Burkinshaw

Projects, Poufs, and Parties

2012-01-06T19:45:00.000-08:00

I should totally do a blog challenge during a month that we're not traveling for almost half of it. My bad! So December just seemed to fly by! It seems like it goes by faster now that we wear flip-flops and shorts and have picnics instead of being inside...avoiding the snow (I don't like snow, it's cold!). We've kept ourselves pretty busy trying to get things done before Paul starts class next week. I sure hope 2 1/2 years goes by super fast! We had a 2 day trip to Mesa. We worked on painting more rooms. We sewed like there was no tomorrow! We went to Utah to visit family. Here are pictures (they kinda got out of order for a minute)

The poufs. I spent probably three days doing these. It was the only real thing we got them for Christmas. I am not a professional! Invisible zippers are kinda hard (and not-so invisible). I'm working on it!

This is Aspen. She is my sister's oldest daughter. She wanted to carry Elin everywhere! Poor Aspen and Elin's serious separation anxiety!

It's kinda blurry! Sorry. This is the only shot we (Aislee) got of Grandpa Tim with Elin. My Poppo is on the couch.

Back to the poufs. They're pretty big. If I knew how to link stuff, I would. I found this idea on pinterest, but I didn't want to spend money buying the pattern and stuff. So, I made Paul help me draw a pattern up. He's pretty awesome that way. I need to fill them a lot more, but Wal Mart ran out of fluff and we live nowhere near a craft store!

Elin hasn't really used hers. She gets stuck and has a hard time crawling off.


Watching a movie. Notice, they're no longer standing right in front of the tv!

Ewan

Olivia

Aislee

We kinda ripped a little part of Olivia's when we were stuffing. I'm hand stitching.

Just thought this one was cute. He's my buddy!

We borrowed some coats so we could enjoy the Utah snow. Greatest Snow On Earth!

Aislee really didn't want me taking pictures.

Olivia with Uncle Coy

Grandma's AMAZING playroom!

More snow fun with Uncles.

Christmas morning. Can you believe that I had to wake the Uncles up?!?

Waiting for Grandma and Grandpa!

Ewan got a remote control car from Grandma. She sure does love him!

With Grandma Maureen.

Uncle Coy, Uncle Kett and the cousins!

Da Boyz

With Daddy

Mean Girls

2011-12-05T12:58:00.001-08:00

I remember my Mom telling me when I was expecting the twins about some advice my Grandma Crimin gave her. She said, "You'll always love your children. But, you want to raise children that other people love." I thought that this was very good advice. Yes, I was will always love my kids no matter what they do. I want to have kids that others love because of the way my children treat them. I've been thinking about this a lot lately as my kids are starting to get out of the safety of my bubble. Am I raising children that are kind, respectful, thoughtful, helpful, and pleasant? What can I do to teach them the importance of these things? I've had a hard time with Ewan and his biting stage and sometimes general orneriness. Sometimes he says "No" a lot. He also says, "Go away" and "no way". I have talked to Paul many times through teary eyes about my concerns with him and "bullying". I know, I know...He's two. I just would never want my kid to be the one to hurt someone else, be it physically or emotionally. We have talks about not hitting, biting, kicking, or screaming. My kids know, "we aren't mean. We give hugs and...kisses" (they fill in the last part).
As I have watched some of the television shows and teen movies about popular kids, I always wonder why the media portrays "popular" kids as mean. Aren't "popular" kids supposed to be well-liked? Isn't that what makes you popular? How are these mean girls so very popular? They're malicious and unkind.Is it because they have money? wear expensive clothing? drive nice cars? How is that popularity? I'm amazed that we as a society would designate such horribly behavior as acceptable because these kids are "popular". I just don't get it. And, where are their parents? Aren't their parents teaching them about being kind? Does it really make them feel good to have people afraid of them? Does it make them feel good when someone is mean to them? Would they want others to feel hurt, heartache and sorrow on their account? I remember some girls from middle school that were "bullies". I don't remember them being in the "popular" group. They were a grade older than me, and frankly I don't remember them at all after my freshman year because they ended up going to the Adult High for failing out of most of their classes. Popular? I think not. They were just mean.
So, how would one raise "popular"-nice kids? ones who are respected and loved rather than resented and feared?

Uncle Paul

2011-12-04T20:02:00.001-08:00

We went to Kansas/Oklahoma in August for Paul's family reunion. He is affectionately known as "Uncle Paul". It's not really funny to hear Grace or Spencer call him Uncle Paul. But it is funny to hear his own children refer to him as Uncle Paul the following weeks, if not months after our trip.Seriously, Olivia called him Uncle Paul for the longest time. She doesn't call him that very often anymore, but sometimes when he's teasing her I'll hear her little voice, "Uncle Paul..." It reminds me of when my nephew would call his dad "Bill"--his name is Adam. Anderson was about 2 and a half and everything was, "Bill's home", "Bill's truck", "Bill's pizza". The funny part was that Adam, a super nice, easy-going guy just went right along with it. He didn't seem to mind that his son call him Bill. Our kids sometimes call Paul by his first name..and I have to admit that it's pretty funny sometimes to hear Ewan calling for Paul while he's in the bathroom! Anyway, it got to the point where my sister was calling Adam "Bill". I don't think any of their other kids called him Bill...Olivia seems to be that child in our family. Maybe it's an oldest child thing, I'm not sure. She's always coming up with pretend games and calling everyone something new. Ewan has been calling the twins "Yaya" for a while. He's starting to say Aislee better. And he calls Elin, "Eerwin". Olivia likes being "yaya" some days. Other days she wants to be "Ia". Some days she tells people she's "Aislee". Those are the days when she should probably be in timeout a little more the normal. Aislee is pretty good at just going along with whatever Olivia is pretending. Her latest thing is saying, "I'm little" when asked to do something by herself like take her plate to the sink, pick up her toys, or go to the bathroom. But, when she wants to go outside, or jump of the little table, or have a cookie she's, "...big and strong like Daddy." Kids...! *sigh*

Funny Things

2011-12-02T21:12:00.001-08:00

Paul says that we have the funniest children ever. I believe that he thinks this because he hears the happenings of my days, and doesn't actually experience them. I'm grateful for his outlook on life. It helps to lighten things when I call to tell him he needs to come home from work because I need to sit in the closet by myself for a few minutes. I then proceed to tell him what has happened that day and explain to him why he needs to come home. For example if I don't run in the morning I usually have to wait until Elin is down for her morning nap to get in the shower. We moved the computer into the playroom recently, but before that I would put the three older kids in the playroom and shut the gate so they wouldn't leave the house while I was showering. Now that the computer is in there, I put on a show (Backyardigans is 24 minutes long--enough for shower and dress), leave the bedroom door open so I can hear if there's a serious problem, and take a quick shower. I had been doing this for a few weeks and things seemed to workout pretty well. Our house is pretty much baby proof. Anyway, a few days ago I did my routine. I got out of the shower and peeked around the corner and saw light streaming in from the front door. I grabbed pants and Paul's sweatshirt and ran to the front door. There stood Aislee saying, "They're going outside Mommy. I told them no." Ewan had my running shoes on and was attempting to "run" down the drive way. Olivia was half-way around the block. I chased after her, grabbed her little body, and ran back into the house. Ewan had returned the house. I think he knew he wasn't getting anywhere very fast and Mom was not gonna be very happy with him if he continued on his current path. We discussed strangers, cars, Olivia Pancakes, giant bugs that eat the toes off of little blond girls who leave their house without their mommy or daddy, and owey bodies. So I called Paul a few minutes after my heartrate had returned to normal (it takes a little while...I have issues). He said, "you should blog about it." Yeah, not-so-sure how to deal with this one. I guess, I could stop showering. But, let's be honest. Nobody wants that. So, I asked Paul to buy a deadbolt we could put on the door that's much higher than their reach. That's what we're gonna do about it! We laughed at it after he got home...Olivia will not be attending any dances in high school. She will no longer get to date until she has completed her master's degree in chemistry. I'm pretty sure Santa is bringing her coal...There are a lot more things to come because yes, we have funny kids!

November

2011-12-01T12:11:00.001-08:00

Yea, yea...I know! I'm way behind. Here's our November recap.

Grandma Stacey and Grandpa Jeff came to visit. We got some much needed projects started. We started the paint in the kitchen. Paul and Grandpa built some shelving for the utility room. We will be able to move our food storage from the master closet! We also went to the zoo and to the park. Paul and I went on a date, and went running together every morning. I really like running with him! We were sad to see them go, and can't wait for their next visit!

I had my first post-baby race. It wasn't a half-marathon this time. It's really hard to find races not on a Sunday down here, and to coordinate weekends with people to watch kids, and work. It was just an 8.5 mile course in the pecan groves down here. It was a great day for a race! I'm hoping to get a few more races in before Elin turns one. I have one for December 10th near Scottsdale with my good friend, Jenni.

Ewan turned 2! Yea! He's a big kid now. We didn't get to do as much as we would have liked. It was a busy couple of weeks. We did have some friends over for a movie and cake the night before. The missionaries were at our house for a visit after dinner on Sunday. They got to sing and have cupcakes with us. After finding Ewan driving his pacifier along the rails of his crib and saying "vroom, vroom" one morning, I decided the poor kid needed some cars. He got quite a few matchbox cars. We spent most of Sunday morning playing cars on the tile, and down the slide.

We painted the great room. In anticipation for visitors, we decided to take a weekend and paint the great room. It was a big project with all the prep work and stuff! The kids spent most of the days in the play room with the gate. We moved the computer in there for movies. They were really patient with us. Paul did a really good job with all the edges! It looks great! We'll post pictures when we figure out curtains, pillows, and where to mount the tv we just ordered!

Elin crawls. She's been crawling for about a month. She's pretty fast and gets in to just about everything. She loves being mobile, and able to play more with the kids. I love that she can crawl 'cause I don't have to carry her everywhere!Elin's also starting to cruise. She pulls herself up onto everything and tries to walk along. She's pretty good on the Little Tikes table. She's had a few tumbles, but she doesn't seemed bothered by them. She just rolls over and does it again.

The twins are getting ready for Sunbeams! I can't believe how big they are getting. They left nursery last week to spend singing time in Primary. It was weird not to have them in class with me for a few minutes! Do I really have kids old enough to no longer be in Nursery?!? Where has the time gone?

Paul was called as ward organist. He's still in the Elder's Quorum, but he now gets to practice his musical talents by playing the organ in Sacrament meeting. I have to admit that I've had a few nightmares on Saturdays of him playing the organ, Ailsee escaping to sit with him, Ewan crying for him, Olivia waving frantically at him while climbing over benches while I'm holding Elin...Okay, it hasn't been that bad. And, I know lots of people who do Sunday as a single parent while their spouse is doing their calling. But, not many have two three year olds, a two year, and an infant. I probably rely on Paul too much, but he's so great! He still comes into the Nursery to help me when he's not needed in Elder's Quorum and takes Elin so she doesn't get "loved" too much by all the other kids.

We had John and Emily (Paul's brother and sister-in-law) come from Lake Jackson, Texas for Thanksgiving. It was so much fun to have visitors! We love spending time with John and Emily. We went to the zoo, to the park, hiking, and trampoline jumping. Emily and I got to go to Wal-Mart together! We made Thanksgiving dinner together. It was great! We also had Paul's cousin, Patrick and his family for Thanksgiving. It was sad to see everyone go. We can't wait to have more visitors!

Photo of Grandma Stacey taken by Aislee...She steals the camera every chance she can get.

Elin is a good eater.

At least he's wheeling around the shopping cart and not the stroller, right?

Pre-race water.

Olivia

Happy Birthday Ewan NcGrewen!

The missionaries liked the cupcakes. They were the only ones who didn't just lick the frosting off...

That was his second helping of frosting.

There are too many kids in the tub. Too many elbows to scrub! I just washed a behind I don't think was mine. There are too many kids in the tub!

She's a happy kid.

This one was taken by Ewan.Olivia and Aislee.

She's so big!

Don't feed the animals. Okay, maybe if you feed them, they won't fuss at you!

Now there are WAY too many kids in that tub!

Elin and Caleb hanging out in the stroller. They were happy for moments.

We're so excited for our new Elephant Exhibit coming soon!

Paul and Ewan. John and Sam.

The strollers changed occupants and drivers many times.

Leaving the zoo. Ewan made it home with us.

Hiking Madera Canyon.

Happy to be out of the house!

Snack time!

Trampoline!

It's not child abuse if they're laughing, right?

Elin loves her Ewan!

This lasted a few minutes, until he ran her into the wall and she fell out. Paul was there to catch her!

Well, there's our November. We're looking forward to a busy December! I'm going to try a 31 day challenge, and blog everyday this month. I'm hoping it will get me in the habit...!

