Jared & Katie's House

Mom

2012-01-31T06:57:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday, mom!


Thank you for being such a great wife, mom, daughter, grandma, and friend. I am so blessed to have you in my life. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Cutie pie

2012-01-31T06:57:00.000-05:00

Happy 1st birthday to my cutie nephew, Liam!

I love this toothy grin - Liam & Libbie have the same gap. Awesome.

Sometimes she's difficult...

2012-01-30T17:00:00.001-05:00

But, on the other hand, she's hilarious.

Sure love my snaggle-toothed gal...

Mouth-watering

2012-01-28T15:25:00.000-05:00

My friend Jyl made me these cinnamon rolls & told me I could copy her recipe here.
They are to die for - the best I have ever had, bar none.
Jared agrees, and wants me to make some tout suite...
Thanks, Jyl.

The Perfect Cinnamon Roll

2 1/2 c. water warm (about 115-120 degrees F)

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup butter or margarine

3 Tbsp powdered eggs + 9 Tbsp water or 3/4 cup eggs (you don't have to mix the powdered eggs and water together just add them to the bowl)

1/2 c. powdered milk

2 Tbsp yeast

1 c. sugar

1 Tbsp salt

7 c. flour

1. Mix the water, yeast and sugar in the mixing bowl. Let sit five minutes. Add the powdered milk and flour. DON'T MIX. Add the butter, oil, powdered eggs, 9 tbsp water and salt. Mix with a dough hook on medium speed for 10 minutes.

2. Put in an oiled bowl and let rise for at least one hour until it has doubled in size.

3. While dough is rising make the filling.

Filling

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 Tbsp cinnamon

1 cup raisins (optional)

1/2 c. butter melted

Mix together the sugars and cinnamon.

4. Roll the dough out into a rectangle. Brush with the melted butter. Sprinkle with the cinnamon and sugar, leaving a 1/4 inch edge around the whole border. Roll up length wise. Cut into 12, 16 or 18 rolls.

5. Place rolls on a greased cookie sheet. Let rise 30 minutes or until it doubles in size. Bake 350 degrees for 12-20 minutes depending on how big the rolls are. You will know when they are done, when there is a hint of golden brown on top. You never want to over bake cinnamon rolls. It is better to under bake them then over. Other wise the middle piece will not be yummy and gooey.

6. Let cool 5 minutes and frost with half of the frosting. Let cool all almost all the way and frost with the left over frosting.

Frosting

6-8 Tbsp evaporated milk

1 tsp vanilla

3 cups powdered sugar

1/2 c. butter, softened

Mix everything together. You want it to be creamy not runny.

Hints:

1. There are two ways to make these overnight. The first is once you have mixed the put in in a well greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap and put it in the fridge overnight. The next day take it out, let it rise to double its size (this will take longer since it is so cold) and finish with the rest of the steps.

2. The second overnight recipe is to make it up to the point were you put it on the cookie sheet. Once you have shaped the rolls and placed them on the cookie sheet cover them in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge. The next morning take them out and let them proof until they have doubled about 30-40 minutes and bake as instructed.

3. If you want a fast way to proof you bread. While you are mixing the dough turn the oven on to 200 degrees F. Once the dough in made cover it and put it in the oven. Turn the oven off immediately after you close the door and let rise 30-40 minutes until it is doubled in size.

4. If you would like your cinnamon rolls to look like the picture below cut the dough into one inch pieces and place them in a well greased muffin pan. Bake 10-15 minutes.

tender mercies

2012-01-28T07:17:00.002-05:00

-baby still asleep, and it's 7:15. ahhh.
-husby not on call today. double ahhh.
-sweet amy brought me brownies yesterday, just when i was feeling sad. thank you, amy.
-warm house, enough food-blessed with so much.

am feeling thankful for the small things this morning.

Sister in law

2012-01-27T13:42:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I think I married my husband so I could be a sister to Melody.
She's so fantastic.

Love you, Mel.

P.S. My own sister is equally awesome. (Even if I don't get my niece & nephew-pics fix on her blog anymore...sob.) But I'll save that for another post.

Bath time...

2012-01-27T07:09:00.000-05:00

...is so much fun.

toothy grin.

cheese!


i love that i caught her mid-happy squeal. i couldn't stop laughing at this picture.

Love these people

2012-01-27T07:06:00.000-05:00

two peas in a pod.

caught them reading. so cute.

Parenting smart children...

2012-01-26T16:34:00.001-05:00

This made me laugh.
Smart kids, indeed.

Weird month

2012-01-26T10:50:00.002-05:00

-Pregnant - nauseated, worried about the timing, etc.
-Lost 10 pounds from morning sickness. (yesss!)
-Lost the baby/partial miscarriage.
-Took meds to help with the miscarriage.
-Grandma died (but wonderful funeral with lots of good memories).
-Horrid drive home (can't wait to move away from I-81!!!).
-Had to have a D and C. (Jared was awesome in waiting for me & Libbie charmed the pants off all the nurses.)
-Found out I am allergic to morphine (complete with hives & boils) & have a bad reaction to succinylcholine (owie).
-Worried about some family members & want to help, but don't know how. (Send chocolate? Flowers? Fun things to play with?)
-Get to throw a baby shower for a sweet friend (hooray!).
-Libbie is growing by leaps & bounds & is so fun to watch (my saving grace during this up-and-down month).
-End of the month brings my mom's bday & nephew Liam's first bday. Awesome!

Through all of this, I am reminded of these thoughts:

"Rather than simply passing through trials, we must allow trials to pass through us in ways that sanctify us."
--Elder Neil A Maxwell, "Enduring Well", April 1997 Ensign

"Everybody in this life has their challenges and difficulties. That is part of our mortal test. The reason for some of these trials cannot be readily understood except on the basis of faith and hope because there is often a larger purpose which we do not always understand. Peace comes through hope."
--James E. Faust, "Hope, an Anchor of the Soul", Ensign, Nov 1999, 59

"The things we hope in sustain us during our daily walk. They uphold us through trials, temptations, and sorrow. Everyone has experienced discouragement and difficulty. Indeed, there are times when the darkness may seem unbearable. It is in these times that the divine principles of the restored gospel we hope in can uphold us and carry us until, once again, we walk in the light."
--Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "The Infinite Power of Hope", Ensign, Nov 2008, 21–24

"In the many trials of life, when we feel abandoned and when sorrow, sin, disappointment, failure, and weakness make us less than we should ever be, there can come the healing salve of the unreserved love in the grace of God. It is a love that lifts and blesses. It is a love that sustains a new beginning on a higher level and thereby continues from grace to grace."
--James E. Faust, "A Personal Relationship with the Savior", Ensign, November 1976, p. 59.

"No matter how difficult the trial, and regardless of how heavy our load, we can take comfort in knowing that others before us have borne life's most grievous trials and tragedies by looking to heaven for peace, comfort, and hopeful assurance. We can know as they knew that God is our Father, that He cares about us individually and collectively, and that as long as we continue to exercise our faith and trust in Him there is nothing to fear in the journey."
--M. Russell Ballard, "You Have Nothing to Fear from the Journey", Ensign, May 1997, 59

Funny kid

2012-01-26T10:05:00.001-05:00

Lately, Libbie is attempting to say "good girl," because when we tell her to say "please" or "thank you" or not to do something & she stops, we say, "good girl!"

So yesterday, she said something similar to "good girl" & then pointed to herself.

She's so funny sometimes.

Pretty Grandma M

2012-01-21T12:34:00.001-05:00

How I remember my grandparents.

Look how beautiful Grandma is!
And how dreamy my Grandpa is, too!

Sweet, sweet couple.
I'll bet she's so happy to be back with him.

And for fun...

Me & my cousin Jared at what was then Grandma & Grandpa's house.
Gotta dig the 80's clothes.

P.S.

2012-01-19T15:24:00.000-05:00

My sis-in-law said that she was glad I had Libbie during this whole miscarriage thing, so I could focus on staying busy with her & such. (Libbie certainly is a busy bee, so that has helped.)

But today, I am filled with an overwhelming love for my daughter. As much as I have been sad over losing this baby, I am so thankful to have a spunky little girl who is walking up a storm, talking to herself when she "reads," who is social & fun...I'm just grateful to be her mom. (And choosing, today, to ignore the occasional tantrums, picky eating, & flailing arms.)

I feel so blessed.
And while I still don't know the reason we go through certain trials, I am blessed, and feeling thankful to know that today.

Grandma Myrtle

2012-01-19T11:29:00.001-05:00

My grandmother (dad's mom) died last night.

She was 88, spunky, intelligent, spiritual, musical, and feisty.

She enjoyed serving people, loved babies and children of all ages, and was fiercely devoted to her family.

