Family

Wikipedia gives one definition of family as an exclusive group of people who share a close relationship. In that context, we've been spoiled to see LOTS of family lately.

TEXAS FAMILY -
Swansons and our family were close. We had become the type of friends that have no problem inviting each other over for leftovers, changing each other's chidren's poopy diapers, and consulting about what color to paint every room in the house (and then helping paint it). We spent an entire summer together at Splashtown. Mindy, Hailey, Hunter, & Taylor were able to visit for 2 days. We saw the Seattle sights, laughed at our crazy kids, & even got to have a girl's night out. I didn't realize how much I had missed them until we got to play for a few days and then they disappeared again. TX and WA are TOO FAR AWAY!!
LONG LOST FAMILY-
Unlike the Swansons, who we were used to seeing on almost a daily basis, I had not seen my Aunt Nadean or Uncle Paul for several years. One perk of living in Washington is that now she's only a 2 hour drive away. When my cousin and her family were visiting, Danny, Kaylee, and I made the drive to Harstene Island to see Cindy, Jeff, & Sarah. Though it had been over 6 years since we'd seen each other, we had a wonderful time exploring the beach & catching up. Family is always family no matter how time passes.
BYU FAMILY-
These are a few of my roommates & best buds from college. Many, I also went to high school with so our history is long. Somehow when you share studying for finals, eating on a tight budget, working at the Cannon Center, & staying up too late talking about boys, you grow together. Hooray for facebook and blogs that keep us close even though there are many miles between us. This is a collage of several different visits I've made to UT over the last few years. It's always fun to see Becky, Leslie, Karen, Amy, & Robyn (though she doesn't live in UT anymore . . . and stinkin' Dana is all the way on the East Coast!!) and how our lives are changing. Between us we now have a PhD and 17 kids. Wow. (Sorry for the bad picture Les - and lack of pictures of Becky and her brand new adorable boy!)
RICHLAND FAMILY-
We love having my parents and brother, Aaron, only 3 hours away. We spent a fantastic Memorial Day weekend with them and were able to celebrate Aaron, my dad, and Matt's birthday. We got to attend a Tri-City Fever (indoor football team) game & saw Iron Man 2. Both were quite entertaining. It's so fun having grandparents nearby!
BABY FAMILY-
Cara and I became first time moms only a few months apart. During the last months of my pregnancy with Danny, we walked every morning together with newborn Allison in a stroller. We shared the joys (first smile), scares (mysterious rash), exhaustion (another sleepless night), and excitement (she rolled over!) with each other and consulted on everything from baby food to messy diapers. We started a baby group with some of the other new moms in our ward, and it was the highlight of my week to have lunch & grown up conversation while our babies stared at each other and rolled on the floor. Now our babies are turning 4 and our newer babies are quickly approaching their 1st birthdays. It was so fun to see Cara, Alli, and Lisey while we were in Idaho!


IDAHO FAMILY
Matt's mom got married in the Idaho Falls Temple a few weeks ago. Her and her new husband, Warren Mauger, joked they found each other just in time. The festivities went very well. I gained immense admiration for Warren when a dentist's visit for a toothache led to having a wisdom tooth pulled the day before the wedding. He toughed out the pain and still managed lots of smiles on the wedding day, giving LaRue the reception and day she'd always wanted. It was fun to have all the family together to celebrate.
In addition to the wedding, we got to celebrate Luke, Kaya, and Matt's birthdays. Danny LOVED roasting s'mores for Kaya's birthday and trying to help Uncle Lance use the axe to cut firewood. Why is my son so drawn to danger? He also had so much fun playing with all his cousins and gardening with Grandma Angie. My one regret of our visit to Idaho is I did not get nearly enough pictures!! Next time . . .

Whether genetics, marriage, or friendship link us together, I'm so grateful for all my family!

