Daily Ramblings

Instagrammed #5...

2012-02-16T14:35:00.000-08:00

01. Happy to be home

02. Pink milk is the solution to all the world's problems

03. Creamie love

04. Bottomless pit

05. Hot pink nails and a Reese's McFlurry

06. Family dinner date

07. Summer research

Instagrammed #4..

2012-02-16T14:30:00.000-08:00

01. Playing house with cousin Easton

02. Rain boots for Seattle

03. Little shopping buddy

04. The perfect suit

05. Bruschetta pizza from Forte

06. Playing hard to get after mama's NYC trip

Amore mio...

2012-02-15T21:13:00.000-08:00

Tonight Reece and I drove up the canyon to Sundance for a belated Valentines dinner at the Foundry Grill.

The 20-minute drive was spent listening to songs from our courtship.

I really need to make an official playlist someday, though I might leave out Reece's favorite -- "Afternoon Delight" (the Anchorman version, of course).

As usual, I ended up eating more of Reece's burger and sweet potato fries than my own pizza.

In my defense, it's one-hundred percent impossible to eat just one of those sweet potato fries.

I suspect they may be infused with crack.

Sometimes I forget how much I enjoy a proper, uninterrupted conversation with my husband.

We covered several essential topics -- like Bigfoot sightings and the zombie apocalypse (not kidding on this).

Once we got the important stuff out of the way, we moved on to talk about our upcoming summer move to Seattle, our crazy offspring and our hopes to someday live abroad.

Yeah, I'm pretty glad I tricked him into marrying me.

Eight months: the James edition...

2012-02-14T22:48:00.000-08:00

The above picture adequately sums up how James felt about being photographed today.

He's never been one to hide his emotions.

At eight months, Mr. James is a bottomless pit.

Cheerios, chocolate goldfish, bread crusts, gum wrappers -- this kid will eat anything.

He also finds it extremely offensive if I eat anything in front of him without sharing.

Really, how dare I.

The boy is a growler.
It's a little creepy, but in a cute way.
Let's just hope we can break him of the habit before Kindergarten.

He's sitting up on his own.
He's scooting all over creation.
He wiggles anytime he hears music.

At eight months, Mr. James is of the very strong belief that sitting still is for the birds.
The kid never, ever, ever stops moving -- not even when he sleeps.
He's into everything, and everything goes into his mouth.

Nothing is safe.
Just ask the cats.

At eight months, James is absolutely delightful.

He's our sunshine.
He makes us laugh.
He makes us smile.

He has Reece, Lola and I wrapped around his pudgy little finger.

We love you little boy.
Please stop growing up.

love...

2012-02-14T22:23:00.000-08:00

this morning the babies woke up to find goodies from cupid.

i woke up to a kiss on the forehead from my valentine.

naturally our wardrobes consisted of pink and red.

i even put on a little bit of lipstick.

lola and "winnie mouse" dined on a heart-shaped lunch.

i dined on sees chocolates.

lola and i had a date with paper of the construction and crepe variety.

we spent the afternoon making our traditional love hearts for daddy and transforming our little basement into a lovey-dovey wonderland.

during naptime, I wrote my traditional love notes to my people while watching bones, because nothing is more romantic than forensic detective work.

I can't wait until my babies are old enough to read them -- maybe I'll pull them out during the teenage years when they might need a little persuasion to hug me.

reece brought home roses for us all -- real for me, balloon for babies.

pop pop made a wonderful dinner, spoiled his girls with jewelry and provided us with enough chocolate-covered strawberries and cake to become contestants on the Biggest Loser.

we read the babies their new valentines book, kissed them goodnight and tucked them into bed.

i'm a big fan of this day of love.

tomorrow reece and i get to celebrate together, sans babies, at the sundance grill.
my how i love my valentine.

And a few more miles...

2012-02-13T22:51:00.000-08:00

Oh Fifth Avenue.

How is it that I always feel compelled to rob a bank when I'm walking along this street?

We made a quick pitstop at Rockefeller Plaza.

I am still holding out hopes that someday I'll run into Liz Lemon or Kenneth Parcell.

Or my sexy news crush, Brian Williams.

A girl can dream, right?

I also wanted to recreate one of my favorite photos, taken during my last trip to NYC with Lola.

I got yelled at by a 30 Rock guard, who was certain that James would throw himself backward onto the cement.

He obviously didn't understand the lengths to which I'm willing to go for a good photo.

Even worse, he was blatantly insulting my son's core strength.

I fear a potential complex may be in the works...

I am a sucker for the NBC Experience Store.

Yes, it's cheesy.

But in the very, very best way.

In keeping with tradition, I bought Reece a new magnet for his "30 Rock" collection.

We ended our journey at Central Park.

A great place to end a journey, if you ask this girl.

Wish I could take walks like this one every day.

Especially when accompanied by Brandon and James.

Miles and miles...

2012-02-12T22:40:00.000-08:00

On our last (beautiful) day in New York, Brandon, James and I walked.

And walked.

Just like those pioneer children.

Being struck with a fit of insanity, our first stop was City Hall, where we battled a crowd of over a million elated (and hammered) Giants fans to catch a glimpse of the victorious Super Bowl champs in the ticker-tape parade.

We never did catch that glimpse, but the people watching was superb and James was entranced by the confetti falling from the buildings.

Turns out, drunk sports fans are very protective of babies.

A group of shirtless frat boys formed a barrier around James to protect him from the masses.

Heroes covered in blue and red paint.

And just when you thought all the Occupiers had packed up their tents and found showers, we ran into this guy:

Still scratching my head over that one.

Next stop: the Village.

James simply had to stroll down Bleeker.

We ducked into John's for lunch.

Good pizza, but can we please just have a moment of silence for Grimaldi's in Brooklyn?

I don't think I'll ever get over the loss of that place.

Little did I know, pizza crust is the key to my child's happiness.

He is most definitely my son.

After downing an entire pizza, naturally our next stop was Magnolia Bakery for cupcakes.

And then Pinkberry.

Because you can't have cake without ice cream.

Or something like that.

Constant junk food consumption requires constant exercise, thus we walked up to FIT to check out the free fashion exhibit.

One day I would like to wear a dress worth thousands of dollars.

One day.

Though my yoga pants make me feel equally luxurious...

From chiffon to Chaucer...

I adore the New York Public Library.

Let's take a break, shall we?
I told you we walked a lot...

On an unrelated note, aren't these flowers pretty?

Super Bowl Sunday...

2012-02-11T21:24:00.000-08:00

Chips.

Dip.

Chalupa.

Ice Cream.

M&Ms.

Giants.

Patriots.

Madonna.

Good, good day.

The high line...

2012-02-10T13:40:00.001-08:00

We headed north from the financial district to the meatpacking district, which is one of my favorite areas of the city.

If only I had the money to shop there.

After a bit of browsing, we headed up to the High Line, which has officially become one of my new favorite NYC gems.

It's basically a public park/walking path that has been built over an historic railway line overlooking the West Side.

Amazing views of the city, great architecture and the coolest benches you ever did see.

If I had the option to do my morning run there every day, I would never hit the snooze button.

As evidenced by the above images, the High Line also serves as the perfect setting in which to subject your child to endless posing.

And apparently being a baby in NYC elevates you to celebrity ranks, because James got a little drunk on all the attention he received from dozens of spectators during his photo shoot.

Mama may have gotten a bit tipsy as well -- after all, he IS the cutest.

The highlight of our walk on the High Line was the presence of some of our most beloved New Yorkers -- Mark and Liz Weinberg.

James was quite taken with Liz and shrieked in protest when it was finally time to say goodbye.

If you're not yet convinced that the High Line is one of the most fabulous places in the city, I'll leave you with a photo of a birdfeeder, found along the trail.

I know, right?

Now if I could only convince Reece to buy one of the apartments overlooking the park.

Someday, perhaps.

We just have to come up with an idea as brilliant as the Snuggie to make our millions...

9/11 memorial...

2012-02-10T12:08:00.001-08:00

I simply cannot get over how beautiful the weather was while we were in the city.

New York Februaries can be killer, especially when the wind gets whipping through those buildings, so I was worried about giving my child frostbite and came prepared with a Randy-worthy snowsuit just in case ("I can't put my arms down!").

Turns out, the snowsuit never left my suitcase.

Though it was cold, the sun stayed out and the wind (mostly) stayed away -- thus making me fall even more deeply in love with this place called New York.

