The Thompson Tribune

NEW DAY, NEW BLOG,

2009-09-27T16:43:00.000-07:00

http://ourgoodideas.blogspot.com/

2009-08-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

I need to update the blog.

Odd?

2009-03-05T09:27:00.000-08:00

I guess my boys could like stranger things...
(I think Baysil is going to love this too).

Sick Day

2009-02-17T07:46:00.000-08:00

Our little Hank is sick today. He's got a stuffy nose, a small fever, and I'm guessing a bad sore throat from the way his cough sounds. He woke up, drank some apple juice and was back to sleep. I hate it when my boys are sick. However, at the same time, I love the excuse to stay home all day! I'm going to bake bread and clean out my fridge. I'm NOT looking forward to cleaning the fridge. I DO enjoy grinding wheat and baking bread.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

From us to you, Happy St. Valentine's Day! We're certainly feeling the love here. Yesterday Tyler brought home 15 white and red tulips from Pike's, along with a SUBSTANTIAL gift card to these restaurants. He 'won' the gift card at work, but really he earned it. This morning I made all the men in my life heart shaped pancakes. Hank loved it. Mack requested, "No. No pictures please." Sorry, I didn't take a picture of Tyler. He was looking TOO good and I just didn't want to share him (plus he was sportin' bed head and PJ's?).

We've got a lovely day ahead of us: Meeting up with Nathan and Amy at the Pacific Science Center to watch an IMAX. Dinner will be heart shaped meatloaf at home and then Tyler and I are going to the Orchestra. Followed by some kind of fancy restaurant dessert. Love is in the air!
(I would like to defend this cheesy post by pointing out that it is Valentine's Day, and therefore mushy, cliche posting is perfectly acceptable.)

Who's In?

2009-02-12T09:09:00.000-08:00

I just saw this project over at Apartment Therapy. I really want to try it. Anyone else want to give it a shot with me sometime in the near future? I have NO idea where I'd put the darn thing...

2009-02-10T08:58:00.000-08:00

For the last two nights in a row, it has snowed at our house. It is snowing a little bit right now, and I LOVE it! We woke up Mack last night to play in it, and he was an absolute pill to put back to sleep. Maybe we'll try again in a few years so he's hopefully old enough to remember "that one time when my awesome parents woke me up to play in the snow".

Henry's ONE!

2009-01-16T09:23:00.000-08:00

Henry on his birthday morning, stealing his brother's toys.

I know we've got our share of updating to cover, but I thought I'd start with the most important. Henry celebrated his 1st birthday back in December. What you didn't get an invitation? Don't worry. We've decided to throw Henry a party on his half birthday. Two days after Christmas is too crazy (plus we were out of town). I figure we'll keep celebrating his half birthday until he's old enough to decide for himself. Besides, what kid wouldn't want two birthdays?
Since we were at my parents house, we celebrated Henry's 1st birthday the same way as Mack's, by going to LEGOLAND! We all had a blast, especially the birthday boy and his brother.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
1. Mack and Hank on their first ride of the day 2. Mack and Aunt Karly 3. The birthday boy and his proud Mommy 4. Mack helping Henry on their favorite part, the Duplo toys 5. Tyler crammed in the duplo train with the boys 6. Henry's working on that hands and knees crawling thing 7. Tyler tries to fit on the airplane, there is no 'max height' 8. Mack as a pilot, living the dream 9. Mack almost loved waiting in line, as much as the rides themselves 10. The birthday boy again 11. Mack loved miniland and wanted to see EVERYTHING!

After a long day of fun, we came home to cake and presents. Henry has a slightly unorthodox crawl, so I made him a snail cake and Granny did us the honor of writing on it. After opening all of his gifts I gave Hank the entire head of the snail, for him to "go at it" and make a mess of himself. He had other ideas, and decided to EAT the entire thing.

1. 2. 3. 4.
1. Henry decided to see what would happen if he threw his cup 2. I don't know what to say about this... 3. Hank with his snail cake 4. Notice how there is NO cake left on his tray

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2008-12-21T19:39:00.000-08:00

Fern whipped up these costumes for the holiday season. She's amazing! Mack loves to run around saying "Run, run as fast as you can, you can't catch me I'm the Ginger Bread" He leaves off "man." We promise to update the blog after the holidays.

Almost Like Daddy

2008-10-19T21:08:00.000-07:00

Mack's new trick is to go potty standing up.....just like daddy. To do this, he stands on his tip toes and leans over. Usually 80% of the potty makes it into the bowl. Not bad huh? Well yesterday, I came downstairs only to find Mack in the kitchen completely naked going potty in the red bucket that had been used to mop the floor only 15 minutes earlier. He exclaimed "I go potty, just like daddy!" I tried to think if I had accidentally gone potty in a bucket recently...thinking....thinking.....thinking......nope. We're still working on potty etiquette.

Obama-Shmobama

2008-10-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

Like a lot of people, we watched the debate Wednesday night. I guess a couple of things they said had Mack contemplating politics the next morning, because he had Obama on the brain. He was goofing around playing with duplos as I was dressing Henry, when he suddenly stopped dead in his tracks, looked over and stated, "Henry Obama!"
"Henry who?" I asked.
"No. Henry O-BABY!" declared Mack, with that devilish little half grin on his face (the same one Tyler gets when he thinks he's being really clever). He was pretty proud of his little pun. But who wouldn't be? I expect great things from this kid.

Email Out Blog

2008-10-03T11:37:00.000-07:00

Behind me right now, the boys are having snack. It's a little late because Henry took a while to fall asleep for his morning nap today. They're both eating puffed wheat and cheese. I am SO GLAD that Henry is starting to eat more of the same foods as Mack because it means I can use half as much of my brain thinking about what to feed the boys and devote that part of my brain to thinking about other things, like how dirty my stairs are...
We're looking forward to conference weekend around here. Saturday the YW are coming over to watch the morning session in their PJ's and eat cinnamon rolls. I'll count the activity a success if more than two girls come.
Blogging lately is really tough because it requires energy I simply don't possess. Lately, Mack has been a ball of energy. It could be worse. He isn't destructive or dangerous, but he is loud and in constant motion. He spent yesterday morning running from the kitchen to the living room whispering under his breath, "I'm race car, I'm a race car". Right now, he has just finished his snack and is using Henry's high chair as a jungle gym, while tickling Hank's feet with his nose. Henry is trying to kick him in the face. Also Mack has discovered the joys of going to the bathroom standing up! It has come in handy when we're downtown and he uses the public restroom, but at home there are a few issues.
At 9 months old, Henry is finally mobile! I guess you'd call it an army crawl, but really it looks more like swimming. He reaches out in front of him as far as he can (which isn't very far) and then uses his head as leverage. It's all very confusing, but it gets him where he needs to go. The swimming he reserves for short distances or "detail" work, while rolling is still his main mode of transportation. Kinda like a Hybrid. He's also becoming more chatterbox like ( he's still no chatty kathy), and is starting to push Mack away when he's doing something he does not like, such as put stickers behind his ear.
The craziest thing is how much the boys look alike! They make the same faces, have the same pudgy fat cheeks and both LIGHT UP the instant Tyler walks through the door after work. It really is hard to tell them apart in pictures and it's even freakier now that Henry is moving up a size in clothes. He has always worn Mack's hand-me-downs, but it seems like just yesterday I was storing some of these things away! Henry and Mack really are best friends and I just LOVE seeing them play together ( or watching Mack attack Henry. Depending on how you look at it).

Thompson 101

2008-09-20T08:39:00.000-07:00

I was just emailed these pictures of Henry from when we participated in his latest 'round of research'. This was a different type of ERP for a speech study. One with the Binky and one without. There's a good reason the hand in his mouth: He's currently working on THREE teeth at once. Oy vey! He's got one tooth on the bottom, with the other one just cutting through and the two on the top are neck in neck. My poor boy is quite cranky lately and if you try to massage his gums he screams bloody murder.
Henry is rolling around everywhere and loves playing with all of Mack's toys. Mack doesn't mind sharing, but he still takes every thing away from Hank because he doesn't think it's safe for him to play with his toys. I usually end up having to put out a little mat we call "Henry's Area". Mack (for the most part) knows he isn't allowed on it and which translates to him being unable to torture his little brother too much. Mack started swimming lessons two weeks ago and is doing pretty well. His class is twice a week in the evening, so Ty and I get to rotate who takes him. I think he has more fun with his Daddy, but Tyler swears I'm the better teacher. Mack has learned to go 'under the water' no sweat, but needs a little encouragement in the 'blowing bubbles area'. He pretends to swim around the living room by reaching with his arms, but his favorite part of swim class is kicking the water and splashing the other kids and parents.
If you want to know some of what Ty and I have been up to, it might be best to read my friend Amy's blog. I swear she posts better about what we've been doing (see SHREK and JET CITY). Amy and I are also taking an Egyptian Belly Dancing class on Monday nights, which is a BLAST! Our teacher, Rishi, is great and we had a lot of fun at Pikes buying our hip scarves for class. Ty is doing well at work and was recently "promoted". The boys and I love going downtown to meet up with him durring the day once a week or so. Mack sincerly loves Seattle! He can name all of the major landmarks of the area and Tyler is working on teaching him more geography (he can--usually--point out WA and CA on a map, along with San Diego and Seattle). Yesterday he taught him the capital of WA. He's also quite the little politico and can point out both Barry Obama and John McCain in a crowd.
It's raining here today, and I have to admit, I'm quite excited about it. I can't wait for Halloween and the start of the Holiday Season. Mack changes his mind daily about what he wants to be for Halloween. This morning he wants to be Tarzan (which is what I call his little duplo man that came with his duplo dinosaur set). A couple days ago he wanted to be a 'couch man' that 'flies on the ceiling'. You can't make this stuff up. Henry is going to use the pumpkin costume I made for Mack's first Halloween when we lived in Monterrey.
Today, we're hoping to pick apples, or at the very least eat some pie. Wish us luck!

Post 100

2008-09-08T08:17:00.000-07:00

Sorry in advance about another lame, short, post, that's not even a real update. Especially for number 100. I just can't seem to muster up the motivation to write anything longer. Rest assured we're very busy and having a wonderful Summer.
Yesterday morning Tyler walked into the living room to find Mack sitting ON Henry's lap (not in front of it), trying to make Hank read him a book. Ty says they we're both lovin' it. Our lazy little Hank has started to get around a bit. He's not quick, but he gets where he wants to go through a series of rolls, mingled with a bit of twisting and turning. He's not a huge talker most of the time, but seemed to think yesterday during Church would be a good time to exercise those vocal chords. We thought it was cute, and didn't mind since he dosen't do it that often, so we just took turns taking him out. Gotta love that baby gabber.

2008-09-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

Tyler went and got donuts this morning for breakfast. Mack stuck his finger in the chocolate bar Ty got for me and then put his chocolaty fat finger in my face and told me to "Eat it, Mommy." Twice.

Brainiac

2008-07-31T09:21:00.000-07:00

Henry has a brain, and we have PROOF (not that I ever really doubted it, but not many people have proof positive they have a brain). I recently enrolled him in an autism study at UW. He is part of the control group, which means he has an older sibling who does not have autism and no family history of the disorder. It has been really interesting. There was a lot of over the phone screening, asking about our family's medical history. The first day at UW they put some toys in front of Henry and watched him play with them and took notes about how he picked things up and specifics concerning his development. Then he played on the floor, and they took notes on that and how he sat up, etc. Henry is not the LEAST bit interested in being mobile (Mack is entertainment enough for him) so they took some notes about how he was a little blob and rolled over in SLOW motion. Then he was shown some images on a TV. There would be a picture of a sun in the middle of the screen, and then a balloon would show up on the side and they'd see how long it took him to notice the image to the side. I was told this was checking his peripheral vision. They recorded everything and Henry was very patient throughout the entire ordeal. The next day Henry had his ERP visit. This one I didn't completely understand, but I do know that they put this funny little net on his head with a bunch of little sensors on it. I think it measured the the activity of his brain. I do know that it only works in one direction so it is completely safe for his little noggin. I also know he looked darn cute because the chin strap wouldn't go under his chubby little cheeks! Mack came too and had a fun time playing with some undergrads while Henry worked hard. Needless to say they both took some great naps after everything was done.

On Friday night we had the main event: Henry's MRI at Children's. It was during his regular sleep time, so there was not sedation or anything like that, he just went to "bed" in the machine. The man running the study explained to us that they believe and have some evidence to prove that children with autism have synapses (I believe that's the word) in their brain that develop slightly differently between ages 6 and 12 months, he also mentioned something about the size of their brain. I don't want to get too into it because I know it can be a really heated discussion (and those are best had in person). I will say however, that this guy knows his stuff, he's SMART. Henry only woke up a couple of times during the scan and in the end they were able to get the two different kind they needed. It was really interesting to sit in on an MRI with a healthy baby, which not many parents are able to experience, so we felt really lucky. Meanwhile, Mack was hanging out with our friends, Amy and Nathan, who were introducing him to the ice cream. We'd tried giving it too Mack a few times before, but the darn stuff was always too cold for his liking. Not this time. To say he loved it would be a gross understatement. It's really turned out great though, because I've managed to transfer that affection to yogurt (which he refused to eat before). Now, Mack loves eating "ice cream" for breakfast.

The next week we had an appointment for our "Parent Observation". Henry and I were placed in an empty room with a small blanket on the floor, a few toys, and surrounded by cameras--then I was told to play with him naturally like I would at home. I did my best. Our next visit was a repeat of the images on the TV screen. He wasn't as interested this time around, seems eating my hair was much more riveting. After that was had the grand finale! One of the researchers, went over all of Henry's "Test Results" with me. He passed! No, I don't think there is a pass or fail, but he is perfectly normal. The best part is as she is seriously discussing his social skills, and cognitive skills, and different abilities and developmental milestones, etc...Henry was sitting on my lap determined to eat his own feet. As if his very existence depended on it, he had to get those feet into his mouth or die trying! What a baby! Henry will have another ERP in few weeks. In the meantime I'm planning on printing the images from his MRI onto a T-shirt.

My Wonderful Wife

2008-07-15T20:22:00.000-07:00

Did anyone out there how great Fern is? I'm sure most of you do but I thought that I'd take a few moments and tell you.

What I like most about Fern...that she is MY wife and no one else's. When I come home from work she is there to for me. Usually she tells me how great I am (which isn't usually true) and handsome I am....again not entirely true. She is hot, sexy and beautiful. I still want to see her dressed up for some sort of ball (dancing ball not the sport kind)....I guess I need to arrange that. Also, she is smart, quick and wity....all hard things to have an argument against...i still think she should go to law school.. Fern is a great mom...(i.e. Mack and Henry are awesome). She has so much patience for her boys...me included. I love her because she can laugh, smile and just chill all with me. Her smile is great and when she says also...it is really "aso"...no "l". But its cute. She has quirks like we all do...but hers are cute. She blows her nose until its raw, she loves to garden even if there is not room for a garden, she insists on using a small spoon with certain things....i always question it, but secretly I love it. She lets me watch sports...lots of sports and she doesn't make fun of me when I like to watch Project Runway and that dancing show on Fox (8pm....9p Central on Wednesdays). She helps me no matter what and I love her more each day.....I Love you.