She loved to tell old stories about growing up on her grandparents' farm with her 20 aunts & uncles (and a myriad of cousins, too!).

Grandma never met a stranger - literally. I remember her talking to quite a few when we went out (especially if they were children).

When I was a child, she loved to dye her hair, so I'm still not quite sure what her exact hair color was.

She always had a smile, hug & kiss for me, no matter my age.

I am so thankful that she lived long enough to see me married & that she got to know Libbie a little bit. I can't express what knowing that has meant to me these past few days.

A four-generation picture when Libbie was probably a month old.
I'm so, so happy I have this.

A knowing look, shared between two very spunky ladies.

Me & Grandma.
I think I was pregnant with Libbie in this picture.

I love this picture because it's typical grandma.
Whenever we do crazy family shots, she always looks like she can't believe what a bunch of nuts she's related to...

I am thankful grandma isn't in pain anymore, and I hope she is loving being with my grandpa Frank again. She's missed him so much for these nearly 20 years.

But I sure will miss her.

Myrtle Jewel Toler Leake
September 28, 1923 - January 18, 2012

I feel humbled

2012-01-18T14:12:00.000-05:00

At how many sweet thoughts I've received from friends, family & ward members.
It's humbling to think about how many people think or pray for you on a consistent basis.

I feel truly blessed.
Thank you for the food, the thoughts, the conversations & comments, the hugs - for all of this incredible love.

I feel so thankful for you.
So, thank you.

My big mouth

2012-01-17T13:20:00.000-05:00

You know, there's a reason people don't tell others they are pregnant before about 12 weeks - in case of a miscarriage...which I have now had.

Anyway, sorry for jumping the gun. But thank you so much for your love & support. It means a lot.

2012-01-17T11:30:00.001-05:00

“We enjoy warmth because we have been cold.
We appreciate light because we have been in darkness.
By the same token, we can experience joy because we have known sadness.”
- David Weatherford

Yumma

2012-01-14T14:50:00.000-05:00

Yes, please.

Via www.martawrites.com

Naps.

2012-01-13T12:53:00.001-05:00

I wish Libbie would re-learn how to take one.

This yelling/crying/standing up & jumping in her crib has been going on for TWO WEEKS, for pete's sakes. How long is this going to take? I'm sorry, but a 1-year-old still needs at least one nap a day. (Jared suggested we forgo naps all together, but she is such a grump by 4/5 pm, and ready to fall asleep at dinner. And I need the break too.)

Just venting. Lord, give me patience. Longer than two weeks' worth, I guess.

Church callings

2012-01-12T10:37:00.003-05:00

I liked this list - made me laugh.

My personal fears for church callings, in no particular order:
-Choir director. (I have done this before on an unofficial basis, and I was not a fan.) Try to drum up support for people to stay longer for church - after three hours already. Then, when people actually show up, know how to conduct to the people who actually read music/are good. It just feels embarrassing to me. I'd much rather participate.
-President of - well, of anything, really. I have learned, through the years, that I am a MUCH better follower than leader. I like working within a specific set of boundaries.
-Teacher. Actually, I don't think teaching Gospel Essentials, primary, or Relief Society would be that bad. It's Gospel Doctrine that worries me - where people argue or bring up random facts. Or refuse to participate. (Shudder.) I will say, though, that I bet this calling would be a huge growing experience, so it can't be all that bad.
-Girls' Camp Director. I love the Young Women. I love the outdoors. I just don't like sleeping in the outdoors. (Never have.) So having to sleep in mosquito-infested areas, where I've already been sun burnt & bitten all over...just would give me the willies. (And did when I was a teenager, although I stuck out all the years I was supposed to. Even came back as a counselor.)
-Scout leader. Just because I have no idea what the Scouts do in general. Tie knots? Go camping? Have gross-out boy contests?

P.S. I did agree with the universal anti-nursery idea from the linked list above...
I don't mind serving in nursery, but it sure has been difficult finding people who will, at least in my ward. A LOT of people use nursery as an excuse to get away from their children for two hours. Which I understand. Having an occasional break from Libbie would be amazing, I'll admit. But it also makes me sad when the same people get stuck with nursery because they are willing to help out wherever they can. I wish we had enough people to switch out nursery leaders every 6 months...

a couple of good thoughts

2012-01-11T10:33:00.000-05:00

...that i thought might apply to anyone, regardless of circumstances.

"Just when all seems to be going right, challenges often come in multiple doses applied simultaneously. When those trials are not consequences of your disobedience, they are evidence that the Lord feels you are prepared to grow more (see Prov. 3:11–12). He therefore gives you experiences that stimulate growth, understanding, and compassion which polish you for your everlasting benefit. To get you from where you are to where He wants you to be requires a lot of stretching, and that generally entails discomfort and pain....To exercise faith is to trust that the Lord knows what He is doing with you and that He can accomplish it for your eternal good even though you cannot understand how He can possibly do it. We are like infants in our understanding of eternal matters and their impact on us here in mortality. Yet at times we act as if we knew it all. When you pass through trials for His purposes, as you trust Him, exercise faith in Him, He will help you. That support will generally come step by step, a portion at a time. While you are passing through each phase, the pain and difficulty that comes from being enlarged will continue. If all matters were immediately resolved at your first petition, you could not grow. Your Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son love you perfectly. They would not require you to experience a moment more of difficulty than is absolutely needed for your personal benefit or for that of those you love."
-Elder Richard G. Scott

Philippians 4:11, 13 "Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

In shock

2012-01-09T20:50:00.000-05:00

And slightly panicked.
(okay, more than slightly.)

I'm pregnant.

Have known for a couple of weeks but had some complications, and was going to wait to say anything, but as I was chowing down at church yesterday, I figured I would just let people know.

I am still not the mom I want to be most days. Libbie, while hilarious & smart & fun, is also demanding, sleepless, and loud. And currently refuses to do anything for herself - feed herself, put herself to sleep, drink anything besides milk...it's like she's regressed 6 months or something.

I also never get to clean. Most days, don't get to shower until nighttime. I consider doing the dishes & keeping the screaming to a minimum a productive day. Although I would be embarrassed if anyone came over & saw my dirty floor. And sinks. (Shudder.)

All I can think about is how in the world I'm going to take care of two kids. Mostly by myself. Because this baby is due right about the time Jared will be out of town - on & off for months - for audition rotations.

I have to remind myself that the chances of this happening were almost nil. And that I should feel lucky to even be able to get pregnant - twice, no less. And that Jared felt very strongly like I can handle this - this feeling coming after praying about this child. I keep repeating that to myself, but I am scared, to be honest. My kids will be around 20 months apart. (My sister & I are 21 months apart, and while we love each other now, and loved each other when we were super little, we were not the best of friends from, say, age 6 through high school. We were just too different, I guess. Now, as long as we don't live with each other, we are as tight as can be.)

P.S. Lest I sound too negative, I am trying to pep myself up. I tend to be a Debbie-downer in general (I call it realism, some family members may or may not think I have a propensity to be like a certain great-grandmother, who, while an amazing cook & sweet woman, looked on the rainy side of life & sang, for fun, old country songs about death & illness...), but I am working on it. A theme for this year, perhaps? And now you know why I was so frustrated (and still am) with Libbie's current tantrum/no sleeping without screaming for hours stage. As obnoxious as that is, I was panicking that Libbie will still be in this phase when la babia #2 is born, and then I will literally go insane from the noise, methinks. But hopefully by the time she is 19/20 months, she will have progressed & grown into where she needs to be.

Hmm. Life sure is an adventure, huh? Hasn't turned out at all the way I thought it would, but in so many ways, it's so much better - and more surprising, each & every day. Perhaps my theme for this year should be about letting go, or hope/faith, or just learning to relax & laugh. All good goals. Suggestions for how to work on that with a screamy toddler & one on the way? (Maybe that question is a good start. I am now laughing.)

A post script

2012-01-05T16:03:00.002-05:00

thanks, ladies, for your comments.
it helps to know i'm not alone with the screaming-during-sleep thing.

I'm going crazy.

2012-01-05T12:58:00.000-05:00

CRAZY.

L's never been a great sleeper. We've tried timing things, checking on her, rocking her, & letting her cry. Nothing seems to work.

For awhile, we were - finally - able to put her down to sleep at night after a bath, a prayer, and reading 2 or 3 books. She would fuss a little but put herself to sleep. It was heaven.

Then, 3 nights ago, for no reason we can ascertain, she now stands up & screams bloody murder until you come & get her. Not just come & get her, but rock her to sleep. (She is not wet or poopy, she is not asleep/night terrors, she is not hungry. In fact, she is usually droopy-eyed when we are changing her into pj's after her bath.) I already have to rock her to sleep for naps, and even then, she only takes a nap for anywhere from 20 minutes to 1 hour.

