The Adventures of Emma Lucille

Midnight Again?

2011-03-23T00:42:00.000-06:00

It's 12:33 am and I'm awake. Not that I can't fall asleep, I just haven't pulled myself off this couch to crawl downstairs yet. I've not been great about going to sleep at a decent time lately (thanks, Spring Break) and haven't really done much to change this bad habit yet. So, what am I doing? I'm blogging, for goodness sake.

Since my last appointment with my doctor, I've been a little preoccupied with the "what-if's" and have finally come to the realization that, quite frankly, things are going pretty stinkin' well right now for me and my family and that I have so much to be thankful for that mourning over something that I can't change is actually taking me several steps backwards.

We all have our own challenges in life, right? I figure that knowing right now what I'll most likely have to deal with later on will help me be more prepared, right?

...Right?

This Time Around

2011-03-07T22:27:00.000-07:00

It's quiet here, at roughly 10pm on a Monday night. Mark is exhausted, sleeping on the couch and Emma is asleep downstairs. I'm the only one awake right now, and it's so calm and quiet (aside from my lingering cough), that I actually felt compelled to write something. Something... "Facebook?" I think to myself. "No, that's not the right place for real thoughts."

It snowed today. Not those tiny, light little flakes, but the huge, fat flakes that let you know Mother Nature is serious this time around. The ground, trees and buildings are covered in snow, as if everything had been sprayed with the coating on the Frosted Mini-Wheats cereal, in a Candyland-sort of way and it's mesmerizing just to watch the snow sparkle under the light from the streetlights.

Today has brought two very real, very emotional moments. This is not a pity party, just a way to help me digest the news. I had my follow-up visit with my neurologist today and the results from my latest MRI show that my disease has stabilized and there is no new activity. This information is HUGE. This means that my medication is working and that until something even more effective comes alone, this is what I'll be sticking with to make sure I can function normally.

The second realization came after I talked with my doctor for a few minutes to ascertain whether (at some point down the road) the risks of going off of this medication for a short time in order to attempt one more pregnancy were low enough to entertain the idea of having one more child. Unfortunately, due to the severity of the post-partum flare I experienced after Emma was born, he is not confident that it would be worth the risk. The same time period in which the medication would become fully effective again is the same time frame in which (in the doc's words) "the $*** hits the fan." What good am I if I can't take care of my own children? So, we may be seriously considering adoption in a few years. I refuse to risk my health in order to try to be like everyone else. Besides, if we do adopt, I won't have to worry about losing any baby weight! ;-)

If anyone actually reads this, I'd sure appreciate any information regarding adoption that has proven helpful!

Glasses and Popcorn

2010-01-13T00:40:00.002-07:00

Emma's been astounding us for the last couple months with the words, phrases and sentences that just seem to keep falling out of her mouth. Yes, I wish I'd somehow recorded when she started saying different things, but to be honest I'd not even thought about it until now. I'm just going to start listing things she says until I can't think of any more and will most likely pick it up in the near future when more come to mind. (Please keep in mind that this is for all intents and purposes, a 20 month old who doesn't say her "l"s or "r"s very well.)

Apple, airplane, baby, ball, balloon (ok, try saying that without the l's and you get baoon - that's about right), banana, bath, bathroom, bear, bed, bee, berry, Big Bird, blanket (everything but the l!), book, boots, broom, brush, bye bye, cat, Caillou (if you don't know, look it up), car, carrot, cheese, church, clock, corn, cracker, Daddy, down, drum, doll, donkey, duck, Elliott (a cousin), Elmo (cringe), egg, Ernie (ok, ok), eye, fish, glasses, grapes, goodnight, Grandma, Grover, hat, head, home, Hunter (another cousin), I, kayak, kick, kite, lamp, light, Mama, milk, moon, Nick (yet another cousin), no, nose, orange, ouch, pail, peas, piano, plate, play, plum, popcorn, pull, room, rug, shoe, sit, sleep, snow, sock, teeth, tent, Thomas, train, tummy, up, walk, you

This is a list of roughly 75 - 80 words and names. The list excludes the animal sounds she knows and several, if not many, of the words listed above are not pronounced perfectly. However, I'm under the impression that most people talking with her would understand her when she says those words. I could be wrong, I could even be delusional. Either way, I'm impressed. No wonder this walking business is taking a little while!

Less Frustrations!

2010-01-10T19:02:00.000-07:00

I feel the winds a-changing, my friends. Most of you are already keenly aware of my efforts this last year to find a job so that Mark can just go to school and then be Mr. Mom when he's not in class. Those 7 months were incredibly frustrating, as I mentioned in my last post. If you've never been searching for a job for that long or even longer (which I'd not experienced myself up until then), you start questioning your once-confident, can-do, capable self until you're this small. By mid-December, I was really wondering if I could ever find anything at all.

Then an angel came (cue harps) and said, "Jennifer, would you like to work for me this next tax season?"

