Miles, Celeste, Zo, and Liam

Family Photos

2012-01-19T20:18:00.000-08:00

My nephew took these pictures back in November. He did a great job, and I'm sad he's leaving for his mission in April. Hopefully that won't mean no family pictures for 2 years.

#1 Thing NOT to pour down your sink

2011-11-04T12:46:00.000-07:00

What is that? And what is that stuff coming out of that pipe? The answer: Grease, pure solidified grease coming out of the pipe that we had to replace.

We've had minor prolems with our sink ever since we moved in, and major problems for the past 2 weeks. Our kitchen sink was so clogged that it would take 8-12 hours for the sink to drain, depending on how much water was in there. It was nearly impossible to do dishes, which has meant a very dirty kitchen and house. (I feel like if my kitchen can't be clean, why bother with the rest?)

A lot of money and two plumbers later we found out the problem was built up grease that previous owners had apparently dumped down the drain. You see, grease doesn't flow down your pipes into the sewer or septic. It solidifies and stays in your pipes and just builds and builds until they're full, and finally the only solution is to replace the line. Sadly we had to tear out the dry wall of our laundry room ceiling (which is WAY harder than they make it look on TV) and have that part of the line replaced.

So next time you think about pouring any grease down the drain, think of this picture:)

Summer/Fall 2011

2011-10-31T11:25:00.000-07:00

In a nutshell...

My mom and sister, Mindy, came and visited us. I showed them Van Meter Park where we went on a nice nature walk. All the boys had a blast finding all kinds of strange bugs, frogs, and birds. Poor Matthew and Zo accidently touched poison ivy along the way. Thankfully my wonderfully prepared sister had this magical mud stuff that helps take away the sting.

St. Louis Botanical Gardens with 2 of my sisters, Floris, Mindy, my mom, and all our kids.

We went to the pool a couple of times. I think Liam had the best time splashing with his blue ball.
Our neighbors invited us to the Demolition Derby. Zo LOVED it. He sat by the girls the whole time and intently watched the crazy loud cars all night. This is definitely the red neck event of the summer.

We made the insanely long drive to Utah at the end of the summer. The way there got pretty ugly around 9pm. Liam had been sick so we gave him some Benadryl. Turns out it has the opposite affect on him and so he was wired until about 11pm. There was a lot of screaming during that time. While we were there we visited my parent's house in Fairview. Zo had the time of his life. He fed the goats, picked apples, helped milk the goats, rode the 4-wheeler multiple times a day, watered the chickens, gathered the eggs, rode the horses, rode the plasma cars, and fell in love with his Grandpa.

I went on a beautiful horse ride with my dad up Fairview canyon. I must say it took awhile to get used to riding a horse again, and I was unexpectedly sore the next day. But it was so fun riding horses again!

We went to Tepanyaki Steak House with our friends from PA school, and sadly none of us remembered to take a picture. We had so much fun with them.

Sarah and Blake got married, and the ceremony was absoltely beautiful. It was great that we got to be with them on their special day.

I ran my first 5k while we were there, and just yesterday I ran my second. Times haven't been posted yet but I'm hoping I beat my previous time.

We also got together with the old house boys from BYU. We barbequed, played football, and got shakes at Artic Circle. Then we watched the game at my sister's house.

Liam turned 1 on Sept. 20th! We celebrated with cake and presents. He is such an easy going kid and follows Zo everywhere, even though Zo beats up on him a lot. He is always smiling and always on the go. He loves to play with Zo, especially in the rocks. He can say a few words like ma ma, da da, bye, and hi. I think he has also started saying, "What's this?" He loves to play the piano and had started to dance. He is a determined little guy and already will practice something until he masters it. He did that with walking and going down stairs. I love him so much!
I planned the Branch Halloween Party, and it went very well. We did a pot luck dinner, a gag raffle, fishing for prizes for the kids, a cake walk, and a trunk or treat. I made homemade root beer, caramel popcorn, and cupcakes that had little ghosts on the top made out of meringue. Zo was a cowboy and Liam was a Karate kid.

My neighbor brought me tons of tomatoes this summer so I canned like crazy. I canned 14 quarts of tomato soup, 4 quarts and 3 pints of salsa, 3 quarts and 5 pints of chili sauce, 2 quarts crushed tomatoes, 3 quarts and 2 pints of spaghetti sauce. Plus I made a big batch of fresh salsa. I learned that as the jalepenos sit in the salsa they get hotter. Brother Harris was sweating as he ate it at the pot luck. He said he would have kept eating but he ran out of napkins to wipe of the sweat. Lorenzo described it as so innocent looking, but it's defintely not baby food. (Our friend, Blanca, says that if food isn't hot it's like baby food.)

Entertaining Liam

2011-05-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

No one can make Liam laugh as hard as Zo can...

Recent Romney Happenings

2011-04-27T11:19:00.000-07:00

I'll start with Zo getting his new bed a little while back. Liam was outgrowing the pack 'n play, so that meant Zo got booted out of his crib. He has done very well adjusting! It was fun going with Nancy to pick out his bedding, mattress, dresser, and nightstand. His walls are still bare, but that way they match the rest of the house:) I will decorate my walls someday, there are so many things to buy that it all just takes time!

A few pictures of Liam:

A rad tech that Miles works with had a play set that her kids had outgrown, and so she was wanting to sell it. It is pretty cute, and she gave us a pretty good deal. So two Saturday's ago Zo got a play set, and has really enjoyed it so far. Loves the slide, hates the swings. He had a good time helping his dad put it together.

