The Sessions Family

Brylee Katie Marie Sessions

2011-08-14T14:46:00.000-07:00

Ok ok, I know Brylee is already just over two weeks old, and most of you have heard the story I'm about to tell, but I'm going to tell it again anyways. :)

Friday July 28th 2011, I went in for my weekly doctors visit feeling uncomfortable, and grumpy. (the previous week I had my membranes stripped, and all it did was make me crampy). Up to this point I had been dialeted to 2cm for the past couple of weeks. I expressed my frustration and worry to my OB about the timing of when she would come. We were suppose to be moving, and Kirt was starting school. Now I know it's best to let them stay in there tell they are ready, but I honestly felt there more pros than cons of her coming sooner. Plus I was almost 40 weeks anyways (or so I thought at this moment in time). My doctor then checks to see where I'm at, and I'm thinking to myself don't say 2 don't say 2. It turns out I was 3 almost 4 and well effaced. Than what she said next I was not expecting....."would you like me to call and see if they can induce you today?" Of course I would ha ha. So I got scheduled to come in around 2 to help this labor get underway. I probably would have went into labor the following week anyways, because during my visit she stripped my membranes again, and I started getting contractions.

So we get to the hospital a few min after 2 and get into a room. I get into the super model gown, and the ever popular IV in my arm, and wait for them to deliberate my induction method. They decided to induce me using a gel called Kramer oddly enough, which stimulates the release of oxytocin to help get the contractions going. I have never had this method before and wasn't sure what to expect, nor have I been induced before getting and epidural. Well they give me the gel and not 10 min later Im in tears. The gel not only worked, it worked a little too well. It took my labor from 0 to 60 in a matter of min. I couldn't move I was in so much pain, the contractions were rolling on top of each other with no relief. I sat there in pain, and finally I couldn't take anymore and had Karie go get them. They immediately gave a steroid shot to slow the contractions down, and once I could sit up I was prepped for the epidual. Now with previous exp. one anesthesiologist comes to give you the big shot in the back. Well this time there were two. I'm thinking to myself great he is probably training. Well I should have just listened to my self and asked for the other guy to do it, but nope I kept quite, and let him attempt to give me the epidural. Now I used to believe that getting the epidural was the most painful part of the whole delivery, now I stand corrected. It seemed like he poked around for ten min (it seemed like). Karie told me later she watched in horror as I was stuck multiple times. At any rate he couldn't find the subdural space which is where you are suppose to poke. He poked outside of it a couple times tearing into my spinal cord. Then the other guy comes over and poke me right in one try. UG! All during this my contractions have slowed but were still coming consistently ever few min.

Ok, so the epidural quickly takes affect, and I'm feeling a bit better, and them I told to expect a headache after the epidural wears off. Great! The doctor checks me and I'm at a 4. About an hour and half had passed up to this point. She than decides to brake my water. Now it's just waiting to get to 10.....barley an hour and 30 min later I'm feeling some pressure, so I have them come and check me, and low and behold it's time to push! I literally pushed 3 times and she was out. Now I was expecting at least a 7 lb baby because I was only a couple of days away from my due date, and my babies are small in general. No... out comes this tiny precious, (long and skinny) little girl. Everyone was surprised. Brylee Katie Marie came into the world at 6:42 pm on July 28th 2011. She weighed 5 lbs 14oz and was 18 1/2 in long. In my unprofessional opinion, she was about 37 weeks gestational age. Good thing she didn't come any earlier. She was tiny (and still is) but mighty. She didn't have jaundice, not infections, and took to breastfeeding really easily.

A few hours after birth I expeirenced the worst headache of my life. Pain medication was not taking it away. You'd think you'd be sore from just giving birth but no, it was my head full of spinal fluid, ick! Hurt so bad! So they ended up giving a blood patch. Process as follows: Take 20cc of blood from the arm and put that blood in the back, right where they poke for the epidural. This is done to help form a clot where the spinal cord was damaged. Then you have to stay down flat on your back for 2 hours. I had to pee so bad by the end of that two hours. Well I'll spare you the humilating details of the next few hours, but I was released the following days and the headache ended coming back..... to make a long story short, I had to go back to the hospital and have a second blood patch.... I have never been poked so many times in my life..... and had to be down for 24 hours and this time I did it. I gradually regained my strength, and am now doing so much better!

Thank you so much to all my family and friends who prayed for us and helped us through this trying time. It sure was eventful. We are so glad baby Brylee is here, she is absolutely wonderful, and a blessing. Even though it has been fun and hectic trying to incorparate another child into the household, we are very happy. Our family is complete! :)

keeps on coming....

2010-11-10T09:38:00.000-08:00

Shop vac: $40

XBOX 360 with one controller: BO

(Sorry the picture is flipped around, but you get the idea)

Large sectional couch, needs some work, it would really good reupholstered, we bought it for $1200, but are asking $100

Computer chair: $15

Graco stroller: $30

Bose speakers: BO

MORE!

2010-11-10T09:33:00.001-08:00

Heavy duty tool storgage, We have about five of them, asking $50 each.

Two dollies: $15 each

Car seat: $10

Pictures and prices

2010-11-10T08:56:00.000-08:00

Ok here is what I have so far, and there is probably more to come. The price I list is negotiable, so if you see something you like and don't like the price, tell me what you would like to pay for it.

This is an older dresser. It has a few scuffs on it, but it would look really niced if you wanted to refinish it, and add new hardware. Asking $75

We have several tables and folding chairs, they can bought individually, or together.

Chairs (set of 5 or six I believe): $25

Table: $ 15

Together, $35

We have three ladders, I'm not sure how long they are, but the two long ones are $30 each, and the shorter one is $20

Kirt the photographer

2010-08-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

There are rare occasions that I will allow Kirt to play with the camera under supervision, and there are several occasions where he will just take the camera when I'm not looking and go willy nilly. Well I just uploaded my cameras memory card and was going through them. There were alot of pictures that were just blobs and blurrs and you could tell that they had been taken form a child and then I came across a couple of pictures that turned out rather well and I had no recollection of taking them.

After looking at the last picture, I knew Kirt had to be the culprit. That is the inside of Niko's dog house! HA HA. Oh the joys of being a kid.

Family reunion

2010-06-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

Our family reunion was a couple of weeks ago, but I'm just now getting to posting about it. June is always a busy month for us. IE Jon's Birthday, Fathers Day, our anniversary, Karie's Birthday, and then planning for Kirts upcoming birthday. Anyways, to add to the already crazy month we had our family reunion at the beginning of the month. We went to Paragunah Utah. Way out in the middle of no where. It was a nice trip though. We got away from the heat and the kids had a blast just running the muck. We spent the day mostly just visiting with family, and then we had an auction. The jean quilt I made sold for $60 and the baby jungle quilt sold for $25. We left Saturday evening. I love vacation, but I love being in my own bed even more. On our way out Jon and I started talking about the long drive home and we were literally three min. underway, Jon and I looked at eachothers and heard the great sound of silence. The kids were out! NICE! Not so nice them waking up periodically to scream. ick!

Good Trip!

Easter

2010-04-18T16:03:00.001-07:00

Yeah I know Easter has come and gone, but I just wanted to post these fun pictures! The kids had such a blast on Easter weekend. We spent Saturday with my dad and Sunday with the Sessions. Kirt and Hailey got hunting eggs down pat!

Picture day!

2010-03-31T08:29:00.000-07:00

So I'm trying to get some pictures gathered for this family reunion project I have to do for this summer. I wanted to get some more recent ones of all three, because I hardly have any pictures of all three of the kids. Fat chance... I went over to Karies to get some help, and the kids weren't haven it! They were all over and just having a good ole time. I did manage to get some cute pictures, however I will have to try again later because I need a couple of more for some projects I'm doing. Jarens pictures turned out best because he couldn't move!

More Gardening

2010-03-25T16:58:00.000-07:00

Today we spent the day working some more on our garden. Jon built a fence to keep the kids and dog out, while I planted roses and other flowers in the front yard. It was nice to do some out door work and feel good about it. Kirt helped me picked up all the weeds and dig the holes for the roses. The pictures don't do the flowers justice, they really are exquisit!

Couple of things

2010-03-22T18:05:00.000-07:00

Last night baby Olivia Miller was born! She was 7lbs 12oz, and 20in and quarter long. It was an eventful night! Karie went into the hospital around 5:30 yesterday. They checked her out and monitored her and then moved her to a delivery room. Karie dealt with the pain like a trooper, she was given pitocin and had her waters ruptured without any pain medicine! I was impressed and also I was concerend at the same time. It is hard to watch a family member in pain, but she did amazing. She then had an epidural around 7:30, and within a half an hour she was dialated to ten! I was not expecting that. I was in labor with Kirt for 22 hours, and spent an hour pushing him out. Well I thought ok baby will be born any time now. Well yeah at 11:22 she was. Karie pushed for two hours! Olivia was not coming down the birth canal. Karie was exhausted and she was set on having a vaginal delivery with no episotomy. Well when it looked liked they were going to use other means to deliver her, Karie was able to push her out, she was huge! Her hand was up by her face while she was being pushed down; that and her size contributed to a long enduring time for Karie, but she did and tears of joy filled the room as baby Olivia was born. She had so much dark hair and she is just so beautiful not a mark on her. I'm so blessed to have shared that expiernce with Karie, Thank you and I love you!

