Birthday

So, I had a birthday yesterday. One of those scary ones. But it turned out to be a really nice day.
First, we planned to go to the SLC children's museum with some family but then there was snow in the canyon that morning. So Hubby called from work to say we wern't going and did I want him to come home. Duh. So he first went to the store to buy the supplies for my CAKE. It's pretty awesome and he makes it for me every year (except last as I wouldn't have enjoyed it mid-pregnancy).  Ok, it's really awesome and he deserves best huband award for the hours it takes to create. Don't worry, it takes me at least as long to eat it, out of respect and out of pure enjoyment, stretching it out over a few weeks to enjoy it amazingness.
We watched Cars2, then went to Indian Oven for dinner (another annual, minus last year, favorite). Baby J had spinach soup and loved the complementary rice crackers and was a good sport about being kept up pas bedtime. Back home to put the Bubs to bed and open presents. My parents game me too many and great gifts, as usual. And, my sister with mad-gift-giving skills guessed right on my fav Bath &Body Works flavor.

Hmmm. Once a year is just right for a birthday.

Golf Digest: Life Lessons #1

I know this is going to sound weird. A few years ago I was waiting for something and really bored. So, I picked up a Golf Digest from the coffee table and started reading. I learned some great life lessons from its pages. I think you can find truth and direction anywhere-if it's a true principle in golf, then it's a true principle in other areas as well. I do not pretend to understand these articles at all, as I do not play golf, but I do love what they teach. This has been particularly interesting as I study more about birth and look back at Joshua's birth. The excerpts I am sharing today are from the January 2011 issue, by Gio Valliante & Guy Yocom.
My additions are in ( ), emphasis added.

How to be a great performer (mother, employee, etc)

1. See the positive in a setback. ...he asked himself, "what can I learn from this?" Matt thought he played too conservatively on Sunday, so he resolved to have a more aggressive mind-set. 3 weeks later he shot a final-round 69 and won. The positives are always there if you make the effort to find them.
2. Allow success to find you. ...Matt had nine top tens on the year, but no wins. The tendency here is to press. But we agreed that rather to make any changes he just needed to keep getting in position (be where you need to be, consistently trying to do the right things). Players often get impatient and make a ... change or or a shift in strategy, when all they need is perseverance. That's what Matt had and he got his win this week.
3. Don't think golf (life) owes you. ...he went on to lose...Camilo's reaction was interesting: "I made a lot of putts in the past week. Even great putters miss putts sometimes." (Do I let my failures define me, or who I am the majority of the time define me?) A week later he flew home to his home country of Columbia...he returned with a bounce in his step and a free stroke with the putter. He...won by five. The lesson: We are entitled to nothing in golf. Playing the game, with appreciation and in good health-those are gifts. That realization may have a major effect on you.
4. The game seneds messages. In 2009 Stuart finished 137th on the money list. His swing was good; more than anything, he seemed unmotivated. I thought the game was telling him he needed to rediscover his passion (you are where you are because you loved something about it, what was it? Can you find it again to find success?) We talked about it, and he responded, (do I get defensive when people close to me tell me they are seeing something I'm not?) working very hard...he wound up...to win at the Greenbrier. How did he celebrate (do I rest after an accomplishment or keep doing what made the difference?)? By playing 5 of the next 6 weeks. The game speaks to us and tells us why we're underpreforming. Listen up.
5. Play with a fearless edge. The Sunday before the Barclays in 2009, it looked like Heath was going to miss out on the FedEx Cup. When he just squeaked in, he felt like it was all a bonus and decided to play without fear, mind you, he didn't play reckless, but gone was the feeling of restraint. That freedom produced great results and a one-shot win over Tiger Woods. ( Similar to #4, feel the blessing of being where I am and the opportunity to try, let go of the feeling to achieve/preform for others)
6. Talk sense into bad shots. Disappointment over poor shots is something Heath has struggled with, He used to interpret anything less than prefect shot as a failure (does this ring true to anybody else?) When this happened, he played with no psychological freedom. (what would psychological freedom feel like? Learning from past mistakes so that you can let go of them and focus on present/future efforts?) Solution: After poor shots, Heath recently began saying aloud,"I accept the outcome of that shot." It doesn't mean he liked the shot, only that he was coming to terms with it.At the McGladrey Classic last fall, Heath was a master as letting go. He relaxed and won.
7. Score isn't the only measure (what's my scoreboard? Other people happy? Can't be, I can't control that. Perfect behavior for my kiddo? Ditto). When Arjun won the 2010 Wyndham Championship, he was ranked 450th in the world. 2 weeks before, he drove all night from West Virginia to New York to try to qualify for the Turning Stone event. Playing on an hour's sleep, he made it into the playoff but lost...his text reads, "I'm learning. And getting better, dude." (like in the movie "The Robinson's", you learn more from failure than you do from success) Point being, it often takes time for improvement to show up (on the scoreboard). You need patience (no kidding. Wouldn't it be great if we could learn that? Instead of judging ourselves/other on outcome, we used effort instead?). Arjun had it.
8. Be a peaceful warrior. When Justin tied for 4th in the '98 British Open at 17, his potential seemed limitless (ever been stuck with others having a great 1st impression of you, or you of others?) But the ensuing years were a mix of slumps and near misses (only to realize that it was a great day followed by a bad week or vice-versa). Justin and I agreed on a plan: He would do everything quietly (this sounds to me like no high-highs and therefore no low-lows, a seemingly boring, but calm/nice place to be) and in a calm spirit, never losing his inner peace because of something on or off the course. (In striving for inner peace, why give it up in an instant for others or an unrealistic standard you've set for yourself?) He was a peaceful warrior that week and shot 66 the last day for his first tour win-one of two in 2010. like Justin, strive for peace, and leave behind all that self-impsed pressure. (Did these guys know they were writing a motivation speech? What example can you share of a "peaceful warrior"?)
9. Rhythm will ease pressure (definitely a principle to be applied to labor). A few weeks after the Memorial, Justin staggered home...and missed out on another win. The next day I handed him a "Sunday Guide for Closing," (interesting it was to be done on a Sunday, the day we renew and start again fresh) which he was to take into next week. the plan had 3 elements: 1-Find the rhythm in your pre-shot routine (what preparation do I take before doing something I'm good at?); 2-Soften your grip pressure (am I holding onto something too tightly that actually isn't as important?); 3-think release to the target on full swings and release the blade with the putter (another obvious one fore birth, we so want to be in control, especially when there are other people involved, but the beauty and strength of labor is knowing when to release and let go for our body, for other's help and to God). These keys counter stress (oh yeeeeaahhh), which causes muscles to tighten (pain) and stops the flow of your swing (labor progress). Justin turned it around and won again that week, looking relaxed all the way. (Seriously, theses guys could be awesome labor coaches! Sorry, back to life lessons)
10. Make a mental  to-do list. D.J. got off to a so-so start on the Nationwide Tour in 2010. He thought his mindset needed work, so he went back to an old checklist we'd made. It contained keys like going "all in" (WAC anyone?) on every shot and showing up on the first tee with good rhythm rather than trying to find it ("Start your day off right" comes to mind, remembering to get up with the alarm, eat a good breakfast and start with prayer/scripture study to begin right rather that just 'hoping' through the day). D.J. won...after dusting off that list. Of course, every golfer's list will vary, but the point is to make one. It'll give you a frame of reference and clarity of purpose (what do I need to get done today? Love God, love my husband, my baby, my neighbor, and laundry/dinner/blogging will just be a bonus).

