The Painter Family

Two weeks have transpired...

2012-02-09T10:14:00.000-08:00

This blog has never been a real-time accounting of our lives or feelings.

There is plenty of goodness that will probably go unrecorded.

(Zach's Star Wars Party! Kyle's awesome basketball games!)

And there are certainly things I'm all too happy to forget about.

(the city didn't receive my mail-in money order to pay my speeding ticket and now they've doubled my *already extensive* fine and I have a court date!?)

Asked to describe my current state, I'd say: frazzled.

I've struggled under the combined weight of my commitments, obligations and responsibilities.

But asked to describe what keeps me going: I'd point to the picture above.

It's a concerted effort to elevate what it is that means the very most to me.

Two of my loves...

2012-02-09T09:33:00.000-08:00

had a birthday in January.

It's like a time warp.

I took these pictures two years ago.

We celebrated the same way. Chocolate cake and fruit pizza.

And though they are older and wiser today, one thing has remained.

Their goodness.

They are the sort you want in your corner, on your team, by your side.

They are solid, unselfish and kind.

I love them.

I am a lucky girl.

little baby in a mint green bumbo.

2012-01-24T20:34:00.001-08:00

That's actually the first line of a song I find myself singing all day long.

"Little baby in a mint green bumbooooooo"

Seriously.

I can't help myself.

I know that bumbo days are short lived.

Very short lived.

Sing about them while you can, I say.

after breakfast, but still in pjs, is my favorite time of day.

2012-01-13T14:21:00.000-08:00

When David came home early from work, we scrolled through these pictures on my camera.

Speaking of the kids, I said, "They're like little jewels. We are so rich."

He said, "What more do we need?"

And we sat on the couch with star struck eyes, and goofy smiles looking at their perfect faces.

Also, at the time, they were all asleep.

Which made that moment, and those feelings, possible.

Oh parenthood.

remembering.

2012-01-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

Turns out, I don't have the ability to write what I'd like to say.

And so I am shooting from the hip on this one.

Here we are standing on the land my parents just purchased a few weeks ago.

It is in the beautiful Ozarks on Table Rock Lake.

Two lots down is Tom and Sylvia's cabin.

Sylvia is my mother's cousin, although that hardly describes the relationship.

They built their cabin over 13 years ago, and graciously, generously let our family use it.

I have so many fond memories here.

But our trip this weekend was more somber.

Tom passed very unexpectedly on New Years Day.

My Dad offered some remarks at the service.

There is a portion that I can't forget.

I can't stop thinking about how spot on this observation was.

Of Tom, he said:

"Even though you might have just met him, Tom had the unique ability to immediately put you at ease and make you feel comfortable. In the middle of the Iowa state fair, a basketball game, at an art exhibit, in a restaurant, at a business function, a family or social event, it didn't matter. He was just the kind of guy you wanted to be around. Tom could converse on any subject, and seemed always eager to find out more about a subject, about you, what your interests were and always able to, within time, funnel any conversation you were having with him to common ground. And before you knew it, you were unwittingly linked to Tom Rawlings forever."

It's true. It's true.

What a quality to possess.

December House

2011-12-28T08:53:00.000-08:00

I am quiet in my soul.

Peaceful and Grateful.

This was a very good season.

Three little Christmas Houses remind me of the cold and blustery day in November that my Mama, Ashley and I (with little Poppy) ventured out to Nell Hill's in search of Holiday goodness.

Candles burned all month long.

Evergreen, pumpkin spice, and peppermint crush were the scents of this season.

New stockings!

Before we ever had children I purchased the bow and flower stockings at an after Christmas sale.

Each and every year I would lament the fact that I didn't make new stockings to accommodate our growing family.

This summer, unbeknownst to me, David dug the two stockings out of our tub of Holiday decor, and took them to a very talented lady who created two new matching stockings for my boys!

How very very thoughtful.

You bet I cried when David presented them to me this October.

New Books!

My favorite Christmas gift.

Admittedly, they never get a lot of action the morning of.

There are other shiny new things.

But books are friends that last longer than all the other toys and goodies.

Last night at 10:30pm, Roman snuck into my room with his new book.

We read about Mike Mulligan and Mary Anne by the light of my lamp.

He loves that Mike Mulligan and his steam shovel Mary Anne.

I am looking forward to the new year, but sort of want to hang on to the last bits of loveliness this December has been.

so well loved

2011-12-21T17:14:00.000-08:00

A sister makes life infinitely more interesting.

Toys thoughtfully displayed around each blanket, carrier, swing and chair.

A song in the morning,

and a parade of ponies in the afternoon.

I've thought about hiring a professional...but then I wouldn't have access to pictures like this:

2011-12-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

Oh Friends.
See that little Tasmanian Devil front and center?
This might be the roughest Christmas picture yet.

Fantastic Indeed

2011-12-11T21:31:00.000-08:00

After Thanksgiving, we headed down south to watch Kyle play basketball.

(Tis the season!! YAY Basketball!! YAY Kyle!!)

We totally stopped by Fantastic Caverns.

"America's Only Drive Thru Cave!"

I love the picture they take when you enter.

Roman is covering his head with his hood, he was a little nervous the whole time,

and my brother Kevin's face is awesome.

Leave it to him.

...only those labors where the sacrifice is greater than the reward.

2011-12-05T08:52:00.000-08:00

We had just come from a soccer game.

I had 2 shopping carts and 4 kids.

David showed up about 10 minutes in and saved me from shopping alone.

(But not before he hid in the produce to take these pictures ha!)

The kids were actually well behaved on this trip, but I suppose we were still a sight to see.

Twice that night, we received less than encouraging remarks from strangers.

Dude...why are strangers so hostile?

One lady told us we should stop having kids :)

Um. Noted. Thanks.

I was feeling a bit discouraged...maybe embarrassed.

I guess I care what strangers think, dang it.

The resolution to this internal conflict came just a few days later.

I listened to President Monson's retelling of The Mansion during the Christmas Devotional.

(if you want to hear the story click here, it begins at minute 5:20)

Why is this message so easy to forget?

I don't know. But how blessed I feel for the reminder.

I say to myself,

"Will you be paid twice?"

My Girls

2011-11-25T10:02:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is such a perfect holiday.

All about gratitude and food, what's not to love?

My mom took these shots yesterday.

I treasure them.

On a gray, winter-like morning...

2011-11-21T09:11:00.000-08:00

I am cleaning up from the festivities of yesterday.

Poppy was blessed in church.

Sweet little Poppy cried through the entire thing, making her daddy quite nervous.

David gave a beautiful blessing as always.

I love all baby blessings,

but there is something especially tender about listening to a father bless his tiny girl.

We had a luncheon at our home after our meetings.

I received a new journal this weekend and knew pretty quickly what I wanted to use it for.

I love planning special occasions for my family,

usually jotting down long lists and ideas or sketches on paper.

I am hoping that it might be fun in years to come to flip back through this journal

and see the shopping list for a child's fourth birthday, or baptism, or graduation party.

Poppy's blessing is the inaugural entry in that little book.

I shared my thoughts about her blessing at the end.

But I suppose that I am also hoping somewhere down the road,

my family will read a bit deeper into the lists for

grainy Dijon and Gruyere,

and understand that those careful notes and planning are just evidence of

one way I attempted to show my love for them.

I hope they remember that we celebrated their important milestones,

that we celebrated them.

Shatto Milk

2011-11-12T09:17:00.000-08:00

Pretty skies and no school on Friday.

We headed to the dairy farm.

I think everyone would agree that the best part was standing around sampling milk.

Root-beer, Strawberry, Banana, Orange and of course Chocolate.

We also tasted their traditional eggnog and the pumpkin spice flavor.

yum and yum.

(8 varieties of cheese and delicious sweet butter!...amazing)

It was a delightful tour,

the kind that makes you feel really good about supporting a farm like Shatto.
The drive out was beautiful,

and I began to ramble on about how I could really live in the country.

I pictured a big garden, fruit trees and wide open spaces.

Every little town out there has three things...

a Dollar General, a Casey's Gas Station and a Sonic/Pizza Hut/Subway (insert one).

But these days with technology, it wouldn't feel so isolating.

I mean, Amazon sells everything correct? UPS delivers everywhere, right?

Then David pulled out his phone and said..."There is no internet connection."

Ummmm. I might have to think on it a little more. :)

Happy Halloween 2011!

2011-11-02T10:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

From,

The Super Heroes

A Princess

And the Sweetest Little Strawberry

The Little Strawberry has a secret...SHE SMILES!

Pumpkin time

2011-10-28T18:27:00.000-07:00

It happens each time.

Once the new baby is born, your older baby seems so grown up. So big.

Roman is unassuming and pretty chill with his new responsibilities.

But what my eye kept seeing was how little my boy still is.

Sucking his thumb in a great big pumpkin patch.

My sweet Robino-robotto-robaby.

Ya win some, lose some

2011-10-28T13:43:00.000-07:00

(Zach bottom row...middle)
(photo by commonmandigital.com - washed out scan by me :)

I love Zach's football picture this year!
He struck the perfect balance between tough guy and cutie pie.
This season was rough going at times.
Poppy was born right in the middle of football mania,
and promptness to practices and games was not our forte.
Six people dressed and fed and out the door by 7:30 am did not happen easily (ever).
I especially felt the parental-failure-guilt on his homecoming day.
We were late and missed the parade float down to the field.
We pulled in to the parking lot, Zach jumped out,
Dave scribbled some "Go Sharks" type message on our car windows
while I tried as fast as I could to pen a poster (baby strapped to me)
for hanging on the celebratory fence.
Unfortuanately my shark looked more like an oven mitt,
and the "bite" out of the corner didn't really translate the way I thought it would.
Sheesh.
And then.
I walked over to the fence and saw the aaaamazing creations parents had crafted.
Embarassment ensued.
Signs in the shape of helmets-made from wood-
vinyl banners, pictures from childhood...streamers, balloons, and on and on.
I had even forgotten to bring something to hang up the sign with,
so we tucked it (tried to hide it?) along the bottom of the fence.
After the game Zach wanted to find his sign.
Ugggh.
He was totally pumped to find it, wanted his photo taken with it.
Then he came home and taped it to his bed.
Shucks. Made me teary.
Somehow he saw past the homeliness of it all and appreciated our efforts.
Bless that boy.

The only thing he asked me was, "Mom, why did you put stairs in the corner of my poster?"

One of my favorite fall rituals...updating the photo wall

2011-10-21T13:39:00.000-07:00

Love my babies.

Can hardly believe how quickly they grow!

Also, I have FOUR frames in my hallway.

So much to be grateful for.

In case you want to look back (like I do)

2009

2010

And in hopes to prove to my children that, yes indeed, they thought my jokes were funny at one point in their lives...

(except for one...she's a tough sell!)

1 Month

2011-10-14T06:03:00.000-07:00

Perfection.

The newborn stage has a tendency to be a bit hazy.

