At the park with my munchkins. James came home from school dressed up like Rudolph- too cute.

I was just staring at the ceiling pondering on the fact that I simply don’t think I have enough noteworthy things to write a Christmas newsletter this year. Granted, we have our sweet, happy moments. There’s our family wrestling matches and who wouldn’t want to read about my all-time-fastest diaper changing speed or our children’s aptitude at sliding head-first on the futon mattress down the stairs. Maybe I could make a New Year’s resolution to accomplish enough feats in parenting and personal development that writing a newsletter next December will be an easy task… While I ponder more about that, here are a couple of pictures of Jonathan. He was Student of the Month for December. Obviously, one high-achieving 2nd grader we’ve got here. He’s the type that likes to read encyclopedias for fun and just sometimes gets the answer to math problems faster than me. Michael recently asked him for the Calvin and Hobbes book and Jonathan asked “what for”? Michael responded, “To be entertained”. Jonathan grabbed the book One Million Things and said, “If you want to be entertained you should read this!” Last week, he had a science test that I helped him study for. We acted out weathering, erosion and deposition. I pretended to be rain, snow and ice and break him into pieces at the top of the stairs (weathering), carried him down the stairs which we pretended was a mountain (erosion) and deposited him on the couch. I then told him to go to bed and he replied that he couldn’t since he had been deposited. Like I said, he’s a clever kid. I should mention that I can fairly easily carry all 70 plus pounds of him. My weightlifting must be paying off. How’s that for bragging?

What could bring more happiness than a sweet little girl in the bathtub? Having a sweet little girl in the bathtub with her big brother standing outside the tub with a white board full of addition and subtraction problems and dry-erase markers. James decided he would teach Gracie math while she took a bath. It was quite adorable because she didn't know any of the answers. He was starting to lose patience with her not knowing the answer to 7+3=. "But Mom, I told her it starts with a "t" and I even whispered the answer to her!"

James: "Mom, why do you have gum?"

Me: "Because my breath is bad."

James: "My breath is bad too."

Me: "and I want your dad to kiss me"

James and Jonathan: "ugh"

Michael: "Kissing your wife is great."

Jonathan: covering his ears "I don't want to think about it."

I get books from the library that I know Jonathan will enjoy but he refuses to read them, until I make him listen to me read the first chapter, and then he can't put them down.

James loves it when I put him to bed. I sing him three songs, scratch his back and his head and leave. The other night he asked if I could scratch his legs and feet too. Sorry James, we'll just have to stick with songs, back and head scratches.

Gracie absolutely loves the park. If we are driving by any park she will plead to stop and play. She asks to go every single day. I took her and Ryan to the park yesterday and they were in heaven. She had a smile on her face the entire time. My dad's cousin offered to babysit the kids. I had her watch them today while I went to a meeting with Jonathan’s school speech therapist to discuss his "R" sound. Ryan and Gracie had a great time and Gracie told her all about what a good swimmer she is, which is a little funny since she can't swim yet.

We made treats for neighbors the other day. I stayed home with Ryan while Michael delivered them with the older kids. It was so sweet to watch the boys on their bikes followed by Gracie on her tricycle making their way down the street covered in Christmas lights to deliver goodies. Gracie promised to ride fast.

Married 12/4/04 Same day, 9 years later! I made orange rolls and pulled out the 7 Up from the pantry to celebrate much to the delight of four little munchkins. James gave us a note: Mom and Dad Sorhee I dont hav inythin to giv you. James. He's got it all wrong. He and his sibling's hugs, kisses, cut-outs. notes, songs and drawings are gifts beyond price. Ryan's kisses are more like licks but they count too.

Last night we told the story about the birth of the Savior for Family Home Evening. We sang Christmas songs and I told them what we know from when Christ was born. James raised his hand and said that the people at the hotels should have let Mary have their room or maybe they could have shared. Michael asked him if that is what he would have done and he said yes. Good job James.

Jonathan’s teacher sent him home with a huge cut-out of a big guy, with white paper instead of clothes, a beard and a beer belly. It’s supposed to be Santa and as a family we are supposed to dress him up in a disguise. Those elementary school teachers love Santa I tell you. Even though it isn't due for two weeks, he’s already dressed him up as a mailman with a hat and it is quite adorable if I say so myself.

Gracie at her opthamologist appointment. Back to recent setting up Christmas.

A few more. Gracie playing dress-up. Ryan's smile. James giving me a hug after appyling sunscreen. Maybe I need to give that kid sunscreen more often.

A few more phone pictures. I like this picture of me and Ryan because it captures the sweet moments I love that come with having little ones. The other three are of the kiddos this last summer with their swim teacher.

These are just a few pictures I found on my phone. Michael and me back when we went Go-Karting. Gracie as happy as can be to have her cousin, Chloe, next to her -girl power. Ryan being held by his siblings is obviously not an easy task.

Setting up for Christmas- Sorry this is huge. I'm still figuring out the most recent blogger settings.

Note given to me from James: Mom Yoo r the grads Mom I evr had frum James to mom

Note by James on door: Do not cum in. Seekit game Jonathan and James

Note by Jonathan on door: Jonathan and James room. Enter at your own risk. Rope will fall.

Having been a missionary, I was really touched by this story....okay, it touched me as in need to find the tissue box cause I'm crying, touched me. I could totally picture last minute, being ready to swim to a nearby roof and a few of the sisters being like, "Wait, I can't swim!" How sweet that their companions pulled them along. One more reason for swim lessons. "You might need it to save your companion on your mission."

Gracie: “Mom, can I eat all of my Halloween candy?”

Me: “You mean everything in your backpack?”

Gracie: “Yes”

Me: “No, you can have one piece.”

Gracie: “OK, thanks Mom.”

I let the kids watch The Emperor's New Groove the other day. James came into the other room each time there was a bad word to tell me. So you know, it says hate, get lost and stinky, so be warned.

We were skyping with Grandpa and Grandma D. Gracie was showing them some of the exercises she does with Michael, stretching her arms in the air like a ballerina. Grandma D. was laughing at her endearing little exercises. She said, “No, Grandma this is not silly!” as in, don’t laugh Grandma, this is serious stuff.

