She's Two!!!

Chloe turned two years old yesterday. Pictures are coming. I can't believe she's already two. Why does the time fly so fast? It just isn't fair!!

You're Not Alone

I had the wonderful experience of attending the Utah Parent Center's Family Links Conference this past weekend with my good friend, Johanna. Now, I probably would have gone just to hang out with Johanna, because that doesn't happen often enough, so the rest of the conference was a great bonus! This conference is geared to families with special needs children. It was amazing.

The keynote speaker for Friday night was Dr. Robert Brooks. He is a motivational speaker who has had experience working with many children with special needs including time in a 'locked unit' of a hospital. He gave a great talk on building resilient children. He reminded us that everyone has 'islands of competence' (or strengths) that should be nurtured. We have certainly noticed that with our kids. Brayden may have never spoken a word in his life, but he has touched so many lives.

The keynote speaker for Saturday morning was Michael McLean. I have been inspired by his music since I was in high school, so it was a real privilege to hear him speak. I hadn't known before the conference that he has suffered from depression for most of his life. It sure gives a new meaning to many of those songs.

It was really a great experience. I was so impressed with all of the classes I attended. I hope to learn more about Music Therapy, building resilient children, planning for Brayden's future, and many other things.

And of course, it is always good to remember that you're not alone. No matter what your situation is, you're not alone. Our Savior suffered your pain. He knows what you are going through. Turn to Him in your time of need.

Broken

My wonderful neighbor, Brenda, sent this to me in an email. It was so beautiful, I just had to post it here. Thanks Brenda! We love you and your family so much!

The video was done by a Seminary teacher in Lehi, Utah.

Why Mormons Build Temples

Pretty Toes Mommy!

Normally I wouldn't blog about getting a pedicure, but Chloe's reaction was PRICELESS. Now, you have to understand that I veryrarely get a pedicure. In fact, this was only my second one ever, so she has never seen me with such gorgeous toes! Usually I just slap on some paint myself or let Andraia try her hand at painting them. This time they are shiny, purple and have flowers on them. A few hours after my pedicure we had gone out to dinner with my parents. As soon as we got home, Chloe insisted I take off my shoes and sit down so she could admire my toes! She kept saying "Pretty toes, Mommy!" And counting them. She is too funny!!

Its Your 5AM Wake-up Call!!

Have you ever gone to the doctor with a 'minor' complaint only to find out that you've been unnecessarily living with something for far too long? I made a visit to my doctor a few weeks ago to talk about some everyday issues only to find out that I needed some different medications than the ones I was taking. I hadn't realized it until then that I had been battling some really severe issues ever since Chloe was born (almost 2 years ago). It was a real wake up call that I need to do a better job listening to my own body and taking my own symptoms more seriously. I am always so good at sending Earl and the kids to the doctor at the slightest hint of a problem, but I'm not so good when it comes to myself. So, ladies. I hope you are all doing a better job than I am. Take care of yourselves. Don't live with something you think is minor because you are making yourself a priority. I was lucky that my situation wasn't any worse and am starting to feel like a completely new person. I didn't realize how bad it was until it started getting better. Don't follow my example.

I'm So Glad When Daddy Comes Home, Glad As I Can Be!

Our kids were soooo excited to see their Dad last night. It was so precious. Of course, the flight was delayed out of JFK, but only by about 30 minutes. So we left later than usual for our drive to the airport. I tried to drag out dinner and after dinner activities as long as possible, but the kids were so anxious to pick up Daddy!

At the airport, Brayden decided that he didn't like having to walk around with the crowds of people. He would much rather have hidden in his stroller, but Mommy was trying to be 'adventurous' and didn't bring in the stroller this time. Spencer wasn't very thrilled with this either, because he was in charge of holding Brayden's hand and Brayden likes to use his head as a weapon when he's upset. Luckily, Spencer has a very kind heart and took Brayden for a lap around the baggage carousels while we waited.

So much for being adventurous, Mom. What was I thinking?

The girls were so thrilled to see their dad!! First, Andraia gave a very hearty welcome to Earl's friend, Tim. Andraia loves everyone from Earl's office and had to make sure that Time knew we were there to see them. I'm sure Tim was in a hurry to get home to his own family, but he stopped to chat with her for a minute.

A couple of minutes later, we saw Earl coming down the escalator. Andraia RAN to her Dad. She was so excited!!! I wasn't expecting Chloe to take off as well. She had been insisting on being carried since we entered the crowds of people and acted like she was ready to fall asleep. But as soon as she saw her dad, she jumped out of my arms and RAN as fast as she could to her Daddy.

I think Earl was a bit surprised at the enthusiastic reception. But he really deserves it. We all missed him very much and are very glad that he's home! Even if he did go to New York without us!!