Fieber Tales!!!!

9 Months and Counting

2012-02-05T21:22:00.000-08:00

Apparently.....

there's not enough room in the crib and .....

this is what happens when you let a 9 month old with 2 bottom teeth play with the puffs container and leave the room. He has learned how to pry the lid off within seconds!

I realize that many of my posts are pretty much centered around Steven, but he has become such a center piece to our lives and I couldn't be happier! He was nine months a few weeks ago but his appointment was this last week so I wanted to wait until I had his measurements. Currently these are his stats:

Weight: 23 lbs (91 %)

Height: 29.5 in (88 %)

Head: 99% I can vouch for that even without measurements because it can be difficult to get his shirts over his head at times :)

Some of the things he has accomplished:

Sleeping through the night for 11 hours!!!! (Now if only I went to bed at 8:30)
Waving hello
Knowing who "da da" is
Cruising along all of the furniture
Playing chase with mom and dad
Crushing crackers rather than eating them
Eating chunky baby food
Playing by myself in the crib
Working on a 3rd tooth on top
Loving the washer and dryer
Banging on everything
Playing with other babies

His little personality is so endearing and quite charming! I love coming home and seeing how excited he is to see me! Also, Adam continues to be the best dad and taking such good care of him, even on little sleep. My sister is his surrogate mother on Monday's and I'm grateful to have her watch Steven! My ward has also been a huge help with watching Steven in the mornings after Adam's clinical shifts so that he can catch a few zzz's. We also have great family and friends who are willing to fill in the gaps when random needs arise! We have truly experienced the tender mercies of the Lord with having wonderful and good people to watch Steven while I'm at work and Adam is at class. I can't wait for the summer when I get to spend all of my time with Steven and not have to leave for work!

Christmas 2011

2012-01-28T23:00:00.000-08:00

Steven got to spend lots of time with family and even meet Santa for Christmas this year! He didn't really have a reaction to Santa, just kept staring at him and trying to figure out what he was supposed to do. :) He got lots of wonderful presents that he plays with all the time! He even got to try some yummy new food. Also, his shirt says, "What Santa doesn't bring, Grandma will"! I saw this shirt at Kohl's right before Christmas and I just had to get it for him.

He is the cutest little shepherd that you have ever seen, right?!

Sitting in his new camp chair surrounded by his loot from Christmas! He was really enjoying eating his new book as well.

Opening presents on Christmas morning. As with most children, he was more interested in the wrapping paper. :)

Our little family on Christmas morning 2011!

All bundled up on Christmas Eve at Temple Square with Papa, Nana, Michelle and Blake. P.S. I also got his cute Polar Bear Hat from Old Navy for $5!!

Joseph Smith Memorial Building: We had to find other Christmas trees to take pictures by since we were so bah humbug and didn't put ours up this year.

We really enjoyed having so much time to spend together over the holidays! We had family come in from out of town and it was so fun to be able to spend some time with them! Merry Christmas!

The Best Dog Ever

2012-01-14T21:48:00.001-08:00

A few days before Christmas we had to put down our dog Chancey. It all started at the beginning of December when we noticed that she was getting skinnier. A few weeks passed and she was even skinnier than before. We finally went to the vet and found out that she had lost 30 pounds in two weeks. The vet did some tests and decided that her liver was failing. He told us that she would continue to get worse and that it was our choice to either let her die in a few weeks or put her down. It was a pretty emotional decision. We've had her for 14 years and she has really become part of our family. She's also one of the last living things that I have from life with my mom. It was really hard but she was in pain and would just get worse. I still look for her when I go outside but I'm comforted thinking that she is with my mom and sister playing around. :)

8 months old!

2012-01-14T20:56:00.000-08:00

Steven turned 8 months right before Christmas and he has accomplished so much this month!

His personality is developing more and more and it was so nice to have two weeks off of work. He's definitely starting to be more clingy but luckily he is still really good about going to other people when I have to leave. Here are some things he has done:

Sleeping 10 hours at night
Getting a second tooth
Crawling like a champ
Pulling himself up on EVERYTHING
Helping us baby proof the house
Going from crawling back to sitting and turning around
Waving "hi"
Entertaining himself with toys
Loving other kids!
Becoming so aware of what and who is around him
Crawling up one stair
Eating more solid foods
Feeding himself crackers

Hanging out with Aunt Candace
On Christmas Eve with Papa and Nana

The first time he pulled himself up in his crib. It is actually quite a funny story. One morning Adam and I were still in bed and heard Steven moving around in his crib. It was the usual routine where we would wait for him to start crying before we went in to get him. I could hear something he was playing with that sounded like the case of wipes. I figured that he was just throwing it around in his crib as usual and didn't think anything of it. The noise was getting louder so I went in to check and this is what I found! Steven standing in the crib with a big grin, thinking he was so cool! The crinkling sound I heard was him hitting the changing table pad, not the wipes. We lowered his crib that day. :)

The "so cool" look!

His first time sledding with daddy!

Finding a new favorite toy... from the kitchen.

With Great Grandma Tate!

Figuring out that he can crawl through the exersaucer... and realizing how fun it is!

The three cousins closest in age on the Fieber side at Christmas.

The babies with Grandpa Fieber

Two razor sharp teeth on the bottom.

We love this kid and can't believe how lucky we are!

Thanksgiving and 7 months

2011-12-11T14:12:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving 2011

We had two Thanksgivings this year! The first was with my dad and Kathy's family and then we headed up to Evanston on Saturday for a late Thanksgiving with Adam's family. Steven got to eat mashed potatoes, crackers, sweet potato, turkey and peach cobbler! He loved getting to try some different foods and being around lots of family!

Thanksgiving Day 2011

Cousin Time with Duncan

Bath time together while eating their toys

7 Months

He got his first tooth on Thanksgiving Day and now he constantly has his tongue out :)

We let him put on his snow suit and go outside in the snow while we were in Evanston. He wasn't sure about it. He kept touching it and then looking very surprised that it was still cold.

This kid loves to sleep on his belly and he we find him like this more often than not. Here are some more things that he's doing at 7 months:

Turning around and rolling to where he wants to when he plays on the floor.
Eating ritz crackers and vanilla wafers
Growing out of 9 month pajamas-- I swear pj's run very small for what size they say.
Taking some small steps when you hold his hands. He thinks he is the coolest person when he is standing and always lets out a "huh" after he gets up.
Putting EVERYTHING in his mouth
Rocking back and forth on all fours and then jumping with his back legs.
Crying himself to sleep
He LOVES other babies and sqawks and squeals at them as much as he can
Flirts with anyone sitting behind us
Hold his own bottle when he eats
Rips off his bumper pads in his crib and tries to pull himself up

SO EXCITED!!!!!

2011-11-25T20:06:00.001-08:00

My best friend Bekah got engaged on Thanksgiving and I'm so stinking excited! Here's a picture of how he did it.... all I can say is "AWESOME"!!! I never would have expected that!

It's coming.....

2011-11-21T21:44:00.000-08:00

BLACK FRIDAY in T - 3 days!!!! I might be flying solo this year but it's sort of become addicting.

Life in the moment

2011-11-20T21:39:00.000-08:00

This is how I feel right now...

Warm Fuzzies

2011-11-19T20:52:00.001-08:00

He gives me warm fuzzies just by hugging me! He is my best friend and I'm so grateful to get hugs like these all the time! I don't mind being a foot shorter than him by any means.

One of my favorite pictures

2011-11-18T20:54:00.000-08:00

While I was on my mission I kept begging my parents to send me a picture. After I had been out a year I finally got this picture from my aunt's wedding. I cried in front of the computer when I saw it because I was so happy to see a picture of them. Now, this picture is a cherished memory of my parents together. I'm so glad that my aunt got married because now I have a beautiful picture to cherish forever!

Thanksgiving in Spain

2011-11-17T20:14:00.001-08:00

Even though this meal doesn't look like much, it was one of the most wonderful Thanksgiving's I've ever had! I never knew I could appreciate Root Beer, mashed potatoes or my family so much! I loved having 2 Thanksgivings and 2 Christmases in the mission field (that usually doesn't happen to sister missionaries)! I hold those times very dear to my heart and am so grateful I got to serve the Lord! My mission taught me who I was and needed to become and has made me a better wife and mother than I would have been without it. I learned so many things about my limits and how to extend beyond them. España, te hecho de menos un montón y la gente me ayudaron a cambiar para ser mejor! No lo puedo creer que he estado en casa casi seis años... jolin. Me siento muy bendecida de poder llamarte mi tierra. Espero que nos vemos pronto! Besos

Does he look like me?

2011-11-16T20:13:00.000-08:00

You be the judge. He keeps changing as he's growing but here is a picture of me when I was one.

One thing I'm proud of...

2011-11-15T20:30:00.000-08:00

I have NEVER played Angry Birds and I am quite proud of myself for that!

Trips

2011-11-14T20:04:00.000-08:00

If I had a lot more extra money, here is where I would go:

1. Norway!!! (My best friend Carrie lives there and I miss her dearly)

2. Spain- Honestly, who didn't see that one coming.

3. Washington D.C.- I'm completely fascinated with this place.

4. Argentina- My dad would come with me as well.

5. Italy- For some reason I really wanted to go there on my mission for some time.

6. Zimbabwe/Zambia- Adam would be so excited to take me there.

7. London- I would love to go and do some family history.

8. Thailand- I love the food, but I'm not sure I would like the bugs.

9. Fiji

10. New Zealand and Australia- but you better believe that I will not be getting in the water there.... the sharks are waiting for me.

Oh boy! Are we ready?

2011-11-13T21:00:00.001-08:00

He is up, rocking and hopping! For a little over a week Steven has been getting up on all fours and rocking back and forth. This past weekend he added jumping to the mix. He will get up on all fours and then jump with his back legs.

Doing a push up! He is getting so stinking strong!

And this is where we end after a long time of jumping and rocking.

Toy or Formula Can?

2011-11-12T20:51:00.000-08:00

Is it a toy or a formula can? or both? Steven has found a new favorite toy in the form of an empty formula can. Maybe I should invest in these and sell them. :) He loves to sit on the floor and play with it. We left the scoop inside of it so that it doubles as a rattle... how innovative are we?!

This is just one of the absolutely cute animal hats that Steven has for the winter! I got it for $3 at Ross and couldn't pass it up!
And here are some more pictures of Steven's cuteness! It is rare that we capture a smile instead of a bewildered look so enjoy!

Question

2011-11-11T20:13:00.001-08:00

Do you wake a sleeping baby or not?

My boys

2011-11-10T20:37:00.000-08:00

I get them for forever... how amazing is that! Being with them is all I need to have a perfect day! Goodness, I'm one lucky girl.

Weird Quirks

2011-11-09T21:00:00.000-08:00

We all have weird quirks that really don't make any sense but they keep life interesting. Here's a list of mine:

I tap my soda pop can before I open it (like it really does anything:)
After I turn off the light I run (literally) to the bed and jump in as if something was chasing me.
The toilet paper must come over the top NOT from the bottom. If it is the wrong way I will change it... even if it's not at my house.
I always turn to the right when I turn around in the shower.
I constantly check for things crawling on the wall when I'm showering... blame it on the movie Arachnophobia.
My water has to be ice cold or I won't drink it.
I used to think you had to defrost the juice concentrate before you could make it... Adam has shown me the light!
When I unload the dishwasher I take out the knives, then the spoons and then the forks.
I have to sleep on the right side of the bed.
I tuck in the covers underneath my feet and sides when I go to bed or I can't fall asleep.
I don't like any part of my body hanging off the bed, even a toe.
I do my make up in a certain order (and hardly ever deviate from it): Foundation, powder, blush, eye brows, eyeliner and mascara.

