Giant Spirits, Little Bodies

This morning started off early, with a 8:00am baseball game. Boston and Aubrie did great! Aubrie was on first base, but apparently thought she was in charge of the whole Right Field! She is a go getter, always trying to be in control of everything. Boston had a good time on third, and tried chasing many people down the baseline towards home. They both had some good hits, and seemed to enjoy themselves. I'm glad they get to be on this team together, and with friends from church.

After the game, we came home while Ethan and Ben headed out to T-ball. The house was messy and I got grumpy. I was upstairs for quite awhile tiding up and getting Sophia dressed. I could tell she was cleaning up downstairs to surprise me. I decided I would play dumb and go downstairs and act shocked. When I went downstairs, I was shocked! She had cleaned the WHOLE downstairs just like I would had. The dishes were done, the counters cleared and clean, the floors swept, the granite floor tile cleaned, the toys organized, and couch pillows and blankets where they should be. Tears quickly came, realizing what an amazing little girl I have. Not that I didn't think she was amazing, but realizing how caring and mature she can be to think of me and do all of that. I told her when I finished cleaning upstairs we would go to Walmart to get some diapers for her new Baby Alive. As I was getting close to being finished she noticed that Ben had taken my car. I told her we would have to wait. About 5 minutes later I find her outside in Ben's car, with Sophia buckled in a car seat (she had gotten out of the garage and put in Ben's car). I was so amazed at how determined she was. Then I realized that she had taken Ben's golf clubs out of the car, by herself, and carried them into the garage! Nothing can stop her! It was today that I realized more than ever how Aubrie is far beyond her years, in so many things, and how I needed to treat her older than I do. She is such a giant spirit in such a little body. I truly believe that about the children of today. Just yesterday, as I was rocking Sophia, the thought came to me on how frustrating it much be for Sophia to be so limited with her little body and lack of language skills. I even said that to her, (weird I know) but saying it out loud got a calming response from her. I think I'm being taught something with these two experiences.

One last semi-related experience of the day. As I was coming back from Walmart, I looked back to find Boston and Sophia holding hands. I quickly went for my camera, devastated to find that I didn't have it in my purse. It was one of the most tender moments of the day, and made my heart melt seeing the sweet connection between them. As I looked closer at them holding hands, I noticed it was the hand where Boston wears his CTR ring. It couldn't be more appropriate!

An "Eventful" Friday

So my pants seemed to be fitting a little tighter lately. I'm not sure if the water setting on the wash was hot, and shrank them? Or......maybe it has something to do with the fact that these are on my counter and they started like this and now look like this!!! This wasn't the first time filling them up, either!!!! The Holiday Junk Food Express has officially started, and the only way to combat it is exercise. I have been so incredibly lazy, when it comes to exercise. Getting up early is not appealing. Working out while Sophia is napping, instead of doing something else, isn't either. Nigh time I just want to lay down and relax. So what to do? I finally decided to sacrifice a little sleep for a little health. Friday Erin, Kari and I met at 6:15 AM for a nice hike around the mountain, by my house. Amazingly it wasn't hard to get up, and it felt GREAT! I look forward to more! Hopefully it stays that way!

After my hike, I rushed home to get the kids ready for school, before I headed out the door for Aubrie's parent/teacher conference. Aubrie did great this quarter, making the Principals list. It is a nice change having her at a school where she feels accomplished. Anyway, my Mom watched the kids for the short time while we were there. In that short time, Ethan threw up all over the couch and down the hallway to the bathroom, and Sophia slipped and fell in it (reminds me of a scene from "Cheaper by the Dozen"). In 15 minutes, all that happened, and my Mom still managed to have the floor and couch cleaned up and Aubrie bathed! Go, Super Grandma! I then sat with Ethan for over an hour, while he continued to be sick. He was being so good about it all, even though it was so pathetic. I told him he was being so brave, like a firefighter, and that we should go get him a costume when he's not sick anymore. Ethan finally fell asleep around 9:30 and once I got Sophia down, I joined them. Guess the early morning got to me!
Around 12:30, Ethan showed up down stairs (he was sleeping that whole time) fully dressed and saying he was ready to get the costume. That kid was probably dreaming about it the whole time. Luckily he was feeling much better; enough to eat 4 scrambled eggs and some toast.
The day ended with a late dinner with the Lorenzana's, a round of goofy golf, and cards!

Getting Creative and a Quest for a Purse!

So I guess today is "Ethan" day on my blog! Lately, Ethan has been putting our computer and construction paper to good use. Originally, he was asking us for all sorts of costumes; Indiana , several times, that he already got his costume for Halloween, Ethan started creating his own costumes. He pulled out the paper, markers, tape and scissors and went to town. The amazing thing is that he doesn't leave out anything! He is sure to make all the accessories, such as the whips, swords and even the shoes. Not only is he thorough, but he also makes them at proper proportions (my tape supply is quickly being depleted!). He now has a stack of paper costumes in his dresser!

