tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89497574710699639952024-03-12T21:32:08.692-06:00In Her Own Words"mommy blog", mormon, infertility, photography, "infertility blog", "mormon mommy blog", "mommy vlog", utah photographer", "thrift store blog", adoption, lipsense, LipSense, "smudgeproof", "smudge proof lips", "fashion blog", fashion, yoga, "yoga routine", "yoga practice", "yoga every damn day", "yoga pose", "yoga poses"Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.comBlogger163125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-74342715788721823872014-04-09T15:27:00.001-06:002014-04-09T15:27:15.625-06:00During a car ride to the park the other day: <br />
<br />
Grey: "Mom, Dad said if we buy a chimp, we have to get rid of a brother."<br />
Me: "Oh yeah? Well that would be a hard decision."<br />
Grey: "I already made it."<br />
Me: "What did you decide?"<br />
Grey: "I'd trade in Charlie."<br />
Me: "Charlie? Why Charlie?"<br />
Grey: "Because he's too messy."<br />
Me: "I think a chimp would be messier."<br />
Grey: "No way, mom. Chimps are smarter than babies. Plus Charlie's happy about it. See? He's smiling."<br />
Me: "I don't think he knows what you're talking about."<br />
Charlie: "Chimp, Mom."<br />
Me: Too busy laughing to reply. <br />
<br />
Minutes later I looked into my rear-view window and noticed Grey cuddling close to Charlie's car seat, holding his hand.<br />
<br />
Me: "That is so cute that you're holding hands. See you could never trade Charlie in for a chimp. You love him too much."<br />
Grey with a roll of the eyes: "Just don't tell anyone, Mom." <br />
<br />
(He won't read this until he's way older and forgot I promised him I wouldn't tell anyone. :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-17073068351146896562013-02-19T12:03:00.000-07:002013-02-19T13:36:36.079-07:00Trust YourselfWhat happens when you find yourself in a situation you've never met and you don't know how to cope?<br />
<br />
In my experience, I seek my husband, my mom, my sisters, my dad and God. Almost anyone but myself. I've realized, in my 29 years, all the life experience I have, I've shelved. I've taught myself that things I've learned, I must not understand as well as another. The impressions I have are brushed aside as desires and mere thoughts, not inspiration.<br />
<br />
For example, as a mother, I worry about ruining my kids'
lives when I make parenting mistakes. Mothering is bundled with guilt, worry, inadequacy, self doubt and a million other detrimental emotions, which at times, seem to highlight my shortcomings. Sound familiar?<br />
<br />
I find myself constantly seeking advice and approval.
Logically, who knows my children better than I do? No one. Who knows
myself better than me? No one, save God. Therefore, advice from others should be
secondary and should not trump my own impressions. <br />
<br />
Constantly seeking advice from others can become a slippery slope. Slowly we begin to lose our agency and lose the gifts God purposefully gave us. Eventually we give up our birthright which is to, "Reach the measure of your existence," according to psychologist, <a href="http://www.ldsshrink.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Rick</a>. <br />
<br />
The impressions we realize within ourselves can become our most important resources for not only peace and self-worth, but in almost every aspect of our lives, spiritually and temporally. When we begin to practice our agency with confidence we understand better who we are and who we were always meant to become. We will begin to sharpen our most important instincts and realize the answers to most of our questions have always been inside us, "between your right ear and your left," according to Dr. Rick.<br />
<br />
Relying too much upon the counsel of others, even those more experienced and in positions of authority, can be detrimental to our personal progress. I am learning I am my biggest ally, but my worst critic and am capable of much more than I give myself credit. I was born with sharp instincts which have dulled over time because I have failed to use them. <br />
<br />
I am working toward trusting myself and listening more closely to my impressions. <br />
Nothing worthwhile can be attained forthwith. Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-68949500517294194152013-02-11T15:04:00.002-07:002013-02-13T11:45:31.647-07:00Sanity? Who Needs It<br />
My days are measured in naps, none of which are mine.<br />
<br />
The last six months have been - oh what's the word - a blur, crazy, foggy, hilarious, loud, almost as if I'm living someone's idea of a good joke, exhausting, messy... <br />
<br />
Having two babies under one year old, but not quite twins, unless you're Irish, makes it hard to do anything else but keep babies alive. That's right. That pretty much sums it up. <br />
# "Irish Twins"are siblings born 11 months apart, for those of you who are in a constant state of fog too<br />
<br />
<br />
When The Hubs gets home and it appears I've done nothing all day because I haven't showered or gotten dressed, the house is a complete disaster, the kids are running around in diapers or the pajamas in which they slept the night before, dinner is sitting out as a half thawed ball of hamburger due to a single moment of clarity with aspirations to cook it later, I lie sprawled out on the couch covered in spit up, baby toys and Bug's half eaten snack with a small tick of my eye, I developed soon after Baby Boo was born he asks, "What did you do today?" Poor soul. Heaven help him. I yell, "I kept your kids ALIVE today! You're welcome!"<br />
<br />
He's learned since then it's better not to ask questions, but instead, mention how beautiful I look. That greasy hair and sweats have always been his "thing" and he's always secretly hoped his house was messy because he doesn't have to open drawers to find things or go upstairs to get socks. How convenient! And clothes and children have never been synonmous. They are born naked, for Heaven sakes! Why should we change what God intended? And dinner? Nah! He's usually in the mood for cereal when he gets home from work.<br />