Ten Guilty Pleasures

2011-11-08T19:55:00.000-08:00

1. ICE CREAM!!! (I've been known to finish a carton all by myself:)

2. Desperate Housewives- I started watching it with my mother-in-law a few years ago.

3. Pressing snooze 3 times before I finally get up.

4. Waking Steven up (at times), so that I can play with him.

5. Playing Texas Hold em' with Adam and going all in when I don't have many chips left.

6. Shoving clothes back in the dryer to make the room look clean:).

7. Ritz Crackers- I love them a little too much!

8. Late night Wendy's runs.

9. Scary movies... even though they give me nightmares.

10. Orange Fanta or Dr. Pepper

Extra Blessings

2011-11-07T19:29:00.000-08:00

Adam and I have gone back and forth about whether or not I need to work full time for one more year and it hasn't been a happy subject but we got some extra blessings this past week that I wanted to share.

I had toyed with the idea of going part time so that I'm not gone as much but had heard that it was pretty hard to make it happen especially as an elementary teacher. I was nervous to bring it up to my principal and had decided to wait until January to talk to her. Last Friday I happened to mention to one of my team members that I was thinking about going part time but wasn't sure it would happen. Later that day she introduced me to a teacher from last year that had quit after she had her baby. She was an amazing teacher but couldn't get someone else to do 1/2 time with her for this year. Well..... we talked and she is interested in pursuing a split contract with me next year. It works out great for me because I would continue to teach all of the science in the morning and then she would take care of the reading, writing and social studies in the afternoon. I brought it up with my principal this morning and she loved the idea! Everything is obviously still up in the air but I am so grateful to have some things falling into place just in case I need to keep working another year.

The Evolution of Steven

2011-11-06T20:50:00.000-08:00

Just thought it might be fun to post pictures of Steven from when he was born until now. Hope you enjoy!

Brand Spankin' New

1 month

2 months

3 months

4 months

5 months

6 months

Nursing

2011-11-05T20:18:00.000-07:00

When I first started nursing Steven I looked forward to the day when I wouldn't be a snack bar. :) Now that I am at the point where my milk is declining and it would be easy to just stop, I find myself resisting. I guess I never realized how much I enjoy these tender moments. We'll see if I stop sooner than later but for right now I will enjoy it while it lasts.

6 months

2011-11-04T19:54:00.001-07:00

This cute little boy was six months old a few weeks ago and just had his shots yesterday. Here are his current stats:

Height: 28.5 inches

Weight: 20 lbs 7 oz

Things he is doing:

Sitting up like a champ! I am actually liking that he can sit and play with his toys for 5 minutes or so before he realizes that I'm not right there by him. :)

Eating lots of vegetables and fruits

Grabbing at anything he can get his hands on!

Transferring toys between his hands

Swinging his arms everywhere! If you aren't careful than he will whack you in the face.

Scooting backwards

Getting up on all fours and rocking back and forth

Saying " Da, da" "Ga, ga" and "Ba, ba"

Rolling over and all over the place

Reaching for toys that are far away and doing all he can to get to them

Having the sweetest and most unique grunt laugh!

Getting his arms and legs over the bumper in his crib (Time to take them out I guess:)

Eating books

Flirting with anyone who will look at him

Foods he has tried:

Sweet Potato, squash, green beans, carrots, peas, mango, apple, banana, banana yogurt and prunes. We still have some more fruits to try but the doctor told us to limit his new foods to every 5 days, so next up are peaches and pears!

He's a pound and a half away and a half inch from the weight and height limit for his car seat so we are hoping that Black Friday will bring some good deals on convertible car seats! His 9 month clothes fit him perfectly so I'm doing my best to stock up on 12 month clothes in the next couple of months. Maybe he will start to even out on the height and weight gain like people have told me. I hope that is true so that I don't have to keep on buying new clothes every month.

Things that he loves:

Going for stroller rides

Looking at the dogs

EATING! (If you couldn't tell:)

Playing with his toys

Being the center of attention

Reaching for everyone's food (He almost pulled a pan off of the stove (it wasn't hot) tonight... had the handle in his hand)

Playing with cousins

Charming his grandparents

Standing on our laps or next to the couch

We love this kid and he is growing so fast! Adam is such a good "baby daddy" and I'm grateful for the special relationship they are forming.

First Halloween

2011-11-04T19:15:00.000-07:00

Here is our the cute little monkey we poached for the night! Adam and I went as Rhodesian Safari hunters and we made quite the adorable catch:).

Here he is standing... now that he can sit he prefers to stand.

At our ward party earlier in the week.

With some of his cousins on Halloween night.

I picked him up early from daycare on Halloween and brought him to my school for our Halloween Parade and party. His face was priceless when I walked into the room! He got so excited and just kept looking at me with a face of "Are you really here?" My kids LOVED seeing him and kept commenting on how cute he was. Steven did great for the first little while but then got really tired and overwhelmed during the parade. Luckily I had some great room mom's so I could sneak out for a minute to the faculty lounge and give Steven a break from the chaos.

After school we went to my dad's and then stopped at my grandparents to say trick or treat. On our way home, Adam convinced me that we should at least go trick or treating to some of our friends houses around the neighborhood. So out came the stroller and off we went with our little monkey in tow. He was so tired but was a good sport. He went right to sleep when we got home after a very long day.

Motherless Daughters

2011-11-03T19:15:00.001-07:00

I still can't believe that it has been 5 years since my mother left this earth. It always seems to come up faster and faster each year. Some people have asked me if I am learning to be okay with the fact that my mother is gone. My answer: No. I don't think I will ever be "okay" with the loss of my mother. If I had the power I would bring her back right now. I need her for so many things and I will continue to need her everyday of my life. Have I learned to live with the fact that I can't just call her up or go and see her? Yes. I have learned how to manage and to look to other people for the things that I need. Has Heavenly Father blessed me? More than words can express. I don't consider losing my mother a blessing but I would be a fool not to acknowledge that I have been blessed immensely with the tender mercies that the Lord saw fit to give me. He continues to bless me in those moments where I need my mother desperately and when I feel alone and abandoned. I also anxiously await the day when I am reunited with her again after this life when all of the pain and heart ache will be rewarded.

I was given a book to read called Motherless Daughters shortly after my mother's death. At first I was skeptical about reading it but my experience resonated with so many of the ideas that were written about. It helped to put my feelings into perspective and really just give them a "safe" spot to be while I sorted through everything. Mostly I think that it just gave me back some of the "control" in my life that I had felt like I had lost. As the years passed I felt like I was figuring out life without a mom and starting to get back in to the flow of things. Then this past April I became a mother and everything changed again.

I am now a motherless mother and I feel like I've lost some of that control again. I know how to be a motherless daughter but I haven't figured out how to be a motherless mother. Now, I realize that there is more to me than these two parts. I am a teacher, a wife, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a daughter of God, etc. and those things are mostly figured out. Yet, now I have discovered a part of me that still needs some figuring out. So many feelings are arising that I have never felt or even thought of before. I find myself literally picking up the phone and trying to call my mom but quickly realize that's not going to happen. I am changing and learning so many things each day but at times I feel like I have no reference to check with. The other day we were trying to figure out when I walked, got my first tooth, said my first word, etc. Per no fault of my dad, when I asked about these things the answers weren't all there. Then when we asked about Adam's childhood his mom was there to answer. I found myself wanting to know more about my childhood but without my mom there are gaps and holes. A new kind of hurt surfaced and I had to figure out how to deal with it. I hope this post doesn't seem so dull and gloomy. It is just a part of some of the harder things I'm experiencing right now. I know that there is a sequel to the book I mentioned earlier that talks to motherless mothers so I think I will have to go and check it out. Again, I have been extremely blessed throughout this whole experience and I know that the Lord will provide the tender mercies that I will need in the future. I am so grateful for my testimony of the gospel and for the understanding I have about the plan of happiness. It makes things easier to sift through and puts a smile on my face:) If you still have your mom here, give her a call, tell her you love her and look for ways to appreciate her in your life.... that is one thing that I would give all the gold in the world to be able to do again.

NaBoMo

2011-11-02T20:47:00.000-07:00

I'm going to try this blogging everyday thing, but I can't promise quality:). Thoughts from today are:

1. I live to come home to this face! I love to see his face light up when he sees me come through the door! I can't get enough of him and I can't wait for the day when I don't have to say goodbye in the morning. He makes me so happy and he is growing up so fast:)

2. Adam cooked me dinner! When I got home the food was ready and hot! It's nice to have a wife to come home to.... LOL Now if only I could do something about the laundry issue.

3. Life can be hard and there is always someone to compare yourself with but that's not what is important. You've got to do the best with what you've got. I don't know if people realize this but I'm horrible at comparing myself to others and I'm pretty hard on myself for it. Adam is helping me learn how to let it go and find the good things I am able to do, even with my crazy schedule.

4. I miss seeing my dad more. He has to travel a lot for work and I hope that things will work out soon so that he isn't gone as much. I love my dad and love seeing him as a grandpa to Steven.

5. Teaching is different once you have your own kid. I'm just not as excited to go to work as I used to be.

6. I don't know how my mom worked and had 3 kids at home... yet another thing that I wish I could talk to her about.

7. I still hate Halloween Parades at school.

8. My house will probably never look like a magazine picture and there will always be a pile of laundry that still has yet to find a home.

9. Steven gets cuter and cuter by the minute.

10. I don't think I'll ever find a better team than the team of teachers I had at Hidden Hollow! They are truly an exceptional group!

11. At least weekly, I count how many days there are until our next break. Case in point: there are 9 days until Thanksgiving Break. After that We are in school for 3 weeks until Christmas Break. In January and February we have a Monday off. There are no breaks in March (grrrr) but then we get a week off in April. After Spring Break we go for 7 straight weeks before we get out of school.

12. ... I'm not a perfect mom/wife and that's okay.

She would have been 56

2011-11-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

My mom's birthday is today. My sister, my dad and I went to Magleby's Fresh to eat some yummy food and celebrate her birthday with some delicious chocolate cake. It's nice to be together and just hang out like old times. I miss her more than ever but I'm grateful for the memories that I get to share with Adam and Steven. She was/is so amazing and beautiful! She accomplished so much and I hope to be more like her.

5 Months... a month ago:)

2011-10-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

At 5 months, here is a little schnippet about this handsome little man:

Steven loves to eat food! We gave him sweet potatoes over conference weekend and he LOVED it! Shortly after that he got to try squash, which is also a favorite. Actually I think that this kid loves food in general. He thinks that any bowl he sees is for him and starts to grunt at it while he stretches as far as he can to get it. :) He almost dumped my taco soup one day, so my days of being able to hold him while I eat are coming to an end. I've been wanting to make my own baby food, but without a food processor that doesn't work so Gerber will have to do until Christmas. He's finally figured out that he can roll both ways and is all over the place. He's been sitting since about 4 1/2 months and can pretty much play with toys for 15 or 20 minutes without falling over. This kid amazes me more and more each day. I can't believe how much I love him and I love that he gets excited to see me when I come home from work. Warms my heart. He scoots backwards instead of forwards and its quite comical to see his confused face when he realizes that he is farther away rather than closer to his toy. We love to go on walks and were fortunate enough to have Grandma Fieber here for 4 days while Adam was in St. George. Steven loves other kids and can't get enough of them. He loves to go "hoo hoo" at things he gets excited about and LOVES books, whether we're reading them or he's trying to eat them.

We seriously can't get enough of this kid and are so grateful to be his parents!

So much has changed...

2011-10-10T23:00:00.000-07:00

I still remember this day four years ago and I'm grateful to have Adam forever! It just keeps getting better and better. :) I love you more than I ever thought I could and am grateful for you as my best friend and father to our children. Love you always! Ndino kuda nemoyo wangu wese.

How did it happen?

2011-09-22T20:32:00.000-07:00

When did my baby get to be so big? We just love this munchkin! I still remember when he was just "little" like this.

I'll take a picture and blog about it tomorrow... but for now this tired teacher mommy needs to go to bed.

4 months continued...