Then came Easter and we had a good time on Saturday. We started with an Easter egg hunt, which Zo quickly got the hang of and had a lot of fun.

About 2/3 the way through he opened an egg and realized they were filled with candy! Best day ever! ("Until Halloween" Miles replied)

The rest of Saturday was spent out in the yard. We took a whole bunch of garbage to the dump, Miles tilled and filled the holes left by the U-Haul last year and planted grass on those patches.

As for Easter Sunday, the morning was a little crazy. Here's why:

6:15 - Zo wakes up and I lay in bed with him until 7 trying to get back to sleep. Did he fall back asleep? No.

7:15 - Liam wakes up. I feed and dress him. Then I cut up the Rice Krispie treats for primary.

8:10 - About to get in the shower when I check my phone. I see that I have a new email, and a new email on Sunday morning is never good. The pianist is sick so now I have to play for Sacrament. (We had a meeting that morning, so we have to leave by 9:00). I am now frantic as I start to try and practice all the hymns for that day. And as you know, piano is not my strong instrument. I practice for about 20 min. until I absolutely have to get ready. What gets left behind? A shower. Who needs them anyway?

Needless to say we did not get an Easter family picture, and now I'm really sad. We have no family pictures. I think we have one, and that was on Liam's blessing day. So pathetic! Sadly, me playing for sacrament, doing sharing time, making treats for primary, and playing piano for primary is not an unusual Sunday. I don't mind it that much, I just would appreciate some notice when I have to play!

After church we went to Nancy & Lorenzo's for Easter dinner. It was so yummy! Nancy made her famous roast, potatoes & gravy, corn, peas, and rolls. After dinner we colored Easter eggs because we didn't have time Friday night or on Saturday. Zo had a ton of fun!!

Happy Birthday to my little Valentine!

2011-02-14T13:16:00.000-08:00

Although we celebrated yesterday, today is Zo's birthday. He is 2 years old now! I just can't believe he's already a full-blown toddler (except for when he throws his tantrums - then I believe it). To celebrate his birthday many of the Romney family came over to our house. Jen, Jared, Adelyn, and JR couldn't make it because they have been deathly ill. We are sad that they are sick, and I know Zo loves his cousins and would have had a lot of fun with them.

We played with Zo and his new ball that Nanny gave him until dinner time.

Zo got hit with the ball so he...

tried to hit Naomi...

then hit Julie. (Sorry Julie!)

For dinner Lorenzo cooked his spaghetti, which Zo throughly enjoyed as usual. Then we opened presents, ate cake, ice cream, and cupcakes. The cake was my first attempt at doing a creative/themed cake. It turned out okay. I thought it was gross with the sprinkles and stuff on top which is why I made the cupcakes too. (Those were good:) )

Zo got some really great presents from his loving family. Thank you everyone for your love and gifts!

Lots of REALLY cute clothes (that he desperately needed) from Nanny.

A lovable, soft Buzz Light Year with blanket (that he took to bed that night:) ) from Benjamin and Kalie.

Books and a cool flashlight toy from Jen, Jared, Adelyn, and JR.

Tricycle!!!! From Grandma and Grandpa Olsen

A kid's pinic table with an umbrella from Mommy and Daddy

The bummer part was that by the end of his birthday celebration he had croup. I'm glad we celebrated a day early. Otherwise his birthday would not have very fun.

Zo is such a funny kid. He loves to clean. He gets upset if I take out the garbage without letting him help. When he makes a mess he gets out a rag and wipes it up. He can't sit on his high chair if it's dirty. It must be cleaned first!

He now loves his movies which include: How to Train Your Dragon, Toy Story 3, Over the Hedge, and Beauty & the Beast. He likes to watch "Super Why", "Sid, the Science Kid" (I'm so proud:) ), and "The Cat in the Hat". He likes Elmo, but otherwise does not like Seasame Street. He's starting to like coloring and will get into the drawer, get the crayons, some paper, and start drawing. He loves to count, but usually can't make it past one. He just says, "One" over and over again while you keep counting the stairs, toes, fingers, or whatever. (This can easily throw you off when trying to remember how many cups of flour you've added.)

He loves to all kinds of balls. Love to kick them, throw them, roll them, and spin them.

He LOVES cars. When he sees a truck or car pass on the road he says, "Beep, beep!". When we're in the parking lot and he sees a car he says, "Owie." This is because I tell him he has to hold my hand when we're in the parking lot because the cars can give him a big owie. He also knows that knives, lighters, and scissors are also owies. That still doesn't stop him from bringing them to me.

He loves to help with the dishes. I think he likes this one because he gets to play in the water in the sink.

All animals roar, with the exception of pigs and monkeys. He's starting to make their noises.

When he's scared he starts to pant and take really shallow breaths.

He loves Liam and likes to help. He will bring me Liam's pacifier and blanket. If Liam kicks of his blanket, Zo will go and put it back on him. Everything Liam does is, "foounny".

Zo LOVES his daddy and calls for him all the time during the day. He points at Miles' chair and says, "Daddy". Same with the front door, Miles' glasses, shoes, and other things Zo manages to find of Miles'.

Zo is obessessed with shoes. He is always trying to put his on him, mine on him, mine on me, or his on Liam. Last night when everyone was starting to leave, somehow he knew which shoes belonged to who. He got Jacob's shoes and brought them to him. He did the same with Julie's and Kalie's (I think). He loves to go outside and finally when it was slightly warm yesterday was so happy to be outside without his little fingers being in danger of frost bite.