As in, sleep deprived mental haziness.

I want to remember the things that make all the sleep deprivation WORTH IT!

Her sweet sweet smell. She is so yummy.

Our mommy / baby connection.

She quiets down when she hears my voice.

(or sometimes screams even louder just to ensure that I KNOW SHE IS HUNGRY!)

Secretly, I think that is so so cute.

Seal the deal my little girlie.

I love feeding her.

It takes so much time out of my day.

And that, I think, is precisely why I love it.

I get to slooooooooow down and cuddle up with my baby.

My perfect, 1 month old baby Poppy.

If it weren't for my husband, I'd be a Luddite

2011-10-11T19:43:00.000-07:00

Fortunately, he keeps me current.

And although I miss the simpleness of my old phone,

I find myself taking a lot more pictures with the new one.

Two cute boys at dinner.

JoAnn dollar crafts on the porch

Zachary was recognized for his good character at school (his certificate said he helped a classmate tie his shoe and then offered to teach him how to tie it himself:) They had all the children in the district who won for the month march out onto the field during a high school football game to be recognized.

First night home from the hospital.
I was feeling totally bummed that I still looked 6 months pregnant.
I came out of the bathroom and said the same thing to David.
He ignored my whining and pulled me close

saying he "loved the ruffle placement" on my new pjs.

Ha!
He's a keeper.

Look who found her thumb.

Milk Coma.

Two sillies playing with promotional stickers from the mail.

Lovely little face.

Uh...picture of a braid for my sister, but look! I did my hair!

Lily's rainbow unicorn she drew at Five Guys.

She wanted it posted on their board.

Sweet Roman.
He says, "I kiss the baby" and this is what he does...
kisses her head and then presses his cheek to her.
Every time.
Melts my heart.

What I'd like to say

2011-09-30T12:56:00.000-07:00

Toting around the family (with a brand new one) encourages lots of comments from onlookers.
Mostly, a lot of commiseration.
We are smack dab in the middle of transitioning, trust me, I feel it.
And yet, there are certain remarks that stick with me.
They are never the commiserating sort.
(the lactation consultant, in the hospital, while the children were loudly visiting my room and eating the complimentary pudding.)
"You have a beautiful family, and are so very blessed."
(the cashier at CVS while Roman and Lily were 15 feet away clutching tightly, and begging for, stuffed hamsters in the shape of bowling balls)
"You have fun with those kids. Enjoy them, have fun!"

I really want to be the kind of lady who remarks on the beauty.
Who sees the joyful possibility.
Because heaven knows the impact these words have had on me.

Poppy Love

2011-09-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

The story of Poppy's birth is different in some small ways than my previous experiences.

But in the most important ways it was exactly the same as each of the others.

There was a lotta love and excitement in that room. The mood was relaxed and peaceful (thank you epidural/anesthesiologist) and I only pushed one time before she made her debut.

(it's obnoxious i know, you can hit me later)

I am grateful for the blessing of healthy babies and big hips. :)

I guess at this point, when I think about the story of Poppy's birth, I'm not thinking as much about time-lines and numbers anymore.

Stepping back a bit from it all I see another story,

about how Poppy has brought so much to our home.

My mom sewed the blue pillow for me.

It was a project I had tucked in the corner of my room for so long.

I am not a seamstress.

And I'm not sure why I always collect projects that require the sewing machine.

Also, my bed is clear.

Clear of laundry that is.

Friday after Poppy was born, I hit a personal slump.

I think the reality of 4 children certainly caught up with me.

(and that is an understatement)

I burst into tears no less than 3 times that day, and my sisters and mom caught wind.

They converged on my home Friday night and brought dinner, folded my mounds of laundry and then took Zach, Lily and Roman for overnights at their homes.

I'll take the opportunity to publicly thank my patient husband who put up

with endless "to-do" lists and never once complained or told me (rightfully so) I was insufferable/pushing it/a slave driver.

These lists were split down the middle.

My side and his side.

Except my side said things like *purchase pacifier *order this/that

...and his side looked more like *build bookshelves *paint and move furniture *make crib skirt (yes, he really did that...he's way better with a sewing machine by the way) *switch light fixtures *clean your nasty garage.

Ahhhhh, I only wish I was kidding.

I can laugh now, it doesn't all seem nearly as important as it did a few weeks ago.

The book ledges are in the boys room.

And below are pictures from the girls room.

A lot of love went into the preparations for Poppy's arrival.

Meals and well-wishes from family and friends have been abundant and so so appreciated.

It is humbling to realize just how essential the kind service of others has been to our family.

And although we have our moments of crazy,

everyone is a bit softer,

the kids beg to hold Poppy all the time,

and we are more interested in making the feeling in our home a little more heaven-like.

Poppy Sloan Painter

2011-09-15T18:02:00.000-07:00

Born Sunday September 11, 2011

6lbs 4oz

18" long

As sweet as they come.

Lily is 5!

2011-09-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

Lily's 5th Birthday was celebrated!

It was low key, all things considered, but cupcakes are one detail that is always attended to.

Lily told everyone she wanted Hello Kitty (stuff) and that is surely what she got!

Which reminds me, I would LOVE to find the family picture taken when I was just about her age (ok, maybe older).

My parents actually let me hold up my stuffed Hello Kitty in the family photo!

Not a family snapshot, but a studio portrait. HA!

So I guess I am saying, I understand the obsession.

Miss Lily is 100% awesomeness, and I feel like I have won the lottery having her home with me for another blessed year.

Happy FIVE Lily!

Preparation

2011-08-30T07:23:00.000-07:00

Motherhood has grown on me.

Or rather, more accurately, helped me grow.

It's the daily interactions with these little people for sure,

but it is also the idea of pregnancy, and the actual pregnancy that has changed me so completely.

I always hate to admit this, but I bawled my eyes out when I discovered I was pregnant for the first time.

My life plan needed some readjustment.

Apparently I didn't learn much that go-round because my lesson was the same the second time that little test was (surprise!) positive.

Instead of crying, I laughed out loud and looked across the room at my 10 month old.

Oh, this would be fun.

And it was. I was getting the hang of it.

I thought I had the lesson down pat...it's important to be flexible, humble, and live with gratitude.

So finally, we planned the third. It was going to be perfect.

Three days after we confirmed the pregnancy, everything changed with employment, and life as we knew it.

Same lesson, just packaged in a different box.

I'm a slow learner.

After Roman was born, I was walking on the treadmill in our basement.

I alternated between looking at my peaceful little newborn who was swinging softly,

and glancing at the trees and grass that were really beginning the transformation to green.

An undeniable, and powerful thought entered my mind.

We were going to have another baby. And it would be a little girl.

Honestly, I felt ridiculous.

Must be the crazy hormones.

I had a newborn, how preposterous to think about another!

A few weeks passed.

But eventually I told David.

He smiled and said he felt the same thing.

The fourth pregnancy has been more difficult for me physically.

This past Sunday was spent trying to ignore contractions that were 2-3 minutes apart.

(I am nothing if not stubborn)

I wore high heels to church, I fed the missionaries, I kept going until finally,

Sunday night we headed to the hospital.

Pre-term labor.

The shot didn't work, but finally, and thankfully, the pills did.

More than once this gestational year I've been brought to tears.

Tired, in pain, fearful, and frustrated.

I try to remember that providently, I knew about this little girl.

And that brings peace, and hope, and makes me pretty darn excited to finally meet her.

Also, I think whatever growth that might have occurred,

has only just prepared me a bit better to be her mother.

And just maybe, that is the point.

(ps. if you've asked... my due date is Sept. 29th...

When I left the hospital Monday morning I was 2 1/2 and 70%...and just trying to make it to 37 weeks.

We shall see!)

Zachary Cannon - 1st Grade

2011-08-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

Zachary started school on August 17th.

He was ready and so dang excited to get there.

We had our back to school dinner - he selected the same menu as last year :)

Then all the children got father's blessings...and they begged me to get one too!

I was glad I did.

Zach is loving Mrs. Pickett's first grade class.

He has homework every night...and weekly spelling tests too!

But all he could talk about this morning was the class pet (a chinchilla),

that was going to be making it's debut today.

I am so happy for him.

So relieved that he loves his teacher and everything about school.

But I miss him, and miss the lazy summer days.

Football is back again.

And this time around he has bigger cleats,

a mouthguard that cracks me up

(because it is molded to his missing two front bottom teeth),

is on the Orange Sharks team,

and is really loving pushing kids to the ground this year.

I say this a lot, but I will say it again...

Zach is a good and smart little boy.

He is an absolute blessing and truly easy to love to pieces.

Sometimes though, I realize he is growing up, transitioning from little boy.

Zachary had his first bike wreck last week, and split his chin open.

(if only there was a video of my 9-month pregnant self sprinting down the cul-de-sac)

I was doing the mom thing and trying my hardest to come up with a clever

way to prevent his football chin strap from reopening his wound.

But after I told him about my bandaid/cottonball contraption,

he politely told me that it would embarrass him, and he was fine without.

Oh boy, sometimes, you just have to learn to step back.

I am trying to learn to step back.

Just a little.

(Zachary - this past weekend - at his first Chiefs game with his dad!!)

BHG

2011-08-20T19:09:00.000-07:00

While in Des Moines for the State Fair, we toured the Better Homes and Gardens office and test kitchens.

Thanks to Kelly, my (second) cousin, who is the editor for Diabetic Living Magazine, we showed up late Saturday afternoon and peeked around an empty building.

My favorite parts...

*the big and luxurious kitchen all ready for a photoshoot

*the test kitchens, full of ingredients and recipes and looking like a fun place to be

*catching a glimpse into people's offices and seeing evidence of creativity

*those gardening goodies all disheveled in boxes but looking beautiful nonetheless

*listening to all the details...from the grocery buyer, to the recipe testers, stylists, photographers and editors...I couldn't decide which job might be my favorite!

*loved seeing each Meredith corp magazine, and the room where the magazine layouts were being worked on...so so cool.

Pretty, pretty, pretty around every corner.

Iowa State Fair

2011-08-17T08:22:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to attend the Iowa State Fair for years now.

Their motto is, "Nothing Compares"...and as far as state fairs go, I'd agree.

Huge pigs, pumpkins, cows of butter, and over 60 food items on a stick.

(Yes, there are apps for the Iowa state fair food)

We saw all kinds of new-to-us things.

Including Sarah Palin and her husband. :)

Roman is giving it a go at the Marine's pull-up bar.

And Zachary won a football for doing 20 pull-ups. (assisted :)

The official Budweiser Clydesdale Clan.

I think my favorite part was the Hands on the Farm exhibit for the kids.

Basically it took them through the process of farming, in a kid-friendly way.

(Seriously the cutest farmer I've ever seen)

They planted, and harvested produce.

Milled Corn and Soybeans.

Turned their Soybeans into Soy Diesel.

Which they used to fill up their tractors.

Sheared wool from the sheep.

