happily surrounded by little boys

10 on Tuesday.

2012-01-24T09:42:00.007-07:00

Rhonda had a good 10 today, I think I can say the same for almost every one of hers in some for or another. So being the lazy sister in law that I am, I will just "borrow" hers. Hey isn't imitation the highest form of flattery?

1. I love pancakes, so does Roman. But he only eats them about half of the time for breakfast now. Only because he hates getting up for school and he is too asleep to realize what he is doing when he starts on yogurt or cereal. Brad does not like pancakes. Whenever he is gone for dinner me and the kids chow down on pancakes. I like mine with coconut syrup. The kids like raspberry.

2. This is my pancake recipe. I like to make a batch or two. Then I put one cup mix into one of those colored take and toss containers at walmart, holds just barely a cup. Then the bell freezer plastic jars hold a cup of buttermilk. It freezes well you just have to plan ahead for thawing. Then in the morning I can grab an egg and each container and I'm set. The leftover mix keeps well in the fridge.

3. Oscar is not the greatest sleeper. Many of you have heard the story. It's totally my fault. Basically he was sleeping good at night when he was 4 months old. Then we camped all summer and I didn't want him to wake up the kids when he cried at night. So I slept with him and fed him whenever he woke up. Great for summer. Then he was teething and I just couldn't make him go in his own bed when he was so sad... blah blah blah. I'm lazy and the kid is still in my bed. But I am going back to work soon. So he is working on being in his own bed and not eating all night. He doesn't like it. He likes to cry. I'm tired.

4. A good thing about Brad working in Lethbridge is that he can pick up random things at the grocery store for me. And he doesn't mind doing it. Thanks Brad!

5. The weather is crazy, but I actually don't mind it. That week when is was so cold, I quite enjoyed the excuse to sit around in sweats and never leave my house. I like getting out with friends, but I also really like just staying home. My kids play quite well most days and don't really get cabin fever. I like feeling like it's okay to stay home and not feeling guilty because I'm not taking them to the park or the pool or where ever.

6. In the words of Rhonda - "I love having a garage to park in. It's the BEST." It really is the best, I probably wouldn't like winter so much if I didn't park in my garage!

7. Hmmm, well if I am sticking with Rhonda's top 10... kids in their beds... I can't go to sleep without checking on my kids. Or at least Brad checking on them. I'm sure I'm not the only mom like this. And it always cracks me up the positions they get themselves into and manage to stay fast asleep.

8. I want to do some sewing. And sanding and painting of furniture. But I honestly just can't find the time. I don't know why, it's not like I do anything super amazing with the time I have. I really don't know how I managed to sew so much before. It's partly that I am just tired. And when the kids are in bed all I can make myself do is sit in my bed and watch tv or read a book. Or play ticket to ride on my phone, Brad and I are majorly addicted to it! But I did manage to sew the kids some awesome presents for Christmas. No pictures on my phone, I'll take some another day.

9. I wish I was a menu planner. Guess I'll add that to the long list of things to do that never actually get done. But here is a meal that I tried awhile ago and we love it. For sure one of my new go to meals. It's on my Pinterest board, can't remember where it's originally from.

MONTEREY CHICKEN

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 c. bar-b-que sauce ( I use Bull's Eye)
1/4 c. real bacon bits
1 c. colby and jack cheese, shredded
1 14 oz. can Rotel tomatoes, drained (canned with green chilies added)
sliced green onions
pepper

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Pound out chicken breasts to flatten. Season with pepper. Grill chicken until no long pink (we used our George Foreman grill) and place on baking sheet covered with foil. Top each chicken breast with one tablespoon bar-b-que sauce, 1/4 c. cheese, 1/4 c. tomatoes, green onions and one tablespoon of bacon bits. Place in oven and bake until cheese is melted (about 5 minutes).

10. Pinned this poster on Pinterest. I don't necessarily love it, it actually makes me feel guilty because I do yell. But it will be a great reminder and that is why I want it.

better late than never

2011-11-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

I can't not post about Halloween. I know I know, super late. Whatever.
I just love Halloween! It's just so fun. Dressing up as whatever you want and getting candy. It can't get better than that.
I may have had to buy candy twice.
I love decorating for it to. Anything goes. It doesn't have to be all cute or perfect or matching like Christmas. It's all about the dollar store decorations. It's spiders and bats and totally for little boys - mine were in love with it all! I didn't get a picture of my decorations dang it, next year.

We went to a pumpkin patch out by Barnwell, Rhonda and Regan came too. A bit over priced for pumpkins, but lots of fun! The kids were in heaven picking their pumpkins and going on the hayride.

And what's Halloween without a few costume changes right.
The boys picked their costumes - Ben 10. Our world revolves around Ben 10 right now. But I have to admit as far as kids shows go it's not the worst. It's no Phineas and Ferb, but it's okay. The kids aren't allowed to watch a new episode unless dad is there to watch it with them!
Roman is Four Arms and Finn is Rath the Tiger. I may have pushed a little for Rath, less sewing for me. Some friends in our ward had a family party and the kids were over the moon excited when we told them we could all be Ben 10 characters, even mom and dad. Brad brought out the wig for Ben, Oscar is Cannonbolt, and I was lucky enough to be the evil Charm Caster. What's that, none of have a clue what I'm talking about? Didn't think so.

For the annual Halloween party we came off the reservation. What's the politically correct term these days? Native Americans, First Nations People? Anyway, what Indian costume is complete without a loincloth. When Brad commits to a costume he really commits! Don't worry, he did put on pants eventually. We borrowed his costume and I made mine and Oscars - from two pillow shams I found at the thrift store! So easy and so comfortable. I may have to break this costume out again.
Some decent weather for trick or treating, both boys had tons of fun. Shy little Finn marched right up to the door and took his candy from all the strangers no problem! Me and grandma dressed up for tick or treating took, and Oscar fell asleep bundled in the ergo carrier, and Brad stayed home to hand out candy.
Can't wait until next year!

my heart is full

2011-11-08T23:02:00.000-07:00

My heart is full of gratitude tonight.
For friends and family who know that I am trying to raise my kids right, to teach them right from wrong, teach them respect. Even if my kids behavior doesn't always show it.
For friends and family who care about my kids. Who put forth an effort to reach out to Finn even though they get nothing in return. For letting me vent my frustrations and worries to them.
And for tiny answers to a mothers constant prayers.
Masen came to get Roman to play today. As the two crazy boys were heading out the door Finn said he wanted to go too. I told him they were playing in the house not the backyard, and I wasn't coming, and Christal is there. "I like Christal mom".
So R and M waited for him to get ready, walked their bikes the half block to M's house while Finn walked in front of them.
He went into the house. He talked to Christal. He showed her his Buzz Lightyear costume. He went downstairs. He stayed for 10 minutes. He calmly, not crying, said he wanted to go home. So his brother walked him home then headed back to play.
I spent that 10 minutes close to tears as a wave of relief and gratitude spread over me. It may seam like something trivial, but for anyone who knows Finn it's a huge step.

I just wish you could all see the real Finn. The funny, feisty, goofy, stubborn, sweet little boy of mine.
Love you Finn.

love hate

2011-11-02T10:00:00.008-06:00

I have a love hate relationship with pinterest.
I love the recipes. I love the crafty ideas. I love the tips. I love the sharing.
I hate when people link back to a whole blog instead of just the post that the cool thing was on. So annoying. I may or may not be guilty of the same thing. But I really try to remember to link the post. Come on people!
And right now I HATE the stupid pins about no heat curls. I hate them. I have tried them all and none of them work for me. Help me out Jacklyn, you know hair.
Yesterday I looked like an idiot with a sock on a bun on the top of my head.
Then I took it out and looked like an even bigger idiot with poodle hair. This was brushed out. It was worse before.
Stupid no heat curls.

In happier news, someone is officially on the move!

Not so sure I like it. But he sure does!

I never noticed how many small toys and crumbs my older kids leave around. We are in trouble. Roman never did that when Finn was crawling.

And Brad had better get building a gate for the stairs asap!

simple things

2011-10-06T13:49:00.006-06:00

Joining in on the fun of Rebecca Coopers simple things. She is amazing, AMAZING. A bit of a celebrity blogger. Glad to say I know her and can call her my friend. One of the most talented and nicest people you will ever meet. Click on the button on the side bar to learn more about the simple things posts.
So here is my simple things post. I have a thing for tiny little boy bums in underwear. Finn is just so excited about his new blue underwear, so excited he just wanted to show the whole neighborhood I guess.

chipotle burger recipe

2011-07-29T09:22:00.003-06:00

We made these burger again last night for a BBQ with some friends and the missionaries. They were yummy, but I may have exaggerated a tiny bit in my last post. I tend to do that. The burgers are really really good, but it is all about the chipotle mayo. Try them and tell me what you think. One thing we didn't do last night (that I never do because I'm lazy) is toast the buns. But it makes them so much better if you do. So there is my two cents, and here is the recipe.

Officially called the southwest burger.

best thing I ever ate

2011-07-23T18:44:00.005-06:00

Oh man. Ohhhhh man did I make a good dinner tonight! Brad and I both love chipotle peppers and anything made with them. I also love to pronounce the word chipoltee peppers because it drives my sister nuts. So I found a recipe for chipotle burgers with lime/cilantro/chipotle mayo.
Better than the Red Robin chipotle burger I ate weekly one month when I was pregnant with Roman.
So unbelievably good.
So good that I asked Brad when it will have been enough days so I can make them again.
So good that I was literally dancing and signing in the kitchen while I was eating it.
So good that I don't think I can share the recipe.
Do you love the spicy smokey taste of chipotle peppers?
I'm accepting BBQ invites and I'll bring my awesome amazing chipotle burgers.
For real. You need this burger in your life.

ten on tuesday

2011-06-28T17:23:00.007-06:00

1. Oscar doesn't nap anymore. He napped so good for the first three month. Then he stopped. I have tried everything I can think of. It's killing me, I get nothing done all day. None of my kids have ever been nappers. An hour if I'm lucky. Once a day, usually in the afternoon, I end up holding him when he wakes up so he will go back to sleep. I miss phone calls, don't answer my door, and my kids run around the house crazy and sneak treats. But what else can I do. Why does everyone else kids nap? Did I miss some mom secret on napping?

2. Why did I think it was a good idea to have a 4 month old in the summer? He can't be in the sun, he can't wear bug spray, he doesn't like the tiniest bit of wind, the pool water is too cold...

3. I have an awesome friend down the street who lets Roman enjoy the summer with them since I have no yard yet and a boring (but cute) baby. These two go back and forth from house to house all day long. Shoes and shirts are optional. Finn even leaves my side on occasion to follow them - a big step if you know Finn! Bad picture but they were almost out of my site.
4. It's June 28th? Really? Are you sure? Looking forward to the 1st of July fun this weekend! C I'll be crashing for some cake so be ready! Anyone else want to let me crash their BBQs for some good treats?

5. Had our big BBQ rib competition this past weekend. What was it, like 230 people or something? Crazy but so fun! We, with two other couples, organized a huge rib competition complete with trophy, t shirts, bounce houses, cotton candy and lots of yummy food. Brad got to taste 30 different ribs to help pick the winner. Got the campground booked for next years competition already!

6. Scout camp is coming up. Boo. But then I get to leave all the kids for an afternoon/evening and go to Wicked so I'll just keep my mouth shut. I will not keep my mouth shut about the stupid canoes all the YM are building in my garage, it's a huge mess and there is no end in sight.

7. We had a fun time in Montana two weekends ago despite all the rain. Got the trailer down and set up and got a long list of things we forgot and need to take next time. We got to meet my cousin (from Arizona) who is on a mission in Montana and just happened to be in Kalispell! He got permission of course, so us and my parents took him and his companion out to dinner and then grocery shopping. It was so fun! A little strange for him I'm sure to see people he knows on his mission, especially because I haven't seen him since he was around 10 or 12 years old. Took the kids to Kung Fu Panda 2. Finn's first movie in a theater. I was prepared to leave with Oscar if he got cranky and head over to Target and TJ Maxx, but I didn't get the chance. He ate, watched a bit of the movie, and then slept for the rest.

8. Our other bit of Montana news is that Roman lost his two front teeth there. It's funny because on the trip down I was commenting on how his teeth must have shifted for some reason because I had noticed a gap between some teeth that had not been there before. He was trying to open a little milk carton of goldfish and one of the bottom teeth just popped out. They must have been loose to come out so easily, thus the gap I had noticed. The other was holding on by a thread and was super easy to pull out. We were all so shocked. We got in the truck and were talking about how cool it was and the tooth fairy and the money she would bring him. All the while I am sitting in the front seat close to tears. How can he be old enough to loose teeth! He is only 5. Brad just rolled his eyes at me. It's not just how old he is getting. Now he is going to be one of those goofy looking boys with huge teeth until he grows into them! I know you are with me on this line of thinking Lins!
9. What a nice day it was today! Gotta love zonked out tired kids with pink cheeks. Got a little sun burn myself too.
10. And last but not least, I have to give a shout out to my brother in law Eric. He is getting baptized tomorrow. Sad we can't be there, but we are so excited and happy for you and Paige.

ten on tuesday

2011-05-17T18:18:00.005-06:00

1. My mother's day present from Brad is being picked up at the boarder tomorrow. It's a Kindle!

2. At first I didn't think I would like a Kindle, will I miss holding a book and turning the pages? I'm not a book buyer, I am a library person. But I think I will like it. We'll see tomorrow! What books should I buy?

3. Oscar is just over 3 months old. How time flies. The belly fat does not fly, it jiggles. It just sits right where it is and makes it so I can't do up my pants. Literally. I went to Lethbridge today in pants that were not buttoned up. I'm pathetic.

4. This wind is CRAZY! I mean we live in SA so a little wind is fine. And I'm not one to usually go on and on about the weather. But I really want to get my kids outside. Dirt yard and wind do not mix.

5. Brad built the rail on the deck on Saturday. I'm hoping grass will be in before I know it. I bet I have grass before I have kitchen cupboard doors! Ha!

6. I have been doing laundry all day. All the bedding for the trailer. Camping time at the lake is coming fast!

7. The kids got a little carried away with tv watching during this cold winter. I think the cut back on tv has been harder on me than on the kids.

8. We went to Edmonton a week and a half ago. The kids had so much fun at west ed. Roman was right in to the rides and the water slides. It was fun to be back in Edmonton, even just for the weekend. Such a nice city.

9. I have been checking the mail everyday for the last week. The tax returns finally came today!

10. I'm stuck so I'll borrow number 10 from Christal, can't wait to go to Wicked this summer!

ten on tuesday

2011-05-03T12:59:00.004-06:00

1. I like this ten on Tuesday thing, I can just write 10 random not at all related things and it looks like I am blogging!

2. I love my white bedroom. It really makes me want to paint the rest of my house white. I always used to laugh when people said they liked white walls. But finding the right white was so hard.

3. That said I have a huge love hate relationship with my white bedding.

4. Actually it is my kids who have a love hate relationship with my bedding. They love to get stains all over it and they hate it when I get mad at them for it.

5. My husband is the best. He likes to spoil me. He has gotten me some amazing presents this year for birthday, valentines day, and now mothers day.

6. What's that you say, we haven't had mothers day yet? You are right. But Brad just can't keep a secret. I always end up getting my presents early because he just can't wait.

7. But now the pressure is on, what do I get him for his birthday and father's day?

8. I really really want to get sewing, crafting, decorating my house, and refinishing a ton of furniture sitting in my garage. But I just can't seem to get myself started.

9. I love telling people Oscar's name. I get a ton of great reactions. Oh, umm, that's.... nice. Ha Ha Ha! The best is "that's different". Just say you don't like it already. I really don't care if you don't like my kids name.

10. This kids is getting chubby! Just look at these cheeks!

ten on tuesday... on wednesday!

2011-04-27T11:09:00.003-06:00

1. I started on Tuesday, but it just didn't happen. By the time Brad got home from Young Mens I was a tad bit frazzled. I played games on my iphone all night while he watched the Lakers game because it meant I didn't have to leave my bed. The computer was just too far away.

2. Rhonda's idea not mine. As was my blog header she made. I have been getting compliments on it and had to give her credit for it.

3. I bought a bike. A road bike. It was rather expensive. I love it. And I have yet to ride it anywhere but around the block once. It is killing me. I want to ride so bad. My skinny jeans miss me and I miss them. But the wind and Oscar have other plans for me.

4. I went swimming last week with a friend. It felt amazing. Unfortunately it didn't work out so well for the kids and the babysitters. June 1st and the pool opening in Raymond can't come soon enough.

5. With the last two you would think I am a health nut. The truth is Easter candy is just too good.

6. I have washed so many muddy clothes the past few weeks. I can't wait until we have a yard. On the other hand it was quite funny when I had to go out and pull Finn out of the mud he was stuck in. No picture, he didn't find it funny at all.

7. Paid maternity leave is great. Like top ten things of all time great.

8. Finn is wearing me out. Tantrums. Grumpy. The ultimate definition of clingy. Won't share. Won't listen. Hits and kicks everyone in sight. The soother, oh the stink'n soother!
But it won't last forever.

9. I love DVR. Enough said.

10. One of the best things about little boys is getting them dressed on Sunday. What could be easier. Three pairs of khakis, three white shirts, three pairs of brown shoes, and three ties. Every single week. And just as cute as the last week.
Brad's Sunday meeting ALWAYS get out late. Consequently we are always in a rush to get out of the house. But if I get them ready too early they just get messy. Easter Sunday I threw them in the chair as Brad was pulling in to the driveway to pick us up. This is the first of three pictures I took. I was pretty surprised when I looked at it later, pretty decent under the circumstances I'd say. Roman sees the need to smile like his life depends on it in every picture lately. So this one's a keeper I guess.

three

2011-03-09T10:26:00.004-07:00

Three weeks old. Ahhhh! Time is going too fast. Three weeks already. His cheeks are too chubby. He has grown out of stuff already - or maybe just relaxed and stretched out. Either way he isn't a newborn anymore and I am so sad! So excuse me if you don't see me for the next few weeks, I'll be in my pjs hanging out on my bed while my kids play next to me and watch movies all day so I can cuddle this little boy to death.

