Schools Out!

Ryan and Lindsay have been out of school, since May 26. Ugh! It has only been a month and I am ready for them to go back to school. This summer is going to be long, since they are going back to a tradional school year. They do not go back to school until end of August. Ryan will be starting his 5th grade year and Lindsay will be starting her 3rd grade year. Wow, they sure have grown up fast. So far, we started swim lessons, summer camps, and membership to the Utah Natural History Mueseum. We have attended the Summerfest in Logan, family visiting, exc8ted to have family members moving closer to us, and been sick for over a week. Yikes, this is just the beginning of summer. The last six months have gone by very fast. I hope I can keep up.

Celebrating the BIG Four-Oh!!!

Dan celebrated his 40th Birthday with friends and family. Dan has been complaining about pains on his left side...tennis elbow and the t-band on his leg. Ryan and Lindsay were trying to keep things a secret, but Dad new from the beginning. The kids wanted to do a funeral for his foot. Of course, they over heard a conversation of mine. So, I had to make sure they were in on things and did Art projects. But instead of making a coffin they made a big mess making a maze. We did take pictures of his feet and made some tombstones. We were going to have a little quite moment and some over the hill music at the beginning and then have some fun while we eat. Things didn't go as planned, but oh well. Dan ended up Hosting his own Birthday Party, while I went to the Urgent care to have my hand looked at after being bitten by our dog Koda. Talk about taking the mood from a Party, before it even start. Anyways, that's a different story. I was glad to be home before he cut his cake and try to blow out his candle. We also celebrated his birthday on his actually birthdate January 31, 2012, by going out to eat as a family.

Pictures of Ryan and Lindsay 2011

Not so little Anymore! They are still my Two Silly Monkeys.

2011 has come and gone so fast!

I felt like 2011, I sleeped walked my way through. Yes, Literally! My kids have grow up so much. I can't believe Lindsay is now 8 years old and Ryan is almost 10 years old.

I feel almost energized. I had some health issues, but I am doing much better. I realized, I need to take care of me. I am not Womder Woman, or Super Mom, I am ME. I am learning to say NO and slow down enough to make sure I get some sleep. No more days of goig without Sleep for days and running on fumes.

Now the kids are getting older, I am looking at going back to days, just when I don't know yet. I am ready. Working 3rd shift for as long as I did was not easy and my health has taking a toll. I am actually not a failure, it was my body telling me to slow down and I needed oxygen. After spending two nights in a sleep clinic, I was not sleeping because I was not getting enough oxygen and I would stop breathing. No wonder I was so tried all the time. Yikes!

Ryan and Lindsay Off track....Yikes!

Three weeks off of school and no homework packets. Not a good thing for me. Now I have to make up homework and reading assignments to do. They maybe off track and think it is all fun and games, but the rest of us has to work. No play time for Dan or I.

I think my kids are getting bored. They are up playing through out the night. While others are trying to sleep. Here I am downstairs, working on my blog and my kids have been moving around above me in Lindsay's room. I am surprise Dan has not woken up.

This is going to be a long day. If my kiddos keep me up all day when I need to get a few hours sleep in since I just came home from work.

Any suggestions? I have another week and half to go before they go back to school.

I can't believe I have a 1st and a 3rd grader!

I feel like school just ended and it is already to start again. I guess that is part of being on all year round school.

This school year I will have both kids in all day school. Yeah, for me! Lindsay will be starting 1st grade and Ryan will be starting as a 3rd grader. Let hope this year will be a wonderful year at school.

I am back to doing my blog, again.

I know it has been a long time since I did my blog. It has been sometime.....the last 8 months or so have been so busy or stressful.

Dan's sister got married in November. Ryan turned 8 years old in February and he was baptized March 20, 2010. My lap top monitor died when my little guy cracked the monitor. Trying to save files or transfer files from lap top to main computer or USBs. House project after house project. I think Dan is sick of painting and patching holes. Never thought I would say....I hate it when things brake down and we have to replace it or repair it. It doesn't seem to stop with just one, but another one and another one.

Ryan and Lindsay had a hard time emotional with a lot of changes in their life from their truma past, present and what is ahead for them. I ended up taken 3 weeks off of work to get my mental health back in order and to get my family back on track. This way together we can get through the bumps in the road and enjoy the smooth roads when they come.

Well, I hope I still have followers on my blog. My blog helps me remember all the good days and forgot all the bad days.

The start of this year has come and gone so fast. I can't believe we are already half way through this year. We are going to make the rest of this year even better then the first have of the year.

Updating is a slow process

Sorry, I have not kept up on my blog! I have a lot to do and get caught up. We have been busy with birthdays, holidays and traveling to California for a wedding. I will hopefully have it updated in a week or two. Thanks for being patient.

Happy Birthday Lindsay!

Today is Lindsay's 6th Birthday. She has been counting down her Birthday for over a year now. This last month she kept reminding me every hour her Birthday is getting closer, and she is so excited. She can't wait to turn 6 and then 7, and then 8...oh my goodness, "I can't believe I am such a big Girl."

10 things we love about Lindsay

10. She doesn't like to take naps, but when she does, "Peace and Quiet."
9. Her excitement she has for everything.
8. She loves to...talk, talk, talk, talk.
7. She loves her Mommy and Me time. Me too!
6. I love it when she hugs us and tells us she loves us.
5. Did I say she loves to....talk, talk, talk, talk.
4. I enjoy it when Lindsay is a great helper.
3. She loves surprises.
2. I am glad we are able to be her family.
1. We love Lindsay very much for who she is.


Happy Birthday!!!

Updating Blog

I am working on updating my blog. I have posted some of our family highlights, but I am not done yet. I still have to go back and add photos. It might just be a little while. If you are enjoying what you are ready...just give it sometime and then I will have photos.

I have Springs!

Ryan woke up this morning and started to carry a conversation with me. It was a nice conversation.

"Mom, remember what Grandpa said". Of course, with all the things that have been going on. I am not going to remember every conversation, especially every conversation he has had with everyone.

"Mom, Grandpa told me I have SPRINGS". Then he goes on, "I think Grandpa is Right. I do have Springs in my shoes. I finally understand that I bounce a lot. Really a lot."

Ryan is a very energetic boy. That is right, he is All Boy. He is always jumping or bounce against furniture. We still love him even with all his Energy. Maybe he will be the next Energizer Bunny.