Yesterday, when Boston came home, he had a plastic fireman hat and sticker badge. That made something click in Ethan, because all yesterday (and today) he couldn't stop talking about being a fireman. As we were driving home from piano, he said. "You know what Mom? Fireman are better than us because they spray fires with their big hose!" He then started asking me all these questions like, "What color are their shirts ( shoes, etc)?" As soon as we got home he put on a yellow shirt and Boston's hat and went to work making his fireman costume. Here is a picture of him at work! At one point he had his leg up on the table to measure it up to the computer paper (he was making the boots). I tried to get a picture of that, but he did it too fast.

Here is another funny kick he has been on lately....we'll let me walk you through the beginning. The other day he said, "Mom! I need a bag that will hold my phone, wallet and chap stick!" I mistakenly said, "Like a purse?" He replied, "Yes! I need a purse." Since then he has been asking for a purse. Yesterday we were in Marshall's and I walked by the purse aisle and he got all excited and said, "Yes! Purses!" (Ben would be so proud). I explained to him that those purses were for girls and that maybe we could find him something else. Later I found one of those soft lunch boxes, and suggested that. He said, "No, Mom, it needs to have a strap!", as he was motioning over his shoulder! I'm hoping to find him a cool little backpack, for Ben's sake! Who knows? Maybe Ethan will just make his own purse if we wait long enough! LOL

Serioulsy!!

Quite often, I start hearing a particular word (not profanity!), or start seeing a certain expression on my kids face, and wonder, "where did they get that from?" We'll, lately Ethan has been saying , "Seriously", A LOT!! It sure doesn't look as cute written down, but to hear his cute voice inflection when he says it, and how he uses it, is absolutely adorable, coming from a 4 year old! Last night I asked Ben if he knew where he got that word from, and within just a few minutes of inquiring, I caught myself saying "seriously"....just like he says it! Funny how kids pick up on things that you don't even realize you do yourself. Suddenly I'm starting to feel uneasy about the crusty looks Aubrie can give!

Another last milestone!

So, being the fourth kid, you might think that Sophia's milestones wouldn't be that big of deal. Right? It is actually quite the contrary. Yes, I may do things I wouldn't had dreamed of doing with Aubrie. Some examples might include; letting her eat something off the floor, giving her candy before lunch, letting her drink soda, or letting her have a bottle at 18 months! However, the milestones are a completely different category. Because she is my last, and I know she is my last, every time she does something my mind tells me, "Rachel! This is the last time your going to have a child walk for the first time, or roll over for the first time, etc..."
Today was the end of a 18 month countdown to Church Nursery, something we have been anxiously keeping track of since Sophia was about 8 months old! Finally, no more walking in the halls after our little monkey. We finally have earned the right to drop her off into someone else's hands for two hours, while we peacefully enjoy two hours of church. Sounds great, huh? Well, I have to admit that while there were some great perks to that , a part of me was checking on her every 10 to 15 minutes to make sure all was well. I felt so empty handed. It was such a weird feeling to sit there in class, with nothing to occupy me but the lesson. I didn't have a distraction as an excuse for not hearing questions, and no reason to leave if I felt so inclined. I also realized how much socializing, and exercise (lol), I got accomplished in the halls. But, mainly, I just missed her! I also realized, as I was analyzying my sad (crazy) feelings of dropping her off (with the other kids, I was trying to sneak them in early) that I typically was pregnant, or had just had a newborn, when I put our other's in the nursery. ( Was that a long enough sentence?) So I was putting one in, knowing I had another or soon would have one, to be chasing. So I was enjoying the short reprieve! But today was it! No more future kiddos were coming into my life for me to chase! I then realized that today not only marked her milestone, but also permanently ended, yet, another season of my life. ( I guess I have my future grandchildren to chase one day, when I'm the most awesome grandma and watch my grand babies for my children as they are gone away on weekend get aways!) So call me weird or crazy for having a hard time today, but I did! My last is growing fast and I can't do anything about it, except try to enjoy every minute of her and all my other kids.

PS Can you tell my favorite conference talk was about making the most of today, instead of piling up a bunch of tomorrows!:)

Flowers from my "Boys"!

I thought I better post before everyone thinks Ben has taken over my (oh I meant to say "our") blog!:)

The other day I received flowers twice. Flowers from my sweet husband who conveniently "forgot" to tell me he was going golfing, and got caught:) And this flower. Ethan came in with this flower he had picked, and planted in one of his cups. What a cute and thoughtful thing from such a small little guy. It sat on my kitchen counter for over a week. I was sad when it finally died, and I had to throw it away. Every time I did my dishes, his flower always cheered me up.

Ethan has so much personality. Sometimes things come out of his mouth that I would expect to hear from a teenager. Yesterday, I went into his room to wake him up for school and he said. "I want to sleep". I continued to scratch his back and tell him he needed to get up. He then said in a "matter of fact" way, "Mom, can you just let me get some rest?" I decided I would let him rest and left. About 30 minutes later he came downstairs all dressed and ready to go. Guess he is like his mother....not one to hop right out of bed when the alarm goes off!!!

Today was a nice break for me. Ben stayed home so I could go to the temple with some ladies in YW. Everyone ended up cancelling, so Melissa showed up by herself. We still had a great time! We made a little stop at the Scottsdale mall on the way home. Our first stop was Nordstroms. I forgot how much I love that place. It's probably a good thing it's so far away, and I'm too lazy and cheap to drive all the way over there. I wish I had more time and energy to walk more of that mall, but I only made it as far as the Gap and Anthropologie. Melissa and I also made a stop at a little place similar to Cafe Rio. I need to learn how to make it myself. It's so yummy! We ended up getting back around 2:00, giving Ben enough time to get a few jobs done for work.