Oscar

2011-03-06T15:17:00.010-07:00

Oscar Edward Davis
Born February 15th at 8:34 am
7 pounds 9 ounces, 20 inches long

It was going to be a good week. Monday was Valentines Day, we had a nice little family Valentines dinner and a few treats. Tuesday the 15th I was going to go for my massage and then a manicure. Wednesday the 16th, my birthday, I was going to meet Brad for lunch with no kids and then get a pedicure. You know, gotta have nice nails while you are in labour.
But Oscar had other plans. He came 6 days early. Totally unexpected. I was fully ready and just fine to go to my due date or overdue just like with Roman and Finn.
I woke up Tuesday morning at 5:30 to some cramping. I have had a pretty crampy pregnancy so I didn't think too much of it. Tried to sleep. Realized by 6:00 they weren't just cramps, they were coming and going. Okay, I tell myself it must just be braxton hicks, I'm not having this baby for another week. I'm leaking amniotic fluid, but I'm still not convinced. I can't sleep so I have a shower. I'm sooo in denial. This baby is not coming.
There was no lead up, the contractions were strong right from the start. Okay okay so maybe I should time a few. 2-3 minutes. Crap. Brad is up asking what we are going to do. I had a shower so or course I'm going to dry my hair, and I might as well put on makeup. By this point I'm stopping to bend over and having to breath through them. Chrystal and born at home baby Mia enter my mind and I panic and realized this is the real thing (remember I was induced with both my others) Brad calls my dad at 7:00 and I am chucking whatever I can find into a bag to take to the hospital. We get up to the Labour and Delivery unit at 7:45, I'm dilated to a 7. I cry because I can't have an epidural. I wave to my brother in law the obstetrical resident on call as they rush me to a delivery room, and no, he did not join us for the delivery! I got the obstetrician on call because my doctor was out of town. Turned out good though, I liked Dr. Malach. So he breaks my water and after much whining, complaining about missing my massage, and frantic incoherent speech on my part mixed with apologies for my actions between contractions, Oscar made his grand entrance.
It was crazy how fast it all happened, but so nice at the same time that it was so fast. I just love that feeling you get after having a baby. There is no way to describe it. The total euphoria, rush of emotions, slightly in shock, total high of having a baby. Minutes before was pure agony and in a split second I see my baby born and all is right with the world.

hello belly

2011-02-05T08:46:00.006-07:00

It just never gets old.

weekend fun

2011-01-25T08:11:00.002-07:00

The weather was finally nice enough to play outside. The wind took a lot of the snow away, but we still found some for sledding. The kids had so much fun. And it made me feel better about only having the energy to clean half the house!

Roman the crazy driver in mid crash.

Lucky little Finn still gets pulled up the hill, so he was all smiles the whole time!
I tried one run, the belly kinda gets in the way. So Brad's 6'4" is squished on behind Finn. Lucky grandma and grandpa came too to help with the hauling of kids and sleds around.

i love my serger

2011-01-20T13:59:00.009-07:00

My present from Brad and my parents this year was a serger. I love it! The first thing I made with it is these crate covers for our bedroom. We have a ton of open shelving in the built ins beside the window seat in our room. But we wanted to use some of the space for clothes storage. And I wanted to stick with the whole white on white thing I got going on.
Found the tutorial here. It's great because she tells you how to take measurements for whatever size crate you have and then how to adjust the pattern. Very easy to make. So 4 crates, $5 a piece at Walmart and some fabric I had lying around that I think only cost about $5 from the clearance section at Fabricland = $25 total.

In other sewing news... like anyone cares but maybe Rhonda! I like to have one of the kids Christmas presents be something I made. So in addition to the angry birds this year here are their presents from me.
Finn got a cape to match Romans.
Here is the caped crusader in one of his favorite places. The ottoman that I fill with random toys that get left in the living room. Sound like a real comfortable place to sit eh. Strange kids I have!
It's a good thing his present was so easy to sew because Romans was probably the hardest thing I have ever sewn.
All fall he was convinced Santa would bring him a jet pack. A real working jet pack. I finally convinced him you had to be an astronaut to have one. So he says, okay mom how about you just make me one then. It needs to be red. It needs rockets. It needs wings. WHAT! Um okay, here goes nothing as I save it to a week before Christmas. I can hear you now Lindsay - why didn't you just buy the blow up Buzz Lightyear jet pack? Because I'm cheap and a sucker for punishment okay!
The inside is a piece of foam. The cover for the foam wasn't hard, and the red "rockets" weren't bad. The problem was the wings. I wandered around home depot for awhile and found random stuff in the plumbing section to use. And the hard part was making the pocket for the wings to be stored in. But if I can brag a bit, I think it turned out pretty cool! So the wings are hooked on by elastic and come out of their little pocket to stick into some random plumbing thing that is glued into the felt. Make sense? But Romans favorite thing about the jet pack, besides snapping and unsnapping the buckles a millions times, is the fuel indicator. There are pulls on each end to make the red fuel line go up or down. Here we wings folded in and almost out of rocket fuel.
I'm glad he loves it so much, but I will never again make another jet pack as long as I live.

santa's sleigh... a little late!

2011-01-19T16:10:00.005-07:00

So Christmas is well behind us now, but I have to post this because I love it. And I can't kid myself that next year I will get around to posting it.
My plant ledge was looking a little sparse with decorations all around the house. Found a sleigh by searching for clip art online. Had Brad cut me some scraps of wood at the shop. Used my mom's projector to enlarge and trace the outline. Then painted and antiqued it with wood stain. So easy! Easy to store too as it is 3 pieces. I'm thinking to concept could be cute in a kids room. Maybe on canvas. Like an airplane or something.

angry birds

2011-01-11T13:02:00.004-07:00

Seriously one of my kids favorite Christmas presents.
They both love the game and saw the advertisement on the game - gotta love how they do that - for the angry bird toys.
Roman was just sure he was going to get one for Christmas. Not going to happen.
But then I came across the tutorial by obsessively stitching on how to make the red angry bird!
I used the same pattern for the blue one and changed up the face a bit. Then made up the yellow one by cutting 4 triangles for the body. They both got a set. I made my cute nephew Eli a bird too and I am so happy he loves it as much as my kids do!
Obsessively stitching has since added tutorials for all the birds and the pigs. We made some pigs yesterday. And by we I mean the kids helped by watching movies and eating treats and not bugging me while I made them. Ha ha!
So for family night (after a wonderfully spiritual lesson of course) we took turns making towers out of Roman's other favorite present and the kids had a blast throwing their angry birds to get the pigs. Do you remember these big cardboard blocks when we were kids? One of Santa's better ideas, Roman loves to build with them. I highly recommend them. Only problem is they take up tons of room.
So go make some angry birds and throw them around the house. I promise you will soon be addicted to the cute little things.

happy new year!

2011-01-01T13:59:00.016-07:00

What better way to spend New Years Eve than with a humidifier, vicks vapor rub, and cuddling a coughing toddler. Who am I kidding I was too lazy to go out anyway. Brad got our island pieces stained though! Just think, when we finally finish everything on the house it will be like a new house all over again.

So Roman was looking over my shoulder when I was looking at a friends blog post about her son's birthday and he was right upset I don't have pictures of his birthday. Um, can you really go back 10 months and put up pictures of something? Is that allowed in blog land? I guess maybe if I disguise it as a look back at 2010 it will work right?
So here goes, a few things the blog missed in 2010...

Roman's robot birthday party - 4th birthday
Summer at the Lake
Halloween
Best friends
Christmas
Whenever Brad wears a Lakers t shirt these two mini Brads thing they need their Lakers gear on. I don't like boys in purple, but apparently I'm outvoted.
Our book advent calendar - the kids LOVED it!
Painting presents for grandmas.
They loved their Santa hats.
Christmas eve pajamas.
Opening presents. Finn wasn't too impressed that present opening was cutting into his morning routine, but after a little chocolate and seeing a few toys he was good to go. Roman took many breaks to play with his toys before moving on. Santa's present of huge building blocks was a hit!

birthday boy

2010-09-09T14:06:00.008-06:00

My baby turned 2 last Saturday, September 4th. Poor boy was sick on his birthday. Bad cold lovingly given to him by his brother. And then he passed it on to me. But we still had a fun birthday. Nothing major this year. Just grandparents over for dinner and some presents and cake. We were hoping to be in our house and have a nice big party with our friends. Some other time I suppose. But he had fun. And that is all that matters.

Here is his birthday cake. A dump truck in case you can't tell. My first attempt at marshmallow fondant. It was fun to do, but yucky to eat in my opinion. Everyone just kinda dug the cake out to eat it. But I wanted to practice with it because my sister wants me to make her wedding cake.
He didn't want to blow out the candles, just wanted to eat all 4 cookie tires. And he had so much fun with his presents. This is the VERY loud garbage truck uncle Kurt got him. See the look of working so hard on his face.
Um, no good pics of other presents I see. But I do have some nice pictures of your birthday mischief and your poor sick eyes and runny nose.
Daddy left out a red permanent marker. Forget the fact that I fell asleep on the couch for 15 minutes. I blame the late night girls night and Brad. It is not my fault at all. Oh ya, and Roman as he watched him color on 14 different things, including his own forehead, before he thought to wake me up. Luckily everything was either a hard surface that a magic eraser could tackle or skin, which surprisingly came clean with a good scrub with a baby wipe. The chair cushion is another story.
I have been ignoring it. But I read online in a few places that WD40 gets is out? I think I'll try that, then just flip it to the other side. At least the rest of the chair is okay.
And that Mr. Finn is your 2nd birthday.

hello hello

2010-09-02T21:59:00.007-06:00

It's that time again, it's been 3 months so I better update. He he. No excuses. It's my blog. And I just plain haven't been feeling it. It's was summer. And we have been busy doing summer things. And busy doing house things. Brad is there as we speak getting things ready to start the hardwood. We are getting close, so so close. I have color on my walls. I am starting to get excited. Then I add up the costs and the excitement goes away. But then I remember I get my life back in a month or so. Sorry mom and dad. I can't thank you enough for letting us live at your house while we build, but that's how it feels right now. Like my life has been on hold and I can start again soon. I am sure you feel totally the same way, and I can't blame you. My kids can be annoying. And so can I. Especially because I have been so darn lazy and crazy the last seven months.
I do not recommend getting pregnant and being nauseated and so so tired for three months and then having a miscarriage and being totally hormonal for a month and then getting pregnant right away and being nauseated and so so tired for another three months all while living at your parents house and sending your husband away to build your house. I'm done. I'm spent. I can't believe I still have 5 more months of being pregnant. I have been patiently waiting for the energy of the second trimester to kick in. It's taking it's own sweet time in getting here. But I am thankful to be pregnant. It's a blessing. So I will smile, and take diclectin and cat nap while my kids eat fruit snacks with me on the couch. And come the end of February I will be a mother of 3 kids.

And speaking of being pregnant, in August at 12 weeks pregnant I did my first triathlon. A super sprint. And I loved it. I can't wait to do another one next summer. Unfortunately next summer I won't have being pregnant to use as an excuse for a bit slower time! I promised myself and Brad I wouldn't push too hard in the training or the race. I had been nervous, being 12 weeks along as that was when I had my miscarriage. I know I know, nothing I did caused it. But I was still nervous. I did hold back in the race a bit, but I was okay with that. I'll try harder next summer. I did it in 48 minutes and something seconds. A friend lent me her tri suit and bike. I feel like a bit of a poser in the suit, but it really was comfortable. And the bike was awesome. I want Santa to bring me a new bike. The best part was when Roman was cheering for me at the end.
Here I am in my nice tight suit before heading to the race. Roman was cheering here too. I'll take any cheering I can get, even from a 4 year old who was totally excited to play in the bouncy house while I was doing the race.
I know I didn't look great in the tight suit, but I really didn't think I looked as bad as I did. I can't believe I'm putting these pictures up. Don't worry, I'll keep the worst ones to myself. And don't bother with the oh you look fine comments. I'm pregnant and fat. My jeans tell the truth. So just drop it. You know you have all been there.
Transition to bike. Lovely squinty face I'm making isn't it.
Finishing up with the run.
Whoever said black is slimming is an idiot. These black shorts do nothing for my butt. Next year my goal is to have a nice tight butt like Lindsay there on the right. Sorry Lins, but your butt looks good in those new shorts!

And with that lovely picture I will end my ramblings and step over the dump trucks and swords on the floor and collapse on the couch with a can of Dr. Pepper. The bubbles ease the nausea if you must know.

pancakes

2010-06-07T21:05:00.006-06:00

Roman eats pancakes every morning.
EVERY morning.
One morning last week he ate yogurt instead and I felt lost for half the day.
Too bad Roman's mom isn't cool enough to make a pancake like this

Or this
Or this
Check out this guys blog.
Jim's Pancakes

And I need a good recipe for whole wheat pancakes. Anyone? I take the easy way out with the just add water box. But since it is every morning something more nutritious might be nice!

spoke too soon

2010-04-27T20:44:00.005-06:00

Well remember a few days ago when I was talking about being pregnant, lets just pretend that never happened...
Had a miscarriage yesterday. 12 weeks.
Just thought I would use the blog to let everyone know so I can hopefully avoid it face to face as much as possible.
I'm actually doing better than I would have thought I would. I kinda had some vague symptoms and had to wait a bit to see a doctor and then it all happened on it's own. So with the waiting time I kinda came to terms with it.

These two have helped immensely without even knowing it.
And of course Brad. I can't even express how much. I love you B.

When the first symptoms stared I knelt down to pray and the words just wouldn't come to me. I knew at that moment the baby was gone. I prayed for strength and comfort and have received it tenfold. My usual pessimistic attitude has turned glass half full and I feel quite peaceful. Very very sad, but peaceful at the same time. I feel loved by my husband, by my family, by my friends, and by my Father in Heaven.

circumcision

2010-04-24T09:52:00.005-06:00

Did I get your attention? Guess you should have been at Lin's house last night and you would know what I am talking about...
I love that I have such great friends. Really do feel blessed. Especially because I have been a bit of a grumpy recluse the last few months and they just smile. The also let me complain about my butt that has literally doubled in size over the past three weeks. If you haven't been around to be lucky enough to hear my go on and on about how much weight I have gained then you don't know I pregnant. Yep, baby three is three months down six months to go. Due November 9th-ish. I say later but whatever. Anyway, this has been a hard pregnancy. Been so much sicker than the other two. My parents have been awesome (we are still living in their basement - only a few more months till the house is done) letting me nap and be lazy and sleep in. But I'm starting to feel better. But the hardest part has been the weight gain. I can honestly say I did not complain once about any weight gain during pregnancy (after is another story!) with the other two. But I have really packed on the pounds. My mom is the only one who will be honest with me and tell me it's true. I think I will be bringing back the 90's and tying a huge sweatshirt around my waist for the next 6 months.
But enough about that. Blogging. Just haven't been feeling it lately. Not just because of the pregnancy. Not because there hasn't been stuff going on. Just not in a bloggy mood. Haven't been taking many pictures. They all look white trash, living in my parent's basement, old ugly stained couch, no room for anything so it's always a mess. Don't believe me? Here you go.
Jealous of my beach towel curtains? How about my pile of clean clothes that really have no home. Dressers piles with crap that just has no where to go. No wonder I am constantly loosing things.

Poor Christal is constantly having to listen to me vent about how I don't feel like myself. I am so grateful to my parents, but I feel like I am lost in this basement. I haven't touched my sewing machine in months. I miss it but I just can't make myself sew. I am super lazy. I just feel kinda stuck in one place with all these things I want to do and be as a mom or a person, but I just can't do them right now. But the house is getting close. And the weather is getting better. We have spent so much time outside all week. So things are starting to look up.
Got all that out of my system, so some good old happy useless blog posts to come. Stay tuned...

I love the Olympics!

2010-02-28T13:59:00.008-07:00

What, you were sick of looking at a New Year's post? As if. Maybe no one is left out there to even read my blog anymore.

But I'm back - from Vancouver that is. Not making any promises about the blog...

So the story goes, we always planned on going to the Olympics in Vancouver. Then we started building a house and Brad decided we needed to be more responsible. I whined and whined to no avail. Then the Olympics started. And Brad thought hmm, it would have been fun to go. But we could never get tickets now. Ha! apparently he doesn't know who he is dealing with. An email to Bev and we were in! Bev, my dad's cousin, works ticketing for the Olympics. She has done it for years and is the best at it, seriously in high demand. She is awesome! She was who we stayed with in Greece and now she is in London getting ready for 2012, better start saving for my ticket to London eh!
The tickets on Air Canada were actually a really good price. Dixie and Rhonda watched my kids Sunday and my parents had them on Monday - thanks again we never could have done it without you guys! And Lin's brother Peter and his wife let us stay at their apartment the night we were there. It was a short trip, two days, but it was so worth it!
We probably should have taken more pictures, we kinda kept forgetting we had a camera! But here's a bit of what we got.
Me and Brad waiting to get into Hockey Place. Brad's brother Bryan and our nephew Seth who met us there for the game. Seth waved that flag the whole time, even on the way out when Canada had lost. It was hilarious. The Russians. They were everywhere, and were hilarious hardcore fans. The view from our awesome 14th row seats at the hockey game!

I loved this baby, sat there in the carrier with headphones on for the entire game. Us all Canada geared up at the game. The sea of red after a goal! Before the game started our Golden Canadian was interviewed - the crowd went crazy!

On to curling the next day. Couldn't complain about row 6 seats just behind Canada's rink! Visiting the flame. Looks way cooler in real life than on tv.

Waited in line at The Bay Store and brought back some Canada stuff for the kids. It was awesome how everyone wanted all the Canada gear. Lucky we got our mittens before we went! Sochi house. Heard it was cool inside, but super long lines (just like everywhere else!). Swiss house. Line for the restaurant, went into the bar instead. But it stunk so bad! They were serving some kind of melted cheese spread on toast and neither of us could stand the smell so we left! If we could have stayed one more night we could have gone to Heineken House, Bev is good friends with the guy who runs it. Oh well. Just hanging out in the sun at the marina with BC place in the background. My Canada toque boys.

