"Dance like no one is watching.
Sing like no one is listening.
Love like you've never been hurt
and live like it's heaven on Earth."
- Mark Twain
"Come clean with a child heart
Laugh as peaches in the summer wind
Let rain on a house roof be a song
Let the writing on your face be a smell of apple orchards on late June."
- Carl Sandburg
"try and expect nothing,
but be OPEN for anything.
Don't look far for happiness,
but never settle for anything less."
- C.S. Lewis
"Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.
Life is beauty, admire it.
Life is a dream, realize it.
Life is a challenge, meet it.
Life is a duty, complete it.
Life is a game, play it.
Life is a promise, fulfill it.
Life is sorrow, overcome it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is a struggle, accept it.
Life is a tragedy, confront it.
Life is an adventure, dare it.
Life is luck, make it.
Life is too precious, do not destroy it.
Life is life, fight for it."
- Mother Teresa
“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.” - Epicurus
"When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us " - Helen Keller
"Don't rely on someone else for your happiness and self worth. Only you can be responsible for that. If you can't love and respect yourself - no one else will be able to make that happen. Accept who you are - completely; the good and the bad - and make changes as YOU see fit - not because you think someone else wants you to be different.” - Stacey Charter
"Happiness is the meaning and purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence."
-Aristotle
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Ramblings and Reflections...
Today, AK, Roo, and I had the opportunity to spend a few hours in the waiting room of the auto shop while the brake system was getting looked at/repaired. Fun times. Seriously. While the girls entertained themselves sorting through a couple of tubs of kid's meal toys and wooden puzzles, I picked up an old copy of John Steinbeck's novel, The Winter of Our Discontent, and started reading.
It has been a while since I've sat down and read a book just for reading's sake - it was wonderful. I remember that as a child, I would read all the time...I think everyone in my family did. In our house reading was not looked at as boring or dull...it was an opportunity to escape into another world - one of mystery, or romance, or adventure, or fiction. I read all types of books, and I loved going to the library. This love for reading continued into my college years, and even after Doug and I were first married. Envision the two of us sitting on the couch in our 450 sq. ft basement apartment - Doug would flip hopelessly through the TV channels (all 17 of them), while I half-sat/half-sprawled across the couch, snuggled in blanket, engrossed in my latest find from the Murray City Library. He often teased me about being such a nerd, but I didn't mind - reading was such a big part of me; it was relaxing and invigorating both at the same time.
The last time I can remember being able to sit and read without interruption was during my pregnancy. In the 13 long weeks of doctor-ordered bedrest, I think I went through 10-12 books. And then the girls were born, and my reading opportunities went quickly out the door. Instead of being able to read into the wee hours of the morning anytime I wanted, I found myself juggling bottle feedings, burpings, and diaper changes. The library cards in my wallet were eventually taken out and lost, and my collection of books started collecting dust on the neglected bookcase. After a couple of moves, many of the books simply remained in boxes - no sense in unpacking something you don't have time for anymore, right?
So, why am I sharing all this right now (to be honest, this has come out entirely different than the post I intended to type)? Why am I up at 12:45 a.m., lamenting about missed reading opportunities? I believe that as I read the first few chapters in Steinbeck's novel, an old flame was rekindled. I found myself getting lost in the wonder of the intricate characters he so marvelously creates. I envisioned the the tiny whaling town, the centuries-old Hawley home, and the organized grocery store where Ethan Allen Hawley was kept prisoner to his circumstances. I remembered why I used to love reading so much; I didn't want to put the book down, I wanted to read page after page about Mr. Hawley's plan to make his life satisfactory.
Eventually, reality set in and I had to put the book down to resolve a conflict over a much-coveted toy. But, after reading that book today and experiencing the forgotten feelings that I did, I realized that I need to start doing more of the things that I love. I need to make more of an effort to read, to go running, to paint and draw, and to write - all of the things I used to do regularly that made me who I am today. Yes, I am a mother, wife, and student...but I need to learn to better manage my time so that I will be able to do the things that I personally enjoy.
One of my biggest struggles with accepting my role as a mother, is that I often feel I have lost my identity and individuality along the way. Through no fault of anyone else, this has led to a personal feeling of resentment, anger, and, well...discontent. I am then bombarded with guilt for feeling such anger and resentment, because it truly isn't warranted or justifiable....but it remains just the same, harbored deep inside me, which has created a great deal of personal unhappiness. Doug has been very patient and understanding, and to his credit, he has tried to help me as best as he can. The problem in dealing with this unhappiness, as I had to accept earlier this week, is that no one can make me happy except myself. I am solely responsible for my happiness; I, and I alone, will decide how to respond and react to life's events. I want to be happy, I do...but for so long I have felt that I didn't truly deserve it; that I hadn't done anything remarkable or extraordinary, and that this is the life I have created for myself.
But as I think of my two daughters, of their sweet innocence and pure love of life, I ask myself what reason do I have to not be happy? I have a wonderful husband who is patient, loving, forgiving, hard-working, and who accepts me for who I am. I have two beautiful and healthy daughters who hold no judgements or grudges against me, even though they know my imperfections better than anyone. I have supportive parents, siblings, and friends, who also accept me despite my weaknesses and shortcomings. I live in a country that encourages free thought and action, that provides so many opportunities and possibilities. I have faith. I believe in a religion that teaches love, hope, charity, and eternal happiness. I have a good life. I realize now that any unhappiness I experience is merely of my own doing.
So, here's to a more fervent attempt at enjoying what my life has to offer, of seeing the blessing in the small and simple things I experience, to accepting who I am and what I have to give others, to re-learning how to be truly happy...and to reading more books.
It has been a while since I've sat down and read a book just for reading's sake - it was wonderful. I remember that as a child, I would read all the time...I think everyone in my family did. In our house reading was not looked at as boring or dull...it was an opportunity to escape into another world - one of mystery, or romance, or adventure, or fiction. I read all types of books, and I loved going to the library. This love for reading continued into my college years, and even after Doug and I were first married. Envision the two of us sitting on the couch in our 450 sq. ft basement apartment - Doug would flip hopelessly through the TV channels (all 17 of them), while I half-sat/half-sprawled across the couch, snuggled in blanket, engrossed in my latest find from the Murray City Library. He often teased me about being such a nerd, but I didn't mind - reading was such a big part of me; it was relaxing and invigorating both at the same time.
The last time I can remember being able to sit and read without interruption was during my pregnancy. In the 13 long weeks of doctor-ordered bedrest, I think I went through 10-12 books. And then the girls were born, and my reading opportunities went quickly out the door. Instead of being able to read into the wee hours of the morning anytime I wanted, I found myself juggling bottle feedings, burpings, and diaper changes. The library cards in my wallet were eventually taken out and lost, and my collection of books started collecting dust on the neglected bookcase. After a couple of moves, many of the books simply remained in boxes - no sense in unpacking something you don't have time for anymore, right?
So, why am I sharing all this right now (to be honest, this has come out entirely different than the post I intended to type)? Why am I up at 12:45 a.m., lamenting about missed reading opportunities? I believe that as I read the first few chapters in Steinbeck's novel, an old flame was rekindled. I found myself getting lost in the wonder of the intricate characters he so marvelously creates. I envisioned the the tiny whaling town, the centuries-old Hawley home, and the organized grocery store where Ethan Allen Hawley was kept prisoner to his circumstances. I remembered why I used to love reading so much; I didn't want to put the book down, I wanted to read page after page about Mr. Hawley's plan to make his life satisfactory.
Eventually, reality set in and I had to put the book down to resolve a conflict over a much-coveted toy. But, after reading that book today and experiencing the forgotten feelings that I did, I realized that I need to start doing more of the things that I love. I need to make more of an effort to read, to go running, to paint and draw, and to write - all of the things I used to do regularly that made me who I am today. Yes, I am a mother, wife, and student...but I need to learn to better manage my time so that I will be able to do the things that I personally enjoy.
