The Faulconer Family

So much!!!!

2011-07-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

I am a blog neglecting fool. I haven't posted in so long, and the worst part is I have so much to post about! The best adventure in the last few months has been the purchase of our first home! we're all moved in, and I am so excited to show the house off to anyone who wants to see it, so seriously, pop by anytime:0)

Our house, in the middle of our street.

Final walk through day!!!!

Backyard. (part of it, at least.)

Big sideyard... adds a lot to the lots sq footage.

My first encounter with my new fridge!

The papers are signed... We are HOMEOWNERS!!!!

Me and my beautiful new kitchen!!!!

The kids, hitting the slope.

We also took a trip to DisneyLand. (the week before we moved... YIKES!) We had a great week of the best kind of no stress fun. It was just what we had been needing, and it was actually great timing with the move and a mortgage, knowing we wouldn't be taking any more trips anytime soon.

Goofy!

It's official, Emmett may be the only kid in history who does NOT like riding on Daddy's shoulders.

A-moose. (according to Emmett.)

THE shot. I'm probably crying... I cant stand anywhere near that area without getting all "disney-emotional."

this guy's pretty incredible.

Mickey, in his hip-hop gear.

We all really enjoyed the Disney Jr. show at California Adventure. I HIGHLY recommend it for families with little kids.

Sissy helping out. I love looking down and seeing that my kids are holding hands!

Ariel was pretty much the only princess we saw all three days, (They keep those poor girls under lock and key in that stupid princess area, which you have to wait 2 hours to get into. Grrrrr.)
and she was practically SPRINTING away from us!

Waiting for World of Color. Just as awesome as before! (but a LOT wetter.)

Easter fun

2011-04-26T15:03:00.000-07:00

We had a great Easter this year! I was privileged to take part in our stakes presentation of The Savior of the World: His Resurrection. It was such an amazing experience, and I know I will never view Easter in the same way again. It was as though I was really able to put myself in the place of someone who was there to witness the miracle of Christ rising from the tomb. I feel so blessed, and also grateful that my Daughter was able to see it, and appreciate our Savior in a new way!

Sadly, this is the only picture I have of the experience. There's a group page on shutterfly, but I haven't figured out how to work that yet.

The Saturday before Easter we had dinner and an egg hunt with the Bjurstrom's. It's always fun to see how many eggs uncle Kalen will fill...that guy LOVES an egg hunt!!! we had at least 100 this year, and with just 3 kids hunting, it was a BIG haul of candy! We were also able to see our family's new little angel Isabella. She is truly a gift, so precious and tiny!

The last known picture of Emmett with a pacifier... he lost it either during or shortly after the hunt, and I decided that was it! No more phi-phi!!

In the thick of the hunt!

On Easter sunday we celebrated with the Fry side, and had a great dinner and another egg hunt. The BIG surprise was waking to find that someone had EGGED OUR HOUSE!!! There were adorable paper eggs and carrots strewn all around the front yard, and more plastic eggs for the kids to find! So sweet. I saved all the decorations so that next year we can pass it on to someone else. Overall, a great holiday!

Our Easter surprise

I totally forgot to take pictures of the kids until we were about to take OFF their Easter clothes! They aren't quite fresh, but at least I remembered at all!

NEW blog...in addition to this one!

2011-04-21T22:41:00.000-07:00

Everyone check out my new blog for my hair accessories!

www.bloomersandbows.blogspot.com

I promise I'll post a family update soon... There's ALOT to report!

Family Pictures

2011-02-21T16:06:00.000-08:00

We had family pictures taken by my friend Sandi last week, and she did a great job! Seriously, I didn't think we would get one good picture. Between Emmett throwing a tantrum throughout the shoot, and MaryEllen WAY overdoing it on the posing, I was pretty sure there couldn't be any decent shots. I should have had more faith in Sandi! After editing I ended up with a couple of really beautiful family poses, and at least one good shot of each of the kids. The big shocker is that I'm pretty sure Henry has a future in modeling! he was by far the most cooperative, and we have some absolutely gorgeous pictures of him strutting his stuff. Enjoy!

the best family shot.

love the color effect on this one.

my favorite.

Worst by far!

This one reminds me of something out of a catalog.

Just Pictures

2011-02-02T14:26:00.001-08:00

MaryEllen with our tiny tree.

We've opted for a little tree the last couple of years, for Emmett's safety and to save space. I like it just as well as a big one!

Henry Finally earned his Sheriff Woody doll and is potty trained! Yay!!!!

Brian in his big huge knee immobilizer.

Giant marshmallows are a TON of fun!!!

Emmett discovered the camera on our computer and loves taking pictures of himself. They always turn out better though if he has a little help.

Buche De Noel for Christmas Eve.

MaryEllen dressed as Mary on Christmas Eve. (Naturally, her American Girl doll is baby Jesus.)

Slacker

2011-01-19T13:51:00.000-08:00

That's me! I can't believe how long it's been since I posted! I'm just going to do a little catching up.

Thanksgiving was great... I did the Run to feed the Hungry for my 5th time this year! It was a great experience as it always is, although the weather was in the 30's!!! I bundled the kids as best I could and they had a great time cheering on all of the runners.
We had Thanksgiving dinner with the Faulconers/ Bjurstroms, and it was a great feast for all!

The month of December was a little crazy. Brian had surgery just a week before Christmas on a torn quad muscle, so the whole month before was spent trying to make sure I was ready for Christmas. I'm happy to say I was sufficiently prepared and the surgery went well. Recovery has been slow, but Brian started back to work last week and is adjusting fairly well. It's going to be a long time before he's back to normal, but I think he's happy with the progress he's made.

Christmas was fun, with the kids all getting their most coveted toys and things, and even some that they didn't expect! MaryEllen was especially thrilled with the Panda pillow pet that Aunt Francesca got for her! (She has a weird obsession with panda bears right now... whatever makes her happy!) The boys got so many batman/ space/ car/truck/ little people toys that they've been fully occupied for the last month, which makes mommy very happy! So now everything is pretty much back to normal with MaryEllen back in school and Brian back to his old schedule. I am happy to be in a new year, working toward accomplishing new goals! Happy New Year!!!!!

About to start the run on Thanksgiving morning. SO COLD!!!!

Mailing Letters to Santa at at Macy's (Emmett had one too, but refused to pose next to the mailbox with it.)

Our visit with Santa (once again, Emmett was there, but was being disagreeable.)

I'll have more pictures when I sync my phone... which I almost never do!!! I need to soon though, and I'll try to post then.

A little Halloween

2010-12-01T14:27:00.000-08:00

I don't know why... but I didn't take very many Halloween pictures this year. I have NO EXCUSE, because even if I forget my camera I can use my iPhone. Hopefully my posterity will excuse my laziness. We didn't do too much trick or treating, due to the Sabbath day, but we had a fun ward trunk r' treat on Saturday. We went to my parents house for dinner on Sunday and I let (or forced, in Emmett's case) the kids put on their costumes for the evening. It was very low key, and I actually loved it!

I carved these 3 pumpkins plus a spider, but for some reason that one didn't get a picture taken.

Brian carved this based off of one we saw at Disneyland.

Our trunk for the Trunk r' treat. (There's the spider!)

I could not get these kids to pose for a picture!!!! We went super cheap on costumes this year... I borrowed the Batgirl costume from one of ME's friends, and got the Batman and Robin costumes at a thrift store for $1.50 each! (They're both way too small, but for that price who cares!) I had to make them capes and boot covers, but overall I probably only spent $8 on all the costumes!

Messy dessert at Grandma's house.

As promised... a month later

2010-11-26T20:02:00.000-08:00

The rest of the Disneyland Pics. Someday I'll get around to Halloween, but I can't promise anything right now. SO BUSY!

Weird backlit picture of me, but I was so excited about the return of Captain EO!

This was the most brilliant actress I have ever seen! I was convinced that she was the real live wicked queen. She was so mean and had a constant look of disgust on her face.

Hook was a real flirt.

the strange looking queen of hearts. I wish they had figured out how to make her not look like a man in drag.

Our romantic getaway...

2010-10-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

TO DISNEYLAND!!!!!

Brian and I had the opportunity last weekend to go to a conference at Disneyland and we just couldn't pass it up! We had such a great time... it was our first time being away from the kids and it was so relaxing and wonderful! (Don't get me wrong, our kids are AWESOME, but everyone needs a break now and then.)

Neither of us had ever been there at Halloween and we had so much fun admiring all of the decorations, and we especially enjoyed the scarier Halloween version of Space Mountain and the "Nightmare before Christmas- ified" Haunted Mansion. It was also fun meeting the villains, and just doing the other normal Disneyland stuff. We had also never been to California Adventure, so we enjoyed experiencing that for the first time together. One of the best parts of the trip was seeing "The Wonderful World of Color", which is a night time show done at Paradise pier where jets of water are shot hundreds of feet in the air and then colors and images are projected onto them. It was truly magical!!!

First stop of the day... It's a Small World

Can I conquer this enormous corn dog? I did, and it was awesome.

Haunted Mansion

My prince charming and me.

If He can't pull it out, no one can!

So that was day 1! I was going to just upload all the pics, but Blogger won't let me do anymore for some reason. Something to look forward to next time!

Siblings

2010-10-09T14:57:00.001-07:00

Some pictures of the kids hanging out together this summer.

Starting over. AGAIN.

2010-10-05T17:10:00.000-07:00

Potty training Henry. Take 5. (or maybe 6? I don't know, I've lost count.)

