simple beautiful things

Snuggling with this little guy

2012-01-22T22:58:00.000-08:00

That's how I'm spending my day today.

Enjoying every minute of it.

Sweet baby James Michael Speed decided to join us early Thursday morning, 12:15 A.M. to be exact. He weighed 7 lbs 9 oz and was 19 1/2 inches long. (For all of those who have read this previous post I misheard the ultrasound tech when she gave me the estimated weight it was 6 lbs 13 oz not 7 lbs 13 oz, good thing too).

For those of you who are interested I'll be posting the birth story later this week.

So, in the mean time here are hospital pictures.

It was a long day hence the reason I'm about to fall asleep in the pictures.

The handsome proud Daddy.

The happy little mommies.

And some beautiful flowers from my in-laws, thank you!

So how long?

2012-01-18T05:29:00.000-08:00

We all know that I go past my due date, but how long have you all gone? Is it 1 day or something crazy like 17 days like me? Or maybe you are one of the lucky ones who actually go early. I just wanted to see what other ladies experience. Even if I don't know you I'd love to hear what you've gone through!

Happy Due Date Day!

2012-01-15T18:15:00.000-08:00

Well, I've made it to my due date and while it shouldn't surprised me that I haven't had my baby yet

I'm still well--surprised.

At least I felt pretty and feminine today for church

thanks to this lovely necklace from my mom (thanks Mom) and my fun white cardigan I got for Christmas.

And to make it a little sweet for the family we had hot chocolate with crushed up candy canes to celebrate.

What a weekend!

2012-01-11T07:38:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm still here.

Let's do a little review of the weekend starting with Friday,

I went to my OB visit and baby looks great in fact they estimated he was 7 pounds 13 ounces and I was told by the midwife that the ultra tech is usually dead on!

Not bad for measure 4 weeks behind.

While I was there I had her check me to see if I dialated (I never dilate until I go into labor) just because I had contractions the previous weekend and thought maybe it did something. Well turns out I was indeed dialated to a 3.

For a lot of women out there that doesn't mean anything but for me I was thinking WOW I'm going to have this baby! Well, obviously that was not to be the case. I continued to have contractions that night and throughout the weekend of course it was "false labor" and pretty depressing.

Fast forward to Monday and my sweet mother called me and offered some heart felt advise.

"Maybe what you need is to change your focus."

Yes, I needed to stop getting down about not having the baby and have some fun with the kiddies.

So, the kids and I took off for Costco and ate out (something we don't do) and then did a little shopping while we were there.

It felt so good. So we're trying to have fun each day now despite the contractions that hurt but come and go.

(excuse the pictures they were taken with the iphone)

We're off to have some fun at the dentist!

38 weeks and we'll see what happens

2012-01-04T10:54:00.000-08:00

Well, we're coming toward the end of yet another pregnancies for the Speed family. Unlike my previous pregnancy, this one I'm measuring a bit smaller.

As of last Tuesday I was 37 weeks and measuring 33 weeks.

Each visit I get to do a non stress test and some type of ultrasound to make sure the baby is still breathing, moving, flexing, etc.

So far he's doing awesome, and I'm still gaining weight (which I've been working on and it's been helping with lots of other things too)!

The baby has dropped and I'm not enjoying the extra pressure down yonder. I haven't ever dropped with the others and so it has been interesting this round.

Lets just say I resemble a penguin more each day as I

waddle around.

Hopefully the baby comes soon, I did not break down and buy maternity clothes and have been making do with my "bigger" clothes and wearing stretchy shirts. I'm excited to wear all my clothes that are hanging up in my closet and try some new things.

Here's a blog that I love to look at. She dresses so cute (she's a friend from BYU-Idaho days).

ABC Restaurant

2011-12-31T21:27:00.000-08:00

The kids enjoyed their lunch at ABC Restaurant

(aka: the playroom).

They had a foreign waitress that sounded like a man and ballet music playing in the background.

They were in Heaven

and I enjoyed playing the waitress.

Brooklyn and Autumn showing me how they eat their

Arizona oranges.

If you want some sweet yummy oranges that just happen to be from Arizona click here.

And have a happy New Years!

Christmas Review

2011-12-29T21:25:00.000-08:00

We've enjoyed having Autumn off from school
she adds a sense of fanciness to our family.

Prior to our walk,
Autumn: "I want to look beautiful in case a boy sees me
and wants to dance with me."

Brooklyn does a great job at making me laugh with her funny poses, I'm not sure if she means to, but it's funny nonetheless.

And please take note of Daniel's hair, he trimmed it himself
(don't worry I finally gave him a hair cut yesterday
so it doesn't look so obvious).

Lily enjoying a bath in our kitchen sink.

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By the time Christmas Eve came our tree looked like this.

90% of our ornaments had been taken off or knocked off of the tree by little elves. Instead of rehanging them over and over again they would collect under the tree and then we proceeded to bag them up. It worked for us.

Autumn came home from school with this book and it is one of my favorites! I recommend it to all you mothers out there. You'll appreciate it. ;)

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For Christmas Eve dinner we invited a couple from our church that Mike serves with and had a nice time with them. They brought the kids presents, homemade chocolate fudge (so yummy)for Mike and I, and these awesome flowers that my dad would truly appreciate (he loves vibrant colors).

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Autumn's project.

Since we didn't get anything to hang up our stockings with, Autumn came to the rescue with glittery pipe cleaners

and my hair clips. She did an excellent job!

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My favorite pictures from Christmas Day.

And we also enjoyed watching these videos as well. It really brought in the Christmas Spirit (or the Spirit of Christ)

into our home.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T21:32:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from the Sunshine State!

I hope you all have a wonderful day remembering the

birth of our Savior tomorrow and enjoying

family and loved ones.

Love, The Speed Family

Battle Wound from Christmas Shopping Yesterday

2011-12-22T04:58:00.000-08:00

This what happens when your waiting in line to check out at Khole's and an elderly woman with a cart is

standing behind you.

Have you finished your Christmas shopping? I still have a couple more things to get myself.

I can't believe it's almost Christmas. It went by way too fast, and I assume it'll only go by faster with each year.

Make sure to slow down and enjoy the Christmas Season with your loved ones.

My day yesterday

2011-12-16T11:00:00.000-08:00

-Took Autumn to school
-Cleaned up kitchen, got me and kids ready to go
-Dropped kids off at friends
-Went to my midwife appointment (Group B Strep test, blood
taken to check iron levels, and ultrasound)
-Picked up kids from friends house
-Ran to Costco (little after 12:00 PM)
-Ran home dropped off food and had a quick bite to eat
-Get back in the car to pick up Autumn
-Ran to the health food store to pick up more vitamins
-Lily had fallen asleep, we had to park in the overflow parking
area across the street, credit/debit machine not working right
at the cash register=long wait in line=kids going crazy
-Finally we check out and go home
-Make dinner and get everyone ready to go to Autumn's Holiday
Program at school
-Mike comes home and we load up in the van
-Enjoy the program and seeing Autumn's smiling face on stage
-Go to Cold Stones and 5 Guys (to feed Mike and I since
we had not eaten)
-Go home, read and pray with family, brush teeth, and go to
sleep.

Spent the morning today:

In my pajamas on the couch sleeping while Lily napped and Brooklyn and Daniel played Starfall on the computer.

Miss those days

2011-12-14T04:44:00.000-08:00

Yesterday as I was trying to clean the kitchen I contemplated how I miss the days when Autumn and Brooklyn were so little and we had baby Daniel.

We played everyday and just had fun.

Nobody had to go anywhere or do anything for that matter.

So, yesterday morning I let little Ms. Lily wear

her fairy ballerina costume all day.

It helped make the day special.

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Those who may be interested in the

yummy brownie recipe made with black beans click here.

Dear Santa

2011-12-12T19:40:00.000-08:00

We decided to give Santa a few ideas to choose

from this Christmas.

As you can see Daniel is still heavily
influenced by his sisters.

