the beattys run rampant

Home....

2011-11-26T12:13:00.001-08:00

is where the heart is xoxo

This is our first year having our very own Thanksgiving at home...alone.

I'll be honest, I thought I was going to hate it and I was on the border of planning a last-minute trip to bask in the warm desert sun and forget about homesickness for the long weekend. But things were crazy busy and at the last moment instead I woke up at home and was GLAD, even EXCITED!!

I have been in some kind of funk for the last month, I'm sure you can tell from my lack of blogging. I got home from my trip and there has not been just one minute to sit, catch up, and breathe. As soon as I got off the plane I feel as though someone pushed the FF button on me (fast-forward) and I have been totally struggling. Little did I know the very thing I needed was to just stay home.

It has been the greatest breath of fresh air and we are now going in slow-motion.

Our few

and only decorations

The kids happy to be kids and keeping an ever-watchful eye on me in the kitchen, curious of the growing mess I was making.

They ended up with some elaborate cushion forts.

fueled by the veggie tray--guess they don't like peppers

my little sweet helper setting the table

Daddy harvesting some herbs

Our full warm delightful table, filled with steamed green beans, gravy, rolls, roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, garden carrots, red potatoes, sweet potatoes and herbs, Tofurkey, a loaded green salad with candied nuts, craisins, feta, cucumber, tomatoes. Mashed potatoes and stuffing. Success, in my eyes. For someone who has had way too much bad luck in the kitchen I was feeling like a PRO! I did forget the fruit salad though, but no one noticed.

Slicing up the Tofurkey

We all sat and enjoyed every bite and moment sharing our Thankfulness. I glowed hearing the kids' long, neverending lists of what they are thankful for. But in the end, dad was left clearing and stuffing his face from the kids plates.

We took a break and played, went to a great kids movie (Hugo), and we did loads of puzzles while the pie baked. Speaking of ... it was my first time making pie. We made apple and boy was it mouthwatering.

I had forgotten that a sweet life is just taking it easy at home. I'm still beaming and still at home enjoying every slow-motion moment. We have been playing games and eating cake into the wee hours of the morning. And if I once again forget to slow down and be thankful, I just so happened to have taken a video of my kids long telling tales of thankfulness. xoxoxo

I hope you all had a warm, happy day filled with what really matters, and it's not in the presentation or the fruit salad, but making time to sit with the ones you love.

p.s. it's good to be back

Oh me, Oh my

2011-10-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

little Indiana Jones

This time of year is my absolute favorite. I love how it is just packed full of excitement, pure and simple ones. The fall colors, leaf piles, dressing up, baking goodies, roasting pumpkin seeds, carving pumpkins, the endless parties, and squeezing in as much outdoor time before it turns bitterly cold. It is full to the brim with real quality family time.

I'm leaving today. And can't help be sad for all I'm going to miss. Yeah, call me spoiled. Who wouldn't want to celebrate turning 30 with their honey in paradise? Me, I guess. My kids love parties. Who else would I want to celebrate with? I'm going to miss dressing my kids up and seeing their faces glow when they look in the mirror, watching their faces turn sour as they reach their little hands into their pumpkins. The light in their eyes when they receive their first full candy bar while trick-or-treating. I LOVE running door to door with them. It is all so priceless.

Who is going to take their pictures in the school Halloween Parade?

That is just one little thing that is haunting me.

I didn't start this post to cry and whine but to be glad for all I have already been able to do with them, continuing fall traditions and making new ones. xoxo

Snuggled up for the full moon lift ride at Sundance

decorating sugar cookies

making loads of apple chips with Jarom

finding a sleeping zombie

still harvesting a hearty bounty

Being adopted by a new little furry friend. Our very own Halloween cat, Link!

who can always be found cuddling

fall field trips

Getting lost in a corn maze

A new tradition. Hiking Donut Falls among the beautiful aspens.

It was colder in canyon than we thought. The boys were lucky enough to find little wraps and scarves in the car to keep them warm.

Brandon scooting his way up to the falls

Isn't she lovely?

Can't hike Donut Falls without actually eating a doughnut - just you try.

Our Nanie came to visit!!!!! It was her tradition to come visit us every fall but she missed the last two, we are so glad to have her back, and her new husband Jack. It was like CHRISTMAS!!!!

Spidey led the way

Everyone else gladly followed

Finished with Halloween bedtime stories xoxoxo

How blessed am I?

I cannot count all the ways.

Rachel, Ade, and Dolly -

Thank you

For your love, time, and energy spent loving my kids while I'm gone,

it REALLY means the WORLD to me.

Coromandel

2011-10-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

Day 11: Coromandel

Our last day was an exciting one for me, because in reading my travel books there were three things that jumped out at me immediately - the first was the doing the Tongariro Crossing, which we were able to do on Thanksgiving Day, and then the other two were saved for last.

Good thing we crashed the night before, because we needed to get up bright and early to make it to Hot Water Beach while the tide was still low.

walking down the beach to find the hot spots

GOLD

here we are sitting in our very own little hot sandy bird bath

A better picture of it. As you can see we didn't need to dig too far. Even this much water was hard to bear because it was boiling hot. From this very spot I watched the cutest old man in a Speedo have to get into the ocean to cool down, and then he hit a hot spot in the ocean and had to run back to the beach. It is kind of a dangerous beach.

Matty relaxing. We took a couple videos of the water boiling.

bliss

Last on my to do list was a hike to Cathedral Cove. You might recognize it from one of the Narnia movies. It is the one where they watch a train rush by, and then they see glimpses of the most gorgeous beach EVER. And then magically they appear there.

The trail goes along the cliffs and is oh-so-scenic.

When we started this trail it was still early in the morning. It is a popular one and we didn't see anyone the whole time. When we got there, there were two other couples already lying out on the beach. But other than that, everyone else was coming in as we were leaving.

A little disappointing to get down there and see it roped off. We walked back and forth a few times and then just said, what the heck, we're going through.

on the other side!!

and all alone xoxo

And then the mad rush along the rest of the Coromandel highways to make it to Auckland in time to return our cute little rental car and hit the plane headed home. New Zealand, we will see you again soon.
--- ---

-- more NZ 2010 --
Pre-trip preparation
Day 1: Auckland
Day 2: Orewa to Paihia
Day 3: Paihia to Kaitaia
Day 4: Ninety Mile Beach to Rawene
Day 5: Rawene to Hamilton
Day 6: Hamilton to National Park
Day 7: Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Day 8: Taupo to Rotorua
Day 9: Rotorua
Day 10: Thames to Hahei
Day 11: Coromandel

Last days

2011-10-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

Day 10: Thames to Hahei

last days

and moments were spent on trails along the beach and swimming in Tairua

making a run for it

never tiring of these endless empty beaches

We read that if you climb to the little peaker on top of Mt. Paku that you will visit again in the next 7 years. We wanted to put it to the test. It only took 11 months for it to come true. xoxo

The beach we just swam at was already calling our names again

The trail took you through charming backyards - they all had their own private dreamy paths down to the beach. The views got better with each step.

Beautiful blue ocean on all sides

Loving those mountains way in the background, little Pauanui in the foreground. This place has got it all.

We drove on to our last bed of the trip, and on the way I finally got a picture of my favorite "panda bear cows." We decided to go all out on our last night and throw our budget to the wind. We booked a nice room right ON the BEACH, in Hahei!!

collected our last gifts for the kids in the sunset, up on Cooks Beach

We went to a tiny little ritzy place for dinner - it is a tiny beach town so there was nothing else open. We were just glad we were going to get dinner.

And made sure to drink one last L&P - mmm

We had romantic dreams of walking the beach at night, but once we got back to our deluxe room we only had enough energy to take showers, and for some crazy lame reason we spent our last night all cozied up watching tv, never taking advantage of our beach. The things we regret later in life - not really though. We were so darn tired.
--- ---

-- more NZ 2010 --
Pre-trip preparation
Day 1: Auckland
Day 2: Orewa to Paihia
Day 3: Paihia to Kaitaia
Day 4: Ninety Mile Beach to Rawene
Day 5: Rawene to Hamilton
Day 6: Hamilton to National Park
Day 7: Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Day 8: Taupo to Rotorua
Day 9: Rotorua
Day 10: Thames to Hahei
Day 11: Coromandel

Snow to Sun

2011-10-16T17:47:00.000-07:00

Red Rock Relay

Matt's work signed up to have a team compete in the race, the very race Matt and I have wanted to do ever since it started just a few years before. The race takes you from the lovely lushness of the mountaintops at Brian Head, then down into the redrock country and through St. George, and ending at the ever beautiful Zion.

Here we are at the start!! Well, we are part of van 2 (the "sun" van) and van 1 (the "snow" van) has already started!! At this moment we are feeling pretty good. It didn't take long to realize that van 2 had 99% of all of the hard runs. They go downhill, we go uphill.

rendezvousing with the other half of our team at our first exchange

Matt had the first leg in our van. Those mighty clouds came rushing in and out, with him.

He ran uphill, sucking in wind at the high elevation (9000 feet), pummeled by balls of hail, and still was smiling. Matt was out-of-this-world amazing. He totally thrived and had the hardest runs by FAR. He is insane.

Little ol me came right after Matt. Enjoying the freshly cleansed earth.

ever so happy to remove the slap bracelet relay "baton", and slap it on Crystal

and true to the name - there was snow!!