Since using a chart almost worked last time, I thought I'd apply the same principal, but make it a little more fun and exciting. First he'll have to traverse the Lone Potty Wilderness. then he'll pass through Underoo Forest on his way to the Land of Flushing Waters.

Hopefully he'll be potty trained by the time he arrives at the giant Woody doll, which will be his prize. Last time we got through the whole chart and he was no where NEAR ready to ditch the diapers. I'm talking an accident EVERY TIME we tried underwear, and usually within the first 10 minutes of putting them on. Everybody cross your fingers!!!

Back to school!

2010-10-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

MaryEllen went back to school and is THRILLED to be a first grader! As she says, "First graders are number 1!!!!!! Get it? Because of the 1?" She is doing great in her 1st / 2nd grade split class, and is one of only 6 1st graders. We absolutely love her teacher, and are so excited for what is sure to be a great year!

We made these little mini apple cupcakes for her teacher on the first day. There's nothing wrong with kissing a little butt at the start of the year!

One of MaryEllen's best friends Haley, is in her class. I knew this seating arrangement wouldn't last long. Mrs. Andrews moved them before the end of the day.

First grader desk!!!

Nothing Major.

2010-09-18T17:25:00.000-07:00

We've actually had a lot of major stuff... but I'm not feeling up to a long post, so I thought I'd just post about some not- so major stuff.

There's something about this kid. He's so cute he's almost cartoonish!

Henry got into a fight. (Actually, first his feet got into a losing fight with the carpet, then his face got into a losing fight with the piano bench. He tripped and hit his face. But a fight sounds WAY cooler!)

MaryEllen wanted a short back to school haircut! She looks way too old... and I miss the side- ponies. But it is awfully cute.

Henry had his 3 year check- up and they made him wear this HUGE paper gown.

Don't judge me by my boy.

2010-09-04T21:08:00.000-07:00

Henry looks totally WT in this video. Wearing his "baljeet pants", no shoes and crazy hair, (he had just come out of the bounce house) and dancing while half asleep (but looking half high.) Oh, I forgot chee- toh fingers. The result is pretty hilarious!

Henry turns 3!!!!!

2010-09-03T16:59:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome Giant's themed birthday party for Henry this year, and it was SO MUCH FUN! I was really hoping it would be cool enough to do the pinata and have the kids play outside, but with an August 14th birthday, the odds are always stacked against us. So our little house was filled to the max and we got a pull- string pinata (COMPLETELY stupid and not nearly as fun as swinging a bat... but it worked out for our tight family room.)

Everyone had a great time and I'm so glad we could celebrate our silly-funny- lovey boy from the Bronx! (I call him that cause he has a super funny New Yorker accent.)

The jersey pinata. (none of the strings actually made it break open, so I ended up having to rip the bottom out myself.)

Candy Rush!!!!!!

I was a little disappointed at the scale of this cake. The mitt is a little small for the ball, don't you think?

Present pandemonium.

We got him this Bat cave, which he hasn't stopped playing with in 3 weeks!

Even ultra- feminine Emelia can get into a toy this awesome!

First Haircut!!!!

2010-08-21T20:52:00.000-07:00

After many "oh what a beautiful little girl!" comments, I knew it was time to get Emmett's haircut.

For Henry's first cut we went to the cheapest place possible. The lady knew nothing about cutting kid's hair, and therefore it was a terrible experience that scarred Henry for life. He hates getting his hair cut.

I decided to go to one of those ridiculously overpriced kids places for Emmett's first cut, hoping it would be a fun experience for him. It was!! He loved playing in the little jeep he was seated in, and I don't think he even knew he was getting his haircut until she was almost finished and pulled out the electric clippers. Then he freaked out, Overall it was worth the money for a good memory, cute pictures, and one VERY cute little boy haircut.

cute, but ragged.

Before....

oh so sweet and cooperative!

Freak out time!

Still a little shaken up over his lost locks... but SO HANDSOME!!!!

Dylan's birthday remembrance

2010-08-21T20:32:00.000-07:00

Last month we had a little birthday remembrance for Dylan at his gravesight. It was so nice to be a part of such a wonderful occasion... Celebrating the life of such a beautiful boy! We were able to release balloons with messages to Dylan, have a "moment of noise" in his honor, and our family made some birthday card signs to put in the ground. It was a beautiful day, and I know that Dylan was watching us and laughing along!

Car full of Balloons!!! What a fun drive!

Carl Frederickson.

Henry and our cards for Dylan.

Balloons to heaven.

"Moment of noise"

Hard drive hard times

2010-08-06T17:53:00.000-07:00

We had a scare last week and almost lost our ENTIRE hard drive. The moment Brian told me we might lose everything my immediate thought was "NOT MY PICTURES!!!!" I thought about the fact that I haven't had a picture printed in years unless it was to give to someone else. About how grateful I was for my blog, I would at least have that, but I didn't start that until Henry was 1... all of his baby pictures would be gone. And lastly I thought about Dylan. MaryEllen will remember him because she's older, but without pictures, will my boys even remember their cousin?

Fortunately, I am married to a computer geek. It took a week of hard work and 1 very expensive software program, but we got it all back. (pictures and music, that is... documents are another story, but I don't really care about those.) I've enjoyed over the last few days looking at the pictures I so took for granted before! We are taking serious precautions now and are backing up like crazy!!! Here are some pictures I found that made me laugh. I'm so glad we have them. This day was one of my favorite memories of Dylan. He and MaryEllen had so much fun squishing Francesca in the hammock!

Alzheimers Run at East Lawn

2010-08-04T13:58:00.000-07:00

This is the 3rd year that our family has participated in the Alzheimers 5k at East Lawn downtown, and every year we have a blast!

It was Henry's first year doing the kids 1/4 mile. He was so hilarious... as he ran into the finish he was going all serpantine, wiggling his legs and running all over the place. Brian ran with him and said he did that the entire time. What a wierdo!!! He had so much fun and had the HUGEST smile on his face when he got his little medal.

MaryEllen moved up an age division this year into the 6- 8 year old 1/2 mile group. I was so proud of her! She was obviously one of the younger kids running, and she hung right in there with the older kids.

This was my second year singing the National Anthem and I am proud to say that I over came my fear of the green metal platform. (It's a rickety stairway with a platform and rail at the top... last year I climbed to the top and started singing, like I was supposed to, but I was so scared that the thing was going to collapse under me that my voice shook for the first half of the song! I've sung the National Anthem at more events in my life than I can count, so I don't get nervous about that at all... but that platform! Yikes!!!!) I think I sounded good... better than last year at least!

Brian, Emmett, and I all did the 5k. Emmett and I took the first mile at a leisurely 22 minutes. I'm not kidding. One drawback of singing is that the starting gun blows just as I'm getting down, which means I have no choice but to join the slowpokes at the back of the pack. I tried my best after breaking free from them, but was still disappointed with my time. Meanwhile Brian, who has a potentially surgery requiring pulled muscle in his thigh and hasn't run in who knows how long, put in a clock busting time of 31 minutes. Amazing!

We had a great time and are happy to have this event as a yearly tradition for our family. We are proud to honor Brian's Grandma Lucienne's memory and hope we can continue for years to come!

Henry at the start line.

Finishing strong!

Daddy helps him show off his gold medal.

MaryEllen is Excited to get running!

Proudly sporting her medal.

Trying not to look nervous...

and facing the green- staired monster.

Emmett's pooch dreams

2010-07-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

I put Clara in her crate, then went to get her food out of the garage. This is what I found when I came back.

Yes, I was disgusted, too. I love our dog, but realize that all animals are teeming with bacteria and general filth. Fortunately, it was bath time anyway.

Jumble of Nonsense

2010-07-17T20:39:00.000-07:00

Get ready for the randoms!!!

All the Fry grandkids at baby Peter's blessing.

Fry's, Gastaldi's, and Kuhnz'.

My birthday pavlova... i.e. the best thing I ever ate. (thanks Mom!)

I don't think you can handle this.

The boys like to watch movies in their little lawn chairs... whatever makes them happy!

Water fun with cousin Brianna.
R.I.P. little swimming pool, The dog got to it that very night.

This is what he puts on every time he plays dress up with Sissy. Again, whatever makes him happy.

Kindergarten "promotion ceremony". Mrs. Valencia refuses to call it a graduation, which I agree with.

We were trying to get a good shot for a gift for Fathers' day. These were the 2 winners.

He was so angry at me for not letting him play in the same cabinet as my Cuisinart blades.

4th festivities

2010-07-14T21:40:00.000-07:00

We spent 4th of July with the Bjurstroms/ Faulconers/ Harris' and had a great dinner and dessert. Kalen capped off the night with a FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA!!!! It was awesome.

My favorite part of the night was playing "Just Dance" on the Wii. I got a lot of great videos of the dances, but I'm just gonna post this one of my cuties. Enjoy!

Note: pay attention when the drums break and the rap solo starts... Henry really turns it on then!

MaryEllen turns 6!!!!

2010-07-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

MaryEllen turned 6 a couple of weeks ago and we had a casual party at our house for our family and her 2 best friends. She picked everything from the meal (hot dogs, carrots, and Mac n' cheese) to the cake (chocolate with chocolate chunks, chocolate frosting and peanut butter creme filling between the layers) to the favors for her treat bags. We planned on playing in our backyard, but it was too hot, so the kids just destroyed the house while the grown ups relaxed. It was a lovely evening for my lovely girl!

We were so excited about her gift from us... an American Girl doll! We had been planning this surprise for a LOOOONG time, so it was definitely the main event for me.

