tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81417342390075398732024-02-06T21:56:07.664-08:00The Munion Familyand stuff we love. or at least like.Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.comBlogger368125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-47174388320189393692019-09-03T20:28:00.001-07:002019-09-03T20:28:45.025-07:00Riley's Baptism<br />
On June 30, 2019, our Riley was baptized by Dave and confirmed and given the gift of the Holy Ghost by Grandpa Mike. We've been studying as a family all about baptism and the commitment involved and boy was she excited to take this step.<br />
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Here is the talk I sort of gave before she was baptized, but not really in full since I totally lost composure during my talk, and then Riley got up and walked away in the middle of it (to retrieve her journal to take notes in, but at the time, I thought she just got bored). And then I knocked a picture off the podium and basically got all kinds of flustered. Her actually baptism went off without a hitch, so that's good. And many thanks to my friend Selena Davis, who took the these pictures for us to remember the day by.<br />
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Dear Riley,<br />
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We are so proud of you and your desire at a young age to follow Jesus. As I've thought about this important even in your life, there has been a picture of you in my mind, standing in the water of baptism, the ripples fanning out around you, softly at first, and then splashing out as your dad dips you back into the water, just as when Christ himself was baptized many many years ago.<br />
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Let's talk about ripples for a moment. When we're at the lake, throwing in rocks, as we often do, some rocks, the small ones, will fall into the water with only a small disturbance, just a slight splash and a ripple or two before it disappears to the bottom. Other ones, those big boulders that we lug into the lake, those rocks can cause a huge disturbance. Their splash zone might extend for a few yards, possibly drenching your brothers and sister, and the ripples from those will fan out way into the lake, causing water plants to bob and rock, frogs to jump and the birds to take flight. <br />
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If your decisions in life were rocks being tossed into the lake, your decision to be baptized would be one of the biggest boulders you could lift. Few decisions you make will have as great a ripple-effect on your life as the decision you are making today to be baptized and receive the Holy Ghost. The ordinance itself is simple and brief, but the commitment you are making to follow Jesus Christ will be a blessing to you every day for the rest of your life. It will color the way you interact with others of God's children, it will help you navigate choices that will lead you either closer to God or farther from Him. As a disciple of christ, you will "stand as a witness of God at all times and in all things...serve Him and keep his commandments, that he may pour His Spirit more abundantly upon you. " (Mosiah 18: 8-9). <br />
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Remember that, Riley: Heavenly Father wants to pour His spirit upon you, that guiding, strengthening power that will aid you on your life's journey, as you strive to honor your baptismal covenants.<br />
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Mistakes will be made as part of your learning process, just like every other person in this room. You will learn about repentance and the healing power of the atonement. You will have the opportunity to renew your baptismal covenant every week when we take the sacrament, to mean it again when you say, "always remember Him."<br />
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My testimony to you: The Savior's power is real. Not just when we die and are resurrected, but in every single day, with all it's obstacles and choices, heart aches and mistakes. His power will heal and guide you through as you try to follow him. Never hesitate to call on him - his love for you is boundless.<br />
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<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-3748467721077500912019-09-03T20:23:00.001-07:002019-09-03T20:42:42.097-07:00From the Mouths of BabesA few weeks ago, we were having a completely lovely walk around Springbrook Nature Center, and the kids all turned photographer with my phone and started competing as to who could get the best picture of butterflies, frogs, flowers, ducks... Twas a worthy final act for my poor phone. It now resides at the bottom of a murky lake, just under a bridge that offers prime duck-photographing.<br />
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So we brought my iphone5 out of retirement. It's been fun looking at the pictures on it from 3 or 4 years ago, and I came across this delightful file I'd forgotten about, which I'll now share here.<br />
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"From the Mouths of Babes."<br />
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Me: Where are your socks? We need to find them!<br />
Joe (3): They're camouflaged - I don't think we'll ever find them. (October 19, 2015)<br />
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Riley(4): What do you call a three-humped camel? A three-humped camel walking around! Hahaha! (October 23, 2015)<br />
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Joe: Wiley, I need a srew driver - mom locked the bathroom door again! (Pause) I need a screw driver!! (November 3, 2015)<br />
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Riley: I'm a scientist because I know lots of things, like chocolate comes from cocoa beans. And the scriptures are true and make us happy. (November 17, 2015)<br />
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Joe: *Sigh* I can't sleep with this much pink! (November 17, 2015)<br />
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Me: Joe you have got to listen to Mommy and stop doing dangerous things that get you hurt like you've been doing all day!<br />
Joe: It's okay - tomorrow is a new day, Mommy. (January 18, 2016)<br />
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Riley: Can I sing you a lullaby Mommy?<br />
Me: Okay<br />
Riley: Go to sleep, Mommy Mom, so you don't want to be naughty. Go to sleep, go to sleep, you'll feel better when you sleep. (January 28, 2016)<br />
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Joe: *Sighs and looks out window* Mom, I wish I had a hump on my nose. (March 2016)<br />
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Riley: Thank you, Joe that was so nice!<br />
Joe: Just don't hug me. (March 2016)<br />
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Joe: My imaginary friend got a little poop on his hand. (April 3, 2016)<br />
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Riley: Daddy, when you're at work, you are in my heart. (May 26, 2016)<br />
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Joe: *Points to breakfast cereal* May I punch that? (June 2, 2016)<br />
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Riley: The earth is really small.<br />
Me: It's actually really big - bigger than Minnesota, bigger than our whole country!<br />
Riley: People only think it's big because we are really, really small. But actually Earth is a very small planet.<br />
Me: *Blinks.* (June 29, 2016)<br />
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Beginning of 16 hour road trip, 1am:<br />
Riley: I LOVE this time of night! This is my favorite time of night! Because of the clouds!<br />
Joe: I brought the best toys in my pack-pack. I brought the MONKEY BOOK! I'm going to stay up all night! That car looks like a hot dog and I want to eat it!<br />
7am:<br />
Joe: Can we go to the airport now?<br />
Me: No.<br />
Joe: Well, are we in Baginia yet?<br />
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February 19, 2017:<br />
Dave: I'm going to finish cutting my hair now.<br />
Joe: But you already look handsome! </blockquote>
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I don't know why I started or stopped this file, but I'm so glad to have it, and to be chuckling over the funny things kids say three years later. I should probably start doing this again - Henry regularly has the funniest observations, but I can't recall any of it, probably because 8 years of consistent sleep deprivation has wrecked my short term memory. I'm not bitter. But I am going to bed now. <br />
<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-36894065901344577872019-02-21T15:02:00.005-08:002019-02-21T15:02:57.365-08:00One Fine Day/Year<div data-contents="true">
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<span data-offset-key="4e8b8-0-0"><span data-text="true">1)After a late night of cleaning and nesting, I woke at 3am with intense back pain, slept fretfully off and on/ Today: After a late night of assembling the fabulous kitchen my dad sent Betty for her birthday(watching Dave assemble it, that is), I woke at 4 to Betty's persistent demands (actually Dave put her in the bed and she head slammed my nose, so I fed her). </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="4e8b8-0-0"><span data-text="true">2)In the morning, I packed the kids lunches while trying to ignore contractions. Totally in denial, didn't tell Dave, but packed my hospital bag and put it in the car "just in cases"/ Today: Packed lunches while spooning oatmeal over the counter into Betty's face. </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="4e8b8-0-0"><span data-text="true">3)Dropped kids off at school and Henry at a friends house so I could go to the DMV and the library and grocery shopping - sucking in air while I took my license renewal test, but after each contraction was over, I astoundingly dismissed it as indigestion. I decided to skip lunch though, as I sensed my time was precious and I still had errands to run. I needed to print off a form for the DMV at the library, and as I did so, definitely scared the homeless looking guys next to me with my groans. As I walked out of the library, I barely stifled a yell, but still, drove on to the store. When I discovered I was too cramped to physcially step out of the car, I decided to call Dave, "just in case" and ended up yell/crying into the phone and we decided to meet at home and he'd take me to the hospital. Just. In. Case. hahah/ Today: Dropped the kids off at school, took babies to the gym where we arrived for my class early so I took a power nap in the front seat while they watched Charlie Brown. After the gym, nursed Bet in the front seat so she could start her nap on the way home, picked up an ice cream cake from Coldstone on the way, got home and transferred her to bed and fed Henry lunch. </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="4e8b8-0-0"><span data-text="true">4)Concerned I was going to deliver on the toilet, I screamed Dave's name when he walked in the door, yelling for him to bring me some pants (my water broke when I got out of the car), he slid down on one knee through amniotic fluid in the bathroom, and helped me put my feet into pajama pants and, in between contractions, we ran for the front door. But I had to stop because the pants were on backwards and falling off. I sat on a towel on the way there and Dave broke the speed limit, which he never does/ Today: took a nap. </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="4e8b8-0-0"><span data-text="true">5) Again, racing contractions, I ran into the hospital, made it almost to the front desk before one hit and I hunched over on a chair and groaned and hit my head against the chair back till it passed. A fabulous nurse ushered me back and didn't quite get the privacy curtain drawn before I jumped out of my pants because I was sure the baby was about to come. I was right. I didn't mind the "ring of fire" as much as I thought I would - I was just so ready to end contractions. She crowned just as the doctor walked into the room to deliver her. Thanks Doc ;)/ Today: Lifted a smiling Betty out of her crib and made her a batch of her favorite egg scramble. She insisted on feeding herself; it was messy. </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="4e8b8-0-0"><span data-text="true">6)Perturbed that delivering the placenta is an additional discomfort, I let Dave hold her till all that was past and then came the good stuff. Sooo snuggly. We moved into the mother baby room and introduced Betty to her 3 siblings and most adoring fans./ Today: Riley had an afterschool activity but Joe comes home and asks if we'd started the party yet? We go downstairs to play with the new kitchen. We'll have spaghetti later, an extra fun baby meal, and sing her happy Birthday before letting all the kids blow out her candle. She won't understand or remember it- this won't even be her first sugar (fourth child we're talking here). <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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But, oh Betty: you are so so loved. God bless you, baby girl! A moment with you is worth every pain or lack of sleep parent could be called to endure.</span></span></div>
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Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-87037758002527241972019-01-06T20:56:00.000-08:002019-01-07T18:09:29.388-08:00Parenting and the Three Strikes RuleI hesitate to put parenting tips out there. Because every child is different, I'm far from the perfect parent myself, and all the parents I know are doing a great job. And, if they have questions they'll ask google, or their therapists, so better to just offer solidarity and support right? Buuut, there is a strategy that I came across early in this parenting game which I've used for all our kids and I feel obligated to pass on, because it's saved my sanity and aided my relationships with my children so very much. It is a skill I picked up from a podcast that, sadly, I now can't find to refer you to, but she has a book by the same title: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Without-Raising-Voice/dp/0978440250">Raise Your Kids Without Raising Your Voice</a>. This strategy is super simple, and it has absolutely molded the way I parent in very positive ways. I really think this would work for a lot of parents and kids, a lot of personality types, and that everyone could benefit with it in their parenting tool box. So here it is: <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">3 Strikes. </span></div>
