The Oakey Family

2011-09-02T20:30:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: These were all taken on my phone. Hence, our beauty.

Well, I'm a horrible blogger, but this can't go un-blogged. [Did I just make up a new word??]

August 24th marked our fifth year of marriage. Five whole years. We celebrated early by going to a Michael Buble concert [which was a.w.e.s.o.m.e.]. We also went out to eat a few days after and had great conversation. I emphasize this because I had an epiphany while eating. When Makay and I were first married eating out was completely different than it is now. In my family, eating out is an occasion, an experience. A time to connect, bond, create memories. Ya know, the right way to do it. [sly smile happening over here] The first time we went out to eat as a married couple we were in and out of the restaurant in 30 minutes. For r.e.a.l. This includes the time to be seated, order, eat, and figure the tip. I was heart-broken.

Didn't he want to talk to me [thought in a petty, 16 year-old voice]? Sniff. Bond? Have a conversation? Didn't he love me?? Okay, so I over-exaggerated, over-thought, and over-analyzed. I'm a woman, okay!

Now, compare to the latest experience. Ahem. I dress up, feeling quite lovely. We walk out the door. "Oh, shoot, should I have dressed up?" says an alarmed husband as he looks upon his smokin' wife. If you don't like it, get your own commentary. It's my memory! "Oh, this old thing? I just threw it on, no worries, Love." It's a lie and he knows it. I bought the outfit like three days before and bragged about the great deals. He smiles and walks me out the door.

We say goodbye to the kid [okay, my sweet little munchkin who I love and adore] and head out. We go to a nice little Italian restaurant, Asiagos, in down-town Boise. We were the only ones sitting outside. How romantico. I order my usual Diet Coke with lemon. He does the same. I was shocked, he usually goes for the lemonade. Then we ate and talked....

ate and talked..

ate, talked, ate talked, ate... talked ....

for two entire hours. That's right ladies and gents. My love and I had a conversation for two hours. A real, deep, meaningful conversation. That's when it hit me. My husband is awesome. For r.e.a.l.

Then we walked around down-town and had great time. Despite the three Diet Cokes which were starting to catch up with me.

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Let's get real now. That story ended up being longer than expected. For posterity sake... as well as for my own [especially durning those moments when we're both saying, "I have to be married to you for eternity?!"] I'm going to recount a few of the things I've learned these past years...

[1] Marriage is a more joyful experience when the Lord is involved. As I find myself praying for Makay [especially during the difficult times of marriage] the Lord blesses me with a heightened level of love for him. I can't even explain it.

[2] Serve. Truly serve. It's not a game. It's just pure service. Charity, rather. Serve without expecting anything in return -- or keeping score.

[3] Communicate. Always communicate your needs; be respectful of your spouses needs -- even if you don't understand them. Understanding comes in time. Until then, just do because you love.

Cheesy line coming up I'm so blessed to have Makay in my life. He is more than I deserve. He is a spectacular dad, a strong leader, a faithful priesthood holder, an honorable man, and an loving husband.

Here's to five more

oh, times infinity

birthday | two

2011-05-18T07:33:00.001-07:00

Well, my munchkin is two. Time has passed quickly--too quickly.

Maddux had a combined birthday party with his friend, Jacob. They are only a day apart. Maddux is so lucky to have such a good, little friend and to be loved by his family. We ate some barbeque, opened presents, played in bubbles and finished with cupcakes and ice cream.

Maddux took most of his cues from Jacob until we brought out the cupcakes; he knew exactly what he wanted and dove right in. He's definitely his mama's baby.

I never knew happiness had a never-ending potential. I find myself feeling like he could never make me happier -- and then he does. He fills me like nothing else can. I still find myself watching him sleep during the night. Sometimes I pick up and rock him. His legs and feet dangle off the chair while his cheeks are smashed between my arm and chest. His little mouth hangs wide open. He's safe, and I want to keep him that way forever--right there in my arms where he can't be hurt. Of course, I know that can't be the case. Eventually he'll know what it feels like to be left out, have a broken heart, or even be disliked [though I can't imagine why anyone would dislike my little one]. My heart wrenches when I think about him experiencing these painful feelings. But, with these experiences comes growth, and in the end, that's truly what I want. I want him to grow into a strong, honorable, and dedicated man [who still loves and admires his mother, of course].

apologies if this ends up side-ways...

t.w.o.

2011-05-14T23:20:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here in bed. It's late, but I can't stop thinking about my little Maddux. He will be two on Monday. Two. I know "I just can't believe it" is cliche, but it's true. My mind just can't comprehend that two entire years have passed. I gave birth, nursed in the wee hours, and was overly extatic when he could sit up all by himself... now he's jumping off couches, scraping up his knees, and, to my great amusement, he gallops and jumps in order to get from A to B. The world is his trampoline.

I never knew being a mother would be so rewarding (pass me the butter because I am on a roll with these cliches). I truly am the happiest I've over been.

Happy birthday to my munchkin on Monday. He can lift me to a level of joy I didn't know was possible.

Miracles

2011-01-12T19:40:00.000-08:00

When I was reading my scriptures yesterday, I came across a scripture that made me sit back and ponder.

"And as sure as the Lord liveth, so sure as many as believed, or as many as were brought to the knowledge of the truth... according to the spirit of revelation and of prophecy, and the power of God working miracles in them—yea, I say unto you, as the Lord liveth, as many... believed in their preaching, and were converted unto the Lord, never did fall away."

I've known all of my life that miracles don't convert. We are constantly reading about people in the scriptures who experience grandiose miracles, and yet, when the hard times come, they fall away from truth. It's not the outward miracles that convert; it's the miracle that takes place within our hearts that brings conversion. As the previous scripture states, when "the power of God work[ed] miracles in them ... [they] never did fall away."

I have experienced two miracles in the past week I feel strongly I need to record and pass down to my babies. Though the miracles were 'outward,' I strive everyday to be sure miracles take place within. These experiences testified to me the great love my Father in Heaven has for me.

[ MIRACLE ONE ] One of my previous posts was about my sudden rush to the ER due to chest pain. A CT scan and many tears later we found out I had a condition called Costochondritis -- not that serious. Our non-serious visit ended with a $2200.00 bill that needed to be paid in full [no making payments] ... after insurance paid up. Honestly, our money is budgeted down to the coin until May ... when we won't have anything. $2200.00 wasn't money we had to spare. Past experience has taught us not to worry about money. As long as we are striving to be wise and paying our tithing, the Lord will intervene. We were anxious to see how He would do this.

After our Christmas/New Year's travels, we came home to find a letter from St. Lukes Hospital. We had been qualified for full financial assistance from the hospital. No reducations, no making payments, they paid the bill in full.

[ MIRACLE TWO ] After being diagnosed with stage 4 Colon Cancer, my dad's latest PET scan was clean! Tumor markers were 1.5. He will have two months of 'clean up' chemotherapy along with a reversal of the colostomy and then we're done. This is a miracle. Truly. His tumors still have an 80% - 90% chance of returning, but as of now, we are extremely optomistic.

It became very evident to me while attending the temple that his recovery is truly a miracle. I was overcome with gratitude and couldn't stop the tears from coming.

I'm so thankful for a Heavenly Father who is mindful of me. I pray I will always strive to live my life in a way that shows Him how grateful I truly am. I know the best way to show my gratitude is by opening my heart and allowing the Lord to work miracles within me.

Tender Mercies

2010-12-02T19:04:00.000-08:00

There are such good people in the world.

This time of my life and marriage has been so good. As Thanksgiving came and went I pondered on what I am truly thankful for. One of the items that came in at the top of my list was this: I am grateful to be young, married, poor college students with a little two foot shadow.

When Makay and I attended BYU-Idaho things were good. We were living in Makay's parent's Rexburg home, we had full ride scholarships, no children, and we were working hard in the summer. We had saved enough money to make it through our schooling as well as 'Limbo' year after graduation while awaiting to hear from dental schools. We never heard from any dental schools and plan B was being implemented ... with a new munchkin to accompany us. We moved forward with faith.

Fast forward to a few weeks ago. Savings and student loans were dwindling, but we had enough to make it Makay's next graduation. Things were looking good. An ER visit with accompanying bill later ... things weren't as smooth.

I've done everything I can to bring in money. I've opened two business that are moving along. With our savings and student loans we're able to pay the bills. I work work work all night... and I'm tired.

Fear has never really been apart of the mix. More of a curiosity. How is Heavenly Father going to get us through this? I know He can, but, how?

Time is passing and my eyes have been opened to the blessings from my Heavenly Father. It seems at every turn a new opportunity arises.

Tonight I got a call from a neighbor. "Someone just told me to tell you to look on your porch," she said. Huh. I open the door and there sat

2 bottles of peaches

2 bottles of pears

2 bottles of applesauce

2 bottles of beans

4 cans of soup

2 bottoles of barbeque sauce

laundry detergent 

dish soap

fabric softener 

and... $250.00 

I don't know who did it, but my heart is full. Full of thanks to my Father in Heaven for showing me His blessings. Full of thanks for those sweet people who followed promptings from the spirit. Full of thanks for the blessings that come from paying tithing.

"...prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it."

So yes, I am grateful to be a poor college student's wife. A poor young couple with child by our side. I have truly seen the hand of the Lord in my life, again and again and again. He has never ceased to amaze me ... and I know the blessings will only continue. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Capri

2010-11-13T15:43:00.000-08:00

My new niece! Capri Susanne Nielson.

I can't wait to

hold her, kiss her, twirl her, rock her and completely spoil her

during Christmas.

Two Giveaways

2010-11-09T18:07:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to let everyone know I have two giveaways going on...

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Christmas Card Giveaway

at http://zitzmanfam.blogspot.com/

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Infant/Toddler Neck Tie and Fabric Flower Giveaway

at http://marfmom.com/

[pictures in previous post]

2010-10-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

Introducing...

Lacey and I have joined forces and have decided to open an Etsy shop selling our munchkin creations.

We've searched and searched for just the right accessories for the little people in our lives, but have the most difficult time finding the things we want. We decided, ah heck, why not just make them ourselves? Enter Bubaloo and Co.

We primarily have handmade infant and toddler ties as well as fabric flowers; however, we hope to expand our inventory.

We're hoping to have a Christmas giveaway soon. Will you be interested in entering? Let us know...

Check out our Etsy shop for our other products:

www.bubalooandco.etsy.com

Chest pain and CT scans...

2010-10-22T00:28:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: This is a long post that was written so I won't forget. Don't feel like you have to read it. And, no, I didn't edit. Sorry.

"You need to go to the Emergency Room immediately." I never thought those words would be said to me. I even questioned the nurse and had her go back and talk to the doctor. After three separate calls, she again reaffirmed that yes, indeed, I needed to go to the ER.

It all started with a twinge in my left forearm, more annoying than painful. The next morning I awoke with a pain on the right side of my chest. The discomfort was minimal and was not constant. It felt like a pulled muscle. As the day went on and night approached the discomfort turned into pain. I waited three days before calling my nurse. It was then she delivered the doctor's orders to go the the ER.

Makay and I dropped Maddux off at a friend's house [thanks, LoraAnn] and headed to St. Lukes and checked in to the ER. After an hour and half of fishing on Makay's Ipod, I asked how long the typical wait time was. The look I got in return was pure confusion. It turns out they removed my name from the list an hour and twenty minutes earlier because they thought I left. What a great start.

I finally got back to see the doctor. Doctor Burmingham. He was pretty confident there was nothing to worry about, but given my genetic history of blood clots, he decided to do a blood and urine test.

Wait. Wait. Wait. Fish on Makay's Ipod. Wait. .. ..... ...

The results were not as promising as the doctor, or I for that matter, would have hoped. This is when the tears started coming. Up to this point I kind of felt I was just participating in some routine check-up [which, I know, I was in the ER so I shouldn't have felt that way, but I did]. The results came back indecisive. There was no definite no to there being an existing blood clot.

I was then told a CT scan was what needed to happen next. The tears really started falling now. We can't afford a CT scan.

Crying. Crying. Crying....

I asked the doctor [through sobs] if Makay and I could have a minute to discuss whether or not we should proceed with the CT scan. This is the moment I fell in love with my doctor. He looked at me like my dad would and said, "Okay, it's time to put the doctor aside and play dad for a minute." He told me it was important for me to get the CT scan; if there was a clot it could be very dangerous. The hospital has reserved funds for starving students like us and all would be well in the end. He told us he wouldn't charge us for seeing him. I am so thankful for his generosity. I pray in the future we will be able to pay it forward.

My mom, dad, sister, and Makay continued to ask me the same question, "What are you most worried about." The money. The money! That's what I said, but I lied. Honestly, I have never feared financial difficulties. The Lord has always blessed us with the necessities, and I know He always will. The money was an easy place to pinpoint worries. Looking beyond the money meant looking at the IV's and the EKG test wires. It meant coming to the realization that I was about to be wheeled into some room to undergo a CT scan.

Enter Nicole. The transporter. She wheeled my bed to the elevator, desperately trying to make conversation. I am so grateful for that. The last thing I wanted to do was sit in silence and let my mind get the best of me. We finally arrive at our destination: the room of the CT scan.

