Motherly Musings

Sea World in December

2010-12-11T15:28:00.000-08:00

We love being close to Sea World and especially like to use our passes in the middle of December when the weather is nice and the crowds are small. Each time we go, the kids get more brave with their experience. This visit included petting flamingos, the boys' first roller coaster ride without a parent and a Sesame Street live show (E only cried a little bit as she hates "live" characters or anything dressed up for that matter).

First Lost Tooth

2010-12-05T15:22:00.000-08:00

After months of wiggling, M finally lost his first tooth. That thing was hanging by a thread. We tried to pull it a couple of times but it is so hard to get a hold on such a tiny thing...and, to be honest, I don't think I can do it. I make Marc try. The thought of the possible sounds and sensations that may accompany pulling a tooth do not appeal to me at all. M wasn't too into it either...so it fell out in his sleep and he woke up with it just hanging out in his mouth.

As an aside...M's second tooth came out the same way, and was actually swallowed in the process. Oh well, he wrote a note to the Tooth Fairy so he wouldn't miss out on any cold hard cash!

Give Thanks

2010-11-24T15:15:00.000-08:00

SO FUN to have guests for Thanksgiving. Julie, Jimmy and MA came along with Adam and one of his Air Force buddies. It was so fun to have a full house although it was a challenge to keep enough food on the table for two HUGE men (plus Jimmy and Marc). No joke, Adam and his ex-NFL friend could have eaten my table and still been hungry.
E loved having her boyfriend (aka Jimmy) and the boys used Uncle Adam as their interactive human jungle gym. I kept waiting for the blood to flow...but we made it out with only a few tears.
The kiddos were thrilled to have MA and they all wanted to hold her. E was in her face all the time trying to help with her binky and give her loves. Ah, a girl after my own heart!

Ode to the Trampoline

2010-11-20T14:42:00.000-08:00

We sure love to jump on the trampoline around here. The grandparents got together and purchased it for the kids for a birthday gift this year. It has been nothing but wonderful and a great way to get our some of the plenitude of energy we seem to have in excess. The best times are when an adult feels like getting "their jump on" or when they are convinced that they will love it. Thanks grandma...you know all the fun things to do!

Hallow's Eve

2010-10-31T14:27:00.000-07:00

I guess it should make sense to me that my children are becoming much more opinionated about what they want to be for Halloween. This year, they started "deciding" what they wanted to be about July. About two weeks out, I made them commit. They are into Star Wars (as usual) and all other super heroes. So, M finally decided on Darth Vader; a decision I am sure was assisted by the fact that I purchased the D.V. mask last year and he wants to wear it every day. B took a little bit longer, but settled on Batman. E didn't have much choice. I have been looking forward to having her be a little witch. My mom made this costume for me when I was her age and she gave it to me after E was born. So, that made her an even cuter witch for me.
Since Halloween was on Sunday this year, we just did the trunk or treat at church and then had dinner with a few friends on Sunday. I let the kids give out some candy to the neighbor kids and they seemed really happy to have that important job.

Baby MA and Grandma H

2010-10-21T14:17:00.000-07:00

We got to take a quick trip to Houston to see the newest cousin...sweet little MA. Julie and Jimmy had their first daughter this week and she is such a doll. I just love the tiny babies, fresh from above. How darling is she...and of course she has to have a bow right away.
The other bonus to the trip was getting to see Adam and my mom (who got to come home from her mission for a couple weeks to help out).
We had a wonderful couple days there and can't wait until we will all be on the same continent again.

Biker Momma

2010-10-07T13:19:00.000-07:00

E definitely loves bikes...but not and of those "baby bikes", no...it has to be the hot wheels of course. Our driveway has a little slope to it and she squeals with delight as she zooms down onto the street.
The first time she did it she climbed onto the bike and went down on her own. I turned around in time to see her halfway down the driveway. So, I bolted after her and was sure she would either crash and fall off or cry from surprise. Nope, neither...she was so excited and happy with herself. So we spent the next hour dragging her back up the drive for more.
Now if we could just teach herself to get back up the drive...I'd have it made in the shade!

Down at the Farm

2010-09-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

We went to a lovely little farm just outside the city limits with B's preschool class. It was pretty fun if you ask me...or E or B. Highlights include, but are not limited to when the farmer was milking the cow and he squirted the audience, the hayride, the fairy forest complete with cool faced trees, lots of touching animals, friends and a picnic to boot.
I just love to see the kids grown and their independence flourish (most of the time when it is not mis-directed against me).

NYC+DC-CHILDREN =GOOD TIMES

2010-09-16T19:19:00.000-07:00

PART 1 : NYC
What a great girls' trip. Marc sure knows how to spoil me. I spent almost a full week back east with fabulous friends in September. To say that we lived each moment to the fullest would be a serious understatement. This was not a trip for sissies...oh no, we had it planned by the hour and we kept to the schedule to try to fit it all in. One of the most common phrases of the week was "can you even imagine how this would be if we had our kids here right now?" It was so fun and we fell onto our pillows each night with pure but happy exhaustion.
Seriously, I cannot even remember everything we did...but here is a small list: Yummy pizza in Brooklyn at renowned Grimwalds, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, walking tour of Union Station and its surrounding neighborhoods, Central Library, Empire State building, shopping, Broadway musical, Jimmy Falon Show, the Met and Cloister museums, China Town, Little Italy, bike around central park, etc, etc, etc.
To say that we did A LOT in the three days is an understatement. It was wonderful and so much fun to see the girls (two of the crew had the nerve to move away). Can't wait to do it again...thanks to Mel for making it happen!!

PART 2: DC
So, after a morning of breakfast and biking central park we misjudged our time and nearly missed our bus to DC. We literally ran for our lives...sweating all the way. Then Abby and I enjoyed our most relaxing portion of the trip...a four hour talk on the way to DC. We had already agreed we would use the time to catch up on much-needed sleep...but that was a useless idea. Hours of uninterrupted chat time...seize the day, right!? So, we got to DC and were picked up by my lovely friend, Jenna. She obliged in taking us on a mini car tour so that Abby could take in a few of the sights (she had never been to DC). Then we headed to Kimberly's for the evening. Unfortunately...the craziness took a toll on my traveling buddy and landed her with a major migrane that put her out of the fun for the night. So, we put her to bed and ate and had over a dozen of my closest friends from DC. We sat out on the deck and talked till the wee-ish hours of the night...or at least until we were all blinking back the sleep. The next day I enjoyed church in my old ward before heading back to the airport where, our flight was canceled and we had to re-book for the following day. Darn...
So, I got in a day late, slightly worse for wear but happy.

Preschool here I come...

2010-08-31T19:05:00.000-07:00

B was so cute getting ready for preschool. He had his "All About Me" poster ready...which he HAD to carry by himself. He was so excited to do his homework (let's hope that never changes). I think dropping him off was much harder for me. I have never actually sent my kid to a preschool (one that I wasn't actually teaching/co-op). I felt guilty.
His teacher is the nicest southern lady with big bangs and scrunchies. She is perfect and the kids all LOVE her.
The biggest problem of the day was trying to tell sissy that she didn't get to stay at preschool also. I think that is the sad thing for the youngest...they always want to go along with the big kids. Soon enough, young one...soon enough. (sniff, sniff)

First Grade

2010-08-24T15:43:00.000-07:00

M started first grade today! Where does the time go. I remember how long the summer seemed like it would be as I welcomed him home from his last day of Kinder. But, in true life fashion, it was but a blink of my eye and I am already sending him off to 1st. Tomorrow...college.

He was excited and ready to learn. Much more sure of himself than last year. When we got to his classroom he went right to his desk and got to work. I had to call him to turn his face for a picture. I am his teacher thinks I am a kook...but I just love to get those pictures so I can document how eager he is. I hope that never changes.

He seems to be really excited about the year and not really phased that there is only one girl from his last class in his new class. His teacher seems great...first year teacher...so hopefully it will be smooth sailing for her. I know that M will be helpful to her and I can't wait to see how much he learns and matures this year.

B is FOUR!!

2010-08-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

Four short years ago today, our little family of three became a whoping family of 4 with the arrival of our vibrant and strong B-Man. We love this fierce little spirit and can't wait to see what he decides to do with his life and how to channel all of his will and desires.

As tradition stands...B chose all his meals beginning with a breakfast of champions...doughnuts, gogurt and fruit. Next we had a fun little party...mostly it was a monster party with a hint of star wars. He requested the Anakin vs. Obi Wan lava planet battle...yeah, and I am not a cake maker/decorator so I was just a bit intimidated.

We played fun games outside and ate lots of monster snacks. B requested that I make goo...another thing I think I would outsource in the future. He seemed pleased and I haven't heard of any of our guests ruining any furniture with it yet...bonus.

At the end of the day, my little monster Jedi seemed pleased...

We LOVE the Beach!!

2010-08-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot how much I love the beach. We went down to Corpus Christi and had our first Texas beach experience...and I have to admit, it was much better than I expected it to be. There was plenty of sand and the water was warm...what more could you ask for? The sand seemed very unique and the kids enjoyed digging huge pits almost non-stop. We did a pretty good job not getting sunburned and got to play with some great friends. It made me want to become a beach bum...I just love it so much. E took to the sand like a crab and was joyously dipping her Doritos to cover each chip with bits of sand before eating. Yum! For me the only down side was getting stung by tiny jelly fish. Luckily I was the only one who really got a bad one and the sting only lasted for about half an hour. Upon discovering the little jelly fish, the boys also made a little prison for as many jelly fish as they could capture. We had a fun time keeping E from taking a dip in it...but they loved it all.