Wait - I'm not used to being approached with job offers anymore. This doesn't happen. Not after so many "We've chosen another applicant" -type responses from the dozens of positions I'd applied for. I was just getting the hang of dealing with the disappointment when I now had the opportunity to accept a position? What do I say? Luckily for me, I had just purchased The Big Book of How to Say It a few days before. I'm serious. I actually was at such a loss for words, that I had to look up "acceptance" to remember how to graciously accept a position. Phew.

Yesterday was my first paid day of work since April 2008. Ok, it was just a few hours of orientation, but STILL - I will get paid! Two years ago, I probably would have viewed this kind of job as JUST part-time, seasonal - but today, I view it as more than just a little extra income. This is an opportunity to move in the right direction, get some relevant work experience and of course, network.

Hmm, it's getting a little windy...

Have a Crazy, Happy New Year!

2009-12-29T18:49:00.008-07:00

I must apologize for the quality of any photos I post. Apparently, I'm still learning how to get things just right. It's now the end of the year and I haven't posted a thing since July. Craziness and frustrations and happy times have all been had since then.

I'm doing pretty well as far as the whole MS thing goes, started a new med a few months ago and have noticed a drastic improvement. Yay, happy times.

I've been looking for work so that Mark can concentrate solely on his education since May with few real prospects as of right now, but I'm optimistic about the coming weeks and months. Frustrations.

Craziness is what happens in between. Life just has a way of throwing me new challenges that keep me on my toes (even when I can't feel them). Heartbreak and mayhem seem to come right along with those moments that I never want to end. Hence, this is craziness.

Wishing all a prosperous new year and may we all accomplish something this next year that we haven't been so sure we could.

See? Emma grew a head of hair!

Emma's sick, here's a happy picture

2009-07-14T23:00:00.003-06:00

For the last few days, Emma has not been feeling well. I won't go into the details, but trust me - she's got a little bit of a bug. As we've been treating the bug, she's been pretty great, but will have some moments where it's clear she's not feeling 100% yet. She's been very healthy so far, so this is a part of parenting that is especially hard right now. As I was looking through some random files, I found this picture and it made me smile. It captures her personality so well and reminded me that this illness will pass.

Ok, not trying to be cheesy about being happy in times of trial, but I had to brag about actually getting a picture of a rainbow. No big deal for the rest of the general population, I'm sure, but I thought it was worth sharing.

The famous Aunt Kim came to visit for a few days on her way back to Michigan again this year. Emma enjoyed spending time with her very much. I'm sure it was great for her to be able to play with somebody on the same level as her for once!

Sorry Kim, the lighting wasn't so hot in this shot. Wish I knew how to use PhotoShop, but this old Mac wouldn't even run it. Or iLife. Or much of anything at this point.... But hey, at least we have a cuddly picture of Emma!

Sabbatical Over

2009-07-08T01:43:00.002-06:00

My unwired "sabbatical" will have to end pretty soon, I think. I've been relatively silent these last few weeks on this blog and Facebook/Twitter as I've been spending my time searching for work. It looks hopeful, but I don't want to jinx it by saying too much about how things are going in that endeavor. I will say, however, that it's been nice not spending several hours every day on the computer (I still spend a little while online, just to work on my LinkedIn profile and send/check emails, but that's pretty much it). I get to spend more time with Emma one on one, instead of just letting her do her thing and hoping that she doesn't mind my not paying a lot of attention to her. I feel like a better mom, too.

Perhaps I'm trying to compensate for my impending absence when I do start working full-time, but I really do feel like I've gotten to a point where watching TV and/or movies to keep her entertained really isn't necessary right now. Trust me, we've been there already! In fact, I'm learning that Emma would really just prefer to spend time with ME, not Curious George or Animal Planet. I've also learned that rolling around on the floor with my baby is FUN! It makes me feel like a kid again, but that's probably not too far of a stretch of the imagination in the first place.

I'm going to miss doing these things while I'm at work VERY MUCH, but knowing that my DH will be around most of the time helps very much (he'll be finishing his degree and going to school full-time). It is not very common for the father to get this chance to be the primary caretaker in our society. I know that with a little training, he'll be great and will be able to form a bond with her that is somewhat uncommon for fathers to have with their children.

My ending thought is this: those of you with children, try spending one day "unplugged". No TV, movies, or computers (cell phones are ok - we do need to communicate somehow, right??) and see how your children enjoy spending time with YOU! It may seem to backfire if they'd prefer to watch an episode of "Martha Speaks" instead of read a book with you, but I'd venture a guess and say they'll probably enjoy the book.

Birthday Pictures

2009-05-26T11:16:00.006-06:00

Yes, these pictures are a little late, but Emma doesn't mind. She's too busy trying to walk and talk to care about posting her birthday pictures. We did remove her helmet for her birthday party, but she's still wearing it. Two more weeks, and it's off - I don't care what the doc says!

A Giveaway, You Say?

2009-05-25T11:59:00.003-06:00

When I was little, I loved making forts out of blankets and chairs. Who didn't? It was the coolest thing, this little world I could make just for myself and whomever I wanted in there. In just a few minutes' time, this fort could be constructed, removed and reconstructed in a new place. Well, the giveaway isn't for a blanket fort, but for a wooden toy stove and oven, complete with utensils and food! This was my sister's realm, still very cool. Take a look here for details on how to enter. Good luck!