She blew out the candles without making a wish! When I asked her why she said she was too afraid. She had just the day before watched a movie on Disney Channel about a girl who makes a bunch of wishes on her 16th birthday, then regrets it when they all come true. I thought it was funny how literally she took the "be careful what you wish for" message of the movie.

Time for bed! She got so many great presents, including these matching nightgowns for her and her doll.

A Giant anniversary celebration!

2010-06-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe it's already been 7 years since Brian and I got married! We bought tickets a while ago to go to the Giants game on Memorial day (the day after our anniversary). We of course couldn't have known that our family would be going through such a trial the weekend before with Dylan's passing, and we both felt strange taking the day to do something so fun at that time... but Francesca and Kalen assured us that it would be okay and we should enjoy the day.

We dropped the kids off the night before with my parents so that we could have a relaxing morning and we wouldn't have to rush around. It was both Emmett and Henry's first night away from home, so I was a little anxious, but I think they did okay. We left in the morning and had a nice drive down to SF, lots of time to talk and reflect, and then made our way into the stadium to enjoy our AWESOME seats!!! We were sitting 3rd row behind the Giants bullpen! The pictures say it all.

We both got really emotional when they did a Memorial day salute and moment of silence, I know we weren't thinking of the soldiers, but of Dylan, and it was wonderful to share that moment together.

Overall it was a beautiful day and I'm glad we went. The rest of the week was rather hectic preparing for the funeral, and spending that time together really helped us to reflect on the wonderful life we have created together and all of the blessings we have to be grateful for, despite the trials that all must meet in this life.

Pre- game canoodling.

Lincecum headed to the bullpen to warm up.

What a cutie!

Gettin' freaky with the freak!

We never buy each other Anniversary gifts, but we decided we would buy each other souveniers from the game, and we both ended up picking out hats!

The view from our seats... pretty amazing, eh?

Softball is over! (Can't say i'm TOO disappointed.)

2010-06-10T19:12:00.000-07:00

I'm so behind on posting! I'm going to try to catch up a little at a time.

MaryEllen's team had an end of year party a couple of weeks ago, then this last Saturday they got their trophies at an awards ceremony at the field. These are the pictures from both.

Most of the team with Coaches Vincent and Michelle.

Coach Michelle presented all the girls with Certificates.

The cake. (Guess who made it.)

Receiving her trophy.

The proud girls with their trophies.

It was a fun year of T- ball, and I'm glad we did it, but I don't think we'll be back next year. Too many games, no pictures (not for us at least, they were on Sunday) and a bit too much disorganization for me. Besides, I think MaryEllen is a true Soccer girl. (Hmmm, I wonder where she gets that from!)

For Dylan

2010-05-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to

Dylan Zachary Bjurstrom
July 25, 2003 - May 29, 2010

We will miss your amazing smile and contagious laughter. There can never be a sweeter boy.

We Love you Dylan... We look forward to the day when we will walk and talk with you!
Love, Uncle Brian, Aunt Lori
MaryEllen, Henry and Emmett

Our Big Fat backyard project

2010-05-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

It started when I attended a Relief Society class on square foot gardening. Then we found the super cute swing set and matching table and chairs. Now my mind won't quit on how to make our backyard even more AWESOME!!! Home improvements are truly addictive.

My garden beds... it took 1 day of shopping and 2 days of hard labor to get them in. Everyone cross your fingers that they grow!!!

We bought the swing-set and table on Saturday night, and even though we knew we couldn't put the swing-set together until Monday, I promised the kids they could have lunch at the table before church on Sunday. So after they went to bed, I put the table and chairs together and had Brian put them outside as a surprise for the kids when they woke up. They were SO EXCITED! They were asking me for lunch all morning!
(PS: This is Henry's new face. It almost never changes, and I'm sure you can imagine the noise that goes with it. Sounds something like a lion cub trying to sound ferocious.)

I did about 1/3 of the Swingset while the boys were napping on Monday, then I hit a wall. It's a 2 man job for sure! Brian helped me after he woke up, and by 5:30 the kids (including cousin Elliot and our neighbor Kierden) were having a blast! The light was a little harsh, so some of these may be hard to see.

Now I have visions of new sod and ripping out all the nasty old rose bushes... and maybe a new walkway on the side yard... and I definitely want to plant a big hydrangea in the corner by the Vege garden.... I could go on and on...

Trouble...

2010-05-20T13:58:00.001-07:00

... thy name is Emmett.

At least one contusion of this magnitude or greater per week.

His new favorite perch. Very cute... until he starts throwing dishes (be they clean or dirty) in every direction!

Apparently the hole in this speaker tower is a great place to stockpile toys. I fished out this pile with my vacuum hose after Brian saw him sticking something in there.

Out of the mouths of babes

2010-05-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

Henry had a rough day today. He shouted to me many times in frustration, "FORGET IT! JUST FORGET IT!!!" I don't really know what he meant, but I guess that's the problem.

MaryEllen was saying family prayer tonight and requested that Heavenly Father "bless Henry that he won't be so naughty all the time." As soon as the prayer was over he started shouting at us to turn his favorite show back on. I guess that just proves that our prayers aren't answered immediately.

Kids say the darndest things.

I said I wouldn't....

2010-05-10T20:18:00.000-07:00

But I didn't realize I had some pretty cute pictures of Easter Morning. Here are some shots of my little ragamuffins opening their Easter basket stuff. They were all only half awake, but nothing was gonna keep them from their loot!

(PS: No, I don't know why Emmett's jammie's are unbuttoned down the front.)

Scentsy

2010-05-06T14:00:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been very conflicted about my Uppercase Living Business. I've been disappointed with all the new products coming out and I feel like the company is just trying to throw too much different and new stuff out of each catalog, rather than staying true to their original product, which is GREAT and is the reason I signed on in the first place! After a lot of consideration, I decided I probably wasn't going to put too much effort into my business and I'd just let it phase out.

Enter... Scentsy! My old Uppercase upline invited me to come to the Sacramento Quilt and Craft expo last month where she would be hosting a Scentsy booth. I had never heard of it, but I wasn't about to pass up free tickets to ANYTHING! When I saw the Scentsy booth I automatically knew I wanted in! This was clearly going to be my next venture, and I am LOVING being a consultant!

I know a lot of people probably think it's stupid to put so much effort into these direct sales ventures, but I really love doing it, and even though I never thought I could be a good salesperson, I've found that I'm kind of awesome at it!

So If you're interested, check out my new website:

http://lorifaulconer.scentsy.us

I think you're going to love it!

Talent EXTRAVAGANZA!!!!

2010-04-17T22:22:00.000-07:00

(I Wrote this post a while ago, and have been trying to figure out how to upload the video of her singing... but it wouldn't work! I finally did some research and found out that the max MB for video is 100, and ours is 120! Wish Blogger had told me that before I bothered trying 6 or 7 times to upload it! Anyway, I wish you could see it, she was perfection!)

Our primary children put on a talent show last night and it was really good! (Note the surprised tone.) From jumping jacks to dog whisperers to a violin concerto, the kids all did an amazing job at their various talents!

MaryEllen contributed to the art display, danced in a group dance, (this was just the girls all shaking and wiggling to "Tutti Fruity") and her main event was singing "Castle on a Cloud" from Les Miserables. I was SO NERVOUS for her, but she sang like an angel, and didn't appear to be nervous at all! We are so proud of her... next stop: BROADWAY!!!

MaryEllen and her star (they did a "walk of fame" of sorts, it was really cute.)

MaryEllen's artwork. The bottom picture was a color wonder picture she colored, (that sounded really redundant) and the top is a piece she made all on her own one Sunday morning. She cut out 5 hearts, each representing a member of our family and glued them together with our names on them. I thought it was SO sweet.

The parents were supposed to provide refreshments that showcased their own talents. I made this cake, and for the first time ever I made my own fondant! It was so easy, tasted better, and was SO MUCH cheaper than buying fondant, I'll never go back to the store bought kind.

P.S. This is the cake I made for Easter. We had a great Easter this year, but I'm already really behind and I didn't get a lot of great pics anyway, so I probably won't do a whole post dedicated to it. I DID love how this cake turned out and wanted to share it. It's a Peep sunflower!

Opening day

2010-03-31T19:18:00.000-07:00

MaryEllen is playing Tee ball with the Sacramento girls softball league, and a couple of weeks ago she had her opening day. Aside from the fact that the teams uniforms didn't show up in time and the Banner that I labored over for hours and hours didn't win the banner contest (It was FIXED!!!) The day went pretty well.

This is the shot of the day.

Emmett's second 1st birthday party

2010-03-22T21:54:00.000-07:00

On his Birthday, Emmett had an awesome party at our house with Aunt Francesca, Uncle Kalen, Brianna, Dylan, and Grandma Cherie. We were sad That Grandpa Richard (Pepe, as the kids call him) was too sick to join us. We are hoping he will feel better soon so he can get back into action!

We had a yummy dinner, presents, cupcakes and ice cream, the whole she-bang! Despite the fact that Emmett was a grump and a 1/2 ALL DAY that day, he ended up being in pretty ok spirits for the party.

We were so glad we could finally bust out the "Celebrate" banner that Aunt Jessica made for us! Thank you!!!

Dylan and Dad horsing around.

Brianna and Francesca flashing their pearly whites.

Emmett got lots of cool toys and lots of shirts for summer! Yay!!

This was pretty much his party face all night. Not too bad, but definitely not his smiley self.

Dad helped blow out the candles this time.

His best smile of the night!

