The Bakers Corner

Away in a Manger

2011-12-15T08:02:00.001-08:00

Day 15
Luke 2:1-7
Suit cases were stacked by the door, house was miraculously clean, and we sat around the table making a bed for baby Jesus. Sweet baby Jesus.

Short and Sweet, cause I'm leavin on a jet plane people!

2011-12-14T19:34:00.000-08:00

Day 8

Luke 1:57-80

Zechariah describes Jesus as the "rising son" coming from Heaven to "shine on those in darkness."

Day 9

Joseph

Matthew 1:18-24

Day 10

Josephs Dream

Matthew 1:18-25

We made a pillow and discussed the Angel coming to Joseph in a dream.

Day 11

Jesus' name

Matthew 1:18-25

His name shall be called Jesus. We made these cute little name banners, with Jesus' name in the center surrounded by other names. Talked about all the names for Jesus and their meanings.

Day 12

Census

Luke 2:1-7

I think this has been their favorite craft so far. We dyed rice and placed it in a jar. Hiding two glass beads in it to represent Mary and Joseph in a town full of people. They however were set apart because God had a plan for them.

p.s you will probably notice the kids wearing the same thing on day 11 and 12. Well, we all fall off the wagon at some point! We got right back on though. ;)

Day 13

Oh little town of Bethlehem

Luke 2:1-7

Totally forgot to take a finished product picture. Here are the kids painting their little towns.

Day 14

The Stable

Luke 2:1-7

Truth in the Tinsel, Virgins, Finals, Tension

2011-12-07T18:09:00.000-08:00

Yes we are still going strong. Bed time is a bit later and messes are a bit larger, but we will craft on.

Day 4

Our Scripture was Luke 1:26-38 The Angel Gabriel. This was a great craft, beautiful and shiny. The girls learned a few new words too. Mommy what's conceive. Me (letting out my breath, thankful they didn't ask about the V word.) It means to become pregnant. Them: Oh... What's a Virgin? Me: (nice and simple, nice and simple, big breath-) Oh, well to get pregnant a woman lays with a man. If she hasn't done it yet she is a virgin. Them: Okay. Me- relief.

Day 5

Our Scripture was the same, you know in case the kids had more questions! ;) We talked more about Mary and her willingness to do what God had asked of her. Then we made little Mary clothes pins with felt dresses.

Day 6

Mary and Elizabeth Luke 1:39-45. Paper dolls and water colors! We attached the bellies with pop dots so they stick out. So fun. (doesn't take much to thrill me!) Also love the story Elizabeth's baby jumping at the sound of Mary's voice. Then we looked at pictures of me pregnant and they told me how fat I was. Beauty.

Day 7

Mary's Song, Luke 1:46-56 Beautiful scripture of Mary praising God for choosing her to do His will. How fitting that we made little cd's.

As I was saying doing the craft is wonderful. I love the conversations we have had and even that the boys have been involved. Leading up to the craft is another story. We are days away from Dad's first final and he has been preparing for a while now. I am worn thin let me tell you. My lists seem to be growing instead of shrinking. I keep HaViNg to DO Dr. visits INSTEAD of errands and TRYING to keeps nap regular AND pick up kids at the right time. I have STOPPED going to my workouts so I can get things done. Which is sTuPiD too, because I for some reason signed up for a 10k. What in the hell-O am I thinking!? DID I MENTION we are leaving town soon! Oh man, why am I even taking the time to write all this instead of getting something done!

(counting to ten)

Well perhaps it's because I smile when I see these pictures. Because when I am writing about everything other than my tension, I don't feel the stress weighing in on me. So I will blog on and craft on and keep chipping away and adding to my list, and in 8 days I will surround myself with the people I love most. It will be wonderful and yes this is all worth it... as long as I survive that race!

Truth in the Tinsel Day 2 and 3

2011-12-03T05:06:00.000-08:00

Scripture for day 2 was again Isaiah 9:2-7, But we talked this time about our King Jesus. Wonderful counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace. Then we made crowns! Today did go better than day 1. I gave Ben a paint brush with a cup of water. Magic!

For Day 3 Our scripture was Luke 1:5-25. The story of Zachariah and his unbelief that he and his wife could have a child at their age and how he was struck dumb. Then we made Zachariah's with a bubble over his mouth!

10 Years 10 Things

2011-12-02T12:14:00.000-08:00

When Todd and I were married we said to one another. On our 10 year Anniversary let's go back to Tahiti, the place he asked me to be his wife. Well we didn't quite make it back. As amazing as that place is with it's crystal clear water, thick jungle mountain peaks, warm breezes. I didn't need it. What I have right here within my reach is everything I will ever need as long as I have my husband to share it with.

I woke up this morning with rats in my hair and death on my breath, to a kiss from a prince. He told me I was beautiful and he sang me a song.

i've got an angel

she doesn't wear any wings

she wears a heart that can melt my own

she wears a smile that can make me wanna sing

she gives me presents

with her presence alone

she gives me kisses on the lips just for coming home she can make angels

i've seen it with my own eyes

you gotta be careful when you've got good love

cause the angels will just keep on multiplying

but your so busy changing the world

just one smile can change all of mine

we share the same soul

oh oh oh oh

we share the same soul

Can i just tell you that while he sang to me I could feel the warm breeze, the sun on my face, the sand between my toes. I have everything.

Christmas wishes

2011-12-01T18:10:00.000-08:00

About a week ago the kids woke up and didn't bother waking me. They were busy making a list...

Olivia's

Dear Santa I want a icey maker But I need a Bike!!!! I tryed to Be nice all the time But now one can Be nice all the time except Jesus can I please have Both. I need a Bike Because I lerned to ride it with out traning wheels and it is to small for me! From Olivia My stocking green red green red padorn

Paige's

Santa all I want for christmas is my two front teeth and a -> snow globe and a cotten candy maker. tern --> and a amaracin girl from Paige

Claire's

all I want for christmas Is my Two front teeth an Amaricin Girl Claire

Aaron's

dictated by Aaron written by Olivia

A few things you need to know before you read it. fack=fake picher= picture. You should be able to figure out the others

1. Scooby Doo Movie

2. fack computer

3. fack piano

4. picher

5. picher fram

6. stuft animal

7. fack tv

8. desel ten movie

9. fack food(do not forget pizza)

10. a scooter(with traning wheels)

from Aaron

fack! ha She get's it from me.

Truth in the Tinsel Day 1

2011-12-01T16:32:00.000-08:00

I came across this e-book, on black Friday and it was 2.99$ Score! So here we are on our first day. Our Scripture was Isaiah 9:2-7 and we made a little candle. It was nice and peaceful at first, taking turns reading the scripture and talking about what each verse meant. Then the boys finished their bath and wanted in on the action. That's about when my days allotment of patience ran out, and I am sure I robbed them of what was meant to be a joyful craft time.

They are still smiling though! Hoping day 2 will be more joyous, and that they will start talking a whole lot more about Jesus and give Santa a little break.

Running

2011-11-25T11:01:00.000-08:00

Todd had the crazy idea to run a Half Marathon. 13.1 miles. That's far, too far. He is a go getter like that. We made the trip into Richmond to be supportive. I missed him crossing the finish line. I'll take the sopping wet clothes and salt crystals on his forehead as proof that indeed he actually did do it! We are proud of our daddy!

Fall

2011-11-23T18:08:00.000-08:00

Nothing warms my heart more than these faces. My big kids. Including Ben, he refuses to be my baby. He has places to go and people to see. Cars to watch, cats to chase. Sisters to avoid and a big brother to wrestle with. Life is good. I am blessed beyond words.

Grandma and Grandpa Baker came to visit us during the month of October. It was wonderful as usual.

Grandma always has a craft stuffed up her sleeve, and this year it was in the form of a Scarecrow.

He did his job well. It took me a week before I could go outside without jumping at the sight of him. I heard a little girl cry pointing to him in fear. Our neighbor told us the story of walking one afternoon, puzzled that we wouldn't say hello back or wave to him.

