Yesterday...

I realized how fragile life really is and that as much as I'd like to think I'm invincible...I am not. I also discovered (or finally will admit) that I am not the great driver that I always thought I was. :) Or maybe I just don't make the wisest decisions when I get behind the wheel.

Today...

I feel sooo grateful that my choice to make an illegal U-turn did not hurt anyone involved, but especially my 4 precious children that were with me in the car. I am so thankful that the men in the big huge Ford truck that hit me were so understanding and concerned for me and my children. I'm so grateful for the events that took place only a few minutes before my accident that helped me realize that my baby Lane was not properly buckled in his car seat. Given the fact that the impact was right where his car seat is, I truly feel that his little life was spared. I am thankful for good auto insurance and nice body shop workers who make me feel a little better about the situation. I am extremely grateful for my amazing husband who met me at the scene of the accident, helped settle my nerves, never said a condemning word to me, fixed our 'other' van so that we wouldn't have to rent a car, and overall was very concerned, supportive, and loving.

Today...

I am gathering my children even closer around me, relishing in their sweetness and goodness, and taking time just to be with them.

*Don't worry...I'm not taking time away from my kids to write this post...they are all having a much-needed rest.

I Miss My Sister

I miss my sister...a lot. We talk on the phone...a lot. I'm not sure why I'm missing her extra today; maybe it's because of the holiday season and we won't get to do any baking together this year, or go stocking stuffer shopping, or Christmas lights at the temple together. Maybe because I finished my Biology class today and felt badly that I didn't do very well on my last test and I need to talk it through with her and feel her support & motivation. Maybe it's because my house is a mess and every time it looks this way I'm reminded of what a great housekeeper she is and how I wish I could be like her. Maybe it's because I have a new baby and I want her to get to see him and cuddle him and for him to know his Aunt Milla. Maybe it's because I'm feeling the urge to try new recipes and oh, how I wish she were here to try them with me. Maybe it's because....I just miss her.

What Kind of Genius Does This?

Maddie wants some hot chocolate. I'm in the other room taking care of the baby. "Mom, how do you make hot chocolate again?" "First you put some water in a mug and put it in the microwave for a few seconds and then you put your chocolate in and stir it up. Or you could just get some hot water straight from the sink and use that instead." "Mom, is the hot water on the left or the right?" "It's on the left." "Mom, how long should I put the microwave on for?" "30 seconds. 3 - 0." "Owwww." Madlyn is crying. "Maddie, what's the matter?" "Mom, it's too hot." I check out her cup. It's one of those plastic sipper cups that has a straw built in. Ooh, she must have taken a big sip. I feel the outside of her cup. It doesn't feel too hot. I'm gonna try it out and see how hot it really is. Oh wow, that is really hot. "Mads, I'm sorry. That was too hot." Ouch. I think we both need some ice to suck on. Yea, that feels good. Ow, seriously. This hurts.

*About 19 hours have passed. Tongue still hurts. There are little tiny blisters on the tip. Still drinking ice water to help soothe it. Madlyn's tongue looks fine. Lesson learned.

What a Wonderful Weekend

My brother Colbran & his wife Stefanie hosted the family for Thanksgiving weekend in their brand new house (they had barely halfway moved in the night before). We all had a blast! Here are the gracious hosts at Texas Roadhouse (the bread is to DIE for).

My cute nephew Easton, who just turned 1 yesterday! He is such a cutie and it was fun to see him. Cade called him 'Doggie' because he was crawling on the floor. Apparently he hasn't really seen a baby crawling...weird, but so funny. I also saw so much resemblance between Easton & Cadeson; does anyone else see it?

My mom & Cole; unfortunately we didn't see too much of my parents this trip - my dad had to leave on Thanksgiving evening and my mom drove a little further on Friday to visit her family & also my brother's family who couldn't make it to Colb's house. Good thing we get to see them again tomorrow!!!

My sweet Lane enjoying the bouncy place we went to.

Lane did such a great job this whole trip and I again felt so blessed to have him in our family. What a trooper!

Maddie & Cole LOVIN' the big tall slide.

My sweet girl

This picture is so typical Cole...he cracks me up every day.

Cade is so funny...everytime I would pick up the camera, he would strategically place himself and pose. He is extremely fun to photograph.

Can't help but love this face!

It was soooo good to see everyone for such a relaxing weekend! We REALLY missed Buck, Ari, & Cardsen, and Milla, Brig, Layt, & Parks. We hope it's not too long 'til we get to see you!

Some of the highlights of the weekend (in no particular order):

playing Apples to Apples with the siblings (I pretty much stink at this game, but sooo fun - especially on little sleep...)

Texas Roadhouse (did I mention their bread is DELICIOUS?)

chatting in the kitchen (sorry I wasn't more help, girls)

quiet time with my hubbie in the car (Quinton & the kids slept almost the WHOLE way)

being inspired & motivated by my amazingly talented & beautiful sisters-in-law

lots of good food (thanks Stef, for the stuffing - yummm)

watching the kids play with their cousins (we miss you all and wish we could be closer)

surviving the freezing cold the first night (thanks Mom, for turning the thermostat to 68)

feeling grateful for the bounties of life that we enjoy every day...I am so blessed!

being amazed at my younger brothers & how responsible, mature, & grownup all of them are...and my kids absolutely adore you, Quint, Stant, and Linc

Thanks everyone for such a fun weekend. Can't wait till our next meeting...oh wait, that's tomorrow!! Yay!

Overheard...One End of a Phone Conversation

Madlyn: Grandma, we had a bus evacuation today at school.
(pause)
M: We had to get out in the back or the front of the bus.
(pause)
M: Yea, my chin was freaking out.
(pause)
M: My chin. My chin was freaking out.
(pause)
M: I was so scared that my chin was moving.

Something Cute

The other day I was driving down the freeway and came upon a couple riding a motorcycle. They looked a little rough -n- tough, as motorcycle couples sometimes do, but as I got right next to them, I saw the woman in the back reach up and put her arm around the man's waist in an affectionate way. The man immediately reached down and patted her leg. It was only a quick thing, but I could tell they were expressing some tender feelings. It was super cute.

