just livin' the dream

I Spy, on the 4th of July...

2011-07-06T23:49:00.002-04:00

... a pirate, the Master of the Grill, two sets of love-birds, a conservative pachyderm, Old Navy's best cowboy boots, pulled pork Cafe Rio salad (only the best in Olney, MD!), Mom's date, a JessieChin original (YUM), someone getting tickled, two Uncles, one tired girl in her silly Dad's arms, and...
perhaps a little bit of skinny-dipping?....

Hats Off to My 6-year-old!

2011-06-27T00:35:00.003-04:00

The big dude turned 6 on Wednesday, and had a rip-roaring great day. He started it off at IHOP with his siblings and best friend Quincy. They had a great time bouncing around, slurping OJ loudly from their straws, and singing "Happy Burp-Day," which ellicited dark glares from a half-dozen high-society senior citizens who proudly dine there. I was slightly amused and slightly embarrassed.

The day continued with his cello lesson, where Jack's amazingly patient teacher, Mrs. B, pinned an "I LOVE MUSIC" badge on his shirt in honor of the big day. A surprise appearance mid-day from Dad made the birthday ever so much cooler. Nate managed to join us for lunch, which consisted of hot dogs, Cheetos, orange soda, and a doughnut stack (I threw some cantaloupe in for good measure...)
And in the evening, we were joined by 16 exuberant young humans who came for the JEDI TRAINING ACADEMY. In Jack's eyes, it was a huge success, although his parents were both heard muttering, "this is the last birthday party we'll ever throw" under their breaths from time to time.

I have attached a letter that I wrote to Jack last Sunday. I try to write my kids a letter at each birthday, but truthfully, I'm about at a sad 45% success rate here. Vowing to do better. I sure love my big 6-year-old boy.

Dear Jack,

On Wednesday you're going to turn 6! I cannot believe it. You have grown up so fast. In the blink of an eye, you went from being my little blond, curly-haired 2-year-old to being a big boy graduating from kindergarten. How did that happen?

Thank you so much for a wonderful year, Jack. How I've loved having our mornings together, and especially our little "bus walk" up to the corner bus stop. In the fall we sat on the grass and looked at the leaves. In the winter we huddled together to keep each other warm. In the spring we laid down on the grass and looked at the sky and felt the breeze on our face. And every day, you'd let me give you a little hug right before you got on the bus to join your friends and face the world.
I love you very much, Jack. You are a very, very special person. You have a kind, compassionate, and generous heart. You care deeply about the feelings of others, and are sensitive and passionate. You are good with your hands. I love watching you create imaginary worlds in your drawings, marvel at the Lego creations that you build, and have glowed with pride as your little fingers grasp the positions for your pieces on the cello.
I want to tell you how proud I am of you for completing this kindergarten year. It's not easy to go to school, surrounded by so many kids, many of whom are not especially kind or sweet. You always try to do what is right, to listen and follow the directions of your teacher, and to be kind to others. I hope you will always do this. And I hope you will always, always know that you have parents and siblings who love you. Home will always be a safe place where you can feel loved and supported.
As you turn 6, I have a feeling that there are many wonderful things in store for you this year! You'll start first grade. You'll make new friends! I bet you'll lose a tooth or two. And I know you're going to find joy in things that might be hard, if you keep trying and have the courage and confidence to do so. Tonight, you prayed with tears in your eyes and asked Heavenly Father to help you be brave for your swimming lesson tomorrow. I know that He will, Jack. Trust Him and ask Him, and He will always answer your prayers.
I am so grateful to be able to be your mom. You fill my whole soul with joy. I can't WAIT to celebrate your birthday with you on Wednesday!

Love,
Mom

Let's try this again, shall we?

2011-06-26T23:55:00.011-04:00

It's been a long, long time. I really sort of got sick of writing and have been resorting to little facebook blurbs and writing in my journal now and again. But after reading through some older entries, I feel nostalgic. I want to resume posting, if for no other reason than to document my kids' lives. I'm viewing this as an opportunity to improve!
I came downstairs on this Sunday night to pay bills. How exciting. And then I got sucked in, and have spent the last hour drying my eyeballs out and giving myself a headache from trying to update my stinking blog settings. But, I'm done. It is what it is. I'm no good when it comes to HTML, nor am I crafty or artistic, but I am committing here and now to write more, so I can remember and articulate some of the details that would otherwise wither in my mind.

Today was such a great day! I love my life. I love my kids. (Here they are, posing delightfully in a recent photo shoot in Elfreth's Alley.)

I love the salad we had for dinner (well, a couple of us ate it anyway...) I love Nate, even when he surprises me by telling me he has a moonlighting shift tonight, tomorrow night, and Tuesday night. Hummph... (Really though, that man works harder than anyone on the planet, and does a darn good job as SuperDad, too...)
For a very brief update: We went camping on Friday night with 7 families! I forgot to bring half of our food, but good thing our friends made up for that. It was a much more excellent meal with all their goodies anyway! The boys' highlight was definitely the 45 minutes they spent splashing around wild and free in Scott's Run Lake. It was a picture-perfect day and, though a desperately short amount of sleep had me feeling sort of intoxicated, we all had a fantastic time.
I feel very grateful for wonderful, talented, and intelligent friends who surround me and inspire me. I feel grateful to be the mother to three intense children who make me laugh and think hard. I feel grateful for my calling as Primary president in our inner-city ward. This opportunity has been one of the most joyful and stretching experiences of my life. I'm grateful for summer nights, good music, sneaky early-morning runs, and the prospect of clean sheets waiting upstairs. Let's see how I do this time around. (I'm wishing myself luck.)

proof of non-existence...

2010-12-20T20:39:00.001-05:00

hello. this is nate....

or rather, the shell of what was once nate.

I don't really exist.

ask jenny.

:)

Proof of existence

2010-11-02T08:15:00.003-04:00

Remembering

2010-09-12T13:48:00.008-04:00

We sat up until midnight last night watching a great program on the History Channel: "An i-Witness to 9/11." There isn't much to be said that hasn't already been said; not much to show that hasn't already been shown. But Nate and I feel like the day just can't pass by without our acknowledging the tragic loss of life and the reality of our vulnerability, and also reflecting with gratitude on the freedoms offered to us as American citizens.

I remember like it was yesterday hauling it up Broadway on my cruddy 15-speed bike, trying to make sense of what was happening. I was grateful I'd ridden my bike down to work that day; I was teaching at a music school on West 85th Street while completing my Masters degree. Little did I know that public transit would be completely down for several days, and that having my bike that day got me safely-- and quickly, home. Home to our little apartment, where we held onto each other and watched--along with everyone else--the hellish day unfolding, just 7 miles away.

I remember standing in line for several hours to donate blood that afternoon at Columbia University, trying to DO something other than stare at the harsh images on the TV. We were stunned. It was quiet and somber. I remember Nate quietly and severely telling me he would enlist if it was necessary. Standing in line with us was our good friend, who had received a call the previous evening from the law firm he was scheduled to interview for that morning. The firm was based on the 98th floor of the North Tower. The call had been to reschedule: could he come the afternoon of the 11th, rather than in the morning? As he stood with us, he was blank, almost trembling, with shock.

I remember, most profoundly, walking that evening from 38th Street (where Nate's parents were staying a hotel; incredibly, they were visiting that week) all the way back home to 122nd and Amsterdam. This walk took us through Times Square at 9:30 pm. As if we were witnessing a scene from Armageddon, Times Square was utterly dark. It was hollow. It was silent. It was completely surreal. We saw a total of 7 people in the 10 blocks between 40th and 50th Street. Five of them were police officers. The moving marquee strips only showed numbers to call to report missing people. There are no pictures of this. I don't think we would have taken any even if we'd had the camera with us, but this is a picture that will always be ingrained in my memory. It is a haunting picture; one that I hope never to witness again.

I remember. Do you? Where were you on that fateful day?

just livin' MY dream

2010-09-10T13:20:00.003-04:00

Threw the kids in the car after breakfast and drove up to Manhattan. Spent the day with 2 sisters, 2 boroughs, 2 crepes, and 2 sleeping kids all the way home. Grant even made it home in time for soccer practice, much to his great relief! (Thank you, Rosh Hashanah.)

Thought I was seeing things when Nate waltzed in at noon not one, not two, but three days this week. This out-patient gig was an unexpected freebie! Put Jack on the kindergarten bus, put Caroline down for her nap, put my feet up, and sipped a smoothie with my man.

Mmm, mmm. Good times.

for the three little people who take up the backseat:

2010-09-06T21:25:00.006-04:00

I'm sorry I haven't been very patient this week. I think the end-of-summer restlessness bug was caught by me as much as you. I want you to know that when the house is quiet and the day is done, my mind becomes clear and the events of the day are put in their perspective. And then I go upstairs and I look in on your warm little sleeping bodies, and my eyes are pricked with tears-- how is it that you can grow up right before my eyes? How is it that the "to-do's" so often win over the precious scenes of the present?

Thank you for letting me be your mom. Thank you for being my little ducklings, all in a row-- letting me lead you, teach you, lecture you--and all too often, snap at you--and for loving me anyway. Thank you Jack, for sitting down next to me while I folded laundry and putting your arm around me. Thank you, Grant, for coming in today and telling me you'd smile and be good, even if I still wouldn't let you play Wii. Thank you, Caroline, for demanding that I put everything down and sing to you. I thought I didn't have time, but it turns out-- I did.

The Philanthropist

2010-08-24T23:15:00.004-04:00

Me:

"Hey Grant, want to come sit with me while I eat my bowl of cereal for dinner?" (Don't ask.)

Grant:

"Yeah, Mom. Let's go talk about how we can make the world a better place."

If I were President, I would...

2010-08-15T21:08:00.005-04:00

...definitely insist on private time in the W.C.

This was my thought today as my (entire) family stood outside the powder room door, chanting:
"Hurry Mom, Hurry Mom, HUR-RY MOM!"

The loudest chanter was the deep booming voice of my husband.

Ah well. Someday....

a link to enjoy

2010-08-13T15:32:00.004-04:00

need a laugh? or two? or a hundred?

relax, put your feet up, pop open some bubbly, and enjoy more like these!

you know Nate's on a trauma rotation when...

2010-08-13T08:29:00.002-04:00

...the mere sight of his cell phone # on the caller ID is a thrill.

