Life is but a Scream!

Self Manager

2012-01-14T11:15:00.000-08:00

What does it take to be a self-manager?
You have to be safe, respectful, responsible and follow the rules of the school. Your reading, your writing, your ELD(English Language Development) and your Home Room Teacher all need to sign off on your behavior.

Once you are a self manager, you get to:
Help the teacher
Get in line first on PE Days
Get a drink in the back of the classroom during study time
Go to the bathroom without a pass(You still have to ask the teacher though)
Help pass out papers
Erase the board when the teacher says

Leila tried really hard last year to be awarded a self-manager badge and did not get it. This year she did and is very pleased with herself. We are too.

Good Job Leila!

Childrens Museum

2012-01-14T11:02:00.002-08:00

While Uncle Chris was in town over Christmas Break, the Conser Cousins met up with him at the Portland Childrens Museum! We had a grand time! Thanks Uncle for playing with us!

It was fun to have Grandma Conser, Aunt Tamara and cousins Carina and Logan with us too!

Pics from Dec. 28, 2011

Nathan's Surgery

2012-01-14T11:02:00.000-08:00

Nathan had surgery back on Jan. 3rd. I will spare details as its a sensitive topic of a private area and I don't want to embarrass the little guy. But lets just say with all the anxiety he had going into the surgery, he sure got a lot out of it.

He had a nurse who explained everything to him. The first thing she told him after her name was that she would not be giving him any shots. He was glad to hear that. He felt pretty good by the time they wheeled him down the hall.

As his parents we felt a lot calmer. It was a much easier surgery than Kathryn's. We know and trusted Dr. Lashley(Same urologist who operated on Kathryn). And Nathan was so much older is was easier in a way to be able to explain things to him. He really liked his anthesia, it was hard to wake him up! Big surprise there, right?

He is a sweet boy-- he got a new bear, a new 49ers pillow case, and a really cool race track! Plus he was doted on and loved on like crazy.

We love you little man. Glad you are feeling better.

Good Bye 2011! Welcome 2012!

2012-01-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

The real questions are: Will Leila be as tall as her mother by the end of 2012? Will Nathan get a pair of glasses that won't break the first week he has them? Will Kathryn ever let me put her hair up again?

Happy New Year Friends and Family!

Mommy Kissed Santa Last Night

2011-12-25T12:10:00.000-08:00

And I think the kids had a great Christmas Morning!

We all received cozy jammies!

Before the mayhem...

I wonder if he really came?

I think I see somthing!

OH WOW! Just what I wanted!

Me too!

Oh Elmo! I lub you!

Presents Open!

Happy Children Playing(No Fighting!)

Looks like Santa Dumped his Sleigh!

We LOVE YOU CONSER KIDS!

Its hard to take pics of three littles

2011-12-24T12:37:00.000-08:00

Another Birthday!

2011-12-06T04:29:00.000-08:00

Nathan had trouble going to sleep last night. He was just too excited about his birthday. He was hoping we might give him a gift before school? I told him that was completely silly since we bought him new shoes on Saturday and Daddy bought him the Transformer Movie on Saturday too that Mommy actually let him watch on Sunday. So he has already "opened" a couple of gifts-- right?

Anyway, I told him I completely understood. Seven years ago last night I was getting ready for bed knowing I would be going into the hospital to be induced the next day. I had some trouble sleeping too because of excitment!

Happy Birthday Little Man!

We sure love you!

Muppet TIME!

2011-11-26T08:25:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me, knows my love of the Muppet's! We had a grand time out yesterday to see my old friends, and the movie was amazing! We all gave it several thumbs up!

"Life's like a movie, write your own ending.

Keep believing, keep pretending."

- Jim Henson

Turkey Day 2011!

2011-11-24T20:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving From the Conser Turkey's!

Unloading the Dishwasher is FUN!

2011-11-16T06:39:00.000-08:00

Nathan was proud of his work!

Leila needed some credit too-- she put the cinnamon containor on the very top!

Whatever it takes to get some help around here!

New Baby Logan

2011-11-06T08:43:00.000-08:00

Our sweet little nephew is HERE!

Welcome Logan!

6 lbs 6 oz 19 inches long

11-02-2011

Nov. 5th, 2011

2011-11-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

Our sweet Leila was baptized as a member The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Congratulations Big Girl! Thanks to our amazing friends and family who joined us in supporting our girls decision of baptism. We have so much support and love in raising our children, its quite a blessing.

Halloween Night!

2011-10-31T17:29:00.000-07:00

When witches go riding, and black cats are seen

the moon laughs and whispers, 'tis near Halloween.

-19th century Halloween postcard

My Dark Princess, My Kitty Kat, and my Scooby Dooby

Doooo. Happy Halloween my Sweet Babies.

Beautiful Sunshiney Fall Day

2011-10-30T16:46:00.000-07:00

Remembering

2011-10-25T06:07:00.000-07:00

Remembering what we were going through a year ago--- hardly seems like it happened at all. But it was sure traumatic when it did.

http://mconser.blogspot.com/2010/10/bilateral-ureteral-reimplantation.html

http://mconser.blogspot.com/2010/10/kathryn-surgery-pics.html

We have an ultra sound set up for the end of November. Since Kathryn has had no issues, I fully expect them telling us how amazing she is and that we never have to see Dr. Lashly again.

The Pumpkin Patch!

2011-10-22T17:28:00.000-07:00

Being a traditionalist, when I first had kids I assumed we would stick to the same pumpkin patch each year. I changed my mind when you drive several miles out into the country and see some different and cute set up.

This year was Jeremy's choice of Sauvies Island. He has fond memories of hunting pumpkins here during his childhood. We went on a beautiful fall day with our good friends The Daley's, and Grandma Conser and Cousin Carina joined us as well.

Add caption

A very nice day was had by all!

There is always planning and prepping when it comes time for the carving.

The Finished Product: Three little Pumpkins, and their pumpkins.

ALMOST...

2011-10-12T16:30:00.000-07:00

This baby makes me ALMOST want to do it again....

Thankfully I have a new nephew coming in a few weeks (YAY!)... and two dear friends that I am doing nice things for and billing them in baby holding time.... (They may not realize that yet, but I am keeping very close track).

Thank you other mothers of the world for having babies for those of us who are done! You are very kind.

Parenting 101

2011-10-06T15:04:00.000-07:00

Having had my first two children very close together provided me a lot of challenges. Not being the most patient mom around combined with a quick temper resulted in a home with a lot of yelling and crying, by all family members. As the years have gone by and the children have learned better to reason, I too have learned more patience and calmness in dealing with them. Things got a little crazy with a sick baby last year, but I do have to sit back and give myself some credit that I have grown significantly in the area of parenting. I still have a long way to go, but I do believe, with help, I will continue to be a better Mom.

One day at church several years ago we were sitting in a lesson when a lady, whose children are all grown and married, mentioned that she had struggled with her anger as a young Mom. She said we are not doomed to stay that way, we simply need to go to our peers and ask them how they handle situations. Seek out someone you admire and get advice. That was almost too easy.

I thought a lot about the Mom's I see that instead of yelling at their kids, quietly take them aside and discuss an issue at hand. I thought of the Mom's that truly smiled at their children and praised them for even the tiny accomplishments the children would boast about. I thought about the Mom's that took the time to teach their children life lessons, such as how to be independent, or self sufficient, instead of doing it for them.

I have a lot of Mom's that I want to be like. I am blessed that I can call many of them and ask them a very broad and general question and they take it upon themselves to mull it over in their minds and get back to me with amazing advice. It might not always work for my family, but the fact I have people who take the time to give me feedback on how to raise my precious children is simply priceless.

Some pictures need no discription....

2011-09-26T11:55:00.000-07:00

Ocean in view! O! The joy!

2011-09-25T19:08:00.000-07:00

Jeremy and I had the chance to get away for a bit last week thanks to both of our dear mothers supporting us in our desires! 10 years married seems like quite the milestone-- even more when you consider we have been together 3 more on top of that.

We left on Monday after Sue and I had a fun time at Zumba. Then we left her with a screaming Kathryn and a page of instructions. I felt a little dismayed when I realized my life's work could be summarized on one page.

We drove up to Astoria first and had lunch at our favorite place: Wet Dog Cafe. We walked clear down to see where the sea lions took over some docks. Then we headed up the coast, stopped and got some snacks, red box and checked into our hotel. We swam and hot-tubed. We called our kids. Life was great. When we woke up the next morning at 8:15 we were both surprised we had slept in so very late for parents standards!

Tuesday we went to breakfast at Benson's by the Sea- they have amazing breakfast and the owner herself served us. Then we walked over to the Free Marsh Museum where we saw all sorts of goodies and grossies. We walked a bit on the beach and headed back to the hotel to pack up some snacks and water and went to explore Cape Disappointment. To say we were not disappointed is the truth! We sincerely couldn't have asked for better weather. The hiking was wonderful and the wildlife viewing was supreme. Back to the hotel for some swimming and hot-tubing and then we walked into town for a bite to eat.

Weds. we slept in again-- this time only until about 8, and we took our time getting ready. We had breakfast again at Benson's. This day we split an order of French toast-- pretty amazing stuff(We saw it on our way from the day before and knew we had to go back!!!). Then we explore a bit more around long beach before heading back home. We had a daughter waiting for us with hives, another one we needed to get to dance, both older kids needed homework help. But hey-- that is just the way it is after 10 years marriage-- right?

I really think I could be an awesome photographer if I had a kick-butt camera. Anyone feel like donating to my cause?

Long Beach, Washington
September 19-22, 2011

Club Sandwich Generation(A post about Alzheimer's)

2011-09-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

I have been hearing about the "Sandwich Generation" for a while now. A generation of people who care for their aging parents while supporting their own children. I was reading some materials online and found the term: Club Sandwich Generation: those in their 50s or 60s, sandwiched between aging parents, adult children and grandchildren. OR those in their 30s and 40s, with young children, aging parents and grandparents. This feels more like me and my situation(I am only in my 30's- yo!). Plus I like bacon, and isn't bacon usually on a club?

Today I met with a social worker at my parents home to discuss how she can lend her support to our family, give an objective point of view and provide valuable resources to us in this time of my parents needs. My family needs help to evaluate my Dad's needs and where he is at in his current and upcoming stage of Alzheimer's. My Mom needs help to understand how she can best support him. She also needs help on how to get the help she needs to keep herself healthy and strong.

I sat with my 2 1/2 year old on my lap and looked across the room at my Mom in her rocker with her cute dog on her lap, and my sweet Dad on the couch next to her silently listening. He would catch me looking at him and wink. It made me smile. Made me think of some level he knew we were trying to help him. We love him so much. We respect him and care about him so deeply. I think to some degree I always knew I would be happy to help with my "aging" parents. I just never expected to be helping with them while my children are so very young still. This wasn't supposed to happen for another 20 years.

Of course, my dismay is nothing compared the dismay my parents must be feeling. They had many dreams and goals for after retirement that will never be achieved. Their hearts definitely ache more than mine. My mom has lost a huge part of her life; she has lost her companion and the dearest friend she has ever known.

Its been an interesting process this summer. My Mom and I met with an estate attorney so we can make sure we have all things financial in order in the event Dad needs to go into a home sooner rather than later(as the doc seems to think he will). This attorney gave Mom valuable information on how to set up her will and affairs. She let us know specifics of the Oregon laws to better protect herself and her assets so she won't be a burden on the community when Dad's monthly housing costs will be very expensive. This attorney also gave us a referral to the social worker we met with today.

We still have so much to go through. The road in front of us is still very rocky and hard to see. But there are days when I feel better prepared and that can help me feel calmer. I have to take on Alzheimer's on a day-by-day basis-- sometimes an hour-by-hour basis and remember the Man inside my Dad. He is still there somewhere. And he raised me to love my family and others, no matter their disabilities.