She asked if I wanted to be lifted out of the bed only to lie back down on the adjoining bed or if I could stand on my own. Please, let me stand on my own. I'm already in this sickly hospital gown. Just let me stand by myself and cling onto some sort of normalcy.

They did a test run first. I was shaking so badly the nurse asked if I was cold. I felt like I was coming off my epidural. My nerves were getting the best of me. Think of something happy, I thought. My Maddux was the first thing that came to my mind. Bad idea. My mind went racing with thoughts of my little guy growing up without me. Yes, very bad idea, indeed. I resigned to thinking of the color black. There are no memories attached to this color. No emotions. It helped calm me down a little.

They injected me with the dye needed for the scan. It burned going in. I took a deep breath and then exhaled a metallic taste which was followed by a severe hot flash. I was informed these would all be side effects of the injection. It was over in a matter of minutes.

Wait. Wait. Wait for results. Wait. Wait. Avoid phone calls. Wait. Wait. Wait.

Finally. Enter Doctor Burmingham.

No blood clots. He was smiling; I was smiling... and crying. Makay was content.

I was diagnosed with Costochondritis. It is an inflammation of the cartilage in the chest between the ribs and the sternum. From what I understand, it's a condition I will have forever. It will come and go. Each 'episode' can last up to six weeks.

It was a scary and expensive day [it looks like we spent our Christmas in the Er :) ], but I'm grateful for a peace of mind. I'm grateful for my strong husband. I'm grateful for my little Maddux who can make me smile no matter what.

Don't sweat the small stuff because ya know what... it doesn't matter.

[insert comical title here]

2010-10-13T22:43:00.000-07:00

Dear posterity,

sorry I suck at journaling.

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It's been 4.5 months since my last post. People continue to ask me about my dad's health and our family. I keep waiting for them to update their own blog [yes, mom and dad, this is directed at you], but they don't. How are we supposed to make a book from your experiences if you don't write them down... huh?! Maybe if enough people comment about how much they want to hear from them, they will get their little bums in gear.

The Fun Wagon [aka the Alphamale, aka my dad] is doing really well. His tumor markers are reading 3.5. When he was first diagnosed they were at 68 [right, dad?]. Regularly, in a healthy person, these numbers are between 2 and 5. So, this means all of his tumors have shrunk and are no longer producing. Date night with the surgeon will be on December 2. They will be removing the tumor from the liver as well as a cancerous lymph node by the aorta. The removal of the latter was no even possible four years ago. We all feel blessed he is a candidate.

Recovery is much for difficult from this surgery than it was from the last. The doctor will be operating on two systems instead of one. Though it will still take the same amount of time to fully recover [six weeks], it will be a rougher road. Your prayers are appreciated. Thank you.

The reversal of the Colostomy will hopefully occur sometime in the middle of next year.

My dad's side effects from the chemotherapy are increasing. Especially the neuropathy in his hands. However, all things considered, he is doing great.

My parents are doing well. They have both been called to teach Gospel Doctrine in their new ward [I know, I wish I could be in that class, too]. It's nice to have them closer.

I know many of you are also wondering about my mom. She is amazing. She will be the first to admit that the initial adjustment to moving was extremely disorienting and overwhelming. She is even stronger than I knew her to be. The Lord and His blessings have been very evident in her life as well as each of our lives. I struggle with being an adult child.

It has been interesting to watch my parents from an adult-daughter's perspective. I am a daughter, but I so crave to be a friend, a confidant. How am I to be seen as both?

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My little Maddux is doing well. He is giving kisses, pointing up to the sky when he hears an airplane, laughing at dogs, playing in the toilet :( ... and worst of all, hitting. How do I get him to stop hitting? Most of the time they are love taps, but sometimes ... sometimes that little munchkin hits on purpose. I can see it on his smug little face. I tried to put him in time out one time. I sat him on the toilet, looked in his eyes and said, "You are in time out, mister!" Obviously I need to start working on my poker face because I busted our laughing when he started smiling at me.

It's amazing how I can be so frustrated with him one moment, only to be so in-love with him the next. A parent's love is truly a mystery.

My smokin' hot husband is doing well as well. He is laying right next to me at this moment, romantically serenading me with his snores. Poor guy. He's so tired. He is such a hard worker. School is going really well for him. He was just awarded a $1000.00 scholarship. I'm so proud of him. Next semester [last one, yay!] he has to complete 250 clinical hours. Ugh, my feet hurt for him just thinking about it.

He has been called to be the Varsity coach as well as the Teacher's Quorum Advisor. He has done such a good job with the young men. He goes above and beyond. This is why I fell in love with him. Now, I'm not going to be an 'ooey, gooey, I have a perfect marriage' blogger, but I don't give that sweet lover of mine enough credit. He truly is the best man I know. He is an amazing husband and father. I'm blessed to have him.

As for me, I'm amazing. Uh-huh. I ran an entire 5k! Okay, okay. So I know that's not amazing, but it's cool, right? Very cool. Yeah, I'm awesome.

Thanks, LoraAnn. I seriously could not and would not have done it without you. You truly are the amazing one.

2010-06-01T21:20:00.000-07:00

........ i'm going to become ..........

I'm going to become that woman I want to be.

I'm going to wake up at 6:00 and study my scriptures.

I'm going to be that woman of God I want to be.

I'm going to strengthen my body; for, the body and the soul are the spirit.

I'm going to s t r e t c h myself.

I'm going to seek and pray for ways to serve those around me.

I'm going to expand my knowledge.

I'm going to rock my baby.

I'm going to m.a.k.e. l.o.v.e with my husband.

I'm going to be an active participant in my life.

I'm going to become.

........ i'm going to become ..........

2010-05-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

My sister took this absolutely A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E pictures of Maddux in Ohio. He's sporting fabulous ties made my this fabulous person.

Birthday | Ohio

2010-05-20T20:37:00.000-07:00

I must first apologize to all of my die hard fans [all seven of you... okay, okay... all three of you. Okay, fine, sorry mom] for the long wait. After all, I know my life and well-being is the constant worry of humankind.

I will be posting about the following:

[1] Maddux's birthday
[2] Going to Ohio | the Fundraiser/Benefit

Here we go....

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[1] Maddux's Birthday

Happy birthday, dude! I can't believe my little one has turned one already. ONE! All throughout the day I recounted the memory of May 16, 2009. It seems like eternities ago I was in the hospital, having contractions, and asking my nurse for a Diet Coke with some limes. The doctor put that 21 inch, 7 lb 4 oz slime ball on my chest, and I fell in love. The concept of love amazes me. I look at this little 21 pound chunk and my eyes fill with tears. I can't believe he's mine. He's all mine... forever.

The birthday event went well. Our awesome upstairs neighbors came down for cake and presents.

Present: success.

Balloons: success.

Cake: success.

Birthday hat: double failure.

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Maddux grows older every day [okay, obviously]. I can't believe how fast he is growing! He's not a baby anymore--he's a little boy. He's so close to walking; He jabbers all the time [which I love]; He is content to play by himself; He is always laughing and smiling; He's drinking whole milk [I totally miss nursing; I loved it.]; He gets SO excited when hears the water on the tub turn on; He crawls on his feet and hands--not his knees; He loves spinning in circles on the ground; HE LOVES BEING OUTSIDE.

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[2] The Benefit | Ohio

Going to Ohio was a breath of fresh air--mingled with an occasional gulp of unexpected car exhaust.

I vividly remember walking in the front door being so anxious to see my dad. I had butterflies in my stomach. I couldn't wait for him to open his big, strong arms and give me one of his bear hugs. I turned the corner and felt like a tsunami hit. The butterflies were gone and replaced by a pit--a churning lump in my stomach. I forced myself to smile and breath. There was the strongest man I knew. He was sitting on the leather sofa. Pale. Extremely fatigued. Eyelids drooping. Forced smile. Skinny. Cold sweats. It took everything in me to not barricade myself in the bathroom and cry. The recovery from surgery was taking a toll I hadn't expected. My mom's preparation of 'your dad's having a more difficult day today' didn't do him justice. Thankfully, that was the worst day.

I could see him improve every day. Over the next two weeks his recovery took a launch into spectacular. When I left, I was leaving the dad I remembered. The dad without cancer. The dad who slides into the kitchen with his socks. The dad who makes jokes. The dad who dances and sings down the stairs in the morning.

I was surprised at the worry I felt for my mom. I could only detect so much over the phone. To be in Ohio, in her element, was difficult. My mom--the most emotional being I know--was at times void of emotions. Numb. That was hard for me to see. It was a roller coaster.

The benefit was amazing. HUNDREDS [and I do not use that number lightly] of people came to support my parents. To read more about the benefit, see my sister's blog here.

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Maddux thought my dad was hilarious. Every time my dad would come in the room Maddux would light up inside and give the biggest smiles a little one-year-old could muster.

He loves his grandma. He will always sit and relax with grandma.

Uma is only one who can rock him to sleep.

The wonderful women I had so much fun with.

2010-05-12T15:16:00.000-07:00

... G I V E A W A Y ...

One special person will be awarded a $25.00 credit to EllaMae Designs! All you have to do is like my EllaMae Designs Facebook page. Winner chosen via random.org in 24 hours!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/EllaMae-Designs/118470534834044

[hope to see you on Facebook soon]
Alli

[ps] I know, I know... I KNOW! I have a lot to update about...
       [1] going to Ohio
       [2] Maddux is turning one
       [3] how my dad's doing.

I'll update after the giveaway!

keep your arms and feet inside and enjoy the ride...

2010-04-12T21:05:00.000-07:00

I am overwhelmed with all of the love and support my family and I have received from all of you. Wow. Thank you so much for your words of comfort. You have helped us to stand when we felt as if we could only crawl. Thank you, thank you, thank you...

My dear neighbor from South Jordan reminded me via a comment on my previous post of one of the many mottos my dad has: keep your arms and feet inside and enjoy the ride. When I read this I was transported back to the time of balloon blankets, ladybug outfits, basketball drills in the basement, daddy-daughter dates, and popsicles in the backyard on the hill. This saying was apart of my childhood. I can see my dad literally pulling in his arms and legs when he says it. I always found it amazing that he could enjoy the ride during times that were so painful and difficult: embarking into the unknown and moving to Ohio, enduring lay-offs, paying for my wedding when there seemed to be no money. He enjoyed the ride. What amazes me now is that he is still enjoying the ride. Even though he has every reason to be mad, angry, frustrated, and numb... he's not. He is still able to comfort me when I should be comforting him. He hasn't forgotten or temporarily stepped down from his role as a father. In fact, he's stepped up, if that's even possible. He's still wrapping my pink and green balloon blanket around me and telling me no to be scared or frightened. I look up and see my big, strong daddy, and he's still able to reach out and comfort his little girl. He amazes me every day.
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Medical Update:
I keep trying to come up with an analogy for this horrid disease, but there is nothing to compare it to. For a moment I thought I could compare it to a battle--war rather--but that's not even a fair comparison. At least the two conflicting parties in a battle have some idea of the upcoming atrocities. This disease hit us when we weren't looking. We're the quarterback who thought he was being protected when [[[ bam ]]] you're on your back.

My dad had surgery. The tumor was removed from his colon; it was much larger than expected. We had a small glimmer of joy when we learned the cancer had not spread to his bladder. Hallelujah. However, the joy paled in comparison to the pain we felt after we learned the cancer spread to the muscle. The doctor found many small tumors in the muscle wall of the abdomen. This is much more difficult to treat.

If you want a more detailed report, my sister and I have created a blog for this family 'journey' of ours. www.jayandsusan.blogspot.com. There is a button on the left side of my blog.

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To all of my Ohio friends, the good people in Ohio have helped Lacey and I put together a fundraiser for my dad. There will be food, games, carnival, silent auction, and much more. It will be a night of family, food, fun and support.

April 23, 2010 | 5:30pm
642 Theron Drive | Pickerington, Ohio | 43147

Praying in Circles

2010-04-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

When I was little, I used to kneel down on the floor and draw a circle in the carpet with my finger. This circle completely encompassed me. It was just me in the circle--nothing else. It was during this time I would poor out my heart to my Heavenly Father. It was just me and Him. I found myself doing the same thing this morning. I knelt down, moved my fingers in the carpet until they created a circle around me, and I prayed. I sobbed to my Father in Heaven. Openly admitting that I didn't know what to say. I eventually decided to ask for the faith and strength to not only accept His will, but to be able to grow and become better through this experience. I got up from my fetal position, wiped my tears, and went to play mom to my little child though I feel like a child--an infant rather--myself.

The doctor called my parents this morning with the results of the CT scan. I knew it was bad, but I wasn't expecting this. The cancer has spread to his liver, bladder, and one lung. I was on a conference call with my sister, parents and grandma. My dad's voice cracked a little when delivering the news, but that was all. He was purely logical from that moment on. Listening to my mom, however, was heartbreaking. Never in my life have I heard her so vulnerable. She wept. My sister wept. My grandma wept. I wept. For one moment I felt like we were all together, but alas, I opened my eyes are we were all still separated by thousands of miles.

