Tuesday, July 29, 2008
In Case You Were Wondering
Just in case you think I have totally forgotten about going private, I just wanted to let you all know we are still planning on doing it. I have lost my list of emails while we were moving and I am pretty sure I know what box they are in. So hopefully whenever our truck load of stuff decides to get here I am hoping to find my list and send out the invites to all of you. I will let you all know if I don't find it and I may need to collect them again.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Reunited and it Feels So Good....
This weekend me and the boys have been staying with my mom while Eric has been driving the car from Kentucky. Dean is away this weekend as well camping so it has been just the girls and two little boys but since they are three and under they let us get away with doing girly things. Staying up late watching chick flicks (last night was "Fools Gold" it was amusing but certainly glad I did not waste money going to the theater for it), going over house plans for my mom's new house and having hot dogs and corn on the cob for dinner. Nothing better in my opinion however Eric is not a fan of hot dogs so we never really grill them. However I think the best thing about this weekend for Lance at least was being reunited with his long lost friend his "car" he got for his birthday. It was too big to take with us so we kept it at my mom's house until we returned.
Watch out GQ here comes Lance Smith. Seriously this picture kills me you would think he was posing with his Porsche or something. What a weirdo, he has the male model look down I think.
Eric told me this gas pump was a waste of money, I am always glad to prove him wrong. Lance drives for about two seconds and then informs me it's time to fill up yet again.
But Wait What's This?
His cousin Carson got this motorized 4-wheeler for his birthday and Lance is quite taken with it too. He hasn't quite figured out that he doesn't need to drive it Flintstone style yet but that doesn't stop him from having fun.
What good little sharers...yeah right. Two seconds of this and the cousin rivalry kicks in and they are clamoring to switch back yet again. Cute boys!
Watch out GQ here comes Lance Smith. Seriously this picture kills me you would think he was posing with his Porsche or something. What a weirdo, he has the male model look down I think.
Eric told me this gas pump was a waste of money, I am always glad to prove him wrong. Lance drives for about two seconds and then informs me it's time to fill up yet again.
But Wait What's This?
His cousin Carson got this motorized 4-wheeler for his birthday and Lance is quite taken with it too. He hasn't quite figured out that he doesn't need to drive it Flintstone style yet but that doesn't stop him from having fun.
What good little sharers...yeah right. Two seconds of this and the cousin rivalry kicks in and they are clamoring to switch back yet again. Cute boys!
Pioneer Day
We spent Pioneer Day the 24th at the Roy Aquatic center with all of our favorite friends Granny O, Tam, Jill and the kids, my mom, Teri and Carson, Ash and Brevin. I have to apologize for my lack of great pictures. Sometimes I get into these moods where I feel like I spend my entire time trying to capture the moment with the camera that I am actually missing all the moments myself. So I kind of gave myself a break from being the photographer and just had fun with my boys. And fun was definitely had I tell you what.
I don't think I have mentioned yet that we have a full blown little walker on our hands. Just within the last few weeks Luke just took off and now does nothing but walking, you won't find any crawling done around here lately. There is nothing cuter than a new little walker but my goodness out comes the independence along with it. All of a sudden my sweet little baby is turning into somewhat of a terror. He is EVERYWHERE! Luckily my mom was around to help me out we took turns each taking a boy and I still felt like all I did was go haul Luke out of some kind of trouble. Diving headfirst into pools, scavenging for food on the floor, and helping himself to other's picnics were among his favorite activities.
I am loving Lance's good looking hair, it's the windblown, wet, long look. Obviously someone is in need of a haircut! Lance loved swimming this year, last year he would only sit on the side of the pool and scream bloody murder if anyone even splashed him. This year he had so much fun, I think I have discovered the less you bug your kids to join in on the fun the more willing they are to join in on their own.
I am loving Lance's good looking hair, it's the windblown, wet, long look. Obviously someone is in need of a haircut! Lance loved swimming this year, last year he would only sit on the side of the pool and scream bloody murder if anyone even splashed him. This year he had so much fun, I think I have discovered the less you bug your kids to join in on the fun the more willing they are to join in on their own.
The froggy slide was a big success with both my boys. Luke was a little impatient to wait in line, so he only went down a few times. But Lancey waited patiently every time he was making up for lost time last year I think.
My cute nephew Tanner is so darling with all the kids he is the oldest of all the little cousins and I can't think of a more fitting role for him. He is always playing, helping and loving the younger ones. Tanner can always get Lance to join in and have fun with everyone, here they are chasing each other with the noodles and whacking one another, such fun!
Swimming is such hard work, Lance needed to take a little breather and have himself a snack.
Swimming is such hard work, Lance needed to take a little breather and have himself a snack.
Later on we went to a BBQ at my sister Ashley's and had a little firework show for the kids. I was continuing with my picture taking strike and did not take one single picture. Though don't feel like you are missing out on anything excited. I wasn't about to take a hideous picture of myself with swim hair and no makeup holding Luke watching the fireworks and Lance took one look at the fireworks and remembered the dreaded sparkler incident on the 4th and locked himself inside the house with my mom until the show was over.
It was a great day and so fun being able to spend it with family in good old Utah. I absolutely love the history of the pioneers and what it meant for Utah as a part of our country. I can't get enough of church history and literature so this day always has special meaning for me as I am sure it does a lot of you. Later on that night as I was taking a shower after a long tiring day of swimming in my mom's double headed shower I was thinking about the pioneers and how they sacrificed so much for their beliefs. That shower was feeling so good I can't even imagine how the pioneers would have enjoyed one after their long journey across the plains let alone one hot day in the sun. We owe them so much and I am so grateful for the sacrifices they made and it was a wonderful day to celebrate all they did for the rest of us.
Pack Em' Up Move Em' Out
I am going through blog withdrawal this last week. I think this is the longest I have ever gone without updating...crazy! I guess that's what moving does to you. So I will apologize in advance for the bombarding of posts I am about to do, it's been a busy week.
