LiFE is sweet...

2 days with 2 boys under 2

2012-02-01T13:02:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to spend my Monday and Tuesday with those two adorable guys :)

Wesley, our nephew and Brooks' cousin, is an ever-smiley, 6-month old, crawler who kept me busy, gave me snuggles, and got me excited to see Brooks be an older brother! There was plenty of sweet play between them, along with plenty of opportunities to encourage Brooks to share ;)

It was great to have Jamie, my brother's beautiful wife, here with us while she worked on business. Thanks for letting us enjoy your sweet Wesley!

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Spiritual Health:

Read "Recognizing God's Hand in Our Daily Blessings" by Elder D. Todd Christoffersen

Definitely needed the reminder that each day is mine to start fresh, to express my gratitude to God, and to ask for His assistance in my life. And I loved how he related the Israelites escaping Egypt and being blessed by manna to our day:

"By providing daily sustenance one day at a time, Jehovah was trying to teach faith to a nation that over a period of 400 years had lost much of the faith of their fathers. He was teaching them to trust Him. In essence, the children of Israel had to walk with Him each day and trust that He would grant a sufficient amount of food for the next day on the next day and so on. In that way He could never be too far from their minds and hearts."

Doilies, red paint, & milk glass vases

2012-01-30T13:37:00.001-08:00

...just some bits and pieces of my valentine decor this year :)

Just like last year, simple and sweet.

The Valentine's season grows on me more and more every year. What a wonderfully laid back holiday to express love and admiration to those we care about most...to make and receive valentines...to eat sweets, and smell lovely flowers...and let's be real, I'm a sucker for pretty much anything mushy-gushy and lovey-dovey :)

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Sprititual Health:

Watched this beautiful video: Temples Are a Beacon

Inspires me to get to the temple with Adam...we are so blessed to live so close to one! So blessed.

Physical Health:

Chasing after my little boy, and my sweet 6-month old nephew Wesley who just started crawling! :) Wesley and his beautiful Momma Jamie are staying with us for a couple days while she is here on business :)

My 24th in Polaroids

2012-01-27T08:05:00.000-08:00

To start out my 24th year with

waking up to a candle-lit birthday song sung by my sweetheart,

getting couples massages (heaven),

enjoying lunch with Adam,

taking a nice long nap,

talking with sweet family & friends on the phone,

walking through the Gateway with my hand in his,

ordering a delicious shrimp tempura roll at Happy Sumo,

sipping a frapp at Starbucks with my Little B,

buying cute, cozy gloves at UO,

eating sweets and watching Modern Family...

I'd say it's going to be a good year ;)

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Spiritual Health:

Completed the Personal Progress - Knowledge Value Experience #1

I read Proverbs 1:5; 4:7;2 Nephi 28:30; and Doctrine and Covenants 88:78–80, 118; 90:15; 130:18–19;131:6.

"Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand; ...Of things both in heaven and in the earth... That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again to magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you." -- D&C 88:78-80

Physical Health:

Going to the gym (it's been too long!) before my sisters come into town! :)

little letters

2012-01-24T13:14:00.000-08:00

Dear lady in the car next to me at the stop light,
Cheers to making eye contact and catching each other singing out loud to the same Adele song on the radio.

Dear Bennett,
Happy belated Angel Day sunshine boy! We loved being with the Kjar family on Sunday to do a yellow balloon-release in your honor and sing songs around your beautiful headstone. There was gorgeous, newly fallen snow on the ground and trees and I thought it made it look a little more like heaven :)

Dear Valentine's Day decor,
You make me smile because every time I look at you I think of my own valentine :) You made taking down the Christmas decor a liiiittle easier...

Dear left over lasagna,
I swear, you taste even better the day after.

Dear bellybutton,
Thanks for being patient with my boys who like to poke you back in to my very tight, round belly ;)

Dear Son,
Thank you sweet boy for making me laugh Sunday morning when you got all sneaky and played peek-a-boo behind the kitchen cabinets. And when you say "heyyO" (your "hello") it kills me every time! You're too stinkin' cute.

Dear pears, crumbled gorgonzola, and candied pecans,
You are what help me eat the spinach and greens that this baby and I need...for that, I love you to the moon & back.

Dear Mom,
Loved every minute of our phone call today :) Can't wait to see you in a couple months...I'm giddy just thinking about it. SO grateful you're so willing and excited to come help with Brooks and baby #2.

Dear new floral printed flats,
Thanks for making me and my feet extra happy.

Dear Adam,
You have cute buns. And, even better, you have a huge heart...thank you for being patient with this overly-emotional prego wife if yours. Can't believe how lucky I am that you're mine and I'm yours forever.

xo,

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Spiritual Health:

Read the incredibly sweet talk "Love Her Mother" by Elaine S. Dalton from October's General Conference...directed to fathers. How grateful I am for the father of my children <3

"Your personal virtue will model for your daughters, and also your sons, what true strength and moral courage are. By being a guardian of virtue in your own life, in your home, and in the lives of your children, you are showing your wife and daughters what true love really is. Your personal purity will give you power."

so blessed

2012-01-20T16:32:00.000-08:00

I am so blessed to be part of such an incredible family. Within one year, Adam's family lost 2 beautiful people...a sweet boy and an incredible man. And what I've witnessed from both experiences, was that their faith was strengthened and they grew closer together.

Today we celebrated the life of Adam's Grandfather, Stan Smoot. The funeral services were so touching...beautiful music, tender memories, funny stories, and inspiring qualities of Grandpa were shared. Overall, there was a message of love and admiration for a man who loved God with all his heart, and who loved and supported his family in everything, I mean everything. Growing up, Adam always knew his Grandpa would be in the stands at all of his wrestling matches...he was the biggest fan of all of his grandchildren, and they knew it :)

My heart went through many poignant moments as I felt the spirit today, and recalled the spirit and feelings I felt one year ago at the funeral of our nephew, Bennett. Grandpa Smoot lived a long, full life...and he used his time on earth to do so much good for so many people :) Bennett was just about to turn 2 years old...so his funeral to me was much more tender and heart breaking...yet joyful and inspiring! My heart hurts for Adam's sister and her family who long to be able to see him live his life beyond the 20 short months he had. But in those 20 months Bennett brought joy to SO many...and his passing is a reminder to us all to soak up every day with our loved ones, and to make sure we are living life the right way so that we can all be together again...death is not the end. How blessed I am to have that knowledge.

Now, I'm going to enjoy a sweet night at home with my boys...soaking up every second with them, they're such gifts :)

sprinkles

2012-01-18T14:52:00.000-08:00

Today with baked, decorated, and ate sugar cookies with some of our sweetest friends :) Thank you so much Kira for having us over!

Brooks has never made sugar cookies so this was definitely new to him...he poked at the dough and once he figured out how good it tasted he downed about a half a cookie's worth before we could even get them in the oven. ;) Grant, his buddy, was a pro at cutting out the shapes! It's so fun to see children learn new things, and see what puts smiles on their faces...picking out different shaped cutters, squishing the dough, licking the frosting, and (Brooks' favorite) eating the sprinkles off his cookie...and the table.

*nom*nom*

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Spiritual Health:

Read Alma 46...so inspiring to read about Moroni and the Title of Liberty. Reminds me how blessed we are to have the U.S. Constitution.

Physical Health:

Adam has some church meetings tonight...while he's gone I'll hopefully hop on the treadmill and do lots of good stretching. I better, considering I ate 3 of those cookies...soon to be 4 ;)

Corrie + Lots of good food =

2012-01-17T12:33:00.000-08:00

just the weekend I needed :)

My sister Corrie came down for the weekend...it was full of sleeping in, LOTS of laughs, fun at the park, watching Friends & painting nails, eating way too much food, playing new games (speed Scrabble rocks)...and saying goodbye wasn't too bad because we'll be seeing her and my other sister Celeste again next week for my birthday and our cousin's wedding!

And I don't know how I didn't get one picture of Adam while Corrie was here...he's a sneaky one ;) So instead I'll share this picture I snapped after one of my many trips to the loo the other night (thank you baby for jumping on my bladder;) Brooks was having a hard night so he joined Adam and I in bed cause we were one tired mama and papa...and as you can tell, Little B is a bit of a mover at night time. haha!

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Spiritual Health:

Thanks to Brit, I felt I really wanted to read Dieter F. Uchtdorf's last General Conference talk, "You Matter to Him"...oh how I needed his message today :)

"...while we may look at the vast expanse of the universe and say, 'What is man in comparison to the glory of creation?' God Himself said we are the reason He created the universe! His work and glory—the purpose for this magnificent universe—is to save and exalt mankind.

"God sees you not only as a mortal being on a small planet who lives for a brief season—He sees you as His child. He sees you as the being you are capable and designed to become. He wants you to know that you matter to Him."

Physical Health:

A reeeeeeeaally long and beautiful walk with Brooks :)

Beloved Grandfather...

2012-01-16T20:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a tender day for Adam's Mother's family...Adam's beloved Grandpa Smoot passed away. He was at home, with his sweet wife and their seven children by his side, when he peacefully took his last breath at age 81. Adam and I were not there, but we visited the family later that night and were told it was a heartbreaking, yet beautiful moment. Death of a loved one is never easy, especially when such a giant of man leaves us, but we are grateful he does not have to go through physical struggle and pain any more. And Adam knows he will see his loving Grandfather again. He is dearly missed by numerous loved ones and those blessed to call him friend...but as a wife myself, my heart goes out most to our sweet Grandma Smoot who is now without her forever sweetheart. Thank heavens they were sealed in the temple, and I know she knows she will be with him again, and they'll be together forever <3

{ Isn't that photo just precious? My wonderful cousin Marlene captured that candid moment at our wedding almost four years ago...don't you see true love in his eyes looking at his beautiful wife? }

His funeral will be on Friday...another tender day we can be sure. But it will also be a beautiful day to celebrate his life! You can read his obituary here...an incredible tribute to a wonderful man.

We love you Grandpa Smoot!!

cinnamon oatmeal with a spatula

2012-01-13T09:38:00.000-08:00

...because we're classy like that ;)

Happy Friday!