The afternoon was pretty laid back. Sophia took a nap right before school got out, so I had time to play Memory with Ethan and get a quick 15 minute rest on the couch. Aubrie called from school, wanting to know if she could go to her friends house. Her friends parents have A LOT of money, and own a HUGE house behind our church building. Aubrie kept going on and on about how big the house was. So much for me feeding her the line about how she has it better off than most kids! Ha! Now she'll just talk about all that Grace has. I did decide to nip it in the bud, and had a frank conversation about how money doesn't make someone better or more cool, and how our mansion in Heaven is what is most important. I think she was just amazed more than anything, like a little girl going into a castle.

Since Aubrie was at Gracey's today and Ethan had t-ball practice, it was just Boston, Sophia and I, for over an hour. I used the time to make a nice dinner, and feed Sophia. Boston came in asking if I could play kickball with him. I told him I would as soon as I did the dishes. The next thing I know, he is scrubbing dishes and cleaning the sink. Boston and I got about 30 minutes of kickball in, before everyone got home. Boston informed me that he now divides his time on the playground; part tether ball and part kickball. I'm glad that he is enjoying himself at school.

After dinner tonight, it was my turn to put Sophia to bed. She let let me rock and hold her for more than twenty minutes. I LOVED it!!! I love when my kids let me hold them. I know that it will be too soon when they are all grown and I can't hold them like I do now. Thank goodness for grandchildren. Mine are going to be so smothered!

Right now Ben is at Home Depot getting some latches for our pantry doors. Sophia is always getting in them and dragging food items around the house. I can't wait to have those installed so I don't have that headache anymore. I can't wait to see her reaction tomorrow. Isn't that evil? I remember being so excited when we finally thought of putting a gate in the hallway that led to our open den/office. I felt so liberated!!! Though I love Sophia and this cute little age of hers, it also has been so much work. This should cut down on some of it! Now I just need a solution for keeping her off my bathroom counters. That stinker has figured out how to use the bathtub to get up there!:) She is my little monkey!

The perfect hairdo, truth and consequences, Red Sox Magic

I get home from a long day of work with Aubrie in tow and bring in all the groceries and dinner for tonight. I get all the groceries in the house and begin to start pulling the chicken apart to feed the family. We get settled and begin dinner. Boston looks up at me and tells me that he knows how he can help me. He tells me that I need that "stuff" on tv to rub on my head to give me the perfect hairdo. I look to my loving spouse for support and understanding and Rachel is laughing so hard she cannot control herself. All the kids got a big kick out of Boston's pronouncement. I asked Boston if he likes my current hairdo and he tells me that he does not. I tell him that he is grounded and beat him for ten minutes (just kidding, it was only 4 minutes!). I too got a good laugh out of his statement and then said a silent prayer that neither of my boys will be follicly challenged later in life.

Tonight for Family Home Evening we laid out the new law and established the new rules for the house. The kids were excited to participate and the whole lesson went very well. The rules require that we all work together as a family and that we all pull along together. I know that there are many times when we aren't working together and things don't go smoothly. I also know that Satan is most happy when there is contention and hard feelings. We are working hard to have respect in our family and love at all times. It is not easy, but it all starts with me. I came home today and hugged all the kids and told them that I loved them. It really makes a difference when they feel that and hear that constantly. We are hopeful that these new rules and consequences will help the kids to better understand their roles in the family and make everything run more smoothly. I am so grateful to Rachel and for her diligence with Family Home Evening and for pushing me along toward salvation. I figure if I stay close enough to her I might be able to sneak in the side door!

Tonight the Red Sox beat the Angels and are off to the ALCS against the Tampa Bay Rays! I was happy and yelling and jumping around. Before they won they gave up the lead in the 8th inning and I got grumpy. I need to not take sports so seriously, but I live and die with the Red Sox. After so many years of anguish and turmoil I am glad that they have started winning consistently. I will be yelling and screaming all the way to the world series hopefully.

play ball, nerd alert, 79!, stop lock and drop (by Ben, not to be confused with something Rachel would post!)

This morning began 8 weeks of tee ball for Ethan and 8 weeks of coach pitch for Aubrie and Boston. Ethan's game was first at 9:00 a.m. They moved the games to Rio Vista Park which is another 10 minutes further than the previous location. We headed out early and got to the park with 5 minutes to spare. I dropped Rachel and the kids off at the field and then proceeded to park. Unfortunately I dropped them off at the wrong fields and did not realize it until I had already parked and returned to them. I grabbed all the stuff and headed to the other fields which were a bit of a hike. Needless to say I was tired and sweaty by the time that I got to the field. I got there in time to get everything out of the bag and organize the boys and then send them out into the field. The game went well and I was still able to recall every boy's name. Ethan seemed to have a great time, but he bores easily. I had to make sure to keep him engaged as much as possible. He likes to bat and run. He is not a big fan of playing in the field watching others hit. Rachel was able to watch about half of the game and then took Sophia to the park that was next to the field. Sophia was being a stink butt and needed to run around. It will be nice when she is older and will not require so much attention. The game wrapped up and I got all the stuff together and then made the hike back to the car and got Rachel and the kids and we were off to get something to eat. We had to make the proverbial stop at Wal Mart first to pick up some of the essentials that were eluding us at home. We then headed over to Cracker Barrel but they were too busy. We then went to Dennys, but they too were too busy. We finally find the 5 & Diner at 75th and Bell and had a great breakfast. The waitress got our food out quickly and it was great. The kids did well, but Sophia was already an hour past her nap and we had to take turns walking around the restaurant with her.