(and on and on)

At the very end, they sold their goods to the farmers market and received money for their hard work.

Then they could take that money into the store and purchase a snack.

There were an overwhelming number of snacks to choose from.

Of course no kid in his right mind chose something like the raisin boxes...

my kids went for the bomb pops!

Zach was so excited for the official lego tent.

Aerodynamics be darned, it was Lily's over-accessorized creation that ended up beating out all the boys who had put so much thought into their lego car designs.

Although, the boys followed the 20-piece rule, and Miss Lily, ummm, didn't.

They loved the bungee trampoline.

Lily figured out how to do backflips and spend her time flipping through the air.

Of course she did.

My dad was a judge for the Iowa's Best Corn Casserole Contest.

It was serious business folks.

Honestly, one of the most fun things I've watched in a long time.

Each judge had an assistant.

(That sweet little lady sitting next to my daddio -who is in the white hat-was his assistant)

Typically they are former home-ec teachers or something of the sort...and they give instructions and help the judges record their opinions.

See that big smile in the periwinkle outfit? She was the 1st prize winner.

Can you even imagine the bragging rights she owns now? :)

***
We were in Iowa for 3 days, but I think you could go to the fair for the entire 2-weeks (for years and years) and still not see and do all there is to see and do. What a great time. We were totally spoiled by my parents, and we were so glad to come along. There was a break in the stifling heat that has been hanging around the Midwest, and my pregnant self really (really) appreciated that! Until next time Iowa State Fair!

A Summer Afternoon

2011-08-03T14:34:00.000-07:00

There were a few magical hours in between our busy morning and our hectic evening.

Everyone was home together and content.

Roman demolished a bowl of grapes.

David played Monopoly with the kids.

I made (and photographed) peach jam.

It sounds so simple, but afternoons like this are hard to come by lately.

And they feel so so great.

hands down the best part about living by family = COUSINS

2011-07-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

ps... I'm sort of in love with this last one, because let's be honest, a lot of kid pictures look like this!

pss... Hi Renee!

Vacation

2011-07-22T09:04:00.000-07:00

(i personally love that Dave is sitting in this covered, ox-pulled wagon talking on his cell phone)

Always good times in Nauvoo.

I suppose this makes it our 2nd annual trip.

We have the Nauvoo brick and prairie diamond.

We made a rope together, ate ash bread and ginger cookies.

And all the rest of the usual suspects.
In fact this year, we even walked away with the rare mini-horseshoe from the blacksmith

thanks to Lily and her adorableness.

During the Blacksmith presentation, he directed a question to the children in the group.

He began by hinting that he was a BLACKsmith,

and what color did they think a blacksmith would make the horse's shoe?

Of course every little kid chimed in with "black!" as he dipped the red-hot metal in black oil.

But Lily was honestly disappointed.

Passe!

She piped up, "I would make my horseshoes' PINK!"

And everyone laughed, enough so, that the teenage girl who actually received the horseshoe,

(based on who's birthday was next)

found Lily in the parking lot and gave it to her.

The week before we left, the boys had a well-child checkup.

Our pediatrician asked the kids if they were going on a vacation this summer.

(I was about to answer no...)

But Zach and Lily replied with an enthusiastic YES!

They began to describe Nauvoo and all the things they do there.

You would have thought they were describing an extravagant Disneyland get-a-way.

So the doctor looks at me with a puzzled look and asked, "where is Nauvoo?"

And trying to take it down a notch, I explain that it is a tiny little town in Illinois,

that has historical significance to our faith.

She sort of nodded her head and said, "well, have fun!"

Ha. ha.

So I learned a little something from my kiddos.

I certainly wasn't counting Nauvoo as "vacation".

I mean, give me a beach, or a foreign country, or some sort of magestic scenery,

or at the very least give me something other than the Holiday Inn Express in Keokuk, Iowa!

But you know what?

Car ride with treats and movie - check.

Hotel stay with breakfast and jumping on beds - check.

More family fun than you can shake a stick at - check.

Memories, memories, memories - check.

It doesn't need to be fancy...it's a vacation!

Dear David,

2011-07-14T19:11:00.000-07:00

July 5th is our day.

The anniversary of the day we met in 1997.

The anniversary of the day we married in 2002.

14 years to be in love.

9 of them married.

This year to celebrate, we, um...kind of didn't.

You helped some people move last minute, and I was feeling sick.

You brought me a mango smoothie and said, "we'll make it up tomorrow."

And then life kept going, really fast...and each day that passed

...passed.

More than once we've laughed about how un-celebratory we've been.

We say things like, "next year - for our 10 year/15 year - it's going to be big, we'll do it right!"

Or if we have a little time alone together, we smile knowingly and say,

"this is for our anniversary." :)

*sigh*

Life isn't easy.

Sometimes it's downright brutal.

But there is one thing, that even a midst trials I've never taken for granted.

That is, that our relationship is easy.

Meaning drama-free and love-full.

I say that with eyes wide open,

and a personal belief that it's not necessarily something we can take 100% credit for.

And so I see you as my perfect-for-me love,

the person I'd want with me on a deserted island,

and any other cliche-ish thing you want to add in here.

But mostly, I see you as a blessing.

Loving you, and feeling your love for me has always been,

a gift from above.

xoxo,

tara

Boom Boom - July 4th (extended) weekend

2011-07-07T13:14:00.000-07:00

Whirlyball with the family.

It's like lacrosse played in bumper cars.

Pregnant ladies (me) had to sit this one out...but it sure looked like fun.

get set. Laura and Zach.

go! David and Kyle!

go! mini-racer Zach (racing all by himself)

We cheered every time he passed...

there were 12 adults cheering and we were loud,

he thought it was great.

My contribution to one of many BBQs,

patriotic strawberries.

A rousing game of football played by six handsome men...

which included a controversial penalty flag (wet underwear)

that was thrown as often as possible.

Luckily, this game ended in a tie.

I'm noticing a theme...our family enjoys a healthy competition.

spectators....young

spectators....old(er)

Ashley, Anna and Mama...posing for sparkly pictures.

Sparkler photographs were a hit this year.

I think I have at least 40!
And true to Sloan tradition we loaded up on fireworks for the 4th.

It really was a brilliant weekend.

Every one of my siblings (and their significant others) were in town.

That won't happen again for a while, so we went all out.

Swimming, eating, playing, hot-tub-ing, more eating, and 1am bedtimes.

It's taken us days to recover from the fun.

My kids have napped all week (that never happens).

But it was worth it, worth it, worth it.

I love these people.

summer summer summer

2011-07-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

Summer is absolutely flying by.

Our days are full and I love the sound of our home...busy.

Making smores in the car happened on the hottest day of the year thus far.

They were wrapped in foil, placed on the dashboard, and wah-lah...

15 minutes later, ready to eat.

Of course campfire tastes best, microwave melts marshmallows better,

but the novelty of making them in the car? Tops them all.

Not all summer days are easy.

(especially when you're emotional/pregnant and your husband works late every single summer night)

(especially when grocery shopping, visiting teaching and cleaning bathrooms have to happen on the same day...with children in tow)

(especially when you're driving kids to camps, sitting through 2 hour gymnastic practices with small boys, and trying to keep track of 3 novice swimmers in the pool on a weekly basis...by yourself)

(especially when you're....oh wait, am I complaining?)

Anyway.

A thoughtful note left on my pillow did wonders for my moral and energy level.
And also reminded me that I am hardly, hardly alone in my endeavors.

Harvest

2011-06-23T15:42:00.000-07:00

We've picked the first offerings of our deck-garden.

Those cherry tomatoes kill me, almost too cute to eat.

I really hope next summer I have my very own dirt to plant in.

I want zucchini coming out my ears.

2011-06-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

I guess you could say we've spent the last two weekends celebrating awesomeness.

(which is a nice way of saying that the last two weeks were full of boring busyness)

David and I went out for a BBQ date.

As in, we wait in line, outside, for 50 minutes to eat BBQ at a sketchy gas station.

And so do a million other people who brave the humidity because yes...it's that good.

I thought about that meal all week.

So I attempted my own pulled-pork.

(KC recipe found in Williams-Sonoma catalog)

It's a keeper.

But what elevates it to awesome is that you can purchase

amazing BBQ sauce at any local store around here.

(gas stations included)

I love you Kansas City.

This picture is sorta self-explanatory,

except to say that we often forget how great it is to live so close.

Our children had never been to the Liberty Jail.

So we took some time to rectify that situation.

They loved it.

And so did we.

Which brings us to Father's Day weekend.

In which we celebrated the awesome dad in our home all weekend.

We walked around Cabela's (while he shopped in peace),

We enjoyed burgers for dinner twice (in his honor)

We made cards and breakfast in bed (remembering of course, the mango)

We baked up his very favorite fruit pizza (and actually let him have the first bite)

all to say...we think he's the most awesome thing in our lives.

a popsicle a day

2011-06-07T17:45:00.000-07:00

We are into the heat these days.

Which is actually welcome considering it lessens the chance for those tornado sirens my children have grown to fear.

And so begins our popsicle habit.

We registered for those popsicle molds when we got married.

Thinking some day, they'd be fun to have.

I get a kick out of using them now.

There is an orange dreamsicle recipe that requires cooked cream and egg yolks!

It's delicious.

But my kids enjoy the days I simply pour fruit juice equally as well.

It's more about the chilly-sweet- (drippy) mess on a hot day for them.

If I was really thinking ahead as a newlywed,

I'd register for a hefty supply of stain-stick.

something's missing...

2011-06-01T11:37:00.000-07:00

I :

love this new smile,

his enthusiasm for loose teeth,

and playing tooth fairy.

He :

let his dad pull it (!!!)

quickly counted all his teeth to see how much money he could make...

but ended up spending his first dollar on skittles,

and shared with his brother.

I've never laughed harder...

2011-05-24T19:19:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Lily had her first experience with a gymnastics invitational.

Their coaches told them that if they did really good, they would get a medal.

And honestly, the medal ceremony was the best part of the whole thing.

This first picture is Lily, on the podium with her first medal.

She was only expecting one.

Lily ended up placing in each event (bars, beam, floor and vault),

and so the progression of photos from the ceremony is a riot.

Now she's won two. You can tell she's pretty pumped about them.

And well, it just kept going.

Four medals!

Spectators began to chuckle at her reaction each time.

I don't know where she gets it (not from me!)

but she's not shy in front of a crowd.

Somewhere along the way, it went to her head....

quite literally went to her head.

She began to throw her face into the sky when it was time for the salute.

I was dying.

And so was David, my parents and my sister Anna.

We were cry/laughing, wiping tears from our eyes,

it was so hilarious to see her like that.

And then, she ended up with the coveted all around trophy.

She won 1st place all around in her division.

There was more jumping and head flinging.

She's looking a little tired (it was a 4 hour event!),

but pleased.

Oh Lily.

She is a ball of energy and confidence.

With a healthy dose of independence (help me).

Perhaps the next lesson...humility.