Kinda like he's my boyfriend.

five friday thoughts

2010-08-06T23:18:00.005-04:00

1. Havertown needs a splash park.

2. There was only one day this week that I didn't eat ice cream, despite my best intentions.

3. Two skunks have now been spotted 3 times in our backyard.

4. I wrote a check for $28.17 at the library. However, I am now only wanted for library fraud in one state: New York. Maybe there's a statute of limitations...

5. Grant ate salad this week. I know, right?

Is it odd that...

2010-07-12T21:59:00.001-04:00

my second son went around spanking every last mannequin at Old Navy today?

Just checkin.'

My husband is a Prophet

2010-06-30T23:02:00.006-04:00

I knew I'd chosen a good one when I said yes to his proposal 11 years ago.

He did tell me, however, that I owe him in so many ways.

the Grantologist

2010-06-30T22:39:00.011-04:00

early morning McDonalds feast with great friend Daxton, on the day he moved away

Grant has taken to signing his name on his homework and school projects in a very creative fashion: Grantie, Granter, Gran-terrific, Granteronius, and the Grantologist are some of his choices. Good thing his 1st grade teacher was the very chill Mr. Reynolds.

G-money (that's one that Nate actually coined) lives for:

Harry Potter.

That could just about sum it up, but in non-Potter-reading moments, he can be found

playing soccer,

baseball,

riding his bike,

making alphabetical lists of things (still)

trying to talk me into pets,

making up new words to songs,

creating and memorizing jokes (some of which are quite good),

and occasionally, practicing the piano--and,

even more occasionally,

unloading the dishwasher!

Grant is a solid, steady, and thoughtful boy. He's got a sense of humor that keeps me on my toes. He's always in a good mood, and is a friend to many. Including me! I love his "replays" of all his sports-related action moments, even when I have to sit through several dozen per day.

Mr. Jack, the brand-new 5-year-old

2010-06-30T22:17:00.012-04:00

Jack continues to prove himself to be the "delightful human" that he declares himself to be. Current loves include LEGOS, LEGOS, LEGOS,

StarWars wii,

making stuff (i.e. enlisting me to help him with inventions such as paper-towel-roll sharks, homemade maracas, and animal trappers),

reading books,

getting tickled (seriously. And he's so squishy that we can't resist him on his generous offers),

sword-fighting,

singing Caroline lullabies before her nap (one of the highlights of my life)

scripture stories,

and U-Haul trucks (??), as evidenced by his request for a "U-Haul Truck Birthday Cake".

Jack is our sensitive, passionate, and loving boy. I adore him.

Plus, he sleeps in the car on a regular basis!

the Queen

2010-06-30T21:40:00.025-04:00

Rockin' out to the Madagascar II soundtrack (thanks, Lori and Lucy!),

anything chocolate,

"Baby-Daddy-Mama" (all one word, and her obsession),

"singing" songs at the piano (no one else is allowed within 10 feet),

babies-- dressing, touching, feeding, mauling (no, I am most definitely not pregnant),

Elmo anything,

climbing up slides, but never down them,

giving "loves- not shoves" (as per Grant's constant reminders),

and putting her brothers' underwear on her head daily.

This little lady gives me a run for my money, but we sure love her.

My life is so joyful because of her!

Blogging, Round II

2010-06-28T22:25:00.011-04:00

Hello? Hello!

Heaven only knows who's still loyal enough to check in around here.

So.

Nate and I went south to Puerto Rico to celebrate 10 years of marriage.

It was H-O-T!

Anyway, while we were there, my email and our blog was hacked into. Picture "Just Livin' the Dream"-- all in Spanish! We instantly and temporarily decided to make the blog private, without sending anyone an invite. Sorry to those faithful followers who were stumped and possibly insulted-- your requests for invites were inspiring, enough so that I'm going to take another jab at blogging regularly. A daunting thought, indeed! Nevertheless, I am fully committed. Stay tuned...

I must say that I love this man. I love his kindness, his humor, his sarcasm, his friendship, his tolerance (of me), and his amazing ability to balance his obligations with grace and selflessness. And, he's H-O-T. We had a great time, just enjoying each other, and letting everything else....go.

it's all good

2010-05-29T22:55:00.002-04:00

On Friday, after a very long, busy, and tiring week, I was walking up a hill with Jack and Caroline in the jogger. Feeling a lump rise in my throat as I thought of all I could've and should've done to be more of an engaging parent this week, I said, "Jack, I want to be a good mom to you! I'm going to do better!"

He said, "It's all good, Mom. You're doin' great."

And then he winked at me (one of his sweeeet 4-year-old skillz.)

Man, this boy is a product of his dad. And it was just what I needed.

Calling All Mothers

2010-05-04T17:36:00.002-04:00

Some of you know I'm a closet NieNie fan.

But how could you not be when you see something like this?

Watch, and be inspired.

we are alive

2010-04-25T21:21:00.009-04:00

I woke up this morning and decided it was time to get on the ball and post a little update. I'm sure many of our loyal followers have given up on us, but in case you're interested, here are a few pics and a bit of a catch-up for the last couple of months!

Caroline threw our camera into the toilet. So, pics are scarce, but here's a glimpse into our joyfully chaotic world:

Again, camera in the toilet, but I am including this graphic to remind myself that Nate and I had a supremely awesome weekend in Chicago, all to ourselves. Ooh, I fell in love with that city! Nate presented his research at a hoity-toity conference, and boy was I proud. We had a great time: a nice morning run together around Grant Park, a little shopping all on my own (whoa),and some good eats made for some great R&R. I love my husband.

Before the camera in the toilet, I caught some pics of the Queenly One in her debut pigtail appearance! Man, was I proud of myself for maneuvering this production! Too bad they only lasted 20 minutes. Oh well, there is hope.

Here she is again, busily marching her dolly down the street at a remarkable pace. Drive up Hastings Ave and you'll catch her in this pose, at least once a day.

Looking like somewhat of a motley bunch, although mostly pleased, on a rare free Sunday morning (stake conference was at noon), feeding ducks at Haverford College.

Happy 60th, Dad! Oops, did I just say that? We surprised him with every sibling coming to town the week before his birthday. Totally caught him off guard! What a great day!

The Naylor 7, plus a couple of Richards offspring

Ooh, this is big news. Long overdue. Introducing.... GAYLE the PRiUs! Nate's 12-year-old Suburu bit the dust, and this is his green, eco-friendly replacement.

Of course, my cynical spouse had to include a sarcastic wink at all things green. See pic below.

Here's most of my sister-in-laws (a couple weren't in this pic) at our Richards girls' weekend in Utah. I love these ladies. We had a fantastic time.

Here's to posting more frequently! (But don't get your hopes up....)

Little Miss High Society

2010-03-02T14:09:00.002-05:00

philly must love onions

2010-02-11T14:07:00.010-05:00

Hello everyone, and welcome to the tundra! Sorry my kids aren't featured in these photos; they're a bit too delicate for this weather, apparently. And let's not forget: they're trying to preserve their tans from the beach as long as possible. Beauty over fun, boys!

Such a strange land we live in. I went to the grocery store on Tuesday, before the Big Whammy, to get some "Schtuff." What a trip! No parking spaces. No carts. No eggs. No cheese (as in, NONE.) No bread. No lettuce. No chocolate chips. (c'mon, people!) And... no onions!

As you view these pictures, just think about all the people nestled in their little dens, contentedly munching their onions.

a nice little swapperoosky

2010-02-09T21:16:00.008-05:00

we did this:

for this!

{crummy pic, complete with crotch grabbing, courtesy of one awesome robust German tourist}

And, thanks to the second-largest snow storm in Philadelphia history, we got to stay an extra three days! Cheers to serendipity!

*And, I do have to add: Our "service day" on Martin Luther King Day was so cool. I felt sorta guilty thinking about our selfish reasons for doing a good deed. Philly is absolutely filled to the brim with abundant opportunities for community service, and it was inspiring to see the people who came to help clean up a desolate North Philly neighborhood, not so they could go to Disney, but just because they were committed to the cause. Many of them looked like they came from very humble circumstances. It definitely made an impact on me, and from now on, we plan on doing a day of serious and intense service every MLK day. Cheers to traditions!

from my journal: forgive my self-indulgence

2010-01-15T23:34:00.009-05:00

A Snapshot of 2010 (for my future self)

*Grant just lost his first tooth (and his front tooth, no less) last week. He looks awesome—so much better than the pirate-mouth he’s been exhibiting the past couple of weeks.

*Jack’s hair is getting really, really long. He needs a haircut, but I am nostalgic because I’m catching occasional glimpses of his curly locks when he’s sweaty.

*Speaking of hair, Caroline’s needs to GROW. I am a dedicated “clippie-artist:” always trying to finagle her “pretties” to stay in her seventeen fine strands of blonde hair. I’m seeing some Pantene shine, though—but not lovin’ the static.

*Nate keeps on trying to wear flip-flops. The man never changes.

*We try to read the Book of Mormon every morning.

*We eat cold cereal 98% of the time for breakfast.

*I absolutely hate to unload the dishwasher, and I’m thinking it might be time to let that be Grant’s newest job.

*I also am not a fan of piano practicing with Grant. The great irony, I know. Nate seems to be much more productive with him.

*Grant has been playing indoor soccer and loves it. Jack is a fantastic supporter, and I can’t wait until next year when he can be a full-fledged participant in sports, too.

*Nate leaves to go teach seminary at 5:45. I have great ambitions to get up when he does and exercise before the kids get up. This has happened once. Of course, this will all change next Monday.

*Because of this, I find myself trying to squeeze in my exercise at very random times of the day.

*Caroline likes to sit on the stair landing and chuck things down. She also likes to pull out every card in my wallet, one by one.

*Lately, she eats as much as the boys. Or more. In fact, she thinks she's entitled to a snack every time we pass through the kitchen!

*We’ve been having a particularly hard time getting the veggies down around here. Right now, I am considered to be a rockstar cook only when I serve pizza, spaghetti, or hot dogs for dinner. It’s pitiful, I know.

*Grant loves and craves 20 minutes right when he gets home from school to sit down quietly and write down alphabetical lists of the kids in his class, healthy foods (which he never eats), sports, or animals of some kind. He has a folder by the kitchen table with literally hundreds of papers full of lists.

*Caroline’s latest trick: We say, “So funny.” She scrunches up her face and does a little fake laugh. She also loves to leap into Grant’s arms as he walks in the door.

*Jack just started up with swimming again at the Y. He doesn’t like it very much, and makes this known with passion through the ringing halls of the poolhouse.

*Jack is getting good at reading!