We finished breakfast and then headed over to the fields where Aubrie and Boston were to play. There were a ton of people there and we got everyone unloaded and then headed over to the field where the magic would begin. I am very happy this year to have Aubrie play in coach pitch. She is very athletic and my only hesitation in putting her onto this team with Boston was due to the fact that she is already doing so many other things. It is amazing how many activities kids have today. There almost seems to not be enough hours in the day for homework and activities and family time. We are working hard to keep a good balance. Aubrie and Boston both played very well and both hit well. I have been working with them in the backyard by throwing balls to them and grounders. Aubrie played catcher the whole game and tried her best to stop all the balls that came her way. She liked being the center of attention. I am not even sure who won the game but I was glad that they had a great time and more importantly that they were able to play together.

We headed home and watched what was left of conference for that afternoon. The afternoon session was great and there were some great talks. I still made the mistake of laying down to watch conference. That is never a good idea for me as I have the tendency to drift off. After the last session of conference Rachel and Michelle took off to get their toes done. I was glad that Rachel was able to get away with her good friend Michelle. It is important to me that Rachel makes time for herself and does things that she is interested in doing. I know that guys get out of the house and go to work and get to do lots of things that wives do not get to do. It is only fair that they are given time to do things that peak their interests. Rachel got back and I was already dressed and ready to go to the priesthood session. Rachel wished me luck and I headed out. Rachel was taking the kids to the park while I was gone. The kids love the park and it was fun that they were able to go and have fun with their friends. I got to conference with 5 minutes to spare. My dad was there already saving a row for me and my brothers at the back of the cultural hall. It is really important to me that I am able to meet with up my dad and brothers for the priesthood session every six months. I know that we are far from perfect in this world, but it does make me happy to see that we are where we are supposed to be on that particular night. The session was great and many things seemed to be pointed at me specifically. Especially honoring and appreciating your spouse. I am so fortunate to have Rachel for my eternal sweetheart. I am still perplexed as to why it is that I don't treat her as well as I should as often as I can. I guess that what they say it true. Often times you treat the ones you love the most the worst. I probably butchered that saying, but I know that Rachel is the most important person to me in this world and I do take her for granted and all that she does for our family far too often. I know that she knows that I appreciate her, but actions truly speak louder than words. Some of what transpires is learned behavior, but I am positive that the Lord will not accept that as an excuse for not treating Rachel the way I should at all times. I continue to try to improve and love her at all times and under all circumstances. I will eventually treat her the way that she deserves to be treated always.

After the Priesthood session my dad and brothers and I went across the street from the stake center to El Caminero to have a bite to eat. Marco and Juan Lorenzana along with Taylor Price also went. It was fun to sit there and catch up with everyone. I have really become great friends with Marco. We are kindred spirits and see the world the same way. I hope that we are able to work together in the future and impact the lives of many people for good. After we had filled up on some good grub I headed back home. Rachel and the kids had just put on Iron Man. It was a great time and the kids and Rachel really enjoyed the movie. Rachel had not seen the movie before and really liked the special effects. The kids stayed up until 10:30 p.m. and had a great time. Rachel and I put the kids down and then Rachel crashed. I was able to get a lot of work done in the office. I am still behind. It is hard to be the secretary, AP person, AR person, Sales Manager, etc. It is my own fault that I try to do it all. I will eventually find someone who I can trust and bring them in to run the business. This will really free me up to grow the business and be more effective.

This is not me by the way! Aubrie asked if this was my picture as I was posting this!!!!

I have decided to get Lasik surgery done this coming Friday. Before the surgery can be performed I need to be out of my contacts for a week. I started this Friday night. I forgot how much I do not like glasses. I look like the biggest nerd on the planet. It is very limiting to have the glasses on. I am looking forward to not having to deal with contacts anymore. Every night when I take my contacts out it feels like I am pulling sandpaper out of my eye. It will also be nice to swim with the kids and be able to open my eyes under water. I have not opened my eyes under water for years. It is the simple things that you miss sometimes. Friday morning there will be no more glasses again ever!

