tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58011326612178217872012-01-26T09:54:55.772-05:00kierstenoreply@blogger.comBlogger3261100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-65755172540233457162012-01-24T09:30:00.002-05:002012-01-26T09:13:46.220-05:00

Ryan has always had a very real fear of being in front of people.  Even through the early years of elementary school, he wouldn't participate in any kind of show and tell, sharing day, or anything that would put him in the front of the class in any way--including celebrating his birthday. In Primary, even saying the prayer would enfold him in a state of panic.  His natural personality is to be

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-51909681212035349302012-01-23T08:30:00.002-05:002012-01-23T08:30:00.895-05:00

One minute is a long time. For Jack too.  ☺

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-70887881476183381182012-01-20T22:56:00.002-05:002012-01-21T09:40:55.781-05:00

I admit, I've had it good. My girls are 5 1/2, and I've picked out their clothes every day of their life...and they've let me with nary a complaint or word about it.  Lately they've wanted to wear more skirts, which I've obliged, but other than that, I have free reign.  I realize that this is not commonplace among the 5 year old set, but considering my penchant for wanting things my way (I know

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-69536874321482013642012-01-12T10:30:00.002-05:002012-01-12T13:09:40.407-05:00

Jack has a best friend.   His name is Daddy. He has always had an affinity for Rick--really from the time he was born--but over the last few months it has intensified. It's even earned Jack the nickname "b.f.", which I think is hysterical. And sweet. For example... When Rick is home, he is that only one that can hold Jack, change his clothes or diaper, get his food, pour his milk, or

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-76297975495407824512011-12-31T07:00:00.001-05:002011-12-31T16:35:46.224-05:00

I was spontaneous yesterday.   It doesn't happen as often as it maybe should, but everyone had the best time, and it taught me that sometimes those quick, spur-of-the-moment decisions can make some of the best memories.   I think we were dying to do something snow-related, since we have very little snow (including NONE on Christmas) and really haven't been able to get outside and do something fun

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-8699457910446170992011-12-30T07:00:00.001-05:002011-12-30T09:55:23.795-05:00

Christmas Eve is my favorite part of Christmas, even more than Christmas morning.  I think it may be the anticipation of what will be, and all the things you do to celebrate and prepare before the the moment arrives and it's time to come downstairs.  I love watching Christmas movies by the fire with mugs of hot chocolate, driving to see all of the Christmas lights, delivering treats to neighbors

kierstenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-83964123755357522842011-12-29T07:00:00.000-05:002011-12-29T07:00:12.480-05:00

Acting out the Nativity has long been one of our favorite Christmas Eve traditions. It usually takes at least five takes to get a presentable final product, especially with such little kids, and this year was no exception.  We had baby Jesus stolen from his manger by the shepherd, Joseph beat up by the shepherd (notice a trend here?), the angel was losing her robe, and Mary fell of the donkey.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-11120118650564165822011-12-27T11:45:00.000-05:002011-12-27T11:45:28.105-05:00

The last few weeks have been a blur.  Every year I talk about how busy the holidays were, but I think this year beats them all.  With the Nativity and concert, a wedding open house at our home, cooking a turkey dinner for 250 people (our ward Christmas party), plus all of the other festivities, activities, parties, and family traditions squeezed in, I was going non-stop. Needless to say,

kierstenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-64298715450115242042011-12-14T08:30:00.016-05:002011-12-14T08:30:56.012-05:00

Important conversation after finding one of the playroom pails dented in and smashed... Me:  What happened to the pail, Emma? Emma: (in her very small, but very matter-of-fact tone) I stood on it. Me: (in my not so small, but definitely matter-of-fact tone)  Why did you stand on it? Emma:  I wanted to see if it could hold me. Me:  And??? Emma:  It couldn't. Hmmm.  Good to know. ..... And

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-67916600961907425772011-12-08T05:00:00.001-05:002011-12-08T13:49:47.617-05:00

I feel like I really haven't stopped moving for the past couple of weeks. It's been busy x 1000, and it seems as though everything is in fast forward. It's a little past midnight, and as I'm sitting here typing, my eyes are feeling a little droopy, and all I want to do is turn off the light and go to sleep. I press on, because I know if I don't do it now there are no promises as to when it will

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-65426724232704012592011-12-06T12:00:00.003-05:002011-12-07T08:43:24.298-05:00

There is something so magical about the first snow. I love living in the country for many reasons, but the way all the trees look when the sun is shining through the snow and ice is breathtaking. The world was quiet, as if to remind us how incredible it really is. We woke up one morning last week to a perfectly white wonderland, and the kids could not wait to get outside.  The girls didn't have

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-16991291559446519592011-12-02T07:00:00.000-05:002011-12-02T07:00:16.373-05:00

I look forward to this day all year long--it is one of my absolute favorite Christmas traditions.  I can't imagine Christmas without a fresh-cut tree (our favorite is Concolor), filling the house with the most tantalizing smell. It was even more fun this year because my parents and sister's family were here with us, and it made for quite the outing as we headed to our favorite tree farm.  We

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-30276784228236080482011-11-30T07:00:00.001-05:002011-11-30T07:00:08.081-05:00

