{five things • xxviii}

Well, three months have come and gone in the blink of an eye. This year has proven to be quite the roller coaster ride for our little family, but we are still standing strong. I must have written at least a dozen posts in my head over my blogging hiatus; perhaps some of them will make their way here in the coming weeks. In the meantime, I thought jumping back in with a Five Things post would be a good way to catch up a little on all the goings-on here.

- one -

Getting tested for Celiac disease with some help from Dora

As crazy as I thought last year was with all of Reilly's health issues, this year has been even more intense. 

There has not been a single child excluded from our medical smorgasbord this year. Lots of stress, lots of worry. Thankfully, most concerns have turned out to be less serious than initially thought or have resolved somewhat with some dietary adjustments here in the home.

I have done a lot of researching, reading, pondering, and praying. I have learned much about different schools of thought when it comes to diet and healing. It is amazing to me how the body can heal itself when given the proper tools through appropriate nourishment.

Currently, we are trying to work our way through sensory processing disorder, likely gluten intolerance, and kidney reflux. 

Excited about her "hospital dress"

Just a couple of weeks ago we took Dani up to Primary Children's in Salt Lake to have her tested for kidney reflux. She was showing similar symptoms like Reilly had when she was first diagnosed-- and statistically she had a very decent chance of having the same condition as it is genetically linked. Fortunately for all of us, the test results came back negative.  

While I wish we had some answers as to why she was experiencing so much pain, I am grateful that I don't have to worry about her having the same health issues as Reilly.

Hopefully her symptoms will not return.

- two -

I've been thinking a lot about this post that I wrote back in December of last year. It resonates even more with me now that it did then.

In our culture, it seems that we typically interpret [the] phrase "endure to the end" as one of those necessary evils of life... 'Endure' is synonymous with pain, difficulty. Just thinking about it makes people tired.

Coming from an athletic background, this take has always intrigued me a little.

I swam competitively for over ten years, and coached for many, many more afterward. Being that I am decidedly short and curvy, I myself have never been praised for my natural sprinting abilities. I simply don't have the physical attributes necessary to succeed against a competitive field of Missy Franklin look-alikes. But the endurance events, ah! That's where I finally was able to find my niche. 

Which leads me to this important thought:

In athletics, endurance is not a bad thing.  
To the contrary, it is something to strive for. 

Also in that post, I wrote about Bryson's and my friend Jarom, who is an ultra-marathoner and works with recovering addicts. Well coincidentally enough, KSL did a fabulous piece on him this last week and I thought I'd share it here. (Click on Sunday Edition: Segment 2, or for a shortened version with text click here.) It's well worth your time.

- three -

It never fails to amaze me how God can speak words of encouragement to our hearts if we only open our eyes to see and ears to hear. Lately a little tender mercy has been inserted into my days through this song:

I am not exaggerating when I tell you that this song has been the first or second song that comes on the radio every time I have gotten in my car at the beginning of the day for the last couple of weeks-- at least 80% of the time. It helps remind me to keep everything in perspective and to know that I am never alone.

- four -

Lately, I am really enjoying studying the words of Elder Richard G. Scott-- specifically his writings on personal revelation and the Holy Ghost, and Sister Patricia T. Holland. If you haven't read Sister Holland's book A Quiet Heart, you must, you must, you must! It's on a very short list of books I re-read every year. I've been working my way through it again this month and will probably write some more about some of the insights I've gleaned from her wisdom this time around.

Some links I highly recommend:

"To Acquire Knowledge and the Strength to Use it Wisely," Elder Richard G. Scott (video here)
"How to Obtain Revelation and Inspiration for Your Personal Life," Elder Richard G. Scott
"Be Renewed in the Spirit of Your Mind," Sister Patricia T. Holland (video here)
"The Soul's Center," Sister Patricia T. Holland (video here)
"What Time is This?" Elder Jeffrey R. Holland & Sister Patricia T. Holland (video here)

- five -

And.... just because I can't resist the cuteness:

This little guy makes me laugh every day.

• • •

And those are my Five Things for the week!
Thanks for hosting the regular blog hop, Heather. Best wishes to you and yours.
♥

{five things xxiii}

Per Heather's request, I'm posting a Five Things-- Halloween Style. :)

Now, truth be told, Halloween really isn't my favorite holiday. I have fun dressing the kids up and usually myself as well (although sleep deprivation won out to getting a costume for me this year!), but as for the creepy and gory aspects of the day I am just not a fan. I don't like violence... and scary movies are r-e-a-l-l-y not my thing, unless you're talking about old classics like Wait Until Dark.  (The last scary movie I watched was 2002's The Ring... and I'm pretty sure it will be my last. Scared the living daylights out of me, and I think I only watched about half of it-- the rest of the time I covered my eyes!) There's enough darkness in the world without me seeking it out for entertainment.