Spring Soccer...and too many pictures from an adoring mama

2011-05-17T10:48:00.000-07:00

(A scoring kick!)

I didn't know the end of kindergarten would be just as emotional as the beginning.

But here we are, nonetheless.

Last week I watched Zach in his kindergarten graduation ceremony.

He had a speaking part...and was so handsome and composed,

so sure of himself in front of all those people.

There are a million things I want to say about him.

I love that kind, blonde-haired boy.

These photos are from the last soccer game of the season.

It all came together for him on this specific day.

Zach hadn't scored a goal all season, but wanted to so badly.

Something clicked, he was aggressive.

He ended up scoring twice.

For me, it was the effort and progress that had me shouting enthusiastically.

(ok, I was screaming and jumping up and down)

I suppose that sums up this whole year.

That might be the best part of parenthood,

cheering for effort and progress.

Lily was right all along

2011-05-11T14:26:00.000-07:00

We are having a girl!

Lily came with us to the ultrasound appointment

...and gasped out loud when they announced "girl".

It really was sweet.

Having a sister is such a gift.

I have to admit, I am really excited as well, I was hoping girl too.

Besides, we're short on female emotion in this house....

(what happened when I asked if I could take one more picture because my exposure was off:)

Mother's Day

2011-05-09T10:26:00.000-07:00

Yes indeed, I felt "predee" and special all day long.

Sure do love this holiday.

My children drew sweet cards, and made certain to hug me once an hour.

The men in my life (husband, dad and brothers) went the extra mile too.

We ate quiche, pastries, fruit, and cheesecake. oy!

I gave my mother some little pretties to pamper herself,

and finished off the day by reading Sheri Dew, "Are We Not All Mothers?".

She gave this address when I was in college.

I remember walking to the Marriot Center with my roommates,

and listening to this amazing message.

She said,

"Motherhood is more than bearing children...It is the essence of who we are as women."

I feel that deeply.

But speaking of bearing children, one more day until we find out if painter #4 is a boy or girl!!

(and in case you think my motherhood experience is all peonies and cheesecake, you might enjoy the fact that 30 minutes ago I changed a leaky diaper full of unspeakable grossness

...that got on me, carpet and clothes...

belonging to a screaming two year old. I'm taking it all in stride.)

Take Your Child to Work Day

2011-05-02T20:26:00.000-07:00

Zach could hardly contain his excitement to be going to work with his dad.

And when he finally climbed up into the truck and buckled himself in that morning,

he turned to his father and said,

"Dad, if we are working really hard, and maybe we get tired or thirsty...

do you think we could stop by Quick Trip and get a donut and a soda?"

Amazing how fast they get the hang of things.

An Easter Celebration...personally.

2011-04-26T09:52:00.000-07:00

A 6:40 am Easter Bunny wake up call

Zach started right in on his new legos,

Roman on his new train,

and Lily ignored her gifts for a while and started right in on the candy.

After church we had an Easter Dinner and egg hunt where Zachary ditched his church clothes for some of Auntie Anna's clothes.

(he will kill me in about 8 years for posting this picture)

We gave Anna a hard time because her shorts were even short on a 6 year old...haha.

Roman was a patient egg gatherer,

And Lily (per usual) wins the prize for most enthusiastic egg finder!

It was a great weekend.

I love preparing for all the festivities.

Shopping for Easter basket goodies and new Easter clothes,

making casseroles and pies for Easter Dinner, it's fun.

And always worth the effort it takes.

Despite all the time spent in preparations,

two separate experiences the week prior really helped me feel ready for an Easter celebration.

The first one happened while waiting in a long line for the restroom.

Two ladies behind me struck up a conversation about looking forward to their respective Easter services.

One woman explained that her favorite part from last year was when her preacher,

at a pivotal moment during his speech,

began to pour blood over all of the white lilies.

That was all I heard, because it was my turn for the bathroom.

Second, David came home one day and told me he had seen quite a sight on the highway.

While driving down Hwy 152 on Friday, there was a man walking down the shoulder of the road

carrying a huge wooden cross (with a wheel on the back end...haha).

Wow. Can you imagine? (does this stuff only happen in Missouri?:)

Without getting too personal, I will say this...

I couldn't stop thinking about how drastically different those sorts of

visual stunts are from my own experiences with Easter.

I really do respect their desire to worship how they see fit,

and in fact, seeing how obviously moved some people are with that part of the story

(the blood, the cross, the death)

it helped me formulate more clearly what part of Easter is really personal to me.

Namely, the reality of an empty tomb and the resurrection.

Birthday Boy

2011-04-16T08:23:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was Roman's birthday!

We invited the cousins over to celebrate...and other than Lily, that means all boys.

Roman's favorite things are trains and balloons.

He loves to sit with David's phone and watch youtube videos of train cars.

Not cartoon trains, but real trains that people (who?) film and post to the internet. haha.

So when he woke from his nap, and saw all those train cupcakes,

and the gigantic #2 balloon, a huuuuge smile spread across his face.

Two is such a great birthday age, he has attended enough parties to really get it.

Roman sat in his chair so proudly when we prepared to sing happy birthday.

I couldn't help but snap a thousand pictures because to me, his faces were priceless.

Roman started out all business watching Dave light the candles,

but as soon as everyone began singing to him, he couldn't stop smiling.

Then he got real serious again and no one had to tell him to blow out his candles.

He knew the drill.

The last two pictures are great.

Lily made that face each time she peeked in at one of Roman's gifts.

Both Zachary and Lily did a great job of hyping up the birthday traditions.

The last photo shows Roman's fist pump reaction to a new scooter. :)

He's always trying to ride Zachary's razor, and finally, Roman got his own 3-wheeled version.

Roman is one coordinated little dude zooming all over the sidewalks.

It's hard to believe my sweet little Ro-baby is two.

Happy Happy Birthday.

A Shiny Suit

2011-04-09T05:35:00.000-07:00

At Christmas, Lily wanted a "shiny suit" for gymnastics.

Santa opted for a more economical cotton version from Target,

I said, "Look! It has shiny rhinestones!"

And although she was polite about it, she said that Santa must have misunderstood her request.

haha.

Actually, Santa knew Lily had been invited to join the team and he'd be paying for a shiny team leotard soon enough.

All this to say, that when that suit finally arrived, Lily was happy.

S.U.P.E.R happy.

These photos were her request, and of course she struck all her own poses.

(and then Roman got in on the action)

My little girl in the shiny suit is something else!

Love her.

Conference Weekend

2011-04-05T18:35:00.000-07:00

(doing daddy's hair)

(dear lily, it's not a coincidence that Elder Quentin L. Cook was the speaker when this picture was taken,

he delivered a beautiful message about women)

(practice a little casting)

(Roman enjoying his crumb cake Sunday morning)

(this was a Family Home Evening activity from last Monday...

we read stories about the leaders of our church, and took turns drawing pictures to remind us of the stories.

They used these papers during conference to help identify the speakers :)

Conference Weekend is always a favorite.

We listen to inspired messages on both Saturday and Sunday.

We spend the days together. Eat yummy food.

I feel the Holy Spirit so strongly in our home during this time.

There is no where else I'd rather be.

It's really such a good good feeling.

There were so many wonderful talks, but one really stands out to me.

Earlier in the week, I listened to an interview with Elder Scott and his daughter.

It was an amazing interview and they covered his fascinating life from boyhood on.

But there was one part that was so very interesting to me.

He addressed a question about why he has chosen not to remarry after his wife's passing.

His answer was touching, and very personal.

(skip to minute 20 in the interview if you want to hear that part)

It made such an impact on me.

So Sunday morning, I was excited to listen to Elder Scott's address.

Wow, wow, wow.

It did not disappoint.

He talked about pure love, and the joy of eternal families.

Again, he shared very personal experiences.

He spoke of his sweet wife, and a son who died as a young child.

Really, there were so many messages embedded in his talk.

But personally, I left with an overwhelming gratitude for the knowledge

that because of a loving Father in Heaven and His divine plan,

my marriage and my family are eternal.

Although I am far from achieving the kind of love and joy

Elder Scott spoke about, it certainly increased my desire to nurture

those relationships...

and helped me realize that if I spend every last minute of my life trying...

it will be worth it.

These are a few of my favorite things...

2011-04-01T13:25:00.000-07:00

ummmm. ummm.

Limonata, fish and ondansetron.

Each quite vital to the first 15 weeks of my pregnancy.

Yes. Baby #4.

For the record, this pregnancy is SO DIFFERENT from any of my others.

Prior to this pregnancy I hadn't puked since 2nd grade.

And that is no joke.

Also no joke, is that I honestly hadn't visited a Long John Silvers or a Captain D's...

ever?

But shoot. I have found myself in the drive through more than once lately.

Too tired to make myself something fishy...their grilled tilapia with a side of broccoli is heavenly.

The important thing is that the nausea/pukes are slowly going away.

Slowly...but surely.

I'm due at the end of September.

Considering the baby that stayed put the longest was still 2 weeks early,

I'm mentally preparing for the middle of September.

But heck, everything is so different...maybe I'll be 2 weeks late?

We are super excited to welcome this little bundle to our family, whenever he/she gets here.

I understand that by posting this on April 1st, one might believe it's a prank.

But those who live here can vouch for the fact that I've spent the last 3 months on my couch...

I don't have the energy to photoshop or procure fake medicine bottles for an April Fool's joke,

I've been on my couch afterall.

xoxo

My son the pacifist.

2011-03-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

Roman is at that age.

He knows exactly what he wants,

and realizes that many times he is powerless to get his way.

Enter: the two-year-old-tantrum.

But Roman has certainly perfected the whole thing.

Because he doesn't really know how to throw a true tantrum.

He doesn't whine, or scream, or kick his legs like most of his peers.

Instead, if something is unsatisfactory to the point of tantrum,

he drops prostrate to the ground...

squeezes his eyes shut as tightly as they will go...

and then doesn't move a muscle.

not a sound.

for at least a minute.

(or until you giggle)

Various surface materials are of no concern to him.

Concrete, tile, carpet, linoleum...it's all the same really.

And for some reason, besides being totally amused by it,

and madly in love with the little guy for it,

every time I see him do this I can't help but think...

he would have made an outstanding addition to the civil rights movement.

Happy Birthday to me!

2011-03-22T13:34:00.000-07:00

(the remains of our St. Patrick's Day cake, but a festive stand-in for a picture-less post)

I have a lot of updating to do here in this little online journal.

BIG things, but one at a time I suppose.

I turned 30!

I feel great. And not sad, weird or old.

(I tease my husband because he did not like turning 30)

It's a milestone sure, one that I am more than happy to make.

I celebrated with my family on Sunday,

and went on a hot date with my husband yesterday (my actual birthday).

We ate fish (thankyouverymuch) and then he took me shopping.

When I got home I discovered my mom had folded the mountain of laundry

that was piling up in my home.

And that right there could have been the best birthday gift ever.