We counted down for weeks, waiting for my parents, and my sister and her family to come for Thanksgiving.  It was all very exciting for everyone, and when they finally arrived, my kids couldn't contain themselves (and neither could I). I just love that my sister is now close enough that we can see them for holidays--it's the first time since we've been married that that's been the case.  All of

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-73647192883605084802011-11-23T14:30:00.000-05:002011-11-23T14:52:58.532-05:00

First of all, I think it's really crazy that I'm even typing the word "Santa" into a post right now...can it be that December is only a week away? Okay, so I'm already listening to Christmas music. :) The end of November brings about our town's annual Santa Parade--which is loved by all kids everywhere because of the amounts of candy that are literally thrown their direction.  We bundled up,

kierstenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-25847470722830773632011-11-21T23:34:00.006-05:002011-11-22T23:54:48.364-05:00

Yes, I'm a little late with this post, but it is one that simply cannot go unwritten. Some of our good friends host an annual Halloween party, and I absolutely love seeing all the fun and clever costumes from year to year.  This year we had our own brilliant idea (okay, so my friend did--we went along for the ride), and thanks to Salvation Army, which carries denim jumpers in bulk, we pulled it

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-87092302922149185612011-11-18T09:16:00.003-05:002011-11-19T01:03:22.501-05:00

gratitude is... hearing a small trickle of water and going to investigate. gratitude is... realizing how lucky you are that the bathroom and only half the mudroom is completely flooded. gratitude is... the fact that you noticed it 5 minutes before you started teaching piano lessons..so that it wasn't another hour before you noticed it. gratitude is... having little kids that thought it was just

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-51195609968728831102011-11-14T07:00:00.005-05:002011-11-14T09:55:03.556-05:00

Our family pictures were taken a little over a month ago, and I really do love them.  All of that hard work paid off.  :) Also--thanks to our fabulous photographer, whose patience, talent, and bags of candy made all the difference.  ♥ you. ..... {family} {five kids} {girls} {boys} {mom and dad} {ryan}  {kate} {emma} {henry} {jack} ..... My wall isn't big enough. How am I ever

kierstenoreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-54295748710933890862011-11-10T12:30:00.001-05:002011-11-11T08:24:24.610-05:00

Okay, so this has been on my list, well, since Halloween.  These past couple of weeks have just had so many extra things crammed in that sitting down and going through Halloween pictures has been at the bottom of the list.  But better late than never, right? We had a wonderful Halloween.  I felt a bit rushed, since we got home from Chicago the night before, but once I let myself relax a little

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-69413859901864963232011-11-02T11:45:00.001-04:002011-11-02T12:53:43.575-04:00

I just thought you should know...I have a new love interest.   Yes, it's true. My old vacuum (and I'm not just using that term lightly...it was at least 8 years old) died last week, in a poof of smoke and a huge spark that flew out the back and scared poor Ryan half to death. I was thrilled.  ☺ Vacuuming and I have had a very long-term relationship. Some might say I'm a little obsessed, and now

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-10393839979883554422011-11-01T11:45:00.002-04:002011-11-01T16:44:20.983-04:00

A few months ago I was itching for the next race, decided to run another half marathon, and was thrilled when my friend Brook wanted to join me for her first half. I really enjoy training with someone, and we had such a great time getting ready for this race together. This particular race was in Chicago, one of my most favorite places to visit. We had some fun things planned for our family to do

kierstenoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-83793756545021056212011-10-26T07:00:00.000-04:002011-10-26T07:00:19.011-04:00

I don't remember how this tradition started, but it simply isn't Halloween without making haunted gingerbread houses. The kids look forward to it for weeks---I'm sure it has nothing to do with the loads of candy and frosting we go through.  ☺ It ended up being a beautiful afternoon, after days of rain and gloom, so we decorated outside, which I was excited about.  I know that winter is close on

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-74204213567928169172011-10-21T10:25:00.006-04:002011-10-21T13:31:57.611-04:00

Early this morning I heard noises coming from the nursery. Despite not waking up to alarm clocks, middle of the night phone calls, and even a 5.9 earthquake, I can pick up the slightest noise from my little ones.  I glanced at the clock, saw it was just past 4am, and silently prayed that they weren't getting sick--Ryan had just been home for a couple of days because he wasn't feeling well, and I

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-9447266132220463342011-10-17T12:00:00.007-04:002011-12-26T13:01:26.388-05:00

I don't know why I feel like writing about this weekend. No earth-shattering news, or exciting trip out of town--just a pretty normal couple of days.  Maybe it's because Rick took Friday off so we had more time...and we even had not one but TWO dates. It could also be that I've only written once this month, and I'm feeling the urge to keep up with my goal to write at least weekly. But it's

kierstenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-47642718195436969782011-10-11T10:45:00.002-04:002011-10-11T12:29:39.026-04:00

{Jack & Henry learned how to say no. It wasn't their first word, or even their second or third.  In fact, it was 27 months and at least 15 words into their verbal life before we heard "no" or "mine".  Now that they've discovered this new found skill, they are taking the opportunity to practice it as often as possible.} {Independence is overrated when you're the mom of two year olds. I think it's

kierstenoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-17607159245273951772011-09-30T21:09:00.001-04:002011-10-02T12:49:36.280-04:00