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Spiritual Health:

I enjoyed watching a few short videos of real people out in the world who's faith gives them strength...their stories inspired me and made me smile :)

My favorites were Pierre (he lives in Switzerland, is blind, and has a sweet tooth like me!), Brandon (sings with The Killers, and is a hubby & dad), and Stan (cute old man & creator of thrill park rides).

Physical Health:

Elliptical for 45 minutes...making up for yesterday...and pilates at home

Christmas in January

2012-01-12T09:39:00.000-08:00

The title of this post describes how I felt like when I came home yesterday afternoon to find this box on our front porch :) You see, my beautiful friend Britney (who lives in Oregon) offered to send me some of her maternity clothes to enjoy during this last leg of my pregnancy...how thoughtful is she??

I put Brooks down for his nap (in record time, I was pretty excited to open it up;) and then proceeded to have a little fashion show in my room trying on the fabulous (and insanely comfortable) skinny jeans, comfy sweaters & tops, adorable peacoat, and beautiful white maxi skirt. Being pregnant I don't feel cute or attractive the majority of the time...and comfortable clothes with style are a luxury! Welp, Britney helped me with all of that. Thank you, thank you!

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Spiritual Health:

Read "Concern for the One" by Joseph B. Wirthlin...A wonderful General Conference address from April 2008, the month before Adam and I got married :)

"The Lord did not people the earth with a vibrant orchestra of personalities only to value the piccolos of the world. Every instrument is precious and adds to the complex beauty of the symphony. All of Heavenly Father’s children are different in some degree, yet each has his own beautiful sound that adds depth and richness to the whole."

Physical Health:

We'll see ;)

30 weeks with disappearing toes

2012-01-10T20:59:00.000-08:00

Dear Baby,

Three-quarters. You are three-quarters of the way done cooking! And you just keep cooking as long as you need :) At your ultrasound today Dr. Meek told your Daddy and I that you're head-down (good job!), we saw your little heart beating strong, you're measuring at about 3 pounds 3 ounces...and we saw your face!! Oh your sweet face...your closed eyes, your nose, your lips, your chin. You made this Momma of yours cry...but don't worry, they were the happiest tears :)

And your five senses are all functional now! Although you can't see, taste, or smell much now...I do hope you feel cozy and warm, and that you hear the many "I love you"s we tell you daily. Thinking of your five senses...made me think of my own. And I thought I'd share with you five things I can't wait to experience with you as an infant:

I can't wait to SEE your fresh eyes when you look at me, really look at me, for the first time.

I can't wait to HEAR your tender cry, that I will be able to sooth.

I can't wait to TASTE your sweet kisses.

I can't wait to SMELL your baby breath and your peach fuzz skin.

I can't wait to FEEL your chest on my chest, and your breath on my neck.

Sweet baby, I love you more than you know. Keep growing! And maybe tone down the kicks to my ribs, pretty please ;)

Love always,

Mom

PS - So sorry I missed your 28 week letter and baby bump photos...somehow the holidays came and went and slipped through my fingers! That won't happen again, promise :)

PPS - Here are 3 sonogram photos of your little face...it's horizontal and near the top, your forehead on the right, and chin on the left. These pictures are hard to make out...I wish we could have captured video of it! But I know I'll get plenty of video of you later to make up for it ;)

Time with Grandma & Grandpa Stum :)

2012-01-09T14:30:00.000-08:00

It's difficult to think of anything much sweeter than having my son, loving him with all my heart and getting a taste of how my parents love me. Well, I can think of one thing...watching him and my parents (his Grandma and Grandpa Stum) play and laugh together. It's pretty magical.

My wonderful Mom & Dad took some time to stay with us for a few days after we dropped off Corrie & Celeste in Idaho. We loved every minute of them here!!..and miss them like crazy already. They are such incredible, patient, creative, loving grandparents! Brooks is one of 17 (soon to be 19) grandchildren on the Stum side...and having them all to himself for a couple days made him one lucky boy :)

There was creative fun with play-doh one morning...

We enjoyed a gorgeous, sunny afternoon at the park...

And the day they left back to Washington it snowed!! Snowmen were built, snow angels were made, and hot cocoa was sipped...

The next time we see my Mom she'll be here for the birth of baby number 2! And my Dad will come shortly after :) Oh we can't wait!

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Spiritual Health:

Read "Teachings of Jesus" by Dallin H. Oaks...such a beautiful, bold testimony of our Savior.

Physical Health:

Elliptical for 30 minutes, then pilates at home (worked on my legs and arms!)

Dropping my sisters off at college...

2012-01-05T13:29:00.000-08:00

The current weather up in the college-town of Rexburg, ID is unheard of...chilly, but not frigid...and there's almost no snow. In January?? Here we stood on one of the 5 patches of snow in the city...

Jimmy John's for lunch...SO good...

Kisses in front of Celeste's freshman dorm...

Helped move Celeste in...yay for Freshman year!

Moved Corrie in to her new apartment...Brooks loved shooting some hoops...

Went out for dinner at Craigo's...er, I mean Pizza Pie Cafe...different from my days up there :)

Bath time while Celeste unpacked and set up her room...

Enjoyed the gorgeous, yet chilly, weather while walking around campus...

Purchased text books...

Said goodbye's and wished good luck to our girls this semester!

To say I'm excited for my sisters Corrie and Celeste to be up in Rexburg, going to college at the same time, is a huge understatement. I'm actually trying really hard not to be jealous down here :) Corrie is on the homestretch and only has a few more semesters 'til she graduates from BYU-Idaho, so she'll be able to show Celeste the ropes of school and how to get the most out of college life. It makes me giddy just thinking about all of it! I love them so much and I'm excited to hear about how their semesters go :)

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Spiritual Health:

Read "Living the Abundant Life" - January's First Presidency Message, by Thomas S. Monson

"Courage becomes a worthwhile and meaningful virtue when it is regarded not so much as a willingness to die manfully but as a determination to live decently."

Physical Health:

Going to the gym for a little date with the elliptical...it's a love/hate relationship ;)

Our Family's 2011

2012-01-03T20:44:00.000-08:00

I had so much fun putting this post together last week, gathering pictures and picking my favorite posts with such wonderful memories. There are a lot of links...as you can see I'm not very good at summarizing ;)

While looking back I couldn't help but feel so blessed for what an incredible year 2011 has been to our family!! The title of our blog summarizes it perfectly...LIFE IS SWEET...not perfect, but incredibly sweet.

Rung in the New Year with friends & ate 12 grapes

We built a blanket fort and filled it with stars

Made epic pear & gorgonzola pizza

Shared photos from our late-December cruise to Mexico

Made my own button earrings

Was reminded how precious life is when our sweet nephew Bennett passed away at the tender age of just 20-months

Enjoyed a sushi dinner with my boys for my 23rd Birthday celebration

Brooks experienced his first hospital visit because of RSV

Decorated for Valentine's Day for the first time...with kissing polaroids :)

Had a tea party with sisters & friends

Made homemade Valentine's with Brooks

Had a an 80's themed surprise party for Adam's 25th birthday!

Enjoyed the best Valentine's Day yet

Made the most delicious chicken lettuce wraps with my babe on my back

Went to a monster truck show

Brooks was being adorable. As always ;)

Walked through incredible Ice Castles in Midway

Brooks turned into my little book worm

That little book worm started walking! And we had video to prove it :)

Had a cousin sleep over...chocolate facials included

Our sweet boy turned ONE!

Brooks & I took an awesome trip to WA visiting my family

Adam and I did a vlog of 12 reasons we love Brooks

Wrote a letter to Brooks with monthly pictures from newborn to 12 months

Enjoyed a wonderful April General Conference

Went on a lunch date with my little man then picked out paint colors for our home

Started the remodel of our kitchen and upstairs of our home

Totally scored while thrifting

Brooks had his one-year photo shoot

The Easter Bunny came!

Went to the temple sealing of sweet friends

Went on a sweet morning walk with my loves

A practically perfect early Mother's Day outing to a tulip festival

Had a HAPPY Mother's Day!

Created my first gallery wall of family photos

Pizzas and chocolate calzones made for a perfect family night out

Celebrated our 3 year wedding anniversary!

Indoor s'mores. Yes please.

Had a lovely Memorial Day and Birthday Party for Bennett

Went to the SLC Temple with Adam's old college roommates

Enjoyed a road trip to St. George for my sweet nephew's Baptism

Took silly photo booth pics with Brooks

Started the tradition of creating our family's silhouettes

Celebrated Father's Day with my best friend

Went house boating at Lake Powell...one of the best vacations ever!

Created a video of our Lake Powell adventures

Went home to Washington to see my old roommate Kersie back from her mission to NYC

Had a fabulous 4th of July

Had a blast at Girl's Camp with my Young Women!

Started my goal of recording my physical & spiritual health

Created a video of our Yellow Stone adventures

Loved every minute of the bi-annual Stum Family Reunion

Went horseback riding with the Young Women

Had a wonderful weekend at the Kjar Cabin

Went to the splash pad for the first time with Katie & Kalia

Tub time with Brooks...always dripping with cuteness

Ate too many Otter-Pops to count

Dear Brooks,

Taught a lesson at church...and shared my testimony of my faith on the blog

Went to the Fair and Rodeo!

Smoothie lunch date with my boys

Sweet friends rescued our sick little fam and brought dinner

Went on the 3rd Annual Kjar Sisters Retreat

Brooks and I had a sweet weekend visiting my sister Corrie at college

Shared a few adorable videos of Brooks on his half-birthday :)

We announced Brooks is going to be a big brother!!!

Wrote my first letter to Baby #2...which included baby bump photos

Met Kira, now one of my dearest friends, & baked amazing chocolate chip pumpkin cookies

Found our, now favorite, Castle Park!

Enjoyed a mini-date to The Gateway with my lover

Went to the pumpkin patch with the Kjars

Came to find that boys and soap don't always mix

Made the best salmon. Ever.

Created a bucket list of 30 things Adam & I want to do before we're 30

Went on the most beautiful, autumn walk with Brooks

Took a stroll down memory lane with photos of past Halloween costumes

Had a successful Halloweekend!