To my friends who are my parents age(And I have many of you): Please get regular check ups. Don't let Alzheimer's slip in before its too late. They have drugs that can slow and virtually stop the progression if they can catch it early enough! They find Alzheimer's on a brain scan such as an MRI. I have a number of resources of doctors, attorney, and now social workers that I would be happy to share.

To my friends who have parents going through this, or starting to go through this: You are not alone. You have the ability to be a very big support person to your parents right now. Keep an eye on the symptoms of Alzheimer's. (http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_know_the_10_signs.asp) And don't be afraid to voice your concerns to your parents. Even if they get defensive, if you are doing it in love, how much can your parents really hold it against you?

To Friends of Friends who are going through this: Just listen and love. Even if you had a distant relative or even a grandparent, its not the same as a parent. To loose a family member, but have to deal with them on a consistent basis in ways that are not charming or respectful, and sometimes abusive is extremely painful. We need our friends just to love us. You give us the strength and the fodder to keep smiling.

Happy 10th!

2011-09-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

Happy 10th Anniversary Sweetheart!
It hasn't always been easy, but it has always been interesting.
I am grateful for our committment to eachother. You have been a sweet companion and a good friend. I am glad we are hanging on to eachother, even when there have been times it would have been easier to let go.
I love you.

Sept. 6th, 2011- 1st and 2nd Grade

2011-09-06T21:32:00.000-07:00

Nathan did NOT want his picture taken. He wasn't too excited about school, except he enjoyed his and my tradition of going and getting donuts and "Every Day A Donut Day!" It was a gorgeous morning to start school.

As is tradition, we walked down. Nathan, still bent out of shape about the photo above, didn't want me to walk him to school. He said: I am in 1st grade now. I don't need you to walk me to class, besides, I want to play outside on the playground.

Leila enjoyed her walk with her Daddy. She was excited, but a little nervous. In her hand is a picture she made for me that she kept with her all day for comfort.

At school, suddenly Nathan seemed glad we were with him. But actually, both kids felt more comfortable than they have in previous years.

Nate got a little overwhelmed picking out his seat(He has a hard time making decisions). But was happy once he settled in.

Leila sat right down with her friend Jordyn from Girl Scouts and was happy to start working. Kathryn got a little sad to leave them.

Dad went off to work, and I CELEBRATED!

I have no idea how in the world I am going to entertain this little girl though.... but the "low-grade fighting" was a welcome subtraction from the house. At least until 3:00. ;O>

8 is Great!

2011-09-04T23:59:00.000-07:00

Sept. 4th marks the Day when Jeremy and I became parents! What a wonderful and blessed day that was!

I always tell Leila that in the months before having her I would have very vivid dreams of her. I especially liked the dream when they would bring her to me the first time and our eyes would meet. I always tell her when that happened, it was my biggest dream come true.

Leila is very excited to be 8! She said on the way to church she was starting to feel like an eight-year-old. She is very kind and compassionate, always want to help out those who aren't feeling well. She is sassy and wants what she wants, but she knows what is right and always makes the right choices.

We had a very laid back picnic with our family and some friends at a local park. The kids had a blast and Leila enjoyed herself immensely. Thanks to everyone who supports and loves Leila. Thanks to everyone who supports and loves Jeremy and I and helps us to be better parents to this amazing little big girl!

We love you our BIG GIRL! So glad to have you in our family!

Move Over Buzz...

2011-09-01T09:31:00.000-07:00

....Here comes RED!

Another Point of Huggin'

2011-08-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

Thursday we went to hug point again with friends! It was forecast to be 70 and cloudy, but not rainy, so we went for it.

Only it didn't get to 70. High was 64 I think? Brrr... but we made the best of it and had a good and sandy time. Erica even made a fire! FUN TIMES!

**All photos lovingly ripped off from Erica's blog.... thanks Erica- so glad to create such fun memories with you....

http://jnesorenson.blogspot.com/

Fort Clatsop

2011-07-27T06:35:00.000-07:00

Before Hug Point, we went to Fort Clatsop on the coast. It was pretty neat. The kids were very anxious to get to the beach, but they humored us and allowed us some education time.

They rebuilt a fort that Lewis and Clark lived in. The Rangers were dressed in time period wear. I thought it was cool, the kids were a little nervous. The older kids were, Kathryn loved it.

We got there in time for the games and recreation time when we played with actual toys and things the kids/adult men played with while there.

Then we went on a beautiful walk following the Lewis and Clark River. It was a mile out and a mile back in. The mile back in gave me a sleeping Kathryn in my arms, so I felt my exercise was earned that day!

The kids took some photos-

Nathan took this photo- all I can say is: What a boy!

I love this shot- Leila took it. Its so interesting I think I might enlarge it and frame it.

Hug Point

2011-07-24T11:04:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a Sunny Saturday at the beach- No jackets required!

What a great day to spend as a family on our BEAUTIFUL OREGON COAST!

SEND JULIE TO JAPAN!

2011-07-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Julie is going to JAPAN!

She is joining forces with Mormon Helping Hands, a church sponsored disaster relief volunteer service tour. Being a missionary who served not only in Japan, but in the direct area that was hit so hard by this disaster, she was invited to join them in their efforts to give aid where it is still needed. She decided that anything worth doing, is worth putting a little, or a lot, of effort into.

Julie is an amazing woman! She is a mother of 7 and raises her children with love and logic. She is a great example to me on how I want to be a mother.

Someone asked me why I would support a country that has one of the top 3 economies when there are 3rd world countries suffering, and while our own country is suffering. That is a good point, however, plain and simple the people of Japan still need help. And I PERSONALLY want to help my friend. I like to think one of my greatest talents is being a good friend. I will support those I love in their quest to do good in this world.

She is raising money in the form of a cookbook and by asking for donations. As her friend, I am asking for your help too. Please feel free to help in anyway you see fit: Donation, prayers, or an encouraging word or two!

GOOD LUCK JULIE! I LOVE YOU!

Here is her website- look for a little button(JULIE YOU NEED TO MAKE IT MORE NOTICEABLE) on the right column.

http://hessesmadhouse.blogspot.com/

Cake.... and cupcakes....

2011-07-17T23:33:00.000-07:00

My amazing neighbor and friend Erica took on the task of making my sister's wedding cake last week. WOW! She felt very confident when she accepted the job, but started doubting her abilities and skills as the wedding date loomed. I was stressing along with her, but I kept cheering her on and was fortunate to see her in action, and like to think I even helped(by giving advice) a teeny-tiny-bit!

Erica was successful and handed me a perfect and beautiful cake on Saturday Morning. She said: I am placing this in your hands now. YIKES! I carried the cake on my lap with the AC on the whole way. And it was beautiful- the Bride LOVED it and it got rave reviews by all those who saw it.

Great job Erica!

We were concerned the cake wasn't big enough, so we(OK, Erica) did a side dish of cupcakes. Everyone, including the bride loved these little guys! All the kids wanted them long before the ceremony started(Kathryn tried to sneak one before the ceremony started. Thankfully, mommy was watching and saved the cupcake!).

Isn't life always better with cake... or its little sister... the cupcake?

Wedding of the YEAR!

2011-07-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

Jeremy's sister, Tamara, got married on Saturday to Matt. It was definitely the wedding of the year. Our family was not part of the wedding, but we sure had fun getting dressed up and going all out to look our best!

A little Sisterly Chat

My Handsome Boys

Daddy!

Turn Around Bright Eyes!

My Girls! Kathryn, Carina, Leila

Me and my Big Girl!

All the Conser Men!

The wedding took place at Multnomah Falls. It rained, it sunned- but honestly I felt it was a perfect day to get married. Congrats to Mr. And Mrs. Hensley!

The Bride looking at her Groom.... and she said: I Do!

Happy Birthday Jeremy!

2011-07-11T22:01:00.000-07:00

Swim! July 2011

2011-07-08T21:37:00.000-07:00

The kids LOVE swim lessons this summer! They are lucky to be in the same class, and I haven't seen them fight once... in class!

Well, two of the kids LOVE swim. The third wishes she was swimming too and has a rough time watching.

We were SOOOOOOO LUCKY to have Whitney, our dear friend from church, be our kids teacher! She rocks the house, has been to college for a year, and was a Girl Scout through her Sr. year of HS!

OK... so life watching is better with snacks...

And Mommy One on One Time....

Here are my fishies!

Park Days

2011-07-08T20:47:00.000-07:00

This summer has provided us a number of park days. I am pretty sad to say I usually don't have a camera, but I happened to catch a few photos on this trip!!

July 4th, 2011

2011-07-04T21:33:00.000-07:00

Random Thankfulness

2011-07-03T09:04:00.000-07:00

* dimples

     *laughter with good friends

          *funny memories

                *late nights at winco

      *excuses for dressy dresses & new shoes

*snuggles

     *warm, sheet only nights

          *pandora

               *chocolate

                    *morning birds singing

*automated prescription refills

     *safe home

          *happy hearts

                *a beautiful, God-given, God-created world

Wake Up Calls

2011-06-26T08:14:00.000-07:00

I have had a lot of wake-up calls lately. My whole house has actually. I am not going to share them, for fear of major judgement, but, I am hoping this means I am better prepared for the future. I am hoping this means I will listen to that voice that tells me to MOVE and I will get up and move right away, not wait to hear it a second time. I am hoping I have woken up and will be better at responding to my environment.

Things have been going well. I feel like I am handling life well, and despite my various issues, I am feeling very confident in my skills as a Mother, Wife, and Friend. But a few things here and there remind me that what I have is very special, and what I have has the potential of being fleeting. It could all change at any moment. I know full well that what I have is very precious and I need to cherish and value it as much as possible.

First Day of SUMMER!

2011-06-22T10:57:00.000-07:00

Happy First Day of SUMMER!

Imagine that! We had a day with temps over 80*! Almost unheard of for a June Oregon Day, let alone the 1st day of summer!!

Can you spot all three?

This is JOY!

This is PURE JOY!

You may remember my post from last year:

http://mconser.blogspot.com/2010/06/summer-lovin.html

Or the year before that:

http://mconser.blogspot.com/2009/07/summer-fun.html

Looks like I am making a tradition!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T06:14:00.000-07:00

2011
We Love You Daddy!

Graduations

2011-06-17T22:00:00.000-07:00

My oldest niece Adrienne graduated last year from High School.

My second old niece Britlee graduated this year.

Sigh... makes me feel old. My little Nephew Jacob(who isn't little and taller than me) graduates next year!

And my youngest niece Carina graduated this year from Pre-school. Good luck next year in Kindergarten! Can't wait to see your future!

What a lucky Aunt I am!

Last Day of Scool Celebration!

2011-06-16T22:52:00.000-07:00

I am sure if you have been around the Conser home for the last year or so you have heard the discussion of the "Big Top Cupcake". My kids saw the commercial and were relentless with their pleas to get us one! A Big Top Cupcake is basically two cake pans, one in the shape of a cupcake bottom, and one in the shape of a cupcake top- you use one cake mix to bake one.

Fingers showing their new grade!

SO- my gift to the kids was a BTC Party! I made them each their very own Big Top! Nathan was thrilled- he told me he was going to smoosh his face into his! That he did- check it out:

Leila's last week of school was good- except she was pretty sick. She stayed home her last Friday and her last Monday. Party in Reading(which is watching a movie-- how many movies do they watch that last week?) was on Tuesday so she refused my taking her temperature. She went and had fun. Wednesday night she was up in the middle of the night with ear pain. I got her drops and got her back to sleep. The next day, Thursday(last day), around 11:30 I get a call from her teacher. Leila had been crying the past two hours, but was refusing to go to the office because she didn't want to leave school early. So I dropped Kathryn off at my neighbors(thanks Erica!) and went down to talk to her. She decided she didn't feel good enough to stay and it was OK if she went home, they had a little party(They watched a movie- the latest ice age). So we got a frosty and she napped all afternoon. Poor sweetheart. She asked me if she would still get her very own Big Top since she came home from school early. I said: Absolutely! You finished 1st grade, even if you came home early on the last day!

