Robbie, Kate and Thomas

Beaver and Baby Hearts

2012-02-02T16:02:00.002-07:00

It’s been a while since I’ve wrote down anything, let alone in our blog. But I have a second today and wanted to update. Rob is doing his family practice rotation for Medical school in Beaver, where he grew up. It’s a month long rotation, and he is loving being back in his old stomping grounds and seeing people at the clinic. It’s a rare medical practice in that since the town in so small, these family practitioners are allowed to do almost all procedures…all. So Rob is getting tons of surgery, colonoscopies, baby deliveries, and about everything else. We are staying with his parents there in Beaver, and I thought I really could do the “small town” thing. Well it turns out the “small town” really isn’t so much my “thing”. Ive spoiled my child living in a super active area with preschool, weekly zoo & museum visits (season pass), pool, and play dates almost daily. It’s pretty easy when your whole ward in in one apartment complex to always entertain your 3 year old. Beaver, not so much. We needed to come home every week for my doctors appointments anyways, and after my week trying to figure out how to entertain my kid in the in-laws house with nothing to do, we decided that we’d come back to Salt Lake during the week, and do weekends with Rob, since that is when he saw us anyways. We miss Robbie, but are happy to have some things to break up our days here.

This week was a little crazy to start off with. While down with Rob this weekend, Tommy said he was feeling sick. Understatement. He was sick all day Sunday and through the night. At one point in the night, I went in to see him throwing up on himself but not waking up. He was unresponsive, and I panicked and threw him in a blanket and in the car to go to Primary Children’s. Upon having him evaluated, I was lectured on the risks of dehydration. I reassured them that they are dealing with the most OCD mom there is, and I don’t mess around with my kids being sick. His levels in his blood were so off the charts that they said this is when little bodies start shutting down. It made me sick that within 8 hours my kid was so dangerously ill. They admitted us to make sure that he could level out, and 13 hours, 4 ½ IV bags later, and Zofran, we were able to get home. That very same day I had the appointment for my baby that I have been dreading for weeks, and I knew I had to do it without Rob.

With all the karyotypes coming back normal, all of us were shocked. They said with the levels I had, it would be likely there would be heart problems however. This was still a relief to hear knowing that we could fix most of them so the baby could live. I had to wait till the baby was big enough that they could do an echocardiogram on the baby itself. Crazy how they can do it on a BABY! I had the EKG done, and had 2 different doctors come and do it, as the first one was sure that maybe she was missing something. But she wasn’t…WE HAVE A HEALTHY HEART! The baby is anticipated to have a perfectly normal heart at birth, and be normal. I sobbed of course and felt the urge to throw up for a few seconds, but called Rob. We both were thrilled, but still had weird reactions inside. It’s like we finally can be excited that this baby is going to make it, but we didn’t know how to handle that news and try to start to be excited. We have had nothing but worry and tears for months, and now in the matter of one day, we flip the switch and are supposed to be unworried and ready. We didn’t want to set cribs up, go through storage and get the baby stuff cause it may be too hard to put it back. Now we can, and we need to get used to the idea that all will be okay, and this baby is coming in about 12 weeks. Now we can finally soak up the miracle that is inside me and not worry about what will happen when he’s born. He will be like every other baby as far as we can tell, and it is a miracle. There are times in your life when you say, “Wow, we got so lucky”. This isn’t one of them. This isn’t “luck” at all. This is divine, and we know it. Drue is meant to come to us, and we are going to work on getting ready for this little powerhouse of a spirit.

Gift giving for the Wife..Husbands listen up

2011-12-08T12:33:00.004-07:00

My cousin came up with this list for what husbands should and should not do for gifts, and I thought it was great. Take a look: I think almost anyone could benefit from a few basic tips/rules/suggestions for more effective holiday shopping.

So here we go:

1) Don't buy her jewelery. Unless you have really good taste.
2) You probably don't have really good taste.
3) things that are out unless specified on her list: electronics, exercise equipment, cleaning supplies, things for her car.
4) Ask her friends. Ask her friends what their favorite books are, and get her one that she doesn't have yet. Same goes for music and movies.
5) Instead of buying her clothes, give her a gift card to her favorite clothing store. It isn't tacky or impersonal. It's a gift with three purposes. !) she gets new clothes. 2) You're giving her the gift of shopping. Most women will tell you that at least half the joy of clothing comes from shopping for it. That's why they call it "retail therapy". 3) Now she already has a way to go blow off some steam the next time you upset her. ;)
6) If you go unique, stick with her style. Don't give a vintage treasure to a contemporary minimalist. Do give the antique butter churner to the farmhouse knick knack collector.
7) Give the gift of time. Time away to relax at a massage, pedicure, or haircut. Time together at a concert, theater, or bed & breakfast (hey, that one probably benefits you too!) Time you spent on fixing/creating something for her.
8) Think ahead. Don't limit yourself to gifts that can only be enjoyed during the winter months. Get her and the kids season passes to the pool, zoo, or amusement park. Plant a bunch of bulbs in the yard when she is out one day, and give her the gift of anticipating a flowery spring.
9) Think: "What will make her life easier or more enjoyable?" when giving gifts of service.
10) Even if you "stick to the list", make sure there is at least one surprise for her. Even if it is a pack of her favorite gum tucked into her stocking, some hair product one of her friends recommends, or a kitchen gadget.
11) Try not to sabotage her goals. For example, if you know she has a resolution to lose 20 lbs in 2012, don't give her a gift card to TCBY, and don't stuff her stocking with a 6 month supply of harry and davids. Instead, if you know she wants to read more, get her a book, run more, load up her ipod with good running music or get her a jogger pepper spray, Gatorade, and some Gu, or a cute bag to put her workout gear in. Notice how careful I was to not include a workout video or gym membership in that list of suggestions. Whether she wants to create, travel, write, save, or learn, try to think of ways to build her up and help her do those things, rather than gifting something that will distract or prevent her from doing what she wants.
12) Nothing beats a handwritten note. And words of appreciation are free.
13) Now, make the holidays easy and go make a list of ideas for her to get for you. There must be at least 10 things on the list that are under $40. Because let's be real. Men are SO much more difficult to shop for than women.

Happy Christmas!

Tommys Message from Santa

2011-12-05T15:44:00.005-07:00

You've got to do this for your kids...or grown up. Its amazing to see his eyes light up and talk back to Santa. Pretty fun. Free and worth the 5 min to create. Check out Tommys:

http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/m1uMxMWstytEDYit5TXcCeg

Party of FOUR!!!

2011-11-13T14:28:00.003-07:00

Ive been waiting and waiting to write and announce...but wanted to wait till we knew everything was ok. YES! We are having baby number 2!!
We are thrilled and feel blessed. Tommy is so excited to be a big brother and apparently in preschool walks around with a baby on his shoulder saying it his "new baby". He said from day one that we told him that's its a baby brother...and he's right...so far. We have been going through a lot of genetic testing, and in all the ultrasounds weekly, they are pretty sure we are having another BOY!

Testing is very scary, especially when you get results that are not what you want. The same thing happened with Tommy...false positives for terrible things...but now the new baby is showing some not so good sighs either. Further testing will help us feel at ease in the next few weeks. Keep us in your prayers.

I was hoping the second time around...no such luck!! Ive been just as sick. HORRIBLE. Like cant get out of bed most days. My Mom came in to take over, and it couldn't have been a bigger blessing since Rob is busy with surgery rotation. What would we do without help? Its hard for me to ask for cause I feel like I cant return the favor...But we all need it.

My Parents still Rock it

2011-10-30T18:26:00.005-06:00

So, this post is mostly for family, for any Willardson will have little memory of an event where the uncles or my parents are singing.

My parents met in a folk band. Story goes, my Dad was passing by an apartment where he heard a girl singing in through the vents...It was my mom. He had a band, but really wanted a female lead. My Dad is rather shy, so the next part is shocking. He knocked on the door and said he loved her voice, and wanted her to come to their band practice to check them out. My mom said she could go only "right then", so she went in her curlers to the practice. The rest is history. They were their own band at their wedding, barefoot and all.

Growing up, at least a few times a week, my dad would play his guitar to us individually in bed for lullabies. I know, I'm a lucky kid. My childhood was mainly the Beatles, James Taylor, Bob Dylan, and other classics.

My parents have always been in some sort of band. My Dad just started a new classical guitar one with some guys he knows. Not many Hippies turned CFO's keep rockin like he does. Ive always wanted to have my parents hit a professional recording studio and record all our childhood songs. This has yet to happen. However, my Little Brother recorded my parents at a cousins wedding this weekend singing very randomly, and a few other childhood songs with my Dad just practicing. Notice he is sitting outside the closet on the stairs. This is mainly my Dad in these videos...I hope to record many more, but this is what Tommy and I have been watching all day. Miss you Mom and Dad!

My dad played this at their best friends funeral, Lisa. She was from Idaho and loved this song.

Politics

2011-10-19T15:02:00.001-06:00

SO We aren't huge into politics, but this made us cry and pee ourselves.

Love My kid

2011-10-12T18:52:00.002-06:00

I don't know if Moms every these experiences like I do... Some days you struggle just to get through without wanting to REALLY yell at your kid. Or hearing your name, oh, every 15 seconds. Then, there are the moments that hit you like a wave...LOVE. WOW. How could I love someone so much? How can his giggle, smile, and personality just be better than anything to you some days?? How can it be that after I put him to bed, and I'm saying my prayers asking me to help me better a better, more patient mom...I'm filled with love and sneak in his room, get into his toddler bed WITH him, and hold him. Only cause if I didn't, I swear I would burst. Funny, cause most nights, its a countdown till he gets in bed, and others, I just want to hold him. Why?? This is why...

The movies of our past week...Tommy going under anesthetic for getting his teeth done. Yes,I filmed it like any good mother would.
Tommy being a Lion. Need I say more?
Tommy being his Dad and his friends only form of entertainment some days.

