tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85517086419393199792012-01-25T07:05:37.196-08:00Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.comBlogger1501100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-74591714232728873922012-01-17T14:26:00.000-08:002012-01-17T14:47:08.533-08:00

This blog post is brought to you by the number as in:Three MusketeersThree Blind MiceThree Mile IslandThree Dog NightThree StoogesAND as in the number of kids living in our house by the end of July. That's right! We're expecting baby #3...due July 24.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-80455578367814368952012-01-09T13:54:00.000-08:002012-01-09T16:43:38.697-08:00

Oops...trying to get caught up and realized I didn't post my monthly collage for December!1 - A frozen, foggy, frosty morning out the front door.2 - Seth is spelling more and more, and I love seeing what he comes up with. Here he's spelling Star Wars: "Stowr Wrs." Before I taught him how to spell Lydia's name, he spelled it "Lideu." :-)3 - Reading the morning paper over breakfast...the Toys R Us

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-67929168876490904312011-11-13T18:22:00.001-08:002011-11-13T18:36:00.118-08:00

1 - I got another 5-pound award at Weight Watchers, a total of 16.6 altogether. Who doesn't want to start off their Saturday morning at 7 am with applause and praise?? I was so excited that I allowed my photo to be taken post-workout/pre-shower.2 - Cozy Saturday morning cartoons!3 - Lydia trying out her cupcake panties. We've all been relying too much on the pull-ups, so we're being more vigilant

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-10315595639428197062011-11-12T20:53:00.000-08:002011-11-12T21:01:39.043-08:00

You wouldn't know it from the looks of today, where the high temperature MAYBE reached a wet and drizzly 40 degrees, but Thursday was a gloriously sunny and warm fall day. How often can you play at the playground in Washington in November??Some people aren't too fond of raking leaves, but I quite enjoy it. I think this was my 4th time this season raking our front yard, and the falling leaves

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-87313825969286796412011-11-12T20:37:00.000-08:002011-11-12T20:50:17.706-08:00

Among the myriad of Halloween parties and fun things to do, our little goblins had fun just wearing their costumes around the house more than anything. Oh, and getting candy too, of course.Seth's on a Spiderman kick, if you couldn't tell from his birthday. So, I put the word out, and Gerilyn came through with a costume that's too little for her kids but just right for Seth. He didn't wear the

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-20477749060247594752011-11-12T20:23:00.001-08:002011-11-12T20:36:24.873-08:00

Seth's preschool class went on their annual field trip to Kelsey Creek Farm last month. Lydia got to participate too, since I wasn't going to even attempt to carry her in the backpack this time. The kiddos learned about different animals, got to pet a few of them, helped sweep and add wood shavings to the stalls, and took home their very own pumpkin. Farmer Jayne is the best! "I just fed that cow

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-62561193424371556832011-11-12T20:16:00.001-08:002011-11-12T20:22:04.969-08:00

Seth just finished a session of Renton Rookie Athletics. He spent the last 6 weeks learning how to play soccer. They worked on dribbling, trapping, passing, shooting and heading. He really loved it,so I think we're a go for soccer season next year. I don't know any parents who weren't smiling watching 10 3-5-year-olds try a scrimmage. The moment the coach threw the ball into the game, all you

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-13854283574133951962011-11-12T16:19:00.000-08:002011-11-12T17:20:01.620-08:00

September 26th marked Seth's FIFTH birthday. And what a birthday it was, as in 3 parties stretched over 5 days. While we were at quilt retreat, Terilyn made a giant chocolate chip cookie for his cake. After a nice evening stroll, we had cookie and ice cream and presents from Grandma and Grandpa and awesome aunts. Yes there's something on his nose. It's a little scratch from when he fell out of

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-27920641682821826312011-11-12T16:05:00.000-08:002011-11-12T16:19:28.319-08:00

OK, so school has been in session for, oh, 2 months, but since I'm such an awesome mom who's always on top of it, I waited until now to post photos. I just like to keep my readers in suspense. :-)Seth is in Pre-K at the same school he went last year. He loves Pied Piper and his teachers Mrs. Richards and Mrs. Stephens, and he's happy to have another fun year with them.Wouldn't want Lydia to feel

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-30903208162609194702011-11-07T18:13:00.001-08:002011-11-07T18:41:32.914-08:00

OK, way back in September, the kids and I went on our annual trip to Loa, Utah for Mom's quilt retreat. I'm always impressed at how she pulls everything together and makes it such a wonderful time for everyone. All us girls have to do is show up and cook! And this year, big brother Darrell was initiated into the Retreat Laborer Hall of Fame. :-) It's always fun to see all the quilting ladies, and

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-16825799541386929602011-10-16T15:47:00.000-07:002011-10-16T16:08:43.296-07:00

1 - This might not look like much, but it's the best crock pot steel-cut oats with cranberries and REAL maple syrup all the way from New Hampshire. I could eat this every day (and I did too!).2 - Sewing up Lydia's Halloween costume.3 - I made a potty chart for Lydia, and until now it's been hit and miss. But the day I took these photos, the light bulb went off, and she's been going potty

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-4576565291837641292011-10-09T10:35:00.001-07:002011-10-10T09:30:57.965-07:00

