'Twas the Night Before Christmas. . .with a twist

When I was in Junior High (it could have been middle school), my parents took us kids to Fresno to one of the city museums for a "Mexican Christmas Celebration." There were MANY Christmas displays celebrating all cultures and Christmas traditions, but at 9 pm it was all about honoring the Mexican culture. There was mariachis and the reading of this poem.

Ever since college, I've always searched for it (found it) but never printed it off. Well, not this year. It is printed off and ready to go in my Christmas box after the holiday season. I hope you enjoy!

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the casa,
Not a creature was stirring -- Caramba! Que pasa?
Los ninos were tucked away in their camas,
Some in long underwear, some in pajamas,

While hanging the stockings with mucho cuidado
In hopes that old Santa would feel obligado
To bring all children, both buenos and malos,
A nice batch of dulces and other regalos.

Outside in the yard there arose such a grito
That I jumped to my feet like a frightened cabrito.
I ran to the window and looked out afuera,
And who in the world do you think that it era?

Saint Nick in a sleigh and a big red sombrero
Came dashing along like a crazy bombero.
And pulling his sleigh instead of venados
Were eight little burros approaching volados.

I watched as they came and this quaint little hombre
Was shouting and whistling and calling by nombre:
"Ay Pancho, ay Pepe, ay Cuco, ay Beto,
Ay Chato, ay Chopo, Macuco, y Nieto!"

Then standing erect with his hands on his pecho
He flew to the top of our very own techo.
With his round little belly like a bowl of jalea,
He struggled to squeeze down our old chiminea,

Then huffing and puffing at last in our sala,
With soot smeared all over his red suit de gala,
He filled all the stockings with lovely regalos --
For none of the ninos had been very malos.

Then chuckling aloud, seeming very contento,
He turned like a flash and was gone like the viento.
And I heard him exclaim, and this is verdad,
Merry Christmas to all, and Feliz Navidad!

Christmas Card List

Okay, I'm doing this really, really late, but I need addresses for Christmas cards. I'm posting the request on here because I don't have everyone's e-mail address (and if you do get an email after this post-my apologies). So, if you could send your info to us at ward_family_2005@hotmail.com , that would be great. Thanks y'all.

I feel fine. . .

"You know what fine means, right? Freaked-out. Insecure. Neurotic. Emotional."

Yep. That's how I feel today. I feel FINE.

I'm pretty much awesome. . .

(and bored)


70 words

Typingtest

Wow!

I knew we were going to come out on top, but to score 30+ points in one quarter-that is just pure awesomeness!

If you don't know what I'm talking about, it's the BSU vs. Freno State game, and the smack talk between Jacob (my older bro) and I started as soon as we got to my parents house. He really thought Fresno State would win. I told him there was no way in heck our boys would loose at home, the last game of the season, AND the day we're supposed to get our WAC title trophy. Jacob asked what Fresno State had to loose if they lost (again) and I quickly replied: "More pride." He didn't like my answer so much.


With an interception by Fresno State within the first seven minutes, I was a little nervous and a score of 10-17 at the half made me even MORE nervous. But my men in blue (and orange) did not disappoint. We came back on top-in a big way. The final score was 61-10. And I enjoyed every minute of that defeat, especially since Jacob is a Fresno State fan. I took a little pride in asking him if he missed the interception by Kyle Wilson and then saying "Don't worry. They'll show a replay of that. Slow motion even so you can catch every bit of it." And since we were in Fresno State territory, we got to hear the players' reactions; I think one player summed it up best by saying their defeat was "Like a scary movie. You couldn't stop it." Haha, so funny and yet so sad.


And now we're off to San Diego: Go Orange! Go Big Blue! Fight! Fight! BSU!!!

Turkey, Family and Friends: oh my!

Thanksgiving in Cali was great. We left Idaho at 6:30 am (though the original plan was to leave at 5:30) and there was no one on the road. Usually our stops in Winnemucca and Boomtown (just outside of Reno) are packed with cars getting gas, but this year was not the case. I’m sure it had to do with people wanting to cut back and save. AAA said that they expected travel to be down 40-60% this year and that’s okay by me because it made for a quicker travel time.



Since we were going to be passing through Lincoln on the way down to my parents house, we got to stop there and pick up Jacob’s daughter Mia so we could spend some family time with her. She is so adorable and such a little chatter box. It’s been about a year since the last time Nic and I had seen her, so when I asked her if she wanted to go with us to see Grandma Mary she said “no.” Her mom, Laurel, felt somewhat bad but after 15 minuets of coaxing Mia and promising her she could watch Sleeping Beauty in our car and have a snack she was ready to go.

I just can’t get over how much she looks like Jacob when he was younger. I always tell my mom: “It’s Jacob, but with long hair.” My mom was sure to always call us Uncle Nic and Aunt Elaine so Mia would know who we are, but she would forget-it’s to be expected (she's only three). It was cute though because she would call me her friend. She told my mom “Grandma, you know my friend?” And then one time I was in my parents room and I guess Nic told her “go get Aunt Elaine” because next thing I hear is “Auntie Lane your friend needs you. Come on, I take you to see your friend.” She then grabbed me by the hand and took me to the kitchen. Too cute! I love that little girl.



We also took family photos again by the best photographer (um, that would be me), but we were missing two grand-daughters/nieces. Unfortunately we had to take Mia back to her mom before we could take them (the day we had her and we were supposed to take them it rained) and my older niece Vanessa wasn't able to come down (due to work). Hopefully over the summer or when we go down for Christmas (next year) we will be able to have EVERYONE there.



Thanksgiving dinner was quiet, but nice. After dinner we headed to see Madagascar 2 at 9 pm. It was a funny movie and it made for some fun memories as well. I won't give too many details (I don't want to embarrass any of my family) but they laughs surrond a "free popcorn" and a large bottle of h2o-I love my family. Spending time with them makes me realize how much I truly miss them and wish I live closer.



My mom was happy to have Nic and me down because she said everyone come over when we're there (because we are the most awesomest people ever you know). Jacob stayed the night a few nights, saw my sister Lisa and my niece Brandie (I can't believe she is going to be 14!), no Cranium or rounds of Monopoly this year but there's always next year for Christmas.

I also ran into a few friends of mine from high school, so that was nice. We bumped into my good friend Brianne at Circuit City. It was kind'a funny because we both did a double take like "is that really her?" Her dad thought Nic and I were crazy for wearing shorts but when we told him we lived in Idaho, he understood (it was between 55-60 degrees). And we also got to be there for the blessing of my good friend Kara's baby boy. He is so adorable.



This year was also the first year that Nic and I hit Black Friday Sales. I was a little nervous because I've heard that people can be pretty crazy, but it wasn't that bad-but I also think that had to deal with the fact that Nic and I didn't go out until like 10 am. We didn't camp out like some people-sorry, we're not that hardcore, PLUS it didn't seem like there were too many deals out there.

