Woody's Gal

FYI

2010-01-09T20:36:00.004-06:00

I am still going forward with my blog. Since I am so frustrated with this one, I have decided to make a new one. I'll post the new website as soon as the following happens.....we get a new computer! Both our PC and laptop have stopped downloading any pictures. And then they erase them from the memory card. So For Christmas Brent and I are getting each other a new computer!! So happy :)! Then you can see that sweet face of Grace's again!
I will be keeping this one up because, well let's face it, it was a lot of work and there are some great pictures on here. I also use this blog as Grace's babybook, somewhat.
I'll be posting the new site soon so don't give up on me!!!

I have no clue!

2009-11-09T18:29:00.003-06:00

I did something to my blog and I have no idea how to fix it!!!!! I wanted to change my background. I clicked on the "Layout" tab and there was a tab "customize". I clicked on it and it said that it would save my previous layout. Well THIS is what I got and I cannot find my previous layout. AND the "Layout" tab is now labeled "template". POOP!!!!! (me swearing)

I have looked up how to fix it but there is nothing telling how to fix it. I am so frustrated. I just feel like scrapping it and not having a blog. Or, just starting a new one.

Happy Birthday! Happy Birthday! Happy Birthday! Happy Birthday to you!!

2009-11-06T10:23:00.001-06:00

Grace and I got to go to my cousin's, Stephanie, house for a family birthday party. We celebrated her son, Josh, my mom and grandma's birthdays. There was face painting, a bounce house, and Stephanie's husband, Leonard, has a tractor so we got go on a hay ride. Not to mention Bar-b-que!!! Grace and Josh stayed up until 11:00 p.m playing together. She had the best time!
I loved seeing my family and Grace loves going to Stephanie and Leonard's. Their house is over a hundred years old and Leonard's Grandfather built it and Leonard has added on over the years.
Happy Birthday, Josh, Mom and Grandma!!!

Pumpkins

2009-10-18T15:37:00.000-05:00

Brent and I took Grace to this little pumpkin patch yesterday and she loved it. She found a small pumpkin and carried it around with her the whole time. We ended up having to buy it because she was so attached. We were out 50 cents!!!
Brent took some pictures of me and Grace and this was my favorite one! (of me)

Wedding pictures

2009-10-09T21:54:00.000-05:00

These were taken at Kim's wedding (my sister's sister-in law) while we were in Utah. I love, love, love the one of Grace hugging on my nephew, Nicholas. They always have the best time together!! It was a great wedding and Kim had the coolest dress.

I wear my Sunglasses at Night!

2009-09-14T00:16:00.001-05:00

Grace just LOVES to wear these. She's just too cute!

Orlando

2009-08-27T09:31:00.000-05:00

So I have not fallen off the face of the earth but been a little busy. Grace and I just got back from Orlando yesterday. My sister, Beth, and her family moved there because her husband got an awesome job working for Del Sol. Check out this company because their stuff is soooo cool!!! Anyways...we drove with Beth and the boys and we got to be there for my nephew's, Nicholas, first day of school and we went to the beach a few times and we did a lot of swimming. I have no pictures because carrying my camera on the plane would have been too much. But my sister has some if she'll forward them to me...hinty hint hint...

Go Astros!

2009-07-27T23:50:00.000-05:00

Brent's job comes with some perks. He happens to "know a guy" who works for the Astros and we got free tickets to Saturday night's game. My sister, Beth, and her family came up and went to the game with us along with a friend of theirs. We had so much fun with them this weekend. Grace and Nicholas have the best time together and Grace is in love with the latest addition to our family, Jackson. We were all so sad to see them go today. But knowing us, we'll be in Austin in like a week.

Our Weekend

2009-07-14T11:36:00.000-05:00

We had a family date night to our new County Line Restaurant. If you have forgotten, this is my favorite restaurant. They are new so the service was not the best but my ribs were everything I hoped for! Yum!! And since it was on the water, they had a area where you could feed a swarm of catfish. Grace loved it and she really liked watching the boats on the lake. It was a great night!!

Photo contest

2009-07-08T21:30:00.001-05:00

Please vote for Grace for cutest baby contest!!! Thank you!!

http://gapc-vote.com/?p=1594324

A new car!!!

2009-06-25T11:47:00.001-05:00

For Father's Day I got Brent this...

And to tow our luggage I also got him this...

Isn't he special??!!!!

Trikie!

2009-06-13T18:55:00.000-05:00

We found this wonderful restored pink antique tricycle and Grace loved riding it. It was $100 so we thought we would let her ride around the store for free.

Austin

2009-06-13T18:39:00.000-05:00

So last weekend our little family went to Austin for our nephew's, Jackson, blessing. We stayed at my Grandparents and had a ball! Grace and I stayed until Wednesday while Brent had to go back Sunday. We missed him and I know he wished he could stay with us. Too bad the job got in the way.
We went shopping, out to lunch, watched old movies and my sister, Reeta, have a lot of fun doing Grace's hair. So cute!
My awesome grandparents took us all out to dinner and let me pick. So of course I picked my favorite restaurant County Line!!! I love the beef ribs!! The only thing I would change is for them to hand out bibs.

Good Hair Day

2009-06-02T22:02:00.000-05:00

I took Grace to get her hair done today. It was great because the lady showed me how to "properly" condition Grace's hair and how to "properly" comb it! I am white. I did not grow up with this type of hair so I had no clue. I felt like an educated woman after the appointment. And now Grace's hair is so cute and looks soooooo much better!!!

Bon Voyage!!

2009-05-28T13:17:00.000-05:00

I need help! (I know, I ask for help... A LOT!) For Brent and mine's 10 year anniversary we are wanting to go on a cruise. Our anniversary is in October and we won't be going until next March. But I want to get a start on planning it so I was wondering where do I start? I know a lot of you have already been on one so I need you advice on where, who with, what you wish you knew, anything!
We are so excited to go and we are going with my sister, Beth and her husband, Sam and our best friends Kia and Christina. We are all celebrating our 10th anniversary this year so we thought: Let's all go!!!
P.S. We are partial to a Disney Cruise but I feel guilty not taking kids with us.

County Line

2009-05-19T13:55:00.000-05:00

My favorite restaurant is called County Line and I have only known of one in Austin. (There is actually 2). BEST BBQ in the world! And they are opening one in Conroe!!! I'll be the first in line with my bib on.

http://www.countylineconroe.com/

What's for dinner?

2009-05-09T00:04:00.001-05:00

PASTA!!!!

I have't fallen off the Earth!!!!

2009-05-04T00:39:00.000-05:00

I know I haven't blogged in a while but my camera broke a few months ago and we are waiting until Brent gets his raise to fix it. I have hated, I know it a strong word but I'm using it!, not having my camera and I don't like to post anything without pictures. SO here are the following things I have missed posting without pictures:

Grace's 1st birthday

Grace's Blessing

Easter

My cousin's son's birthday

Visiting family

Playgroup

My new nephew!

My new little cousin

I need my camera back!!!!!!

Pictures are up!

2009-03-29T23:50:00.000-05:00

If you go to my "favorites" on the right, and go to Shay Photography blog, you can see some of the pictures we had taken in Salt Lake. So sweet and so fun!! Thanks, Shay!