Greenfield farm with the family

This year is the first time in 8 years that Todd and I snuck away from the kids for a few days. We had so much fun. Acting like kids ourselves. We watched the sunrise and hiked till my legs hurt, did a little spelunking, and ended the day watching the sunset.

This Halloween we had some groovy costumes. I spent plenty of time digging in thrift stores to find the perfect matches for our mystery gang, and Jeepers what do you know?

Raking mounds of leaves is nothing when you have helpers like mine!

True Story

2011-10-13T20:04:00.000-07:00

If you let Dad take the kids to the park,

they will see the nature trail and want to go for a walk.

When Dad takes them for a walk,

they will pass the river and want to throw stones.

While they are throwing stones,

they will see a baby frog.

Then they will pick him up,

and ask to bring it home.

Once they bring it home,

they will see that he needs supplies.

Later they will dump blood worms and live crickets into his cage,

and worry when he won't eat.

Then they will get Daddy,

and beg him to save their frog.

Dad will discover that the Northern cricket frog can't be a pet,

and they will have to take him back to the river.

Then the kids will cry,

and Daddy will promise to take them to the pet store for a new frog.

And chances are,

when he takes them to the pet store,

we will end up with ...

HAMSTERS?!

Mom is left wondering if the 3 hours of peace and quiet was worth it!

My Little Hero

2011-09-23T08:08:00.000-07:00

I practically had to bribe him to come outside and play in the rain. All he wants to do anymore is play the "puter". Computer for those of you scratching your heads. He would do it for hours. It's temping I tell you. However I would much rather have this guy right by my side.

Back to School

2011-09-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

First Day of School

Olivia 3rd grade

with her teacher Mrs. Strickler

Claire 1st grade

with her teacher Mrs. Trimpe

Paige 1st grade

with her teacher Mrs. Stork

Magic Eight Ball? Will I ever get better at blogging?

2011-07-17T13:27:00.000-07:00

LOOKS DOUBTFUL

I am a bad, really bad blogger.

Here is how Summer went down.

Family & Friends...

FUN...

Fourth of July...

Paige and Claire's Scooby Doo Party

We had a scavenger hunt to solve the mystery

"case of the missing birthday cake"

turns out a ghost had taken it.

We miss all of our Family and Friends. Till next time.

Summer with...

2011-06-10T06:26:00.000-07:00

Olivia the Outstanding

Claire the Charmer

Paige the Precocious

Aaron the Amusing

Ben the Beloved

The girls will come barreling home in a few minutes and we can't wait to have a full and fun summer. Monday we will head out west to be with our family. We are all so excited!!

Cheese and Whine

2011-05-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

Let's face it. This Mother thing is not for the faint. I have always dreamed and planned on being a mom. When asked "what are your plans for the future." My answer was- "I will be married and I will stay at home!" In my mind I saw nearly perfect obedient children, with their hair always combed neatly, dressed in outfits with accessories. I saw myself helping with homework, while preparing gourmet meals. Everyone had smiles and manners. Pretty sure I was showered, and had on some real clothes too.

My reality is pretty much run by the stress of living up to that dream. Keeping things in order, trying to live up to what seems like an impossibility. I live in this world where saying put your shoes away means slip them on and take them off somewhere else. Hang up your coat, means put it on the nearest door knob. Brush your teeth means wet the toothbrush so when mom checks to make sure we did it, she thinks we did! Cleaning your room means putting the clothes under the bed. Asking if piano has been practiced is met with eye rolls. Good grief, what have I done wrong!?! They turned out just like me!

This is what my mom meant when she said. "You just wait- One day you will have children of your own." Did she plan this? How did she know?

I am so tired! Will I survive? Will they?

Yesterday I yelled at my kids. Then I sat in my room on the floor and cried. I said a little prayer, then I wiped my tears and went back to the hardest job in the world. Thankfully they took me back. They are teaching me so much about who I am, my expectations, and what I need to work on. The list is long my friends.

And while everything is not like my dreams, each smiling face, carefree laugh, and free spirit give me the fullest heart a mother could ever ask for.

Happy Mothers Day!

To my Mother, who I love, miss and appreciate even more than before. Thank-you for the love and support you have given me over the years.

Ben is One

2011-05-06T17:52:00.000-07:00

We Love him...

Before and After

2011-04-28T06:16:00.000-07:00

This is the boys room.

small

cramped

dresser in the closet

shoes behind closet door

furniture along every wall

makes me crazy

The Challenge.

Aaron's needs:

cars

big bed

My needs:

must make me stop pulling my hair out

Final results:

we both win

House Guests

2011-04-15T17:39:00.001-07:00

Visits from family always equals fun. We loved having Todd's parents here for two weeks this month. I am not sure who enjoyed it more the kids or me!

We miss you already

Turning Three

2011-04-10T19:22:00.001-07:00

Before the dust could even settle from all the Narnia Madness my thoughts were turned to a little blue engine, and the number 3. Plans were much less elaborate, however there seemed to be everything there that a three year old boy could ever want. He was pleased with his small gathering.

Birthday morning he discovered this downstairs. We hardly saw him the rest of the day.

Grandpa made a Birthday Feast! Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Green beans. It was great!

His Cake

Enjoying every bite!

His buddies Ari and Cal

Aaron is turning into such a sweet little boy. He adores his sisters. I see a very close bond between he and Olivia. She is so patient with him, playing with him and reading to him whenever I ask or even just because she wants to. He is a good big brother. Sharing with Ben but he is also quick to show Ben his place. He finally potty trained in February! Thank the good Lord! One thing I didn't expect though is that my bathroom would smell like a urinal. ICK! I can't stand it and end up with a bucket of pine sol, a sponge and rubber gloves, scrubbing it down. Sadly it would seem this needs to be a frequent thing. I suppose I should show the girls how it's done. (Evil laugh).

A few things I have learned from Aaron...

When nature calls, you've got to answer!

One can not assume sleep is occurring just because it is quiet!

If you need to shop, then pony up a buck for the horsey ride. We must ride the carousel at the mall!

Thanks for all the laughs and lessons you have taught me sweet boy!

Planning a Party

2011-03-26T18:04:00.000-07:00

I don't really like celebrating birthdays. They stress me out. There are so many decisions to make, and I seriously panic if I have to make them alone. All year long I have been preparing Olivia for her birthday. Saying key words like "small, one friend." Yet somehow as her Birthday approached I was taken with the idea of having her girl friends here. I was thinking pizza slumber party, maybe doing nails and dancing. Nothing to stress out about, just having fun with the girls. Olivia however had her own plans, and my seemingly small simple party slowly started turning into The Chronicles of Narnia Birthday. Narnia is her latest craze. Dad started reading the C.S. Lewis books to her over Christmas breaks starting the obsession. I wasn't even sure how to have this kind of party. I spent time researching on the Internet, reading about parents who dressed and acted like the characters, going way overboard in my opinion! I just wanted to use their ideas for games, keep it simple you know. I got some ideas of my own and ran with them, and soon there wasn't much that was simple about the day. The kids had a great time, and while I pulled a few late nights, and as usual was stressed out. I had so much fun with the kids!!

The Invitations

The Cake

The Wardrobe

The Land of Narnia

Mr. Tumnus Cave

The Games

The Food

Olivia and her best friend Aiden who also slept over

The kids after their Strawberry Waffle Breakfast!

It really was a perfect party and today Olivia gave me the biggest hug, and thanked me for her best party ever. I hugged her and said "Next year Olivia, one friend!"

Life Happens

2011-03-07T19:14:00.000-08:00

We have survived our first semester. I am proud of Todd and his hard work and dedication. I think he did fabulous! However I am not allowed to talk about it. It's a weird law school thing. On the other hand, I can talk about how I did. Thankfully there was a generous curve, and I managed scrape by.

All the visits we have had have kept me going. Todd's parents were here in October. It was so great to have them. We took a trip to Williamsburg and enjoyed all the history and the beach.

My sister and Brother-in-law were here for a brief weekend in December. We packed in a few D.C. activities, and some wine country tours.

We spent two weeks in Orlando over Christmas with Todd's family making memories at Disney World.

Then my parents came towards the end of January. It was so nice to have them, and to show them around Charlottesville and D.C.