Catching up with us...The past two weeks

2011-09-20T16:50:00.003-06:00

This year, Robs sister Suzie moved back to town from Missouri with her 6 girls. Tommy is loving his cousins and Auntie Suzie! They invited us on their family outing to the Midway Swiss days and the Sheep Dog tournament. I thought it would be weird, but it was a total blast!!

Tommy milking a fake cow with Abbey

Tommy finally has got his "imaginative Play" going in his little brain. he is loving to dress up all the time, This is a new Pirate costume we bought for him to play "Jake and the Never land Pirates".

My little man started preschool!! Its hard to believe...I know people say that, but really, it is. It is just down the street from us, and he is in the morning session. We chopped off his mo-hawk the night before so that the teachers wouldn't judge him, or label him as a "bad Ass". Little did we know his new teacher will, would have tatoos everywhere, earings, and green painted finger nails. He probably would have been teachers pet had we kept it.

The little play yard at the school.

Tommy showing off his puzzle skills, and me trying not to cringe at how dirty the puzzle is.

Meeting will and his teachers for the first time.

My most treasured video by far...him running to his first day of school. I think no one runs well in backpacks, but somehow, he looks adorable.

On 9/11, we reflected as a family the many sacrifices we have been through due to this day in history. Two deployments, Rob seeing men wounded and killed, and the sacrifice that is still being made today. As little as people understand that kids sense things, they do somehow.I caught Tommy and his friend Charlotte our by the flag that I thought was a perfect idea of what a child might think of this day...something to respect and think on.

The life of a mom

2011-09-02T07:12:00.002-06:00

So, I remember when I was in college and thinking, "My life is so crazy. How can it get any more busy"? Then, I was married, working and going to school, and the thoughts reoccurred. Then, Rob went to Iraq and I was working and alone...same thoughts. Now, those thoughts of"Seriously, I'm so dead tired" happen daily. I didn't think having just one kid was too much work...I mean people around me have like 3-8 kids, and seem to manage just great. But I was wrong. Most days I feel like I'm a clown of sorts, constantly trying to entertain and stimulate Tommy. Then, laundry, dishes, meals, and all in 800 square feet of cinder block. Trying to get through each day making sure I haven't screwed my child up to the point of therapy.
Then I remember how much I longed for this, to be a mom. How long I prayed, the health struggles I deal with to bring a baby here, and it humbles me to the core. Sure, there are days where I hope no one can see just how pathetic I am, and try to appears that I have it all together. When in reality, WHO DOES? May all us moms just take a deep breathe and realize we all have TONS going on, be it 1-8 kids, and we are all doing our best! Pat on the back to us.
A friend recently posted this article on her blog...I loved it. Thanks Jana. Us Moms need some validation some days.
click on it to enlarge.

Month Update: St. Matrin, 24th of July, Rob Turns 30!

2011-08-01T14:05:00.004-06:00

About 5 hours after Robs Medical Board exams, we headed off to the Caribbean to an Island called St. Martin. It was wonderful! We actually got to be with each other for more than a few hours, and find out that we still really did love eachother. Ha ha.

Robbie and I were in charge of the Stoker reunion this year in beaver over the 24th of July. In Beaver this is a huge deal, Rob said it was better than Christmas for him. To top it all off, Robs parents were made the Grand Marshalls this year! We all congregated together to celebrate and we in the parade.

We had a family Luau that night and played family groups games. it was so much fun!
Rob turned 30 this year on July 30. I wanted to make it a fun and special day, so I planned a huge surprise. I arranged for him to go skydiving...something on his bucket list, not mine. He was floored and a little scared, having to "walk the walk after he talked the talk". Our nephew Ryan went with him.
Rob also decided to cut T's hair into a Mohawk. A Drastic one. He looks like a mixture of native American and a punk rocker.

The board Exam...and BIG trip...leaving Tommy

2011-06-23T17:36:00.004-06:00

SO, lots will be happening this week. Rob takes his board exam for medical school (AKA Step One of the Boards) on Sunday. He has been doing 12-14 hour study days the past 2 weeks on top of studying the past year. It will determine where we get into for Residency. No pressure, right?

With all of this, and realizing we wont see him at all next year, we decided (with the advice for many older medical students) to do a trip just us. It will most likely be the last vacation we will have for quite some time alone. We leave just hours after the test. So, we are leaving Tommy in Beaver with Robbie's family...the first time Ive left him somewhere overnight really...HUGE GULP...I think I'll be more homesick for him than anything...

Then head off to the Caribbean to the island of St. Martin...

Don't be jealous please. We deserve this!

Memorial day...are you "earning it"?

2011-05-31T14:22:00.003-06:00

While most just think of Memorial Day as just another day off of work and school, we are trying to actually let it sink in. I won’t lie, I often thought of Memorial Day as a great camping trip and BBQ. Having Robbie be a Veteran now twice over, I think that we have a bigger responsibility to actually honor those who came before and served. We started going to the Military cemetery a few years a go and putting flags and flowers on soldiers’ graves. It’s a small cemetery, and some soldiers’ graves are from the 1860’s. Looking at all of them it is hard not to feel humbled at what you are actually looking at. Lives that were sacrificed for MY freedom. Rob is now among the elite and smaller group of individuals these days who can call themselves Veterans. There is a bond that he talks about among the Brotherhood of Military men, one that most can’t understand. Rob asked if we could watch “Saving Private Ryan” to reflect on those who sacrificed. I was, as the first time I saw it, moved to tears from the first scene as the young men called out in pain and for their mothers. My own thoughts turned to my son and whether he would ever know war, and how I pray he will never have to be afraid like that. I wondered how these men had the courage to do what they did, and keep going when you felt like the world was caving in. Rob explained the immense amount of training that you go through in Basic training and how they prepare you for everything. But can anyone ever be prepared for war?

At the end of the movie, I noticed Rob crying (he will love that I'm writing this). There is a scene where the man who saved the private that he needs to “Earn it”. Earn the freedom and chance he got to live, while others didn’t. Rob said through deep introspection, “Am I earning it? So many people have died in war…why not me? Why was I protected? Why am I the lucky one”? The thought has often occurred to me how lucky we were to have Rob come back from war untouched. But he was more worried if he, too, had “Earned it”. While it is closer to home for one who has served or their loved one, shouldn’t we all think for just a second, have we “earned it”? Earned our right to be here with loved one, choosing professions, raising families with freedoms of religion and speech? Why are we so lucky? The answer is because of others sacrifice. What am I doing with that? Well, first off, I’m going to celebrate every holiday honoring our country and its service men. Still that isn’t enough really, is it? We should live to our potential that these freedoms offer, and feel grateful we have a choice. Whatever political stance you take, it shouldn’t matter whether or not you honor those who gave their all for you. Are you “earning it”?

On a side note of amazing things that we enjoy, Robbie finished his second year of medical school! Half way there!! We have the board examination at the end of June, and that’s the big kahuna. From there he just works like a dog at the hospital…but no more classes at least! He couldn’t have done it without the incredible help of his friends in school with him.

welcome Year 3!!

Unwinding after finals!

Update: Some funny Videos...

2011-04-26T16:58:00.005-06:00

Tommy loves where we live cause he always have a friend nearby. Tallie has been his friend since birth practically...he loves playing with her, even if it means he wears a dress. Rob was appalled at this picture.

Every Wednesday we go to a Mom and Me time at "bouncin off the walls" with our neighbors Peyton and Jeni. We love it!

Here is a funny video where Tommy took his first poop...he was rewarded with a New Thomas the Train set...PERCY. Not to be confused at what he calls it.

One big snowman with Dad. Rob Goes big or goes home.

Updates: Rob and Kates getaway

2011-04-26T16:53:00.004-06:00

A few weeks back, things were getting pretty stressful. My Mom came into town to relieve us from Tommy for a night or two. We skipped town and went to Vegas baby!!

Serendipity Cafe...Frozen hot chocolate! Yummy!
We went to Cirque Mystere...pretty weird but cool from the 2 row!!Who needs Italy when you have Vegas?

Updates: Tommy turned 3!

2011-04-26T16:39:00.004-06:00

Funny how I avoid blogging cause I feel that I'm so far behind...only leaving me to keep piling up pictures and events to blog! So here it is...maybe a few posts to show you what we have been up to

THOMAS TURNS 3!! Tommy is obsessed with Toy Story...and Buzz light year in particular. It been nearly impossible to pry him out of this costume. We did a Toy Story party, and invited anyone who wanted to dress up with him to join.

Our favorite Mexican place made Tommy his own cake. Nasty, but sweet of them!

A new Hair cut for Tommy at Cookie cutters. They do it in kids cars so they sit still. Genius.

Tommys party...there were 3 Buzz lightyears.
My attempt at an alien cake...
Freeze ance with a bubble machine. My attempt to have a rave with Tommys nursery class.

One of the games we played. "Pin Woody or Buzz on the Bed". Rob later informed me that this was a dirty game for kids.

2011-03-23T08:03:00.005-06:00

So with Spring upon me, I’m finding it hard to find the “Spring” in my step when it’s snowing and raining outside. Rain, rain, go away…right? Well, I decided to think about how it’s not so bad after all…I noticed the tulips outside my house. They're trying so hard to push through the soil, only to be trodden by the snow for days. Well, isn’t that like life? But I know they will keep on. It made me smile. Then I got in my car and decided to turn the radio up to the top volume and sing Taylor Swift songs (Go ahead and make fun of me; I'm a teeny bopper) at the top of my lungs. Thomas was laughing so hard insisting I do it again. Of course I gave my star cheerleading performance for him, smiles and all. I realized how happy it made me. So many little things can lift the soul. Here are some other things I’m grateful for and make me happy today, despite the lack of signs of spring…

· Good toilet paper. I hate the stuff at stores. You need like 35 squares. I like having my stuff at home. And one day, I can afford to buy the fancy stuff that feels like pillows on my butt!