She's Stuck With Us!!!

2009-03-22T00:20:00.000-05:00

We are in Salt Lake right now because last Thursday we had Grace sealed to us! We wanted to have the sealing done in the Salt Lake Temple because that was where we were married.
She looked so sweet in her white dress that my mom made her and the temple gave her a little flower to put in her hair. She liked the nursey more than anything and really didn't notice when we left.
My mom and dad and Corbin drove all the way from Austin and they were such a help! Brent's family was so great and most of them were able to the sealing. Then we all went to our favorite resturant, Asian Star and had their Walnut Shrimp!!!! SO GOOD!!!
Grace has loved being at Grandma Dee's and loves to chase after the dogs and she went for a ride with Grandma on her scooter today. We also got our pictures done by one of my favorite photographers, Shay (her website is in my favorites) and I can't wait to see them!
It has been a really great trip.

I've Created a Monster!!!!

2009-02-11T23:41:00.000-06:00

Tonight Grace and I went to the mall to get Brent a birthday present. She has become my favorite shopping partner. She likes the colors and the bright lights of stores and always grabs the clothes when we walk by. Tonight though was different.
We were walking down the mall and as we walked by Build a Bear, she reached out and very loudly went, "AAAAAA", meaning... "I want to go in there!!!" Hello! I can't believe she recognized that store let alone screamed to go in. Don't kids wait to do that until they are 2?
I took her in for about five minutes and she played with a few bears and seemed satisfied. But we walked by again, and she did it again!!! And the thing that surprises me the most is that we went into one last week with my cousin and her kids so she totally remembered it! Smarty pants!
It was also her first time to play in the children area. This mall has an awesome play area! Grace loved it and even made a few friends! She and one little girl would run up to each other and scream. They thought it was the funnest thing. She was soooo cute!!!

Finally and Finalized!!!!

2009-02-03T23:15:00.000-06:00

I know it's been awhile but with moving, strep, finalizing Grace's adoption and burying our dog, we've been a little busy. But the great news is that....Grace is all ours!!!! We had to go back to Detroit to finalize with the court so we got to see our friends, Kia and Christina and the boys.

Grace was precious, of course and was so good through the whole hearing. The Judge called it their "Smile Day" because they only get to do adoption hearings once month. We took pictures with the Judge afterwards and Grace loved his gavel. We think she's going to be the next Ruth Bater Ginsberg. And one of the best things was that Christina got to come with us so it felt like we had family there.

Some new things Grace is doing......SHE'S WALKING!!! 9 1/2 months can you believe it? She can also wave, clap and I taught her how to blow a kiss yesterday. She's keeps mimicking what we say so she has said things like, "Good Girl", "Duh", and she'll growl for you too. So cute!!

To Our Duke

2009-01-02T19:53:00.000-06:00

I have always wanted to do a post dedicated to our dog, Duke. Especially since Grace was born I have felt he has been somewhat neglected. And after yesterday, he deserves it even more. We had to put our sweet puppy to rest after he developed kidney failure.
Duke has been the best dog. He was loyal and devoted and the most well-traveled puppy I have ever met. We even took him on our anniversary trip to Canada a couple years ago. He has been to Niagara Falls, Mount Rushmore, Pikes Place Market and traveled by plane about 6 times.
He was great "heater" in the winter and would sleep under the covers by our feet. He would check on Grace for us and if she was crying, he would come and get us. He has been our comforter and baby for years while we battled infertility. And he has been our protector in many situations.
We brought him to my Grandparent's home to bury him, and my whole family came out to dig his grave and grieve with us. He did not just make an impact on Brent and me, but to everyone who met him.
We will miss him and he will always be more than "just a dog" to us. He will always be our Duke, our first baby.

We love you, Dukie-Duke!!!!!

GREAT NEWS!!!!

2008-12-24T12:55:00.000-06:00

We have a court date to finalize for Grace's adoption!!! January 9th!!!! And she'll be all ours. We have to go back to Michigan to the hearing and we are so excited to see our friends. Can't wait until she'll all ours!!

First tooth!

2008-12-02T19:51:00.001-06:00

Grace has FINALLY gotten her first tooth!!!. Since we are at the mercy of my parent's and grandparent's computers, I do not have pictures. But take my word for it, she's soooooo cute!!!!!!

Moving and Goodbye's

2008-11-20T16:34:00.001-06:00

So I know I am suppose to be posting Disney World pics but since we are leaving in less than 6 days I thought I would let everyone know that we are moving too..... TEXAS!!! Brent got a job in The Woodlands, Texas (north of Houston). For all of our Utahan friends, we tried very hard to get a job there first. But nothing panned out.

Brent and I are very excited for this adventure and I am very excited to be near family again especially with Grace. But I as I pack and tie-up loose ends I am very sad to leave Michigan.

There are things that I will miss.

* Playing Basketball with friends from my ward 3 times a week. I love the socializing with getting a workout.

* Our FSA Playgroup that we go to once a month. The support and friendship that we get from them has been something I never realized I would need as much as I do since we have had Grace.

* Brent's job. I love his boss and his coworkers. His director has seen Brent's talent and passion for his job and has continually given him his deserving praise. His coworkers have been like family and have the funnest time working together.

* Somerset Mall. I know, I had to mention shopping but WHAT A MALL!!! And it has my name in it. Spelled wrong but still.

* Living so close to Canada that we get Canadian radio stations and t.v. stations.

* And last but so NOT lease, our friends. Last night we had to say "good-bye" to Kai, Christina and their boys. She has been my sister while we have been here and her boys are like my nephews. I trusted her with Grace more then anyone and I could always count on her to watch her for me or pick us up at the airport at midnight or take me to the mechanic to get my car. I always had a shopping buddy even if we were going grocery shopping and she always encouraged me to loose weight by running or walking with me. We always had someone to hang out with on a Saturday night and play board games with. I had a hard time going a day without talking to her and I think our phone bill will be much higher now. :)

Everyone is welcomed to come visit as soon as we get unpacked and settled. So in about 3 years. Just kidding!!!!!!!

National Adoptioon Month

2008-11-14T22:51:00.001-06:00

My friend, Alynn, had this video on her blog a few months ago and I had tears just running down my cheeks when it was done. It is exactly how I felt all those years we were trying to or waiting for a baby. It's National Adoption Month and I wanted to share this with you. Have fun crying your eyes out!

1st stop, Atlanta, Georgia!!!!!!!!

2008-11-10T20:16:00.000-06:00

Grace Love it!!!

Maddie had one too many drinks.

She turned into a "Dancing Queen" hopped up on sugar.

Seriously the sweetest thing!

Brent trying some Coke

The kids meeting the Coke Bear. That was the coolest suit!

My adorable friend, Kelly and her twins, Aidan and Hannah.

I love this picture of Aidan!

Grace with her new friends.

This is what you see when you first walk in.