Jared found the perfect remedy for his sore feet - Ashdown Creek

Lillian, she is special, and just never could get that slap bracelet to SLAP!! Mike was our last runner, who also brought our theme music, which carried us to the very end, and whether we liked it or not, it was ours, it was us, guiding and leading, never leaving like a true friend:

Cause baby you're a FIREWORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

and that was the only part of the song we knew. And we sang it to each other NON-STOP!!

After our first runs we were supposed to get some shuteye in the tiny town of Newcastle. But it was only 8:00 pm, and you know that you have to get up at midnight to start running, plus you are trying to sleep in the middle of a race. The whole time you just hear people yelling and clapping, screaming and singing. The sleep wasn't happening, well, at least for a few of us.

Mike helping Matt gear up for the first night run.

Here I am pretty darn stoked to start my second run. This was my easy run - no uphill, just short and flat which meant I could get it done fast. The name of this leg was called Cap'n Kirk (Enterprise was the nearby town), hence my tricky hand pose.

YES!! I'm done. Feeling like a million bucks. Amazed I only have one run left. It was all seeming a little too easy....

Bed #2 for the early morning rest at the awesome Washington rec center. I was so happy, and finally feeling at ease and it was quiet and I was tired enough to think I was going to get some sleep before my last run. And I did, all blessed 30 minutes of it. I'm just going to let it all out here, because I sure did there. I was DEAD asleep until that pang in my gut tells me to hurry to the restroom. I'll feel better, I thought. Back to bed, which now seems really hard, and oh, there's that pang again, and again, and again and again. That was it. I was feeling like a goner, but for some reason felt like I was going to still do well on my last leg knowing it was my last leg.

Me and the ladies of van 2. Most teams are very creative, silly, and competitive. But one of the really great things of being in van 2 was being with all the other van 2s. A lot of them had really funny things written on their van about how being in van 2 totally sucks, or you must have lost a bet, to just being real hardcore. We all felt the bond between the van 2s.

trying to muster up the inner peace, and really enjoy my last run

Matt blasted through once again in the heat and like always, all uphill, he is a machine. The things I'm still learning about this guy. It just blows my mind!!

Dead, slowly coming back to life. I had a picture of my face right after that last run but I really did look dead in it. So I'm doing you a fav and posting this one instead. I started off at what seemed like a good steady pace. But by mile two I knew, I just knew, I was going to faint soon. I was praying and hoping my van was waiting for me right around the corner or at the top of the hill ...... and so on. I needed water, I had nothing to sweat out and I needed some substance. I, like a fool, had not had one thing to eat or drink that morning because I was afraid my belly was not going to hold it. And I had heard the horror stories of people going in their pants while running. I made a promise to myself that that was not in my future, at least not today, on my last victory run. And then, what seemed out of nowhere - another car parked on the side of the road waiting to help their runner offered ME!! an ice cold water bottle. I couldn't believe it. I think tears would have come to my eyes but since I had no water in me they just sweetly stung. And right after that my van came and sprayed me down with pure lovely mist and had a sports drink for me. It all saved my life and my run.

Another one done!! Victory!!

our cozy home

This is what we look like after no sleep and lots of running - it was joy!!

After the miracle of the spray bottle and cold drinks bringing me back to life, I swore I would not let another runner suffer. And I became the mister and Mike my partner was always ready to hand you a new cold one. Here's Mike and I waiting to bless Jared with our life-saving gifts.

we will chase you down

Almost everyone's longest run was today. So we would drive a little up the road and wait. How would you wait after sitting in a car for hours on end?

Proof of the mister is all caught on the pictures baby - before ...

... and after!! You're looking at a new man!

Works wonder on women too. She likes to act like she didn't like it but she loved it!!

Mike running towards the finish line after miles and miles. The whole team was supposed to run in with him.

But we later found out that van 1 went home!! Those twerps!! Oh well, we were the "hardcore" ones.

Proudly showing off our hard-earned stripes. It was always the best feeling to finish your leg and earn a stripe. We really made sure to make them nice, "thick and sturdy," which is our one of our many inside jokes - sorry, I couldn't help myself. The other leg has each of our "kills," which is a notch for every person you passed during your runs. We found great pleasure in every kill.

In the end we wanted some good food, but settled just for food, and sleep. But before we got either of those, we knew we would do it all again.

smells like ROTORUA

2011-10-09T21:28:00.000-07:00

Day 9: Rotorua

Ahhhhhhhh

just ten more days

and I'll be sipping this

with him

morning with my matty and chai is perfection

we started one of our last days in NZ at Hells Gate, a geothermal area and of course, a natural spa

This place of wonder is smelled before seen.

And to this day we still smell some lingering Rotorua in a few items we wore there (particularly our togs).

lots of steaming, popping mud pots

this was a happy little steaming pile

The trail ended at a little hut where you were taught to carve, and then make your own souvenir. I chose to carve the Maori symbol for compassion and Matt did loyalty -- not as easy as it seems.

back in the day they had the natural spa right at the falls,

but today - to help preserve the natural wonder - they still use the water and mineral-rich mud, but they have been transported to baths, pools, and private spas

and we weren't leaving without trying it all

things got dirty pretty fast

but, it was all ours for the taking

glorious silky mud

awesome until you HAVE to take a cold shower before moving on to the next segment

and robes for inbetween

soaking in the sulphurous Wai Ora spa

feeling nothing but love

our next adventure:

following a little trail along Kerosene Creek

to the toastiest waterfall

he jumped in, and I had to inch my way slowly in

sooooo insanely melt-your-body hot

so after Matt's dunk, a group of soaking old ladies told us of an unseen little critter that loves to climb up your nose, and how you should NEVER put your head under the water

veggie burger madness (in NZ known as a "vege burger")

our last stop for the day

rare ancient Maori rock art, off the shores of Lake Tarawera

after a long busy day and late night drive

nothing welcomes sleep like dolphins

--- ---

-- more NZ 2010 --
Pre-trip preparation
Day 1: Auckland
Day 2: Orewa to Paihia
Day 3: Paihia to Kaitaia
Day 4: Ninety Mile Beach to Rawene
Day 5: Rawene to Hamilton
Day 6: Hamilton to National Park
Day 7: Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Day 8: Taupo to Rotorua
Day 9: Rotorua
Day 10: Thames to Hahei
Day 11: Coromandel

Piece of Heaven

2011-10-08T22:52:00.000-07:00

Most of my large, ever-growing family came into town for a family reunion. But that lasted only a day, and then I had quite the little load of guests, the majority of them were 3 and under. Tired of being in cars, cooped up and crowded in homes and hotels, I had the perfect remedy for all ages. The Grotto trail!

The sky was perfectly blue and all the leaves glowed.

Everywhere you looked called for a photo op.

Bonny and her cutie pie twins, Willow and Autumn.

the trail is ever so inviting

And easy, which makes some very happy mamas, who don't have to worry about having tired, whiny kids.

And who would complain in this wonderland?

cozy leaf-lit nooks

new furry friends at every step

lots and lots of fun little bridges for little feet

sharing the magic of fall

good old-fashioned banter about trees, soil, and sunlight

Did I mention all the little bridges?

I was the good shepherd, herding up the rear. The parents actually had a hard time keeping up with the kids, which is the best when hiking.

And then before any of us knows it, you're here!!

Wendy and Ivy couldn't tear their shoes off fast enough

and then couldn't get their feet out of that freezing water fast enough

pure blissful Dolly and Teddy

the sun starts to slide and we know it's time

To walk the planks once more.

Baker City Family

2011-10-02T21:24:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend. First stop was at Sumpter's Flea Market with my brother Rustin and his adorable family. This little Oregon town goes all out for their weekend flea market parties.

Old time murals are always the best!

With all the walking and treasure-finding you need a full tummy of:
snow cones
soft pretzels
cups filled with ice and soda
fries

Jarom found and treasured a whole old collection of Boys' Life magazines

Orion and Winter were ecstatic to find Bumblebee

The girls LOVED and sported their newest classic 80s accessory - and they were only 10 cents!!

total cuteness you want to bring home with you around every corner

A day of flea market shopping wasn't enough for some - we were lucky to drive right into a mini storage sale. The stuff here was incredible.


picking huckleberries right off the roadway is a MUST - in the Wallowa Mountains

My best pickers!!


After a long hot day of walking, shopping and picking, the Cove Warm Springs (in the teeny town of Cove) was the perfect way to wash the dust from our skin and berry-stained hands and become whole and refreshed!!

cowabunga

yeehaw

The cousins favorite part (besides the jumping) was making uncle Rustin dive down for the heavy black rocks in the deep, so they could hold the rock and let it give them a free ride to the bottom.


Can't come to Baker City without visiting the Sloughhouse Ranch. Just so happens we are very tight with the owners and they love to share their animals, Otter Pops, and the beaut land.

Jenny and I lounging around the ranch in our Etsy clothes. Jenny was an awesome sister and helped model some clothes for our store - Sunbeanbella.


The newest and adored family members - three cute mini donkeys!! Maria, Isabel, and Fireball all loved to be groomed and hand fed!!

Our souvenir - a load of farm fresh eggs collected by the kids themselves

mommy daughter date + best friends

2011-09-30T14:10:00.000-07:00

Bella and I are lucky enough to have our best friends Michelle and Brianne right across the street from us. Brianne is also the only girl in her family besides her mom Michelle, which is only a tiny reason why we get along so well. So whenever something uber girly comes around we all jump on it. Our latest girls night ended up being an overnighter far from home, and the girls even got to miss school. We traveled down to the tip of southern Utah to the Tuacahn Amphitheater. And when I say amphitheater, I mean a natural red rock one - AMAZING! So it was outside in the oh-so-warm night air with the stars twinkling overhead in the middle of nowhere (Ivins, UT).

