McGee's

Eighteen Months

2012-01-12T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
I am 18 months old.

I weigh 23 pounds and I'm 31.5 inches tall.

I can do lots of things. I am starting to say lots of words. I like to play with my babies. I like to do whatever the big-people are doing. Santa brought me a play kitchen. I like to pretend to be mommy making dinner and feeding my baby. Santa also brought me a little stroller for pushing my baby around. Aunt Brittany gave me a little pink purse so I can pretend to be mommy.

Daddy is still my very most favorite person ever. I love Saturday's when he gets to stay home with us. I like when he reads stories to me and I like to snuggle with him at bedtime. Daddy is trying to teach me to say my prayers, I usually just fold my arms and say "A.....MEnnn..." really loud.

I got to go to nursery on Sunday. I have been trying to get Daddy to take me in there FOREVER. THEY HAVE TOYS IN THERE!!! I especially liked the bubbles. I am excited to go again this Sunday.

The other day I was at the store with Mommy and we saw a pretty princess wand. I was very excited about it so Mommy gave it to me. A lady at the store said, "She is definitely a girl." I showed her that I am Benjamin's sister by pointing the wand at Mommy and saying "On Guard!"

Well, I don't really have too much else to say so I guess I will let you go.
Thanks for reading,
Brianna

Adventures in Pharmacuticals...

2012-01-09T17:52:00.000-07:00

Today started out like any ordinary Monday...

At 9am I decided to pick up my meds from Smiths on the way to aerobics. When I got there, after waiting in line for about 10 minutes, I was told that they didn't have a prescription for me. I had called last night and used there automated system to order a refill. For some reason, they did not receive my order. I decided that I would just get it refilled somewhere else. By the time we finally left the store, it was too late for me to go to aerobics so we went home. I planned on getting my empty medicine bottle and taking it to Walgreens. However, Brianna fell asleep in the car and Ben needed to do his homework so we just stayed home.

After a long search for Ben's shoes, glasses, coat, & backpack, I took him to school and headed for Walgreens. Of course they didn't have any carts available so I had to carry Brianna all the way to the back of the store where they fill prescriptions. I gave the bottle to the girl at the counter and asked if they could fill it for me. She said it wouldn't be a problem. I told her that I had never filled anything there before and she might need my information. I gave her an insurance card and answered a bunch of questions about any meds I'm allergic to and what happens when I take said drugs. Finally, she said everything looked great and it would be about an hour. I decided to stay there and wait.

A little over 2 hours later, I had to leave to go get Ben from school. By then, my arms were about to fall off from carrying Brianna around. I had tried putting her down but she kept running away and pulling things off the shelves etc.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that I have had a terrible headache since Friday (allergies, sinuses etc)...

So anyway, I get Ben from school and drive back to Walgreens. In the car I tell him, I'm "not going to buy any treats or toys, so don't even ask." We get in the store and I grab the first cart I see. I'm sorry to the old lady who may, or may not have been using it at the time. I put both kids in the cart because I'm not taking any chances. We march to the back of the store where, of course, there is a long line of people. I wait my turn and then ask if they are done with my prescription. For some reason, in the amount of time I was gone, a new person is now working at the counter. He types on the computer for a bit and then tells me, as he is walking away, that the total is $47.83! I said, "I don't think that's right..." He types on the computer a little and asks if I have an insurance card "It looks like we need to update our info on you." Seriously? It needs to be updated since 4 hours ago?

Anyway I give him my card and after typing on the computer for a while and then going in the back for a while he finally tells me, that they don't accept my insurance.

So I ask if I can have the bottle back so that I can go somewhere else to get it filled. He looks at me like that is that weirdest thing anyone has ever asked for. Of course, he has to go back in the back and then after a while he comes back with some other guy who hands me a piece of paper. They had peeled the label off of my prescription bottle and then taped it, in pieces, to another paper they had also made a large X across the whole thing and written something like, "no longer valid..." on it.

I take this paper and head for the door.

So I decided to just go back to Smiths. I walk up to the counter and tell the lady about my experience...She types on the computer for a while, calls someone else over who also types on the computer for a while...finally she tells me they should be able to get it filled in about 10 minutes. I decide to sit down and wait. After about 20 minutes, which felt more like 100 minutes with Brianna pulling everything off all the shelves and Ben having to go potty about 13 times, I went to the counter to ask how much longer it would be. The lady told me that they had to call Walgreens to get my prescription transferred back over to them and that it would probably be a while.

At that point, I decided to just go home. I, once again, put both kids in a shopping cart (again, sorry old lady) and headed for the door.

I finally get both kids buckled into the car and start to back out of the parking space when I hear honking. Some person was waiting to take my parking spot but didn't want to wait for me to get out of it first (fyi, I'm driving Josh's car-standard transmission, no power steering-). JERK!!! Doesn't he know that I am having a crappy day and I have a headache and two fussy hungry tired kids, one of them needing to go potty for the millionth time since we left the school!

