tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-269825152012-01-04T06:06:23.093-08:00just longing to be lovely...Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.comBlogger4861100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-88942803946981026192011-12-29T22:34:00.000-08:002011-12-29T22:34:17.105-08:00

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-61275490254755961802011-12-21T09:04:00.001-08:002011-12-21T09:04:55.466-08:00

This what parker does during Christmas break: experiments. Vinegar, flour, baking soda, salt, apple juice, sugar. Nothing makes him happier than playing scientist or farkle these days. He just told me he wants to be an archaeologist. I hope that doesn't mean he'll move far away from home. Never:)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-44214701324417060632011-11-17T11:57:00.001-08:002011-11-17T13:26:30.217-08:00

I woke up knowing this was going to be a hard day. It was one of those times that I woke up tired... without even living yet. Ugh. Not good. Not possible with three young ones. And apparently, Hollyn is feeling the same way. I know this because she is throwing everything she gets her hands on and hitting...oh, the hitting. I would be doing the same thing if no one was watching. But we dance.

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-84393704795784041692011-11-02T13:31:00.000-07:002011-11-02T13:43:45.199-07:00

I think I have an obsessive personality. I mean, when I'm into something...I usually just can't help myself. I am bursting to tell someone some of my current loves. And sadly, they're probably not surprising to anyone. I don't really keep my mouth shut. Seriously. I'm pathetic. I feel so passionate about a cancelled tv show. I don't know if I'll ever be over it. 1. Friday Night Lights. I

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-32303014076620611572011-10-14T13:20:00.001-07:002011-10-14T13:34:14.174-07:00

Griff and I got to go on a school field trip together...without any siblings!! For a middle child, this is a huge deal! I love spending time with my kids one on one. It was the pumpkin patch this time and we had so much fun on the hay ride, in the maze, petting the animals, picking apples & pumpkins....and eating pumpkin doughnuts! Thank you, Grandma Dee, for taking good care of Hollyn while

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-84097072343119492412011-09-19T09:18:00.001-07:002011-09-19T09:18:35.772-07:00

Parker just lost is third tooth... but this is, by far, the most exciting and noticeable! I hope that his new tooth is huge because that gap is ginormous! He is thuper cute:)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-66419805238817086762011-09-07T20:54:00.000-07:002011-09-07T20:54:56.397-07:00

This is the week we say goodbye to summer...we are back to school. Oh, summer has been good. I think this has been my favorite summer with the kiddos yet! And the strange thing is that we actually did LESS than in past years. We stayed home so much more. I love being home...and I hope that our kids learn to love home just as much. Summer has consisted of : swimming lessons. neighbor buddies.

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-45983580282584403612011-09-06T16:19:00.000-07:002011-09-06T16:19:01.759-07:00

one last hug goodbye my big boy griffin getting in on the action our first the whole family he let me hold his hand:) in front of the classroomOur first grader is home from his long day! The day was a success and I'm excited to hear more...but trying not to be pushy. I can be pushy sometimes. I just want to know every. single. detail. Can you relate?p.s. i will post a few

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-25305890961549927742011-09-05T10:05:00.000-07:002011-09-05T10:05:06.815-07:00

2 year old Parker I couldn't figure out why I've been such a space cadet. I mean, I often find myself in AmyLand...but this is even more than normal. I told Joel that I couldn't figure it out. An example of my spaciness: I left a full cart of groceries in the Safeway parking lot and didn't figure out that they were missing for close to an hour. Embarrassing. Ridiculous. What is UP?? I'm so

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-73418046211911382892011-07-25T09:26:00.000-07:002011-07-25T09:40:18.540-07:00

My thoughts on being "done" having children.I am giving myself 5 minutes to write about this subject. Partly because it is complicated and I think I could just confuse myself if I write too long.Since Hollyn was born, we've been asked numerous times if we are done having children. Totally valid question. But the question itself is kind of too much for me. Maybe it is the wrong question? I get it,

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-10706833313241696972011-06-25T20:50:00.000-07:002011-06-25T21:07:26.174-07:00

I've been trying to think of a good reason why I haven't written on here lately. And when I say "lately", I mean the last few years! I say it is a time thing, but lots of people are busy. We're all busy. But blogging is something I really love to do. Why don't I make time for it? I found my answer!Tonight I am alone. Alone. Aaaaaahhh!!! The kids were in bed by about 7:30 and Joel is out spending

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-10061755651219640922011-06-12T15:11:00.000-07:002011-06-12T15:39:52.736-07:00

I recently experienced a girls weekend that will go down in history as...the best. Refreshing, for sure! It is a woven web of relationships that is beautiful, and sort of funny too. Well, funny if you think of dear friendships being formed over the internet and then actually meeting in real life and loving each other more than expected...and coming to find out that we have so many similarities...