And I know that some of you will likely tell me to enjoy my rocking time with L while she's young, but she was doing so well. It's almost like she has reverted back to a 6-month old in the last few days. She refuses adult food, she won't drink anything but milk, and some days, she won't even feed herself. Add to this the fact that I can't get anything done because she wants to be walked around or throws random tantrums, and I am at my wits' end. (Sidenote: she knows how to feed herself, walk, & drink out of a cup. She just refuses in general.)

Yes, I have read books - on both sides (pro-independence & pro-attachment parenting). Nothing is working. I've called her doctor - twice - and gotten no response.

All of this is coming after a bad ear infection (over it) & a bout with the stomach flu. Funny, though - a few days after she was over both of those things, she was fine & back into her normal routine. It's only the last few days that she's suddenly changed.

I feel like I have the only child in the world who doesn't sleep. She is driving me bonkers. Someone please tell me this passes. Please tell me there is an end in sight...

Suggestions for a willful, stubborn, & overly difficult child?

Holiday hangin' out

2012-01-02T19:43:00.000-05:00

Libbie wanted to prove she was as big as her two & four-year-old cousins & she could ride a tricycle.
This girl has no fear.

Helping Auntie Ginnie & cousin Cameron play piano.

Taking a bath with cousin Charlotte.
Libbie was delighted to have a bath time playmate.

Showing dad she could play the drums too!
(Jared was so proud. He misses playing his drum set.)

On one balmy day, Cameron took a spin around the cul-de-sac.

And Charlotte ran around a bit.

L was still feeling a little punk, so she watched with Grandpa.

And Ginnie & Chad gave me a Christmas present by cleaning my car. Awesome.

Libbie got a music table for Christmas - and loves it.

This kid is obsessed with music.

Jared is contemplating the number of remote controls my dad has...

And all the kids got their pictures taken with Santa.
Cam & Char were champs. Lib...not so much.
If she had had time to warm up to him, I honestly think she would have been fine. Maybe next year.

Gin & I bonded with each other's kids...

And we went to church (the Sunday pre-sickness). I think all of us held one child at one time or another. They kept moving & shifting around. Funny kids. Sometimes I wish I could do that during sacrament...

Harrisons get-together

2012-01-02T19:35:00.000-05:00

I would have had more cute pictures, but...the sickness set in.
So I have these pictures taken on Christmas Eve, pre-sickies.

Grammy, J, & Libbie, playing with her new birthday present - her very own laptop!

Laptop time.

Playing with Auntie Liz.

Playing with Grammy's plastic watercan.

J did some manipulation on a few family members before he got the bug too.

L & Auntie Liz.

Auntie Liz & Uncle Joseph with his gingerbread "super structure."

Aw. Newlyweds.

Leake get-together

2012-01-02T19:28:00.000-05:00

Uncle Scott & L.
All the kids love them some Uncle Scott. Maybe because he's a big kid himself (ha).

Our regular crazy shot.

Charlotte was so excited to get Jessie for Christmas.
As for the rest of us, well...we thought her eyes looked a little possessed.

Conner & Cameron playing together.
I love watching these boys play with Ginnie's & my kids.

Charlotte & Chris. He's so good with kids - of all ages.

Cousins! Poor Charlotte. Libbie is such a bruiser.

A more serious shot.

Siblings.

I have no idea when this shot was taken, but as people rarely take a picture of me & Jared together, I'll take it.

Visiting Grandma Norma

2012-01-02T19:27:00.000-05:00


Sleepy L on the way to Norfolk. She was great on the way down. On the way back? I think she screamed for two straight hours. Sigh.

Sleeeeeepy.

Great-grandma Norma & Charlotte.
I love how Char always looks like she's saying, "Cheese!" in a lot of shots.


Charlotte, Great-grandma Norma, and Libbie. Charlotte wasn't so sure about Sadie, Grandma's dog. And Libbie & Grandma...well, I think those two are both spunky, kindred spirits.

I love love love this picture.
L-R: Cameron, Ginnie, Norma, Mom, Charlotte, Me, Libbie

Christmas 2011...in parts

2012-01-02T18:42:00.000-05:00

Christmas this year was...interesting.

Libbie & I went home early to spend some time with my sister & her kids, who I haven't seen in forever. Right before we left, L had her 1-year-check up, and she had a massive ear infection. (Poor kid. I didn't even know. In my defense, she wasn't any crankier than she is typically when she doesn't get her way or is super tired. She's kind of dramatic sometimes. And loud. But I digress.) So the first week or so of visiting was not pleasant in the sense that Libbie was not feeling well, draining a lot, and generally happy around anyone but me. (Sad.)

Libbie started to feel better for a day or two, and then...the stomach flu hit. On Christmas Eve, my mom started feeling horrible in the wee hours of the morning. (We later found out that my sister, her husband & their kids + my niece Olivia had the flu as well.) Jared, Libbie, & I made our annual day at the Harrisons' household, where we planned on participating in their yearly Jewish supper & caroling while looking at tacky lights. All was going according to plan until Libbie threw up everywhere. Then, Jared followed suit only a few hours later. After Libbie threw up yet again & I started feeling green, I finally decided I was going home with my child, to the already-sick Leake home. My little family felt pretty miserable all that night. It was awful.

Christmas was no different with all three of us + my mom still feeling ill, so it was a pretty low-key affair. We tried again at J's family's house, only to feel gross & have Libbie lose her lunch again, so we went back to the Leake household to lie low. Jared felt better the next day, but I felt gross & Libbie was sick, in fact, on & off for the next 5 days.

So Christmas was full of feeling sick, which was no fun. But it was nice to spend time with my sister & her kids. Cameron is my dreamboat nephew, just like I remember. I love him. Charlotte is hilarious. I wish that she & Libbie had gotten along better, but, as Ginnie pointed out, it's also the age where both kids are learning to share. (I hate teaching sharing, by the way. Hate it. I wish kids were ingrained with a sense of sharing & fairness.) I also enjoyed seeing the extended Leake family on a couple of occasions, seeing my grandma in Norfolk, seeing Jared's folks & area-based siblings, including the cute newlyweds. (Sorry we ruined Christmas, Harrison clan...)

Pictures, in various blog parts, to come. Sorry if they are boring to anyone but family, but as I keep this blog as a journal first & family-picture-gathering medium second, anyone else who is bored may just scroll on through.

Here's hoping 2012's Christmas will be sick-free, at the very least.

Such a big girl now

2012-01-02T12:36:00.000-05:00

When do they suddenly become little kids & less little babies?!

Hambone.
She cracks me up.

happy new year

2011-12-31T19:00:00.000-05:00

2011 has been quite the year.
here's hoping 2012 will be just as stretching, growth-inducing, event-filled - just as great.

may you be blessed & happy with only the best things in 2012!

Happy bday...

2011-12-30T07:00:00.004-05:00

to J's dad/my father-in-law, Jeff.

We love you!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T07:00:00.004-05:00

Since I didn't send out a Christmas letter this year, here's my letter (and most of you probably know all of this stuff, but I'll write things down for journaling's sake).

Jared:

Jared finished up 2nd year mid-2011 and worked feverishly to pass Step 1 of his COMLEX board exams. I didn't see the man much - he lived, breathed, & ate medical school information non-stop. It paid off - he did phenomenally well, much to his relief. The fall brought 3rd year medical rotations, and Jared has enjoyed being out of the classroom and applying what he's learned thus far. As of this letter, he's done internal medicine, OB/gyn, pediatrics, psychiatry, and family medicine. His favorites have been OB/gyn (where the patients are striving to be healthy) & pediatrics (because Jared tends to be the pied piper of kids in general anyway). He's still not sure what he wants to do - he varies from day to day between family practitioner, OB/gyn, and pediatrician. 2012 brings the end of 3rd year (general surgery, geriatrics, underserved care, and a foundations course), Step 2 of the COMLEX board exams, the practical exam bit in Philadelphia, the beginning of 4th year and audition rotations, and applying for the match process. A busy year, but we're excited to be nearing the end of medical school. As for church, Jared is currently serving as the Gospel Essentials teacher, which means he gets to teach basic gospel lessons to investigators, new converts, and missionaries. He loves that calling and looks forward to every Sunday's lesson.

