Dave * April * Susie * Lennon

Residency...

2011-03-19T19:31:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can hardly believe that we have about reached the time for residency! Crazy how time moves by in what feels like a blink!!!
Well, we found out this week just where residency will be....

Boston, Massachusetts!

We are super excited (I'm excited to be a 4 hour drive from NYC, one of my favorite places!). It's going to be an interesting move considering that we are in LA for the next few months... we'll be moving from sea to shining sea!

Dave has worked so hard to get to this point and I'm just so so proud of him!

Gingerbread House Tradition

2010-12-31T20:01:00.000-08:00

It is a tradition in our family to make gingerbread houses. My family would usually make a competition out of it... asking one of our poor neighbors to be the judge and pick their favorite candy-decked-out house. So so fun. Susie and I had a great time together, just us two, creating our gingerbread houses. The best part was having the one on one time with Susie. It was so fun to see her creativity go to work...Susie's gingerbread house, so cute!...My gingerbread house...Lennon's little dinosaur found a good home...Silly Susie and I...

First Snow Fall of the Winter!

2010-12-31T19:31:00.000-08:00

Since we are living in warm New Mexico this month, we were unsure if we would experience any snow this winter. It is just a strange thing for me to not have snow in December... I've always lived somewhere that did. So, I have been wishing that it would snow at least once so the kids and I could build a snowman, have a snowball fight, make snow angels, and just crunch around in it! My wish came true just a few days before Christmas! It snowed just an inch or two and melted away the same day, but the kids and I still got-in some good play time!

Susie chose me as her target while throwing snowballs...Lennon throwing a snowball at me: Hot Chocolate to warm us up after all our snow fun!

The Happiest Place on Earth...

2010-12-20T06:46:00.000-08:00

While we were staying in California last month, and since we will be living there for 5 months soon (Dave has a core rotation in LA)... we got season passes to Disneyland! I am such a kid when it comes to Disneyland, I love it! I love the detail that goes into every ride and throughout the park. Visiting around Christmas time was additionally magical... the decorations, the huge decked-out trees, and it even "snowed" fake snow occasionally! The teacups: A highlight at Disneyland was seeing Mickey Mouse!

Lennon was ecstatic to see him and didn't want to leave his sight!
One of the kids favorite rides was Buzz Lightyear!

Especially for Lennon... he is obsessed with Toy Story!Susie trying to catch the fake snowflakes on her tongue:

Susie and I in front of the Rapunzel Tower:

Susie waiting in line for one of her favorite rides, Winnie the Pooh:We wore the kids out... we wanted to keep on going, but when Lenny lied down on the cold ground we knew it was time to go... after we went on the ride we were in line for though!

Here, There, and Everywhere

2010-12-19T19:31:00.000-08:00

Wow. Life has been a bit crazy lately... an adventure to say the least. We moved from Chicago, our home for the last 3 and 1/2 years, this past August. Since then, we have lived in Michigan, Utah, Washington, California, and now... New Mexico. And, our traveling is not done yet...
Dave is in his final months of Medical school (MONTHS!!!). Each month he has a new externship (clerkship) in a new area throughout the US. The kids and I have been fortunate to travel to most of them with him. We get to experience an unknown land (unknown to us that is), and best of all be with Dave. It has been quite an adventure, but one can only be uprooted for so long before missing a place to call "home". It will be nice to have that again... in the not-too-far future. So for now, we will enjoy our journeying to here, there, and everywhere!

Impromptu Photo Shoot

2010-10-17T22:27:00.000-07:00

It is so hard to get pictures of my kids... they have energy to burn, wiggles to let loose, things to explore, and just do not want to stop and say "cheese". On our way to church today they gifted me with a rare chance to snap some less-wiggly shots!

Susie, 4 Years Beautiful!

2010-08-16T17:02:00.000-07:00

Our Susie turned 4 last month! I can't believe it! She is growing... growing... growing! She brings our family the deepest joy, the greatest love, and a little spice as well! She is a little sponge who loves to learn, her imagination is grand and constantly in use, she is the puzzle queen, loves books and her princess dolls, enjoys adding and subtracting (really!), loves to dance and sing (mostly songs she makes up), she is fast and takes-on any challenge to race, she makes-up games to play... the games always begin with her saying, "Do you want to play a game? It's called..." (i.e. "panda hold your hand"), she enjoys nothing more than dressing up in fancy attire, she is a "real" princess... she is our princess.

Birthday's 1, 2, 3...

... and now she's 4!!!Birthday morning:
Presents!!!!
Some of Susie's favorite presents....
We went to Toy Story 3 (so good!):

In the evening, we went to a fun aquatic center... the kids LOVED it!Lennon is a little dare-devil! He kept jumping in the pool, dunking his head under, and rolling around in the water... I saw the life guard eye-balling him.4 candles to make a wish.... ... We could not have wished for more! How blessed we are with our beautiful 4 year old!!!

We love you Susie Boo!!!

Happy National Dance Day!

2010-07-31T19:58:00.000-07:00

It is the first ever National Dance Day today. I have been celebrating by busting moves all day long... I've done the running man, the moon walk, jete's, pirouettes, and on and on! I love dance. I love to dance, I love watching dance, I love teaching dance, I love talking about dance. Dance is more than movement to me... it is joy. So, Happy National Dance Day! Bust a move!

Kentucky

2010-07-31T10:43:00.000-07:00

Dave had an externship in Louisville, Kentucky for a whole month. The kids and I really missed him... so we drove down to visit him over Independence Day weekend. The drive to Kentucky was suppose to take 5 1/2 hours, but it took the kids and I almost 8... poor Susie threw-up all over, while we were in the middle of no-where, and all I had were baby wipes to clean it up, yuck. But... even though the drive was not what I would call fun, it was so worth it to see Dave and spend the great weekend we had with him in Kentucky.

Kentucky Derby
We went to the beautiful Churchill Downs and watched a couple horse races, which were quite exciting. I especially loved all the ladies in their huge, fancy hats.
Mammoth Cave National Park
Best part of our weekend was camping in Mammoth Cave National Park.

Lennon loving the flashlight:Susie loving her apple:

Here's poor Dave trying to blow up our huge air mattress. Our pump was not working so Dave just laid on the tent floor and blew, blew, blew......

..... and blew, blew, blew!
(Yes, he is under there somewhere still blowing!) To our great surprise, there was a firework display happening miles away that we could see from our tent!!! We all ooohhed and aaahhed while lying in our little tent in the forest... it was awesome! Susie enjoying the Kentucky wilderness:

While packing-up camp the next morning, we found this tick buried into Dave's skin. We checked everyone else thoroughly and found another one in Susie's back! Yuck!

We saw this turtle trying to cross the road... he was probably trying to get to the other side (wah, wah), but we thought we'd put him somewhere safe, after holding him for a while. :)

Mammoth Cave
We got to go on a tour of one of the caves in the National Park. It was "grand, gloomy, and a peculiar place" as put by our tour guide.

Excited Susie first entering the cave:

Susie and Lennon inside the cave... they're so cute!:

Susie exploring part of the cave (she looks like a hunchback with her jacket covering her backpack!):

It was a fun weekend... the best part was seeing Dave! So so glad he's back!!!

Susie's Preschool Graduation/Moving Forward

2010-07-26T18:25:00.000-07:00

Susie LOVED preschool this year! She learned so much and made new friends. I was truly amazed with her increased knowledge... she can figure out simple addition and subtraction problems, she's writing letter's and small words... she has just amazed me!!! I'm so proud of my sweet girl!
Her preschool class had a "graduation/moving up" celebration at the end of the school year. The children sang songs, recited a poem, parents shared special thoughts about their children, etc.

Susie with her "diploma":

Susie's School Friends...Susie's Teachers...

Miss Sam: Miss Sandi (Susie's "favorite"): Susie was asked what she wanted to be when she grows up and she said "A Princess" of course! She's already our Princess :) ...

Video of Susie singing one of her preschool songs...

Running for Ashton

2010-07-07T17:13:00.000-07:00

There is a sweet, angel of a girl in our ward named Ashton. She is about Susie's age, 3 1/2. Ashton has cancer. She has lost her hair from chemo, but is still all smiles. It breaks my heart that she and her sweet parents have such an enormous trial to face. I can't help but think of my own 3 year old, my Susie, when I think about Ashton... and I crumble. My prayers are with her and her family. I am honored to be part of a fundraiser event for Ashton. Check-out the details of how you can get involved (and vote for me!!!) at runningforashton.blogspot.com

5K

2010-06-27T18:36:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Dave and I ran a 5K. Dave got 1st place in his division and I got 2nd in mine.... it was a small group of people, 60 or so, but hey we'll take it! Me, Dave, and our friend Derrick... showing off our awesome medals! ;)
This next picture of our family just cracks me up... we have a great backdrop: the restrooms, my face is cherry red, Dave is squinting one of his eyes (due to his eye surgery), and both of our children are chowing down on their apples! Ha Ha... Too great!