On Friday morning I was invited to play golf with Marco, Juan and Gary (Marco's father-in-law). I had another lesson earlier in the week and had gone to the range a couple of times to continue working on my game. Everything came together that morning. I was hitting the ball well. I was not very good off the tees, but my short game was awesome. My chipping and putting were the best ever. At the end of 9 I looked down at the scorecard and realized that I had shot 38 on the front! That is only two shots over par. I could not believe it. I had never shot in the 30's before. We started to play the back. I bogeyed the first 4 holes. I was a little deflated, but then battled back and shot a 41 on the back. 79! That has always been a goal for me. I was glad to do it. My next mark will be to continue to work hard until I can shoot par. That seems a far way off, but I know that with proper instruction and hard work I can get there. I have always wanted to be consistently good at golf and feel that I just may be on the precipice of that goal. The great thing was that I stopped by the range later that afternoon to hit a couple of balls and learned some new things that will help me to play even better. Marco had the people of Olive Garden sing to me to help celebrate the 79 and then later that evening had the waitress at Black Angus bring me out a brownie ice cream concoction to celebrate again. He is great and I am glad that he was happy for me.

Last night Rachel was really wiped out and I wanted to make sure that she got lots of sleep. I grabbed some pillows and a blanket and headed into Sophia's room. I crashed on the floor. I slept fairly well. Sophia stirred a little through the night. She woke up around 6:45 a.m. As soon as I heard her I prayed that she would fall back asleep but she did not. When she spotted me on the floor she chucked her bottle at me and hit me square in the head. She laughed and had a great time at my expense. I got her up and took her downstairs so that she would not wake anyone up. I changed Sophia and we went outside and looked around. I love getting up in the morning now that it is cooler. I open the front and back doors and let the cool air to run through the house. Sophia loves to walk outside and discover whatever she can. We were able to hang out for quite some time. Rachel and the other children to did wake up. I had to wake Rachel up around 8:30 a.m. to get her up and ready for conference. I took Sophia downstairs and went about picking up and getting breakfast ready. I was watching Sophia out of the corner of my eye. She was walking back into the family room and stopped. She then locked up and started grunting and shaking. Then presumably she dropped a loaf into her pants. I always laugh every time I see this. I am so glad that we learn how to use the toilet. It would be awfully uncomfortable to be walking with someone and have them stop then lock up and then emit a terrible odor. Random thoughts from the deepest recesses of my brain. Not very deep!

The weeks are really starting to fly by. It is amazing how every year seems to go by faster and faster. Work is going well. I had to fire a couple of workers who were stealing from me and being dishonest. I really want to smack them around, but realize that I am much better off not having anything to do with them and just put it behind me. Our little family is doing well. Rachel is still very much the spiritual rock of the family. She makes sure that we have family home evening every Monday night and you can really notice the growth in the children. She also makes sure that the kids know that we are not to watch sports on the Sabbath. I need to go hide upstairs to catch highlights or scores. I won't give up the fight! We are making our way through and are grateful for the blessings that we have. We are grateful for great friends and good times.

You cleaned?

Don't you just love when you spend your whole day cleaning, and when your done, your house doesn't look much different than when you started. Well, of course you notice the difference, but any stranger, child, or husband, for that matter, doesn't. Today was one of those days. After dropping Ethan off, I made a quick run to Walmart. The kids passed off the second paragraph of the Family Proclamation, and so I had to go get their reward, a six pack of their favorite soda. ( The first paragraph was their favorite cereal). I know what your thinking..."your bribing them to memorize that?" Well OF COURSE!!! Anyway, I walked out of Walmart at 10:00 am with two 12 packs of soda (they were a better deal) and a cart full of things that I didn't intend to buy. So I decided I better stay home the rest of the day before I spent any more money.

My first agenda was my car. It was getting embarrassing! Ben came home, for a few things, while I was cleaning it out. I was thinking, "see babe, I work hard around here!" LOL After that, I cleaned downstairs, organized the pantry and fridge, and then worked on upstairs. It's amazing how little things add up and all the sudden your house is cluttered. That is one of the things that stresses me out when the kids get home from school. Backpacks, folder, lunchboxes, shoes, socks, etc...suddenly cluttering my house, that I spend all morning picking up. I can't handle the clutter. Weird thing is that I can handle it anywhere else, except in my house. Ok, I'm getting off on a tangent here. Anyway, after all the decluttering today, I felt much better, even though I know no one else noticed. It also felt great to dive my clean car tonight, when I finally left the house for Young Women's.

In other news...the kids are having a great week. Actually, Aubrie had some girl drama at dance on Monday, but I have a feeling that will happen a lot. Those girls spend at least four hours a week together, so fighting is bound to happen. Ethan had his second T-ball practice, and was much more obedient. I told Ethan that Dad would call Mom if he wasn't a good listener and I would come pick him up early (Ben's is the coach). Guess that strategy worked. Tuesday was Aubrie's last Cheerleading class. They did a little presentation for the parents. They did a handful of cheers and then each girl did something with a partner or on her own. Aubrie did a cartwheel. I asked her why she didn't group with another girl (all worried that she couldn't find a partner), and she said, "because I just wanted to do my own thing." That made me feel better. Boston is plugging right along in school, and enjoying himself. He makes me laugh at what makes a day good or bad. On Monday he said he had a bad day because he missed a word on his spelling test. Funny kid. Sophia is getting quite demanding when we get in the car, lately. As soon as I buckle her she points to the DVD screen and says "moov". I have given up on fighting her. I can't really rationalize with a 18 month old. Ethan is definitely not complaining! He has never been a fan of the "we have to be in the car for at least 30 minutes to get a movie" rule.