Katie:

2011 has seen me adjusting to life as a stay-at-home mom. I've worked on & off since I was 16-years-old, so to say that this has been a big adjustment is a bit of an understatement. (We considered having me working at least part-time, but by the time we figured in child care costs and my salary, we realized we'd be barely breaking even, so I decided to stay at home. I do miss my job at VT quite a bit, though.) I am enjoying trying to keep the house, meals, and finances in order, and Libbie has grown fantastically right before my eyes. I am constantly amazed at how much and how quickly she is learning, even (and oftentimes) without much help from me. In church, I am still serving on the Relief Society committee (I think to get me to come to RS meetings more than anything else) and also am going on year 3 as the Primary Presidency Secretary (which means lots and lots of constantly re-updating documents, checking who's here and who's not, taking pictures at activities, and other general support for the presidency). I enjoy this calling and occasionally lobby to be called as the primary pianist as well to get some practice in. I've enjoyed living only 3 hours from Richmond, and frequently come home with Libbie to visit my parents, Jared's parents, and various friends. We even got visits from Melody and Ginnie this year, which was awesome.

Libbie:

Libbie has grown this year by leaps and bounds. She went from this little blob to a character with such amazing personality. She struggled with sleeping in general for most of the year, but now seems to be on a good schedule. She went from not being able to sit up or roll over or generally wiggle around on her own, to sitting up, rolling over, crawling (more of a scoot), and attempting to walk all within a couple of months! (Same with her teeth - from none to a current eight.) Libbie is a charmer and laughs and smiles and waves at strangers whenever we go out. She is constantly on the go, and would have me helping her walk - no, run - all over the house if I would let her. She is talkative, curious, alert, and studies people intently when she first meets you. Lately, she wants anyone but mom (and is so in love with her dad). I love watching her learn and grow. And being at home with my sister's kids this holiday has been fantastic. Libbie is totally in love with her cousins - especially her nearly-5-year old cousin Cameron. He's been so great with her.

I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and enjoy relaxing family time and remember the "reason for the season." I am so thankful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and appreciate this time of year when I can reflect on the miracle of His birth and perfect life.

Merry Christmas!

Currently reading

2011-12-23T11:06:00.003-05:00

This book & I am loving it so far.

An excerpt:
"Have a good day" is practically a mantra in our society. But no one reminds us to see good days. What would change if we took as our motto the scriptural phrase 'Love life, and see good days' (1 Peter 3:10)?"

I love that.
"Love life, and see good days."
Hmm. Maybe that should be my motto for 2012.

Cousins

2011-12-22T10:47:00.003-05:00

...are so awesome.

Love this

2011-12-13T20:17:00.000-05:00

An excerpt:

We all know the cliché about true beauty starting inside of us, but let me state it again because it is the truth. The heart of beauty is self-love - which is very different from vanity. Self-love is to embrace our imperfections – our split ends, and flat chest and unshaved legs (if you are me), because at the end of every single day we only have ourselves, and we can either be our closest ally or truest enemy. We don’t need a man to tell us we are beautiful to believe it because when he told me I was beautiful it was something I already knew, but didn’t believe. I think each of us really know it all along if we try hard enough to hear our lungs and eyes and hearts reassure us every day we get to live on this earth. This earth is beautiful because we are on it and we are improving it – and that is how I feel beautiful.

I need to remember this more.
So glad this series is going on to remind me what true beauty is.

1-year-old stats

2011-12-13T13:05:00.000-05:00

Weight: 23 lbs / 89th % (aka the size of an 18-mo-old)
Height: 33 in / 110th + % (aka the height of a two-year-old)

Yep.
Amazon baby.
Just like we like her.

For the list lover

2011-12-13T09:51:00.001-05:00

Like me.
A la pinterest, but with lists.
Swoon.

http://listography.com/

Also love this site. Too funny.

L's bday

2011-12-12T06:56:00.000-05:00

Church is so hard for babies.
Especially when this particularly baby has decided to fight naps in general at church.
Makes for a temperamental kiddo - even on her bday.

Oh well.

She got to dress up & stomp around church.

Apparently, taking off shoes is hi-larious.

Wearing a t-shirt that announces it all.

And she got to eat her very first cupcake.

Not so sure...

A little upset (more because we made her sit in her high chair than because she got a cupcake - she hates being strapped in pretty much anywhere lately).

Dad needed to show her how to eat a cupcake.

And I cut it up for her...

But she still wasn't sure, so dad fed her some.

What?! Could it be that my daughter doesn't like chocolate?!
Must not be my kid.

She'd had enough by this point.
(Have you? I know I post too many pictures. But this face just makes me laugh when I look at it...)

And Jared couldn't stop laughing at her chocolate beard.
(She's making the "all finished" sign in the background.)

Poor kid. We tortured you, huh???

You've come a long way, baby

2011-12-11T06:19:00.001-05:00

My baby is one today.
Wowza. Time really does fly.

One year + a day ago, I was finishing my last day of work before maternity leave. My coworker joked that I would have my baby that night. I told her to cut it out, because I hadn't packed for the hospital, hadn't made much in terms of food, and I seriously needed a nap or two (or six). After all, Libbie was due almost two weeks later, near Christmas...

Then...yes. Labor began that night, and she was born on December 11th, 2010, around 5 a.m. in the morning. (All in all, I was lucky. I labored at the hospital from 9 p.m. until she was born. Not too bad, I'm told, for a first-time mama.)

One year ago, Libbie looked like this:

So little!

And now, she looks like this:

Big kid. I love this girl in blues & greens.
She's got the genes of her dad, lucky duck, and looks good in pretty much any color. (Jealous!)

I feel a myriad of emotions in thinking about this past year. How I struggled so much with post-partum depression. How I doubted my decisions daily, yet stubbornly wanted to do things my way, and no one else's (once I figured out that way, that is). How I felt such fierce love & protectiveness over this tiny little person. How I rejoiced and watched in wonder as she learned to laugh, sit up, roll over, clap her hands, take her first few steps...

Libbie has been a true miracle in my life. She makes me want to be better. She makes me strive harder for patience, kindness, soft answers. She makes me turn more consistently to God for support, for mercy & forgiveness.

Libbie has made me a mother. I am so thankful for this little spit-fire of a girl. I love her more than words can express, and I am so humbled and grateful for the privilege of trying to teach & guide her through life.

Happy birthday, baby.
I sure love you.

For scripture study

2011-12-09T10:25:00.000-05:00

I have been wondering how to study the scriptures in a more meaningful & thoughtful way.
Cut to this blog post.
What an awesome idea.

Picture courtesy of The Redheaded Hostess Blog.

I love the scriptures, I love reading & writing & highlighting...for me, this is perfect. Sounds like a great resolution/project for 2012.
Can't wait to get started!

Note: Part of me wonders if my journal would be better served in a 3-ring binder, since I'm sure I would find more pages, topics & notes to fill up a journal...thoughts?

Kindle Fire

2011-12-07T14:33:00.002-05:00

I got one for my birthday.
I LOVE it.
Thanks, mom & dad.

P.S. Who knew the angry birds game could be so addictive?
P.P.S. I love that Jane Austen's works are free...sweet!

Miscellania

2011-12-07T09:26:00.000-05:00

*So excited to see this lady & her kiddos next week. I have missed my sister so, so much. Wisconsin is much too far away!
*Will miss the husby terribly, though. Stupid school. And stupid making him do a report on December 23rd. Who does that?!
*Happy it's Christmas. I just feel generally more jolly this time of year. Celebrating Christ's birth, getting excited with little kids over Santa Claus, family Christmas traditions, lots of spices & baking in the kitchen, buying presents for friends & family...I love this time of year.
*Yes, please.
*Lots & lots of primary stuff to do before leaving town next week. Prepping stuff for 2012 (a secretary's job is constant, it seems...but it's okay. I like staying busy.). Making treats for the kids & leaders. Having one last presidency meeting with our amazing 1st counselor before she moves (sob). And cleaning the church. And helping a new family move in (right behind us - hooray!). Remembering to give treats to visiting teachers & home teachers (& all teachees). Church sure keeps me busy sometimes.
*Excited for a cookie exchange with friends!!! Love cookies. Love these ladies even more. (You know who you are. Especially if you don't have a blog.)
*L's 1-year appointments are next week. Lots of poking, prodding, & shots. Not fun.
*Can't believe she's 1 already. The year has really flown by. She is so fun as of late - talking, trying to walk, fake laughing, trying to figure out how to put on & take off shoes, how to put containers on lids & pull ziploc baggies apart, "reading" to herself, dancing by waving her arms in the air...I could keep going. This kid is so fun & such a mimic lately. She keeps me entertained everyday.

Headbands & hairbows

2011-12-04T16:48:00.000-05:00

This kid hates 'em.

Thus the grumpy pre-church pictures below.

Getting ready to yank it off...


Crying when I made her keep it on for a picture. Ah well. I tried, right?

P.S. As cute as this dress is, I'm taking it back. It leaked glitter everywhere. We're talking Jared's pants & sweater, my dress, Libbie's hair, the entire bench we sat on, the hallways she walked in, etc. We wound up changing her into regular clothes midway through church, and later, I even found glitter in her diaper!!!