· Velcro on Tommy's shoes. His converse has Velcro. They don’t look like handicap kids shoes or anything, but they make life easier.

· Good pillows and bedding. I LOVE my bed.

· Shoes. I have crappy bunions, and have resided to the fact that I no longer can walk around in cute high heels chasing a 3 year old. I have fallen in love with the UGLIEST shoes on the planet…shoes you only see hippies and old people who need orthotics wear…Dansko clogs. I swore I would never be seen in public in ugly shoes, yet its all I wear now. I got these for Christmas. It’s all I got cause they cost an arm and a leg.

· Perfume. I love smelling good. I love smelly things.

· Diet coke of course…which I will be cutting back on…three 44 oz. a day just isn’t right.

· Free utilities (included in rent) at my apartment. Crank up the heat!

· Baths. I take a bath almost every night with salts and relax. Some say that’s weird. I say necessary.

· FRIENDS.

· A husband who is AMAZING…hot, sweet, SMART, thoughtful, funny. And the best father a kid could ever ask for.

· A dishwasher, I hate doing dishes by hand.
Diapers..disposable. I couldn't do cloth...washing and drying. Or like the old days, washing and hanging them to dry. We are blessed!

· Scotch tape…ever thought what we would do without tape?

· Movies…Anything that takes me away. Namely, Anne of Green Gables, Pride and Prejudice, and chick flicks.

· Automatic locks on my car.

· My Vacuum. I have to vacuum everyday, and if I had a crappy one (I did) you notice. I love my new one. I appreciate how good it is now!

· Music- it can lift my mood and calm me, and make a party!

· Medicine- Keeps me working.

· Thomas- my biggest blessing and challenge some days. My constant companion for the next 15 years, the little voice who is always calling me, and the one who always brings me to realize how lucky I am his mom.

· Cell phone- what did we ever do without them? What did our parents do??

· Pajamas- I have a collection of them.
Frozen yogurt- Yum!
Fresh Flowers

So many things can make me happy in one day or hour. I just gotta sit back and think about it and REALIZE it.

Hard day, and Days ahead.

2011-03-17T08:13:00.003-06:00

"Mortality is a period of testing, a time to prove ourselves worthy to return to the presence of our Heavenly Father. In order to be tested, we must sometimes face challenges and difficulties. At times there appears to be no light at the tunnel's end-no dawn to break the night's darkness. We feel surrounded by the pain of broken hearts, the disappointment of shattered dreams, and the despair of vanished hopes. We join in uttering the biblical plea "Is there no balm in Gilead?" We are inclined to view our own personal misfortunes through the distorted prism of pessimism. We feel abandoned, heartbroken, alone. If you find yourself in such a situation, I plead with you to turn to our Heavenly Father in faith. He will lift you and guide you. He will not always take your afflictions from you, but He will comfort and lead you with love through whatever storm you face."
--Thomas S. Monson, "Looking Back and Moving Forward"

Life is full of trials, and we all have them. Today, this quote and this clip gives me comfort.

I count my blessing...I am grateful for my kindred spirit friends who are here for me. Most of of my best friend and partner Robbie. Don't know how I got you. Lets try to laugh through this, or help me to.

My Throw down at Costco...and my realizations about Motherhood

2011-03-02T21:18:00.005-07:00

Yesterday, we had our weekly visit to Costco. As most moms know, it can always be a challenge to keep your kids entertained during a shopping trip and strapped into the cart. Tommy is no exception. He was screaming to "walk" and "pweeze get out". I finally gave in, and he was playing hide and seek with me most the trip. Yes, I was frustrated, but we got through it. The lines were terrible, and another young mom got in line behind me. Her cart was blocking some of the passing traffic. She had 3 kids, one 5ish, 3ish, and a new born. She was darling, her, and her children dressed to the tens. Her 3 year old began a tantrum, and the 5 year old wandered off a bit. Next thing you know a person trying to get by says, "If you cant control your kids, tie your tubes"! I gasped. The mom immediately broke into sobs. I had overheard this, but I asked the lady who said this, "excuse me, what did you say"? She replied,
"I said just what everyone else is thinking in their heads right now". I then said,
" No. I don't think anyone is thinking that at all. I think everyone is thinking, 'what can I do to help you out', or 'I have been there before', or 'wow, she is so brave'. No one is thinking what you are thinking. I really hope that you don't have any children with your thinking".
The young mom then yelled through her tears, "How dare you tell me that"!
Next thing I know the manager is there and, as a large circle has formed around us. The angry lady in her mid 30's yells,
"I can say what I want, its a free country! She should"!
I then am told that I need to move the line along by the cashier. I'm happy to get out of the situation, and afraid that I might use some really bad language at any moment that would negate anything good that I just did, or seriously hit this lady. My heart is racing, and I am perplexed that people have the guts and actual thoughts like this woman had. It actually was making me so angry and at the same time making me want to cry. Motherhood is so sacred to me. To me, it is very much a CHOICE. Every moment of every day I choose to be Thomas' mother. I choose to be unselfish, feed him first, dress him first, his needs always before mine. It is what makes me happiest...odd how that happens naturally. Because putting anyone else first usually doesn't make you happy. Sure, it can be hard some days. Some weeks I struggle. But I wanted nothing more to be a mother. I wanted it more than air at one point in my life. Motherhood isn't something that comes or came easy to me...I work at it. Then some days, it flows through me like Ive been doing it all my life and for past lives. Depends on the day.
To ever call someone out on being a mom, or their ability to mother...there is no greater sin in my eyes. I guess only because it is my greatest fear of not being a mother. I suppose its everyone deepest fear. I saw it in the sweet mom when she burst into tears in public when someone said she shouldn't be a mother...her greatest fear actually realized by a stranger. So I guess we really are all the same. No one wants to be judged as a mother...so don't. Don't judge other mothers, and don't judge yourself so harshly. Realize we are all doing our best, and that is enough.

Once there was a snowman...

2011-02-21T15:08:00.003-07:00

Phones are amazing these days. We love our iphones, and we love them even more since we can do videos and face time with my family who are far away. Tommy knows them like they are just down the street it feels like. Crazy technology! So we sent my parents a picture and video of our awesome snowman, and of us singing "Once there was a snowman".

No more than 5 minutes later did we get this response video back from Mana and Popop.

Wow, aren't they the coolest grandparents ever?

Jack Bauer Valentines

2011-02-11T14:02:00.004-07:00

So, my cousin made these homemade Valentines..."24" themed. For those of you who know the Willardson clan, we are all "24" the TV show lovers. If you are as well, you will love these. Thanks for letting me steal these Jenny.

The Day Tommy almost died

2011-02-05T21:33:00.002-07:00

All before 10 AM........

Tearing the plastic off the side of the treadmill....

Purple permanent marker on his red Pottery Barn chair (he got another chair to boost himself to get into the drawer in the kitchen). Look close at how much he colored.

Need I say more?

Cinderblock Heaven?

2011-01-26T20:41:00.004-07:00

So, for those of you who have visited where I live, you know I live in Married student housing, and have since 2 months BEFORE we were married. Our housing resembles a state penitentiary from the outside I have been told once, and my dad once said in a family Christmas letter that it made Saddam Hussein's bunker look nice. All jokes aside, we have made our cinder block apartment (going on over 7 years now, with a slight break with an Iraq deployment) as cute as possible. We have put plenty of our own money into this place to make it livable, and still some days, I wonder, is it livable? I find mold, mushy walls, and everything going wrong. Lucky we have maintenance who "fixes" things...yea right. The other night I was taking a bath, and while in the bath I was examining the bathroom. Looking at the cracking walls, patched up pipes, painted over mold, uneven floor. Wow, I don't even think this would pass for a $20 motel in a bad part of town...or a bad country? But I know it is bleached and CLEAN! Then, I went to clean and dust the house, as it gets dusty here super easy with the circulating vents...and then I lost it...I do live in HELL. Well, for a clean freak. Look what I found under our wedding picture where I dusted not too long ago... So other village residents, don't breathe too easy. What the hell are we breathing in here? And for those of you non-poor, non-students, able to live in a houses with non circulated air with out crap...rest easy tonight!
So, this isn't dust...its like dirt! I'm like scrubbing it off to get it off the wall! The white square is the wall where the picture was hanging next the the white hutch in our bedroom.

A great Christmas gift

2011-01-23T21:22:00.003-07:00

So, for Christmas this year we asked my parents to get us Season passes to places around town instead of other things. This way it can keep us busy and be fun and educational for Tommy at the same time. Wow, I sounded like a good mom there didn't I? I'll be sure to print this out for his journal. So we got passes to The Hogle Zoo, The Discovery Gateway Children's Museum, and This is The Place State Park. We have to find a way to make some of these winter months pass! We decided to get one of our passes on Friday, and check out the Zoo for the first time. It was freakin cold, but fun to get ANY time with dad.

Do you see them kissing in the back...I asked them to pose. All creatures bow to me.

Mormon Mommy Blogs

2011-01-19T12:25:00.002-07:00

So, to all of us Mormon Mommy blogger's out there...Yes, you and I...this article is about US. Funny, who knew we had such a fan base? Although I doubt she is reading my blog, cause it is far from portraying a blissful life I think. But really, I think we all have it pretty darn good in comparison to most! So read on all you atheist, feminist stalkers. yes, you can be THIS happy. Invite those young men for some hot chocolate. Check out this article to see what I mean:
http://www.salon.com/life/internet_culture/?story=/mwt/feature/2011/01/15/feminist_obsessed_with_mormon_blogs

Who really likes this month?

