Amy's Awesome Life

Nick Jonas and the Administration

2010-06-02T10:20:00.000-07:00

It is no secret, Elizabeth LOVES Nick Jonas. And it is no secret I LOVE L.A. and the Jonas Brothers. So when Nick ventured out on his solo tour, Liz and I waited for him to come to Vegas. He didn't. About November, Liz was talking about what she wanted for Christmas and she wasn't really asking for anything special. Liz is an amazing young woman, aside from a little attitude here and there. She is a great kid. I wanted to do something special. When I got the text that more L.A. dates had been added, I swung into action. For Chirstmas, mom and KC, Lane and I gave Elizabeth a trip to LA to see Nick Jonas and the Administration. This was no small feet. Many hoops had to be jumped through and stars had to align just right for this to happen.
I will never forget Christmas Morning. I made Elizabeth a little story book put into a photo album. It told her story. At the end, where the tickets. She cried. It was amazing. And we were excited.
So January 27th, My mom, Liz and I set out on our first Road Trip. This was the first time I had EVER driven out of town on my own. (sad i know.) Since our car had been totalled earlier in the month, we had a beautiful rental car and we were off. Our plan was to head down, stay on base in Malibu, go to the show and hang out Wednesday and head back home. Everything was planned, tickets printed, room booked... we were set... Well. We made it to Malibu and found that we could not stay on base because Liz and I don't have Military ID... We do it all the time in San Diego and Coronado. So we were hotel-less... So we headed back into LA. We decided to hit Starbucks for a pick me up and wi fi to book our hotel room. While we stopped, I decided to have Lizzie grabbed the tickets to see what time the show started. The show started the night before. Yep, that's right, no room and our tickets were for last nights show and we are in Malibu, not LA and it is like 3:30 pm. At that point, it was pointless to book the room because if we weren't going to the show, I was headed home... In California, you can't talk on the phone and drive so Liz had to call her Grandfather for me. I told her, "without crying, I need you to call Grandpa and have check to see if there are still tickets available and book our room." That's right, I had a back up room already picked out. Tickets were still available so we high tailed it to Hollywood from Malibu in the starting of rush hour traffic to see if we could get seats. I made it, there were people already lined up to get into the show. I walked up to the ticket booth and asked for any seats, just 2, they didn't even have to be together. The response was, "Ah, honey, don't worry, I'm totally going to take care of you." At that point, I went into my story, we're from Vegas, tickets were for last night, hotel didn't work out...blah.blah.blah. Again he repeated, "Don't worry sweetie, I am totally hooking you up." (I love LA and "LA men" if you know what I mean.) I never even looked at the tickets, I gave him half the price I spent on the tickets when I originally bought them, thanked him profusely and went back to the car. Let Liz know we got our tickets and we went to our hotel just a block away to get ready.
Our room was great, just a block from the Wiltern, had a great pizza joint accross the street and everything was good. We walked to the show, got our t shirt, and I found an usher to ask for directions. I explained I was pretty sure our seats were in the balcony area and asked for directions to get up there. She giggled and said, "let me show you to your seats." Our seats were 5 rows from the stage. I would definatly say that guy hooked me up. I noticed on the seats they were the "House Comps" so the guy pocketed the money for the seats but who cares...
Liz was totally able to make eye contact with Nick Jonas. It was so Wonderful... We had so much fun... The night could not have been better.

Concerts with Liz

2010-05-26T21:17:00.000-07:00

I spent the summer of 09 going to concerts with Lizzie. I love her music as much as she does. Sometimes I think I like the Jonas Brothers more. I have listened to them longer. But the summer started out with Demi Lovato and David Archuleta. It was awesome. We had amazing floor seats. Lizzie sang her heart out. She loves Demi, and Demi can sing... She did a rendition of "Natural Woman" that was phenomial.
In August we went to the concert I was looking forward to, JONAS BROTHERS. This one was also AMAZING. We stood in line forever to get in, but they are totally worth it. Liz and I had so much fun, singing and dancing...

what a year.

2010-05-26T21:12:00.001-07:00

So it has been almost a full year since my last post. I can honestly say last summer was one of the hardest and emotionally challanging in my life. It was about this time last year, I got a phone call that would change my family forever. The path to forgiveness was shown. I am happy to say all is well with that situation. In fact better than ever expected. I could never have gotten through it with out my wonderful Visiting Teacher, Val. I didn't understand why she had been chosen for me, but after one afternoon it was all clear. So slowly I will start updating the blog. I have had a wonderful year...lots to talk about.

Forgiveness

2009-06-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

At what point should a person decide to let go. It is not a secret I have had an extremely difficult year. From family issues to fighting the schools for Owen. I am severely struggling physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. For the most part, I keep it in. That is the way I have dealt with my emotions throughout my life. Hold them in until something sets me off and then lose it. I have been able to not lose it more and more, but the toll it is taking on me I am afraid may be irreversible.
A couple of years ago, I was in a confrontation with someone and words were spoken that have devastated me. Although I apologized for my wrong doing in the situation sincerely, the statements that were made to me have haunted me and I am still plagued with the feelings of unkindness and hatred every time I must see the person who spoke them. I should let go, but I can’t or maybe it is I won’t. These were some of the most unkind, hateful words ever to be spoken to me and no responsibility of wrong doing has ever come of the altercation other than from me. This situation still adds stress to my life and marriage often. Again, this was years ago and I still have the horrible feelings that I cannot leave behind me.
More recently, I have had to and am still dealing with struggles with my own parents. After decades of dealing with the same problems over and over only escalated grander, when is enough enough to walk away and not look back? I wonder each day how my life would be if I did just that. To what extent would my life have to change for me to be able to make the commitment to let go. How would my life better by doing just that? If I do walk away and the terrible inevitable fates are met, how much of that is my responsibility? Can I make a difference? After 30 years, I have not been able to is something in the future or the present going to change to where I can make the difference and make it all better? Or do I focus on my husband, my children and forget about the rest.
It is time for me to move on, to be the bigger person so to speak. I know that forgiveness is the key to salvation yet it is at times to hard to give. Is forgiveness really needed when the person you are forgiving still does not feel they have trespassed?

2009-06-24T19:07:00.000-07:00

So something has happened. I am not really sure when but it has been pretty recent. Lizzie has turned into a very responsible young lady. A few weeks ago when Lane and I went to California, Elizabeth totally step up and helped with the boys. And she did so without attitude. And even more, she has started watching them here and there when I am working. I have to laugh because she is amazing with Owen and Camden. She totally entertains them, makes them lunch, everything. Today she even did laundry.
I have known I have a good girl, but I am so pleased to see her turning into such a wonderful young lady. (Beautiful too.)

Fathers Day 2009

2009-06-21T21:24:00.000-07:00

Just a preface: this might not be the normal upbeat, rah rah post I usually write.
So for Father's Day, I decided I would make Lane breakfast in bed. He has been on vacation this week, so I wasn't able to really have anything major done or planned for him. It was simple but yummy. Waffles with blackberry jam, homemade whipped cream and fresh blackberries and a bacon and cheese omelet. It was great to watch Camden who had to have his waffle exactly like Daddy's. It was the beginning of a wonderful day. That is when I did it, I ruined my day that could have been so wonderful.
I have been debating what to do about my family situation for a while. I bought my father a card and was planning on making a cute little cupcake with grass and a lawn mower on it to take to him after church. Expectation way too high !!! I called him about 9 am thinking I would be able to catch him before he and his family went out...The phone was answered by my cheerful step mother who was as always very polite. But much to both of our shock, my father was not up to talking on the phone. What a joke. Really, a simple "happy fathers day. how's it going" was all I had planned. Especially after the last time I talked to him.
I just don't get it. Any of it. I don't understand how a father can treat his children and grandchildren this way. And I don't understand why I continue to let us be treated like this in the hopes that one day he will open his eyes and see what he is missing out on. Or maybe I should just understand this is the life I was given and I can't change it, I just have to focus on the positive I have in my life like my husband. Knowing how screwed up my childhood was, I am thankful everyday for the wonderful husband I have. He is honestly the most amazing husband and father I know. I know I have defied all odds to have the relationship I have with him and I shouldn't let the other bother me. But it still hurts, even after 29+ years.

Together again

2009-05-31T20:45:00.000-07:00

I am still amazed at the idea that I love to spend time with my husband. We have been married for 13 years and I will still jump at any chance I have to spend time alone together. Tuesday afternoon I got a phone call from him saying he needed to go on a business trip to California leaving Wednesday afternoon. Immediately I swang into action. Got the ride home from school for Elizabeth, mom to come and stay with the kids and backup plans for all of it.
He still has to work, but it is so nice to just be in the car talking to him about everything and nothing. And this trip, boy were we in the car. Yet I loved every minute of it. It's pathetic, I know, but I am still completely in love.

BTW - if you are ever near Encintas, CA and in need of a GREAT burger, go to Angelo's it's on Pacific Coast Highway and it is AMAZING...Best fries around.

Three Day Weekend !!

2009-05-24T22:52:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to have a three day weekend. It is even better since Lane is actually home for it. Saturday we spent the day "Spring Cleaning." I admit, I have a 2 cupboards that accumulate junk. Papers and stuff get put in them and then forgotten. I am happy to say, they are now cleaned out and one has turned into a craft cupboard and the other one is still the "I don't know where to put it, but I think I need it" place. Maybe since it is clean and organized, Lane will put his things there instead of on top of the refrigerator. (big pet peeve) The boys cleaned there room and I was able to get rid of quite a few toys. We do still have a ton of action figures and cars. But they are organized not and the boys can play away with them.
After our cleaning session, we went to see Night at the Museum 2. Still can't decide if I liked it. Loved the cupids...If you know who they are you will totally know why. I have to laugh, Camden was so excited to go but as soon as the theater went dark he was ready to go home. He did settle in and watch the whole thing and laugh. So many movies I want to see this summer. I can't wait.
When I got home from the movie, I had a message from Owen's Primary teacher, my good friend, who had a couple things come up and wasn't going to make it to Church today and asked if Lane and I could take her class. No big we do it with no problems. Not to mention, three day weekend, not many families will be there. Well then, at 10:30, my other good friend texted me and her sub backed out last minute, she was camping. So we were taking their class too. Which I totally would do, I love Annilee and Cole so Lane and I would do anything to help them. I was totally nervous though. We normally have about 10 active members of our class, Annilee has about that if not more, and poor Kristen has 4 total... I bearly slept last night going over how we were going to entertain that many kids. Well, we got into Primary today and there was a total of SEVEN kids in Jr Primary. That's right, SEVEN. Needless to say we had an amazing class. As the kids colored their handouts, they were humming Primary songs. How cute is that?
And tonight, Lane's best friend from Arizona had to come to town. I haven't seen him in forever. I was so happy he came for dinner. He has turned into such a great guy. It was great to see him and listen to he and Lane talk and watch him with the kids. And just after I got my pj's on, Lane's phone rang again and one of his old mission compainions is on Holiday from England and came to visit. I love to listen to the British speak, it is so beautiful. They use such great adjectives. I should say it is lovely to speak to them.
Tomorrow we have another great day planned, a morning bike ride, more cleaning and an afternoon BBQ with the Barlow's. I hope you all had a great weekend too.

Mother's Day Projects

2009-05-10T21:30:00.000-07:00

This year I was creative with my Mother's Day Gifts. I have learned through life if I am thoughtful in giving a gift, I am usually happy with the result. I found a cute little flower made out of a childs hand on an apron. It was darling. I am still not the sewing novice I would like to be so I thought I would just paint the kids hands on canvas. It turned out so well. I thought it was great. I will have to make one for myself too.
On a side note. Without speaking to one another, Owen's class aide, Mrs. Donya did the same thing for Mother's Day for with the students in his class. She is one amazing woman and mom.

Cam does R Patz

2009-05-02T19:23:00.000-07:00

When I took Camden shopping for his friends birthday gift, he decided to go incognito. He found a stocking cap in the bottom of the bat bag and put it on. It was priceless Cam.

Camden's First Birthday Party

2009-05-02T19:02:00.000-07:00

Last week, I went to the mailbox and Camden had an invitation to his first "REAL" birthday party. I showed him the cute little Minnie Mouse card and told him it was for his friend Taylor from Nursery at Church. With his little crooked smile he said, "I wanna go mom. Can I go? He was so genuinely excited...He loves his friends from Nursery.

After baseball practice I took just Cam to pick out Taylor's present. I asked him before what he wanted to get her and he told me a "boy toy." But when we got to Target he changed his mind. We walked in and I asked again and ever so sweetly he said, "a dress I want to get her a dress." I tried to persuade him to the toys but he was set on a dress. We walked through the little girls clothing and he found the cutest little white top. It looked kinda boho, but he loved it. That was what he wanted to get her. He even found the size he thought would fit...He knows what size he wears so he assumes everyone his age should wear it too. Amazingly, he found a darling pink scooter skirt to go with it. I must admit, he did a great job, it was very impressive.

So today was the big day. After his baseball game he took a bath and got all ready for his party. It was just up the hill so we walked to the party. Just he and I. I was a little nervous, it is not exactly an easy walk out of our neighborhood. It is a pretty steep hill. He didn't even miss a step. He looked at the flowers and the rocks and asked tons of questions as we walked hand and hand to the park. You could not have asked for a more beautiful day. It is an experience I will cherish, and he will not even think twice about.