Going down to Cali was a nice (much needed) break. And I'm so grateful for my family and the love and support they give me and Nic. Now, if I could only get them to move up here.

p.s. Check back later for pictures

In-N-Out

California, Nevada and even Utah are blessed states in my book. Why you may ask, because all of these states are blessed with having In-N-Out Burgers. These are seriously, the best burgers around in my book. And anytime Nic and I are heading to Cali we look forward to enjoying the wonderful goodness. If you haven’t had their burgers before, you can’t understand how I could go on and on but they are for reals so good. They’re simple but tasty.

In high school, I applied for a job there. I wasn’t hired but I learned some interesting things about their company. (At that time) They were only located in California and every corporate meeting started with the pledge of allegiance followed by a word of prayer. How cool is that? Also, under the rim of their cups, the French fry box, and to-go bags all have a scripture on them. They also have a “secret menu,” which includes items that aren’t on their small menu, but you have to know how to order them. My friend in high school worked there and he told me what they were but I can’t remember them now; however, if you go here it shows you those secret items.

So next time you’re in California, Nevada or Utah check ‘em out-you won’t be disappointed.

33.25?!

So, going down to Cali, Nic and I were a little nervous about gas prices. With where they were in September (when we started planning our trip) we were filling up our car for $65 dollars-if not a little more, and we had anticipated spending at least $300 on gas (painful, I know). However, imagine my surprise, joy, shock-whatever you want to call it- when we filled our tank for $33.25. . .$33.25 are you kidding me?! That was freakin’ awesome! Road trip anyone?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Well, we are in sunny/rainy California! 65 degree weather is oh so nice. While I'm here I'll be catching up on posts and working on my photography stuff-go figure, I went on vacation to work. Talk to you guys later and have a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

Five is the magic number!

I was tagged by Hillary. Since I'm on my lunch, here it goes:

A list of fives

10 years ago I...
1. was 17, just returning from Belgium (there for a soccer tournament) entering my senior year of high school
2. planed for what I would do after I graduated high school (get the heck out of Merced and get learned in college)
3. learned the true meaning of friendship
4. accepted the fact that I was different
5. lost one of my good friends (not by death, just a falling out)

Things I'm really into right now. . .
1. How I can come up with enough money to start my family (IVF and adoption can be pretty spendy!)
2. crafts! I'll have to post some things as I go
3. Preparing for a 5k run-come April I'll be ready!
4. painting my house
5. Growing my photography business

Things I would do if I were a millionaire. . .
1. Build our dream home-our home is nice, but I would totally prefer more yard-both front and back
2. Pay off all of our debt-student loans stink!
3. Start a college fund for nieces and nephews
4. Start a non-profit organization of some sort
5. Finish school

Five places I have lived...
1. Merced, Ca
2. Orem, UT (for like a week)
3. Rexburg, ID
4. Boise, ID
5. Meridian, ID (for about two months)

Five places I have worked...
1. McDonalds in WalMart
2. The Galley @ BYU-Idaho
3. Domino's
4. Hollywood Video
5. Carty Law

5 people I tag: (in no particular order)
1. Nicole
2. Rebecca
3. Tori
4. Hannah
5. Leia

I'm a slacker!!!

Well, it seems that Nic and I fell off the face of the earth. Sorry, I was busy getting my web-site set up so blogging was put on the back burner for a while. But I think I'm (mostly) caught up now. So, pop some popcorn. Sit back and enjoy getting caught up with the Ward Clan.

Adios!

When the husband's away. . .

the wife will play! :)

Well, Nic and his dad left this afternoon to go camping. He was pretty excited. I was a little sad. I don't like it when he's gone, the house is just too darn quiet. PLUS, this was the first time that he would be away that we wouldn't be able to say good-night to each other (no service in them mountains where the elk play). But because my husband is the best in town he got me two tickets to the BSU vs. Hawaii game-does he love me or what?!

Who else to take but my best gal-pal Melanie.

(picture from last year)

My boss let me leave early, so Mel met me at my office and we walked over to the stadium. We got there maybe 25 minutes after the gates opened, so we didn't think we would get too terrible of seats (i.e. wwaayyy at the top) but we were just a little off. The seats were good, but the hike to them was just a little much for my comfort. The hike was so bad that as soon as I sat down, though I was dying of hunger, I didn't want to hike back down them and get some food (I know-pure laziness!)-so sad.


The game was really good, though I was little worried that going into the half the score was only 10-7 (us). Anyone that knows BSU football knows this isn't Bronco fashion. You also know that this season we haven't been able to deliver in the second half and going into this game, if we lost it could take us out of the running for a BCS bowl AND make Hawaii a contender for the WAC title (again). But my boys' prevailed and make an awesome come back. Final score: 27-7 with a few interceptions in there for good measure :)


Now we're ranked 12th. Can anyone say BCS Bowl????? Thanks for the tickets babe. I love you!!!

I am so crafty!

Well, not really. But for this project I was pretty proud of myself. This is a tutu. No I did not sew it (are you kidding me-I haven't sewed since the 7th grade), it's a no sew tutu and it is super easy to make. If you google "no sew tutu" you'll get a ton of hits, essentially they are all the same. Here are some pictures of the knots that I tied. I tried to take pictures as I was going, but it's really hard to do when you only have one hand and a big camera.

I made these for Melanie's girls for a photoshoot, in my "studio" shoot (i.e. meaning a spare room in my house that is equipped with backdrops that my AWESOME hubby built for me). We had some difficulties-which means after an hour and a half of shooting, Allie started getting distracted and McKenna was fussy. I did manage to get one shot of Allie in hers though. Too cute!

Just thought I'd brag. Adios!

All things Orange and Blue

September 20th was an AWESOME day! Not only was it Nic's birthday (the old man is nearing 30!), but it was also the day of the BSU game against Oregon. Oh my freakin' a! That was seriously the best game ever. Nic and I went to the coast Mel and TJ. We weren't able to leave as early as we wanted because Nic's flight got in super late (not until 11:45 pm-it was supposed to come in at 5 pm) and we still needed to change the oil in the car. Though we got on the road late, it was still quite enjoyable.

It was nice to get away and enjoy the Oregon coast. I am totally a water baby. I could spend ALL day at the beach, wonderfully content. I love the smell of the ocean air and the cool breeze. Ah, so refreshing, and flying a kite! I love flying a kite but surprisingly the wind was hardly blowing. Because he loves me show much, he tried giving it a go for me.

Friday night we celebrated Nic's birthday. Aunt Loretta made a super yummy dinner complete with a homemade German Chocolate cake (including the frosting-both Melanie and I said "they sale it in a can") and enough candles to set off the smoke alarm. Okay, not really but seriously, Nic's getting old.

After two fantastic days at the beach, it was GAME DAY!!

