The Happenings

.where we are.

2012-02-19T06:30:00.000-08:00

It's Saturday night, Finn is asleep, the kitchen is clean, and I finally have a moment it feels like to catch up and reflect on all the weeks happenings.
To start off, I hit a mile marker this week. I finally hit the 130's again on my weight. I haven't seen those numbers since before I was married. I started my sedentary job as soon as we got married and it seems to have all gone down hill since then. I've remained active, but didn't eat as well as I needed to...especially while I worked. Since being home with little man I have done fairly well, and I lost 10 pounds off my pre-pregnancy weight and have kept it off. But I had about 25 pounds to go to get to where I wanted to be before I got pregnant again. I decided I needed to kick it up a notch to get past this platue so this past week was a raw food week. Basically I ate mostly raw foods and veggies the whole week...no carbs...no meat...no sugar. I allowed myself a few indulgences like cooked veggies like squash, but pretty much it didn't do anything besides that. It's not easy, and I slipped probably more times then not without even realizing I had (I ate a slice of cheese while making Roy a sandwich, and a few crusts from Finn's sandwiches). But overall I followed through with my challenge, and it paid off with a break through into the 130's again. I fit in my smallest pair of jeans again, and that feels great, but I'm not done because I know those 20 pounds can come off if I'm consistent with my food and workouts.
Besides eating like a rabbit all week, we have been stressing out trying to get our mortgage refinanced. With interest rates as low as they have been we have been wanting to do this for awhile. Unfortunately, our FHA loan kind of had us stuck with a small second mortgage that had to be paid off first. We finally found someone who not only said he could do it, but he could do it right now. After all is said and done...our savings will be depleted, but we will be saving around $200 a month off our mortgage. Hopefully with all the money we will be saving we can build that savings up again.
As far as that little man of ours goes. He is walking quite good now and does it more often then not, but he still crawls if he falls at all. He also took his first spill down some stairs, which scared the crap out of me, but he doesn't seem to be worse for the wear. He loves dogs and cats and makes the woof woof sound when he sees one. I love hearing him jabber all the time now especially when he says "ohhhhh" at everything. Pointing is his new thing and he does it when he wants anything. I can't believe how grown up he seems to me now.
Busy weeks like these are good and productive, but I'm happy to have a Sunday to recover and prepare for our new week ahead of us.

.ok go.

2012-02-09T19:12:00.000-08:00

I can't say that I particulaily love the band OK Go. I saw them once in concert, and I didn't know who they were, but after watching their first video on the treadmills, I have to say that I absolutely LOVE their music videos.
The ideas that these guys come up with are so creative and witty, that you want to watch, re-watch, and then show them to everyone you know. They are just fun videos.Their Rube Goldberg video is another hitTheir latest hit is over the top and fun...I think you should watch, re-watch, and share with your friends.

.I suppose.

2012-02-06T14:18:00.001-08:00

I should say hi or something around these parts. Life feels quiet and busy all at the same time,does that make sense? It's one of this times where there is a lot going on, but it feels like more routine then anything. But updating is good for me to keep track of what's going on at this present moment-Tuesday nights are now free since I was released as webelos leader, and I have to say I really struggled with this calling. I felt like I gave it a bare minimum effort...sorry primary, my motivation was not there.-Finn is walking more and more, and seems to balance pretty good except when he gets excited.-I have been working out ridiculously for the past 2 weeks. Sad news I've only lost a pound. Good news, my clothes are getting loosey goosey so I know that it's paying off. -we made the hard decision to sell our beautiful black truck. We no longer needed for our timing business, and it had just become another expense that we didn't need. We are making cuts so that we can be more fiscally sound, and hopefully get ourselves into a position where we can progress in other areas of our lives. So for right now we are a one car, one bike family...and I guess in our case that is like having two cars.-Im having serious anxiety over doing taxes. I have to do three sets this year, and dreading doing all of them. I wish our good friend Chelsie was still here, and I would gladly pay to have her do them. -I was happy to see the Giants win last night, not because they're my team, but because I find the manning brothers to be so endearing.-roy's mom has been in the hospital for heart problems this past week. It's sad but not all that unexpected. We are hoping she listens to this wake up call and starts making healthier life choices.-there is one checkout lady I see every time I'm at the grocery store. I'm flattered in some ways because she knows me and Finn and always asks how we are doing and says hi even when we don't go through her line. But in other ways I'm thinking, maybe we hit the grocery store WAY too often.- I'm really wanting to do some painting in our bedroom, but I'm torn on how to spend my money, because I also need some new undies, and those aren't cheap. Is that weird that I'm debating over underwear or paint? On that note we will wrap up this update and hope for more exciting routines next time.

.mommy saturday.

2012-01-28T15:26:00.000-08:00

It's true what they say...Saturday's ARE a special day, and today was a momma and finn kinda Saturday, which makes it that much more special. Roy was out doing manly things, like camping outside in a UT January. Luckily it's been a mild winter, but still, I'll leave that one for the boys. The morning started out a little rough with Finn clinging to me like a little tree frog, because he did not trust the vacuum cleaner that had been left out. Why do you ask was the vacuum out? Well that has a little to do with a mischievous little boy who was left to his own devices while mom cooked breakfast. Perhaps Finn got a little peckish waiting for breakfast because he somehow managed to dump an entire container of fish food out. While Finn played with his eggs for breakfast I vacuumed that mess up, and then proceed to sweep up the majority of the eggs from the floor where Finn had so kindly thrown them.
After such a messy/clingy morning I think we both needed a restart. Finn hit the sack, and I hit the showers after working out. I'm always amazed at how the simple act of shaving my legs can make me feel like a new person. So here we are as new people: Finn freshly napped, and me freshly cleaned; and already it is better. We got out of the house and enjoyed the weather, Finn tried smarties for the first time and thoroughly enjoyed them, and Roy returned home safe and sound. He has left again to meetings, but he is home safe. So it is just Finn and momma again. Good thing finn is so good at entertaining.

its mostly me singing if your happy and you know it, but finn shows off his clapping skills, and even waves at the end...he looks towards our back porch because that's where daddy comes and goes.

.big and small things.

2012-01-20T21:48:00.000-08:00

I finally turned off the TV after I realized there wasn't much of anything worth watching. That's the good and bad about having basic tv...not a lot of options, but it limits your time wasted if you just choose to turn it off. Instead, I'm just choosing another medium to waste my time.
First off Finn: (he's the first of many things)

Today was another rough eating day for Finn. I don't think I would be as concerned if he was a little fatty, but because he's a little twig of a thing, I worry. Does this feel like this is the only thing I talk about anymore??? because it feels like its the only thing I think about anymore. Feel free to give advice, or ignore my first time mothering fears...it is what it is.
If I'm hating his food aversion, I'm absolutely loving his dancing. This kid boogies at the slightest hint of a tune, cracks me up.
Secondly, Roy:
I never actually posted about this, but he did sell his first business early last year, and started another one....check it out here http://kineticmotions.com/ . It seems to me that his mind is ever in the process of learning and doing new things.
We get lots more time with him now, because he served his time, and is done with the condo board. No more 11:00 pm phone calls about light bulbs being out, and other such rubbish.
Lastly, Me:
When life is going good, do you ever start to wonder, when something is going to stir it up? For example, we've lived in our house for nearly 5 years and haven't had any major problems (unless you count the great ant invasion of 2011). I keep thinking, "it's only a matter of time before something big like the water heater or the furnace go out." I probably just jinxed myself for saying that, but that's what I think. Life isn't easy for us right now, we are having to make lots of changes and adjustments. We have, and continue to go through growing pains in every facet of life, but I feel like more then anything we have been abundantly blessed, and I don't want that to change.

.happiness is.

2012-01-16T07:33:00.000-08:00

happiness is realizing I can do hard things...like giving birth to little Finn P with no pain medication, and going weeks sleep deprived because there are more imprortant things like making sure little man is fed and soothed.

happiness is watching that little man grow and learn new things through his first year like:
how to say dada, mama, baba, nana, and other jibberish
waving and finding noses, kittens, dogs, and belly buttons
rolling, crawling, and cruising around furniture
dancing, pointing, and playing hide and seek

happiness is finally having teeth to chew with...there are now offically 4, with molars in the line up as is apparent from all his ear pulling.

happiness is being a parent to a healthy happy little man, who loves and needs you more then anything else.

happiness is our one year old Finn

.the party.

2012-01-15T10:09:00.000-08:00

Your first birthday is a big deal, well at least for the parents...or in my case me. Roy would have been happy just to do something with just the 3 of us, but I insisted throwing something for family.
I simplified my original plans, mainly because I didn't want anything more to deal with. So we just did dessert and gifts, but it was just perfect.

The spread

cupcakes on homemade cake stands...thanks to my sister Holly

Finn P loves taking things out of bags

really mom?

he really wanted that candle

not sure about the cupcake

the frosting is pretty good

not bad

sugar is good

We are so blessed with wonderful family that cares so much for us and supports us in everything we do. It was wonderful to share a year of celebration with the people we love the most.
After our fill of sugar and conversation we headed home for dinner and much needed sleep. We also discovered that we could feed little man more cupcakes...

He still lacks the girth to hold onto his pants when he is pulled out of the walker.
What a grand day to celebrate our little Finn!

.what life feels like lately.

2012-01-11T08:20:00.000-08:00

Does anyone else look like this after dinner?

notice the nice big chunks of food in his hair, and yes the ever constant stream of teething snot

This isn't going to be a problem is it mom?

Along with his new found picky eating habits has also come the desire to get food everywhere!! I do manage to get a bit of food into his mouth before he decides to spit, throw, and smear his food like a little Picasso.
I feel like this is our life right now, I clean up one mess only to turn around to find another one being made by this little Tasmanian Devil. He loves everything in the kitchen right now, whether it's the Tupperware closet, dishtowel drawer, broom, filing cabinet, or the trashcan, he wants it. Today I'm determined to get to the store and arm myself with some child-proofing equipment to keep him out of some of those drawers, and perhaps give myself less to clean up. Along with all his curious mess making, he is teething something awful! He has been one onery cuss...and I say that with all the love in my heart. I'm trying, despite all his grumpy, messy, clingy-ness, to focus on all the wonderful blessings we have...and it certainly helps. But there are just days you are going to be overwhelmed and done at 10:00 in the morning.

.for old times sake.

2012-01-01T18:24:00.000-08:00

So long 2011, you are now another year past and gone. We rang in 2012 by retiring early for two main reasons: 1-Roy goes to bed before 11 nearly every night...he gets ornery and not much fun...its just how it is. 2-Finn doesn't care what time we go to bed, he's up at 7:00 or, in our case, 6:30 today. Am I the only parent who thinks this way? I say this because, everyone I talked to stayed up, even with babies that wake up early. Maybe I'm just an oldie or I care too much about sleep, but I'm going to wait until my kids are a bit older to stay up and ring in the new year.
But here is what we did to enjoy our early night in.
We made pizza and baked it on my new pizza stone. It was a bubbly crispy mess of goodness.

Roy was stoked to use the GIANT spatula he got with the pizza stone, I mostly just enjoyed how stoked he was about it.

