I Scream You Scream

We took Ashlyn to get ice cream tonight. It was her reward for going without her binki last night. She had no idea why she was getting a special treat, but it made me feel better about the whole ordeal. I think we went more for my benefit than hers.

She actually did pretty well without her binki. She woke up once at 3:30. I was feeding Trent - I think he woke her - so Brian went in to comfort her. Ashlyn's bedroom is right next door to ours, and this is what I heard:

Ashlyn: (crying) I want my binki!
Brian: Shhh. It's okay.
Ashlyn: pwease.
Brian: It's gone.
Ashlyn: PWEASE!
Brian: I'm sorry baby, it's gone.
Ashlyn: PWEASE!!! (with desperation in her voice, followed by more crying)

It broke my heart! Especially since she was asking so nicely. We have been working on saying please rather than whining. She then asked for "mommy" again and again, and I went to her aid just as soon as I could. She calmed down as soon as I picked her up which made me feel great! That means I am more comforting to her than an inanimate object - woohoo! I rocked her back to sleep and she slept soundly the rest of the night.

So the whole experience was not as bad as I thought it would be, but it is not over yet. She has asked for her "binkers" a couple times today and I am sure she will cry again tonight. But we made it through the first 24 hours, so I think we will be able to handle the rest.

Ashlyn has also been asking two questions lately that make Brian and I crack up. First off, she is going through the 'why?' stage. But she has combined 'why' with 'how come' to make, "why come?". Of course no answer is good enough, so it's "why come?" over and over and over again. Secondly, certain bodily functions have become quite humorous to her. Whenever she toots she asks, (with a big smile on her face) "Ya hear that?"

SUCCESS!!

We did it. Ashlyn went to bed tonight without a binki. I have been dreading this moment. I felt so sad for her and was tempted to give in, but we stayed strong and successfully got her to fall asleep without her binkers. It might be a long night...

TAKE THAT!

What do you get when you put 13 kids under the age of six in the same house with semi-supervision? PURE CHAOS! I am not sure what we were thinking. Somebody was bound to get hurt. Or maybe those chubby cheeks were just too irresistible. Needless to say, Trent got in his first fight and he lost miserably. He has the bruises to show for it. It doesn't help that his opponent had quite an advantage - twice the body mass, the ability to walk, control of his arms and legs, and last but definitely not least, teeth. In case you are wondering, I am not talking about his sister. This picture was taken today, the day after the incident, and it looks much better than it did yesterday. But you can still clearly see where Trent's opponent latched on...





You better watch out Austin, it looks like Trent is holding a grudge and practicing some moves!

Stats

Trent had his two month appointment on Friday. Here are his stats:

• Weight - 12 lbs. 11 oz., 54%.
  
• Height - 23 inches, 31%
  
• Head size - 40.4 centimeters, 43%

I wanted to compare his stats to Ashlyn's at two months but I have not been able to find hers. However, I did find her three month stats and at three months she weighed 11 lbs. 6 oz. So that means Trent weighs 1 lb. 5 oz. more than Ashlyn did when she was a month older! It also means Trent has gained five pounds since he was born! I knew that he was a lot bigger than I remembered Ashlyn being. Trent also had to get 5 immunizations - four shots and one oral. The oral vaccine is a new thing and it was great, I wish they could give them all that way. The shots made him very upset and he was tired the rest of the day. Poor guy.

Here are some comparison photos:

Ashlyn at two months:

Trent at two months:

Trent has chubbier cheeks, but there are definite similarities. Clearly they are siblings.

Cabin Fever

I love living in Utah because I love the four seasons. This includes winter. Yes, I do love cold, snowy days. To a point that is. I do not like being cooped up at home. I love going places, doing things, seeing people. And I have really been wanting to get out the of the house lately. So I have made a new goal for myself. I know I said that I was not making any goals/resolutions this year, but this is a fun one. My goal is to get of the house and go visit somebody/do something at least once a week. This is not only good for me, but Ashlyn as well.

