Getting ready for Halloween

 

If we were still in PA Halloween would be done, candy eaten and just endured a hurricane. BUT, since we are now in Arizona we will actually celebrate Halloween on the 31st and have no time limits put on us. Strangely the thought of that does not seem normal.

We have done a few holiday festivities. The kids had a Monster Mash Glow dance at their school last Friday. We almost didn't go since Audrey and Leia were grumpy from a cold and the dance started right at their bedtime. Surprisingly Audrey perked up after dinner so we took a chance, had the kids suit up in their Halloween gear and headed out to school.

In my mind it was going to be an actual dance and I  secretly wondered how the heck all the kids and their parents (no drop-offs please) would fit in the gym. While driving there Jonathan reminded me it was outside, a pleasant surprise. The dance was more like a carnival without games. The kids were able to go down a huge slide, bounce in a bounce house, get their fortune told, have a balloon animal created for them and if they wanted to, actually dance. We stayed around for an hour and then headed home to put kiddos to bed.

We also attempted to go to a pumpkin patch about a week ago but they were all closed on Monday so off to the supermarket we went. Jonathan and Ella chose a good sized pumpkin, Leia once again chose a tiny one and if Audrey wasn't strapped down in the shopping cart she would have run away in fear. I'm not sure if we'll get to carving them... we'll see.

 

 

 

 

While Ryan was at work,  I think Saturday, we attempted to get some decorating in as well. The girls came out with me and proceeded to play with the rocks while I hung decorations. After a while, Jonathan came outside to see what we were up to and then decided to join in on the fun. The three older kids helped out with the massive spider web which was the home of a big spider we placed on our outside light. At night his beady little red eyes light up and it sits there quietly, just waiting to get a trick or treater.

Last night we did something new... made caramel apples. I was about to start the caramel but then Jonathan interrupted wanting/ begging me to show him how to make it. He has been wanting me to show him how to cook for some time now. So I brushed aside the urge to do it myself and let him take over. He did a good job and the homemade from scratch caramel tasted delicious. I let it cool down a little and thne coated the apples, handed the three oldest kids each an apples and they went to town decorating them with candies. Once all was done, the apple eating began. Leia kept exclaiming her apple tasted "yumilicious".



Now to just get those pumpkins carved before tomorrow night.

A Decade of Jonathan

On October 8th Jonathan turned 10. Ryan and I are baffled how this happened. 10! He has been with us for 10 years! He has been looking forward to the day, looking at the calendar, counting the days and then the time came and went. The boy is growing up before our eyes. I'm trying not to blink.

The day was pretty low key. It started out with a yummy breakfast involving bacon and pancakes. Okay, the day really started off by him waking up to a lovely b-day note, having to use the bathroom and getting an unexpected surprise of balloons blocking his way.

 

Later in the day he went out with dad for lunch where he did some indoor rock climbing. Around dinner time, all the Huntingtons came over for dinner and to  hang out. I'm not sure which Huntington family it is, but they have a tradition where the gifts are hidden and the b-day person has to find them. So off went a bunch of excited kids, hiding presents while Jonathan talked to G'pa on the phone. When he was finished the search began. He had a lot of fun and the Huntingtons spoiled him with many wonderful presents... all of which he stayed up late playing.

It seems so surreal that 10 years has passed by.When I think of other boys Jonathan's age and and see how they behave, it is quite apparent that Jonathan is a really good boy. He really tries to follow the Lord and is a wonderful big brother considering he is surrounded by girlishness. He is incredibly smart and constantly has something he is interested in... a new card game, his anime drawings, immersed in a new book or figuring out how to make a new idea/ invention become a reality. I am sooo glad he a part of our family. We love you Jonathan.

Disneyland

The kids have the first 2-1/2 weeks off of October so the brainstorming began months ago about what we should do for Jonathan's birthday. No more crazy residency schedule to worry about and mess up plans! Yahooooo! After much thought, we decided to head out to Cali and spend a couple days at Disneyland. It would be the first time for Leia and Audrey plus a long over due trip for Jonathan and Ella. I don't even think Ella remembers when she went the first time.

The kids surprised me how good they were on the drive out there. We spent the first night in Simi and then took off for Disneyland the next morning. All the older kiddos were super excited and ready for the day. I LOVE to tell the little kids, this time Leia, that the tram is the first ride. Little wide eyed, crackly voice Leia, tried her best to take it all in with a gigantic smile on her face.

We spent a good part of the first day together. Now and then the boys went on some of the bigger rides. All of the girly girls enjoyed It's A Small World. Even Audrey got all snuggly comfortable on me and just looked at all the dolls in amazement. When the ride was done, we were pleasantly surprised to see Uncle John. He then politely followed us to go on the ride a second time, sat Ella on his shoulders so she could have a better seat for the parade that passed by after the ride and finally went off with the boys to go on some roller coasters Jonathan had waited patiently to ride.