Today we spent the day with Nanna Icide and we all went swimming. The kids had so much fun! Kirt loves the water and was jumping in even though it was pretty cold!

Gardening

2010-03-20T12:13:00.000-07:00

The rain was great, but it created a weed fest for sure in our back yard. I think we had just about every type of weed you could imagine in our backyard. So I had to call in a favor from the expert. My dad. Thank goodness he was willing to help because I wasn't quite sure where to begin. So he brought his tools over and we got down to business. Now I know it looks like all I did was take pictures, but I actually did a lot of weeding and putting it all in the trash. I also planted some flowers. :) I left the whole spading the ground and putting the seeds in, to the expert. Kirt and Hailey had a blast and so did the dog! Now I'm just going to have to put up a barrier or something to keep them out.

Niko is digging a hole to China!

Now there is still a ton of work to be done, but slowly and surely our back yard will have peace, order, and beauty

Happy St Patricks day

2010-03-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

So I was feeling crafty and decided to make Hailey a dress. I bought the fabric like two days ago and had an idea in my head, well lets just say, I won't sew until midnight anymore it's too hard to concecentrate on perfection. However when you smock or ruffle fabric it hides the flaws. :) I love the bright green it is so cute on her!

new makeup artist

2010-03-13T08:19:00.000-08:00

Hailey watches me put makeup on each morning. Well she decided she wanted to try. She looked like a pro. It made me laugh at how serious she was.

Change is good!

2010-03-04T18:22:00.000-08:00

So a couple of exciting things happened this past week. First off, we finally got carpet! I'm so happy now the kids rooms actually look more put together. Secondly, I have been wanting to this for some time now, and finally was able to do it! I chopped all my hair off! After two years of growing it out, I finally said good bye. I cut over 8 in off! Lots of hair. Now Jaren can't pull it out anymore.

Hailey's birthday

2010-02-23T07:37:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who came and made Hailey's birthday special and fun. I know she had a great time. :) I can't believe she is two! Here some pictures from the party. She took a nap before her party and Kirt put stickers all over her lol. Kirt also helped with her cake. He rolled his own fondant and put it on.

Fun Week

2010-02-19T19:40:00.000-08:00

We have just been having a fun week! It was Hailey's birthday this past Tuesday. We are having her party tomorrow. Anyways we were able to do some mommy daughter shopping while Jon stayed home with the boys. Hailey is hilarious when it comes to shopping. She will go pick Items up show me and say "cute." Thats all good and fun for her, but when it's time to go she gets upset because well lets just face it she isn't done shopping yet. lol I've created a monster. So with that aside we were able to get some fun spring clothes since it is already starting warm up. I know you're all excited. Then today we went shopping with aunt Karie, and visited Nanna. She came in town for Hailey's party. YAY! The kids had a blast at Tempe Market Place. It was so nice outside!

Crafty time with the kids

2010-02-09T16:12:00.000-08:00

Jon has been in Flag since Monday, so today the kids and I made Valintines Day cards. I need to get more glue sticks. Hailey kept saying, "glue, glue, Kirt glue," She didn't like having to take turns. That was the best part of the craft for her. They actually did a pretty good job pasting the hearts down. They enjoyed themselves thats what was important.

Hailey's birthday is in two weeks I'm not even ready. I just got invitations out so hopefully you'll be getting them in your mail in the next couple of days. :) Hope you all can come. It's going to be Tea-rrific. Well won't be serving tea lol, but we are going to have lots of tasty treats.

On Sunday after church we were all relaxing and Jon unbuttoned Jaren's shirt and set him down to soak up the sun. Then he said "he's bringing sexy back" I just laughed. My little hot stuff!

Outside project

2010-02-02T09:19:00.000-08:00

Since we have lived in our house we haven't given much attention to our backyard. It is one of my goals for this yeart to start a garden and our back yard is pretty messy. So here are some before pictures. I need everything raked up, trees purned, a stump removed, a dead tree taken to the dump, and gravel removed. It is a huge project and Jon is gone so much I'm about ready to hire someone to do it. I'm going to work on it this week and hopefully I can get the major stuff done before Hailey's birthday. So much to do so little time!

Monograms

2010-02-01T08:58:00.000-08:00

I just love monograms and have been wanting to do some for each of the kids for some time now. I've just been super busy. Anyways I was browsing through blogs and I found this post on Unnecesssary Necessities http://amber-unnecessarynecessities.blogspot.com/2008/03/l-is-for-livy.html for steps on the how to. It is super easy and not expensive to make at all. I had most of it on hand. Anyways here is the first one I did for Haileys room. I'm going to be getting a shelf to hang it on the wall.

Quiet Book

2010-01-29T11:19:00.001-08:00

Ok so I have seen a couple of these done and just find them sooo cute and creative. I saw a couple of different ways and like how Emily dixon did it on her blog, I also used ideas from homemade by Jill as well. Here is what I have so far and I have about two more pages to complete.

I also have seen a bunch fun apron patterns. I decided to make one for Hailey out some scraps I had. I didn't follow any pattern and thats probably why it didn't turn out perfect, but I like how it turned out anyways and Hailey likes to wear it when we make cookies together. :)

Hailey got this really cute big wheel for Christmas, and Kirt got on it and started taking her for a ride. I think my favorite part of this picture, even though Kirt and Hailey look pretty darn cute, is that Jon is sacked out with Jaren in the background. :)

Funny story

2010-01-24T15:22:00.000-08:00

Ok so it has been awhile since I have posted anything, but that is simply because I haven't been able to find my camera; until today. First off we all know how husbands are a little squeamish about changing diapers. How does this relate to finding my camera you ask? Well It had been awhile since Jon had changed one of Jaren's diapers and I had just changed one of Hailey's. So I asked him if he wouldn't mind changing Jaren it would be nice. Upon agreeing to this, I warned him to wait just a bit because Jaren looked like he still wasn't quite done. Jon was already making faces before he even opened the diaper, and he started to get him all cleaned up when out shot some more, and I mean SHOT. Jon started freaking out and I just laughed. It had gotten on his leg and the couch. He then said ok you're finishing this. So I went over and cleaned Jaren up and removed the couch cushions, and low and behold there was my camera wedge up in the corner of the cushion. So I just thanked Jaren for pooping on daddy so I could find my camera. lol.

So besides that I have been busy this month working on crafts and preparing for Hailey's birthday. I can't believe she will already be two. She is so smart. She can count to ten pretty much on her own and she sings the ABC's with me. Along with a sling of other vocab, including; share, cute, pop (which means Popsicle, and she asks for one regularly) bite, and much more.

Here are a couple of crafts I have done. I found them on other blogs and concocted my own make of it.

The cozy car caddy from homemade by Jill:

I've also been working on a quiet book and I'll post pictures from that later. It's still in the works.

We have also recently aquired a new member in the family. Our dog Rosco got out at ten one night and never came back. He was more than likely stolen and was not at the pound. The kids and I were really upset, so Jon surprised us all by getting us a puppy.

His name is Niko... (Jon named him) He is a German shepherd/ lab mix. He is quite the handful, but Jon loves him. He won't admit it, but he gives more attention to that dog then the kids. Anyways hopefully I'll be able to keep up on things now that I have my camera. I'm partial to reading posts with pictures myself.

Thanks for ready about my crazy life.

2009-12-27T11:24:00.001-08:00

2009-12-27T11:18:00.000-08:00

Christmas with the Sessions Family

2009-12-27T11:03:00.000-08:00

It was a great Christmas and a busy one as usual. The week before Christmas my mom came down and spent the weekend with us. The kids absolutely love my mom! They had so much fun spending time with their nanna, and I definately enjoyed the break. On Christmas Eve we went over to Jon's parents house. We ate a nice dinner and let the kids wear themselves out. Then we opened gifts from eachother. Time passed by and we finally left at around 9:30. It was a wonderful evening together. On Christmas morning Jon had everything set up and we let Kirt and Hailey have at it. They were so excited and so much fun playing with all their new toys. I got Jon an Itunes card and set up his router for Christmas. I wanted to get him a gym membership, but we need to wait tell we know what his schedule will be for sure with work next year. He got me a bunch of movies and Wii fit.

At about 11:00 we headed over to my dads and had an awesome lunch and then opened presents yet agian. I don't think the kids will be needing toys for a long time, they got so spoiled this year by family. We left at around 3ish and were so tired when we got home.

Overall it was a wonderful Holiday!

Gift for mom

2009-12-23T09:45:00.000-08:00

I decided to make a Quilt this year for my mom for Christmas. I made it out some jeans she gave and a pair of mine. This was my first attempt at a jean quilt and I probably wont make another until I get a serger. It came together real nice I wanted to add a bit more but time wasn't on my side, but my mom was happy so I am too.