2011-01-05T16:50:00.002-07:00

I hate January. In fact Io dread February and March too. They're the months when everyone is sick and its cold outside. In general, I try to be positive, decorating for every holiday that exists during these pitiful months...but its hard when you are stuck in the house with a toddler and yourself who have a severe case of cabin fever...and usually are sick with something. Do ya hear me? Then if you are a germ freak like me, you are afraid to actually go and do something cause your finally NOT sick and then you will go and meet up with friends who are sick...and you are back to where you started. Most of the winter we cant got to church cause of his asthma and other kids getting him sick...I never longed for Spring or summer more.
Wow, aren't I a ray of sunshine? Its just cause I am sick with a horrible sinus infection and have lost my voice (going on 5 days of no voice- impossible to be a mom) and sound like a transvestite. Forgive me for my low point. Happy New Year?

Holiday Gain...

2010-12-15T21:11:00.003-07:00

Neighbor gifts...friend or foe? You tell me, I just polished off a WHOLE loaf of bread. No, not a mini loaf of homemade bread...a regular size. Why do people insist on food? Don't they know people like me have no self control?

Christmas Music Everywhere...

2010-12-10T16:14:00.003-07:00

I was sent this, and thought it was neat. I get so sad sometimes when the word "Christ" is taken out of Christmas and the holidays these days. We have to say things so politically correct, and we cant say "Merry Christmas", and play Christmas music at events...but play "holiday music" that fits everyone's liking, so they wont be offended when the word "Christ" is mentioned at all. Then i saw this video in a MALL, and I just loved it!

Santa's Message to Thomas...

2010-12-08T16:22:00.005-07:00

So, I found this link to have a REAL Santa make a personal message to your child...personal to the age, personality, what kind of year they have had, and the things they want...its super neat...check it out. Tommy as been talking with Santa all day. Its pretty magical.

http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/53vyp95-g22xGknIB6dQYw

All the hustle and Bustle...

2010-12-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

As I sit here in our third bedroom (don’t want to make that sound too glorious…it’s a cubby hole really) which seconds as a home office and a guest bedroom and laundry room and Christmas wrapping center… I realize that I’ve been staring into space for a couple minutes now. Overwhelmed by the exhaustion of the season …Christmas that is. Anyone who knows me knows that I practically poop Christmas elves, I LOVE this time of year so much. However, I also build it up so big each year, I can’t keep up with myself…and Thomas is only TWO! How will I ever keep this pace up over the years? Couldn’t I, we, fuss a little less and enjoy the season a bit more…couldn’t we? SNAP out of it Kate! The thought has often come to me, “Why do we try to always cram it into just ONE month? Why do the Toys for Tots, Salvation Army, Road Home, and all these service projects or acts of service seem double time this time of year?” We give gifts to neighbors and friends to show them we love them and we care… just because it’s that time of year. This month is my favorite because I think we overindulge in every aspect…food, gifts, and generosity. But why only JUST this month? AS the Saviors example, we feel loving and give more this month…but tend to forget later. After December has come and gone, we all seem a little embarrassed or ashamed that we “did so much” or “got a little too cheesy” or “over the top”. We pull back in for eleven more months till December rolls around again. No wonder why we seem so overwhelmed, December IS crazy busy if we leave all of our generosity and serving and fun to one month! Suppose we cut back on some of the things this year…so we had some energy to make a little of Christmas last ALL YEAR LONG? That would really be my idea of heaven, Christmas all year. That means Christmas music the entire time sweetie (Rob)! Maybe I can try to slow it down the rest of the month and remember I can spread this out, and remember to celebrate Him more, who this special holiday is really all about. I’m serious. We can do it. Now, I’m going to get off my soap box, and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa!

To My Veteran on Veterans Day

2010-11-11T11:49:00.003-07:00

Today is Veterans day. Most of us don't really think about today as any big deal...dont feel bad because neither did I for most my life. I think my dad described most of what I felt and what my family felt when Rob suddenly was thrown into war back in 2002 and again in 2004..."You don't really care about the game until you know someone on the team". This suddenly became true for me as a newly engaged girl and then as a new bride. As for all of our loved ones, we were all in shock. Rob, however, regardless of how we felt about the war, was true to his duty 100%. He never backed down, and was completely faithful in both of his deployments. Like so many have before, Rob has served his country faithfully. Im so grateful for him and for his sacrifices... it delayed many things in his life. However, he will tell you it gave him experiences he could have learned in no other way. Today I honor you Rob, and the many others who have served. I'm sorry that we sometimes forget the players on our team.

Our Halloween

2010-11-08T21:45:00.003-07:00

We had a blast this Halloween. We had party after party. Some were documented... some were not. But here is a collage of what WAS documented this Halloween.

First Bike with Pedals

2010-10-28T20:30:00.004-06:00

Tommy has had a bike, but it just scooted...it was by far, and is the coolest bike you will find. Its a European style Radio Flyer no pedal bike that he hauls around on. But we got him this only cause he could reach pedals on most of the kids bikes. So, I was at the DI looking for a fish bowl for our new gold fish ands saw them unpacking this Ketler (a sweet German brand, only sold in high end toy stores) kid bike, and was shocked someone was giving it up. Even more shocked to see the price. $3!!!! I about screamed, and grabbed it! We ran home to let Tommy try it out. Luckily my friend Christine,a photographer, was outside with her camera to capture it best. Now Thomas has two sweet rides. One with and without pedals.

Tommy is Getting too big

2010-10-27T16:49:00.003-06:00

This video is a couple of months old, but it just made me smile because Tommy is so dang cute and smart. He surprises me all the time at how quickly he picks up on things and how independent he is.

Enjoy it now

2010-10-07T09:41:00.003-06:00

Lately, I’ve been trying to appreciate each moment. Robbie and I have discussed that we can’t live our life in the “when…” type of thinking. “When…I’m feeling healthier…we are out of these apartments, out of this year of school, in this residency, when Tommy is potty trained, have more time with each other…” fill in any blank! Really, when any of these things actually come to pass, there will be something else that needs to happen. There will never be enough time, money, or me to go around. So enjoy the now. Regardless of the challenge. Enjoy it now.

I am trying. Really, I am. It seems that as I’m trying, my own health pounds me to the ground and I get the wind knocked out of me. It's hard to seize the day when you feel bitter, alone, and life is unfair at the moment. I had a particular doctor’s appointment I was dreading and I had a priesthood blessing right before. I’m grateful for the amazing support of my husband who gives his all to love and support me. I was calm and collected and grateful for it. Feeling discouraged I said a prayer on the way home in my car to help these feelings leave me. I came home and found this video on a friend’s blog. This was all I needed to put things in PERSPECTIVE. We all have challenges, but there is always someone who has it worse. Someone who can teach us how they are handling their challenges in a Christ like way. How grateful I am for examples to inspire me. It's a little long, but well worth the minutes.

All I have ever wanted, I have. I pleaded with the Lord to give me a righteous man and He DID. I pleaded with the Lord to make me a Mother somehow and He DID! I ask that he make me a better person, more patient, kind, and stronger and he is. I am grateful for all I have. I am blessed to have the family I do, the friends that I do, and the life that I do. I am enjoying it now.

A day of Guns

2010-09-20T07:53:00.004-06:00

For those of you who know me, I'm not so comfortable around the gun/shooting scene. I never was raised around them, and I don't really like them. The first time Rob took me shooting, I cried. I really don't like the idea of having them in my house, or having my kid around them. However, there are compromises you make in marriage, and this is one of them. I'm working on it. We have some good friends from medical school who all wanted to go shooting one day...and I decided to be a good sport. Here is documentation that I was a good sport. And that I suck at shooting.

Our Big Tahoe Trip

2010-09-01T15:02:00.004-06:00

Each year, since I was born, we have gone to Lake Tahoe for the summer. Rob has since been adopted into this tradition with my family. We were only able to go for a little bit this summer, but here is a collage of some of our fun. Sorry its taken me so long to post. I promise I will be better.

My little Brother was filming our entire family photo shoot, and we had no idea. We thought he was checking his facebook as usual. Turns out he was filming. Now you have an inside to a few minutes to my family...Only my cousins and close friends will appreciate this video. I'm sure my sister-in-law loves the fact that my brothers are trying to teach Van the word "douche". You are caught red handed Roy.

Now we are back home, Rob is back in Medical school full force, and we aren't sure where our summer went at all. We do know that we had a great summer. We miss our Daddy now, but he is kickin butt in school. We are proud of him as ever, and are gearing up for another year.

Tampons...a new toy...fun for a girl or a boy!

2010-06-30T14:38:00.006-06:00

Boys...The littlest things fascinate them

Thomas and a Bud

2010-06-24T14:09:00.003-06:00

Thomas loves friends. He is super social...I have no idea where he gets it. He has many friends right where we live outside our door in our courtyard...he loves them all so much. One in particular is our neighbor across the hall Peyton. They like to get into lots of trouble together. Our friend Christine caught them outside our house planning their next move...

Diet Coke...A friend who is always there for me...

2010-06-09T12:53:00.003-06:00

For all who have known me, I rarely am seen with out a Diet coke close by. I blame my mother who breast fed me the stuff...I had no hope. In case anyone is wondering how my Diet coke habit is going...well, I'm not quite hooked up to an I.V. yet, but I am having to buckle my new cup into my front seat to make sure it doesn't spill. This fifty cup keeps my coke cold ALL day...and just so you dont panic, I do fill it mostly with ice, so it really isn't 100 0z of real Diet coke...there is some water in there too. Don't judge me. You know you wish deep down you had a cool mug too.

2010-06-08T08:32:00.003-06:00

It's been a while. Here's a quick update. Rob decided that since he feels like he's going bald, he needs to figure out a way to transplant the hair somewhere else on his body, namely his face (thank goodness it's not growing on his shoulders). I finally convinced him to shave it, so he no longer looks like a scary caveman. I think he's decided that facial hair is not for him. It was fun while it lasted....