<br />
Easy to remember, eh? Three strikes is a method for handling nagging and discipline issues.<br />
<br />
Nagging, as we all know, is one heck of a maddening habit. There's a tone. There's persistence. There's a gradual chipping away at the parent's finite reserve of patience. It can turn into an argument, culminating in the parent loosing composure, yelling, saying, "Fine, sure, whatever!" with an eye roll or grimace that to the parent just means, "I'm fed up," but to the child could easily mean, "I don't like you/go away/you disgust me/my love is clearly conditional." Damaging ideas for a child to receive from a parent. More damaging than a simple "no" ever could be. "Rules is rules," as my Dad used to say, but conditional love - that is damaging to relationships. Nobody wins in that exchange.<br />
<br />
So, how to stop nagging?<br />
<br />
<b> 3 Strikes: Nagging Edition</b><br />
<ol>
<li>Strike 1: When a kid asks for a cookie/stay up late/ watch this show, the first time, it is easy to answer with simple yes or no. If yes, that's the end of that. If not, continue to strike 2. </li>
<li>Strike 2: Then the child asks again, usually with a supporting argument. "But I promise I'll still eat a good dinner/get up on time/etc." At this point, I might consider changing my answer. I try to say yes when I can, but sometimes of course, the best answer is still "no." And I might offer a reason behind the "no". That's not healthy or whatever. Sometimes the answer can be, "I need to think about that, I'll let you know later." or just, "No, I don't have a good feeling about that." Parenting intuition is a thing. That is a legit answer.</li>
<li>Strike 3: The definitive end of the discussion. This is your last chance to change your answer to the child's question. At this point you need to be firm and conclusive with your statement. "Okay, as long as you eat a good dinner." That's fine. It's totally okay for you to change your original answer - maybe you didn't think it through. Maybe they made a good point. It shows consideration for the child. Whether the answer is yes or no, that must be the end of the discussion. You can actually say, "...and that is the end of the discussion." If they keep pushing it, don't take the bait. Maybe remind them once or twice you aren't talking about that anymore, if this is new to them. If they are very strong willed and and screaming their demands at epic levels, if you can't ignore them and continue on as a sane human being, this would be a good time for consequences to kick in. But The idea is that the kids learn they can't keep pushing to get what you want - once a decision is final, that's it - and the parent doesn't get to the point where they loose their temper and descend to negative parenting practices.</li>
</ol>
<b><br /></b>
<b>3 Strikes: Consequences Edition</b><br />
<br />
Sometimes parents think that using anger as a consequence is acceptable because maybe their parents did it with them, and it works! Yes, anger might work in the moment. If you yell, rage, or hit, it can indeed deter behavior. But most parents know the damage that causes. Emotionally, it sets children up for anxiety and depression, not to mention rage issues. It is also damaging to relationships. To the parenting relationship as well as to the child's other relationships: kids are more likely to bully, to learn that acting on anger is an acceptable way to treat and be treated. There are tons of studies, feel free to research.<br />
<br />
So.<br />
<br />
How to discipline, sans anger: <br />
<br />
You can administer consequences the way a police officer administers a ticket. A good officer doesn't take it personally, he doesn't scream and stomp or treat you disrespectfully. He writes you a ticket and says, "Have a nice day." This kind of zen can be hard in the heat of a parenting moment, but if someone walks into the room and sees you at conflict with your child, they should be able to tell who is the adult by more than just your size. Meaning, as the adult and the teacher in the situation, you get to model self control, respect, and love to your child. This is what that can look like:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Strike 1: You have set a rule. A misbehavior has occurred. For a new behavior you are starting to teach, a verbal correction is appropriate. "Remember, we don't watch TV on school nights."</li>
<li>Strike 2: Same misbehavior occurs. Verbal correction, add on consequence warning. "No, it's a school night so no TV. If you turn it on again, you won't get to pick a book tonight. </li>
<li>Strike 3: Misbehavior occurs third time: "Okay - you turned it on again, so when you ask to read a book tonight, and I say no, remember it's because you broke the rule." Always follow through. The child knows they can trust you this way, and has the security of healthy boundaries. Consistency is key. Accountability is key.</li>
</ol>
<br />
*Note on consequences: there are obviously different levels of consequences to fit different levels of misbehavior. "Parking ticket" level consequences for minor infractions might be: loosing a book, loosing dessert, extra chores, natural consequences like, "you peed on the seat so you have to clean the toilet." I like that one. Heavier ones can be administered for repeated offenses. And they are so different for each child. I have one child who looooves candy and pouring all his gumballs into the trash after a repeated offense was pretty traumatizing for him. Another child couldn't care less about gumballs. As parents, we generally know what makes our kids tick. I do <i>not</i> take felony-level consequences lightly and throw them out willy nilly. They might happen once a year or less. I love my kids and want them to be happy. I just don't think that happiness is the be-all and end-all, and that discomforting them from time to time is a necessary part of parenting, to help them be successful in life and in relationships, and some times that means bringing out the tough consequences.<br />
<br />
<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-32772219590810151882019-01-04T18:56:00.000-08:002019-01-04T19:21:53.188-08:00A Healthy Christmas: True StoryThis Christmas we didn't travel or make gingerbread houses, but we also didn't get sick so, it was AMAZING! If you have your health you have everything, so they say, and you know, being healthy is pretty awesome. We always have someone sick over the holidays. Always!<br />
<br />
So there's that. And also:<br />
<br />
I went into the holidays with a little more intention than years past. Historically, I have overloaded our December calendar with all the stuff. I say yes to all the stuff, bake all the stuff/eat all the stuff. Fear of missing out on anything Christmas has driven me to overindulge, to the detriment of physical and mental health. But thanks to some healthier thinking I've been working on this year, before Thanksgiving I did something rather genius, if I say so myself: I thought ahead and considered how I want to feel coming out of the holidays. Rather than creating a grand master list of all I wanted to do and how to squeeze the most out of the holidays, I visualized a post-holiday me, feeling uplifted, clear-headed, rested, spiritually fulfilled, healthy, heart-warmed, and grateful and generous, and went from there. I recalled that picture in my head as I made choices. Oh, we still baked cookies. We still did plenty of the fun stuff. But we had more wholesome, relaxed, "doesn't have to be perfect" fun than the fun that wears you down, or fun that has to meet some grand expectation. The glitz and glamor did not trump the general spirit and meaning of the season this year, and Momma did not loose her freaking mind.<br />
<br />
Here's the list of what made the cut on this year's Christmas:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>Christmas 2018 Memories</b> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(including pictures mostly from my insta)</div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Shopping with the kids individually, hearing their deliberations on
what to get whom, and handing their own money to the cashier and
counting their change with a shrewd eye. Then having an enjoyable conversation about sales
tax.</li>
<li>Singing with the choir in the Ward Christmas program</li>
<li>Christmas concerts and singing the Hallelujah chorus</li>
<li>Nutcracker ballet at the Landmark Center</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7IpGeSNgb5N0FTqD0nmvjdqv1A_w32eTnggdg3wsxiHHh4u0okv_wV0c_kQEmkvj8ACr0bjBXb46z_4_XKDSK362r-cEGShWSVgmR6fRUaNLClNcKf0_d8cVQh2eyQKvA5xDzSp1DMt8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-01-04+at+2.21.14+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="510" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7IpGeSNgb5N0FTqD0nmvjdqv1A_w32eTnggdg3wsxiHHh4u0okv_wV0c_kQEmkvj8ACr0bjBXb46z_4_XKDSK362r-cEGShWSVgmR6fRUaNLClNcKf0_d8cVQh2eyQKvA5xDzSp1DMt8/s400/Screen+Shot+2019-01-04+at+2.21.14+PM.jpg" width="353" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li> Caroling with choir members and their kids</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3Hhuo4nF4lCr6z0Hh4bWaz6DyZdGxQ4oODWSRrRx-8nJwPsXL81dJ5JV_oEjBp3w6G28_uPkgaCmyek63UYYw4WUIv_SsoIgPLVbCB-EsehYsq17PVqDp_ZNPylsQMil68F45v628DI/s1600/IMG_5116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1154" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3Hhuo4nF4lCr6z0Hh4bWaz6DyZdGxQ4oODWSRrRx-8nJwPsXL81dJ5JV_oEjBp3w6G28_uPkgaCmyek63UYYw4WUIv_SsoIgPLVbCB-EsehYsq17PVqDp_ZNPylsQMil68F45v628DI/s640/IMG_5116.JPG" width="598" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Making snowflakes and hanging them up</li>
<li>Service at a food pantry: They filled food bags with such intensity, and wanted to go back the following day.</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li>Visit to Santa</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3AllzcmQqdLyJf6wLjGu6Hfe4ijL7gvVa7AH9i1y1YcwHFEtSD7SINAgFUbHMYysJFZii21MXuKMh4PiTmL5ZmTGSw85WHvLiiRlZefR6t02JowkyOwDBZl1NXOzZnV0GdK7oFb6XG0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-01-04+at+2.28.41+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="481" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3AllzcmQqdLyJf6wLjGu6Hfe4ijL7gvVa7AH9i1y1YcwHFEtSD7SINAgFUbHMYysJFZii21MXuKMh4PiTmL5ZmTGSw85WHvLiiRlZefR6t02JowkyOwDBZl1NXOzZnV0GdK7oFb6XG0/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-01-04+at+2.28.41+PM.jpg" width="515" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Cookie decorating</li>
</ul>
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<br />
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<ul>
<li>Christmas Eve white elephant party</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li>"Sleep over" in the basement, watching holiday baking show and eating popcorn</li>
<li>Reading the Christmas Carol</li>
<li>Reading the scriptures</li>
<li>Brunch with friends</li>
<li>Church Christmas social</li>
<li>Family nativity on Christmas morning, very much winged it. Still spiritual.</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li>Christmas church service followed by cookie munch and mingle </li>
<li>Relief Society paint night of the Babe in a Manger</li>
<li>Christmas Cards/letter: writing of, receiving of</li>
<li>Ice Skating (Dave and the bigs - I stayed home with the littles. And I'm fine with that.)</li>
<li>Hand-made gifts for teachers: embroidery on fabric to cover candy jar lids </li>
</ul>
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<br />
Looking at this list I think, I actually could have pared down a bit more. But I do <i>love</i> all those fun Christmas activities. And I see in this list so much loving on others and being loved on, it really is a magical time.<br />
<br />
I have this plaque that Mom gave us for Christmas one year - I think the last Christmas before she passed - that says, "The magic of Christmas never ends, because it's greatest gift is family and friends." I never thought about it beyond surface value, but it struck me this year in a new way. Christmas brings us together with family and friends, which is the best part of all those fun activities. But more than that, Christ's coming to earth and conquering death made it possible for us to have our loved ones forever. God's gift of his beloved son, and Christ's gift of his life and power, means that we do indeed have our loved ones with us forever. Those relationships will never end. And that is the magic of Christmas.<br />
<br />
Linus said it better.<br />
<br />
Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! <br />
<br />
<br />
PS: Only 355 days till next Christmas ;) Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-55760049699523261762019-01-02T09:01:00.000-08:002019-01-02T09:01:49.793-08:00Post-Holiday PoetryThe Conundrum<br />
<br />
When the tree's on the curb,<br />
And the lights packed away,<br />
When the house is all quiet,<br />
And the kids at school for the day,<br />
What do you do?<br />
How do you play?<br />
When the holidays finish?<br />
What do you say?<br />
<br />
Do you take a nap?<br />
Give the house a good clean?<br />
Go to the store,<br />
To buy grocery's and things?<br />
Do you detox from the sugar,<br />
Or relax with a cocoa,<br />
Enjoy a moment to yourself,<br />
with out all the loco?<br />
<br />
What about goals, resolutions and such?<br />
Are you diving right in,<br />
Or don't care that much?<br />
Are you list-makers listings<br />
Your to-dos with gust-o<br />
Or taking a well-earned break,<br />
and Netflixing a show?<br />
<br />
Manicures? Pedicures? Paying the bills?<br />
Getting a workout, climbing some hills?<br />
Baking some cookies, writing a poem?<br />
Thank-you cards? Laundry?<br />
Making calls on your phone?<br />
<br />
Seriously, when holidays are over, babies down for a nap,<br />
When big kids are in school,<br />
And quiet feels like a trap,<br />
How do you choose,<br />
What do you find?<br />
<br />
....Wait, nap time's over?<br />
Well shoot.<br />
Nevermind.<br />
<br />
Also: Thank you, teachers! I love you. You, personally, I love. And I think you're amazing.<br />
<br />