Captions Needed

2009-05-13T17:47:00.006-06:00

I've posted 10 pictures of Emma in reverse chronological order, from the most recent to the uh, least recent. Only I know the stories behind the pictures, but I'm tired of explaining. Maybe it would be more fun if I didn't explain, but just let people post their own version of what is happening in each photo. I'll review the comments and edit this post with the best captions. Aunt Kim, this is a perfect opportunity for you! (hint, hint)

This tree's for you, Baby Love

2009-04-23T18:48:00.005-06:00

I (*pant*) planted a peach tree today. Yep, you heard me right. I planted a peach (*pant*) tree. I dug the hole, fussed with the rocks (not pebbles, ROCKS) that apparently are the next layer of earth after the very dry, sandy topsoil, lugged the multiple bags of peat, compost and topsoil from behind the house to the front where the tree was to be planted, because of course, the wheelbarrow has a flat tire (a flat tire??? really now...), pulled the tree out of its pot and into the hole and then played with aforementioned materials so that it would look pretty and stay healthy. Heck, it's even staked on three sides. This puppy is not going anywhere... not without a permission slip. I only mention this because I may not be able to do this when you're a teenager. But hey, that's what you'll be doing at that point and I can tell you how you don't have enough water, or soil or whatever else you'll be working with because that's what moms are for. This tree should provide a lot of fruit in a couple years and we'll be up to our eyes in peaches. But that's ok. When we come to visit Grandma later on, you'll be excited to see the peach tree that Mom planted all by herself. At least, you'd better pretend to be excited or Mom will be sad.

The Source

2009-04-02T22:44:00.001-06:00

If anybody has heard the funny little squeaks and jabbering in the background while talking to me on the phone, here's the source!

The Cottage Cheese Adventure

2009-03-30T18:21:00.000-06:00

...And no, I'm not referring to the appearance of certain body parts. Today was the first (and last...for a while) attempt at feeding Emma cottage cheese. Oh, it's not that she didn't like it. In fact, I think she liked it a bit too much! Little bits of cottage cheese curds ended up in many places I'm wishing they hadn't. However, she enjoyed it and is even learning to use a spoon. We even have a chant: "Put the food on the spoon and put the spoon in the mouth..." We'll see if I can get a video of this, but I highly doubt it.

On a different note, I believe I owe a few people a picture or two...

Greetings, Earthlings!

I have no idea what she just ate, but such a serious look!

Her first attempt at sitting in the snow didn't quite work, but hey! Cute snowsuit!

I'm hidin in mai snoesoot...

Fred, this is for you. Thank you again for the toy, she still loves it!

PowerPay to the People!

2009-03-15T01:04:00.000-06:00

I realize that title is goofy, but it's alliteration...sort of. I found a website that helps figure out how soon you can get that new whatchamacallit, how much you'll earn by saving x dollars per time increment, and most importantly, how soon you can get out of debt. Very nifty, I must say (and also quite encouraging!)

You can access the site here.

Ten months and counting

2009-03-15T00:55:00.000-06:00

Emma turned 10 months yesterday. Crazy. I found myself talking about what we could do for her 1st birthday. I know I don't have a choice about this, but my baby girl is growing up! I can already see the glimmer of toddler-hood in her eye and the independence that comes along with it. Oh well, lots of pictures to come. I promise.

Not yet

2009-03-13T11:31:00.002-06:00

I'm tired. If you noticed the time I posted my last little "hey world, I'm still here" bit, and then add an hour or two, that's when I finally went to bed. Nuts. I don't want to go all the way upstairs to get the camera, wait for the pictures to load and then take the time to get them on the blog. Nope, sorry, ain't gonna happen today. I still have to go to the grocery store and get a few things and then we're off to Jon and Allison's for a little while. You see, it WAS my birthday this last Wednesday and I want to get out of the house today. So, adios and I'll be back when I'll be back!

Wait, it's been THAT long?

2009-03-13T01:46:00.002-06:00

I completely realize that it's very late and I really shouldn't be on here. However, I feel I should announce that...(no Kim, we're not expecting)... I will be continuing the blog. Not like there was any question whether I'd continue it, I just realized that it's been almost an entire month since my last post. It's not like things haven't happened, I just haven't had the energy to post and get pictures on the computer and the like. Lazy. That's what it is. And I'll continue along that path for as long as I say so because it's MY blog and nobody's paying me, so there. Now, I'm going to bed to get some rest before posting my guts out in the morning out of sheer guilt! Goodnight. :)

Lazy or just comfy?

2009-02-13T12:42:00.000-07:00

I need a little feedback on this one. Every so often, and sometimes more often than not, I'm finding myself keeping Emma in her sleeper all day if we don't go out. She doesn't walk yet, and it can get a little chilly when she's playing on the floor. The sleeper is comfy and warm, yet not too warm so I end up keeping her in that so I don't have to fight with keeping socks on all the time. Is this bad/lazy parenting or just practical? You decide.