One of my biggest struggles with accepting my role as a mother, is that I often feel I have lost my identity and individuality along the way. Through no fault of anyone else, this has led to a personal feeling of resentment, anger, and, well...discontent. I am then bombarded with guilt for feeling such anger and resentment, because it truly isn't warranted or justifiable....but it remains just the same, harbored deep inside me, which has created a great deal of personal unhappiness. Doug has been very patient and understanding, and to his credit, he has tried to help me as best as he can. The problem in dealing with this unhappiness, as I had to accept earlier this week, is that no one can make me happy except myself. I am solely responsible for my happiness; I, and I alone, will decide how to respond and react to life's events. I want to be happy, I do...but for so long I have felt that I didn't truly deserve it; that I hadn't done anything remarkable or extraordinary, and that this is the life I have created for myself.
But as I think of my two daughters, of their sweet innocence and pure love of life, I ask myself what reason do I have to not be happy? I have a wonderful husband who is patient, loving, forgiving, hard-working, and who accepts me for who I am. I have two beautiful and healthy daughters who hold no judgements or grudges against me, even though they know my imperfections better than anyone. I have supportive parents, siblings, and friends, who also accept me despite my weaknesses and shortcomings. I live in a country that encourages free thought and action, that provides so many opportunities and possibilities. I have faith. I believe in a religion that teaches love, hope, charity, and eternal happiness. I have a good life. I realize now that any unhappiness I experience is merely of my own doing.
So, here's to a more fervent attempt at enjoying what my life has to offer, of seeing the blessing in the small and simple things I experience, to accepting who I am and what I have to give others, to re-learning how to be truly happy...and to reading more books.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Calling All Moms....Calling All Moms!
SO, I am seeking the advice of all moms in how to deal with an extremely picky eater, who seemingly grows pickier with each new day. As many of you know, my first born (bless her heart) has always been a very selective eater. It has now progressed to the point where she will only drink milk, and it has to be from a sippy cup. Forget the fruits or veggies or breads or noodles or anything...lately, the one and only thing she wants is milk (the only exceptions to this would be chicken nuggets and french fries). I fear I may have fueled the development of this behavior, as I thought I was doing good in trying to avoid the monumental tantrums that occur when said beverage is denied. However, I know that my little girl cannot live on milk alone, which is where the help, guidance, and suggestions from you other mothers is needed.
If any of you have had to deal with a similar issue, or if you can share any insight on how to get my child to eat real food (or any food other than chicken nuggets and french fries), or even if you have a knockout, never-fails recipe that your kids love, I would greatly, GREATLY appreciate any help you could give. I'll say my thanks in advance....at this point, I am sure that anything is better than what I am doing!
If any of you have had to deal with a similar issue, or if you can share any insight on how to get my child to eat real food (or any food other than chicken nuggets and french fries), or even if you have a knockout, never-fails recipe that your kids love, I would greatly, GREATLY appreciate any help you could give. I'll say my thanks in advance....at this point, I am sure that anything is better than what I am doing!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Who Am I Kidding?
Today is the day I realized I have absolutely, positively no clue what I am doing as a mother. I had my doubts before, lots of them, but today simply confirmed it. AK and Roo have gotten the best of me...they have tried and tested every ounce of patience in me...I am totally and completely spent.
I cannot handle the constant screaming and tantrums, the endless replies of "No, mama...I said NO!" I am tired of the daily struggles to get their hair brushed, teeth brushed, [clean] clothes put on, diapers changed, toys picked up, [healthy] food eaten, food picked up, or to simply get both of them from the apartment to the car without having to go back for a million forgotten things (sippy cups, teddy, cheetah, striped blankey, purse, toys....etc., etc.). I have almost completely given up on their afternoon naps, and bed time comes whenever they finally stop fighting with us (lately, it's been about 10:30 or 11:00). I do not like getting hit, or kicked, or scratched when I try to pick them up off the ground mid-tantrum, but I don't know what else to do when we are in the middle of a store and one of my children decides to have a spontaneous meltdown.
I understand these "episodes" are to be expected at this age. As my sister-in-law has mentioned, we are leaving the "terrible two's" and entering the "horrible three's." Maybe I feel overwhelmed because I have to battle with two [very independent and sassy] toddlers at the same time, when many parents only have one. Maybe I feel inadequate because so many other parents make it look so easy. Whatever the reason or explanation may be, who am I kidding - I simply am not cut out to be a mother...at least, not today anyway.
It figures that just as I was finishing this post, AK came up to me after getting out of the tub and asked me so sweetly to brush her hair. When I was done, she said "Thanks, mama" and puckered up to give me a kiss. I ask myself now how such a sweet and loving girl can give me such a hard time??? Am I magnifying all the "hard times" into something much worse than they really are? I feel terrible losing my patience with the girls so many times today; for being so quick to anger and discipline them rather than being concerned and caring. I still have so much to learn about being a mother, and I realize if I give up now, I will not be able to grow into the mother that AK and Roo truly deserve. I have many faults; I am aware of my weaknesses; but tomorrow will give me another chance to learn and grow from the two most patient teachers I know - my sweet, beautiful, and loving daughters. Honestly....what could be better than that?
Even though my current life has many tantrums, and fits, and a lot of screams and crying, I know there are many more hugs, and kisses, and giggles, and snuggles in store for me in the future. I need to keep that in mind and look at the big picture. Life is all about learning and loving and growing...life, for me at least, is all about being a mom.
I cannot handle the constant screaming and tantrums, the endless replies of "No, mama...I said NO!" I am tired of the daily struggles to get their hair brushed, teeth brushed, [clean] clothes put on, diapers changed, toys picked up, [healthy] food eaten, food picked up, or to simply get both of them from the apartment to the car without having to go back for a million forgotten things (sippy cups, teddy, cheetah, striped blankey, purse, toys....etc., etc.). I have almost completely given up on their afternoon naps, and bed time comes whenever they finally stop fighting with us (lately, it's been about 10:30 or 11:00). I do not like getting hit, or kicked, or scratched when I try to pick them up off the ground mid-tantrum, but I don't know what else to do when we are in the middle of a store and one of my children decides to have a spontaneous meltdown.
I understand these "episodes" are to be expected at this age. As my sister-in-law has mentioned, we are leaving the "terrible two's" and entering the "horrible three's." Maybe I feel overwhelmed because I have to battle with two [very independent and sassy] toddlers at the same time, when many parents only have one. Maybe I feel inadequate because so many other parents make it look so easy. Whatever the reason or explanation may be, who am I kidding - I simply am not cut out to be a mother...at least, not today anyway.
It figures that just as I was finishing this post, AK came up to me after getting out of the tub and asked me so sweetly to brush her hair. When I was done, she said "Thanks, mama" and puckered up to give me a kiss. I ask myself now how such a sweet and loving girl can give me such a hard time??? Am I magnifying all the "hard times" into something much worse than they really are? I feel terrible losing my patience with the girls so many times today; for being so quick to anger and discipline them rather than being concerned and caring. I still have so much to learn about being a mother, and I realize if I give up now, I will not be able to grow into the mother that AK and Roo truly deserve. I have many faults; I am aware of my weaknesses; but tomorrow will give me another chance to learn and grow from the two most patient teachers I know - my sweet, beautiful, and loving daughters. Honestly....what could be better than that?
Even though my current life has many tantrums, and fits, and a lot of screams and crying, I know there are many more hugs, and kisses, and giggles, and snuggles in store for me in the future. I need to keep that in mind and look at the big picture. Life is all about learning and loving and growing...life, for me at least, is all about being a mom.
We Have Returned!
I know it has been a while since our last blog post, but we just got back from a week-long trip, that was a much needed break for all of us. Although we spent the majority of time in the car (we drove from Arizona to Idaho and back - over 2000 miles in 7 days), we were able to visit with family and friends, see Yellowstone National Park, go floating down the Snake River, go fishing, and just have an all-around good time.
We took lots of pictures, but I need to find my adapter stick so I can upload them from the camera. I will try and get that done later today so you can see how much fun we really had.
This trip convinced us that we should do a big family trip every summer. Regardless of whether it's with extended family or just our family of four, a trip like this - away from home, work, and the daily grind - is good for the soul.
We took lots of pictures, but I need to find my adapter stick so I can upload them from the camera. I will try and get that done later today so you can see how much fun we really had.