I hope you can find your own interpretations in this and feel free to share them.

Laboring @ Home

I had a friend recently ask me for tips on laboring at home. Here's the short list I came up with for her. Of course, many of these could be adapted to a birth-center or hospital setting.

• Keep a box of snacks/drinks nearby.
• Practice all the positions/comfort measures before hand. Make a list of them all and keep it close by to look at.
• Write down/record affirmations for yourself/coach to repeat while laboring.
• Try the shower/bathtub.
• Pick a point (or mental image) to focus on while breathing through waves.
• waterproof pad/shower curtain under (old) sheets on bed
• waterproof pads under soft towels anywhere you like to lay down.
• lots of pillows.
• Practice squatting-excellent pushing position. As far down as you can go-heels flat.
• Do 'tail wag' every morning and night, and whenever you thing about it (same for kegels). Tail wag is to get on all fours and tip your pelvis up and down-focus on arched back and flex back up like a cat back and forth up to 100x.
• I liked apple juice best. Prob watered down so not too sweet.
• Use a bendy straw to keep drinking to keep energy up.
• Go to sleep during labor whenever possible. And DON"T apologize for it.
• When not sleepy, stay active, up and own stairs, walk, sweep kitchen, etc.
• Keep a garbage can close for puking/pooping.
• Don't scrunch up your face/hands/shoulders/muscles during waves/pain/fear. Focus energy in letting the waves do their work.
• Breath in and out while counting 1-1, 1 2 -1 2, etc as far up as you can go. I got to ten and that made the waves shorter/bearable.
• I borrowed my chiropractor's maternity massage pillow so I could rest on my stomach occasionally.
• Cheap/DI towels
• blankets if you get cold.
• wet washcloths kept warm in a crockpot/rice cooker. Use for compress on perinium during pushing.
• I labored in a short, short-sleeve, zippered robe I found at the DI. could lift for checks and unzip to nurse. felt very covered and comfortable.
• PH paper to test amniotic fluid leaking
• Babysitter for other children.
• Park your car facing out, full of gas, and ready to go with carseat installed and hosp bag in the trunk.
• keep one bag box handy inside for things you use everyday/during labor that you would also like at the hosp. Coach's job to grab that on way out of door. Or can come back later for it.

As for as my mental things:

• Prepare mentally/physically for anything you can think of. ambulance/unwanted guests/recussitaion/hemorrhaging etc. that way you will not get scared or be disappointed if any of those things happen.
• I had heard of painless birth but didn't expect that. But doing the breathing/comfort measures/affirmations etc I can say that my labor wasn't painful. Just pressure and intensity. I do believe I was very blessed. There was a little pain in my back since baby was posterior when I got on a birth stool to push but went away when I got off.