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-5292136431144845412011-05-31T12:09:00.001-07:002011-05-31T12:17:31.546-07:00

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-33257010621554449712011-05-31T08:08:00.001-07:002011-05-31T08:27:55.038-07:00

I have SO much that I would like to share on here, including:-my 30th birthday celebrations/reflections-our amazing trip to San Diego-the most fabulous girls weekend ever!-And some more that I keep forgetting...But, I'll start with just a bit of our San Diego trip. I couldn't think of a better way to spend my birthday than with my little family and my parents in San Diego. It was absolutely

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-62372065939021241102011-05-18T22:54:00.001-07:002011-05-18T22:56:39.191-07:00

I'm going to say this once...and I might be in trouble for saying it at all. Someone I love so much has a blog. She's quietly awesome. You'll see...

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-85494748419127821732011-05-16T19:59:00.000-07:002011-05-16T21:16:01.167-07:00

Sometimes I wonder if I am just here in the blog world to make all of you feel really good about yourself. Well, here I am again to fill your tank of confidence:) Really, who gave me permission to be responsible for three children? I clearly don't have it all together. I hope you can relate. And if you can't, keep your mouth shut. Thanks.So I had a remarkable trip to Costco the other day. I don't

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-36501850042514262972011-05-10T14:12:00.000-07:002011-05-10T14:37:42.101-07:00

Despite my dread, Hollyn Joy's birthday came and went...and we all survived! I feel much better now that it is over, to be honest! But I think that Hollyn is a little bummed that it is all over--she LOVED her birthday SO MUCH! I really believe she just knew it was her special day/week. Is that a good thing? She just likes the spotlight a whole bunch. I wonder what that means for our future...My

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-72464347868317396592011-04-26T08:57:00.000-07:002011-04-26T09:04:37.425-07:00

hollyn and mooma last week @ Parker's birthdayDenial. I'm pretty much denying the fact that hollyn will be one sometime next week. Seriously, I haven't even looked at the calendar to see what day May 3rd falls on. Third baby. Last one. It is so different. I looked forward to first birthdays for the boys. I LOVE one. I like toddlers more than babies, but I still can't bring myself to plan a party.

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-63663666102740603402011-04-24T09:00:00.001-07:002011-04-24T09:00:38.305-07:00

I went with some dear friend to get the tattoos we've always wanted. So fun! I love it!Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.8

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-53232223529003927352011-04-17T12:32:00.000-07:002011-04-17T13:06:21.640-07:00

Our firstborn is six today! The way I feel about our firstborn is complicated. I love him more than I could ever express and I don't even want to try to describe how I feel about our first baby because it sounds strange when I say it out loud. Maybe I'll try. I do not have a favorite child whatsoever. But I do have to say that there is something unique about your first child. I dreamed of him for

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-10535048393874102252011-03-03T13:33:00.000-08:002011-03-03T14:09:37.533-08:00

How many times have i started a blog post like this? Here it goes again...So, I was cleaning my floors (again)....and a thought came to me. A question that I think God put on my heart. What if no one ever thought of me as successful again? What if no one noticed me or thought I was important. Ever. No one. Except God. What would that feel like? Would that be enough? Would it change the way I make

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-59304859155198023142011-03-02T06:59:00.001-08:002011-03-02T06:59:47.869-08:00

Our little guy has had quite the week! 1. He was so, so sick. Honestly, over never seen any of my kids that sick for that long. Vomiting & diarrhea for 5 days straight! He couldn't even keep down a 1/2 teaspoon of medicine. So sad. 2. On a brighter note, he lost his first tooth!! He was so excited! And for the record, the Tooth Fairy showed up. She left some $$ & a poem...such a sweet

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-33158741136452570982011-02-23T16:27:00.000-08:002011-02-23T16:36:26.170-08:00

I'm trying my very hardest to resist the longing for spring. We really have a good amount of winter weather left...so I'm choosing to enjoy it. Today. Griffin is the only one who got to enjoy the new snowfall outdoors today. He made snow castles. Sweet boy. The rest of us made do with the cozy fire.This bottom picture of the cabins was taken this past weekend at Red Mountain. A lovely weekend

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-30095481504140807772011-02-22T12:43:00.001-08:002011-02-22T12:43:35.443-08:00

So full of joy! So full of herself :) She's mobile and curious. No longer "dolphin crawling", but doing the real thing these days. Trying to pull herself up on everything. She thinks she's big enough to practice stairs--she isn't:) So vocal!! She has certainly perfected the art of making herself known. When the boys irritate her, she screeches and does this strange cough thingy. But most