A big milestone has been passed this past Friday. Rob finished his first year of Medical School!! He's so excited to spend the summer working doing research (and being published). He'll have pretty much every night and all weekends off so we can spend some quality time together. We had a BBQ at our apartment with some of his best buds from his class to celebrate. He's made some amazing friends and their wives are fun too!

Tommy and I made a couple of signs congratulating Daddy. Then I made some brownies with hot fudge and strawberries for dessert. MMMMmmmmm.

Thomas turns Two!!!

2010-04-22T08:49:00.006-06:00

So, about a week ago, Thomas turned two years old. I’m just now blogging about it, cause I’m about a week late on most things these days.

Most people are resolved to the fact that they are a parent about a month after their child is born. Not me. I still wake up each morning, see this amazing creature running around my apartment and am amazed that he eats, sleeps, poops, talks, laughs…and that I made him. Like people grow plants, gardens, businesses…I grew HIM! The fact that I am the one to teach him all that he must know; right from wrong, good and bad, ugly and cute (ha ha), the fact this little baby is becoming this little man with a huge personality is overwhelming. I remember wanting to punch people who say “it goes by so quick” on the days when I wanted to end it all, in the days of his colic. Now that he is two, he has finally sprouted some hair and he knows most the letters in the alphabet. Where has the time gone?

Rob has always been Thomas’ favorite. I’m not sad about that at all. In fact, I think it is so special. They have a bond that most mothers and babies have. Rob took on the nurturing role the first few months of Thomas' life due to me being so sick and their bond is undeniable. How lucky Thomas is to have a father like him who does all he can to love with all he can? If only Thomas knew how hard we prayed to get him here. If only Thomas knew how much he has been loved in this family the past two years. If only Thomas knew how much I’ve longed to be his Mommy, and am grateful for his patience as I try to figure out how the heck to do that as I feel so incapable to do it. Two years down sweetie…hang in there with me…I’m new at this. I’ve only had two years experience just like you.

Im a good parent...I swear.

2010-04-07T11:33:00.005-06:00

So, on cold snowy days (we got a foot of snow in one day), I feel like a bad parent 'cause my kid is stuck inside our Polly-Pocket-of-an-apartment all day, which just about makes him crazy...and then he drives me crazy. He thinks I'm pretty fun from about 7am-9am, then I'm old news; play-dough, puzzles, cars, tents...all old news. Its the end of winter so this kid is done with all that crap. So, I resort to his constant beckon..."BLUES CLUES!" Don't ask me why my child loves a show that peaked in 1996. We have Netflix on demand, and it happens to be on there, and now...he's obsessed. Its all that he thinks about, talks about, and I assume dreams about. So, yes, I let him watch it way too much on days like this...I confess...I'M A BAD MOM!!! But, I am a good parent, I swear. Here are some pictures to prove it. The day before the storm, it was way windy and we flew 2 kites. Yes two, cause one broke. Then Robbie insisted we try another, better kite...with a 25 foot tail. Was this for Rob, or T? Here is proof I'm a good parent. Is this to make me feel like a better parent, as my child is watching Blues clues right now? YES!!!!

The First Kite...

Broken Kite. Then a New kite...Good save by Daddy.

Easter

2010-04-05T20:56:00.004-06:00

Easter has always been a special holiday in my family. It is fun to start traditions in our own family! This year we were with the Whites, our other home. We had a wonderful dinner, followed by a huge Easter egg hunt for the kids. Thomas loved running around, but didn't like waiting to put the egg in the basket, he wanted to eat them right then. After hunting, he played his favorite game with Caleb, and would scream over and over, "YEAH!!!!". Caleb was such a great sport.

Urine on the Face

2010-03-25T12:34:00.004-06:00

So, we've been trying to potty train Tommy (it's not working) and so his interest in the potty is off the charts. The other night I (Rob) came home from a friend's house with Tommy and had to pee like a race horse. So, I busted into the bathroom and gently swung the door closed behind me, but it didn't latch. Tommy knew exactly what was going on in there, so he threw the door open while I was in full urination mode. The excitement on his face when he saw daddy "going pee-pee like a big boy in the potty" was too much to handle and he lunged forward to get a closer look. Unfortunately for him, I was standing with a wide stance and he tripped over my foot, which catapulted him towards the cammode. Both of his little hands grasped the rim of the toilet, stopping him from falling right in to the toilet. That's not the bad part. His momentum carried his larger-than-average head directly into my urine stream. It all happened so fast that it took a moment for me to realize what had just happened...I just peed on my kid's face. I knew he was in shock because he just stood there, with both hands still grasped tightly to the porcelain, until he finally allowed one hand to wipe the urine from his eye. Kate was in bed by this time and when she heard the tub water running (we'd already given him his nightly bath by this time) she came out to see what was going on; why would I be giving our son another bath??? So, then I had to explain to her that I had just peed all over her son's face. Ohhh, the joys of fatherhood! I can just see him in 10 years, laying on a couch, explaining to a shrink that all of his anxiety and social problems started as a child, when his father peed on his face. Hopefully he's too young to remember it. I hope that's the case, but only time will tell.

These Ruined Everything

2010-03-03T20:55:00.003-07:00

Some say that that Christmas is the worst time of the year on their waist lines...not me. Easter is the worst for me. Easter candy kills me... Mini Cadburry Eggs to be specific. I feel like I kid at fat camp who needs to eat it while he can, and I stuff it in my mouth by the palm fulls. Kate, get a hold of yourself. You were doing so good. You are a strong, confident woman. Wait, whats that? They are 2 for $6 at the store, gotta go.

Family Pictures

2010-02-23T18:06:00.006-07:00

We got new family pictures taken this week by an amazing photographer and friend Christine Olson. It was a quick shoot, cause little did we know, Thomas has a double ear infection at the time and wasn't cooperating with us. But the 15 minutes that we shot were fun...and I am getting over my great fear of getting our family pictures done cause I don't like "how I look 'right now, give me a few more months'". If I keep doing that, we will never have family pictures, we will never have any...wait, that is what has happened. So here they are...Thanks Christine! You are worth every penny!

Is it bedtime yet?

2010-02-04T21:33:00.003-07:00

What would life be like without doing around the clock treatments?

I hope I am not the only mom who wonders some days "Is it bedtime yet"? or "will I ever make it till bedtime"? These thoughts circulate every two minutes on days like today and yesterday when you have a sick little one. T's asthma has been bad...add what we thought was a "cough" to it, it was super duper not fun. I had an inkling things were wrong, and wanted to get it sorted out before we fly home for ten day on Saturday. Good thing. He had a temperature of 103 degrees, double ear infection, and one ear drum that she expects to burst. She also thought he had phenomena and had him do x-rays. I knew he didn't, and insisted that's just how his asthma sounds when its really bad...I was right, but he does have a bacterial infection in his chest that could be making it worse. Pretty sad boy. The DR said we cant leave now till Monday, and still even deicide by how he is feeling. is it me, or is my kid SICK ALL THE F-ING TIME??? Like really sick? With real legit things! I say, "UNCLE" for his sake...and hope for good news from the Pediatric GI specialist on the 22 so ne thing goes his way...and pray we can last yet one more day of cabin fever...what can I do?? ANY ideas of how to keep a sick kid happy inside...beside TV? He's over that.

Iceskating turns to Icehating

2010-01-26T07:38:00.003-07:00

We took Thomas Ice skating for the first time...Why...Still not sure. Everyone else was, so we followed. He thought it was cool at first, then screamed bloody murder. So like good parents, we documented it.

Hide the Dookie...Beware, poop is shown.

2010-01-12T07:47:00.005-07:00

The realities of parenting can be hard some days. Some days while looking at other people's blogs, their children seem perfect and only say cute things, draw pictures of Jesus and the temple, say "I love you", don't hit, eat all the right foods, are potty training, are talking up a storm, and ask to take naps. I look at these blogs and feel overwhelmed that maybe Thomas isn't exactly where he should be some days. I sigh, "Why am I comparing my child? He is as normal as everyone else right???"

My brothers tell stories of a game they played in college called "hide the dookie". It's where you poop (sorry for anyone who has any manners reading this blog...stop now) in a bag, and hide it somewhere in someone else's room. They can smell it, but cant find it. They search and search, only to smell poop.

Last night after getting Thomas undressed for his bath, he broke away from me naked. He ran screaming with glee waiting for me to catch him. We bathed him, got him in his P.J's, but stared to smell poop. We checked his diaper, changed his P.J's, and wondered if he had " had an accident on the carpet". The next 15 minutes Rob and I were on our hands and knees sniffing our carpet, trying to find where this strong poop smell was coming from. We gave up.

A while later I was turning out the lights to go to bed, when I found this...By the trash can. He had to have popped a squat. Thomas played hide the dookie with us. That's normal right???

The Holidays

2010-01-08T07:56:00.010-07:00

After a few weeks of total hell, we made it home to California. I nearly cried when we got in in my parents car on the way home from the airport because it meant that we had "made it". I could finally breathe and had reinforcements in case my "luck" still continued.

Christmas was magical. My house was more gorgeous and decorated than the North Pole and Macey's department store. We couldn't have asked for a better break. We had a great time with family and friends.

Bowling at Danville bowl...with all the grand kids.

Max teaching Tommy how to do the iphone.
We did a 2 hour tour of San Fransisco on Segways...So cool. Here we are with Alcatraz in teh background.
Here I am looking like I am going FAST...or dumb?
Golden gate in the background.

Mt. Diablo Rock City with our friends the Cahoons

Christmas Morning
Christmas Eve and the Red Sweater Vest...In honor of Grampa Drue.

Thomas' first glance at Grandmas house...he was in shockHugs from Mana

The boys making fun of how we tuck our jeans into our boots now...Some of the grand kids and Mana and Popop at the front door
Hope you all have a Great New year....