Ryan is eighteen months old today. I had his checkup this morning. We thought he was going to be our average-sized boy but it appears he is following the footsteps of his older brothers in that regard.

Head Circumference: 93.08%ile

Weight: 89.82%ile

Height: 95.25%ile

Dr.: “Is your home childproof?”

Me: “Yes, well mostly. He still manages to climb on the counters and is into everything” as I notice the scratches on his tummy and legs and wonder where in the world they came from. Speaking of into everything, is there something she could do to put a stop to his recent emptying every drawer in the bathroom habit? It would be nice to be able to walk around the bathroom at night after having forgotten to lock the bedroom door without it being a landmine of q-tips, lotion bottles and makeup brushes.

Dr.: “Does he always ride in a backward facing car seat?”

Me: “No. He is in a forward facing one. I just don’t think we could handle that.”

Dr.: “Is Gracie in preschool or Day Care?”

Me: “No.” thinking that taking into account the cost and driving time, she doesn’t drive me crazy enough for it to be worth the break and is sweet enough that I’d probably miss her.

Dr.: “Does he have other siblings?”

Me: “Yes, two older brothers ages seven and five. They’re at school.”

Dr.: “Make sure you have your older boys wash their hands when they get home from school. Older children and adults who aren’t sick can still get your child sick.”

Me: “Ok” thinking that while I’m at it maybe I should stop having us all share communal smoothies and cups of water.

Dr.: “Does he still drink from a bottle?”

Me: “Yes” when I can find it.

I think Gracie was in more pain than Ryan watching him get his immunizations. There is a little pond outside our pediatrician’s office. Gracie and Ryan had fun watching the ducks and turtles. Gracie excitedly told me they were saying hello when they quacked. She was also very concerned that Ryan wanted to jump in and swim with the ducks.

We had to pick up medicine at Costco for Ryan‘s ear infection and I quickly bought some groceries. I noticed the expiration date on the milk is December 4th, which will be the nine year anniversary of the day Michael and I were married. I felt a huge rush of gratitude. Here’s to us Sweetheart, high fives and cheers! In January it will be ten years since we first met. Ups, downs, moves, babies, crying, cuddles, and covenants. Runny noses, sunsets, new life, death, sleepless nights, sleeping in, snowstorms and sun tans. We’ve been blessed in countless ways. So, here’s to love, marriage, family and good things to come.

I’m starting to accept the fact that Ryan may never get a full head of hair. I think he’s the type that will eventually sport a goatee so maybe that will even things out…. He can get away with it, handsome little fellow that he is.

Halloween was great. The kids all looked adorable in outfits from the dress-up bin and managed to fill their pillowcases with too much candy.

Early this week, James stacked pillows on Michael and me and lay on top of us. He decided it was so comfortable that he could lay there for “infinity”. He requested that we get him whenever we cuddle because he enjoys it so much.

I called my grandpa today to see how he's doing and he fell asleep while listening to me. Michael has fallen asleep while skyping with me. I guess I just have that effect on the important people in my life. So, basically, if you can't sleep, you know who to call.

 

 

Fairy

 

 

Yes, Jonathan's cute too. He says, "I love you too Mom." when I put him to bed. I know, I know, it's the second year he's worn his jujitsu uniform for Halloween. Maybe I'll get my game on next year.

 

 

Superman, keep your shirt down. We don't want all the girls swooning over that cute belly of yours.

 

Gracie's holding a fairy wand that came in a fairy book Grandma D. gave her last year. It makes a sparkling noise. It also serves the dual purpose of fairy phone for those young at heart.

Howdy Partner

 

Gracie had an eye appointment last week in San Diego. I knew Ryan wouldn’t be able to handle the waiting so it was just Gracie and me. She loved the one on one attention. She danced along the sidewalks holding my hand and giving me smiles as sweet as they come. She followed all the directions from the staff and pediatric ophthalmologist even with them shining bright lights in her eyes. She refers to the drops they used to dilate her eyes as “rain drops”.

She was Daddy’s helper on Saturday planting flowers in the yard. She would rest every couple of minutes in her little purple chair to get some more “energy”. She would show me her arms and point to them saying she has lots of energy in them. I asked Michael if the flowers would grow ok in the shade and she replied while lounging in her little chair, “Don’t worry Mom; I grow just fine in the shade.”

As of Tuesday or Wednesday of last week, I no longer take responsibility for James’ haircut. I noticed him in the bathroom with scissors snipping the front of his hair. Fortunately, I found him on the second or third snip. I asked in what I thought was a pretty calm voice, “James are you cutting your hair?” He replied by bursting into tears and running into the other room to hide.

We went to our niece Elle’s baptism in Yuma, AZ. I drove on the way there. James needed a potty break so I took an exit that almost took us to Mexico. Somehow I managed to turn around and find another potty break in the middle of nowhere. We realized too late that Ryan’s blanket that Grandma Neyens had given him for his first birthday fell out of the van at the potty break exit. It nicely stayed put in the dirt all day until we picked it up on the drive home. I suppose some lizards scampered on it but after a nice wash it seems to be as good as new. Elle’s baptismal service was lovely. The boys sang with their cousins and enjoyed a lunch-in and swimming afterward. I think my brother is super cool performing eye surgeries everyday but we found that his real skill lies in throwing kids into swimming pools. Jonathan somehow got the hang of it after a couple of belly flops where he thought he may have broken his stomach. We went to a park and the kids played on an old train. We ended the day with frozen yogurt with Grandpa and Grandma D, followed by the drive home. Driving in a car with older kids is ok but driving with babies can be miserable. I have heard it said that the number one reason people don’t have as many kids as people did thirty years ago is because of car seat laws. After that drive home, I agree. Really, four kids and no car seat laws, sheesh, they had it easy! In saying my goodbyes to my parents after the day in Yuma, I was reminded of how good it felt to have them around, even if for just a little while.