The party was so much fun. Taylor's family is so great. And all of the 3 year olds from nursery were there. Since we moved into the ward, Cam has talked about Ben. It was so much fun watching the two of them play. They totally carried on conversations as they played. They all played so cute together and had so much fun. As did I. What an experience. Great friends, great food (really good cake) and tons of fun. Is there a better way to spend a Saturday?

Field Trip to the Casino

2009-04-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, I got a note from the school saying the First grade would be going on a field trip to the Rain Forest Cafe. I couldn't help to question how this could be educational. Yesterday I found out why. I was amazed at how wonderfully educational and entertaining this field trip was. Wednesday night it did hit me that Hayden had never been into a casino before, but to my shock, he still has never really been in one. We entered from a side entrance right by the restaurant and exited the same way. There were no slot machines or any other signs of a casino near. The kids had a blast. Our tour guide was awesome. He answered any and all questions the kids had...and the adult questions too. After about a 45 minute lecture/lesson on the rain forest we were treated to an unbelievable lunch. So much fun.

Everything is better in a Fort

2009-03-31T20:11:00.000-07:00

Monday Camden, Owen and I made a huge fort in the living room. We had such a great time playing in it. Even better, we had a special surprise when a friend dropped by Great Harvest bread and jam. (Thanks Kristen) It was still warm and so yummy. So we got to have a wonderful snack in our fort. I have so much fun playing with the boys. I have made the decision that I am going to enjoy my children more and play...not just run around cleaning up after them. The house looks the same at the end of the day anyways...

Super Star Mystery Bash

2009-03-30T19:54:00.000-07:00

As I was told by one attendee... "Lizzie's party last year was so awesome. So what are we doing this year, how are you going to top last year? How?" Thank you for the pressure Miss Messina. I think I topped it. I honestly think the girls had a wonderful time. I sure did.
This year for Lizzie's party, we opted for a Mystery Party. I have always wanted to host one of these and since I do feel the pressure of needing to one up last year, I decided this might be the way. We had so much fun. I made sure that all of the characters matched the personalities or likes of the girls. And each girl optimized their character. As did I Host/Detective Sun Dried Tomato. I said last year the Lizzie's friends are just amazing and again they were this year. The all seem to have so much fun together, and are so sweet to one another. She is one very lucky little lady.
I am sorry for the no picture thing, I lost my camera Saturday night, just to find it on Sunday morning when I wasn't looking.

Week Recap

2009-03-26T10:54:00.001-07:00

Sunday - Big blowout at Aaron's Birthday Party.
Monday - The aftermath of the blowout at Aaron's party, Khloe cried all day long.
Tuesday - Still dealing with crap from Sunday, had a withdrawal from my account that was supposed to have been cancelled, got totally taken advantage of by someone, and Khloe cried all day. Forgot the extra glove for baseball practice, was late, had the equipment in the back of the burb and so Lane yelled at me. (Made an amazing dinner)
Wednesday - Lizzie's Bday. Got the house picked up. Thought the day was going well, facebooked about the day before to a friend thinking only she could see it and it posted to the public. Heather nicely figured out how to get it down. Khloe cried all morning, but cheered up after her nap. Got a little boy who doesn't want to leave mom's side to finally get ready for school, dropped him off thought to go get a pick me up at Saxby's, looked saw Camden was unbuckled, stopped buckled him in and the proceeded through a one way in the parking lot and got hit. Liz to dance, finished birthday cake. Don't think Liz liked her presents... Crashed depressed on the couch snuggling with husband.
TODAY- Got up made lunches for Lizzie, Lane and Hayden. Breakfast for Camden. Showered, came downstairs to see Camden had eaten Hayden's lunch... Made a second lunch for Hayden. Special Sunshine pancakes for Owen. Phone's out, Internet is on the blink... Got Jonas Brothers tickets... two days before the general public, and they kinda suck, but we got them... and it is only 11 am -
This week has got to get better.

12

2009-03-26T10:41:00.000-07:00

My Lizzie turned twelve yesterday. It is so hard to think she is that old. She is beautiful and sweet and sassy. She reminds me a lot of my sister when she was a kid only Carey was a clean freak and Liz takes after me in this aspect. She is still as stubborn as the day we had her. It is crazy to think of all the problems and the NICU stay and how she has grown with no signs of any problems.

Lizzie is smart, sometimes too smart. She learned very early in school to do just what she needed to do to get her "A" and that is all she does. I have tried to explain how important taking the extra steps to do her best are, I think she is starting to understand that. Lizzie is strong. She knows right from wrong and as far as I know is staying on the right path.

Lizzie loves to dance and sing. She would like to try the whole acting thing but I am too scared to let her. (look at Miley Cyrus and Britney Spears) She keeps asking so who knows if I will give in. She is so tall and beautiful. She has been approached so many times, we just haven't done it.

Lizzie is amazing. She will do what you ask. She will complain alot right now but she is beginning to understand the true meaning of a family and the importance of a strong one.

We love our Lizzie. Happy Birthday.

Retrospection

2009-03-22T22:47:00.000-07:00

Those who know me well, know I had a pretty messed up childhood. My brother, sister and I were extremely close while growing up and are lucky enough to have continued to have a great relationship to this day. I hope my children will have the same bond that the three of us have... Only I don't want them to have to (nor do I think they will) bond under the same circumstances.
Just recently, I had really thought I had come to grips with my childhood. I understand a little more about myself and why I have some of the feelings I do. As well I understand why I acted in ways that I did. Tonight I found myself back feeling as if I were the six year old who couldn't fix it all. The feelings of helplessness and desperation are so overwhelming and hurtful. I don't know if I am as over my childhood as I thought I was. I do know that tonight made me want to be the best mother and wife I can be so my children will never have to feel the pain I do.

The Next Stage Continues to Roll On

2009-03-20T20:43:00.000-07:00

It hit a few months back that Lane and I were onto a new stage in our lives. Our kids are growing up which is allowing us to create a new lifestyle. This was evident last month when I went on an amazing overnight business trip to Southern California with him. (can't wait to go again.) Last week Cammers turned 3. Today we signed him up for T ball.
It is official, we have no more babies in this family. Pictures will be posted soon.

My Baby is 3

2009-03-18T21:39:00.001-07:00

I can't believe my baby is 3. Camden turned 3 on Monday. He is the funniest child on the planet. He has never been a "baby." I would imagine that is because he has two older brothers he has to keep up with. Camers has no fear... he will try anything. climb up or jump off what ever is around. The past few weeks Camden has been a do it himself kinda guy. He will get his own water, his own snacks and he dresses himself regularly. Which often means his shoes are on the wrong feet.
Camden loves to be read to. Our family has been reading the Captain Underpants Series. Camden sits with us and is completely attentive to the story. He also loves to read to you. After you read him a book, he will then "read" it to you. He loves his hot dogs and his favorite color right now is Yellow, which really suits his happy personality. Camden can play with his cars for hours. I love to listen to his cars talk to one another. His favorite movies are Cars and HSM... He loves to sing the HSM songs with Lizzie.
Don't get me wrong, he is not perfect. He is very strong and will punch your lights out to get what he wants if he feels he needs to. He is stubborn as all heck. Which is probably why he beat such great odds to be born. I can't say just how much I love this little guy. He warms my heart with his twinkling eyes and crooked smile. And it melts when he tells me "yous my best friend" or "I's luz you." I luz him too.

Owen's Pirate Party

2009-03-17T18:10:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Happy Birthday to Owen

2009-03-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

Today my little guy turns 5. What a big year he has had. I am excited to say he has not been poked, prodded or tested since last May! Since working with his two speech therapists, he is making remarkable progress. He now talks all the time. He speaks in whole sentences now. Yes, he does speak Owenese or Yoda speak... His sentence structure isn't always right but you can usually get his drift.
Owen is still in the Early Childhood Class with Mrs. Pez (Perez) at Wolff. He has great friends in his class as well as some real cuties from church. He is still in love with Paige, but he loves to argue with another little girl from primary. Owen loves his new primary teacher Sister Truman and he is so lucky to have someone who loves him as much as she does.
Owen is very into his Star Wars. He plays it on Wii and with his action figures. About a month ago I found a great Star Wars shirt and got it for him and he now wears it all the time. Last week he wore it 3 days in a row, this week we are already on day two. He is so cute, he hangs it up every night so he can wear it again, so I sneak in and wash it and rehang it up. Today his school speech therapist mentioned to his teacher that he wore the outfit yesterday too, she nicely explained that it's his favorite.
He loves the Captain Underpants Series. We read them as a family and he absolutely loves to sit and listen and laugh at all the little boy potty humor. He is extremely smart. Kinda off he is so smart. He knows all his letters and sounds and is starting to put them together to read.
Owen loves to ride his bike and play baseball. He starts a new season of "coach pitch" in a week. Hopefully we will have the same great team as we have for a while. He loves "Troy" from High School Musical but if you ask him who he looks like he'll tell you Nick Jonas.
We have been so blessed to have him in our lives. He is so special. Our old primary chorister used to love to watch him because he sits and takes it all in. He is wise beyond his years and is an amazing little man. I can't wait to see what the future brings for him. Nothing will hold him back, he will accomplish anything he puts his mind to.

Another Year Older

2009-03-07T19:25:00.000-08:00

As another birthday has come and gone, I have contemplated what life lessons I have learned in my 33rd year. The lesson that keeps coming to mind is home is where your heart should be centered.
We have been through so much this past year both good and bad but through it all, our family is becoming stronger and stronger. I strive on building a haven for my children. I want my home to be a place of refuge from the world. It may be cluttered, disorganized and loud at times, but it is the place where we live, laugh and love. I feel so blessed to be at home with my beautiful little children. I am blessed to have a part time job to pick up when I need also. I try to not take for granted the wonderful time I get to spend with each of them and am always trying to think of new creative things to do to strengthen our bond.
The other main lesson I have learned this year is how lucky I am to have Lane as my husband. I am so lucky to have the relationship I have with him. I am amazed to think it has been almost 13 years of marriage. I am so lucky to have a man who loves me for the imperfect person that I am. And I love him for the silly man that he is. I had the epiphany in November just how absolutely lucky I am. It was then that I rethought my relationship and re devoted myself to his happiness, and my own.
Overall it has been a wonderful and eye opening year. I just wonder what will happen between now and 35.(argh)

New Number

2009-03-04T10:22:00.000-08:00

In our quest to rid ourselves of Cox Communications, Lane and I have changed phone services (and are going to save a bundle) Our new number is 702-609-9596
Thanks all.

Back to Me

2009-02-22T21:44:00.000-08:00

I don't know when it happened, but sometime in the past 6 years, I have becomed an overstressed, over scheduled mother of 4. Lane has often said that I don't take time to myself and that is true. Case in point, in November, one of my best friends got me a gift certificate for a mani - pedi, instead of just giving it to me, she told me to be ready at a certain time not telling me what we were doing or where we were going. She picked me up and took me. Her reasoning was if she would have just given it to me, I would never have gone. And if she told me what we were doing, I would have made some excuse on why I couldn't come. They are completely right. No, this is not a "oh poor me post." That is my life, the life I have chosen. Most of the time I am a very happy busy mother of 4 and wife. My family is my life.
As of late, I have found myself completely stressed out, obessing on little things, striving for a perfection that cannot be attained and losing my temper for very little things. I blamed the out of control feelings on the new medication I am on, but I don't think that was it. I am still taking my medication and I feel wonderful.
Friday morning Lane and I left before dawn for California. He had a business trip to Southern California and I stowed away. The kids stayed home with my mother. With two of my best friends on stand by...just in case. As I said, Lane had to work so I got to read and listen to my music... My music, not Radio Disney (although the Jonas Brothers and HSM 3 are on my MP3) I got to enjoy the beauty of the mountains, the architecture of LA and the beautiful beaches of Santa Barbara. Lane and I got to walk on the beach and talk and enjoy our relationship. No stress of time restaints or whether our babysitter is tired of having the kids. We just got to enjoy one another.
I don't think I have been so relaxed in almost a decade. I am hoping this feeling lasts for a bit. I have begun the introspection to find what the cause of my unhappiness really was. I have an amazing life with beautiful, funny children, really good friends and a husband who loves me for the person I am, as imperfect as that may be. And after 13 years together, he still wants to be with me. Pretty amazing I think.

My Date with Owen

2009-02-14T16:39:00.001-08:00

Since Owen was tiny, he has loved Thomas the Tank Engine. He has had Thomas clothes, pajamas, blankets and of course a ton of trains. (not the lead containing wood ones.) Other characters have come in but Thomas is always there. So when I heard that Thomas was coming live, I knew I had to take him.

We didn't have wonderful seats, we were pretty far away, but he could still see everything. It was so much fun to see the story live. Owen "whoo whoo'd" and moved his arms like Thomas. He just was so excited to see all the trains live.

After the show we headed to his have his favorite lunch. No not McDonald's, we went to Panda Express. Owen is a huge orange chicken nut. You would never think someone his size could down so much. He ate his entire kids meal.

I had so much fun spending the day with him. It has been a long time since I had quality one n one time with him. It was truly a special day. I cherish everyday I have with him.