The chapstick was lip gloss but I convinced him that boys do not wear lip gloss but they wear chapstick.

He was happy with that response.

Autumn's is missing in action. But she wants all the practical things a young 6 year old would ask for: a real camera, a bracelet, and lip gloss.

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Look at these yummy brownies we had tonight as our treat for FHE.

The only problem is that I put almond extract in them.

I personally like the almond hint in them but the hubby and the eldest girl didn't like it so much.

All the kids asked for seconds and I willingly let them because guess what?

They had 2 cups of black beans,

only a cup of agava (which is way better for you than sugar), and a few other ingredients.

The funny thing is that I told Mike what kind of brownies they were before we had dinner and as he was eating his brownie I said to him, "Not bad for having black beans in them."

He apparently was not listening to me early and just looked at me totally shocked.

Knowing that little bit of information ruined his brownie experience.

I could not stop laughing, his reaction was priceless.

Gummy Hair and My New Bed

2011-12-09T12:46:00.001-08:00

Tuesday Brooklyn got gum stuck in her hair really bad.

(Side-note: I'm not a gum chewer but their sweet Granny Micklas is and they typically get treated to gum when she's in town).

On Wednesday we took about 45 minutes getting the gum out (and quite a bit of hair too).

Peanut butter worked well but it was a pain to do.

Here she is taking a bath and happy to be done with me pulling out her hair--I mean getting the gum out. I promised her that next time I would just cut her hair, it was that bad.

Thursday she once again got gum stuck in her hair. I wanted to use the peanut butter seeing that it wouldn't take nearly as long as last time but Brooklyn insisted on cutting.

So we cut her hair.

The children are now grounded from gum.

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Around this time in my pregnancies I tend to not sleep well on my bed and make my way to a comfy couch.

Last night was my first night on my new bed (the comfy couch).

It was heavenly.

I slept so good I woke up late.

Took Autumn to school in my pajamas and no makeup.

A thought for this weekend:

Remember to smile no matter what you look like.

You'll always look better with a smile.

We miss you!

2011-12-06T17:52:00.001-08:00

My in-laws (Tom and Renee a.k.a. Grandpa and Granny Micklas)left today. We miss them already, especially me. I'm thankful to have such wonderful in-laws who support Mike and I as a couple. What a blessing it is to have them apart of the family.

Here's us at the mall after we visited Santa.

And yes, I don't have much makeup on, hence my pale looking face.

The kids playing in "snow" at the mall.

(Tiny little bubbles stuck together shooting from a Christmas tree on the second floor).

Hoping more family will come and visit us some day soon. Any volunteers? Mom and Rob, Dad and Celeste?? :)

Just another reason . . .

2011-11-30T06:14:00.001-08:00

why I'm grateful we'll be having another boy in the house.

Caught him singing, "I'm so fabulous in my heart!"

Love my silly boy.

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We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with friends from church at their roomy house (more on that later). I brought these not so pretty but really yummy Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies. They're easy to make and they only have natural sweeteners in it, no sugar. One word of caution: they are addicting.

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The day after the kids and I got to work putting up Christmas decorations while listening to Christmas music.

It was magical, the kids enjoyed all the treasures they were finding in our boxes. It reminded me how exciting this time of year was for me when I was little.

Now I get to enjoy watching my children experience it.

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Our new rug!

Not what I was looking for at all but it was sooo comfy and something about the colors drew me to it.

Mike was so sweet and let me get it even though he's not a fan of the flower design.

It turns out it goes great with our couches and the kids love laying on it.

Now if the kids could get over being sick before I my in-laws come this Friday, that would be perfect!

Last week . . .

2011-11-23T17:33:00.001-08:00

I was feeling physically not well and it was effecting me emotionally. I wondered why the vitamins weren't helping my symptoms and why the doctor hadn't gotten back to me about my test results.

Then finally I got a call Thursday with the results. Busy with my sweet children I didn't have time to really let it sink in until I called my mom to tell her the news.

Realizing what this all meant as I talked to her, it was hard to bear. She kindly listened and told me about this song "Beautiful Heartbreak."

I'm sure you've all listened to it before but this was my first time and it was Heaven sent. If you haven't be sure to watch the video as you listen to the uplifting words.

I know everyone has to go through some type of "heartbreak" but with the Savior's help we can become the person He intended us to be through our trials.

"As we wait upon the Lord, we are “immovable in keeping the commandments,” knowing that we will “one day rest from all [our] afflictions.”

And we “cast not away … [our] confidence” that “all things wherewith [we] have been afflicted shall work together for [our] good.”^"

To listen to this talk click here it has helped me with my perspective on trials.

The doctor still has one more test he wants to do after the baby is born that will give us "answers."

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Friday we celebrated Brooklyn's fifth birthday. She's a sweetie and is a big help to me when I'm not feeling well (my personal earthly angel).

She is my first child to request a store bought cake and I willingly obliged.

I can always count on her to be my model. She loves to pose for the camera. Love you Brooklyn.

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8 months

and no it's not really cold here yet, but it was cool early that morning and I decided to have the jacket on for the pictures and then take it off for our walk.

It was a good morning, can you tell??

Followed by this picture that night(this past Monday), not so good. And they did the same thing yesterday but in a different bathroom with more water.

Good thing I grabbed my camera.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Mike's Birthday Surprise

2011-11-11T18:39:00.001-08:00

Ever since I decided to have it be a surprise Mike has shown interest in knowing what the sex of the baby is. After a couple of these conversations I started thinking that maybe we should find out. But I wanted to make it special. So here's what I did:

I made a cupcake(recipe from this site) cut a hole in the top (actually 2 dozen to be exact, but we just used one), homemade cream cheese frosting filling mixed with strawberry jam plus a little food coloring for a girl and blackberry jam plus some food coloring (which my friend provided) for the boy, plain cream cheese frosting to cover the top and the envelope that contains what we're having.

I wanted to be surprised too so I took this tray over to my friend Jenny and asked her to help in this special event. She's a sweetie and very crafty too.

This is what Mike got to start his Birthday day with.

I got the cupcake back and finished frosting it. Made a make shift stand for it inside this cute cupcake box that I bought at Wal-Mart.

Mike's Birthday Dinner: Fish Taco's. It was enjoyed by all and for his birthday cake we had homemade

egg custard, yummy.

On to the best part of the night. I made a quick little treasure hunt for Mike and the kids that led to his present aka: the cupcake.

It's a boy!!

Who knew I could get so emotional over a cupcake! It was such a special moment shared with Mike and the kids. Typically, I'm the one that finds out and then tell Mike but it was so neat to have him find out first (just like when Lily was born, he saw her first, such a sweet moment).

We are so excited to have a little brother for Daniel. What a blessing it is to have children. Even though this whole thing took a lot of time and planning it was so worth it. Mike loved it, as you can tell from the pictures.

To end the fun birthday night my friend Jenny had given us a baby gift to open after we ate the cupcake. Thanks Jenny, we love the adorable outfit!

Have a restful weekend!

Yummy Food and

2011-11-07T19:58:00.000-08:00

A little update:

So far all I know from the doctor is that I'm low in a lot of critical vitamins (B-12, D, calcium, and iron). For those that don't know if you don't have B-12 then your body won't absorb all the nutrients from the foods you eat. So for right now I'm taking quite of few different pills. I'll be excited when my doctor visits are over. If they find anything I'll let you know.

Here's us on Sunday.

Don't try to zoom in the pic's are blurry, sorry.

On to the recipes!

Quick and Easy Veggie Burgers with Spicy Sweet Potato Fires

I made these two recipes from Desiree's fabulous site Unconventional Kitchen. These are the best veggie burgers I've made so far. The kids, Mike and I loved the veggies burgers and I loved the fries I just need to remember to make sure I have more sweet potatoes and not to burn them. Mike liked them but prefers potato fries. Click here for the veggie burgers and here for the sweet potato fries.