The boys and I sang in the Primary Program on Sunday. Grandpa and Grandma Neyens came to see the boys and sat behind Gracie who watched nicely by herself since Michael had left with Ryan. They said she kept waving at me trying to get my attention. I was just called to be a primary teacher the week prior. When I was called I was told they have a difficult time getting people that will fulfill callings that work with children. That seems to be a sad societal trend. My little sister is Primary President with a newborn and two other little ones in a needy ward in Philadelphia with 12:00 church. Compared with that, teaching CTR 4/5 is nothing. The first week went well.

I had the kids help me take a meal to a family with a new baby yesterday. Unfortunately, James dropped his bag and broke the jar of salsa which leaked all over their walk-way and no one was home. I used baby wipes to do my best to clean it up, only to find out that the family had recently moved and we were at the wrong house! I’m sure I was quite the sight with my baby wipes and the four kids holding bags and hanging on me. Thank goodness it rained last night.

Michael played baseball and carved a fabulous jack-o-lantern with the kids this evening. He’s great.

Here’s a hilarious little clip my dad shared with me the other day. Whenever I feel like a bad mom I remind myself that I feed our family flour that we grind ourselves, brown rice, rarely eat out, and go overboard on fruits and vegetables. So sharing this is kind of poking fun at myself. Enjoy!

I got back from working out this morning and was making a protein shake. My kids can’t stand the taste so I’ve had this protein shake powder for a long time now. I turned on some music, did the dishes, got Gracie and Ryan some food and danced around the kitchen to the music. Gracie and Ryan find my dancing very entertaining. The song, Walks like Rihanna, was playing. Grace joined me rocking out. The words to the chorus go, “She can’t sing. She can’t dance, but who cares, she walks like Rihanna”. Gracie sang, “She can’t sing. She can’t dance, but who cares, she wants a banana.” I thought her words were appropriate for my little monkeys.

One Parent-Teacher Conference down, one to go. James’ teacher said he is top of the class though there are a couple of kids who are getting close. I didn’t think he was all that advanced compared with where Jonathan was in kindergarten and a part of me wanted to say, “You think he’s smart, you should meet my other son.” I didn’t though because it would display how shallow I can be and that would just be asking to get humbled. My friend Sarah recommended the book Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons when Jonathan was almost four and I’ve used it with both boys. It was exactly what I needed at the time with Jonathan and has helped me build confidence as a mother.

Grandpa and Grandma D. kindly invited us to meet up with them at the beach on their vacation. After school, homework and naps, we managed to pack the clan in the van and meet up yesterday evening. The kids loved the beach and playground. The sun was shining but it wasn’t too hot followed by a lovely sunset. Grandpa and Grandma Neyens joined up with us for dinner at an outdoor restaurant by the pier called The Tin Fish. I figure parents can’t ask for much more than having four grandparents together to give four tired-out kids extra attention.

James is Student of the Week at school. We filled out an All About Me poster. His favorite colors are blue and camouflage. His favorite food is strawberries, pancakes and whipped cream. His favorite thing to do is play with his dad. His favorite place to go is Pump It Up. When he grows up he wants to be, “Hmm, tough to say, a doctor or a teacher”. If he could have one wish it would be that Grandpa and Grandma come tomorrow.

I was waiting to tuck Gracie in for her nap while she went potty. She was singing little songs she made up. After a while I knocked and asked if she was ready. She said, “Just six more minutes Mom!” and continued singing her little songs.

I went to Costco and Food 4 Less this morning with Gracie and Ryan. As I was bagging the groceries with one hand and holding Ryan on my hip with the other, he grabbed another ladies cart on the handle with both hands. I couldn’t seem to pull him off so I just let him hang from her cart for a couple seconds. She was very impressed with his strong grip. Maybe he’ll be a gymnast.

We went to Indio Friday evening when Michael got done with work and got home Sunday. It was a nice little weekend get-away. We met up with my parents who are on their way to my niece, Elle’s baptism in AZ. My brother Joseph, his wife Nicole and their four children met up with us as well. The highlights for the kids were playing with cousins, time with Grandpa and Grandma D, and swimming in the lazy river. Thanks Uncle Joseph for letting James hang out with/on you most of the time. I was lucky enough to have the two sweet, quiet, 3 year old girls who just sat on our raft perfectly still and content to go around and around and around. More highlights were an impressive, slightly scary tram up a mountain and eating out (woohoo). I’m pretty sure the highlight of the trip for Grandma D. was when the kids performed primary songs. Oh the things we make them do. While in the car, I let the kids watch the movie, Spirit. Jonathan had me skip a scene because he was concerned that it may be a little too sad for Gracie and Ryan. What a thoughtful brother.

Once again, I know these posts deserve pictures, we’re just getting everything organized with back-up and it is taking a while. I send my apologies to my sisters who have requested pictures. Just wait a few weeks and you will be wishing for no picture posts again.

Michael to the boys yesterday: "If anyone tells you that their dad can beat up your dad, you tell them that your mom can beat up their dad."

I called my mom let her know kids are free in October at the Wild Animal Park in case she and my dad want to go. She said, “I can’t really hear you very well.” I realized James was jumping up and down on my tummy, Gracie was playing with my hair and Ryan was sitting on my head. I replied, “Its fine Mom. I’ll just talk to you later.”

Other than watching Man of Steel in the theaters a few months ago (which I really enjoyed by the way), Michael and I just wait for movies to come out on DVD. We recently watched The Dark Knight Rises (I know, a little late) and both enjoyed it. My problems with it were limited to two. One, a totally unnecessary and suggestive two minute scene that seems to be the norm in most movies now. Two, I have no problem with Anne Hathaway being Cat Woman but the movie producing people could have encouraged her to spend some time in the weight room before being Bat Woman. Man or woman, I have high expectations of my superheroes.

Yesterday I drove James and his friend home from school and we caught up with Jonathan on the sidewalk. Jonathan got a big grin on his face, ran ahead and beat us home. It reminded me of our last place in Mira Mesa where the boys insisted on us dropping them off early on the way home from church so they could race the last few blocks home every Sunday.