God bless!Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-78857985257431062592018-12-03T07:26:00.000-08:002018-12-03T07:32:35.744-08:00A Christmas story from Christmas Past, and a few pics from Christmas CurrentThis morning as I was hiding from the kids (in one of their rooms because I'm sneaky like that) I had time to reflect about the quilt laid out on the bed in front of me. This particular quilt was made by my mother, about 10 years ago, long before she got cancer and all that heart break. The quilt is a t-shirt quilt, rather garish in colors, being as it was made from my high school and college t-shirts. The story behind this one always brings a little smirk to my face, as I remember how coniving my kind, pure, "without guile" mother could be. Because you know how you surprise someone with a meaningful t-shirt quilt? You steal their meaningful t-shirts. While they are out of the country! I returned from my 18 month church mission in England, fully expecting to have my old wardrobe waiting for me, and of course it wasn't. When I asked Mom though, she first said, "Oh, it should be all in those bags." When I pressed her with specifics (what about my Dr. Seusse shirt, and Rolling Stones, vacation and soccer shirts?) she "had no idea! Maybe...they got donated?" I chalked it up to one of those sacrifices a missionary makes, a casualty to the cause, and assumed I'd never learn the ending of the missing shirts. But almost 2 years later, all came to light in the most surprising Christmas gift I've ever received: the gift of a stolen t-shirt quilt. Mom can churn out quilts like nobodies business, in a matter of weeks even, but this one took so long because...SHE CONTINUED STEALING MY SHIRTS! A Jamba Juice work shirt I brought home over break that never made it back to work, as well as the Salt Lake City marathon t-shirt, silky, sweat-wicking fabric notwithstanding, were the final additions on this diabolical masterpiece, this elaborate heist. And gosh, how I love it.<br />
It reminds me that Mom and I are more alike than I once thought.<br />
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<br />
I always wax a little nostalgic during the Christmas season. It's a bitter-sweet magic, sometimes. But still, magic.<br />
<br />
Here is a little more of that Christmas magic, from 2018:<br />
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Santa's workshop. Aka Home Depot, where they do free crafts for the kids on the first Saturday of every month. Not pictured: free popcorn, as part of their "get your furnace serviced" promotion. Christmas magic, I tell you!<br />
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Yard decorating, and then Rudolf getting blown over in the short blizzard we had December first.<br />
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Ward Christmas party and Primary performance. Always wonderful.</div>
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And two little handwritten signs created during the Christmas devotional last night. The first, by Joe, was taped to a rocket and sling-shot into my lap while I was sitting by Dave. The second, by Riley, is a sort of instruction sheet on how to use the mistletoe. Although Joe has adapted the rule to allow for hugging if you're not a big kisser. I must say, that mistletoe has already gotten a lot of mileage this season. I rarely can walk into the kitchen without having to stop and give some little person a kiss or cuddle first.<br />
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So yes, we are deep in it, my friends, and be warned, if we see you in the next 3 weeks, we will probably hug you and wish you a Merry Christmas. And then a happy New Years. And then, a...tolerable January? Haha! I need to find something to look forward to about January. I saw on Facebook a 100 mile January challenge. Like, running 100 miles in January to start your New Year off strong. I'm still mulling over that one. I run about half that at the moment - 3 miles a day, 4 or 5 days a week. I haven't been in a running phase for a good...7 years, so maybe it's time. But if you have any, less tiring ways to be excited about January, do send them my way. I'm open. :)</div>
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Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-34598244851907869692018-11-22T10:51:00.001-08:002018-11-22T14:48:12.525-08:00Not Your Grandma's Thanksgiving Story (hopefully)Gather round, friends, for a tale of woe and horror this Thanksgiving night (it's afternoon but for our purposes...)<br />
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One cold and windy Thanksgiving Eve, I with focus and great care, was brushing my first-born's hair. From the basement I heard a shout. "Mom! Come see this!" Sleepy and still in my morning funk, I responded with a sour, "Not right now," and carried on with the hair. I barely registered the thump of feet up the stairs, but then the door opened and a child's voice innocently asked, "So, is this a fake one, or a dead one." "That makes no sense..." I began, turning to look over my shoulder, and shrieked when I saw that in my sons hands, clamped in a pair of pliers, was a mouse, held helpfully at eye level.<br />
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With a scream, Riley and I made a dash for an adjoining room, startling Joe, who dropped the pliers and the mouse, causing our overgrown puppy to bound for the kitchen. I barely snagged his collar as he lunged for the mouse, and, after kenneling the dog, ran through some mental exercises to snag an anxiety attack by the collar as well. Sending the kids from the room, I grabbed a shoe box and scooped the offending rodent (dead, now confirmed) into the box and out to the trash just in time for morning pickup. As I stood on the curb, contemplating my narrow escape and watching the garbage truck's long arm lift the truck, I saw with horror the shoe box teeter and fall out of the can and onto the lawn. I made to pick it up, but the kindly garbage man beat me too it and without ever knowing he actually held a tiny coffin, tossed it unceremoniously into the heap. I fervently thanked the man, before turning to drag our bin back up to the house. <br />
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Would that the story ended there... Alas, we found a few mouse calling cards today under the couch. On our family puzzle, actually, which we keep on a giant drip pan under the couch and slide it out on slow days like today. I binned the puzzle, sterilized the area, and then gosh darn it, while preparing Thanksgiving dinner I discovered further evidence in the kitchen. I don't know that anything has ever brought me so quickly to the brink of panic as discovering mouse leavings in our cupboard.<br />
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Which is why I am thankful for stores that are open on Thanksgiving. Multiple mouse traps have been purchased (and the turkey bag - I always forget to get the turkey bag) and hidden about the house. The workers at Walmart have been fervently thanked - I'm so grateful for employees that keep the store running so a person can make emergency mouse trap runs when need be. Because of them, I was able to finish a simple Thanksgiving dinner (we had planned on gathering with friends but are continuing our tradition of being sick on Thanksgiving, so home we stay) and relax in the knowledge that those little varmints are going down.<br />
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Happy Thanksgiving!<br />
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PS: Lil Bet is the only one dressed up because I bought this dress back when I was pregnant with Henry, before we found out he was a boy. Well, I now happen to have a girl baby, years later, that happens to fit it, so gosh darn it she's going to wear it. Nevermind if the rest of us look like hoodlums.<br />
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<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-59940522258346148932018-11-13T19:54:00.001-08:002018-11-13T19:54:50.711-08:00Fall...ing in love, with winter Fall, you beautiful beast you. We've had a tremendous fall. The weather has been charmingly unpredictable, with snow on one exciting Sunday early in October, and then we had a balmy 65 degrees to Trick or Treat in on Halloween. We made time for certain beloved fall activities (apple picking, leaf raking, family pictures) and skipped some of the good/not best ones (ahem, school Halloween dance). <br />
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<i>This</i> morning it was 7 degrees when we woke up and scraped frost off our window (the one with the poor casing, obviously...). Seven. De. Grees. That is cold, friends. It's past the point of flexibility with your toddlers winter wear: sorry, H - your wearing your coat whether you like it or not. At twenty degrees, I'll let him walk outside sans coat because he then will cooperate getting into it. But at 7... nah, son - coats go on <i>before</i> we open the door. But be ye not dismayed: there is no bad weather, only bad clothing for the weather. At least, that's what Bishop Foster told us when we first moved to MN 6 years ago. He's mostly right. A down coat goes a long way in a frigid tree-lighting ceremony or neighborhood hockey match. Pro tip.<br />
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6 years! Has it been that long?? I mean, we have moved like, 6 times since then, with various jobs and schooling and whatnot, but the bulk of those years we've been in Minnesota, slowly developing a heartier attitude and aptitude for cold and an extra layer or two of insulating fat stores. Go us! As lovely as MN summers are, with their music in the park and 10,000 lakes and 80+state parks and camping and impressive network of bike trails...despite all that, I think Fall and Winter remain my favorites. They bring out the heartiness of the people, and a deepened sense of community. We're a bunch of vikings, but instead of the violence and plundering, we're lustily digging each others cars out of snow drifts.<br />
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And Hygge! The hygge of winter! Candles, books, plaid throws, hot chocolate and rocking chairs, decorations of winter greenery and berries, bread baking in the oven and stew on the stove. The hush on the world that comes with snow, the ruddy cheeks smiling above thick scarves. Boots. Boots. Woolen tights, and boots. People congregating in each others homes to share a meal and pass a long winter evening with a puzzle or a card game, or quietly sitting by the fire and knitting something soft. It is a magical, restful time.<br />
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Don't get me wrong - I don't want a Narnia plunged in eternal winter. Part of the charm definitely is knowing that spring and summer will have their turn.<br />
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But, Lady Winter: you are a delight.<br />
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*Another pro tip: sun lamps to keep you Vitamin D needs happy are very affordable these days: we got ours <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075TSR3X2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1">here</a><br />
*If you don't love your stew recipe, try <a href="https://www.mrshappyhomemaker.com/best-ever-beef-stew/">this one</a> - you won't regret it<br />
*The kids and I are reading Miracles on Maple Hill, and it is the warmest of warm fuzzies from my childhood. I remember reading that in bed under a quilt in the middle of the day during Christmas break and being <i>swept</i> <i>away</i>. I read through the whole book in a day, only emerging from my room to grab rolls and yoohoo. Funny how certain books have an impact on you, to the point where you can remember the details of the day you first read them, even 25 years later. <br />
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*I've said it before but, I really am going to try for a weekly blog post going forward. I love looking back on earlier years and seeing the babies and seeing how our lives have evolved, and I deeply desire to share more regular updates for loved ones who care and wish to be more involved in our lives, many of whom are not on social media (which is where my short, quipy updates go on the day-to-day, for convenience sake). So stay tuned :)<br />
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Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-12373027588228914882018-03-03T20:31:00.001-08:002018-03-03T20:50:21.616-08:00Betty LouiseI made another human (Dave helped):<br />
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Here is the birth story, as taken from my emails sent to family that very night, slightly edited for correctness. It all happened so fast - this was the first time it was just Dave and I there for the delivery (along with the dozen or so strangers circulating in and out of the room, of course.) It was lucky that even Dave was there! Despite feeling contractions since 3am that morning, I wasn't sure I was in labor - having only been induced before - until about two hours before she came rushing into the world. Basically shot out of a human cannon. So Dave didn't have a clue until two hours before she was born. But I digress; here are the emails:<br />
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Subject: We had a baby!<br />
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"This nameless, perfect, squishy little creature was born at 2:04. We are
both doing well. I’m sitting in a dim room by myself while Dave is picking up
the other kids from various locations and bringing them back to meet
her.<br />
<br />
Whirlwind day! I’ve always been induced before because of
late babies and/or time constraints (mom flying home or moving to MN) so
this was a new experience. I started having painful contractions and
back labor at 3am but thought maybe it was from doing too much -
major nesting going on lately. This morning I took the kids to school
and dropped Henry off with a friend so I could go to the DMV and take a
test for my MN license. I was sucking in air periodically but still
wondered: indigestion? I then went to the library to print off some
forms and then to the store to get bread. Didn’t make it into the store, simply because I was in too much pain to make it across the parking lot. Called the hospital - hadn’t timed my contractions exactly, with all the
errands and driving around, but the nurse said come and we’ll check
you. Then I called Dave, not sure if he needed to leave work, but I had a
contraction while talking and there was crying and wordless yelling and that had him moving pretty quick.