Best friends - Bella and Brianne

The play that brought us here - The Little Mermaid!!

In our seats soooooo excited, and if we would have known how over-the-top, crazy amazing it was going to be, we would have been jumping up and down on our seats. I had heard great things about it, but I just thought, yeah, The Little Mermaid, of course it's good. Little did we know about effects... Just imagine - the lights turn on, and there in the distance you see a waterfall which begins to flow toward you, cascading over the red rock and then it hits the stage!!!! and then cascades over that!! It started with that and ended with fireworks - I'm not joking. And all the inbetween was just as jaw-dropping, and completely just lovely and entertaining. I was SHOCKED!! I still sit here stunned thinking about it. I could never have imagined anything so well done. Going into this I thought we were paying a little much for a children's play but by the end I was thinking we did not pay enough - now that's a rare treat.

Bella and the glimmering bronze King Triton!!

P.S.: Next year they are doing Aladdin and I'm bring the whole fam. You just might want to meet us there.

Day of Rest

2011-09-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

Well maybe it was not a day, but it sure was a full afternoon and evening.

I just may be waking up to these dirty dishes in the sink, something I usually hate. But not tonight. I'm in love.

My honey took care of kids and made a healthy fulfilling veggie meal.
I sat and read. Finished a book actually. I updated my goodreads and Matt made dessert.

He even cleared the table!!! Which is not all that rare to receive three exclamations points, but I'll be honest. It's pretty darn exciting that he is just going strong like the energizer bunny.

And now my perfect man is simmering his homemade tomato sauce, all fresh from the garden and putting kids to bed at the same time. And here I sit typing away........
Tonight's snuggle will include some garlic stained hands and a new book for me.

p.s. my editor just checked my blog for me and was all over that dirty dishes picture, claiming he was just going to do those!! He is emptying the dishwasher right now..

Beatty Roundup 2011

2011-09-16T16:00:00.000-07:00

Our planned Beatty family camping trip fell through the cracks this year, much to everyone's disappointment. But Matt being who he is was able to whip up another to accommodate every single person in the family and wash away the old "it's too far!", "i don't have enough money!", "i can't get enough time off work!", and so on. He shortened and moved it closer to a place where he doesn't need a map to know where we're going..... our own backyard - southern Utah!!! (thanks be to Adie and her infectious enthusiasm for wanting to come here, and helping set the itinerary.)

We started off in Snow Canyon State Park. And much to everyone's surprise and delight it was not a million degrees when we woke to the desert sun.

My little mountain goats climbed up to the pioneer names, I think being so high up was starting to sink in with Bell.

While I was all the way down there - a little freaky.

We roamed the very surreal petrified sand dunes. And though it was all fun and no work the sun was now shining at full force which just seemed to zap any energy we had. Everyone was beet red.

In our heat-delirious state we decided to concur and select what seemed at the time like the hottest hike of all time. Up the remains of an old volcano, covered in black lava rock.

making our way around the rim

Orion was quite disappointed to find that there was no fiery hot lava bubbling away in the center of the cinder cone.

blistering hot Ade and Bella at the top!

Our next stop - the cool, wet, Virgin River in Zion National Park. I don't think any of us have ever looked so forward to water before. We were lusting for it and eyeing it the whole drive in.

The sweet water woke us right up and brought us back to life.

The sun may have had lasting effects on these three though.

....

and then they decided to make a puzzle

Our trip in Zion seemed to center around water. Emily and Joey, at Weeping Rock. You can't tell but there were boatloads of people. So to kiss the crowds goodbye we went to our friends' "secret swimming hole."

paradise

a cool hidden green gem all to ourselves

Heather and I taking flight for a moment

As soon as the first person jumped in Bella knew she wanted to also. Problem was, she was also very afraid. We all encouraged her but she didn't budge. And then she cried. So I told her to forget it and move on already. She refused and when we least expected it she yelled "I'm going!" and ran and jumped!!!

which also caused this guy to big brother up

Chillin and living the dream.... until the "secret swimming hole" became not so secret. But it was a marvelous thing to have for a while.

youngest to ...

... oldest. We had an awesome time. But awesome or not, it was time to move along.

We moved on to Red Canyon on our way in to Bryce. This was the first place where we were able to get a double site. We celebrated by preparing loads of food and a game of trivia (thanks of course to Heather and her love of trivia, and Jarom provided the amazing information from his National Geographic Kids magazines)!!

cute couples unite!! Em and Joey

Heather and Darin

Mikie and Amber

girls at Fairyland Point

starting our first hike in Bryce Canyon National Park

The earth's first artist - the earth itself. Orange and blue complement and contrast each other equally.

Down

Down we go, through Wall Street

making sure we don't leave Papa in the dust

glowing orange

feeling so small, at the bottom looking up at these huge defiant Douglas firs stretching up out of the abyss

I want to keep a little orange dust in my pocket, doesn't it look so magical?

feeling like we entered a Dr. Seuss book

And all the way back at the top, you just can't get enough of the view.

We had two nights at a double site in Kodachrome Basin State Park. We came in with the full moon.

another desert (Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument) and another swimming hole - Lower Calf Creek Falls

thank you heaven, I have been blessed

The hike in was ever so hot and long. But we stayed and played long enough to be able to enjoy the hike back, naming flowers and finding old Indian ruins and rock art.

A lonely side trail to the hard-to-reach (and hard-to-find) Hundred Hands pictograph panel. Quite a sight. I wish I knew the story behind it ...

Our last day was mostly driving, but before hitting the road we went out, WAY out to Grosvenor Arch in the middle of the monument.

Everyone followed us home, where hot showers and real beds awaited. Darin was sweet enough to play the Wii with the kids, and they didn't mind that he was half asleep.

Can't wait till we are all together again. To see what other adventures we can dream up.

last weekend of freedom

2011-09-14T20:11:00.000-07:00

like any awesome parents we wanted to PARTY it up on the last weekend before school started, and thanks to the cheapness of CityDeals we booked a room in Park City and lived it up like kings ... old-school style

three to a bed

Orion is a big fan of "cheers," which fits in with our high rolling ways

but the pool, in this old and ever-so-groovy hotel, was of course the highlight!!

oh yeah

little fish

bella, you shouldn't have

some can only swim for so long - ok, so it's just me - but i really wanted to walk around town, Park City's Silly Farmers Market was going on.

one would think she was having a heart-freeze-attack, but no... she is struggling to hold her smile while i fumble with the camera

bad pic, but our only one of our very first taste of grilled PB&J - mmm

classic cars are very suiting on a summer's day

Jarom's tank and the can of Pepsi Throwback also seem to go hand in hand

embracing their freedom

and this one jumps for joy that school is starting

i'm struggling here, not wanting to blog that is. this is my attempt at starting back up and hoping i can catch the blogging bug. hate hate hate feeling so far behind.

this day (August 2)

2011-09-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

it did not start like any other.

surprise surprise. i can't remember the last time i was honestly surprised, boy was it fun. tickle my fancy, i have got a ukulele!!!! Matt and i then walked blissfully hand in hand out to breakfast and even hit a noon movie showing - Midnight in Paris. a lovely romantic tale of living out your dreams. which seemed perfect and all too magical on our 10th anniversary. a great reminder of why we do what we do. and to top the day off we abandoned our car and followed the stream.

once out in this wonderland, you're blessed with clarity and can leave the world behind.

this enchanted forest seemed timeless but ancient

we reached our destination right before sunset, and completely lost ourselves

a rushing waterfall

emerald and jade hot springs lined the stream

me and my piece of heaven on earth

i wasted no time in testing out the water, and it was as good as it looks

a soak with a view

and watching my man strip....ooooo ya

he says he "forgot" to pack his swim-shorts

soulmates

poolside picnic

mango, avocado rolls

walking back under the crescent moon

on the road we were blessed with love and luck. how often has the wise owl ever stopped and waited for you? definitely a sign that we are on the right path.

love you matt

our summer fabric

2011-08-31T16:26:00.000-07:00

is started with playing on the sandy shore of Lake Tahoe with our cousins

father and son chats

braid in a little of the theatric

back where we were homespun - Placerville, California

the silver sparkly thread will have been made by these lovely dancing reindeer brothers

the softness that can only be added by nana

the richness comes from mother earth - Yosemite

"Do not come and roam here unless you are willing to be enslaved by its charms.

Its beauty and peace and harmony will entrance you.

Once it has you in its power, it will never release you the rest of your days." - Gordon Wallace (read The Last Season!)

"The blessings of one mountain day,

whatever his fate,

long life,

short life,

stormy or calm,

he is rich forever." - John Muir

this is a family favorite - Vernal Falls, or better known as the Mist Trail. even as kids, every year my sibs and I would quickly unpack the Suburban as soon as we pulled into our campsite so we could run off and be cooled in the downpour of mist.

and after much hiking, treats and swimming are in order

the family thread is the most thick and sturdy. gathered around the campfire to hear my dad tell stories of my ancestors

sisters have a special thread of their own, it keeps the family thread in line

bliss in our fabric is a dusty pink, and being kissed under the stars by my very tired lover

"Everything has beauty but not everyone sees it." - Confucius. have you ever noticed the new growth on trees? and if so, have you ever felt how perfectly soft it is?

my growing fabric grows with my girl

the fabric and trees are one and the same

can't have one without the other

the magic and wonder

ahh the roots.... what are the roots in your life?

and what is life without a little new age fun - midnight showings

me and my mini-me

Merry and hers

and it all comes back to family

and nature - aunt Heather and one of her favorite river spots

green and dreamy

"I wish I knew where I was going. Doomed to be carried of the spirit in the wilderness, I suppose." - John Muir

Doing what we do best

2011-08-23T13:48:00.000-07:00

It took less than a total of 24 hours after my friend Celeste and I sent our big kids back to school for us to pick up right where we left off,

on some beautiful winding mountain side. Summer may be over for the kids, but the sun has plans to blaze through the rest of her days. Staying in the shaded canyon is as nice as waterfall mist.