Goofy time

2009-12-06T10:20:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Hailey and Kirt decided to get their hyper on. They started spinning around until they ran into the wall or fell down. They laughed and ran around for about thirty min. It was very entertaining. Jon and I just watched them and laughed. Hailey put on her sunglasses she got for her birthday and she looked so funny. If you look closely at Kirt you'll find a big goose egg on his Head. On Friday we had my dad and Janet over to visit for a bit. Well Jaren had his circumcision that day so I had to cut and run. Kirt and Hailey decided they wanted to play in the back of my dads truck for a bit before they took off. Well I was almost to the doctor when I get a call from Jon that Kirt had opened the tailgate and fell out of the back of the truck! So now I'm freaking out, and felt like turning around to get home. I had Jon explain every little detail of what happened to be sure I wasn't going to have to rush back to get him to the ER. Then I called my dad to double check. They reassured me that he would be fine. So I left it at that and went to the appointment.

I was able to stay and watch the procedure. I remember them just taking Kirt back and wasn't allowed to be back there with him. Which was probably a good thing, being a first time mom and all, I probably would have cried the whole time. The surgery was quick and pretty simple. I know if Jon was there watching he would of passed out before any cutting started. He gets sick from just the smell of the betadine. Anyways of course Jaren had a hard time with it, but overall did well they kept a passie in his mouth.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-03T08:30:00.000-08:00

We went to Pinetop this Thanksgiving and burrr it was cold. We got to go in the jacuzzi, which was so relaxing; watching the stars while sitting in warm bubbles. It was fun to spend time with the family and overall it was a nice Thanksgiving. Jon, Karie, and I all got sick. lol go figure, but other than that the kids had a blast. On Thanksgiving morning Mom, Harmonie and I went in the jacuzzi and I asked Jon if he would watch the kids, and he kinda just say yeah uh huh, and I knew he wouldn't be keeping a close eye on them. (he was into his game) Ok thinking to myself better make this a quick dip. Well it wasnt quick enough. Kirt and Hailey made thier way outside ...Kirt comes over and tries to get in the jacuzzi. We explain that its hot and that he needs to go inside. Well he runs inside and I'm thinking we didnt see the last of him. Sure enough a min later he runs out in his birthday suitye and jumps in, lol that was the end of the relax time.

Thank you for your Prayers

2009-11-23T16:12:00.000-08:00

Jaren was able to come on friday of last week. He is doing really well and has been such a sweet baby. Things haven't been too crazy yet because he sleeps most of the time. I'm sure once he is on the move though it will get interesting. The whole labor its self was very quick and by far the simplest one I've had. I was basically induced. They gave me and epidural and started me on pitocin at three in the morning. The next thing I know at 10:20 he was ready to be born. I'll spare you the details, but recovery was pretty easy this go around. Anyways, things are going well as of now and we are going to my moms for Thanksgiving. I hope to see some of you soon.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all.

Jaren Ryker Sessions

2009-11-19T14:48:00.000-08:00

He was born November 17th 2009 at 10:28 am

6lbs 7ozs

20in long

As soon as I get a little more time I will update more, but at the moment baby Jaren is still in the hospital and will continue to stay there until next week, He picked up a bit of infection somehow and is currently on antibiotics. If you could keep him in your prayers we'd appreciate the support. He is doing alright so far and the antibiotics are doing their job.

Still pregnant

2009-11-15T13:18:00.001-08:00

Ug. So this has been the most aggravating past couple of weeks.... I have been having contractions and some very painful, yet when I decide to finally start timing them they will dissipate. Last week I was checked by my doctor and was said to be at 2-3, well I started getting contractions constantly and went in only to be sent home because they weren't strong enough. Then I went in because my mom got the best of me making me think my water may be leaking.....I won't go into the details that lead to that assumption. Anyways I ended going and having to stay because there were dips in the babies heart beat. Well now going on a week later baby is fine and growing at a rapid rate, and I'm left almost fully effaced and barely dilated. It was so different with my last two pregnancies. With Hailey I went in with contractions and they felt about the same as what I'm feeling now, but I progressed and was able to have her the following day. You'd think this being my third child things were go a little more quickly, well maybe that is the case with the delivery part, but as for just finding the right moment to go to the hospital. Inconsistency. I keep stressing that I'm going to go into labor and when I finally do it is going to progress a lot quicker and Jon will be at work and not able to get to me very quickly. In the end I know I'm just worrying. The baby will come when he is ready and in fact Kirt was born around this gestational age. I'm almost 38 weeks. I guess I'm just anxious. Hailey came at 37 weeks and I was hoping to do the same with this baby, whom by the way is still nameless. Jon finally decided to take part in helping me name him and now it's just down to the order of the middle and first name, because it would sound good either way. I've changed the name so many times that I'm not going to tell anyone until he comes out and Jon and I both say, happy birthday _______! At church Jon brought up the topic of why he doesn't want anymore children. I don't like when he does this, I get my back all up. He just feels that he won't be able to spend adequate time with each child if we have a ton.... lol I'm like Jon I don't want a ton of kids either, but apparently he thinks four is equatable to a ton. So I think he has a valid point, but I know that if we were to have four it would work out just fine. What am I saying I need to get through this next year with three! Once things get into routine it will go a bit smoother and then it will be good days and bad days just like it was adjusting to having the two.

To get on a different topic (still kids though) Last week my mom came into town in hopes that the baby may come. That didn't happen of course, so we went and spent time over at my aunts house. Now my aunt has a big house and 4 children of her own. So it gets loud and chaotic there. Not to mention usually half of my moms family meets up to visit too. Well my aunts oldest daughter enjoys playing with Hailey, and taking care of her. Which is great so I can at least take it a bit easy. Well she had been holding Hailey and caring her around for quite some time, and of course Hailey didn't mind the attention. Well its starting to get late and my mom and I are about ready to go. So I start rounding everything up when I notice I can't find Hailey anywhere. (I was calm at this point thinking she was still with my cousin) So I look all around and even go outside and look because thats where everyone said they saw her last. So after about ten mins panic is starting to quick in because I heard her mention earlier that she wanted to go with the kids to the park. I told her to tell me first of course, so when she didn't I was like where could they be? So I head outside and start walking heading for I don't know where.... the park or maybe them just strolling. My mom comes running out after me and starts walking with me, I was more like jogging. My mom says to me, why didn't we take the car. She's started to get out of breath, but I was get more frantic by the min. She then called my sister Harmonie to bring to car to us. After hoping in the car we drive by the park and see no one. I just snapped. I started having a break down and crying like no other. My mom was trying to keep her self calm and it's a good thing she did because that would have made me worse, but I started screaming call 911 repeatedly. I thought they were abducted or something of that nature. We drove back the house and right as we do her comes my cousin with Hailey. I run and grabbed her sobbing now. I wasn't mad just very worried about both of them. Well it turns out they had gone next door. Before I went off looking for them I had a feeling they were there, I know that Holy Ghost was trying to prompt me. Now looking back I wish I would have listened and saved myself the heart ache. (Pregnant women are so emotional) Well after I calmed down I was able to be rational again and she of course felt terrible that she freaked me out, but I told her it didn't help that I was totally hormone fueled. Lets just say in that moment you feel you have lost your child it is the worst and most terrifying feeling I have ever felt in my life. I'm so glad they both were ok and will take this experience to help me in life

Halloween!

2009-11-02T07:38:00.001-08:00

Ok so this I feel like we didn't invest ourselves that much into Halloween. We ended up going with our family Friends Jeff, Carolyn and their children. Jon and I didn't dress up... I know shame. Anyways Kirt was GI Joe and Hailey was a fairy. We went to another wards trunk or treat and then went to a few houses. It's amazing for how little we were out, how much candy the kids got. Which is now hiding in the closet until futher notice. Hailey was so cute, and Jon got here to say Happy Halloween. Kirt had fit at first and had to dressed and redressed several times. I think I have a picture from each Halloween of him putting up a fuss in his costume. Once he gets going and starts getting candy he is fine, but up until that point it's a mess. So here are some photos....

Sweets and Sours in Life

2009-10-27T14:16:00.000-07:00

Today I met my new little niece. Evelyne May Sessions was born at 21weeks at 13.4 oz. She came to this earth for only a few short minutes of life.....

My sister in law and husband our two amazingly kind loving people. Ethan, born last year at 23 weeks 1 lb 2 oz is a miracle, and we are glad to have him in our family he is such a sweet and smiley boy. I feel blessed to have them as my family. They have taught me something with challenges today. As I was able to hold my little niece for a little bit, and look at her precious perfect face, and then look back at her parents, I realized how grateful I was for what I have been given in my life. Everyone has different trials and obstacles that they must endure in life, and I know that there is some grief and pain through this one that they are having, but I know that they are going to make it. I was impressed today by the love and closeness our family shared with this special little being, and no matter how crumby the situation your family will always be there for you. I just want to let David, Kele and Ethan know that I love them and will continue to pray for them.

Halloween Fun

2009-10-20T13:54:00.000-07:00

I love the holidays, it's so fun to have family traditions and spend time together. Each year I like to make sugar cookies with the kids and they enjoy it too. Of course I loose a lot of dough that way, because two little birds can't stop eating it. Anyways I finally found a sugar cookie recipe that is fantastic. I have tried numerous recipes and have always wound up tossing them. Either they tasted great, but wouldn't hold their shape, or they tasted like dirt and would.

In this recipe they are moist, have great flavor and hold their shape.

INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cups butter, softened
2 cups white sugar
4 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cover, and chill dough for at least one hour (or overnight).
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into shapes with any cookie cutter. Place cookies 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake 6 to 8 minutes in preheated oven. Cool completely.