Halloween

2011-11-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

Halloween is not my favorite holiday. Okay, it is honestly my least favorite holiday ever. But, I have really cute kids, and it would be a crime if I didn't get them all dressed up to show them off! And, what's better than candy to help drown some sorrows, right? Anyway, so we went to our ward's Trunk-or-Treat this year. We went a little late, and didn't get a whole lot, but the kids had fun. We then dressed them up Monday night for the real deal. We went a little too early, I think. It was my idea to go so early. It gets really dark here and there aren't any street lights. True story...! This was our first year actually trick-or-treating. We got enough candy to satisfy them, and then went home to wait for our trick-or-treaters while we ate dinner. Seriously, my kids don't like candy that much, They like the idea of candy. They would ask for a piece of this or that. A few minutes later, Paul would find it half-chewed on the floor. They like M&M's. Ewan likes sour candy (he's like his Mama), but candy-bars or fruity stuff...no thanks! Onto the pictures.

Olivia went as Eloise at the Plaza. Elin was a ladybug for Halloween. Ewan was Harold and the Purple Crayon (google it!). Aislee was Angelina Ballerina.

For the trunk-or-treat, Elin was Ewan's purple crayon. It would have been cute if she would have kept the silly hate on. My fault!

Like my paint samples in the background? Yes, we picked the lighter one. We just need to find the time!

Elin fell asleep for most of the neighborhood walk, but she was still the cutest lady-bug ever!

They both insisted on being called Angelina and Eloise for the whole night! And, they called each other those names.

I don't know why they were grumpy. We kept telling them we were gonna get candy...!

This and That

2011-10-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

So, I need to update. It's been a while, and it always seems like I'm apologizing for not posting more often. I'm always waiting for something exciting to happen so I can have a cool post. But, alas, nothing cool has happened. I'll just do an update. Elin is crawling. She is now six months old, and she's a mover. She gets around through a combination of crawling and rolling. But, she has a hard time when she's trying to get to me, and I get up and pass her to go do something else. She's not too happy when that happens. She still loves attention, but doesn't really like to be picked up by the siblings. She's very grabby, and wants to eat everything! Elin is very happy and giggly! We love making her laugh and seeing her pretty smile. She is no longer able to sit in the Bumbo because she's strong enough to catapult herself out of it! Sad...but true. She's losing her hair all over the place! Blonde is growing in right under, but she resembles a thinning elderly person somedays, especially when there's a breeze! Ewan's doing well. He's learning all sorts of new words everyday. His latest is "Stop it". Olivia will sit behind him while they're watching a show and I'm getting Elin to sleep, and flick his ears. She's not doing it hard. It's just annoying. I can hear him say, "Stop it, Yaya! Stop it!" He's doing pretty well in nursery. He's a little possessive of his toys, but he does have two big sister that seem to take most of his stuff all the time. Sometimes he shuts himself in the playroom when they're playing in the living room, just so he can play by himself. Aislee is great! She's full of energy and spunk. She likes to run, jump, roll and tumble. Her jumping caused an injury, however. She jumped from a bunk bed when we were at friend's house and spent the next few days crawling or being carried. We got a doctor's opinion, and tried to take her for an x-ray a few times, but the place closed early each day we tried to go in. I was quite frustrated with the place and called the scheduler who kept telling me it wasn't supposed to be closed, and she would figure it out. Aislee is back to all her antics. We think she'll be fine! Olivia is just funny. She's very imaginative! Everyday we're something new, and we all have to play along. A few days ago I was "Mommy Badguy". She was "Yaya Badguy, Ewan was "Brother Badguy", and Aislee was "Doggy Badguy." It's a good thing Aislee doesn't mind being the doggy. So we all went around with toy weapons (frying pans) and horses. We may watch a little too much Tangled, but we love it! Paul's good. He's busy with work, training, and meetings. He has big plans for the backyard, and we can't wait! We love having Daddy home to run us around in the wheel barrel and push us in the swings. His graduate program starts in January, and he'll no longer get every-other Friday off (for 2 1/2 years...:-(), so we're trying to get as much done now! I'm good. I signed up for two races. One's in a few weeks, and the other is December. I'm running in the mornings with a friend of mine. It's nice 'cause it gets me up and going. I know she's gonna be there waiting. I'm also figuring out how to sew. I ordered fabric for curtains and pillows and can't wait to have our master somewhat resembling a bedroom!

Our swash-buckling rogue!

We made homemade ice cream for FHE a few weeks ago. We had the kids helping until they got too cold. We did a lot of the work!

But it was worth it!

The cats away...

2011-10-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

The mice will play! Sometimes I have to leave the room for a minute. I'm learning to wait as long as possible to leave the room, and to make sure nothing "bad" can happen while I am otherwise occupied. We also have locks on the pantry door and a gate on the playroom. One morning, I let the kids play with stickers on some paper while Elin was having Tummy-Time. I thought everyone was pretty well occupied. So, I snuck out for a minute (I drink a lot of water). I was gone for no more than three minutes! It's a good thing she is such an easy-going baby who likes attention from them. She may not survive long otherwise. We are also getting more/higher locks on all the doors to the outside world. They've been able to reach the locks for a long time. They just recently decided that they're going to use their skill. Olivia, especially enjoys going outside while Mommy is putting Elin down for her nap. Aislee likes to open the door, but her irrational fear of buggies keeps her on the door step, while Olivia takes off down the drive way and Ewan hurries after. No one has been hurt. I have suffered a few near heart attacks. We've had a few talks about cars, scary strangers, and the fact that bugs will eat your toes if you go outside without Mommy or Daddy. Olivia hasn't done it for quite a few days! And, I'm getting better at shutting the gate to the playroom when I put Elin down for her nap. Better to have angry toddlers than something much worse!

The squeaky wheel

2011-09-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

Upon returning home from Oklahoma in August, I needed to do some laundry. We had done a lot of it before we left because we don't really like traveling with loads of dirty laundry, and we don't have a lot of clothes. But, I wanted to wash blankets and pillow pets after being in the car for many ours and knowing/not knowing what may have been spilled on them. I ran a load, but something was different when I got things out of the washer. They were covered in little rubber flecks. The floor was also covered in water! Paul checks it out and calls Whirlpool to make a repair appointment. We haven't had the washer for more than nine months, so we knew it was still under warranty. This was on Sunday night, and the earliest appointment they have was Tuesday morning between 9 and noon. I was really worried that it was something I had done. I know that I do a lot of laundry. I was trying to figure out if I loaded it too much, or something had gotten caught in there that shouldn't have been washed...I worried until Tuesday morning. The repair man came, and said that there were little holes in the "bellow", the rubber portion that seals the front-loading washer. He assured me that he had the part in the truck and would be back in a few minutes. Forty-five minutes later he comes in and tells me that he doesn't have the part and that he put an order out for it. It would take 10-14 days. I just kinda looked at him for a minute, trying to figure out how we were going to survive 10-14 days without a washer. I'm sure my face showed a little shock because he soon said that if I called the costumer service line they can usually get it in a little faster. After he left, I called Paul and had him call the costumer service line because he's better at getting information out of people and getting them to do things. I am known as the "push-over". So, he calls back and says that the woman he spoke to said she would try to get it there in a few days. Thursday comes around and my dear, sweet, good neighbor allowed me to do a load of pajamas and kids' clothes at her house while we had a play-date. She was/is a life-saver! I got home, got the kids down for a nap, and was lying on the couch for a minute when Paul calls to tell me that the part for the washer was back-ordered until October! I couldn't believe it. There was no way I was going to mooch off my very gracious friends for two more months! I know they would have let me, but laundry is a big deal for a big families! I could easily do a load a day, and I have little mess makers. So, I looked up the number for the Whirlpool head quarters. I was going to be a squeaky wheel by-golly! I hadn't even had the washer for a year and it was falling apart. There must be something wrong with the part if other people are needing it 'cause it's back-ordered to October! I called, and tried not to get upset with the service person on the other line. I knew it was not his fault and I told him that I just needed somebody to listen to my issue and get me to someone who could do something about it. After talking for a few minutes, the poor guy felt pretty bad for me. Four kids under 3, potty-trained/training twins, newborn spit up, just got home from a long trip to a broken washer...he was very nice. He got in contact with a few more parts' dealers and said that he would do all that he could to get me the part. A few days past, a few loads of laundry we done at friends' homes, and a few more phone calls were made to Whirlpool. I finally told the man on the line (a new guy) that if I didn't get my part in a few days, he was either going to send me a new machine to replace this one with an extended warranty, pay me hourly for the inconvenience of going to laundromat, or get my part here as fast as he could. He was not as nice as the other guy. However, ten minutes after I got off the phone with hm, FedEx came and delivered a part. The repair man came back the next morning and fixed the machine (he wasn't as nice the second time around either). A week later another replacement part came. Sometimes, it's okay to be a squeaky wheel. I don't like doing it, but the functionality of my home was at stake. I am very grateful for modern conveniences...especially the smell of fabric softener, Tide and dryer sheets.

Yes, I'm THAT mother

2011-09-27T13:32:00.000-07:00

I've been struggling with something for a few months..okay, maybe a little longer than that. My son bites. I don't want to label him as the "biter" because I don't think it tells the whole story of what happens sometimes. Here's a little background before I get into any of the stories. Ewan has two older sisters that love to tease him. They love to take his toys because he always seems to pick the toy that they wish they would have grabbed. They also like to hug him and get in his face. This has been the way it has been since day one. He also can't communicate as well as they can, and for a little while they were bigger than him. Not true anymore, he is right between them. For a while, his only line of defense when Mom was not there to intervene was to bite. It got them moving away from him very quickly, and he got his toy back. I didn't know what to do with this little guy and his biting. We had countless Family Home Evenings on our bodies and how we need to be nice to other people's bodies and not bite or hit. We had the twins saying, "No, Ewan. Teeth are for eating. We don't bite," if he bit them. Sometimes it happens, but often times they come to me in tears with teeth marks on their hands or arms from him biting them. I'd ask them what happened. Between tears and wailing, they admit that they had taken his toy (it's nice when they're honest). So, instead of just punishing the reactor for reacting, the "toy-stealer" sat on the couch as well. It's not always them doing something, but a lot of the time it is. I tried putting him "time-out", but I am awful at that! And, he seems to kinda like it because he is by himself and no one is bothering him. Then it happened...Nursery! It was somewhat of a difficult Sunday for everyone. Paul had just gotten called into Elders' Quorum, Elin was still very little, the girls were being potty-trained, and I was teaching our very rambunctious Primary class of six 6 year old boys by myself. I'm sitting in Primary when I hear Ewan crying, and one of the primary teachers brings him to me. "He bit four kids. He can't come back. You might want to talk to him about it," she says as she hands me a very sad little boy. Talk to him about it? Do you know how many times I have talked to my 19 month old about biting? I took him out in the hall and we "talked". He was very sad, and probably didn't quite understand what was going on, but he knew he was in trouble. I rocked him, and we once again, went over why teeth are for eating, biting hurts, and how we love him, but he really can't do that anymore. I was praying in my head to know what to do and how to make this right. Four kids?! A thought comes to mind, not my own, "Take him back in, have him see the owey, have him give a hug and a kiss and say 'Sorry'." So, we walk the 8 miles back to Nursery to "make it right". I'm getting a little emotional just typing my story. I ask the leaders who he bit, and they point to the little girls. Only three were present, because the boy was crying and was taken to his mother. I sit down with him next to the little girls, they're all older than him and ask them where their oweies are. I show Ewan, and he understands that it's owey because he says, "Oooh, owey" and points to it. I have him give a hug and kiss and say "Sorry". Now, it's time to find the mom with the crying child. Not hard to find, because he's still crying. We repeat our new ritual. I felt like things were made right. I tried to do my best. I asked the head Nursery leader what happened. She told me that it wasn't just Ewan, but that he had a toy that everyone seemed to want. It wasn't the first time, and it wasn't the last time. I don't know if the mothers of the children my son bit really understand what it's like to have a child who bites. I came home in tears, and have come home in tears a few Sundays because of this. I have made it an effort of fervent prayer. I have talked to him countless times. We sit and rock in his room when he bites one of the twins and we talk about oweies. We then go back to play and give hugs and kisses. He's getting to the point where we don't have to go in the room. I just have to show him the owey and he gives a hug and a kiss and says Sorry. I don't know what else to do but wait 'til he's big enough to understand a little more. He really is a sweet little boy. He loves to give hugs and kisses. He adores Elin, and worries when she cries. He likes to cuddle and sing songs, and read books. What else to do but wait, and hope that those other mothers know that I am doing my best?