Creamy Mushroom Soup (Vegan)

I am not vegan but I do like to eat meat sparingly.

I've never really had creamy mushroom soup besides the canned soup from Campbell's (which I

don't care for at all).

This however is very tasty (despite the grey color of this soup) in my opinion, the kids liked it so-so and Mike doesn't care for mushrooms by themselves and so is not a big fan of this soup.

So if you like mushrooms by themselves then this soup is for you! Very tasty.

Tip: if you're like me and are somewhat lactose intolerant you can substitute the cream or milk that a soup recipe calls for for raw cashews (do not use the roasted and salted ones, it'll taste like peanut butter) and water. You blend the raw cashews and water in a blender until smooth. Desiree explains more in the recipe. Click here.

Butternut Squash Soup

This is a recipe I got from my mom. It is so simple to make and is delicious. It's Mike's favorite and he brought it to work and shared some with his co-workers and they were impressed as well.

BUTTERNUT SQUASHSOUP

3medium sized Butternut squash, cut in half and seeded

1large onion, chopped

¼cup butter and some oil

5cups chicken broth

1½cup heavy cream (Or do what I did and substitute

for 1½ cup of raw cashews and 1½ cup of water blended

together in a blender)

1t. salt and pepper

Callsfor nutmeg and mace but, I leave it out.

Heatoven to 350. Place halved and seeded squash face down on a slight oiledglass-baking dish covered with foil. Bake 45 minutes or until tender. Removeand cool. Remove the flesh from the skin and set aside.

Heat3 T oil in a large soup pot. Add the chopped onion cook on low untiltranslucent. Add the cooked squash to onions. Add chicken stock. Bring to asimmer and allow simmering for 15 to allow the interchange of flavors. Add thewhipping cream. Blend to desired consistency in a blender. The smoother thebetter for this soup. Enjoy!

Oats and Rice (or Almond) Dream Breakfast

This is so yummy. The whole family enjoys this. I just throw all this stuff together and it taste great.

Place in a a bowl starting with:

-Some type of sliced fruit (peach, nectarine,

pear, banana, etc)

-Rolled oats

-Drizzle with honey or agava (agava comes from the agava plant and slowly absorbs into your blood, therefore it won't spike your blood sugar level like traditional sweeteners, bonus)!

-Sprinkle shredded unsweetened coconut (I never liked shredded coconut (you know the long sweetened shreds from the stores) until I tried this, it taste sooo good).

-Sprinkle ground up flax seed (loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and a great source of fiber) and flax seed (I add it for the crunch)

-Last I like to sprinkle home sprouted alfalfa sprouts (very good for you) on top. Autumn, Brooklyn, and I love the sprouts the boys and Little Lily, not so much.

Then you pour Rice Dream or Almond Dream (we like both) or you can use milk.

And there you have it!

So give it a try and let me know what you think.

Hot-Pink Breakfast Smoothie

This yummy and good for you recipe comes from Robyn Openshaw's (a.k.a. Green Smoothie Girl) 12 Steps to Whole Foods book. You'd never know that it has raw carrots and beats in it. Mike and the kids love it. So here's the recipe:

-1 1/2 coconut liquid (best raw, or use from a a can (I
just use the can))

-1 large carrot, cleaned and cut into 3 pieces (or 5-6 baby
carrots)

-1/4 of a medium beet, raw, peeled (I didn't peel mine but
it worked fine)

-1/4 cup raw cashews (not the roasted, salted ones, it'll
taste like peanut butter which my kids did not like)

-1/4 cup chopped dates (inexpensive in bulk foods at a
health food store)

-2 tsp. vanilla

-12 frozen strawberries (or more if your strawberries are
small)

Puree all ingredients except strawberries in your

high-power blender (I have a Blendtec, love it) for 90 seconds. Add strawberries and puree on high until smooth.

Have fun making these yummy recipes!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

We have a photographer in our ward who came and took pictures at our church's Fall Festival.

Mike was Super Dad (he borrowed a cape and mask from Daniel), Lily was Lily (she had fallen asleep right before we left), Daniel was Super Man, Autumn a ballerina, Brooklyn a princess, and me a pregnant princess (yes I realize that doesn't quite make sense

but that's what I had).

We had a nice time and the kids had a blast.

Here they are on Halloween Night after getting way too much candy from our generous neighbors.

Recipes coming soon!

A post

2011-10-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure who all reads this lovely blog of mine but I do want to say that I'm sorry for not updating it more often. I do want to it's just where do you find the time!

I'm working on getting my little self to bed earlier. I used to get to bed by 11 PM and still get up a little before 6 AM (that doesn't include the nightly trips to the bathroom) but now it's around 10:30 PM but the goal is around 9:30 PM. That should help with a lot of things. ;)

Doctors: As of September between three different doctors (ob-gyn, family, and neurologist) I've had my blood taken 6 times and had 3 shots.

My little ones have gotten use to it. They just turn the other direction cover their little ears, close their eyes and sing "I Am a Child of God." Daniel doesn't even look away anymore instead he just watches. And when it's over they get stickers. Pretty sweet deal I think.

Also, be sure to check back I'll be posting pictures and some great recipes that I've enjoyed making and the family has enjoyed eating that are good for you as well.

And I have a surprise to share on Mike's Birthday (November 11, save the date)! I know he'll really like it and all of you ladies out there will be happy to know too (especially my sisters).

Until then have a great Thursday!

"Just Another Day in Paradise"

2011-10-12T20:41:00.000-07:00

That line came to me this Monday as I finally went to investigate the pouring of water sound in the bathroom.

How it happened: The one day I tell the kids to go play out in the sandy and dirty backyard and Daniel brings in a toy pitcher filled with dirt (without me even knowing while I'm in the kitchen making dinner). I told him to go wash his hands and later found out he dump all the dirt in the sink filling it with water.

Lily then came in and took the toy pitcher and filled it up with the dirt water mixture you see in the sink and continued to dump it onto the floor (when I came to see what was going on).

And who cleaned it all up, my sweet husband did while I put the kids to bed. Times like these make great memories. Just like this one.

While I'm thinking of it, I love Mike's laugh. He and his two brothers share this laugh and it makes me smile every time I hear it.

About the whole pregnancy thing, I am beginning to think that I'm a different creature when I go through these 9 months. Mind you this is pregnancy number 5 and I should remember these things but I don't. You know (I'm hoping you have experienced this), extra sensitive, highs and lows, exhausted, irritable, not feeling so pretty especially when your ankles start to swell, etc. I'd like to skip to the part where I have the sweet baby in arms and I feel like super woman and feel even more beautiful because I now have this beautiful baby to hold and love.

On those days (which we all have I know) I remember that God does love me and knows me. That He never forgets us.

About two weeks ago I took Autumn to school and she had something very important to do that day.

She was to tell her teacher that she had copied off of her neighbors test but she was so worried that her teacher would yell at her. I assured her she wouldn't but asked Autumn if she would like to have a prayer and ask Heavenly Father to help her tell her teacher.

She yes and said the prayer but afterwards was still worried and asked, "Does He forget?" I was at first confused and asked, "Do you mean will Heavenly Father forget that you asked for help?" She said, "yes." I assured her, "Heavenly Father is not like Mommy and Daddy who sometimes forget things. He hears your prayers remembers what you pray for."

It was a sweet moment that I'll cherish forever.

When President Dieter F. Uchtdorf talked to the sisters of the church during the General Relief Society Conference, I was touched. It went right along with my discussion with Autumn, his talk is entitled "Forget Me Not." He is an inspired servant of God. Be sure to watch his address and the other sisters who spoke here. And to watch General Conference, which I enjoyed thoroughly,

click here. You'll be enlightened and inspired.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf- "Sisters, wherever you are, whatever the circumstances may be, you are not forgotten. No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, He loves you, with an infinite love."

And to let you know Autumn did not get yelled at but got a big hug from her teacher instead. She was all smiles when I picked her up from school that day.