I have also made so many great friends. Seana, my neighbor inspires me. She has 4 children very close to the ages of my kids. Her husband is in a Cardiology fellowship. So she knows just exactly how I feel and she has proved to be a pillar to me! She is the only one who can pull my butt out of bed at 5am. I ran with her in the fall and am looking forward to doing it this spring too.

Merrie, you have saved me! Helped me escape for time away with my husband and been such a resource of knowledge and understanding with everything! Merrie runs VLF(Virginia Law Families), even though they call her husband the president. No offense Kirk. Kirk and Todd, we have decided were twins separated at birth. From attending the same college in the same dorm hall at the same time, to the same careers and of course let us not forget, AMAZING taste in wives. Let's just call it like it is, right?

There is Jaime who is at my door if she even hears I am having a hard time. She likes to ring my doorbell and take off leaving me bagels, and other goodies. She calls me just to chat, and when we can get away, we do it over a glass of wine. I am so blessed, and that's just naming a few.

I have been really tested over these past few months. My husband is my rock. While he is so busy with his workload, he has never hesitated to put his family first. I love that man!

Swimming

2011-03-07T18:28:00.001-08:00

OK, OK. So it's a hot summer day and I am about to go swimming and I know the water is going to feel fantastic once I get in, but it's just cool enough that I can't get past my knees.

Role of the pool will be played by my blog!

What the heck! Do you know how many times I have waded into a new post, and just haven't been able to finish it. I guess this is life with 5 kids, and a husband in law school. 6 months have flown by so fast I don't even know if it can be summed up. I've had such a hard time trying to figure out just where to begin and how to tie it all together.

But here we go again. Sometimes it's best to just jump in!

Thanks for the swim.

First Day of School

2010-08-30T10:53:00.000-07:00

Spare Change

2010-08-23T19:37:00.000-07:00

Olivia has such a kind heart. So much so that she spent 17 dollars of her birthday money, and tooth fairy money on her sisters for their birthday. Her sisters had their hearts set on a little doll they had seen in some store. Paige and Claire tend to be in the here and now. They want it, there is nothing they could possible want more later, they have to have it!!! Yes, it's dramatic like that too. I ignore it, not Olivia. So Todd made sure that's what she wanted to do with her money and helped her with the purchases. She was so excited she couldn't stand it. Paige and Claire of course were thrilled for a week, and now their new dolls are not quite so exciting. They were itching to spend their birthday money and gift cards.

So when it came time to empty piggy banks into purses, Olivia ran to gather her money too. She had a few dollars that she had conned out of grandpa and change. She was just as excited till we got to the store and I showed her what she could afford. She was so bummed. It was so hard not to give her more money. Daddy gave her a big hug and whispered "remember how happy your sister were?" She did, but it didn't help much.

She has been busy collecting pennies and dimes she finds around the house and she sold me a key chain she made a while back. She also begged for me to let her set up a table so she could sell some of her most valuable things. She was so determined so I let her.

I threw 50 cents in the jar to get her started, but sad to say she had no takers. Not even on the free ones. I felt that maybe had she said "Idaho rocks for sale" then she may have had an edge. I imagine she will take mail orders.

She is also willing to give make-overs. I have seen the outcome of these though, and I would advise you to buy some rocks!

Man, I love that girl!

So far

2010-08-14T18:25:00.002-07:00

Here's just a little look into what we have been up to since arriving in C'ville.

There are over 22 miles of nature trails that loop around town called the Rivanna Trails. Todd has been looking into them trying to find a route to get him to school, only to find out that they are really not meant for mountain biking. He was constantly having to get off the bike, to go over downed trees. Then he would come home covered in mud because the bike stopped, but he didn't. One day it took him 30 minutes to go three miles and it was then he decided it would be safer to ride on the main road than to take the trails!

That hasn't kept him off the trails though, he has been up early every morning to go running. He comes home everyday to tell us about the deer he sees and how close he was. So one afternoon we all went out to have a look. While we didn't see any deer we enjoyed the beautiful walk.

Deer seem to be everywhere. We were having dinner one evening when one of the kids spotted the deer across the street in the neighbors lawn. There were 4, three does and one buck.

Last Sunday we took the kids to the splash park and had a picnic.

Our Blueberry bushes are going crazy! I am having a hard time keeping up. I have a gallon frozen already. They just keep on coming.

I need to get better about taking pictures and I will work on it but just want to share with you what I have.

Todd starts orientation tomorrow!

Better out than in I always say

2010-08-11T12:40:00.001-07:00

Three months old now and just as squishy as ever! Ben stops people where ever we go. They have to rub his soft down hair and catch a glimpse of his gummy smile. Squish, squish, squish, you could seriously eat this kiddo!!!

Poor little Ben had a rough bout this month with constipation. It probably bothered me more than it did him, but it lasted long enough that I think it is blog worthy. I actually wasn't that worried at first. I have had enough kids and asked the Dr. enough times to know that breastfed babies don't get constipated. It's a very rare thing (kind of like having twins and a vasectomy failing after 2 years). Boy we have all the luck, don't we? Anyway, I didn't even mention it at his 2 month check which he was like at day 8 of no pooping, because he passed gas regularly and seemed just as happy as ever. Well about 2 or 3 days after that I got called home from a mommy night out because he wouldn't stop crying. Of course by the time I got home he was fast asleep. Todd and I figured constipation was probably the culprit.

The next day however, probably deserves it's own post, everything happened all at once, and I was also right in the middle of packing up our house. The kids were bored with all the toys being packed up. The novelty of playing outside had worn off, they were hungry and all needed my attention, and Ben was screaming. I called Todd to let him know he was needed ASAP, and then called the Dr. to see if I could give Ben a little laxative. The Dr. gave me the ok, so I left Olivia in charge locked the little monsters, I mean the kids out of my room and grabbed one of Aaron's diapers. After all, I knew Ben's wouldn't hold what was coming, because I was still trying to fit his 15 lbs into a size two! The poor little guy let go and must have lost 2 lbs!

I wish that was the end of it, but it doesn't stop there. He didn't poop again for well over 2 weeks! And I am telling you that his gas could clear a room! On our trip here Grandpa actually rolled the windows down! It was that bad. Oh and I have a wonderful handy Udder cover made by the amazing Miranda, but when I feed him and he passes gas it all escapes right in my face! It's like cup-a-fooey basically. Nasty. You definitely don't want to be holding him when he does it either, because most people will look at you like they knew the baby didn't do that! Oh my word I couldn't make this up if I tried.

You will all be happy to know that he finally seems to be getting a bit more regular and the gas while still bad, is getting better. If you can say that gas gets better.

Poor Ben will probably hate me one day for writing this. How could I not though?

Here is how he has grown this month!

9 weeks

10 weeks

11 weeks

spent most of that week in a car!

12 weeks

2600 miles

2010-08-08T12:17:00.000-07:00

We are finally settling in after a journey that included 6 days of driving, 5 different hotels, 2 vehicles, 11 states(if you count the 10 miles we were in Iowa), 1 day delay due to car trouble, 1 round of mastitis, 4 adults, 5 children, and a cat! Whew!! I of course packed my camera to take pictures of all the different things we would see, only to not grab it once. Instead I documented here and there with my cell. It was handy it was easy, and that's all you get. So love it.

This is somewhere in Wyoming...

Once we got to our hotel in Nebraska we decided to walk to the Cabellas up the way. We told the kids it was like a zoo for dead animals. As we walked I got the sneaky suspicion we were being followed. Turns out I was right.

We were a little concerned that Aaron might have allergy trouble being in a new area and all. So here he is in one of his Benadryl induced naps.

The kids were so excited for our stay in Missouri because the Ramada had the Monkey cove water park! We pulled into the hotel Grandma ran into get us checked in and Yukon gave out on us. It was Saturday evening so we had to wait till Monday to have it checked out. It was great that the kids had the water park to play in, unfortunately that was the ONLY good thing about that hotel. St. Joseph Missouri is also the place where mastitis set in, I felt it coming and tried to do hotpacks, but there is only so much you can do in a car. My Dr. in Boise phoned me in some antibiotics.