Committed

Several months ago a friend mentioned that several girls in our ward were beginning to train for the St. George marathon. The conversation went roughly like this.
Me - "Cool! I've always wanted to run a marathon." (True)
Her - "You should do it."
Me - "Yeah, that would be awesome." (Yeah, right)
Her - "Really."
Me - "I'll think about it." (Done thinking . . . probably not this year)

Later the same friend mentioned it again. I gave a few of my excuses - young kids, hard to train, really out of shape, etc. And then the truth. I confessed running a marathon had always been an unachievable goal for me - a distant dream. One of those, "Someday I'd like to . . . " that you say because it sounds cool and perhaps would be cool, but not something you actually imagine doing. Maybe I'm the only one in the world with those type of dreams.

Anyway, I explained I was still thinking about it (true), but was hesitant to commit just yet because then I'd actually have to go through with all of the time, training, and effort. I mentioned all of this to Matt and I was surprised when he immediately jumped on board. He's been running for a while on and off and said, "Well, my body is getting older. My knees are starting to hurt. If I'm going to do a marathon, this better be the year." Before the weekend was through he had signed up for a full marathon and I had signed up for a half.

The training began. Pain at first - but soon my high school running legs returned. No, not my 6 minute miles, but the adrenaline and drive I felt when I used to run cross country and track had returned. The mental challenge of pushing my physical body to its limit and the bliss when I reached a goal. 5 miles to 7 miles to 8.5 miles. The Saturday I ran to Seattle and back (11 miles) across the I-90 bridge was thrilling. Perhaps a little foolish since it was a significant jump in mileage, but I felt great and I get giddy every time we drive across the bridge now knowing that I have run that distance.

Throughout the training, as I've gained endurance and strength, my dream kept popping up. If I'm already running a half, what's 13 more miles? I'm already halfway there, why not finish it? I mentioned this to Matt and he was supportive. We found a marathon in Pocatello, ID scheduled during fair week. We're already in ID . . . might as well run a marathon. In my mind I would run it, but I wasn't ready to commit just yet.

And then I hit a wall. A rut. A slump. After a fantastic 10k fun run (placed 14th out of 50) with family in ID, my training ceased. We were on vacation, Matt was gone, I had both kids, and we were doing tons of driving. A week went by and I didn't get one mile in. Not one. On Saturday I planned to get back into it, but instead I fell asleep watching TV (World Cup Soccer even) and was out for almost 3 hours. Monday I got ready to go and after 1.5 miles had to head home. I was tired and had lost the motivation. Now even the 1/2 marathon in 2 weeks seemed impossible.

Surprisingly, I was not surprised. Though in my life I have always been a high achieving go-getter, it seems that more recently I have been unable to finish much of anything for myself. I have books, recipes, piano pieces, scrapbooks, and projects waiting to be perfected. Like most mothers of young children, the successes are now measured in keeping a shirt clean for two meals, getting through the night clean and dry, and progressing to solid foods. If I can't even get my 11 month old to sleep through the night, who was I kidding about the marathon.

But Coach Matt, my patient husband, didn't give up on me. He insisted on taking care of the kids so I could sleep and arise early for my run. I had my gear laid out, but 5:45 came too early and I rolled back over. He let me sleep, but persisted this afternoon. "If I get home early enough could you go running then?" And again, when he did get home, "Do you want to go for a run?" Fine. You win. I'll go.

It's raining out, but I already have my shoes on. 3/4 mile through the woodsy trail to the community center, 3 miles on the treadmill, and suddenly the motivation is back. I'm sweaty, my muscles are a little sore after a week off, and I have more energy than I've had in 2 weeks. I feel great. Funny how often it takes just doing something to regain motivation for it. 1/2 marathon, here I come.

And then, I step outside and the rainclouds have parted to reveal a huge, perfect rainbow. A bright, full rainbow that couldn't be captured in a lense because it was so big. It was a tender mercy. A cheer saying, "It's OK to dream big and go for it." A reminder that it's OK during this crazy time of being a young mother to do some things for me. Someone saying, "I believe in you. You can do it."

