Halloween Celebrations

That title doesn't quite do this Halloween justice. We celebrated it for 5 days in a row. Now was is it so spectacular that I celebrated Halloween, well because my family doesn't. Most of my family's feeling are summed up in a text I received from Bro on Halloween. It said "Halloween, bah humbug." However, Gaupo is very into Halloween including the creepy scary part. So, we have to compromise. This is what we came up with...

To kick off the celebration, we went to the ward trunk 'n treat and chili cook-off. I dressed up in my PJ's and carried Little One around in her bear suit. We were 'Me and My Teddy.' Gaupo doesn't enjoy dressing up (one part of Halloween I really do like), so he didn't. The chili cook-off was fun. There was good food, good company, and just and enjoyable evening. I didn't enter any of the contests. so I don't have any stories but it was still really fun because I got to do my all time FAVORITE hobby...talking a lot.

In our costumes

Sunday we made Candy Corn drinks. These were actually really good, unless you don't like chunks in you drinks. The cool whip on top was supposed to cover the whole thing but we didn't have enough and like it frozen so just use your imagination. Probably my favorite part about this drink is how the cool whip mixed with the soda and jelloish portion fizzed. It was cool and I find it very interesting that I could never quite get the cool whip to mix into my drink. Oh well, so good.

Candy Corn Drinks

Monday you could probably argue was not very Halloweenie but you know what Halloween happens in the Fall and this Fall casserole thing totally reminds you of Fall. This was also really good. Guapo loved it and it filled him up which is always nice. Anyway, it is just a casserole that has sausage or in our case brats, raisins (opt), carrots, onions, rice, and some spices. It is really good and easy just up my alley for a Monday. We also had Candy Corn drinks again. Also, we watched Casper that night for FHE.

I know it doesn't look great here but trust me it was, and this is Gaupo's lunch for the next day.

Tuesday we got a little bit more Halloweenie. We had worms on a bun. This was my first time making it so they don't look all that wormy but if I were to do it again I would cut up the hotdogs first, and into 8 pieces instead of quarter. Then I would boil them and add BBQ sauce. I REALLY enjoyed this one. I though it was so cool and I know its kind of gross but I really enjoy hotdogs. We also celebrate by having Cheetos. We have those like never because they are really bad for you, but they went with this meal just great.

See these are kind of chunky worms and not very curly. Oh well still fun.

Wednesday was they day. We had eyes and ears for dinner. It was pretty much spaghetti and meatballs but so much cooler. I still need to perfect my keeping the eyes white but I think it adds to the grossness. We also drank witches brew, which neither of us like. Oh well, it was really fun to make and try. Then we opened the bag of candy for the tricker treaters. Which we did get quite a few but no one I knew. I was kind of bummed about that but oh well maybe later in life. Even though we did have more ticker treaters than last year there was still plenty of candy for Gaupo and I to eat while watching Ernest Scared Stupid. Oh it is a great Halloween movie. Kind of creepy and gross but enough comic relief to make it enjoyable. Over all Halloween was really quite a good night.

Eyes and Ears. Looks yummy, huh?

Witch's brew. The green one doesn't have the orange sherbet added to it yet.

Well, that is how we celebrated this year. Next year we might change somethings but you have to start somewhere and I would say this is a pretty good. Start.

A Much Needed Update

Man I have neglected my blog lately and most importantly (especially for grandparents) have neglected to update about Little One. So, what has Little One been up to now that she is well over 7 months. Let me tell you....

• She has two teeth on the bottom and I am pretty sure is working on 4 on the top. The two teeth are cute as can be and luckily she is not a biter. The four top teeth are causing me grief because sometimes she gets really upset and I don't know what it is, sometimes its teeth and sometimes it is her just being a baby. Augh, I hate teething, but it sure makes her smile cute.
• She can roll in all directions. She has been doing this for about a month now, and so she graduated to..
• SCOOTING. I know I shouldn't be excited but I can't help it. The first time she attempted to scoot was when our home teacher was in the middle of his lesson and I excitedly exclaimed, "Gaupo, did you see that, did you see!!!!" It kind of disrupted his lesson, but it didn't ruin it,so I guess it was just a sweet moment.
• However, since she has started scooting she has recently graduate to the crawler stance. She hasn't quite figured out how to move in that stance yet, but she will.
• Sitting. Yes, she can do it but No she wont do it. She will sit as long as it suits her and when she is done she will just topple over and play on her tummy or back. I have tried to get her to sit but she doesn't think it is important, so she doesn't very often.
• Our Little One laughs, and giggle like crazy. She has recently learned to pucker her lips and then she tries to blow out of them. Don't know why she is doing that but is sure cute. That is unless she has food in her mouth.
• Finally, our Little One is eating solids. Yeah it started out slow, but within 1 week she was eating 1/2 a container of veggies, and by week 2 she was downing a whole container or more. So, we moved her up to seconds and most times she eats at least a whole container if not more. She likes pretty much everything, but fruit she doesn't like yet, Oh well. Below is a video that Gaupo has been wanting me to post for a while. She is 'talking' with her mouth full.

That is pretty much the update on Little One. She always keeps me on my toes because no two days in this house are ever the same. However, I enjoy it and wouldn't trade anything for the oppertunity I have of being a stay at home Mom. Sometimes my most precious moments are when we are laying together on the floor just goofing around, when I can rock her to sleep, or when she will scoot to me. Below are just some cute pics of Little One.

6 Months old and the first time in this outfit. I though it was so cute.

Same day different pose.

This is what Little One wears when it is really cold and I still insist on running. Her size and weight makes her feel just like a teddy bear.

She loves computers and other techy stuff. It excites her dad quite a bit. He is such a good guy. So lucky to have him.

New Table, Who Knew That Could Be an Adventure?