This trip convinced us that we should do a big family trip every summer. Regardless of whether it's with extended family or just our family of four, a trip like this - away from home, work, and the daily grind - is good for the soul.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
One Word Tag
One word Tag
I saw this on my sister-in-law's blog and thought it would be kind of fun (and yes....I really tried to keep limit my responses to one word as intended)
1. Where is your cell phone? ..... unsure
2.Your significant other? ..... patient
3. Your hair? ..... adorable
4. Your mother? ..... loving
5. Your father? ..... hard-working
6. Your favorite thing? ..... family
7. Your dream last night? ..... don't recall
8. Your favorite drink? ..... Dr. Pepper
9. Your dream/goal? ..... happiness
10. The room you're in? ..... family Room
11. Your hobby? ..... mothering
12.Your fear? ..... disappointment
13. Where do you want to be in six years? ..... Oceanside
14. Where were you last night? ..... IKEA
15. What you're not? ..... all-knowing
16. Muffins? ..... cranberry-orange
17. One of your wish list items? ..... debt-free
18. Where you grew up? ..... Upland
19. The last thing you did? ..... homework
20. What are you wearing? ..... clothes
21. Your t.v.? ..... off
22. Your pets? ..... none
23. Your computer? ..... lemon
24. Your life? ..... progressing
25.Your mood? ..... indifferent
26. Missing someone? ..... friends
27. Your car? ..... filthy
28. Something you're not wearing? ..... glasses
29. Favorite store? ..... Target
30. Your summer? ..... laid-back
31. Like someone? ..... yup
32. Your favorite color? ..... blue or brown
33. When was the last time you laughed? ..... earlier
34. Last time you cried? ..... yesterday
I saw this on my sister-in-law's blog and thought it would be kind of fun (and yes....I really tried to keep limit my responses to one word as intended)
1. Where is your cell phone? ..... unsure
2.Your significant other? ..... patient
3. Your hair? ..... adorable
4. Your mother? ..... loving
5. Your father? ..... hard-working
6. Your favorite thing? ..... family
7. Your dream last night? ..... don't recall
8. Your favorite drink? ..... Dr. Pepper
9. Your dream/goal? ..... happiness
10. The room you're in? ..... family Room
11. Your hobby? ..... mothering
12.Your fear? ..... disappointment
13. Where do you want to be in six years? ..... Oceanside
14. Where were you last night? ..... IKEA
15. What you're not? ..... all-knowing
16. Muffins? ..... cranberry-orange
17. One of your wish list items? ..... debt-free
18. Where you grew up? ..... Upland
19. The last thing you did? ..... homework
20. What are you wearing? ..... clothes
21. Your t.v.? ..... off
22. Your pets? ..... none
23. Your computer? ..... lemon
24. Your life? ..... progressing
25.Your mood? ..... indifferent
26. Missing someone? ..... friends
27. Your car? ..... filthy
28. Something you're not wearing? ..... glasses
29. Favorite store? ..... Target
30. Your summer? ..... laid-back
31. Like someone? ..... yup
32. Your favorite color? ..... blue or brown
33. When was the last time you laughed? ..... earlier
34. Last time you cried? ..... yesterday
Friday, July 4, 2008
Happy Independence Day
We, the people...of the D.B.A.R. Hoopes family in Chandler, Arizona, do solemnly swear....to wish everyone a very happy and enjoyable 4th of July!! Whether your day was spent working, sleeping, swimming, BBQing, studying, cleaning, shopping, or a combination of all of the above, we hope that your Independence Day celebration was wonderful!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Mission Move Again...Accomplished.
Just so everyone knows, we made it through the move successfully. I still have some boxes to unpack, but AK and Roo have been extremely helpful in that regard and we've covered a lot of ground these past few days. I will be sending an email out shortly with our new address, just so everyone can keep in touch with us at our new place!!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
For the Record...
...I hate, absolutely HATE, moving. Actually, I don't think hate is a strong enough word - Detest? Abhor? Loathe? Abominate? Despise? Disdain? Revile? Nope....still don't think any of these express words adequately describe my feelings on the matter.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
I've been tagged...
...by my sister Cynth (thanks for catching me mid-packing session for our move next week - the house is a mess). ANYWAY - here are the rules of the game: 10 photos (minimum), take them right away, NO CLEANING UP FIRST, then you get to tag 5 people.
2. Self Portrait: Yup...this is me. Going on day 2 of the new hair cut...and feeling totally weird having to take a picture of myself. I feel much more comfortable behind the camera rather than in front (which is why you won't find too many pictures of me on this blog).
4. My Closet: Nothing too exciting here...one closet, two occupants, and a really BIG mess.
6. My Favorite Shoes: These flip-flops were bought about 3 years ago from the Rip Curl Outlet in Cabazon for about $5. They are definitely my shoe of choice six days out of the week - I do refrain from wearing them to church.
So there you have it...these are the pictures of my life...today. Now I tag anyone who has the time, and the desire, to join in the fun!! (I always feel bad naming people because I don't want anyone to feel obligated).
1. Dream Vacation: Doug and I have always talked about where we would travel if we had the extra money (and could find a babysitter for the extended period of time). Although it is not the most posh place to vacation, our dream trip would entail going to the Marshall Islands, where he served his mission. Doug often talks about going back and seeing the people who had such a significant influence on his faith and testimony. We would finish the trip up with a few days in the Florida Keys - fishing, scuba diving (me), and just lounging around watching the beautiful sunsets.
2. Self Portrait: Yup...this is me. Going on day 2 of the new hair cut...and feeling totally weird having to take a picture of myself. I feel much more comfortable behind the camera rather than in front (which is why you won't find too many pictures of me on this blog).
3. What My Kids Are Doing Right Now: I first started taking pictures for this photo tag after I put the girls down for their nap. Obviously, as the pictures display, they decided they were not tired and jumping on the bed would be more fun. When I finally got around to uploading the photos from the camera to the computer, the girls had finally dropped out of sheer exhaustion (about 2 hours after the first set of pictures were taken)
4. My Closet: Nothing too exciting here...one closet, two occupants, and a really BIG mess.
5. My Favorite Room: Is, in fact, not a room at all. I decided to turn our upstairs hallway into a family photo wall - it displays pics from before Doug and I were hitched to present. All-in-all, I believe there are 25 pictures total...it's a lot of fun to see how much we've all changed in just a few years. This is something I hope to continue in all our future homes (or apartments).
6. My Favorite Shoes: These flip-flops were bought about 3 years ago from the Rip Curl Outlet in Cabazon for about $5. They are definitely my shoe of choice six days out of the week - I do refrain from wearing them to church.
7. My Laundry Room: Or rather, our laundry closet. I cannot wait for the day when we live in a house with a full-fledged laundry room. In the meantime, however, we deal with the overly-crammed, accordion-door guarded closet...there is never enough room for sorting, washing, or folding, which is probably part of the reason I despise doing laundry so much.
8. My Second Bathroom: This is the girls bathroom, located upstairs towards the front of the house. I must admit, I will not miss this bathroom after we move - it is much too small to accommodate two potty-training girls, is has limited storage, and there is very little space to kneel while bathing the girls.
9. My Kitchen Sink: I am grateful for the double-divided sink, although I honestly don't think the entire thing has ever been empty since we moved into this house. I will miss the faucet greatly - it has probably been my favorite part of this whole house.
10. My Refrigerator: Here you have it - an inside and outside look at the fridge. Nothing too exciting...sorry about that. If I had done this a week ago, it would have been even more boring as our fridge was pretty much empty except for a gallon of milk, a carton of eggs, and some old fruit down in the drawers. Pathetic, I know...but I have to limit my shopping for the next week because I hate moving food.
So there you have it...these are the pictures of my life...today. Now I tag anyone who has the time, and the desire, to join in the fun!! (I always feel bad naming people because I don't want anyone to feel obligated).
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
A Much Needed Change...
So, after feeling for months that I needed to do something to change my appearance and give myself a much needed esteem boost, I decided to cut my hair. Doug aided my endeavor by taking the girls out to dinner and the mall tonight after he dropped me off at a hair salon. I went in feeling embarrassed by my tired, run-down appearance, but the stylist (Kristen) was absolutely WONDERFUL and provided me the much needed boost I desired.