Orion and Thomas have had some major withdrawals this summer with everyone's busy schedules but here they are back in sync.

Hiking away to the beat of Thomas's tambourine. Chewing on rose-hips and smelling the ever so fragrant squaw brush.........mmmmmmmmmmm

I may have had waterfall mist on my mind for I knew our trail was taking us straight to it.

Got here right in time to see the sun pop up over Battle Creek Falls.

Which means that refreshing waterfall spray will stay just that while we play in the sun.

These boys are always ready to play, climb, pick, throw, and came home covered head to toe in dirt. Which is proof alone of their good times.

On the way back down we ran into a man who thought I was between the ages of 16-18. He was pretty floored when I told him 29! I made sure to tell him thank you for the early birthday gift being that I will be 30 in less than two months. I wanted to take a picture of myself to see what the man saw...... I don't see it. I have come to the conclusion that being in the photo with Orion MUST age me :)

All of a sudden the kids being back in school doesn't seem so bad. What a easy breezy life I lead.

Thank you to the best hiking buddies - Celeste and Thomas. See ya tomorrow?

first day of school

2011-08-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

backpacks on and lunches packed

my 3rd grader... grinning behind clenched teeth asking me why does he have to smile, he's not even excited for school to start. He did pick out his back to school shirt paired with the shorts he wore yesterday insisting they are clean.

my 2nd grader on the other hand was up rearing to go. wanting me to curl her hair and asking me what shoes she should wear.

wishing them the best, hoping they make new friends, and know that O and I will be missing them

red rover, red rover

2011-07-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

send berries right over

Bella loves to pick in comfort. Hat - check. Glasses - check,.Chair - check. This is only our second season with these amazing raspberries, but it only takes one time of picking to realize you could be here ALL DAY LONG and feel like you didn't even make a dent.

my Huckleberry Finn

the bounty from this day

Last year we made buckets and buckets of jam and we still have tons of it even though we bestowed it upon everyone we knew for Christmas gifts. So we did the only thing left to do besides just eating them perfectly sweet and whole. We baked them into the most divine muffins - well, Matt did. But the rest of us devour them for breakfast, lunch and dessert! Of course not dinner. Even with all the baking we have done we still have one loaded freezer full, and freshly picked overflowing bowls in the fridge which brings us to our newest purchase... we have fallen victim to the fancy make-and-do-anything blender craze. If you don't want one then watch out for the guy at Costco who has the gall to make rice milk, add agave and spinach and turn it into ice cream in two seconds flat right in front of you, and then he has you taste it. I was a goner. Sooooooo, with this new toy we will be making raspberry syrup, shakes, dressings, smoothies and ice cream. We are also hoping this will help with our tomato infestation - soups and sauces away!

Please come and help us play with our new toy and eat our glorious bounty - xoxo. I mean it!!!

swim towards the light

2011-07-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

Our old goldfish, Daisy, Spot, Nibbles, and Pumpkin have been lovely fixtures in the freezer for the last few months but their time has finally come (again). And on a side note, we need that space desperately!!! (Our garden has blessed us once again.) So it is time to give these fish what they have coming to them - a proper farewell. Our golden little friends who brought us such joy - even if it was short lived - are loving dumped in the stream at Cascade Springs, to complete their circle of life.

the ever gentle flowing current, true to its own, was eager to help bring them to their final resting places

shimmering, sunny golds - like our fish's scales - lovingly covered everything in our path

along with flowers in full glorious, glamorous bloom

baby moose was out and about making the most of this enchanting evening

a natural beaut!

yellow columbine

cascades a-tumbling

the perfect meadow for picnicking

he knows no wish is complete without blowing every single last seed off

preparing the goods

crumbled falafel wraps

enjoyed by all

hot july

2011-07-03T18:15:00.000-07:00

It seems to be hotter than usual around these parts. Which means my poor honey is suffering, while I dance with delight. Our summers get extremely hot, which in my view makes up for the extremely cold winters. As of late we have we have been loving the few things that we have been able to harvest: round red radishes, gobs of strawberries, multiple lettuces, and cilantro that smells so divine. We have had a few casualties. Our poor bok choy and broccoli have both bolted, gone to seed, and flowered. We were not equipped with the right knowledge at the right time. We will honor them by eating what we can, and saving seeds.

The carnival moved in right down the street, so it could not be avoided. We promised the kids ONE ride which was exactly what our friends the Barbers promised their son Andrew - Bella's good friend and ride partner.

loving the rose colored mountains on our walk downtown

Making our final stop at the rooftop concert. Which just so happened to be Beatles night -- The Abbey Road Show playing Abbey Road in its entirety!! (Guess Sus does not agree with whatever I'm saying, ha.)

it just so happens to be this little girl's favorite band/music

every night ends looking a little something like this

Yesterday we did all the weekend shopping so we could have everything we needed for Sunday and the 4th. The kids have big plans for raking in the dough on the 4th. Matt bought them all the soda and water they would need in a deal that they would pay him back. Provo holds Utah's biggest parade just down the street from us, and every year, for some reason, everyone in the state comes (there are a quarter million people who attend ... seriously). It gets totally insane - which we love (most the time). This year the kids want to take advantage of the heat and crowds by selling drinks and homemade treats.

aaaand since we had everything we thought we would give it a test at the Stadium of Fire fireworks show last night, where thousands of people watch from the temple grounds. Jarom is sooo all over this. It is kind of embarrassing though I can't help but love it, just because Jarom gets such a high from it. We made a tiny sign that said - "Cold pop for 1 dollar or 3 for 2 bucks." We quickly decided the 3-for-2 deal was a bad idea because people loved it and all of our water was gone within minutes.

In the end they only made $23. They are now halfway to earning some money. Matt spent $40.

But after the trial run I'm thinking they just might have some real success tomorrow. Keeping our fingers crossed.

waiting for the show to begin

showed Oey an oldie but a goodie

Jarom was forced to stop and enjoy the show

this one could not be stopped - wonder if it was the "new" trick I showed him with the red vine straw?

real fullblown fireworks

and my little fam

Today Bell and I started on those homemade treats. But, after making both vanilla and chocolate cupcakes from scratch topped with chocolate ganache in the now-suffering heat of my kitchen and they both turned out to be flops in the looks department, I think I will not go on and make any doughnut holes.

Do you think anyone would want to buy these homely cupcakes? The site wasn't lying when it said they were the best-tasting cupcakes ever ...

let yourself be lost

2011-07-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

waking up to this

at 6:30 am

running around Provo's 27th Balloon Festival

Bella's favorite is the yellow one with flowers

my favorite

keeping your eyes to the sky

has its rewards

Darth Vader came from Belgium

longing to be free

one by one

they float away

true to the red, white and blue

one last one being inflated

the Coke bottle - tallest hot air balloon in the world at 187 feet

Maybe one day we will get the opportunity to drift along with the clouds, but then I wonder if we would miss the all-you-can-eat-pancakes!!

Summer solstice packing heat

2011-06-30T20:20:00.000-07:00

For the summer solstice last week we couldn't think of any better way to welcome summer than by hanging out in the backyard.

it just so happens that the name of the chapter we were on that night was "Midsummer Eve"

Bella and Jarom listened intently while Orion perfected the perfect fall into summer

And summer has been HOT!! Daddy and Orion making the trek home from the water park. Problem with walking the mile home is that it only takes a few short steps to realize you want to walk back the other way. We come home a little braindead each time.

escaping the heat with the free kids bowling at Fat Cats

right before he dribbles the ball down the lane

the winner!! with a whopping 89!!

living-room camping/party

all sea critters must be on a leash

Late night run to the drive-in. The kids have no problem staying up till 1:00 am to finish off the double header.

always time for love letters, on our new (old) Coronet Super 12 electric typewriter -- Jarom's DI find

Bella's to her daddy

The last couple of years we have been out of town for all the festivities that go on here for the 4th of July.

The Freedom Festival is kicked off with the Children's Parade. A bunch of us from the neighborhood made sure to use this as our soapbox. Recently a bill passed allowing anyone to pave up to 40% of their backyard, which is up 15% from the previous ordinance. To some, it may not sound like a big deal, but you have to know all the CONCRETE details. Because it means you can virtually pave the whole backyard. The law before had a 75% landscaping requirement, and that has now been eliminated, down to 0%!!!!! YES - 0%! The reasoning behind the change was because they have gotten "complaints" that some could not reach their third garage (really?) or had no room to park their RVs with only 25% paved. We real Provo residents know better though. And cannot be convinced otherwise. Already, since the passing of the new bill, whole backyards have been blacktopped over. And guess what?! It was exactly what we feared, and knew would happen. And it was NOT for anyone's third garage or RV!! It is a parking lot!! For all those landlords who reap the benefits of buying up our historic homes and renting each room out but need more parking!! A bunch of us concerned citizens met with the mayor about this issue for three and half hours last week in the Barbers' backyard, along with some city council members. Our Joaquin neighborhood chair created a petition that we are hoping to fill with signatures to help our case. Please sign it if you're with us!: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/strongerneighborhoodsforprovo/

The youngest and cutest activist

Oliver and Raquel's sign read, "Stop the Pavement." Matt and I held one that said, "Save our Yards!"