No TV

2011-09-07T13:42:00.000-07:00

I've been pretty bad at blogging. It's not that I'm busy, most stay-at-home moms understand that we're not really "busy" in the sense that we do a lot. We're busy in the sense that we're doing a lot. I can usually be found holding a baby (keeping her from being tugged on, kissed, sat on and "loved" a little too much), picking up toys, filling the dish washer, throwing clothes in the laundry, and ushering kids to the bathroom. While I was doing the dishes after dinner Paul asked me if I ever got tired of washing the same dishes, mopping the same floor, wiping the same table, and folding the same laundry. I just kinda looked at him, not really finding an adequate response. I guess, if I ever get tired of the same stuff, I can always hire out my services...and wash someone else's. Anyway, back to the post. We have been without a TV since the end of June. One morning after I came back from running, I went to turn a show on for the kids while I showered during Elin's morning nap. She doesn't nurse well if I smell all sweaty and stuff, so I shower while she's asleep and let the kids watch Little Einsteins or Backyardigans ( I <3 Backyardigans!). The TV wouldn't turn on. We were having problems with it turning on for a few weeks. It took a few minutes to "warm-up". Paul said he would look at it, and we had been talking about getting a new TV for a while, but I would only get a new one if I could have it mounted so little fingers couldn't get to the buttons and screen. That is why the TV went out. It had been pushed on and off way too many times. It had to be wiped down way too many times to get rid of sticky fingers. It had been tapped and pushed way too many times any cartoon character asked, "Where is the red balloon?" or "Can you find the green pinata?" Yeah, way too many times! Paul discovered the lamp went out, and thought that he could fix it. We put it in the front bedroom that we don't use yet. But, after I left the front bedroom's door unlocked one day and came back after going to the restroom to find the kids jumping on the screen, we chose to get rid of it. I defend myself by saying, "When would he have actually found the time to fix it?" So, we have been without a TV. We've always had our desktop computer hooked up to our TV so that we can stream Netflix, disney.com, hgtv, foodnetwork, and espn. Now we have the monitor hooked up so that we can do all those things. Our children crowed the small computer screen to watch shows and movies. It's pretty hilarious and takes us back to the first few months we were married, living in Oklahoma City without a TV, a bed, a dining room table, and a couch. We would watch episodes of Lost on my computer in the evenings after work while laying on our air mattress. Why haven't we gotten another TV, you might ask? Well, if you know Paul and me you'd know that we don't like to spend money, unless it's on groceries and cinder blocks for the trampoline hole that is now complete. Whenever we have made a large purchase of any type, it has taken a months to actually get it. Paul does research for months while I rationalize why we still don't need it. We've even downgraded our Netflix package to just instant because what's the point of having the blueray package when you can't watch the bluerays or normal dvds anyway? However, I think I am coming to the point of not being able to rationalize it anymore. For one, the speakers on the computer aren't very good. And two, sometimes I would like to actually see how Austin and Uniquea get out of the jungle while being chased by Pablo, Tasha, and Tyrone. Who wouldn't? And, we can't really have family movie night when half of the family can't see or hear anything. I've been okay with it for a while, but if Paul comes home and suggests we move Ewan to our bed and we use the air mattress until we decide to buy a king size...I may have to make a large purchase on my own. Or, could rationalize the air mattress for a while if it means that Elin is in the crib and sleeping through the night, and Ewan has his own bed...

We miss this!

Birthdays (We're 3!)

2011-08-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

The twins are now 3! My, how time has flown! It's cliche, but it really does go by fast. I saw a quote, "The days go by slow, but the years go by fast." It's true. So, we now have three-year-olds. They are getting big and learning new things all the time. Being a mother of twins sure is interesting, sometimes! Anyway, onto birthday stuff...These pictures are in particular order since I can't seem to get them to add in the order I would like them to.

Birthday morning. They asked for pancakes, and to have Ewan in between them. They've been asking for pancakes everyday since.

Dinner on their birthday. They have Num-Num cookies and ice cream for dessert.

We had a party with friends and family (paul's cousin lives down here). It was quite the gathering of 40+ people.

Aislee and two of her buddies.

Olivia on her birthday wearing my 1/2marathon medal and talking on a play-phone.

Ewan put some potato head glasses on Elin. Elin POTTER Burkinshaw?

The cake. The girls really like blocks. It didn't turn out as clean as I wanted it to, but we were rushed a little with the frosting. I should have added more powdered sugar and less butter for the frosting so it wouldn't have melted. But, it was pretty warm with lots of people!

The spread. We had shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches, potato salad, fruit, veggies, chips and Num-Num cookies.

Happy birthday to you!

Olivia eating her cake.

Ewan enjoyed going outside with all the boys and throwing dirt at the block wall.

We opened lots of wonderful presents!

Everyone was very excited!

O-K-L-A-H-O-M-A

2011-08-16T12:46:00.000-07:00

We just got back from our trip to Oklahoma. Paul's family was having a family reunion in Kansas City for a few days. We spent most of the time at Paul's parents' house in Bartlesville. We had a great time! Here are some of the pictures from our adventures. (more to come)

The resort had a waterpark with a very big bucket that dropped 1000 gallons of water every few mins.

They had fun playing with their cousins. This is Ailsee, Ewan, Paul and Grace.

They rode horses in Bartlesville. That's Aislee with Uncle Ryan.

Aislee and Grandpa.

Aislee with Daddy at the pool.

We had family pictures taken, but they won't be ready for a few more weeks. Everyone brought cameras and took pictures while we each had turns with the photographer. This is Elin with Aunt Jessica.

We had three babies born in three months. Owen is 10 weeks older than Elin, and Landon is 5 weeks older.

Elin with Grandpa.

Another shot with Aunt Jessica.

Grandma and Ewan at the waterpark.

Ewan on a horse.

He gave this look a lot!

Ewan and Daddy.

Ewan and Sam. It took a little while, but they figured out how to get along.

Future missionaries!

They're pretty cute boys.

Ewan found the snacks and a chair just his size.

Grace and Elin.

Grandma and Aislee.

Grandma and the twins (Olivia and Aislee).

Keeping kids happy in between pictures.

Olivia loves horse...well, Olivia loves animals!

Olivia, Aunt Julie and Grandma

Olivia

Olivia loves the waterpark. She had fun running away from everybody!

Olivia going down the slide.

Funfilled Weekend

2011-08-01T14:00:00.000-07:00

We had a fantastic weekend filled with visitors and get togethers! I didn't take any pictures, pah! Sorry. We had one of my closest friends, Jenni, her husband, Mason and their seven week-old baby Benson come down on Saturday from Mesa. They just moved here after graduating from dental school in Texas. I was a brides-maid at her wedding, and was there in O-chem when she told me she was gonna get a date with the tall, dark and handsome guy a few rows behind us who later became her husband! It was fun to visit and get to know Benson. He sure is cute! The girls are still talking about "Baby Benson". We were going to go swimming, but the clouds rolled in and it started to pour soon after we got to the pool. We went home, watched some Wallace and Gromit, ate soup, and visited a little while longer. Thanks for coming! We also had a brunch on Sunday with some friends in our neighborhood. We had 16 kids under 10! It was quite the busy household for a few hours, but a lot of fun. We don't get to meet/talk to very many people at church, so we've decided we needed a little social interaction (I decided. Paul let's me). We ate muffins, breakfast casserole, lots of yummy fruit, and just talked. It's always nice to talk to adults. I didn't have to ask any of them if they needed to go potty. It was great! We hope they come again! Here are some pictures of the past couple weeks.

Elin fell asleep while the vacuum was going one evening. She doesn't normally fall asleep by herself.

Sad that this may possibly be the best picture we got...Aislee bumped her head on the couch right before we started taking pictures. She didn't want anyone to see it.

Olivia likes to play "nap time", especially with Elin. I wish she would actually play "nap time" better when it's time to take a nap.

I didn't go running that day, so I was lifting kids up and down instead...Just kidding. Elin laughs when we hold her up like that.

Paul told the kids to tickle me while I was trying to get Elin to laugh.

If you zoom in, you can see her amazing spit bubble, along with a string of drool that landed on my neck.

She's very bright-eyed and happy.

And, extremely easy-going with three older siblings that like her very much!

Olivia, "I do it myself." Those are pants. Paul had to wrestle her to the ground to get her pants on the right way!

Aislee's is striking a pose, and Olivia was explaining to me how that's the right way to wear her pants.

He looks so BIG next to her!

Just an update with pictures

2011-07-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

We haven't really been that busy, but we've been having fun. We had a visit from three of the Uncles for a few days (Rand, Jace and Court). We've enjoyed July and the fact that Paul has had 4 four-day work weeks this month. It's nice to have Daddy home! We've really enjoyed Monsoon season because it cools things down quite a bit and we're able to go outside in the evenings, jump pm the tramp and swing on the swingset. We'll do an update on everyone. Elin had her two month check. She weighed 11lbs 11oz and was 24 1/2inches. She coos, smiles, laughs (she thinks Ewan is hilarious), and kicks her legs like she's running a race. She's very easy-going, and doesn't mind lying on the floor as long as someone is paying attention to her, but not crushing her tummy. She'll spit up on you if you do that. Sorry Ewan! We've learned that Elin does not like her carseat. I had to drive up to Tucson for an appointment, and she pretty much screamed the whole time. I felt pretty bad about it, but there was nothing I could do. She took a pretty good nap when we got home, though. When I took Elin in for her check, Ewan came along for his. I drove into Tucson to see our old pediatrician because we just haven't found one we really like. I have to say, it was worth the drive to have a doctor make you feel like you were doing a pretty good job. Ewan didn't get any shots, and was probably pretty relieved, especially after watching Elin get hers. He's doing very well developmentally. He likes to say NO, and he'll let you know if you're getting too close to his personal bubble. He's mimicking almost everything, and tries to repeat words after we say them. We know that Ewan understands a lot, even though he may not say a TON. He nods or shakes his head when asked a question. He really likes having Daddy home, and can't wait to be big enough to help with all the outdoor projects. Ewan had a rough Sunday a few weeks ago, and I'm debating on whether or not I'm gonna let him go back to nursery. I think it was rougher on me than him (after being told that I needed to cut the apron strings with him, and that I need to be tougher with him when he gets upset). I came home feeling like a pretty lousy mommy. It's a good thing Paul gives good hugs and assures me that I'm doing okay. Aislee is doing really well with being a BIG sister to a little sister. She is always eager to help get diapers, pacifiers, or hold Elin for a minute. She's been waking up pretty early lately and wanting to jump and swing. Sometimes Paul is able to distract her by building the "biggest tower ever" in the playroom. Aislee is really good at cleaning up the blocks and play food. Her favorites lately are cheese, crackers and Num-Num cookies (M&M cookies). We're looking forward to her turning three in a month! Olivia is Crazy Horse! She's doing really well being the oldest. She worries when Elin is crying and wants to make it all better. She loves building towers with Aislee and Daddy, but gets kinda bugged when Ewan knocks it over. We have to tell her that if he didn't knock it over, she wouldn't be able to build a better one! She loves the swingset and tramp also. We can't wait for grass and cooler weather! She's also anxious to have a birthday and be a BIG three year old! Paul is busy. He put the swingset together a few weeks ago, and everyone loves it! He's getting ready for his master's by taking a few classes this summer, and getting training in a few new areas. He passed his FE exam that he took a few weeks before Elin was born! He's also looking forward to cooler weather and babies that sleep through the night. I'm doing really well. They split our ward a few Sundays ago, which gives more opportunities to serve and a less crowded Primary and nursery. I've been asked a lot lately just what is it that I do all day. I'll save that for another post. I've been trying to set up play-dates and activities so that we can get some interaction with other people, and so I can talk to an adult every-once-in-a-while. I've been trying to run at least 4 days a week in the mornings to have some "hands-free" time. It's not too hot running by the pecan groves down here, but the bugs are starting to come out a little more. I've learned that if I keep moving, they don't bother me. It's motivation to put one foot in front of the other until I get to the door!

Playing at the pool

They were having races to the Frisbee

My little Cheeser

More races

Aislee bumped her nose and insisted on a bandaid.

Elin's little swimsuit. She hasn't actually gotten in the water, but she wears it when we go to the pool.

Ewan at bedtime. He likes to read for a few minutes before I read stories to him.

Movie night!

Elin in the tub. I have pictures of the twins in the tub, and Ewan in the tub...just because she's gonna be a middle child doesn't mean she can't have pictures of herself, too!

The twins like to workout with me on the mornings I don't go running. Olivia will take a break and ask me how I'm doing. Then she says, "You're doing great! Don't stop!"

Look at those smiles!

Uncle Jace with his stache. After taking this picture and showing it too him, he shaved!

Water Baby Elin.

With the Uncles.

We went to the zoo with the Uncles. It was 105 out, but we brought a lot of water!

We couldn't quite figure out if his horn was supposed to look like that.

Uncle Jace saying CHEESE

Ewan poured most of his down his front. It was dry by the time we got back to the car.

The Uncles and Paul were egging the polar bear on, trying to get him to jump. He did not.

We saw the new lions, or as Olivia likes to call him Ligons.

Court also had a wet head for a few minutes.

We went to Fuddruckers after the zoo

I was trying to distract the girls before our food was ready by telling them to touch their tongues to their noses.

Didn't really do it


Ewan wanted a box drink from our trip to the zoo, and Mommy wouldn't let him carry it around the house.