One last thing. Today while I was cleaning upstairs, I changed Sophia's diaper and threw it downstairs. About 30 minutes later I realized I hadn't heard Sophia in awhile. I looked downstairs and called for her, and then see her with an pudding pack container that was in the trash. She had pudding all over her hands and mouth. Ugh! I quickly cleaned her up (not before she grabbed my pants with her pudding hands) , and rinsed out the container before I threw it away, for the second time! When I went to throw it away I noticed her diaper was in the trash. So she was smart enough to see her diaper on the floor and throw it away, and that's when she saw the container. I was finding pudding around the house the rest of the day. Ugh! We need to get our carpets cleaned anyway!

Tether Ball Anyone?

***CAN ANYONE FIGURE OUT WHY I PICKED THIS SONG (THE PROMISE) FOR THIS POST??

Just to be sure, I hope you all know how much Ben is missed. And not that you don't know this already, but he is such a great Dad! Boston's favorite thing to do at school, is to play tether ball. Last weekend, Ben was all excited for this "surprise" he was putting together for the kids. Sunday night he couldn't take it anymore, and showed me his "secret" that he was putting together on the side of the house. He was constructing a tether ball court. I don't' really know if I should call it a court, because you can put it where ever you want. He finished it up on Monday, while the kids were in school, and He was so excited for the kids to get home, so he could see their reaction. They were sooooo excited!!! Of course, they started fighting a little saying, "this person is cheating" etc. Boston got grounded from it for a day, and Aubrie for three (because she was giving me lip). The first day Aubrie was off restriction, they were out EARLY that morning playing. They have been very careful not to fight since. I only hear a little squabbling here and there!

LIfe Without Ben

So Thursday was quite a busy day! It started early, 6:20am, when my friend dropped off her son, so she could make an early Dr. Appt. Erin then texted me to see if I could watch her girls while she had Lunch with Eliza. So I had a full house, but all were happy, even Sophia. Sophia loved the extra company. I need to remember that she probably needs play dates more than any of them. Anyway, after all the kiddos went home, I headed to Target and scored some cute shirts for a great price, and Ethan spent his allowance money on Lego's. He quickly had them put together by the time the kids were home. Aubrie had Activity Day's, but luckily she had a ride. In the mean time I made a meal for someone in the ward, and had to time it just right, so it would be ready to go when we left for baseball practice. We headed out around 6:00pm. Practice went well. Sophia wasn't too difficult, and Ethan played with the other siblings who weren't on the team. Toward the end, some members of the team, (mainly Aubrie) got distracted catching grasshoppers! We finally left practice around 7:45! On the way home we rolled the windows down and rocked out to the radio. We sure party hard when Dad's gone! LOL When we got home, Aubrie was in charge of bathing and putting Sophia down while I got the boys in bed. Then is was to cleaning up the kitchen and picking up the house, with Aubrie's help (what would I do without her?). Finally, I got to bed around 11:00, after Aubrie finally fell asleep talking my ear off. I didn't wake up once until 7:20 the next morning.

I shot of of bed hurrying around to get the kids ready for school. My Mom watched Ethan and Sophia so I could get some shopping done at Kohl's, and then I dropped the kids off at Erin's so I could go to Boston's "Hero" presentation at school. His was on the Military. He read really fast, and was so serious. I was trying not to laugh. I was impressed that he picked the military, though. One of Botson's classmates, that goes to our church, said her hero was Heavenly Father. It was interesting to see the parent's reaction and she read hers. I was so proud of her. She was being a missionary and didn't even know it....or maybe she did?!

Last night my Mom and I had a mother/daughter date. We had dinner at Top Shelf and she told me all about her new boyfriend. It's kind of funny to be on the other end. Usually it's a daughter who is having that conversation with her mother, not the other way around. It's nice to see her happy and feeling loved. There is just some things I don't' want to hear about, if you get my drift! After dinner, we went to the Mall and I bought some more stuff. Someone needs to stop me!! (Not really) I do need new clothes. None of my winter stuff from last year fits, because I was still chunky from Sophia....not that there still aren't soft parts of me (mainly my butt and thighs) that need some firming up. I'm hoping to be disciplined enough to start aerobics soon!:) We'll see.
Today started with a baby shower, and then I came home and swam with the kids. I still need to get ready for the day. Ugh! Oh, how I hate getting ready! Anyone else dread that part of their day? Guy's have it so easy, especially Ben! (He has no hair:) Besides me putting that off, I'm really enjoying today. It's so quite and laid back. I think part of the calming effect is do to the fact that there has been NO sports on the TV at all today! AHHHH!!! This is what heaven must be like! Of course, it does have to include Ben!!!

Here are some pics of the kids and what they have been up today!:)

Aubrie fell asleep reading her book!

Boston vegging on the couch

Ethan putting together more Lego's.

Sophia enjoying a snack and some "moov" (Her new word for TV)!

Two for One!

**Warning!! This blog entry may contain graphic photos! If you have a weak stomach you may not want to view:) ha! ha!

So yesterday was the day for Boston's tooth extraction, and Aubrie's fillings. When I went to pull the kids out of school, Boston came in the office saying, "Yeah, I get my tooth pulled now!" It's not like it's been hurting him, so that couldn't be the reason for his insanity. Then I found out, from Ben, that he was looking forward to the stash he would be getting under his pillow that night.