Last week, we went clear out to Magna to visit Aaron and Monica and their kids. It was a lot of fun. I used to see Aaron every day up until about six months ago and I miss that. I love my big brother and I love being around him, he is a great guy.

Yesterday, we went to the aquarium. We met Mindy and her two girls there as well as my friend Heather and her kids. Like Mindy, Heather has two adorable girls. She also has a little boy, Tate, who was born just two days before Trent. It was fun to see the two boys together. It further confirmed the fact that Trent is a big boy! It was hard to believe they are both two months old. I wish I had taken a picture of them together :( Oh well, here are some picture I did take...

The highlight at the aquarium was the touch pool with the sting rays. Unfortunately, Ashlyn's arms were just not long enough to reach any. I don't think she minded though, she was happy just splashing in the water.

It has been impossible lately to get Ashlyn to look at the camera. Madi however, was very cooperative and all smiles. It was a fun day and Ashlyn was quite distraught when it was time to leave. Of course, before you can exit you must pass the gift shop. I was a sucker and bought Ashlyn a plastic bath toy turtle which she named Gus.? I have no idea where that came from.

Two Months Young

Trent is two months old. Already! He is such a great kid. He is smiling a lot these days which is so much fun. He is making more noises. He moves his arms and legs like crazy when you talk to him. And, he is growing like a weed! I cannot believe how big he is getting. He has the best chubby cheeks and his legs are beginning to resemble the Michelin Man. His two month doctor appointment is on Friday and I am so anxious to find out all his stats. I am sure that he is at least 12 lbs.

My friend Sandy gave Trent these adorable shoes when he was born and I remember thinking how big they were. I was sure they would not fit him until he was at least 3 months old. And now I think he will outgrow them by the time he is 3 months. So sad! Here are a few more two month pics:

The BIG Three-O!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!

Brian turned 30 today! It has been a fun weekend o' celebrations. On Saturday we had the Smiley clan over for a pizza party, and last night we celebrated with a steak dinner at the Lifferths. I woke up extra early this morning (7:00 - I know it doesn't compare to Ruth's 5:30 routine, or Gretchen's 6:00 resolution, but it was a feat for me!) to make Brian breakfast and give him his presents. Ashlyn managed to get herself a spoonful of Ovaltine, hence the chocolate ring around her mouth.

I did not take Monica's scrapbook challenge because I have been busy making a book for Brian, "30 Messages From 30 Friends & Family on Your 30th Birthday". It was a really fun project and Brian was completely surprised. Thanks to everyone who contributed!

At the end of the book, I included a list of 30 reasons why I love Brian. In case you did not already know what a great guy I married, here's proof...

In no particular order:

1. He works hard, earning himself promotions and raises and allowing me to be a stay-at-home mom.

2. He is a University graduate—quite an accomplishment!

3. He takes pride in his yard, doing what he can to make it look nice and learning new things, like gardening.

4. He helps around the house. He does the dishes without me asking, and he is always asking, “What can I do to help?” or “What would you like me to do?”.

5. He tells me I am beautiful.

6. He drives an old dodge neon, which requires a screwdriver to shift and he does not complain.

7. He is an excellent father to Ashlyn and Trent. He gets excited when he sees Trent smile. He loves to play with Ashlyn and make her laugh. And he changes poopy diapers even though he swore he never would.

8. He serves in the church, even if he is called to the nursery.

9. He is generous with his time and knowledge—always helping others whenever possible and not expecting anything in return.

10. He is smart with money.

11. He is the best uncle. He loves to get down on the floor and play with the kids.

12. He married me in the temple—committing to an eternity.

13. He is funny!

14. He makes me banana pancakes.

15. He laughs at all my dumb jokes. He thinks I am witty.

16. He make me feel safe.

17. Family is important to him. I know our family is his #1 priority. He also loves and treats my family—even the extended—like his own.