Amid the pouring rain and cloudy skies, it seems summer was ages ago. I was looking through some photos and wanted to bid a fond farewell to blue skies and pleasant temperatures.Newcastle Beach Park in August. One of the last, if not THE last, beach-friendly-weather day of the year.A perfectly un-crowded, sunny day at Woodland Park Zoo with friends.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-24749290147473599462011-09-13T14:10:00.000-07:002011-09-13T14:23:10.797-07:00

1 - Early morning running date with a good friend and the Cedar River Trail. A great way to start a Monday!2 - I learned last week what this bug is. What I thought was a giant disgusting mutant mosquito is called a crane fly. They hang out on the outside of our windows and screens all day. The worst they can do to us is eat up our grass when they're in their larvae/worm stage in the ground. That

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-373728960880567472011-08-29T12:40:00.000-07:002011-08-29T12:52:44.739-07:00

Lately whenever we're driving in the car, Seth notices all of the "no _____ allowed" signs. And he can guess what each of them means and is usually right. Like this one:Or this one: And this one too: You get the idea. So, he made a sign of his own. One morning while I was upstairs making the beds, Lydia had taken her diaper off herself. Yikes! At least there were no accidents. When I came back

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-17393334607637097382011-08-13T11:39:00.001-07:002011-08-13T11:52:00.631-07:00

1 - Exercise is more fun with these guys. This is mid-jumping jack. 2 - Caspar Babypants concert in Tukwila. 3 - Ivy on the freeway overpass. I can't help but imagine these will be vibrant reds and oranges in just a couple of months. 4 - It's 1:00 in the afternoon and 69 degrees. There's been plenty of complaints around these parts about the cooler-than-average summer we're having, but none

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-47725692473223105552011-08-12T09:24:00.000-07:002011-08-12T09:37:30.300-07:00

You know it's August, it's summer and it's Seafair when the U.S. Navy roars into town on the Blue Angels. The I-90 bridge is completely shut down during the air show so people can walk out onto it to watch. This year, we went too! There's nothing that can describe the powerful rumble of these jets as they fly a few hundred feet over your head. Just trust me that it was AWE.SOME! Here they come!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-34112275699804589552011-08-12T09:16:00.000-07:002011-08-12T09:22:06.823-07:00

Time: 3:30 pm. Quiet time was spent rearranging today's outfit. That thing around his waist is his shirt. His legs are through the arm holes with his pants pulled up over the top. Goof off! Time: 6:15 pm. Not even enough energy to get down from the table. Being a kid is exhausting!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-55655079749437239112011-08-12T09:04:00.000-07:002011-08-12T09:15:38.378-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I decided we needed to get out and see something pretty. So we spent a couple of hours at the Bellevue Botanical Gardens walking around and having a picnic lunch. Playing in the water is a must. Knocking to see if the hobbit is home. This girl has the squintiest, cheesiest smile - I love it! A few of my favorites. I love summer with these little people!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-62549544653709752622011-08-10T21:40:00.001-07:002011-08-10T21:59:40.611-07:00

Last month my birthday was on a Sunday, so Saturday was our day to get out and have some fun. Seth is a game tester for a creative little company that makes awesome board games, and when the game is fixed, refined and manufactured, they have a release party for all the testers. This was the day, so we drove into Seattle, had some fun with the game creators, and walked away with two free games

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-8565017885114617962011-08-10T21:26:00.000-07:002011-08-10T21:37:43.977-07:00

Last month my friend Deborah and I took Seth and Lydia and her nephews for a hike to Anti-Aircraft Peak on Cougar Mountain. The weather was cool and a little damp, and the trail was almost entirely ours. Lydia stayed in the backpack almost the whole time without trying to launch herself out the top, and all the kids entertained themselves on the hike watching out for slugs and caterpillars.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-18784054687338725892011-07-21T09:12:00.001-07:002011-07-21T09:56:07.901-07:00

The last stop on our trip to the south was a few days in the VERY south - to the beach! We drove from San Antonio to Corpus Christi, then took a short ferry ride to Port Aransas. What a charming little town, and we went at just the right time, just before the crowds of Memorial Day weekend. We stayed in a pretty incredible beach house, fully equipped and furnished with no detail untouched. I

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-62437593286165185672011-07-20T22:32:00.000-07:002011-07-20T23:12:00.092-07:00

After graduation festivities, we all headed south to San Antonio. Always a must-see is the Alamo. Then to the River Walk for a boat ride and some delicious Texas barbecue! Boy cousins all smiling so innocently, right?I love how Lydia will try just about anything. She's listening to the "bird guy" and petting his beautiful parrot, or cockatoo, or whatever it is. Let's just call it the green

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-62336931363093707632011-07-20T22:09:00.000-07:002011-07-20T22:30:01.295-07:00

I remember it being May, then I blinked and woke up to today, July 20. So much to catch up on! We took a super fun trip to Texas back in May for Matt's mom's graduation from University of Texas. It was that and so much more!Two happy, clean little kids in a big, comfy hotel bed......end up like this in the morning!Who needs toys when you have your fun cousin and a cardboard box in Grandma and