Both the kids did fabulous. The Doctor said neither one of them complained once. Aubrie said the laughing gas made her feel like "she was out of her body". She said she fell asleep in the chair. On the way home she fell asleep in the car. I had her skip dance. Boston did great, too! While they were pulling his decayed tooth, they accidentally knocked out his loose tooth. Boston came out of the office saying, "They accidentally pulled two teeth!" He was all excited because that meant more money for him, and I was panicked thinking they made a mistake! The lady in the front quickly found out what happened, as she saw my face full of panic! Then Boston came to me with this cute little tooth holder, and when he opened it up I almost fell over. His decayed tooth was HUGE. I felt so bad for him, and so proud that he was so tough! The doctor said his decayed tooth had a huge root, bigger than most teeth at this age. Apparently the root starts to disintegrate as they get older. Guess this tooth forgot to mature. To give you perspective at what Boston so bravely endured, here is a picture of the front tooth that fell out and the one they pulled. Sorry, gross I know! He's going to want to see this when he is older. So moving on....

Bedtime for the boys was a breeze, last night. Ben was making some calls for T-ball, and they were asleep before he came to kiss them goodnight. He asked them what kind of drugs I gave them. Apparently, the possibility of the Tooth Fairy skipping your house, because you are still awake, motivated both boys to get ready for bed and fall asleep at lightening speed!

When I went to put money and a note under Boston's pillow I found a note along with his teeth. I thought, "Oh, how sweet, Boston wrote the Tooth Fairy a note." I was wrong. Aubrie wrote this note....saying that the Tooth Fairy was the best (in case you can't read it). She is already sucking up for her next tooth loss! Smart girl. Along those same lines, I have seen on her school paper margins comment's like, "Your the Best Teacher in the World," or "I can't wait for school tomorrow". She sure knows how to suck up!!

Boston woke up early very excited with his loot! Here is the note I left Boston, along with Aubrie's note! Fun times!!!

Today I got the house cleaned up, along with some help;), and then I jetted off to the outlets with Michelle. I found some long skirts for Aubrie, which she desperately needed for church, and even had a chance to buy some things for myself. Thanks Michelle, for watching the kiddo's for a minute so I could do that. It seems like when I go shopping I always buy for the kids, unless I'm by myself. It's too hard to concentrate with them around, and even trying things on can be a pain. Anyway, we ended our shopping by letting the kids run through the "water"playground.

Sophia didn't want to participate, because she didn't have any shoes and last time is was too hot on her feet. I couldn't believe she remembered that. She made sure to only stay under the shade of the umbrella's. After the kids were done playing, Michelle introduced me to the Apple Pie Carmel Apple! YUM!!!

Here is a picture Boston drew of himself. On Curriculum night, at school, we couldn't pick his out of all the drawings. Maybe it was because he made himself look like A GIRL!!! What's up with the girlie eyelashes and red lips!!

Here are some cute clips I got at the craft fair and one of my newest favorite hairdo's. Maybe because it's so easy!!!

This is Me!...Now show me "you"!

I know these are a pain, but it's good journaling material! Hope I don't bore you with my life! Can't wait to see it on your blogs!!
1. What time did you get up this morning? Ugh....woke up, or got out of bed? Finally got out of bed at 7:00!
2. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds.
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? Mummy 3 (for the second time, with the kids)
4. What is your favorite TV show? House and Everybody Loves Raymond
5. What do you usually have for breakfast? yogurt or cereal
6. What is your middle name? Marie
7. What food do you dislike? fancy stuff...like caviar and escargot...Yuck!
8. What is your favorite CD at the moment? Wicked Soundtrack....still! Coldplay is also a fav!
9. What kind of car do you drive? Lincoln Navigator (that soooo needs a detail!)
10. Favorite sandwich? Chicken Walnut from Paradise Bakery!
11. What characteristic do you despise? Narcissistic
12. Favorite item of clothing? My green PJ pants...soooo comfy!
13.If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? African Safari
14.Favorite brand of clothing? American Eagle
15. Where would you retire to? Wherever there are good friends to retire with!
16. What was your most recent memorable birthday? 8 years ago, when Aubrie was born
17.Favorite sport to watch? Olympic gymnastics and any Boston Red Sox play off game!
18. Farthermost place someone might be reading this? North Carolina
19. Person you expect to respond on their blog? not sure
20. When is your birthday? April 26th (take a minute to write it down if you want! LOL J/K)
21. Are you a morning person or a night person? If I were an animal I would be an Owl!
22. What is your shoe size? 7 1/2
23. Pets? 3 cats
24. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us? Sometimes no news is good news, right?
25. What did you want to be when you were little? Doctor
26. How are you today? the kids are in bed, so doing great! Doing well, anyway:)
27. What is your favorite candy? Reese's' peanut butter cups
28. What is your favorite flower? I like a wild flower bouquet best, but if I have to choose....Daisey
29. What day on the calendar are you looking forward to? The first Wed. in November, because we leave for Disneyland.
30. What is your full name? Rachel Marie Pribyl
31. What are you listening to right now? Cold Play
32. What was the last thing you ate? Taco Soup
33. Do you wish on stars? no, but I make a wish when the clock says 11:11!
34. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? red
35. How is the weather right now? well, it's only 90 degrees at 7:59 at night! It's finally cooling off! LOL
36. The first person you spoke to on the phone today? I can't remember that far back.
37. Favorite soft drink? Dr. Pepper
38. Favorite restaurant? Paradise Bakery
39. Real hair color? medium brown
40. What was your favorite toy as a child? dolls and my cats! (I would dress them up like dolls)
41. Summer or winter? We don't really have a winter here, and summer lasts for 8 months...so I'm not sure how to answer that.
42. Hugs or kisses? Both!
43. Chocolate or Vanilla? chocolate, but vanilla wafers!
44. Coffee or tea? neither
45. Do you want your friends to blog this? but of course
46. When was the last time you cried? that, too, is too hard 2 remember. Probably at church. I always cry at church!
47. What is under your bed? who knows? I never go under there!
48. What did you do last night? played Disney Scene It? with the kids and then played Guitar Hero with Ben
49. What are you afraid of? losing a loved one, mostly my children!!!
50. Salty or sweet? Both!
51. How many keys on your key ring? 3
52. How many years at your current job? 81/2 years at the hardest but most rewarding job ever...MOTHERHOOD!
53. Favorite day of the week? Saturday
54. How many towns have you lived in? (11) Woodland Hills, Ca; Newbury Park, CA (3 different times); Lake Tahoe, NV; Redondo Beach, CA; Las Vegas; Thousand Oaks, CA; Oklahoma City; Provo, Draper, UT; Holly Springs, NC; Peoria, AZ!
55. Do you make friends easily? With all that moving, I had to learn!