It looks like Henry should have a thought bubble in this picture, right? I just don't know what it would say. Maybe, "I wonder if I can convince mom to feed me cupcakes and ice cream for every meal."

Tickle time!!!!

the flying nun

strike a pose!

grandma and Dylan lounging around.

Emmett's first 1st birthday party

2010-03-17T14:23:00.000-07:00

(As opposed to his second 1st birthday party coming up on his actual birthday.)

We had a party for Emmett and cousin Nathaniel(7) last Saturday. It was a lot of fun and Emmett had a great time his first time around eating cake and opening presents!

Looking dapper, as always.

Present time!!

My mom made these matching dresses and scripture totes for each of the girls, and they did a little fashion show for us.

Blowing out the candles with Nathaniel... Nathaniel did most of the work, of course.

The cake I made. It was supposed to be a round cake with big cake Lego's on the top, but that didn't work out. So I had to figure something else out using only the materials I had. I'm pretty proud considering it was completely unplanned!

chowing down!

The 2 birthday boys!

"Cake is FREAKING AWESOME!!!!!"

Jib Jab

2010-03-13T14:55:00.001-08:00

I started watching Regis and Kelly and they do a new one of these every day. I had to give it a try!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Recent stuff

2010-02-24T20:26:00.000-08:00

Henry has taken to arranging his little Elmo, Cookie Monster, and Plex around him in the morning when he is watching TV. Then he makes sure everyone is "coz" by tucking them under his blankies.

Tulips for Valentines day from the best husband!!!!

100 days of school project... we tied 100 bows. (Translation: I tied 100 bows.)

Clara is no dumb dog. She knows where to find the good stuff!

Notice the sizable hole... that's a 4 tooth gap!!!

Purse found... vandalized again!

2010-02-19T09:43:00.001-08:00

Someone called this morning from a store on the corner of Auburn and Madison to tell us that purse was found! That's the good news, the rest is bad, and a little creepy.

Apparently the first crooks, who busted out our passenger window and grabbed the purse out of what I thought was my unnoticable hiding place under the center console, used some credit cards at a gas station, then grabbed the credit card and my ID before dumping it on the side of the road. They went on to do some more credit card damage, which isn't too big a deal because of fraud protection.

The good thing is that they didn't realize I had almost $400 in cash in a coupon organizer! The bad thing is that some bum, who has a little "house" behind the store where the purse was found, found it first. He left a trail of all my stuff from the street corner to his house (which is how the owners of the store found it). My temple recommend, diapers, an old tithing envelope, little toys, a pair of socks, etc. When Brian went to pick up the purse the store owners showed him all this, then he found the coupon keeper and the coupons strewn all over the place, but the cash was gone. The bum had even put one of my old ID's that I kept in my wallet up on the wall of his little house. (That's the creepy part.)

Currently the bum is out spending our money and Brian is waiting there to file a report with the police. I doubt there will be anything left of the $ when the police find him... Hopefully he got a good hot meal out of it!

The best thing to come from this morning was that my keys were found!!!! Now I don't have to worry about someone coming to our house in the night with easy access... or replacing the clicker for the Minivan!

Depressed.

2010-02-18T22:47:00.000-08:00

My purse and all of my worldly possessions (except for my ipod and cell phone, phew.) were stolen tonight when my car was broken into outside of the gym. Even my keys were in it. Say a prayer that someone finds the dumped remains and brings them to me! Even getting my Diaper caddy and the hollow shell of my purse would be a comfort!

Awesome commentary!

2010-02-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU!!!!!

I'm seriously happy now.

No comment?

2010-02-15T15:42:00.000-08:00

It seems like since I put the sticker on my sidebar that says "your comments make me happy" there has been a drastic drop in comments. Are you all purposefully trying to make me UNhappy? Maybe there is just too much pressure. I could take it down! Maybe I'll try that. We'll see how things go after this post.

Emmett vs. Spaghetti

2010-02-06T19:15:00.001-08:00

Spaghetti- 2, Emmett- 0

(I thought we had the 2nd battle in the bag... I was even smart enough to strip him down to his diaper. Turns out spaghetti sticks to baby skin even more effectively than to baby clothes.)

The rare Albino Panda is spotted in the Sacramento area.

2010-02-06T19:09:00.000-08:00

Oh wait, that's Henry with a double case of conjunctivitis.
(don't worry, he's all better now... a week of torturous eyedrops and antibiotics took care of that.)

SNOW DAY!!!!

2010-01-29T22:08:00.000-08:00

We went last Saturday to play in the snow and had a BLAST!!!! Things didn't quite go according to plans, but it all worked out.

We had our eyes on the weather report all week and it was supposed to be clear. Alas, it was absolutely not clear. We didn't have snow chains, which were required for the Sno-Park we had planned (and pre- payed!) to go to. So we decided to double back onto the chain- free I-80 and get off at the bustling roadside Shell station, where everyone else and their Mom's were all playing too! It was okay, I think there could have been an entire towns' worth of people there and there still would have been truckloads of snow to spare. The recent storms had left more snow then I ever could have dreamed of seeing in one place. It truly was beautiful and awesome... and a little scary.

I didn't take a ton of pics... it was annoying having to take my gloves off every time I wanted to snap a shot... but here is a selection of my favorites.

These poor trees were SO weighed down with snow. They looked so droopy and sad!
It sort of looked like an icing factory had exploded, the way the snow was coating the trees.

MaryEllen and Emmett were definitely the snow lovers. I think they both could have stayed all day and wouldn't have gotten sick of it. Poor Henry. He had fun, but he doesn't like his face to get wet, so you can see how that would be a problem. Plus, he didn't get the concept of gloves. He kept taking them off and then getting mad that his hands were cold. So adorably frustrating.

Aren't those boots the cutest?! Thanks to all of or friends who loaned us their gear! We were all so cozy! No one complained about being cold at all. (Well, except for Henry, but that was just his hands.)

This was the last run of the day for MaryEllen and Brian. Henry had been ready to go for a while, so he's the one you hear crying in the background.

The wrong side

2010-01-27T15:45:00.000-08:00

Most days Henry is a pretty happy boy after waking up from nap.

This was not one of those days.

A very good example

2010-01-23T19:35:00.000-08:00

I walked into MaryEllen's room the other day and found this on her wall. She had been playing quietly for a long time and it turns out she was cutting pictures out of the Friend magazine to do a little redecorating.
This was definitely one of those moments where I felt like we must be doing something right as parents!

She used Barbie stickers to put them up... kind of funny to see a picture of Christ held up with a picture of a pink high heel. Whatever works!

Under the influence of a very powerful gabba.

2010-01-18T20:20:00.000-08:00

I know I've mentioned it before... but I once again have to give a shout out to my buddy DJ Lance Rock. Who else could get my into everything, crawls at the speed of light baby to sit like this for 2o minutes at a time?

Brian's updated pics

2010-01-13T19:07:00.000-08:00

Here is Brian's most recent progress from P90X. He insisted this time that I post them, because he didn't think the last ones were all that impressive.

This one's definitely my favorite... awesome pose.

So strong, but oh so gentle. I sure do love this guy!

Christmas

2010-01-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

Overall, we had a good Christmas this year, but it was definitely a challenging week. Our kids were SUPER sick from just before Christmas until just after New Year's, so we couldn't focus completely on the holidays, we had to focus on getting the kids well.

It started 2 days before Christmas with Emmett. He had a fever around 102 for a day or so before then, so I took him into the doctor, who of course could see nothing wrong except the fever. (waste of a $10 copay!) She said to just keep an eye on him.

We spent Christmas eve with my family and had a fabulous time eating, opening presents and celebrating Elliot's 6th birthday, but my mind was on Emmett the whole time... he was still hot and not acting himself at all. He seemed okay that night when I put him to bed, but I checked on him at 2 am (which is when I went to bed! I had to stay up and finish making his stocking!) and he was BURNING UP! I took his temperature and he was up to 104.7!!! I was so scared, but thankfully Brian was home with me and together we worked on getting his temp down and spoke with the doctor on the phone, who said we would be better off keeping him at home and giving him cool baths and medicine than taking him in to the ER. We both stayed up with him literally all night. His fever finally broke at about 4:30 am.

Needless to say, at 6:00 when Henry and MaryEllen woke up, neither of us were in very good shape. We opened presents and stockings, which I barely remember, and I went back to bed. About 3 hours later Brian and I switched off and he went to bed, while I tried to make the house presentable for his family who were coming for dinner and presents. I decided as I walked around in a stupor, just barely conscious, that there was no way I could make the complicated dinner I had planned... so, much to my dismay, we had pizza for dinner on Christmas.

Over the next few days MaryEllen and Henry each got the dreaded fever, and on top of that they had raspy coughs, which leads us to believe they had some kind of nasty flu. But neither of them got as bad as Emmett that night. It is SUCH a relief that they are all healthy now and everything is back to normal, and shockingly, I NEVER GOT IT!!! YAY!!!!

I didn't take very many pictures, but I did get a few good ones.

I was given the honor of making Elliots birthday cake this year, and since he is crazy for Super Mario Bros. I had no choice but to do a Mario theme. The one thing its' missing? Mario. I had intended to buy a figurine for the top, but after searching for a week, I couldn't find one anywhere!

MaryEllen and her Gingerbread house. Thanks Grandma Pepe!

All he wanted for Christmas was a sword... and he got one in his stocking! Thanks Santa!

the opening frenzy!

ME got a cleaning set... hope she can take a hint!

A Diego doodle pro for our budding artist.

The baby loved all of his noisy presents!