Lindsay first day of Kindergarten

Lindsay was so excited for her first day of Kindergarten. Then we found out her first day of school was a week after all the other school kids. She was bum she had to wait until August 3, 2009. Everyday for a week she had to watch her brother get up and get ready for school.

I was bum too. I was really looking forward to Lindsay starting school. The day finally came for her to start school. She was so excited. It was hard for me to get her to settle down so I can get a school picture of her. She already ran off to her class and seeing her friends. She rolled her eyes at me when I pulled her aside to get a hug good-bye or take a picture.

I was sad to have her not at home with me. The anticipation for her to go to school was gone. I REALLY miss not having her home with me most of the time. Of course, after a week I was fine.

Lindsay started to not like going to school since she kept having a card pulled at school everyday. When I asked her why; her response was, "I am a talker, and her teachere doesn't let her talk, talk, talk." She continues for the next hour talking about everything she did in school.

She loves coming home and showing me everyday she has a stamp. She loves doing her homework and being able to read books. A month of school and she is a new routine. But the Diva in her comes out every morning when she is trying to find the perfect outfit to wear to school...clean or dirty. Now that is another story for another day.

Our Beloved Pacey

On Monday August 24, 2009 our beloved cat Pacey passed away. She was almost 11 years old. We are sad she has passed away, but she is in a better place. She leaves behind her sister Parie, her protectors Koda and Bauer. She also leaves behind her owners who took good care of her and their kids who enjoyed chasing her.

Pacey was an unusually looking Calico cat. Another way to describe Pacey's looks was an Orange Tabby who fell down the chimney. She also had Big beautiful green eyes and a belly that wobbled when she ran.

She liked to mother her sister Parie. Sometimes, Parie didn't want to get a bath, but Pacey would fight with her until she can get her penned down to give her a bath. Pacey would hide from people unless she was seeking attention. She would surprise people with licking and grooming their hair. She would also make people jump when she meowed. She can be loud, especially when she jumps up and surprises you.

Pacey most of the time was an emotional cat. Even our vet has suggested anti-depressants or Cat Therapy. Yes, medication and therapy. She stresses out when there is change. She will lick and lick until her hair starts to fall out or a new sore appears. You always knew when she was around when she meows or coughs up a hair ball. She sneaks around and hides; until she has a moment to dash right pass you. But around me she was like any other cat; very lovable and happy. She loved to cuddle at night with me. Sometimes I didn't know she was there until I rolled on top of her.

She loves to have her head rubbed. And if you can't rub her; she will find other object to rub her head against. When you start to pet Pacey; she would collapse and start moving her head against you for one of her head rubs. She loved her scratching post or any kind of toy that she can rub against. Her favorite treat is Cat Nip. To her Cat Nip was a drug of happiness for her.

Yes, our beloved Pacey was strange, but she was our strange, stressed out and lovable cat. We didn't even know how close she was to her time. We hope she enjoyed her last few weeks with us. Her body was slowly shutting down. We did not know her kidneys were not working and she was dying. We thought she caught a cold and started to loose her meow. The day we were going to take her into the Vet; it was too late.

Pacey died in her sleep in her favorite bed while rubbing her head. I know that sounds weird, but she did. She had a smile on her face and her head in her rubbing position. Pacey will always have a place in our heart. We hope she is not giving the Angels up in Heaven a hard time. We hope she is in Peace, Happy and not stressing out over her new change. If she is just give her a rubbing toy with lots of Cat Nip. She will be just fine.

Andrew Graduates from BYU

My brother Drew graduated from BYU in Internation Studies. What he is going to do with that degree? At this time...I don't know.

Lindsay and Ryan were looking forward to the PARTY Uncle Drew invited them to. All day long they wanted to know when the Party was going to start.

Drew had a BBQ at the Park near his Apartments. He had a bounce slide and a joucing bouncer too. My kids were in Heaven. The bounced and bounced all night long.

Lindsay and Ryan thought Uncle Drew had the "BESTEST PARTY" in the whole world. I guess a bounce slide sure can make any kid feel WOW!


CONGRATS again DREW on your accomplishment.

Stadium of Fire

Ryan and Lindsay were so surprised when they found out they were going to a Jonas concert. They were both so surprised and of course it became their "BESTEST DAY EVER."

Ryan waited and waited but patience is not his best quality. He was bored with all the other 4th of July celebrations that was going on. But HEY...give a kid a pair of binoculars and it will all go away until the munches come. Instead of saying they are hungry. Ryan and Lindsay would say, "I smell something." Or "Wouldn't it be nice to have some family time and eat candy." Or "I remember when we had some popcorn watching a movie." We just smiled and set the thought aside for awhile.

Lindsay did not want us to forget we were their to have fun. She whispered in my ear and said,"Mommy lets go surprise Ryan and Daddy with some Soda." Yes, Lindsay and I excused ourselves to use the Ladies Room. I knew what Lindsay wanted. But I knew what I wanted to do. All the way to the Ladies Room Lindsay would talk and talk and talk.

After the Ladies room...Lindsay was quiet. She started to walk back to the Stadium. I said to Lindsay, "Didn't you want to Surprise..." and that was all I could say, she already changed her expression and dashed toward the concession stand. "I am so HAPPY you took my suggestion MOM." We got nachos, kettle corn, soda, and a hot dog.

When the Concert started...SheDaisy was the opener for Jonas Brothers. Ryan was bummed. He said, "Jonas Brothers are not Girls." Lindsay was happy to dance and sing. Finally Jonas Brothers were getting ready to come out....Lindsay was screaming and jumping, but Ryan had his hands covering his ears as he tells us, "Why are those girls screaming. I can't hear the music." Finally, when they came out, Ryan couldn't believe "JONAS BROTHERS were for REAL."

The evening was wonderful to see Ryan and Lindsay having fun. Dan and I were tried after a long day and thankful we had EAR PLUGS. TWEENY Concerts are not the best when you have lots of YOUNG GIRLS screaming through the whole concert. We must be getting OLD.

Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple

On June 20, 2009 our family was able to tour the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple. It was a wonderful event for our family. Lindsay and Ryan were excited to go. This well be their second time to be in a Temple. But their first time to walk throughout the inside of the Temple.

The were very quiet, which is Great. Especially, since Lindsay has been very LOUD lately when she talks. Our favorite room was the sealing room. Lindsay and Ryan kepted telling everyone, "We were Married in the Temple." and "We are a For Real Family."