So here I sit in a messy house, with a huge headache and NO MEDS!!!

Why do these things always happen to me?

On Joseph

2011-12-19T15:49:00.001-07:00

Yesterday in Primary, our chorister sang a beautiful song called "When Joseph went to Bethlehem." I had never thought before about things from Joseph's point-of-view. I think we can learn a lot from Joseph. He was willing to raise and care for this child of whom he was not the father. I never really thought much about it before but I'm sure he had to help Mary deliver the baby; there wasn't anyone else there. And then later while she rested, of course he would have cared for Jesus.

I love the words of the song:
"I think there in the busy inn that he was meek and mild. And awed to be the guardian of Mary's sacred child. Perhaps all through the chilly hours he smoothed the swaddling bands and Jesus felt the quiet strength of Joseph's gentle hands."
I can picture Josh the first time he held each of our kids. I know exactly the feelings Mary must have had as she observed those strong arms gently comforting, soothing, and protecting the savior.

I can only imagine the spiritual feeling that must have been felt in that tiny stable so long ago.

When Joseph Went to Bethlehem

When Joseph went to Bethlehem
I think he took great care
To place his tools and close his shop
And leave no shavings there.
He urged the donkey forward,
Then, with Mary on its back,
And carried bread and goat cheese
In a little linen sack.

I think there at the busy inn

That he was meek and milk
And awed to be the guardian
Of Mary's sacred Child.
Perhaps all through the chilly hours
He smoothed the swaddling bands,
And Jesus felt the quiet strength of
Joseph's gentle hands.

And close beside the manger bed
He dimmed the lantern's light,
And held the little Jesus close upon
That holy night.

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-18T09:14:00.001-07:00

Rough Year

2011-12-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

I have had some pretty big struggles this past year. I usually try to keep my blog upbeat and happy so I haven't written much about this.

About this time of year 2 years ago, I found out I was pregnant. I had just barely been accepted to Graduate school (BYU & U of U) and I felt my entire world, everything I had worked so hard for, being ripped away. Due to morning sickness, I had to withdraw from my final semester. As a result, I no longer qualified for Graduate school. From there, I began to spiral down further and further into a dark black depression. A black hole that had many entrances but no exits.

I found myself skipping church a lot. Mostly because I was so sick but also partly because it took so much work and energy to pretend to be okay, to make people think I was happy.

A few short month later, my dad died. I sat on the floor in his hospital room not knowing what to do. Josh helped my brother-in-law give Dad a blessing. I knew at that moment, that my Daddy was going to die. My heart broke as a slipped further into the blackness.

I began to feel lost and alone, so very alone.

After my dad's funeral, I often found myself sitting and staring and nothing. I would sit for countless hours doing nothing at all. Soon I started talking to myself saying things like, "Your house is a huge mess" You can't even do he simplest things" You are not important"...

It wasn't long before I started believing these statements.

By the time Brianna was born, I was so far into the black hole that I didn't think I would ever get out. And I had begun hating myself so much that I felt I didn't deserve to get out.

After Brianna was born, my Dr prescribed an antidepressant for me. For a while, I felt better, not great, but better.

I went back to school and finished my degree. Although, this is something I have wanted to do for ever, somehow, it felt as though I was just going through the motions. Sometimes I felt like I was watching somebody else live my life. Not really participating, not really living.

Just after we moved here, I hit rock-bottom. I was completely unable to function. I thought about killing myself almost daily. I had no desire or motivation to do anything.

One day I heard an advertisement on the radio for a place that was doing research on Depression. I called the number and scheduled an appointment.

Long story-short, I qualified for the study and I was supposed to have a phone interview to get everything set up. I waited all day and no one called. Finally I called the research facility and was told that the study had been discontinued. Because I had qualified for the study, I was entitled to 2 free sessions with their Psychiatrist.

I few days later I went in to see this Dr. He was running late so I had to wait in the waiting room for a bit. Then he came and got me. As we entered his office, his cell phone rang. He answered it and talked to his wife for 5 minutes. Then he hung up and, without apologizing, said that his wife was going to get fired from her job and he had to take that call to give her important information about their lawyer.

Finally, he asked me to explain my situation. As I was telling him about my dad dying, he received and answered several text messages. He never looked at me through the entire interview. Finally he said "well, based on what you have told me, this is what I recomend.

I barely made it to the car before I burst into tears. What was I going to do? The voices in head began saying "See, no one cares" "No one wants to help you." "You aren't even worth his time."

I got home and began looking for a new Psychiatrist. I called number after number being told that all these Dr's were not accepting new patients. A few places said they couldn't schedule appointments until you filled-out their forms. They would send me an email containing a document saying that I would pay for my appointments.

So every Dr was either too busy for me or only wanted my money.

Later that day, I found myself with a knife in my right hand and a large cut in my left hand. I had cut myself, on purpose. I really don't remember doing it or why, except that somehow I thought the voices telling me I'm stupid and no one cares would somehow go away...

After that, I was scared! I didn't know what to do. I asked Josh to give me a blessing.