Back to our regular programming

2009-02-11T17:25:00.005-07:00

After receiving a note of disappointment that I had not yet updated my blog with more pictures of darling Emma, I realized that yes, it had been too long. (Oh thank you, wise sister.) So sorry to have kept you waiting, please enjoy the following pictures of our Little Miss.

Happy now?

Free: One sample of some rockin' good stuff

2009-02-10T13:39:00.087-07:00

All of those who know me, know that I'm a pretty low-maintenance type of person. I don't take two hours to get ready for the day, nor do I wear a lot of jewelry (not that jewelry is a BAD thing, by any means!). However, when I was living in Las Vegas, a friend of mine introduced me to a company called Arbonne. They had great products that I felt good using - from their sea salt scrub and lotions to their baby care line and even their anti-aging line (I know, I know... I'm still in my 20's, but it still felt really nice). Even my husband enjoyed using their men's skin care line. I'm not quite sure why I didn't do much with the company at that point...maybe it was my crazy schedule and the laziness that I constantly battled when I wasn't at work or school.

Well, things have changed a little for me these days. I'm not in school or working right now, and as much as I love being able to be at home with Emma (see earlier posts for cute pictures), we are being affected by this down economy. I hate knowing that I have marketable skills and could probably find an ok job to help make things a little more comfortable for us, but would have to be away from her for 40+ hours a week. I don't like the idea of day care right now and so, remembering how great the Arbonne products were, I looked up my local Arbonne representative. I talked with her for a while and did a little brainstorming of my own to figure out if I could really make this work for me. For whatever reason, I just felt like I needed to try.

Well, here I am with some samples. I'm looking for one person who is willing to try the NutriminC RE9 anti-aging skin care line and then let me know what you think. It's probably more appropriate for more "mature" skin, so keep that in mind. Just leave a comment with your name and email address from today until Friday the 13th and I'll contact you to get your mailing information.

I'll be posting about other samples as they come through in the future. Please also keep in mind that I will not be trying to hard sell anything, just letting people know what's out there. If you like it, great. If not, that's also fine.

Fascination or infatuation?

2009-02-03T11:39:00.004-07:00

I have never enjoyed shopping. As a teenager, I would look at a store full of clothing and none of it would be "me." My mother does not enjoy shopping with me. If it's not the way it looks or fits, it's the price. I can spend 5 hours at the mall and come away with four items. However, now that we have Emma, I'm a sucker for cute baby clothes even if we're fully stocked for a specific size. If it weren't for the fact that I've gotten pretty good at sticking to a budget these days, I'm sure I'd be spending quite a bit on clothes and accessories that she'd probably only wear two or three times. Sad, I know.

These days, I've been stalking eBay and other websites to check out their BabyLegs. Emma has a few onesies with ruffles on the bum, so wearing pants doesn't make sense, but she should have something on her legs during winter. Hence, BabyLegs and the like.

Video killed the radio star

2009-01-29T22:19:00.006-07:00

Okie dokie! I've finally gotten this video posting thing figured out - I think. Let me know how it goes on the other end!

Don't call me Sparkles

2009-01-29T01:13:00.011-07:00

I can see clearly out of both eyes again. Just thought I'd celebrate the little things. Thank heavens for steroids and flu-like symptom-inducing self-injectable biopharmaceuticals.

Just have to take a moment to step back and say, "whew!"

Catching up from Christmas

2009-01-26T23:30:00.001-07:00

I must really be the worst blogger in existence. Or maybe, this isn't really a blog and more of an online scrapbook where pictures and blurbs are posted when I get around to it and not right when the events have taken place. Hey, yeah! That's it! Heh. Either way, we had my sister-in-law, her husband and their 4 children here for a little over a week for Christmas. It was really great seeing them again. I did manage to take a few pictures. I apologize ahead of time for the graininess (sp?) of some of the shots. I'm trying to learn more about my camera and what the settings do and some of the shots didn't turn out as well as I'd hoped. Also, not all of these pictures are from the holiday, so just enjoy the show.

... I feel I should take a moment to explain...
I did not put that dog on top of her. Mark called me over to see what she had done, and I happened to have my camera nearby. The dog was removed as soon as this picture was taken.

Self-portrait?

Crash Test Emma

2009-01-20T21:31:00.002-07:00

In keeping with the actual theme of this blog, Emma has embarked on a new adventure - the orthotic helmet. I could go into what the helmet does and why she needs it, but I'll give you all a short explanation that you can all Google afterwards. Plagiocephaly.

Take that, Sportsfan!

2009-01-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

I am married to a sports-a-holic. There. I said it. No matter what sport it is, he will watch it, choose a team to root for and then I get to figure out what is going on when he's talking about somebody getting a "safety" or something silly like that. Friday night, however, we watched the Florida Gators and some team from Oklahoma (?). The commentator kept mentioning the Florida coach's name (Urban Meyer) and I kept thinking,"I know that name from somewhere, don't I?" ...and then it came to me. He used to be the U of U football coach before he was at Florida. I mentioned that to hubby, and he kept on saying that no, Meyer's been at Florida for a while, he couldn't have come from Utah. HAH!!