Make a Wish 5K

2009-01-31T19:56:00.000-08:00

When I was a teenager, I ran a lot. If I got angry or worried or stressed, I would lace up my shoes and take off. Lane and I started walking at the first of the year and I enjoy it. I love being out with him, but it just isn't running. There is just something about being outside with yourself that is exhilarating to me. I can think. I can plan. I can focus on the run. I can escape into the music. I can see the beauty of the world. I enjoy it.
A couple of years ago, I made a goal to run a marathon before I am 35. Time is ticking away on this goal and it is a goal that only I have control over. It is up to me to train and achieve this goal. So I am doing it. I just started really training for it. Today my step mom, dad, my little half sister and I participated in the Make a Wish Run. It was just as I remembered. Although I was in a crowd of people, I was alone. I was there with myself and it was up to me to make it to the finish line. What a sense of accomplishment I felt as I rounded that last corner to run to the finish line. It nearly brought tears to my eyes to think I made it.
I have to thank my step mother Ginny for her encouragement. (and awesome running shoes) She was the one who signed me up for this one. And a great big thank you to my wonderful husband. Lane brought an mp3 home for me last night for my run today. That was so thoughtful and sweet. It feels amazing to hear the words "I'm so proud of you" from him. I'm pretty proud too.

What I have Learned this week.

2009-01-18T20:43:00.001-08:00

For some who read this you know I have had an emotion couple of weeks. As with the normality, life is this Barlow house is a roller coaster ride. Just when things are calm, life happens and we begin a new "learning experience." I am happy to say, no I am not expecting another little one as some may be thinking at this time. But life will be changing one way or another for me in the next few weeks. That aside I am going to share what I have learned.
I have a sister when in time of need swoops in, takes charge and does what she can to remedy problems. I thank her with all my heart for helping me out with what seems now like a hiccup in Owen's education. It may seem like a small thing you did, but it was the way you handled it that I will always feel indebted to you for.
I have great friends who like me for me. I have the most amazing friends who I know will be there when I need them. Whether it be keeping Hayden and Owen for a couple hours on Wednesdays so I can take Lizzie to dance class or deciding I need a mental health night to spend with Lane and taking my children for "HOURS" so we can talk and not worry about time, Jaynee is always there. I would never have expected when Owen started school, I would be gaining a truly wonderful close friend. I learned if I need advice or just the simple reassurance that I am a good person, I have Joanne to put her arm around me and give me the little lift I need once and a while. She is also willing to give me the kick in the tail when I need that too.
I have learned (again) that I love my Ward. I love the sweet sisters in it who are there in times when I need that little bit of support and strength. The simple smiles and the spiritual support is ever so important. It may seem like a small gesture on your part but on my end it is grand and wonderful to me. I thank all of my new friends in my Ward (and the few I have known for a while now.) You make us feel like we are at home. And we all thank you for that. I know I can count on you too for help if I ever were to need it. That is such a relief and a comfort I cannot convey in words.
I have learned that being a family is the most important thing in my life. I have realized I am very lucky to have the children I do and a husband who is supportive and caring even when I am gripey and grouchy. I have a husband who loves me, and after 13 years still wants to spend time with me. I have a family who actually likes to spend time with each other and for the most part is happy. A family who loves one another. In the end, that is what is important to life.
I have realized that I am happy with the person I am. (size not included)

Much Needed Girls Night

2009-01-09T09:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon I got a phone call from my SIL Sarah. Her good and very generous friend opened his box for us to see High School Musical on Ice. I just can't convey how much fun the little girls had. I think us mom's (and dad) had a pretty good time too. It has been a long time since I have gone out with girls and boy have I missed the conversations about the important things happening in our lives as well as the silly things we are doing.
Thanks again to the Stewarts and to Sarah and the girls for such a wonderful evening.

The Wake Up Call

2009-01-05T07:56:00.000-08:00

Since before Lane and I got married, one of my responsibilities is waking him up. The man does not know what sleep is and why it is so important to a person. I can remember Dodie going out of town and having to call him to wake him up for work. Most of the time I would end up calling Tyler who would then have to wake up and walk downstairs to wake Lane up so he would make it to work.
Fast forward over 13 years and I am still struggling with waking him up. We are blessed in the sense he no longer goes to work at 3am, but that just gives him the idea he can stay up til 3 am. Today I called thinking I he would be up, had breakfast and ready to head for the airport a little after 7, and he was just barely awake. It makes me laugh. I thought life would change this mans sleep patterns but it hasn't and he has passed it on to half the kids.
So the wake up calls will continue...

Owen Update

2009-01-04T19:23:00.000-08:00

Well it is a new year and we have new goals. I think about last year at this time and the longing I felt to hear the simple things from Owen. I think of how I longed to hear I love you out of his little mouth or to hear him say his name. Wow what a difference from last year and even from just the few months since our trip to UCLA. Owen really is talking now. He will answer questions. He will ask questions. He even has conversations with us, his siblings and his friends.
He is still in school at Wolff in the Early Childhood program, with Mrs. Perez. He sees his school speech therapist three times a week or 30 minutes a session. She is still amazing with him. He has helped me so much with understanding what I need to do to encourage his progress. I know I can ask her the really dumb questions that I have and even if she laughs she will answer them. He sees his outside therapist too. We have had to drop down to only one day a week. But when he goes he is still all business. He goes at 7 am. Which for those who really know Owen understand just how amazing that is. Owen is my little night owl. He does not like to go to sleep. He will sit and color or look at books for hours in his bed instead of sleeping. That is the Barlow in him. And he likes to sleep in. But when I tell him we have speech in the morning, he tries really hard to go to sleep so he can be awake for therapy. Ms. Kelli is still amazing. She is really invested in him. She can not believe the progress in him. She never thought it would be so quick. I am so happy that it is.
Last week we were at my in laws and Aunt Mindie was talking to him. She was asking him all about Christmas and what he got. What he liked. He was able to actually answer her and I didn’t have to “translate” for him.
I am very concerned with Primary. Since we are no longer his teacher, I have to allow someone new into his life. I have kept him so sheltered and guarded from the “real world” I am struggling to open my sweet little man up to someone who isn’t familiar with him or Apraxia. I know I am being silly, but I am a mom who doesn’t want her child hurt. He has the cutest little girls in his class who have NEVER uttered a word about how he speaks. They actually understand a lot of what he says. I lucked out this week a good friend of mine was teaching his class and all week he practiced saying “Sister Truman.” I don’t know that he ever said it to her but he could definitely say it. I did ask him when he got home what he learned today and he was able to tell me. In complete sentences too.
We have a long road ahead of us still. Not everything is intelligible. I still have a hard time once and a while. And the people who don’t see him on a regular basis really struggle still. But the progress is there. He is talking in sentences. Sometimes the sentence structure is a little jumbled. But I am not going to worry about that part of the disorder when the stranger on the street can understand him more.

The Great Weight Loss Challenge

2009-01-01T18:26:00.000-08:00

Let the Competition Begin
My sister in law had an epiphany. She decided to challenge pretty much everyone she knows to a “Biggest Loser” type competition. We started today with the challenge. We sent in our current weight and the game is on. On April 15th we head to a party at her house for the final “weigh in.”
I really thought I would totally kick tail in this but after today, I think I need a little more will power. I did great first thing this morning. I had an egg white and veggie omelet did my Pilates and drank like three glasses of water. Then Lane needed to help out at his parent’s house and that’s when it went downhill. Dodie has the GREATEST snacks in the world. And all of them you may ever want. She’s got the crackers and cheese, the cookies, the chocolate, nuts, and of course my favorite, the jellied fruit candies. I tried really hard but I did end up indulging in 2 triscuts, a couple handfuls of almonds and cashews and of course 3 or 4 of the jellied candies. I feel SO terrible.
I am so happy to have gotten Sarah’s email letting me know about her tough day too. But tomorrow is a new day and not a holiday so GAME ON!!! Watch out this Barlow is going to win!!!

2008-12-28T21:12:00.000-08:00

I FOUND MY PHONE !!!

2008-12-24T09:25:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Polar Express

2008-12-24T09:17:00.000-08:00

Well I can't tell you all enough just how wonderful the Polar Express was. I don't know if it was because our family was together after being apart for so long this month or the amazing atmosphere but it was wonderful. Everyone enjoyed it so much. The boys were the perfect age. I love watching Hayden and how animated he is. He is honestly the most excited child ever. He was priceless. Owen is doing so wonderfully. He is not so shy anymore. He even got up on the train and led us in "Frosty the Snowman." He didn't really sing but he said his name for everyone to hear, and to understand. He loves hot chocolate so when they served it on the train he was in heaven. Camden was great for the most part. He is two and he got a little over excited and rowdy. Liz is turning into a teen, but I think she still is a child at heart enough to have totally loved the train and seeing Santa. Please watch the slide show and see how cute the kids were.
Honestly, this was a great trip. It was so wonderful to be able to go spend the time with the Barlow Family and share this experience with all of them. Thank you Sarah and Tyler.

an addition to my week -

2008-12-13T08:38:00.000-08:00

I have completely lost my phone. I had it yesterday and the battery went dead because I am on it so much. I brought it into the house and I can not find it now. I have looked all through the house with no luck.
Hayden broke his spacer playing at the park yesterday. He has only had since September. Owen has had his for two years. What the heck? How can that even happen? I guess next week will be a great one too. I've got to deal with Verizon (who is always good to me) and the dentist office. At this time I am totally irritated with.

Random Week

2008-12-11T19:29:00.000-08:00

This has been a bit of a trying week. I am not really sure why. It has had it's ups and downs like every other week. I just can't decide if it is a grey cloud looming over my head or the reality of the mishaps of the week. Let me recap and then you can decide.

I saw the horrible pictures of myself before the Jonas Brothers concert and have vowed to cut my sugar intake. I am eating way too much sugar... I also started my pilates again and can't wait to start jogging again. Lane does not understand the joy and relaxation that comes from running. Well at least that used to come from running we'll see how that I am no longer a size 2 how it feels. But an instant change I made after viewing my photos is my bangs, and I have to say they have been a topic of many conversations.

Then came some good news. Which I don't know if I am supposed to share or not but oh well here it goes. Lane and I have been teaching the Sunbeams at Church. They are so cute and so sassy. We have Owen and three little girls. I love them all. They are too funny for words. We have really enjoyed the class. It has been a real challenge for me because they are only 4 and you can't have a full on lesson. Not to mention the lessons are only a page long so we have to supplement with ALOT of fun stuff. (we color alot.) Anyway, we will not be teaching Sunbeams next year. We have a new challenge... the class with the worst reputation will be ours next year. I am SO looking forward to it. They are older, they CAN listen and discuss with us. We have like 6 boys in the class and two little girls who are the cutest things alive. I know most of them pretty well and so I am really looking forward to teaching them. Lately the class has had teachers who have other obligations and can't make it to church. I know they are a hard class but we are hoping with a little bit of love and a whole lot of structure and discipline from the beginning we will be able to turn this class around. Lane and I have already started planning our new ideas for the class.
Then my house guests came for a visit. I feel really bad complaining about having my mother come and stay. One of my best friends mom lives out of the country and she only gets to see her like once a year. My mom is down like once a week. I am really lucky to have her, but sometimes its like having another child. Sunday night I was informed that when they (mom and KC) were pulling out of the driveway, they hit the neighbors car. She said they just nudged it, but they left a note on it. Well, this neighbor is also a friend and in my Ward so imagine my embarrassment to get the phone call asking if it was someone from my house that hit her father in laws truck. And it was not a little ding either, the drivers side door had a good dent in it.
Lizzie had her dance recital. It was the little one, we don't worry too much about it. She looked really cute in her reindeer pajama pants and hair ties. I was a little ticked off I forgot my camera so I can't show you how cute she looked. Camden was AWEFUL. My sister was too sick to watch him and for some reason I don't think to ask friends to help out. I don't know I'm stupid. He totally acted his age... If he weren't so dang cute, I might have a hard time loving him sometimes. She did great from what I could see. We had to sit on the side both because it was too crowded and we have Camden.
Another good thing was Speech Therapy on Wednesday morning. We now go to speech at 7 in the morning. Since we have dropped to one day a week, we go extremely early especially since Owen is SO not a morning person. But when he has speech he tries really hard to go to bed like he is supposed to so he can wake up in the morning and go. Usually when I get his recap it has the exercises we are supposed to work on and a list of words to practice. This week, I looked at it and it had the list of exercises to do and songs to sing. We have words to practice too, but we now have songs to practice. He is doing so amazing. At school he is working on the little things like proper sentences. We are no longer allowing him to talk Tarzan to us. He has to use "I" and full sentences. He also has to look at people when he talks to them or is being talked to. I never noticed that until recently. He plays coy with you when you talk to him. So again progress is really being made.
Finally which is probably the reason I am so glum is Lane is in California for another week. He has been there for almost a week now. You would think I would be over the missing him when he travels but I am so not. So he is missing out on the Holiday season with the kids. And I am sad for that. I miss his helping with the chaos at night too.
So that is our week so far. We are off to go see Christmas Lights for a little bit before bedtime. And this week we get to bake our goodies to go around. I love doing that. It is the only time I make Gingerbread cookies... I love Gingerbread cookies. Hope you all are enjoying the season.
Happy Holidays.