The thunder starts and then the rains come. It's wonderful!

Reading stories with Daddy before Mommy takes Elin away.

My Mom made Elin's blessing dress. It's beautiful. I didn't get very many pictures that Sunday, so I took them this Sunday.

Giggling

I didn't have one with just her and me that Sunday either.

We were ready a few minutes before our 1:30 church.


We'll have to figure out the timer on the camera so Paul can participate and get Olivia to put her hand down.

Lock Down

2011-06-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd better blog about this before I forget the details. We're trying to figure out what we'd like to do with the yard. I called a couple companies to come and give some quotes on a few of the big jobs. I had a guy scheduled to come at noon on Thursday. It was Thursday morning and I had my day all figured out on how I was going to have kids all fed and down for naps before the guy came. The twins have been waking up kind of early lately, so an 11:30 nap time works well. Elin was fed and asleep. The twins had just gone potty before naps. I'm heading Ewan's room to lay home down when the doorbell rang. The guy is at the door a half an hour early! So, I blame this chaotic episode completely on him! In that half an hour, I would have had all four of them asleep and we could have discussed landscape options without little ones.Here goes it. I send the kids into the playroom so we can talk for a few minutes. It wasn't supposed to take very long. I show him the picture of what we want to do and explain in what sequence we're needing things. We then walk outside to look at the grandeur that is our backyard. The little ones follow. It's over 100 degrees already and it's not even noon! Ewan tries to walk out to the backyard, but soon realizes that it's way too hot for his little feet. The guy goes to measure some things, and I put the kids in the nice cool house. I put a Dora on so we wouldn't be distracted. I shut the back door to keep the cold air in and keep the little ones in. I'm standing at the shut door talking to Paul on the phone to get specifics while the guy measures some more. We have a window the length of the door, so I'm looking in at Ewan. He reaches upto the knob and locks the door. He's been doing this a lot lately. Aislee comes over and I try to explain to her how to unlock the door so I can get in. She reaches up and deadbolts the door. Yes, that's right. She deadbolts the door. I tell the guy that we're locked out of the house. He laughs and says, "Seriously?" We walk to the front of the house and find out that I locked the front door behind him as he came in, and the 3rd garage door is also locked. Yes, indeed. We are locked out of the house. We walk back around to the back of the house. He sits in one of our nice lawn chairs while I call Paul and tell him that he needs to come home and let me into the house. He's on his way. I continue in my attempts to explain to two and a half year olds how to unlock the deadbolt and doorknob. The doorknob is unlocked. Ewan is crying because Aislee took the grass samples from him. Olivia is crying because someone pulled her hair and "Mommy needs to come in and talk to them". I can hear all this, but can't do anything about it. I tried to calm the crying children down, and convince the other to reach up like she does every day, and unlock the deadbolt. I'm doing this while trying to convince the nice landscape guy that my life isn't always this chaotic. We were out there for about 40 minutes talking, trying to get them to unlock the door, and then I hear Elin wake up. She has been woken up by the crying of the other two. I'm praying that Paul gets home soon, and feeling extremely helpless with this very nice man who's asking me if we plan on having more kids "'cause you sure make cute ones". I was seriously waiting for Danny Tanner or the Olsen Twins to come around the corner! This doesn't happen to normal people! Paul arrives. My hero! He goes to talk to the guy while I soothe three crying children, and try to convince them that Mommy did not mean to leave and not help them. Lesson that I have learned, carry my keys at all times, you never know when the landscape guy is gonna come over early and you're not gonna be able to get everyone to sleep and a toddler will accidentally lock you and the landscape guy out of the house. We're safe, unscathed, and probably not gonna go with the quote this guy gave us, as nice as he was.

Survival of the Burkinshaws

2011-06-09T14:46:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while since I posted last. It's not because we're busy, more because I don't really know what to post about. Life with four kids isn't as exciting as it sounds. It's a little busier, and there's always someone who needs something, but as far as excitement...that only comes when the "potty-trained" kids come into the living room when I've just sat down to nurse a baby and say, "Mommy, I need to go potty." That can get kind of exciting. Other than those moments, life is pretty uneventful. We've been a family of six for six weeks, and we're hoping we've gotten into the groove of things. Elin hasn't quite slept through the night consistently, but she only wakes up once. There is light at the end of the tunnel. She likes to be held, but what baby doesn't like to be held? Elin also enjoys tummy time and attention from the others, as long as Ewan isn't laying on her. We had her one week check and she was back upto her birth weight. We won't be going in again until her two month mark. She's a good eater, doesn't spit-up much, and sleeps as long as someone's not bugging her. Ewan pays attention to Elin every once-in-a-while, but doesn't seem to be jealous or anything. He likes to hold her until she starts to get fussy, and then he'd rather not. Ewan is still our good sleep, eater, and player. He's getting big enough to really hold his own if he wants something from a sister. He went to nursery for the first time a few weeks ago, and seems to do well. We may need to have a few more talks on biting! (sorry nursery leaders!) Ewan loves the trampoline and being outside. He doesn't like being bounced too high, but he'll get there. Aislee is the little mother. She's always wanting to hold Elin, feed Elin, burp Elin, and sit by Elin. It's helpful some of the time. She also loves the trampoline and would probably spend all day on it if Paul would stop telling her that buggies are going to eat her toes. Aislee is doing very well with potty-training, and wakes up dry most of the time. She's showing a little more of her personality. She has to be entertained and doing new things constantly! Most days, I wish I could clone myself just to keep up with her energy! Olivia is our little "Crazy-Horse". Every morning I'm something new, "Mommy Monkey", "Mommy Noodle", "Mommy Doggy". She insists on being "Baby Monkey", "Baby Noodle" or "Baby Doggy" all day. If we tell her she's pretty, she says "NO! I'm Crazy Horse." She holds Elin until she cries, and then tells me to hold her and make her stop. She's doing very well with potty-training. Her personality is also starting to come out more. She'll color, build blocks, make Potato Heads or "read" for hours without moving. She needs me to have her take "potty-breaks" or she just wouldn't go. Paul finished the trampoline! He's going to be doing more backyard projects this summer because I told him if the backyard wasn't functional by the time he started his master's in January, then I'm hiring someone to come and do it. We've ordered or swingset and we've purchased several things to get the pavers done. Hopefully we'll get it finished long before he starts so that he can enjoy it for a little while. Paul passed his Functional Engineering exam, and will be studying for his Professional Engineering exam in the Fall. He recently got called into the Elders Quorum Presidency which keeps him busy with weeknight visits and meetings. I'm looking forward to the backyard being done, and having a place to send kids! I recently took up sewing and did some much needed hemming of jeans, made a new nursing bib and carseat cover. I'd like to make some pillows for the living room to add some colors to the room. I've learned that sewing is 90-95% preparation and 5-10% actually doing something. I'm looking forward to getting back into running shape and training for some sort of race to keep me motivated. Well, enough of a long-winded update! Onto the pictures!

Elin just hanging out

Ewan just hanging out

Making cookies with Grandma Stacey

Just getting back from the pool (the water hasn't warmed up much yet)

Paul and Elin before bed

The kids with Grandma Stacey when she came out to visit a few weeks ago. Elin wasn't very happy to be in that position.

Anytime the swing is on the floor, Ewan likes to get in it.

Aislee and "her" baby

The trampoline hole completed

Fun! I probably shouldn't have been on it since it was just a few days after baby.

Hours of fun!

The playroom mess. We know the "clean-up" song very well!

There he is again!

Olivia joins in sometimes too....stinkers!

Elin

A smile...oh the smile!

He's so big!

Paul and P. O. P. POP!

Now we need grass!

Ewan on his Hippo

Grandpa Jeff and Grandma Stacey came out for Elin's blessing.

Uncle Coy, Grandma Maureen, Grandpa Tim and Uncle Kett came down for the blessing also.

The men

Grandpa Tim, Paul, Elin, and Grandpa Jeff

Our little family. Aislee, Paul, Ewan, Molly, Elin, and Olivia

Grandpa Jeff and Elin. This happened with both Grandpas a few times over the weekend. I didn't take very many pictures, but we had a lot of fun going to the pool, the park, and just spending time together. Thanks for coming!

What's in a name?

2011-05-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

Paul and I haven't really chosen names for our kids that are very common...well, Olivia may be number 3 on this year's top 100 baby names, but the rest of them aren't even on the top one-thousand. Anyway, we've been asked a lot lately how we've come up with our kids names. We will be the first to admit that naming a baby is a hard thing. They're going to be called that for the rest of their lives, pretty much. That's a lot of pressure for a parent. And, when you settle on a name and you tell someone, they sure have an opinion about it! For the last two, we've kept our "ideas" to ourselves for the most part. We usually knew what the middle name was going to be long before the first name. We feel it's important to honor those who will/have a significant influence on us and our children. Here are the stories on how we came up with their names.

Olivia Christine: For our first date, Paul and I went to a concert called Guitars Unplugged at BYU. I'm kind of sentimental and, since we were engaged and still at BYU a year after our first date, I wanted to go to Guitars Unplugged again. One of the guys that sang the previous year performed a song called Olivia. It was about his niece and how full of energy and bubbly she was while he was babysitting her. This song was a lullaby. I'm kind of a sucker for acoustic guitars, so I loved it! Paul bought me the CD, so we have it if anyone wants to hear our inspiration. Olivia's middle name, Christine, is my oldest sister's middle name (Megan Christine). After she passed away, I knew I wanted to use it as a middle name.

Aislee (Aze-Lee) Maureen: I'm the fourth of ten and the youngest girl, which means that I have 6 younger brothers. Talk about a lot of names to come up with! All ten of us have Irish names because my mother has strong Irish heritage. My mom had a few girl names waiting in the wings just in case...and she hasn't gotten to use them. One happened to be "Aislee". It's a Gaelic name similar to Ainsley and Ainsling. They mean "hermitage in or at the clearing or wood". We liked the sound of Aislee. We paired it with my mom's name which is my middle name. After the twins were born, I was at a department store shopping with my mother-in-law and sisters-in-law when I heard a woman calling for "Aislee". I went over to her with the twins and introduced myself (very uncommon for me!) and introduced my little girls. Her Aislee was two, and she had a four year old named Olivia. Weird, uh? Side note:With the twins, they were officially named after the BIG ultrasound. We were told after that ultrasound that they wouldn't be moving around (like switching sides) much so I could name them according to what side they were one. Olivia was on my right and Aislee was on my left.


Ewan (You-win) Jeffrey: He may have been the hardest to name. We had a name picked out from the beginning, but about three weeks before he was born, Paul decided that there was a better name out there for his little guy. So, the search for the perfect name to fit with the others began. We went through our baby-name book, websites, friend and family suggestions several times. We decided on a middle name, Jeffrey, Paul's dad's name. He is a wonderful person and we hope that Ewan looks towards him (and his other grandpa) as a good example of a husband and father. The first name was a little more difficult. I really liked Ian, but Paul didn't like it so much. He liked Owen, but I didn't like it so much. Ewan was on our list and a possibility. By the second day in the hospital and several calls from Medical Records, we settled on Ewan Jeffrey.

Elin (Ee-lin) Stacey: This one was also kinda hard. We had two names that we had pretty much settled on, but we both liked one of them over the other. Paul was calling her one name and I was calling her the other name. There may have been a little brain-washing with the other kids for names. Also, a few people thought the baby was a boy after we told them one of the names as an option. Paul didn't really like that so much. After going to the hospital the first time, Paul decided that we really needed to settle on a name. Once again, we knew the middle name, Stacey, which is Paul's mother's name. We both agreed on Elin, which is Scandinavian for "light" or "knowledge". Now that we have to pay for college for four kids, she better be full of a lot of knowledge and get a scholarship!

And then there were six...!

2011-05-02T14:09:00.000-07:00

In between contractions right before we left for the hospital

Chillin' in her safe place

Aislee getting to Elin in her safe place...

Elin Stacey

Olivia holding Elin

Ewan holding Elin

Ewan trying to carry Elin

Ewan watching Little Einsteins...way more interesting than the baby on the floor

Doing what she does best...

With Grandma

Olivia and Grandma

It was a struggle to get a good picture with Grandma

Ewan wasn't too interested in taking pictures.

So, we're here at home, by ourselves. My mom went back on Friday to give us some time to adjust to being a family of six. It's been a little bit of an adjustment. The girls love to hold Elin! I think once the novelty of the new baby wears off, I'll be able to feed her without them wanting to help so much. I'm glad that they're excited about her rather than not wanting her around. She has a safe place similar to Ewan's, but now the twins are a little better equipped to get to her. They get a little nervous when she starts to cry and ask me to help her get quiet. Ewan gets interested for a few minutes, but then goes back to what he was doing. It's probably a good thing. Paul went back to work today. It hasn't been too bad so far. Elin sleeps a lot! She's pretty easy-going when the kiddos want to hold her. She's pretty quiet when she's awake, and really only cries when she gets a cold wipe on her bottom or while getting a sponge bath. We're still trying to coordinate nursing, but she's a good eater when she does. Elin does pretty well during the nights. She gets up twice, eats, gets a diaper change and then goes back to sleep without a lot of trouble. I seem to sleep better after the baby comes than the previous weeks leading upto delivery.We're doing okay. We're looking forward to Grandma Stacey's visit on Thursday, and miss Grandma Maureen. Thanks for the visit!