While the boys played, it was tricky to find rides I could go on with three little girls. We ended up on a Merri go round and then going on the Ariel ride, which I was secretly dying for Leia to see. She loved it, Ella was a little scared and Audrey just hung in there. We atually went on it twice, the second time I looked over seeing my three little girls, seated smallest to biggest, holding unto the bar ready for the ride. It melted my heart and felt like one happy momma.

The next day the kids were a little beat, especially Leia. Uncle Todd and his family met us at Disneyland and spent the day with us. I feel so bad they had to wait in a huge line just to see Tinkerbell and then when we actually saw her, Leia freaked out half way through. Eventually she calmed down and we had another great day. They hung in there which I appreciate because Tinkerbell was a must see for us and a highlight of the trip for Ella. Even with 2 days we still had many rides not yet experienced but we can save those for another day.

I must say, some of the Disney employees really love their job and it shows. During the second day in Cars' land, we stumbled upon a mini live show. During it kids were invited to dance along. In the mist of them was a little boy in a wheelchair strumming an air guitar while pushing himself along in the line of kids. The look on his face was of pure joy. I looked over at one of the main Disney performers who was just smiling at him, turned her head and wiped away a few tears. I did too. That moment was truly magical.

We had a great time. Ryan and I were amazed with everything going on, how well the kids behaved. I still can't get over it. Best vacation ever!

 Umm, funny and slightly embarrasing story. Jonathan, the older two girlsand I decided to ride Autotopia. While on the ride there are many, many signs that say do not bump other cars. Jonathan was in front of us and little did I know he would frequently stop due to having difficulties reaching the gas pedal. At the start of the ride I thought, "Hey I should get a pic of Ella driving the car." I fumbled through my purse, found my phone and then proceeded to get a decent pic. I ended up positoning the phone where I could not see Jonathan's car and within seconds I gave him a good bump. I was completely embarrased and hoping we would not get pulled off the ride. I guess no phone use should be used on car rides as well. Lesson learned I paid attention the rest of the ride but Jonathan kept stopping which meant I had to stop. One time we were bumped from a little girl. I must admit watching him drive made me cringe at the thought in about 5 years he will be driving for real. Heaven help me... and him.

Leia walking across the bridge in Tarzan's tree house.

Leia and me at the top of the tree house.

 Jonathan about to ride Star Tours... which is an awesome ride.

 That dot between Jonathan and Ella is actually the center of Disneyland... found in the castle.

 One of the few pictures we took of Audrey. Proof that she was there.

 On both days we took a break here, where the kids could relax, have some down time and cool off.

 Ella with Tinkerbell and her friend.

 We even met Mickey mouse!

 Audrey cutting a dance move.

Uncle John, purposefully making a weird face, along with Jonathan and Ryan on California Screamer.

The big 70!

At the begining of October we went to Cali for a family vacation and to visit grandparents. While there, my mom had her b-day so we were able to celebrate it with her. We have not been able to do that in years.

This particular b-day was extra special because she turned 70! Towards the beginning of the day we took off for their mountain house and got the full, fabulous tour. My dad had a custom built home theater put in but we were never able to see it since we lived so far away. Finally we live closer, had some time on our hands and drove out to the mountains to see it. I knew the theater had to be nice since it was featured in a magazine but seeing it in person was awesome. The kids loved it instantly and ended up watching a movie. I think the sweetest part was looking up and seeing a replica of how the night sky looked the day my parents were married. I never knew my dad was such a romantic guy.

It was nice to spend time with my family. My mom has become a little attached to Leia and wisked her away to give Leia her own special tour of the place.

This picture cracks me up. It should have a caption like, "really, I HAVE to be a Packer's fan? What to do, what to do?"

 

 

 

Towards the evening we headed out to my brother's new place where we had pizza and cake. My brother's house is awesome as well. I love to see how people choose to decorate their home. It's kind of like wondering what style dress a new bride will choose. So fun.

                                                                My mom and brother

                                                                  My Dad and Mom

Our Service FHE

Today we had a special FHE. The kiddos school needed volunteers to stand outside Safeway and collect receipts from people leaving the store. A few weeks ago we volunteered with the kids super excited mostly because if we signed up they got a piece of candy. Anyway, the days passed by and today was the day to get to work.

We went straight from school to Safeway which was earlier than our shift. I noticed no one had signed up before us and was hoping the kids could last more than the hour we signed up for. The minute we walked into the store, just to get the signs mind you, our work began and we had 4 receipts before even "officially" starting.