Words of Wisdom from a Child and some other thoughts

So I kind of have a tiny bit of a temper. OK, so I know some of you are thinking that this is an understatement but just go with me on this one. I have good intentions, I really do, but I try so hard to be the nice girl for so long until one day it just all blows up in somebody's face. Unfortunately, these days my poor children are the lucky ones who get to deal with the improper channeling of my emotions. But today was different. I had been praying all day long for patience and for the ability to react with calmness and it was working. I even called Jeff to tell him how good I was doing. But when I got up from feeding Lane on the couch and turned to walk into the kitchen and saw Cade with his hands in a big container of salsa (which was gotten out of the fridge by his older sister - unbeknownst to me) I kind of lost it for a second. He had been enjoying his snack for a few minutes already and had thrown salsa across the kitchen several times and it was all over 3 chairs, the table, the floor, part of the wall, and some blinds. I got a little upset with Maddie but then quickly regrouped and started cleaning it up. But then when I heard Cade screaming in the living room and turned to see Cole and Cade pushing each other, all the while being basically on top of Lane, I really lost it. It was not my proudest moment, that is for sure. I will spare you the details but when I realized my good day was quickly becoming a bad one, Cole & Cade were taken to their beds until "Mommy could calm down"and be rational. I went back into the kitchen to clean up and Mads came into the kitchen to help. By then, I felt really stupid for getting so upset about nothing. Maddie started talking to me and this is about how it went:

M: Mom, I'm sorry I got the salsa out.
Me: Well, it's OK if you want to eat salsa, I just want you to ask first. And then please put it away when you're finished.
M: I will. But ya know, it's not the end of the world. (mind you, I have said those words to her dozens of times)
Me: You're right, Madlyn. It isn't. Sometimes Mommy gets a little too upset about things.
M: It doesn't matter how big of a mistake you make, it's not the end of the world.

I immediately felt the truth of her words and I was so happy to think that maybe she was internalizing that concept and realizing that no matter what mistakes we make, it doesn't diminish our value as a person, and we can always repent. After that, I went and made my amends with the boys and recommitted myself to working hard to be a more patient wife and mother.

Also while we were cleaning, Lane started to get fussy. Madlyn asked me,

"Do you want me to help clean up or help take care of Lane?"

She is such an amazing girl and is always so willing to help out. I almost feel like I ask her to do too much because she will actually do it. The other day we were making homemade applesauce (after a few days of her asking to do it) and it was taking a while for me to get the apples peeled, cored, and sliced. She said,

"I'm sorry this is taking so long, Mom. I really don't want you to get exhausted."

We are so blessed to have such a special little girl and I definitely don't feel good enough to be her mother - maybe it should have been the other way around.

I am proud to say that I held my temper for the rest of the day and even bedtime was successful. Now all 4 kids are in peaceful slumber and life is looking good. Wish me luck for tomorrow!!

Camera Incompetent

For those of you who were wondering, I am well aware of the fact that I have no clue what I am doing with a camera. First off, I have no natural ability or interest whatsoever in photography, and secondly, I have no training at all. I guess I did take a Humanities class at Ricks, where I learned to divide my photo window into thirds and to position things in one of the thirds. But that is absolutely the only thing I have ever learned when it comes to taking a picture, beyond pointing and clicking. So I sincerely apologize to all of you pros out there who might be stopping by to visit my blog. I have seen your blogs and I know the amazing things you do with your cameras and I'm sure it pains you to see my pathetic attempts to capture our lives on film.

With that being said, know that I am {now} completely comfortable with my incompetency in this area. I have come to the realization that while I do not possess the photography talent, there are other areas of expertise that I can claim. So, just in case you wanted to know, here's what I do instead of taking pictures:

I am a baker - I make a mean chocolate chip cookie, chicken pot pie, and homemade bread

I am a fast reader and I'm a good speller

I remember things: dates, phone numbers, trivia, etc.

I can sing

I can play the piano

I am a fast typer

In general, I can keep my house pretty clean

I am good at math

I like to write and have sometimes turned out some pretty decent words

I can shoot hoops with the best of them (including my brothers, dad, husband, and father-in-law, who still holds the record at his high school for most free throws in a row)

I am a mom (whether I'm good at it or not is irrelevant, I think there is talent in just the being)

So there you have it. Just in case you were wondering.

Thankful Thursday

I have been feeling overwhelmed lately with the many blessings that are abundant in our life. There are too many to list, but I'm going to at least document a few (in no particular order):

• our extended family members, who always give us so much love & support, even though they don't live near
• my mom, who came & stayed with us for a few days after Lane was born and basically saved my sanity by making meals, playing with the kids, cleaning my kitchen, and being my listening ear
  
• Jeff's mom, who has also helped us out by making meals, watching the kids so I can do homework (and also a ton of babysitting while I went to my testing at the hospital & other doctor's visits), cleaning my kitchen, and being on the lookout for decorations for my AWESOME Christmas tree that scares me to think about decorating by myself
• these cute dimples, because they help me to stop thinking about all the messes that have been, are currently, and will be created by this kid
  

• good friends & neighbors (including 2 who have recently had babies of their own) who have brought meals to our family - I have really been spoiled
• good friends & neighbors who have spent countless hours watching my kids while I have gone to doctor's appointments, hospital visits, and just so I could have a little bit of time alone to get things done
• these four amazing children who give me lots of reasons to smile & laugh every day
  

• my good health & speedy recovery - I feel really good and was actually thinking about going running this weekend (we'll see)
• a beautiful new baby boy, who is just an angel and we love him to pieces!
• Halloween is almost a year away; although I love the kickoff to the holiday season, it is not my favorite holiday by any stretch of the imagination and I feel badly that I don't have more fun dressing my kids up...but aren't they cute anyway?
  

• 

• my thoughtful, charming, amazing, hardworking husband: not only has he been dealing with the craziness of a household with a newborn, he finished studying for and took a huge professional exam 2 weeks ago, he goes to work early & often comes home late (today he put in about 15 hours), and he still manages to be the best dad to our children and the best husband to me
• the Gospel of Jesus Christ that makes it all worthwhile

HSM3

Yesterday evening, we took the kids to see High School Musical 3 at the Gateway IMAX theater. We were literally the ONLY ones in the theater, it was so nice. We had all 4 kids with us so it turned out to be a big blessing because by the end, Cole & especially Cade were a little restless. They ended up running up and down the stairs and down the rows for the last 15 minutes or so. Maddie loved the movie and even moved up to the 2nd row so she could be a little bit closer to the action. Little Lane did amazingly well and slept through the majority of the movie.

We didn't like this one as well as the 1st and 2nd, although it was still good. The music wasn't quite as catchy or fun but the costumes and choreography were way over the top. I left the theater wanting to do what I always want to do after watching musicals: learn how to really dance and dance with Jeff. Unfortunately, every time I ask him if it looks like 'so much fun', he answers with a resounding NO. One of these days I'll change his mind, I just know it!

Anyways, it was a fun night and I'm glad we got to take the kids - they definitely love going to the movies!

Tuesdays with Tressa

Here's the post where I let you into my mind for a few moments and you get to see, if even for a moment, what goes on in there. It promises to be boring for some of you, but it is a good outlet for me, so read on...or not.

We live in a scary world. And today has been a little more frightening than most. Over the entire course of this past year, the one recurring thought that I've had is: 'What happened in the scriptures when there was a ruler who ruled unrighteously?' The answer that I've come up with is this: 'Either the righteous become wicked or they are persecuted for their righteousness.' So, as one who strives hard to be counted among the righteous, I'm a little concerned about our newly elected leader.