We may have been chanting, but whenever us adults stopped, the kids were eagar to pick it up and chant even louder.

No one seemed to mind or even really take notice. So we thought.

Happy to be part of it all and rewarded with popsicles at the end.

It has been an overwhelming week of to-dos and must-get-dones while driving in the 90-degree weather, stuck going from parking lot to parking lot, running errands that make it feel more like a million degrees out. Needing to run away from the heat and the hate of more heat coming from our new parking lots I couldn't help but take a "wrong" turn and enjoy what lies waiting at my fingertips. My mountains. Nothing can calm the ringing society in my head like the breeze rushing down to kiss my pulsing temples. Calm.

These mountains bring me such solace throughout the year. These emerald snowcapped mountains last for the shortest season. So you have to take it all in everyday. Fortunately for me they greet and follow me throughout my day. They smack me in the face with pure beauty and grace when I walk out of Costco. They attend every single one of Jarom's baseball games.

They have filled our rivers. Happy and bustling they flow.

Putting our feet into freshly melted snow dissolves all anger and is a straight shot of renewed strength for every pore and cell.

my three amigos

make every summer day remarkable

we stayed as long as we could

and also delayed whenever we could - while the kids stopped to catch butterflies,

I made sure to keep taking in the view.

Camping rain dance

2011-06-21T21:55:00.001-07:00

For Father's Day weekend we joined our good buds Tyler and Alene and headed out to camp at gorgeous Maple Canyon. It was a Root family affair, though we crashed it properly and added our rambunctious kids to the mix. Conglomerate pillars, worn box canyons, and sunlight shifting through the trees.

the view out our tent window

Bella's new friend

the gang setting up down below

hiking through the box canyon

with kids and dogs

we went under boulders

climbed over ten-foot ledges (handing small people up and down)

and stood above it all in the lushness, so proud to be rock-conquerors

At the end of the canyon was this 30-35 foot waterfall. Not much of a fall anyway, just a trickle with a soaked rope draped down its face at about an 80-degree pitch--steep. Tyler made the first ascent, stopping just short of climbing over the ledge at the top ...

... and I couldn't resist going after, while the kids argued about who would follow (naturally).

I climbed over the top, and then Jarom tried to follow me up. Jarom is a natural climber, willing and daring, and he loves it. But he's reckless (wonder where he gets that from), and got stuck halfway up. While I stood helpless, Tyler scaled up and eased Jarom down.

A different route to explore a ledge cave. The whole Root clan was insanely good with our kids, always helping them up and down to explore and keep them safe. Tyler and his little bro Bobby were particularly great.

boxed in

We stayed up late around a roaring fire, the sky clouded over. We expected some rain the next day, but went to bed and dry and warm. Yet--in started pouring sometime in the late night. And never stopped. We woke up to pouring rain, hoping to wait it out. The Root parents had a camp trailer with a small canopy, and they fried up a big delicious breakfast burrito fiesta while we stayed dry in the tent. We didn't bring real shoes for anyone, or rain-repelling jackets. The food warmed us up but our feet froze. We reluctantly let the rain win, and packed up all our soaking wet gear, folded it into a big pile and threw it in the back of the car. We'll be back to Maple Canyon soon, to round out the experience by hiking the three-mile loop up to a beautiful view and past the arch.

you can kind of see the dry spot where the tent had been

ready to warm up, after packing up

It's only an hour and a half from home, so we hit the rainy road and decided to spend it like a real rainy day--inside.

We showered up and got cozy for our cooler lunch we picnicked downstairs, while watching a classic we'd never seen, Time Bandits. I fell asleep (hey, it's Father's Day).

And then Amy and the kids surprised me with homemade sugar cookies spelling out their love for me. A sweet weekend's end and a perfect Father's Day together.

eight days a week

2011-06-20T17:02:00.000-07:00

typical days of fun around here ... have made some slight improvements

Strawberry Days are here!! As soon as we got to the free concert Matt was bombarded with sweetness.

Rachel, Paul, and Matty digging into the free strawberries and cream

along with the best of them

I think you can tell which three are mine. This pool may not look like the best summer fun ...

but it is.

No joking. We all (yes, me too) love to take our turn sliding into the "pool." I was the only one to slide completely out of the pool and skid down the grass.

London, Bella, and Faye with the best seats in the house

that is, if you like to watch us :)

biggest

mediums

smallest - all twirled to death on what Orion calls "the alien spaceship"

Rach and I made a mad dash to watch our men play those tricky carnival games

Victory!! Paul won London a little puppy.

So Matty surely had to win a little pink something for his sweet one.

Which in turn made Jarom want to win something for his little brother. The man running the game knew this and when Jarom didn't win he found Jarom the smallest of stuffed pups to give to Orion.

Bella wore this shirt every single day last week!!! Our one and only daughter has died and gone to heaven. We finally signed her up for her first acting class.

Ain't she a natural?

Growing like a tree

She preformed in "Where the Wild Things Are" and "Hattie and the Fox" last Friday. Very, very, very entertaining to say the least.

Today was the first day of swim lessons. Jarom was bummed that he has to share a class with his sister. Which is what happens when you don't pass your class from last year and your sister is right on your heels.

My proud moment of the day!!! Orion following and listening to his instructor. He makes a great shark.

Happy sister.

Earth in the nude

2011-06-16T22:12:00.000-07:00

Moab Art Festival

homemade coconut popsicles

sweet grilled corn

and creamy homemade ice cream. so we basically mastered the art of eating.

for dessert...

swimming

towels? none needed, when there's sunbaked cement around to warm little bodies

Little did we know that little town of Moab, population 4,000, had 80,000 more peeps come in for the weekend. It proved to be nearly impossible to find a site (or even a room) our first night. Fortunately for us, after hours of searching all known campsites we decided to just crash on a meadow. Which we came to find out was an actual group site, that they freely shared with us - phew. Early the next day, after people packed up, we got ourselves a site of our own (more like a dirt parking lot). Orion made it feel more homey with his rock collected firepit.

which was soon christened

One night in the parking lot was all we wanted. Bella sat and read while the rest of us packed up.

Now this is a site!!! Down in the Canyonlands Needles we had land and cliffs of our own to roam, dream, and breathe.

which the kids got right to work at

"The wind will not stop. Gusts of sand swirl before me, stinging my face.

But there is still too much to see and marvel at, the world very much alive in the bright light and wind, exultant with the fever of spring, the delight of morning.

Strolling on,

it seems to me that the strangeness and wonder of existence are emphasized here,

in the desert,

by the comparative sparsity of the flora and fauna:

life not crowded upon life as in other places but scattered abroad in spareness and simplicity,

with a generous gift of space for each herb and bush and tree, each stem of grass, so that the living organism stands out bold and brave

and vivid against the lifeless sand and barren rock. The extreme clarity of the desert light is equaled by the extreme individuation of the desert light is equaled by the extreme individuation of the desert life-forms. Love flowers best in openness and freedom." -- Edward Abbey

peppergrass tasted just like wasabi

harvesting some for the trail

bracing Bella in the almighty wind and grit storm

lying low

feeling lucky to have brought sunglasses while the kids blindly walk towards the sound of my voice

we knew our hike could not go on in the wind at this very site

even daddies need protection

the walk back was surprisingly calm

not the first time this has happened down here, and most likely not the last

not Oey's firepit, but it will do

testing out our newest toy

perfection!! ooey gooey marshmallow cream and melted chocolate all wrapped up in a toasty croissant

or you can stick to the original

no wind needed for this guy

ranger campfire talk about the Anasazi

waking up in time to watch Orion excitedly pull on his shoes

First things first with this one. Wanting to finish her Junior Ranger program before she plays.

or perches in a juniper

couldn't drive by this valley of globemallow without thinking of this dress and snapping a few pics for our shop

hanging out in the old rustic cowboy camp

Ancient grinding stones. Wonder what life was like in this kitchen. Nicely settled out of the sun next to natural running water, a seeping spring rock.

climbing high

And taking more photos wherever we go. I just bring my little handy dandy suitcase which made for a nice prop.

happiness

Orion's face is the clincher in this one

Oldest newspaper out there

We had driven back into town to get ice cream and hike but the kids fell asleep on the drive and Matt had really want to stop during our drive to do this mini hike but I opted to let the kids sleep and keep driving. We stopped to get ice cream. A nice way to wake kids up, but the place we stopped at was half ice cream, half book shop - everyone's favorite, unless it's one of those shops where you can feel the disgust in the worker's stance and a glare since you have wild KIDS!! Which then very quickly becomes my WORST nightmare. I made us leave, much to everyone's disappointment. No books and no creamy ice cream. I did find another place real quick but while waiting in line Matt said one little thing that really ticked me off like "this doesn't look as good" and I stormed out again with no ice cream. Feeling hurt. Like Matt was mad and taking it out on me. I sat in the car to burn off some steam in my journal while the kids laughed and played in the sun, ice cream dripping off their chins and Matt sneakily taking photos of them in front of a bright colored graftti wall. Guess I was the one in need of a timeout.