We planned to met up at home, a close rendezvous point as I didn’t
think I should be driving. I got there first and when I got out of the
car, I felt a gush. My water broke! I was excited - ok yes, I am in labor -
and at the same time I was horrified. Oh. No. It’s going to get worse. I went in the house to
change...<br />
<br />
TBC<br />
<br />
Email #2<br />
<br />
"...hospitals are busy places.<br />
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<br />
Anyway, Dave came home soon after and slipped in the amniotic fluid upon
entering. It was very satisfying in a Hollywood sense. Together we got
me into dry clothes and back in the car, then drove the 12 minutes to
the hospital in...less than 12 minutes. We were lucky not to get pulled over. Although I think Dave might have enjoyed that drama. I felt
another contraction coming as we walked into the hospital, and I made it as far as the
waiting room before kneeling on a chair and banging my head on the
backrest till it passed. Dignity where art thou? We checked in <a dir="ltr" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" rel="nofollow" shape="rect">at
1:30</a>. We were in triage, to make sure I was in labor (haha!) when it
really amped up and sounds were coming from me I didn’t know I could
make. Like a foghorn, or perhaps a typhoon. The
nurse, Kevin, plugged his ears. Dave said it wasn’t
as bad as the lady next to me, who sounded like a rooster. By the time
they got me in a delivery room, about <a dir="ltr" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" rel="nofollow" shape="rect">1:50</a>,
the pressure was so intense, I refused to sit on the bed like they
asked (to get an iv in). I really felt like I needed to be kneeling on
the bed. Poor Kevin had a hard time convincing me, but got it done. There was no opportunity for the pain meds I desired through the iv though - birth was too near.
The doctor (Doc Harper) arrived just as I had
to push. It was the most bizarre pressure and mental weirdness to push
through, but boy was I keen to get her out and be done with
contractions, so I did it. Two contractions, right Dave? She was born at
2:04. Today, 2/21/2018. Once I had her in my arms I was a little stunned - it was hard to believe she was here! No one comes on time in our family, much less early! Also, I didn't really feel like celebrating - without pain killers, delivering the placenta was another uncomfortable experience. Once that was through I was able to coo over her sweet little lips. Another difference in this delivery: she wasn't in the birth canal long enough for her head to take on that cone shape that the others had for a day or so. Her head was pretty normal looking.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbTv01G5mIaBZyxJkxmAQYKH8jnNm1V6RVhnPXm_m_8WvFHpKqW6Ul9wMPag1UpS57QVA74tkHzRTSPcY8rFh1ZP9qGTt8KtI8UTwRNlQGH8fHso1QYCRL_PR0a7uM5w1f_FFnEkHhN4/s1600/IMG_3750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbTv01G5mIaBZyxJkxmAQYKH8jnNm1V6RVhnPXm_m_8WvFHpKqW6Ul9wMPag1UpS57QVA74tkHzRTSPcY8rFh1ZP9qGTt8KtI8UTwRNlQGH8fHso1QYCRL_PR0a7uM5w1f_FFnEkHhN4/s400/IMG_3750.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Harper</td></tr>
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About five minutes after giving birth, we got a serious lecture from nurse Kevin about not letting her do 21 shots on her 21st birthday and having her die of
alcohol toxicity. Kevin was kind of an interesting guy, but it is sound advice
nonetheless.<br />
There were no complications, no tearing or dizziness or anything. The baby was grouchy for a while till we figured out feeding, but on a full stomach she is extremely loving. Same as most I guess.<br />
I got
to see the placenta this time and they delayed cord clamping for a
little while. They also delay bathing the baby, she still has vernix in
her hair, six hours later.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't she lovely?!</td></tr>
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Update: just had a bath. No more vernix.<br />
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Dave went and got the kids at about 6pm from friends homes in the ward, and
Riley and Joe were happy to get some cuddles and ham it up for the
camera. Henry took a slight interest at first and then played in the
curtains. My friend Selena came and took pictures
- she did our family pictures in the fall and did a great job, so I’m
sure we got some sweet shots, even with labor fatigue (and just
relief) setting in and baby girls eyes still puffy from her shoved
through the birth canal. [She did indeed get some amazing shots, many of which you see in this post. Thanks, Selena!]<br />
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Dave took the kids home about 8pm - we decided he’d better stay with
them tonight. It’s been a wild day for them too, and Henry especially
depends on him at night. We moved Henry back into his crib just last
night for containment purposes - he will not stay
in his own bed, and usually ends up sleeping on Dave’s chest.<br />
The doctor said I can go home tomorrow if I want to. I might. I have
always stayed three days in the past, but I get a little stir crazy and
wanting my own bed. Hopefully we’ve settled on a name by tomorrow!<br />
<br clear="none" />
That’s all I can think of! I’m enjoying this very peaceful time (they
have meditation music on in my room and nature scenes on the TV
screensaver. It is very peaceful:) and feeling so grateful that all my
birth worries were mostly unfulfilled. Well, all were,
actually - I didn’t really worry about the painful stuff, always having
had an epidural before. But all is well, hallelujah! The kids were taken
good care of, Dave was with me when I needed him, the baby is healthy,
the nurses are lovely, I’m recovering well.
Blessed day for us!"<br />
<br />
The 24 hour hospital stay proved to be one of the most peaceful I'd experienced, maybe because our room was at the end of the hallway and we were one of only like three mother/babies in the wing. Betty only left me once for tests, and the rest of the exams, baths, etc, took place right by my bed, which I loved so I could ask any questions and see what the doctor was looking for.<br />
<br />
I was treated to aromatherapy and massage, room service, and then Dave ran me a hot lavender bath before handing me an intriguing little jewelry box, inside of which was a pair of beautiful earrings. It made me feel like a million bucks! No small miracle for a woman who is one day postpartum, let me tell you! Every time I think of it, I want to kiss his face off. That Dave: he's the sweetest, and I love him.<br />
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No amount of pampering can take the place of your own bed though, so I decided that yes, I would check out a day early. We settled on a name just an hour before time to checkout. Betty Louise, after both our Grandmas: amazing women whose names carry a legacy to inspire and uplift our little girl throughout her life. <br />
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Dave took a total of 3 days off for the baby and headed back to work on Monday, but we have been so well taken care of with meals and visits and gifts from friends, coworkers, and church family. Suzette flew in mid-week and has been a huge help taking care of people and making sure the other siblings feel loved while Momma is busy nursing or napping or doing what women have to do in recovery.<br />
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Here is a video with clips of her first week on earth. It has been a wonderful week. So. Much. Love.<br />
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<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-15034271814259063542018-02-24T11:18:00.004-08:002018-02-24T11:18:38.078-08:00Christmas 2017Another magical time from 2017: Christmas. We were again blessed with a visit from family - the Harrelds flew out from UT, and we spent Christmas Eve with Don's mother and siblings and their families. I didn't take any pictures, but there were lively games and delicious food and Christmas movies and all the laughter and bustle entailed by large family gatherings. It was wonderful. Then we got the kids in their Christmas pajamas and headed home in the snow. Don did a dramatic reading of the Night Before Christmas and the kids were eager to get to bed so Santa could do his thing.<br />
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Of course it was a late night, and the kids actually slept long enough for me to get cinnamon rolls in the oven. Per my families tradition, they got to open their Santa gifts first, and then we read the Christmas story before opening the rest.<br />
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Everyone made out like bandits. We got the kids scooters and nerf guns, Henry got a bedtime board book with family pictures in it. And about a million other gifts, each one so thoughtful and very well received. When Riley came in and saw her gifts from Santa she said, "Oh, I thought I was good, and I was!!"<br />
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Christmas meals: Cinnamon rolls for breakfast, chicken and wild rice soup with rosemary grilled cheese for lunch (I'm thinking a new Christmas tradition there) and ham and cheesey potatoes with rolls, green beans and chocolate cake for dinner. It was all pretty simple and mostly prepared ahead of time because I didn't want to be a stressed maniac on Christmas, and it was lovely. <br />
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Aaaand Christmas bowling: it was a little tricky to keep Henry from taking a dive down a lane, but we all made it out in one piece. I think Dave and Suzette were mostly in the lead, and I was definitely in the caboose. I blame it on the bowling ball I was carrying on my middle. <br />
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Not pictured: Crazy cold temperatures and a roaring fire in the wood-burning stove.<br />
It was pretty perfect! We were sad to say goodbye the next day. Luckily, the kids were easily distracted by all their great gifts. Thanks to everyone who helped make our Christmas so special. <br />
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Other Christmas activities: attending the Nutcracker highlights performance at the Landmark center by the St. Paul ballet troupe (and the kids getting to dance with them this year!)<br />
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Lots of Christmas baking - Dad got us the Polar Express in gingerbread house kit form, and of course we did sugar cookies.<br />
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Church. Here is Joe and his adorable teacher, Sis. Garbow, and a very special Christmas gift she brought him. Then in church on Christmas Eve (saved by the emergency dum-dums when the service - excellent that it was - went long.<br />
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The Primary Christmas performance at the ward party<br />
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Sledding.<br />
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Ice skating! This is at the park right by our house. Riley and Joe are always itching to go skating. Me, not so much. But Dave is game - ever since the first time we moved to MN he's enjoyed hockey and skating, and likes to share that with the kids (and me, when I'm not pregnant). Last time they went out, a couple weeks ago, he took Henry out on the ice in a stroller. Much fun was had by all.<br />
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As I finish this post, the decorations are stowed back under the stairs, the days are getting noticeably lighter longer, and we are starting to dream of spring and summer (nevermind the snowstorms we are currently in the middle of). But how I love all these Christmas memories. It truly is a magical time of year.</div>
Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-27212620807829021452018-02-10T18:46:00.001-08:002018-02-10T18:46:50.546-08:00Thanksgiving 2017I'll just mention: I made a new years goal to blog more - it's such a wonderful way of recording these priceless baby years we will only have once. I love reading old posts. So while I lack motivation to do it, these couple weeks before the baby comes, and dealing with sickness and injury rather a lot lately, seems like the time to make good on that goal.<br />
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THANKSGIVING<br />
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We were so blessed to have Dad come out this year for Thanksgiving, our first in our own home! It wasn't perfect. Sickness! Dang you! Dad had a bug himself his last day with us and for weeks after he got home. So sad! But still...it was a very homey, tasty Thanksgiving, and he brought the party and a lot of joy for us all. Made it feel Thanksgiving-y.<br />
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We did our traditional meal - turkey, cornbread stuffing, cranberry sauce shaped like a can...I also discovered too late that I didn't have a pre-made pie crust so did an easy one I found through google and it turned out great! Nice when that happens. <br />
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It was a cold Thanksgiving day, but we made it to the church Turkey Bowl, and got out to the parks a couple times while Dad was here. <br />
