancy Nancy is the cutest little girl's book that I have ever read to my girls! The fancy words are so fun and now the girls talk about "fuchsia" and "parfaits." I highly recommend this to anyone with a sweet little girl at home. Amazon.com has a great selection for really cheap. Thank you Fancy Nancy for bringing a little "fancy" excitement and glamour to our glum week.

Tori's Eye Surgery

2008-03-01T08:49:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Victoria had her third eye surgery. This was the first one with her new doctor, Dr. Bansal, who David and I really like and feel very good about. Her surgery was scheduled for 1:50 yesterday afternoon, but didn't actually start until 2:45. Poor girl was starvin!
David and I were amazed at how brave she was. When the nurse came to get her and we had to say good bye, she didn't even cry. She said she was going to try to be brave. I lost it of course, as soon as she left, realizing what a special girl she is and how lucky I am to be her mother. The anesthesiologist even gave her little stuffed lions sleeping masks too.
Her surgery lasted one hour and it took her over an hour to wake up. Dr. Bansal removed old scar tissue from the past two surgeries, cut and rearranged the muscles from the top of the eye and the inside of the eye. She loosened the one on top, and actually cut some of the muscle attached to the inside of her eye. She said it couldn't have gone better. She has small stitches that will heal and her eye will take about two weeks to make it's correct placement. We just hope this will be the last of surgeries, or at least the second to last. Although it doesn't change what she can not see due to her optic nerve defect, cosmetically, we hope this will help her eye at least look straight now.
Today, her eye is very sore and weeping tears and blood, but she is so brave. I just get teary-eyed thinking about her strength. She slept well with Tylenol(Codeine added)
We're in for a very quiet week, away from school, dance, parks, and anything else that could irritate her eye!
After my mom's surgery, David's mom's surgery, and now Victoria's surgery, we really see the hand of the Lord and feel how He has blessed us. We're so grateful for the priesthood and it's amazing power.