<br />
<br />
That's better, The Hubs. You can live now.<br />
<br />
So many of my hobbies/everything that doesn't include surviving, has taken a back seat while I have been raising/keeping my kids alive the last six months. But, it's probably time to start documenting my adventures. It's cheap therapy for me and who knows, maybe some comedic relief for you.<br />
<br />
Cheers!Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-86019231848277558762012-07-29T14:42:00.000-06:002012-08-04T18:34:15.932-06:00Bug, Boo and BubblegumTwo whole weeks after Bubblegum (Boo named him) was born and he has survived his brothers' pokes, pinches and squeezes. How babies survive with older siblings, I'll never know.<br />
<br />
"Love is supposed to feel good," my mom would say to my older sister when she would hug me so tightly I would cry. Now I find myself saying the same thing to my two kids.<br />
<br />
Little Bug is relentless and doesn't respond to words of discipline. I simply have to distract him with a shiny object and it's, "baby who?" Boo just responds with a half smile after a few cheap shots, "But I LOVE him Mommy! He's just so cute!"<br />
<br />
Now, I completely understand the urge to squeeze Bubblegum so hard he pops. But I am an adult. Instead I smother is face with kisses and let him suck on my cheek while he's hooting for a breast. It's tricky I know, and in some cultures I am no better than my 4-year-old, but throw me a bone! I LOVE him, he is just so cute!<br />
<br />
Bubblegum was born late on July 14 to an exhausted, but proud mommy. After one big and painful push, he was out and laying on my chest, his confused limbs involuntarily flailing. "We did it!" I told him over and over again. With no epidural I had to visualize him working as hard as I was. If I gave up, he would have been left to do it alone. That is what kept me going, because it was HARD! During my final and most painful contraction The Hubs looked into my eyes and held my gaze. He gave me the strength I needed to finish. He said he felt helpless and all he could do was send as much positive energy my way as he could. It worked.<br />
<br />
I don't remember Boo's labor being quite so hard, but I think we forget. Otherwise we wouldn't keep having kids! <br />
<br />
While in a state of euphoria, I was unaware that after the nurses took my baby to swaddle him, he stopped breathing. It was only after a team of NICU nurses rushed into the room bearing medical equipment I understood what was happening. After three long minutes my tiny baby went from a dark grey to pink and started breathing again. I was grateful for my ignorance for two out of three of those minutes. <br />
<br />
Again they placed him in my arms and he began nursing as if he had been doing it forever. It always amazes me how instinctual babies are.<br />
<br />
We were bonded for life. <br />
<br />
So now, here I am with three crazy boys whom I adore. A little frightened, I approach my chaotic life with a smile and a sense of humor and an understanding that everything else in my life will be put on hold. Because what else matters, really?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/7713722248/" title="DSC_9904 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_9904" height="425" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7264/7713722248_1fa222fff1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />
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<br />Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-86724299048749183152012-05-08T09:31:00.000-06:002012-05-08T09:35:30.065-06:00Boo: "Mom, did you know back in the '90's castles and dragons and knights were really alive!?"<br />
<br />
-------------<br />
<br />
Boo: "Mom, when you get baptized all your senses get washed away."<br />
Me: "Oh really? I think you mean sins, right?"<br />
Boo: "No Mom, SENSES. My primary teacher TOLD me."Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-37156906358062166602012-04-16T10:37:00.004-06:002012-04-16T11:06:49.910-06:00Prunes and Black beans. Who knew?<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/7084377965/" title="DSC_8645 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5454/7084377965_b4d30d38fd_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8645" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/7084432761/" title="DSC_8631 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7185/7084432761_53013490c6_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8631" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/7084431903/" title="DSC_8632 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7182/7084431903_a020ca8a6f_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8632" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br />He is so goofy! He has me constantly laughing. He has a way about him that makes you remember to enjoy life. This picture is so him! He completes me.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/7084430365/" title="DSC_8627 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7192/7084430365_1d992e92eb_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8627" height="640" width="476" /></a><br /><br />He does this when I say, "So big!" Oooo, is it just me, or do you want to just suck on those cheeks!? With or without prunes. They're so suckable!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6938355380/" title="DSC_8640 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6938355380_aa0b3b3715_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8640" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br />I just want to eat him up!!Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-55331124932364115432012-02-12T21:02:00.003-07:002012-02-12T21:06:11.355-07:00Special Indeed.Boo to Bug: "You are my special present."<br />Boo: "Mom, he is such a special present to me. I never thought I'd get such a special present as a baby!"<br />Looking back at Bug, speaking in a babyish tone: "You're just my special little baby present."Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-59606312628256226192012-02-11T12:39:00.000-07:002012-02-11T12:42:56.257-07:00Mornings...<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6858108647/" title="DSC_8127-copy by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7063/6858108647_5c12fa8a45_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8127-copy" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6858109869/" title="DSC_8129-copy by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7200/6858109869_ea14f4e215_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8129-copy" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6858111467/" title="DSC_8140-copy by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7189/6858111467_5e716bd99b_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8140-copy" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6858108085/" title="DSC_8122-copy by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7069/6858108085_b690041794_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8122-copy" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6858107493/" title="DSC_8112 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7046/6858107493_780cff6174_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8112" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6858106977/" title="DSC_8119 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/6858106977_b8a968537c_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8119" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6858110373/" title="DSC_8148-copy by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7185/6858110373_c9dc8b7ca3_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8148-copy" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6858106435/" title="DSC_8150-copy by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7191/6858106435_8d55101133_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8150-copy" height="425" width="640" /></a>Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-58774435821816501632012-01-27T12:44:00.005-07:002012-01-27T12:58:10.795-07:00"What WILL we eat in Heaven?"<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span>While eating lunch yesterday with Boo...<br /><br />Boo: "Mom, what will we eat in Heaven?"<br />Me: "I'm not sure. That's a good question."<br />Boo: "Hmmm... Maybe chicken."<br />Me: "That sounds like a good guess."<br />Boo: "Yeah- I think only God and Jesus know. Right, Mom?"<br />Me: "I think so."<br />Boo: "Mom! I need to go say a prayer!"<br />(Kneeling together by the couch:)<br />Boo: "Dear God and Jesus, what will we eat in Heaven? I love you God and Jesus. I love this world, better than the whole wide world!<br />Amen."<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span>Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-30362139278546803262012-01-27T12:35:00.004-07:002012-01-27T12:57:16.460-07:00Grandpa and Boo converse (Grandpa's account)Boo: "What happened, Grandpa?" While pointing at a scab on his arm.<br />Grandpa: "That's a spider bite."<br />Boo: "Ouch. My mom can fix it, she's a doctor."<br />Grandpa: "She is?"<br />Boo: "Well, no. But she's kind of like a doctor. She's <span style="font-style: italic;">amazing</span>!"<br />Grandpa: "Well, I'll have to let her take a look then."<br />Boo: "Yeah, she always makes me feel better."<br /><br />Those are the reasons I wake up in the morning. :)Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-14346067964888450462012-01-17T16:27:00.007-07:002012-01-17T17:04:20.790-07:00Bug's first meat-eating...attemptI fed him pork. Ground up pork that smelled like cat food. YUM! I was shocked when it made him gag.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6717099277/" title="DSC_8070 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7016/6717099277_df16468364_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8070" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6717102973/" title="DSC_8067 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6717102973_2726f3c5cb_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8067" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br />Bug: "Are you <span style="font-style: italic;">kidding</span> me!?"<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6717100483/" title="DSC_8062 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7021/6717100483_137ae8efcd_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8062" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br />After I laughed at his reaction...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6717104783/" title="DSC_8065 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6717104783_c0674879cd_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8065" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6717101743/" title="DSC_8063 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6717101743_4a0e0c03ec_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8063" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br />Eating his bib so I won't put more in his mouth.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6717104259/" title="DSC_8066 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6717104259_0c3d8fb3ba_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8066" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br />The look that says, "Not a chance."