2008-07-01T14:58:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting down to the computer about to work on my lesson for YW on Sunday. Tyler has just gotten home and changed Mack's poppy diaper from nap time.
Mack walks up to me with the diaper in his hand and holds it up to my face, "My poop in there mommy! My poop in there!"

Getting Ready

2008-06-20T09:31:00.000-07:00

Mack has picked up a couple of funny phrases lately. I thought I'd share them before we left for our camping trip, because I know by the time we get back he'll be on to bigger and better things.
So for example:

When I tell him it is time to go to the toilet he says, "No potty today mommy. Maybe later."
The other day I asked him he he wanted a snack and he answered, "Not right now mommy, I too busy. Maybe later."
Just right now he's eating breakfast outside on the deck (a little late) and he called inside to me "More bagel peas! And Peanut butter on it." He loves Peanut Butter and asks for it on EVERYTHING (even green beans), and he still eats it like he did right here, by licking the Peanut Butter off first.
He's been trying to take care of me, by getting right up in my face and lovingly offering me things like "You want a water?" or when offering a granola bar "You wanna eat it?"
Last night as I was packing he came up to me and requested a round of skina-marink-a-dink-a-dink by putting his little pudgy hand on his elbow and asking, "Skidinka mommy?" Kinda hard to translate into type, but it had both Tyler and me laughing pretty hard.
He thinks I do everything "Really good". Last night as he was eating dinner he looks up at me and says, "It's REALLY good mommy. REALLY GOOD." Earlier in the day while I was making him and Henry slippers for our camping trip he told me, "You make it good mommy. Make it really good."
Last one: Last weekend we went to the drive in and took the kids in their PJ's. Mack had an awesome time and now when it's time for bed he asks us, "Jamies in the car?"

Okay he just did one more...He had an accident of a certain kind and and is calling it "Football Poop". How fun for me!

Un-Post

2008-06-17T10:15:00.001-07:00

We Thompson's try to keep a low profile, here in the fabulous Northwest, but our adoring public just won't leave us alone...

I could go back and give a recap of what a busy summer we've had so far. I could tell you all about our awesome trip down to San Diego, the great time we had at Legoland, Disneyland, and Balboa Park. Or Maybe some pictures of Mack and Henry out on the boat in the Bay. I could tell you about how Henry cried on the plane the entire flight down and slept the whole way back. Then I would probably mention how "nervous" (his word, not mine) Mack was and how he insisted the we keep the window closed the entire flight. I could even tell you how much Mack and Hank L.O.V.E.D. having their Granny all to themselves for a day at Legoland, and all the fun they had ridding the boat, plane, truck and train rides. I might even tell you how enamored Mack was with his Grandpa Kim and how he still talks about his truck, and other various modes of transportation, every single day and asks me every morning "Where's Grandpa Kim?"
But if I told you about all of that, then I'd need to go even further back and write about Mack's neat-O birthday at the Seattle Center. About how it rained and we had to move the party inside to the Center House, but nobody seemed to mind, especially not Mack when he got his new "Big Bike" (which is actually a tricycle). Then I'd be obligated to mention a little about Tyler's trips to Pittsburgh (where he saw my brother, Elder Porterfield) and Philadelphia (where he ate a lot of cheese steaks). And there is NO WAY I could give an update without mentioning my the end of my Tap Dance class I've been taking with my bud Amy and the AMAZING recital we had at the end. Then, last of all, I'd say something about Mother's Day and Father's Day and what a wonderful time Tyler and I each had watching the other one do all the work and change all the diapers for an entire day (of course I'm kidding). But I won't (Didn't see that one coming did you?).

BIRTHDAY BOY!

2008-05-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to MACK! He's growing up so fast. I can't believe how much he's changed in the last couple months. Having Henry has really turned Mack into a great big brother and helper. His speaking abilities continue to blow us away on a daily basis. He repeats everything he hears, so be careful what you say. He's learning what friends are and can tell the difference between "2, 6, 9, 10!" and "ABC's". We couldn't have asked for a smarter two year old, and as for looks--well that goes without saying! :)

Mack at birth, six months and 1 yr old, and 1 1/2 yrs old. Even at birth he was too big for the hospital bassinet! He had his two yr check up this week and he's holding steady at 3ft tall and 31.5 lbs. Henry was all smiles for the doctor and weighed in at 15 lbs, 2ft "long". What a great pair!

Kids Just Love to Brush

2008-05-02T08:17:00.000-07:00

Mack recently experienced his first visit to the dentist and it was completely tear free. In fact, he's even been asking to go back, and I owe a great deal of thanks to this little video clip right here (my favorite part is the "loud" slumber party at the end). Mack really impressed the dentist and hygienists with his smooth and oh-so-clever back and forth brushing technique. Hooray for teeth! Although, I do have a sneaking suspicion that this desire to return to the dentist's office may have something to do with the nifty glass elevator ride we took to get there.

Wii love it!

2008-04-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

We've moved...again. But this time it was just south a couple of blocks and we're luckily still in our same ward. The new place feels twice as big has 1.5 baths, stairs and what I'm told are great views of the Cascades, but I've yet to see them with all the clouds. We were lucky enough to have fabulous weather both the weekend before and after and then a stinkin' blizzard the very weekend we decided to move. Needless to say it was character building. Thank goodness for Nathan and Amy's connections in the area or else I don't know how we would have gotten the couch over here (I do know and it would have cost $$). Mack and Henry seem to really like the new place. There's a little boy down the street Henry's age and two more really close in age to Mack. He loves his "new friends!" and "buddies" as he calls them. I think I'll call them all "The Puddle Brigade". Tyler's and my favorite perks have to include the several hundred dollars we're saving in a cheaper rent and enjoying much closer parking. Tyler would also point out here that we can see part of the movie theater from our back deck (maybe this is the great view everyone is talking about?).
Last week at work, Tyler won a Wii for being the top dog for X number of days. Way to go Tyler! We NEVER had any intention of buying a system. I would always say, "That's something our kids can do someday at a friends house. I don't want one." Well, I guess I can eat my own words now, because I can't help it...I love the darn thing. It's AMAZING! We put the little things on Mack the other day and had him box. Funny stuff, arms everywhere.
I think this post reads similar to a phone conversation where there isn't really anything left to talk about (probably because I wrote it while taking breaks to give out breakfast, help Mack on the toilet, nurse Henry and put him down for a nap). So I'll finish by telling you about the weather. It's raining again/still, and I like it.

I almost forgot about the Easter Pictures...

Henry and Mack find their Easter Baskets, then pose next to their trophies as the true hunters they are.

Our feble attempts to get a good Easter Sunday picture. We simply try to get the kids next to each other then take as many pictures as we can, hoping one of them will turn out "good".

My Baby Takes the Potty Train -or- My Boy Wants to Potty All the Time

2008-04-11T19:04:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago--almost a month now--we decided Mack was ready to potty train. More than a few people were surprised at our choice to undertake such a huge task at his young age (about 22 months), but thankfully Tyler and I, as Mack's parents, are the the ones responsible and most qualified to make that decision. Okay, now that I've gotten that off my chest...
The potty training has gone relatively smoothly for us. I credit most of that to Mack being such a laid back happy kid, but some people have still asked me "How'd you DO it?" so I'll tell you:
It all started with a big family night trip to the store to pick up a little toilet for Mack. We marched--yes, marched--around the store until we found just the right one and then Mack proudly carried up to the front. After that we headed over to Target and picked up some poster board, car stickers, Teddy Grahams, and training pants (aka: extra thick underwear, not pull-ups). That night we suggested Mack try sitting on his new toilet (right next to our toilet) and danced and marched around while singing about how great toilets are, and how much we L.O.V.E. going potty and poop on the toilet. HOORAY! I made Mack a sticker chart and gave him a sticker for every time he sat on the toilet. The next day, he started out the morning in a diaper and I continued to have him sit on the toilet, until he we got the timing just right and he happened to go potty in it, for which he received some teddy grahams in a bowl (he loves getting snacks in a bowl). Once he did that, I put him in underwear and we've never looked back. We moved all Mack's books into the bathroom and basically lived in the there for the rest of the week. Mack and I didn't leave the house once until Saturday. It was tough, but I really think that if I'd given in and taken him out, or put him in a diaper, it would have been back to square one. One crucial "turning point" in the potty training was when we ran out of clean underwear. I let Mack run around the apartment bottomless and that seemed to really help him realize how everything "works". On that Saturday, Tyler took Mack to get sushi (my reward) and Mack used the toilet at the grocery store nearby (stripped down, sitting backwards). He went to church that Sunday in underwear and had no accidents, but didn't use the restroom either. So....several weeks later I wouldn't hesitate to say that Mack is daytime potty trained. He still uses a diaper at nap time and nighttime, but wakes up and uses the toilet then goes straight into underwear. He has a little trouble telling us when he needs to go, but has NEVER (knock on wood) had an accident while out of the house and when he does have one at home, he always realizes it as it's happening, gets us and then finishes on the toilet. As an added bonus, Mack has NO problem going poop on the toilet, and isn't afraid of flushing etc. We're so proud of our little kid! Just yesterday he used the toilet at the Science Center. Way to go Mack!
*2 Potty Training Stories*
Mack was sitting on his little toilet when Henry started to cry. I told Mack to sit still and I'd be right back. While I was in the living room for-I swear!- half a second. Mack went potty (I could tell because I heard him yell "YEAH!" and clapping his hands. As I stepped back in to the restroom, Mack lifted up the insert that holds the potty and, while attempting to dump the potty in the toilet, instead dumped the potty all over the floor. I didn't know what to do, so I simply threw up my hands, said "oh NO!" and started laughing. I told Mack to "Stay STILL", but he decided to walk over to the sink and ended up slipping on his urine and falling flat on his back (in a puddle of urine-remember). Meanwhile, Henry had started to cry again. Tyler walks in the door to find a crying infant, a puddle of urine, Mack in the bathtub, and me attempting to get ready to mop up the floor. He had been gone less than 5 minutes to pick up the mail, which is sometimes all it takes for chaos to take over, and a good reason to never leave your kids home alone.
Last night, Mack was in the bathroom supposedly pooping. I was in the living room nursing Hank, and Ty was in and out of the bathroom folding laundry. In an instant we hear Mack yell "YEAH!" and flush the toilet. We're assuming he went poop, but with this kid it's hard to be sure. Tyler hurries in to check everything--the toilet is empty and seems to be working fine. A little while later, he realizes the toilet isn't quite flushing right. Tyler managed to unclog whatever was blocking it. So either Mack had quite the poop, or I'm going to find out later that he is missing a car. I'm not sure which option I prefer.

Sorry it took me so long to finally finish this post! I promise to have an Easter post up sometime this weekend...and I REALLY loved meeting Rick Steves!

Best Friends Forever

2008-04-05T16:29:00.000-07:00

Fern and I had the honor of attending a Rick Steves travel class in Edmonds, Wa. He is a great speaker and a life long idol of Fern's. If you're not sure who Rick Steves is, click here.

P.S. Fern is almost done with the Easter post so stayed tuned...

We're too Tired to Title this Post

2008-03-15T13:51:00.000-07:00

Let me get this out the way and show you a picture of the beautiful loaf of egg bread I made a while back for dinner. Did I mention it was a weeknight? Nothing less than a Tuesday night mind you. I had to skedaddle to Mutual AND Tyler had signed us up for the missionaries. I'm expecting my medal in the mail any day now. That bread was good. I think I'll make it again tomorrow.

This is a picture we took of everyone from Tyler's side of the family together for Henry's blessing. My mom has some pictures up on the Porterfield blog of her and my Dad with the boys so I won't post them twice. I always leave these kinds of days wishing we'd taken more pictures. I don't think we got a single one of Tyler, the boys and me with my parents. I guess we were too busy having fun. It was great having my folks here and I really wish they could've stayed longer. We picked them up from the airport Saturday morning and bummed around Seattle. We went to Pike's and explored the shops underneath and across the street, including my Mom's favorite antique store down by the waterfront parking--you know the one I'm talking about. If you've never ventured beneath the main level of the market, you're really missing out. Next time you're there, be sure to check it out. There are a few good shops mixed in with some really odd ones. Once we were done there, we headed over to the Seattle Center to do all the things one does there. AND THEN, we drove up to our neck of the woods and got seafood for dinner. I'm not sure how Mack was able to stay awake for everything. It was Henry's first time out of the house for an entire day, and I think he took it pretty well. The next day was Henry's blessing and after church, everyone crammed into our apartment for Chili and Scones. Given that Ty's family aren't big sweets people, I was worried Scones wouldn't exactly be their cup of tea. But Tyler insisted it would be okay and the Scones actually turned out to be a big hit. Later that evening, after our bellies were full and everyone had gone home, it was time to take my parents back to the airport. Like I said, it was great having them. We loved taking them to do all our favorite things and can't wait for next time.

Here are my two little monsters taking an afternoon nap. Mack moved into the big boy bottom bunk bed a couple of weeks ago and it's been going pretty well. we have a few problems with nap time every once in a while. Mostly on weekends because he knows Daddy is home and he just wants to play so badly! Henry takes two GOOD naps a day, from 9-11am and 1-3pm, in addition to a cat nap or two in the early evening. He is still waking up to eat about 3x a night. Luckily he goes down for the night around 7pm and doesn't get up for good until about 7am the next morning.

We recently became members at the Pacific Science Center. Since Mack and Henry are still free, it's a great bargain for our little family. They have a wonderful toddler area along with a bunch of other great exhibits and my favorite -the Tropical Butterfly House. There is even a private little area for nursing if your little guy (like my little guy) feels like being a tad difficult that day. On our first trip to the PSC, Ty took Mack on one of the rides at the Fun Forest with some tickets leftover from when my parents came. Mack LOVED it, as you can tell from this picture. If you look closely you'll also notice that Tyler and Mack were matching that day. It shouldn't be hard to take advantage of our PSC memberships. I try to take the little men into "town" once a week. I tell Tyler it's my way of fighting the suburban hermit syndrome. I think he thinks I'm a little nuts. All I know is, the boys and I really enjoy getting together with him once a week for our special lunch.

I want to leave you with a little bit of an explanation for pictures Tyler posted on our last update. The ones of Henry with the blanket behind him were rejects from a little photo shoot we did in our living room for Henry's baby announcement. If those were the rejects you can just imagine how cute the announcement is going to be, so if you want one and you're not sure we've got your address, drop us a line. The profile shot of Mack with the ferry in the background is from a picnic we took two weeks ago (last Saturday was Ikea and dinner at Ty's folks' house), at the Edmonds Ferry Dock. We also took the photo shown above. It was Henry's first picnic, and we all had a good time watching the trains, boats and scuba divers and throwing in a few rocks.