Once we were done touring the Temple and we were outside. It was like the claimness in both Lindsay and Ryan were gone. The were jumping and running...until they saw the fountain. If we didn't stop them; my kids would have been swimming in the fountain.

It was a Beautiful day as a family to go and tour the Temple before it was dedicated.

Enjoying the Air Show

On June 2nd, 2009...another family outing...this time we took the kids to Hills Air Force Base to see their yearly Air Show.

Ryan and Lindsay couldn't believe all the Airplanes. They enjoyed watching the Air Show. Of course, it can get a little boring. Lindsay and Ryan had a bag each that they had to carry. They were so excited to find food, candy, juices, water, coloring books, crayons, sunglasses, hat, bubbles and a weird ball in their bag. Yes, I know it seems to be a lot for a kid to carry or even heavy. It was not. Only when they wanted off so they can climb on everything. It was also are way to hold on to them with the big crowd.

Mommy always know best; bring extra stuff to amuse the kids if they get bored. Ryan and Lindsay enjoyed having some time with Dad since it is his usually busy schedule at work. It worked out perfect for Dad to have a day off.

Here at the Air Show; they had a huge row of Out houses. Lindsay had to go potty several times through out the Air Show but refused to go into the Port A Potties. She was afraid of the MONSTERS. She did the potty dance while we stand in the long lines. Her potty dance and talking to her pee to not come out worked her way up to the front of the line really fast. Other People in line were letting her work her way up to the front.

Then it was Lindsay turn. She started to cry. I told her it will be OK. We get inside and she was crying and scream. She screamed, "I don't want the Monster to eat my Bottom." She finally Relaxed enough, but still was crying. Our little adventure to the Out Houses was a good hour experience, 45 minutes to get her to go potty. She finally concord her FEAR of the "Port A Potty Monster".

We had a very enjoyable and adventures day at the Air Show but a very LONG DAY. Next time we will check out the Museums.

Life can be precious

On a friends blog...she talked about a movie trailer called Precious. Goto http://www.tylerperry.com/, then click on movies. This trailer talks about a young girl who gets abused by her mom and put down with words that she is worthless and no good. She doesn't feel that anyone loves her.

Why do some parents do this to their children?

Life is short.

Life is hard.

Life is painful.

Life is PRECIOUS.

This is not part of Heavenly Fathers plan. We should love our children and teach them the gosple. My mom told me when we are discipline are children we need to come back with LOVE.

A few weeks ago, I had to give a talk in Church. I talked about Arming our children with the gospel. We need to make our family unit stronger and prepared. I came across some quotes in some reading I have been doing. I have been reading different books to make our family stronger and to teach the gospel to my two children. LOve jumps out in many of our prophets talks not hatered or belittling our children. Here are a few quotes I used in my talk.

President Ezra Taft Benson said in a crowd of over eight thousand five hundred seminary and institute students, “Make no mistake about it, you are a marked generation….There has never been more expected of the faithful in such a short period of time than there is of us….Never before on the face of the earth have the forces of evil and the forces of good been so well organized.”

We need to create the climate in our home by being an example, teaching our children the gospel and obedience. We have tools that are there to help us...FHE, PRAYER, SCRIPTURES AND OUR LEADERS.

Elder L. Tom Perry said, “The most important inner quality you can instill in a child is faith in God; the most important action a child can learn is obedience; the most powerful tool you have which to teach a child is love.”

Another quote...

President Joseph Fielding Smith gave us this instruction: “The family is the most important organization in time or in eternity…..Love each other with all your hearts. Keep the moral law and live the gospel. Bring up your children in light and truth; teach them the saving truths of the gospel; and make your home a heaven on earth, a place where the Spirit of the Lord may dwell and where righteousness may be enthroned in the heart of each member.”

We need to make our home a Heaven on Earth. We need to love our children and teach them so they can become responsible adults and strong in the gospel. These are the times, even the movies are showing negative, heart breaking, and the distruction of Family. It is sad that some children have to go home and it is HELL not a Heaven on Earth. We need to bring LOVE into our homes and teach our children with LOVE about the gospel. Our families need to be even stronger.

Shhh...It's a Surprise!

I am so excited to Surprise Ryan and Lindsay. I need to share it with someone...So I figure why not blog it. But this is on the download...HUSH, HUSH, HUSH! They do not know about this and will not know about this until we get there.

We are taking Ryan and Lindsay to see Stadium of Fire, down in Provo this year for 4th of July. Ryan and Lindsay just love the Jonas Brothers.

Last year, Uncle Drew took 4 year old Lindsay to her first concert Hannah Montana. Ryan was so BUM. Then Ryan heard Jonas Brothers were having a concert just weeks after at the E Center...but it was too late to get tickets.

Before having Kids, Dan and I loved going to one or two concerts a year. This is going to be so Fun to share this experience with them.

Will blog more on this later, until then....sShhhhh!

Dancing Moose 1K marathon

Lindsay was excited to hear her school was having a 1K marathon. She was going to run and win the race. She was looking forward to getting in shape. Lindsay and I were counting down the days until the marathon. We did little walks here and there. We were eating lots of good and health food. She was in training.

Is Lindsay going to RUN, WALK, OR PIGGY BACK RIDE?

The day final came...May 30, 2009!
Runner are you READY!

On your Mark, get set, GO!

Wait a minute!
That is Ryan in the blue shorts and blue cap running. He is passing everyone up. Even his sister Lindsay.

He was not suppose to run in this race. He was getting over from being sick. He had yesterday a 102 fever, a bad headache and cold. He was told he had to sit this one out. He can only observe and support his sister.

There goes Lindsay...RUN LINDSAY....Oops and then there goes Lindsay. The first runner down with a scraped knee.

I picked her up and carried Lindsay for a little while. I was telling her it will be ok. Let's brush it off and finish the race. She was done. Running was not her favorite thing anymore. This is the "WORST DAY EVER!" I told her it is not the end of the world. The day is not over and she can change the outcome to make it her "BEST DAY EVER!"

I finally got Lindsay to start walking on her own. She was still upset and complaining she didn't want to do this anymore. She has no chance of winning. She was to far behind. She started to cry more when she saw her brother already coming back.