The Missouri River

Royals and Chiefs Stadium in Kansas City

We stopped for Dinner at the Peace Arch in St. Louis.

Then crossed over the Mississippi River....

and on into Indianna for the night.

Next morning we did a little car hopping. I road in the Penske with Todd, Ben and the cat. Leaving the kids with Grandma and Grandpa in the Yukon. They said they only had to threaten to "tell mom and dad" once! I was glad to have a little break from the kids. It came on a good day because I had a fever. I was in and out of sleep and Unfortunately not great company. Good thing he had the cat.

I thought Kentucky was beautiful.

Here is just outside of Louisville.

Our last night was spent in Charlston West Virginia. The kids got their swimming in.

Finally home sweet home.

The End

Birthday girls

2010-07-23T18:55:00.000-07:00

Somewhere in the middle of all this moving, my babies turned 5! I remember when they were infants thinking "if I can just make it till they turn 5..." Now I sit here trying to figure out how it all flew by so quickly.

They make me laugh, they keep me on my toes. They are perfect! Happy Birthday Claire and Paige!

Swimming

2010-07-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

I had the girls do swimming lessons early this summer. They loved it and are swimming like little fishes. Aaron always had a great time while they swam and class was at the perfect time, so Ben always slept. They loved Miss Stacie!

At 2 months

2010-07-11T16:51:00.001-07:00

If you have seen Ben recently you know he is well fed. Sporting a wrinkle on his wrist and four just on his thighs. He tips the scale at 14lbs 12oz(95%), and measures in at 24 1/4in(90%). He is strong, he is healthy, and he makes cellulite look good! Ben is becoming a great sleeper, bedtime between 7 or 8, and up once to eat around 3am! I am loving this.

I am also loving his smiles, his smell, his hair and his personality! What a guy. He is so easy going and doesn't mind being passed around to all his siblings, even when Aaron sticks his fingers in his eyes, mouth, and yes, even up his nose. We love our little Ben.

Being a young man of his size has earned him a few nicknames. He is loving called "The Meatball" by Uncle Scottie "My little Rollie Poly" by mom, and Grandma Anna calls him "Chubby Cheekers". He doesn't seem to mind, knowing there is just more of him to love.

5 Weeks

6 weeks

7 weeks

8 weeks

Friends Family Fireworks and Fun!

2010-07-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

Father's Day

2010-07-03T20:58:00.000-07:00

Dictionaries define a Father to be A) a male person whose sperm unites with an egg, resulting in the conception of a child, B) a male who adopts a child or C) a male who raises a child.

While yes, it is indeed all those things, it is also much more. It is a tough guy getting choked up holding that brand new baby. A grown man

talking silly just to get a

smile. It's watching a man playing with his child become a boy again. It's Kissing scrapes and bruises, piggy back rides and strong arms, encouragement when your feeling down. It's unconditional love, and so much more.

There is nothing that brings me more joy than watching my husband as a Father. It was a special Father's day this year. Here's to you baby!!

And For the man who brought me into this world

The man who raised me

And the man who treats me like I'm one of his own

You have all had a hand in the woman I have become. Happy Father's Day!

A few things I missed

2010-06-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

Aaron turned 2 at the begining of April. 2 is a great age because kids are able to be excited about their birthday without knowing what's going on. For example, Aarons birthday was the 10th. His dad just happened to be out of town, so we had planned for a party a week later. On his special day we sang to him and while he thought that was great, he was perfectly fine with the fact that was all he got! Fastforward a week later and I am busy planning a barn themed pary, when I get hit with the flu, and yet again have to cancel his birthd

ay. Poor oblivous birthday boy.
We thankfully were able to squeeze in a little shin-dig before Ben was born.

Paige and Claire have been taking Ballet since January, and they had their spring recitle. The theme was fairies in the garden. They did great and I am so proud of them! Here are their performances....

Olivia ran the Capital Classic this year. She was so excited, she practiced with Daddy for weeks before the big race and was thrilled to get the "gold" medal!

We are so proud of all of our children!

1 month

2010-06-04T15:47:00.000-07:00

I wake up two to three times a night. Most of the time I am already sitting up. My head is resting on my own shoulder. My neck is so stiff I have to lift it with my hand. I am still holding Ben who is in burping position, however I don't think he even burped. The amount of sleep I am getting is starting to feel normal, and somehow I am functioning enough to run this house. The kids are all alive, they have clean clothes to wear, food to eat. Life is good.

I am so thankful for all the help we have recieved from friends and family. It has made this month so much easier! As you can see Ben is bigger every day. We all love this little man to pieces!!

May 6, 2010

1 Week

2 Weeks

3 Weeks

4 Weeks

Meant to be

2010-05-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

May 6, 2010

7lbs.7oz

21 in

1:48pm

Benjamin Todd Baker joined this world

Da-Nile, it ain't just a river in Egypt!

2010-04-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

I remember being pregnant with my first child. I found out so early on, and immediately called to get into the Dr. only to find out they didn't need to see me for 5 more weeks. I remember rounding up how many weeks I was dying to be further along than I was. Buying Maternity clothes before I needed them, and letting the belly out to make it obvious that I was indeed with child! I remember wanting my husband with me at all my appointments. I remember being hurt when the Dr. told me that it wasn't the baby moving that I was feeling, it was only gas. I remember how long it took to get to 20 weeks, and after finding out the gender, rushing to the store to buy as much as I could. I remember eating enough for 2... (adults, I might add), and napping whenever I felt tired. I remember everyone telling me I would go early and I remember thinking every day the last 6 weeks, "It could happen today". I remember that I was ready for it to happen.

Fast forward 7 years to today, and here I sit 37 weeks pregnant with my 5th child, trying to convince myself that we are there, done, el final, crossing that finish line. It's time to get my butt in gear and get cracking on getting some baby clothes, pacifiers, sheets. Time to clean the last of girls things out of the baby room and set up shop! Yes indeed, so much changes from the first to the last. For instance, I didn't call my Dr. till I was 10 weeks along. When people ask me many weeks I am, I answer in months. I have loathed maternity clothes and this time bought a few pairs of regular jeans - just up a size or 4. When my husband asked me if I wanted him at one of my appointments, I stared at him and replied "what for?" I remembered the first time I felt the baby that it was probably just gas, and this time after finding out the sex of the baby all we rushed out to do was share the good news. I don't have the luxury at napping when I am tired, and when my Dr. suggested bed rest to me, I simply laughed and told him it wasn't going to happen. One thing that has held true for all my pregnancies though is I have eaten enough for 2...(adults). Sigh.... I sadly never learned, and my thighs are now so close I think I over heard them talking about moving in together! Oh the joys of pregnancy.

And then she was 7...

2010-03-26T22:17:00.000-07:00

We partied it up at Ceramica today, fully loaded with snacks, balloons, smiles, presents, cake and fun!!!!!

I can't believe she is seven

Tu-tu Cute

2010-02-08T08:40:00.001-08:00

Paige and Claire have started Ballet! They love it. Here they are on their first day...

It's a BOY!

2009-12-23T06:58:00.000-08:00

Who knew we had another boy in us?

Spooktacular

2009-11-13T10:40:00.000-08:00

Before all the leaves are gone,

and the turkey has been carved.

Before you hear the Christmas song,

and in the Super Bowl see Favre.

Hear are some faces you may know,

they'll bring a smile to you.

From the night the pumpkins glow,

and the wind whispers BOO!

It was a BOO-tiful time!

no. 5

2009-10-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

You get what you get and you don't throw a fit. That's one of my favorite things to tell my kids. For some reason this cutesy little saying just seems to make sense to them too?! Who'd a thought.

I was at the Dr.s today reading Parenting Magazine and they mentioned this little phrase. I decided to take the advice. For the past 8 weeks I have been silently and not so silently throwing a fit! For those of you who don't know yet, I am pregnant.... again. Against all odds too. Immediately following the birth of our last child we "made sure" we would have any more. Now here we are 19 mo. later growing no. 5. I have been up and down, mostly down, trying to figure out how, why and why. All the answers in the world though will not change the fact that in 7 mo. there will be another child in this house.

