The Deans

Steak

2012-02-14T11:47:00.000-08:00

For my Valentine...

If only we lived closer to the best steak in the whole world...

I would buy it for you.

The whole 40 dollars worth of it.

Love you.

Twenty-Six

2012-02-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

I woke up feeling very reflective today. I couldn't stop thinking about all the reasons I am so glad I made it to my 26th birthday. Life is wonderful with all of you to celebrate with. Here's to lots more memories and celebrations. Love you!

I went through lots and lots of pictures and I know I missed some good ones. But you know who you are :)

Wednesday

2012-01-18T13:23:00.000-08:00

4:13 pm

We had the whole day to ourselves. Spent it doing playdough, going to story time, napping, making these yummy animal crackers, doing laundry, and drinking chocolate milk! Jacob instituted chocolate milk Wednesdays after the kids got Nesquik in their stockings for Christmas...a fun thing to look forward to in the middle of the week :)

On the agenda for the evening: Thai Peanut Noodles, more laundry, and reading The Holy Secret

Eating

2012-01-17T16:56:00.000-08:00

This has nothing to do with the post, pretty cute kids on our fun weekend trip.

Breakfast: Steamed egg with salt and pepper, carrot, grapefruit ginger whole juice, and a small bowl of quinoa with pat of butter, cinnamon, and honey.

Lunch: 3 grain salad, tortilla chips and Greek yogurt jalapeno dip (from Costco....yum!)

Dinner: 20 dollar chickpea Mediterranean burger, sweet potato fries, and fresh pineapple.

Treats/Snacks: Blueberry, almond, pumpkin seed, and sunflower seed trailmix, power foods smoothie.

The whole halfsies thing is working out wonderfully! I am loving all of the recipes from the 28 day challenge still and can't wait to try the rest of them. I am learning more and more about how much food my body actually needs. I get so full these days and I don't feel like I am eating that much. My tummy shrunk so much with the first couple of weeks. I have had a few real treats here and there... definitely not worth it. Well, Graeter's ice cream was :) Okay so was the Raspberry Bliss pie, but I only had a few bites of that. Still, overall feeling great about what the challenge has done for me!

Halfsies

2012-01-11T07:11:00.000-08:00

Already?? This little dude is WAY too interested in going in the potty. I go back and forth with wanting to potty train him and take the diapers away cold turkey... but it was so hard with little Luci. I just don't know if he's totally ready yet. So, we're going halfsies. He goes when he wants to. Maybe in a month or two we will get down to business. (Oh and please notice the wonderful new bathroom floor that Jacob surprised me with while I was in Utah. It is so fabulous!)

I am also going halfsies on the 21 day clean eating challenge. I went pretty hard core the first week but I had to add in Lentils on Thursday. I was losing weight and feeling a bit light headed... It was no fun while chasing the kiddo's around. I felt MUCH better! The challenge completely served the purpose that I was hoping it would. I am excited about cooking and trying new things, especially vegetables! I hardly ever crave sugar. I realized that I actually eat a lot better than I was giving myself credit for, and I realized that I can listen to my body and that I don't have to follow all the rules just because. I needed that lesson in a lot of areas :) So, I made it a tailored eating challenge, and I love it! Here's to two and a half more weeks...

Starting

2012-01-03T11:17:00.000-08:00

As of yesterday I started the Whole Living 21 day clean eating challenge. I am really loving it. The first week is a cleanse week and, compared to a pretty much unbearable leek soup cleanse which I miraculously completed in my college days, this one is awesome! This is for a lot of reasons. First of all, I have truly been in some kind of funk for the past month and a half when it comes to a lot of things. The biggest one has been food though. I have had no motivation to plan or prepare anything especially not wholesome things. SO WEIRD. I think it is because I have been thinking about it all way too much. By "it" I mean all the different ideas about food culture, local food, chemicals in food, seasonal foods, eating meat sparingly, whole dairy vs. processed, organic, cage free, grass fed.... blah blah blah. There were too many factors, and I just don't have any experience in cooking like that. Don't get me wrong, I want desperately to figure it all out and apply it to my family... but it is hard!

SO, this challenge 1) came at the perfect time, since I stuffed myself silly pretty much everyday over the holidays and I was feelin' dirty, 2) a lot of the foods that I was having a hard time choosing are cut out, 3) all the recipes are laid out for me, and 4) they really are simple and the flavors are yummy and surprisingly satisfying!

Of course there are still a few things I am craving, but they aren't the things I would expect. I just really want some tortilla chips... good, salty, crunchy tortilla chips.

So, I am starting strong and funk free. Waking up early, doing yoga, and eating clean. I know I know what Jacob is thinking... "she is such a hippie!" Bring it :) I love having a fridge stuffed with produce and knowing exactly what I'm going to do with it.

Elijah getting ready to try his 'clean' dinner.

Steamed Broccoli and Squash with Tahini Sauce

2011-12-29T15:26:00.000-08:00

We thought that printing 50 of these babies would be plenty... It was definitely our first time Christmas Carding. We got through our immediate families, aunts and uncles, and that was pretty much it. So, to all of you that we love, we hope you had a joyous season celebrating our Savior and hope that you will continue to feel his precious love for you each day.

Gettin Jiggy W/it

2011-12-09T10:54:00.001-08:00

Do some dancin' this weekend! Elijah will be...

Sad

2011-11-29T17:06:00.001-08:00

My conversation with Eli before bed tonight went something like this...

"Mommy... Sad"
"Nope, mommy's not sad"
"Mommy... Sad"
"Are you sad buddy?"
"Shane, sad. Nenul, sad. Wessie, sad. Zoey, sad. Pop-pop, sad. Nana, sad. Goosey, sad. Allll, sad."
"Oh, do you miss Shane, and Kendal, and Westie, and Zoey, and..."
... exaggerated head nod from Eli...
"Here, coming, Shane"
...exaggerated head nod from Eli...
So... even though Elijah may have clung to me the entire trip to Utah, it turns out he pretty much can't stop thinking about everyone there. So, thanks for having us. The weddings were beautiful, my kids loved every minute. And as for me... I want another honeymoon for me! (Maybe to Hawaii, Santa?")

I'm sad I didn't get any pics of Sambo...

Chocolate Cake... You Know You Want It

2011-11-27T17:18:00.001-08:00

This is my Grandmother... most of you have tasted her amazing award winning chocolate cake. I know I have dreamed it would magically appear on my doorstep. Guess what? It did! And you can have some too! I am happy to announce that Magleby's is hoping to be able to ship this cake all over the nation. Want to help them get started? It would mean the world to us.

On kickstarter.com you can pleadge just a little bit and get a whole lot of chocolate cake for your money, and help us spread the love! Will you do it?? And tell all your friends too... We only have until December 2nd.

Love You!!!

Danielle

A Sunshiny Day

2011-11-08T11:47:00.000-08:00

I cannot get enough of the amazing fall that we are having. Just when I feel like it can't possibly stay warm another day, it does! The colors are bright, and the sunshine just makes me happy. I am seriously trying to talk Jacob into buying us one of those alarm clocks that wakes you up with light that slowly get's brighter... like the sun. Wouldn't that be awesome?? On one of those dark dreary winter mornings? Speaking of dreary winter days... I am putting together a box of tricks that will make us happy inside our house when I don't want to brave the icy roads. Do you have any suggestions? What keeps you sane in the winter?

Here are some highlights from our long weekend...

Luci was really excited about her grey hand-me-down sweat pants because, "they are just like daddy's!" so she had him dress up too.

Um, check out those guns... okay maybe you should just let me do that ;)

The reason for our long weekend.

We had a pretty fun date night too. Who knew Hockey was so much fun to watch??

Halloween and a Recipe

2011-11-02T05:36:00.000-07:00

Halloween was pretty fun this year. As we speak they are playing with their candy. We don't eat it, we just do pretty much anything else you can think of with it. Art projects, towers, form letters, count, give to friends, bake into brownies... I am learning that Elijah is not as good at not eating it as Luci though. He is choc-o-holic for sure. It's so hard to say no to him though, and he is so good at opening the stuff and shoveling it before I even notice. Pretty darn cute.

And for the recipe...

Coconut Molasses Granola

This stuff is delicious over yogurt, drowned in whole fresh milk, on top of a pumpkin milkshake, and especially on vanilla ice cream. It's also great to give as a gift! I've been baking it for 3 years now since my friend Nicol shared it with me. It is a huge batch and usually lasts us the whole fall season. We like to bake it extra long so it is nice and crunchy. Thanks Nicol!