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-69757916778612918332011-02-18T10:07:00.001-08:002011-02-18T10:07:47.950-08:00

We're on the road...all packed in here cozy and snug. We're all doing our own thing but all together. Parker is writing sentences. Griffin is playing his leapster. Hollyn is sleeping. Joel is listening to his music. And I am blogging ...and listening to my book club book...and looking outside at the beautiful mountains. We are heading up north to Canada for a weekend with friends and we happen

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-27836379589155745822011-01-31T21:08:00.001-08:002011-01-31T21:08:53.251-08:00

I love coffee. I love coffee cups. Really really a whole bunch. Just a few of my favorites are in this picture ... mixed in with the standard mugs from our wedding:) I remember everyone who has contributed to my overflowing cupboard...love to you!!Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-21194639210795101332011-01-25T09:16:00.001-08:002011-01-25T09:16:52.015-08:00

I just love my new curtains in our living room! The colors....oh, the colors!! As my mom said, nothing like a little redecorating to liven up the end of January. Hope you get to surround yourself with your favorite colors today...Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-49183545804170342022011-01-17T14:04:00.000-08:002011-01-17T14:19:05.642-08:00

Just a normal day around here. Hollyn is learning to sweep. Plenty of Little People are sleeping soundly in Noah's Ark. Griffin is always so calm and passive. We're feeding ourselves nutritious food. And we play nice, orderly games as a family....no one ever fights....Yep, just normal ;)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-32503937778618863902011-01-13T13:23:00.000-08:002011-01-13T13:52:50.932-08:00

I can't seem to complete a full sentence, but I sure can communicate in bullet points! Must be something I retained from my college days:)Life keeps rolling along. Life is good. Life is messy. Life is hard. Life is fun. Life is mundane. Life is exceptional. Life is blessed, don't you think?Here are some random thoughts floating around in my head:I think I made decaf coffee this morning. Not a

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-76211928198185637422011-01-04T14:37:00.001-08:002011-01-04T14:48:45.206-08:00

I'm no creative genius...at all. But I did come up with one good idea in 2010. I love Christmas cards more than anything. I LOVE that most people send pictures these days. But then I have the dilemma of what to do with them after Christmas. I can't throw them away! So I just covered all of my 09 cards with contact paper, punched a hole in a corner & then used a binder ring to keep them all

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-74616923485181106672010-12-31T14:42:00.001-08:002010-12-31T14:42:40.193-08:00

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-76477667061846110042010-12-31T14:40:00.001-08:002010-12-31T14:40:12.492-08:00

Can't really capture this kind of beauty with a camera phone... but, my goodness!! Feeling pretty blessed to call this my home sweet home.Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-87752887485022467882010-12-17T10:40:00.000-08:002010-12-17T10:44:01.843-08:00

Despite the fact that my little sister is not featured, this is still one of my favorite family pictures! My parents were SO YOUNG...and so were me and my brother:)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-38164047730603741942010-12-14T13:43:00.000-08:002010-12-14T14:07:03.808-08:00

...What I know now:I would not have spaced our first two children so close in age. I realize 22 months isn't that close, but it is for me. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't trade it now...but I do feel like a little more time would have been good for everyone. I worried a bit that the bigger space between Griffin & Hollyn (3 years, 3 months) and the fact that they were different genders would create

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-45846997993151036022010-12-03T14:15:00.001-08:002010-12-03T14:15:08.514-08:00

She is 7 months today. Boo. I've never been one to dread my babies growing up. But this is different. Hollyn is the last hurrah for this clan and I feel like our days of sweet innocence are slipping away. Why is life flying by like this?! Maybe we're just having too much fun :) She is the happiest baby I've ever met. Ever. I love her to pieces and she has captured a part of my heart that I

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-9409990323263772002010-11-18T08:57:00.001-08:002010-11-18T08:57:19.681-08:00

We start them early:)Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-3469695305425420682010-11-17T13:15:00.000-08:002010-11-17T13:19:00.092-08:00

For those of you not on FB (gasp:), here are links to signing up to help the Dordals:Grocerieshttp://www.takethemameal.com/meals.php?t=FUKU1544Dinner:http://www.takethemameal.com/meals.php?t=LRAM3987And here is the link directly to the Facebook page for updates.http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ellas-Heart/168605369830086?v=wallAnother plug for Giving Anonymously:http://www.givinganon.org/give/step2_

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-43898126582954945912010-11-16T09:20:00.001-08:002010-11-16T09:20:24.300-08:00