Near the end of the game, the 'tater did mention that Meyer did come from Utah. Not bad, eh? I mean, I am soooo not the sports buff here. I was just so impressed with my ability to spout off irrelevant sporting information that I'm even writing about it. Well, thanks for letting me revel in my conquest, and now back to our regular programming.

My brother has a JOB!!!!!!

2008-12-18T10:53:00.002-07:00

Happy times, happy times. My brother who just graduated from BYU-Idaho with a degree in geology just got his first, real (not student-type) job! He'll be moving to Denver (still not too far away) and will start next month. The biggest reason this is so important is that his son will be born in February or March and they've already got a little girl. His wife has been going nuts (understandably so) this last month or so not knowing where they would be living and where they'd get the money for it, among other things.

I am so excited for them! Yay Matt!!

You don't have to read this. This is for therapy reasons only.

2008-12-11T15:01:00.003-07:00

I haven't talked about the fact that I have ms (multiple sclerosis) much at all on this blog. The reason for that is that I don't do very well with keeping posts upbeat while trying to explain that I can't feel my feet, legs, my right side AND my memory continues to fail me more and more. I am beginning to feel like I have somebody else's brain in my body. I am not ME anymore. At least, not right now. I seem to recall being somewhat intelligent and remembering small details. Now, I can't seem to have a conversation without forgetting the words I want to use, and remembering what the other person just said a few sentences ago is almost impossible.

Maybe the worst part about this realization is that my husband, who has become accustomed to my past ability to think through things intelligently, is now struggling with the idea that things will never be like they once were. He will need to take on more of that role in our marriage and I know there will be some growing pains associated with that task.

I think I've been in a sort of denial regarding my diagnosis. My symptoms went away when I got pregnant last year with Emma. I felt great! I felt NORMAL. Some symptoms did eventually return in September, but I knew that was a possibility since post-partum flare-ups are common. I was ok with that. I went to a great neurologist in SLC, started a treatment plan and am in the process of getting everything checked out to see where I'm at. This is ok, too. I can't begin to express my gratefulness that this part of the country has good MS doctors. Even the nurse at the infusion center was encouraging when I asked her if she had heard of my doctor. She said that as far as MS treatments were concerned, she considered him to be the bible. Certainly can't complain there!

I guess the reason I'm taking up space on my otherwise-happy blog, is that I needed to vent. I needed a little therapy. I got scared last night when I slipped on a stair and finally realized that this disease is real. Multiple sclerosis is not a pretty thing, but neither are so many other conditions and diseases that I thankfully do not have.

Picture Update!

2008-12-04T11:33:00.008-07:00

I have been sooo delinquent in posting pictures lately, it's sad. I have been home from Michigan for just about a month now, and no pictures even from that trip! I'll try to keep things in chronological order.

Aunt Kim really does love her nieces. She just pretends to be nervous when she plays with them.

See? Heh.

Aaah! Flying baby! The poor kid doesn't even know what's going on. I'm not sure what's more entertaining...the scary mascara Kim-face or the nondescript look on Emma's face.
It's baby Pilates!

Those eyes!

Even though I hadn't originally planned for Emma to have a costume this Halloween, we were invited to a Halloween party at the last minute. This sock monkey costume is the only costume Target had that would even fit the poor child. It's a good thing she can pull off "sock monkey", huh?

There were three bumble bees at the party. He was very cute and just had the most amazing eyes. You'd think I like eyes, huh?

The fire pit area doesn't really LOOK significant at first, but I grew up here having a playground/swing/slide thingy. This summer, my dad and brother finally took it down after having it for 16 years. The evening after my grandfather's funeral, the entire clan had fire roasted hot dogs and s'mores here. No tears allowed.

I like the Michigan sky with our birch trees reminding me that this is Fall.

Sir Gnome and his amazingly smaller door. Gnomes are magical creatures, so the door makes perfect sense, right? (Plus, I'm not sure my mom checked the size of each before she ordered them.)

MowMow keeps watch.

I've always liked this picture of my parents. I have no idea when this was taken, but I like it.

I took pictures of the pictures my parents had in their house. This is my brother, his wife and their now almost 18-month-old. There are more pictures of the latter two later.

My mom grew up having this green hurricane lamp by the front window of her house. As far as I'm aware, they would have it turned on every night. After my grandfather passed this October, my mom has been pretty faithful in turning the lamp on at night.

I have never seen so many wild turkeys. We just didn't live in the right part of town to come across them, I guess. They don't scare easily.

One of my favorite places in Midland is Dow Gardens. I grew up looking at pictures of myself near this very waterfall and other various sites within the gardens.

Again, part of the gardens.

Oh. Not all part of the gardens. My mom wasn't even 2 weeks out after her back surgery and she was able to walk around for 20-30 minutes. I'm very grateful that she was able to go with me while I was there.

So, it was October and there is a greenhouse on the grounds. With tropical birds, nonetheless. It was a nice change from the cool breeze outside.

Do not be fooled by the soft, fluffy doggie. This was one of the FEW moments that she wasn't trying to munch on Emma's fingers or toes.