I have been afraid at all my first Dr. appointments. Thinking maybe I am not really pregnant. Maybe being sick and tired is something I have made up and nothing is in there. Today was no different. Just like all the other times too, there it was. Tiny little life, heart beating so fast it must be another girl! No. 5 didn't plan for this either, yet the gift of life has been given and given against all the odds. So today I am putting away the fit my husband has lovingly endured, and I will start counting the weeks till the arrival of no. 5.

12 weeks and counting....

Too far gone

2009-08-30T20:34:00.000-07:00

By that I mean, I am so far behind I can not possibly catch up. So let's just say my blog also had Summer Vacation! School starts tomorrow and this year we are doing things a little differently. I will be teaching Olivia at home for 1st grade. I am really excited to give this a go. This past week I have been busy getting the bonus room in our new house ready to go. Yes, new house, we moved. Sorry. Blog was on vacation.

Tonight I unpacked the last of the materials and we actually look ready to go. Olivia is very happy and this evening she reminded me to please wake her up, so she is not late. I love that girl. Claire and Paige are also excited to be learning along with sister this year. They are ready for Pre-School and I will include them in on lessons too. So let the fun begin!!

Things that go bump in the night

2009-05-18T22:24:00.000-07:00

I just can't resist... While writing the previous post I was interrupted by a LOUD thud, followed by a familiar cry. I ran up the stairs listening for what room to run into... It was Claire. She obviously had fallen out of bed. I scooped her up rocked her for a bit and put her back into bed this time a little closer to the middle. Back down stairs I finish up my writing and no sooner than I stand up THUD, again. I rush up the stair to Claire's room but this time it's Paige! How crazy is that? Twins! They have to do everything together!

Talk about your bad hair day

2009-05-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

These were my thoughts exactly as I saw this cat wander into my moms yard this evening. Olivia and I were sitting on the swing together enjoying the warm evening with our root beer Popsicles! We starred at this poor cat snickering as we tried to figure just what was growing off it's back! An animal lover from my younger years, and certainly no stranger to cats I felt for this poor kitty. We called her over

and she quickly responded. Right away we were able to tell that it was matted hair lumped up like some strange tumor. The kitty was very friendly and rubbing against us purring wanting to be petted. I am sure looking like that not many people have wanted to touch her!! Well we touched her, gave her a little love and she just ate it up!!! 'Olivia go get me grandma's scissors', she did. 'That's a good little kitty' snip, snip. meow. snip, snip. The mat of hair was so close to the skin, I was praying I wouldn't snip her! It took a lot of careful snipping, and petting, but we got the two biggest ones. But there were more... Poor kitty needed a good shaving, if only I had my clippers.

'Mommy, what does it mean when she moves her tail like that?' Olivia asked. 'It means she is mad. Want to get her some milk?' The milk worked for a while and I was able to clip a few more mats away, then as if clipping some strangers cat isn't enough for me I get the hair brained idea that she needs a bath! ( No pun intended!) Seriously I don't know why I do what I do. Maybe it was when I felt her paws and said 'hey she is declawed on the front and back!' You probably could have seen the light bulb above my head go off. I went inside and ran a warm sinkful of water. (The one in the laundry room mom! ) Now to get

the cat. I carried her into the house and put her into the sink. click clack click, I heard her nails hit the bottom! Yup nails!!!! Bad idea, I thought. I grabbed her scruff and tried to calm her as best I could with all my years of vet tech experience. I am sure you can imagine what that was like. She did surprisingly well, and I worked as quickly as I could as I started to realize that I just took a random cat off the streets and decided to bathe and groom it!!! LOL What would the owners think when there dear pussy cat shows up minus the 5 lbs of fur masses, and smelling like puppy shampoo, and an expensive conditioner? Seriously, I have out done my self with this one. Sorry Kirt I was going to mow your lawn but instead I bathed your neighbors cat!

Doesn't she look better! I am sure she feels better now that the weight has been lifted off of her back! How sick is that!

Toothfairy outed!!!!

2009-05-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

Olivia finally lost her top tooth!! This baby has been lose for months. Her top gum is so bruised from her pushing it forward. We have been trying to convince her to let us pull it, to which she purses her lips together and adamantly shakes her head no. Today she was beaming when I picked her up from school. Proudly displaying a gaping hole she can probably eat through! Now that all her permanent teeth are coming in I tell her 'Now we really have to brush your teeth good!! No fooling around cause this is all we get! These first five years have just been practice!!' Such good motherly advice don't you think? Papa Mike has given me a stash of Sacajawea $1 coins for such a time as this. Tonight I planned to give her two! (Top teeth are worth more) I snuck into the room and so carefully slip my hand under the pillow.... no tooth! I was having a hard time trying to fish it out and on top of that it sounded like I was rubbing sand paper together, the dang pillow was so stiff when I slip my hand under it was like sitting her up in bed!! She stirred. I hit the carpet. I should have gone with my gut- "Get out, get out now!!! Mission has been compromised get out while you have the chance!!" I think I've got this, one more try..... Then it happened, her sleepy eyes opened she put her arm around my neck and smiled! Busted.

She's Ahhh-Mazing!!!!!!!!

2009-05-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

This is Pat, my Mother-in-law. This picture of her was taken 5 years ago in Zions National Park right after she flew down the zip line! Yup, that's right the zip line! She is a go getter, she never sits still, and she gives so much of herself, to everyone and anything she does!

She was just recognized as "Garden club woman of the year", for the state of Idaho, pacific region, and National garden clubs! We are so proud of you!!!!

Award of Honor – Pat Baker
Our 2008 Award of Honor nominee, Pat Baker, joined a garden club just 7 years ago after she retired her Bon Voyage Travel Agency. Through her business, she met so many garden club members and decided she needed something to do with her time. She immediately jumped into action and volunteered to help in any way she could on garden club projects and right into chairmanship jobs. During this period of time, the Idaho Garden Clubs suffered a major financial crisis from a lawsuit. She came to our aid with several money making projects.
Since garden club members love to travel anytime, anywhere to see gardens, her first organized trip was to the Portland Rose Parade and Rose Show on June 9-12, 2004. She worked in all of the yearly plant sales to learn as much as she could about plants. She enrolled in the Boise State University Horticulture Program and worked in their greenhouses and their plant sale at the Idaho Botanical Gardens. The plants that did not sell at The Botanical Garden ended up at our garden club plant sale the following weekend which more than doubled our sales. She promoted our scholarship programs while there. This year the Southwest District was able to give three scholarships to Boise State University Horticulture students because of Pat’s dedication.
Having very little experience in garden club activities, Pat volunteered as the State Convention Chairman in June of 2006 when the state and regional conventions were back to back. She arranged a tour for the beginning of the regional convention to the World Center for the Birds of Prey with a patriotic tree planting dedication. The next morning she was organizing the sales tables and sold Red Hat merchandise, garden hats and gardening t-shirts for the Idaho Garden Clubs. It was one of the best Pacific Region conventions and a money maker for both conventions.
Because we were now in the black again, we were able to donate money to the Idaho Botanical Garden, Sawtooth Botanical Garden and the University of Idaho Arboretum and the CD’s for our President’s Travel and Scholarship.
Her biggest challenge became the Capitol Park Project. The last master plan for the current park was completed in February, 1978, and called for four diagonal paths crossing in the middle, a shrub border on one side and twenty-six trees. In 2007 the shrub border was gone, eighteen trees remain and the narrow path was well worn and cracked from age and being used as a short cut from the business district to the Capitol. Other than a few picnic tables, there was no seating and the park did not have any flowers or shrubs, only trees and grass. Starting with a grant from Principal Finance for $1,500, which she applied for, she turned it into a complete renovation of the park at a cost of $107,157.00. Some of the funds for the project came from a grant from the Neighborhood Reinvestment – City of Boise when she personally went knocking on every door she could which gave her $21,000. More than 700 feet of broken asphalt paths were widened and replaced with brick. Three Victorian Tea Parties, two gardening symposiums, plant and yard sales, sold pavers, granite benches, and a gardening trip to Canada, Victoria and the Butchart Gardens to name a few of her projects to finish the project. She enrolled the help of garden club members, friends and family to plant trees, shrubs, flowers and even lay sod.
The “Let Freedom Ring Park” as it is sometimes called was dedicated with a color guard, service men, the mayor of Boise, and members of the Legislature on May 30, 2007. Less than one week after the dedication, the park was vandalized. Plants were torn out and sandstone benches were pushed over. Again Pat went before our city fathers and asked for another grant for lighting in the center of the park. Between the grant, the Idaho Garden Clubs, Idaho Horticulture Society, and the Boise Parks & Recreation, two historical street lights were place in the park at a total cost of $12,950. This park is located in the heart of the city directly across the street from the Idaho State Capitol building. The park is a very popular place for meeting friends, having a picnic or just resting on one of the many granite benches. Members of garden clubs have planted red and white tulips which bloom in the spring. During the summer the gardens are planted with red, white and blue annuals. Garden club members are active in the maintenance of the garden. However, on many a day you can drive by the park and see Pat on her knees weeding the gardens. We as garden club members affectionately call it “Pat’s Park”.