Journal entry
May 30, 2011 Moab

Guess what? I'm sorry you are mad! I have been having a fine time. Not saying a word that said otherwise. Sorry I don't like kids in stuffy quiet book shops. Sorry this weekend has not gone to plan for you and your many plans. But in the end it has been GREAT! - fun memories made and you will forget that nothing went your way. Our pictures tell a story of wild rafting way more fun than we ever expected. The kids wanted more. Waves so big we were afraid we would be washed away. We did get soaked but managed to stay in the raft. We were lucky to find a campground every single night even if it didn't go to plan. 1st night after hours of searching we were able to share a meadow. Night #2. Not wanting to mooch any longer and wanting a campfire of our own you found the one and only open campsite of our own. We set up camp and swam the night away. We had no firepit so the kids gathered rocks and made one - they were so happy and pleased with their efforts, excited for some real camping to begin. FIRE! A fire you made them - they danced with delight. Day #3. We packed up early to make sure to get a spot at our next destination. We arrived at Needles, Canyonlands. The woman working told us we most likely would have no luck finding a spot. Not taking her word till we saw with our own eyes we not only found one, but two.... three!! What to do? We hurried and claimed the very best - 2. The kids had natural-made forts out of old junipers- climbing walls of stone. We pitched our tent and went for some hikes. The winds were wild and intense which made your 6 mile hike 2. But the views, seen through our tear-sand-blasted eyes, were seen in awe. Lying on warm stones safe from the wind, chewing on our new found snack - peppergrass. More campfires inbetween ranger speeches. Loving our plot of land for the night with dust, sand, and grit in our ears, to name one safe place. Glow in the dark star books. Orion wanting you to read about Scorpius again. Hearing the story how Scorpius stung Orion. And Orion saying, "he don't have my face," looking at the bearded hunter in the book. Snuggled in our tent feeling like we were in the middle of a tornado. Sunny peaceful morning brought eggs and toast. More exploring and climbing to all's delight. Kids earning Jr Ranger badges because of you. Kids all asleep at the arch you wanted to climb. Till now. Everyone is back in the car. Faces freshly washed. I saw them all smeared and dripping chocolate and animal tracks ice cream outside - while I sat here in the hot car and wrote - all refreshed - off to the next hike.

which was just what we all needed

Matt and kids at Bow Tie Arch

Standing under Corona Arch

"The beauty of Delicate Arch explains nothing, for each thing in its way, when true to its own character, is equally beautiful." -- Edward Abbey

Pepper Pot

But some sweet someone can look beyond the crazy and find love. See... he takes a picture of me and then of heart shaped rocks xoxo.

"our journey here on earth... is the most strange and daring of all adventures" -- E. A.

one week till

2011-06-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

summer

but who's waiting?
- warm, sun-starched clothes
- swimming
- raspberry seeds stuck between my teeth
- summer theater camp
- freckles
- brown kids = very white bums
- throwing snails over the fence
- swimming
- outdoor dining
- evening walks are hours later
- watermelon
- slip-n-slides
- carelessness
- swimming
- camping every weekend
- gardening
- farmers market
- road trips
- bliss

REAL

2011-06-12T18:59:00.000-07:00

I know there are a million other things I could be blogging about but those can wait. Trips and adventures will always be there but today will not.

Our love pizza is going into the oven for dinner right NOW!! So I have twenty minutes to do this thang!! Then it's dinner with my babes.

Happiness comes in many shapes and sizes but as of late these comfy, cozy shams are rocking my dreams.

and my newest bookbag picked up by my love from a local thrift shop

homemade slippers from 99-year young Great Grandma Georgie

rooftop concerts... that are free

walking to the greatest restaurant just for dessert

Waking up next to this. Letting babes slip into our bed has always been a big NO NO!! But as time goes by you realize you are really going to miss the big NO NOs and let them snuggle up.

an oldie from last month - Mother's Day mug from my boy

Jarom's latest obsession is making smoothies. A little frightening to wake up to this....

but others love it

Looked in every room, called his name downstairs and outside. getting a little panicked till I hear this little muffled "hello." Hiding out in the toybox.

Yard sale!!! This is a day the kids really look forward to. Making money. We took a vote and with the yard sale earnings the kids are getting their much desired trampoline.

I was busy planting in the backyard but could hear the kids calling "healthy treats for sale" over and over and over again. Jarom was very proud of his creation - the "mushroom kids" - Sour Patch Kids with raspberry hats.

Matt ran his second half marathon of the season. This one just happened to be down our very own Provo Canyon. Matt's time keeps on dwindling. This time he ran 13.1 miles at a 7:36 pace. Freaking amazing. And he looks it.

Walking home from the race this little parakeet landed right in front of us. We tried to catch him. And followed him all around the block. But he got away. :( I'm wishing him well, hoping we meet again.

baseball picture day

Jarom got to "run home" two times yesterday

The kids are signed up for every summer reading program out there. Jarom reads to the kids in the car, at bedtime and anytime they ask. Orion, being the "baby" that he is, insists on sitting on the lap of whomever is reading. (Don't worry, Jarom has underpants on.)

any free time we have goes into the backyard

lucky for me, I have got some great, enthusiastic helpers, pulling out all of our "mother weeds"

finding treasures

we started by cleaning out every bed, expect for the strawberries

The red barrel and the old white cooler are our first attempts at growing potatoes. This year we ordered over 30 different veggies from Seeds Savers Exchange. New fun ones like red dragon carrots, rainbow swiss chard, and a black tomato that they say is the ugliest but tastiest.

Real pleasure comes from watching the snap peas come to height so they can start growing up their new trellis.

I come outside countless times just to look at my flowers. They bring me so MUCH happiness. Last year was our first year in this house and all we had were rocks in the front. All I wanted was lovely flowers. I, being new to this, just picked some perennials that said they required very little water. It didn't seem to be working so well. Those yellow coreopsis looked like the smallest baby green bushes. The flowers seemed to hide in shame under the leaves. Imagine my surprise to have them quadruple in size and the flower stems just bursting out proudly, showing off their flowers.

The herb garden is also in full bloom

This afternoon I found Orion with the a bowl of freshly picked strawberries. He gladly ate every single one leaving the strawberry tops neatly lined up on the bunkbed ladder. Afterwards, we took a nice stroll around the block. Orion chose to ride his bike pants-less.

To you, we tip our hats

2011-06-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

How would it be to ride the great Colorado River? You who lure us in with your soft milk chocolate color. Filled with silt from chipping away at the sandstone cliffs, down through the Grand Canyon all these years. Life follows wherever you go. Not a force to be messed with but to be admired, oooohed and ahhhhed. People of Las Vegas, LA, San Diego, Tucson, and Phoenix should sing your praises to their graves and write of you on their tombstones. God bless the Colorado, for you bless me.

We were lucky to spend one early morning with you

taking you very seriously

until your first big roller-coaster wave that greeted us with splashes and somersaults flipping in our tummies

happily going with your flow

blessings, blessings

thank you, thank you

Matt taking his turn playing the game at lunch. A game made purely to flex your muscles... not for me.

sand angel

My favorite view. He is in pure heaven - letting his inner river-guide out with his new best friend.

Colorado, you leave me speechless. I had read of your power and knew of your path. But had no idea just how playful and fun you could be. There is too much goodness to thank you for. But I must let you know this is a start of a wonderful friendship. And to you, we tip our hats.

She's got a way about her

2011-06-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

Dolly Anna, my beautiful baby sister got MARRIED!!

for her bachelorette party we went to her favorite tree at sunset

tried to have teddy take a photo of us girls

making faces with dessert

Dolly was more into munching on her broccoli

we sat here talking till closing... and then sat in the parking lot... and then in the park and ride...

Dolly and Tyler

blushing bride

trying to get a group photo...

much harder...

than it looks

no problem getting everyone to eat at the picnic

Glory and I busied ourselves filling a million jars with freshly picked wildflowers from around the town. All picked by Dolly's great friend Diana in the background. BTW, Diana also made Dolly's wedding dress!! And a good friend made Dolly buffalo moccasins and her crown of ivy and ferns.

It was the least we could do to help Jessica and Patsy out. They put all the hard work into making Dolly's dream reception come true.

dolly with her bridesmaids

Jessica also made the cake and Will hung the lanterns. Dad made the cake stand.

first dance...

turned funky

dancing with the flower girls

Glory and Heather both wearing their momma's dresses

Dolly's man comes with the world's greatest mom, Tammy

We sisters danced till the candles burned out

a family affair

2011-06-01T21:54:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2011

A glimpse into Nana and Jack's wedding

the wedding took place in the small charming town of Sutter Creek, CA

Sunshine broke through the morning rain. Bright wildflowers drooped and freed their fragrances to the wind.

Sweet Nana, the bride could not let the wedding start without gifting the flower girl a special necklace. This beautiful day also just so happened to be Bella's 7th birthday. We named her Bella Spring, after Nana Spring, not knowing that Bella would indeed become more than a namesake, a miniature Nana.

Joey and Em's harmonic tune rode the green rushing river and I'm pretty sure Nana was not the only one with tears in her eyes.

Adie spoke of a pure love and married them

man and wife xoxo

let the celebrating begin!!