See what an attention hog she is? ...the dog, not the baby.

My 16 year old brother, Sean has got to be near 6'4" if not taller. He inherited my mother's hair. (See picture above at Dow Gardens.)

Just a cute pink picture, that's all.

The next several pictures were taken shortly after Emma turned 6 months old. She was so happy after her bath, that I snapped a few before moving on to pj's and bedtime.

As mentioned above, this is my sister-in-law and niece with Emma. The cousins really seemed to enjoy each other.

Erin really loves her Memma.

Wha-what? What is this look on Erin? Brittanie, you may want to keep an extra eye out for this one. She looks like she's got something up her sleeve. Or maybe in her diaper.

My mom bought the cousins matching overalls that say "Little Dear" with an embroidered Bambi. A little goofy, but we got the pictures every grandparent drools over. Right?

Poor Emma. Everybody left.

It's getting to be that time again.

2008-11-21T13:17:00.002-07:00

Time for this year's family gift exchange planning already? I (in my infinite wisdom) suggested to my mom that my family exchange gifts that did not cost anything except for the postage. In doing this, I thought that it would be financially easier on the three older kids (like myself). Unfortunately, I have absolutely no idea what to do for my person. I won't mention who it is since my family does occasionally read this poor semblance of a blog. - did I even say that right?? Besides, something that isn't store-bought means more since you actually have to think about it and make it or whatever you're going to do, right?

If anybody has any ideas or neat websites I could get ideas from, please post a comment! Maybe you'll get something from me, too!

Missing Michigan

2008-11-15T23:55:00.003-07:00

I'm back. I did not get abducted by aliens, nor did I take a month-long vacation in Europe. I don't think I would have complained about the latter, though. I did, however, spend three weeks in Michigan and am still trying to convince my husband that we should seriously consider moving back as soon as we can. He's humoring me right now since he knows I just miss my family and it would be a while before it would be possible to do so anyway. I don't have pictures uploaded to the computer yet, so, in true Jenny fashion, I'll post pictures later.

I was pleased with Emma's ability to adapt to layovers and early departure times for the trip out and back. Unfortunately, I can't say that adapting to the respective time zones was easy. She's not been sleeping as long as she had in the past and has been more agitated than usual. I'm not sure if this is a growth spurt (she just turned six months on Friday) or if she's teething, or possibly both! Or maybe she's sleeping less just because that's what happens when babies get older. I don't have a clue!

(muttering)... I'll just have to dig out my "What to Expect the First Year."

Redemption!

2008-10-13T01:24:00.008-06:00

Here they are, folks. I did what I said I would and got even better pictures this morning than I would have last night. Mark got me upstairs with a frantic "It's snowing! Come up here now!" So, I dutifully grabbed my camera and snapped these in my pj's and slippers. See? I even took a picture of my slippers to prove it to you!

The park across the street is even better with snow. It would have been fun to make snowmen, but poor Mark had a cold so we stayed inside today.

The left Pooh ran away with the right Piglet. So, these two have made the best of things.

These are our ghosts of gardening past. Well, actually, just the tomatoes taking a pre-winter nap.

Big, fat snowflakes!

Oh, c'mon. You had to know by now that I can't NOT post a picture of her! Just look at those eyelashes.

Snowy in October

2008-10-11T22:54:00.004-06:00

It actually snowed today. Not stick to the ground snow, but enough to remind me what snow is after living in Las Vegas for the last 6 1/2 years. It was really nice. I was a bum and didn't take a picture; so, in true Jenny fashion, I'll post a picture or two after I've made the announcement that something interesting happened. I need to work on my blog-master skills. *sigh* At least I'm keeping up with posting things, right?

I covered the garden yesterday and I'm hoping that most of the tomatoes and onions make it. I'm doubtful on the cantaloupe as it is quite late in the season. The basil has been transplanted into a pot for winter and we have a cutting of rhubarb that we will try to keep alive until we can plant it in the garden next spring. OH! I just realized that if I want tulips and crocus', I'd best get cracking on planting the bulbs this week before I fly out to Michigan!

Ok, all you gardeners out there (or really, anybody who actually reads my blog), vote for your favorite color of tulip and I may plant it.

Sooooo Tired

2008-10-08T23:34:00.003-06:00

We had a long day. My mother-in-law felt up to going out to Wal-Mart with me today to pick up her prescription and a "few" other things. We ended up being out for a couple hours getting things for the house and some groceries. Little Emma was such a trooper. She smiled and gurgled as we continued to search aisle by aisle for the items we needed - and then, after returning home, she crashed.

Picture Time

2008-10-08T15:28:00.005-06:00

I've really gotten stuck on taking pictures of Emma. Anything and everything if it's at least remotely cute. If I had more kids, then there'd be some variety. As it is now, this is what I've got.

Still Here

2008-10-08T14:41:00.003-06:00

I'm still in Utah. I had been planning on going out to Michigan today, but alas, the trip has been postponed yet again. As far as I know, I'll be leaving on the 21st and returning the 5th. Emma will have her first Halloween in Michigan, away from her Daddy. It'd be great if he could come too, but he can't really take off 2 weeks. I've not yet decided what she'll be, or if there would even be a reason to have her dress up.