Here is a look at "Pat's Park" in the making...

Gretchen nailed it when she said...

"You are the only woman I can think of who could ever accomplish so much and on top of that donate so much of your time and energy to your grandchildren, dad and your travels and your Brookside project! You are amazing!! We love you!"

Tagged by Leah McLean

2009-04-24T19:55:00.000-07:00

At least I think I was, it said Melissa B. I'll just take any excuse to write about myself...

8 of my favorite shows: (I don't know about favorite, but for the time being here is what I watch)

1. Biggest Loser- I just love it! Nothing like watching people work out, while I stuff my face full of snack food!

2. American Idol- Only issue is that this is on during BL, so I have to switch back and forth during commercials.

3. Dancing with the stars- I am going to learn the venetian tango if it kills me!!

Seriously that's it right now!

8 Things I did Yesterday:

1. Running!! My new thing lately is running I am three weeks in and loving it! I love that I have someone to run with- That helps me to get out of bed before 6! Thanks Ciara!!

2. I did my homework for the Beth Moore bible study that I have been doing.

3. Took Aaron to get his 1 Yr. pictures at the Mall.

4. One of my favorite things- I snuggled up with Paige and Claire and sacked out!!! Must be the 6am run!

5. Went to the in-laws for a fabulous Salmon dinner!!

6. Dipped Strawberries in Chocolate with Grandma and my girls!

7. Got all the little ones to bed....

8. Enjoyed my husbands company!

8 Things I am looking forward to:

1. I am going to Utah to see my sister Graduate from College! Woo hoo!! Go Danielle!

2. Driving there with my sister!! I've missed hanging with her since I started working.

3. The Twins starting school!!

4. Moving! 4 more months, 4 more months, 4 more months 4 more months

5. Sleeping out on the trampoline this summer with my girls!

6. My husband being all done with going back to school... Love you babe!

7. Having good health insurance... Although Praise the Lord we have all been very healthy!

8. Jesus coming back! Self explanatory!!! :)

8 of my favorite Restaurants:

1. Chen Mai- Oh my I love it I love it! Green Curry, Mmmm, and the peanut broccoli spinach one!

2. Cotton Wood Grille - It's been far too long!

3. Mai Thai- I like Thai

4. Sawadee- I like Thai

5. Chapala - The chips keep the children busy for hours

6. Smokey Mountain - Brie Kiss here I come!

7. Angell's - cause sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name... (or use to)

8. The Griddle - I eat here the most because I work there! Because I work there I can't leave it off my list! Best Crepes!

8 Things on my wish list:

1. I wish I didn't get tired when I ran!

2. I wish my kids while brushing their own teeth, could do a good enough job so I don't have to help!

3. I wish that Todd and I could go on a long Vacation together!!!!

4. Heck I would take a vacation with the whole family right now!!

5. I wish that the budget I was just put on would go away (not really baby, I am loving it )

6. I wish I didn't own a mini-van, BUT I am thankful for a vehicle we can fit the whole family in.

7. I wish dinner would just cook itself!!! I think this one is my favorite!

8. I wish number 7 would come true!

8 people I tag:

How about anyone who reads this and has a blog! That should almost be 8 :)

Last but not least!

2009-04-24T18:12:00.000-07:00

The youngest member of the Baker family celebrated his first birthday on April 10! I am the youngest, and growing up I use to love looking at family albums. I remember feeling bummed that I didn't have a baby book. I would look through my sisters, read the cards, touch the lock of hair, the bracelet and wonder why didn't I have one.

Now that I am a mother of 4, I know!!! I applaud my mother and all mothers who can complete one! This is a seriously difficult challenge for someone like myself who is not well organized, a procrastinator, and um let's see, freakn' busy!!!

I did try though! I have (somewhere), a record book with all the details from my first child, the hospital bracelet, maybe even a lock of hair...maybe! With the twins it was all I could do to write down what day or close to it, new milestones that occurred, with Aaron..... all I am really sure about is that at 4 months old he had the chicken pox! What kind of mother am I anyway!!!

What I do know about Aaron, is that from the moment he was born he has been deeply loved by all the "mothers" in this house, and also his father. He refused to stay little long! Being born at 7lbs 9oz. He lost a little weight before we left the hospital. When I went back for his 1st dr. visit, you know, they like to have them back up to birthweight, well he shattered that, weighing in at 9lbs!!! At 2 mo. he was already 26in. which was the max length for his car seat! He has been the most content baby, through all the situations we have had him in. Even with the chicken pox in 90% humidity! He has been a blessing and has completed this family, except for MAYBE a small dog that we MIGHT get WAY down the road when responsibilities can be shared.

Here is a brief look through the fist year of Aaron Paul...

Random

2009-04-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

There is no particular reason for this entry today. No cleverly thought out story to tell, no big event to report on. Just simply writing today for the fact that I CAN!! After almost a year of living here we FINALLY have Internet... No cheesy imitation, like plugging my phone into our computer, or picking up our neighbors very weak wireless signal, providing that he has paid his clear wire account for the month...(don't judge me), I was desperate! Do you know how long it takes to upload pictures that way!
Well my dear family and faithful follower... all things of the past, because yesterday the cable guy became my best friend! I wish I could remember his name, because this act of his deserves recognition!!!

Anyway with all that said, get ready because this blogger can't wait to catch up all that we have been doing!!

Forever

2009-04-01T19:06:00.000-07:00

Olivia has been six for a whole 5 days now. Today it has just sunk in for her that she is growing up.

We put the kids down early tonight and I decided to take this opportunity to play some games on my daughters webkinz account. Real grown up I know, but really I did it for her. She is a big spender and was all out of webkinz cash. So really I am doing what any loving caring mom would do by building the bank, right? Anyway that is beside the point. So while I am raking in big bucks on Cash Cow, I hear crying. My concentration was immediately broke and just like that game over. Somewhat annoyed I head to the weeping sound to figure out what is going on.

Olivia is sitting on the toilet, lid I might add... wiping tears as they continue to roll down her beautiful face, "mommy" she sobs looking up at me. Seeing my irritation she quickly says "never mind". I soften up, sit on the tub and say "what's going on?" In between sobs "Well now that I am six, I can't stop growing and I am almost a grown up... and" big breath "I am going to have to Leee-eeaaa-vvvveeee you!!!"

I scoop up this precious little girl into my arms realizing the moment we are having and hold her close. I say to her "baby you never have to leave" (taking full advantage, I know.) Let's not even think about you leaving until you turn six two more times. In twelve years Olivia, I think you might change your mind."

"Mommy" Olivia says looking up at me, "I will stay with you forever!"

Dance Olivia Dance!

2009-03-26T21:48:00.000-07:00

My dear sweet Olivia,
Tonight I am having one of those moments.... The ones where you wish that time would just hold still. Time however, waits for no one, and in one short hour you my baby, er, um... I mean big girl will be six years old! Has it really been six years?? That once plump little girl has stretched and thinned and I stare at you sometimes and want to say STOP right now, don't change anymore!!!