I wanted to publish the title as Dining Room Table, but that didn't work because I don't have a dining room. Then I though well kitchen table, but that doesn't really work because we respect it more than our kitchen table before, so the name is new table, and below is why getting a new one is an adventure.

Gaupo and I have been saving money to do some home projects. One night we were discussing what we would like to accomplish with it, and it went much different than either of us thought. Normally we would have decided to do something big like paint the main floor, or fix the roof and porch or something, but no we come out with tv stand, bookshelf, and table. Go figure.

So, the beginning of this month we went to the temple and then went table shopping. We first went to IKEA which was an experience, but didn't find anything. We started heading home and decided to try our local American Furniture Warehouse to see if they had something. Well, they did. The only problem is convincing Adventure Girl that spending money on this kind of thing was okay. I am so ridiculous sometimes. I have been looking at table for a long time. I knew what the prices were and I still wanted to back out and just have a card table. However, Guapo has been wanting a table FOREVER and EVER, so he was not about to let this opportunity pass by. We thought and thought. We mixed chairs, and stools. We tried different things studied and thought. Finally, Guapo paid for our new table 4 chairs and 4 stools. I was excited, but also worried about what we had just done. (by the way this always happens)

Gaupo and our friend picked it up and brought it home on Monday after work. I was so antsy I mowed the lawn with Little One on my back, that way when Gaupo got home we could put it together right away. Well, we got it open and this is part of what I found...

Just in case you can't tell, that is broken. We also found that the table had a significant scruff mark on the end, and two stools were coming apart, and one chair's connect piece was splitting. Oh, I was so disgusted. I called the customer service department and arrange for a pickup and new delivery. So, I had to live with this from Monday night to Thursday morning.

I know its not too bad, but man everything seemed so crammed. Finally, Thursday morning came and so did the truck and now I have this. I LOVE it. It is so nice to have somewhere for everyone to sit. I can put food on the table.Oh it was so worth it and I am so glad we did it.

12.5 Cups Sugar and Evaporated Milk

Not very often do I do domestic things by choice. This especially includes cleaning or vacuuming. However, '"its a horrid habit and I have decided to stop." (name that movie) I don't know that I have completely decided to do all my household chores during the week instead of on Saturday, but this week I at least did something. Monday was the start of my road to becoming a Domestic Goddess. I started by cleaning up Little One's room, and the blue room. Then I vacuumed ALL of the upstairs that includes the hallway and stairs. Then I have been really wanting freezer Raspberry Jam and because we don't live close enough to anyone who would just give me some, I decided it was time for me to make some. So....

I mashed up my Raspberries and added 5.25 cups of sugar to each batch. I made two.

This is what I got, yummy raspberry jam. I forgot to get a pic before I froze it.

that is how I used up the first 10.5 cups of sugar. Making jam made me feel so much like my Mom and Grandma. (In my case this is a very good thing)

Just in case making jam wasn't enough that day we had FHE, where we made fudge. Why fudge after you make super sugary jam? Well, you do it because you have 1/2 a can of evaporated milk left from when you made your Grandma's delicious Hawaiian Meatball the week before, and you have to use the milk before it goes bad.  If that isn't a good enough reason than Gaupo is my other reason. I asked him what I can do with evaporated milk and he said "make my mom's fudge." So, he called and got the recipe and we made it for treat/activity part of family home evening.

Mmmmm tasty!!

That is how I used the evaporated milk and another 2 cups of sugar.

However, my quest for Domestic Godesshood did not stop there. Tuesday I sewed a button on Jason's shirt, and had dinner made before he got home. Before you think two much of dinner, it was only made before hand because the longer chicken salad sits the better it tastes the first time, and I wanted it to be really good. Wednesday I did laundry. I usually do that, so that doesn't add too many points to the trail but I did get two batches folded before Gaupo got home.Today, well I haven't done much we are having burritos for dinner, so no prep needed. Vacuuming the main floor just keeps getting more and more pushed off. BUT I just remembered, I dusted my room today, so see I haven't stopped yet. I am seeing the fine makings of a Goddess here. (wink wink)

Well, I think thats a good update so ta ta for now. 

A Pretty Normal Day

My sister-in-law made a post on her blog about her normal schedule for the day, and then said write about yours. So, I thought I should do that...Later. Well, I got to thinking and decided I could blog now while I was thinking about it or clean a bathroom or doing something else productive like that. Obviously, I am blogging.

My Day

5:00-6:00: Somewhere in this time frame Little One gets up to eat for the first time that day. I feed her and put her back to bed.
6:45-7:00: I get out of bed, pray, and go get Little One if she is awake otherwise wait until she is awake.
7:10-7:15: Have prayers and scriptures with Guapo and Little One. Then we send Guapo off to work.
7:30-7:50: Read scriptures, or play, or get ready to go running
8:00: Feed Little One again, and give her about 2oz of cereal, usually oatmeal she likes that best.
8:30: Finish getting ready
8:45 or 9:00: Go running
9:30: Get back clean up Little One's breakfast mess while she stretches after being in the stroller.
9:45: Put Little One down for a nap
10:00 Breakfast, shower, read scriptures, and start work
Somewhere between 11:00 and 12:00 Little One wakes up and we play for awhile and then eat.
1:00 Lunch
1:30 Check work email make sure no emergencies
2:00 Feed Little One
2:30 or so: Put Little One down for Nap, then I get on the internet and do work again
Anywhere between 3:15 and 4:30 Little One gets up. We play inside, and then outside or go outside to wait for Gaupo to come home
4-4:30: Guapo get home
5:00 Feed Little One again
6:00 Solid food feeding and Sippy Cup time
6:15 or 6:30 or after Little One is down: Dinner
7:00: Get Little One in PJ, Feed, and Rock
7:30ish: Hopefully Little One is in bed
7:30-9:00: Do whatever Guapo and I want
9:00 Watch an 'Episode' (Gilligan's Island, Hogan's Hero's, and most recently Get Smart) while pumping
9:30 get ready for bed
10:00 Hopefully asleep.