We enjoyed out pizza with some martinellis and watched a movie, and then we said goodnight to 2011.
Here are other things being enjoyed around here:
The dishwasher: Finn has radar for dish time, because it means he gets to play with all the dirty utensils, and spinning fan.
Haircuts: This picture shows some of Finn's crazy locks...especially around his ears. Grandma trimmed while I held. He looks less like a rag-a-muffin, and more like a little boy now.

Dump Trucks: This toy gets pushed around daily

Wranglers: These pants are so big on the skinny little dude that we have to roll them up, and he doesn't have much holding them up, but he looks so irresistibly cute, that we wear them regularly.

Garbage cans: Don't know what the attraction is, but Finn can't seem to get enough of the trashcan. Here he is checking out the discarded martinelli's bottle. Needless to say, the garbage is outside a lot.

As you can see life is wonderfully enjoyable around here, we have been blessed immensely this past year and can see the hand of the Lord in all of our successes, struggles, and ultimately our growth, and we put our trust and faith in him for the coming year.

.Christmas cars, and teeth.

2011-12-27T10:11:00.000-08:00

Christmas came and went without much of a fuss here. Finn opened a single gift (matchbox cars), and that was that. The rest of his gifts went unnoticed until the next day, where I proceeded to open them up

But thank goodness for those little cars of his, because poor Finn has decided that he would like some teeth, and they are coming in full force.

look at those tired eyes...but he has a car so he's happy

He has been a miserable mess of snot and drool for the past 4 days with a fever hovering between 99 and 101. I've been trying very diligently to get Finn to take Motrin/Tylenol, but he has also gotten very good at spitting out everything that goes in his mouth. That includes even his favorite foods like applesauce, carrots, oatmeal, and yogurt. Luckily he is still downing his bottles well. He is easily finding sympathy to his cause through his nearly constant whisperings, and his sleepy little eyes. One positive to it all is all his cuddliness. He wants to be held and snuggled almost as much as he wants to play with his cars, and of course I indulge him, because I love his snuggling too.
Along with the 2 new teeth came a raspy little cough that has lingered and gotten progressively worse. So after another 4 am night, I made an appointment to see Dr. Buchanan and hopefully get some relieve for our sad little man.
Besides our sick boy, we had a wonderful holiday with family and friends, and we feel truly blessed!!!

.old roomies, fresh powder, and a little momma.

2011-12-22T17:32:00.000-08:00

I look forward to this time of the year not only because of Christmas, but because people are in town that aren't usually. Today I got a chance to hang out with 2 of my favorites, the Child sisters...although Carla now has a different last name, I will forever call them that.

Carla, me,& Colette

We got out and enjoyed the fresh air of the mountains with a little snowshoe outing. It was a perfect day...we finally had some fresh snow, and the sun was out with beautiful blue skies.

We hiked our way up to doughnut falls, which aren't so doughnutty anymore with an abundance of rock in the falls, but it was still a fun hike. We were the first ones on the trail and we only saw a few people on our way out.

Me & Colette

Carla & Colette in front of the falls

We laughed, reminisced, caught up, and just had an all round good ol' time. I sure do love these ladies!!
As a bonus to the day, when Finn and I got home he started saying momma. It's melting my little heart!

.a few of my favorite things...at present.

2011-12-20T13:47:00.000-08:00

With the business of Christmas in full swing, I was thinking about some of my "favorite" things in my life right now.

Stretchy ribbon: this stuff is simply a pleasure to tie packages up with. So much more forgiving then traditional ribbon. Try it you won't be disappointed.

Christmas cards: the mail is wonderful, but even more so when it's filled with actual letters...not just junk mail. Having all these beautiful cards from wonderful friends and family, made me realize my mistake in not sending any out this year. There will be cards next year from the hoffmans.

Losing weight: even with all the Christmas goodies being shoved in our faces, ice cream in the freezer, and birthday dinners...my pounds have failed to stay around in fact I'm down again this week. I'm still a good 20 lbs from were I really want to be, but if I can keep it off during this month, then I might have a promising new year.

Scentsy(autumn sunset): this aroma is currently filling my house, and making me feel nostalgic. It's the goodness of winter smells all rolled into one!

Rocking baby boy Finn to sleep: I'm finally getting some good use out of my rocking chair since Finns birth. Because of how I nursed Finn I could never really rock that boy to sleep. But now that he's a complete bottle feeder, we spend our nights rocking and singing. Nursing was special, but this is wonderful too, and I'm glad I get these moments with him.

I have more, but as usual when you get down to writing them out the memory fades.

.11, can it be.

2011-12-15T08:28:00.000-08:00

My heart is breaking just a little bit to think that this little boy of mine is nearly a year old.

It's just one of those truths in life that kids grow up too fast. We are looking forward to spending our first Christmas together with our very own little dude. Shopping is a breeze for him since we just see what he gets excited about in the store and throw it in the cart...ha ha ha, lets just say the theme this year is all about cars.
At 11 months, Finn is still not walking, but he gets around very well with crawling and scaling furniture. He mostly says dadadadadadadada, but he also throws in a few gagagagag's and nanananan's for good measure. Sadly no mama's yet. So he's not much of a talker yet, but he does understand simple commands like, "get your doggie", and "bring it here/come here". Something that we can't get enough of is all of his animation. When he gets excited he gibbers, squeals, throws his arms around, and occasionally growls. He also loves to dance when he hears any tunes...so FUN! Finn is still completely fascinated by circles, he can spot them on anything and loves touching them. Another thing that Finn insists on doing is turning on and off his light as he gets up from sleeping. He figured out what mom and dad were doing and now wants to do it before leaving his room.

I weaned Finn about 2 weeks ago, which turned out to be emotionally harder then I thought it would be, but I can tell since supplementing Finn with formula along with solids, he has started chubbing up again. Welcome back rolly thighs, momma missed you.
Sleeping is wonderful...2 full naps, and 11 hr nights makes for both happy baby and happy mommy!
With one final month left, Finn is one happy, curious, dancing, moving, growing little boy, and we love him!

.we all need love.

2011-12-05T14:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday while sitting at church I noticed a beautiful thing that changed my perspective. There is a family in our ward who have started coming back to church. They have a couple young boys, who I call the wild boys because they often run around with no supervision and create havoc. I understand more and more the reason why these boys act the way they do after seeing how their father disciplines them, but I still have a tendency to be annoyed at the behavior of these boys. So there we are sitting in church watching these young boys run around the chapel. They ran up to the front where another family was sitting. Instead of the mother ignoring them, or showing the boys back to their bench, she picked up one of the boys and just held him. And there he sat the whole time just being held by this awesome mom of six while his brother chilled on the pew next to them. It occurred to me that those boys are just looking for love...they crave it! They don't need to judged and pushed onto somebody else who can deal with them, they just need the positive attention that love brings. It really opened my eyes and humbled me to see this, already flustered mother, take the time to give these two wild boys what they want more then anything...LOVE.

.lights.

2011-12-05T14:14:00.000-08:00

The last few times we've made it down to Temple square it has been soooo packed, and I get so flustered with the crowds that we just end up rushing through without enjoying the lights at all. So this year I wanted to hit the lights earlier in the season to better enjoy. The young men had planned to go on Wed this past week so Finn and I just tagged along. In hindsight, I would have gone earlier and as our own family because Finn was just a zombie the whole night, and there was a lot of waiting because we have teenage kids that needed to be corralled. Oh well, the lights were beautiful, and the crowds were so small it was wonderful!

This was how Finn chilled the whole time, bundled and slightly eschewed in the baby bjorn

I love this red tree

.randomnicity.

2011-11-29T10:24:00.000-08:00

Crazy to think that we are in the last few days of November...another year is drawing to a close...wow!
As fast as time is flying I thought I would just post some of the radomness that has been happening.

-We had a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday surrounded by lots of family. Thursday we did dinner with my whole family, which is a feat in and of itself. I'm so blessed to have these amazing people in my life and call them my own. I never got the joke about people hating to be with their family during the Holidays...oh well. Friday we had our second Thanksgiving with the Lamberts, which is just such a fun thing to do. As always they made the best food in the entire world, of which I ate entirely too much. Love our families!!

-Christmas is getting into full swing around here now. We finally got our tree last night...which is a few days too long in my book. This is my favorite place in the house right now, and will be until the end of December.

-I love getting short trees because I can reach everything when I'm decorating...even the star on top.
-These are my two new favorite decorations... a wreath I made out of peppermint candies

and Finn's ornament of choice...red jingle bells. As you can see it doesn't stay on the tree much.

-Finn has also found other uses for the many boxes that have been pulled out for the decorating process. Like using them to get to even more things...he was turning the pages of the piano books.

-I've started what seems like a dozen projects and have yet to finish one of them. I'm feeling slightly flustered by that fact.

-With being so busy I also forgot that this is my 30th birthday year. Roy was so kind to remind me how old I was getting last night. I might have had a slight panic attack at the thought of leaving my twenties in the dust...its been a good decade!

-Roy is in charge of decorating for our ward Christmas party this year, which in turn means I'm in charge of helping. What he needs is lights...lots of them, but as one would suspect most people are using their lights this time of year. I shot down his idea of buying all new lights at our expense so he went a different route. Can I tell you how much I love KSL classifieds. Roy scored tons of lights last night for free from an older lady. Roy couldn't believe the steal, so he helped her out with a few things around the house for payment. What a service on both ends, we got our lights, and she got some company!

-I've been playing with the idea of doing Christmas Cards this year, but I can't justify the expense...am I a humbug or what???

-I'm so done with washing bottles lately. Dishes are not a problem, but the bottles are driving me nuts.

-The weather had been wonderful, but I really want to see some snow flying soon.

There it is....random thoughts and happenings from the family Hoffman.

.shower ninja.

2011-11-20T15:57:00.000-08:00

This little guy (who is orange, even if he looks yellow), is what I like to call our shower ninja.

He perches up on our shower shelf and has since our first year of marriage. His origins have passed into obscurity for neither Roy or I can tell you where he came from or why he's up on the shower ledge, but there he stays...for neither Roy or I have ever felt inclined to move him.

.little shoes.

2011-11-20T15:50:00.000-08:00

Few things are better then little feet, but little feet in these guys...

oh and they squeak when he walks in them *sigh* so sweet!!!

.i love technology, and healthy babies.

2011-11-18T20:49:00.000-08:00

Among the many tech gadgets cluttering up our house, one of our favorites is the i-pad. It's Roy's, but I think I end up using it more then he does. Today I used it to look up some yummy recipes and made my up my grocery list for the week.

oh and this is what a sick little boy looks like...mostly just more sensitive, really red cheeks that came with his fever, and a raw little nose to boot, but still playing with his fish as you can see.

.snowy night.

2011-11-18T20:42:00.000-08:00

We have been distracted around these parts with a sick little boy. I sure do hate when that little blue eyed boy is not feeling well. Anyways, this is the best I could do with a slow shutter speed shot. It's not much, but the snow that is falling makes it look beautiful none the less.

Those dang street lights give everything a yellowish hue.

.10 means double digits.