I have gone through pictures tonight, 6 years worth, and my mind has been flooded with memories and emotions. I was so afraid as a new mommy. I wanted to do everything right. To tell you the truth I am still afraid. I am afraid that you won't know just how much I love you. That maybe I don't tell you enough just how proud I am of you... That I am too hard on you..... That maybe I even don't let you be who you really are...

Olivia you are such a wonderful little woman! Your heart is so tender and so loving. You give so willingly, and so fully. I am so blessed to be your Mommy!! So my dear Princess I made you just a little something for your birthday. A look back from the moment you made this world a better place.

ALL my love!

Mommy

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Spring 'Fever'

2009-03-22T19:03:00.000-07:00

A bad virus has made it's way into our house. Olivia brought it home from school, and thankfully she is not that all bothered by it. Just a runny nose and cough for her, but Paige has also gotten it and it has been a rough couple of days. Continual fevers and congestion so bad she has a slight wheeze. My poor girl, she looked so miserable I just couldn't resist snapping a few shots of her. I was making lunch on Saturday and she just cozied up on the floor so she could be close to me.

Later her fever hit a high of 103.8, her breathing was fast and she seemed so uncomfortable that I felt I would feel a whole lot better if she was looked at by a doctor. Todd gave me the your over-reacting look, but knew I needed the peace of mind. So off we went. Paige cried the entire exam but everything was fine and I was happy to go return home to hear a loving "I told you so." Paige has been sleeping it off, and thankfully today is doing better.

Snip, snip!!

2009-03-01T20:27:00.001-08:00

It was time. Past time really. We had been told one too many times what a darling little girl we have. I don't disagree, we actually have 3 darling little girls, but when they are talking about our only boy, then something has to be done! So Friday we took Aaron in for his first hair cut. Here is a before shot.Here he is getting ready to go.

He did so well holding very still. I had even brought a sucker (just in case), which he held onto but never needed. The ladies loved him!!

Ta-Da!!

I think he feels better about it too! Look at all that self-confidence oozing out of him(along with a little drool)... Dino-mite!!!

Where's the sunshine?

2009-01-17T19:00:00.000-08:00

The one thing I absolutely can't stand in winter is a nasty inversion. We are what, a week plus into this one? I see on the news the pictures from Bogus and it is sunny and 45 and just looks beautiful!!! Let me tell you it's killing me!!!! So today as a nice Sabbath family outing, after loading up on a wonderful meal, we headed up the hill. Just in case your unfamiliar with inversions here is just a shot from the car on the way up. Just nasty no color grey! It was about 34 degrees here in the valley and as we traveled into the clouds it was 25!!! BURRRRR Everything was covered in thick frost.

See. It does make everyting look a little prettier though doesn't it? Right about 5,000 feet we broke out of the clouds and Oh the Sunshine!!! It was so beautiful!

The temperature began to creep up and the sun warmed the car and ooooh it felt SO good! The girls had fun throwing snow and exploring. I could have just stood there and let the sun soak through me the whole time!! Time goes quickly when you are having fun....

It was a great day, however all good things must come to an end, sigh.

S-T-I-RRRRR-I-K-E!!!!!

2009-01-15T20:05:00.000-08:00

With all this cold weather, we have been a lot more home bound than we like. So a couple weeks ago Todd had a great idea, Let's go Bowling!!! Well it sounds like fun I thought but what about Aaron he goes to bed at 7, and will Paige and Claire even be able to do it?, What about the smoke? See I always try to plan out any difficulties that we 'may' encounter, and avoid them at all costs. It's the mom of 4 coming out of me, something I am going to work on in 2009. Sure it's good to think ahead, but I can't let it keep me from doing things all the time. We decided what the heck let's just go and have fun. The Bowling Ally we went to was smoke free!! We set up the pack and play right there next to us, Aaron hung out while we all had a ball! It took us quite a LONG time to play one game. The girls would get up there and roll that ball and it would take 3-5 minutes (no joke) to make it all the way down the ally! After the clerk had to come and fetch a few balls that didn't make it, he brought over a slide. The girls loved it!!! Paige got 2 strikes and 2 spares to win the game with 139! I don't know that I have EVER scored that high. Despite the loss it was a great night and well worth it! Here are a few more shots from our night out...

Twas the night before Christmas....

2008-12-30T10:23:00.000-08:00

...and all through the house, all the Bakers were gathered together at last. The cooking was finished and all the presents were wrapped. The children were bright eyed and ready for cheer in hopes that opening presents soon would be near.

Paige and Uncle Rob admiring the tree

Todd and his brother Brian deep in conversation

Olivia and Jessie playing with new toys

Michael on the move

Later that evening at home we tucked the kiddies in and then Todd and I went to play in the snow. We had so much fun making a snowman.

Then we got busy making our house ready for Christmas morning.

Merry Christmas!

Let it snow!

2008-12-23T07:29:00.000-08:00

We sure have been enjoying all the snow that has been falling! Nothing says Christmas like snow! I don't mind driving in it and I say if it is going to be cold we may as well have snow! Everything becomes quiet and beautiful. Our faces have been pressed against the windows as we watch excitedly. I felt like a little girl again. I was watching the snow fall and as it fell harder and fatter flakes I ran from room to room telling everyone "look now, now look, doesn't it look pretty, don't you love it!!" We have been busy making snow angels, sledding and trying to make this powdery snow form a ball!! Here are a few photo's from the fun....

Early Christmas

2008-12-21T07:03:00.000-08:00

My Dad Kirt arranged a family lunch yesterday. All the local family gathered together after church to have a Christmas meal. He said this was the only time that he could give my mom her Christmas gift and he wanted us all present. He was making a pretty big deal about this gift. Saying things like "Sandra(my aunt) you are going to cry" , "it's time all the Medrano's got together". Even my Auntie Elva came! (which is a big deal) Well Friday night I was trying to figure out this surprise. I was sure that I had. It had to be that he had flown my Grandma in!!! I was so certain. When we arrived at my mom's Kirt told all of us "no one goes up stairs till I say so" I smiled, so sure my grandma was up there...

I was wrong. While I wish that it had been my Grandma I am so excited about the gift that my mom did receive. Weighing all of 1 lb. or so and covered in hair, here she is....

She had a big first day in our family. I am not sure her feet touched the ground for more than 30 minutes. When we took her outside in the freezing cold she would sit and lift her back legs off of the cement and shiver till you took her back inside! She is just precious, and my mom is thrilled. Her name is Sophie.

Glow

2008-12-10T20:58:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to go to the Botanical Garden-a-glow! The first time we tried was 6 years ago on our Anniversary, they were closed. I am not even sure what happened all the other years in between then and now. It doesn't really matter anyway. Tonight though we were treated to the beautiful twinkling lights, a Christmas choir, hot chocolate, cider and cookies. Thank-you Mom and Dad for the wonderful night. The kids loved it, and were asleep about 5 minutes into the car ride home. Nothing like a night like this to put you in the Christmas spirit! Now all we need is snow which I understand is coming! Now if only I was done with all my shopping. Merry Christmas everybody!!!

And he's off!!!!!

2008-11-18T13:42:00.000-08:00

I think we can mark it down as official! This morning my precious baby demonstrated his skills on all fours! After much hard work of sliding, scootching, and rolling He has traded it in for crawling!! I am so proud and a bit terrified too. Here are a couple shots of him in action.

They grow too fast....

Oh boy

2008-10-28T13:40:00.001-07:00

The other man in my life....

Shhhh......

Don't tell Todd... :)

Because I'm a princess....

2008-10-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

From the moment Claire opens her eyes in the morning, she has one thing on her mind. Where is my princess dress? Or the Baker dress as she calls it, because in our house 'B' is for Baker not Barbi! She runs to the toy basket pulls it out and it's on over the pj's. Secure the crown in place and quick the mermaid shoes! Which I might add make the LOUDEST noise on the wood floor. It could give anyone a headache. She knows that if she is not careful mom will take the shoes away. She will be running through the house but as soon as she hits that wood floor it's up on tiptoes till she clears it!!! I just have to laugh every time I hear this. Paige is not quite as fanatical as Claire when it comes to the dresses. This only means that sometimes she plays the roll of the King and Kings don't wear dresses silly. I have found that they love these dresses so much that they will do whatever I ask(70.3% of the time) rather than run the risk of losing the dress for the rest of the day. The day I discovered this I felt I had made it to the winners circle. Victory is so sweet! Thank-you Auntie Laura for the best presents 2 three year olds could have asked for and for the power over nap time that a mom never thought she'd have!

