PANCAKE BREAKFAST

It's a tradition at Luca's preschool to have a pajama pancake breakfast every winter. This year some of the mom's did a little something extra special for the children. Thanks to Nola's great recipe we made true homemade buttermilk pancakes, complete with strawberries, blueberries and whipped cream. Of course there was OJ, bacon and other yummies. These kids got spoiled for sure and had a ton of fun. I love being able to participate in these kinds of events with my kids. It's pure joy to see such bliss on the little ones faces.

This is Luca's little buddy, Xander. They met last year in school and have been great buddies ever since.

I have been blessed today

Today I had a fabulous experience. One I was not expecting and one that I was completely overjoyed with. I had the privilege of hearing the tiny, strong, rapid heartbeat of the baby growing inside me. Now, I've had this experience before--hearing my baby's heartbeat for the first time--but this experience was different. It was a powerful, reassuring experience that life is a miracle and I am ever so blessed to be privileged to carry such a special spirit into this world. I have known I'm pregnant for quite some time now, but it never seemed real until today. I am not a super emotional person, but my eyes welled up with tears as I listened to the miracle that was created out of a special unique kind of love. What a simple thing, a heartbeat, yet it's the most complicated and complex system that allows such a comforting and miraculous sound. I was unsure, until today, when and how to tell the world surrounding me that I had been blessed with such a precious gift. I am not one who craves or cares for special attention, but every baby, every birth, every pregnancy is indeed a miracle and should be cherished for what it is--life. joy.love. Excitement and joy filled my soul as I thought of becoming a mother, yet again, to this unique and choice spirit child of our Heavenly Father. What an endearing, amazing thing it is to be a mother--the hardest, longest, frustrating, exhausting, beautiful, rewarding, and significant calling/job there is. I have been blessed today.

K-Town Arizona

We made a trip to Kingman so that we could visit the family up there. Surprisingly enough, everyone lives up there except Kirk, so we were able to see most of the family for a few days. It was a nice and enjoyable trip. It's always nice to go home and have your mommy take care of you right?? It as a fairly relaxing trip, minus the part when I got locked out of the house for an hour when it was only 35 degrees outside. BRRRR. I'm a wimp when it comes to the cold.



Kirk got my mom and Dad this elephant for Christmas a few years back and the grand kids love it. Acacia thought it was a fabulous toy and she loved to ride on it.

Poor Poor Inky. Acacia mauled Inky like I've never seen before. You'd think with having 3 cats at home she wouldn't be so thrilled to see another cat, but she couldn't leave Inky alone. If Inky was in sight, Acacia would stop doing anything and go chase her and lay on her. I kept having to remind her to "be soft", but it didn't matter too much what mom said, because Inky was Acacia's to have. Inky is 19 years old now, so she doesn't move very fast. I was amazed at how gentle she was when Acacia was pestering her. Inky was my first little girl, so I'm glad my oldest little girl and my newest little girl got to bond.

Acacia gets really excited to put sweaters on because it means going outside. I thought she looked super adorable when she put Luca's HG sweatshirt on. Acacia thought she was something else too because she walked around the room modeling it for everyone.

Grandpa Henry had a fun box to climb in and play with. This occupied Acacia for quite some time. I tell ya, it's the simple things in life that are the best.

A New Experience

Christmas has a totally different feeling when you're a little kid than when you're an adult. I remember the sleepless Christmas Eve nights when the anticipation of the next day was just too much to bear. Boyhow that changes when you're all grown up. But ever since Luca has been old enough get excited about Christmas, it has really brought that excitement back into the holiday. I know that Christmas has a very deep meaning for

most of us, but the excitement on my childrens' faces as they walk intothe living room is priceless. Having these two beautiful blessings in my life has helped me appreciate the simple things in life much more than I ever thought possible. The simpleness of their lives and the innocence of their actions and thoughts make life so much more enjoyable. I am grateful to be a mother and I am even more grateful to watch my children experience the fun and exciting moments of being a child. Christmas is one of those seasons that has truly become more enjoyable since I've had children. I am grateful for our Savior, for his loving example and for the innocence of our little ones as they learn the most important and simple concepts of being children.

This little girl was the happiest about her new bicycle. She couldn't get on it fast enough and we haven't been able to get her off it much since.

Happy Moments

I love it when Luca and Acacia find precious moments to bond. Luca loves to play with his dump trucks and Acacia discovered the joy in the simple things in life. It was darling to watch Acacia climb into the dump truck and Luca push her around for a fun ride. I thought having one child was amazing, but having two has been such a more rewarding experience because of the way they interact with each other. Their bonding is simple, joyful, innocent and so very precious. It's a gift as a mother that I never realized I'd have.

At least I tried

I really wanted to get some cute pictures of the kids dressed up on Christmas Sunday, but try as I did, I was unsuccessful. Neither child wanted to cooperate, but these were the ones that turned out the best. I bought this dress for Acacia a year ago and was eager to dress her in it. I am so grateful for such a beautiful time of year.