May in Utah

2010-06-26T18:32:00.000-07:00

Dave had a clerkship in Utah this past May, which allowed us to visit with family for a whole month! Poor Dave worked 12-14 hour days.... while I enjoyed beautiful Utah with the fam.

Waterfall

Susie and Grandma Dorothy walking to a waterfall in Provo:We were super lucky to arrive in Utah just in time to see Dave's brother Scott and his family (even though it was for just a few short hours)!

Below is Scott, Dorothy, and Dave:Our little family:Cute Siena just lovin' all the beanie babies at Grandma's house:

Cousin Time
We had lots of fun play dates with cousins. Here we are at my Joy of a sister, Sadie's house. Pearl, Susie, Sofie, and Sadie swinging in the backyard:Lennon trying out the climbing wall.... my brave boy!

Kisses from Susie Boo:

Susie and Pearl (and bunny):

Lennon LOVED this little car: Working in the Garden

Susie showing off her beloved Dora-the-Explorer watering can:Planting lettuce with Bestemor.... a highlight of the trip! Susie LOVED working in the garden with my mom! Susie watering the newly planted lettuce: Tulip Festival

We went to the tulip festival at Thanksgiving Point and it was just breath-takingly beautiful!Sadie and Ava:Everyone wants to be by Bestemor:

We had to drag the kids away from this fountain. They LOVED it...Daddy's Home!

With Dave's loooonnnggg hours at the hospital we hardly saw him! The kids didn't see him some days, because he would leave to work before they woke up and get home after they were in bed. But, when we did see him... the kids got SO excited and would run right to him (as would I)! :)

GRANDpa John and GRANDma Effie

We had a Mother's Day lunch with Dorothy, Grandpa John, and Grandma Effie. It is always such a treat to be with them!

Below is Effie and Susie reading Where the Wild Things Are (one of Susie's favorite's!). Effie is an AMAZING storyteller! Dave and Grandpa John... handsom fellas!:

Susie and Grandma Effie:

Making Cookies with Bestemor
Susie and Bestemor made sugar cookies together. Oh so yummy!

Susie was a better taste-tester than baker....More sprinkles anyone???.....
Let's go Fly a Kite
Lennon chased some ducks, while Susie and Bestemor had a go at kite flying:

The kite flying was going quite well until... the kite dived into the lovely duck pond. Oops!

Lennon was obsessed with this stroller at my parents house! He would push it, climb on it, put toys on it.... he just couldn't get enough! lol!

Robbie Lennon found a great pal in Bestemor:
Birthday Lunch with the Ladies

The amazing women in my family (and all the cute kids too) took me out to lunch for a early birthday celebration. Good food, good company, good times... This picture just makes me chuckle! Sadie with Ava wearing a clown's hat:

Thanks you Utahns!!!! Love from Chicago!

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

Dave is such a wonderful Dad! Susie and Lennon absolutely adore him! They get so excited when he walks through the door after work. We love you, Dave!!! Happy Father's day!!!Lennon made this Father's Day gift for Dave (in Nursery) today:Susie made this #1 Fan flag for Dave at pre-school (she was SOOO proud of it!):

This is a short video of Susie singing a Father's Day song. She sang it in church today:

Swim Lessons for Susie

2010-06-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

Susie took some swim lessons while we were staying in Utah last month. She LOVED it!!! It was a real basic course, but it has given her more confidence in the water.

Susie with her Swim Instructor, Corinne:Susie learning to submerge her face under the water (with her class):

Susie's favorite... jumping into the water!:

This last picture was taken after her last swim lesson. She told me that she was sitting like a princess! Her knees together and legs tucked to one side... she cracks me up!!! Our precious little princess!

Lunch with Good Ol' Friends and Silent Spring

2010-06-10T07:10:00.000-07:00

While in Utah, I met up with two of my good friends for lunch.... Jami and Trish (with cutie-pie son Laird, and baby girl baking in the oven). I danced with these two girls in High school and college. I have so many fun memories with these two... memories that are fond and memories that would make me pee-my-pants laughing. Always so good to see them... Thanks for the lunch ladies!!!

Jami, Trish, Laird, me, and Susie:

Also.... Jami is now the Artistic Director for the Dance Department at my High School and had asked me to choreograph a piece for this years concert. The concert theme was THINK GREEN. My piece was inspired by the book Silent Spring by ecologist Rachel Carson... which, simply put, was written to warn the public of the long-term affects of misusing pesticides. I enjoyed every moment of the creative process and with working with the dancers and Jami! The concert was wonderful (even without my piece... wink, wink)! I'm so proud of you James!!! Thanks so much for the opportunity! I LOVED it!

Moab

2010-06-02T09:10:00.000-07:00

We went camping to beautiful Moab, Utah last month with my side of the family. It was a biking- hiking- lizard hunting-marshmallow roasting-kite flying good time!

Lennon was a natural hiker:

Such a cute cute boy!... These cousins couldn't get enough of their surroundings. So much to explore!
My brother Steve, Kite Flying while riding his bike... Colorado River... Malia, Aaron Jr., and Susie:
Dave (and Steve) leaping into the FrEeZiNg cold water:
Lennon after he walk/fell into the (freezing) water:
Arches National Park:

Hiking to Delicate Arch:My parents both helped carry the grandkids up and down the hike (they have Viking-blood in them!).

Grandpa and Lennon and Bestemor with Isaac: Susie hiking around and Lennon sharing his sucker with me on our hike: I had never been to the Delicate Arch before... so, when I came around the cliff and saw it for the first time in person it took my breath away! So awesome!
My cute parents:
All the cute cousins (minus baby Evan): The Family:

Tomorrow on OPRAH!!!

2010-04-08T09:20:00.001-07:00

Last month I was lucky enough to get tickets for a taping of the Oprah show (for the 2nd time!)!!! My mom and sister flew out to Chicago for it... and it was a BLAST!
The show that we attended is being televised tomorrow... here is a link to a preview of the show (you can actually see my sister and the back of my head for a fraction of a second in this preview):

http://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/Fridays-Live-Superstar-Kenny-Chesney_1

We were sitting on the SECOND row, towards the middle... we were SO close that with just one leap we would have easily landed on Oprah!!! ;)
Pictures to come... when I get around to it! But, until then... look for us in the second row tomorrow!

RS Birthday Celebration

2010-03-18T20:22:00.000-07:00

My friend Michelle and I were asked to decorate a table for our Relief Society's enrichment night. It was way back in March... and we were celebrating the RS's own b-day so was the theme for the night. There were about six other tables and each table was designed for a certain age group, and was to have a theme, party favor, invitation ideas, game ideas, cake idea, and the decorations.
Our age group was for 3-8 year old.

Our theme:
Ice Cream Party!

Invitation: 3-D Ice Cream Cone card (Made by Michelle--Super cute!!)

Games/Activities: Catch the "Scoops of Ice Cream" (Balloons) in Your Cone game, Pin the Cherry on the Ice Cream Cone, Color/Decorate Your own Soda Jerk Hat, Obstacle Course, Make Your own Ice Cream Sundae!

Party Favor: Small ice cream bowl, candy, swirly straw, and bubbles in an ice cream cone shaped container.

Decorations: Ice Cream Cone balloon center piece, Bowls of Ice Cream toppings/goodies, Streamers hung on the back of the chairs, Paper ice cream cones and sundaes to hang on the walls. Cake: Cupcake ConesMichelle and Me:

Ready for Summer!!!

2010-03-18T20:03:00.000-07:00

Susie was playing quietly upstairs... when I went up to check on her I found her ready for the beach!
Not only was she wearing her swimsuit, but a speedo as well... along with her boogie-board! We put Lennon in his swim shorts... to let him in on the fun:

Pretending the bed is the ocean:

What Did You Wear for St. Patrick's Day?