2011-11-16T09:38:00.000-08:00

Finn,
It's true, you have entered the double digits of life, and suddenly you are so grown up. You have discovered that crawling is not the only thing you can do to get around. You climb up on everything

and have started scaling the furniture to move. Your personal favorites are the piano bench, because you can tap out a little diddy with the keys, and, much to my dismay, the TV stand...I've got to find a better place for our movies now.

a few of your favorite things: toothpaste tube for chewing, and a box to sit in

You're still so small 9month pants are worn old man style

You have started imitating us more and more, especially with clapping and toy playing. That has been some of my favorite things about this age is that I can see all the learning your doing. You also make some of the greatest faces I've ever seen...especially when eating. You do this one where you try to close your eyes, but keep them open ever so slightly so you can still see what's going on. I need to capture it on film so you can enjoy it when you get older.
You still eat amazing, but when you're either full or you don't like what I'm feeding you protest by scraping the food off your tongue with you gums or just by plain old spitting. Thanks for the dinner entertainment.
Other things that bring entertainment are animals, dogs and fish in particular. We caved and bought a tank full of fish for you to gaze at, and we haven't been disappointed. It keeps is all entertained watching you watch the fish.

We are getting excited about celebrating the holidays with you

Our friend Wendy who did our family photos needed a little model for a Holiday promotion she is doing. If you want some great photos, check her out.

even if you wont know fully what's happening, and we look forward to many more together as a family.
Happy 10 months baby boy!!!

.trying to catch my shadow.

2011-11-16T09:07:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite places to hang out in the morning because the sun is so inviting and warm, and provides a good way to see a silhouette.

.eyes.

2011-11-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

You can't imagine how hard it is to get a decent picture of your own eyes.

.12 fish & a finn.

2011-11-14T18:32:00.000-08:00

I was going to do a very elaborate picture with me and 13 things that describe me, but as it turns out, I just didn't have the energy to make it happen today. So instead you get...

Finn and his tank of 12 goldfish. He has been standing at that tank all day jabbering at those fish telling them who knows what. It also takes his interest away from the tv stand, giving me a break from taking him away from that. It's made for a wonderful day.

.sunset.

2011-11-14T18:22:00.000-08:00

Sunrise in the valley of the Goblins

I totally copped out on this one. I miss calculated my sunset time yesterday, and didn't get anything worth sharing so I'm sharing an oldie, but a goodie. I'm also cheating because this is actually a sunrise, but it's so beautiful even being captured with a crap phone camera. ENJOY!

.blue.

2011-11-12T17:57:00.000-08:00

I had a college professor that graded papers in blue instead of red because he said that blue was psychologically more calming. I don't know if that is true or not, but I do like seeing blue.

If you guessed aquarium rocks...then yes, you were right. That's right we bought some fish because as it turns out...Finn likes fish. He also likes dogs, but since we don't have a place for a dog right now, fish it is.

.who needs a cup.

2011-11-11T08:12:00.000-08:00

Growing up in my house we learned a lot of things and we did a lot of things. I remember the big events and holiday traditions we did, but what surprises me are some of the simple things I remember. Like when we would sleep in as kids my mom was notorious for the flipping on and off the lights...and if that didn't work we got the spray bottle. Or the songs my mother would sing to me as a child, I know I'm not the only one of my sisters that sang them for their babies. But those memories are somewhat intangible. Then I remember Mason Jars.

My mother always canned delicious foods for us to enjoy during the long winter months, but during the summer those jars had another purpose...watering her offspring. Instead of cups my mom would fill Mason jars and request that they be drunk in the span of a few hours only to be filled and drained again in a few hours. I myself use a glass or a water bottle nearly every time, but Mason jars of water can still be found on the counter tops of my parents kitchen...and that is simply how it is.

.love somebody.

2011-11-11T07:56:00.000-08:00

The love that I get to spend most of the day with is him. Whether it's cruising around in the walker, helping cook, or stuffing our faces with yummy waffles there is never a shortage of smiles and love!

LOVE you baby boy Finn!

.bad habit.

2011-11-09T19:01:00.000-08:00

I thought of taking a picture of my sink full of dishes, or my laundry basket of unfolded clean clothes, and even my amazing skill of stacking the kitchen garbage to extreme heights because if Roy's not home it rarely gets taken out. But instead I took a picture of something that I see on regular basis that drives me CRAZY!

The CARTON DRINKER....aghhh

.red.

2011-11-08T15:20:00.000-08:00

These red apples were so beautiful I couldn't resist buying a few. I've never bought produce mearly on looks alone, but last Monday I did. I'm usually a golden delicious or gala apple girl myself, but these little reds were beautiful and yummy.

.look out below.

2011-11-07T19:26:00.000-08:00

Finn through the blades of grass...reminds me of "Honey I Shrunk the Kids" movie.

.looking down on the world.

2011-11-06T16:48:00.000-08:00

Its been one of those Sundays...sunrise to sunset...you know what I mean. We just barely got a moment to sit down and relax, or in our case, rough house with daddy.

Even on busy Sundays, we have to make a little time for trucks and some WRASLI'N.

.something green.

2011-11-05T09:38:00.000-07:00

I love plants, but more specifically, hearty ones. Why??? because I have a tendency to kill them off all too easy. My sister gave me a sweet Ficus plant that is going strong, and Roy has gifted me two cacti, because they are the most resilient of all. But this is a little plant that I bought myself. I saw it this morning and knew I had to capture all of its glorious greenery.

Thriving life against the stark white of the first real snow fall of winter...beautiful!

.i really don't know clouds at all.

2011-11-04T15:03:00.000-07:00

If it wasn't for the fact that leaves scattered the ground it would have felt like spring today. It was warm with nary a cloud in the sky. But we have been adequately warned for the upcoming cold storm approaching tonight so Finn and I knew we had to enjoy it while it lasted. I went out with camera in hand planning on taking some cloud pictures, but as previously stated they were few and far between. So instead I snagged a few shots of the little man trying out some leaves.

Don't worry though, those dark clouds rolled in this afternoon and so I snapped a shot. What an ominous gray sky it is with these clouds.

.what will you wear today.

2011-11-03T08:43:00.000-07:00

I thought I would really class the place up today and put on some of my best duds...or at least most comfortable. I'm stuck inside today watching Finn and our neighbors little Lilly. This is my day of the week to lounge a bit as I only get stuff done if they BOTH are sleeping. So comfort clothes it is:

You almost can't beat a pair of great jeans for comfort....almost. Pair it with some floppy sandals, and an old worn Tee and that is what I'm wearing today.

.maybe.

2011-11-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

I want to try something different around here for a bit. I'm never creative enough to come up with this stuff on my own, I've always been like that...even with drawing. I could never come up with a picture idea in my head, but if I saw something I liked I would try and copy to the best of my abilities. So in that fashion, my friend Hayley posted this, and I want to try it.

Now I'm in no way a photographer, so more likely than not I will just end up with some crap pictures, but we will see...it might be interesting.

enjoying some quiet sun time

.on this, the first of november.

2011-11-01T10:35:00.000-07:00

It's snowing outside....it's crazy to think that yesterday it was nearly 70 degrees and sunny. I wore flip flops and a hoodie, which felt nearly as perfect as the weather. Today it's wool socks and layers, but I guess that's one of the things I love most about the weather here in UT...all the extremes and ups and downs, always changing.
With all the dreary weather the day is calling for some cleaning, lots of playing, and warm food.

.october.

2011-10-29T12:12:00.000-07:00

Isn't October wonderful??? Of course as a child Halloween was pure magic...dress up and candy all in one, but the other reason was because my mother loved the holiday. She claimed it was because it was less commercialized than Christmas or Easter, but whatever the reason she got behind this autumnal celebration. I guess it stuck with the rest of us, because my family still loves Halloween. This past week has kept us busy with last minute costumes, pumpkin carving, carnivals, and harvest parties. so lets get to it.

Pumpkin Hunting at the patch

Our headless horseman pumpkin

scary bath hair....bwahhhhhhh!

We had a ward Halloween carnival on Wed. Roy was there all night with the young men so Finn and I went to keep him company for awhile. Finn was a big hit in his gnome costume!

Friday was our annual Sullivan Halloween party. I undertook the organization of it this year, which actually turned out fairly easy after dividing up all the responsibilities. We started off playing a few games like who's your Zombie, and Dia de los Muertos bingo, and sharks and minos.

playing an intense game of dia de los muertos

our little family all costumed up: Finn the lawn gnome, Roy the DI, and me as a half done version of Medusa

After the games, we had a proper harvest dinner in the barn. Following dinner there was a small impromptu dance while grandpa readied the hayride. I wish I had got a picture of all of us enjoying that...so much fun!

While we were out riding the hay, Roy and the boys built a stunning bonfire. We probably violated every fire code in the city, but I'm glad we did. The fire blazed so hot for awhile that we even had to go outside the ring to enjoy it.

The boys sitting up on the fence watching the blazing inferno

After the fire had burned down we could return inside the ring, and roast some mallows for some smores.

We finished the night off as always watching The Legend of Sleepy Hallow. We always have such a great time together as family...I'm truly blessed!

Also this past week I finally decided that we needed to get some family photos before our little nugget turns one...I think they turned out stellar! Thanks Wendy for all the wonderful photos of my little family!!

.9 feels like nothing.

2011-10-18T16:24:00.000-07:00

Finn,
Baby boy you're 9 months, and somedays it feels like its only been a week. I wonder why that is because you have changed so much in these 9 short months. You have really taken off this past month...literally...you are crawling everywhere. I had stopped even caring when you would get onto all 4's thinking, "you're just going to fall again", and suddenly, just like that, you were crawling. We didn't get much of the sitting and playing contently stage, but I don't think that it's in your nature to sit still very long. Despite what everyone has said about it getting harder when babies become mobile, I have really enjoyed watching you explore your ever growing world...it's fantastic actually! Now that you're moving around you can make it to your new favorite objects, WHEELS. Of all the new things you have access to, you always go directly to the office chair just so you can sit and touch the wheels.
We are still nursing around these parts, as well as feeding you as much as you will take in, but despite our best efforts you are just destined to be small. You weighed in at 15.1 today at your check up...putting you below the charts, but luckily still growing in your own small way.
We love this stage...we love that you sleep though the night, and take hard core naps. We love that you stick your tongue out constantly. We love that you splash like a maniac in the tub. We love that you have an orange nose because you love squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, & peaches We love that you kick, KiCk, KIcK, and KICK all the time (might explain why you weigh so little). But most of all we just love you!

.becoming soft.

2011-10-17T13:57:00.000-07:00

While driving home from Millcreek Canyon on Sat. I was relating to Roy the story of my first and only flat tire. I was driving my wonderful roomates old beater up to Logan, which I always did because she hated driving. There we were...two girls,in dresses mind you, on the side of the free way. While Emily made sure I was taken care of(giving me a pillow case to kneel on), I got to work getting the car jacked and lug nuts taken off. Whenever I tell that story, I feel incredibly independent...like "check out my mad skills...in a dress none the less". That was me in college, killing bugs, changing light bulbs...you know, really HARD stuff, but I did it on my own...almost like I had to prove something. I made the comment to Roy, that I'm getting soft. Soft in the sense that I go running to Roy if there's a spider that needs to be squashed, or a light bulb changed. And it's not because I can't do it, it's just easier for Roy to do it. What's happened to me? Am I done proving myself or something? Or maybe I'm just proving myself in other ways...???