I love this kid so much, as I know Miles does. My dad used to always tell me I would never know how much he loved me until I had children of my own. He was so right. Of course I love my parents, but the love that a parent has for their child is different. You are constantly serving that little person by doing EVERYTHING for them which results is a kind of love that is so deep and powerful that it makes me tear up just thinking about how much I love him. Happy Birthday Zo!

This is why I hate baking

2010-12-29T19:24:00.000-08:00

So lately I have been baking more, and thinking that it's not so bad. Mind you I mean baking, NOT cooking. But today I was reminded of why baking makes me sooooo mad.

Today is Miles' birthday. Happy Birthday sweetie! So for his birthday I am making his absolute favorite cake that his mom always made. It is really good, but it takes FOREVER. Nancy says she used to start the cake 3 days before Miles' birthday. So as you can see from the picture the cake did not come out of the pan, and now it is totally ruined! Crying, screaming, and cursing are all things I wanted to do. What are my options? Not having the cake or trying again tomorrow. I guess attempt #2 will start early tomorrow morning. So to everyone that's coming over tomorrow I apologize if I'm a little on the grumpy side.

P.S. Miles, I hope you know how much I love you if I'm attempting to bake this cake again!

P.S.S If anyone wants to get me those cake pans where the bottom comes off for my birthday, I'd be okay with that.

What happens when I'm in the shower...

2010-12-01T10:54:00.000-08:00

Yep, this is what I found when I emerged from my nice, hot, relaxing shower. Usually Zo is kicking the bathroom door, anxiously waiting for me to come out of the shower. Today was different. It was quiet when I was done. As all you mothers know, that means TROUBLE! And it did.

These are the thoughts/feelings that came through my mind:

I'm a little mad at all the food that he wasted.

What a mess!! I hate cleaning up eggs!

At least it wasn't on the carpet - Adelyn!

Can I really blame him? He sees me cooking all the time where I get to crack open the eggs and stir them around. What doesn't look fun about that?

Holy cow he is getting tall. Those eggs were way up on the counter, and he managed to reach up there and pull them down.

8 months later...

2010-11-22T18:27:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know, it's been 8 months. But in my defense my internet is ridiculously slow at uploading pictures, and pictures are the main reason most people look at blogs. (At least that's my main reason.) Now, thanks to Jen's infinite wisdom, I found out that you can upload multiple pics at a time so I can do something else while they load.

Most of the people that might look at my blog probably already know what's going on in my life, but for those who don't here's a quick update...

The biggest news is obviously the new addition to our family, Liam Ammon Romney, who was born on Sept. 20th. Before the delivery I was so nervous that I was going to have a hard labor like I did with Zo. Everyone kept telling me that it was going to be so different since it was my second and the tracks have been greased. (That's how my father-in-law put it.) I didn't really believe him, but he knows what he's talking about because it was such a different experience!! It was so much easier which in turn made my recovery so much faster.

Liam's baby blessing went so well. Miles gave a wonderful blessing. My sister, Floris, and her family came from Saint Louis to the blessing. Floris and I got to play "A Poor Wayfarying Man of Grief" for the special musical number. It was really fun to play her. Her son, David, is getting to be quite the photographer. He took those pictures below.

He is a very good baby, and we just love having him around. Zo definitely went through and is still going through a somewhat rough adjustment period. He can get pretty ticked off when he can't have my attention right when he wants it. But he's getting better. He is already a protective big brother. Yesterday, at church, someone was touching Liam's head and Zo leaped over to slap the person's hand away. I guess only certain people can touch his brother!

Zo likes to share with Liam. So cute, except for when it's a quarter that he's trying to shove in Liam's mouth.

Zo is quite the vegetable eater. He won't eat a lot of things, but he'll eat his green beans, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and most fruits. Here's him eating a whole tomato.

He also likes to clean. Too bad he like making messes more.

In other exciting news, at least for me, I bought a new car!! Miles told me I could get whatever car I want (within financial reason). Who could ask for a nicer husband! So I got the brand spakin' new 2011 GMC Terrain with leather seats, sunroof, programable lift gate, rearview camera, and more. I absolutely LOVE it!! I haven't had a car in over a year. Our '93 Honda just wasn't trustworthy. I didn't want it to break down with me and two kids in the car. So with my new found freedom I go to the gym every morning and to the store whenever I want!!

This month was also our Primary program, and somehow with only one practice we pulled it off. But apparently we believe in the same organism that existed in the primitive church. It was a little bit of a challenge filling the time since we only have about 12 kids in the whole primary. Just a little different than my sister's ward in Lehi that has over 200.

One Mistake I'll Never Make Again...

2010-03-12T10:08:00.000-08:00

I feel robbed. Robbed by H&R Block. I went there thinking they would be fairly inexpensive, fast, and easy. It was pretty fast, but the guy who did my taxes didn't know what some of the terms meant on the questionaire and had never done the sale of a house. Annoyed, yes, but he brought someone over who did know what they were doing to help.
After about an hour we were finished, and he told me how much I owed. I'm not even going to tell you how much because I feel ashamed that I didn't ask about their fees upfront and just assumed they would be reasonable. Let's just say it was A LOT! So now I'm pretty mad because this is seriously dipping into my valuable tax refund.
Today I decided to call the manager and give her a little piece of my mind. All she did was give me some lame excuse about coporate not lowering the fees, no matter how much they beg them. I told her how incompetant "Daniel" was, and how I am telling everyone how awful H&R Block is. Did she do anything to remedy the situation? Nope. Hence I'm spreading the word...