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-37799027892829703142011-07-12T18:58:00.001-07:002011-07-13T13:56:28.935-07:00

1 - Starting the day off right building a train track with Curious George on in the background.2 - I took the kids to the $1 kids' movies at The Landing. It was the first "real" movie experience for both of them. Their review? Two little thumbs up for "The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything."3 - I probably need to get a life, but I'm so excited about my new iron I got for my birthday. And yes, it's

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-36238572217133240582011-06-16T14:12:00.000-07:002011-06-16T14:24:23.896-07:00

What a week! Things are starting to get back to normal, and the sun is out, so we're a happy household.1 - Starting out the day right and keeping up with the 30-day Book of Mormon challenge.2 - All ready for church!3 - I'm getting impatient to see my peonies open up...they're almost there!4 - It's kind of dark in this picture, but in Nursery, all the kids had a note taped to them that said "I

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-48375252827676310782011-06-06T09:09:00.001-07:002011-06-06T10:57:33.121-07:00

Last month, Seth's preschool class went to Gene Coulon Park for a "Wetland Walk" where they explore the vegetation and animals along the trail. Lydia and I got to go too, and it was a perfect day to be outdoors!What's down there?~Lydia does whatever big brother's doing.~Perfectly calm water at the Renton sailing club.~We didn't see much wildlife other than some seagulls and this little guy

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-68586723126115206362011-05-17T14:23:00.000-07:002011-06-18T14:14:25.886-07:00

To anyone who lives in, or who will BE in, Utah at the end of June, here's a happy reason to take a little road trip. Ever hear of a little town called Loa? Well, it's just about the cutest little mountain-farming town you'll ever visit. And on Saturday, June 25, there's this to check out:You can read around the outside of the flyer about all the wonderful goods that will be on display for sale.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-62968073537437666692011-05-13T14:36:00.001-07:002011-05-13T15:13:01.734-07:00

1 - Banana pancakes for breakfast. My giant pizza cutter makes quick work of cutting them up!2 - My Mother's Day roses are in full bloom!3 - OK we're a little bit white trash, but the funniest part of this isn't that Lydia's running around with just her diaper, but check out where she's wearing the safety goggles.4 - Making something cute for an upcoming baby shower.5 - Music time at the church.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-4584430711917600362011-05-09T14:13:00.000-07:002011-05-09T14:43:49.077-07:00

This year, our Easter celebrations stretched out over 2 weeks! On the 15th, Seth's preschool had an Easter party before they were off for Spring Break. There was an egg hunt, Easter crafts, and of course, treats too.Our friend Addie had her birthday party the Friday before Easter at the park, and there was an egg hung, bunny hop races, a craft and more treats. Yay for parties!At our house, we

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-60452261563423079282011-04-13T13:14:00.001-07:002011-04-13T15:44:08.056-07:00

1 - Story time at the library. Drew does the best puppet shows, and he's got quite a fan base. That place was packed! 2 - Gorgeous chartreuse blossoms on our maple trees. 3 - Nice day for playing outside and digging holes in the garden boxes. 4 - I finished it today! This is the completed quilt top for Lydia's bed. Now I just have to figure out what to do on the back, and it'll be ready to quilt.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-91877228264633524542011-04-09T22:30:00.000-07:002011-04-09T22:30:01.535-07:00

The other day, we brought Matt's lunch to him at work. While we were in the car waiting for him, a woman went into his office building, resulting in this brief conversation: Seth: Mom, what is that lady doing?Me: It looks like she's going back to work.Seth: Hey, girls don't go to work! Only dads do!What do I say to that? All I said in response was, "Both mommies and daddies go to work, just like

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-9884239857302368292011-03-29T20:35:00.000-07:002011-03-30T20:42:49.980-07:00

It's been two weeks since Lydia turned two, but I haven't posted simply because it's been difficult to choose just a few photos from the 200+ ones our talented friends, the Teeples, took for us. Can't thank you enough! Lydia enjoys looking at animal books, and she always points out the sheep and says "baa!" So, her birthday party was themed around sheep. It was a Monday night, so her friends

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-35633177226149390632011-03-14T13:24:00.000-07:002011-03-14T13:38:59.937-07:00

It's hard to believe my last post was 12 of 12 for February. I'll do better at posting more often. I've got some pictures and a story to tell from February! Anyway, here's this month's collage:1 - No matter the time of day, Lydia loves to brush her teeth. I took the kids to the dentist last week, and they both have beautiful pearly whites!2 - Making spinach salad for brunch.3 - I thought I'd

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-29205686536779607552011-02-12T22:17:00.000-08:002011-02-12T22:39:48.110-08:00

1 - The usual scene at the breakfast table...today it was Cheerios mixed with Chex mixed with Honey Bunches of Oats.2 - I went to a fun birthday breakfast for a good friend and had to hustle it back home for a Relief Society committee meeting here. I'm speeding just a tad (try 70 in a 50 zone).3 - I was surprised with an early Valentine's gift from my sweet husband.4 - It's hard to tell from the

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-29523194361297145182011-02-10T16:41:00.000-08:002011-02-10T17:10:39.563-08:00