*One of the few consistencies in my day-to-day existence is that I actually do read the scriptures before I sleep every night. It’s not always a spiritual epiphany, but I guess it’s one thing I can be 100% in.

*Nate comes back from teaching seminary and we eat breakfast together as a family! I am going to miss this terribly when he starts back again for Year 5 of clinical residency. June 20 is being termed "D Day."

*Jack is just about the most loveable, generous, and compassionate little guy I’ve ever met. Today, he sang Caroline lullabies to help her fall asleep. He likes to ask, “How can I be helpful, Mom?”

*I am growing ever more improvisatory and creative when it comes to entertaining Caroline while teaching lessons. Babysitters continue to try—and fail, with her.

*Nate and I have gone on more dates this year than we ever have since we’ve had kids. This thanks to his research year and abundant opportunities to moonlight.

*I need chocolate at least once a day to continue to exist.

* The boys’ current faves: “Foodland,” (they pretend to be food), dinosaurs, books by the dozens (we’re just now reading Charlotte’s Web together, having recently finished The Indian in the Cupboard), and imagined natural disasters, which are re-enacted with no words, just sound effects and lots of crashing.

* I wear a uniform: a purple fleece, black Yoga pants, and running shoes, 70% of the time.

philly got some snow!

2009-12-20T20:16:00.002-05:00

18 + inches-- that's the most we've had in the 3 1/2 years we've been here! We'll take it!

it's the little things

2009-12-10T23:17:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday was a little rough. For one reason or another, our kids had the "grumpers." (If you'd like a detailed run-down of the day, complete with the "gratitude drive" to North Philadelphia, just ask.) Anyway, due to a string of events and misbehaviors, Nate and I found ourselves outside, alone, on our front porch. A neighbor walked by, and, noting this unusual circumstance, asked: "Where are your kids?"

"Oh, in time out, in various places," Nate replied. (To her royal credit, Caroline was actually asleep.)

And at that instant, we looked at each other and realized: a moment of serendipitous bliss had befallen us. For the next 5 minutes and 42 seconds, we basked.

The Princess Turned One!

2009-11-21T21:52:00.016-05:00

We had two birthdays in our family last week!

First was Little Miss CAROLINE {aka Fweemies, the Fweems, Kiki, Care-Bear, Princess, and Queen of Sheba}! We love you so much, sweet Care. You've got all of us wrapped around your little cute finger.

this banner was up for a solid week (poor Jack)

introducing... the Star of the Day!

the birthday dinner was a bit too sophisticated.. but no worries. She just fed everyone else.

Caroline has a very mean mother, who held out until her birthday to buy her a doll. The poor girl has been lusting over them since she first laid eyes on one last summer.

So pleased with her new acquisitions. She could hardly contain herself.

While the dinner wasn't necessarily appreciated, the girl has definitely developed a fine palette for all things sweet. Eating cake was a very polite and enjoyable affair.

Happy Birthday, sweets!

Seven!

2009-11-21T21:05:00.010-05:00

I can't believe my first born child has been on the earth for seven years! Actually, sometimes it seems like a lot longer(the boy is a little wise man in so many ways.) Because it was an off-year for a friends party, we had a simple, but still memorable, family affair. He had a sleepover at Grandma's (beats a friends' party any day!), and requested Olive Garden for his pre-birthday sup, where he stuffed himself silly. The birthday itself was on Sunday, and he proudly wore his "IT'S MY BIRTHDAY" badge to church, where he was heralded appropriately. He opened presents throughout the day: one here, one there... (thanks, all you aunts, uncles, and grandparents for the multitude of gifts and calls!). His birthday "cake" was his favorite cherry cobbler, and, as evidenced by the photos, he was determined to get every candle out on the first blow!

Seven things I love about GRANT:

1. He is compassionate. He cares very deeply about others. I've watched him put himself out to make others feel comfortable and welcome, and he is genuinely concerned for others' well-being, be it close friends or utter strangers.

2. He is sensitive. We watched the Water Horse the other night, and I looked over and saw tears running down his cheeks. He was embarrassed a little, but cried quietly for several minutes over the situation being presented in the movie.

3. He is honest. Grant is always wanting to follow directions and rules with exactness. When he knows he's not supposed to do something, he absolutely does not do it. I have never heard anything but the truth come out of those little lips (sometimes to a fault!)

4. He is intelligent. The boy has been blessed with keen mind. Sometimes the things he comes up with absolutely floor me! Give him a random number between 1- 26, and he'll tell you which letter of the alphabet it is without batting an eye. I have a feeling he's going to be a whiz at Trivial Pursuit someday. Along with being smart, I love that he has a hunger to always be studying something. I hope this sticks with him throughout his life.

5. He is funny. I love this dude's sense of humor. He appreciates very subtle comical references, remembers and repeats every joke he hears (so don't tell him any gross ones!), and is, like his father, already becoming a master of well-placed sarcastic comments!

6. He is helpful. Especially with Caroline. He rushes to her side at her every whim. And believe me, it's worth it. The Queen prefers him often to anyone else!

7. He is creative. Says he's going to be a screenwriter, and already has about four scripts in the works! I love his poems, his stories, and his answers and suggestions for problems.

I love you, bud.

Halloween Fun

2009-11-01T20:09:00.008-05:00

Of course, the obligatory Halloween blog post. We had a great time. The kids did a fun little witch hunt in Narberth, which is the cutest, most quaint little Philly suburb. We'll definitely make that a tradition. They had a blast.

Here they are in all their "fishy-ness!" My friend lent me an awesome fish head that I wore, but alas, my big plan to get Nate in a mermaid costume failed miserably. I'm still holding out for Elvis next year...

this was Nate's little "project:" carving 22 oranges with his surgical scalpels for Grant's class party. I knew those scalpels would come in handy at some point! He says he's not going to eat an orange for a least a couple months...

hunting for witches in downtown Narberth

Go Phillies.

Grant's quality time in the W.C.

2009-10-30T20:44:00.009-04:00

Grant's future self is going to KILL me for posting this, but I couldn't resist. Every day, right after school, Grant takes a break in the loo. 20, 30, sometimes pushing 40 minutes. Long enough that his legs and feet, inevitably, fall asleep. He makes snack requests(which I sometimes honor), and typically takes in either a good book or a pad and paper to write alphabetical lists of things. He has been known to study his Kids' Encyclopedia in there, and I even caught him poring over our globe, with it comfortably (?) perched on his bare little lap. How I love this boy.

But today, things got even more creative: he took the digital camera in with him. Something of a "self portrait session", shall we say? Enjoy. Feel free to insert your own captions...

Fall in PA

2009-10-18T22:05:00.009-04:00

We took a little excursion into the Poconos last weekend. Talk about livin' the dream. Breathtaking scenery, an envigorating bike ride along the Lehigh River, great friends (thanks, N,R,E, I, and L), and way too many treats made for some much needed R&R for our minds and souls. If I find out that I've got a week to live, I told Nate that this is where I'll go.

Heaven on earth!

it was THAT good

2009-10-18T21:44:00.004-04:00

I don't often go a-postin' about food I eat, although it does constitute a lot of time and thought in my little head. (And mouth.)

But this... whoa. My friend Janelle changed my life tonight. Red Velvet Cake Balls. Check 'em out. Yum.

please read

2009-10-12T20:42:00.002-04:00

I don't know them personally, but I have been extremely touched by this family's story. Please take a look and lend your support...

For your entertainment: 3 vignettes

2009-10-05T22:26:00.008-04:00

#1: Willpower

Nate and I were in Grant's classroom at Back to School Night, meeting his teacher and the other parents while sitting in a circle. His teacher (who is, in all seriousness, fantastic) was explaining the strange phenomenon that spelling is no longer taught in school as a subject; rather, it is incorporated into the curriculum in a variety of other ways.

Nate shoots me a note that says,

"speling suks."

And then a few minutes later:

"hoo kares if yu can't spel"

I lost it. Right there in front of all the other sophisticated (fine, there was one permed mullet) parents, I started faking my way out of hysteria with these pathetic, high pitched little wheezes. I think I was winded for the rest of the night. I hope by being the homeroom mom in Grant's class, I can make it up to his teacher...

2009-10-05T22:23:00.004-04:00

#2: "Nursing" my "Wound"

I'm speaking in code here, ladies, and there won't be any pictures to support my post.

I think it's time to "pull the plug." "dry the tap." "end the party."

The girl's got teeth, and they draw blood.

2009-10-05T21:57:00.013-04:00

#3: Our Twist on Time-Out

No, no, it's not what you think. We don't usually throw our kids in dumpsters as a form of discipline. Rather, we (er, I) throw our only set of car keys in dumpsters as a form of masochistic entertainment. We were at the Jersey shore, celebrating Nate's fantastic finish in a 75-mile bike race, and were about to go enjoy the beach when, OOPS!, I accidentally dropped the keys in the dumpster. Way, way down in the dumpster. Past all the garbage bags and into the slewy, thick swamp of sewage and other unknown waste. Aarrgghhh!!!!

What to do????

Grant stepped up galantly as the man of the hour. Willingly, he let his dad hold him by the ankles and dangle him down into the dumpster, where he fished around in several unsuccessful attempts before finally, heroically, locating the keys. His biggest dilemma after the event was not how to get his arms clean, but how to accurately and vividly describe the event in the prescribed two sentences he is allowed for "sharing" in his 1st grade Monday morning routine.

(Unfortunately, I didn't think to grab the camera until Nate was pulling him out for the final time. It was much more poignant when Grant's legs were straight up out of the dumpster and Nate was holding him by the ankles. Also, it's interesting to note that our other two children were seemingly unimpressed by the whole event.)

i am a stage mother

2009-09-10T21:31:00.008-04:00

who says kids can't start at 9 months?

I'm lovin' the technical prowess here

for my middle child

2009-09-10T20:33:00.004-04:00

Dear Jack,

Today was a good day. Grant went off to his first day of first grade, and after he left, you and I had a happy, splendid, “delightful and pleasant” day! I loved being with you today, Jack. This morning, we folded a little laundry and put Caroline down for a nap, and talked about sharks, whales, and tsunamis. You watched Diego while I ran on the treadmill, and then we sat down together in the playroom and made a zoo with your animals and the cardboard bricks. It was amazing! You made the coolest alligator cage, and I really liked that you gave the sea lion its own blue-brick pool.