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Day after Thanksgiving we went to a farm and cut our own Christmas tree, after much debate. It was a Frasier Fir, and it lasted through Christmas and beyond, fresh and fragrant.<br />
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With Grandpa here to babysit, Dave and I went to see A Christmas Carol at the Guthrie and it was EXCELLENT. If I could marry a story, I'd marry that one. Seeing it on a stage so wonderfully performed was, well, like a kid at Christmas.<br />
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What a great Dad/Granpa. Thanks for making our Thanksgiving so special! <br />
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<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-39325032300963125652018-02-10T17:25:00.001-08:002018-02-10T17:25:27.262-08:00Halloween 2017So far behind...lets dive in shall we? (And I feel compelled to say I just had to check the year to make sure it was correct. That is my brain these days.)<br />
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Halloween...and other fall festivities<br />
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We went to the Fall Harvest apple orchard this year and it was a success. Apples: good. Petting zoo: good. Corn pit: yes. There were a ton of free activities for the children. We picked and paid for 15 pounds of apples (the 5 pounds we ate while picking were free :) and made apple sauce and pie. What's more, the hour drive it takes to get there is gorgeous - much of it follows a river and there are quaint farm houses and churches and fall foliage everywhere. A very satisfactory trip from start to finish. BUT: I still like the apple cider donuts from Apple Jacks orchard. I don't remember even seeing them here. So.<br />
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Neighborhood trick-or-treating: the neighbors get really into it and there are all kinds of spooky decor, bonfires, and music along with treats (and adult beverages) up and down the block. The kids (Spiderman and Supergirl) had a blast - ended up joining forces with a gang of kids, which was handy when Joe fell in the bushes and scattered his candy everywhere and everyone helped him pick it up. So I heard - Henry and I went home early because 1)it was freezing. Like 10 degrees. and 2)gotta hand out candy. Henry wouldn't fool with a costume this year. He went as a confused, cold baby.<br />
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Our three-faced punkin.<br />
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Church trunk-or-treat. The youth put this together and did a great job! Lots of games and hotdogs before heading out to the parking lot for trunk-or-treat, and it was over in an hour! My kind of party!<br />
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And that in a nutshell...I tried to pare down the Halloween festivities this time around. It seems like I usually burn out on all the activities long before the actual day so this year was a nice change. Plus, I was still quite sick from pregnancy and this changes your priorities, doesn't it? But the kids got their fill, of candy and fun. I told them if they picked out 10 pieces of candy, I'd buy the rest from them for five bucks and they were immediately on board. Kids get so sugared out this holiday, I don't think they even had to consider it. And Dave and I only recently finished off the spoils (3 months later). Win, win!<br />
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Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-62435826291120537842017-10-27T15:57:00.001-07:002017-11-01T21:50:17.444-07:00Four Months Later...Jay Cooke State Park Camping!Events of the past four months: birthdays, vacations, family reunion at Topsail Island, kids started school...and about a hundred other things I'm forgetting and may or may not ever be documented on this here blog. But today is a good day to start catching up. It's the first snow! It's lovely and watching from the windows in our cozy little house, (oh yeah, and we bought a house a few months ago), The snow is still drifting down and is sticking to every twig and branch so that even while the ground is not yet frozen, the trees look like a winter wonderland. It is the most marvelous first snow you could ask for. And while Henry naps (hallelujah. Boy did he/I need it) I am going to get busy recording some recent good old-fashioned family fun:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Camping at Jay Cooke State Park</span></div>
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When the leaves started to turn, we decided to get up north to see the fall colors and squeeze one more camping trip in before it snowed (how well did that work out??). Minnesotans love to camp in the fall, apparently - there was nary a site available on a weekend until October 13th. Works out - since we got married on Friday the 13th, whenever one comes along we try to do something special.<br />
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I had an idea that while we were up there, we'd take a day trip to see some <a href="https://www.lakesuperior.com/the-lake/maritime/264-the-lighthouses-of-western-lake-superior/">lighthouses</a> and explore Lake Superior's southwest shore. Turns out that Jay Cooke is enough of an attraction on it's own - we didn't leave the park once.<br />
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It was chilly but beautiful our first day - we watched the sun set on
the swinging bridge and clambered over giant, glacier-churned rock
formations.<br />
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"Ok, put your arms around each other, I'm going to take your picture." Ha.<br />
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That night we had a ceremonial last s'more and wienie roast and tucked the kids into the sleeping bags dressed in their thermals and hats and socks. The stars were so clear and bright - you forget about that when your usual city lights keep the sky fairly dark. It was gorgeous and so nice to just sit by the camp fire and talk to my other half. He's a good one. He's a good one to have on a camping trip too. A tent-setting up/taking down, fire-building, baby-wrangling wizard.<br />
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We cut our trip short to avoid a night-long freezing rain our last night (nobody wants to pack a co1d, wet tent). But we had our fill. We had our adventure, and then we went home and thoroughly enjoyed sleeping in our own snug beds while the rain drummed on the roof. As much as I love camping with my family out in nature, I might like that feeling of coming home even more.<br />
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*How about that camp bathroom selfie.<br />
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If you zoom in, you'll see...<br />
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This cutie:<br />
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* #munionpartyofsix <br />
* February 2018<br />
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<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-27834281287859328572017-06-03T03:23:00.002-07:002017-06-03T04:02:27.790-07:00Midnight Musings: ParenthoodActually, 3am musings...but midnight sounds better<br />
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ahem.<br />
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Guy on the trail today, "Babies! Oh, Mamas, you are so lucky!"<br />
Me to other mama: "Yeah, you know, he' right."<br />
Other Mama: "He is."<br />
Joe: "Huh, that guy was weird."<br />
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Haha! He <i>was</i> a bit cooky! Tall, white haired older guy with 80's themed, colorful clothes. We saw him while walking around Lake Harriet with friends today and I've been thinking of him and what he said. It was another of those, "don't blink or you'll miss it" reminders. Happened again this afternoon in the grocery store parking lot. A grandma across the lane in the parking lot stopped and waved and talked to Henry a little bit. He did not engage, but she was thrilled to make eye contact with this baby. Don't blink!<br />
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So here is what parenting looks like now:<br />
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It's wrapping up our first year with a kindergartner.<br />
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I was so torn up about sending her to school that first day...and for about 6 months after. Had I not felt spiritual confirmation that it was in her best interests to go to school, I would have pulled her for homeschooling. We all missed her terribly, and not having all my babies around me all the time felt like the end of a golden era. But how satisfying it has been to see her grow and develop and love learning, and her teacher and her classmates and and her lessons and her field trips. Every mini-essay, every video and picture sent by her teacher, every delighted story she shares over an after-school snack or at the dinner table, is absolutely filled to the brim with cuteness that melts me in a puddle of warm fuzzies. Watching her navigate social waters has been a little stressful - just be nice to my kid, kids! - but the triumphs have been sweet! I have felt to pray with her just before she walks out the door in the mornings that she will have the Spirit with her to help her learn a lot and to be a good friend to those around her, and you know, she has, on both counts! She is wonderful. School is wonderful. I look forward to the years ahead on this wild ride! And I wonder how long before she doesn't want me to crawl in bed with her at night so we can have a cuddle a heart-to-heart. Yesterday when I told her it was time for me to go out now and for her to go to sleep, she giggled and said, "Yeah, we are just a couple of girls chatting late at night. We just like each other so much!" We do like each other so much!<br />
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Parenting now is being quietly impressed with Joe's thoughtfulness in taking care of his baby brother and his own preparation for school starting in the fall. He's so smart. The other day he bit his pretzels into "rain drops" and then bit one into a "B" to spell "brain." Roll your eyes at my mother-doting - the way the kid thinks is just...cool. He also makes me count with him when we're in the car. I've counted to 100 more times than any sane person can handle (that's right, I'm insane now), and he's begun to try to count in patterns. "2+2=4, 4+4=8, 8+8=16, 16+16=....Mom! What comes next!" He gave us a run for our money the first 9 months of Henry's life in learning how to be gentle with a baby, but boy has he come into his role as big brother. He has learned to wrestle and not hurt him! (Henry LOVES it - is actually the instigator more often than not). Joe coo's and talks him down when Henry is hating his car seat. Joe does NOT believe in letting a baby cry for any length of time. More than once I've thought that Henry soothed himself and is now napping, when actually, it's just Joe is in there throwing his toys in his crib or entertaining him with his antics.<br />
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Parenting now is THE BABY! Still killing it with all that cuteness! Getting very good at communicating without saying actual words, just babbles, grunts, and head banging. Has mostly "baby-proofed" the house by now (read, already broken everything within his reach...). It's NOT BEING ABLE TO SLEEP more than 5 hours in a row because of his feeding habits, so, even though he actually hasn't woken up all night on this rare occasion, here I am, awake at 3:30am, writing about his highness (the allergies might also be to blame). Parenting is coming home from work and hoping to make it before he goes down so I can hear his baby roar and stomp-walk coming down the hall to greet me with outstretched arms. He is into anything and everything, but, that's what anything and everything is there for, right? No? Yes. He has pulled us all into his orbit and we all thoroughly enjoy being part of his world.<br />
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Glad I got that off my chest. Now, sleepy time.Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-53807646258526232622017-05-24T19:58:00.001-07:002017-05-24T19:58:38.123-07:00Ballerinas and Ballers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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See what I did there?<br />
<br />
Softball is back! What red-blooded American doesn't enjoy and night at the ball park, eh?<br />
<br />
Same
goes for a little one's ballet recital. So many warm fuzzies! All the
feels! It was the sweetest thing I've ever seen in my life. Here is a
video from the dress rehearsal. They were nervous, on stage under the
big lights. But they bravely carried on, smiling, "even though it was
hard to smile that whole time, Mom" and totally won the show. (If there
was a competition for cuteness.)<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/7Pf0VvJ7Wv4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7Pf0VvJ7Wv4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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The
dress rehearsal went great and then we had a girl's night with
Riley's friend and her mom. We went to dinner and shopping, and let
me tell you, it is getting so fun to shop with Riley - she has opinions.