A Leake Thanksgiving

2011-11-29T09:56:00.000-05:00

Grandpa/Papa. (He goes by both.)

Uncle Josh (with a wicked goatee) & Libbie. She was in love with his deep voice & height.

Yeah, we're weirdos. I know.

Prepping for T-giving in the morning. She was dragging some Coke Zeroes behind her. Funny kid.

Let me out!!!

Me, Grandma, Auntie Kess

Libbie was so happy to have so many people to walk her around...started with dad.

Kess & Libbie

Scott & Josh

Ha! Another willing walker.

Libbie & Uncle Scott. (Poor kid didn't feel great. Stupid colds.)

Great-auntie Sharon.

Jared & Libbie

A more serious picture.

Ah, that's more like our family...

Pretty girl.

Ew. How do boys DO that?!

Jared was SO happy to throw the football around with the boys.

Love this shot.
Miss you, Spencer.

A Harrison Thanksgiving

2011-11-29T09:48:00.000-05:00

Libbie is in love with all of Grammy's knick knacks around the house.

Poppa (doing his best to stay out of the picture), Jared, Auntie Rebekah, Auntie Liz (I covet that long, straight, silky hair!), Uncle Joseph, & Grammy.

Libbie loves herself some Happy dog.

Marie & Jeff (aka Grammy & Poppa)

Liz & Joseph were trying to gross Rebekah out. (Ha. I remember when Jared & I grossed him out.)

Auntie Rebekah & Libbie

Playing piano with Liz (who is a fantastic pianist, by the way).

Hi, mom.

They are so cute together. (Ah, newlyweds...)

Sweet.

For Uncle Trent

2011-11-24T08:42:00.002-05:00

So you can see how she moves...

Happy Thanksgiving!

Lest you think I'm too negative...

2011-11-22T14:41:00.001-05:00

I realized that, occasionally, I come across perhaps a tad negative on this blog.
I don't mean to - I promise.

Motherhood (& wifehood, for that matter) mean a lot to me. They're just so vastly different from what I imagined - in both good & bad ways. Some days, I feel like I'm still transitioning from the single, working woman I was for quite awhile to the stay-at-home mama I'm working towards becoming now.

And I know I have a tendency to be a little too open...

So, lest you think I'm too negative...

I love my life. I really do.

I have a fantastic husband who is my best friend. Constantly cracks me up.

I have a daughter who, like her dad, thinks she is the funniest thing in the world. She keeps me laughing. And she's so dang smart. I caught her yesterday, even in the midst of sickness, trying to put her socks back on (this was after she took them off). And she's 11 months old. And trying to dress herself - already?

I have amazing friends & family who love me, despite my tendencies to be too open or negative, sometimes. I hope they all know how much they mean to me.

I have the Gospel of Jesus Christ in my life. And whether you are religious or not, for me, the love of God in my life makes all the difference. (Especially on days where I am bordering on insanity...gives me a better perspective.)

I have so far to go in so many ways, and perhaps I express that a little too much on this very public forum. But, despite all of that, I know I'm blessed. Incredibly so.
Just so you know I know.

A hotbed of germs

2011-11-22T10:20:00.001-05:00

My kiddo, that is.

Last week, the stomach flu.
This week, a nasty cold.
I'm not sure which is better...or worse.
But it's par for the course, right?

I remember when I was teaching (shoot, even student teaching), I got sick - a LOT. Suppose I was just waiting for the germs to circulate...
(And poor J - with his last rotation especially - peds - he caught a nasty bug too.)

Poor baby girl.

Any advice?
Besides washing her hands, fluids, & lots of rest?

My current hobby

2011-11-21T10:18:00.000-05:00

This kid.

And feeling the same sentiments as Marta.

An excerpt:

my own toddler is my creative project at the moment. he's the main show. and that is more than okay with me. it was a happy mini lightbulb moment. one more moment of realizing how motherhood is something i'm unbelievably grateful for and very proud of. i love that mother is now a title i hold. it is worth giving other things up for. and then i felt fine about everything...

something my dear idaho friend, julie, once told me has been sticking to me like glue lately. i think of it often and am so happy she answered me so honestly. over the phone, i casually inquired about what amazing new sewing project she was working on. (the first time i met her she was sewing a giant hoop skirt–and other treasures to outfit her kiddos–to wear at an upcoming mountain man rendezvous!) she recently had her third baby and is gracefully figuring out how to manage life as a mom of three. julie said so nonchalantly and very matter-of-fact, i've decided that my kids are my hobby. i am putting them first. that one phrase has come into my mind so often. it reminds me, as a mother, to remember to make motherhood fun; to make it more than an obligatory responsibility. to make a choice to make the most of it. to enjoy each day as they are only little once. to make motherhood matter.

Hmm.

2011-11-16T16:44:00.001-05:00

Yep. She's a turkey, all right...

Adversity

2011-11-15T10:53:00.003-05:00

I love this lady's blog.
And loved her post today.

A few excerpts:

In general, I think we typically refer to James 1:5-6 in the context of the Restoration of the Gospel. We immediately think of Joseph. However, James’ message was much broader than that. It was to us too. Look what he says in the three scriptures just before: 2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into ^adivers^btemptations; 3 Knowing this, that the ^atrying of your faith worketh^bpatience. 4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be^aperfect and entire, wanting nothing...

Do you know C.S. Lewis and his story? Did you know that his wife died of cancer just four years after they were married? Elder Holland gave a talk, that I love called “The Bitter Cup and the Bloody Baptism,” and in it he quotes some really raw word from C.S. Lewis...
“‘. . . You will never discover how serious it [is] until the stakes are raised horribly high; [and God has a way of raising the stakes] . . . [sometimes] only suffering [can] do [that]. [pp. 4143]

“‘[So God is, then, something like a divine physician.]

A cruel man might be bribed–might grow tired of his vile sport–might have a temporary fit of mercy, as alcoholics have [temporary] fits of sobriety. But suppose that what you are up against is a [wonderfully skilled] surgeon whose intentions are [solely and absolutely] good. [Then], the kinder and more conscientious he is, [the more he cares about you,] the more inexorably he will go on cutting [in spite of the suffering it may cause. And] if he yielded to your entreaties, if he stopped before the operation was complete, all the pain up to that point would have been useless. . . . [pp. 4950]

“‘[So I am, you see, one] of God’s patients, not yet cured. I know there are not only tears [yet] to be dried but stains [yet] to be scoured. [My] sword will be made even brighter. [p. 49]

“God wants us to be stronger than we are–more fixed in our purpose, more certain of our commitments, eventually needing less coddling from him, showing more willingness to shoulder some of the burden of his heavy load. In short, he wants us to be more like he is and, if you haven’t noticed, some of us are not like that yet.” (BYU Devotional, January 13, 1987)

What an interesting birthday

2011-11-14T18:59:00.001-05:00

Let's just get the bad parts of the day over with...
*An early morning awakening. We're talking 5 a.m., people. And that's after I took an antihistamine last night because I was feeling sickly & couldn't sleep. So I eventually went to bed, oh, about 11:45 or so. And was feeling kind of cold-medicine hung over this morning. First thoughts on waking up? Arggghhhh...
*Libbie's change of clothes today - 4 times. Not counting pj's this morning, nor this evening (so I guess it's really 6 outfits total) - mostly due to messy diapers. 'Nuff said.
*Scream-crying in Target. Good times.
*Throwing up nearly everything she's ever eaten on the carpet. Then crying - hard - and throwing up some more (on me, this time) after I tried to vacuum (what is it with little kids & vacuums?!).
*Feeling, at one point, like the birthday I had a couple of years ago where I had walking pneumonia was better than today. Because at least then I could drink some hot cider & watch a movie while coughing my head off...and I didn't have to worry then about a little kid clinging to me & crying, no matter what I did. All. day.

The only time I caught Libbie not crying today. So, of course, I took a picture. Mean mama.

Okay, enough whining. On to the good bits...
*Last night, a joint b-day dinner with my friend Dani from our friends Jyl & Elicia. I love these women. They crack me up. I was a bit preoccupied with Libbie, so I wasn't exactly the life of the party. But I hope to go bother them again soon.
*Some presents in the mail. :)
*Happy b-day emails from my mom, my sister, my bro-in-law, brothers...etc.
*Happy b-day texts from family & friends.
*An amazing bouquet of flowers from my parents. Who were worried about me spending this b-day alone & being sad. (Uh, I think Libbie's being sick was a blessing in disguise, because I was too busy to be sad!)
*Buying myself presents at Target - like the newest Harry Potter movie. I love being a nerd.
*Absolutely gorgeous weather. Upper 60s, sun shining...odd. Usually, on my birthday, it is cold & rainy. And fall in mountainous Virginia is so. stinking. beautiful.
*Some ice cream treats from Dani (whose birthday is tomorrow!).
*A blessed, early bedtime for Libbie. She just conked out at 6:30. Wowza. She hasn't done that since she was 6 months old. Fingers crossed she sleeps at least until 6. Because she sure needs it!