Tune in next time for Adventures in Potty Training.

Pictorial Update

2008-03-06T15:49:00.000-08:00

UPDATE ME!!

2008-02-29T08:36:00.001-08:00

update me NOW!
okay, maybe not now but soon! find some stinkin' time!

This is for my sisters, and my Mom...

2008-02-06T14:36:00.000-08:00

Belated

2008-01-31T16:18:00.000-08:00

Some of you might be asking yourself, "What's this kid Henry like anyway?" "What does he like to do in his spare time?" Henry enjoys frequent cat naps, long nursing sessions, rides in his swing and kisses from his big brother. He does NOT like being having his clothes or diapers changed, gas, and nighttime. But most of all, he and Mack both love it when I dress them in matching or semi coordinating outfits. They haven't told me this themselves, but I can just tell. Some things, a mother just knows.

Sleeping,

then kisses,

followed by more sleeping.

Topped off with matching pajamas. (You try to pick just one picture of these boys sleeping in matching PJ's in the same crib. It's tough stuff!)

Yesterday, was Henry's one month check up. I decided to take advantage of the opportunity and dress the two little men in their "brother" shirts (thanks mom!). After the we got back, we had a photo shoot (Of COURSE!). The appointment went well, Henry's up to a whopping 10lbs 10oz. (That first picture is for you, Danna. Long live air-keyboard!)

I can now make rolls and scones. Rolls and scones like my Mom's. If you don't know or understand what a huge deal this is I feel sorry for you. If you've never had scones at my Mom's house, then you've never had a truly good Sunday afternoon. And a holiday without really good, soft and sweet rolls... it's just not a holiday. Next up: Cinnamon Rolls. Let's try and keep all these carbs between us friends and not mention it to the part of me that's trying to work out 3x a week and loose the extra baby weight. Deal?
Like a lot of people, Tyler and I have mixed emotions concerning the passing of our beloved prophet, President Hinckley. Anything we could write concerning his life's work and the impression he has left on us would be simply inadequate to say the least. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We're certain he's much happier and comfortable now and is surely doing a great deal of good in Heaven just has here on earth.

The First Haircut

2008-01-05T19:04:00.000-08:00

We finally worked up the courage to cut Mack's hair.

Henry's Home

2007-12-30T21:39:00.000-08:00

We brought Henry home on Friday the 29th. Luckily Fern's mom is here to make the transition from 1 kid to 2 easier (i.e. I don't have to wake up to change diapers). Here are some more pics of the lad:

Henry Allen Thompson

2007-12-27T11:49:00.000-08:00

Born on 12/27/07 @ 8:32 AM
7 lbs 9 oz---21 inches

Stay tuned for better pics...this was just a few minutes after birth!

A Merry Christmas Indeed

2007-12-26T12:10:00.000-08:00

Santa definitely came for Mack and me this Christmas. Fern gave me a TomTom GPS navigator that I love. I will never get lost again (not that I did before). Mack doubled his toy supply including a total of 14 new cars. I think he is in toy overload. When he came out of his room and saw his presents he said "Santa!" very matter-of-factly We spent 2 and a half hours opening presents, mostly because Mack only wanted to play with the cars he opened first. Fern got some pretty cools gifts too but lets face it full-term pregnant women are hard to shop for. Everything I got her was a hit except the embroidered slippers that she described as "fit for an 80 year old woman" Oh well, I'm a dad now which means I have to buy at least one lame gift. On Christmas Eve, Fern hosted a very successful party with tons of holiday snacks. We did the traditional nativity, ate open-faced sandwiches and performed a talent show.

Today we went in for Fern's amniocentesis to make sure the baby's lungs have developed so that she can be induced a week early (hospital policy). Everything went well and we are just waiting for the results. If the tests come back okay we will be having a baby as soon as they have room for us. So, that is the quick update and final update before Henry Allen is born!!!

We'll keep you posted....

Ho! Ho! Ho!

2007-12-17T19:53:00.001-08:00

Guess who we saw today! Santa! After weeks and weeks of walking past the "Big Guy" and talking him up to Mack as much as we could, it was finally time. Mack did great! He walked right up to Santa and even gave him a sheepish "Ho, ho, ho." We're very proud to say the least.

Here are a few shots from earlier today of Mack all dressed up with the tree before we ventured out in search of Jolly ol' Saint Nick.

And here is a little of what I have been up to (besides growing a baby, yada yada yada). Sewing. I've been making all sorts of different things, but these are the only three I can show you. Maybe after Christmas it will be safe to post a few pictures of the other things I've made lately, but I think by then we'll be too busy oohing and ahhing over Henry to care about stuff I made way back in December. The first picture is a Christmas banner and the next two are Christmas slippers. The pair on the left were for a friend of mine who had a baby two weeks ago, and the ones on the right are for Mack and have a layer of fleece between the inner and outer layer. My favorite part is that I made them all from scraps I was going to throw away.

In the way of less documented news, Tyler and I decided to treat ourselves to a night at The Edgewater Hotel last Friday night. It was my first time spending the night away from Mack and I can honestly say that --while I do love him--I didn't miss him at all. Tyler's mom, Karen, was nice enough to take Mack for the night last minute after Ty and I decided to book the room on whim through Priceline (aka: we got a great deal). Our stay coincided with a "carol off" downtown, where a bunch of organizations were attempting to out sing each other. It was very festive and we had an amazing time. I can't WAIT to do it again. Sadly, the next day Tyler and Mack both came down with very sore throats. Both have recovered and are doing well now, and I'm glad to get all the illnesses out of the way before Christmas. This is going to be my last post until at least the new year. Until then, I'm turning over all blogging duties to my (hopefully) competent and able husband, Tyler. If you have any specific requests, or complaints, you'll need to take them up with him. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Sankt Nikolaus Tag

2007-12-06T11:04:00.001-08:00

Today is Sankt Nikolaus Tag, and luckily, Mack has been a very good boy this year. Last night, after Mack had carefully placed his shoes by the front door, Sankt Nikolaus came and left him some goodies. A banana, kinder chocolate and a dinosaur mask. As you can see he was very excited about the chocolate and insisted on eating the banana right away. Unfortunately, he's not feeling 100% this morning and due to a little cold and hasn't really noticed the mask yet. I can't blame him, I don't like things strapped to my face when I have a stuffy nose either. If your wondering why he's all dressed instead of in his PJ's, it's because last night his diaper just wasn't up to job, as I discovered this morning.

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun! Here is Mack starting our homemade advent calender. I made your basic paper ring chain and then stapled some peppermint nougat candy to each link. The links are for Mack, and the candy is for Tyler. For us, Saturday was basically the perfect way to start December. Let me paint you a picture, or at least show you some pictures.
1st: I made blueberry muffins to start of our morning.

2nd: Mack sneaked into our closet, to reemerge wearing a pair of sneakers, a baseball cap and holding two packs of bias tape (for sewing). He was very proud of himself.
3rd: We picked up our Christmas Tree from a nursery about two blocks away.
4th: Mack took a nap while Tyler put the lights on the tree and I made Mexican Hot Chocolate. Yum. Then, Ty and I decorated the tree. This is our first Christmas we'll be spending at our own apartment, so we're VERY excited to have a tree and do all the decorating and preparation for Christmas.

5th: Mack woke up just in time to put a few finishing touches on the tree. He LOVED it! So far he's been very good at not touching the tree or breaking/playing with any of the ornaments. The only things he really goes for are the candy canes, two of which he broke in half this morning. I think the needles on the tree feel a little weird to him so he doesn't like to touch them, but he does seem to enjoy walking around the tree, gently touching each ornament with one little out stretched finger while I say "don't touch." I don't really mind him gently nudging the ornaments, but where do you draw the line with a 19 month old? I can't really explain to him "What you're doing there is fine, but please don't pick up any of them and throw them across the room just because they look like balls. And please don't grab onto the tree and knock the whole thing over." So we stick with "don't touch" and that seems to be working just fine.

6th: While we were finishing up the tree, we noticed it'd started snowing. So we bundled Mack up in his coat, hat, gloves and snow bibs and went out to play. As far as Mack's attitude towards snow, I think the pictures speak for themselves. Let's just say, it makes him a little uncomfortable...In case you haven't heard, we had a good 24hrs of snow and then it rained for the next 24hrs. Washington has had some serious flooding problems, there are a few roads closed around us and some people from the apartment complex came by and lined our patio with sandbags, but that's pretty much been it for us. People around here always assume that since we lived in San Diego, we must hate the rain and snow. Not true! We love the diverse weather here! I mean, I don't love it when people's home are flooded, but it is so nice to live in a place with all FOUR seasons.

Christmas is All Around

2007-11-28T11:47:00.000-08:00

Ever since Thanksgiving we've been busy preparing our little abode for Christmas and the new baby to follow soon after. Last night, Tyler agreed to put the lights up outside, if I would agree to make him hot butterscotch. Deal. We now have a freezer full of hot butterscotch concentrate, and multicolored Christmas lights all over our apartment. On Monday, I made my first wreath ever. It wasn't too hard thanks to a post-Thanksgiving sale at Jo Ann and my new handy dandy $1.99 hot glue gun. Then, later that night, it snowed! Mack was amazed and even caught a little on his tongue, but from the way he acted you would have thought it was snowing salt.

Not quite as exciting as snow: On Monday night, the cradle we'd ordered FINALLY arrived. I think it's a good investment, since Mack is still in the crib and probably will be for quite some time. Plus, Mack grew out of my Mom's bassinet so fast, I didn't think it was wise to spend any money on one. We'd originally ordered this thing back in October, to make a long story short, several vendors and manufacturing delays later, it finally turned up and I love it!

The final tidbit of news is that my Mom has started a family blog. It's called The Porterfield Perplexer. Rumor has it my Dad and Karly may soon be joining in on the fun and posting on the blog too. Welcome to the world of blogging Mom!

Glutton...

2007-11-26T12:37:00.000-08:00

Apparently, we've got some catching up to do. We'll start with two bath time shots. Everyone loves a cute little guy in a bathtub.

Naturally, after a nice bath a guy likes to looks his best. I know, as his mother, I'm bound to be a little biased, but really, he's got to be the best looking kid I've EVER SEEN!

In a time long ago, known as October, we celebrated Halloween. Mack loved Halloween. He loved walking around the pumpkin patch and meeting the animals. I think his favorite part of Halloween was scooping all the seeds out of the pumpkin. He practically had a melt down when it was time to get down off the table. On Halloween night, he had no problem walking up to strangers and taking candy from them (which could lead to problems down the road). On the way home from the trunk or treat I looked back to see he'd sneaked a piece of licorice, other than that, all his candy went to Tyler.

It finally happened, Mack finally had a timeout he did NOT enjoy. By the way, this timeout is in no way related to the pumpkin incident. I can't remember exactly what it was about, but I think it somehow involved the throwing of food.

Early in November, my sister-in-laws, Tonya and Monique, threw me a baby shower. Here I am with all my gifts. Hooray for presents! And with my new buddy Amy. The shower was lots of fun with lots of good food, it was great to see all of Tyler's family.

Thanksgiving wouldn't be Thanksgiving without pie. So I made six, and Tyler made one. We only took five over to Ty's parent's house and kept the rest for ourselves. Mack loved eating the pie almost as much as he loved helping me clean up the beaters. Looks like Mack has a little of his mom in him yet, he loves chocolate.

I also made the candied yams (big hit). I know what you're thinking, "Yuck, yams are gross". Wrong. If you don't like yams, then you've never had my family's yams. They'll change your life. Really.

There, I think that just about does it. All caught up. Next time: Christmas Stuff! I am so excited about Christmas!

2007-11-06T10:34:00.001-08:00

Mom, what about something like one of these?...

Noche de Brujos

2007-10-31T08:18:00.000-07:00

We took these pictures before Karen's annual Halloween Party about a week and a half ago. Mack decided to go as Pancho Villa, the Mexican Revolutionary general. I find the resemblance somewhat remarkable. Please note the mustache and bullets.

Mack won the Halloween Bingo contest and the award (puzzle) for "Happiest Pumpkin". Here he is enjoying his plunder, and yes that is my belly on the left.

The rest of these are simply pictures to appease the masses. "The Masses" being my family, both literally and figuratively).

Our little dare devil. Bet you didn't know Little Tikes tricycles could be so 'hard-core'. Don't feel bad, it's sorta an underground sport. Y'know, very minimalist, no brakes, no pedals, that sorta thing.

We've got the "Time Out" thing down. Now how do I convince him it's a bad thing?

Tyler found Mack enjoying the latest edition of U.S. News and World Report (No, we don't really like this magazine, but it's on the recommended reading list for the Foreign Service) with a nice snack of peas. The floor is a mess. Things are a mess in a lot of these pictures, but we refuse to vacuum more than once a day.

These pics are from The Seattle Center when Kassey and Will came to visit. I love these pictures! There really isn't much I can add to that.

And these are from our day in Vancouver, B.C. (not Washington). It is on this day, Mack discovered Seagulls, and the wonderful noise they make. He calls them "Birdy" and mimics them with an "EEEk, EEk!"

Happy Halloween everyone. Consider these pictures my treat to you for visiting our blog. And if you don't consider these pictures a treat, then I'm really not sure why you come to our blog in the first place...

Can You Believe This?

2007-10-24T22:09:00.000-07:00

This just absolutely disgusts me. Literally, these stories put a bad taste in my mouth...

BORDER PATROL PITCHES IN

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS SUSPECTED OF STEALING SUPPLIES

San Diego Fires

2007-10-22T20:32:00.001-07:00

I've been having a hard time finding good up-to-the-minute information about the fires in San Diego County. Maybe other people are too? If so, here are some good local sites I've found to be useful:

My family is currently in the "Estimated Advisory" evacuation area. Their air quality is (as far as I can tell) 6x worse than "bad", all of their schools are currently closed and the hospital my Dad works at is still open. I don't think they're planning on needing to leave the house any time soon and are harboring some evacuated families from the ward for the night. So I guess for now, all is well.
If anyone knows of any other sites or blogs with better or more current information, let me know.

5 minutes ago

2007-10-19T16:02:00.000-07:00

I'm in the bathroom brushing my teeth (don't worry, I brushed them this morning too) as we're about to head out the door. Tyler had remarked earlier when he got home about how tired I looked, so after I brush my teeth I look into the mirror and say, "Well, at least I don't look as bad as I feel. I feel like garbage." Then I turn and look at Tyler and ask, "So I look like...crap?" Tyler's answer: "What's worse? Crap or garbage?"
Neither, Tyler. The answer is neither.
You look beautiful never hurt anyone.