Roman walks around the house singing "Canada is gunna win, oh ya oh ya!" He loves to watch the Canadian bobsled run on tevo. And he doesn't mind the speed skating, which he refers to as the wiggly skaters. I've done my job, passing on an Olympic obsession to my child as my parents did to me!

Thanks so much Bev! You rock. And thanks to you too Laurie. And we had tons of fun at lunch with the fam too!
I am so glad we ended up going, it was amazing!

Happy New Year

2010-01-02T20:58:00.004-07:00

Hope you all had a great Christmas, we did! Have a great new year! I'm excited to see what this year brings... but mostly right now just excited to get our house done!

No - Nooooooo!

2009-12-15T22:35:00.006-07:00

I did it. I finally said no. To work. It was hard. I worked an immunization clinic today so I would have got double time if I went to work a night tonight. But I said no. To double time. This is a big step for me people. I share it with you so you can praise me and tell me how awesome I am. Never mind the fact that I had no one to watch my kids tomorrow so I wouldn't have slept and that Brad told me to say no... The point is I said no. And now I am at home in my pajamas eating too many cookies that the lovely RC and fam brought us. And soon I will crawl into bed instead of taking care of sicko kiddies. And I will be happy. All because I said no. I should try this more often!

Nothing like sharing some germs. Lots of snotty noses around here!

tree time

2009-12-12T11:50:00.003-07:00

It would be great if I was one of those awesome moms who can hand the Christmas tree over to her kids. Let them make ornaments and clump them on wherever they want. And let her husband use colored Christmas lights that remind him of his childhood. And maybe even let them have a real tree and deal with the needles everywhere.
But I'm not that awesome mom.
And it's funny, because it's not like I have this gorgeous tree if I do it how I want. But in my dreams it's a perfect tree.
So since I'm not that awesome mom it's a good thing I have an awesome husband. A husband who as we speak is on his way home with a new tree. A skinny tree. A prelit with white lights tree. A tree that I saw last night at D and C's Christmas party and wanted so bad. A tree that will have no home until next Christmas when I am in my house. A tree just for me.

I have no tree this year. I get to try to keep my kids out of my moms tree and keep them from breaking anything Christmas related. Here is a bit of my tree and my baby face big boy and my chubbers baby last year. Isn't it crazy when you look at pictures of your kids and think how the heck has been a whole year already!

tired

2009-12-01T23:06:00.010-07:00

I'm tired of working so much.
I'm tired of at least 4 shifts a week.
You know you work like a crazy person when you work an 8 hour night and then head right on over to an immunization clinic for 5 hours.
I'm tired of giving people H1N1 shots.
I'm tired of dreaming about immunization instructions because I give them 300 times a day.
I'm tired of having not done a dang thing for Christmas because I work too much.
I'm tired of not being excited for Christmas because I have done nothing and because I have no house.
I'm tired of trying to organize everything for my house on my breaks at work.
I'm tired of the government taking so much of my money. What was the point of picking up so many extra shifts if they just take it all away?
My body is tired.
My husband is tired of me working so much.
My mind is tired.
And worst of all my kids are tired.
I'm tired of my little mama's boy being all about daddy.
"but mom I will miss you when you go to work" Most of all I'm tired of not hearing this. He doesn't even ask if I am working anymore. He just assumes I am.
That is just too much.
I'm tired.
I'm going to bed.
I'm going to call staffing in the morning and drop some shifts.

Kudos to working mom's everywhere.

happy halloween

2009-10-31T21:10:00.015-06:00

Sit down. Don't fall off your chair. I am posting something in a timely manner for once.
A little of the October festivities around our house.

Ate pancake pumpkins a few times this month.
Cookie time.
Would you like a tiny bit of cookie with your icing?
Let's give out mom's to your friends and keep yours for us okay Roman. Okay mom.
Some good old costume store toys.
Ready for the Halloween party. Who knows what's up with my pose.
Carving time.
Some family trick or treating OZ style.
My cuties.
Little Skunk. Finn's daytime costume. Yes he needed a daytime costume. It was just too cute not to. Went all over town and enjoyed people telling me how cute my kids were! Ha Ha! Thanks for letting us borrow it Jill.

The little tail is my favorite part.
We love us some Halloween at our house!

Off to raid the kids candy and watch a movie with Mr. Skywalker, minus the wig...

your opinion matters, really it does, don't listen to my husband when he tells you not to influence me...

2009-10-14T22:15:00.007-06:00

Okay people. Indecisive me needs some help.
I can't find a picture that will post and not be fuzzy.
So go here.
Click on "SILGRANIT Sinks" link.
top right hand, click on "view drop in sinks"
Middle of third row - Diamond Maxi sink.
And think to yourself, if I was buying a house with this kitchen sink would I love it or hate it?
Single bowl, so great for soaking a roaster, big bun pans, big pots.
It is just as wide as a regular sink.
I love it. But I love weird things sometimes. And we don't know if we are staying forever or trying to sell in a few years.
So what do you think?

Also, what is your opinion on flooring in the master bedroom - hardwood or carpet?

eating off the treats shelf
loving the dirt piles at the lot
Insisted on going to Lethbridge like this today, lion nose and whiskers a must.

a few to remember

2009-10-04T18:12:00.002-06:00

After spinning around a ton Roman stops and then says: hey guys, the house is all dizzy!

Brad read him Hiawatha's Bear Hunt at bedtime.
Brad: and Hiawatha went home to his teepee
Roman: no dad, it's a peepee
Brad: Um, no it's not. It's a teepee. Say teepee.
Roman: No, it's a peepee
They argued for awhile and finally Brad gave up.

So now we can add teepee to the x rated list of toddler words in our house.
teepee = peepee
pepperoni=peckeroni
corn = porn
kitty = titty

Roman likes to be a lion. A lion with plaws, not claws. Anyway, one night I was getting him undressed and then into his pajamas
Roman, while buck naked: mom, lick my bum.
Me: What did you say?
Roman: I said lick my bum. Lions lick their bums.
Me: Well people don't lick bums.
Roman: But mom I'm a lion.
Me: Well then lick your own bum.
Roman: But mom (always has a but mom or bud dad) I can't reach it.
He tries to reach it. Luckily he can't.
I changed the subject.

one

2009-09-16T22:24:00.003-06:00

One year old.
My little Finn turned one year old on Friday September 4th.
He looks too tiny to be one. Tiny to me anyway, everyone else thinks he is huge. Such is life as a Davis baby I guess.
It went by so fast. SO FAST. Is it funny to look back over the last year. I liked times of it more than Roman's first year. And then other times I enjoyed Roman's first year more. Make sense? I am looking forward to the next year. Learning more about Finn's personality. He kinda hides it. Roman was less of a mystery in a way. Still, they always manage to surprise you just when you think you have them figured out right.
It's amazing how the love multiplies. For Brad, seeing him with two boys. For my sweet little Finn. No questions asked, just pure love from day one. And for Roman too. I thought I already loved him as much as I could, but I was wrong. Seeing him with his brother melts my heart and adds a whole new dimension to the love.

So Finn. One year old.
- not walking yet, but standing for longer periods of time and walking along furniture
- has a goofy crinkly nose smile
- needs a haircut, really bad
- loves food with flavor and salt. But fruit is his favorite. Some favs this summer are blueberries, strawberries, raspberries from the garden, watermelon, cherries, and zucchini with butter salt and pepper.
- isn't too fond of swimming
- loves to hit everyone and laughs when I sternly tell him to stop but cries when daddy tells him
- doesn't care for milk in a bottle or sippie cup, but is getting better.
- still breastfeeds. He loves it. I am trying to stop. He is really upset with me this past few weeks for slowly taking it away from him. Grandma and daddy have had to step in for some extra cuddles.
- has a temper. Big time. Should make for some fun tantrums over the next few years.
- rides well and sleeps well in the car
- goes for walks and bike rides good in the chariot as long as he has some snacks
-only uses a soother to sleep
- still takes 2 naps a day. anywhere from 30 min to and hour and a half. Totally unpredictable.
- goes to bed really good
- is a huge mommas boy
- idolizes his big brother
- loves to get a hold of Romans favorite toys when Ro isn't around. Gets a huge grin on his face and giggles like he is getting away with murder
- has such a cute little laugh
- loves bath time
- loves climbing up stairs, but refuses to learn how to get back down
- has 2 top teeth and 4 bottom ones
- loved his birthday cake

superheros rock

2009-08-31T22:23:00.003-06:00

And I have a bit of a crush on this one.
Super Ro-ee, as he calls himself.
He was super excited when he found his super hero shirt in the pile of clean laundry.
He asked super politely if he could wear his cape to Lethbridge and wear it in all the stores.
I secretly super love when he asks because everywhere we go he jumps around with a super big smile on his face watching his cape fly behind him. And everyone we pass smiles and points and whispers about the cute little boy in his cape. And I can't help but have a super day of running boring errands.
Super Ro-ee to the rescue!

Blah. No title.

2009-08-29T09:57:00.007-06:00

I can't believe none of you called me on my lam-o post with pictures from last summer.
I didn't take my camera anywhere this summer. I think I took it to the lake on one out of four trips. No parks. No pools. No first of July. Not even in the back yard. Poor Finn will probably develop a complex from the lack of pictures of his childhood. But Brad had his camera a few times so lets see what is on his...
Anyone in out parent preschool group from last year knows of Mr. R and his sweet dance moves. Well I'm not sure sweet is the right word, but we'll be generous and call them sweet. He danced his way through the parade this year.
This is the only picture I got of me and my boys on the first of July. Believe it or not the white shirts actually stayed pretty clean.

Brad took Roman fishing at the lake. One of the pictures R took. Yeah, he's got an eye for photography.

So proud of his fish. He likes to be the net guy while daddy gets the fish. He touched it once and that was enough for him. He says it felt wiggly. Well okay then. I wouldn't touch it either. Fishing is so not my thing. But I am sure in a few years when Brad takes the boys out all day I will be loving fishing!

Well that's all for now. Later folks.

hello there

2009-08-25T21:51:00.008-06:00

Does anyone still read this thing?
I'm a tad bit embarrassed at my lack of posting.
You know it's bad when your husband offers to play with the kids so you can get a post up.
Despite the rainy weather we have been busy having fun this summer. I lost count on how many fun trips to the lake in Montana we have had. Pool time. Park time. Lots of good walks with good friends. Had a fantastic 7th anniversary with my amazingly awesome husband yesterday. Love him more and more each year. Just your usual summer stuff. I must say I have been a little sad at not having my own house to have people over to or have BBQs at. But I am so loving that my family is putting up with us living here while we "build" a house.
House stuff has consumed so much of my time this summer. Annoying, but oddly satisfying at the same time. And also very sad, because for all the time it consumes we have nothing to show for it yet! Keep your fingers crossed, we should be digging the hole and pouring the basement next week. I won't go into all the delays, most of you have listened to me drone on and on about it already.
So that's us. I am so completely lazy that I have not downloaded any pictures from my camera. I have been really bad at taking pics this summer anyway. So let me just go digging into the files of what we were doing last summer at this time...
Me almost a year ago. This is as we were heading to the hospital to be induced on my due date. Oh man that is a big ol' belly! At least I can look back now and laugh at my fat self right!
But oh so worth it.

Finn. Almost one year old. I refuse to believe it has almost been a year. Quite sad actually that his first year flew by so fast and I feel like I was gone for half of it or something. We called him the lump for awhile. So content just to sit around. Apparently he finally realized he has red hair and his feisty fiery side has come out. He has some attitude now! Love my little Finney bean.

I'll try harder. I'll get better. Stay tuned, more posts and newer pictures to come.

mr. milk

2009-07-02T21:32:00.003-06:00

This little guy is a mommy milk lover.
Sure Roman liked milk. But he would breastfeed or take milk or formula in a bottle. Not picky at all.
Finn will not drink from a bottle. He won't drink milk from a sippie cup either. He will only breastfeed. And he wants to feed every three or four hours even though he is fully eating solids too. And he still gets one or two feedings at night. I never really noticed I was still feeding him that much. He's quick and it makes him so content and happy. But I realized the other day he is 10 months old, and that might be a bit too many feeds for a 10 month old! Especially because I need to think about weaning him so I can go back to work a bit in September. And because these little chompers don't feel so hot as he scarfs down his milk!
Roman weaned himself and was done breastfeeding by 10 months. So I have no idea what I am doing. The last week I cut down from 5 to 4 feeds. That went okay. The last two days I tried to go to 3. Poor Finn is so sad and grumpy. It has completely changed his personality. And when he does get breast milk he is high as a kite. Smiles and giggles and has a dreamy look in his eyes. It really is like a drug for him!

Any tips? Cutting back and cutting out night feeds? Getting him to take milk from a bottle? I am going to have Brad try to feed him from a bottle and see if it helps that it is not me feeding him. Other than that I am stumped.

can you keep a secret?

2009-06-22T18:41:00.005-06:00

Roman can't!

He wanted to color today. So I had him color a birthday card for Brad (birthday tomorrow).
We went over and over it - don't tell daddy about the birthday card until tomorrow. It's a surprise. Don't tell him when he comes home from work.
Insert Charlie Brown at school - wah wah, wah wah wah, wah wah wah. Cause I think that is what it is like when I talk to him half the time.
Daddy comes home from work. The first words out of Roman's mouth - you guessed it - daddy I made you a birthday card today! But doooon't look. (said all serious with his hands up in the air to stop him) It is in the drawer where mommy puts all her stuff by the bed, but doooon't look.
After dinner we went downstairs. Roman took Brad over to my bedside table and said dad doooon't look in there. That is where your birthday card is.
He went to play.
Came back a few minutes later. Dad come look at your birthday card, but only look a little bit. Just for a minute.
Brad told him that's okay I'll wait until my birthday.
But it's okay dad if you look for just a little minute.
Brad distracted him and didn't look.

Never a dull moment with three year olds eh!

deeee-zaaaaa -ster

2009-05-26T21:22:00.010-06:00

Disaster.
My house and my mind.
I find that I can't really think straight the past few days. Last week I did good. Packed quite a few boxes. Made lots of phone call. Got going on this whole lets sell our house and build one even though we have no clue what we are doing or how much it will actually cost in the end. Brad says we do know what we are doing. We will see.
Anyway, this week, total flop. I find myself wandering around looking for things to put in boxes and not coming up with much. We are still using everything that isn't in a box. Actually we needed a few things that I did put in boxes. But thankfully Brad just ate cereal out of a HUGE tupperware and didn't say a thing about my not leaving any bowls out.
So I am officially the crazy wife I become when it comes time to move. I get way overly stressed. And what do I do to deal with that? Flop down on the couch during Finn's nap and read a book while Roman watches a movie and poops in his gonchies because I'm not paying attention. Of all the days for him to finally become interested in underwear??? Go figure.
We are moving into my parent's basement this weekend. And then we have a week until our house closes. So things should be a lot easier to pack once all the things that need to stay out are with us at my parent's house. Then I can begin the ol' chuck anything you touch into whatever box is next to you style of packing I am famous for. Brad might say infamous though... I will admit it makes for a total pain in the arse unpacking experience.

I miss the days of living in a furnished apartment as a student.
Step one: take blankets off bed so only flat sheet remains.
Step two: throw all belongings on bed in any order you please.
Step three: Grab ends of sheets and tie over top of huge pile.
Step four: repeat process with fitted sheet.
Step five: Shove one bundle in trunk and one in backseat and drive away.

So tonight the young mens service project got cancelled. Brad didn't want to let them off the hook so he brought them here. And made me find stuff they could load into the trailer.
The cupboard I use as a pantry.
The basement couch I am using as a clean laundry basket.
Romans toy cupboard.
Lovely.
Then he goes back into work. And I escape to the computer to ignore the mess before I pull all my hair out.

Now I am going to bake sugar cookies. And eat too many. And think about maybe cleaning up tomorrow. I said MAYBE.

I wanted this house sold, I wanted this move, I wanted a new house, I wanted this, I wanted this, I wanted this...

Here's captain underpants in action with his telescope. Who knew that the best telescopes are the cleaning attachments to your vacuum. I cleaned it people! I'm not that lazy.

chariot

2009-05-22T14:06:00.005-06:00

I am selling my old Chariot. It is a double Cabriolet. Includes all three attachments - the bike, jogger, and walking (swivel) wheels. I also have the infant sling for it, the mesh cover, and the rain cover. It is older but in good condition. So I am asking $400 for it. (a new one with all three attachments would be at least $800 or more)
Anyone interested? Or do you know anyone who would be interested?

email me at bwrdavis@telus.net

I am also selling my single Schwinn jogging stroller. It has the rain cover that goes with it. The adjustable handle doesn't adjust anymore - it has to either be all the way up or all the way down. But still good to walk or jog with.
Asking $50 OBO.

Sorry, not a very interesting post! But I thought I would try to sell them to someone I know before I list on Kijiji or facebook.

So the jogging stroller, the chariot, our old Honda, our Jimmy, and our house - let me see if I can think of anything else to sell...

Roman Henry

2009-05-21T22:00:00.002-06:00

Roman - dad will you shave the fur off your face so I can feel your skin again?
Walking over to me - mom you don't have fur, you have nice skin.

Oh man do I love that boy!

a few extra calories

2009-05-19T20:53:00.005-06:00

Okay, a LOT more than a few extras. Especially because I polished off the leftovers in 2 days all by myself.
On Sunday I made this.
Ignore the lovely avocado green cake taker. A cake stand is high on my lists of wants, but I have yet to find one I love - that I can afford.
But even surrounded by avocado green this little beauty was DELISH! I love sweets. Love them. I have no self control when it comes to them. None at all. I can usually control myself on chocolate deserts. Sometimes I even make myself proud and pass on chocolate. I am all about berries or citrus. So when I saw this on The Pioneer Woman Cooks I was so excited.
Strawberry Shortcake Cake.
I was too busy eating my cake to take a picture of the inside. This is PW's picture.
Are you hungry yet?
It was the most deliciously scrumptious batter you have ever tasted. A mix between cake batter and cookie dough. I licked the spatula. I licked the beater. I used my fingers to lick to bowl. I even went so far as to get a clean spoon just to have one more taste of what was in the cake pan. And the cake did not disappoint. Mashed juicy strawberries hidden inside. Cream cheese icing. Which I am not really a fan of, until now. Why has no one ever told me to whip the crap out of cream cheese icing? The best cream cheese icing I have ever tasted.
I can't wait until I have fresh peaches and raspberries this summer to try with this cake.