Brooks loved every minute of this bounce-house heaven

Had our babe's 20-week ultrasound...leaving the gender a surprise!

Enjoyed a sweet Sunday that reminded me why I love my boys so much

Went out to a Vietnamese restaurant...Brooks loves pho!

Dear Brooks,

Adam felt the baby for the first time

Took Indian takeout to McDonalds

Had a wonderful Thanksgiving in Spokane at my sister Natalie's home with some of the Stums

My obsession with paper snowflakes started...

Brooks gave high-fives to Santa

Had the Kjars over for dinner, eggnog tapioca, and early Christmas presents

Got our family photos taken...love how they turned out

Shared a Christmas guest post at one of favorite blogs

Went to see the Zoo Lights
Brooks loved his first trip to the library

Had a perfectly imperfect, yet very Merry Christmas!!

At almost 2 years old, Brooks got his 1st hair cut

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Spiritual Health:

The last few days I've let scripture study slip through my fingers, but before I could post this I knew I needed to read! John 13 is an incredible chapter...Christ washing his disciples feet...and then he shares the beautiful commandment to "...love one another; as I have loved you."

Physical Health:

Yikes, same as above...but this is one tired momma who's going to make up for it tomorrow :)

2012: be the good

2012-01-01T22:07:00.000-08:00

Is that print just stellar? I found it on pinterest :)

Its simple yet inspiring words are what I'm centering my New Year's Goals around.

BELIEVE THERE IS GOOD IN THE WORLD:

I am going to do better to see good in the world...to see good in people...to see the Child of God in the those I love and in the strangers I meet.

BE THE GOOD:

I am going to have a more forgiving heart...I am going to be more dependable...I am going to be a more thoughtful wife...I am going to be a more attentive mother...I am going to smile more...I am going to help others feel the love of their Savior.

I am not expecting to master those goals over night (wouldn't that be nice;)...but I do have high expectations for myself of trying each day to do better and be better. Thankfully I have the best partner in the world, and I can't wait to go over our specific goals and discuss how we'll help each other make them happen. This next year with Adam is going to be incredible. Our little boy Brooks will turn 2 (two!) and we'll be adding another sweet babe into our family...who knows what else 2012 will hold for us. I can't wait to find out :)

Now for a little bit of our New Years Celebration! We said goodbye to 2011 at home sweet home :) The first of the night was just the 3 of us...perfection. We made pear & gorgonzola pizza, said "cheers" as we clinked our glasses of sparkling grape juice, snuggled, and I enjoyed kisses from both of my boys :) Then a little after 11pm my parents and 2 of my sisters pulled in from their drive from Washington! We were able to enjoy Nutella on toast then stuff 12 grapes in our mouth at midnight, for good luck of course...followed by a few rounds of Balderdash and the girls stayed up to watch "Ever After" (a favorite among us sisters)...

It was so wonderful to ring in the New Year with Adam and some of my family!

Wishing all of you a BRIGHT NEW YEAR!!! :)

And tomorrow Brooks and I are driving with my fam (Adam has to work, we'll miss him!) up to BYU-Idaho to help take Corrie and Celeste to school for the winter semester. I'm so excited!! Celeste is a freshman at college, and oh she has some amazing things ahead of her. :)

What's been making me terribly happy this week...

2011-12-29T20:21:00.000-08:00

1. Sharing a PB&J almost daily with Brooks. Hits the spot every time.

2. The smell of our new fabric softener, Ultra Downy in Orchid Allure, epic :)

3. Enjoying breakfast for dinner last night. YUM.

4. Watching The Mentalist with Adam.

5. Having our cluttered bathroom counter cleaned and organized.

6. Hot bubble baths followed by wrinkly toes, and smooth, exfoliated feet.

7. Getting ready for my family to come this weekend!

8. Watching my belly do tricks...actually it's the babe inside doing the tricks ;)

9. Making Brooks smile when I create snakes and snowmen with his new Play-Doh.

10. Playing with my little naked jaybird today...

{ texted the picture above to Daddy at work }

What's made you terribly happy lately?? :)

Dear Brooks,

2011-12-29T09:45:00.000-08:00

You got your first hair cut! On Christmas. I don't think that was the smartest decision...because I was an absolute mess.

I probably told the barber (your sweet Daddy) to be sure to just trim it at least a thousand times. He was so great, especially with your head wiggling around every few minutes. Playing your beloved "Tangled" on Dad's laptop and giving you a sucker (or 3) did help with the wiggle-factor though :) Overall you did awesome! And you look so stinkin' cute.

I on the other hand, was snapping pictures and probably driving Dad crazy when I'd give him pointers...he has cut men's hair for years, and I've never cut hair in my life. I was just so nervous...but why??? Part of me dreaded the thought of this change...seeing your baby curls fall to the ground. I felt like it'd make you grow up instantly. Which is why just minutes before Dad finished, I left the kitchen and went to our room, and cried. (Goodness that's embarrassing to admit). But do you know what?? Right after your Dad cleaned up the mess of freshly trim hair, he put you in the tub...he and you played, and giggled together...watching and listening to you two made my heart happy and reminded me that you're still our little boy. You will grow up, I know. And I'm slowly but surely becoming more and more okay with that. Thanks for being patient with me ;)

Here are some of the photos I got...the one of you & me is the best picture we could get of some sweet kisses pre-trimming, you just couldn't take your eyes off Rapunzel ;)

Hey, you still have some curl! :) Of course with or without curls, I love you sweet boy.

Love forever,

Mom

PS - I most definitely saved some of your sweet locks. I couldn't help it :)

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Spiritual Health:

Worked on Personal Progress - Virtue #4

Read Moroni 10:32-33, The Book of Enos, Repentance section of For the Strength of Youth, and D&C 20:77, 79.

Physical Health:

More elliptical and pilates at the gym :) And my goal is to stay longer than an hour...

Christmas Weekend 2011

2011-12-27T10:36:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas weekend was full of:

Caroling with the Kjar family at 2 retirement homes. I love Christmas music...and seeing the smiles on the sweet elderly peoples' faces was magic.

***

Putting Brooks to bed veeeeery late on Christmas Eve (was it because he was so anxious for his presents the next day, or because his nap schedule that day was all sorts of crazy?)

***

After placing the presents under the tree, Adam and I snuggled up to a movie and shared a pint of Haagen-Dazs.

***

Opening presents with Little B!...that took fooooorreevver because he wanted to play with each gift before opening the next ;)

***

Making a breakfast of french toast from Kneaders cinnamon bread. SO GOOD.

***

Getting our wiggles out before church. Jumping on the bed with Dad is always a winner.

***

Enjoying a beautiful church service. Brooks gave Adam and I a little present and slept the whole time in my arms. Loved the messages of celebrating Christ's birth, listened to beautiful musical numbers, and soaked up every minute of my sleeping babe in my arms.

***

Brooks getting his first hair cut...he did great! Mom did not...more on that later ;)

***

A lovely Christmas dinner at Mom & Dad Kjars.

(During one of Brooks' melt downs, his Aunt Katie came to the rescue and let him share some of the Christmas ham with her sweet dog Milo. Brooks & Milo both loved it!)

***

Talking to Danner!! (Adam's brother who's serving a mission for our church in California)

***

Face-timing with my family :) Can't wait to see them this upcoming weekend!

***

Going to see a movie Monday afternoon in our PJ's..."We Bought A Zoo" was darling.

***

Brick oven pizza, games, and dancing at the Kjars. Such a fun night!

And do you know what?? While we were able to enjoy a beautiful weekend with our family...there were certain plans/traditions that fell through and didn't happen, and for whatever reason Brooks was having a really hard couple days. Christmas was wonderful, yet it wasn't quite as I had hoped. Through tears (pregnancy hormones anyone?) I expressed my selfish feelings to Adam Sunday night...he was so sweet and just listened...and by the end of my little crying session I felt such a strong feeling of the Savior's love for me. I told Adam that even though it wasn't a "perfect" Christmas with our normally cheerful boy, all those little things didn't matter. This incredible holiday is dedicated to celebrating Christ and His miraculous birth into the world. I love Him. And I'm so grateful for His example and unconditional love for me. And because of Him and His gospel, our little growing family of 3 (almost 4) can be together forever! I love Christmas and how it reminds our hearts of what's most important!

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Spiritual Health:

Read "What Happily Married Couples Do" in the January 2012 Ensign magazine.

Loved it, and I'm excited to read it again with Adam tonight :)

Physical Health:

Going to the gym...kind of excited because I haven't done anything really physical over the past four days, yowza.

Dear Christmas,

2011-12-26T11:31:00.000-08:00

I'm glad your festivities aren't over quite yet :)

xo,

Haley

This holiday season went by quicker than any I can remember, so knowing that Adam has the day off and we have fun plans with family this afternoon (going to see a matinee) and tonight (games & Christmas dinner leftovers) makes me happy!

This weekend was a wonderful, relaxing, tender one for our little family! Even though the sweet little boy in the picture above may have been a bit Grinch-y at times ;) I'm excited to share the rest of our Christmas happenings, but for now I'm off to be with my boys :)

May your days be Merry and Bright!

2011-12-23T09:51:00.000-08:00

{ front of our Christmas card we sent out this year }

Wishing you the happiest of holidays, the sweetest Christmas (in just 2 days!), and the brightest New Year!

xo,

Adam, Haley, Brooks, and Baby

Our Christmas-filled home

2011-12-22T09:49:00.000-08:00

Lots of red and green

Nativities

Candles and cards

Paper Snowflakes

Festive sweets

Our tree all decorated

Kisses for the baby Jesus in his manger

You can be sure that all of our Christmas goodness will stay up 'til my birthday at the end of January...it just makes my heart too happy to take it down any earlier :)

** Disclaimer: I wish I could say I made the caramel-chocolate apples...but they were sweet gifts from my friend Penny who made them! :) And just in case some are wondering, I got the idea for the cupcakes on Pinterest here, too cute to pass up!