*if dough starts getting soft put it back in the fridge to chill again for best results.

This year we also carved a pumpkin! The kids were so excited and then when they saw what came out of the pumpkin they were a bit skeptical to jump in on the fun. Eventually once moist of the seeds and flesh was out they would put their hands in.

Hailey's Quilt

2009-10-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

So I finally finished this quilt I have been working on for Hailey. I tried some new techniques and had fun putting it together. Satin is such a pain to work with that is for sure, but it will be nice and smooth for her. :) The next quilt I will be working on will be for the new baby. This pregnancy went by so fast. When you have to other kids to worry about it's hard to really think about much else. So I would say this year I will have lost the most brain cells, due to being pregnant and taking care of Kirt and Hailey through it. It has been quite the expierence. If I go into labor around 37 weeks like I did with Hailey, we could have a new Sessions here around November 10th.

Toddler fall lap quilt

2009-09-20T07:38:00.000-07:00

Ok so I finished my first simple quilt for sale. It is very basic, but beatiful. It is made with cotton fabrics and tulle. It has not been tied off, but if anyone would like it done let me know.

Toddler lap quilt

38x26

$50.00

Bird house family project

2009-09-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

Kirt was watching cartoons the other day and on one of the shows a boy made a bird house with his dad. I thought that would be fun for Kirt and Jon to do together sense Jon hasn't really got a chance to use his tools. Kirt needed some one on one time, but it ended up that everyone helped put it together. Kirt helped drill holes and Hailey handed daddy nails. :) We need to get a table before we tackle anything crazy with woodworking. It was tricky working without one.

Animals

2009-09-08T19:56:00.000-07:00

Ok so we have two pets now, oh and one fish. We got a puppie from my sister, who by the way has three more for sale and is trying to get ride of them, and kitten from a person at Jon's work. They are so cute and for the most part get along. They chew on eachother, but I'd rather have that then have them chew on furniture or kids. Rosco is our min pin puppie and he is a handful. He is very playful and has a lot of energy. Our cat Taz on the other hand is so lazy and sleeps pretty much all day. The kids have lots of fun with them, but they get rough at times. Rosco is a lap dog. He is always in my lap or following me waiting for me to sit down. They are both good pets, but a lot a work. (well the dog is anyway) So ya if anyone wants one, Karie is more than happy to give you a good deal, They are worth about $700, but I think she is selling them for like 150. They are so cute, and they don't get very big.

Updates

2009-08-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

It's been way too long sense I last updated the blog, but it has been an absolute nut house at my place! So lets just get out of the way old news, but still news, first.

June 25th,

Hailey was admitted to the Burn Center in Phoenix. The iron fell right on her little hand and burnt through several layers of skin. She endured a month hospital stay, which included ivs, hospital food, uncomfortable nights (mostly for mommy), pain medicine, dressing changes for the wound, and three surgeries. She was a trooper through the whole thing. She came out with a skin graft on her hand, the skin was taken from her bum. So if you can imagine the pain this little one had to go through. To this day, she has regular check ups at the hospital to make sure everything is healing correctly, and she has to wear a special glove on her hand to help flatten the graft. She is doing wonderful and is healing very nicely. There is a little scaring which she will be able to have removed later in life. Other than this whole ordeal she is advancing physically and mentally like crazy. She talks so much and can be very demanding at times. She comes up and says mommy, until she gets my attention and then ask for whatever it is she wants for the moment. She at least will say please, lol which is pretty cute.

Kirt is starting preschool in a week and let me tell you I couldn't be more excited, not only because I get a break, but I'm positive this will help him progress in his speech.

Jon has been promoted at work, which is great, but with that comes more responsibilites. I feel like I hardly see him, but I know he is working hard to support our family.

As for myself, I am 26 weeks along and feeling it. I've got the nice basketball under my shirt going at the moment and will still have to endure three more months of growth. Besides getting ready for the baby I have been working on fixing up our house. We have been there since May and let me tell you owning your own home is such a task. I am greatful that we have the place and think it will be quite awesome once I get all my home renovations done. It is however, far from friends and family. We are making it work though, and appreciate thoughs who have come to visit. :) Anyways, I always am looking for projects to do and found myself with a spare room. I would like to start offering a beginners sewing/ quilting classes, and then start selling quilts or other requested items. If anyone is interested I'm hoping to start in september. I'm waiting on getting the room finished. Its going to be 35 for 3 classes, which will last an hour.

So basically that is whats going on with our fam. Hope you all are well.

Family photos

2009-05-16T14:33:00.000-07:00

Here some family pictures we took over Easter weekend!

New home!

2009-05-13T10:28:00.001-07:00

We are so excited to announce that we are finally moving into our new home! It has been a stressful process of finding the right one, getting approved and getting all the required paper work in. We have tons of work ahead of us. It will need new carpet and some major repainting. The previous owners had an interesting taste in color choice. Anyways, once we get the major things all fixed up and decent we would love to have an open house and invite you all. I don't know when because it will take awhile to get everything in order, but I will let everyone know as soon as I can. Just a heads up though we live on 75th AVE and Camleback. It is pretty far but we are very happy with it and hope to spend a long time there, and make it our own

Due date

2009-05-01T13:27:00.000-07:00

Ok so I went to Planned Parenthood this week to finaly get my proof of pregnancy. It been so busy I still haven't gotten into see the doctor. lol It's alright though the average women doesn't get in until usually around 7 weeks. That is right around when you get to hear the heart beat. So I kinda got a estimated due date, December 1st, but I'm thinking it will be around Thanksgiving. I'm about 10weeks along and hopefully will be getting into see the doctor here in the next couple of weeks. As for how I'm doing I've been pretty nauseated lately, and throw every once in awhile. My clothes are starting to get a bit tight and I look bloated. I'll get some pictures up hopefully soon, most of our stuff is packed up and being stored in a storage unit while we stay with some good family friends. We only have a couple of weeks left tell our house closes and we can't tell you how happy we our to finally own our own home. If you any of you are considering on getting a home in the near future my mom has been fantastic getting us through this crazy month. She is a realtor and a loan officer and she is amazing when it comes to wheeling and dealing. We have greatly appreciated all of her hardwork and patience with this whole process.

UGG

2009-04-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

So my good fortune in feeling pretty good has now took a turn for all the usual exciting symptoms associated with pregnancy! On top of that I had to take Kirt to the ER last night, because I could not for the life of me get his fever of 102.6 (taken axillary temp-meaning armpit) Poor thing he was so miserable and listless the other day. So I called his doctor and asked if I should take him to urgent care or what else I could try to bring it down.... Well when he finally called me back (9:30) He said he may have strep and I'm like oh great, so instead of checking him out more closely my self and being worried about his raging fever, I took him in. After getting there I realized that I was in for a long night...and Kirt was starting to act a little more normal, and his fever had gone down a bit. I wanted to just check him out then, but of course you have to jump through all the hoops to be positive it's nothing serious. So I waited tell midnight to finally get into a room and have a swab taken. By this time I feeling really nauseated, like I could blow at any second. So I sat there by the trash, while my stomach sloshed around. I waited and waited for relief. Nothing... then about 10- 15 min later, BLE. I threw up a bunch of bile that burned my nose and throat, my tummy had been empty for the past few hours. There was nothing in it. (sorry if that is a bit much for some of you) After I washed up I felt considerably better.

When the swab came back negative they wanted to do a chest X-ray, (and he didn't like that because I couldn't be right by him to comfort him), and a urine test. By 2:00 his fever piqued again so they gave him Motrin, and decided to move forward with the urine sample since the other test came back negative. I hate urine samples. I tried so hard to get Kirt to pee in the cup, but he was just so tired and just wanted to sleep. So instead of waiting for him to pee they catheterized him. He had this done once before when he had the stomach flu and it was hard to watch then, but this go around was worse, because he was yelling owie and please no! It was so sad.

It was about 3:00 and I was so tired and feeling nauseated again and I seriously did not want to throw up more. So I walked around and drank some sprite. I asked how long the results would be and got the answer 15-20 min..... well 5:00 roles around and I'm sitting there shivering waiting for someone to just come check me because by this Point, (no even before then I knew that he would be ok and it was just some viral infection that probably only last 24 hours). So Finally some one comes and basically says just that and we are free to go. I ran Kirt out to the car as fast as I could and hurried home.

Kirt is definitely better today, and I realize that being a mom comes with worry and haste. Kirt would have been just fine if I would have just waited it out at home and kept giving him Tylenol and Motrin. I would have been a lot more comfortable too. I was just worried because I've never had him have a fever that I couldn't get down, and he was scaring me with his behavior. Rest assured he is ok and well and I am just a little on the tired side and nauseated, but all is well our new house will be closing in 3 weeks and You all will have to come visit. I'm so excited. It is going to take some work, but I think in the end it will be worth more once I'm done with it :). It was a good investment.