The kids and I made Brian this "Daddy of 3" shirt on Zazzle.com. Thanks Makana for the idea! We made them for all of the grandparents, too, and they were a huge hit!

Santa brought Henry this awesome Lightning McQueen Big Wheel!

Clara got a huge candy cane shaped rawhide. She could barely lift it off the ground!

Henry got this huge Hershey bar in his stocking. I had intended to give it to him in little bits, but I turned around one day and this is what I saw. At least he sat at the table!

There were no pictures of my presents, but once again Brian outdid himself. He got me a spa day at the Arden hills Country Club and a Cuisinart electric fondue pot. Does my man spoil me or what?!!! Love you Goose!!!!

Many Happy Returns...

2009-12-25T22:15:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

and a very happy New Year to all!

We hope everyone's 2009 was as blessed as ours!

Love, The Faulconer Family
Brian, Lori, MaryEllen,
Henry and Emmett

I am thankful for family, pizza, and that Soccer is over!

2009-12-19T13:21:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving this year! Starting, as always, with the Run to Feed the Hungry. I didn't do great, but did better than I thought I would! Brian opted to forgo the run to play Football with the ward and then go to bed. (he came home cold, tired, and with a slightly black eye!)

We spent the day with my Family this year, and enjoyed seeing my Aunt Bonnie and most of her family who were in town from Southern California. We had a spectacular feast and the kids had a great time playing with their 2nd cousin Zoe.

Black Friday shopping was successful for me... I scanned the ads days before and was able to narrow down which stores I needed to go to get just what I needed. It also helps that I went with my sister in law Francesca, who could take the gold in the Shopping Olympics, if there were such a thing. (She shopped for almost 24 hrs. straight! I took the easy way out and went for a mere 4 hrs.)

The next day we went to "Happy Hill" (apple hill... Henry really likes it, and has changed the name for all of us.) with Aunt Bonnie and the family. Henry rode the Pony this time! He was so brave and the whole way home he said, "I'm a cowboy!" We all got treats and froze our rears off, which made for a very cozy ride home with the heater at full blast. Overall, it was an excellent holiday!

My cousin Lindsay, rocking the cranberry sauce.

Avery shares the gorry details of his ER visit and stitches just days before Thanksgiving.

Ashley's daughter, Zoe. (slightly younger than Henry.)

My brother Logan cooked the bird this year.

Henry and his pony.

MaryEllen has always wanted one of these caramel apples covered in chocolate and m&m's. I finally gave in and she only ate about 1/4 of it... guess who ate the rest?

The following week our big event was the end of the season party for Brian and MaryEllen's soccer team, the Kickaroos. We pigged out on way too much pizza (that's what happens when you ask Brian to order!) and cake, and the girls all loved being able to hang out and play together one last time. MaryEllen has made some really fantastic friends through soccer this year and we are so glad we will be able to stay close to most of them !

I made the cake. The little soccer balls on the sides were made of gumpaste and had each girls # on them, so they each got one.

Brian's coach plaque.

The trophy's were super cute... they each had a little posable soccer guy on top.

One last game of foose- ball before parting ways!
(Does any one know how to spell fooseball? I tried several different ways and got hit with the wavy red line EVERY TIME!!!)

Finishing the big fat post

2009-11-29T15:05:00.000-08:00

Here are the rest of the pictures from the post before last. I'm so far behind!!!!

First we finish up Halloween...

MaryEllen, demure as ever, in her beautiful Rosetta costume. Did I mention I made that? It was HARD!!!! She'll have to be Rosetta for the next 3 Halloweens to make it up to me.

Henry was supposed to be Nemo again, but decided he was too cool for that. (he wouldn't put the costume on!) I threw together this Baseball player costume in 1 day by getting baseball pants and socks in the athletic section at Target, (yes they carry them all year round!) and buying a plain white t shirt and some iron on transfer paper and printing up Cubs images and his name on it. We already had the hat.. I think the whole thing turned out awesome!

The little fat chicken is always a crowd pleaser.

Next, on to Brian's birthday.

Thanks to all of our family members, we were able to get him what he really wanted this year! His 2 requests were the complete set of "Avatar: the Last Airbender" on DVD (pricey!!!) and A set of Adjustable dumbbells which would go up to 50 lbs each. (WAY pricier!!!) I asked our whole family on both sides to pitch in and we were able to get them both!!! (I also had to drain my Uppercase Living account to make up the difference... Ah the things we do for love!) He loved both gifts, though I don't have any pictures to post of either party.

I made him 2 cakes, 1 for each party... a red velvet layer cake (my new favorite thing) and a chocolate and butter layer cake, which I let the kids decorate with Halloween candy. It was so much fun, and since his birthday is a week after Halloween, I figure I will probably make it a yearly tradition.

Before...

The creative process at work!

and after!

Empty promises again! I never have time to finish! Next post: Thanksgiving and the Kickaroos end of season party!

P90X results!!!!

2009-11-23T23:13:00.000-08:00

Well, you won't be seeing any before and afters of me. I gained 5 lbs. of muscle underneath my pre-existing fat. What a freaking waste of 90 days!!!!

However, Brian's results have been impressive. The after shots were actually taken after 120 days. (he started the program over, adhering more strictly to the diet, and has seen much better results.)

He'll probably kill me for posting these... but I'm so proud!!!!

Before...

and after! (Get me some tickets to THAT gun show!!!!)

Before...

and after! I may be biased, but that is one sexy man... am I right?

{don't worry about me by the way... I started going to the gym again last week and I've lost 4 lbs! It may take a year or more, but I think I actually do have a shot at getting the baby weight off! Now, for the unlost weight from the first 2 babies... we'll just have to wait and see...}

A BIG FAT post

2009-11-15T16:38:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in so long, and we've had a lot of fun events to document, so I'm going to try to catch up in this one BIG post. Here goes...

Emmett and Clara are kindred spirits. They totally love each other and are always showing affection. Maybe it has something to do with "Back to the Future: 3" ?

Clara in her Halloween costume... she's a squirrel.

MaryEllen's debut of her Rosetta fairy costume. This was right before the Fall Festival at her school.

MaryEllen's friends Kirden and Haley at the Fall Festival.

Apple Hill 2009

The ride there is 1/2 the fun!

Not sure why the weird face... she was super excited to ride the pony. Henry was excited until we got about 3 feet from the ponies, then he was hysterical.

The great pumpkin search

Our friends Matt and DeeDee came with us, and I was sure glad DeeDee was willing to go in the hay maze! (not my favorite tradition.)

Baby Envy?

This baby is CRAZY in the tub... I have a video for another time to show his enthusiasm for baths.

These were our pumpkins this year, Brian did the Tinkerbell for ME and I did Blue for Henry.

So I did my best but blogger is super slow right now and I'm too impatient to keep waiting for it to upload my photos. I guess this will be a 2 part post!

A little freaked out

2009-10-19T22:29:00.001-07:00

I am very grateful we have a dog. Sometimes I complain about her; she is very needy and has some OCD tendancies, which can be hard to handle in a person, let alone an animal, but last night I was reminded of how important she is.

I always lock the house up like a ship going into a hurricane when I go to bed, but that doesn't keep me from being a little scared of all the "what- if's" when Brian is at work and I'm on my own. Last night at about 3am Clara started barking ferociously! This was not the first time she had done this, and in the past I have seen cat eyes glowing back at me from the back patio, so I usually write it off as some sort of scurrying animal. I did check things out this time, because she was barking louder than usual and much more angrily. I even let her into the backyard where she ran around sniffing for about 5 minutes an then came back in still growling. Nothing seemed too unusual, so I went back to bed and assumed it was nothing.

Then Brian came home this morning and pointed out that the front security door was standing open! I ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS check to make sure it is closed and locked before I go to bed. It has a sticky lock that sometimes tricks me, so I can see how it may have been left unlocked, but I KNOW it was closed. That can only mean that someone came up to the door and opened it. Sure, the front door was locked also, but I'm sure it would take a not- too- skilled thief to figure out how to get past those rinky- dink contraptions. Just the thought of someone lurking outside my front door while the kids and I sleep inside makes me shudder!

All I know is that I am grateful for a dog who barks at everything that comes within 20 feet of the house, even if it is annoying when it's just a cat. I will never complain about her again!

Walking to school

2009-10-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

On days when the weather is nice and we are running on time we like to walk to school. MaryEllen rides her bike there and I push the double stroller with the boys and hang on to Clara's leash. (She would never forgive us if we went on a walk without her.)

It gets a little hairy walking back with MaryEllen's bike, but I think I have it figured out.

This is how I rig it up. (yes, my right shin gets a bit bruised up, but it isn't that bad.)

Then precious little things like this happen!

Officially mobile

2009-10-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

Emmett is just shy of 7 months old and started crawling last Sunday! My other kids didn't crawl until much later, so it looks so funny to see this little tiny baby making his way around the floor. Here's a peek...

And Here's a cute- but- SCARY extreme close-up!

Emmett on the move

2009-09-29T23:01:00.000-07:00

Emmett has been trying to crawl lately, and its really funny how frustrated he gets that he can't do it. I think he forgets sometimes that he is only 6 months old.

This video has some rare glimpses of him getting grumpy. He is such a happy kid, I almost forget what his cry sounds like sometimes!

this and that

2009-09-28T13:47:00.000-07:00

We got a new camera a few weeks back and I haven't been able to figure out how to upload the photos until today! Here are a few snapshots of our recent days...

I thought this was a good pic of me... until I zoomed in!
HOLY FRECKLES!!!!

Kickaroos in training

helping Daddy set up

I can't get enough of that face! How did this kid get so photogenic?!

