Birthday

How nice that my kids were in such a good mood on my birthday. Really, that's all I wanted; no crying fits, diaper blowouts or waking up early from naps. I got my wish, and that made it a great day. :)

4 Wonderful Years

Two job changes, four moves, our first house, two beautiful children, one miscarriage, a new business, a year of teaching seminary, lots of sleep deprivation, and lots and lots of smiles, laughter and love.

I can't think of anyone I would have rather spent these last four years with. You are strong and steadfast and the most unselfish person I know. And you put up with a wife who is stubborn, can't cook, makes you late to church and has horrible baby blues. You have put meaning and happiness into my life; I love you!

More funny lines from Dallin...

1. Today I was sitting with Evie in my lap and she started sucking on my sleeve. Dallin ran up to her, tried to pull her off and said, "No no Evie! Don't eat your mama! Here!" and he shoved a pacifier in her mouth (she doesn't even take pacifiers).

2. I took Dallin upstairs for his nap today and we went in my room to get his blanket, which happened to be on our bed, right next to his favorite toy (a backhoe). When he saw it, he said "Oh there you are! Oh beautiful digger! Ohhhh, beautiful digger." Wow.

3. Jason and I were having a "discussion" yesterday (I wouldn't really call it an argument), but Dallin must have picked up on the tone of the conversation because after Jason left the room he said, "Mama, Daddy a need a go a time-out." I had to laugh because he was so serious! :)

4. Yesterday I came downstairs all ready for church and Dallin looked me over and said "Mama, you're looking sharp!"

Obsession

I haven't really posted for a while and this is why. On Sunday I got the first two Twilight books as an early birthday present (Thanks Josh & Teri and G & G Nartker!). I started the first one Sunday night and was finished with the second one on Wednesday night. This is what we call an 'obsessive reader' folks. (I did the same thing with the Work and the Glory series). I was going to take a picture of what my house and kids looked like after those three days, but I decided I was a little too embarrassed. At least the kids were fed, and diapers changed. The house was chaos though- toys and books everywhere, dirty laundry, chairs turned over, and a stack of dishes two feet high. But I am happy to report that I have taken a break, and I will wait at least five days before I run to the bookstore to get the third book!

My sweet Dallin

Today (and pretty much this whole week) I have been a little stressed and tired because Evelyn has been crying constantly and waking up in the middle of the night again. But my Dallin never ceases to keep a smile on my face. Here is a conversation that we had today while Dallin was at the kitchen table:

I walk in the room visibly stressed about Evie.

Dallin: looks at me for about 5 seconds and says, "Hi!"
Me: (distracted) "Hi"
Dallin: (still looking right at me) "How are you?"
Me: "I'm good."
Dallin: (still looking) "Are you happy?"
Me: At this point I realize that he is really concerned about me so I smile and say "Yes, I'm happy" and give him a big hug.
Dallin: pats my back and with a huge grin says, "Hot mama!", which is something that his Dad taught him to say and that he knows will make me laugh :)

I thought it was sweet that he was trying so hard to cheer me up. Dallin is definitely the 'Rose' of our family. (When we were growing up my sister Rose was always asking my mom if she was happy or sad, and was always so sensitive to other people's feelings). I am so grateful for my children!