I pretty much gave her free reign on my hair, and even though it turned much different (blonder and shorter) than I intended, I have to say I LOVE IT!! Here are some quick pics I took after I put the girls down to bed...I hope you like the results!
I pretty much gave her free reign on my hair, and even though it turned much different (blonder and shorter) than I intended, I have to say I LOVE IT!! Here are some quick pics I took after I put the girls down to bed...I hope you like the results!
Fun times with Toddlers...
I called the pediatrician triage line, who immediately ordered us to go get x-rays. Fortunately, the x-rays showed the coin avoided passing into to the lung and had safely passed through the esophagus into the stomach. That was a relief, but now I get the fun job of inspecting all of Roo's bowel movements for the next 4-5 days in hopes of locating the swallowed coin (which, the doctor commented looks much larger than a nickel). If the coin isn't passed by the end of the week, then we'll have to take Roo back in for another x-ray to view its progress.
So, here's to fun times with toddlers...and swallowing coins, x-rays, medical emergencies, and inspecting poo for the next week. Aren't you all jealous?
Monday, June 16, 2008
Happy Be-lated Father's Day
So, I know I'm a little late on this post, but I still wanted to wish a Happy Father's Day to all the Papa's, Daddy's, Fathers, and Grand-dads out there. Thank you, to all the male figures in my life, for your examples of strength, wisdom, patience, dedication, hard-work, and love.
Happy Father's Day!!
Happy Father's Day!!
Monday, June 9, 2008
On the move....again...
So it's official. We will be moving (again) on Tuesday, June 24th to some apartments about 5 minutes south of the home we are currently in. We love the neighborhood we are in, and these apartments will also keep us in the same ward - which we also love. So, even though it means we will be down-sizing, the move will ultimately allow us to save up much faster for our own home.
Oh, and another TOTAL benefit of the apartment is that there are NO scorpions. NONE. That fact alone was pretty much the deal-winner for me. Wa-hoo!!
Oh, and another TOTAL benefit of the apartment is that there are NO scorpions. NONE. That fact alone was pretty much the deal-winner for me. Wa-hoo!!
Saturday, June 7, 2008
It's all Good
Even though it has not been the full 8 hours the Poison Control Center cautioned us about, I think it is safe to say Roo is feeling much better after suffering from a very minor scorpion sting. When I went in to check on her toward the end of her nap, I found both of my darling girls jumping joyously on Roo's bed. As as soon as she saw me, she beckoned "C'mon mama, c'mon! Jump with us!" and was quickly joined by AK in saying "Yeah mama...c'mon!"
We are lucky it was a very minor sting, but just to set the record straight, I still hate scorpions with a passion. They are nasty, creepy, vile creatures and the world would do just fine without their existence.
We are lucky it was a very minor sting, but just to set the record straight, I still hate scorpions with a passion. They are nasty, creepy, vile creatures and the world would do just fine without their existence.
The inevitable has happened...
Maybe it was karma due to my endless worrying about the scorpions in our home, or maybe it was just a higher being's way of telling us the time is right to get out of this house. Either way, for whatever the reason, the inevitable has happened...today, Roo stepped on a scorpion tail.
I was out in the garage putting some things aside for our garage sale next week, and Roo came out to join me. She didn't have shoes on, so I quickly shooed her inside saying I didn't want her to step on anything. Well, as I said that she picked up her foot and said "Ouch!" I didn't have my glasses on at the time, and thought I saw just a small stick under her foot, so I picked her up and took her inside. About two minutes later, I went back out in the front room and Roo was sitting on the floor scratching at her foot....the look on her face was one of total discomfort so I asked her what was wrong. "Ouch mama. Foot hurts. I need nurse. Go to doctor, mama" was her reply. I looked where she was scratching and couldn't see any prick point, but I went and got soap, a wet paper towel, some dry paper towels, a cold compress and quickly cleaned her entire foot then blotted it dry. She said it still hurt, but she wasn't scratching at it as much after I cleaned it. My mother's intuition must have been ringing loud and clear, because I decided to go back out to the garage and look where she had stepped. Sure enough, there was a scorpion tail right at the spot where she had stopped and said "Ouch." I picked it up with a straw and put it into a plastic baggy, then I called poison control just to find out what should be done.
The nice lady on the phone told me exactly what to do (cleaning with soap and water and putting a cold compress on it were two of the first things she told me....guess that basic first aid instinct from all those years of girls camp and 2 years of Medical Assisting courses at Palomar finally came in handy!) and what symptoms to look for. Since most of the symptoms of scorpion stings are felt and cannot be observed (such as numbness and pain), it is somewhat difficult for the mother of a toddler to measure just how much pain her daughter is in. The symptoms escalate in the first 6-8 hours after the initial sting, but after that they are supposed to subside. The main things to look for were drooling, twitching of the eyes, scratching at her throat like it was itching or she was having difficulty breathing, and difficulty in swallowing food or water.
We are lucky that Roo only suffered a minor sting. She had some slight drooling and is favoring her foot a little, but other than that she seems to be all right. I have been watching her breathing patterns and observing her eyes, and (knock on wood) those appear to be normal. She hasn't had as much water to drink as usual, but she isn't scratching at her throat or saying that its hurting her, sooooo....I'm hoping that means she will be okay and we won't have to go the ER today. We are going on 4 1/2 hours since the sting...I'm a nervous wreck inside, but I am trying to think positively and hope that my quick reactions helped a little bit.
Bottom line, I just wish I could take over whatever pain she is feeling...I would take it from her in a heartbeat, without any question. And the next time I see a scorpion, it better say a quick prayer before it meets the sole of my shoe because there will be NO mercy from this mother.
P.S. If you ever come across a dead scorpion, or pieces from a dismembered scorpion, PLEASE do not decide to play with the nasty thing. Even though it's dead or detached, the poison can still hurt you if you poke it just right. I seriously think scorpions are the spawn of the devil - I mean, honestly, how many other things can still inflict serious physical harm on people even after they're dead?
It's creepy...and unnatural...and I hate those nasty little things more than ever.
I was out in the garage putting some things aside for our garage sale next week, and Roo came out to join me. She didn't have shoes on, so I quickly shooed her inside saying I didn't want her to step on anything. Well, as I said that she picked up her foot and said "Ouch!" I didn't have my glasses on at the time, and thought I saw just a small stick under her foot, so I picked her up and took her inside. About two minutes later, I went back out in the front room and Roo was sitting on the floor scratching at her foot....the look on her face was one of total discomfort so I asked her what was wrong. "Ouch mama. Foot hurts. I need nurse. Go to doctor, mama" was her reply. I looked where she was scratching and couldn't see any prick point, but I went and got soap, a wet paper towel, some dry paper towels, a cold compress and quickly cleaned her entire foot then blotted it dry. She said it still hurt, but she wasn't scratching at it as much after I cleaned it. My mother's intuition must have been ringing loud and clear, because I decided to go back out to the garage and look where she had stepped. Sure enough, there was a scorpion tail right at the spot where she had stopped and said "Ouch." I picked it up with a straw and put it into a plastic baggy, then I called poison control just to find out what should be done.
The nice lady on the phone told me exactly what to do (cleaning with soap and water and putting a cold compress on it were two of the first things she told me....guess that basic first aid instinct from all those years of girls camp and 2 years of Medical Assisting courses at Palomar finally came in handy!) and what symptoms to look for. Since most of the symptoms of scorpion stings are felt and cannot be observed (such as numbness and pain), it is somewhat difficult for the mother of a toddler to measure just how much pain her daughter is in. The symptoms escalate in the first 6-8 hours after the initial sting, but after that they are supposed to subside. The main things to look for were drooling, twitching of the eyes, scratching at her throat like it was itching or she was having difficulty breathing, and difficulty in swallowing food or water.