Wait, I lie.

I received two emails from my parents,

both expressing their feelings and memories of the day I was born.

March 21, 1981.

30 years ago.

Time flies.

Second only to Micheal Jordan

2011-03-15T19:08:00.000-07:00

Zach's basketball coach was patient, organized and enthusiastic. At the very first practice he said, "Welcome parents, our team's name is going to be "Chaos"...and you'll see why in just a minute."

It was a great season. I could hardly handle the cuteness of those little kids lined up in their shorts and shoes.

Zach took everything very, very seriously.

(including the gatorade and snack afterwards:)

He practiced hard and couldn't wait for Saturday games.

And he loved watching his uncle Kyle (who plays in college) each week as well.

He knows every player's name and number.

You could say that basketball has been on his brain this winter.

As evidenced by one of my favorite things Zachary has ever said.

While driving with David he commented thoughtfully,

"Dad, Micheal Jordan is the #1 basketball player in the whole world.

Then #2 would probably be mom.

And Kyle is #3.

(pause)

Actually, Kyle might be #2 because he is a boy."

Ahhh, to think that in his mind, (if only for a moment), I am second to Micheal Jordan.

I love it.

The BEST kind of "before" and "afters"

2011-03-07T14:34:00.000-08:00

I don't often post shoots I do for other people, but I keep coming back to these cheerful colors and that beautiful little boy.

Congrats Angela and Matt!

MCI -> LAS -> PDX -> MCI

2011-02-25T08:12:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed my Monday to Monday get-a-way...

hopping from climate to climate to see some beautiful friends.

I didn't take a picture, but I loved staying in Katherine's gorgeous home and eating her homemade pizza, shopping for decor, talking, catching up and generally enjoying a warm Las Vegas winter.

Next up, Portland.

We all agreed our husbands rock,

and let us enjoy a weekend away.

We visited the temple together,

rented an incredible beach house,

and generally had no plans except for lots of shopping, eating and talking.

Being surrounded by talented, compassionate and smart women was so wonderful.

I am so blessed to call them friends.

Memories to last a lifetime for sure.

One more thing...

I remember the transition from single to married...no kids to mother...

and each time, there was a period of realizing that my "me time" was

getting a tad bit smaller.

(close to non-existent these days?)

So having a week,

A GLORIOUS WEEK

to myself was lovely.

lovely, lovely, lovely.

But it was also just enough time to miss my children,

and miss sharing a bed with my husband,

and realize that although a girl needs time away,

my life here is pretty good too.

PDA

2011-02-14T07:52:00.001-08:00

...in a few minutes I'll be heading off for a get-a-way trip thanks to my thoughtful husband.

And so, because he's great, and it's Valentine's Day (and we will be apart) I wanted to steal away and record a little something that means a lot to me.

Last week I walked into my room and saw David sitting at the head of the bed, facing the nightstand, and sorta hunched over. I assumed he was doing something on his phone, I grabbed my magazine and left the room. An hour later I came back and he was still there. Same position. So, I said in the wifey-condescending way I am so good at, "Are you seriously STILL on your phone?" He looked up and I saw a needle and thread in his hands. oops. He hadn't been playing games, there he was stitching up one of my cardigans that had a hole in it. I apologized for being so rude and I told him I was so grateful that he had thought to stitch my cardigan. I thanked him over and over. How nice that he would notice that! But over the course of the week, I realized that he had stitched much more than just my cardigan. He had put a button on a blouse, sewn up a pair of pants that had a few holes, and even a new sock that I received for Christmas had been repaired. All in all, there were about 7 items of my clothing that he fixed for me. I couldn't believe it. First, that he even KNEW which clothing needed repair (it's not like I put them all in a pile, or ever said anything to him about it), and second, that he was so thoughtful to spend his evening doing that.

And so to my David Painter,

I love you.

What a wonderful wonderful gift.

It truly means more to me than 4 dozen roses and a fancy Valentine's dinner.

You are so good to me, and I love you more each year.

All my love,

Tara

good luck this week!

(and if you're local, he's accepting dinner invitations haha!)

Zachary is 6!

2011-02-02T18:07:00.000-08:00

Zachary's 6th birthday bash was a Lego party.

Very fitting for the boy who wakes up 1.5 hours before school in order to play with Legos.

We had fun gathering ideas for the party. (so much inspiration here)

Zach was able to help assemble the invitations, and deliver them.

More than once I overheard him tell the invitee to please share the jellybeans with their siblings.

He's always been a thoughtful kid.

At the party, we played a Lego-drop game, and pin-the-lego game.

But the big hit was a homemade Lego piñata that David created.

It was a pull-string piñata he rigged up out of a cardboard box, swimming noodle and spray paint.

And it certainly was my favorite part.

Worked like a CHARM, and the kids giggled with anticipation at each string pulled.

We sang and ate cake, opened presents and admired Zachary's new toys.

Although our little home was stuffed to the brim with party people,

I'd say it was a success.

Happy, Happy Birthday to Zachary!

yesterday i took a nap...

2011-01-27T09:25:00.000-08:00

and woke up with two little squirrels in my bed. I took each picture from the comfort of my pillow, and didn't bother to sit up. This, more often than not, is my view in the morning too.

Sweet boy who sucks his thumb,

and has smoochable lips,

brought his own cake. He sang to himself and blew out the candles too!

He's a heart-breaker for sure.

My little love so full of feeling.

She pulled all these faces in a matter of seconds.

watch out.

A sunny afternoon in January.

The big 3-0

2011-01-24T12:52:00.000-08:00

David turned 30, and to celebrate, I threw a party.

My parents (out of town) offered their home, and we packed it in with dear friends and food.

There was a shuffleboard tournament and David-trivia quiz.

The after-party got pretty crazy with the Kinect Dance game. oh yeah we did.

David would like me to state for the record that he won his Dance Battle

(Soulja boy - level medium)

Apparently, the boy has moves.

It was a great night, and I really wish I would have taken more time to photograph.

So on Sunday, I told him I needed a picture to document 30 years.

We aren't exactly dolled up...

but it's us.

Happy 30th Birthday my love.

Baaa-d and good.

2011-01-17T20:25:00.000-08:00

Oh what a week.

Has it been a week?

There are a lot of things I'd like to forget about the last 7 days.

Mostly, the stomach flu.

But here is one I want to remember.

Family Home Evening. These are Ammon's sheep...cute right?

Toilet paper roll - cottonball - q-tip - elmer's glue - black bean eyed sheep. legit.

We've been following along with plans found here.

(so organized, so theme-tastic, so perfect for my kids ages)

But if you want to know the truth. Last week was about the Tree of Life.

We held on to the iron rod and were rewarded with all manner of (gummy) fruit.

It haunts me.

Because it turns out gummy fruit throw up is incredibly disgusting.

(darn that red #40)

And there I go again, back to the stomach flu.

It's going to be hard to forget.

Snow Day

2011-01-10T21:16:00.000-08:00

Lots of snow.

No school.

Sledding.

Hot chocolate.

It's good to be a kid.

Fresh starts

2011-01-03T18:23:00.000-08:00

Winter break is over, and tomorrow it's back to school.

At dinner, David asked Zachary if he was excited for school and to

"get back into the swing of things".

Zachary said very matter-of-factly, "Dad, we don't even have swings at our school".

True, true.

But seriously, I'm a mother hen at heart.

I love when all my chicks are together, all day long.

Sure, it's been louder, and probably more chaotic, but it's been fun.

As part of our last hurrah today, we planted paperwhites.

A pot for each babe.

While they were making the mess, and arranging their bulbs,

I thought about how fast paperwhites grow.

It's incredible really.

My my, how appropriate.

I feel the same way about my little sweeties.

**tip of the day**

these paperwhite kits (that come in a great silver, red or cream planter) are on Christmas clearance at Target. But they aren't with the Christmas clearance. They are hiding in the Smith & Hawken aisle. Some stores haven't even posted the sign, but they ring up at $2.49.

The planter alone is totally worth it!

Lily's time to shine

2010-12-29T07:40:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, Lily had her "Christmas Extravaganza!"
(i just like saying the name of it).
It was basically a "meet-like" performance for the littlest gymnasts.
She was well supported by all her grandmas, grandpas, aunts, uncles and cousins.
We cheered like crazy and Lily loved performing in front of everyone.
She had her tongue in the side of her cheek the whole time, the only sign of shyness she showed.
I think she was trying really hard not to smile too much. haha.
She absolutely loves her gymnastics classes, (and because I know nothing about gymnastics), I think everything she does is astounding, impressive and amazing!
go go go my little girlie!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T21:01:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling so much peace this evening, and for that I am grateful.
This season is wonderful, and having my little ones around makes it magical.
We've read books, opened the advent boxes, delivered goodies, visited Santa and prepared a manger for the baby Jesus (adding a piece of straw for each kind deed done).
We've listend to our pandora (Classical Christmas) station all month long, and read the accounts of Christs birth in our Bible and Book of Mormon.

And now the children are asleep, Santa's cookies are nibbled, the reindeer devoured the carrots, and the Christmas tree will stay lit all night long.

Sometimes you think it's only kids who stay awake with merriment on Christmas Eve, but as I've discovered, parents do too.

Much love from our home to yours
and
Merry, Merry Christmas

xo
the Painters

View from the Little Pink Camera

2010-12-19T16:19:00.000-08:00

December is flying by with all the busyness and merriment that I could possibly hope for. And while I've been away from the computer, I've also neglected my camera. Other than Lily's gymnastics meet, and a photoshoot, my camera's been zipped up inside the bag. LILY TO THE RESCUE! Dave and I were seriously rolling with laughter tonight when we uploaded the 300+ pictures from her pink and trusty little camera sidekick. I can't even begin to describe how perfectly she has captured this Christmas season, and how seriously difficult it was to narrow down her pictures. Oh my gosh, please enjoy.

(by the way, all clipart added by Lily in camera)

Our elf on the shelf (named Essa) is the first thing they search for each morning.

our Christmas tree

best.photo.ever

a pattern emerged...Roman in the car...we've been in the car a lot

Basketball in December...a Sloan institution...

here I am at Kyle's basketball game

"Uuuuunnnnnstopable!"

After Kyle's game, we hit up a burger joint, and Lily had us all pose for a group photo

Kyle fell asleep on our couch one Sunday, and Lily thought he needed her cuddly dragon, (and a reindeer headband)

Good morning sleepy-heads

What she was doing instead of napping...posing babydoll and puppy

I'm in so many pictures!! it's amazing!

cute baby Alexis, while we watch Zachary's basketball practice

the Rapp's in town, and a fun girls night hosted by Lori!

it's my favorite thing...

2010-12-04T09:01:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure why, but looking at the Christmas-card-photo-rejects is my favorite thing to do.

It might be because every year I decide last minute, LAST MINUTE that "today's the day!" for pictures.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010 (37 degrees outside)

1:15 - "Hey Margaret, what are you doing around 3:30 today? Wanna snap a picture for me?"