10c. old-fashioned oats

1c. wheat germ

*8oz. shredded coconut

3c. chopped almonds, pecans,

walnuts, or a combination

1½ c. packed brown sugar

1½ c. water

1½ c. cooking oil

½c. honey

½c. molasses (regular or blackstrap)

1½ tsp. salt

2tsp. cinnamon

¼tsp. almond extract

3tsp. vanilla

Preheatoven to 300. In a very large bowl or two large bowls, combineoats, wheat germ, coconut, nuts, and any optional ingredients – except raisinsor dried fruit, you can toss these in before eating. In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, water,oil, honey, molasses, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla. Heat until sugar is dissolved, but don'tboil. Pour syrup over dry ingredientsand mix until well coated.

Spreadinto five 9x13” baking pans or 2 cookie sheets with sides. Bake 20 to 30 minutes, stirringoccasionally. Bake 15-30 minutes longer forcrunchier granola. Store in airtightcontainers, I use oatmeal boxes. Good for up to sixmonths. Makes about 20 cups.

*(Iuse unsweetened, but any regular store brand is yummy too.)

**Other optional ingredients = sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, flax, quinoa, wheatbran,

raisins, dates, other dried fruits

My Girls

2011-11-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

So I got spoiled a couple of weekends ago. Oh it was a much needed and enjoyed trip. Jacob and the kiddo's stayed home to have the best daddy weekend ever while I got some girl time. Sometimes in the craziness of life do you ever forget who you are?? Well I was starting to wonder who was under all the layers of bread dough, princess costumes, truck noises, zoo trips, pony tails, laundry detergent, and peanut butter and jelly. All wonderful things by the way. But before I had the privilege of being a part of this married with kids life I had a most life changing and defining experience. I went on a semester abroad with BYU to Italy for 6 months with these girls and many others. Just being with them again in one of the world's greatest cities was such a good reminder of the bigger picture that I saw then. The goals I was working towards... (okay anyone who knows me knows that they were mainly to find a certain someone and get some little stickies, ha ha. ) It was so relaxing and FUN! We saw some sights, ate lots of good food, bought a new purse(!) had some girl talk (well, girl + Branden talk :) Thank you!! I can't wait to see you again!

Esquire

2011-10-28T10:04:00.000-07:00

Yes folks, that's right. My hubby passed the Bar!
I knew you would do it babe.
I love this pic because you can't even tell that Luci is sitting next to him :)

Changing

2011-10-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

The seasons are changing. The harvest is pretty much over. I am sure going to miss looking out my window to see this... The kids chowing down on all the goodies out there, and Luci running in with a handful of basil every night for dinner. I am also going to miss the sunshine, the endless hours of playing in the sandbox without a word, the barbeques, the last minute picnics, the pool, all that great stuff.

We've been inside the last week or two feeling pretty dumpy. That happens with the seasons changing too. Poor little guy got croup. Man is that a scary sounding cough or what? I was ready to jump in the car at 5am and take him to the hospital before Jacob calmed me down. I was so grateful for steamy water that morning and the following sleepless night. Poor guy. Then Luci lost her voice and caught a fever too. Can I just say though that I am the luckiest mom on earth. These little sickies have been the sweetest cuddliest things ever. I was surprised at how well we did being cooped up for so long. Usually I am the one going crazy... But this time was different. I think it's because of all the simplifying I've been trying to do lately. I was okay with staying home, reading tons of books, watching shows, and eating popcorn for dinner. We even went to the mall and got frozen yogurt for dinner one night. That night the kiddo's were in bed by 5 and slept the whole night.

Hallelujah.

I also know that I have felt strengthened by Heavenly Father's hand in my life. Slowing down can sometimes make things seem harder. We have to clean up more messes around the house, I have to actually play and pretend and answer questions. Being busy makes for rushed conversations, hoping for other things to entertain the kids, and shushing kids a lot. But with a lot of prayer and pleading I have come to really enjoy spending down time with the kids. I have also made some real progress with keeping my home in order. Some of that stuff is hard to admit... because I do and I always did love being a mother and homemaker. I'm just a lot more comfortable now to really be a stay at home mom. I know that there is power in truly being intentional about these things. Focusing on my purpose at this time in my life and striving to be the best at it in the simplest ways has truly been changing me in ways I never imagined.

Some Luci-isms:

Luci and Jacob were pulling at a wishbone, she got the bigger end...

Jacob: "Make a wish! You got it"
Luci: "I wish daddy's glasses were pretty"

Jacob and Luci were at the store. She told jacob about a cut on her thumb that kept on opening up and hurting. "It really hurts daddy. But, it will be better in the ressurection."

Elijah-isms:

"Joocie" for Luci
"Pah-yeh" for Potty. He is constantly holding his diaper and running in there yelling, "POO POO!"
"Weh-ah-yew" all one word for where are you. Mostly talking about daddy. "Dada ohme?"

So Big! Mashing applesauce with Pa Paw.

Fingerlickin'

2011-09-26T12:02:00.001-07:00

Cookie Dough Dip, and more!

School

2011-09-23T11:20:00.000-07:00

Luci started Joy School a few weeks ago. She loves it! Although, we can't get much out of her as to why. She usually briefs us on the most exciting parts of the day, "I had a snack, and I played..." We know she loves it because she is always anticipating school days. She goes twice a week for two and a half hours. I didn't know it until the first day, but I do not like letting her go! It was a big eye opener to me of how fast they really do grow up. Elijah and I miss her so much while she's gone. Okay, maybe just I do. Elijah actually loves the one-on-one time. He has really let loose on his little banter, especially in the car. It's amazing how much he's started talking the last few weeks. My faves are: Sa-sha (salsa), Bwe-py (breakfast), och (ouch, also means knife), meh (amen), pop-pop (for my dad, and popcorn). It's so fun to have baby talk around, we didn't get much of that with Luci-- just full sentences, and lots and lots of questions :)

Speaking of school! Jacob and I came upon this the other day. They are free independent study classes from BYU. I want to take ALL of them!! Especially the gardening ones, the family life ones, and the math ones... yes I really need help in that area...

Remember the days when painting with pudding were "educational"...

("Mwah-ha-ha joy school is so amazing" )

One of the few strawberries from our garden this year

Dried peaches, canned peaches, peach sa-sha, peach cheesecake... we love peaches!

(This one is for Pop Pop, this is how Elijah smiles... )

And this is his facial expression for pretty much everything... whoa

Go Cougs!

2011-09-02T10:41:00.001-07:00

We're Celebrating in Blue this weekend... Why???

Cougar Football Starts Tomorrow People!

I'm usually not one to get super duper excited about football,
but I do like making pretty things... Especially when they are for my handsome husband

Blueberry Cupcakes from here
Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting from here

I am definitely making these again!

yummy yummy!

Little Bunny Foo Foo

2011-08-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

For some reason this little girl loves to bop her little brother on the head. Jacob and I decided it must be some kind of fascination with the baldness. Not only does she love to bop it but she has also been caught dumping sand on it, soaking it with air freshener, rubbing chap-stick all over it, coloring it with crayons, covering it in stickers... etc. She has been so into pestering him lately! Poor little buddy. She does love the little stud though. And he loves her. She loves to sit with him and read him books. He loves to play with her hair. They love picking things out of the garden and eating them together. Curiously enough their most picked and eaten item... basil leaves. It would be tomatoes if those blasted squirrels would stop stealing them!

Ahh.

2011-08-10T13:06:00.000-07:00

(Photo by Shane Rickard Photography)

For some reason I feel like I'm back. I was away, far away. I guess it's not that crazy that I too was pretty stressed as Jacob was studying for and taking the bar, and starting a new job. I was stressed for him, stressed about my house, stressed about groceries, and cooking, and children. Well, the children part was the easiest. I pretty much let most things slide, except for them. But today I feel so refreshed. Maybe because the weather has cooled down. Maybe because I got to hang out with a good friend today. Maybe because I made time for me this morning and exercised.

I've really been trying to simplify lately and focus on the most important things. It's amazing how I can still feel fulfilled without going 100mph. I still have so much to learn. But I love that the first step is simply to desire something.

But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words.
(Alma 32:27)

I DESIRE to have a simple, yet fulfilling life!

What do you do to simplify??

I have been trying to make things that seem overwhelming a little less so by setting a timer. I set a timer for 15 minutes and tackle a task for just that long and no longer. Then I set a timer and do something that I want to do for 15 min. (Inspired by flylady:) I have been getting so much done! Yesterday as I scrubbed my kitchen walls and cupboards I listened to this. An awesome group discussion from the Mormon channel about how to love creatively. How to find little ways to love your spouse and children. And lots of ideas for date night! I loved it because the girls speaking are people I can relate to. I want to be intentional, especially about the people that I love. You should listen to it! And then go to their website. Think of those two links as a gift from me to you... male or female... it's a great way to get you motivated to show your love to anyone!

Is Summer Almost Over??