I made an appointment with the Resident I had seen in my screening for the research study.

I went to the appointment, had to take both kids with me. I looked at the Dr and said, "I can't go on like this anymore." I need help.

This Dr gave me a new prescription to try and told me to come back in a week. I took the new meds.

The new meds made me feel panicky all the time. I couldn't sleep, I couldn't focus.

I went back to the Resident and explained my situation. He decided to increase the dosage on the meds. I tried it for a few weeks having crazing mood swings, UPS and DOWNS and TONS of anxiety.

Finally I returned to the Resident and asked him if we could try something different. He prescribed two different antidepressants.

I had my perscription filled and began the new meds.

Within days, I felt like I could finally breath again. I guess I didn't even realize that I hadn't been breathing before.

I feel that I have carefully climbed my way out of the blackness. Those voices in my head tell me "I'm doing by best" It's okay to have a bad day" You are NOT stupid!"

Anyway, as this blog is kind of my journal, I wanted to write this all out. Not to make people feel sad but to document something that our family went through and hopefully, it will help someone else somewhere down the road.

Who ya gonna call...

2011-12-05T14:34:00.001-07:00

On Saturday Josh and I were at the mall in Provo and decided to look at getting new phones. We have been talking about doing this for a while as both of our phones are eligible for upgrades. We found the ones we wanted at Radio Shack and had to get them then/there because the one Josh wanted was only on sale for that day.

So the guy spent about an hour typing away on the computer and stuff then said "I'm going to go get them I'll be right back." A while later, a different guy walks over to us with 4 boxes and says "We are all out of that phone but I do have these other ones." I told them that I really wanted the phone I had originally selected. So guy number ones comes back and starts looking on the computer. He tells us that the only store in Utah that has that phone (the one he had previously told us is really popular and they have tons of them) is in Midvale. Josh and I had no idea where Midvale is but the guy said it wasn't far. So guy number 2 gets on the phone to call the Midvale store to see if they actually have the phone. The girl in Midvale says they do but that she isn't allowed to hold it for people. Guy number 2 has her check with a manager and they finally decide that it will be okay.

By now we have been standing at the store for almost an hour.

So guy number 1 starts ringing up Josh's phone. He says we will need to get new Sim cards because the ones we have won't work for the new phones. Then he realized that the Sim card in my old phone would work in my new phone (the one that is at the other store). So Josh had to go out to the car to get my old phone. While Josh is gone, guy number 2 tells me that when we upgrade we will lose our Unlimited Data plan. I tell him that the only reason we are staying with AT&T is because of that plan. He calls the manager (who supposedly had gone home but was somehow able to get to the store before Josh returned) who came over to help make sure that we didn't lose any of our previous coverage.

Josh comes back. We have now been at the store for over an hour.

Josh picks up the contract for his new phone and realizes that they didn't add the new text messaging plan that guy number 2 had told us we could get. Guy number 1 says that is because that plan is only available on new contracts. Because guy number 1 told us we could have it, they get the manager on the phone and he tells them what to do. Finally they finish Josh's phone and begin working on mine. It is then that they realize that removing the Sim card from my old phone will make it stop working.

So after spending over 2 hours standing at the counter at Radio Shack, we leave with 1 working phone.

Today, after I dropped Ben at school I drove to Midvale. It took me about 40 minutes to get there and find the Radio Shack. I walked up to the counter and the guy, who was standing there doing nothing, told me "I'll be right with you." He then went up to every other person in the store and asked if they needed help with anything before he returned to the counter to help me. I thought that was weird but didn't think much of it.

I told him that I had bought a phone in Provo and needed to pick it up. The guy looked at my paper work for a while then typed on the computer for a while, then finally said, "Well, let me go see if we have any of these."
Wait, hadn't I already purchased it? They have to have it!

A while later he returned with my new phone. I then asked him if they have any cases for them, because the guys in Provo said that you do not want to use this phone without a case. He told me that there is no such thing as a case for this particular phone.

After typing on the computer for a while, he asked if I had my Sim card. I gave it to him. He put it in the phone and waited for a while. Then he told me that my old Sim card would not work with my new phone. Then he asked me for my ID. I gave it to him and he told me that I am not permitted to make any changes on the account. I told him taht I don't want to make changes, I just want to pick up the phone that I had already paid for. He told me that I can take the phone but that it will not work until I get a new Sim card and that he cannot give me a new Sim card without Josh's permission.

So now, here I sit 3 days later with 2 phones. Neither of them work. Neither of them will even turn on.

What did I do to deserve this!

It's begining to look a lot like...

2011-11-29T14:20:00.001-07:00

Just a few more things I can check-off on my getting-ready-for-Christmas to-do list..
1. Tree & decorations in living room

2. Front porch decorations/lights

Christmas Card

2011-11-27T22:07:00.001-07:00

I just finished our Christmas card for this year. I absolutely LOVE our new family pictures by-the-way. I guess that's one thing I can check-off on my getting-ready-for-Christmas to-do list...sigh...

