My Son's Honesty

Alright people here goes. I know everyone sets New Year's resolutions each year. I know that most of them are self-improvement goals. I also know that a large population of people place weightloss, working out, or general health at the top of their list.

It has come to my attention that I too, must put some effort into losing some weight this year. The final clue or straw that broke the camel's back, so to speak was a funny conversation that I had with Cam tonight.

Let me set the scene for you. I'm slouched on the couch watching TV. Cam walks up and places his hand on my not-so-flat stomach and we have the following conversation:

CAM: Mommy, are we going to have a baby?
ME: What?
CAM: Are you going to have a baby?
ME: No, why did you ask?
CAM: Because your tummy keeps getting fatter.
ME: No, It's not a baby. It's just chubby.
CAM: Are you sure?
ME: Yes, I'm sure.
CAM: Maybe you should go to the Dr. and check.

Now, in addition to talking to me, he is rubbing and squishing his hand in my abdomen to make sure there's nothing in there of interest.

CAM: I think I feel the lump.
ME: No you don't. Quit squishing my fat.

So, I guess I better do something about this. I have been thinking about going back to the gym or Weight Watchers. I'm not sure yet. At any rate, it's pretty evident that I need to do something! I just think it's hillarious that Cam noticed.

Cutting Wood

The kids and I drove to my parent's house in southwest New Mexico to spend Christmas with family. When we come here, it's always a reminder of how cushy our life in the city is.

My dad, brother Justin, Cam and I got to take a little drive up to one of my dad's horse pastures to cut some firewood. There was a big fire there a year and a half ago, so the dead trees needed cleared out. We were only working up there for a few hours, but were able to cut a good ammount of wood to last them at least through this winter. We will probably go back and cut some more before we leave if the weather permits. It was snowing when we were up there this time.

I love to come and do things like this with my family! I especially think it's good for Cam to experience hard work. It's one of those things you can only learn by doing. For the most part, Cam stayed in the truck where it was nice and cozy while my dad and Justin cut and I stacked the wood. He did get out to help load the trailer a couple of times, though. Here he is posing with my dad's chainsaw. (for the record, we did not let him opperate it!)

End of the Semester

Hip, Hip, Horray!! I took my final today and am done with level 3!

It's been an interresting semester of nursing school- filled with lectures and clinical days all about labor, delivery and pediatrics. Coming into the start of the school year I knew I would most likley enjoy the L&D segment, but didn't think I'd enjoy Pediatrics nearly as much as I did. In fact, I'm considering working in a pediatric setting after graduation. Anyone who knows me really well is probably laughing right about now....ok get over it. People change, and yes, there was a time that I didn't want kids and even stated I didn't like kids all that much, but that's not the case now.

I love taking care of these little boys and girls!! Maybe working in primary has something to do with it? I'm not sure. All I know is that I'm one step closer to knowing what I want to do as a nurse when I graduate in May.

Thanks to all of you that have been my personal cheerleaders as I have labored through these past 3 semesters of school. Without your love and support and encouragement, I would have been tempted to give up at times.

My 4th and final semester of nursing school starts in January. I'm looking forward to getting this over with. I feel like I've been in school forever. Actually, it's only been a couple of years, but still. It's not that fun sometimes. Until then, I'm taking some time to read for fun, relax with my family in NM, and spend time with my kiddos.

Now I can take a deep breath and relax...

Camper

Because I don't have anything good to blog about these days, I'm just going to randomly post pics of my kids. Keeps people coming back for more.

Good Feelings

Note to Self: When experiencing a bad mood, simply look at this picture.

Mara in the Hospital

First and foremost- do not worry. Mara is not currently in the hospital. She was in there almost a month ago, but I am just now documenting it.

I won't go on and on with the whole story, because to be honest, most of you reading this know the story anyways! I just wanted to say thanks and post some pictures.

In short, after getting an infection through an insect bite, we had to go to Dell Children's hospital because oral antibiotics weren't clearing it up. Luckily we only had to stay a little over 24 hours. Mara was quite the trooper, even after getting stuck 6 times for an IV that eventually failed. She has since made a complete recovery from her bout with cellulitis in her leg.

After a few days of eating very little, Mara's appetite returned for some pancakes, eggs and applesauce.

Thank you Nancy and Tammy for coming to visit us and bring Mara goodies and this giant Jack-o-Lantern! She loved it so much she carried it around the house until it totally deflated just a few days ago!

We would like to thank all of you for the thoughts and prayers and phone calls while we had our little scare. My heart goes out to all the families with children that have weeks and months of hospitalization to endure. I don't know how they do it. As I prepare to become a nurse myself, I know this experience will stay with me and help me relate to my patients better. I have gained a whole new perspective.

Dressing Like a Girl

This is Mara’s go-to outfit these days. She wants to wear her “wetard” and her princess shoes all the time. Last night at the Halloween activity we went to, she got these superstar shades to complete the ensemble.

These little heels light up with blue flashing LED lights when she walks around.

Gotta love this little girly-girl!