Don't ever go to H&R Block! Ever!!!

And that's all.

Baby Steps

2010-02-11T13:40:00.000-08:00

On Monday Zo took his first steps! It was so exciting! I had tried to get him to walk before, but he would just stand for a few seconds and then sit down. I think he was trying to impress his aunt Rebekah because when she came and visited, he magically walked! Here are two very short clips of him from last night.

The Mart

2010-02-03T18:00:00.000-08:00

On Saturday I finally went to Nebraska Furniture Mart, which I've been wanting to do for months. I went with Miles, Zo, Jen, Jared, Adelyn, and JR. We walk in and immediately we see the best vacuum ever made - the Dyson Ball DC25 (which I bought a few months ago). Miles only knew that I had spent "a lot". He saw the price tag and said, "You spent that much on a VACUUM?!?!" Thankfully Jen was there to justify my purchase and explain that you can either buy a crappy $200 vacuum every 2 years because it breaks so easily and quickly, OR you can buy a nice vacuum that will last a minumum of 10 years. At our last house we had a central vac, and I hardly ever vacuumed because the carpet attachment stopped working after about 8 months of living there. I have probably already vacuumed twice as much in the past 2 months as I did the whole 2 years we were in Idaho. I love my Dyson.

Anyway, back to The Mart. It was so fabulous, I can't even tell you how much fun this store is. It is HUGE! We were there for 1 1/2 hours and probably only saw 30% of the stuff. We found an office chair, TV, projector, and sectional that we want. All for really good prices too. I also found out that our last couch chafed Jen's arms, so we had to make sure to get Jen's approval on every couch we sat on to ensure it wouldn't chafe her arms like our previous one.

I love Nebraska Furniture Mart and want to go back and spend many more hours. Hopefully next time I go I'll have some money and I can actually buy something.

I also have to thank the men for coming with us and being really good sports. You're the best!

Come Back!

2010-01-29T18:56:00.000-08:00

I just feel the need to say that I REALLY miss the sun, and I REALLY want it to come back. I'm so depressed from all these cloudy days where I never see the sun. Plus it's freakin' cold here. So sun, please come back!

Mess Maker, Mess Maker, Make Me a Mess...

2010-01-26T10:47:00.001-08:00

He loves to shred the toilet paper into little tiny pieces.

Definitely his favorite cupboard.

Zo, Zo, Zo

2010-01-26T10:23:00.000-08:00

Zo will stand up in his crib because like most little kids doesn't want to take a nap. But after a little while he realizes no one is coming to get him, so he sits down. He refuses to lay himself down because he hates lying down. So he bobbes his head like a sleepy Bishop and falls asleep folded in half. I then have to come check on him and move him so that he doesn't wake up all cranky from being in that position. Funny, funny boy!

He LOVES hanging out with Dad. He can say, "Mum Mum" and "Da Da".

He can only wear this shirt around certain people.

You might live in the country if...

2010-01-05T13:07:00.000-08:00

You can't get broadband or DSL internet.
You have to read your own electric meter and then calculate your own bill.
Your trash service man owns uses his own truck for garbage pick-up.
You have a giant propane tank by the side of house.
Your church leader owns 20,000 - 30,000 rounds of ammunition.
Your friends can pay off their mortgage by selling their guns.
You can shoot a 30-06 on your own property.
The stores in town don't sell pita bread or Fresca.
You see deer just outside your window almost everyday.

Wax On, Wax Off

2009-10-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

Daniel: Hey, what kind of belt do you have?
Miyagi: Canvas. JC Penney, $3.98. You like?

Hiya!

He's so big!!

We went to the branch Trunk or Treat last night. For the first time ever Zo bawled when a stranger held him. It was kind of sad, but at least we know for sure that he knows who Mommy and Daddy are.

Happy Halloween!

The Show Me State

2009-08-27T13:41:00.000-07:00

First of all, I want to let everyone know the good news... Miles passed his PA certification exam! Yay!! Congratulations Miles! I knew you'd pass:)

Secondly, as you probably know we are now living in Marshall, Missouri. Miles, Rebekah, Rachel, and Mary all drove out here in the Cavalier and the U-Haul that was towing the Honda. I opted to fly, and Miles was nice enough to let me. A 3 hour flight is SO much better than a 20 hour drive.

Jen and Jared visited last weekend, and Zo and Adelyn really liked playing with each other.

Zo's new thing is to suck on his big toe. He doesn't get that flexibility from me!

Since we've been here the weather has been really pleasant. The only time it was really humid was when we went to Van Meter State Park, and that was because we were by some wet lands and a small lake. We went there Tuesday evening and played football, grilled some steaks, and played on the playground.

I am having issues putting up pictures so you'll have to go to my facebook page to see all the MO pics.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=136021&id=756584342&ref=mf

Closing Time

2009-07-31T14:04:00.000-07:00

Today was the closing event of the past two years - Miles' graduation from PA school. Yay!! I am so proud of him and very excited that he is no longer a student. The graduation ceremony wasn't long which was nice. The speaker was quite entertaining considering he said he could hear so-and-so's Kegels and told a medical version of snow white and the seven drug dwarfs. He also confessed of a prank he did while he was a PA student. Before a surgery patient went under anesthesia, he told the patient that if she saw a light at the end of the tunnel when they gave her the anesthesia that meant she lied about her weight. So he asked her if she had anything she needed to tell them before they put her under. He was definetely the most entertaining graduation speaker I've ever heard.