Fall is in the Air

2011-10-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

This is a long post just to give you a heads up.

This week it's felt like the beginning of Fall. Cool mornings have made it possible for us to get out and go on walks around our neighborhood.

It's simply beautiful! Just like Brooklyn skirt and boots.

As Brooklyn would say, "It's Autumn time

not Brooklyn time."

Seeing this in our front entry way and smelling "Baked Apple Pie" melting in my Scentsy Jack O' Lantern

makes me smile.

Mike and I got this cute scarecrow pair (labeled Mike and Jessica how appropriate) from Mike's Mom way back when.

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Today (this Saturday)we had so much fun as a family. We woke up to rain and decided the kids needed to go play in it. That didn't last long as the rain was cold but the kids sure enjoyed it followed by a warm bath in our tub.

After we were all dressed we had lunch picnic style with hot chocolate followed by watching the movie "Pride and Prejudice" (part 1 of the T.V. version). It was a great way to spend our Saturday.

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Three weeks ago (this past Friday) we went to our local park for a night with Coach Speed. He had the kids practice kicking the ball and running to catch the ball. He wore them out without much effort. ;) We played at the park and enjoyed the sand (Lily practically covered herself in it).

I made these chocolate covered banana pops for our treat when we got back and wow, they are yummy. Click here (love this site, she's got some great recipes) to get the recipe. These would have been even better (tasting and better for you) had I used the coconut oil that it calls for but I didn't have it so I opted for butter.

Apple Valley

2011-09-17T20:42:00.000-07:00

We had our official "welcome" from our neighborhood president and assistant this past Wednesday evening. They were so kind and brought us a goodie bag along with a delicious apple pie (I've been asked to get this recipe, it's that good), and a directory of our neighbors in our little "hood."

We live in Apple Valley North can you tell

by the picture below??

One of our neighbor ladies painted all those apples,

too cute!

Oh, and the soap is apple pie as well.

I think we need to buy the house just so

we can keep them as neighbors.

They also invited me to Bunko night, never played but I'll have to go one night just to visit and get to know them better.

I finally got these pictures edited, printed, and framed for Mike to display in his office. (Don't worry I have

8x10's for our home, I just haven't framed them yet).

Aren't they just darling?! I think they turned out so cute. I love all my little sweethearts.

Having these pictures help me remember on those days when they're not being such angels how beautiful they truly are and that they are indeed each a child of God.

And that includes everyone. What a profound thought. If we could all treat each other that way what a beautiful world this would be.

Sunday Evenings

2011-09-12T20:35:00.000-07:00

These past Sunday evenings we've enjoyed watching the children dance for us.

I get a kick out of all their moves.

Naturally, Daniel had to be in a dress like the girls because his shirt and pants didn't twirl.

This last Sunday Mike provided the music to which the children danced too. I love how he gets into it, as if he's performing on stage. I can't stop smiling at him. :)

One of our favorite treats and which we had tonight for Family Home Evening. A chocolate shake made with: cocoanut milk, cocoa, agave, sea salt, vanilla extract, bananas, and ice cubes.
Such a yummy (and good for you) treat!

In remembrance of 9/11 I thought of this quote from our prophet President Monson:

"Fear not, be of good cheer.

Your future is as bright as your faith."

It rings true to me and I know that it's true for everyone else. May we all "be of good cheer" because of our faith in Jesus Christ we can overcome all trials.

Happy Monday Evening.

Making Memories

2011-09-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun labor day. After we watched "Where the Red Fern Grows" we decided (around 3:30 PM) to head to the beach and make some memories. And boy did we!

We didn't get to the beach until around 7 PM and Mike finally caught some bait fish with his cast net. Unfortunately, the waves were too ruff and we couldn't catch any fish via fishing pole. But the kids had fun getting sandy and wet and I had fun taking pictures (as always). We were there for about an hour and then it was too dark so we headed home.

On our way to the van we got attacked by mosquitoes! We didn't even shower any of the kids off we were running (not really running but walking super fast) for our lives. The mosquitoes even made it into our van and I killed at least 10 of them. Poor Daniel just sat there screaming while they sucked his blood, he wouldn't listen to us and hit them or anything.

Despite the sandiness in the car and me constantly killing mosquitoes we had a great time. Thanks Mike, I love you!

Lily trying to figure out how to work the fishing pole.

Autumn's confused "I don't know what to do" look. Priceless.

Brooklyn's always willing to let me take pictures of her, I love it.

Lily sure loves her daddy and I do too.

Daniel spotting the bright moon.

Like Daniel Lily is jumping if you can't tell. Her heals are off the sand. That's my girl.

I finally convinced Mike to jump for me. His jump is so nice where as mine . . .

well it's not so graceful. I look like an excited pregnant chicken trying to fly. ;)

For all those wondering what we're having in January, I'm going to let it be a surprise. Lily was a surprise and it was wonderful experience.

Hope you all had a wonderful Labor Day and made some fun memories like we did!

Got It

2011-09-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

I just finished an exhausting day and my arms are aching because of it (just one of my many symptoms that I'll be getting checked out soon).

After being at the doctors office twice today (first time for my appointment and second time for an ultra sound) and having to haul my kids to a friends house (thank you Jenny!) and then to our house then to pick up Autumn from school and then to the doctors office where we waited for 30 minutes (that's a long time to me and I'm not a child) until the ultrasound lady could see us I came back with this. . .

(Please excuse my grainy picture taken by my imac computer).

an envelope with the sex of our baby. Mike and I are indifferent as to wether we find out or not and so I decided to have the technician write it down until we

I mean until I decide. ;)

I better go and clean up my dirty kitchen before I decide I'm too tired. Have a great night.

Celebration

2011-08-29T13:25:00.000-07:00

I made two doctor appointments for myself (finally!!) and to help celebrate I thought I'd share our house with you all. And remember we came from an apartment and we are slowly getting things hung up.

Front of the house.

The roomy kitchen.

The formal dining room, but I want to make into a art room.

The library and my computer corner (I love having the maps right there).

The laundry room (I cleaned it up just for you guys). ;)

The oh so wonderful playroom. We love it!

Another view to show where the playroom connects to our family room.

Our blue living room.

Our little boys room.

Lily's purple room.

I put up a picture that I drew way back in the day. Thanks mom for framing it.

The purple and pink room (Autumn and Brooklyn's room).

Our lovely room.

Our bathroom that could use some changes, but hey we're renting and glad to have a bathroom of our own!

The kids have a bathroom and there's a half bathroom, but I didn't want to take a picture.

Hope you enjoy our rainbow house as much as we do!

"I love you Jessica"

2011-08-18T06:38:00.000-07:00

That's what Mike said to me this morning when I called him on his way to work.

And it's just what I needed to hear. Those words melted my heart. He tells me that he loves me everyday but to have him say that he loves me followed by my name really meant a lot.

Especially today when I feel like I am slowly loosing my strength from all the running around this week and holding my babies.

My kitchen and laundry room are a wreck
and it's shopping day.

Somehow the kids and I will get things put together and make it into the world and fill our van with yummy food.

I am thankful for Michael Speed. He is the love of my life and it is truly a miracle that we were brought back together after not dating and living in different states for a year.

Together we can face any hardships that come our way.

Thanks ladies for the kind thoughts and sympathy with the doctors visit. Yesterday went much better.

I love that Mike was willing to watch a "Barbie" movie with his sweethearts. Not his favorite (and actually not mine). But the girls and Daniel thought it was great.

What a day . . .