<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6717105873/" title="DSC_8068 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7010/6717105873_0a1b804b89_z.jpg" alt="DSC_8068" height="640" width="425" /></a>Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-70143195915064100892011-12-22T10:29:00.004-07:002011-12-22T11:09:37.507-07:00Fiercely a mamma's boyOur conversation during dinner last night at Grandma's:<br /><br />Boo: "Mom, come sit by me!"<br />Me: "OK."<br />Brock from across the kitchen sitting by himself, "Grey are you my buddy?"<br />Boo: "I'm Mommy's buddy."<br />Brock: "Grey, are you my homeboy?"<br />Boo: (No answer.)<br />Brock: "Grey, are you my buddy or what?"<br />Boo: "Dad! I'm your buddy that says, 'stop asking me questions so I can eat!'"Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-5268053028071978402011-10-02T13:09:00.010-06:002011-10-02T21:45:14.742-06:00My babinski<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6204399725/" title="Untitled-1 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6151/6204399725_b6aa53d4b8_z.jpg" width="640" height="581" alt="Untitled-1"></a><br /><br />A few things I've learned over the past two months about my happy little guy:<br /><br />He loves being kissed, touched and loved on. Whenever I kiss him or caress my face on his, he smiles.<br /><br />He is very expressive and will look right into my eyes when he's "telling" me something, be it crying, cooing or opening his mouth as wide as possible wanting to eat.<br /><br />Has about a million different expressions all of which melt my heart.<br /><br />When I rub the back of his little neck he burps 99 percent of the time. It's genius.<br /><br />He is a cuddle bug.<br /><br />He loves to be swaddled as tightly as humanly possible.<br /><br />If he's not swaddled his hands will involuntarily rise above his head making him feel like he's flying.<br /><br />He does not like to feel like he's flying.<br /><br />He likes to watch Boo play.<br /><br />Is soothed by the sound of running water.<br /><br />Likes medicine a great deal. So much so that when put in his mouth he laughs so hard he can't suck it off the teaspoon.<br /><br />He understands jokes and will laugh when you tell one in his presence or tease him.<br /><br />Has the goofiest smile and laugh that makes me love him so much I can't stand it!<br /><br />Is the sweetest guy, just like his big brother.<br /><br />Hates riding in the car.<br /><br />Loves his swing.<br /><br />He loves his milk. Sometimes his bottle makes him laugh too.<br /><br />Stops crying to the sound of his mommy's voice.<br /><br />Bug had his 2-month doctor's appointment yesterday and is apparently a very big boy. I knew this already due to the way people tend to look at me when I tell them he's only 2 months. They look at him for awhile in a confused state, back to me and then back to him, always ending with, "Big boy!"<br /><br />The doctor, however, gave me concrete evidence that I am indeed raising a "big boy."<br /><br />He weighs 13 lbs. 8 oz., putting him in the 86 percentile for weight.<br />He is 24 1/4 inches tall, putting him in the 89 percentile for height.<br /><br />I LOVE my big baby boy!!Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-22766048775010457502011-09-30T22:52:00.000-06:002011-10-01T10:59:21.812-06:00Date nightYesterday morning while laying in bed with my boys feeding the babe, Boo looked over and said most sincerely and kindly while displaying the only jealousy of his baby brother since we brought him home, "Mom, you always spend time with the baby. You should spend time with me. Can you go on a date with me tonight?"<br /><br />I felt terrible. He has been so patient and sweet about his brother, never complaining, instead cooing over this new thing that was taking up all his attention. So maybe I <span style="font-style: italic;">wasn't</span> doing a good enough job making time for him....I was also so proud of him for expressing his feelings in such a grown up way instead of through bad behavior.<br /><br />So, that night we had ice cream for dinner. Ice cream topped with candy bars, gummy bears, chocolate chips, cheese cake bites and a bunch of other junk sure to give a little boy a tummy ache. We had a blast.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6199386267/" title="collage by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6023/6199386267_5e50d99bfd_z.jpg" alt="collage" height="640" width="419" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6199898478/" title="360 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6153/6199898478_cf54e49011_z.jpg" alt="360" height="640" width="457" /></a><br /><br />p.s. Ice cream for dinner automatically makes you the coolest mom ever.Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-31402637517594818852011-09-26T09:24:00.002-06:002011-09-26T13:10:17.597-06:00While doing yard work last night, Boo found a new pet. He kissed it, named it after himself, made a home for it in a jar complete with three leaves, a stick and a grape and loved it to death for 24 hours. Literally.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6185690820/" title="356 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6166/6185690820_cddcdf051e_z.jpg" alt="356" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6185168769/" title="358 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6180/6185168769_23aa7803ee_z.jpg" alt="358" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6185168437/" title="357 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6156/6185168437_bbaee89767_z.jpg" alt="357" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6185169221/" title="354 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6165/6185169221_0b556713bd_z.jpg" alt="354" height="425" width="640" /></a>Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-41159941276127837502011-08-28T13:07:00.008-06:002011-08-30T18:29:20.488-06:00Our new BugOne month ago today Bug was born. Time flies when you're in love.