2010-03-17T20:36:00.000-07:00

We received a hilariously crazy package from my mom: Green outfits for each of us... found at her local thrift store. All she asked in return: a picture of us in our "new outfits" in our front yard. Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Minnesota Friends

2010-03-17T19:29:00.000-07:00

A couple weekends ago, we were able to visit our friends, the Moores, who live in Minnesota. We had a wonderful time... they were SO nice and welcoming (i.e. giving us their bed, while they took the couch and floor!, feeding us delicious homemade meals and goodies, etc.). We were able to go to a fun Kids Science Museum while in Minnesota. The kids loved it... and so did we!

Susie trying out a laser harp:

Building walls with over-sized foam bricks:
Ryan lifting Dave with pulleys:

Ryan and Susie checking out their funny reflections in the warped mirrors:

Lennon, Ryan, and Susie playing so nicely together:

Thanks again, Moores!!! We had a great time! We look forward to your visit to Chicago! :)

Squished Finger

2010-03-01T18:37:00.000-08:00

Susie had to go to the emergency room two Sundays ago. Someone accidently closed the door on her finger after church... it was so swollen, bleeding like crazy, and black and blue. The doctor had to burn a hole in her fingernail and drain out the blood to relieve the pressure. They also took x-rays of her finger to make sure it wasn't fractured. Poor girl!

Ice Skating

2010-03-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

During the winter, there are outdoor ice-rinks near where we live. I've always loved driving past and seeing people glide along. Well, just last week we miraculously found 3 pairs of ice-skates at the Salvation Army (a thrift store) that fit Dave, Susie, and I perfectly! So, we have been able to get out and enjoy some skating!

Susie with her new (used) skates:

Susie holding on tight to Dave's hand... she mostly just let us do all the work.Lennon watching from the side:Olympic Figure-Skating pose:Me going for the Gold Medal:Dave falling on his face (for the fourth time... he, he):

Family of Snow

2010-02-22T19:45:00.000-08:00

I LOVE making snow-people each winter... reminds me of younger years with my siblings, and is just fun!

The kids mostly enjoyed watching mom and dad make the snow-people... maybe next year they'll join in on the fun! :)

Snow Susie: Snow April (looks just like me!):Snow Lennon: Snow Dave:The whole fam:

Purple-People-Eater

2010-02-22T19:38:00.000-08:00

Silly Susie found all the purple snow clothes we owned (who knew we had so much purple winter attire?) and with much energy performed her best monster moves.

Snow Days...

2010-02-22T19:29:00.000-08:00

I love the sparkle of falling snow and crunching it beneath my heavy boots. Yes, it can be too cold at times, but winter (during its allotted time) is welcomed by me.

Heaven Bound Valentine

2010-02-09T18:15:00.000-08:00

I let Susie pick out a box of Valentine cards at the grocery store to send to her cousins and Grandparents. When we got home, Susie chose one by one which card would go to this cousin or that cousin, etc. I asked her what she wanted to say on each card, to each individual.... and I jotted down exactly what she said, even the weird, random things (such as I love Sophie and I love socks! And stickers too!).
When she was choosing a card for my nephew Aaron Jr. she said something that was just too sweet. She said:
"Mommy, let's throw a card up to Heaven for Aaron's Daddy... Uncle Aaron. I think he would like that. I love Uncle Aaron."
Pull at my heart strings... I smiled at her sweet little face and told her that would be a great idea, and that surely Uncle Aaron would LOVE a Valentine from her. She choose the following card with care....

.... so Happy Valentines Day uncle Aaron... brother. You may not be able to catch our Valentine, but we hope you always catch/feel our deep love that is for you. Te amo.

6 Years FLY!

2010-01-19T16:32:00.000-08:00

Dave and I celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary at the end of December. It is just CrAzY that it has been 6 Years!!! Time truly does FLY when you're having fun!

We were still in Utah for our anniversary, my mom so kindly took the kids for us so we could enjoy a night out to celebrate. We went indoor skydiving at a place called iFLY. It was pretty awesome!Dave and I standing outside the chamber after our 'flying' experience.

Here is a video of what can be done in the skydiving chamber at iFLY... Dave and I did NOT look like this in the least! We were pretty much in one position for our entire iFLY experience.... but, this guy (an employee at iFLY) was amazing!!!

We also went out to dinner and a movie (Sherlock Holmes... we recommend it!).

What a great 6 years... it's been filled with adventure, joy, and most importantly LOVE! Can't wait for more!

Utah Christmas Vacation

2010-01-19T15:50:00.000-08:00

We spent our Christmas Vacation in Utah with our families. We had a great time! Susie decorating sugar cookies with her Bestamor. Sprinkles galore!!!
Dave, Susie, and I visited my dear brother Aaron's grave on Christmas Eve. There is a peaceful feeling there. Dave said a beautiful prayer at the site, then we left a lit lantern on the headstone, and a heart ornament on the Christmas tree my parents had placed by the grave. We missed him deeply during the holiday's (as always), but my heart is just full of gratitude that he was and is my brother. Love you, Aaron.

Lennon by the tree... had to keep my eyes on this one. Oh, how he loved to UN-ornament the tree!

Christmas Eve

Sister Sadie Joy, me, and my Mamma Mia!

The cousins gathering around for the Nativity story.

Grace holding Lennon.

Susie, the wise man.

Nick, Lennon, and Christa.

Grandpa holding Lennon, Sadie and Ava.

Susie and Dave performed "Must be Santa" together. It was DARLING!
Dave dressed-up as Santa... love the square chest and SUPER curly hair! Susie didn't realize that it was her own dad....

.... Lennon didn't realize it was his own dad either! Poor guy, he was scared to death!

Christmas Morning

Lennon and Susie excited to see what Santa left under the tree!

Digging through the goods in the stockings!

Susie trying on her new fancy dress-ups.

... I think she likes her new attire! :)

Christmas Day

We spent Christmas afternoon and night at Grandma Dorothy's house.

Jak loving his new Hulk-hands!

Dorothy, Scott, Mal, and baby Siena (poor girl was sick the whole night!).

Quincy and Sus so nicely sharing their new Christmas toys. They played so well together!

Grandma Dorothy took us to a Dinosaur museum at Thanksgiving Point some time after Christmas. Susie loved it! Here she is posing next to her new Dino friend.

My parents hosted a New Year's Day Party for all the Grand-kids. Here are most of the Grand-kids huddled near Bestemor... they all adore her!

Pearl showing Lennon her raspberry fingers.

Lennon pushing Aaron Jr. on the trike, while Sophie tries to stop them.

Bestemor and Grandpa gave all the kids a little piggy bank to paint and decorate. The kids loved their art project! Just look at this messy fun!

After the kids piggy banks were all decorated, they played "JINGO" (Bingo with a Christmas twist) where they earned some coins to go into their piggy bank each time they filled up a row on their boards. (This picture of Susie just makes me laugh... she put these foam stickers on her face and would not take them off!)

We had a great time (as always) with our families over the Holidays... time flew by! Love to you all, from Chicago!

Santa Photo-shoot Attempt

2010-01-19T14:28:00.000-08:00

Santa Came Early

2010-01-18T17:52:00.000-08:00

About a week before Christmas, Santa left a note for Susie in our mail box. He told her that he was going to be passing by Chicago and that he would drop off some of her and Lennon's Christmas presents early so we wouldn't have to find a way of bringing them back home from Utah (where we would be for Christmas)..... SO thoughtful of him! :)

Susie and I left out a plate of cookies and a cup of hot chocolate for Santa, and a plate of carrots for Rudolf.

Santa left a very-nice, fixed-up, looks-like-new (but isn't) bike for Susie!

Mr. Clause worked very hard to make this bike look so great... he cleaned it, replaced the handle bars, put on streamers and a horn, and even added Dora stickers! (Wish I would have taken a "before" picture to show how drastically better it looks!) I just LOVE Mr. Clause... he's so sweet!

Lenny loved his Elmo Airplane toy!

After the presents were open I asked Susie what her favorite gift was... thinking that the answer was obvious: the bike of course! But, Susie told me that her favorite present was a little-people Princess and Carriage toy she received!... that just made me chuckle! She loved her bike, but hasn't been able to use it much with all the snow and all!

Thanks for stopping by Santa!

Gingerbread House

2009-12-21T19:20:00.000-08:00

Susie and her cute friend made gingerbread houses a week or so ago.
It was a wonderful-creative-messy time! Susie's finished gingerbread house... too cute!

Santa Susie is Comin' to Town

2009-12-21T19:11:00.000-08:00

A Flower is Up my Nose

2009-12-19T19:30:00.000-08:00

"A Flower is up my nose, mommy! I can't get it out!" says Susie.

..... well, as you can see... I could get it out! What was she thinking?!