My sweet five month pregnant sister Ashley came out to help me pack our house up and fly home with me while Eric drove my car out with his dad and brother. I was also lucky enough to have Eric's moms help with packing up and flying home as well so I have nothing to complain about. You all know how stressful moving is, especially across the country. I am so grateful for our wonderful families help, we had a hopping house for a few days, but we got everything done and arrived safely in Utah Wednesday evening. Eric and his dad and brother got in late last night from the LOONG 24 hour drive, thank goodness they split it up between two days. I have very mixed emotions about this whole moving thing. I am actually really homesick for Kentucky which is kinda crazy seeing how Utah is my home too. Last night I was at Smith's and it was comforting to see the Kroger symbol on all of their food, felt like a little piece of my Kentucky home. Though I will admit driving home from the airport with those beautiful Rocky Mountains as a backdrop was wonderful feeling, a sense of arrival. I am having trouble remembering all the details this week feels like one big jumbled mess, and I am sure you all don't really care about all my details so here are a few pictures of moving day.
The boys kept themselves plenty busy with all the packing going on. They were fascinated by all the boxes being packed up, furniture being taken apart, pictures wrapped in bubble wrap. I wonder what their little minds are thinking and how much they are actually understanding about this whole process.
Luke and Brevy playing in the dryer, Luke introduced Brevin to the joys of "helping"with laundry.
The slave driver! Nobody can say this pregnant girl was slacking on the job. I was always trying to talk her into taking little breaks and she would never go for it. It was always "well maybe when we finish the boys clothes, or how about after we wrap the mirrors then we can sit for five minutes". Mom you would have been proud she cracked the whip on us for three days straight. Ash what would I have done without you, this girl is the queen of organization. I would like to say she is "nesting" but in all honesty she is always like this.
Lance really appreciated getting to eat at McDonald's all week long. He thought it was really cool to make himself a little table on all the boxes. Doesn't take much to entertain kids.
Ash this picture is for you, we had a running joke all week long. Boys and their tools! Eric found out about this green tape stuff that you wrap around furniture to keep it stuck together. Between this and his drill all we heard all week long was "I think I am going to wrap this" or "I think I better take this apart". It was a special little bonus when he got to take something apart and wrap it, a little bit like Christmas morning for this big kid.
Lance also kept busy wrestling with Uncle Greg. Thank you Greg for keeping him out of our hair, he really loves you!
Sometimes I don't think it's fair that my five almost six month pregnant sister looks cuter than I do all the time, love this girl!
This is our darling little friend Noelle, it was hard saying goodbye to her. She lived across the street from us and was always over at our house playing with the boys and being good company for me. Sometimes it's hard having only babies to talk to, so even though she is only eight I always loved having her around to talk to, not to mention she is a built in babysitter. I don't know who will miss her more me or the boys.
This picture makes me want to cry, it was so hard saying goodbye to our little house. It's such an eerie feeling when everything is packed up and it no longer looks like a home. I walked around all the rooms remembering every little memory I have in them crying my little eyes out. Thank goodness for those memories though we will always have them to hold onto.
Kentucky we are already missing you!
My sweet five month pregnant sister Ashley came out to help me pack our house up and fly home with me while Eric drove my car out with his dad and brother. I was also lucky enough to have Eric's moms help with packing up and flying home as well so I have nothing to complain about. You all know how stressful moving is, especially across the country. I am so grateful for our wonderful families help, we had a hopping house for a few days, but we got everything done and arrived safely in Utah Wednesday evening. Eric and his dad and brother got in late last night from the LOONG 24 hour drive, thank goodness they split it up between two days. I have very mixed emotions about this whole moving thing. I am actually really homesick for Kentucky which is kinda crazy seeing how Utah is my home too. Last night I was at Smith's and it was comforting to see the Kroger symbol on all of their food, felt like a little piece of my Kentucky home. Though I will admit driving home from the airport with those beautiful Rocky Mountains as a backdrop was wonderful feeling, a sense of arrival. I am having trouble remembering all the details this week feels like one big jumbled mess, and I am sure you all don't really care about all my details so here are a few pictures of moving day.
The boys kept themselves plenty busy with all the packing going on. They were fascinated by all the boxes being packed up, furniture being taken apart, pictures wrapped in bubble wrap. I wonder what their little minds are thinking and how much they are actually understanding about this whole process.
Luke and Brevy playing in the dryer, Luke introduced Brevin to the joys of "helping"with laundry.
The slave driver! Nobody can say this pregnant girl was slacking on the job. I was always trying to talk her into taking little breaks and she would never go for it. It was always "well maybe when we finish the boys clothes, or how about after we wrap the mirrors then we can sit for five minutes". Mom you would have been proud she cracked the whip on us for three days straight. Ash what would I have done without you, this girl is the queen of organization. I would like to say she is "nesting" but in all honesty she is always like this.
Lance really appreciated getting to eat at McDonald's all week long. He thought it was really cool to make himself a little table on all the boxes. Doesn't take much to entertain kids.
Ash this picture is for you, we had a running joke all week long. Boys and their tools! Eric found out about this green tape stuff that you wrap around furniture to keep it stuck together. Between this and his drill all we heard all week long was "I think I am going to wrap this" or "I think I better take this apart". It was a special little bonus when he got to take something apart and wrap it, a little bit like Christmas morning for this big kid.
Lance also kept busy wrestling with Uncle Greg. Thank you Greg for keeping him out of our hair, he really loves you!
Sometimes I don't think it's fair that my five almost six month pregnant sister looks cuter than I do all the time, love this girl!
This is our darling little friend Noelle, it was hard saying goodbye to her. She lived across the street from us and was always over at our house playing with the boys and being good company for me. Sometimes it's hard having only babies to talk to, so even though she is only eight I always loved having her around to talk to, not to mention she is a built in babysitter. I don't know who will miss her more me or the boys.
This picture makes me want to cry, it was so hard saying goodbye to our little house. It's such an eerie feeling when everything is packed up and it no longer looks like a home. I walked around all the rooms remembering every little memory I have in them crying my little eyes out. Thank goodness for those memories though we will always have them to hold onto.
Kentucky we are already missing you!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Farewell Kentucky
I am not even sure how to start this post -- how do you say goodbye to such a sweet time in our lives? The place we have called home for the last three years, the ONLY home my children have ever known. Lance was only two months old when we first moved to Lexington and now he is three, where has the time gone? I cannot believe all that has changed in my life in the last three years we have been here. A few weeks ago Eric and I took a drive with the boys one Sunday afternoon and drove by all of our favorite spots in Kentucky. It's a sad feeling to know that these places that I have made memories in with my sweet family are no longer going to be familiar and a part of my daily life. I truly believe that we are able to call anywhere in this beautiful world "home". It's not about where you grew up or what you are used to. Home is a place where you make memories with your loved ones, those sweet tender moments when you feel like everything is right in your world. Home is being surrounded by your good husband and your beautiful children in the places that have meant something to you in your life and the lives of your children. I never want to forget the sweet memories we have made here because chances are very unlikely that we will be back to visit anytime soon. In order to not completely sob through this whole thing -- as I am already doing -- I thought I would do a list of the few things I will not miss about Kentucky and then end of with what I will miss the most.