I talk about my kids a lot on this blog, which makes sense, since I'm a mom, and my life literally revolves around them--pretty much every waking moment.  I don't talk as often about their dad--my husband--in as much detail, but I've been feeling really grateful lately, and I know I haven't been very good about expressing that.  So, how better to do it than on a blog where a thousand of our

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-82558622825393661742011-09-30T01:00:00.003-04:002011-10-02T12:49:15.996-04:00

I am in love with apple farms.   I've tried to think of why I love them so much, and I can't quite pin it down.  Maybe it's that I grew up in the desert, surrounded by beautiful red rocks and winter temps in the 50's, which I loved. Sagebrush farms,  yes.  Swimming in December, yes.  Waterskiing in February, yes. But not an apple farm in sight. It could be in part to the fact that I'm an

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-89642428463808412432011-09-25T17:00:00.002-04:002011-09-25T21:51:24.754-04:00

Forget counting to 10.   How about to 62?   Plus some breathing exercises.   Do you think they offer Lamaze classes for people with 2 year olds? (Specifically 2 year olds that won't stay in bed, are going through a hitting phase, and one in particular that is as big as his 5 year old sisters?) Isn't that where you learn to "breathe" through labor?  I wouldn't know from personal experience,

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-51546342283289371682011-09-23T14:00:00.000-04:002011-09-23T14:21:39.599-04:00

Ryan and I will always have a special connection.  For seven years, it really was just the two of us.  Rick was in school and gone long hours, and we didn't see much of him for several of those years, so Ryan and I were on our own.  I thoroughly enjoyed our time together, and I cherish the adventures we had and memories we made. Over the course of that time something developed between us that

kierstenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-28368500163377080662011-09-21T22:15:00.001-04:002011-12-11T15:15:38.162-05:00

The annual hot air balloon festival was this past weekend, and our family looks forward to it every year.   We bring dinner, chairs, and blankets, then meet our friends for a delightful evening of socializing and enjoying the balloons.  The kids love being able to run around and play, watch the skydivers, and then see the balloons light up once the sun has gone down.  I'm pretty sure the whole

kierstenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-84771729712693990872011-09-13T10:28:00.000-04:002011-09-13T10:28:28.724-04:00

Adjustment takes time, right? This morning I was wondering to myself exactly how long that adjustment might take, as I juggled the phone with one hand while talking to poison control, and frantically used the other hand to try and pour cereal for the four littles since the bus was within minutes of arrival.  I'm sure the operator was wondering what in the world was going on, since the two boys

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-91109549594940306762011-09-09T19:54:00.000-04:002011-09-09T19:54:21.104-04:00

How does it seem like yesterday and like forever, all at the same time?..... I'm a lucky girl.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-23382361124202349092011-09-08T07:00:00.002-04:002011-09-13T08:44:31.016-04:00

Finally.  The day that had been anticipated for so long was here. Ryan has been looking forward to school and his classes since the spring when he signed up for them--especially math and technology. Since we don't get to go to his first class with him any more, I had to settle for just one picture.  :) (Okay, so do you want to know the whole story? Did you notice his socks?  When he left for

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-42352876618967569622011-09-05T23:46:00.000-04:002011-09-05T23:46:06.865-04:00

I keep saying that, don't I?  Today really was the last hurrah, since school starts tomorrow.  We really wanted to do something fun, and enjoy not only our last day of summer, but the holiday as well--but we still had a lot to do at home, so it couldn't take the whole day.  We came up with the perfect solution. We rented a surrey, and along with our friends, took a delightful ride through our

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-70720608129575448882011-09-04T16:38:00.000-04:002011-09-04T16:38:30.744-04:00

Scheduled to play the organ this morning at church. In a hurry to get there on time after a crazy night and morning with kids. Going a little bit over the speed limit. Unmarked police car. Didn't play the organ today. (We won't talk about the fact that I was driving Rick's car, and that he doesn't keep his glove box in quite the same condition that I keep mine, and that there was no proof of

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-13616666721780839662011-09-02T00:17:00.000-04:002011-09-02T00:17:02.068-04:00

We reached a milestone this week, Rick and I.  It's taken us ten years, but we were able to get away for a few days by ourselves...no kids!  Between going to school for a long time, and then having babies over the last five years, it just wasn't option, but we finally got our chance! Rick was actually traveling to New York City on business, and it would make our trip virtually cost-free.  We had

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-79928061944491272782011-08-24T08:30:00.000-04:002011-08-24T08:34:27.692-04:00

We had time to squeeze in one more trip this summer before school started. Our friends asked us if we wanted to go to Cedar Point (a huge amusement park--largest/fastest/highest in the world), and we jumped right on board.  Yes, taking all of our kids to a place like that could have been crazy, but hey, we are crazy, lol.  It turned out to be a really great day--we couldn't have asked for better

kierstenoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-63588193561581793872011-08-20T07:00:00.003-04:002011-08-24T13:47:20.461-04:00

You are kind. You are smart. You are important. These three phrases deeply impacted me after seeing "The Help".  The movie resonated with me on many levels, and I came away with the goal to strive to be more kind, more compassionate, and a better mother. I resolved right then and there that I would be, and decided to write a list to remind me of the mother I want to be. ..... A mother that

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-65154700900069886022011-08-18T07:00:00.000-04:002011-08-18T07:00:03.833-04:00