People warned us about the fans at Oregon, but they were actually really nice. When we entered their indoor field, this sweet old lady saw me in my Bronco gear, grabbed hold of my arm and said: "It's so good to see you. I'm so glad you could make it here. We're happy to have you." Too cute! We had a couple of Oregon fans around us, but it wasn't bad at all (we should have taken a picture with them-darn!).

It was a good game, but near the end it was a little nerve racking. For a moment there it looked like the boys weren't going to be able to do it, but the defense was able to hold them at bay.

Before the game the game Nic and his Uncle Gary made a little wager. If BSU lost, then we would need to send him some Idaho potatoes, but if they one then he would owe us lawn fertilizer. I'm very happy to say, that we returned home with a nice bag fertilizer. Yeah for grass and yeah for BSU winning!!!

Oregon was nice. I was so sad to go, but I guess we'll have to go back sooner. Thanks to Uncle Gary and Aunt Loretta for hosting us in their beautiful home. We hope to see you soon!

Happy Birthday Pappy!

This is my Dad (aka Pappy, aka Padre, aka Daddy, aka Father, aka 1/2 of the parental unit)

and he is the bestest! I can remember him taking me to the elementary school and have me run dribbling drills with the hopscotch. He taught me how to shoot a lay-up. My dad taught me how to NOT throw like a girl and how to swing a bat. He taught me how to drop kick a soccer ball and how to run a 100 yard sprint without flapping my arms around like a chicken (yes there is a correct way to run when you sprint).

My dad taught me that good things come to those who wait: like him joining the church and finding my Mr. Right (while dating all of the Mr. What was I thinking's). He taught me how I should be loved and treated. His endless love for my mom was such an example to me growing up.

He taught me how to worker by him working seven days a week, but always somehow being able to make it to my games (for whatever sport I was playing at that season).

Where were you?

Seven years ago. . .

It was a Tuesday. I was lying in my bed listening to the radio station, debating whether or not I wanted to go to class that day. All of a sudden the song cuts out and the morning show DJ says: "We just got a call from a listener that said an air plane has just crashed into the Word Trade Center. Please stay with us as we try to verify the details." I immediately shot up in bed and started thinking 'Oh my gosh! If there's any truth to it, it will be on CNN.'

I ran upstairs to our living room and turned on the TV. And there was the live footage. I couldn't believe my eyes. Smoke was coming from the North Tower. As I was struggling to make sense of what was going on, I saw the second airplane crash into the South Tower. I couldn't believe what I was seeing; I could feel the tears start to swell up.

My roommates are amazed at me being up and seeing me glued to the TV. I hear them asking me questions, but I ignore them hoping that they will just glance at the TV to see what's happening. I'm frozen, still trying to make sense of what I'm seeing. The next thing I see are the towers crashing and people running in fear. I'm no longer able to hold back the tears. Why is this happening? Who would do this? Why? Why?? Why???

After watching live footage for what seemed like forever, I finally peel myself away from the TV and head to campus. The feeling on the BYU-Idaho campus that day was one that I will never forget. It was so somber. As you walked on campus, it was so eerily quiet. No smiles. No laughter. You could feel there was a sense of loss that day. You knew that no matter our circumstances, we were all changed that day.

The President gave an address that night and I listened. He said that those these horrible acts may have shattered the steels of the those buildings, but "they cannot dent the steel of American resolve." We as a nation united that day. Policemen and Firefighters became super heroes. Young men made the decision to put their life on hold and rise to the special calling of defending the freedom of our nation. My freedom. Your freedom.

That week on campus it was homecoming. One of the last homecomings for the school but instead of celebrating with the big razzle dazzle it was filled with moments of silence and the singing of the song "(I'm proud to be an American) God Bless the USA." As we sang that song, it brought on a sense of pride, one that I had never felt before. The chorus of that song, took on a special meaning that week:

"And I'm proud to be an American,

where at least I know I'm free.

And I won't forget the men who died,

and gave that right to me.

And I gladly stand up! next to you

and defend her still today.

'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land,

God bless the USA!"

I was changed that day. From that day forward, I cry every time our flag is raised and our National Anthem sung. I'm not going to stand here and say whether the war is a good thing or a bad thing, but all I know is that these men are defending my freedom. On this day, I would ask that we don't criticize our President's decision to send our men off to war, but that we stand beside them as they put their lives in danger to defend our very freedom and help rebuild a nation.

Labor (day) of Love!

Some may think that Labor Day is a time for rest, but not in the Ward Home. We spent our Labor Day weekend painting, and well it's about time.

A few months ago, I was checking out Craigslist (for reals, I heart it) and we came across a painting company that was giving away FREE paint. Nic and I were all over that. I was a little worried that we wouldn't find the colors that we wanted (for our baseboards, bathrooms, living room and family room) but we did. So, Saturday we started painting our mud room. Originally, it was going to stay our mud room and the cats' room but we decided to change it to our office. I've come to the realization that while I love having the downstairs completely for entertaining it has made me incredibly lazy! I hate hiking up the stairs to get to the office and then come ALL THE WAY down, so we moved it into the mud room and it totally works. So, here are some pics:

Monday afternoon instead of moving on to the next room we decided to hit the greenbelt for a bike ride. While riding, Nic informed me that he had NEVER been to the Boise Zoo, so we went and it was so much fun. It was nice just to walk around and get excited to see all the animals like some young little kid. The only downer was we kind'a had to decide which exhibits we wanted to see more than others because we only had like an hour until closing time, but none the less we had a jolly ol' time.

(Us taking a break at the zoo)


So, summer is gone. Bummer, I know. All is well. On to the fall season (AKA as football season) and just a few days before we take off to Oregon-heck yes baby!!!

It's the most wonderful time of the year

I'm sure most people associate that phrase with Christmas, but for me it can only mean one thing: Football season!!! And the boys (in blue) are back in town!

The team is a lot younger this year (prime example: there's only one returning player for the offensive line and all newbies on the defensive line-YIKES!!) and watching the game from the comfort of my own home I was a little nervous; I can't imagine what the tension felt like at the stadium. It took the boys a little time to find their groove and for the devoted fans of Boise State to have faith in their new (young and true freshman) QB Kellen Moore (he may be young, but the kid can throw) but eventually everything all worked out. Moore played a pretty good game and I think he won the confidence of the fans-which in BSU football is wwaaayy important (especially when they feel another player deserved the role of QB).

In true Bronco fashion, the final score was 49-7 (though we have totally slaughtered teams far worse then that). The most humorous part of the game was when ISU tried this play (you know, when we won the Fiesta Bowl) but they were denied by our d-line and met with boos that rang throughout the stadium. Did they really think the could pull it off, c'mon guys! You're playing with the big boys'! So, here's to a new football season that will be enjoyed from the comfort of our own home-thankfully, most of the games will be broad casted locally and a couple on ESPN-I may only miss one game. I'm still determined to make it to one home game-thank goodness for craigslist.