2011-08-09T10:58:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to lie this summer has worn me out! It has been crazy trying to keep myself and the kids busy while Jacob has been studying for and taking the bar. It has also been crazy trying to figure out how to keep my house clean without Jacob around. I didn't realize how much he did around here. I am getting better at it little by little though.

And now... he's back! Yes, he goes to work. But after that he's all mine for the whole night. That is a wonderful feeling, not to mention the feeling that some money is going to magically appear in our bank account sometime soon :) I think I'm going to have to celebrate. Maybe I'll buy myself some cake decorating tips or something. That would be fun.

Here are some fun and telling pictures of how busy our summer has been.

(Our kids looove corn)

(This was one night after we went to the pool. I was trying to get the kids in the bath and came out to find Eli in his skinny's munchin' on pool snacks.)

We made it to the State Fair, the day after Jacob took the bar...

(just a handful of the many cute cousins at the Dean family reunion)

Maybe I'll get around to posting some more detailed posts, but picture posts are always fun right?

Yummy

2011-08-03T17:50:00.001-07:00

Giving and receiving lots of Zucchini around these parts! Check out the latest recipe on the Lean Dean Cooking Machine...

Road Trip

2011-07-12T12:31:00.000-07:00

The kids were amazing and we will definitely be doing it again! Here are some highlights...

Luci loved how pop pop always wanted to count her 'angel kisses'

St. George was a blast

Peacing out with Pop pop

Magleby's!!

The Kids Love Nana and Pop's "Farm"

Goofy Grandma Goosey

2011-07-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

Oh Utah. Oh to have 10 temples within an hour of each other. I miss the temple. I wish I could get up and do an early session while the kids ate breakfast with Jacob. Seriously love that place. Happy Sunday.

Did you miss us?

2011-06-29T17:22:00.000-07:00

We're back! Very burnt out and a bit disoriented... but things are slowly but surely getting back to normal. Here's a little bait to keep you coming back for more... when I get around to it...

For Me?

2011-05-13T10:54:00.000-07:00

I woke up Sunday morning to find cute little post it notes all around the house. Some from Jacob some from Luci. Including one on the toilet paper that read, " Thank you for being such a good mommy and for wiping away our... tears." I really like secret love notes :)

(Luci can often be found in the background making silly faces)

I enjoyed a completely gourmet meal thanks to my sous chef, Jacob Dean. Although I will probably be the sous chef pretty soon here. Can you tell that is a balsamic reduction sauce smothering my steak and mushrooms? (!) Grilled asparagus, baked onion rings, and creamy garlic mashers. The crust-less lemon and strawberry cheesecake he made left me speechless and begging for more. Mmm.

I totally milked mother's day this year. I slept in, got lots of naps, and the Mr. even drew a bubble bath for me while he cleaned up after dinner. Ahhh, thank you to whoever thought of Mother's day. I love getting to adore, love, and play with my little stickies while my hubby takes care of the other important household duties. Thank you to my Mr. I love you.

And I truly love being a mama.

Pictures

2011-04-28T04:43:00.000-07:00

Trying to catch butterflies...

Waving to daddy in the morning...

Creepy Easter Bunny that both kids loved...

Uncle Deelio!!!! We love you...

Now I have to give up the computer for a whole two weeks cuz Jacob has finals... for the last time ever! I can't believe it went by so fast :)

Things I Am Loving

2011-04-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

The blessings that come from this wonderful place.

Eating healthy and still enjoying every bite. It's so fun to be creative and find ways to eat healthy and still love everything I eat. It's challenging in so many ways... you have to figure out how to afford it, you have to find good recipes, and you have to avoid all the seemingly 'good' things and hold out for the best! These muffins are seriously the best. We ate the whole batch in less than 24 hours...

I love sharing, my kids, and Luci's hair in the humid weather.
My kids are so into sharing these days. Luci even shares her coveted ring pops that she got from a friend for her birthday.

I loved this conversation while at the grocery store.

Luci: Mommy let's get some watermelon
Me: Well, that sounds good, but it will be better when it's in season... in the summertime we can get some.
Luci: Oo Oo I see it, please!
Me: Sorry darlin'
...A few minutes later as we're walking past the pudding...
Luci: What's that mommy? Is it chocolate?
Me: Oh, that's pudding.
Luci: Oh, yeah PUDDING! Let's get some mom! Pudding is in season mom, it's always in season mom!
...She says as she is nodding her head in a very convincing way

And, I loved going out on the town last night with Mr. Dean.

Look at That Red Hair

2011-04-13T04:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Luci!

VERY slowly enjoying Graeter's Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip

Decorating birthday cupcakes with friends.

Crazy hair, birthday french toast with whipped cream and sprinkles, and the most requested treat ever... hot chocolate.

We can't go one place without someone commenting how beautiful Luci's red curly hair is. She always touches her hair as if to say, "who me?" And then she says thank you. She's my little pal. Some of my favorite moments with her happen while she is sitting on the potty. I wish all of you could have the chance to sit there with her while she talks and talks and stares into your eyes while her long flowing eyelashes flutter above her curious eyes. (I am so poetic ;)

Luci's Favorite things are:
Her friends
Helping me in the kitchen
Having people over for dinner
Family Home Evening
Fancy Nancy
Smoothies
Porridge (cream of wheat)
Marshmallows
Shopping
Pears
Hummus
FOOD
More FOOD
The temple
Nursery
Grandparents
Daddy Dates and purple ice cream
Staying up late to play games with the mommies and daddies
Planning and going to pretend parties
Skirts
Headbands("No pink tails, or pony tails, or braids mommy")
Scripture story: Korihor
Writing and sending letters

We definitely have our power struggles, but most of the time she is one sweet, obedient, funny little girl. Last night I asked her to pick up her room and get her jammies on while I put Elijah to bed (since Jacob wasn't home yet). When I came out of Eli's room I was pleasantly surprised to see her room completely picked up with everything in it's correct place. She had gotten her 'footie' pajamas on by herself, and was attempting to floss.

Love you Misses McGuilicutty...
(Pa Paw calls her that and she thinks it is hilarious, especially when she says it)

Wiser Too

2011-04-06T10:54:00.001-07:00

Elijah is ONE!

He continues to be a sweet, chill guy. He is a silent little destroyer. We always knew where luci was because she is sooo loud! But Eli is a sneaky little guy. For example, I found him in the pantry silently eating a bag of mini marshmallows.

He loves to cuddle too...

I love my little man.
Some of his favorite things are...
His blankie
His mommy
Oranges
Being Outside
Smoothies
Putting things in and out of containers
Swings and Slides
Peek a boo
Oatmeal
Stairs
Blowing kisses
Leading the Music (every time we sing)

Here's the Re Cap of the Party

I posted the Banapple Cake Recipe Here
We had fruit, nachos, and homemade animal crackers.
There were lots of friends and family and we were so glad it was warm enough for the kids to go outside!

Blueberry Panckaes with whipped cream and sprinkles :)

Very cautiously thinking about touching his cake...

Loving Grandma and his presents too.

Developing Taste Buds

2011-03-16T11:58:00.000-07:00

I know most of you know my opinions about getting kids to eat healthy... start them young! So, when I read this article I was so excited! I was feeling way more than validated. It's an interview with Dr. Allan Greene. Dr Greene is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at Stanford University School of Medicine, an Attending Pediatrician at Packard Children's Hospital, and a Senior Fellow at the University California San Francisco Center for the Health Professions. He has a couple of books out there on feeding baby. The interview focuses on things like feeding baby whatever the family is eating, even peanut butter! He suggests that holding off on allergenic foods might make a child more susceptible to the allergy (when there is not already a history of allergens). When we feed our babies exciting foods early they learn to love them. Here's the interview. Here's a link to his website. Here's some proof from my family... Both Elijah and Luci loved this cobb salad complete with lettuce, cabbage, grapes, carrots, cucumbers, shrimp, and eggs. The trick to getting Eli to eat it is chopping it up in a food processor or blender with a little salad dressing.

Also, his little blurb about milk was such an answer to my prayers today.

Recently

2011-03-07T10:52:00.000-08:00

Museum center A bit concerned with his first sandbox experience

"Cheese"

"

Peanut butter, banana, chocolate chip oatmeal, mmm.

Let me in!

Find Rest

2011-02-28T06:31:00.000-08:00

I'm tired a lot lately.
It takes a lot of stinkin' energy to be a good mom. And honestly I don't feel like a great one all the time. I'm not always excited to get on a pretend airplane and get on and off over and over while we travel the world. And here's a secret: I sometimes wish for silence... And I hate admitting this stuff. But life isn't all rose colored right? Well I had a special experience that helped to remember how I can be a better mom. How I can be excited to pretend, and to listen for hours, and to make dinner with little ones at my feet. Jacob gave me a priesthood blessing and Heavenly Father reminded me of this promise.