2011-08-16T19:54:00.000-07:00

I took Brooklyn (along with the Daniel and Lily while Autumn was in school, I'll talk more about that later) in for her well child check up today (which we haven't done for over a year due to unemployment) which included shots. Now before I go on I must tell you that Brooklyn is very much, for lack of a better phrase, a "scaredy cat". The appointment went well and she complied happily to the doctor and nurse. That is until a nurse told her to sit on my lap and she took note of the 4 shots. (Prior to us coming I tried to prepare her for this appointment explaining that the shots feel like a hard pinch and then it's over). She immediately told me that she didn't want shots and when I tried to coax her and put her on my lap she started going out of control. I informed the nurse that we might need assistance. She called in the female doctor who she called "Muscles" to come help hold Brooklyn steady. The nurse tired to quickly come up to Brooklyn's arm to administer the shot but couldn't because Brooklyn was trying to break free. I had to tell the nurse "not yet" after she had scraped her with the needle. Then the doctor/"Muscles" told me to go out of the room so she could hold her. I immediately felt my mommy defense go up as Brooklyn heard this she went ballistic shouting for me. I told the doctor that I'd hold her and I told Brooklyn she needed to sit still on my lap or the doctor would have to hold her. She held still enough that with the help of me and the doctor the nurse was able to give two shots in each arm. She hardly cried during that time. After it was over I looked down to see sweet Daniel sitting in the chair covering his head with a book crying and little Lily siting on the floor crying. It was such a traumatizing time. I'm sad and a little worried that we will be doing this same thing tomorrow but for Daniel and Lily. Daniel already expressed to me that he did not like that doctor and that she gave Brooklyn shots. I just pray that Daniel doesn't try to hit anyone tomorrow in the process. Pray for me.

A picture I took today with three of my sweethearts. You can kind of tell that I'm still at the "fat stage" of pregnancy. I looked at the online due date calculator yesterday and to my surprise I'm 2 weeks shy of being 5 months! Yikes, that happened fast! Once tomorrow is over I'll be scheduling at least two visits for two different doctors for myself. I know my parents will be relieved.

Any suggestions for my hair (coloring is not an option)?? I'm not quite sure what to do with myself these days.

My Favorite Book-The Book of Mormon

2011-08-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

For those not of our faith (members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) this book is another testament of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon does not replace the Bible but is a companion to it. I study them daily (preferably in the mornings) and find that my day goes better when I do this. When I have questions about life or problems I'm facing I can go to these scriptures and find answers. They have helped me draw closer to my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Click here to learn more about The Book of Mormon.

This has nothing to do with this post but I like the big colorful ball and the kids in it as well, so fun.

Boring Post

2011-08-08T19:25:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to post for a while but when it comes time that I actually can, I don't know what to say. I think my brain is somewhat dead by the end of the day. So, I thought I just post two pictures of my sweet children that keep me happily busy throughout the day.

And maybe someday I'll post some pictures of our rainbow house.

3 Years Old and an Update on Photography Blog

2011-07-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

It's been a good week. I am an official Floridian resident as of Monday. And after a wonderful chat with my hubby (Wednesday morning) about my struggles with being a mother I have once again recharged my motherly batteries and am enjoying my little ones. Who new that all I needed to do was to vocalize my problems and have my sweet husband tell me 'your doing great, how can I help.' I love him so much. I'll have to do this sooner next.

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Another Birthday?! Yep, Daniel turned the big 3 today, which is funny because he's been telling everyone for several months that he's 3. Glad to have our little boy (click here to read about his birth and our adventure of Daniel spending 10 days in the hospital).

The kids and I decided to make our own "Birthday Hats" by cutting up Autumn's birthday sign. After Autumn shed a few tears of not getting the "pretty paper" to decorate with we had a wonderful time.

This cake turned out just fine. But I've decided that I'm through with cakes for birthdays. They are just way too sugary and I feel terrible afterwards. Maybe we'll do some homemade ice cream topped with warm berries, mmmm. We'll see...

Last week I updated the kids photos and thought I'd share a few of the Birthday Boy's funny expressions. These I took in Daniel's room and as you can see his room is a bright yellow-orange color! Not my pick but it was fun for these pictures. I'll share the other kids pics soon!

Thanks for the phone calls, cards, and presents. He enjoyed them all!

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Also, I updated my photography blog with a session from way back in February!

Yummy Recipes

2011-07-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

It's Friday and I sure feel it. It's been a long week and like most Friday's I feel pretty burnt out. We need to do something relaxing and fun. Whatever we do I think it should include some warm chocolate chip cookies. ;) Here are some other yummy dishes that I've made recently.

Quinoa is something I've never cooked with before but it's really good for you. It is a complete protein and is high in iron and calcium and much more(click here to read more about it). My first time cooking with it I made this recipe (Quinoa and Black Beans) a few weeks ago and it's quite tasty. My whole family ate it and enjoyed it even the baby (well, she's almost 1 1/2 so I'm not sure if she counts as a baby). We ate it with multigrain chips, yum-yum! So here's my plate right before dinner and here's where you can find the recipe.

This is a not so healthy treat but was fun to make (all the kids, except Lily, helped) and photograph--and eat! Homemade Funfetti Cupcakes, minus the frosting. It was sugary enough without it. Click here for the recipe!

This picture of Daniel makes me so proud. He has gone from flipping out when he sees a bug and trying to kill it to embracing bugs and letting these small insects crawl on him. He's becoming more and more like a little boy!

Have a wonderful relaxing weekend!!

Autumn's 6!

2011-07-19T12:18:00.000-07:00

Sunday we celebrated Autumn's 6th Birthday. She waited all day for her cake and presents (I didn't make her cake until that day, oops). We're so glad to have her in the family and that she's been a wonderful example to her siblings.

As you know I don't have the best of luck with birthday cakes (click here and here to see what I mean). Well with Autumn's it was no different, the recipe calls for canola oil which I thought I had. Come to find out (the day of her birthday, Sunday), I don't. So I substituted olive oil instead. For those of you who were wondering if you can use olive oil in baked goods, not the best idea. Sure we're still eating it and enjoying it but you can taste the olive oil, yuck.

P.S. I love these candles I got from Target!! I found from this blog, she uses them for all of her kids birthdays. So fun!

Thank you to everyone for wishing her a happy birthday via phone and cards! She loved it all!!

Beach Fun and Bodies are Temples

2011-07-14T04:47:00.001-07:00

A little over three weeks ago some of the ladies from our church convinced me to come with them and their kids to the New Smyrna Beach (East Coast). Assuring me that the kids would be fine because all the mom's watch out for each other's kids. Well, they were right none of my kids drowned and we all got sunburnt and had a wonderful time!

One of my favorite babysitters playing with the kids.

Lily's first attempt at surfing on a boogie board,
not bad.

My friend's little girl and my other friend's daughter,
so cute.

Once I embraced the sand and all it's sandiness
I found myself totally relaxed.

It was hard to leave the white sand, ocean breeze and waves behind. But we'll be back!

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After listening to Daniel and Lily giggling and having a good time together I decided to go see exactly what they were up to. This is what I found...

I quickly reminded Daniel that are bodies are temples and we do not draw on temples. Someday he'll understand this concept. But for those who are not quite sure what it means click here to read a wonderful article all about it. Have a great day.

Packing and Driving to Florida

2011-07-11T12:08:00.000-07:00

Packing took longer than I anticipated but it finally got done. Lily's new box home.

Mike's Mom came along for the trip and was
such a help to me and the kids. Our view while we drove. Mike driving the Uhaul and pulling our second car.

Made a stop at Mike's Granny and Grandpa's home in Pensacola. His Granny keeps the yard so pretty. We had a nice visit.

Love you sweet Granny!

More pictures to come of my trip to the beach with my 4 kids minus Mike!

Home vs. Apartment

2011-06-30T21:10:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts, I have good reasons. I've never had a house to live in and I'm learning quickly that it has it's pros and cons compared to an apartment. Pros: We get our own room. :) The kids have lots of space to run around and not have to worry about being quite for neighbors. The kids have a play room (screened in patio) and my kitchen window over looks it. And there's more but it's late and my mind is tired. Cons: More rooms to clean up. More bathrooms that need to be cleaned. And that's about it. It's just harder to keep clean. At least in our apartment I only had one space to clean and that was the living room where we pretty much lived. But now we aren't on top of each other and with that point we are loving it.