Thankful

2011-11-23T13:26:00.001-07:00

I just thought I would take a minute to list a few of the things I am Thankful for...

1. I am so very thankful for my Heavenly Father who loves me unconditionally
a) I am thankful for Temples and that I can be sealed to my amazing husband forever
b) I am thankful for the sacrament and that I can have the opportunity to "start over" every week.

2. I am thankful for my husband
    a) I am thankful that he loves me no matter what
    b) I am thankful that he makes me feel special and important
    c) I am thankful that he makes dinner, cleans the house, and folds the laundry whenever I ask him to

3. I am thankful for Benjamin
    a) I am thankful for his hugs, kisses, and smile
    b) I am thankful for the funny things he says

4. I am thankful for Brianna
    a) I am thankful for her smile & giggle
    b) I am thankful for her kisses

5. I am thankful for my family, especially for sisters who are always there for me

6. I thankful for my ward family.
    a) For people who are willing to loan me tables and chairs.
    b) For people who are willing to watch my kids for me.
    c) And most of all, for people who are willing to be my friend.

I hope that everyone will take just a moment this week to think of all the things we have to be grateful for.

Blessings

2011-11-18T12:09:00.001-07:00

I just finished this blessing dress for my super-cute little niece. I am so happy about the way it turned out. Sorry the pictures aren't so great, I had to use my phone because my big camera is broken.

I left the ribbons long in the back so that they can be trimmed to whatever length my sister wants.

The back actually has snaps, I just stitched these cute heart buttons on to make it cuter. I used yellow thread to match the ribbon.

And here is a close-up of the front.

I have had SO much fun working on this dress. Thanks Betsy for letting me do this for you, I hope it is what you wanted.

Oh, and here is a picture of my niece Lillian (Lilly) who will be wearing the dress.

Another ER Trip

2011-11-04T12:46:00.000-06:00

Here is the story of the exciting day we had yesterday.

I went to check on Brianna on Wednesday night to find her sound asleep in her own vomit. Josh and I cleaned her up and put her back to bed.

On Thursday, she woke up with a fever (I couldn't actually take her temperature because our thermometer got flushed down the toilet a couple weeks ago). I gave her some Tylenol but them she threw-up about 20ish minutes later.

For some reason, I just had a feeling that something was wrong. I called our pediatrician and explained to the nurse that Brianna was limp and seemed to be struggling to stay awake. I was afraid to give her more tylenol because I didn't know how much she had actually ingested. The nurse told me to take her to the ER.

This is what Brianna looked like when we arrived. Her temperature, in spite of the Tylenol, was 101.9. She hardly moved when the nurses were taking her vital signs.

A Dr finally came in and told me we had 2 options. He said they could give her same nausea medicine and send us home to see what happens, or they could do some blood work and give her an IV. I told him that, although I know it sounded crazy, I opted for option 2. I just felt that there was something wrong and waiting would only make it worse.

A while later, he came back to tell me that I had been right to bring her in. She had a kidney infection.

We don't know if the vomiting was because she was in pain, or if it was a symptom of the infection. We are also not sure if she had gone so long without having a wet diaper because she was dehydrated, or if she was just simply holding it because it hurt.

Anyway, these last two pictures are from after the IV fluids and some antibiotics. She was back to her active cute little self by the time we left the hospital (about 4 hours later).

Happy Haunting

2011-11-02T21:50:00.000-06:00

Those lop-sided pig-tails just make me smile!

Well, because my camera is broken ): These are the only pictures I have from Halloween this year. A lady from our ward was taking pictures at the school carnival. She emailed these to me this morning.

Dads and Daughters

2011-10-27T22:20:00.000-06:00

I just read this in a book and it made me cry:

To Dads,
"When you hear the first whimper in the night, go to the nursery and leave your wife sleeping. Pock in a chair, walk the floor, sing a lullaby so that she will know a man can be gentle.

When Mother is away for the evening,come home from work, do the babysitting. Learn to cook a hotdog or a pot of spaghetti, so that your daughter will know a man can serve another's needs.

When she performs in school plays or dances in recitals, arrive early, sit in the front seat, devote your full attention. Clap the loudest, so that she will know a man can have eyes for only her.

When she asks for a tree house, don't just build it, but build it with her. Sit high among the branches and talk about clouds, and caterpillars, and leaves. Ask her about her dreams and wait for her answers, so that she will know a man can listen.

When you pass by her door as she dresses for a date, tell her she is beautiful. Take her on a date yourself. Open doors, buy flowers, look her in the eye, so that she will know a man can respect her.

When she moves away from home, send a card, write a note, call on the phone. If something reminds you of her, take a minute to tell her, so that she will know a man can think of her even when she is away.

Tell her you love her, so that she will know a man can say the words.

If you hurt her, apologize, so that she will know a man can admit that he's wrong...

A daughter grows up quickly, there isn't time to waste."