Where did the green beans go?

2009-12-19T19:18:00.000-08:00

I opened a can of green beans, then set them on the counter so I could turn-over the cooking chicken tenders. When I went to grab the can I had opened all I was able to grab was air... where did the green beans go?...... ......Guess someone couldn't wait any longer for dinner to be ready!

Potty-mouth

2009-12-19T18:38:00.000-08:00

Before going potty, Susie told Dave and I an interesting, strange thing. The conversation went as follows:

"I'm scared to turn into poo poo and be flushed down the toilet!"
"You won't turn into poo poo."
"But, the poo poo-fairy will come, and take a wand from the goblin-fairy, and wave it in the air and change me into poo poo! Then she'll flusssssshhhhh me down the toilet!"
"Oh, really? Where did you hear this story?"
"From the movie called, 'Poo poo down the toilet'!"

Sounds like a good movie. Ha Ha!

Swimming in Leaves

2009-11-23T19:21:00.000-08:00

Susie and I made good use of the abundant leaves on our front lawn last week. Using the closest thing we had to a rake (that being a garage broom), we gathered the leaves into a pile. We jumped in, we tossed, we hid, we rolled around, and we swam in our crunchy Fall goodness!

Fly Me to the Moon...

2009-11-23T18:05:00.000-08:00

... and catch me when I return home... then, repeat repeat repeat!

Daddy Daughter Date

2009-11-18T11:11:00.000-08:00

With Dave's life-consuming student schedule, he doesn't get to spend as much time with the kids as he much desires. So, I had the idea of him having alone, special time with Susie (and Lennon when he grows a little older). Dave thought it was a great idea, so he took Susie on a Daddy Daughter Date last month. Susie was anticipating it like it was Christmas! She had such a wonderful time with her Dad (and vice-versa)!
For their date, they went to the movie "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" and got ice cream cones from McDonalds on the way home.
Dave and Susie have already talked excitedly about having another date. A fun new tradition for them to look forward to each month!

Lennon Turns One!

2009-11-15T18:15:00.000-08:00

I just cannot believe that my beautiful boy is now one! The year ZoOmed by! He is the sweetest boy, so cheerful, and brings us so much JOY! We are blessed everyday by our Robbie Lennon! My attempt at making Lennon a birthday cake... not bad, but not great either. (It's suppose to look like a number 1) Lennon knew just what to do when we gave him his cake... dive right in! Susie was a good sister by helping him eat the cake.Lennon playing peak-a-boo with his messy cake hands! Susie enjoyed helping with opening Lennon's presents... but, wasn't too happy that they weren't for her!It has been 1 year full of joy and love... we love you, our beautiful beautiful boy... Robbie Lennon!

HALLOWEEN

2009-11-03T19:11:00.000-08:00

We just LOVE Halloween in our home! It was Susie's first year to go trick-or-treating from house to house... in previous years we had only attended our wards trunk-or-treat, but this year we did both. It was so much fun to take Susie and Lennon to the homes in our neighborhood! We only went two or three blocks, because it started blowing a bitter cold wind... yet, Susie ended up with a load of goodies!

Tinker Bell Susie and Kangaroo Robbie Lennon (Susie wore the Kangaroo costume 2 years ago...it was a little small for Lennon, but we made it work!)

I can not believe how TALL Lennon is... he comes up past Susie's shoulders! Our BIG boy!The first door Susie went trick-or-treating to (ever!).

So excited about her outcome from saying "trick-or-treat!" Lennon barely strapped into our stroller... reminds me a little of the boy ( the one that can't get up because of his puffy snow clothes) on A Christmas Story.
Trick-or-treating success!

Halloween Party

We had a Halloween Party with some fellow student friends. Tricky treats, ghoulish games, and wicked company!

Micheal Scott Dave (notice his mug says, "Worlds Best Boss") and Me dressed-up as random Halloween girl?... by the way, I am wearing a wig... many thought that I chopped my hair off!
What great costumes everyone came up with! The costume contest winner though was Micheal Jackson Adam (SO good!)!

Pumpkin Patch, Pumpkin bread, Pumpkin painting....

2009-11-01T17:24:00.000-08:00

We went to a pumpkin patch with some good friends this October. It was a really cute patch... it had mini rides, bouncy houses, and farm animals for the kids to enjoy. These standing cut-outs were everywhere and Susie had to try out every one!

The kids had fun playing in a couple tee-pee's at the patch.

Susie pulling her friends Dayton and Daphne to the next sight.Pony ride! The highlight for Susie.Our family with the pumpkins.

Can anyone guess who this carved pumpkin is suppose to be?

This October, Susie and I made lots of pumpkin bread and pumpkin cookies together! YUM!

The kids forget they even have a mother when daddy's home!

Susie deep in thought while painting a pumpkin.

Did you say... SLEEP?!

2009-10-25T20:22:00.000-07:00

Sleep is a bad word to Susie... I can't get her to take naps anymore... and she tries her best to stay up as late as she can at night (i.e. "I'm not tired though!", "I need to play with Ariel first.", "But, mommy, I'm SO hungry!"... and on and on, etc.)
The other night she began running around her bed (mattress... on the floor) when I was trying to get her ready for bed. I thought I would just see how long she could last before loosing energy.... well, that was dumb... about 20 minutes later she was still full gusto. Oh, how I wish I could bottle some of that energy up for myself!

September Travels

2009-10-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

Just the kids and I traveled home this past September, Dave had to stay back for school. The visit was just in time for my mom's store (Secret Haven) Fall Open House... which, is always AMAZING! We also enjoyed a day at the Zoo with Dorothy, my mother-in-law, and a Halloween party at my folks house.

Susie's always happy when we get to visit Bestemor!

Susie and Bestemor playing catch.Lennon loved Ode!

Secret Haven's Open-house

My mom asks her employees and customers to dress-up for her open-house. The costumes are always so fun... and it always shocks us that so many people come completely decked-out! Just too much fun. The night before, I drew a sketch for a costume to make and wear to the open-house. Above are my two seamstresses, my mama and her friend Maria (who happened to come over while we were busy sewing... we forced her to help) :)!This is how my costume looked when it was done. (I'm a "Halloween-ie Ballerin-ie")My mom and I. My mom made her costume too... there's a hula-hoop in that skirt of hers!My mom doesn't miss a detail... look at that toothy BLING!My sister-in-law, Christa and I. Christa's face was PURE glitter! (She looked like how S. Meyer explains Edward's skin to appear in the sunlight... but, perhaps more rainbow hued!)

Little America

We took Christa out to breakfast for her birthday. 5 adults, 9 rambunctious kids, and one unhappy waitress at Little America. Crazy good time!

Zoo Day

Dorothy took Susie, Robbie Lennon, and I to the Hogle Zoo one day.

Cute baby elephant.

I loved these lion drinking fountains when I was younger. I couldn't believe they were still in working order.

Susie roaring!

Susie, Dorothy, and Lennon on a train ride.

Susie's sitting on a huge elephant statue that played music, and shot air from it's trunk... I think Susie enjoyed this even more than the animals at the zoo!

Dorothy was so nice to take Susie on the Merry-go-round several times. It was the cutest merry-go-round I've seen.

Susie kept choosing the strangest animals to ride... the above picture shows her on a preying mantis.

Halloween Party

My mom with Lennon.

Can anyone guess who Lennon is?...

... Harry Potter! (This was a quick improvise)

Grace and Susie venturing around.

Tinker Bell Susie.

My parents had a way fun treasure hunt for the kids. These next few pictures are of the kids going from clue to clue.

Malia looking through her found treasure. Each grandchild got a Halloween bucket full of fun toys and goodies.My dad, Lennon, Nick, Ava, and half of Sadie Joy.Cousins: Sophie, Malia, Lennon, Chicken Pearl, Tinker Bell Susie, Grace holding Ava, Builder Aaron Jr., and Car Isaac.