That is a pretty typical day. The times are mostly approximate but are pretty close. Sometimes we change up the routine and go to the park, or to a friends house. Sometimes I am on the internet more (I am really trying to lessen that time). Sometimes I have to go into work which always throws me for a loop, but I just have to do it sometimes. Yep, not to abnormal, and everyday is not the same-thank goodness I would get really board. I mean I love routines but not daily the same thing over and over and over again. Good thing I have a kid, it makes every day new. So, now you know my day whats yours like?

My Trip to Lone Star

Way back in March or close to it my brother moved to Lone Star. His wife has blog all about their cute family and life in Lone Star. If you want to check it out here is the link Family in Lone Star. Anyway, sometime in June I think they texted me and said "tickets are cheap you should come visit us." Well, I thought and thought and talked it over with Gaupo and decided you know what might as well. So, I planned the trip and book the flights. This post is all about Aug. 25 to Sept.1 in Lone Star.

Saturday Morning we headed to the airport. Guapo decided to walk us in, which I am so grateful for. He had me push the stroller (empty he wanted to carry Little One for a bit) and pull my suitcase. He wanted to see how I was going to get through the airport and security without him. Apparently I was talented enough to convince him that I could do it and after I got my ticket we headed to security. It was tricky to get through, but I had strategically packed my bags that way I knew exact where everything I need to pull out was at. We made it through with out a hitch. (thank goodness) When we finally got to our gate Little One was having a rough time, there were tons of people and the loud speaker was always announcing new flights and changes. Little One needed a nap so bad but just couldn't get herself to calm down enough to fall asleep. When we finally boarded the plane she was very cranky. It may have worked to my benefit because everyone felt bad and wanted to help me. I asked a gentleman to put my carry-on in the overhead bin and he was more than pleased to do so, and then finally took my seat. The plane was quiet enough for awhile that Little One finally fell asleep in my arms. We sat next to an older couple which was fine with me. The lady loved my cuter than cute baby, and they were 'classic' ticket holders so they mainly watched TV on the flight. I was glad because when Little One awoke she was starving. I am still nursing her and so we fed right there on the plane. Anyway, once we land the same gentleman that but my suitcase overhead also offered to get it down for me. Oh boy did I appreciate that.

Once off the plane I contacted my brother and we tried to find each other. Luckily we did and we head to their house. The drive from Dallas to the house is like 3.5 hours so it took awhile and we had to take a break so I could feed Little One again. Once we got to their house I was SOOOOO done traveling for the day. Luckily we were. That night we watched 'The Help' and had Papa John's, which was so good.
**Side note: 'The Help' was a really good movie. It made me think a lot about how I treat people even now and how some ideas seem so crazy to me but that was life then. Not that it makes it right what anyone did but it still makes me think. Anyway I recommend it as am entertaining historical history movie.

Sunday we went to church. I love being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I love it because they teach the same things no matter where you go. There are different experiences and stories during the lessons, but the doctrine and truths are still the same.

Monday-Thursday was a lot of time just being at home. I loved it though because usually my day is spent with just me and Little One. Whenever I have a break and want to talk to someone I have to call or text and hope I am not interrupting their day. It was so nice while in Lone Star to have someone to talk to all the time. Talking is one of my favorite hobbies, so Sunshine got talked to death. It was so nice to be a Mom with someone else. That probably doesn't make sense but it makes sense to me. We didn't just stay home all the time though. Every morning we went on a run, I think that is a record for me while on vacation. It was also really nice to have someone to run with I always run alone and it was good to have some company. Tuesday we went shopping. I love shopping and I haven't really had a chance since Little One was born, so it was great. I found a cute skirt and also found a couple of tops. Wednesday we went to the accessory store. It was way fun. I sometimes wish I had tons of money so I could have gotten more but I did find the clearance place and got three necklaces and a set of earrings. I don't have hardly any pictures of this trip but here is one of Little One and her cousin Honey. The other is the huge mess Little One made while eating oatmeal.

See we can play nice. Mainly because neither of us have toys right now.

What Mom isn't this what I am suppose  to do?

Friday my brother doesn't have work, so they worked outside on the lawn and I did the dishes. It think that that was the first time doing dishes was semi therapeutic.  After we worked, my sister cut my brother's hair and then thinned mine. I love it I have worn my hair completely down twice. That doesn't sound like often but trust me it is. Then we went out to eat at a Mexican food restaurant. It was so good. My favorite was the chicken chimmi and the salsa and fresh tortillas. Then we went to Sams Club and finished up at this restaurant supply store. It was so cool: giant rolling pins, cookie/ice cream scoops of every size, glasses, busing buckets, stoves, cookers, everything it was AMAZING. I am kind of a sucker for stuff like that so I loved it.

Saturday started with Ultimate Frisbee. I haven't touched a legal disc in a year but my brother still invited me to come play. I really couldn't refuse I love Frisbee. I had so much fun. I ate it once, probably got dehydrated, threw good and bad throws, dived a couple of time, and by the time I was done felt like and old lady. I bent over to pick up the disc once and didn't really have any desire to straighten up, but I did. It was so my fun. Special shout out to Sunshine for watching my baby while I went. She didn't even seem upset that she cried like the whole time I was gone. Thank you so much Sunshine!! I loved playing and hope to be able to do it next summer but we will see what events unfold between now and then. After the game, we rushed home, showered, packed, and left for the airport. It was so hard to say good-bye to family, but I can't lie I was so excited to be going home to see Guapo. I was so tired of taking care of Little One all by myself. I missed his hugs and love. Oh I just missed him OK.