Saturday we had reservations to view the new 9/11 memorial downtown.

It was a sacred, sad, and unforgettable experience to read the names of those lost on that horrible day, etched into the beautiful pools that sit on the original foundation of the towers.

I held it together fairly well until I saw this:

I was surprised at how many pregnant women were killed during the attacks.

For some reason, this fact really tears at my heart.

I held my boy a little tighter from that point on.

On a lighter note, I will forever get a kick out of the picture above, thanks to the guard to warned me not to throw my baby in the pool while it was being taken.

Yep, that really happened.

James got a bit cranky while we were walking through the museum (which was very, very quiet), so Kim gave him his first lollipop in an attempt to stop the growling.

It was a crazy, sticky mess, but at least it inspired some reverence.

A bit o' culture...

2012-02-09T21:21:00.000-08:00

Friday Kim, James and I hopped a train into the city.

It's hard to describe what happens to my little heart when I walk up the stairs from Penn Station onto 7th Avenue.

It doesn't matter that I've done it what feels like a million times.

To me, it's nothing short of magic.

It would have been magical for Reece if he had been there, thanks to the gigantic, all-seeing Gloria.

We made our way uptown to the Guggenheim, which was a bit of a bust since more than half of the museum was closed for the construction of an upcoming exhibit.

But man, the architecture of that building is rad.

From there we headed to the Met, one of my favorite places on earth.

James left behind a trail of cheerios to keep us from getting lost -- which is a very real possibility in the Met.

Very Hansel and Gretel of him, if you ask me.

I used the map function on my phone for the first time (it only took me an hour to figure out!) in order to hunt down the nearest Pinkberry.

Naturally.

We spent the rest of the evening window shopping (with a bit of actual shopping done in H&M -- I'm powerless against its wiles) and wandering the city streets.

Oh how I love this city.

Morristown...

2012-02-09T20:21:00.000-08:00

We spent our first New Jersey day digging for treasure at a few local consignment stores and wandering around downtown Morristown with Auntie Kim.

I love, love, love East Coast towns.

Morristown is particularly charming, thanks to its beautiful churches and quaint shops.

It is also home to The Seeing Eye, the organization that trains guide dogs for the blind.

My aunt has been a volunteer there for years -- lucky lady.

We saw dozens of beautiful dogs and their students out walking along with us.

Please note I am not holding the arm of an actual Seeing Eye student, but a statue of the founder. Eerily lifelike, no?

James was in heaven.

I've got a little dog lover on my hands.

Eastward...

2012-02-09T20:06:00.000-08:00

James and I just returned from a week on the East Coast.

It was a lovely trip full of lots of firsts:

James' first flight (which we both survived, albeit just barely).

His first time in one of his mama's most beloved cities (oh, New York, let me count the ways).

My first run-in with a million-plus Giants fans (navigating a stroller through a sea of drunk football enthusiasts is tricky business).

The Riries were kind enough to take us in.

Sure, New York City has some cool stuff, but nothing really beats the Randolph Diner, staring contests with cousin Brandon and sharing Cheerios with Shelby the pup.

We heart Jersey.

So, prepare yourself for a visual overload.

Because iPhones make it very easy for one to snap about four-gazillion pictures, particularly while on vacation.

The perfect gift...

2012-01-23T22:34:00.000-08:00

Note from my mother on my 27th birthday...

Dear Jessica,

Lola and I wish you a very happy birthday!

Twenty-seven years ago today your dad gave me this gift and I have loved them.

I hope you will enjoy them as much as I have.

Take good care of them and one day Lola can have them.

You have been the greatest gift to your dad and I -- we love you more than we can express and we are pleased with the way you conduct your life.

Happy birthday!

Love,

Mom & Dad

If you've ever wondered what the perfect gift looks like, this is absolutely, 100-percent it.

82 candles...

2012-01-22T23:11:00.000-08:00

My dad's birthday happens to be the day after mine, which is awesome because that means cake for two days straight.

And it's a good thing, too, because cake turned out to be the perfect way to drown our deep, excruciating sorrow over the 49ers painful loss.

My sweet mother whipped up the dinner of all birthday dinners, and the college kids came home for the day to celebrate with us (we missed Alysha and Jason terribly).

I love my crazy family.

When it comes to food, James is proving to be insanely assertive.

What was supposed to be a gushy photo op quickly turned into damage control when the boy grabbed the caramel frosting off one of the chocolate cupcakes and wasted no time shoving it directly into his mouth.

At least we know he won't be afraid of his first birthday cake (poor Lola).

We didn't have birthday candles, but we Rogers are known for our unparalleled improvisational skills.

Happy birthday to my wonderful father!

It takes a great man to willingly share his birthday cake with his daughter, and for that I will be eternally grateful.

Here's to hoping all the chocolate can pull him out of the deep depression that all die-hard Niners fans are battling tonight.

Turning 27...

2012-01-22T22:31:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I bid a fond farewell to 26, determined to embrace the number 27.

And embrace it, I did...

in the form of binge eating.

Reece and I enjoyed a romantic (and kid-free!) dinner at La Jolla Groves.

I went a little crazy and ordered a diet coke with lemon instead of my usual water -- crushing my guilt by gulping 12 refills to justify the $2.50.

Totally worth the zero sleep that followed...

Here's to hoping 27 brings more dates with my husband.

Also, let it be known that I would willingly shave my own head if it meant I could eat this lemon cake with vanilla bean sauce every day...

The morning of my birthday brought celebratory french toast at Kneaders with Reilly.

The Maudsleys kindly braved the snowstorm for a visit and Cindy and I were able to sneak away for pizza and birthday (aka complimentary) gelato at Terra Mia.

The boys did a great job of holding down the fort while we were away.

Our princesses kept themselves busy with a tea party, naturally.

We rounded out the birthday with a serious game of bowling.

Because there's no better way to say, "bring it on, 27" than by chucking a very heavy ball down a wooden ramp.

At least not in my book.

It was a lovely day.

A million thanks to the friends and family who called, emailed, sent texts, left messages and made me feel so loved.

I am one lucky 27-year-old.

A 27-year-old who now has about ten pounds to work off.

Birthdays are fattening, after all.

Guys and dolls...

2012-01-22T14:49:00.000-08:00

Lola was thrilled to finally meet baby Eva last weekend.

She couldn't wait to hold her, feed her and love on her.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the couch...

Boys will be boys.

It's obvious James is thrilled to be getting the occasional break from the suffocating estrogen in his life.

She's got it...

2012-01-19T10:36:00.000-08:00

The best thing about birthday months is all the free meals restaurants throw at you.

I love food, and I LOVE free stuff.

A few weekends ago, we cashed in on some grub gratis at Tucanos (which, by the way, is kind of my worst nightmare -- meat on a stick? Caca) with the Wheatleys.

The worst thing about free birthday meals is the way the restaurant punishes you by forcing you to stand up and hold a maracca while servers sing at the top of their lungs.

That will teach you to redeem that coupon.

At least I wasn't alone in my shame.

The best part of the meal came when Lola picked up the red and green meat stick thing, yelled, "I've got the power!" and whacked Reece in the head.

My kid is nuts.

But let's face it, she does have the power.

Currently can't live without...

2012-01-18T23:07:00.000-08:00

reece: grandpa sweaters, the mondo laptop, holiday weekends, pandora, lola kisses

jessica: downton abbey, parenthood, jet blue, chocolate pudding with whipped cream, naptime (is it wrong that two of my five "must haves" are television shows? Netflix will be the death of me...)

lola: snow white princess dress, strawberry "pink" milk (aka pure sugar), winnie + zoe, "slinky" the giraffe, binkies (PLEASE HELP ME GET RID OF THE THINGS!!!)

james: stuff on which to chew (yes, this includes my chest... and yes, I fear for my life), Sophie the Giraffe, constant attention, ice cream

Eating my feelings...

2012-01-16T00:11:00.000-08:00

Reece went to Vegas with one of his good friends last week for what he proudly describes as "the biggest nerd conference in the universe" -- CES.

He and some other MBAs created a "consulting" company -- appropriately titled "Zoobietech" -- in order to get in.

Hehe.

It was kind of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for him, and he definitely deserved the break.

Plus, he got in some good manly male bonding time, which is always rad.

The kids and I kept ourselves busy with play dates and outings in order to avoid going stir crazy.