We enjoyed lots of fun with our trip home! My flight back to Chicago, with my two kids, was quite the contrast! First, our flight was delayed, then Susie decided it would be fun to run away from me... so, I left our carry-on luggage unattended (which 'they' remind you not to do), picked Lennon up and started a mad dash to retrieve my wild child. Somehow she got out of site and my heart was racing. A few terminals down, I saw an airline worker with a confused look on her face. She was looking down one of those accordion-like hallways which lead to a plane. I asked, "Did a child go down there?" All she did was shake her head yes, while giving me a look that said, what kind of mother are you? I ran down the bouncy hallway to find Susie in line with the other travelers (boarding a plane headed to Canada)! I found her... but, that was not the end of my traveling troubles... oh no.... Susie decided to become a wet noodle, to pretend that her bones were made of rubber, so I had to drag her (while holding Lennon) back to our luggage and the correct terminal.
Finally when we made it on the right plane, with our bags safely stored away, and into our seats things began to calm down. Until... Lennon threw up all over me, then diarrhea-ed out of his diaper. Of course I didn't have an extra change of clothes for him, so he flew home in his birthday suit (plus diaper). Oh, man!
Well, somehow we made it back to Chicago alive... but, just barely. :)

Susie's First Day of School

2009-10-19T19:12:00.000-07:00

Susie started preschool this past September. She was so excited to get to go to school "like Daddy." We felt like she was more than ready for the school scene... and I was ready for her to go too. :) Here are just some of the pictures I took of Susie before she headed off to her first day of school!She conveniently spilt water on her skirt before my photo shoot of her! Little stinkbug!

This picture (above) shows well her excitement, yet a tinge of an unsure expression on her face... excited, but a little nervous about the unknown. On our drive to her first day of school she said to me, "I'll never see Daddy again." It about broke my heart! She must have been thinking that I was going to drop her off and that was it, goodbye! I explained to her that she would be at school for just a little part of the day, then I would pick her up and bring her back home with our family. She parroted back my reassuring words to make sure she had heard right... and when I confirmed the words, she smiled.

Susie has LOVED school. She is learning and experiencing much. I am so proud of my sweet preschooler!

To: Trish-the-Dish...

2009-10-13T11:20:00.000-07:00

My friend Trish flew out to visit for a few days this past September. It almost feels like she never came at all, because it went by SO fast... we just had SO much fun with her and her sweet Laird!

Lincoln Park Zoo

We drove straight to Lincoln Park Zoo after she landed. This is Laird, Trish, and half of Susie looking at some kangaroos.Checking out the penguins.

Shedd Aquarium, Millennium Park, the City...

The Shedd is always a site to see. The kids loved it... and us adults did too (except the part where Susie ran away from me, and put me into a frantic search for her, argh!). :)
Lennon wanted to join in with the 'big' kids.
Laird and Susie playing with some sea creatures. Poor Laird was so sweet the whole trip, and Susie was often not-so-sweet to him... yet, soon after he left she cried about wanting to play with Laird again!
Eating lunch as the dolphins swam by... pretty cool.
This is a crazy looking sea-horse!
Laird and Sus.
Susie's favorite part about our Shedd trip was getting dressed up as a penguin. Here she is sitting so protectively on a penguin egg...... but, soon she was trying to eat the very egg she had been trying to protect.
Trish, Me, Susie, Lennon, and half of Laird on the left. Love this huge American Gothic statue.

Laird standing next to one of the two water towers in millennium park.Susie splashing around the water display.

Our day in the city was a ton of fun, but crazy! We walked a million miles up and down and around the city, we carried strollers (loaded with children) up flights of stairs (eventually with some help from strangers), and somehow made it to most of our desired destinations! A day to remember!

Lake Michigan

One of my favorite parts of where we live... Lake Michigan. It was a beautiful day to show off the massive lake to a great friend. Susie played in the water even though it was freezing!

Lennon enjoying his sandy Cheerios! Trish and Laird watching the waves.

White Sox

Trish took us to a White Sox game... SO SO NICE! It was the highlight of her visit for me! We had such a great time... and there was even fireworks afterward!
Susie and Laird shared a seat... they did awesome.Yum, Laird.

Watching the fireworks. It was the best firework show I have ever seen... they choreographed it all to music.

Trish and Laird watching the show.

Trish and I after the game.

What a great visit from a great friend... lots of memories made to laugh over (car seats, my lack of directions for leaving the city, mistaking Soldier Field for the White Sox stadium, Shedd wristband....). Thanks for coming, Trish! It was way too much fun!

28 candles for Dave

2009-10-11T20:51:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Dave's 28th birthday at the end of August. So much to celebrate when it comes to Dave... we love him SO much! The candles on the (very sad) home-made cake were melting each other super quick from the intense heat of so many little flames!

Dave's gift: A tent that will fit our whole family now.

The kids loved it!

Lightning Bug... and Alien Insects hatching on our tree!

2009-10-11T20:21:00.000-07:00

Lightning Bug

One of my favorite things about summer in Illinois is the lightning bugs. They make the evenings just magical! They aren't out for very long, just a few weeks or so.

We would go outside almost every night, while they were in full glow, to watch in awe as they danced up and down in the night, and to try and catch one. I never caught one, but every time Dave came out, with Susie and I, he was able to do so. Susie loved holding them and seeing them up close. A fascinating insect indeed.

Alien Insect

Susie and I were happily playing tag around the trunk of our front yard tree, when I spotted this scary site:

A bizarre bug leaving it's former body behind? Or an Alien? You decide.

A strange twist to this bug/alien thing: There were many of these on our tree months ago... and now, right where their previous bodies were left behind are weird wooden protrusions growing out from the tree. What are these thing?!

Never can repay

2009-10-06T22:30:00.000-07:00

I could never repay all the service and goodness my parents have shown me. It's an impossibility. But, I am deeply grateful for all that they have and continue to do. This past August, my parents helped buy a new (to us) car... and not only that, but they drove it from Utah all the way to Illinois for us... with a smile on their faces.Dave and my Dad golfing (in Utah)

Nauvoo

We met my parent's in Nauvoo and was able to experience many of the sites together.

Jumping to Grandpa.

On the drive home from Nauvoo... I found Susie trying to keep herself entertained with an empty tissue box and a box of fish crackers.

Botanical Gardens

During my parents short visit, we went to the beautiful botanical gardens... this place is HUGE and just AMAZING!

A found Lady Bug.

Susie could have fed the ducks all day. These ducks were pretty fearless, eating right from her hand.

Grandpa showing Susie some type of insect.

This was a really cool fountain/water fall. It looked like a sheet of glass.
My mom keeps up with my wild 3 year old better than I.
These water flowers were HUGE... and gorgeous.

"Let the Wildlife be WILD!" So funny.

Tusen Tusen Takk, Mamma Mia and Dade-o! Elska Dag.

Summer Vacation... Final destination: Utah

2009-09-30T16:53:00.000-07:00

After lots of miles traveled by trains, planes, and automobiles (well, the only train was the one at the zoo), we made it back to Utah for our last days of vacation. This picture of Susie just yells, "vacation!" doesn't it?! Cheeto in one hand and having no pressure to dress to impress!Susie just loves her Bestemore.Pearl girl showing off her nicely-made line of rocks...Isaac coming in for a messy kiss.Grandpa and cute Ava.

Camping

My joy of a sister, Sadie with Susie and I.

My family grew up camping, but we had not gone for quite a while. It was so nice to go somewhere so beautiful together in a setting that reminds us of childhood.

My dad and Aaron Jr. showing off the fish that had been caught so-far.Dave, Susie, and my dad.
My brother Steve reeling in a catch.The men setting up camp.
Mmmm, roasted marshmellows! Dave and Grace.Aaron Jr. asleep in Bestemore's arms.Dave with Aaron Jr.Nick and smiley Ava.
Malia mountain biking :)
Ava and Aaron Jr.
Lennon ready to go on our hike.
Isaac was so sweet with Lennon.
Dave, Nick, and Steve ready for the mountain.

Susie, Pearl, and Lennon enjoying the tent. I think Susie liked the tent more than any other aspect of camping.

Our summer traveling was fun and exhausting... it really is amazing how far we traveled and how much we jammed in. Good times!

Summer Vacation... Next stop: a day in Utah, then off to Denver!

2009-09-08T20:39:00.000-07:00

After California, we drove all the way to Utah with Dave's mom, Dorothy. Dorothy and I took turns sitting (smashed) between our kids two car seats... yeah, couldn't wait to arrive to our destination.
After one day in Utah, Dave, the kids, and I took off to Rocky Mountain High, Colorado... to see my returning-missionary cousin, Trgyve, and my other relatives that live in the Denver area. My parents took Lennon on their flight with them (so nice)... while Susie, Dave and I drove (another long drive!) with my brother, Steve and his family (so nice).

Super Slide

I just love this picture, because it shows just how much FUN this home-made, super water slide was! My aunt Marty and Uncle Ole have made it a tradition with their family... and what a fun tradition it is!Upper-left: Cousin Tryg (seeing if wearing a trash bag would up the speed). Upper-right: Leslie and Aaron Jr. holding hands down the slide. Bottom-left: Marty, Autumn, Ole, and Erin all holding Autties quads (such troopers these boys were!). Bottom-right: Sister and brother... my mom and Ole sharing a ride!Our family

Dave and Lennon (brave boy!)