Matthew 11:28-30

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Can you guess what stood out to me? "I will give you rest" Rest from being exhausted, rest from doubting myself, rest from anxiety over all the little things.

I'll take it.

Now I've got to learn how to trust Him. Do it with me?

Life

2011-02-22T11:02:00.000-08:00

This morning I went for a swim. It's a good thing Jacob helps me get out the door, because I love it. It's getting into the pool that is so hard. I have been so cold lately! I think it's because of all the tricks mother nature has been playing. Anyway, Last week as I was walking past a lovely bunch of older ladies in the locker room (all half dressed) they all kindly commented ,"awe, what a skinny little thing". Then they talked about the old days when they were skinny little things and some about how they were never skinny things, and how their husbands (bless their souls) loved them just the way they were. I loved being able to listen in on that conversation. They were all so content with who they were. They were constantly complementing each other and saying how much they liked each other.
Today as I was swimming one of those sweet old ladies stopped me mid swim to ask me, in her thick German accent and shower cap covered head, where I was from. I said Utah, and now here. And then she continued saying, "oh, so you're not European then? You vere swimming so gracefully, and it vas so lovely to watch. Most people beat the [heck] out of the vater, and I vonder, vhy do they svim if they hate the vater?"
Ha! I got mistaken for a graceful European swimmer today :) I love those ladies.
Life is so great.
These kids are great

They are seriously so funny together.

Valentines day was great too...
I did accomplish lots of things on that list, not the flower cake yet, but I will! Jacob took me to get ice cream at Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream where I had to taste pretty much every flavor, notice all the little spoons in my hand. Proof of my indecisiveness. Yum, I got salty caramel, and Roxbury Road. Mm you have to go there. I want some more...

Wuv

2011-02-10T11:17:00.000-08:00

A Face to Wuv:

I'm sorry to say that I'm feeling pretty bummed about the (non) attention I've been giving my lovely February. It's almost V-day and I am so behind. I haven't baked or cooked one thing that was heart shaped this year. This is partly attributable to the fact that my heart and lips cookie cutters were missing until a few days ago. Mostly I have just been too busy though... It hurts me to say those words. Too busy for my favorite time of the year?? Me?! Well, I have a few days left and I am going to do them justice. What's on my list??

Printing off these free valentine printables and coloring them with the goose

Making these dark chocolate cupcakes with strawberry cream filling

Attempting a red velvet cake, with this frosting tutorial

Making a list of things that I love, that Luci loves, that Eli loves, and that Jacob loves
Making heart shaped pizza's tomorrow night
Maybe these cookies too...
Have lots of people over to eat all the treats, so I don't.

Okay that's pretty ambitious so lets make a goal to do at least 3 of them.

Oh and here's another face to Wuv:

(daddy found a wig for eli)

It's My Birffday

2011-02-03T11:52:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure I ever imagined how much a handmade card from my own child would mean to me on my birthday. She came and woke me up this morning holding this fabulous card saying, "mommy, it's your birthday!" Inferring, 'get up silly, let's play!' She brought me to a table with hot french toast smothered in butter and powdered sugar (my favorite), and a beautiful bouquet of white daisies (also my favorite). Mr. Dean likes to spoil me rotten...

...I am looking forward to getting even more rotten while we celebrate the whole weekend long...

You know how some birthdays don't feel any different than other years?

Well this year I definitely feel different. Heck, I even look different. I feel like I actually look older.

It seems like the years 19-24 all felt really young, and now BAM I'm 25! Not that I feel old, I just feel like I'm not a 1L anymore (lawyer lingo for first year law student).

(please notice the huge glob of lotion my little lu is sneaking onto her brother)

I feel like I'm officially a mom, and a wife, a Relief Society presidency member, an aunt (yay!), all those titles that youngsters don't have. I like it, I do. It's all sinking in. Part of me is a little sad to let go of some of the youngster titles. But I'm excited to be in the prime of my life, I just hope it doesn't go by too fast.

Happy Birthday to me :)

p.s. didn't my mother take some great pictures while she was in town. Love her...

I'm sure you're dying to know...

2011-01-24T12:08:00.001-08:00

Did Luci ever get her five golden ice skates??

She got something even better! Boy did we feel blessed this Christmas, and really the whole year of 2010.

How we made it one more year of Law School without an income is ever a mystery only known to Heaven. How we managed to score another adorable, amazing, and unbelievably easy child is a prize we don't deserve. How our little corolla has managed to chug along without any big problems is just as curious. How Jacob scored a job so early in the game etc... All is a mystery, until we remember that someone almighty and majestic is at the helm of our little lives. Then it doesn't seem so mysterious. We are so grateful to our Heavenly Father and Savior whom we trust even when times don't seem so curiously wonderful.

I'm glad I could extend the Christmas spirit for you just a little bit longer with my late Christmas message. continue on for more...

Luci says that all the people with their decorations still up are simply, "still celebrating Jesus' birthday". I know it's cold and it's January, but there is so much to celebrate! Are we like Martha from the story in Luke 10? The savior answered to Martha, “Martha, Martha, thou art … troubled about many things”. But Mary, she was focused on the more important things. When we focus on the Savior we will be able to rejoice! Even without all the Christmas hub bub and decorations to remind us.

More Boogie Man

2011-01-09T17:43:00.000-08:00

Per my brother Westie's Request...

The Boogie Man

2011-01-03T12:16:00.001-08:00

This is the loving nickname that little sister and daddy have given to Eli... Emphasis on the Boo

"Where's my boogie man?"

"Come to dada boogie"

"I want to take a bath with the boogie"

"The boogie man's awake!"

I love it :)

He knows if you've been bad or good...

2010-12-23T12:15:00.001-08:00

Someone's excited for Santa...

She asked him specifically for "5 golden ice skates"

Jacob took her to see the ice skaters downtown, they got hot chocolate too. She was in heaven...

Mm I Feel Good...

2010-12-06T18:20:00.000-08:00

Babies sleeping through the night...

Just went for a swim...
Eating one of these...

Going to bed early with this one...

Equals one happy girl...

goodnight!

~Danielle

Thankful

2010-11-14T18:14:00.000-08:00

Tonight I am grateful for this fireball who cracks herself up, and me too. Happy Monday!

please note the pretzels she is holding in her toes...

Harvesting

2010-11-03T11:48:00.000-07:00

We did some fun things with fruits of the fall this year...

We picked apples at Pa-paw's house and made lots and lots of applesauce.

We bought a bushel of peaches, learned how to can them, made peach jam, and this delicious lime spiked peach cheesecake pie.

And, we went late Raspberry picking with our friends. The girls ate, and ate, and ate the raspberries while we were picking. Then we had a picnic by a pretty little pond. It was a glorious day, ended with a delicious Amish creamstick with maple frosting. If you ever come visit us you mush try a creamstick. It will change your life! We love fall. Don't you?

Vacation Part Two

2010-10-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

We got to stay in Utah for almost 4 whole weeks this summer. Luci pretty much took up residence at the grandparents houses. She is always telling people, "We don't live in Utah anymore, now we live in Cincinnati again." Boy oh boy did she get spoiled. And so did we. Babysitters whenever we wanted, delicious Magleby's food, and being close to family. I know I speak for all of us when I say it was the best. Thanks fam.

Call for Music

2010-10-05T11:50:00.000-07:00

What songs really get you going? Make you bump and smile and need to break out and dance? I need some suggestions here folks. Would you mind sharing some of your faves?

New Do...

2010-10-01T09:57:00.000-07:00

Last week we got crazy and hitched a ride with a hot guy to Indiana... He was going to a graduate fair so we hopped in the car last minute. We were excited to spend some extra time with said hot guy, see some cool waterfalls and have a picnic. It was awesome, except for the unfortunate realization that the waterfalls were all dried up. On the way back to the car Luci said very matter of factly, "We had fun mommy. We had fun on our hike." Elijah hardly even made a peep in the backpack. He's so chill. Anyway, notice the long flowing locks...

This is me, my new Do, and my goose, making faces for you. Something my good friends Amy, and Andrea taught me how to do. Thanks to them I can never look in a mirror and not twist my face in all possible ways. Here's to show I am doing my duty to pass it down to my innocent children.

Vacation Part One

2010-09-29T17:06:00.000-07:00

Our little family vacation earlier this summer. It was simple, but it was a blast!We stayed in the Marriott where Luci slept in her own queen sized bed surrounded by pillows. We ate out. We went hiking. We went swimming. We were together. It was great.

Luci eating a cookie in bed before dinner.