"Ooh, that looks so good. Ooh, Dad would love that hot dog shirt." </div>
<br />
The
next day was pouring rain ALL day, but never mind. The first half of the
day we spent house hunting. With the kids, their raincoats and
umbrellas, in and out of the car, in and out of houses. Definitely the
best way to house hunt ;). Then we headed back to the auditorium for
another rehearsal right before the actual performance. Those girls were
super prepared. <br />
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<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBko7F7pQoZwiYPRg1yACQHU11XfIbcvd-Xw84Q0YeX7ofi4MVmD9kcFuhMSfYffOC07zEaI6CXRRMhNzTcGBzJoNrNf8snX5s8Q80_t4ZSORT5d-ONuCXVX_ss3NqkfVHt4eC2FwACo/s400/IMG_9821.JPG" width="300" /><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRUGnucIprXBBqVQ2H2zOm5mRswZ0wguVyKqplu0xqgRaE02L29N2t1tXvvT_T2_-J5Nig5kRhCkhCn433k1bhPrGqRkF6DYuDAU8Ui7TnDi71-4uhVPDYm4HeG0y1Bk8w2oi6HNrFNk/s400/IMG_9829.JPG" width="300" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Warming up.</div>
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Eagerly waiting the big reveal. We haven't watched any of her practices this year so we really didn't know what to expect.</div>
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(No pics during the actual performance, but here is one from the rehearsal)<br />
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<img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="773" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQP0PD7lkblYl_P2YEpzPs40Cvg7awGB3MBNSwGSGY5Dp7Hlo5xfIYAequoI10k8gjiwv7o6ERXH3lUe42UMJsD9tYS3oKVy6SFY6mxWE6HRfmY7lXajbgc8F74tQSJQYOKrhZ0eVHYY/s640/IMG_9953.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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They did such a great job! I was mush inside, absolutely melted.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Here
is Riley and Gracie, and Riley and Ms. Zachari. Their teacher does all
the choreography for all fifteen or so dances for all abilities and ages
- she is very, very talented. And Riley loves her - totally wants to be
a ballet teacher now. </div>
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<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE_HEQ9R6j0b2sosuGiJkF1WlU8bpYykMpDaf3PwhYM-xiUFsJVIIPCaxf9apyUVJmcdhOLtYADMtPZp8_ZKjjgudXfdbYzSuH0ierW6nsC5-x6K5SmV27fODzicuMfHGgQs0oZSquUsQ/s400/IMG_9867.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhFGsBLW_dX98M5aRxa7gr1kPKoxZLY8AfGvMx5uIwuZZJXdHDSu6Tn7-QkXwYJbRTPNxAWLWgpSRohH_socgAqRC3odCWkUGP-nF0ORMBGpjG2Jj4OJVI-JEob73BSDw4DreR50I9kA/s1600/IMG_9873.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhFGsBLW_dX98M5aRxa7gr1kPKoxZLY8AfGvMx5uIwuZZJXdHDSu6Tn7-QkXwYJbRTPNxAWLWgpSRohH_socgAqRC3odCWkUGP-nF0ORMBGpjG2Jj4OJVI-JEob73BSDw4DreR50I9kA/s400/IMG_9873.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So beautiful. I see so much of my mom in this picture.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4ngcm79q7BnU_QB-TuOwO2kcqfLAGSnzx5OS2XGnbOTQz_eaMZkNBdMgME-QAoLNko9WALHXrfIjDJtjTIXsrZs7Ph6w6IRk2NfGlyDCxxn5jQXmaSUS4ysculxXiY5nj8RD5z6BLeo/s1600/IMG_9945.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1543" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4ngcm79q7BnU_QB-TuOwO2kcqfLAGSnzx5OS2XGnbOTQz_eaMZkNBdMgME-QAoLNko9WALHXrfIjDJtjTIXsrZs7Ph6w6IRk2NfGlyDCxxn5jQXmaSUS4ysculxXiY5nj8RD5z6BLeo/s400/IMG_9945.JPG" width="385" /></a></div>
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Following the recital we went (back out in the rain) to...Snuffy's!<br />
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Kid-approved as a great place to celebrate a sweet ballerina victory.<br />
<br />
And for the "Baller" portion of this post: here's Dave.<br />
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It
was so fun to be back out at the ball park. I love how no matter the
ballpark, there is always a mismatched gang of happy, wild children
packing around, running up to the fences to yell at their Dad or Mom,
trying to hug the dogs, bumming food off each other's parents, leaving
socks, shoes, and jackets strewn across the bleachers and playground,
and basically having the time of their lives without any regard to
bedtime or the dirt on their toes. It's also fun to watch the teams
though. Dave's team appears to be something of a "comeback" team. It
makes games extremely engrossing and satisfying to watch. We are going to have a fun summer!Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-7620508946154942072017-05-24T19:46:00.003-07:002017-05-24T20:00:39.532-07:00Mother's DayI had a very nice Mother's Day! It could have just been sad and hard, but Dave and the kids made me feel really special and appreciated. I requested, and was granted, breakfast in bed and episodes of Fixer Upper on my computer. I couldn't stay in bed though, because they brought me their extremely thoughtful presents, and I was so touched and happy, I felt like being with the family and up I got. So that's good :)<br />
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We went to church and Riley and Joe sang <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7EfJRrJueY&feature=youtu.be">this beautiful song</a> with the primary and had everyone crying (not me...but had I not been distracted by Henry trying to electrocute himself, I might have.)</div>
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It was a gorgeous day for a Sunday walk. <br />
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We walked and talked, and ate Twizzlers, in honor of Mom. Twizzlers always make me think of Mom. Specifically, sitting in the car with Mom waiting for one or more of my siblings to get out of music lessons or sports. Sometimes we'd pass around a pack of Twizzlers to "tide us over" till dinner, and now they taste like peace and comfort and well-being.<br />
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We talked about Mom, "Grandma Jan" while we walked. Joe asked if there were Twizzlers in Heaven. Dave figures anything we want to be in Heaven will be in Heaven. Sounds right.<br />
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I'm glad I'm a Mom! It's been really good for me! You could drown trying to not mess it up and be everything for your little people, because they are amazing and they deserve everything! But here is a thing that I've learned: God takes our best efforts and makes them enough. That is my mantra on the hard days and I'm relying on the Atonement now more than ever. The calling of motherhood has led me to that. I suppose life is a proving ground to learn that and make choices that lead you to Christ no matter your calling, but that has been my experience and there is nothing I'd give up for that knowledge.<br />
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Also, these kids, man. Pieces of my heart walking around outside my body! They have turned me into a doting, protective Mama bear I never thought I could be. Thanks to Dave and these three cherubs, I laugh more now than I ever used to (very likely sleep deprivation plays a part in that too - we're slap happy a lot these days...Dave came home and laid face-down on the carpet yesterday and Henry toddled over to sit on his head. Life's just fun!) I love experiencing things for the first time through the eyes of a child. The questions like, "What's the healthy part of candy?" and "How many money's do you need to buy a house," said while counting his pennies. Riley, stroking your face and looking deep into your eyes to bend you to her will. Henry, and his heart-melting cuddles.<br />
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And finally, my Mother's Day favorite's roundup: (Putting my scrolling to good use.) If you haven't already seen these lovely Mother's Day gems, well, enjoy!<br />
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<ul>
<li>This<a href="http://nortorious.blogspot.com/2016/06/life-saving-tips-for-mother-of-big.html"> blog post </a>I read a long time ago and still think about when I change my kids into cute clothes</li>
<li><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kate-levkoff/this-mothers-day-just-brunch-me-in-the-fcking-face_b_9856746.html">Language but LOL</a> (have your brunch at home)</li>
<li>Sharing this solely because it recommends catching crawfish: <a href="http://www.today.com/parents/21-ways-save-money-have-fun-kids-summer-t30991">summer fun</a> for the thrifty parent</li>
<li>One of my favorite parenting <a href="http://www.podcastchart.com/podcasts/raise-your-kids-not-your-voice-sarah-chana-radcliffe/episodes/from-heart-to-heart-making-sure-your-kids-know-you-love-them">podcasts</a> of all time - this lady has GOOD advice</li>
</ul>
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</ul>
Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-70799290754603686112017-04-28T20:25:00.001-07:002017-04-28T20:33:32.903-07:00Brothers It does a mother's heart good to see siblings having fun with each other. Sometimes they get a little rough (and it's <i>not</i> always Joe dishing it out! Henry often tries to lure Joe into rough-housing, as you will see here) but there is a deep adoration. For all their being almost four years apart, I see a lot of similarities between the Joe and Henry. They have the same kink in their hair on the top of their heads. They have similar taste in foods. They fight over the same cars and they both like to dance to a good beat. Both fall asleep on their own, and they love a good cuddle. Henry can't really talk yet, but he will babble a mile a minute to a willing audience, like his brother. And they both like to wrastle. <br />
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Of course when she's not at school, Riley is in the thick of the fray as well.<br />
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I saw a thing on Pinterest today.<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/(https://www.pinterest.com/pin/428756827003532088/)"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(https://www.pinterest.com/pin/428756827003532088/)</span></a></div>
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I think I've actually posted about this thought before, back when Joe was a baby. Today it touched me again, and turned me back toward my blessings. I mean, I get grouchy. I try not to send too much negativity out there - too much of that in the world already - but whether I complain to you or not, I feel it. And I for sure take my blessings for granted. But this was a reminder to reflect and feel gratitude. I remember praying when I was young for the man who I would marry. Just like, hoping he was having a good day and that he had good friends and stuff. And now I know him and married him and am part of that equation! My children. My relationships with my siblings and friends. My relationship with myself. Fulfilling ways to spend my time and efforts.<br />
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Well, it's a roundabout way of saying, "I'm grateful for the little guys roughhousing on the floor."<br />
And also, I'm going to keep praying :)<br />
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<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-38185430121588055882017-04-16T19:49:00.002-07:002017-04-17T20:46:53.051-07:00Happy 1st Birthday Henry!One year. This year: this year, Henry has brought so much fun and love into our home. He is a cuddly little monster. Even his burgeoning fits of temper are pretty stinkin cute. He is so busy and curious and mobile, and if he is awake, he is ON. Baby Godzilla. How I love him. And so chatty! Not a sensible word as yet, but we have held many meaningful, in-depth conversations - his babbles have a lot more interest to me than, well...most coherent conversations. Smitten. We all are! <br />
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Here's some things about Henry:<br />
<br />
Milestones:<br />
<ul>
<li>First tooth: 6mo</li>
<li>Rolled: 4mo</li>
<li>First camping trip: 6mo </li>
<li>Crawled: 7mo</li>
<li>Walked: 10.5mo</li>
<li>First swim: 3 weeks</li>
<li>First clap: today! He clapped today! All that birthday celebrating did it! </li>
</ul>
That felt a little braggy. How about this one:<br />
<ul>
<li>Started sleeping through the night: never. He will never sleep through the night.</li>
<li>Bonks on the head: like a thousand. He is extremely tip-able.</li>
<li>Foods that he likes more than breast milk: 0 </li>
</ul>
Some of his interests include:<br />
<ul>
<li>Rocking in his little rocking chair</li>
<li>Wrestling with his siblings</li>
<li>Dancing, even if just to the rhythm of the dishwasher</li>
<li>Bath time and water in general</li>
<li>Bacon</li>
<li>Remotes</li>
<li>Getting anyone to chase him (at least half the allure of the remotes)</li>
<li>Drawers, drawers, lids</li>
<li>Activities way beyond his abilities - if he sees brother or sister doing it, he wants to do it! Does not like being left out.</li>
<li>Welcoming home anyone that walks through the door - he has a very keen ear, and a wonderful shriek of delight. Makes you feel like a million bucks. </li>
</ul>
So what can I say? We'll keep him.<br />
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A Year In The Life:<br />
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What a fun year!<br />
(For an even bigger throwback, the video from 4 days after he was born: <a href="http://themunionfamily.blogspot.com/2016/04/henry.html">http://themunionfamily.blogspot.com/2016/04/henry.html </a><br />
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Little side note: you always hear the transition from two kids to three is the hardest. I get that - not enough hands, more chaos. But I <i>love</i> being the mother of three - I feel so much more confident and have more faith than I did the first go around. I like that when the baby is up every 90 minutes at night, or throwing lots of fits, or whatever it is, that I know it is a phase and that it will end. Also, the cute baby things, I know will be grown out of, so I savor them more. There is more baby-talk, more cuddles, more stroller walks. Dave and I have loved, <i>relished</i> this little baby. Haggard and sleep-deprived that we are. <br />
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We love you Mr. Cute!<br />
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Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-54449401445215188782017-03-02T07:59:00.003-08:002017-03-02T08:25:41.640-08:00Dr Seuss's and Someone Else's Birthday!Today is another special day for special people. Dr. Seuss being one. Dave being another!<br />