We are lucky that Roo only suffered a minor sting. She had some slight drooling and is favoring her foot a little, but other than that she seems to be all right. I have been watching her breathing patterns and observing her eyes, and (knock on wood) those appear to be normal. She hasn't had as much water to drink as usual, but she isn't scratching at her throat or saying that its hurting her, sooooo....I'm hoping that means she will be okay and we won't have to go the ER today. We are going on 4 1/2 hours since the sting...I'm a nervous wreck inside, but I am trying to think positively and hope that my quick reactions helped a little bit.
Bottom line, I just wish I could take over whatever pain she is feeling...I would take it from her in a heartbeat, without any question. And the next time I see a scorpion, it better say a quick prayer before it meets the sole of my shoe because there will be NO mercy from this mother.
P.S. If you ever come across a dead scorpion, or pieces from a dismembered scorpion, PLEASE do not decide to play with the nasty thing. Even though it's dead or detached, the poison can still hurt you if you poke it just right. I seriously think scorpions are the spawn of the devil - I mean, honestly, how many other things can still inflict serious physical harm on people even after they're dead?
It's creepy...and unnatural...and I hate those nasty little things more than ever.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Infatuated
in·fat·u·a·tion /[in-fach-oo-ey-shuh n]
–noun
1. A foolish, unreasoning, or extravagant passion or attraction.
2. An object of extravagant, short-lived passion.
Synonyms: attachment, craze, crush, fascination, folly, love, madness, obsession, passion
Money: We have had piggy banks for the girls ever since they were first born, but it wasn't until lately that they realized the profound joy of having money. They can now correctly (usually) identify pennies & quarters, but we're still working on dimes (which they call "baby monies") and nickels. They don't really care much for "paper monies," but I'll occasionally put a dollar bill or two in their bank just because. Roo has a knack for finding money everywhere we go - whether it's to the store, the bank, the car...whatever our destination is for the day, she usually ends up bringing home some kind of change she discovered along the way.
School: This is probably a reflection of the intense workload from my last class (which I barely passed, but a passing grade is a passing grade, so I won't complain). Anyway, AK's latest thing is to climb up to the computer and proudly declare "I do homework mama. Go away." She will even grab a notebook and pen and act like she is scribbling notes while typing away at the keyboard. It is seriously, the cutest thing to watch. I just hope this diligence in her studies will continue when she's older.
Pumpkins: This one is also all Roo. For whatever reason, she has become
attached to her pumpkin shirt from last Halloween. She asks to wear it every day, and every night...she would even wear it in the tub, if we would let her. I guess it's a good thing we bought two, because I usually have to switch her from one to the other just so I can wash the darn thing for the next day. The other night we came home from Walmart, and we had stopped for some french fries on the way home. Roo happened to find a little pumpkin pail from our Halloween decorations while I was unstrapping AK from her carseat. She immediately ditched the french fry box and put them in the pumpkin pail, then came running around the car saying "I found it mama! Look it!! I found the pumpkin pail!" She was so proud of her discovery - I just had to take a picture. I've heard of Christmas in July...is there such a thing as Halloween in June?
Band-aids: Anytime the girls get a bump, bruise, scrape, etc., they get a sad/disheartened look on their face and declare "I need nurse mama," which translates to "I need a band-aid." Usually, a band-aid is totally unnecessary, but they still ask because they love the sticky things. And, if one of the girls gets a band-aid, then of course her sister demands one too...and how can you say yes to one and no to another?
–noun
1. A foolish, unreasoning, or extravagant passion or attraction.
2. An object of extravagant, short-lived passion.
Synonyms: attachment, craze, crush, fascination, folly, love, madness, obsession, passion
So, it seems that part of being 2 1/2 years old is becoming infatuated with seemingly anything and everything that the girls come into contact with. Just to fill you in on some fads that have lasted longer than others, here is a collection of AK & Roo's most recent infatuations:
Money: We have had piggy banks for the girls ever since they were first born, but it wasn't until lately that they realized the profound joy of having money. They can now correctly (usually) identify pennies & quarters, but we're still working on dimes (which they call "baby monies") and nickels. They don't really care much for "paper monies," but I'll occasionally put a dollar bill or two in their bank just because. Roo has a knack for finding money everywhere we go - whether it's to the store, the bank, the car...whatever our destination is for the day, she usually ends up bringing home some kind of change she discovered along the way.Horseys: Ever since we visited Fallbrook this past March, the girls have been obsessed with horses. They love watching them, talking about them, playing with them, and seeing pictures about them. Any mention of Paga Hoopes (Grandpa Hoopes), and there is bound to be cries of "I ride horsey in California. I like horseys, mama." These pictures are of the girls playing horsey with their wonderful Uncle Bryce.
Cheese: This is nothing new, nor has Roo's infatuation with cheese 
diminished...at all. She loves it - in all varities, shapes, colors, flavors, etc. As long as it is cheese, she'll eat it. Period. And it doesn't even matter what time of day. Cheese is usually the first thing she asks for in the morning, and the last thing she asks for at night.
School: This is probably a reflection of the intense workload from my last class (which I barely passed, but a passing grade is a passing grade, so I won't complain). Anyway, AK's latest thing is to climb up to the computer and proudly declare "I do homework mama. Go away." She will even grab a notebook and pen and act like she is scribbling notes while typing away at the keyboard. It is seriously, the cutest thing to watch. I just hope this diligence in her studies will continue when she's older. Pumpkins: This one is also all Roo. For whatever reason, she has become
attached to her pumpkin shirt from last Halloween. She asks to wear it every day, and every night...she would even wear it in the tub, if we would let her. I guess it's a good thing we bought two, because I usually have to switch her from one to the other just so I can wash the darn thing for the next day. The other night we came home from Walmart, and we had stopped for some french fries on the way home. Roo happened to find a little pumpkin pail from our Halloween decorations while I was unstrapping AK from her carseat. She immediately ditched the french fry box and put them in the pumpkin pail, then came running around the car saying "I found it mama! Look it!! I found the pumpkin pail!" She was so proud of her discovery - I just had to take a picture. I've heard of Christmas in July...is there such a thing as Halloween in June? 
Band-aids: Anytime the girls get a bump, bruise, scrape, etc., they get a sad/disheartened look on their face and declare "I need nurse mama," which translates to "I need a band-aid." Usually, a band-aid is totally unnecessary, but they still ask because they love the sticky things. And, if one of the girls gets a band-aid, then of course her sister demands one too...and how can you say yes to one and no to another? Chipmunks: Since we do not have cable, and since I was getting tired of watching the same 3 movies over and over with the girls, we have started a n
ew weekly ritual of going to Blockbuster and picking out one movie for the girls to watch for the following week (sometimes I pick it out, sometimes they come with me). We only keep the movie one week, but the girls can watch it as much as they want. Well, the last movie we rented was Alvin and the Chipmunks and I think we are going to have buy this one. AK has become completely enamored with the three talking/dancing/singing rodents, and she refuses to watch any movie but Chipmunks. It is actually quite funny to watch, because as soon as a song comes on she hops up and starts dancing around, and she insists everyone else gets up and dance as well "C'mon mama. Hold hands mama, please."
ew weekly ritual of going to Blockbuster and picking out one movie for the girls to watch for the following week (sometimes I pick it out, sometimes they come with me). We only keep the movie one week, but the girls can watch it as much as they want. Well, the last movie we rented was Alvin and the Chipmunks and I think we are going to have buy this one. AK has become completely enamored with the three talking/dancing/singing rodents, and she refuses to watch any movie but Chipmunks. It is actually quite funny to watch, because as soon as a song comes on she hops up and starts dancing around, and she insists everyone else gets up and dance as well "C'mon mama. Hold hands mama, please."Nail polish: The girls, especially AK, LOVE getting their "toe toes" (toenails) 
painted. They are so proud of their pink polished nails, they display them any chance they get, to any person who may be passing by. It doesn't matter where we are, or what the person may be in the middle of, the girls will fearlessly approach the unsuspecting person and declare "Look how cute! My toe toes are so pretty." Of course, they are usually rewarded with smiles of adoration which only serve to encourage them more, but it is so funny to see how happy they are with something as simple as toenail polish.
painted. They are so proud of their pink polished nails, they display them any chance they get, to any person who may be passing by. It doesn't matter where we are, or what the person may be in the middle of, the girls will fearlessly approach the unsuspecting person and declare "Look how cute! My toe toes are so pretty." Of course, they are usually rewarded with smiles of adoration which only serve to encourage them more, but it is so funny to see how happy they are with something as simple as toenail polish.Thursday, June 5, 2008
Girls Night Out
So, for those of you who may not know, Doug picked up a second job so that I could quit working the night audit shift at Hyattplace. Of course, adding a second job on top of UOP, school, and his calling (which requires one night a week at the Stake Employment Center), means that the four of us don't get to hang out together as often as we would like. Last Friday night, while Doug had to work, the girls and I went to the mall for dinner (you gotta love Hot Dog on a Stick) and some fun on this totally sweet, 2-story carousel.