1:17 - "Hey Babe, what time are you getting home today? ummm, well, think you could reschedule and be home at 2:45?"

...shower....iron...run around like crazy...

2:10 - (Zach home early from school) "Kids, Kids!! No time for playing, it's PICTURE DAY!"

...brush teeth, dress kids, comb hair...

3:00 - in the car...where should we go to take a picture?

...really bad lighting...

...oops...modesty check....

...150 photos and three locations/two photographers later...

It's a wrap.

Time to blow off some steam.

Until next year my loves.

Tomorrow's the day!

2010-11-30T12:44:00.000-08:00

Ring pops, Bubbletape, Christmas tree cakes, Juicy Drop-Outs, Kit Kats, Push Pops, peanut butter cups, Kisses, and chocolate santas...it's the stuff (my kids) dreams are made of. Tomorrow kicks off our official count-down, and I am all sorts of excited. I love to hear their squeals when they discover what is hiding in those boxes. Toothbrushes are ready!

a fall full of football

2010-11-21T20:16:00.000-08:00

Football at our house is over. (ahhhhhhh)

We've had practice Tuesday and Thursday since August...and games on Saturday.

This league doesn't mess around.

(for the record, I wanted to sign Zach up for the YMCA version of flag football...it's a little (ok, a lot) less intense, but I let his father make the final decision :)

I'll admit, he made a good choice.

David was probably more concerned with the actual teaching of football skills...but I was most encouraged by the details. I loved that they called each boys name as they ran onto the field at the beginning of games, I loved homecoming festivities complete with parade down to our home field!

David also played in a competitive flag league this fall.

The best part was hearing Zach shout strategy from the sidelines. ha!

(Zachary's Kindergarten School Picture)

On Friday Zach was excited to tell me about his day at school.

He said the principal announced his name over the intercom and he got to pick a dog tag from the office. He showed me the dog tag and was beaming ear to ear.

I read the engraving on one side of the tag, "caught being good"

I told him, "it says you were caught being good Zachary! That's so great honey, what was it that you did to be picked for this award?"

And continuing with his biggest smile ever he said,

"I have no idea."

Where credit is due

2010-11-14T19:27:00.000-08:00

Last week David spent an entire day painting furniture for me.

We're swapping rooms around here.

It's a lot of work to decorate on a shoestring budget,

but David is always willing to make my dreams come true :)

Oh, and it was also deer hunting weekend.

So he was just scoring some extra points

and ensuring I had nothing to whine about while he was gone.

(It worked.)

I've started to assemble the rooms,

and there is a lot left to do.

But boy oh boy, it's my favorite thing..."setting up".

Just ask my mom, who swears I never never actually played house as a little girl.

She says I spent the whole time setting up my kitchen.

I annoyed more than one playmate, and some sisters too I'm sure.

**Lily's beautiful bed is an antique from craigslist,

and the detail shot is her polka-dot duvet cover and fabric for a pillow...

(that has yet to be made).**

Time...

2010-11-10T19:39:00.000-08:00

It's been a year since I took these photographs (link to old photos).

So it was time, it seems, for an update.

Tonight, I just want to share a small sentiment that has been marinating in my mind all day. It's a mash-up of two different experiences. Today I thought about how much better I am feeling, (and how long I was sick) and began to make a list of all the things I've been wanting to tackle, that have been on hold for a week +. And then this afternoon I prepared food for dear friends who are in the process of saying goodbye to their father.

It's not that the two are related, because one is supremely more significant than the other, but it was the combination of processes that impressed my soul.

Tonight I am full of gratitude for my blessings.

for eternal marriage

for my beautiful babies

for each and every day i have on this earth

...to learn, to grow, to serve.

I hope to fill the frames with those sweet faces for many many years to come.

But I also understand that there are no guarantees.

Life is beautiful, and sometimes I'm reminded, fragile.

It's a spectacular thing to remember.

Because it elevates each simple and small moment.

Life.

moment.

Crawling out of bed.

2010-11-08T12:03:00.000-08:00

It is not an exaggeration to say that I spent the majority of last week in bed.

yuck.

The first week of November...gonzo.

And so, this is from the last bit of October.

We celebrated my grandfather's birthday in St. Louis.

(and below...the hotel. Arguably the kids FAVORITE part.)

Two blankets and one thumb.

And then, there was that sunny Friday in October when we snuck off to the zoo.

Roman was fascinated. He really really loved it all.

And we saw the new Polar Bear Plunge exhibit.

I think it was everyone's favorite.

Oh, the energy I had.

I am trying to get it back.

Halloween

2010-10-31T17:13:00.000-07:00

I love this photograph.

I feel like it says so much about my kids ages (and maybe a touch of personality too).

This was taken at our ward party last weekend, about 2 minutes into the donut game.

The game where you can't use your hands to eat the donut on a string.

Zach stands there, no bite thus far, but patiently going at it.

And Lily, well, she doesn't suffer fools gladly.

She's taken matters into her own hands, literally.

Zachary's kindergarten Halloween party was last Wednesday, and I was in charge of the craft.

We made these little owl cookie pops. Fun and cute. (made from a moon pie!)

We spent the weekend in St. Louis for my grandfather's 80th birthday party.

It was a wonderful time.

I got back this afternoon and was feeling horrible.

So sick, I slept for 6 hours.

And now here it is Halloween night.

I'm afraid I won't get a decent picture of their costumes this year,

(maybe I can convince them to dress up tomorrow?)

and tomorrow is November 1st.

I can think of two radio stations that will be playing Christmas music.

This time of year goes so quickly, and I do love it.

She's got a way

2010-10-28T11:57:00.000-07:00

I took Roman and Lily to the Deanna Rose Farmstead one more time this year.

Lily got a bottle of milk to feed the baby goats, and she marched right in there.

She wanted to give each animal a taste, but those baby goats, they don't like to share.

She'd say, "That's enough! You are done now!"

She didn't let those baby goats bully her,

"NO FIGHTING!" and, "DON'T eat my sweater!" she exclaimed.

Reminded me of a video from the farmstead earlier this spring...

"DON'T BE MAD AT THE ANIMALS!"

...and Zach, well, he's sad at the end because he's just been pushed (by goats) into their water.

Two Rocks

2010-10-22T22:08:00.000-07:00

It was a no school Friday so we made a trip down to Montrose, Missouri to visit Dave's mom and step-dad. On the road I spent the whole time reading Town and Country and Harper's Bazaar Magazines. Just when I thought I'd reached my limit of overly sexed advertisements for expensive watches and perfume...I turned the page and saw a naked man covering his groin with a cologne bottle. No really, I almost spit out my water in a fit of laughter. That man, he's alive somewhere on this globe, and what in the world would he think about fishing, and rifles, and hot dogs, and pears from a tree in the middle of Missouri? Oh the dichotomy. I wonder what a life glamorized in those glossy pages would feel like. I'll be honest, I haven't a clue. But all day long the sky was soft and cloudy and the wind was blowing. The open expanses invited introspection. There are certainly endless ways to fill a day. I feel refreshed and peaceful tonight, so I'm content with the way I filled mine.

young love.

2010-10-14T19:46:00.000-07:00

Photographs of my beautiful friend Tiffany and her sweet Ryder.

(two weeks! she looks amazing and I am speechless!)

It's quite wonderful this life cycle we are apart of.

Tomorrow morning I am going on my first field trip where my role is parent volunteer.

I've been on lots of field trips...

as a student

as a student teacher

as a teacher

and now here I am, the parent.

For the first time I get to skip the bus and take my own car.

Finally, I have arrived.

Apples taste so good when you eat them on a farm.

2010-10-06T19:43:00.000-07:00

Oh boy. Life is busy...but good.

Today though...today was not busy.

Today was just what the doctor ordered.

Today Zachary had an early release day, and David called it quits too.

We loaded up in the car and wandered around all afternoon.

We visited the Red Barn Farm and snacked on apples.

We found a new-to-us park, played and threw rocks in the pond.

We got thirsty and picked up our favorite drinks.

We went to Nebraska Furniture Mart

(largest home furnishing store in North America...hugeness)

and drove the kids all around in the car shaped strollers...

we pretended to look at furniture, but mostly, we were playing bumper cars...

and riding in the glass elevators.

It was a good day.

I love my family.

Date Night

2010-09-25T19:34:00.000-07:00

Nothing like date night to remember why I love this guy so much.

It's nice to step away from the daily grind, for a bit.

A simple evening out, but it felt so decadent.

No negotiating, eat one more bite then you can have your soda.

No threatening, if you don't get out from under the table, you will go to bed when we get home.

No tag-team, you go wash his hands and I'll take them to the car.

Instead,

table for two!

spicy cajun food!

band so loud you have to talk into each others ear!

order from the dessert menu!

And somewhere along the way I remember...

BEST thing I ever did was marry David Painter.

I got nothin'

2010-09-21T09:36:00.000-07:00

P.S. if you want to pour a lot of love into a cake for someone special...THIS one will surely do the trick, DELICIOUS! Happy Birthday Kyle!

Honestly, it was one of those weeks. The kind that leaves you exhausted from all the thinking, and from all the feeling. And I'm not talking 'oh that's a bummer' type stuff, more, eternal consequence type stuff. But don't you know it, life keeps on all around you. And I've kept on too. But as I look at the pictures I have taken this week (all for my class) I see that it looks just like any other week. So it's a good reminder for me. That sometimes, when I am out in the world (or out in blog-land) there are surely some people who are only just surviving. Keeping on, if you will. It makes me want to be a little softer, more gentle, and smile a lot more.

One more warm evening.

2010-09-13T19:25:00.000-07:00

First things first.

I'm so happy to have a picture of this familiar summer scene.

Many, many, many of our summer mornings, afternoons and evenings looked just like this.

Tonight could very well be the last night a run through the sprinkler is possible.

Goodbye summer 2010!

These photographs are actually my homework.

Finally, I am getting around to taking my first photography class.

And I am loving it so much.

All of these pictures are straight out of my camera. Not an ounce of post processing.

I don't even have Photoshop anyway.

Certainly, that is nothing to boast about, because heaven knows I'd love to have Photoshop.

And even more, know how to use it. Sparingly of course :)

Not that these pictures are some sort of photographic ideal

(i'll probably cringe in another year and see all the mistakes I made)...

But just for kicks I switched my camera to auto-mode for a comparison.

Example below.

Not gonna lie.

It feels good to be a little smarter than my 'fancy' camera!

Happy Birthday Lily!

2010-09-07T10:53:00.000-07:00

(biting her lip and looking shy while we sing happy birthday to her...and the party hat...blown off by wind)

I think this might have been my most favorite party yet.