I look forward to many happy returns...

Naughty Painters

2010-07-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

So, my friend has this saying that goes, "I can't be too mad if I wasn't watching them." That is pretty much how I felt about this situation. I love letting the kids paint and they love it...but it seems like lately, simple paper is not enough for our budding artists. Does this indicate a future as tattoo artists? I hope not...but it was pretty funny after my initial annoyance at having to clean them up. B was upset that I was taking a picture...he gets very embarrassed and hates for people to look at him.

Classic

2010-07-18T13:35:00.000-07:00

Just a classic pic of our little eater. I love that this girl will at least try just about anything. She is very, very independent and insists on feeding herself. I love watching her...she will hold the spoon in one hand and grab food with the free hand and shovel it into her hand. A utensil decoy...very smart, young one.

Sticker Charts

2010-07-10T13:18:00.000-07:00

This summer I made sticker charts for the boys. It was an attempt to keep us all sane and motivated and it worked some of the time. They got points for things like keeping their pants dry, being gentlemen, "whine free" days, healthy dinner eater, obedience, etc. Then there was a chart of rewards they could earn. I spent a lot of time trying to come up with really good things that I thought would be fun...and do you want to know what happened!? After reviewing their prize options, M said that he wanted to add one more thing in the blank line at the bottom. "Great," I thought...what was it going to be...a vacation to the beach, something from the lego store...nope. He wanted to get out the Halloween bins and play with the costumes and spider webs...and what was more interesting - he gave it the highest point value on the page...above Sea World, bowling, the zoo, ice cream....hmmm, go figure. Next summer I am going to have them make up their own incentives!

Airman Adam Hrncirik...Reporting for duty

2010-07-04T12:53:00.000-07:00

I really hate to admit this....but I am pretty sure I have taken my freedom for granted until now. There is just something about having a family member in the military that makes you feel really proud and grateful...not to mention your baby bro! This is the boy I used to change and feed and carry around singing "The Skeeters and the Bedbugs" song to in a chipmunky voice. This is the boy I couldn't imagine was old enough to drive, let alone carry a weapon. But, he enlisted in the air force and rocked basic training as he embarks a three year journey to becoming a member of a special forces team.

We had the privilege of going to his graduation from basic in San Antonio. I won't even go into the details of our ghetto fabulous hotel or tell you how long it took to get the smell out of our clothes because the week was wonderful. Adam is hardcore to say the least. Out of...oh, I can't remember how many there were...but he was at least in the top 5 (not percent...I'm saying #5 or better) of all of the graduates. Based on the sheet they gave us of all their physical stats...he was either 2nd or 3rd overall physically (when ranked in running, push ups, pull ups, sit ups, etc) and he graduated in the top 10% and was awarded "Honor Graduate". I was as proud as any "mother" could be...and I am not even his mom.

The boys were so excited to see him. They idolize their uncle. I just loved that we were a part of it and I LOVED that M was saluting like all the airmen during the ceremony. I also had to document the level of order and cleanliness never before seen or embraced by little bro...just had to show it for posterity's sake.

All Grown UP

2010-06-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

E thinks she is so big...but I think she still kind of likes being a baby. I watch two kids once a week for my friend. The youngest is six months younger than E. So, I pulled our bouncer back out for her. Now, E's favorite thing to do is to climb into the bouncer and be a big baby. The funny thing is, she plays in it more now than she did when she was a baby.

Family Reunion...TX Style

2010-06-19T11:46:00.000-07:00

So, there are family reunions...and then there are family reunions in small town, middle of NOWHERE TX. Marc is very supportive and maybe, just maybe, I with held the complete truth of total travel time to Seymour, TX from Austin...but I am glad we went (because according to him, we won't be going "all the way up there" again...smile...sigh). So, let's just set up the stage for you...first, we drive up to Dallas, which might as well be Alaska. After the first 15 minutes in the car, the kids are already "done" and want to know how many movies they "have" to watch before we get there. Luckily we have family in Dallas...so we play with cousins, eat yummy food and pretend that we won't have to journey farther into the wilderness in the morning. Bright and early...it is already a balmy 90 degrees at least, we pack up and head north-ish, I think. We follow our trusty google directions for another 2 hours or so until we get to the part where we should be getting where we're gettin' to. The directions just tell us to drive but not where to exit so we drive past both of the two "exits" for Seymour. Marc asks, "I thought it was downtown...where's downtown?" "We just passed it," I say.
SO, we take our next turn onto a small street with trailers, houses and a few businesses (none of which are open). We pull into the gravel parking lot of a strip mall kind of thing and a man comes out of one of the "closed" stores. "Can I help Ya'll? he asks with a charming southern drawl. "Yes, we are trying to find (show him the address)." "Oh, you must be here for the big "Hensrick/Vita" reunion, right?" Wow...when our reunion makes the local paper and all the residents know about it...you know you are in a small place. Kind of nice... but forget about privacy in a place like this!! He kindly pointed us in the right direction...which wasn't hard considering that there were only two main streets in town...and we arrived at our destination. It was kind of like a metal "barn" structure with plywood walls inside and almost no moving air...which might not be too bad except it felt like it was about 120 outside. Eme spent her time gazing at a picture of a local priest on the wall while Marc braved the heat outside with the boys. There was a bounce house and unlimited desserts so we might as well have been at Disney World as far as the kids were concerned (see pics of some happy kids).
Mostly, I caught up with some aunts and a couple of cousins and then there was the room of others I mostly don't know. I liked watching all the "old timers" interact and share their stories with each other. My Aunt Mildred celebrated her 80th bday and my Aunt Gladys (who shares a bday with Adam) had her birthday that very day. Call me crazy, but even though it was less than exciting and it took forever to get there...I like the idea of my kids knowing where they come from.

Until We Meet Again...sniff, sniff

2010-06-18T11:13:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe I will not physically "see" my parents for a year and a half. It didn't seem like such a long time before now. My parents accepted a call to serve a full time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to the Czech Republic (aka...the motherland). Of course I know that they are needed and that they are preforming a very important service...but let me be just a little bit selfish for a minute.
I am pretty much the same person I was back in high school...but ya know how it seems like your children have grown while you were away for a weekend...yeah, multiply that by five million for how much the grandparents will miss of the little ones while they are away. It just makes me so sad that M will be almost eight when they get back, B will be in Kindergarten and E will be talking. Surely I am just being a little emotional about this...but my kids adore my parents and I know how much they love watching my children grow up and what a sacrifice it is for them. I guess I have a ways to go in my love of all mankind before I go on a mission...but for now, I will just give my kiddos a squeeze for my parents and countdown the time until we can all play together again!

It seems like just yesterday...

2010-06-09T19:33:00.000-07:00

that I was rubbing my large belly wondering what this bundle of joy would look like and if she would be calm or crazy....and now she is 1!! It's just not fair that they grow up so fast! I love her so much it is silly.
She is very independent (a third child for sure). She can do it by herself or at least she is going to try it! She is walking around and showing us just what she wants.
For her birthday we just had a couple little friends over for cake. I was sure that she was going to dig right in...but she had to be persuaded to even taste the cake. Hmmm....wasn't expecting that from our big eater...maybe next year.

Boys and their toys

2010-05-30T15:15:00.000-07:00

We are lucky to have Marc's parents moving down to the great state O' Texas (Dallas) and are now blessed to see them more often. Inevitably the boys beg grandpa to play this pterodactyl game on his computer and they watch for as long as he will play. What I think is great is that they don't beg to play it themselves...they just love to watch him. I'm sure this will change in the near future but for now I love their simple pleasures!

Six already???

2010-05-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

Sleeping in a tent for his birthday wish! Matching PJs are obviously so overrated!
Good buddies!
Nothing like making smores in 90 degree weather!
The simple things in life. Why can't legos solve all the world's problems?

I can't believe my baby boy is 6! When he started kinder I felt old...but he is almost 10 already. That is crazy. I narrowly avoided yet another Star Wars party by proposing a camping party. A little worried that his guests would not know all of his interests...we called it his "Camping Star Wars Legos" party. It was a busy weekend...I got really sick and was laid out two days before his party. I nearly called it of the day before but around 4 pm started to feel miraculously better. So, I got to work making a cake and day pack party favors for all the kiddos. I sewed until 11 and then decided to call it quits. We, meaning Marc, pitched a huge and awesome tent (on loan by my parents) in the back...set up a fire pit for smores and waited for the good times to commence.
I thought the party was a hit. We went for a nature scavenger hunt in the greenbelt behind our house and "bombed" some mosquitoes with water balloons. It was lots of fun. I think the tent was the best part. The kids just wanted to do everything in there.
Of course M got some sweet things...tops were his lego X Wing Fighter and a trampoline from all his grandparents for the back yard! AHHH...let the good times roll!

Why not?

2010-05-08T14:42:00.000-07:00

Why can't everyone wear tutus?