Last week Seth's preschool class had a field trip to the Museum of Flight and participated in the "Little Aviators" program. They learn all about different parts of an airplane, how to steer it on the ground and in the air, and even what color airplane fuel is (blue - I didn't know that!). Seth and his friends Russell and Trey. I told them this plane shoots bullets and missiles, and at first

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-30119483107453136042011-01-19T22:27:00.000-08:002011-01-19T22:31:39.039-08:00

From our family to yours, we hope 2011 brings joy, success and choice blessings to all our friends and family. Love, Matt, Jen, Seth and Lydia

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-7300572054011714072011-01-19T22:02:00.001-08:002011-01-19T22:27:17.495-08:00

Tonight's the night I'm finally catching up and putting a few photos of a fun, relaxing Christmas. We drove over to my sister's house in Cheney (near Spokane), and Mom and Dad drove up from Utah. It's fun to get away and just play games, watch movies, eat the best food, and all that good stuff!My niece Amanda spent all day making not one, but two, buche de Noel cakes complete with little woodland

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-36299433129868843192011-01-19T21:34:00.000-08:002011-01-19T22:00:00.731-08:00

After the Santa fiasco and with bellies full of Wendy's goodness, we attended Seth's preschool Christmas program. I didn't get many photos because I was video taping a bunch of it, but here he is sitting by his friend Sophie before the program. They all sang so enthusiastically, and their performance was rewarded with cookies and punch afterward.So, the dramatic conclusion to our Santa Story 2010

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-85607344586327179152011-01-19T21:09:00.001-08:002011-01-19T21:34:16.403-08:00

In keeping with last year's Santa post, another narration for you to enjoy:Lydia: I'm feeling a little suspicious about this. I recognize the house behind us...and not in a good way.Seth: Yay! We're here to see Santa! I've been waiting for this all day!~~Lydia: Aha! I was right! I've been here before, and I still don't like it!Seth: I got to the door and refused to go in. Santa's looking at me in

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-52741143409131426112011-01-12T22:31:00.001-08:002011-01-12T22:56:09.607-08:00

I know I have Christmas blogging to catch up on, but first I'm excited to start a project called 12 of 12. My friend Kelsie heard about it here, and she did it last year. Basically, on the 12th of each month, take 12 photos to document your day. I didn't think I had enough going on in my life during a typical day to document it (or the photography skills to do any of it justice), but the more I

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-56875072357027108002010-12-16T23:25:00.000-08:002010-12-16T23:35:42.379-08:00

We like to make it a family outing, complete with dinner, when we go to see Santa every year (post coming soon on that). We like to go to IHOP for the occasion, but with Seth's preschool program (post coming soon on that too) that same night and time running short, we opted for Wendy's. Seth's kid's meal came with THE most complicated toy I've seen. There were 36 seperate pieces and two pages of

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-9106957009911436532010-12-09T23:46:00.000-08:002010-12-09T23:46:00.303-08:00

Years ago I bought a little wooden Christmas stool at an after-holiday sale as a fun addition to our decorations. Then along came kids and it's become tradition to have them sit on it for photos each year so we can see just how much they've grown. Seth's first Christmas 2006 (3 months old):Christmas 2010:Lydia's first Christmas 2009 (9 months old):Christmas 2010:

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-24426733126836823032010-12-08T23:31:00.001-08:002010-12-08T23:46:07.948-08:00

Yes, these are a few of my very, very, very favorite things. We don't get snow here very often, but when we do, like what happened just before Thanksgiving, it takes me back to a childhood of puffy coats and moon boots, inner tubing (Is it "inner" or "inter"? Anyway, you know what I mean) and hot chocolate, thermal unders and the familiar *crunch*crunch* underfoot. Between waking up from naps and

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-66992666246770099162010-11-19T21:29:00.000-08:002010-11-19T21:29:00.235-08:00

Last week Seth's good friend Ty (and my good friend Kristen) invited us as their guests to the Seattle Children's Museum. Thanks, guys! What a fun place to go on a cold day, have fun and maybe even learn a thing or two. I'm all for exposing kids to other museums as well, but it's nice to not have to worry about them touching things or running around. At this one, it's encouraged! Checking her

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-14314940924103502532010-11-18T21:06:00.000-08:002010-11-18T21:06:00.570-08:00

What a fun Halloween we had this year! The Monday before, we carved pumpkins for Family Home Evening. Each year I get pretty excited about this, but after cleaning and carving one, I'm done. So, we carved the one we got from the farm and decorated the other small ones from our garden with stickers. That's my kind of pumpkin "carving"! .Seth grossed out by pumpkin guts:. Lydia, aka Miss

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-5286317432367278862010-11-17T14:36:00.000-08:002010-11-17T14:40:11.440-08:00

We're celebrating our one-year "blogiversary" over at Praiseworthy this week.Check it out for some giveaways, insights, ideas and inspiration!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-33102893713526750362010-11-15T09:05:00.000-08:002010-11-15T16:42:07.052-08:00

Seth's preschool took a trip to Kelsey Creek Farm last month to get up close with the animals, and Lydia and I tagged along. Thanks to Cortney and Trisha for the pictures...this mom forgot to bring her camera!The whole class:Kids lined up to watch Joy the pig eat her lunch:Mrs. Richards helping Seth pet Gus the pony:Farmer Jane put the kids right to work, bringing buckets of sawdust shavings into