I had a little conversation with my 15-year old brother today and I was impressed with him. He expressed his own concern about the election results and had some very mature insights about it all. We talked about how we will not be forsaken, no matter how difficult times may be, as long as we remain faithful.

A person could really fall into the 'depths of despair' about the world today. There is uncertainty and wickedness all around us. But...as we have always been admonished by the prophets and other Church leaders, we need to be optimistic and have faith in a Heavenly Father who loves us and will not leave us comfortless.

"To despair is to turn your back on God."
- Marilla Cuthbert, Anne of Green Gables

Our Little Man

You were worried that I wouldn't even be able to do two days in a row, huh? Well, here it is. Day 2 of posting, and you might even get lucky and get another post today...we'll have to see how lucky you really are.

So here's Lane this afternoon. He has really started to be alert and loves to watch everything that's going on around him, and let me tell you, that is a lot. The poor guy must be wondering what kind of place he came to :)

My little stud muffin...don't you just want to kiss those cheeks?

I was holding him today while he was sleeping and Maddie and I were just laughing at all of his funny faces he was making. He would do this huge grin, then he would crinkle his nose, then he would scowl, etc. etc. etc. It really was about the cutest thing ever.

I feel so blessed to have this precious little boy in our home. I am really trying to treasure these moments with him as a baby because I know that one of these days I will blink and he will be a 20 pound toddler...and the next time I blink he will be starting school...and on and on it will go.

We are so grateful that Lane seems to be healthy and thriving, although the little worries keep coming up. Lane is just the sweetest little angel boy and we all adore him! It is so fun to watch all 3 of the older kids try to take care of him; even Cadeson is learning how to be a good big brother. We just love him so much & are so thankful to have him in our family!!

Monday down Memory Lane

Since my posting has been a little sporadic lately and I haven't been good at getting pictures up, I have a new goal to see how many days in a row I can post something. This post won't have any pictures but I promise to post new pictures as soon as I get my camera batteries charged.

Today's chattering is dedicated to my wonderful husband Jeff. It was 8 years ago today that we officially started dating. On that night, Jeff picked me up from work and we went back to his house and watched Pure Country together. We realized on our first date that we had a mutual fondness for George Strait but I had never seen the movie so Jeff made it his duty to introduce it to me for the first time :) I thought it was very thoughtful and loved it.

It was that night that Jeff held my hand for the first time (he maintains his position that I had been playing hard-to-get on our other dates - I wasn't). After the movie, we sat in his parents' basement and talked for a few more hours, until 3 in the morning. It was all downhill from there. From that point on, we basically saw each other every day until we were married, and it has only gotten better since then.

I will say that I did not expect to fall so hard for Jeff. In fact, I didn't even want to go on the first date with him (it was a blind date so that had nothing to do with him personally) but I knew he was special the moment I saw him. And I am so glad that he felt the same way, even though I pretty much made a fool of myself at the end of our date when I said something stupid. (If you really want to know what I said, you'll have to ask me in person...it's a little too dumb to let the whole world see).

So, to the best friend and husband a girl could ask for: thanks for the best 8 years of my life and I'm looking forward to an eternity full of memories with you!!

Introducing...

LANE DAVIS LECHEMINANT
10/17/2008
10 LBS. 4 OZ.

Lane is such a relaxed little guy and it is so weird for me to have one that actually sleeps like a baby :)

The boy seriously slept ALL day long, I'm a little worried about tonight!

Sorry that I'm not a good photographer...I'm lucky to have the pictures I do take, I can't complain about the lack of quality!

We are home now and very happy to be here and excited to see how life will play out with #4!

Announcing...

Our little boy made his entrance into the world on Friday, October 17, 2008 at 2:20 pm!! He is such a sweet baby and we are so excited to have him in our family! Everything went well and I was so excited not to have a C-section.

OK, check out the weight on the scale!

Just in case you can't tell what it says, yes, he weighed 10 lbs. 4 oz. !! He is 22 3/4 inches long, head circumference of 14.3 inches, and chest of 15 inches. We were a little shocked at his size, especially with his acrobatic stints he's been doing this past week.

As of this moment, this little guy is still Baby Boy LeCheminant, but I will post later today with his name and some closer shots of his face. We are so excited and thanks everyone for all the calls, thoughts, and prayers! We appreciate all you do for us and love you all!

**in other news, my little brother Stanton got his mission call yesterday (it was an exciting day in our family) and he is going to the Bogota, Colombia South Mission, reporting in January. Congratulations Stanton! We are so proud of you!

Sunday Night at Our House

We had a very nice and relaxing evening last night. It went a little bit like this:

a whole lot of silliness from the kids (oh, and Dad & Grandpa L.)

some cute poses from all the kids

caramel apples made by Dad (I didn't get a picture but they were yummy!!!)


and one picture of a (still) pregnant lady

I actually was pleasantly surprised at how unfat my face looked - not bad for being 40 weeks pregnant, right?? It's a good thing there were no ankle shots (can anyone say cankle?)!!

Anyways, it was a good night and a great way to get my mind off of you know what :) Thanks to G & G Le.. for the yummy dinner and good company!

A Quick Vent

Many of you know the roller coaster this pregnancy has been for us; and apparently it's a long ride 'cause we're not done yet. Just a quick update on where we are at this point:

• the little guy is TRANSVERSE again (and I saw on ultrasound yesterday that he was head-down so he is just doing flips in there)
• I have to go to the hospital or doctor almost every day for the next week, including tomorrow
• my due date is tomorrow and I am finally feeling impatient for him to be born
  

I was doing so well this pregnancy and not feeling antsy about having the baby but it hit me today...I want him out!! I do not want to go to the hospital one more time without coming home with my baby; I want to hold him and snuggle him and make sure he is healthy. Oh please, please, let him be born this weekend!

*on a funny sidenote: tonight Jeff was helping Cole say his prayers and he said, "I'm thankful for the Gospel". Cole promptly repeated, "I'm thankful for the hospital." Yea, do you think I've been there often enough??

Where is the Time Going?

Can I just say that my Maddie girl is growing up way too quickly? I mean, seriously, look at the size of that bike. She is such a sweet girl and is learning so much; it is very fun to be her mom. Today when the boys went down for their nap she invited me to play a game of UNO with her. A month or so ago, Jeff & I taught her to play one night when she couldn't go to sleep, and so she wanted to play again. So we sat on the couch and played about 10 rounds of UNO together and it was so fun. She kept saying cute things like,

"We should play this more often."
"This is fun, huh?"
"This is good because we can sit down and we both get to relax." (She is always so mindful of me and my pregnant self)

While we were playing, I kept wondering when in the heck my baby girl got big enough to play games (that I actually enjoy) with me, and how did she learn to read the words on the cards anyways?