You were excited that you got to play Stanley on the computer while I took a shower. You did a great job—all by yourself! We talked about animals and then you decided to make a cool picture of sea creatures to send to Uncle Andrew. Caroline woke up, and we made lunch—“exactly what Grant is having at school,” you said. So you had an Uncrustable (which you didn’t love), grapes, pear slices, and chocolate milk. You said the lunch prayer, and it was just you, me, and Caroline! Then, we went on errands. You got a sucker at the bank. You waited patiently in line at the post office. And then… we went to the park! What a great time we had! I pushed you on the merry-go-round, you held Caroline all by yourself and went down the slide with her, and then you pretended you were a jaguar on another planet! I got to be a human, and you promised you wouldn’t bite me. You used your super-duper sense of smell to sniff out poisonous bugs, and pushed Caroline around in her space-pod stroller. You were good-natured when it was time to go, and I was proud of you, because I knew you would have liked to stay and play longer.

When we got home and Caroline was asleep, we worked on your very first lesson in your reading book. You did great, Jack! You were so anxious and excited for Grant to get home, and when he did, you both played so happily all the way until dinnertime. You even “jogged” up and down the street with him while he rode his bike. That must have been hard, Jack. We promise we’re going to fix up your little bike with training wheels, so that you can ride, too.

Thank you for today, Jack. I loved talking with you and being with you—just you—almost the whole day. You are a wonderful, kind boy. Thank you for always trying to make Caroline happy. Thank you for being such a good friend to Grant. And thank you for bringing me so much joy. I will never forget this day!

Love,

Mom

a juncture

2009-09-06T20:46:00.004-04:00

Goodbye-

fireflies

popsicles

swimming

friends all day

brothers in pj's until half past eleven

late night bike rides

early morning runs alone

reading piles of books in the afternoon on the "waiting bench"

serendipitous outings

sprinklers

Hello-

backpacks

sack lunch (thus, it begins)

new shoes

crickets

routine

the year of seminary for Nate (who thinks 6 am will be sleeping in, though)

soccer Saturdays

apple picking

football, of course (go, BYU) (did I just say that?)

biking with Caroline

and maybe,

a clean house!

time for a change

2009-08-26T15:20:00.003-04:00

It's really quite remarkable what can happen when your husband has his research year during a surgical residency. Nate told me he couldn't stand "One More Day" of looking at the "pee-yellow" walls in our bedroom. 48 hours later, here's what we did:

Oh, I'm getting so spoiled this year. And greedy. If he's home later than 5, my rhythm's thrown off. Come next July 1, I'm going to need a therapist to help me deal with the withdrawal.

I've lost control

2009-08-18T22:00:00.003-04:00

Watch out, all you first-time moms. Don't come callin' for any advice from me!

These are the days...

2009-08-18T21:33:00.008-04:00

We just returned from a couple of weeks visiting our families in Utah. The boys will always think of Utah as synonymous with nonstop fun. Sunup to sundown, our dudes played-- played with cousins, played with grandparents, played with each other, played with mom and dad. To them, no one goes to work in Utah. No one has to do chores. No one runs errands, goes to school, or ever, ever goes to the dentist. The magical, mythical world those Utah pirates live, indeed! I wonder how long we can keep the illusion going. I must admit, it was a bit tricky to come back to the routine of reality!

These pics constitute a very meager assortment of snapshots taken when I remembered to have my camera with me, which wasn't very often!

The classic mom must-have: all kids naked in the tub. We were at my mom's Park City condo, and I promise I was one inch away from the camera shot, holding my breath that Caroline's floating head wouldn't be submerged!

Here is our little princess, making the face that has become quite her standard these days. We call her the Queen of Sheba, and she's got the whole family wrapped around her fingers. Somehow, we all are fine with it, though.

Reading with Grandpa Richards. This was a highlight, and one of the few down times in the midst of lots of activities and adventures.

Grant with his "best" cousins, Cort and Pete. I said to him one night as I tucked him in, "Grant, I feel like I haven't seen much of you these past few days; you've been so busy with Cort and Pete! I miss you!" To which he replied, "I'm sorry Mom, I don't mean to hurt your feelings or anything, but I don't really miss you."

This is a picture that will forever bring a smile to my face. I love the various emotional comfort levels on display here.

sweet car- oline...

2009-07-09T14:26:00.006-04:00

My dear friend, Katie, just moved away and sent me these photos she snapped of Caroline a few weeks ago. I thought they captured her expressive little self so well. She is a growing girl... giggling, waving, giving "kisses", loving her brothers to death, and making her every whim and desire known to all! We love her.

By the way, Kate just moved to Utah and is a fantastic professional photographer. I'm sure she's booking up quickly, so for all you Utah folks who may be interested, check her out here. You will not be disappointed! Katie, we miss you!

jack's aspiring career

2009-07-06T07:53:00.002-04:00

The following notice is currently posted on a piece of white cardboard, hanging on our front door:

Jack Docktor the greatest

no cure to high

open 10 am to 3:30 pm

wendsday to saturday.

18 Hastings Avenue

Junior Partner= Nate

We cure hickups, back ache, itchyitus, slide monster bite, and others.

I knew Nate secretly wanted to be Jack's junior partner on his research year.

June = ready, set, go!!!

2009-06-28T21:07:00.003-04:00

June was such a busy month for our family! If you're willing to put up with lots of pics and even more rambling, here's a brief synopsis:

Grant rocked as a Farmer in his splendid end-of-kindergarten Farm Show. You should've heard his rendition of "Down on Grandpa's Farm." Definitely one of his favorite moments in life.

Here's Jack, with his best bud in the whole world, Jack Dudley. As well as addressing each other always by their first and last names, they also affectionately call each other "Trout" and "Tuna," and simply, "Friendy." Jack moved away this morning. There's a hole in our hearts.

What are we going to do?

A girls trip to NYC with two of my dearest friends in all the world, Shari and Rachel, and of course, Caroline (on tap!). Caroline proved to be a NYC rock star. Who knew she could sleep in a stroller for 2 1/2 hours at a stretch? She must have inherited a genetic love for the city.

Shari, we will miss you!!!!!!!!

Camping in the Poconos with our friends. I love camping. I don't love it with a baby. Rockstar Caroline is more of a city girl, it seems. We're so nerdy--we even brought our noisemaker to use in the tent (those real-life nature sounds just don't cut it, I guess!) But chillin' by the campfire with my boys, singing songs and roasting marshmallows is simply the best.

The 5 mile hike at the beginning...

... and the end.

Ricketts Glen is awesome... we hiked past 22 waterfalls!!!

Jack turned 4!!! Unfortunately, the park party was rained out, so Nate and I got creative with 16 crazy kids in the house. Apparently, "freeze dance" to "Under the Sea" was effective and enjoyable. Where do these kids learn their moves?

Jack doesn't eat cake. Not a bit. So, donuts had to suffice. Frankly, these were so easy that I don't think I'll ever go to the trouble of making a cake again! (Sorry, Grant.)

We love you, Jack.

#1 Dad

2009-06-21T20:33:00.009-04:00

"The words that a father speaks to his children in the privacy of home are not heard by the world, but, as in whispering-galleries, they are clearly heard at the end and by posterity. "

~Jean Paul Richter

Grant really IS living the dream!

2009-06-11T22:23:00.009-04:00

(please observe the genetic Richards' tongue thrust)

(the $100 million dollar question: safe, or out?)

BFF

2009-06-04T22:16:00.006-04:00

Caroline and Sarah M. It's love at first.... taste?

Nobody lives at 2501 Meredith Street...

2009-05-31T21:03:00.007-04:00

So long, adieu, adios, and good luck to our beloved Dan, Hailey, and Preston! You who have supported, cheered, saved, babysat, fed, laughed, cried, and birthed, celebrated, and made these past three years here so joyful. Off you go to the land of Seattle, so very far away. If you don't mind, we'll hang on to the Jetta for you. Don't worry-- we won't drive it. It'll just be a shrine.

I {heart} OBX

2009-05-31T20:28:00.013-04:00

Well, it's the end of May. Time flies! We enjoyed this month immensely... of Nate's four weeks off this year, two of them were back to back this month. The last time he had a week off, it was the first of December and we were fumbling around in the twilight zone of life with a 2-week-old baby.

This time, we milked it for all it's worth. We headed out right away: back down to Outer Banks, NC, in an effort to fulfill our self-proclaimed mandate that we will go there every year! It's become one of our favorite places. So condusive to kicking back, relaxing, and enjoying each other's company immensely. We got there in the evening of Mother's Day. What a gift it was to walk on the beach in the sunset with my peeps! Grant said: "Isn't this the best Mother's Day ever, Mom?" And I had to agree.

I've discovered a remarkable equation: Nate + sleep= lots and lots of good humor! Wow... I'd almost forgotten how funny he is in the midst of all that workin' he does! Babe, it's been nice to have you back, and this is only whetting my voracious appetite for the research year that's soon to begin.... hallelujah!

Here's the boys, eager to start their early morning seashell/nature creature hunt. They came back with some dried-up puffer fish, of all things!

We also did a lot of this:

and lots of this:

some of this (the ocean was a tad on the cold side):

an enormous amount of this:

and this:

and even a little of this!

As evidenced, it was good times.

for Elise

2009-05-30T22:27:00.003-04:00

don't you hate it when...

2009-05-02T22:26:00.003-04:00

your neighbor comes a knockin' as you strut your stuff, standing on a chair in front of the dining room mirror, (in full view of the glass-paned front door) in order to achieve a full-length, panoramic assessment of the hot Bermuda shorts you just bought at Target?

There was absolutely nowhere to hide.

Awesome!

2009-04-30T21:56:00.004-04:00

Go. Take your kids. Take your mom. Take your grandma! I even took Caroline, who loved it, despite the fact that she pooped out of every piece of clothing she was wearing, and the cute pink carseat. It was inspiring (the movie, not the blow-out!)

yikes...

2009-04-16T18:38:00.002-04:00

I just finished teaching a long stretch of piano students. As I glanced in the mirror afterwards on my way into the kitchen, I noticed a horrendous amount of ink smeared all over my face! I knew my pen had leaked onto my hand during the first lesson of the day, but I guess the damage was more far-fetched than I suspected!

The question is: how in the world did all my students take me seriously all afternoon as I sat ten inches from their faces looking like the biggest dork????? I've really got to hand it to them. Had the situation been reversed, I would've been way too immature to keep a straight face!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T21:38:00.003-04:00

Struttin' our stuff on a beautiful albeit 30 degree Easter Sunday.

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

What am I to you?

2009-04-04T14:58:00.001-04:00

Jack: "Mom, do you have any problems? Because I'm Superhero Jack."