First Family Race

2010-05-01T14:39:00.000-07:00

One of my close friends organized a 5 K for the daughter of a friend of hers who had a brain tumor at 3 months of age. The story of how it all came about is heart warming. My friend, Jessica, is really inspiring and we wanted to support all of her awesomeness and crazy efforts to put this on (all the while battling serious morning sickness).
We all signed up and did the race as a family. It was nice to do something like this together but was also a good teaching moment for me and the boys. After we completed the race, Mackay and I went over near the finish line where some of the bigger kids were congregated. One of the boys made a comment about wanting to see who was going to be last and they all started laughing. Mackay then made a not-so-positive comment about a larger woman who was coming across the finish line. What ensued was a great talk about things we say out loud to people and also thinking about what we are saying and about the other person. It was one of those parenting moments when you feel like they really got it.

A Beautiful Day

2010-04-09T13:33:00.000-07:00

Couldn't skip over such a beautiful day. My baby sis, Melissa, married Erick Avila in the Houston temple today. It was a beautiful ceremony, a stunning bride and handsome groom, yummy food and a fun party to boot. Congrats and best wishes for every happiness life has to offer!

Easter

2010-04-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

We headed down to my parent's house for our last holiday together for a little while. Cory and his family came down for the wedding early, Adam was still home preparing to leave for boot camp and Julie and Jimmy are in TX now... so we were only missing the love birds who arrived the following week.
We had lots of fun with the cousins. Lots of playing and nature walks with grandma. We also discovered that E is a beef jerky kind of girl. It kind of makes me want to throw up in my mouth because I can't even handle the smell of it...but, hey, whatever makes her happy!

The Happiest Place on Earth

2010-03-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

With Aunt Betty and sweet Great Grandma Cookie.
Epic castle

It's a Small World afterall got a facelift since the last time I was here!

Let me just say that Walt Disney was right, it is the happiest place on earth. For spring break we took the trek to Florida to take Marc...I mean, the kiddos to Disney World. I really worried that they were not old enough and that they wouldn't be big enough to ride most things...but those fears were quickly dispersed after the first day (thanks to all the hugeness genes, M could ride everything he wanted and B could ride most things).
Yes, it is true...the drive was heinous...but I'd venture to say that it was worth it. We spent three days at the various parks, saw Aunt Betty and Great Grandma Cookie (a real treat!!) and also went to the beach in Destin on the way home. The kids were wonderfully well-behaved and didn't get too cranky despite our packed days and late nights. It was so fun to watch their faces and see them overcome fears. M went on almost all the biggest roller coasters. Ultimately he said that his favorite was Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain. He wasn't a big fan of the ones that were way too loud and/or dark.
True to his personality...B took right to roller coasters. To see his expression while on Thunder Mountain, you'd think he was in company with Santa, the Easter Bunny and trick or treating all at once.
I am pretty sure that Marc had the hardest time leaving. He was definitely the biggest kid of all for the week. I am glad he had fun and I am sure we won't be able to stay away for too long!

Florida Continued...

2010-03-17T17:26:00.000-07:00

Destin, FL before the oil catastrophe. GORGEOUS!!
Bug's life glasses look so cute on these boys!

Every boys' dream...to ride a real Star Wars speeder.

Spring is in the Air

2010-02-28T21:35:00.000-08:00

Please note the cheeto face on B...indicating that his grandparents are in town.

There is nothing like planting your spring garden and getting the plants all ready and cut back to make you feel like Spring might actually arrive. My parents are always so inspirational to me when it comes to all things outdoors. Plus, it probably helps that they are always game to give me tips and go pick out plants when they are here. I know almost nothing despite years of gardening as a family "privilege" growing up. I still have nightmares of collecting the scary tomato worms with their stingers and stripes.
I am going to admit something right now...I didn't like to be outside, pretty much ever when I was a young girl. I considered myself an "inside person". I actually remember calling myself that when talking to people. Maybe it is participating in outdoor sports for so long or something, but I feel like I appreciate nature a lot more in my "old age". Don't get me wrong, I am not ready to move out on the range...but I love that we have 1/4 acre lot and that I have space for a garden and room for the boys to play soccer to boot.

Practically an adult

2010-02-28T12:51:00.000-08:00

Right around my birthday...little momma started to crawl!
If you look past the very impressive spit bubble, you can catch a glimpse of tooth #1 trying to bust out (photo taken 3/9/10).

Just before my birthday, E turned into a full-on adult...well almost. It makes me so sad that she is beginning to do all those things and develop into a toddler. That means that she almost isn't a baby anymore. That's all I can write for now about this topic...I am getting too teary-eyed to see.

He knows how to write???

2010-02-24T21:27:00.000-08:00

I am very guilty of letting a lot of things slide with children #2 and #3. Please tell me that it is normal so I will not lay awake at night feeling totally incompetent. I remember life with M. He knew all his shapes, colors, numbers, how to spell his name, etc by the time he was 3. This is just not the case with the others. I am pretty sure that it is just my lackadaisical attitude and not the abilities of the children as I learned this week that B can actually write...and that was without any kind of crazy "teach your three year old to write if it kills you both boot camp" that I may or may not have done with #1. We were writing on a birthday card for a cousin and B insisted on writing his name. I decided that he could pretend so I helped him with which letters to write and I was totally blown out of the water. With ZERO help from me, he can write almost all his letters. It was a wake up call to me...I can't put any of my kids in certain boxes...because they will prove me wrong time and time again.

The BIG Snow Storm

2010-02-24T21:20:00.000-08:00

As far as extreme weather goes, we are pretty much limited to serious summer heat as far as I can tell. It is very cute to see how excited the kids get when anything falls from the sky around here. Today (this is MANY months after the fact as I am trying to catch up on posts) B asked, "Mommy, can we go to the snowy country sometime...you know, where the penguins live?" I know there is something magical about it. I have to admit that I am totally fine without it. It does make me feel kind of like the Peter Pan character in Hook. He grows old and totally looses touch with the magic of life until he sees it again through the eyes of children.
The boys were so excited. They scraped all the snow they could muster and worked long and hard to create this adorable mini snowman. By the afternoon, he had proper arms and everything.

Marathon Kids

2010-02-20T21:15:00.000-08:00

Austin schools do this great program called Marathon Kids. It's aim is to get kids active and excited about physical fitness. It didn't take much to hook M (since he loves to run) but it also got B really psyched too...it might have had something to do with the promise of a medal...but who's counting.
How it works is, throughout the school year each child runs a marathon (pretty much one lap at a time). In the beginning of the year, they had a big kickoff ceremony to do the first lap and then this weekend we participated in the final lap.
On "race day", we met at a track to complete the marathon. I had a long run earlier in the morning and (since I was already totally sweaty) it was decided that I would run ahead with M while B raced with daddy and E in the stroller. When the gun sounded, M was off. He ran his little heart out and finished with the top few children across the line. B also ran most of the lap and was so proud when he got his first medal. I think they are hooked!

Goodbye Rolla...Hello Swagger Wagon

2010-02-19T21:03:00.000-08:00

We decided that, before she died on us, and before we drove to Florida and before the tax refund sweetness in TX for cars older than 10 years expired...it was time to get rid of the Corolla. She was such a great car...good times and memories for all. Marc and his sister shared the car at BYU when we met, dated, and graduated. She drove us safely across this country and back many times.
Since the state was just planning to scrap her for parts, I thought it would be fun for the kiddos to paint her before we turned her in. I mean, come on, what kid wouldn't want to legally paint a car, right!? They loved it. I am sure they would have painted all night if we didn't cut them off to go to sleep. It was the perfect ending to a great legacy.
On the flip side...we joined the ranks of mini van drivers. We are officially a family now I suppose. The kids think it is the coolest car we could possibly own. We wouldn't go that far...but it is remarkable how much easier it is to tune out certain things when they are sitting so far away! After seeing the YouTube video , they totally call it a swagger wagon. I love it!

For the Love of Star Wars...

2010-02-10T20:58:00.000-08:00

Anyone else love Star Wars as much as my boys? I kind of love that they like it so much. Our days are filled with Star Wars books, movies, legos, make believe, etc. I'm never quite sure who to be when they ask me to pick someone...but they always have a suggestion.
It could be a lot worse!

IS IT WRONG...

2010-01-10T20:55:00.000-08:00

to love your kids so much that you just want to squeeze them all the time? Just wondering...

One Year Older and Wiser TOO?

2010-01-05T20:52:00.000-08:00

It was lots of fun to have a quick visit from my parent's on my Dad's birthday. This is the last year in his 50's...and we didn't want to kill him off with 59 candles...so we just let him do 5. Happy Birthday Dad!

New Year's Day

2010-01-01T20:44:00.000-08:00

You know you are officially old and have small children when you aren't really sure that you did anything on New Years...in fact, you are pretty sure that you were sleeping by midnight...but you do remember that you went to the zoo bright and early on New Year's Day. We had a blast. We drove on down to San Antonio Zoo(because the Austin Zoo is laughable at best) with some of our favorite friends and made a day out of it. I'll admit that I am a little spoiled with my memories of the fantastical Smithsonian Zoo...but they say that our zoo is pretty good. I will admit that it is nice and also lacks the crazy sloping hills that used to make me sweat profusely and possibly curse in my mind whilst pushing my 80 lbs of children in the stroller.
We had a lovely time...the kids love the zoo so much. It was Eme's first trip. She might have noticed an animal or two. I am sure she will like it more each time we go. She mostly loved Marc - she pretty much loves him the most.

Feliz Navidad

2009-12-26T20:29:00.000-08:00

Grandma Walker was able to come for a brief visit. What a treat!