Round 3

2009-04-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

Ok, this may come as a shock to some of you, but the Sessions family is going to increase this year by one more. Thats right, we are expecting! I know totally crazy and unexpected, but we are happy none the less. Hopefully we will be in our new house soon, and then I can start getting more organized. It has been nuts over here! Last week was a big week, because we found out that there is a high possibility we will have to be out of here by this weekend and secondly we found out about the baby. So I will be busy packing and cleaning all week and this weekend. As for the pregnancy, I haven't been feeling too sick yet, but who knows how long that will last. So if anyone wants to help us out, that would be fantastic. :) Happy Easter to all.

KIRT!

2009-03-26T18:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I didn't get a chance to post because I was busy spending time with one of my good friends Jennifer, who by the way just got home from her mission. Well before we got together Kirt decided to test his motor skills once again. I had just opened the back door to allow him and Hailey to play outside while I picked up a bit. (Sorry this story is going to get a little hectic to follow). Anyways the previous day Kirt learned how to climb over our stone wall and into the neighbors back porch. He climbed on top of the grill and over to a wooden storage unit on their side. I saw him climb over and they were outside at the moment and just laughed, then I told them beware it will probably happen more often now that he knows he can do it. I didn't think much of it at the time because they were so light hearted about it. They kindly guided Kirt back over to our back porch. Well I went inside to get dinner going and the next thing one knocks at my door and says that Kirt climbed over and just walked right in to their house and plopped on the couch to watch a Emperors New Groove with them. I'm thinking awesome now I can get dinner on.....Well picking up where I first began our story. IT was not awesome, just as I had suspected Kirt was all too hyped up to climb over again. I just saw two of the guys leave their house and I'm like crap. So I run over to grab him and HE WENT INSIDE THEIR HOUSE! I start freaking out immediately, because I just saw them leave and I didn't want to just go walking in there when Kirt obviously had no problem doing so. I start panicking and debating what I should do. Option one just walk in and grab him. Option two wait tell he comes out. Option three see if there is anyone still home sense the door was unlocked. Ok so option was not going to happen of course, so I shot for option 3. I start ringing the doorbell, knocking, and freaking out all the while. No one was answering and could her Kirt reeking havoc. I then decided ok I have no choice I'm just going to walk in there and get him. Right as I'm about to open the door LITERALLY one of them answers holding Kirt. THANK GOODNESS!!!! I apologize repeatedly; feeling so embarrassed and I probably was completely red in the face. He said he thought it was just his roomate coming back to get something, and comes to find Kirt playing with the guitar for guitar hero. LOL. Ok, relief instantly. As We are leaving he jokes and says see you later Kirt. I'm moved right when we got home. So Thank goodness Kirt was all right and didn't cause any major damage, (His specialty) and that we have nice neighbors.

Lets go fly a Kite!

2009-03-26T18:30:00.000-07:00

So today I wanted to focus on some quality family time, and it's been nice and breezy outside the past week. With that said we went to get a kite and other Miscellaneous toys for outside fun, (ie. a big thing of bubbles and side walk chalk.) So we get home and I can't tell you how excited I was to get this kite up and going; probably more so than Kirt. HA. Anyways I get it put together and we all head outside to test it out and I must admit the last time I did the hole kite thing was like in 4th grade. So I'm standing there looking like a retard trying to get the darn thing to fly, I had Jon hold the kite and I hold the string, vice a verse. I mean how hard can it be? I tell Jon to go run with it, and by the way he is determined to not be involved in my silly little game. After about 5min of no success, I took it and started to run, and sure enough that is all it took. (I knew it was a simple process all along) By this point I'm having a good ole time trying to keep it up. The breeze was strong but not constant enough to keep it up and I wasn't skilled enough in the first place to get it really high. I finally handed it over to Kirt and he enjoyed for a whole 60 seconds. So much for that plan, he had more fun getting out the neighbors toys. All well, I had fun with it some more. Jon played with Hailey mostly. She liked the bubbles. After runnin the muck for awhile I got pooped of course, and decided to go play with the chalk. We don't have much room on our back porch so I just traced Kirt, and like that. He even started to try and trace himself. It was definitely a fun filled family day!

Recipe for the Day

2009-03-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe online and tried it the other night. It turned out pretty good. For added flavor though I marinated the chicken in olive oil and some random seasonings, then I grilled it. YUM!

Creamy Chicken and Penne

8 oz uncooked multigrain penne pasta

1 ½ cups fresh or frozen small broccoli florets

1 cup fat free half and half

4 oz cream cheese

1tsp oregano leaves

1tsp rosemary leaves

1tsp thyme leaves

½ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp salt

1 ½ cup chopped cooked chicken breast

2tbs grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese

1. Cook pasta in large saucepan as directed on package, adding broccoli during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain well.

2. Meanwhile, bring half-and-half to simmer in small saucepan on medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add cream cheese, oregano, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder and sea salt; whisk until cheese is melted and sauce is well blended. Add chicken; simmer until heated through.

3. Place pasta and broccoli in large serving bowl. Spoon sauce evenly over pasta mixture. Toss gently to coat well. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

still searching

2009-03-10T12:06:00.000-07:00

We are still looking for someone to take over our lease. The house we want is almost completed and they want us to move in when they are finished. If anyone knows someone or you yourself would like to move in give us a call. :) I will have pictures posted shortly

Anyways here is a bit of an update for us. Sorry it has been awhile, but I have been working on getting everything tip top for the move. -- With that said, Kirt is FINALLY potty trained. He takes himself all the time now. YAY! It is such a relief not to have to buy diapers for him anymore. They are so expensive. On another positive note we are getting him to talk more. Which is awesome! He will repeat words after me and is speaking more clearly.

Kirt likes wearing his underwear so much he decided to share his delight with Hailey's baby doll.

Hailey is doing great. She is walking all over creation. She loves playing with Kirt and they have a couple of favorite games they like to play together. One of which is "peek-a-boo". (what kid doesn't like that) The other is "spitting". Which is not the best habit, I'll be the first to admit, (as long as they aren't spitting on eachother or anyone else) They just like sitting there taking turns spitting. Lol. They get really hysterical. As for Hailey talking, she likes saying a couple of things. Her favorite word at the moment is "don't" and she says it to Kirt all the time. She also says: Kirt, cool, hi, bye, mom, Dad, and a new one, turtle. (Grandpa White has turtles) Last week at ward conference I was with her out in the hall when one of the other little girls in our ward comes out. (she is a week or two older than Hailey). Anyways Hailey just walks up to her and says "hi". It was so cute. She is so smart and will probably start talking at an earlier age than Kirt.

Jon is still managing at Hollywood video and he is doing awesome at it. He is 2nd in the region for store sales. He is one of the top managers as well. He goes around helping improve other stores. Granted in doing this it makes him extremely busy, but he still finds time to be a loving husband and father.

As for me, I have been working on getting stuff ready for my site http://www.delicatedelightful.com/. I'm also working on marketing some new products, just to shake things up. I stay pretty busy at home and occsionally go a little loopy without adult conversation, however I am happy most days which is great considering past ordeals. With all this said, hope you all are doing spectacular!

Recipe for the Day

2009-03-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

If you like stir fry, but are either afraid to try and make it yourself, or you don't want to get all the fancy stuff. Here is a quit simple recipe I found online. Bok Choy is a great source of vitamin C, calcium and vitamin A. Bok Choy also contains glucosinolates, which may prevent cancer. (about.com)

Ingredients

1 tablespoon canola oil
4 6-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces kosher salt and black pepper
4 heads baby bok choy, quartered lengthwise
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup store-bought barbecue sauce
4 scallions, thinly sliced

Directions

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper and cook, tossing occasionally, until browned and cooked through, 4 to 6 min. Transfer to a plate. Add the bok choy and 1/4 cup water to the skillet. Cover and cook until the bok choy is just tender, 3 to 4 min. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, barbecue sauce, and scallions. Add to the skillet and bring to a boil. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook, tossing, until heated through, 1-2 min

Helping hands

2009-03-03T10:53:00.000-08:00

If anyone feels like doing a huge service project,I need some help to get this place ready for the next tenant. It just needs a real good deep clean. Which is almost impossible by yourself with two kids. If you are interested in helping and have any fancy cleaning stuff bring it please. We'd like to be moved out by April. Let know what schedules look like. :) Thanks Shar

Lease up for grabs

2009-03-03T09:59:00.000-08:00

Ok so we finally found a house that meets our needs as a growing family. HOORAY! However we are stuck in a lease agreement as of the moment, and are afraid we will miss out on this perfect opportunity for our family. So if you know anyone who needs a place to live let us know. We want to move out by April.

5808 E Brown
Mesa, AZ 85205

Crossroads: On Brown, between Higley and Recker

$800 a month

We live in a very nice area right next to Shepherd Junior high. It has a little back porch, Community pool, eat- in kitchen. and covered parking.

2 bedrooms
2 bath
Has all major appliances
No HOA
approx. 1100 square foot.

If you would to come see it give me a call at 313-3139. If you want you can call the landlords directly. Brent or Kathy Bulloch 480-214-4041

Recipe for the Day

2009-02-26T19:29:00.000-08:00

For you more adventurous eaters, here is a recipe that is both satisfying and tasty! OH and it makes a ton.