We went to "The Chocolate" with the Carpenter girls for a little afternoon tea party to celebrate Reilly's birthday.

We went to story time at the Provo Library with a group of our BYU friends.

The puppets terrified Lola at first, but she warmed up to the idea in the end.

We went shopping.

A lot.

That'll teach daddy to think twice before leaving us again.

Except that we didn't actually spend any money.

Zing.

We played a lot of dress up.

We paid a birthday visit to Cindy and cuddled sweet baby Phoebe.

My babies were very good to me during the four days their daddy was away.

Heaven bless them for that.

But on my last night as a temporarily-single mother, after a few tantrums and very, very little sleep, I found myself devouring the following atrocity at 12:30 a.m.

It's official.

Reece is never allowed to leave me again.

My arteries depend on it.

We are very, very, very glad to have our Reecey home.

Two and a half years of Lola girl...

2012-01-15T23:33:00.000-08:00

Dear bird,

I have just one question for you:
How on earth did you get to be thirty months?

You act so grown up.
You insist on making your own decisions -- you choose your outfits (always dresses or skirts), you choose your meals (to a degree -- fruit snacks are NOT a food group, as much as you'd like to convince me otherwise), you choose the movies we watch and the books we read, you choose which accessories are essential for public outings (let it be known that the pink pumpkin bucket is YOUR idea, just in case you see these pictures as a teenager and feel the urge to chastise your mother like I did mine) -- you are most certainly the queen of the world of the earth.

You love your books.
CATS is your bedtime story of choice, and I can't help but laugh every time you sound out "catastrophe!"

You love to dance -- spontaneous dance parties are not uncommon for us.
You love to sing -- Adele's "21" album is your current cup of tea, and you know (and belt) every word of "Yoya's song" (aka Someone Like You) every time we get in the car.

You love to pray, and don't take well to other people attempting to steal your duty at mealtimes.
Your bedtime prayers are the best part of our day.

You are one hundred percent girl.
If it's pink, sparkly or made of tulle -- you must have it.
Princess dresses are your uniform.
You love to cook in your pink kitchen.
You beg for tea parties by the hour.

You are so smart it scares us sometimes.
You observe everyone and everything in your little world, and you never, ever forget.
This is not awesome, because your dad and I slip up a little too much for comfort.

You are your brother's greatest advocate and his very best friend.
You insist on holding his hand as I change his diaper.
You make him laugh just by throwing a glance his way.
He adores you and you adore him.

You are a big goof.
Your favorite term of endearment (at least that's what we think it is) is "Caca Boy."
"I love you so much, you caca boy!"

I have absolutely no idea where you get these things.

You have a huge heart.
You are a daddy's girl through and through, but you still let me hold you tight when you're sad, sick or exhausted.
You stroke my hair and tell me I'm a beautiful girl and in those moments I would give you anything you asked if I could.

I love you so much, daughter of mine.

Love,

Mommy Jes-kah

One big, happy family...

2012-01-15T16:30:00.000-08:00

As a Christmas gift to our parents this year, the Rogers siblings booked a photographer to take portraits of the whole clan.

This is the first official photo session we've had in about seven years, and with freezing temperatures, two babies and four slightly immature (yet hilarious) adult males, it was an adventure.

Despite all the craziness, we managed to get few winning shots...

We had the photographer snap a few photos of our little family, because why not, right?

The kids did very well.
The men whined. A lot.
We all laughed quite a bit.

Overall it was a lovely afternoon.

Eva Jane...

2012-01-14T22:59:00.000-08:00

On Thursday we got a niece.

A tiny, beautiful, sweet and perfect little niece.

Upon hearing the news of Eva Jane's birth, Lola announced, "Don't worry mom, she can wear my princess dresses."

Dianna, I see a lot of cousin tea parties in our future.

James and I got to meet the mini princess today.

We are both very, very big fans.

Welcome to the family little Eva!

We love you.

Oh, and James is freakin' huge, right?

Seven months: the James edition...

2012-01-14T22:41:00.000-08:00

Today my baby is closer to one than he is to zero, and that, my friends, is cah-ray-zee.

This sweet, blue-eyed boy of mine continues to make life so beautiful for our little family.

This month, he discovered his voice in a big way and quickly determined that he loves it.

Thus, he often makes himself known whenever anyone else tries to talk, and his high-pitched squeal dominates every time.

He got his first ear infection and a double eye infection last week and never stopped smiling through it all (except when I came at him with the eye drops -- I think this kid could be a professional boxer someday). I can't get over how happy he is, how content he is just to be surrounded by people.

He HATES being left alone, which has made it difficult for me to get anything done.

His sweet Lola is always a willing source of entertainment for him and will sing and/or dance for him for hours (I pay her in fruit snacks).

James adores her, and they have a lovely friendship that melts my heart into a puddle.

Often I'll hear giggling from the next room and enter to find my children laying next to each other on a blanket cuddling (or in James' case, grabbing Lola's face).

I hope they stay this way forever.

My boy loves to eat, and yells at me when I'm not getting the food into his mouth at a pace which suits him.

Boy oh boy, is he a yeller.

He doesn't even really cry anymore -- it's all about the yelling.

As far as milestones go, he is officially sitting up on his own and will probably be crawling any day now -- a fact that terrifies me and amuses me at the same time.

Since he got sick his sleep schedule went out the window -- meaning he just doesn't sleep.

It's back to zombieland for me.

At least I'll be ready for the pending apocalypse...

The kid puts everything in his mouth, something we never had to worry about with Lola.

I caught him sucking on a dirty diaper the other day and realized I should probably take this pastime seriously...

He hates his binky.

He loves Sofi the giraffe.

Nothing is safe from his little fingers.

I swear he can say "thank you"

We are so in love with this little man.

I am so grateful to be his mother.

I just wish he would be more obedient and stop growing up so fast.

Happy seven months, Mister Jams!

Camera shy...

2012-01-10T22:08:00.000-08:00

We recently had family portraits taken (more on that later), and while we managed to get some fantastic shots, I laughed for a good twenty minutes when I saw these...

Lessons learned:

They don't like when we kiss, and no amount of candy can get Lola to smile when she doesn't want to.

Love these babies of mine.

Instagrammed #3...

2012-01-08T16:02:00.000-08:00

01. happy even when sick
02. the muppets
03. white chocolate macadamia/chocolate chip cazookie and iced milk with reilly
04. princess putting on her makeup
05. food bores her
06. baby girl hungry
07. baby it's cold outside
08. conquering the carousel phobia

Instagrammed #2...

2012-01-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

01. tasting tomato soup with pop pop

02. father-son bonding over world war z

03. ikea play date with the wheatleys

04. big boy in a little cart

05. beautiful prints from shannon (http://blog.plumstreetprints.com/)

06. sweet tomatoes with her sweetheart, cohen

07. farewell lunch with e, vieve and shan

08. back to the newsroom

Instagrammed #1...

2012-01-08T15:46:00.000-08:00

Let's just pretend like my main motivation for finally switching to an iPhone wasn't the Instagram app.

I'm completely addicted, and even though I have no idea how to do anything else with my phone, I consider it a worthwhile purchase.

Lately...

01. family sushi night

02. keeping the peace at blickenstaff's

03. smokin' at candy poker with the siblings

04. showing up to the bountiful christmas party as tara's twin

05. post-bedtime movie watching

06. lunch at hagermann's with the italy ladies

07. naptime for daddy

08. anticipating baby phoebe's arrival at lds hospital

Resolved...

2012-01-04T22:07:00.000-08:00

I've never really been one to make New Year's resolutions -- likely because I'm not awesome at long-term follow through.

But this year, I feel compelled to set one realistic goal for myself.

Not so much a resolution as a self-improvement project, I suppose.

I've been the recipient of countless acts of kindness in my nearly 27 years of life.

Kindness exhibited by coworkers, friends, family, strangers, pets, caffeinated beverages -- you name it.

That kindness has come in many forms...

an email

a text message

a phone call

a baby gift

a thank you card

a birthday wish

an opened door

a smile

a beautiful print

a free ice cream cone

a ride

a warning instead of a speeding ticket

a free place to stay

a meal

a back rub

a babysitting session

These acts of kindness -- be they simple or grandiose -- have made me feel loved.

They've made me feel special.

They've made me feel needed.

And, most importantly, they've helped me feel less alone -- particularly at times in my life when loneliness abounded.