I've enjoyed hearing ideas on alternative ways to celebrate the day from interesting people from various corners of the web, including Heather, Misty, and Jen. Perhaps next year we'll incorporate some of their ideas with our own traditions to add a little extra depth to the holiday.

At our kids' charter school, instead of a traditional Halloween party, the elementary grades put on a History Fair. Each grade dresses according to the historical era they are studying in their classes and they visit all the grades to learn a little about each time period. I really love that idea, and it was a lot of fun for Taylor and Reilly.

So, without further ado, here are my five little trick-or-treaters!

- one -

Taylor's class is studying the War of 1812. In his class there were soldiers, pioneers, pirates, elegantly dressed ladies of the era... but Taylor was the only Red Coat! 

After researching a little on what the soldiers' uniforms looked like, we decided with a little modification that a marching band costume would make a great British uniform. He was quite debonaire, don't you think? 

That crooked smile. It kills me. :)

- two -

Reilly's class is studying ancient Egypt, so she went as an Egyptian princess. At first she was really excited to get dressed up and do the eye makeup, and then after she saw herself in the mirror she wasn't too sure anymore. I think she was a little nervous of being the only one decked out quite like she was. Once we arrived at the school and she saw all her classmates she became very enthusiastic again. She had lots of other Egyptian princesses, pharaohs, and mummies to keep her company. Taylor said that if he had been in her class he would have gone as Joseph of Egypt or an Israelite slave. That made me smile.

- three - 

With Dani's current girly-girl fascination with all things princess-y or fairy-related, I thought for sure she'd go with one of Reilly's old costumes this year. However, she was not impressed. Instead, she found Taylor's old horse costume and THAT is what she HAD to be this year. She was pretty adorable, I must say. Although, I kept thinking of Jacqueline from the movie Ever After and chuckling. 

"Honestly, Jacqueline, the horse is one of God's noblest creatures!"

- four -

Logan was our resident dragon this year. He was so excited when he saw the costume and immediately got into character the second he put it on. 

He has been running around the house ever since roaring fiercely, as a good dragon should.

I don't think we are ever going to get him to take it off.

- five -

And to round it all out, one of the cutest little monsters this green earth has ever seen.

I adore this happy little man.

• • •

And those are my five things for the week!

Warm wishes to you and yours.

♥

He's Here!

Our little Owen was born three weeks early on June 19th!
5 pounds 15.5 ounces-- rounded up on his birth certificate to 6 pounds even-- and 18 inches long.

One of these days I'll get around to writing a new post... I have started several only to be stymied by the newborn-induced sleep deprivation brain fog. He is doing wonderful, and we are so happy to have him here. I am doing pretty well, having had to deal with some minor postpartum complications.

But mostly, I am so profoundly grateful.
It is an amazing thing, being a mother.

Lead Me, Guide Me, Walk Beside Me

Both of my daughters are confirmed "daddy's girls."

Just last night, Reilly announced to us before bed that while she loved both Bryson and I lots and lots, she loved her daddy more.

Although I can't deny that it stung a little, I know it's nothing personal.

I was once a daddy's girl myself.

And when you have a daddy like mine, you recognize that it is something special. Something to be treasured.

In this world where men are so strongly encouraged to create a legacy of material wealth, I stand in awe of those who choose to prioritize their lives toward building a spiritual legacy instead.

Of fathers who love their children, and choose to engage themselves fully in their lives.

Who build and uplift.
Who strengthen and encourage.

Fathers who tell their children that they love them fiercely-- not just by their actions, but with their words too. Fathers who don't assume that their children know how they feel, but communicate so that there can be no doubt in their minds exactly where they stand.

Who lead by love, not fear. By inspiration, not oppression.

Fathers who seek to be led themselves by their own Father in Heaven as they navigate through the uncertain waters of parenthood.

I am grateful to have been raised by such a father, and feel extraordinarily blessed to also have such a man as a father to my own children. I cannot imagine my life without either of them, and thank God that my own boys have such wonderful role models of what true manhood looks like in their lives.

Thank you, Dad.
Thank you, Bryson.
Thank you, Real Fathers everywhere.

{five things xx}

- one -

Yesterday we celebrated the birth day of our newest niece, baby Iris.

Bryson and I took our whole crew up to the hospital for a visit, thinking it would be great for our little ones to meet their cousin fresh from heaven's doorstep. I was also curious to see how they would respond to a tiny babe in arms, being that our new arrival is slated to join our family very shortly.

As expected, Reilly and Dani fawned over little Iris, and took turns cradling her close and cooing over her every move. Logan at first seemed completely apathetic toward the baby, more interested in the fact that he could open and close just about any door in my sister-in-law's hospital room. However, when we sat him on Bryson's lap to actually hold the baby, his demeanor changed completely. Affectionate and attentive, my little two-year-old boy gazed at Iris and gave her countless kisses on the cheek. Taylor surprised me the most. Normally our most intense child, he was singularly gentle and tender. He was completely awestruck by his sweet little cousin. In turn I was awestruck by his soft and loving response.