Pictures

2011-04-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

She's twice as big as the twins, and a pound bigger than Ewan.

Yeah..sorry. It was a long night. I was kinda tired.

Getting toasty.

She has a lot of dark hair!

Getting acquainted.

The girls, Olivia, Mommy, Aislee and Elin.

My four little ones. Ewan just wanted to walk around the hospital.

And then there were six!

Three generations.

Aislee could not get enough baby time.

Long story...LONG (it's a labor story...you don't have to read)

2011-04-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

In order to tell the story, I have to start from Tuesday morning, the 19th. Dr. Decker stripped my membranes the previous Friday and said, "I'll see you this weekend." Doctors really shouldn't give such promises! Anyway, all weekend I was having pretty good contractions, but nothing that would make me go to the hospital. Around 1:30am on Tuesday morning I was having contractions every two minutes. I waited to get Paul up because I didn't want to be sent home. I nudged him around 3:30am and told him what was going on and that I was getting in the shower to see if they'd go away if I was a little more relaxed. They didn't. We waited until the kids got up and we could arrange for someone to watch them until my Mom could get there that evening. She was planning on leaving the next day to come out with my brothers, but because I was in labor (or so we all thought) she was leaving the boys at home and flying to Tucson. We left for 45 minute drive to the hospital. My contractions weren't as frequent, but stronger. They checked and I was at a three. Dr. Decker was on call and had me walk around for an hour and get rechecked. I was still at a three. He had just gotten out of an emergency C-section and said he was very tired. He gave me some ambien and sent me home saying, "I'll see you sometime this week." He was right, I saw him at my appointment on Thursday. By then I was at a 4. He scheduled an induction on the 28th if nothing happened before then. For the next 4 days, I had contractions every ten minutes all day, and around one in the morning to four, was having contractions every one to two minutes. So, we made normal plans for the week. My Mom was wonderful enough to stay, let Paul and I go for walks and a date. We planned an anniversary outing, since we'd be celebrating our 4th. We went to bed Tuesday night anticipating our date the next day and induction the following. Around 12:30 I started getting contractions every minute. They were pretty uncomfortable, but contractions aren't comfortable. I waited...I really didn't want to get sent home again. They were getting stronger and I was having a hard time breathing through some of them. I nudged Paul. He must have sensed that things were different and started suggestioning we go in. I kept saying, "No, they'll just send me home." Finally, I couldn't talk, walk, and could hardly breathe during them. Paul convinced me. We got ready, told my mom we were leaving, and headed. It was now 3:30am and I was so not getting sent home! Tucson doesn't have a very good freeway system...well, one at all! Every turn, pot hole, or stop light became very uncomfortable. We finally got there, checked in at triage, and monitored. The nurse asked me what I was at the last time I was checked. I told her, and she said, "Well, honey you're at 6-7 and 90%. You just won yourself a ticket!" I was glad not to be sent home, but a little nervous about getting the epidural in time. My mom had just told me the day before that she would go from a 7 to a 10 in one contraction. Everything happened really fast. They told me that I was very important and they were going to get everything ready very quickly. Dr. Decker was on call and wanted me to have my epidural as soon as I got to my room. He was in a C-section and would come and check on me right after I got my epidural. I had to wait a few minutes for my labs. My epidural really wasn't as good as it was the last times. They had me tilted to one side so a lot of the fluid went to my left side and I was able to feel the contractions in a pocket around my right hip. So they rotated me to my right side. Dr. Decker checked, I was still at a 7, and he had to run and take his three kids to school. By the time he got back, my contractions were pretty good on the right side. Paul kept asking if I felt like pushing. I was now at a 9. Dr. Decker broke my water, and we waited a little while. He came back in to see me breathing heavily through a contraction and said, "Lets get this baby out." It's really weird to feel contractions on only one side of your body. I couldn't move my left leg at all, but I could move just about everything on my right side! Once the pushing started, I just focused on that. She was out in less than five minutes. She cried for a little while. She has a good set of lungs on her. I got to hold and feed her right after. She is a very good eater when she eats. She sleeps a lot, and is a little confused about night and day. We'll work that one out. It was a really neat experience. Paul was a very good coach and held my hand during the contractions that were not so fun. The twins are excited for "their baby". Ewan is just glad Mommy's lap isn't so crowded! The staff has been wonderful and very helpful. We're glad everything worked out. It was a wonderful anniversary present! We're still looking forward to going on a date. This time, we'll just be bringing a little one with us.

Welcome welcome Baby Elin!

2011-04-28T07:08:00.000-07:00

Elin Stacey Burkinshaw
April 27, 2011
8lbs 4 oz
18 1/2 inches

Pictures! Finally!

2011-04-05T20:23:00.000-07:00

We weren't able to get our camera's software to work on any of our computers, so we ordered an SD-USB reader. We're hoping it works for a while. We don't have much to report. Everyone is doing fine. Paul is getting ready for an exam this weekend. I have promised not to go into labor until after Saturday. I've been having contractions at night that last a couple hours but then stop. I feel like the baby has dropped (more frequent trips to the bathroom) and things are progressing, but probably not that fast. I walked around at a 3-4+ with Ewan for a couple weeks before anything really happened. Every appointment my doctor would say, "See you tonight. You're water's gonna break sometime in the next couple of hours. If not, which I doubt, I'll see you in two days." Yeah, I saw him every two days for a week and a half! I've asked him not to get my hopes up and that I would let him know when I was in labor. He just laughed and said that he trusted me. We have everything ready for this little person except a going-home outfit. I'm still trying to find the perfect outfit. The girls came home in preemie outfits, so I can't really reuse 'em. I have a little boy outfit, just in case. The twins are basically potty-trained. We've been working on it for almost a week. I remind them every so often, and we run to the bathroom. They're doing better at letting me know when they need to go. Ewan doesn't like not being included in things. He can now reach the door knobs, so I have to lock the bathroom when I'm helping the girls. It gets a little crowded with three under three and a big pregnant lady! He gets rather angry and sticks his little hands under the door and cries, "momma...! iaaahhh!" He calls the twins collectively "I-a". He knows who's who, too. Well, onto the pictures!

They will push anything/anyone around the island in the kitchen.

Enjoying March in AZ.

He's such a goof!

Paul will push them around in the wheel barrel while I make dinner. They really enjoy it!

Someday we'll have grass...well, artificial grass!

Helping Daddy with their shovels.

I have a lot of pictures of the twins sleeping. I decided that I needed some good ones of Ewan.

Pictures from when the Uncles came. We went to the zoo. There's a tiger in their somewhere!

Enjoying some goldfish while looking at the animals.

Kett pushed Ewan around, and kept stealing his goldfish.

The elephants. Ewan loves to make elephant noises.

The giraffe. We were going to feed them, but the line was really long!

Ewan just as cute as can be!

Checking out the rhino.

Zebras.

We stopped and looked at the huge fish and the ducks.

Olivia kept calling them NEMO.

Dancing with Uncle Rand.

Olivia, Kett, Ewan and Aislee.

Aislee, Rand, Ewan and Olivia.

Preschool. The girls wanted to color Rainbows while the boys wanted to stay in the playroom with the racecars.

One of the little guys in preschool.

We've been watching Incredibles in the car. So...we had to be super heroes when we got home. I don't think they understand why the Incredibles do not have capes.

Pretending to be asleep.

Unsuccessful and eventful

2011-03-27T21:29:00.000-07:00

So, the picturing loading thing has been slightly unsuccessful...well, actually we've been kind of busy and we just haven't gotten around to it. Paul has been working hard to get the trampoline hole ready for the trampoline. It has been purchased, delivered, and put together. The hole is complete, and Paul is working on laying the cinder blocks. We cannot wait! We had visitors from Cedar City two weeks ago. Uncle Rand and Uncle Kett came for a Spring Break visit. Rand was a lot of help digging the hole. I think he got kinda bored with me. He would take his ipod and head to the backyard. Kett entertained the kids. We went to the Zoo, the park, and the pool. It was fun to have visitors, and we hope they enjoyed their time enough to come back again. We look forward to having the rest of the "Uncles" and Grandma and Grandpa Einfeldt down for Spring Break in April. While the Uncles were here, I went to Mesa for my college roommate's baby shower. I was her bridesmaid in 2006 just before Paul and I got engaged. She's moving back to Mesa from Texas after her and her husband graduate from Dental School. It'll be fun having her a little closer. She is also due a month after me, so having babies close together will give us an excuse for play-dates.
This past week I hosted preschool at our house. We learned about the letters "R" and "S". On Tuesday we Read Little Red Riding Hood, Ran, colored Rainbows and Racecars, ate Rabbit food (carrots and celery), had cRaisens and Rainbow cookies, ate on Rabbit plates and a Red table cloth. On Thursday we Sang Silly Songs, played with fake Spiders and Snakes, colored Stars and Snakes, ate Snickerdoodles and Sharks and Skittles while watching Sesame Street. This was my last time hosting because the next time I would be hosting is the week before the baby's due. We've really enjoyed having friends over and learning how to share and listen.
Paul spent most of the weekend perfecting the hole, gathering supplies, and starting the wall. I made him stop on Friday so we could go on a much needed date to the Olive Garden and Lowe's. The kids made him stop on Saturday for a picnic at the park and bubbles. I made him stop again that evening to take me to Emergency Room. Yeah, I know...again Molly? Bah! I was getting the kids out of the tub when I had another heart issue. I tried all the things they tell you to get it to come back down. After getting the kids dressed and watching a Shaun the Sheep, I laid on the couch to relax. By then Paul had gotten out of the shower, he noticed that I wasn't my play-on-the-floor self. He buzzed around getting the kids in the car to go for a "drive" while I tried more maneuvers to get my heart rate to normalize. When I determined that I could not get it to go down on my own, I headed to the car where the kids were watching the Incredibles. We called neighbor friends who had watched the kids the night before for our date, and they said they would do it again (we owe them BIG). We drove 45 minutes to the nearest ER. When we got there, they were gonna send me to Labor and Delivery because I am obviously ginormously pregnant, but after telling them I wasn't in labor, they determined that someone with a heart rate of 240bmp and almost 35 weeks pregnant was of "up most importance". It took them a while to figure out where to put me. The nurse in charge of the area they put me was having a rough night and kinda yelled at the person who brought me in for bringing a pregnant lady into her area, and that she was too busy to deal with me. It must have been a busy night for her. They finally got me to a bed, got me all hooked up, the doctor came to talk to me and determined that I knew more about what was happening than he did. By this time, Paul was pacing in the waiting room and I was getting a little panicked with the doctor and the nurse who had little knowledge about what was going on. The nurse almost gave me the wrong medicine...yeah, kinda scary. They finally let Paul back, and gave me the right medicine. The third time around isn't as scary...but I'd rather not have to go through this again during this pregnancy. I think my limit is once a pregnancy. My heart restarted, they gave me some fluid, watched me for a couple hours, did a doppler on the baby, and discharged me without further instruction. We'll see if I get any phone calls on Monday from my OB or Cardiologist. I was a little disappointed that the doctor didn't come back in and talk to me. I'm really fine. A little tired...but fine and anxiously awaiting this baby's coming. We got back just as Aislee had finally fallen asleep. Ewan had been asleep for a while, and Olivia was fighting with all her might to stay awake. Once we got home, it didn't take them long to crash. Paul helped me clean the kitchen since we left in such a hurry. We were a little tired too. I was able to sleep in this morning until 8:45a, (thank you Paul!) and lounged about in m PJs until noon. When it happened with the twins, I went into labor two days later, so we're taking things kinda slow, timing contractions, and drinking lots of water. Paul is a good, good husband and father. I hope I didn't scare him too much, even though I know the idea of being a 26 year old widower with four children under the age of three probably crossed his mind a few times last night.