For Daddy:

• practice comfort measures to see how mom likes them
• discuss/memorize affirmations
• encourage eating/drinking
• practice areas to massage for comfort

The waterproof pads are these: http://www.amazon.com/Disposable-Blue-Underpad-Chux-23x36/dp/B000FA05Y6 We found them in the pharmacy area at Walmart. You can use them for stuff after so just get a pack or two. Our midwife had us pour red-tinted water in it so we could see what a hemorrhage looked like.
Snacks-
I unfortunately was dumb (and in la-la-labor land) and didn't eat or drink anything. I just know that milk and bread (toast is ok) are not good because they can ball up in your tummy and thus are easy to throw up. Coconut water is supposed to be great for labor, as well as smoothies and I know you like those.

Quoth me...three

If Zion could take on flesh, it would be Christ.
~Ethan

4 of us worked on the Quad. McKonkie, Ashton, Packer, and one other... oh, me.
~Pres Thomas S Monson

The family will reflect your personal turmoil if you are not seeking the Lord.

The beauty of the temple is in the sincerity of its worshipers.

The laughter of the world is just loneliness trying to reassure itself.
Broken hearts and broken homes are the results of broken covenants.
When I gave my will to the Father, I promised that I would obey. And I am free. Free of the world. And you can be free too.
~Neil A Maxwell

Boys, remember who you are and what you can become.
~Pres David O McKay


Because I have been given much
Because of thy life's mission Lord, I too must serve.
I'll leave the comfort of my home to tech thy word.
I'll see the sheep who've gone astray, and those who've never known the way.
I'll show that love by word and deed,
thus shall my thanks be thanks indeed.
~Denver Colorado Mission

I am saints for heaven and that makes a difference! I will go, I will do, the prophet told me to go and build a boat. I did it! I did it! The Lord commanded Nephi, fight the man. I did it! I did it!
~Andrew, while wearing a cheerio box on his head

He worketh in me to do according to His will.
Always put your trust in God, as it is not His work that is frustrated.
~Martin Harris

You can lose the cherry in the Shirley Temple by choosing not to repent and keep the commandments.
The worst thing you can do for your character is to feel the spirit and do nothing about it.
Unselfishness brings a ward closer together and closer to the Savior.
~Mark Tingey

Lord, use the fire in my heart to melt the lead in my feet.

We are not obedient because we are blind. We are obedient because we can see.
~M Russel Ballard

Don't run in the church, let the church run in you. Then you can walk in righteousness, and walk the strait and narrow.
~President Larsen

Remember that what binds us is stronger that what keeps us apart.

Scout Skit

No, sorry, this isn;t one of those silly ones. It's a good one that I found for den meeting.

Caring for others is how we show compassion.

Listen carefully to these was to do a lttle more for others everyday.

Do more than care. Help.

Do more that be fair. Be kind.

Do more than forgive. Forget.

Do more than think. Do.

Do more than plan. Work.

Do more than be friendly. Be a friend.

More quotes

More from my collection. ps-I cannot verify the validity of any of these quotes.


I feel a great burden being a member of the church, and yet, I'd rather feel it than not.
~Justin Cracroft

You can't go back to where you haven't been, you can't teach that which you don't know.

There is no danger of developing eyestrain from looking at the bright side of things.

There is a Book of Revelations in everyone's life. Everyday is a fresh start with no mistakes.
~Anne of Avonlea

If you want to give light to others, you first have to glow yourselves.
~Pres. Thomas S Monson

It's only a sacrifice if you give more than you get.
~Pres. Gordon B, Hinkley

Missionary work is the lifeblood of the Kingdom. When it stops flowing, the kingdom stops growing.
~Pres. Spencer W Kimball

We are not fighting for ourselves, we are fighting for the Savior.
~Elder Rex D Pinegar

When obedience ceases to be an irritant and becomes a quest, in that moment God with endow us with power.
~Pres. Ezra T Benson

Be loyal to the royal within you.
~ Pres. Harold B Lee

What we insistently desire, over time, is what we will eventually become and what we will eventually receive in Eternity.
~Elder Neil A Maxwell

When satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future.
~Matt Huff

The field is white, step up to the plate.
~Matt Nelson

Sisters, you and your Christ-like attributes are what will get these investigators interested.
~Elder Kikuchi

When members and missionaries work together, baptisms can rise to whatever level the members want.
~Elder M Russel Ballard

Are you the kind of missionary your mother thinks you are?

Everything that is precious to me is mine be covenant.
~Kenton Allred

He's dying to know us. No, He died to know us. Love the Lord with all thy hear,t might, mind, and soul. When we do, the Lord is eager to bless us.
~Jason Ortiz

My heart rejoices until I can hardly remain earthbound.
If I could change anything about my life, I wish that I would pray more.
~Pres. Rhodes

Stretch seconds, magnify  moments.

That person is not truly converted until he sees the power of God resting upon the leaders if the church, until it goes into his hears like fire.
~ Pres. Harold B Lee

There are few people who are either too stupid or too dishonest that you can't learn something from everyone around you.

Always use the scriptures! My mom told me to never give a talk with at least one scripture.

Top Nine

I had a friend ask me for my list of must-haves for baby so I thought I'd share it here.