I have thought a lot about how our four children will adapt to the fifth little sibling in the coming days.

After witnessing their outpouring of love and adoration for little Iris, I am sure that everything is going to be just fine. Every child should feel so welcomed and wanted. 

- two -

I am honestly just grateful to have made it to the weekend in one piece.

It has been a crazy week.

Mostly, it's of my own creation. Having known our baby's due date would fall this time of the year had me trying to squeeze in summer activities for our two oldest in the first two weeks of June. Normally, I'm not one to overschedule our kids-- in fact, I really try to stay away from that sort of thing. Now I'm even more convinced to avoid it.

Soccer day camp, track, swim lessons, dance rehearsals & end of the year recital...

I am happy to say that we made it through without too much wear and tear, and that the kids had an absolute blast.

I am even more happy that we don't have any more weeks of insanity to deal with for the rest of the summer.

- three -

As someone who grew up a Latter-Day Saint in the Chicago area, I've really enjoyed all the positive press concerning Jabari Parker, an LDS high school basketball phenom on the rise. With all the misconceptions swirling out there about my faith in the media, one of the most troubling to me personally is that Latter-Day Saints are racist. As someone who was raised not to see color and having grown up in an environment with friends and acquaintances of all creeds and walks of life, it is an accusation that really gets under my skin. 

Watching someone like Jabari speak honestly and frankly about his faith does this Chicago girl good. 

 

On a recent visit to Utah, Jabari and his brother Christian came and visited with my friend Lindsey and her children after chatting with them on a local radio program. She wrote a great post about their experience-- if you want to read a story that will bring a smile to your face, you'll have to check it out here.

- four -

Last year I wrote a post about Reilly's introduction to competitive swimming and her emphatic declaration that that was what she wanted to do when she got older.

As I've explained before, despite both Bryson's and my passion for the sport-- both having competed and coached for many years-- we have made a very conscious choice not to push our children into it. While we have made swim lessons a priority because we feel it is an important life skill to have, we haven't encouraged or discouraged the competitive side of the sport, leaving it more to them to explore and discover their innate talents and interests. I want them to follow their own passions and dreams.

But every once in awhile, Reilly's swimming aspirations rise to the surface again-- usually when I am least expecting them. This past week it was a spontaneous attempt at butterfly during swim lessons. 

I couldn't believe what I was seeing.

As a former flier myself, I couldn't help but beam with maternal pride. 

It's a pretty good try for a little five year old!

After lessons that day, Reilly informed me that when she grows up she wants to be a ballerina, a swim coach, and a cowgirl.

I believe she may very well do just that.

- five -

The official song of summer has hit our house.

You know a song is ridiculously infectious when even the two-year-olds sing along with the chorus.

I am totally not exaggerating-- Logan is singing at this very moment while I embed the video from YouTube.

Taylor and Reilly know every word by heart and request that I play it on repeat.
And for some reason, it hasn't gotten old yet.
As soon as I get back to running, I expect it will go to the top of my workout playlist.

So with that, I give you TobyMac's "Me Without You"

Listen at your own risk. Just be prepared to throw down some of your best dance moves.
(It's hard to resist.)

• • •

And those are my five things for the week!
Have a wonderful weekend everyone. ♥

{five things xix}

- one -

Last week we celebrated the wedding of Bryson's baby brother Kyle to his beautiful bride Meggen. 

Attending a temple wedding is such a joyous, spiritual experience. I am so grateful that we were able to be present on their special day.

Even if it did make me feel a bit old.

 Kyle was just eleven years old when Bryson and I were married.

Kyle dancing with my mom at B's & my wedding

Seriously?
Where does the time go?

But being there in that sacred space witnessing Kyle and Meggen make holy covenants with one another and the Lord, I was transported back to that beautiful day when Bryson and I knelt across a similar altar in the Chicago Temple and made those same promises ten years ago. To honor and cherish one another not just until death do us part but for time and all eternity.

 I love being married to my very best friend, and I wish my brother and newest sister-in-law the same happiness that Bryson and I share. Truly, there is nothing better.

- two -

Laying in bed-- home base for the next few weeks

I'm still hanging in there at 36 weeks.

Really, I'm doing pretty well.

Lately I have been going through this disconcerting cycle where my pulse will start racing inexplicably (it was 140 bpm yesterday just laying in bed!), then normalize, then my blood pressure will shoot up, then normalize.  It hasn't had any adverse effects on the baby as of yet and it hasn't been severe enough to warrant additional medical intervention, so I just keep trying to lay low and rest up. Other than the exhaustion and occasional headaches, I've felt fine. We'll continue to watch and monitor my condition, but I feel confident that everything will work out well. I've been through this weird borderline preeclampsia twice before, so it's not foreign territory to me.