Later, the vacuum was on. Maddux is afraid of the vacuum. He was crying and crawling away from it. I picked him up, held him and took him over to it. We knelt down together and touched it. He was shaking a little, but he wasn't crying. He was afraid, but he knew I was holding him, and I wouldn't doing anything to hurt him. I was teaching him that though this vacuum might be scary, it serves a purpose. I know through this situation the Lord is holding me. He is kneeling with me, and holding me right next to my personal vacuum. He is teaching me to not be frightened...for this vacuum, this frightening, heart wrenching thing, serves a purpose.

How do we glory in tribulation?

2010-04-05T22:11:00.000-07:00

Photo's courtesy of my sweet sister.

Last Thursday a soccer ball, metaphorically, came and punched me in the chest. It went right through my chest, grabbed ahold of my heart and held it in a tight vice. I couldn't breathe. My mind went blank. Tears wouldn't stop falling from my eyes. I had the phone to my ear. I could hear my dad's voice in the background, but I heard nothing after he said, "I have colon cancer." Even at this moment I sit here looking at the above pictures thinking, feeling, wishing I misheard. I did not.

Makay was at school when I was called. I hung up the phone, laid on the floor, and wept. Never in my life have I felt so much despair. Never before had I understood the phrase 'wracked my soul.' My poor Maddux didn't know what was going on. He would crawl over to me, touch my face, then go back to chewing on the TV stand. Sometimes he would smile, thinking I was playing some sort of game. If only that were it.

Though we don't know how advanced the cancer is yet, my mind got carried away. Horrible thoughts and scenarios continued to creep into my mind. Would my children know their Papa? Would my mom be a widow? Would my grandma lose another child? Who will give us financial guidance? Who will understand my sense of humor? Who will I go to when I need my dad? Who will wear socks and sandals? Who will explain the economy to us? Who will sing 'Let the Sun Shine'? Who, who, who, who, who???

Over the next few days I allowed myself to be in this deep misery. Never before have I experienced it, and never again do I want to.

Thank God for the gospel. Thank God. I thank Him for eternal families. I think Him for the constant companionship of the Comforter. I thank Him for an eternal perspective.

Through much prayer, talking to my husband, talking to my mom, and listening to General Conference, I have been given a great deal of peace. My understanding of the Atonement has greatly increased. I know with everything in me that God has a plan. I know His plan will bring me great happiness. I trust Him. Come what may. I will be steady and immovable--for I know the Lord is on my side, and if He's on my side, I can not lose. It might be difficult at times, and I might be back on the floor weeping, but I know I can get through this. I know my family can get through this.

"Be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you" [Doctrine and Covenants 68:6 ].

"In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world"[John 16:33 ].

These scriptures have become my lighthouse--something to reach for in the depths of darkness. The Lord is with me; He is standing by me.

Maddux | 10 months

2010-03-27T23:52:00.000-07:00

It's been an entire months since I last posted. That post was about Maddux. The post prior to that was about Maddux. Guess what this post is about... MADDUX! This month I am going to dig a little deeper and put some more energy into my posts. So keep reading, I promise, I will post about something other than my little guy [although, I must say, he is super adorable]

.....................................................................................................................................................................

This week was Makay's spring break. It was a much needed an much welcomed relief. I had a list of things to get accomplished and not one thing happened. I always think I'll have more time to do things when the husband's home; however, it's just the opposite. How is that? Routines are completely scrambled when someone else is thrown in the mix. Though we didn't cross anything off on my list, we did have some fun creating new memories.

We went to the zoo and in rained the entire time. We had a blast though. The lions were Maddux's favorite. Mine, too.

Maddux's 10 month list:

.crawl crawl crawl

.get into everything

.you love to turn on the DVD player

.you love when mama reads you books

.you get the biggest smiles on your face when dad gets home

.your favorite place to be is outside

....................................................................................................................................................................

makay & alli update:

.school maddux school maddux school maddux eachother school maddux school maddux

.makay is almost done with his first semester

.tuition is raised $800 per semester - we don't have the money. thank goodness for tithing. faith will prevail!

.I successfully ran 2 whole miles in 20 minutes without stopping [and without itchy legs - long story for another post] This is a big accomplishment for me! I am NOT a runner.

.finally my designs are selling. things are picking up [slowly but surely]

.trying to figure out how many different things I can make with rice

.laughed. a lot. it's been such a happy time for us.

....................................................................................................................................................................

9 months

2010-02-18T13:32:00.000-08:00

Yet another month has gone by and my little one is 9 months old. Was I really pregnant 9 months ago? Something I don't feel like that was even possible... until I get in the shower and see the stretch marks... yup, I was pregnant. Time plays dirty tricks. How come when I'm standing next to the microwave thirty seconds seem so long, but when I look at my little one with his two-teeth grin I wonder where the time went. I'm learning just how important it is to treasure the now and not to wish for the future. The future is coming now matter what, but the past will be gone forever. Enjoy every little moment. That's what I'm telling myself. Enjoy every moment.

I had the most traumatic motherhood experience a few days ago. Maddux was minutes from death and it was my fault. It all started with our power bill. To save money [and to extend our 63 dollar per month grocery budget] we decided to turn off the heat. It's not too cold so we thought this was not only do-able, but it was genius. We would just throw a few more blankets in Maddux's crib and call it good. Thursday night I put Maddux down for bed. I could hear muffled cries from his room [which is normal] so I just let him continue to cry. I kept getting the feeling that I should go in and check on him, but I didn't want him to see me and start the whole 'bed-time' process over. I continued to look over our finances and do the dishes, but the feeling continued to come. Finally, I decided to go in a check on him. Somehow Maddux had wrapped himself up [very tightly] in his blankets. They were covering his head [and these were heavy blankets mind you]. I had a hard time finding him in all the chaos. I finally got to him. His face was BRIGHT RED. His head was covered with sweat, and he was gasping for air. If I would have been minutes later he could have suffocated! I was a wreck for the rest of the night. I've never been so panicked in my entire existence. There must be legions of angels around babies at all times. How else would we all be alive. Thank goodness for a loving Father in Heaven who prompted me [several times] to and check on him. Next time I'll listen the first time...

...what Maddux can do now...

.you're a crawling machine.

.you're behind on eating solid food, you don't like to.

.you're still nursing.

.you pull yourself up on everything.

.you've had several scrapes and bruises lately.

.you're obsessed with turning on the DVD player.

.you're in the 40th percentile for weight [which was shocking, because you're huge], 25th for height, 7th for head circumference.

.you respond to your name.

.you clap when you're really happy or really mad.

.you love skyping uma and papa.

mama and daddy love you, baby!

pictures please!

2010-02-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

please.please.please

Do you have any professional pictures of your newborn that I can use for my birth announcements? [no scanned pictures, please] If yes, please email them to me at allisonoakey@gmail.com

2010-01-30T15:20:00.000-08:00

crawling.standing.teething

Yes, all three of these things happened within the last week. What a week! We've known he was going to start crawling here soon [see video below]. He continued to get up on his hands and knees and rock back and forth. Then, one day, BAM... he was off; He is always getting into cords: computer cords, tv cords, printer cords. What is it about cords?? Do they taste good?

[I got this jacket at the thrift store for 5 bucks!]

Later that week, I heard Maddux making noises in his room. Nap time was over [of course, right after I get my lunch ready...]. I went in to get him. For some reason I stuck my finger in his mouth and there they were... two bottom teeth had poked through! I was excited! I picked him up and started twirling him around. He didn't know what was going on, but he was happy!

[thank you plastic crib-rail protectors!]

Last night we put Maddux down to sleep at 8:30. He started crying around 9:30 [which was unusual]. I was just going to let him cry for a bit, but the decided to go in and give him his bink. I couldn't believe my eyes when I walked in! He pulled himself up in the crib all by himself! He's never done that before [or since]. He can't get himself down [unless he wants to head-plant in the side of the crib].

Here he goes!

I can't believe he's growing up so fast!

giveaway | help haiti

2010-01-28T17:42:00.000-08:00

It's the season of love; however, not all people are necessarily getting the love they deserve. I'm doing my second giveaway to help those in Haiti. The giveaway includes a template of one of the cards below. You will be able to print the design wherever you want! I will customize it just for you!

Rules: just leave a comment; however, I would appreciate it if before leaving a comment you would donate to one of the organizations below [or wherever you want] to help the people in Haiti. Small contributions by many people make all the differences. Please blog about my giveaway so we can do some good in this world!

Here are some suggestions. Just follow the links for donations to Haitian relief.

www.yele.org [Wyclef Jean's organization]

www.unicef.org [United Nations Children Fund]

www.icrc.org [Red Cross]

www.ldsphilanthropies.org/humanitarian-services [thanks, Caitlyn!]

repeat play

2010-01-26T10:35:00.000-08:00

The first time I put on Baby Einstein for Maddux I saw the 'Repeat Play' option. I thought to myself, "How pathetic. What mom is going to 'repeat play' this movie and let her child just sit in front of the television. I mean, come on people. How about we DO something with our children." Right?

Wrong. I found myself choosing that "repeat play" option yesterday. I had to paint the desk we got [which I'm painting orange! We got the desk for free on Craigslist. I'll post pictures later]. I was painting away and Maddux continued to cry or crawl into the kitchen. I just couldn't paint in these conditions! So, I did it. I pushed repeat.

Huh... repeat play. Thank you Baby Einstien, sorry baby.

[I am almost finished with the desk, though!]

2010-01-22T08:41:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how much the gospel anchors your life. This is something I thought I knew, but I'm realizing I had no idea. I'm sure I still have a lot of life to live to come to a complete understanding.

So here we are. Our little family living in Boise: Makay going to school full time; currently no income, though we are working our rear-ends off; most of our savings are spent from our waiting-for-dental-school fiasco; and we have baby. We've finally reached the 'newly-wed' stage. I knew it was coming, and I knew it was gong to be hard; I just didn't realize how great it was going to be. Theoretically speaking, this is supposed to be the toughest time we've gone through. Don't get me wrong, it is. It's difficult not seeing my husband all day; it's difficult having zero money; it's difficult being with the baby all day with no relief; it's difficult!

But, it's so great. Really, for the first time in our 3-year marriage we've had to completely rely on each other. We have absolutely no family, no money and no friends here. [Okay, so we've made some friends along the way, but I needed three 'no' statements for dramatic effect]. We've come to find that we have one more thing beyond each other - the gospel. If you look at the books, we should be squirming with fear right about now, but we've never felt so at peace. I've never been so sure in my life that this is where we're supposed to be at this moment in time. I know there will be some stretching pains we're going to have to go through [as a couple and as a family], but I look forward to life. Faith looks forward, and we can take it. Together, with the gospel, we can take whatever life has to throw at us because we will make it. I have no doubt. Heavenly Father is watching over us. We've already decided where we stand as a family and with that decision comes victory. We will make it! So bring it on life! There's no stopping me. I know where I am. I know who I am, and I'm standing.

bring.it.on

____________________________________________________________

After 13 minutes of screaming, he finally realized he was tired. Thank goodness. The combination of Christmas vacation and moving has not done good things for his schedule. Thankfully, he's starting to fall back into one.

Our little guy is starting to crawl.

His favorite toys = any sort of container.

His legs just keep getting chunkier and chunkier.

Maddux @ 7 and 8 months

2010-01-13T11:34:00.000-08:00

It's been far too long since my last post. I don't keep a journal so I always thought I would treat my blog like my journal. I look back and it's been 2 months since my last post! 2 months! 2 months in baby world goes by way to fast. I apologize to my future children who eventually read this. I do have a life [though some disagree :)].

_________________________________________________

Maddux @ 7 and 8 months:

[What I want to remember]

you love to watch the vacuum.
you can get up on your hands and knees, but then freak out because you don't know what to do.
you pull yourself up in your crib and stand on your mattress
you love to be held, but you don't like to cuddle
we've given you 5 haircuts
you love sweet potatoes and turkey
you don't know what to do with your sippy cup
you're still nursing like a champ
you like to pull your feet up and suck on your toes
you still hate being on your tummy
you're a semi-fan of baby einstein [you'll watch half of one video]
you always laugh for dad
you're a big hit at church [you have many girlfriends in young womens]
your favorite toy = your little saw
you like to say 'dadadadadada' over and over and over...
you like to say 'mamamamam' over and over and over...
you clap all the time. you still don't know when to though. sometimes you clap when your crying...

Mama and daddy love you, baby

__________________________________________________________

[family update]

we finally made it to Boise. We like it so far [especially the weather. Way better than Rexburg. It hasn't snowed once since we've been here!] Our ward is really welcoming, and our neighbors seem nice. We're living in a basement apartment which we were really blessed with. We came up to Boise to look for apartments and weren't finding anything in our price range that was even semi-decent. We found this one on Craigslist and committed without even looking at [risky, but we felt good about it]. It's even better than we thought. We feel blessed to be here.

Makay started school on Monday, and he has a full schedule. This is the first time I've been home with the baby all day by myself. Who knew it was so tiring [I realize that mom's reading this are probably laughing at me right now]. So what do I do? I mean, I'm busy with the baby, but what do I do to create a life of my own now? Does that make sense?