Grant: "Yeah, she's got problems. She's a Baker and a Maid, so she always needs help."

tweet tweet

2009-03-30T20:58:00.002-04:00

I was out in our muddy mess of a backyard the other day and noticed something odd sticking out of one, no wait! two of our tiki lanterns. Upon further investigation, I came to a sick realization that it was the remains of two birds protruding from the unbelievably small holes in the tops of the lanterns.

I completely and immediately lost my appetite, and spent the next hour trying to conjure up the sad scenarios of these poor creatures' demises. "Maybe they squeezed themselves in there to be warm, and then got stuck." "Maybe something smelled good and they went for it." "Maybe they were trying to make a little winter bird house." Seriously, I really did think all these thoughts. And, most importantly, how in the world am I going to deal with this mess?

My mom came by later that afternoon for a visit, and I was relating my sickening tale. She decided to creep out and take a look, and...

oh, wait. It was the lanterns' wicks .

The wicks!

Please tell me I'm not completely crazy, and that the picture does look like a bird!

2009-03-26T12:33:00.004-04:00

at least the good doctor gets some form of entertainment in every once in a while.

my loverly little lady at 4 months

2009-03-16T20:37:00.004-04:00

can't imagine life without her!

getting in touch with our inner beasts

2009-03-16T20:25:00.006-04:00

Grant getting intimately acquainted with his friend Hippo

The Food Chain in action

Lately, we've discarded all and any mention of Star Wars and replaced it with an all-consuming love of God's creatures great and small. My day will start out (literally, I mean from second ONE) with one of my boys proclaiming, "Mom, which meat-eating desert animal do you want to be?" Or, "Mom, you can pick your fourth favorite species of shark to be today." The other night Nate and I were out to dinner when the sitter called: Jack was running a fever and was awake and unhappy. We hurried home and were waking him for some medicine as he uttered, sleepily but articulately: "RE-TI-CU-LA-TED PYTHON!" What a dream we must have interrupted!

Good thing we live in a cool place where there's a fabulous aquarium and a huge, nearby zoo to feed the fetish.

to a lovely pediatrician, dictated by Jack and transcribed by his mom

2009-02-26T13:55:00.006-05:00

I sent this in the mail today. Hopefully, its intentions will be well-received.

Dear Dr. Woehling,

You asked me to write you a letter when I started going poop on the potty, and I did it! I've gone ten times since I visited you! I like Miralax because it makes my poop soft. I did NOT like the enemas because they were like little drills. Every time I poop, my Grandma takes me on an outing. I even drew a picture of my poop for you. {unfortunately not included in this post.} Thank you for telling me lots of good ideas! See you soon!

Love,

Jack Richards

mostly for the out-of-towners

2009-02-20T21:12:00.009-05:00

Here are a few pics of us mosying around... nothing too exciting, especially considering my great lack of photography skills. Grandparents and other adoring fans: feel free to look past that and enjoy the exquisitely dashing Richards clan.

sledding with Grandpa: could life get any better?

Here's what I woke up to one morning. Never could I have imagined how priceless some 99-cent safari hats from Michael's could be.

This is Miss Caroline, pre-baldness. Sure enough, she's losing hair by the hour! We're holding our breath to see what comes in. In the meantime, she's got some really cute veins on her head.

Ring-Around-the-Rosy with Grandma, aka Jack's fiance. ("But Grandma, if I marry you, then I'll have TWO Grandma Richards!")

Happy 3-month Birthday, sweet Caroline!

This was supposed to be a perfect Valentines Morning photo op with the two boys kissing Caroline on her cheeks. Sounds cute, right? Jack, however, decided to let Froghead act as proxy for himself. Froghead doesn't like girls, I was informed, hence the distance from her.

Ah, the ExerSaucer! A new phase begins, one in which my legs will now be clean shaven!

just a little amputation

2009-02-20T20:59:00.003-05:00

For fear of this blog starting to sound like a bag-on-Nate forum, let me be clear: he is a wonderful, compassionate physician, an awesome dad, and the only man on earth that could ever put up with all my antics.

That being said, I must chronicle our little twenty-second conversation this afternoon:

Nate: "Babe, let me call you back in a sec. I'm just scrubbing in for a quick little amputation."

Me: "A quick little WHAT?"

Nate: "Oh, just this old guy's foot. It'll be quick, I promise."

And for once, I was the one who was speechless, even past the point of monosyllabic grunts.

is this normal?

2009-02-09T11:21:00.001-05:00

So, I just realized I had a complete, 10-minute, expressive, animated, and heartfelt conversation with my husband, who uttered two monosyllabic grunts. He then found great pleasure in mocking me. Hhhmmm.

oh, jacky...

2009-01-25T20:13:00.002-05:00

Jack, Jacker, Jacksters, Jackaroo. He is my little man. What an exuberant fellow he is! When he's happy, man oh man is he an affectionate kiddo. He comes at life passionately, to put it mildly...

Yesterday, we're at Borders. "Mom, can I have a present?' "No, Jacky."

A few minutes later, "Mom, can Grant have a present?" "No, sorry, bud. Christmas is over and I don't have money for presents right now."

Again, a few minutes later, " Mom!!" (and let me be clear here, when Jack wants my or anyone's attention, he means business. LOUD and clear!) "Mom, do we still have some cookies?"

"Yes, bud."

"Well Mom, I don't need money. I'll just get Grant his present... with cookies!

I love him.

feelin' patriotic

2009-01-20T20:27:00.002-05:00

"Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends -- hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism -- these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world; duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship."

I felt almost electric with chills today as I listened to Obama's inaugural address. I was proud to be a citizen of this great nation as I sat with Grant and tried to explain the magnitude of this historic day while we watched together. Whether or not you voted for him, don't you feel that this nation will be galvanized and refreshed as new challenges and opportunities are presented? I do. I look toward the future with hope and a curious sense of promise.

for the man

2009-01-16T10:27:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to the love of my life. It's been fifteen years to the day since our first date! And I've been in love for a long, long time. Thanks, Nate, for making every day, even the hard ones, sweet.

Caroline is 2 months!

2009-01-12T14:25:00.009-05:00

la-dee-da... here is our little babe at 2 months. How time flies! She continues to be such a happy, good baby... so tolerant of all the commotion, and very expressive. She is a joy! It's interesting what three kids (and the fact that it's freezing outside) will do to you! I used to go insane if I didn't leave the house at least once a day. Now, I'll do anything to avoid it! Grocery shopping online, check. (Hey, with free delivery, who wouldn't?) Have Nate run to CVS on his way home, check. Carpool as much as possible to preschool and praise the school bus, check.

So why is it that my days just seem to zip by?

musings on 2009

2009-01-04T18:23:00.003-05:00

In lieu of a rambling list of half-kept resolutions, I have decided this year to incorporate a theme of sorts that can become my mantra for 2009. Thanks, Elise, for inspiring this brilliant idea.

My "theme" this year stems from a talk that President Monson gave in his most recent address. He spoke of finding joy in the present, day-to-day occurrances; joy in the "little things." I reread this talk about a week after Caroline was born, and I remember vividly the events of the subsequent night: Nate was working the night float that week, and my mom was asleep in the basement (so that at least ONE of us could be rested!) In the course of that particular evening, Caroline was up two or three times and a little fussy, Jack wet his bed and was sad, and Grant had a couple of bad dreams and was frantically in and out of my bed. But, somehow through the course of that night, the words from President Monson's talk floated around in my head: "Enjoy those sleepless nights, those piles of laundry, because they won't be there forever, and will be sorely missed." I thought to myself, "Well, at least I am extremely popular this evening! Three sweet little people certainly are vying for my attention and love!" And the thought made a potentially twilight-zone kind of experience one that I will now treasure.

So. As 2009 begins, I want to focus on "finding joy... now." I know I can incorporate this into every aspect of my life. Obviously, finding joy in putting my little people first, and enjoying each day with them, will be my main focus. But also, finding joy in lung-searing, gut-wrenching exercise as I work towards specific fitness goals and races. Finding joy in witnessing my students' progress and love of music grow, and finding joy in knowing that there are times and seasons for everything, even if now is not the season to be focusing on my own performing. Finding joy in the time I have with Nate, even if it is limited, and making the most of our time together. Finding joy in the changing of seasons. Finding joy in the company of great friends.

You get the picture. Wish me luck! I look forward to a more optimistic outlook, and the promise of a bright 2009...

it's time

2008-12-13T08:38:00.002-05:00

I was at a Farmer's Market today and I noticed an Amish girl on break from the bread and produce stand that she and her family operates. She was sitting at a table, busily texting on her phone!

I think it's time I start learning the fine art of texting. I feel rather behind the times. My one question is:

how does she charge her phone??????

(I mean no disrespect to the Amish faith, of course. Just a little curious...)

Her Highness ... presented by Katie Dudley Photography

2008-12-08T20:43:00.009-05:00

And here is our new favorite little girl in High Quality...

For your (and our) viewing pleasure.

You can enjoy the movie link for a slideshow.

Be sure to visit the website of Katie Dudley, photographer extraordinare, the artist behind these masterpieces! What incredible work!

Visit her website here:

www.kdphotography.org

sweetest days...

2008-11-30T16:13:00.009-05:00

Caroline's almost three weeks old! Here are a few pictures for those interested fans, and an assortment of random snapshots of recent events. What a sweetheart little miss Caroline is! I managed to make it through that first week of nursing trauma (I seem to always have a hard time managing the watermelon tumors that remarkably and profoundly erupt on day 3, and cause me emotional grief every time!) Our "quest for rest" is going well... for the most part, Caroline is waking only once a night. The boys are loving holding and bathing her, and Grant is on a mission to teach her the names of poisonous reptiles. As for Jack, he informed me last night that I am a woman. Oh? "Yeah mom, you're a woman now. You used to be a whale, but now you're a woman." Hhhhmmm.

Grant enjoying his hand-picked 6 year old birthday meal of kosher beef dawgs, chips, and pears. word.

Nate was jealous of Jenny for the past nine months. He was particularly tired of her telling him, "you don't know what it's like," and "you men...you'll never understand." So, he stuffed Caroline into the Baby Bjorn and zipped up the vest for a nice warm winter's walk. Hmmph. What's all the fuss about...

Caroline's Thanksgiving outfit. (yes, you can have a special outfit for anything these days...you should see her Tuesday Morning Outfit...wow, it's a looker)

Burp. he he. Burp. ahhh. he he. um. excuse me.