18. He believes in me, even when I do not.

19. He is my best friend. We have fun together. I know I can trust him.

20. He writes me love notes.

21. He has a very soft, emotional side, even though he doesn’t usually show it.

22. He proposed to me twice!

23. He can laugh at his mistakes.

24. He always apologizes.

25. He keeps up on current events. I know I can always ask him about what is happening in the news.

26. He does not drive a motorcycle, even though he really wants one, because he knows it scares me.

27. Lucky for Cooper, he is a good dog owner.

28. He is fearless. He is always willing to try new things and he is brave enough to confront people.

29. He is a great fix-it man. He has saved us a lot of money because of his ability to fix just about anything.

30. He is not content to remain stagnant in life. He wants to progress, move forward and better his situation.

You are loved Brian. I hope you have a wonderful Birthday!

Book Club

I have organized a book club and I am really excited about it. My sister-in-law, Stacey began one years ago - five maybe. It was great having a new book to read each month without always having to pick it out myself. Plus, it was great getting together with a bunch of gals to discuss the book and have some good eats.

We usually had about six members, but those members changed quite a bit over the years. Finally, last May, I canceled the club. It seemed like people needed a break. Attendance had become very sporadic.

Now it is a new year and a new beginning. I am going to post the books we are reading and after our meetings I'll give a review. If you are ever in need of a book to read, you can read along with us. This month we are reading Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. Happy Reading!

GROW

Brian's sisters have inspired me to have a New Years word, instead of resolutions. This means I will not be making a bunch of goals I will not keep, or will only last for a couple months. I will instead focus on a single word and incorporate it into my daily life. I really like this idea. It seems more attainable. Even though my word will involve so many aspects of my life, one word is simpler to me than a half dozen resolutions.

My word is GROW:

1.	to increase by natural development, as any living organism or part by assimilation of nutriment; increase in size or substance.

I want to grow spiritually, mentally, emotionally,...but not physically. I would prefer shrinking in that area. I really want 2008 to be a year of growth for me. Believe me, there is plenty of room. I want to be a better me.

Blessing Day

Trent was blessed yesterday. It was a very nice blessing, Brian did a great job. I am very grateful for Brian, he is a wonderful father. Trent was sure handsome in his blessing outfit, which he received from Grandpa and Grandma Lifferth for Christmas.

We had a yummy brunch at my parents home afterward. Unfortunately, several family members and friends were sick and unable to attend. Thank you to those who came and supported us on this special day. And to those who were sick, I hope you are feeling better!

And A Happy New Year!

Not everyone enjoys New Years Eve, but I love it. I think it is a great way to end the holiday season. One last hooraw. One final party with the family. One last chance to pig out before all the healthy resolutions begin.

Mindy decided my parents needed a break from all the partying at their home, so she and Marty hosted the party this year. Theirs is the only house big enough for all of us besides my parents. It was a great party. Unfortunately, my dad stayed home. He caught the same 12 hour bug that Aaron and Ashlyn both had. After 38 New Years Eves, my mom rang in the New Year without a kiss from my dad.

We decided to have a Chinese New Year. I know the dates are off, but the food was great! We had sweet & sour pork, mongolian beef, lettuce wraps, wontons, ham-fried rice, and noodles. As always, we made way to much food and had a ton of leftovers, but it sure was delicious!

Last year I made a resolution to memorize all 50 states and be able to name them on a map. I did not even once look at a map during the entire year. Needless to say, I have not given much thought about resolutions for this year.

Ashlyn actually made it to midnight, barely. You can tell that she was pretty sleepy. She crashed on the couch shortly after the stroke of midnight...

but she held onto her streamer! Happy New Year!

Where To Begin?!?

I do not even know where to begin. It feels like such a daunting task. I feel like I could write a novel about all the events of the past couple weeks. I am going to try instead to make it as short and simple as possible. Here it goes...