Blissful Noise

Luca had a preschool performance that he was very excited about. He is quite the performer and loves to sing loud so that everyone can hear his voice. It really makes my heart happy and puts a huge smile on my face to watch Luca grow into such an amazing little boy. He is so talented and loves people. He's the friendliest little child I know.

Santa Claus made a special visit to the preschool.


Here's Luca singing his heart out. He knew all the words and was very eager to get up and belt out the songs his class was singing.

Just a typical goofball picture of Luca being silly.

Mama's Little Helper

Tony just couldn't resist taking a picture when he saw his little angel go sit at the table to help Mommy sew some burp cloths for a baby shower. Acacia loves sitting at this table, and she really enjoys trying to help Mommy with any project. Unfortunately, Mommy isn't sure that Acacia is actually helping. Nonetheless, I love her company and I hope I can teach her a few things here and there.

Here Comes Santa Claus

Christmas 2008

Luca and Acacia got to sit on Santa's lap at the Ward Christmas party. Wow, they've grown up a lot since last year's photo. Thank goodness Santa didn't have his "naughty or nice" list because our little Luca would have been devastated to hear he was getting a lump o' coal for Christmas! Luca is a little maniac, a complete handful and despite all his craziness, we love him immensely.

Christmas 2007

THIS GIRL CAN EAT!!

OKAY, this little girl is somewhat serious about her food! This is her typical first breakfast of the day, minus the handful of cheerios that I didn't put on her tray yet. Her typical breakfast consists of: 2 eggs, a banana, and cheerios. Or, a bowl of oatmeal, banana and cheerios. She eats this about 7:45- 8:00 before Jazzercise, and then requires a snack of cheerios/fruit/or crackers about 9:00 just after arriving to Jazzercise. I'm telling you, she never stops eating! For those of you who know me very well, please note that the food on Acacia's tray are both foods that I despise for myself. I cannot stand bananas or eggs (unless they are hard-boiled). I have made a very wise choice to feed my children everything I don't like. I'm very grateful for that choice because both Luca and Acacia love everything I hate. Eggs, bananas, oranges and raisins.

There are a few rules that all should know about Acacia's feeding time:

1. When she's hungry, give it to her now! (or you'll be sorry)

2. Don't mess with her food!

3. If you're eating, you better be prepared to share with this little piggy or you'll never hear the end of it.

4. She doesn't want the foo foo food at mealtime anymore. It better be real food or else!

5. There must be a snack available at all times. To be unprepared with a snack could create a dramatic/traumatic tantrum.

6. Beware. This little girl EATS all the time!!

I don't think Acacia's belly is ever full. Thank goodness for a fast Varga metabolism.

Hiking the Forest Falls

We went for a fun little family hike to Forest Falls. We all had fun and there was only one little mishap (note last picture).

Acacia was thrilled to ride on Uncle Kenny's shoulders. Kenny originally put Luca on his shoulders and was running around with him making him laugh hysterically. Acacia thought it looked like so much fun that she followed Kenny around anxiously waiting a turn. She was ecstatic when it was her turn. What an awesome uncle. What an even awesomer (I'll make up a new word) brother!!

Daddy's little girl loved the hike. She didn't want to be held too much. She begged and pleaded every time we picked her up to be let down. It didn't seem like such a bad idea to let her roam around a little bit, but we were wrong. (Again, note the last picture).

Luca loved chasing around Uncle Kenny. Kenny is a lot of fun for my children.

This tree is hollowed out because it's been struck by lightning. It was an awesome tree, so we couldn't pass up the opportunity for a quick photo shoot. They are actually standing inside the trunk of the tree.

Look closely at the third eye in the middle of Acacia's forehead. She face planted right into a nice big rock. It broke my heart. She only screamed for about a minute and then wanted right back down to start exploring again. She loved collecting rocks. Actually it was holding a rock that calmed her down after her little mishap. The rock made everything all better. She's such an outdoors little girl. I guess she was born into the right family.

Cousin Bonding Time

There's never a dull moment when the cousins are around!! Kirsten, Keith (my older bro), Eliot and Quincy came down for a visit over Thanksgiving break. We love it when family visits--even though it can be a bit exciting and dramatic when there are a lot of people in our quaint little home.

Acacia and Quincy are exactly 6 weeks apart. They had fun playing together, but I don't think Quincy ever got used to Acacia's desire to poke, prod and hug her. Acacia loves other children and babies. I am always reminding her to be "SOFT". She gets really excited by other children, and Quincy seemed to be someone who really sparked Acacia's interest. One day these little angels will be the best of friends!

Here's my little Indian and Eliot the turkey. We had a lot of fun with Eliot. She is one of the smartest little ladies I know. Luca loves Eliot and is very protective of her. It's really special to watch their interaction. She is really good with Acacia too. My children absolutely love their cousins!

Bright Red Hair and Big Blue Eyes. Can you get any cuter?