Short and Sweet

2011-03-08T13:35:00.000-08:00

I've been a pretty bad blogger these last couple of weeks. My computer, which is now seven years old, has lost the ability to get recharged. Sad, I know. I haven't been able to load pictures onto Paul's computer successfully, and I haven't really taken very many. Sorry. But, I will do a quick update anyway, and then get some pictures up hopefully this weekend. We'll start with the kiddos. They have recovered well from their sickness. They caught a little cold, but nothing really slows them down. We've been trying to spend a little more time outside to wear them out and the weather has been fantastic! I cannot wait to have a functional backyard! Olivia is approaching the "potty-train" by requesting to sit on it right before bed and when she wakes up. Most of the time nothing really happens, but she's interested. Aislee has shown interest only when Olivia does. We talk about the fact that they can only wear underpants when they've kept their diapers dry for a while. I'm not pushing it, and right now diapers are pretty slick (easy) since they know where they need to go to get changed, and all three of them have messies within 10 minutes of each other. Olivia is in-love with dogs! One of the moms in our preschool has two dogs, and Olivia cannot get enough of Jared and Layla. When I come to get her, she tells me that they are her dogs. One of the other little guys let's me know that NO, they're not her dogs. Aislee has figured out how to turn on and off all the lights and fans. She has also learned to turn their alarm clock off. If we could just get her to stay in her room until her alarm clock goes off...! They're both very excited for the new baby, and often yell, "get out!" "come play" and "my baby!" at my tummy. Ewan is...Ewan. He's figuring out that biting doesn't get him a whole lot but not nice looks from Mommy. He's a little book-worm and loves to be read to for nap time and bed time. He really likes yogurt and salmon (not together). He would spend all day outside with Dad if he could. He likes to give my tummy kisses and hugs. He's very good at hugging and cuddling. He really needs a brother someday so he won't think hair bows, pink tights, and baby strollers are normal. He gets pretty bummed when I'm putting Sunday dresses on the girls and have to tell him that he is a boy. Paul is staying busy with backyard planning, work, and keeping me as unstressed as possible. He's been very good at baths, dishes, floor playing, and toy room pick up. He doesn't like me reminding him how long (short) we have until the baby comes. As for me, bending over is a little more uncomfortable. Not being able to get close to the counter has made washing dishes, wiping counters, and cooking a little more difficult. My shirt always seems to get pretty wet after doing the dishes and I'm amazed at the things that I rub up against. I really shouldn't be surprised at any of this...I believe I was much bigger while carrying twins, but I could be mistaken! The last ultrasound indicated that this baby is growing very well. Everything looks good and right on schedule. I'm hoping for a week and a half early...hoping!
I hope to get pictures on as soon as I figure it all out. Maybe I can convince Paul that I need a new laptop for our Anniversary...

Cabin Fever!

2011-02-20T11:03:00.000-08:00

Yes, we've had Cabin Fever these last couple of weeks! I know, I know...I talk about the wonderful weather down here in sunny Arizona, and we really have had nice weather, but it's hard to enjoy the sunshine when you're not feeling so hot. We did have a freeze for a day or two, but then our temps were back up in the 70s. A freeze in Arizona? Yes, our pipes froze in the middle of the night a few weeks ago. We had no water until 1pm. It's a good thing the only form of "food storage" we have are gallon sized apple juice containers full of water. We have a lot of them because we go through a gallon a week! The schools were shut down due to sanitation issues, but work was not canceled. So, we bundled up for the day, watched movies, ate soup, and waited for the water. I was glad to get a warm shower in. I can't seem to get my day going until after the shower.

The following week I was having some pregnancy issues. Paul was kind enough to take the morning off so the girls could go to preschool and I could rest. Ewan got to hang out with Daddy while I took a nap and waited for things to pass and doctors to call. Everything's fine, nothing really to report. I had my appointment that Friday. I was measuring a little small, so we will have a follow-up ultrasound at the end of the month. Hopefully, we'll get a better idea of the gender of the baby (for planning purposes). We're excited to be counting down, although it seems we have a lot to get done before baby #4 arrives!

After returning home from Church that Sunday evening, the kids were sick! Paul had gone to a meeting a few minutes before the explosions happened. We were up most of the night doing laundry, giving baths, and watching UP. Paul went to work, but came home after lunch so I could lie down. The baby I was in-charge of didn't go back to sleep until 4:45am and was up with a new load of laundry for me to do at 7. We skipped preschool for the week, 'cause I'm pretty sure none of the other moms wanted to do ten loads of laundry in 48 hours. I'm positive I washed everything everybody owns twice! Maybe I should buy more clothes, towels, blankets, and sheets...or, I should have just let everyone run around in diapers and wrapped them up in towels. However, my kids don't really like not being covered (weird, for toddlers, I know!) Luckily, by Wednesday the kids were all feeling much better, and Paul and I have not "caught" whatever it was. We quarantined ourselves for the week, with the occasional trip to the backyard to get some much needed fresh air. We've suffered Cabin Fever all week, but we look forward to a healthy week with trips to the park, preschool, more restful nights, and less Clorox Clean-up!

We pretended like we were doggies and played under the table.

We sat in strollers a lot so that we could feel mobile, even though we weren't going anywhere.

More strollers.

Ewan is a lot like Paul. He loves to carry a book around. His favorites right now are Brown Bear, Brown Bear and How Do I Love you.

Aislee posed for pictures.

We had heart-shaped french toast on Tuesday (our first meal since Sunday).

We dressed up like Mommy.

We watched Wallace and Gromit:The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. And then we pretended to be rabbits.

Ewan thought it was especially funny.

We lounged on the floor and sucked on Ring-Pops. Blue-raspberry may not have been the best idea for Olivia.

Ewan loves to read.

Showing off our colored tongues. Paul got them Ring-Pops for Valentine's Day, but we waited to eat them. They crashed pretty hard for naps that day once the sugar wore off.


We rode the brooms and danced around with "hats".

100!

2011-01-30T19:03:00.000-08:00

I thought that my 100th post might be something kind of important, but it's not. This is just an update on us. We're just hanging out, trying to stay busy, and enjoying the warmth of AZ winters. I started doing a little preschool with a few of the ladies in our neighborhood for the girls. It's twice a week for an hour and a half. The girls enjoying spending time with other kids, doing craft things, and learning all the sounds of the alphabet. Ewan and I enjoy spending time together. I've figured out that it's a lot easier to take one to Wal-Mart. The twins are starting to show a little interest in potty-training. Olivia has been a little more interested than Aislee, but I think we'll wait a little longer. I don't want to push them, or stress myself out. Diapers aren't so bad. My mom says, " Life is too short to spend so much time sitting on the edge of the tub." I think she's right, so we'll take it a little slow. The twins love being outside with Paul while he works on the trampoline hole. He's done quite a bit of it, and he's only worked on it for one weekend. Paul is enjoying the winters here also. We want to get the yard a little more functional before he starts the master's program in January of 2012. He got into the Johns Hopkins program that Raytheon does. We're very excited, but a little nervous having four little ones and a busy Daddy. Ewan is just getting bigger and figuring out life. He likes to follow the twins around wherever they go. He likes action and being busy. He'd do a very good job coloring if he'd stop putting every crayon in his mouth. He's still our good sleeper and eater. Ewan's working on not biting the twins when they get him frustrated. We've had to have a few Family Home Evenings on biting and what to do when Ewan bites. The twins say, "Ouch baby. Teeth or for eating." This pregnancy has been a lot easier than the last two. I still take medicine for the morning sickness, but it's really not as bad. Smells get me sometimes, and I look forward to being able to exercise. I have to pick paint colors for the house soon so that I can get some projects checked off my list before the baby comes. It's hard to pick a color that you're gonna have to look at every day for a while! The baby is fine as far as we know. We're still not quite sure what we're having, but we'll take the ultrasound and call the baby a "her" for now. I haven't had an appointment for a while (almost 8 weeks) because my OB had to reschedule due to a death in the family, and then rescheduled me again. My next appointment is February 11th. Other than playing the waiting game, we're doing pretty well. Here are some pics of the latest adventures at the Burkinshaw household.

Helping me clean the house.

Riding the broom.

Ewan always smiles when he sees I have the camera.

Bath time crazy hair (Olivia).

We were telling them to cover themselves for the picture. They did a pretty good job.

Ewan is sleep eating while we drove.

He loves oatmeal!

The hole. It's actually a little deeper now. They really like the help him, but I only let them really get out there when he's been out for a while and I need him to come inside. It doesn't take long for him to not get a whole lot done and want to get everyone inside.

Saturday morning bubble bath in Mom and Dad's tub.

We got these chairs before Christmas so they could sit on the porch and watch Paul shovel. They like to watch movies in 'em.

26 weeks and 4 days. Just counting down!

Motherhood

2011-01-22T12:22:00.000-08:00

This topic has been on my mind for the last week or so. Paul and I were asked to speak in Sacrament Meeting this coming Sunday, and our topic is "our divine nature and destiny" stated from The Family: A Proclamation to the World. Since, I feel that our divine nature and destiny is to create families, I'll be speaking on the divine role of mothers. I talked to my mom about it a lot because she is a mother of ten, and always has very good insight. She's also spoken many times and usually has a talk that fits right in with the topic. Being a mother does have it's challenges, especially when so many people think you're absolutely crazy for doing it. But, it has so many more rewards. While I was researching, actually I was blog stalking a friend of mine, I found an interesting article she posted about a woman who is obsessed with reading "Mormon Mommy Blogs". I found it quite fascinating that this woman; atheist, single, "overly educated" as she put it, would be so interested with the everyday in-and-outs of these stay-at-home Mormon women. I highly doubt that anyone outside of our circle of friends and acquaintances read my blog. Anyway, this women talked about these "Mormon Mommies" with super-attentive husbands, Gap model children, perfect homes, and crafts up the wazoo. I will admit that I have a very attentive husband, but I'm glad when my kids are clean, my feet don't stick the kitchen floor, and I don't have any hand-crafts around the house at present. What makes the stay-at-home mom so fascinating? In this article, it seemed that this woman was saying that women who choose to stay-at-home are uneducated, unable to do things outside of the home, or trying to fit in a cultural norm. I read many of the responses to her article, and found that most of them were feeling a little resentful at her article and how she portrayed "picture perfect" mothers who probably took large amounts of prescription drugs to compete with one another. I had to laugh! Most of the stay-at-home moms that I know and associate with are well-educated, highly-motivated, inventive women who try their very best to do what they love to do; be a mommy. There houses aren't always perfect, their children may have peanut butter on their shirts, she may have to turn off a football game to get her husband to make eye-contact with her, but she's doing the best she can, and are usually too busy with the household of children to compete with anyone. This may be silly to blog about, especially since I don't usually share my thoughts on controversial things on my blog (maybe that's why no one comments...), but I'd been thinking about my role as a mother for a while, and had some thoughts. It's really what I always wanted to do. I did have a Plan B. I wanted to be a pediatrician, but Paul found me during my junior year at BYU, in the midst of O-chem, Functional Anatomy, and Nutrition Through the Life-Cycles, classes I use every day! Although there may be days when I wonder what my life would be like if I hadn't meant the sweetest, kindest, cutest guy to sweep me off my feet, I'm so grateful for the opportunity to be a mother, to be surrounded by good women who are mothers, to have examples such as my mother-in-law, sisters-in-law, mother and very capable sisters that help guide me through the chocolate stains, peanut buttered couches, and apple juice spills. The influence of mothers (women) reaches far and wide throughout the world. Who are we without our mothers, those good women who nurture, love and care for us inside and outside our home? A friend of my mom's posted this about my late sister, " I remember when Tessa and Wes were in Nursery. I thought Tessa was the cutest and smartest girl ever, not to mention, very well-behaved! Then I found out why. Megan was patiently and lovingly teaching her in the hallway at church. I was very impressed and I wished I could be more like her in teaching my own child. She was a great example to me even though I didn't know her very well." We never know who we can influence as a mother, especially when no one is watching or when we think no one is reading. I hope that woman who wrote that article continues to stalk those blogs, maybe someday she'll see us a little differently when she becomes a mother.

My mom and the twins right before I had Ewan.

Paul's Mom dancing with Ewan.

The Einfeldts

Mary (my sister-in-law), Blair and their three girls.

Arianne (my sister), Adam, and their five kids.

Me, Mom, Grandma Crimin at the twins' blessing.

African Safari

2011-01-15T19:07:00.000-08:00

Entering the Safari.

Olivia and the giant turtle

Walking with the elephants.

That's probably not the best place to be...

or there.

They got to ride the elephant.

They tried to ride the large lizards.

Ewan just enjoyed walking around.

Aislee petting the small turtles.

Cheese!

Olivia petting the turtles.

We stopped to pet the lion pride. They were busy drinking at the river, so the girls hopped on for a ride.

They weren't too fond of the hippo. He was standing on a small turtle.

Paul and Ewan.

Olivia liked to ride everything! She got on the pig all by herself.

Paul wanted Ewan to join.

Ewan tried to escape early.

Olivia couldn't get up to the Big Horn Sheep, but she kept asking to ride one.

Since the weather has been so nice here (70s), we decided to go to the safari trail to see the animals. It was a little too warm for a jacket, but the twins insisted on wearing one. We walked down the trail and met the various African (or not-so-African) animals that we came across. It was kind of fun to see the kids' reactions to the animals. Olivia didn't seem scared at all. Aislee and Ewan on the other hand were a little apprehensive, but Aislee came around very quickly after she realized that they were not real and could not hurt her.