Every year we plant two gardens.  One of them is in our own yard, and the other is at our local community garden.  It's a sprawling area, with acres and acres of beautiful gardens, paths, streams, plants, and lakes.  There is also a children's garden, which is one of my kids' favorite places to go, and that's where our other garden is. Our gardening class is once a week, and we get to go and

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-5228616950177329862011-08-16T10:00:00.001-04:002011-08-16T15:46:18.775-04:00

It started out as a hard day.  Rick had been home only four days out of the past three weeks, and my patience was running low.  When it was time to make dinner, I was just not feeling the love.  The kids were grumpy and tired of being inside, and I knew I needed to pull it together and do something fun and feed them at the same time. I piled everyone in the truck and headed to the grocery store.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-63456755249058779972011-08-15T10:30:00.001-04:002011-08-15T10:47:30.180-04:00

Rick and I were laughing so hard when this error popped up while we were trying to book train tickets for our family to Chicago. Just imagine their faces when we actually get on the train. 

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-3456917425378568392011-08-11T05:00:00.007-04:002011-08-11T05:00:02.303-04:00

Jack and Henry are pretty sure they're in charge around here.   This morning they woke up quietly, came downstairs, and went to work.  They added a little color to my flower arrangement... Cooked a lovely rice breakfast on the stove... decorated the house (with more rice), and even cleaned out the freezer. (Apparently they didn't think we needed baking soda, hamburger meat, frozen veggies,

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-46294610365671424262011-08-09T15:00:00.000-04:002011-08-09T15:01:30.479-04:00

You know those friends that no matter how long you've been apart, when you're together it feels like no time has passed? Yesterday my friend Kristin came up with her kids to visit us for the day, and the instant we saw each other, we were right back where we left off.  We met Kristin and her husband Jake while we were in grad school, and we became fast friends.  We each had one little boy around

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-40308665147313440022011-07-31T08:00:00.002-04:002011-07-31T09:40:22.388-04:00

Two years went by way too fast. These boys bring me such joy. I can't imagine life without either one of them, and I'm so grateful for the second biggest surprise of our lives.  :) JackJack Jack, Jack Sprat, Peanut Playful, and a big tease  Happy and contentPersistent LOVES:  any kind of ball--it was his first word, treats, being held, his "baby" (teddy bear), to talk Henry Henry B., B. Dog, Big

kierstenoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-89283445118782253402011-07-26T21:32:00.000-04:002011-07-26T21:32:27.591-04:00

All those of you that have also put a diaper through the wash can cry with me now. 42-hundred little pieces of super absorbent fluff covered my floor, counter, every piece of laundry, the inside of the washer and the dryer.  I did learn that vacuum works really well on the inside of my washer and dryer.  Good to know.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-90138496984452893252011-07-24T07:00:00.000-04:002011-07-24T07:00:06.853-04:00

Blueberry picking is one of those summer activities that we simply can't miss out on.  We've been going every year since Ryan was little, and it's a family favorite. I was a little unsure about going this week, because it's been SO HOT, but when our friends called and asked us to go, I couldn't resist. We picked and picked, and even the littles got the hang of it. Jack quickly learned the art of

kierstenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-41952785325717528992011-07-21T07:00:00.000-04:002011-07-21T07:00:05.960-04:00

Kate, with Hello Kitty  Emma, with little flowers This is what you get when you lose the one pair of earrings that you've worn every single day and night for the last three years since your ears have been pierced (taken them out only for volleyball games, and only since they're not allowed), and have to go shopping for another pair with two little girlies in tow. I'm still kind of shocked

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-81396317993183588272011-07-18T07:00:00.001-04:002011-07-18T07:00:14.669-04:00

My darling Henry, hard at work, his little red face so intent upon the work at hand.  Rick was moving logs from the forest to the wheelbarrow, then from the wheelbarrow to the log pile.  Henry so wanted to help, and wouldn't stop until it was done.  (Don't worry--they took plenty of water breaks, and lots of opportunities to rest.) I'm thinking maybe the laundry is next?  :)

kierstenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-57141061267452332082011-07-15T16:45:00.000-04:002011-07-15T16:53:23.737-04:00

Last night was a first and a last. It was Ryan's first ever midnight showing, and the last Harry Potter movie--the end of an era.  He COULD NOT WAIT to go, especially because we were making an exception to let him see it. (He can't see PG-13 movies.) Okay, so I was just as excited as he was, and thought the anticipation was going to kill me. We met at the theater at 10:30pm, and the line was

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-20079440752778957902011-07-12T16:45:00.000-04:002011-07-12T16:50:20.166-04:00

One of our favorite places to visit is our nearby nature center. It's an incredible educational resource--observatories, hands-on play, activities, acres upon acres to investigate, extremely knowledgeable people to answer any question--none too big or small--storytimes, and more. The kids love every moment of it, and we rarely leave before we've been there at least two hours.    One of the

kierstenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-31586664219238131772011-07-10T05:00:00.003-04:002011-07-10T20:30:32.494-04:00

Love this girl. Her new favorite activity is climbing trees in our yard--the taller the better. So we've implemented a new family rule:  No climbing trees without parental supervision. And nothing over 30 feet.  Lol.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-66576811932040552011-07-08T05:00:00.004-04:002011-07-26T15:09:40.875-04:00