I have heard that girls are likely to marry a man who is very much like her father. How much would the world change if fathers followed the simple directions on this list, and daughters realized that they deserve to be treated like the beautiful daughters of our Heavenly Father that they are?

I remember a couple of times I went out on "dates" with my dad. He would open doors for me and look at me as I talked. He never made me feel like he wasn't interested in what I had to say.

When Josh and I were dating, there were several times when he would say or do something that reminded me of my "dad-dates." With the standard my dad had set for what a man can, and should, be, I don't think I could have ever settled for anything less. Josh is, by far, the most amazing guy I have ever met.

I hope that he will show Brianna, just as my dad did for me, that she deserves a man who is just as amazing as he is.

Conference

2011-10-06T14:20:00.002-06:00

I just registered for this conference and I'm pretty darn excited about it. The keynote speaker is Jim Fay (the author of Parenting with Love and Logic). I think I have mentioned before how much I love his books (as well as how they have prevented me from killing my child). I heard about this conference a while back and I am so happy that it is finally here!!!

Another one of the speakers, Dr Jim Bird is one of my very most favorite professors of all time (I went to Weber State University for a year before I got married and moved to Logan/USU). I am excited to hear from him again.

So anyway, I'm really excited and I hope to learn a lot!

Birthday

2011-10-01T18:58:00.000-06:00

Today would have been my dad's 67th Birthday. I keep wondering, when does it get easier?

8 Years...

2011-09-06T10:26:00.001-06:00

Eight years ago today, my sister Margaret and I were baptized as members of the LDS church.
I have been trying to remember specific things that happened that day. I can't remember the things that were said by the speakers. I do remember our beautiful Bishop Hansen and the things he said to us. He asked us to stand and turn around. He wanted us to see how many people had come to support us that day. There were a lot of people there, they were all smiling. Then Bishop Hansen told us that each of these people were our brothers and sisters. I felt so loved.

Soon it was time for us to head to the Baptismal font. I remember Margaret grabbed my hand; we went together. I stepped down into the water first. A very dear friend of mine baptized me. As he said the words of the ordinance, I was overcome with the spirit (so overcome, in fact, that I forgot to plug my nose). As I came up out of the water, I looked around at all those smiling faces, my friends, my family.

I think of all the things I have gone through since that day, the good, the bad, and the amazing...I will forever be grateful to my sister Margaret, my brother Ben, the missionaries who taught me, Bishop Hansen, and my 19th ward family.

Kindergarten

2011-08-29T14:31:00.004-06:00

Well today was my very first day of Kindergarten and I LOVED IT! My very favorite thing about Kindergarten is Snack Time. My second favorite thing is story time. Mrs. Montgomery read a story called "The Gingerbread Man." It was about a gingerbread guy who says, "Run, run as fast-as-you-can. You can't catch me, I'm the Gingerbread Man." I really liked that story. My number three favorite thing about Kindergarten was playing outside. I played with everybody.

I got to wear this cool backpack that Sister Johnson gave me. She was my teacher when I was in Sunbeams. I really miss her.

I am sure excited to go to school again tomorrow.
I am going to make lots of new friends and I really like Mrs. Montgomery (even if I can't really pronounce her name yet).

Just for Fun

2011-08-22T11:44:00.000-06:00

Projects

2011-08-18T21:29:00.000-06:00

I am working on organizing and decorating the kids bedrooms. It is so nice to have them in separate rooms now.

This is all the fabric Ben picked for his quilt that I am making.

He wasn't sure which color he liked best...so he just picked ALL of them.

And here is the fabric a picked for Brianna's room.

I really like it...especially the big-pink-dots.

Stay tuned, more pictures to come (;

The Interview

2011-08-02T22:00:00.000-06:00

First, I filled out an application and then waited..and waited...and waited some more and then someone finally called at 9:00pm yesterday to schedule an interview! And then I got very NERVOUS!!!

And then I realized I had to get a babysitter! I called everyone I could think of. Finally my little brother agreed to drive my mom here. I went to bed. The next morning, I received a text message from my brother stating that they would not be able to come. I proceeded to call the 2 people I have met in our new ward. First person I called, no answer (found out later they are out-of-town this week). Second person already had plans for the day and couldn't do it. I called Josh (almost in tears) to ask if he could come home for a couple hours to watch the kids. He said he would try to figure it out. As soon as I hung up, the second ward person called back to tell me she had talked with her neighbor and they could watch the kids.

As I was deciding what to wear, my daughter's diaper failed us all and there was poop all over Brianna and the floor. I put her in the bath while I attempted to fix my hair. I also spent some time trying to decide if people would notice my mustache and then Ben climbed in the bath with all his clothes on getting me all wet. I finally got myself, Benjamin, and Brianna dressed when she decided to vomit all over my interview clothes.

I called Josh to tell him he would have to come home and take care of the kids as I thought Brianna was sick. Of course, he was late getting here and I was so nervous about what they might ask that I missed my exit and then I had to drive on a really scary road where I almost hit a cow.

