Simple Things

I'd like to think that I am a positive person. Sometimes things are great and sometimes things are hard. Overall, I feel I live a blessed life. However, that doesn't mean that I don't get discouraged and frustrated. It doesn't take much to make me happy though. In fact, I'm coming to realize that it is NOT the big things that bring happiness, but instead it is the very small and simple things. Here are a few simple things that enrich my life.

1. Beautiful flowers that my hubby gave me. Seeing the fresh cut flowers sitting on the table is like inviting Spring over for dinner. Yes, these are the actual flowers. Well done Sweetie!

2. Finally getting a new swimsuit. While it made me feel like I need to lose a good 10 pounds, it also made me feel excited for the summer and all that it will bring for our family. For your sake I will not post pictures!

3. Oxy Clean. I would have had to throw out several of Hannah's outfits were it not for Oxy Clean. I love the stuff.

4. When Tyler listens the FIRST time I ask. It seems to happen so rarely, that when it does, it feels me with pure joy.

5. The Biggest Loser. I get emotional watching these people change their lives for the better. It also helps me realize I am blessed to have a body that is healthy and lets me do the things I want to do. (Don't tell Bob or Jillian I'm usually eating ice cream while I watch the show!)

6. Spring thunderstorms. Even though the rain keeps us housebound, I just love the majesty and power of the thunderstorms. I don't know why, but the thunder and lightning comfort me.

7. Casseroles. I used to hate leftovers as a kid. There seemed to be very few things I would want to eat a second time. As a mother, I love baking a big pan of something that will suffice for dinner a second time. Do the work once and get two meals worth of food. Brilliant!

8. Hearing my crazy, loud, energetic boy talk in his sleep. I giggle like a little girl hearing some of the funny things he says in the middle of the night. All is right with the world when I watch Tyler or Hannah sleep. It seems to re-prioritize my life when I see their innocent bodies sleeping peacefully.

There are many more little things that make my life easier and happier that I could list. I'll save those for another day. I hope you have a simply wonderful day!

Seventh Heaven

Hannah is seven months old today. It feels like she has been a part of our family forever. She is a wonderful little baby, always smiling. Thank goodness she is a good baby, because Tyler is keeping me very occupied these days. He's entered a new phase I call "I'll be as loud as I can." Not my favorite phase. I keep asking myself, 'what did I do before I had two kids?' or 'why didn't I get more done when Tyler was a baby?' Busy, busy.

The last month has been a big one for Hannah. First, she got her first two bottom teeth. She was a little fussy, but nothing horrible, so let's hope that trend continues with the rest of her teeth. The top left and bottom middle pictures show of her teeth nicely. Next, Hannah is rolling and twisting and turning to get wherever she wants. You put her down in a room and a few minutes later, she on the other side stuck under something. Time to baby proof the house again. And lastly, this month Hannah as begun being able to sit unsupported. Her longest is about 30 seconds, then it is TIMBER! It is just as exciting the to see her firsts as it was with Tyler. It is a privilege to watch them learn new things. Happy seven months Hannah Beth! I love you.

Family Pictures 2010

Just before we left for Disneyland, we had our family pictures taken. I have to give the story behind the situation. The singles ward that Steve serves in had a silent service auction a month or so ago to raise money for the Church Humanitarian fund. I won two personalized Pilates sessions from an instructor in the ward and we gave a gourmet meal for four. It was a great night for a great cause.

Anyway, I happened to see that one of the girls was offering a one hour photo session. Of course I was going to bid on it. I ended up getting the session for $7! That is an amazing deal. Jessica, the photographer, is awesome. She leaves on her mission on Wednesday, yet she took the time to take some wonderful family pictures. It wasn't easy trying to occupy Tyler and Hannah, but I think the result was worth it. Thank you again Jess!

Highlights from the Happiest Place on Earth

I've been to Disneyland many times. This was by far the best time ever! Here are my favorite things about this trip:

1. Hearing Tyler exclaim "Goofy, I'm glad to meet ya!" and embracing the larger than life character. Tyler was able to meet several Disney characters. I was surprised by how many we were able to meet. He met Mickey last and by then was like "yeah, yeah, another character." Oh, well!

2. Time with family. The company was wonderful. Tyler and Hayden were on cloud 9 being together and taking in all the sights and sounds. Grandma was kind enough to watch the kids one night so Jay, Kristin, Steve and I were able to go to the park and act like big kids until the wee hours of the morning. I love you guys!

3. Short lines and warm weather. This was the least crowded I have ever seen Disneyland. Between the Fast Passes ans Stroller Passes, we pretty much walked on to every ride. Note to self: always go to Disneyland during the week at the end of April.

4. Creating memories as a family. This was just what we needed. Steve is out of school for the summer and starts work tomorrow. Disneyland was perfect for enjoying our break together. Disneyland really tries hard to create a magical place full of detail. Being able to watch Tyler get excited about the wonder of It's A Small World and other rides was seriously a privilege.

5. Swimming at the hotel pool. Tyler shrieked with delight. Thank you Grandma for the life jacket! And sorry Steve that you got sunburned.


After two days at Disneyland, a day trip to Newport Beach and more ice cream than I care to admit, it is back to reality, laundry and cleaning. But reality will be easier to bear since I have such great memories to smile about!