P.S. If you go HERE you can catch the video that they show on BroncoVision before kick-off. I don't know about you, but it sends chills down my spine! Heck yes baby!!!

Chicago a no go!!

Nic constantly reminds me that we always go to concerts that I want to go to (Black Eyed Peas-twice, Harry Connick Jr-totally dreamy, and Josh Groban)-even though I did endure Spamalot when it came to the Morrison Center. So, being the wonderful wife that I am I decided to check out the entertainment for this year's Western Idaho Fair and I hit the jack pot!!

Chicago was coming to the fair on August 20th, and while I was surprised that a band as popular as they are was coming to the fair I was still excited. Now Nic couldn't throw guilt trips at me; we were finally going to a concert that he would want to go see. Not to say that I hate Chicago, but I always joke with him by saying: "which city is this?" referring to a song by Boston or Chicago (which actually turns out to be a song by Journey).

So, yesterday Nic and I are excited for our date-night at the fair and to enjoy the wonderful smells (and tastes) of fair food (my personal favorites: corn dogs, cotton candy and elephant ears-YUMMY!!!) Traffic was jammed trying to get to the fair grounds. We finally make it in and find a parking space and begin the walk to the entrance to buy our tickets. As we're walking to the fair entrance by glancing around you could tell that a lot of couples were making this their date night (some a lot older than Nic and I). I can see those wonderful neon lights that say "tickets" as we are approaching and then to my right and left I notice there are two very LLLOOOOONNNGG lines waiting to buy tickets. I thought by the time we got in the show would have started already. We were directed to the proper line (as we did not have any children nor considered persons of the golden age) and began our wait.

While in line we found out that there was a power outage at the ticket windows and they were only accepting cash (good thing we stopped to get some) and only two of the four or five entrances were open. After waiting in line for like 10 minutes, the line started moving really fast. That got me way excited and I thought we would make it in. As we get closer to the ticket window, we were directed to another line (that was twice as long) because the one we were waiting in had run out of tickets. Still hopeful we starting walking towards the other line. The line just kept going and going and going, we looked at each other and said "Let's go home."

So, instead of a night filled with music, food, rides and fun. We had a nice quiet evening at home. Looks like I still owe Nic a concert of his choice. . .maybe I can turn him into a NKOTB fan before November 15th. I guess we will see.

Behold the greatness!!!

Yes, yes my friends are tickets are in!!! Autzen Stadium here we come!!!! September 20th is not coming soon enough.

We bought the tickets thru Stub Hub back in like February but after we made our purchase it told us that we could get the tickets as early as July 15th or as late as September 17th (THREE days before the game) AND if for someone the person does not purchase them then we would be refunded. Um, hello! Why would a person post them for sale if they don't have them or plan on getting them?????? When I saw that I went into a panic. . ."What if they don't get here in time? TJ is going to kill us." "What if the person we bought them decides NOT to buy them?" "What if he mails them too late???"

As soon as July came around, I was asking Nic (what seemed like every day) if he got the tickets yet (we had them delivered to his work because we didn't know where we would be). I've been so caught up in other things that when he told me that he got the tickets, I had to ask him 'what tickets?' But as soon as the words escaped out of mouth, I remembered. Gave a shout for joy and did my happy dance!!!



Will head out September 17th after we all get off work and enjoy two full days of the coast-I can smell the ocean air already!!!



I just want to give a special thanks to my wonderful husband for putting up with three CRAZY Boise State Fans and letting us go to the game to celebrate HIS birthday. You Rock Nicolas Ryan!!!

The type of parents we want to be

I'm an avid reality TV junkie! I love it. I love watching other people's drama unfold before my eyes and being able to say "I can't believe they did that." Nic hates it, he'll get up on leave the room if he see that one of my "stupid shows" is about to come on. My new obsession: The Baby Borrowers. The premises is five teen-age couples who think they're ready to have kids get to experience parenthood at rapid speed. They get to look after infants, toddlers, pre-teens, teen-agers and the elderly. It's been interesting to see these teens be parents. Some have rose to the occasion and been very responsible and you can tell their relationship (as boyfriend/girlfriend) is strong. Others have failed miserably. Last night's episode was one that really caught my attention.

Last night, the teens were parents to teen-agers (some who were just a few years younger than their "parents"). Some of the teen-agers came to raise heck but were quickly put in their place by their new mom and dad. One couple however, was letting their personal relationship get in the way of raising their kid. Daton and Morgan had a rocky past coming into this, but with their teen-ager residing in their home, everything came out and Daton ended up leaving the show. While they were arguing and yelling at eachother their teen-ager thought it best to go outside and escape the yelling. The cameras then focus on him as he is expressing his feelings about their arguing. This is what he said "They're just in there yelling at each other. That's what my parents did before they got divorced. I mean, they got divorced when I was six years-old but I can still remember them yelling at each other. I just didn't want to be around that" That last part broke my heart.

This teen-ager is now 15 years old, and he still remembers the yelling his parents did NINE YEARS AGO, and obviously he is still sensitive to it. How emotionally and traumatic that must have been for him at such a young age. Not knowing why his parents are fighting and wondering if he's the cause of their arguments.

After the show I shared with Nic the recollection of this teen-ager and I started crying (I know, I know, I'm a big baby). I told him that I never want to have yelling or arguing in our house. Things like that take such an emotional toll on children, to me that 15 year old is proof. Yelling I think also instills fear and I don't want our household to be one of fear. I'm not saying we will never discipline our children, but I never want to talk to them in an angry tone. Anytime I sense someone becoming upset and they start yelling, it sends a chill up my spine. I hate it. I also never want to discipline our children by spanking (with hand or a belt), I again feel that this creates a sense of fear. Some may argue that there will be some occasions where spanking is necessary, but I refuse to do that. Spanking to me is motivated by anger and I feel that if you are disciplining your children it shouldn't come from an angry place.

Yes, I know that Nic and I don't have kids right now so it's easier to say this and "just wait until you have kids" but we both feel that there is a better way to discipline children and this is the road that we are taking.

If you need a good laugh. . .

then go here. It's a blog that's written by my friends from home Cami and Tim. Tim is going through medical school right now and occasionally he writes about his experiences. There's the one about his VA rotation, or working at the prison, and the one about beginning his OB-GYN rotation. I find his stories absolutely hilarious; maybe it's because I know him and I can picture him doing all these things and his facial expressions-who knows. Either way, I think they are worth checking out.

Adios my peeps!

Catching Up

Okay, so I haven't posted in a while and I'm sure if you visit our blog on a regular basis that we've seen posts that weren't there before for previous months. Well, I'm back blogging. So keep checking back there will be more updates and hopefully one day I'll be all caught up.

Adios!

Being a responsible adult is sooo over-rated!