All in all...an interesting birthday.

31

2011-11-14T06:00:00.004-05:00

I think it'll be a great year.

Hmm. Apparently, I liked chocolate back then, too...

Wishes for this year...
*A tougher stance on letting my kid fuss/cry. I need to get stuff done sometimes, man.
*Better eating/exercise habits. It seems like when I'm good with one, the other falls. (Right now, good with exercise, but am still eating cookies.)
*Better FHE/scripture study. Working on it.
*Temple attendance at least 2x/year. Since we live 5+ hours away now.
*Better service in my calling. Am coming to love the primary kids more & more each day. I just wish I didn't have 40 pairs of eyes staring at me. Eeeek.
*Better appreciation for all the amazing blessings I have. (For example, instead of wishing my kid slept more/had a more calm demeanor, I'm trying to focus on her strengths - how hilarious she is, how energetic, how quick...etc. Most days, this helps me work better with her. Hope to continue this throughout the next year.)

Libbie's favorite place to stand

2011-11-13T20:01:00.000-05:00

Right in front of the television, dancing with Elmo.

In this month of thanks...

2011-11-13T14:44:00.000-05:00

I am thankful for so many things.

For a husband who is calming, my best friend, & a fantastic father.
For family who loves, supports, & prays for me & my little family.
For fantastic ward friends.
For old friends who still keep in touch & love me for me.
For my sweet daughter who is hilarious, energetic, smiley, & smart.
For the opportunity to be a mother & learn patience, kindness, & humility all over again.
For this beautiful earth, especially fall, in beautiful, mountainous Virginia.
For my Savior, the Atonement, & my Heavenly Father.

When I think of all of these incredible blessings, life seems pretty good.

Holy moly

2011-11-11T10:34:00.001-05:00

L is 11 months today.

Time sure does fly by.

Facebook

2011-11-10T19:15:00.001-05:00

I think if you're off Facebook, like I've made a commitment to be, then the world is prejudiced against you.

For example...

I wanted to enter a giveaway to win some Christmas gifts (I won a few a couple of years ago doing this), and it's solely winnable on Facebook now. Dang it.
I don't hear about marriages/babies/job promotions/health scares/general keeping-up-with-people anymore, unless I'm on Facebook.
I don't even hear about family news unless Jared signs on & finds out stuff.
Even church announcements are starting to go on Facebook. This annoys me. More people check their Facebook than their email or voicemails (or texts), for pete's sakes.

I made a commitment to stay off Facebook because of how much time I wasted on it...and because I occasionally read too much into other people's comments. I realized it was stupid to get upset over a comment, a status update, or the like. I feel like Facebook has taken over the world, and it makes me sad. Whatever happened to actual human conversation? Or interaction?

Am I backwards because, lately, I am against overuse of social media? I still use Blogger, I text & I email. I just don't feel the need to express my every thought in a Facebook status or Twitter message.

I feel old. Recently, I'm even missing hand-written notes & letters. (Don't even get me started on how my 8th & 9th graders didn't know how to compose a letter or address an envelope. And some of these kids were honors students. Still shaking my head...)

Just sayin'.

Excited

2011-11-03T21:42:00.001-04:00

To see my husband this weekend.
Even if, technically, it's really only for about a day & a half.
I'll take it!

Libbie hears Jared whenever he gets home, and scoots the fastest I've ever seen in any child (well, any child that "crawls" by scooting, breakdance-style, across the floor).

She is in love with her dad, and I love that they are mad about each other. (While we've been apart, & when J actually has a break to call while L is awake, she giggles & points at the phone & talks to him. I love that she already knows & adores her dad.)

And Cameron, too.

2011-11-02T09:38:00.002-04:00

Love those kids.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T06:51:00.003-04:00

From my ridiculously cute poodle-niece.

And her talented mom.

I laughed so hard when I saw this picture.

Visiting great-grandma Norma

2011-10-30T18:37:00.000-04:00

Grandpa Wayne, L, Great-grandma Norma

Lib & Grandma Norma

Marching in a onesie & socks. No pants. Love it.

Hi.

Trying to get to Sadie, Grandma's dog. This little girl is, out of nowhere, obsessed with dogs. She's too funny.

lib's eating rituals

2011-10-30T18:28:00.000-04:00

Clapping while we sing. (I sing to distract her from dumping food on her head, in her eyes, hair, on me, etc.)

Making faces at me while she tries to push the tray table away so she can get out. When she's done, she's done.

ready for church

2011-10-30T18:26:00.000-04:00

I found this dress at a consignment shop & couldn't help it.
It looked like a private school uniform, and I thought it was hilarious.

Especially when she stood up - it's a 2T, so it's a little long (unusual, though - most 24 mos/2Ts fit her, length-wise, right now). And yes, it's pink. But also brown. I liked the combo.

Bundling up. I can't believe how cold it was this morning!
I liked it for a change.

I think I just love the hat the most. She hasn't figured out how to take it off yet, and I love little kids' hats. I think adults should be allowed to wear those type of winter hats too...

A day at the park

2011-10-29T05:00:00.002-04:00

With Auntie Melody, cousins Camden & Liam, and Poppa.

Cousin Camden & Lib with a very friendly goat.

Giggling at the goat.
This kid, all of a sudden, adores any & all animals.

Hi, goats.

This is her "Mo-om. Stop taking pictures" face.

Pointing to the goat she wants to pet.

A very tired bobcat.

Conversing cousins - how do we get out of these harnesses...

Well, Libbie tried, at least.

A shy gray fox.

Hi, guys!

Cutie cousins, 7 weeks apart.

Maymont is sooooo beautiful.

Pretty Aunt Melody with cousin Camden.

And the pretty mama with Liam. Sweetie pie.

Some things never change...

2011-10-28T17:58:00.000-04:00

Like my dad, dancing with babies.

(Gin, remember him dancing with us as little kids?)

Especially to blues.

She's nuts...

2011-10-28T17:55:00.001-04:00

but she's mine.

okay, and sometimes she's cute, too.

(mostly when she's not yelling at me for not walking her around...)

Visiting family

2011-10-28T16:00:00.014-04:00

While Jared has been on a far-away rotation, I took advantage & came home to Richmond with Libbie to visit both my side of the family & Jared's. It's been so fun, and I am realizing just how incredibly loved my little girl is...

Auntie Melody & cousins Liam & Camden flew out from Colorado, so we wanted to say hi while they were visiting Richmond. I loooooove me some Melody. She is such a good friend & a great mama - and my sister-in-law. I'm pretty lucky. And Liam was born about 7 weeks after Libbie, so we wanted those two to play together.

Libbie wound up being pretty obsessed with her older cousin, Camden. I guess she wants to be a big kid...
Here he is, dressed for Halloween as "Captain Point Sword," a superhero he invented.
Melody's a good mama to help him create the costume he designed.

Libbie loves her some Grandma T.
This was right after they were done bonking heads. And L decided to be a hambone for the camera.

Grammy with Libbie & Liam.

And then they started to cry. I just think this picture is hilarious.

L with Grammy.

The cousins playing together.
Except for their similar eye color (we think hazel on both), they couldn't look more different to me!
Liam is sweet & laid-back, while Libbie is a bruiser.
Sorry she took your toys by force, Liam...

Libbie & Poppa. She loved her some Poppa.

Libbie & Great-grandma Myrtle. She wasn't so sure about her for awhile.

Libbie & great-aunt Sharon. Sharon was smooching all over Lib, and L was uncharacteristically quiet about it. Funny kid.

Ahahahahahaha

2011-10-26T17:42:00.000-04:00

If you've ever wondered what primary songs sound like mixed with dance club-type beats, go here.

I am still laughing, Libbie is dancing, and my mom is disgusted.

Awesome.

Inspiring

2011-10-26T17:17:00.002-04:00

Love this message.
And am crying...
almost made it to the end of the video without that, dangit...

Mothering

2011-10-25T20:59:00.000-04:00

Lately, after L is in bed, I reflect on my day & realize that I missed so many teaching moments. That I lost my temper more than I wanted to (well, who ever wants to lose their temper, but you get what I mean). That I was lazier than I intended. That I compared myself more to other women/moms I know & it just made me feel horrible for most of the day.

I wish I could reach the potential as a mom, as a wife, as a daughter, sister, friend, woman - that I want & can see so clearly for myself at brief, shining moments - while I'm actually IN the moment.