I need an excuse to bake it again. Anyone want to have a party and invite me and my cake?

i heart the internet

2009-05-10T20:13:00.010-06:00

I love the internet. I love the internet because it sold my house!
Last week we had an offer from a couple in Ontario who found our house on the internet. A full price offer, site unseen. They had already sold their house. And in a few days they were approved for financing and approved the house inspection.
So as of Friday my house was sold!
They take possession on June 8th.
I want to be out a week before so that I can get it cleaned and not feel rushed. We are moving in with my parents while we build. We are putting all our stuff in a big semi trailer that we are parking at my aunts house (thanks again!). The trailer comes to my house this week. It will sit here until we are all packed. So it is nice that I get to do it gradually over three weeks, and put away boxes as I pack. The problem lies in trying to figure out what to pack and what to leave out. Like for now I can pack away our winter clothes, but I will need them before we are done building. So I not only have to pack, I have to organize the whole trailer in a way where I can get to everything I might need.
But who's complaining, my house is sold!

We are as happy as a bear in a cave
as happy as a cake covered boy
as happy as a pirate in pajamas
as happy as a bouncing baby boy

deep thoughts

2009-05-06T21:12:00.004-06:00

Just because your friend gives you a pair of soccer cleats her son grew out of that happen to be the right size for your son and match his jersey and shorts to a tee does not necessarily mean you should let him wear them to soccer. Even when your son begs and begs to wear them because they are the fastest shoes he has. Said cleats will undoubtedly cause much pain to your toes and bring tears to your eyes. Literally tears to your eyes when he walks on your bear feet.

The pain however can be eased slightly by a cute voice saying sorry mom, sorry. And a hug and a kiss initiated by a sticky little face.

Just a few warm up kicks before we head out to soccer.

a real post, sort of

2009-05-04T21:48:00.004-06:00

Wow, times flies. No posts for awhile eh.
I've been busy. But not with anything too exciting. Just the usual life stuff.
I have seen these going around blogland. Joined my cousin's wife's. Anyone interested?

Craft it Forward Exchange.... CIF Exchange is based on the concept of the movie "Pay it forward". I will send a hand made gift three people who leave a comment to this post requesting to join the CIF exchange. All the gifts will be made and sent out sometime within the next year. How exciting to not know when your surprise package will arrive! What you need to do in return, is craft it forward by making the same promise on your blog. All you have to do is promise to post this same Craft It Forward message onto your blog and craft it forward to 3 commenters. I'd love for you to join me! Will you? Come and join me who doesn't love a gift or giving gifts? This offer does have some restrictions and limitations: 1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make! 2. What I create will be just for you. 3. It'll be done this year. 4. You have no clue what it's going to be or when you will get it. 5. The catch is that you must post this on your blog and offer the same to 3 people who do the same on your blog.

So is anyone in? It is supposed to be the first 3 people that comment. But I am going to wait a few days and then just pick three names out of a hat. My blog my rules. You do it how you like if you are one of the lucky ones picked.
So leave a comment if you feel like getting crafty! Not necessarily crafty as in crazy sewing chick like me. Make a wood craft, vinyl letters, bake something yummy, whatever you can think of. You have a year to do it, so maybe learn something new.

Anyway, lets see if anyone is interested first... anyone? someone has got to want something from me...

what the 8 months??? I just realized that today is the 4th. That means my baby boy is 8 months old. CRAZY!

another giveaway

2009-04-27T08:56:00.002-06:00

Simple finds has another great give away. A $25 gift certificate to Shade clothes.
I am trying so hard to not shop online right now. I am trying to get better at saving money. But everywhere has the cutest clothes and swimsuits for summer! I'm resisting, I'm resisting...

swimsuit

2009-04-17T08:28:00.002-06:00

I shouldn't mention this, because then I won't win. But I won't win anyway, so here you go. Simple finds is giving away a Layers swimsuit! They are the cutest ones out there this season - I was so disappointed with the selection from Modbe this year. I want one so bad, but I am resisting buying one. In an effort to simplify and save money. I'm trying so hard, they are so cute!

disclaimer

2009-04-06T14:22:00.002-06:00

Okay, to clarify Lindsay would never laugh at anything you or I were wearing. I only meant that if you need an honest answer to does my butt look okay in these jeans she is the one to go to. And we all need a friend like that.

And I also have to say that you can all stop complimenting me in your comments! I really was not doing this whole keeping it real thing to get you to say nice things about me. But I must admit it is a nice added bonus!

Confessions

2009-04-05T23:21:00.001-06:00

Okay lins, you asked for it.
Confessions of sorts:

1. House. Now that we are building (I am trying to stay positive that our house will sell) I am dying to come look in all your houses. I want to know what you like about your house and what you don't. It's funny to me that Lins says she likes my house. I like her house too. And you too Amanda, you made my day on Friday when you told me my house was cute. My house is okay. But I don't love it. There are so many things that I think are a good idea at first, but they just turn out so wrong! I want Britt's house. Or Ashely's. Or really any Wood girls house. And Reagan's too. I think she is a Wood girl separated at birth. My house is the cheap version of Britt's. Kinda a Pottery Barn vs Target. Not that we don't all love target, but you get the idea. Or is it even that good, can I put it in any sort of category with Britt's?!

2. Clothes. It cracks me up when my friends say they love to look in my closet. Because I have such a hard time getting dressed! Don't we all though? I will trade closets with any of you! I do have a few pieces I love. But it's hard to go hang out with the same people when you only have 3 good outfits!
So here it comes - when I am shopping I ask myself "would Brittany wear this?" and "would Lins laugh at me if I wore this" Sorry Lins but it's true! I love your honesty! If the answer is yes and then no then I buy it. Not to say that I always get the answers right, but I'm trying!
I think I will have to add you in there too Christal - because you fit well into both questions! Come on, I know you laugh every time you come to my house and I am yet again answering the door in pajamas. Which brings me to my next confession...

3. Pajamas. I love my pajamas. And I live in them. Literally. I know people say they are more productive if they get up and get dressed. Nope. Not me. I have tried it. When I am out and dressed in jeans or whatever I come home and change right into my pajamas or sweats. Just ask Christal. I was at parent preschool in normal clothes and she came over to drop something off right after, and I was already in my pajamas. Or ask Lindsay. She did a random stop by in the middle of the afternoon and I had been cleaning and was in my pajamas. And even worse, no bra on. Or when your sis in law came over to return the cookie cutter Marissa. Pretty bad because I don't know her very well. No shower, no makeup, and pajamas. What a great impression I made I'm sure. Yep, I am that slob. But I am okay with it. I kinda have to be because I ain't getting out of the comfy clothes anytime soon!

4. The big one - the body. Oh yes I am going there. We all need to get better at taking compliments. I can finally say that yes I am talented at sewing. But when someone tells me I look good it's hard. It's hard when I know full well what I look like naked. Scary. The baby belly and love handles say it all. But we all have complaints about our bodies. And when I tell Jill how amazing she looks after having 4 kids she has the same complaints I do. But I just don't see how she can say she has love handles. So does that mean my love handles look better to everyone else than they do to me? I sure hope so!
So in the name of keeping it real... I showed my lovely love handles and stretch marks and baby belly to some friends the other night. I did that right, it's not just a bad dream? But they asked for it. They were telling me how good I looked. And I thank them for that. But they just needed to know what was hidden under the spandex undershirt! So I'll exercise when I can. I'll hide my flaws as best I can. But until I give up my nightly treats and get serious about exercising I will try to stop complaining about my body. I have no one to blame but myself.

I just thank Heavenly Father daily for my wonderful husband who loves me no matter what I look like. No matter what size I am. No matter how much I complain that I have nothing to wear. No matter how many times I rearrange the decorations in the living room. And no matter how many days he gets home from work and sees me in my pajamas.

ps - the body is so worth it for this

happy april

2009-04-01T17:38:00.006-06:00

I loved Lins's last post. About being more real. Lins and Christal said it best.

"So open up your curtains (or blogs) and let us see how imperfect your life is, and be proud of it. Because perfect just isn't as fun. What do you do with your time? What do you think about when there isn't anything to think about? What's your 'useless' pastime? What are you doing?!"

I'm like Lindsay in that I love to see how people live, I love to see how people tick, and I like knowing that we aren't perfect. When sometimes I feel like I'm not good at anything or can't make cute scrapbook stuff or take professional pictures or look as skinny and beautiful as someone, or have my kids look perfect all the time like it "looks" like some people do.

It can get discouraging if you let it all I guess all I'm saying is that we are not perfect in anyway and we are all alike in more ways then we know.

I too like looking into people's window's when I pass by not in a creepy stalker way but just to see how people live and its kind of like blogging getting that peek into others lives learning from them, and seeing and knowing its OKAY if we aren't all perfect we are trying.....
cause that's the best chance we got -- to keep trying to do the best we can do.

Lins is good at being "real" on her blog. And so is Christal. I would like to get better at that. At opening up. At letting people in.
So you may learn some things about me this next month. And hopefully I will learn to open up a bit more. Because this month I'm keeping it real here on the ol' blog.

I find Christal's comment funny. That's right C, I'm laughing at you. The perfect kids and all. Because C, your kids are perfect all the time. Your house if perfect. And you are perfect. You are always SO put together. I don't know how you do it. Especially with all you have on your plate. But I guess it just goes to show that we view ourselves so differently than other people do sometimes. And I guess that is how the perfect mom myth keeps going.

Now I have been accused by some to be a Martha. I take offense to that! Well, I guess it is kinda true because Martha doesn't do all the work. She has a team behind her doing all the work. Brad is my behind the scenes crew.
Lets take my silly little Halloween party this last year. It's not like I just woke up the day of and threw it all together. I planned. I had lists. We are talking planning like 2 weeks ahead so I could make sure everything got done. I got ideas off the internet. The things we ate came about because they fit into a schedule. I prepared a lot of stuff in advance. I went list crazy. I bossed Brad around. My house looked like a bomb had exploded for a good week. I was up late cleaning the night before the party. Really you could say I am a fool, not a Martha, for all the time and effort I put into it! But it was fun. So I guess a fool I will stay. Any one of you could do the same. And I know all of you have thrown a great party too.

Martha, no. One party worked out for me. Sure I like to bake. And some stuff is yummy. But I have had some major flops lately. Just ask my family. I threw away 2 batches of muffins the other day because they were just nasty. (Not P's great blueberry recipe if you are wondering Lins!) So I will add muffins to the list of things I just can not pull off. Right up there with Jello. That's right, I can't make good Jello.
And yes I am crafty. I can sew. I taught myself, and it took awhile. There have been a few scary projects. But of course I don't put them on the blog! And nothing I make is perfect. But I am okay with that. No one else can tell what is wrong (I hope!)
I'm not a good cook.
I panic at the mention of public speaking.
I am tone deaf and can't sing at all.
I try to run to stay in shape, but a runner I will never be.
I am not good at keeping my house tidy.
I constantly put off sweeping my kitchen floors.
I don't bath my kids everyday. Heck, they are lucky to get bathed every other day.
And if we are really being real - I pick my kids noses.
There you have it. Surely you can see yourself in a better light now that you know I pick my kids noses.

Wow, maybe you don't want to come back for the next post now!

Thanks

2009-03-31T17:25:00.004-06:00

Thanks for the comments, emails, and phone calls. It's nice to know I really do have friends.

It seems that I am not the only one in a funk right now. Do you think it could do with the fact that spring is a big tease?

The days just aren't long enough. The to do list is too long. I feel lost. I need to get it together.
So today I sat down and tried to think of how I can simplify and/or regroup myself. Not a major overhaul - I don't have the patience for that right now! Just tweak a few things in my life.

1. We decided to look for a realtor to sell our house. It would be nice to sell it ourselves and save the commission we will pay. But I am going to let someone else do the work. Maximize our exposure and all that. Make sure everything is covered in the contracts. Hopefully it works!

2. I don't spend a ton of time on face book. I mostly just use it to email. But I do find myself getting distracted by the wall. So randomly today I deleted a ton of "friends". I am down to 77 or something like that. Family and the people I see and talk to the most. Maybe I'll even try to narrow it down from there. We will see. Not a big deal, but it was refreshing.

3. I took a piece of advice from "Simple Mom" and changed the way I do lists. I love my lists, but these days they are a bit out of control. I have lists piling up everywhere. And I am a bit OCD about them too. If they don't look just right I find myself redoing them - constantly. So I am going to have a big list on the computer. That I can update and change at will, but it will still look perfect! And then each day I can write a few things down on a post it. Like simple mom says, MIT's. Most important things. She says pick 3 important things to get done for the day. Anything else I do with just be icing on the cake. (Simple mom has some good downloads of little organized lists and daily planner stuff if you are interested)

4. I really wanted to do the whole get up before the kids and run or shower or whatever. But it's not going to happen. Not right now. It isn't working for Finn. So instead of focusing on how it is not working I am just going to have to work around it right now. I am just going to have to run at night. And grab a shower when I can.

5. I need to get back to some me time. I haven't had my sewing machine out in months. I miss it. Ha ha, laugh if you must. But it has become something I love. It is cathartic. It relaxes me. It gives me a creative outlet. I have realized I am so much more productive in other areas of my life when I have a creative outlet. I have heard a lot of crafters say the same thing. The bad thing is my desk is no longer out - we wanted to make the downstairs seem more roomy. So sewing isn't as accessible. But now I just need to try harder and make time for it. Time for me.

6. I started a journal. I have never kept a journal. But it was a thought that kept nagging at me. So I got a little notebook. And each day I write down 5 things. Literally 5 things, numbered 1-5. Sometimes totally jot notes. Sometimes I write a lot of what I am feeling or thinking. Sometimes it is silly stuff like
1. went grocery shopping.
2. crashed on the couch when the kids went to bed.
3. Made dinner that was super yucky.
I miss days here and there. Sometimes my 5 things covers a few days. But I have been at if for a month now. And I really enjoy it. Try it. In the famous words of Fufa on Yo Gabba Gabba, try it and you'll like it, I tried it and I liked it!

7. Some more me time - I enjoy reading, but I never know what to read. I am not good at finding good books. So I need some suggestions. Lots of suggestions.

8. I need to stop coming up with excuses for things that I should be doing. For example, potty training Roman. He isn't potty trained. Possibly because I have never really tried. He randomly goes on the potty, because he feels like eating a marshmallow. I said I would do it when I was finished painting everything. Then I said I wanted to get the house organized and clean to get it on the market. Then I said I would wait until Finn wasn't sick. Then I had too busy a week coming up. I need to just suck it up and stop avoiding it. I need to act like a mom!

Any other suggestions for me? I know a lot of people said they wanted to simplify this year, how have you done it? And seriously, I need some suggestions for some good books.

Finn doesn't like squash. Me neither!

just something

2009-03-31T08:42:00.000-06:00

I have been feeling sad lately. Sad about something I shouldn't be sad about. Something that doesn't really make one bit of sense. Except to me.
This something goes along with something else that I am so grateful for. Something I have been wanting for a long time. Something that I am not taking for granted.

So how do you keep yourself from being sad, or worrying, or wanting other things?
How is it so easy for me to be so grateful for one blessing but wish for more?
I know I sound a bit coo-coo right now! And selfish too. I know I have been blessed in my life. But sometimes that doesn't change things for me.
I guess I still have a lot of learning and growing to do.

But I know I will get over it.
And move on.
But for now I just had to get that out.

I know that there are far more important things in life than sitting here feeling sorry for myself and being depressed over a silly little something.
More important things like my Roman.
He never fails to make me laugh.

Super Roman to the rescue!

buy me! buy me!

2009-03-27T14:21:00.010-06:00

Our house is for sale. Anyone know anyone who is looking to buy my cute little house? It's on welist right now. We will see how that goes and then if nothing then we will get a relator.

You know when you get an appointment to get your hair colored or cut cause you don't like it, and then the day of the appointment it has never looked better? Well, that's my house right now!
We finally have new carpet in and all the renos done (except the downstaris bathroom, which will be done before we sell, so I'm not counting that) and I am totally loving my house and getting sad that we are selling it. I will miss my huge lot. And all my trees. And the fence to keep Roman locked in! Of course I do want to sell it though, because I am excited to start building.

So here are the pictures that are on welist.
Living room
Kitchen
Our bedroom
Finn's bedroom
Bathroom
Roman's bedroom
Downstairs family room

back to the birthday

2009-03-22T11:24:00.010-06:00

I know you were all just dying to see these pictures of Roman's birthday I promised you. So here you go!
What's a birthday without sprinkle waffles for breakfast. This kid will eat anything with sprinkles on it. I should put sprinkles on broccoli...
This is how we roll at out house. The kitchen table is is finally clean of paint cans, tools, random screws, wood filler, drywall mud, you name it. But for awhile there is was picnic style with the cookie monster towel for all meals.

What, this isn't how you wear it? The Dora birthday hats he picked out with daddy months and months ago. Is it wrong that I hate the fact that he loves Dora? Not because it is annoying and the map song consists of like 4 words sung over and over. But because it is for little girls.

Happy number #3 Roman!
This has got to be one of my favorite pictures lately. Roman, not a big fan of cake. But o how he loves frosting. So three cupcakes out of the freezer, some way too runny frosting - oops, and of course the essential sprinkles made for one happy birthday boy. I made a lemon loaf bunt cake for the rest of us.
A quick shirt change after the frosting and we are good to go.
Loving the new apron and oven mitts I made him for his birthday. The oven mitts just might be my new obsession, they are so stinking cute! Actually my new obsession is felt food. Notice the cupcakes I made him. And then I asked Brad, the wonderful husband he is,to make a little tray for them to sit in. He bakes cupcakes all day long. And I get to eat them all day long. Much better than eating the real thing though! Oh ya, I get to eat strawberries too.
Guess I better get making some other felt food so I can have a bit healthier diet.

would you laugh at me...

2009-03-17T22:07:00.004-06:00

if you saw me running in this?