2011-09-01T20:10:00.001-07:00

Here are his current stats at 4 months:

- 16 lbs. 15 oz.
- 26 1/4 inches

He loves to get things in his hands and hold them in front of his face and just study them! We also bought him an exersaucer and he loves it because he gets to stand all on his own. He still doesn't have a typical laugh but the doctor told us that he is laughing at us:). He seems to be doing just fine now that I've started work, better than me some days. I'm getting used to our new schedule and Adam is doing a great job as Mr. Mom! He still spits up a lot but since his weight is fine, they're not worried. We also started him on some rice cereal about a month ago and he is liking it. The only problem is that he hates being spoon fed and screams between each bite. I finally started making it thicker and putting in a bottle with a bigger nipple hole. He's much happier with that, but I hope he learns to like a spoon. Life just keeps going and we're so grateful to have our little family!

Here are some fun things he's doing:
Jabbering and squealing at kids and babies.
Holding his links and flicking them all over.
Getting his first mohawk, styled especially by daddy.
Playing with his toes and grabbing at his feet.
Razzing all the time and sucking on his bottom lip.
Charming everyone that sees him.... "What a cute baby!"
Triple threat thighs.
Sleeping about 9-10 hours a night.
Sitting up in the boppy.

4 months old!!!

2011-08-22T20:49:00.001-07:00

So this picture is actually when he was 3 months old, but I forgot to put it up and I still need to take a picture of him at 4 months. I have had so much fun with this little boy! While I'm sad to be away from him during the day, I LOVE coming home to him! I feel very lucky that Adam can be with him 3 days a week and that we have a great day care and wonderful people to help out when he can't. :) During his 3rd month he finally started to laugh and became so alert! He loves to read and..... eat his books. His smile melts my heart and he is the absolute cutest boy ever! He's so good at grabbing things with his hands and I can't wait until he can put his binky back in all by himself...:)

Fourth of July and More

2011-07-13T17:45:00.001-07:00

We celebrated the 4th of July up in Evanston and Steven slept through all of the fireworks! Maybe he'll be more interested in them next year. :) He loved getting to hang out with his cousin Duncan though. They would jabber at each morning and take turns napping. I can't believe that summer is almost over but I'm enjoying each day I have to spend with Steven!
Here are some pictures for your viewing pleasure as usual!

Having fun with Grandma Fieber!

So Sleepy....

So cute!

Celebrating the 4th of July in Evanston

Hanging out before bed time

The magic touch on Grandma's Porch

First 4th of July Evanston style!

Guess who's.....

2011-06-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

already 2 months old!!!!

Current Stats:
Height: 24 1/2 in (91 %)
Weight: 14 lbs 2 oz (94 %) He's gained 5 lbs so far.

He has changed so much in the last month and we've thoroughly enjoyed being able to watch him grow! He babbles all of the time still and loves to read a book and have a song sung to him before he goes to bed! He's gotten too tall for his 0-3 month pajamas so we've graduated to 3-6 month:) Hopefully they will last longer. He is starting to recognize people and give them smiles when he sees them! We have a book that I made with pictures of family and he loves to coo and talk to the pictures! He is starting to sleep 7-8 hours at night and I love it! He prefers sitting up to laying down and loves being able to look around more! We blessed him on the 12th and were so thankful for the family and friends who were able to make it. I'm so excited to see who Steven will become as he gets older and realize that it will come a lot quicker than I'm ready for. We love him more and more and are grateful for the wonderful change he has brought into our lives.

Steven's Blessing Day

Talking to the animals in the swing

First Fishing Trip

Gotta start em' young! I have a feeling that there will be many, many more of these:).

Krispy Kreme Saturday

My Grandma and Grandpa Tate buy Krispy Kreme donuts and chocolate milk every summer for the grandkids and great grandkids. We head over to Scera Park on a Saturday morning and get to where the hats and enjoy some yummy breakfast food! Although Steven didn't get to eat one, Aunt Brooke snuck some frosting into his mouth and he REALLY liked it:).

Firsts--

2011-06-19T21:43:00.001-07:00

Today was Adam's first Father's Day as a father. I have felt so lucky to watch him evolve as a "dad" to Steven and it warms my heart to see the two of them together! He has shown me a whole new side since the wee babe came into our lives and I have grown to appreciate and depend on him more than I ever have before! I'm grateful to have a worthy priesthood holder that can teach our children how to lead a good life, live the gospel and love those around them! Adam loves Steven so much already and I know that he would do anything for him.
Thanks babe for starting this incredible journey of parenthood with me and for supporting me and Steven as we all learn from each other!

Love always,
Jamie

My Papasito

2011-06-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

4 Generations of Goodness

Seeing as it is Father's Day, I wanted to say a little something about my Dad.
He has been one of my best friends and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have that with him! He loves his grandchildren and they love him back even more! He laughs at my jokes even when they are super corny and he keeps my perspective grounded when I get into my stubborn strides. He is genuinely concerned with my well being and does his best to keep tabs on how things are going. He loved my mother unconditionally and served her selflessly- I can never thank him enough for the example that he set for me. He is a worthy priesthood holder and has an incredible testimony! I would be such a different person without him as my dad and I know that Heavenly Father sent me to be his daughter for many specific and eternally significant reasons. I love you papasito y espero que lo sepas!

10 years

2011-06-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

Friday, June 17th, marked 10 years ago that my little sister Briana passed away unexpectedly. I still can't believe it. She was such a HUGE part of our lives and when she was gone, everything changed. She brought such an abundance of the Spirit into our lives and we never knew how good we had it until she was gone.
Briana, I miss you like crazy! My heart aches every time I see people with mental handicaps but I also get some warm fuzzies as I remember you :). Parker kept asking us to tell him stories about you this past Saturday and it was so much fun to see his excitement as he kept asking for more and more! I can't wait until Steven is old enough to understand where you are and how much you affected my life! Give mom a hug for me and keep making Steven laugh!

Love always, Jamie D.

For your viewing pleasure...

2011-06-17T20:51:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to some of the family/2 month pictures we had taken today! Fotofly is amazing and gives you a ridiculously good deal on great photography! Check out their website here (Fotofly) and then log on with this password to see the photos! Password: 20115685Fieber

Here is a little taste of what you are in for!

Most mornings...

2011-06-07T10:35:00.000-07:00

You will find me and Steven on the couch trying to get some extra sleep:)

We are still working on sleeping longer but he is now up to about 5 hours during the night. He will put himself to sleep in the crib, which I'm grateful for, and is downing 5 oz. each feeding. Although its looking like we are going to be moving closer to 6 oz sooner than later. We visited the doctor last week and Steven is now 12 lbs. 8 oz (although I'm sure we've surpassed 13 lbs since last week). We found out that he has laryngomalacia (when the supraglottic larynx (the part above the vocal cords) is tightly curled) and that is the cause for his "cute" squeaking:). The doctor said that it is common in first born males and that as long as it doesn't impede his eating or breathing, he will grow out of it within the first year. If it becomes severe then they'll have to do surgery but for right now everything is looking alright.
Steven has also started to find his voice! He jabbers at me most of the morning and is smiling more and more. He loves his swing and babbles at the little animals above him all the time! Fun story from last week: I was holding him while talking to my sister on the phone one morning and Steven decided he needed more attention. He stopped sucking on his binky, let go of it a little and made the sweetest coo's at me! I loved it! We sure do love our little man and are excited to bless him this Sunday!
Here are some more pictures from the last couple of weeks.

Hanging out with Grandpa Dale

Playing with his cousin, Duncan.

Smiling at Great Grandma Joyce.

Sitting with Dad.

1 Month Old

2011-05-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

Steven is a month old today! We've kept him alive so far, so the future looks promising :) I still can't believe that a month has passed by so quickly. It literally feels like we left the hospital last week. He has changed so much each week and we feel so blessed to have him! At his last appointment he had gained 1 1/2 lbs in 11 days, so it's safe to say that he's getting enough food and still growing. He had his first appearance at church today and was the star of the show. Everyone commented on how much he looked like Adam and I couldn't agree more! I'm lucky to have two very handsome men in my life!

Steven started smiling at us on Saturday and we can't get enough of it! He melts my heart every time... and he also started to make some fun baby sounds when I was lying on the floor with him on Saturday. I think that he is definitely a keeper and am so excited to have the summer to just be with him! Here are some pictures for your enjoyment!

Holding up his head.... he almost refuses to leave it down:)

Our life so far...

2011-05-14T13:10:00.001-07:00

So I figured that since Steven is now 3 weeks old I could find some time to update our blog with pictures and news. :) We'll start from the beginning and work our way forward.

Delivery Day:
We headed to the hospital at 6:30 AM, checked in and got ready to have a baby! They started to induce me around 7:30 and then broke my water. I lasted until 9:30 and then decided to get the epidural in. My contractions weren't horrible but I definitely couldn't talk through them and my midwife reminded me that she didn't hand out gold stars for pain tolerance (LOL)! The epidural was heaven and I didn't feel anything but pressure after it. I kept progressing until about 3 PM when I was at 7 cm. I stayed at a 7 until 8:00, when I spiked a fever. The fever meant that there was bacteria in my uterus that put me and the baby at risk unless I delivered soon. Apparently the infection would make it so that my uterus wouldn't be able to contract as well, which would make a vaginal delivery impossible. The midwife told me how sorry she was, but that I would need to get a C-section. I've had major surgery before so the idea of a C-section didn't scare me. I was mostly worried about little Steven being okay and not harmed. I was disappointed to not deliver the "normal" way and felt like I was going to completely miss out on "giving birth" but the most important thing was my health and his, so they gave me more drugs and we headed into the OR. It took about 20 minutes to get the wee babe out and I still remember the doctors and nurses reaction of, "WOW! That's a big baby!" when they pulled him out. I got to see Steven for a few seconds before Adam had to go with the nurse to get him checked out and bathed.
Laying on the table with Adam gone was not the preferred way to spend the first 30 minutes of our babie's life but I was so excited (and extremely tired) to see him when they wheeled me into our room! I couldn't feel my legs or sit up so it was sort of challenging to hold him but we made it work:). I loved seeing Adam with him and was so excited to be able to sit up and hold our baby!
Unfortunately I was not able to hold him again for almost an entire day. They had me feed him a few hours after he was born and told me that they needed to get his blood sugar levels up. I was still pretty drugged from the surgery and couldn't even feel my legs, so I don't remember what time it was at all. I fed him, they took him to the nursery and I fell back asleep. The next thing I remember was Adam waking me up and telling me that they were admitting Steven into the NICU because his blood sugar was dangerously low. I just cried and kept asking Adam question after question. They told me to not worry and get some rest (yeah right!). The next morning they tried to sit me up so that I could get in the wheel chair and go see him..... but I still couldn't sit up without throwing up and getting dizzy. I was still exhausted and completely emotional at this point and just kept sobbing. Later that afternoon, I could finally get into the wheelchair and was so ready to get down to the NICU and see Steven. Luckily, Adam was able to always check on him, change his diapers and feed him with what I had pumped, although Steven still needed formula to keep his blood sugar levels up. The next 4 days were long and crazy but on Tuesday Steven was taken out of the NICU and we were discharged later that night!

The first three weeks:
Steven is such a good baby! He really only cries or fusses when he is hungry or needs a diaper change. He's been sleeping about 3 hours at a time during the night and has been nursing like a champ! He still needs to be supplemented with formula every once in awhile but he gained a half of a pound last week, so apparently he's getting enough food:) He has almost outgrown his newborn clothes and is tall enough for his 0-3 month clothes! I have learned how to survive on 2 hour stretches of sleep and am loving the time I have to spend with him all day! So many people were so wonderful and have helped us with overnight stays, food and company! Here are a few things that Steven has been doing as well:

Turning from his belly to his back..... seriously... we're not joking! He has done it 6 + times when we have tummy time.
Holding his head up straight for 5 seconds or more.
Giggling and smiling while he sleeps ( I swear he's having conversations with my mom and sister:)
Pooping on the outside of his diaper while leaving the inside almost completely clean.
Focusing on our faces.
Gaining a 1/2 pound in a week!
Sleeping for 3 hours at a time.
Making us fall in love with him everyday!