Our favorite beach is about an hour and a half away, on Lake Huron. We really love it there, and it was just about as close to perfect as you can get.  The temperature was in the low 80's, the sun was shining, there was no wind to be found, and hardly any humidity.  The kids were happy playing in the sand most of the time, and I was happy on my blanket just watching them.  I brought along a book

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-35183656256477059032011-07-06T23:08:00.000-04:002011-07-06T23:08:42.211-04:00

Can I just tell you how much I love the 4th of July?  It is a very close second to Christmas--I love it that much.  Everything about it speaks to me--the yummy food, flags, friends & family, fireworks, the music, what the day actually means and all those who made this country what it is today--I look forward to it every year. It's also a day that I make everyone wear red, white, and blue--it's

kierstenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-80699522605946699422011-07-02T17:00:00.003-04:002011-07-02T18:02:31.083-04:00

We've all heard the phrase "a time and a season".  You know, things like family history, sleeping through the night, going to the grocery store during the day, and actually listening in Sacrament Meeting into that category of "not right now".  There are other things too--and they can be the things that are sometimes harder to accept.  Even though I have a lot of really little kids, I've tried not

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-67757757551098445422011-06-30T05:00:00.001-04:002011-06-30T07:32:47.905-04:00

 Ryan is working on his Personal Fitness merit badge this summer (it takes a minimum of 90 days to complete), and tonight we took his fitness baseline--sit ups, push ups, pull ups, and a 9 minute run. He's working really hard to finish his merit badges this year, and he's doing a great job. Kate was really excited to see him doing all this, and wanted to give it a try.  Holy moly.  This girl is

kierstenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-26683263895719395802011-06-28T05:00:00.003-04:002011-06-28T13:09:55.852-04:00

*Disclaimer:  This is a really long post, with A LOT of pictures.  I seem to not be able to control myself when I get a camera in my hand, lol.  Plus, now that I'm publishing this blog as our journal, scrapbook, and family history, I want to include as many pictures as possible. Let's just say that if you're my mom, you will love this. ..... One of our favorite summer traditions is our annual

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-67537719746906917492011-06-21T05:00:00.035-04:002011-06-27T16:10:39.253-04:00

There have been a few specific moments in my life as a mother that have really shaped me, and contributed to how I appreciate and see life.  Some of them have been monumental, such as the births of my children, and others have been small but significant experiences, but each has touched me in such a way that they are imprinted on my very soul. This weekend I had another of those moments.  I left

kierstenoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-41634845638266498582011-06-11T05:00:00.001-04:002011-06-27T16:11:23.619-04:00

Yesterday was the last day of school, and it has been much anticipated in our family.  We're ready for a more relaxed summer schedule, packed full of our favorite summer activities.  My friends and I wanted to do something really fun with our kids to celebrate the last day of school, and what could be more fun than a water balloon fight?  Especially when they don't know it's coming?  :) We all

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-20745442675840849992011-06-09T10:25:00.004-04:002011-06-27T16:11:56.402-04:00

We've had one great escape artist in our family.  Her name is Emma Caroline.   (you can read about here HERE) I thought for awhile that our family quota had been filled, but apparently that assumption should never have been made.  Remember the crib tent at 15 months?  Well, Henry decided that just wasn't going to work for him.  He used his size to back into the corner of his crib, then power

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-25747429520077050172011-06-07T12:55:00.002-04:002011-06-08T12:54:24.568-04:00

I don't know what happened. Last week we were rolling along in the 60's, and then all of a sudden we were hit with 90 degree temperatures overnight!  The last week has been hot, hot, hot, with no relief in sight.  I told myself (very strongly) that I wouldn't complain about the heat after such a long and arduous winter, and I really am grateful for the sun. But around here it's not just the heat-

kierstenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-69947281276165915732011-06-03T05:00:00.019-04:002011-06-03T09:24:26.557-04:00

When we went up to the marathon, we stayed at an hotel with an indoor water park.  It was our first time there, and going back is definitely on the must-do list! After unpacking and getting everything set up, we headed to the water area.  The kids were so excited to swim and see all of their friends, they could hardly contain themselves. Everyone had fun, except maybe poor Henry.  He ended up

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-89301209515969752352011-06-01T05:00:00.001-04:002011-06-08T12:54:42.474-04:00

It was my parents' last day with us, and the holiday, so we decided to head down to Greenfield Village for the day.  It's one of our favorite places, and since my parents hadn't been there before, it was the perfect thing! It was such an enjoyable day, albeit hot, hot, hot! I told myself I am not allowed to complain about the heat after our long and cold winter, and so far so good. :)  Over the

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-55376759039306063272011-05-31T10:00:00.003-04:002011-05-31T10:12:01.741-04:00

The past 18 weeks have included running hundreds of miles, 3 pair of running shoes, 3 lost toenails, battling snowstorms, freezing temperatures, pouring rain, and hours upon hours of training. It all culminated this weekend, when I ran my first marathon. It was a wonderful weekend---full of family, friends, and excitement in the air everywhere.  I felt good--nervous, but prepared.  I had trained

kierstenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-7256461988490886432011-05-23T00:52:00.000-04:002011-05-23T00:52:44.739-04:00