1.  Place to sleep. We love our bassinet that we had in our room for the first month, then moved to the closet. If you're not nursing and getting up to make a bottle anyway, I would put the baby in her own room after the first week or so. J is just starting to get too big for his bassinet at 13 lbs./3mos. We'll get him into the crib next month.
  2.  Burp rags. A couple dozen, a stack for each room. (Ethan-It seems like we got a lot, but unless you pin them to yourself they often get left behind when you move and then you don't have one when you need it, unless you have a lot and spread them around)
  3. Wipes- We got some soft washcloths and use them with warm water (E-it's less abrasive/startling, especially at first when we'd use a cold wipe he could cry, but he was fine with a warm cloth). Also, their first few bowel movements are pretty sticky, so it's easier to clean up with the washcloth than wipes.
  4.  baby shampoo/soap. Johnson's foaming soap pump (or one from Bath & Body Works) uses like 1 T. of soap and the rest with water so it lasts forever and is gentler on baby's skin. I also use this with my washcloth wipes. The pump makes it very convenient.
  5.  waterproof pads-we do most of our changing/feeding on our bed so one around to put over the sheet and one permanently under
  6.  couple changes of sheets for baby's bed- same as above. can layer pad/sheet/pad/sheet for quick night changes if bed gets wet.
  7.  Boppy-even if you're bottle-feeding. i use mine with this<http://www.pillowspillows.com/images/bed%20rest.jpg> kind of pillow. It really helps my back from getting sore while feeding/rocking/holding baby. I also have one Boppy upstairs for my bed and one downstairs on the couch. That way I can feed easily wherever I am.
  8.  swaddling blankets
  9.  Baby carrier - Wraps are perfect for tiny babies because they're very protective/supportive and hold the baby close to your body (e.g. Moby or Sleepywrap. E- or Megan can make you one) E-now that he's a little bigger I prefer the Snugli because it's more open and easier to get on/off (and it was cheap). I like having the carriers because if I need to be doing stuff, I can, but still have him close and take care of him. E-I actually wore him to work in the Snugli for a couple hours when Meg had something and he slept the whole time, even though I was moving and talking to people.

We've had a crazy week around here...

Crazy because J is learning and doing so much. Good thing I finally got around to starting his Baby Blog/Book so that I can record all of it.
*Please ignore the mommy-voice and our punchy laughter. But it really is that funny, even when you are well rested.

I'm learning . . .

• to sleep on my back if I want a morning nap.

• to sleep when baby sleeps.

• to sit up straight when holding/cuddling/nursing/rocking/wearing babe so I don't get a sore back. 

• to enjoy afternoon/evening walks with E and baby.

• that being a momma brings up a whole slew of  issues that you thought were long since dead and grown out of.

• that the Little Man is in charge.

• that in order to produce nutrient-rich milk I need to eat and drink nourishing things.

• to check the diaper when he's fussy.

• that I. was. made. for. this. Bring it on.

• to respect and look forward to doctor visits (even the painful ones).

• how kind and willing to help people are during this time. 
• to plan something to do everyday. (Today it's to adapt a cookie-bar recipe to a drop-cookie recipe.)
• to let go of checking blogs, facebook, and email everyday.
• to hand baby/laundry/dinner over to E when I need a break.
• that while my labor was not perfect, it was beautiful, blessed, and an experience to build on. (interesting article on this subject here)
• how to tell my birth story without glazing over unpleasantness, freaking people out, nor bragging about doing most of my laboring at home without medication.
• the realities of cloth diapering and what really works for us.
• that  while I'm quite old to be a first time Mormon mommy, there are plenty of advantages in Joshua coming at this time for us.

What I'm still at odds with...

• Doing everything one-handed.
• Fixing myself lunch.
• Letting others hold baby.
• Getting a shower and myself ready daily.
• How to get cute pics worthy of his cuteness.
• Encouraging E to go to work rather than squander the whole day at home with us.

Any suggestions?

Ah, Hong Kong.

 So, I used to collect quotes. I ran across these in an old folder and wanted to preserve them here before tossing them. What beautiful memories. God be praised for His mercy and plan in sending me to China.

If you are ever called upon to chasten a person, never chasten beyond the balm you have within you to bind up. ~Brigham young

Yang Kekurangan dijadikan Cukup melalui Korban Tebusan Yesus Kristus.
Translation: That which is found lacking is made enough through the Atonement of Jesus Christ

View all things through the lenses of Eternity. ~James E. Faust

Our standards are not socially negotiable. ~Jeffery R. Holland

If you looked so much like the world, how would they find you? ~Neal A. Maxwell

To live and move among men, requires the heart to break . . . or harden. ~Maclane Strong

Living an inspirational life is more important than saying inspirational things ~Maclane Strong (oh the irony...)

Thick skin, soft heart. ~Maclane Strong

When the Lord commands, do it. ~Joseph Smith

If you love the Truth, you will remember it. ~Brigham Young

The devil thinks Mormonism died in Joseph. But the Gospel is in God, who never changes. ~Kyle Johnson

We will never be alone so long as we know how to pray. ~Joseph B. Wirthlin

When you save a girl, you save generations. ~Gordon B. Hinkley

They will love you , not because of who you are, but because of what you bring them. ~President Ong

I hope that things continue to remind you of the presence of your God and your calling to serve Him and His Son. Stay humble, and remember Whose time this is. ~Jake Weirman

I hope that you feel like you're a successful missionary, because you are.~Summer Hoogendorn

Footprints are not made by the leader that said, 'Go thither', but by the Leader that said, 'Come Follow Me'.