I'm hoping I won't have to work, but it's looking inevitable. My card business isn't doing as well as I'd hoped. I'm looking for any night positions right now--even if it means stocking shelves. I figure I'll probably get benefits if I can work full-time [maybe part-time?] at night. Makay gets home around 6 or 7 so I would be able to leave around 9 or 10, after Maddux's last feeding. I'm also thinking about applying here, though I think I'm under qualified. Wish me luck...

2009-12-03T18:45:00.001-08:00

push-ups and laughing

Maddux has started to push himself up on his knees! It is so fun to watch him. He still hasn't rolled from tummy to back; however, he's rolling from his back to his tummy like a champ! Sometimes he'll rollover in the middle of the night and get stuck like that.

He's obviously not happy here. He hates being on his tummy.

Does it take everyone else like 45 minutes to upload a video on blogger?? Why does it take so long?

2009-11-18T12:47:00.000-08:00

[6 months]

.you weigh 18 pounds [65th percentile]
.you're 26 inches long [54th percentile]
.you're in the 11th percentile for head circumference
.you always grab your feet
.you love paper
.you are always fake coughing [you'll mimic mom when she coughs]
.you can sit up all by yourself
.you have rolled over! [from back to tummy]
.the doctor said your teeth should be coming in any day [hallelujiah]
.your favorite toy is dad's cell phone
.you are always laughing [except when we skype uma and papa]
.you love to be held [you've been spoiled having mama and daddy home with you all day]

[mama and daddy love you, baby]!

__________________________________________________________________________________

[family update]

Makay has been accepted into the accelerated nursing program at ISU in Boise. We are beyond excited to finally be moving on with our lives. School starts in January so we'll be headed up either before or after Christmas. We're going to miss Rexburg [its definitely grown on me], but we're really ready to leave. I am almost finished designing a website for Ella Mae Designs. We're hoping things will take off a little faster once that's completed. Oh, and I bought my first turkey... at $0.38 a pound! I was pretty excited about that. Wish me luck; I've never cooked one before.

2009-11-13T11:14:00.000-08:00

random.org chose...

Daron and Jamee! Congratulations! Just email me [ellamedesigns@gmail.com] with the design of your choice from Ella Mae Designs!

For those of you who don't feel like winners, you're wrong! A special discount of 50 percent off the original price will be given to those who took the time to enter our giveaway! Yay!

My first gift of the season...

2009-10-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

Christmas is a time of sharing and serving others. So, in light of my excitement for Christmas, I have decided to do...

my very first giveaway: 25 custom Christmas Cards from ellamaedesigns! [a $50 value!]

Below are just some of our designs. There are many more to choose from on our website here.

Ok, here are the entry rules:
the winner is randomly chosen from number of comments.
so each comment is an entry.
(with a max of 4 entries per person)

{1st entry} leave a comment with an email address
{2nd entry} if you have a blog, post about our giveaway or do a link via facebook, then leave another comment.
{3rd entry} do an act of service and tell me about it in your 3rd comment!

{4th entry} put our button on your blog [see left sidebar] then leave another comment!

A winner will be picked on November 13th.

Good luck!

He's growing up too fast

2009-10-18T23:52:00.000-07:00

.the fifth month.
.you rub your eyes when you get tired [i LOVE when you do this]
.you started sticking your tongue out quite often [i HATE when you do this]
.you started eating rice cereal, and you love it
.you sleep from 10:30 to 8:00. eat. then sleep until 9:30
.you are always really good in the car. we've had to take some road trips, and you've been awesome!
.you've had three haircuts already
.your hair hasn't fallen out yet and i'm assuming it won't
.your fingernails grow too fast
.your chunky thighs are getting ticklish
.if i say, "i'm gunna tickle you!' when you're eating, you will always start smiling.
.you still haven't rolled over
.you love when dad throws you up in the air
...mama and daddy love you, baby...

These are for you, Mom...

2009-10-04T17:51:00.000-07:00

________
4.5 months

This is Maddux on his tummy. He absolutely hates being on his stomach. He hasn't rolled over yet, but we are still giving him his 'tummy time' as recommended by his pediatrician. His time will come...

He can sit up...for three seconds, give or take.

He is usually all smiles. His favorite time of day = the morning. He loves to wake up and see mom and dad. These are the smiles he gives us when we take him out of his crib in the morning.

"I like 'em big... I like 'em chunky... I like 'em round... I like 'em plumpy..."
[quote from Madagascar 2].
Chunk-a-Monk. We started him on rice cereal a few days ago, and he seems to like it.

We're not so sure why he was laughing so hard in this video, but it makes me smile every time I watch it...

Introducing...

2009-09-26T11:44:00.000-07:00

Ella Mae Designs! Finally, we have the ball rolling. I'm in the middle of designing a website for her, but until then, enjoy Ella Mae Designs: the blog.

There is also a link available on the left sidebar at the top under [my designs].

4 months | Mesa Falls | TV Stand

2009-09-22T10:44:00.000-07:00

[Off topic question: how do I post videos now? I can't find the video icon???]

_____________________________________________

Maddux | 4 months

[Measurements: 16 lbs [70th percentile], 25 inches [56th percentile] 15.5 head circumference [7th percentile]]

[You still haven't rolled over, but you will roll on your side]

[You are always blowing bubbles]

[You started stop nursing in the middle of your feedings so you can look up at smile at me]

[You are sleeping from 10:30 to 6:00. You'll eat and then sleep until 8:30]

[You are finally taking your binky]

[You are still easy going]

[You have graduated to your crib from your moses basket]

[You LOVE 'standing']

[Every morning when I do your hair I can always get you to smile if I say, "Oh, Maddux, you are so handsome..."]

_________________________________________________________________________________

We finally took a trip up to Mesa Falls. It was b.e.a.u.t.i.f.u.l!

________________________________________________________________________________

Makay has been wanting to build us a TV stand for awhile, and he finally did it! I absolutely adore it! It's so professional!

Wrinkly laundry and tears

2009-09-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

This is an old picture, but it most accurately portrays the moment that just happened.

There I was fully clothed in my 'mommy atire': an XXL pair of ugly greenish scrubs, a gray sweater, no make-up, and a fabulous up-do. I was finally folding the very unfortunate, very wrinkly laundry that had been in their clean bins for several days. It was nap time for Maddux so he was in his 'magic swing' [deemed such because of its ability to always put the baby to sleep]. Enya was playing in the background to help sleep come on faster. However, the magic seemd to be temporarily unavailable because Maddux was still crying due to his sleep not coming when he and mommy wanted it to. I continued to shove his binky in his mouth. He would suck on it for a few minutes and then spit it out. I would shove it back in and the pattern continued. I continued to tell him if he would just keep his binky in he would fall asleep. So I sat there looking at him making a mental note of all the things I had to do when he fell asleep with showering be at the top of the list.

I continued to stare at him until the thought came that he will be four months old tomorrow. Four months. I couldn't believe how fast the time had gone, and yet it seems so much longer. I still don't know how the feeling is possible, but it is. Finally I picked him up. I turned off the light and started walking back and forth with my little one. The room was illumintated only by the light from the bathroom. Enya contined to play. The noise from the swing set the ryhthimic pace at which we walked. Wrinkly laundry was still sprawled on the floor. Maddux had his cheek on my shoulder, but his eyes were wide open. His desire to explore always conquers his ability to sleep when I am holding him. His little bum was supported by my left arm and my right hand played with his toes. He had his left hand up on my neck. I kept kissing his head and smelling his hair, praying I would never forget this moment, but knowing I would.

Then I realized this is what life is all about. It's not about folding the laundry, planning a perfect lesson, or trying to look perfect. It's not about doing the dishes, making dinners, or feeling like you have to volunteer for everything. It's about taking the time to play with those little toes that curl around your finger.

Maddux is now in his magic swing. Enya is still playing, and I have tears on my face. I sit with laundry on all sides of me, but now I have moment that will be with me forever.

Soak in the moment...

Laughing and Haircuts

2009-09-04T07:46:00.000-07:00

Well, I gave Maddux his 2nd haircut yesterday. I think he's so cute! He looks like a grown-up little boy [oxy-moron?].

He always holds his hands and feet together like this. I love it...

This is a video of Maddux laughing. This is going to be the music in my heaven.

Maddux is

2009-08-26T21:49:00.000-07:00

[3 months]

_________________________________________________________________

Well it's time for Maddux's 3 month update. I can't believe he is 3 months old already. People said the time would move too quickly, but I didn't realize just how quickly it would move. At this exact moment I am looking at my little boy sleep. I can hear his cute little whistle coming from his nose as he breathes. I continue to tell myself I will remember these little things that make me so happy; however, my memories are already starting to fade.

I didn't realize motherhood would be so difficult. I knew the late night feedings and the constant holding would be draining at times; however, I didn't realize these things wouldn't be the difficult portion of motherhood. What makes being a mom so difficult is the same thing that makes it so wonderful: love. It is so hard to hear your baby cry [not just any cry, that 'I'm hurting mom' cry] and not be able to calm him; it's hard to worry all of the time about whether or not he is receiving the love and emotional care he needs; it's hard to see the moments pass so quickly I don't have time to enjoy them. This whole 'mother thing' has given me a greater perspective into my Father in Heaven's world.

Who knew it would be so difficult... and for reasons I wasn't even expecting.

__________________________________________________________________

[ click images to enlarge ]

__________________________________________________________________

[Things I don't want to forget about my little one]

You love looking at yourself in the mirror when I do you hair. It's like you're making sure I'm doing it right.
You will always smile at your reflection. We call your reflection your 'friendy.' He's always aloud to come over and play.
We've already cut your hair once, and we plan on cutting it again tomorrow.
We've started putting you in your jumper. You're still trying to figure it out.
You've giggled a few times, and it's the most beautiful sound I've ever heard.
You no longer like being on your tummy.
According to our scale, you weigh 16 pounds already. You're a little chunk.
You won't smile for the camera very often.
You've started sleeping for eight hours at night. Yay!
We've experience a very bad sacrament meeting with you. I'm pretty sure everyone was staring at me.
You're extremely happy in the morning.
You're really relaxed and content... just like your daddy.

Mama and daddy love you, baby...

Apologies for the messy bedroom in the video...

Pictures please!

2009-08-07T20:55:00.000-07:00

Dearest blogger friends ... here are a few samples of my wedding announcements! I am hoping to open an etsy shop [or something of the like] as well as create a new blog in a few days to sell my designs; however, I need some more engagement pictures for my announcements. So, I am asking all readers of this blog a big favor: will you send me your engagement pictures?! Pretty, please! If willing, please send them to allisonoakey@gmail.com

[click all images to enlarge]
_________________________

This is my Vanessa design: 5x5 folded announcement

____________________________

This is my Ashlyn design: 5x7 folded announcement

__________________________________

This is my Serena design: 5x5 flat card

________________________________________

This is my Lily design: 5x7 flat card

2009-08-04T15:05:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Maddux experienced his first vacation at the family cabin in Alpine, Wyoming. Alpine is only a little over an hour from Rexburg so Makay and I decided to pack up our things and take a mini-vacation. I forgot how much I love it up there. I have so many memories at this special place. It such a nice get-a-way... and it's close, too! [and free, which makes everything better... obviously].

Mom [without make-up, apologies] and baby relaxing while dad mows the lawn.

Our sweet Maddux hanging out on the couch.

Maddux and dad

One of the greatest things to do at the cabin is take the motorcycles out. We had to take turns [I guess someone had to watch the babe].

Makay and I spent our honeymoon at the cabin. We took the motorcycles out then as well; however, it was a little more of an 'experience' then. We got both of them stuck in the mud. Poor Makay had to push his all the way back home. Luckily we were newly weds so we laughed the whole way home instead of complained. Honeymoon = bliss no matter what happens.

This is the view from the front porch
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Yesterday, we went to the Rexburg International Dance Festival. Ya know, I am really going to miss this place when we leave. Rexburg has some pretty cool things here [especially since it's so small!]. The festival had dancers from all over the world: Japan, China, Korean, Lethawania, Russia, Mexico, etc. They blocked off Main Street for the parade. We had a great time.

Maddux was a champ. He was just fine hanging out in the stroller. [Sidenote, I love this picture of him. I can't believe how big his is getting. He has already moved up a size in clothes. It's so sad. Makay was reading about child development, and infants are supposed to double their birth weight by the fourth month. Well this little tyke has already doubled his birth weight by 2 1/2 months. Yeah. He's 14 pounds already!]

The happy family!

I ran into one of my best friends from High School there. Ashlyn Rockower, now Ashlyn Oba. It was great seeing you, Ash!

___________________________________

Maddux update: Maddux has now found his hands, and he thinks they're the greatest. He loves to chew on them. I always try to pull them out of his mouth, but I can only do it so many times. We're pretty sure he is already teething. [Unfortunate, I know]. He chewing on everything; he is definitely not lacking in the drool area; he calms down when we give him teething tablets. Huh. I didn't know it was possible to teeth this early, but alas, it is.