Today, I am thankful for the things that aren't always obvious. Thank you, God, for.... *children that have colds and fevers. But healthy and strong and have access to medicine. *feeling such a burden on my heart to pray and hope for our friends. *feeling physically worn out at the end of each day...because I've been so busy doing what I love. *for the freezing wind because it reminds me

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-84649994996673471542010-11-15T14:51:00.000-08:002010-11-15T15:03:44.354-08:00

I have a fresh new look...don't you love it?! Me too:) Serious kudos to my amazing friend, Jenn @ Munchkin Land Designs.I love her designs...but I love HER even more. Check her out...:)Also...if you are a fellow blogger and you are interested in helping out Ella's Family...please use this widget on your sidebar. The link will take others directly to a site that is set up to receive donations on

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-49200627638186157562010-11-12T17:01:00.001-08:002010-11-14T20:23:31.863-08:00

This is how hollyn sits in her highchair. She is pretty short, I think. Which is so strange considering her last name;)But, man, this little girl can EAT! Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-72314231939258667232010-11-12T13:29:00.000-08:002010-11-14T20:23:41.752-08:00

Our dear friends have just met their baby...and Ella needs a miracle. Please Pray.

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-91068472305600096112010-11-05T13:52:00.000-07:002010-11-14T20:44:39.871-08:00

our family in pictures. courtesy of andi mae photography.

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-43504246661435987012010-11-03T18:30:00.000-07:002010-11-14T20:44:50.093-08:00

For the first time ever,we had family pictures taken! Here is one sample...such a tease, I know:) This is a favorite because it looks like our real life...except prettier! A good photographer can do that sort of thing. More to come...

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-56157840206467789782010-11-01T20:15:00.000-07:002010-11-14T20:44:59.089-08:00

I only have a minute to post this one picture from Halloween. More to come, I hope. My kids were super-darling. Of course:) But I was crazy busy and I didn't take pictures. This one comes courtesy of my sister. Here is our little cheerleader...We had a skeleton, batman, and....Hollyn had TWO costumes....:) She was a cheerleader for Team R****** for the Halloween party inside and she was the

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-58617648049463444722010-10-28T13:22:00.001-07:002010-11-14T20:45:09.753-08:00

I'm having so much fun feeding hollyn solids! Apparently, things have really changed in the world of babyfood in the last three years. Our pediatrician informed me that the new recommendation is that meat be baby's first food! And that just about all the rules are out regarding the order of introduction. I didn't start with meat first because it just sounded gross. Basically, Hollyn just eats

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-16541733590355593342010-10-25T14:42:00.001-07:002010-10-25T16:21:07.179-07:00

An account of my afternoon, starting @ 12:10:load kids in cardrop park off at schoolwatch out for poles!drive down to Griffin's schooltake him into the class/ chit chat with teacher/ drop off juice for harvest partyhaul hollyn back to cardrive to Parker's school/ sprint thru rain with infant carrier/check in at officeshoot, hollyn needs a nap!read with each of the 20 kids in Parker's class (love

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-40548128283138077532010-10-21T13:04:00.000-07:002010-10-21T13:04:38.588-07:00

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-24107333756208903402010-10-21T12:05:00.001-07:002010-10-21T12:05:36.563-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrTD3RnktrM&feature=youtube_gdata_playerPublished with Blogger-droid v1.5.1

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-48008066239723483782010-10-19T13:27:00.000-07:002010-10-19T13:58:01.851-07:00

I recently wrote on Facebook that I feel like I am part of a circus act. It is true. I really, really hope someone out their is enjoying the entertainment, because if I wasn't the one experiencing "the act", I would think it was hilarious. However. Ahem. Sometimes chaos gets old. Don't you think? This morning was going well. I got more sleep that usual and I was actually feeling as though the

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-34702239191588551402010-10-18T16:18:00.001-07:002010-10-18T19:02:09.420-07:00

I'm beginning to think we're really bad at determining when our kids are actually sick. In the spring, our kids had pinkeye and ended up exposing tons of kids because we had no idea! And just this week, Hollyn had roseola, and again, we had no idea! And that is just plain dumb, as Griffin has had it before and we know the symptoms! All that to say, BEWARE: we're likely spreading nasty germs

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-11714638214339993622010-10-15T13:25:00.000-07:002010-10-15T13:28:34.441-07:00

So, yeah...I dare you to try to tell me that this isn't the cutest ASB card ever??? Yes, my 3 year old has an ASB card:) And my 5 year old would also have one if I hadn't forgotten about HIS VERY FIRST PICTURE DAY!! But this one is so cute I almost forgot about that;)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-88916458924197301482010-10-14T16:41:00.001-07:002010-10-14T16:41:15.333-07:00