Nana made her own luscious carrot cake

dashing men

and us lucky ladies

sharing a moment

the rains came a-pouring and we all went a-running to the honeymoon suite

Spring beauties. The thing about these three is that they really are made of sugar and spice, everything nice.

the boys were able to sit still for a moment once the presents were being opened

The whole family. Just missing Mikie and Arty, plus our newest additions, Jack's two girls. We have lucked out. The kids are stoked to get some playmates. Us kids couldn't dream up a more perfectly suited man for our Nana. He is kind, loving, sincere, and is an outdoor enthusiast!

I know it's weird to leave off with a picture of their bed but I loved it and have to share how amazing it was. Plus, it's exactly where we left them.

Sea breeze

2011-05-26T22:25:00.000-07:00

San Diego

We pulled into town drowsy after driving all night

the crisp salty air and stretching our legs at Imperial Beach

sand in our toes

and wet booties woke us right up

surrounded by beauty

sand dollars worth more than a dollar

hugging the wave licked cliffs, Cabrillo National Monument

watching the tide come in

looking and searching

for friends (brown pelicans)

and those who want to be left alone

keeping a close eye on my babes

playing it safe

unless you have a hand to hold

a tribute to Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo

The old Point Loma lighthouse

Last beach of the day, Ocean Beach

O and I stayed in the warm toasty sand

These two could not escape the call of the sea

and believe it or not - we all got burnt

I finally got down to business and modeled some clothes for my forthcoming Etsy shop.

the wind really wanted to help

but may have done the opposite

This is one place you can't just drive by

But bask in its glorious realm

And thank heaven

that families are forever

ending the day and letting loose our sand-trapped bodies in the spa

Legoland

2011-05-25T20:50:00.000-07:00

This year we decided to try something different for our usual May (Disneyland) southern California trip. It may have something to do with the fact that we found a few coupons on the kids' Christmas gifts, which were Legos. The coupons were free child ticket with purchase of an adult ticket.

It was raining lightly the whole drive over. We just kept our fingers crossed that it would let up. But while standing in the parking lot and trying to find/get our stroller out it started to pour. It was a little crazy and I may have said the words, "everyone get back in the car we are leaving." Tears started falling quicker than the rain. So here we are - LEGOLAND!!

Taking shelter under the natural umbrella

and in the Lego shop. Nope, not candy, I checked. While we pored over the map strategizing our every move for the day.

Just so happens they just opened their new Star Wars land

Fortunately the rain stopped before we got on our first ride. And if you stood in the sun long enough you got dry and very warm!! Legoland miracle.

I know it looks like we are having a blast. And we were. But I have to be honest. This place really does suck unless you have kids. There - it's out. Now don't say I never told you so.

Prepare yourself - Star Wars Legos

The pictures just don't do it justice. Those little guys move and play music. Far more entertaining than those rides.

And my favorite, the Ewoks. I know, true Star Wars fans are not fans of these little furry critters, but cut me some slack. As a young girl my sisters and I would watch this video over and over again loving the glimpse of the little baby Ewok. Plus you got to love where they live and those little buck teeth. And since we are being honest, sometimes I use their words. Anyone else say garoonduh?

Hanging out in Miniland. Again, much better than the rides.

the line up in line

Orion posed with every single Lego statue

And wanted a photo with each one

Happy kids and sunshine is pure bliss

making them sweeter

We were not leaving without trying the granny apple fries

Didn't take long for this to happen

We were ever so lucky to meet up with Uncle Mikie for dinner, at the Yard House in downtown LA!!!

Mikie surprised Bell by letting the waiter know it was her birthday

I love how she is looking at Mikie. She and the rest of the kids completely go gaga over him.

by the sweat of their brow

2011-05-11T19:17:00.000-07:00

The kids are racing for a cure and to help earn money for Japan relief.

We have been racing fools over here. The kids school had a jog-a-thon to help earn money for Japan. They merrily knocked on doors around the block hoping to get some sponsors for this great cause. Everyone was very sweet in emptying their pockets. Even a few quarters would make them nuts with excitement.

Jarom started strong

They had the kids wear a paper on their back and they would mark them as they ran by. In the end Bella had 49 laps which equals 4 miles!!

Spring-clad Susan had the fun job of making the tallies and sending them off with pep to keep them going.

Bella ran until the bitter end. Jarom stopped after 2 miles.

They were rewarded with fresh smoothies and yummy fruit. The school's goal was to raise 10,000 dollars. I'm hoping we beat it!!

Race for the CURE

It amazingly grows larger every year - people as far as you can see, all there for the very same loving, hopeful reason.

Orion was soooo super stoked to finally get the chance to run after standing on the sidelines for the last two races.

This speed demon always pulled ahead though

which broke his little heart time and time again

mad dash to the end

always fun to see people get creative

proudly making full use of his bra

This is Jarom and Bella's favorite part of the race... collecting all their free loot: ice cream, yogurt, water, scarf, bread, oranges, and of course candy.

This guy only wanted the balloon

It was quite a humbling sight to watch the survivors parade and be honored. So overwhelming.

happy to share our day with such amazing people

Cinco de Mayo

2011-05-10T18:05:00.000-07:00

I used to live across the street from the sweetest, hottest, little momma. But she moved a block away and then I moved a block in the opposite direction. We were still so close but in this busy world the only time our crosses passed were on the internet!! One day last week the sun was smiling and all I wanted to do was enjoy it. So out O and I went. Of course I'm not the only smart lady around who knows when it is just too nice to stay inside. Who do you think we ran into? Little Momma Nadia and her boys. The sun and then Nadia.... this day just could not be beat. We chatted as long as our boys would allow. And before we parted ways she invited us to her Cinco de Mayo party!!

Beautiful Nadia and her youngest son Ethan. For those of you who don't know Nadia, she is one heck of an authentic cook!! I knew this party (food) was going to be amazing since all Nadia asked me to bring was 30 tomatillos.

The kids played games like Red Rover

all different personalities shine through

my hot date

and the ugliest clown piñata you have ever seen - makes the beating all that more fun

Orion attacking it with a shovel. The other boy has a lightsaber.

Bella surprising us with some killer whacks

quite pleased with them

Jarom trying to take it down with one arm. The other arm tightly clutched the clown's other foot with candy inside.

utter and complete joy (madness)

score

Nadia and I, the only real festive dressed-up adults.

The kids made cozy and enjoyed licking their ice cream cones and listening to the band

Bella danced me in circles

and was dipped by her daddy

She was also my twin

Nadia!!! Thank you xoxoxo

Runaway Spring

2011-05-04T20:04:00.000-07:00

Last day of April brought snow and the big race.

One chilly beautiful morning. This half marathon goes through the Thanksgiving Point Gardens during the height of the Tulip Festival, then the golf course and the Jordan River Parkway along the river. It's a challenging run over hills (and in the snow!) but the spring-fresh scenery charges your mind, spirit, and body. Matt powered up, set his pace, and hit cruise control.

Victory smile. He felt great. Did great. And it showed - not to make this about me, but I was jealous. I wanted to be in his body and feel that amazing feeling that can only come from hard work. I'm so proud of you baby, and inspired. Matt has signed up to do Run the Slam, which is four Utah Valley half marathons, and only 150 people can sign up for it. I have decided to get off my duff and join him on his last one (Hobble Creek), which is not till August (whew - not that jealous). Matt's time was 8:14 per mile!!!! For 13.1 of them - total time 1:47. Out of about 1,000 people he was #100!!

The kids were so excited for their 1 mile fun run.

Bell ran her little heart out

Jarom a few minutes behind - don't let that face fool you. He took it nice and easy.

I was one proud momma and wife behind the camera.

THE BEST!!

After the races we all gather to hear and cheer for the winners and to see if our names are called for lottery prizes. Jarom is rolling around the grass asking for the one millionth time if we think he will win a trophy. He had asked me before the race and I told him he just might if he tried real hard. That didn't happen. And before Matt has time to answer this last time we hear JAROM'S name being called. No one was more shocked than him. He won third place in his division. He was beaming ear to ear. Still is. Bella had a good cry, for she clearly won him. It wasn't until the times were posted that it all made sense. Bella came in 4th out of 36 girls. She was three seconds behind the girl who got third. She claims that was because she slowed down so I could take her picture. Jarom on the other hand, won third because he was third. There were only three 8-year old boys who ran. It was fun to see that the boy who got second was also really slow. It was probably a fun shock for him too. Even though Jarom didn't try his hardest he has been signing up for sports the last few years just to get a trophy. It has been a dream of his for a good while. It is really cute to see him talk about it. I was worried that he was going to be upset when we told him that there were only three 8-year olds but he was pretty pleased and said - wow, I was going to win no matter what! :)

Spring awakening

Stretching, mane in the breeze, feeling awesome..... time to teach the kids a little about the birds and the bees.

Thanksgiving Point has an animal farm that we have blogged about many a time. We couldn't go home without visiting all the new baby animals, and it just so happened that the farm was throwing them a birthday party with games, cake, and rides.

Cutest little billy goat. We all loved every single animal.

Sweet, gentle baby cows

The kids wanted to go on the pony/horse ride, but as we stood in line we watched one young girl try to get off her horse only to be kicked and stepped on. Being completely freaked out and feeling awful for watching and not being able to help I quickly marched the kids over to this very safe ride. Only......

Mister Spoiled had other plans.

We don't have it in us to pass up free cake

Spring livin

2011-05-02T17:57:00.000-07:00

In celebration of Earth Day

We splurged and bought a composter. We have been composting like mad over here and this new bad boy will help us make such nice soil so much quicker.

This guy claimed Daddy's old drill. A little scary how much he loved it.