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<br />July 28 we received a phone call that his birth mother was in labor. Two days later he was placed in my arms by a miracle from God and the selfless love of a mother. The weepy words, "I am giving you my baby because I love him more than myself," as she lay him in my arms, through what I can only imagine was the strength from God, will resonate in my mind forever. She reminded me of what it means to be a mother. It means breaking your own heart for the well-being of your child. I will never be able to make as significant of a sacrifice as she did for my children, but I will try every day to be the mother I need and want to be to justify her sacrifice.
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<br />Another miracle: he was mine the <span style="font-style:italic;">moment</span> he was placed in my arms. Most people spend nine months with their babies during pregnancy and then revel in those special first days with them in the hospital. I worried I would miss out on important bonding moments.
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<br />It turns out when a baby is supposed to be yours whether it grew inside of you or not, you know. Through the mercy of God, I knew. All the missed moments with him disappeared and it was like I had known him forever.
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<br />I don't mean to make this into a religious post or to preach about my views, but I do believe the events leading up to receiving my child were orchestrated by a higher power. A God who knew this baby belonged in our family and allowed me to feel something in order to move me in his direction and him in mine. He found me and I found him. That in-and-of-itself is a miracle.
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<br />Boo grew in my belly, but this little guy grew in my heart.
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6090238938/" title="collage by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6203/6090238938_245f20fa40_z.jpg" alt="collage" height="427" width="640" /></a>
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<br />Boo is so happy to finally have his brother.
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/6089621599/" title="DSC_52512nd by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6192/6089621599_7915331d91_z.jpg" width="640" height="501" alt="DSC_52512nd"></a>Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-50777743721128344802011-07-23T10:23:00.002-06:002011-07-23T10:25:34.719-06:00Boo's bedtime prayer...Dear Heavenly Father,<br /><br />Thank you for my baby. I love it and I miss it.<br />I promise to make him happy and keep him warm.<br /><br />Amen.Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-2672716662672480652011-06-19T22:57:00.007-06:002011-06-22T23:27:45.605-06:00Three words: Brazilian Butt LiftPlastic surgery? No. Painful beyond belief? Absolutely. I have been doing this workout for about three weeks now and every second is pure Latino torture. I <span style="font-style: italic;">wish</span> it was plastic surgery.<br /><br />I stepped onto a scale at my mom's house yesterday (I don't own scales because I believe they're reserved only for masochists) because the "model body" I was promised doesn't quite seem to be materializing. As I looked down at the scale the little hand settled on a very disappointing number. A number higher than I beleived it to be before I began my excruciating butt lift. Yes, muscle weighs more than fat, but really? Higher?<br /><br />Between you and me, The Hubs did say and I quote, "Grabbing your butt is a whole new experience." Mmkay. So that should be motivation enough, right? Wrong. I want to SEE results. I need instant gratification people! After a workout that makes me wish I was dead, I had better look like the girl on the front of the cover! Is that too much to ask?<br /><br />Honestly, some of the workouts are actually kind of fun. It's a mixture of Zumba and your worst nightmare, if your nightmares consist of squats and lunges, which mine now do.<br /><br />But I will "keep pushing play" as Leandro instructs me to do and I will let you know how it goes. At least if I die between a lunge and a squat, it will be a pleasant experience for the paramedic or doctor who for any reason may have to grab my butt.Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-68678331265314034952011-06-13T20:51:00.003-06:002011-06-13T21:21:47.431-06:00Our conversation on the way home from getting ice cream just now...Boo: "Whoever talks first loses!"<br /><br />The Hubs and me: stunned it was his idea and quite pleased, "Deal!"<br /><br />Boo: Quiet for a surprising amount of time and for a moment I can hear my own thoughts.<br /><br />Boo: Breaks the silence with giggles.<br /><br />The third time around Boo: "Ready? Go!...I'm not gonna talk this time, Mom. I'm gonna win."<br /><br />Me: I look at him curiously with a smirk and reading my expression Boo said, "Mom! I'm really not gonna talk, Mom!"<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Several minutes later </span>...<br /><br />Boo: "You guys want to hear a joke?"<br /><br />The Hubs: "I'd love to hear a joke."