End of the School Year

2011-06-15T05:52:00.000-07:00

Wow! Another year down! And what a year!

The kids had a performance back in may- the 1st graders and Kindergartners join together for a show for their parents. Leila tried-out for a Spanish speaking part and got it! She was thrilled and worked very hard on memorizing her part. She was super excited to wear a pretty dress to school(They performed for the school in the afternoon) and after performance for the parents in the evening we celebrated(with many other students who had the same bright idea) at DQ for a little something sweet and cold! Of course Nathan grumbled the whole way to the evening performance(DQ being used as a reward really) because he already did a performance for that day and he just didn't understand why he had to do another one. Sorry buddy-- Mommy needs to see cute little you.

Here are my stars:
Video 1- Leila and her speaking part(Why they paired her up with the shortest girl in 1st grade... I am not sure)

Video #2: going to the zoo zoo zoo, how about you you you-- Leila is in front- Nathan is on the top back row with the red polo next to the tallest boy. Its hard to see.

The kids both did amazing this year. Nathan's initial problem was too much "chit-chat", but he figured it out. Leila's reading was off to a hard start, but they figured it out and she got into the right level and excelled. Here is Nathan with his teachers(I didn't get Leila with hers!). We love that in the Two Way Immersion Program my kids will follow each other and we are getting to know their teachers really well. And Leila's teachers have been able to watch Nathan and are excited to have him the next year.

I seriously can't believe I will have a 1st and 2nd grader next year! Way to go Conser Kids!

Me and My Big Girl

2011-06-12T12:21:00.000-07:00

Dasiy Day - June 4, 2011

Leila and I are having a blast with Girl Scouts. I am not sure I am such a good leader. Thankfully the other people in the girl scout organization are very patient with me. And the other Mom's in our troop are amazing and I am so glad I am getting to know them better. There are a few more rules and regulations that I want to follow... and a few too many deadlines I can't seem to keep straight. But like I said, so far everyone has been nice and have let me make things work, even when they probably shouldn't have. Its for our girls though... they are worth it.

Brook, Peyton, Jordyn, Leila, Alora
Troop #45507

I love my little troop. And its been really good for Leila and I.

I love my big girl! Can't wait to see what her future holds!

As good as it gets....

2011-06-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

.. and it isn't so bad.

Easter Weekend 2011

2011-04-24T06:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter! This year we had a great Easter! We started on Weds. with an amazing party at our Neighbors home. Our Neighbor, Erica, is simply an amazing person. She makes everything beautiful and brings a smile to any one's face. I am blessed to have her in my life-- and her kids and family in my kids and family lives as well.

The Saturday before Easter we were treated to our FIRST DAY OVER 70! It was amazing to see all the people out and about that day. We, of course, were thrilled and made the very most of it that we could. We started the day with an Egg hunt at my Sister Amy's Ward. It was a blast- and our kids did pretty good in the egg hunting department. Kathryn was content on finding an egg and then sitting down and opening it and then eating it. She didn't seem to understand that quantity is what matters in the egg hunting department. Luckily, we were not lacking for candy.

Sunday was a fun-filled Family Day!

We Brunched with the Conser's at our place, which included another Egg Hunt. We feasted on Tamara's yummy french toast, and Krispy Kreme's yummy bunny shaped doughnuts.

We headed off to church, and then ran out to Hillsboro to have Easter Dinner with the Fredericks, and ANOTHER EGG HUNT! My kids were getting good at egg hunting by now.... but Kathryn still just wanted to sit down and open each egg and eat the contents before moving on.

We ended the day with my singing in a special Easter Fireside at Church. Leila came with me and we listened to music that was prepared for this special day. It brought up the real feelings of what Easter is all about and I am glad to have ended my busy weekend on such a spiritual note.

His Sacred Name - An Easter Declaration

Simply Beautiful

2011-04-20T06:54:00.000-07:00

Kathryn Ella - 04/20/2011

Thanks Erica for capturing my little beauty.

Providence will not be collecting our first born... or our third!

2011-04-15T12:15:00.000-07:00

And Happy Tax Day, By the way--- except you have until Monday to file because of some silly holiday that isn't really a holiday. This would mean in my life as a tax preparer wannabe we would have had one more weekend of crazy stress.

So we got our taxes back and paid off our providence bill-- this was the bill for Kathryn's birth from TWO FLIPPIN' YEARS AGO! We still have her surgery hanging over our heads, which we paid with a 0% card so we could get the tax benefit on this years return, but it sure feels good to get one item off of our list. I had spent the tax return in my mind in many different forms: a new couch, a new bed, a weekend away... but getting free of debt is better than all of that! Yahoo!

Once we get her surgery paid off(Maybe after next years taxes?), maybe we can actually start saving up for a vacation? Won't that be amazing! Where should I go? Immediately I think Hawaii, but Europe would so fun to go back to... but maybe I need a completely new adventure and head down under Aussi Style? We will probably end up going to the beach.

You know those yogurt places

2011-04-11T07:45:00.000-07:00

You know... the ones that are completely self-serve. You could spend $10 on a cup of yogurt? I have been avoiding them like the plague! Mostly for fear of spending $10 on a cup of yogurt.

A friend gave me advice on the best one around-- uu yogurt on Hillsdale Hwy-- really good quality and actually less expensive. But I found mango tango a bit closer to home.

Ok, so I went there three times last week. Tuesday- after a girl scout meeting. Thursday with the Grandma and Grandpa Conser(However I must admit I showed incredible self-control and did not partake). Saturday with a girlfriend for lunch. Yum.

Every once in a while...

2011-04-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

...I seem to get a day I never want to forget.

Spring Break Pics

2011-04-02T14:46:00.000-07:00

fMarch 21-25 was Spring Break! I was looking forward to it! Not only was I looking forward to the sleeping in(which we never did), but I was excited to have my kids all day.

The kids enjoyed their time at home. However, they got bored and got on each others nerves. A rainy week didn't help since it kept us inside. We did eat out a lot, we met with a lot of friends, overall, it was an amazing week off of school. Neither kid wanted to go back to school on Monday, but they came home pretty happy they were able to see their friends again.

A few pics of our week:

Monday was a family day. We went to lunch at Wendy's. We went to the Park. We went the library. We were not fighting as much this day.

Tuesday was ZOO Day with the Oyama's! They are our dear friends and x-neighbors(I still haven't quite forgiven them for moving away) who have family in the area so we still get to see them once in a while. We went to the Zoo and got a bit wet with our typical spring like weather. Then we dined at McD's and played some more on the indoor play structure. It was fun for the kids to play together again, and I was so happy to play with Mandy!

Wednesday took us down to Salem to play with our dear friend Dominic. This was actually a very nice day weather wise, so we played outside on our scooters and Kathryn had fun trying to kick the ball down the street. We went to lunch at 5 Guys- a family favorite which we just had to go to since they had one really close by. My friend Jeanette(Dominic's Mom) is just amazing- she and I don't get to see each other very often, but when we do, our friendship is strong. I am so grateful for her friendship!

(Both these pictures cracked me up, I had to post them up)

Thursday was a Cousin Switch-a-roo day. Leila went to Annalina's to play, and Joseph came here to play with Nathan. It was a much needed day of cousin bonding and a great break for my kids to have some time apart. (No pics, too bad)

Friday I had lunch plans, so my kiddos got to go play with Keegan and Oliver(Thanks Lyndee), and I got spoiled for a birthday lunch with my Sister Amy and my Niece Adrienne. What a treat! That night Jeremy had plans after work and didn't come home until bedtime, so we made the best of it. We headed out to Deseret Book to buy Leila her very own scriptures that have her name engraved on them(This is a typical gift for age 8, but she has been wanting them for a long while now, so we went for it). We also stopped and walked the temple grounds and touched the temple walls. That night, we made a pizza and had a movie night.

My kids were really tired of each other by the end of the week, but they had had countless hours of playing with each other and even though they were quick to make eachother angry, I do believe the bonds of siblings were made stronger. I enjoyed being with my kids and we had fun! What a blessed life I lead!

I wanna hold the whole wide world

2011-03-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

Whole Wide World <-- click link to see video

I'm gonna walk a hundred miles
I'm gonna whistle all the while
If that's what it takes to make me smile
I'm gonna walk a hundred miles

I'm gonna run right up this hill
Summer sky or winter chill
If I gotta take a break I will
But I'm gonna run right up this hill

I wanna hold the whole wide world
Right here in my open hands
Maybe I'm just a little girl
A little girl with great big plans

I'm gonna go and take a chance
I'm gonna learn to ballet dance
Learn a little something 'bout romance
I'm gonna go and take a chance

I'm gonna live a crazy dream
Impossible as it may seem
Doesn't matter what the future brings
I'm gonna live a crazy dream

Chorus

You tell me, "don't try it"
I'm warning you that I won't buy it
All failure is fleeting
I trust it always has its meaning

Chorus

- By Mindy Gledhill, Steuart Brawley

Looks Who's 35!

2011-03-19T23:59:00.000-07:00

ME!

I FINALLY trained my husband to make me a cake- I simply have refused to make my own, which means I have gone without most of my married life(We did go out many times and the restaurants would provide me something good). Good Job Sweetie!

My sweet husband Jeremy did a great job taking care of me today-- he made us a big breakfast to enjoy, and my parents joined us. My kids were very excited to sing to me. They had a beautiful card for me. I went shopping the night before with his blessing and a budget that was his gift for me(and I got some awesome stuff!). I had a low-key afternoon at home with the baby while Jeremy and the kids to a movie. Baby wouldn't nap, but I got a lot of reading in. I started getting ready for my night out and actually did my make up(not remembering that last time I did my full face, I figure it was for my wedding day). We headed out to Sellwood after dropping my kids off at my nieces house to have El Salvadorian food. Then it was over to Roller Derby to watch a very exciting game(more below).

I called my Mom for a last minute shopping trip Friday Night- and she always finds me stuff! I spent way too much money on myself and the conflict of guilt and thrill for doing so was grand.
But I felt pretty spiffy-- new cloths down to my toes!

A bunch of my dear friends went out to dinner with me at El Planeque in Sellwood

These are my Ladies

And the boys

Christy, Me and Melia at Roller Derby- Future Roller Queens?

The topping on the cake, so to speak- was the Roller Derby Experience. Jeremy and I enjoyed the movie "Whip-it" and we looked into it and found the Rose City Rollers. Tonight, my birthday, The Guns N Rollers were playing against the High Rollers. It was entertaining- I think I actually started understanding the game towards the end of the night. We cheered for both teams. It was exciting and very fast moving. To all of you asking me if my next endeavor will be to become a Roller Queen-- I am thinking not. I am not tough enough-- I would be apologizing to the girls I would be bumping out of the way. And when I fell, I would probaby stay on the ground(gravity likes me). But who knows? Molly Mayhem might have a place?

I feel very blessed and happy that I have so very much at age 35.

I think this year will definitely be my year!

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2011-03-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

I love being a mom and torturing my children! I have been speaking to them in an Irish Accent all day and they are so annoyed! HAHA! Who knew this part of parenting would be this much FUN? I splurged this year and got the kids St. Patty's Day Shirts(Nathan doesn't like it when I say St. Patty- "Its St. Patrick Mom!"

My kids donned GREEN today in honor of St. Patrick being from Ireland. Nathan wanted to know what the story was behind it... and I guess I needed to look it up, since I couldn't seem to tell him off the top of my head(even though I know I KNOW the story...). He was basically a good guy- a Christian who stuck to his beliefs when it wasn't easy to do so. After a very hard experience being held captive by those who didn't share his beliefs he was able to use that experience to reach out to others for good. Good Job Patty!

St. Patrick died on March 17 in the 5th Century- which is why we celebrate on this date.