Here are his stats from his last appointment as well:
22 inches (90th percentile)
9 lbs 7 oz (72nd percentile)
We certainly love our little boy and feel so blessed to have him in our family!

Steven Tongai Fieber

2011-04-23T15:50:00.000-07:00

Well, after 13 hours of labor and an emergency C-section, Steven finally made his debut at 8:21 PM on Friday, April 22nd!! He was 8 lbs, 15 oz and 22 inches long. He came out with a whimper but hasn't cried much at all. Right now he is in the NICU because he has been having low blood sugar problems and has a small air leak in his lung but the pediatrician says it should heal itself. I'm doing okay, C-sections definitely have more recovery time. We are so excited to have Steven with us and can't wait to have him out of the NICU and with us! Here are some pictures for you viewing pleasure!

Notice of Eviction

2011-04-19T15:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby,
Unless you decide that you are going to pay us a visit early, you will be evicted on Friday morning. Sorry to rush you but these off and on contractions have got to become consistent. Therefore, you have 2 1/2 days to either show up on your own or we will force you out:).

Love,
Mom and Dad

Nursery Pictures.... made it before the babe came!

2011-04-16T11:40:00.001-07:00

Shelf and Dresser

My father-in-law made the shelf for the nursery and he made the dresser years ago for Adam when he was little. He is quite the handy man!

Window View of nursery

Plaque

My father-in-law made this plaque for me, my Grandma Tate helped me get the vinyl lettering done and then I painted it and put it together. I was so excited to put this up in his room! So we'd better stick with "Steven" or the S will look a little funny!

Nursery from the door

Giraffe Picture Set

Found this giraffe at Hobby Lobby, painted it and added it to some picture frames! Another thing I was so excited about for the nursery!

Crib and Blanket

Changing Table

Bookshelf

I'm still feeling a lack of books here, but that's what I get for being a teacher. i couldn't have had a nursery without books.... I'm slightly obsessed:).

Nursery Wall

Made the frame and added the animals from the crib set.

Everything is finally all put together and I'm so excited to have it done. We're still just hanging out and finishing up last minute school stuff but we'll be sure to let you all know when little Steven makes his debut!

Maybe 1 more left.... most likely 2:)

2011-04-12T21:27:00.000-07:00

I didn't post a picture because I look the same as last week only carrying lower. I had my appointment today and I'm a little over 1 cm and 65 % effaced. The baby has definitely dropped so I am waddling to the bathroom about every hour. It gave me some comfort knowing that I will have some more days to get my sub plans done and Adam's finals over with. The midwife told me that if I haven't had him by next Tuesday that they'll do a non-stress test to make sure he's okay and if I haven't had him within the next two weeks then they'll induce me.

I have a couple of projects that I'm finishing up for the nursery and then it will be all ready. My sister, Brooke, came with me to my school today to file away my 3 HUGE piles of papers that I have. I couldn't have done it without her! I also got to show my long term sub around my room so that she kind of knows where things are and how I run the day to day things. Adam's work is throwing us a shower this week or next, they are so kind, but that's what you get when you work with mostly women I guess:).

P.S. Just for the record- I think my procrastination habit has paid off with this baby because I still have plenty to keep me busy while we wait for him to make his debut!!! Just sayin'... maybe procrastination does serve a purpose. (My mom would definitely be laughing about this comment!)

2 More Left

2011-04-05T20:24:00.001-07:00

Here we are at 38 weeks with two more to go! I had my appointment today and I was dilated to a whopping..... 1 cm!!! I am actually quite happy about it though because it is okay with me if this little man stays in for a couple more weeks. A few months ago I would have told you that I wanted him to come early but as we get closer I realize that the longer he stays in, the stronger and healthier he will be. I know that things can change quickly but for now we'll just plan on him around our due date! I'm working on finishing the nursery next week and will post pictures... still not completely done with my sub plans, but at least I've started, right?!

35 Weeks and More Pictures

2011-03-14T20:15:00.000-07:00

35 weeks down...

5 more weeks to go and we are so excited! Braxton hicks contractions are coming more frequently and our little boy keeps busy inside my bump. He really likes to stretch one arm and one leg out at the same time, giving me a partially flat tummy:). I definitely feel like there are a million things to do to get ready for this baby, but we've got to take it one day at a time. We are super excited to meet our little boy and can't believe it is so close!

Crib and Crib Bedding

Nursery in the making...

Every blanket carries a story...

2011-03-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

Every Blanket carries with it a story, whether it's homemade or bought. Here are some of the blankets that we have received for our little boy and the stories that go with them.

Blanket from Mom

I have really wanted a blanket from my mom, but seeing that the spirit world doesn't have Fedex, that was not going to happen. Then, as usual, Heavenly Father sent a tender mercy our way. Six years ago, my mom and Aunt Amy were at the fabric store when my mom found some fabric that she wanted to use to make my nephew, Parker (who was yet to be born), a blanket. Amy liked the fabric as well and decided to buy the same fabric and make it for her son Jake. She never ended up making that blanket. Six years later Amy used that same fabric to make me the same blanket as Parker's. I couldn't have asked for a more tender mercy than this one, that started 6 years ago. I snuggle with that blanket quite often and it brings comfort to the void that still aches for my mom. Thank you Amy! Words cannot express how this blanket touches my life and will touch the life of our sweet baby boy.

Tress' blanket

Again, Tress found this fabric before we were even pregnant and decided that it reminded her of Adam. She started making it before we found out we were having a boy and crossed her fingers that she would be able to give it to us soon. She spent a lot of time on it and kept us in suspense for months. After much anticipation we finally got it and we love it! It fits our little boy perfectly!

The fish blanket

As most of you know, Adam carried this fabric with him for 20 minutes before I consented to buy it and make a blanket. After a few trips to the store we finally found binding that matched. Although I'm not sure it will make many pubic debuts, I've grown to like it and Adam has grown to love it even more!

34.5 Weeks and counting....

2011-03-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

So I haven't posted for awhile because the term ended and I had to get all of the late assignments graded and entered which took over my life for a few days. I've also been soooooo tired and have yet to take another picture to post. I promise to take a picture this afternoon and post it in all it's glory! :) My doctor moved away so I've started to go to a midwife near Orem Community Hospital. She is great and I'm excited that she'll be there for the entire experience as a support. She moved my due date from the 26th to the 19th based on the ultrasounds she's looked at, so technically I have one week less then I did before. I do realize though, that this baby will come when he comes and my due date is just a technicality. We are still set on Steven as his name, unless for some reason he doesn't look like a Steven when he comes out:). I'm so excited to meet him and see his little face! Only 5.5 weeks (plus or minus) and I still can't believe how close it is. Adam is so excited for this little boy but we are both anxious and nervous as well.
We've almost finished the nursery and I'll post some pictures of it soon. My family threw me a baby shower a few weeks ago and we got so many cute and much needed things for the wee babe! It has been a thrill to walk into his room and imagine a baby there, even though I know that my sleepless nights are coming up soon! I've been pretty blessed during this pregnancy and have been able to work and keep up with my schedule. I still feel like my body is slowly falling apart but I'm still trucking along!

A Rodent in the Bed!!!!!!!

2011-02-14T19:56:00.000-08:00

True Story:
Yesterday, I came home from Sacrament meeting to check on Adam (aka sicky sickington with a sinus infection). He was still in bed so I got in and laid down beside him. I was asking him how he was feeling and trying to get him out of bed so that we could go to the Instacare, when suddenly I felt something crawling underneath my side!!!!!!!!! I really thought something had just crawled underneath me and frantically went searching for it. Adam (half asleep) woke up in a panic and asked me what was wrong. I kept searching for a second underneath me for the supposed rodent, while Adam asked me what it was. After realizing that there was nothing in the sheets (and remembering that there is a small being inside of me:), I told Adam, "Oh, never mind. It was just the baby." Talk about being embarrassed!!! I felt so silly that I had mistaken my baby for a small rodent crawling underneath me..........:) But that was definitely the first time that he has rolled or kicked that hard.

3 Times as big........?

2011-02-04T16:10:00.000-08:00

I had my 28 week appointment on Monday and the first thing the doctor told me was, "In 3 months you'll be 3 times as big! Are you ready for that?" I already feel huge and I guess that feeling will just continue to increase :). I have been so tired though! We had parent teacher conference the past two days and going from 6 AM to 8 PM, two days in a row really took it out of me, so I caved and had a sub come for the morning today and thoroughly enjoyed sleeping in a few extra hours! But, in two weeks we'll have a three day weekend and I'm really excited! I can't believe that we only have 2 1/2 months before this little one comes?! I guess I better get my sub plans over and done with so that I'm not scrambling near April.

My Domestication and 26 Weeks!

2011-01-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

It's official! I've been domesticated and have actually sewn something all by myself! I went to my sister's last night and worked on a car seat cover and burp cloths. They are sooooo easy to make (thus making my success possible:) and I also threaded the bobbin all by myself!! Normally Adam has to come and get the bobbin started because it has proven to be difficult for me to do. Yesterday I did it all by myself and even did okay on the sewing part. Here are the pictures to prove it.

Car Seat Cover (I still have to add the ties and velcro)

Burp Cloths

Adam's Fish Blanket
Side Story: Adam carried this fabric around with him in the store for a good twenty minutes before I consented to make a blanket out of it! Persistence paid off for him! I've still got to finish the binding.

Nursery Animals that we've gotten so far:)

26 Weeks

We're almost down to three months left and it feels like it's coming so fast! I'm feeling pretty good but get tired easily and feel stuffed most of the time (I wonder why? :). Lately I've been able to sit and watch him move around which is so weird but fun at the same time. I don't get any time during the day to watch him move around but at night he sure does make sure I know he's there! We are getting the nursery together and have made decisions on bedding, etc. I'm excited for a chance to sleep in tomorrow but love my job too!

Baby Stuff :)

2011-01-08T22:58:00.000-08:00

So we finally made up our mind for sure on what kind of a crib we wanted to get. At first we thought a crib and changing table that were separate would be nice, so we picked out a crib and then tried to find a changing table to match. Can I just tell you that decent changing tables are expensive!! And, I looked for changing tables on KSL and Craigslist but there hasn't been much of a viable selection that would match a dark brown color. We stopped at Babies R Us today to look at some of the bedding and ended up finding the type of crib that would work perfectly with the space we have available in the nursery. Therefore, we decided to get a crib that has a changing table combo. A picture has been included for your viewing pleasure! Now I just have to decide on crib bedding..... which has proved to be a longer process than I thought. It will definitely be jungle/safari themed, but there are so many choices and styles. I toyed with the idea of posting pictures and having people vote, but since then I have realized that people have many different opinions and I just need to decide for myself :).

22/23 Weeks

2010-12-19T20:43:00.000-08:00

My Christmas break has officially started since I don't have to wake up at the crack of dawn for work tomorrow!!!!!! I am going to enjoy sleeping in more than ever! I still have to remind myself that not everyone has a two week holiday break... sometimes I forget and just assume that no one else has to go to work (i.e. Adam:). We are headed to Evanston on Wednesday and will be there until Saturday afternoon.

The wee babe has been making his presence known and I swear his feet are sitting right above my bladder! We were at the mall doing some Christmas shopping on Saturday and I felt him moving around. Not a minute later I had a serious urge to pee. We made our way to the bathrooms and right before we got there he moved again and the urge was gone. Adam just laughed at me and I couldn't help but chuckle to myself. Feeling the baby move is one of the weirdest and most amazing things all at the same time! We've gotten some nursery items, a few clothes and a blanket for him and I love to just look at them and imagine what he'll look like in them. I'm a dork but it's makes me smile:) I told my fourth graders that we were having a boy and most of the boys yelled, "YES! Boys are awesome!" while others responded with, "Oh yeah. You're gonna have a baby."