One more thing; Maddie makes me feel that I am raising myself. The older she gets, the more I realize she is JUST like I was when I was little. One of her favorite things is to get out her notebook full of paper and write things and do her 'homework'. She writes her name everywhere and I have to watch her like an eagle because I'm pretty sure my name is engraved several places in my parents' house still (and mine, since I have their old piano). She asked me the other day for a journal and I've hardly ever felt so proud :) She is a hypochondriac like I was, even though she hardly ever gets sick. She is such a little mother and likes to help her brothers ALL the time (the word bossy has occasionally been used to describe me). She has a hard time winding down at night and never wants to miss a party (she's been like this from the get-go). I must say though, for all of our similarities, Madlyn is instinctively more kind and unselfish than I have ever been. She is a great girl and I only hope that I am at an advantage as her mother because we're alike in so many ways.

Edification

Tonight I was able to go to the General Women's Broadcast and I loved it. I always do so I wasn't surprised but it definitely provided me with a much-needed boost. Here's my favorite quote from President Uchtdorf:

"You are spirit daughters of the most creative being in the universe."

OK, so I may have to change my view of myself as not being creative. :) I also liked how Sister Beck praised the women of the Church for what they are doing and then reminded us that there is always more we can do. Isn't that the truth?

What was your favorite part of the broadcast?

24, Natural Childbirth, and Engineers

So Jeff and I have been watching Season 2 of 24 for the past week or so. I know it's on like Season 7 now so we're a little behind but it's still been fun. It is not really my type of show at all but once I got into the story, I was hooked. So we watch a couple of episodes every night and we are enjoying the fact that we are enjoying something together. We don't usually agree on TV shows or movies but we're both totally into this one. The only problem is that every night I want to watch 'just one more'...totally addicting.

It's my 4th pregnancy and I have been building up my bravery to have natural childbirth, meaning specifically, no epidural. I am determined that if I am able to go into labor on my own, then this will be the time to try it. My baby has had other plans though and has been lying transverse for a while now. I have been extremely worried because I DO NOT want to have a C-section. I know, I know, it's not that big a deal but it's just not something that I want to deal with. Well, today I had a visit with the doc and the baby is now head-down, yay! I'm praying that he stays put until I can have him.

After my appointment this afternoon, I stopped by Jeff's office to pick him up. He was deep in conversation with a couple of colleagues and so I sat and waited for him to finish, about 10-15 minutes. They were looking at a graph and trying to interpret its exact meaning and see how it applied to the work they needed to do. I almost had to laugh when I heard one of them say this: "so what exactly is a car half-hour trying to tell me?" It wasn't my husband, by the way, but I sure thought it was pretty funny. Typical engineer...who else in the world even uses terms like car half-hour, let alone cares what it is trying to tell them??

I'm not sure why I laugh every time I see this...

bouquets of freshly sharpened pencils

Ahhh, back to school. I must admit I was kind of dreading this day because of all that is going on in our lives right now but as I logged into my Bio 100 class tonight (that's right, I have never taken Biology on a college level), I felt a little shiver of excitement run through me. I know it will be hard work (not the actual class, just the time spent doing it) but I am glad that I decided to go for it. It may be slow progress, but I am thrilled that I get to be working towards my goal of getting my college degree, even if it is only 1 or 2 classes at a time. And then when my kids are older, who knows? maybe a law degree is in my future :)

I've Been Thinking

A dangerous pasttime, I know. But it's one of the things I do best. So here are some of the things that have been going through my mind lately:

1. I love watching my children learn. It is so rewarding for me to watch Madlyn's manuscript improving every day as she practices writing more and more, and to listen to her read, and all the other fun stuff she's been learning. We have been practicing the letter sounds with Cole lately, especially the letter 'l' because he substitutes it with the letter 'w' sound, and he is finally getting it. Now he comes up to us and proudly says, 'Lincoln', or 'love', or anything that will show off his new skill. Cade is really learning to talk and it is absolutely amazing to me to hear him say new words every day. These young minds are so sharp and soak up learning like a sponge. Now if I were only a better mom and worked with them more...
2. I'm finally coming to the realization that there will be a baby at the end of this pregnancy and I'm excited. These past 8 months have been such a blur, I feel like it hasn't sunk in that we will actually be welcoming a new little guy into our family, but here he comes. I am feeling the usual discomfort that occurs at the end of a pregnancy but I do not feel rushed for him to come. (I think I've learned that they are more work once they come out...and I know that he won't stay in there forever, so what's the rush?) My only feelings of anxiousness stem from the fact that I am sick of worrying about him and not knowing for sure that he is healthy and sound. It will be good when he is born and we can see him and know. All of us are getting super excited to meet this little guy and put a name to his face!
3. Life is unpredictable and scary at times. As much as I would like to plan everything out, Plan A hardly ever happens. I'm learning to be flexible, prepare for the worst, and pray for the best. Through it all, I feel extremely blessed and lucky to have the husband and family that I have. I am often amazed at how much fun it is to plan and dream with my best friend and the one I love. So, even though it can be unpredictable and scary, life for me is happy and good.
   
4. It is very hard to be a perfect wife, mom, and homemaker. OK, so I am not professing in any way to be perfect but I must think that it is attainable because I keep trying to get there. And it's just not happening. I'm pretty sure I could spend my whole life taking care of the logistics of running my household (food, laundry, cleaning, bills, etc.) and never have any time for playing with the kids, working on church callings, having a hobby, exercising, spending time with Jeff, serving those around me, etc. Sometimes I feel like a hamster on his wheel, running and running but never getting anywhere. I'm trying to figure out some kind of balance before #4 comes and throws it all out of whack again. :)
5. I love being a domestic diva. Again, I'm not really proclaiming that I am one, but I sure like to try. It really makes me happy when I spend a day baking, cleaning, and doing other domestic duties. I know, I'm weird. Maybe someday I'll actually be good at it.

Happy Birthday to my Better Half!

To the best husband, dad, and kid-at-heart ever, I love you and hope your birthday is wonderful!

Overheard....

I've been having some interesting conversations with my kids since Maddie started school and has been exposed to a whole new world and Cole has a little more one-on-one time with Mommy. Indulge me while I share a few.

Madlyn: Mom, we have to cut out box tops (while frantically looking on a graham cracker box) and take them to school.
Me: OK. I'm pretty sure we have some we can cut out.
M: Mom, we really have to cut some out. If we don't give the school box tops, then our school won't get any money.
Me: All right. Let's have lunch and we can cut some out later.
M: No, let's find some right now. Raelyn brought box tops and Merrek brought box tops so we have to bring some box tops.
OK, so then she proceeded to look on every granola bar and cereal box (thank goodness I just got about 20 boxes of granola bars for free) and cut out every single box top. It was very exciting for her.
M(with a sigh of satisfaction when she was all finished): box tops are sooo cool.