For our first part of our trip, we wanted to stop in Atlanta to tour the Coca Cola Museum since Brent is a huge fan of the stuff. We were not disappointed! Not only do you get to see how it's made and all of the Coke paraphernalia, they also had a Coke art gallery, a 4-D movie ( 3-D and the seats move and water squirts on you), and a tasting station where you can taste 65 different type of sodas that the Coke company makes for all over the world. I got sick. The grossest one is from Italy.
We got to stay with my friend, Kelly, and her darling family. Kelly and I have known each other for about 15 years. She even lived with my family growing up (not to mention I dated her brother for 2 1/2 years.) It was like seeing an sister again and when we had to leave I had to hold back tears. She has the sweetest kids. Her oldest daughter came and sat right in my lap when we got there and really didn't leave my side the rest of the time.
Kelly also has 2 twins 2 months older then Grace and they had the best time playing with each other!!! When we were at the museum, I caught Grace holding Hannah's hand while we had our strollers parked next to each other. It was so sweet!!!!
Thanks Kelly and Chris for the wonderful time in Atlanta!!!!
Next Up... Disney World!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Disney World, here we come!!!!

2008-10-25T12:04:00.000-05:00

We will be gone for 2 weeks visiting Disney World, Key West, FL, the Coca Cola Museum, and Paula Dean's restaurant in Georgia!!! I'll post when we get back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Your Roses Really Smell Like Poo!"

2008-10-13T12:16:00.000-05:00

So I need help. Grace has a great trash can for her diapers. It's a Diaper Champ and we really like it. The thing is is that it smells. Smells bad. When ever we change the bag, we make it a point to Lysol and disinfect the whole thing. But when you walk into Grace's room or even our apartment, you can smell it. Does anyone have suggestions on how this can smell better?

9 Years!!!

2008-10-06T09:02:00.000-05:00

10 years and 1 month ago I was sitting in my cubical at work on a Saturday waiting for my friend Dennis to call to tell me when we were going to get together that night to hang out. He called, but to cancel.

Instead he said, "Hey, my friend, Brent, just got home from his mission and he has tickets to the University of Utah football game tonight. Do you want to go with him?"

All I thought was, "Ewwe! Another return missionary who thinks he's God's gift to women because he went on one". But I had nothing else to do on a Saturday night so I to Dennis Brent could call me. Hey, free dinner, right?

When I answered the door, he looked nothing liked I pictured. He was a a great dresser and he was blond! (I have always had a thing for blonds)

A week later I realized I was in love and 2 weeks after that, I knew he was the one. 13 months after our first date, we were married in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity. And after 9 years, 7 moves, 4 states, 2 mortgages, 1 medical degree, 2 dogs and 1 precious little girl later, here we are!!

Without Brent I would have never known that a car trip could be that much fun or that I could do anything because he says I could. Or that men are romantic in real life and not just in movies. Or that someone else thinks I am that significant and amazing as I think they are as well.

As I write this in my pajamas, with my hair looking like Fred The Midnight-Hairdresser got a hold of my head, I know that if he walked in at this moment, he would still think I am beautiful. Okay, he would know that I can look better. But he would still kiss me and that is all that matters!!!

He has made me so happy all of these years and I am so happy that I can finally see him as a father. He makes me fall in love with him again every time he holds Grace and plays with her.

And as we go on our date tonight to Dave and Busters, I know it's not romantical but we have gift certificates and coupons, I know we will reminisce of our wedding day and how we ate at the McDonald's that you had to ask for a coin to open their bathroom or when I tossed my bouquet and it exploded on the chandelier at our reception center or when I had my little "meltdown" before the reception started because everyone seemed to have an opinion on everything and I was trying to get things organized!

Ever since I married Brent I became euphorically happy and it seems to grow every year. I am so happy that we chose each other to spend our lives with. I couldn't have asked for a more kind, caring, and devoted husband and I can't wait for the next 9 years!!!!!!

6 month check-up

2008-10-02T19:02:00.000-05:00

Our Grace just keeps growing and growing. We went to her 6 months doctor visit today and she is now 18 pounds and 4 oz. She is also 27 inches long!!! She checked out as a healthy baby!
She has also started getting on all fours and rocking! She'll be crawling any day now. Better child-proof the house!

UPDATE!

2008-09-29T09:09:00.000-05:00

Grace is getting teeth! She is drooling like crazy, nose is running like a race horse and is very cranky. I'll post pictures when they come in!!!

6 Random facts about me

2008-09-18T19:24:00.000-05:00

6 Random facts about me

I was tagged by my friend Christina, who lives in Federal Way, WA. to list 6 random facts about me.

Random Fact #1: I can blow a balloon up with my nose. Gross but a great party trick.

Random Fact #2: I love showing off my bruises. I think it's a tough girl thing. The bigger the better.

Random Fact #3: I had 15 mice as pets at one time. My sister bought two home from a science and then...well.. "they got it on." They were so much work for our family that we set them free in the country.

Random Fact #4: My guilty pressure is watching Sabrina, the Teenage Witch. I love that show!!! I even record it on my DVR.

Random Fact #5: I miss dancing and wish they had more adult Hip-Hop or Jazz classes. I have checked every time we move to a new city. 5 year olds shouldn't be the only ones to have fun!!!

Random Fact #6: Whenever I am with my family, including extended family, and we go to a restaurant, I always order the BIGGEST plate out of everyone. One time my ribs were so big that the plate was a platter and the people at the next table wanted to see what I got. And I am okay with that.

I am tagging...Beth, Christina (Michigan), Alynn, Kellie, Melissa, Kristin, and Bonnie.

Why I love Grace

2008-09-12T16:46:00.000-05:00

Every day since we have been blessed with Grace, I find a new reason to love her. She has done some very funny, smart and loving things and she can always surprise me. So here are some reasons I just love Grace. (Note: these are just some, not all. I don't have all century)

1. I love the way she looks at Brent when he walks through the door. Her whole face just lights up because Daddy is home.

2. I love that every time we go to the grocery store, we end up giggling through at least 5 straight aisles.

3. Regarding #2, I LOVE her laugh. She has the best laugh. I also love that I can make her laugh more then anyone else. It's a privilege that moms get.

4. She a great eater. She has never been fussy about anything we have given her. Not to mention bottles or pacifiers. She takes them all.

5. She's super friendly. She is always smiling at someone and everyone where ever we go.

6. She doesn't like to wait to be able to do things. Meaning... she wants to sit up now. She wants to eat that now. She wants to talk now.

7. She loves to touch your face. It's a very affectionate thing. She reaches out and places her hands on you cheek, nose, mouth, etc. and then kisses or slobbers you. It's so sweet.

8. She's my best friend. We do everything together and I love taking her anywhere with me. I feel like we have private jokes and I spend most of the days laughing or smiling. She become my favorite shopping partner!!

9. She is the best baby!!!! She hardly cries, laughs a lot, and just goes with the flow. We have been able to take her anywhere that most people can't take infants because she is so good.

10. She's my daughter and I get to have her forever.

Go Utes!

2008-09-03T22:10:00.000-05:00

I wish you could see this guy's head better but he shaved a "U" on it.

Utah and Michigan warming up.

Utah's mascot, Swoop.

Brent and I got to go to the Michigan - Utah game on Saturday. We sat in the Utah section and with the other fans. We had a great time and the best part was that they won! I couldn't believe how many people we saw there that we knew from Utah!
Utah games are really special to me and Brent. We had our first date to a football game and have always gone back every year. And when we were so poor as a new married couple, his mom would give us their family's season tickets to the basketball games. To this day, Andre Miller is still may favorite player.
Grace stayed home with some friends. It was the longest time I have been away from her and I did okay. But someday, she will be cheering for Utes right next to us!!!!