.a finn and his dog.

2011-10-03T14:44:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that he LOVES dogs?

.fall weekends.

2011-10-03T14:35:00.000-07:00

I'm so completely stoked for autumn to be here! I wish I could capture all the wonderful changes of this season and keep it for whenever I get caught in the winter and summer doldrums. We finally got a chance to take a small hike on Sunday up Butterfield, we rolled the windows down and breathed in the mountains and fall.

I was sad to see the weekend coming to an end, even in such a fashion, for weekends are our time to be together. And conference weekends allow us to be together even more. We worked, we rested, we played, we talked, we listened, and we learned a little more. Fall and conference...what a wonderful combination for a weekend.

Oh and just because I can...sweet pics of our little guy

There is something about his bottom lip that he just can't get enough of

See what I mean...always sucking on it

Unless he's smiling because he's in a hammock with daddy

Or just being cheeky!!!

.autumn harvest, and other bid-nez.

2011-09-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

a small portion of the goods canned

I feel like I've been running. running. running for the past few days, and have just now had a moment to breathe. In an effort to domesticate myself, I have been gathering and canning fruit for the coming months. Growing up, I always loved having canned fruit to indulge in, even in winter. Mom would delegate certain days for canning and employ as many kids as she could to help. Mom, how did you do it??? Seriously, how did you do it. It's a ton of work that is hot a laborousom, and if you have young kids in the mix...forget about getting it done on any schedule. Thankfully, my sisters were there to keep it fun, and ultimately I feel so good looking at all that deliciousness in my cupboards.
On top of canning, life is just plain BUSY! It feels like some days are just survival mode where there is no time for extras like eating, showering, or cleaning. I laugh at myself a bit, because I think..."hunny you've got 1 child...count em...1, and you don't work, do you think it gets any easier??? it won't, so you need to learn how to deal with life, or you're not going to make it."
At least today I feel like I've collected myself a bit and have been able to put some order back into my life...and that feels wonderful. So I'm going to sit and catch my breathe, and get ready for the next wave of life.

.rewind.

2011-09-27T20:00:00.000-07:00

Have you every gone back and re-read your old journals? If you haven't, you should. I spent the past few days Reading my journals and I have to say it's slightly embarrassing and entertaining.
I should really start writing, like really writing a journal again, because let's face it something's are better left to pens and paper.

.2 is better then 1.

2011-09-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of fall, and for that I'm excited, but today also brought in a head cold for this momma. I wanted to spend the day in bed sleeping and doing nothing, but instead I got up did our morning routine with the little nugget, cleaned both bathrooms...including the shower which is probably my least favorite chore in the entire house, watered the flowerbed, and swept the porches. After doing all that productivity I felt like I had earned some downtime. Of course Finn had other plans. He opted for a short nap and one very long afternoon for me. I was so happy when Roy walked through the door! He fed our son and then took him on a long long long run so that I could take a nap. While I put Finn down, he got dinner, because we all know Roy does not cook. So while I'm enjoying my Village Baker soup and cranberry juice with lime, I'm thinking how grateful I am to be doing this with a partner. Because when I'm run down and need a break, Roy is there to pick up the slack and take long long long runs with his little dude so that his little wife can center herself again. I'm happy we're a pair!

.what's so great about 8.

2011-09-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

"pistol pete" Finn,

yes that is drool, bibs have become a constant.

We are absolutely loving life at 8 months with you! You are such an active kid, that is completely curious about the world around you. It seems that you have finally discovered animals, and boy kid, you love those animals. Just this morning over at the Meltons you were squealing with delight over Jupiter the Space donkey. Even a few licks and wacks to the head from his wagging tail, didn't diminish your excitement.

don't let the face fool you...you love it...promise

You also get pretty stoked about your dad. But who wouldn't with all the play time and energy dad brings. He is greeted everyday with a bright smile and enthusiastic kicks and squirms. He of course can't get enough of you.
You are sitting like a pro, but you also like to explore by rolling around the floor, and going after favorite toys which include: tags on your stuffed animals, books, binks...just for chewing mostly, remotes, and of course our cell phones...you can spot those a mile away.
You LOVE solid food, and always want to taste what's going into our mouths. You eat almost anything, but you especially enjoy yogurt and green beans. And now that you eat 3 solid meals a day on top of nursing you are actually starting to gain and grow. It seems like this past week you have suddenly decided to gain some elevation. We have had to adjust you walker to a higher setting, and have switched the harness in the running stroller to the next level.

it might be just me, but I think these slipper socks are about the cutest
thing ever!

My favorite things that you do right now: high pitched squeals, clapping, playing with my hair, sing to yourself in the morning, raspberries-ALL THE TIME, and just the fact that you're legs seem to be in a constant state of motion.
Love you little Finn!!

.our labors, a birthday, and a pound.

2011-09-08T10:44:00.000-07:00

We've had ourselves some busy days around here lately. What would labor day be without a bit of laboring on a few family projects. My mom and dad decided to utilize the brothers and brothers-n-law to do some serious demolition in the my parents back yard. The deck that we built when we moved into the house and the retaining wall had to go.

While the men-folk were in the yard, I was laboring on a birthday gift for Roy...really my sister Holly labored while I watched and learned. Although Roy needs another shirt like he needs a hole in the head I couldn't help myself.

Don't worry if you don't get it...I only know because I married myself a runner. Fartlek is a running workout that just so happens to sound like a slightly offensive term. I may have enjoyed it more then Roy...just saying. After the required tasks were done, we feasted on burgers, fresh corn from the garden, and bite sized pieces of watermelon.

This is what happens when you leave Kay to cut watermelon

Tuesday, Roy's 28th birthday rolled along. I was simply in a rubbish mood all day...very melancholy, and subdued. I tried really hard to get excited, and I nearly did when I purchased Roy's gift and something extra for super cheap because there was a sale, but even my giant birthday cookie couldn't break my mood. Finally, after weeblos, and the condo board meeting Roy told me to go to our stake women's volleyball night. I almost didn't want to go because I was late, and lets face it feeling sorry for myself, but wouldn't you know it was just what I needed. When I arrived home Roy said, "you had a good time didn't you." Yes Roy, you were right, I had a good time, and got myself out of my funk. What a crappy day for Roy...getting old and having to put up with your wife's sub-optimal attitude. Lucky for me I married a guy who could care less about birthdays, and even felt like I set the bar high for him.
Now after all the busy-ness of the week here we are at Thursday. Today was Finn's big weigh in since his last appointment he didn't gain a single ounce. The Dr. and I were very pleased to see a gain of a pound for our little Mr putting him at a whopping 14lb 3oz at 7 months.

We don't mind that he's off the chart as long as he is growing. Way to gain a whole pound Mr. Finn! Other then his little weight issue, he is doing just amazing, and getting bigger in so many other ways.
With such a busy week, I'm looking forward to another weekend already!

.sometimes.

2011-08-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

It's nearly noon, and I'm not dressed or ready for the day. In my defense though, I did take on the bathrooms and the basement cleaning today. I figured it would defeat the purpose of getting ready by scrubbing toilets and sinks, and crawling around mopping floors. Strangely enough though, I still feel a bit lazy for not having myself put together before noon.

When did my body get old? It seems like I feel it almost everyday. Things take longer to heal and my joints ache (not just muscles) after work outs. I have to be very diligent about stretching...which I never have. This week something went no bueno in my neck and now I'm moving my whole body to turn my head. I told Roy, "It's been 3 days, why doesn't it feel better?" to which he replied that it just takes time for your body to heal. I miss you young body, come back!

I'm lazy when it comes to laundry. Sure I separate colors and whites, and do some spot treating, but for the most part I just throw and go. When will I ever learn my lesson??? Yesterday I threw my darks in for a cycle. Come to find out, Roy had left a pen in his pocket and black ink was everywhere. I nearly cried, but decided I'll run it through one more cycle and see what happens. It did the trick and I though I had dodged a bullet. I put those darks into dry and went on with my day. To my dismay, as I was folding that load I discovered yet another pen, that I had missed on my first round...a lovely blue fountain pen that had distributed it's ink on several items. For the most part the items where inside out or old work out cloths so I wasn't to upset, but there were a few items that I'm trying desperately to restore to pre-pen encounter. I'm determined to be more diligent about my laundry checks from now on.

.a nothing post.

2011-08-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

It's Saturday morning, and it's quiet. Finn is still sleeping off his late night, so I have some time to throw out all my random thoughts.
-I love that summer is slowly winding down...you wouldn't know it with the heat wave we've been having, but the days are growing shorter and I feel autumn creeping onto the horizon.
-My house feels like a wreck lately. I don't know why, but it feels like I can't keep up with all things that need to be cleaned the way I want them to be cleaned.
-The mountains are calling me. I want to build a fire and roast something.
-I love that Finn is feeding himself those little puffs. He would just open his mouth and let me feed him, but I know that if a put a few on his tray that he will grab, and work very hard to try and get it into his mouth so that he can enjoy those few moments before the puff morsel dissolves.
-Speaking of eating, I bought this little gadget

so that the little nugget can suck on all sorts of yummy fruits and veggies without worrying about him choking. Might I add that he LOVES it!

-I want a new blender. With all the smoothies I've been making lately, its a pain to clean and disassemble the one i have. I want a small single size one that doesn't take a lot to clean.

-Finn is starting to smell like a big kid in many ways. Gone are the sweet smelling baby breath days, and of course his diapers are more rancid too. But the breath, I wasn't expecting the breath to stink so soon. I finally broke down and bought the gum and tooth cleaner for infants, and surprisingly it helps.
-Roy has been running at the track with me a few days a week. It's been hard! He has shown me a few speed workouts to mix up the routine, and I love that my whole body feels it the next day, not just the ol leggies. Last night we went as the storm clouds came in. Thank goodness for that cool off, I only wished it would have rained on us.
-Spiders are taking over my house, well at least the outside. I feel like I sweep away cobwebs on a daily basis and not two days later there are new ones. It might be a losing battle.
-I have tons of tomatoes that I need to find something to do with. Since Roy pretty much despises this lovely fruit my options are limited. I think I will just have to can pasta sauce.
Finn is rousing so I'll leave the randomness for now.

.seattle, day 5...in which we leave.

2011-08-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

Our final day in Seattle, we drove back into the city to get a few pics, a few souvenirs, and some crab. Roy finally convinced me that I would regret not having the experience despite the cost. First stop was of course the space needle.

We didn't go up, but we got an obligatory picture of the famous landmark. We walked around the downtown center and checked out the huge water fountain that people can play in. It was nice to sit for a bit and just enjoy. Charlie kept saying he wanted to go play in the water with the music (this kid has Latin hips), but whenever his dad tried to take him down fear would over take him and he would refuse to take another step closer. Such a funny kid!