Ryan was walking. He was coughing and did not sound good. When I asked him how he felt, he said he didn't feel good. I told him just to walk it off or sit down. He couldn't sit down. Why? He just need to catch his breath and he can't let that little kid pass him up and beat him. He then started to run again.

Lindsay was back to complaining again. Her brother was going to beat her. She kept on walking and complaining. I finally told her we made it half way and now we are turning around to head back to the finish line. Yeah! Keep going Lindsay we are now more than half way done.

I told Lindsay, I can see the FINISH LINE. Another lady walking beside me told me, "Your daughter already took off and left you behind."

There she goes...still running toward the FINISH LINE. I guess it is just me, left behind.

And as I approach the FINISH LINE....here awaits my two children. They are not waiting to Cheer me on! Ryan and Lindsay both said, "Mom your slow. We beat you."

Now it's time to evaluate Lindsay's injury. She did scrape her knee up, but it's not that bad. Lindsay said, her knee will feel better with a little kiss and a band aid. She got the kiss, but I didn't have a band aid in hand. The bandaid was eventually forgot.

All eyes went directly to the CLIMBING WALL!

Lindsay is such a good climber. She said, "Too hard, she had fun coming down. It was like a swing." I asked if she wanted to go again. She wanted to try and go higher. This way it would be more fun to swing down.

Ryan made it to the top. He was so excited he let go. He screamed coming down, "I did it!" He was so excited. He told me, "that was fun, let's do it again." We did it again, but this time he didn't make it to the top. He lost his footing and came down. He still thought it was COOL!

We had a picnic lunch, music, climbing wall, face painting and lots of different playgrounds to play on. We ended our stay with a little face painting. Ryan had a soccer ball and Lindsay had a butterfly. They both had lots of fun. Now it is time to get home and rest. Especially Mr. Ryan.

Lindsay finished the race even though she had fallen down at the beginning. She ran, walked and was carried. Ryan finished the race too! My kids didn't win the race. But it was all worth it! In the end all the kids were WINNERS!!!

I'm a Graduate!

"May 29, 2009 Preschool Graduation"

Lindsay is so excited to graduate from Preschool. She has been attending Dancing Moose Montessori since January 2008. She is sad to leave her "baby school and friends." She is excited to go to her "Big Girl school and make new friends." She will start this next school term in late July as a Kindergartner.

Ryan and I attended Lindsay Preschool Graduation. Lindsay was so excited to wear her cap and gown. The Preschool Graduates sang to us songs they have learned. Then the director gave a little speech and read a poem.

***************************************************

To whom it may concern:

I know numbers, I know shapes, Know that purple stands for grapes. I know red, and white and blue, I know green and yellow, too. I've made friends, know how to share. What is wrong and what is fair. Know what policeman and mayors do. Fireman and nurses too. I'm an artist, I can paint. I try hard not to say ain't. I have rhythm. I know sounds. I've had ups, and I've had downs. I've been quiet. I have giggled. I've sat still. At times I've wiggled...worked all year for this degree. There now, aren't you proud of me?

THE GRADUATE
***************************************************

As the director called each child up; she read what they wanted to be when they "GREW UP." Some children wanted to be teachers, policeman, fireman, princesses, speed racer, doctors, paleontologist and were very sincere about what they wanted to be. Others were sincere too! But it just sound really FUNNY!

A little boy wanted to be a singer at first but then become a famous Disco Dancer.

A little girl wanted to become a princess riding a unicorn in a sparkled dress.

A little girl wanted to be NORMAL.

A little boy wanted to become a Dad and then a really OLD MAN.

A little boy wanted to be come a contractor so he can destroy his friends house.

And last but not least...a little boy wanted a miniature train farm, so he can build miniature trains, since this world does not have them.

Do you see why some of these were FUNNY?

And then Lindsay's name was called. Lindsay wanted to be a Queen. Not a Princess like all the other girls but a Queen. I could not believe this is what she wanted to be. Her teacher told me, she wanted to be the Queen so she can be the boss just like her Mom! Now that is funny.

I guess I am BOSSY! But who didn't know that already. LOL!

She was sad because they didn't tell everyone what she wanted to be. She wanted to be the Queen, so she can rule the World and be the boss just like me. They only told people she just wanted to be the Queen. But her point was to be the Boss. I had to find a place to laugh. Lindsay was serious. I didn't want to laugh in her face. She is my little Drama Queen and little Miss Diva.

I told Lindsay that Dr. Joyce's microphone had problems because of the wind. She said it, we just could not hear her very well. She was fine with that answer.

I can't wait and neither can Lindsay for her start her new adventure in Kindergarten.
Congratulations Lindsay for your accomplishment!

Tooth Fairy, Tooth Fairy I've lost my tooth!

I was so excited. On May 24, 2009, I lost my very first tooth. I was scared at first. My mom was trying to help me. It really hurt to wiggle. I had my two bottom teeth already coming in and pushing on my baby teeth. I am not a baby anymore. I finally wiggled and wiggled my first tooth out.

Now I can call the tooth fairy to come to my house. My mom made me jump up and down and scream as loud as I can for the Tooth Fairy to come to my house. Did you know, she came to my house and gave me lots of coins and left me a note.

Here is a picture of me and with a missing tooth. I look silly.

Then a week later my other tooth came out. Uncle Drew helped me this time. He tickled me to make me forget about the pain. It was fun. I got to call the tooth fairy again. She brought me more money. I am so excited to have lots, and lots of money.

I woke up the next morning and my holes from my missing teeth are gone. My other teeth moved in. It is funny to lose my teeth and they grow back.

From Lindsay

Happy Mother's Day!

This has been a wonderful Mother's Day weekend. Let's start with Friday. It was the first Friday in sometime I had the day to myself. Ryan and Lindsay were in school. My husband's work started their Overtime for the summer. I had 4 hours, that is right 4 hours to myself.

Once the breakfast dishes and a load of my laundry were done. It was ME TIME! Everything else can wait until the kids got home or do on another day. What was I going to do? I could have a pedicure, massage, sleep, or I can do window shopping. Ok it wouldn't be window shopping; I could never just window shop.

I enjoyed the quiet time soaking in my big tub, watching a Nora Roberts movie, and had a nap.

It was nice to have me time; which put me in a good mood. Ryan then comes home from school all excited with what he has for me for Mother's Day. I told him it is not Mother's Day until Sunday. Then Lindsay comes home from school all excited with what she has for me for Mother's Day. I told her the same thing; it is not Mother's Day until Sunday.