These Two

2010-09-15T06:57:00.000-07:00

Oh, lately I've just been feeling a little frazzled. Okay, a lot frazzled. My little kiddos have been sucking the life out of me...one of them literally right... Elijah wakes up 3 times a night, he's getting teeth, he actually wants to be held where he used to be so content, he wants to eat real people food, he gets mad at his toys when they won't come to him. Luci wants to be held because Elijah is getting held, "you're my mommy too, I need some attention." She always has to go potty as soon as I say I need to go, she wants all her food 'on the side' everything separated, she needs me to sit next to her to watch her shows. She's constantly thinking of things she needs..."but mommy, I need...I need...I need...I need something!" It makes me so frustrated! But then when I sit down to rock Eli and massage his swollen little gums I really just wish I could do it forever. When I finally lay down on the couch so Luci can listen to my heart, give me shots, take my blood pressure, and tell me to be brave becuase, "this is just going to hurt for a second mommy" I wish I would have done it sooner. Everything that comes out of her mouth is so cute when I take the time to listen. She loves to fix Jacob's broken heart. He tells her that his heart breaks when he has to leave in the mornings because he will miss her so much. So, Luci tells him to sit down and do a puzzle with her because that always fixes broken hearts "it will make you feel better daddy".

disclaimer: my kids are really, really good kids by the way, I'm just a crazy mom sometimes...lack of sleep can probably sum that up, well mostly...

Moving

2010-09-07T16:06:00.000-07:00

Luci tells me all the time that we are moving to a new house. A new house in California. She wonders if Maddie is back at her house yet. She asks, "mommy, where's Texas?" We miss our friends...

Takin' it Slow

2010-08-28T17:46:00.000-07:00

I have a lot, a lot to catch up on. So, I'm simply going to take it slow so that every story and picture get their fair share of time to shine. First of all, eh-hem... drum roll please... I give you awesome pictures taken by the lovely Rebekah Anderson. I'm so excited about them. They were taken when Elijah was about 1 month old.

2010-07-14T18:49:00.000-07:00

In the words of Ella and Louis, "Summertime, and the livin' is easy". We are busy and havin' fun!

My Babies

2010-06-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

Mother, oh Mother, come shake out your cloth
empty the dustpan, poison the moth,
hang out the washing and butter the bread,
sew on a button and make up a bed.
Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?
She's up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.

Oh, I've grown shiftless as Little Boy Blue
(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).
Dishes are waiting and bills are past due
(pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo).
The shopping's not done and there's nothing for stew
and out in the yard there's a hullabaloo
but I'm playing Kanga and this is my Roo.
Look! Aren't her eyes the most wonderful hue?
(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).

The cleaning and scrubbing will wait till tomorrow,
for children grow up, as I've learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep.
I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep.

by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton

Tea Time

2010-06-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

Sugar and spice and everything nice. Little girls right? How does mine keep getting gashes and cuts, scrapes, burns, and bruises? A couple weeks ago she smashed her face on a thomas the train and bled from her mouth and her nose. Then she bit her tongue when she slipped in the bath, burned her finger on my curling iron, and fell off the couch to win herself a whopping 9 staples in her head. This girl has been in the hospital way too many times lately.

Here's some lovin' for the fathers...

2010-06-20T18:33:00.001-07:00

7:02 pm

2010-06-09T16:02:00.001-07:00

It just took one hour for Luci to go to sleep. I'm not sure if it's because Jacob wasn't here tonight, or if she really just couldn't live without that one extra song that she begged over and over for. While she was up there she practiced saying 'no' in her meanest voice over and over, said she needed to go potty a million times, informed me that she was 'awake now mommy', cried for her special blankie (which she can't have b/c she peed on it this morning and I haven't washed it yet), etc... what a crazy lady. I love her though, I do. I love the way she stroked my hair as I finally gave in and rocked her til' she calmed down, love the way she tells me I'm the 'bumb' except she really means to say the 'bomb', love the way she eats vegetables dipped in blue cheese, love the way she gives me arm tickles when she's sitting on my lap, love the way she holds my face right next to hers when she has something important to say, love her energy. Just love her.

Eli took exactly 2 minutes to go to sleep tonight. Seriously, what a chill guy. He fussed a little so I knew he was tired. I wrapped him up in his soft blue blankie and he smiled at me. I sang him two songs, layed him down, and left him there wide awake. Went back two minutes later to find him out cold. love him. Love the way he gets excited when we read him books, love how chunky he's getting, love his deep blue eyes, love his cute little noises and the conversations we have, love how he enjoys his bath.

Life is good peeps. later gaters.

Oatmeal??

2010-06-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

A new way to eat oatmeal for breakfast. Delicious! Check it out here.

Lessons

2010-05-27T16:56:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been learning a lot of lessons. Lessons that probably would have seemed really hard if they were in any previous time in my life. Okay not really hard...maybe just a little difficult. Learning how to balance 2 children, a husband with a job, and my own needs and wants is definitely a puzzle. I have found that I can get by on the basics, like cereal for breakfast, jammies all day, popping in a movie for luci when I'm tired, making frozen ravioli, saving jobs for Jacob to do when he get's home, etc... But I enjoy my life so much more when it pushes me to my limits. When I plan fun adventures, yummy food, when I read good books, have meaningful scripture study, plan interesting crafts and activities, look pretty for my husband, take care of my home, and really soak in every moment with my children.

This is all interesting to me because while I find that I enjoy my life more, I am also tremendously tired at the end of every day, and some moments are really stressful as I try to be intentional in everything that I do. Sometimes it's because I don't plan good enough, or I plan too much. It's hard to fail and have your day blow up in your face. Something my dad taught me though is that, "if you don't get hurt sometimes then you're not trying hard enough". So, I've been pushing myself and praying for strength. Strength to push through the tired moments with a smile on my face, to not complain when I want to , to be okay with the times that I do get hurt. I really have to rely on the Lord, especially when I'm starting to lose patience. You say, "how could I ever lose patience with that sweet little curly haired red head" well, I'm sorry to say that sometimes I do. She doesn't deserve it though.

A few things that have really helped me lately to have perspective in this phase of my life as a young mother are

1. Country Music...yes it's true. They're always singin' about how "you're gonna miss this" you know, when you're kids grow up. It's so true though. My babies are going to be 24 and I'm going to be 50 before I know it.

(She's practically 24 and mothering me already)

2. Other's experiences that have been or are much more difficult than mine. I listened to an episode of Everything Creative on the Mormon Channel yesterday. It was about a mother with an amazing story. She had some really hard things to handle, and yet she did it creatively. It was Episode 7. Listen to it when you have a little while, maybe while you're folding laundry...

3. The Scriptures. We're studying the old testament in Sunday School, and we have a great teacher... Anyway, the children of Israel had some pretty stinkin' hard trials. The women who traveled with Nephi and Lehi too. Bearing children in the wilderness, surviving on raw meat, yucK! Okay, and the ultimate example and heroine to me is Eve. The first woman on earth, no parenting books to read, no internet to look up what to do when your child's temp. is 105 degrees. Not even a mother to call to ask for help. No one to babysit while she ran some errands, or planted her garden. Wow, I really am glad that she did it, and not me.

So, even though I'm tired, I love my life. And I know that I'm doing what I'm supposed to. When I'm intentional about it I feel so much better.

Can't...Keep...My....Eyes....Open

2010-05-22T18:28:00.000-07:00

I'm really, really tired right now. But here goes a post, b/c I love all of you so much...
It was his birthday last Saturday...the tall dreamy red headed one. We are still dreaming about all the yummy free food we enjoyed that day. Graeter's, Red Robin, mmm. He's 26! Now that is crazy. How does time fly by so fast. I love celebrating birthday's especially his, since I get to spoil him and he can't say no. He likes to refuse from taking a break off of cleaning for the day...but I can actually insist on his birthday. I love you babe.

Luci had quite a dramatic experience in the ER last week. Her temp. got up to 105... let me tell you, not something fun to watch on the thermometer as the numbers just keep rising. So, I was freaking out. Thankfully Jacob met me there. They thought she had a UTI, but we found out on Friday that it must have just been a virus. So, all the shots, and the catheter were for nada...but I am glad they did it just in case. I just feel bad for luci. What a sad pic...She fell asleep right after the shots. She was at the hospital for almost 4 hours. It was traumatic for all of us. Thankfully we didn't have to bring Elijah there.Mom came to visit! A surprise visit :) Too bad she left the morning of the day we had the ER experience. I love my mamba. We had a great time together. We even got to go get Indian Food, something that both of our husbands are not a fan of. It was amazing...