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Spiritual Health:

I finished my reading of the Book of Mormon yesterday! Can't wait to share my thoughts on reading it this time around :) Today I watched this wonderful video:

"Wise Men Still Seek Him"

It's short and incredibly moving :)

Physical Health:

Doing some pilates that my sweet cousin in-law did with me last night after a family christmas party. Thanks Ali! My legs are going to be burnin' :)

Checking out books & Stealing kisses

2011-12-21T09:01:00.000-08:00

How is it that I have lived in this area for over 3 years and yesterday was my first visit to the local library?? I don't know...but let me just tell you that I was so excited to text my Mom (an absolute book-lover and the most magical storyteller I know) pictures of Brooks and I at the library :) And I can't wait to have her and Brooks go on a library date when my family comes for New Years...there's nothing like story time with Grandma!

It was my friend Kira who initiated this library visit, and I'm so glad! Our little ones had a great time picking out books, but I think they (or at least Brooks) mostly enjoyed running through the stacks...I may have instigated some of that. He was just too cute and hilarious sneaking around on his fast little feet, playing peek-a-boo around the shelves of books.

A few books were chosen and checked out, can't wait to read them with Little B.

And first kisses were had...sitting in a tree! ;)

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Spiritual Health:

Read Moroni 7-10

"But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God." -- Moroni 7:13

Physical Health:

Busy day ahead...we'll see if a workout fits it...*sigh*

26 weeks in bright Christmas lights ;)

2011-12-20T08:27:00.000-08:00

Dear baby,

We're almost to the third trimester! Wahoooo!! Okay, I just had to let that out. :) You're about the size of an eggplant now. And you've been soaking up my anti-bodies to build up your immune system so that you can fight off germs once you get out into the world. I hope and pray you don't get sick as an infant, I have a few friends whose little ones have caught bad bugs lately and it just breaks my heart. So I better go make me a green smoothie full of spinach to give you some good vitamins!

Thinking of sharing a green smoothie with you makes me happy :) And you know what else makes me happy?? Knowing who's going to take your newborn photos! I entered a giveaway last week for a photography session by a wonderful photographer...and we won!! Soon after you're born in March, we'll be able to get all sorts of sweet photos of you...in all your tiny, precious infant glory. Oh I am giddy :)

And little one, I may already be embarrassing you...that first picture of me wrapped up in the Christmas lights sure made your Daddy-o get a good laugh while taking the picture!...behind my grin I'm actually trying to hold back the giggles too! I look kinda silly I think, but I've seen similar photos that are just darling and thought we could add a little Christmas cheer to this baby-bump photo journal. There are just 5 days left 'til Christmas! Can you feel my anticipation?? :)

Love you always,

Mom

PS - Dad took the baby bump shots of me before church on Sunday, and later Sunday night the extended Kjar family got together and the young cousins read the story of Christ's birth from the Bible. The kids each had a part and got dressed up to act while the story was being told...your older brother was supposed to be one of the wise men. But he wasn't in the mood to wear his regal robe and crown, but instead took a front seat for the little play and snuggled with his yellow blankie...such a sassy little guy he is. I wonder what kind of personality you'll have... :)

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Spiritual Health:

Read Moroni 2-6

Very short chapters...but full of incredible verses, including the sacramental prayers. I'm so grateful for the sacrament and the chance each Sunday I have to renew my covenants I made at baptism and think of my Savior and His ultimate sacrifice.

Physical Health:

30 minutes of the elliptical at home and lots of stretching...stretching never felt so good!

Zoo Lights & Rootbeer Floats

2011-12-19T12:55:00.000-08:00

We were able to enjoy part of this past weekend with my sister Corrie!

She finished another semester up at BYU-Idaho (wahoo!) and was able to spend a day with us before driving back to Washington with one of her best friends :)

Saturday night I wanted to do something fun and festive with her so we went to see the Hogle Zoo Lights. The lights displays were neat, but sadly we saw more lights than animals (some cute monkeys and two parrots that Brooks loved). I guess I can't expect much more when there's snow on the ground and the temperature is below freezing... But being together made it a good night :)

Then we headed to Hires Big H to catch a late dinner...oh their homemade-rootbeer floats are GOOD. And yes, we did enjoy our float before our burgers ;) I think starting and ending a meal with something sweet is the way to go.

Our day with Corrie went by much too fast...but it was nice that we could say, "See you in a couple weeks!"

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Spiritual Health:

Read Ether 12-15 and Moroni 1

"And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness, I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." -- Ether 12:27

Physical Health:

Does running around shopping, wrapping, and mailing presents count?? ;)

The Fourth Wise Man

2011-12-18T19:38:00.000-08:00

On Friday night, our ward at church had a Christmas dinner for the adults. As you can see from the second photo, they transformed the gymnasium into a winter wonderland with white lights strung from the ceiling and paper snowflakes galore...each table had beautiful Christmas china that people brought from their homes...and the center pieces were unique Nativities. It was a lovely affair (that sadly Adam and I weren't able to be to because I waited to long to find a babysitter...) but I did go for part of it because I was in a play performed after everyone enjoyed their dessert, theater in the round! :)

It was a play written and adapted from The Fourth Wise Man, a sweet children's book. It tells of a fourth wise man who is on a journey to meet the Christ child and give him 3 precious jewels...but on his way, he is confronted with opportunities to serve his fellow men. He ends up using his jewels to serve and save lives, including my character's baby. And after using his last jewel to pay for the freedom of an enslaved woman, he finds out his Savior had just been crucified...he had been on his journey for 33 years...and never met Christ. But the whole way, he was serving those around him, and therefore serving his Savior.

It was incredible to be apart of the play. The story touched my heart, and inspires me to think of those around me and what I can do for them...that is the best gift I can give to my Savior this Christmas.

Party of two & three quarters

2011-12-16T09:23:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Brooks and I were lucky enough to meet up with my sweet cousin Kirstey for a late lunch of sushi! When we walked into the restaurant, the server asked, "Party of two?" and I said, "and a half, counting Brooks." :) And with a big smile, looking at my belly, Kirstey corrected me and said, "Two and three quarters!" Goodness I love that girl! We enjoyed edamame, gyoza (Brooks looooooved it), and I had a delicious veggie roll. Almost made me forget how much I miss the good (raw) stuff.

After sushi, we headed to Kirst's apartment :) She was so great and let Brook have a bouncing, dance party on her bed. We blasted the music and had fun laughing our heads off while watching Brooks' awesome dance moves ;) Then she made hot cocoa for us, and we visited some more...and played some more. Brooks LOVED having Kirstey chase him around the apartment, and running into her arms after saying, "Ready??....Set??...GO!"

Time went by much too quickly and before you knew it was getting dark and we knew we had to leave for dinner...but we loved every minute with you Kirst! Thanks for spending the afternoon with us, and for letting us see your darling apartment...that little Christmas tree made me all sorts of happy :)

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Spiritual Health:

Read Mormon 5-9, Ether 1

"...give thanks unto God that he hath made manifest unto you our imperfections, that ye may learn to be more wise than we have been." --Ether 1:31

Love this. Learn from history and don't make the same mistakes that others have made and I can avoid...

Physical Health:

Resting today...

Dear Brooks,

2011-12-15T08:14:00.000-08:00

"Young boys should never be sent to bed...they always wake up a day older."

Those sweet words were said by Mr. Barrie in the lovely movie "Finding Neverland." The other day you got to spend some time with Daddy at his office, while I went to the dentist...and while having my tooth worked on I was able to watch that movie :) I've seen it many times, but while watching it that day, in the dentist's chair, with a little pillow under my lower back, and my hands on my growing belly...my thoughts went to you, sweet boy, and the baby we'll be having in March. Lately, Dad and I think it's because of your 2-year molars, you have been getting up and crying just an hour or two after being put to bed...and when I've gone in to rock you back to sleep I have found myself actually thanking my Heavenly Father because I know there aren't many of those days left that I can hold you like that in my arms. Brooks, you are growing more and more everyday...physically, mentally, emotionally...and you're becoming more of a boy and less of my baby. My heart kind of hurts thinking about it...

But then, I think of the sweet memories we've had together and how there's only more to come. I just need to savor every day with you with more passion and more patience. And before I know it, there will be another baby in my arms, and you'll be big enough to hold and snuggle him or her too! I'll be right there with you of course :) You're going to be an amazing big brother.

By the time you read this letter, you'll probably know that I am quite the night owl, so if I could have it my way, I would be more than okay with never sending you to bed...doesn't staying up in a blanket-fort eating popcorn, gummi bears, and watching movies forever sound fantastic? ;)

...because all too quickly, you wake up one day older every morning after I put you to bed.

And now you, my once tiny infant, wake up as a smiley, sassy, eats-oatmeal-with-peaches-all-by-himself big boy.

And I love it.

Love always and forever,

Mom

*************************************************************************

Spiritual Health:

Read Mormon 1-5

Physical Health:

Going to the gym after a sushi date (veggie rolls only) with my cousin! I'll have to do some extra squats for sure after all that rice ;)

A Few of My Favorite Things...Guest Post!

2011-12-14T08:30:00.000-08:00

I sure hope everyone is loving the holiday season as much as I am!

I can't believe there are just 11 days 'til Christmas...I plan to soak up all of my favorite things before it's over! And I'm actually sharing a few of my favorite things that revolve around the Christmas season over at one of my VERY favorite blogs: Hudson's Happenings. I was so excited when Ashley asked me to share a post with her for her Countdown to Christmas! There are other lovely ladies too sharing all sorts of Christmas goodness...like the perfect holiday outfit, celebrating abroad, and there will be more coming!

I'd really love for you to go check it out my guest post here :) And while you're there...if you want to put an extra big smile on your face, just take a peak at Ashley's sweet life with her beautiful son and handsome husband, you won't regret it :)

PS - Isn't that banner at the top of my post cute!? Ashley created it :) She is one talented chica!

2011 ~ Our Family Photos

2011-12-13T19:38:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we had our family photos taken by Adam's sweet, and very talented cousin Malissa Mabey. She is an incredible photographer, and was so great to work with! We had a fun evening with her, and she was so patient with us...even after this silly momma tried to get a photo of my boys with my phone and Brooks went a little crazy because I wouldn't let him play with it ;) And while the gorgeous sun was shining, it was chiiiiiilly so Brooks was definitely ready to be done and get warm when we finished.