It occurred to me recently that all of the pictures I've taken of myself during this pregnancy have been on a Sunday morning before church or some other event where I am dressed up and have actually brushed my hair. 

NOT what I normally look like on a regular basis

This is SO not my daily look.

Lately I have been sporting Bryson's oversized college T-shirts and basketball shorts around the house, and if I'm leaving the house then I'll think about putting on some maternity jeans or a good stretchy skirt. It's all about comfort couture at this point.

Despite all the physical difficulties and emotional fatigue I've been going through, I can honestly say that this pregnancy has been very rewarding. I have learned a lot about myself and have grown in many new and different ways-- mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Here's hoping for another few weeks of baby growing!

- three -

On Friday I acquired a copy of this wonderful book, The Gift of Giving Life, which is coauthored by several LDS women I've gotten to know through the blogosphere-- including my friend Heather at Women in the Scriptures.

I was pretty certain that I would enjoy the text, knowing what I know about the authors and the subject at hand, but it has far exceeded my expectations. I have devoured this book, having already read halfway through the 500-some pages since Friday evening. 

Many of the essays included have brought me to tears, and others have filled me with such peace and joy.

As the delivery of our baby boy soon approaches, I have been grateful to read such inspired and inspiring words concerning the divine work we as mothers do in bringing children into this world.

Thanks, ladies, for all the work you put into this beautiful book! I have appreciated your thoughts so very much, especially at this time in my life.

- four -

In keeping with the baby theme going on this week, I thought I'd share this video clip from KSL's Studio 5 of my super talented friend Melissa Martinson.

She is a wonderful photographer based in Cache Valley that specializes in work with babies and small children. She had some great tips for getting the most out of your own home photography with a newborn, and I thought I'd share the information-- I know I'll be using a lot of it in the coming weeks!

You can also check out Melissa's blog here. She does amazing family and wedding photography in addition to her beautiful infant portraiture.

- five -

And just because I think it's awesome...
I thought I'd share this video PBS recently put together of various clips from Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood all remixed into a completely new-- and modern-- creation.
As someone who grew up watching Fred Rogers pretty much daily, it made me smile.
He always seemed like such a meek and humble soul. A gentle man.
I think our world could do with many more like him.








• • •

And those are my five things for the week!
Best wishes, everyone. ♥

Momma's Boy

Seven years ago today, you came into our lives, changing our world forever.

After three years of marriage and rounds of fertility medication, we still found ourselves waiting for your arrival. I can clearly remember the tears I shed, and the prayers I said-- pleading with God to bless us with your little spirit.

Little spirit, ha.
Clearly, I mean Big Spirit.

Just like Hannah of old, I promised that if God would see fit to bless our home with one of His children that I would do all in my power to raise you in the arms of His love.

Shortly after I made that solemn covenant with the Lord, you were on your way.

After a difficult pregnancy, and an even more difficult (torturous, really) labor, you made your grand entrance into this world. I snuggled you on my chest, and you looked back at me with eyes wide open. Only minutes old, and you were taking it all in. Inquisitive and intelligent.

Soon after, however, there were complications. You weren't able to keep the necessary oxygen level in your blood stream for your tiny body to thrive. Tucked away in your little incubator, I made the regular journey to visit you and hold you close. The nurses all seemed to think that I was very strong emotionally. But that wasn't it, really. I just had the calm and peaceful assurance from the Spirit that everything would be alright.

And soon enough, you were.

We took you home, and to this day I cannot remember a time when I felt more overwhelmed and completely incompetent. I couldn't believe they actually let me leave the hospital with you! Didn't they know I had absolutely no clue what I was doing?

Thank goodness your daddy was there that first week to show me the ropes. And thank goodness I'm a fairly swift learner. We got the hang of it pretty quickly, you and me.

You were patient with me as I learned how to be a mommy. And I tried my best to be patient with you as you grew much faster than I was prepared for.

Each and every day I look at you and am amazed with who you are and all that you are becoming. Your strong, intense determination and enthusiasm for life drives everything you do. Your thirst for knowledge and desire to understand things of both heaven and earth inspire me to no end. You challenge me constantly, and I am all the better for it.

I am continually surprised by the things you teach me in the moments I need it most.

I am grateful that even after seven years, you still love to snuggle up next to me and simply be.

These days I look at you, and I am still overwhelmed.
Overwhelmed with gratitude.

Thank you for the privilege it is to be your mother.
I loved you even before you were born, and I will love you still through all the eternities to come.

Happy Birthday, Taylor.

{five things xvii}

Today is my parents' 35th wedding anniversary.
If you know my family and I personally, you also know that we are very close-knit.  There aren't many words that can even begin to touch upon how great an influence my parents have had on me, and even fewer that can describe how much I love them.