Friday night Rick and Ryan were on a Scout campout, so my parents and I decided to take the little ones out for a fun night downtown. It's the historic downtown district, full of cute shops, yummy restaurants, the farmer's market, a huge park, the baseball stadium and more.  It's a gathering place for the community, but especially on the weekends.  This Friday night was no exception, and the

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-35810398842352469242011-05-15T18:38:00.000-04:002011-05-15T18:38:13.171-04:00

Last week was a big week.  We had all been looking forward to it, but none more than Miss Kate.  She was going to ride on an airplane for the the first time, and just couldn't wait. ..... Rick's dad was celebrating his 70th birthday, and there was a huge surprise party planned for him with friends and family.  What could be a better surprise than showing up on his doorstep?   We knew we couldn't

kierstenoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-40990222730144961962011-05-06T05:00:00.004-04:002011-05-16T00:54:28.544-04:00

It's tradition. Taking pictures on the front porch on Easter Sunday has been done every year since Ryan was little, but this year we missed them due to illness. I was so sad about it that I had all the kids come out this morning before church to take a few shots. Here are a few outtakes... Yes, I realize that they look very similar, lol. I love all the looks in each photo, and honestly,

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-76279277211778676472011-05-04T08:00:00.004-04:002011-05-16T00:55:29.909-04:00

I love watching my girls grow, and their differences becoming even more apparent. They are playing soccer this season, and their opinions on the matter are completely opposite. ..... Soccer according to Kate: "This is GREAT!" "Can we play everyday?" "I'm going to get them..." (with a grimace on her face) "I chased them down, Mom!" Soccer according to Emma: "I don't like these pointy

kierstenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-10950584623177276762011-05-02T05:00:00.001-04:002011-05-16T00:56:29.236-04:00

My girls are {5}. They were sweet babies... darling toddlers... and are now beautiful 5 year old girls. ..... We actually didn't celebrate on their birthday this year. The boys were sick all week long, and Rick was working long hours. Luckily they are young enough not to notice, and adding on a few more "sleeps" was done easily enough. Celebrating on the weekend always seems to work a

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-56044239059603950982011-04-28T12:05:00.004-04:002011-05-16T00:56:47.820-04:00

Ryan came home from school yesterday just about as excited as I've ever seen him. He announced that today was "take your child to work" day, then headed straight for the phone to call his dad. Last night he had everything laid out and ready to go. He needed to dress up a little more than usual--no jeans--and he wanted to make sure he was ready. He was up early this morning, got dressed

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-47783683126919334902011-04-24T23:20:00.001-04:002011-05-16T00:59:38.533-04:00

Last week Ryan had 2 days off of school, and we spent one of them at the zoo. It wasn't in our plans, but when the weather turned out to be so much nicer than we thought on that particular day, we decided to hurry and take advantage of it. I'm so glad we did! We joined our good friends for the afternoon, and had a great time enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. This zoo is rather small, and

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-80047658102867548432011-04-21T19:48:00.009-04:002011-05-16T00:59:50.614-04:00

My girls are almost 5, which totally freaks me out. No longer are they toddlers, and they are teetering on the outer edge of being preschoolers. They talk about kindergarten everyday, and it is brought on by just about any topic. They are trying and trying to be independent, and I'm trying and trying to let them. Five was a big year for me. I was thinking back this week to my own childhood,

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-66670090192619670152011-04-17T21:18:00.012-04:002011-04-17T21:51:54.067-04:00

It all started as a regular visit to Target. (Doesn't that sound ominous?) Rick and I were at the tail end of our date night, and we wanted to go look for birthday and Easter gifts before heading home. We made the rounds around the store (actually I made the rounds, and Rick followed behind me, lol) and then of course I had to stop in the women's section to see what they had.My eye caught the

kierstenoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-27848739436196152942011-04-16T05:00:00.003-04:002011-05-16T01:00:56.627-04:00

The girls had their ballet recital this past weekend. They were mostly excited about wearing makeup (especially mascara and lipstick) and fluffy pink tutus, but really, what 4 year old girl wouldn't be? Truth be told, I was pretty excited too.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-52302064119265377262011-04-14T14:36:00.009-04:002011-05-16T01:02:08.530-04:00

In the last 5 days... 1 campfire, roasting hot dogs 2 dinners outside 3 picnics 4 days at the park 5 happy kids (and their mama too!) We (I) are so happy that spring is finally here! This is how Jack felt about a day at the park... (his hands always go up to his face when he's excited) I know where I'll be this summer--OUTSIDE!

kierstenoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-49454366252040553112011-04-05T05:00:00.003-04:002011-05-16T01:02:58.964-04:00

We headed to a nearby Children's Museum this week, and the kids loved it. We actually had to pry them away--they did not want to leave! It's a smaller museum, but sometimes that's nice, because they can easily see everything there and enjoy it all. The water area is so fun, but they really need some help designing new aprons. :) They do nothing to keep the water out, and basically any child

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-49366111996470774872011-04-03T21:54:00.033-04:002011-05-16T01:03:40.839-04:00

After receiving my blog books a couple weeks ago (which I LOVE), I decided to start writing about even more of daily life around our house. As much as I loved reading about our trips, special occasions, and big events, it was even more fun to look back and read about what our life was like at that moment in time. I hovered over details that may have seemed trivial then, but were now little

kierstenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-49087928423312452122011-04-01T13:51:00.000-04:002011-12-30T13:59:34.322-05:00