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-46328984842193189432010-11-06T22:03:00.000-07:002010-11-06T23:03:55.311-07:00

Seth turned 4 on the 26th of September. We had just returned home from Loa and the quilt retreat two days earlier, and we decided to do have another pancake breakfast party like when he turned two. I had the idea of an airplane theme, and I asked a flight attendant on the way home if they had extra barf bags (unused, of course ;-P) that I could have for goodie bags at the party. She said, "

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-64598160833713210332010-11-01T21:01:00.000-07:002010-11-01T22:03:55.901-07:00

This year was an especially fun Mountain Valley Quilt Retreat. I've documented this event before, but I've never shown the backdrop or location of this fun yearly get-away. This old barn across the street from my parents' home was renovated into a lodge, and this is where the quilters stay. And I love that playground right there...that's one of the old-school metal slides that is steep and

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-38409544032369391932010-10-25T21:46:00.000-07:002010-10-25T22:05:41.491-07:00

OK, so we didn't go to Old McDonald's farm, but we sang that song almost the whole way there. Where is "there?" Why, the farm of Brother Call, aka Seth and Lydia's third grandpa from church. No animals on this farm, other than cows grazing in the distant field and a horse next door. But there's plenty to do.We've been promising for a while to bring the kids out to Brother Call's Enumclaw farm

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-27963995903084097202010-10-20T20:53:00.001-07:002010-10-20T21:07:34.927-07:00

September 13th was Seth's first day of preschool. Lydia felt left out of the excitement, so she pulled out the Winnie the Pooh backpack and posed too, and Seth was happy to oblige. He goes to school Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for 2 hours in the morning. That's not very long, but on the first day, I kept looking at the clock wondering if it was time to go get him yet. Lydia seemed to be a

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-72692332242755647692010-10-19T21:15:00.000-07:002010-10-19T21:19:50.622-07:00

On the last real summer-like day of the year, we went with some friends to a nearby splash park. What perfect conditions! Warm sun, good friends, small crowds (older kids were back in school), picnic on the grass, and fun times!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-87359954168416131342010-10-18T21:11:00.000-07:002010-10-19T08:40:18.395-07:00

Wow, it's only taken 3 years of blogging to reach our 100th post! Ha!.Matt's parents came from Texas for a visit in August - yay for visitors! We packed up and went camping at Dash Point State Park. One of many things on our list we wanted to do, we only camped for one night - lots of work for a short amount of time, but we had fun!Once again, Lydia was happily entertained with an endless supply

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-90263975337313304832010-10-17T22:06:00.001-07:002010-10-17T23:05:34.750-07:00

After leaving Millsite, we headed to Boulder Mountain for the Thaine and Patra Taylor (my grandparents) family reunion. My grandparents had two daughters, so happily we're all close since there aren't many of us. We converged at the Aquarius Ranger Station, high up in the mountains above Loa where my parents live. It's not used as a ranger station any more, since technology has made it

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-54898940715390594032010-10-16T16:37:00.000-07:002010-10-16T20:10:49.287-07:00

After leaving the city of our beloved alma mater, we drove down to Millsite State Park for the Hulet family reunion (Matt's mom's family). I'd never been to that area of Utah, and the nearby reservoir and canyons were beautiful. We Pacific-Northwesterners were wilting a bit in the desert heat, but we found ways to cool off and enjoy a great time with everyone. In the middle of the heat came a

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-2953153536456923142010-10-15T14:38:00.001-07:002010-10-15T17:23:40.721-07:00

This summer, we took a two-week vacation to Utah for back-to-back family reunions. So we packed up our camping gear and hit the road. When we arrived in Utah, we spent some time at BYU walking around campus, something we haven't taken the time to do on previous trips. There were about four different EFY outdoor dances going on at the same time, and the kids had to stop and show their stuff. Seth

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-58010842991327219162010-10-14T14:48:00.000-07:002010-10-14T15:32:38.822-07:00

Despite a not-so-garden-friendly summer, we came out pretty successful on our harvest. We didn't try any new plants or vegetables, but we did try a new method for growing the snap peas. It's made from a simple door-frame shaped structure out of 1x2's the width of the grow box with a sheet of 5" mesh trellis material draped over the top. So it looks like a tent, and there's something for the peas

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-13545929285951970942010-10-13T20:47:00.000-07:002010-10-13T20:55:10.308-07:00

That's my goal - to bite off tiny pieces of what has become the massive task of updating our blog, and post one entry per day until we're current. Until then, here's a plug for our little ol' Praiseworthy blog where I've posted a tutorial for this fun little squishy fabric pumpkin. Of course, this is the only kind of pumpkin you'd want in your house that's squishy.Enjoy, and I'll see you here

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-5943731394819155612010-08-16T14:42:00.001-07:002010-08-16T14:52:37.049-07:00

Who says Friday the 13th is cursed with bad luck? We got lucky when we went to the Canter-berry Farm to pick our own blueberries. I didn't take a picture of our bucket, but we got 3 pounds (12 cups) for $6! That's not counting the approximate pound that we put in our mouths. The great thing about this farm is that they don't spray any pesticides, and they invite you to eat as much as you like