So today, for my Friday Five, I thought I'd share five life lessons that they have passed on to me as I make my own journey through life.  Limiting them to just five, of course, is a vast oversimplification, but of all the things I have learned from my parents these are a handful that have made me who I am today.

- one -

Don't take yourself too seriously. Make time to be silly.

Dance in the kitchen, while doing chores... pretty much anytime at all, actually.

Get down on the floor and play with your kids.  Have family inside jokes.  

Embarrass your teenagers with your enthusiasm for life.  

(Their friends will love you for it-- and secretly, those embarrassed teenagers are only feigning annoyance.)

- two - 

Don't underestimate yourself, and don't be afraid to try new things. You are more important than you can possibly imagine, even if you feel small and insignificant.

Never settle for second best.

- three - 

Anchor yourself to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

It will be a light in the dark times in your life, and a guide to bring you your greatest happiness in this life and throughout all eternity.

Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek your own answers.

History will teach you that men are fallible and imperfect, but God is unfailing.

If you seek after His spirit and follow the example of our Savior, you will never be steered wrong. 

- four -

 Bloom where you're planted.

Life will lead you down unexpected paths, and often you will find yourself places you may not have chosen on your own.  Find the beauty in the environment and people around you wherever you go.

If you choose to look and see, you will find it every time.

- five -

Family is forever.

No matter what else changes around us, family is the one thing that will remain constant.

Home will always be a soft place to land.

No matter how many mistakes we've made, no matter how far we've fallen, we will always find safety and security in our parents' arms.

Their love is unconditional.

I love you, Mom and Dad.

Here's to another 35 years to come.

• • •

And those are my five things for Friday!

♥

April Adventures • A Birthday Celebration

Last Friday was a Very Special Day.

Danika & Logan celebrated their second birthday with family, food, and in Dani's case, a hijacked teal tutu from her big sister's closet.  It's funny how just a couple of years ago I couldn't for the life of me imagine how I would ever manage life with twins.  Now, I think it's safe to say that we can't imagine what life would be like without these two little loves in our home.  In many ways, they have brought our little family even closer together.  The bonds that they have developed with their older siblings are especially precious to me. 

Just in the past few months they have grown so much.  They have transformed from our little babies to expressive, inquisitive children seemingly in the blink of an eye.  I am tremendously proud of them and the sweet, loving spirit they bring into our home.  They make me laugh out loud every single day.

Happy Birthday, twinners! 

April Adventures • Easter Sunday

Easter is my most favorite holiday.

The fact that there is less commercialization along with fewer obligations to go, do, and be in so many places throughout the holiday season like we experience at Christmastime may have something to do with it.  But mostly, I just love the majesty of the message of Christ's Atonement coupled with the beauty of new life emerging in nature.  I love teaching my children about the Easter story, and keeping the focus directly on the Savior.

We typically enjoy a nice Easter dinner with roasted lamb as the main dish.  This year there were some complications in that regard now that Reilly is old enough to put two and two together when it comes to consuming meat and recognizing the animal from which it comes.  She was surprisingly accepting when it came to the idea of eating lamb, but she insisted that we call it "meat" and not "lamb" when Sheepie was in the room.  Whenever we spoke of Easter dinner during the week, she carefully covered Sheepie's eyes and plugged her ears so that she wouldn't be traumatized.  Such a compassionate little shepherdess, that Reilly.

The other day, she asked me out of the blue, "Mom, do you know why I love Sheepie so much?"

"Why?" I responded, slightly distracted as I unloaded the dishwasher.

"Because she reminds me of Jesus Christ." came the answer.

She now had my complete attention.

"Really?  How is that, sweetie?" I inquired.

Taylor interjected, "Because Jesus is the Lamb of God."  Reilly nodded in agreement.

"That's true," I acknowledged.  "He is also called the Good Shepherd.  I especially love His story about the lost sheep."

Reilly spoke up again, "Yes, that is my favorite story.  I love the Lost Sheep story."

Those two... they sure know how to warm this mother heart of mine.

April Adventures • Beachside

There is something inherently pacifying about the ocean.  After the crowds and clamor of Disneyland, relaxing on the white sands of Huntington Beach were a breath of fresh air.  We realized after a few hours of fun in the sun that we could have spent an entire vacation just soaking up the tranquility that the Pacific offered.  It had been entirely too long since I had last breathed in the salty air and listened to the rhythmic lull of the cresting waves.  So heavenly.

It was our kids' first time exploring the ocean shoreline-- in fact, Taylor was the only one of our little brood to have even seen the ocean previously, and he was less than a year old when we stayed on the rocky coast of Mendocino, CA.  Being there to witness their childlike awe at the vastness and beauty of the California coast was absolutely priceless.  They loved every minute we were there.  Only Logan was timid about wading in the water, and once he experienced a little incoming wave knocking him off his feet he was decidedly intent on staying in his momma's arms.  Taylor and Reilly happily collected sea shells and built sand castles, while Dani did her best to help.