Rick and I were out for a little bit one night last week, and Ryan stayed home with the kids, who were all in bed. Just a normal night, right? Well it was, until we got home. Rick turned the key in the lock, and tried to push open the door. It wouldn't budge. We have safety latches on all of our doors, that fold across the very top of the door. We've had them for years, since Ryan was tiny

kierstenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-48921914118647967772011-03-29T21:45:00.002-04:002011-05-16T01:05:46.041-04:00

My poor kids have been feeling so cooped up, and I don't blame them--so have I! I am craving some sun and warmer temperatures, and dream about being able to be outside without coats. And boots. And gloves. etc. We had some beautiful weather a couple of weeks ago, and I was feeling very optimistic about winter finally being over. I should have found some wood to knock on, because last week a

kierstenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-40670513686147620322011-03-27T09:25:00.007-04:002011-05-16T01:05:30.819-04:00

Wednesday morning was the birthday of one of my close friends. Her husband wanted to surprise her with tickets to one of her favorite Broadway plays which was playing a couple of hours away. He collaborated with my husband, and they surprised us both this weekend with tickets to Les Miserables! I was THRILLED. It's one of my favorites, and although I've seen it before, it had been a long time.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-53801285639418682422011-03-22T19:08:00.011-04:002011-05-16T01:07:15.692-04:00

It was a normal weekday morning at our house. I was cleaning up the kitchen after breakfast, and the kids were playing in the family room. All of a sudden, Henry started crying, and I heard Kate cry out "there's blood!" I ran over, and saw him in front of our stone hearth, blood gushing out of his forehead. I know the head tends to bleed fairly profusely, so it wasn't the amount of blood

kierstenoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-28088068978197433742011-03-17T16:40:00.022-04:002011-05-16T01:08:00.560-04:00

Our family has grown by two (apparently that's how our family works!) and no one is more surprised than I am! Our dear friends moved to Utah, and needed a new home for their two bunnies. When they asked me about it, I was hesitant to say the least. I am so not an animal person, and it goes against every part of me to have a pet. In fact, some of you may be as shocked as I am. Almost.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-78727178290546106412011-03-07T22:00:00.002-05:002011-05-16T01:08:20.253-04:00

(originally posted early 2008--when Kate and Emma weren't quite 2 years old) The time has come. At 20 months old, my girls can hardly be called babies, although admittedly I have stubbornly held on to the notion that because they weren't 2 yet, they could still be considered so. However, they are full-blown, chair-climbing, bookcase-scaling, ABC-singing, new-words-everyday-talking, messy-eating

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-91462307016120259702011-03-06T21:16:00.004-05:002011-03-07T22:05:41.549-05:00

***UPDATE***If you use the code "readysetb2p", you'll save 15% off of your next book! The code is good through March 9th......I had several questions about blog publishing, so I wanted to answer all of them, and fill you in on the details!I started with blurb.com, which I've heard about for a long time. The quality is superb, but you have to format each page yourself--layout, pictures, text,

kierstenoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-55744618255640263662011-03-04T22:09:00.011-05:002011-05-16T01:08:58.281-04:00

We decided to have a family date night tonight, and we had such a great time! We rarely keep the babies up past their bedtime, but it was worth it. Everyone enjoyed it, and it was worth the late night. As soon as Rick got home, we were out the door to our favorite family pizza place to join our good friends for the night, and we were so excited to see them! The pizza was yummy, and even the

kierstenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-85161770667963371452011-03-02T11:19:00.007-05:002011-05-16T01:09:52.989-04:00

I have a sudden, unexpected quiet moment this morning. The boys are playing in the basement playroom, and I can hear them laughing and giggling. Usually they are upstairs pulling out every piece of Gladware, all the pots and pans, and any mixing bowl they can find. ..... Sometimes I want to cling to those possible moments of quiet and solitude so much that I overlook reality. All 25

kierstenoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-21407642155363684322011-03-01T10:45:00.005-05:002011-05-16T01:10:38.018-04:00

I have a sudden, unexpected quiet moment this morning. The boys are playing in the basement playroom, and I can hear them laughing and giggling. Usually they are upstairs pulling out every piece of Gladware, all the pots and pans, and any mixing bowl they can find. The girls are playing upstairs, and I thought it was the perfect time to catch up on what's being going on at our house. ..... 1.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-38909086422091974372011-02-26T05:00:00.004-05:002011-05-16T01:11:13.674-04:00

Our dishwasher has been broken for almost 2 weeks now, and although Rick was able to take it apart and figure out what was wrong, the part won't be in for another week. So, we've been washing all the dishes by hand for that long, and let me just say that I'm ready to have my dishwasher back! Not that I mind doing dishes--I really don't. In fact, we have lived at least a third of our marriage

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-46921082602292284252011-02-24T05:00:00.006-05:002011-05-16T01:11:33.149-04:00

I was sitting at the computer, with Kate right by my side, and we got to talking. Soon I started asking her some questions about herself, and when I heard her answers, I immediately started typing--I had to record them. I wish I could have got her on tape--there's nothing like hearing the little voice to match! I had so much fun talking to Kate, that I called Emma over and asked her the same

kierstenoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-981357671545485402011-02-23T10:29:00.008-05:002011-05-16T01:13:00.252-04:00