I think I can feel the stuffing in the back of my throat. How am I going to make room for the pie, and that extra pack of fruit snacks that I know my Mom keeps in her purse.

gratitude, verbatim

2008-11-25T20:57:00.003-05:00

In light of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, our family took turns and penned a list of things we're grateful for. As usual, no editing or censoring has occurred.

1. Baby Caroline
2. The bed I sleep in
3. Coming home from work
4. Jesus
5. My family
6. Food
7. The gospel
8. My children
9. My food
10. All my friends
11. Grandparents
12. Warm house
13. Water
14. The creatures on earth
15. My wife
16. Tender mercies of the past week
17. Juice Boxes
18. Our eyes
19. My mission
20. Beautiful music
21. Lights
22. The sun
23. My girls
24. The prophet
25. Our house
26. The earth
27. The temple
28. My sweetheart, Nate
29. Tables
30. Our brains
31. School
32. Caroline's health
33. Caroline's swing
34. The toilet
35. Christmas
36. That we live in America
37. GA GA GOO GOO (thanks, Jack)
38. Oxygen
39. Family Home Evening
40. Others' help
41. Clothes
42. Clocks.

We're grateful for all of you. Happy Thanksgiving. We are so filled with gratitude at this magical time with a tiny newborn in our house. There's nothing like it!

Announcing my arrival....

2008-11-12T23:39:00.000-05:00

well folks, this is Nate, it's official....

she decided to join us...

Caroline Grace Richards
11/12/08 at 12:51 pm
8 lbs. 8.6 oz
21 3/4 inches

priceless...you can see a slideshow of today's pictures at the right of your screen. feel free to click the link to see better.

more to come, but for now, i'm off to bed.

Halloweenin'

2008-11-05T13:34:00.005-05:00

Halloween, for us, is more of a season than a holiday. Our festivities began with our annual "Hayride to the Witches House" at Linvilla Orchards. We went with Dan and Hailey and Preston the Great, and are bummed that we don't have a picture with them...
The ward party and trunk-or-treat, always a hit

Jack, aka Darth Vader, making his preschool class debut

He took himself VERY seriously

Grant, aka Swamp Monster, enjoying his class party. I was able to help out as one of the homeroom moms... what an entertaining event!

Marching along at the school Halloween Parade

And, the trick-o-treating itself. Our good friends the Dudleys had us over for the world's best manicotti ever. I was flying solo because Nate was working nights, but I hauled my big self around two neighborhoods and we had a great time.

Hope everyone had a great one! By the way, I'm dilated to a 3 and fully effaced, as of Monday. Let's get this girl out!!!

a little of this and a little of that

2008-10-18T13:03:00.013-04:00

Fall is officially upon us... our favorite season on the East Coast. Life is good, busy, and increasingly uncomfortable as I waddle my way through the days. 4 weeks to go!

Here's a little of what we've been up to:

The nursery is 95% done, thanks to my mom, Nate, and Hailey. Thank you so much for all your help! And of course to my sisters-in-law who gave me the bedding that I thought I could only dream of! (I still need to iron the crib skirt.) I love it! I love that we used oil paint on the trim, not because I was trying to inhale it in my pregnant state, but because it makes our whole house smell new.

Go Phillies! We definitely consider ourselves "Phanatical Phillies Phans" around here!

Go Obama! Don't worry everyone, we're still good, honest, active Mormon folks.

Here's a few pictures of the boys enjoying themselves...

Obi Wan Kenobi, Plumbing Fun, and Hornbills

2008-09-28T21:11:00.002-04:00

A few of you may remember a post I wrote a few months ago, expressing my frustration at the lack of potty training progress. Well, hats off to Jack Richards and his mom, because it finally came together in the last month. The clincher? Star Wars action figures did the trick. It hurt the budget a tad, but each time Jack did a #2 on the toilet, we went to Target and bought him a "guy," until his collection included about 10 characters. Sweet.

Well, sweet until this week, when Obi-Wan went tumbling into the toilet as Jack flushed. For a few days, the toilet was a little sluggish, but all was well, and I thought we had wiped our hands of the problem. Not so. Tuesday night, it hit the fan. Every water-producing edifice in our home, when engaged, caused the toilet to explode with a watery vomit of sewage and food waste. Not just a little... this was major, major, major. Of course, Nate was still at work and I had all the YW in my house, making dinner for one of our leaders who just had a baby. Grant was my little helper, dashing up and down for "more towels! No, LOTS more towels!"

The next day, after RotoRooter finished his dirty little 9 hours of work and cruelly left us $900 poorer, Nate asked, "Now, why is it that we potty trained Jack? Just think of how many diapers we could have bought for $900!" The irony.

On a lighter note; while we're still on the subject of fecal waste, Grant said pleasantly this evening: "Mom, aren't you glad you're not a hornbill?" "Well, why yes, I'm glad I'm not a hornbill, Grant. Why do you ask, though?" "Because hornbills poop on their babies. ONLY on their babies." Grant's fascination with animal facts sure comes in handy sometimes. At least I'm not a hornbill.

placenta brain

2008-09-20T21:18:00.003-04:00

What a productive week! This week, I did the following:

-Booked two babysitters for the same time. I was already teaching when the second one arrived. That was an interesting scenario.

-Lost my debit card. Found my debit card. Lost my debit card. Cancelled my debit card and ordered a new one.

-Took Grant's first school library book in the jogger while I walked (oops, waddled) with Jack. Left it in the jogger. It was ruined the next day in the rain. Somehow, I thought a little tape job would fix it. Not surprisingly, I got a somewhat perturbed note from the librarian, asking that the $10 replacement fee be paid immediately. Way to start off a relationship with Grant's school personnel on the right foot.

-Left my Mary Poppins (meaning= EVERYTHING IN IT) purse in the kindergarten classroom at Back to School Night. Got a call late that evening from the principal, thankfully. Again, I'm gaining quite a reputation at the school.

Wish me luck, folks. Can anyone help me remember my phone #?

1st Days

2008-09-08T20:42:00.010-04:00

Grant studying up before he headed out the door on the first day

giving me the "thumbs up" as he boarded the bus

totally pumped and ready to go in

Jack and his best, best bud Jack Dudley: the inseparable two Jacks

With Grant in a five-day pre-K last year, I didn't anticipate that kindergarten would be too big of a deal. But two things got me: the bus, and the paperwork. Watching Grant climb aboard that big bus, I honestly got a lump in my throat. It wasn't the "I wish he was still at home with me" lump, but more of the "Please world, be good to him. He's too sweet to have anything scary or unpredictable or overwhelming happen to him." Me and all the other parents on the block stood and hungrily watched the bus pull away, not unlike the paparazzi must do to celebrities, waving and snapping pictures. My little celebrity, Grant. Watch out, Chestnutwold Elementary... Grant Richards has arrived! And if anyone isn't nice to him, I'll hunt them down...

As for the second factor of some consternation, I don't think I'm a mature enough adult to be able to handle all of the logistical details that I am responsible for. Book orders, permission slips, phone trees, volunteer schedules, PTO opportunities, bake sales, insurance forms for WHILE they're in school.... for the love! I thought turning 30 and having a third child would help me grow up, but apparently not. I'm going to have to suck it up now.

And then there's Mr. Jack. When Grant started preschool, it was a sweet and careful beginning, which fed my mom-ego quite nicely: "He needs me!" He let me stay with him for the first 15 minutes, held my hand, kissed me goodbye, and quietly reassured me that he'd be OK. Which in turn, quietly reassured me that I'd be ok, too. Not Jack. He marched in like nobody's business: "Hello! I'm Jack Richards! Are you my teacher?" When I asked if he was ready for me to go, he looked at me like I was crazy: "Mom, go home! I'm at SCHOOL!" Thankfully, he was equally boisterous when I picked him up, the last mom to arrive (dangit!!)! I'm truly so proud of him.

There is an indescribably powerful love that a mother possesses for her children, and I felt it overwhelmingly this week. And it was complete and utter joy today as I watched Grant race into Jack's embrace after deboarding the bus, exclaiming, "Jack, buddy-- how did your first day go?" Oh, I love my dudes.

...and thus it ends

2008-08-27T20:25:00.015-04:00

Jack struttin' his stuff in Colter Bay

lovin' the Alpine Slide with Grandma as a partner. Too bad they were stuck behind the slow pregnant lady: they had to come to a complete stop several times...

Who says boys can't play dress-up?

Inspiration Point, overlooking Jenny Lake. (I was actually thinking more along the lines of Desperation Point, but hey, that's just me)

twenty, yes twenty cousins hiking in Jackson. People thought we were some kind of day camp.

Grant and cousin Cort... their first sleepover!

Well, it's a wrap. Summer, that is. What a great one we had! After being away for 14 months, it was high time to find ourselves in good company in SLC and vicinity for a few weeks. This visit has inspired me to compile the:

Top Ten Things About Visiting Utah

1. Cousins. Could a trip to Jackson Hole with twenty youngsters under the age of 11 be any more fun for our boys? What a great time! Thanks, G and G Richards!

2. The mountains. Whoa. I always forget. When I lived in NYC, it was always a shocker to come back and see how big they really are. Same thing now. I kept thinking about all my neighbors who've never been west of the Mississippi. What a tragedy.

3. Easily accessible swimming pools. Which goes right together with #1.

4. Food. I can't help myself, but joints like Cafe Rio and Hires just can't be beat, even though Nate and I like to pretend we're East Coast Fine Cuisine Snobs.

5. Park City, home of my parents for the time being, because they're selling their house and MOVING TO PHILLY! (More on this soon.) My boys loved being at the condo; the highlight was Grant nearly stepping on a snake near the bordering Wildlife Reserve. The look on his face was truly priceless. No pic, but imagine joy and horror combined and you've got it.

6. The cabin. Oh, it was joyful to be in the cold basement bedroom. We'd been away much. much too long.

7. Chillin' with family. Todd and Rose, John and Ang, Matt, and Andrew: we had a blast with you before we all headed out in opposite directions. Of course, all of you local to Utah were equally great! It was fun to jam with Micah the future B'way star, watch SYTYCD (I'm not a huge fan, though), and talk talk talk late into the nights. Nothing beats putting your kids down all in the same house! And Emilee, thanks for parting with many obligations to hang out with me!

8. No grocery bills, no AC bills, no water bills, no responsibilities, no commitments. Ah, the luxuries.

9. Michael Phelps. Oops, we could've enjoyed his prowess from anywhere, but it was central to our Utah visit. Anyone know what he listens to on his iPod right before he makes history? I'd love to download it, whatever it is.