I forgot to take my camera, but I had my cell phone handy to snap some quick pics of the girls. They had a blast, and two rides each on the carousel were not NEARLY enough for them. I was finally able to coerce them off the "am-i-mals" by promising them we'd get some ice cream cones. Terrible, I know...but it worked. AND, it meant a yummy treat for all of us.
AK munching on "fench fies" (her favorite) - Roo about to sip some lemonade
The carousel - OF COURSE the girls wanted to ride on the second level.
AK on the "big birdie" - Roo riding the "pretty horsey"
The only thing that would have made it better was if Doug had been able to join us. Thank you, papa, for working as hard as you do. We really appreciate it...even if we don't say it often enough!!
Monday, June 2, 2008
Sunday, May 25, 2008
The girls have a new baby cousin!
Congratulations to Bobbi and Brandon on the arrival on their beautiful baby girl (and my adorable new niece) Lacey Kailani. Lacey was born Saturday, May 24th at 5:46 pm. She weighed 7 lbs. 6 oz. and was 18 inches long.
Doug was able to visit little Lacey in the hospital yesterday evening before heading out to Buckeye to watch his UFC fight. He said holding her in his arms brought back lots of memories of when the girls were that small...two and half years ago....my, oh my, where has the time gone?
AK & Roo cannot wait to see their Aunt Bobbi and new baby cousin (that's all they talked about yesterday). Although it will probably be a while so that Lacey doesn't get exposed to their germs, it will be interesting to see just how well they handle having a brand new baby around...you know, good practice for when we end up having a third somewhere down the road...the very distant road.
Doug was able to visit little Lacey in the hospital yesterday evening before heading out to Buckeye to watch his UFC fight. He said holding her in his arms brought back lots of memories of when the girls were that small...two and half years ago....my, oh my, where has the time gone?
AK & Roo cannot wait to see their Aunt Bobbi and new baby cousin (that's all they talked about yesterday). Although it will probably be a while so that Lacey doesn't get exposed to their germs, it will be interesting to see just how well they handle having a brand new baby around...you know, good practice for when we end up having a third somewhere down the road...the very distant road.
Just testing...
Sorry for the constantly changing header and layouts- I am experimenting with Photoshop. Thank you for your patience!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Confessions of a Terrible Mom
**The purpose of this post is nearly to vent my personal frustrations and feelings of inadequacy at being a mother...I am in no way trying to solicit extra praise or encouragement, nor am I attempting to convey a "woest me" attitude. Today is a day where I just feel seriously inept at being a mother..."
Okay, so I know in the past I have said that the purpose of this blog is to keep everyone posted on the happenings of our lives, and for the most part I try to remain upbeat and positive about everything. Today, however, I need to clear my conscience by stating....I am a very terrible mother and wife. Seriously, I really am!!
I have recently come to the realization that I am much too impatient and I yell too much. I don't spend enough time playing educational games or reading books, or giving each of the girls one-on-one time. I am lousy at keeping up with the laundry and dishes, let alone the dusting, sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming that get seriously neglected. I try to be patient and keep my cool with the girls, I really do! But it seems like the harder I try, the more I just bottle up inside until it gets to the point where all that pent up frustration and anger just erupts! Of course, who is going to bear the brunt of it when I finally do explode? Yup - the girls, because they are the two with whom I spend most of my time. And I know it's not fair to them, it's not fair at all. And usually, all it takes is for me to see how hurt or scared they are by my little outburst to realize just how unnecessary and childish it was for me to react like that. They are only two and half years old, for crying out loud - they're still learning and exploring and getting into mischief is part of their growing process. I know that, and I understand that....so why am I so quick to get so upset with them?
And how do all you other moms out there do it? I swear, most days it seems like I am the only mother in the entire state of Arizona who scolds or gets stern with her children. And, of course, it always seems like all the other children are perfectly behaved - sitting when they are told to, eating without question when food is given to them, and basically listening to any directions given to them by their mothers. SO, why can't I be like one of those moms? Why am I so quick to anger, so ineffective in teaching and instructing, and so slow to realize when my actions are completely uncalled for and out of line? I love AK and Roo more than anything in this world - more than even I understand, but yet, why is it so easy for me to get so frustrated and upset with them? They are the sweetest, most patient, forgiving, and loving girls...seriously, words do not explain just how inadequate I feel at being a mother, nor can I apologize or make up enough for getting as upset with them as I do at times. I feel absolutely lousy today...miserable and guilty for being such a terrible mother. They deserve better than what I have been giving them, but I really wonder if I am capable of doing anything better?
Okay, so I know in the past I have said that the purpose of this blog is to keep everyone posted on the happenings of our lives, and for the most part I try to remain upbeat and positive about everything. Today, however, I need to clear my conscience by stating....I am a very terrible mother and wife. Seriously, I really am!!
I have recently come to the realization that I am much too impatient and I yell too much. I don't spend enough time playing educational games or reading books, or giving each of the girls one-on-one time. I am lousy at keeping up with the laundry and dishes, let alone the dusting, sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming that get seriously neglected. I try to be patient and keep my cool with the girls, I really do! But it seems like the harder I try, the more I just bottle up inside until it gets to the point where all that pent up frustration and anger just erupts! Of course, who is going to bear the brunt of it when I finally do explode? Yup - the girls, because they are the two with whom I spend most of my time. And I know it's not fair to them, it's not fair at all. And usually, all it takes is for me to see how hurt or scared they are by my little outburst to realize just how unnecessary and childish it was for me to react like that. They are only two and half years old, for crying out loud - they're still learning and exploring and getting into mischief is part of their growing process. I know that, and I understand that....so why am I so quick to get so upset with them?
And how do all you other moms out there do it? I swear, most days it seems like I am the only mother in the entire state of Arizona who scolds or gets stern with her children. And, of course, it always seems like all the other children are perfectly behaved - sitting when they are told to, eating without question when food is given to them, and basically listening to any directions given to them by their mothers. SO, why can't I be like one of those moms? Why am I so quick to anger, so ineffective in teaching and instructing, and so slow to realize when my actions are completely uncalled for and out of line? I love AK and Roo more than anything in this world - more than even I understand, but yet, why is it so easy for me to get so frustrated and upset with them? They are the sweetest, most patient, forgiving, and loving girls...seriously, words do not explain just how inadequate I feel at being a mother, nor can I apologize or make up enough for getting as upset with them as I do at times. I feel absolutely lousy today...miserable and guilty for being such a terrible mother. They deserve better than what I have been giving them, but I really wonder if I am capable of doing anything better?
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Such a Tease
Cooler temps, intense winds, and possible thunder storms have brought a little bit of relief to the previous days scorching temps. I'd take the current conditions, storms and all, over what this summer is going to bring.
The girls and I attempted to get outside and enjoy the break in temperatures yesterday, but we didn't last long. After a few pretty powerful gusts of wind almost knocked each gal over, they decided they were "all done...all done mama!" SO, yesterday turned out to be a pretty chill day of reading books, doing puzzles, folding laundry, washing dishes, watching a movie or two, playing cars, coloring, and snuggling on the couch with my two beautiful girls. I tell ya...life doesn't get much better than that!
The girls and I attempted to get outside and enjoy the break in temperatures yesterday, but we didn't last long. After a few pretty powerful gusts of wind almost knocked each gal over, they decided they were "all done...all done mama!" SO, yesterday turned out to be a pretty chill day of reading books, doing puzzles, folding laundry, washing dishes, watching a movie or two, playing cars, coloring, and snuggling on the couch with my two beautiful girls. I tell ya...life doesn't get much better than that!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Blazing Temps and Now This...