Growing Up With Jazzercise

I started with this great form of exercise back in 2004. Luca was almost 5 months old and I had a few more prego pounds to loose, so I said "what the heck" and went with a friend who invited me. I didn't think there was a chance I'd enjoy group exercise, but I guess 4 and a half years later I can safely assume I was wrong. I love Jazzercise. Luca grew has grown up going and knows it's part of Mommy's regular routine. Acacia has been going since she was about 3 weeks old. I think one of the greatest things about taking my children with me is that they see the importance of exercise--and that it can be fun. Acacia has been dancing since she was a tiny infant and she has always responded to music. I blame that on the fact that I was dancing my way though my entire pregnancy with her. She loves Jazzzercise and it's common routine for her to always come out of the nursery after class and go straight for my water bottle and my Jazzercise bag. Luca and Acacia have bonded with all my Jazzercise buddies and it's like their second home. The awesome thing about Jazzercise is that even though I've been doing it for a long time now, it still kicks my BUTT!!

This Blog Has Been Invaded!!

Hello everyone this is Tony!
Janice has been doing a wonderful job with her blog, but I thought I would take a moment to invade it. I have read on another blog, yes yours Dana, that most people think blogs are used by mothers to brag about their children. We have two wonderful children and there is a lot to brag about with them, but that is not why I am invading. All bragging aside, I wanted to take up some space to let everyone know how great my children's mother is. She asked me the question a while ago "why do you love me?". The thoughts started going through my head a million miles an hour "...for every reason that there is...", "...because you are a wonderful person...", "...because you are a great mother...", but I could not put together words that expressed my true love, only generic sounding phrases that made her give me that look. I stumbled across the following and thought yea, thats it! Janice I love you, please enjoy.

Does Love need a Reason......?
Once a lady when having a conversation with her lover, asked:
Lady : Why do you like me..? Why do you love me?
Man : I can't tell the reason.. but I really like you..
Lady : You can't even tell me the reason... how can you say you like me? How can you say you love me?
Man : I really don't know the reason, but I can prove that I love you.
Lady : Proof? No! I want you to tell me the reason. My friend's boyfriend can tell her why he loves her but not you!
Man : Ok..ok!!! Erm... because you are beautiful,
because your voice is sweet,
because you are caring,
because you are loving,
because you are thoughtful,
because of your smile,
because of your every movements.
The lady felt very satisfied with the man's answer.
Unfortunately, a few days later, the Lady met with an accident and went in comma.
The Guy then placed a letter by her side, and here is the content:
Darling,
Because of your sweet voice that I love you...
Now can you talk? No! Therefore I cannot love you.
Because of your care and concern that I like you..
Now that you cannot show them, therefore I cannot love you.
Because of your smile,
because of your every movements that I love you..
Now can you smile? Now can you move?
No, therefore I cannot love you...
If love needs a reason, like now,
There is no reason for me to love you anymore.
Does love need a reason? NO!
Therefore, I still love you...and will always love you....

When The Park Calls. . .We Come Running

Since there is a small park across the street from our house, we find that it beckons to our children--a lot. Luca is always asking to go ride his bike at the park, and Acacia has gotten to where she begs to go outside.

Luca is a speed demon on his bike. He loves to show off and ride really fast. What a stud!

Acacia loves the swing. It brings lots of grins and giggles.

Luca has gotten to be quite good at riding his scooter. It used to make me nervous when he'd ride it, but now he just has a blast, and zips around the corners at super speed. He's such a boy.

This is one of Acacia's newest things. She loves to push herself on this little tricycle. She's obviously way too small for it, but it doesn't keep her from trying to ride it. She loves her helmet and will sit on the bike and scoot herself forward. Nothing makes her happier than being outside playing with Luca on the bikes and his truck.

There she goes--kind of.

So Long Soccer

Luca's soccer season ended last weekend. Luca was kind of bummed, but was ecstatic when he got his soccer medal from his coach. He had a little party the day of his last game. The team had a great time, ate a lot of pizza and then went and kicked some tooshie in their last game. Luca played really well and the team one their final game. Yeah!!

We are so proud of our little rugrat. He's awesome. I love you Stinker Bug!

OOOH LA LA!!

Okay, this little lady is seriously out of control. One morning I came out of the shower and found that my lovely, darling, sweet, innocent daughter had gotten into one of my drawers and pulled out a pair of flamed g-string underwear and put it over her head. The first thing I did, after laughing of course, was grab the camera. So, here is my sweet precious darling with a g-string around her neck. Silly girl!

Thanksgiving for Tiny Tots

The Thanksgiving party

at Luca's preschool was

loads of fun for all the

tiny tots. There was

a lot of yummy food and

cool art projects. Luca

and I made turkey

cupcakes to share.

(Thanks Alice!) Luca

really enjoyed making

a beaded necklace and

his Indian hat. His

Indian name was

Stinker Bug. I made

a hat for Acacia too and

she loved it. She was

my little Stinker Beetle.

She wore the hat a lot

and boy was she

adorable. Luca and his

friends made shakers

out of old water bottles

and they made music

with them. Acacia

thought that was fun

too, and she got a

shaker of her own to

play with. These

two children are so

adorable together.

I love the way they

interact and how much

fun they have together.