I personally have always felt a kinship with St. Patrick. My Birthday, being the 19th of March, often fell in during Spring Break. But St. Patricks Day was usually on a school day, or at least celebrated on a school day. So we partied! And I felt the party was in my honor!

Plus, green is a fun color and LUCK is something I feel almost every day! So, for me, St. Patricks Day has special feelings. I LOVE IT!

Plus spring is always an exciting time of year with new growth and new possibility popping around everywhere!

St. Patrick's Day is an enchanted time - a day to begin transforming winter's dreams into summer's magic.

Adrienne Cook

(OR NOT! This Picture is after yesterdays Hail Storm!)

Cookie Season is OVER!

2011-03-16T22:22:00.000-07:00

Leila had a successful Girl Scout Cookie season! Thanks for everyone who supported her- she sold 250 boxes and is very excited at her success! As for me-- this Cookie Mom was almost GIDDY with excitement when I went to bank to turn in the last of our money.

A sincere thank you to our friends and family who supported Leila.

Yep- this is A LOT of cases of cookies! We SOLD THEM ALL! In total our troop sold 758 boxes of cookies-- not bad for our first year and not knowing what to expect!

Thin Mints are Leila's Favorite! We had Thin-Mint Milkshakes for dinner one night!

Our troop had three booth sales- and boy was it COLD! But Leila was a trooper. Here she is with Peyton in front of Thriftway.

I am a Neglectful Parent

2011-03-09T09:27:00.000-08:00

Yes- that is Marker. Yes, its washable thank goodness.

If I am not going to feed her....

Well... at least its on the floor and not in the toilet....

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss

2011-03-03T11:11:00.000-08:00

We love Dr. Seuss in our home. We love books and reading. We have a number of his books in our collection and somehow we end up bringing more of his books home from the library at almost every visit.

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

"A person's a person, no matter how small."

“Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.”

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”

I miss my Dad

2011-03-03T10:56:00.000-08:00

I am grieving for my Dad. I miss him. I miss his wise counsel. I miss his interesting conversations. I miss his humor. I miss his just always simply being there whenever I needed him.

I still have my Dad in arms reach, but he has changed. Alzheimer's is slowly taking him from us. His mind, once so intelligent and sharp, is now reverting to more childlike behavior and replacing the once easy going and good natured man to a difficult person to be around. He has good and bad days, and I get to experience many good days, but its still hard.

My heart breaks at watching the rest of my family deal with this disease. My sisters miss their Dad as much as I do. My Mom is holding up, but it isn't easy- she never has a moment without grief of loosing her life long partner and love. She shared with me some tender moments they have recently had together and I will start praying she has more of those.

My two older children love their Grandpa, but they have noticed the change and it scares them and makes them uncomfortable. But they are learning some interesting skills on how to deal with those that are different and push their boundaries. I just wish they didn't have to learn these skills from my Father.

My Baby, however, loves her Grandpa and sees him the way he is meant to be seen: He is fun, and playful, and adoring and safe. She can tease with him and she doesn't see the Man who is no longer is- she just sees him.

Honestly, my eyes are tearing up as I write. I am so grateful that My Dad is who he is. I am thankful I still have him and that he is teaching me, yet again, how to serve and love in a Christlike manner. His life, church activity and even his career was always about serving others. I know my Dad has done an amazing job in his life and has passed the tests the Lord has given him. He is now taking us on a journey to learn to serve and love and grow. And even though he knew this process would be painful, he knew it would also be worth it. I am prepared to go forth and help my friends who are loosing parents to this horrible disease. I now have an understanding to so many people who are feeling the pain of loosing someone they love, without actually saying goodbye.

Kathryn with her Grandpa.

My parents after their wedding in SLC, Ut. 1968.

1984- In front of our house in SLC, Utah

Turning Two!

2011-02-17T22:15:00.000-08:00

When I turned two, mom and I decided to celebrate by taking a bath and talking about my very first bath that, strangely enough, happened two years ago on my birthday! Taking a bath means washing my hair, which makes it nice and curly and people, even strangers, can't help but tell me how cute it is.

It was also forecasted to be a cold and rainy, possibly snowing day. But it was sunny and beeeeuuuatiful! Just for my Day! So we enjoyed a few walks- do you like my new Birthday Jacket? And notice my naturally red curly hair.

And finally, a birthday isn't a birthday without a little cake and singing!

I got lots of good gifts!

Overall I think its great being two. I get to scream and do whatever I want. I am getting better at telling my family what I want and when I want it(usually now). I love having an audience(except when mom asks me to perform) and I say: Look at Me! a lot. I sleep in my big bed and even though I am not sure I like it(its just too exciting to be able to get up and wander around whenever I feel like) I do like being a big girl.

My family loves me. I am adored by so many people. I am a very lucky and a very blessed baby! Here is to hoping I enjoy being two as much I as I enjoyed being one!

Review (For lack of a better, more creative title)

2011-01-30T17:49:00.000-08:00

Kathryn was sick this past week- really sick. Several days worth of fevers. Lots of nasal drainage. Coughing like a chain smoker. But, every day we said: At least it isn't a UTI. I wonder how long we will be grateful that her illnesses aren't because of her kidney issues. I think I will be forever.

So her sleeping schedules were way off-- she slept whenever and where ever she felt like. Which meant night times were tough as I slept with a feet and hands and a head in my back at various times of the night-- along with a little darling asking me for a drink throughout the night. It also meant my days were full of cuddles and holding and not much else. I caught her cold too and was pretty worthless around here, but managed to keep the minimum done around the house to keep things running. I also didn't stress about what wasn't getting done. Holding a sick child is more important than any old laundry pile or sink full of dishes.

Kathryn during a cat-nap.

Nathan came up with a new phrase: Snug Mode. Saturday was a gorgeous spring like day. I spent the morning going on a walk with some dear friends, and then after baby's nap we treated ourselves to some Mexican dinner and then went to Cooper Mountain Nature Park for a walk. Nathan's legs were breaking he was so exhausted. He said as soon as he got home he was going to change into snug mode: Put on his PJ's and get two blankets.

Snug Mode

On our way to CMNP Leila started laughing-- like really from the gut laughing. She told us she just came up with the funniest joke in her head. I asked her to share it, but she wouldn't. She told us if she did, we would be laughing for days and days. She must have thought that was much too disruptive in our lives.

Super Silly Leila

I love my family-- even after exhausting weeks of sickness and the regular run-around of life.

The previous Saturday was the Chocolate Festival which I was so fortunate to be able to attend with my lovely mother and sister in law. This is our second year attending and its a tradition I am happy to see us continue. This year the event was so big the moved it to the convention center- and I have to say I was "Chocolated-out". Which is not something I ever expected to happen. I came home with goodies for my family and shot this cute video of Kathryn enjoying a chocolate covered oreo. (Grandma Conser- you will especially enjoy this video of your chocolate loving baby)

All about GIRL SCOUTS!

2011-01-16T08:31:00.000-08:00

Leila- Daisy Troop 1st Grade

Our house is full of sales! Our little Girl Scout has been selling cookies like crazy for her first year of girl scouts. We really have no idea what to expect or where to set her goals, so we are just going with it- and having fun. Pre-sales end tomorrow(but sales do continue through Feb), so if you need a few boxes of cookies, please call us!

I took her to the store yesterday to get her uniform and gave her a choice between earrings and the little beanie. She chose the beanie-- which I am very happy about because it is so darn cute! Leila becomes an "Official Girl Scout" on Wednesday at her Investiture Ceremony, which should be a lot of fun.

Girl Scouts have been around for a very long time with the confidence and self-esteem of girls as the first priority. Our girls are special. They are capable of doing anything they choose. They are delicate creatures and do require special handling so they are as aware of their specialness as we are. As a parent of a girl the responsibility it great to raise her to understand her value, her worth, and how incredibly amazing she is. I am glad we are involved in this organization.

Grandparents

2011-01-09T23:43:00.000-08:00

Over the past few weeks I have found myself watching the grandparents in the world. I assume they are grandparents, I don't really know. But their age is an indicator. They look grand-parent-ish, so I feel safe to assume they are what I think they are. I don't call them that, so I am not offending them just in case they aren't(except Kathryn will sometimes call out "Grandma" to a grandma-looking lady). I lost my both of my Grandmothers the same year, and I remember grieving them in silly places, like the post office or grocery store, when I would see sweet old women at the checkout stand. Now its old women, old men, and especially these grandparents with their grandchildren or great grandchildren. I miss my parents parents.

Grandma Schouten (the "ch" in Schouten is pronounced like a "k") passed away 15 years ago. When we lived in SLC, UT, she lived in Springville, which was around 45 mins away, so we were able to see her quite a bit. Grandma was independent and fun. She chuckled and laughed and was always wanting to come up with something to bake or cook or make in the kitchen that would put meat on our bones. She enjoyed playing games with us and liked to spend time with us. She was beautiful, wrinkly, but beautiful. I only knew her with white hair, but she had red hair that she passed onto me and now my children. There is a picture of a very young, non-wrinkly her and my grandfather and I always thought she should have been a movie star.

In my later teen years she gave me an envelope with some family keepsake pictures. I didn't appreciate it at the time and have no idea how I managed to keep it in my possession all these years, but I came across it last year when moving some documents down to a newer filing cabinet in our garage. I then put in my kitchen, which I recently unearthed in an organizing fit. I have since decided they belong perfectly in my scripture bag-- you know with the spirit of Elijah and all that. Thanks Grandma for this gift.

Yes- that is me- looks like Kathryn doesn't it?

Good Bye 2010

2011-01-01T04:01:00.000-08:00

I am happy to say good-bye to the year we just endured.

There was a lot of loss. A lot of pain and heartache. A lot of stress and worry. I have watched friends and dear family members struggle with just yucky stuff. I have felt distance develop between certain friends and family that I never thought would have. I have developed anxiety over things I would never have thought I would have a year or two ago.

There were positives too. My baby had a successful surgery and is healthy and happy. I participated in three sprint tri-athlons. I have gained and recognized some very dear friends. I felt the arms and support of many loved ones who rose to care for me and my family in our down times. And of course, my children continue to grow and learn and amaze me daily on the capacity of their minds and the beauty of their spirits.

Overall, this wasn't my favorite year, yet it was an important year. It tested me and made me uncomfortable. Through these tests and discomfort I am learning and growing more as a person. I may not always make the right decisions, but these opportunities are allowing me to know myself more than I thought possible.

I want my children to know when life gets hard, you will learn something from it. What you learn will allow you to become a better person- a wiser person. It will allow you to someday help someone else as they suffer and hurt as you may have. So, hang in there. When you feel hope is lost, it isn't. When you are sad and feel lonely, you aren't. When you are so frustrated and do not want to do a single thing, don't- take a short break- then get back to it. Your Mom says its OK.
And your Mom loves you more than anything.

Now, lets move forward and see what is next?

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-24T20:37:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from the Conser Family....

We love you and hope the end of 2010 finds you as blessed and thankful as we are....

We wish you a healthy and happy 2011.

With all of our love,

Jeremy, Megan, Leila, Nathan, Kathryn

Losses

2010-12-19T04:30:00.000-08:00

We lost Travis on Dec. 3rd. He is our beautiful niece Carina's Papa. His passing didn't make sense to us because he was young and had a life with a lot of beauty and good in it. We will miss Travis. I loved Travis because he seemed to be the only person in the world that saw and called my giant babies(all over 9 pounds at birth) little and tiny. When he held them, they looked little and tiny too. He loved to hold them and wander around when they needed to be walked. At family events he could often sense when I needed to get my babies back in my arms and would just pluck them from wherever they were and deliver them to me. As my children started to growing, he talked to them like equals and shared his knowledge with them. He always seemed very happy with babies and children nearby. Having his own child was a natural fit and the new title of Dad suited him perfectly. He always seemed happy with snow and water nearby too. He loved the outdoors and I was anxious to go kayaking with him, but the last time he finally talked me into it, pregnancy hit and we had to put it off. Travis knew just about everything about everything. The plus side of that is I could always ask him a random question and usually get an answer. I always appreciated him as another non-Conser at Conser family events. He was a member of the Conser family when I joined it, however we had the bond of both being outsiders in this family and could appreciate each other in that respect. A funny memory I have of Travis is at our wedding he saved us a huge plate of shrimp to make up for his not getting much shrimp on his own wedding day. We will join in Travis' memorial on Dec. 22nd.