We got through security really easily minus the ever twisting line to get there, but the stroller maneuvered very well and I made it. The flight was great. I sat next to a lady who loved to talk too. So, we chatted the whole ride. She shared story after story, her snack, and held Little One for a minute while I got all situated. She was awesome. I would love to meet her again some day. At the airport, I had to catch the 'train' to get to the baggage claim. That was interesting, but I got there. Gaupo was there and oh what a joyous reunion. Little One wasn't too sure who he was at first, but she caught on after awhile.

Sorry for the long post but it was a whole week worth of stuff. Thanks to Brother and Sunshine for letting us stay with them we had a great time. I am so glad I was able to go. 

How Precious

I don't have these moments very often, but I had one and wanted to document it. I was rocking my little girl to sleep and instead of singing to her like I usually do put on one of my favorite CD's. It is titled Women of Strength and was made by my cousin. Anyway, while listening to that song I just got the over powering feeling of how precious the little girl in my arms is. I could just feel her strength and that she had so much to do and accomplish. I realized at that moment that the time I have to cuddle like this is limited by luckily the time I have with her is hopefully not. I am so grateful for my Little One. She makes me so happy. Even though life with her is sometimes tough I wouldn't trade it for anything and I am so glad that God has trusted me with this precious spirit. He must of thought that I could be a good mom, so now I just need to turn to him and let him make me the mom he knows I can be. So, grateful for this moment and thought. I am also grateful for Heavenly Father's watchful care over me and my family. I don't know what I would do without his love.

Little One

I haven't taken many pictures of little one lately, but here are a few.

Being totally entranced by my phone.

Being cuddle buddies. Cuddling is one of my favorite Mom things.

So tired. I don't know what we were doing but she was OUT.

Little One's new tricks are--

• rolling over almost all the time. (she stopped for awhile that is why this is a new trick)
• trying to stick her pacifier back into her mouth (sometimes it works sometimes it doesn't)
• sticking everything in her mouth
• jabbering. She will tell us stories all the time. It's so cute!
• laughing (these are hard to get but it is so cute when she will do it)
• eating off a spoon. She is pretty good at it but sometimes she tries to go for the whole bowl.

Just Relax and Enjoy

Beware this is more of a Journal Entry than a post. Thus the warning is it may not be as happy and jovial as the rest of my blog posts.

So the last week or two have been absolutely crazy. The first week was crazy because I decided that Little One being cranky meant she needed more sleep. True as this maybe I am not sure I went about it the right way. I ended up stressing myself out. I was worried about why she was even crankier, if my milk was going away, if she was starving, and if she knew she was loved. That doesn't sound too traumatic if it's not your kid but let me tell you if it is your kid it wigs you out, or at least me. So, Little One and I were trying to work this out and boy howdy was it horrible. There were so many tears from both me and her it was ridiculous. Well before we were able to figure it out and get all into a groove it was time for vacation.

We had a wonderful travel filled vacation. It started on Thursday when we drove straight to Aspen Grove. Vanilla works there and got us in for the night. Well, Little One was up way to late, I was grouchy and we still had to party. Oh my poor family. They had me in my worst condition and a baby who was trying her best but was still a little cranky. We did manage to have fun that night. Crafty and her boy Black were coming and the Texas family was already there. So, as tradition in our family goes Black had to under go his testing for entrance into the family. He was a great sport. He did Frisbee golf, match the pictures, make me a sandwich, going through the broom, and arm wrestling. After driving 14+ hours he sure was a trooper to do all of that. However, I am so glad he did. It was so fun to meet him and to see that he truly makes my sister happy, and has a good sense of humor.

After as the testing for the night was complete Black left and we all tried to go to bed. It was a rough night for me I think I maybe got about 4 hours of sleep. Yes, I know for some new parents that is great, but I am more of an 8 to 9 hours of sleep kind of girl. Anyway, we got up that morning and got ready for the day and headed to breakfast. Usually I love greasy food, and waffles for breakfast, but I was so wacked out my favorite part was my too salt oatmeal! (my poor family) However, we gave Little One some cereal that morning and she really enjoyed it. She even had most of her 'shove it out of my mouth' reflex gone. After breakfast we headed back to the cabin and cleaned out. From there we caravaned down to the newlyweds apartment and helped them move in their furniture. After that Gaupo and I took Little One and headed to G and G's house. On the way I took a nap which helped with my anxiety, but didn't completely make it go away. Once and GandG's we enjoyed lunch and a relaxing afternoon. Later in the evening everyone else showed up and we had a wiener roast, frosted cupcakes, did nails, looked at flowers, and talked.

Wedding day was next. The morning was full of getting everything and everybody ready to go. Gaupo and I were privileged to take my mom down to Logan with us. It was really good to have a chance to talk without 50 million other things needing to happen. Once in Logan we setup for the luncheon. The lunch in was marvelous. I thought that they had really good planning, and excellent program, good food and a fun atmosphere. After the luncheon it was off to the temple. Black and Crafty were so cute and are happily married. I can't wait to see them again and hope everything is going well.

That night GandG picked up so scrumptious chicken and salads which we had for dinner. I haven't had that good of chicken in a long time. The group that was walking around the temple didn't get home until around 10:00PM after which most of girls stayed up and talked for awhile before we were just so tired we had to give it up and go to bed.

Sunday was Party Day at Green Acres. We meant to get off a little earlier than planned but everyone slept in, so it didn't happen but we did get to church before meetings started, so not too bad. Gaupo's little brother gave an excellent talk and the meetings were all good. After church we headed home for some quick family pictures and food. Gaupo's mom did a marvelous job with the food and allowed for ALL of the family to enjoy each other's company. That night we spent the night at the other house, and I actually enjoyed it. The bed was comfortable, the company was good, and I slept really good.