As I started to make Dinner, the kids were outside playing. I changed my mind on what I was making for Dinner. I made Sweet and Sour chicken from scratch. Something different for a change. Lindsay and Ryan were done playing. The first thing they said; Wow! It smells good in here. Your the best cook ever. Watcha making.

My hubby came home from work and took the kids to the Mall; while I finished up with Dinner. Ryan and Lindsay were so excited. Lindsay told Dad she wanted to buy me all this stuff. Dad told her we are going to get a few items. She was sad until they walked in to a few stores. Ryan could careless until the last store. He was excited to be in a store full of chocolotes and they were passing out samples. Once they got home they wanted me to open everything up. I told them, it is not Mother's Day until Sunday. Everything was wrapped up nicely with the name of the stores...but I am excited for the box of See's chocolate and the little box from Kay jewelry.

Lindsay and Ryan excitement was still very HIGH to open something. Maybe it was the chocolate suckers they had at the mall. Anyways, I told them...we can have a sneak peek of Mother's Day by them bring in their gifts they did at school.

Ryan made a card for me and gave me a coupon book. He was so excited until...I started to read all the coupons of jobs he can do for me. He decided that was a mistake to give to me. Lindsay teacher helped her fill in the blanks of a letter and I got some melted chocolates. Both kids enjoyed helping me eat the melted chocolates. Lindsay told her teacher my mom's name is Lindsay too! I know everything. My favorite colors are PINK and CHOCOLATE. My favorite hobby is SLEEPING.

Friday was a nice start into Mother's Day.

This morning was nice. I was able to sleep in until about 8:30am. I found Ryan and Lindsay in my bed with the TV on at a low volume and the channel on 33 for Disney cartoons. My two kids now know how to turn the TV on and they recognize the number 33 is for Disney. Wow! Downstairs the TV was also on and on the channel 33. The downstairs TV was turned on by Dad just before he left for work.

The day began with a Mommy and Kids breakfast date at McDonalds. Then it was off to a doctor appointment for Ryan and then we had a few errands to do. I decided to have a family day doing yard work and cleaning house. My motivater was to redeem some of Ryan's coupons and one of the errands was to Walmart for them to pick out an a $4 item. This item they can have and only have once the jobs were done with no complaining. Ryan picked out a new SOCCER BALL and Lindsay picked out a PINK plastic golf bag with clubs and balls. I also picked up some books.

It worked! They did not complain and they worked together. Ryan and Lindsay picked up all the dog poop and helped me mow the lawn. Then it was on to the kitchen, and their bathroom. And the final job was going through their drawers full of clothes. We went through every item of clothes....keep, DI, trash, and recycle pile. And we divided up the clothes into summer and winter piles. They also got a bath and were excited to go out and play.

Saturday was another nice day leading up to Mother's Day.
I am starting to like Mother's Day! It really should be a weekend event.

The best part of being a mom is reading to my children. I told them I enjoy cuddling up with them and reading a story. I enjoyed it when my mom read to me and I want them to have a memory of me being their mom and reading to them too. I gave my children new books as a gift from me to them on this Mother's Day. Ryan and Lindsay were excited to have new books.

Tomorrow is MOTHER'S DAY! I am excited to really enjoy MOTHER'S DAY this year. And that is because my kids are excited to really celebrate it with me. I am enjoying all the hugs and being told they love me, your the best Mom, and my favorite thank you for being my mom. (pause for crying)

My two children have only been in my home since the fall of 2006 and have come a long way. We went through tough times after the adoption in 2007. I can now say I have no regret. I am proud to be their MOM; through all the good and bad.

I want to wish all the Mother's out their Happy Mother's Day. And Thank you for sharing your advice with me. It was very helpful as a new mom with two children; now 5 and 7 years old.

For all of you mom's who have not read this book...The 5 love languages of children. It is a must read. This was the book that helped turn things around for our family. We were able to bond with our children. This book was referred to us by a friend.

I wished this was a book the Therpist had suggested to us to read first before all the other books. This was the most important book. We would have been able to strengthen our bond with our children from the very beginning and be able to move forward as a family.


Lots of Love this Mother's Day,

Melissa

Saturday Night BBQ

If you had a brand new home and good size backyard, would you have a BBQ? Of course you would. Now let's look at it a different way. Your brand new home has light color carpet, stairs, piano, fire pit,no furniture and a backyard full of dirt. Would you have a BBQ and invite your family over with their kids? I am thinking NOT.

Josh and Loretta are expecting their first child. We are very thankful for the hospitality and opening up their home and being Host and Hostess. We are hoping we have not scared them away from having anymore kids or maybe we have paved the way of what to be prepared for in years to come.

Josh and Loretta's home was a dream come true for all kids. Plenty of room to run around and get dirty. The kids had a wonderful time. Of course, Ryan heard Uncle Josh had a Ball. Then his focus was the Ball. Before the rules were explained, Ryan already kicked the ball at the sliding glass door. Thank goodness, no windows broken.

All the girls were running around up the stairs and to the loft. Then someone found Loretta's piano and all the kids were drawn to playing the piano. Now, Eva and Lindsay were drawn to the fire pit and the torches. Yes, they were lite. No one got hurt. An adult had to be outside all the time.

Josh's BBQ just would not lite. No problem, move to plan B, the oven. Now this is where the discussion of a double oven would have came very valuable. Even though it took longer to get dinner going. I did not hear any of the kids crying they were hungry. The were to occupied with having fun. The food was excellent.

Darkness came and the party for the kids went outside to the fire pit for smore's. It was a nice evening to hang outside and a few still lingered inside for a nice conversation.

Thank you Josh and Loretta. Please remember the good times as you find little finger prints not coming off or foot prints soled in the carpet. Remember paint does wonders for covering walls and besides that plan of replacing the carpet may come a little sooner than later.

From Collages

Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday morning started off with Breakfast at Fedderman's Camp. Then after Breakfast kids can run around and play. They had horses, zip line, play ground and plenty of places for them to hide eggs. The kids enjoyed the Easter Egg Hunt.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

It is Spring Break in Utah. Were do we go, of course, California to see Grandma, Grandpa and cousins. Ryan and Lindsay were excited to goto Six Flags with Grandma and Grandpa. They wish all their cousins could have gone to, but they had work and school. Bum deal.