My Jack has earned a nickname at our house, hence the title of this post. He is the only child of mine that loves his blanket so much that it goes just about everywhere with him. The sight of his blanket is even more exciting than food I think, and that's saying a lot! I don't mind the carrying it around everywhere, but he also chews on one corner of it, almost continuously. When we hand the

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-20740476963818004842011-02-16T13:30:00.002-05:002011-05-16T01:13:48.514-04:00

They really loved dinner. The cleanup? Not so much. ..... Yeah, me too.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-39876141876098255212011-02-14T13:22:00.017-05:002011-05-16T01:14:20.523-04:00

The pink chocolate chip pancakes were a huge hit this morning, but not as much as the heart cupcake liners full of candy that were left on each of the kids' plates. Imagine that. While I was cleaning up our Valentine's breakfast, Emma was at the table, lining up and organizing her conversation hearts by color. I stopped to notice her look at the writing on each heart, and then "read" it to

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-75980122194041379452011-02-11T07:30:00.002-05:002011-05-16T01:14:34.461-04:00

As part of one of Ryan's merit badge requirements, he had to plan and carry out a project that would benefit our family. He decided to plan a week of meals, and cook two of them. Wahoo! Any time someone else is going to cook for me, I'm a happy girl. Tonight was his first night, and he made Fettuccine Alfredo. He has made dinner before, but this was the first time with this recipe. I was

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-33406326843455786622011-02-09T00:01:00.004-05:002011-05-16T01:15:42.010-04:00

One perk of all this snow is a fantastic sledding hill at city forest. Rick was able to go in early to work on Saturday morning, and get off in time for us to bundle up the kids and pack up our sleds.Everyone was excited--not only were we spending time outside after a week of being indoors, but Rick was with us too! The girls were up and down that hill--going by themselves, going with each

kierstenoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-16100569776553328252011-02-07T20:00:00.003-05:002011-05-16T01:17:00.401-04:00

We are a Pittsburgh Steelers family through and through. Rick has been a loyal fan since he was a little boy, and we have all been converted. The fact that they are a really good team is just icing on the cake. The Joneses invited us over for the big game, and it was crazy fun. They also are HUGE Steelers fans, so they were the perfect family to host. Good friends, yummy food, and your favorite

kierstenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-16811379857653718462011-02-03T16:45:00.004-05:002011-05-16T01:17:56.824-04:00

After getting buried in snow during the big snowstorm this week, I just have two questions: 1. WHY do we have such a long driveway? 2. WHY don't we have a snow blower? Rick and I went out last night after he got home from work to try and dig ourselves out from all the snow. It took a LONG time, and it still needs some more work tonight. Fun times. I have not seen this much snow at one time

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-90037927648019102882011-01-19T15:51:00.010-05:002011-05-16T01:18:15.506-04:00

It was only out of sheer desperation that I even considered the idea. My usual plan of attack for grocery shopping is simple...wait until Rick's home. Then I take one child with me, and we make a day of it. If I need just a few things, Rick is happy to run by the store on his way home. However, neither of these things were an option, and my only recourse (if we wanted milk, fruit, bread, and

kierstenoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-37109668141942181902011-01-19T15:02:00.006-05:002011-02-21T11:10:14.973-05:00

(snuggling at bedtime...)Me: What was the best part of your day?Kate: Coming home......I couldn't agree more.

kierstenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-55382326535915257742011-01-09T21:52:00.032-05:002011-05-16T01:19:11.436-04:00

Well, it's official. Busy season has now started. I'm trying to get myself mentally ready for the next 8-10 weeks, and not kill my diet with chocolate or treats in the process. ..... This was just a week in the life--normal--but I love to document the every day, our daily comings and goings. Sometimes these are the best memories of all. 1. Kate has come up with two of our favorite family

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-71758654889751873372011-01-05T00:00:00.004-05:002011-05-16T01:20:09.738-04:00

After being off for two weeks, Rick went back to work today, and we were back to real life once again. We worked hard the last week on several projects, and it was nice to check a few things off our list before busy season starts. I also tried to pack in things like hair appointments, errands, and buying as much craft stuff as I thought I needed for the next 2 months! ..... I made a decision

kierstenoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-49497673021901670752010-12-26T15:00:00.004-05:002011-02-21T11:09:39.306-05:00

To say this will be a Christmas to remember is an understatement...We spent Christmas Eve day taking the kids out shopping for each other. They chose names at the first of the month, and were excited to pick out gifts. We were supposed to go earlier in the week, but were grateful everyone was finally feeling well enough to go. We headed to Target, and Rick and I split the kids up to go around

kierstenoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5801132661217821787.post-9434413932413645252010-12-22T23:08:00.005-05:002011-02-21T11:09:29.630-05:00

Well, this blog is a chronicle of the good, bad, and ugly, and this is most surely teetering on the edge of ugly.Last night at midnight, the stomach flu hit child number one (Emma). It wasn't long before Kate, Jack, and Henry joined her, and we spent a lovely night sleeping on the floor, doing laundry, giving baths, and holding buckets. We were hoping Ryan had avoided it, but by 11am we were

kierstenoreply@blogger.com8