The sad thing is, I haven't been much of a giver of such kindness.

I often forget to write that thank you note, to send those flowers, to let that person know they are important.

And that is just not okay.

So this year, I want to reciprocate.

I want, I need, to be more thoughtful.

I want to be a better friend.

I want to be a better wife, mother, sister, daughter, granddaughter, niece, etc.

I want to become a more thoughtful person.

To take the time required to return those many kindnesses that have both pulled me through the tough stuff and helped me feel the most content.

This is one resolution I feel very compelled to keep.

The other?

Make sure my babies never once doubt how much I love them...

Thanks for the beautiful photos Mark!

www.mlwphotos.com

The eve of 2012...

2012-01-02T23:41:00.000-08:00

To be honest, I wasn't planning to make it to midnight this year.

A toddler and a 6-month-old provide the perfect excuse for me to embrace my inner senior citizen and hit the pillow no later than nine.

But when the Weinbergs call, you down seven cans of Diet Dr. Pepper and party until the break of dawn, which is precisely what we did.

We dined on our traditional Cafe Rio-inspired feast.

And then, to balance things out a bit, we had a dance party.

I've always found it fascinating how loud music and crazy dance moves lull my boy to sleep.

Lola (who was supposed to be in bed by 9:30 but ended up dancing until about 12:30) got a one-on-one lesson in photography from one of the most talented people in the field.

Mark, you can just send the bill to my parents.

When the magic hour finally came, there was plenty of bubbly, confetti and smooches to go around.

There could simply not have been a better way to ring in the new year (with the exception of having Alysha, Jason, Kelly and Michael there as well).

2011 was good to us.

Bring it on, 2012.

Gross.

I've most definitely maxed out my "kissy photo" allowance for the year.

Christmas #2...

2012-01-01T21:20:00.000-08:00

We kicked off Christmas afternoon with my family by consuming our traditional homemade egg mcmuffins and attempting to prevent Lola from hyperventilating upon spotting yet another mound of gifts bearing her name.

It was almost too much for her little heart to take.

Santa brought our girl a Lola-sized shopping cart, which he left on the doorstep since Lola had been very adamant about the fact that "that guy is not coming into my house."

Way to respect her wishes, Santa.

Nana and Pop Pop surprised her with a pink princess kitchen, which completely sent her over the edge.

She now spends her days preparing pancakes, noodles, graham crackers, pretzels and chicken.

James received a jumperoo and has converted the baby pudge on his leggies to pure muscle from his nonstop bounce sessions.

It's quite adorable, if you ask me.

We spent the rest of the day lounging, munching on treats, catching up on sleep and enjoying good company.

We feasted on roast, salmon, chicken and all manner of delicacies prepared by my mama, who happens to be my favorite cook.

It was lovely.

But my favorite part of the day came after we tucked our exhausted, happy babies in their beds and snuggled up in ours -- wholeheartedly agreeing with our 2-year-old's declaration that this was "the best Christmas EVER!"

Christmas Day in the morning...

2011-12-30T23:31:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning started bright and early in Bountiful.

I've never seen Lola so chipper at 7 a.m.

I think a certain Princess Belle PEZ dispenser had something to do with it.

James was quite enthralled with the new binkies Santa (aka Pop Pop and Nana) left in his stocking.

Or at least with the cardboard packaging.

And Reece will wake up at any hour if it means he can eat Ford's beef jerky.

Santa is always good to him that way.

I'm pretty sure Santa hates me, because there's nothing quite as offensive as jerky breath.

With each tear of the wrapping paper, Lola's joy became more complete.

James was equally elated, both with his gifts (which went straight into his mouth) and the bows that adorned them.

We loved spending our Christmas morning with Tony, Cyndi, Kellan and Christen.

We were spoiled silly and are so grateful to our Ivins family for being so generous.

Though it was difficult getting my brood ready and out the door for 9 a.m. church with so many toys waiting to be admired (Reece really, really wanted to bring his new HEXBUG Nano along), I am grateful Christmas fell on a Sunday this year.

It was a wonderful and beautiful way to refocus on what is most important -- our faith, our family and our Savior.

But goodness gracious, Lola has never been so rambunctious in Sacrament meeting.

It's a good thing Christmas comes just once a year.

Back at Nana and Pop Pop's house, Lola put on each of her new princess dresses before crashing hard on the way down to Lindon for Christmas number two.

The Christmas morning hangover is a little person's arch nemesis, especially when there are more presents to open.

Christmas Eve top ten...

2011-12-30T22:09:00.000-08:00

10. Rocking out to Christmas tunes with Lola on the drive to SLC.

09. Driving around our beloved former city handing out gloves, hats and McDonald's gift certificates to people who most likely didn't have a warm place to sleep -- a Rogers family tradition.

08. Watching Reece attempt to give said hat, gloves and a McDonald's gift certificates to a "homeless man" who wasn't homeless at all -- just a bit hygienically challenged.

07. A Cafe Rio lunch with my family -- so good to have everyone home again.

06. Spaghetti dinner with the Ivins.

05. Reece and Di attempting (unsuccessfully) to reenact their painfully awkward sophomore dance picture.

04. Babies using Christen, Kellan and each other as a jungle gym.

03. The reading of this year's Christmas story with Nana and Pop Pop.

02. The sibling/cousin gift exchange.

Gift of the year award goes to Kellan for finding Redd a Tobias Funke never-nude shirt.

Runner up goes to Dana for Reece's giant air gun thingamajigger -- he would sleep with the thing if I let him.

01. Excited (and exhausted) kidlets lounging under the tree in their Christmas pjs before we tucked them in bed to await Santa's arrival.

I'm not even a bit embarrassed to admit that I had a much harder time falling asleep than my children.

Christmas Eve gets better with each passing year.

Santa baby...

2011-12-25T23:09:00.000-08:00

A very merry Christmas from our crazy bunch to yours.

This holiday will go down in the Ivins family history books as one of the most magical on record.

Our weekend was filled with food, ridiculous amounts of wrapping paper and most importantly, family.

We are so grateful for the birth of our Savior, and for the blessing it was to celebrate that sacred event together.

Many more details to come, but for now, to all a goodnight.

We're so glad when daddy comes home...

2011-12-21T21:43:00.000-08:00

Life around here has been pretty sweet since Reece finished school.

We are in full Christmas mode -- meaning we are busy hanging out all day under the tree, dancing to Christmas music, navigating the mall, wrapping presents, eating treats, making stockings and watching (and eating in macaroni and cheese form) Frosty the Snowman.

Did I mention we are all sleeping in until nine every morning?

A Christmas miracle.

In a nutshell -- this is my idea of heaven.

Monkey see, monkey do...

2011-12-21T21:13:00.000-08:00

Tonight this little person...

Put this guy...

in the time out chair.

Daddy must learn that burping is gross and will not be tolerated in our home.

Lola girl runs a tight ship.

She led him to his corner and commanded him to "be sad."

But once Reece shed a few fake tears, she flipped her position and beseeched him to "just be happy! just smile!"

He thought he was home free and tried to stand up, to which Lola sternly cried, "NOT UNTIL YOU'RE SORRY!!!"

Reece's apology was enough to get him out of the chair, but not enough to convince Lola he had completely changed his ways.

Thus, he was forced to stare at the Christmas tree for five minutes, just for good measure.

Oh Lola, how we love you.

Finally...

2011-12-18T20:06:00.000-08:00

It's done.

The late nights.

The early mornings.

The endless study sessions.

The diet of caffeine, sugar and fast food.

The crazy stress.

The single parenthood.

Reece has officially completed his first semester of graduate school, and I for one could not be more thrilled.

[insert sigh of relief here]

I can't even begin to describe how fantastic it feels to know that my husband will still be at my side when I wake up tomorrow morning.

That hasn't happened in months.

I intend to squeeze every last drop of goodness out of every single one of the 14+ days of Reece's break.

So much so, in fact, that he'll most likely be begging to go back to class by January.

To celebrate the end of finals week, we left our girl with a sitter and went out on the town with the Ellisses and the Wildings for pizza, cupcakes and the new Sherlock Holmes.

Totally digging this whole "having a husband again" thing.

And I'm so very proud of that husband of mine.

From the mouth of Lola...

2011-12-15T22:13:00.000-08:00

While watching "Joy to the World"...

"Daddy, are there tacos in this movie?"