Family update: We have decided to go the nurse anethisist route. In order for this to happen, the following must take place: Makay needs three more classes [two of which will be completed in September, and the last will be completed in December]; Makay will take the TEAS test [the nursing entrance exam] on August 15th; We must apply to the accelerated nursing program in Boise by September; we'll hopefully be headed to an interview in October; If accepted, the program will begin in January 2010 and go through April 2011; Makay will work as an RN for one year and then apply to a CRNA program [which is 27 months]; When that is competed, we'll be making good money... hopefully! Whew... we feel really good about this new path. Makay is really excited. So, we'll see what happens!

I've been designing birth announcements and wedding announcements. I hope to be opening an etsy shop in a few weeks [hopefully to be followed by a website]. Wish me luck! I'll post more about this endeavor later.

Two months

2009-07-17T07:37:00.000-07:00

Two months have already past, and I don't know where the time has gone. My little one is growing so fast, and I am enjoying every minute of it. Maddux is such a happy baby, and he brings so much joy into our lives and home. Motherhood has bestowed such a fullness to my life. I have learned so many things in these few short months. Some are as follows:

You simply can not change every time your child spits up on you.
Pushing a shopping cart with a car seat attached is an art. One must watch out for small children and low bins.
Your own child's spit up, drool, and throw up really isn't that gross.
Sleep is a luxury.
Nursing gets much easier after the first three weeks.
Nothing makes me happier than seeing my child happy.
You go through onesies like hotcakes.

One month with jaundice

One month with dad

two months with mom

two months with chubby cheeks

Makay's trick to keep Maddux from crying when he's hungry

_________________________________

The Two Month List

Measurements: 11.7 lbs [52nd percentile], 21.5 inches long [7th percentile],14.8 inches head circumference [7th percentile].
You smile like crazy. It makes mom melt every single time. Even when you're crying you will throw in a smile or two if mom is cooing at you.
You are cooing a lot, and we think your laugh is soon to follow.
When you are really happy your bottom lip quivers.
You are sleeping from 10:00pm to 4:30 then 4:45 to 7:30.
Mom loves getting up to feed you. She looks forward to you sleeping through the night, but she loves rocking you. Just you and her.
Your hair is getting thicker and longer. I've already had to cut your hair around your ears.
Your eyes are continuing to change colors.
You love your dad. You always smile when you hear his voice.
Your always happy, but you're the happiest in the morning after you wake up.
You can hold your head up with no trouble at all.
You love laying on your tummy and side; however, mom will never let you sleep the way [at night].
Mama's favorite thing to do is hold you after your tubby when you're all wrapped up in our towel.
You love to sleep with your hands up by your head.
You don't like mom to eat spicy food. It hurts your tummy way to much.
Not only do you focus in on the swing's fish mobile, but you smile at your fish. Dad calls them your fish friends.
Your bink is a hit and miss: sometimes you like it, sometimes you don't.
You love when mom and dad take you running in the stroller.

Mama and daddy love you, baby...

First month

2009-06-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

I took Maddux on a walk yesterday through the Nature Park here in Rexburg. The sun finally broke through the rainy clouds [who have been unwelcome visitors for the past two weeks]. As I was walking past the ponds I came to the old, dilapidated bridge that found its way into my heart over 3 1/2 years ago. This bridge was where Makay and I stood on our second date. I can still see us leaning againts the wood railing completely enthralled in conversation. I remember the butterflies that swarmed my stomach each time he looked at me with those blue eyes. I remember thinking I couldn't be any happier than I was at that moment.

Now I stood in the same spot with our son. I tried to remember back to the time when our little Maddux wasn't with us. It's hard for me to even conceive the thought that he hasn't been with me forever. There was a time when I thought I knew what happiness was, but I was wrong. I've never before experienced the joy that has been accompanied with my little baby.

___________________________

My sister flew in from Vegas to take some pictures of my little one. Here they are! I am in love with ALL of the photographs. Lace, you're an amazing photographer. Thanks for everything.

Click here to see more of her work...

___________________________

Things to remember about Maddux's first month:

You had Jaundice for about 2 1/2 weeks. Your poor feet were pricked 6 times for blood tests. Mom stood outside the door and cried her eyes out when they drew blood for your PKU test.
You smile unconsciously when you're sleeping. It is the cutest thing.
Dad tried to pull your onesie off without unbuttoning it. Your poor little head was 'delivered' again. Your hair was a sight to be seen.
Your hair has gone from jet black to brown.
You love when mom takes you on walks in your stroller.
You love to sleep on mom and dad's chest.
You always pee on mom when she changes you; however, you never pee on dad.
You're starting to sleep for 6 hours at night.
You weighed 8 pounds at your two week appointment.
Your hands and feet are huge.
You always put your hand straight up in the air with your fist clenched. Dad thinks you're trying to say, "Power to the people!"
You're a pretty mellow baby. You usually only cry when you're hungry.
You're starting to focus on things around you. You will look at the circling fish mobile on top of your swing.
Your eyes have gone from charcoal to dark blue.
Everyone always comments on your hair.
You are the most beautiful baby I have every seen...

Mama and Daddy love you, baby...

Happy Birthday

2009-05-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

Well, our little baby boy was born on May 16 at 12:25 in the afternoon. 7 lbs 4 oz | 19 inches long.
It all started the night before, around 8pm, when I started timing my contractions. They started out very sparatic [in time and intensity]. Around 11pm they started coming 8ish minutes apart. We headed for the hospital at 1:30am when they were 5 minutes apart.

We entered to emergency room to find no one at the desk. We had to ring the bell 3 times for someone to arrive. When I finally go to the room they said I was dilated to a 2... that was it. They said to walk for two hours. However, 30 minutes later contractions were coming every 3 minutes and I had dilated to a 5. They gave me my saving grace [the epidural] shortly after that.

I eventually dilated to a 10 and they had me wait for an hour to push so the contractions could get the baby as far down as possible. I started pushing when they asked and it was the most amazing experience of my life. My epidural was light, so I could still move my toes, feel pressure on my legs, and feel contractions coming on [minus the pain]. I asked them if they could bring in a mirror so I could see my progress [something suggested in a book I read]. I am SO glad I asked for the mirror. It was so amazing to see the miracle that took place before me. Makay was so amazing. He helped the nurse hold my legs and counted to keep me focused on my pushes. He was so supportive every step of the way. I couldn't have done it without him.

Our little Maddux Makay was born an hour later. They put him on my belly as soon as he came out and I the tears wouldn't stop coming. I can not explain the experience well enough to portray my feelings. It was the most amazing, spiritual, loving experience of my life. Then to look up at my sweet husband with tears on his face as I held our first child will forever be a moment written on my heart. I will never forget the feelings that came over me.

9 days to go...

2009-05-08T16:17:00.000-07:00

Only 9 more days until my due date. To be honest, I thought this baby of mine would have come by now, but he's just content to stay in his mama for a little while longer.

I had a doctor's appointment today. He said I was not dilated yet. I have been feeling great. I haven't had any pregnancy symptoms my entire pregnancy. These last few weeks haven't even been too bad. I'm just hoping that doesn't mean I will have a hard labor. Can I have cake and eat it, too? I guess we'll see...

These have been my staple pregnancy sweat pants. They are so comfortable!

________________________________________________

This is the baby section of our bedroom. If it looks like it is partially in the bathroom it's because it is. This is the changing table Makay built for me. I LOVE it. He still has to put doors on it. He has done a really great job so far. I love the beadboard on the sides.

I have everything ready to go. All of the baby clothes are washed and put away. My hospital bag [the black bag in the photo] is packed and ready. The diaper bag [the orange bag on the changing table] is fully stocked with diapers, wipes, blankets, diaper rash cream, burp clothes, etc. We don't have crib bedding yet; however, the baby will be sleeping in a Moses basket for the first little while so we're alright as far as that goes.

The Man's Corner (Makay's Post)

2009-04-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

Because this dealt with tools instead of the baby, I wasn't able to get Alli to post these pictures for me. These are pictures of the vanity that I built in my cabinetmaking class last semester. The vanity is built of alder and has a coat of dark walnut stain, ebony gloss, and tinted ebony lacquer. We also had the opportunity to build the counter top and to put the laminate on ourselves. It was fun to learn how to build this and other things until I realized that I need about 50,000 dollars in tools to make anything look professional. I am still trying to convince Alli that the tools are a necessity and not a want.

Graduation

2009-04-26T21:08:00.000-07:00

We're college graduates!

I can't believe we are actually college graduates. Let me tell you, this age is definitely a lot younger than I thought it was four years ago. The time went by so quickly.

I have been so grateful for my time at BYU-Idaho. I have come to love this university. I feel I have grown academically, emotionally and spiritually. One of the greatest things I have been taught is how to learn.

BYU-Idaho has implemented a great thing: The Learning Model. In essence it entails a three-step process: preparation, teaching, and pondering. When the instructor comes to class with a lesson that has been prepared with the spirit [which does not mean the lesson is 'gospel saturated'], and the students come prepared with the material while seeking guidance and understand from the spirit, a higher-level of learning takes place. Teacher-to-student learning has been abandoned and spirit-to-spirit learning has taken place. Through practicing this model of learning, I have been taught that "by the power of the Holy Ghost [I] may know the truth of all things" [Moroni 10:5].

Another crucial step in this learning process is teaching one another. The Learning Model says students will 'teach to learn and learn to teach. When students teach diligently, they receive deeper insight and are instructed more perfectly (see D&C 88:78).'

I have seen this process implemented in many areas of my life. I find greater satisfaction in my gospel study and family living as I follow this principle of spirit-to-spirit learning and teaching.

I didn't mean to go on for so long about the learning model. However, it has altered my learning style and has in-turn altered the quality of my life. I feel I wouldn't be 'doing my duty' as a BYU-Idaho Alumnus if I didn't pass along the quality of learning that takes place at this fine university. If you want to learn more about the learning model, click here.

As far as our future goes, we're still waiting to hear back from two dental schools: UNLV [in Vegas] and Midwestern University [in Arizona]. Makay has had interviews with both schools. We should know where we're going before the end of the month...hopefully.

The pregnancy is going well, and I'll post some pictures of the belly in a little while. I only have three weeks left! Yay, I can't wait to see my little one...

My eportfolio

2009-04-07T21:44:00.000-07:00

[ www.cardsbyalli.com ]

For my advanced visual media class we had to make a website|eportfolio for our final. Please take a look and let me know what you think before my final! I would love to hear everyone's critiques before I present it. I will be changing the domain name, but for now it is: [www.cardsbyalli.com ]

It was so much fun to design, and I look forward to adding on to it...

9 days until I am a college graduate...

2009-03-31T20:24:00.000-07:00

[weird] [weird] [weird!]

Do you ever stand where you are, look back and say, "How in the world did I get here?" This is how I feel right now. Only 9 more days until I'm a college graduate. A COLLEGE GRADUATE. Am I that old already? This age is definitely not as old as I once thought it was.

I am really excited to graduate, but I just can't come to terms with the fact that it's over. Seriously, where was I when the time past?

Podcast

2009-03-17T21:26:00.000-07:00

For my advanced visual media class {probably my favorite class of all time} we had to make a video podcast for our websites. Here it is! It took a lot of time, but I am so glad I had the opportunity to learn how to put one together.

I entered the world of design pretty late in my college career. I wish I would have stumbled upon it earlier. I took this class to soak in as much information as I could before I graduated. Due to my 20 credit schedule, I realized I wouldn't have the time needed to dedicate to the class, but I was in it for the information--not necessarily the grade. Taking this class has not only taught me so much about design, but it has also taught me how powerful a teacher's influence can be. I took my first visual media class from Caryn Esplin, and she made me fall in love with design. I loved her outlook on life and the gospel. She truly inspired me {I know, very cheesy}. I am taking my current class from her as well. As much as I am looking forward to graduation, there are so many more classes I wish I could have taken. How come hindsight can never be foresight, eh?

31 Weeks and Fearing...

2009-03-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

31 Weeks Pregnant...
8 weeks to go...
{ wow }

This is me trying to kiss the baby...

Well, my posts have been few and far between this semester, and I am really regretting it. I know I will want to look back and remember these moments. I need to be more dedicated.

My pregnancy has flown by {too fast, I might add}. I'm not sure I'm ready to have this baby yet. I guess it's good I have 8 more weeks. The reality and nerves have finally hit me.
I'm having a baby. Surprise!

I have been pondering on what it means to be a mother and the responsibilities that accompany that great role. I have to admit, these pondering have often led to an increased heart rate, sweaty hands, and feelings of doubt.

I told my religion teacher that I was having a boy, and he happily proclaimed with his arms thrown in the air, "Ah! You're raising the Priesthood!" This comment was where the deep contemplations of mine began. Later that week, I was attending gospel doctrine. We had a wonderful lesson on the Priesthood and its accompanying blessings and responsibilities. I began to think about this sweet baby of mine. How am I to teach him the importance of the Priesthood and the great work that lies ahead of him as a righteous priesthood holder? How do I teach him that this responsibility goes beyond passing the sacrament? How do I teach him to trust in the Lord? How do I teach him to walk in truth? How do I teach him to love and serve those around him? How do I teach him to have clean hands and a pure heart?