I told Jonathan I’ll be so sad when he grows up and moves out, and that we will have to find a place to live where he goes to college. He said it would be okay and that he’d buy a house next door to us. Mike warned the kids that if we can we’ll just follow them around wherever they live and hang out with them all the time. That sounded good to me. I’ve already decided we’ll get bikes with baby seats and take their kids out so they can go on dates and take naps.

James: “Mom, the greatest person in our family just woke up and I got him out of his bed. Can you guess who it is?”

Me: “Ryan?”

James: “You’re right!”

General Conference was wonderful; it was everything I hoped for and more. I needed it. Lately, I’ve had no desire to attend Sunday church meetings. No as in nil, nada, nuffin. I could blame it on 1:00 church which is during at least two children’s naps but that wouldn’t be the entire truth. I’ve simply needed to be reminded of the simple, sweet message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I’m so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who once again poured out his Spirit in abundance and power.

While we were watching one of the talks the boys were playing behind the couch. The speaker referred to Peter, James and John. I heard a little “athan” after John from Jonathan and James saying, “Hey, they know us!”

It was also great to just relax with no commitments. The kids made cookies and all four of them had a blast hiding in the pantry together and laughing. I love it when they all play well together. We watched family movies and I realized how skinny Ryan is compared with James and Jonathan at his age.

Me: "We're going to play at a resort in Indio. Won't that be fun?" James; "Indio? That sounds like the Boomdiada song Grandpa D. sings."

Ryan wears some hand-me-down Superman PJs now. James tells us how much he loves having a superhero in the family and pushes “Superman” around in a white laundry basket only occasionally dumping him out now and then.

Here’s my little personal history segment for the month. If I were to list talents I had as a child, I’d write that I was artistic. I could draw well. I was a good storyteller. I enjoyed singing with my mom and composing little songs. From what my parents tell me, I was also coordinated in gymnastics and dance class. I’ve looked at our kids to see if they have any inclination toward the same things but haven’t really noticed any yet. Granted, the boys haven’t taken dance or gymnastics classes and haven’t had three sisters to make up bedtime stories for. I suppose the realization that I wasn’t the best at any of these and the fact that I outgrew being a dancer or gymnast very early on has kept me from developing them but there is a little part of me that still feels these things are tiny part of who I am. Jonathan’s personality and talents are completely different. If I didn’t know better, I’d say he excels at everything that I was weak at and is weak at everything I excelled at. He quickly grasps math concepts and spelling and has an innate interest in science and the way things work. He feels like he struggles with art and asked to take art lessons. Michael told him I’m good at art. The result is that I will be giving him weekly lessons. Wish us luck.

James colored and cut out hearts for Michael and me. I can't think of anything better to decorate a kitchen with.

Gracie loves to ride her tricycle. We went to the park. The big boys rode ahead on their bikes, I pushed Ryan in the stroller and Gracie insisted on riding her tricycle the entire way. She waved at everyone we saw and pointed out the colors of the flowers. We passed two guys we don’t know in a driveway. One was working on a car and one was dribbling a basketball. She waved at the guy dribbling the basketball with her sweet smile and said, “hi Daddy!” The guys found that quite funny. She later said something about a doggie and “woof, woof” so I’m not sure if she called him “daddy” just because he looked like her dad or if she meant to say, “Hi” to the dog and it just sounded like “daddy”. While riding in the cart at Costco she saw a motorcycle and told me how she really, really wants a “motortricycle”.

We went to the library and looked through the stacks of books yesterday. When we came across a book that we have at home or have checked out before she’d pull it out, smile, lift her arm in the air and triumphantly say, “I found a match!” When she rolls dice she says, “I win!” and lifts her arm in the Mario Brothers victory style. I think she gets it from her brothers.

We went to a pumpkin social gathering the other day. It was at a lady’s house that just had a new baby so I held the little fellow. Whereas Ryan got jealous and upset about me holding another baby, Gracie loved petting his little head and begged to hold him. I should clarify that I’m not expecting but later, when the sister missionaries came by she informed them that she’s getting a baby sister. I think it was a mix of holding the other baby and wishful thinking.

During General Conference Michael and I were laying on the floor of his office relaxing after he installed a new printer. We enjoy listening to Conference together and saying, “ummhuh” loudly every time the speaker says something we think the other one needs to hear. Gracie came in with her blanket and decided the best spot in the room was between the two of us, one foot on each, sucking her thumb. The boys listened as well. They found two empty boxes to decorate with markers, paper, crafty eyes, scissors and glue. Ryan managed to steal a few of their supplies and escape James’ tackles.

Last night after the kids were in bed, Michael and I crashed on the couch only to hear the boys jabbering away with each other and James singing “Yankee Doddle Dandy” for Jonathan.

James has a bad haircut. I take full responsibility. My only excuse is that his hair and Jonathan’s hair is so different. I was shocked to see that three boys in his kindergarten class have full Mohawks, one of whom has a Mohawk mullet. If any of those boys’ parents give me that “Your kids hair looks terrible” looks, I will look them in the eye. Plus, he can get away with bad haircuts, lucky kid.

Jonathan gives me unexpected hugs sometimes, usually at bedtime. I can’t get enough of them. He saw me at school the other day and ran up to the gate so excited to wave “hello”. He’s usually got at least one book to keep him busy. This morning I heard him reading to James about a creature that eats rocks. You can count on James to be impressed, “wow, neat” but I was surprised to hear Gracie’s little voice, “cool guys!”

Ryan is at the adorable, wiggle, cuddle stage. I love his sweet giggles and mischievous looks.

9-11

My brother-in-law thought of this poem today. Thank you Jared.

God of our fathers, known of old— Lord of our far-flung battle line— Beneath whose awful hand we hold Dominion over palm and pine— Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget!

The tumult and the shouting dies— The Captains and the Kings depart— Still stands Thine ancient sacrifice, An humble and a contrite heart. Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget!

Far-called our navies melt away— On dune and headland sinks the fire— Lo, all our pomp of yesterday Is one with Nineveh and Tyre! Judge of the Nations, spare us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget!