More FSA Pictures

2008-08-25T12:51:00.001-05:00

I love Nathan. Even with his messy face!!!

Another Grace picture!

Maddie

I just LOVE Cooper and I am so happy I got him smiling.

This is Grace and her friend, Sophie. They are always so excited to see each other!

FSA Playgroup and Brithday parties!!

2008-08-25T09:55:00.000-05:00

Zach and Jordan

Maddie, Rachel , Megan

Rachel

And of course, My sweet Grace

On Friday Grace and I went to our monthly adoption playgroup. I love going each month and seeing all of the moms and kids. It's sometimes more of a support group for the moms then a playgroup for the kids!
This month it was at our friend, Hallie's, park by her house. It was awesome because not only was it a park and right by the lake, but it was also a splash park. The kids loved it and I was so tempted to go in with them. I remembered to bring my camera this time and got some great shots of the kids.
Then Grace and I went to my friend, Christina's birthday luncheon at another friend's house. We saw her drive up and were all waiting by the front door for her. We all turned around and Christina had walked in the back door and we all just looked at her and said, "Oh! Uh..HAPPY BIRTHDAY! SURPRISE!" She loved it anyways and was actually surprised.
Grace got to play with her friend, Sophie, who is 3 months older and about 1 1/2 pounds lighter then her. We had a great day seeing friends and getting out of the house!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FRIJOLES!!!!

2008-08-20T23:48:00.000-05:00

Reeta and my mom.

Reeta helping me get ready for Prom.

She'll hate that I put this on here, but I loves this one!!!!

Reeta and Claire

The Ricks'

I just wanted to say, Happy Birthday, to my oldest sister, Reeta! I am an extremely lucky person to have a very close relationship with both of my sisters and my brother. Any childhood memory I have, includes Reeta and Beth. Especially the one where they would always be bossing me around because I was the youngest and I was always a tag-along or when they would tell me I said and bad word but they couldn't tell me what I said because it was so bad and they were going to tell Mom on me. And they could get me to do anything for them. Their motto was, "Get Summer to do it!" Good times.

Reeta has many talents and qualities that any sister would be fortunate to have. Because of her, my bangs always looked great in the '80's. I knew who The Cure, Depeche Mode, Heart, and Inxs were when I was in 4th grade. She could drive our parents Oldsmobile with 12 other teenagers in it home, after a church dance. Because of her I was introduced to my crush of '89, Corey Haim.

One of my favorite memories with her was last summer when she and my niece, Claire, came up to Seattle to help me drive all they way across the country to Michigan. Brent was already there and working at his new job. The day before we left I realized I had not packed a whole closet in our house and we had to fit that, plus 3 girls luggage, a dog and his "accessories", and one of our t.v.s in my Jeep. Let's just say Claire and Duke got very close on that trip and he got one too many french fries. Reeta is an "expert" packer and we got everything in or out smoothly.

I loved that I had Reeta on that trip and it made it go so much faster. We talk, laughed, cried and got annoyed with Claire in the back saying, " Are we there yet?" on the first day of our 4-day trip. And then the second day, and then the third.........

Reeta is an amazing cook and she and her husband, Zach, always have a vast knowledge of food, movies, books, and politics. If I don't understand something going on in this world, I can always ask Reeta and she can tell me every side's opinion. She also is scholar when it comes to the History of the English Monarchy. She just happened to start reading about it and couldn't get enough. (Me, I love Confessions of a Shopaholic series.)

She is the kindest person you'll ever meet and she will always laugh at a joke. She is the best mother and Beth and I always comment on what characteristics we would like to take from her to be better mothers ourselves. And because of my dear, sweet sister, I am alive today. She has saved my life 3 times before I had turned 6. She has taught me what families are for and to cherish what we have.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, REETA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Lovin' you!!!

Shots and 4 months!!

2008-08-13T21:53:00.001-05:00

Grace had her 4 month check up and she is now 16 lbs. 12 oz. and 25 inches long! She also had to get shots. She is such a trooper and hardly cried. She has been under the weather now because of them but that just means she wants to cuddle. And there is nothing wrong with her cuddles :) I just can't believe how much she is growing! My baby!!!!!

Peas!!!!

2008-08-04T23:29:00.000-05:00

Grace is finally old enough to have baby food. We tried her out on peas first and she liked them. She liked them so much that she insisted that she hold the spoon all by herself. She even tried to give Duke some but Daddy intervened. Tomorrow, Butternut Squash!

New car!!!

2008-08-02T19:19:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago Brent and I realized that there was a puddle of antifreeze on the passenger side floor of my Jeep. And then when we turned on the air conditioner, a mist would come out. Needless to say, our car was very unsafe.
So Brent, Grace and I went shopping and I came home with this!!!! A Toyota 4Runner! It has been my dream car since the early '90s but I thought we couldn't afford it. Well, we can. Especially when it's a 2005. I love it and to sound like a girl, so many mirrors and cup holders!!
I know Brent is happy to have his girls in a safe car but I also know he is happy to have his car, his "baby", all back to himself.

Utah Photo shoot!!!

2008-07-28T10:52:00.001-05:00

I know we have all been waiting for this but the Sneak Peak is up of Grace's pictures. So if you want to see these precious pictures then go to the Photography by Shay link on my favorite websites. I started crying when I saw these!

Gracie Update and Utah Pictures

2008-07-24T10:32:00.000-05:00

Daddy and Grace after her bath.
Grandma Dee and Grace.
Gracie and the puppies taking a nap.

Grace has decided yesterday was the day to make new developments. I have been trying to show her how to roll over but from her back. She can roll to her side but that's it. I finally decided to put her on her front and wouldn't you know it, she rolled right over!
A few hours later I was giving her her bottle and she decided to hold it! I had to help her a few times but it was great!
And then she........................slept threw the night!! 8:00 p.m. - 8:45 a.m.!!!! I did check on her in the middle of the night to make sure she was okay and I made Brent check on her when he got up. So she got sleep but we didn't.

My mother-in-law sent us pictures from our trip to Utah in June. I'm glad someone's memory card was working!!! Enjoy the cutest which is my daughter!

For my dear friend, Ali

2008-07-21T20:36:00.000-05:00

This is my friend, Ali, and her husband Jeremy with their son, Tyler, at our house for our Easter Egg Hunt this last March.

On early Saturday morning, my friend, Ali, her 3 children and her parents were driving from Washington to Salt Lake City for a family reunion. Her father fell asleep at the wheel and lost control of the van. Ali and her father were killed but her 3 children and mother only had minor injures.

Ali was such a sweet and loving person. Before we had Grace, she didn't care that I didn't have kids and still wanted to include me in things. She was a very good mother and was very fun. She always had a smile for you and made you feel like she was so excited to see you.

My heart goes out to her husband, Jeremy, and their sweet children. I know that Ali loved them with all her heart and she will miss them while she is away in Heaven. But we will miss her lovely smile and sweet face and kind spirit. Our lives are blessed to know her.

New Toy!!!