I finally arrived at the interview place and the interview lady come to get me and then she asked a lot of questions. She gave me her email address and asked me to send her a list of references that she could call. I got home and tried to email her but it wouldn't work. I called and told her I couldn't get it to work. She asked me to just give her the names/numbers over the phone. I gave her the information.

And then...she decided hire someone else.

The Joy of being a Homeowner

2011-07-15T09:57:00.000-06:00

I just want to take a minute and share our ~~NIGHTMARE~~ err umm experiences in home buying...

We were supposed to close on the house on Monday (July 11th) at 4pm. We also had a final walk-through of the house scheduled at 3pm. We arrived at the house to find our agent sitting on the front step. The sellers agent had removed the lockbox with the key inside it and failed to mention to us that we would be unable to get inside for the walk-through. After sitting in the front step for about 45 minutes, the agent arrived with a key and we were able to get inside.

While we were in the house, our agent received a call from our broker letting him know that we were not going to be able to close that day and we needed to sign an addendum extending our settlement date to the next day. So we rushed through the house and raced off the our agents office to get the paperwork signed. So after spending the entire day in Salt Lake, we were told to go home and come back Tuesday at 1pm.

On Tuesday we were told that they weren't sure it would go though but that we should just wait and see. After once again spending the entire day in Salt Lake and my husband taking a second vacation day, our broker called to tell us that she had made a minor error on the paperwork and we needed to sign something. We raced over to the real estate office again and signed it. Our Realtor then called the broker only to be told that she had "left the office and would be back in an hour...or so." Our agent was able to get the paperwork faxed to the sellers agent who had the sellers sign it and then got it off the the title company.

We were finally able to close at 7:45pm (the lady at the title company stayed late just for us). She explained that because our broker had made a mistake in the good-faith estimate (she had failed to add some charge on there), we would be given a $1025.00 credit and the brokers company would just have to eat the difference. It was kind of nice to learn that even though we had been through a lot, we didn't have to pay as much money up front.

On Wednesday, I had to have our down-payment and closing costs wired to the title company because our broker had failed to tell us before hand that we had to have a cashiers check. The bank here told me that I had to go to the extension in Logan to do that. So I borrowed my brother's car and drove to Logan to find out that there is a $20 charge for wiring. I went ahead and did it anyway. About five minutes after I left the bank, our broker called to tell me that we actually did need to pay that $1025.00 more. Just as I was walking into the bank to order the second transfer, the broker called back. She wanted to let me know that she had decided that because it was actually her mistake, she would go ahead and just eat the extra money. She actually said, "because, I don't want you to have bad feelings toward me or my company."

Our agent was supposed to get the house keys to Josh by 3pm. Josh had to leave work to go home at 4pm and still hadn't heard from anyone about the keys. We finally recieved a call at about 5pm that our agent had the keys and would bring them to Josh on Thursday.

On Thursday, our agent met Josh at work and gave him ONE house key. We are supposed to try to get a hold of the seller to see if they have any other keys.

So anyway, we are officially homeowners. Hopefully once we get all settled in, all this will have been worth it. Oh and if anyone wants to help with moving, we will be loading the truck in Brigham at 10am tomorrow and plan to be unloading in West Valley at about 4pm.

Birthday!!!

2011-07-12T08:42:00.000-06:00

Hey Everyone,

It is my Birthday. Mommy can't believe it has been a whole year already. I now weigh 19 lbs 8.5 oz and I'm almost 29 inches tall.

I'm still working on learning to walk. I can stand all by myself without holding anything. But I think that taking steps, without a big person holding my hand, is just too scary. Besides, crawling is WAY faster.

I like to talk and sing a lot. At church I hold the hymnal and wave my arm while I sing really loud. I also like to sing while I'm eating my dinner and in the car and...well pretty much everywhere.

So, my mommy and daddy decided that we should live in a different house now. I really like is because I get to have my own room. I like going up all the stairs, I'm not too sure about coming down by myself yet though. We also have a big yard now. I like playing in the sandbox and swinging on the swings. Sometimes Daddy even helps me go down the slide.

For my Birthday, we had cake and icecream at Grandma-Great's house. I picked a cake that had pink flowers on it. I got REALLY messy.

After the cake, Mommy gave me some presents to open. I got some cool new toys and some clothes. I think I like Birthday's.

I was going to add some pictures of our new house but I can't find them on this computer. I'll ask Mommy to help me and maybe we can show you our new house later today.

Six Years

2011-06-30T08:55:00.002-06:00

I can't believe it's been six years since I tricked the most amazing man I have ever met into marrying me.

For some reason he still puts up with me and for that, I will be forever grateful. I love him so much more now than I did on that beautiful day.

Our House...in the middle of Our Street..

2011-06-22T11:46:00.002-06:00

Front: I plan to paint the shutters and front door a different color (Not exactly in love with the brown) and plant some lilacs and tulips and maybe another tree or two...

I am planning on some potted plants, (perhaps some herbs that will smell yummy) and some hanging ones as well...