One of the funniest nativity stories I have ever seen...note the kitty ears on Marc. Need I say more.

There is nothing quite like Christmas to make you feel like a kid again! I just love Christmas with kids. I love the excitement and anticipation of every part of the holiday season. We really try to limit the "stuff" part and focus as much on the real goodness of Christmas as possible. It probably helps that our TV doesn't really get channels and they are unable to pipe in cable...so we are not bombarded with all the crazy commercials.
I was pretty proud of my boys this year. They did extra chores to earn money to buy gifts for other children (Sub for Santa kind of things). They had so much fun picking out all the toys...maybe they thought they might get to keep them, I am not sure. But I would like to think that they "got" it a little bit. Hopefully we can keep up the tradition and it will be something they will remember with fondness.
We got to spend Christmas with Marc's family in Dallas. It was very fun to be with all the cousins at one time. The boys couldn't get enough...plus their cousins have a WII, so they pretty much didn't want to come home. To top it all off, we got a white Christmas. It was kind of crazy...but we were in Dallas afterall! LOL

Our Little Runner

2009-12-12T10:57:00.000-08:00

M loves to run. He always wants to race. When he was younger and we had preschool at our house, he'd beg his friends to race him over and over and over. Usually kids are happy to do a few loops around the couch or the backyard, but this is different. Four or five laps later, most are ready for a rest and/or don't want to race anymore. But not M...he could go on forever.
Since he started school, on our way home from school he asks to be dropped off at the end of the street by the mailbox because he wants to run home.

Don't get me wrong, we LOVE that he likes to run and totally encourage it, so I was really excited when I got a notice from school that there was a district-wide cross country race. The race was broken up by ages and gender and was 1 kilometer. I know that doesn't seem that far...but to a 5 year old used to running home from the mailbox, I knew it might be a little daunting. So, I mentioned the race (almost in passing) and said that he could do it if he wanted. He thought for a moment and said that he would think about it (totally his father's child...analyzing already). After about a week, he decided that he wanted to do it and even chose the race over going to Sea World.

On "race day" I was totally nervous. I felt the same as I feel before one of my races. I tried to act calm and not project my feelings on him. He was so cute. Before the race, he got into the holding area with all the other 5 yr old boys and "warmed up" by doing jumping jacks and some stretches (maybe they do that in PE at school...I wasn't sure what he would do when the announcer told them to warm up). Then, the gun sounded and he was off. He did such a good job and ran the whole way. I couldn't have been more proud if he was in the Olympics. Who knows if he will continue to run...but it doesn't really matter. It was fun to see him doing something that he loves!

For the Love of Food

2009-11-26T10:38:00.000-08:00

FOOD...it's everywhere...especially at this time of year. Some people have self-control and limit themselves, but for what? Is it weird that holidays mean something to me...and by something I mean that I think about food almost non-stop. Is it just me? Did something happen in my childhood that made me so obsessed with eating and cooking and tasting? I just don't know but I kind of don't care. There are things in life that are for pure enjoyment, and I think food is one of those things.
One of my sisters-in-law is able to cook an entire meal and never, ever taste it along the way. I asked her how she would know if the meal was ok and she told me that they would find out when they started eating. I think that is awesome but for many reasons, I don't think I can do it. I feel like tasting along the way is part of my cooking process (whether for peace of mind or just enjoyment...I'm not sure).
At any rate, this is my ode to food, I guess. I love everything about food and am so happy to live in such a prosperous time and place that I can fully enjoy and savor every tasty bite.

Sick Girl

2009-11-17T10:20:00.000-08:00

SO, E has gotten her fair share of (what I thought were) colds this past few months (starting to think it is more allergy related, we ARE in Austin afterall!!). Poor thing just cringes when she sees a kleenex coming her direction. The things is...even when she looks awful and like she must feel cruddy, she is still remarkably pleasant and sweet. It's like she feels bad for feeling bad and so she tries to smile and "act" like everything is ok...how thoughtful of her, right!?

Halloween

2009-10-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

My sister hosted an awesome Halloween party and we couldn't resist driving down to Houston to participate. I can't believe I don't have pictures of it to prove how awesome she is. The invitation was a work of art...seriously...I kept it out to show friends for weeks. She had the whole place decked out from the entry to the bathroom. There were devilishly delectable things to eat (and eat and eat) and fun games too. Plus, my sister dresses up as the most amazing witch ever...green face and all(hopefully I can get her to send a pic so i can show you).
So, we had tons of fun and witnessed a miracle...my dad dressed up for the first time ever! I am not sure if it is the grand kids...but he is getting "soft" in his old age I guess. It was great. He even won the costume contest by a landslide. (As an aside...face paint as part of a costume for kids...not so much a big hit in my house as you might be able to see.)
On Halloween night we went out to a party at my parent's house. It was fun and entertaining for the kiddos. But possibly its most redeeming quality as a party was that when the kids were "done" and started asking for sleep...we just had to walk in the house and put them in bed. Ahhh....good times.

Friendships that last

2009-10-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

Some things never go away...a good friendship is one of those things. A true friend can still be your friend even when you haven't talked for months...or even years. You can pick up the relationship where it was "left" without any weirdness.
The first week of OctoberI experienced this firsthand. I spent a weekend in California to attend the wedding of my dear friend, Amy. Amy and I met in 7th grade and became best friends. We were thick as thieves throughout middle school and high school and remain close as adults. Amy was always kind and sensitive as a friend and always sacrificed to be part of my life. She even came all the way to Utah to visit me in college and then to LA for my wedding. Her family is wonderful and her house was like a second home for me growing up. I will always love her and am soooo happy she found Spencer. From our brief meeting I saw that he is handsome, generous and kind and that, most importantly, he loves Amy. Their wedding was very nice and Amy was one of the most beautiful brides ever. I am so glad that I was able to participate. (I couldn't find my camera on the day of the wedding...big bummer...so here are pics from the rehearsal).

AND...as if that was not wonderful enough...I got to stay with one of my most wonderful friends, Lizzie. Lizzie was one of my first "married friends" (we were even married days apart). Her husband and mine got their first jobs out of college at Merrill Lynch (back in its hay day). Lizzie is one of those friends that I feel was my other half...irreplaceable. We lived a few doors down from each other and did almost everything together. We cooked together, sewed together, grocery shopped together, ate together, worked out together...you name it. She was there when times were tough and I will never forget her even when we are states apart....
Anyway, it was amazing to be able to see her after more than 5 years. I got to meet her children whom I had never seen in person and reconnect with her and Shad. I tried my first fish tacos with her this trip and am in love (I can't believe I have never had them...yum!). Thanks for your generosity and for letting me spend a few days with you Liz! (We didn't really take pictures together...big bummer...and the one that I DO have is pretty awful...so I will just let the good times live on in my mind).

E's Blessing

2009-09-27T13:32:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been wonderful. Not only did we have both sets of parents here, but we also had some of our siblings to share in the experience of E's blessing at church. I made E's little dress...so of course, it was even more fun to show her off...but we just think she is a doll (dress or no dress). She is such a pleasant and happy baby. She is a joy to have in our home.

M Starts Kindergarten!!!

2009-08-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that M is old enough to start kindergarten. He has been ready for it for a year or two but maybe I am not ready for it. This is actually the first time I think I have felt like an adult, EVER. I mean, anyone can manage to be married, have a job...even have a few kids...but adults have children in school. Adults get up early every morning and drag sleeping children from their beds (at 6:40 am) and dress them while still sleeping. Adults urge each and every bite into that same sleeping child's mouth and "encourage" them to brush faster and get into the car. Only adults pretend to be awake and happy to take their child to school at such an early hour so that their child will know they too are pumped for a day of fun and learning...
I digress...
M loves school as we hoped he would. On the first day, he didn't even look back. No, no, he was not one of the crying children clinging to his parent's leg or sitting on his teacher's lap for comfort. He just gave a big smile, found his spot on the carpet and turned his beautiful blue eyes to the front of the room, with sponge-like enthusiasm, ready to learn all that his teacher could throw at him.
He is so smart and capable and pure. I think that has been our biggest concern about this school year. We knew that starting school meant letting go and relinquishing the control of the "bubble" we have created for the past 5 years. He is such a good boy...just a genuinely good boy. He does not think about breaking the rules, he doesn't want to hurt anyone's feelings, he wants to please others and be helpful. So, all we can do now is keep our fingers crossed and be there to hear all of his excitement and know that he knows what's right and he will continue to be the boy we know he is.

Birthdays for the B-Man

2009-08-11T12:52:00.000-07:00

So, B turned 3...I can't believe it. He requested a bug party. It was lots of fun. We played all kinds of bug games like cocoon (where you form teams and see who can wrap their caterpillar in a cocoon/aka toilet paper, the fastest), exterminator (like freeze tag but the it person sprays kids with a spray bottle of water), bug memory, hot spider (ok, so basically hot potato), beat the bug (pinata), blah blah blah. It was lots of fun and ended with yummy spider cupcakes (as a friendly aside - NO ONE likes black licorice...so don't bother going to multiple stores to locate black licorice laces just to give your spider black legs...just make them red).

Also, (this is only for my memory) B has a thing for older women. When we talked about his birthday party...beginning in May when we were planing M's party...he wanted to make his guest list. The only problem was that all of the invitees were girls ages 5-10. I had to strongly encourage him to invite boys his own age and he eventually agreed that it might be fun to have them along with the girls.