Yup...the scorpions have struck again. Okay, well not literally struck (thankfully), but they are back. Apparently, scorpions do not like being outside in the triple digit temperatures any more than we humans do. I went into the downstairs bathroom this morning to brush my teeth after breakfast, and while I was at the sink AK came in behind me and says "Look mama, what is it?" Normally, she doesn't ask what things are, she tells (it's part of the whole "two years old" phase, I suppose) so her comment immediately caught my attention. I turned around to look where she was, and her tiny little finger was literally seconds away from getting stung by the biggest scorpion we have had at this house yet.
I panicked - yup - I actually screeched (which is something I rarely do). I grabbed AK real quick, shooed Roo out of the hallway, and grabbed the nearest shoe I could find (my trusty ol' flip-flop). Needless to say, that nasty little bugger didn't stand a chance against me or my flip-flop. Still, I am so irritated that a scorpion was in the house. We only have another month and half left here - couldn't it have waited until after we had moved out? I was seriously just starting to get comfortable again, not thinking we'd see any more, and then this nasty thing shows up. Needless to say, the girls beds have been moved away from the walls, the floors have thoroughly been swept and mopped, and we will now be wearing shoes at all times in the house. Nasty little things...they cause so much grief!
I am just grateful that neither AK or Roo were stung by the creepy critter. A trip to the ER would not have been a fun thing today.
I panicked - yup - I actually screeched (which is something I rarely do). I grabbed AK real quick, shooed Roo out of the hallway, and grabbed the nearest shoe I could find (my trusty ol' flip-flop). Needless to say, that nasty little bugger didn't stand a chance against me or my flip-flop. Still, I am so irritated that a scorpion was in the house. We only have another month and half left here - couldn't it have waited until after we had moved out? I was seriously just starting to get comfortable again, not thinking we'd see any more, and then this nasty thing shows up. Needless to say, the girls beds have been moved away from the walls, the floors have thoroughly been swept and mopped, and we will now be wearing shoes at all times in the house. Nasty little things...they cause so much grief!
I am just grateful that neither AK or Roo were stung by the creepy critter. A trip to the ER would not have been a fun thing today.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Are You Kidding Me?
So, we are only in May and already we have seen blasted triple digit temperatures. I am not a fan. Take a look at our lovely 7-day forecast as reported by Channel 12 News (azcentral.com).
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
108/78 109/78 103/77 89/73 86/66 90/66 92/68
108/78 109/78 103/77 89/73 86/66 90/66 92/68
Yup - the National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Advisory for Monday and Tuesday. Seriously - in May? You have GOT to be kidding me. I am already depressed for what this summer is going to bring...maybe it's time for us to move again...preferably far, far away from the scorching hot temperatures?
Thursday, May 15, 2008
400 Free Prints & 1 Free 8x8 Custom Cover Photo Book
**Okay, so I don't normally solicit my friends and family for Internet specials or offers, but I got this from a friend and I figured it was worth posting. I know the response has been overwhelming, and once the company reaches a certain number of print requests, they are going to cancel the offer...so, if you decide you want to sign up, you'll probably want to do it pretty quickly.**
There is a new online digital photo company called Artscow.com that is currently offering 400 Free Prints and 1 Free 8x8 Custom Cover Photo Book for new registrants to their website, just click Here to get started. Yes, that is correct.....FREE photo prints. All you have to do is click HERE to sign up and you will automatically receive 400 Free Prints. You can then earn additional print credits by selecting Promote Links to receive a custom link, which you would then post on your blog or facebook/myspace page or forward by email. For each person who joins artscow from your unique link and makes a purchase, you will receive 200 free credit points.
This is how it works....
It's a pretty decent website. I uploaded a bunch of my pictures yesterday, and even though the upload time seemed a little slower than other websites I've used in the past, I figure you really can't beat getting free prints. SO, for all those who enjoy getting free stuff just for signing up, go ahead and click HERE to begin enjoying this offer for 400 Free Prints and 1 Free 8x8 Custom Cover Photo Book.
Thanks! and Happy Printing!!
The Five Tag
I read this on another blog and thought it was kind of fun...hope you enjoy reading about the Fives (or multiples thereof) of my life!
10 years ago:
May 1998 - Let’s see, I was a junior at Upland High School and would have been preparing to go to prom with Ricky Lim - I was excited to go to the dance, but neither my date nor I were excited about going together. He wanted to go with someone else but was turned down, and the boy who I had a crush on at the time did not even know I existed. Oh well. My friend Casey let us tag along with her and her date, so after dinner at Burger King in Newport Beach, we went to the dance where I got ditched by my date...afterward, the three of us ended up having a totally awesome time. Also, I think I had just taken my AP Psychology exam (yuck) and I would have also been in the middle of Song (cheer) try-outs for my Senior Year…lots of hard work, but lots of fun.
5 years ago:
May 2003 - Doug was back from Utah and working in Costa Mesa as a Security System Salesman. I was living in the double-wide in Oceanside with Casey, working at Chick’s Sporting Goods and Southern California Beach Club. Doug and I were still just hanging out (we did not “officially” start dating until July 2003). My sister Cynthia was a month away from getting married, and I was finishing up with my Medical Assisting coursework at Palomar College.
5 months ago:
December 2007 - We had been in Arizona for 6 months and I was working evenings at Target. Doug was putting in long hours at UOP (which is still happening, but that’s besides the point). I started working as a PT Night Auditor for a hotel towards the end of December. All four of us had our birthdays the previous month - Doug’s on the 5th (27 years-old), mine on the 8th (26 years-old), and AK and Roo’s on the 25th (2 years-old) - so we were trying to think of fun, and affordable, things we could do for Christmas. We ended up staying in Arizona for the holidays, although we really would have liked to have been on the beaches of Oceanside.
5 Hours ago:
Doug and the girls and I went out for dinner (neither of us had to work tonight). Doug, Roo, and I ordered pizza (half cheese, half pepperoni) and a green salad, AK ate rice and chow mien from the Panda Express next door to the pizza parlor. We then went and looked at some mini vans at the dealership where Doug works part-time, then finished off the night with ice cream cones from Chick-fill-a. All-in-all, a very fun (and delicious) night!
5 things on my to-do list:
1. Homework
2. Empty the dishwasher
3. Pay bills
4. Go to Lowes and/or Home Depot to try and find the paint remover Cynthia recommended
5. Go through the stuff in the garage and sort things out for packing and [hopefully] a garage sale
5 snacks I enjoy:
1. Brownies
2. Ritz Baked Sour Cream and Onion Chips
3. Fresh-picked California Oranges
4. Yogurt (peach and vanilla are my favorites)
5. Big Stick Popsicles
5 things I would do if I were suddenly a billionaire:
1. Pay off all of our debt (credit cards, student loans, and cars)
2. Buy a home…in Oceanside…on the beach
3. Buy homes for all of our siblings…wherever they wanted…no strings attached
4. Travel, travel, travel
5. I would feel guilty if I did not donate to at least one or two charities
5 of my BAD habits:
1. Picking at zits (yes, I will admit to doing this - and I get a lecture from Doug every time)
2. Letting the dishes pile up in the sink before I get them loaded into the dishwasher
3. Not folding the clothes as soon as they come out of the dryer - they usually sit on the over-sized chair in the family room for a few days before I get around to folding them.