2008-07-20T15:04:00.000-05:00

We went to Babies r' Us last night to buy a chair for Grace's room. We have known for awhile that she needs more stimulation and I have been looking at Exersaucers on-line. I love Babies r' Us because you can take things down off their shelves and try them out. I wanted a gender-neutral one in case we have a boy next. But wouldn't you know it, Grace loved the girlie one and it was on Clearance!!! She is just like me!!! Love's a bargain and is prissy! She has been playing in it ever since. I guess Brent and I need to gear ourselves up for all of the toys our house will hold someday!

Texas and Cousins!

2008-07-19T20:58:00.000-05:00

Nicholas, Grace and Bryce
My cousin, Lee and her Bryce
Nicholas and Annie Jane
Corbin showing how tough he is! And yes, Nicholas is swimming in his underwear. That's just him.
Claire's room when Nicholas and Annie Jane were done with it.

Grace and I got back from Texas this last week. We were visiting my family in Austin. My dad, sister, brother, and grandparents and other family hadn't met her yet. Of course, they all fell in love with her and said that I could go home but Grace had to stay. I told them that they never let me keep Claire or Nicholas so Grace had to come with me.

I think my dad was the cutest with her. He basically walked by me with a small hello and grabbed Grace and never let her go. And she thought Grandpa was just great! She sat in his lap all through church. I had a hard time getting her back from anyone.

We had the best time and my sisters threw me the most fabulous shower. People came that I haven't seen in years or friends that live out of town or even out of the country! just happened to be in town for it.

Grace got some wonderful gifts, including a French Poodle costume, a dress made out of a vintage pillowcase (so precious!), a quilt made by the oh-so talented Sis. Murdock, and a baby book , which I am so glad because I didn't have one for her until now.

Grace was introduced to Rudy's Bar-B-Que on her second day. Well, she just went for the ride while we all had their breakfast tacos. I am not a fan of breakfast tacos but theses are gooooood!! And we frequented Sonic since we don't live near one! Love those Cherry Limeades! Needless to say I gained weight on my trip.

My cousin, Stephanie, came down with her kids and my aunt. Her daughter, Annie Jane, and Nicholas were inseparable the whole trip and where ever Nicholas went, Annie Jane had to go too. I felt so bad for my niece,Claire, because her room looked like a tornado hit it everyday after all of the kids played in it.

My other cousin, Lee came into town with her son, Bryce. I felt so luck that she drove all the way just to come to see me and Grace. And it was the first time for me to see Bryce. He looks just like his dad with a hint of his mom.

And I have the biggest news..... Corbin.....is 5'9''!!! Yes, my "Little" brother is my height. He's not even 14! We were outside about to go somewhere and these girls walked by and they were checking him out! I do have to say that I am a somewhat proud. He is a cutie. That's my brother!

I miss my family so much and I loved watching everyone with Grace. I wish we lived closer so that they could see her more. Maybe one day!

Making a memory

2008-07-15T11:45:00.000-05:00

I left a memory on Carrie's blog..so I guess I am playing the game now. Pretty fun:)

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, if it is recent or years old, silly or serious--anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.

Award!!!

2008-07-08T21:25:00.000-05:00

Brent had his graduation from Residency dinner a couple of weeks ago. He is staying on for a few more months to finish some rotations he signed up for and then we are moving on! (We still don't know where but are looking.)
Before they handed out plaques to the graduates a nurse from the surgical staff had an award to give out. It was the David Rivard Award. Basically, Dr. Rivard was a resident at St. John's and has passed away. The surgical staff, i.e. surgical nurses, scrub techs, and aids, decide who receives this award and if someone is worthy enough to even receive it every year.
While she was describing the award I was thinking about how much Brent deserves to get an award. He has worked so hard and is an honest, thorough, and very kind doctor and not to mention person. He has done he fair share of putting up with misery and degradation from others to get where he is and always seems to get passed up on things like this.
And then.... they announced his name!!!!! I started to cry a little watching the man I love finally get recognized!!!! It such a proud moment and the surgical staff came up to him afterwards to tell him how much he deserved it. I totally agree.
The picture is of Brent, the blonde, and all of his residents from this passed year. They were such a fun group and I am going to miss them when we leave.

Utah!

2008-07-06T15:16:00.000-05:00

So Grace and I went to Utah a few weeks ago but when I downloaded the pictures from my camera, only one came up. (See Grace as Shirley Temple Post. Picture was taken in my mother-in-law's kitchen.)
We went to see Brent's mom who hadn't seen her first grandchild. And of course she was everything a grandma should be when it came to the spoiling the grandchild! We barely had to bring or borrow anything because, Dee, Brent's mom had bought everything! I think she was ready for grandchildren. Even Maddie and Daisy loved her and couldn't get enough "kisses" in. Even dog kisses are welcomed.
We went to see Brent's great-aunt Marge, who is my favorite. She is the sweetest person in the whole world and she only wears skirts and nice blouses. You'll never see her in pants! She is a true lady and she always makes you feel good about yourself. We took a picture of her and Grace but... stupid memory card!
Grace and I also got to see my friends Melissa and Kristin and their kids. They are all getting so big (the kids) and it always makes me so sad that I don't live close to them. We always have so much fun and we can always pick up where we left off.

Grace as Shirley Temple

2008-06-30T12:14:00.000-05:00

Grace's room

2008-06-30T12:11:00.000-05:00

"I like Pink. Pink is my signature color!" - Julia Roberts, Steel Magnolias

Photo Shoot

2008-06-24T22:23:00.001-05:00

So there is this awesome organization called Celebrating Adoption. It's photographers who deceided to give families who are adopting a child a free photo session plus free proofs. Since I was Utah, I decided to look at the list for Utah photographers. I found one YESTERDAY! and called her and asked if she could do some pictures of Grace for us. She fit us in today and even did some of me and Grace.
I am very picky about my photographs, especially when you have Carrie Stroud of Carrie Stroud Photgraphy as one of your friends. (You can check out her blog from mine and I promise you will be floured!)
This photographer seemed to be Mrs. Stroud-worthy. I loved her website and she also has a blog. We will not get our photos developed for another 2-3 weeks but she promised a "teaser" on her blog before we get all of them. Her blog is http://photographybyshay.com/blog and I encourage anoyone who is in Utah or who will be visiting to use her! She is awsome! Grace loved her and I felt like I made a friend for the day.
I will post the pictures when we get them!!!!! Can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!

Baby shower

2008-06-16T08:52:00.000-05:00

My friends threw Grace and I am baby shower on Friday night. She got many cute things and we had so very yummy cupcakes. Grace looked so cute in her outfit! Aunt Kim got her these great bracelets and of course she HAD to wear one for her shower.

Toes!

2008-06-16T08:46:00.001-05:00

I was painting my nails so why not Graces?

Stroller

2008-06-16T08:42:00.001-05:00

We had to get a traveling stroller for Grace since we will be going on a few planes this summer. She seems to like it!

Another Tag!

2008-06-12T09:03:00.000-05:00

Subject: Re: Four things to know about each other...

Four jobs I have Had In My Life: besides my current one:

1. Clerk for the Utah Supreme Court
2. Clerk for the Iowa Supreme Court
3. Litigation Scheduler for Small, Snell, Weiss & Comfort (LOVED THAT JOB!!!)
4. Retail Clerk for World Market (Dangerous job when you want everything you sell!)