Innocent Mess

2007-10-18T08:50:00.000-07:00

Until yesterday, when Tyler and I asked Mack to go get a diaper he would come back with a diaper about 50% of the time. Not anymore. He's found something much more interesting. The wipes. Now he heads into his room, very obediently, and goes to the bin his under his bed where we keep the diapers and wipes. Pulls the top off the wipes and then, using only one wipe at a time, proceeds to wipe his nose over and over again until I come in and stop him and shove all the wipes back in the box (they only touched his nose, I'll use them again).
And while I was typing this post, Mack decided to pour his milk onto the coffee table (silly name since there has never been coffee on it).

Scrambled. Like my brain and Mack's breakfast.

2007-10-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

It feels as if I haven't posted in forever and I figure with Kassey coming in today I'd better get on the ball before things get even busier (is that even a real word?). Yesterday, we had a Dr.'s appointment and I was finally able to discuss my past history and really get to the bottom of things. For the moment, it looks like I'll be getting an amniocentesis at 38 weeks and hopefully inducing soon after that, as long as everything looks good for Henry. I also had my glucose screening test yesterday and should be getting my results back for that by this afternoon.
On Saturday, while Tyler was gone at the priesthood session I made the traditional "Conference Craft". Actually, the craft per say wasn't traditional, but what would Conference weekend be without some sort of crafty item to show for all this time spent indoors? That's right, just what every apartment NEEDS: a Halloween banner. I've seen these throughout the blogosphere so I can't take any credit for the idea, but I'll certainly be making more in the future. It only took about 2 hours from start to finish and cost about 3 dollars. How can you beat that? Best of all it was a much needed distraction from my real project, making Mack's winter pajamas. (But just in case I ever give one of these away as a gift or something I want you to know that I probably had to work REALLY HARD on that one. wink. wink.)

On Monday I tried making a cake with Diet Coke. I read somewhere on the internet that you can substitute all the eggs, oil and water in a cake mix with a can of Diet Coke, resulting in a cake with less fat and cholesterol etc. I've be absolutely craving cupcakes lately so I thought I'd give it a go and figured one can of Coke spread out through 24 cupcakes can't be that bad for me. I'm happy to report that they turned out WONDERFUL! Super moist, and I had to let them bake a minute or two longer, but they're great! So great in fact, that I had to freeze most of them to keep myself from eating half the batch in two days. Try it I say! For family night on Monday we went over to Martha Lake to try and feed the ducks with some stale bread I'd been saving. Little did we know it would be posted every 10ft "DO NOT FEED THE WATER FOWL". Bummer. But, to Mack's amazement, they did have bouncy cars. He's absolutely obsessed with cars lately and it's starting to drive me crazy. He points out every single car we see on the road, in stores, and in books. He even says "bye ta-car" whenever we leave the car to go into a store or wherever it is we happen to be going. I don't have any idea how this obsession came about. He has exactly ONE little green wooden car. I guess boys will be boys.

As part of my round about way of getting ready for the new baby, we bought Mack a new and better car seat. Here he is in his new Fisher Price Safe Voyage Deluxe. Isn't he handsome? I'm so much happier with this new seat. I've really become a bit of a car seat nut over the past couple weeks. I'm just now learning why it is so important to leave kids in a 5-point harness as long as possible and avoid boosters by any means necessary. Eventually Henry will get Mack's Fisher Price seat and Mack will then go into a high weight harnessed seat (ie: Radian 65). I want to encourage (without sounding preachy) any mom's out there to really research for yourself why extended harnessing is so important for your kid's safety. There are a lot of good resources out there, here's one or two to help get you started.

Weekends around here have been a blur. Last Saturday we decided to check out Salmon Days in Issaquah. Picture Swiss Days, but with fish, more people and a little less calico. We didn't eat any salmon (only two places with out of control lines), but we did spend a fair amount of time at the hatchery watching them climb the ladders. Mack was sufficiently impressed and I was shocked at how rude adults can be to kids who are just trying to get a good look. Relax people.
The Saturday before last was the Autumn Leaf Festival in Leavenworth. It's a cute little Bavarian-ish town about 2 hours away in the Cascades. The drive out was positively breathtaking. The town itself was cute and kitschy, but it did leave a little to be desired. I wish they'd teach the sales people in the stores basic German greetings such as "Guten Tag" instead of "Hey there, try some cheese!" We did get some decent Bratwurst and as we were leaving saw a troupe of what appeared to be middle aged, slightly overweight viking strippers. Looked like some lucky lady's night!
Speaking of Kassey, she set up a blog! Check her out HERE, and be sure to leave a comment to let her know you stopped by.

Tagged

2007-09-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged (thanks Katie!). Here are the rules:
A. List 7 habits/quirks/facts about yourself.
B. Tag 7 people to do the same.
C. Do not tag the person who tagged you or say that you tag whoever wants to do it.

People saying they'll do things and then NOT doing them really irks me. It's probably my number one pet peeve. Just say, "Sorry, I can't" or "That won't really work for me" or "I don't want to". Any of these options are better than lying.
I have absolutely no problem eating an entire package of Oreos. Not just a skimpy tube from the CostCo box, I'm talking the real deal here. The entire $2.50 slash 2 for $5 package of Oreos. The trick is running them under water as you eat them a'la my Dad. To be honest, I haven't done this lately due to my pregnancy and desperate fear of heart burn, but UNknocked up--no problem!
I may appear "crafty" to the untrained eye. I do sew, bake, cook, embroider, knit, and I'm working on canning) but I DO NOT SCRAPBOOK! I don't like it or any other "craft" involving paper such as making cards or stamping or anything of the like. I'd say I hate it, but my Mom taught me to try not to use that word. (I hope I didn't offend anyone, that is not my intention. You can scrapbook, just please don't ask me to participate.)
I currently have a baby product obsession. Which stems from my much larger "quirk" of retaining everything I read (it's both a blessing and curse). I know WAY too much about strollers and car seats and cribs and...you get the idea. The multitude of options and information is starting to stress me out. This is what happens when you combine nesting and a know-it-all.
Giving birth again petrifies me. I am definitely more scared the second time around. Each day a silent little part of me prays that this kid will be breach and I will have to have a c-section, thus avoiding having to make the choice between an early induction or c-section myself. I have NOT forgotten the pain of giving birth. Sometimes I think my doctor is listening to an ipod or something when I talk to her, like she doesn't "get it". Sorry to scare any of you are yet to give birth (Kassey). Just remember two things: 4th degree tears are very rare and to never let anyone take your pain medication away. Do this and you'll be fine. I hope.
I almost never read a book unless the author is dead. I think doing this saves me from reading a lot of junk.
I'm not sure if this counts, but for some reason people seem really surprised when they find out. I don't let Mack watch TV (even though I'm practically counting the minutes until The Office premier tonight), and I'm kinda a stickler about it. Also, he will not be attending preschool outside the home, and I NEVER let him have candy (even though I consider chocolate practically the most important meal of the day).

I tag (in alphabetical order): Angela, Bethany, Jill, Mary-Anne, and Tyler (gotcha!). I tagged all of you because I think you'll have some interesting stuff to share I haven't heard about before, which will in turn make for excellent nap time reading. I also want to tag Kassey and Kerin. I know you guys don't have blogs, but I really really really think you should! So please get one! And Danna, I think it's high time you and Dave set one up as well, but I don't think you'd really do the tag thing. But if you did want to, that'd be fine too. OkaLaka.

All's Well That Ends.

2007-09-19T08:13:00.000-07:00

All is well for the Thompson clan. On Monday we flew back from San Diego where I had been "teen-sitting" for my parents. They took on a nostalgic little trip down memory lane, visiting our family's old haunts in Germany. Of course, nothing has changed much since we lived there (When I asked my Dad if anything looked different he wisely pointed out to me that nothing has changed there for the past 300 years, so why start now?). I'm insanely jealous of my parents and can't wait to take Tyler back there someday and drag him around pointing everything out. He will of course pretend to be very excited and interested, because he loves me. While they were in Mohn, my folks discovered that our old landlady, Frau Schiltz had passed away back in 2002 (I just realized that my mom has been sending her Christmas letters, I wonder who got them?). Sad news for certain, but she was older and had certainly led an interesting life. But who will give the village children their daily chocolate?
"Teen-sitting" was an adventure. Menopause happens for a reason. Parents of teenagers are simply NOT meant to have a toddler and be pregnant. I don't know how my Mom handles that carpool schedule. It's insane! I spent an hour in the car every morning just getting everyone to school and seminary. Plus it's a well known fact that whenever I'm around a crisis seems to pop up. Including, but not limited too: my parents shower leaking through the ceiling into the kitchen after not being used for over a week, Georgia (the dog) breaking into the neighbor's yard Denise the Menace style, Mack bumping his face into the floor and getting so worked up he VOMITED all over me and the living room couch at the exact moment dinner was ready (don't worry he's okay). Luckily the calvary (Tyler) arrived just in time to get things back in order for my parents arrival home.
Now we're home and in the last 30 minutes Mack has asked me to read him his Dinosaur book at least 4 times. Could this be today's theme? Recent developments for Mack include the discovery that he LOVES walking backwards, walking on his tip toes with his hands behind is back, and twirling/dancing then falling down. He also sings the primary songs "Hello, Hello" and "Popcorn Popping" (no, I don't know the real name). When asked "Mack, do you want a little brother?" he firmly replies, "NO". I think we've got our work cut out for us.

How to Eat a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich:

Step #1: Separate the two pieces of bread comprising said sandwich.

Step #2: Smash jelly side of bread into your face.

Step #3: Laugh uproariously at the exquisite genius of your plan.

Step #4: Consume both parts of sandwich, grin, and wait to be hosed down.

What I'm Cooking

2007-09-09T14:40:00.000-07:00

This morning, before church, I threw some frozen chicken breasts, defrosted pork and fresh salsa into a crockpot. My intention was for it to come out in the end resembling something one might put into a burrito. This didn't happen. It is very watery and "soupy". I'm going to try adding some beans, tomato paste and chips. Hopefully, it will turn out somewhat resembling tortilla soup.

We had our ultrasound on Monday. Another boy for us! We got a very good look at little soon to be Master Henry Allen. Allen is my Dad's middle name and Henry is just a great boy name with an even better nickname- Hank. The ultrasound lady was a little rude. When she saw Mack she said, "So, you want a girl this time." Just like that, not even a question, a strait statement. Um, no. I want Mack to learn how to be tough and even more importantly, I want to use all of his adorable little clothes that he either never fit into, or grew out of after the first week (10lbs remember?).

Labor Day...my new favorite holiday

2007-09-03T20:13:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Labor Day 2007 by making two unusually large purchases. The first and cheaper of the two is a new sofa. Yeah, I know it's not too exciting but to me it's great. It means that I don't have to lay on our floor to watch football. Here it is:

Our next stop was Chuck Olson Kia in Shoreline to purchase a 2007 Kia Rondo. Actually we only pulled off to look casually but an hour later we were signing on the dotted line. Interestingly, the salesman was new and not very good....Fern knew more about the Rondo than him and her negotiation skills got us a good deal. Don't worry once the price was established, I took over and closed it out. Fern and Mack can now ride in style and comfort as I continue my quest to drive the Honda into the ground but she just keeps going. Here is a look at the Rondo:

This is the exact color...."Black Cherry"

We got the gray interior.

Mack was great the whole day and approved of the Rondo.

We spent Saturday at "the ocean" celebrating my mom's birthday. Mack loved the 50 degree water and spent an hour trying to build a sand castle. Fern made my mom an apron with Mack's hand prints. Needless to say, she loved it.

quick!

2007-08-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

I have until Mack finishes his breakfast to finish this post...

We went to Ikea on Friday and bought 3 lamps. In case you aren't as Ikea obsessed as I am (and few people are), they recently came out with their 2008 catalog and everything in it is AWESOME! Alright, maybe I'm exaggerating, a little. But we did decide that the Trofast system with drawers (new) is the perfect dresser to graduate Mack to, after his new sibling comes along and takes over his current dresser.

PLUS

So far, we think our new ward is great. There are a bunch of young couples in it that actually like kids! Imagine that! Our last ward didn't feel quite the same. I think they saw it as a sign of weakness or something. (Mack just finished breakfast)
I went to Fred Myer for the 1st time on Monday and we got lost on the way home.
We got library cards yesterday! The last time I had a library card we lived in Provo, so its been a while. Mack LOVES it there. He was running down the aisles screaming like a little girl. Tyler was wonderful and took him outside so I could finish up. But why wouldn't he be screaming? I mean seriously, there are books everywhere! BOOKS! Only his favorite thing in the entire world. Well, that and apparently the small wire whisk he has brought me 3 times since I let him down from breakfast.
I have a doctor's appointment with a real doctor today. NOT at the most dangerous clinic this side of the Mississippi.

Almost Weekend Update

2007-08-17T08:52:00.000-07:00

I realized I haven't given a solid update on here for a while so here goes. We stayed in Oakland just long enough to enjoy the Gilroy Garlic Festival and then high tailed it out of town. I flew down to San Diego, Jim (Ty's Dad) flew down to Oakland and Jim and Tyler drove up to Seattle, where they put all of our stuff in storage. Then Tyler flew down to San Diego and we all went to Kerin's wedding, which was amazing! I wish I had some pictures of it, but even if I did I wouldn't be able to post them because the camera charger has yet to be located...again. Her reception was on The Berkley, which is docked in downtown. My parents did a GREAT job putting everything together for it. Amazing food, great dancing, basically everything you could ever ask for. Plus, it was for Kerin and we all know she likes to do things BIG (including her hair and her dress). It was probably the most spectacular wedding I'll ever attend, until Kloe gets married, because let's face it, she's the baby. My mom knows how to throw a party and nothing makes my Dad happier (really any dad happier) than spoiling their little girl.
After the wedding, we stuck around for a few days so my Dad wouldn't be lonely. Kerin and Corey left on their cruise, and the rest of the family went up to Utah to live(Kassey and Will)/go to EFY(Karly, Ambrea and Kody)/drop off others at EFY(my Mom and Kloe). Ambrea is Becky's daughter. Becky is my second mom. We all lived in Germany at the same time and when we moved back to the states, they moved to Alaska, where they've been for the last 10 years. Ambrea came down for a couple weeks to visit in July/August and has promised to send me fish. Also, she's captain of her school dog sled team.
Now we're here in the great northwest, 20 minutes north of Seattle. Tyler loves his new job, especially the hours. He's gone from 5:30am to 3:00pm. I love eating dinner together, all three and a half of us, at the table. We were able to find an apartment in less then a week and now are officially almost finished moving in. Although, it doesn't seem like it since we don't have a couch anymore (sold it on craigslist before we moved). We love our new apartment! There's a fireplace, a washer and dryer, a pool, a garbage disposal, a patio and a dishwasher. I LOVE OUR DISHWASHER! I love loading it and unloading it. I love how insanely loud it is. It almost brings me to tears. I don't think I have ever been so sincerely grateful for an appliance. On a different note, we learned something this move. Don't ever buy scented garbage bags, even if they are the only ones they have in the size you need. They're disgusting. Tyler put it kindly when he said it now smells like "Vanilla ice cream with poop in it." Trust me, it's much worse.
That would bring us to the present. Mack and I have been sick the last couple of days, but I think this morning marks a turning point. Yesterday we made the short drive down to the Edmonds/Kingston Ferry dock to take a look around. This place is gorgeous! This afternoon I think we'll head to Ikea in Kent and pick up some lamps (our apartment has no overhead lighting, but it does have fans). I'm really hoping this is the beginning of things starting to settle down for us. For us that means living somewhere for at least a year. It's looking good so far. We've subscribed to the Economist and the Ensign so I think we're on the right track.
Don't forget we love visitors!