Mark fed Emma for the first time the other day. It was cute to see him struggle with getting her to keep her bib out of her mouth.

Don't Mind the Blabber

2008-10-03T23:58:00.002-06:00

I need to rant. I'm sorry, I don't normally publish my frustrations on the internet for the world to see, but perhaps by doing this I may get some feedback that I can use to give myself some peace (along with the deep breathing exercises, the attempts at napping with a 4 month-old and the all-around laziness that I pretend is "just taking a break for a little bit.")

So, who in the world invented $7,500 deductibles? Or even $5,000 or $2,500? Who the heck thought that it would be funny to mess with us, the consumers, and make us think that we're saving money by paying lower monthly premiums? Then if, heaven forbid, somebody needs to go to the hospital for a serious condition they can't pay the deductible! For crying out loud, what about the people who actually have a condition that could land them in the hospital if they took a temporary (or permanent) turn for the worse? We aren't dealing with auto insurance here, folks. People are MUCH more expensive to fix than a car. Ugh.

I've been aware of these kinds of policies for the last 5 or 6 years, but thought that they were few and far between - and perhaps they were at one point. Now, even my husband's employer-sponsored health plan either has incredibly high deductibles (which really don't work for me, since I have MS) or the premiums are just about equal to his weekly paycheck. And yes, I did say the premiums were weekly. Whoever we end up voting into office next month, we've got to get this healthcare stuff fixed. Along with the credit situation, education, unemployment.... Hmmm. I'll work on my Christmas list a little bit more later.

More Pictures

2008-09-30T21:24:00.005-06:00

Ok. I think I've gotten my act together with the pictures. If there is anything else I can do for you (wipe your noses or tie your shoes, etc.) please let me know and I will hop to it! Hehe...

The first three are from this evening's feeding. The rest are from earlier today. You can see I was happy the camera had new batteries!

Rice Cereal Here, Rice Cereal There

2008-09-29T23:25:00.003-06:00

Tonight Emma tried her first bit of rice cereal. I wish I could have captured her reaction to the first (and subsequent) spoonfuls, but those of you with children can imagine her scrunched up nose and raised eyebrows as to say "what in the world are you feeding me and why am I continuing to eat this?" Granted, the cereal could have been a little warmer and it was a new food....but we'd had a busy day and I didn't want to postpone bedtime much more than I already had. I'm definitely looking forward to fruits and veggies rather than plain rice or oatmeal. Oh, and Mark's days off. HIS TURN! lol

I'm sorry she's not a mess. I think some of the cereal had dried by the time I got my camera, changed the batteries and got back to her. I'll try better next time around, I promise!

In honor of...

2008-09-27T22:05:00.003-06:00

Ok. So I changed my background. It's almost October, and I'm really not sure when I'll get a chance to play with it again until Halloween. Yes, I may be THAT busy. I'll be going home to Michigan on the 7th and will return to Utah on the 24th. The trip was originally scheduled for Emma and me to leave Utah this last Thursday, but my mom's surgery was postponed until 10/8 due to a cold. Luckily for me, that means that I'll be able to stay longer than I was orginally planning on and the trip also cost $225 less than I had previously booked it for. Now, we just have to hope that my mom's cold goes away before this next surgery date. Anyway, the background is in honor of my sister and all that is Halloween.

Give Me A Sign

2008-09-26T19:58:00.002-06:00

I have been casually integrating the ASL (American Sign Language) sign for "eat" into the few things that I'd like Emma to pay attention to. She has been trying to mimic me (bringing her hands together) when I use Purell after changing her diaper, so I figured I'd give this one a try. I'm pretty sure she doesn't quite understand what it means yet, but she did make the sign yesterday! It was awesome. She actually put her hand to her mouth in the correct shape without munching on those tiny fingers. Heh. The little things keep me going.

On the flip side, not to change the subject, but I have been having an interesting time trying to get dinner ready so we aren't eating at 9pm every night whilst getting Emma ready for bed (she has her bath at 5 or 5:30, eats and then is in bed around 6 or 6:15. I've added some links to other blogs to help me and any other moms try to get the dinner thing figured out. I'll be working on some sort of crockpot or make-ahead meals for the next week. Argh. I miss Mark's cooking!

The Meeting with The Kimmy

2008-09-21T00:19:00.004-06:00

Yesterday (I'm writing this at 12:18 am, so really I should be saying Friday) Mark, Emma and I went down to SLC to see Kim just a mere hour after she arrived at her friend Fred's house in Park City after driving across country from Michigan. Of course we were excited to see her after 2 years, but I could not have predicted her reaction to meeting Emma for the first time. Kim had given Emma a dragon hat (see previous post with picture of Emma in her blessing dress with the said hat), so I thought it would be nice to let Kim and Fred see her in the hat. I put up the canopies on the stroller so as to add to the "voila" effect, and when I moved the canopies so they could see her, Kim couldn't stop laughing for at least a good couple minutes. After our difficulties growing up trying to get along or whatever we did, it meant the world to me to see my little girl so well received by my only sister. Just one more thing I'm grateful for. Thanks Kim.