*See notes

Jambasta

Rachael Ray

Salt
1lb Penne rigate pasta
2 tbs Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tbs butter
*1/2 lb andouille sausage, remove casing
4 cloves garlic chopped
1 pablano pepper seeded and chopped
1 red pepper seeded and chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
1 onion chopped
2 tbs flour
*1 cup beer
1 cup chicken stock
1 14oz can crushed tomatoes
2 tbs hot sauce
2 fresh thyme sprigs
*1/2 lb chicken breast chopped
*1/2 lb medium shrimp deveined, tails off
1/4 cup heavy cream

Heat a pot of water to a boil for pasta, add salt cook to al dente.

Heat deep skillet over medium high. Add Extra Virgin Olive Oil, butter, and sausage. Brown sausage 2 to 3 min. to render fat. Remove with slotted spoon. Add garlic, peppers, celery, and onion to same pot that sausage was in. Saute the veggies for 5 to 6 min. Season with salt and pepper. Add flour, and cook for 2 min more, than whisk in beer. Cook beer out, 2 min. Add chicken stock, tomatoes, hot sauce, and thyme. Bring liquid to a bubble and add chicken and shrimp. Cook 6 to 7 min. until chicken is firm and shrimp are opaque and firm. Stir to mix in cooking juices then add in cream. Ddrain pasta and add to the sauce. Top with scallions and sausage.

*Ok For starters I can never find andouille sausage and the grocery store and not really willing to go out of my way to get it when Hillshire Farms Beef Sausage works perfectly fine.
For those of you who don't feel comfortable buying beer or don't want to use it at all, I just substitue it for 1/2 cup chicken stock and it tastes great.
To save time a I usual precook the chicken and shrimp and then throw them in once it has boiled.

A break from being mommy

2009-02-25T18:21:00.000-08:00

First off, I haven't had much of a break sense Hailey was born and she just turned one! So I finally broke down and made a hair appointment. Mind you, I haven't had anything done with my hair for over a year now so I was long over due. Anyways I got there and wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do yet, because usually I just get it all chopped off when I do get it done. I knew I wanted it trimmed up. It had grown out kinda funky from the last cut. In the end I decided to get some highlights, ok make that a lot of highlights and have an inch taken off. It was so nice to just have some time to relax and not have to worry about the kids. It took four hours! I had so much foil in my hair I could get HBO. (I know you've heard that one) So anyways, It turned out fantastic and I had fun relaxing. When I got home Karie and Jon were playing Guitar Hero. Not much got cleaned in fact there was more mess. HA! Back to playing mommy again, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

Recipe for the Day

2009-02-23T19:33:00.000-08:00

You'll never want a regular rice krispie treat agian, these are awesome!

Chocolate Peanut butter Krispie Treats

2 cookie sheets sprayed with pam
12 oz box of Rice Krispies
2 cups sugar
2 cups Karo lie syrup
2 cups peanut butter
2 bags semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 bags butterscotch chips

Mix over low heat sugar, Karo syrup and peanut butter and stir until melted and creamy. Pour over rice krispies, stir tell smooth. Pour half of mix on one baking sheet and then pour the rest on the other, flatten both. In another bowl, pour all of the chips and put in the microwave for 30 sec. Repeat until melted. Pour melted chips over the top of both Krispie mixes. Put in fridge and wait until they cool.

(It makes a lot, but trust me they will go fast.)

Hailey's Birthday

2009-02-16T12:39:00.000-08:00

Hailey's Birthday turned out great! She had so much fun, opening presents and being the center of attention. She ate a good portion of her birthday cake and got a lot of really nice gifts. Thank you to all who made it possible and for everything. You're all wonderful! I'll get some pictures posted from the party soon.

Recipe for the Day

2009-02-11T18:00:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have been a bit preoccupied the past few days planning for Hailey's birthday!

Since Valentines Day is literally around the corner I decided to give you all a recipe that is satisfying, and romantic. It's one of my favorite comfort foods. :)
*(see notes below)

Shar's Spaghetti and Meatballs with cheesy baguette

For Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup italian seasoning bread crumbs
1 egg
2 tbsp shredded Parmesan Cheese plus more for serving
*7-10 saltine crackers crushed
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tbsp. soy sauce
1 can of your favorite Spaghetti Sauce (I know you all were expecting homemade)
*1 lb Spaghetti noodles
1 Baguette
Mozzarella cheese (sliced thin to fit on baguette) Plus more for serving
1 large garlic clove
Olive oil
butter

Preheat oven to 350

Bring a large sauce pan of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling add a couple pinches of salt. (Follow directions on package for Spaghetti).

For Meatballs:

While water is coming to a boil, combine first eight ingredients in a mixing bowl. Using your hands form mini meatballs. Heat a skillet on medium high. Once the pan is hot add olive oil, couple turns of the pan. (you made need a tiny bit more as you add the next batch of meatballs). Brown meatballs on all sides. They will brown quickly and will burn if you don't watch them. They take a min to two per side. As the meatballs brown, add them to a 13x9 pyrex pan and put them in the oven. The water should be boiling by this time, so go ahead and cook the noodles.

For Cheesy Baguette:

Slice the baguette at a diagonal angle to get a bit of a fancy cut. Cut the garlic clove in half. Take one of the halves of garlic and with the cut side down rub it a couple of times over each Baguette. Use the other half as needed. Then butter each baguette to your liking. Place all the baguettes on a cooking sheet. Put athin slice of Mozzarella cheese on each baguette. Put in the oven on top rack and move meatballs to bottom rack. Cook for 7min. Once there done take them out. If you want them crispier just put them back in, but keep an eye on them because if they get too crispy there impossible to eat.

Warm up your sauce

After you drain the noodles toss them lightly in olive oil. (just a drizzle) Then sprinkle with Parmesean Cheese. By this time the meatballs should be about done. So take them out and slice one open. Depending on how much pink you like in the middle, is how much longer you will need to cook them. Total though the take anywhere from 15-20 min.

Assemble your plate with noodles, sauce, meatballs, and Baguettes top with cheeses and enjoy!

*Cooks notes:

-If you want a moister meatball use a slice of bread dipped into milk, instead of crackers

-For my family we never use a whole bag of speghettie, we generally use half a bag. So if you don't like a lot of extra noodles watch how much you put in the pot.

For those of you who like pictures

2009-02-07T18:48:00.000-08:00

Kirt and Hailey goofing off

Add more to the list

2009-02-07T18:16:00.000-08:00

So I'm sitting there working on the computer and I put a movie on to calm the kids down and get them ready for bed. Well it's a bit quite and I hadn't seen Kirt zip past in awhile. So I look over and what is he doing? He is smearing yogurt all over the couch! I just cleaned it the other day too. He had his lightning Mqueen car and was just running it through the yogurt. So I decided that was it and put him down for bed early. Which I'm sure he was worn out anyways because we played outside for a good hour and half today. We pulled out his jeep and let him ride around. Then we went over to the neighbors and played some more. :) It was a fun day. (besides the yogurt part). Ha! Oh and the Chili I posted turned out ok. So if anyone has a better recipie I would like it please.

Tip/Quote for the day

2009-02-06T18:32:00.000-08:00

"In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: It goes on.
-Robert Frost

Isn't that the truth

Recipie for the Day

2009-02-06T18:29:00.000-08:00

White Bean Chili

Ingredients

1 pound dried navy beans
5 cups chicken stock
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
1 tablespoon minced garlic
3/4 cup diced onion
1 1/2 cups chopped green chiles (fresh or canned)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, finely chopped
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 to 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
Pinch red pepper flakes
1/2 bunch cilantro leaves, chopped

Directions

Rinse beans well, cover with cool water, and soak for 2 hours. Drain. Place beans in large pot with chicken stock and bring to a boil over high heat. In a saucepan, heat butter over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, and chiles and saute for 5 minutes. Add chile mixture to pot with beans. Add chicken, cumin, oregano, pepper, white pepper, red pepper flakes, and cilantro. Lower heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 1 1/2 hours. Serve with cornbread, if desired.

by Paula Deen

Busy Day

2009-02-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

Today I worked a ton on my site. So Check it out :) http://www.delicatedelightful.com/. Hailey cut her other hand today on a razor. She has managed to do more damaged to herself, than Kirt has before the age of one. She is ok, she just has to bandage hands at the moment. (All sharp things are put up and out of reach for sure now.) After the hectic morning I helped Sara put together some book marks for new beginnings. So for dinner we are trying something new. I'll go ahead and post it for now, but if it turns out bad I'll take it off.

Recipe for the Day

2009-02-05T20:25:00.000-08:00

Taco soup

I love this one because it's all in on pot, quick, easy, and YUMMY!

1 lb ground beef
2 cans ranch style beans
1 cup frozen corn
1 can fire roasted tomatoes
1pkg taco seasoning
1pk ranch seasoning

Brown Ground beef in a large sauce pan. Add the rest of the ingredients. Bring to a bubble. Serve with chips, cheese, and sour cream.

Recipe for the Day

2009-02-04T17:05:00.000-08:00

Sour Cream Cinnamon Buns

(I know it sounds gross, but give um a chance a they are awesome!)

