The Atrium

These are the “before” pictures of our atrium. This weird little outside room seems to be a common thing in a neighborhood like this where the houses are five feet apart. This way we can have some big windows and a slider that let in some light, but don’t let in the neighbors. The red rock was provided, and I found the stepping stones in the back yard. I’ve got one plant and two pots, now what? I’m especially curious what my landscaper brother thinks would work well here. I need plants that are low maintenance, work well in pots and don’t need a lot of light. What else should there be? Seating, water feature? What are your ideas? I’ve got a low budget for this, so be creative!

Free and Clear

Sabrina has had a plugged tear duct in her left eye since birth. All of the kids had one, but hers seemed to be taking forever to clear up. I usually have to wash her eye with warm water several times a day to keep it from getting gross and irritating her skin, and when I would go out with her, someone would usually ask if she had an eye infection. I’m not sure if they were concerned about her passing it on to their kids, or if they thought I was just a clueless mom. But, now I won’t have to explain it any more. Sabrina is free of her burdensome eye! Just over a week ago, I noticed that I hadn’t had to wash her eye that day, and then I thought and couldn’t remember doing it the day before either. And now it’s official. She hasn’t had a gooey eye for a week solid. It may seem silly, but it is pretty exciting news to me and Sabrina!

“Boyz in Motion” Take Preparedness Seriously

Ok mom, this one’s for you. Hunter and Emma were watching That’s So Raven this morning, and it was an episode about preparedness. This video was part of the show. Rob and I think this would be a classy thing to play before you make a pitch 😉 It’s pretty funny, hope you appreciate it too.

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1g0aWh9OzY

Welcome to our Home

We have now been in our newest home for a week and a half. I have a few of the pictures I took for our move-in inspection in the gallery. I didn’t post them all because I was focusing mainly on the flaws so we don’t get dinged when we move out. The move went fairly smoothly and everything’s here. Now is the long process of unpacking and finding places for things. We have finished the kitchen, living room and bedrooms, and that’s actually pretty good for now! I have met one of our neighbors, but it seems most of the kids on the street are middle school age and up.

We went to the ward for the first time yesterday and everyone was very friendly and nice. I’m sure we will find our place soon. There seem to be a lot of social activities so we should meet people quickly. Hunter was welcomed with smiles by the only other boy in his primary class, and by the way he is in Senior Primary now. When did he get so big? Hunter is especially excited about the new ward because the Bishop gives a giant candy bar to anyone that memorizes all of the Articles of Faith. Emma said she liked her teachers, and made friends with a girl that seems to like jewelry as much as she does. Hannah did very well in the nursery class. She said they sang, “Daddy Come Home” and they also did a full size tracing of her that she brought home. They must have had a lesson on their bodies or something. It is great to have an instant family in church wherever we go, although I have to admit we are all a bit sick of having to make new friends again. I just keep reminding myself that it will just get better.

Speaking of making new friends, Hunter and Emma started at their new school today (the mascot is the dolphin). It was so frustrating that we had to do everything over again as far as paperwork goes, and we only moved 60 miles away! You would think it could be better connected throughout the state. But, they’re in now and I’m nervous for how their first day will go. We’ll let you know.

Christmas Exchange from Holly

Thanks so much for the great Christmas gifts Auntie Holly! All of the kids got a book and a toy, Rob got a Police Squad DVD, and Amy got an Avonlea DVD. We already watched most of the Police Squad shows and they were hilarious!

I really like the idea of encouraging reading too. Good thinking! We saved the Italian treats for New Years since that is when Rob said they are traditionally eaten. We loved it- Thanks again!!

Ta Da! We found a new Fridge

We bought a new fridge yesterday! It’s like this one only all white on the outside. It was a pretty exhausting process trying to pick one out with all of the kids there. We had the Runner (I can’t count how many times I said, “Where’s Hannah?”)- Hannah; the Commentator (“I’m thirsty, tired, bored” etc…)- Hunter; the Decision Queen (“Are we going to get this one Mom?”)-Emma; and the Audience (leave me in my seat where I can see people)- Sabrina.

It should be a good one. We went to the Sears Outlet store and found one with several dings in the bottom door. We decided that the first wrestling match will leave the same result, and it saves us $1,000.00! Yes, in spite of all advice against the bottom freezer, we still got one. I do appreciate your comments though. I guess we can’t say that we weren’t warned. But we sided with Pappy on this one. We figure it will be the kids getting into something either way, so why not save our backs? The best part is the huge savings we got for a cosmetic defect. It’s a big guy, and will dominate our little kitchen, but hopefully we’ll have it for a long time. So, come on over Nana and try to fill up this baby! I dare you.