I have no idea where she gets this stuff, but she makes me laugh every single day.

Love my goofy girl.

Six months: the James edition

2011-12-14T21:56:00.001-08:00

Today we celebrate six months of James Reece.

We've hit some serious milestones over the past four weeks.

The boy sprouted his two bottom teeth (please pray for me).

He learned to sit up on his own (as long as there is something for him to reach for -- preferably something chewable).

He rolls at the speed of light (and often ends up under the Christmas tree).

He rarely stops chattering -- his current favorite words being "dada" "mama" and "doodoo."

I have three people who will go on the record saying he said "hello" at dinner tonight.

He still looooooves his mama, and his mama still looooooooves that fact.

He's still nursing but enjoys an occasional bowl of baby oatmeal or a smushed banana.

He still prefers ice cream over any of the above.

He weighs almost seventeen pounds and measures 26 inches long.

He's FINALLY sleeping through the night, so his mama is no longer a complete zombie, which makes everyone happy.

Unfortunately, he now skimps on naps.

But he's so pleasant when he's awake, I don't even mind.

He adores his sister.

Unless she tries to steal his glory -- then things get ugly.

To which she responds...

Oh how I love my monkeys.

Just like his older sister, James Reece is such a blessing.

He makes me smile.

He makes me laugh.

He makes me calm.

He makes me grateful.

He makes me wonder what I ever did to deserve him.

Happy six months to my baby boy!

King James...

2011-12-13T21:45:00.000-08:00

Not really loving his crown...

Lovebirds and lollipops...

2011-12-13T21:34:00.000-08:00

It's happening.

I thought I had at least ten years, but apparently not.

My two-year-old daughter is completely twitterpated.

Poor little Cohen didn't even see it coming.

She followed him around like a bodyguard.

She refused to let go of his hand all afternoon.

She offered him all her worldly possessions.

She smothered him with about twenty thousand (somewhat unwanted) kisses.

Oh yes, Lola bird is coo coo for Cohen.

Which was great, because it gave Erica and I time to make these:

I have a feeling my girl will need to eat a few bonbons when I inform her she's not allowed to pursue this romance for another fourteen years.

Five babies and a cabin...

2011-12-10T14:37:00.001-08:00

We just returned from an amazing weekend at a cabin near Heber with some of our wonderful friends.

There is really nothing quite like cozying up next to a big fire, feasting on guacamole, hummus and pizza while gabbing the night away and watching "Elf" about 40,000 times with people you truly love.

Our motley crew was composed of six adults, two toddlers and three infants.

It was nothing short of epic.

Mitch, E and Shannon (minus little Vieve)

Jenny, Penelope and Marty

Candace and Jared

Lola and E enjoyed a few stories with Shan before bed.

As you can see, Lola is quite taken with Emerson, but who wouldn't be?

None of us got much sleep.

We stayed up waaaaayyy too late in the first place (totally worth it), and around 4 a.m. I heard Lola saying, "Dad, can I brush my teeth? Where's my pony paste? Do you like the color yellow? Dad, WAKE UP!!!"

Next I heard Reece saying something like, "KSDJF:OWIEJFOEIWJ:JIWEFE:OIJ... sleep!"

Yeah, it was rough.

This morning we woke up and made french toast with Great Harvest cinnamon burst bread, because there's no other way to make french toast.

And then it was time to bundle up the babes for some sledding.

Poor Lola was quite traumatized because all she wanted to do was throw a snowball, and her dummy of a mother forgot to pack gloves.

Who am I kidding though?

I haven't even purchased a pair of Lola gloves yet.

My completely ineffectual way of protesting winter, I suppose.

James wasn't too keen on all the layers, but the intense bundling kept him from protesting too loudly.

I love sledding.

Apparently I had forgotten how much.

It's especially fantastic when you're wearing skinny jeans instead of snow pants and the "brake" breaks halfway down the hill.

Candace and I almost died.

Laughing, that is.

Lola insisted on watching Reece tackle the hill from the window.

She was riveted.

I'm hoping my girl will warm up to the sport before winter is over, because I think she'd love it.

We feel so lucky to have such lovely friends.

And spending 48 uninterrupted hours with my little family was a very rare treat that I needed more than I realized.

Thanks to Jared and Candace for hosting our crazy bunch!

The death of a legend...

2011-12-08T21:52:00.001-08:00

Ever since she was born, Lola has rocked a very impressive mullet.

Even when all the hair on top of her head fell out around three or four weeks, the party in the back raged on, thus providing the foundation for a lifelong, legendary hairstyle.

At one point, the mullet began to curl on its own -- making it absolutely impossible for me to even consider cutting it off because I was head over heels for that curl.

Until tonight.

I don't even know what possessed me to do such a drastic and life-altering thing.

She was fresh out of the tub, the mullet (which had actually become more of a rat tail of late) was swinging behind her as she twirled, and before I knew it I had my mother's haircutting scissors in hand.

The moment I made that fateful snip, my heart broke a little and I had to fight back tears.

Holding that chunk of strawberry blonde curls -- it was almost too much for this mama to take.

The good news is, Lola adores her new bob.

She calls it her "little small hair" and spent the evening thanking me profusely for cutting off her "big hair."

This is a relief to me.

I was worried about long-term emotional damage.

Before she even turned one, we would always ask her if we could cut off her mullet.

Her response was always the same (and it never failed to make us laugh): a very firm "no, no, no, no, no!"

I should have listened to her.

I miss my baby's mullet.

Because her little bob makes her look too grown up.

Goodness gracious, my little girl is gorgeous.

PS - Reece might divorce me for cutting off his baby's hair. The face he gave me when we walked downstairs to show him the new do... let's just say if looks could kill, I would be a zombie (because I'm on kind of a zombie kick these days).

PPS - I am a terrible stylist and will be calling my friend Erica in the morning to clean up the damage.

Back to school, back to school...

2011-12-07T22:50:00.001-08:00

About once a month, I have the same nightmare.

The details change, but the heart-stopping terror is always the same.

It goes a little something like this...

I wake up late and rush to class, only to realize I forgot to put on pants.

I turn to run out just as the professor calls me up to give a giant presentation that I completely forgot to put together.

And the thing is, I always wake up far more mortified over my lack of preparation than my lack of pants.

I think there might be something seriously wrong with me.

Sometimes the dream involves a forgotten final, an unfinished paper or a hard drive being wiped clean.

College, man.

It does a number on the psyche.

Tonight, for a few hours, I assumed the role of university student once again, this time fully awake.

Several of Reece's professors offered to teach a few classes for the MBA spouses -- giving us a taste of what our husbands/wives do all day (besides playing foosball in the lounge).

I've been pretty jazzed about the whole thing since I signed up over a week ago.

I had every intention to memorize the cases we were asked to study beforehand, so that if I were to become the victim of the dreaded "cold call," I could stun those PhDs with my wit, intelligence and charm.

Yeah, ten minutes before I had to leave, I realized I hadn't even opened the email that contained said cases.

A lot can happen in a week.

I'm not kidding when I say the panic that always awaits me the moment I wake up from my recurring nightmare hit me like a school bus, and I nearly hyperventilated.

Reece had to remind me about a dozen times that I was going to be fine, that this was just for fun and that I needed to get a freakin' grip.

Turns out he was right.

I was fine.

I called upon my BS skills (honed to perfection as an undergrad) to avoid any major catastrophe when called upon.

And I even remembered to wear pants.

I actually quite enjoyed myself.

I've said it before, and I'm about to say it again:

I'm so incredibly grateful that Reece gets to do what he's doing -- working with some of the best and the brightest people in the world and learning phenomenal life lessons along the way.

I am glad I get to be a part of it too.

But I'm really, really glad I don't have to be the one in class every day, because I think all my hair would fall out.

He's a lot better at handling stress than I am, and he prefers to go pantsless anyway...

Candy construction...

2011-12-05T21:14:00.001-08:00

Tonight we put on our hard hats and our stretchy pants and constructed a house made of gingerbread with the Wisemans.

The menfolk took care of the walls and roof.

The ladies oversaw the decor.

The kids tackled the candy demolition with mad skill.

I'm fairly certain Lola ate about seven pounds of candy, but this being her first gingerbread house experience, we didn't have the heart to intervene.

I guess it's a good thing the baby teeth fall out anyway...

We ended the evening with twirling and a few episodes of Parks & Recreation.