As we reluctantly headed back to our hotel after a beautiful afternoon, Taylor remarked, "that was even better than Space Mountain!"  I couldn't agree more.  

April Adventures • Disney Magic

As you may have noticed, posts have been a bit sparse around here this month.  Our April has been filled to the brim with vacation, family time, Easter worship, a birthday celebration, and copious amounts of Spring Fever. To catch up a bit over the next few days, I thought I'd post some picture collages and highlights of our many adventures of the past several weeks. 

The first week of April found us making our first big family vacation to Southern California.  It was the kids' first visit to Disneyland, and my first time as an adult-- the last time I had been in Anaheim was when I was Reilly's age!  (Growing up east of the Mississippi, we made our family Disney treks to Walt Disney World in Orlando.) We had a wonderful time, and made memories to last a lifetime.

• • •

So, in no particular order, here are some things that we learned during our magical stay.

1. It is not advisable to ride the Mad Tea Party when you are pregnant.  I was nauseated for at least an hour afterward.  Of course, having a husband who loves to crank the center turning mechanism may have something to do with my experience.  Your mileage may vary.

2. If you are attending the Disney parks with Dani, be prepared to ride King Arthur's Carousel at least three times during your visit.  She will beam with joy the entire length of the ride, and shed many tears each time she has to dismount her noble steed.

3. When participating in any ride that involves water (Splash Mountain, Grizzly River Run), Reilly will inevitably be the individual that receives the brunt of the splashdown. Every. Single. Time.

4. If your household includes a Star Wars fanatic like our Taylor, the "build your own light saber" kiosk in Tomorrowland is not to be missed.  It more than made up for a keen disappointment in his not being chosen to participate in the Jedi Training Academy show.

5. Kids will never fail to surprise you.  Reilly absolutely loved Space Mountain but was terrified in the Haunted Mansion. Logan, on the other hand, loved the Haunted Mansion and cheered the whole time.  (Along with Dumbo, it was his favorite ride!) Ry was also very timid around the characters that roamed the park. Taylor, on the other hand, ran right up to Woody in Frontierland and gave him a huge hug!

6. "A Pirate's Life for Me" and "It's a Small World" will cement themselves in the inner recesses of your brain and repeat ad nauseam even after you have been home for several weeks. You have been warned. 

7. If you are pregnant, the absolute best place in the entire park is the Enchanted Tiki Room-- while enjoying a Dole Whip float.  Seriously, heaven in a glass.

8. But perhaps most of all, be prepared to see everything through the eyes of a child again.  It simply transforms the world around you, and makes each moment so very magical. Being able to bottle some of that perspective up and bring it home with us has been worth every penny spent.

{five things xiv}

- one -

Taylor came home from school a couple of days ago with a quarter taped to a note card.  When I asked him about it, he told me that he had found it in the school atrium a few weeks ago and had been concerned about the student that lost it, so he turned it in to his teacher.

They gave it to the school office, which held on to it in case someone came looking for it.  When it was never claimed, they returned it to Taylor.

  

Now, a quarter found on the ground may not seem like a lot to you or me, but for Taylor it is some serious coin.  I was so proud of him that he would think of others before himself and turn it in.  After I told him as much and gave him a big hug and kiss he looked at me and added,

"I found a bouncy ball in the hall the other day and turned that in too...  but that one they haven't given back to me yet."

I'm grateful to hear of his small acts of honesty in the moments when no one is watching.  It does a mama proud.

- two -

Work on the temple site continues to move forward, with the construction offices and other preliminary tasks being completed.

Several weeks ago they put up this big green fence surrounding the grounds, which I have affectionately christened "the Bryson barrier."

For the last few months, Bryson had enjoyed driving his work truck onto the site and getting the inside scoop from the workers -- who happen to be from a sister company.  No longer.  He is pretty bummed about it, even though we knew it was an inevitability.

Work on the temple itself is scheduled to reconvene in earnest on the 16th, according to our stake president.  It's an exciting time.

- three -

I really enjoyed this editorial from the Huffington Post this week.

Written by Kara Gebhart Uhl, it's entitled "Apologies to the Parents I Judged Four Years Ago."

I love her take on how your perspective on parenting completely changes after you have children.  I know I am entirely guilty of having had a perfectionistic ideal of parenting prior to actually having children of my own.  When you are actually thrown into the throes of motherhood, however, reality hits hard. Suddenly you realize that some days just aren't going to go the way you'd like and you have to make peace with complete and utter imperfection.