JONAS BROTHERS ROCKED

2008-12-01T21:09:00.000-08:00

Saturday night was our big night. I had been waiting for this concert for a long time. I started listening to the Jonas Brothers when I worked at Justice way back in 2004. I know it's crazy but I loved them way back with Mandy. I tried to get Liz to go the When You Look Me In the Eyes tour instead of Miley Cyrus, but that did not work. I think I was as excited as she was to be going. And it was definitely not a let down.

I love Demi Lovato too. She is different. I like that. She can truly sing too. But the night belonged to the JB. They took the stage at 9:30 and they played without a break until about 11:15. Lizzie's fave stayed on the stage the ENTIRE time. He went from the guitar to the drums to the piano and back. One thing that did shock me is they didn't stop and really chat it up with the audience. They talked a little, but they sang the whole time really. They were there to perform and they did just that.

I know it is really silly that me being the age that I am and loving the Jonas Brothers. But I do. Can't wait to see them the next time they come to Vegas. (or maybe somewhere close)

Final Countdown

2008-11-29T17:36:00.000-08:00

Well, it is two and a half hours until the JONAS BROTHERS CONCERT. I am so totally excited and so is Lizzie. I am sure it is going to be awesome, I will let you all know soon.

So Jealous

2008-11-26T20:35:00.000-08:00

A little while ago, Lizzie earned enough money to buy her new phone. I finally ordered the dang thing for her and she got it today. WOW. I am so jealous. It is seriously one of the coolest gadgets I have seen. It is a TV/Video phone. It is the same phone that Ashely Tisdale had in the movie Picture This and from what Lizzie says it is the same phone as she has in real life. I mean really it is soo cool. The color quality is amazing, the sound is awesome. I am so jealous. I can't wait to upgrade. To bad I am too cheap to do it before my renewal for myself.

PS for those of you who have Lizzie's number has changed. So let me know if you need it.

Not many like him

2008-11-22T21:43:00.001-08:00

This weekend our family is being joined by a good friend of mine's children. The older is one of Lizzie's good friends so she is 11 and her brother is 10. So that brings our kid count to 6. Also Friday night, just because, Lizzie asked us to let her best friend come and stay the night. So we figured what the hey, the more the merrier. So that was a total of 7. I was shocked to think that by 10:00 all 7 kids were asleep. And by 6 am all 7 kids were AWAKE. The day was chaotic, Taylor had a soccer tournament, Ryan had a football game, and the boys had their last baseball game of the season and their party we were in charge of. Throw in preparations for Thanksgiving and you had our Saturday. So, we were back down to 6 kids when my brother called and needed a babysitter for the twins tonight. So tonight we have 8 kids. And it is not even 10 and everyone in bed or at least lying down.
I do have to laugh, I went to the store to grab a couple things, by myself which was so nice. When I came back the boys were running around playing, the older girls were upstairs watching some silly movie and the twins were throwing a major fit because Lane had taken something away from them. Carlie stopped pretty quickly, she likes Lane so when he picked her up she stopped crying. Claire actually followed him up the stairs yelling. And there he was standing in the loft when I walked in with a big huge smile on his face. There are just not many men out there that would do any of this, the helping and staying nice just really showed me how rare he is.

PS - It is now 6:30 on Sunday morning, I have made breakfast for one and two boys are already playing football... How on earth will we make it to Church?

I Finished

2008-11-20T07:02:00.001-08:00

I AM HAPPY TO SAY I HAVE FINISHED ALL TWILIGHT SERIES. I FINSIHED LAS NIGHT BEFORE BED. I HAVE TO SAY, I THINK IT WAS A GREAT ENDING.

Now to #4

2008-11-17T21:37:00.000-08:00

Well, I am on to number 4.

I said I wouldn't do it, but I did

2008-11-17T08:06:00.000-08:00

I spent this weekend reading the first two Twilight Books. Now I am on to 3-4. I am ready for spoilers. I really don't have time to read them so if someone would like to tell me how they end I'm good with that.

Facebook

2008-11-13T18:49:00.000-08:00

About a month ago, Lane wanted to catch up with an old friend of his. His Best Friend. Our sister in law called and told him that he was on Facebook and to look him up. Well, Lane being the "hey go look him up for me" person, I joined Facebook. Its kind of funny, I am linked to all of my friends now, mostly ladies... Lane is friends with a handful of guys and mostly Ladies... But that is besides the point. The other day my friend sent me a link to this "mothers" group thing on Facebook. I joined, I thought what the heck. Well last night as I played on it I found a web page for Childhood Apraxia. Its kinda crazy I have been having a conversation with two ladies all day from back east with children with Apraxia. I actually have been talking to people who totally understand my frustration and concern. Isn't technology wonderful. Thanks Angie for sending that link.

Such a Change

2008-11-12T17:50:00.000-08:00

My day today started so wonderful. I am still feeling grateful for what I have but I am really wondering what the heck some people are thinking. As you can read on my blog, the school board is thinking of rezoning HALF of Seven Hills to Liberty High School 6 miles from home and away from Conorado which is only 1.5 miles from home. We are a tight community as this was very apparent on Saturday when the community for the Seven Hills Parent Association. Our elementary school includes children from Anthem Highlands and Madera Canyon which is south of Anthem... I have been getting phone call after phone call from parents about us not including them in our fight to keep our kids at Coronado. I just got a phone call from a TOTAL stranger infurated that we left them out of an email sent out informing the PTA bank of the changes. You know honestly that was a total oversight on my part, but GIVE ME A BREAK !!! After listening to more of the people who have been at the meetings telling of what the board members have said, I am now at the point where Seven Hills will fight to keep the 200 students we have in high school going to a school that is within walking distance and Anthem and Madera can fight on their own to keep their 300+ students there. It is actually closer for the students who are already being bussed from Madera and Anthem Highlands to go down the Exectutive Airport Dr to Liberty than it is for them to go through Sun City, Anthem and then down Eastern and through part of Seven Hills. The school board is going to so what it is going to do whether it is logical to us or not. They have to raise the test scores at Liberty... Another thank you to the No Child Left Behind Act. (one thing I hope Pres Obama looks into after the economy) I guess the bottom line is **** happens and as a parent you do whatever you can to fight it from happening to your child. If that means dividing within a school to keep a community together that is what happens. Wolff could get pretty UGLY, really soon.

Special

2008-11-12T10:55:00.000-08:00

I am not sure if it is the month of November or if it is the happenings of the world but I have been feeling very blessed lately. I know I am one of the luckiest women because I am married to one of the most wonderful men on this planet. To the outside, he may not seem extraordinary but in our small world he is more than extraordinary.
Lane is one of the hardest working men I know. He has given 110 percent at any job he has had. His job now is no exception. At times I am annoyed with the fact his phone never stops or he works a little bit here and there on the weekends…But that is who he is. He is a man trying to provide for his family and make sure the mother of his children can be at home to take care of his beautiful family.
He is a man who sacrifices sleep when he is exhausted to mop the floor because 12 years ago when I was pregnant with Elizabeth I couldn’t do that task and he thinks I do enough now. He is the man who out of the blue will text Elizabeth something silly just so she knows he loves her and is thinking about her. He is the Father that still after two and a half years, sits down to rock Camden to sleep every night. He plays football with Hayden and somehow makes the time to coach a baseball team so we know Owen can play and have a good time.
Lane is the person who will stop and get me a soda on the way home from work because the boys are being a little crazy and he thinks I need a little pick me up. And the man who will surprise me with my favorite treat when we finally have everyone asleep and we can sit down and have a conversation with out interruption. He is the person after almost 13 years, I want to still sit and have a conversation with. He is the man who will go grocery shopping with me just so we can spend time together.
As we enter into this holiday season, I sit and think back to this time so many years ago. This is the time we fell in love and the time of so much happiness for us in many ways. I have never felt the need to express my love in such an open forum, but I think it is about time for everyone to know how wonderful Lane is and how thankful I am to have met him and to be blessed enough to spend forever with.

Track Break

2008-11-09T22:16:00.000-08:00

This was our October, hope you enjoy it.

Isn't she beautiful.

2008-11-09T21:37:00.000-08:00

I took this picture of Liz while we were at Grandma's. She is really beautiful.

Owen Update

2008-11-09T21:21:00.001-08:00

WOW !! Owen has been working extremely had on his speech. His school speech therapist sent his books home for track break and we worked really hard on them. We also played a lot which some how really helps with his speech. He can say "I win, you lose" very well. There is really not much he can't say. Whether you understand it or not is the question. He still has some grunting and completely unintelligible words. And he has figured out one syllable words to use for many things. One day he wanted a Popsicle so when he was in the freezer, I asked what he was doing and he looked at me and said, "me ice pop." I thought he was brilliant that he had put the two words together to say what he wanted all on his own. It turns out his teacher who was also his babysitter while I was subbing his class calls them ice pops... But at least he can say it. Another funny thing is he can say Hayden very well. And Hayden can understand EVERYTHING he says. One day I couldn't understand what he was trying to tell me and after about 30 minutes of him repeating himself over and over and me asking all kinds of questions trying to figure it out he yells upstairs - "HAYDEN HELP ME!" so Hayden came and listened to what he said and said to me, "Owen's imaginary friend Bal is hungry." Okay, had no idea he had an imaginary friend nor that he was hungry. His can't say Camden well so he still calls him Baby. You can ask him who his teachers are and he says their names. Which the first couple times he said his aide's name made her cry. (she is amazing) Another funny thing is when he has done something wrong and is going to get in trouble, he says, "MOM Love You." It worked the first few times but not anymore. I do love to hear those words.

Tonight we were looking at pictures and he saw one where he has a major kool aid mustache and he said "look, me red mustache." It is amazing... He is really making a lot of progress. I know his talking is still a little Tarzanish but I love to hear him.

I know he is special. You can see in his eyes he is on this earth at this time for a reason. I am anxious and nervous to find out what the Owen's Divine plan is.

School Zoning Commission Is CRAZY

2008-11-08T17:23:00.000-08:00

This week I was informed half of Seven Hills is up for rezoning from Coronado High School to Liberty High School. This is just so outrageous. We live less than 2 miles away from Coronado and 6 miles away from Liberty. Getting to Liberty will also mean crossing St Rose Parkway. The school board is trying to remove a total of 250-300 students from Coronado...
Why not take the kids from the Stephanie and 215 area out and send them to Liberty or Green Valley or Silverado which they pass on the bus they ride already to get to Coronado... Doesn't that make a little more sense? I know budgets are being cut drastically, yet CCSD is going to add more transportation routes to bus the kids from Seven Hills to Liberty. I just don't get it...
Luckily we do have a great community who has already begun assembling to fight this...If anyone is interested in joining in the fight let me know.
Hopefully Lizzie will be discovered by some talent agent and we will be rich enough to have a private tutor. (sorry Carey, I know your boys are going to be zoned there, but no thank you, I don't want Liz there.)

I'm doing Better

2008-11-06T13:30:00.001-08:00

Thank you all who have been concerned. I think I really was over the track break thing... We are back to school and I am back to running around like a crazy person. I have also fixed my blog so you can comment. Thank you Willow and Annilee for your overwhelming concern. I have a ton to post I hope I will have a chance to get caught up soon. Thanks again...

Not Myself

2008-10-28T21:19:00.000-07:00

Tonight I had a meeting for my Room Reps for PTA and I was talking to the Room Dad and he made the comment tonight that I am just not my go getter self lately. I am feeling that too I and I don't quite know how to get out of the funk I am in.
I have always been involved in 200 things at once, and right now, I am not, yet I don't feel like I can accomplish even one thing. It is not even the physical exhaustion that I am fighting. I am always tired, that is what happens when you become a mom... I am mentally scattered. I honestly don't know what to do... HELP... I am ready for any suggestions. Maybe once the boys are back in school I will feel more involved and more motivated... What do you think?

HSM 3

2008-10-27T19:47:00.001-07:00

I am a HUGE High School Musical fan. I have loved it since the first time we watch the original. I have been waiting impatiently for the long awaited opening of the final HSM. I am so lucky Lizzie still likes the franchise and was willing to see it with me. We bought our tickets a week or so early to ensure we would have them and went on opening day. If it would have been up to me, I would have gone to the first showing but Liz would not miss school to go with me. I had to settle for an evening showing. I have to say it was a great movie. I loved it. The music was great, the dancing was so fun and the story was so sweet. I admit, I starting crying about half way through the movie and didn't stop until we were in the car. So anyway, I can't wait to go back and see it again. I am hoping to find someone to go see it with this weekend again.

And now the count down to the Jonas Brothers has begun....

A THANK YOU TO GOOD FRIENDS

2008-10-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

So tonight Lane and I got a phone call no parent really wants to get. We had run to the store really quick and left Lizzie at home with the boys. I don't feel well so I have been procrastinating getting ready for my candle party. We were on Horizon Ridge and Jefferys when Lizzie called panicked. Someone was banging on the door. Not a knock but banging on the door. She had locked herself and her brothers in the closest bathroom and called us. We were still a few minutes away so we are SO lucky to have good Friends to come to our rescue. Lizzie called the Roylance Family and within 20 seconds, Matt and Greg Herlean were at the door checking on the kids. We were close behind them because Lane drove 80 mph up the winding Seven Hills Drive...(that was scary too.) So Thank You much to the Roylance and Herlean Families for being so willing to help... Thanks for caring !!!