At first we split up, the girls and I at one door and Cody and Jonathan at the other. When our real time slot started, another family came to help out so we had one door. Ella worked her magic and she had many people handing receipts to her. She was even able to explain how the receipt helped out her school. When people had questions, Jonathan was able to show them exactly what on the receipt we needed. It was amazing to see the kids work well as a team... something that I have not seen a lot lately. We did have some people who walked by us but I still can't believe how many receipts we did get.

Afterwards we ordered a pizza and as we walked around waiting for it, we ran into the kids principal who happened to take a shift after us. I am so glad the kids have a principal who is willing to lead by example. It was nice for the kids to be able to hand over all their hard work to her. Finally we left, ate some yummy pizza and had a little more joy in our lives because we were able to help out their school.

Audrey @ 15 months

Yesterday Audrey turned 15 months old. I was totally going to bypass the checkup because I thought  her next one was at 18 months BUT while looking through her baby visit book I found out that indeed, she needed to be seen at 15 months. Ryan found us a new pediatrician and I was able to make an appointment for the big day.

I must admit, I look at Audrey a little more cautiously that the other kiddos which is completely due to her delivery and being in the NICU. In the back of my mind I am holding my breath, hoping and praying she will develop normally. That nothing will be "wrong" with her. The whole walking milestone has been the biggest breath holder. Watching babies way younger than her walk and yet she was still content crawling. She did make the normal progressions just not as quickly as the other kids which goes back to wondering if she is truly okay. With that said, on Ryan and my wedding anniversary, Audrey took her first major solo steps. Unfortunately, I was not there since Ryan and I were out celebrating but the fact that she finally met that milestone was the best gift ever.

Needless to say, the last week has been a fun one just watching Audrey figure out walking a little better. It's amazing to see her get around and just enjoy her new freedom. I can finally breathe and  see my toddler actually toddle around.

 

Anyway, I found out at her appointment that 15 months, at least according to her current doctor, is  the cut off for learning how to walk. Man did Audrey get down to the wire on that one.

Everything else is going great. She is still rather skinny but has gained weight since her last appointment so hopefully that trend will continue.

She truly is a joy to watch and makes us all smile. Her laugh is contagious but her screams are earth shattering, soul splitting. She loves to play peak a boo and can say mom, dad, Ella, dog, this, hi and her own version of peak a boo. She enjoys waving and pointing at things but has also discovered all the kitchen cabinets at her level actually open. Many days of exploration are in her future!

We love you Audrey.

Just one quick story:
The cutest thing happened tonight during her bath. The dog came up to her and at first she was happy and chatting a bit at him. Then he licked her and she did not like it very much. She started to point at him, say some baby garble but in a commanding tone and then would touch, lightly smack his mouth. At first it puzzled me a bit but then I realized she was copying our behaviors towards the dog. Our new dog, Buddy, is only 6 months old and since he has been a little nippy at the kids,  he really just wants to play, he has been in training mode of what is okay and what is not acceptable. A lot of nozzle grabbing and telling him no has been taking place between him, me and the other kids. Soooo during her bath, Audrey decided Buddy was not behaving properly and gave him a piece of her mind. You go girl!

Weight 19lbs 10.5 oz
Height 30-1/2 "
Head 17-1/2"

Our newest three year old

Okay, I'll admit it... Leia has been three for a little over a month now. Her birthday was awesome because she was able to celebrate it with another wonderful person who has the same b-day, my dad! In fact, all of my side of the family was able to come out and celebrate their b-days. Unfortunately, but fortunate at the same time, Scoot took the b-day pictures. I still need to get some copies so I can post them.

Where the pics she should be...

moving on...

...wait, I did take 2 pictures on my iTouch...

.

Leia eating her b-day breakfast.

Leia decorating her b-day cake with Skittles, Life Saver Gummies and Rolos. I have decided to forgo making themed cakes and just let the kids decorate the cake how they want to. Leia seemed to enjoy this new tradition.

...Last week Leia went to her check up. We met her new physician who seems really nice. I still miss Dr. Saltz thou. Any who...

Leia is doing well. Meeting all the milestones she should be reaching and continuing to grow, grow, grow! I can't imagine life with out her. The little songs she makes up on a whim. I adore hearing her crackly voice sing or say a family prayer. How she hungs me tight at night when I tuck her in bed, wants just one more hug and kiss. Her boundless energy which now is used to sneaking food, climbimg places she should not be and pretending up a storm. Oh the bruises, scrapes and cuts she has managed to get in just the three short years she has been on this earth. She is still undergoing potty training which is a story on its own. And of course once you get to know her, she tugs at a piece of your heart where you just have to hug her one more time. My mom's heart felt that tug and Marissa just wanted to pack Leia up and take her to California. We just need to visit family more!