It was good.

December Sundays...

2011-12-04T21:43:00.001-08:00

I love Sundays.

Best day of the week, hands down.

Especially during the holidays.

I spent the majority of my day laying by the fireplace under the tree, reading my Kindle and snuggling with my little family.

This Sunday was particularly fabulous, thanks to the Thanksgiving-style feast my mom prepared.

Since Kelly was in Paris and Adam and my parents were in Portland for the actual holiday, we were so happy to get a do-over with them.

Besides, it wouldn't be a true Thanksgiving without my mom's stuffing.

Kelly and I baked and decorated sugar cookies while we all watched the First Presidency Christmas Devotional, which was wonderful.

I loved President Uchtdorf's counsel to remember and reconnect with our Savior, and not to let our quest to create the "perfect Christmas" get in the way of cherishing the true spirit of the season.

Something I most definitely needed to hear.

Both my babies went to bed at a decent hour, and Reece and I plan to follow suit.

Oh how I love Sundays.

Thanksgiving at Christmas...

2011-12-02T22:36:00.001-08:00

Things I learned from our trip to the lights at Thanksgiving Point

by Jessica Maria Ivins

01. Christmas music puts James to sleep

02. Lola is only a fan of Santa when he appears in light form

03. Reece is happier about spending money when he gets to see dinosaurs

04. Ice cream is amazing, even when it's freezing outside

05. Candy cane fudge tastes way better than it sounds

06. Taking a family picture in front of a real-life reindeer is like pulling teeth

07. Lola thinks her dad is a creeper. Her exact words were, "Dad, you're creepy. But Lola is fun."

Good thing he decided to pass on growing a mustache for Movember.

The end.

A festive tradition...

2011-12-02T21:49:00.001-08:00

Di and I paid our annual visit to the Festival of Trees this week.

This year, Cyndi, Dana, Christen and a very jet-lagged Kelly joined us, and it was lovely.

Despite the crowds and the fact that all the trees start to look the same after wandering down the first few aisles, this is a tradition to which I've grown quite attached.

Lola was exhausted but quickly became entranced by the lights and toys and trees -- a Christmas miracle, right there.

Also, I think the Snoopy gingerbread house completely outshone the White House.

Just one girl's opinion.

2011 Holiday bucket list:

2011-12-01T22:09:00.001-08:00

{ice skating at the gallivan center}

{lights at temple square}

{zoo lights at hogle}

{gingerbread house construction]

{lights at thanksgiving point}

{~~building a snowman~~}

{~~visit santa~~}

{~~lighting of the riverwoods~~}

{read luke 2 and let lola set up the nativity}

{~~decorate the tree~~}

{visit SLC deseret book christmas window display}

{sub for santa}

{angel tree}

{provo winterfest}

{~~festival of trees~~}

{ugly sweater party}

{pg high christmas concert}

Ambitious?

Perhaps.

Likelihood of crossing everything off the list?

About 25 percent.

But I've got holiday cheer oozing out my eyeballs.

Poor, poor Reece.

Magic box...

2011-12-01T21:20:00.001-08:00

It's December!

The Pandora Christmas station provides our daily soundtrack.

The fireplace keeps us toasty.

Hot cocoa is always within my reach.

I've eaten one too many candy cane tootsie pops and my teeth are about to fall out.

Oh how I love this time of year.

I had every intention to make an advent calendar from scratch this year -- all in the name of my quest to be more domestic.

But time has a way of slipping from me these days, and, to be frank, anything that could be categorized as "crafty" has a way of intimidating me to the point of hysteria.

It's a well-known fact that I'm a full-fledged disaster in that department.

My name is on blacklists at every craft store in the country.

Thus, the Magic Christmas Box was born.

Left under our tree by Santa's elf, "Pink," this box will help us count down to Christmas.

Pink plans to leave a little surprise (and accompanying note) inside every day to help us get into the spirit of the season.

With 24 days left until the big one, Pink left us a princess shoe to hang on our tree.

I think this tradition is going to become a favorite -- especially for me.

My sweet girl can't wait to see what Pink has in store for her tomorrow, and I can't wait to sit by and watch the reaction.

Also, KELLY IS HOME!!!!!!!

We missed our little Parisian with all our hearts, and my kids are over the moon about having their auntie around once again.

Now we're just counting down to Jason and Alysha's arrival, and life for the Ivins kids (and their mama) will truly be complete.

Happy first day of Christmas to all!

Why, thanks: the end...

2011-11-30T21:56:00.001-08:00

I've clearly been off my game with my gratitude lists lately.

Here we are at the end of November, and I'm not sure where the month went or how we could possibly be just 25 days away from Christmas...

Yikes.

Anyway...

I feel I could write a novel filled with all the blessings we've seen over the past year.

Despite several significant stumbles, life has been so very sweet.

And with that, I intend to finish my thankful list for November 2011...

twenty three: my education and the places it has taken me, the people it has brought into my life and the world it has allowed me to see.

twenty four: the time I get to spend with Reece after our babies are asleep, and the way we laugh so hard together our cheeks hurt.

twenty five: my faith.

twenty six: the way James squeals with happiness the moment I walk into a room -- no one has ever adored me the way he does and I'm not at all ashamed to say that I LOVE it.

twenty seven: Reece's education and the doors it has opened for our future.

twenty eight: my job and the things it has taught me about myself.

twenty nine: my wedding ring.

thirty: family pictures.

Goodbye November!
You've been good to us.

Oh Christmas Tree...

2011-11-29T20:15:00.001-08:00

Lola, James and I are battling our first colds of the season -- definitely not the kind of "first" we look forward to this time of year.

My daily uniform has been sweats and James lives in footie pjs, but Lola still insists on wearing a dress.

At least one of us knows how to be classy.

Our routine this week has consisted of lighting the fireplace, scarfing down peppermint stick ice cream, laying on the floor under the Christmas tree and whining to anyone who is willing to listen.

OK, that's been my routine.

Both of my kids are surprisingly chipper when sick, and not even the worst case of sniffles can slow Lola down.

She was particularly miffed about yesterday's cancellation of our daily "school" time, and I didn't dare declare another teacher strike today for fear she might start coloring on the walls in protest.

I pulled myself off the floor, walked seven steps to the kitchen for the construction paper and the candy cane tootsie pops (best Christmas candy ever) and helped Lola make and decorate her own paper tree.

The girl may hate Santa ("Guys, he's not coming to our house, right? Right???"), but she sure loves trees.

I tried to make our activity pseudo-educational by asking her what color and shape she wanted her ornaments to be.

She specifically requested a pink kite, so in case you didn't know, the kite is now an official shape.

Move over, diamond.

When I say Lola loves Christmas trees, what I really mean is that she adores them.

Ever since the trees went up on Saturday, she has spent every waking hour moving ornaments around, adjusting lights and keeping them entertained with her very best stories.

Tonight we curled up in front of the fire -- tissue boxes in hand -- and watched the claymation version of "Rudolph," a film Lola found fascinating, yet slightly disturbing (but really, who doesn't?).

Kids bring the magic back to Christmastime.

And who doesn't need a little magic in their life?

Feasting with friends...

2011-11-27T16:18:00.001-08:00

Saturday brought our third annual Friends' Thanksgiving with the Wheatleys and the Maudsleys.

This has become one of my favorite traditions in our married life, and it's amazing to see how much our families have changed and grown since our first dinner two years ago.

This year, the Maudsleys were our gracious hosts.

AJ makes a mean turkey, and Cindy's chocolate pudding pie is the stuff dreams are made of.

Camille rocked the rolls and mashed potatoes.

I took a stab at the stuffing and green bean casserole (and felt like a freakin' Food Network chef while cooking in my mother-in-law's beautiful new kitchen).

We all ate our body weight in grub.

Totally worth my new and improved muffin top.

While the guys watched YouTube videos, the girls chatted about girly stuff and the kids pulled out every single toy in the apartment.

My heart pretty much melted as I watched Lola and Lyla play together.

When they weren't fighting over the same toy (oh, two-year-olds), they got lost in their own little conversations.

They dressed each other up.

They rocked their dolls.

They giggled to the point of happy tears.

It was so, so sweet.

I love these babies.

I'm incredibly grateful for this group of friends.

We've been through a lot together -- trips, babies, new jobs, moves -- and to us, they are and always will be family.

Why, thanks: the Thanksgiving edition...