Name That Tune!

Saturday we started putting up Halloween decorations. The kids were anxious, and I was ready for my Autumn wreath to go on the door! (It's my favorite) The kids were bugging me for more decorations, like the spider webs and such. I decided I would wait until October to do that. Later in the afternoon we took the boys to get their Halloween costumes. Boston picked Jenga Fett and Ethan picked a Storm trooper. That kept them busy for about an hour when we got home. Ethan was invited to a birthday party for a girl in his Primary class, at church. He was complaining that he didn't want to go to a "girls party". I practically had to drag him there. I knew he would have a great time once he got there. Luckily the Mom is his Sunday School teacher, so when she answered the door, I instantly felt his body relax. When I picked him up, he was so happy and going on and on how fun it was. Backtracking....After I dropped Ethan off at the party, I took Aubrie to her afternoon play date with Gracey Blackhurst. She is one of Aubrie's newest friends in the ward. She is a sweetheart, and they get along so well. Aubrie loves going over to her house because it's full of girls! They had fun doing "girlie" things, and then she joined the family over at the Stockings for swimming. She didn't get home until 9:30 (we weren't home but she called us). When we finally got home, she was passed out on her bed in her clothes! (I got a glimpse into her teenage future) Guess my Mom and the boys were asleep when she got home!:)

Ben and I spent the first part of our evening at the Elders Quorum party. It was held at the Sharps house. First, we had dinner outside. David Sharp works for an air conditioning company, so we had two HUGE industrial fans to keep us cool. After dinner, we played "Name That Tune". It was girls against boys, of course! They first started with theme songs from TV shows and Movie's. Most of them were from the 80's along with the finally category which was just songs. Ben getting most of them, so much so they made a joke and just wrote his name on the board for his own points. People were starting to question whether he had a job. LOL Ben is has always been good at storing useless information in his brain and being able to retrieve it at anytime. I can never beat him at Trivial Pursuit, Jeopardy, or Scene It?. My proudest moment, and the girls were loving it, too, was when he was the first to get the theme song for Ghost! I was shocked when he didn't get the Depeche Mode song. I think he just didn't want to tip his hand that he was a fan! (FAnatical FAN, I should say!) After that game, we moved down to their basement, where we could play Rock Band, pool, or cards. Ben took a turn singing, and I took a turn on the guitar and drums. It was fun! Then Ben and I played a few games of pool. We headed out with the Lorenzan's around 9:30 and went to their house for a few games of Seven's and Hearts. It was another late night, and I felt it in the morning.

Today I was so tired at church, especially with little Sophia needing to be constantly entertained. I took her in the Nursery, again, today and I am still so worried about her being in there. All the other kids are two and above, and are doing bigger kid things. The 20 minutes of play time isn't going to cut it for an eighteen month old. After being in there for about 45 minutes, Sophia was done. Luckily my "shift" was over and Ben took her while I went to Young Womens. After church today, the kids and I watched 3 episodes of Little House on the Prairie while Ben napped. Then I took my 2 hour nap, which seemed like 20 minutes. Boy was I tired. After dinner, we went on a walk and then played Disney Scene It? ( Aubrie and I almost beat the boys)! Next week is going to be a crazy one for me. Busy is good, though. I'm starting to realize I am liking busy. As long as I have one day to break it up! Ben is leaving Thursday, for Utah, to golf with college friends. I'm glad he gets to go, and glad he has such great lifetime friends.