These are precious photos to us...thank you so much Melissa!

Malissa was even sweet enough to get a few maternity shots of me and my growing belly :)

I love them.

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Spiritual and Physical Health:

Refer to the post from earlier today :)

Eggnog Tapioca Pudding

2011-12-13T09:08:00.000-08:00

One of the sweetest memories I have is when Adam came to meet my family in Washington for the first time, while we were dating in college, over Christmas break in 2007. I was so excited for them to fall in love with him like I had :) One of the fun things we did was making eggnog tapioca pudding. Adam told us about how it's one of his family's Christmas traditions, and it was a hit in our house too!

Last Sunday I hosted a dinner at our home for some of the Kjar family and I made the eggnog tapioca for dessert. It's really simple and incredibly delish, so I knew I'd have to share this festive treat here!

EGGNOG TAPIOCA PUDDING

Ingredients:

3 Tablespoons Minute Tapioca

2 cups eggnog

1 egg (separated into yolk & egg white)

Optional:

whipping cream

nutmeg

milk

Beat egg white in a medium bowl with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form (about 1-2 minutes) and set aside. In a medium saucepan, mix eggnog, egg yolk, and tapioca. Let it stand for 5 minutes. Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly (semi-constantly in my case;) until mixture come to a full boil (doesn't stop bubbling when stirred). It took almost 20 minutes for my eggnog mixture to get to the boil. Remove from heat, then quickly stir in whipped egg white until well blended. Pour tapioca into another bowl to cool in fridge for about 10 minutes, stir again, then pour into serving dishes and let fully cool in fridge until you're ready to enjoy them!

NOTE: This yields 2 cups of tapioca, and it's very thick and custard-like after being chilled. Stir in a little milk (1/2 cup more or less) & nutmeg if you want to thin it out before pouring it into the serving dishes. And you can top it with fresh whipped cream and sprinkled nutmeg to add a sweet touch :)

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Spiritual Health:

Read 3 Nephi 22-26

"Bring ye all the tithes unto the storehouse, that there may be meat in my house; and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of Hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour out a blessing that there shall not be room enough to receive it." -- 3 Nephi 24:10

A huge blessing that I absolutely feel has come from paying our tithing, is that our home insurance adjuster came yesterday and said that they'll replace our whole roof after the wind storm a couple weeks ago! :)

Physical Health:

40 minutes on the elliptical at home...and lots of stretching.

The Kjar family came over :)

2011-12-12T11:14:00.000-08:00

Some of the Kjar family came over yesterday for a sweet evening of dinner and tapioca pudding (recipe coming tomorrow) which is a Kjar family tradition. Before the dinner, of chicken tortilla and creamy farmhouse chicken and garden soup, sweet Grandma and Grandpa Kjar brought some early Christmas gifts for Brooks to open. A sweet Christmas book, cozy PJs, and that adorable, dancing bear! It sings this hilarious hip-hop Christmas song and shakes his shoulders and cute little bear bum ;) Brooks LOVES it! And Adam and Little B couldn't help but dance the night away with the bear, by the Christmas tree, after everyone left.

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Spiritual Health:

Read 3 Nephi 17-21

"...[Jesus] wept, and the multitude bare record of it, and he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them. And when he had done this he wept again; And he spake unto the multitude, and said unto them: Behold your little ones. And as they looked to behold they cast their eyes toward heaven, and they saw angels descending out of heaven as it were in the midst of fire; and they came down and encircled those little ones about, and they were encircled about with fire; and the angels did minister unto them." --3 Nephi 17:21-24

]I absolutely LOVE reading about when Christ visits the people in America, after being resurrected, and how He blesses and prays for the children. Such a loving, humble Savior He is.

Physical Health:

Going to the gym...elliptical here I come :)

24.5 weeks in rosy pink lace

2011-12-10T20:39:00.000-08:00

Dear Baby,

You are going to be in my arms in about 3 months. Whoa. I feel like I want to make a paper chain to count down the number of days to your due date! Maybe I will :)

You, little one, are a mover and a shaker already! Always reminding me that you're inside this growing belly of mine...your favorite thing is to get up high and nudge my ribs, especially on my right side. Your older brother did that a lot too actually...which makes me wonder if you're another little boy in there! I wish I could say I have some sort of motherly intuition about it...but I really am not sure. We'll see when we meet you in March! Oh that moment will be incredible.

And we got our family photos taken today! I'm so glad that you were in them with us, well kind of. And next year you'll be smiling in them...which puts a huge smile on my face just to think about!

Love you forever,

Mom

PS - Just thought I'd share a sweet photo of your Dad and brother I snagged earlier tonight while Malissa took the real shots. Goodness I love those boys, and I know you will too :)

Christmas Caroling

2011-12-07T20:04:00.000-08:00

Tonight I went caroling with the youth from our church.

We all came bundled up in scarves, hats, and gloves. (the gloves in the picture aren't mine, but they sure are cute!) Lists of the carols for us to sing were passed around...and we sang our hearts out :) Whether there was a bit of an echo (different tempos make for a neat effect right?) or we were on tune or not, it was so great to see the smiles on the faces of the wonderful families and sweet widows we sang to. Caroling brings in the Christmas spirit like nothing else! Especially when it's followed by hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies.

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Spiritual Health:

Read Helaman 8-12

Physical Health:

Another day to relax...will make up for it tomorrow.

MISSION SANTA CLAUS:

2011-12-06T13:52:00.000-08:00

ACCOMPLISHED

Last night right after my workout at the gym, Brooks and I met up with Adam (who got off work a little early, yes!) to visit our sweet friend Cyndi (Adam's second mom growing up) at her office where they had Santa Claus :) I was so excited to bring Brooks!...even though he doesn't understand the concept of Santa at all, I've looked forward to getting this classic photo for sweet memories. Honestly I expected a sassy look from Brooks, or tears, or for him to slither out of Santa's arms onto the floor (I mean, at first he could barely handle my wig this past Halloween, and Santa's beautiful beard is pretty intense;)...but instead he sat there, candy cane in hand, with a stoic look for about 30 seconds while we tried to get a smile out of him. We sang Wiggles' songs and played peek-a-boo...but you know what worked? Saying "Ready?....Set?..." then Brooks proudly said "GO!" followed by that cheeky grin you see in the first photo ;)

He even gave Father Christmas a few high-fives!...probably scoring brownie-points so he'll get some gummy snacks in his stocking. ha!

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Spiritual Health:

Read Helaman 3-7

"Nevertheless they did fast and pray oft, and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, unto the filling their souls with joy and consolation, yea, even to the purifying and the sanctification of their hearts, which sanctification cometh because of their yielding their hearts unto God." -- Helaman 3:35

Physical Health:

Relaxing today...lots of stretching involved though :)

A splendid weekend indeed.

2011-12-05T13:01:00.001-08:00

Our splendid weekend was full of

frosties and fries,

lots more paper snowflakes,

homemade BBQ chicken pizza,

a very short game of Scrabble by Christmas tree light,

plenty of tub time for Little B,

making delish chicken tortilla soup,

Brooks-sandwich-kisses,

preparing for another wind storm that luckily wasn't as bad as forecasted,

at-home pedicure by yours truly,

brownies a la'mode,

the most charming stockings were purchased,

and drumroll please...........

we finished decorating the tree!! haha :)

Brooks loved "hanging" the ornaments on the branches with Mom, and playing wrapping-paper-sword-fights with Dad.

Basically we consumed food in our PJ's the whole weekend. Mhmm :)

*********************************************************

Spiritual Health:

Read Alma 61-63 and Helaman 1-2

Physical Health:

Going to the gym after Brooks wakes up from his nap...the stairmaster and treadmill can bring it.

Remembering why we celebrate...

2011-12-04T21:30:00.000-08:00

{ My sweet Mom took this photo of my family's nativity at home sweet home in Washington...makes my heart happy }

Tonight, Adam and I snuggled together and watched the First Presidency Christmas Devotional that our church puts on every year. We heard incredible Christmas music, and listened to the beautiful words of our Prophet and his counselors. Deiter F. Uchtdorf's message touched me deeply...reminding me to not focus on the minor, monetary things of Christmas (although they are wonderful:) but to remember and truly devote my heart to celebrating the birth of Christ. His words are inspiring:

"We have in our minds a picture of how everything should be. The perfect tree, the perfect lights, the perfect gifts, and the perfect family events. We might even want to recreate some magical moment we remember from Christmases past and nothing short of perfection will do. Sooner or later something unpleasant occurs. The wooden blocks tumble, the drapes catch fire, the turkey burns, the sweater is the wrong size, the toys are missing batteries, the children quarrel, the pressure rises, and the picture-perfect Christmas we imagined, the magic we had intended to create, shatters around us. As a result the Christmas season is often a time of stress, anxiety, frustration, and perhaps even disappointment. But then, if we are only willing to open our hearts and minds to the Spirit of Christmas, we will recognize wonderful things happening around us that will direct, or redirect, our attention to the sublime. It is usually something small. We read a verse of scripture, we hear a sacred carol, and really perhaps listen to its words for the first time. Or we witness a sincere expression of love. In one way or another the Spirit touches our hearts and we see that Christmas in it's essence is much more sturdy and enduring that the many minor things in life we too often use to adorn it with. In these precious moments we realize what we feel and know in our heart that Christmas is really about the Christ. It is Christmas and some of the cherished traditions of the season that remind us that we, like the wise men of old, should seek the Christ and lay before him the most precious of gifts: a broken heart and contrite Spirit. We should offer him our love. We should give him our willingness to take upon ourselves His name and walk in the path of discipleship. We should promise to remember him always, to emulate his example, and to go about doing good."

Thank goodness for DVR, I was able to rewind (and rewind some more;) in order to type all of that as I heard it...it's such a beautiful message I couldn't resist recording it!

Paper Snowflakes 101

2011-12-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my girl Janette for sharing this fabulous link to Vintage Junky's easy snowflake tutorials, I've been a snowflake-making fiend! Michelle of Vintage Junky shares tutorials for 3 different snowflakes...which include how to fold the paper (very important!), then how to cut it to get absolutely lovely snowflakes. I really liked how she shows how to turn a rectangle piece of paper, into a square, then fold and cut into the triangle that unfolds into a hexagon (6 sides) for the perfect snowflake base-shape.