4. Letting this blog distract me from doing the homework I should be working on right now.
5. Drinking milk or juice straight out of the carton.
5 places I have lived:
1. Upland, CA
2. Oceanside, CA
3. Salt Lake City, UT
4. Islamorada, FL (it’s in the Florida Keys)
5. Chandler/Gilbert, AZ
5 jobs I have had:
1. Ice-cream scooper at Baskin-Robbins
2. Receptionist and Cashier at a motorcycle shop (Mountain Motor Sports)
3. Cafeteria dishwasher at BYU
4. Cashier/Keyperson/and Department Manager at Chick’s Sporting Goods
5. Being a MOM (this is by far the best, but most challenging, job of all)
5 things most people don't know about me:
1. I slept with “Pinky,” my pink teddy bear (it was a Christmas gift from my grandpa when I was a child), every night up until Doug and I were engaged
2. I usually only shave my legs once a week because I have really sensitive skin that breaks out in really bad (and painful) rashes
3. I have never had a sip of alcohol, never tried a cigarette, and have never taken illegal drugs
4. I can only sleep if I am wrapped up in a blanket - even if it’s 110 degrees at night
5. I have patches of skin across my chest and under my arm that are completely white because there is no pigmentation in those areas
**I am now supposed to "tag" five people to complete this same questionnaire on their individual blogs, but I figure since everyone is so busy with all the happenings in their lives, I would leave it open to anyone who has time to complete it**
10 years ago:
May 1998 - Let’s see, I was a junior at Upland High School and would have been preparing to go to prom with Ricky Lim - I was excited to go to the dance, but neither my date nor I were excited about going together. He wanted to go with someone else but was turned down, and the boy who I had a crush on at the time did not even know I existed. Oh well. My friend Casey let us tag along with her and her date, so after dinner at Burger King in Newport Beach, we went to the dance where I got ditched by my date...afterward, the three of us ended up having a totally awesome time. Also, I think I had just taken my AP Psychology exam (yuck) and I would have also been in the middle of Song (cheer) try-outs for my Senior Year…lots of hard work, but lots of fun.
5 years ago:
May 2003 - Doug was back from Utah and working in Costa Mesa as a Security System Salesman. I was living in the double-wide in Oceanside with Casey, working at Chick’s Sporting Goods and Southern California Beach Club. Doug and I were still just hanging out (we did not “officially” start dating until July 2003). My sister Cynthia was a month away from getting married, and I was finishing up with my Medical Assisting coursework at Palomar College.
5 months ago:
December 2007 - We had been in Arizona for 6 months and I was working evenings at Target. Doug was putting in long hours at UOP (which is still happening, but that’s besides the point). I started working as a PT Night Auditor for a hotel towards the end of December. All four of us had our birthdays the previous month - Doug’s on the 5th (27 years-old), mine on the 8th (26 years-old), and AK and Roo’s on the 25th (2 years-old) - so we were trying to think of fun, and affordable, things we could do for Christmas. We ended up staying in Arizona for the holidays, although we really would have liked to have been on the beaches of Oceanside.
5 Hours ago:
Doug and the girls and I went out for dinner (neither of us had to work tonight). Doug, Roo, and I ordered pizza (half cheese, half pepperoni) and a green salad, AK ate rice and chow mien from the Panda Express next door to the pizza parlor. We then went and looked at some mini vans at the dealership where Doug works part-time, then finished off the night with ice cream cones from Chick-fill-a. All-in-all, a very fun (and delicious) night!
5 things on my to-do list:
1. Homework
2. Empty the dishwasher
3. Pay bills
4. Go to Lowes and/or Home Depot to try and find the paint remover Cynthia recommended
5. Go through the stuff in the garage and sort things out for packing and [hopefully] a garage sale
5 snacks I enjoy:
1. Brownies
2. Ritz Baked Sour Cream and Onion Chips
3. Fresh-picked California Oranges
4. Yogurt (peach and vanilla are my favorites)
5. Big Stick Popsicles
5 things I would do if I were suddenly a billionaire:
1. Pay off all of our debt (credit cards, student loans, and cars)
2. Buy a home…in Oceanside…on the beach
3. Buy homes for all of our siblings…wherever they wanted…no strings attached
4. Travel, travel, travel
5. I would feel guilty if I did not donate to at least one or two charities
5 of my BAD habits:
1. Picking at zits (yes, I will admit to doing this - and I get a lecture from Doug every time)
2. Letting the dishes pile up in the sink before I get them loaded into the dishwasher
3. Not folding the clothes as soon as they come out of the dryer - they usually sit on the over-sized chair in the family room for a few days before I get around to folding them.
4. Letting this blog distract me from doing the homework I should be working on right now.
5. Drinking milk or juice straight out of the carton.
5 places I have lived:
1. Upland, CA
2. Oceanside, CA
3. Salt Lake City, UT
4. Islamorada, FL (it’s in the Florida Keys)
5. Chandler/Gilbert, AZ
5 jobs I have had:
1. Ice-cream scooper at Baskin-Robbins
2. Receptionist and Cashier at a motorcycle shop (Mountain Motor Sports)
3. Cafeteria dishwasher at BYU
4. Cashier/Keyperson/and Department Manager at Chick’s Sporting Goods
5. Being a MOM (this is by far the best, but most challenging, job of all)
5 things most people don't know about me:
1. I slept with “Pinky,” my pink teddy bear (it was a Christmas gift from my grandpa when I was a child), every night up until Doug and I were engaged
2. I usually only shave my legs once a week because I have really sensitive skin that breaks out in really bad (and painful) rashes
3. I have never had a sip of alcohol, never tried a cigarette, and have never taken illegal drugs
4. I can only sleep if I am wrapped up in a blanket - even if it’s 110 degrees at night
5. I have patches of skin across my chest and under my arm that are completely white because there is no pigmentation in those areas
**I am now supposed to "tag" five people to complete this same questionnaire on their individual blogs, but I figure since everyone is so busy with all the happenings in their lives, I would leave it open to anyone who has time to complete it**
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Under Construction
Please accept my most sincere apologies to all those who have been confused/annoyed/irritated or have simply wondered "what the heck is going on with that blog?" the past few days. I seem to have become obsessed with creating the perfect blog...you know, one that just screams "this is totally Hoopes" when you see it. I definitely think simplistic is best for us...as much as I like all the designs and backgrounds out there, none of them really fit all four of us. I see my sisters' and friends' blogs, and think they are just the cutest, coolest, most unique, totally clever and witty things around...and continually think ours is lacking. Yes, this is probably due to my innate feeling of inadequacy on anything I do, but HEY - I am working on overcoming that.
Anyways, the real point of this post was simply to say sorry for the different designs, templates, and layouts you may have seen over the past week. I am experimenting with HTML and web page coding, things that are totally foreign to me, so please excuse the mess while our blog is under construction...I will figure it all out eventually.
Playtime at the Park
One of AK and Roo's favorite places to go is the park. Generally, one of their first requests in the morning and often one of their last requests at night is "Mama, I want to go to park...play, play, play!" or "I like park...sisty like park. We go to park and play" (complete with hand guestures and all...it really is very cute).
Luckily, we have been fortunate to have had relatively cool weather the past few days (by cool, I mean in the high 80's as opposed to the high 90's or low 100's that are threatening this weekend's forecast) so we have been trying to cram in as much playtime as possible before the temperatures become unbearable.
Here are some pics from a recent trip to the playground at Tarwater Elementary, which could be a 3 minute walk from our house, but when you add in strollers, stuffed companions, and the frequent stops we make to look at rocks, flowers, and letters stomped in the concrete, it often takes closer to 15 minutes. I have to admit, at times I just want to get there and start playing so I can get back home and out of the heat, but then I am reminded by my beautiful 2 1/2 year old girls of all the little wonders in this world for granted.
I am thankful for AK & Roo...for their sweet spirits, for their love of life, and for the constant joy they find in the simplest of things. Here's to plenty more playtimes at the park, and all the memories they may bring.
Luckily, we have been fortunate to have had relatively cool weather the past few days (by cool, I mean in the high 80's as opposed to the high 90's or low 100's that are threatening this weekend's forecast) so we have been trying to cram in as much playtime as possible before the temperatures become unbearable.
Here are some pics from a recent trip to the playground at Tarwater Elementary, which could be a 3 minute walk from our house, but when you add in strollers, stuffed companions, and the frequent stops we make to look at rocks, flowers, and letters stomped in the concrete, it often takes closer to 15 minutes. I have to admit, at times I just want to get there and start playing so I can get back home and out of the heat, but then I am reminded by my beautiful 2 1/2 year old girls of all the little wonders in this world for granted.
I am thankful for AK & Roo...for their sweet spirits, for their love of life, and for the constant joy they find in the simplest of things. Here's to plenty more playtimes at the park, and all the memories they may bring.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)