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-15311654144220690522010-07-26T08:53:00.000-07:002010-07-26T08:56:40.624-07:00

There are just a few more days to get in on the giveaway I'm doing over at our Praiseworthy blog celebrating our 200th post. Good luck!!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-12185581203456683262010-07-04T18:43:00.001-07:002010-07-04T18:46:12.386-07:00

...from this proud American family to yours.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-64174975058369355552010-06-08T21:41:00.000-07:002010-06-08T22:57:52.922-07:00

We've taken a little break from regular blogging, and honestly it's been nice. I read the article "Positive Uses of the Internet" in the June Ensign magazine and received new insight into this amazing technology that shrinks this great big world and puts it, literally, into the palm of our hands. The article mentions limiting our time on the computer, and an example was given of a woman who spent

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-14521993911996697202010-05-18T15:11:00.000-07:002010-05-18T21:35:30.347-07:00

I actually feel kinda cool for driving a "swagger wagon" myself. Enjoy!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-42479345630877549762010-05-12T15:35:00.000-07:002010-05-12T15:38:12.370-07:00

Head on over to the Praiseworthy blog. This week we're posting about baby stuff...tutorials, clever baby gift ideas, a giveaway and more!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-83356164246710329812010-04-14T09:32:00.001-07:002010-04-14T09:32:44.877-07:00

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-33322346291114345982010-03-20T21:50:00.000-07:002010-03-20T23:21:43.390-07:00

Sunday, March 14, aka "pi" day, was our little Lydia's FIRST birthday! What a year it has been, and oh how we love this amazing sweet girl. I've loved her from the beginning. The first three months and even beyond that, though, I admit there were days when honestly I did well to tolerate her. Acid reflux made her face turn red and the screaming commence whenever I put her down. Diaper changing

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-34111139699767985962010-02-25T21:10:00.000-08:002010-02-25T21:37:06.961-08:00

Big day today! Bright and early this morning, Lydia and I made a trip to Swedish Medical Center in Seattle to get tubes put in her ears. We've endured 7 months of ear pulling, discomfort, and 6 rounds of different antibiotics to clear up infections, and a myringotomy seemed to be the most promising, long-term solution. The team of doctors and nurses (especially this special person) ensured the

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-27487659595054923572010-02-04T12:14:00.000-08:002010-02-04T16:36:29.065-08:00

Please join me in the 1 Million Pillowcase Challenge! More info over at my other blog.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-53768939096054640822010-01-28T12:13:00.000-08:002010-01-28T12:20:20.572-08:00

For those of you who haven't heard about it, or haven't had a chance to visit, I'm participating in another blog with a community of friends. I posted my first tutorial for this little number (the skirt, not the baby - you're on your own for that) at http://lovelypraiseworthy.blogspot.com/.Check it out and let me know what you think!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-49409958795127617422010-01-11T14:01:00.000-08:002010-01-11T15:28:15.262-08:00

That is the big question around our house after the last few days. Seth has been a good napper for a long time, but lately it's getting harder and later to get him down for a nap. So, after over an hour of listening to him play in his (and Lydia's) room yesterday instead of resting, I went in to find all of his stuffed animals AND both pillows AND himself in the crib with Lydia...she wasn't too

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-66910438626527982912010-01-04T16:04:00.000-08:002010-01-04T16:16:51.864-08:00

Yesterday was my boy's first Sunday in Primary, and he was perfectly happy to say goodbye to the Nursery. We sang the Hello Song and Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam to welcome the newest members of the Primary. I spent the last week or so preparing him by letting him know there were no toys or snacks, but he gets to sing songs and have a lesson and maybe occasionally play a game. He even

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-22180001557386134332009-12-12T10:53:00.001-08:002009-12-12T22:13:17.963-08:00

For your reading pleasure, a narration of last night's Santa experience: Lydia: I'm not so sure about this, but I don't think I like it. And why on earth am I wearing so many stripes??Seth: I practiced all day what I would say to Santa, and now all I can do is stand here with my hand in my mouth.~~~Lydia: Oh, wow. Mom's making a fool of herself off to the side so I'll stop crying.Seth: Same as

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-22045538383812877462009-12-01T17:07:00.001-08:002009-12-01T17:14:43.635-08:00

I'm amazed at how much better I feel when I manage to get a little part of my world organized and in order. This is a before and after of an afternoon's time spent tidying up my little ribbon bin.Before:After:I love my doll pins swaddled up like cozy little babes. No more grumbling as I dig through the menagerie of scraps, spools, and tangled messes for just the right embelishment.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-41785640146187977412009-11-09T10:02:00.000-08:002009-11-09T12:08:13.565-08:00

We're approaching mid-November and I'm just now getting around to posting Halloween photos. Seth wanted to be Bob the Builder, and it wasn't until after I bought his clothes that he switched and wanted to be Handy Manny. In the end, he was happy being Bob and took the opportunity to "fix" all the things that were in need of repair.He's a pretty good likeness, don't you think? And little Lydia...