Miss? Not so much!
University of Kentucky Clinic
Oh my goodness I can't tell you how glad I am to never have to set foot in this place again. In just the last eighteen months I have taken the boys --mostly Luke -- to 97 appointments in this building. It's somewhat nice because every single thing Luke has had to deal with in being premature has been located in this building. His pediatrician, NICU grad clinic, eye clinic, hearing and speech, and the ENT, every one of them has been here. So we are very familiar with this building -- a little too familiar. There were some weeks when we averaged four appointments in one week! Not to mention they charge you for parking here, and I wonder where all of my money goes?
University of Kentucky Hospital
I think it is safe to say neither Luke nor I will miss this home away from home. Between my being on bed rest here for five weeks and Luke being in the NICU for ten weeks, we are all too familiar with this lovely place too. However, I will be forever grateful to this wonderful facility because it gave me my son. How can I ever repay those who fought for my little child's life, they have the BEST nurses and doctors in the world here. I may be a little biased but how can I not be, I have a living breathing child and a large part of that is due to the wonderful people working in that building, we are forever grateful to them!
University of Kentucky College of Law
Eric's home away from home! I am pretty sure the poor boy spent more time in this building than he ever cared to! It was almost a surreal moment for him on his last day there when he realized he would never set foot in there again. However, again we owe his education to this place. So while he will definitely not miss going there, we are grateful for the wonderful education he received and the opportunity to live out his dream of becoming a lawyer. (Hmm, maybe I will miss these places more than I think I will.)
Red lights
Okay now this one I know I will not miss, Lexington's red lights are like no other I swear. I once sat at a red light for six minutes...INSANE! All you Kentucky gals will understand -- the stoplight on Man O' War and Alumni, you might as well just put your car in park and take a little nap. Utah is known for it's bad drivers, I can't decide what's worse long lights or bad drivers. We will see I guess.
MISS? Absolutely!
Hartland Park
Our all time favorite park is only two minutes from our house. Well within walking distance if I could ever get my act together and actually walk instead of drive. So many happy memories in this park; lazy afternoons with Holly and Ashley (I miss you girls), a few family home evening trips, picnic in the park, my one month of ambition when I decided I should get up early and go walking (go ahead and laugh that idea only lasted a month).
Kroger
I know, how is it possible to miss a grocery store, but I will like crazy. Again this is only two minutes from our house right next to the park. I love this little Kroger -- I always see friends there, it's perfect for late night runs for milk or icecream (which was pretty much a nightly occurence). But my most favorite thing about it is I go there so often I know all the workers. One in particular always gives the boys treats and balloons, she knows both their names and always asks how they are doing. It's been my little Kroger and I will miss it.
Donut Days
The very best donuts you have ever tasted. It even beats Krispy Kreme and Tasty's Donuts (for you Utahns who know what Tasty's is). It's just a little bakery downtown by the school, and they are so good. We are getting a dozen on Monday morning and probably another dozen for moving day on Tuesday.
Jalapeno's
We will be forever grateful to the Carltons for their recommendation of the best Mexican food around three years ago-- Jalapeno's. Oh "Tacos Al Carbon," you will be missed! Eric and I get the exact same thing every time we go and it is amazing! Tomorrow night here we come! My sister Ashley just got here today and we will be going to dinner there tomorrow one last time. So sad, there is nothing quite like it!
Kentucky Horse Farms
These pictures pretty much speak for themselves, have you ever seen anything more gorgeous? One of our favorite activities is to take drives all over the rolling green hills with the white fences surrounding the gorgeous stables. It's pretty sad when you realize the horses around here our living better than you are. It's good to be a horse in Kentucky!
Hartland
Hartland is the subdivision across from ours. What I should have done is taken a picture of our subdivision as well to compare the two. I have loved where we live but I can't tell you the amount of times I have daydreamed about turning right instead of left at the four way stop leading into our subdivsion. Hartland has the most gorgeous houses I have ever seen. Eric refused to let me take a picture of one of them, so mean. They are so unique and gorgeous, I really don't know how to describe them. Once again you Kentucky girls will know what I am talking about. When my mom was staying with us taking care of Lance when I was in the hospital over Christmas she would always drive home from visiting me through Hartland. It would always cheer her and Lance up, they are beautiful every day, but at Christmas they are spectacular!
Last but most certainly not least, our little home.
This little place, above all, holds the most memories for me. Of course there are the big events: bringing Luke home, Eric graduating, birthdays, but more importantly it's those every day occurences that mean the most. Making Saturday morning pancakes, decorating christmas trees, hot chocolate on cold winter mornings, visiting neighbors, watching my children play, late night talks after the kids are in bed. I know wherever we go, these will be daily occurences as well but I have so loved this little house. Like Dorothy says "there is no place like home".
I never would have believed three years ago when I first laid eyes on what was to be my new life how fully I would enjoy it and grow to love it and how much I will truly miss it. We have grown as a family here, we came to rely on each other. It's such a comfort to realize I don't need my mom, sisters, grandparents or Utah for that matter to survive. The only thing we need as a family is each other, what a huge lesson to learn. We have spent probably the hardest year of my life here in Kentucky but also some of the sweetest years of my life and it will always hold a warm memory in my heart and be a place that I can call "HOME".
Miss? Not so much!
University of Kentucky Clinic
Oh my goodness I can't tell you how glad I am to never have to set foot in this place again. In just the last eighteen months I have taken the boys --mostly Luke -- to 97 appointments in this building. It's somewhat nice because every single thing Luke has had to deal with in being premature has been located in this building. His pediatrician, NICU grad clinic, eye clinic, hearing and speech, and the ENT, every one of them has been here. So we are very familiar with this building -- a little too familiar. There were some weeks when we averaged four appointments in one week! Not to mention they charge you for parking here, and I wonder where all of my money goes?