Now what to do to celebrate?! Last night we got together with our PA friends, played Halo 3 with 8 players on two TVs at our house during the afternoon. It was madness!! I don't play well with that many people. I think I disappointed Miles because usually with his friends I can actually hold my own. Not this time. then in the evening we went to a BBQ in Blackfoot where we ate, had fun talking, and played some kickball. I haven't played kickball since elementary school. It was very fun!! Tonight I think Miles wants to just relax unless he changes him mind.

I want to tell Miles congratulations, and that I love him!!! You've worked so hard these past two years and now it is paying off. I appreciate your willingness to provide a living for our family, and I'll try not to be a singularity that spends all your money before you even see it. :) But you never know what might happen when your mom and I go shopping in Kansas City!

"Closing time, every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end."

A Big Thank You!!

2009-07-16T12:41:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to thank everyone that prayed and fasted for Zo. We found out yesterday that the surgeon at Primary Children's Hospital said that Zo's head looks fine, and that he doesn't need surgery. What a relief!! He did say that if we wanted to look into getting one of those helmets to fix the shape of his head we could. We haven't decided about that. Anyway, I just wanted to let you all know the good news, and that without your fasting efforts, prayers, and faith, we might have received some not-so-good news. We love you all and appreciate your support and love!!

Turn Your Head and Laugh

2009-07-14T17:45:00.000-07:00

Zo was apparently in a very good mood tonight. While sitting on Miles' stomach, he was laughing hysterically when Miles would cough. "Why?" you ask? We have no idea.

He is already learning how to manipulate his parents. While we were at Sears last weekend he wanted out of his stroller. So what did he do? He started fake coughing. As soon as we got him out, he stopped. What a little stinker!

No More Super Baby!!

2009-07-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

Last week I reached a verdict. There will be no more "SUPER BABY!" (That's when I lift Zo up in the air and pretend he's "SUPER BABY!") This verdict came after I got spit up IN THE MOUTH for the SECOND TIME!! Most baby things aren't really gross to me, but spit in the mouth is absolutely disgusting!!! I cannot even tell you what a nasty taste it left in my mouth!! And of course it was on the day of his doctors appointment so I was dressed in a cute outfit with my hair actually done. So not only did it get in my mouth, but on my clothes and in my hair. YUCK!

Today was the day that Zo ate his first solid food. Hooray! For me it was very cute so I thought I would share the video even though it might be kind of boring for you. Although if you really love Zo you'll watch it! I don't think he has fully gotten rid of the reflex where he pushes everything out with his tounge, so a lot ends up on his bib instead of in his tummy.

Before the rice cereal

Eating the rice cereal... if that's not obvious.

As for other updates with Zo, he's more smiley than ever and is such a good baby. He was so patient when he was getting his CT. The radiologist tech wedged his head between this foam head thing so that he wouldn't be able to move it very well. But he kept trying to sit up, so she taped a towel around his head so that he couldn't move it in any direction. And just to be sure he didn't even wiggle, I had to hold his chin during the scan. He was so good, and I was so proud of him! And when he went to the doctor the week before and got his shots, he didn't even cry! He is going to be one tough cookie. Especially since Miles throws him around like a rag doll. :)

We heard back from the doctor earlier this week and found out that it's not the bones at the top of his head they are worried about closing early, but rather the two on the side. The radiologist saw the problem, but the doctor wasn't sure he agreed, so he sent the films off to a pediatric radiologist. That might take weeks to hear back from him/her.

I'm going to go pick a copy of the CT tomorrow so Miles can take it to the surgeon he is doing his rotation with. The surgeon offered to take it up to the radiologist and the neurologist and get their opinion. This is when I'm especially glad Miles is in the medical field!

As for the house, we have it listed with a realtor, but still haven't had any bites. Bummer!

And lastly, a few pics from the Fourth of July...

Mr. Giggles

2009-05-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

This is the first time Zo laughed. It was SO cute! And of course, it was with his daddy. He LOVES his dad and thinks he's the greatest thing ever.

Identical!

2009-03-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

I came across this picture of Miles the other day and holy cow! Zo looks just like him! Nancy has said that he looks so much like Miles when he was a baby, but I didn't truly believe it until I saw the picture. See for yourself!

MILES

Newest Addition

2009-03-05T16:21:00.000-08:00

Since I hardly ever update my blog, Miles suggested that maybe I use my blog as more of a family update. I agreed with him, so we'll see if I can keep this type of blog updated...

I thought I would start with Feb. 14th - the day Zo joined our family.

Saturday morning at 9am I started having what I thought were finally real contractions. They weren't too painful, and this time they were more in my back instead of all in front. So I started timing them and by about11am they were about 5-6 min apart. Miles wasn't sure whether I was feeling real contractions so he kept trying to get me to wait a littlelonger. But being a good husband he gave in and took me to the hospital. They monitored me for about an hour and then decided they would admit me. The contractions still weren't very painful, and I would just take deep breaths to get through them. By this time I was dialated to about a 4 or 5, and was still 75% effaced.