On Leila's Blessing Day Nov. 2003

Enjoying snuggles from Leila and Sadie(but espeically Leila) Nov. 2004

Here is Uncle Travis and Aunt Tamra holding our two crazy kids. Carina is in the photo too, she just wasn't quite ready to be seen yet.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We lost Grandpa Frederick on Dec. 17th. Grandpa's passing made more sense. He was 95. He and Grandma had been apart for almost 14 years and I know their reunion is sweet. His funeral will be held on Dec. 23rd. This date is significant because this is his and Grandma's wedding anniversary- 75 years this year- and also the anniversary of Grandma's funeral 14 years ago. Grandpa always called me Miss Megan. He had a twinkle in his eye and liked to tease us. He could be a grump at times, but we knew Grandpa loved us. He had a pretty big sweet tooth. While he and Grandma were touring the US our family would go to their home in Forest Grove and check on everything. Once we came across a huge stash of chocolate in his frig. I, being around 11 and very sure of right and wrong, refused to allow my family to take any. This was Grandpa's after all, we shouldn't steal it. Upon their return my Dad told him how I guarded his stash and Grandpa rewarded me with my very own chocolate bar. Which someone else ended up eating at home(I was very annoyed). As I have visited Grandpa with my children over the past few years I have appreciated his knowledge and memories and experiences. He has always worked hard for a good life. In our last few visits Leila and Nathan seemed to recognize and respect my Grandpa as something unique- its not every kid who has a Great Grandfather. They really liked looking at his trinkets and belongings while we visited and listened to his stories. Our last visit with Grandpa was at my Aunt Renetta's Home in Monmouth in October while my Aunts Linda and LaDonna were visiting. I sat with Grandpa at the dinning table and he played with Kathryn. He would put his had on the table, she would put her hand on the table, he would move his closer to hers, she would move hers closer to his over and over. They both played and laughed and genuinely enjoyed each others company. I am grateful to have these memories in my heart.

Leila's Blessing Day Nov. 2003

Grandpa's 90th Birthday- Jan 2005

Visiting Grandpa Dec. 2008

Grandpa's 95th Birthday Bash - Jan 2010- He LOVED Kathryn's red curls

Visit to Grandpa- August 2010

Howard Newton Frederick

2010-12-19T04:25:00.000-08:00

Howard Newton Frederick, age 95, died December 17, 2010 at Orchard Heights in Salem, Oregon. He was born to John and Bess Frederick the 21st of January, 1915 in Marion County, Missouri, near the small community of Warren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Estelle Rice Frederick whom he married on December 21, 1935. They were married for 60 years. They moved to Forest Grove, Oregon in 1946. He worked for the US Postal Service in Forest Grove for 28 years. He was active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was the first Bishop of the original Hillsboro Ward. He served in various capacities in the Forest Grove 2 Ward until he was 90. Howard loved researching family history, sports and traveling across our great nation.

He and his wife had four children, LaDonna (Guy) Richardson of Crestwood, Kentucky, Richard (Renetta) Frederick of Monmouth, Oregon, Mick (Mary) Frederick of Hillsboro, Oregon and Linda (Michael) Harper of Duncan, South Carolina. He is also survived by 17 grandchildren, and 39 great grandchildren. He is preceded him in death by two grandsons, Michael and Scott.

Services will be held at the Forest Grove Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 2700 Leon Drive in Forest Grove at 10:00 am presided by Pres. Brad Richardson and conducted by Bishop Darren Hitchcock. There will be a viewing one hour before the services. Internment will be at the Sunset Cemetery following the service.

Six on the 6th!

2010-12-06T21:57:00.000-08:00

Our little Man turned 6. He is my daily reminder some of the best things in life are not planned. Some of the best things in life come like a storm out of nowhere and leave a happy trail behind making the world a better place for having happened. We love our Little Man. Nathan proved to me my heart was capable of even more love than I thought possible.

Nathan is very sweet. He is very sensitive. When we were planning his party, before he had a guest list for himself, he wanted to make sure we invited some babies for Kathryn and some girls for Leila. He loves to share his things for the most part. A new exciting toy might not be sharable for a while, but he is known to give his toys away to people he loves. Nathan is goofy and funny, or at least he THINKS he is! He always makes me laugh. But when Nathan is in a bad mood, my heart breaks- it affects every part of this house. Thankfully those times are few and far between. After going to bed at night, unless he is super tired, he always gets up one more time to get another kiss and snuggle.

Today for his Birthday Nathan wanted to go to Red Robin with Grandma and Grandpa. We met up with them, and My Dad, who is quite the social butterfly these days, harassed the manager about getting a free dinner for Nathan's "Golden Birthday". Of course that was not possible, however, when it came time to sing to our boy, the brought him a piece MUD PIE(which they used to give for birthdays when I was a kid)! He wasn't super impressed with the singing. In fact, he wasn't sure he wanted that big thing- he had in his mind an ice cream Sunday and our Nathan needs to be prepared of what is coming. So he panicked a little until he saw both of his sisters eyes grow about ten times their normal size and the drool forming around their mouths(OK, mine too). He dove in and didn't regret it. He didn't even feel up to his actual Birthday Cake, which we will enjoy tomorrow. Lucky Boy!

We love you Little Man! Happy Birthday from your Family!

No More Daily Doses!

2010-11-30T19:15:00.000-08:00

At around 5 months old Miss Kathryn was put on a daily antibiotic to help her with her kidney reflux issues. Kidney Reflux in itself is not a big deal, but when it causes infection from bacteria getting back into her kidney and growing it becomes a major deal. Especially when the kidneys are teeny tiny. Every infection causes scaring and too much scaring will ruin these delicate organs.

Kathryn around 5 months old

Today at around 21 months old Miss Kathryn got the go ahead from her Urologist to stop all daily doses of antibiotics. He told us we do not need to worry next time she gets a fever that it might be a UTI. Of course, we are to keep in mind the criteria and act accordingly if there are not other symptoms, BUT she should be a normal kid now!

Kathryn around 21 months old

Her ultra sound was a bit traumatic for her. She really does not like health care professionals. She likes her urologist, but wasn't so sure she wanted him touching her scar(which he made a straight line, not a lightening bolt like Nathan suggested). After we were out of there, she was happy. So were we.

Good Job Baby Girl!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-25T12:08:00.000-08:00

So very Thankful for some many things this year.

Its been a tough year for me... but I have so very much. Thank you Lord for all my blessings.

Today is November 25th, 2010. Here are 25 things I am grateful for:

My Husband
My Amazing Leila
My Sweet Nathan
My Baby Love Kathryn
My Healthy Family
My Parents
My Parents gained through marriage
My Sisters
My Sister gained through marriage
The Boys gained through marriage
My Sisters who are my Friends
My Friends who have become as my Sisters
Long Lost Friends who took the time to find me and reconnect
Sweet wet kisses from babies
Tight crushing hugs from little boys
Conversations with big little girls
Modern conveniences
Safety and shelter
Music
Availability of medical expertise
A Dad who can still send e-mails with beautiful thoughts
A Mom who can craft and sew and make life beautiful with small things
Aunts and Uncles who love me and my children
Children who love my Aunts and Uncles and understand family goes beyond our home
My nieces and nephews that I love as my own.

and a bonus: 26. Fresh Baked Rolls

“Gratitude turns a meal into a feast and drudgery into delight. It softens our grief and heightens our pleasure. It turns the simple and common into the memorable and transcendent. It forges bonds of love and fosters loyalty and admiration.”

Joseph B. Wirthlin

Future Profession & Jammie Day

2010-11-22T13:40:00.000-08:00

I realize my posts have been very Kathryn-centric lately. She is just so darn cute! I can't help myself! I will post some updates on the other critters I created, but for now, its on with the Kathryn Show...

Here is a picture of her performing a job that could be a possible future profession? Seriously- no pressure- but I know she is smart enough!

And there are days when my kids mirror the way I am feeling. There was a day last week when Kathryn didn't want to get changed out of her Jammies. When I asked her if she wanted to go upstairs to get changed or stay in her jammies, she just said: "Stay in jammies." Being a jammie girl myself, and wishing I could simply answer no and stay in my jammies- I indulged her. She stayed in her jammies until after her nap. I think its safe to say she has this mom wrapped around that pinky finger:

Babies and Blankies

2010-11-16T18:33:00.000-08:00

Kathryn loves her blankies. She isn't really attached to just one, but loves being snuggled. We swaddled her at naptime and bedtime for months and months too long(all our children actually, this might be why Nathan can't handle being held too tight- but the girls can!), but she has enjoyed the cuddle factor of a good swaddling. So long as it didn't interfere with her self-proclaimed independance.

Lately, she will bring me a blanket and simply turn around. She is expecting me to drape it around her shoulders so she can walk around wrapped up in it.

She also likes to roll on the floor with her blankie wrapped around her. She will ask me to swaddle her dolly up too and will even roll her dolly around on the floor.

Of course... she is just my little dolly.

Recovery, kinect and tutututus

2010-11-05T15:54:00.000-07:00

Kathryn's recovery has been going very well. She is feeling great. She wasn't sleeping real well for about a week, but has started sleeping through the night once again. She still gets bladder spasms from time to time and they are quite painful- she doesn't know what do with herself- and its brutal to watch, but overall she is doing much much better. We don't take her into the doctor again until Nov. 30th at which point they will do an ultrasound to make sure things look OK and with those results we will discuss what to do next. I am very encouraged and happy with how things went and are continuing to go. A healthy child has to be one of Lifes greatest blessings.

Kathryn is feeling much much better!

Jeremy got his new game on the xbox360- the kinect is a game where there is no controller. There is a special camera that uses pretty cutting edge technology to track and even recognize its players- or avatars as a nerdy gamer might call it. I haven't had a chance to play with it yet, but the kids love it and it looks like a great work out. I normally don't let them play video games until Daddy is home for the night, but today is Friday and its allowing me to blog.

I have been busy making tutu's and coordinating hair bows for my mom to see if they will sell in her upcoming bazaar on Saturday out at Jennings McCall Retirement Center in Forest Grove. I can make one a nap. They are super cute- the pictures don't do them justice.

We are looking forward to a nice fall weekend at home with everyone feeling relatively healthy.

Spooky Halloween!

2010-10-31T23:19:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite halloween picture of 2010!

Check out all this LOOT!

Kathryn Surgery Pics

2010-10-27T21:29:00.000-07:00

Of course, I documented Kathryn's Surgery with a ton of pictures!

This is on the ride in: Wonder what we are doing up so early?

She got that cute pillow from the admissions lady. Grandma made that beautiful quilt. And of course Elmo was along for fun. But she did not like being on that bed. Those jammies seemed familiar too, maybe today wasn't going to be such a good day.

Much better in Daddy's arms.

Woo Hoo- Look at me!

I am QUEEN of the play room(who else plays in here at 7AM?)

Was the surgery worth it for this popsicle? I think so!

The IV was put in her foot. They poked each of her hands twice and the other foot once. Its a good thing it was on her foot- every time she saw it she freaked out- if it had been in her hand we would have been miserable. Thankfully she was "under" when they put the IV in.

Look at how loved Kathryn is!

She was great snuggle material!

She tried to get Melia and Uncle Richard to make a break for it. But they wouldn't.

She enjoyed her wagon rides- she took one on Monday evening and three on Tuesday.

Melia's Cell phone can play Elmo video's- how cool is that?

Yea- Mommy is a wee-bit tired.

The view from the window we didn't have in our half of the room.