Well, as previously mentioned football takes me to a happy place. That said, on February 11th (at 10 am) BSU opened up their season ticket waiting list. All you had to do was long on to their web-site and provide you contact information. So, at 9:59 I logged on to their web-site and at the stroke of 10 am I provided all my information and that I wanted four tickets (me and Nic and Mel and TJ). True, I had high hopes that we would score some awesome tickets but as the months went on, I began to loose hope.

Well fast forward to July 6th. Nic and I come home from church and I have five messages. I figured my parents had left me a couple of messages so I checked; and while there was none from them, there was one message equally as important-a message from the BSU ticket office. They called me to inform me I was next on their list for season tickets and that I just need to call their ticket office. I start freaking out: Oh my gosh! When did they call? I need to call them back. Oh my gosh! Yes my friends, I was that excited. I listen to the message header again and they called July 2 at 2:30; for some reason my phone never gave me my message-I was so upset! I told Nic the exciting news and that I would call Monday during my lunch.

Monday afternoon I call and they tell me tickets are still available and their location. They seemed reasonably priced, so I call Nic and is he is all for us getting tickets we just need to wait a week. When I get off the phone him I start doing my little happy dance and I start singing the BSU fight song and I start imagining myself at the games and I can hear the band playing. . .I start getting wwaaayy excited like I do when I'm at the football games.

Well, fast-forward to Sunday (7/13). We met with our Bishop to discuss concerns (mostly money) about adoption. I told him that were saving where we can but I just don't think we'll have the money we need. He told me that people who are saving can always save a little more.

Monday comes and as I'm getting ready to make that glorious purchase, I just can't bring myself to do it. The words of our Bishop are ringing in my head and I start thinking: are these tickets a want or a need. One could argue that if you're trying to make sure you have a happy wife then the season tickets would definitely be a need, but I knew deep down inside no matter how I tried to spin it these season tickets were a want. And when we're trying to save for something greater that this is something we can't afford right now.

I called Nic and told him that I wouldn't be purchasing the tickets and I explained to him why. He told me that he thought it was a good decision but if I still wanted to buy them, he would let me. I told him that we simply couldn't and the words of the Bishop just kept playing in my head over and over. So, we didn't buy them.

I know it was a wise decision and in the end we will have the greatest reward (a child or two), but I know when I'm watching the games from my couch yelling at the TV that I'll think: Being responsible is completely over-rated!

They came. . .they saw. . .they conquered!

After six years of living in the great state of Idaho, my parents FINALLY made a trip up to Boise that lasted more than one day. My years of begging them to pay a visit finally paid off. . .well, that and the fact that I had a new house to accomadate them didn't hurt either :)

They got here early Wednesday evening. I was so happy to see my momma and pappy! I would have jumped on them as soon as they got out of the car, but I figured after a 10 hour drive (Nic and I can make it in 8 1/2-9 hours) they wouldn't have the strength to hold me. They came in and I gave them the ground tour. They really like our new home and the space that there is. I did up the guest bathroom for them (still no paint, but it looked really cute) and the guest bedroom. They were starving so I made-some yummy stir-fry.

Momma and Pappy also came bareing gifts: FRUIT!! Nic always teases me about fruit because I always tell him how much cheaper it is in Cali or fresher or whatever else. So, the fact that my parents brought some for me made we way happy! It was fun just sitting 'round the kitchen table chatting and joking. After Nic got home and had a bite to eat we went for an evening stroll to the club house to show my parents where our HOA fees go. As we were walking through the neighborhood they were really impressed with how family friendly the neighborhood was and the sizes of the home. I told them that they could sell their home in Cali and pay cash for a home up here. . .it looked like the were pondering the idea, so we will see what happens.

Thursday morning I made them breakfast and we just hung around town. Nic was insistent about taking them Pita Pit and checked out the down town sites-which included the ever so wonderful Boise Co-Op. I love the Co-Op but Nic and I hardly ever go. While we were there my mom reminded me how important it is to be healthier and how good this and that oil are for you. I like to think I'm a believer of natural healing, but my mom has truly surpassed me. After the Co-Op we headed out to Nic's parents house to do some swimming. The original plan was to head out there so I could do some browsing/shopping at Graples Home Decor which is a store that is only open on Thursdays (when I'm working), but in the end I decided my parents wouldn't have very much fun with that so we headed to the pool. My parents loved being able to cool off in the pool. It's a funny thing about swimming, when you're younger it's all about jumping and diving and playing this or that game but as you get older it's about just relaxing and finding something to float on. So, I guess I should say that we did some floating and not a whole lot of swimming.

After cooling off in the pool we head back into town to get cleaned up and head over to Cottonwood Grille for dinner. Nic and I had only been there once before, and it was soooo yummy! The trout I had (last time) literally melted off of my fork. It was so good. Nic and I decided should my parents ever decide to visit us, we would take them there. We sat out on the porch, next to the green belt and enjoyed the nice summer breeze. Our waiter was a little slow for my taste (after 1 1/2 working in a resturant you really learn what makes a good server and what does not), but it gave us time to sit and enjoy each other's company. It was nice to just sit and chat with my parents and joke around with them. It makes me miss and appreciate them so much more. Distance does truly make the heart grow fonder. Knowing that the next day (4th of July) was going to be a super long day for us, we decided we should head home and get some rest. Well, we headed home but didn't get to bed until probably around 12 am! We go back to our house and just started talking again. For the first time, my parents learned about the struggle I had (in high school and in college) about my racial vs my cultural identity (which is a completely different post for another day); and I learned some secrets that my mom had been holding out on me about some of the struggles I had with girls in my ward growing up (yeah, my mom called parents!!!!). . . I joked with her that her calling has explains why one girl doesn't even talk to me anymore. Oh, high school memories. . .honestly, I would never go back to high school. Lesssons learned, time to move on.

Friday morning while mom slept in Nic, Dad and I headed over to our ward building for the ward 4th of July breakfast. It wasn't like the good ol' picinic and softball game that we have back in my ward but nonetheless it was still fun. It gave my dad a chance to meet some of the people in our ward. We only stayed for about an hour and then we came home to get lunch and snacks packed for our trip up to Cascade and McCall. My dad is a big fan of Nic's salsa so the brought all the necessary ingredients to make it. Ideally, we should have made it the night before so we would just have to pack everything and go but we were having so much fun talking that we didn't. So, an hour and half (or more) later we hit the road.