Cole: Mom, I was snoring while I was resting.
Me: Oh, yeah?
C: Yeah, but I'm OK. It didn't hurt.


Me: Mads, you have some beautiful curls.
M: Thanks, Mom. I like them too.
(pause)
M: Mom, I like the way He made me.


Cole: Mommy?
Me: Yes, Cole?
C: I wuve you.
Me: I wuve you too, son.
C: Mom, you're silly. You say 'wuve'.

Country to the Core

One of the things that first attracted me to Jeff when I met him was the fact that he was a John Denver fan. I had never before met someone (outside of my family) who appreciated the same kind of music that I did and I was so excited. OK, I'm pretty sure I would have liked him even if he didn't like John Denver but it was definitely cool. We even had my parents sing their classic JD duet at our wedding reception...very fitting.


One of my favorite things now is listening to Jeff sing to the kids before they go to bed. While my songs of choice are usually Primary songs (or if we're having a rough time winding down, "I've Been Working on the Railroad"), Jeff opts for the sweet soothing tones of "Country Roads" or "Annie's Song". One night last month, while we were staying at my in-laws' while family was in town, we were both singing "Country Roads" to help the kids go to sleep. Pretty soon I noticed that Cole was quietly singing along and that Madlyn was mouthing the words and playing a little air guitar. :) Very funny, by the way. I was surprised that they both seemed to know all the words.


Since then, we have discovered that indeed, Madlyn & Cole both know all the words to "Country Roads" (at least the ones we taught them - we forgot some of them ourselves) and that they love to perform it. I don't have a digital video camera so you can't all see how stinkin' cute it is but if you want to come over, I'm sure they'd sing it for you.


P.S. I'm a little more proud of this accomplishment than the fact that they both can sing most of the words to Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire".

I Like to Look at Rainbows

Tonight during scripture study we were reading the end of Alma 5 and Alma's invitation to "Come and be baptized unto repentance, that ye also may be partakers of the fruit of the tree of life" sparked a discussion about baptism. Among other things, we talked about how old a child has to be before they can get baptized and we named some cousins and friends who have recently been baptized or will be soon. As I began telling the kids a little about my own baptism, it clicked: today is the 19th anniversary of my baptism into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Memories flooded back as we talked about who baptized me (my dad) and what it was like for me on my special day.

August 12, 1989: almost 3 weeks after my 8th birthday...I thought I would die having to wait so long. Back then, it was not uncommon for a child to get to be baptized on her exact birthday, but to have to wait 3 weeks was almost unheard of. Another unique thing about my baptism was that I was not the only one to get baptized that day in my ward (back then almost everyone got their own special baptism date). Austin Perkins (who had celebrated his bday back in June) and Mindy Jackson (who was a couple of weeks younger than me) were baptized that same night.

We were baptized in order of our age, so I was right in the middle. I got to wear a white baptism dress instead of the usual jumpsuit (I felt pretty lucky) and then I changed into a beautiful dress that my mom had made. I am not really good in the water and I was pretty scared about the whole situation but I remember thinking that it hadn't been that bad after all.

It was a special day for me and one I will never forget. The blessings that have stemmed from that decision to get baptized are more than I can even possibly try to enumerate or describe. I am so grateful for the Gospel in my life and for the strength and sustaining power that I receive from my testimony of Jesus Christ and the Plan of Salvation.

My Baby Is Growing Up!

So I sent Madlyn to Kindergarten this week - cry, cry. Actually, I pulled off the almost impossible feat (for a pregnant me at least) and didn't shed a single tear. She was super excited and couldn't go to sleep the night before and has been waking up bright & early every morning so that she can get ready to go. Unfortunately, it's been a little bit harder for Mom to get used to our new bedtime & wake-up time :) I still think I need to go to bed at 10:30 or later and then I can't hardly roll out of bed in the mornings. But so far we haven't been late (we were so close today though).

I am sooo upset because I took the cutest pictures of Madlyn on her first day before we left home and then with her friends Raelyn & Merrek who are in her class (yay!) and when I uploaded them onto my computer this morning, somehow it didn't work and they were deleted from my camera and I can't find them anywhere on the computer. Thanks to Cindy I have one so that you can all see how cute she looks with her backpack and new school clothes!

I can't believe my little baby is already in school - I have been having all kinds of emotions running through me. I think the biggest feeling - beyond being super excited for her - is that I haven't done enough to prepare her for the craziness of the world out there. I realize that I won't ever stop teaching her but I am a little paranoid I guess. She is a great girl though and I know she will do so well. Congratulations, Mads!

One Reason Why I Think it's Cool That I'm Turning Into My Mom

My mom is pretty much a genius in the kitchen. She can whip up the most delicious food at a moment's notice, and it doesn't seem to take her any time or effort at all (I know it does, Mom - but you sure do a good job of masking it). My kids talk about eating breakfast burritos at Grandma's house, complete with freshly homemade whole wheat tortillas & all the fixin's. Mind you, whenever she cooks, she has to prepare enough for her own 6 ravenous sons and 2 daughters and now all of their spouses and children. It is no small feat, that's for sure. My mom is famous in our small town for making a few things, one of which is her rolls. I have heard many references to Marla's Rolls and people wishing they could make rolls like Marla. My sister and I are among these hopefuls; somehow the roll-making gene was not passed on to us. It is amazing to watch my mom make rolls - she forms them so effortlessly and they turn out all soft and perfectly round...and not a single drop of dough sticks to her fingers while she's doing it. I remember the first time I made rolls as a married woman - I thought I was pretty cool and that my husband was gonna LOVE me - it was not nearly as easy as Mom made it look and I failed quite miserably. First of all, I can not shape them without getting at least half of the dough stuck in between my fingers, and then they are all misshapen and ugly. And most of the time, they don't rise at all so they just end up being tough and lumpy and really not desirable at all - nothing like the soft, melt-in-your-mouth Marla's Rolls.

I have tried everything and nothing has worked. I have even lived at different altitudes and tried several different recipes and ovens...nothing. I have resigned myself to the fact that I may never be able to make yummy rolls like Mom and that they may as well be called biscuits when I make them. (That's for you, Dad)! But yesterday, I had a breakthrough: I thought I was going to be taking dinner to a lady down the street so I decided to try the rolls again. I made bread too, which I can do, so I figured if the rolls didn't turn out then I'd just give her some bread with her dinner instead. What happened was magic. The dough just worked with my fingers and they just formed so effortlessly, with almost no help from me it seemed. They rose beautifully and baked to perfection. I tasted one later and felt like I was literally eating one of Marla's Rolls. Really, it was that good.

Now unfortunately, my sweet neighbor ended up having dinner with family so she did not get to sample this delightful culinary creation of mine but my family sure enjoyed them. In fact, they were dug into and halfway eaten before I had the thought to take a picture. I really hope that this was not a fluke occurrence and that I'll be able to make rolls this delicious again...thanks, Mom, for teaching me everything I know in the kitchen and everywhere else. I couldn't ask for a better mother.