University of Kentucky Hospital
I think it is safe to say neither Luke nor I will miss this home away from home. Between my being on bed rest here for five weeks and Luke being in the NICU for ten weeks, we are all too familiar with this lovely place too. However, I will be forever grateful to this wonderful facility because it gave me my son. How can I ever repay those who fought for my little child's life, they have the BEST nurses and doctors in the world here. I may be a little biased but how can I not be, I have a living breathing child and a large part of that is due to the wonderful people working in that building, we are forever grateful to them!
University of Kentucky College of Law
Eric's home away from home! I am pretty sure the poor boy spent more time in this building than he ever cared to! It was almost a surreal moment for him on his last day there when he realized he would never set foot in there again. However, again we owe his education to this place. So while he will definitely not miss going there, we are grateful for the wonderful education he received and the opportunity to live out his dream of becoming a lawyer. (Hmm, maybe I will miss these places more than I think I will.)
Red lights
Okay now this one I know I will not miss, Lexington's red lights are like no other I swear. I once sat at a red light for six minutes...INSANE! All you Kentucky gals will understand -- the stoplight on Man O' War and Alumni, you might as well just put your car in park and take a little nap. Utah is known for it's bad drivers, I can't decide what's worse long lights or bad drivers. We will see I guess.
MISS? Absolutely!
Hartland Park
Our all time favorite park is only two minutes from our house. Well within walking distance if I could ever get my act together and actually walk instead of drive. So many happy memories in this park; lazy afternoons with Holly and Ashley (I miss you girls), a few family home evening trips, picnic in the park, my one month of ambition when I decided I should get up early and go walking (go ahead and laugh that idea only lasted a month).
Kroger
I know, how is it possible to miss a grocery store, but I will like crazy. Again this is only two minutes from our house right next to the park. I love this little Kroger -- I always see friends there, it's perfect for late night runs for milk or icecream (which was pretty much a nightly occurence). But my most favorite thing about it is I go there so often I know all the workers. One in particular always gives the boys treats and balloons, she knows both their names and always asks how they are doing. It's been my little Kroger and I will miss it.
Donut Days
The very best donuts you have ever tasted. It even beats Krispy Kreme and Tasty's Donuts (for you Utahns who know what Tasty's is). It's just a little bakery downtown by the school, and they are so good. We are getting a dozen on Monday morning and probably another dozen for moving day on Tuesday.
Jalapeno's
We will be forever grateful to the Carltons for their recommendation of the best Mexican food around three years ago-- Jalapeno's. Oh "Tacos Al Carbon," you will be missed! Eric and I get the exact same thing every time we go and it is amazing! Tomorrow night here we come! My sister Ashley just got here today and we will be going to dinner there tomorrow one last time. So sad, there is nothing quite like it!
Kentucky Horse Farms
These pictures pretty much speak for themselves, have you ever seen anything more gorgeous? One of our favorite activities is to take drives all over the rolling green hills with the white fences surrounding the gorgeous stables. It's pretty sad when you realize the horses around here our living better than you are. It's good to be a horse in Kentucky!
Hartland
Hartland is the subdivision across from ours. What I should have done is taken a picture of our subdivision as well to compare the two. I have loved where we live but I can't tell you the amount of times I have daydreamed about turning right instead of left at the four way stop leading into our subdivsion. Hartland has the most gorgeous houses I have ever seen. Eric refused to let me take a picture of one of them, so mean. They are so unique and gorgeous, I really don't know how to describe them. Once again you Kentucky girls will know what I am talking about. When my mom was staying with us taking care of Lance when I was in the hospital over Christmas she would always drive home from visiting me through Hartland. It would always cheer her and Lance up, they are beautiful every day, but at Christmas they are spectacular!
Last but most certainly not least, our little home.
This little place, above all, holds the most memories for me. Of course there are the big events: bringing Luke home, Eric graduating, birthdays, but more importantly it's those every day occurences that mean the most. Making Saturday morning pancakes, decorating christmas trees, hot chocolate on cold winter mornings, visiting neighbors, watching my children play, late night talks after the kids are in bed. I know wherever we go, these will be daily occurences as well but I have so loved this little house. Like Dorothy says "there is no place like home".
I never would have believed three years ago when I first laid eyes on what was to be my new life how fully I would enjoy it and grow to love it and how much I will truly miss it. We have grown as a family here, we came to rely on each other. It's such a comfort to realize I don't need my mom, sisters, grandparents or Utah for that matter to survive. The only thing we need as a family is each other, what a huge lesson to learn. We have spent probably the hardest year of my life here in Kentucky but also some of the sweetest years of my life and it will always hold a warm memory in my heart and be a place that I can call "HOME".
Thursday, July 17, 2008
All About My Firstborn
My friend Marissa just put this on her blog and it was so much fun to read so it looked like fun to do. I have been packing our house up all day and am about ready to scream so I am welcoming any break from that. After all blogging is always funner than packing.
Baby's full name?
Lance Eric Smith
Why did you choose that specific name?
Eric and I are not really into giving our kids unique names. We like pretty basic common names but with the last name Smith we have to be somewhat more exciting than say Jenny for example. Honestly can my name be more boring. No offense mom and dad I like Jenny and I like Smith but together there not to exciting. We both really liked Lance and we knew that's what his name would be when we found out he was a boy.
Were you married at the time?
Of course, two and a half years.
What were your reactions?
Jenny--Unbelievably excited we had been trying for close to a year and I was in shock that it had finally happened. Not to mention we had just found out Teri my sister was pregnant two weeks before so I was thrilled to be pregnant at the same time as her with both of us expecting our first babies.
Eric--Definitely excited but I think he was pretty shocked too and nervous. I think guys have a tendency to worry more about providing for their families than us girls do. At least that's how it is with us.
How old were you?
21 when we found out we were pregnant and 22 when we had him.
How did you find out you were pregnant?
I was expecting that maybe I was but kept putting off taking a test because I had a few false alarms before and wanted to be sure this time was for real before I went and spent ten dollars on one. My silly sister took it upon herself to buy me one she was certain that I was but as a consolation prize if I wasn't she bought me a Pepsi too--funny girl. She danced around outside the bathroom door and grabbed it from me before I could even see it, she was the first one to see that little pink line and all I remember after that was my two sisters, my mom and me doing a lot of dancing around and screaming.