This pretty much how I slept all night- and a took a little nap before her catheter was taken out.

Her super fun bear puzzle.

So sweet!

So cute!

We love you Baby Kathryn!

LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU!

Bilateral Ureteral Reimplantation - Complete

2010-10-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

The surgery went very well and all Jeremy and I can say is how thankful we are that we have this experience behind us and now all we need to do is focus on getting our little one better.

To say I was stressed out would be an understatement. I tried, but I was stressed and stressed equals grumpy and mean. My poor kids took the brunt of it. I felt like the worlds worste Mother Sunday morning after yelling at my kids and leaving for church without them. But I pulled it together, turned around and picked them up and really tried to make our afternoon much better. I gave Kathryn a bath in the evening and afterwards lotioned and massaged her. I kissed her little tummy knowing that would be the last time I would see her perfect little skin there. It was a hard night. She just laughed because mommy was being so silly.

I didn't sleep much Sunday night- this was after taking a sleep aid too. We got up at 4:45 and I quickly made some muffin batter for my sister to bake after we left, then got showered and ready. Jeremy packed up the car. My sister Amy showed up to stay with the kids and then later take them to school. Kathryn was still sleeping and we woke up her up and changed her diaper. And then we were off. I was worried we would be late. It didn't help the clock in Jeremy's car was fast(We left the van for Jeremy's mom to bring the kids over later). I did not openly stress out though- I needed to be as calm as possible for our little peanut. She was in good spirits and we got to the hospital and checked in.

After I promised to pay them for our charges(offering my first born wasn't a payment option- how odd), we were taken up to children's surgery. We had vitals taken and bracelets put on and then more waiting for the operating team. We waited in the children's playroom, which was empty and Kathryn was pleased beyond measure. Then it was time to go to the basement. The operating transition room was brightly decorated and they had toys for Kathryn to play with. We met her nurse, her anethesizologist, and then Dr. Lashley came out and talked with us. We felt very comfortable and very ready to part. We gave last minute kisses and they took her from my arms and whisked her away before either of us really knew what was happening. The nurse showed us where the waiting room was. We got a pager that would go off when we had half an hour before the end of the surgery so we could make sure to be down in the waiting room.

Jeremy and I went up to the atrium and watched the storm and had some breakfast. My stomach was in major knots, so breakfast didn't agree so much with me. We tried to keep our mind off the stresses of the day, but we just couldn't. We ended up going down to the family waiting area about an hour and a half into the surgery. They came out to update us and let us know the first kidney was repaired and they were starting on the second kidney. I had a mix of emotions. I was grateful everything was going well, but I had a visual of my sweet baby open on an operating table- and that was a terrifying thought. There was a little old man manning the desk in the waiting room. He was pretty sharp- made me miss my own Dad a bit. This guy asked everyone as they came in who they were and matched them up to the patient and doctor on his list and then when the time came to get updated he knew exactly who needed it. I was impressed he could remember so much and so well. I don't think that could be a job I could handle!

At this point in the morning all the surgeries were ending and families were starting to leave the waiting room and I just kept waiting for our turn. Finally Dr. Lashley came out a little after 11:00 to tell us everything went fine. It was actually less complicated than he had planned as she ended up only have one ureter on the one said instead of two. So this was good. He told us they would call us when she started waking up in recovery. Again we kept waiting for our turn and I was starting to get nervous. Finally the little man in the room asked me if I would mind going back to help them wake her up and I was more than happy to do so. She had been sleeping for about 45 minutes and they thought it might be easier for her if I was there. I will say it was emotional to look at her laying there completely out. Soon she woke up after I started talking to her and she looked around and tried to focus, but mostly just chilled out. She had no nausea. There were two other children in the room and they were not having such an easy time coming out of it, so the nurse in charge of Kathryn was trying to get her out of there quickly before Kathryn decided to start crying too. But she never fell into doing what the crowd was doing and stayed pretty calm.

We went up to our room on the 3rd floor. We walked into our room and I saw an amazing view of the Fremont Bridge, but we were sharing the room and the windows were not in our half. In fact, our half of the room had the door to the room so we had a lot of movement with the other family and their nurses coming and going . The girl next to us was around 5-6 and had a similar procedure as Kathryn, but had terrible nausea and was not happy. The poor family was sorry they were so loud for us with our sweet baby, but I tried to explain we were used to older children- their child was not used to younger children and I imagine it would be hard to hear a baby when you were not used to it. It was hard to have to share, mostly because when you are concerned for your own child and then have to be concerned that you might disrupt another persons child too, its very stressful. Emmanuel hospital is building an all new children's hospital so sharing rooms will not be an issue, but this hospital won't be done for several years. Hopefully we will never have to go to that one.

Kathryn had some pain when we got into the room. Our nurse was great an we made a great pain plan and got her comfortable almost immediately. She did not want to lay in her crib, so we held her. My stomach felt much better once I had her in my arms. She had a Popsicle right away and was good about drinking her juice.

We had several visitors. Grandma and Grandpa Frederick came to see us. She was so happy to snuggle with Grandma. Jeremy and I took this time to go get some lunch. We shared a sandwich and salad. I was done eating and started to panic that I was not with Kathryn and ditched Jeremy at the cafeteria to make sure my baby was OK. Of course, she was fine and hadn't even cried while I was out.

My dear friend Marcie came to see us. Kathryn liked the attention and really loved the stickers she brought(She put them all in her Kathryn photo book). Aunt Tamara stopped in on her way home from work. Grandma Sue came after picking the kids up at school. The kids were very happy to see Kathryn, and she was happy to see them. Unfortunately the room was not very comfortable for visitors, so they were not happy to stick around. I think Nathan was a little nervous that he might hurt Kathryn and didn't want to get too close. Grandma took the kids out to the hall after saying good-bye and Jeremy stuck around for a little bit longer and then left to go have dinner with them and went home to spend the night with the kids. My parents left shortly after that too. My dear friend Melia came and brought me some dinner and hung out. The nurses saw her in her scrubs(she works at a urology clinic at this hospital actually) and knew they were in good company. My sweet sister Amy and her hubby Richard came to see us too. We had a good time. During this time Kathryn decided to dump her cup of cranberry juice on me. I had a clean shirt, but no clean pants so I was issued a hospital pair(not scrubs though- they don't give parents scrubs so as not to confuse them into thinking they might actually be medical professionals). That evening we took Kathryn on a wagon ride. She was glad to be able to get out and about I think.

Sleeping was tough. She wouldn't let me lay her down- and I don't blame her. I did go through the go-to-bed routine, and then we watched Curious George until she fell asleep around 11. At this point we were 45 mins away from another vitals check, so I stayed awake. I also knew there would be no point in setting up the cot since I though Kathryn would be more comfortable in my arms in the rocking chair- so I rocked her all night long. My arms and legs were sore, but Kathryn slept through the night for the most part. They came in for another vitals check around 4AM. I knew the Doctor would be there around 5AM, so I got up and tried to change her diaper(She was still catheterized and it was a bit tricky getting everything changed making sure I didn't hurt her wound at her "bikini" line.

The doctor came in to check on her and it was nice to talk to him. We had a plan to take out her catheter after breakfast and then see if she could pee on her own. Once she could do that we were free to go home. I was very excited at that thought. I called Jeremy around 6 and asked him to come in. I was tired and very sore and needed a few minutes to myself. He had already been up with the kids who were so excited Grandma was at our house they got up super early. He got to the hospital around 7 and I excused myself for some me-time. I went to get breakfast, but nothing sounded good. Thankfully my sister brought me some banana bread the night before and I ended up eating more of that.

My dear friend Tami came to see us too. By this point the family next to us had left and we had a quiet room. We opened the curtains between the two designated areas and we were able to enjoy our view. Kathryn was able to get a good hour long nap before they pulled out her catheter. We just needed her to pee. She had a deadline. So pee. Please! The deadline came and went with nothing coming out. They did a quick ultra sound and we found her bladder was definately full enough to be able to pee, so we just needed to wait a bit more. We took a few more wagon rides and she was having some pain passing gas. We had a new deadline of 1:45. If she couldn't go on her own they would re-cath her to empty her bladder before leaving, or they would send her home with another "Foley" that we would have to go into the doctor the next day to have removed. Thankfully she met her 1:45 deadline and we were kicked out with nothing extra to take care of.

Kathryn slept most of the way home and we stopped to get her prescriptions dropped off- I waited in the car while Jeremy ran them in. At home Grandma Conser was with the kids and Grandpa Conser had just driven up to join them as well. I ran upstairs to shower and get the hospital smell off of me. Kathryn was thrilled to be home and was running around like a crazy baby! It seriously didn't seem like she had had a surgery at all. I was a bit worried, but felt like she probably wouldn't be running around if she wasn't in pain- right? My parents brought us dinner and enjoyed Kathryn's "show". The big kids were a bit emotional too, but I tried to spend a few minutes of one on one time with both of them. I wish I had planned on spending more one on one time- I forget about how sensitive and concerned they are about their baby sister.

Kathryn paid for her over exertion though- she slept for 13 hours Tuesday night- which is not typical for her. I woke up later(Jeremy had the day off and was up with the kids) and realized she wasn't up yet and I worried for a few minutes. We went in and woke her up and she was fine- but very tired. Her urine will be bloody for a few weeks, and it was very bloody this morning, and she threw up a little bit. Both items are on the list to call the doctor about- but I wasn't wanting to call him. So we watched her all morning and felt she was doing OK. She took it much easier. Grandma and Grandpa Conser came over with Cousin Carina around noon to visit. They noted her much more subdued activity level. My kids didn't have school today thanks to Parent Teacher Conferences, so they went to Grandma and Grandpa Frederick's to play, which allowed Kathryn to be much more calm. In fact, her nap this afternoon was taken on me downstairs on the couch- its been a long time since we have done that.

She ramped up activity again tonight- I am thinking it might be a need to release energy as children just simply need to do. I tried to keep her calmer tonight. She fought going to bed a little harder tonight, but she did settle down on her own. Tomorrow kids are back to school and Jeremy is back to work. My Aunt Renetta is coming over to visit for a bit in the afternoon. I have had very sweet friends offer to bring me dinner through Friday.

I am feeling very loved and supported. Its a blessing to be at this place in my life. I know while Jeremy and I sat together in the waiting room, we were not alone in our anxiety, our concern, our love for our child. We have friends from all over the globe who were thinking of our precious baby, sending her good thoughts, sending her prayers, and just plain caring about her and the rest of us. I am overwhelmed and touched at the care and compassion the world has shown this one little child. She matters. She is important. There are people out there whose job is her welfare and comfort.

What Kathryn Loves

2010-10-24T19:22:00.000-07:00

If you love Kathryn, you will love this video- she is just the cutest little thing.

Does anyone want to disagree?

Orange Evening!

2010-10-22T22:01:00.000-07:00

Today was supposed to be the "calm before the storm" or storms as the weather person put it. The rains were supposed to come in around six and stay until next May. We had planned to go to the pumpkin patch tomorrow, but decided to get a jump on it and the weather and we met Jeremyon his way home from work out at Baggenstos Family Farm. They have a cute little set up and a huge corn maze along with a hay ride down to another field to pick out the perfect pumpkin. We did not partake of the corn maze this year-But it looked awesome! Nathan found his pumpkin right away. Leila searched and searched and searched and searched, and finally found the perfect one(Which could by no means be the one I was pointing out to her). We had fun- the weather was perfect and we found the perfect pumpkins for our little punkins.

(This is my favorite of all the photos- the kids naturally held hands as the tractor pulled away. How sweet is that?)

Busy is Good

2010-10-22T07:59:00.000-07:00

Its the weekend before Surgery-

Last week was a little crazy with Kathryn having a UTI and my not knowing for a day and half if she would indeed have the surgery or not. The urologist was able to get her on treatment and feels fine about her having surgery. Now she has a cold and I am praying every day that this cold departs and will not cause delay or complications on Monday.