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Happy Birthday, Dave!<br />
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I have now celebrated...7 of your birthdays. The first one, back when we were young and rested, was an awkward affair - that stage before you're "official" and "have money" haha! I was falling for you hard but you hadn't asked me to be your girlfriend and so after much deliberation, I got you a store-bought over-sized cupcake and a...Spider Man cup? I'm not sure what that was about - did we watch Spider Man together, or something? All I remember is that it took me a long time to select that cup. And then that night you asked me to be your girlfriend, <i>and</i> we had our first kiss! I'm so glad we're "official" now. I can be as swoony as I want and no one can call me an idiot! So:<br />
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I love you so much! There is nothing worthy I can think of that you don't deserve and I am excited to help you build your dreams over a lifetime, as you have helped me build mine! You make the world a shinier, more hopeful place, and we are all so very lucky to have you. Thank you, you tall, <strike>dark</strike> ginger, and handsome man you. So glad you're mine.<br />
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Well, this birthday I'll be working - we'll make it up this weekend- but at least your birthday present will be better than that first one! <i>And</i> you can kiss me any time you want ;) (I can say with 99% certainty that you haven't seen "Sweet Home Alabama," but that last phrase was from the movie. It applies.)<br />
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I look forward to a balcony serenade very soon.<br />
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xoxo<br />
Yours.<br />
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<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-53561926001258583942017-02-23T22:17:00.002-08:002017-02-23T22:18:35.026-08:00Lots of love on Mom and Dad's BirthdaySomething cool about my parents: they share a birthday. February 23rd is a holiday in our family. On this day, 64 years ago, my Dad came earth-side. Exactly one year later, Mom followed suit. As I spoke with Dad on the phone earlier today, there are things that are difficult to put into words, but I'm sure we were both thinking about the many birthday's he and Mom have shared, and missing her on this one. In my mind, the two celebrations are one and the same - today will always be "Mom and Dad's Birthday." We probably celebrate birthdays in Heaven... fun fact, but I always think of July 4th as "the day I left to serve a mission." And in the sense that our mortal lives are a mission, but longer and more dramatically capped, by birth and death instead of a plane ride, I draw parallels between the mission and mortal life. I mean, my time in England as "Sis. McClure" <i>was</i> kind of a different world - there was this separation from my family, there was this focused purpose, direction, goals...in a way it's a microcosm for mortal life. So I like to think. <br />
Anyway. I think of Mom celebrating the day she arrived on earth to begin her mortal mission. Now, will she celebrate her homecoming day? I have no idea. <i>I</i> don't know the exact day I returned home from the mission. Sometime in February. Why do I not know that?? Was it because I was returning to the known, versus embarking into the unknown? Musing aside, I know Mom missed her parents terribly and reuniting with them was a great moment for her.<br />
Back to birthdays: I wonder what kind of party Mom had to celebrate this day. A quilting party? :) Was there violin playing? Was there watermelon? Mom has always loved watermelon, even when she was little. In fact, Grandma used to buy extra in the summer just to ball it and freeze it to have when her birthday came in February. They didn't have year-around everything produce like we do nowadays. I heard that story for the first time last summer, when we were making her watermelon smoothies a lot because they helped her cough, and I thought that was such a tender, telling detail that story was. Isn't a mother's love an amazing thing??<br />
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Let's give Grandpa credit too, for being a great Dad! Another story I heard last summer: Grandma had a difficult recovery after she had Mom, so her mother came to help out. But Grandpa insisted that <i>he</i> be the one to change the diapers, give the baths, and be the baby's main caretaker. That was not a thing men insisted on in those days, but he certainly did. Our Grandpa was a sweet, good man. I miss him.<br />
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Dad was his mother's first child, as Mom was the first in her family, and the apple of his mother's eye. We had a long discussion once about the trouble he got into when he was a kid. We had to ask, because we got to comparing notes and none of us could recall any bad stories about Dad as a kid. The picture Grandma paints of Dad is pretty much perfect. He is pretty much perfect now, so it's easy for us to believe he was an angel child. BUT. He <i>did</i> punch his sister in the stomach one time. It went something like: he was wearing something of hers and wouldn't give it back so she went and put on something of his and therefore he punched her in the stomach. Let the record show: the man is flawed. :)<br />
I'm sorry I don't have any pictures of you in diapers to post, Dad. I thought about sticking one up of Danny and passing it off as you though. Thought about it. I'll just use a couple of my favorites.<br />
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We love and wish you both a happy birthday! I didn't get it together to do our annual birthday music video this year, sorry! I know you will miss all that musical talent and what not! But Joe and Riley are sending you a very special bit of stamped and colored artwork (your guess is good as mine... Maybe Mickey Mouse? We have Mickey stamps, so that's probably what they were talking about). Be so excited! ;) <br />
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Love, <br />
HeidiHeidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-32144720926380285142017-02-13T20:58:00.001-08:002017-02-13T21:01:05.682-08:00Valentines Day 2017I've always loved Valentine's Day. Regardless of my relationship status. Mom always made it special. Every year we "helped" her decorate heart-shaped shortbread cookies, a recipe that Aunt Lesa made for her and Dad when they were first married, and became a cherished Valentine tradition in our family. We also usually got the little Russel Stover chocolate boxes. And when we turned into angsty teenagers entered in the rat race of "Who can get someone to send them flowers at school," (which, by the way: why the heck was that even allowed?? I'm sure central office found it as annoying as the rest of us.) I always thought it was kind of dumb, but just in case I cared, Mom sent me flowers at school. "From the person who loves you the most," Mrs. Profit, the secretary, told me. "Mommy!" I said, and we laughed. Mrs. Profit was cool. Mom was cool. Part of me thought, "Oh, that's cheesy." But...I <i>am</i> writing about it 15 years later, give or take. It left a glow on my heart.<br />
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And every year since I left home I've received lovely, "cheesy" Valentines Day packages from Mom in the mail. Candy, hearts, books or movies. Who doesn't love packages of...love?? This year, Dad took up the torch and sent us a Valentines package for Mom to be proud of. The kids got their own boxes of chocolate. Even Henry :) Stuffed animals, cards, stickers - it was such a joyful package! And of course the package is only part of the magic - I was so touched by Dad's thoughtfulness. I know he is missing his sweetheart beyond words, but somehow he still thinks of others. Tomorrow will be our first Valentines Day without her. Typing that kind of hurts. It also happens to be the six-month anniversary of the day she died. Typing <i>that</i> really hurts. I wish I could be with Dad tomorrow. Mom and Dad are hopeless romantics and, kind, hard-working, friendly people that they are, they are the stars of a truly epic romance. I can think of <i>no</i> love story with more devotion and loyalty than what they had for each other.<br />
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It is very humbling to be the child of my parents. <br />
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I really didn't mean for this post to go this way but I'm going to go ahead and share one more thing that's kind of wonderful/awful; an excerpt of a book called "Sunset", written by S. Michael Wilcox after the death of his wife:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"There is healing in the flow and ripple of words. Both grief and love must be expressed somehow, someway - grief that it may lessen or at least become endurable, and love because to speak it, to share it, to open the heart, intensifies it and increases it, lets it grow out in the open air and lights. Unexpressed love dies, suffocating in the confining, restricted space of the self. One thing I believe above all else: Laurie's early death has taught me a great deal about loving and being loved. All of love's expressions - affection and romance, the spiritual and the physical, the emotional and the familial, its quiet acceptance and its passionate yearning for otherness, learning and sharing, forgiving and sacrificing, woman and wife, intimate lover and devoted friend, the the needed and searched for help - meet for all dimensions of a joined life. Did she realize how much she took with her in her passing? Do I yet realize it? Do we feel how much life was filled until the emptiness left teaches us its volume? Yet the loving remains and grows and is itself a kind of filling. Death breaks the heart, but in living, most of the deepest sorrow seeps out through the cracks until love can seal them and replenish the hollowed-out spaces. But the heart remains touch-tender-and oh, the little things the magnet of our longing is drawn toward.<br />
"Someone asked me, "What do you miss the most?<br />
"Holding hands while walking; feeling her fingers on my arm; her insistence that I always stand one step down to compensate for our difference in height; calling her 'little one'; her voice singing Mary's Lullaby; sensing her smile on my face when I'm not looking; seeing love in her eyes," I answered, and then turned away as a hundred other tiny "everythings" flooded back."</blockquote>
If I could I'd just type out the whole book. I am so grateful that the author felt driven to share his experience and insights. We don't talk about death much in our culture, but when it visits our loved one, well it helps to relate to others who have been down the same path. And all of us sooner or later will be on that path.<br />
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Happy Valentines Day, right?<br />
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I will always love Valentines Day. I love celebrating the love between souls, romantic and otherwise. Love is the warmth in the cold, the light in the dark, the answer to your your most important questions! "Love lifts us up where we belong! All you need is love!" (Moulin Rouge. Thank you Ewan McGregor)<br />
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So. I made the shortbread cookies with my little ones tonight! They are divine. You should make them.<br />
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Shortbread Cookies: <br />
<br />
3/4 cup softened butter<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
2 cups flour<br />
<br />
Cream butter and sugar together, work in flour, press it together in a roll-able ball (if its too crumbly add a little more butter - I think I added 2 Tbs tonight to our dough). Roll out 1/3-1/2 inch thick, cut out hearts, place on cookie sheet 1/4-1/2 inch apart (they barely rise at all) and bake at 350 for 18-20 minutes or till they are slightly golden on bottom. Immediately remove from pan and glaze! (powdered sugar, milk, pink food coloring). If you like sprinkles, hit em with sprinkles immediately after glazed as they dry fast.<br />
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The Munions like sprinkles. I had to rein em in to keep a few smooth-topped. You know, for contrast sake. <br />
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I'm so grateful for the little people in my life. I love you so much, I totally get why Mom went to the lengths she did every Valentines Day for us - she wanted us to know how we were cherished and how important our happiness was. Well, I feel the same. Riley, Joe, Henry - you are treasured. And Dave - looking at you now - you are adored. I'm so glad I found you, you bring so much to the table, meaning and joy to life. Dad, you have always been and will always be a safe place, reassurance in the storms and such an example of hope and courage and work. I think I'm going to have to start a family email chain to tell the rest of you'uns how I feel - grateful for all these siblings, and extended family and others, it's just a bit much for a blog. But I hope you feel loved today and every day.<br />
<br />
I love you.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Valentines Day!</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>“And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is
love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” 1
John 4:16</i></span></span></span> </blockquote>
<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-74239144621188896542017-01-23T08:18:00.002-08:002017-01-24T12:38:39.747-08:00Virginia, Numero Dos: Hiking the Cascade<br />
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Now that we live in MN, we make it a point to order unseasonably warm weather when we visit VA ;). So we were able to go for a hike a couple days after Christmas to the Cascades, located in the Jefferson National Forest in Giles. Even this time of year, the moss, laurels, and ferns make a bold stand, providing enough green that you don't feel like it's winter yet after all.<br />
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Photo creds to Dave and Dad and myself. It was a very pretty trail.<br />