1 8 oz carton sour cream
2 tbsp butter
3 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp baking soda
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 package active dry yeast
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp buttered softened
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 1/2 cups sifted pwered sugar
2 tbsp milk

-Heat sour cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat to 105 to 115 degrees.
-Combine warm sour cream, 2 tbsp butter, 3 tablsp sugar, salt, and baking soda in a large mixing bowl. Add egg and yeast; blend well. Add 1 1/2 cups flour; beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until well blended. Gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead lightly 4 to 5 times. Cover and let rest 5 minutes.
-Roll dough into an 18x 6 inch rectangle; spread 2 tbsp softened butter over dough. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over dough. Roll up dough, starting at long side, pressing firm to eliminate air pockets pinch seam to seal.
-Slice roll into 12 (1 1/2 inch slices. Place sliced side down, in greased muffin pans. Cover and let rise in a warm place 85degrees, free from drafts, 30 minutes or until doubled in bulk.
- Bake at 375 for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden. Remove buns from pan immediately. Combine powdered sugar and milk then drizzle with Powdered sugar mix.

For added flavor add 2 to 3 fresh orange juice or lemon juice to Powdered sugar mix instead of milk

to slice the dough with ease, use a long thread. Place under dough and pull crosswise. Pull all the way through. ENJOY!

Sorry they were eaten before I could get a pic of the finished product

Much better

2009-02-04T16:25:00.001-08:00

So today went a lot better then yesterday. I took Hailey to see her pediatrician and they agreed that the cut should have been stitched, but since it wasn't she'll just have to have it heal the long way and I'll have to keep it clean and put medicine on it and all that jazz. Oh and they gave her a tetanus shot.

While we were waiting to be seen, I put Hailey down and she started to walk all by herself. Not just a few steps, she went far like a few feet. Kirt started walking just before he turned one as well.

I spent the rest of the afternoon working on taxes. Which will have to be continued tomorrow....

On a more fun note Kirt and I made cinnamon rolls. So that can be the recipe for the day

Tip/Quote for the day

2009-02-03T21:07:00.000-08:00

"There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage"
-Martin Luther

Striving for a good marriage that will last through eternity is worth getting through all trials along the way. :) At times some or all us feel like giving up or we find ourselves struggling to get along with our spouse. Well I have found that I set the mood of my home. When I'm happy and loving, Jon is more likely to feel that way, but if I'm negative or down on myself I find everyone on edge. Now our marriage is no where near perfect. We have so many challenges we are facing at this moment in time, but I know with prayer and faith we can overcome anything.

Another Happy couple :)

2009-02-03T20:54:00.000-08:00

She just loves playing with Kirt.

2009-02-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

It usually doesn't last long before he desides to hope out. Poor Hailey is stuck.

Just haven some fun

2009-02-03T20:50:00.001-08:00

Kirt loves to get in the crib with Hailey and jump

Recipe for the Day

2009-02-03T20:40:00.000-08:00

For all those who know me real well, know that I love Mexican food. Well I came across this recipe awhile back and I just love it. Granted, it takes a bit of prep, but it has fantastic flavor, you gotta try it. :)

Easy Chicken Mojo Burritos

Ingredients

Mojo Sauce:

4 garlic cloves
2 serrano chilies, seeds removed
1 large handful fresh cilantro leaves
2 limes
Juice 1 orange
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
8 large flour tortillas
1 (3 to 4 pound) whole roasted chicken, shredded
Yellow Rice, recipe follows
Spicy Black beans, recipe follows
2 avocados chopped
1 cup grated queso blanco or Monterey jack cheese
Sour cream, for garnish
Cilantro leaves, for garnish
Lime wedges, for garnish

Directions

Make the Mojo Sauce: Put the garlic, chilies, cilantro, lime juice, orange juice, and olive oil into a blender and process until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

To make the burritos: Warm the tortillas for 30 seconds in a dry skillet or on the grill until pliable. Place some chicken down the center of a tortilla and top with rice and beans, avocado, grated cheese, and Mojo Sauce. Roll up the burrito and serve topped with a generous drizzle of sour cream; garnish with cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice.

Yellow Rice:

2 cups long-grain rice

4 cups water

2 cloves garlic, smashed

1 teaspoon turmeric

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 bay leaf

Put all the ingredients into a heavy bottomed pot, stir well, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook over low heat until the rice has absorbed the water, about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Discard the garlic and bay leaf, fluff with a fork, and serve.

Yield: 8 servings

Spicy Black Beans:

2 cups (about 1 pound) dried black beans, picked over and rinsed

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

1 jalapeno pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 bay leaf

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Quick soak the beans: Put beans in a pot and cover with water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let soak for 1 hour. Drain the beans.

In the same pot, heat the olive oil. Add the onion, jalapeno pepper, garlic, and bay leaf and cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the beans and cover with water by about 1 inch. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Taste the beans and season them with salt and pepper.

Yield: 8 servings

Just one of those days

2009-02-03T20:21:00.001-08:00

So today started out like any other, I got the kids breakfast, got everyone cleaned up, and then put on a movie so I could clean the kitchen. Well it just so happens that Kirt decides to spill some beads on the floor. ( I know I should have had them up). Anyways some roll under the couch and Hailey goes after a them. Right as she does that she starts crying. I pull her hands up and blood is gushing from her finger.

On super bowl Sunday While Jon was watching the game, I was watching kids, and moments before he got home Kirt dropped a glass jar on the ground. Of course it shattered. So I begin cleaning it up all the while trying to keep Kirt and Hailey out of it.

Well As soon as I saw the blood I knew I missed some glass. So I ran over and grab a paper towel to put some pressure on it and stop the bleeding. After a min it's still bleeding and I'm freaking out at this point because my phone was turned off. So went and payed it to get it turned back on. I call Karie over to have her take me to ER. By the time she gets to my house I got the bleeding to stop. Then we proceed to take her to the doctor. They had her soak her hand to clean it all out. Then as the doctor examined it he said he was just going to glue it close, but then for some reason he decided to use a special glue strip instead. I was kinda iffy when he pulled it out, because I knew Hailey would just tear it off the first second she got. Of course, I didn't say anything. Well we get discharged and Karie drops us off at home and what does she do. She tears the everything off. So now I have to take her back in tomorrow so get everything closed back up so it can heal properly. I'm glad she is ok though. I think she handled it a lot better then I did.

Under the weather

2009-02-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

I must have caught something because I feel terrible today. I coughed all night last night and I'm congested. I literally only have two weeks left before Hailey's birthday and I am in no way ready. I'm still trying to get her dress done. I almost done with it I just need to stitch the last finishing touches onto it. Then I need to get her invites out. So on top of all this I am sick and Jon is working late tonight because he has a conference call.

So if you would like to come to Hailey's birthday it will be on Feb, 14th at 12-3pm at Grandma Sessions House. (if you don't get the invite in time) If you have questions call :)

Tip/Quote for the day

2009-02-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

Sorry I missed adding this yesterday so I'll give two little tidbits.
#1
"When you reach the end of your rope,
tie a knot in it and hang on."
-Thomas Jefferson

I'll feel like I'm at the end of my rope these days, but I continue to push forward, and prayer for better days. Not just for me, but for all my family and friends. It's rough for everyone and there is always some one out there with a more difficult situation. With that said If we try to focus on helping others it allows it puts qualms at ease.

#2
And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn ^wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God

Mosiah 2:17

Recipe for the Day

2009-02-01T18:22:00.000-08:00

As you can see Jon and Kirt helped. (they tested the dough)

Cowboy Cookies

Ingredients

vegetable oil cooking spray
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
8 ounces (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup light-brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
6 ounces semisweet chocolate, cut inoh1/4 inch chunks (1 cup)
3 ounces (3/4 cup) pecan halves
1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut

Directions

Preheat oven to 350. Coat baking sheets with cooking spray, line with parchment paper, and spray parchment. Sift flour, bakng soda, salt, and baking powder into a medium bowl. Beat butter and sugars with a mixer on medium-high until pale and creamy, about 3 minutes. Reduce speed to medium. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Reduce speed to low, and slowly add flour mixture, beating until just incorporated. Beat in oats, chocolate, pecans, and coconut until combined. (Dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days) Using a 1 1/2 inch ice cream scoop or a small spoon, drop dough onto baking sheets, spacing 3 inches apart. Bake until edges of cookies begin to brown, 11 to 13 min. Transfer baking sheets to wire rack, and let cool for 5 min

Side note: I cooked some cookies for 11 min and that was a bit long, at least for my oven. So I would start at ten and if it needs more then add a little more, I find though if you cook them from 9- 10 min then they are softer later :)

Super Bowl Sunday

2009-02-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

Did everyone enjoy the Super Bowl?! I wouldn't know, I didn't watch. Jon of course is watching it as I'm writing this. He is at the neighbors. I didn't feel like taking the kids over. I know they would get too rambunctious. So I put my creativity skills too the test and made something a little different for dinner. I'll post the recipe in a bit. Anyways It was a pleasant Sunday. I just got released from nursery last week so I was able to go to relief society. It's been a year and a half! I saw new faces, and old faces. :) Well my new calling is Stake Sports director. HA! Go figure. I'm not the most athletic type, but I'm grateful for the opportunity. So our first game is This Tuesday. I know exciting right? Well I'm excited. Oh I almost forgot I only got one person to sign up. Not a lot of people enjoy volleyball, I'm realizing. It's fun though you just got to give it a chance and I'm really not the best at it, but it's fun to laugh and hit the ball into another court. (Not on purpose of course) Plus its fun to get to know the sisters.
So I guess for this week we'll just have to see who shows up. Next week I'm going to try another pitch. Maybe offer treats and have a babysitter for all the kids. (Then that can't be an excuse he he) If anyone has any suggestions for making Womens volleyball sound like a blast let me know.