Finally, we made our way back to Pikes market where we bought 2 legs of Alaskan King Crab....yikes it was a pretty penny! For our grand finale of the day we made a wonderful seafood dinner complete with cheese biscuits, fresh limeade, and of course crab. It was AWESOME! What a wonderful way to end a vacation, being with good friends enjoying good food!!!

.seattle, day 4.

2011-08-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

This was my favorite day of the whole trip for a few reasons. First we got to go to Vashon island, and second because I got to meet Josh one of Roy's good friends from Fl. Jon grew up on Vashon, and his parents still live there, so we lucked out and had a local showing us around. As far as meeting up with Roy's friend Josh, it was all perfect timing. Josh had called Roy the day before we left and told Roy that he was going to be in Washington for a wedding. He was leaving Sunday night, so he was going to be in Seattle for the day. We had a nice Sunday lunch while Josh and Roy talked and caught up.

When we got to Vashon later that afternoon, Jon took us (mostly me) to go see the bike in the tree. If you haven't read the children's book "The Red Ranger Came Calling", then you're missing out and won't have any clue what I'm talking about. But if you have, then you know exactly what I'm talking about.

Down to point Robinson and the light house next. We got to go up to the top, which according to Jon and Chelsie, never happens because it is never open. Lucky us!

Jon took us to hunt for crabs and star fish down in the tidal pools by his house. Crabs give me the heebee jeebees, ucckk, they remind me too much of spiders. Char feels the same way about crabs, as you can see in the picture of him and Josh.

I'm such a pansy....look how small they are.

Jon risked his dry clothes to grab us a star fish while the tide was coming in.
After the tidal pools we enjoyed an awesome dinner that Jon's mother threw together for us, and then played a few games in which Roy actually won.

We missed the first ferry back to Alki, so we had to wait an hour to the next ferry...one of the draw backs to living on an island. Needless to say both Finn and Char fell asleep in the car on the ferry.

.seattle, day 3.

2011-08-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

I know I'm dragging this out too long and just need to get all of the trip put up at once, but I find that I devote more of my time to other things like cleaning, reading, and doing Finn things. But I'm trying to get it finished up here soon.Saturday was our random day. We started out the day with a early walk with Finn. He had had a rough night and to our dismay woke early too. Walking along the boardwalk he drifted off to sleep, while his tired parents enjoyed the cool quiet morning.
We drove out towards Seattle and made our way up to Snoqualmi Falls. We made it a quick visit since it was teaming with tourists, but we did enjoy feeling the mist rising up from the falls, and having people take pictures of Finn...people couldn't get enough of him kicking his legs in his Bjorn.

After a quick stop for some lunch at local eatery named Dicks we made a quick stop at Bruce and Brandon Lee's graves for Roy. The headstones were made out of some of the most beautiful stones that I've ever seen!
The Fremont Troll was next up on our whirlwind stops of the day. It's just a sculpture that the town put in under a bridge of a cement troll with a car in his hand. The best part of the sculpture is that they used an actual VW bug.
We stopped at Gasworks park for the boys to stretch their legs and climb around for a bit. The park was created from an old factory and a lot of the old machinery is just painted and can be played on. It also has a great view of the city.

Our last stop of the day was to Ballard locks. The locks allow travel from lake Washington out to the sound, it was pretty interesting to see the boats being lowered down and raised up as they went in and out.
I made chicken enchiladas for dinner and we again crashed for the night.

.seattle, day 2.

2011-08-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

Friday morning we made our way to the foot ferry, and took a 10 minute crossing to downtown Seattle. We walked along the wharf and checked out some different shops, and then found ourselves at the gum wall. The idea of the gum wall is completely nasty...made me think of middle school desks, but it was actually quite fun and artistic once you got past the fact that it was chewed gum. As a bonus, Roy and Chelsie even found their names. We tackled Pikes Market after that. It was of course packed beyond belief, but it was still fun to see all the funky people, smell the beautiful flowers, and look at the huge amounts of fresh fish. We enjoyed a fresh baget sandwich, and a yummy eclair from a french deli where we couldn't pronounce a single item. We did a bit more shopping, and then we grabbed a quick gelato on our way back to the ferry. I had strawberry basil and cream gelato that was to die for, Roy thought it tasted like a plant. After walking around the whole day, we were all done. So home to enjoy pizza and a movie while the kids hit the mattress. Good day!

.seattle, day 1.

2011-08-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

The Northwest is a beautiful place that I've always loved. The weather is darn near perfect for my liking, I completely love the rainy overcast days that so many do not, and the combination of tree and ocean is just lovely. I would miss my mountains and snow, but could be very happy there I think.
Awhile ago we had some friends move up there who were always telling us to come visit, so I finally took them up on their offer. Roy could care less to travel so I undertook the whole process of planning and getting everything underway, but I'm so glad I did....it was a fun family trip. Though, I have to say, traveling with children really does add a level of stress to the whole thing. Finn did amazingly well for being completely off schedule and being strapped into his stroller for great portions of the day.

We arrived early Thursday morning, and ran to the store to pick up a few things for the week. Jon and Chelsie live nearly on the beach in Alki, and have an amazing view of the sound and of Seattle. So that night we decided to just chill at the beach and eat dinner with a bon fire. Their son Charlie who is nearly three is a crazy social kid. He was all over the place talking to complete strangers and dancing up a storm with the band that was playing on the beach. Finn had no desire to get close to the water...it seems that the waves were a bit too noisy for his liking, but he kicked it in the sand and tried really hard to figure out what it was that he was sitting in.

Roy enjoyed the beach more than the water too. Apparently sea kelp weirds him out, and of course it's everywhere...not to mention the water is ice cold. What did he expect...Florida?
It was a great evening though just catching up and enjoying the atmosphere of Alki beach.

.7 little ones

2011-08-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

Finn,

feeling sand for the first time

and a ha-ya...dad

Another month has zoomed past, and your getting more active and interested in the world around you. You didn't gain a single ounce at your last appointment so we are trying hard to pack on some el bees. The dr wasn't super worried, but we are definitely going to keep track of you so you don't drop completely off. You made your first flight this past week, and did exceptionally well. The magazines kept you occupied for a great part of the trip...you just love paper. At seven months you love kicking your legs like a maniac, eating yogurt, playing with my hair, and rolling. You sit pretty good, but still fall over if there is nothing behind you. You are also getting awesomely vocal and saying sounds like dada and clicking your tongue a lot...so much fun! We still haven't seen any teeth around these parts, but you have started to drool like a fool, so maybe soon we will be seeing some. What fun we have around these parts watching you learn and grow.

thickening thighs in my walker

peek-a-boo

.this & that.

2011-08-08T12:06:00.000-07:00

I went digging through my cupboards this past week and re-discovered some wedding gifts that have been collecting dust, one of which is a very nice ice cream maker. We made up an awesome batch of homemade chocolate chunk. Unfortunately for me, it was delightful and made about a gallon of that deliciousness. I invited neighbors over to partake in our abundance, and we still had some left. I had to eventually get rid of the rest, because having it in my freezer was very much a temptation. Hopefully, when our family is more complete, it will produce the perfect amount for a family to indulge in.
Aside from making high caloric food this past week, Roy & Beth celebrated 4 years of marriage. Roy surprised me by taking half the day off, bringing me flowers, going to a movie, and dinner in which I finally got to eat REAL crab. I told him I always wanted to eat seafood, with a hammer and a bib. I enjoyed it thoroughly!
In other good news, we head up to Seattle at the end of this week. Finn's first big trip, and ours with a little dude. I'm excited, and a little apprehensive about traveling with a baby who demands structure, but I guess we will see how it all goes.

.4 on the 4th.

2011-08-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

I remember the first time I saw the man who would become my husband...a one Roy Hoffman. I walked into Sacrament Meeting at my first single's ward out of college. He was wearing a ridiculously outdated suit with pure and utter disregard of what anyone else thought of him, and he was busy. He wasn't like the other guys loafing around in the back pews, or showing up late, waiting for Sunday to commence. He was making sure it happened. Needless to say he was hard to miss, what with his loud suit, and active character. My first judgment of him was, "what a cool kid, I like that he's different".
Now here we are some 5 and half years later, having been married for 4, and I still think, "what a cool kid, I like that he's different". It's funny how some things never change, but how some things can change so much...4 years of life together can do that.
Thanks for being, growing, and becoming with me sweets!

.mama bendy.

2011-07-28T08:30:00.000-07:00

that's what roy calls me
and I like it,
I like it a lot.
it is my new stage of life
I thought it would be hard to leave my "working with just husband and me" stage,
but really I look foward to my days so much more with little finnigan.
to say that its easy, would be utter rubbish (and I only have one little dude).
somehow, non of the work seems to weigh down my love for my life
in fact it seems to grow
why is that?
maybe its just the fact that im doing something hard
somewhat successfully that makes me feel so comfortable in my new shoes
im mama bendy,

and I like it

.the simple things.

2011-07-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

It's the simple things in life that bring the happiest moments. In this case, Finn found great joy in watching dad sharpen a knife. Who would have guessed he would enjoy it so much??? What a funny kid!

.long weekends.

2011-07-22T14:01:00.000-07:00

Are so nice! They always seem to come at the right time to when you're thinking "man I can't take another Monday morning". Not that we always do what we plan with those free days, but sometimes just the break of the routine is just what is needed. This past week I worked very hard in a lot of areas. It was a good week for being active, losing the poundage, and organizing. I worked on some hobbies, and hung out with Finn, who was more then happy to show me how his tongue makes a clicking noise. We spend a lot of time clicking and talking now. Just now I cheered him on as he took on a particularly hard rolling move(those arms can hang you up sometimes). So what with all the hard work put in over here this week we are looking forward to three long days with Roy. Happiness is being together as a family!

.6, and half way there.

2011-07-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

Finn P. we've made it to your half year mark. as crazy and as sad as that all seems, it also has been so fun to watch your grow from cute lump to inquisitive child. you are soooo mello and even tempered....grandma even called you "sober" which is not really accurate, because you are smiley, gibbery, and as active as they come...you just don't put up too much of a stink when your cranky, for which im grateful for.
you are definitely in the "everything goes in my mouth" stage. those motor skills of yours have vastly improved and have allowed you to get most anything within your reach to end up in your mouth. For your 6 month day of days I gave you a taste of watermelon (daddy did not appreciate my choice of fruit), and strawberry. You gave that fruit a good going over with your tongue...you especially loved the texture of the strawberry.
Checking yourself out in the mirror is a favorite past time, and I love seeing your mind work as you see yourself. In fact i love watching your mind figure out anything about the world around you...new textures, new sights, new games...this really is a fun stage. you have got the rolling bit down, and we are working on your sitting, which might take a bit as you just love to lean forward way too much.

Things that WE like that YOU like to do:

.suck on your bottom lip.

.grab and suck on you feet.

.suck on all four fingers for soothing or just for fun.

All in all you are one happy little dude, and in our book we won the lottery with you!

.no sleep for the weary.