Even if the Gospel changes our lives, what good is it if it doesn't change us? ~Jessica Waters

It is the enemy who can truly teach us to practice the virtues of compassion and tolerance. ~Dalai Lama

Fear not. Consider the chickens. ~Kit Burton

The man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones. ~Chinese Proverb

They won’t remember what you said or did, but how you made them feel. ~Margaret Gnadt

The church in Aberdeen is far from the fish so it doesn’t smell bad. In fact, it’s a very nice church. ~Laura Bailey

Where is a Chinese person? ~Elder Matsamuri

I don’t try my best, I DO my best. ~Sister Ladesma

I was never given the chance to change until I met the missionaries and they taught me the Gospel of Jesus Christ. ~A Chinese convert

I have a remedy so you don’t have to move…we’ll drag down the sun! ~Sister Bautista

Repenting: When you stop seeking some things, and start seeking others. ~Hugh Nibley

Are you satisfied with your wound? He he, you’re laughing. He he. ~Chinese Doctor

By being fearless we see people’s lives change. ~Elder Hudson

What good is Eternity if a person can’t use a ½ hour? ~Elder Erickson

Consecration means that I'll give you my best hammer for your best loaf of bread. ~Maclane Strong

 Actually, the spirit calls me Ted. ~President Ong

I love the Chinese people because under their minds, they have a heart that is soft. ~Elder Julian

I’m glad my companion listened more to the spirit than to the conversation. ~Jake Wierman

Other than the Gospel is gossip. ~Sis Arandia

To share the Gospel in difficult circumstances means to treasure it even more. ~Richard G. Scott

So, is this sweater missionary appropriate?~Pres. Ong

Everything Christ does is an invitation. ~Elder Segars

Your faith must make up for their lack of faith. ~Tyler Whitlock

Your best becomes better everyday. ~Elder Strong

It is better to ruffle a few feathers than to deprive a friend of the knowledge and eternal life of the Gospel. ~Joseph Smith

Our responsibility is to help people have a spiritual experience. ~Satish Tewari

God only uses tools that are organized. ~Elder Hudson

My honor is intact because I have been striving for His. ~Elder Barson

Here is my Facebook Mission album if you'd like to see.

Inside activities to do with Babies & Toddlers

I doubt very much that this blog will turn into a "mommy blog", but as fate would have it, we seem to be headed in that direction, despite any protest from me...

From American Baby magazine (I would link you to the original article, but it's not on the website, just the physical magazine)
When it's too cold to go out and play . . .
Top Chef
Strap baby into the high chair and narrate while you work around the kitchen and host a cooking show for them. Offer baby a few sniffs from the spice rack. Let her watch you peel and core an apple, then boil it down for a snack. If they're old enough, have them stir up some pancake batter. Children are much more likely to try food they've helped prepare.

Garage Band
Scatter around shakers, wooden spoons, pots & pans etc and make up your own tunes to rock out.

Book Club
Make sure the books are age-appropriate.  Under six months, baby'll just like being held and hearing your voice. 6-12 baby will like to grab and mouth books so make sure they're tough cardboard or fabric. Over 12 months baby will start to understand what you're saying help flip the pages.

High-Chair Art
Finger paint with edible paint, yogurt and pudding are good ideas. You may need to demonstrate first.

Splish Splash
Wash away that yogurt and pudding with some water play. Toss in a few few toys that need a scrub and you'll have one less thing to do later.

Mirror, Mirror
Carry baby from room to room to see themselves in different mirrors, pointing out their facial features and making faces at each other. During tummy time place an unbreakable toy mirror under baby to encourage her to push up and watch himself.

Mini Maid
When you're cleaning up, giving your walker a small broom, vacuum or spray bottle filled with water to help "clean up" alongside you.

Maze Craze
Set up a fort with pillows, blankets and a tent in your living room to let baby explore. When babe gets tired, you can cuddle up together under the blankets and watch a movie or just enjoy being together.

Fluff & Fold
Let your tot "help" you sort your whites and darks. Then "fold" clothes together, separating baby's from Mom & Dad's clothes.

Play Ball
One your baby can sit up, sit across from him and toss a ball between you. Add a few more as he starts to understand the exchange.

Favorite Pics from Florida

(They don't let you stop to take pictures near this sign, so I had to take it through the front window of the van...)

Here's a quick visual review of our trip to Orlando:

Day 1 - Epcot

Day 2 - Recover from Epcot (i.e. Lie in bed all day = no pictures)

Day 3 - Seaworld

Day 4 - Animal Kingdom

Day 5 - Kennedy Space Center

Day 6 - Magic Kingdom

Week of Christmas

Let's not mention the number of days tardy this post is. Let's just be glad that it's here now, yes?
For our Christmasy activities that last little while we've been baking, reading the Ensign, and watching the 1st Presidency's Christmas Devotional. I have definitely enjoyed December more this year, and been able to spend so much more time feeling the spirit than normal. I'm grateful that we've done this despite our constant lack of constancy.

I've been thinking a lot about the Shepherds talked about in Luke 2 and other places. The Forgotten Carols' "The Shepherd: You were not there in Bethlehem". I have a gorgeous picture sitting in my living room with a Shepherd in it, and I got to spend some time in the temple this weekend, thinking, resting, and reading in the scriptures about sheep, Shepherd, and the promises of God.