Kentucky and Mother's Day

2010-05-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

Click on the picture to enlarge

The kid's and I (that is so weird to say) went to visit our friends in KY on a whim while Jacob took his last two finals. It's so nice to have friends that let you come with one or two days notice. We had such a great time :) We talked, fed ducks, and relished in how much alike we are. Parenting styles, cooking techniques, testimonies, etc... At first Luci and JoAnn played together very well, but silently. It wasn't until they figured out that each other could talk that they really hit it off. Thank you for a great trip!

Mother's day was great. Filled with my favorite foods and people. I even got flowers this year. Wild flowers from our back yard. The first time there have been flowers on my table since we moved here (besides the lovely flowers from my friends at church).

Here's a funny one:

Missing

2010-04-27T16:18:00.000-07:00

Our internet hasn't been working, and Jacob has been taking the computer to school for finals. So, I'm very behind in the blogging world. Here are a few pictures to make you happy. Elijah fell asleep in the bumbo today while I was doing dishes. That man, likes his sleep. He's still an angel baby, but cuter now because he smiles at me. Luci's hair is finally long enough some pony tails! Can you tell she likes them? She especially loves staring into the mirror and admiring them. She asks for them every day now. She is such a big girl, it breaks my heart. Jacob got me a book from the library called, "You're not the Boss of Me"... It's much needed since Luci has become quite the boss lately. I just need to channel the independence right?? Love that girl :)

Buckle up...here come pictures

2010-04-15T17:35:00.000-07:00

What have we been up to? Nana and Pop-Pop came to visit. Eli was blessed. Luci had a birthday cake. Swimming. Barbecuing. Sleeping. Playing outside. Etc...

What a special day. Thanks for an awesome experience Jacob and Eli.

Luci wanted a ladybug cake again this year, so I decided to change it up a little this year. I made banapple cake again with cream cheese frosting. The ladybugs are chocolate softies with whoppers on top. Mm those chocolate softies are delish, thanks for the recipe Deanna.
B...anca and Wyatt are some of Luci's favorite friends :) Even though their parents like to ditch me when I'm not looking..ha ha, just kidding.
Luci likes to stare at people when they're having fun. I'm not sure why. She does it at the park...instead of playing she stands in the middle and watches everyone else play?? silly girl.
This handsome boy has slept 6-6.5 hours straight at night! Thank you Elijah :)
Luci loves helping me and pretending like she is a mama. She needs a miniature mommy everything. She begs and begs to use the boppy nursing pillow while I'm feeding E, she steals the burp cloth, puts on my bras, and as you can see here pushes eli in her baby's stroller. She really is a great helper. She's been doing awesome as a big sister. Ps. Thanks for the outfit Rachel V. and Wendy!

Party Time

2010-04-01T16:10:00.000-07:00

Say Cheese Birthday Girl!

Today Luci turned 2! She was so excited when she woke up to find a bunch of balloons in her room. Jacob told her happy birthday and for the rest of the day she kept saying, it's party time! and happy my birthday! She got to have monkey bread for breakfast, but of course she still asked for grapenuts... we asked her what she wanted for dinner and she said, "a smoothie please". So she had a green drink :) We made cupcakes with our friends, vanilla chiffon with lemon buttercream, yum. Thanks for coming over to celebrate with us! And thanks for all the calls we got today from family!

We got her a soccer ball and while we were outside kicking it around she saw the dog next door. The dog was scratching his ear, and Luci thought it was hilarious! She thought the dog was dancing because she kept saying, "He's shaking his booty!" She also told me, "mom, you're crazy" and "okey dokey artichokey" today. I'm really not sure where she get's all these sayings. Our favorite these days is when she says "see ya later racoon" instead of "see ya soon racoon", or "see ya later aligator". Love you Darlin'! Don't grow up too fast!

Chocolate!

2010-03-31T09:22:00.000-07:00

Back to Baking...I love baking, and chocolate. Check out theses delicious brownies :)

Happy

2010-03-27T08:04:00.000-07:00

Oh, we are tired but we are happy. Okay, Luci's not tired, just happy. Luci is as cute as ever. She says the funniest things. She keeps us laughing all the time. Here are a some of them,

"Luci, what's on daddy's face?"

"--Fur"

"Cheer up Charlie, Don't be afraid"

She loves to request either Blue Cheese or Caesar for her salad.

Mom came to town to help and visit for a week. We are so grateful that she came! And Pops too :) He came for the last couple of days. Luci loved all the attention, and so did I. Thank you mom, we miss you already.

That's Silly Daddy

2010-03-16T16:15:00.000-07:00

This is one of Luci's favorite phrases. We've had lots of silly moments around here. Silly faces, silly games, silly accidents which may include little baby boys peeing everywhere...including their own face... The first major difference in our little boy and our little Luci, diaper changing requires much concentration and quick reflexes. While the little red heads look amazingly alike, they are so different already. Elijah being laid back and ever so patient, Luci being feisty and loud and ever so busy. It's so interesting that we could tell these differences within the first few minutes of birth.

Speaking of birth... Although the experience started out nothing as I had imagined it would, I couldn't have asked for a more memorable and awesome experience. The importance of trusting in the Lord and his plan was unmistakeably a lesson I needed to re-learn. While I tried and tried everything i could to have things go the way I thought would be best, I was reminded to trust not in the arm of flesh. Since my water broke slowly and I didn't actually start going into labor for a few hours, I thought for sure that I would have to be induced...not cool. But instead, I was able to check into the hospital nice and relaxed like. (Completely different than being dialated to an 8 and 100% effaced in triage with Luci.) Then I got to go over my birth plan with my nice nurse, get all settled, and boom the surges had arrived. Three very short hours later he was in my arms! It's crazy how quickly time goes by when you're in the zone. It was definitely intense, but I have a wonderful husband who is an expert, and should probably be a professional doula. Forget Law School. Yes, I did indeed ask for an epidural, and I lost my focus once or twice, but it was so fast that by the time i asked he was almost here :)

****I know this post is incomplete, but my prince is hungry :)*********

Until next time!

Elijah

2010-03-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Elijah Edmund Dean finally arrived today at 5:31 a.m. I use "finally" loosely, because today was his due date, but we anticipated that he was going to come early. He is a pretty big boy -- 8 lbs. 2 oz. and 21 inches long. He's very cute in our unbiased opinions. Danielle and Elijah are both doing well.

The last pregnant picture of Danielle, Sunday after church.

The man-child.

And So, We're Off

2010-03-10T20:05:00.000-08:00

Only an hour before the official due date, my water has broken. So, we're off to the hospital in a couple of hours. I trust my baby and my body! I am focused on a smooth and natural birth :) Stay tuned for the pictures :)

~Danielle

Still Pregnant

2010-03-02T09:28:00.000-08:00

Yup, I'm still pregnant :) Today is 38 1/2 weeks, that's how early Luci was born. I'll admit it, I was kind of hoping for a replay. Whatever is best for the little guy is okay with me though. We just got back from grocery shopping. Luci loves shopping. She always has. One of her first words was shopping. Anytime she would see any kind of store while we were driving she would say shopping. Even today after an hour and a half of shopping she said she wanted to go again shortly after.

Bliss

2010-02-24T16:43:00.000-08:00

Today was day number 5 of luci being sick...again. This time she's had a high fever and no other symptoms, so the doctor finally decided to put her on antibiotics just in case. Well, that means more antibiotics for poor little luci. And lots of days waiting in our cute little house until she gets better. Jacob is super busy volunteering, working, fulfilling his church callings, working out, reading, and driving to and from his externship. He only comes home at a decent time twice a week. Otherwise it's just me in my little house while Luci sleeps. It's really hard to motivate myself to eat good, among other things, when he's not around to cook for. So, when my visiting teachers dropped by these cookies, the battle had begun. To eat dinner, or to eat chocolate chip cookies. In the end I ate both. Some cookies before, during, and after dinner though. This was my favorite, Smore's sandwich. Have you ever tried it? Why have I never tried it before?? I think Elijah might have more of a sweet tooth than is humanly possible. Sweets have been just so wonderful lately. So has my luci girl. She certainly is not quiet, or still, ever. But she is wonderful. She really does "make me happy when sky's are grey". Every night, as I pick up her little things, shoes, purses, pictures she's scribbled, I can't help but be happy.