Oh yeah, she loves to "borrow" my iTouch and take pictures/ videos

 

 

We sure love you Leia!



Weight 30.4 lbs.
Height  37.75"

First Day of School 2012-2013

If we still lived in PA, tomorrow would be the first day of school, however, we are not so the kids' had their first day of school back in July. In fact, last week I had conferences with the kiddos' teachers. Pure craziness I tell you.

So far the kids have enjoyed school, Ella especially. I am sooooo thankful she has taken to school and finds joy in following the rules and learning. Honestly she could have gone either way with liking school and following the rules so I am extactic with the path she has chosen. With all that said, her favorite parts of school are lunch and when she gets to pick something out from the treasure box.

 Jonathan's first day as a 5th grader.

Ella's looking fabulous for her first day of Kindergarten. She picked the outfit out herself and loves it because she looks like Brittany from the Chipettes.


Yay to a new school year. Have fun Pennsylvania friends and have a fabulous day tomorrow. We sure miss you guys.

Back when we lived in PA...

It seems like the days are flying by which has made the thought of catching up my blog overwhelming. I just looked at my last few posts and realized so many things have happened since then. I will try to recap most of it but since it seems like forever ago, I will probably miss a lot of things.

Back in June Audrey turned 1. All of our stuff shipped out the day before her b-day so her actual big day was extremely low key. We went to Wegmans, picked out a cake, had them write her name on it and then celebrated in an empty house. I think we had 2 presents for her. We asked everyone to not send gifts because I did not want to lug them in suitcases out to AZ.

The best story was what happened at her check up. It was the last time seeing her doctor so after the exam we were chit chatting while waiting for her shots. Then I hear this strange noise and the doc has a "oh no" look on his face. I asked if it was a false alarm, which he replied it was not. The fire alarm had been set off so everyone was evacuating the building So I took a half naked Audrey out of the building hoping I did not forget anything. Unfortunately the nurse did not draw up Audrey's shots yet so she was not able to get them in the parking lot. I had to reschedule :(

Another awesome event was Ryan's end to residency. Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahoooooooooooooo!
I thought this day would never come. I took the kids to the whole hospital residency graduation and then the next evening Ryan, Jonathan and I attended the Emergency Medicine dinner/ graduation. Once everything was officially done, along with his last few shifts, Ryan became incredibly giddy and stress free. I have not seen him like that in at least a decade.

Since we were waiting out the last few days before our plane trip, we went to Knoebles. It was hot but such a great day. It was a bummer we were not able to go last summer due to unforeseen circumstances so it was an extra treat to go before leaving PA.

Leia loved the "thrill" rides. I don't think there was one melt down either. Audrey and Leia enjoyed hanging out at the kiddie pool while Ella ventured out on the water slides with Daddy.

Our ward threw a BBQ for us. Ryan and I have been so engrossed with getting through residency that we have been very non social so I was completely surprised at the amount of people who came out to say good-bye. There are some extremely wonderful people in PA that I already miss not seeing. Including our neighbors.

I think the last major thing was Jonathan's band concert. We were all able to go and he sounded great. I love how his band teacher set up the program and have seen such growth in Jonathan's abilities in playing the trumpet. He wants to continue so we already started renting a trumpet out here and his first class is on Thursday.

Oh yeah, one for thing about Jonathan. Before we left he had the Blue and Gold ceremony where he earned his Bear badge and the square knot Faith Emblem. He also earned some belt loops and pins. He worked so hard to get everything done and now he can work on arrows until October when he can officially move up.

As for the plane ride out to AZ it was better than I anticipated. Audrey was the grumpy child but she had every right to be considering she had a sore/ bleeding bottom due to 1-1/2 weeks of diarreah plus I think she was teething. The poor college student that sat next to Ella and Jonathan needed surgery due to her ears falling off from all the talking that came her way. All of out luggage made it except the bottom half of Ella's car seat.

We stepped out into a dry heat, have already seen numerous sand storms (ha-boo) and have witnessed a few incredible rain storms which took out major branches from two trees in out front yard. The house is amazing but will take some time before it feels more like a home... it's massive so decorating it will be quite an en devour but it's exciting!

That's all folks!

Well, the POD comes in an hour which means bye-bye for my computer. So unless I somehow get hold of Ryan's computer the last couple weeks here, this will be the last post in PA. Unfortunately some really cool things have happened around here and some extremely exciting things are about to happen this week, but alas, those things will not be blogged about until we get into our new place.

Speaking of the new place, I have yet to see it. Buy a home and never see it, a bit crazy, but I trust Ryan and from the videos, it looks amazing.

So this is it for Where East Meets Southworth. Bye-bye- green, lush PA, beautiful fireflies and rolling hills dotted with farms. Hello new name for our blog since we will be living back west.