As most 3 year olds, he was most happy about the presents. I am working on this with him, but let's be honest...everyone loves the presents...we just learn not to say it out loud at some point.

B is a wonderful little boy. He is as charismatic as anyone I know already and can work a crowd if he feels like it. He rivals me in ability to eat unusually large quantities of food and requests food in a semi-conscious state around 7 am EVERY morning of the week. He is my little cuddle bug and almost always agrees to snuggle with me on the couch or give me a big squeeze when I need one. He is a great brother and playmate for M and E. He is surprisingly gentle and attentive with E and has really won her over quickly. He is the biggest toughie in the room until any kind of dog or cat arrives on the scene and then he claws his way up the nearest adult. He can be the sweetest thing around and the biggest stinker all in one day. We love him so much and are happy to have him in our family.

Genetically Blessed

2009-08-10T06:20:00.000-07:00

So normally I focus on my own family and how wonderful, handsome/beautiful and talented they are. In this case...I just wanted to share a pic of my friend's daughter (disregard the slight boogie-nose...cold season, ya know). Can you even believe how adorable she is? Ok, that's all...just wanted to post her cuteness (and don't worry, I asked her mom already).

Mediocre is better than what I've got going on here

2009-08-01T12:42:00.000-07:00

SO, I started blogging thinking that I would be mediocre at best at doing it but better than I am at journaling. I guess I was being optimistic. SO, I going to try to get current in the near future starting today...I mean, starting from the beach post you have been looking at for the past 6 months (not that anyone is even bothering to check the blog anymore because it is never updated).

Heaven on Earth

2009-07-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

I am now convinced that Pensacola, Florida is heaven on earth! My Dad sent all the girls there for a week of pure relaxation and beauty...with no kids (except for Eme...but she doesn't really count). I am quite convinced that all are deserving of such a treat...and I feel lucky to have experienced it firsthand. We arrived on a Sunday night and basked in the glorious sun for a whole week...sugary white sand, the perfect temperature water...truly refreshing, hot, but not too hot, just enough estrogen and no boys (don't get me wrong...I do love men, Marc in particular, but it is nice to have an "appreciation" week once in awhile). Unfortunately for Eme, she will now haunted by the gorgeous beach in Pensacola...so she is not likely to take too kindly to the reality of beaches in TX.
We mostly just relaxed...slept when we wanted, ate when and what we wanted (including a 3 lb bag of snickers and twix, yum), watched chick flicks and reality tv, got massages, worked out, and went on a little shopping expedition. So now you understand...a little piece of heaven just for me. THANKS DAD!!

Going to the big D...and I DO mean Dallas

2009-07-25T12:32:00.000-07:00

The boys headed to Dallas for a week of fun in the sun with the cousins while Eme and I went on our very own girls' trip. They had tons of fun thanks to their Aunts and cousins there. They did lots of playing, swam, went to Marc's bike race, and apparently...played dress up with some very freaky wigs. Ahh, the memories. So thanks Amy and Carin for taking care of my boys...all 3 of them!

Hemptead Watermelon Festival

2009-07-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

My love of watermelons is no secret. Let the record now show that this love does not extend to any watermelon festival...especially those held in Texas in any month that has an average temperature of 100 degrees.
Unsuspecting as I was, I packed up my three little watermelon eaters and we drove down to my parents' house as it is only 1/2 hour away from said watermelon festival. Some of our Austin friends came along for the joyous experience. We awoke early and had a hurried breakfast so as not to miss all of the festivities. We arrived around 10 and the temperature was no less than 95 degrees (unless you happened to be in the shade in front of one of those huge outdoor fans...which we weren't). So, we went for the opening ceremonies (were we found a shade tree)...which really means that they are going to let the scouts put up the flags and then we'll watch to see who would be crowned 2009/2010 Watermelon Little Miss, Watermelon Junior Miss, Watermelon Court, Watermelon Little Prince, Watermelon Queen, etc...you get the picture. (I don't get pageants...although highly entertaining...and I certainly don't get these things)
So then we ventured out into the blistering heat to find the petting zoo. Now, this town is not quaint with tree-lined streets...so we were walking in temps. well over 100. I felt frantic and wasn't sure we would make it alive (not to mention the fact that I had Eme stripped down like a white trash baby in just her diaper, convinced that her insides were turning into smoked sausages). After petting many cute little animals (including a couple kangaroos...impressive, even to me) we headed for the only place we could see that promised relief...McDonalds! Yes, I have NEVER been so happy to see the Golden Arches in my life.
I believe this was the first time my Dad has ever eaten at McDonalds...they are right up there on his list with WalMart...so you know the situation must have been dire. We stayed in Micky D's for over an hour, savoring every moment of air-conditioned bliss and decided we needed to hurry if we were going to make the Watermelon judging and auction.
Now, I'm pretty much finished with the story except to say that we had to confiscate my Dad's paddle after he dropped over $300 on watermelons (he did get a couple of the first-in-class watermelons, including the beauty of a black diamond pictured above).

Trip to Kentucky and...Pee Pee in the Potty

2009-07-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

Although Jim and Kim were not able to be in town when Eme was born, we were fortunate enough to take a trip out to Kentucky to visit and introduce them to the newest member of our family. It was a fabulous trip...the kids traveled like old pros. A few passengers admitted (at the end of the flight) that they had been a little nervous when they saw that they were seated in our area of the plane (could it have been that they saw the boys racing up and down the terminal and playing squirrel underneath the seats at the gate area???)...but they were pleasantly surprised at what great travelers they all were. Lesson learned: If you bring enough movies, fruit snacks and M&Ms...all things are possible.
It all seems like a blur...but we pretty much had a great week. Lots of playing and good food. The boys raided grandma's toy closet and developed a quick love for all things star wars (she had all of Marc's S.W. figures from his childhood). We went out on the boat and even got to stop at a restaurant. It is like a drive thru...but way more glamorous and you actually park and go in. The boys worked on their slip n' slide skills, raced around the pond and played chef in the hot tub (LOL...isn't that what everyone does in the hot tub?).
The other huge development of the week was that B decided he wanted to wear big boy underwear and go pee pee in the potty. I thought I would wait until M started kindergarten to tackle that beast...but when your 2 yr old says he wants to, you just don't argue. So, he did pretty well...much better than I thought and we rushed out and got him his very own underwear...of which he was VERY proud!

4th of July

2009-07-05T19:07:00.000-07:00

The 4th ended up being a regular ole' party around our house this year. We had Amy, Eric and their kids and my parents, Julie and Jimmy and Adam all over for the weekend. It was great fun. We had dinner the night they arrived followed by cousin fun to last a lifetime. The kids also gave Uncle Adam his fair share of "love" and I am sure he was happy to be back at his bachelor pad by the time they were all done with him.
The morning of the 4th, I sent everyone to Hamilton Pool...it is pretty much the coolest swimming hole in Texas (that's what they tell me anyway). They all enjoyed it and avoided death by drowning and water moccasins, too...so that is always a plus.
That night we had a BBQ and did some mediocre (at best) fireworks...but the kiddos didn't seem disappointed at all.
I am so glad that everyone decided to spend the holiday weekend with us and it just confirms how great it is to live so close to family!

Three little buddies...

2009-06-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

It is even more wonderful than I imagined. These three little kids are such great buddies and are so cute. I love watching them with each other. The two big brothers are so eager to help and talk to their sis. If I need anything for the baby, they race to help. I feel so blessed!

NEW BED!!

2009-06-18T18:53:00.000-07:00

So Eme "brought" the boys a new bed. They were so excited, "Yes mommy, we want a bunk bed. We are so excited!!"
Um, yeah...me too. Now remind me...what are you going to do with your new bed???

Love at First Sight

2009-06-14T19:55:00.000-07:00

Emersen Marie was born at 2:22 pm on Tuesday, June 9th and it was definitely love at first sight. She is so sweet and a perfect baby so far. The boys love her and always ask where "baby" is. I am feeling ok...as well as can be expected for 5 days after a c-section. So, I am just riding the baby euphoria wave and loving it.

One of the Happiest Moments of my Life...and no, I haven't had the Baby

2009-06-07T07:18:00.001-07:00

The other day I was walking out in the yard, watering the garden when I looked down and saw the most beautiful sight in the world. Most anyone who might read this post knows my first love, as far as food goes, is watermelon. I planted watermelon with a warning from all local gardeners that I wasn't likely to have much luck. Well, I might not have as much luck in getting babies to come out...but I am extremely proud and excited to announce that I am the proud momma of 4 baby watermelons. I just can't wait until they are big enough to cut open and eat every delightful bite of goodness within.

(pictures to follow soon)

It's all fun and games until...

2009-06-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

someone knocks over two cups of Easter egg dye. This was possibly one of the funniest "traumatic" events that I have witnessed. We were at my parent's house for Easter along with my older bro and his fam and my younger bro. We were having a great time, dying eggs...a few dye drips here and there...but I had a feeling it was only a matter of time. When the cups went over, all of the adults jumped into action. We quickly ran out of paper towels so I decided to go grab more. When I got back to the scene I decided that 2 seconds to snap a commemorative shot would be well worth it. So, I am happy to have documented the drama...and with the help of comet and bleach products, all of the dye came out of my mom's grout (thank goodness!!).

We had such a great time and were relieved that the Easter bunny found us out in the sticks. Thanks for the good times Dad and Mom!!