Tip/Quote for the day

2009-01-31T15:09:00.000-08:00

I'd like to be the sort of friend that you have been to me
I'd like to be the help that you've been always glad to be;
I'd like to mean as much to you each minute of the day
As you have meant, old friend of mine, to me along the way

*Edgar A. Guest*

Recipie for the Day

2009-01-31T14:45:00.000-08:00

For those of you who like turkey, bacon, and melted cheese this one is for you!

Monte Cristo Club

Ingredients

8 slices peppered bacon
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup applesauce, plus more for serving
4 slices red, orange or yellow tomato
salt and pepper
8 slices white or whole wheat bread
8 slices sharp white cheddar cheese
1 lb deli-sliced turkey or smoked turkey
1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk or half and half
2 tablespoons butter

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375. Broil the bacon on a rack set on a baking sheet. Bake until crisp, 15 to 20 min. Meanwhile, mix together the maple syrup and applesauce. Season the tomato slices with salt and pepper. Assembly 4 sammies with bread, cheese, turkey, spinach, bacon, tomato, more cheese and bread; press slightly. In a shallow dish, beat the eggs with the milk,=. in a large skillet,, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Coat each Sammie withe the egg mixture, then add to the skillet and cook, turning once, until deeply golden, about 7 minuses. Cut the sammies and serve witht he applesauce.

Provided by Rachael Ray

Family Time!

2009-01-31T10:48:00.000-08:00

Today we all got up early to go help Jon's parents dig some holes to plant some citrus trees. Hailey and I played inside while Jon and Kirt dug. Well that isn't entirely accurate, Jon dug and Kirt jumped in the hole. He was having too much playing in the dirt. Once we got all five trees planted we headed for home.

Jon then suggested that we go play tennis. We haven't played in awhile so we loaded up the kids and walked over to the tennis court. Hailey sat in the stroller and ate snacks and Kirt ran around the court throwing balls. He got a kick out Jon and I hit the ball. Jon and I were really out of practice, but it was nice to do out of the ordinary. We played for about 30 min. They we raced back to the house. Jon was pushing the stroller, and Hailey and Kirt laughed because we were running. Jon will claim he won, but just between the us, I did. Course I did have the advantage. He he.

Jon & Shar

2009-01-31T10:29:00.000-08:00

As many of you know Jon manages the Hollywood Video on Thunderbird and 44th. He has been very successful and now they would like him to transfer and run a different store, in need of his dedication and hard work. He puts in 45 plus hours a week, and I rarely see him. The store that they want to move him to is farther out. So that leaves us only a couple of options move out there or, move out there. Ok so there isn't much choice in the matter unless we want to be paying ourselves to go to work. So we will now be looking for homes over in that area. I'm not excited to be moving farther away from everyone, but I'm trying to look at the positives. They are going to give him a pay raise and hopefully we will find something a bit bigger than what we have now. We are getting a little cramped here. However we are going to do whats in our means.

So in a nutshell, Jon works, sleeps, and watches movies.

Now me on the other hand stay at home and take care of Kirt and Hailey. I enjoy cooking, baking, crafting of any sort, and Playing with Kirt and Hailey. Some of you may know the circumstances our family is in and some of you may not, but at any rate we are doing the best we can to just try and be happy. Jon and I are working on being as family oriented as possible. We try to do fun family activities, and when the rare occasion permits itself we spend time together.

I've been working on getting my jeweling up and going. I know that the economy is hurting right now, but I just hope that maybe we'll break out of it. I really enjoy creating and working with my hands. I am also working at a day care. (very part time) Just to help us out. I wish I could do more and get a better job, but it would require Kirt and Hailey going to a babysitter, and then me forking out half my check for it. Plus we only have one car. It's like we are in a deadlock. I'm sure that things will get better. We just have to keep positive.

For of you would like to look at my products or help me get my name out there, my site is www.delicatedelightful.com

Recipie for the Day

2009-01-30T15:47:00.000-08:00

This is a fun recipe that you and your children can do together. Kirt likes to pour the ingredients into the bowl after I've measured. Then we take turns mixing.

And sometimes for a little extra sugar we add chocolate chips. (ok you caught me- all the time)

Dads homemade Pancakes
Ingredients

* 1 cup flour
* 1 tbsp. baking powder
* 1/2 tsp. baking soda
* 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
* 3 tbsp. sugar
* 1 cup milk
* 1 egg
* 1/2 tsp. salt

Directions

Combine dry ingredients. Add milk, egg and oil. Mix until smooth. Heat non-stick pan over medium heat until water beads. Do not oil. Pour pancake mixture in 1/4 cup amounts. Turn when tops are covered with bubbles and edges look cooked. Remove from heat when pancake stops steaming.

Provided by cooks.com http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,164,158188-253200,00.html

Tip/Quote for the day

2009-01-30T15:40:00.000-08:00

Children love to help their parents out and even though sometimes the help is unwanted try finding an everyday activity that they could help you do. This will motivate them to help you more in the future. :)

Hailey Lyn Sessions

2009-01-30T15:11:00.000-08:00

Hailey is almost one. She was born on February 16th 2008. She has the bluest eyes you will ever see, and light brown hair. Her skin is like rose petals.

Hailey is the sweetest the little girl, she is already full of personality. She is starting to walk, although she still prefers to crawl. She can go up the stairs. (not my favorite thing about her) Anyways. She is high spirited and very blissful. She rarely cries, and likes to laugh and play with Kirt. She is very vocal and expresses her self by shaking her hands up rapidly and squealing all the while. When smacks her lips when she gives kisses. When she wants to be held she just holds her arms up and puts on a irresistible grin. one unique characteristic about her is that she has a rather large strawberry on her head. We are hoping that it will go away over time or her hair will cover it,but we will love her just the same.

When it comes to eating Hailey is exactly the opposite of Kirt. She is a big eater. She will eat her portion and Kirts. Many would say she gets her appetite from me, but I would have to say that the Sessions have quite the appetite as well.

Chef Kirt

2009-01-30T14:33:00.001-08:00

Just the other night I was making hamburgers, and Kirt came in and decided to help. I had them all seasoned and had just filped them over to cook the other side. Then I went to go check on Hailey. As soon as I left the kitchen Kirt starts pushing a chair over to the counter. So I head back to the kitchen and by that time it was too late. Kirt had grab the garlic powder and started dumping. I was expecting to find the pan filled with powder, but to my surprise he had sprinkled each hamburger with a tiny bit a garlic poweder just as I would have if I was seasoning them. I just laughed. My little chef.

It's amazing how much they watch and absorb what you do.

Kirt Lee Sessions

2009-01-30T13:34:00.000-08:00

Oh Kirt. He is two and 1/2 years old, born on July 31th 2006. He has blue eyes blonde hair, and fair skin, which he gets from the whites side. HA!
You could fill a book of info about Kirt and you would barely cover it all. Many who have met Kirt would all agree that he is busy and very curious. (Such a boy) He is very inquisitive and loves to help me with everything, (I mean every little thing) whether it be helping me take the laundry out of the dryer or helping me with dinner. He is always testing my patience, Every so often I will wake up to find some mess that Kirt has made while both Jon and I are sound asleep. I can never take my eyes off him for a fraction of a second he finds something to get into. Here is just a list of things I have had to clean up: (all under the age of 3)

Cornstarch, Flour, Oats, Milk, Juice, soda, a whole bottle of bleach, nail polish, and nail polish remover, toothpaste, makeup, Mac and cheese, ect,.... the list goes on.

Now I know what some of you are thinking, why don't have child looks and stuff put in high places and how did he get some of that stuff open? In my defense I do have such items, locks, and what not to keep him out. However Kirt learned a very young age on how to open things and find his way around locks. I was so excited the first time he could turn a lid and twist off caps, what is didn't realize was the consequences I would face later on for it. He was only a little over one when he started to open stuff. He would take the bottle lids off, and whatever had a lid to challenge his new found capability to open.

Anyways, the stuff parents never tell you about having your own kids or what they dealt with when you were a child can be down right grotesque. I don't feel the need to go into any gory details however I will say be prepared for anything a child can dish out no matter what end it comes out of.

As of today Kirt is growing ever taller and leaner. He is so picky and I feel this is pay back for the torture I put my mom threw when I was a kid. We are working on potty training and he is doing pretty well. We just need to work on over night, but that is going to take some extra work on our part. I would like to start in a couple of months. I would like to make sure he is ready. He is starting to talk more even though half of the time you can't understand a word out of his mouth. Rest assured I am continually working with him and prompting him "use his words". Which brings me to another good point, when he gets upset and starts throwing a few, I say use your words, try to tell me what you need. Granted it takes a bit for him to register what I'm saying over his own screaming, but he is getting better at it. He will stop and try to say what he wants. Now whether I say no or yes decided if the fit continues or ceases. He usually wants a snack or a drink. Overall though I would have to say that I am thankful for him he truly is a choice spirit of our Heavenly Father.