Front door

Living room

Family Room

Kitchen with PANTRY

Dining Room

Master Bedroom

Master Bathroom

Brianna's Bedroom (minus Spiderman on the walls)

Main Bathroom

Benjamin's Bedroom

Laundry and Downstairs Bathroom

Backyard/Garden

Backyard/Swing-set

Driveway/Garage

Movin' Movin'

2011-06-21T14:03:00.004-06:00

First box all packed! One cupboard emptied!!!

I can't believe this is really gonna happen...We actually have a house with a pantry and food storage space!!!

This is what Brianna does while I work!

Eleven Months

2011-06-13T09:49:00.001-06:00

Well Everyone,

I am 11-months old. Mommy can't believe it's almost my Birthday. I now weigh 19 pounds, 5 ounces. I'm not sure how tall I am. I like crawling EVERYWHERE. I especially like going up the stairs. I'm working on going down the stairs without help; it's a little scary. I can stand up all by myself without holding anything and I've tried taking a few steps but crawling is just so much faster.

I have started saying a few words and I really like waving, clapping, and pointing.

Last week I went to Aunt Betsy's house and got to play in the pool. It was WAY more fun that a bath. I didn't like when Benjamin splashed me though.

We went to the zoo this month. That was pretty fun. I got to see some neat animals and ride in my stroller. I kind of got a sunburn and I did not like that at all.

Mommy says we are going to be moving to a new house soon. I'm not so sure about that; I like this house. I can go up the stairs all by myself, I can open all the drawers in the bathroom (and get into stuff) I can pull all the pans out of the cupboard in the kitchen. I am pretty excited about having my own room. My Grandma even gave me a new big-girl bed, but mommy doesn't think I'm quite ready for that yet.
Well, it's time for my nap. I'll see you all next month at my birthday party!

Love,
Brianna

5 Years

2011-06-11T09:00:00.002-06:00

Hi everyone,
I am five! Here are some things I like to do:
I like to climb trees.
I can write my name by myself.
I like to watch movies and play games.
I like playing with my friends.
I don't like getting hurt (I cry when I bleed) it's okay if I get a scratch, if it's not red but it's just white...I like getting those.
I like hugging Brianna.
I like cars.
I like Buzz Light-year.
I like flip-flops.
I can do cool tricks.
I like Primary and Sister Bow-an-arrow
I like singing and dancing

When I get big I want to be Transformers, Batman and Robin, Race cars, and that is all.

I am excited about getting a new house because I want to play outside and have a new room.

I am going to start Kindergarten when the summer is done. I am pretty excited and a little bit scared. I wish I could still have Mrs Clark to be my teacher.

I love being FIVE!

Love,
Benjamin

Birthday excitement

2011-06-09T12:04:00.001-06:00

Ben: :"Hey mom, how many days is it 'till my Birthday?"

Me: "2"

Ben: "WHAT?!?! day after tomorrow is my Birthday?"

Me: "Yup"

Ben: "For REALS?"

Me: "uh huh"

Ben: "Okay, you better not change your mind!"

wOw...

2011-06-09T10:27:00.001-06:00

I just had to take and share pictures of the MASSIVE amount of laundry I did yesterday.

After yet another trip to the Laundromat and about 2 hours of folding, this is what my Family Room looks like.

I always save matching socks for the very last. I really dislike doing it!

way too fast!

2011-06-01T09:27:00.001-06:00

Benjamin and I just finished making his Birthday party invitations... I can't believe my little guy is going to be FIVE in a few days. It seems like just yesterday that I was holding him in my arms for the very first time.

Out of the mouths of babes...

2011-05-21T22:01:00.000-06:00

Benjamin's Lesson for the day:

Satan came and took a piece of fruit and said, "Eat this Eve. Eat this, it's good."
Eve said, "No" and he said, "Yeah it is good."
Eve said, "No, it's not good for your body."
Satan said, "It is good for your body."
So Eve ate it *Gulp* then she took it to Adam.
And Eve said, "Eat this Adam it's good."
Adam said, "No it is not good."
And eve said, "Yes it is good."
So Adam said, "All right I will eat it"
so he took it *gulp* and ate it.
And that is why everyone dies.

Ten Months

2011-05-12T09:55:00.003-06:00

Well everyone, I am 10 months old. I am really good at crawling and can even go up the stairs without any help now. I like pulling myself up to stand and sometime I even let go and stand all by myself for a few seconds.

Mommy and I have decided that teething is just not any fun at all. I would rather just not have any teeth. My mouth hurts a lot and I keep getting in trouble for biting people.

I really like playing outside as long as I don't have to touch any grass. I kind of got a sunburn when I went to the park with Mommy and Benjamin last week. It made Mommy really sad but I didn't mind it.

WOW look at Mommy's Hat-Hair

This month we went to see my cousin Trischel get Baptized. I was really worried when her Daddy pushed her in the water; I didn't think that was very nice. She was okay though and after she got all dried off, I got to eat a cookie and then I went to play at her house for a while.