There has to be a way I can catch myself while I'm mothering or being a friend or serving or just living - where I can make a difference & be satisfied that I am doing the best I can.

Because right now, I feel like there is so much more I could be - and should be.

Do you ever feel this way? How do you deal with it? Any advice?

Good things/frowny things.

2011-10-24T20:00:00.001-04:00

This week (& planned for next, possibly):

Good things -

A child who literally scoots-nay, break dances-her way across the floor. It makes everyone laugh & is entertaining for all. And she has plenty of room to break dance, too. So nice & varied from our apartment.
Beautiful weather thus far.
Seeing family. Especially Melody. And Scott, soon, I hope.
Having company/family play with Libbie so I can take a shower in peace.
Free dinner!
Going to the temple.
Seeing my 90-year-old grandmothers. Who are so excited to see their great-grandchild.
New toys for the kiddo to explore!
Seeing friends. I love love love these girls. You know who you are.
Chocolate. Thank you, dad.
Cousins to play with! L is especially obsessed with her older cousin, Camden. He is all sorts of cool in her eyes.
A doggie to torture. Lib squeals with delight when she sees J's old dog Happy. The poor thing keeps getting up & moving away...
Halloween is coming! I find I'm liking this holiday more with a child. I haven't really been excited about Halloween since I looked too old to get candy from neighbors, when I was about 10 or 11. (That was a bust of a day...disappointing.)

Frowny things -

Missing my sister. With so much family around, I miss her like crazy. My brother Josh, too.
Missing my husband. More than I want to admit. He's like a drug. He's so laid-back & chill - I really miss that when I'm on my own. And his friendship. And how happy he makes our daughter...ok, and me too.
L's recent penchant for waking up at 5 a.m. Grrrrrr. (And refusing an afternoon nap, although today was better...)
L's crying jag in the car. Where every orifice on her face was covered in tears or snot. I felt like a horrible mother, but as she refused to be comforted, I simply turned up the music in the car & kept on driving. Looking forward to the drive home...sigh.
Missing my morning walks with ladies from the ward. When I come home, for some reason, I feel the need to slack on my exercise routine & just let my parents spoil me. Must. not. give. in. to. cookies...

Huh.

2011-10-23T20:44:00.000-04:00

Apparently, my kid likes rap/R&B.
My roomie Gretel would be so proud.

(So far, she likes/dances to...
Stevie Wonder
Classical
Primary songs
Taylor Swift
Usher
Justin Timberlake
Various rap or R&B artists on the radio that I don't know
Norah Jones
The soundtrack to Elf
Adele
Rascal Flatts
The soundtrack to The Sound of Music)

Investigation into her musical radio/CD tastes are ongoing.
Funny kid.

I have such cute nieces & nephews...

2011-10-21T08:48:00.000-04:00

Some of whom are pictured below.

Excited for holiday season to see some of them!

T shirts & jeans...

2011-10-21T08:37:00.000-04:00

...Make my kid look so old!

Silly.

2011-10-19T08:41:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the shoddy camera work, messy house, & Huggies advertisement (hey, the onesie was free).
I just wanted to catch her tired/silly laughter.
Funny kid.

Easy Halloween treats

2011-10-16T12:38:00.000-04:00

Here.

Yes, please.

Thought of the day

2011-10-16T07:00:00.010-04:00

Loving quotes from this talk today.

Healing blessings come in many ways, each suited to our individual needs, as known to Him who loves us best. Sometimes a “healing” cures our illness or lifts our burden. But sometimes we are “healed” by being given strength or understanding or patience to bear the burdens placed upon us. ...

The persons who wrote these letters know that the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the healing it offers do much more than provide the opportunity for repentance from sins. The Atonement also gives us the strength to endure “pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind,” because our Savior also took upon Him “the pains and the sicknesses of his people” (Alma 7:11). Brothers and sisters, if your faith and prayers and the power of the priesthood do not heal you from an affliction, the power of the Atonement will surely give you the strength to bear the burden.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden,” the Savior said, “and I will give you rest … unto your souls” (Matthew 11:28–29).

As we struggle with the challenges of mortality, I pray for each of us, as the prophet Mormon prayed for his son, Moroni: “May Christ lift thee up, and may his sufferings and death, … and his mercy and long-suffering, and the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind forever” (Moroni 9:25).

Happy bday to...

2011-10-16T07:00:00.005-04:00

J's mom, sweet Marie.

We love you.

Ahhh.

2011-10-15T10:53:00.000-04:00

I keep forgetting how insanely gorgeous Blacksburg/Christiansburg is in the fall.

Fall makes me so happy.

And so do two-hour naps.
(The child hasn't done this in probably a good two months.

I am giddy with happiness right now.)

Single mama-ness

2011-10-13T20:58:00.003-04:00

J's been on call a lot lately. (He loves his rotation, so I'm glad he's at least spending extra time doing what he loves.) I've been understanding (or trying my very hardest to be so).

But we just found out that VCOM assigned him to Richlands, VA for his next rotation - for a month.
(Thanks for the notice, VCOM...grrrr.)
That means I'll be a single mom during the week.
(What? He doesn't want to commute 4+ total hours everyday?!)
And he'll miss my birthday.
No fun.

(Pity me...just kidding. I know you ladies with military hubs & doctor hubs & traveling hubs are my heroes, anyway.)

I guess this is preparing me for what 4th year absences (audition rotations) will be like, right?
Right!

And it's funny how the Lord answers your prayers...
I have been praying extra hard for patience. Instead of receiving said patience, I have been alone more often with a very stubborn child, but yet am recognizing God's blessings more too.

P.S. I am thankful to have family close. And even more thankful for the ladies in my ward who walk with me in the mornings, have playgroups, & lunch dates. I need those things more than I realize sometimes.
P.P.S. Ginnie, Melody, Nora, Liz...any of you are welcome to move near me any day. I promise free babysitting (now & future!). ;) (G, Reesa, Claire, Jess, Liz B, Autumn, Kelly...this all applies to you as well...)

Thought of the day

2011-10-11T15:29:00.001-04:00

as my child is trying to climb up my pants leg. Love her. She cracks me up.

Since all love emanates from God, we are born with the capacity and the desire to love and to be loved....Responding to true love is part of our very being....Only as we feel God's love and fill our hearts with His love can we be truly happy. God's love fills the immensity of space; therefore, there is no shortage of love in the universe, only in our willingness to do what is needed to feel it. Trying to find lasting love without obeying God is like trying to quench thirst by drinking from an empty cup—you can go through the motions, but the thirst remains. Similarly, trying to find love without helping and sacrificing for others is like trying to live without eating—it is against the laws of nature and cannot succeed. We cannot fake love. It must become part of us. -Groberg

Good food for thought...

2011-10-10T15:55:00.001-04:00

...That I often forget.

"I want to tell you something that I hope you will take in the right way: God is fully aware that you and I are not perfect.

Let me add: God is also fully aware that the people you think are perfect are not.

And yet we spend so much time and energy comparing ourselves to others—usually comparing our weaknesses to their strengths. This drives us to create expectations for ourselves that are impossible to meet. As a result, we never celebrate our good efforts because they seem to be less than what someone else does.

Everyone has strengths and weaknesses.

It’s wonderful that you have strengths.

And it is part of your mortal experience that you do have weaknesses.

God wants to help us to eventually turn all of our weaknesses into strengths, but He knows that this is a long-term goal. He wants us to become perfect, and if we stay on the path of discipleship, one day we will. It’s OK that you’re not quite there yet. Keep working on it, but stop punishing yourself.

Dear sisters, many of you are endlessly compassionate and patient with the weaknesses of others. Please remember also to be compassionate and patient with yourself.

In the meantime, be thankful for all the small successes in your home, your family relationships, your education and livelihood, your Church participation and personal improvement. Like the forget-me-nots, these successes may seem tiny to you and they may go unnoticed by others, but God notices them and they are not small to Him. If you consider success to be only the most perfect rose or dazzling orchid, you may miss some of life’s sweetest experiences.

Our journey toward perfection is long, but we can find wonder and delight in even the tiniest steps in that journey."

Your spiritual thought for the day

2011-10-10T10:26:00.002-04:00

from pres uchtdorf's sat am general conference address.
oh how i love that man.
and how i need this today.

My dear brothers and sisters, it may be true that man is nothing in comparison to the greatness of the universe. At times we may even feel insignificant, invisible, alone, or forgotten. But always remember—you matter to Him! If you ever doubt that, consider these four divine principles:

First, God loves the humble and meek, for they are “greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”¹⁷

Second, the Lord entrusts “the fulness of [His] gospel [to] be proclaimed by the weak and the simple unto the ends of the world.”¹⁸ He has chosen “the weak things of the world [to] come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones”¹⁹ and to put to shame “the things which are mighty.”²⁰

Third, no matter where you live, no matter how humble your circumstances, how meager your employment, how limited your abilities, how ordinary your appearance, or how little your calling in the Church may appear to you, you are not invisible to your Heavenly Father. He loves you. He knows your humble heart and your acts of love and kindness. Together, they form a lasting testimony of your fidelity and faith.