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-20549605488347150762009-10-26T22:39:00.000-07:002009-10-26T23:10:07.077-07:00

Captured this video of Seth singing "Baa Baa Black Sheep". Listen carefully when he gets to the part "One for the master, one for the dame, one for the little boy who lives down the ____". Yup, apparently the little boy has relocated from down the lane to down the drain. Hey, at least he's good at rhyming.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-8098771258592017912009-10-26T22:30:00.000-07:002009-10-26T22:39:34.487-07:00

Matt took Seth on a little (I use the term "little" very loosely) hike to Snow Lake with a few of the Boy Scouts from church. Matt was the fearless leader, and Seth played the part of comic relief. It was quite a challenge, between the rocky trail and chilly temperatures......but the view at the top proved to be worth the effort.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-11284097844245542192009-10-26T22:00:00.000-07:002009-10-26T22:30:03.252-07:00

Wow Lydia is nearly 8 months old! I was just going through photos to archive and ran across those of just a few months ago. It wasn't that long ago that I couldn't put her down without her (and subsequently me) crying. This is how we spent pretty much every day all day for her first two months of life. (Never mind the weird look on my face...how do I take a photo of myself without it looking odd?

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-3392628893315129762009-10-26T21:53:00.000-07:002009-10-26T22:00:20.423-07:00

Seth loves his Brio train tracks, and it appears to be a benefit not to have furniture in our living room. He puts together a few of the tracks but mostly likes to play with the trains, cars and buses. That is, until his beckoning me away from the kitchen surprised me with this impressive network of tracks and bridges. No joke we didn't help him with it, and he figured out to put blocks under

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-14530120394943796662009-10-26T21:39:00.000-07:002009-10-26T21:52:56.732-07:00

Happy Autumn, Everyone! My mental "I-should-blog-about-that" bucket is filling up, so following are random thoughts and happenings over the past month or so...and I do mean random, so don't try and find a connection between them. You've been warned...here goes.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-40975289866553609222009-10-14T20:50:00.001-07:002009-10-14T20:58:49.970-07:00

Mom found an excerpt from a 1949 sewing manual. Enjoy, and just try not to giggle just a little, if not laugh right out loud."Prepare yourself mentally for sewing. Think about what you are going to do...never approach sewing with a sigh or lackadaisically. Good results are difficult when indifference predominates. Never try to sew with a sink full of dirty dishes or beds unmade. When there are

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-73583667100541222502009-10-05T21:41:00.000-07:002009-10-07T08:36:25.418-07:00

After seven years of gainful employment here, I was notified today that I am being layed off. Hmm...my first thought was "what??" and my second thought was "what now?" What does this mean to me and what will it mean for our family? Anytime you put your energy into work, hobbies, church assignments, parenting, or whatever, it's not just what you do but becomes part of who you are. Now who am I?

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-11450734536162524212009-10-01T21:58:00.000-07:002009-10-01T22:18:21.906-07:00

Three years ago, September 26th:Fast forward to last Saturday, September 26, 2009: (My best attempt at a Handy Manny cake, as requested) We love you, Seth!!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-39104459226307618052009-09-23T22:00:00.000-07:002009-09-23T22:50:04.661-07:00

This past weekend was the 6th annual Mountain Valley Quilt Retreat hosted by my mom in lovely little Loa. This year there were 20 attendees from Nevada, Utah and Washington. She's a super talented teacher (she makes up the pattern herself!) and puts so much time and energy into making it fun. My sisters, aunt and I go every year to cook the meals for everyone, and we get in a little sewing time

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-43609898533219192912009-09-10T20:41:00.000-07:002009-09-10T20:55:08.867-07:00

OK, who else besides me thinks it's the cutest EVER when their baby sleeps with their bottom up in the air like this? It's all I can do not to pick her up and smother her with kisses. Of course, that would be the end of the nap so I have to settle for gently patting her on the bum and waiting for her to wake up and play later.And here she is just so tuckered out she didn't make it to her bed

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-46580548133995239122009-08-12T15:56:00.000-07:002009-08-12T16:10:42.021-07:00

Letters and shapes! Here's evidence (letters first): My favorite is the "I'm done" at the end. And now for shapes: Today as we were driving away from the house, Seth said his usual goodbyes to everything, i.e. "Bye bye, Dad! Bye bye, house! Bye bye, trees!" and as we came upon the stop sign, he uttered, "Bye, bye, octagon!" hee hee

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-74801799109478848482009-07-30T14:38:00.000-07:002009-07-30T19:45:27.491-07:00

Yep, see that 92? That's the temperature INSIDE our house thanks to this record-breaking heat wave. And this is even downstairs. Ugh! Can you top that?