If, drunk with sight of power, we loose Wild tongues that have not Thee in awe— Such boastings as the Gentiles use, Or lesser breeds without the Law— Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget!

For heathen heart that puts her trust In reeking tube and iron shard— All valiant dust that builds on dust, And guarding calls not Thee to guard. For frantic boast and foolish word, Thy Mercy on Thy People, Lord!

Gracie is a getting good at counting other than when she is counting out the number of books she is suppose to choose before her nap or bedtime. Somehow two or three ends up being eight or so.

About two weeks ago after Jonathan lost his first tooth but prior to him losing the second was picture day at school. The boys woke up and I told them they could choose any shirt to wear but it had to have a collar and they had to let me comb their hair. They replied with a few whines and I explained, “In twenty years I want you to look at your pictures and think, ‘My mom really must have loved me.'” James proceeded to lay all his collared shirts on the ground and chose the only one with stains on it. I made him wear another one which had looked nice on Jonathan in a school picture a couple of years ago. I didn’t insist that the shorts match since I wanted to choose my battles and personally have never been on the front row of any picture in my life. While I combed James’ hair he asked me to please make it stick straight up. I replied, “No, it needs to stay nicely parted and combed down.” I explained that Jonathan’s hair ends up sticking up no matter what but his hair will stay combed so he is accountable for keeping it that way – a small lesson in accountability. I guess we’ll see if he took it to heart once we see his pictures. Speaking of accountability, is Jonathan really turning eight in February? He makes a lot of good choices but has his moments mind you. In the back of my head it has brought a little comfort to know he isn’t accountable to Heavenly Father for any poor choices yet. We better start the crash course on baptism and repentance.

It has been hot, hot, hot these last few weeks. Jonathan asked if there were any such thing as “global cooling as in the opposite of global warming” and we both laughed. Michael spends most of his awake life in San Diego so I don’t know if he knows exactly how hot “hot, hot, hot” means. I explained to Michael that starting the first seven years of our marriage in San Diego set a pretty high standard and maybe we should have started it off in Antarctica or on the plains of Nebraska with handcarts. I suppose the first four months of life in San Diego with newborn Jonathan who, if memory serves me right, cried almost non-stop (Michael would come home to us both in tears), and not knowing people or places served as just enough of a damper to paradise to start me out on a humbling note. It finally cooled down enough to take the kids to the park yesterday. There is a great park with a huge hill and playground pretty close by that is my favorite. Yesterday was one of Mike’s late nights so I took the kids out to avoid any breakdowns on either their end or mine. We filled up the van at Costco, went to the library to pick up books on hold, realized that Ryan wasn’t wearing a shirt (What kind of mother would put her shirtless son in a car seat beats me), went to the discount store next to the library, ran in and bought him a shirt, went back to the library, made sure the library got the Secrets of Droon paperback which had accrued fines since we couldn’t find it for ages though it mysteriously appeared when we found out the back of our couch has hidden Velcro compartments (please excuse the run-on sentences), managed to keep Ryan from setting foot on the ground as rows of books are much too appealing for little fingers, gave each child a book to read in the van and drove to the before mentioned park before it got dark. As I watched my little life’s purposes running down the hill in pure delight it brought a twinkle to my eye and pep to my step. I sat on a bench at the top of the hill to enjoy the moment. Ryan ran with the others although he fell over every now and then only to get back up and try again. I heard a loud bellowing next to me and noticed James standing on the bench prior to an ascent down the hill. He was pounding his chest like Tarzan with a smile of pure happiness. His media consumption has been basically limited to PBS Kids, Diego and Leap Frog so I have no idea where he learned this behavior from. Nurture or nature?

I like to sing, “Mess maker, mess maker, making a mess” to the tune of “Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match” from Fiddler on the Roof whenever Ryan is awake. If you’ve been around him at all in the last four months you understand why. It just occurred to me today that the kids think my words are the actual words to the song and someday they will probably sit in a play and hear the song and think, “Wait, did Mom have us fooled this whole time?”

Randomly the other day Gracie said, “No more doctors for me. No. No. No. Ouch.” She knows what’s good for her.

I cleaned out the pantry and noticed my unused tea (mentioned in a previous post). I had seen an idea on Pinterest suggesting that you put a tea bag in shoes that smell. Jonathan’s feet and shoes were smelly after our walk home from school today so I had him put the tea bags in his shoes. He came back and told me the tea bags smell worse than the shoes.

Homework comes before fun. This resulted in the following occurring all at once after school today:

Jonathan: reading a chapter about the headless horseman aloud so a parent could sign it off

James: reading aloud a story from his reading book about a big pig that hid by painting himself green and pretending he was a hill

Gracie: improvising a song and dancing

Ryan: making messes and randomly running after Gracie, wrapping his arms around her with a tackle to the ground

I heard Michael telling Jonathan about how J.K. Rowling has a son. I told him, “Don’t tell him that or he’ll be disappointed with the mom he’s got.” Jonathan was sweet and told me he’s happy I’m his mom and I’m special no matter what. Knowing how much he enjoys the Harry Potter books, and having fairly recently discreetly cleaned out his drawer of random papers with printed out spells and curses from Harry Potter along with his home-made paper wand, that meant a lot.

I asked Gracie how Heavenly Father made her so sweet while combing her hair into pigtails today. I’m learning how to comb her hair softly enough that she doesn’t put up a fuss. She shrugged her shoulders and said, “I don’t know.”

I got Ryan into the habit of sleeping in a pack-n-play in Michael’s office rather than with the two older boys since I didn’t want him waking them up. I decided to bite the bullet, let him cry- no ifs ands or buts about it, so Michael can reclaim his office. I put up black-out blinds to help with the process and got him to take a short nap today. I tried for a second nap but of course he cried and wouldn’t have it. I went into the room swaying back and forth while holding him wrapped in his blanket and singing softly to him. He figured it was either that or the bed so he kept nice and still. After ten minutes or so I thought, “Surely this child is sleeping soundly” and looked down to see him wide-eyed. As soon as he caught my eye, he gave me a huge smile as if to say, “Yeah right Mom, not gonna happen!”