Prior to my parents coming up here, my mom had said that she wanted to go hiking (but nothing too strenuous) so I bought a book that provided a list of ALL the attractions in the state of Idaho. Mom choose a hike that was only a mile (round trip) and would lead us to some hot springs, the trail was Last Chance Hot Spring. The thing that was nice about the book as that it gave directions to the trail head (i.e. travel two miles past x and look for x). Well, after driving for a couple extra miles past where the trailhead was supposed to be, we saw a sign that pointed to Last Chance Hot Spring campsite and I told Nic to head that way so we could ask the camp host where we need to go. Well, two more miles down an unpaved road we made it to the camp-site. Nic told the camp host that we were looking for the trailhead but we were having a hard time finding it, he told Nic it was because it wasn't there. Nic of course asked him what happened and the host told him that the owner of the hot springs was getting sued for a lot of money so to spite everyone he took a stick of dynamite and blew up the trail! One he told my mom this brought some great laughs about crazy mountain men. My parents asked how he could possibly be sued for something regarding his land/hot springs and I told them it's fairly easy: Someone probably choose to come and enjoy the wonderful hot springs and in doing so either 1)tripped somewhere down the path or 2) burned themselves in the hot springs and wanted someone to blame. Grant it, when you go hiking you are voluntarily exposing yourself to the natural elements but people want someone to blame and feel they should be compensated for their foolishness/stupidity. Somehow they found an attorney willing to represent them and they discovered the owner of the land and there you go and thus a lawsuit was born (working in PI I have recieved such calls-I had one lady call that wanted to sue a pet store because her own cat attacked her-ridiculous!).

Not ones for being defeated we went to the book again determined to go on a hike. We couldn't find one that was close to where we were so we turned around and headed to Brundage Mountain and decided to hike Goose Creek. It wasn't in our book but since it was already 4:30 we decided that we should probably get started on a hike. Goose Creek was was a 2 1/2 mile hike that on the return trip was all uphill! I was a little nervous because of my knee-it's never been the same since my surgery but I decided I could tough it out. I figured if my mom could do it, so could I. Though when I did express my concerns about the return trip she told me I should have worn my knee brace and I should also keep it around for things like this, but I really hate that thing. One it takes forever and a day to put it on (there are like eight straps that you need to make sure are secrue) and two it gives me bad tan lines-vain, I know!

The hike down to the falls was beautiful. I didn't enjoy being bitten my mosquitoes (even though I did spray myself) but it was so nice to be in nature and enjoy the wonderful God created elements. Once we got to the falls, we realized it was just the upper falls and that we still needed to hike 1/4 mile to the lower falls. Mom and I decided that we weren't going to be up for it so we decided to head back to the car while Dad and Nic continued on to check it out. It was so nice hiking back just my mom and I. It again gave us time to talk and share feelings about Nic and I's decision to start our family, the gospel and the spiritual strength of the men in our lives and to enjoy the wonderful beauties of this earth together. Nic and dad didn't catch up with us until we were probably 1/2 way back to the car. Once they caught up, Nic explained to us that it was a good thing we didn't go because it was a steep rocky path to get to the falls and there's no way that we have been able to do it. Nic showed me the pictures he took and I agreed that we would not have enjoyed that part of the hike. Dad told me that as he saw Nic get closer and closer to the falls he began thinking about what he would do should Nic have fallen into the falls, I told my dad "Camera first then Nic." We laughed but mom didn't appreciate the joke, nor our sense of humor.

We finished the trail and headed to Cascade. Since we were in McCall Nic suggested staying there for the fireworks (because he heard they were better) but I told him I didn't want to, plus it seemed pretty hard to find a place to sit so contined to Cascade. Lakeside was a little disappointing this year-there wasn't as many vendors and their wasn't any entertainment. Only a DJ that didn't start playing music until about an hour and half before the firework show started. We killed our time playing Uno. Mom had never played before so we decided to teach her how. We explained the rules to her and what each card meant, but she still accused us of cheating (the only one that ever cheats is Nicolas) even when she beat me at a game. All is well, it was fun but I don't think we will be playing Uno when we head down to Cali for Thanksgiving. After the awesome fireworks show we had to deal with the traffic getting out of the parkit was as messy this year, but it didn't take nearly as long as it has in the past and since we were going to be driving windy roads during the late evening, Mom stayed up to make sure Nic would be okay (I'm usually the one up making sure he's okay) which meant I got to sleep on the way home-YEAH!! When we got back (well after midnight-if not 1 am) I informed everyone that I was going to be sleeping in tomorrow and not to wake me up-no matter what AND that I was leaving my phone downstairs because I didn't want any phone calls waking me up. Mom informed me that instead of going panning for gold or gem digging (which I was determined to find a place for them to do that) that we could just stick around town on Saturday.

Saturday morning I was awoken by Nic coming in to the bedroom and asking if I was okay. I rolled over and looked at him (half-way asleep now) and said "Yes, I'm sleeping. What do you want?" (It should be noted that if I say I'm sleeping in and I don't want to be woken up I really do mean that).

"I forgot my keys to the house so I couldn't get back in. I was ringing and ringing the doorbell and no one answered. I tried calling your cellphone and the house phone and there was no answer. I thought something had happened to you."

"How did you get in then?"

"I called your mom on her cellphone and your dad came and opened up the door."

"Sorry, I didn't have my phone nor did I hear the doorbell." Then I rolled over and went back to sleep.

When breakfast was done mom told me that she heard the doorbell but she figured I wasn't answering it because I had said I didn't want to get woken up for anything; then the person starting rining and ringing the doorbell and she thought "Man, they must really want someone to answer the door." Next thing she knows Nic calls and she tells him that someone is ringing our doorbell "Yeah, it's me." Good times!

Saturday afternoon we went to the Idaho Penitentiary. Mom heard it was like one the top 20 attractions in Idaho (or something like that) so they wanted to check it out. It's weird to think that this jail was used until the early 1970's it so run down. Dad thought it would be funny to get a couple of pictures of him behind bars and pretending to escape from jail. It was interesting to see the different wings of the penitentiary.

We went to the solidary confinement which they called Siberia and read the description of it. It was crazy. Prisioners would be in there for seven months to a year and they were not allowed to take showers and hardly saw the light of day. The only light they had was a small vent opening in the ceiling of their cell. The part that grossed me out was not being able to take showers. The day we were there it was in the low 90's with a breeze, but I was sweating a little bit. I couldn't imagine being stuck in the cell with no circulation; even worse I couldn't imagine the possible stench that would come from those six or eight cells with no air conditioning and your prisioners not having taken a shower for a coulpe of days-gross! Mom and dad enjoyed themselves, we were hoping to check out the Idaho Botanical Gardens as well but by the time we got done at the penitentiary, they were already closed-darn! Looks like mom and dad are just going to have to come back for another visit :)

It was soooo incredibly nice having my parents here. I really hope they change their minds and decide to retire here; that way they'll be closer to grand-babies when they come!! I hope my parents make it a yearly thing to come up here to Idaho. Love you momma and pappy!!!!

My heart is full

My heart is so full of thanks right now. I'm thankful for my husband. I'm thankful for my family. I'm thankful for the blessings that the Lord has given me and my husband and the two the things that I am most grateful right now are: our new ward and the gospel.