Who did you tell first?
Well my mom and sisters were there so obviously they were first. However Eric got to my mom's house not two minutes later so of course he was next. I honestly didn't dare to think I was, if I had thought about it I would have insisted on waiting for Eric but oh well.
Did you want to find out the sex?
Yes without question. I can see how it would be fun for it to be a surprise but I have no self control, if there is a way to tell then you bet I want to know.
Due date?
June 28th
Did you deliver early or late?
Lance was three weeks early which I was actually pretty happy about. Those last few weeks are miserable.
Did you have any morning sickness?
None, whatsoever. I actually wanted to have at least a little, I worried so much when I was pregnant. I always thought something was wrong, because I never once felt even a little nauseous.
What did you crave?
Peanut butter, particularly peanut butter ice cream. Ever since then I have been hooked on the stuff, I could eat it every night.
Who irritated you the most?
I feel so bad about this but the people I worked with drove me insane. Not all of them just a few, and I know it was all my fault. I was seriously such a grouch with them, I had such a short fuse. I can remember rolling my eyes all the time. Which is so rude of me especially because at the time I was the lead teller at a credit union, so I know I was so rude to all of my tellers. I really really feel bad about it those hormones went wild there for awhile.
What was your first child's sex?
A boy!
Did you have any complications in your pregnancy?
A few when I was 30 weeks pregnant I was driving home late at night and fell asleep driving and crossed oncoming traffic through a few fences, trees and finally hit a huge tree that woke me up. The air bag went off and did the most damage to my face. I couldn't see out of my left eye for like a month, but thank goodness Lance was okay. I had to stay in the hospital for a few days to be sure but it was mostly my face that got the hit. Then I was induced at 37 weeks because I got toxemia really bad so my doctor decided Lance was ready to come.
How many hours were you in labor?
They started me at 2:30 in the afternoon and Lance was born at 5:55 am.
Who drove me to the hospital?
My mom she had to take me to all of my appointments because my car was totalled and I still could not see all that great out of my one eye. So I had an appointment that day and my doctor told me to go straight to the hospital so she took me and Eric met us there.
Who watched?
Eric and my mom
Was it natural or C-section?
Natural
Did you take medicine to ease the pain?
Oh yeah, the greatest invention ever is those epidurals. It was smooth sailing after I got that.
How much did your child weigh?
4 pounds 15 0z, he was a little guy but had no trouble at all came home the same day I did. We always joke that Luke, Lance and I combined just barley total Eric's whopping ten pounds at birth. I was only 4 lbs 3 oz and Luke was of course only 2 lbs 6 oz.
Did your child have any complications?
Nope none at all, he was perfect. I pray that one day I will be able to experience that again. It amazes me how much you take for granted when everything goes smoothly.
What hospital did you deliver at?
Ogden Regional in Ogden Utah.
How old is your first born now?
Just a little over three years old and still as darling as ever. WE LOVE YOU LANCE!
This was fun to do, it's so enjoyable remembering all the details of your little one's birth and a great thing to have for posterity. I hope one day my children will look back on our blog book and enjoy reading it as much as I have enjoyed writing it.
Back to packing now, oh the joy!
Baby's full name?
Lance Eric Smith
Why did you choose that specific name?
Eric and I are not really into giving our kids unique names. We like pretty basic common names but with the last name Smith we have to be somewhat more exciting than say Jenny for example. Honestly can my name be more boring. No offense mom and dad I like Jenny and I like Smith but together there not to exciting. We both really liked Lance and we knew that's what his name would be when we found out he was a boy.
Were you married at the time?
Of course, two and a half years.
What were your reactions?
Jenny--Unbelievably excited we had been trying for close to a year and I was in shock that it had finally happened. Not to mention we had just found out Teri my sister was pregnant two weeks before so I was thrilled to be pregnant at the same time as her with both of us expecting our first babies.
Eric--Definitely excited but I think he was pretty shocked too and nervous. I think guys have a tendency to worry more about providing for their families than us girls do. At least that's how it is with us.
How old were you?
21 when we found out we were pregnant and 22 when we had him.
How did you find out you were pregnant?
I was expecting that maybe I was but kept putting off taking a test because I had a few false alarms before and wanted to be sure this time was for real before I went and spent ten dollars on one. My silly sister took it upon herself to buy me one she was certain that I was but as a consolation prize if I wasn't she bought me a Pepsi too--funny girl. She danced around outside the bathroom door and grabbed it from me before I could even see it, she was the first one to see that little pink line and all I remember after that was my two sisters, my mom and me doing a lot of dancing around and screaming.
Who did you tell first?
Well my mom and sisters were there so obviously they were first. However Eric got to my mom's house not two minutes later so of course he was next. I honestly didn't dare to think I was, if I had thought about it I would have insisted on waiting for Eric but oh well.
Did you want to find out the sex?
Yes without question. I can see how it would be fun for it to be a surprise but I have no self control, if there is a way to tell then you bet I want to know.
Due date?
June 28th
Did you deliver early or late?
Lance was three weeks early which I was actually pretty happy about. Those last few weeks are miserable.
Did you have any morning sickness?
None, whatsoever. I actually wanted to have at least a little, I worried so much when I was pregnant. I always thought something was wrong, because I never once felt even a little nauseous.
What did you crave?
Peanut butter, particularly peanut butter ice cream. Ever since then I have been hooked on the stuff, I could eat it every night.
Who irritated you the most?
I feel so bad about this but the people I worked with drove me insane. Not all of them just a few, and I know it was all my fault. I was seriously such a grouch with them, I had such a short fuse. I can remember rolling my eyes all the time. Which is so rude of me especially because at the time I was the lead teller at a credit union, so I know I was so rude to all of my tellers. I really really feel bad about it those hormones went wild there for awhile.
What was your first child's sex?
A boy!
Did you have any complications in your pregnancy?
A few when I was 30 weeks pregnant I was driving home late at night and fell asleep driving and crossed oncoming traffic through a few fences, trees and finally hit a huge tree that woke me up. The air bag went off and did the most damage to my face. I couldn't see out of my left eye for like a month, but thank goodness Lance was okay. I had to stay in the hospital for a few days to be sure but it was mostly my face that got the hit. Then I was induced at 37 weeks because I got toxemia really bad so my doctor decided Lance was ready to come.