P.S. How amazing was the last Harry Potter book? Splendid!

This one goes out to all the Grandmas

2007-08-17T08:42:00.000-07:00

Activity of choice this morning: Mack got into the bottom drawer (wonder where he learned that one from?) and got out an old bottle and a 1/tbsp measuring spoon. Now he's walking around the apartment eating something imaginary from the bottle with the spoon. I love this kid.

Eating for Two: YES!

2007-08-09T10:06:00.000-07:00

Pregnant. Baby number two. I get to demand, I mean request, food and pass it off as a craving. Gotta love that. What's not to love? I'll tell you what: The incredible pain I get down my leg at all hours for no descent reason. I'm about 18 weeks pregnant with 21 weeks to go. I think I'm pretty good at keeping secrets. If you happen to disagree...well just keep it to yourself because I'm pregnant which means I'm allowed to be cranky.

4.2

2007-07-20T11:32:00.001-07:00

After experiencing my first earthquake this morning, I now consider myself an expert in the field. Fern and I woke up at 4:42am to a 4.2 earthquake. After the shaking stopped my mind was cleared and I began explaining to Fern the importance of the little quakes that relieves the tectonic pressure to prevent larger quakes. It's science. In the end, all is well despite our apartment sitting directly on the epicenter. So please.....stop the flood of calls to make sure we are alive.

We're moving!

2007-07-19T13:06:00.000-07:00

That's right. In about 12 days we'll be loading up a truck and moving to the great northwest. Tyler reached his full potential at his current job pretty quickly and decided to stick the old resume out there to see if anything bit. He's been offered a job in Seattle that has everything we're looking for. My favorite part are the fabulous new hours. While I can't wait to improve our standard of living (no more mice or bridge tolls), part of me wishes we could have just a little more time here. I love San Francisco, and there are so many things we haven't had a chance to do, though not for lack of trying. But please don't misunderstand me, I am VERY EXCITED to head up north. I love Seattle too!

By the Way...

2007-07-16T08:00:00.001-07:00

I made a HUGE scene at Church yesterday. I've made big scenes before, but trust me, this was the biggest. Several women in Relief Society commented that most people who get married young, end up divorced due to the age at which they married. One woman remarked that her daughter waited to get married until after she'd received a Master's degree, concluding that girls who get married young must not have any plans for their lives and get married because (they're stupid) and don't know what else to do (except like twirl their pigtails I guess). After listening to woman after woman insult me, I had to speak up. I told them they were being mean (yep!) and explained my side of the story. I may not have a Master's or teach inner city kids in Chicago, but I have an eternal family, which is why I'm here. Simply put, it is WHO not WHEN. Etc, etc. A LOT of women came up to me after church. Some to apologize, some to agree and some to defend themselves. Luckily, Tyler showed up and saved the day by getting me out of there. I am scared to death to go back next week.

Danna and David's wedding was stupendous. But honestly, how could it be anything else? I'm so excited for them to FINALLY start their new life together! My parents drove up from San Diego, and then shuttled Tyler, Mack and me out to Sacramento for the festivities. My mom took Mack to hang out with an old friend, while my Dad and Tyler managed to squeeze in a movie (Transformers) between the sealing and the reception.
Mack is CRAZY lately. It's very cute when I'm in a good mood and infuriating when I am stressed or need to get something done. Busy busy busy. He gets into and climbs onto everything. Mack loves riding his little tricycle around the living room, waving or yelling to people outside the window and spilling cups of milk. For all his mischief, I have to say that in some strange way he is very well behaved. Mack travels extremely well. Sits good through most of church and follows a few simple instructions. Most recently he learned to sit down when I tell him "Sit down on your BUM." I think it's very cute. He still loves to "read", and his favorite book has to be Tyler's old Spanish-English dictionary from his mission. His vocabulary now includes the words:

Hot
Bye
Lello (Hello)
Hi
Ball
Zoo
Nanana (Banana)
Ma Ma
Da Da
Zzhoes (shoes)
Uh-Oh
Dee (Tree)
Dickle (Tickle)
Boom Boom
**I forgot to mention that he also says dog, ruff, sky and hot. Just this morning he said poop, but he says it "bo".**

For the last day and a half, a bunch of people that live in our building have been out on the front lawn arguing very loudly. We have no idea what it is about because the whole things in Turkish. But it must be serious because the women always leave crying. I just hope it doesn't get violent.
I'm looking forward to the next two weeks WITHOUT travel leading up to Kerin's wedding. Hopefully we can get our hands on some boxes and I can start packing--again.

Fourth of July at Embarcadero

Is this thing on?

2007-07-05T08:05:00.000-07:00

FIRST! We want to wish you all a happy Fourth of July, especially our brothers in arms. This Thompson family celebrated by eating at Ikea for lunch, then taking BART to Embarcadero and walking around buying some produce for our Fourth of July Feast. Later that night we put Mack to bed then ate yummy food and mostly just listened to fireworks as we watched a Globe Trekker marathon of our own making. In my opinion, it was perfect.

Obviously it's been a while since I did this.
Hold on a second, I've got the news on in the background, and the on site weatherman just gave a little update holding a water bottle and a banana. Couldn't he get someone to hold his banana and water for him? Or just set it on the ground? odd.
A lot has happened over the last couple of months. Tyler and I must be addicted to danger because we moved to East Oakland. Now, after a several "incidents" including our car being broken into (yes, the Honda--people must be really desperate) and catching 4 mice in the period of 2 weeks in our apartment, we're hoping to move to Hayward which should cut down a little on Tyler's hour commute.

Back on Memorial day weekend Tyler had his official graduation ceremony from USD. The President of Qualcomm spoke and officially became the richest person I will ever see in my life. This guy practically invented "wireless" and life as we know it. That same weekend, Kyle gave his "Farewell Talk" at church. He entered the MTC two weeks later and just left for Pittsburgh on Monday. Good Luck Kyle!

Later that week, Mack took his second trip to Disneyland. It was a HUGE hit the second time around. His favorite by far was the Carousel, but it sure was funny watching his face on the Haunted Mansion.

In June, Tyler's Mom came to visit for a long weekend and we loved having her. She spoiled Mack, made us dinner and best of all- BABYSAT! Frankly, I don't think any responsible mother in our ward would allow her teenage daughter to come babysit in our neighborhood. We loved showing her around San Francisco and probably set some sort of record for the most attractions seen in one day.

Kassey married Will King last Saturday in Midway, UT. Don't be offended if you didn't get an invite. It was a small family wedding, at least as small as our family gets. Mack and I flew up to Utah for a couple days to help. It was crazy and I'm so glad to be back where I can "relax". Congrats to Kass and Will!
I guess those are the highlights of our summer so far. We've been trying our best to take advantage of life here in the Bay area in lots of little ways. We went down to Gilroy to check our the outlets (which I can't recommend enough), and thanks to Kassey (I had to find a yellow or gray dress to wear to her wedding) I think I may have been to every major shopping center in the area, which is both a blessing and a curse.

Over Father's Day, Mack and Tyler shared their first real tide pool experience down in Monterey. Mack loved the rocks and birds and other funny things. Tyler was a little bit nervous about sticking his fingers in the weird sea creatures. We can't wait to go back.
I can't forget to mention that back in April Mack had his first boating experience. Grandpa can't wait to get him on the tube. I think it might be a while (grin).

Last but not least, Mack celebrated his first birthday back in May with cake, presents, and ribs from Legoland. Of course he got what every little boy dreams of for their birthday, a pony! About a month later, he started walking. He gets better and better every day, mastering moves such as turning and stopping without falling over. He does it all with his hands in the air, up by his head. Talent indeed.

**If you actually want to look at any of these pictures, just click to make them bigger.**

2007-04-22T18:23:00.000-07:00

The following is an email that I just got. Don't feel obligated to read the whole thing. Like I even need to tell you that, you'll read what you want anyway. I went ahead and bolded the locations that would have pertained specifically to us so you can skim to that if you want. I am so glad to be done with that chapter of my life. In Mexico you can never be too careful. I can't believe some of the stupid stuff I've heard Americans try lately. (Hopefully) You only get kidnapped or shot once, SO BE CAREFUL! It is NOT the 51st state.

Dear friends,
Please read the following public announcement and forward it to other Americans
abroad as you are able.
Thank you,
American Citizen Services Section
U.S. Consulate
Monterrey, Mexico.
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
Mexico
April 19, 2007
This Public Announcement advises U.S. citizens on security situations in Mexico
that may affect their activities while in that country. This Public
Announcement supersedes previous Public Announcements for Mexico dated January
18, 2007 and September 15, 2006. This Public Announcement expires on October
16, 2007.
Narcotics-Related Violence - U.S. citizens residing and traveling in Mexico
should exercise caution when in unfamiliar areas and be aware of their
surroundings at all times. Violence by criminal elements affects many parts of
the country, urban and rural, including border areas. In recent months there
have been execution-style murders of Mexican officials in Tamaulipas
(particularly Nuevo Laredo), Michoacan, Baja California, Guerrero (particularly
Acapulco), Nuevo Leon (especially in and around Monterrey) and other states.
Though there is no evidence that U.S. citizens are specifically targeted,
Mexican and foreign bystanders have been injured or killed in some violent
attacks demonstrating the heightened risk in public places. In its effort to
combat violence, the Government of Mexico has deployed military troops in
various parts of the country. U.S. citizens are advised to cooperate with
official checkpoints when traveling on Mexican highways.
In recent years dozens of U.S. citizens have been kidnapped in Nuevo Laredo with
more than two dozen cases still unresolved and new cases of kidnap for ransom
continue to be reported. No one can be considered immune from kidnapping on the
basis of occupation, nationality, or other factors. Drug cartel members have
been known to follow and harass U.S. citizens traveling in their vehicles,
particularly in border areas including Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros. U.S.
citizens who believe they are being followed should notify officials as soon as
possible. U.S. citizens should make every attempt to travel on main roads
during daylight hours, particularly the toll ("cuota") roads, which are
generally more secure. It is preferable for U.S. citizens to stay in well-known
tourist destinations and tourist areas of the cities with more adequate
security, and provide an itinerary to a friend or family member not traveling
with them. U.S. citizens should refrain from displaying expensive-looking
jewelry, large amounts of money, or other valuable items.
Oaxaca City - U.S. citizens traveling to Oaxaca City should be aware that from
May to November 2006, protests in Oaxaca City became increasingly violent
resulting in at least nine deaths. On October 27, 2006, a U.S. citizen was shot
and killed in Oaxaca City as a result of the violence and disorder caused by
ongoing civil unrest in the city. Many of the issues that were the basis for
the protests remain unresolved. U.S. Citizens planning to travel to Oaxaca City
should check on current conditions before beginning their travel.

Demonstrations - Demonstrations occur frequently throughout Mexico and are
usually peaceful. However, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn
confrontational and escalate into violence unexpectedly. During violent
demonstrations or law enforcement operations, U.S. citizens are reminded to
remain in their homes or hotels, avoid large crowds, and avoid the downtown and
surrounding areas. Since the timing and routes of scheduled marches and
demonstrations are always subject to change, U.S. citizens should monitor local
media sources for new developments and exercise extreme caution while within the
vicinity of any protests. The State Department reminds U.S. citizens to avoid
participating in demonstrations and other activities that might be deemed
political by Mexican authorities. The Mexican Constitution prohibits political
activities by foreigners, and such actions may result in detention and/or
deportation.
For more detailed information on staying safe in Mexico, please see the Mexico
Consular Information Sheet at:
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_970.html. For the latest
security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor
the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current
Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements
can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling
1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers from Mexico, a
regular toll line at 001-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00
a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal
holidays). American citizens traveling or residing overseas are encouraged to
register with the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the State
Department's travel registration website at
https://travelregistration.state.gov.
For any emergencies involving U.S. citizens in Mexico, please contact the
closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The U.S. Embassy is located in Mexico City at
Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, telephone from the United States:
011-52-55-5080-2000; telephone within Mexico City: 5080-2000; telephone long
distance within Mexico 01-55-5080-2000. You may also contact the Embassy by
e-mail at: ccs@usembassy.net.mx. The Embassy's Internet address is
http://www.usembassy-mexico.gov/.
Consulates:
Ciudad Juarez: Avenida Lopez Mateos 924-N, telephone (52)(656) 611-3000.
Guadalajara: Progreso 175, telephone (52)(333) 268-2100.
Hermosillo: Avenida Monterrey 141, telephone (52)(662) 289-3500.
Matamoros: Avenida Primera 2002, telephone (52)(868) 812-4402.
Merida: Calle 60 No. 338 K, telephone (52)(999) 942-5700
Monterrey: Avenida Constitucion 411 Poniente, telephone (52)(818) 345-2120.
Nogales: Calle San Jose, Nogales, Sonora, telephone (52)(631) 311-8150.
Nuevo Laredo: Calle Allende 3330, Col. Jardin, telephone (52)(867) 714-0512.
Tijuana: Tapachula 96, telephone (52)(664) 622-7400.

2007-04-21T08:30:00.000-07:00

I know this sounds like a lame opening to a talk or something...but I don't know where to start, things have been so busy lately. Tyler is gone to North Carolina for training. Work is fine but he mostly just misses Mack and me (is it still sweet if I type it myself?) Mack has no idea what is going on but gets very confused in the morning when there is no Daddy around to play with. I miss Tyler a TON.
Last weekend Kerin came up with Mack and I to the Bay area to look for an apartment. We stayed with my Aunt Gail and Uncle Butch (Grandma Cope's brother). They were a hoot I say, a real riot. Both have lived in San Francisco their entire lives, but Gail cannot for the life of her give directions. Problem solved: she got in the car and told us how to get there as we went. She also told us about her 97 year old mother who lives by herself in the Marina district of San Francisco. She is sick of her window and has a pretend boyfriend named Mario who drives a convertible Mercedes. Gail always has to set a place for him at dinner. His car should be parked across the street, but he's going to be a little late.
After searching South San Francisco, San Francisco, Alameda and Oakland, I found a place. It's in Oakland and yes it's safe, so please stop asking me that. It's also 900 sq ft, which blows my mind, and $200 less than I was willing to pay. Prayers ARE answered. If everything goes well, we'll be moving in around the 5th of May.
I'm sure you all know a certain someone (Mack) has very important birthday coming up on the 3rd. It'll be his first in fact. I have a goal to find a Cozy Coupe off craigslist and turn it into something inspired by this from Rookiemoms in time for the big day. As far as projects go in general I'm working on a few other things as usual, but I don't want to spoil any surprises so I'll have to keep my mouth shut.
Sorry there are no pictures this time. I don't have a cord to hook up the camera. OH--and we had a great Easter, in Utah with the whole family. Really it was great, but just so long ago I'd feel silly writing about it now. Maybe I'll put up some pictures from it it a couple of weeks. But know this: Mack ate his first (half of a) peep. That a'boy!