Me (in the air) and my mom trying the speed of the trash bag.

Marty/Susie/Dave, Lennon, Malia, Dad, and Isaac.

Malia and Susie riding down on noodles.

Three Rumpas Sliding

Oh, man!... this video shows my uncle Kenny (who is not in the best of health, and has a pace-maker in his chest) taking his turn down the slide. He surprised us all by diving onto his belly down the slide (wish I had my camera ready for that one)! And then surprised us again by trying the slide once more (accompanied by Sverre and Dave)! So funny.

Lennon sleeping on Bestemore's shoulder. Sweet.

Alpine Slide

One day while in Colorado, we went to a fun place that had an alpine slide. Dave took Susie down, while I took Lennon. I had never been on one before... pretty fun.

On the way up... you can see the course of the slides in the background.

Susie rode a merry-go-round, thanks to Grandpa, after the alpine slide.

Lennon watching Susie on her ride.

Denver was wonderful, beautiful... we did a lot of fun things... but the best part was seeing family, especially to see a cousin, who is dear to my heart, return home with honor.

Summer Vacation... First stop: California.

2009-09-08T18:58:00.000-07:00

We had quite an adventure this summer... lots to see and do! We started with a flight to California to visit both of Dave's brother's and their families. We had an absolute blast while visiting.

Susie and Jakson were beach-buddies. They just played and played as the waves came crashing to their feet. A nice way to warm up after being in the cool ocean water... just a little messy.Dave and his brother Scott rented a long board, hoping to catch a wave... unfortunately, the ocean wasn't cooperating. Still fun though.

Susie and Quink.
It was HOT where we were staying... over 100 everyday. So, we spent a couple days at a nearby pool. We had a major scare one day at the pool. Susie had been on one of the "floaties" (as pictured). I thought Dave was watching her and Dave thought the opposite. No sound was heard... so nothing seemed wrong. But, luckily Dave's mother had a feeling to move the floaty that Susie had been on... and when she did, we saw that Susie was completely underneath the water desperately trying to swim up to the surface. It was the most horrifying thing I have ever seen. My beautiful child fighting for her life. After we pulled her out of the water she gave a few good coughs and started crying. Oh, how grateful I am that Dorothy had that prompting to move the swim toy and more importantly that she followed that prompting. We have no idea how long she was under, because no one heard her fall in and she was hidden by the floaty that was hovering over her. We definitely hugged Susie a little tighter after that experience.

Lot's of Rockband at Scott and Mal's! I about peed my pants laughing at myself and other's trying to sing, drum, or strum! So fun.

We all went mini-golfing one night. I just loved how much Dorothy seemed to enjoy it. If you made the ball into a certain hole at the end of the course, then a flashing light and siren would erupt and a ticket for a free game was given to the skilled mini-golfer. Well, Dave made it and won the ticket... then, I had my turn to show that I could do anything the hub could do, and luckily my mini-golf skills pulled through and I won a ticket as well! Fun, fun.

Cute, prego Kaily taking a swing.

Quincy, Jakson, and Susie.

These three cousin's had a great time together. Way cute, way sweet kiddo's!

Oh Ya! Work it, Scott!
Scott and Mal took us to this AMAZING lake (forgot it's name). It was gorgeous... almost looked fake, it was so beautiful (the pictures do not give it justice)! Dave, Scott, Susie, and I broke out the wet-suits for a swim. We all (excluding Susie) swam to a nearby island, then ventured around... so so fun! Just loved it!

Thanks Rob & Kaily, and Scott & Mal!!!

We had a great time and miss you all!

Zoom went 9 months!

2009-08-23T21:10:00.000-07:00

Lennon is fastly approaching 10 months, which is absolutely crazy to me! Time has just flown by! He is the sweetest, cutest little guy. Such a good babe!

Here are some things our Robbie Lennon is doing now:

Crawling (started around 8 and 1/2 months and is now zipping around like a pro!)

Claps on command... all I have to do is say: "Clap!" and he will usually do as I say.

Grooves to music... he will jiggle his little torso and bob his head side to side when he hears a beat.

Has 8 teeth (by 8 months!)

Loves, loves food... he will come crawling to you as fast as he can when he sees something entering your mouth.

He is BIG... weighing over 24 lbs! Only 6 lbs away from his 3 year old sister!

Often sounds like a monster when he talks and babbles.

Always cries, "Mama" when injured or sad. (Pulls at my heart strings!)

Is super curious about anything and everything... and now tries to investigate by pulling, pushing, poking, etc.

Thinks it's funny to pull off Mom's and Dad's glasses. (Funny the first hundred times)

Feeds himself finger-foods.

Such a smiley, happy boy! A JOY to have around!

Flowers for me?!

2009-08-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

My sweet Susie brings me flowers... well... actually, mostly weeds, sticks, and leaves... almost everyday. It always manages to brighten my day.

Graduating Doctor

2009-08-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Dave's brother Scott graduated from Dental school this past June. We are so proud of him... he has worked so hard and has become an amazing dentist! Way to go, Dr. Scottie!!!

3 Years Beautiful

2009-07-15T21:36:00.000-07:00

Susie is 3 and I just can not believe it! It has been such a Joy-filled three years with our Princess.

1st birthday.... 2nd birthday...

... and now she's 3!!!

Birthday Morning... Presents!!!

It was fun to watch her open up her presents because she was so excited about it. Her favorite gifts included: baseball tee w/ bat and ball, crown (she wore it ALL day long... every where we went), bubble blower, pink wig... but, her very favorite gift was actually a birthday card she received from her Bestemor and Grandpa. It played music and a recorded message from them... Susie just opened and re-opened it up all day... she thought it was so cool.

Party... Cake... and a Pinata!

We had a small party with some of Susie's cute cute neighbor friends.

Daphne, Dayton (Susie's BFF and choice for husband!), Andee, Carter, and Susie.... all lookin' fly in their shades.

All the kids (with help from us mom's) decorated a bag that they were to use to collect the goods from the pinata.

Susie and I made this pinata... it turned out way better than I would have thought, and was super easy... and fun! All the kids loved taking turns to swing at the thing, and it was fun to watch their cute little determined faces.

Since the kids were barely making dents in the pinata, Dave thought he would step-in and help with the swinging. Unfortunately, as he was helping Susie's friend Dayton, he whacked the poor boy in the mouth! Dayton was okay after a hug from his mom and then bravely came back to the game, but Dave felt so bad! So, I stepped in with Susie (with much more effort than I thought would be needed) to conquer the pinata.

Gathering the Goods!

Singing "Happy Birthday" to Susie girl.

Three candles to make a wish!

Happy Birthday Susie girl!

You are AB-SO-BEST-O-LUTE-A-LY amazing! Love you from here to the moon and back again.... times infinity!

"The Best I'd Ever Did See'd"

2009-07-07T18:29:00.000-07:00

Dave is an amazing Dad... truly amazing. Susie and Lennon just adore him. On Father's Day I asked Susie: "Is Daddy a good Dad?" She replied, "Yes!" Then I asked, "Is he the best?" And her response was too sweet: "The best I'd ever did see'd!"
I have never heard her use this expression before nor since... but, it was perfectly stated. We are so lucky to have you in our lives Dave... You are the BEST!

.... Susie trying on her Daddy's clothes.

"Don't talk with your mouth full!"

2009-06-24T18:20:00.001-07:00

Lennon was chewing on my cell phone... and when Susie saw it, she said,

"Lennon, don't TALK with your mouth FULL!"I'm pretty sure that she did not intend such a pun, but it sure made me chuckle.

A Visit that was Practically Perfect in Everyway!

2009-06-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

Dave's mom, Dorothy, came for a visit last month. It was so fun and went by way too fast. Here are some things we were able to do during her visit.
Mary Poppins

Dorothy standing in front of the Sears Tower... forgot it's new name.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Grandma, Susie, and Lion.

We actually went to the Zoo twice while Dorothy was here, because we didn't get to see much the first visit... and it was a fun outing. Susie and I roaring at a bear.

Navy Pier

This is officially my new favorite picture of Dave and I. We thoroughly enjoyed these distorting mirrors at Navy Pier.

Skyline Boat Tour

Dorothy treated us to a skyline boat tour. It was a beautiful day to see the city in such a way.... much fun.