The infamous Nemo hat. I recently bought him a real MLB hat so he would stop wearing this one out. Not that it isn't adorable, but it was getting WAY too small.

New PJ's make life so much easier. Bedtime is exciting!

The little guy is getting so big! Lots of eating and almost crawling!

Countdown to the opening of our newly refurbished Target! (Is anyone more obsessed with Target than me? I doubt it.)

We tried on one of Henry's old costumes to make sure it fit Emmett this year. That is one cyte lil' chick!!

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society : A MUST READ!

2009-09-20T23:16:00.000-07:00

I just finished it and I have to say it was one of the most enjoyable things I have ever read. I am sure your library won't have a copy, so just go out and buy it for heaven's sake! You will want to read it again anyway.

Side note: Think of me when you get to the "dead bride" part. I cried, but only from laughing. It was hilarious!

First day of school, first day of school!!!

2009-09-09T16:17:00.000-07:00

(That was Nemo.)

MaryEllen started school yesterday and had an awesome first day. She was super excited and so were we.

Henry was excited, too, until he realized that he wouldn't be going with her! He recently discovered a little Elmo backpack we had at the house and apparently he thought the only requirement to go to kindergarten was wearing a backpack. Poor kid.

I cried like a baby as we were walking away, but at least I held it together while we were in the classroom. I look at Emmett now and think it feels like it was just yesterday that MaryEllen was his size. Now she is practically on her own! (for 3 hours and 20 minutes a day, at least.) I HAVE A KINDERGARTNER!!! I guess it's time for that quarter- life crisis I've been planning.

Mac n' cheese and grapes, her favorite lunch to fuel her day!

So excited!!!

Friends already! MaryEllen's friends MacKenzie (from preschool) and Haley (from soccer) are in her class. And of course, there's Henry, still totally unaware that he isn't one of them.

All ready to learn! (check out all those electrical chords! I just noticed them, but MaryEllen did say when I asked her what she learned, "NO touching the chords!" Now I know why!)

My favorite quote after picking her up, "I love kindergarten! I bet Daddy loved it, too." What am I, chopped liver?

MaryEllen's first soccer game

2009-09-03T17:21:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Rosemont Soccer had it's kickoff jamboree and MaryEllen played in her first game! (Okay, so it was a 10 minute exhibition game, but it was her first real competition.) She played goalie for the first half and had a couple of great saves! The second half she was in the action on the field. She just ran around the pack of little girls with a huge smile on her face. It was so precious! Brian has been coaching her and the other girls, and I think the team is going to do great this year! GO KICKAROOS!!!!!!

#6 ready to hit the field!

pre- game ball inspection

It's a lonely job, but somebody's gotta do it.

I had a bunch of other pics, but blogger won't let me upload them due to "internal error". I'll try again next time.

Want a near death experience?

2009-08-25T22:27:00.000-07:00

Try a whole day of pushing a stroller around the fair in blistering heat, then coming home to do an hour of extreme plyometrics. (oh, add a sunburn.)

Henry is officially 2!

2009-08-19T22:19:00.000-07:00

If you asked Henry any time in the last 3 months how old he is his answer was a proud "2!" Of course, up until last Friday, that was an embellishment.

We spent his birthday making preparations for his party on Saturday. We took a trip to Raley's to visit his favorite cookie lady at the bakery and buy some last minute party stuff. He got to pick out Ice cream flavors (mint chocolate chip and Neapolitan were his choices, I was surprised at how picky he was.) He also chose a special dinner for that evening... big surprise, it was chicken nuggets and tator tots. We had a fun evening as a family, gave him one gift, and went to Baskin Robbins for some birthday ice cream. It was a great day!

It didn't really end there though. I stayed up until 1:30 am finishing up his cake! This was a really big deal to Henry. I often say that Henry's mind is made up of 90% baseball and 10% cake. Anytime we mentioned his birthday for weeks in advance he would shout "CAKE!" as though to let us know this was his top priority on that day! There will be more about the cake in the pictures... all I can say is it was difficult, (so don't ask me to make one for your kid) and it didn't turn out as well as I had hoped (but I am a perfectionist.)

His Yo Gabba Gabba party was awesome! We had almost all of our family there, though we missed Dylan who was very sick, and Uncle Kalen who was taking care of him. He got so many toys we are donating a huge bag of his old ones to the ward nursery! I couldn't believe how excited he got at present time! It was hilarious... even with the cards he would scream with delight, then run around and show everyone. SO CUTE!

I am so proud to be Henry's mommy. He is such a good boy and is always showing love to others. I am positively crazy about this kid!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUDDY!!!!

MaryEllen and Emmett got Henry this Cookie Monster farmer. He is kind of obsessed with Cookie Monster.

I cut the shape of these characters out of gum paste (kind of like fondant but dries hard...almost tastes like a necco wafer.) let them dry for 48 hours, then I painted on their features with food coloring gel and food safe markers.

DJ Lance Rock sans glasses and fluffy hat.

The finished product. My major concern with this cake was that my grandpa, who is 80, and like many very old white men, is a little racist, would be opposed to eating a cake with a black guy popping out of the top. Luckily for us, he kept his comments to himself.

It's Dancey - dance time!!!

Quite a haul, eh?

Aunt Patrice was nearly attacked by this herd of kids who all wanted to see the Plex Key- taur close up!

Henry was so excited at the party about his presents and guests, he hardly ate a bite of the much anticipated cake. Here he is relishing every morsel of the last piece the next day after church.

Spinning plates

2009-08-07T22:56:00.000-07:00

Lately I feel like a bit of a sideshow act. You know the spinning plates guy. He must keep all the plates spinning or one will fall... and the more plates he adds the harder it gets. I just want to go through a few of my plates here, so that everyone can see why I have let my blogging plate fall to the ground a few times.

Plates 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5: My Family. Actually , Emmett probably counts for 3 or 4 plates on his own, and Henry, because he is almost 2, counts for at least that many. MaryEllen is going through a helpful phase, so take away 1 plate, but she is also going through a whiny phase, so you can add 2 for the headache she gives me nearly everyday. Brian actually isn't a plate. He is like a partner in my routine. But unfortunately, it is MY routine and there are only so many plates he can take off of my hands at any given time.

Next plate: Housework. I know, I know, I am a housewife. I should expect that there is going to be housework. But I SWEAR! Sometimes it feels like no matter how much I clean, how much LAUNDRY I do, how many times I do the dishes a day, it NEVER GETS DONE!!!! I know I should accept that it will never get it done and just let some of it go, but truth be told, it makes me crazier to live with it than to try to keep up and fail. That plate I just keep dropping. (It must be Correll, because it never breaks.)

Next plate: Uppercase Living. This one has slowed to a near stop on multiple occasions. But every time I tell Brian I am going to throw in the towel and stop trying, I get a new order from a past client. Or someone calls and finally wants to book that open house she planned on 6 months ago. Right now I am at a standstill. The plate is just barely hanging on, because I have no bookings and the new Catalog just came out with TONS of new product and awesome options for designing your own stuff and I am totally overwhelmed!! (If anyone is interested, please visit my website. This is not a sales pitch, I just really love this stuff. http://lori.uppercaseliving.net )

We had a stomach flu hit our house and all of the plates dropped momentarily for about 3 1/2 days, but were back now.

We have had fun plates, too over the past few weeks. Here are a few:

I got to sing the National anthem at the 5K for Alzheimer's Aid a few weeks ago and I was introduced by Mayor Kevin Johnson. That was Awesome. (Aren't you glad Heather Fargo didn't win? It isn't as exciting to say "I was introduced by Mayor Heather Fargo." Sorry Fargo fans.) I ran the 5K and MaryEllen did the kids fun run. Emmett even went along on it with my mom and finished at a pretty decent time for a 4 month old.

MaryEllen started soccer and Brian is her coach. He does an awesome job and the girls all seem to really love him. Mary Ellen looks so cute in her little soccer get- up!

I went to see Julie & Julia with my mom and Grandma. I was the youngest person in the theater, but funnier than that, my mom, at 52 was probably the second youngest! It was a sea of white, grey and dyed Ashe blond heads. We loved the movie. If Meryl Streep doesn't win an Oscar for her portrayal as Julia Child it will be a crime! 15 minutes into the movie I had already forgotten that she wasn't Julia herself! I highly recommend the movie, it is very very cute.

I almost forgot one of my most time consuming and exhausting plates! P90X!!! Brian and I are on day 12 of the 90 day extreme home fitness program and let me tell you... it is EXTREME!!! It was created by a guy named Tony Horton who is totally crazy, but in a really likable way. We do a different routine every night of the week and they range anywhere from 1 to 1 1/2 hours of CONSTANT work. I wake up sore every day BUT I LOVE IT!!! I plan on posting before and after photos every 30 days, so you can look forward to the first installment in a couple of weeks.

I guess that's it. It seems like a lot when I'm actually living it, but when I look at it all written down it doesn't seem quite as bad. I think what I am starting to realize is this. It's just like I said at the beginning, the more plates you add, the harder it gets... but here's the kicker: That also makes it all the more amazing and rewarding when you can accomplish it! I may not have all of my plates spinning super fast all of the time, and I may drop one on occasion, but I chose to be a plate spinner. This is my sideshow and I'm sticking to it!

Emmett fell asleep and his pacifier gave him this pig nose. TOO CUTE!

Look at that face!

I love this guy!

MaryEllen and her cousin Brianna at the finish line. Henry cheered for them the whole time!