My heartburn hasn't been so bad lately but when it comes, it comes with a vengeance. Tums seems to help and the doctor gave me some tips on prevention. They still haven't decided whether or not to move my due date to the 19th, so they just told me to be ready for a 19th due date just in case. Adam still can't feel him move but hopefully soon. It's reassuring to feel him wiggling around since I'm still a worry wart about so many things. My sister tells me that's normal with your first one.
My sleep has continued to be pretty consistent. I have only had a few nights where I kept waking up. I'm praying that it continues because it is so hard to be a coherent teacher when you haven't had enough sleep. We have a few names that we like so far and the leading contestant is "Steven", but we probably won't make a final decision until he makes his debut. I can't believe that in four months we'll have a little babe in our house. I'm almost to 24 weeks and it seems that like time has passed so quickly.

It's a boy!!!!!!!!

2010-12-06T21:05:00.000-08:00

It's official... this little baby proved me wrong and we're having a boy! I was completely surprised to say the least but I'm so excited!! Everything looks great and you could just see the beaming glow on Adam's face all day as he told people we were having a boy. The little one was shy for the camera and kept putting his hands on his face. The nurse pushed on my stomach to get him to move his hands and he just kicked right back at us. I'm also a week ahead of schedule so we'll see when he comes! Loved seeing him move around on the ultrasound screen and am excited to have a cute baby boy soon!

Current Status

2010-11-20T11:46:00.000-08:00

We recently had family pictures with my dad, Kathy and her kids. Although the day was rainy, we still got some cute shots. I was excited to get a picture of just Adam and I, to remember what is was like with the two of us. Soon we'll be three and it will change our family, which is an exciting change that we anxiously await! Adam is almost done with his first semester of the nursing program and is getting used to working nights at the hospital. Although it's not fun waking up at three to someone climbing into our bed... it is a welcome addition so that I'm not alone all night. :) Thanksgiving break is coming next week and I have never felt more ready for a 3 day break. As far as baby news goes, I started to feel "flutters" at about 16 weeks but they were very random and only a few times a week. Now they come a little more frequently and it is so fun! I wish Adam could feel them, but everyone tells me that soon enough he'll be able to feel the baby move. We find out on December 6 if it's a boy or a girl but haven't decided if we are going to wait until Christmas to tell everyone or not. I'm hoping it's a girl because it would be so fun to find that out on Briana's birthday (my little sister who passed away 9 years ago)! If it is a girl she will definitely have the middle name of Briana! We'll see soon enough.

Three Years and Three Months!

2010-10-10T16:00:00.001-07:00

I love this picture because it characterizes how Adam has affected my life:) I tend to be more serious and a planner while Adam keeps me light hearted and spontaneous! We were married 3 years ago today and although we've had our ups and downs, we've grown closer together and love each other more than we did 3 years ago. Adam has been such a support to me, especially when things don't go according to "my plan". He works so hard in school and works to help us put money away for savings. I'm so proud of all that he has accomplished and continues to do. Also, we're three months along with this pregnancy and I couldn't ask for a better companion and best friend. He gets me hot tang at midnight, rubs my constantly aching shoulders and holds me when I'm not feeling so great. I'm so excited to see him as a dad and can't wait for our little bundle of joy to come in April. So, here's to celebrating three years and three months!!!!!

P.S. Cute story from yesterday:
We were at the mall looking at a few things and stopped by the maternity store to look at the price of some pants. Adam made me promise that I wouldn't buy anything and that I would just look. I tried on the pants and then put them on hold. After leaving the store, Adam kept telling me that I already had my anniversary present. I insisted that I did not and then he made me look all throughout my messy purse to find it. While I was in the dressing room, he had bought a gift card to the maternity store and then slipped it in my purse! Such a sweet heart and I love him so much!

My new parking space:)

2010-09-26T10:32:00.001-07:00

So apparently I get my own parking space until April 26!!! By now most of you know that Adam and I are due to have a baby in April and we are so excited! Of course I still have my worries about something going wrong, but I'm hopeful and so thrilled at the same time! Here's the story about how we found out and how it's been going.
After our miscarriage we waited the allotted time before trying again. Of course I kept waiting to see changes in my body to let me know that I was pregnant. Well, I was pretty much convinced that I wasn't because I didn't really feel all that different and I only had a couple of days before my monthly visitor was supposed to arrive. It was Saturday, August 13th and we were invited to go to Lagoon with Adam's family. I figured that since I didn't feel pregnant I should go on the rides and not worry about it. My sister-in-law, Brooke, and I decided to go on the Samuri:) Adam thought I was crazy but I went anyway. After the ride I felt completely nauseated! I opted out on the rest of the rides that night because it wouldn't go away. On the way home Adam said I should just take a pregnancy test, but I didn't want to because I wanted to wait until Sunday when I should have been starting my cycle. I still felt sick throughout the night and decided to take a test in the morning. I woke up, took the test, and then prepared myself to see a negative. I didn't want to get my hopes up. I set the timer and then came back when it beeped. There were two lines and I quickly ran to show Adam!!!!! As excited as I was, it was then that I began to worry. I remember before I had a miscarriage that I thought nothing could go wrong and that everything would be fine. Now it was a different story because I had been down the "everything didn't go well" path and I worried about everything.
I called my doctor to set up an appointment and they asked me to come in at 10 weeks. I explained to the nurse what happened with my last pregnancy and she was so nice about it. She told me that I could actually come in at 6 weeks and have a viability ultrasound to see if everything was progressing as long as my insurance covered it. I called my insurance and they said they would! It brought me some comfort that I wouldn't have to wait as long but also worry that there wouldn't be a heart beat again. For a two weeks I kept waiting to feel sick and I actually didn't start feeling sick until a couple of days before my appointment. We went in and there was a heart beat! I made my appointment for nine weeks and then started school. Everyday brought its ups and downs. If I wasn't sick I worried. If I was cramping I worried. If I didn't feel pregnant I worried. Thanks to Adam, my sister, mother-in-law, dad and Kathy for listening to all of my worries and trying to reassure me. I made many phone calls for the next three weeks. I had a lot of cramping during week 7 and I was thoroughly convinced that something was wrong, but then I kept getting more morning sickness all throughout the day and the day of my appointment finally came.
I had to get a root canal at 1 and then had our ultrasound at 3:30. I was so nervous and nauseated. They quickly brought us back to the ultrasound room and I was on the verge of tears. She did the ultrasound and all I wanted to see was the FLICKER again. After a few seconds I saw the flicker and the nurse turned up the sound so we could hear the heart beat! It was such a comforting sound! I started crying and Adam just gave me a kiss and held my hand. We met with the doctor, did blood tests and then decided that our due date was on April 26. Although I still worry about little things that happen, I still have morning sickness. It's the worst at night right before I go to bed and all day on the weekends. I'm grateful to feel sick (even though it's not so fun) and I'm grateful for the love and support of my husband and family:) I'm gaining confidence everyday and I'm learning to leave it up to my Heavenly Father and trust in his plan. Again, we are so excited and thrilled to welcome a precious baby into our lives and home!

You are always on my mind......

2010-07-11T21:14:00.000-07:00

If you were to ask me, "What are you thinking about right now?" 9 times out of 10 I would respond with something about my classroom, for my students or basically anything that deals with teaching. This is further illustrated through this experience. While Adam and I were driving, about a month ago, he turned to me and asked what my hobbies were. My first thoughts were all related to something about teaching. It took me a minute to think of something that didn't directly relate to my classroom or my students. While I realize that i should have other hobbies (which I'm now working on) I can't help but love to learn and teach others!
This summer has been my summer of classes. I have been in class since the week after school got out. I'll have a two week break in July and then I'll have one more class at the beginning of August. Some people think I'm crazy and that I should use my summer break for relaxation, but I can't help it: I don't have kids and I love LEARNING! My favorite so far has been BYU's Science Plus program and so here's a little about what I did for a week!

The class consisted of going down to Southern Utah in the Colorado Plateau region and learning all about the geology and biology of the area. We would start at 7:30 in the morning, eat lunch in the vans, have dinner at 5, present our findings from our assignments and then head to bed at about 9. If we weren't sleeping we were wandering all around learning about rocks, plants, habitats, geologic time and more! It was one of the most tiring things I've done in a long time (reminded me of my mission minus the religious part:) but I learned so much and I'm so excited to change how I teach science and use the inquiry method that I learned while I was there! It amazes me that we never cease to learn new things and I have a lot of years to keep learning! Therefore, if you have a hard time getting a hold of me it's probably because I'm in class:)

We're not moving!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-26T21:05:00.000-07:00

We got a letter from the UVU Nursing Program today and found out that Adam was accepted!! So glad that we do not have to move somewhere else in January and that we get to stay around here for 3 more years:) I'm feeling very blessed and I'm grateful to see so many blessings lately. We are one step closer to our next phase of life.

Things not meant to be

2010-06-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

Six weeks ago I took a pregnancy test and it was positive. Adam and I were so excited and hopeful for a new addition to our family (not in the form of a dog:). We made our appointment for June to have my 10 week ultrasound and listen to the heart beat. Everything seemed to be going well. We went to our appointment today and found out that the baby stopped growing around 6 weeks and that there was no heart beat. They were hard words to take in, but that is what happened. I realize that there was nothing I could have done to change things and it's just something I need to learn to deal with. I'm doing okay. It's hard to let go of the dreams and aspirations we had but it was not meant to be right now. Thank you to my wonderful friends and family for support, hugs and love:) Adam is such a sweet heart to me as well. I'm so grateful to have such a wonderful companion! I know that most people wouldn't blog about this kind of thing but it's kind of a therapeutic:) The Lord loves us and I know it'll happen when its meant to.

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T22:15:00.000-07:00

Bitter Sweet day for me but enjoyed telling Adam all about my mom in the car ride up to Evanston! I'm noticing more and more each day all of the little things I do that my mother did all the time:0) They are such sweet reminders of her and her love! I'm planning on posting about them sometime this week. A big thank you to all my "mothers" who fill her role for me each day! I couldn't do it without you. Love you always and forever Mom! Jamie D.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-04-30T06:39:00.001-07:00

I'm

27

and

loving

life!

Please feel free to send all celebration gifts via check or money order:)
Adam has planned a surprise for me tonight but I don't know what it is, so I'll post more later after it happens!

I'm a nut

2010-04-27T10:04:00.001-07:00

So instead of taking a relaxing summer, and being a stay at home wife again, I'm going to be a tutor at Sylvan Learning Center in Orem. I'm actually really excited! Working with my students one-on-one is something I wish I had more time to do, so I get to practice a lot at Sylvan! The hours and pay are good and I'll only be working about 20 hours a week, so I still get somewhat of a break but also get to pad our savings account:). Maybe next summer I'll take a break and galavant to all of the places I've been dreaming about!

Dear....

2010-04-10T14:27:00.000-07:00

Just some little notes for you viewing pleasure!

Dear Spring Break- How did you pass by so quickly? Couldn't you stay a few days longer so that I can be lazy and sleep in until 8? If you would take my suggestion into consideration and let me know before Monday morning at 5:45 AM when my alarm goes off, that would be fabulous!

Dear yard- If you could take care of yourself that would help a lot. I'm more than willing to pick up after you every once in a while but we really need to teach you responsibility. It'll be good for you in the long run. The shovel, lawn mower and anything else you need are conveniently located in the shed.

Dear Skyward Grading System- I have a brilliant idea that could make you lots of money! We should create a scanner that recognizes the name, subject and score of an assignment so that all I have to do is put the paper under the scanner and you magically enter my grades! What do you think? It would create a lot more free time and reduce the cramping in my wrist:)

Dear dogs- Please remember that we put up a fence around the garden for a reason. I know the birds that land there are very tempting but remember that running in the garden is not a way to get a treat from us.