P.S. If anyone wants the recipe for my mom's famous rolls, just look in any Better Homes & Gardens Cookbook...it's their basic roll recipe. Somehow, they just taste better when Marla makes them.

Somebody Help Me Out Here

So when I was pregnant with Cade, I got a great idea for a boy name: Willem. Jeff & I both have Williams in our family history but I liked this variation better. Jeff basically vetoed it from the get-go but I continued to ask other family members and friends for their opinion. The basic response I would get was "Hmmm. Willem? Really? Hmmm. No, I don't like it. Actually, it's kind of an ugly name." Of course, since we are expecting another boy and struggling a little in the name area, I decided to bring it up again. Again, shot down by my dear husband. And again, no one else seems to appreciate it either. I've given up hope of ever being able to use this awesome name but it would be nice if I could find someone out there who sees how cool it really is. Anyone?

Also, I like the name Crandall. It is a family name but I had never thought of it until I read it in my baby name book and I fell in love with it. Pretty sure it's one of Jeff's least favorite names ever (it's a toss-up between that and Willem) so it is definitely out as well. What's your take on this one?

Your Memory of Me

I thought this was such a cute idea that I had to do it.

Here are the directions:

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!


2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty cool (and funny) to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you. :) If you don't want to play on your blog, or if you don't have a blog, I'll leave my memory of you in my comments.

Happy Birthday Cole!

Tomorrow is my little boy's 3rd birthday - I can't believe it! The time has gone by so quickly, it is hard to believe he is 3 already! Cole has always been such a pleasant little guy, from the second he was born. He is very laid-back most of the time, but has a little stubborn streak in him that I can't quite figure out where it came from. Cole is a snuggler and often comes up to me and gives me a hug and says, "I love you." Most of the time he doesn't want to be a big boy but prefers to be a little boy and says that he "doesn't want to grow up." That is, unless I tell him that he can grow up to be big and strong like his dad and uncles. Here he is:

Cole at 1 year

Cole on his 2 yr. birthday

Cole at 3 years (almost)

Cole just barely learned how to ride his bike without training wheels (actually, he didn't really have to learn. Jeff said he just pushed him off once and he started going). He is really really good at it but the funny thing is, he is scared to death and thinks he's going to fall. So he will be pedaling down the street doing such a good job but yelling & crying the whole time. It is such a crack-up.

Another funny thing about Cole - the other day I accidentally called him 'sweet pea' and he quickly informed me that Madlyn is 'sweet pea', not him. I asked him what he wanted me to call him instead and he said "Big C Courtesy". That is what Jeff calls him, ya know, after the Courtesy Chevrolet commercials. I thought that was pretty funny. He is definitely a daddy's boy. Oh, and he only likes to be told that he is 'sharp', not handsome, because that is what Grandpa Davis called him one time and now every time I call him handsome he gets upset and says that he is not handsome, he is sharp.

Well, Happy Birthday Cole! We love you and are so happy you are in our family.

In the Summertime, When the Weather Gets Hot

So we all know it gets pretty stinkin' hot here in the Valley of the Sun. But it is just brutal when your home's air conditioning goes out in the middle of June! We came home on Saturday night about 9pm and our house was 83 degrees, which isn't terrible, but our thermostat was set to 78. Yuck! Long story short, by Sunday night our house was a whopping 95 degrees hot! And it was hot, I'm pretty sure that one or more of my family members were about to die. How did we survive? Well, we spent Sunday between our neighbor's house, church, and our hometeacher's house. We are so grateful to everyone that opened up their homes to us - it was no small thing. Sunday night we borrowed a portable air conditioning unit from our neighbors and we ALL slept in the living room with that and 3 fans blowing on us. Jeff & I slept on an air mattress in the middle of the floor with only a sheet for covers (like we needed anything) but when I climbed in bed after making sure that Cade was settled, I was surprised to find a wet sheet on top of me. You know it was hot since I was actually OK with sleeping under a wet sheet. Madlyn asked for one as well so Jeff got 3 pillowcases wet and put them over the kids. Ugh! It was a miserable beginning but by the morning, our living room had cooled to about 85 degrees so it was definitely more liveable. Thankfully, we were able to get the problem fixed by about 9:30 on Monday morning and I'm happy to say we are cool once again. Phew!

A Rare Occurrence

For those of you who wonder if I ever relax, let down my inhibitions, and just cut loose, let me clue you in on a little secret: it does happen...occasionally. (By the way, those of you who have ever seen my interpretative dancing already know this little tidbit). For example, last week I had the opportunity to take a little road trip. This is how it went:

"Love, love me do. You know I love you."

"I want to hold your ha-a-a-a-and."

"Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away...oh, I believe in yesterday."

"I don't care too much for money, and money can't buy me love. Can't buy me love, love."

"All you need is love!"

"Get back, Loretta!"

"Nah nah nah nah nah nah, nah nah nah, hey Jude. Hey Jude-y, Jude-y, Jude-y, Jude-y, Jude-y, Jude -y!"

That's right. It was three hours of me, the minivan, the open road, and these boys:

It was a fun 3 hours! It took me back to a similar trip 7 years ago when my brand-new fiance let me borrow his truck and all of his CDs to make the drive up to my parents' house. My CD of choice then was the same as this trip: Beatles 1. Good times.

I had the sad realization that the only time I ever let go and have a little fun like this is when I am absolutely and completely alone, usually driving. It makes me feel bad that no one else gets to see the beauty and charm of me singing at the top of my lungs and even bustin' a move every now and then. I'm not sure what happened to me when I became a grownup but I used to be a lot more fun. Hmmm, maybe it's time for a change.

Pregnancy Update

I haven't talked this pregnancy a whole lot but that is not because I am not excited. Here is a recent photo of our cute little guy - doesn't he look darling?
OK, this pregnancy has been a complete different experience (and in some ways harder) for me than any of my others. Actually, I have physically felt better than my other pregnancies and that is definitely a blessing. I think the Lord knew that I could not handle one more kidney infection...because I have been spared thus far. Whew! I started this pregnancy 10 pounds lighter than I started each of my other 3 and so I think the weight gain has taken longer to take its toll on my body. I am still feeling pretty comfortable and agile (OK, I don't know if I could ever be described as agile, but you know what I mean). For some odd reason, I have been in denial about my tummy getting bigger and have avoided wearing maternity clothes for as long as possible. But I think the bump is here to stay and now that it is starting to move inside and feel like a real baby, I am OK with it. I have yet to experience my usual astronomical swelling of my appendages but I'm sure it will be here soon, what with all the heat and all.