2011-07-11T07:38:00.000-07:00

I've discovered why I'm not a morning person...morning sleep is just far too good. I mean it feels like I toss and turn all night, and then finally my body becomes completely relaxed at about 4 and then the good sleep takes over. Consequently, waking up before 7 becomes very difficult, and its no small feat to convince myself to get up and run at 6. At least I can count on getting in a few more hourse of sleep after I feed Finn around 4 or 5. But not today! My sweet little Finn who always goes right back to sleep after his morning feeding decided that today he would change it up. I was in and out of his bedroom 5 different times between 5 & 6 trying to get him back to sleep. I finally nursed him a little bit more and off to dream land that little lad went, and he's still there now at 8:30. I'm feeling a bit robbed of my extra 2 hours of morning sleep that I so love...it's a good thing that little man is so cute!

Asleep in the tent while camping.

.a natural.

2011-07-04T11:38:00.000-07:00

We got July off with a wonderful overnight camp with the fam. While everyone else camped on top of each other, we were lucky enough to have some connections into a closed camp and spent the night free of the crowds. That is one thing, in my opinion, that can ruin camping...feeling like you didn't leave the crowds of the city in the first place. This was Finn's introduction to camping, and of course I was worried how he would handle it all. I needn't have worried though because, he was a champ. He took it all in without too much change of his rhythm. I realize that 5 month olds are probably easy campers as far as children go...I mean he doesn't get dirty, and there is no anxiety of him getting into the river or other such dangers, but I was pleasantly surprised by his chill-ness as it were. It made for a great weekend to welcome in July.

.gumming.

2011-06-30T18:59:00.000-07:00

Toes, Fingers, Peas...whatever I can get in my hands is going into my mouth.

In other non-related news...I picked up my Harry Potter books again for the first time since I first read them years ago. I forgot how much I really enjoyed them. Even knowing what's going to happen doesn't take anything from the magic of those books. I love reading, especially good reading. When Finn wakes up from his naps I lay him down with his toys and read out loud from those creative books, and we both enjoy.

We are heading out for a quick camping trip for the weekend, and I'm so stoked to get out for our first real camping trip as a triple set. I love that I have a little boy that I get to explore the outdoors with...and I'm looking forward to many more family camping trips together!

.swimming, the getto, and all the other misc. things that fit in a weekend.

2011-06-27T09:19:00.000-07:00

I didn't always feel like we lived in a ghetto, I mean we really liked living here for awhile. But, it seems lately like we are slowly losing the value of our place. We've had numerous run ins with the police at our complex and it just makes me sad that a few can ruin it for everyone. Sat. we had another episode with someone snooping around our carport. Luckily a neighbor confronted them and they were scared off, but come to find out they live in our complex....well rent in our complex. A bunch of young punks with nothing better to do then go around stealing other peoples things. Roy caught them in their lies though because he found a cell phone back, and went over and talked to the kids. They were making up a bunch of lame excuses about what had happened to their phone, but when Roy finally grabbed it and turned it over, the back was missing and the one he had found was a perfect match. The cops couldn't charge them with anything, but hopefully it scared them a bit, and let them know that we are aware of them now. I cannot even express how much we want to move, and this just adds to the stack of reasons why. Enough about the rant....lets move on.
Its really warming up around these parts, which means I try to get most of my errands and exercise done before the sun crests over the mountain tops. On those days I'm out and about in the heat, I get home and spend a good rest of the day in the basement where the heat of the day is abated. How glorious are basements in the summer! Other good ways to combat this heat is swimming. We haven't really had the chance until this weekend to hit the water, but we finally did. The Wards had us over for a swim party, and of course it was the same day that Finn decided that napping was for the birds. So to sum up the first swim experience...mostly sad faced and crying. He had one go at Mikey's pool float and held on for a trip around the pool, but that was it. I held him most of the time while I dangled my feet in the water. We'll just notch that first bad experience to lack of sleep and try again another day when he's not feeling so emotionally compromised.
Despite Finn's tired meltdown we had a really nice time hanging with the Wards and we are happy that we got to end Saturday on a good note.
Sunday we enjoyed a lounging afternoon at my parents house. We just got to sit out on the grass, talk with family, and eat peas. It was a lovely summer evening. My favorite thing of the night was hearing an original song by my niece Emory for Roy. The main line being "Roy is so awesome" which was repeated probably 20 times. JUST LOVELY~

.milestones & other good things.

2011-06-22T17:24:00.000-07:00

Finn finally managed his first roll over, and of course it was when Roy was gone (memo:all the action is in the first 20 seconds) He still doesn't know quite what he did or how he did it, but with a lot more practice he should become proficient at his new skill. Also while Roy was gone, the little man decided sleeping 10 hours was a fairly decent idea. I was so excited to show Roy all of our new accomplishments, but of course he wont roll and last night we digressed back to a 2 hour night. Needless to say, I was a disappointed...even angry that after sleeping good for a whole week, I was drug through a crappy night of sleep. But I can't stay upset or frustrated for long when I see this happening.

One of my favorite things about being a mom to this little man is watching him with his dad. Those boys of mine together can melt my sleep deprived heart any day!

.5.

2011-06-15T15:38:00.000-07:00

Finnigan,
What a little man you are becoming...already 5 months! I was talking to a friend today about your amazing birth and how crazy it all was. I think I was in shock because of how fast everything went. I hold little newborns and marvel that you were once as little and fragile. I marvel because you do so much that these new little babes can't. You have such strong legs, which makes for lots of standing time. You do this awesome move we call the inch worm, because when we lay you on your back and your legs are being held, you will push off. You continue pushing as long as we keeping moving your feet.
You sleep really good, but I can't guarantee how long it will be. I try to plan out things for the day, but sometimes you sleep a lot and sometimes not so much. I'm going to have to come to terms with that.
You're getting super close to rolling over...in fact every time I put you down to sleep you arch your back, get on your right side, and slurp on at lest 2 of your fingers. Sometimes you get so lively at night that when I come to get you I've found you turned 90 degrees in the crib.
You still are figuring out cereal and why we're shoving a spoon into your mouth, but hopefully soon it won't see like such a foreign concept.
We have all your swim gear ready to go, we have just been waiting for warmer weather and a chance for dad to join us. Dad is particularly excited to get you in for your first swim.
Right now you love going on walks with us in the bjorn or the stroller...either one suites your need to get out and see the world. You also love it when we read stories and you get to turn the pages, not that you know what you're doing, but you love to bat at them anyways.
You're not a loud one, and for that I'm grateful. I didn't have anything to compare it to until the new babies started showing up to church. You're whiny, but definitely not loud.
There is just sooo much we love watching you do and learn Finn. What a wonderful, crazy, whirlwind 5 months it's been.

.backpacking.

2011-06-15T15:13:00.000-07:00

Roy is ready to head out on his camping trip for the week.
This is a backpacking trip right?

He might as well have packed himself a luxury hotel suite. But no amount of mocking could persuade Roy to pack a smaller mat...it had to be the "holy" mats my mom made for us. Well no matter how silly he looks, he will be sleeping good...and to Roy, that is all that matters.
Seriously though, I'm going to miss that kid. Last night as Roy was twitching off to sleep, I thought about how empty the bed is going to feel. And then I thought about how much I love watching Finn light up when dad suddenly comes into view everyday after work and how much I'm going to miss seeing that. 4 days without you Roy...I'm a wuss, but I'm going to be very lonely for these next few days.

.you're late.

2011-06-09T20:22:00.000-07:00

Sent Roy off to the dr. tonight because he had some ear issues after the young men's swimming activity last night. And wouldn't you know...only a few weeks into summer and Roy already has a hole in his ear drum. To top off the whole experience he will be going in for an X-Ray and possible MRI on his right knee that he also happened to hyper extend on his run last night. Oh and in the process of checking out his knee the dr.noticed his other knee was tweaked and has water on it. I have no idea what that really means or what he will have to do to fix it, but I do know one thing...Roy needs to stop playing like he is 12 years old anymore because he's going to break the bank. He's not getting any younger and either is his body. I love that the dr. commented that Roy was late...meaning she has seen Roy every May for one thing or another since we started seeing her 3 years ago. It looks like he missed his annual appointment by 2 weeks, but made up for it with his broken body. What am I going to do with that husband of mine?

.growing small.

2011-06-08T07:26:00.000-07:00

Does anyone love those hands as much as I do?

We never expected to have a huge baby...I mean look at us. And true to our expectations, our little potato Finn is a wee little one. At his 4 month check up he weighed in at 13.6 lbs and 24in tall. His weight is in the 5th percentile and his height is in the 12th. All of this of course is in the normal range for his little frame...the dr. just says he's not going to be a big guy, and we are ok with that. He had his first trial of rice cereal this morning. As expected he did nothing but regurgitate most of it, but it was good for him to test out the spoon and mouth it a little. He has finally figured out sleeping too. I finally dug in and sleep trained him, and after many long days of crying Finn is a better sleeper. I don't swaddle him anymore, he usually rolls to his right side and promptly sticks all four fingers in his mouth and starts slurping away. He can still have his times when he refuses to sleep, but he is getting sooo much better. Other things Finn loves right now is riding in the stroller. Roy will take him out for a run when he gets home from work, and he goes with me in the morning. Sometimes he talks to himself, but most of all he just sits quietly taking in all the sights of the wold. I love that little man of mine...I don't even remember my life without him anymore.

Just before bath time Finn was exploring dad's face...I think he liked the texture of Roy's scruff. I especially love how his legs are curled up and pressed against Roy's chest!

.dirty weekend.

2011-06-06T09:06:00.000-07:00

We had a really good weekend. We didn't do anything particularly grand, it just felt like a good weekend. My brother Casey turned 40...it's still seems strange to me that I have a brother who is 40. I remember when my mom turned 40 and she seemed so old, but now that I have a sibling that old it doesn't seem all that ancient.

Saturday Finn and I made an impromtu trip up to Soldier Hollow to watch Roy get dirty running the dirty dash with his young men. It seems that any disruption of routine brings on this...

Finn and his crocodile tears...he slept really good when we got home though. As you can see Roy had a great time running with his boys and getting dirty in the process. That's what boys do best!

I'll spare you a leg shot of Roy, even if he does have nice legs. (his basketball shorts became too weighted with mud to stay up, so he ran most of the race in his skimpy running shorts.)

Sunday Roy didn't have any meetings to get to see we actually got to be with him all day. That always makes Sundays that much better. The Lamberts also fed us good food and loved on Finn, so like I said...really good weekend.

.handprints.

2011-06-02T19:36:00.000-07:00

In my parent's bedroom there are tiny handprints on the walls. My mother captured our sweet little infant hands in clay. I know she treasures those keepsakes as much as I do. My sister had also done this for her children, and I knew I wanted to do this with my own. Today I finally went to the craft store and gathered the items needed and now have my sweet little man's 4 month handprint hanging above my bed. I LOVE it!

.the grab bag.

2011-05-31T14:25:00.000-07:00

I have just a bunch of randomness to share from our life this past week. It has been a little bit of a fitful day seeing as Finn's naps have been some kind of crazy since this weekend. He pretty much slept 2 hours during the whole day yesterday, and cried whenever we tried to put him down. I tried to let him cry himself to sleep, but after many hours of trying to get him to sleep it was a hopeless cause. This sleep training stuff is unpleasant work (he's crying himself out as I type). I decided I needed to get serious about Finn getting himself to sleep instead of me nursing him to sleep. I'm just waiting for these crying days to pay off.