I love love love being a "school mom"! Love watching Parker interact with his friends, seeing him learn things every single day, forming a partnership with his teacher, interacting with other parents....so much to love! I also love hearing how the day went when I pick Parker up after school. I ask four specific questions: *Did you work hard? *Were you respectful? *Were you a good friend

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-27716185772987962082010-10-13T09:29:00.001-07:002010-10-13T09:29:16.386-07:00

I really have so much to be thankful for, but I have to admit that I'm feeling pretty tired and weary. I repeat: I have so many good things in my life. I am thankful. But I'm heavy-hearted. Some dear friends recently experienced a loss and I ache for them. This has overshadowed everything. And Joel dislocated his knee cap playing soccer. We have a mouse problem...and I happen to have a

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-64057180390744528522010-10-12T13:06:00.001-07:002010-10-12T13:06:37.965-07:00

I have this idea. you see, I am always struggling to find the perfect balance when it comes to the way I spend my time. blogging is a tough one because it is something I enjoy but don't feel I should spend much time on right now. so I'm going to allow myself 5 minutes a day. it wont be pretty...there may or may not be pictures and it will all be some from my phone. we're talking quantity not

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-10910889658488168602010-10-04T20:54:00.001-07:002010-10-04T20:54:10.594-07:00

Soooo, this post may be my lame attempt to keep up on here...but at least I have a picture! hollyn is 5 months old now and I'm remembering why I love this age SO MUCH! Here is why:: *belly laughs *serious personality glimpses...oh my! *mobility- rolling all over and even scooting! my guess, she'll crawl in the next six weeks. What?!??! *she loves toys. especially loud ones or ones that

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-71196207495486625872010-09-16T15:21:00.001-07:002010-09-16T15:21:28.339-07:00

This is what our kitchen looks like most afternoons now that griff and I have some alone time! Griffin LOVES to bake...and I LOVE to be with him! I'm liking this new schedule of ours:)Published with Blogger-droid v1.5.1

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-4387377638259270322010-09-09T13:42:00.000-07:002010-09-09T14:16:05.022-07:00

I wasn't too sad or emotional going into it...just excited for our boy to experience school! But now I have to say that this whole sending your first off the kindergarten was a bigger deal than I expected! It just feels monumental to already be hitting this major milestone with our first baby. It has made me pause and think about how fast life is flying by. Happy/sad/happy/sad...I mean, I

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-40562781927050315262010-09-08T11:36:00.001-07:002010-09-08T11:36:57.587-07:00

we have so many changes going on this week....we're trying to keep a few things normal. Like brotherhood....the good, bad, & ugly!Published with Blogger-droid v1.5.1

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-51231557205973760022010-08-26T12:55:00.001-07:002010-08-26T12:55:30.762-07:00

So proud of my boys! They just finished swimming lessons today and both improved so much. Since they are around water so much, water safety is super-important. I enjoyed watching their confidence grow and how they learned to respect their teacher -- so important! Published with Blogger-droid v1.5.1

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-4569914611690922782010-08-21T07:58:00.001-07:002010-08-21T07:58:11.308-07:00

Such a strange morning. But good. Boys are still sleeping. Girl is napping. Husband is in the shower. No yelling, whining...just classical music in the background. I'm the only one here! Yippee!! And I'm trying to speed-read my way through my bookclub book. Bit it is getting good and I don't want to go fast anymore. Oh, and the coffee. That's a given. My coffee is good company.

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-49085352854602590862010-08-09T12:39:00.001-07:002010-08-09T12:39:13.155-07:00

We had some last minute changes at the end of our recent camping trip and decided to book a night at the Westin in downtown Seattle. I love being spontaneous once in a while--as long as it is MY idea:) The boys were pumped to stay in a hotel and walk around the city with Uncle Paul and Auntie Vicky! Published with Blogger-droid v1.4.8

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-41867095152945995042010-08-04T12:34:00.001-07:002010-08-04T12:38:42.160-07:00

This is an all-time fave picture of my Grandma Marge with Parker. It reminds me of some really special times we spent with her and how much she adored Parker Baby. She passed away early this morning. We will always remember your spunk, Grandma, and how you loved your three boys more than anything else.