So physically I've been good, but...emotionally I have been all over the place. We have been pretty busy and have had lots of other stresses, so I think the pregnancy stress (eustress, not distress) just added to everything else. But one thing that has made this pregnancy a little more trying than usual is the fact that we got some unsettling results from our first ultrasound. The doctor called me a few weeks ago and let me know that the baby's bowel was brighter than it should be and that that has sometimes been associated with Down's syndrome or other problems. He was very reassuring in telling me that he has seen this before and it has only been indicative of other problems once and that there were other things wrong with that baby. He said that otherwise, our little boy looked extremely healthy and normal. BUT...of course we had to get the triple screening blood work done and a Level II Ultrasound. Logically, I wasn't extremely worried but it was difficult for my emotional side not to imagine the worst. I felt at peace about it all though and knew that even if our baby were to have any problems, he would still be just as precious and a blessing to our family. About 2 weeks ago, we got the results back from the triple screening test and everything was NORMAL. And then on Monday, we had our Level II Ultrasound. It was mostly fun because I wasn't really worried any more. At the end of our appointment, our technician told us that "the doctor probably won't call you with the results, hint hint". We feel pretty confident that our baby boy is normal and healthy and we are so grateful. We feel truly blessed and humbled by this whole experience. On a light note, we were able to get a few 3D shots of our little guy, which was so much fun! I had never seen 3D of any of my others so I was pretty excited!
It might be hard to make out, but the placenta is on the left and his right cheek is smashed up against it. Can you see his cute smile? I wonder if he will come out looking anything like this since he still has about 8 pounds to gain (he only weighs 1 lb. 5 oz. right now and I have big kids), but his smile is totally his daddy's.

So that's that. I really am soooo excited for this sweet baby to join our family. We have about 4 months to go still, which is good since I have plenty to keep me busy before then, but I can't wait to meet this precious child of God. I truly feel it a privilege to be a mother and only hope that I can teach my children to love their Heavenly Father and to desire to do good with their lives.

P.S. If you have ANY ideas for a name, please pass them on because we are seriously scrambling to find something that we like. We are pretty traditional but like unique too...nothing too trendy or common. If we can't think of anything else though, we just might have to name him Tuff. :)

Happy Father's Day!

I just wanted to give a quick shout-out to all the fathers in my life on their special day! First of all, I am very lucky in the wonderful father-in-law I have. Jim has always been so supportive of me and my little family. He is a great father to Jeff and has taught him well and is such an example of righteous leadership and self-discipline. He is a fun grandpa and it is easy to see he is well loved by all of his grandkids, even when he teases them! Jeff calls his dad "Jimmy" and it cracks me up to hear my kids say it sometimes too, although most often they call him Grandpa. I love his sense of humor and still laugh at all his jokes, even after almost 8 years! I even occasionally find myself cracking myself up with the same kind of jokes! My only complaint about my father-in-law is that I have never been given one of his famous nicknames!

My dad is about the best dad a girl could ever ask for. I always felt pretty special since I was the one who had blonde hair and blue eyes like him...everyone else (until Lincoln) was darker with brown eyes. I love my dad's spontaneity...I remember being woken up at 3 in the morning on my 17th birthday to see if I wanted to go fishing. Another birthday he woke me up to go hiking. I have such great memories of working with my dad in his business and I learned so much from him. "Verify, verify, verify" is only one of his timeless lessons. My dad is loved by all who know him. He was my bishop when I was in high school and I had several friends tell me how much they admired him; he was even described as an 'animal' after a priest camping trip. My kids love their "Grandpa Davis" and doing chores is so much more exciting with Grandpa...they get to use "hand workers" (Cole's words for gloves) and drive loaders and fun stuff like that.

Finally, to the father of my children: Jeff is such a great dad and our kids absolutely adore him. I love the fact that my children are also his children, that they are part of him and have some of his great personality and looks. Jeff is so unselfish with his time and is always so energetic when he gets home and excited to play with the kids. He is such a great teacher to them. I will never ever forget when he stood up tall and straight during scripture study one night and let the kids try to push him over...he was demonstrating what it meant to be 'steadfast and immovable'. Or the time he let them tie him up to illustrate that 'the Lord is bound' when we keep the commandments. The biggest indicator to me of how great a dad Jeff is is how much our kids love to be with him. Even Cade gets excited and says 'Dada' when he hears the lock in the door in the evening. Cole tells me often that he wants to 'spend some time with his Daddy'. And Madlyn relishes every second she gets to spend with her Dad.

To all you wonderful fathers, Happy Father's Day! I love you all!

What I Have Been Doing...

This is what happens when you lose your mind for a few days and neglect your garden:

Just kiddin'. My in-laws were out of town for a week and a half (when we got all that rain) and when they came home, this is what we found in their garden. So we cut it in half, shredded it, and used it in the yummy zucchini alfredo recipe Nicole shared a few weeks ago. By the way, half of this monster, with the seeds cut out, equaled 6 cups of shredded zucchini. The other half was put in the freezer to use later in bread or something.

I noticed on my sister's blog that the date of her last post is the same as mine...that was when I realized that I really needed to post something because she has the reputation of not blogging often enough. In fact, I was getting really bugged that she hadn't blogged anything in almost 3 weeks...oh yea, neither have I.

We have been quite busy. Jeff has been gone for the past 2 weeks during the week and that has been a little rough. I told him last night on the phone that 'that isn't a fair thing to do to a pregnant lady.' I don't mind doing all the work myself and putting the kids to bed myself (although by the end of the day I am ready for them to get a little shut-eye) but it has been harder on me emotionally than I ever thought. I'm sure it's just because I'm all topsy-turvy being pregnant and all, but I am not used to my emotions being so close to the surface all the time. I swear, someone offers to babysit for me and I start to cry!

I just finished my first class at BYU-Idaho...just barely submitted my last assignment about an hour ago, actually. It was the Orientation class and so it wasn't too demanding on my intellect but I really loved it! I feel so lucky to be able to attend classes from such a great university and I think my family will be blessed as well. I get to register for fall classes tomorrow...exciting! I still feel a little overwhelmed with the prospect, but so excited as well. I'm hoping for some great experiences!

Just a quick side note: Today I feel extremely grateful for the blessings that my family and I enjoy. It is so easy for me to get overwhelmed with the difficulties and worries that life brings but deep down, I know that we really do have it good. Life may not be the bed of roses I would like it to be, but I am immensely blessed to have an amazing family and the Gospel that makes it all worth while. And all in all, I know we are being taken care of and watched over. In the end, everything will be all right.

Now tell me what you really think...