We hoped for a beautiful day, but we did get rained on. The kids enjoyed seeing all the shows or events for the whale, seals, dolphins, sting rays, sharks and pengins. They were bum they could not see all the other events with the elephants, tigers or other wildlife. We were not able to find the path to get to them. Their map was not a very good map.

The rides were either to small or too big for Ryan and Lindsay to ride. They were bum again. We tried to make it a fun day. Ryan and Lindsay kept saying it was their bestest day ever or their worst day ever depending on what happened.

Lindsay and Ryan enjoyed being up close to the Dolphins and learning to give them commands, feeding the seals, and watching the seals and killer whale perform. The kids did get to go on a swing and the log ride a few times. Lindsay liked the log ride the first few times, but then she got wet and it was raining. Ryan loved it and wanted to keep going. Especially, since no one was in line, they were letting continue ride it over and over again.

From 04/10/09 family trip to Six Flags

We finally found a roller coaster that Ryan can ride on. The Tony Hawk Big Spin. As we got closer, Lindsay was able to ride it too. Both Ryan and Lindsay were excited. Lindsay is all strapped in and Ready to go. Her hands up high and scream this is COOL. Once it dropped and started to spin. She was ready to get off. Ryan was still screaming, this is Sweet.

Six Flags was ok. I would rather go to Disneyland, San Diego Zoo and Sea World, since there are more for are kids to do and enjoy. Maybe next time.

Ryan and Lindsay did have a wonderful time spending with their Grandma and Grandpa. They love California and all the different things they get to do or experience. Ryan said it would be more fun if all the cousins could have been their with us too.

From Collages

We can't forget the Beach!

Ryan and Lindsay all the way from Utah to Calfornia, kept telling us we can't forget the beach. We decided to take them to Baker Beach. For anyone who has been to California knows there are miles and miles of beaches. Not all of California Beaches are the same especially when you are in Northern California.

From Easter2009

Now check out that view. We had the whole beach to ourselves. Maybe, part is because of the weather. Oh well, it was a nice day to spend together.

From Easter2009

Ryan and Lindsay couldn't believe we were still in California, because this was not the same beach they went to in Southern California.

From Easter2009

We also had the chance to go on the Golden Gate Bridge. It started out to be an oops we missed our turn off. Ryan and Lindsay loved going over all the bridges. We stopped to walk on the Golden Gate Bridge, but Ryan and Lindsay were happy with how far they were already on the bridge, but ready to go to the beach.

From Easter2009

Ryan's own scrapbook

I finally finished Ryan's little book. His seemed a little harder than Lindsay. I still used a template, but had to make adjustments. I used as Ryan's headliner, just a part of the opener from Star Wars. It was not easy. I am just waiting for it to be proof read and then it is off to the printers.

I haven't forgotten our Family blog!

Hello Friends and Family, I really haven't forgotton our family blog. I have just been busy with other projects. My kids don't have baby books to look at when they were little. I wanted to make them their own special book. I am also taken all of last years blog post and putting them in an album book too. It is just taken a little more time then I expected. Once I am done, then I will start to catch up on our family blog with some new post.

Look what I did!

I did my first Heritage Maker scrapbook. I am so proud of myself. Lindsay is excited to have a scrapbook all about her. As soon as I am done with Ryan's scrapbook I will post it.

I had so much fun. Yeah me!!!

Great Job Kathyrn!

I just wanted to say "Great Job" Kathyrn for an awesome job she did in putting together our family Camping Trip. This is a scrapbook she did online.

Ryan and Lindsay were excited to have a book about our camping trip. Yeah, Aunt Kathryn for being so creative. I am happy too. This is one less book of memories for me to scrapbook.

I have looked at and tried different online services to do scrapbooking online. This is one that looks like someone worked really hard to scrapbook. Kathryn, we need to hook up. I will love to do the kids a book or two.

Tagged

Ok - I saw this on a few friends blogged and it had the following only about her. So I guess I will do the same and add it about me. If you are reading this...now consider yourself tagged.



5 THINGS I WAS DOING 10 YEARS AGO:
1. Living the newlywed life of 1 1/2 years....double income, no kids.
2. I worked for Zions Bank as the Merchant Teller.
3. Went from zero debit to In debit A LOT due to Medical Bills from Dan's seizure the year before.
4. Not liking being ALONE....because my husband started his new job at Coca Cola and worked nights. I only saw him on his days off or not at all during the summer months.
5. I was ready and wanted to have a Baby.

5THINGS ON MY TO DO LIST:
1. Clean, organize and get rid of the extra clutter and crap in our house.
2. Sleep
3. Lose weight and excercise
4. Go back to school.
5. More sleep.

5 SNACKS I ENJOY:
1. Lemon Bars
2. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
3. Pretzel's dipped in white chocolate or milk chocolate
4. Fruit especially Strawberries during strawberry season
5. Chips and homemade salsa ranch

5 THINGS I WOULD DO WITH A BILLION DOLLARS :
1. Both Dan and I quiting our jobs, save some money and travel.
2. Buy the house of our dreams fully furnished and closer to family out of the state of Utah.
3. Own a second or third home for vacation in Hawaii or Italy.
4. Maybe not be so selfish and give some money to family to enjoy.
5. Own Sedo's or a House boat to have fun on the water.

3 HABITS:
1. I talk LOUD.
2. I love to Shop. See why I need the Billion Dollars.
3. Tell my husband, "I love you " every morning when I get home from work and he is a sleep.

5 PLACES I'VE LIVED:
I moved around a lot...but not too far and not too exciting.
1. I lived with my parents in Riverside, California.
2. In the Avenues with Roommates Salt Lake City, Utah.
3. In Old Farm Murray, UT with my Husband.
4. In our House on Asplund Cir WVC, Utah.
5. In Buena Park, California until I was 5 years old.

5 JOBS I'VE HAVED:
1. Newspaper Carrier
2. Golden Spoon
3. Nordstroms
4. Zions Bank
5. Discover Card

Happy 37th Birthday Dan!

January 31st, 1972

Dan is a wonderful cook, handy man, house keeper, landscaper, dog walker, husband, father, friend and Eternal companion. He always makes me laugh. I just have to watch out sometimes when he plays his practical jokes. He is a very loving man and has a lot of patience. Believe it or not, he has me on a pedal stool and treats me as a Queen. He knows me the Best.
My husband is an OLD MAN! His bones are already aching and he is always complaining about the new gray hairs he is finding and the new places hair can grow. Just kidding my love. Ha, Ha, Ha!