Bushel and a Peck

2011-01-12T18:41:00.000-08:00

It's interesting how things stick with you even after years, and years. As I rocked Ewan to sleep tonight and sang the same song I sing to him every night, I couldn't help but think of my sister, Megan. Actually, every time I sing it, I think of Megan. "I love you a bushel and a peck." I remember sitting in her apartment in Georgia, listening to her sing to her little guy, Wesley. She would sing this song over and over, and leave out certain words that he would fill in. Wesley knew that his mommy loved him more than anything. As Megan added to her family, she continued to sing this song to her kids. I remember her singing it for Tessa, and then Krissy. It's a very simple song. It probably doesn't really make sense to many of us anymore because we don't use such measurements, but the message it contains; "I love you more than you can imagine." It's just interesting how such little things, little songs stick with you. I can't imagine singing that song with out picturing Wesley and Megan; Wesley filling in the "peck" and giving "hugs around the neck." I hope my kids know that I love them more than they can imagine.

The ten of us before Rand left on his mission, and a few months before Megan past away.

Arianne, Megan and Me

Megan at Lake Powell with Wesley, Tessa, and baby Krissy.

Megan keeping Tessa safe.

Sweet baby Krissy.

Tessa Lou

Wesley (Westifer)

Wesley and Uncle Joel (I just love this picture)

The four older kids, Christmas of '86.

Christmas of '85.

Resolving

2011-01-10T09:57:00.000-08:00

Since it's a new year, and last year I didn't post our New Year's resolutions until February, I figured it was a good idea to do them now. We'll do a recap of last year to see how well we did and what we need to do this year.

Ewan (2010):

Sleep through the night
Crawl and walk
Keep up with the sisters
Eat crackers
Try apple juice
Avoid getting sat on by the sisters

What has he done?
He's our best sleeper and would probably sleep longer if the twins didn't come in and wake him up.
He's a walking machine! He keeps up with everyone pretty well.
He eats plenty of crackers and loves apple juice!
He gets sat on sometimes, but he's big enough to give it right back.

Ewan (2011)

Grow more hair
Start talking
Be the best big brother ever
Eat with a fork and spoon (and not dump eating bowl on the floor)

Aislee (2010):

wake up happy from naps
go down the slide all by herself
go to nursery with a smile
sleep in a big girl bed
give more hugs and kisses to Ewan and Livi

What has she done?
We still need to work on waking up happier from naps, but we're getting better.
She can climb up the ladder and go down any slide all by herself!
She goes to nursery pretty well as long as Mommy doesn't take her.
She sleeps very well in a big girl bed
She is a very good hugger and kisser.
Aislee (2011):

Get potty-trained
Eat a whole meal without saying, "not this"
Do a summersault on the trampoline
Continue to give hugs and kisses

Olivia (2010):

only give hugs and kisses to Aislee and Ewan
learn to say "okay, Mom" instead of "no, no no"
share her toys
sleep in a big girl bed
eat dinner without having to be semi-naked

What has she done?
She's also a very good hugger and kisser.
She says, "Okay, Mom" and thanks me when I change her diaper.
She's learning to be a better sharer. She knows she has to "trade" if she wants a toy.
She sleeps very well in her big girl bed.
They eat pretty well fully-dressed. It's more for my convenience if we take their shirts off
Olivia (2011):

Get potty-trained
Eat some vegetables
Pick up play-room
Continue to give more hugs and kisses
Be the best BIGGEST sister

Molly (2010):

run a half-marathon in May and then keep running
go on a real date with Paul at least once a month
read more books
not stress out about little things
give more hugs and kisses

What did she do?
I didn't get to run the half-marathon in May because we were in Utah saying goodbye to Uncle Joel. But, I ran one in September.
We really tried to go on a real date once a month. We're hoping to be better this year.
I finished the Harry Potter series and a few John Grisham books.
I stress and Paul has come to understand that I just bottle the stress. Being pregnant, I try not to stress too much about stuff, 'cause that's when contractions happen. It's a work in progress!
Who can't give more hugs and kisses?
Molly (2011):

Potty-train in February
Paint three rooms before the baby comes, and have the rest of the house painted by the end of the year
Learn how to sew
Run half-marathon in September
A real date once a month with Paul

Paul (2010):

help Molly train for a half-marathon
find a babysitter for dates
play more
teach Ewan how to catch and kick balls
give more hugs and kisses
take a nap

What did he do?
He was very helpful with training. He would watch the kids while I'd go for long runs on the weekends. He also lifted weights with me three times a week, and still does.
We're working on finding a babysitter for dates. It's kinda hard with three very little ones!
He's really good at playing with the kids.
Ewan can kick and throw. Catching is hard!
He probably needs more than one nap this year!
Paul (2011):

Exercise at least three times a week
Do one date a week (even if it's feeding the kids, putting them to bed, and then eating a quiet dinner together), and a real date (planned, paid for and paired off) once a month
Have the trampoline in by March 17th, and the backyard pretty functional by the end of the year
Help Molly train for, yet another, half-marathon after baby comes

Well, there you have it. Our goals for the next year. I don't think we did too bad this year. We still have a lot to work on. We're grateful for the opportunity to reevaluate things and start anew. Good luck to everyone with their New Year's Resolutions. May you be productive and happy!

O-K-L-A-H-O-M-A

2011-01-06T15:30:00.000-08:00

We left for Oklahoma at 1:30pm on Tuesday, stopped in Tucamcari for the night, and arrived in Bartlesville Wednesday afternoon. We spent two weeks with Paul's family, and enjoyed every minute! We got to meet Baby Caleb, play with Sam, Spencer, Sabrina, Grace, and Benson. The girls really took to Sabrina and Grace. They had a lot of fun doing "big girl" stuff. Hopefully, potty-training will be in their near future!

Christmas morning

Aislee with her gift from Grandma and Grandpa

We were the first ones up since we get up so early every day! We were surprised that Aunt Sarah and Aunt Jenny had to be woken up!

The kids got pillow pets. Olivia had a hard time choosing which one she wanted. I think she's settled on the bumble bee.

We also got The New Testament animated dvds. We now have more appropriate Sunday movies. I was getting tired of Cinderella!

Paul serenaded us on the piano. Ewan helped. I could listen to Paul play all day! We should really get a piano sometime. Maybe next year...

The grandkids enjoyed dancing with Grandma and Grandpa. We introduced them to "I've got a new way to walk".

The twins get a little crazy sometimes!

We went to the church and played Two-step, Slaughter-Ball and volleyball. The grandparents were kind enough to watch the kids while the adults threw Nerf balls at each other in the gym.

We also went bowling at the Phillips rec center. After, we shot around in the gym. My game isn't what it once was!

But Paul's is!

We took our cousin, Anderson's friend Flat Stanley around Bartlesville.

He enjoyed playing Ring-Around-The-Rosies

Watching Mulan II

and going to church.

The kids loved playing upstairs with Spencer's toys.

He was a very good sharer.

We went to the Oklahoma Aquarium in Tulsa with Spencer and Grandpa.

They loved looking at the Sting-Rays

Making fishy-faces at the fish.

and Finding Nemo. They had a tank with little clown fish and one that looks like Dori.

They didn't really touch the Sting-Ray even though they were sticking their hands in the tank. Every time one would get close enough, they'd pull their hands our of the water.

Spencer was Olivia's partner in crime. They were really quiet one evening. When Kathleen and Paul went looking for them, they found them in Grandma's bathroom. They found her make-up!

It took a few make-up-removing wipes to get Olivia's face back to normal.

Christmas

2011-01-06T14:38:00.000-08:00

Paul and I decided to put the kids' Christmas present together before we left for Oklahoma. Grandma and Grandpa Einfeldt got them a walk-in kitchen. It wasn't very hard to put together, and it was kind of fun getting it all set up and ready for them as a surprise. I'm hoping it will keep them in their kitchen while I'm in mine. We got Olivia a play doctor's bag, Aislee some more blocks, and Ewan a toy broom.

He's so handy!

It has "granite" counter tops and "stainless steel" appliances.

At first, they didn't even notice the kitchen and went straight for the wrapped packages on the table. We didn't do a tree this year, but we're planning on one next year.

Aislee's blocks

Olivia's doctor's bag

I couldn't find a broom at Wal-mart or our Toys-R-Us, but we found one in OK. We let him open their quiet toys for church.

It's just their size! They played all that morning while I packed for the trip. I now know that I say, "Come on. It's ready" a lot. Aislee kept calling for me to come and eat.

December in Arizona

2010-12-19T13:11:00.000-08:00

Things have been a little busy this month. It seems that as Christmas approaches, things get busier and busier! We're looking forward to visiting family, and enjoying some time together. We've really enjoyed winter in Arizona so far. We spend mornings playing at the park in short-sleeves, weekends having picnics, and evenings sitting on the porch watching shooting stars and drinking hot chocolate (vanilla for me). We had our ultrasound on the 17th to see how our little person is doing. Things look good! We're excited to open all the boxes of little GIRL clothes we've had stored. This little girl will be able to have a "blow-out" and replace her outfit with the same one! We have two names on a list...hopefully we'll figure this out before she arrives! We're now counting down! YAY!
Here are a few pictures. Sorry, they're a little mixed up!

This is baby #4 at 14 weeks

"Hi Mom!"

This is between 20 and 21 weeks. This ultrasound wasn't very good. I have admit, I'm not completely convinced this baby is a girl...She tech was really bad!

Picnic with pudding. Ewan likes pudding!

They love blocks and towers!

Kisses!

Aislee is leaning on Olivia for balance. Like mother like daughter!

Ewan is my big helper! He loves the broom!

He finds it every time I open the laundry room.

Aislee is a good buddy!

We color a lot!

There he is again with that broom. Maybe he'll get a little on for Christmas...

Playing on the floor with Daddy.

He's gonna be a balla!

Olivia's right handed.

Ewan catching some air.

Aislee going in to kiss Ewan.

Olivia catching air.

Olivia again.

Our picnic.

Pudding!

We do a babysitting exchange with another couple in our ward. They have four, but kept their youngest. We got to see what it's like to have six under 7. Popcorn, apple juice, and Kung-Fu Panda keeps everyone happy!

More pudding!

Paul and Aislee have races around the kitchen while pushing Ewan and Olivia in the stroller. Cheap entertainment!

What's in your tummy?

2010-11-23T08:55:00.000-08:00

We've been talking a lot about tummies lately. We talk about putting good things in our tummies like apples, carrots, noodles, bread, milk, cheese, apple juice, eggs, chicken, fish, and rice. The girls can tell you the things they have in their tummies after a meal. It's kinda fun to ask Olivia if she has a monkey in her tummy. She looks at me funny (the you're-so-silly-mommy-look) and says, "No...monkeys not in tummy." While we talk about things we put in our tummies that make us feel good, and things that we may put in our tummies that make us feel not-so-good, the twins like to show their tummies and point to where the good things are. They understand that when they eat the good things (sometimes, I just want them to eat something!), they're able to play and run around. When they eat not-so-good things, they just want to lay all over Mommy, and it makes her very tired. We talk about Ewan's tummy too, and all the good things he has in his tummy. Aislee is usually the first to lift his shirt and say, "Baby milk!" He drinks a lot of milk! We talk about Daddy's tummy and what he eats while he's at work. It's usually left-overs from the night before, and maybe a couple cookies. They're starting to figure out what's in Mommy's tummy. It's not just food...

It's a BABY! Yes, we are expecting #4! We're very excited and looking forward to the arrival of this little one. We're due May 3rd. Ewan is very interested with babies at Church, and the girls' baby dolls. He gives them hugs and kisses and says, "ba ba". He's going to be a very good big brother. He also needs a buddy to help him when the girls gang up on him! When we told the girls that there was a baby in my tummy, they both started lifting up my shirt and trying to see where it was. I told them that the baby was stuck inside. Olivia leaned her head down to my stomach and yelled, "Get out! Get out baby!" This pregnancy has gone a little bit better than the last two. I was able to run the half-marathon at 8 weeks without too much trouble. My OB put me on the same medicine because I'm having a hard time drinking water and keeping some things down. I'm just kinda tired and 8 o'clock doesn't seem to come fast enough some nights! I'm very grateful for a husband who can get the girls to bed while I rest! I'm in charge of the baby who puts himself to sleep (muwahhaha!). He's also very good about getting up with them in the middle of the night and the early, early mornings! We're a little nervous about 4 in 2 1/2 years, but they will be such good helpers and buddies, it's also exciting! Like we said earlier, it's just gonna get busier!

Ewan McGrewan

2010-11-14T15:34:00.000-08:00

You've had a birthday, shout hooray!

We're gonna sing to you today!

One year older and wiser too!

Happy birthday, to you!

After he had licked off all the frosting.

Why not just go head first!?!