Dear laundry next to the dryer- We seem to have a disfunctional relationship because the only time you receive my attention is when I can't stand the sight of you anymore. We should work on that. Maybe I could talk to the fairies from Sleeping Beauty and they could take care of you once a week.

Dear Dad- I know that galavanting to Hawaii is wonderful but really... did you have to go over my spring break when I actually had time to see you during the day? And I could have fit in your suitcase had I been given enough notice:)

Dear extra padding- I know you like me but I don't like you and never will. I know that Mr. Gym and I have been estranged but I guess I need to revive our relationship in order to get you out of my life for good.

Dear new dishwasher- Leaking is never a good option.

Dear Adam- thanks for being patient with your "psychotic it's 1 in the morning" wife when she goes from laughing, to crying, to joking, to angry in the space of 5 minutes. Your continued support and love is much appreciated.

Dear limeade- You are my sunshine. Enough said. Thanks to Kevin for introducing me to what I've been missing all these years!

Dear X-Box- If you could just take a short vacation and let us be with our husbands more than one weekend night that would be fabulous. I wouldn't mind writing a note to each of them if that would help you:0) I'm sure that Candace, Paula, Tress and Brooke would pitch in and help as well.

Dear Heavenly Father- thanks for giving me strength when I feel overwhelmed and for helping me realize the blessings that are all around me. Life is uncertain but I know that even though I can't see the way, you have already prepared it. I've learned that my faith still needs some growing pains.

Dear Highway Patrol Man- Thank you for pulling me over and just giving me a warning. I needed it that day and you were very nice. I will never go more than 25 on that road again.

2 Reasons to Celebrate!

2010-03-08T21:02:00.001-08:00

Adam's turned 25!!!

He is my everything and I'm so grateful to have him as my husband and best friend! I'm so excited to see him as a father one day and to start our family. Love you babe!

Kevin and Tress were married 30 years ago!

They have become so dear to me and I can't imagine my life without them! They are my second set of parents and I appreciate the love and support they have extended to me. I feel very spoiled to have such fantastic in-laws! :) Thanks to both of you I have a wonderful husband to be with forever! Happy 30th Anniversary!

Calling all Runners!

2010-02-27T09:22:00.000-08:00

In two weeks it is the annual Rex Lee Run for Cancer! I ran it last year and it was great! If you know someone who was or is a cancer fighter then come join me on March 13th to run a 5K for a $15.00 donation. Here's the website Rex Lee Run Hope to see you there cause I'm running for my mom!

What do you love?

2010-02-19T20:56:00.001-08:00

I love....
the taste of Dr. Pepper when I haven't had it in awhile
when Adam will get me a Dr. Pepper if I have a headache:)
seeing pre-views for new movies
pita chips and hummus
teaching my 4th graders!!
getting my house really clean
hanging out with Bekah
blaring my music in the car
reading scriptures with Adam before we go to bed
laughing
reading my old journals
Aleve
putting lotion on after I shower:)
Pink perfume from GAP
getting a killer deal on anything!
getting free stuff
going to church and holding Adam's hand during sacrament
seeing my family
feeling the Spirit
remembering things about my mom and sister!
talking to my sister
watching my nieces and nephews!
finding decorating items on sale for the house
stalking people on facebook:)
finding out about new ideas for teaching
looking at Adam's blue eyes
planning..... for many things!
traveling to different places
snuggling Adam for five minutes in the morning after I hit snooze
it when my hair turns out cute
being called "mamie"

Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T19:39:00.001-08:00

Today would have been my parent's 30th anniversary. They were married on February 14, 1980 in the Salt Lake Temple. My mom always said that they chose to get married on Valentine's day so that my dad wouldn't forget their anniversary:) My mom would then go on to tell you that he forgot their first anniversary and my dad would jump in and say he didn't. Did he really forget? I don't know but I know that my dad loved and still loves my mom, as does she. Happy 30th anniversary and thank you for such an example of love and devotion in marriage! I'm grateful that you made the choice to be sealed for eternity and start our family so many years ago.

My mom on her wedding day

Mom and Dad on their wedding day..... February 14, 1980

History of 2009!

2010-01-10T19:06:00.000-08:00

(I'm stealing this idea from one of my cousins!)

Here is a run down of things that have happened in 2009:

Funnest Events

Went to Powell, WY and Phoenix to visit Family! In Wyoming we got to visit Adam's grandparents and in Arizona we had a blast at Emily and Santiago's reception!

Hanging out with Steve and McKenna all summer long! They are our BFF's and we're sad they moved to Texas but we're planning on visiting them this summer:)

Helping Chad and Candace out in Colorado!

Tate Family Reunion in Vernal!!!!!!!

Biggest Purchase

The F-150. We looked for almost a year but finally found a great deal and jumped on it.

Fixing Bunker's broken leg (could have cost $300 but we were silly and went to Banfield first) and building the dog run.

Landscaping items for our yard and our attempt to grow grass.

Favorite Movies

Avatar (well technically 2010 but we'll put it in 2009)

We really haven't seen many movies in the theaters because we just wait for it to come out on Redbox!!! Gotta love $1

Least Favorite Movies

Michael Jackson: This is it- Not worth the money we paid.

The House in Conneticut

She's just not that into you - it totally tried to condone adultry... didn't like it

Guilty Pleasure

Dr. Pepper and Mt. Dew

Cafe Rios Tres Leches

Asphalt Pie from Wingers

The Office, Accidentally On Purpose, Lost, CSI and Drop Dead Diva (Adam loves Versus: WUFC)

Songs I Loved

Keith Urban- Only you can love me this way

Rascal Flatts- Unstoppable album

Biggest Surprises

Getting Puma, our pit bull, in August

Our leaky fridge that caused us to rip up the Pergo floor in the kitchen and put down tile.

Adam got an A in his Anatomy class

Achievements

Graduating from UVU with my Bachelor's in Elementary Education!

Getting a job with Alpine School District

Adam getting mostly A's in all of his classes!

Getting rid of any credit card debt and staying that way!

Resolutions

Attending the temple together once a month

Taking the dogs for a walk everyday

Losing 20 lbs.

Getting Adam into a Nursing Program

Having FHE with our great friends, the Sheppard's and the McEwen's, every Monday and doing lessons from the Eternal Marriage and Family Relationships manual!

I'm a fixer...

2009-12-23T10:23:00.000-08:00

Just a little epiphany I had today (I guess that's the teacher in me).

I'm a fixer, always have been and always will be. If something is broken I feel the need to fix it. It's like this innate urge that I have a hard time suppressing. I guess it's a good thing to like to fix things but it can also cause a lot of frustration. Ever since I was little I felt like it was my job to make things all better. When Briana died, I felt like I had to fix it so that my family wasn't sad anymore. When my companions and I were struggling with the work in Spain, I felt the need to fix it and make it all better. When my mom died, I felt like I needed to fix the pain and grief that my family was going through again. Still today, when I get frustrated because I can't fix everything, I feel the need to fix myself ( if that makes any sense). This habit, I guess you could call it that, has been a friend and a foe to me over the years.
But over the last month things happened to change how I feel about "fixing" things and it has helped me find a happy medium. A little over a year ago I had a friendship "broken" and I tried for over a year to "fix" it, with no luck. It remained broken and I got even more frustrated because I couldn't fix it. Yet, through that experience I learned that you can't fix everything, no matter how hard you try or what you do. I'm grateful for the experience because it has helped me to let go of the things I can't fix and not focus on them so much:) I know that in the future I will still find things that I "need" to fix but I now feel more confident to let the unimportant "fixings" go because some things in life are going to remain broken and that is okay. The things I can't fix have been covered by the Savior. I love the Christmas season because it helps remind me that my Savior is the master fixer and that I really need to leave more things at his feet rather than hold on to them just because I'm determined to do it by myself. I know that he is there for the big and little things. He is my Lord, Savior and Redeemer and I'm grateful to celebrate his birth. Merry Christmas and here's to a wonderful new year!

We are white trash.... here's the proof.

2009-12-07T21:16:00.000-08:00

These decorations were just taken down a week before Thanksgiving. We are white trash but at least our door doesn't face the street!

Ughhh

2009-11-22T14:22:00.000-08:00

The almost unsurmountable pile of laundry that keeps coming back to my house. Seriously, I'm offering a reward for whoever finds the person that keeps doing laundry and not folding it:)

What I come home to....

2009-11-22T14:17:00.000-08:00

I look forward to seeing these three little faces everyday after work and when we come back from vacation! And this is what we see every time (except Chancey is usually waiting right by the gate rather than up on the porch.

I'm sure that some people look at us with our three dogs and think that we are poster children for Elder Oaks talk about having dogs instead of kids, but we love them and are excited to introduce our kids to them. They have been a nice trial run at parenting before we have kids. :) And for those who are worried... we will have kids sooner than later.

The newest additions

2009-11-22T14:13:00.001-08:00

#1

Who was I kidding? When we got Puma I said, "Oh we'll have her for a while and then we'll find her a good home." That didn't happen and we decided to keep her. She is such a good pup and I can't imagine not having her as a dog. We sure do love this little puppy and look forward to having her for many years to come.

#2
We traded in the Honda and got a new 2009 Ford F150. Some eye candy for you truck lovers.

The Prince

2009-11-22T14:07:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of the Bunker's broken leg that I had posted about earlier. He sure felt like a prince for the five days that he got to be inside and a little pampered.
Bunker the day that he broke his leg. Sitting like a prince inside the warm house with two pillows.

Bunker now that his splint is off.

Up close picture of Bunker's leg. He has a steel pin inside of it.

Remembering and Celebrating

2009-11-22T13:56:00.000-08:00

November and December are always a little somber and reflective with the holidays, my mom and Briana's birthdays and my mom's passing. I guess I should be grateful that it is all rolled up into a couple of months rather than spaced out. Yet, even though there is reason to be gloomy I still find reason to celebrate. I celebrate the life they both lived and how intimately connected I am to both of them. They may not be right here in front of my face but they are always there. My family was and still is one of the greatest blessings in my life. I celebrate the times we had together, the memories and lessons learned. Now my "family" is different but that doesn't take away from what I knew and loved for 23 years. I wish that my Adam could have met my mom and Briana but I feel so grateful when I get the chance to tell him a funny story or cry about something I remember. It is a time of sweet tenderness, with some tears, when I get the chance to tell someone about my mom and sister. How grateful I am for the gospel that has taught me to take a time of sadness and turn it into something sweet. Love you Mom and Bri.
Mom's grave
Sunflowers

Briana's Grave with Sunflowers

I heart this face!

2009-11-22T13:55:00.000-08:00

Love you babe!

UEA trip... forgot to take pictures

2009-11-22T13:47:00.000-08:00

My new friend....... The bronze moose pirate
We went to Colorado over UEA break to visit Chad and Candace and help out at their new house. I had fun spending time with Candace, Kenzie and Braden while Adam put up base board and almost finished the deck with Chad. We wish we could have spent more time but UEA break is only a couple of days. Thanks Chad and Candace and we look forward to seeing you at Christmas!

The random bronze moose that we saw in a little town in Colorado. It was dressed like a pirate. We also found out that there are only $6 Subway footlongs in this town. (Weird)

Grading

2009-11-10T21:55:00.000-08:00

That is all I have been doing for a couple of days since grades are due this Friday. Blah..... my eyes are tired of looking at the same papers over again. Yet it comes with the territory and I should have kept up on it daily or weekly so that I didn't have TWO huge piles of assignments to be graded at the end of the term:). I will almost be MIA until after Friday, for those who contact me regularly. (HA)

Things I'm excited for!!!

2009-11-06T21:17:00.000-08:00

With the holidays creeping up on us here are some of the things that I have been waiting all year for!

- Christmas Music!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm a little obsessed.

