I update, I promise

I feel as though I have been neglecting my true blogging roots. To all my friends who got me into the sport, I just want you to know that I do update our family blog a lot more frequently than this one so please check that for most news/updates.

Ten Things About Fall I'm Looking Forward To

I love fall. There is something about it that makes me the good kind of ancy, almost giddy-like. So here are 10 Things that give me this feeling.

1. Fall Decorations. Love 'em, love 'em. Although all of mine are packed up somewhere in Utah, I did spluge and buy a few just because I couldn't stand my house not being decorated for Fall.

2. Addy's little chubby legs in tights. She hasn't worn tights since her legs were too skinny for them to really be tight. But now she has the tree trunks that I think will just look delicious in little tights.

3. Halloween, of course. It's just such a fun holiday and of course is even funner when you get to dress up your little munchkins.

4. My birthday. It is the greatest day of the year and it happens to fall during the Autumn season. Even better.

5. Falling leaves. Not only are they delightful to look at but the way they crunch under your feet is just irresistible.

6. Jackets. Although I never have been one to spend a lot on my jackets aka fashion statements, I enjoy a cute jacket. There is something so cute about a baby in a jacket too.

7. Football games. They can't be avoided so you might as well enjoy them right? No, I really do love going to a good football game where the teams are good and the crowd is enthusiastic. How convenient... I'm sure JD will take me to a Duck game soon.

8. Hot chocolate. Don't think I haven't been drinking it all summer, but now that there is that chill in the air it makes it seems more okay.

9. Caramel apples. While we're on the subject of delectable autumn treats, I do enjoy a good caramel apple.

10. Cozying up inside. While I know the rain has only just begun and in just a few short months I will literally be aching to go outside, I love the feeling of looking out the window to dreary skies and finding comfort in warm, cushy socks, a bowl of soup, and a good book (or games with the babies).

Camping (Finally!)

So we have been wanting to go camping all summer and just finally went this weekend. We went out to the coast and played on the dunes and stuff. We went with some friends from the ward, the Ellisons. It was so much fun. I love camping; the fire, the tent, the fire, the s'mores (as I believe has been previously stated). We had such good weather and even when we went to the beach on Sunday it was literally hot. I mean like could have been in a swimming suit hot. It was awesome. You really had to get your feet into the icy cold water just to cool down. It was perfect. Here are some pics from the fun weekend.

Playing at the dunes

The Ellisons and Us

The Campfire The kids both did really well. I think they'll like camping too.

Addy in her new hat. Yeah, it really was that hot for just a onesie!

Yet another family photo at the beach. Darling.

I also felt I should inform my fellow bloggers and friends who were so concerned for my welfare about traveling to Utah, about the final plan for my travels. My wonderful mom is going to fly into Portland where the kids and I will pick her up and she'll drive with us back to Utah. We're staying for like 2 1/2 weeks. Then JD will fly from Florida to Utah and drive back with us. I think it will be good. We'll let you know how it goes. We're getting excited to go. We leave on Saturday so if I fail to blog for a while that will explain my absence.

The More the Merrier

Do you ever feel like you are being glared at for having two kids that are relatively close? Or more than one kid? JD's brother and sister-in-law were here this weekend and I noticed this more than ever. They have three kids that are 7, 4, and 2, plus my two. Okay, so as you may know, I am from Utah and a lot of kids and close together families are just the norm there. You would never get looked at strangely or have someone grumble something under their breath because you have more than one kid in your shopping cart.

However, here in my dear sweet Eugene, and especially this weekend, it happens all the time. Twice, on two separate occasions, I caught people seriously glaring and talking about us. The favorite though was when we were walking along the river, my sister-in-law, myself, and the five kids, a guy about 45-50 rode by on his bike and said multiple times, "Birth control, birth control." Okay, I have to admit it was funny and my first reaction was to laugh. However, after a minute of thinking about it I really wanting to chase him down and throw something at him, so as to knock him off his bike and onto the hard pavement. I mean really, am I bothering you that much by having two children that the looks and comments are really that necessary?

Now I'll admit there are times that I feel a bit like a circus. I think we all have those days, and having five kids around only intensifies that feeling, but I mean come on. I just don't get it. It's weird to me that people are not only bugged by it but it seems to be actually putting them out of something really great. I mean, I'm pretty sure there's enough oxygen for all of us. Crazy. I really only intend on having one or two more, I'm not going overboard I don't think. I'll never be ashamed of my kids or my choices, this is just one of those times I wish I had something great to say at the right moment.

New Blog - Yes I know, I can barely handle one...

I just wanted to let you guys know that we just started a family blog as well. I figured that would be a better idea than sending everyone (ie parents and grandparents) to my personal blog just in case there are things I want to rant or rave about that may not be particularly family friendly. Anyhow, it will hopefully just give a better update of the fam and have fun pics of the kids and such. The address is http://wimmergonians.blogspot.com. Check it out. It's gonna be sweet!