Brian's Uncle Al and Aunt Zella came to visit last Sunday. MaryEllen took both of these pictures.

I made this cute blanket and burp cloths for my friends new baby girl. Congrats Bonnie and Sean!

Beach/ Legoland

2009-07-24T11:23:00.000-07:00

Day 3 was set aside to recover from Disneyland. We did some shopping in downtown Laguna, then met my Mom's cousin Janie and her husband George, and my Aunt Bonnie and all of her kids down at the beach for a BBQ. It was awesome, a perfect night.

My Aunt Bonnie and her youngest grand- daughter Shel.

The next day we went to Legoland in Carlsbad. I had heard a lot of good things about it and we were all really excited. We were a little bit disappointed at the beginning. the lines for the rides were really long, and none of them were super spectacular, so it felt like kind of a waste. The Lego demonstrations were cool but needed some care. Most had lots of cob webs and were faded from the sun. By the end of the day the crowds had thinned out and we were able to get on a lot of rides. MaryEllen had a great time, but we probably wont go back any time soon.
Henry was so proud of this tower!

Some of the vegies in this garden were real, some were Legos.

one of the more lame rides.

These 2 were pretty cool, both were made entirely of Legos- the light Sabres too!

We stopped for pizza on the way back to our house. Henry fell asleep sitting up with a full mouth of pizza!

The family in front of the beach house.

Thank Heaven for all of the ipods we've won over the years. We loaded them up with kids shows and gave each kid a set of headphones. They kept quiet for most of the drive there and back!

Well that's finally the end of our vacation! It was so fun, but it was great to get back home and back to a routine!

Day 2: Disneyland!!!

2009-07-12T13:58:00.000-07:00

The next day we went to Disneyland and had a magical time. It was all of the kids first trip and we were able to meet Brian's whole family there and spend some time with them. In the interest of saving $ we decided to only go for one day, but at the end of the day we agree that if we could have done it over we would have bought 2 or 3 day passes. There is just SO much to do! We were so glad we had my mom there, she helped take care of Emmett and Henry when there were rides they weren't big enough for, and was a great help!

A man and his map: Its a beautiful thing.

The end of the night.

I am totally bummed, because my favorite picture from the day seems to have been erased. (Henry has recently taken an interest in the camera, or as he calls it, "the cheese" and I think he must have erased it.) It was MaryEllen asleep in the stroller with Minnie Mouse standing next to her. She had wanted to see Minnie all day and couldn't find her. We had a stuffed autograph dog we had bought for the trip to get signed by characters, but as anyone who has been to Disneyland on a busy day knows, meeting a character means waiting in a very long line! Anyway, we were headed out the gate with only 2 autographs on MaryEllen's dog when I saw Minnie Mouse! I thought I would have her sign it as a surprise while ME slept, but of course, Minnie's escort told me she was just going on break. I told her my sob story and she said if I gave her the dog she would take it backstage and get all of the characterts to sign it!!! 10 minutes Later Minnie came back and hand delivered the dog COVERED IN AUTOGRAPHS! MaryEllen was so thrilled when she woke up and it totally made our day! I just wish I had the picture so MaryEllen can have that memory also!

1st Vacation post

2009-07-07T21:05:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome trip to southern California last week! We did so much, there's no way I could fit it all in one post, so I'll be doing one day of the vacation at a time. Here goes day 1...

Well, day 1 was really driving, but day 2 we got to experience waking up to the beautiful view out the big front window at my Great Aunt and Uncle's beach house in Laguna Beach. Since it was Sunday, we tried to go to church at the Laguna beach ward. DENIED!!!! I have never seen such a tiny overstuffed chapel in my life!! We couldn't even get in to stand in the foyer! We decided if we hurried we could still take the Sacrament at the Mission Viejo building a short drive away. We got there with 5 minutes to spare and were just settling into our seats when we noticed we were the only blonde heads in the house. My mom asked a missionary if we happened to be at the spanish branch, which of course, we were. Oh well, we couldn't understand a word, but we at least got to take the Sacrament.

After church we sinned and spent the rest of the day at the beach. (Hey, it was a vacation, right?) The house we stayed in is part of the 3 Arch Bay community, so we got to go to the private beach. (We didn't spot LC or Kristen Cavallari there, but that is the beach that was featured on the show.) Lots of cute pics to follow.

The view. (Even more awesome without the haze.)

This was the first and last time they used my Great- Uncle Carl's Binoculars. Henry dropped his pair shortly after this and they were both banned from then on.

I neglected to add that this was also MaryEllen's birthday. She doesn't like cake, so here she is blowing out her 5 candles in her birthday doughnut!

Emmett Chillin' beachside.

Silly, pasty Henry.

I tried to crop myself out of this one. Unfortunately it was impossible.

I didn't get any pics of the stairs, but you have to climb down about 150 to get down that cliff face. (Well worth it!)

Little matching brothers!!!

2009-06-20T10:25:00.001-07:00

Case study of a sleep disorder

2009-06-12T19:39:00.000-07:00

Henry likes to wake up at 5 am, then fall asleep an hour later while eating cereal and watching Yo Gabba Gabba. It is a very unfortunate schedule for his parents.

Anniversary/ birthday weekend

2009-06-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was our 6th wedding anniversary! I can't believe it's been 6 years already!

We had planned on leaving Friday morning for Lake Tahoe and coming back Saturday evening, but MaryEllen decided to get sick, derailing our day a bit. She woke up on friday throwing up, and as the day progressed she started to have diahrrea attacks, also. The sad part was that she was so weak she could barely pull herself out of bed, resulting in lots of panty changes. I was so worried, I told Brian we'd better cancel the hotel room. At that point we found out we were too late to cancel and we would be paying the $170 whether we went or not! My mother the saint agreed to come and stay at our virus ridden house with the kids, and we reluctantly left. Although I was worried about MaryEllen, we ended up having a great time. The hotel we stayed at was awesome, it was bigger than our first apartment, with a full kitchen, huge bath and even a 2 person jetted tub! Brian forced me to get a massage at the spa on Saturday morning and it was AMAZING. I have never had a professionel massage before, and I always thought I would be uncomfortable, but that was not the case! I have never felt so relaxed in my life. We then went to harvey's and gambled away our allotted $5 each on the slots. (gambling is stupid.)

We came back on Saturday evening to a little skeletal version of MaryEllen. She had thrown up into the night and fell asleep as my dad and brother gave her a blessing. She woke up feeling better, but it took her a full two days to truly recover! She lost 4 1/2 lbs. That's 15% of her total body weight! We are so glad that she is better, and none of us got sick, which leads me to believe it was something she ate. (A peanut cookie from Target the night before is the only thing I can think of as the culprit, but I don't know.)

Sunday we celebrated my birthday with my family, and then Monday with Brian's family, and Tuesday (my actual birthday) we saw Up. A pretty fun long weekend overall, but I'm hoping for a little less throwup (and a lot less worry) next year!

My Hubby in our hotel kitchen.

Living/ dining room

The awesome tub! I must own one someday!

My wonderful husband!

My Birthday ice cream cake from ColdStone. (yes, those are chunks of cookie dough on top!)

Up!!!

2009-06-02T23:37:00.000-07:00

MaryEllen took me to see Up for my birthday! It was just the two of us at a late night showing; so much fun!!!
The movie was adorable, and very touching. At one point I was crying pretty openly, and MaryEllen reached over and touched my arm and said, "It's okay mommy. Everything will be okay." What a cute girl! Anyway, we both gave the movie 2 thumbs way up. Great humor and visuals for the kids, and great plot and character development for the grown ups.

Henry's passion

2009-06-01T23:23:00.000-07:00

Henry has had one thing on his mind for the last month or so... B-BALL!!!! That's baseball to everyone else. He has a killer fast ball and he can swing like a pro! And to top it all off he's a lefty! Here is some video that you'll be seeing on ESPN 20 years from now when he is drafted into the majors. (Is there a draft in MLB? I'm such a girl, I have no idea how that works.) Sorry for the poor quality, and for my dirty garage!

Backgrounds

2009-05-15T15:14:00.000-07:00

Just so everyone knows, i'm letting my kids switch off picking my backgrounds. Henry picked the baseball last week, this new one is MaryEllen's.

I must vent!!!

2009-05-07T13:59:00.000-07:00

(I realize after having written this that it is a bit long, and a bit negative, but I don't regret it!)

Okay, something happened about a week ago that I can't let go!!! I have got to rage about it for a bit!

I was at Target (my home away from home) with all three kids. We had just gotten new sofas delivered and, in order to keep them clean, decided to get bean bag chairs for the kids to sit on. I started out in control, with Emmett in the cart up front, Henry in the back, and MaryEllen walking alongside. However, once we picked up the bean bag chairs, they had to go in the cart, which meant that Henry (aka the light complexioned Speedy Gonzales) was free to roam on his own. At one point he started running and MaryEllen, attempting to help, started chasing him down the main drag by the registers, with me trailing behind, yelling at them both to stop. It was then that I first noticed Her. A tiny, perfect 20 something in a yellow spandex Livestrong top and short running shorts. She had just entered the store as I was catching up to the kids and when she saw me struggling to pick up Henry as he kicked and screamed, she gave me a look of shock and disgust. The look said,"What is this woman thinking going out in public?! If she insists on having a herd of children she should know better than to attempt living a normal life! Cage up this unfit mother!!!" (At least, that was how I interpreted it.)