2011-11-27T15:09:00.001-08:00

We spent this Thanksgiving with Reece's family in Bountiful.

The food was excellent, as always, and we loved spending time with the Ivins/Banks side.

Lola passed on turkey and opted for pickles, Little Smokeys and gummy bears instead.

Whatever makes a girl happy, right?

I had to work that evening, but was happy to see some good friends in the newsroom.

The highlight of the night came when Deanie tried to preheat the Studio 5 oven to bake some Lion House rolls, only to discover a box of leftover pizza had been left inside -- setting off the fire alarm in the middle of the 6:30 show.

Ah, holiday memories.

We have so much to be thankful for.

Emergency...

2011-11-26T23:50:00.001-08:00

Tonight we experienced one of those horrible, yet seemingly inevitable parental milestones that are far from awesome.

Lola had to take a trip to the emergency room.

Thankfully, it wasn't anything too serious.

She loves being "swinged" around by her arms, and this time the swinging popped her little elbow out of its socket.

I rocked my sobbing girl and tried very, very hard not to sob uncontrollably myself, and was somewhat successful until she began to stroke my cheek and asked me to kiss it better.

The fact that she refused to let me put her down and insisted on being with mama only solidified my suspicion that she was in very real pain.

I'm pretty sure the absolute most difficult thing about being a parent is watching your kid suffer and being completely unable to do anything about it.

That kind of helplessness knocks the wind out of you and makes it very difficult to breathe, let alone think rationally.

My girl returned from the ER triumphant, toting a new teddy bear, three stickers and a big smile.
Her exact words were, "Mommy, the doctor took my elbow off and now it's all better."

She charmed the nurses, scowled at the doctor and consumed about six Dum Dums in the process.

Tonight, I'm extremely grateful for priesthood blessings, good doctors and the health and vitality of my children.

I'm hoping my girl will let me hold her for a little while longer when she wakes up.

Why, thanks: twenty two...

2011-11-23T22:03:00.001-08:00

Today I'm thankful for the gorgeous weather that made my outdoor run so pleasant.

I'm thankful that I was able to finish said run, especially considering the amount of calories I intend to willingly and happily consume tomorrow.

Today I'm thankful for a patient husband who puts up with my occasional exhaustion-induced breakdowns with love, humor and kindness.

Today I'm grateful for our impromptu family outing.

We scoped out the toy aisle at Costco,

gobbled pizza and lasagna at Terra Mia,

rode the carousel, shared an ice cream cone and goofed around in the photo booth at Provo Beach Resort,

and got lost in the glory of Blickenstaff's toy store.

Sometimes it's so easy to get lost in the unimportant stuff, to forget what is most precious.

Today, I'm so very grateful for my people -- the two boys and one girl I simply could not live without.

Why, thanks: twenty one...

2011-11-23T21:57:00.001-08:00

We've had a rough couple of days at our house.

And by we, I mean me.

So today I'm extremely grateful that when my little girl walked into the living room and found me in tears, she grabbed my cheeks, looked me straight in the eye and said, "Oh sweetie, it's alright."

What would I do without my Lola girl?

Why, thanks: twenty...

2011-11-21T22:01:00.001-08:00

Today I'm thankful for Sponge Bob macaroni and cheese, stickers, construction paper, gluesticks, crayons and a girl who could care less about weather-appropriate wardrobe choices.

Combine each of these things into one afternoon, and you've got a fantastic way to beat the inevitable winter blues.

I'm also thankful that Lola thinks Jello topped with whipped cream is "the best EVER!"

And I'm always, always thankful for my little guy's rolls.

Who needs clothes anyway?

Why, thanks: nineteen...

2011-11-21T21:55:00.001-08:00

I'm grateful for firsts.

Saturday, with a little help from Pop Pop, Lola built her first snowman.

She threw her first snowball.

She tasted her first sip of hot chocolate.

I guess there really are some good things about winter here.

I'm also grateful that Reece and James enjoyed some guy time reading People magazine on their tummies.

Nothing more manly, if you ask me.

For the love of Cindy...

2011-11-21T21:17:00.001-08:00

This weekend I put together a little brunch celebration in honor of my dear friend Cindy and her new baby girl, who is expected to make her grand debut in January.

I cannot wait to hold and smooch this sweet little lady, and James will be thrilled to have another Maudsley woman in his life, seeing as how he is already infatuated with Cindy and Lyla.

Squatters did the cooking for me, since I am certain I could never make a veggie burger that good on my own.

I attempted some strawberry lemonade cupcakes -- made with love at one in the morning.

After several failed (and I mean FAILED) decorating attempts, Reece and I decided we would not be opening a bakery anytime soon.

At least they tasted good...

It was so lovely to spend the morning chatting and eating and celebrating one of my very favorite mamas.

I will forever be grateful for Cindy and the ways she's blessed my life.

She helped me learn how to be a mother, and has been there for me through all the ups and downs of the last two years.

Friends like Cindy certainly don't come along very often, and you can bet I'm going to make sure she's stuck with me forever.

Add Cosmo and Santa to the list...

2011-11-19T20:35:00.001-08:00

Last night we met up with some friends for the Riverwoods tree lighting celebration.

The event boasted free carriage rides, hot apple cider, cookies, live music, and of course, Santa.

Is it just me, or are the Christmas celebrations kicking off earlier and earlier each year?

Poor Thanksgiving.

Anyway, we made it just in time for the big light reveal, which was actually pretty impressive.

There were a lot of things Lola loved about the night.

01. Hanging out with Livy and Adam (and Sawyer, who had to go home early)

02. The glow necklace that I almost stole from her, because I really, really like glow necklaces too.

03. The creepy Winnie the Pooh mask provided by Radio Disney

Unfortunately, there were several things -- or rather, characters -- that struck terror into her very soul.

01. Cosmo the Cougar. This mascot complex is growing stronger by the day.
"NO, NO MEAN KITTY!"

Let it be know that I feel really guilty about laughing...

02. Santa. I really can't say I blame her on this one though...

Reece couldn't have pulled himself from her death grip if he tried.

James, on the other hand, was happy for the cushy, warm seat.

It was definitely an upgrade from the umbrella stroller.

After Santa, the kids decided they'd had enough holiday cheer.

We invaded Bajios, ate pellet ice and discussed important things like sociopaths and breastfeeding.

Just a typical Ivins/Wiseman evening.

And thus the holiday madness begins...

Why, thanks: eighteen...

2011-11-18T22:19:00.001-08:00

Today I'm thankful for the way pumpkin bread makes the house smell delicious hours after it comes out of the oven.

Today I'm grateful for my Lola's smile.

Today I'm thankful for the giant snowflakes that are falling from the sky, and for the endless entertainment they provided my daughter and her Pop Pop.

Today I'm grateful the grandparents, Reece, Lola and I got to witness James roll to his tummy, back to his back, and back onto his tummy again.

You'd have thought it was the Superbowl, the way we cheered.

Life is good.

Why, thanks: seventeen...

2011-11-17T22:30:00.001-08:00

Two in one day!

Phew.

Today I'm thankful for the Carpenter girls for being willing (and crazy) enough to join us on a morning trek to the new H&M at Fashion Place.

As expected, it was a madhouse, but I walked away with a bag that was probably a bit too heavy for my own good.

I'm thankful that my sister-in-law had the same crazy idea, and that because of our chance meeting I got to chat with her and see my adorable nephew for a few minutes.

I'm thankful that Reilly and I were perfectly in sync about the lunch menu for the afternoon: waffle fries, chicken nuggets, corn dogs, orange chicken, ice cream cones and sees chocolate.

Geez, my pants feel tighter with each word I type.

I'm thankful for the car strollers in the food court that kept the girls entertained so we could gab (and eat their food).

I'm thankful for a mother-in-law who is always willing to let us stop by (and nap), and who is kind enough to let me talk her ear off for hours.

She's a good woman, that Nana Cyndi.

I'm thankful that we got to attend our little friend Wyatt's third birthday party, and that Lola forgave me for not being able to hide my amusement when a guy dressed as a giant kangaroo scared the daylights out of her.
We don't do mascots around here.

I'm also thankful that my baby girl likes to lick the cupcake clean of its frosting.
Because it's a well-known fact that the frosting is the very best part.

Why, thanks: sixteen...

2011-11-17T22:25:00.001-08:00

Today I'm thankful for the gigantic box of awesome (and delicious) nerd cookies sent to Reece from his future employer.