On December 17th, we had our 2nd annual grandkid party. This is a night totally dedicated to the kids. We started out at Gardner Village were we took a ride with Mrs. Claus. We then went back to Grandma and Grandpa's house for some yummy homemade soup. Then Grandpa announced that Santa had made an early delivery...

Matching pajamas for all the grandkids! They all looked so cute together.

We ended the night by making gingerbread houses. I didn't take any pictures of the final product because well, quite frankly, it was pathetic! Oh well, the process was fun!

On the 21st, we enjoyed a quieter evening - our 2nd annual adults only party (with the exception of Maya and Trent). We love our children, but it is nice having a night without all their noise! We had a game night, which was great because we hardly ever get to play games anymore. We used to play games all the time before we all started having kids.

Dad and Mom also surprised us all with Indian blankets, hehe - it's an inside joke.

And once again, the food was delicious. Thanks Dad and Mom! You guys are the best!!

The next night, the 22nd, we had Brian's parents and sisters over for dinner. It was a very nice evening. I was feeling pretty stress free by this point because all my Christmas projects were 98% complete!

On Christmas Eve, I finished wrapping my presents in the morning - yeehaw, no staying up until 4:00 am! I then went with my parents to visit Grandma Lifferth. It was a nice way to spend the afternoon. The evening was split between the Smileys and the Lifferths. We first went to the Smileys.

Brian's mom had invited their extended family over, both sides. This meant that our usual group of eight (Brian's parents, sisters, Brian, myself, and our two kids) almost doubled in size to 15! This is crazily small compared to a Lifferth family gathering.

I think Brian has a total of eight cousins. Needless to say, he was a little blown away when he married into my very large family with 80+ cousins. This is his cousin Jason and his then finance Marci. Then, because they were married on the 28th - Congrats! Even though it was a small group, it was a lot of fun. We do not see his extended family very often and it is always fun when we get together with them.

We then went to my parents for our annual Christmas Eve fondue dinner. This is my absolute favorite dinner of the entire year! After dinner, we had the kids act out the nativity for the first time. It went remarkable well, better than any of us expected.

Great minds think alike and dress alike! Somehow, all us girls coordinated our sweaters. Don't we look festive:)

Christmas day was busy, but so much fun! Brian and I woke up around 8:00, read some scriptures and a talk my dad once gave on choosing to believe in Christ. At 8:30, we decided to get moving and wake up Ashlyn.

We got Ashlyn a big stuffed bear, which I thought she would love, but it scared her! She warmed up to it after about 20 minutes and now she absolutely loves it.

Trent and his Christmas loot. What do you get a one month old? Not much. Better luck next year buddy!

After we opened our gifts, we had our traditional Christmas breakfast - breakfast casserole and bubble loaf. Another one of my favorite meals. Then we were off to the Smileys.

Of coarse Ashlyn and Trent were spoiled by Grandpa, Grandma, aunt Stephanie and aunt Stacey. I am going to have the best dressed kids in town! After Smileys, it was back to my parents again. Brian gets tired of all the back and forth, but I am grateful that we are fortunate enough to live so close to both our families.

The highlight at my parents was a playroom that they put together for the grandkids. They have been working on it for some time and did a very good job of keeping it a secret. The kids loved it! It has a kitchen, table & chairs, doll house, igloo, and tons of toys! It is a very cute, very fun room.

This picture was taken on Christmas day. I think that Trent has caught up in size with Maya, he might even out weigh her.

On the 26th, my moms brother, Rob, and his son, Robbie, came up from Vegas to visit. Robbie just came home in November from serving a mission in Australia. It was great seeing them both again and hearing about his mission.

The only bad part of the holiday season was Ashlyn catching a 12 hour bug. I think she got it from her uncle Aaron. He was unfortunately sick on Christmas Eve. Poor girl could not keep anything down. She began throwing up around 7:00 pm on the 26th and threw up at least every hour until 5:00 am the next day. It was a long night!

I do not usually say this, but I am so glad the holidays are over! I am really looking forward to some slow and quiet January days.