Monday, was travel day. Little One did a great job. She did really good until about 45 min from home, but hey I can't blame her I was tired of being in the car by then too. When we finally arrived home I walked in the door and for the first time since being on my own I walked into my house and was like 'oh I am home.' It was such a great feeling.

See many wonderful things happened within the last week, but once again my wanting to meet everyone's expectations and wanting the perfect child may have tainted it a little bit. I was so stressed because Little One would cry and I was just a mess lets face it, but when I called my mom to tell her we were home she gave my some advice. She said "Adventure Girl, just relax and enjoy being a Mom. It doesn't bug everyone else as much as it bothers you. Just let it be." So my goal after this week, to still try and allow Little One to sleep and not get too over tired, but don't stress because that doesn't help anyone. So, hopefully my everyone that came in contact with me this week will realize that stress moments happen especially when unrealistic expectations are set, but the next time we meet I will have chilled out. At least I hope so.

Sorry if this depresses you, but I needed to record the events and the lessons learned. Also, I apologize for the severe lack of pictures. We had such a fantastic week, but I didn't get any pictures except the one below showing how little Little One's foot it is. Also, don't feel bad after reading this just be glad my mom can still tell me to relax.

Growing up

So, I have always promised myself that when I got married I would not be lame. I think I have succeeded pretty well at that so far. The other thing I promised myself is that when I had kids I would not be lame. That one is going to be a little harder to keeps because they are so demanding and need a lot of care. They always need the most care when you want to do something fun and exciting. However, I am still trying to not be too lame. I still go to R.S. Meetings which I love and thankfully Guapo takes care of Little One so that I can stay as long as I want. Which is good because most times I don't get home till after 9:00PM. I also still try to go running, but little one get cranky lately when I do so they have become shorter, but hopefully they will lengthen out again soon. I need a workout because it calms me down. I don't play competitive frisbee at the moment. It is one of those things where I had to tell myself that this is just not the season. Other than a few minor changes like having to take breaks to feed my baby, and rock her to sleep I am still pretty much amazing. It will be interesting to see what happens on vacations this summer. It will truly test if I have become lame or not.

Guapo is growing up to of course. He is still working and developing his computer skills all the time. I love how what he does is his passion. He truly enjoys working on computers, fiddling with them, and improving them. I am continuously amazed at what he can do. He is also being a great Dad. Some of his favorite things to do with little one are make her smile, pull her around on the blanket, let her play with his keys, and do everything that Mom can't. That means when I am trying to put Little One to sleep and she wont, I had her to Dad and the next thing I know she is asleep. He just has a calming influence. Guapo is also a very good at keeping our yard and home up. He mows the lawn, picks weeds, plants and waters the garden and flowers, kills snakes (yes, so far we have had 5), and fixes things is the house. He is just so awesome, I don't know what Little One or I would do without him. He saves our lives on a daily basis.

Little One is the one who is growing the most. I didn't think it was possible for her to get cuter, but she does almost everyday. She smiles all the time, and has a knack for smiling at just the right time. That right time is when she wakes up too early, or is crying and then you look at her and she smiles. It just melts all or most of the frustration away. Lately she has learned to roll over. This is both good and bad. She can only roll over from back to front really well, so once she gets over sometimes she can roll again, but most times gets upset. I have a video of the first day she did it. The end is really sad because she get so frustrated, so if you don't want to see that than stop the video after about a thirty seconds.

Her other new tricks include holding things. She really has quite a tight grip and loves to hold onto things and then try to stick her hands in her mouth. She also jabbers all the time. It is so funny. I don't know who she is talking to but I hope she is not spilling all the family secrets. We love this little girl so much. She brings so much adventure into life even when she complicates things.

Here are some more pictures of Little One doing her cute thing.

Styling her new hat. She loves that it shades her from the sun.

Crashed out after refusing to eat, and sleep for way too long.

She loves to 'read' her soft book. It really is cute to watch.

Just another cute Sunday picture.

Can you get any cuter than that. I would have to say NO!

Everything seems to be going well here. We are normal people we have good days and bad days but luckily the good out number the bad by quite a bit. We have the best weather ever. It is sunny and warm, not too warm but definitely not cold. We enjoy sitting on the front porch and working in the hard. Holy moly, I sound like I am retired. Oh well, if thats what I do know just imagine how cool it will be when I retire. Actually my retirement will probably be similar to right now--jam packed full of awesome things. Sometimes those things will be relaxing, sometimes playing, and sometimes working. Truly blessed, that is definitely us.

It's Summer

I really don't know what that title has to do with this post accept that it is summer and things are happening. Or at least we are trying to make them happen. Every year especially this time of year I get really antsy to do some traveling. I have stayed here at home base since Christmas. For me that is an incredibly long time to not travel somewhere. Luckily family could come out for little one's arrival and blessing, but I have just really had a travel bug. So, what did we do. Well we debated and debated about going for a 'small trip.' This trip would take us about 3 hours away, we would stay in a cool hotel, and see a few of the sites. As we were deciding what to do, Gaupo as always, said "Adventure Girl its up to you, I will do whatever you want." Well, I knowing full well that we were going to be taking two trips in July and having quite a few expenses for the house coming or have come knew we really couldn't afford it. So, I took to heart Elder Nelson's talk from a couple of conferences ago and remembered the four most loving words are 'We can't afford it.' So, what did we do instead. Well let me tell you about our fabulous weekend.

It all started when Gaupo asked "so what do you want to do." I replied, "Go camping." With a very suspicious look he ask, "in the living room?" "No," I said, "in the basement." He smiled, laughed, and said okay. So, we had an indoor campout.

Friday night we made pretzel dogs. Pretzel dogs are SOOOO good. What they are is homemade soft pretzels wrapped around a hotdog. They are then baked and eaten. Oh my, so good. I love them. They aren't really good for me, but I love them anyway. However, probably my favorite part is that Gaupo and I do it together. We have always enjoyed cooking together, so we do it often and I love it.