We've been served

2009-12-15T14:56:00.003-07:00

We just cant seem to catch a break. It seems to be, a least my life long quest, to be plagued with health issues. Sadly, Thomas has started on his journey now...he's been having some, well, bowel issues lets say. I was making excuses for it, like teething, fruits, a bug. But we went to the Dr. finally, and they have been putting us through the ringer. We have had every diagnosis from Rota virus, Giardia, a parasite, and now they think he is allergic to dairy and maybe more. We ave to wait to be tested by a specialist to determine if it is sciliac disease or what? Poor kid, to even get this far in finding out what was wrong we had to go to great lengths to get stool samples...let me just say, saran wrapping your child's butt has to the worst thing you will do in any given week.
Then I did something to my ear tube last week...and my ear filled with puss. The week before finals week for Rob. I got on some meds to clear it up, but immediately started vomiting...launching me into a stomach flu from the bowels of Satan. With my ear drum ready to explode and vomiting uncontrollably, a husband gone, I have never been so low. I hate being the sick on ALL THE TIME. Its the worst, most humiliating feeling. I have no family here, and I feel horrible asking people for favors cause I never feel like I can give them back. I know many people feel this same way. I finally was beyond sick, and asked for help. It is hard to be humbled to ask for help, and amazing to feel the burden lifted by another. Truly, I could not do for myself. I had a friend come an whisk Tommy away, even though she had a holiday party she was in charge of that night, to stay with her family for 2 days. Then Robs brother and his wife, and another sister took Thomas for 2 nights. I was in bed, down and out from Thursday, until today. I had to go to Urgent care and beg to be poked. I haven't had my butt kicked like this in a long time. Today I'm eating toast and able to keep down meds and waiting for my ear to feel better...and waiting to not feel like I'm ready to spew.
This time of year, service and helping is preached, and I know I am always looking where I can help. I am dropping off extra cans off in the bins at the store, or Toys for Tots, or Service projects for church. Sometimes I feel silly that I am looking at all these other places, when the people directly around me are in need of service. It may require more of me than I want to give that day...its easier to serve by dropping off a can than to watch a neighbors child for a few hours while she gets some needed rest of last minute shopping done. When I think about all the people I can serve around me, It makes me wonder who right now was like me, just praying in tears for someone to come knock on their door and ask if they needed anything? I cant tell you how many hours I feel like I prayed in tears to get better to I could take care of my family...this week of all weeks they needed me...my baby is sick and my husband has his first finals in medical school. Nothing came fast, but so many little angels were sent to me. A friend and her husband came to take me to the ER in the worst snow storm, another friend came and rubbed my feet, and other friends brought food to my husband. My husband, is amazing. He was trying, and would have done it all on his own. He was trying to study and watch Thomas all on his own. One night I walked about 1 AM and he was folding a mound of laundry...with flash cards by his side.
This time of year there are so many around us crying out for help, and we don't know it cause they wont ask. Lets pray to be more in tune with the spirit so we can know who needs us...after this week I know I will. I couldn't have survived this week with out the service of others.

Surprise at Baggage Claim

2009-11-24T13:24:00.004-07:00

I was told last week from Robbie that one of his companions from his missions was in a bind and needed a ride from the airport to Provo. I was super confused, and kinda weirded out that I would be waiting and driving with a stranger for a while, who only know what I looked like apparently. Rob said to wait at baggage claim with Tommy and he would know to find me...creepy, I know! So I reluctantly went to the airport, on the way calling my mom telling her how weird "this was", only to have someone come from out of now where and say "HI!!" and it was my MOM!! She was the surprise companion! We came for a few days to rescue me from my day to day mundane life, and give me a break. We shopped till we dropped, saw movies, ate out, and chatted it up! No matter how old we get, we still always can use our moms. I miss her already.

Sunday night, at about bedtime, we looked out side and saw it snowing like crazy. I couldn't resist and had to bundle Thomas up and take him out side to look at it. Here are some cute shots.

Health Care Simplified

2009-11-16T15:04:00.005-07:00

For all those out there that have a hard time understanding where health care is headed, lend an ear to T-Payne. This'll clear things up for you:)

Some updates...

2009-10-20T13:15:00.003-06:00

So heres an update of whats been going on in our hood....

Yes...we have reached a new peak of whitetrashiness...that's my kid who fell asleep with a chicken Mc Nugget in his mouth.

I heard some screaming in the other room...I ran in to find my son in here...the dryer. Where else.
Tommy doesn't seem to sure why all these round orange things are surrounding him in a field.
Robbie went on a epic fly fishing trip with my dad and brothers on the Green River....It was UNREAL I hear.
Robbie also went to hear a band, formed up of all his favorite artists from Toad the Wet sprocket and Nickel creek and then hung out with them back stage...yea, he felt like a rock star. And he got their play list they wrote for the concert and other swag.

I'm trying to be better about blogging...I hate when I fall behind!

What on my mind right now....

2009-09-15T09:23:00.002-06:00

* is it wrong that I can vacuum my entire house without unplugging the cord ONCE??
*I have 3 loads of laundry to fold still
*I combined all colors of colors in my last load...hope it goes well
*It's my Dads birthday, and I don't know how old he is...does that mean I am not his favorite anymore?
*I didn't put deodorant on before I walked this morning...definitely have B.O.
*Am I a bad mom cause I let Tommy pretend to put makeup on when he gets into mine? Will it turn him gay? And if so, am I responsible?
*I should do visiting teaching...but I hate to do it...I call them "visiting creatures".
*Ive decided already I wont make dinner, but I'm ordering pizza. It's 9:35 AM and I'm already too tired to cook dinner.
* My friend Ashley is coming to hang out today. Yea. But she will look cute. So I HAVE to get ready. Bummer.
Whats on your mind RIGHT now?

The Butt Out

2009-08-30T15:58:00.004-06:00

Robs first few days a Medical school have been a bit overwhelming...in fact I believe I told one friend that it is kicking the "crap out of him" and this is going to kick our "butt" (for those of you who REALLY know me, I think I used the A word). Our awesome friends the Quigleys crowned us with this wonderful gift/gag gift/ reminder/ hunting tool/ possible new medical tool?/ new treasure...The BUTT OUT. So just when you think you have got it bad, be glad the Butt out isn't being used on you. Zoom in to get a gander at these instructions. It will make your day...Yes, people actually use this!!

White Coat Ceremony

2009-08-23T18:29:00.004-06:00

Rob and his undergrad friend Pat who got into the U with him...a great study buddy!Another local Beaver Boy, Rhett Smith is in Rob's class...5 years younger than he is, but both representing Beaver Proudly.

Rob had the honor of receiving his physician's coat from the Dean of the School of Medicine on Friday. It was so awesome to see him there with his class of 2013...Wow we have a long ways to go! It is a brand new curriculum this year at the U of U. They have done away with "years" and now call them "phases". This new curriculum is very accelerated, and we know it will be challenging. They told me, the wife, to expect him home 45 minutes a day, and that includes showering and eating time. Wonderful....sniff sniff. But Robbie also knows he is in this to be the best doctor there is, and he knows this will help him do it! He just "met" his 80 year old cadaver last week and already cut her from neck to butt...quite the introduction. He starts doing his clinicals this Thursday, and is anxious to use all his medical gear! We are so proud of you Robbie!

Will someone Update my Blog for me?

2009-08-18T16:18:00.008-06:00

So, I really hate when people dont update their blogs. I get on the internet to check out all the new blog updates, and people DONT have anything new! How lame...like those Stoker's...have they slacked or what??? They have been gone all summer and not bothered to update at all.

Truth is, we haven't been home for more than 4 days consecutively this whole summer. I haven't had enough time to do laundry and repack, let alone blog. Yet, I seem to have the time to peek at everyone elses, and get mad when they don't update??

Our goal this summer...Party hard before med school...MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!I think too accomplished. But we got home just in the nick of time for Rob to start his first day of medical school today! Wahoo!!! I will also be starting my days as a single mother I fear very soon. I'm sure there will be many blogs on that to come.
As for our last 3 weeks....
Northern California.....

LAKE TAHOE...Our annual family trip

Hiking to Emerald Bay...even with the babies

Evening boat cruises

Thomas- the "Boat man"

Great Grandma, "mana" me, and all the Grandkids

The whole family

Tubing around

Playing cards on the beach

Playing in the sand...eating sand

Big Sur

Fat man in a speedo we had to take a picture of

Robbie wishing his days weren't numbered till Med school

Pheipher State beach...where I grew up camping

Monterey

Along the famous "17 mile drive"

SO, what did you do the last 3 weeks? Yea, not as cool as us are you?

Lake Powell

2009-06-22T22:17:00.004-06:00

We just got back from a week at Lake Powell and we both look like lobsters. It was our first time there and we absolutely loved it. The red rock cliffs and the green water were amazing. We stayed on a houseboat and had access to a boat and 2 jet skis. Rob and I both wake-boarded and wake-surfed everyday. We also went cliff jumping. The weather was perfect and so was the food. Every second was amazing. We're so glad we were able to go.

I plead Insanity...

2009-06-10T21:59:00.002-06:00

So sorry we haven't blogged lately...I plead insanity! As we all know, we get caught up in everyday madness...Starting with getting up to a crying baby, skip the workout (that we swore we would do no matter what the night before), feeding, playing, feeding, cleaning, driving, calling, getting Diet cokes (best part), thinking of something good to make for dinner, playing...you get the idea. It is just like all of yours. On top of all of it, Rob and I are in charge of our Youth conference for 3 days. Our dear friend Arianne offered to watch our Tommy boy even though he is sick, but I think that would make me the worst mom ever to leave him for 3 days when he is sick and his asthma is acting up. Knowing our luck he would end up in the ER again...like in San Diego 2 weeks ago on our Vacation...Oh yea, did I mention that vacaction, 6 days, Tommy had 2 ER visits and Rob had 1? Tommy with high fevers and Rob with a STING RAY STING?? Rob is still working off that pain. Ouch!