Above and below are 3 more tutorials that I created (just the cutting, go to her site here for the easy paper folding instructions) from looking at the photo of her snowflake display on her site. Just click on the photos below to enlarge and see better detail.

And I thought I'd share a few tips I came to learn:

-- You can't mess up. Some some of your snowflakes may be similar, but there's nothing exact about them and that's what makes them beautiful! Just like the real thing :)

-- Un-crease as you unfold. After cutting, you'll unfold to open and reveal your snowflake, be sure to un-crease each fold as much as possible so that it's flat.

-- "The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear." Okay, that's not exactly something I learned from cutting these snowflakes, but I did learn that from Buddy the Elf. And he's a snowflake cutting pro ;)

So far I've hung them from our chandelier in our dining room. I love the festive winter feel it brings into the room! And I'm excited to string them in the windows of our kitchen, and hang some on our Christmas tree. You can never have too many paper snowflakes.

And I'm sharing this over at Whipperberry and Under The Table and Dreaming.

Go see what others are sharing! :)

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Spiritual Health:

Read Alma 51-55

The below verses are of the 2,060 stripling warriors...love their example! Hope to teach my son to be the same.

"And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all—they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted. Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him." --Alma 53:20-21

Physical Health:

Yoga at home. Mmmmm yes :)

Awkwardly Awesome?...or Awesomely Awkward?

2011-12-01T13:55:00.000-08:00

My life is full of "awkward" moments, and luckily plenty of "awesome" ones too. They are usually intertwined...here are a few (okay, more than a few) as of late.

AWKWARD:

Making the process of putting up our tree take almost 3 weeks...last week we put it up, this week we strung the lights, this weekend we'll hang ornaments.

AWESOME:

The Christmas tree glow makes my heart oh-so happy.

AWKWARD:

Untangling Christmas lights. Period.

AWESOME:

While putting up the lights we sipped on hot cocoa and ate Pirouette cookies. And after, I sat on the ground, Adam laid his head on my lap, and we played the "Remember when...?" game from our time of dating. So many wonderful memories...

AWKWARD:

Brooks being in a stage of hitting when he gets frustrated.

AWESOME:

Brooks also being in this kissing stage and I LOVE IT. He puckers up his lips and says "mmmmmmm!" before he gives me, or his toys, or his books, or the wall a kiss.

AWKWARD:

Having about every other stranger call Brooks a girl. Curly hair does not always equal female, people! The blue hoodie, green shirt, and blue binky would have clued them in you think ;)

AWESOME:

I love his hair. Even if some days it's mullet-ish or may look girly :)

AWKWARD:

On the flight to Spokane last week, I had to lay down in the isle of the airplane because I felt like I was either going to pass out or throw up...then right as we landed I ended up using the "Feel Better Soon" bag. ugh.

AWESOME:

Brooks was such a good boy both to and from Spokane :)

AWKWARD:

While mattress shopping, Brooks was jumping and rolling all over the mattresses (don't worry, he took a good, long bath when we got home) and within about 2 minutes his hair started to look like Harry's from "Dumb & Dumber."

AWESOME:

Brooks enjoyed every second though :) He was a bouncing maniac and laughed 'til he could barely breath. I love my crazy boy.

AWKWARD:

A tooth that had a cavity filled recently has been killing me, on and off, the past week. I went in to the dentist yesterday for my bi-annual cleaning and a checkup on that tooth...turns out it needs a root canal.

AWESOME:

While the hygienist was checking my teeth, she said, "Your teeth are looking great, do you floss?" "Ummm thanks...but I don't as much as I should." (which means I did today, but haven't in weeks) She then told me that not flossing causes the bacteria that doesn't get cleaned away with a toothbrush to get into my system and bloodstream...which can get into the placenta and have negative effects on my baby like low birth weight, illnesses after birth, and even miscarriage. Yikes! I said, "That definitely makes sense, I just hadn't thought about it before. Hey...I guess I'm flossing to save lives!" We both laughed :) But I think I laughed a bit harder than her because I was thinking about my girl Phoebe when she used that line ;) hahaHA.

AWKWARD:

Having to leave my phone on silent all day because when Brooks hears it he goes bazurk if I don't let him play with it...when he does, it leads to accidental phone calls and deleted apps. I've created a little iphone monster ;)

AWESOME:

When we call or face-time my Mom he gets SOOOOO excited :) Iphone + Grandma...Brooks is in heaven.

AWKWARD:

Telling Adam that I love how after he leaves for work, the bathroom still smells like him. After getting a weird look from him, I corrected myself, "I mean, the scent of your cologne lingers in the bathroom and I love it!" ;)

AWESOME:

Adam's new cologne makes me weak in the knees.

AWKARD:

Realizing it has been x-number of months since bringing Adam lunch from home (other than leftovers).

AWESOME:

Made and brought my man lunch at work yesterday :)

AWKWARD:

Eating tapioca pudding cups with a baby spoon.

AWESOME:

Eating tapioca pudding cups with a baby spoon.

AWKWARD:

My workout shirt barely covered my belly at the gym yesterday. Good thing I had a long tank top on under ;)

AWESOME:

Brooks doing great at the gym's play area! Even if it was just for 40 minutes :) And I had an great workout, can't wait to go back today!

AWKWARD:

Cleaning out the room next to Brooks' that will be baby's room. It's been a catch-all area...and goodness do we have a lot of junk.

AWESOME:

It's not all junk though, I went through and organized, by size, the boxes and bags of Brooks' old clothes. I forgot how little he was, so many sweet memories came flooding back. AND it gets me excited to think about a new little one filling all those white onesies.

AWKWARD:

Brooks has figured out he can fake cry.

AWESOME:

When it is a legitimate cry, after getting hurt for example, I've found out my lips have magic powers...many of Brooks' owies get better after just a kiss or two ;)

AWKWARD:

Having an insane wind storm come through our area last night and this morning (wind gusts reaching 82 mph in our city)...power went out so we had no heat...our fence and shingle-filled yard are quite the site (see picture below)...and the wind was so loud it felt like we were in a tornado, so we (more Adam) didn't get much sleep (he and Brooks are taking a nap as I type this actually).

AWESOME:

Brooks slept like a log the whole time, waking up happy as a clam. Then we got cozied up and headed to Salt Lake to escape our chilly house, and shop a bit...and I found a fantastic winter coat!! It covers my baby belly perfectly, and it has pretty buttons, so I'm one happy girl :)

AWESOME:

Listening to Adam sing The Wiggles songs to Brooks. Cutest thing ever.

AWESOME:

It's Adam's day off from work!!

(yep, that's two awesome's in a row)

(This post was inspired by Sydney over at The Daybook...she has fantastic Awkward+Awesome Thursdays...but today she shared the birth story of her son. It was beautiful, and got me even more excited to bring our little one into the world!)

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Spiritual Health:

Read Alma 41-45

"Therefore, my son, see that you are merciful unto your brethren; deal justly, judge righteously, and do good continually; and if ye do all these things then shall ye receive your reward; yea, ye shall have mercy restored unto you again; ye shall have justice restored unto you again; ye shall have a righteous judgement restored unto you again; and ye shall have good rewarded unto you again." -- Alma 41:14

Physical Health:

Going to the gym again :) Maybe doing a Body Step class (let's hope I don't fall with my horrible balance) and I'm getting back on that stair master that has made my legs and hips sooooooooore today.

22 weeks in a cozy scarf & boots

2011-11-30T09:45:00.000-08:00

Dear Baby,

Your sweet little body (the size of a 2 pound papaya!) has been growing and developing in my belly for 22, almost 23, weeks now...22 is my lucky number :) I hope you can feel that. Maybe that's why you've been making stronger movements last couple weeks? Dad and I LOVE putting our hands on my belly to feel your big stretches, strong kicks, and high fives. (At least I like to think they're high fives;)

And I think you be gave me lots of high fives after Thanksgiving last week! You get a little bit of everything I eat...so you "tasted" moist turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes topped with gravy, cranberry sauce, fresh baked rolls, and cheesecake :) Along with getting a taste of Thanksgiving, I think you were also able to hear a bit of our Thanksgiving, because according to this neat website you should be able to hear sounds outside the womb. You heard a few lively debates during dinner ;) Then after, your Aunt Natalie took out a basket filled with little pieces of paper that your cousins had written on...they wrote about what they're grateful for, and we took turns reading them. It was so sweet. One day you and your brother will be able to share the little things that you're grateful for...oh I can't believe it!

And let me just say, I am SO grateful for you!! In every prayer I thank God for you.

Love always,

Mom

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Spiritual Health:

Read Alma 36-40

"Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day." -- Alma 37:37

Physical Health:

Going to the gym later today. Oh I need me some stair master :) Wish us luck that Brooks will stay in the play area and not cry...it's been a while!

Thanksgiving in Spokane

2011-11-29T13:32:00.000-08:00

We spent this Thanksgiving with some of my family in Spokane, Washington.

My sister Natalie and her husband Duane were such great hosts! Ten adults and eight kids filled their home for the Holiday weekend :) Adam, Brooks, and I...my Mom, Dad, and two sisters, Corrie and Celeste...and my brother and his wife, Nate and Jamie, with their little boy Wesley...all joined Natalie and Duane and their six sweet kidlets Amanda, Ryan, Adam, Aaron, Jason, and Amber. It made for a full house, and lots of fun memories! We all enjoyed a relaxing weekend full of:

piano music

card games and hot cocoa

time with Grandma and Grandpa

playing outside

lively debates

the kids making a fantastic fruit turkey

enjoying a DELICIOUS Thanksgiving feast

pies galore...the homemade cheesecakes (chocolate & blueberry) were my favorite

cozy naps

reading a sweet list of what Natalie's kids are grateful for :)

kickball at the park

cinnamon rolls with Grandma

Nerf wars at the gym of the church

turkey sandwich leftovers

wrestling

kissing on baby Wesley!

While it was so wonderful to come home sweet home, we miss all of them already!