I don't know how to describe the feelings that I have for our new ward. . .it just feels like home. At first I thought it was just because we had bought our home, so it felt more permanent but I know that's not the case. I just have a feeling of sincere love coming from the members of this ward and from the sisters' that I have had the wonderful opportunity of getting to know. I know that Nic and I were meant to be in this ward right now. I know that there is purpose in the friendships that we are developing and I know that our Bishop, though he is short in stature he is mighty in spirit and he is the one who we needed to help us through our journey of becoming parents.

I'm also so very grateful for the gospel and the guidance it is in my life. I am the Valiant 11 year-old teacher, and I love the opportunity it has provided me of (on a more consistent basis) reading my scriptures. I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the best at reading my scriptures daily, but with my new calling it's allowing me to become better. When I received my calling I was a little nervous because at this age, these kids are looking for that spiritual example and I wasn't sure that I would be able to provide that for them. But I have learned two things: 1) that I can be that example and 2) they will also be an example to me. Seeing how spiritually hungry they are has forced me to remember that spiritual hunger that I once had and has encouraged me to be hungry again. I think sometimes as we become older, we become comfortable where we are, but how are we growing? What are we gaining? True, we may have a testimony but is it the same one we had five or ten years ago? Do we really feel the strength and sustaining force that the gospel can provide us with? We need to.

I know that the Lord loves me. I know that through my struggles of wanting to be a mother, He never left my side; He just sat patiently waiting for me to turn to Him for strength. I know that He gave me this trial because He knew I could handle it. I know that amazing things can and will happen when we turn our faith over to the Lord. I know this, and I will never forget it.

Can you feel the Burn???

The Boise Burn that is. Last week, a man in our ward was handing out FREE tickets to the Boise Burn which is an arena football team here in town. Knowing that I'm an avid sports fan and had previously mentioned wanting to attend a game, my dear hubby grabbed some tickets-five to be exact (he loves me so much). Well, we had completely forgot about the tickets until the night before when the news was talking about their upcoming game. Nic and I looked at each other and at the same time said "Oh yeah, the game's tomorrow. Who are we going to take?" We decided to invite the wonderful Waters Family.

I love, love, LOVE football games. I love getting pumped by the warm-up music and feeding off the adrenalin of the players. Football games take me to a happy place. Arena football is so different than regular football, and it is my opinion that you need to be in crazy good shape to do it. Since the field is smaller you are sprinting all the time and if you're playing both offensive and defensive roles you have to be on top of your cardio, or I'm sure you would be passing out. In a way I guess arena football is like soccer (another sport that takes me to my happy place)-except in soccer we don't use padding. . .we know how to take a hit! :) So, yesterday we met at the Quest Arena ready to have a jolly good time.

Since the tickets were handed out at church, the game pretty much turned into a ward activity. I had to joke with Nic that I need to be on my best behavior or some of the brethren and sisters might begin to question me teaching their children in Primary. Why you may ask? Well, when it come to sports (mostly football) it brings out a whole different side of Elaine. I have been known to yell out a few things like "Why don't you take a hit like a man," and "Stop being a pansy QB" and "Learn how to throw QB". . . the list could go on and on. When you're in an outdoor stadium it's easy to yell and not be heard, but such is not the case when it comes to arena football. I yelled "Why don't you learn how to hit 34" and I got a couple of stares from people around us. After that I kept it a little more in check.

The game is definitely quick and because it's such a smaller field the scoring is crazy high (but I guess in comparison to most final scores of BSU football games it's not that high). The final score:

It was a fun game and I'm still the Valliant 11 teacher, so I guess I didn't scare the people in my ward to terribly bad. :)

Garage Sale Fun?????

(What the cats did while we were out in the sun)

(Nic working hard)

The one thing I will say is that there are some serious cheapo's out there! I grew up going garage selling with my dad, so I know the type of prices that would fly. I marked them up a little higher knowing in negotiations I would get exactly what I wanted for them, but still people are crazy.

Case in point #1: Over our three years of marriage, Nic and I have collected plenty of gift bags. We never reuse them so I figured we would just sale them. In total there were 2o bags and they weren't just the plain ones, some were the REALLY nice ones (you know the ones that cost like $3-$4). Anyways, we were selling all of these for $2! To me, that's a screaming deal. Some lady wanted to pay $0.50! What the heck?! Nic was negotiating with her (she only spoke Spanish). Nic finally got her to go up to a dollar, but I was so irritated. I felt like telling her to go to the store and buy all these bags for $20 and then let me know if $2 is a screaming deal. . .I like to think it was the heat putting those thoughts in my head, but if I'm honest with myself I know it wasn't.

Case in point #2: Our cousins donated bags upon bags of clothes to us. As we were sorting them, some of them looked like they were hardly worn. Most of them were girl sizes and they were wwaaayyy cute! Since they were in such good condition (and totally adorable), we were asking $2 per item or 3 for $5. I asked my friends (who have kids) if these were reasonably priced (and if they would pay this amount for them) and they said yes. Well, apparently not this one lady she wanted to pay $0.25 for them. . . $0.25. . .I was floored!! I mean, c'mon. At least $0.75 I would have not had too terrible of a problem with. It was near the end of the day so I was just like "whatever."

Over all, we did pretty good. We made $240, which is a good start to our baby fund. We have tons of stuff left over, so it's time to start posting on craigslist. That's the nice thing with craigslist, 90% of the time you get exactly what you ask for. Hopefully we will have better results.

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day Pappy!! Thank you for the years of waking up early and taking me to my soccer games or tournaments, supporting me thru all my life and encouraging me to be my very best. I'm especially grateful for your decision to join the church and becoming a worthy priesthood holder. Thank you for showing me the blessings that come with being an eternal family. I love you!!

p.s. Yes mom-you'll get this picture back :)

"You're boring!"

We hadn't been in our new ward but over a month and we already have callings. Nic is 1st Counselor in the Sunday School Presidency (his boss told him that it's a step away from Elders Quorum Presidency-the test you to make sure you come every week) and I am the 11 year Primary teacher (me and another sister switch every week). Right now, they have me teaching the 6/7 year olds until they find a permanent teacher, but since I was sick this past Sunday so Nic stepped in. I had the lesson all out-lined and told him he shouldn't have a problem. I guess I was wrong.

On the way home from church Nic called me and said "Yeah, I'm never teaching primary again."

"Why?

"The kids told me I was boring-on more than one occasion. 'You're boring!' 'I thought you said I could teach the lesson.' 'Can we go outside?' 'Can we play a game? 'I'm bored.' 'When is class over, you're boring.'

To help Nic's injured ego feel better, I tried not to laugh but I couldn't help it. He even told me: 'Go ahead, laugh. You know you want to.'

Poor Nic, to all of you who know my dear hubby he's anything BUT boring. Maybe the younger kids just aren't his type of crowd. Maybe it wasn't him at all, but the lesson that I had planned! Who knows, but I guess I'll find out on Sunday. I guess it's a good thing I only have to teach them for another week. Kids. . .the can be the toughest critics!