And Thanks to Janet, Taylor and Ryan for the life lesson for Lizzie. And for knowing our family so well to know you scared the patoostie out of us !! We love you.

2008-10-12T15:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I was tagged. I thought I could fly under the radar with this whole blogging thing. But my sis in law Sarah tagged me. So here it is:
the rules:
*Link to the person who tagged you
*Post the rules on your blog
*Write six random things about yourself
*Tag six-ish people at the end of your post
*Let each person know he/she has been tagged
*Let the tagger know when your entry is up

#1 - I love to cook. I think most people know this about me. One day I hope to have a catering business. I have catered a few events but I have not sought out business. I am hoping to write a cook book in the near future. But we'll see how that goes. I love to cook for other people. I find it very rewarding to cook a good meal for my family or friends to enjoy.

#2 - I love to dance. I started dancing when I was 3 and danced until a knee injury side lined me. I still can be found dancing around the house.

#3 - I think I may be one of the happiest married women on the planet. I am married to a wonderful man who tries his hardest to be romantic (even if he's more cheesey than romantic). After 13 years, he is still my best friend in the world and I could never live without him. I look forward to the rest of eternity with him.

#4 - I love being a Mom. I never thought I would have kids and I am so happy I do. I feel super blessed everyday that I have the wonderful children I have. I love being at home with them in the day. I love being active in the school so I know what is happening there at the school. I love watching their sports and taking them places. I love cooking for them, I just wish Liz and Hayden would try more things to eat. I love having homemade cookies and treats ready for them after a long day at school. I love taking them to the park and watching them play or playing with them. I just love being a mom.

#5 - I am on the countdown to High School Musical 3. I cannot wait to see it. I have love the other two and watch them as much as the kids do. I think the music is great, the message is beautiful, and Zac Efron is hot. ( i know kinda gross since he's 10 years younger.) I am hoping my original HSM t shirt I bought at Justice when the movie first came out fits in 12 days when the movie comes out !!!

#6 - I LOVE THE JONAS BROTHERS !!! I have been listening to the Jonas Brothers for longer than Liz and I love them. Their song "Mandy" used to play at Justice when I managed it way back in '04 and I would sing and bop through the store. Their music is so simple and sweet. It is upbeat and always has a good meaning. They are cute and wholesome and I am happy to have my children like them. I think their parents should be commended on how they have raised such a family. I CANNOT WAIT UNTIL NOVEMBER 29th when Lizzie and I are going to see them LIVE !!!

So there you have it. That is 6 very random things about me. Now I tag Carey, Heather, Annilee, Willow and Melissa.
http://sarahbarlow.blogspot.com/

What Happened to Parenting ?

2008-10-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I have spent the past 3 weeks working as the subsitute teacher for the Early Childhood Special Education program at our local elementary. This has given me the opportunity to really be inside the school setting. This with many trips to the park and other events recently have brought me to really ponder the question: What happened to parenting?

I will preface this rant by saying I do not feel I am a perfect parent. I am actively working to become a better parent daily. I strive to teach my children right from wrong, teach them a sense of self and the worth of each of their beautiful spirits, to teach them the value of an education, to teach them respect for self and others, and to be good Christlike people. I want to be the best parent I can to give my children the best advantage in life. Again, I am not perfect and I know this but, I am climbing onto my soap box to ask you to really think about how your parenting is affecting others your children are coming in contact with. I hope it is in a positive way because in this world we live in we need to spread love throughout our children.

When I was a teenager I never really thought I would have children. This may be a shock to many of you. I was going to be a career person and children did not fit in to that equation. If I did have a child, I wanted to be that "cool" mom who hung out with everyone and everyone wanted to hang out with. Wow - So far from what I think now. I think this is where the world of parenting has gone wrong.

We as parents have the responsiblity of teaching our children how to love. That does NOT mean give them everything they want at all times. We have to look out for our children's best interest. If that means to say no then say it. Deal with the tantrum, the anger, the frusteration. That is your job, you choose when you decided to have your child DEAL WITH IT! Let me give you a few examples of how we are ruining our children.

#1 - Last week I met my friend with her boys at the park. We played and played when a little girl who was maybe 5 came to the swings. She yelled to her mother to put her on the swings. My not so polite son came to me and said, "Mom look at that little girl, she is so fat." I was horrified, but it was true. I told him that was not a nice thing to say, just because she was not as skinny as he was. He and his friend just watched her swing. Owen and his buddy had just finished swinging in the baby swings when the little girl gets off the swing walks over to the baby swings and yells again at mom. "I want to swing in here" she said. Mom replied, "no you are too big that is a baby swing." We then got the full tantrum. "I WANT TO SWING IN THIS SWING NOW!!!" The feet were stomping the arms swinging as she repeated herself over and over. So instead of mom being a parent and explaining to her the idea she was too big for the baby swing she put her in. This story ends witht he fire department coming to the park to cut the little girl out of the swing. NO JOKE !!! A parent who was unwilling to deal with the consequence of what was best for her child. Instead of sticking to the no, she gave in and humiliated her child.

#2- In one of my classes I had a child who is in there for the main reason of the mother doesn't know what the heck she is doing. The child is disruptive, distructive and hard to deal with. In my few weeks in this class, I had the great opportunity to have the director of Early Childhood in my class, the superintedent of the southeast region in my class and several other administrators in my class... No pressure for a new substitute right... I have to say the director of EC was a huge help. But even she could not figure a way to deal with this child. All he needs is love she told me. But when you showed this child kindness and love, unless it was the entire two and a half hours of school one on one attention, his behavior got worse. My principal was in the class one day as we were cleaning up and he was throwing one of his little trantrums and she was appauled to think he was there because no one had been a parent to him. My school psychologist put it the best way. This program is the first step in showing him that he is of value. Without school and the teachers he would never know how he is supposed to behave in society. When did it become the teachers job to teach a child how to behave in society? Isn't that the parents job?

#3 - I had the opportunity to step into a regular ed class one afternoon for a little while. Within the first ten minutes of being in the class, I got a call from the office to let me know that one of the boys in the class is being withdrawn from school because mom and dad are playing a custody game and he is flip flopping between two schools. How about that for stability. Let's destroy our child's ability to know a stable life just because we can't stand one another. I understand divorce happens, I am a product of it, but try to give your children the stability they deserve. I have several friends who are divorced and they don't like their exes but they put their children first so the children know they are the most important things in their life. I was in this class on a Friday. The next Monday I was walking into the school when there this poor little boy was again and Mom was trying to enroll him again. So the little thing was back to being a ping pong ball in the fight between mom and dad.

I know that my parenting affects other kids. I have been called mean many times because I don't allow the kids to do things. I have been told to lighten up because I expect my boys to behave a certain way in public. But I know I am making a difference. Last week a little boy in my sons school class came up to me at Church and gave me a great big hug. I smiled and asked what that was for and he said to me: "It is nice to see you that is all." That is what being a parent is all about. I know that because Hayden is the kind hearted little boy he is, I have made a difference in another boys life too.

Being a parent is the most important job we have. It is one that at times is totally thankless... But the simplest hug, smile or I love you makes all the hardship of life melt away. Take the job seriously, it is the most important one you have.

I Love 7 Hills

2008-09-18T20:39:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned I love Seven Hills. I love where I live. Our school is great, even though we are way over capcity. The teachers are caring and fun, the administration is on the ball, it is a great place. I love all the parks. We can walk to 4 different parks. On trails so we don't have to worry about traffic. People are always out. My friend and I walk at night after we put the kids to bed and we aren't the only ones out there at 10 at night. The people we pass are friendly too. It is wonderful. I love driving down the streets and seeing people I know and getting to wave or getting waved at. I love the view. We can see stars. That just does not happen much in Vegas. The strip view is amazing and so are the sunsets. Especially if you are on the trail by the airport at sun down. I love my ward. I am so happy to be in a place where I can take my four heathens to Church on Sunday by myself if needed. I love the friends that I have made at the school and Church. Okay so some of you may live in Anthem Highlands or Madera Canyon. I am so lucky.

I love Seven Hills.

Playdates

2008-09-01T20:47:00.001-07:00

Owen's Play Date
Today was an interesting day for our family. This morning Owen his friend come over to play. This is something that really doesn't happen much. I am still very guarded with him. He has a great friend from school named Noah. Noah and Owen have been in school together for a little over a year. Noah's mom is Tal, who is amazing. She is so beautiful and sweet. And it is a genuine kindness in her. She is from Israel and I find her stories of childhood fascinating. Noah and Owen are perfect for one another. They both understand what the other is saying. They play so well and they are so happy together. Noah has a brother Adam who is almost six, so it works out perfect. Hayden and Adam can play while Noah and Owen play, and moms can talk. This morning we did just that. We had a great conversation about everything happening in our lives while the boys ran around playing. Owen was so excited that his friend was able to come to his house to play. I honestly think this was the first "play date" Owen has had. It is so amazing to watch the two of them communicate. They just love to play, and they love one another. I know I need to lift Owen's shelter a little, but I am just not ready. I am glad he has a friend who can come into our little world and understand why it is so closed off. http://apaxia-kids.com
Hayden's Play date
Hayden played with Adam this morning which he enjoyed a bunch, but this afternoon his good buddy from down the street came to play too. They first started at Thomas' house, and then came to our house. The boys ran and played for a while and then came down stairs to read books. The two sat on the couch and were fairly quiet. I was making dinner, Lizzie and Lane were in the family room with the boys and it happened. Hayden took his Book of Mormon off the bookshelf and handed it to Thomas. And he said... "Hey Thomas, have you ever heard of the Book of Mormon? It is really neat. It talks about Jesus and Heavenly Father. It has really cool pictures in it too. I would really like for you to learn more about Jesus." Oh my goodness... WOW ! That was a six year old talking. I can hear it over and over in my head. It was just so amazing to think that Hayden loves the Church so much that he is already trying to share it with his friends. He spoke like a true missionary. Just they phrases he used was so profound. Sometimes you just listen to him and wonder where he comes up with some of the things he says...
I have to admit I am pretty proud of him.http://lds.org

Just a Little Bike Ride

2008-08-28T10:27:00.000-07:00

The boys love riding their bikes. We are so lucky to live around wonderful bike trails. The other night we decided to head out on the bikes. This was Owen's first ride on his bike and not in the trailer. He is amazing. He about eat the pavement once but he did not even miss a beat. He just kept going. The boys are growing up so fast. (you will notice Lizzie opted to stay home and listen to music)

Barlow's go back to school

2008-08-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

Another Year Set to Begin

2008-08-22T20:40:00.000-07:00

As I sit here tonight looking for ideas for creative lunches, I am struggling to think my sweet little Hayden is heading to all day school in just two days. Today he had Open House. It was the first time he met his teacher, Mrs. Bailey. She is so super sweet. She is a quiet, sweet, tender teacher. I made her a cute little candy bouquet and as he went to give it to her before the open house, he shook he was so nervous. She almost teared up to think he was that nervous. We are lucky in first grade this year, we are starting the year with 14 students... What a great class size. And several are LDS, so I am excited he will be able to bond with some other LDS boys this year. His buddy Carter is in his class too. So he is happy about that.
It is still hard to believe that we are all growing up so quickly. As my Grandfather reminded me last night, the kids aren't the only ones getting older... Monday will be hard. I don't know that I am ready for Hayden to be away from me for six hours a day. But I think he is ready and that is all that matters.

Update on the Target Saga

2008-08-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

This morning I received a phone call from the Administrative Assistant at the Target District office for Las Vegas. I was told that she "empathizes with my situation" which in retail speak means I don't give a crap. She then told me I needed to send my complaint in writing and gave me the info on who to send it to. (already done.) What a joke. They will "coach" him on his behavior. Again, retail speak, tell him he got a complaint, if that much. I am so sad to think they are not taking me seriously. And I am clueless... I have never complained about someone before, nor did I ever have any one complain about me to any of my DM's. So I don't even really know where to go from here. I am up for suggestions. I will let you all know what response, if any, I get from the letter that I sent.
amy

BOYCOTT SILVERADO RANCH TARGET

2008-08-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows I love Target. Even more, I love the Silverado Ranch Target... So you have to understand just how upset I am to be writing this. Today, I thought I would finish our back to school supply shopping; with all four kids. No big deal, they are generally good when shopping. We were at Target had most of what was on our list and we were waiting. I STOOD near the Mens section, off to the side with Owen sitting in the front of the cart and Camden standing in the basket. WE WERE STANDING THERE. I actually still had my hand on Camden to get him to not hit Owen when a gentleman (I use the term loosely) by the name of Travis walked up put his hand on Camden's shoulder and address CAMDEN( A two year old): "You need to sit down." he said to Camden, not to me... HELLO parent, adult, over the age of two... Don't you think I should be the one being spoken to. I looked at him directly and said, "If he's not sitting for me, he's not going to sit for you." I then told him when we moved he would sit. That is when he told me that if I wanted to use his cart, he would need to sit right then and if I didn't make him sit now, I could leave. So that is exactly what I did. When I got home, I called the store to get information for the District Manager and guess what they had no idea who it was or how I could get a hold of her. RIGHT!!! I did get the information from a very nice gentleman at the new Henderson store.
I think had he approached me, not my child, I would probably be okay with it. He needs to sit, I understand, it's not safe but don't TOUCH MY CHILD and don't reprimand my child. At Gymboree if I would have tried something like this, Heather would have lost it. Not to mention, at the Meadows the parent would have kicked my tail. In retail there is a way to redirect childrens behavior, we discussed it many times on conference calls and in meetings, this was definitely not a way I was every told to do it. It's just unprofessional to approach a child like that.