Four Places I've Lived:
1. Austin, Texas (Always #1 on my list!)

2. Shonau, Germany
3. Seattle, Washington
4. Detroit, Michigan (actually, Harrison Township)

Four Places I've Traveled to:

1. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada (with Duke)
2. Las Vegas, Nevada
3. Upstate New York and surrounding states
4. Long Beach, California

Four Of My Favorite Foods:

1. RIBS!!!!
2. Banana Pudding
3. Steak Oscar Style (Bearnaise sauce , asparagus, and crab.Yum!)
4 Chocolate

Four Places I'd Like to Visit: (only 4 ??!!??)

1. United Kingdom (includes Ireland, Wales, Scotland, etc.)
2. Greece
3. North and South Caroloina
4. Fiji

Four Movies I've watched more than once:

1. Steel Magnolias
2. The Patriot (one with Mel Gibson) Love this one!
3. 10 things I hate about you
4. Christmas Vacation (It's a staple in the Wood family)

Four T. V. shows that I watch:
1. The Office

2. Gilmore Girls
3. Wheel of Fortune

4. Adoption Stories (I cry every time!)

Four events looking forward to in the coming year ( in
no special order ):

1. Going to Utah next week and seeing my mother-in-law meet Grace for the first time
2. Going to Texas in July
3. Brent getting a job when he is done with residency and seeing where we will go
4. Our road trip to Florida!!!!!

Tagged

2008-06-05T12:17:00.000-05:00

Tagged!

I've been tagged by my sister, Beth....Here's the lowdown:
1. Who is your man? Brent
2. How long have you been together? 10 years
3. How long dated? 13 months
4. How old is your man? 31
5. Who eats more? Brent
6. Who said "I love you" first? Me
7. Who is taller? Brent
8. Who sings better? Me
9. Who is smarter? I would have to say Brent when it comes science and math. Especially MATH!
10. Whose temper is worse? Depends on the situation
11. Who does the laundry? Me
12. Who does the dishes? I do the most but I can catch Brent doing them about once or twice a week.
13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Brent
14. Who pays the bills? We both do.
15. Who has bigger feet? Brent
16. Who has longer hair? Me.
17. Who is better with the computer? Definitely Brent!!!! I feel like a moron when it comes to a computer
18. Who mows the lawn? When we had one, me but now, the maintenance guy.
19. Who cooks dinner? I do but sometimes Brent will bring something home from the hospital.
20. Who drives when you are together? Brent
21. Who pays when you go out? Depends
22. Who is most stubborn? ME!!!
23. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Brent
24. Whose parents do you see the most? I see mine the most.
25. Who kissed who first? Brent. He told me he had never wanted to kiss someone so much as he wanted to kiss me at that moment. I told him "good" and I got out of the car. Then he kissed me anyways. So romantical.
26. Who asked who out? We were set up on a blind date.
27. Who proposed? Brent
28. Who is more sensitive? It depends on the situation.
29. Who has more friends? Me. I keep in touch with everyone!
30. Who has more siblings? I do
31. Who wears the pants in the family? I would say he does but he would say I do.

Pig-Tails

2008-06-05T11:43:00.000-05:00

I put pig-tails on Grace the other day because her hair is so long. Only 2 months old and can wear pig-tails!

Moved in

2008-06-04T10:58:00.000-05:00

So we are officially moved in to our new place. It was a long move and it was raining like a monsoon outside but we got everything done. We do have some stuff that needs to go over to our storage unit so we can have more space in our apartment. But other then that, we just need to put some clothes in the closets and pictures on the walls.
Grace, Duke and I have already walked to the beach and have hung out at the pool a few times. It's so nice! I do miss our yard and just letting Duke out whenever he wants. He misses it too. But I think he likes that he can people watch.
I'll try to put up pictures when it's all done!

Memorial Day

2008-05-26T14:24:00.000-05:00

We went to our church's Pancake breakfast in the morning and of course I had to dress Grace iun a cute outfit! Then Kia and Christina and their boys came over for lunch. I turned on the sprinkler for Nicholas and Sam and they had a ball. Kia ended up getting his shorts on and running around the backyard with them.

Moving!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-25T21:20:00.001-05:00

Brent and I are so excited because we are moving this week. As you know, the house we are renting right now is in foreclosure. It will be auctioned on Friday and we will be out by Friday night. We have not exactly loved living here after the mean landlords, the nosy neighbors and the huge rent payment we seem to always be struggling to pay every month plus taking care of a pool!
We are downsizing by a bedroom, garages, and 2 extra living rooms, but...... WHO CARES! It's only for another 6 months and the apartment is oh so cute! And we are on the first floor with our apartment looking out to the parking lot which is great for moving purposes. We can just open our sliding glass door and move stuff in! And the clubhouse, OH the clubhouse! Great workout room, gorgeous pool and hot tub and a sauna. Plus Brent is only 5 minutes away from his main hospital and we are walking distance from the beach! (Yes, Michigan has a beach.) The town is a beach town on the coast of Lake Saint Claire. There are canals in people's backyards and boats everywhere. Plus Grace's room has a little window bench! So cute!!!!!
The only thing I am bummed about is that I wanted to start a garden this summer and grow tomatoes to jar so I could make my own spaghetti sauce and grow a ton of basil so I could make my pesto. I can still do some basil at our new place.
This has been such a blessing and even though I have a week of packing ahead of me.... I could care less. If you want to see our new apartment go to http://www.prentisspointeapts.com. Just pick an option how you heard about them and after you hit "submit" you can go to the main page and got to "photos" at the top.

Good Day

2008-05-24T11:35:00.000-05:00

So yesterday was such a fun day! We started out by going to our adoption playgroup, which is always so much fun because I get to see all of these fabulous moms and children that are so adorable. And it feel like a support group more then a playgroup.
Then some of the moms knew of this great farmers market that was really cheap and has really great produce. I got out of there w/ 6 bags, including flowers, for under 25 dollars! I was able to buy stuff to make a fruit salad for a dinner with some friends from our ward.
Then... we went to a movie! And Grace loved it! She kept squirming until I finnaly realized she wanted to see the screen and she watched the whole movie! It was great! I just loved that we got to spend time as a family.

Brent also took his first part of his board exams yesterday and he said it was very hard. I am sure he did well. He studied so hard for them. And, not to mention, he's REALLY smart. He takes the second part in two weeks!

Great News!!!!!

2008-05-21T16:21:00.000-05:00

I talked to our adoption agency today and we have court date!!!! June 5!!!! After that we can travel and see family and we'll know she's ours!!!!

P.S. Grace story: she is starting to laugh. So cute!!!!!

Gracie!!!!

2008-05-14T20:54:00.001-05:00

Ready to Swim!

2008-05-14T20:52:00.000-05:00

So cute!

Beth and Nicholas come to visit!

2008-05-14T16:45:00.000-05:00

My sister, Beth, and my nephew, Nicholas, came to visit! They just yesterday and I am having the hardest time without them. Nicholas was sooo adorable and kept say, "Awww! Baby Grace is so cute!" or "I want to give Baby Grace a kiss." He was so sweet with her and I loved having my sister here because my laundry and dishes were magically done! She was such a help.