The long ones are the Pretzel Dogs the others are just Pretzels.

After we cleaned up we made the treat. Which was yummy homemade ice cream. After having the treat we finished off the night by watching a movie and sleeping in our tent. It was a very fun evening.

I am sure there were other things I was going to write with this blog, but honestly I stopped half way through and I can't remember.

Just an Update

I feel like life is one huge adventure right now, but at the same time it doesn't seem like we do much around here. Either way I thought I would try to give a little update on our family. Little One is know about 2.5 months old. She smiles a smile that would melt your heart. Just take a look.

I love when I go into her room in the morning and she looks at me and smiles. It just reminds me how lucky I am to be her Mom. Also, lately she has picked up jabbering. She will tell us all kinds of stories. We don't really understand, but me and Little One have great conversations, sometimes dad even joins in. One of our all time favorite things to do with Little one is to make her stand. This little video is kind of fun we think she's dancing.

This poor little girl has kind of crazy parents, but she is so loved I don't think that she really cares too much. Other than the great smiling, and jabbering this one is just growing and changing our lives on a daily basis.

Also, about a month ago we blessed Little One. It was great. We had almost all the family here. We were missing one little family and it made a big hole, but we still had a good time anyway. Gaupo gave little one a beautiful blessing and I have now witnessed one thing I always wondered about..."What is it like to have you own child blessed?" Always wondered never knew until now, and it is great. During the weekend of the blessing we had a blast catching up on the happenings of everyone else, and have great food. Anyway, here are a couple of pictures from that wonderfully special day.

A few lucky people got a happy picture, I was not one but its still cute.

Isn't my Family just so cute!!

Guapo and I love being home owners. However, sometimes this is tough love tough, because it can be so depending and cost a lot of money. Just a few of things we have done recently is change the landscaping in the front yard, plant a garden, reseed our lawn, and with a lawn comes purchasing a lawn mower and weed wacker. Here is a pic of Guapo on his first day with our very own mower.

Lets see, what else has happened. Oh yeah, both Gaupo and I have successfully gotten one year older. Gaupo celebrated his by having dutch oven potatoes, steak, and cobbler for food, and by working the entire day. He says his B-day is always his most productive day and he didn't let this year be any different. As for me, I celebrated by working, going to Cub Scouts, and by having Jason take me out for some way good mexican food. We also had my "cake" of vanilla cinnamon rolls, and watched Cars. Really it was a great B-Day and a great way to start off or finish off, however you want to look at it, another year of life. Also, I celebrated what people deemed my first official Mother's Day. I think that my first official Mother's Day was the day I realized I wanted to be a Mom when I grew up. I don't think you have to have kids to celebrate Mother's Day. I think it is the desire that counts and anyone with the courage to wish they had kids and hasn't had the opportunity yet deserves to celebrate that day. Plus, once your a "real" Mom that day is so much more crazy. I was way late to church, and had to worry about someone else the whole time. However, I did get a great dinner of roast and potatoes, so it was really good on that account.

Other than these few thing we pretty much eat, sleep, work, and play. We LOVE it. I wouldn't trade my life for anything. Every day is something new. It is either a new sleep pattern, a new skill learned, more things accomplished, or I just figured out how to have a day where we just recuperate from everything. Yes, even I Adventure Girl sometimes need a day (or more) to just relax and have fun or do nothing. I am so truly blessed to be here and to have the gospel, and friends and family. I really don't know what I would do without those three things they are vitally important to me.

How I Became Know as Mom

Every person called Mom goes through some kind of initiation. It is different for every Mom, and it is a very special and exciting. For me the initiation was called Labor and Delivery. Here is my story of becoming a Mom for the very first time.

On Friday March 2, 2012 I woke up with some cramping, and wondered what it was but didn't worry about it. I didn't worry about it too much because I prayed that morning that if something was wrong I would know. So, just went back to bed to see if more sleep would help. I woke up about 9:00AM and decided that I needed to get on with the day. As the morning progressed, I had a thought occur to me 'maybe this is the beginning stages of labor.' However, I didn't know so I decided to just keep waiting and since it might be I might want to get on with getting things ready. I started by cleaning up LaNina's room. I still had all of her clothes spread out everywhere and nothing put away. I sorted the clothes, boxed up the ones I thought we wouldn't need for awhile, and washed everything I thought we would need the first little while. After her room was clean, I started cleaning all the bathrooms. During this time, I would get a 'cramp' but it wasn't too bad it just reminded me that I wasn't feeling that great, but I kept going. Gaupo game home at about 2:00PM from work and we had lunch and then he went to take a nap. While he was napping I made two pans of Rigatoni for the freezer. By then this 'cramping' was getting worse and I was tired. So, I laid down and about 5:00PM Guapo came downstairs and we talked for a little while. Then he proposed the plan for our date. He said, "Let go to Sam's Club and get the things we need, and the we can get the hot dog combo for dinner."

After I heard this plan I said, "Gaupo, I think I might be in labor."

He replied, "How do you know if you are or not."

"I don't know," I replied.

We dinked around for a few minutes and I deliberated about whether or not it was a good idea to go considering by this time I wasn't feeling all bubbly and full of energy like usual. Yes, even at nine months pregnant I still had energy at night and usually wanted to do things. Anyway, I decided that we should go, so we got in the car and went. On the way there we tried to plan meals for the month, but the contractions were coming pretty strong and I started timing them. They were happening about every 4 minutes. Consequently, about every 4 minutes I could only focus on one thing and that was not losing my breath. They hurt. We arrived at Sam's Club and had only made it through like one week of meals, so we sat out in the parking lot trying to plan them. However, the contractions were not going away so like I said every 4 minutes I was slightly distracted. Finally, we gave up planning and went into the store.