I came across a scripture in Helaman 3:21. Mormon tells us that Helaman had two sons: Nephi and Lehi. He says, "And they began to grow up unto the Lord." This verse really struck me. How, as a parent, do you 'grow' your children up unto the Lord?

All of these questions have been swarming in my head searching for the needed answers. But, alas, they have not come. However, I have come to learn something very valuable. As a mother, I won't know all of the answers {despite the fact that I thought my parents knew everything}. All I need to know is this: the Lord loves my baby as much and more than I do. As I place my trust in Him, He will guide my thoughts and actions in a way that will best teach my precious little one. I know that being a wife and a mother are two of the great responsibilities I can have in this life; I know that the Lord knows this as well. He will guide me because I will be righteously seeking to do His work. I know there will be times of difficulty, but I know the Lord will be watching, guiding, and helping every step of the way;

{ As long as I am seeking, he will be leading }

There is so much I have learn on this journey... but bring it on. I know that with the Lord, Makay and I can do anything.

I'll want to remember these...

2009-02-05T17:19:00.000-08:00

Things I'll want to remember about my pregnancy:

We were in our room when I told Makay I was pregnant. I started crying because I was so happy. He held me with a big smile on his face.
I immediately started reading What to Expect When You're Expecting. I tried not to read ahead, but I failed at that every week.
Dawson and McKinley were the first people we let the news slip to. Dawson jumped up and down, slapped his hands together, and squealed. Kinley continued to say, "Are you serious!?"
I first felt the baby move at 16 weeks. I was sitting in the front room reading when I felt that little flutter once, twice, then three times. I couldn't stop smiling.
In the beginning of my pregnancy I loved to eat buttered toast. I had in every morning for breakfast and thought I was in heaven.
In the middle of my pregnancy (now) I ate at least one orange a day and had to have something with peanut butter on it.
No food or smell actually made me throw up, but I can't stand to look at any pictures of McDonald's McRib. It disgusts me.
I haven't been sick or tired at all. I've really had a wonderful pregnancy so far--knock on wood.
The baby will always move whenever Makay puts his hand on my belly. I'm pretty sure he's going to be a daddy's boy.

We're having...

2009-01-30T20:01:00.000-08:00

I'm 24 weeks and it is finally time to announce...

We're having...

23 Weeks

...a bouncing baby boy!

We couldn't be more thrilled!

Baby Shower

2009-01-29T11:04:00.000-08:00

Last weekend my mom, grandma, and sister threw me a family baby shower. It was absolutely a.m.a.z.i.n.g. It was beautiful! My sister made the cutest diaper cake (picture below). I didn't know diapers could look so appealing! The food was to die for. They made the best chicken salad croissants. There was amazing fruit, vegetables, salad, candy, and truffles. I have never been to such a high-class baby shower, haha... and it was for me! It was so great. I LOVED IT! The company was outstanding as well. It was so nice to be with family that I haven't seen in such a long time.

Thanks to the amazing women in my life. You are my best friends. I appreciate all you do!

The amazing diaper cake!

My amazing sister placing fresh flowers on the cake! Yeah... fresh flowers!

My cute mom! {Clearly with Diet Coke within reach}

The food was delicious. The table setting was amazing. Doesn't it look great!

Thanks Mom, Grandma, and Lace!

I love you!

Marriage

2009-01-20T19:18:00.000-08:00

This semester I am in a Marriage class for my cluster in Home and Family Science. Though it is 3 hours long, I am thoroughly enjoying the content of the class. One book we are reading is called, Living a Covenant Marriage. I have learned so much!

One chapter in particular is called, "Jesus Christ, the Sure Foundation." One particular passage struck me:

"Whatever Jesus lays His hands upon lives. If Jesus lays His hands upon a marriage, it lives. If He is allowed to lay His hands upon a family, it lives."

This is so true. Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. It is only through Him that our marriages and our families can succeed. I know it sounds simple, and maybe I'm catching on a little late, but the spirit really bore witness to me of this. As long has Makay and I are allowing the Lord into our marriage, it will live.

Anyhow, that's my insight for the day! I hope you enjoy!

Baby Showers and Brothers

2009-01-18T21:12:00.000-08:00

I've had a lot of people ask me if we've found out the sex of the baby... and the answer is yes! However, you're going to have to wait until Monday to find out! My family is flying into Salt Lake to drop my brother off at the MTC this weekend! While they are in Salt Lake, my mom, sister and grandma will be throwing me a Family Baby Shower (emphasis on family so don't feel bad that you weren't invited! Friend baby shower is definitley coming... don't your worry!). They are calling the shower "The Big Reveal!" This is the event where, as you can guess, I reveal the sex of the baby! How exciting! I want everyone to know that we couldn't be more thrilled though! We are SO SO excited!

The baby is moving a lot these days. He/she is always kicking me in the bladder which definitely makes for uncomfortable 3 hours classes! Though uncomfortable at times, I enjoy every kick, move and flutter. I always stop what I am doing and place my hand over the movement. It has been such an amazing experience being pregnant. I have really enjoyed every single moment. I am starting to feel apprehensive about being a mother. Am I ready? I am so content with taking care of the baby while it is inside me, but am I capable of being a good mother once he/she enters the world?

I am sure my child will raise me as much as I raise him... or her.

____________________________________

This is Ryan and my niece Kylie during the October General Conference. Kylie LOVED Ryan and just couldn't get enough of him.

On a different note, my brother is headed into the mission field! He received his endowments this Friday (January 16th for journal sake). He gave his farewell talk in church today. He spoke for a full 13 minutes! I was so proud! I wish I could have been there. Ryan and I have been close our entire lives. We played together when we were little, I taught him how to speak, I buttered his rolls, I pretended to be a 'hair person' and would put almost an entire bottle of gel in his hair, and the list goes on. He was up in Rexburg last semester, and I had a blast with him here. It was so fun to have our lives overlap for that time. I am so proud of him and the choices he is making. He will be serving in Santa Rosa, California, and I couldn't be happier for him. I love you, Ry!

These pictures were taken at the end of Fall 2008 semester. He was leaving BYU-Idaho for home. I was more emotional than the pictures show and he... well, he wasn't as emotional as the pictures show... haha...

Flowers

2009-01-17T23:10:00.000-08:00

Today, in this Rexburg winter, I am grateful for beautiful flowers! This is a picture of some flowers I took in the fall... proof that more than snow exists in this little city....

Thankful for the Temple

2009-01-14T21:56:00.000-08:00

Today, I am grateful for the Temple.

This picture was taken on August 23, 2006--the day I received my endowments. I am so grateful for the temple and can testify of the blessings that come into my life and the life of my little family because of it.

Every time I attend the temple I can feel a greater sense of love from my Father in Heaven. It's such reality check for me. It's so nice to take a step away from the world and regain that eternal perspective that is so easily lost during day-to-day life.

I love the temple!

Journal?

2009-01-13T18:36:00.000-08:00

22 Weeks

First, I would like to thank all of you who participated in my fill-in-the-blank assignment. The assignment is now complete! I appreciate it.

In my religion class this semester I have committed to writing in a journal 4 days a week. Though I am not a devout blogger, I do blog more than I write in my journal. Pitiful, I know. So, my 'journaling' will be taken to the digital world for all to read! Welcome to my life.

For my first entry I would like to record how blessed I am. Not because I'm married to my best friend, not because I'm a mother-to-be, not because I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Later-day Saints, and not because this is my last semester of school. Today, I am extremely grateful that my Father in Heaven is aware of the little things in my life.

I have a self-portrait collage (see below) due in my Adv. Visual Media class on Thursday, and I have had no time to work on it. Basically, I had to take new pictures for this project and be creative. I was so stressed and I knew I couldn't finish it in time. However, the Lord helped me every step of the way. He helped me brainstorm...and quickly. I am so grateful that my Heavenly Father is aware of more than just my gospel pursuits (I know, I know... all things are spiritual... but still, you know what I mean). He is aware of the every day happenings in my life. Isn't that amazing? I feel so blessed to have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. I am so grateful for personal, everyday, revelation.

This design doesn't have a lot of creativity, but it's finished! There was A LOT of photo editing that went into the picture (crappy weather). Also, the text is filled with other pictures I took (basically different colors of wood). Then the flower to the right is just a photoshop brush. Whew... it doesn't look like it, but it took awhile!

Help!

2009-01-10T13:54:00.000-08:00

For one of my classes I need 20 people to participate in a little "fill in the blank" survey. Will you please! Even if I don't know you and you're just blog-stalking. All you have to do is fill in the blank:

Conflict is like ______________.

This is due on Monday so if you read this by Monday morning, please help me by leaving a comment with your fill-in-the-blank!

I promise to post something more interesting this weekend!

Thank you for participating!

Prepare to Be Amazed...

2008-12-11T07:48:00.000-08:00

Yeah... that's not a photograph...

For those of you who don't know, my sister-in-law, Lacie Oakey, is amazing! She is an extremely talented artist. She launched her first website a few months ago, and it is amazing.

You should take a look at her website by clicking here.

Click the above link and then go to 'Welcome to My Site.' After that you will see a small icon on the bottom left of each page that says 'Gallery.' Click on that! You will be amazed... I promise...

Building Our Bed!

2008-12-08T13:19:00.000-08:00

We built a bed! Yeah....

Well, Makay built it and I helped a little! It was such a fun thing to do together. We were trying to find something that we could do to spend time with each other other than watch movies and eat dinner. Makay thought about building a bed all summer long. So we thought we would do it together. I married such a handy man! I love it!

I should have taken more pictures of the process, but I didn't... sorry!

At 16 Weeks...

2008-12-08T13:03:00.001-08:00

16 Weeks

This picture was taken at 16 weeks. I need to do better at taking pictures! I am 17 weeks now! The baby is the size of my palm... aw, how cute.

As you can see I am showing a little bit, but if you didn't know I was pregnant you would just think I was gaining weight. But I don't care! I am so happy to be pregnant! I look at my belly every morning in the mirror and stand amazed at the changes that are taking place. What a miracle.

I have loved every minute of being pregnant. It really has been amazing. I am so grateful that I am so naive to the difficulties that lie ahead. I know that rainbows and butterflies won't consume my future; however, I am grateful that I don't realize just how difficult it will be. I am so enjoying this time I have to experience ignorant bliss. I love the moments I have to ponder on the joys that motherhood will bring. I am just so excited!

My Babies

2008-11-13T09:14:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been so blessed to have such a wonderful pregnancy. I haven't been sick at all. The only sign that there is something in my tummy (other than the cute little ultra-sound which I still need to post) are the constant rushes to the bathroom at the most inconvenient times. I am 13 weeks along and my baby is the size of a fresh peach! My pants are definitely feeling tighter, and you can see a little, tiny poke if you're looking at my actual tummy, but you wouldn't be able to tell while clothed.

It's still such a surreal thing. I mean, is that baby really in me? When I received my ultrasound I was taken back at what miracles were taking place in that very moment. It was such a conformation of the existence of a loving Heavenly Father and his knowledge of each and every one of us. What a blessing it is to be able to carry one of His children. I think about the world that my babies will be born into, and I am struck with aw at what strong spirits they must be. I just pray I will be able teach them as much as I know they will teach me.

I am so excited to be a mom!

_____________________________________________________

The following pictures are from www.makemebabies.com. I saw these on Carly's blog and had to give it a try...

Ella Victoria

Madelyn Grace

Dylan Tyler

Bridal Shower Invitation

2008-10-27T21:09:00.001-07:00

Well, as much as I love you all, this invitation is not for you. I am throwing a bridal shower for my best friend from high school--Kristin McFarland--and this is the announcement I designed. We were having some emailing issues so I decided to post it on the blog so she can see it...

Sorry! You'll be invited next time!

Good news...

2008-10-04T12:06:00.000-07:00

Well, that cat's out of the bag so I figured I should let the blog world in on the not-so-secret secret. Are you ready for this...

I'm Pregnant!

Yay! I am so excited! I'll be 8 weeks tomorrow. Luckily for me, I have only been sick once! The baby is due in May, and I graduate in April so the timing is pretty much perfect. I am so excited to be a mom.

I have been so blessed to be surrounded by such great moms. My mom, my sister, my grandmas, my mother-in-law, my sister-in-laws, and my aunts have all been outstanding examples of what motherhood is and should be. Now, I am not ignorant enough to believe that the road won't be rocky, but I now the blessings will greatly outweigh the hardships.

I know that being a wife and a mother are two of the greatest callings and responsibilities I can have in this life. I pray I can live worthily for this special and wonderful opportunity!

I hope and pray that Makay and I can create a worthy home for one of Heavenly Father's babies.

I am so excited!

Ryan's here!

2008-09-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

I know. I know. Apologies for the blog drought. It's been awhile.

Well, my little brother is here at BYU-Idaho with me! Yay! I'm pretty sure I have talked him to death, but I don't even care. I am having so much fun with him here. I for sure see him twice a week. We have him over for a real meal on Sundays, and he comes over to use me for our washer and dryer and also to watch The Office on Thursdays... but that's ok with me! He can use me all he wants!

This is Ryan voluntarily putting his arm around. Yeah, I know. I didn't even force him! (Hence the word voluntarily...)