I am super busy with things I just can't quite get done. I have help coming over today to finish up putting away laundry(Thanks Mom!). I will make it my weekend goal to get my room and upstairs vacuumed and put away nicely. We have let our kitchen go for two days it seriously looks like a health hazard and plus there are no more spoons or forks for the baby to take out of the drawer and stick in the couches so she is not knowing how to spend her time.

We had parent teacher conferences last night and are pleased with our children's achievement's and their future goals. I love my kids and am so glad we have them in the programs they are currently in.

Tonight we will try to do a pumpkin patch hoping it stays dry as it most likely won't be dry tomorrow. Tomorrow is movie morning for Jeremy an the kids. We want to spend the afternoon and evening together to enjoy our good time as a family. Hopefully we will be hanging in a clean house- but I might entice Jeremy to a drive in the changing leaves.

Sunday is the kids Primary Program at church- they both have parts memorized and it should prove to be very entertaining. I teach Nathan's class now, so I will be up with him. I can't see my Leila where I sit, but that should be OK. I have some other things to do on Sunday, but hopefully it will be a chill-out day and we will enjoy our family time.

I am so tired. I am anxious about the surgery, but I am also ready to deal with it and the emotions that go along with it. I just wish I could sleep a few more hours every single day. It seems the moment I get up I have to start doing because I just feel I have so much to do I can't waste a minute. I have so much in my life. I have been making lists of to-do's and wants and things I just need to get out of my head. All of this is very comforting, however I started a list of what I am thankful for and that list won't seem to end. Talk about comfort.

One thing I am thankful is all the love and support my friends are offering. I have so many calls and e-mails to see how we are doing, what can be done for us, and just that we are in your prayers and thoughts. Thank you. The surgery is scheduled for Monday at 8AM. Hopefully we will only spend one night there, but there is a real possibility of spending two nights. We do not have access to a computer at the hospital. I do not have a cell phone- so I will try to update as soon as I can.

Soccer

2010-10-17T18:06:00.000-07:00

Nathan really did enjoy soccer even though the above picture doesn't show it(he hates hates hates having his picture taken- if you can enlarge the picture look at that perfect pout!). The best part was his buddy Jofess was on his team(they have matching shirts from last year). The coach figured out pretty quick that they didn't need to play together otherwise soccer quickly became a full contact sport.

My sister belongs to an organization out in Hillsboro that is all volunteer and allows children to enjoy the game and not deal with the more competitive side of things. We have joined in the past several years. Leila decided soccer isn't her thing. Its perfect for those of us with kids who aren't sure they want to be competitive and those parents of us who don't have the cash. Our Nathan is pretty good- we enjoy watching him play and one day might put him in the city league and see how he really does!

Up or Down?

2010-10-15T06:24:00.000-07:00

Should I wear up?

Or Down?

Unwelcome visitors

2010-10-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

You are not invited into my home. How dare you just show up. And show up as a surprise. And show up on a day when I already had so much to do and deal with. How dare you mess with my children, mess up my clean bedding, make all our toys undesirable. I hate you and wish there was no such thing as YOU!

Yep- we got LICE! Lucky us. I kept the kids home and we started treating the hair. Nathan was lucky and we shaved his using the 1/8" setting on the clippers. Too bad I can't even do that very well. Made "nit-picking" much easier. I haven't noticed any in Kathryn's hair, but might treat her anyway.

I will say it was enjoyable to spend more than just a few minutes with my children as a captive audience. They had to rest at my feet while I picked through their hair-- I felt like a momma monkey. We had sweet conversations and while they wiggled a little, I enjoyed the closeness and experience. We have had a great day- the kids are being very helpful and getting along very nicely.

If there are no living lice in the morning they can go to school. I called the school and asked if they would be sending out a notice to the families- but no. Apparently the Oregon Health Department has decided lice are not shared at school- contact isn't close enough. But I seriously don't know where else they could have gotten it. The only other kids they spend time with are the kids at church- and there is no head contact there- and their cousins, which they haven't even seen them much lately. Oh wait- we did do OMSI on Friday? Maybe.... but seriously-- who cares? So long as I kill them all.

EEEWWW --- DIE LICE DIE!

Leila and two of her favorite things

2010-10-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

Or Kathryn and two of her favorite things....

The Life of Two

2010-10-10T18:29:00.000-07:00

This is how the cool kids are wearin' it...

2010-10-10T18:25:00.000-07:00

The Fun Run

2010-10-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

I volunteered at the kids school for the fun run and marked off the kids as they passed the lap mark. The fun run is a fundraiser where 100% of the money raised goes to the kids-- spefically their field trips. This past year the Parent Teacher Club invested in an electronic reader board and spent all the money on that and other unexpected costs, so our kids have $0 in the budget for having fun. I was excited to help out- and boy was this fun- the first group was the 4th graders- they had plenty of markers so I cheered on the kids. I knew a few of them from our bus stop. The second group was the 5th graders. Again, I knew a couple of them. We volunteers finally figured out how to mark the big packs of kids and I had several kids who kept coming over to me each lap so we developed a bit of a relationship. These kids had a blast and really gave it their all. I hated running in school- so I was super impressed to see the kids doing it. I had a 5th grader I wanted to adopt. He ran 22 laps- around 5.5 miles! Wow! There was another boy whose goal was 18 laps. He didn't want to stop for water because it would waste time- but I told him he needed to, and like a good boy, he listened. (Gosh, what a MOM I have turned into!)

The after those two groups out came the kindergartners. Any thoughts we volunteers had to make things run smoothly went out the window. The kids ran in packs and were not capable of getting marked off other than a single file line. It was pretty funny actually.

Nathan reminded me of a rubber band-- he would go super fast then then slow down to almost a stop, and the get super excited and take off again and slow down. I also noticed the kinderkids would often just sit down when they felt they were too tired. Nathan would go over to them and ask them if they needed help- he would spend a minute on them, and then off he would go. A few times I saw him go backwards, but the teachers seemed to keep him on track. Kathryn really wanted to get down with him(I wore her in the eurgo-baby). I let her down and Nathan held her hand and walked with her. So very very cute. She was thrilled and he was proud. What better combo? Nathan's tally sheet said he ran 6 laps. That is a mile and a half! I am so impressed with him.

Leila's group was after lunch so I couldn't stick around. She ran 10 laps, which is 2 1/2 miles! Way to go long-legged Leila! Both my kids amaze me.

Cool Video about Jeremy's Work

2010-10-06T15:42:00.000-07:00

Jeremy puts up with my scrap booking, blogging, and other such interests in my life. He is quite supportive- and if you saw our office and the piles of crap I have on hand you would agree. He even comes up with ideas for layouts, themes and blog topics(I had him actually scrapbook a page with me- he liked doing it, but will never do another one because of all the grief his buddies gave him- after I proudly told them of course).

So, here is a video Jeremy suggested, very strongly, that I post about Climax Portable Machine and Tool. Its actually pretty cool:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHrGuoKVEwg

Picaboo

2010-09-27T23:40:00.000-07:00

I wanted to assemble a little book for Kathryn and her hospital stay with pictures of her family. I was going to do a mini-scrapbook, but she likes to tear my existing mini-scrapbooks apart. My sister suggested I try a photo book, which I have always wanted to try. She sent me a code to get a free 20 page book for my first time try- all I would have to pay was shipping.

So, I got to work and started picking out pictures. I had about 100 photos. So I seriously started cutting down. I made a book of 24 pages. I got the discount of $39.99 and ended up paying around $16. I am looking forward to seeing how the book looks in person.

I love to scrap-book. I love paper. I love lay-outs. I love the process of assembling my creativity and getting things put together just right, and then enjoying it over and over again while reviewing the finished product. I feel its like a puzzle- there are limitations set by the number of items I desire on a page, and I have to figure a way to make it pleasing to the eye. There is also the constant need to have something new and exciting in my collection.

Digital scrap booking hasn't proven challenging enough for me, however there are aspects that I do like- the fact I don't have to have all my pictures printed out. I can also manipulate the photos, zoom in, make larger, change color and even correct all with a click of a mouse. Some programs have cute little add-on embellishments(not this one however)This book I was able to choose a theme which meant I wouldn't run out of a paper theme. Oh- and the fact I can sit down on a Sunday afternoon and start to pull together my ideas and have a book ordered by Monday evening, that is very nice.

To see the book online check out the link(You can even buy a copy if you want!):
http://app.picaboo.com/WebView/Project.aspx?clientID=0cac3d5abcc55699f9e6516fcc51cbca&version=50330

So anyway- go to picaboo.com and make yourself a book. Use code: 1FBLGB-7W and get yourself $39.99 off your first book and see if you are as satisfied with your product as I hope to be!

Third Time- Tri-athlete!

2010-09-25T16:43:00.000-07:00

Third time is the CHARM! And definitely FUN!

My Aunt Renetta, who sucked me into all this tri-non-sense, helped her stake put on a tri-athlon for the women in her area. There was no way I was going to miss this one! This was a fun race. My sister Amy and I spent the night with my dear friend Melia and three new friends from the Hillsboro area and we enjoyed each others company and enjoyed the race experience. We had fun singing primary songs and church hymns out on the bike route as we passed the other ladies on their way back in. The group effort at this event was unique as my other two events were very personal and solitary.

All of us felt a little insecure with our training--or lack there-of-- but we knew we wanted to complete another sprint tri-athlon and I think we are pleased with the results. I had an especially hard week suffering from a week-long migraine and other physical pain issues. But, recovery after this third event is definitely a lot easier than at the first one(but don't tell my husband because I am definitely using this as an excuse to lay around and not change diapers and blog).

I have found that even though I may be carrying around extra weight and don't look or feel how I want to, that I am still capable of setting physical goals and achieving them. I have found that despite any physical pain I am in, I am able to focus and relax and enjoy the moment at hand. I have found that although it might not be very pleasant, the reward for endurance is sweet and gratifying. I simply found a strength inside of me that allows me to keep going. The power of prayer is huge, and I am grateful to have it on my side.

I think I can becomes I know I can.

My goal is now a reality.

I feel good about myself and my abilities.

Thanks to my friends and my dear sweet family for supporting me and believing in me too.

What will you do with all your time?

2010-09-20T20:58:00.000-07:00

This happens to be the question of the year.... Nathan is in kindergarten, Leila in first grade... life has gotten a lot quieter around here during the day. Here is one day in the life of Kathryn and Mommy:

Soyou can see... lots of fun... lots of play... lots of smiles.... and just a few tantrums:

Saturday Morning Video Games

2010-09-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

9 years... but who is counting?

2010-09-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

9 years ago today I woke up in the guest bedroom at Squirrel #1 in Sunriver, Oregon. My mom was disappointed I didn't sleep in longer, but I was too excited about my day. (According to today's standards, I would count that as sleeping in... but that was a different life ago, right?). My parents, two of my sisters, two nephews and two nieces were all staying at this home. They wandered over to the home the Conser's rented where Carl had made a grand breakfast (his specialty) and they brought me home a plate. I wanted to wait to get ready once the photographer showed up, but I couldn't wait-- I was too excited.

In the master bedroom my two friends joined my mom, my sisters and I and we laughed and giggled. My very pretty feminine floral underwear showed through my very beautiful handmade(that very week by wonderful mom) ivory wedding dress. I won't tell you if I decided to go without(although the girls in the room will remember what happened).

One sister was at home on bedrest with a niece not ready to be born yet and she listened by phone to the ceremony. We kissed as husband and wife and then enjoyed our time with family and very close friends. It was a special day that we will never forget. We ate barbecued salmon, had shrimp, salad, goodies. We had an amazing cake.

Jeremy whisked me off to a fancy hotel in Bend right on the deschutes river and was mistaken for a bell-boy when he went to get our stuff from the car. He didn't respond very nicely, so we are sure the hotel got a little complaint about their employees rudeness. He didn't care because they had lost his reservation and we were lucky we had a room complete with a spa bath. Rather they were lucky, cuz we would not have been happy.