Oh my stomach

2010-02-16T14:35:00.000-08:00

I just saw this picture today as my screen saver was turning through. We took it last May in Nashville. I always did think it would be cool to be a cowgirl. I still think it would be awesome to live on a small farm or ranch in Idaho. Probably thanks to Aunt Tricia and Uncle Randy :) Oh but this picture made me long for a basketball-less mid section. Why?...so that I could sleep on my stomach again, so Jacob could hold me close again, so my belly wouldn't hang out of the bottom of all my shirts even my maternity shirts, so I could breathe and eat until I was actually satisfied. The many woes of pregnancy. I do love the basketball too though, and it is so worth it to sacrifice some little things for a few months. It's so awesome to feel the little alien moving inside. And, it will be so awesome to stare into his little eyes, straight from heaven. I am getting excited, and anxious, and nervous. Luci is so ready to be a big sister. She talks about sharing her toys with Elijah, and changing his diaper so he won't cry. At breakfast this morning she was talking about him being born, and she said, " cut it mommy?" And Jacob and I were confused. Then she said, "cut mommy's tummy?' We didn't tell her where the baby actually comes out, because then she would never stop talking about it. So Jacob told her the baby just pops right out, no cutting necessary. She was satisfied with that answer, at least for now. Jacob is busy getting E's room ready. He's painted, and scraped wallpaper till his fingers bled. We are also getting new carpet! Wahoo!

(Our Yummy Valentine's Coconut Cake)

(37 weeks on Thursday)

Luci Loo Is Almost Two

2010-02-11T15:54:00.000-08:00

Don't try to tell me she's not the cutest, cuz she is.

P.S. you could be lucky enough to have my sister in law Rebekah take pictures of your family in my basement. She said she'd love to come here and take pics with her studio equip. if people are interested! Any takers?? She gives you all the pics, and edits them!

The Month of Love

2010-02-11T15:02:00.000-08:00

It's February and some of you may know that it happens to be my favorite month of the year. Partly because it includes my birthday, my little sisters birthday, and Valentine's Day. But mostly it's a way that I have discovered to make a freezing, dreary month (weather wise) something to celebrate...thus forgetting about the cold, and dreary world. Brilliant! if I say so myself. I haven't been as good at celebrating each day this year (dressing in pink, making heart shaped everything, eating lots of raspberries, and chocolate covered whatevers), but hey, I'm about to have a little chiddler (as the BFG would say) and we've had lots going on. OH excuses excuses. We have had some good times though, so let me tell ya about them.
I got to celebrate my birthday for a whole week! Went to lunch, breakfast, and got ice cream for free twice. My lovely friends made me breakfast, and Jacob made a true blue "Richard Parkinson (my dad) Sunday dinner" the Baby back ribs even had homemade bbq sauce, and there were mushrooms sauteed in butter and lemon. There was also hot sourdough from the oven, and grilled asparagus. Oh and don't forget the Better than you know what cake: a tradition my mom had for me. I did make heart and lip shaped Lion House Rolls. I made pink cupcakes for activity days, and today we made valentines at a friends house. I bought sweethearts (which are definitely not as good as they used to be) and valentine's snickers... okay so maybe I have indulged a little...Isn't February worth it though! It's such a great month (really Cat, you don't still hate it do you?) Besides celebrating February here are some other things.

Luci got tubes in her ears. The nurses told us that she would probably be inconsolable when she woke up from the anesthesia. Of course when we went back to try and console her she was simply talking in full sentences to the nurse.

Yes, I got emotional. It's not fun seeing you pride and joy go limp while looking you in the eyes with huge tears. "Save me mommy"

Nana made Luci an adorable Tinkerbell tutu which she loves!

We've had tons of snow! I'm so glad Jacob likes playing in it with Luci.

We've spent lots of time at Grandma and Grandpa's house because of Jacob's externship at the Supreme Court. (Making Playdough with Parker and Grandma)

A Life Saver Smoothie

2010-01-29T09:41:00.000-08:00

While this combination might look somewhat odd to some of you, I'm sure many of you would agree with me about it's life saving abilities. Oh the green drink. So delicious when made right. It's one of the only things I can get Luci to eat when she's sick, or refusing vegetables. It's so nice for me to know that I can drink a big glassful of this and get so much out of it! Because really, it is hard to make sure you get in those leafy greens everyday. This is one of our favorite combinations:

1.5 cups water
2 tbs oj concentrate
1 cup plain yogurt
3 tbs ground flaxseed
1/2 cup frozen raspberries or blueberries
1 orange
1 large banana
as much kale or spinach as you can handle!

The benefits:

The oj and banana completely kick the flavor of the greens, and add vitamins. The flax meal gives omega 3's, magnesium, fiber, and more. Plain yogurt for texture, calcium, pro-biotics (especially good when taking antibiotics), and vitamin D. Raspberries have anti-oxidants, vitamin C, iron, vitamin A, and more calcium. Oranges, well we all know the good things about oranges. Bananas equal potassium, better texture, and flavor. And kale, oh kale, just look at the charts on this baby here.

I have lots to post about, so look forward to some more posts. I hope I can squeeze them in before this baby comes! It's technically only a month away you know.

Mm Mm Good...

2010-01-24T17:41:00.001-08:00

Craving pizza?? Try this...

Mostly Finished

2010-01-14T09:17:00.000-08:00

Jacob and I have been working on Luci's big girl room for when baby E comes. I am so happy with how it turned out. It's so bright, and the colors aren't too girly. Luci loves it too. Today she begged to sleep in the big girl bed. Really? I don't know if I'm ready for that. When do you switch them to a big bed? Any advice? She's doing great with the potty. A few accidents every now and again, but that's probably because I forget to remind her. She's hasn't had a poopy accident yet thankfully!

Did anyone else watch American Idol last night? (We watched while I started to make this for a friends birthday brunch.) Idol is the only show that Jacob and I get excited to watch together. Was this not hilarious? "Pants on the ground, pants on the ground, lookin' like a fool with ya pants on the ground"...It totally reminded me of my Gran-Doc. One, because he hates low rider pants, two, b/c he sings rap too. "Hey Shorty, It's ya Birfday, we're gonna party like it's ya birfday" He sings that while dancing to guests at the restaurant. It's hilarious. Sorry, only family will fully understand that one :)

Dry and Clean

2010-01-07T10:40:00.000-08:00

This is what we are doing today...

While it does this outside...

Most schools are closed today because of the snow, of course Jacob is lucky enough to get out a whopping 30 minutes early. Come on law school, you're not really that hard core are you? Speaking of Law School, ya-hoo for Jacob who came home with a few pretty awesome grades yesterday. I'm so proud. There are still more to come...
I'm so proud of my Luci too. She is doing a great job potty training so far :) Feel free to call and congratulate her, she loves the praise and sure it helps reinforce the training. Along with the chocolate, fruit snacks, pretzels, and Cheetos... Fun stuff!

Truly Wise Counsel

2010-01-04T16:42:00.000-08:00

Last week Jacob and I got to celebrate our 3rd anniversary. Because of many different circumstances, including snow storms, babysitting, and sick little Luci, we got to celebrate on lots of different days. We still get one more date night too to finish off all the things we were planning to do. One of the things we did was go on a date to see Avatar in 3d. It was cool, really cool. We both thought it was well worth the 9 dollars a person. Dates are so wonderful. That is definitely something that we have learned while being married. We have made it a goal from the beginning to go out once a week. Of course there have been weeks when it hasn't worked out, and I'm sure there will be more. We definitely notice a difference in our relationship when we haven't made the time to go out though. This is my favorite quote on the matter of date night. I quote it often, just ask Jacob ;) The book that I found this quote cites it from a CES employees meeting, doesn't sound legit does it?...but the author(Laura Brotherson) then states that she corresponded to Elder Perry about the quote and he confirmed it and added more...here is the gold girls and boys,

From Elder L. Tom Perry,

"The most important meeting of the week is sacrament meeting, and the second most important is date night." Elder Perry later added, "I do believe it is very important that you put first on your calendar, after sacrament meeting, time together as husband and wife."

Thanks Jacob for taking me on dates, and for making me laugh. I love you forever.

***Warning***Side effects of weekly dating and twue wuv may include excessive swelling of the abdomen...

30 Weeks and Counting

My Hard Working Man

2009-12-22T16:58:00.000-08:00

The break has been heavenly so far. I think I've had much more of a break than Jacob though. He's so good to me. He wakes up with Luci, makes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, shovels the snow, and he's done about 4 major projects around our house in only one week. We've eaten way too much sugar, been sledding, Christmas shopping, played with friends, and relaxed. Luci has been up to some pretty funny stuff this week too. She's mastered her colors, still begs to do letters 24/7, insists on putting on her own pants which takes forever!, builds towers with everything, talks about Christmas, Santa, and presents constantly, colors in her coloring book on the floor while standing on one leg...here are some pictures. And please check the video bar for some hilarious videos. Merry Christmas!

An Egg

2009-12-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

jacob and Luci are on a date. Yes, and I am at home eating a hard boiled egg. I love hard boiled eggs. So many people think they are gross, but really I find them very satisfying and I always want more than one. They went to Chik-fil-a because we got a coupon in the mail. Jacob loves their food, but luci isn't so sure about how she feels about chicken nuggets, we'll see what happens.