And so despite having a 3 year old and 1 year old who never allow me a full night's sleep, despite having beagles who insist on running with me but then try to trip me when we run, despite having limited time because of Matt's work schedule & church callings . . . I registered for the Pocatello marathon. Thanks to a supportive husband, a rainbow, a great playlist, and a great pair of running shoes . . . I am now committed. 26.2 . . . bring it.

Photo Booth

Mandi got Mindy to put up a photo booth for Luke's Birthday while we were in Idaho. Mindy took some pretty great photos of the Family.

Here we are all with the props:



Here we are without the props:



Finally, here is a great picture of Kaylee. I think it really shows her personality:

Closed on Tuesdays

Kaylee loving an ant puzzle at the PSC

For Christmas my parents got us a membership to the Pacific Science Center , a museum in downtown Seattle that I've been going to since I was a kid. The best part is nothing has drastically changed there since I was 8 years old. Of course there have been updates and additions like the butterfly garden and genetics exhibit, but the shadow wall, outdoor water toys, mole rats, dinosaurs, laser shows, and giant chess sets are still the same. Recently we decided to take a spontaneous trip to the PSC because we have a membership and you can do that. We called up Danny's friend Will and left right after Kaylee's morning nap. AFTER paying for parking I saw the sign. "Science Center closed on Tuesdays." Really!? On Tuesdays? I was shocked and had about 15 yards (from the parking meter to my car) to make a decision.

I unloaded the crew anyway (I had just payed for parking after all) and explained to two disappointed 3-year-olds that we had a change of plans and would not be seeing any dinos. Fortunately, it was a gorgeous sunny day. Fortunately the International Fountain is just a block away. Fortunately, we had a picnic lunch packed. Fortunately, for some unknown reason, there were dozens of giant balls and hundreds of hula hoops scattered around the fountain. Fortunately, 2 hours later when we returned to the van, the boys were chattering about how it was the funnest day ever. I'm pretty sure Kaylee enjoyed herself too.
Who needs dinosaurs and mole rats anyway.

Building a Fortress

So it turns out I sort of like having a little boy.

Mischief

Cute . . .
. . .but messy!

On a positive note, we're pleased that Kaylee has taken such
an active role in our recycling efforts. She attempts to sort it
on a daily basis. Thanks for the help cutie!

Misconception

I was totally wrong. Who knew mini-vans were so hip.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ql-N3F1FhW4

It was time.

Last year when we were looking at cars after Matt's 96 Toyota Corolla died, we considered buying a mini-van. Instead, we opted for a Volkswagen GTI to help make Matt's miserable commute a little more tolerable. We knew we would want a mini-van in the next few years, but didn't realize how soon. Our move to Washington has decreased the amount of air travel we've been doing, but has significantly increased our car travel (except, ironically, for Matt who now enjoys a mere 10 minute commute each way in his luxurious GTI).

Over Easter weekend, we decided to take the beagles with us to Richland. The Honda Accord had been fine for previous drives to Idaho and Richland, but this was our first trip with two kids, two dogs, and two adults. On the way there, Daisy and Dozer spent the entire 3 hour drive on my lap in the front seat. Beagles are not meant to be lap dogs . . . especially not in pairs. For the return trip, I opted to give up my seat to the dogs and squish between the car seats in the back. Despite hours of meticulous vacuuming, dog hair still stuck to our black fabric seats.

And so, with many road trips planned for this summer already, it was time. Though we shopped and made decisions together, Matt surprised me by finalizing the trade in for a van while I was away in Richland for a few days (Without the dogs. I can only handle so much car vacuuming in a month). As Matt put it, "I don't feel old because we own a mini-van. I feel old because we're so excited about owning it." And we definitely are. I LOVE our new Slate Green Odyssey.