I particularly enjoyed these thoughts of hers:

My day-to-day routine isn't what I envisioned it would be four years ago. Some of the things I imagine I'm judged on now are minor, others, a little more major. But mostly they are simple faults and I now know that they don't make me a bad parent. Sometimes I leave dirty diapers on the changing table. My children's socks don't always match. I forget to brush my daughter's hair. I use TV as a way to take a breather. I utilize the fast-food drive-thru. I bribe. I'm sometimes too easy. I'm sometimes too hard. I sometimes make the wrong decision, give the wrong punishment, ask too much, ask too little. But within all these minor and major faults is a singular truth: Most days, I'm doing the best I can. And I honestly believe that's a truth that can be applied to most parents: Most days, we're all doing the best we can.

- four -

Don't you just love the fashion sense of a five-year-old girl?

Reilly was able to go back to school this week, and yesterday was Grandparents' Day for their class.  My parents made the drive down from Cache Valley to attend with her this year, and Reilly wanted to be dressed to the nines for the big occasion.

This is what she came upstairs wearing.

In case you can't quite make out the entire ensemble, that's a bright teal shirt, pink/brown/white skirt, bright red and black checkered socks (with snowmen on them), and her gray Sketchers.  Oh, and her fake pearls-- keeping it classy.

It was so incredibly awesome.

If it had been a normal day here at home I probably would have let it go, but I figured a fashion intervention was probably best for our purposes that day.  Luckily, she was sufficiently impressed with my proposed modifications.

- five -

You may have heard on the news, but Oreo just celebrated its 100th birthday this week. 

Here at our house we're pretty healthy eaters-- mostly whole foods and all that.  But all six of us have a horrible weakness for the yummy sandwich cookies.

Growing up, Oreos were a way of life.  Every Saturday night we would have what my dad called "wild and crazy parties."  It was simply code for Oreo cookies and milk with the family.  To this day, it's not really a party at the Ensign house unless there are Oreos involved.

I'm pretty sure my sister could live off of them.

Happy Birthday, Oreo!
Thanks for the memories.


• • •

And those are my five things for the week!
Best wishes for a  wonderful spring weekend, everyone.

Full Hands, Full Hearts

This past fall, our family spent several days exploring Bryce Canyon. Traipsing about the various hiking trails with four small children in tow, we soon discovered that to many people we were quite the spectacle-- not the majestic scenery around us.

With Taylor and Reilly blazing the way, Dani on Bryson's chest, and Logan on my back, we caught many fellow tourists do a double take as we meandered on by.

Many people struck up little conversations with us as our paths crossed, usually beginning with either, "You two look like you have your hands full!" or "Wow, you guys sure are brave!"

Several times, groups would pass by us and then-- thinking we were out of earshot-- remark, "Now that is a lot of kids!"  Sometimes it was said with bemusement, sometimes a bit snarkily. 

My initial reaction to the fuss we were making was somewhere along the lines of, "Seriously?  There's only four!"  I do realize that here in Utah the average family size is much larger than the rest of the United States-- and other Western countries for that matter, but still... four?  Growing up with two siblings of my own in the Midwest didn't seem to raise any eyebrows, why would the addition of one more make such a difference today?

Was it because we seemed a bit young to have so many children?

At 34, I certainly don't feel that young.

Was it because they were so close in age, with our oldest only six?

Given the fertility struggles we had in getting our family started, and nearly four-year-gap between Reilly and the twins, it didn't feel as though we had been especially prolific.
 
Clearly the experience had an impact on me, because here it is six months since our trip and I am still ruminating over the whole thing.

I am bothered by the disparity between how society views children and parenthood, and how I believe God views them.  I see each of my children as a direct blessing from heaven.  The trust placed in me by my Father in Heaven to care for, teach, and raise His children is a stewardship I do not take lightly.  I don't choose to be a mother because I am repressed by a domineering patriarchal faith into staying in the home and not "doing something better with my life."  I choose to be a mother because my faith reminds me of the divine, ennobling calling that it is.  Molding the rising generation and helping them gain knowledge and life experiences that will assist them in ultimately returning to their heavenly home is my career choice.  It is my chosen profession.  It is my life's calling.

President Thomas S. Monson has said:

Let us earnestly follow [the Savior's] direction: "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for such is the kingdom of God." (see Mark 10:14)

A popular song includes the words, "There are angels among us."  These angels are quite frequently the precious little ones God, our Father, has entrusted to our earthly care. To them we may teach prayer, inspire faith, live truth, and honor God.  Then we shall have heavenly homes and forever families.  For what higher gift could we wish?  For what greater blessing could we pray?  None!"
("Teach the Children," October 1997 Conference Report)

Our hands might be full, yes.
But our hearts?
Even more so.

just a day, just an ordinary day

4:45
Bryson's alarm rouses us from deep sleep.
He is off to the gym and then a day of work.
For me, some tossing and turning and eventually back to sleep.

7:00
The pitter patter of little feet.
Taylor.
I roll over, somewhere between waking and sleep

7:07
Eyes open, but seemingly unable to rise.
The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.
Relishing the twins' sleeping in.