How many hours were you in labor?
They started me at 2:30 in the afternoon and Lance was born at 5:55 am.
Who drove me to the hospital?
My mom she had to take me to all of my appointments because my car was totalled and I still could not see all that great out of my one eye. So I had an appointment that day and my doctor told me to go straight to the hospital so she took me and Eric met us there.
Who watched?
Eric and my mom
Was it natural or C-section?
Natural
Did you take medicine to ease the pain?
Oh yeah, the greatest invention ever is those epidurals. It was smooth sailing after I got that.
How much did your child weigh?
4 pounds 15 0z, he was a little guy but had no trouble at all came home the same day I did. We always joke that Luke, Lance and I combined just barley total Eric's whopping ten pounds at birth. I was only 4 lbs 3 oz and Luke was of course only 2 lbs 6 oz.
Did your child have any complications?
Nope none at all, he was perfect. I pray that one day I will be able to experience that again. It amazes me how much you take for granted when everything goes smoothly.
What hospital did you deliver at?
Ogden Regional in Ogden Utah.
How old is your first born now?
Just a little over three years old and still as darling as ever. WE LOVE YOU LANCE!
This was fun to do, it's so enjoyable remembering all the details of your little one's birth and a great thing to have for posterity. I hope one day my children will look back on our blog book and enjoy reading it as much as I have enjoyed writing it.
Back to packing now, oh the joy!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Honduran FHE
We decided this family needed a little culture history for family home evening last night. So seeing how Eric served his mission in Tegucigalpa, Honduras we thought it would be fun for him to make an authentic Honduran dinner. What was so cute about this was it was totally his idea, he planned the entire menu, cooked and cleaned up. I think this boy has been holding out on me who knew he was such a good cook. He makes a killer lasagna, and grilled cheeses and grills like no other but that is pretty much the extent of his cooking experience. So I have to say I was a little apprehensive about this little plan of his for one thing my idea of food from Honduras is rice and beans which are really not my favorite. However, it was fantastic! I am thinking he needs a turn in the rotation of cooking dinner, maybe just once a week what do you think dear?
The little darling hard at work!
The finished product....
Menu:
Fried Plantains
Baleadas
with crema
Now if you are like me and have no idea what any of that means let me explain. Plantains are in the banana family, they look like a giant banana however they taste more like a potato, starchy if you know what I mean. He sliced these into strips then fried them up in oil. They reminded me of fries only better. Baleadas are kind of like a burrito, he made his own tortillas which in my opinion made the meal. They were to die for, I don't know if I can ever go back to eating a regular tortilla. He then filled them with re fried beans and the crema sauce. Crema is the white stuff you see on my plate, it's made from whipping creme and sour cream mixed together. We dipped both the plantains and the baleadas in the crema. Luke really enjoyed culture night he ate like a pig, but then Luke enjoys anything you put in front of him. Lance is claiming he enjoyed it but all he ate was grapes. I guess for now we will let him continue thinking grapes are from Honduras. Thanks Eric it was a fun night, we always like to pull out the good old mission pictures and see that beautiful pink toilet. So glad I am not brave enough to go on a mission to a third world country. I admire all of those who are, and I am so glad Eric was able to teach our boys a little about another part of the world. Eric and I have a standing joke about where our boys will serve missions. My guess is Boise, Idaho and Eric's is Micro Indonesia, let's pray for a little something in between.
The little darling hard at work!
The finished product....
Menu:
Fried Plantains
Baleadas
with crema
Now if you are like me and have no idea what any of that means let me explain. Plantains are in the banana family, they look like a giant banana however they taste more like a potato, starchy if you know what I mean. He sliced these into strips then fried them up in oil. They reminded me of fries only better. Baleadas are kind of like a burrito, he made his own tortillas which in my opinion made the meal. They were to die for, I don't know if I can ever go back to eating a regular tortilla. He then filled them with re fried beans and the crema sauce. Crema is the white stuff you see on my plate, it's made from whipping creme and sour cream mixed together. We dipped both the plantains and the baleadas in the crema. Luke really enjoyed culture night he ate like a pig, but then Luke enjoys anything you put in front of him. Lance is claiming he enjoyed it but all he ate was grapes. I guess for now we will let him continue thinking grapes are from Honduras. Thanks Eric it was a fun night, we always like to pull out the good old mission pictures and see that beautiful pink toilet. So glad I am not brave enough to go on a mission to a third world country. I admire all of those who are, and I am so glad Eric was able to teach our boys a little about another part of the world. Eric and I have a standing joke about where our boys will serve missions. My guess is Boise, Idaho and Eric's is Micro Indonesia, let's pray for a little something in between.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Daddy Fashion
Here's what happens when you ask daddy to get Lance dressed........
Exhibit A....Last night I went across the street to visit a neighbor that is not doing so well so Eric volunteered to get the boys in the bath tub while I was gone. I came home to this little getup on Lance; pajamas with not only socks but Easter socks mind you. A little blue, yellow and green argyle socks always go with dino pajamas in my opinion. I am such a mean mom I laughed when I first saw Lance and hurt the poor kids feelings. He went and hid behind the couch shoving his socks down. I felt so bad, what a mean mom thwarting his creativity or more like Eric's creativity Lance was just an innocent accomplice. Eric's claiming this one was a joke to see what I would say but I have my
doubts.
Exhibit B... Now if this example doesn't have Eric written all over it I don't know what does. Those of you who know Eric best will get a kick out of this story. You all remember the post mission days of modesty Eric. My sisters and I got hounded left and right for the things we wore and none of it was immodest. However if your sleeves were not to your elbows and your shirt to your knees you were being immodest in the little returned missionaries eyes. Which was in a way cute, but was mostly really annoying. I even got told my shoes had to high of heels and I should think about getting some low to the ground ones.
So back to yesterday Eric was getting Lance changed after church and I was getting Luke ready. I gave Eric Lance's clothes ironed and everything all he had to do was take off his church clothes and put him in this little tank top and shorts. Lance was wearing an undershirt under his church clothes. In order to be a little more modest Eric thought he would leave the t shirt on and put the tank top on OVER the undershirt, sleeves and all still showing. This tank top is not meant to have anything under it, the picture isn't doing this justice, Lancey looked ridiculous. I am pretty sure this was a joke too, because Eric again started laughing the second I walked into the room but you can never be to sure. I think he really does believe this look is better.