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-42779080824353499522010-08-02T22:44:00.000-07:002010-08-03T08:33:46.996-07:00

peek-a-boo :)I'm up late tonight after a run to target and the grocery store...And I ran across an old photo of Parker as an infant and then another. So then I had to find some of Griffin, the second two.I can't even believe how much Hollyn looks like them. Mostly Parker, I think. I see a bit of Griffin too, though. Now, here is the thing...people who knew Parker as an infant say that Hollyn

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-60546709149570420252010-08-02T15:17:00.000-07:002010-08-02T15:31:25.007-07:00

We've been able to spend a couple special days with Oma and Opa (my grandparents) lately. The kids LOVE these people...but who can blame them. I love that my kids are close with their GREAT-grandparents:)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-91704930030232868002010-07-30T12:42:00.001-07:002010-07-30T12:42:34.637-07:00

I took this picture a week or two agowith my phone. It was Hollyn's first swim at the pool--abd 1st time wearing her cute swimsuit:) She has loved the water from the very beginning...can't get enough of her bath time, the pool, and we'll try the lake soon! I love that all of our kids love water-- even if I don't;)Published with Blogger-droid v1.4.8

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-11961856711076590672010-07-28T13:31:00.001-07:002010-07-28T13:51:26.465-07:00

I really do not have time for this. If you saw my laundry room (or any room in this house), you would agree and send me to time out. But we went camping with our small group...a.k.a. coolest people in the world:), and it must be documented, or else.Like I said, I don't have time for this...but it was so.much.fun! Apparently, I only took pictures of kiddos. Well, at least I captured the

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-53661948106526132272010-07-21T22:00:00.000-07:002010-07-21T22:06:07.297-07:00

So, since I'm on a roll and all...thought I'd post a couple more pictures tonight before I hit the hay. We've been doing a lot of this. Well, they have...riding bikes and skate boards. Amy on a skateboard would be scary. And wait a minute...Griffin seems to be riding his old bike, without shoes, and without a helmet. Hmmm. Not good. But just so you know, he usually wears shoes AND a helmet and

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-34114431283883532392010-07-20T19:45:00.000-07:002010-07-20T19:59:46.645-07:00

I have an infant. That is my excuse. That is why I haven't blogged lately...Well, actually, it is more like I have three hooligans that don't let me go to the bathroom alone, much less spend ten minutes online! But here I am...all three in bed (thank you very much) and asleep (better be, or else) and I'm spending my ten minutos on amyohmy...poor, neglected blog.Summertime pictures of late...

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-4574839721767677402010-06-03T15:58:00.000-07:002010-06-03T16:05:38.029-07:00

For Hollyn's big one month birthday, she got to go to her pediatrician. Here she is showing off...:) I thought she was so chubby, but turns out she's actually really skinny and long. She just has lots of gas that gives her that beer gut! She is a healthy 8lbs 14 oz...30th% for weight and 85th% for height. And to compare, our friend Jonathon took this next picture of Hollyn one month ago today...

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-64074290784037879522010-05-31T15:48:00.001-07:002010-05-31T15:55:23.000-07:00

The boys really, really love Hollyn. Really. But Griffin just needs a little practice keeping his passion for life under control. We were having a few too many moments like this:He just really loves her or something. So we decided to get Griffin a baby of his own to practice using his gentler side. Her name is Paco. Yes, Paco. And so far she's been a great addition to the family.Oh, and we

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-64216489803033229152010-05-11T14:21:00.000-07:002010-05-11T14:26:28.430-07:00

Hollyn Joy Randall5.3.107lbs 12oz & 20.25"Bringing us so much joy!

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-51795082912980520992010-04-30T06:20:00.000-07:002010-04-30T07:15:38.215-07:00

My sister in law is magic. She's a photographer and she offered to do some maternity shots a while back. I was nervous. I get nervous about weird things. But good thing we're family because I was not an easy subject....I might have given her a bit of my attitude reminiscent of 15 years ago. Maybe;) But look what she did! She took a lot more, but here is a sampling and I love them! They were all

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-91768461578166606102010-04-10T08:39:00.000-07:002010-04-10T08:46:36.723-07:00

We had such a fantastic Easter. For the first time, I feel that both of my kids really "got it". I've never talked so much about the details of the crucifixion! I don't have pictures from the great Easter Sunday we spent with my family--complete with a scavenger hunt skillfully planned out by the grandparents! But the week leading up to Easter was special...we dyed eggs, read many resurrection

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-18788698383234050962010-03-22T10:21:00.000-07:002010-03-22T10:24:49.226-07:00

my belly. three years ago and now. the first one is when I was preggo with griff and the other is from last week. so fun! I love to compare like this...