<br /><br />Boo: "There was a monster and a human bush. Hahaha! - Was that a joke, Daddy?"<br /><br />The Hubs, laughing, "I'm not real sure, but it was funny."<br /><br />Boo: "You tell a joke, Daddy."<br /><br />The Hubs, following Boo's lead said something random.<br /><br />Boo: "That wasn't a joke, Dad."<br /><br />The Hubs. "Oh."<br /><br /><br />We're a highly intellectual family who has deep, meaningful conversations. I hope this didn't go over anyone's head.Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-82700182635171858792011-06-08T15:21:00.006-06:002011-06-08T20:32:25.926-06:00Crazy Salt Lake Guy. DeJa Vu?I know this is old news, but the Hubs and I watch the Bachelor a day later than the rest of America because our Boo isn't in bed before it starts. Call me old-fashioned, but I just don't think it's appropriate television for a 3-year-old.<br /><br />While watching the Bachelor on Hulu last night I was so disgusted by crazy Salt Lake Guy I almost had to gouge my eyes out. I kept looking at The Hubs wide-eyed thinking, "Did he really just say that?! Why? WHY!? (Yes you heard me correctly, The Hubs watches Bachelor with me. Don't tell anyone K because it's kind of a secret. wink.) <br /><br />Why in the world must all reality TV people who represent Utah be sociopaths? Strong word? Watch the last episode of The Bachelorette. Trust me, not so strong. <br /><br />Excuse me, did Ashley just say <span style="font-style:italic;">Michelle Money</span> (Crazy Salt Lake Chick) gave her the clue about Crazy Salt Lake Guy? What the? Is there a small clump of beautiful yet horrible human beings in Salt Lake City who are all connected!?<br /><br />Boo and I have been talking about Stranger Danger. We have watched the movie "Safe Side Cool Chick" about a zillion times, which I highly recommend, by the way. It's done by John Walsh and they do a great job. Anyway, it teaches kids that if a "Don't Know" (stranger) tries to talk to them and ask them questions while his mom or dad isn't around to yell, "This isn't my mom!"<br /><br />While quizzing Boo I asked him what he should do in such a situation and he yelled, "Bad human here!" Well that oughta' do. Brutal? Yes. Gets the point across? I think so.<br /><br />While watching Crazy Salt Lake Guy I just kept wanting to yell, "Bad human here!" It seemed totally fitting.Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-35079291234073880222011-06-02T20:21:00.007-06:002011-06-04T23:01:07.375-06:00Both expecting in July...So...my sister and me. We're both expecting July babies!<br /><br />Don't tell her I said this, but she's quite a bit bigger than me...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5791782173/" title="Both expecting in July! by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3339/5791782173_75b039c9e2.jpg" alt="Both expecting in July!" height="473" width="377" /></a><br /><br />In other news...<br /><br />Boo is a superhero. <br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5792461224/" title="DSC_3320 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5792461224_23f4bbd01b.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_3320"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5791902777/" title="DSC_3310 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2173/5791902777_eed3429de8.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_3310"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5791903379/" title="DSC_3314 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2645/5791903379_52c033dda4.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_3314"></a><br /><br />"I neder get tired of fighting bad duys, neder!" *NeverKellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-69172186771397622762011-05-21T23:28:00.006-06:002011-05-22T12:23:05.922-06:00<span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5745493238/" title="Untitled-1 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2669/5745493238_48cd6676cd_z.jpg" alt="Untitled-1" height="640" width="640" /></a></span><br /><br /> <span style="font-size:130%;">We are expecting a baby boy July 22!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">YAY!!!</span>Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-24668840089050871502011-05-09T16:52:00.009-06:002011-05-14T09:31:45.843-06:00A mother is me.Yesterday I woke up feeling anxious to get to church. I didn't want to miss the Mother's Day songs and talks I so needed to hear. I was out of bed even before The Hubs and that is rare. I'm usually the one begging, '10 more minutes please!'<br /><br />Once we got there I knew why. It wasn't just the talks and music I wanted to hear, but the feelings God needed me to have. One of my friends was speaking about moms. My first thought was how crappy it was that she had to speak on Mother's Day. It's supposed to be her day off, I thought. But how glad I am that she consented to speak because her words were inspired. I was meant to hear those words as I'm sure were many others in the congregation.<br /><br />She spoke about women who struggle with having children and how all of us, even those who don't have any children are still mothers to someone. We all deserve to be celebrated, she said, because of the nurturing qualities we were born with regardless of our situation.