Susie's just a little excited in this picture. Handsome boys.

Grandma and Susie... love that view!

Lake Michigan

Dorothy's first visit to huge Lake Michigan.

Ooooo, love that chubby face!

Susie just LOVES the beach... she gets in the water no matter how freezing it is, and just can not get enough.

Susie enjoyed digging holes in the sand and finding rocks with Grandma.

We had so much fun with you Dorothy! Come back soon!

Half Marathon

2009-06-07T18:57:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, June 6th, I ran my first Half Marathon! It was definitely hard, but such a great experience. It was in South Bend, Indiana... the finish line was in the Notre Dame stadium... yes, the very stadium in which one of the best sports films took place: Rudy-- way cool!
Me just before the race began.... ooh, man I was nervous and excited and wanted to cry all at the same time! I swear that I got a total of about 2 hours of sleep the night before, just because I couldn't get my mind to stop thinking about things to do with the race! Luckily, my sweet cousin, Kim and her hub let me (and my friend Michelle!) sleep at her place (which was closer to the race) the night before... so I only had to wake up at 3:30 am instead of 1:30 am! Thanks again Kim and Bubba!

Michelle and I before the race.

Michelle, Me, Mindy.
I was so glad to be running this race with good friends--it made the race that much better!

Running is definitely not a natural exercise for my body... I feel that my body likes anaerobic and flexibility types of motion much better than aerobic. So, my goal was to run the race within 2.5 hours, which was a challenge for me (I run pretty slow)... but to my astonishment, my goal was accomplished! Yeah!!!

I clocked in at 2:21:56

The first 10 miles felt pretty good, but the remaining 3.1 were treacherous! The best part was entering the stadium... people were cheering and clapping, which gave me a boost to sprint to the finish line (which I did not feel I could have done even 3 miles earlier!).

Posing by the Rudy statue after the race.
Oh, how I was sore during and after the race! This picture shows a blister on my pinkie toe. After the race, I took off my shoes and it honestly looked like another appendage was growing off said toe. It was HUGE and full of liquid-- it also didn't feel so great rubbing against the inside of my shoe during the race... not to mention the other blisters, ouch! But, my blisters weren't the worst of it, my knees felt so stiff and sore... it started to feel like my knee's were grinding bone on bone.

Despite the pain, it was truly a great experience that was not only physically gratifying, but emotionally as well. It was heartwarming to see the support of complete strangers holding signs, setting out sprinklers or radio's on the curb to encourage and cheer on the passing racers. Just minutes into the race, I became overwhelmed and teary eyed by it all. It is definitely something I look forward to doing sometime in the future... not the too near future though!

"Workin' at the Car Wash"

2009-06-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

It's been good enough weather lately, to give ol' rusty a nice scrub-down. Susie enjoyed "helping" too.

Car wash Rain-dance

Last Chance Dance

2009-05-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

I flew to Utah last month not only to see my family, but also to DANCE! My amazing High School dance teacher, Bonnie Pierce, is retiring this year and asked Alumni to come and dance in her final concert. There was no way I was going to miss it!

Me and Bon. I just love this woman! She is one of those people that have influenced my life in such a grand way that I really don't know where I would be without her. I am forever grateful for the teacher, friend, and mentor she has been for me. Here are some of the Alumni who dared to dance again... even with our "mommy" bodies!

My friend Trish and I, practicing our side jete's before one of the performances. (I really should be pointing my toes a lot better than that!)

Since I live a few states over from Utah, I missed almost every practice and rehearsal. But, luckily, my friend, Trisha helped me learn my parts... Thanks Trish!

Me, Em's, and Trish. Love these girls to bits!

Trish, Me, and Jami. Such a pleasure to dance with them again!

My sister-in-law, Leslie, took these pictures of one of the performances. Thanks, Les!

This picture shows some of the girls that I danced with back in the day.

Left to Right: Suzanne (one of my drill advisor's-- amazing dancer and choreographer!), Jessica, Me, Nicole, Megan (she recently had triplets that are just adorable!), Trish-the-Dish, Steph (Pregnant with her first, yay!), and Jami.I hope this picture doesn't give you nightmares (they actually looked much worse in real life). I got so many HUGE blisters on my feet, from dancing in my bare feet. My feet used to have thick, wonderful (yet very ugly to most) callused soles that I could pirouette on with ease. But, since I hadn't danced for a while, that wasn't the case.

Unfortunately, all of my blisters decided to open-up the night of our first performance... oh, man, it even hurt to walk, let alone turn and leap! But, with lots of medical tape and very deep breaths, I was able to dance my heart out.

April visits in April

2009-05-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

The kids and I were able to visit family and friends in Utah last month (Dave stayed home due to school, tests, hours of studying, and other fun stuff--poor guy!). We were there for 2 weeks, but it went by so fast!

Marathon

My super-fit sister (in-law), Christa, ran the SLC marathon the first weekend we were in Utah. Seeing her cross the finish-line was awesome... I even got teary-eyed....

I was just so proud of her!

Christa, my brother Steve, and their adorable Isaac.

My cousin, Kirsten, was also running the SLC marathon-- so, we were able to see her finish as well. She didn't even look winded or anything afterward (when I run just a couple of miles my face turns cherry-red and I sweat like crazy!).

Tulip Festival

All the girls on my side of the family, the cousins, my mom, and Dave's mom Dorothy went to the Beautiful Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point. We only saw a very limited portion of the flowers, due to trying to control our wonderfully rambunctious kids. It was very beautiful and great to be outside!

Oh, the JOY of rolling down a grassy hill! Susie and Grandma Dorothy watching the geese and ducks in the lake.

My sweet sister, Sadie Joy, and her four beautiful little women.

Cousins: Malia, Isaac, Grace, Susie, Lennon (in stroller), Pearl, and Sophie.

Sheila (Shay-la)
One of the highlights of the trip was seeing my brother Aaron's horse, Sheila. She is such a gorgeous horse... thanks again, Leslie, for taking us to see her! The kids had a great time with feeding her carrots and apples.

My brother never knew this, but Sheila most likely was a race horse at one time. She has tatooed numbers in her mouth that were discovered more recently. I know that my brother would have bragged about this if he would have known. Pretty cool.My dad and Lennon (Lennon just loved and bonded with his Grandpa so easily).

Grace, Susie, Pearl, Fe, and Aaron Jr. (in the air of course).

My mom, Aaron Jr., and Leslie.

What are you kicking Gracie???

Sister with Lennon boy.

Susie feeding Sheila some hay.

Sweet Pearl Girl.

I love this picture of Sheila and Les.

Home

My mom, so lovingly, took Lennon when he woke up most mornings... so I could get a couple more hours of sleep. Oh, how I miss that!

Pearl, Grace, Susie, Fe Fe showing pride for their ice-cream cones! Isaac was so sweet with Lennon. Malia, Lennon, Isaac.

Ava Starr-- so angelic, so cuddily.

Grandma Dorothy and Lennon.

We had a nice picnic at a nearby park. It was a beautiful day and we had a great time.

Susie HAD to have a bath in my parents sink everyday... she just loved it!

We went to Temple Square-- I had forgotten how beautiful it is there in the Spring!
(The reason why all these beautiful cousins are smiling so well is because, my mom was trying to tap-dance to make them smile for the picture... too funny)

Pearl by the reflection pool.

Grace and Susie.

Susie, Sadie, my Dad, Pearl, Fe, Grace, and my Mom.

My parents and I.

It was a wonderful trip for me and the kids. Always great to see the fam. Thanks for a wonderful time... we miss you already.

Easter

2009-04-13T19:34:00.000-07:00

Our Easter festivities started last Thursday, with a fun egg hunt with our ward playgroup.

"Here we go!"

Once Susie realized that there was candy inside of the plastic eggs, she was only interested in opening them and not in finding them. Egg Decorating

I have always enjoyed coloring eggs... but, it was especially fun and special to do it with Susie this year, because she was excited about it too!Thumb's up--Susie making sure her thumb is up.

Easter Sunday

Egg hunt in the front yard.

Susie, ever so gracefully, pointing to a found egg.

Opening the goods.

Too many goods in mouth at once.

Susie tried to eat a chocolate egg and a handful of jelly beans at the same time, after a couple attempts to chew, she spit the whole lot out.

Later, the Zumsteg's (an amazing couple in our ward) had us over for a wonderful Easter feast. We had a great Easter and hope you did as well!

Lighthouse

2009-04-13T19:19:00.000-07:00

During Dave's lunch break the other day, we went out to Waukegan Harbor for a stroll in the sun. It was a beautiful day.