We were able to go to the Detroit zoo and watched a Gorilla eat his own poo! (It was so incredibly gross considering he knew we were there.) We did A LOT of shopping because Beth does not get the normal stores in Key West. I've never seen someone so excited to go to Target or Walmart. Beth also rearranged my living room for me. It looks like it came out of a magazine! I am so glad she minored in Interior Design.

In the last picture of Nicholas, he is making this face that he kept making for me the whole week. We made it a game to see who could smile first. He kept winning. He's just too funny.

I am just hoping that we can see them in Texas in June!

Revised flipping out

2008-05-10T17:01:00.001-05:00

So I am feeling sooo much better now. I once heard that a blog is like a journal and you can put your thoughts, feelings, and pictures down. I totally feel like that about my blog. There is something therapeutic about just typing out your feeling and sending it to the world.
And when I go on this much needed vacation.... Grace is coming with me! I can't think of not having her with me with everything I do everyday. I just want a vacation from all of the drama that Brent and I are going through with our house and adoption. I'm not going to get postpartum depression but the the whole adoption process is very emotional. You are waiting constantly to see if this little person, who you have totally fallen in love with, is going to be your forever. It's so hard to just sit back and wait.

Flipping out

2008-05-08T23:18:00.000-05:00

I know that my close friends and family have been waiting for my nervous break down any day. I totally feel it coming on. So here it is....

Not only are Grace's brithmother's rights not terminated yet, giving the birthmother a chance to change her mind and making it difficult to travel so that family members can see her and , but our rental house is being foreclosed on. The court is auctioning our house at the end of the month.
We have also had a problem with our sub-pump in the basement and it is causing our water bill to increase to $1500! For those of you who know about sub-pumps, yes, they normally do not use water but run on electricity. But the owners of this house, being the idiots that they are, put in a back-up sub-pump that does, as the regular sub-pump and it has been malfunctioning since December and our bill keeps going up and since they are foreclosing they refuse to do anything about it.
We are requesting to get out of our lease and we might have to go to court over this. I am thankful that we have a property management company that we have to deal with and they are trying everything they can not to have us go to court. Meaning... they are trying to let the owners know that they just need to let us out of the lease.
Grace wasn't falling asleep tonight and I finally told Brent, "Your turn." This is something I never do because of his job but I had to send an email to the Property Management company regarding this whole hoopla. Then he gave me crap about taking her and was wondering why I didn't send the email sooner! Well, let's see, I didn't find out about having to send an email until 4:30 p.m. today and then we got home at almost 7:00 and then I had to make dinner, clean-up, change Grace, feed Grace, wash out bottles so she can have some in the middle of the night, try to clip her nails so she'll stop scratching her face and try to get her to sleep. It's 12:35 a.m. and I just got done with it!
Yes, I am flipping out and I don't even feel like I have a chance to breathe! Maybe I need a vacation. Or just a massage. A massage would be nice. I need to go to my happy place now.

More Grace Pictures

2008-04-28T16:25:00.000-05:00

After MANY request for more Grace pictures, here they are! She is wearing my favorite outfit on her that my mother-in-law, Grandma Dee, bought her. It's so cute!!!

Haircut

2008-04-26T10:16:00.000-05:00

I got my haircut, finally!, on Thursday. It was so nice to feel like a woman again and not "frumpy mom". I had Brent take pictures of it and the whole time he was making me laugh. I think I am married to the funniest guy.
P.S. Notice the spit-up on my shirt. I'm officially a mom!

Overalls

2008-04-21T07:07:00.000-05:00

I bought Grace some overalls and I put her in them the other day. Brent thought she looked so cute that he had to take pictures. There is a theme here with our posts. "We think our kid is cute."

Missing

2008-04-19T09:12:00.000-05:00

I have been missing my family lately. Especially my cousin, Stephanie. She and I are favorite cousins. She was my maid-of-honor and I was her matron-of-honor. I went and helped her when her 2nd child, Josh, was born and I had a blast with her and her little family.
She and her husband, Leonard, live in the country and you have to open a gate and drive down a dirt road to their house. And the town they live in is small but has so much character. There is always something for us to do when I go and so many great places to shop and eat like there is a little cafe that all of the locals go too and the food is awesome and everyone knows everyone when they walk in. It is the epitome of a small town in Texas.
Stephanie and I talk almost every day and I love the fact that outside of my sisters, I am so close to someone that I grew up with. I feel so lucky to have her in my life.

Family Photo shoot

2008-04-10T20:17:00.000-05:00

Since my mom is here, we decided to take pictures of Grace with her and some of Brent and I with our new little sweetie. Have I mention she's soooooo cute!!! I love having a girl, by the way. She has started to hold her head up by herself and she is eating 3-4 oz!!! Maybe next week she''ll start sleeping through the night and in 2 weeks change her own diapers! (I can wish)
She is growing so fast and is starting to look like a little girl instead of a baby. And she is only 12 days old! She is so sweet and is wanting to talk to us when we sing or talk to her. I love being a mom!

Bathtime!

2008-04-04T13:51:00.000-05:00

Gracie had her first bath yesterday! She DID NOT like it! My mom is here and it's been great. Enjoy some pictures!

Grace Michelle Wood

2008-04-02T07:37:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday night, 1:45 a.m., Brent realized that his phone was off all day and decided to check his messages. There was one from the LDS social worker saying they had a little girl for us. I told Brent to had me his phone and he thought I was crazy for calling her back at that time of night.

"She said to call any time!", I said.

She told us a little girl had been born. She weighed 7lbs. 5 oz. Of course Brent and I couldn't fall asleep now! I finally fell asleep at 6:00 a.m. and woke up at 9:30. I started making calls and in about 2 hours I had one friend over with a TON of baby things, a mother-in-law crying but shopping on the internet, and a sister who wouldn't stop calling.
We finally got to meet our little girl yesterday afternoon and I just cried, of course, when they put her in my arms. She loves when Brent holds her and just calms right down. We made it through the night and she already loves pacifiers. She's a good little eater and hardly cries (only when she hungry.)
We feel so blessed at this moment and are soooo happy to finally be parents! And before I turn 30!

Cute Husband

2008-03-28T23:11:00.000-05:00

So tonight we watched Nicholas and Sam. If you don't know who these boys are by now, you haven't been reading my blog. I was making dinner and they were running around my house screaming chasing each other, surprise, they are children. Brent walked in the door looking very tired from a long week at work.
In five minutes he was chasing them around the house and would catch them and tickle them. They loved it! This is kind of new because Brent is always so tired when he comes home from work and sometimes when children are involved he hides upstairs.
As I was preparing dinner, I watched Brent's face light up when he'd say, "I'm going to get you! You better run!", and then proceed to run around in circles with Duke following behind him.
It brought tears to my eyes knowing that my husband will make the best dad in the world. Whether he's tired or not, the kids will come first. He loves Nicholas and Sam and loves it when he comes home to more then just me and Duke.
We had dinner and he acted just like a dad telling them to finish their meal or we couldn't watch a movie. He helped me clean up the dishes and wiped the table and then cuddled with the boys on the couch while we watched Bee Movie. Even though they aren't our children to have, we felt like for one moment what it would be like to be a family.
I am so excited to see my cute husband be a father.