Big Momma

2009-05-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

I have reached that point in the pregnancy where I would no longer consider myself a cute pregnant lady. You know what I mean...I am officially retaining water, getting puffy, tripling my chins and getting the nose spread (and I am not posting the picture to have everyone comment that it isn't true...). I'm okay with it. It is somehow a way to say that the end is near. The important thing is that I still feel good and I love being prego. Sure, it would be sweet to be one of "those girls" who looks tiny and so cute and stylish the whole time...but that is not in the cards for me and...let's be real honest...I am not sure they make that cute of clothes for the size I am and I definitely don't want to go buy more clothes that might make me depressed to look at next time I get prego (if there is a next time...because they will be a reminder of the largeness to come).

SO I am embracing the waddle and the acrobatics going on inside my big ole belly and just marvel that a real person is in there just waiting for her debut. So, stay tuned...hopefully we will have some good news in the next month or so!

9 YEARS!!!

2009-04-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, M and I celebrated 9 years of wedded bliss. Wow...that is pure craziness. It somehow makes me feel older than having an almost-5-yr old.

So, I am sure that neither he nor I would say that every moment has been easy...but I was just thinking that that means that we are a marriage success story. I appreciate him for all of the things he has taught me and all of the ways he has helped me grow. I am certainly a different woman than I was nine years ago. I was thinking about the change in my feelings of love for him...it definitely went from a naive, giddy 21 year old kind of love to a love full of respect and thankfulness for all he does for me and our family and the sacrifices that are so hard for many men to make...plus it helps that he is still hot!

I am sure that no one else needs to hear this...but thanks for all you do babe! I love you!

Insta-family...just add water

2009-04-27T18:20:00.000-07:00

So my sister-in-law and her hubby got to go on a sweet cruise over the past week...and we got to watch their two adorable kiddos. They pulled into town on Saturday and then Amy and Eric flew out on Sunday. I am pretty sure this is the formula for heaven as far as my kids are concerned...a week with built-in playmates 24/7.

We spent the week just living it up and fitting in as much play time as you can imagine. We went to free scoop day at Ben and Jerry's (probably the highlight of the week for me...lol), went to the park, played at a friends' house, watched some other kids, went to the pool and many more super great things. I think we wore out poor H and A. By Wednesday H was asking me if we could go back to the house and then proceeded to fall soundly asleep on the couch with her brother practically on top of her.

After a couple days into the experience I thought, "Wow, I'm pretty tired...maybe I couldn't handle four kids". H kept saying "Is it a lot of work to take care of 4 kids?" It made me smile and think "YES!!" I admire all the mothers out there who do it all the time...but I also realized that it was like having two sets of twins since the kids are only months apart. So, I came away from the week feeling like I was an okay parent because I didn't make anyone cry (well okay, I think I make my kids cry every day...but it is because I only let them have one gogurt or something equally traumatizing) AND there was no physical abuse or blood/emergency room runs...not even a single band aid!

My Latest Project

2009-04-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

Something is in the air...call it Spring, call it baby countdown...but lately, I just want to make things. From baking to scrapbooking/cardmaking and sewing I can't seem to find enough time to satiate the creative cravings I have. Now mind you, I am not saying that all (or any) of these projects are noteworthy...but they are satisfying to me.
My latest project began when my dear friend gave me a thoughtful birthday gift. I have been wanting to make a car seat cover for my infant carrier (not that it is necessary, but because I just felt like it would be fun) but haven't been able to find a pattern. Now, I'm not necesarily saying that I am lazy...but I might not have ever gotten around to this project if she had not lit a fire under me by getting me a pattern and some fabric. So, about a month ago I finished the actual seat cover. The only problem was that the pattern did not come with a pattern to cover the hood.
I would not call myself a skilled seamstress...so the thought of making my own hood cover with no pattern almost made me feel nauseous; but, I finally picked out some fabric, got out my seam ripper and got to work.
I am pleasantly pleased with the finished product and I actually feel like the hood turned out better than the cover. So there...I am finished tooting my own horn...but it sure did feel good.

Cousins!!

2009-03-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

Oh how we love cousins! Marc's sis, Carin, and family came down to spent part of their spring break with us. They have not been to visit us in Austin yet, so we were excited to show them around and play. We packed in as much fun as we can and hope that it was enough to entice them back to visit sometime in the near future.
The night they got here we ventured to Congress Bridge to watch the nightly exodus of over 1.5 million bats on their quest for insect paradise. It is a little early in the season, but we did see tons of bats.
The next day everyone headed down to LBJ lake to canoe and picnic at the park. We then hiked up over a hundred steps to the top of Mt. Bonnell to check out the views. We hit a favorite restaurant and had lots of fun play time at home. It is so nice to be able to see our cousins more than once a year...yet one more of the many benefits of living in Austin!!

A Green Thumb

2009-03-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

So, I am not sure that I've noticed the skin on any of my appendages tinged green...but I have to say that my new pride and joy is our garden. My parents, the gardening EXPERTS, came down for one of M's soccer games and we spent Saturday morning putting in our first real garden. There is just something so gratifying when you plant the seed and water and just hope that something will survive...and then you see those first little buds popping out of the soil (sounds kind of like a parenthood parable).
It has been so fun to do with the boys. Throughout the whole process they were right in there, making the boxes, mixing the soil and fertilizer and planting the seeds. Every day M and B want to help water the garden and every day M runs out to see if anything new is coming up. We should start chowing on some of the goods in another month. SO, if you have a hankering for a delicious salad...come on over!

Sea World

2009-03-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

We took the opportunity to take Grandma and Grandpa to Sea World during their weekend visit. B has been telling everyone for weeks that we were going; so of course, the grandparents did not want to disappoint (plus we like to use our season passes whenever we can). It was everything the boys could have hoped for. From the Shamu show to the 4D movie and popcorn...the day was perfect.
I take special pleasure in going to a public place that isn't totally packed. I know that our days of having the park to ourselves are numbered and that, with the opening of the water park section next month, we will have to share with all the crazy Texans trying to get some reprieve from the heat...but we will just enjoy it while we can!!

Do you know the muffin man?

2009-02-28T13:48:00.000-08:00

Here's the scenario...I am in the kitchen...ready to begin some kind of baking adventure. When suddenly I hear the crash of toys being dropped and the pitter patter of little feet...running to the kitchen...a chair being dragged across the tile floor and "I want to cook!" coming from my littlest chef. Usually this happens when I turn on the mixer...but often, as though using a 6th sense, B runs in to find me assembling the ingredients. I love it!

30...it's really not so bad

2009-02-21T19:12:00.000-08:00

So, I just turned 30...and I'm here to say that it's really not bad. I wasn't worried about it but it seems like most people are really doom and gloom about the big 3-0. I started the morning off at the gym and then headed in for a quick eye brow wax...got home for breakfast and then over to coach a soccer game. When we got home, we just did the normal lunch, B nap, afternoon things and then got ready for my date with Marc. We planned to go to this Italian restaurant I have been wanting to try.
So, we took the kids over to my good friend's house and Marc thought it would be good for me to help him "deposit" the kids because they "are better for me". Clueless as I am, I walked right into the middle of a well-planned surprise party. Marc worked on it for weeks, sending emails to coordinate hidden parking, food, good friends, pinata, a slide show and the perfect gift (I've been drooling over a Cricut Expression for months). Thanks to everyone for making it great!

Coach Strong

2009-02-15T16:21:00.000-08:00

We have officially come to the "beginning of the end" of parenting and signed M up for soccer. All of his little buddies were playing and you can request to get your kid on the same team as their friends...so we took the sports plunge. He seems to love it (actually, I think he just loves running...and if the ball comes with it, so be it).
When we signed him up, they were looking for coaches and had a spot on the page to volunteer to be a coach. In my "condition", I figured I would sit this season out but Marc asked me why I didn't just coach his team. I figured that (with just three days before the parents' meeting) they would already have a coach but decided to call anyway. They took my info and said they would get back to me so I figured I was in the clear until the next day when I got my first phone call from a parent asking me for info on when our team was going to practice, where, etc. I said, "Oh, so am I the coach?" Apparently I am, they just forgot to tell me.
So, it has been lots of fun. I enjoy working with the kids and it reminds me of my old day job a little bit. We are still in the young league where there is no score-keeping and the coach is on the field, running around with the team throughout the game. I feel like a bit of a spectacle...big momma on field #2...but it keeps me busy...and I count the game as my workout for the day.

BRING ON THE PINK!!

2009-01-24T20:00:00.000-08:00

It's a girl...enough said!!

WHAT'S UP WITH THAT??

2009-01-21T19:36:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I am admitting this on the WWW...I am not so good on technology. I want to say that it is genetically inherited from Mom (I still love you though)...but maybe it also comes from a lack of care. I only care when I can't figure out how to do something I want to do.
For instance, I have spent the past two days trying to post pics on the blog...and it isn't letting me. So, I just get more annoyed and think of other things I can't figure out...like how all of the rest of you make and change your blog backgrounds to all of the super-cute background all the time. Yeah, I've been to the "free blog background websites" but I am either too technologically challenged, or not patient enough to read it more than once...maybe both.
Ok, I've said my piece.

Christmas down on the "Ranch"

2009-01-20T11:49:00.000-08:00

After a great weekend with Marc's fam, we mosied on down to my parents' for Christmas. The boys were so excited to get Uncle Adam and new Uncle Jimmy all to themselves...something about those uncles...they can't get enough.