Excerpts From My 100 Things

I of course, was inspired by Ilene's 100 Things. I thought it was a great thing to put in my journal. Although I'm not sure all 100 of them would be so thrilling for you all, I thought I would post a few so you can get to know me better. Here goes nothing.

1. I love knowing things about sports/sports trivia.
2. I idolize my dad.
3. I usually cannot think of what I want to say or what I should say in the moment.
4. I love to exercise.
5. I am often overwhelmed by the world. (If that makes sense).
6. I wish I were nicer to my mom.
7. I'm certain JD and I were made for each other. (MFEO for any Sleepless in Seattle fans)
8. I like organization - everything in its place. If it doesn't have one I'll make one.
9. I slobber in my sleep.
10. It is a known fact that I am my grandpa's favorite and I love that. (There are only 11 of us so really it's not that amazing but I love it).
11. I love to buy cheap (inexpensive) clothes.
12. I struggle buying shoes.
13. I'm stingy with money.
14. I wish I could retain things I learn better.
15. I love falling asleep on the couch but then hate having to get ready for bed when I wake up.
16. I hate that I bite my nails!
17. I love when my kids cry for me. (Most of the time. I'm sure you understand.)
18. I have a conscience like no other. Nagging, you might call it.
19. I love the rain. (Convenient. Although we haven't really lived here in winter so I suppose that could change.)
20. I don't think I'm a very good cook. Trying to get better.
21. I love to play the piano and sing. Music has always been my escape.
22. I love to cuddle.
23. I still sometimes revele in my high school days.
24. I worry about getting old.
25. In general I don't open up to people very easily.
26. I love being pregnant. (I'm not right now, in case it sounded like that.)
27. I LOVE being in the hospital when I have a baby.
28. I LOOOOVE surprises. Although I do claim I am rarely surprised. I have this annoying mind that usually figures things out.
29. I can't handle scary movies. Like can't sleep for weeks can't handle them.
30. I am way more plain than frilly.
31. I have never liked talking about things I'm excited for that may happen because I'm afraid that wil jinx it. Also about things I don't want to happen because I think talking about it will make it happen. Who knows.
32. I really enjoy a good S'more. Okay, really any s'more. I just love them.
33. I am extremely indecisive.
34. I often rely too much on JD.
35. I am a conserver, I guess you could call it. I shut the fridge door for even just ins & outs. I use every last bit of a bar of soap, a bottle of lotion, etc.
36. I love camping.
37. I want to be someone people look up to.

So that was more than I intended on but I thought those help describe who I am. I really want everyone to do that. I think it's fun too to see how you think of yourself. I think it would be interesting to have your husband or someone do a list about you.

Buy me some Peanuts & Cracker Jackson

One of our favorite things to do as a family in the summer is go to baseball games. We were glad to find the Eugene Emeralds here. I must admit I usually see about 3 or 4 at bats seeing as how I'm usually wrestling someone, but it is just so fun and the atmosphere just makes you feel like summer.

This little video clip was from a game a couple of weeks ago. This is one of Deakin's favorite songs lately and he was so excited to sing it in public, although it may have been a bit fast. And yes, he is saying peanuts and cracker "Jackson." So cute. As an unimportant side note, and possibly a bit disgusting, that is barf on his shirt. We were going to leave the game after the fact but he was happy as could be afterward. I really hope this video worked. It may not be the way it's supposed to but it looks like it will at least take you to the link. Thanks Alison!

A question...

Is anyone else a worrier? I for sure am. Sometimes I really think that if the whole world were perfect, I would be able to find something to worry about. I really consider myself an optimist and a happy person, but just today I started to worry (surprise) that I am always worried so much that I'm not having that much fun anymore. My life is great, please let me stress that but does this just come with age and responsibility or am I unusual in this respect? Please discuss, I really want to know. ( I hope that wasn't a downer of a topic)

Just Simply Boring

So I know that I could possibly be the worst and most boring blogger ever. But I try, I really do. But for some reason I just feel like my life is at somewhat of a boring standstill. My days are definately filled with funny little children incidences and phrases. But as for anything too creative and happy coming to mind; it just isn't happening. I do apologize for this character flaw. I do have thoughts flooding my brain. However I don't feel as though they would necessarily spread joy to anyone.

I can give a small update though. Well, I have lost my husband to Halo II. (Thanks Mr Proudfoot) So I am trying to survive as a single mom. Just kidding, it's not that bad. Why is it though that we always give into our husbands? Or am I the only one?

Deakin is seriously getting so smart. His new thing is to ask what your name is. So I am telling him at least 20 times a day what everyone's name is. Addy is eating everything she can get her chubby little fingers on including playdough, wood chips, hot tamales, just to name a few. She is darling though and is crawling like crazy and pulling herself up on everything.