We started gathering what we needed which included a box on New Born size diapers. We only had size one at home and my mom recommended we get some NB. Luckily I took her advice and we picked up a box. Like I mentioned in my previous post I was sure my baby was going to be about 8 pounds so I thought one box would do because we would be in size one before we knew it. As we walked around they started getting stronger. Towards the end they were strong enough that I had to stop walking and hold onto the cart for the time that they were going on. Finally, finished shopping and got dinner. I managed to eat my dinner, but I was feeling pretty yucky by then, but I still wasn't sure if this was the real deal or not.

Gaupo got us home and I went and laid on the couch hoping that a change of positions would cure what was happening, but I was wrong. So, I called the doctor and asked him if he thought I should go to the hospital. He said there is really only one way to know, and that is to just go in and see. Well, I still didn't want to go because I had this fear of being sent home. I only wanted to go to the hospital once. I got up and was going to help Guapo with putting away the chicken, but then a contraction hit and I couldn't. At that point Gaupo said "Go finish getting your bag packed. I will be up in one minute to grab the bags. We are going."

I managed to get my bag packed. LaNina's going home outfit put in her car seat. That is quite a feat for me. So, we go to the hospital, and we get there right before the front entrance closes. Meaning I arrived at the hospital at 9:00PM. Guapo and I go up to the Birth Place. I press the little intercom button and they ask what are you here for?

I reply, " I think I am in labor."

"Okay," they responded and unlocked the door.

Once inside they hooked me up to the monitors and checked my dilation. I was right. They were happening every 4 minutes and I was dilated to a 4 almost a 5. Yes, I am very proud of myself for getting that far without going to the hospital. Anyway at 9:15 I was officially admitted to the hospital.

As we were walking to our room, I got this funny filling like I was going to throw up. However, once we got to the room I was sure and announced that I needed to throw up. The nurse hurry and grabbed a throw up bag, and I threw up. I will spare you the detail of what hot dog and Powerade looked like. After that we got all settled in our room, and they asked if I wanted an epidural. I said, "No not yet." Then they asked if I wanted to get in the jacuzzi bath. "Yes," I replied.

So, my nurse filled up the bath and I got in. Guapo sat by the side and talked to me. It was really nice to be in the water, and for awhile it really did help with the contractions. After awhile the nurse came to check on me and get the baby's heart tones. Then she told us that when I wanted an epidural I need to know that it would take about thirty minutes, so I shouldn't wait till I am like dying of pain to ask for one. I told her I wasn't ready yet and chilled in the bath some more. Then it got a little warm and the contractions were kind of strong, so I decided to get out for a little while. I got out and walked around the room a bit, and threw up. After that I waited a little longer and then told the nurse that I wanted the epidural.

That is when I became confined to the bed. She hooked me back up to the monitors, drew blood, and started running the IV. Then we had to wait for the results from the blood test and the anesthesiologist to arrive. Once all the prep work was done and the epidural was in it was 12:45. They checked my dilation shortly after and I was at an 8. Yes, that is right I made it to and 8 before declaring that I wanted an epidural. I probably shouldn't be so happy, but I am proud of myself, so please don't be offended by this story.

After the epidural was in, they turned off the lights and we went to sleep. At about 2:00 they came in and checked me again and I was at a 10. But, the baby wasn't that far down yet and the epidural was working and the baby wasn't stressed so they decided to just let me labor down for a little while instead of pushing right away. The exact time from this point on are a little foggy, except for the exact time that LaNina was born that time is for sure.

After they thought I had labored down long enough the nurse decided we should try practice pushes. So, Guapo came over to help and we did a couple of sets. On the second one my water finally broke. The nurse stated, "thats cool I have never seen that before." Anyway, I did one more set and then she said "okay we are going to stop and wait for the doctor."

They called my doctor, and while he was coming they prepared the room. It was kind of crazy to see everything. I probably would have enjoyed it more, but I had not had enough sleep. Finally my doctor arrived and he comes into my room in his street clothes. He asks how things are going and where I am at. My nurse said, "She's ready go get changed!" So, he did.

While he was gone we decided to do some more practice pushes, but after like two she said "OKAY, we are waiting for the doctor." So, we waited.

Once Doc came back we started pushing again. I did about three sets of pushes and LaNina was up on my chest. She was born at 4:21AM on 3/3. It was a wonderful experience. I am glad I got to see it (thanks to a mirror). Honestly, it was a really hard really wonderful experience.

If you made it all the way through this congrats! This turned out way longer than I expected but now you know what happened. It was truly amazing. No there are not any pictures of me or labor. That is just something that you will have to imagine because I will say I looked terrible.

Announcing the Arrival of....

LaNina. Her name on this one might change but right now that is what we will use. LaNina made her entrance into the world on 3/3. She weighed 6lbs 6oz, was 19 3/4 inches, and her head was 32 cm. Yes, she was tiny. I was sure I was going to have an 8lbs baby but boy was I off. I was also off on when she would be born, and well pretty much everything I estimated about. So, what does she look like well. Take a look.

Right After she was born.

This is later in the day after she was born. This outfit she has on is a funny dress thing the put on her because she couldn't maintain her body temperature very well for the first 24hours of life.

This is Gaupo and LaNina. I love this picture!!

This is the day we came home from the Hospital.

This is a one to two week old picture.

This is her at thee weeks.

Another one at three weeks but with her eyes open.

Pre-BIRTHday Parties

I figured I better write something quick before something AMAZING happens. So here is my short blub about the pre-birthday parties I have had. The first pre-party happened on Thursday, February 16th. It was a surprise party thrown by my work. We were having our normal monthly luncheon, and things were starting to wrap up, and I thought it was a little early to be done with lunch, but people were starting to act like it was time to be done. Then the next thing I know one of my co-workers rolls in a decorated cart, and another brings in cupcakes with baby stuff on top of them. I said "Oh, my goodness." Because I instantly knew it was for me, because no one else is having a baby. So, we had cupcakes and opened presents. It was so fun, and such a surprise, which pleased everyone at work very much.