All is Well

2008-08-17T17:23:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to thank everyone who has checked in on the kids and me. So, thank you so much for your thoughts and phone calls and visits. I am so lucky and happy to have the friends that I have made.
Owen is feeling much better. He still has a cough that sounds like he is a 80 year old chain smoker. It took him a full week to feel better. He is still run down and wants to sleep alot. But overall he is back to his crazy fun self.
Hayden can finally eat again. It turned out his illness had nothing to do with his trip to the baseball game. He had a tooth infection. I called the doctor a couple of Thursdays ago and said he was starting to have problems with it but they dismissed me like I didn't know what I was talking about and scheduled an appointment a week later. So three days into the week, his jaw swelled, his tooth abscessed and his fever spiked. Huh, mom did know what she was talking about. I will be glad to return to the Gubler Family Dental practice, I really don't care for this dentist. Anyway, I started him on antibiotics that he had left from something (they were still good) last Tuesday afternoon when all was clear to me and he has reacted very well to it. He can again eat. His Church pants were super baggy today.
I will be happy to have his personality back to normal. He still needs to rest.
Camers is doing great !!! He spent time over at "rampa bUUUsses" Grandpa Bruce's house last night (He says it so cute)no accidents and no accidents in nursery today either. I just can't tell you how excited I am that I don't have to buy diapers. Even more, I don't have to change diapers anymore. He thinks he's pretty cool. It helps that the Nursery Leader and workers praised him too. My baby is growing up... YEAH !!
And finally... Lizzie is all set for Middle School. We went on Friday and picked up her schedule, found her locker and classes and all that fun stuff. Wow, Del Webb is a NICE school. She is excited she has a friend in her first period class and her best friend in her PE class. A sweet little girl in our Ward has the locker under Lizzie's. That's right Lizzie scored a top locker.
So as I said, all is well. Lane is working in Phoenix this week. I don't really understand that one, but oh well. He is staying at a hotel with a kitchenette so I made him a weeks worth of meals and froze them so he will eat well this week. Not to mention I will have to do minimal cooking this week. But that is where we are. Life starts getting crazy this week. I head into the school to start getting stuff together to sub. (and get my PTA stuff together too.) Again, thanks to everyone for the prayers and thoughts for the family. They are always appreciated.

This week's Project

2008-08-16T22:43:00.000-07:00

One of my close friends had a very beautiful little girl two weeks ago. Today was her baby shower. I have been planning since last November what I wanted to give her. Jaynee is a very special person. She is a wonderful friend who I love to spend time with. And I actually take the time away from the family to head to dinner or lunch with her. Which is something I rarely (very rarely)do. But I enjoy talking and laughing and having adult conversations with her. She is also Owen's teacher. So sending my precious Owen off to school is easy knowing he is in a class with a teacher that loves him as much as she does.
As you can tell, I wanted to do something very special for her. I am not a very crafty person. I love to do it, but I am not very good. I have NEVER in my life used a sew machine. Anything I have done up to this point has been done by hand. But, I wanted her gift to be special. I decided a few months ago I would make her a hooded bath towel. Then to go along with it, I made a couple of receiving blankets with burp cloths. My burp clothes weren't that cool though, I had to make them square, I couldn't cut the kidney shaped ones. I am pretty proud of myself. My stitching isn't straight and it is definately not perfect, but it is definatly from the heart and made with love.

On to the Next Stage of Life

2008-08-12T14:41:00.000-07:00

As I celebrate the arrival of my good friend Jaynee's sweet little princess, I have begun to ponder how we are beginning a new stage in our family. Lane and I sat with Frank, Jaynee and Khloe for a little while Sunday, it really hit us. They are at the beginning, and we have moved on from the baby stage. Although she is a gorgeous little one, and I love holding her. I am not envious, nor do I feel the yearning for another. Lane and I bought our last box of diapers last month. Owen is in preschool, Hayden is in first grade and Lizzie is beginning Middle School. Life is changing. Normally I am not big on change but these are good changes.

Camden is almost completely potty trained. I know we will have an occasional accident, but he is doing very well. I think he misses his diapers. Every now and then he will ask for one, but then we let him pick out a new pair of underpants to put on instead. He is the cutest little guy, but now he looks even older with out his diaper bulge.

Owen is still in preschool, I am happy to say he is staying at Wolff for the time being. (We'll see how the progress goes.) The big change for Owen is he is learning to ride a bike. He has been riding it throughout the house. This is a great thing considering yesterday he was flat down again with a fever and the horrible cough he has.

My sweet little Hayden is starting first grade. For the past three years, we have had half day school. He is getting a little nervous about starting first grade. He picked out his backpack. A very cool Bumblebee Transformers backpack. And after about 6 stores, I found a lunchbox that matched. This is something I am very weird about. They have to match. He keeps reminding himself that Carter and Kiley are in his class next year and that seems to be calming him. He is also looking forward to the new bigger "park" (playground). I know he has a wonderful teacher who will be great with him, so I know he will be just fine. Not to mention starting on the 10th of Sept, until track break, I am there too. Then off and on. It is my home away from home. Camden thinks he has free reign of the school.

Then we move onto our biggest change... Lizzie goes to middle school. Okay, so not ready for this one. Although she is crazy about the Jonas Brothers and has had a crush on a boy from another Ward in our Stake, she is not a Middle Schooler. I don't want her to be a middle schooler. She is back to being my sweet, innocent beautiful little girl. She had a rough time a few months ago, but realized her personality changed when she started hanging around a couple of girls. She moved on to a great group. She is really looking forward to tennis with Amaya and Tessa. Her best friend Macy and her compliment each other so well. She has a few other really good friends. They are just down to earth GOOD GIRLS. I know she will be fine in middle school. But it did seem weird to watch Lane and her walk out of the huge school.
So life is changing. I am so happy to be home and able to watch it change. Don't get me wrong, I am looking forward to subbing also. The greatest part of that is it is as much as I want. I can still be a mom... I am more organized as a working mom, so I think this will the best of both worlds for me. So as this Barlow Family progresses on to new adventures, I can't help but think of how lucky I am to have such a loving family to set off with.

The Excitement Continues

2008-08-10T20:29:00.000-07:00

So our week of excitement has continued. Hayden has a good friend who lives only 5 houses away. They have been spending a lot of time playing outside and at each others houses. Saturday was no expection. They went back and forth, and in between. We are so excited for him to have a good friend so close. He can play and be a normal kid. Well, after playing all day, Hayden went with the Flannery Family to the 51's game. It seemed a little weird for him to be gone. We don't let any of the kids really go anywhere with anyone. But we decided to let him go. He had a blast. But he came home super thirsty. Long story short... About 2 I got a strange feeling and went into his room, he was burning up. He was dehydrated and heat stroked. He responded well to he rehydration and rest. We didn't have to visit the ER again but came really close. So, the week is over, and a new one has begun. We are going to hide I think for a while. We need to regroup and put the craziness behind us. Talk to everyone soon.
Amy

PS - Angie - be glad you took Brooke, I found out Owen is contagious for 3-5 days. I would hate for your family to get this too. Talk to you soon !

Another BIG Event

2008-08-08T07:56:00.001-07:00

So as the week has progressed, we have had one thing after the other. Lane and I had thought our craziness had ended. At about 2:30 this morning Owen woke up with what I thought was an asthma attack. I am still amazed that such a small sound from down the hall can wake me up as quickly as that. Normally I would just give him a breathing treatment and put him back to sleep without waking Lane, but not this time. I immediately woke Lane. He brought Owen downstairs and we gave him the breathing treatment. It did not work. We gave him another. Lane got dressed It barley worked. He was able to breathe but still not well. So off they went to the Emergency Room. It turns out, Owen has Croup. He was the 4Th child into Sienna last night with it. Before he left another one was brought in by ambulance with it. This was only our second trip to the ER with our children, the first was when Hayden was only a few weeks old, so we are not used to it. What a scare. I am so grateful that he is okay, that it was something they could treat and send him home. I don't think I usually one to take my children's health for granted. I guess I needed reminder of just how lucky we really are.

Promotion Pt 2

2008-08-07T20:22:00.000-07:00

Lizzie's Promotion Pictures

PROMOTIONS Part 1

2008-08-07T17:50:00.000-07:00

Well this week has been huge in our family. Hayden has graduated kindergarten. He is officially moving to First Grade, all day school for my little man. He was so cute. He sang his little heart out. You can see him put all that he has into each song that he sang. He even did the "Can Can." I just can't tell you how cute he was. He was so excited. He is ready to go to first grade. I know he will have a wonderful teacher. We thought long and hard about who would be the best fit for him and I think he got her. He will have one of his best buddies, Carter, in his class. I think he will do well. Me on the other hand. I am not handling the changes happening in this house to well.

Fifth Grade Celebration and Sock Hop

2008-08-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

It is finally over. Yesturday was the annual fifth grade celebration. Normally it is a Fifth Grade Dance, this year we switched things up. If it were a "dance" most LDS kids would not be able to go. So since I was in charge, I changed the name and added a few little things to it and turned it into a big party. Our theme was "Sock Hop." I had an amazing committee... I have to say publically this would not have been the "PARTAY" it was with out them !!!

We spent most of Friday afternoon and evening decorating. Kristen Truman kept everything organized and flowing. She is amazing. I have been so blessed to get to know her this year. She is the woman who does it all and looks perfect doing it !!! Thanks Kristen !!!

We thought it would be fun to have a penny candy table. This is where the kids could pick out their own candy and fill a bag. We had candy necklaces, licorice, taffy, and bazooka gum to name a few. My sweet friend Angela took charge of this. Even though she was swamped with end of the season dance craziness, she found the time to help me. She is truely one of the sweetest, most beautiful woman I know. Thank you Angela for your hard work and friendship.

PTA has a new family who is a blast to work with. The Sanchez Family makes everything bigger and better. They donated In and Out Burger to keep the Diner theme going. It was amazing. Burgers and all the fixings. They also dressed the part. April spent the weekend making poodle skirts for herself and her girls and they were sooo cute. I can't say Thank you enough to these two. So much pressure was lifted when Robb said he would handle to food. THANK YOU SO MUCH !!! You went above and Beyond.

Also in the diner was the soda float station. It was equipped with the soda jerks and all. Robb Sanchez and John O'Connor looked the part and I think even enjoyed themselves while doing it. They served any ice cream or float you wanted. It isn't often you get men to these functions, and even less often you can get them to enjoy themselves while helping you out. Once again, too much fun. Robb and John from the bottom of my heart THANK YOU !!!

< div>No 50's party is complete with out the cotton candy. My darling friend Fawn came to the rescue on this one. She is the Cotton Candy Queen. She has her own machine even. She was up to her ears in cotton candy and kept a smile on her face. I was so happy to have her help. Her daughter is one of Lizzie's best friends, and I am so excited to have them be friends. Macy is a true friend to Liz. And in 5th grade that is hard to come by. Thank you Fawn for being a trooper and helping me out !!! Thanks.

Also, Thanks to Deb Marimberga for being a sport and helping where ever she needed. And she was the only other parent to dress up. I had planned on it but ran out of time. Deb is another amazing woman and mom. She is always there to help. I am so glad I had you to rely on. Thank you. Thank you to Lisa Detlaff also. Lisa was almost not able to come but I am so happy she did. Thanks for you help!!! Bridgette, you rock. You are so supportive and helpful. PTA would not be the same without you. Everything I have done, you have been right by my side helping me. Thank you...and John for everything.

It hit me Monday night how lucky I was to have a certain friend. My friend Lyn doesn't have a fifth grader, but she was there right by my side the whole time. She decorated, searched through out nasty shed for things, cleaned up, took pictures the whole nine. I am so lucky to have met her. She was a friend of a friend who has since moved away. But she is such a good friend, Thank you. I cannot begin to thank you for everything....

To Amy Koch, Michelle, Jenell, Alice, Nina, Lori, Karen, Sharon and Sandy THANK YOU !!! You were so kind to donate your time and energy to help our kids out. Thank you!!!

We had such a great time. The DJ was awesome. He kept the party moving. I enjoyed so much the opportunity of this and to be able to share this event with Lizzie was so great. Next time you have a sock hop to plan... I have the people who can pull it off !!!

This is my Life

2008-08-03T19:25:00.000-07:00

I think this picture sums up my life. Friday I was getting the boys ready for school. I got them all bathed and dry. Hayden and Owen got dressed. Camden ran off before I could dress him. I picked up the mess in the bathroom. Quickly may I add. And this is what I came downstairs to.

Camden was stark naked, pizza box on his lap, eating right out of it. Notice the already eaten piece next to him as well as the half eaten pieces back in the box.
Again, you just have to laugh.