Admittedly, I spent a lot of time planning. It's what I like to do, and I sort of hope it will add a little magic to their childhood memories. So, I filled 3 sheets of paper with menu ideas, decor lists and sketches of what the dessert table would look like. My mom and I hand stitched a fabric flower garland, and I bought Martha's white cake plate especially for the strawberry cake. This is what I dreamed up in my head: A strawberry themed party for family at the park. Eighty pink and red streamers gently swaying in the breeze, each table would have 3 helium filled strawberry balloons (heart-shaped balloons with green crepe paper toppers cut to fit). Finally, the piece de resistance would be the cake table...decorated thoughtfully (and symmetrically) with platters of homemade goodies.

And then, a small dose of reality.

Wind Advisory. 40 mph gusts of wind.

When I arrived at the park, David had been laboring over those eighty (gently swaying) streamers, but it actually sounded more like a used car lot as they whipped around frantically in the wind. The strawberry balloons lost their tops and most broke free from their strings, the handmade goodies never quite made it out of the storage containers for fear they would fly away too. The hand stitched garland stayed in it's box until halfway through the party my mom helped tape it up. We had to duck tape the kids plates to the table as they ate lunch, and well, there was just no use in even attempting to light candles in that kind of weather.

But you know what, it was fun.

A lot of fun.

It was nice to let go of party perfection and just enjoy a (windy) BBQ at the park.

And now, Miss Lily is four. She's been pampered with a mani/pedi, signed up for more gymnastics, and showered with strawberry shortcake and littlest pet shop toys from the people who love her most...her family.

A lesson for mom in what is most important...

Check that off the list.

A penny saved...

2010-08-26T18:39:00.000-07:00

I've experimented with many many different ways to conserve money.

Makes me chuckle to think about all the things I have tried.

Mostly though, I'm encouraged by the valuable deals.

Yet the fact is, no one really cares. I'm sure my husband appreciates it, but I have a hunch he is feigning interest when I display my loot on the island and declare, "LOOK! Look what I got for $2.34!"

And so it goes with the laundry soap.

I've been making my own for almost a year.

It works, is amazingly economical, is not a difficult process, and I've upgraded the look from a 5 gallon Lowes bucket to pretty glass bottles. (recycled $1.50 Heinz vinegar bottles)

Oh, I have a feeling that picture of soap will send me down memory lane in about 30 years.

Ahhhh yes, those days of business start up, making soap and clipping coupons.

And speaking of memory lane, I hope this is one I will never forget.

Last week I hopped into bed next to Lily after she was asleep.

I kept staring at her sweet little pigtail,

thinking about what an amazing perk it is to be able to

crawl into bed for a nap on a sunny afternoon next to my little 3 year old.

If I have to make soap the rest of my life...so be it.

First Day of Kindergarten

2010-08-18T07:34:00.000-07:00

If there is one thing I want to remember,

it's Zach's level of excitement and happiness on his first day of kindergarten.

He took the obligatory photographs, and didn't ever stop smiling in between shots.

I walked him into school and to the kindergarten hallway

(stopping, per school rules, before I got to his classroom :)

I gave him a little squeeze and said, "I love you, have a great day!"

(my voice might have cracked a bit, but I kept a smile) and he was off.

He started down that corridor, and turned around just once with a big big smile. (I caught it!)

Then, he didn't look back again. Past the drinking fountains and into his classroom.

I'm not sure how I made it out of that building what with the blurry vision.

Ahhhhh, rough stuff for a sensitive soul.

I'll go ahead and say it, I'm sensitive.

Hard as I tried to avoid it, I tortured myself all day with thoughts of what was.

Taking naps with tiny baby Zachary, sprawled out on white sheets in our sunny room.

Who would sneak in at first peep to get Roman out of his crib?

And Lily, well, she's a little lost without her best bud.

8 hours is a loooooong time.

But then he came home. And he loved it.

Loved it with a capital L.

I'm going to love it too. (eventually)

Just as I've loved every other step along the way.

(In his own words...)

a video for grandmas, grandpas, aunts and uncles!

An ending. And a beginning.

2010-08-16T20:44:00.000-07:00

I'm not even going to try to aim for 'well written' on this post.

My emotions are running a bit high for that.

Tomorrow is the first day of school.

Kindergarten.

One the one hand, I'm excited, and looking forward to all the new opportunities.

And on the other hand, I'm devastated.

But enough about me.

I asked Zach what he wanted to do.

Our last day of summer looked like this...

Morning spent at Penguin Park.

Special lunch at McDonalds (with a toy!)

Zach helped make lasagna and chocolate cake while the littles napped.

Last minute haircut.

Back to school dinner.

Father's Blessings for Family Home Evening.

(Zachary hugged David for a full minute after the blessing...David's eyes were full of tears)

Bath.

Pack the lunch.

Family Prayer and tuck in.

And now I need to get into bed.

But I doubt I will sleep.

Gawden tomatoes are best.

2010-08-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

David picked up the kids from their primary classes on Sunday.

Lily's teacher shared a story. She said,

"Lily is so funny. Today she raised her hand to say, 'Tomatoes from the gawden taste so much better than tomatoes from the gwocery store.'"

And Lily would know. She's got the twist and pull method for harvesting down pat, and she shakes exactly one pinch of salt on each slice.

I agree Lily. I agree.

Roman James Painter

2010-08-06T06:12:00.000-07:00

It all started because I was trying to prepare dinner. Roman was pulling on my legs and whimpering at my feet. If there is one combination that sends me to the zero patience zone, it's whiny children during dinner prep. So I thought, "You know what kid? Have at it!" I plopped him down in the highchair with a spoon and a bowl of luke warm refried beans. Ahhhh, peace and quiet. After everything was chopped and sizzling on the stove, I headed over to feed the baby. In one fluid motion, I plucked the spoon from his hands and scooped a bite for the little starving guy. Finally, my eyes settled on him for the first time, his hands were frozen in the air. He looked at me incredulously and dropped his little head on the tray. Roman screamed and cried and kicked his legs at my audacity. I made a big big mistake. He was eating...with a spoon...for the first time...by himself...and I interrupted. So I put the spoon back in his hands and softly encouraged him to keep going. His little 16 month old tantrum tears dried up in a nanosecond and he was back at work. I sat on a stool across from him and watched for a few moments. This time I thought, "You know what kid? What sort of person would I be without you? I love you so much!" I promised myself to slow down a little, and to pay attention a lot more.

Today we made cupcakes.

2010-08-02T20:56:00.000-07:00

We made cupcakes for a friend

(happy birthday margaret!)

My taste testers consumed one this morning.

But after the crumb-y mess,

we took the second one outside following dinner.

I think Lily's unprovoked expression of cupcake joy sums it up.

Cupcakes are good.

Stream of consciousness...

2010-07-28T19:05:00.000-07:00

I'm nervous that my sister Anna is going to be disappointed with this post. I doubt this is what she had in mind when she pulled up the blog on her phone tonight and told me she needed something new to read :)

I've started with the back to school dreams. Except this time it's not me who is standing naked in the halls. I've morphed into the mother role. (of course) And in my last dream, I realized school was starting the following day and I had not bought Zachary his school supplies, and I didn't know what his bus number or who his teacher was. Those are horrible dreams. It's such a miserable feeling.

This blog has officially been kept for 3 years. And while it is certainly not a comprehensive record of my thoughts or our family doings...it's something. And it really, really makes me smile.

I won! Or at least that is the feeling I have about my latest craigslist-ing adventures. I saw the iron and wood table and thought the lines looked similar to THIS one. Plus it was $965 cheaper. And that mirror was an old wooden mirror (with cat claw scratches) that I scooped up and decided to gold leaf. fun times. It's not a great picture because (1) the angle...you can't tell how long the table really is, and you can't really see the mirror (2) we don't actually have an entry way...so it is a bit out of place here in our rental (3) it's not styled yet. But that's the fun part for me. I'm sure I'll spend the next few months trying to figure out exactly what I want.

But you know what I really want? I want to jump off a cliff. No I'm serious. I sort of want to do something crazy and wild and fun again. With David. We used to jump off cliffs or what about that time we pulled the rip cord ride and dropped 190 feet...free fall, or swam in those caves in Maui or hiked that tiny trail on the edge of a mountain in Colorado. And because we knew each other when we were teenagers, the list of stupid/ridiculous activities we participated in (or snuck around to do) is long. And laughable. Like..."Hey, remember that time when we were making out in the creek and...". Yeah. Stuff like that. I'm not sure what spurred this on. Maybe I've bought one too many boxes of diapers lately, or maybe it was the roller coasters at the amusement park last weekend. I guess I need to shake it up a bit.

"Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, 'What! You too? I thought I was the only one." - C.S. Lewis

2010-07-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

The Woods are friends from the original Kansas City era. Pre-blog. (pre-Painter home computer)

Our kids drooled on the same toys, and it was parallel play. At least that's what the books told us.

Those days were good. So good. Katherine and I were new-ish moms. We met at the pool, the park, our houses...the kind of friend you can call last minute and say, come over, we need to talk. And talk we did, about our pregnancies, our kids milestones and our futures and of course...home decor.

We both shipped out of Kansas City about the same time, but lucky for me, they stopped back by this weekend.

Our kids played (nonstop),

we talked until 3 am,

and on Monday, our husbands took over child duty so we could make a pilgrimage to our old favorite home decor stomping ground. Nell Hill's.

Luckily, some things don't change.

Nauvoo

2010-07-14T21:57:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend in Nauvoo, on the banks of the Mississippi.

We played old fashioned children's games,

enjoyed the magnificent pageant,

jumped on hotel beds,

and felt peace in the temple.

For me, Nauvoo is always a deeply personal experience.

The city has been meticulously restored.

But this time it was the raw scenery that humbled me.

hilltop views

ditches

that wide river

Respectively, they whisper evidence of

faith

industry

and fortitude.

This trip came at the perfect time for me.

I love Nauvoo.

Lily Anne Painter

2010-07-10T20:57:00.000-07:00

My little Lily-lou-do.

The last picture strikes me the most.

I think I can see her 4 year old self peaking through.

Thursday we ran errands together. Just the girls. We talked and talked and talked some more. She had me find "beautiful music" on the radio (which is what she calls classical music) and then wanted me to tell her all the instruments that were playing in the piece. It's our little routine lately. We bought polka dotted sunglasses, and she carried her pink pony in her skirt pocket all afternoon.

I love her. I love her. My little girl is perfection.

(posting from somewhere in rural Missouri...we're heading back from a weekend spent in Nauvoo. Ahhhh despite my resistance, sometimes, technology wins.)

As I sit here writing this post 2 full days after July 4th...there are fireworks exploding outside. it's 11 pm. i'm dead serious.