A couple of weeks ago, I had to run to MCC to take care of some school stuff. When we finished, we needed to go to my in-laws' house to drop something off. It was lunchtime so I promised the kids we'd stop and get some lunch. I was adamant about Burger King because they have chicken nuggets on their $1 menu and because I'm a huge fan of the Whopper Jr. I knew exactly where I could find a BK on my way there so I was headed that way. Well, I made a turn down a residential street (not in my original plan, but Alma School didn't go as far north as I expected). Anyways, I'm driving down the street for almost a mile when Madlyn pipes up from the back, "Mom. I think. you might. be losing. control." Haha. Of course I knew exactly what I was doing so I proceeded to tell Madlyn that, "I promise you, I will drive straight to a Burger King. You'll see." We get to the intersection where BK is and whaddya know? Burger King has been changed into a Carl's Jr. I felt a little sheepish trying to explain to Maddie that "Burger King wasn't where Mommy thought it was and we'll have to go to another one." Thankfully she was very forgiving. I'm sure if it had been Jeff with me instead, he wouldn't have let it go so easily!

Recipes...mmm, mmm good!

I had a request a couple of weeks ago to post my recipe for cinnamon rolls, so here it is:

CINNAMON ROLLS
from the kitchen of Tressa LeCheminant
1. Mix the following ingredients together:
4 cups flour
1 ½ TBL yeast
2. Mix the following ingredients together, and then add to the flour mixture:
2 ½ cups hot water
2 tsp. salt
¼ - ½ cup sugar
¼ cup oil
3. Add 2 eggs and beat for 3 minutes.
4. Add approximately 3 more cups of flour and stir to form a sticky but stiff dough. Let rise in warm spot for 30-45 minutes.
5. Roll out into large rectangle and spread with melted butter and cinnamon sugar mixture. 6. Roll into log and cut into 1 ½ inch pieces. Place on cookie sheet and let rise until double. 7. Bake at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes.
8. Spread cream cheese frosting over top of cinnamon rolls while they are still warm from the oven. Enjoy!

Cinnamon/Sugar Mixture
1. Mix the following ingredients together:
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup white sugar
3 TBL cinnamon

Cream Cheese Frosting
1. Beat the following ingredients in medium bowl with electric mixer until smooth:
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
¼ cup stick margarine or butter, softened
2 tsp. milk
1 tsp. vanilla
2. Gradually beat in 4 cups powdered sugar on low speed, 1 cup at a time, until smooth and spreadable.

Here is the recipe for a pasta salad that I made for the music recital...of course I didn't take a picture, although it is definitely yummy! I will first post the original recipe and then tell you the little adjustments that I made for that salad that night.

Pasta Pesto Salad

1 lb. penne pasta (cooked al dente)

1 cup homemade buttermilk ranch dressing

8 ounces pesto sauce

1/2 cup feta cheese

1 small basket grape tomatoes

1 small pkg. baby spinach

3 grilled and cubed chicken breasts

OK, so I obviously didn't use the chicken for that night and it was still delicious. If you were using this salad as more of a main dish instead of a side, the chicken would be good. I also used the Kraft Meditteranean Crumbles cheese instead of the feta...it is cheaper and it is what I had on hand. It does have feta cheese in it, along with some other kinds of cheese. I've had it both ways and don't think it makes any difference. I accidentally used about 1 1/2-2 cups of ranch dressing instead of 1 and it didn't seem to be too overpowering in the end, although 1 cup would probably be just fine! I always thought this salad would be hard to make but it was actually very very easy to put together since you don't have to cut anything, unless you do the chicken. Enjoy!

What a Day...This is Going to be a Long One

OK, so let me start at the beginning. My big brother Houston is in dental school at the Arizona School of Dentistry in Mesa and he graduates in about a month. So he asked me to get some X-rays to see if I had any good cavities he could fill for his boards or mock boards. I have never had a cavity filled and to be completely honest, I haven't been to the dentist in about 8 years. So we thought I might have just the perfect one. Well, I had a perfect cavity but it was on a hard tooth (#15 - which is way back on the left hand side on the top) so he didn't want to use me for his real boards but he asked if I would come in for his mock boards, which are going on today and tomorrow. I agreed, although I admit, I was pretty nervous. For someone who has never had a cavity, it was a scary thing. I got to the school at 7:45 this morning and we got started. Man, it was intense! Almost every little thing he did I had to go to a different floor and 3 dentists had to examine it and grade it. I had a number assigned to me so that the graders could be completely impartial, not knowing who my dentist was. His assistant (who turned out to be his brother-in-law Trevor, who isn't a dental assistant at all) had to hang out with me all morning while I waited in line and got graded and all that good stuff. Quick side note: Trevor is married to Houston's wife Danielle's sister Sarah. And Trevor's sister Ariann is married to my other brother Buchanan. Family get-togethers are pretty fun with all of us! Back to the cavity: the worst part about it was when I had to go upstairs with my mouth pried open with a rubber dam and clamp and I couldn't swallow. By the time it was my turn to be examined, it was pretty bad. They were calling in the professional suction people because it was gross. Actually, it was more like, "She's drooling over here. Can we get some suction? Hey, can we get some suction? She's drooling." Anyways, I finally got out of there at noon and I think everything turned out just fine. Houston did a great job, even under all the pressure, and I felt very confident in his abilities as a dentist. I am so proud of him and his family for what they've accomplished. When I drove into the parking lot this morning, I saw a cute little sports car with Indiana plates (probably some rich kid whose dad is footing the bill), and it made me realize how difficult this road has been for Houston. He is married with 3 children and I know it hasn't been easy on any of them, but I am so excited for their future (out of school) and know he will do great!

On to the next part of my day: I had my appointment at 1:30 for my ultrasound for the baby. Ever since we found out we were pregnant, I have been debating whether or not I wanted to find out the gender before it was born. Apparently, it wasn't such a debate for Jeff because he informed me a few weeks ago, "The only way we're not finding out is if the baby doesn't cooperate." OK then. Actually, we have been surprised for the past 2 so I was willing to give him a turn. I was a little disappointed at first but as the day approached, I got more excited. WELL, we have a healthy little baby and I am so thankful for that. And, 'he' was all cooperation so I guess we'll be adding another beautiful boy to our family! I was a little surprised, I thought it would be a girl, but I immediately felt so much love for this little boy and we are so excited. The only problem: what in the world will we name him? I was hoping for a girl because I really don't have a clue what we will name another boy. As I was lying there on the table, I couldn't help but picture my 3 handsome missionaries and I feel it such a privilege to be mother to these wonderful boys.

Part 3 of my day: shopping with coupons. My mother-in-law went with me to a couple of stores and we got some smokin' deals: 4 packages of bacon for FREE, replacement blades for my Schick Quattro razors for $2 (yes - they normally cost about $9), Gogurts for $1/box, and some more cereal. Yesterday I got cereal for 25 cents a box and 4 packages of sausage for FREE. It gives me such a rush to save money like this and get my pantry stocked.

All right, if you made it this far, thanks for reading. I wish I had a good picture of my little 'boy' but I guess the umbilical cord was all wrapped in between his legs so it didn't turn out very well. It was a good day and I feel very blessed.