Hebrews 13:20
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
John 10:14
I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
Luke 2:18
And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
Ezekiel 34:9
Therefore, O ye shepherds, hear the word of the Lord;
1 Peter 5:4
And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
1 Nephi 21:9
That thou mayest say to the prisoners: Go forth; to them that sit in darkness: Show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and their pastures shall be in all high places.
Ezekiel 34:14
I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel.

The thought was very first spurred on, however, when we watched The church's DVD "Joy to the World". The shepherds in that movie are quite a rough group. So, why did the angels come to them, I wondered. Because they were humble is the standard answer. But, to me, our station in life seems to have little do with the amount of pride in our hearts. So, these shepherds must have had something to offer the story that no one else could. Or the story had something to offer them, that nothing else could.
My current theory is that the shepherds had to be there to welcome the newborn king, as Christ welcomes us. (Wish I knew more about sheep herding, I'm sure there's some great stuff I'm missing.)  And they had to be there to learn more about their roles as shepherds. Just as they watched over the Babe that night, they must give the same care for each of the sheep in their charge. They also could learn something about their God, that he is the Shepherd of our souls, a personal, caring God that the Jews had not known for sometime. That God would watch over them in the same way that a shepherd cares for his sheep. The Good Shepherd literally 'got His hands dirty' in caring for his broken and sick sheep. He stood between them and the wolves, and died for it.
So, what did the shepherds, or what can we take away from the experience of meeting the Christ child? How will we be different? Changed? More committed? More pure, more holy, more like Him.
And what about Mary? How did she change from her experience? What will I learn from the discomfort of pregnancy and delivery that will make me more like Him? What can I learn about motherhood from the Mother of Jesus?  How can I prepare my sons and daughters for service in the kingdom, to achieve their individual missions in this life?
I love this new song, sharing the thoughts of Mary as she greets her newborn son. I imagine how it will be for me. I don't know this little one yet, but I do know the Savior. And my gratitude to Him swells as I picture this moment for myself next April.
(Pause playlist below before starting video)

Francesca Battistelli
You're Here

Hold on now, got to take a deep breath.

I don't know what to say when I look in your eyes.

You made the world before I was born,
And here I am holding you in my arms tonight.

Noel, Noel
Jesus our Emmanuel.

You're here.
I'm holding you so near.
I'm staring into the face of my Savior,
King and Creator.
You could of left us on our own.
But you're here.

I don't know how long I'm going to have you for,
But I'll be watching when you change the world.
Look at your hands, they're still so small.
Someday you're going to stretch them out and save us all.

Noel, Noel
God with us, Emmanuel.

You're here.
I'm holding you so near.
I'm staring into the face of my Savior,
King and Creator.
You could of left us on your own.
But you're here.

Someday I'm going to look back on this,
The night that God became my baby boy.
Someday you're going to go home again,
But you'll leave your spirit,
And flood the world with joy.

You'll be here.
I'm holding you so near.
I'm staring into the face of my Savior,
King and Creator.
You could of left me on my own.
But your here.

You're here.
Hallelujah, you're here.
Hallelujah, you're here.

Free download of this song from Amazon.

Days 3,4, 5, 6, 7 of Christmas

I had a pretty bad sick couple of days, so I'm 5 days late instead of 2. On a high note, I started feeling the little babe yesterday. I've been worried, since all the guide books say I should've been feeling the baby for about 4 weeks now. Today it's so often I feel like I'm in the Magic Carpet at Lagoon. I wanted it, and now I get it.

Friday night I made the Latkes as promised. But I used part sweet potato and part russet, with no carrots as mine were frozen. Nothing against the recipe, but I though they were pretty boring.

Saturday morning I had the blessing of going to my parents' ward's Christmas breakfast. Part of the program was a local storyteller preform the Christmas story from Joseph's perspective. I blubbered. What is it about pregnancy? It was beautiful. If I find out he's doing it again, I'll invite you all. It was beautiful and sweet, and just what I needed. I caught a glimpse of what a miracle my own pregnancy is, and what real people Mary & Joesph were.

Sunday we ate dinner at my parents and missed the Christmas devotional, but I read a good part of the December Ensign in the morning. It is fabulous. It's like the church knew that we're trying to improve our holiday season, and amply provided. Highly recommended.

Monday evening, we caught the last night of the Live Nativity put on by one of the local farms in our town. I gushed, again. So what if the players were in jeans and sneakers? If Mary was bleach-blond with glitter nails? That they laughed and chatted. The scene, with the hay, the animals, and the baby-doll Jesus really touched me. We pet a donkey, sheep, and zebra-striped mule. I hope that you'll make time next year if you're in the area.

We have 2 treats as compesation for missing so many days.

Baby ELM 20 weeks gestational age

It's a little blurry, but it's baby's face in profile with a thumb's up sign pointing to babe's forehead.

Wow. 

Can you believe that??? I hardly can, but it is getting a touch more real.

Treat #2 is VERY one of my very favorite songs ever. And it seems to fit with the two awesome experiences I had. 