Also, I have a surprise. . . we're expecting baby #5! New job (which Mike is loving), a new home, and new baby. Sounds about right. Baby is due sometime mid January but with my luck the baby will come early February! My mom is convinced that I'm going to have 23 children but that is not the case here. I am not super woman and neither do I intend to be one.

So there's our latest and greatest and here's my good friend Echo and I saying goodbye before we left for Florida. Please excuse my bumpy hair it was the take a shower and throw my hair up hairdo. More posts and pictures later.

P.S. We are loving it here in Florida with all the green trees and the lovely beach just 50 minutes away from us. We feel like we're in paradise for sure! If any of you'd like our new home address and home phone number just email me at jessicaspeed1@gmail.com. Thanks!

We're Here!

2011-05-31T08:06:00.000-07:00

We made it to Orlando, Florida early early Thursday morning. We are still in a hotel but we'll be moving into a rental house tomorrow! Super excited. Pictures and posts to come but it might be awhile until we get internet hooked up to the house. Have a great week!

Mike in Florida Today/We Heart Seafood/A Slip Shop

2011-05-17T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today my sweetie is checking out some houses for us to rent in Florida! I am so excited to be in a house and have more space for the kids to run around! Our two bedroom apartment was just not cutting it for our family of 6. Now I need to get more packing done while he's away, I hope to surprise him so he's not overwhelmed when he gets back Wednesday night. We are packing up the moving truck Saturday and heading out Monday morning. It's all happening so fast!

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Mike and I grew up enjoying tasty seafood. So, it's only natural that we have children that love it as well.

I stayed clear out of the kitchen for this one. Mike had fresh squid from the Gulf of Mexico. The kids had no problem helping Mike clean them but I was grossed out! The kids gave me a hard time for not helping them.

Yes we even cooked the tentacles. I've had squid before and like it but not the tentacles. Mike asked me to eat them and I didn't want to but said I would if I got some type of chocolate bar. I did and got a blizzard (even better) as a reward. It was actually good and didn't tickle my throat like I thought it would.

Sunday picture with their sweet Dad.

Mike explaining to the kids how to suck the juices out first before de-shelling the shrimp.

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Here are some lovely slips that I adore. My friend Jene and her friend make them and sell on Etsy (A Slip Shop). They are meant to show off the pretty trim and add some length to skirts that other wise are little too short and they look so cute. I hope to snatch a few soon!

(Pictures from A Slip Shop)

You know it's a bad day when . . .

2011-05-13T12:50:00.000-07:00

When you forget that it's early release day for your Kindergartner and the school has to call to tell you to come pick her up. I was pretty embarrassed, but the ladies in the the school office were so kind and understanding.

The day got better when I told my kids that they could all take a bath together with bubbles and a homemade chocolate chip cookie. Luckily, nobody drowned and no one was severely injured.

And Daniel's special face just for the camera.

Happy Friday!

A Job

2011-05-10T20:40:00.000-07:00

After 11 months of unemployment we've been blessed with a job. Not just any job but the one that we've been seeking for. One that would be good for Mike's career and our family. We just needed to be patient and exercise faith. Thank you to all our family and friends who have prayed in our behalf. God does answer prayers according to His time table not ours.

Now I just need to start packing. I think I'll really enjoy living in Orlando, Florida.

This past weekend we took off to Houston to visit family. While we were at it the kids did slip and slide at my in-laws house. They had a blast.

Lily was getting thirsty.

We got to see Autumn perform tonight in her PTA Program and she did great besides talking to her neighbor between songs. Hopefully the next time one of my children perform I'll remember to give them a pep talk before hand.

Mrs. Walker has been such a wonderful teacher. She truly loves the children. I'm sad that my other kids won't get to have her.

Life is Good.

Patience

2011-05-03T20:54:00.000-07:00

This word has been heavily on my mind today. I don't know about you, but for me sometimes it's hard to wait. But then I also know that good things come to those who wait. And that it's needful for all of us to have patience if we want to become like our Father in Heaven.

Click here if need some encouraging words on having patience. I know I did and was filled with hope.

Moments like these make it easy to wait.

Dallas Zoo Part 2 and Fun Things

2011-04-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

More pictures of our adventure at the zoo.

Three of my four little penguins.

Girls trying to strike a pose while
walking with grandma, dangerous.

Rob posing with SuperMan.

Rob trying to get a kiss from Mr. Giraffe. Not really, he's just feeding the giraffe a piece of lettuce with his mouth. P.S. This is the picture that I was talking about in my last post.

Some of the simple things I'm enjoying:

Beautiful flowers from my mom and Brooklyn.

These oh so cute ice cream spoons that my mom

picked up from Ross.

My darling piggy calendar from Renee (my mother in-law).

Have you heard of Sseko \say-ko\ sandals?? Not only are they cute with interchangeable ties and can be worn various ways but (and this is why I really love them)they are hand made in Uganda by women who are earning money that will go toward their university education. Click here to read more about the birth of

Sseko Designs.

I will definitely be buying a pair very soon.

(All three pictures courtesy of Sseko Design blog.

P.S. My friend got a pair and thats how I know about them!

A Day With My Mom and Dallas Zoo Part 1

2011-04-27T20:28:00.000-07:00

My mom and Rob came into town last Thursday evening and we had a great time. Friday was wonderful because I got to spend the day with my mom.

We started it off with lunch at Whole Foods Market. This was my first time to the store and I absolutely fell in love. I felt like I child in a candy store! So fun, and so many things to look at and try. Perfect place for Mike and I to spend a date night.

Beautiful herbs!

Then we made our way to the Dallas Temple where we were able to do an endowment session together. Something that was very special since we've never have attended one together before.

After the temple we enjoyed some amazing sushi and even saved some for our hubbies. :) I will cherish this day forever. I am thankful to have spent a wonderful day with this sweet woman who I call "Mom."

Dallas Zoo Part 1

The following day we headed to the Dallas Zoo. Mike was helping a sister, that he home teaches, move that morning. It was a perfect day. Cloudy, and a bit humid with a breeze. The zoo grounds were beautiful and the animals weren't bad either.

I put my foot there so you could see how big this rabbit really is. It's about the size of Lily. Pretty amazing.

Be sure to check back for Dallas Zoo Part 2. I've got one picture that'll be worth looking at for sure!

I Updated My Photography Blog

2011-04-20T20:16:00.000-07:00

I know you can't believe it, I can't believe it myself! So here are two new posts that are overdue. I have two more to post but that'll have to wait until later. So click here to view or you can click on my sidebar Photography Blog button. Enjoy!

Keys

2011-04-20T15:35:00.000-07:00

Today has been one of those days. After showing up late and enjoying my visiting teaching appointment I realized I locked my keys in the van. I was a really stressed, Mike is still in Florida so I couldn't call him. Fortunately, I have a wonderful sister (Jene) that I visit and an awesome partner (Tara). Jene let me and Lily wait in her house for the the lock man to show up and Tara took my Brooklyn and Daniel to her place and fed them lunch. I am so thankful for earth angels and their willingness to help lift others, like myself.

Prince Charming and Egg Hunt

2011-04-19T07:05:00.000-07:00

Meet "Prince Charming." Autumn got him from school this past Friday. I told her that she could keep him and that he would be her only "Prince Charming" until she was at least 25. He looks pretty harmless.

But when I asked Autumn to hold him so I could take a picture of the two of them, she laid one on him.

Not what I was expecting. I'll have to keep my eyes on her.

Brooklyn's signature pouty face.

It was really wind that day.

Mike assisting the girls with dying some eggs for our hunt the next day.

Me trying to be artistic with my cracked egg.

Saturday we had our egg hunt and the girls and I decided to dress up for the occasion. That's a bunny that my mother made when I was younger, sweet memories.

It's pictures like these that I wish I would remember my mother's counsel when I was younger to always throw my shoulders back. Next time I'll do better.

Before we started our hunt we watched this powerful video on the true meaning of Easter. Click here to watch you'll be glad you did.