<br /><br />It wasn't her exact words that stood out to me, but the feelings and emotions they evoked inside of me. I cried the entire way through her talk not out of pity for myself, but because I know God is aware of me. I had a very strong sense of peace and self-assurance.<br /><br />The Hubberton is very thoughtful and gave me a little something to give me comfort.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5704978211/" title="DSC_2807 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3136/5704978211_b9c79946a1_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2807" height="640" width="640" /></a><br />It reads "Eventually." Does it give you chills? Because it gave me chills when I opened it.<br /><br />And the little boy who makes this mama's life more special than she ever imagined.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5704983191/" title="DSC_2752 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3256/5704983191_e1ec9c5296_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2752" height="640" width="427" /></a><br /><br />Happy Mother's Day!!Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-80198120174075192602011-05-02T20:22:00.006-06:002011-05-03T07:22:38.513-06:00Boo's bedtime prayer..."Dear Heavenly Father,<br /><br />Please bless I can have my baby. I want it so bad. I don't know why it's taking so long. I really, really don't. I just want it soon please.<br /><br />Amen."Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8949757471069963995.post-39131372082263965402011-04-27T23:14:00.009-06:002011-04-28T15:32:53.722-06:00Resurrection RollsFamily Home Evening Monday night was dedicated to the resurrection of our Savior. I wanted to do something special to help Boo remember why we celebrate Easter.<br /><br />I found the idea somewhere online quite awhile ago and I can't remember where. So I looked it up again for a refresher on <a href="http://homegrownmom.com/creating-family-times/resurrection-rolls-an-easy-easter-treat/1689">this</a> cute site. We had a lot of fun and this is what we did.<br /><br />I explained to Boo that the marshmallow represents Jesus because it is white and pure.<br />Then I had Boo dip 'Jesus' in butter and roll it in cinnamon and sugar representing the oils and spices they rubbed on his body after he died to preserve it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5663078243/" title="DSC_2716 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5663078243_0c259c0a47_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2716" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br />We then took the dough of a single crescent roll and wrapped up the marshmallow tightly, representing the cloth they wrapped Jesus' body.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5663078687/" title="DSC_2718 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5308/5663078687_14a8a89fcd_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2718" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br /><br />He had to make sure no sugary goodness was left behind of course.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5663079171/" title="DSC_2722 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5146/5663079171_52041d862a_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2722" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br />We placed the rolls in the oven which represents the tomb Jesus' body was placed in.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5663648188/" title="DSC_2724 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5187/5663648188_d73d640106_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2724" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br />And Boo sneaked a mallow while I wasn't looking.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5663647944/" title="DSC_2725 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5068/5663647944_17e67a33ac_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2725" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5663080411/" title="DSC_2728 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5141/5663080411_f526d8f997_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2728" height="640" width="425" /></a><br /><br />When the rolls were done we cut them open and the marshmallow was gone representing Jesus' resurrection.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5663080663/" title="DSC_2731 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5224/5663080663_4e3f311fa9_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2731" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Boo thought it was magic... and very, very tasty.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knickersortrousers/5663078019/" title="DSC_2736 by kelli anne, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5022/5663078019_7b065c65fa_z.jpg" alt="DSC_2736" height="425" width="640" /></a><br /><br />This is a keeper.<br /><br />The next morning Boo woke up and asked, "Can I have some more Jesus'?"<br /><br />I'm pretty sure he totally grasped the concept.Kellihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06539229078100487308noreply@blogger.com12