My Apologies

I've been so busy with Our Journey to Parenthood that I've neglected our "regular" blog. I'm so sorry. I'll be updating with pictures from Warm Lake (over Memorial weekend-I know FOREVER ago) and funny and cute stories-teaching primary is all I have to say. Adios my peeps!

EXCITING NEWS!!!

Almost there. . .CLICK HERE for the exciting news!!

Mi hermano es numbero uno!

TRANSLATION: My brother (Ricky) is number one! Well, tie for first with my older brother Jacob.

Not only is he the best drummer ever (for reals!) he is incredibly AWESOME!! He just celebrated his 25th birthday last Tuesday (the 27th). . . I feel so old! I know we're only two years apart, but I just remember when we were younger and I could get away with teasing him (me and Jacob once convinced him a leprechaun was in the hall closet and locked him in there) and defending him. Then one day-POOF! He had 7 inches on me and didn't need me coming to his rescue any more.

I've always been appreciative of the listening ear he always provided and the example that he was to me. Feliz Cumpleanos mi hermano! I hope this year brings you new and wonderful experiences.

I've been hit!

Okay, not really hit but tagged! Hope you enjoy.

4 Jobs I've had
1. McDonald's Cashier/cook
2. Research Analyst (fancy title for telemarketer-but we didn't sell anything; customer service surveys).
3. Retail Manager (I liked my job, but retail hours suck!)
4. Paralegal

4 Movies I've watched more than once:
1. Breakin' (only a few friends have been introduced to this wonderful 80's movie)
2. Miss Congeniality
3. Juno (for reals like my new fave!)
4. All the Ocean Movies (11, 12 and 13)

4 Places I have lived:Only 4?
1. Raised in Merced, CA
2. Rexburg, ID
3. Boise
4. Utah (for like a week)

4 Places I have been:
1. Eastern Caribbean
2. West Coast
3. Belgium
4. DC

4 Favorite Foods
1. SCONES-I don't make them often enough
2. tacos
3. steak
4. homemade tortillas.

4 Places I would like to visit:
1. back to Belgium
2. New York
3. back to the eastern Caribbean
4. Hawaii

4 Things I am looking forward to this year:
1. My parents (HOPEFULLY) coming to visit us in Idaho
2. The Holidays
3. painting our new house
4. :)

4 Friends I'm tagging:
1. Hillary
2. Sheena
3. Rebecca
4. Tori

Hello Summer!

(after our biking adventure)

This past Saturday was such a wonderfully warm day here in the City of Trees that Nic and I decided to go for a bike ride. We waited until after 5 o'clock so it was a little cooler and we wouldn't have to worry about getting burned- well, so we wouldn't have to worry about Nic getting burned-I just tan :)

Nic and I drove down to Julia Davis Park , unloaded our bikes and hopped on the green belt to head down to see The Howards in Garden City. Friday evening we had heard that there was going to be flooding along the green belt, so Nic and I were pleasantly surprised that we didn't run into any problems. . .that is until we go to Garden City.

As we neared Mel and TJ's house we encountered a pretty deep flooded area. There was a cyclist walking his bike (up stream) thru the water and he informed us there were two more flood spots up ahead but this was the worse one. I looked at Nic and told him that there was no way in heck that I was going to try and ride through that, but I guess he didn't hear me because next thing I know Nic heads on through. . .the water came passed his knees while he was sitting on his bike (yeah, NO WAY I was going to even make an attempt). He made it across, realized I wasn't behind him and came back. We decided to head back to the road, go up a block and then hop back on the green belt.

Some bikers ahead of us and just come thru the second flooded area and said since we were heading down-stream it wouldn't be too hard of a ride and that it wasn't that deep. So, I decided to tough it out and oh. . .my. . .gosh!! The water came up to just about mid-calf and it was FREEZING!!!! As we're going freezing our toes off, I look over at Nic and tell him "You know, it's going to be pretty crappy if Mel and TJ aren't even there. . .maybe we should have called first." Nic just smiled (I'll have to admit that's the one thing I love about my husband always able to find the ADVENTURE in everything). Soon after we cleared the second area, we came across the third. Thankfully, it wasn't that deep but it was still pretty darn cold. I just held my breath and peddled as fast as I could. Nic laughed. Luckily Mel and TJ were home too!

I love bike riding during the summer but I think I'm going to hold off until all the floods have run their course!

p.s. I'm sure y'all want proof as to how deep everything was but Nic and I forgot to take pictures of that. We figured we could reenact everything, but then they wouldn't be as authentic. :)

My Mother

I just wanted to take this opportunity to tell mom how much I love and appreciate her. I'm so very grateful for the support she has given me over the years. I know sometimes we didn't always see eye to eye but I know she never stopped loving me. She has taught me to be strong and spiritual woman. It may have taken us a few years, but I'm glad that I can also call my mother my friend. I love you Mama! Happy Mother's Day.

Kids are just too darn cute!

Background story: Whenever Nic does something (that I deem) unnecessary or inappropriate I call him “Nicolas” or even sometimes “Nicolas Ryan.” Occasionally, something will happen at a friends’ house (more often than not) that I have to address my dear hubby as “Nicolas.”

When Nic and I were cleaning out the old house, Melanie sent me a text message. Here’s our whole conversation:

Melanie: Apparently Allison was yelling at your husband today because he is the only Nicolas she knows. She kept pointing her finger and yelling No Nicolas!

Me: LOL! What was he doing? Or, what was she doing that made her say that?

Mel: I don’t know. She was just in the kitchen yelling at him.

Me: Maybe she’s heard me tell Nic “no” too many times. . .that’s the other thing that’s funny she said “Nicolas” and not Nic. I only say “Nicolas” when he’s in trouble. . .smart girl! She’s caught on quick. :)

Mel: Yeah, I thought that was funny too. That’s how I knew she was yelling at him. Because she called him Nicolas.

Later that night we went over to Melanie's house and I asked Allison if Nic was being naughty and she kind'a got shy and looked at me and then at Nic and she ever so quietly said Yeah. I asked her what he did, but she didn't answer.

As cute as this story is, I just want to clear one thing up. I have never "yelled" at Nic. I've definitely been working on my "mommy voice" but I've never yelled. I just usually tell him "no" a lot-which is problem a bad thing too. Nic and I have never gotten into an argument or a fight. Yes, we disagree sometimes but we are always able to resolve it. With two years of dating before we got married, I think we did all that stuff when we were dating, it's all out of our system. Though we've been married three years we have been "together" (on and off) since 2002. . .six years-crazy!

Anyways, to get back to my original post: kids are just so stinkin' cute! The say and do the funniest things. Though Nic and I don't have any kids, I'm glad Mel and TJ have asked us to be involved in Allison's life. It's definitely helped fill (in a small way) the void we have in our lives right now.