At about 3:30 they broke my water, and oh man that was weird! I thought it would be painful, but it wasn't. As soon as they broke my water the contractions got way more painful! I was thinking I was pretty tough, but now with these kind of contractions I wanted my epidural and I wanted it soon. (Now I was dialated to a 6 or 7.) It wasn't long after they broke my water that I received my epidural. Ah,what sweet relief! By about 6pm I was fully dialated and ready to start pushing. Well, they told me I was ready to start pushing. It didn't take long for the epidural to start wearing off. I could really feel all that pressure and urge to push, which is actually what I kind of wanted. I had no idea how tiring pushing is! I pushed as hard as I could for an hour and a half. By the end I was so tired and just wanted it to be over. I could feel the tears wanting to come as I was saying I didn't think I could push any longer. The nurse was using every trick in her book to get me to push correctly and to keep going as hard as I could. Who knew there was a correct and incorrect way to push!? The problem was, however, that I had a cold. So taking a deep breath in was quite difficult. Not only was I having a hard time breathing, but my blood pressure was high, my heartrate was into the 140's, and I was running a fever. So not only was I battling a narrow arch in my pelvis, but being sick while in labor. Not fun! While I was pushing, Zo got a little stressed and now there was meconium in the fluid. They didn't really worry about that too much because it happened when I was pushing. If it had happened earlier they would have worried, but this just meant that I wouldn't be able to hold him right away.

Finally it was done at 7:26, and Zo was born with the help of the vaccuum. I would not have been able to get him out otherwise. They immediately took him away and suctioned all that meconium out so it wouldn't get in his lungs. I felt so tired and so relieved it was over. I wasn't able to hold him right away, but Miles was, and he went to the NICU with him. It only took about an hour before he was in the well baby nursery. It was at this time I got to hold him for the first time, and oh how great was that! I immediately loved him so much and wanted to protect him. I couldn't believe that this little guy had been inside me and I had somehow gotten him out. He was so tiny, perfect, and completely innocent. He was the best Valentines gift I could ever receive.

Now he's almost 3 weeks old and still so cute. Last Friday he got circumcised which was really sad. I could hear him crying all the way down the hall. It's amazing how quick you can distinguish your baby's cry from other the other baby's cries. I wish they would have just done it at the hospital instead of waiting until his two week appointment. Anyway, we love him so much and are so glad he's a part of our family!

Miles is a great dad, although he already teases Zo a lot, which is kind of a good thing I guess because I get teased/tickled way less. Zo's nickname is "little windy". He takes after the Romney boys.

Obesity Tax

2009-01-01T21:48:00.000-08:00

We all know that obesity is a big problem in our country that is growing with each passing year. According to Science Daily, by the year 2030 86% of Americans will be overweight. Sick!! Well Governor Paterson of NY has a good idea to help with this problem and to help with the budget deficit. He is going to propose an 18% tax on sugary drinks like soda and sweetened juice. Milk, some juice, diet soda, and bottled water would be exempt from the tax. Astonishingly, 60% of New Yorkers said they would oppose the new tax. (Isn't that about the percentage of people that are obese?)

One of the greatest benefits of this tax would be children drinking less soda, which would mean a decrease in childhood obesity. Today, about 1/3 of kids are overweight, and research shows that the ONLY high-risk dietary practice that is linked to children being overweight is the consumption of sugary drinks (American Dietetic Association). I mean let's be honest, if a kid is given the choice between milk or soda, most kids will choose soda. So if that choice isn't there because it's too expensive, then great!

Opponents of the tax say the last thing the governor should be doing is putting a heavy tax on the people. Well this tax isn't a tax you have to pay like property tax or income tax, so this argument is ridiculous! If a family is going through tough economic times, they shouldn't be spending their money on things they don't need - like soda. The Health Commissioner of NY put a video on YouTube, supporting the new tax. It's amazing what those few extra calories every day or week will add on. The link is below. It's a little dry, but very informative.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARMgjdbY93o

The Best Childhood Toy Ever

2008-10-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

Last week I went to an inservice at my school where Dr. Roger Taylor was the presenter. In his presentation he talked about how kids today don't play the way we used to play when we were kids. They don't use their imaginations or any sort of creativity. They sit inside and watch TV or play video games. He then showed a picture of a cardboard box. Oh the memories that came flooding back to all of us that were in the room! This ordinary box was transformed into a speedy car, a drive through restaurant, a dream home, and so many other things.

I remember a certain large box I had as a child that I absolutely loved. I played with it non-stop for weeks. Surely my parents had noticed how much I loved this box. But no! One day without my permission my dad needed a place to put the newborn chicks. And what did he use? My box! It was the best toy I ever lost.

So kids don't need all these fancy toys that light up and make noises. All they need is a box.

And Jen, your pictures on facebook inspired me to write a blog about this. :)

Sugar and Spice or Snails and Puppy Dog Tails?

2008-09-17T14:54:00.001-07:00

First of all, this is my first time doing two posts in one day. Wow! I know.

Tomorrow I go to have my ultrasound where I get to find out whether it's a boy or girl. I know there's a chance that I won't even find out, but I am really hoping that the baby cooperates. For years I have said that I don't know what to do with boys, so I would prefer to have mostly girls. But lately I think I've really come around to liking these baby boys. Even though I wouldn't get to put cute bows in their hair or dress them in really cute dresses, I think I would very happy with having a boy. Plus every person I meet tells me how much easier boys are to raise. They don't have the mood swings that girls do, and they are just all around much easier. I wouldn't know since my older and only brother is about 15 years older than me. I grew up with all girls, and that's all I know.

On the other hand I have always wanted a boy. At least for the first child. I think it's the traditional side of me that wants them to take care of their younger siblings and there's whole birthright thing. I also want a boy so Miles can have a son, and he can teach him all about sports and how to be tuff. I would love to be able to go to my son's football games, basketball games, or whatever sporting event he's in.