Is it appropriate to walk around a grocery store with a baby sitting in the basket happily eating two nectarines he swiped off the shelf with juice running down his face? Fortunately, I had two things going for me. 1. The lady at the check-out was nice and 2. I spent long enough time in a foreign country, knocking on doors while soaking wet, and being rejected at just enough of those doors to give me added perspective.

Gracie loves singing “Let’s Go Fly a Kite”. Having a little songbird around comes in handy.

Jonathan lost his second front tooth tonight before dinner.

Family Home Evening started with the four kids sitting on the couch by Michael reverently in a line as adorable as they could be. At risk of sounding too much like Alexander and the Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, I will expound further on the evening. The kids just can’t seem to pass off the Sixth Article of Faith. I don’t know why. I tried to move onto the 7th but my suggestion was unanimously rejected. Mike purposefully didn’t sing the right tune on most of the songs because he thinks I’m a little extreme in having them memorize all of them. We were playing a game and the kids all ended up running around the room making noise while Michael decided to use the empty couch to take a nap. James was constantly begging for soda and all three youngest wanted to sit on my lap. It ended with a family wrestling match. I suppose it served the purpose of family bonding time, albeit a creative interpretation.

Having a house with stairs complicates things for babies and people who are older or injured. Bigger baby Ryan however, is an expert on them and can slide down them faster than we can walk down. He turns around, keeps one leg straight and uses the other leg for momentum as he slides down on his tummy. It is quite impressive to see him go.

Michael and I never told our kids about Santa, the Easter bunny or the Tooth Fairy yet they are quite familiar with all three. On a side note, somehow they have the song Frosty the Snowman memorized and particularly enjoy singing it during the hot summer months. Anyway, last night after the kids were all snug in bed and Mr. and Mrs. Tooth Fairy had finished going over the monthly budget (Mrs. Tooth Fairy has done well at staying in budget this month by the way). Mr. and Mrs. Tooth Fairy discussed how much money was appropriate to give a boy for his first lost tooth, taking into account future costs of dental and orthodonture visits of course (wink, wink). As we snuck in the boys’ room by the light of a phone, it was fun to watch our sleeping gentlemen, take a tooth and leave money. Jonathan gave Mr. and Mrs. Tooth Fairy a hug and “thank you” this morning. I hope Mr. and Mrs. Tooth Fairy can keep this up through wisdom teeth.

Jonathan lost his first baby tooth today! It was just in time for school pictures on Thursday. He is working on his r sounds and l sounds. If the other tooth falls out, the th sound may complicate things more. We will just have to hope he can avoid words like, "the ruler". He tried asking for a ruler the other day and couldn't say "ruler" for the life of him. "You know Mom, 12 inches, wooden stick".

Gracie is starting to have to defend her favorite spot on my lap, holding her blanket and sucking her thumb. Ryan is getting quite adept at making his way between her and me and the two end up using their bums trying to push the other off.

Jonathan's first comment after hearing the song version of the sixth Article of Faith we were practicing tonight was, "That sure has a lot of nouns".

Jonathan was suppose to take five things that could fit in a lunch-size bag that represent something important to him to school. It was sweet to see the things he gathered to take: a tank from Grandpa Neyens, a picture of him and James on Great Grandpa Donaldson's lap, a Pokemon card (ok- not so sweet. I'm not a fan), soccer and basketball participation trophies and a picture of Michael and me. Did I mention Jonathan's been holding my hand when I pick him up from school? He's never been the holding hands type so it's been a unexpected surprise that I can't get enough of.

James' hair was wet from sweat. I asked him if he was tired and he replied, "Just my hair is tired but it can rest while I do my reading lesson." When I ask him about school the only thing he says they do is color. If that's the case, he better be one good colorer by he end of the school year.

James got a leather cowboy outfit for his birthday from Grandpa and Grandma D. I was happy to see it would serve the duel purpose of a Halloween costume. The other day he was looking for a shape. He asked, "Howdy partner, where's a prism?"

Luau

Long ago I realized that throwing big events, managing other women and getting women out to the before mentioned events just wasn’t my thing so I decided I would never join the PTA. Leave that to the socially competent women with the easy kids and husbands who are home before 5:00. I’ll stay home managing my sons WWF matches while my husband sits in traffic on the 15, holding Gracie and her blanket and reminding her to not suck her thumb while stuffing Ryan full of bananas and feeling guilty for not having the courage to attempt to teach Jonathan piano. I justify that I can’t help out in the classroom because I have little kids at home but in reality I wonder if that is just an excuse to avoid any PTA type involvement. So my calling in church should be no surprise, Relief Society Activities Coordinator which is basically throwing events with and for women. Last night we had a luau. It consisted of an evening of lays, Hawaiian dancing, music, childcare, a game, dinner, dessert, a beautiful backyard, with a fancy pool and lights and around 50 women (most of them nice). Somehow we threw it off and I am now an expert luau lady. If you want a luau, you know who to call.

On Saturday Michael walked the kids to the park. While I was driving back from Food 4 Less I passed them. The boys looked so cute in their helmets and stopped to chat. About a block behind them, Michael appeared with Ryan in a stroller and Gracie on her tricycle. When I stopped to chat with them, Gracie said, “I’m on Daddy’s team.” I think Michael was flattered to claim her.

Today while driving Jonathan home from school I asked him about the other kids in his class. Since the local elementary school was full when we moved here he had to be bused to another one. Most of the kids in our ward go to charter schools so he is new to the school and doesn’t have friends. He said, “Um, I think the boy that sits by me, Gustavo is the second smartest kid in the class.” I replied with, “only second smartest? Who is the smartest?” He said, “I don’t mean to be uh, bragging but…. me.” He’s already looked at the back of the math book for the year and says all the problems are way too easy. He sounds kind of narcissistic but actually isn’t. He realizes where he fits in and doesn’t. I’m not worried about a lack of things to keep him humble in life. The challenge is getting him to still try and become good at the things that don’t come as easy for him and being ok with that. This whole parenting thing is quite the adventure.