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So you can see the sun was setting as we approached the falls. I'm so proud of our little hikers - they are enthusiastic and energetic. Of course, after the 2 (3? No I think it was 2. Felt like 3 though.) mile hike up, they were getting a little tired and trying to hurry back in the waning light was...a tad difficult. We sang a lot of peppy Christmas songs to up the pace. And the Noble Duke of York. We actually made really good time and got back to the trail head about 6:30 - well after dark, but in one piece (no bear attacks!).<br />
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Tim had dinner waiting for us at Lora's house, which was so warm and inviting. They really blessed our lives that night. Haha it might sound a little...overstated. But add up the relief at getting everyone home safely, having worked up a healthy appetite, and getting out of the cold, dark December night...well, it made for an especially pleasant dinner with the family. How I miss those informal gatherings with family! I am so, so, so glad we got to do that.<br />
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<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-90396532731000779302017-01-10T08:39:00.000-08:002017-01-13T13:28:19.718-08:00A Virginia ChristmasThe journey:<br />
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We left about 8 pm Wednesday night and drove through the night (and by we I mean Dave). The kids did great. Note to self: next over-night road trip, make some kind of stretchy, padded forehead cradles to attach to car seat. Their floppy little heads and occasional moans in their sleep made me sad. But they woke up perky the next morning, so I guess they were alright.<br />
Anyway, we stopped only for gas and baby feeding. Pop Tarts for breakfast (much rejoicing) and we met Dad for lunch in Bluefield, VA, about 1:30 on Friday. We looked haggard I'm sure ,and Riley's hair was rat's nest from car-seat friction, but it was a joyful reunion, nonetheless.<br />
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When we got home we showered and then celebrated Ander's birthday! Party! Party all weekend! Romp and Roll! Caroling at the nursing home! Cousins arrive and the house is filled with joyful children at play and Star War's noises!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday cake (Artfully decorated by Riley and Joe, made my Tim)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowball fight. The kiddies are on the run!</td></tr>
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Cheese-steaks at Sals (And a tired Ms. Ari cradles Lora's hand to the side of her face, because Lora is her comfort object and it was the cutest)<br />
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Christmas Violin recital at Heritage Halls (many thanks to Ander for making one of Mom's Christmas traditions happen.) I don't have pictures of the violinist :( but took a few on a rounds after. The nursing home residents are always enthusiastic about welcoming the little ones and laughing at their antics, lending ear to their tales. Joe was using his exceptionally long Santa hat to stow peppermints in he collected from Santa and his admirers. He was brazenly "passing the hat" till a stern rebuff from me, but his hand kept slipping up to shove more in there.I acted like I didn't notice.<br />
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Christmas Eve we welcomed Grandma and Aunt Mel, and Danny and Jenni's family. Riley campaigned, and won, an early bedtime for the first time in her life. She really wanted to give Santa ample time. Surprisingly, I was the first one awake Christmas morning. So I crept downstairs and started breakfast: cinnamon rolls and baked Olaf (hash with eggs cracked on top). The kids rose around 7, 7:30 and were thrilled to open their stockings and Santa gifts. <br />
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Then we tore them all away from their presents and headed to church. We sang carols and heard beautiful testimonies about Christ and I couldn't hold back the tears as I thought about how much we all missed Mom this year, and tried to focus my thoughts on our Savior and the message of comfort and eternal love that he brought. Dad shared a poem she loved: "Touch of the Master's Hand" - one that appealed to two major loves in Mom's life: violin and the gospel of Jesus Christ. It isn't Christmas-specific, but the message that we are all of infinite worth, and saved by our Savior, Jesus Christ, is poignant, and very Christmas-appropriate. Basically, even though our hearts are still broken, we have hope because of Christ. The world could be so much darker. Grief is awful, but I have to say I have felt the warm light of Christ even in this very difficult past year and I am truly grateful for that.<br />
<br />Well, and when you have such vibrant, energetic distractions as we have (those kids and cousins) you can't help but cheer up a little. They say and do such funny things, and are awash in innocence and excitement - Christmas! They left Santa a funny little note and all the best cookies. They asked if we were decorating sugar cookies till the only option was to do it already. And the joyful chaos that ensued when they were unwrapping Christmas gifts took me every bit back to my own childhood and the magic I felt on Christmas. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reading Luke 2</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4P7g1BMq5t3knvfZoxh2cvatFhU3YG0FBqBeVESpOX16mSZ3-AHFNlYEYcqDKdQ6LYROPu30ZkfFpdlP8W8eT8EXhHA_KXFn8hLXQ9nPZhvP2OWrKzGFdzau7Mdeb24qXOIMZWZ9JvHE/s1600/IMG_7004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4P7g1BMq5t3knvfZoxh2cvatFhU3YG0FBqBeVESpOX16mSZ3-AHFNlYEYcqDKdQ6LYROPu30ZkfFpdlP8W8eT8EXhHA_KXFn8hLXQ9nPZhvP2OWrKzGFdzau7Mdeb24qXOIMZWZ9JvHE/s400/IMG_7004.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTULxAbtpLhn7k2iyfK8U8sjzIU0jMkhVXa2379CK_JhuCatyFTq9Wvo2orVR4N3GpzY0dy_UouSKGrfSxGbYxBcLFlTGIzgEhZ7lCvYqeaevnViRjddwHh3M2bEkODwF-ZV8Rnu9ok0/s1600/IMG_7007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTULxAbtpLhn7k2iyfK8U8sjzIU0jMkhVXa2379CK_JhuCatyFTq9Wvo2orVR4N3GpzY0dy_UouSKGrfSxGbYxBcLFlTGIzgEhZ7lCvYqeaevnViRjddwHh3M2bEkODwF-ZV8Rnu9ok0/s400/IMG_7007.JPG" width="300" /></a> <br />
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The combined efforts of many took a stab at what Mom used to orchestrate for our huge crowd every year, and we turned out a wonderful Christmas dinner. Grandma and Mel did the turkey, ham, and pies, the rest of us did sides, and we ate by candlelight. A silver lining: I feel like a treasure time with loved ones more now than ever. It is an honor to have so much love in your life, that makes partings so very painful. Not everyone could be there, but we held each other close in our hearts, and exchanged phone calls with those we could. Some of us went to the cemetery to feel close to Mom and reflect on Christmases past and be there for each other. </div>
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We got through. I am grateful for this more somber but maybe more meaningful Christmas this year. The traditions that were "nice" before now serve as connections and reminders.<br />
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*One more note: We participated in the Light the World initiative, and participated in various advent activities. There was one day that was "honor your mother" and I tried to do activities and make choices the way I thought Mom would, and it was such a reminder to me of what an exceptional being is Mom! I practiced viola (I don't have a violin, but viola works) and I quilted, made a nice meal for my family and served our neighbor. I talked to family on the phone and tried to listen with an empathetic ear. It was exhausting ;) Basically, it was an exercise in living a full life. I'm so grateful.<br />
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And that, my friends was Christmas.<br />
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*although Part 2, maybe 3, of our Virginia visit pending*<br />
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<br />Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141734239007539873.post-29462802443861168792016-11-04T19:47:00.004-07:002016-11-04T19:49:27.490-07:00Camping at Gooseberry FallsWe camped, and you can't NOT blog about that, if you have a blog. I want this recorded in history in as many places as possible, it is <i>that</i> rare of an occurance. Why rare? I mean, I love it. It is always a great family memory-builder/bonding, and oh such a relief to be out in nature, see the stars and sit around a campfire... But... Will the weather cooperate? Who to go with? How will we keep everyone warm? Do we have sufficient clothing for exploring and sleeping plus spares for if/when someone falls in the lake or pees their pants? What food will we pack in and what do we need to take to prepare it? Many considerations.<br />
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Of course, it is totally worth it.<br />
<br />
We went with the Davis family, and their girls are close in age to Riley and Joe. They played so well together that we were able to just relax much of the time. Plus, we shared meal responsibilities, cutting the work in half.<br />
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*Thanks Dave and Selena for letting me pilage your pictures for this
post. I'm sure I'll revisit when I'm missing
summer/nature/campfires/down time. And also to remind myself that I do like
camping, when the next opportunity rolls around :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHBIkbK5GzAHDaMJsjcrX4o3P5KQjdSJEQs2lRj_OSchz5vbVaux0QcKkOmxEK0srZwfhb9Bp5oJy2Hdt4-_oGJois09t8v3n2REcXeJ4A9S1OS8N4wA6zOUXOjNsexEpyFWfNlQacQE/s1600/IMG_5543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHBIkbK5GzAHDaMJsjcrX4o3P5KQjdSJEQs2lRj_OSchz5vbVaux0QcKkOmxEK0srZwfhb9Bp5oJy2Hdt4-_oGJois09t8v3n2REcXeJ4A9S1OS8N4wA6zOUXOjNsexEpyFWfNlQacQE/s640/IMG_5543.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rustic mountain men and thermal underpants. Also muscles.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjds3jf_uYi-U8Fv4mzwDy_ulfJjx9FrgGHdaVIsdQGWTWFv33rta0phdS1O2hfVmd_2iAWPy2rm9EgSSmm3CScLuJVd-lm8PY3AV5h-__UJ6VSyJBhoFhoQAEQ574xlRI97DwabpMFBVg/s1600/IMG_5546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjds3jf_uYi-U8Fv4mzwDy_ulfJjx9FrgGHdaVIsdQGWTWFv33rta0phdS1O2hfVmd_2iAWPy2rm9EgSSmm3CScLuJVd-lm8PY3AV5h-__UJ6VSyJBhoFhoQAEQ574xlRI97DwabpMFBVg/s640/IMG_5546.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "secret trail" in the "magic wood" had a lot of appeal for the little ones. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggE0KYkk5Ufx8vg1WdgK65FOoz8Yxy889Ay_FzMRtiVinSE8Ugz0vTlRaybTyBLBhS6OuplAdsENaIv0SvjFonAo0ecfHxCgjb1NjfTlgatXcDpqHXK6HEIvUcnGjhqa7zD4dxMGIy6mk/s1600/IMG_5566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggE0KYkk5Ufx8vg1WdgK65FOoz8Yxy889Ay_FzMRtiVinSE8Ugz0vTlRaybTyBLBhS6OuplAdsENaIv0SvjFonAo0ecfHxCgjb1NjfTlgatXcDpqHXK6HEIvUcnGjhqa7zD4dxMGIy6mk/s400/IMG_5566.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And evening walk before dinner.</td></tr>
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The Davis' did dinner - brats, foil veggies and fall squash soup. Yum. Then s'mores, <br />
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So that night, it was cold. About 37 degrees Farenheit?<br />
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There was much cuddling - Dave and I each had one kid in our sleeping bags with us, and the extra, Joe, had about ten blankets piled on top. His description of that night: "toasty!" My description: could have been worse. Definitely could have been better. (next time: hats!) But definitely could have been worse. <br />
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But what a glorious morning! I thought of Grandma Smith telling us about camping and frying bacon outside with a campfire... It was still shivery, but we had a lot of fun frying up breakfast - bacon and potatoes and eggs - sipping hot chocolate, and chasing away a brazen little red squirrel who thought he had free reign of the pans! The kids ate and, again, played in the mystical forest next to our camp. They adopted a sizeable rock as a baby and took turns toting it around, "feeding" it, covering it up with "blankets" (pine needles) and basically, why do we ever bother buying toys for our kids? They had the best time with that rock...and it somehow made it home with us, shoved under the front seat.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCdvsgZSP9MIGN-5loFQ2q-ill-GIlJy8E_UCc-OyNV3fjUGQjsj26xkmoUQQwA42FzFDtQ5pijz5RPIx4JzjmNguP2EIwO_gqarjtOLa1tzmAT7ucuvYVSw38wOOkKTCj_1RIBCmOJWM/s1600/14884675_10101878847397190_8414869141431288841_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCdvsgZSP9MIGN-5loFQ2q-ill-GIlJy8E_UCc-OyNV3fjUGQjsj26xkmoUQQwA42FzFDtQ5pijz5RPIx4JzjmNguP2EIwO_gqarjtOLa1tzmAT7ucuvYVSw38wOOkKTCj_1RIBCmOJWM/s320/14884675_10101878847397190_8414869141431288841_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuties! Photo cred to Selena!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another from Selena's camera</td></tr>
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Henry didn't want to nap in the pack-n-play, but the hitch carrier? Yes, definitely, for like an hour and a half. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm glad Selena thought to get a group picture. Don't we look like a party??</td></tr>
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Lake Superior is a short distance from the campground, a good hike for, say, a group of six very small children, and their four handlers. With a very rewarding view. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pebble beaches make for more difficult angels, we found.</td></tr>
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From Lake Superior, the hike continues on to Gooseberrry Falls. We took a slight "scenic" detour. I'm not saying I'm not adventurous, but I never left the trail before I married Dave, is what I'm saying. And now our hikes always end up..."scenic." haha :)<br />
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And that's it! That's all I've got! A fun weekend! Then we packed up and headed home. Ahem, DAVE packed up. He spoils me - I'm more than happy to shepherd our flock if someone else will do the packing up. The kids passed out the second we got in the car and didn't wake up till we were almost home. THEN we stopped at Culver's for dinner and everyone was so rested and giggly, we had a very nice time + frozen custard. I like my crew. I'm trying to remember some jokes or something, but I just remember laughing a lot. </div>
I like my crew.Heidi M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/15273794324116931963noreply@blogger.com2