We gave it (still working on a name . . . any suggestions?) its first real test drive on Mother's Day. After a luxurious afternoon nap, we loaded up the family and a picnic dinner. Look at all that space!! Room for everyone.



We drove north to Camano Island and enjoyed a quiet picnic on the rocky beach. It was so peaceful to walk along the deserted beach hand in hand with those I love. Nothing says Happy Mother's Day like a baby trying to eat sand instead of sandwiches and a little boy squealing with excitement about every piece of driftwood or shell he can add to his collection.

How humbling to look around at all of God's incredible creations - the mountains, sea, forests - and then at two of his most precious - Danny, Kaylee. He has entrusted me to help Him with those two little ones. Wow.
Hope everyone else out there had a wonderful Mother's Day as well. Happy driving.

Hiking

Waterfall trickling,
Quiet granola bar break,
Surrounded by green.

Getaway

A few weeks ago my friend Kristen had the brilliant idea of taking a day trip somewhere. Though no two days are ever quite the same when you're a mom, there's still monotony in the daily dressing, feeding, and cleaning that goes on. We agreed a getaway was just what we needed, so we loaded up the kids and drove to Leavenworth for the day. It was about as perfect as a day can get for Danny.

He had a best buddy, dagger, and nonstop movies on the two hour drive.

There were tons of fun shops with interesting things to look at like "cowboy" hats, rifles,

electric guitars. . . oh wait. Just another gun.
a Medusa hat, and a scuba hat which Danny insisted was a "knight" hat.We ate a perfect lunch of bratwurst and lemonade supplemented by goldfish crackers, fruit snacks, pretzels, ice cream, grapes, carrot sticks, and a gumball that was bigger than Danny's mouth. Life doesn't get much better for a 3-year-old.
And then, to top off Danny's perfect day we went to Smallwood Farm to run around, pet the animals, and play.He even got to try out a real lasso. What a great day for Danny!

Kaylee couldn't have been better herself. She napped and ate when we needed her to and she didn't fuss at all until we were almost home. Most of the day she was nothing but smiles.

As for me, I returned home feeling rejuvinated. There's nothing like a getaway with good food, good conversation, and a good friend to help you re-energize. Thanks for a fantastic trip Hamburger Head (aka Kristen).


If you could go anywhere for a day, where would you go?

Bottle of Laughter

I've always wished I could bottle up this perfect sound. Then I could carry it around in my pocket and anytime I was feeling blue I would just open it up and listen to this contagious laughter. It brings a smile to my face every time I hear it. What sound or image does the same for you?

Orange and Pink

Missing All Y'all

A few weekends ago we were able to take a quick trip to Houston using unused plane tickets from Christmas. It was wonderful to see friends and family that we've missed TONS! We had fun playing games, eating out, shopping, and making a day trip out to the countryside to enjoy the Blue Bonnets. Here are a few lists and pictures to summarize.

Top 5 things we have not missed since moving:
1. Long, long, long commute
2. 90% humidity . . . almost every day
3. Living in a gated community with gates that don't work and massive speed bumps
4. Hurricanes
5. Fire Ants

Top 5 things I didn't know I would miss, but really have:
1. Flip flops and capris every day (It's April and I'm still wearing sweaters here!!)
2. Chic-Fil-A, Kohl's, Wal-Mart, & Ross only 2 minutes away (Thanks for some fun shopping trips Anne & Mindy)
3. Having 6 good friends in the neighborhood who could lend you an egg or an onion so you don't have to load up the kids and drive 10 minutes to Albertsons.
4. Huge, bright, sunny skies

5. Texas Pride (I have yet to hear the Washington State Pledge or even see a Washington State flag . . . Nor have I heard Deep in the Heart of Washington on the radio. Where's the love??)

Top 5 things I knew I'd miss and still do:
1. Spring Ward Family - Love you guys tons!
2. Having my sister practically next door.

3. Cousins .

4. Best Friends
5. Blue Bell Ice Cream

We sure do miss all y'all!