#18 on the playlist "Breath of Heaven" sung by Amy Grant. It's really touching, and honestly, too much for this emotional pregnant girl to take much of.

Breath of Heaven

I have traveled
Many moonless night
Cold and Weary
With a babe inside
And I wonder
What I've done
Holy Father
You have come
Chosen me now
To carry your son

I am waiting
in a silent prayer
I am frightened
by the load I bear
In a world as cold as stone
Must I walk this path alone
Be with me now
Be with me now

Breath of Heaven
Hold me together
Be forever near me
Breath of Heaven

Breath of Heaven
Lighten my darkness
Pour over me, your holiness
For your holy Breath of Heaven
Do you wonder
As you watch my face
If a wiser one, should of had my place
But I offer-all I am
For the mercy-of your plan
Help me be strong
Help me be
Help me

Painting is, of course, copyright Joseph Brickey, but as I own a print that I purchased directly from the artist, I feel ok about posting it.

How could I ask for more?

I am so excited to share this song with you. It's got so many warm-fuzzies in it and I think it's message is quite powerful for this time of year.
Do you find it odd that Thanksgiving falls before Christmas, and not after?
Seems so ironic to me that while we're trying to be grateful we get bombarded by the black friday/Christmas ads and all we can think about is what we n-e-e-d on the very day that  we're supposed to look around, surrounded by family and the blessings of the Gospel, and realize that we really have more than we need, and even want.

How could I ask for more?

#14 on the playlist
There's nothing like the warmth of a summer afternoon
Waking to the sunlight, and being cradled by the moon
Catching fireflies at night
Building castles in the sand
Kissing Mama's face goodnight
Holding Daddy's hand
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

Running barefoot through the grass,
A little hide and go seek
Being so in love, that you can hardly eat
Dancing in the dark, when there's no one else around
Being bundled 'neath the covers, watching snow fall to the ground
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

So many things I thought would bring me happiness
Some dreams that are realities today
Such an irony the things that mean the most to me
Are the memories that I've made along the way

So if there's anything I've learned,
From this journey I am on,
Simple truths will keep you going
Simple love will keep you strong
Cause there are questions without answers
Flames that never die
Heartaches we go through are often blessings in disguise
So thank you Lord, oh thank you Lord
How could I ask for more.

Christmas is Coming!!!

I'm currently pining for the snow of Cache Valley winter's past. 

I found this sweet Christmas song and wanted to share it.

 Its Christmas time and soon I know I’ll see
Presents underneath the Christmas tree
Mistletoe and stockings in their place
Extra cookie out for Santa in case
But tonight I’m setting up the manger underneath the tree
And counting all the pieces as a question comes to me

Was he a boy like me?
Did he bounce on daddy’s knee?
Did he play games to make his mother smile?
As I place the final piece inside the manger scene
I wonder if he was a boy like me

Throw tinsel on it and some candy canes 
Turn on the hi-fi Julie Andrew sings
Jingle bells I wish some snow would fall
Say our thanks wish merry Christmas to all
But as I stare out the window at the Christmas star tonight
There’s a question I must ask you and I hope that you don’t mind

I knocked the wise man over when I put the baby in
I set him up so he could see the child once again
I fixed the broken shepherd so he could stand up tall
Looking in his eyes I think I see just what he saw

He saw a boy like me
He bounced him on his knee
They played some games that made his mother smile
As you place the final piece inside your manger scene
They wondered at this boy 
They gazed upon this gift
In a boy like me

Expecting one of our own . . .

Surprise!

The baby God has planned for me and E 
isn't coming from an agency, but from inside of me!

OK, since I've never done this before, and too much of anything is making me sick these days, this will be quick and concise.

1. Are we excited?
1. Absolutely! Ecstatic! If you don't know, we had our hopes placed in adoption and this is such a huge blessing. The weight of it is indescribable.
2. How do I feel?
1. Sick. This thing a size of a lime can make me lose it anytime, anyplace???? Explain this to me.
3. Was this planned?
1. Ha! Is there much in our lives that is? It's more like the unplanned, unprepared, and unbelievable.
4. When am I due?
1. In the spring. "I always wanted to be a June bride, and have a baby right off, in the spring maybe"
2. I don't know. Doc keeps changing her mind. As of today I am 13 weeks 5 days.
5. What are my thoughts about delivery?
1. If I fit within the parameters of low-risk, my ideal birth would be at home, well, a home with a huge jetted tub with just Hubby, midwife, and doula.
2. However, Ethan is justifiably a little nervous about complications and such, so our first will definitely be in a hospital. Natural, but we'll have to see about a tub there.
6. Is it a Boy or Girl?
1. ????
7. 7. How did you find out you were pregnant?
1. I've been going to a chiropractor and while discussing my aches and pains she says, "could you be pregnant?" I say no. Not possible. Well, possible, but no. So I got a hosp test and prepped myself for the all-to-common "negative" over the phone. She said "positive". What? "Positive". Oh. Ok.
8. Did you want to find out the sex?
1. Not sure.  We probably won't for the fun of it, also the frugality to not buy much since we won't know colors etc. Plus I like green W-A-Y over pink or blue.
   