*****Today Mike is in Orlando, Florida for an interview for a JOB. Prayers would be appreciated. Thanks!

Chewed Up

2011-04-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

I feel like my body is falling apart. But that's okay, it's all part of mortality. There are lessons to be learned and this is my own special way to do just that. If I can just remember the sweet things, the simple beautiful things life has to offer then I'm good. Like today when the kids insisted on playing our game of "pirate" on our playground here in the apartments. Daniel wanted to have his turn to be the pirate and the scowl on his face was priceless.

What Lily was up to today.

This partly chewed block is my body. It still serves it's purpose but it has definitely gone through some changes.

Click here and here if you are experiencing pain and needing some comfort.

Another simple beautiful thing in life for me is watching Mike dance with the kids and then me joining in.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Back to our little Gym

2011-04-06T09:37:00.000-07:00

Monday and Tuesday have been quite the day. As of last Thursday I was working out in the early mornings for the past two weeks. And I felt so much better emotionally and physically. You could find me singing in the early mornings and being silly with the kids. But after my workout (which included some spartan exercises, which really was a challenge) Thursday I was super achy in my arms and legs. So I took a break Friday and Saturday and (Sunday I don't workout, naturally) Monday and Tuesday. So yesterday I decided that it's better to be achy and emotionally happy then just plain depressed. So I did me and everyone else in our family a huge favor and got up this morning to exercise and I feel so much better. I'm fatigued but I have a smile on my face.

Daniel and Brooklyn wanting to make their own sandwiches yesterday. I agreed seeing how I wasn't being the best mommy that day.

"The Most Wonderful Time of the Year"

2011-04-05T08:03:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was exactly that phrase. Saturday and Sunday was General Conference and it was amazing. If you haven't watched it you can by clicking here. I will be going back listening, watching, and reading about it for sure.

Friday I got to go the temple with my sweetheart (usually we take turns while the other one stays home with the kids). It was a sweet experience. I am so grateful to be married to my husband not just for this earth life but for the eternities.

(Our temple where we were married, the St. George Temple)

Daniel's prayer

2011-03-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

"... bless Brooklyn to eat her food, bless Lily to not yell, bless Daddy to get a job, bless Mommy to rest . . ."
That last phrase was just what I needed today.

That "Blue Princess" is our little Daniel. Confused? Just a little but I think he'll grow out of it, right?

Homemade Califorina Rolls and Our Pride and Joy

2011-03-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

Last week I spent a good amount of my day making these yummy california rolls (fake crab meat, avocado, and cucumber). Mikey loved them and the girls enjoyed theirs as well. And I finally got to use this lovely plate, thanks Celeste!

A member of our church offered us plot of land in his backyard to do a garden. All he asked was for us to plant some zucchini for him (he and his wife are elderly have not been able to plant for several years). Under the direction of this good man and with the help of the kids Mike was able to rip out the sod and make it into a nice garden.

Me and Lily.

My allergies were terrible that day.

After a few days of Mike working hard we got to see the finished product. Nice and neat. Now we just have to wait for them to sprout.

When we have a backyard of our own we'll be doing the

square foot gardening method. I can't wait.

Here's an article that really got Mike and I motivated and excited about gardening "Seeds of Self Reliance".

Goodbye dish rack!

2011-03-21T07:52:00.000-07:00

Mike and I have been washing dishes by hand all our married life. When we lived in Idaho we had a dishwasher but did not produce many dirty dishes so we washed by hand. Then in Springville, Utah we didn't have a dishwasher for 4 years. When we moved to Dallas we now had a dishwasher but still enjoyed the washing by hand method.

But last week I had the desire for the first time during our 7 years of married life to use the dishwasher. I think the four kids have really helped in this switch. So I bought the soap and yesterday was my first time using it and it was awesome! I am so thankful the inventors of the dishwasher what a blessing!

(My kitchen didn't always look this bad, just right after a meal).

7 Years of Love

2011-03-17T23:29:00.000-07:00

Saturday, March 12 Mike and I celebrated our 7th anniversary in style. We didn't have a babysitter but did the next best thing. Movie for the kids while Mike and I enjoyed take out.

I sure love sushi!

Mike + sushi = Perfect Anniversary

Here we are 7 years ago. Mike looks the same but I had more of me to love back then.

A few of the many reasons why I love this man.
-He loves to dance and sing (like he's the lead singer) and I just melt, totally twitter-pated.

Example: This past Christmas we participated in the annual Christmas Talent Show on Mike's side of the family. We sang Billy Joel's "For the Longest Time" as a family. Mike was the lead and the kids and I were the back up. He was singing to me and I was in heaven.

-When he works hard he looks like a stud. His hair gets all ruffled and I love it. (More about these pictures later).

-He loves to fish and I love to eat it.

-He's not afraid to be one of the kids.

-Lastly, he'll always be there for me to hold onto when life's trials come along.

Happy Anniversary Mikey!

Shoes/Best Burger/Lily's Birth Day

2011-03-10T21:19:00.000-08:00

I took these lovely shoes out for an early (5:30 a.m.) run. Something I been wanting to do but not having the drive to wake up. I give Daniel a big thanks for being that "drive"/coming into our bed around 4:20 this morning. I ran a little over 3 miles and it was awesome! I felt like super woman. Of course now I'm sore and won't be able to move tomorrow but I think I'm onto something real good.

Best Burger!

Yes, this is my lunch that I had yesterday. A yummy homemade bean burger with cheese, tomatoes, spinach, and ketchup, mustard, and mayo. With a few almonds and a tall glass of green smoothie. We had these the night before (and Mike really enjoyed them and the kids too, except that I put a few too many crushed red peppers) hence I was able to quickly throw this together. A power lunch for sure.

Lily's 1st Birthday

Lily our Sunshine. If you'll recall this cutie didn't want to come out of her comfy home.

Not to sure what it is and does not try a single lick. It must have been all those green smoothies I had when I was pregnant with her. ;) Just kidding, she ate lot of her dinner right before.

I am so glad she finally joined our family.

Lunch

2011-03-04T14:25:00.000-08:00

I had several helpings of my red velvet birthday cake and a glass of green smoothie. Yumm. Not my typical lunch but I think very appropriate for a mother of young children.

The Big 26

2011-03-01T21:30:00.000-08:00

What a relaxing day. Mike fed the kids breakfast, took Autumn to school and spent the day with the kids (fed them lunch, took care of Daniel's accident, took them to the store to buy "decorations" and food for dinner). While I took it slow, I took a shower (what a treat!!), did my hair (brushed it, blow dried it, velcro rollered it, another special treat), and then left to enjoy my other birthday gift from Mike some time at a spa!! I was planning to do a facial and massage but with quitting the whole nursing thing I can't bare the thought of laying on my tummy side (ouch)! So, I opted for a pedicure instead. My favorite was the facial, very relaxing (soothing music, dimmed lights, a little trickling water fountain, and a warm comfy bed to lay in with lotion and warm booties on your feet! I can only imagine how amazing a massage would be...

While I was away I counted my blessings of being able to stay home and take care of our sweet children. They a so kind and loving and I do love my job even though it's tough and sometimes I want a vacation from motherhood.

To make this short I had a wonderful birthday. Lots of happy tears from me (I was a little too emotional for my liking) feeling like I didn't deserve to have such a loving family. Despite my flaws and my many mistakes I make as a person they love me! Thanks to my sweetheart Mikey and children for a wonderful birthday. And thanks to all my family for calling and sending me cards, it meant a lot to me.

Lily wishing me happy birthday in her own special way.

Mike working hard in the kitchen making a yummy salad for our dinner.

The kids singing/honking happy birthday to me.

This is the best part...Brooklyn eating a big bite of anchovy and all she says is "It's not strong but I still don't like it." She incited on having that big bite, she amazed me. I allowed Mike to put a little bits of anchovy on my salad and I made a stink about it. Anchovies are way tooo fishy for my liking.