Probably not if my stomach or thighs looked like the models right. But honestly what do you think? I can't make up my mind. There are "boy shorts" attached to the skirt.
I used to do a lot of yoga, so I usually wear my yoga capris running. But they aren't the best to run in. And there is no way I am running in tight or short running shorts. Lulu lemon used to have a longer semi tight running short, but of course I couldn't find any last year when I was looking. Any other options I don't know about?

who comes up with these?

2009-03-16T15:34:00.010-06:00

Fifty Questions.

1. Do you like blue cheese? Not by itself, but yes on things like burgers and salads.

2. Have you ever smoked a cigarette? Nope. Can't stand the smell, same as most of you I'm sure!

3. Do you own a gun? No. But I have been gopher hunting a few times. And as strange as it sounds, shooting pumpkins is fun. And I would love to go to the shooting range with Sean and Val one time.

4. What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic? Vanilla. Christal - I have never eaten at sonic - go this summer when you are in Utah!

5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Not really. Especially because I am now a pushy nurse who knows what I want. But I have never had to go for something major.

6. What do you think of hot dogs? Okay, I can't lie. I love them. We always get them at Costco when we are there. I know it sounds so disgusting. Oh well. And remember the days the the 7-11 deal! I know you do Lindsay!

7. Favorite Christmas Song? Don't really have a favorite.

8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Water. Lots of cold water all day long.

9. Can you do push-ups? Sure. But just cause I can doesn't mean I do. I took a kickboxing class in college - like serious kickboxing taught by these two guys who fight all over the world. Of course I had no idea when I signed up it was for real! Anyway, we did MAJOR push ups in that class. And I must say I got really good over the semester.

10. What is your favorite movie? I really can't name one. It all depends - comedy, chick flick, action, drama. How can you pick just one. I love What a girl wants. Very cheesy I know. And I like Fever Pitch, Jimmy Fallon makes me laugh.

11. What’s your favorite piece of jewelry? I'm with Christal, my wedding ring. But I like big ear rings too cause it makes me look more put together than I really am most of the time!

12. Favorite hobby? Well we all know it's not sewing right... I really miss snowboarding. Being pregnant and breastfeeding all the time doesn't help with snowboarding. I like being lazy, does that count as a hobby? I like baking with Roman too.

13. Do you work with people who idolize you? Nope. But there are for sure nurses I work with who I idolize. In a good way. And of course Brad idolizes me!

14. Do you have ADD? Don't we all have a bit of ADD in us.

15. What's one trait that you hate about yourself? Impatience. And I worry all the time about everything.

16. What’s your middle name? Joyce.

17. Name three thoughts at this moment: What am I going to make for dinner today? What is left on the list for house renos. I give up on trying to have a shower today.

18. Name 3 things you bought yesterday: well since it was Sunday we'll go for Saturday. Fennegreek. Intrigued? Supposedly it helps increase milk supply. Finn goes crazy hungry every few weeks and it seems like there is not enough milk for him. Groceries. Gas.

19. Current worry right now? Selling the house.

21. Current hate right now? Waiting.

22. Favorite place to be? With family. Home on mat leave.

23. How did you bring in the New Year? I think we fell asleep before midnight.

24. Where would you like to go? Looking forward to time at the lake this summer.

25. Name three people who will complete this? I dunno. 3 people looking to avoid life for a few moments like me.

26. Whose answer do you want to read the most? No idea.

27. What color shirt are you wearing? White.

28. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? Never have, but I don't think I want to. I still have my winter flannel sheets on my bed.

29. Can you whistle? Sort of. I learned a few years ago. Very pathetic I know. Just a basic whistle, no catchy tunes or anything.

30. Favorite color? red and brown.

31. Would you be a pirate? no. What kind of crazy questions is this!

32. What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't sing in the shower. I day dream.

33. Favorite girl’s name? Ella. Hannah. Olivia.

34. Favorite boy’s name? Roman, Finn, and one that will not be named due to a name stealing friend. You know who you are. Max, Parker, Blake, I could go on. I have had lots of experience thinking about boys names!

35. What’s in your pocket right now? Nothing. I'm wearing pajamas - no big surprise there.

36. Last thing that made you laugh? Roman.

37. Best bed sheets as a child? Strawberry shortcake.

38. Worst injury you’ve ever had? Nothing comes to mind. Oh wait, I go kicked so hard in soccer my whole shin was bruised and swollen. I had to have a penrose drain put in it due to all the swelling and I have a loonie sized spot that is still numb.

39. What is your favorite snack? Toast.

40. Favorite thing to do on Sundays? Play games.

41. Who is your loudest friend? Lindsay or Jacklyn - but in a good way!

42. How many dogs do you have? None. My parents have the dog I brought home from school though.

43. Does someone have a crush on you? I sure hope not. It's just me and Bradley.

45. What is your favorite book? Blah, again how can you pick just one. I like easy fun reading. Like Harry Potter. Lam-o you say. Oh well.

46. What is your favorite candy? Mini chocolate bars at Halloween. Mini eggs at Easter. Hot tamales.

47. What is your favorite sports team? I have come to like the Lakers due to Brads addiction to them since the age of like 10. I like the Dallas Mavericks too. And then Phoenix Suns.

48. What song do you want played at your funeral? No idea. I don't think I will really care at that point. Off the top of my head I like the idea of I know that my Redeemer lives at a funeral.

49. What were you doing 12 AM last night? Just going to bed and wishing I had done so much earlier.

50. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up this morning? Why o why can't you sleep longer Finn...

Perfect timing, the dryer just finished. A few pictures and I'm off to fold laundry.

where to start...

2009-03-11T14:56:00.011-06:00

It has been almost a month since I posted last, seriously? It can't have been that long.
The list of things I need to do, and the list of things I want to do are staggering. Overwhelming me right now. So for now I will try to catch my brain up by posting about Roman's birthday.
Number "free".
Oh wait, I am heading out on a sock hunt with Ro and his "manaculars".
I'm back, the sock was found and replaced on one size 10 or 11 foot. Yes you read that right.
Back to 3. We has so much fun with 3. After the craziness of Christmas Brad mentioned my birthday. Roman then learned his birthday was soon after mine. And it took off from there. Is there some secret elf that comes around when I am not looking and puts ideas into kids heads? Cause that must have been what happened. All the sudden he was OBSESSED with birthdays. And he NEEDED a party o so badly. Well I am not a brave enough mom to have three and four year old boys in my tiny middle of renovation house. So we rented a pool. Yep, we are those parents. But it was so worth it this year. I asked what kind of party he wanted. Pirate. Okay then, what do we need at a pirate party. Pirate hats of course, oh silly me. Well pirate hats it is. And you know me, any chance to pull out the ol' sewing machine! So remember that felt crown I posted a bit ago, I turned that idea into a pirate hat. Some felt, iron on interfacing cut out as a skull, and some elastic. So easy and so fast. The dollar store provided eye patches and pirate swords - another must have according to Roman. I printed invitations and used a stamp pad instead of burning them. Brad commented how cool it would be if we had beer bottles to deliver them in. All the sudden I remembered my parents had old root beer bottles buried in their storage room for who knows what reason. So walla, message in a bottle. invitations.
I baked a sheet cake and decorated it like a treasure map. Brad made a little wooded pirate boat. But of course I forgot to take a picture of it! So use your imagination. I promise it was cute!
5 families joined us for the party. So many kids running around. It was crazy! But so much fun. Roman had a blast. He loved having so many little boys there. (I always end up dragging him along to play with my friends little girls). For days after the party he talked about all his friends that were BOYS!
Christal took this picture for us. Thanks Christal!
I was looking through a few of the pictures I did manage to get from the party and found this one. You can see the pirate hats I made. And most of the cake, including the smashed X (I threw something on it in the truck, Roman was mad at me for this one, how can we find the treasure now mom!) and the finger sized hole in the ocean. Don't worry, Roman got that piece!
And then I found this one which made me laugh - Look beside cute Masen and you will notice Roman grabbing Brad's butt! Not really sure what that is all about!
I have a really cute one of you Amelia, I'll be nice and not post a swimsuit picture on here!

Brad's mom came out on his actual birthday and we did presents and cake with her and my family. I need to get those pictures off my camera, so maybe tomorrow... or in a month knowing my posting record lately!
Funny that we all say things like that. When really we are the only ones who care. Well, that's not true, I love it when all of you have new posts. Do people like me as much as I like them? I'll tell myself yes, and get all my new pictures up soon!

Today I am...

2009-03-05T20:56:00.002-07:00

I liked Rhonda's post from today.
Today I am...
still in my pajamas from this morning, both kids too!

filling holes in baseboards and sanding them.

giving into the sugar craving and drinking a Dr. Pepper. It's been one of those days.

avoiding the treadmill staring at me right now.

looking forward to the time change this weekend and hoping it helps the kids sleep longer than the 7:00 wake up call I have had all week.

getting ready for Roman's pirate party this weekend, sewing a million little pirate hats for all the kiddos.

loving the new carpet in our basement.

totally and completely loving and appreciating my husband for all the work he has done to get the house ready to sell.

stressing out about the house selling once we actually get it listed.

Looking forward to the nice warm shower I will take as soon as I get off the computer and sand a few more baseboards.

What are you doing?

29 is officially postponed

2009-02-15T19:54:00.004-07:00

I love these two little stinkers.
But they are both pretty sick. So this year my birthday is officially postponed. We voted unanimously to postpone Valentines day as well. I am drained. It has been a long week. There is no end in sight to this rotten cold. Such is life as a parent, I know.
But just because I am postponing does not mean you have to postpone my birthday...
For example - my mom and dad made me a yummy early birthday dinner today.
What can you do you ask. Well, maybe you can leave a comment. Maybe I can get to 29 comments for my 29th birthday. I have my doubts. Come on, prove me wrong!
Everyone always does that post on their blog. Asking all those blog lurkers and stalkers to out themselves. We all lurk! I know I am quite guilty of it.
But I have been too scared to do that post. Scared that no one will actually comment. I have run into a few people who tell me they look at my blog all the time. I had no idea. But it was so nice to know that someone else was looking. I will admit I was flattered and quite happy about it! So I think I finally have the courage to do it. I am asking everyone who looks at my little blog to let me know you are out there. And if you still aren't up to leaving a comment email me. I just want to know you are out there!
Okay, this is me doing it. This is me hitting publish post. In just a minute... Okay for real this time... Don't let me down fellow bloggers!

blaaaaaaah

2009-02-11T11:20:00.004-07:00

Laundry, dishes, vacuuming, renovations, phone calls, organizing, cooking, toys, birthdays, church, friends, sewing, preschool, valentines day. I just can't keep up with it all lately. I can't even manage to get in a shower everyday. And exercising, what's that?
And now my whole house is sick. Again. So it will get even more behind.
Sick kids sucks.
I want so badly to make them feel better.
Roman told me this morning in such a sad voice "mom I don't want to be sick anymore".
His face is pale and his eyes are red. He looks like a zombie.
He was so sad he couldn't go to preschool today.
And Finn is just starting with the cough Roman has had for three days.
And my throat and ears hurt.
So what is worse that sick kids - being sick with sick kids.
And Brad is at work sick.
What makes me so mad is that I know exactly where this round of the horrific cold and flu came from. I know where it came from and when. And it shouldn't have come at all. We should not have had to be where the cold was. And it should not have come home to my house. And now my week sucks because of it.
But what can you do. Such is life.
At least these two kings make it worth it.
The king of crazy.
And the king of chub.
I love Roman. He wanted a "prown". So I made him one. And while I was making it he asked if I could make Finn one too. He's my baby and he needs a prown with me.
A few days ago Brad asked Romes if Finn was our baby. No dad, he is my baby.
I hope he always loves his brother this much.

shoes

2009-02-09T09:51:00.003-07:00

My favorite shoes for little guys are see kia run shoes. It's hard to find cute shoes for boys, but they have lots. And simple finds is giving a pair away!
check it out. Or don't. Then I will have a better chance of winning!

five months

2009-02-06T14:59:00.001-07:00

At five months Finn
- finally decided rolling over is a good thing. No interest whatsoever in rolling back off his tummy.
- likes to be in the jolly jumper, but doesn't jump at all. Just hangs there and chews on the front. So different from Roman who was a bouncing machine at this age.
- Likes to be in his bumbo.
- Loves loves loves to chew on anything.
- Is totally fascinated by his hands.
- Likes to smile at himself in the mirror.
- Blows little drool bubbles.
- Gives his best smiles, chit chat, and giggles to daddy.
- Likes mommy to put him to sleep.
- Is still being a stinker with wanting to eat 2 times a night.
- Sleeps in mommy and daddy's room. Hopefully only for a few more nights!
- Loves to watch Roman run around and play.
- Doesn't like to be left alone where he can't see people.
- Likes to be carried in a sling.
- Watches mommy make dinner from his bouncy chair and kicks up a storm in it.
- Travels well in the car and sleeps good in his car seat.
- Still doesn't have a defined nap schedule. Always a morning nap. Sometimes a good afternoon nap and no evening nap. Sometimes a short afternoon and a short evening nap.
- Finally goes to bed earlier in the evening, but only if mommy holds him. I watch a lot of tv from 9-10 with a sleeping baby!
- Has hair again, but not as red as his infant hair.
- Has blue green eyes, we will see which they choose.
- Likes a soother to fall asleep.
- Is finally over his cold from RSV.
- Likes to splash in the bath.
- Weighs 19 lbs. But feels like more. Doesn't help hold his weight at all!
- Wears 6-12 month clothes, but they are getting small.
- Enjoys constant hugs and kisses from his older brother.
- Isn't very tough at all.
- Is a pretty content little boy who doesn't cry much.
- Is such a sweetheart who melts my heart all the time.

diaper case

2009-01-27T11:33:00.008-07:00

I have had a few requests for my pattern for a diaper case. I tried a few tutorials but didn't love the end results. So I just made this one up. It works for me. And it is super easy to make. I really should be more stingy with this pattern - it is always what I make to give as a baby shower gift. Now all of you will be giving them as gifts too. I got dibs if we are going to the same baby shower!

Sorry I don't have pictures of each step right now, next time I make one I will add them in.
Here is a picture of one already made. (This one is pieced together, usually I do a solid piece)

The front is 11 x 8 inches. The back is 15 x 8 inches.
I do it those sizes because then I can use up scraps or fat quarters.
But if you have a long piece of material you can do 25 or 26 inches for length x 8 inches. You then would have no seam on the bottom of the case like you do when you use the smaller pieces.

You need a front and back piece for both the outside and the lining (or a long piece for each)
You could easily make the top from one fat quarter. I use muslin for the inside usually, but another fat quarter would work for the lining.

If you are using the short pieces sew the front together at the bottom (right sides together), and the lining together at the bottom (right sides together).
Press the seams.
Line up these seams of the lining and front piece, right sides together, and pin.
Sew all the way around with 1/4 inch seam allowance. Leave a spot for turning on the end of the shorter piece (the one that started out 11 inches). If you want a ribbon loop for a handle put it in while you are sewing it up here. I like to put it in by the end that is being left open for turning. Maybe 1/2 or 1 inch down from the end.
This is the yellow polka dot section on the above picture.
Clip corners, turn and press.
Top stitch across the side that you left open for turning. (1/8 seam allowance) This will be the top of the pouch part - the yellow polka dot section by the ribbon on my picture.
Now fold it on the bottom seam and press. Top stitch starting in one bottom corner, all the way around the top, and ending in the other bottom corner. (1/8 seam allowance) This will top stitch and close the pouch at the same time. The corners are a little thick here so just go slow.
You can sew on velcro to close it. I hate sewing velcro, so I use the little circle sticky back velcro. They usually stay stuck on, but not always. If you look closely at the pictures one of them is missing! I have recently started using snaps, which I love and will probably to all the time now.

Make sense?
Any questions?

I like this case because:
A: I don't have cheerios or goldfish crackers smashed in the diaper when I go to open it.
B: I also always have a diaper in my bag because whenever I leave the house I just check the case to make sure it is full and chuck it in my purse.
C: When I am changing a kid I use it as a pillow for their head.
D: The huggies wipes containers fit right in the case too. It will hold three size 5 diapers and a case and 4 size 3 diapers and case.

am I too late?

2009-01-25T19:35:00.007-07:00

1. What did you do in 2008 that you've never done before?
Bought a lot to build a house! Now I just have to sell this one.... any takers?

2. Did you keep your New Year's Resolutions and will you make more for next year?
Didn't make any last year. Never do. It would just be the same stuff year after year. Besides the classic eat better, exercise more resolutions I will say:
-meal planning. Not just cooking more or trying different things, but actually planning what to buy and what to cook when. It's been going good the last few weeks.
- 15 minute clean up. Every night after Roman is in bed before we crash on the couch. Me and Brad, 15 minute tidy up. (He doesn't know he is involved yet!) This way I will have a head start on getting going with cleaning the next day.
And here is a random one, I want to learn to make fondant cake icing. Any tips?

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Me. And just about every other person I know. There were 4 baby boys in the last 6 months in Brads family.

4. Did anyone close to you die?
Not close to me, but close to people that are close to me.
Lins and Dereks mom.
And Casey. Kinda throws you for a loop when it is a husband around my husbands age.
And a few kids at work. Won't get into that.

5. What places have you visited?
Does "visiting" Lethbridge a few times a week count?
Trips to Calgary to see Steph.
The usual summer trips to the Lake.
Pretty low key. Gunna stay that way too with the house building coming up.

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
More patience. More patience to be a better mom. I am working on it . I have moved from just yelling to yelling while telling myself in my head to stop yelling because I am being totally irrational. In my defense I was pregnant half this last year. Crazy emotionally pregnant with a full of life toddler. But I need to be a more patient mom in the heat of the moment.

7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched in your memory and why?
September 4th. My sweet little Finn came to cuddle with me.

8. What was your biggest achievement this year?
I worked enough to get another paid maternity leave. Being a working mom is hard.
Brad made a career change - sort of. Teaching has been put on the back burner so to speak. He still subs, but not a ton. He is all about the finishing carpentry business with his brother. Ironwood Millwork and Cabinetry. He owns a portion of the business. He LOVES his job. I love that he loves it. I love that I will have sweeeet finishing work in my new house. It's working out really well for us right now. We will see what the coming years bring. Teaching would be a good job too one day if it comes to that.

9. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nope. We had a good winter last year. Only one cold each.
This years not looking too good. Me and both kids are sick right now.

10. What was the best thing you bought?
A lot to build a house on.
A treadmill.
Lost of cute material. I heart material. Brad does not. He got a new tv.

11. Where did most of your money go?
We paid off our student line of credit and credit cards. And saved a big chunk o change to put towards building a house.
Also house renovations. Let's hope it pays off and helps our house sell.

12. What song will always remind you of 2008?
I think I am getting old. I don't listen to new music much. We got Sirius radio and I am a huge 90's alternative nerd.

13. What do you wish you would have done more of?
Besides the obvious answers... um... maybe thinking of creative things for Roman to do. And I need to find some boys his age for him to play with more. I'm not really a play date type of gal, but I need to get Roman around other kids more often. Anyone brave enough to have us over?

14. What do you wish you would have done less of?
Baking sugar cookies. And eating them.
I know everyone says less tv, less internet. Not me. All is done in moderation. Brad and I work hard all day and watch tv together at night. What's wrong with that.
I wish I would have done less worrying. But that will never happen.

15. What was your favorite TV program?
How I met your mother. It makes me laugh out loud by myself. Acording to Brad I smile the whole time I watch it.
Chuck. Samantha Who. 24. ANTM. Sadly the list goes on and on.

16. What was the best book you read this year?
Finished the twilight series. I liked The Host. Loved bend the rules sewing. Read more, but nothing really that great jumps out at me...

17. What was your favorite film of the year?
Don't remember the last time I went to a movie. Watched a lot at home, but can't think of one in particular that stands out. I liked Kung Fu Panda, until I had to watch it 1000 times with Roman.

18. What did you do on your birthday and how old were you?
No idea. 28. Turn 29 in less than a month.

19. What political issue stirred you the most?
I can't stand when people want to privitize health care in this province on beliefs that are unfounded or just plain wrong.
I did vote this year. Canadian election, not American.
I am also very annoyed with everyone jumping on the Obama bandwagon. I think I am the only person in blog land who isn't gaga over Obama. If you know the issues and his platform and you like him fine. But don't be all about Obama when you have no clue what he stands for. How can you be a hard core PC, would die before you vote Liberal, but then love Obama. I'm not a Bush lover by any means. That said I hope Obama can do some good and make me eat my words.

20. Who was the best new person you met?
Wow, what a great question to offend someone!
I am super glad Jill moved back to Raymond.
I like the girls I sew with.
I am glad Christal moved to my ward.
I am glad Crystal is in my preschool class.
Roconnected with lots of awesome people I already know this year.

links galore

2009-01-15T14:49:00.012-07:00

Well here it is Jill. The mother of all tutorial lists. I finally sat down to organize what I have been bookmarking for the past year. You probably have many of the same, but if not then here are lots to add. This should keep the sewing group going awhile!
Most are sewing related. A few are just crafty. I am positive I still have lost floating around on my computer. Maybe one day I will get to them all... big maybe.

O Baby
Bird mobile
Blanket with rick rack trim
Crib sheets
Hooded bath towel
Fifties bib
Toddler Bib
Basic bib
Baby bib
Diaper case
Nursing cover
Nursing cover
Boppy cover
Car seat strap covers
Stroller liner cushion
Fabric beach balls
Tag blanket
Tag blanket #2
Teething toy
Baby leg warmers
Cute patterns - but in French
Baby shoes
Felt baby shoes
Baby booties
Applique onsies
Mai Tai carrier
Baby sling
Scandi carrier

Kiddy Clothes
Kimono
Hooded towel
Hooded towel #2
Frog hood towel
Towel robe
Smocket
Itty bitty baby dress
Button shirt to toddler dress
Button shirt to toddler pants and dress
Sun dress
Shirred dress
Halter dress/shirt
Tie top tank
Peasant blouse
Sleeveless top
Smock/tank shirt
Ruffled skirt
Ruffled skirt #2
Lazy days skirt
Peasant skirt
Charm pack squares skirt
Twirly skirt
Drop waist twirly skirt
Simple baby pants
Easy kids pants
Easy kids pants
Shirt shorts
Japanese patterns click on the green button
Felt barrette covers
Headband
Heather Bailey headband

Softies
Black apple doll
Scotty dog
Mouse
Mouse
Jingle mouse
Wee wonderfuls bunny
Rabbit
Piggy bank
Lucky duck
Elephant
Itty bitty oddity
Rocket
Sock monster
Sock monkey
Sock elephant
Tag monster

Play With Me Stuff
Crown
Cape #1
Cape #2
Cape #3
Tepee
Pinwheel (paper)
Pinwheel (fabric)
Fabric dollhouse
Doll diaper
Color pencil and drawing pad holder
Memory game
Stuffed art
Quiet book
Paper dolls
Cardboard doll house
Glitter playdough
Fog bean bag

Yummy Felt Food
Cake
Cherries
Cupcake
Cupcake #2
Cupcake #3
Doughnut
Doughnut #2
Fortune cookies
Fortune cookies #2
Egg and orange slices
Whip cream dollop
Loaf of bread
Strawberry scroll
Sugar cookies
Fruit slices and ice cream treat
Little cake
Carrot
Pear
Strawberry
Apple

Aprons and Stuff
Stripe half apron
Dishtowel apron
Smock type apron
Tea towel apron
Easy half apron
Sweet treats apron
Ruffle half apron
Gathering apron
Oven mitt (adult and child)
Pot holders
Oven mitts
Dishtowel potholder
Apron patterns

Storage/Organize
Kidlet
Storage cubes
Storage basket
Bagsket
Wall organizer
Fabric bucket
Fabric basket
Crate cover
Cork board wall pocket
Car organizer
Car organizer
Organizer
Cereal box organizer
Sweet greetings portfolio
Binder cover
Note book cover
Etch a sketch laptop case
Fabric calendar
Passport sleeve
Yoga bag
Yoga mat wrap
Tote-able towel
Water bottle carrier
Oil cloth lunch sack
Lanyard
Catch all for jewelery and hair stuff

Bags Bags and more Bags
Hobo bag
Reversible shoulder bag
Angel bag
Pillow case bag
Reversible purse
A line bag
A line jordy bag
Boxy bag
Messenger bag
Little boxy pouch
Bias tape purse with zipper
Cosmetic bag
Box bag
Japanese coin purse
Pinch frame pouch
Wallet
Wallet with coin pocket
Kids beach bag
String backpack
Grip handle for bags
U handbag tutorials

Pillow-ish stuff
Button up shirt pillow
Pillow case
Portable cushions
Monogrammed pillow
General pillow
Bean bag chair

Decorative Type Stuff
3D fabric butterfly frame
Mercury glass candle holders
Embroidery hoop cork board
Fabric dots for walls
Leaf garland
Fall berry wreath
Ribbon wreath
Paper globes
Custom silhouettes
Fabric fridge frame

Sewing and Crafty Craft Related
Ironing board cover
Square pincushion
Pin cushion
Flower pincushion
Sewing bag
Sewing machine cover
Button top brads
Fabric flower

Randomness
Owl pennant
Eraser stamps
Growth chart
Bath mat
Fabric bead necklace
Fabric napkins
Julie cuff (crochet)
Covered hanger
Essential oil wheat sacks
Essential oil rice bag
Doorknob smelly sachet

Happy Holidays
Fabric pumpkins
Poseable skeleton
Stacking fabric Christmas trees
Snowflake ornaments
Bird advent calendar
How to for gift wrapping bows
Ginger bread house gift box
Felt stockings
More stockings
Quilled snowflakes
How to make a snowstorm
Snow globe soap

Quilts
My circle quilt
Scrappy Cabin
Flock of triangles quilt
Cathedral window quilt
Pinwheel quilt
Wonky log cabin quilt
Amy Butler quilts
Disappearing 9 patch

Sewing Tricks and Tips
Quilt binding
French seam
How to make a yo yo
Zipper pocket
Zipper pocket and slip pocket
Applique instructions
Cording
Piping
Installing a zipper

Not Your Grandma's Embroidery
French knots
Embroidery tutorial
Embroidery lesson
Embroidery organizer
Bear and bunny pattern
Free patterns

And if these aren't enough for you,
the big list of sewing blogs
and J Caroline Creative tutorials

Wow. I think about does it for now. Anyone got any good ones I missed?

someone pleeeeease help me!

2009-01-13T08:34:00.006-07:00

Finn is such a sweetheart. He is so mellow and content most of the time. He goes down for naps great. For the first few weeks of his life he woke to eat 2 times a night. Then he would wake once to eat around 5:00 and once again in the early morning for his soother. Life was good.
Then about three weeks ago he started waking up at 2:00 to eat. Not that great, but I could deal with it while we are renovating Roman's new room. (Finn is still in my bed)
Now he is waking more and more. The soother doesn't work. Rocking doesn't work. Last night he was up at 4:00 and never really slept much until I gave up at 7:30 and just got up. He's not teething yet. He's not sick. And technically he shouldn't be in a growth spurt. (although my kids are actually constantly in growth spurts!)
What do I do?
I am having a panic attack right now. Flashbacks of the first year and a half of Roman's life. He slept through the night (one feed) at about 3 months. At 4 months we moved from Edmonton to Raymond and had to stay with my parents for 2 months until we took possession of our house. He stopped sleeping through the night when we moved. I don't know if it was the move, or coming back into our room that did it. So every time he woke up I fed him. I couldn't let him cry or he woke up the whole house. Then started the year of him sleeping in our bed at some point every night. I didn't get any sleep until he was about a year and a half old.
I can't do that again. I know sleepless night are all part of being a mom. But I can't do it. I can't do it when I have a baby who has been such a good sleeper until now. It's just not fair!
I have a friend who's kids sleep in her bed until 6, 7, or 8 months and then they transfer seamlessly to their own bed. So that is what I thought I would try with Finn. Not working anymore. Roman's room is almost done. If we work hard we might be able to get it done in a week and a half. But then what? Finn has his own room but he isn't sleeping!
I have another friend who went to a specialist - not sure what the "specialists" training is. She was told when a baby reaches a certain weight, not age, they can physically go for 11 hours without eating. And you should let them cry at night. So she did this with her 4 month old and it worked. Not sure how long it took.
But I think I may be there. Be that desperate to let a 4 month old - who is stuck in one position because he is too content to bother learning to roll over, who never really cries but on the odd occasion he does it is a wailing shrieking desperate cry - cry thought the night for a week or so on the hope that he will learn to sleep. Be that desperate if that doesn't work to possibly get a 1 1/2 hour $200 phone consultation with this specialist to try to get some help.
Is that crazy?
We are hoping to sell our house this spring. We will be living with my parents while we build a house. I really really need him sleeping by then.
What do I do?

some christmas pictures

2009-01-07T09:41:00.011-07:00

I sorta got caught up in Christmas and didn't take very many pictures. And of the ones I did take not too many turned out due to a tiny bit of excitement going on! And I completely forgot to take my camera when we got together with Brad's family. But here are a few of the pictures I did get.
Roman driving the worlds longest train.
Loving the bowling set from Auntie Paige.
"Playing" rock band with the extra guitar - and loving it.
We played a lot of rock band. And what is rock band without costumes. Thanks to Romans Christmas pile we had a cape, underwear, and suspenders from his tool belt kit. I think I wore those pajamas for four days in a row. Oh wait, I did put on Jeans and a hoodie to go to town on boxing day, then it was right back into the pajamas.
Paige's sweet rocker moves
We found one of the old school fisher price doctor kits for a Christmas present. Monkey is always a good patient. He likes to give us all shots to feel better. Must get it from his mom. I love giving people shots. And I'm good at it to, so I have been told. I don't want to brag or anything... but it is my blog after all.
I think my kids will be 12 and still have those chubby kissable cheeks!

good thing val took pictures...

2009-01-05T13:21:00.004-07:00

Val sent me pictures of the quilt I made them for Christmas and the girlie sock monkeys. Aren't the cute!

sewing and snowing

2009-01-02T10:32:00.006-07:00

We have had a crazy amount of snow this past month and with it some crazy cold weather. So why not stay inside and sew! I did a lot of sewing for Christmas this year. And then I did a lot of not taking pictures of what I made. Could be due to the fact that I was sewing right up to the last minute.
So here's the rundown on the handmade gifts this year.
A quilt for my b and s in law. They went to Hawaii earlier this year and brought me back a pack of quilting squares in Hawaiian prints. We had their name so I thought it the perfect opportunity to as Brad said "Indian gift" the fabric back to them. I think it turned out cute and I hope they like it. No picture. Also no picture of the sock monkeys I made for their 2 girls. This is the kicker. Of all the gifts I made I wish I had a picture of them. Val if you are reading do you have a picture you could send me of the little monkey girls? I made brown monkeys. Then sewed little skirts complete with a hole for the tail to come through. A bow in their hair and pink embroidered lips finished them off. Pretty stinking cute if I do say so myself.
Roman got a new cape. And monkey got a matching one. It was high time for a cape, Finn's blankets just weren't cutting it anymore. Here they are taking a break from being super.
My moms present was back ordered and wouldn't come until after Christmas, so I made her this little Scottie dog. And of course he needed a cape to keep him warm. My mom has always loved Scottie dogs so I just about died when I saw this pattern. Easy breezy to make. Try one.
I made an Emmeline apron for my mother in law and for my friend Jill. Of course no pictures.
I made a Christmas apron like the one I had a picture of a few posts back for my friends Stephanie and Crystal. But no pics of them either.
I made a cute little pen roll (like the crayon roll) for my sis to keep colored pens in and two little cases for note cards for studying. No pictures.

And I made crayon rolls. Oh did I make crayon rolls. I lost count. But I think it was at least 20. Yep you read that right 20 crayon rolls in the month of December. They are so easy. And so much fun to give.
Everyone bakes at Christmas. So I decided to give out crayon rolls with a few Christmas treats
instead of tons and tons of baked treats. Easy stocking stuffer. I hate thinking of things for stocking stuffers. And this is how we handed out our little goodies this year. Empty paint cans. Brad thought I was being very weird. Oh well. My friends like it! They are super useful for keeping toys or whatever in. Roman squashed the cute tin buckets I had for toys, but the paint cans are still going strong.
So there you have it. 1 quilt, 2 sock monkeys, 2 capes, 4 aprons, 1 Scottie dog, 1 study kit, and 20 crayon rolls.

And Christmas was great. Lots of fun, lots of food, lots of games, lots of friends and family. Roman played with everything he got at some point during the day. He loved it but I think he was a bit overwhelmed. He left 2 presents unopened and came back to them a few hours later! I guess that is a hint to me that next year I can do a little less right!

hello cupcake.

2008-12-31T10:47:00.004-07:00

For you Paige.
Here are my cooleo cupcakes that you missed out on.
I finally got the book Hello Cupcake from the library. All of the cupcakes looked like quite a bit of work, but some were pretty cute. It had some interesting stuff in it too. Like these cupcakes that I made for Sunday dinner at my parents house a month or so ago.

Spaghetti and meatballs
TV dinner - complete with a chicken drumstick, peas and carrots, mashed potatoes and a cupcake for desert.
Corn on the cob. The perfect side for the tv dinner.

romanisms

2008-12-16T11:01:00.003-07:00

Of course everyone thinks their kid is hilarious, and I am no exception. But do other people find the same things funny? Here are some of the funny things Roman has said recently. You be the judge.

Brad - (after Rome was running around all crazy like) - you are all sweaty!
Roman - I'm not sweaty dad, I'm handsome.

Don't say no dad, say yes!

me - (while he is banging on his drum with all he's got) - why are you being so loud?
Roman - it's my job.

While laying on the floor coloring - Hey dad, what's breast milk? I'm drawing breast milk.

For about a month when we asked him to do something he would say "no problemo", pronounced prob-lee-mo
Or he would say "I betcha" (instead of you betcha)

That same month he said "um" before absolutely everything. Um mom... Um dad... Um I need milk... Um where is my monkey... You get the picture. Funny thing is that when he did this we noticed I say it all the time too!

While watching Diego
Diego - can you help us?
Roman - No, I'm drinking my milk.

Daddy you go to bed, I stay up.

While shopping one day
Roman - mommy that lady's bum is big.
Me - Roman shhh!
Roman - in his super loud whisper - but mom it is big.
At least he listened when I said shhh.

After Halloween - can I please have a treat, the candy people gave me.

Me - Roman get back here so I can put your sock on.
Roman - Sorry mama, I need to do some hard work, I don't want to be late for hard work.

Roman was at my parent's house when my mom was decorating for Christmas.
Roman - grandmas having a party
me - what?
Roman - grandma is having a party with Christmas.

Brad - Roman are you being goofy?
Roman - No dad, I'm Roman Henry Davis.

He found my stethoscope the other day so I let him play with it. He walked over to Finn and said, let's have a listen shall we.

Here is my funny little guy. We found an old film camera. He loves it. Walks around the house asking everyone to say cheese.

we have a winner

2008-12-10T00:03:00.003-07:00

Thanks for all the donations to Mia and her family!

According to random.org we have a winner in the baby Mia quilt giveaway...

The winner of the quilt is the Eggett family. (Her blog is private, so I can't link you there). But I am happy to say that she - unlike me - actually knows baby Mia. So hopefully she can think of Mia whenever she looks at her new quilt!

The winner of the Baby Bjorn cover is Hannah.

The winner of the crayon roll is Nicole.

175 comments on the post. Hopefully we were able to do some good for little Mia - who is finally at home with her family! Hoping they have a great Christmas together!

quilt giveaway

2008-11-29T22:03:00.010-07:00

Stephanie's good friend and his wife had their 3rd baby almost 4 months ago. Mia. She was born with a severe heart defect and waited for months on the heart transplant list. I used to work as a nurse in a Pediatric Cardiology unit. I helped care for babies like Mia and their families. Each new day and every little change in the baby's condition brings a roller coaster of emotions. The physical and emotional tole it takes on families is overwhelming.