This is just a pic that shows the cupcakes and Guapo and I in twinner shirts.

This expression, is really saying "These are so cute, I wanted some of these." In reference to cute shoe socks.

This is the best shot I have of this orange cow outfit. This present came with the best card. The card said "To the little girl that the world and Magnelab have been waiting for." True or not I have been waiting, and I think the world revolves around me.

I chose this picture because it was a pretty good belly shot, showed the cupcakes, and some of the flower bouquet I received.

So, the next shower was this past weekend. It was thrown by some of my friends. It was so fun. We played a very unique baby shower game, that was actually really intense, and fun. It was really funny to watch every one's personalities come alive during the game. I received many wonderful gifts, had great treats, and spent a great couple of hours with friends. We laughed hard, talked a lot, oo-ed and ahh-ed over baby stuff, and even got a little competitive. Sounds like the perfect party to me, and you know what I couldn't have planned a better baby shower if I had tried. I came home and told Jason, " I don't know how I can ever thank the people that came enough, or even pass this kindness forward, because these ladies are so skilled in what they do." Needless to say I loved it and am so grateful for all the wonderful friends we have made in our short time here. Here are some pictures.

Me with the huge, cute butterfly cake. It tasted so good. They also served punch in the cups you can see, and they had nuts, and M&M's.

This is a pic that shows most everyone and the action and activity during the game.

 A beautiful quilt made by two of my friends. They made it neutral colors, just in case it was a boy, and because they said every man gets sick of pink when they have a girl. Guapo, said "thank you."

That is a little bit about the pre-birthday parties. They were fun, and perfect. I loved every minute of them except for when they had to end. I have such wonderful friends, who make it so having family far away is not as bad as it normally would. They take care of me and love me, so what more could I ask for. Oh yeah, for my baby to come when I think it is a good time. However, I will take her anytime, so long as she gets here.

Gaupo is the Best!!

This weekend Gaupo and I decided that it was time we get some projects done. So, we set our goal and got to it. First off was getting homework completed, and most of the errands ran. Gaupo is currently going to school for is Maters in Information Assurance. He absolutely loves learning more about his favorite things, networking and security. I actually find it interesting too. I read the papers he writes and so I get the cleaned up and sorted through version of what he learns, but it works for me and apparently his teachers as we have done really well so far. (knock on wood) So, Gaupo needed to finish his homework for the week, so while he was doing that I ran to the bank and the post office. The bank was a much needed task and the post office well that has to do with my passport.

Passports story: I have been wanting my passport for a long time. I finally received the money that I needed for it when I graduated from College this past April. Well, one of the things you need for your passport is your birth certificate. Mine is at my parents house. Since you can't give the Government a copy I had to have the original and I didn't really want it sent through the mail for security reasons, so I had to patiently wait until July for my mom to bring it up to me. I finally have my birth certificate, so I set up the appointment for August and I show up and hand them my birth certificate and driver's license and the guy says "oh, they just changed the rules you have to have an in-state driver's license." The waiting game began again. Jason and I couldn't get in-state licenses because we need to keep our Idaho insurance for a little while longer. Finally in November we got in-state insurance and licenses. So, while Gaupo was in Haiti I went to another appointment. This time everything went through. Well, I thought that was all dandy till I called to check up on my passport because it was past time. Well apparently they don't forward passport information, so they had to change my address in the system. In a couple of days I received this huge letter from the department of state. They need more information. AHHHHH!!!!! Thanks to my wonderful mother I was able to find 5 documents that were five years or older. I also completed the additional information they needed. That is the packet I took to the post office. Hopefully this time, it will all go through and I will have a passport. Oh man, good thing I didn't know it would be this complicated or I probably wouldn't have gotten it.


Sorry, back to this weekend. I came home from running those errands and we moved onto the next project. The next project was to deep clean our showers. I need to use some pretty strong smelling chemicals to do it, and Guapo said "those are too strong you shouldn't be breathing those while pregnant, so I will do it." So, he started on the showers and I corrected his papers. Yes, my wonderful Gaupo not only cleaned two showers once, but twice. Yeah awesome, I know. I cleaned the sinks and the toilets and guess what we have clean bathrooms. Yeah!! After cleaning we did Gaupo's project. Building a fire pit. We have it built and my mom is terrified because we didn't build it with fire rocks, but it will work for a little while until we can get some good rocks. So, Gaupo dug the hole for the pit while I cleaned the bedrooms and dusted. Then I helped Gaupo make the ring around the pit. After the pit was dug, Guapo was asked to come help with a computer problem by a member in our ward. So, we headed out to do our shopping and stopped by there house. It wasn't something that was a quick fix, so we took the computer with us, went shopping and then came home. Once home, we started making dinner. A marvelous dinner--Dutch oven potatoes and Polish Sausages.

The Completed Fire Pit.

Gaupo warming up more coals.

The reward-good food.

It was so, good. The original plan for the evening was to watch Lord of the Rings 3, but when we put it on I just couldn't watch it, so Guapo being the wonderful guy that he is pulled out the movie he had been dying to see, and instead let us watch The Blindside. After the movie we worked on the computer, got cleaned up, and crashed out.


To, Sunday, has been a lazy day. Which is great, because right now are lives  seem to be really hectic with classes, work, callings, and random activities that always seem to Pop up. Life is good, the baby is growing, and we really can't complain. We are richly blessed to be living where we are and doing what we are doing. It has all been made possible through the Lord. He is truly watching over and blessing us every day.