-Thanksgiving Break (3 days to just chill)

-Black Friday!!!!!!!!

-Day After Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwiches- Turkey never tasted so good:)

-Christmas crafts with my class

-Decorating my house for Christmas

-Giving people presents

-Sleeping in with Adam

-Getting paid over Christmas Break

-Seeing family

-Not getting stuck in the snow:) Crossing my fingers for that one

-Ice Skating

-Snowball fight in the backyard!

-Sweaters, cardigans and scarfs!

-Christmas candle scents!

-New movies in the theatre

-Dutch Christmas!!!!!

I love, love, love/heart Christmas time. I've already got my music ready to go!

Here is my post

2009-11-04T22:27:00.000-08:00

We just spent too much money on a movie. We saw "Michael Jackson: This is it" on a whim. All I can say is that I saw it. It was alright, the best part was seeing MJ dance. It's back to the dollar theatre for us:)

I can hardly believe it

2009-11-03T16:50:00.000-08:00

It has been three years since I last heard my mother's voice. I can still remember and hear her voice vividly in my mind. You just never realize how endearing your mother's voice is until you can't hear it anymore. All I have are the memories of things she has said to me and I do my best to think about how she would say things when I need her advice. In honor of her I'm going to list some of the sayings that were "hers" that come to me when I need them. :)

-Tough Titty said the kitty when the milk went dry. (I never realized the literal meaning of that until last year and can't believe my mom said that to us:)

-Skiwompus (I still say this to my students when things are crooked)

-Time to get up (She would sing this in the morning.... how I hated it back then and how long to hear it now)

- It'll all work out in the end (someday right?.... )

- You're being silly Jamie (I remember that one a lot)

- Did you finish your homework? ( .......... I think you can figure out that she said that daily)

- Jamie put your dishes/shoes away! (I'm getting better. I don't leave them for days anymore)

- Have you found a job yet? (Every summer and semester that I procrastinated finding one)

- You'll find someone someday. (I did!!!!!)

- Guckies (said for anything you shouldn't put in your mouth)

- I love you Jamie D. (My favorite)

The years continue to pass by but my memories remain with me.

I'm already one day behind.....

2009-11-02T19:30:00.000-08:00

My sister-in-law Paula has reminded me that it is National Blogging Month.... and I'm already one day behind but I'm going to attempt it and upload pictures later. :) ( This is all for you Paula.... consider it a part of your birthday present:) We have lots to report on so here is a brief list.

Friday, October 30: I made it through the craziness of Halloween at school. Two Halloween Parades, a party later and I'm still alive. So tired.

Saturday, October 31: Woke up late, did a little laundry, took the dogs to the park to play fetch and then.....................headed to the vet because Bunker BROKE his leg! Snapped the radius and ulna in his left front leg. $440 later we find out that they are wrapping his leg, giving us some pain meds, x-rays, and telling us that he needs to have a $1,200 surgery. WHAT?! Kids definitely seem cheaper than dogs at this point. We decided to just take him home and talk to OUR vet on Monday.

Sunday, November 1: Didn't sleep well because Bunker was whimpering most of the night and having to be carried outside to do his business. Made it through church and then remembered it was my Mom's birthday. Still happy but miss her lots. Went to dinner at my sisters, visited the cemetery with everybody, got free school stuff and then spent time with Adam.

Monday, November 2: Found out that OUR vet is able to fix Bunker for $300 and felt so relieved! Went to dinner with my Dad and sister to celebrate my mom's birthday and really enjoyed it:) Came home to an empty house and had some time to ponder. Good times and happy days. My mom is awesome and I'm so blessed to be known as her daughter! Just gotta keep looking for those blessings and being cheery.

Here pig, pig, pig, pig.....

2009-10-25T21:20:00.001-07:00

That's right. I'm quarantined to my house until Wednesday. I have the H1N1 flu but it actually wasn't that bad for me. I mean I feel really congested and achy but my fever stayed under control and I never had to throw up (sorry if that was too much info for some of you:). Not to say that I want to have the Swine flu ever again, but I really hate feeling nauseated, so I'll take the body aches and congestion. The one downer is that I can't teach until Wednesday because I might still be contagious. I feel well enough to teach but the doctor told me that I have to use my sick days. I really, really, really didn't want to but Adam keeps reminding me that I can't be selfish and put other people at risk. I made up my sub plans, took my mask with me and headed to my school. It only took me about an hour to get all of my copies done and the classroom ready for my subs. On a positive note, I will have lots of time on Monday and Tuesday to catch up on grading and get some other units ready to go.
On a funny and slightly ironic note, I was checking my email and found an email from my Grandpa Tate about how to prevent the H1N1 flu, on the day that my symptoms really started to show. Funny... and if you received the same email make sure that you follow those instructions:) I had three students out with the swine flu a couple of weeks ago, so I either got it there or some random place. Who knows. Wash your hands and drink plenty of fluids people.

Happy Anniversary:)

2009-10-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

So you know how Adam and I are hopeless romantics so here is a recap of what we did for our anniversary and other romantic holidays. (for your viewing pleasure)

1st Anniversary (2008)- Shooting at the range and a night at Little America
Valentine's Day (2009)- Shooting at the range
2nd Anniversary (2009)- Haunted Forest and dinner at the Melting Pot

We had a great time going to the Melting Pot and running through the forest from scary people. Now that we've done the not so usual anniversary date, I think this might turn into a tradition. Who knows? My gift from Adam was very sweet. He brought home a "husband and wife" Willow Tree figurine and The Christmas Edition of the Worldwide Ward Cookbook! I've been coveting this cookbook every time that I walk into Deseret Book and Adam knew it so he surprised me with a very thoughtful gift! Love you honey and thank you for helping me learn how to be the best that I can be over the past two years! I can't wait for the rest of eternity!

Jamie

I love my job!!!

2009-09-25T19:19:00.000-07:00

Well, that pretty much describes how I feel about teaching. I literally forget that I'm getting paid most of the time until pay day comes and I remember..."Oh yeah. They pay me to do this!" Now I don't want you to think that there haven't been stressful days but 95% of the time it is a good day. My kids are great and quick to learn. It takes a lot and my hours don't end at 4:00 PM because there is still so much to do but I feel accomplished at the end of the day, like I've made a difference. I've been working closely with one of our small group autism teachers and we have two boys coming to our class a couple of times a day. They are great and I'm so glad to have them be a part of my class and to see my kids learn to love and appreciate them. Special Education is so near and dear to my heart because of my little sister Briana and I'm excited for the day when I can go back and get my special ed degree. I'm also glad that we have decided to have kids next year after I finish my first year of teaching. I don't know how I could be a first year teacher and be pregnant or a have kid.... that would be really hard. At least I have this year to get my feet on the ground and stock up my files:)
I had a sub for a half day this last week while I attended some training about our reading program. I would much rather teach while being sick then make a substitute plan..... it is so much more work because I can't just fill in the blanks when I get there. I do appreciate subs though because they have to interpret what I'm trying to write down:) Anywho, I feel so blessed to have my job and grateful for the talents that Heavenly Father has blessed me with!

All the controversy...

2009-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

I just read President Obama's speech for students that he will give tomorrow and I am impressed. I understand people's fears of it being politically directed but I'm am impressed that the White House released it a day early so that everyone had a chance to read it and make their own decision. My school isn't watching it because we didn't really have enough time to get word out to the parents so that they could have the option to keep their kids home or send them to school, but I'm sure that if we would have had a bit more time we might have been able to show it to whoever wanted to watch it. (I am disappointed that the White House couldn't have let educators know about this a couple of weeks ago so that we could have done more to prepare.... that seems a little fishy to me but not a deal breaker. I really related to his remarks towards inner city students because of my experience at Dixon Middle School and the experience I continue to gain. I'm trying to figure out if there is a way that I can have my students read or see it but I'll have to talk to my principal.
I really believe that students, especially inner city school students, will benefit from this speech and I wish that they could have made this announcement a week earlier in order to give schools more time to prepare since we can't just "show" anything, whether it's from the President or not without parental permission. I'm also pretty sure that if they had given more time, more schools would be watching it tomorrow, even the ones that are staunch republican. (seriously)

I have great friends!

2009-08-31T17:20:00.000-07:00

So for awhile I felt like I really didn't have "good" friends. You know, the ones that you can always count on. It started about a year ago but I really feel like I'm in a good place now and realize how many great friends I do have! Here is a little tribute to some of them. (P.S. Adam is my BEST friend, but that is a given.)

Brooke- My sister and best friend. She is always there to listen to my silly antics. I talk to her almost daily (it used to be daily before school started) and she knows pretty much everything going on in my life. She lets me spoil her kids a little and always feeds me:) Thank you for being there and tolerating my ranting and raving at times:)

Bekah- (not that she'll ever see this:) Even though she lives in SLC and is going to Italy for a month, we still talk and make time for each other. She was one of my favorite roommates and I consider her a friend for life! We are a lot alike but she is the better version! Love you Bek and will miss you when you leave for Italy!

Carrie- Again, long distances don't keep us from each other. She lives in Norway but we get to talk by google, blog, email and facebook:) She and I have been friends since our freshman year of college and she is also a friend for life! I miss being able to call her....daily. I sent her a package the other day and totally picked up my phone to call her before I realized that I couldn't.... I was a little disappointed LOL. Care, you are so great and know me so well. I'm excited to talk to you at Christmas, whether that's in person or by phone.

McKenna- We have only been friends for a couple of months but she is my kindred spirit! Again, she and her hubby are moving to Texas in a couple of weeks but we see them almost daily! She is one of the kindest and most thoughtful people I've met in my life and I'm grateful to call her my friend! Adam and I will be so lonely and bored after you leave but are already planning a trip to TX! SK you are our besties! So many memories yet to be made!

Cami and Rachel- We've been separated because of internships for the summer but I'm so excited to have them back in town! We met in our first married ward and miss being able to see them each Sunday. So glad to have you closer now and can't wait to hang out.... and carve pumpkins in October! (minus the finger bleeding:)

Lacey- My life would not be the same without her! She is teaching just over the hill at Eagle Valley Elementary and she is a friend for life as well! We have so much fun together and laugh up a storm together! I know that I can call her and tell her about my crazy day and she'll have something to make me laugh! Hopefully we can teach at the same school one day! Lace, you are the best!

Heidi- Hello Lady! She was my trainer in the mission and although we don't see each other daily, we always pick up where we left off! She is so good to check up on me when she hasn't heard from me in awhile. We had many laughs on the mission and still keep it up! She's a life friend and one of the best dance buddies I've had! Too bad that Adam won't come with us... we danced up a storm when I was still single:) Thanks for helping me get "back into life" after I came home!

My grandma's and aunts- Losing my mom was and still is hard but I have so many women in my family that are always checking up on me and doing little things that my mom would do if she were here:) They are my angels here on earth!

Tress, Paula, Candace and Brooke- My sweet mother-in-law and sisters-in-law are so good to entertain me when we're together. We have a great time together and they are so good to find out what is going on in my life. I feel very blessed to have them as my family and know that they are always there for me! I really do consider them to be more like a mom and sisters and look forward to seeing them!

Kathy, Kim, Heather, Jill, Melanie and Michelle- My step mom and sisters were put into a hard situation when we blended families but they always make an effort to be involved in my life and develop a closer relationship. Blending families can be difficult but they are doing a pretty good job and have lots of patience. Love you guys.

So I do have great friends and sometimes I just need to focus on what I do have rather than what I have lost:) Thanks to all who are a positive influence on my life!

ONE Week and 27 faces:)

2009-08-13T17:31:00.001-07:00

Maybe if I put a spoon on my nose the first day they'll think I'm a decoration in the room.........