2010-07-06T20:46:00.000-07:00

I'm not gonna lie. The weather this weekend was the pits. Saturday and Sunday were full of heavy clouds and rain. Big bummer for all those Independence day plans. In fact, Sunday night at the peak-9:30-boom-time...it was pouring. But don't worry, it didn't stop Kansas Citians. We were named 3rd most patriotic city by Men's Health Magazine. (ha!) Of course one of the criteria they used to determine this important status was the sale of fireworks and US flags. I'll vouch for the firework sales. Those colorful tents pop up in vacant lots every year at the end of June. (who am I kidding...more like the end of May!) I have awesome memories of going with my dad to these overcrowded tents and spending a silly amount of money on fireworks. So Dave and I took the kids this year. I planned a mini lesson complete with flag facts and coloring. It was cute and fun, but let's be honest...sparklers, tanks, smoke bombs and snappers totally won out.

He's always thinking about me...

2010-07-03T07:29:00.000-07:00

My husband did something sweet. Our anniversary is coming up and he rented a lens for my camera. I always talk about renting the lenses I've been thinking about in hopes of deciding which one suits me, but I just never follow through. I put it off because I think there are other more important things that need our money right now. But he doesn't see it that way. I love him for that. And it makes me wish I was more supportive of his hobbies. :)

It was nap time, so my first subjects were brown eggs. I shot quite a bit yesterday, but of course my favorite pictures don't really showcase the lens' ability very well (or my own quite honestly) but this little series of Roman captured my heart. I think it's the miniature drooly chin surrounded by chubby cheeks. It was dusk, at the park, and he spotted an airplane flying overhead. Going... Going... Gone.

heat index

2010-06-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

This week my weatherman loved to talk about the heat index.

Let's just say it was Hot. And Humid.

And during a Missouri summer those words are capitalized.
Yes sir they are.

My respite is sparkling water.

It's refreshing, I think it must be the bubbles.

And when the heat index is 105,

and it is still only June,

well,

I've earned it.

A Tuesday in June

2010-06-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

9:00 am - moon sand on the deck

10:30 am - using dad's measuring tapes and recording our discoveries 11:00 am - most of us are still in pjs

2:00 pm - quiet time and little man looks out the window6:45 pm - Lily loves gymnastics, especially the popsicle they hand out afterwards7:30 pm - replenishing our supply of jam

Laundry room chalkboard with a reminder to treasure the normal days. I figure this is the perfect placement, because nothing is more ordinary than laundry.

***

Normal day, let me be aware of the treasure you are. Let me learn from you, love you, bless you before you depart. Let me not pass you by in quest of some rare and perfect tomorrow. Let me hold you while I may, for it may not always be so.

One day I shall dig my nails into the earth, or bury my face in my pillow, or stretch myself taut, or raise my hands to the sky and want more than all the world, your return.

-Mary Jean Iron

I've always heard that gardening can teach you a lot about life.

2010-06-17T16:22:00.000-07:00

I've been searching for ideas that make living with vegetables pretty. On a deck these plants take up a lot of room. I say, make those tomato cages earn their keep! What a great idea. Of course carrying out such a project is more difficult than it may appear. When do I have time for frivolous things? If you want to know the nitty-gritty of this DIY, it involves me at the edge of the woods, in the dark, with a flashlight, 4 wire cages and a can of spray paint.

Logistics aside, I find satisfaction in this aspect of motherhood. Finding ways to make our lives a little more comfortable and beautiful is important to me.

After I took these pictures, David called to tell me about a cockroach job he took. In haste he bid a premium price for this time consuming and undesirable task. He wasn't really concerned about getting the work, but the customer agreed. He arrived at the home to find the caller was 17 years old. The teenager met him at the door and showed him the infested house. It was a much larger problem than David had imagined. Through casual conversation David discovered that the boys parents refused to do anything about it, and he just couldn't live like that any longer. He said he wanted to be able to bring his friends over. So he was paying for the treatments, with his own money.

Sometimes my perspective changes so swiftly that it shocks me.

The Lord sees fit to teach me this way.

I see the yellow tomato cages not as a reminder of my clever accomplishments, but a reminder of how very much more there is for me to do.

Zachary Cannon Painter

2010-06-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

The thing is, I know that one day I'll look back at these pictures and be shocked at how little he looks. I'll see a baby face and a full set of baby teeth. I'll be transported back to the days where Ninja Turtles and sidewalk chalk made for a perfect afternoon. But as it stands now, I can hardly comprehend how big my firstborn is. He looks so grown up, ready for school, ready for friends and new adventures. I'm filled with this overwhelming (overwhelming!) gratitude to be his mother. As much as I sometimes wish for him to stay my little guy forever, I'm comforted knowing that I've really, really enjoyed these years we've had together. I've tried my hardest to be present in the moment. And, I am confident all the years ahead of us will be equally wonderful.

Home

2010-06-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

If I'm being honest, there are days where my heart literally hurts from thinking about the life that almost was. I miss the blackberry summers and the girls from Portland, and I dream about the house we wanted to buy, the warm winter and of course, the girls in Houston.

I think, I could have been happy there.

I love my family, they are the best part about being back. But a year later, I am still trying to find my rhythm. I am where I am supposed to be, but I am still wondering what that means.

Earlier this week I stepped out onto my deck after a big storm. It was 8:30 at night and the final bits of sunset were trying desperately to peek through the thunderclouds. It was beautiful. It was peaceful.

I breathed in the green smell.

I looked around and was grateful that this was my personal view of the world.

I'm their aunt...so I can't help myself

2010-06-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

I took these pictures the day before I left for girls camp. I've been dying to get to them since.

I'm BACK! It feels so good. And boy, there are so many stories about the week I just spent in the woods.

Life moves forward at a breakneck speed doesn't it.

There's no waiting around for people without Internet access for over a week.

My husband surprised me by exchanging services with a green home cleaning company. Four girls cleaned my house top to bottom this morning for 4 hours! That's 16 hours of cleaning I'll never do. It's the most pampered I've felt in a long time.

And although I want to write everything down, and spend all day on this computer...there is much to do, and so I leave with the one blessing that's nothing short of a miracle...

I escaped the TICKS! (well, ticks that were attached anyway)

Now, if we can just keep Roman from eating the soil.

2010-05-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

Our little herb garden resides on our deck.
I wish I had my very own dirt, but for now, everything must go inside a pot.
(the mowing crew here is c.r.a.z.y. they run over everything. tree branches/small children)
kidding. but only sort of.
Zach and I planted the herbs during nap time.
It's fun to chat it up while gardening.
I made the little signs from popsicle sticks, paint, and a whiteout pen.
I loved my friend Missy's little garden sign and thought it was perfect.
We have 4 tomato plants and a zucchini too!
An heirloom Mr. Stripey, Patio, Big Boys, and Early Girls.
They are resigned to containers as well.
I'm crossing my fingers, because in my (short) experience tomatoes really prefer the ground.
I hope to prove myself wrong.
Signs for the vegetables are in the works.

Of course Lily got in on the action earlier when we planted flowers out front.
My kids do love to plant.
I think they developed the love because of my mom, who always makes sure
to include them in her flower gardening.
My mom plants annuals every spring. For as long as I can remember.
Her house and deck are always bursting with color.
Yay for flowers, yay for vegetables!

2010-05-24T11:59:00.000-07:00

Roman is walking everywhere. Make that running. Make that crashing.

It's hot. And humid. I'll miss the open windows.

Girls camp in one week!

I'm with the 4th years. We leave camp one day/night for a wilderness hike.

Primitive camping. No fires. Dehydrated food.

I'm excited. I just don't want ticks. Please no ticks. I'll probably get ticks.

Margaret and I had a garage sale last weekend.

Great success! Now my storeroom is more organized than my house.

I've been potting plants.

I've been working on food storage.

I've been making my laundry room so very pretty.

Also, I'm crabby.

I'm going to try my hardest to not be crabby.

Sometimes it's just hard.

Pretty

2010-05-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

Roses from Mother's Day.

A week later.

I like when they are almost spent.

I think it's their prettiest time.

Invisibility is love's most beautiful costume.

2010-05-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

I have magical childhood memories. We played in the creek that ran through our yard, catching crawdads and building forts in the woods. Hot summer days brought banana seat bikes, and lemonade stands. But it wasn't really until this mother's day that I began to contemplate what my own mother was doing on those days that I was relishing childhood.

And finally, now that I am a mother, and in charge of trimming 40 fingernails and toenails each week have I begun to piece together what it was that filled her days. Oh yes, now I understand very well and I wonder how in the world I didn't see it before.

I read The Invisible Woman, When Only God Sees last week. Recommended by my friend Christy, it was perfect timing.

There were so many memorable parts. I loved this one especially.

Next Thanksgiving I don't want my son to tell his friends, "My mom gets up at four in the morning and bakes pies and hand-bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." I don't want his attention to be called to the things that I do. Those things mean nothing, and might even indicate that I've built a shrine, or some other not-so-great cathedral, in honor of myself. I just want him to want to bring his friends home often, and maybe to say something like, "You're gonna love it at my house. It's a great place to be."

As the sun was setting on Mother's Day, my mom, sister and I drove to my grandmother's graveside to leave our love and some flowers. My mom asked me if I would share a memory. I thought about how my grandmother would sit next to me on her piano bench. The same piano and bench that are now in my own home. She taught me how to play my first song, I dropped my dolly in the dirt. It was a small gesture. Maybe invisible to others. But her encouragement of that little talent remains though she has moved on. I play the piano each Sunday in church.

Making me Happy

2010-05-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

{1}

Adorable ramekins on clearance at JoAnn's. My store only had 1 box. They located two more boxes and shipped them from Corpus Christy, TX. So happy they were willing to go to all that trouble for a clearance item. I'm making mini turkey pot pies in them. With the turkey from the post below, haha.
{2}
My friend Yanery made me a beautiful camera strap! She just whipped it up one morning and said it was no big deal. It was a BIG DEAL to me. So sweet. (and if it wasn't so difficult to take the strap off my camera I'd have a picture.)
{3}
A sweet deal on a PBK lunchbox. $5.99 plus free shipping. I WILL HAVE A KINDERGARTNER THIS FALL!! I WILL BE PACKING LUNCHES!!!
{4}
My spunky, spirited little girl. I love her. I am learning so much about mothering, and about life in general through this gal. She is one of a kind, and I'm so glad to be her mother!

{5}
Swagbucks!! I am up to the equivalent of $50 in Amazon gift cards and I can't wait to cash them in.
At first I thought I'd buy something practical like diapers.
Then I thought, nah...a treat for myself.
I can't decide between my favorite candle, those beautiful books, or some specialty grocery items!
If you want to sign up, kindly use me as a referral and I'll love you for ever!
www.swagbucks.com/refer/tarap or I can send an email.

{6}

Dave continues with the cool HUD housing treasures.

He brought home 2 of those black dusty chairs, solid wood, real old, real sturdy.

They are in my project pile.

He found that big crock, an old steamer trunk, a marble topped bistro table, retro green lamp, new paint brushes, nice JEEP umbrella stroller, a bentwood-style chair. Oh my, the list goes on and on.

It's like a flea market that's FREE! Never know what you will find.

{7...}

A date night with my husband on Friday!

The Kansas City Temple ground breaking Saturday!

Mother's Day on Sunday!