My homemade red velvet birthday cake. It was delish!!

Things Not To Do

2011-02-28T10:35:00.000-08:00

Do not quit nursing "cold turkey" (not my choice but the baby's) and potty train your little boy all in the same week. Especially if your birthday is the next day. All you'll want to do is have a pity party. Luckily, I have not gone to my room and locked the door yet. But maybe that would be better than being frustrated and letting a tear or two seep out in front of the kids.

(As you have noticed I haven't updated my photography blog yet, hopefully this week).

Special

2011-02-24T04:49:00.000-08:00

I have discovered that if you want to have special birthday all you have to do is tell your kids that your birthday is coming up. My birthday is Tuesday and my kids heard Mike discussing my big day and have been making me cards/pictures and occasionally breaking out singing "Happy Birthday" for the past week. It's been super special.

I've got some fun things planned for me this year all thanks to my sweetheart!

These pictures have nothing to do with birthdays but they are special. Brooklyn and Daniel were showing me how to wear some article of clothing while we were doing laundry.

Sometime this week I'll update my photography blog of some pictures that I've taken for friends. Be sure to check it out!

Dad and Dustin Family=Fun Weekend

2011-02-22T20:48:00.000-08:00

My dad came up from Houston on Friday and it was a breath of fresh air for me. I'm so glad to have family around, thanks Dad.

My sweeties pausing for a quick picture.

Then on Saturday and Sunday we had our friends the Dustin Family come visit us from Austin. Our kids had great time playing together. As for the adults, we enjoyed visiting while the kids ran around laughing and yelling.

On Sunday the ladies in our church enjoyed watching both of our families walking in together with our seven little kids ages 5 and under. The adults were definitely out numbered.

Sweet Janet (who is expecting in June) and I and Mike with his buddy and practically twin Matt.

Their little Ian trying to make a move on Miss Lily.

Thanks Dustin Family for a fun weekend. On Monday I was officially off my antibiotics (which made me drowsy) for bronchitis. Life is good.

I felt so good on Monday that I cut Daniel's hair and he once again looks like a handsome boy!

Before After

Happy Lovers Day

2011-02-14T12:10:00.000-08:00

Before I talk about what day it is here is why I haven't posted in a while. Saturday, Feb. 5 I got sick with the dreaded flu (chills and fever, body ache, etc). That night Mike got it too. That whole week our home was a war zone. It was bad.

While we were sick the girls ears started hurting. We learned that if you take garlic and cut it in half and set it on top of the ear the juices will seep into the ear and heal the ear infection. With that new knowledge we were able to save two doctor visits.

I'm still sick with a low grade temperature, yucky cough, and stuffy nose. Today I'm going to the doctor and am so thrilled.

This is what I got to start my sickness off with. A lovely show by Brooklyn and Daniel on our table.

Happy Valentine's Day to my sweetheart. I am so lucky to be married to my best friend and lover. Hope you all have a wonderful Valentine's Day! (And yes we need an updated picture of the two of us).

Cold and Sick

2011-02-04T16:24:00.000-08:00

It snowed early Tuesday Morning. School was closed. And it stayed that way until Thursday.

I woke up this morning and thought that I was back in Utah. Texas is just not equipped for this kind of weather so the school was closed today as well. Despite the kids taking turns being sick this week they made their way out for a few minutes to enjoy the snow and freeze their hands and toes.

Mike explaining to me that he had scrapped the whole walk way with his boat oar before our neighbor girl let him borrow her snow shovel for the ifinishing touches. I love this man.

Autumn is whimpering at this point wanting to go in due to her frozen fingers.

Have a wonderful warm weekend everyone!

Thoughts

2011-02-02T20:58:00.000-08:00

I made 100% whole wheat bread in my bosch mixer yesterday that not only tasted good but did not end up as a brick. I owe it all to joyousnotions. They showed and explain how to make bread in the bosch mixer. Something I just couldn't get.

Speaking of baking, while I was in the kitchen the other day doing dishes I felt like something was missing. It was my apron. I used to not wear one at all but now I have to have it. It helps boost my self confidence on those days when my hair isn't done and I'm wearing yesterday's makeup.

This is the picture that was supposed to be "my new haircut" but I don't like the way it turned out at all. Maybe I'm missing my long hair or the fact that I'm too skinny. Probably both. I need to get Mike to take a picture of me before church. That's when I actually spend some quality time on myself.

I wish I had Brooklyn's style. She picks out her own clothes and always (well most of the time) looks so cute and fun.

We moved. . .

2011-01-26T20:42:00.000-08:00

to the living room. Mike and I used to share the master with Little Miss Lily but one has to be able to get some sleep at night. So, we took our comfortable foam mat (that goes on top of our bed) out of the storage garage. During the day you'll find it nicely folded next to our couch and at night we pull it out. I had the kids get in the bed and look at books just for this picture, nice.

Gymnast

2011-01-24T19:47:00.001-08:00

Our little Daniel is one fun little boy. He loves to dress up in his "gymnastics" leotard almost everyday. He loves to wear princess dresses and dance with his sisters. Having two older sisters what else would you expect?

Yes, that cute short blond hair girl is our Daniel. And Brooklyn sporting her head band that she wears most everyday.

Last weeks Family Home Evening was on tithing. I had to excuse myself to feed the baby and this is what I came out to. Daniel, displaying one of his many talents, taking his clothes off.

And please take note of the shirt that Mike is wearing. It is one of my favorite shirts on him. He looks so attractive in it! ;) (Thanks Mom).

Brooklyn excited to "share".

My sweet baby. I love babies.

P.S. Sunday was a great day for me. I got up early to shower and do my makeup and hair (all of which doesn't happen often) for Church. I wore my gray dress that I got for Christmas from my Secret Santa and arrived early (more than 10 minutes before the meeting). The best part was after church when my sweet husband told me that I looked stunning that day with the dress, my hair, and everything he was in awe (my choice of word to best describe what he was conveying to me). All I have to say is thank you to my Secret Santa for the beautiful dress, and thank you Mom for inspiring me to buy and use velcro rollers (it's been awhile)! I enjoyed hearing him tell me that so much that I'm going to try to do a better job at taking care of my self. Wish me luck!

Enjoying Life

2011-01-18T18:27:00.000-08:00

Life has been pretty crazy these past several months. But I know that life is this way for everyone. Two weeks ago today I had the chance to enjoy the little things in life with the help of my sweet children. While I was cooking in the kitchen they were doing they're own cooking on the floor. The girls and Daniel enjoyed giving Lily water from their pots and then proceeded to dump the water on her head. During this whole time I enjoyed watching them having a good time together and making a watery mess on the floor. It was so good to just let go and let them have at it. Things don't have to be "perfect" and as I learn to embrace that logic instead of fighting it I will be a happy woman.

Visit with "Super Mom"

2011-01-18T17:02:00.000-08:00

January 6

The kids (minus Autumn who was at school) met up with Ash (a.k.a "Super Mom") and Travis and cousins who were in the area. The kids had an awesome time with their cousins and aunt and uncle. It was also good to visit with Ash but as you can see from the pictures she was busy entertaining the kids and having a hay day doing it! Thanks Ash and Travis!

2011-01-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

Still Here

2010-12-31T20:10:00.000-08:00

So much to say and I don't have the time, energy, or words to do so. :)

Merry Belated Christmas!

Sweet Lily who is getting so big!

Hope everyone has a Happy New Year!

P.S. Haircut picture soon to come!!

Rain + Swimsuits = FUN!

2010-10-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

Two weekends ago we decided to try out our swimsuits in the rain. The kids and Mike had so much fun and I enjoyed taking a million pictures while staying somewhat dry under a umbrella. Lilly opted for a nap instead of joining us. ;)

I had Mike take a quick picture to document that I was there.

Love this picture of my handsome husband with our cute little ladies.

Q & A with the Speed Kids 2010 (for the Grandparents)

2010-09-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

Enjoy!