James loves kindergarten and comes home exhausted. His favorite part appears to be getting stars in the form of paper or stickers. He says he "really, really" misses us while he’s gone.

A FedEx package for Michael just arrived from his work that looks suspiciously like an I-Pad. Since I signed for it and all his other work products when they are delivered, does that mean I get to use it on nights and weekends?

Last night Michael pointed out that Gracie could be totally content being held in the rocking chair, with her blanket, sucking her thumb for hours and I agree. That girl is cuddle bug material for sure. After putting her to bed last night she asked me to hold her in the rocking chair, “again and again and again.” It reminded me of when she was being watched at Grandpa and Grandma Neyens and wore Grandpa out asking to be pushed in the swing again and again and again. She made up a little song today that went like this, “I am small. I like my blanket. I like my pockets…”

There is nothing I dislike more than when my kids argue and fight. I like to think I don’t yell at my kids. When they are at each other all bets are off though. It drives me crazy. There is only one good thing I can think of from observing the times they have fought and that is that I am confident that Jonathan and James can both hold their own. On the other hand, there is nothing I like more than seeing them serve and help each other. Watching Jonathan read to Gracie or James make Gracie’s bed is heavenly. I know I’m supposed to be learning something deep here. Why can't I just get these lessons the first time?

I was standing at the top of the stairs and Gracie was at the bottom holding her blanket. When she noticed that I saw her she said, "There's my sweetheart!"

Gracie is attached to her blanket. She carries it all over the house with her and would take it everywhere else if we let her. On occasion, Ryan goes after her blanket. He knows once she sees it, she’ll go after it with vigor so he hangs on and wraps his legs around it in a tight grip so that she can’t pull it away. He is getting to be quite adept.

Gracie sometimes calls Ryan her “little guy”. She likes to sit in his bed and orders him to not pull her hair.

We made one last trip to the Splash Pad on Monday which was a nice way to end summer vacation. Jonathan and James started 2nd grade and Kindergarten today! We still don’t have our computer situation worked out yet so pictures will have to wait. I’m both happy and sad for school to be starting. I feel like despite the challenging aspects of having four little ones at home, I’ve grown closer to Jonathan by having him home. Here’s to a great school year!

Last night we had a little talk with the kids about bullies, looking both ways before crossing the street and anything we could think of to discuss prior to school starting. After the discussion, I quickly added a little tidbit about not eating any drugs. Gracie was laid out on the ground with her legs crossed pretending to read a book so I didn’t really think she was listening. Mike added to not sniff glue to my “Don’t use drugs”. While “reading” her book, Gracie replied, “Okay Dad” to the sniffing glue part. I guess she was listening after all.

As long as I’m cleaning the house, it’s nice to have my 3 year-old sidekick to follow me around holding a cleaning wipe dancing around with twirls, leaps and pure sweetness.

My sister Sarah, brother-in-law Gordon and their kids have been staying with us the last few days while visiting the Huntington Beach side of their family. Waking up to cousins to play with has been especially fun for our kids and has provided plenty of entertainment to keep my kids busy and happy. James was disappointed when he found out they were only staying here for a few days. Somehow he missed the memo that their visit wasn't long-term. I was sad when they left this morning and reminded of the blessing we enjoy of having them be part of our lives.

Mike’s been working in Chicago for three days. He came home last night. There are few things quite as cute as watching the way Gracie screamed in joy and yelled, “Daddy” when he walked up the stairs. She did the same thing when he got home from work ten minutes ago. The girl loves her daddy.

Due to problems with our computer and hard drive, I’m not able to post pictures for a while but here is a quick update so I don’t get too behind.

Jonathan wanted to invite a friend over. Mike asked him what he’d do with his friend and he said, “Just show him around the house.” I wish I had our home decorated enough to be tour worthy but alas it isn’t decorated much at all. I have ideas so it’s just a matter of me getting to it. He got a little embarrassed and said he sure hopes Ryan has on pants and doesn’t have a poopy diaper when his friend is over. Mike assured him we’d keep Ryan fully clothed. We wouldn’t want his baby brother to cause him any undo embarrassment.

I’ve been teaching myself the primary songs that go with The Articles of Faith. After I learn them, I teach them to the kids. It’s a lot of work teaching them but it’s been paying off and they have the first four memorized. I printed out little punch cards from pinterest and they mark which ones they’ve learned. It’s especially cute when James says the third one because he says, “We believe that through the atonement of Christ, old men may be saved.”

I think James was thrilled yesterday to see his primary teachers hair color is now his favorite color, blue.

The other day Gracie told me she wants to be a mommy someday. She just turned three so she doesn’t get any more early intervention. Miss Laura, one of her therapists said that Gracie was the most compliant student she’s had. It is so nice to hear that compliment. She has her moments but really parenting her so far is nothing compared with parenting the boys, not even close. I think it is a gender thing. We miss our visits from “Gracie’s friends”. Gracie asks when they are coming again.

Jonathan and James took swim class from my second cousin Jacquelyn this summer. She’s 17, very nice and did a great job. Gracie and Ryan and I went in the pool to glide around during some of their lessons and it was all I could do to keep them out of it on the days we weren’t dressed in swimsuits.

Michael decided Jonathan’s old enough to earn money when he does extra chores. He asked me what chores I thought would deserve getting paid for (above and beyond the basics) and I listed off things like cleaning the van and babysitting Ryan for me. Jonathan looked at the list and the first thing he said when seeing 50 cents for babysitting Ryan was, “I need a raise.” Of all the difficult things on the list he didn’t have to ask which would be the most demanding. When he attempted to watch Ryan he wouldn’t let him play with any toys because he didn’t want to clean them up.