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-24932067406944870952010-03-21T13:20:00.000-07:002010-03-21T14:10:25.964-07:00

For some reason, I always expected to be a mom of only boys. And there is just a tiny part of me that mourns losing this title:) Surprisingly, this is a very tiny part of m and will probably completely disappear in about six weeks. I cannot tell you how I just ache to hold this baby girl inside of me. Seriously ache. But this isn't about Her...it's about them. My Boys.These boys have changed my

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-31301382816440329912010-02-25T19:48:00.001-08:002010-02-25T20:04:05.515-08:00

I just had to add these videos of the boys skating....mostly for the family members who might also see the humor in these:)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-63583671535792402222010-02-25T08:13:00.000-08:002010-02-25T08:21:49.262-08:00

Despite the fact that I'm not really that much fun right now, we're trying to do fun things together as much as possible before I'm REALLY not much fun come May 4:) Yesterday, we went ice skating with Parker's class. I mean...the boys went ice skating...errr....Parker actually was the only one on skates. But you know what I mean. Griffin thought he was on skates and that he was the master because

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-65970167361789178242010-01-24T16:59:00.000-08:002010-01-24T17:18:10.754-08:00

I'm not sure how it all happened. My sister is married. She is a Mrs. now and lives in a far off land...so to speak. She is no longer this precious, little baby I met in 1987! But really, she's even better now!I was so excited on the day Kelsey was born. So nervous. I even lost my lunch over the whole ordeal. You see, I was six years old and was at the perfect age for getting a baby sister. What

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-26582181759315469352010-01-12T13:12:00.000-08:002010-01-12T13:17:37.456-08:00

I used to be so anti bare-belly pictures....but I don't care anymore. This is my third and I might as well see the reality of my growth. Maybe I should call this "my growing derriere" instead of "growing girth" :) Just kidding. It is all a part of the road to baby!

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-2181925286986542292009-12-18T10:21:00.000-08:002009-12-18T12:43:42.729-08:00

So I haven't actually made an announcement on here....but we got some BIG news last week!We're having a baby girl! And I'm such a nerd...I show her ultrasound picture to just about everyone. Speaking of the picture, you should take a look:) How cute is she?! I'm so excited!

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-9763109800793450622009-11-17T07:28:00.000-08:002009-11-17T07:32:58.953-08:00

I'm thinking that this third baby is already making itself known a little earlier than the others did:)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-71860859412915929032009-11-11T07:39:00.000-08:002009-11-11T07:52:35.637-08:00

The boys took flight yesterday. Parker has been begging to go fly kites...the prairie is perfect for it. I couldn't stop thinking about one of my all time favorite books, The Kite Runner. And so thankful that my boys are growing up in such different circumstances. Their smiles make me happy! And then there is that one of me...just for kicks. This is my blog, afterall :)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-65048554663423883582009-11-09T17:28:00.000-08:002009-11-09T17:33:49.184-08:00

What have we been doing lately? This and that :) Some things just need to be documented...like Parker's permanent outfit. The one on the top up there...he's been wearing it for four days straight and any other day he can find it. Sometimes I hide the whole ensemble. But I do make him dress in normal clothes when we leave the house...most of the time:)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-82189659672266448632009-10-28T13:10:00.000-07:002009-10-28T15:14:18.785-07:00

I really, really, really miss being on here. A lot. But here is the thing...totally lame excuse coming...my computer is in the office/dump room. It is THE room in the house where nothing is unpacked, it still needs to be painted...and even the computer is dusty and gross. Long story short: I just don't like to be in here because then I am reminded that I should be working on fixing this little

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-34078704713940060702009-10-06T15:01:00.000-07:002009-10-06T15:08:07.459-07:00

Just returned home from a weekend of celebration. The boys loved touring Grampa's old airplane. I remember doing the same thing when I was their age and thinking my dad was a total rock star! Love this shot!And then there is this one....what happened? I would LOVE to add some captions here, but they might not be appropriate--especially Griffin's:) But I love this picture of my boys!

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-37381256830704637642009-09-16T14:06:00.000-07:002009-09-16T14:10:43.138-07:00

This is not a real post. I am not going to say it...I literally have no time. But here is the rundown:1)Today is our last day in our Providence House.2)Parker started school for the first time yesterday.3)I'm pregnant. 7 Weeksish...yuck. But yay!4)We're moving into such an awesome house tomorrow on the prairie.5)I feel crazy. But Happy. And...loved.Seriously, that is all I've got. Love to all!

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-39510849656934170502009-09-01T17:57:00.000-07:002009-09-01T18:07:04.947-07:00

Hi. This has to be quick because I have a million other things to do.Today is our 8th wedding anniversary. It is so great...however, we have SO MUCH on our plates right now that we don't have a ton of time to celebrate!So much change going on right now. All good things...I'll have to write more about them all later, but we will be moving later this month to a great house! I can't wait to be in it

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-81964259396115242202009-08-17T12:06:00.000-07:002009-08-17T12:22:22.122-07:00

We've been having really great conversations with Parker lately. The way kids learn and absorb the world is mind-blowing sometimes. Kids are so much smarter than we give them credit! But a couple of really cute conversations stand out from the last week or so...Me driving and a bit distracted, Parker in the back set trying on a pretend wedding ring.P: Mom, when can I get married?ME: Well, hmmm...