2007-03-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, I cut off all my hair.
Yes, I am a big dork.

Happy St. Patrick's Day...sorta

2007-03-19T20:46:00.000-07:00

These pictures are a little late. Busy little bees are we, with the move and all. I'm going to try my best to put these in order, but I make no promises.A week (or so) ago we went to Saltillo. It's a smallish city west of Monterrey with a very old cathedral among other things. They're famous for their serapes. We picked one up at the local government-run market. On our way there we noticed a military checkpoint across the hwy headed back toward Monterrey (across the state lines). We got nervous thinking they might be checking visas. Thankfully--since we'd forgotten ours--the checkpoint was closed (or open, depending on how you look at it, anyway they weren't 'checking' anymore) by the time we headed back.What would St. Patrick's Day be without an entire coordinating wardrobe for the entire day? Yeah, right. I wish I had things that together. As a complete coincidence, I finished all these projects earlier in the week and just happened to have Mack wear them for St. Patrick's. Everything except the shorts, which are way too big and just for Sundays. I made them out of a pair of Tyler's old slacks. Pretty thrifty if I do say so myself.

It's the little man himself! A willing model as usual. Oh gosh, he's cute!
I don't really know what to say about this picture, it seems fairly obvious. Baseball shoes. I made them to test out a new pattern before I made some leather ones with it. You can find the link to the pattern in the sidebar. What I like most about this pattern is that it comes in different sizes, from 0 all the way up to a children's 13.

This picture is from earlier this evening. Tyler put Mack in his old bouncy seat for kicks and Mack LOVED it. Silly guy. He would grab the bar and bounce himself around.For the past two days he's been sticking his tongue out more than usual. I think he probably means he's a genius. He thinks looking out the window is the greatest thing ever. Frankly, I get a little nervous that someone might see him and try to kidnap our gorgeous little blond baby.Last one I swear. Remember when Tyler was gone and I said I was going to make Mack some sandals? Well, I did it. They're the brown ones. I still get frustrated just looking at them. They're absolutely perfect in every way, but they're too big. I'm selling them for $20 if anyone is interested. I make things too big all the time and it doesn't bug me at all, but for some reason these shoes are driving me nuts. I made the khaki/green ones tonight after Mack went to sleep. I tried them on him and they fit! Hooray!

2007-03-17T15:54:00.000-07:00

How totally awesome is this! Free Land! If today were two years from now Tyler and I would do this in a heart beat. That's the kind of spontaneous, crazy people we are (although I don't think anything involving real estate should have those adjectives attached to it. No matter how impulsive it is, land just doesn't seem crazy now does it. Maybe the fact that I think it's crazy shows how unspontaneous I'm becoming?? tangent done). I would fly out tomorrow, no joke! Stand in line all night and maybe even purchase a "baked good" or two from the "student government students". But sadly, the timing couldn't be worse. We're still in Mexico and in the midst of a yet another transition, ie: move and becoming legitimate tax paying citizens. Grr. There is an article about it on CNN.com (sorry no link: too lazy), and ever since we read it we've been thinking about the many ways we would/could take advantage of this situation. But don't you worry, I'm going to keep my eye on this little town just in case they decide to do anything like this in the future.

MTY to SFO

2007-03-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

Well the system actually works...you go to school and you get a job. That is my past 5 years in a nutshell. I was offered a position in San Francisco with a company called Sageworks Inc. Of all the jobs I sought recently, this was definitely at the top of the list. The company is based in Raleigh, NC so I will be traveling back and forth as I go through the training period. Last week the company flew me out to SF to see the office and have an in-person interview. Apparently they liked what they saw and offered me the position the next day. As the countdown indicates below, I graduate in two weeks . I begin work on April 16th. Until then Fern and I will be looking for a place to live. We have set up various criteria for the location and apartment features we desire. We'll keep you posted. I think Fern deserves a lot a credit for putting up with my crazy ideas, like moving to Mexico with a newborn baby. Thanks Ferny, I luv ya. Well enough of that..............As the wise Notorious B.I.G. once declared, "we're goin back to Cali!"

Oh yeah.....CONGRATS to Kyle (Fern's brother)----he's going to Pittsburgh, PA on his mission! Atta kid.

deep breath

2007-03-06T17:21:00.000-08:00

I don't know where to start, so forgive me if this is a bit choppy. Tyler's birthday was wonderful on Friday. Thanks for all the text messages (you know who you are). It's the thought that counts, right? Just so no one gets confused, we can't get texts in south of the border. The next day, I came down with Mack's stomach virus. Not fun. Yesterday, I was officially stamped "healthy"...just in time for poor Ty to get sick. He was in a bad way last night, poor guy, and is on the road right now headed for Laredo. He left about 2 hours ago and Mack and I are still here. We decided to stick in out in Monterrey this time. Ty will fly to San Francisco early tomorrow morning, have an interview in the afternoon, and fly back Thursday. So he should be back sometime around 7 slash 8ish.

BIG NEWS: Kerin is engaged! Corey popped the question a weekish ago. The date is set for August 3rd (changed from July 13 because the reception venue was booked! sad.). I'm very, very excited for her to begin this new chapter in her life! Husbands rock (I miss Tyler)!

BAD NEWS: Last Tuesday we were on our way to Saltillo and we got in a car accident. Living in Monterrey this long I'm frankly surprised we didn't get in one earlier. No one was hurt and now our bumper is tied onto the car with zipper ties. bummer. I don't want to say anything else about it.

My mom sent me some pictures today from when we went to Disneyland back in January. Pictures of all three of us together are so rare! And I had to include a pic of mack with his mouse ears on over his hat in front of It's a Small World.

ON A DIFFERENT NOTE:
I've got sewing on the brain. I even dream about it. I can't wait to start my next project, but at the same time I get so overwhelmed thinking about where to begin. I want to do it all! But I'm going to say it right here so it has to come true: Tomorrow I'm going to make Mack some sandals. Really. I am so excited about the things I've already made. It's so satisfying to make practical things. Things we're actually using, and save us tangible money. Maybe it sounds boring, but that's only because I'm not good at writing about what it is I do. It is not boring. My poor mother as to listen to me toot my horn every time I finish something. Thanks for putting up with all my calls! Here's are pictures of a few of the things I've called about. Now you can finally put a "face" with my projects.

*In case you can't tell, the middle pictures are of a bib with sleeves. I made it using a PJ pattern and an old hand towel. But my favorite part was using up all those bright scraps of ribbon and rick rack. You don't get to use much trim when you're sewing for a little boy. The last one is a pair of bear shoes. And since I'm explaining the others--The first ones are Mack's "Monster Outfit". Gotta love the turned up cuffs (Ty's idea) and perfect pocket placement. I have a bit of an obsession with cute monsters. I blame my parents for raising me (thankfully) on Sesame Street. *

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TYLER

2007-03-02T07:42:00.000-08:00

Talk about one year older and wiser too! 27 years old and soon he will be graduating with his second mater's degree. Way to go Tyler! Last year was amazing, but this year will be great too. Happy Birthday!

Love, Mack and Fern

Our Baby is Sick

2007-02-28T11:18:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon Mack simply would not calm down. Getting out of the house usually cheers him right up, so around six we decided to take him to H-E-B to get some bread. While we were there, I noticed he wasn't waving at of the other kids or clapping his hands for the little old ladies. Strange. On the way home he threw-up. It was not pretty. For dinner he'd eaten chicken and broccoli, and now our car and laundry room smell like chicken and broccoli vomit. His car seat was absolutely disgusting. As I went to unbuckle him I kept repeating under my breath, "You're the Mom. You're the Mom." I am the Mom. I need to be able to unbuckle my son from his chicken and broccoli vomit soaked car seat! But I couldn't do it (deep breath). I can't tell you how glad I am that Tyler was there. Have I mentioned lately what an amazing husband I snatched? Well, we eventually got Mack undressed and inside (in that order) and into his tub. Then just as we were about to put him down for the night in his fresh PJ's, vomit struck again. Of course it did! The rest of our night followed about the same pattern. Poor little guy can't seem to keep anything down. He just lies in our arms or on the floor and moans. He hasn't been able to stay asleep in his crib, but that's OK. There are basically two times he gets whatever he wants: airplane trips and sick days.

2007-02-20T08:42:00.000-08:00

I should be getting ready to go to Texas. I am eating generic chocolate pop-tarts and dinking around on the internet.
Why Texas?
A couple weeks ago Tyler realized he had amassed enough frequent flyer miles for a free domestic ticket. Amazing. The system works! He managed to get all these miles simply from taking other flights. Other flights that were paid for. We didn't get any miles for all the trips we took during Tyler's internship for Skywest. Maybe all this is obvious, but I'm still so glad/thankful that he has free flight saved up. Tyler has to drive up to McAllen, TX to fly out and it really just isn't wise for Mack and I to stay here without him. I've struggled with this decision all week. Does going to to TX make me a wimp? Wouldn't we be just fine (and save a ton of money) if Mack and I stayed here? What it basically comes down to
**Mack just woke up from his nap is now eying my generic chocolate pop-tart. Don't even THINK about it kid. What a good boy he is. Mack is now sitting on the floor behind me, trapped in the front room by his playpen and a series of strategically placed baskets, playing with an empty cup.**
What it basically comes down to is the car. I won't have it unless I follow it to TX. I can't drive it back from TX because
**Mack just crawled over and tried to start chewing on my big toe. I told him it probably wouldn't do any real harm, but it's just not a good idea all the same.**
Right. So. In Mexico, if you want to drive your car some arbitrary number of miles south of the border or outside of Baja, you must register your vehicle and only the vehicle owner is then allowed to drive said vehicle. Stupid rule if you ask me. If Mack and I tried to drive back home after dropping Tyler off at the airport, we would be stopped about 45min into our trip at the Nuevo Leon state border. There, the customs agents (backed by military armored vehicles and automatic weapons pointed at us the entire time) would confiscate our visas, any cash we might have on us (about 400 pesos for tolls), and anything else they thought looked interesting- I mean suspicious -from our car, before turning us around and sending us back to TX. If Mack and I simply stayed put for 5 or 6 days while Tyler was gone we would be here without a car or any reliable way to contact anyone for help in case of an emergency.
**Had to stop typing to change Mack's diaper, nurse him, play with him (darn!) and feed him lunch. Have now packed all of Mack's things and mine. I've also double checked Tyler's bag. He is notorious for forgetting whatever it is that happens to be important to bring, but I do love him all the same.**
All I have left to do now is shower. I hate our shower, and this is no overstatement, but that is a story for another time. Wish us luck!

2007-02-17T11:38:00.000-08:00

Right now there is a truck outside our place selling brooms and mops for 25 pesos a pair. Good deal. This guy comes around every week or so and yells from a loud speaker about all the wonderful deals he has to offer us. A mop and a broom. A mop and a mop. A broom and a broom. A broom and a mop. Or maybe you'd just like a mop. And get this, they also sell BROOMS individually! Amazing! Anyway it's funny to Tyler and me. I took a picture with our non-digital (bad word) camera, as our fancy dancy one is still in Washington. Sad. At least the lady across the street came out to buy a broom. After the sale the guy with the truck was pleased as punch and did a little victory chant. Good for him.

2007-02-17T10:45:00.000-08:00

A man just came to our door and offered to sell us little tables, like the ones you use to eat dinner in front of the TV. Sorry buddy, no thanks. We actually have one we bought a while ago for Tyler to use as a desk when we lived with my parents. But it looks like our upstairs neighbor (Claudia) is going to pick one up. Good for her. This sort of thing just doesn't happen in other places. Que viva Mexico!

2007-02-10T20:26:00.000-08:00

THIS led me to THIS which finally led me to THIS.
Oh Boy! Honestly, are these not the neatest dolls ever? They're the aniti-doll, and I love them! Granted, Mack is a boy, but I don't think there could be in harm in him having a Tickle Me Freud. Ooo, there's just too many! How's a mom to choose? But I still want more! Couldn't someone make similar dolls by the name of Nephi, Abinadi, etc? Or maybe Shaun Alexander or Micheal Savage?

Post Script: If a word is red, it's a link. Click on it to be taken away somewhere exotic and amazing (like a little internet vacation--go ahead, you deserve it!)

2007-01-28T12:30:00.000-08:00

It's nap time. One of my favorite times. Usually, Mack goes down for his afternoon nap at about 1pm, but on Sundays he waits until 2pm when we're home from church and he's eaten lunch. Tyler went home teaching this afternoon so it was just Mack and me. He wasn't really in the mood to nap. I could hear him singing to himself and pulling his puppy dog's tail to make music, then after a while everything was quiet. I went to check on him and this is what I found. At least he wasn't face down, which he likes to do sometimes just to keep Ty and me on our toes.This is what Mack looks like on days he REALLY doesn't want to nap. Fun... but mostly sad.

Ha. Ha.