Kindness Rocks!

2008-09-18T11:54:00.003-06:00

My husband's cousin has been in town for yet another funeral for a member of her mother's family. As emotionally draining I'm sure it has been for all of them, she made the time to wash, fold and bring over her daughter's old clothes (they're not that old, really). We took some time to sort the clothes last night and in the very bottom of the last bag at almost 9 pm at night, we found this! I'm working on getting a better picture of the hat in all its glory, but this will do for now.

If we don't get no tolls, we don't eat no rolls...

2008-09-16T11:23:00.003-06:00

After further consideration regarding the seasonal cinnamon roll idea, I'm thinking of going with the name Grandma Andie's Rolls. Midlanders, you may know who I'm referring to. I will be going back there next week and will consult with the cinnamon roll guru. That is, of course, after I check with the proper authorities to determine if this endeavor would even be worth it. I'm not even sure if our kitchen would even support such a thing, so I'll have to get crackin'.

As a side note, I'm finding this interesting seeing as my husband is the one with the dream of owning his own business. I'm just looking for a way to make a buck doing something I enjoy and am not completely inept at. And hey, maybe it might work?

One more thought

2008-09-15T12:55:00.002-06:00

Again with this job stuff - I'm thinking of marketing and selling cinnamon rolls and/or pies for the holidays. Not really sure if this idea will come to fruition, but just a thought. Any thoughts/tips/ideas? Anyone? Anyone? ....Bueller?

Yet another interview

2008-09-15T12:53:00.003-06:00

Although Mark starts his new job tomorrow, he is on yet another interview today. We're hoping that this one will give him more opportunities than the job he'll be starting tomorrow. At least we'll have an income once again!

Gotta do this...

2008-09-12T17:47:00.004-06:00

I've really enjoyed the small town environment we've been in since we moved to Utah in July. However, when we moved we left part of Mark's family in Las Vegas, NV and I really miss our nephews. Nick, Hunter and Trevor...this one's for you! Adam and Karen - sorry, you're great, but you've never fit on my lap or gave me goodnight hugs.

Be honest. Really.

2008-09-12T15:18:00.002-06:00

Today I had an interesting comparison made between Emma and the well-known member of the "Addams Family," Uncle Fester. Please let me know (and give me some hope) that she will not grow up to resemble this lovable, yet visually unpleasant character.

*just a side-note: This is a joke. I am not concerned about my daughter's appearance nor am I that insecure that I would take one little funny comment out of context.

I wouldn't mention this if it weren't cute

2008-09-11T10:10:00.004-06:00

Lately, I've been finding that Emma has rotated herself in her crib by morning. Yes, I'm sure many babies have done this and many more are sure to follow in this pattern. However, since she is our one and only right now, this is a new experience for me.
I stole into the bedroom and snapped this picture before she woke up this morning.

Ok, this wasn't taken this morning. But see how happy she is when she wakes up??

trying this "saving money" thing

2008-09-11T00:36:00.006-06:00

So, since we have moved to Utah we have again had the opportunity to get better at being more frugal. Thank goodness we brought up quite a bit and my mother-in-law also has quite a hefty food storage. So, really, we just need the bread, milk, eggs, and the like. I found a website called www.grocerysmarts.com that will compare the sales at your local grocery stores with the coupons that you get in the newspaper inserts. I'm still quite new at this, but I'm working on it.

*addendum*
The above website really only has information for Utah and Nevada stores. The passport for UT is g84ro1 and for NV it is g89ccb. It's a free service and you don't have to register. Just enter the passport for your state and then bookmark the page it takes you to and you will no longer have to use the passport.

Emma up until now...

2008-09-09T10:50:00.009-06:00

So, Mark and I had our first child in May. Just to keep everybody up to date, I am posting a few pictures of her from birth until now so you can believe me when I say she was on the smaller side when she was born. She is, by no means, a small baby at this point!

Only minutes old. See? She really was 6 lbs, 4 oz. Oh, and please forgive the immodesty.

Grandma Hodson was helping fold clothes with Emma near by.

The blessing outfit...minus the dragon hat. Thanks Aunt Kimmy!

We spent the 4th of July with our friends Neil and Annie. Neil is awol here.
Our first night in Roy. We didn't really have a good place for her to sleep, and knowing that she couldn't roll over yet we made a makeshift bed for her on the changing table in the guest room where we slept until we got our bedroom put together the next day. Kinda creepy with the hands, I know.

Sitting up...with the assistance of the boppy and numerous blankets.

My mom gave me a few clothes that I used to wear. However, this is one my sister Kim used to wear. Yes, it's clean and yes, I will be bringing it back home to it's proper resting place.

She loves hanging out with Grandma whenever she can.

Attack of the killer Zucchini!

Preparing for her next role as "Q" in the upcoming James Bond film.

here we go again...

2008-09-09T10:39:00.000-06:00

Well, here's another go at the blogging thing. As I have been "encouraged" to keep up this time, I have even taken the effort to give this one a nice background. Like it? Good.