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-55374645720325251162009-08-07T09:46:00.000-07:002009-08-07T09:56:56.139-07:00

I just started a new book that is making me oh.so.happy!! My Life In France by Julia Child. I looooove reading about food, culture, and travel. She describes food in a way that makes my mouth water for dishes I wouldn't normally touch with a ten-foot pole! I'm not far in the book yet, but so far...I smile every time I turn a page. :))

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-64414031242551521422009-08-05T11:57:00.000-07:002009-08-05T12:07:12.135-07:00

My poor, little blog...such neglect! I promise to get back to business soon. We've been busy trying to make the most of the summer...*Many a weekend spent at the lake.*Playing in the backyard.*Venturing out to parks.*Trips here and there.*Swimming at the (family) pool.*House hunting.*Spending waaaaaaay too much time thinking about house crap. Yep, crap. I'm sick of it. Ready to get back to real

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-62596381516479790472009-07-17T08:08:00.000-07:002009-07-17T08:14:59.205-07:00

I have my ten year high school reunion this weekend! I'm looking forward to seeing everybody and hearing how they've spent the last ten years. I am finding that I like people more once they are grown up:) We were asked to write a few paragraphs about our years since graduation...thought it would be fun to post here. I was really resistant to start it, but then once I got going, I actually enjoyed

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-62083846507177627552009-07-09T14:34:00.000-07:002009-07-09T14:43:11.371-07:00

Sometimes I wish I was Canadian so that I could say "out and about" like they do...But I guess I'll just stick to writing it out and thinking it in my head... :)Anyway...I took the boys out today to see some big, wild cats at Cat Tales and then took them up to Greenbluff to pick strawberries. The boys, of course, didn't put any in the box...they just stuffed them in their mouths and tried to

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-17124744227384497222009-07-07T19:52:00.000-07:002009-07-07T20:15:42.302-07:00

Life has gotten the better of me lately. It is so true...I really see it. I'm working on it:) My mom suggested I take notice of the little things that I do enjoy. It did help. Turns out...life really isn't that bad!

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-80702648589434897062009-06-21T09:53:00.000-07:002009-06-21T09:54:52.584-07:00

To the best daddy around...WE LOVE YOU!Parker & Griffin:)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-21315535063453947212009-06-11T09:03:00.000-07:002009-06-11T09:05:14.690-07:00

This was our first attempt at a whole family picture in...who know how long. We almost have everyone looking at the camera! I love it!

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-87822765652566914132009-06-02T07:54:00.000-07:002009-06-02T08:00:28.763-07:00

This is what we do pretty much all day, everyday. It is really wonderful. There is something about watching my kids play gleefully outside that makes me feel good... deep down. Good for the soul, I tell ya!

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-90925304125908523542009-05-25T08:07:00.001-07:002009-05-25T08:25:49.883-07:00

I've written before about how much I love our house...how much work we've put into it...how it feels perfect for our family right now. But we had the rug pulled out from under us last Friday and now we're staring and these walls and wondering what our future will look like...The purchasing director from Spokane School District came for a drop in visit on Friday evening to inform us that there are

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-48528403913856069112009-05-22T13:09:00.000-07:002009-05-22T13:33:12.213-07:00

I've not really been present here on the blog...and not at my house either. I stepped out for a little while.You know how it is...the never ending cycle of feeding, cleaning, changing, calming, disciplining, teaching....sleep and do it all over again thing? And of course you know the.... who am I anymore and what the he** am I doing here, this is more than I bargained for feelings? Yup. Been

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-10961640980464344102009-05-04T13:53:00.000-07:002009-05-04T13:59:12.921-07:00

I only have my two boys today and we're having a splendid day. I'm not going to say it is *easy*....but there seems to be enough room in my head for two. And that is a nice feeling!Here they are this morning working on some projects out on our new picnic table...my super gift from Joely!Oh, and by the way...this is my 400th post. I can't believe I have only posted 400. Better get cracking:)

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26982515.post-29830341807736685052009-04-30T14:08:00.001-07:002009-04-30T14:17:38.552-07:00

How do you capture the connection of friendship with a camera? Especially if you do it like I tried to...the minute before I hopped out of the car to board the airplane home...:) In a word (or few), I will try to capture what my visit with Jenn looked like...*hello*connect*laugh*refresh*love*goodbye*and we must do this again soonA little side note: that sweet baby of hers completely gave me baby

Amy...http://www.blogger.com/profile/13526774407687675837noreply@blogger.com6