Dan was a cute and happy baby. As he gets older, he gets even better looking with age. He has beautiful, and honest eyes. The crows feet around his eyes just means he is still always smiling.



These are a few photos of my husband when he was a little boy. Doesn't he look like Ralph minus the glasses from the Christmas Story in this photo.

Happy Birthday Dan!

I love you very much. As we always tease each other and say....I you once I love you and if it ever changes I will let you know.

LOve you infinitely more,

MiSsy

P.S. Save this date January 31, 2012 on your calendars. I am planning Dan's Black 40th Birthday.

2009 Family Newsletter

Our Second Family Newsletter

Ryan and Lindsay are happy to be in our family. But it is not easy to start a new path. They are trying to find their own way to attach. We are learning how we can help them to move forward. That has been our Theme all year.....Keep MOVING FORWARD

This year the Lindsay Clan had a family camping trip. Ryan and Lindsay enjoyed getting to know their Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Grandparents. They can't believe they have a big family. Ryan kept asking why their can't be more Ryan's than Lindsay's. We just laugh and try to Explain. That doesn't seem to work. He even asked if Uncle Drew can become a Ryan.

Around the same time we were having this camping trip. We had family on Dan's side visiting from Indiana. They also headed for California. We were able to spend time with the Neely's in Utah and in California for a few days before they headed back home. We went to the Park, Beach, and the Aquarium. We has so much Fun!

Ryan and Lindsay were able to spend time with their Uncle Drew. Ryan was able to go hang out with him and go see Kong Fu Panda. Lindsay was excited to see Hannah Montana at the Stadium of Fire. Thanks Uncle Drew for spending time with the kids.

Dan hit his 10 years with Coca Cola. He has been working hard on all the Honey to Do List. He was proud of his painting projects of doing Lindsay and Ryan's room. Ryan loves his checker pattern wall and Lindsay loves her stripes.

As for myself, I have been sick every month. I can't seem to get rid of this sinus infection or catching whatever cold my kids brought home from friends or school. I didn't think being a mom would be this overwhelming and hard. I am on my 8th year with Discover Card as an Account Manager Specialist. I enjoy blogging, making quilts, reading a book for enjoyment, and finding the best in my children.

Ryan finished Kindergarten and started the 1st grade. He loves to play soccer, and excited he is learning to spell and read. He is like any normal Boy....full of Energy. Ryan was so excited to learn how to ride his bike without training wheels.

Lindsay loves ballet and pretending to be a Princess. She loves Hello Kitty and Princesses. She has been attending preschool. Somedays she loves it other days she just wants to stay at home with mommy.

Both kids love their new rooms they were so excited to choose there favorite colors. And to decorate them with things they like. They were happy to make it their own room.

Lindsay's room is Pink and Chocolate. She has two different pink stripes with chocolate doors and trim. She has Hello Kitty decals on her wall. She loves her new Hello Kitty's and her Hello Kitty comfortor. We are still finishing up the decorations in her room. She is looking forward to the brown letters spelling out her name on her wall, and her decorated mirror. The theme in her room is Hello Kitty.

Ryan's room is Blue and Chocolate. He has two different blue squares all over his wall making it a checker pattern on his wall with chocolate doors and trim. He has Transformer decals on his wall. He loves Transformers. He also has Transformer comforter. The theme in his room is Transformers. He is waiting for his Red letter to go his wall spelling out his name.

As we go through old photos...we can't believe how much they have grown. We are looking forward to another year to continue to move forward as a Family.

We send our best to each of you and wish everyone a Happy New Year.

Dan, Missy, Ryan and Lindsay.

Here is our decision on a Christmas Card.

It will be late mailing them out. But that is okay. It will be going to mostly Family members and a few friends. It all depends on who's addresses I have. If you didn't get one, I am sorry. That is why I am posting this to our blog and facebook that way everyone can see it. We do wish everyone a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year.

I will after the New Year post a Our 2nd annual Family Newsletter on the blog.

Should I or should I not do Christmas Cards this year????

I have been a tried and not feeling to Hot,OLD lady this year. I don't know how other Mom's do it with more than two kids. I am proud to say my Christmas shopping for my little family was done before Halloween and wrapped mid November. But when it comes to Christmas cards...I haven't done them. I have been trying to decide on a photo card, card with no photo, blog newsletter, no cards, cards or just a photo of the dogs.

Now I am behind. Dan already started to make and pass out cookies to his families he Home Teaches without a card. Thank goodness I didn't have to make the cookies, too. That's Dan's job. But as his wife, I am embarrassed. Dan passed out cookies in sandwich bags. Good way to improvise.

Anyways, here are a few photos of the kids in their Christmas outfits around the tree. If you don't get a card. I am sorry and please accept my apology. I just am to OLD and tired to keep up this Holiday Season.

Lindsay's Ballet Recital 2008

Lindsay is in her second year of Ballet. She had her first recital yesterday, December 17, 2008. She was excited to have a new teacher this year. She had new friends and few friends from last year in her class. She was excited to see Aurora and Mindi.

This years class is bigger than last years class. Her custom this year is florescent lime green and purple. She was excited to be on state again. Lindsay was excited to see her Aunt Debbie, cousin Ellie, Aunt Marie and Aurora's family at the recital to see her and Aurora perform.


Here is a photo of Lindsay and Aurora waiting their turn to go on stage. And quick photo of Ellie, Aurora, and Lindsay before the girls get distracted with other pretty customs. Oops, to late...not quick enough....have the backs of their heads or doing something else. Oh, well.


A little brief family History: Ellie is Lindsay and Aurora's cousin, since Aunt Debbie married Brenda's brother Brett. Brenda is Aurora's mom and Lindsay's ballet teacher from last year. Funny huh? Debbie was the one who suggested Lindsay take ballet class from Brenda. It has been wonderful getting to know Brenda and Aurora.

Lindsay is excited to have her ballet performance on our family blog. She is very proud to not be "Shy." Like she would ever be shy. She is a Miss Diva.

Lindsay is the one on the very end. And Aurora is five down from Lindsay. Sorry, not the best focus job on the video...let's blame it on the lights and being rushed.

Christmas Lights!

We enjoy Christmas Lights! Sometimes when we are driving at night and we see a neighborhood with ligts. We seem to be taking a detour to look at all the pretty lights. The last few years we made it a tradition to go downtown to see the Christmas Lights at Temple Square.