Ewan is one! It's amazing how time flies when you're busy. It feels like just yesterday we brought him home to meet the girls. Since yesterday was his special day, I'll kinda of introduce you to our little man. I've told many people that he is the perfect baby. That sounds funny, but he is. Ewan slept through the night at 3 months, he's always been a good eater, and is relatively easy-going. He's starting to become a little pickier now that he's learned he doesn't have to open his mouth for everything mom tries to feed him. Ewan has been walking for about a month. He loves following the girls around the house as they push strollers. He's really my little buddy and will come and sit with me whenever I'm on the floor. He likes to be held when I'm in the kitchen 'cause he knows I'll give him some food to keep him happy while I'm cooking or cleaning. Naps and bedtime are pretty slick with this little guy. I'll rock him for a few minutes and lay him in his crib. He may cry for a minute, but he's usually out within 3. Ewan loves spending time with Paul. He gets pretty sad when Paul leaves in the morning, and when he hears the garage door open, he heads straight for the door. He gives good hugs. He's learning kisses. His word is "uh-oh", which is more because I say it a lot to the girls than to him. Ewan really doesn't get into a lot of trouble, or maybe it's the fact the sisters seem to be the ones doing it first and he's just there...? I love how Ewan almost always has a smile on his face. He get s big grin when I say, "Ewan McGrewan, what you doin'?" and then comes running over to me. Aislee has started saying it with me. Ewan loves to be outside. We don't have much of a yard yet, but he'll stand at the door's window, gazing out at the open lot for quite some time. We have been so lucky to have such a wonderful, little boy in our family. The twins haven't quite figured out what to call him, but they often fight over "my baby" and who gets to give him a hug or a kiss. They're always wondering where he is if he's not in the room. Ewan is a joy in our home. We can't wait to see what his second year will bring!

Ashes. Ashes. We all fall down!

2010-11-01T09:46:00.000-07:00

The kids like to have Paul play "Ring-Around-The-Rosies" before bed. It's pretty fun to watch. Ewan enjoys it, until the end.

Fall and Fancy Free

2010-10-28T13:57:00.000-07:00

I will admit that Halloween has never been my favorite holiday. I don't really like dressing up. I've never been a big fan of chocolate candy. And, I just don't like the whole ambiance of death and spooky stuff. Don't get me wrong, I am quite a fan of Harry Potter. But, Halloween was never something I got excited about. I like dressing my kids up, because they're adorable all dressed up. Not to put a damper on other people's fun for the holidays; to each his own. I do like Fall. I like long sleeved shirts and sweatshirts and not feeling like I'm gonna die if we're outside after 10am. So, Fall is good. We haven't gone out much lately because we've been having pretty early mornings which makes our nap schedule hard. Ewan has a morning nap around 8:30-9. The girls have been waking up at 5am, so they're ready for a nap at 11. And then Ewan takes his afternoon nap at like 1pm. Needless to say, I don't get much alone time right now. Today, however, the girls didn't fall asleep until 1. Kinda throws off our night time schedule, but I'm still gonna try to put them down around 7:30. Anyway, life is busy with three kids under three. I'm told it's only going to get busier.

Ladies in my parents ward gave me some ribbons to make bows for the girls. I have yet to make any bows because they have so much fun just playing with them. Today, we were ninjas for a good hour. Olivia is sporting a green one. Aislee wouldn't hold still long enough for me to catch her as a purple ninja.

I am trying to wean Ewan, so my nursing bibs and pillow are available more often now for play. They have babies in there somewhere.

Aislee woke up first from a nap and wanted to have a picture next to Ewan.

Then, Olivia woke up and wanted in on the fun.

They also wanted their feet featured.

I went in to check on them one afternoon and found them in the weirdest positions. Olivia was twirling her hair in her sleep.

I know, I'm not very creative. This was the same costume as last year, but they fit perfectly in them this year. We went to our new ward's party for a few minutes.

We didn't stay long, but Olivia got some fruit snacks while we were walking around.

It's hard to get them to hold still!

They really like to hold hands in the car. They are the best of friends, most of the time.

Ewan was Winnie the Pooh. I thought this shot was very Pooh-ish since he's trying to pull off his socks while still standing.

Isn't he cute?

I originally wanted to do Harold and the Purple Crayon, but I couldn't find a purple crayon and I was too late to make one. So, maybe next year.

In between diapers

2010-10-20T12:50:00.000-07:00

Well, we're all moved in and settling into our new home. Thanks to family, we were able to get a lot of those annoying move-in things taken care of without a lot of fuss. Paul's parents drove back from Utah with me and stayed a few extra days to help install ceiling fans, kitchen hardware, and blinds. They also let Paul and I have a date, which was much needed.The trip to Utah went well. I finished the half-marathon with my dad and sister (Arianne got 2nd place and rocked the St. George marathon a few weeks later). I was a little sore and probably looked kinda funny walking around for the next couple days, but it was a good experience and I hope to do it next year! I got to attend my friend, Kamber's wedding. It was beautiful, and we're very excited to get to know Shane better. Paul packed and moved everything while I was gone which was very nice of him. I couldn't have packed while I was home with three kids unpacking faster than I pack! We've enjoyed more space, being closer to a more kid-friendly park, and the extra time we get with Paul now that we're 20-30mins closer! With all the extra space, Ewan had to learn how to walk pretty quickly in order to keep with the twins running around. He was getting so frustrated watching them run past him while he was crawling to wherever they were. He's not that fast, but he's getting there. The twins are adjusting well...kinda, they're still having a hard time staying in their bed the whole night. If we could get that taken care of, life would be just fantastic! We're looking forward to the cooler weather (we love Arizona falls and winters).

The house that...Lennar built!

2010-09-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

Things happen pretty quick, we've decided. We started really looking for a house about a month and a half ago. We've been looking online for months, but we got together with a Realtor to look at homes. I've had my favorite for several months, but it has a lot of financial issues, so we decided to let it go. Our Realtor took us to some homes we'd seen online with a little more yard than most. We really liked them. They're being built and will be done in the middle of this month. We chose one we really liked, and started the process of really looking at it. Soon, we had made an offer and signed our lives away. Yes, we signed our lives away for the next thirty years. How scary is that?!? After a few cranberry juice floats for Paul and box of chewy candy for me, we're okay. This house is brand new, sits on a 1/3 an acre and is 25 mins closer to work! We're very excited! It's officially ours. We got the keys yesterday. Well, Paul got the keys. I'm still in Utah.

Here's the view from the back porch

It's on the corner lot.

View to the southeast corner from the porch.

Garage view. 3 car garage for all of Paul's tools and such...!

Master garden tub.

Master Shower.

His and Her vanities.

Master bedroom has a door to the backyard.

Aislee in the first bedroom closest to the master.

The third bedroom.

Kids' bathroom.

Hallway view from the fourth bedroom.

Fourth bedroom at the front of the house.

View of the hallway from the first bedroom.

Great room.

View of the great room from the front entry.


More great room from the formal dining room which we will not use as such.	.

Girls playing in the bonus room off the kitchen.


View from the bonus room to the kitchen. We'll use it as a play room.

Bonus room from the kitchen.

Eat-in kitchen.

Kitchen.

Utility room.

My stove. Pretty awesome.

Kitchen from utility room.

Sink and dishwasher

View of kitchen from eating area.

My favorite part of the house.

It's been a while

2010-09-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

Ewan doesn't really enjoy this, but the twins do. They love to stick the foamy bath toys onto his back. It's pretty funny.

Aislee is reading a really good book. Check out the title (my mom wrote it).

It was a warm afternoon and we needed Popsicles. Ewan thoroughly enjoyed them.

We also played around with the water table. This is the first time I've let Ewan participate. He was a much happier camper than before.

Just chillin' in their diapers.

He's just so happy!

This is why vacuums were invented! They like popcorn, but it's really hard to keep them from dumping it on the floor. They also think it's pretty cool how the vacuum makes it disappear!

More popcorn.

Paul put Ewan in the stroller. Aislee (my little mother) spent most of the morning pushing him around. He enjoyed it until she made a sharp turn.

Olivia wanted in on the action!

I'm glad he's easy-going. He really has to be with his crazy older sisters.

This is Aislee in her element. She wakes up and goes right for the blocks. I think she may be our little engineer.

The last couple weeks have gone by pretty fast. We've been pretty busy with lots of stuff and making lots of scary, life-changing decisions. But, we're adults right? And, it's about time! Anyway, we've been driving back and forth from our newest purchase, cruising Lowe's, and contemplating what life is going to bring. We're also looking forward to going to Utah this week to see family, run a race, and relax (sorta). Paul will be driving up with me on Thursday. My race is on Saturday. He flies home Monday. I'm staying for a wedding the next week. His parents will be in Utah and are going to drive back to Tucson with me. Hopefully, Paul will have everything packed and moved. He can get a lot more done while I'm gone than if I were home, with everybody.

This and That

2010-08-26T10:11:00.000-07:00

We've been doing a little bit of this and that the last few weeks. I've posted quite a big the last couple of days, but I'm trying to catch up on stuff.

We had Elliot over while his parents were packing up their apartment to move. It was fun to have another buddy to play with. We're sad to see him go.

We danced.

And played with baby dolls.

We danced some more.

This is what happens to Aislee around 8am when she's up at 2:30. Unfortunately for Paul and I, we still have to do stuff like go to work and take care of other kids. Bummer...

We do a babysitting exchange with another couple who has twins and a 4 year old.

Paul likes to make faces at people. He's so attractive!

We got some balls out for them to play with. We needed them to run around and get some of the energy out!

And then we watched a few Sesame Street videos on youtube. Old school Sesame Street is way better than Elmo's World! We especially like clips of Kermit singing the African Alphabet, James Taylor's "Jelly man Kelly" and Ernie's "I don't want to live on the moon".

Who doesn't love Sesame Street from the 80's?

Ewan striking a pose!

We went to the pool a couple times last week. We were hot!

The girls are doing really well with the arm floaties. They love the independence, and so do we! Ewan wishes he could join them most of the time!

They do get a little nervous when a wave comes in and takes them a little further from Paul or me.

We played with the water table, and the blinds. This is "peek-a-boo".

Ewan's such a kid. He's never been very good with bottles, but he takes a sippy very well.

Since it's been so hot, he really enjoys some cool apple juice or water.

Rah, Rah, Rah for Rocket!

2010-08-25T12:54:00.000-07:00

When I decided that I was going to make a cake for the twins, I googled for the Rocket Cake. I thought it'd be fun to have something that they would recognize. I came across a few blogs that had the cake, but nobody really showed pictures or steps on how to make it. Maybe it's because it's super easy for them, and I stressed out about it not looking the way the picture did. I decided that I would take some pictures of the process so that maybe somebody as non-crafty as I am would be able to make the cake (even better). I had a lot of help from a creative husband. My cake wasn't perfect, but it somewhat resembled Rocket...!

I used a large, round pan for the bottom. It took two cake mixes. I baked it for 50 mins.
I used a football shaped pan for the dome top. It only took one cake mix and about an hour to cake. (sorry no picture, I was getting ready for church while it was baking) Since we're non-chocolate eaters, we used FunFetti, but any cake mix works.

Paul, being the engineer that he is, carved the cakes into rocket-shapes.

We put it on a large cutting board because it didn't fit under my cake holder.

You can see how he slanted the front of the football and shortened the back of the round piece.

Paul did the blue, while I mixed the red frosting. I used non-tasting red food dye. It's not the super market food coloring, but the high powered stuff you get at Jo Anns. The grocery store stuff doesn't get white frosting red enough.

We used some of the left-over ends for the engine part of Rocket on the back and just covered them with frosting.

We made a little yellow frosting for the lights, and frosting bag and tip for the window pane.

There's Rocket! Maybe for Ewan we'll just make a nice football or something.

We're Two!

2010-08-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

We celebrated a momentous occasion at our house yesterday! The twins turned two! This day marks a new era in their lives. They're no longer lap children on flights. We can't get them in for free at the museums. They can now take vitamins, if you know how to actually get them to take the vitamins, let me know. They can no longer fit into 18month clothes. As far as celebrations, we went to Stake Conference in new dresses, we opened presents while skyping with Grandma Stacey and Grandpa Jeff, and then we had a few friends over for Rocket Cake.

As you can see, they really are two! They can't hold still for five seconds!

This was a struggle!

Olivia and me.

Ewan, Olivia and me.

Paul and the girls. He was making noises so that they would smile. I think he did a pretty good job.

They were really ready to go!

They found their new coloring books for Church. I think I colored in them more than they did!

This is supposed to be Rocket from Little Einsteins.

Paul was my big helper with the cake. I made the cakes before Stake Conference, since we were up at 5:30. While the kids napped, we assembled and frosted. He's fantastic!

Getting sung to.

Blowing out the candle with some help.

We had three sets of twins, 8 two and under, and all together 11 under 5 for the party. Oh, and two due November and December.

These are the girls eating cake. We had a set of boy twins and their older brother and Ewan to make up the boys.

These are afghans made for the girls when they were first born. We told them apart with the colors; a purple baby and a pink baby.

Their new strollers! Very exciting.

We got another stroller from Parker and Christine. So, we have one for friends to come over!

Happy birthday Olivia and Aislee. We love you! We are so glad you came to our family. We look forward to many, many more birthdays!