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Spiritual Health:

Read Alma 31-35

"And behold, as the tree beginneth to grow, ye will say: Let us nourish it with great care, that it may get root, that it may grow up, and bring forth fruit unto us. And now behold if ye nourish it with much care it will get root, and grow up and bring forth fruit.

"But if ye neglect the tree, and take no thought for its nourishment, behold it will not get any root; and when the heat of the sun cometh and scorcheth it, because it hath no root it withers away, and ye pluck it up and cast it out.

"But if ye will nourish the word, yea, the tree as it beginneth to grow, by your faith with great diligence, and with patience, looking forward to the fruit thereof, it shall take root; and behold it shall be a tree springing up unto everlasting life."

-- Alma 32:37-38, 41

Those verses were Alma's beautiful teachings of faith...but I also applied it to my marriage. If Adam and I plant our roots deep in the Gospel and constantly nourish them with love, patience, forgiveness, faith, compassion...we will grow together with the Lord. And when the storms and dreadfully hot sun comes in life, we'll stay strong and continue to grow individually and together :)

Physical Health:

Yesterday's workout on the elliptical at home kicked my toosh...today is a day of rest :)

Filled to the brim

2011-11-27T09:11:00.000-08:00

with gratitude.

I'm filled with gratitude for the wonderful holiday we just enjoyed with family. Eating delicious food with people we love and are so thankful for...it just can't be beat.

I'm filled with gratitude for my husband.

Adam is my better half. That man's love for me, and his dedication to fatherhood, helps me know my heart will always be safe. And snuggling with him after Thanksgiving dinner just happens to be heaven :)

I'm filled with gratitude for my son.

Brooks has blessed me with the gift of being a mother, and has caused my heart to grow in ways I never knew. His smile just lights up a room!

I'm filled with gratitude for the baby growing inside me.

Feeling our little one move around in my belly is the very sweetest feeling. And knowing that I'm in a partnership of creation with God is beyond incredible.

I'm filled with gratitude for my Heavenly Father and his Son, my Savior.

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have given me everything I have...and it is their love that has blessed me most in this life. Their Gospel makes it possible for me to be with my sweet family forever!

(These photos were from our trip to Spokane with my family this past Thanksgiving...what a great holiday it was with all of them! Can't wait to share the rest of the photos)

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Spiritual Health:

Read Alma 26-30

"Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; ...we will praise his name forever." -- Alma 26:12

DIY Paper Leaf Wreath

2011-11-21T18:23:00.000-08:00

I was so excited when, last week, my sweet friend Kira was up for getting together for our kids to have a play-date and for us to have a craft-date :) I've needed to get my creative juices flowing thanks to Pinterest! And while this is not an orignal project (I found the idea here, along with other great wreath ideas) I really enjoyed creating it. Even if it took me a few minutes of being dumb-founded on how to exactly do it, right Kira? haha ;)

Supplies needed:

- wreath form -

- paper of choice -

(book pages or sheet music...I found my sheet music here)

- pencil -

- scissors -

- glue gun (& glue;) -

STEP 1:

Get a good amount of the paper you want to use. I loved the "Silent Night" sheet music I found here :)

STEP 2:

Trace out leaf shapes with a pencil and start cutting!

STEP 3:

Take your wreath form and use the hot glue to line it with the paper leaves.

STEP 4:

Fold remaining leaves in half long-ways, then unfold to get a nice crease.

STEP 5:

Make clusters of leaves (the more leaves, the thicker the wreath will be) with a small amount of hot glue.

STEP 6:

Glue the leaf clusters around the wreath. Putting glue at the joint of the clusters, and behind a few of the tips of the leaves so that they lay flat.

STEP 7:

Display!

And when Adam gets home from work (any minute now!) we'll be putting up our Christmas tree for Family Night! I've wanted to since last week :) You can bet we'll be enjoying Christmas music, sipping peppermint hot cocoa, and snacking on kettle corn in between stringing lights and hanging ornaments. Oh how I love this time of year!

And I'm sharing this over at Whipperberry and Under The Table and Dreaming.

Go see what others are sharing! :)

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Spiritual & Physical Health:

Refer to the post the from earlier today :)

new babies, Cafe Rio, snuggles, & gingerbread houses

2011-11-21T13:55:00.000-08:00

...that's what good weekends are made of :)

{ Our sweet friends the Bradshaw's welcomed a little girl into their family!! Visiting Momma Penny and her beautiful Bailee at the hospital was such a treat! }

{ Adam came home Saturday evening from work ready to score some brownie-points with dinner in hand...Cafe Rio salads and tres leches were just what the babe and I were craving :) Thanks love! }

{ Brooks took this weekend as R&R time to get better from being a little sick and not being able to keep hardly any food down the last few days :( But I sure loved all the snuggles he gave me! }

{ Sunday we went to Mom & Dad Kjar's for a fun family night of decorating gingerbread houses! Oh how I love sweet holiday traditions }

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Spiritual Health:

Read Mosiah 25-29

"Yea, blessed is this people who are willing to bear my name; for in my name shall they be called; and they are mine." -- Mosiah 26:19

I'm grateful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Ladder-Day Saints :)

Physical Health:

"The Top 200 Challenge" workout --> which I cut in half...did each move only half the amount of times it calls for, and it still got me to feel the burn. Somehow carrying this 1.5 pound babe in my belly all day is a workout in and of itself ;)

Lift As You Climb

2011-11-20T14:56:00.000-08:00

After Adam got home from church (Brooks and I stayed home so that he could have a loooooonng nap and finish recovering from being sick this weekend) we watched a recorded episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. They were rebuilding the home of a man named Bernard who's a single father of three sons, and is a teacher who believes he can make a change in the lives of those he teaches and comes in contact with. Bernard said his life's motto is to "lift as you climb"...as you reach for your goals and work for self improvement, you should try to lift others up with you.

After we heard that inspiring message, Adam immediately said, "That totally describes your Dad." And I couldn't agree more. In a literal aspect, my Dad finds such joy in sharing his passion of climbing and backpacking with those he loves. Numerous family members and friends have summited various mountains and hiked gorgeous trails because of my Dad. As he's climbed, he has most definitely lifted those with him to reach their summit. Along with climbing mountains, my Dad is an amazing example of setting goals, making it through life's challenges, working hard, and constantly learning. He is always reading a good book and sharing what he's learning with those he loves. I look forward to whenever I get an email from him with a "gem thought" (inspiring quote) he's found. And I know that he loves serving the Young Men (ages 12-18) at church and strives to be an example to them of loving God and being strong and faithful through life's challenges.

I love my Dad, and I'm grateful he's lifted me through life's climb. And I want to wish him a HAPPY 60th BIRTHDAY!!!!! It was yesterday, and do you know what he wanted to do?...he wanted to enjoy a good, long 30 mile bike ride with my Mom :)

{ Dad skiing down from our Mt. Hood climb - April 2009 }

{ Grandpa (Dad) and baby Brooks - July 2010 }

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Spiritual Health:

Read Mosiah 20-24

Indian takeout at McDonald's

2011-11-18T10:04:00.000-08:00

When you want to get out of the house with your boys...

and you're craving lamb coconut kurma...

and you know your little boy is going to be too wiggly to sit down at the restaurant that serves that lamb coconut kurma...

there's only one think to do.

Okay, two...

Get Indian takeout and enjoy it at McDonald's.

Adam and I agreed it was a very, very good decision :)

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Spiritual Health:

Read Mosiah 10-14

Physical Health:

Yoga at home. Namaste :)

baby bump kisses & love taps

2011-11-16T21:08:00.000-08:00

The last couple days Brooks has been loving on the baby bump :)

Wanting to lift up my shirt, pet it and say "awwwwww" in his be-soft-voice, poke my belly button and say "beep," and give it lots of kisses. Makes me melt.

And I think that the babe has really been feeling the love because he or she kicked so big today that I was able to feel it with my hand on my belly! So of course I texted Adam right away, and told him how excited I was to have him feel the movement when he got home :) And tonight while we were snuggled together watching TV he was able to feel it!!

Love taps from our little one. Can't get enough.

Dear Brooks,

2011-11-14T12:13:00.000-08:00

Hi there sweet boy! Goodness it's been much too long since I've written you!

So, my little munchkin...we've been going through a bit of a phase...you and I have both been working on communicating with each other better. It's been so fun seeing your little personality come out more and more each day. But I can see you struggling with not being able to tell me, in words, what you want or need. When you get your mind on something that you want, you stick with it. You point, grunt, scream, say "peeeeeaaa!" (please) but I only know what all that means half the time...so we play the guessing game. A lot. Which I can only imagine is so frustrating for you. I'm also trying to be more patient and use the word "no" less...it's become your favorite word as of late, and I sadly think it's because of me. Brooks I love you. More than words can say. And this whole mom-gig is better than I imagined! But a lot harder too... I am so grateful for your patience with me. And I plan to keep working with you until we get it right. Your Daddy and I are always praying for you...never forget that.

You're napping right now, and I couldn't help but look through my phone at some sweet pictures of you I've captured the last couple weeks...goodness you make me smile!! While you have had plenty of sass recently, you sure know how to bring such joy into our home :)

Lately you've looooooooooved helping me with the dishes. As I load them into the dishwasher, you'll unload them by taking out the bowls and lining them up along the bench in the kitchen. Then you'll proceed to stack them...then put them back...and repeat. I'm not sure why you weren't wearing a shirt in these pictures, but I like it :)

The weekend before last, when your Aunt Corrie came to visit, we enjoyed granny smith apples dipped in caramel...and you mainly enjoyed the sticky caramel :) (and do you see the dry erase marker in your chin? yep, you're getting creative on canvases other than the white board and paper)

You and the park...a match made in heaven. Even with the temperatures dropping you have still loved it!! All you need is your beanie and a thermos of hot cocoa and you're good to go! Last time when we pulled up you about had a heart-attack of happiness because you could see the park through the windshield, we both starting clapping and cheering, it was the cutest thing.