Fourth and finally, please understand that what you see and experience now is not what forever will be. You will not feel loneliness, sorrow, pain, or discouragement forever. We have the faithful promise of God that He will neither forget nor forsake those who incline their hearts to Him.²¹ Have hope and faith in that promise. Learn to love your Heavenly Father and become His disciple in word and in deed.

Be assured that if you but hold on, believe in Him, and remain faithful in keeping the commandments, one day you will experience for yourselves the promises revealed to the Apostle Paul: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”²²

Brothers and sisters, the most powerful Being in the universe is the Father of your spirit. He knows you. He loves you with a perfect love.

God sees you not only as a mortal being on a small planet who lives for a brief season—He sees you as His child. He sees you as the being you are capable and designed to become. He wants you to know that you matter to Him.

I sense a troublemaker...

2011-10-10T07:28:00.001-04:00

...in the making.


Yes, there are toys all around... But L only wants the DVDs.

Working on "fixing" her stroller.
(Note: I did not include pictures of L unrolling floor mats, squeezing herself under chairs, trying to eat various cords in the house, or trying to make it into the bathroom or coat closet.)

L is so happy now that she can scoot around.

I'm not even sure it's worth baby-proofing most things, since we have everything out pretty much in the open (not much storage in the kitchen, for example).

I guess that means I'll be getting more exercise! Score.

P.S. I like that the DVDs she pulled off the shelf are Harry Potter.

Children

2011-10-09T13:31:00.000-04:00

I've been reflecting lately on how the Lord seems to always want to teach me patience.

Patience in figuring out my major in college.
Patience in figuring out a career (still doing that, actually).

Patience in dating & finally getting married.

Patience in waiting for the right time to have a child.

Patience with myself, my shortcomings, my natural & baser tendencies.
Patience with family & friends, sometimes.
Patience with a very sweet & hilarious, yet stubborn & willful, child.

I have such a desire to develop patience, kindness, love & charity, and lately, I've not been doing such a good job. Therefore, I'm so thankful that I have great examples in my life - present & not-so-present - of great sacrifice, love, and yes, patience. These people teach me to strive harder & remember the big picture.

Even my sweet little teething beastie.

President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008): “Never forget that these little ones are the sons and daughters of God and that yours is a custodial relationship to them, that He was a parent before you were parents and that He has not relinquished His parental rights or interest in these His little ones. … Rear your children in love, in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Take care of your little ones. Welcome them into your homes, and nurture and love them with all of your hearts. They may do, in the years that come, some things you would not want them to do, but be patient, be patient. You have not failed as long as you have tried” (“Words of the Living Prophet,” Liahona, May 1998, 26–27; “Excerpts from Recent Addresses of President Gordon B. Hinckley,” Ensign, July 1997, 73).

Teething

2011-10-09T13:21:00.000-04:00

Does anyone else remember having (or currently has) a kid who is mean, cranky & feverish while teething? Seems like my sister's kids were pretty mild when it came to teething.

Meanwhile, Libbie is moody, boiling hot, fighting naps/night sleep & eating (she will only eat bottles lately). I just didn't know if it's teething (I do see a new tooth coming in up top), or if there's something else going on...or both.

J's new favorite dinner

2011-10-08T14:29:00.004-04:00

Tropical pizza -

Boboli crust (or your own homemade)
1/2 green pepper
1/2 red pepper
onion (optional)
mango & peach chipotle salsa
swiss cheese
monterey jack cheese

450 degrees for about 10-12 minutes.
A little spicy for me, but he looooooves it.

I'm so proud

2011-10-06T18:20:00.000-04:00

I caught the child rockin' out to Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" in the car.
I mean, full on shaking her head & waving her hands.
It made me love her even more.

Goals...

2011-10-06T12:47:00.002-04:00

...to strive for.

A post script

2011-10-06T12:46:00.000-04:00

I love my kid.
Really, I do.

I just had a hard day with her yesterday.

Luckily, today, she seems to be feeling much better.

And I am trying to learn to count my blessings instead of getting frustrated with L.
Normally, I do pretty well.
It's just...yesterday, after many hours of crying & whining & clinginess & literally 20 minutes total in naps...I was done.

Today, we're both doing much better.

Lesson for the day:
Do not publish - or even write - a post when you are frustrated with a teething child.

Some days...

2011-10-05T16:19:00.002-04:00

...I have no desire to have any more kids.
Today is one of those days.
Sad.

Happy bday, big bro

2011-10-04T07:20:00.002-04:00

I love you.

Progress

2011-10-02T11:19:00.004-04:00

Scootin' & movin'

2011-10-02T10:56:00.002-04:00

General Conference weekend

2011-10-02T10:41:00.002-04:00

We were lucky to have a visit from my parents this weekend, General Conference weekend.

(My parents are awesome - they come see us every so often, and I love it. I know we probably won't be near family in a couple of years when Jared is graduated & doing his residency wherever, so I really appreciate it now...especially when we don't have to go visit them all the time - they come sometimes too.)

Libbie is obsessed with our armchair.
Specifically, the corner, where she can kiss it. Funny kid.

Posing.

Beauty shot.

Trying to get into Grandma T & Papa Wayne's cooler.
This kid is curious about everything.

Trying to walk - already!

Trying on shoes to help with the walking.

Papa Wayne and Grandma T.
(Dad's actually fine with Grandpa-or really, whatever the kids want to call him-but all the little grand kids so far like to call him Papa. And since we've got two of those, they're now Papa Wayne & Papa Jeff.)

Hi, Grandma.

Poor teething beastie.
Grandparents still love her, though.


Hooray - a family picture! I love that my parents remember to do this. Otherwise, Jared & Libbie are my unwilling (and sometimes uncooperative) subjects. Mwahahahaha.

Food for thought

2011-10-01T09:44:00.000-04:00

Found this here.

One day at a time

2011-09-30T15:14:00.000-04:00

Found two more quotes to share:

"Parents must bring light and truth into their homes by one family prayer, one scripture study session, one family home evening, one book read aloud, one song, and one family meal at a time. They know that the influence of righteous, conscientious, persistent, daily parenting is among the most powerful and sustaining forces for good in the world. The health of any society, the happiness of its people, their prosperity, and their peace all find common roots in the teaching of children in the home." -Elder L. Tom Perry

"I stand in awe when I consider the great confidence Heavenly Father has placed in you and me when he allows us the privilege of being the mortal fathers and mothers to his eternal spirit offspring. We must never forget that he has a vested interest in every one of us, and we must realize how important each human soul is in God’s eternal plan. When we understand the importance of each soul, we can go before him confidently in prayer to seek his guidance and direction in our sacred assignment as parents. ...Remember, eternity is now, not a vague, distant future. We prepare each day, right now, for eternal life. If we are not preparing for eternal life, we are preparing for something else, perhaps something far less." -Elder Russell M. Ballard

Early childhood mothering

2011-09-30T14:51:00.002-04:00

This post on being home & early mothering was awesome.

A couple of favorites:

It's not so much all about us anymore, and what we want, and who we want to see. We live in a time when I think we have been fed this belief that we deserve to be totally happy and fulfilled constantly. Emotional entitlement, in a way. I read article and article about how we need to take care of ourselves, and find out what makes us happy. We deserve to be fulfilled, we are not our best for our children unless we are. That might be true in a way, but I also don't think we have to be willing to sacrifice what is best for the loves of our lives, our children, before we subscribe to this belief that all this happiness, self-care, fulfillment is "out there" somewhere, with our children far away, and us gone from our homes. We can find it in our homes, if we are willing to look! A quote hanging on my son's desk says, "The best way out is always through." I take that to mean stop looking for ways around it all, and just stick your head in it, stick your heart in it, and work through it. It's the only way to real true accomplishment, whether that involves the completion of a math project, or emotional growth and maturation in the most important role of our lives, that as mother.

"We all know that the early years of our children’s lives are precious. It is when they are most teachable, impressionable and open to true and erroneous teaching. Our society in a rush to success encourages us as mothers to send our children from the home earlier and earlier, to involve them in more and more activities. Too often we forget that the most important preparation for success is in the home under the nurturing care of the mother. That preparation takes time, long stretches of time filled with the consistent, everyday activity of home life.

The time we have with our little ones is short and should be guarded carefully."

Kimberli Robison

Happy bday, grandma M

2011-09-28T20:27:00.001-04:00

You're 88 today!

And I sure love you.