Basically what I'm trying to say is that for the first time in my life I would love having a boy, and that no matter the result tomorrow I'll be happy!

Belly Rubbing

2008-09-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

I knew that when I got pregnant I would be confronted with this issue at least once, if not often. The issue of people touching my belly. There are two types of people that touch bellies - those that ask if they can touch, and those that don't ask and just start touching.

Just this week I have had former students start touching by stomach. I'll see them in the hall, and they stop to talk to me. Of course they are all very excited I'm pregnant which is really quite cute. But then, all of a sudden, my belly is being touched! And it's not just being touched sometimes, it's being rubbed! I don't want to hurt their feelings (by the way all these instances have been with formal female students), but I don't really enjoy them rubbing or touching my stomach. So what do I do? Do I rudely tell them, "Please don't touch my stomach"? Or do I just suffer through? And what about those that do ask? If they are really creepy I have no problem saying no. But what about those that are really sweet, but I just don't want touching my stomach?

What do I do! I still have 22 weeks to go. I'm thinking I should wear the shirt shown above. I like green.

Disclaimer: I am totally okay with family and close friends touching my stomach, so don't take offense.

I'm It!

2008-09-05T17:26:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I got tagged by Jen Romney and will thus finally update my blog. Here are a few updates:

1) To the blogging world:

In case you didn't know I am prego. I'm due Feb. 20th, and I find out in 2 weeks what we're having. Super excited! I can't find my camera at this moment, so I'll post pics as soon as I find it.

2) School started again, and in case you don't know, I teach at American Falls High. On the first day of school I was calling roll and came across the name "Dalton". I saw two hands go up - one near my desk where I was standing, and the other in the far back corner of the room. So I said, "Dalton D.?" It was the kid who was closest to me. Then I got the other Dalton and the other hand went up again. So I said, "There she is!" The class starts chuckling and I ask them what I did. They proceed to tell me that Dalton is a boy. Holy crap! That's an awkward moment! How was I supposed to know? All I could see was long brown hair! So we make a joke out of it and I tell them all how I'm no longer using the personal pronouns "he" and "she". From now on I'm calling everyone "it".

I think the kid has forgiven me and seems very nice to me. I'm just hoping it's not some fake facade and one day he's going to come and stab me when I'm all alone in my classroom. (The picture is not of Dalton by the way, but the hair is very similar.)

3) I am certified to teach chemistry at the secondary level (grades 6-12). As of last the state of Idaho has decided that I am not "highly qualified" to teach physical science, which is basic chemistry and physics. Don't these people have any common sense? If I'm qualified to teach upper-level chemistry shouldn't that also make me qualified to teach an introductory chemistry class? Oh, and I'm supposed to be mentored for a year from the biology teacher who is endorsed in physical science but hasn't taught it in over 20 years. Nice.

4) I do an assignment with my physical science classes at the beginning of the year where they have to investigate a double murder. This double murder however involves Toucan Sam and Pop Krispie. I go on an on about how the murder was on the news and that I've been working with the authorities on possible suspects. They include Captain Crunch, Tony the Tiger, etc. So this is a silly joke, right? Not to some. About 5 minutes into my story of the murder, a blonde freshman girl raises her hand and asks, "So we're not going to have those cereals anymore?" It was such a classic freshman moment!

5) Like Jen I too did a pagent when I was in high school. But mine wasn't really a pagent, it was a "scholarship program"!

And now I tag the person who let everyone know I freak dance - Miles Romney at the City Fathers blog. :)

Personal Bubble

2008-07-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

So I was at Walmart a little while ago and all the lines were crazy long. I usually don't use the self check-out line because the people there are totally incompetent. This time however there was a guy who was almost finished, so I jumped behind him. As I was waiting, a guy and his three teenager daughters got in line behind me. At first I thought he was so close so that the traffic behind him wouldn't be hindered. So I kept sneaking forward, but so did he. His voice was so loud in my ear - I'm pretty sure I could feel his breath on my neck.

Well finally it was my turn. I only had 3 items. His cart was totally bumping into mine, and his daugthers kept coming closer too. Finally, when I was paying I had to use my wallet as a shield when entering my pin. Oh my gosh! Haven't these people ever heard of a personal bubble!!!

I was so annoyed that these people had invaded my private space. Especially when someone is doing a financial transaction where they have to use their pin!

I know in other countries personal bubbles are a lot smaller, and maybe I'd get used to it. But as for now, please keep out of my personal bubble!!!

P.S. This doesn't really apply to family or close friends - just people I don't know or don't like - especially people I don't like.

Guns In the House

2008-06-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

On the topic of guns, I don't really understand why some people are so avidly against owning any sort of gun, especially if you have kids. I know that there are many many accidents involving kids and guns where one or more of the kids was either injured or killed. But I don't think it was just having a gun in the house that caused the accident. I think it's a combination of the kid's personality and how the parents handle having a gun in the house. I don't have kids yet, but I was raised in a house with guns, and I think you can have guns in the house without having your kids get into trouble with them.

I think the trick in this situation is to educate your kids and to not make the gun like it's some secret/special toy. Take your kids out with guns and teach them gun safety. Teach them how to safely handle a gun, shoot a gun, and act around guns. Also, I think if you make it known that you'll take them out to shoot regularly, then they won't be tempted to take the gun and go shoot it without you. This way, when their friends come over and want to see the gun, your kid will know to say, "Yea, when my dad gets home he can show us his guns. He'll even take us shooting if we ask."