2007-01-21T14:22:00.001-08:00

I think that the universe is trying to play some sort of sick joke on me. All the "words" in blogger have been translated into Spanish. Is this supposed to be funny? I don't speak Spanish. Sue me. It's not enough to be constantly reminded of it every time I leave the house or whenever I happen to actually speak to someone besides me husband, Blogger has to gang up on me too. Thanks a lot Blogger. Since Blogger Spanish isn't too complicated, it's just mildly inconvenient (which somehow makes it all mildly more annoying).
Sunday at the Thompson Casita is going well. The front half is clean, including the kitchen, we ate a good mid-day meal, Mack took a half descent afternoon nap and the playoffs are on TV. Mack officially took is first...not steps because he wasn't walking, what do you call crawling? Whatever it is he did it. He officially CRAWLED. He picked up and moved each hand and each knee. We're very proud and a very nervous. Our place here is one gigantic death trap. Sharp corners everywhere you look and fire in the middle of the room to boot. I've tried rearranging things a couple of times to make a safe zone for Mack but nothing works.
I skipped out on Church today because I am an evil and lazy person. Not. Yesterday I got this crazy idea in my head that Sunday should be a day of rest and in order to relax everything needed to be clean. Obviously this was a stupid idea because I went to move the table with our TV on it--our little, tiny, practically doll sized, purple TV--and hurt my back. Badly. I've never hurt my back before for two reasons: 1) I'm very careful every time I move (which is often) and 2) Only wimpy 60 year old women hurt their back. Grr. It's gotten better I guess because I can sit at the computer, but getting up from this chair won't be fun. Hmm, did you know "Ver blog" means view blog? I didn't. But I do now. Thank you not at all universe. I don't like being taught things without knowing about it first.
Furthermore, Mack is hilarious! Like all babies, his favorite toys are either not actual "toys" or dangerous. To illustrate this point, I present the following:

Mack's Top Toy List
1. Remote control (doesn't work thanks to drool=official toy)
2. Disposable plastic wipes container
3. Desitin tube
4. Hot Wheels car still in the packaging (a gift from a woman in our ward)
5. Paper, magazines, cardboard, etc.
6. Foam padding under our rug
7. Daddy's shoes
8. Tags (the ones attached to other toys)
9. My hair
10. Pretzel bucket (Daddy had to eat 5lbs of pretzels so Mack could play with it)

Last week was busy. We went to Texas on Friday so Tyler could take a "test" for a prospective employer. Mack and I hung out in the McAllen Memorial Library for 2 hrs while Tyler was busy in "Study Room A". Mack had a blast scooting all over their little kids rug, even looking under the edges for stuff to chew on (see #6 above). And that's all I'm going to say about that.

Left to Right: Tyler reads Harry Potter to Mack in Spanish while Mack stays busy with a little Dr. Suess. This Pic is currently our desktop background. Mack loves peeking around the corner of his fort looking for Mommy and Daddy.

Our heater, basically it's a fire in there in the middle that turns on and off at will. My mom thinks its from the 40's--she's probably right.

These pics are from earlier today. Those things on Mack's feet are the monster slippers I made for him a day or so back. We all think they're silly. The last picture is Mack crawling for the first time. AHH! Love Him!

(click any of these pictures to make them bigger)

For Your Viewing Pleasure

2007-01-12T18:18:00.000-08:00

All of these pictures are from Christmas Eve and Christmas morning, courtesy of my sister Kassey. She does weddings...really! We got a little wild with her flash Christmas Eve while I was making the shrimp salad. My favorites has to be either my Dad in the fanny pack (he makes that thing look good), the close up of Karly, the picture of Mack right after the crying one, or the last one of him with all his presents (too many to choose just one!--pictures I mean, those presents are his Grandparents' fault).

Feliz Año Nuevo

2007-01-09T17:53:00.000-08:00

Well we're back....in Mexico. It's weird, it feels as if we never left but also that we were gone for a long time. I'm not quite sure if we're excited to be back. I guess more than anything we are excited to be almost done with school and on to the real world. Mexico is Mexico. On our drive into Monterrey we stopped at a state border crossing where they check for customs and import fees (who knows why this does not occur at the national border crossing). We'll in all the shuffle we forgot Fern and Mack's visas which did not sit well with the local authorities. After talking my way out of that situation we encountered the next problem. Cars either receive a red or green light indicating whether they need to stop for a customs check. The guard flashed us a green meaning it was okay for us to go. About a kilometer down the highway a large federal police truck flashed its lights and honked at us to pull over. I thought. "how much money do we have to bribe this guy"......we had no pesos at the time. Once stopped he explained that we needed to stop at the customs check point and stated that he flashed us a red light (which wasn't true). He escorted us back to the check point, lights flashing, and asked us to take all of our stuff out of the car....I figured he wanted to choose which item he wanted to pocket for himself. I emptied our little Honda that was jammed packed which Mack's Christmas toys proving to the guard that in fact we were not drug traffickers. I think Mack's hungry cry help things move along. In the end we made it out okay...just another run-in with the Mexican authorities.

The final countdown begins. I officially graduate in 82 days.....finally. I think I am beyond senioritis. I think the recent interviews help pass the time faster. Also, don't forget that the Seahawks travel to Soldier Field for a rematch aganist those pesky Bears in a NFC divisional playoff game. Go Hawks!!! Well, Feliz Año Nuevo.

Tony Romo handing the Seahawks a Wild Card victory.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2006-12-31T16:12:00.000-08:00

WOW, Has this year ever flown by?! So Christmas was wonderful, no surprises there (well there were SURPRISES, but it wasn't a surprise it went well...). Everything was the same this year as last year (and the year before that, and the year before that, and the year before that) here at the ol' Porterfield homestead. Tradition is the name of the game around here for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, which is just the way I like it! Mack was/is still being spoiled beyond belief! Basically, if his age range is printed on the box, and it's from CostCo, Grandpa got it for him. Many laughs! Mack caught the flu just before Christmas and recovered the day after. Now he's fighting an ear ache (from all those flights), we're hoping he'll be fine by the time we go back to Mexico on Saturday. Go figure, he's NEVER sick in Monterrey but as soon as we get to the states...I think he saves it up to take advantage of our health insurance. I put Mack on the floor in the cultural hall today durring sunday school and he was all over the place. He gets up on his hands and knees and then pushes himself backwards until he's stuck under the couch or a dresser or whatever. Adorable. One more thing, we got a great visit from Sean and Rachel yesterday! It really was refreshing to see old friends. They're the only one's from college that have yet to meet our boy (hint, hint). That's it for now. I'll put up some more pictures one of these days--probably when we get back to ol' Mexico. In the mean time here is one of Mack in his Christmas PJs holding the plate he made for Grammy and Grandpa. Happy New year everyone!

Once Upon a Time...

2006-12-13T07:14:00.000-08:00

Whew! We got into San Diego on Saturday afternoon, and ever since then it's been 'Go-Time'. Saturday night I went to see The Lion King with my Mom, Karly and Kloe at the Pantages (Mack and his Daddy stayed home and goofed off with Grandpa). No surprises there! It was AMAZING! I'd never been inside the Pantages before, and let me tell you, it was stunning. The inside is all very 1920s/30s art deco. I can't believe it was never "remodeled" or torn down. Thank goodness. Sunday morning was the usual--Church--but in ENGLISH, which was much more relaxing. Straight after coming home, we ate and then my Mom and I were off again, this time to a Sing-along Messiah with the La Jolla Symphony. Kassey, you may think I'm weird but it was actually mucho fun. I tried singing alto because I didn't want to sit by myself in the soprano (I didn't come all the way from Mexico to be alone), I held in there for most of it but by the end I was basically a lost cause. On Monday my Mom, Mack and I headed down to Ikea after Mack's morning nap. Tyler opted to stay home get Gyros at Daphne's with my Dad. That night after Family Night (which was going to see Deck The Halls--not so good, but at least we were the only ones in the theater so Kloe could try sitting in every row throughout the movie), my Mom and I were off to run a few late night errands. REALLY. Erands until MIDNIGHT. I can't tell you what we were doing because I could spoil things, but we were both pretty tired by the end of it. Tuesday, Tuesday. What can I tell you about Tuesday? We got lunch at CostCo with my parents (basically Tyler's second favorite place to eat after Daphne's), then Mack had a quick doctor's appointment where they checked his hemoglobin (perfect) and gave him his second round of the flu shot. He complained a little bit to the nurse after she gave him his flu shot and didn't even notice the finger prick. Good nurse and GREAT boy! Last night my Mom and I went to a not so great Enrichment. All the women there were griping about their husbands and children (sheesh!), and there wasn't enough food. It was a progressive dinner. Isn't food kinda the point? That brings me to today. Wednesday and I'm blogging. The end.
Wait! a few more things.
Sorry there still aren't any pictures of Mack. I have to convince my Dad to let me add another internet browser on his computer because that's the only way I know to post pics with a Mac. And a quick tip to any of you out there who might be flying with young children this holiday season: little baby cheeks get very dry on the airplane. Try to bring a sample size of lotion for your darling. Also, I always forget how cold airplanes are. brrrr! What helped us adjust Mack to the time zone change was literally 'forcing' it. We switched all his meals to the new time as soon as we got there and tried not to let him go to bed early. The rest just fell into place after that. GOOD LUCK!!!!

HO! HO! HO!

2006-12-05T09:25:00.000-08:00

Mack met Santa yesterday. He gave him a funny "What's with the facial hair dude?" look, was a little confused by his crying cousin (Mason) over on Santa's other knee, and finally a little wave over to Mom and Dad, as if to say "I'm fine. Go ahead and do what you gotta do." Once again, he's adorable. Lately he's been doing this little straight armed wave with his left hand. He sticks his arm out, elbow locked, and moves his little hand around in a circle. It's too cute!
What else?....
Bellevue is QUITE the place to be for the season. At seven a bunch of drummer boys walk take position along the street (drums, cymbals and all) and drum along to some classic/jazzy Christmas carols. They stand on giant drum platforms about every 20 ft, with a young lady nearby on the sidewalk dressed in traditional caroling garb (fuzzy muff, bonnet, red skirt, you get the idea), complete with tambourine. Everyone is cheery and about 1 1/2 songs into the "set" it starts to snow (like at Disneyland). I'm telling ya I've never seen anything quite like it. Très magnifique!
Jim (Ty's Dad) cut my hair yesterday. He took off about 5ish inches, which I am thrilled about. It was getting to the point where I just had hair for hair's sake. It was down at/past my waist (still mostly healthy at least) and I simply didn't have time for all that hair in my life anymore. It was giving me headaches, took FORever to brush and wash, and no matter what I did I could not keep it out of Mack's fingers/food. So good-bye and good riddance to the last 5 inches of my hair!
Steve Bumstead took Jim, Tyler and me to a Sonic's game on Friday. I'll NEVER have better seats in my life. We were in the third row and to top it all off--they actually won with a buzzer shot! Quality entertainment my friends.
In case you haven't noticed Mack is 7 months old now. He officially fits 18month clothes (lucky because his cold weather stuff is all size 18m), but we like to mix it up with a little bit of 12month in there too (snazzy). He's adjusted well to the time change (Shauna I don't envy you trying to do this soon). We're still working on that afternoon nap, so far he just screams for a while and the falls asleep later when we're out. I don't think Tyler's family believes me when I tell them what "unusual behavior this is for him". HONESTLY, he almost never cries at home.
I feel like I could probably write more but it wouldn't make any sense this has been a pretty scattery brained blog. And if any of you out there are interested, it looks like baby Truman (the premie I linked to a while ago) might be going home today!

Okay, But I've Only Got Time for a Quickie....

2006-12-01T08:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we flew from San Antonio to Houston. Then from Houston to Salt Lake. Then from Salt Lake to Seattle. There was a LOT of turbulence on our first flight. Mack was an angel the entire time, he even napped well. On our first and last flight we were able to get an empty seat between us to put Mack/junk/feet on.
Upon entering the U.S. of A on Thursday we found our way to the nearest Jack in the Box where I ordered a Egg Nog Shake to celebrate our return to freedom (Tyler had a hamburger).
When we got to Seattle there was a package waiting for me from YakPak. A couple weeks ago I'd gone out on a limb and ordered both of their "specials", $15 each with free shipping. I'd completely spaced the whole thing off until Tyler's mom came into the room with box for me. Basically the specials work like this: 15 bucks gets you three random bags, you don't get to pick them AT ALL! OR 15 bucks gets you two random pairs of shoes. You tell them your size then after that's in in their hands. I can say I am very happy with the way it all worked out. One of the bags has a price tag on it for twenty dollars (the rest of the stuff doesn't have price tags but I'm sure it's worth about a gajjillion$$). If I was snazzy I guess I could resell the stuff, but I'm not so oh well! One pair of the shoes is black and the other is a "blue suede shoe" color. I'd post pictures but...
We forgot our camera in the car. The car is parked in front of a house belonging to a lady we met the LAST time we were in San Antonio. Also, we were supposed to leave her with a set of keys to the car in case she needed to move it. INSTEAD, Tyler accidentally took the car key off the key chain, then gave her said key chain. oops!
Mack has been in 6 states (and 2 countries) in six months! How's that song go? Something, something, I was born a rambling stone (or rolling stone? something like that).
Tyler's finals week went well. I think he's just glad it's over. He's heard back about a final grade from one of his classes already, an A! Way to go Tyler! Hip, Hip! HOORAY! Hip, Hip! HOORAY!
The time zone change hasn't been too bad on Mack so far. He stayed up till about 6:45 last night (8:45 Monterrey time), but then woke up and fussed at 4:30 this morning for a while til we got him out of bed. He refused to eat his breakfast unless I was holding him, and insisted he eat the pears BEFORE the oatmeal (usually it's the other way around).
Tyler is heating up milk for me to have "Giradelli Hot Chocolate: Double Chocolate" as I type this and it's almost done. So I guess that means I'm done.
I just noticed the longest bullet is about my new shoes. What can I say? I'm a female!

2006-11-18T13:31:00.000-08:00

Behold...Green Bean Casserole. I'm curious, has anybody out there NOT heard of green bean casserole? Am I crazy to to believe it is a standard Thanksgiving side dish? Please, if you read this (does anybody ever read this?), tell me whether you have or have not heard of green bean casserole.

2006-11-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

I just had to share some pictures of this gorgeous sweater we found the other day. It's a size four, so it won't fit Mack for a while, but I had to have it. I even made Tyler ask the guy if they made them in my size (they don't). It's from Otavalo, where Tyler served his mission. All the little details--such as the hut, llama, sun, etc-- are hand stitched. We picked up a few other beautiful items, but I can't share them on such a public forum, what with Christmas right around the corner. Hooray for the Holidays!

"Singing in the Bathtub!"

2006-11-14T18:04:00.000-08:00

AH HA! Mack, caught naked in the bathtub. We don't have a real tub, so Mack takes his bath's on the kitchen rug, in front of the oven...Old West Style.After the initial shock of the first couple flashes from the camera, Mack seemed to warm up to the idea of having his naked picture taken. Should we be worried?
Ahh, all fresh and rosy after a nice bath and bedtime feeding. It was laundry day, so Tyler improved by putting him in some 'comfy' pants and his old shirt from when he was a baby. A - You're adorable. B - You're so beautiful. C - You're a cutie full of charm (we listen to a a lot of John Lithgow around here). I love the fact that Mack is semi posing in these last two pictures.

amazing

2006-11-10T12:18:00.000-08:00

I've been following Teeny Tiny Truman for about a month now. Truman's struggle, coupled with his parents' determination throughout the entire ordeal, has been really inspiring. I often find myself thinking about him and what a trial this must be for his family. As a mother, his story has caused me stop and give pause to consider how blessed I am in regards to my own family. Cheers and good vibes to Truman: Grow Baby, Grow

You asked for it...

2006-11-10T11:46:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures I took of Mack yesterday. He's not doing anything especially spectacular except being spectacular in general.

You did not ask for it...