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-57096839317354230892009-07-19T21:54:00.001-07:002009-07-19T22:03:01.129-07:00

Lydia is a busy girl. When we put her in the bouncy seat or the car seat, she pulls her head up so she can look around. She has simply got to know what's going on and doesn't want to miss any of it! She's 4 months going on 4 years! She was pretty darn happy - and cute too - sitting like a big girl in the high chair. What will happen when she's 10? "Mom, can I wear makeup?" OR "Dad, can I take the

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-90699243291693022682009-07-19T21:33:00.000-07:002009-07-20T08:33:19.082-07:00

It's that time of year again. Thanks to another bumper crop of squash, each evening at dinner we play the game "Where's the hidden zucchini?" Although I've tried to keep up with picking them before they become mammoth, as seen in this post, I'm slipping it in wherever I can just to use it up.Yesterday I made this for dessert, and as of yet, Matt hasn't shown any suspicion as to its contents (

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-26486551515254991242009-07-01T10:40:00.001-07:002009-07-01T11:33:20.869-07:00

Part two of my ongoing sewing series and a glimpse of more completed projects since Volume 1.1. My stack n' whack quilt is finally done. I've had the top done for a while, but I took a while getting it to Felicia to quilt it. I took this class way back when Mom had the quilt shop, and she picked out this fabric:Wild, huh? Something I wouldn't have chosen, but now that it's put together, I love it

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-19602942600280941602009-06-22T14:37:00.000-07:002009-06-22T14:39:39.882-07:00

Happy Father's Day, Matt/Daddy! We love you!

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-23664900864062841232009-06-17T09:21:00.000-07:002009-06-17T14:12:08.419-07:00

Our hearts go out to Matt's brother and family today. Yesterday they lost their little girl, Andi Mae, after suffering her whole 6 1/2 years with I-cell disease. The life expectancy of children with this condition is 3-5 years, so we all had a little extra time to know and love her. Even though she was very limited in her ability to respond, she gave us some sweet smiles to let us know she could

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-29462290731450361072009-06-10T19:56:00.000-07:002009-06-10T20:08:18.927-07:00

It's a lovely summer evening, so I went out and cut these peonies from our front yard.My question is, how do you pronounce it? If you're from Utah, most likely you say pee-OH-nees. Anywhere else it sounds more like PEE-uh-nees. Any way you say it, I just love these huge pom poms of loveliness. They remind me of my Granny's garden. We used to help her pick them and put them and in mason jars of

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-83314989857663357742009-06-08T08:50:00.001-07:002009-06-08T08:54:00.761-07:00

Know what that means? I'm a new Sacrament Meeting Single Mom. Yesterday Matt was called and sustained as the 2nd counselor in the Bishopric at church. I'm kind of stressed thinking about him being gone a lot with his responsibilities and wrangling two kids by myself at church while he sits on the stand. BUT at the same time I realize this isn't about me. I'm happy and proud of Matt's

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-38455983852754556702009-06-06T13:22:00.001-07:002009-06-06T13:34:27.461-07:00

...when the oven temperature conrol knob can be reached by a toddler. Today I baked off my Amish friendship bread, and I started to smell something burning. At first, I thought there was something spilled on the bottom of the oven that needed to get cleaned up, but when I checked, the oven was turned up all the way to 500 degrees! Fortunately, (1) Seth is down for a nap so I won't be quite as

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-43230596518735086912009-05-15T20:36:00.000-07:002009-05-16T08:35:18.569-07:00

Lydia is 2 whole months old! Weight: 9 lbs. 14.5 oz. (25%)Length: 22" (45%)Head circumference: 14.5" (5%) Smiles all around!Can you see an opera singer in the making??And this one's just sweet:

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-11573407138650465882009-05-06T18:19:00.000-07:002009-05-06T20:46:54.715-07:00

Last Sunday was Lydia's blessing day, and did she ever look like an angel! This was my blessing dress as a baby that Mom had in the cedar chest, so I put my own touch on it by adding a strip of fabric left over from my wedding dress and finishing it off with new lace at the bottom.This little crocheted jacket and bonnet were made my my Granny, Lydia's namesake, for when my mom was blessed and she

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-16518609836710404592009-05-06T17:58:00.000-07:002009-05-06T20:49:17.028-07:00

How can Lydia help but be a crafter? She's surrounded by all things made especially for her. I just have to brag about my creative and thoughtful family by sharing a sample of special handmade gifts given to her by her grandma and aunts. It's a bit lengthy with all the photos, but I wanted to show EVERYTHING.This is her everyday quilt, made by Grandma Chappell, my mom, that she lays on in the

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-11687350843987653512009-05-06T17:40:00.001-07:002009-05-06T17:57:48.778-07:00

Seth and I made cookies together today, something we haven't done since before Lydia was born, and I have truly missed our special times together, just the two of us. He was so excited to "scoop and dump!" and to spend time with Mommy. I painted this apron for him a few months ago so we initiated it today with the usual chocolate chip recipe.My mom gave me this apron years ago, something she got

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-89500286005410157862009-05-06T17:26:00.000-07:002009-05-06T17:39:53.739-07:00

I don't know what mailing list I got onto, but in the last couple of weeks, I received these quilt/fabric catalogs. I'm salivating as I peruse the Hancock's pages, although I have to do it in small doses since every speck of every page is saturated with colors and patterns - sensory overload...see what I mean? Someday I'll be able to return to sewing, quilting and creating, but for now I'm

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8551708641939319979.post-40212242577923604832009-04-23T19:21:00.000-07:002009-04-23T19:25:50.729-07:00

...in so many ways, even down to the hooded jackets.

Jen Ohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14547871720535698564noreply@blogger.com3