This is everyone waiting in the very large line to get his housing situated...

This is Grams snooping through is roommates things before he gets there... It was hilarious...

... So I thought I'd give it a go, too.... is that bad?

I was trying to get Ry to smile for me, but he wouldn't... until Dad gave him a loosey-goosey...

Out of all the food he could have had Dad buy this was all that was left in the cart. He didn't milk it like Lace and me. He'll regret that in a few weeks...

This is his I-Card! Yay!

I love you, Ry... I'm so glad that you're here with me!

Member Missionary: Blog Style

2008-07-06T15:12:00.000-07:00

I was reading July edition of the Ensign the other day. I came across "Sharing the Gospel Using the Internet" by Elder M. Russell Ballard. I was intrigued by the title and read on. Needless to say, I was rebuked by the spirit. I haven't been doing much lately to share the gospel. I have been leaning on the "well, I'm kind of really busy, and how can I really share the gospel?" crutch. I continued to repeat this excuse to myself until I read the following:

"Now, may I ask that you join the conversation by participating on the internet to share the gospel and to explain in simple and clear terms the message of the Restoration. Most of you already know that if you have access to the internet you can start a blog in minutes and begin sharing what you know to be true..."

Yeah. I know. I was thinking the same thing. I have a blog, and I'm not using it as a venue for sharing the Gospel that I love and hold dear to my heart. I apologize for the disservice I have done to my fellow bloggers and also to my Heavenly Father.

So, as my first act as a 'Member Missionary: Blog Style' I am going to post my testimony as a new Page Element on the right side of my blog. I will continue to ponder ideas of how to share the gospel via my blog. Please, leave your suggestions!

Trip to Ohio

2008-06-22T14:01:00.000-07:00

Trip to Ohio!

I flew out to Ohio for my Ryan's graduation (pictures of the graduation already posted...). I had blast. It was so much fun to be home again. Once I was there it seemed like I never left... now that I'm gone it feels as if I've been gone for years. Why does time have to be so tricky?

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Mom and I having fun with the camera. When we took the picture #1 we thought it was really funny that her eyes were so closed so she over-corrected in picture #2. In picture #4 we were trying to make funny faces. Believe it or not... I thought I was cross-eyed. Yeah. I discovered my inability of eye crossing this day.

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There are three things my dad knows how to make: mashed potatoes, buttermilk pancakes, and chocolate chip cookies/bars. When I was little we would mix the cookie dough with our hands. Whenever I make cookies I think of him and can't help but smile. So this is us replaying some memories...

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I thought this picture was hilarious.

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Ry and I on his graduation. I love you! I can't wait for you to come out to school!

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The first time she put these on she didn't know one of the lenses was missing. My brother couldn't stop laughing, and she didn't understand why. What a dork. Love you, mom!

Ryan's Graduation

2008-06-22T13:34:00.000-07:00

Congrats, Ry! My brother has graduated from high school! I'm so proud! I flew back home to Ohio to attend the graduation and hang out for a week. It was so much fun! I had such a great time with my brothers.

Ryan was accepted to BYU-Idaho! Yay! He will be out there in the fall and... I will, too! After fall semester he will go on his mission, and I will only have one semester left until I've completed my Bachelors. So... this will be the only semester of school we will have together. I am so so so so excited!!!

Congratulations, Ry! I love you!

Yes... that is his diploma between my lips and his face... what a gooper...

Finally 21... and have been for two years

2008-05-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

It's official. I am finally 21, and I have been for the past two years. I got married young and have coincidentally lied about my age since then.

I apologize if you have been a victim of betrayal.

My birthday was spent with my aunt, uncle, cousins, and Makay in Nashville. I am SO grateful for family. My birthday was absolutely wonderful and I couldn't feel more blessed than I am right now.

My aunt and uncle (Amy and Doug) pampered me with relaxing bath salts, luffas, and a pedicure kit. Does life get better than the tub, a bath, and a book? I think not.

My sweet husband went overboard. We generally don't spend a lot of money on gifts. However, BYU-Idaho has come out with their Laptop Initiative. Every student will be required to have a laptop. SO... you guessed it. Makay found a really great deal on a MacBook. So here I sit in our living room, updating my blog on my very own MacBook! I feel so spoiled!

My Life: Tool Belts and Drill Bits

2008-05-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

Tool belts and drill bits. Does life get any better than this. I say unto you: Yay.

I'm not going to lie. I love working with my husband every day. I do. I really do. I do love wearing a tool belt and holding a drill. I love the look on customer's faces when they see me coming through the door to help install their security system BUT I miss being a girl! I miss wearing skirts. I miss not having wood chips fall into my eyes. I miss not being surrounded by boys burping and making other peculiar noises. Who knew?

However, exchanging my purse and heels for a tool belt and wire strippers is worth the time I have spent with Makay. I have had so much fun being completely absorbed in his life. I have learned so much about him through working with him everyday, and I wouldn't trade my drill for the world... (unless your offering the new white dress I really, really want... but that's a whole other post... just kidding!)

Update

2008-04-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has been so long since my last post! Thank you for all of the advice about working out! I really appreciate it.

I am happy to say that I have stuck with resolution! Woo-hoo! (with the exception of finals week, but I'm going ot let that one slide... shhh, don't tell...)

If I continue to keep at my goal then I will reward myself with a Modbe swimsuit! Yay! I absolutely LOVE them, but they're a little pricey so it has to be a want instead of a need.

Wants=Rewards.

Reward=Swimsuit.

Swimsuit=Happier and hopefully skinnier me!

On another note, Makay and I are leaving for Nashville, TN on Friday! Makay will be installing security systems for APX alarm this summer. We have loved working for them in the past and are excited for what will come this summer!!

New March Resolution

2008-03-18T07:58:00.001-07:00

That's right, Gym, I'm gunna kick your butt for a change...

Okay people, I'm for real this time. I'm going to start working out. That's it. I've posted. I can't can't turn back now.

I've been working out here and there, but not on any regular basis. I have this desire to be one of those people who loves to work out...who loves to run... who loves to eat salad for every meal with no dressing (okay, maybe that's crossing the line), but I'm just not. I love the feeling I get after I'm done working out, but it seems that's not enough to actually get me going...

Now, I haven't really come up with a solution other than to just do it. So that's what I'm going to do.
I'm just going to do it.
No more procrastinating.
No more rationalizing.

Now, knowing myself like I do... this new found resolution is not going to last long--hence the post, I figured this might extend my dedication. Are there any suggestions out there? Please make them! Anybody!!

My Sweet Makay

2008-02-19T21:20:00.001-08:00

I realize this is a belated tribute; however, I can't let this 'season of love' pass without proclaiming my deep appreciation and love for my sweet husband.

My heart has been full these last few days as my mind has been replaying the precious memories Makay and I have created.

The recollection of these moments has brought constant warmth to my soul and smiles to my lips. I find myself taking twice as long getting ready in the mornings because I must apply my mascara twice. You see, my smiles keep me from forming the 'O' shape needed to apply such a cosmetic. Just as I form my lips into the proper circular stance and swipe those lashes the following memories appear: my sweet Makay adding too much cornstarch to the Alfredo which converts the sauce into a solid; my love dancing to Michael Bubble's 'Spider-Man' theme song every morning after he jumps out of the shower; Makay 'mistakenly' putting on the pink jacket of my ten-year-old cousin just to make her laugh and giggle. The result of these memories always results in a removal and second application of my Maybelline mascara.

I thank my Father in Heaven every day for the great, undeserving blessing of this man in my life. He has placed an unknown, exalted happiness into the very center of my soul.

I love you, Sweet. Thank you.

Thank you for being the joy in my life.

I love you.

Russian

2008-01-21T16:11:00.001-08:00

This is an old picture (hence the "what the heck was she thinking" bangs), but it is the only one that properly describes the way I am feeling. No, my ears aren't cold, but I am going crazy. I have not enough time in a day--however, I am posting, how does that work? Procrastination, aw, yes. I am carrying a light load of credits this semester, but they are kicking my little booty. Hard.

Actually, just one of them. Russian. Ugh. I don't even like saying that word anymore. I took a Russian class when Makay and I got married thinking I would stop at one class. For some reason I continued to take them. Dumb move. Up until this point it has been fairly easy. This semester that all changed. You see, I am now in the class with all of the returned missionaries where as before it was just us "home grown" students. ("Home grown"= all students who didn't serve a mission in Russia and were stupid enough to minor in the language. Yes, minor. It is my minor.) There are 20 people in the class of which only 3 are home grown. Yeah.

My teacher is Russian. She is a great lady, but it's a difficult class. It doesn't help that for some reason I cry when I'm nervous. This is an extremely annoying reaction which I inherited from my mother. Needless to say, I've wiped many tears in that class. Some from nerves, but some from pure fear of a lowered GPA after this semester... which means no full-ride next semester, something I for sure thought I was going to receive.

It's a sorry excuse but this is why my posts are few and far between. I can't wait until this semester is OVER.

Update...sort of

2008-01-21T15:52:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm ready for another post. I'm sorry it's been so long. Life never seems to slow down. Even my break was high-speed relaxation. Is that possible? Huh.
Anyway. Here are some pictures of my Christmas break. The first few pictures were taken at my sister's house in Vegas....
I don't know why I'm explaining all of this because the only people who look at my blog know all of this information anyway. However, for the sake of my hope that more people look at this blog than comment, I won't spare any details...
This is my nephew Cade... he's basically the cutest kid EVER. He followed Makay around the entire time we were there. It was way too cute.

This is my beautiful sister with her adorable son... CADE-O

This is Cade helping Makay install some blinds. What a good helper he is!

This is Cade helping Makay eat his breakfast. What a good helper he is! Haha...

This is the only picture taken of me so I thought I would share. I don't really have anything to say about it other than I need to get a tan. It seems the color of Rexburg snow has seeped into the color of my skin.

Embarrassing!

2007-11-27T16:07:00.000-08:00

Wow. I don't have a lot of time, but this has to be posted.

I am at work right now. BYU-Idaho. There are a lot of important people here.

Let me take you back to a time when I was taking Psychology 111. My teacher was Brother Clay. He was completely bald and really skinny, but a nice looking man. He was about in his... 40's?

Well, at the beginning of the semester, he told everybody that NO ONE would get an A in his class. Statistics show that this is just not probable. From then on out I was determined. I was going to get an A. Well, I studied my little tooshy off and I got an A-.

Well, today, while I was working, he came into our office. I was kind of excited because I wanted to tell him that I got an A- in his class. Well, as he passed I said, "Hey, are you Brother Clay?" He turned around. Huh, I'm an idiot. It wasn't my old teacher. It was Henry Eyring!!! Now, it wasn't Henry B., but it was his son. He is an employee up here. Basically, my heart fell into my stomach, and I've felt like an idiot ever sense. I want to tell him that I really am a faithful church member even though I didn't recognize him. (Even though he is a splitting image if his father. HENRY B. EYRING!) He is in the next room right now in a meeting. Should I say something when he comes out, or should I just play dumb?

I don't think I'll say anything... ughhh... what a day...

Live. Laugh. Learn. (I guess...)

Montage

2007-11-18T19:06:00.001-08:00

I had to create a montage for my visual media class. Here it is! I love photoshop!

"Kid Date"

2007-11-18T18:51:00.001-08:00

Date Night

Makay and I decided to have a "kid date." It was basically one of the best dates EVER! I highly recommend it.

First we decided to make our own pizzas!

Then we decided to paint pictures! Ok, I know it sounds lame, but it was seriously so much fun!

I don't know why I look so weird in this picture. Just laugh.

These are our final masterpieces. Aren't they beautiful! They are still hanging on our fridge!

The SIZ reunite!

2007-11-18T18:36:00.001-08:00

Uniting of the SIZ

Finally. We got together. Kristin McFarland, Ashlyn Rockower and Shelly Nuffer. These are the girls that led and taught me throughout high school. I owe so much to them for the examples they set and the friendships they gave. It was fun to sit back and look down memory lane; however, it was also fun to talk about what lies ahead.

As I have I have pondered on who I am, what got me here, and where I am headed, I realize that the Lord truly uses regular people as instruments in His hands. We are each others angels down here, and we are serving Him.

These girls, specifically, have been my angels. They have let me cry on their shoulders, and they have made me laugh so hard that my stomach hurt and my eyes were watery.

Thank you for your examples. Thank you for for being the best friends a girl could have had in high school. Thank you for being you...

Lacie

2007-11-03T18:55:00.001-07:00

Well, I've told many of you how talented my sister-in-law, Lacie, is at painting. Well, any kind of art actually. This is my FAVORITE painting of hers. My pictures, obviously, don't do her justice. I just thought I share.

First Snow Fall

2007-11-03T18:41:00.001-07:00

Well this was the first snow fall of the season. It actually occurred a few weeks ago. I know. Unfortunate.

Why do I live here again? Oh yeah, that education thing. Huh...

Happy Birthday, Kylie!

2007-11-03T18:22:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, Kylie!
This post is really late considering her birthday was on October 1. Oh well. Isn't she so cute!?