When my own children are sick I feel so helpless and lost when I can't make them feel better. But they do get better. The are healthy kids. I can't even begin to imagine the emotions Mia's family is going through at this time with her heart struggles. My heart aches for her mom. And on top of all this their insurance will not cover all the expensive surgeries and needed health care.

But baby Mia finally got her heart! Here is cute Mia when her mom finally got to hold her after the transplant surgery. Imagine not being able to hold your little baby for so long.
So it's a happy quilt giveaway! But she still has a long road of recovery ahead of her. And the medical bills and medication costs will keep piling up. So if you can we would love you to help her family.

A recent quilt giveaway got 2100 entries. Could you imagine if everyone who entered donated a dollar? It could be such a blessing for little Mia. I don't know that we will be able to get those kind of numbers but anything will help.

So here it is, my quilt to help baby Mia. The quilt measures 38x45 inches. Perfect to cuddle up with as a lap quilt or if you can stand to give it up, use as a crib quilt.

How to enter:
Leave a comment after this post to be entered in the quilt giveaway. Make sure you leave a contact email if your comment does not link to your blog.
Post the baby Mia quilt give away button on your blog or facebook account to get 5 more entries. (html code for button at bottom of post)
Email all your friends and tell them about the giveaway and get 5 more entries.
Donate to the help baby Mia fund and get 15 more entries.
(Don't forget to tell what you have done when you comment so you will get all your entries!)

Click here to go to the Help Baby Mia blog. You can then click on the sidebar at the top right to donate through paypal.

And because we love you and your help in donating and spreading the word we have two more items to give away to a lucky second and third place winner!

Baby Bjorn cover. Made and donated by my friend Melissa. (she sells them here!) Opposite side is brown, shows when top of cover is flipped over to carry forward facing baby.
Crayon roll. (If you need one for a boy I can do that instead)

The give away ends at midnight on December 9th.

One more thing - thanks for hanging in for the long post! I will have the quilt pattern ready to sell after the contest closes. Email me at bwrdavis@telus.net if you are interested in purchasing a pattern.

Code for quilt give away button - copy and paste html code to your sidebar in the layout section of blogger.

crafty christmas

2008-11-29T20:37:00.007-07:00

Whipped this up the other day.
Just kinda made up the pattern based on how much material I had.
Found the pattern for the little tied pocket here.
Now I am all ready to start the Christmas goodies!

And because I think I have a cute little guy, here is a picture of Finn all dressed up for church last week. Just try to tell me he isn't adorable!

simple finds

2008-11-26T09:42:00.004-07:00

Love the blog Simple Finds.
I actually know two people who have won give aways.
Here are two more great giveaways to check out.
Wall Candy
Layers dress

Check em out!

another one! check it out for the chance to win a sleepy wrap baby carrier.
I could so use this - Finn is too long to fit comfortably in my other type of wrap!

kiddos

2008-11-21T11:55:00.014-07:00

Took a few pictures of the kiddos today. I have been feeling guilty that we have ten times more pictures of Roman as a baby than Finn. Happens with every second child I am told.

necessity is the mother of invention

2008-11-14T11:06:00.008-07:00

I am on the enrichment committee at church. We are having super Saturday tomorrow and I am supposed to bring a Christmas treat.
So candy cane kisses and leftover cookie dough
became this
And they actually taste really good!

The left over cookie dough came from this.
Roman's I finally stayed in nursery the whole time all by myself celebration cookies! It only took a year, but he finally stayed. He wasn't excited about going, and it took a great deal of talking into, and he took Monkey with him, but he did it. I asked him what he wanted to do to celebrate and he said make cookies. So make cookies we did. Good way to get rid of Halloween candy too. We'll soon see if he can make it two in a row...
And in other cooking news, I made stuffing from the crock pot blog for dinner last night. It was so good! I'm eating leftovers for lunch as we speak. Cooked a ham in my other crock pot. You just may have to put up with my love of this blog and her recipes for awhile. And if you haven't checked it out you seriously need to!

I heart my crock pot

2008-11-11T16:52:00.003-07:00

Or should I say pots, I have three. Three different sizes of course.
I came across an interesting blog awhile ago but have never explored it much. This girl decided to cook with her crock pot every day in 2008. 365 days of using a crock pot.
After telling some friends about the blog yesterday I was intrigued to check it out. I couldn't stop looking back at all her recipes. I now have a huge word document of recipes to try!
And the best part, her last post was about cooking a turkey breast in the crock pot!
Turkey breast has go to be my favorite food. Well turkey buns actaully. Warmed up with cheese. Cheese you say, I know it sounds ridiculous. But don't knock it till you try it! I love turkey buns so much I have given up all together on eating turkey on my plate. I go straight for the turkey buns. I even go so far as to bring my own buns and cheese to family events where turkey will be served. I think it drives my family and Brad's family crazy.
So check out the awesome crock pot blog! And if you have any awesome crock pot recipes send em my way!

Oh my!

2008-11-06T11:34:00.003-07:00

It's an Amy Butler Christmas!
Usually I am a stickler for the rules - the American rules that is. Christmas does not take center stage until Thanksgiving is over. We will be celebrating American Thanksgiving, but I think I am all about Christmas after seeing Amy Butler's new free patterns! Check em out. I love the felt pillow, although white would never last around my house. And the felt stockings and tree skirt. Looks like I am in the market for some felt to combine with my love of Amy Butler and polka dots! She also has those red polka dots that would look just as great as the green!
Kid in a candy store moment for me, just go with it!
In other news, my quilt for the help baby Mia give away is well on it's way. Amy Butler fabric of course! And there will be some other cool stuff we are giving away too. Keep checking back!

I'm too tired to think of a title. That is why I am blogging instead of cleaning my house.

2008-11-05T15:25:00.009-07:00

Make sure you check out the link on my sidebar, for Stephanie's quilt give away. And check back soon, I am working on my quilt for a give away.

In the meantime, here are some pictures of a few things I made recently.
I actually made this black apple doll before Finn was born, but never got around to taking a picture of it. Silly I know, two boys and I am making a doll. She is all for me. Get the pattern here. I added shoes, pigtails, sleeves, and a collar. My mom did the face for me. If I made another one I would make the limbs a bit bigger. The seam allowance is so tiny. I am afraid the limbs would fall apart if a little girl played with it much. I think I would try tracing the pattern onto my fabric, sewing on the line I traced, and then cutting out so I could leave a big seam allowance. Make sense?

I had the pieces for this pillow cut way before Finn was born, but couldn't finish it until we named him. Brad was kind enough to take him for a bit a few days after we came home from the hospital so I could finish it. It was silly, but it was nagging at me, I just had to finish it and couldn't wait any longer!
The front.
The back.
Got the pattern and idea here. Just drew my own letter cause the ones they had were much to frilly and girly for little Finn.

I am dying to attempt this cute Molly Monkey pattern. Sadly it will have to wait until after Christmas at least. Too many thing on the list to sew for Christmas.

halloween fun

2008-11-03T08:00:00.008-07:00

Here is my little monkey. He REALLY didn't want to hold still for pictures. So I did what any good mom would do, told him no trick or treating if he didn't let me take a few pictures.
He had a lot of fun. He kept saying "happy tal-ween" to everyone we passed. And he did a sweet monkey dance complete with sound effects for anyone who asked.
And little Finn was a polar bear - a polar bear because his bunting suit has ears. He actually fell asleep just as we were leaving, so my mom came out with me and Roman and Brad and Finn stayed home. But he did have a cute little pumpkin hat he wore around all day. Here he is with it on for a Halloween party we went to a few weeks ago.
After going all out as the incredibles for our Halloween party I didn't get around to getting cool costumes for me and Brad to wear tick or treating. This is how creative I was - a nurse and a finishing carpenter. Not at all lifelike or anything!
There were tons of parents dressed up this year. Must have been because the weather was so nice. Lins and Derek had some good costumes, and Ali and James were adorable. I loved James' costume because my mom made a skeleton costume for us when we were little - just painted bones onto black clothes. I am sure Lins will put up pictures soon if she hasn't already.
And I LOVED the Williams family's costumes! Scroll to the bottom to see the whole family.

Instead of costumes I made the cupcake pops I talked about in an earlier post. Here is the link to make them. They were fun to make, but I don't love how they taste. They are okay but I would rather waste the calories on something else! But a few of the people around town that I took some to loved them. So at least I know it was just me and that they turned out good this time. If you going to make them try styrofoam to poke the sticks into while they dry, it worked like a dream. And it would be a cute way to display them at a party or something.

One last picture. Here is what Roman tricked his dad into letting him have for breakfast the day after Halloween. Maybe that's why it is trick or treat!

I caught martha disease.

2008-10-28T08:56:00.014-06:00

We had a little Halloween party on the weekend. And I caught Martha Stewart disease. I went a little overboard with the decorating of my tables and food, complete with little tags for each food item with silly Halloween style names. But I love Halloween! Here are some pictures so you can see what a big dork I am. Some of the food we had: witches brew soup (taco soup), bones (bread sticks with knots in the ends), mummy fingers (pigs in a blanket), and bat wings ( BBQ chicken wings).

Eye balls, compliments of the Martha Stewart Halloween spectacular I happened to see one night while switching through channels. Radishes and olives. They looked cooler in real life.
Severed hand punch, also looked cooler in read life.
Roman caught a little of the Martha disease too - he wanted to help decorate and put the little pumpkins up on the canisters all by himself. He was so proud of himself and kept admiring them all night.
The good stuff! Halloween popcorn from Kernels. Love this stuff. Mini chocolate cupcakes and spider cupcakes. Sugar cookies. Caramel apples. And tiger ice cream.
Here is a closeup of the caramel apples.
And the sugar cookies. I love the Wilton color flow icing mix. Fun to decorate with, but it doesn't taste as good as butter cream icing.
See, I told you I caught Martha Stewart disease. Don't worry it was short lived, I am back to living in my pajamas in a messy house and eating leftovers for dinner.

And because I love Halloween I guess I can add one more picture. I can't believe I am going to put up a picture of my seven week post baby haven't gotten on the treadmill yet can't stop eating Halloween candy legs in tight red spandex. But here you go. Our family Halloween costume. Roman had the pjs - they are a few sizes too small now, but we squished him in them anyway. My husband is the best husband in the whole entire world for getting into red tights and stuffing his belly for me! Thanks Brad!

bake to baking

2008-10-15T14:19:00.008-06:00

I was about to say earlier this month, but it was actually last month - where does time go? I made a new york key cheesecake with key lime sour cream topping for my sisters birthday. I love any excuse to use my shinny red springform pan! I know the whipped cream little dots look a bit silly, I was in a hurry. But it was very yummy if I do say so myself.
And speaking of cheesecake, here is a recipe I would love to try. Strawberry cheesecake.

For Canadian Thanksgiving I made 2 pumpkin cheesecakes. One for each family dinner. I have to thank my aunt Shannon for this recipe. In our family it is known as pumpkin dessert - but for those who have no idea what pumpkin desert is, pumpkin cheesecake is the best way to describe it. Brad hates pumpkin anything so I made him his favorite, banana cream pie. I don't absolutely love pumpkin, but fall isn't fall without pumpkin dessert.
The other day I mixed up a big batch of sugar cookies and today I cut them out and baked them. Sugar cookies are my all time favorite. They are waiting in the freezer until Halloween gets closer and they can get decorated. So no pictures yet, but I will share the recipe. Got this one from Lindsay and it has become my number one sugar cookies recipe. It is very yummy. And it makes a pretty small batch - but you can easily double it too. Just make sure you don't cook them too long. Nothing is worse than a burnt sugar cookie!

Bake @350 F for 6-8 minutes. I do 6 min in my oven.
2/3 cup shortening
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
4 tsp milk
1 3/4 cups flour

Cream shortening and sugar. Add egg, beat until light and fluffy. Add vanilla. Mix dry ingredients and add along with milk.
Chill one hour. Roll and cut. Bake. Enjoy.

I just add everything but flour in my kitchen aid and mix it. Then when Roman hears it and comes running to help there is only the flour left to add. He still gets to help, but less mess for me. And the cookies turn out just fine.

Way back in the spring a friend of mine was watching Martha Stewart and was introduced to this little gem of a blog. Bakerella. Gem. Does anyone remember watching Jem and her Hologram band? Okay, back to the topic at hand... Bakerella and her super cool cupcake pops.
So Jen and I made some. With vanilla cake and icing. Turned out not too bad. But I would seriously love to learn how Bakerella gets hers to look so good and so smooth. Then I tried to make some myself with the only cake mix I had on hand. Cherry chip. Disgusting. So I gave up and just coveted that Bakerella coud make hers taste so good. But then October came around. And I thought little orange pumpkin pops would be so cute. Then I saw Bakerella's Halloween pops. And I was exctied. Then I remebered my huge failure. And I said no way. But then my sis in law Rhonda and her sis in law Lindsay made some. Chocolate with cream cheese icing. And apparently they were pretty dang good. So perphaps I can be tempted to try again. We will see. In the meantime check Bakerella out, make your own cupcake pops and tell me what you think, and what worked and what didn't! She has some dang good cupcake recipes on her blog too.

I'll leave you with one last cake.
Here is the diaper cake I made for my cousin's wife's shower and their cute little girl Brihanna. I think that is how they spell it. She was born the same day as Finn. Who by the way is 6 weeks tomorrow!
He was weighed and measured today. 23 1/2 inches long and 11 lbs 10 oz. So basically he grew 2 1/2 inches and gained 4 lbs. Which doesn't seem like a lot to me. But I have retired all his 0-3 month pjs. We think he is longer than Roman was at the same age. Yippie for me and my gigantic children. If I walk with a hunch back when I am old it will be from lugging my children around. But they are so cute so Iguess it will be worth it!

thankful for...

2008-10-09T10:30:00.001-06:00

Thankful for a healthy baby boy. Thankful his cold is finally gone. Thankful he is taking a great nap right now!
Thankful these little brothers love each other so much already. Roman likes to share his toys with Finn while I am not looking.
Thankful for the priesthood in my home. For an amazing husband who honors me, his kids, and his priesthood. And for being able to have my amazing husband bless this cute baby boy.
We blessed Finn a little over a week ago. (I'm a little slow at getting a post up!)
Thankful for fun family times at the zoo. And fun times shopping with Val and Kate instead of Brad and Roman - much more fun to go with the girls!
Of course I wasn't thinking and didn't get pictures of Roman with his cousins at the zoo. The cousins he is so excited to see all the time. We are thankful for them too. And great aunts and uncles for out kids. Here is Brad and Finn and uncle Bryan and Jonas. Jonas was born 2 weeks before Finn. Their sister Rhonda had Eli about 2 months before. And brother Bob will add the fourth boy this year around Christmas time. I am sure these 4 little guys will be driving us crazy in a few years when the family is all together!
Thankful my great husband didn't get mad at me when I dropped the camera at the zoo and broke the lens. Thankful he is buying me a new lens.

Thankful for great friends. Friends who even though we don't see each other hardly at all anymore are still great friends. Like Andrea. She is one of the most generous, genuine, happy people I know. And I am not just saying that because she sent me the most adorable baby gift for Finn! But that brings me to my next thankful, thankful that if you look hard you can find adorable clothes for little boys among the piles and piles of cute girl clothes out there. Like these cute boots and hat, with matching pants and shirt that I got in the mail yesterday from Andrea.
(Silly to add a thankful for baby clothes I know, but I just love baby clothes!)

Thankful for General Conference. To hear such inspired men teach us. Thankful for our prophet. Thankful the talks can be found on the internet and in the Ensign - a must have with Roman running around the house yelling and banging toys during every session.

Thankful that I am finally doing one thing right! There have been a few talks over the last few conferences about focusing on your children, leaving the housework and just enjoying them. I am glad to say this has always been the way I do things. But my mom may say it is because I am lazy! Still at least I am on the right track somewhere.

Thankful that blogger lets me save posts so I can come back to them since I started this post on Monday and am finally done it on Thursday!

my little finn

2008-09-21T16:01:00.011-06:00

It's been just over 2 weeks since Finn was born. It's been a fun 2 weeks. He is such a sweet little guy. I don't want to jinx myself, but so far he has been a pretty great sleeper. I can say this without feeling bad because Roman was NOT a good sleeper. I mean he is no Lily or Laken, sleeping through the night since they were born. But I only have to feed him one or two times during the night. And he naps by himself! Roman had to be held all the time to sleep. Hopefully it continues. What I would like not to continue is the spitting up. Well actually is it not so much spitting up, more like drenching me and himself in puke. A whole feed comes up sometimes. And sometimes he pukes so much it comes out his nose. And totally at random. Sometimes when he is asleep, sometimes right after he eats, sometimes while he is eating, and sometimes awhile after he has eaten. He seems to have a really bad gag reflex. And he is super gasey. Both of which appear to contribute to the pukiness. But what can you do. He is happy and is gaining weight. So we will just have to hope he grows out of it sooner than later.
Roman is more out of control than ever, but he is two and a half, so no big suprise there. But he LOVES his baby. Baby sinn, no F's for Roman. He kisses Finn all day long. And he shares all his most favorite toys with his baby. I'm so glad he loves him so much already.
I have had a few emails from people who will not be named asking, well actually more like demanding more details. So here goes...