I have to throw this picture in here even though it has nothing to do with fashion. It was a happy day in the Smith household today. I think I have mentioned how Kentucky does a program where kids under five get a free book in the mail once a month sponsored by Dolly Parton. Lance's all time favorite book is "Llama llama red pajama". I have had a few friends tell me that there is a sequel out to llama llama but I have not been able to find it. So imagine our surprise when da da da "Llama llama mad at mama" came in the mail today! Oh boy Lance was ecstatic he can't figure out what he did to be so lucky to have TWO llama books. We know what we are reading tonight as our bedtime story!
Exhibit A....Last night I went across the street to visit a neighbor that is not doing so well so Eric volunteered to get the boys in the bath tub while I was gone. I came home to this little getup on Lance; pajamas with not only socks but Easter socks mind you. A little blue, yellow and green argyle socks always go with dino pajamas in my opinion. I am such a mean mom I laughed when I first saw Lance and hurt the poor kids feelings. He went and hid behind the couch shoving his socks down. I felt so bad, what a mean mom thwarting his creativity or more like Eric's creativity Lance was just an innocent accomplice. Eric's claiming this one was a joke to see what I would say but I have my
doubts.
Exhibit B... Now if this example doesn't have Eric written all over it I don't know what does. Those of you who know Eric best will get a kick out of this story. You all remember the post mission days of modesty Eric. My sisters and I got hounded left and right for the things we wore and none of it was immodest. However if your sleeves were not to your elbows and your shirt to your knees you were being immodest in the little returned missionaries eyes. Which was in a way cute, but was mostly really annoying. I even got told my shoes had to high of heels and I should think about getting some low to the ground ones.
So back to yesterday Eric was getting Lance changed after church and I was getting Luke ready. I gave Eric Lance's clothes ironed and everything all he had to do was take off his church clothes and put him in this little tank top and shorts. Lance was wearing an undershirt under his church clothes. In order to be a little more modest Eric thought he would leave the t shirt on and put the tank top on OVER the undershirt, sleeves and all still showing. This tank top is not meant to have anything under it, the picture isn't doing this justice, Lancey looked ridiculous. I am pretty sure this was a joke too, because Eric again started laughing the second I walked into the room but you can never be to sure. I think he really does believe this look is better.
I have to throw this picture in here even though it has nothing to do with fashion. It was a happy day in the Smith household today. I think I have mentioned how Kentucky does a program where kids under five get a free book in the mail once a month sponsored by Dolly Parton. Lance's all time favorite book is "Llama llama red pajama". I have had a few friends tell me that there is a sequel out to llama llama but I have not been able to find it. So imagine our surprise when da da da "Llama llama mad at mama" came in the mail today! Oh boy Lance was ecstatic he can't figure out what he did to be so lucky to have TWO llama books. We know what we are reading tonight as our bedtime story!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Memory Lane
Thanks Randy and Ashley Davis for this post. It looks like it could be a fun one. I agree with Ashley some of you I have known for a really long time and some for a short time so it will be fun to see what memory stands out to you.
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, even a first impression. Just anything that you remember!
2. Next re-post these instructions on your own blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. If you leave a memory about me I will assume you want to play the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you. If you don't have a blog I will leave a memory of you in my comments or if you don't want to play on your blog I will leave one in my comments.
Please play it will be fun!
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, even a first impression. Just anything that you remember!
2. Next re-post these instructions on your own blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. If you leave a memory about me I will assume you want to play the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you. If you don't have a blog I will leave a memory of you in my comments or if you don't want to play on your blog I will leave one in my comments.
Please play it will be fun!
Ride Em' Bullseye
All of you mother's of Buzz Lightyear fans will understand this story. Yesterday we were outside playing and Lance kept trying to talk Luke into getting on his bike with him. For the life of me I could not figure out why he is not usually one to share his best toys with Luke. I thought maybe he wanted Luke's walker he was playing with and was trying to con him into switching. When they were both seated up there Lance got this huge smile on his face and said "look mommy bullseye". There is a part at the end of Toy Story 2 where Buzz and Woody ride Bullseye together and go save Jessie. He was a little concerned they didn't have a Jessie and tried to talk me into getting on their with them, yeah right. What would it be like to have Buzz Lightyear forever on your mind, oh to be three!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Eating Bon Bons
Okay so I wasn't exactly eating bon bons but you all know the saying stay at home moms get sometimes of what do you do all day sit and eat bon bons. Now we all know that is so not true but I will be the first to admit sometimes it is down right pleasant being a stay at home mom. I totally should have been cleaning today but it was a beautiful day and the boys wanted to swim in their pool (that I successfully converted from being a bed). Sometimes you just have to give in and hope that the cleaning gets done tomorrow.
I made the mistake of just plopping Luke right in instead of letting him warm up to the idea, he screamed his head off at first. So I got him out and he sat wrapped in his towel just staring into the pool for about 20 minutes before he decided to give it another try.
I was a little surprised Lance had so much fun last year he wouldn't go near a pool, and sadly this year we have yet to go swimming. I don't particularly enjoy swimming so I don't really take my kids all that often. We will have to see how he does in an actual pool and not just 5 inches of water in a piece of blue plastic.
Thinking, thinking, thinking......maybe that looks fun.
Here's where eating bon bons comes in; my little spot. An umbrella for shade, a coke, a good book and two hours of kids playing in a pool confined, what an afternoon!
I think they have got the wrong idea.
Lance spent about ten minutes actually playing in the pool and the other hour and fifty minutes was spent inspecting the pool for grass and dirt then tossing it out with a bucket. Every few minutes he would inform me the pool "was clean".
I made the mistake of just plopping Luke right in instead of letting him warm up to the idea, he screamed his head off at first. So I got him out and he sat wrapped in his towel just staring into the pool for about 20 minutes before he decided to give it another try.
I was a little surprised Lance had so much fun last year he wouldn't go near a pool, and sadly this year we have yet to go swimming. I don't particularly enjoy swimming so I don't really take my kids all that often. We will have to see how he does in an actual pool and not just 5 inches of water in a piece of blue plastic.
Thinking, thinking, thinking......maybe that looks fun.
Here's where eating bon bons comes in; my little spot. An umbrella for shade, a coke, a good book and two hours of kids playing in a pool confined, what an afternoon!