We walked out to a small lighthouse in the harbor. Susie jumped down from this ledge about fifty times, and luckily her Daddy was always there and willing to catch her.

Lennon was such a good sport for us. Although the sun was out, it was super windy... yet this little guy was just so content to hang out in the stroller with a blanket covering his view.
Dave with Susie on his sholders---running full speed.

If you look close at this goose you will notice it is standing on one leg. Dave and I thought it was so strange, but Susie approached it and it's other leg came down (from being tucked up against it's body). We thought it was a good gimmick for the bird to get more bread crumbs tossed at it, as people would feel bad for the one-footed bird.

Return of the Jedi

2009-04-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

We started the first Star Wars movie a few months ago, and finished watching the last one recently. It was awesome.... Susie liked some of it too (especially Darth Vader-- at least the way he breathed).

My Best Compliment Ever

2009-04-05T06:58:00.000-07:00

My friend did a "Best Compliment" contest on her blog... and I'm sure that I would have won if I would have posted this amazing compliment that I received by, none other than, Donny Osmond himself! To set the scene a little:
I was a freshman in High School, in (puppy) love with Donny Osmond (Tom Cruise just didn't do it for me), found out that he was doing a book signing in SLC. My sister, my best friend Sam, and I went to go meet my handsome crush. We waited in line for hours; I had way too many hormones racing through me and was as giddy as they come. When it was my turn to meet Donny face to face, I am embarrassed to say that I was almost hyperventilating with excitement (note how big my young smile is in picture above); knowing how dorky I was I said, "Sorry, Donny, I am such a Dork!" and he replied (or complimented), "You are not a Dork!"
Wooooweeeee!!! He might as well have kissed me right there!

Once there was a SNOWMAN, SNOwman, snowman...

2009-03-31T15:48:00.000-07:00

The kids and I (mostly I) built a snowman yesterday. Lennon was very angry to be outside in the cold, but I let him tough it out (it wasn't that cold... really). And, Susie wanted to eat the snowman more than build it. It was fun anyhow.

The snowman has already begun to melt (by rain, not sun).

Celebrating Aaron

2009-03-29T21:40:00.000-07:00

Today would have been my brother's 32nd birthday.

Happy birthday, Aaron.

We love and miss you

very much.

Very much.

Potter and SHE-that-must-not-be-named

2009-03-19T08:38:00.000-07:00

If this lightning bolt-like scar makes Lennon Harry Potter.... then, that would make Susie He-that-must-not-be-named (yes, even Lord Voldemort). Except, Susie didn't use her wizarding powers to inflict Lennon, her choice of weaponry was a toy.

Valentine 2 0 0 9

2009-02-17T22:03:00.000-08:00

I look forward every year for my home-made, hand-drawn Valentine card from Dave. They are not the most romantic cards that you could imagine... Pirates, Napoleon Dynamite, and this year: Osama Bin Laden are not the most tender of images, albeit...they sure have made me smile--inside and out. Along with the lovely card, Dave bought me beautiful flowers and made my favorite meal: salmon, potatoes, peas, and carrots... YUM! (He even made the table and got the fancy goblets out!)

For dessert: roasted marshmellows!

Five Years Fly...

2009-02-14T21:26:00.000-08:00

Dave and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary recently. It is truly amazing how those years have flown by. With each year, our love has grown deeper.

Then...

Some facts, events, or experiences we've had together these past 5 years:

Traveled to places such as: Florida, California, Brazil, New York, Pennsilvania, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and many Utah sites (our favorite being Lake Powell).
Dave graduated with his B.A. in Medical Biology. I graduated with a B.A. in Dance Performance and a Minor in Nutrition.
I taught modern and social dance our first 3 and 1/2 years of marriage... I also worked at my mother's amazing store, Secret Haven (free advertisement for ya, mom!).
Dave worked with his Uncles constuction company, until I (playfully) tackled him in the snow and injured him, leaving him unable to do such work.
Dave worked as a Teller for a Wells Fargo Bank in SLC (after the snow incident).
We moved to Illinois, almost two years ago, for Dave to attend Medical school. When done (2 years left, plus 3 years of residency) he'll be a podiatrist.
We had our first child, beautiful Susie, in 2006.
Our second child (also beautiful!), Lennon, joined us this past November.
Along with great additions, we have had some great losses. We lost my dear brother, Aaron, over a year ago. Dave's sweet father, Robert, also past last April. We have also lost my Grandmother Tora and Dave's Grandfather Travest.
We have learned that life happens fast...

Now...

Truly, truly... Forever, not a day less will do.

Drink away those brain-cramps

2009-02-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

You know your husband has had a hectic day at Podiatry school if you find him guzzling down a whole bottle of martinelli's.

Lennon's Blessing

2009-02-11T14:11:00.000-08:00

While in Utah, Dave gave Lennon a baby blessing. It was a beautiful blessing for a beautiful boy. My brother Steve and his wife Christa (so kindly and with very little notice) let us use their home for this family event. Dressed in White To help bless: Dave's brother Scott, Uncle Jeff, Grandpa John, Uncle Scott, Dave and Lennon, my Dad Steve, and my brother Stevie.

Grandmothers, mother, and child.

We love this little guy... he is a great blessing himself!

Watching Out for Brother by Reasoning with a Lion

2009-02-08T19:22:00.000-08:00

When Susie saw her little brother under a Lion's open mouth, she had no fear to make sure of his safety.

"GASP"

"Lion, Don't you eat Lennon..... Okay?"

(Bean Museum in Provo, Utah-- December 2008)

You make me sick!

2009-01-26T10:53:00.000-08:00

We have all been sick for way too long. Luckily, I haven't been too ill (I can still somewhat hold down the fort), but Dave has had some nasty bug since before Christmas! Susie was sick well before Christmas too, then she experienced one week of health. But, faster than I could exhale a sigh of relief she caught something new-- the flu. She threw-up for her first time ever last week.... red fruit punch all over the couch! Poor girl (and poor parents... we had to do the clean up)!

Well, I am regretting the contents of this video already. For some reason I wanted to teach Susie about her throw-up experience. That the vomit came from her stomach (or "tummy") and that its contents were made up of things she digested (like the said fruit punch). I just hope that she forgets this lesson before her next play-date or Sunday's nursery... before she feels inclined to share her new knowledge with her friends.

Christmas Vacation.... April's side

2009-01-14T13:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas night was spent enjoying April's side of the family.
Grandpa and his adoring granddaughters.
My parents prepared a very special letter about each of us and even the grandchildren. They wrote about funny things we had done and/or special qualities we personally posses. The letters were read aloud before each individual opened one of their presents. It was very sweet... my favorite part of the night. (My mom, in the right corner, is holding up one of the letters)

The nativity

Lennon as Baby Jesus again.... sleep in heavenly peace.

Fe loving her mama-- perhaps, a little much!These stripped-pj's pictures were actually taken New Year's Eve. Unfortunetly, Aaron Jr. was sick... so he is missing in the picture (hopefully we'll be able to photo-shop him in). Left to right: Pearl, Isaac, Malia, Susie, Fe, Lennon, and Grace.Look at Susie and Fe (upper right)-- he, he.
Sweet Malia just loved holding her new cousin, Lennon... even if he was screaming at the top of his lungs!

Malia jumping from ottoman to bean-bag... just look at those nicely pointed toes!!

Susie trying to follow suite.... not-so-nicely pointed toes!

Christmas Vacation.... Dave's side

2009-01-14T12:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was spent with Dave's family. Yummy food, the nativity story, and good cheer were had.

Cute Jane, Dave's cousin, loving Lennon.

Mal and Scott (and baby in belly--yes, her tiny belly!)
Grandpa John with Dave and Great-Grandson Robbie Lennon.
The Nativity reinacted.
Lennon playing the part of baby Jesus.
Corbin, playing the best Camel I've ever seen!

Notice the toilet paper tail!
Aunt Sue--what a Star! And, Uncle Scott-- the narrator.
Jonathon--wishing it would never end! :)
Blake and Jak-man. Jakson sang a wonderful solo-- good job Jak!

Dorothy at the piano and cute Quincy "helping" her out... way to hit those high notes Quink!

Rob broke into song and dance to "Feliz Navidad"... unfortunetly, I didn't get my video-camera out fast enough!
Grandma Dorothy and Susie Christmas Day.

Robbie Lennon sleeping by the tree.

Kaily, Quink, Jak

The Whiting boys showing off their silky pj's.