Old School Party Time

2008-08-02T20:13:00.000-07:00

Hayden’s Safari

Hayden turned 6 on July 19th. Normally we have a huge blow out celebration, this year we went Old School. He is really into jungle animals, so we went on a Safari. We invited a few kids from Church and school to the Barlow Jungle. It was a blast !!! I have to admit I was really, really nervous. But all went well. We made safari hats, went on an obstacle course through the jungle to bring supplies to the lion cub, gave bananas to the monkeys, had a bug toss, and had jungle snacks. Lane and I have never done the decorating thing to this extent before, but I had a blast transforming the house to make my sweet little man happy.

This was base camp. Here you found the live worms, dried ants, snake eggs, croc teeth and beetle wings. To wash it all down there was some snail slime. It is amazing what naming foods something different does to it. The kids ate it up.

The kids putting bugs on their hats.

Owen on the obstacle course. They had such a good time with this. The girls rocked this one. My nephew Jacob won, but the girls all came in pretty close to his time.

The cake. It was supposed to be a crocodile. The legs didn’t work so it turned into a snake. (Not my best work, but the kids enjoyed it, Hayden loved it.)

Wait, what's that sound?

2008-07-29T16:38:00.000-07:00

Something very strange is happening in my house right now. The kids (all 4)are playing a board game. I told them the TV was not to be turned on until after the family room and kitchen were cleaned and it is still not on. Hayden has found my Jack Johnson CD and is in love with the mellow vibe from it. So he turned it on while they were cleaning and immediately the fighting stopped. And now they are playing High School Musical Mystery Date. Laughing and acting how children should. Music to my ears. Both Jack and the kids.

Hayden's Heart is Working

2008-07-22T22:12:00.000-07:00

Today was Hayden's Cardiologist appointment. A couple of months ago, he got a really bad virus. We took him into the pediatrician and she heard a murmur. With the history of my family and heart problems I can say I was terrified. So, we went to Dr. Mayman's office. I was expecting this office jam packed with noisy people, snotty office staff, and a long wait. WOW was I WRONG !!! The office only had us in it, the staff was super sweet, and we were in and out in a half hour. He had an ultrasound and EKG and they were normal. He has an innocent murmur which is what we were hoping for. I mean if he has to have a heart murmur why not make it the simplest kind. This murmur only manifests itself when he is sick or run down. Other than that he is a REALLY HEALTHY kid.
Hayden is one of the sweetest children alive. He is the child that can meet you for the first time and with in minutes know your name, birthday and all your favorites. And remember everyone of them even if he doesn't see you for a year. Hayden was extremely nervous about going. I am a parent who believes in telling the child what is going on and what to expect. But he was still terrified. After the EKG, we went into the ultrasound room and the doctor came in. Hayden had big crocodile tears. The dr looked at him and said, "Are you scared? If your scared then I'm scared." He was wonderful. He explained everything to us and answered all of Hayden's questions. Dr. Mayman even took the time to explain to me what was wrong with my cousins little boy Carter. (I had never really understood it.) He was so amazing. So if any one needs a Pediatric Cardiologist, Dr. Mayman is the MAN !!!

Owen's Big Day

2008-07-20T21:22:00.000-07:00

Today was a big day for Owen, and for Lane and me. Owen gave a talk in Primary today. At the beginning of the year, we asked that Owen not be asked to speak, or give scriptures in Primary. We did not feel he needed to be subjected to any ridicule that might come from it. Let’s face it, even kids at Church can be mean. But my requests were ignored. So the postcard came in the mail a couple of weeks ago with Owen’s name and the talk circled and my heart sank. I talked to Lane and prayed about it and we decided to let him try. Most kids get so nervous they don’t give their own talks anyway, so I figured what the heck, let’s go for it. I searched for something he could do. Our theme this month is Missionary Work. As I looked through “The Friend” there was a cute little activity with the song “I Hope They Call Me on a Mission.” My prayers were answered. It was perfect. We practiced and practiced. And he stood up there like the Champion he is and gave that talk. What a difference has come to him since working with Mrs. Kelly. Our Primary President was so impressed, the progress that has been made in the past few months in remarkable. All I wanted to do was cry I was so over joyed. It was so beautiful to hear. Yes, he had to have me model the words but you could understand what he said. That gives me such hope.
About a year ago, I longed to hear I love you from him. He learned the sign and one night as he went to be he turned around and yelled at Lane and me and flashed the sign that meant so much but I still wanted to hear the words from my sweet little boy. Three months ago I still longed to hear that sweet sentence from him. About a month ago, I was blessed to hear it for the first time. The words “Mom I love you” never sounded so beautiful. (Now he uses it to try to get out of trouble. But I am happy he does.) And now he stood in front of the whole Primary and spoke. Such amazing progress, such exciting new experiences are just waiting for him. All we have to do is work.

Not a Single Mother

2008-07-17T21:27:00.001-07:00

My hat goes off to all of the women (and men) who are single parents. Lane has been gone for two weeks and I am SSOOO ready for him to be home. I have dealt with all of the ups and downs of the home front. The past two weeks have been an emotional roller coaster ride for our family and we have been apart to deal with it. I know I am the lucky one I get to hear the laughter and the kindness of the kids. Lane is alone in the hotel listening to the quiet and watching what he wants on the television. I know he would rather be home fighting the kids to go bed but at this time I would love to be the one at the Hilton relaxing watching Miss Congeniality on Lifetime. As you can see I have given up the fight for a few minutes of peace at the computer as Camden and Owen wrestle in my bedroom. I have tried everything short of tying them up to get them to stop. (I was told that was against the law, jk) Nights like this make me realize just how lucky I am to have the husband I do. He is not perfect, but I love him and miss him !!! Now back to the bedtime fight... Wish me luck.

Apraxia on Inside Edition - 2000

2008-07-17T21:26:00.001-07:00

Perception VS Reality

2008-07-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

Is what other people perceive of me actually who I am? After reading a new friend’s blog last week I started to think of how I perceive myself and if that is how others see me. Different people see me differently. My friends at school see me as the crazy mom of 4 who wants to be involved with everything, a woman who has an opinion on everything, someone who wants the best for everyone. (Especially my own children) Although most of them never see the frantic worried side of me, this is how I perceive myself also. My reality is I love being a mother and a wife. I love spending time at my children’s school and being involved with everything there. I love running from place to place with my kids. I love being the taxi. I love making dinner and having it on the table when Lane comes home. I love my house being clean even though it may be messy. I am not perfect, nor do I profess to be, but I try hard to make my family the best it can be. I think my friends see this side of me and this is my reality.
Yet I am troubled by the others in my life who really don’t have a clue as to what is happening in my family or in my life. But those people are the there in the front row passing judgment on me and about me. As I write this I now understand these people are not my friends and they truly don’t know me. As my new friend put it they are the “toxic people” in my life. I continue to worry what these people think of me and my children. I am consumed by the judgments they are passing on my family and myself when they do not know why decisions are being made as they are. They are the people who so quickly question why I may do something but don’t know the circumstance surrounding the decision nor do they care enough about me to what to understand either.
So why do I allow them to alter my reality? How do you become strong enough to just walk away from them? Do you tell them or just drift away? These are the questions I have been pondering.

New CCSD Employee

2008-07-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

It is official. I have been approved by CCSD and am a substitute. I have heard the horror stories of the process from friends that are subs but I can now testify how ridiculous it really was. When all was said and done I think I had seven different references sent to them. According to the last person I spoke with who was so wonderful, I had more than ample and "good" references to complete my file. I am so excited. I will start the next school year filling in for a good friend of mine while she bonds with her new bundle of joy. YEAH !!

Not much happening

2008-07-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

We have had a pretty boring few days. I think I kind of "checked out" last week. We ALL needed a break from the hectic go here, go there of our lives, so we took it. We did have a great time at the First Annual Barlow Family Olympics. Even though we were late. We were trying to get Lane ready for his trip. He is once again on the road for work. And so far no I have not run over any birds. (or anything else for that matter.) Fourth of July was a blast. The kids had a wonderful time swimming and hanging out with cousins. And of course had a wonderful time setting off the fireworks with Uncle Brandon. If you want to see pictures check out Sarah's Blog...http://sarahbarlow.blogspot.com/. There are a couple of cute pictures of the kids. And a couple not so cute pictures of me. (This is why I don't do swimsuits at this point.)
Saturday we took Lane to the airport bright and early. Then we just hung out. I cleaned... Which is what I will be doing again in a few minutes. Yesterday I actually braved Church with all four children by myself. I am very Happy to say we made it to ALL of it. I feel the need to apologize to the Berrett Family who we sat in front of. Camden had to narrate everything he did all through Sacrament. I am sorry to say I still find him funny. I was shocked actually at how well behaved the kids were. Last night we just vegged out and watch the new Hannah Montana and Wizards of Waverly Place. It was wonderful to have a nice quiet evening just us. Well that is what we have done for the past week. We start once again with the crazy life tomorrow. So I am sure something exciting will happen to tell you all. Until then, Take Care.
Amy

Camden and Food

2008-06-30T22:20:00.000-07:00

Camden loves to eat. He is a big boy, he eats a lot. He came to the right family because I love to cook and he will eat anything I make. Recently while grocery shopping, I decided to buy bologna. This is an interesting thing considering I am hooked on watching the BBC America show "You Are What You Eat." I must have watched a "Rugrats" cartoon sometime before this trip to the store because I kept thinking of fried bologna sandwiches. I don't think I have had one in fifteen years. Maybe longer. Anyways, I bought this bologna and that is what Owen, Camden and I had for lunch. I good ol' fried bologna sandwich with processed cheese. (crusts cut off too.) They loved them. So now we eat sandwiches alot for lunch. (Not only bologna.)
Camden's love for food does not stop there. While Lane was on his last trip, I ordered my typical Chinese take out. I order a meal and eat it for a few days while the kids load up on mac and cheese and pizza. This trip I ordered Mu Shu Chicken. (love it, Thank you Hannah Montana) I made my plate and sat down, and Camden got into the fridge, got the take out container, a fork and joined me for Chinese. It was one of the funniest things I had seen. There he sat with the Chinese take out container, eating directly out of it. He will eat what ever you are eating.
The question that came to me tonight was, Why is what is on my plate (or Lanes) better than what is on his? I made Mu Shu Chicken for dinner tonight, made him a plate, made myself the exact same plate, we sat down and he ate part of his with his mouth wide open came up saying "BITE, BITE" He ate mine and Lane's and left about 1/4 of his own. I just don't get it. But I love it.

The most horrible woman I have ever met.

2008-06-26T22:31:00.000-07:00

***WARNING ANGRY POST AHEAD ***
Today I met with the most callous, insensitive, careless woman. I am hoping most of what we call “supervisors” within the school district are not so out of touch with students and parents as Ms. Barton is. She is the Speech Language Coordinator for the Southeast Region of the school district. Big title, I know. She thinks so too. Unfortunately, she is someone who will be deciding what is best for my son.
We met today to discuss placement for Owen next year. He is not developmentally delayed. WE ALL KNOW THIS. The boy is smart, quick witted, strong willed but he can’t talk. After 45 minutes of speech therapy we rushed to the school to meet this woman to discuss our game plan. She was LATE!! How do you get lost going to a school you supervise? Doesn’t make much sense to me. But that is not the point. She was supposed to observe him in his classroom, with his teacher, within his comfort zone. That so did not happen. We were taken into the small speech office with a student speech therapist (his real one is on vacation) another total stranger and was supposed to perform for them. Owen performs for NO ONE! She barely looked over his file, did not ask about his diagnosis or any of his tests he has been through and proceeded to give me my option(s) for him. He can go to the all phonology program at Walker Elementary. I cannot go and observe the class she continued, because that is “Program Shopping.” Yeah’ that is what I am doing. I am shopping for somewhere to ship my child out of our comfort zone and away from me, just for the heck of it. I want this trial in life for him. (She has no clue) I can go and meet the teacher after Owen is enrolled in the new program. I DON’T THINK SO!!!! She then told me that if I didn’t like that my other option was to exit him from the program but continue speech therapy at the school for the ninety minutes a week. (It’s sounding better and better.) I knew what my options were going into the meeting but her telling me I cannot contact Walker or observe the other class is absolutely absurd. It is a public school, I am a tax payer. I can take a tour at anytime. Needless to say I was livid. As we exited the office, she then let me know I might want to think about putting all of Owen’s paper work in a three ring binder… I have all of his paperwork in a manila envelope that can be filed and found very easily. I simply smiled and told her “You can’t file a three ring binder.” WHAT SNOT!!
After I calmed down I asked our Assistant Principal what my options for viewing the school was. She was appalled. She let me know that I need to just call the school and ask when a good time to come out and look around is. If they say I cannot come and see the school I am to tell her and she will handle the situation. She also let me know that before any IEPs are done I need to meet the teacher because if Owen is not compatible it is pointless to send him. (Pretty funny, even she knows what a strong personality he has.)
So this is what I am up against. An out of touch woman who thinks she has power. I have a feeling things are going to get REALLY UGLY!!! And we wonder what is wrong with our schools. District Supervisors who don’t have a clue on what the best thing for a student is.

By the way if any one knows her, send her the link to my blog.