So finals have been tough this semester. For me, and for Jacob. I know I shouldn't complain because it will all be over soon and things could be a lot worse. But still, here I am whimpering that I'm not on a date with my busy husband, and my daughter is. ***Good news! Jacob just called to say that he lined up a babysitter and I better get my dancing shoes on :) We're not really going dancing I'm sure, but we are going somewhere! What a hubby. I guess things can get better really fast sometimes, so quitcherbelliachin! (a favorite phrase of my mom's).

Here's a funny story and a cute picture to make this post worth looking at...

At the grocery store the other day Luci was being as loud as ever. Yelling for pretzels, grapes, milk, cereal, cheese, whatever she saw. We talked about being quiet in the store, and she would do a good job for a few seconds. In the check out line for some reason she thought it would be funny to start yelling "Mommy's naked! Mommy's naked!" Of course as I was shushing her she just kept yelling and laughing. This girl has seriously got a sense of humor. How did she know that would be funny? So there you have it, Luci's first joke. I'm sure there will be plenty more.

Dean Ears

2009-12-02T16:20:00.000-08:00

I should have many many good pictures for you because Luci and I just got back from a great to trip to the homeland. But, I forgot my camera folks. For the first time ever. Okay that was a lie. I am so bummed because there were so many great opportunities for pics. Snuggling with Nana and Pop-pop, cooking with Grandma Goosey, flower girl shots, and giving kisses to aunts and uncles. She sure loves her family. She decided she loves her grandma's more than me on the trip actually. Every morning I would go to get her out of bed and she would shake her head and say either,
"Grandma, or Nana" why in the world would she want her Mamma? Now all she wants is her daddy since we've been home. That's okay though. I get most of the love anyway :) Anyway, I've been dealing with a much different Luci than usual. A sick one. She has mostly been sleeping, even on the airplane, an unconceived notion in the past. I have been the benefactor of many a snuggle, also a rare treat with Luci. Grandma dean got some lovin' too while we stayed with them for one night before heading back home. It turns out Luci has had an ear infection for about a month and a half. Another Dean headed for tubes in her ears. Sorry princess.

Really, Really, Yummy

2009-11-04T09:36:00.001-08:00

See what we had for lunch today...

deancooking.blogspot.com

Hee=Haw

2009-11-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

The end of October...farm, hayride, pumpkin patch, trick or treating, and more fall colors... It was a good month. We're contemplating getting out a teeny bit of Christmas music...I know, already! Aren't you excited though? I'm making peppermint bark this week too. I just can't wait okay. Oh yeah, we're having a baby boy! That makes me 21 weeks now, and feeling great :)

A little candy crazed in this pic, with only a few m&m's.

Please watch the hee-haw video in the video bar. She says it all the time now, hoping to go to the farm again.

By the way

2009-10-22T13:08:00.001-07:00

My phone was stolen yesterday...so until then you can reach me on Jacob's phone or through e-mail.

dlparkinson@gmail.com

Love it

2009-10-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

I love this cooking blog and they're giving away this cute apron! Check it out...

just-cook-already@blogspot.com

[dressing up for Hallzooween]

Also, I am very happy to announce that Luci is back to her normal sleeping pattern. She makes me so happy. Today we went to visit Jacob at school since he hasn't been able to see Luci much this week. We went out for pizza and the whole way home Luci kept saying, "Daddy! Fun! Pizza! Num!" Then with a concerned look on her face, "Daddy, school".

I had a midwife appointment today. The nurse told me I that I gained too much weight this month...okay so I did gain 7 lbs...in one month. But she looked at me like I was crazy, like I'm eating for my whole family or something. I kept trying to count the lbs. I've gained since I've been pregnant and it was only adding up to 9lbs...I'm almost 20 weeks. I'm pretty sure that's just fine! Anyway, the midwife reassured me that 9lbs is great. Some people gain a lot in one month and hardly any in other months. We shall see! This baby makes me hungry! Also...it took the midwife almost 10 minutes to find the heartbeat today. We could hear the little stinker zooming all over the place and moving though. The baby finally sat still just long enough for her to count. She asked me if I had coffee for breakfast or something. "Nope, nope just oatmeal with some honey on it", I said. We've got another non-stop dean baby in this womb of mine.

A fussy one

2009-10-16T09:52:00.000-07:00

This little one has been giving me quite a test the last week or so. For some reason she refuses to sleep. She just screams instead. To the point that she has lost her cute little voice several times. So she's completely overtired, bags under her eyes and all. This means days filled with, "NO!, no, No!"coming from her sweet little mouth. Distraction is a great tool. Especially reading and her baby doll. Poor girl.

Well, last night Jacob gave her a priesthood blessing and decided to put her in a different room. She still fussed for a little bit, but no screaming! I wonder if she is afraid of something in her room? Is it separation anxiety from starting nursery at church? I guess she'll be sleeping in her pack and play until we figure it out. Until then, I'm so glad it's the weekend so Jacob can help me...I was starting to go crazy. I did crazy things yesterday. I almost bought hostess donuts at the store, and I made macaroni and cheese with canned peaches for dinner. Those that know me can attest that those things are considered crazy for me. Since I really don't like packaged mac and cheese, and hostess donuts are packed with hydrogenated oil (a contraband in our home). Pray for me my friends and for my sweet little girl to get over her fears.

So Glad

2009-10-07T17:17:00.000-07:00

Tonight I'm all by my lonesome while the baby sleeps and Jacob has meetings and basketball. Surprisingly, I have been cleaning much of the night away. I guess being in my second trimester has given me a burst of unexpected energy. We are preparing for a good, no, a great friend to come visit us this weekend; I guess that helps to motivate me too.
I put away my skinny clothes and got out my maternity clothes. I'm giving in to the comfy pants earlier than last time. I really don't care if I can fit into my normal jeans for my whole pregnancy. Don't ask me why I cared last time. I am also feeling the little kernel inside of me popping sooner than last time too. I love, love, love that feeling. It makes it so real. In all this quiet time I have thought about some things that make me glad.

So glad that I'm not a single parent.

So glad that we have good friends that let us borrow their clothes, their phone, their Mountain sports channel, their house, their time, oh and whatever else...

So glad that fall break is fast approaching.

So glad that Jacob got an internship for this summer, and a paid one at that.

So glad that I get to be a part of my family's big happenings next month (Lot's of weddings, 3 actually).

So glad for the beautiful weather that is fall.

So glad for a happy, smiley, non-stop little Luci. (Cookie Monster slippers: 2$ from goodwill)

(She is saying "cookie monster", who she used to think was Elmo)

And the list could go on, and on...

What's Cookin' Good lookin'

2009-10-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

Check out a cooking blog that I contribute to. Okay, so I'm the only contributor as of yet. My sisters in law are supposed to contribute too :)But I made some yummy dinner last night that you should try. It's deancooking.blogspot.com

oh yeah

2009-09-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

and don't forget to check out the new video in the video bar. it's laughy taffy for sure.

We Went

2009-09-25T09:26:00.000-07:00

To the Oktoberfest!

Can you tell that Luci was loving it?? Well, we enjoyed ourselves. As for Luci, I think that there were too many noises and too many people for her to be able to know what to think. German food is so good! Well, at least it smelled so good. Maybe someday we'll have a little cash to throw down at things like that. Someone please enjoy a strudel for me at an Oktoberfest near you.

We also went to a theme park nearby that is pretty much a state fair that never ends. Luci got to ride some of the smaller rides with some friends from our ward. Thanks for the tickets you guys! Again Luci looks like she is having so much fun! Well, I think she liked it. She especially liked the airplane one that she rode all by herself. But I couldn't get a very good picture of that one. This one on the other hand is priceless. These girls love Luci by the way. One time the younger one was talking to her dad about going to the museum with Luci. She said, "I love Luci dad". Her dad replied, "really?" and she said, " I love her so much, I want to marry her." Thank goodness for good friends!

Last Week

2009-09-14T15:27:00.000-07:00

I made some muffins last week. They have a ridiculously long ingredient list and I'm not sure what to call them. We'll just say they were Pear, zucchini, flax, banana muffins. Yummy, healthy snacks are a must have around our house. Mostly for me, since I am constantly hungry. Well, okay so is Luci. So if I don't make healthy snacks then we end up eating pretzel sticks and cheese everyday. Okay! We still eat those everyday too. Anyway. On with the story. So I put Luci on the back porch to eat her muffin while I cleaned up a little. I could hear Luci saying, "Mmm, Nummy, muffins, mmm, nummy, (pause for chewing), Mmm! Nummy, muffins." Literally the whole time she was eating. You could say I felt pretty good about my muffins. It's so fun to have a child that appreciates my cooking. A husband too.

Speaking of the husband. What a charmer he is. I'm glad that now you all know why I like him so much.