Michael and I went to Vegas for a few days at the end of July. The company Mike works for, Cook Medical, had their 50th anniversary and guests/spouses were included in the festivities. Rumor has it the reason spouses are invited to things like these is to keep the employees in check since it’s a lot of partying, but hey, I can’t complain. I’m happy to help Michael be good. It was great to relax and get a break from the day-to-day. I must admit, go-karting, getting a massage, meals of lobster and sushi and living a life of ease felt good. I also enjoyed having a reason to dress up and talk with people over the age of seven. When driving to the Vegas casino to stay overnight, James said, "Mom, is this where you and Dad were married?". We appreciated my dad picking up the two older boys in St. George. By request he taught Jonathan the art of skipping stones. He brought a cooler with carbonated fruit from a drive in dry ice. I don’t think I’ve seen the boys enjoy fruit that much in a long time. James says Grandpa and Grandma D. said they are welcome anytime day or even in the middle of the night. He talked about what a good helper he was cleaning up “the shack” with Grandpa and all about their hike. Grandma and Grandpa Neyens took the two little ones which was a huge help. Traveling with little kids and babies is always tough and so having them watched close by meant a lot. Ryan wanted to stick with Grandma when he saw me again so she obviously won him over. He let Michael hold him after that and I only became his favorite the next day when there was no one else to go to. Not that I expect him to remember me screaming in pain giving birth to him or the countless diapers changes or the only person who ever woke up with him the first year of his life…. I'm just joking around, it's OK.

While we were in Utah my sister Mary was talking about the medicinal purposes of marijuana. She and her husband live in WA where a law was passed making it legal. She talked about how a lady with health problems makes a paste out of it and puts it on her toast and it has been helping tremendously. Mike called it, "I Can't Believe Its Not Marijuana". I thought the joke was blog-worthy.

Lastly, on a more somber note, we attended the funeral of our 10 month old nephew, Thomas. It was great to see loved ones and sad at the same time. My sister Mary, her husband Jared and their three other children have been so strong despite the hardships they’ve been through this last year, truly the refiner’s fire. They have been the recipients of lots of support and love as well. I won’t attempt to address his life or passing in detail since I wouldn’t do it justice. Suffice it to say, he was (and I am sure still is) a bundle of light and love. We are so grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ that makes it possible for family relationships to continue beyond the grave.

Just Saying...

James: "Ryan's teeth sure are sharp today!"

James: "So some guy shooted the skin off the dinosaurs?"

Jonathan before bed: "Can I trade my back scratch for money?"

While making cards for their baby cousin Thomas, Jonathan addressed his to, "Mr. T." James insisted on very specific wording, "This card is for Thomas. This is from James."

Gracie made up a song about Ryan this morning. It included something about him being a wild thing. We've been reading Where the Wild Things Are lately. She obviously recognizes one when she sees it.

While drawing a chalk figure of Grandma at her house yesterday, James asked her if she wanted "braids" and she said "yes". He clarified that he meant blades like helicopter baldes over her head. Grandma obviously isn't on the same page. She also had a sword. That's one tough grandma.

July 4th

We enjoyed a nice 4th in Oceanside. Grandma Neyens made big chunks of ice with surprises the the kids hammered and picked at. The other activities for the day were swinging over sprinklers, a very long board game, bubbles, chalk (Ryan loved making a mess with the chalk), movie, bbq and red white and blue fruit sticks, smores and relaxing- lots of fun!

Gracie

Gracie

James swinging over sprinklers

Ryan taking it easy

4th

James with Grandma Neyens.

Jonathan and James playing around with Grandpa Neyens.

James just sits on Grandpa's lap anytime he wants to.

James was really nice and helped Michael this morning when he mentioned he wasn’t feeling well. He gave him a hug and a kiss, a pillow and blanket and scratched his back. Michael was impressed. James said, “Dad, I love Mom a lot and I love you almost as much as I love her.” Michael replied, “I’ll take it. Now we know.”

James: “Mom, if a boy is sick does he get extra attention and love?”

Me: “Yes”

James: “What if he starts to feel better? Does he still get extra attention and love?”

Me: “Yes”

James: big grin

While eating breakfast the other day the kids had a conversation about my name.

James: “What’s Mom’s name?”

Jonathan: “Ruth”

Gracie (quite adamantly): “No, it’s Mommy!”

Ryan’s new thing is walking around smiling and bopping his sister on the head then either walking or crawling away fast.

I took the kids to the doctors today. Jonathan had his right ear cleaned out again. The kindergarten insisted James have his five year check-up early, so we did that. He went pee pee three times from the time we entered the waiting room until we left and of course Gracie had to give it a try each and every time. James enjoyed peeing in a cup and of course Gracie wanted a turn at that too. He is 94th %tile on weight and 93rd %tile on height. The doctor showed me where he is on a graph and explained that he is in the area where they warn parents that they are getting close to being overweight. As if I haven’t thrown his 50 pounds over my shoulder dragging him to his room a time or two in my life. We’ve already been there with Jonathan. He is seven and weighs half as much as his dad. I explained that both he and Jonathan take after me. “Their body mass is… dense”, I explained. I wanted to flex and expound more with “You know like Man of Steel, kryptonite dense”. It’s not like we feed them fast food and they don’t look chubby to me. She said Ryan’s doing well though. Phew, he’s only 88th %tile on height and weight. He had to get his 12 month shots and all the other kids covered their ears and went out to the hall so they wouldn’t have to hear him cry. We walked outside to a pond and counted turtles swimming. My sister Mary’s sweet 9 month-old baby is on life support right now. It has a way of making all these types of things seem insignificant.

I have good intentions of doing school type things with the kids this summer. It is easier said than done. Jonathan and James have found a new pastime riding the futon mattress head first down the stairs.

James' graduation solo

I'm trying to actually use the pins I have saved on pinterest. Yesterday, some rolls turned out well so I'm sharing the recipe. I added limeade to the frosting. Cooking or baking with Ryan is like cooking or baking in a tornado. Cinnamon Rolls

Summer vacation is here.  Here’s a picture of Jonathan on his last day of school.   Notice he still hasn’t lost any teeth yet.  I’m wondering if they’ll all come out at once.  His long hair is serving him well as sun protection so I suppose I can handle it for the summer. 

Yesterday, Michael and the three oldest kiddos cleaned the van for me – quite the cleaning crew.   They also spent time digging holes in the yard and getting nice and dirty climbing in the holes.