We enjoyed many nights of caroling...a Hrnicirik family tradition (although apparently we missed the "good" nights). I think even Marc enjoys it now. M was definitely the star this year (sorry Jimmy, maybe you will can practice and be it next year). He stood in front, often holding the goody, singing and dancing to songs...ones he was still learning the lyrics. But he sang out loud and proud...oh to be 4 again!

As usual, we got way too much from a very generous Santa and all had a grand time full of food, fun, love and controlled chaos.

The boys, but B in particular pretty much lived on "tWeats". Ahh...good ole' grandma's house...with goodies in little trays and bowls everywhere. If B wasn't eating dinner, grandma just sprinkled it with reeses pieces, of course. As you might imagine, we have spent the past month trying to undo the treat bonanza. B wakes up and asks for "tweats" right away. I figured that if he was going to be asking so much, we should work on the pronunciation. So, Marc and I worked with him. Say "R". Say "rabbit". Ok, say "tReat". So now it is, "Mommy, I want a Rrrabbit, tweat." Nice try.

Pre-Christmas Festivities

2009-01-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

So...I realize that it is nearing the end of January...but rather than skip all that I have missed, I will just touch on some highlights.

The week before Christmas, Marc's parents, sis and her kids came to visit. Nothing can be better than guests! We had a blast. I think M and B wish their cousins could just move in. We did all kinds of fun things from touring the festival of lights to dancing with Grandpa in the living room. Thanks for coming and for all the great memories!!

The night before they left we had a mini family Christmas and exchanged all of the gifts with each other. This experience really re-confirmed my philosophy on children and gifts...the first one or two are AMAZING, EXCITING...and totally sufficient. Do kids really need a million gifts? I am likely just a mean person, but I say, "NO!"

Pan and Hook

2008-11-02T20:06:00.000-08:00

So, of course, I realize I might be a little biased...but I am pretty sure my boys were the cutest Peter Pan and Captain Hook in all of Halloween-dom. About two weeks before Halloween, I realized I was going to have to pony up and figure out the costume situation. So, I asked the boys what they wanted to be. It was decided, pretty immediately I might add, that they both wanted to be Peter Pan (Beckett decided after he heard Mackay decide). So, all week, I tried to persuade one of them to be Captain Hook. Mackay got weepy and said, "No, I want to be Pan because I want to fly." Can't argue with that...fine...but Beckett wasn't going to budge either. 2 Pans it is.

Then, with Halloween one week out, on our way to the fabric store (because there are NO Pan or Hook costumes in the stores around here), Beckett decides he wants to be Captain Hook. Sweet... The costumes didn't turn out super-fabulous. But, for a first time costume maker and novice sewer...I think they turned out pretty cute. Regardless of the quality, the boys were so happy. Unfortunately we forgot to have Hook wear his hook for any of the pictures or for trick-or-treating. In fact, we got home that night and I discovered the hook under the kitchen table...bummer...but no biggie.

Toward the end of our evening, Mackay was running ahead to the next door and I called back to my sucker-eating 2 yr old, "Come on my little pirate." To which he responded, "No mom, Captain Hook."

Wedding Receptions and the Emergency Room

2008-10-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

These are not things you would usually put into the same 48 hours...but that is how we roll around here. So, this weekend we drove down to Houston for Julie and Jimmy's wedding reception. We arrived on Friday and took the opportunity to have a weenie roast (can't ever have too many of those). So, we are sitting there having a gay ole' time, getting eaten by mosquitos, eating our weight in hot dogs and smores when I got two bites on the back of my leg. Mind you, my mom had just doused my legs in bug spray, and the sting was like that of a mosquito on crack...I didn't think much of it, cursed the darn bugs under my breath, and reached for the bug spray again. Then I felt a third bite...and shook my leg, sprayed it again and sat down to eat another smores (can't stop at just one).
Within about a minute I started feeling a little funny...nauceous, light headed, etc. So, I decided to move to a log a little further from the huge fire. I got there and my heart started racing and I slid onto the ground. My sis reached over and said that I felt really clamy. So, I looked at Marc, who was totally unconcerned at my distress...roasting a sausage for my mom, and said that something was wrong and that I needed to go inside.
So, he started helping me and we made it a few steps when I told him that I thought I might pass out (I am sure he just thought I was being dramatic) and proceeded to do so in the very next step. So, I woke up shortly thereafter being carried, scout style by Marc and Jimmy (bless the new brother -in-law...and WELCOME to the family) with my shirt up around my boobs and wondering why they were running and why everything was shaking. Marc said, "just stay concious", which, we decided after talking about it, is hilarious- as if you can help it - but it is the thing they always say on the movies...so it must work, right!?
So we get into the house and they lay me on the couch (meanwhile I feel like I am on some weird movie where I am blinking and looking around as if I am not actually the one having the drama). So they had me flat, and I feel like I am going to pass out and hurl all at the same time, so I asked them to elevate my head. My hands and feet were so itchy and I started to loose the feeling/ability to move my arms and legs. My mom got her nurse friend on the phone and I was trying to tell them all of my symptoms in case I passed out again. Then my throat and tongue started to swell...this is when it was decided that we mosey on down to the ER. SO, I popped two benedryl and we took off. (Since my parents live out in the sticks, where GPS systems stop about a half mile from their house, we opted out of the ambulance...which I am really thankful for in retrospect.)
The drive to the hospital seemed eternal. My eyes were watering like crazy but I couldn't make my hands connect with my face in a gentle manner...so I felt like and invalid getting my eyes wiped every minute or two. We got right into triage and the benedryl had started working by that time...so in true ER fashion we got to hang out in the waiting room for an hour. We were then admitted and asked really smart questions like, "Did you catch the thing that bit you?" After a few rounds of steroids and some anti-nausea drugs...I was monitored for a few hours and that was that. So, recovery has been rough..., it was no big deal but I feel like I got hit by a small bus...it makes me feel old. I don't know what is up but I can't seem to get my energy back. Probably doesn't help that we did wedding reception stuff the whole next day and have been busy teaching preschool and having guests this week already.
So, on Saturday...we mainly got ready for the reception. It was beautiful. My parents really outdid themselves on this one. Their backyard was perfect, the decorations were so cute and fall-y, the food was divine and the music and DJ were great and totally uncorny.
Julie did have a dress issue...um...the dry cleaners RUINED her dress. I am talking shrunken (t-length anyone?) so that she couldn't zip it and changed the look and texture of the fabric. (So, any of you law saavy people out there...we need suggestions.) She was a great sport and we just ended up sewing her into it.
SO, another fun and eventful weekend has passed away, TEXAS STYLE. And I will just leave you with the best advice I received on the hospital discharge form, "Avoid being bitten or stung again."

Sister of the Bride...

2008-10-09T20:01:00.000-07:00

SO, my beautiful and talented sister, Julie, got married to Jimmy N. last weekend. She was beautiful, hot, sexy and classy all rolled into one. The wedding ceremony was lovely. The man that officiated had a hard time keeping back the tears because there was such a sweet feeling there and watching Julie weep just made everyone (ok, ok, so at least my mom and me) cry too. They were so smart about the wedding...3 pm was almost a perfect wedding time...don't have to get up too early, plenty of time to eat at least one meal, etc. Then, they took most of their "bridals" a few weeks before the wedding so we didn't have to do pictures for five hours afterward. It was wonderful. Then we headed to chow (one of my favorite parts, of course) and enjoy the evening reception.
Here's to you, Julie and Jimmy...may you have many happy times together! Love ya!

My Boys...

2008-09-28T14:39:00.001-07:00

I just love my boys. I can't get enough. They do hilarious things that keep life light. Mackay is truly so sweet. He is a good boy and tries to do what is right. Since we moved, he has been talking to me a lot about his own house and his "mommy" (wife) when he gets bigger. His latest pick is this cute girl from preschool, Kelly. I asked why he chose her and he told me that it was because she was nice and fun and pretty. AND he decided that Beckett would be their baby.
Beckett has this talent to make you love him. He gives you this "you know I am cute" look and it takes away all ability to be angry at him for purposefully dumping out a whole cup of milk or crushing a lego structure it took an hour to construct (ahhh...two year olds).
I was thinking about them at church today and how I am so lucky to be their mom. So, yeah, sometimes I want to cause them bodily harm...but I can't imagine life without them. Hopefully I won't mess them up too much and they will still like me when they are teenagers...or at least by the time they are 30 or so.

Konecne

2008-09-05T19:36:00.000-07:00

So, "konecne" is one of my favorite Czech words...it is one of those things that I think sounds so much better and really gets the point across better than the same word in English. It means "FINALLY" - so I guess I just like the sound of it better.
After what seemed like nearly an eternity...we bought a house and are working on getting settled. It is so much more fun than I even imagined it. Unpacking has been exciting! I know we had a place in DC...but it is hard to call 819 sq. ft. a house. I know I am such a girl about this...but I get excited just thinking of all the fun possibilities for the house.
This week we have two major outdoor projects going. We had some of our property behind our rear fence line, so we had the fence redone to include most of that and added another 9 feet deep to the back. We hired out for that one and the guy did an awesome job and finished it yesterday.
Our other project is "THE DECK". Now, I didn't realize really how laborious building a deck could be...but after two full days of construction, I am just really thankful for two things. First, my awesome in-laws are such troopers and have luckily built a deck or two in their lives. And second, I am happy to be in relatively good shape. Let's just say that hauling wood from the driveway, without a wheelbarrow or any other assistance, for hours at a time ends up being really tiring!!
At any rate, the boys love their back yard and we are so happy to have one...konecne!!