The kids and I are planning on going to Utah next month while JD is in Florida. Our dilemma though is whether to drive or fly. Flights are cheap right now but it's hard for me to justify spending money when we have a company car with free gas. Would I be crazy to do the drive alone with two kids? They both travel really well but it seems I am always reaching around the seat to get them something and that would just not be a good idea whilst driving. I've decided that drive is a lot like child birth. (Or worse) When it's been a while since you've done it you think "It's not so bad." But then when you're doing it you remember it could possibly be the worst thing you can ever remember. Only with this there is no cute little baby that comes from it. So input/encouragement is welcomed.

I was inspired by Ilene's 100 Things and I decided to make my own in my journal. I thought that would be a good way for my posterity to get to know me. So maybe I'll post a few of the more unique ones later. I have also been trying to find out how to post videos on here. Any instruction will help. (Ilene)

However, I do appreciate the blogging friendships and delight in hearing what's going on with everyone. Come to think of it, sometimes I'm a lot that way in friendships. Sometimes I'm a really good listener but don't have too much to say. I'm coming around you guys, I promise. I just want you to know I'm here, listening.

Back by Popular Demand

Okay, so not really but 2 people did comment on the lack of my blogging presence. We have been just almost crazy busy with the normal summer stuff. We left the first part of July for Utah. We spent the 4th there with family and the rest of that week. Then the 9th we went to Lake Powell with our family friend the Clarks. We had absolutely so much fun. For those of you that may have never been there, it is as near paradise as I can imagine it. We were there from Monday to Saturday. It was so nice to just be able to relax and read (we obviously didn't take the kids) or wakeboard or do whatever we wanted. We are so lucky to be able to go and both just really look forward to the vacation every year. Of course it was around 110 degrees during the day and it seemed like about 108 at night when we were trying to sleep. It took until the last night that I suggested to JD that maybe we shouldn't even sleep on our 30 pound flannel sleeping bag but should just sleep on the mats. That made it a bit more bearable. Really it is just such an amazing place.

So we got home to Eugene on Monday and JD's parents flew in on Thursday. They just left today and JD's sister and brother-in-law and their 7 week old baby fly in tomorrow for a week. So much fun but needless to say we have been busy. I love summers but they always go too fast. I can't believe it is almost August!

Woops!

I have been known to pride myself on being rather grammar and spelling savvy. (Pretty nerdy, I know.) So you can imagine my horror when I realized that my first blogging entry title was misspelled. So, I apologize about that. I didn't know how, or if there is a way to edit a previous blog so the only thing I could do was post another. I just wanted you all to know that I do know there is an "r" in tribute. Please don't let this cast a dark shadow on my blogs to come. Thank you.

A Tibute

This posting fills me with a bit of anxiety, excitement, anticipation, and curiosity. After many perplexing conversations by the "Bunko girls" I'm told they're called, about blogging, I have decided to step into this crazy world myself. I feel like this is really a turning point in my life and I can't wait to see the fruits of my blogging labors.

However, I feel it very necessary to point out that this is mostly in tribute to my dear new friend, Ilene Proudfoot. (Please note that the presentableness or lack thereof of my blog or page, whatever you call it- I still need to learn the vocabulary- does in no way reflect the sincerety or importance of my tribute) I just felt that I needed to let all of the blogging world know what a true and heaven-sent blessing Miss Ilene has been in my little life.

I hope that this doesn't sound too pathetic a story but I just want to really describe this sweet friendship. In November I had a sweet little baby girl. In December we moved from Utah to Medford, Oregon and then six weeks later we moved here to Eugene. All of these have been such great blessings but have really tested my sanity, my confidence, my happiness, and my faith. I have loved Eugene and have been so grateful for the many friends and relationships we have made. However, from the deepest bottom of my little heart I have been longing for a dear friend. Not just someone to make small-talk with or to have superficial conversations with just so we have an excuse to have someone to go to the park with, but someone who honestly cares about me. I've just been wanting that friend that you have that connection with that it doesn't matter what you say, they knew what you meant.

Of course I realize that these friendships don't often appear out of thin air, sometimes you have to work at them, and that friendships now, as a wife and mommy, simply have to be different than those I had in the past as a carefree young girl. However, I felt this what I would like to call "connection" with my sweet Ilene. And now she is leaving me. And while I am somewhat mad at her for this I want to thank her from the depths of that same little heart for giving me, at least for a little while, that friendship I have been so much longing for. The feeling that someone truly cares. The feeling that they want to be with you. The feeling that you have someone to talk to who knows what you are going through and really cares you are going through it too. The feeling that you've found a friend you like so much that you cry when they move away.

I hope that any of this has made sense. I promise to work on the clarity of my blogs. But I am so grateful for this great person who has come into my life and for moments at a time has helped to lift that dark cloud we all sometimes feel. I am so excited for the Proudfoot's newest adventure and I know they will do great. And I know I am praying for Ilene to find that friend in Spokane that I have found in Eugene.