10. Good friends who remind us of good times. Ben and Julie--get back to NY, and Jes--please come visit. We love you!

And now, to fall! I'm 29 weeks, look like I'm 43 weeks, but feeling good. We're taking deep breaths before we'll be busier than ever, starting next week. Two boys in school (freedom for me, two mornings a week?!!) , swimming, soccer, football, 20 piano students, Nate putting in 16-hour days, six days a week, and the inevitable nesting that's already kicking in before our daughter debuts in November....

Hope everyone enjoyed their summer! We'd love to hear from you!

Grant's "I'll Never Do" list

2008-07-24T13:46:00.004-04:00

This list was compiled this morning by the author. Grant would like to share it. Spelling has not been edited.
1. I'll never take a tub.
2. I'll never have a dinosaur party.
3. I'll never say bad words.
4. I'll never remember mokingbirds.
5. I'll never go ice cateing.
6. I'll never pudt a snowball on my ie.
7. I'll never touch the fire.
8. I'll never boge. (budge.)
9. I'll never watch Wonder Pets.
10. I'll never spell enething with a j, not inclooding Jack.
11. I'll never look for bugs not inclooding spiders.
12. I'll never wash my hands with cold water.
13. I'll never mete an aligaitor.
14. I'll never travel too antartica.
15. I'll never eat chees.
16. I'll never hide in or by a spiderweb.
17. I'll never make dertey food.
18. I'll never mess up fernicher.

There you have it. At least he'll never budge!

TGIF, and S, and S

2008-07-20T21:05:00.012-04:00

During the week, we tease that we "catch a glimpse" of Nate as he passes in and out of night float. Typically, he'll get home around 8:30 or 9:00 am and will leave again at 4:15 to make it into work by 5. Most of this time is taken up by the unfortunate human necessity of sleep, although he functions on an impressively small quantity. (If I were to get by on what he gets by on, I would not be a very nice person.)

However, on Fridays, the kids know that dad will crash until noon, and then we're rockin' and rollin.' We've been trying to take advantage of our summer weekends of living on the East Coast... so many beautiful places, big cities, and historical sites to explore! Good thing we've got four more years here; I don't know how we'd pack it all in otherwise.

One weekend, we went camping on the Delaware River with our great friends the Michauds, the camping experts. While I didn't bring the camera on the river itself, here are a few pics.

Nate and Grant clearly happy to be at our campsite, all set up

a surprisingly good night's sleep in the tent, except for me of course..terrified of bears all night!

Jack the budding fisherman, but alas, didn't catch any. At least he's got a good supply of chocolate chip cookies on his face to stave off hunger during those long, biteless hours

Dingman's Falls: a beautiful, cool waterfall in what Pennsylvanians think are mountains

This past weekend, we journeyed the 5 hours up to Palmyra to pay a visit to the Church history sites. Our stake's YM/YW was attending the Hill Cumorah Pageant as part of youth conference, so we joined them for that. It was beautiful, albeit hot and humid, and the boys had a great time.

The Palmyra Temple (Jack was experiencing a temporary meltdown and refused to look at the camera)

Grant with Laura Ebeling, a YW in our ward who happens to be one of his favorite babysitters. We think she makes a pretty good Princess Leia.

At the pageant: a very late night, especially for Grant, who thrives on going to bed promptly at 8:30. Way to be tough, bud.

I love my boys. They are such good friends!

Outside the Sacred Grove. An amazing place! Grant said it made him feel happy and sleepy.

Ummm...Not exactly

2008-07-06T04:18:00.002-04:00

So, I am on call at the hospital...surprise, surprise...I check the blog during some downtime and "Whoa, that's not what I said" pops to my mind. Therefore, before I become a punching bag for all things having to do with men and pregnancy...let me correct the public record.

First: Our conversation needs to be put in context. We were finishing the annual Havertown 4th of July bike parade and I looked over at my adorable wife. I remembered 6 years ago when we were staying in a sweet New York City pad and Jenny was expecting Grant. I recalled that Jenny's first sojourn in maternity clothes during that pregnancy was for a little party that we threw for some of our friends. It was a really cute pink shirt with a white collar and some well ironed white capri's. She didn't really "need" to wear it, because she hadn't really "popped" (I think that's the correct term), but she was a little thicker and it was really pretty. I then compared that picture, to what I was currently looking at...My adorable wife in some hot neon green shirt she made at Young Women's Camp and black cut-off sweats. I was struck by the comparison, and decided to compliment Jenny on her beautiful self (something I now wish I hadn't done). I said, "You know, you are a lot skinnier during this pregnancy than you were with Grant 6 years ago," because she is. Her arms, neck, legs, face, etc are skinnier. Then I said, "you really are a lot skinnier and your belly is a littlemore round then it was. You look really good pregnant." Of course, I realized by the steam coming from her ears that she didn't catch the drift of my compliment and I further clarified, "No, what I'm trying to say is you are skinnier than you were so your belly is more obvious because it's not hidden by as much weight gain." (I don't think she heard this part, or if she did it probably sounded like the adults in Charlie Brown's world...Blah blah blah).

Second: Jenny is super self conscious about her supposed varicose veins. I get questions all the time about "is this bigger" or "is this a varicose vein", to which my answer is always, "no" and "I think that's a mosquito bite, babe." With regard to my attempt at humor regarding her "new" varicose vein that she thinks I was pointing out...well, I'll admit that it was probably poor timing. What I should have said was something like this, "You're awesome, I'm not. You're pretty, I'm ugly. You're smart, I'm dumb. You're nice, I'm Mean. You're right, I'm wrong..." you get the drift.

Third: Jenny does have some sweet new gray hairs. I think their cute, and I'm glad that Grant picked up on them without my prompting.

So there you have it. The truth, and my side of the story.

gray matter and a dose of humility

2008-07-05T18:52:00.006-04:00

Today, I'm reading Magic Tree House with Grant, who I happen to notice is looking at my head quite intently. When I ask him what he's doing, he replies,

"Oh, I'm just counting gray hairs on your head."

I race to the mirror.

"Where?"

"Well , just all over. Although, I guess it could be brain matter seeping out. Our brains are gray, you know."

I guess I've just got to hope for the latter. Maybe I'm so intelligent that my brain just can't be contained in my head.

Oh, and then there's Nate. Granted, he's lost his tact filter due to prolonged sleep deprivation, but this does mean he can't sugarcoat anything. He says what he means, if you catch my drift.

Yesterday:

"Hey babe, you're looking a lot thinner than you have with other pregnancies. Your stomach's bigger, though."

"Thanks. (?)

"But you do have some varicose veins."

Whoa. Am I letting myself go here? Leave it to my family to keep me humble, in pants, and in search of a good colorist...

it's a...

2008-06-25T20:58:00.000-04:00

didn't know it was possible... but we're sure excited!

Grant, ever the intuitive child, knew from the get-go that it was a girl, and grew increasing agitated as I tried to explain that there was a great possibility that it may be another brother. As we returned from the ultrasound, he was waiting on the front porch, eagerly hoping it was "the news I want it to be!" When we told him, a smile of pure joy spread across his face. Later that night, he was kissing my belly, saying "thank you! Thank you in there!" Jack, meanwhile, continues to insist that the baby in HIS tummy is "definitely a boy."

J A C K

2008-06-22T20:49:00.000-04:00

energetic beautiful imaginative snuggly squishy-cheeked friendly thoughtful silly stubborn intelligent compassionate intense courageous creative inquisitive

JaCk PrEsToN RiChArDs

What would we do without our Jacky?

How we love our goodmorning smooch-giving,

our strawberrymilk-sugarycereal-chocolatechip poptart-loving,

star-wars soundtrack belting,

T-rex-impersonating,

book-obsessing,

vacuum-fearing,

animal-loving,

snuggle-giving,

racecar sprinting,

chef-aspiring,

joke-telling,

day-brightening,

hope-giving

3-year-old boy!

Happy Birthday, buddy. We love you!

8 is great... with Nate

2008-06-15T14:07:00.000-04:00

It's hard to BeLiEvE it's been 8 Years! yes.. that picture IS moments after Nate proposed. We were dorky enough to re-enact the event for the self-timer on the camera....

Pardon my traversal down MEMORY LANE...

June 15, 2000:

After 6 years of dating and an 11-month engagement, we finally made it! Highlights of the day... a long time to quietly contemplate alone in the celestial room before the ceremony, a quick run to Crown Burger after pictures, a funny mix-up with Nate and Fast Eddie Edwards, and a luxurious night at Wolfcrest...

June 15, 2001:

An awesome night in the World Trade Marriott, NYC... right before the fated September 11. Great Italian dinner, lovin' the view-- a step up and a subway ride down from our Morningside Heights apartment...

June 15, 2002:

Livin' large in the Davidson's sprawling 23rd floor Upper West Side apartment. We couldn't NOT spend our anniversary in that place.. overlooking the Hudson, throwing chocolate chips off the balcony, dreaming about our little babe in the belly, and playing lots and lots and lots of Settlers...

June 15, 2003

Back to Wolfcrest! Thanks to mom, our first night without Grant, although he occupied a great deal of our conversations...

June 15, 2004

A visit to San Fran, John and Ang, and a long walk on the wharf...

June 15, 2005

Me uncomfortable and hugely pregnant, we dined elegantly on Cafe Rio one week before Jack's birth...

June 15, 2006

Two weeks into residency. A night in Philly, Nate lookin' hot in a tux as we celebrated at the Union League for a dinner honoring the outgoing chiefs...

June 15, 2007

Our first anniversary apart... me in Utah, Nate slaving away at work, of course. A lovely Park City getaway was partaken of a week early, thankfully...

And, here we are! This year is Father's Day... and we celebrate as a family, honoring the World's BEST Dad. Here's to 8 great years as your wife, babe! Thanks for every, single day!~

summer lovin'

2008-06-12T21:27:00.000-04:00

Outer Banks, North Carolina... what an awesome place to visit! Thanks Shari and Richard, Rachel and Nate, and all the kiddos for a FABULOUS TIME!

A final highlight was meeting up in DC with our great friends, the Sykes, who are resi"dancing" in Rochester, Minnesota at Mayo's Anesthesia program. How we've missed them! It was great to pick right up where we left off, and nice to catch up on each other's lives. Thanks for being the great friends you are!

and now, where were we? ah, yes. night float....

G'bye, Nate!