So yea, I'm one of those parents that will have a whole bunch of guns in the house with kids. And if you are so terrified of guns that you won't even be near one, I think you are just ignorant.

High School Drama

2008-06-10T18:14:00.000-07:00

As the school year drew to a close, I reflected on the many counts of high school drama I saw my students encounter throughout the year. The hook-ups, the break-ups, the cheating, the sports, the girl fights, the boy fights, the homework, the blah blah blah. Oh and we can't forget the tremendous sadness that comes with graduating and or just not seeing all your friends for a whole summer.

Then I was reminded of my own high school experience. I know I went through all that drama (or most of it), but as I look back I can't help but think, "Why couldn't you have just been more mature?" And then I ask that same questions of my students. I know those feelings they are experiencing, but sometimes it's hard to actually sympathize with them and not just laugh hysterically at them. I'm not sure if what I feel is actually coming across clearly, but I hope you get my point. I know that the high school drama is hard, but can't you just get over it and grow up? Hopefully I'll be able to muster up more sympathy when I have teenagers of my own. As for now, however, I'm content with laughing and getting a kick out of my students "pain".

Family Pet

2008-05-18T19:04:00.000-07:00

Someday when Miles and I have some land, we will definitely have a pet. I have compiled two lists: those pets I would have and those I wouldn't.

Pets I Would Like:

Sheltie - this is the dog that I grew up with. They are are like a collie, but smaller.
Yellow Lab - they are the classic family dog.
Golden Retriever - these puppies are SO cute!

Cool fish like the pretty tropical fish. Beta fish would be especially cool because then I could watch them fight the other fish.

Horse - I really like horses, but they are high maintenance. So we'd need lots of money and lots of land.

Puppy - If I could have a puppy that would stay a puppy, it wouldn't matter what breed.

Pets I Would NOT Like:

Any sort of cat - I am about the farthest thing from a cat person.

Chihuahua - not a big fan of small dogs or a dog that reminds me of Taco Bell everytime I see it.

Bulldog - I think these dogs are just plain ugly

Afghan Hound - talk about a lot of hair! Too much and again, way too ugly.

Boring fish like guppies or gold fish.

Birds - they are loud and poop a lot.

Any sort of rodent - i.e. hamster, mouse, rat, etc.

My So-Called Asanine Argument

2008-05-09T09:47:00.000-07:00

During my prep hour I have two independent study students whom are both girls. I usually let them listen to their ipods while they work. I heard them mention ICP (Insane Clown Posse) the other day and asked them what they thought of them. One responded that she did not like them while the other said she did like them. As I hear their reponses my mind was flooded with thoughts of disgust towards this band. I first learned of them at a drug/gang conference I attended last fall. For those of you not familiar with ICP, here's a little background before I continue:
In 1991 Joseph Bruce, a founding member of ICP, had a dream where "a caravan of strange and powerful beings" appeared to him in what appeared to be a traveling circus (Wikipedia). As he talked to his psychologist about the dream, he was advised not to act out these violent instructions but rather express them through music. So he did. He and his band members set out to spread their message of "reform". Each album revolves around a joker character who has a specific message on how to change your ways before the end comes. Here's a sample of one of their songs entitled "The Thrill of the Kill":

I'm shakin' so fast that you could say I'm vibratin'
There's a sickness in my head a hunger escalatin'
There's no other ending to this s**t so why the f*** I'm waitin'
Hop into the darkness for my homicidal break-in
I thought it out for many weeks I even told a reverend
But he ain't even listenin' 'cause I'm over elevenI told my girlfriend and she just said it was cute
Then asked me how she looked in her f*** me boots and took off
[Shaggy 2 Dope:]Sweatin' and my chest is burnin' like I'm on fire
So much pressure in my head I could blow air in through a car tire
I'm about to burst pop shatter explode
And everybody's pokin'sticks at me like they wanna splat me
[Violent J:]No one sees me when I creep I stay behind s***
Check for open windows I scale across and climb s***
Get inside and choke an old lady in her Craftmatic
And like fresh oxygen to an asthmatic I get a thrill
[Chorus:]Every time that a door gets closed. The thrill
Every time that the reaper shows. The thrill
Every time that the red blood flows. The thrill
I gets my proper dose
Every time, (every time) every time (the thrill)Every time, (every time) every time (the thrill)Every time that the red blood flows. The thrill

Okay, so now that you are totally disturbed, back to my story. I proceeded to tell this student what I thought of ICP and how no one should listen to music that has those kind of lyrics. When a person listens to violent, sad, happy, humorous lyrics, their actions and thoughts are influenced. She then told me my argument was "asinine". How can you say that music doesn't affect you?!! Then the thought came to mind, "So maybe that's why you're such an angry teenager!"
The APA (American Psycological Association) did a study on violent lyrics and found that they do increase aggressive thoughts and feelings ("Exposure to Violent Media: The Effects of Songs With Violent Lyrics on Aggressive Thoughts and Feelings," Journal of Personality and Social Psychology Vol. 84, No. 5.). I've always felt that music greatly influences the way a person thinks, acts, and interacts with other people. And yes, I do think that ICP influenced those boys to kill Cassie Jo Stoddart here in Idaho. They wore clown masks and repeated lyrics of ICP as they went to murder Cassie Jo. I'm not saying ICP made those boys commit the crime, but I don't think ICP had nothing to do with it. Whether you're listening to happy, violent, funny, or spritual music, an impression is left on your thoughts, feelings, and tendencies.

How's THAT for a first blog!