Recovering from our vacation, getting ready for youth conference, we hope our next vacation (which we leave on the DAY we get home form youth confernece) to lake Powell will offer us some rest and Relaxation. So our next blog will be less hectic, I hope. Cause if I have one more ER visit, I might call it quits.

Thomas First Year Pictures

2009-05-07T06:49:00.002-06:00

What else needs to be said about our little man??

Our little Doctor McDreamy...

Patient Zero

2009-04-29T22:15:00.002-06:00

Tommy and Friend Heather can BOOGIE!!!

2009-04-16T09:44:00.001-06:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Thomas' First Birthday...Down with the Ducky

2009-04-15T19:40:00.006-06:00

RUBBER DUCKY TIME...Yesterday we had Tommy's First birthday party with some friends. It was so fun...except for the weather. We ended up having to have it at the church...bummer. Everything was Rubber Ducky, including his invitation and announcement. We stuck with the theme, since that seems to be the only thing that really excites the kid when he sees one.
We made him a cool shirt to wear all day
He is doing his "sexy" pose here
Rob actually painted this rubber ducky for the "Pin the Beak on the Rubber Ducky". I was so impressed with his skills.
Our "Ducky" punch...with floating duckies
Ducky cupcakes

And Thomas' cake... Yes, I did make this...
I realized later I created a clean freak...he doesn't like to get dirty that much...
Finally I just threw him in it...Then he went for it! I'm waiting for an all blue diaper in the next few days if you catch my drift!

Thomas we are so glad you are our little boy! We love you to pieces and don't know what we would do without you. We hope this next year will be better than your first year...with less crying!

Guy Smiley

2009-04-11T16:08:00.004-06:00

Kate went home to California for the week, so I've been rollin' stag/third-wheel for the past week and the majority of the time has been mind-numbing boring. Luckily her little brother, Collin, keeps me up to date with pictures via our handy-dandy iPhones. Here's a pic of Thomas gut laughing at the dog, Madsen. He thinks dogs are hilarious and he'll laugh for hours as they stroll back and forth. Madsen, on the other hand, does not find it humorous in the least.

Easter Bunny

2009-04-05T20:56:00.004-06:00

Our friend Sarah sent us this card and said it reminded her of Rob...those of you who know Rob know why she said that...We had a bunny visit here too...SOME BUNNY VERY CUTE...I know that was beyond cheesy...I think it happens after I watch the TLC channel and the Duggers are on? Anyways, Thomas wasn't to happy with me making him wear bunny ears...but wont it be cute for his baby book? The things we do to our kids that we will eventually end up paying for in years to come therapy bills...
Thomas has his top tooth in, and his second top tooth is coming in right now...and pretty far from the first. Rob said he will call him "Buck tooth Bertha".

Rob has been accepted to the University of Utah School of Medicine!!

2009-03-20T20:07:00.004-06:00

Looks like we will be Utes for a little longer! We just about fainted. We had ruled it out...our dream school...our top pick...numero uno...but it is also the most competitive. Plus, as of last week, they cut the seats by 20 seats for incoming students. So we were counting on going to Arizona for sure...then today, Rob got a "small" letter in the mail, which in the past was not good news. Then he opened it and it began with, "we are delighted to extend..." WOW! We are freaking out. My dream of having a new house (possible in Arizona) is slashed, but we are in our dream school, close to family and friends. I am so proud of my husband!!! Holy cow. You beat the odds. I never have seen anyone work harder for their dreams. You are so my McDreamy! I will be there cheering you on the whole way! But when can we move from the cinder block? Ha ha!

Cool new Tricks/ Creepy Handless Guitar Players

2009-03-05T17:33:00.003-07:00

So, Thomas is feeling a bit better, and is trying so hard to pull himself "up" onto things. He cant walk at all yet, but he tries really hard pulling himself up on our pant legs, couch, chairs...but cant do it. Never had to worry. Until now...We thought we had to "baby proof" Robs coveted Xbox and DVD player...NOW its the new plasma! What will Rob do?? We heard squeeling and ran in the room to find this evil (yet cute) face looking back. The scarier picture comes second. We didnt realize it till we loaded it on the computer. Check out what is on the TV behind Tommy??? A person with no hand playing the guitar! Good thing he wasnt looking!

Seriously, how creepy is this?
This is just of my SUPER cuter than your baby eating...Sorry, it must be said

Hospitals, Hospitals, Hospitals

2009-02-28T21:41:00.003-07:00

We have spent the majority of the past week in, you guessed it...the HOSPITAL! Thomas was diagnosed with a horrible case of RSV, and a double ear infection. We keep having to go back in cause the poor guy wont eat or drink...and for a "big" little guy, he has been dangerously dehydrated. This week has tested us as parents in every way. As a mother, this week I have cried with my baby more than I care to admit. To top it off, I also showed off some not so great mothering characteristics when we were in the hospital and the nurse accidentally dropped the oxygen machine on Thomas' foot...some words Tommy hasn't heard before (he has heard a lot out of me) flew out of me. Thomas was then treated to see if there were broken bones. I almost went ape, and I would have thrown my own ape poop at that nurse if my kid came out of the Hospital for treatment of a respiratory disease and came out with a cast too...watch out, here comes Mama bear!

Rob has been the most incredible Dad this week! There is no end to what he will do for our son...or me. He is 110% dad and hubbie...what would we do without you? Well, be throwing our poop at nurses I guess?

So far, no trip back to the hospital TODAY...but we almost had to at lunch if he didn't eat...but a lunch of otter pops and dad force feeding him kept us out of the ER for one more day.
Thomas is on his way...the coughing and wheezing is much better. Time is the best medicine I think now. Thanks to all the friends who have been there for us!

Valentines "24" handcuff handouts- ADULT style

2009-02-10T16:33:00.005-07:00

SO, for those of you who don't know, we are obsessed with the show "24". We found some other people in our complex who also are obsessed, and have started a Monday night party at 8 every Monday night, and I usually have some sort of "24" themed food...I thought I would spice this week up...with handcuffs...with plush handcuffs...whatever happened to party bags???HA HA!! They are back in the Stoker home..."24 ADULT" style! I cant wait for the rumors to start in my ward! Note to those who have some "spice" in their lives, these also make fun gifts for close friends! Gets a great laugh (or a big thank you) for a small price! And, you may help a friends love life for Valentines day!

6 AM WORKOUTS- Are you kidding me?

2009-01-28T18:19:00.003-07:00

This is a picture snapped of me today at the gym at 6 am...Just kidding about the picture, but not about the 6 am part. Yes, for 2 weeks now, I have bee going strong at working out in the mornings at the Student gym on campus with my super duper cheap spouse pass with some ladies in my ward. Kill me now! the 6 am is horrible, but not that I wasn't up at that time with Thomas anyways, I just didn't have to be human and in clothing other than my underwear. Thanks to rob helping me with my goal, he now gets up with Thomas so I can make it to the gym...What a sweetie...so he is going to school ( his LAST semester), work, and getting up with the baby....I did pick the best guy ever! I do fee like this lady in the picture though. All my work out clothes...Don't fit anymore. I refuse to by clothes to sweat in and to look cute in at 6 am. At 6 am the only people in the gym are marathon trainers, gross 18 year old scoping out chicks, and the ROTC running. No one to impress really. I do get stares, probably cause I am sweating more than the average person there. Or the fact that they can see how many layers I have under my shirt... I do think it is sad that I am having to wear 3 sports bras. Damn these DD's.

So much for Child Proofing

2009-01-21T09:02:00.004-07:00

We got a new entertainment center recentley. We knew that Thomas would want to play with the stuff inside, so we purposly bought one with doors to keep him out. Within the first few weeks, we learned to go to one side and slam the glass door to the other side and laugh. He does this over and over. So we decided to be smarter than him, and get a peice of wood and place it in the door track to prevent it from moving. At 6 am the next morning, he went over to the entertainment center as usual, ready to slam, saw the new child proofing device, stuck his finger under it and popped it out, and continued to slam the door. To taunt us more, he began to swing it around like at batton as to say, "Is that all you got"?
So much for Child proofing with this kid.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T17:49:00.002-07:00

Our New year was rather quiet...but we made sure Thomas got to celebrate his First New years...before 8 pm.

We hope you all had a Wonderful New year...and we wish you a Wonderful 2009! Good luck on your Resolutions...Rob and I discussed ours last night. Mine is the same as usual...lose weight. But i want to loose At least 40 lbs...so I am some what recognizable to what I used to be. I will do this with the help of Weight Watchers! Rob wants to run at least a half marathon...I said I will be there to support him on the sidelines~ I don't run. It just isn't in the Willardson genes. I did Thomas' goals for him: Be cute, and learn to walk, and say, "I love you Mommy". Simple enough.

Thomas' First Christmas

2008-12-30T12:20:00.002-07:00

All I want for Christmas is ....Paper. That's all he really cared about. So much for spending money on "educational" toys.

We had a Great time in Northern California at my parents home...A different party each night...The Nutcracker, plays, concerts and shopping in San Fransisco. The flu did hit us all, but didn't damper the fun. We hope you all had a Wonderful Christmas!!

Reindeer and Teeth...

2008-12-13T08:14:00.003-07:00

Well, this week we found Thomas' FIRST tooth. I kept trying to fish out a cracker when I realized it was a tooth. So, like any good mother, I forced my way into his mouth screaming to take a photo of it.

He also had his first touch of snow..I took pictures like crazy...only to realized I had the lense on... way to go Kate.

We went to Thanksgiving Point Festival of Lights and drove through with our good friends the Larsen's. Though much of the time was Julie and I trying to figure out which one of our kids smelled like vomit? Tommy saw his first Reindeer, and could have cared less, with his bottom lip shivering.