More Easter pictures

2008-03-24T13:05:00.001-05:00

P.S. Duke had the best time too. He couldn't believe that all the kids wanted to go outside with him!

EASTER!!!!

2008-03-24T12:25:00.000-05:00

So we had the best Easter! Friday we went to our friend's, Shauna's house for the egg dying. Then on Saturday everyone came over to our house for the egg hunt and dinner. I sent the kids upstairs to watch "Enchanted" on my bed while the dads were downstairs hiding eggs.
The hunt was so much fun and the kids loved it!!!!!!!!!! I made a ham and my great aunt's noodles (which are always a huge hit.) My friend, Shauna, made the best rolls and church or funeral potatoes!!! And my friend, Christina, made the BEST lemon cupcakes. I'm not a huge fan of lemon but these were fabulous!!!! And they looked like something Martha Stewart would make. They were so pretty that I took a picture of them and a picture of Shauna eating one. She looked like she was enjoying them too much.
Everyone had so much fun that the last guest didn't leave until 10:00 p.m. and they came over at 4:00 p.m. I just love that!!! Fun at Wood's!!! Happy Easter!!

I don't feel so good!

2008-03-17T18:53:00.000-05:00

I got the best treat today. Brent was soooo sick that they sent him home from work today. I am sorry he is sick but I loved having him around the house and for all those who are resident wives, you know how little time you have with your husband. So I went to the store and bought him soup, Sprite, and salty chips. Then I went to Blockbuster and got him movies. I came home and we watched all of his favorite shows (Love the DVR!). So after the care of Nurse Summer, I am glad to say he is feeling better and is nesting at the moment. He keeps straighting all the rooms.

Snow!

2008-03-06T17:22:00.000-06:00

So I have the cutest friend here in Michigan and she has the cutest boys. (See Sledding post) Yesterday they came over and played in my back yard and my cute friend, Christina made her boys a snow hill on our steps to our pool. Nicholas and Sam had the best time and I finally got out there and took some pictures. (I was also watching my friends baby and she was sleeping.) Christina and I have been talking about how much we wish the snow would melt but it was fun to get outside for once instead of going to the store. But I am ready for Summer!

Spa day

2008-03-05T19:51:00.000-06:00

I think this should be a national holiday. Where all the women have to go to a spa and they get a huge discount because it's "Spa Day"! I think the world would be a better place and at least half of us will feel calmer and more relaxed and be prepared to take on the world. Plus I love the facials and the massages and one time I got the best pedicure of my life at a spa. Just thinking about it makes me want to paint my toes.

So to all of those stressed out women out there, HAPPY SPA DAY!!!!

Pictures!

2008-03-02T16:12:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures from our California trip. The first one is of Brent and his poster that he presented. There is one of Brent outside of the Bubba Gump restaurant and the other are of us at Disneyland with Mary and Jared! The one of my caboose is to show how wet I got on the Splash Mountain ride. All the way down to my knees! So cold!

California, here we come.........

2008-02-26T06:38:00.000-06:00

Brent had a conference in Long Beach, Ca last week and I got to go with him. We got to see our really good friends, Mary and Jared Clifford and a bunch of others from Medical School. I had lunch with my good friend, Jannifer and her husband, Jeremy, who I haven't seen since before we left Utah. I was so glad to see her and it was so much fun catching up! I even got a little teary-eyed when I told her good-bye.
On Thursday night Brent and I went to Bubba-Gumps restaurant and LOVED it!!! If you ever find one, GO! Then on Friday we had his school reception and it was nice to see old friends.
Saturday was the funnest day of all because we got to go to Disneyland with Mary and Jared. It was extra fun because Mary had taken a few backstage tours at Disney and knew a lot of the history. The only bad thing was that it was clod and rainy all day and I had to buy new pants since my were soaked on Splash Mountain and refused to dry after 4 hours. Little cold. But I loved the Peter Pan ride!!! It's always my favorite.
Pictures will be coming soon.

She-Devil

2008-02-14T12:45:00.000-06:00

Last night Brent had to go to a business dinner at a really nice restaurant. He got very dressed up and even wore cologne! He was looking really hot for a husband just to go to this dinner.
I stayed home and watched a movie called She-Devil. It's about this tired and very unattractive housewife played by Rosanne Barr who's husband leaves her for a very thin and beautiful woman. She does gets even with him in the end.
After watching this, I just happened to look down at myself. I was wearing my bleached-stained lounge pants, my hair was in a pony-tail but going every which way, I had no bra on and make-up under my eyes. My house was in bad shape too with dishes still in the sink from Monday, shoes everywhere, laundry in piles and the floor desperately needing to be vacuumed.
Brent walked in looking completely fabulous and I was Rosanne Barr.

P.S. He did bring me home some of his steak. :)

Sledding!!!

2008-02-11T17:26:00.000-06:00

On Saturday we went sledding with our friends Kia and Christina and their boys Nicholas and Sam. We had so much fun even though it was FREEZING!

Drivers Ed

2008-02-07T18:34:00.000-06:00

It has been snowing here. So bad that the snow plows have not been able to keep up. I was driving to a job this afternoon and I was getting off the freeway onto the off ramp when......I found myself in a ditch. There was a wreck and everyone was trying to avoid hitting it and I tried to avoid the cars swerving out of control trying to avoid the wreck. So the ditch was my best bet.
I had to call Brent and tell him, "Guess what your wife did this time." He was so sweet and since I have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, he tried to talk me through how to get out. I ended up creating a huge mess with snow and a lot of mud and got a lot of looks and laughs from the cars driving by. I tried to take a picture of my tracks but after having to call, Brent, 911, the person at the job I was going to, and the tow truck, my battery was very low.
So after much embarrassment and humiliation, the police had a special tow truck pull me out and it cost me $125. Something we soooo don't have at this time. I drove 30 mph home the whole way even though the speed limit was 50 and I haven't left since. I need chocolate.

My Family!

2008-02-04T12:53:00.000-06:00

I just got back from Texas last week. I went for my Grandpa's 80th birthday and it was so nice to have everyone in the same house. All of us have not been together since 1992! Since then, people have gotten married, another grandchild has been born, and great-grandchildren have been added to this family.
I got to be the photographer for the event. So stressful!!! Trying to get 27 people to listen to you takes a lot of work. But I just love hanging out with my family!

I have to get something off my chest....

2008-02-01T22:34:00.000-06:00

I hate being an adult! There, I said it. I am so sick and tired of bills, cars breaking, replacing fixtures in my home, taxes, laundry, dishes, etc..... What happened to the days where I use to take my own money and got to the mall and buy whatever I wanted or when I could go on a road trip on a whim and actually spend money and not have to answer to a bank when I was done?

But, I would not trade it for anything in the world so I could be able to ride on this roller coaster of life with my husband. I wouldn't trade going back out in the dating world and worrying if, "He'll call me", or "Should I let him know how much I like him?" My husband knows! And if he doesn't call me, I'll see him when he gets home. Besides, why would he call me when I probably would only talk to him about bills, the car breaking, replacing fixtures in our home or taxes?

I guess being an adult isn't that bad. And I get to have, "The Big S". If you know me well, you know I had to say something about that.