I often find myself feeling like I'm going to miss everything about my sweet baby boy. I was feeding him today, and wanted to stop time so badly. There is a part of me that doesn't want him to get any bigger, or change anymore. I just feel like this part of his life is slipping aways so quickly, and it makes me feel very melancholy some moments. But then there are other moments that I get so excited thinking about his future and seeing all his "firsts". I've started creating a list of all the things I want to do with our children. Things that I or Roy did as children, and new creative things I've read or heard about. What a crazy fun adventure being parents is going to be, and I look forward to it with great happiness!

We had a great LONG weekend...we don't get nearly as many of those as we would like. We spent Monday hiking and eating with family. My little brother Sean just finished his Military summer training and was able to spend the whole day with us. He selflessly gave us his time helping find a new lap top for Roy and tweaking our desk top at home. What an awesome brother I have.

Birds have moved into our carport. I had know idea they were there, but Roy finally pointed it out to me. He did not take kindly to our new neighbor as it was streaking his car constantly. Sure enough the nest had 5 eggs, and I didn't have the heart to move it. I told Roy, "that's like 5 baby Finn's". And wouldn't you know one day later 3 of those eggs hatched. We will wait until those babies are grown before we move that nest.

Well Finn finally gave into sleep so I'll close this post just by saying how much I love my family, my country, and my life!

.the stank.

2011-05-27T07:12:00.001-07:00

Finn used to be our regular little pooper...he was a natural! But he's decided this past month to be less regular. He likes to go several days between deposits, and that of course always makes me worry. Despite my worry though he always goes, and he's never constipated. This last stretch of no poop has been his longest. He has gone a week with nary a skid mark. Consequently, this little mans gas has been stank(y). He no longer smells like a sweet babe and that has been unfortunate. This morning however, I'm glad to report that Finn finally went. Roy commented that you know you're parents when you'er happy to see pooh in your baby's diaper. Yes Finn, you poohed, all is right in the world again!

.open windows, open doors.

2011-05-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

My two favorite things to hear in the mornings...
The birds outside, and Roy and Finn having their morning conversations together. I don't want to forget those sweet moments as dad and son greet each other for the day!

.saturday.

2011-05-21T13:26:00.000-07:00

I love weekends! I love them when there busy, and I love them when there empty. It was especially nice to have Roy around today because Finn and I struggled in the sleep department last night. We've had a bit of a cold making the rounds, and Finn is in the middle of his fever day...that bites. He is sleeping it off right now and I'm listening to his congested snores...everything is cute when youre a baby!
Speaking of that man of mine...he seems to be constantly on the go. Even right now as I type he is mowing lawns earning some extra mula for his little fam. But if he's not working he is busy being young men's pres, and when he's not doing church stuff he's doing condo biz, which I have to admit I'm almost done with. We get calls at all hours of the night ( everything happens at night ), that only Roy can help with, even though we hired a management company to deal with all the calls. Getting our own house is getting higher on my priorities everyday. Our precious hours with him come at a high price. I know he is trying to find a balance, and I'm very proud of all his hard work he puts in for not only us, but others. I just wish others wouldn't take advantage of his service. He'll never say " no", but maybe I should.
Whoa bad additude! Sorry about that, I think it's been building up for some time. We are allowed to vent our frustrations every once in awhile right?
Saturdays....i guess I love them so much because I get to wake up and have Roy there. Not even Sunday's are good for that.

laughing

2011-05-19T16:13:00.000-07:00

Finn has been laughing for weeks, but we've never been able to catch it until today. Great Grandma came to play and boy did she get the little man to giggle his guts out. in my haste to catch him, I recorded him upside down...mostly though, it's just fun to listen to him.

.4, you're huge.

2011-05-16T17:25:00.001-07:00

Mr. Finn,
Another month has made it's way into the past. You are on your way to being our little boy instead of being our little baby. As a four month old you continually make us laugh with your assortment of high pitched squeals and your attempts to blow raspberries. You're even more in love with your hands then you were a month ago. They are constantly in your mouth and covered in drool.
You've also discovered you prefer seeing the world sitting up, and you do rather well with just a few pillows around you.

You've been testing your legs out for awhile, but you have gotten really good at standing for long periods of time. No wonder with hams like these!

Sleeping is becoming a lot more regular around these parts now. You always take a 9:00 nap in the morning and one at 12:00 in the afternoon. We are still trying to get in a third somewhere around 4:00, but you fight that one far to well to get any sleep value out of it. Nights have become good again. You sleep from 5-8 hours during your first stretch and then another 4-5 hours after your mid-night feeding. I'm not holding my breath, because babies are anything but predictable, but for right now, we both sleep well!

Your dad and I were talking last night about looking into your eyes and seeing just how real you are! We love all that you bring to our lifes Finn, and look forward to all the memories we get to make with you. Like this one...

First bike repair with dad. Such sweet moments!

.mom.

2011-05-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

There is something about becoming a mother myself that has deepened my bond with my mother even more. I think it's the fact that I more fully understand her sacrifice that she made for her family. Once you're in the trenches, as it were, there is band of brothers (or sisters) effect. We have an understanding of our roles that only other mothers can fully appreciate. So on this day of Mothers, I can truly say that I love and appreciate my mother more fully. Thanks for being the stubborn, task oriented, hard working, adventurer that you are mom. You and dad have raised a solidly loving family, and I can't thank you enough for your sacrifice!

.lonely night.

2011-05-07T07:50:00.000-07:00

Since Finn has entered our life's, Roy and I have spent a few nights apart, including the weekend after Finn was born. I've done this before in our married life and never minded, but somehow having a little person that depends on my for everything has made these lonely nights even more miserable. Last night was one of those nights...Roy spent it with the young men on a camp-out. Thankfully, Finn slept well. I on the other hand tossed and turned whilst dreaming of all kinds of craziness. I was happy when 5 rolled around and I got to feed the little man in bed with me and snuggle with his little frame. Just having someone else in the bed with me eased my mind, and I slept like a rock until 7.
So we made it through the night and Roy will be back early today, and what a nice day it is turning out to be. I think we will take a walk down to the park, Finn and I, and get out to enjoy this sun.
In other news, Katie came over last night so that I could teach her an Irish dance for her 3rd graders. It's been such a long time since I have even thought about those steps and how to count out the rhythms. Needless to say, it took us a bit of time before we finally got something that worked, but I did it...and I realized how much I missed it. Perhaps one day I will pick it up again.

.I might just die.

2011-05-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

Went out for our morning run this morning, and to be honest I probably could have walked faster. we lapped around the park a few times, and Finn was just a cooing away. On the last lap I checked on him and he was out like a light. He was all limp and peaceful. I didn't think this kid could get any cuter, but I was wrong. I hurried home so that I could document his cuteness, but wouldn't you know he woke up as I was getting the camera. He's still ridiculously cute!

Also on our run this morning we saw a guy flying a kite. I tried to remember the last time i flew a kite...it's been a really long time.

We also checked out the ducks in the canal. The little ones are just starting to swim around, and I think it's one of the cutest things besides my sleeping son.

Good morning run!

.left to his own devices.

2011-05-03T16:56:00.000-07:00

My friend Hayley described watching her son Mikey playing once as spying on him. I totally felt the same way yesterday. I was cooking dinner and Finn was just having a good ol' time in his bouncy chair. I had to grab the camera and capture his sweetness. I especially love how he blows a rasberry right at the beginning. Oh how I love this kid!
Side note...we have now implemented a constant clipped in mode for the bouncy chair. It seems that Finn can now kick his way right out if he so desires.

.sucking wind.

2011-05-03T09:25:00.000-07:00

Got an early mothers day gift yesterday....the Chariot. What is "the Chariot" you might ask. It's one of these:

It's a sweet ride that converts into about a bazillion things... no really it does. Least of which is a jogging stroller. Finn and I took our first spin in it this morning, and it was really fantastic!

I may be completely out of shape and sucking wind, but I think Finn and I will get use to our morning runs!

.small hours.

2011-04-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

I'm generally a happy go lucky person, but like everyone else, I can have my down days. Yesterday was one of those days. I can't even put my finger quite on why I was feeling so down, I think it was just a combination of things. Roy knows things are usually afoot when my ability to talk about anything is non-existent. This morning it was nice just to lie in bed next to my sweet sleeping Finn, and have Roy holding us. We just laid there and gazed at the precious miracle that is Finn. I love how simple moments like that can erase an entire crappy day. It reminds me of some of my favorite lyrics. "Our life's are made in these small hours, these little wonders...time falls away, but these small hours still remain." It's good to remind myself of what really matters, and what I need to just let go of.

.wheat.

2011-04-25T15:15:00.000-07:00

I have taken a serious turn on eating healthy. I now have the time and energy to focus on not only my own eating habits, but my family's as well. When both Roy and I worked, it was really hard to be motivated to want to cook...let alone healthy meals. We ate out far too often especially for lunches. But like I said I'm now home and I can put my energies into making sure my family eats well.
My latest healthy trend....homemade wheat bread and the like.
Roy indulged my efforts and bought me a wheat grinder for Easter, and on Sunday morning I made whole wheat pancakes. They were good...I promise...even Roy liked them...and he doesn't like pancakes.I'm really excited about being able to make healthy things for my family, and also help out our budget a little too.

.easter & more.

2011-04-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

It seems my days are so full of everything lately that I haven't really had a chance to sit down and write all the different changes and thoughts that fill up our lifes. Obviously, a lot of my time is consumed by this little dumplin', and that is just great, but there is a real balance (as with everything) that has to be found. I find myself waking up in the morning wanting to do all of my to do list, but rare is the day that finds that complete. Just a few days ago I re-read that talk in conference by Lynn G. Robbins about what manner of men & women ought we to BE. This was such a fabulous talk, and it has helped me focus more of my efforts on being rather than just doing, and I find that I'm so much more happy. The important Do's are automatically checked off as I focus on BEING a better person...it simplifies things a bit!
We had a great Easter together with family:
Finn got his first taste of Easter, with his "I'm staring you down" look.

The other kids had a hay day as they searched Grandma's yard for hundreds of eggs.

And enjoyed the spoils of their hunt together on the porch

Finn hung out with Great G-ma inside just a rocking away.

In his basket Sunday, Finn received his first Florida Gator gear from Grandma & Grandpa Hoffman.

Plus a few toys. He Loves his new Elephant!

So many changes have happened in the past 2 months, but I don't really feel the energy or the desire to fill in for the moment. I'm hoping to get around to it soon just so I can keep somewhat up to date of what's changed, but there will be no promises.

.rainy days & mondays.

2011-04-18T13:32:00.001-07:00

Few things make me as happy as a good rainy filled day, and today is wonderful wet day! It's one of the only thing that makes the end of the weekend enjoyable. With all the rain today, I had the hankering for homemade bread. I've been meaning to do this for a few days, but today I finally got around to it. Thanks to my mom, I made 2 successful loaves, and have been eating yummy toast out of them since I got home. This is part of my attempts of eating more whole foods...ground the wheat and everything! Weekends are so nice, because we get Roy to ourselves...well mostly. Saturday we had such nice spring weather, that we had to get out and enjoy it. We laid out on a blanket and took in my beautiful tulips that have not been thwarted by all the crazy weather we have been having. I love these mixed ones the best. They seem to come up slightly different every year! And of course Roy got in some good daddy son time. Those boys make me smile!!