Crazy Days Makes One Crazy Mom

2008-06-25T21:55:00.000-07:00

All year I have not minded that my children are on different tracks. I, trying to be an optimist, thought it was great to have Owen on a different track so I can spend a little one on one time with him during his track break and the same for Hayden. Owen went back to school on Tuesday. Hayden and Lizzie "tracked out" last Friday. I thought all weekend how nice it would be to just have to take Owen to school and not worry about car pooling, honor choir and all of the PTA responsibitlies. This week has been soo crazy that I would gladly go back to my three to four trips a day to school. I have gotten a taste of what life with four children is really going to be this week. Already this week we have had two dentist appointments at two different offices for two different children, tennis in 110 degrees, speech therapy, DARE graduation (part two), PTA board meeting, party planning brainstorming meeting, a birthday party, Girls Achievement, Owen's school and trying to potty train Camden. Not to mention unexpected visitors staying, hosting a dinner party we didn't plan on and grocery shopping and preparing for Lane leaving for two and a half weeks. IT IS ONLY WEDNESDAY !!!! The rest of the week doesn't look any better. I think my family will finally have a night together on Friday. So if you see me and I don't say hello this week, don't take it personally. I probably am thinking of my next task...

"Camp Rock" Rocked !!!

2008-06-20T23:27:00.000-07:00

"CAMP ROCK" ROCKED !!!

Lizzie had a GREAT party. She invited a few of her friends over. This is not your typical "Tween Girl Group." They are so sweet and fun. Most of which also suffer from OJD (Obessive Jonas Disorder). Wow did they have fun. It was a great time. I love to hear the laughter. Trust me I heard it tonight. Seven 10-11 year old girls watching "The JONAS BROTHERS." I think they surpass New Kids on the Block and are nearing the Beatles. Both talent wise and popularity. And I love New Kids. Nonetheless it was a great movie, not quite HSM but wonderful message and the girls got it. Be yourself and follow your dreams. I hope you all check out the movie.

By Popular Demand

2008-06-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Hayden at the Father's Day Round Up - Mrs. Aguero's Kindergaten Class.(she's amazing too.)

Hayden's first day of Tennis... In June in Las Vegas... HE LOVED IT !!!

Owen Loves his transformers !!!

Camden Hawk... He loves the camera !!!

Camden and Daddy...

Lizzie and her AMAZING teacher, Mrs. Bernick. Honestly how many teachers go to baseball games and dance recitals...

Dance Recital 2008

Lizzie and her new Idol - Selena Gomez... (she was a sweetheart)

A Great Group of Sisters

2008-06-17T21:24:00.000-07:00

Tonight Lane kicked me out of the house... I have been extremely anti social lately. I guess it has been for a while now. I am okay if my kids are with me, I can hide behind them. You know, talk about them, laugh with them, those situations I am okay with. I have a good friend whom I am okay talking to. We'll go to lunch or something, we talk about everything. But I don't do social events anymore. A few weeks ago I was invited to go to a game night with a group of ladies. I was so excited to go and then when the time came, I made up an excuse and didn't go. It actually caused an argument between Lane and I, because I wanted to go but didn't. And I don't do anything without the kids and I need to. SO last night we were talking and I mentioned we were going to have our Ward's Enrichment night. It sounded so fun. We were having a progressive dinner and I was thinking I might want to go. He immediately asked what time he needed to be home for me to go. Then I started thinking about it. I really don't know many people in my ward. We moved in last summer and I started substituting Primary and then I got my calling. So I have not been with the adults really at all. The panic set in. I almost started hyperventilating in the car. But it was set, Lane was determined I was going... And I went. I had a wonderful time. I have a ward of the most amazing women. I am so lucky to have moved into this ward. We have all felt so welcome and like we were supposed to be here from the first week we were in the ward, but tonight just reaffirmed this. I know there is a reason we moved last summer. It was not really a planned thing. It all just happened so smoothly. We found the house, fell in love with it and the rest is history. We were so happy to have a ward with wonderful girls who Lizzie loves and she can bond with and go to middle school and hopefully high school with who are strong and beautiful spirits. I have boys for Hayden to play with. And girls too... We love our girls for Hayden too. But they accept him for the touchy, quirky kid that he is. My sweet Owen has a class who even at three and four years old, rally around him and encourage him to try to speak. My wonderful friends in the ward who don't really understand what Apraxia is but see the progress being made and also support and encourage us. We are so Blessed to have such a great Church Family. Tonight just really made the choices Lane and I have made feel right again. So I thanked my family last week and now I am thanking my Ward Family for just being SOOO Awesome. Thanks for welcoming my family into yours.

Thank you to my family

2008-06-12T22:36:00.000-07:00

Extended Family
I have a brother and a sister who throughout our childhood and adult life are two of the most important people in my life. They are the two people in this world outside my husband and children who mean the most to me. I cannot put into words how important my relationship with them is. They are each married. So I have an amazing brother in law, who is an amazing fahter. And a sister in law who is probably one of my best friends. (Even though she may not know it.) I have aunts and uncles and cousins who I have been blessed with who I keep in touch with. Even if it is via email or blog. I love being close to my family. I have grandparents on both sides who are amazing. My Grandpa Lloyd is one of the most perfect people in this world. And if I am lucky enough to be like my Grandma Myrna I will be very happy. My Grandpa and Grandma Valentine have really been great. They have unfortunately had to be the ones to make the effort in our relationship but they have and are truly sweet, caring and supportive. I have my Aunt Dene who was my best friend and saw me through a lot of tough times as a teenager, and an even tougher time through my wedding. I knew she was always there for me and I could always go and talk to her… and I still can. I love my family. My children have been blessed with this extended family… So to my family who is reading this, know this, you are very special to me. I am grateful everyday for an extended family like you. I know right now we are all dealing with our own things… Just know you are always in my prayers and I love you all. Thank you for being so supportive and kind throughout my life. After a night like tonight, I just wanted to count my blessings and thank you all for being my family. I love you all !!!

Apraxia

2008-06-08T19:00:00.000-07:00

Owen has Childhood Apraxia Syndrome. He was diagnosed almost one month ago after three years of wondering and searching for the answer of what was wrong. Apraxia is a neurological disorder where his brain sends the signals of what he wants to say to his mouth but it gets mixed up and he can't make his mouth move the right way. He is moderately severe in his disorder. We have a very long road ahead of us to make him talk. He is seeing a private speech therapist as well as his speech therapy in school. He should be able to talk but he may never be able to say certain words. If anyone wants to learn more about Childhood Apraxia check out this website... Apraxia-Kids.org They have amazing information about what our family will be dealing with.

An Owen Update

2008-06-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

Tuesday kicks off our fourth week of Private speech therapy. WOW. Lane and I see a huge difference already. But after teaching the Sunbeams today, I am wondering if anyone else can understand him. Owen spends thirty minutes twice a week working with a sweet speech pathologist named Mrs. Kelly. We have to remember he has been working with a speech therapist since he was 30 months old. At school we are working on three syllable words. Mrs. Kelly started him off with vowel sounds. I was a little concerned to say the least. I went to Owen’s school speech therapist and she reassured me that we needed to give it a chance and am I glad we did. He quickly moved to linking two vowels together and now we are moving on to consonants strung with vowel sounds ie: Bay, Bow, Bee… So progress is being made. He will also voluntarily speak. He like to tell little stories. We have to really listen, he still uses some different sounds instead of words but he is initiating the talking. I just really look forward to hearing what is in that little man’s head.
We also got his assessment back from Dr. Loo at UCLA. I just have to say once again that man was so amazing. You just knew he knew what he was talking about. So… Owen is verbally challenged. He tested at 70 months in the critically thinking areas and visual reception areas. So yes, he is pretty smart in that brain of his. It also says “He is a handsome boy.” Like we needed a doctor to tell us that.
So that is where Owen is now. He is on track break and when he goes back to school he will be in speech therapy for two and a half hours a week. Please just keep praying that he continues to make the progress he is. With Apraxia this is not normal… But when has any of our family been normal.

What Happened to the Fun?

2008-06-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

I have been questioning what happened to letting our kids have fun in life. I am a pretty competitive person. I do know this. Hayden played coach pitch baseball this past season and I think I learned more that he did. At the beginning of the season I was right out there on the field yelling and correcting and redirecting him. It was a fight to get him to practices he hated going. His coach was amazing. So patient. And really was teaching them the fundamentals of the sport. At the first game, I sat there with the two very sweet mom's I had just met. One is very relaxed. Her son is a great player and loves the game. The seconds son is much like Hayden, really did not want to be there at the game. Just wanted to play with the other boys. I watched as the second mom from the bleachers corrected, yelled and redirected her son. And it hit me. THIS IS WHAT I LOOK LIKE !!!! Wow. If my parent acted like that I would have hated baseball too. So it took ALOT of effort but I stopped. I did approach Hayden if he started rough housing on the baseball field but other than that, I left it up to the coach. He started to love the game. He started practicing at home, he was ready for his games and practices. He had fun with it. I let him have fun and he loved it. Now it is talent show time at the elementary school. Liz is dancing with a few friends. And I have tried to take the "carefree non competitive have fun and do a good job" attitude with it. BUT the other moms are crazy with it. At Justice these would be considered one of the "Psycho Cheer Mom" types. They are all crazy about what the girls are wearing right down to the socks and how their hair will be done. For the record, any of you know, Lizzie's hair does NOT curl. And yet tomorrow morning she and I will be up at 6 am with the straight iron trying to curl her hair for a talent show that is held in their music class. Why can't moms just let the kids have fun instead of stressing them out because they might not be perfect. I have decided that I am going to just let me kids be the best they can be and if it isn't THE BEST, it's okay.

Hand me downs

2008-05-31T21:02:00.000-07:00

Hand me Downs
I have been blessed with three wonderful, crazy, full of life boys. I have two of the cutest nephews that my boys think could walk on water. Jacob and Joshua are the coolest of the cool. Anything they do, Hayden and Owen want to do too. (I hope they continue to be the sweet wonderful boys they are.) So it is always a great thing when Aunt Carey has a bag of clothes for them. Usually they all fit Hayden and Owen is left out. That is the natural order… Jacob gives to Josh who gives to Hayden who hands down to Owen who if we are lucky passes it on to Camden. Well, the boys spent Friday at Aunt Carey’s so I could chaperone a field trip. (which will be a different story when I mellow out.) Excited does not describe Owen’s emotional state when he got two bags of hand me downs from Jacob and Josh. Hayden was at school, so Owen got dibs… In one of the bags was a black Boston Red Sox hat, a couple pairs of swim trunks, and some pjs. The other bag was filled with shoes. As we waited for Hayden and Lizzie to get out of school Owen took everything out of the bags and took ownership of the hat and a pair of soccer sandles. Mind you Owen where’s a size 11 and the sandles are a size 1. The hat fits perfect though. Well this was Friday at about 3 pm. It is now almost 9 on Saturday and the sandles and hat only came off long enough to put on his baseball team hat and baseball shoes. Yes he slept in them, he napped in them and he has them on now in bed. Friday when we got home from school, Owen put on a pair of the swim trunks too. So to go to our Ward picnic, Owen wore a white t, swim trunks that are two sizes too big, sandles that are two sizes too big, and a Bo Sox hat. And we had a great time. His little girlfriend still held his hand even though he looked like a clown… Just gotta love hand me downs.

You just have to laugh...

2008-05-24T21:56:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just have to laugh. Becuase if you actually sit down to think about how crazy life is you might actually go crazy. Camden has decided to catch a cold. Those of you who know me, know I don't really do well with sick kids. I worry way too much. Since Owen was little and his bouts with asthma, I worry. So I have the breathing machine on my nightstand with the abuterol right next to ready to go at a moments notice... And Camden right next to me, or if he has it his way sleeping on me, so I can make sure he is breathing okay. Needless to say, I don't think I have slept solid since Tuesday. So Lane left late last night for a quick business trip to Florida. Owen, Camden and I went to the grocery store today. We had a really good time suprisingly. We had a relaxing outing. Liz and Hayden stayed home, they stayed in their PJ's most of the day. So on our way home today, I was talking to my mother on the phone, driving up the hill in a beautiful light rain. As I said before, it was very relaxing. Normally I probably would be stressing out over the cost of groceries, the fact I had to pull over to put Camden back in his seat and the fact that no matter how much I clean, I ALWAYS have toys everywhere in my house... But I wasn't. Owen was singing, my mother and I were laughing over something silly, and Camden was laughing at everything. When a bird decided to fly in front of the car. I thought is was going to make it passed but it didn't. I hit it. I HIT A BIRD. The bird never fell. It was stuck in the grill of the car... GROSS!!! So then it hit me, I was going to have to take a dead bird out of the grill of my car. That is totally not something I would ever have to do. Lane does that kind of stuff, I am lucky he does all that gross stuff... Well I got home, opened the garage and went to get he boys out of the car and the bird was not dead and it flew IN to my garage. All the way in to where the water heater is. I left the door open for a while in hopes it would fly itself away, but it hasn't. It is in my garage. Everytime I open the door from the house into the garage it flies. And I freak out. So it will wait. What else can I do but laugh? (and wait)

Never thought I'd Do It

2008-05-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I never thought I would do it. I really did not think I would ever be the blogging type. Then life happened. When I started planning our trip to UCLA with Owen, I realized this might be a great median for everyone to stay up to date on his progress. Then I thought, this might be the way to stay up to date with friends and family period. Life is so crazy now I need help to keep to touch with everyone. So here I am. My life isn't too exciting, but it is pretty fun !!! Love ya
Amy