Computers... cell phones... contraction monitors (well, that's what they look like to me)...

They sure know how to win over this family.

Why, thanks: fifteen...

2011-11-16T20:53:00.001-08:00

Today I'm thankful for the posh changing station/nursing room at Nordstrom for providing me a sanctuary when my son had an apocalyptic blowout the minute we walked into the mall.

I'm thankful that James smiled instead of screamed as I gave him (and his entire outfit) a wipe-bath in an attempt to weather the storm.

I'm also thankful that I was able to laugh instead of cry, because usually in situations such as this, I just cry.

Today I'm thankful for mint chocolate chip ice cream.

I'm thankful that my sweet girl ate her entire Chik-Fil-A kids meal without a fight and willingly shared her ice dream cone with me.

I'm thankful for the children's book section at Costco -- it is certainly making my Christmas shopping a lot easier.

Today I'm grateful that Lola calls her Mike Wazowski doll "Mowsky"

Today I'm thankful to have a dad who can rock my son to sleep in less than two minutes.

I'm thankful for a mom who is happy to humor my daughter for hours on end, even after a long day at work.

Today, and every day, I'm thankful for my little chicks.

Good heavens, they make me smile.

Why, thanks, Bill Gates...

2011-11-15T15:19:00.001-08:00

Today I am incredibly grateful for this company:

And for this city:

That's right, the Ivins family will be moving to the land of Space Needles, Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks movies, Grey's Anatomy and stinky fish markets come May.

Reece has accepted a summer internship with Microsoft, and we couldn't be more grateful for this fantastic opportunity.

I'm so proud of the Mr. for all his hard work.

And quite frankly, it doesn't hurt to have so much family just three hours away in Portland.

So get planning your visits!

We'll have an extra room with your name on it...

Why, thanks: fourteen...

2011-11-14T21:47:00.001-08:00

Today I'm thankful for the following conversation:

Lola: "Mom, James has strawberry eyes."

Me: "Really? Where did you get that?"

Lola: "Um, YO-ya. Duh."

Today I'm thankful for the newly-released Hunger Games trailer -- March can't come soon enough!

Today I'm thankful for the Kneaders dessert run that got me out of the house for the one and only time in 24 hours.

I'm thankful for the elliptical and treadmill upstairs that help me feel less guilty about all the treats I've been devouring lately.

Today I'm grateful that Lola insisted Reece wear a "pwetty dress" if he was going to twirl with her, and I'm even more grateful for the solution he came up with...

Five months: the James edition...

2011-11-14T21:13:00.001-08:00

I am so hopelessly in love with this little person.

At five months, Mr. James never stops moving.

Really.

He even moves in his sleep.

He rolls and scoots and wiggles constantly -- thus making it completely impossible for me to leave him unattended on any surface with an edge.

Let's just pretend he hasn't rolled off the couch twice, OK?

Thanks.

I swear the parenting skills get sketchier and sketchier with each child.

At five months, James is still a social butterfly (or rather the masculine equivalent of the butterfly -- the moth?).

He chats and coos and squeals and laughs.
He still saves his biggest smiles and heartiest guffaws for his sister.

In fact, the five-month photo shoot was complicated by the fact that Lola was in the room, adding props and adjusting wardrobe.

Because when Lola is in the room, that's where James' attention goes.

At five months, the boy is quite the fan of baby oatmeal mixed with breast milk.

But he likes whipped cream, ice cream, key lime pie and chocolate frosting even better, thanks to Nana Thaylene...

What can I say?

My tank loves to eat.

Takes after his mama that way.

At five months, James is still the sweetest, happiest, friendliest and most laid-back baby I've ever encountered.

He does, however, make himself heard when the attention level is insufficient.

And believe me, it's hard to ignore his little fake cough or pathetic yell.

And the bottom lip quiver is like an arrow through my heart.

I only hope to someday capture it on camera...

At five months, I finally feel like I've got this mom-of-two business down.

Well, most days anyway.

We've got a routine, and though it may often involve pajamas and candy, it works for us.

And I absolutely love it.
This thing called motherhood.

Happy five months baby boy!

Thank you for making my life such a good one.

Why, thanks: thirteen...

2011-11-14T11:41:00.001-08:00

(From Sunday)

Today I'm thankful for the three hour nap James and I enjoyed, especially since we all woke up feeling so yucky.

I'm thankful for oversized sweatshirts and leggings.

I'm thankful for snickerdoodles.

I'm thankful for snuggle time in Nana's bed.

I'm thankful for my endlessly patient mother, who willingly complies to my very bossy daughter's demands.

"Tea party Nana!"

"Get my princess blanket nana!"

"Oranges, Nana!"

"I want your cookie, Nana!"

Naughty frog.

Why, thanks: twelve...

2011-11-13T14:23:00.001-08:00

(From Saturday)

Today I'm thankful for an unexpected and absolutely lovely visit from some of our closest SLC friends.

I'm grateful for the many travels, adventures and experiences we've had together, and that we still manage to see each other every once in awhile -- even though it's not nearly enough.

Today I'm grateful for my husband and his two buddies who kept (5!) babies fed, diapered and entertained for a few hours so that the mamas could enjoy a night off together.

I'm grateful for Erica and Tabby, who've made this grad school experience infinitely more bearable.

I'm grateful for the little booth at the back of Paradise Bakery where we chatted and laughed until we could no longer ignore the desperate texts from the frazzled daddies.

I'm grateful for McDonalds for providing us with our shakes and sundaes -- the perfect (and cheap) end to a fantastic night.

Today I'm grateful that my children have such an involved father who loves them (and me) in a way no one else in the world could.

Why, thanks: eleven...

2011-11-12T23:08:00.001-08:00

Today, I'm grateful that my children get to spend so much time with their grandparents and aunts and uncles and cousin (soon to be plural).

I'm grateful for in-laws who are so good to us.

And I'm so very grateful to have my husband home again.

Why, thanks: ten...

2011-11-12T22:31:00.001-08:00

Yesterday afternoon, James partied hard with Nana and Pop Pop Ivins while Lola and I enjoyed a little mama/daughter date at EnergySolutions Arena downtown with a few of our good friends.

Oh how I love spending time with my girl, who, by the way, really has become a little girl.

I'm not sure there's any toddler left in there.

When did that happen?

I'm thankful that Disney pays a bunch of ice skaters to dress up in crazy, elaborate costumes and perform numbers from some of its most prized animated films, because goodness gracious, my daughter was in heaven.

I'm also incredibly thankful for the princess crown I found while rifling through the dollar section of Target.

Oh, and while we're at it, I'm eternally thankful for that blessed store.

I'm thankful that Lola is easily distracted -- thus making it possible to avoid a meltdown when I had to say no to the $16 Rapunzel mug she so desperately pined after.

"Please mom? Yoya want one!"

Sorry Lola. It's that or your college education.

But to be honest, I kind of wanted one too.

I'm thankful for the inevitable outtakes that occur when attempting to get three kids under the age of three to smile for a photo.

Kind of adorable.

Very thankful for a magical night with my favorite little lady.

And yes, I did just use the term "magical."

Sometimes I embarrass myself.

Why, thanks: nine...

2011-11-10T20:32:00.001-08:00

Today I'm grateful for Costco samples and the lovely lunch they provided for Lola and I.

Today I'm grateful for Gilmore Girls.

Today I'm grateful that Lola blessed all her books in her bedtime prayers.

Today I'm grateful that both my babies napped at the same time so I could sneak a workout in.

Today I'm so, so grateful for my little life, quiet as it may be these days.

Why, thanks: eight...

2011-11-09T21:18:00.000-08:00

Today I'm thankful for the soon-to-be empty box of oranges that sits in my kitchen -- somehow the fruit makes me forget how cold it is outside.

Today I'm thankful for my mom's company and the vanilla vanilla (yes, double vanilla) cake we shared after dinner.

Today I'm thankful that I don't have to catch a 6 a.m. flight to NYC like my husband must do (even though I wish I was going with him).

I'm also thankful that he's willing to do such crazy things for our little family.

Today I'm thankful that I get the whole bed to myself for the next few nights so I can steal Reece's pillow, sprawl diagonally and not feel bad about it.

Today I'm thankful that nursing is going so well the second time around, but fearful -- nay, terrified -- that James will be cutting a tooth any day now.