I'm already looking forward to next weekend and the Easter festivities.

.3 m's of goodness.

2011-04-15T10:09:00.001-07:00

Finn, 3 months my little man...I can't believe how fast it has flown by. Just this morning, as daddy brought you in, we marveled at how much you've grown. You have so many rolls that get loved on all the time. Daddy calls your fabulously chunky cheeks saddle bags because they sag a little under their own weight. You are now doing all sorts of crazy things that 3 month olds should do. Like loving your thumbs. Chubby boy, you love your thumbs! Quite often I hear you slurping your thumb from the other room...it melts my heart. Along with your thumbs, you're discovering your hands. You are constantly folding and unfolding them in front of your face as you gaze at them curiously. You are starting to sleep more, but I never count on getting more than 4 1/2 hours at one time. You can sleep 6 hours consistently even 71/2 hours, but then you'll go and start your short intervals again. On a happy sleep note though, you are now sleeping all on your own in your own room, and that makes momma happy! You are HAPPY! You are constantly dishing out your enormous smiles, and now along with those smiles you're chirping like a little bird. I love driving and hearing you in the back just having a good ol' time with you and your blanket. Dad especially loves all the interaction that he gets with you now... you respond to a lot of his musings and you're getting ever so close to letting out a real laugh. We thank our Father in Heaven everyday for our sweet little man, and love how complete we feel now that you're apart of our lives. Keep growing strong and happy Finn!

.chirping.

2011-04-15T09:49:00.000-07:00

Finn, When did you become such a good squawker? It's my new favorite thing of yours...listening to all you have to say and all the excitement that you say it with!

.dad is for playing.

2011-04-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

This is what roy and finn spend time doing. I love my boys!

.beanie blues.

2011-04-08T18:37:00.000-07:00

Conference made for some great catch up time on some half-done projects. Sadly it takes so long for me to crochet these beanies that by the time I'm done they barely fit Finn's ever growing head. Perhaps these will make great gifts come winter. My second imporvised beanie...it was supposed to be an owl one, but I decided to just do a small brim. I totally winged it and it didn't come out half bad.

The blue looks sweet on the little man! This was actually a hat I had started for a friend's older baby, and looks like it fits Finn rather well. I guess I will have to start another, much larger one for him.

.invaded.

2011-04-06T11:45:00.000-07:00

I'm convinced that we are slowly being overrun by ants. Every spring we get the occasional ants that find our way into our home...nothing that a shoe counldn't fix. This spring however, we are finally being assulted with their full numbers. It started off simple enough 5-6 ants in our bathroom, but slowly everyday there was more and more. It was slowly driving me crazy! I would kill all the new ants and spray the perimeter of the bathroom and not 3 hours later I would come back to a new batch of ants roaming around my bathroom floor. They then moved from the bathroom to our bedroom. I would find them here or there on a few clothes that didn't get thrown in the hamper. So I just started keeping the floor cleared of any debris thinking that would help. The other morning when I went to grab Finn (who is finally sleeping in his own room & doing wonderful) I noticed he had spit up on his swaddle blanket. I unwrapped him and left the swaddle blanket on our bed. I came back that afternoon to feed and lay the little man down for his nap, when I noticed our bed had been taken over by ants. They had smelled that sweet soured milk smell and made their way in mass. I may have freaked a little because I have never seen anything like it. The vacuum came out and I went to work sucking up those little buggers, washing bedding, tearing apart the bed, cleaning and vacuuming our entire room (it hadn't been done that well in awhile), and then we sprayed the entire perimeter of the basement. I'll admit, I feel a little violated! We are hoping that we can keep the ants at bay, but serisouly, does anyone have a full proof plan to keep ants out, because I'm completely grossed out!

.the living is easy.

2011-04-06T11:33:00.001-07:00

As a parent you make up all kinds of strange songs to sing to your baby. Most of the time these songs have repetative, uncreative lyrics like, "you are so cute" or "we love you", and the melody is often times not truly catchy...even annoying at times. If you're a parent you know what I mean. I catch myself often singing songs that I would hide my head in shame if I knew anyone else was listening. But if it's just me and Finn, those ridiculous diddies will come out in full force just to buy a smile from my boy. Roy is not ammune to these songs either, and in fact, I have to give Roy credit in the creative department. Just the other day I caught Roy singing the following:

"Thunder thighs, and the Finn is living easy"

Of course the real lyrics are "summertime, and the living is easy", but if fit so well that we are now constantly singing out that phrase.

Poor Finn, I hope we don't give him a complex~

.retired.

2011-04-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

I'm officially retired...of sorts. Really I'm just starting my forever job of being mom to this sweet little dude! (look at those mischevious eyes) We are learning eachothers groove and figuring out how to get the most sleep out of everyday. Finn, you really are a good sleeper, if we can just get a few more hours squeezed in at night that would be fantastic. 5:00 seems to be Finn's cranky hour so we spend a lot of sling time when mom is cooking. Daddy is great and usually treats Finn to shower time just before bed. The little man is usually knocked out by the end...he's all loosey goosey. We had a great conference weekend, even if the little man's schedule was completely thrown out the window. We went to Roy's mission reunion, where I played a dicey top handed piano for the meeting because no one else could play, and Roy got to catch up with his buds from the mission. Saturday, Finn enjoyed his first train ride down town to meet uncle Ryan who was at conference with about a million elders. It took us quite of bit of time to track him down in the sea of suits. Roy and I had planned to go to dinner, but our night was totally thrown off with conference events so all we got to do was go and get me some new shoes and my very own head lamp for our summer camping adventures. After all the craziness of the weekend I didn't have the heart to put Finn in his own bed in his own room, but we will start afresh this week in getting him transfered into his own room. Finally, as I said before I think Finn is going to be our thumb sucker. I even caught him in a moment where his efforts and coordination met in success. Keep working at if Finn, one day your fine motor skills won't make you so frustrated!

.new projects.

2011-03-26T15:44:00.000-07:00

I generally fail at all things crafty...I'm talking F minus, minus. I'm not really upset about, I've just come to except that certain things are not in my strength basket as it were. However, having said that, suddenly I've been feeling the creative juices wanting to flow. It stems mostly from these cute onesies that Hayley dons Mikey with. You know the little onesies with ties for little boys...
I wanted one for little Finnigan, but after looking at the Etsy site, I thought to myself "self why spend $12 on one shirt that you could probably make yourself." So I ventured to the fabric store and purchased the goods to make Finn his own tie shirt.
It rocked...as you can see it was a tight fit from the beginning and cant be worn anymore...we are passing it on to our newest cousin on his way in July. After such success I couldn't stop, and with all the babies on their way in our ward I thought these are my new baby gifts. This is for a mystery baby due next month. Don't look close at the stitching because...Yikes...not so good, but I figure the baby won't be wearing it for too long anyhow.

But the one that I love best is for a wee girl due at the end of summer. The stitching is near perfect...yeah. I wish I could make one for Finn to wear, but it's a bit girly. I might rate myself in the mid B range for these bad boys. I might turn out to be crafty after all.

.operation lose the girth.

2011-03-26T06:25:00.000-07:00

The time has come to commit myself to losing the girth. I'm actually only about 5 lbs away from pre-baby weight, but closer to 25 lbs away from where I want to be. So I'm beginning the healthy eating and workout strategies full on this coming week. This would include eating no sugar; eating more raw veggies & fruit; eating less meat...to name just a few things. The working out will come along as it does usually 3 times a week of cardio plus some strength training thrown in for good measure. There it is...30lbs...I'm coming after you!!!

2011-03-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

So we are almost finished with this week of work, and there are definately things I like and dislike about the whole ordeal. I'm sorry to say that after not so wonderful nights of sleep, that I hand him over freely in the morning (it helps that he is so well taken care of by Lena). Seriously, I think I'm to the point where I will just have to let him cry it out a bit so we can both get some better sleep. Despite his night time antics, I always miss him a few hours after I drop him off and I can't wait for my last day so that I can be with little Finn all day and love on him. However, I can see that I'm going to miss working with Jill. I mean for three years I think I saw more of Jill then I saw of Roy...and that is saying something. Even just being back for 2 short days we have started off right where we left off...and it's nice! But it's time to put that chapter behind me. I think I will have to make many plans to hang with Jill away from work so we can just have some fun girl time though!

and because I can, here is Finn and all his cute squeakiness.

.top o' the morning.

2011-03-17T08:04:00.001-07:00

Good morning mr. Finn...happy st. Patty's!
Someone is a happy camper after sleeping his first stretch of 6 hours.

If only it hadn't been wasted on a sick mommy who tossed and turned on her own. keep up the good sleeping little man!

.2.

2011-03-15T07:34:00.000-07:00

two months ago, Finn, you made your entrance into this world...and you have completely changed our lives! We might have gotten more sleep before, but we have decided undeniably, that we want to keep you forever. We love that you have hair everywhere, even your ears. We love it when you stretch really hard after being swaddled all night. We love that you try really hard to suck on your fists, but usually end up hitting yourself in the face (you might be our thumb sucker). We love your little butt that fits perfectly in our hands. We love your little sneezes, but we did not love the cold that came along for the ride. We love how you stare at lights wherever you are. And of course we love how you smile super big and brighten up the moment, even after big blow-outs...we like to call you our little "poopsmith".

You are our little chubby dumpling weighing in at a plump 10.7 lbs (50%)
And one healthy short boy measuring 21.5 in (15%)

You are feeling pretty miserable right now after your vaccinations today, but hopefully you will sleep well and be happier tomorrow!

Thanks for being apart of our little family Finn, we love you!

.yo yo.

2011-03-14T15:58:00.001-07:00

*sigh*

Since the beginning of December I had told my boss that I had wanted to come back to work. We had made this decision after looking at our finances and realizing how tight it would be without my salary...in fact we wouldn't even be able to afford insurance for Finn and I. Of course we only wanted me to work for a little bit until we could figure out another plan. Since January I have been dreading March 16th, and of course the week has finally come. I have had so much anxiety about finding someone to watch the little dude, as well as thinking about pumping. In fact while Roy was at Youth Conference this weekend I was at my parents, but I was just sick to my stomache and crying randomly. On Sunday, I finally hit the wall and decided that I needed to stay home with Finn...instant PEACE! It was as if a weight had been lifted. I don't know how we will make ends meet, and I don't know how we will insure the little man and me, but I DO KNOW that I need to be home. So whatever happens I have the confirmation of that. I had to talk to my awesome boss today and let him know the change of plans. I felt so bad that I even broke down and cried telling him how sorry I was about doing the whole yo yo thing. Of course he was so understanding and just gracious about working with me...which made me feel even worse for backing out at the last minute. But I definately know that I had to do it. So I will get to spend my days being a full time mom, and I'm STOKED about that. who wouldn't be when you have such a cute little man