I already knew I was going to have to pay and leave, and once I regained some sense of control over Henry I started heading to the register. That's when it hit me. The stench of a diaper filled with apple- slice induced diahrrea. I knew if I didn't change him right then, I would be dealing with diaper rash and a grumpy kid all night. I made my way to the restroom knowing I would have to take the cart in, and also knowing that this particular Target has a very poor restroom layout. I struggled, but ultimately succeeded in getting the cart around the impossibly tight corner and into the door, then realized that with the changing table folded down, there was no good place to leave the cart. I would either have to leave it blocking the entry, two stalls, two sinks, or a hand dryer. I picked the dryer, but after sticking the cart near it, it began roaring like a jet engine, and woke Emmett up. He began screaming and I moved him over in front of the stalls, figuring there was no one in the bathroom anyway, and set to work on cleaning up Henry.

It was a bigger job than I had anticipated, and Emmett wasn't getting any happier. MaryEllen (once again trying to be helpful) started pushing the cart back and forth to try to soothe him, but when that didn't work she abandoned the cart in the entryway and started into a very loud song and dance routine in the middle of the floor. This is when Miss Livestrong walked in.

I understand how she could have been overwhelmed upon entering. With three kids making a lot of noise in an echoing bathroom, the entryway partially blocked, and the smell of diahrrea thick, I would have been overwhelmed also. It was her reaction that I don't understand. I was already apologizing as I tried to reach the cart to move it, but in order to do that, I would have to leave Henry, still not entirely wiped and very wiggly on the changing table. She just stood there, a wide eyed glare of fury on her face. Rather than trying to move the cart on her own, or trying to squeeze past it, which given her size would have been entirely possible, she just stood there. I finally recovered from my own shock enough to get MaryEllen's attention so she could move the cart, and once the lady was free to pass she continued into a stall, but I swear she didn't take her eyes off me once! She just stared at me with awe and disgust. As though I was some poor creature she should have taken pity on, but she just couldn't conjure it up.

I tried to let it go, but I knew immediately that I should have said something. I knew because I already had a running dialogue in my head of what I should have said, and that dialogue continued all night long. Why did she hate me? Was it children in general she didn't like, or were mine particularly abhorrent to her? I wanted to know so badly I even wandered up front near the registers for a few minutes longer hoping I would run into her. But alas, my questions went unanswered.

I have tried all week to put myself in her place, to try and see through her eyes and figure out how I would react. Would I have been as rude if I didn't understand the struggles af a mom with three kids? Perhaps she simply didn't know how to react, never having been in that position, and this was her default face. I came to the conclusion that I would not have done anything remotely close to what she did. Even before I had children, I had some sense of motherhood, and I know that if I was her I would have helped. How could she stand there, seeing me struggle, and NOT want to help. Did she know that I already felt guily and embarrassed, and that her glares and lack of speech only intensified that to the brink of me feeling actual shame for being a mother?

I know that I will probably never see this woman again. But if she is a blogger, and she ever happens to come across this, I want her to know one thing. I will never forget the way you made me feel, Miss Livestrong. Perhaps that was your intention, but you should never feel a bit of pride in that. It is women like you who are tearing down the institution of Motherhood every day, and our society will pay the price for that. You may think I am overreacting, but for evey mother out there who has ever struggled, and for every woman out there who has helped, the effect is overwhelming and validating. You could have been a part of that Miss Livestrong, and I take pity on YOU for missing out on it.

A blessed boy!

2009-05-04T09:38:00.000-07:00

We had Emmett blessed yesterday during Sacrament meeting and it was such a lovely blessing! I am always amazed at how eloquent and sweet Brian is when blessing our children. (I know it has something to do with the priesthood and all, but I would totally breakdown if I had to do it!!) Most of our family was able to attend and we were so happy to have them all.

Our big family

Our little family

The boy in his blessing outfit

Our cuties!!!

Catching up (alot)

2009-04-22T22:48:00.000-07:00

Emmett's first bath

Emmett's "O" face

Ch- ch- ch- chia!

The week before Easter we made egg shaped rice krispy treats and decorated them with melted chocolate and sprinkles. It was really fun and REALLY YUMMY!!!

Emmett watched from the comfort of his swing

River Cats game with the Fry family

Our friends Brandon and Amanda Kuhnz came with Michael and Elliot

(Baseball was played, I just didn't actually get photographic proof. There were way too many funny kids around to pay attention to the game!)

Easter Morning

Henry got underoo's in his Easter basket (though he isn't likely to use them anytime soon.)

Daddy came home (after working all night) to inspect the loot

Easter dinner and Egg hunt at the Bjurstrom's

MaryEllen got this beautiful dress for Easter. I did her hair in a little up- do for church, but of course forgot to take a picture. She looked so grown up!!

Brian joined us after sleeping for most of the evening

Cute Boys

Coming Soon... a new bathroom, but for now we have this!

Emmett's first photo shoot

2009-04-17T15:36:00.001-07:00

Here are some pics of Emmett. We had them taken yesterday on his 4 week birthday! He's getting so big already!

He's Here!!!

2009-03-22T15:10:00.000-07:00

Introducing.....

Emmett Jeffrey Faulconer
Born March 19, 2009 9:59 pm 8 lbs., 14 oz. 21 inches

My biggest baby yet!

So precious! Even with his gooey eyes!

Waiting in a wheelchair for a room. (we were given "priority status" to get a single room because Brian works there, but after waiting for 20 minutes in the wheelchair they said it could'nt be done. Oh well.)

Looks like a Faulconer kid to me.

Some father son bonding time.

Another Soothie pacifier addict.

I was Super happy here because they had just moved me to a single room! Yay!

Brian, cousin Brianna, and Emmett

No sibling rivalry yet!

Elliot, Emelia, and Uncle Michael all wanted a shot at holding the new baby. (Grandma made them wait.)

Everyone is doing well, even Henry! We all love this new little guy, and more details will come when I am going on more than 3 hours of sleep. (That will happen, right?)

The waiting game

2009-03-11T15:19:00.000-07:00

At my doctor's appt. 2 weeks ago my doctor informed me that I was already dilated to "more than a centimeter" and I could possibly have a baby that weekend!

I wish he would have kept his big fat mouth shut!!!

I am still nine days from my due date, but because Dr. Speculation had to get me thinking of how AWESOME it would be to have an early baby, I haven't been able to think about anything else!

I don't usually like to spout too much negativity on my blog, but I am so sick of being pregnant!!!!

COOL, COOL, COOL TRICKS.......YEAH!

2009-02-19T17:20:00.000-08:00

It's amazing what a kid can take away from a show as educational as Yo Gabba Gabba. I was doing my hair one morning when MaryEllen asked me if I wanted to see her cool trick. (A tip from MaryEllen: "First, you have to huff on it.")

Random Sampler

2009-02-19T17:04:00.000-08:00

I finally uploaded my pics from the last 2 months. They are all very random, and of nothing particularly important. You'll see...

A beautiful mane- do. (I love that she lets me do stuff like this.)

New towels for Christmas. (I did mention these are very random, right?)

Henry took this one. Amazing how his artistic eye was able to capture the full spectrum of my morning ugliness, combined with the completely glazed over look of a husband and wife watching the today show at 7am.

I understand that he had a cold, but come on... this is taking things too far.

I'm a winner!!!!

2009-02-10T22:17:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it!!! Our family went to look at some Model homes over the weekend and the development was having it's grand opening celebration. I entered a drawing, not even really caring what the prize was, and I won an ipod!!! Not just any old ipod, but an 8gb ipod touch! I never win anything!

I actually feel kind of guilty, because I already have a really awesome ipod that Brian won for me 3 years ago at our gym. (He had just gotten one from his parents for his birthday, so he gave it to me.) I'm wrestling with the idea of giving my old one to a family member, or selling it on ebay. The choice would be easy except that I just checked ebay and saw a similar ipod that was about to go for almost 150 bucks! I don't know...

Anyway, enough bragging and back to watching American Idol. (I was mad about them kicking off the Osmand kid, who was really good. And I was even more furious that they kept the crazy laughing drama queen from San Fransisco, but I still can't stop watching! It's like an addiction!)

What's wrong with me?!

2009-01-27T20:43:00.000-08:00

Our family has done so many fun things lately, but I keep forgetting my camera! I don't usually like to blog without pictures because I figure that's what everyone wants to see. I've decided to just go through my old photos and choose some of my favorites. Enjoy!

MaryEllen as a newborn. I love Brian's face in the first picture... I think every new parent knows exactly how he was feeling. She was only 2 days old in the second picture and you could already see how wise she was.

MaryEllen was 2 here. Some of my favorite pictures ever. Everything was just perfect that day.

Graduation day! We were so proud of Daddy!

Brand new Henry. I can't believe we'll have another little guy soon!

That's all for now. Maybe I'll pick it up from here later on.

A tribute to Pacifiers gone by...

2009-01-12T13:10:00.000-08:00

Henry is no longer a "phi- phi" boy. (That's what we call his pacifiers. I don't really know why.) I abruptly decided last Monday that I was sick of them and I didn't want him to have them anymore! I tried the "cut- off the tip" trick that many people have suggested, and trimmed each of them while he was eating his snack. The point I guess is to make it more difficult to suck on, then they will eventually give up and be over the pacifier. Henry took one look at his pile of newly trimmed phi-phi's, picked one up and threw it, then threw a huge tantrum. He flat out refused to put one in his mouth! I ended up just throwing the whole pile away and he went cold turkey. It was a brutal 2 days or so, but since then he actually seems to be doing even better than before. He sleeps better at night, calms himself down better, and is generally happier than he was before! Go figure!

So anyway, Here are some of my favorite memories of Henry and his Pacifier(s).