Tommy and I leave to go home to my parents house for Christmas on Monday, and Rob will follow on Friday after his finals. Cant wait to be at home and see Grandmas house all done up!!

Stoker Thanksgiving & 5 Year Anniversary!

2008-11-30T21:15:00.003-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving to All. Hope you all stuffed yourselves! We spend Thanksgiving with the Stokers each year...this year we actually decided to do some documentation of how many of us there are...Rob's parents in the middle, and all the siblings on chairs with their spouse behind them...the rest are yes...Just all their kids. Always a full house! But tons of fun.

Rob and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary on November 29...5 years...it seems longer, not in a bad way though. Just cant remember a time when my life didn't have Robbie in it. I would like to forget those few years when he was in Iraq and all...but that is what makes us so freaking amazing! That's right baby...we rock! We did it, 5 years...many more to come! Hopefully with many more laughs and smiles than anything else.

Just think 5 years ago, we knew what it was like to sleep in on Saturdays...

Our Little Air freshener

2008-11-04T19:47:00.003-07:00

So, we had some pictures taken of Thomas the other day, and we wanted to get one of his Halloween costume! We don't do the usual costumes at the Stoker home...It was this or a whoopee cushion. he also would have made a good Michilin Tire man with those arms...Go Tommy! I would so hang him in my car...wouldn't you? But I cant promise anything... smells may be a bit different than the real thing.

Pumpkin Carving Time!

2008-10-28T19:08:00.006-06:00

Halloween is almost here...so we let Thomas have at it! I guess I am one of those Mom's who doesn't let Tommy get messy often, cause when he had the chance, HE WENT FOR IT! Here are some pictures of our family home evening.

I snuck this pix in here...it was a few weeks ago when my parents were in town...But Thomas' face was just priceless...Really, he does love his Grandma and Grandpa...I think he was just mad we made him wear a skeleton instead of Superman or something.

2008-10-24T23:16:00.003-06:00

Rob got a call from Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ this afternoon and guess what...HE GOT ACCEPTED! Rob was much more impressed with every aspect of this school than he was to Touro in Vegas...so we've decided (barring an acceptance to a better school) that we're going to Arizona! It's going to be really hot and I'm going to sweat all day, but I think we'll be able to afford a bigger place and I'll be able to decorate it so cute. I think I'll be able to survive as long as I am always in the Air Conditioning! On top of that amazing news, Rob also got word from the University of Utah and he has an interview scheduled for some time around November 10th! So, we're keeping our fingers crossed for that as well. Life is so good and the Lord is blessing us immensly!

Tommy gut laughs

2008-10-19T20:23:00.004-06:00

I KNOW you cant BLOG TWICE in one day...But I never seem to get to have time to do this...so take it or leave it! Thomas got a "early" Christmas present from Grandma and Grandpa and LOVES it. He jumps and plays for a long time...that's why I love it too! Daddy can get him going with his gut laugh, but by the time we grab the video camera, he decides he wants to stop. Luckily, this time I had the cell phone handy to capture this brief moment in time. It's a bad video, thus taken from a cell phone. But you get idea...How cute is this little man???

PS- we have no idea what Robbie is saying to Thomas...

Move that Boogie Body

2008-10-19T19:53:00.003-06:00

We saw this and just died. We thought we needed to share this with all we love. Enjoy. PS- You will have to push pause on our music on our blog to the right to hear this awesome video.

HE'S IN!!!!

2008-09-29T21:02:00.004-06:00

I made this shirt for Thomas to wear on the day Rob took his MCAT. It's Yoda saying, "May the force be with you today daddy." Apparently it worked! Rob got his first acceptance letter to Medical School this past Thursday. He interviewed on Monday and got an email on Thursday giving him the good news. There were over 35 people interviewed and 4 were chosen, including Rob! We're so excited. The school is called Touro University School of Osteopathic Medicine. It's in Henderson (Las Vegas), Nevada, so we're going to be sweating to the oldies in the 130 degree summer heat for 4+ years. Touro is not the top school on Rob's list, by any means, but it's feels so good for us to have our foot in the door anyway. He has another interview in Phoenix, AZ in 2 weeks, so that's also a possibility. Most other schools will most likely contact Rob in the next month or so. So, We're going to MED SCHOOL! You can see the relief in Rob's face. He's so excited to be through the application process, MCAT, etc. So, Rob just has to finish up this hard semester and next semester he has 6 credit hours. Then we're off to our future adventure! Ready or not, here we come!

What I Like

2008-09-23T16:39:00.004-06:00

Hi. I am Thomas. I am 5 Months and 2 Weeks Old now. I run the ship around here, in case you were wondering. Here are some things about me right now:

I can roll over both ways now! Stomach to back, and Back to Stomach!
I talk all the time (I don't know where I get that from?)
When I get excited I do a smokers cough
I like to grab my Dad and Moms face and explore all their holes
I like my binki, but only to put in and out of my mouth like a game
I like toys now...I really like my chicken toy
I laugh ALL THE TIME!
I love my Daddy...When he comes home, I get so excited, my whole body shakes.
I like to pull Moms hair.
I like to try to feed myself.
My Dad thinks I like to watch football with him. I think I just like bright shapes.
I like to be naked whenever possible.

A Fat kid who Hates to eat?

2008-09-17T10:43:00.003-06:00

I know...it's hard to believe that our little bundle of Joy...Ok...little tub of Joy hates to eat. he hates eating his bottle...we've tried every kind...every formula...he's an odd kid! So we tried rice cereal today, mixed with apple sauce...he hated that too. He was way more interested in how to get the spoon from Mommy's hands and into his own. He did succeed eventually, and gagged himself. He didn't learn cause he continued to gag himself over and over. I can tell I am a bad mom cause I giggled...I think I will be one of those mom's who laughs when my kid does something wrong and I am suppose to be so mad, but cant help but laugh out loud! Grow up Kate!
Tommy now likes to try and help hold his bottle, which usually is just a contest to see who can hold it in his mouth the longest before he pulls it out again and laughs. He has a problem eating a lot because he smiles and laughs so much. I find I cant talk to him or smile at home sometimes when I am feeding him or he is a gonner, and into deep gut laughing and thee is no chance of getting any food down him. Rob is the worst. He comes home for lunch and dinner just to see his little man...and the laughs that come from Tommy are unreal! Rob is the best daddy ever. He and Tommy have their time together each night...play, bath and bottle. I love it too cause I get a break!!

Remebering Tahoe

2008-09-06T15:19:00.003-06:00

SPEEDO ALERT: MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR EYES UNDER THE AGE OF 18!

Tommy tried to keep his white skin out of the sun...

Dad just insisted on putting him in a diaper...even though mom had cute trunks for him!

So, we've been home for 2 weeks now, but we never posted about our annual trip to Tahoe with the Willardsons....It was wonderful. I did my best to stay out of most pictures, and we all had fun on the beach and boat. The lake was a bit rough this time around for some reason...but we did take Tommy along for a few rides. We hit Trukee river and did some river rafting a few days too, and did some hiking. It was a blast, and just what we needed to have one last fun trip before schoolo/life starts!

2008-09-01T11:28:00.002-06:00

I just got back from one of the best days of my life (Next to getting married to Kate and having a child). It was unbelievable. I was in the mix of some 108,000 fans, screaming our heads off. It was something I doubt I'll ever experience again. The immensity of the Big House was overwhelming. I was there with some really good friends. Brett Raddon and his dad were there, Jeff Quigley, Kevin Stoker, Kevin Christensen, and Scott Bower too. I sat with Quigs during the game and texted with Brett during the game. There were so many people crammed into the place that it took about 5 minutes for my text to finally send. The craziest thing to see is how fast the 100,000 UM fans quieted when Utah dominated their team. It was erie. There was the time in the 2nd half where they came back and it was incredibly intimidating to hear the level of sound raining down on the team. But, they hung on and got the W. We also went to a Detroit Tigers game and it rocked. It was a beautiful stadium. To get there, we followed some signs that took us straight down the middle of the ghetto. I swear I saw crack whores, drug dealers, and all the buildings had bars on the windows. A lot of the buildings had the glass broken out of the windows and there were some buildings that had been burned to the ground and they were just left there. It was CRAZY! I think I went about 15 minutes without seeing another white person. The trip was well worth it and I can't wait to go to South Bend in 2012 to watch the Utes stomp Notre Dame!

2008-08-13T22:14:00.005-06:00

We've been getting a plethora of motivating calls and comments to update the blog, so here it is. Thomas got to play with his friend from Beaver, Roman, on the 24th of July. It was quite the shin-dig in Beaver this year. Here's a couple more pictures of Tommy. We try to get him to spend a little more time on his tummy because his head is getting flatter than ever. Brett and Jana got us a little Tummy Time Surfboard Mat that he grimaces through a couple times per day. He's not a big fan of holding his giant head off the ground for more than a few seconds...poor little guy. He's going to have a beasty neck one day! Sometimes Thomas cries for no apparent reason, so I just figure he's sad that he doesn't have a neck. Really though, we love this boy sooo much. He's been a cool drink of water during the past few months of stress. Here's a video of Thomas laughing. He'd been laughing for a good 10 minutes before we finally got the video camera out, but he still is hilarious. He loves his little piggy. Kate has started Weight Watchers and has lost her first 5 lbs. She's turning 26 tomorrow...over a quarter century old already! Rob is taking his 3rd and final MCAT on Friday and then we're off to Lake Tahoe for a week before school/work starts for Rob. He's taking his Laptop so he can finish typing up secondary applications to Medical Schools all over the country. He'll be back for the first week of school before heading out to Michigan for the Utah vs. Michigan game at the "Big House." He's so amped about it that sometimes his heart quivers and a tear rolls down his cheek. I don't know why, cause that just sounds crazy! Anyways, it was good to see many of you in Beaver, at the family wedding, or just out and about. Cheers!