But proved to be a good helper.

Provo Beach Resort. It is a new fun zone in the area. We walked through it one time in December and then back out again. The kids have been dying to go and actually do one of the many fun things they have. So this last Monday I told the kids if they cleaned REALLY WELL I would take them for a family date and let them pick one of the activities.

After a lot of the debate the three-story high rope course won.

Orion and I watched from below - Oey did not help clean. And speaking of cleaning, Jarom and Bella did AWESOME!! I was so impressed that we did the same thing today (without the reward) I think it will be a good Monday tradition. I'm not just talking about cleaning their rooms here, but vacuuming and scrubbing the floors - on hands and knees and making the bathrooms sparkle. I thought I was the only one who could do that. I am so pleased!!

Another new thing around here! The kids are NOW in charge of their library books that they pick and check out. I'm tired of paying late fees.

Jarom and Bella trying their hand at origami from the book that Jarom checked out.

Day at the park with our best friends.

Orion was so happy to find this mommy duck and her eggs. He screamed "EGGS!!!!!!!!!" when he found them. This poor momma was shivering when I came over to see what Oey meant by EGGS!!

Second best part of Nielsen's Grove park - the huge swing that turns as you swing. My greatest friends Michelle and Celeste, who both also have one little boy left at home and live just a couple doors down, are our perfect playmates. Riley, being the youngest, got the baby swing. Oey and Tommy did the spider and Katie (Celeste's sister-in-law who has Downs) got her own swing. The four of them all enjoy ducks and swinging and were all very sad to break up this party.

Sugar cookies for May Day

Showing off her favorite cookie. She later ran it over to give to her best friend.

My two big hooligan twins?

As I was checking out at Costco today the man behind me took my cart and said he would buy these two. The kids thought he was too funny. But Thing Number 1 was not pleased when he heard the man call them twins!! And insisted that they were much older and bigger than Thing Number 2. Thing Number 2 thought it made sense since they both have blue eyes and blue hair ... that brought smiles all around.

Zion Ponderosa

2011-04-28T22:32:00.000-07:00

This trip started like any other - LATE. Not too far into the drive I thought I was hearing a weird sound and woke up my honey. Didn't even take him a moment to hear - he knew it was a flat tire. And just his luck, it was snowing, cold and dark.

Can't tell by this picture but he had just had an horrendous time changing the tire in the freeze.

So so so so so glad to finally make it to the Zion Ponderosa cabin at 3 am!! The snow and rubber donut tire made for slow going and we had to take the long route around. A four-hour drive became seven. It only stopped snowing for about a 20 mile stretch between Cedar City and Virgin.

This is what lovebirds look like at three in the morning, so very tired but HAPPY!!

Enjoying the country cabin decor

of course - patchwork heart completes any cabin

The kids were so very happy to climb onto their huge cozy bunkbed - one that the whole family could easily cuddle up in. The kids went right to sleep while Matt and I got snuggly and read late into the morning. Seemed like the right thing to do.

Checking out the view in the morning

Which is ...

very snowy ...

from every angle. Which is just perfect when you have a cabin for the weekend!!

Eating hearty warm oatmeal

One would think my kids have never seen snow before. Orion walked the whole way to the lodge in the snow.

Next stop was to get our tire fixed. Lucky for us the closest town has us go right through Zion National Park.

Checkerboard Mesa

Matt helping Bella capture the beauty with her film camera

We saw lots of waterfalls that never exist in the summer (or most of the year)

The snow was like powdered sugar on the mountaintops down in the valley, highlighting everything.

This is the only picture of the bulk of the day. Sweet Jarom letting both of his siblings rest on him. We got our tire fixed and shopped to our hearts' delights at a thrift store. We had found out that Zion Ponderosa had a hot tub - but we didn't pack any bathing suits so we were going for secondhand ones. We really didn't need that excuse to go - we were going to go there anyway and we would have been swimming with or without the suits. :)

Back on the road to Zion. Very excited to leave the city and get back to our snowy mountains.

Forced Matt out of the car to get some incredible photos

Making it home

in time for the sunset. We threw on our suits and braved the 19-degree walk to the spa.

Bella and I both put a foot in and most definitely agreed that warm was not warm enough on such a cold day. The boys did not seem to mind - until the walk back.

Wet suits off - check. Cozy with my blanket - check. We rented a movie from Redbox and even bought some games and books while we were in town. So all we had to do was make the couchbed and have the whole night to play.

Dinner - PB&J without the J :)

No one argued when we said it was time for bed

Up with the sun, wanting to make the most of our last day

Jarom capturing signs of spring on our first hike (the Canyon Overlook trail) - Indian paintbrush

Shimmering icicle tree

Hugging the canyon wall

Climbing the warm sandstone

End of the trail... never looked so good

Matt and the kids on the freaky bridge

Trail to Weeping Rock, where another rare waterfall was flowing

Finished out our day looking for star fossils (crinoids) in Mt. Carmel Junction

It takes a trained eye

My kids are pros

Look closely and you will see this is a star graveyard

Love the ones with the extra details

The babiest stack of them

Stopped here for dinner but decided to move on, up beautiful Highway 89 and west through the Cedar Mountain area and ten-foot stacks of fresh snow (road plowed thankfully at 10,000 feet) and back out into Cedar City for dinner and then the home stretch.

Easter

2011-04-24T11:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning Easter egg hunt

Let the madness begin

Utterly overjoyed for getting his measley 5 eggs

The hunt might be over but they are still so excited for the rest of the weekend

We came home and started dying eggs.

For light blue we used red cabbage

Beets turned our eggs pinky-maroon

Red onion skins for pink

Yellow onion skins for yellow

Chopped carrots for a light orangey/yellow

Coffee for brown

Peppers for a peppy yellow

Boil the goods

And let the fun begin

We are soooo proud of our eggs. It took a lot more time. But it is only once a year and who wouldn't want to drag out the fun traditions? Our eggs are already brown so the colors are harder to see.

Easter Morning

Too excited and eager digging in their baskets to look up for the camera

Our eggs covered in treats, dates and prizes for the hunt

sittin pretty

looking high and low

Reading their loot out loud

Bella's favorite egg - one dollar

Jarom found the almighty five dollar egg. Jarom ended up with half the eggs and ALL the date eggs. So we have decided to let the whole family go on one of his ice cream dates and we also get to go to a play together.

All ready for Easter Sunday

Of course I really wanted a great picture of them all together, but when Matt showed me these I said these would not do.

Gathered them back together again for photo shoot #2

And it doesn't take long to realize Matt's pictures were as good as they were going to get

Jarom took this picture of Matt and I. I found this little homemade number at the thrift store and thought its pastel tulips were perfect for Easter.

My tulip kimono.

Church was about more than I could bear. Jarom gave the greatest talk on our ever-loving Redeemer. And Bella gave the scripture - John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

What a sweet spirit resides with us this Easter, knowing how loved and blessed we are. He lives.

Spoiler Alert

2011-04-23T10:52:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is but I have somehow managed to spoil my baby (see - he is four and I continue to call him a baby). It happens without thought. Maybe because, he is my baby or the fact that I feel guilty that the others were forced to grow up so quickly that I just want to treasure every single milestone with this last one. It's hard to let go, to let him grow. There are days when he tells me, "I will be a baby tomorrow." The poor kid. He wants to grow but knows how much I love to baby him. I knew. I did. That what I was doing was wrong. But I figured, how can too much love hurt him? But the problem is babying someone is not just love. It means he has not been taught normal things like picking up your toys, the word NO, and so on. Mine and Orion's lives were all fun and games until about two weeks ago when I realized what I have created - a walking, talking, spoiled monster (don't worry I still love him to pieces). But it has been a hard couple of weeks trying to undo all the damage. Poor kid thinks I'm being mean when I ask him to do an easy task. Something that Bella and Jarom could do at age one and for sure at age two. And now, here is Oey, crying and telling me he is going to run away because I asked him to put his toys away or to take his shoes into the house. And then the slap comes - "Mommy do it!" It is going to be a looooooooooong road to recovery. But I'm very hopeful and it helps that Matt is so proud of me for stepping up - more like waking up to what I have been doing.

Yesterday I had to call Poison Control!! We try to eat well-balanced meals so we don't give our kids vitamins. Well, we didn't. A couple weeks ago it was just Orion and me at Target. He spotted some superhero gummi vitamins and wanted them immediately. I didn't think there was much harm in getting him some so I looked it over and saw that they had gelatin in them, something we avoid. Plus those gummis looked just like candy. I didn't want him to think they were candy. So I found one that didn't have any gelatin and didn't look just like candy. He cried. They were not the ones he wanted. But being the good mom that I am I said, you can have these or none!! He took the bait. Long story short, we forgot about them until yesterday. I came out of the shower and noticed a chair moved over to the counter. Not a rare thing. I was curious what he had gotten to snack on. It took me a few times to understand him. It was a word he has never said before for a snack. Not pirate's booty, not trail mix, not pretzels .......... It dawned on me. VITAMINS!!! I asked him how many he had and he said a lot and that his tummy hurt. I rushed around looking for the bottle of vitamins. I found it on the couch. He had been popping them like candy and about 1/4 of them were gone. I don't know why he thought they were such a treat. I tried one and they are sooo gross. I definitely believed that his stomach hurt. Thank goodness after talking to the most helpful poison control guy we did the math and realized he should be okay.

Please wish me well on our journey. And I hope none of you have to call poison control and know the perfect amount to baby your baby.