Now I am down to a week before school starts... where did the time go? I seriously feel like it was just yesterday that I accepted the position, but that was 3 months ago. I finally got my keys last week and moved my stuff in today. We've also had new teacher training for the past three days but now we are apparently "prepared". (Whatever that means:) I feel confident that it'll be a great year and that I'll love my kids but it's overwhelming to try and digest all of the things that I am supposed to know about the school and the curriculum by next Thursday. Being in the portable is another story. There are some limitations out there that frustrate me but things will work out and we'll have fun.
My classroom is chaos right now but I'm going out there again tomorrow and Saturday to make it come together! I'll post pictures of course. I can't believe that I'm a real teacher... it's scary at times but exhilarating at the same time. We got our class list and I'm sending out post cards tomorrow so wish me luck and no writer's cramp:)

To my dearest Carrie Anne...

2009-07-06T10:17:00.000-07:00

Today is Carrie Anne's birthday. We have known each other for 8 years and she is one of my best friends for life. Although she lives in Norway and we don't get to see each other, we pick up where we left off whenever we talk. She is someone who knows me inside and out and I love her dearly! She is 26 today and I wanted to list 26 things I love about her and memories of us.
1. We were in the same Book of Mormon class our first semester at college and lived at the same dorm but we didn't become the best of friends until the next semester:)
2. She is my ever faithful dance partner!
3. I can tell her anything and she'll always listen!
4. She wrote me on a regular basis while I was on my mission.
5. I remember one of the nights in Rexburg when we slid about 4 feet down the snowy sidewalk and then took a picture!
6. She is very crafty and creative.
7. She loves salsa music as much as I do.
8. I love and miss hearing her laugh!
9. She comments on my blog!
10. We had an "unplanned" meeting at the temple while she was in the MTC.
11. She gave me the hug that I needed after my mom's cancer spread.
12. She makes freaking awesome pumpkin cookies or muffins!
13. She served a mission in Norway and worked miracles there.
14. Our missions almost overlapped but I got home in time to take her to the MTC.
15. We will always be friends no matter where we live!
16. We took a geology class together and wrote notes back and forth to each other every class period! (You were the only reason I didn't fall asleep:)
17. She tackles challenges head on and succeeds.
18. She shows a genuine interest in other peoples' lives.
19. She exhibits Christ-like love.
20. She's not afraid to tell me like it is, and I appreciate that.
21. She knows how to make my day:)
22. She is an excellent cook.
23. She has been through a lot in her life but she always keeps a smile on her face.
24. She makes time for people.
25. We felt an earthquake late one night in Rexburg while we were up talking.
26. I know that the Lord sent her into my life because she is the friend I need!

Love you Carrie and hope that you have a wonderful birthday! Your package will arrive soon with a surprise!

Sunday Will Come

2009-06-30T16:32:00.000-07:00

8 years ago today...

2009-06-17T09:54:00.000-07:00

My little sister Briana left us and went to live with our Heavenly Father. It was one of the saddest days of my life but I rejoice in the knowledge and testimony that I have of the plan of salvation. Jesus Christ has made it possible through the atonement for us to be together again and live forever. My life was forever changed but for the good. In memory of my sister, we are going to the temple tonight to do her work. Here are a few pictures of her. You'll notice in a couple of the pictures that Briana has her arms around Brooke and I. To me it symbolizes more than just a hug but a sweet reminder that she is keeping us all together. Even though our lives were stressful at the time, Briana was the one keeping us all together. I truly miss experiencing the pure love of Christ on a daily basis because that is what Briana gave us everyday.

The three girls together
Our little family!

Camping

I love you Bri. Hope you and Mom are having a great day and we'll see you later tonight!

100 Things about me for my 100th post!

2009-06-08T21:49:00.000-07:00

Here are my 100 things, so be prepared to stay awhile.

1. I sing at the top of my lungs in the car constantly!
2. I have two dogs and no kids…. Maybe I should get on the ball.
3. I have a fetish with lace.
4. I spend way too much money on food at the grocery store.
5. I don’t like to play Xbox unless it’s Scene It.
6. I say “your mom” quite often.
7. I had a lazy eye when I was little and my eyeliner always creeps up into the crease of my eyelid because of it.
8. I have had surgery on both of my knees.
9. I tend to speak only in Spanish when I’m under anesthetics… ask Brooke.
10. I crank up Spanish music or tv channel when Adam is not home.
11. I don’t take my allergy pill everyday like I should.
12. I check facebook and my blog daily.
13. I talk to my sister on a daily basis.
14. If I can’t get a hold of people in my family I get a gut wrenching feeling that they’ve either been abducted or in an accident.
15. I watch Lost and the Office on a regular basis.
16. I would love to write a column in the newspaper someday.
17. When I get really mad I speak in Spanish.
18. I get road rage when I’m driving by myself and I call everyone “Chancho”.
19. I think about writing thank you notes and then never get around to it.
20. I sent my wedding thank you notes a year later.
21. I love going to see my in-laws.
22. I struggle at times with putting my dishes away.
23. I have fallen asleep in a temple session.
24. I miss my mom daily and cry at least three times a week about it.
25. I’m not a bad person for missing my mom or crying because I keep going on with life.
26. I love Cheeto’s Puffs.
27. If ice cream is on sale I will buy it 99% of the time.
28. I love to have people over for dinner!
29. I am perfectly fine letting Adam mow the lawn.
30. I have the most patient husband in the world.
31. I love him more each day.
32. I have the bad habit of biting my nails.
33. I have yet to break that habit.
34. I sucked my thumb until I was in 4th grade…. Old… I know.
35. I will fall asleep in the car if we are in it for more than an hour.
36. I get really shy when I meet new people.
37. I would love to live on the East Coast and hope that we either go to Maryland or Washington State for Adam’s Masters Degree.
38. I am obsessed with Pike Street and would go there everyday if I could.
39. I still have yet to go to Argentina but I plan to do it someday.
40. My car is my room on wheels.
41. I have a hard time sleeping when Adam isn’t in the bed.
42. I’m an expert procrastinator.
43. I have done the Big Judd Challenge ( BYU-I): Eating a 1 lb. burger, fries, soda and ice cream in one sitting, and I have eaten the 1 lb burger at Fuddruckers.
44. I look at everyone’s wedding photos on facebook.
45. I love going furniture shopping.
46. I hate going car shopping.
47. I totally thought I was old enough to get married at 18 and now I’m very glad I didn’t.
48. Serving a mission made me a better wife.
49. I would like to buy a 22 rifle.
50. I have swum with dolphins and sting rays.
51. My fourth grade class made our student teacher cry.
52. For a couple of years I pretty much copied everything my cousin Lauren did.
53. I miss being able to talk to my friend Carrie Anne on a regular basis.
54. I wish we had a home phone so she could call me.
55. I HATE applying for jobs.
56. My first job was at the McDonald’s in Spanish Fork.
57. I had my first kiss when I was 21.
58. I have a fetish for cookbooks.
59. My family will tell you not to wake me up from a nap… ever.
60. My favorite color changes on a daily, sometimes hourly, basis.
61. Don’t ask me to pick my favorite food… just ask me what I’m in the mood for.
62. I practiced signing the last name of the boys I liked in middle school.
63. I don’t make my bed regularly (sorry Grandpa Tate)
64. I LOVE getting together with my family!!
65. Girls weekends are one of the highlights of my year!
66. I want to go to Elko to eat at the Basque steak house and see Kim, Kiley and Gabbie.
67. I play Bunko once or twice a month.
68. I love to plan parties!
69. I am not good at shooting things on the Xbox.
70. I was not a perfect missionary.
71. I used to go dancing twice a week (Salsa and Country).
72. I prefer pico de gallo to blended salsa.
73. I am in love with the tres leches from Café Rio.
74. I was a horrible ward missionary after I returned from my mission.
75. I do this weird thing with my tongue if I’m trying or thinking really hard (I get it from my mom).
76. I have given a 40 minute talk before…. My mom had to signal me to stop.
77. I used to lie to my parents on a regular basis as a teenager.
78. I have called in sick to work when I really wasn’t sick.
79. I have taken one pregnancy test… it was negative.
80. I have horrible teeth.
81. I’ve had two root canals.
82. I get really tired and want to go to bed at around 9:45.
83. I have many books that I have never read.
84. I love peaches and cottage cheese or pears and cheese.
85. I love to hear gossip, but I’m working on it.
86. I frequently find moldy food in my fridge because I’ve forgotten about it.
87. In video games I move the controller in the direction I want to go before I push the button… as if it really makes a difference.
88. I pick my zits.
89. I usually don’t fold the laundry I do for a day or two, or it usually just ends up in a pile on the floor in front of the closet
90. I salsa dance in the house at least once a week.
91. I had a mini crush on one of my first zone leaders…. Hna. Hill you know what I’m talking about.
92. I swear that bugs are mainly attracted to my face… they dive bomb me all the time.
93. Courtney and I don’t talk about our first three weeks together as companions but she was one of my favorite companions that taught me the most!
94. I freaking love to sing when we play Guitar Hero or Rock Band.
95. I really want to watch all of the seasons of Desperate House Wives even though I vowed never to watch it.
96. Did I mention that I HATE looking for jobs?
97. The nick name of my first kiss was “C-Bass”
98. Adam says that I cackle when I laugh or that I breathe in while laughing.
99. I have a hard time keeping little secrets.
100. I want to write children’s books or some type of book before I die.

Stay at home...... wife?

2009-06-08T12:50:00.000-07:00

So this is the start of my second week without summer employment. I NEED A JOB!! I can only clean my house so many times during the day (although it is a lot cleaner now that I have nothing to do), before I start to go nuts. I've been applying and applying but apparently nobody wants to hire me. Any suggestions? Maybe I could start a babysitting business.... who knows? One thing is for sure, I do not like being a stay at home wife.... maybe I need kids? LOL

Gardens and Old Friends

2009-06-07T21:18:00.000-07:00

We finished planting our garden this weekend, as well as hacking down all of the weeds. It was a lot of work but I'm so excited to have a garden. We planted squash, tomatoes(thanks Grandma and Grandpa Tate), beans, peppers, watermelon, cucumbers, cilantro, basil, onions, carrots, lettuce and cabbage. Here are some pictures of the garden boxes.

This is the fire pit that we built in the back yard. We've already done smores about 10 times with friends and we love it!

Bunker also keeps us laughing with his silly moments. Here he is flossing or scratching his mouth.... you decide:)

Bunker also has a new playmate! Chancey, our old family dog, has come to live with us permanently! These two have become fast friends and love going on walks to the park. They sleep in the kennel together and are doing great! Bunker is way more active but Chancey calms Bunker down as well.
Chancey: The old soul
Bunker and Chancita

Memorial Day

2009-06-07T21:08:00.000-07:00

Here are some belated pictures from our fabulous Memorial Day! We went up to Evanston with Bunker and took the four wheelers out with the Bolinders and Kevin and Tress! Bunker came with us on the four wheelers and did really well. He kept up with us for a 1/2 mile at 35 mph! He is one fast dog and he probably ran about ten miles that day. After he ran that first half mile he got really tired so I had to hold him in between Adam and I on the four wheeler. Once he had a good rest he definitely let me know:) Tress and Kevin then fed us some delicious steaks and potatoes! Evanston has become my second home and I love it!
Holding Bunker on the 4-wheeler
Kevin and Tress

Lindsey (Adam's cousin), Robert and Emma came to visit for a couple of days as well! We had a good time and introduced them to the Kong Kone at Macy's!

Cute little Emma

Instructions on how to be a grown up:

2009-05-14T20:00:00.000-07:00

A. Find a Job (check!)

I got a call from Mr. Tillman at Hidden Hollow Elementary and he offered me their 4th grade position! It's in Saratoga Springs and has only been open a year. I'm super excited and feel very grateful to have a job for next year. The Lord has blessed us so much...we are SO grateful! Anywho, just thought I'd drop a note to everyone. Thanks for your prayers on our behalf as well! We couldn't have done it without you!

First Pictures of a College Grad!

2009-05-11T23:53:00.000-07:00

Can you find me?