I had a doctor's appointment on Thursday September 4th - my due date. My doctor asked me if I wanted to be induced that evening. He was on call all night, and he wasn't sure when he could schedule me for an induction after that. I kinda wanted to wait and see if the baby would come on his own, but the idea of maybe having to go a week overdue was too much. So in to the hospital we went. I had been having contractions all afternoon, slowly getting stronger, but not too bad. I was dilated to a 3. I asked for the epidural. The epidural cart was all set up and ready to go. Dr. Browne broke my water at 8:30. Immediately the contractions got stronger and stronger. He ordered the pitocin drip. The nurse and I tried to talk him out of it. No go. He went to help with a c-section and said he would bring the anaesthesiologist back with him. They offered me morphine. Thinking like a patient and not a nurse I said okay - you will see why that was a bad idea in a moment. Of course it did nothing. Things went okay for awhile, contractions got stronger and stronger. But I just kept thinking about that epidural. Then contractions got really bad. C-section wasn't over yet. Nurse was really nice, but kept making stupid comments about how surprisingly hard my contractions actually were. You think??? They got even worse. But because I had the stupid drip I had to be in bed with the monitor on. All I wanted to do was get out of bed and try to move around to help with the pain. I couldn't have the nitrous gas because I had had morphine. I was at a 7, then instantly to a 10. Doctor came running in apologizing, he didn't think I would go that fast. I had to start pushing. I cried like a 2 year old. I couldn't breath, it felt like someone was sitting on my chest. So then I panicked. Two nurses were trying and trying to help me catch my breath and pay attention to push. And I couldn't control the words coming out of my mouth. I am sure it was hilarious to watch! I said the classic I can't do this! And then the ever popular I want drugs. All the while knowing what I was saying was ridiculous. Not sure how long I pushed, somewhere around 5 minutes? Through about 3 contractions. An hour and 36 minutes after breaking my water little Finn was born. 10:06 pm. It was all such a blur, and still kinda is when I try to think about it. I suppose that is a good thing!
It wasn't as euphoric as Roman's birth. It was harder to enjoy. It was more like work. When the nurse asked if I wanted him I actually said they could put him under the warmer before I held him. I was so exhausted. My body was in total shock. In a way I felt a bit cheated.
But it was a safe smooth labour. I was fine and he was fine. Brad was there to help me. I had that amazing feeling when they handed Finn to me. And I got to cry - for some reason I love to cry when I hold my baby for the first time, such a good release. So all things considered or course it was a great experience.

Kudos to those of you who do it without and epidural. But I had one with Roman. It was heaven. And I had my heart set on one with Finn. I mean sure, now that it is over and I did it I know I could do it again, but I just don't see the point when I could have the drugs!

So here we are over two weeks later. And I am totally loving being the mommy to my two little boys. And because no post is complete without pictures, here are a few.

baby baby

2008-09-09T20:51:00.006-06:00

Finn Stewart Davis
Born Thursday September 4th at 10:06 pm
7 lbs 11 oz, 20 7/8 inches

My three boys

Roman meeting Finn - and loving him.

My gorgeous little boy

More info and pictures to come when I can bring myself to put him down and Roman has had enough mommy time.

still waiting...

2008-09-01T11:41:00.006-06:00

No baby yet. I had strong contractions all day on Thursday, but nothing came of it. I can think of 6 people who have had babies before their due date this summer, 3 of them due after me! What can I say, I guess I like my babies overcooked. But I'm actually feeling pretty good, considering my due date is Thursday. And I am now hoping he will not make an appearance until Wednesday at the earliest. My parents are moving my little sis to Edmonton today and tomorrow, and they are the best choice to watch Roman while we are at the hospital. I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow, and I think he will set an induction date in case I go over. So we will wait and see, not much else to do right.
So can you guess what I have been doing while not having a baby? In my defense, Brad has been working days and going back to work after Roman is in bed every evening for the past week and a half. So I need to keep myself entertained somehow. I considered not posting pictures, because after Lindsay's last comment I think I may give her a heart attack. But here is what I have been sewing.
Tote bags for my mom. She wanted something to use at church. Tons of patterns and tutorials floating around I am sure, but I just kinda made up the size as I went along.
Crayon rolls. Have been wanting to make one of these forever but just never got around to it. I am still on the enrichment committee at church and we are planning for a Super Saturday. This is one idea I had that we might make, so I needed samples. They were so easy! Would this interest anyone for a Super Saturday project? Started with this tutorial, and added length on one of them to fit more crayons.

And last but not least, some new friends for the baby's room.
I got the book Sock and Glove awhile ago with a Chapters gift card I had. I feel in love with the elephant pattern. I am even more in love with him now that I made one. Then I just kinda made up the giraffe and the lion. Not so sure about the lion, but Roman seems to like him. Roman says I need to make baby a monkey now so baby won't take his monkey. So I guess I'll get right on that!

warning picture overload

2008-08-29T13:02:00.017-06:00

So I am finally getting around to posting pictures from the lake this summer. Sorry it is so many. Wait what do I care, look at them or don't! As usual we had so much fun. And sleeping in a tent 7 months pregnant was actually quite comfortable. We had a feather bed and memory foam and you name it for a bed! Roman loved to be outside and couldn't get enough of camping. But can you really call it camping when grandma and grandpa have a huge air conditioned trailer?

First tube ride. I was lucky to find a life jacket that would do up over my belly! He loved it, or so he said. You would never know it from the serious look on his face the whole time. But he kept saying go more, go more.
Riding in the boat - every morning we would watch grandma ski then go back to the fire to get warm. Monkey was not allowed in the boat without his life jacket, just like Ro. One of those things that fits on a pop can, he was in heaven at the idea of a life jacket for monkey.
Lounging at the trailer with some milk.
Playing at the beach.
Not impressed when rocks got on things, including himself. He would dig with a shovel for a minute and then realize it had rocks all over it. Then would have to run to the lake to clean it off. And if anyone else was digging he would take their shovel and clean it too. Strange kid.
Thinks he is so funny - which of course he is - no feet mom!
Swimming with "toot toot race tar". Not sure where that name came from, but he loved the car. Swimming with froggy. Best life jacket in the world! He could actually move his arms when he was on the beach playing and it didn't restrict him in the water at all like a normal life jacket did. He swam all over in it.
He liked to swim "waaaaay deep" with daddy.
Annual first of July celebration at the Alberta visitors center in Glacier. Free hot dogs and pop and cotton candy. What more could you ask for? First taste of marshmallows. I didn't really realize he has made it his whole life without tasting one. And of course he loved it. Pure sugar, what kid wouldn't. Loved to roast them, but wouldn't taste a roasted one.

Caught using grandma's chair as a trampoline, and trying to act cute so as not to get in trouble. But he has grandma and grandpa wrapped around his chubby sticky little fingers. He gets what he wants when he is at the lake!

Today is a sad day at our house

2008-08-25T21:17:00.008-06:00

Sad because I am still pregnant. Hit that point a few days ago. I am ready to be done. The shooting nerve pain, the back pain, the sleepless nights, the no energy days, the bleeding stretch marks, and the humongous belly are just too much right now.

Sad because the 2 year old attention getting antics are in full swing. Today marks the first day he took his diaper off and peed on the floor. Today he also emptied every kitchen cupboard he could while I was doing laundry, tipped over his rocking chair and threw all his blankets around, pulled all of Brad's ties out of his closet, and dumped every book off his bookshelf. I won't go on. I know it will only get worse when the baby comes.

But the saddest thing about today, nap time is no more. It has been increasingly harder to get him to go to down for a nap. And he wakes up super duper grumpy. And for the last 4 nights it has taken him close to 2 hours to fall asleep. I was really hoping that naps would last at least through September, but what can you do. So we had no nap today. I was secretly hoping he would crash on his own. No luck. At least bedtime was a breeze. So no nap time = no mommy alone sewing time. Today this was sewing time.
Play dough, buttons, and sock animal limbs. I didn't get quite as much done as I usually do, imagine that!

At least I was lucky enough that bye bye nap time day was my massage day! Maybe that's why I am taking it better than I thought I would. Nothing compares to a massage 10 days from your due date. Except maybe having a baby 10 days from your due date! Hint hint un-named child kicking me right now.
Roman was snooping in my closet and has claimed the boppy pillow as his own. I am sure he is sick of hearing that everything is for the baby. He was practicing holding Monkey with the pillow so he will be ready to hold his baby. He is always telling everyone he will be a big brother soon. I can't wait to see him holding his baby brother.

done done done

2008-08-21T13:11:00.008-06:00

Last night I finished painting the crib and today I moved it inside and it is all ready to go! I found this crib (and crib mattress, not a normal size at all) at a garage sale a few years ago. Kept it out in the back shed until a few weeks ago. Stripped it, sanded it, stained it, sanded some more, and painted it. Made the bumper pads awhile ago. Got the idea from Brittany, her mother in law made her bumper pads like this when Lucy was born. Used one of those quilted cotton blankets/bedspreads. Just cut it up and made a case for some old pads I had. $20 at TJ Maxx and enough left over to make a little crib quilt too. Love how it all turned out. Had fun doing it all. And a huge weight off my shoulders that it is finally done!

Have to sand the other drawer down a bit, paint made it fit too tight. Tight fit in our bedroom, had to move my wardrobe to Roman's room. So his room is a little full of furniture right now. But we will get going on his new room downstairs soon enough, and then all the furniture can get back to normal.

I also did one more quilt last Sunday and finally got the binding sewn on. I know I know, as if I don't have enough blankets and quilts already. But I have had this material for years and have been waiting for an idea to strike me for it. So when the idea came I had to do it. Actually went pretty fast because none of it is pieced, all the squares are just sewn on top. Looks better in real life, it is really wrinkled so it looks like an older quilt.

Well, that's all for now. We'll see who's quicker - me making more stuff or the baby coming! I do have a bobby pillow that needs a cover...

how was your day?

2008-08-19T21:53:00.004-06:00

Bet it was better than mine.
Started out not too bad. Went to the paint store to get more paint for the baby furniture I am refinishing . While they were mixing it I found 3 pints of paint - red, yellow, and blue - from the pre-mixed section. $5.00 each. Brad is going to build Roman a train bed. Engine for the bed and 2 cars for toy boxes. Was very excited to have found exactly what I needed for only $15.00. The blue was a little dark so they added a bit of white to lighten it up and mixed it up for me.

Brought the paint downstairs to show Brad tonight. Bumped the desk the cans were sitting on. And now because the girl at the paint store didn't put the lid on the blue tight enough I have to buy new flooring in my basement. Fell 2 feet onto carpet. I still can't believe the lid came off. Actually it flew off. There was no way she put the lid on tight at all.

They only funny part is later tonight Brad and I weren't paying attention to where Roman was, I realized he was gone and immediately ran downstairs. There he was with two blue feet. You can see his little feet marks at the top. And he started crying, so upset because his feet were blue.

At least it was downstairs and not upstairs. I am now off to have a nice cold Dr. Pepper and a hot bath and to try and not think about how much it is going to cost for new flooring.

yum yum yummy

2008-08-17T19:35:00.003-06:00

Going through pictures on the camera. Realized I haven't put up any from the lake this summer. Maybe I'll get to that one of these days after I sort through them. But for now, I can prove I have done more than sew this summer. One of my favorite things about summer is fresh peaches and respberries, because then I can make peach and raspberry cheesecake pie!
So yummy. I thought I had the recipe on the computer, and I was going to put it up. But now I can't find it. So if anyone is just absolutely dying to have it let me know and we'll see if I can overcome my sudden laziness and type it up.

sewing - yet again!

2008-08-15T22:01:00.015-06:00

I think I am slowly moving away from sewing. Not sure if there is anything left out there for me to sew! Instead I have moved on to stripping, sanding, and staining a little crib. (Romans is still in his, not gunna kick him out of the cage if I don't have to) Now I just need to paint the rest of the crib that isn't stained. Hoping to do that tomorrow. Then I need to sand and paint a little dresser I am using for a changing table. I know, I too am wondering why I didn't do those things earlier. My doctor actaully asked me on Wednedsay (37 weeks) if I wanted him to strip my membranes. NOOOOOO!!!!! I am in panic mode. Not panic because of a labor or a new baby, panic because I need more time to finish stuff and get ready! And panic because my 2 1/2 year old is in full swing terrible twos. Serious huge kicking and hitting and crying fits about EVERYTHING! Wow I love being a mom!
Anyway, here are some pictures of the things I have made since the last sewing post.

Car seat cover. Minky inside, and soft kinda like velor outside. Quilt batting in the middle so it is nice and warm. Is the zebra a bit much? Had it sitting around so I just used it.

Car seat blanket. Someone made me one like it for Roman. I pretty much wore it out. Has 4 rounded over flaps and cut outs for the seatbelt/buckle. Then you flip up the bottom, flip over both sides, and you can cover their head with the top flap. Seatbelt still fits nice and tight, baby is totally covered, and blanket doesn't fall off. I know it looks silly, but I love love love it.
Just a few of the burp clothes and diaper/wipes cases I have been making. I know WAY too many people having babies, and this is what they are all getting. Plus a few for me of course. Made up my own patterns, but I am sure there are lots floating around in blog land. Roman modeling his new apron. A bit big still. Not the best picture, looks cute in real life I promise. Used this tutorial but changed how the neck strap is. I used velcro on one side, because if any kid was to get tangled up in the strap it would be this kid. Romes loves it to death. Now he can "cook like mama".
Roman chillaxing in his hooded bath towel. Uses it at the pool and spray park too. It gets washed A LOT. Think I need to make one or two more. Very very easy project. Used this tutorial, but didn't bother cutting off the point of the hood. Word of advice, buy two bath towels and one hand towel, then you will have 2 hooded towels. Didn't realize when I bought the towels that one hand towel gives you 2 hoods. And of course I bought the towels at Target when we were in the states so I can't get another one to match.

Hemmed new curtains. But I have a double curtain rod in the room so I needed something else. So I made a valence with the left over fabric from the crib bumper pads I made. First valence I have ever made or used. Opinions please. Am I allowed to use a valence? I am a little afraid the 80's might call and say they want their valence back!
Bird mobile. Bad picture I know, hard to get those birdies to hold still! Got the mobile while garage saleing with Steph. Three dollars. Immediately cut off the ugly bears that were on it. I hate baby stuff with bears. Sorry to offend bear lovers everywhere. Got the bird idea and pattern here. Another very easy and quick project completed in one naptime.
A few more blankets. Orange cotton and brown/cream flannel. Simple pillow case style, quilted with circles so it won't shift when washed. Found double sided minky on sale in Kalispell this summer, used Amy Butler polka dots in green, yellow, and blue for binding it.

I must thank my awesome husband for this chair. I love the armchair rockers at Pottery Barn and Land of Nod, but there is no way I am paying over $800 dollars plus shipping for one. So I bought this chair at Ikea. Got an old swivel rocker from my grandma. Convinced Brad it would be so much fun to take the swivel rocker thing off one chair and put it on the other. And oh what fun it is! But I might not be saying that at 4:00 in the morning 3 weeks from now...
And last but not least... my baby quilt is done! Random is harder than you would think. It is also hard to find solid blue fabric. I had to use shirting material for the blue. I laugh every time I look at it because it perfectly matches a church shirt both Brad and Roman have! Totally copied the idea from this blog. Copied the colors, used her tutorial as a starting place, and even copied one or two of her blocks. It's a little crazy to look at, but I love how it turned out and it was fun to make.
Wow that was a lot of stuff. I must admit I will miss nap time and bedtime sewing once the baby comes. But I can't wait to use all the stuff I have made!

a quick post

2008-08-11T08:06:00.015-06:00

Just a quick post with some pictures I just took off the camera. For the past few weeks we have just been hanging out and enjoying summer.
Here is a bit of what we have been up to.
Lots of trips to the pool and spray park with friends. Of course I never take my camera with us. Here is Roman at his own little spray park.
Catching water.

Drinking water.
Playing in the sandbox. I'm not a huge sandbox fan. Sand gets everywhere! It is on the deck so the sand that gets thrown out falls down and I can spray him off with the hose when he is done.
Making homemade ice cream.
Getting fat lips - it got way bigger too. Poor little guy. And as you can see from the background, painting all out kitchen cupboards. Finally. I have only been talking about it for what a year now. We finally just said we have to make the time to do it, so 36 weeks pregnant was the time apparently!
Paige is working in Waterton for the summer. We went up last Sunday to visit her. Here is the classic waterfall pose.
Me and Roman on our big "hike" to the top of the waterfall. He thought the "hike" was the greatest thing ever.
Paige and Roman. How did she manage to get the big eyes and the good hair? At least I am taller than her.
Throwing rocks in lake. Always a favorite pass time at Waterton.
The little family of three - well not so little me - soon to be family of four!

radium

2008-07-21T14:07:00.009-06:00

Went to Radium hot springs in BC this weekend with all of Brad's family, minus Bryan and Erin and their kids, and Sean who had to work.
Roman got sick two days before we were leaving. But he started on antibiotics, and they must have done something because he was pretty good the whole trip and had so much fun with his cousins.

Lots of family. Gorgeous weather. Swimming in the hot springs. Forgot to take pictures half the time. Playing at the park. Ice Cream from grandma. Lots of yummy food. Long car ride for pregnant me. But lots and lots of fun.

Pregnant face me, Roman, and Brad.
Blowing bubbles
Really getting into riding the motorcycle at the park
The best way to travel

Trying to tell the gophers to come out so he could feed them grass. Just yelling away at them through the hole. So funny to watch.

"ro ro spill mama's eggs" - yep he is all about the third person

2008-07-11T08:46:00.007-06:00

I guess this is what I get for unlocking the fridge for him to pick his lunch while I was on the phone with Britt. All six eggs on the floor. I was very glad I didn't buy a dozen.
That and a couch full of yogurt that he decided he didn't want to eat anymore but wanted to finger paint with.

Then I get the forced cry in timeout.
And then the cheese face because he realized I was taking a picture.
But then he is such a happy smiley boy eating his pizza bun for lunch and talking me into going to the park.
Toddler's crack me up!

I want to scream!

2008-07-09T19:53:00.002-06:00

Back from the lake, need to go through pictures before I post again. Right now I just have to vent before I go crazy! If I hear of one more person naming their baby girl Finley I am going to go stark raving mad! When Roman was born we decided that our next boy would be named Finley. Then all the sudden a million and one people started using the name for girls. Drives me crazy. Okay, I guess I can deal with that. It's not like every other name that once belonged only to boys hasn't become a girls name too. Seriously, can we leave some names for boys, soon there won't be any left. So Finn is fine. My little boy could be Finn. That was until a girl in my ward had a baby a week ago and named her Finley. A girl who will always live in Raymond. So if we always live in Raymond my little Finn would be in the same grade with a little girl Finley. I know it is probably hormones, but I am really really mad! Sure if my Finn is confident and all he could pull it off and not care. But what if he isn't? Do you do that to a kid just because you like the name? Or does it not really matter because the world is so full of bisexual names that in my opinion shouldn't be. Not to mention the made up names that shouldn't be names at all. Help me someone!