The next day we headed back to Sunriver to stay at 30 Kinglet- our family favorite- and my parents had stopped over to bring our left-over food(and cake- lots of cake!) and presents. We snuggled under our marriage quilt my mom worked very hard on. We had the unusual experience of being married the Saturday after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. This made us not only more thankful for each other and for our families, but it also gave us a much needed break from the TV and Radio we had been constantly listening too since the Tuesday before.

This year is our 9 year wedding anniversary, which is 3 days and 3 years after the anniversary of our first date(that means we have been together 12- years! Gasp!). We celebrated early- on Saturday- by going up to the Gorge and hiking the triple falls. Jeremy's lovely sister was available to watch our kiddos and we enjoyed our time together. Its amazing how a few hours away from our wonderful kiddo's can give our relationship the much needed renewal and remind us of our friendship and commitment to each other.

Here is hoping for another 9 years. I love you Jer!

Surgery Questions and tender moments

2010-09-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

The kids have been thinking a lot about Kathryn's surgery next month. I under estimate how much they overhear me talk about it- and they hear me talk about it over and over since I have updated several friends and family over the past week, so it must feel huge and scary to them.

Tonight Nathan asked Jeremy if Kathryn would have a scar. Jeremy told him yes. Nathan asked if it could be shaped like a lightening bolt. I told Jeremy to remember to ask the surgeon that.

He came in a bit later to talk to me more about Kathryn's surgery.
Nathan: Mom, how will they open her up mom?
Me: They will use a scalpel that will be sterile and clean to open her.
Nathan: Is it like a knife?
Me: Yes. It is like a knife. The doctor is very good at his job and will take very good care of her.
Nathan: Is it sharp?
Me: Yea, I think it is pretty sharp.
Nathan: Will Kathryn cry because it hurts so bad?
Me: No, Nathan, Kathryn will be asleep and have special medicine so she won't remember the surgery. She will wake up and feel some pain, but won't remember anything the doctors did to her. She will probably cry after the surgery, but not during.
Nathan: Will you be with her at the hospital?
Me: Yes.
Nathan: Where will we be?
Me: Your Grandma(not sure which one yet) will be here with you in the morning and take you to school. After you get home from school Daddy will come and get you and bring you to see Kathryn at the hospital. I think she will like to see you. You make her happy, and that will brighten her day.
Nathan: That makes me happy we can see her Mom. She sure must love us because I sure love her. I hope she is going to be OK mom.
Me: Nathan, she has very good doctors. Kathryn will have a blessing the night before. Mommy and Daddy love her and you and Leila so much- we will always take care of you to make sure you will always be strong and healthy.
Nathan: I love you mom. We will keep Kathryn in our prayers every day.
He then kisses me and bounds off to bed where he relays our conversation to Leila in the top bunk.

This conversation took place with him nestled in my arms, squirming around, his eyes big and concerned. The love he has for his sister is moving. We will get through this-- as a family-- and be stronger for it.

Meal Planning = Saving Money!

2010-09-09T15:08:00.000-07:00

I am a list maker. I love my calendar. I write out things I am thinking through and I have my own little methods to compartmentalize and deal with my issues. I am not the most organized person in the world, but what I do brings me great comfort.

Money has been tight lately and I am panicking with the future of our bills increasing and my income decreasing. So, I started making several lists-- Sunday I did something I haven't done all summer long: I made a meal plan, with my grocery list to the right of it. I got all the way through next Week. Yay for me!

Funny thing is, I went and bought food from my list, which included meats and cheeses among other items that are usually costly, and I spent less than I have been spending. This means, if I stick to my list and buy the meals I have planed for, I saved some money! Double Yay for me!

I would love to coupon, but I just can't get it down. I have friends and a sister who save HUNDREDS of dollars a month on couponing, but for whatever reason I just can't figure it out for me. So I go to Winco, which has pretty good pricing, and I feel satisfied with my efforts.

So, I know its boring and mundane, but it really has helped make my week easier. I am amazed at the comfort it gives me to look at what I have already planned and figured out at the start of my day, so I don't have to stress, or even think about at the end of my day. My kids couldn't care less, but my husband appreciates my cooking. I usually try to cook up extra for his lunch the next day- and depending on the meal and my ingredients on hand maybe another batch to freeze for a future meal. Nathan is my very picky eater, so gets salad most days. I am not a short-order cook.

Here is my plan:
Monday: bbq chicken & noodles (Super yummy and enjoyed with friends)
Tuesday: tacos(kids will always eat with us)
Weds: Beef stew & Salad(One of Leila's favorites)
Thurs: Spaghetti, bread, salad
Friday: BONUS DAY- Dinner at moms!(I am taking rolls)
Saturday: Chicken & potatoes
Sunday: Soup & Rolls & Salad
Monday: Burgers & Pasta Salad
Tuesday: tacos
Weds: Crock-pot chicken, bread, salad
Thurs:Caribbean Pork & Rice
Fri:

I think if I could get a good three to four weeks worth of individual meals, I could just interchange them on a fairly routine basis. But to do that, I need serious help- any ideas on easy menus?

My family has a recipe blog- nothing fancy- but fun for us to look at: http://familyrecipes-meganconser.blogspot.com/

First Day of SCHOOL!

2010-09-07T13:15:00.000-07:00

The kids were so excited for school!

Well... Leila was. Nathan wasn't so much. I couldn't coax a smile out of him for anything. He and I went and got donuts for breakfast for the family this morning, and that certainly helped. I am thinking this might become a tradition- he is our early riser and we have plenty of time to go pick out a dozen donuts and be back before the others are up.

Nathan thinks Kindergarten is boring. In his words, the only good thing about kindergarten is they got to go outside and play. Leila thinks 1st grade is just a little bit harder than kindergarten, but mostly the same. She LOVES it, as we knew she would.

We took our annual walk down to the school, with all the cars backed-up we are glad we are able to walk to school on first days(and any other day when it doesn't rain).

It will be a fun year to see how they both settle in. I can't beleive I had a 1st grader and and kindergartener! Nathan is going half days thru next week, then he will be in full day kindergarten. He was also accepted into the two-way immersion program, so expect my kiddos to be speaking some spanish to each other soon!

I love these kids-- LOVE THEM!

Sweet Seven

2010-09-04T19:31:00.000-07:00

Our sweet Leila turned 7 today! Its hard to believe I have now been a mom for 7 years. Its even harder to believe how beautiful she is and how much she has grown.

I always wanted to be a mom. The weeks and months before Leila was born I would dream about the moment we would meet face to face. In my dream my husband would bring her to me and her eyes would look up and lock on mine.

On Sept. 4th, 2003 that exact thing happened. She is simply my dream come true.

Happy Birthday Leila! You are our Angel Girl! We are crazy about you!

The New "Do"

2010-09-03T22:22:00.000-07:00

She grew out her bangs for a long time... and now she has a new do to show for it. Just in time for a new school year, and a whole new age.

Isn't she LOVELY?

Date Set

2010-09-02T13:22:00.000-07:00

We have a date set for Kathryn's surgery- its Oct. 25th.

Its been a very hard week to figure this out. We have been on the fence about proceeding, or waiting. Pros and cons with both actions. We called the insurance and the cost is huge. We realized the decision would be much easier if cost were no issue and decided to take that out of the equation altogether. I have been prayerful, I have been logical, I have been thoughtful. I have been seeking advice from those who understand medical issues, understand my concerns, understand how hard it is to be a parent. I just wasn't sure what to do.

Then last night Kathryn came down with another UTI and the urgency to get this little girl better is all consuming. She is hurting and miserable. As nice as it is to cuddle my baby, its not nice knowing she is in pain and unhappy and damage could be happening to her tiny organs right now.

So--- the date is set. We are going to take care of you sweet baby girl.

Little Miss Kathryn Goes to the Hospital!

2010-08-27T14:52:00.001-07:00

So cute in her PJ's provided by the hospital- of course all the nurses fell in love with this little cutie- how couldn't they?

Thursday we took Kathryn in for her second VCUG- and hopefully her last. When we came around the corner to her little cubical in the children's surgical center at the Gerry Frank Center at St. V's and there was a new teddy bear and a sticker with her name on it waiting for her. She quickly introduced "pearly" to Elmo and had them kiss complete with kissy noises made by her. We changed her into her hospital provided PJ's, which were very soft and cuddly and waited for the nurse to come take vitals.

When we had the VCUG when she was 5 months old they took us directly back to the procedure. Since she is older and definitely in need of some help with her anxiety we choose to get her some versed. It worked wonders. Not only does Kathryn have anxiety in general with other women, she wasn't too comfortable in this setting. She knew something had to be up! She refused any vital taking. After the drugs got in her system(orally) 10 minutes later we were able to get her vitals taken to make sure she was OK for the procedure. She got pretty silly and laughed at a lot of things- especially Daddy- and the nurse didn't bother her one bit. We found out the nurse has a daughter named EllaKathryn. How cute is that?

The VCUG was a bummer- the meds calmed her, but she still felt pain. She still fussed the entire time(we tried to distract with an Elmo DVD, but it wasn't enough). You know how it feels when your baby gets a shot and they look at you with those eyes, wondering why you allowed someone to inflict pain on them? Try to do that for 40 minutes straight. I am thankful I was allowed to be in there with her. I did cry a bit with her too. Poor poor baby. Thankfully the drugs have an amnesia effect and she won't be remember any of this.

Back in her cubical she was able to relax and have a Popsicle. She was very happy for that, but very grumpy and clingy. And that is OK. After vitals again we were able to dress her, collect the results and head out to meet with her doctor. We had a little time in-between(not enough to get home and relax though)and Jeremy and I had strange visions of actually getting to go somewhere nice to eat, but our darling didn't want to get out of her car seat, so we settled for drive-thru, a drive out in the country, and headed back to the Doctor.

The Doctor said the reflux on the left side is actually improving, but the kidney is not growing. He is worried about the non-growth on this kidney and suggested we go ahead and do the surgery to correct the reflux to give us two things: 1-it might help the kidney start growing, 2- it will definitely keep her from having more infections and preserve and protect the state of her kidney at this point. He said we could wait another 6 months and see if the reflux improves anymore, but if it were his child, he would go ahead and take care of it. The good news is that this surgery is 99% successful. We would check by ultra sound a month after the surgery to make sure everything is OK. If it looks good we would check again in 6 months and again at 1 year. If it looked good at the 1 month mark she could go off the antibiotic treatment she has been on since last summer. We talked about another option that didn't sound as successful. Her right kidney hasn't changed much, but he isn't worried about it, since its only a level 2.

So we have a lot to think about and decide. I want to discuss with her pediatrician too. But mostly I just want a healthy baby. The thought we could be done with all this very soon is a relief. I just want to make sure I am making the right decision for her and for our family. When we do decide to go forward the Doctor schedules his surgeries out about a month.

I haven't discussed my feelings or emotions about her situation since her ultrasound the beginning of August. I would like to say I have been a strong woman with immovable faith and have little concern. But, as I am writing this story out for my posterity I want them to know I am afraid. When I found out Kathryn's kidney wasn't growing and it was in fact shrinking my heart broke. I know she is healthy and strong, but something inside of her isn't right, and its up to me, her mommy to make sure it gets fixed. The responsibility of that feels huge and back on August 2nd(the day of the ultrasound) it was huge and overwhelming to me. I have to say I am very thankful we discovered it quickly last summer as she was a baby. The funny thing is, as I tried not to talk about her issue and was putting on a brave front(and my way of doing that is denial), I found a few key people talking to me about it and helping me put into words my concerns and thoughts really did help. I am still quite anxious, but I feel better having the additional information and the expertise of the medical community.

I love this baby. Its an honor to be her mommy and I am thankful I get to take care of her. Thanks to so many of my friends and family who take care of me and the rest of my family so I can be my best.