LoNg LoSt LoVe

2008-05-20T21:16:00.000-04:00

So sad... our sweet little nephew Preston has been whisked away from us. His parents have become infatuated by the siren song of a little company called Google. Fortunately, it's an internship, but unfortunately, internships often lead to jobs, especially when there's an older brother named John lurking in this process...

We'll miss you guys! Dan, Hailey, and Preston have been our lifesavers, our sanity, our humor, our one source of reliably good meals, and our strength. Find within yourselves the desire to take a job here, Dan. It really could be a good life, right?

tidbits...

2008-05-05T22:01:00.000-04:00

Not been great on the blogging front lately. This last month has been a whirlwind of life, really. Every day seems to be packed to the max, and maybe it's because I've got a little less gusto than usual to manage it! However, my 13th week has begun, and just like that, I'm feeling marvelous!

Here's a little bit of what we've been up to lately:

T-Ball, T-Ball, T-Ball. This, I know, is the beginning of a great, long saga in our family's existence. Hopefully, it'll get a little more, (how can we put this politely?), "skilled," as the games continue. Nevertheless, Grant is in seventh heaven. I'll vehemently deny it in later years, so don't quote me, but T-Ball for Grant and his teammates currently consists of: chewing on one's mitt in the outfield while watching airplanes in the sky, fighting over who got the ball first(meanwhile, the other guy's running all the bases), high-fiving the first baseman as one safely reaches first base, and grabbing one's crotch as one stops on each base (no bathrooms, just a bush.) However, to his credit, this kid's got a mean, fast hit, and is a pretty great little runner too. And, he absolutely loves every minute of it.

you can see that Jack would like to participate

The phenomenon of balance. Grant has decided it's time for the training wheels to come off, and is determined to get it, no matter how many falls. He's a perseverant little guy, and despite lots of tumbles and my aching back as I hunch over to help him steady himself, he's making progress. Any tips? Meanwhile, Jack's decided his "baby trike" just won't do, so we got him a little "real" bike with training wheels. It's pretty teeny. He thinks it's the bomb.

Sleepless nights, er days, er...? Nate recently completed several weeks of night float. I've got to hand it to this guy...he can function on hardly anything! He works SO hard. I know that someday, some patient on the operating table will be grateful for his life spared due to Nate's rigorous training. Some rotations are obviously harder than others, and having gone through two traumas gigs (vicariously), I can now claim truthfully that we fly a flag of victory after getting through them. I truly felt pity for poor Nate when he rolled into church last week after (no exaggeration) six hours of sleep in the previous 72, and tried mightily to lift his eyeballs into even a semi-open state. He was pretty much comatose, but I admire his commitment and what that says to our kids by being there.

Ah, New York. Saturday was a great day. My sisters Sarah and Laura and I participated in a Run/Walk for women's cancers together. The cause is great, but so much more meaningful because of Sarah's fight with breast cancer. It was emotional to be in Times Square with 50,000 other women who all wore signs of "in support of" or "in memory of" on their backs. Thank you, Sarah and Laura, for an amazing opportunity. I hope we can do it again.

And of course, a couple of pictures of enjoying the city with the kids. My heart nearly burst with joy when Grant said, "Mom, the whole time I was in your tummy and you and Dad lived here, I was just busting to get out! I love this place!" That's my boy.

crossing the Brooklyn Bridge... becoming a tradition

ah, hem...

2008-04-18T21:04:00.000-04:00

All right, people.... let the truth be known....

We've got a

and if that's not clear enough, let's just say that there's a

roaming around our house these days!

I'm due on Grant's birthday, November 15, which makes me about 10 weeks pregnant. I know this is still pretty early on, but we just can't keep this a secret for much longer! Actually, Grant let the cat out of the bag several weeks ago when he was asked to give the closing prayer in Primary. He said, "Heavenly Father, please help me to keep my mommy's secret, and only tell the people she told me I could tell." (So, we probably shouldn't have told him so soon, but he has been begging and praying and scheming and dreaming about a new baby for months and months and months! The fact that I'm due on his 6th birthday has been a source of utter joy and excitement for him.)

The bottom line is...wish us luck!

a solicitous, somewhat desperate plea

2008-04-15T22:39:00.000-04:00

Yup, you guessed it. This post addresses one of my all-time favorite featurettes in the story of motherhood: potty training. I'm writing with sort of a guilty, nagging sense of shame. You see, Jack is nearly 3, and is dead set on NOT becoming toilet trained. By writing this, I am allowing myself to become quite vulnerable and open to mocking and jeering by all you fabulous moms who wiped your hands of the process (literally!) in a matter of days when your kids were, oh, maybe 15 months...

But now in my utter meekness, I am seeking your advice. I've tried bribes. I've made the chart with the most amazing stickers as a reward (that's what did it for Grant.) I've bought the cool underwear. I've begged, praised, cajoled, and the other day declared with gusto that our house was going to become a "poop free zone!" (Grant was slightly concerned about that, but really I meant "poop-in-the-diaper" free zone.) We've practiced sword fighting (well, I haven't. But we've watched Grant demonstrate.) We've read books and watched movies. What am I missing here?

Lately, Jack will say, "Mom, don't worry, I'll go on Thursday." "Saturday." "Tuesday." But, to no avail. The problem is, the kid is 40 lbs. He looks like he's 4. He doesn't FIT in diapers, and good heavens, he poops man-poops! (Sorry for the frank language.) I took him to Target and had him try all the little potty seats, and his cute, big bum can't even squeeze on any of them! We've got a little seat that fits over the big toilet, and that's going to have to cut it.

Should I just drop it and leave the poor guy alone, or can anyone give me some pointers?

a little sojourn down south

2008-03-31T20:20:00.000-04:00

One of the handful of good things about Nate's residency (I'll list the not-so-good sometime when I need sympathy) is his four weeks off every year. I've mentioned in an earlier post that I have dubbed them the "keep-me-sane weeks," which is exactly what they are.

This past one was spent on a meandering, spontaneous vacation through Virginia and down into Charlotte, North Carolina to see our great friends, Harland and Heather Hayes. Although we spent close to 24 hours in the car, it was so, so great to just be together as a family. We flew by the seat of our pants: no real set itinerary (right down to calling motel after motel in Roanoke to see if anyone had availability! Not exactly my uptight, control-freak style, but very refreshing...) no commitments, no obligations. It was bliss. Here's a few pics of our adventures.

good buddies: Grant and Cannon

the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Va (a detour for Nate the history buff)

inside the Luray Caverns (amazing....)

our freezing hike in the leafless Shenandoah National Park (we'll be back in the fall!)

we couldn't resist the 1960's roadside feature: Dinosaur Land!

Jack conjuring up a scared face for that frightening papier-mache creature

if that's not authentic, I'll eat my foot

good times.

Bravo! Encore!

2008-03-16T21:36:00.000-04:00

Friday was Grant's first piano recital. Way to go, Granter!

waxing sentimental

2008-03-07T20:43:00.000-05:00

A wise woman reminded me this week how important it is to slow down and enjoy the moment: little ones won't be little for long. So often my gears are whirring like mad: get that load of laundry in, make that grocery list, call that student, pick up the sitter, plan YW, wash that floor, clean up those toys that have barely been out, get that dinner on, go, go, go. But this week, I've been trying a little harder to heed the profound advice.

I am a lucky girl. Today, a cozy, rainy Friday with no piano students to teach and no pressing commitments to occupy me, I got to experience the little world of my boys that sometimes passes by me as I zip around. I got to be an Allosaurus until my voice is hoarse. I had my hair brushed tenderly on several occasions by Jack. I got to give and receive backrubs, read about 25 library books, watch Sword in the Stone after dinner while eating ice cream (yes, this is the same day as my Cadbury post... I'm on a roll), and engage in animated discussions about knights, Star Wars, amphibians, egg-eating dinosaurs, and good Lamanites with my little people.

There are so many of you out there who I look up to as mothers. I only hope to learn from you and make more days like today, because I know that Grant and Jack won't always want me to be an audience and an active participant in their every moment forever.

a question

2008-03-07T20:31:00.000-05:00

Why is it that it only takes me twenty minutes to go from doing this:

to nibbling this?

Darn that Canadian chocolate that appears only once a year! Why does it have to be so good?

Snow...at Last!

2008-02-22T14:42:00.001-05:00

Many of you may think it strange that we are celebrating snow with such pompous, riotous glee. But when it's the first, and possibly ONLY snowstorm of the year, it's good reason! My friend Shari and I have been on the phone several times this winter with the Mt. Pocono Ski Resort (two hours away), inquiring in hopes that there was perhaps an inch or two up there for us to pretend to sled on! We were willing to go the distance, but so far, our hopes had been dashed. Not even the artificial stuff they stick on the ground for skiiers in the Poconos was doing it's thing.

But lo and behold: today, the snow gods smiled upon us! We hit the sledding slopes first thing in the morning. Schools here close immediately with even a whiff of snow, so we knew we could plan on a morning of glorious freedom. Grant sledded his guts out. Jack went from sledding to making dinosaur tracks to shoveling out the tunnel at the playground with his bare hands (and a plumber's crack to boot, as always!) Good times.

Now, will it stick so Nate's first day off in 17 days can be spent with his little dudes in the powder? I'm crossing my fingers...

{sorry about our sad, out-of-focus camera. it leaves much to the imagination...}

David McCullough for President

2008-02-16T15:30:00.001-05:00

Now that Romney's out, I am exploring my options. I may be moving to Canada, folks. We'll wait and see. In the meantime, I think I've found a pretty good candidate of my own: Mr. David McCullough, the renowned historian and author. I had the opportunity last week to perform at a fundraising function at the New York Historical Society in Manhattan, where he was the speaker. He is such a cool guy! Hearing him speak about our country's history and founders made me feel so proud to be an American, as cliche as that sounds. He spoke of the desperate need to educate young people in the foundations of our country. He is promoting an organization called The Constitutional Sources Project, where all of the Founding Fathers' letters and documents can be viewed, for free, online. This is actually a really great idea. Check it out if you're interested: http://www.consource.org/. Living in Philadelphia has lit a fire for me and Nate: we want our boys to appreciate and love our country and recognize the sacrifices for our freedom. What better place to live and relive American History, and how awesome would it be to be able to pull up any and every letter that Washington, Adams, or Jefferson wrote, right on our computer, for free? Pretty cool stuff.

Anyway, any McCullough fans out there will be interested to know that he and Tom Hanks co-produced a mini-series coming out, based on his John Adams book. Mr. McCullough said he's never been so excited about anything! We'll be tuning in for sure, and I think I may consider this true patriot a great write-in on my ballot come November...