I think they have got the wrong idea.
Lance spent about ten minutes actually playing in the pool and the other hour and fifty minutes was spent inspecting the pool for grass and dirt then tossing it out with a bucket. Every few minutes he would inform me the pool "was clean".
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Home Tag
Okay Ash I can guarantee my house isn't nearly as clean and cute as yours but here you go. This is a fun tag, the rules are you have to take pictures of these items in your house just as they are, no cleaning up allowed. Now just to clarify some of you make think I cheated I have a bad little habit of wandering through my house all the time picking up items that don't belong. So it may look not cluttered but I can promise you it is not clean. That has yet to happen this week hopefully tomorrow I will get on top of that. We have my wonderful mom to thank for this habit all growing up if we even left our backpacks out we heard about it. My sisters and I are now all anal about keeping our houses clutter free. However they both kill me in the actual deep cleaning department, their houses are immaculate all the time.
1. Kitchen Sink
The dishwasher was running and I wasn't about to hand wash three lunch bowls, thank goodness for modern conveniences.
2. Favorite Room
This question confused me I wasn't sure if they meant my favorite room to be in or my favorite looking room. So I put both up here. Our family room is by far my favorite room to be in this is where we do everything as a family. You will notice all of the kids toys around, rarely do they play in their room they are always out here in the family room. Plus I think this room just has a cozy little feel about it, I love our couches my dad bought me as a wedding present.
Just another angle of our family room.
The boys bedroom is my favorite room as far as how it is decorated. We have an all boy theme going on. When Lance was first born it was a fire truck theme. Now it has evolved into a sports, cars, firetruck themes. Basically anything goes, which is very convenient for me if I like something boy related I buy it no trying to match it to anything.
And another angle!
Messiest Room
Okay I am almost embarrassed to show this room, it is a disaster. However keep in mind, we are moving in two weeks. So you can see my box collection, plus Eric is going through all the papers on his desk there trying to decide what to throw away and what not. All my scrapbook supplies are jammed in here it's basically a free for all. Anything we don't know what to do with we shove into this room. We even have a spare bed in here for company.
What are my kids doing right now?
Ahhh, got to love nap time, when else is there time to blog. Look closely at Lance he is asleep but his eyes are half open, it's kinda freaky looking. He does this all time, gets it from his mother I sleep with my eyes half open as well.
Inside/Outside of the Fridge
We LOVE pictures on our fridge, I am always updating them to my most recent favorites. Lance loves to stand up there while I make dinner and point out all of our family members.
Hallelujah we went grocery shopping yesterday for once my fridge is stocked.
Toilet
I am with everyone else why does anyone want to see a picture of your toilet, kinda strange.
Favorite Shoes
I bought some new dress shoes for Eric's brothers wedding a few months ago, and I LOVE them. I have purposely worn dresses that will go with brown the last few weeks to church just so I can wear them. Too bad Sunday only comes around once a week, they don't exactly go with jeans and t-shirts.
Closet
This is my summer closet that is actually our coat closet, sad huh. Our closets in our house are really small, so Eric uses our bedroom closet all for himself and because I am a girl and have way too many clothes I use the coat closet and the spare bedroom closet. My dream is to one day have a walk in that will fit everything.
Self Portrait
The best I could do all alone.
Dream vacation
Not sure what this has to do with a house tag but what the heck. I would love to go to Italy. I have the today show on every day while I am getting ready and ever since the Olympics were in Italy I have wanted to go. Mostly because they were always making such good food and showing all the good restaurants. My idea of a good vacation is lots of good food.
Alright I tag whoever has not done this yet and wants too.
1. Kitchen Sink
The dishwasher was running and I wasn't about to hand wash three lunch bowls, thank goodness for modern conveniences.
2. Favorite Room
This question confused me I wasn't sure if they meant my favorite room to be in or my favorite looking room. So I put both up here. Our family room is by far my favorite room to be in this is where we do everything as a family. You will notice all of the kids toys around, rarely do they play in their room they are always out here in the family room. Plus I think this room just has a cozy little feel about it, I love our couches my dad bought me as a wedding present.
Just another angle of our family room.
The boys bedroom is my favorite room as far as how it is decorated. We have an all boy theme going on. When Lance was first born it was a fire truck theme. Now it has evolved into a sports, cars, firetruck themes. Basically anything goes, which is very convenient for me if I like something boy related I buy it no trying to match it to anything.
And another angle!
Messiest Room
Okay I am almost embarrassed to show this room, it is a disaster. However keep in mind, we are moving in two weeks. So you can see my box collection, plus Eric is going through all the papers on his desk there trying to decide what to throw away and what not. All my scrapbook supplies are jammed in here it's basically a free for all. Anything we don't know what to do with we shove into this room. We even have a spare bed in here for company.
What are my kids doing right now?
Ahhh, got to love nap time, when else is there time to blog. Look closely at Lance he is asleep but his eyes are half open, it's kinda freaky looking. He does this all time, gets it from his mother I sleep with my eyes half open as well.
Inside/Outside of the Fridge
We LOVE pictures on our fridge, I am always updating them to my most recent favorites. Lance loves to stand up there while I make dinner and point out all of our family members.
Hallelujah we went grocery shopping yesterday for once my fridge is stocked.
Toilet
I am with everyone else why does anyone want to see a picture of your toilet, kinda strange.
Favorite Shoes
I bought some new dress shoes for Eric's brothers wedding a few months ago, and I LOVE them. I have purposely worn dresses that will go with brown the last few weeks to church just so I can wear them. Too bad Sunday only comes around once a week, they don't exactly go with jeans and t-shirts.
Closet
This is my summer closet that is actually our coat closet, sad huh. Our closets in our house are really small, so Eric uses our bedroom closet all for himself and because I am a girl and have way too many clothes I use the coat closet and the spare bedroom closet. My dream is to one day have a walk in that will fit everything.
Self Portrait
The best I could do all alone.
Dream vacation
Not sure what this has to do with a house tag but what the heck. I would love to go to Italy. I have the today show on every day while I am getting ready and ever since the Olympics were in Italy I have wanted to go. Mostly because they were always making such good food and showing all the good restaurants. My idea of a good vacation is lots of good food.
Alright I tag whoever has not done this yet and wants too.
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