This is the best way to teach the children about our Savior. And how Christmas is not all about Santa. It is about the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. We saw a little video from Luke II; which showed a clip about the birth of Savior.

Ryan and Lindsay love the Temple. Every time they see a Temple, they would say, "We've been there." or "Can we go to the Temple together as a Family, again?" or "Look I see another Temple." Each time a different comment.

Of course, no family outing is complete without pictures. Here are some picture of our trip to the Temple.
We wish everyone a "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year" this holiday season.

Ryan's 1st grade Class Project!

Hola this is Ryan. Welcome to my family blog. We are learning all about family customs and celebrations in our class. We don't have a traditional dress or dance. My parents are not from a far, far, far away land. My Mom and Dad are born and raised in the good ole' USA.

Looking at all the things we do it revolves around family and church.

In my family we celebrate all the Holidays. Out of all the Holidays Christmas is my favorite. On Christmas day after all the gifts are open we like to go as a family to see a movie. What is funny; my cousins will go and see the same movie on Christmas day and they live in another state....California.

For Christmas we have for dinner Turkey or Ham, homemade cream corn, mash potatoes, salad, rolls, stuffing and of course the yummy desserts. Everyone looks forward to the homemade cream corn. It is our families favorite.

We do a gift exchange with another family on both my parents side. On my dad's side they have a memory question they have to answer. Kinda like a remember when we were younger. At Christmas we will get everyone's memory and laugh. We have a book with the last 9 years of funny memories of my dad's family as a child.

We like to travel to California at least once a year. We have lots of fun with my Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents (Lo Lo and Lola), and cousins. We have gone to the beach, camping, museums, zoos, and of course Disneyland.

Our family has a tradition; they take lots of photos and keeping a journal for us....Genelogy. As you can see my family has a blog about our life as a family together for the last year. Our blog address is twosillymonkeys.blogspot.com, funny huh? My mom thinks my sister and I are silly monkeys.

The top 10 list about my family:

10. They are all silly monkeys and talk funny. My Aunt and Uncles speak different language because they served a Mission in another country. My other Aunt is from Mexico. We like her tradition of having a Pinata for Birthdays. Yeah for Pinatas and all the goodies inside.

9. Traveling to California to visit family and do something fun like Disneyland. Coming Disneyland for 2009.

8. We have a fun time playing in the snow around Christmas time.

7. Going to the movies on Christmas, and Thanksgiving.

6. We eat funny foods; like worms in the mud when we go camping. (oreos, chocolate pudding and gummy worms....Yummy, yummy in my tummy.)

5. I love seeing my Lo Lo (grandpa) and Lola (grandma). They travel to see us during the Christmas season. Lo Lo and Lola; when it snows, I will save the snow for our traditional snowman making.

4. I enjoy learn a little bit of Spanish or Cebuano from my Uncles and Aunts. I think they are funny when they all use a different dialogue. They like to tease us.

3. Summer vacations; amusement parks, pools, parks, camping, Utah Arts Festival, sporting events..Yeah Soccer...etc. I like having fun, fun, fun with my family.

2. We set the tree up as a family, decorate, sing songs, and star lights on the outside of our house. My mom makes homemade goodies to eat while we decorate. This Friday we will be doing our family decorating for Christmas.

1. I can't wait until Christmas has come to open up all my gifts. Because...my birthday is next and I will get to open more gifts from my family. LOL!

Thank you, for taken a moment to look at my family blog. We have lots of fun. I have attached some of my favorite photos.

Pretty Sweetie.

Signing off Ryan

Happy 35th Birthday

Today is my Birthday, November 30! Hey, it is my birthday and I chose to be lazy and waste my day the way I wanted to; Relaxing! Ok, it helps to have my Birthday on a Sunday.

I am now Thirty-Five years old. The OLD part, I wish I didn't have to feel. Thirty-Five is another milestone in my life. I am happy that I am old enough to know something, but still young enough to enjoy my life.

I had a good 35 years, I still wish I can look and feel 23 again. But I know that is not going to happen in this life time. Hopefully, in the next life. I have a lot of good memories, some sad memories and a few memories I wish I didn't have. That is all part of life. I choose to focus on all the good memories. I will have many new memories to come.

Top 10 list; This is one Birthday weekend I am not going to be able to forget.

10. Losing Lindsay in the Mall.
9. Lindsay telling everyone all weekend long it is my birthday and adding another year on each time. I think we ended at 45, when I told her I am not 45.
8. Lindsay and Ryan singing loud, "Happy Birthday!" all weekend long.
7. Ryan reminding me I am 30 years older than Lindsay.
6. Eating at the Cheesecake Factory for my Birthday and NOT being sung to. Thanks to the other Melissa being sung to at the table across from us.
5. Lindsay telling me I can have anything here at the mall, her treat. Then going up to Dan and asked him for his credit card.
4. Having my Birthday on a Sunday; means I can Relax.
3. Taking a nap and Lindsay quietly singing to me and cuddling with me.
2. Dan, Ryan and Lindsay cleaned the whole house while I was taking a long nap.
1. Dan made my favorite cake; Lemon Jello Cake.

Love,
Missy

We made it the rest is A Piece of Cake!

On November 24, 2007 Dan and I were sealed to our two silly monkeys. We accepted the mission to survive together as a happy family. It has not been an easy year, but what family doesn't have their struggles or challenges. Our struggles and challenges just had a little bit of adjustment to figure out and of course dealing with Reactive Attachment Disorder.

We are excited to share our lives with two silly monkeys; Ryan and Lindsay and be a forever family. We want to Thank all of our family and friends who have been a wonderful support system for our family. It is nice to hear the phrase, "That is Normal."

I can't believe our silly monkeys have been with us for two years and officially one year as a family. They are excited to be in a big family with lots of cousins, Aunts, Uncles, and Grandparents. When our families get together; they have a blast with all their cousins. We can't believe it has been two years already.

Things are getting better and our family is slowly becoming a stable home for Ryan and Lindsay. Both kids are trying really hard to move forward and trust that we will not give up on them. This is another New Year for us to work even harder to over come any new or old challenges. We survived the 1st year; the rest is A Piece of Cake! Just kidding.

Enjoy the photos; of our day at he Temple a year ago. Wow, how they can grow up too fast.