By the way that's Claire in the pink glasses, in case you didn't guess it!

Broken Promises

2008-10-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

I have never been great at keeping a journal. I take that back in 6th grade I had one that I wrote to my crush and every day it went something like Dear Crush,Today blah blah blah. I am not joking it was the only one I ever finished. He did however become my boyfriend for one week, maybe two. I sure had a big crush on him, but the moment we crossed into the public announcement of 'I like you', I could not be alone with him. I was great in a group, but he'd say hey come walk with me and I was like no thanx!! Anyway I guess he was looking for more.

I have had many other journals that I started, and I would be great for the first week and then the entries would begin to grow further and further apart. When I had my first child I took out the beautiful leather bound journal given to us as an engagement gift and began to write a journal dedicated to her. Here I would record all the memories and special moments we had together, one page is all that I wrote!! I took that same journal with us to Belize so I could record our adventure. Nothing! You get my point I am sure.

Anyway, When we returned to the U.S. this summer I went through sort of a rough spot in my faith. I know what you must be thinking. Coming home from a mission experience weak in faith?? How does that happen... Well sort of like this.

I was so excited to go out and serve God, and to be the best Christian that I could be. I wanted to be different than I was before and to do all the "right" things. I wanted to live the faith that I felt, and to teach my children to do the same. Leaving this country and culture seemed the best way. God led us in every decision that we made and I still believe that He took us to Belize. However, what I didn't realize is that God's way of doing things is often different than what we think He will do. Basically I went to Belize feeling like a "good" Christian. I came home feeling like a hypocrite. I wanted to love being there, to be selfless, and to be happy in all situations. Then when things with the property fell through and we came home early I came home feeling like a failure. I didn't know how to face anyone. I felt that I had an image to deliver, and I sure did my best to try and deliver it. I kept praying for God to be real to me, because somewhere along my walk in faith I hadn't realized that I was walking alone. I had come to this point and didn't even know my Jesus. I felt depressed and just wanted to go somewhere where people didn't know me.

One day my husband took me up in the hills near our house and I shared all this with him. I told him I wasn't sure if I even wanted to keep going to church anymore. My husband encouraged me to look back on my spiritual life and figure out what was I doing when I was closest to God. I thought for a while and soon realized that it was when I was keeping a prayer journal. I would read in my bible and then write about the verses I read and pray through them and sing. In those times I felt as if Jesus was right next to me. I could envision leaning my head on His shoulder and knew He was right there. But like all times in the past the entries got fewer and then stopped. Well that evening my husband took me to the store and I got a new notebook and some gel pens. I was set, ready to start again.

Whew, ready here we go, the point of this post at last! I began that journal beginning of September. Here we are nearing the end of October and my entries are getting further apart. As I was writing yesterday I felt I needed to share my entry so here it is...

October 20, 2008

My biggest lapse yet. I've slowed down in my morning devotionals too. However I had a realization one morning this past week. It was a morning when I slept in promising God, "don't worry I'll still make time for you today" Well here it was mid-morning and I was busy with a mountain of laundry, thinking ahead to the dishes in the sink that were waiting for me, when I realized that I was going bad on my end of the deal again! I checked on the twins who were dressed in yes you guessed it their pink cheer outfits and nicely playing Barbi's, and Aaron was sleeping. I went into my room and closed the door and knelt by my bed. Lately before I pray I find have to "get in the zone" before I begin, otherwise I will quickly ramble off one of my eloquent well rehearsed prayers that seem to never get past the ceiling. For me "getting in the zone" is slowing down, not rushing, envisioning myself coming into God's throne room. To remind myself that I have the privilege of being in front of the God who made me, who commanded this world into existence and who knows my thoughts before they escape my lips. This helps me to be real with God. Anyway, I sat there by my bed and tried to explain to God why I didn't show up and why I was going to do better and then it hit me. I am not going to do better, and more often then keep my promises with Him I will break them. Not because I want to, but because I am so deeply flawed. Tears began falling down my face and I began to feel so ashamed. I cried to God "why do you even bother with me?" A very clear thought or should I say song, came into my head . God told me to sing it. I did.

"who am I that the Lord of all the earth would care to know my name, would care to feel my hurt, who am I that the bright and morning star would choose to light the way for my ever wandering heart."

The song goes on and in the chorus it says

"but you told me who I am, I am yours"

Then God whispered "I choose you"

I was humbled in that moment and there was nothing to do but weep. Weep in the realization that there is nothing that I can ever do that will be enough for my God, and to cry for the man who hung on the cross for me and my sin, knowing that I would never be good enough. I have never felt such love than I did in that moment, and I don't even recall being that aware of what God did for me so very long ago. For all of us Thank-you Lord for speaking to me in that way. And you know what else? Even though I will never measure up I will continue to try. I will try because I have never been loved so deeply, and so unconditionally that I can't help but love back and try to do my best.

So there you have it. I hope that there is at least one person who reads this and feels the love of a God who is waiting to pour out his blessing on you. Be blessed.

Home Sweet Home!

2008-10-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

Ah yes, there she is in all her 1,000 sq ft of glory! This is what we have come to call home. We are happy here, loving the quite street we live on, the nice neighbors, the spacious yard, and the quick walk into downtown. Here are a few more shots of our place...

The driveway, exciting I know!

Here is the back yard

and beyond this fence we call it our "back 40" We hope to put in a large garden in this spring.

The girls LOVE being outside, and I love them being outside! They each have a tire swing compliments of Grandma Pat! (thank-you) They love the trampoline! And they love, love, love picking all the pretty yellow dandelions for me!

Here is my cute little kitchen. Notice the state of the art dishwasher....

What's that you don't see it, let me zoom in for you... There she is!

I am finding that I spend a good part of my day here and will never take for granted that beautiful machine called the dishwasher again!

Thankfully, we do have a washer and a dryer, but from time to time when it's warm it's nice to get outside and hang some laundry!

So this is home for us! Come visit sometime.

Play Date

2008-10-12T21:02:00.000-07:00

We dropped in on some long-time friends of ours tonight. The Shaltry's. Huda and I were pregnant together this last time around. She was due mid March and I was due just 3 short weeks after her. She went early, I went late and our little ones ended up 5 weeks apart. We have gotten together only a hand full of times since the birth of our little ones, but really need to do it more. Here is a photo of our two little ones (if you can call mine little). Naema is so cute, she has this high pitch, and I mean high, squeal. She was so taken with Aaron and would just squeal, and smile, and grab at him. Here are a few more shots of them playing...

SO precious, it was great. Naema is going to be a tough one you can tell. No one will pull a fast one on her. She made sure Aaron knew his place....

And once again Aaron knew what to do.

To blog or not to blog

2008-10-12T20:13:00.000-07:00

That is the question, and being that I am writing a post, I gather you know my answer. I have gone back and forth on whether or not to continue a blog since our return to the U.S. Not that I don't want to it's just that I don't really have the time. I still don't have the time it's just that such great things happen as a mom of 4, and I've got to write them down somewhere. Why not share them here with you?

So today I captured a moment with my 4 beautiful children. Aaron was sitting on the floor playing and Paige found his brush and came over to him and was so sweetly brushing his hair and talking with him. I quickly grabbed the camera and tried to hide in order to get a candid shot.

I got one good shot and then she saw me... Something happens to my girls once they are aware that the camera is on them...

Not only did Paige see me but Olivia did too, not being one to miss out on a picture she quickly joined in...

Then Claire saw me...

Poor Aaron you could almost here the music "Beauty School Drop Out" playing while my girls primed and trimmed on him!!!

So this will probably be the life of a lone little boy who will grow up surrounded by 3 big sisters who are very much "girly girls". I am sure you can tell just how girly they are sporting their pink Barbi cheer dresses and crown. Yes, they wear them EVERY day! Please don't feel bad for Aaron though he knows how to stick up for himself...