2006-11-10T11:11:00.000-08:00

A couple days ago, we were out buying milk (the kind from a box) and I spotted this beautiful PUMPKIN! Buying a pumpkin here is not impossible, but it's not a given either. For example, we had no problem finding one a full month prior to Halloween, but on the night itself there was not a descent (ie: not rotten) pumpkin to be found. SO...we got this pumpkin so I could try making cabaza en tacha. Here goes!

First, cut the pumpkin in half. Next, you skin it and chop it into 1-2 inch chunks. Next you let it simmer for a couple of hours with all this "stuff". Cinnamon sticks, orange zest, orange juice, piloncillo. You can get a recipe here.

THIS is the final product. It was very tasty and would probably be good with whipped cream (like pumpkin pie). I don't think I'll ever make this again unless it's for more than 5 people. We had a LOT left over. Plus, peeling a pumpkin is hard work! Maybe sharper knives would have helped?

2006-11-07T10:27:00.000-08:00

We're back and nearly recovered from a whirlwind trip to San Diego. Tyler had a job fair to go to on the 3rd and Mack and I decided to tag along. Ty wasn't comfortable leaving us in Monterrey for 3 days alone, and a hotel across the border would have cost just as much as flying to San Diego (we snagged $89 each way, direct tickets thanks to Southwest). As far as I can tell the job fair was a success. Tyler spoke to all 12 companies there he was interested in and is now waiting to hear back from them.
I managed to get Mack into see the doctor while we were in CA. It's just as we suspected, he's still growing. He's 28 inches long (95th %) and weighs 19 pounds 2 ounces (85th %). He thought the appointment was basically tickle time, so no worries there. Obviously he wasn't too keen about getting his shots, but who is?
Have you noticed Mack is SIX MONTHS OLD! Babies are so great! In the last six months he's conquered a countless number of skills. In fact, as I write this he has learned how to pull down his toy-with-the-blue-arches and scoot his way inside. AMAZING! Maybe I'm a little biased...but I think we've got a genius on our hands...

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

2006-10-31T12:49:00.000-08:00

PUMPKIN, PUMPKINPumpkin, Pumpkin,
Sitting on the wall.
Pumpkin, Pumpkin,
Tip and fall.
Pumpkin, Pumpkin,
Rolling down the street.
Pumpkin, Pumpkin,
Good to eat!

2006-10-26T19:18:00.001-07:00

FINISHED!! I made these shoes today/last night. The pattern was so simple and I'm absolutely in love with the results. I can't wait to actually pick out specific fabric and make another pair of shoes for Mack. For this pair I cut up an old blanket I "borrowed" (I know! I'm sorry!) from an unnamed airline, and used some rick-rack scraps, buttons and embroidery floss I had lying around. Mack meets his shoes. He never wears shoes, so this was kinda a big deal for him. "Say hello to my little friend."The fuzzy fleeciness of the shoes didn't make this activity fun for very long (Yes, fleeciness is a word).They even look good when he's standing up! AMAZING! How many pictures of these shoes can I post? A lot, that's how many.

Nap time. He's so peaceful when he sleeps. I love nap time. That's when the screaming stops. For the past week he's been experimenting with different volume levels.Did I mention I MADE these? I guess you could say I'm a little proud...

Beautiful baby Mack asleep, taking a nap like a good little boy should.

Here is how we regularly find beautiful baby Mack. Not napping, not even trying to nap. Just playing with two of his best friends, Binky and Bunny.

Yes folks I've finally done it. I have single-handedly created the world's most terrifying baby toy. Introducing...Mr. Freaky Fish. I'd been holding onto an old t-shirt with a fish on it that I just couldn't bear to part with. So I did what anyone would do, and made it into a prized family heirloom, which Mack is sure to enjoy for days, nay weeks, to come.

2006-10-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

OF NOTE:
On this day, in 1861, the first transcontinental telegram was sent.
The discontinuation of the Pony Express was announced two days later.

Interesting. Here I am, 145 years latter, blogging to the WORLD (alright, maybe not the whole world, but some of the world). WOW. Communication my friends, communication. To learn a little bit more today then you'd originally planned CLICK HERE. Isn't history fascinating? You don't have to answer that, unless of course you agree with me....

2006-10-24T08:52:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been sewing more and more...and really enjoying it. Last week I made a really simple Thanksgiving/Fall table runner (I know--crafty--but it looks better than it sounds). Then, on Sunday, I made a little pouch out of two cheapish stained receiving blankets. It holds about 4 diapers and wipes. Yesterday I finished a little **surprise** Santa helped me with for Mack. I can't tell you what it is because that would ruin the **surprise**. I also just found a pattern online for soft soled baby shoes. YES! Bottom line? Before Christmas I still have the following items to sew:

shopping cart cover
Christmas stockings
3 pairs of pajamas
a handle for the car seat bag I made in August
2 or 3 pairs of shoes
several bibs

It is very likely I won't get everything done, but no one can say I didn't try. Sewing for Mack is similar to knitting scarves. Quick, not very complicated and very satisfying.

2006-10-24T05:49:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share this Photo: It seems like these "Quince Años" girls are everywhere. I've never seen one wearing white. Instead they're usually dressed in varying shades of sherbet colors, bright lime green is very popular right now. Naturally each young lady is accompanied by a well dressed young man and the two of them are followed around by group of girls with a disproportionate number of boys. It's funny, but the girl's friends wear the DARKEST (skimpiest/tightest) dresses they can find, while the image of the "Quince" conquers up visions of a light and fluffy, sweet cupcake.

2006-10-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

On of the best things about having a visitor (I say 'a' because we'll probably only get one the entire time we live here), is that it gives you the chance to finally take pictures of everyday moments. These types of photos typically become my favorite when I look back because they have so many more memories attached to them. Since all of you reading this (excluding my mom, dad and sister Karly) will probably never get the chance to come to Monterrey, I'm putting up these photos so you can get an idea of what our life looks like here...

This is the view of mountains near the Monterrey Temple, on the road to Santiago, where the market is. You follow?

Mack and my mom at the top of Obispado Hill.

Rain on our way to Zona Rosa. It's like this every time it rains, and it usually rains a couple times a week.

Here I am, nursing mack at Las Monjitas. It's this little restaurant in Zona Rosa where the servers and the cooks dress as nuns, and the menu has a papal theme. The food is both very delicious and very cheap.

Tyler on his way to the corner store.

Tyler inside the corner store, our preferred tortilla purchasing location.

Downtown Monterrey.
Don't fret, there's still more to come, but right now--I've got to run myself!

To Market, To Market

2006-10-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

These are some of the pictures my mom took while she was here. Tyler had the presence of mind to download them before she left, thank goodness. The first picture is of some children at the market we caught licking the sugar off their wax Dia de Muertos skulls. Next, is a picture of Mack and the nice woman from Oaxaca. We bought Mack a traditional Mexican outfit from her, and my mom bought an embroidered dress (you know the kind!). I thought that perhaps the sight of Mack might entice her to give us a discount and it worked! We've had to start covering Mack with the stroller canopy or making him wear a hat when we're in public because of all the attention he was getting. Apparently there is a tradition/superstition here that if you see a baby you think is cute and don't touch their head, the baby will get sick. The woman at the market LOVED Mack! In this picture she is tying a good luck trinket (black with a Mexican man and woman on each end) she gave him onto his wrist. In the last two pictures Mack is wearing the outfit we got him with and without the poncho. It's a size two (children are much shorter here) so it's still too big, but should fit him perfectly by Christmas.

2006-10-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

I don't have ANY time right now, but I L.O.V.E. this picture and wanted to get it up on our blog. It's a picture of Tyler, Mack and I at el mercado on the road to Santiago, you have to click it to get the whole effect. I think it is so beautiful, plus we had so much fun browsing all the stalls. Prepare yourselves for a picture explosion as soon as I get the time (probably sometime later tonight).

"Chévere" no significa nada en México

2006-10-12T17:09:00.000-07:00

We finally feel that we have moved into our apartment. A visit by the missionaries for dinner pretty much sealed the deal. We had Elder Simmons from Winston-Salem, NC and Elder Alvarez from Mexico City over for dinner. I had to slave over a hot stove for hours....actually that's not true at all; I ordered pizza from Domino's. There's nothing more Mexican than pizza. Well at least the American missionary enjoyed it.
In other news Mack is now a celebrity. Fern submitted an idea to RookieMoms.com and they loved it so much that they included a picture of Mack and the brilliant idea on their website. Go to RookieMoms.com Let's hope Mack doesn't decide to be a male supermodel now. I don't know how I'd feel about that.
School has hit full stride now which means that I have no life. I have to actually use a daily planner...which is kinda girly I know but I have no choice. Between meetings, classes, projects and homework I am left with just enough time to eat, sleep and hang out with Mack. Poor Fern, she supports me despite my frequent absence. Also I am still trying to pump out the resumes. My new goal is to apply to a different company each day...this may sound easy to the untrained ear but each company has separate requirements. The Amsterdam Monitor office even wanted my high school transcripts. I can hardly even remember that far back. Today I filled out two applications for strategic consultant positions with IBM. The jobs are in NYC and DC. At this point (tired of school) I am willing to live just about anywhere that is close to an ocean and a major sports franchise. But the company and Fern may have something different in mind. Lo que yo quisiera hacer de verdad es empezar mi carrera fuera de los E.E.U.U. tal vez en Europa o Asia pero siento que la decision cae totalmente sobre las empresas. Ellas indicaran el lugar donde nos tocara vivir. Escucho que para un recien egregado de la escuela de negocios es muy provechoso comenzar el empleo en una compania de consultas. De esta manera se puede ser capacitado en muchas industrias no solo en una. Algunos dicen que el trabajar en una consulteria es la mejor forma de aplicar lo que se habia aprendido en durante los estudios de la maestria. Bueno escribo en espanol solo para practicarlo no para que la mayoria de los lectores no puedan entenderlo. Les agradezco su paciencia y disculpen la falta de acentos, no tengo como ponerlos.
Oh yeah, Fern's mom is en route to beautiful Monterrey, Mexico. I have a sneaking suspicion that she is coming with the sole purpose of seeing Mack. But I'm still excited to she her.

2006-10-09T17:55:00.000-07:00

Mack is out for the count, and Tyler is at school. By way of an update, Mack sleeping habits have improved dramatically since I last mentioned them. We took a modified cry-it-out approach to night time and nap time and it worked very well for him. He goes to sleep around 7:30-8pm and only eats once around 3:30-4am, then wakes up for good sometime between 6 and 7am. Good Boy! Naps are right on track too. Sleep really does beget sleep. I sewed up Mack's Halloween costume yesterday (he's going to be a big round pumpkin). He was so patient every time I tried it on him and he really seemed to enjoy the bright color. Fabric seems relatively inexpensive here; the entire costume cost just under 50 pesos. Plus I've got fabric left over to do who knows what with. Maybe I'll make myself a pumpkin pin cushion (I'm crazy and unpredictable like that!). I also FINALLY made Tyler this 'towel apron' yesterday. The idea for the apron was in my head for weeks, but I was lacking focus. It always feels so good to bust out quick projects. It's not going to get me on Project Runway any time soon, but it was easy and fast. Here is a picture of Tyler wearing said apron, giving his best "hot, hot model" pose, bellow that is Mack wearing the onesie he helped me make for Ty. And the last one is Mack looking like such a big-kid. Sometimes he looks so old! I can't get over it.

2006-10-05T19:24:00.000-07:00

While Tyler was away at a meeting this morning, Mack and I made him a little welcome home present. Those of you who know me (which should be everyone reading this) know that my art skills --or anything involving markers for that matter-- are limited. So I am very proud of this little production. First shot, I promise. There is no 'scrap onesie' hiding in the garbage somewhere.

Mack's gotten pretty good at sitting up this past week. ANNOUNCEMENT: We are ready to officially announce that he is willing and able to sit up on his own! He just needs a little help getting there. These pictures were taken earlier this evening, after Mack's evening meal as evidenced by the green beans smeared on his clothes. He's so perfect.

After a good days work (and a trip to the fabric store) Mack was a little beat and decided to take a well deserved break . THE END.

Post Script: This pose is a Baby Mack original. He's never done this before. Learns something new every day. Sometimes several somethings.

Hot Potato, Hot Potato

2006-10-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

I might apologize for the picture explosion I'm putting up on here.... Nah. Don't think I'm going to after all.
The first two pictures are of Mack just being cute earlier today. I know, I know, he does that all the time. But it's not his fault--he gets it from his dad. The rest of the pictures are from this afternoon. We had mashed potatoes with our dinner tonight, and I gave Mack a spoonful of them on his tray to see what he'd do. First, he stuck his hand right in the middle of the pile of potatoes and just left it there for a couple of minutes. Then he smeared it over to the side of the tray. From there he tried to get it into his mouth by sucking it into the tray. It was hilarious! Do they come any cuter? I think not!

By the way, did you notice he's five months old today!! He's growing so fast.

2006-10-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

It's late and I should be in bed, but instead I'm up. Surprise. I'm putting my Drive Time Spanish Cd's on the computer so that it'll be easier to listen to them at home. Fun.
Here are some pictures from a week (or two) ago when we went to Cola de Caballo (Horsetail Falls).
The goal for tomorrow is to get Mack and I out of the house for a significant period of time, while Tyler is at school. Good Luck.

Remember the Alamo!

2006-09-30T11:25:00.000-07:00

We saw the Alamo last weekend! That's right, the real deal. That's one more thing I can check off our "To See List" (right after I make the list). I vaguely remember going there as a little girl and standing out front. This was a very neat/interesting excursion for our little family, I just wish Mack was old enough to remember it. In case you didn't know, the Alamo is free. Thank you Daughters of the Republic of Texas! In one of the side courtyards there was a man telling the story of the Alamo. He was very compelling and I now feel I can relate a little better to people being so proud to be Texans. Now, I'm wondering just how Texan I am? My Great-Grandma Dot was from Texas and my Grandma Judy was born there...Mom, Dad, do you have anymore information for me?

2006-09-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

Ironically, classes in Mexico are alot more difficult than in the United States. Maybe it has to do with the fact that it is taught in Spanish. I'm learning all the business lingo in Spanish...on top of the new business concepts. Well thats thats the school update. Mack is learning new things everyday. This morning he passed his binky from one and to another....which is a big deal. So. He likes to eat...he doesn't care what it is. Also I'm teaching him to be left-handed. There is a strong demand for left-handed pitchers in the major leagues so I'm doing it for him. He seems to favor his left anyways, I'm just pushing it further. He'll thank me later. Did anyone catch the Seahawks game on Sunday? It was over by the end of the first quarter. Next up: the Chicago Bears. Yeah I know what you're thinking...a good defense beats a good offense. Well think again. The 'Hawks recently signed Deion Branch to complement an already intimidating receiving corp (Burleson, Jackson and Engram). The MVP is out but keep an eye on Mo Morris. He's better with a 4 WR set and is also a better receiver than Shaun. Don't worry...the Hawhs will take 'em.