Love you (and your heart-melting smile) forever,

Mom

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Spiritual Health:

Read Jacob 1-5

"...Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause..." --Jacob 3:1

Physical Health:

Elliptical for 30 minutes, crunches, jumping jacks, and planks...bring on the burn!

lucky birthday wishes

2011-11-11T08:13:00.000-08:00

Today is 11/11/11. A lucky day to many people. Especially at 11:11am and 11:11pm...any of you, like me, planning on making wishes? It's also a wonderful day that we honor the Veterans who have fought for our beautiful country. And (drum roll please...) it's the birthday of my Mom and my sister!

They are two of the best women I know. Love them to the moon and back!

My Mom is in Washington and Corrie is in Idaho...I'm so sad we can't all be together celebrating them! But you can be sure we'll be video chatting with both :) And Brooks will give each of them his "HAPPY BIRTHDAAAAAAY!!!" smile...it's pretty epic, and Corrie gets him to do it best :)

Couldn't resist making a fun doodle last night of the gorgeous birthday girls!

And you can bet your bottom dollar that both of my wishes (at 11:11am and pm) are for them :)

*****************************************************************

Spiritual Health:

Read 2 Nephi 29-23 (compare to Isaiah 9-13)

"Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also has become my salvation. ... Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things; this is known in all the earth." -- 2 Nephi 22:2, 5

Physical Health:

Feeling a bit under the weather...so I'll be napping with Brooks and drinking lots of apple juice :)

fantastic pho

2011-11-08T10:35:00.000-08:00

Last night for family night we went out for some delicious Vietnamese.

Pho Green Papaya was good to us. Brooks couldn't get enough pho soup...most of it landed in his mouth, but plenty landed on our booth's seats too ;)

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Spirtual Health:

Read 2 Nephi 4-8

"Rejoice, O my heart, and cry unto the Lord, and say: O Lord, I will praise thee forever; yea, my soul will rejoice in thee, my God, and the rock of my salvation." -- 2 Nephi 4:30

Physical Health:

Burning Body Workout (the name explains itself;)

Sunday highlights

2011-11-06T20:33:00.000-08:00

- The two boys pictured above...loved every minute watching them together this morning

- The sun that soaked my kitchen

- Seeing a thin layer of bright, white snow covering the grass and trees of our backyard

- Josh Groban's stellar Christmas music that was playing while I did dishes

- Getting ready for church with my sister Corrie, and changing our outfits at least 7 times

- Brooks being pretty much awesome during sacrament meeting (okay, during about 90% of the time;)

- Listening to my beautiful sister share her sweet testimony with our congregation

- Dipping graham crackers in eggnog with Corrie and our friend Shay after church

- Enjoying a huge and incredibly delicious dinner at Mama and Papa Kjar's

- After getting back home, seeing my sister hopping on the computer, and listening to her squeal and get all sorts of giddy because an incredible professor she has had before has a class open next semester (oh the good ol' college registration days!)

- We're about ready to snuggle up with 3 cups of warm Pero and watch 17 Miracles

Hope everyone enjoyed a beautiful Sunday.

Tomorrow's weather is looking like there will be snow, and lots of it. As long as I have my Christmas music, and I continue my search for this year's perfect winter boots and some new socks, I'm happy about that forecast :)

******************************************************************

Spiritual Health:

Read Nephi 16-20

Physical Health:

my day of rest :)

20 weeks in specs...and an ultrasound!

2011-11-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby,

Look at you! Well, look at your little arm, your tiny hand, and your precious foot! You were a bit shy and wouldn't show us your face at the 20-week ultrasound yesterday. The ultrasound tech said that you were snuggled right in and your head was down and facing my back...you were obviously pretty comfy because we searched for a long time but you never came out. Maybe come out and say "hi" next time, won't you? :) I'm just glad that you're growing strong and healthy though!! Both Dad and I are so happy. The doctor said your heart rate is great and your measurements are right on...and even moved your due date forward a day, to March 20th!

Well little one, you're now about the size of cantaloupe. A small cantaloupe I think. And at the ultrasound they said you're weighing about 14 ounces. Not even quite a pound, but almost fully developed!! You're such a miracle. OH! And I felt you for the first time this weekend!! It was in the morning...I was still laying in bed after your daddy had gone to the gym, and your sweet brother Brooks had just woken up and was playing in his crib (I just needed a few more minutes to kind of rest) and I felt this wonderful bubble-popping feeling in my lower belly! Oh I knew it was you. And I've felt it a few times since. I canNOT wait to feel you more and more as you get bigger. You're already moving like crazy (we definitely saw that at the ultrasound yesterday:) but as you get larger and your space seems to get smaller, I'll be feeling it all!

I love you baby, forever and ever,

Mom

PS - Dad and I went on a date yesterday to catch a matinee movie after your ultrasound. That's where I took my belly photos. :) Oh how I love that Daddy of yours. And can I tell you I'm actually really excited to tote you around on our dates while you're a tiny infant. But once you get too wiggly and bored with us lovebirds we'll have you and Brooks be together with the babysitter ;)

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Spiritual Health:

Read Nephi 6-10

"For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost..." Nephi 10:19 -- Adam and I are definitely counting on this scripture :)

Physical Health:

P90x workout (semi-toned down for my pregnant self) with my sister Corrie (she's in town!)

every little miracle

2011-11-03T08:52:00.000-07:00

Whether you're a mom, a mom-to-be, or someone who is in awe of the miracle of a new born babe (or all 3 like me:) watch this video. Actually, it's a commercial, and a fantastic one at that. The music, the images, the message...gets me teary-eyed every. time.

Today we are going in for our 20-week ultrasound (in just 3 hours actually!!). I'm like a kid at Christmas with every ultrasound. But this one is the best. It's extensive, and Adam and I get to spend a long time looking at our growing baby while the doctor checks everything out. We're not going to find ou this babe's sex, so when they start looking for the goods (or the lack there of;) we'll just look away. We did it with Brooks too, and we love it this way.

March is going to hold lots of sweet surprises for us!!

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Spiritual Health:

(Starting my challenge to read the entire Book of Mormon by Christmas...5 chapters a day)

Read Nephi 1-5

"...I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." -- Nephi 3:7

Physical Health:

Adam's day off...we're both just relaxing :)

Mix-matched socks at the Kangaroo Zoo

2011-11-02T12:52:00.000-07:00

Today I put Brooks in comfy sweats and mix-matched socks (they were the only ones I could find with the little grippy bottoms)...because we were going to the Kangaroo Zoo! We went because it was Brooks' little friend's 2nd birthday, HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANT!! :) Little B had a blast running around, jumping on the numerous bouncy houses, sliding down the huge slides with momma, and being able to be as loud as he wanted :)

{ Cute birthday boy above! }

This boy knows how to play hard!! He's napping now and I don't see him waking up any time soon ;)

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Spiritual Health:

Personal Progress - Virture Value Experience #3 (adapted:)

Read Alma 5 - Verse 14, "And now behold, I ask of you, my brethren of the church, have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye received his image in your countenances? Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?"

Physical Health:

Brooks definitely kept me active this afternoon ;)

But I also plan on some more time on the elliptical today.

Our Halloweekend...when Mario scored ;)

2011-11-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

This Princess Peach was most definitely preggo...so I guess you could say Papa Mario scored, right? haHA But really, the person who stole the show is our Little Luigi :)

Saturday we went to the Adam's parent's house for their Halloween Bash...we LOVED seeing everyone dressed up in costume, enjoying a delicious dinner with homemade roasted tomato and pumpkin curry soups, playing Halloween games, and devouring creepy, gummi body parts :)

{ Our Nintendo Family }

{ He and She Goblins -- Troll, Devil, Nutcracker's Clara, Little Bo Peep, Cowboy }

{ Family Triathlon -- 2 sweet old women (Sharla, on the right, is the one dressed up;) }

{ Tee/Golfball -- Scarecrow & witch }

Then on the day of All Hallow's Eve we lit the pumpkins we carved, headed out to go trick-or-treating (Brooks was in his stroller the whole time except for the one house where I got the picture:), then we enjoyed a fun party at Luke & Becca's full of sweet treats, a delicious dinner, crazy-hard Minute To Win It games, and lots of laughs because we'd be horrible players on that show. haha!

{ Triathlon fam (party hosts), Lighting McQueen & his Road, Nintendo fam, Ghost Busters fam }

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Spiritual Health:

"Pray Always"...an article and video with words from both President Thomas S. Monson and Elder Richard G. Scott.

I love that Elder Scott said, “Think of it: the absolute Supreme Being, the most all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful personage, encourages you and me, as insignificant as we are, to converse with Him as our Father." What a powerful blessing prayer is!!

Physical Health:

30 minutes on the elliptical and lots of stretching

Memory Lane: Halloweens gone by...

2011-10-31T10:08:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love reminiscing about fun memories?? Well Janette had this fantastic idea to start a little feature on her blog called "Memory Lane" where she'll share fun memories from the past...I knew I had to follow her lead! And today was perfect to share our costumes from Halloweens gone by...

Halloween 2007:

Chess Club Member and her smokin' hot Nerd boyfriend ;)

Halloween 2008:

M&Ms...I am plain and he has the nuts. Get it? heehee ;)

Halloween 2009:

"Peace and Quiet" (hippy and mime)

Halloween 2010:

(Brooks' first Halloween!)

Peter Pan, Wendy, and our little Lost Boy

And last year we hosted the annual Halloween Party for the managers from Adam's work (Jeremy & Camary, Luke & Becca & Samson, Eli & Alla & Avin). Adam's brother Ben and wife LaCol came too :) All of these people are our great friends, so we had a blast of a night!! We enjoyed soda with "dead, icy hands"..."freaky fajitas"..."deviled eye balls"...a "veggie graveyard"..."creepy caramel apples"..."ghostly fingers"...and other scary treats :) And after we had a blast playing Minute To Win It games, in our costumes and all!

We love our little Lost Boy!! :)

That was fun walking down memory lane...and *cheers* to more many memorable Halloweens to come! And I'm excited share this Halloween's happenings tomorrow :)

Hope everyone has a safe and Happy Halloween!!

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Spiritual Health:

Read Helaman 5

One of favorite verses of scripture is verse 12, "...remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall."

Physical Health:

It's a holiday so I'm taking the day off ;)