7:12
Mind finally triumphs over matter.
Up and at 'em.
Morning prayers and into the living room.
A glance out the window reveals another cold and snowy day.
I turn our fireplace and the radio on.
Rachmaninov.  It's going to be a good day.
In the kitchen, I discover the bag of chocolate chip cookies the kids and I made yesterday.
Not going to lie, I totally sneaked one.

7:20
The twins are awake.
Good morning, babies, I sing.
Good morning babies!
Halfway into the hallway, Dani pauses.
*Baby?  Baby!*
She runs back into her room, emerging a moment later with her nearly-forgotten baby.
I hear Logan calling out in Bryson's & my room.
*Daddy?  Daddy?*
No, sweetie, Daddy is at work.
So complicated to keep these things straight when you're 21 months old.

7:30
Taylor comes upstairs, toting his binoculars and latest issue of Ranger Rick.
He shows me a picture of shark teeth and another of some baby sloths.
*They're so cute, Mom!*
(The sloths, not the shark teeth.)
Get breakfast going for the three early risers.
I catch up on current events, email, and facebook while I wait for it to finish cooking.
There's a tug on my shirt.
Logan taps the seat next to him.
*Mamamamama.*
I smile and retrieve my breakfast.
Cinnamon-Raisin Oatmeal, cooked in almond milk.
I take my Logan-assigned seat.

8:15
A mad dash to eat, fix Taylor's lunch, and get him out the door.
But Dani has requisitioned one of Taylor's shoes.
There is a moment of panic as we search the house.
*Found it!*
Phew.
In the chaos, we forget to have family prayer.
I'm sure Taylor will chastise me about it when he returns home.

8:26
Out the door and to the bus.
Choose the right today, and be safe!  I love you!
*I love you, too!*
Tugs on my heart strings as I watch him scamper down the drive.

9:00
A moment of calm.
The twins are playing peacefully, and Reilly (aka Sleeping Beauty) has arisen.
Breakfast for her, and a mug of hot cocoa for me.
While the water heats, I tackle the mound of laundry that needs folding.
I sip the cocoa in my favorite arm chair, next to the fireplace.
A moment of serenity.
Followed by a morning of chores.
Laundry, dishes, vacuuming.

11:00
An early lunchtime for us all.
Helping Reilly with some schoolwork, then her turn to get to the bus.
She giggles as I (mock) sternly reprimand her for not giving me a proper hug and kiss in her rush out the door.
She more than makes up for it with her enthusiastic embrace.

12:15
Putting laundry away.
Dani has (re)discovered Taylor's Perry the Platypus T-shirt in the piles.
She promptly commandeers it.  Again.
It hangs down to her knees, but no matter. It is her favorite article of clothing in the entire house.
She has absolutely no idea it belongs to someone else.

1:07
The twins are ready for their nap.
Sippy cups, essential animals, and a Sandra Boynton story are rounded up.
Hugs and kisses and to bed.
A pause.
The exhaustion is starting to hit me.
I am fairly certain that come dinnertime, I won't have an ounce of energy left.
I decide to turn to every pregnant woman's BFF:
The Crock Pot.
Another 30 minutes of defrosting and prepping, and dinner is set.
Chicken Cordon Bleu, slow-cooker style.

2:15
Not much time until the kids return home from school.
That nap I was hoping for doesn't appear to be in the cards.
*sigh*
I decide to get off my feet a little and do something creative.
A short while later, two quilt blocks are completed.
Taylor and Reilly return home.
Snacks and chores and giggles with their little brother and sister.
They have woken up and toddled downstairs to join the party.

4:45
A call from Bryson.
He'll be home earlier than what has been the norm.
He has transferred to an office 45 minutes closer to home.
This is fantastic news.
A happy dance in the kitchen.
I start some rice cooking for dinner.

5:30
Bryson arrives home.
Best part of the day.  Hands down.
Heat up some frozen broccoli, dish up the chicken and rice.
Dinner is served.

7:00
Time for the kids to start their bedtime routine.
The living room is tidied up, to much whining and fanfare.
My patience is wearing thin.
Pregnancy-induced sciatica begins to flare up.
Definitely not helping me on the patience front.
I sit in my favorite chair again and start to write about my day.
Bryson comes over for a kiss.
And maybe one more.

7:45
Family scripture study and prayer.
Then bedtime.
For all of us.  (Sort of.)
I am not ready for sleep, but fall into bed anyway.
(The flesh, it's still weak.)
Bryson follows.
We chat, read, and cuddle until my eyes refuse to stay open.

Tomorrow is Thursday.
My busy day.

However, at this moment, there is nothing
But peace
And love
And bliss.


Tomorrow can wait.
I am reveling in today.

• • •

This post is part of a Wordfull Wednesday link-up hosted by Chocolate on my Cranium!

What does an ordinary day at your house look like?