Life is Good

2007-11-03T17:37:00.000-07:00

For my Mass Media class I had to make a movie. So here it is! It's about three minutes long. The main character is my brother-in-law, Colter, who is now on a mission in Albania! Woo-hoo! Go Colter! I know he can't read that, but it's the thought that counts, right? Anyway, the funny looking man in the geeky glasses is my silly husband, and the cute girl is my sister-in-law, Kinley. Thanks family for helping me!

PS: I know the music is a little off at the end... sorry!

Halloween

2007-10-31T16:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Well, this picture is in honor of my parents. When I was a child (when all of my siblings were children, actually) we were pumpkins. Not different pumkins, no no... this costume was passed on from generation to generation. Ocassionally I was a witch, but the default costume was always a pumpkin, naturally.

But that's okay with me. My mom wasn't a big fan of this holiday and subsequently, this love--or lack there of--has been passed on to me. Why do I need to knock doors for candy when I can just call my dad? When chocolate withdrawls come my way, I can always count on my dad to supportivley tell me that I deserve it. Thanks, dad!

Food Storage

2007-10-07T17:14:00.001-07:00

FOOD STORAGE

Yay! We finally have food storage! Albertsons was having a HUGE sale! Everything in this picture was $1.00 or $1.50! We spent $250.00 and saved $350.00. Isn't it pretty?

Road Trip

2007-10-07T12:28:00.001-07:00

I know it's been awhile, so I apologize for the delay. Here are some pictures from our road trip from Virginia to Idaho. Makay and I had such a great time together! I am so glad we had the opportunity to be stuck in the car for 36 hours together!

First Stop: PICKERINGTON, OHIO

We just happened to be in Ohio during football season! We went to one of my brothers football games. It was so much fun! It was awesome to see my little brother out there on the field. When did he get so big?

Second Stop: KIRTLAND, OHIO

Historic Kirtland is just three hours away from where I grew up. Makay had never been there before so we decided to take a trip up there. My dad was our tour guide... and good one at that I might add...

Al Phamale and me. I just love my dad!

This is Makay and me outside of the Newel K. Whitney store.

Third Stop: NAUVOO

Nauvoo was an amazing experience. We were only there for one day, but the experience is something that I will never forget. What an awesome time I had to share with my sweet husband.

All right, I know this picture makes the temple look a little uninviting, but it was the only one I had. I know... it's sad I didn't take some more. This temple is so beautiful. It's breathtaking, really. It is seen from almost anywhere you are in the city.

This is the Mississippi River. Isn't it absolutely beautiful?

Fourth Stop: FAR WEST

Far West was beautiful. I am so glad that we went. We were told not to expect much; however, I felt like I received so much from this tiny, dedicated temple spot. It was a humbling experience to reflect on the faithfulness of those righteous saints. What big footsteps they left to be filled.

Fifth Stop: ADAM-ONDI-AHMAN

This stop was a last minute decision. I am so thankful that some senior missionaries encouraged us to visit. This was my favorite. The sites were absolutely beautiful. I can not fully describe what I felt there. It was just amazing. Just standing and reflecting all that has taken place and all that will take place at this precious place... it was overwhelming.

Short Story

2007-10-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

I had to write the beginning of a novel in my Mass Media class. I wrote this in honor of my dad. Only those of you who know him will appreciate this...

It was a dark and stormy night. The rain pounded on the streets as Al Phamale ran toward the blazing fire. No one was going to get hurt tonight, not on his watch. Within ten minutes had carried everybody away from the building. He checked the vitals of all those who were in the fire. Everyone was alive, some badly injured, but all were alive. However, there seemed to be a faint buzzing sound coming from somewhere in the building, but he didn’t have time to think about that…

The ambulance arrived just as Al was bandaging a large burn-wound on the leg of a half-conscious victim. He stood and began to analyze the burning building. The new fire chief, Schven, ran up to Al seeking some counsel, “Well, Alpha, where did it start? Where did that fire start?” Just as he was about to answer, a screaming mother ran up him. He could not understand what she was saying through her deep sobs of anguish. However, because he was so in touch with his emotional side, he knew exactly what was causing so much pain and torment to the soul of this woman. Her children were still in the burning building.

Without a thought about his own safety, he ran into the flames. He called their names as he entered the hazardous inferno. Due to his hyper-sensitive hearing, he could hear children coughing from the third floor. How could he reach them? The stairs were too dangerous. It was just then that he noticed the pipe above the children. He pulled out his 75 foot rope—he was an Eagle Scout at age 14: Always Be Prepared!—and threw it up around the pipe. Naturally, it was a perfect throw. He climbed the rope without even breaking a sweat. He lovingly picked up both children and swung on the rope down three floors and out the door without even getting a scratch. Sensing the dehydration level of the children on the swing down, he grabbed a Gatorade to quench their thirst.

The crowd was shouting, “Al is amazing! Al is amazing!” As they were chanting their praise, Al once again heard the buzzing noise that he noticed earlier. The buzzing became louder and louder until it completely consumed him and then… he woke up.

Al looked at his alarm clock; it had been buzzing for a half an hour now. He slowly rolled out of bed. He reached for his thick coke-bottle glasses and didn’t even bother to comb his mullet.

JUST DANCE!

2007-10-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

Dance Class

Well, Makay and I are taking a dance class this semester. Makay seems to be the more experienced one out of the couple. You see, he as already taken the beginner and advanced course. So naturally, this is how I feel sometimes. "Makay, you know I can't do the twist."

It has been a really fun class, though! We have really enjoyed dancing together. He is sooooo patient with me. Our friends, Aly and Ryan, are in this class with us. They just make it that much better.

I am actually finding that this class serves as a time to just have fun! I can be a kid again!! Life plays silly games, and sneaks up on us entirely to fast. We all need some time to JUST DANCE!! Wow, do I sound like a fortune cookie or what?

The First Year...

2007-08-25T07:13:00.001-07:00

Makay and I have officially been married for an entire YEAR today! Where does the time go? It has been the best year of my life. Everybody says the first year is the hardest, but I disagree. This past year will never be remembered as the difficult one... it will be remembered as the time I found true companionship. The first year I woke up everyday to a beautiful face that I adored and many kiss that still make me melt. The first year I walked hand-in-hand with someone who would face every battle with me. The first year when my heart smiled as much as my lips did.

I have learned many things on this new journey of ours...

Something I have come to understand in my mind but which is still difficult for me to apply is the fact that it is not always right and wrong. It is possible for two people to have two completely different opinions and each opinion can be right! One person doesn't have to be wrong; though, sometimes it would be much easier that way.

Plainly stated: Boys and girls are different... in a lot of aspects... Pretty much everything I have come to understand can be sub categorized beneath this statement...

The greatest and most life altering thing I have learned is something which is continually being taught to me... how to love. It is amazing. The capacity of love that one being can hold for another. The only thing that I can compare it to is light. It seems that love and light have the same effects. They each have the ability to instill safety, protection, and guidance. Life is dim--if not dark--without each. I often wonder why it is that love is learned in steps. I know we have all experienced the incomprehensible feeling that we couldn't possibly love someone or something more than we do at that moment. Then a year goes by and somehow that love--that you once felt couldn't get any greater--has had an exponential increase. It wasn't until I compared light and love that I understood this concept.

"That which if of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth
brighter and brighter until the perfect day."

CELEBRATE

2007-08-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary!

We finally went to Paulo's Restaurant! I walk past this restaurant everyday when I go to and from work. It always smells SO delicious. We have been saving this restaurant for our anniversary. So... here we are... finally! The waiter let me pick where we wanted to sit so... I thought this cute table by the fountain was a good idea... more on that later...

This is my handsome husband. How could I not fall in love with this face?

THE CULPRIT

You know how I said the waiter let me pick our own table. Well, it looks like I chose to sit right under a bird. Go figure. The bird thought to relieve himself right on top of my head and arm during the first three minutes of me sitting on my chair. I immediately went into the restroom and cleaned up. I then returned to my chair to enjoy a beautiful meal. I sat back down in my chair because I figured a two-for-one deal wasn't in my future. I was wrong. I guess I was roaming this bird's territory because he did it again! It plopped down right there on my shirt. How rude! (Oh, I have realized that I have been wearing this same shirt in almost every post lately. I would lie and say it is a coincidence, but I really do wear it a lot. It's one of the five shirts I actually have out here in Virginia... and HE had to poop on it!) The sad thing about this whole adventure is the fact that I had to go straight to work after this... for 8 hours! So I had a bird poop stained shirt all day. Gross, I know.

Our waitress happened to be from Russia and when she saw what happened she was so happy! She told me that in Russian Culture when a bird poops on you in means you are a happy person. Makay had told me this earlier, but I thought he was just trying to make me feel better. Next time I'd rather not have the birds two cents on my happiness...

What a Looker!

2007-08-22T20:39:00.001-07:00

I just had to post this picture. Isn't my husband just so handsome! Woo... what a looker!

The Temple

2007-08-22T16:27:00.002-07:00

The Washington D.C. Temple

Last Sunday, Makay and I took a little trip up to the Washington D.C. Temple and the Visitor's Center. It was exactly what the doctor ordered. Just being on the Temple Grounds and walking through the Visitor's Center made such an impact on me. It truly is amazing. It was actually kind of frightening to realize that it has been awhile since I felt the spirit so powerfully. I think that one of Satan's biggest tactics is eluding the members into thinking they are spiritually in-tune when in all actuality...they're not . "All is well in Zion"....right?

The most powerful thing for me was the new Joseph Smith movie. I have seen it before, but the second time was just as good if not better than the first. The spirit was overwhelming. I felt such a surge of... what's the word... anxiety? excitement? I was enthused with the great need to share the gospel. I was in aw as I watched the life of Joseph Smith. He lived every moment of his life for the Lord and the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and he gave his life for the same righteous cause. Can I not just simply share this cause with those around me. Why do I fear placing a Book of Mormon or handing out a pass-along card? If I do not share this burning conviction within my heart, I fear that the life and death of Joseph Smith was merely in vain. So let us all press on. Out of respect, honor and love for the prophet Joseph Smith, let us strengthen our brethren.

My Life

2007-08-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Cradle & Crayon

Well this is where I am alllllllllllllll day long. The picture on the right is me pretending to work. I really just have fun all day long. What can get better than pregnant tummies and little babies?

My co-worker, Erin, and I recently started referring to Stella as 'Our Mom.' So, naturally, before she left for Peru I asked for an allowance. It is after I made this simple request that the picture on the left was taken. However this picture doesn't do her kindness any justice... my next paycheck I had a dollar raise....

The children's clothing is on the left side of the store. We carry many different brands... I love all of them! Tea and Cakewalk are two of my favorites. How come things are always so much cuter in miniature? Next to the clothing on left (sorry I didn't get any pictures of that portion of the store) are the toys that we carry. None of which have been recalled during this last rampage of recalled toys...

We carry a lot of Morigeau-Lepine furniture. This is a French-Canadian company located in Quebec. My favorite is the 5000 series in chocolate. Ironically, the crib shown in this picture isn't from this company. This is a Shermag crib. I wasn't thinking about displaying anything in particular when I took this picture so I apologize! The stroller in front (which you can only see half of) is a Phil and Ted's stroller. It is genius! I don't know if you can tell, but there is a seat behind the main stroller seat. So it can be a double stoller, but it moves and feels like a single stroller. PLUS, the extra seat is an attachment... so you can use it as a single stroller first THEN when number two comes along you just have to pop on the double seat. AWESOME! The red one is my favorite. You can see better pictures here...

Down to the far right are the maternity clothes. Only the sales rack is seen in this picture. Sorry! We even have some REALLY cute maternity clothes. I mean, really cute. Some of the brands are: Olian, Japanese weekend, Um a Nove, etc. Olian is my favorite. To the right of the picture are: polka dot, wood letters from New Arrivals; small diaper bags from Fleurville, slings by Hotslings (the Ana Stretch is my favorite print...)

These are a few of the nursing chairs that we carry. It is the Storytime series of Best Chairs. The mint colored one seriously amazing. That fleece jacket on the left is actually pretty hilarious. It is Daddy gear. It's a wearable diaper bag. Haha. There are hidden compartments for diapers, wipes, bottles, etc. We also carry fine art work for kids by Oopsy Daisy and Goodnite Moon. They have some really cute stuff... from murals to personalized growth charts....

Well here is where I work! I love it! I am so sad to be leaving. I have really grown to love this little boutique...

Texa Road House

2007-08-12T20:12:00.001-07:00

These pictures are dedicated to my mother: diet coke with a lime and a cherry. Does life get better than that?

Girl's Night Returned...

2007-08-01T20:00:00.000-07:00

GIRL'S NIGHT... AGAIN...

Well, our husbands have been out of town for the week and Aly and I were feeling, well, kinda bummed. We really needed a picker-upper if you will. So... what better way to feel OK about your husbands' absence than to eat at his favorite restaurant? TEXAS ROAD HOUSE... here we come! We spent the first 45 minutes doing and re-doing our hair and make-up so we would look good in the pictures... so our husbands could see what they've been missing. This is when I discovered that I feel a lot better about myself off camera than what I do on.