9. Relief?
1. Sleeping, but more specifically having crazy/intensely detailed dreams. If it's illogical and I'm skinny, I know I can relax and not worry about losing my lunch.
2. 1/2 Gatorade/Powerade, 1/2 ice water. First liquid that I can consume at all. And I can do 2 glasses a meal without feeling queasy or losing it later.
10. Favorite parts?
1. My Grandma's reaction, she was so excited for us.
2. Having so many other friends due around my time. I thought I'd never be in "the club" or be able to do "playdates" with them.
3. Having a secret this big.
4. My Grandma made us an exceptionally-adorable (and gender-neutral) baby blanket, just like the ones I had as a baby (and still occasionally sleep with).
5. Getting to have snow/winter for the greater part of this journey. I LOVE Oct-May in Cache Valley!!!!
11. Total weight gain/loss?
• - 20 from pre-conception.
12. Best moment this week?
• Watching the babe kick and squirm through the 12-week (ish) ultra-sound. Little bug's got E's nervous energy!

Please submit questions that you still have in the comments and I'll try to add them.

God Answers Prayers

Megan and I were sorting through old mission papers and we found this great poem she wrote (she doesn't know I'm posting it...yet).

God Answers Prayers
by Megan

Have you ever talked to God above?
Telling that you need a friend to love.
Pray in Jesus' name believing that God answers prayers.

Have you told Him all your cares and woes?
Every tiny little fear He Knows, you can know he's always there,
And He will answer prayers.

You can whisper in the crowd to him.
You can cry when you're alone to him.
You don't have to pray out loud to him,
He knows your thoughts.

On a lonely mountain peak, He's there.
In a meadow by the stream, He's there.
Anywhere on earth you go, He's been there from the star.

Find the answers in his words true.
You'll be strong because he walks with you.
You will know He's always there for you,
And that He answers prayers.

Summer in review: Pictures from my phone

I just got all the pictures off my phone and realized they make kind of a quick review of our recent activities (not that the pictures are actually of our recent activities...), so here they are:

Our friends Dave and Jill dropped in to visit us on a Sunday mornings few weeks ago and would have attended church with us if we had church at a reasonable time...2:30 is just so _______ (fill in favorite adjective here.) They have 2 (now 3) of the cutest kids and we love to play with them.
We went to the baptism of my niece Sydney last Saturday. It was great to see her making that important step in her life. And you say, how does that go with the picture....well, she's sitting next to me and I'm wearing the glasses from her happy meal...(this was actually taken on our trip to Tahoe over the 4th of July, but it made me think of her...).

For the 24th we went down to Willard bay with my family to play on the beach and my sister's wave runners. Since I didn't have a picture of that...I'm substituting this one of my camera shy nephew (and beautiful wife) while we were hanging out with them in Ogden.
I still go to work 5 days a week...this tree is outside my office.
And last but not least...My great, wonderful, amazing, increible bella esposa (Yes, that's you Megan...I don't have any other 'esposa') took me to the Real Salt Lake game last week. It was awesome!!! We won 3-0, the last goal was a sweet chip shot over the goalie in stoppage time, and there was a nice sunset to round out the evening.
Sometime around the middle of the second half we decided (for me it was probably more like about 30 seconds after we sat down) we really liked being there and that we should go more often (read: every game). Thanks honey for an awesome summer!!!!

Home again...

Wow. We have been out of town every week for the last 7 weeks I think. We are pretty exhausted, but grateful for the fun we've had and the invitations sent our way. This week will be no different. There's to a be a baptism down south, then we're heading to a REAL Salt Lake soccer game! I think Ethan's perfect weekend combo: blessings of the Gospel and soccer. Come to think of it, he seems to have gotten his weekends more often than not this summer.
This morning I got to make some of these for our stake YW's camp this weekend.

I've been wanting to make some dolls, but haven't had a reason nor a pattern for it. It was a lot of fun and easy. If we get the chance to adopt a child  from another race, I'm very passionate about them have "multicultural-friendly" toys, so I'll probably be making some more of these for myself.
I'm very, very glad that I could help with this stake project.  I'd love to "mother" other people's children as I'm told to do as one without children. But, I find that other mothers don't want me to. I rarely get asked to babysit or hold other people's babies. So I'm trying to enjoy my time more in the Cub Scouts.
While sewing these up, I listened to this book.

It is excellent. So many Gospel truths and sound advice. Many, many things I am kicking myself over for not being a better wife. But I don't feel sad or mad at myself, as much as I understand better the marriage relationship and can see how my actions effect my husband and how I can do better. I highly recommended it to any married woman.

Last week I read a book given to me by my mother, and strongly encouraged by my husband to read. I resisted, mostly because I didn't know what it was about, assuming it was about changing my attitude, I was not interested. After all, the book is titled "Hotel on the corner of Bitter and Sweet". When I opened it up, I asked E why he didn't tell me what it was about. He insisted that he did, but I would definitely have remembered if I know it was about Asian-American families during WWII-one of my very favorite topics. Anyway, I must continually relearn that when my mother or my husband recommended books to me, I should at least try them. I offer that suggestion to you as well if you have the pleasure of knowing my mother or husband. This book is so beautifully written. I wept when I closed the cover after reading it non-stop (but I am an overly-hormonal girl). It is a sweet (and bitter) story of love, forgiveness, standing up against prejudice, and family dynamics.

I'll get to the report on Lake Tahoe soon.