Beckett is 2!!

2008-09-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

Can you believe my baby boy is two? I know I can't. Beckett is such a joy to our home. He is stringing words together to form nearly comprehensible sentences and has added words like "actually" and "dinosaur" to his ever-growing repertoire. As a mother, I was so proud of his first two-syllable word, "broccoli" and am amazed by how quickly children learn at this stage.
He has pretty much given up his binky...which is good and bad. It will make the dentist happy, but has complicated things when it comes to nap and bedtime (the only times he was allowed to have the bink).
Beckett is really our little stinker. I truly think he does things for the reaction about 95% of the time. He has started to give these really painful "bite" kisses. You think he is being really sweet, coming at you with one of those famous, toddler open-mouthed kisses, and the next thing you know, he has totally bitten your lips. It really hurts big time...so grandmas and unsuspecting friends...BEWARE!!
He is our little night owl and would go all night long if we'd let him. He puts up quite the fight and we are hoping that his iron will will also be used for good later in life. It is all about the smack down around here. We are constantly having to show him "who's boss"...it's usually us...
Beckett has the best sense of humor and loves to make us laugh. Mackay can't get enough of him and Beckett misses "brother/Kaizer" when he is at preschool. I can't wait to see what he ends up doing when he is older...but I am thinking something like a Navy Seal or a WWF Wrestler...it's a toss up.

TRIATHLON FEVER

2008-09-05T19:22:00.000-07:00

I officially have a fever...and the only cure is a little more cowbell...and another triathlon or two. I completed my first sprint triathlon and loved it. I think it requires the perfect blend of strength and endurance training. At first, I was mostly just afraid I would drown...but I am even beginning to enjoy the swim (even though I was almost the last one out of the water).
So, I am hoping to do another mini in a few months and would like to do an Olympic distance tri sometime next year. Anyone want to come to Austin and join me??

4th of July

2008-07-11T17:54:00.000-07:00

We had a great 4th of July weekend. Of course it is always nice when Marc has a day off to play; but it is even better when we get visitors...and we got both. Marc's sister and her family came down to Austin from Dallas for the festivities. Our kids are the same age and really get along famously. So we did a lot of pool time, a big BBQ with some other local friends and even tried our hand at canoing. We all loved it - minus Beckett...he screamed the whole time because he hated his life jacket...needless to say he may or may not have ruined the experience for many within earshot of his screeching (we still love him). As you can see by the photo...the only time he stopped crying is when he started eating the stale hot dog buns we were feeding the swans.
I have decided that I officially love to have visitors. I am not sure if it is just because I love to entertain...or if it justifies making large batches of cookies and other goodies - for the guests, of course!! So for anyone looking for a cheap and fun vacation, Austin is your place. We would love to put you up and show you a good time!

Nothing like a little barf to start the day off right

2008-06-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

Okay so you know how there are those days that make you cry until they are over....and then you just have to laugh...that was Sunday for us. Marc and I were supposed to be speaking in church so, of course, I was totally nervous and planned to read over my talk a few times before I "went on".
So, we are sitting there and Beckett and Mackay were vying for the same toy (big surprise...I am just going to start buying two of everything) and I scolded Beckett and told him to wait his turn. Anyway, they had just start passing the sacrament and Beckett starts barfing. I caught the first wave in my hands...and people all around start passing kleenex, napkins and wipe. But Beckett promptly barfed again and again...so Marc looks at me and says, "What should I do?" My response seemed pretty obvious to me, "GET HIM OUT OF HERE!!" (said in a desperate whisper) So, Marc scoops up Beckett trying to maximize the amount of vomit contained on his lap, while I walk behind them with barf sloshing out of my hands all over the pew and floor to the nearest bathroom.
Within seconds there are people rushing to our aide. A few of our "pew mates" got a bottle of disinfectant, a brush and a roll of paper towels to work on the chapel while another lady came and washed out Beckett's clothes so I could comfort him. We got him all cleaned up and calmed down just in time to speak. Then another friend came to help watch the boys so we could speak.
Needless to say, the vomit did not help me prepare to speak, and I felt more overwhelmed and nervous than I ever could have imagined. So, I pretty much started to loose it at the beginning, somehow reeled it in and eventually my voice stabilized and I stopped sounding like a goat.
So, alls well that ends well...although I did have a friend come up and rub my stomach and smile "knowingly" later that day (I would totally be fine with that - IF I was prego)...so that didn't help the ego for the day...but I guess it happens to everyone at some point in their lives.

Like a little fishy...

2008-06-13T12:05:00.000-07:00

So Mackay has decided to learn how to swim. Cautious child that he is, we could not convince him to just let go and try it. He swims wonderfully with floaties...and I must admit that I have been secretly putting less and less air in them to see if he was just using them as a crutch (good mom...i know). So, two days ago, we were at the pool and he just started putting his face in the water (unheard of for him). By the end of that hour he was trying to swim with his whole face underwater without floaties. Yesterday he didn't even bother with his floaties and spent two hours swimming around, diving down to the bottom (of the shallow end) to retrieve things, etc...so I think it is safe to say that he is swimming like a fish and loving it!! I tried to explain it to Marc and that I pretty much didn't even have to watch him anymore (I didn't mean that I would leave him alone in the pool...only that I feel like, after watching him closely for an hour, I am not AS worried that he will drown - and let's be real honest here...Mackay is tall enough to touch the bottom of the pool!!), but Marc just raised his eyebrows at me and now thinks I am just neglectful...just wait Marc, you will see the super-fishy skills of your first born!!
This is just another testament that despite my "amazing" and "encouraging" mothering skills...my children will likely do things as they decide, when they decide and HOW they decide to do them. I guess I should just stop being surprised when this happens....

A Great Man

2008-06-10T18:30:00.000-07:00

This morning the world lost an amazing, caring and brilliant man -my grandfather, Glen H. Walker. He truly touched all he encountered and brought a little smile and a chuckle to all who were lucky enough to listen to his infamous stories and jokes. A spiritual giant and humble intellectual...I never heard him say a bad word about another person. True to his nickname, "Angel", he made everyone want to improve and step up to be their best self. I am pretty sure I can speak for all who know Grandpa when I say that I am thankful to have spent even a small moment of time with someone as fabulous as him and I can't wait to see him again one day. I love you Grandpa Walker.

I've been tagged

2008-06-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

So Heather tagged me awhile ago and I didn't respond since I didn't want to "pollute" our family blog...so, here it goes.

What were you doing five years ago?
I was just finishing up my first year teaching at Poe Middle School...was exiting "the rough years" and embarking on a summer of travel and weddings.

What were you doing ten years ago?
I just finished my first year at "the Y" and was ready to get outta there...so, I was getting ready to move over to the Czech Republic.

5 things on you're "to do" list today
1. Make a peach cobbler for Marc's birthday today.
2. Go visit someone in the hospital.
3. Make thank you cards for the swap on Thurs.
4. Find mixer games for the RS Pool Party on Wed.
5. Call a prego.

Snacks you enjoy
Um...for a minute I thought that it said "snack" and I started to panic...I cannot narrow down my love of food to one item...so the top things are watermelon, ice cream, summer squash, hummus, chocolate chip cookies and brownies, salad, hot dogs with cheese (gross...I know), pretty much all food except really fishy fish and internal organs of any kind.

5 places you have lived
V-town (Visalia), CA; Huntington Beach, CA; Palm Dessert; CA, Alexandria, VA; Austin, TX

5 jobs you've had
Librarian, Zuka Juice Technician, Movie Ticket Sales Associate, Preschool Teacher, Middle School Spanish Teacher

If I were suddenly a billionaire I would...
Have a summer home on Maui, invest most of it and live off interest, buy a sweet house with an awesome kitchen and backyard...be really generous to my friends and family.

5 things people might not know about me.
1. I sweat like a man.
2. I love having a huge prego belly.
3. I love to grocery shop.
4. I want to go to hair school.
5. I am really self conscious.

So, that is me in a few questions. Now I want to tag Lizzie, Aryn, Dani, Mary Ann and Amy G.

Coming home to Sheila...

2008-06-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

So, you may (or may not) be familiar with Napoleon Dynamite...but this is the kind of movie that comes to mind occasionally when I think about life (that tells you a lot about me...as if you didn't already know). SO, today is Marc's birthday...HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABE!! and I was thinking how amazing he is and how lucky I am to have him. So, I thought about the part in the movie where that Judo guy says the line about having to "come home to Sheila" and am pretty sure that there are many women who are probably jealous that I get go come home to Marc (sorry ladies...he is taken). So yeah, Marc - thanks for all you do for me and our family. You are amazing as a husband, father and man. I couldn't ask for anything more! Lubba!

Okay, okay already...

2008-05-31T15:38:00.000-07:00

So, I fought this for a long time but have decided to jump into whatever century this is and attempt to use this blog as my journal/communication with friends/free therapy, etc. I do not now, and will never, profess to be an eloquent writer or grammatical genius...but will always share my thoughts and experiences as candidly as you might expect if we were having a conversation...READERS BEWARE! :)

Anyway, happy reading...I can't wait to hear from you all.