Mommy Graduated this month. I really don't know what that means except that I had to sit through a long boring meeting in a very hot building and I was pretty tired. But Mommy let me wear her funny hat, I really liked chewing on the tassel.

making sure the balloon didn't fly away

I like talking on the phone. Sometimes I even call people without any help. When Mommy is talking on the phone I try to take it away so that I can talk. I think everyone who calls is Daddy. I hold the phone and say "Dad-ad-ad-ad..."

I like to wave and say hi to everyone, especially at church. I also like clapping and talking.

Well, I better go now. I'll talk to you guys again next month.

Love,
Brianna

Best Graduation Picture EVER!!!

2011-05-08T07:50:00.002-06:00

Benjamin came all the way down to give me this flower as I was walking back to my seat. I so love this little guy!

FINALLY!!!

2011-05-02T20:55:00.001-06:00


In this picture, it looks like I am missing my left hand...kinda creepy!

New Family Pics

2011-05-02T20:03:00.002-06:00

Thanks Sarah! You are SO awesome!

Note

2011-04-20T15:37:00.001-06:00

I found this message on my fridge this morning...

I wish every girl in the whole-wide world could have a husband just like mine! But you can't have mine because...he's mine...I am keeping him...FOREVER.

9 Months

2011-04-12T10:02:00.002-06:00

Check out that RED hair; I LOVE IT!

I am nine-months old today! I have been very busy this past month. I crawl everywhere now. I even crawled up the stairs the other day. I can pull myself up on things and I can walk if a big-person holds my fingers.

I weigh 17lbs 12oz (40%) and I'm 28.5in tall (85%).

I have 3 teeth and I eat lots of stuff. I really like Cheerios and anything else that I can do myself.

One thing I really like doing is singing with Mommy. When she is practicing, I like to help. We harmonize, I just make-up my own part.

I really love my Daddy, I get SO excited when he comes home from work. If he doesn't pick me up fast enough, I get REALLY MAD!

I still think my big-brother Benjamin is great. He has the best toys. Sometimes he doesn't share with me and I get sad. I just wish I could do everything that he can do.

Well, that's about all I have to say for now. I'll talk to you guys again next month.

Love,
Brianna

Please help me out

2011-04-09T20:10:00.000-06:00

I am doing a research project and really need kids between the ages of 13 and 19 to go to this site and complete the survey. Please encourage any and all to help me.

Thanks!

Sad News...

2011-04-08T21:02:00.000-06:00

My sewing machine is no longer working and I can't figure out why...I guess I will have to find some other way to avoid doing homework now ):

Completed Easter clothes

2011-04-08T14:46:00.000-06:00

I just finished Brianna's Easter dress and a matching tie for Benjamin.

A year ago today

2011-04-07T11:05:00.001-06:00

Last year on April 7th, I said goodbye to my daddy.
I just wanted to share my favorite memory of my dad:
When i was 16, I drove my mom's car to Shopko. It was my very first time driving alone in the winter. I slipped on a patch of ice in the parking lot and crashed the car into a light post. The car was totaled. I felt so stupid. Dad noticed that I had seemed pretty down and asked if I wanted to go with him to look at new cars. We got in the car and he drove to a little Mexican restaurant. He looked at me and asked, "I'm kinda hungry, how about you?" I smiled and nodded. We walked into the restaurant and had our own secret little "date." For a couple hours, I didn't have to think about the car. No one was mad at me.

Dad had a way of always letting me know that I was special and important. I hope this is something that I will be able to pass on to my kids.

Dad, I miss you so much. I can't even express how much I wish you could still be here with us.

Easter Dress

2011-04-05T22:39:00.007-06:00

I am working on an Easter dress for Brianna. It is turning out so cute that I couldn't wait to post pictures.

I still need to attach the sash (I am thinking about making it a little wider and just plain white). I have not stitched the applique onto the jacket yet either (I'm trying to decide if I like it better with or without it). And finally, I still need to hem it.

I used this pattern for the jacket and made-up a pattern for the dress by tracing a couple of Brianna's dresses and making adjustments so that it would look the way I wanted.

My favorite thing about this project is that it was completely free. I got the purple fabric from my mom's stash. I made the jacket out of an old T-shirt. I found the ribbon in my closet along with the white fabric (left-over from a quilt I made a while back) I used for the flower. And I had some white thread left-over from this project. I will probably have to buy something to help finish the hem and I really want to add something more to the jacket. Overall though, this is the cheapest Easter dress I have ever seen.

Josh's Birthday

2011-03-28T13:54:00.001-06:00

I gave Brianna a cookie to eat while I was making Josh's cake.

I swear it was only ONE cookie!

I decorated the front porch to surprise Josh...he didn't even notice.

(See all those chalk markings all over the wall? That's from our neighbor. We don't have a hose so I don't know how to get it off.)

This is Josh "pretending to be" an old man!

Presentation

2011-03-26T22:48:00.012-06:00

Here is a copy of the presentation poster that I took to Snow College.

And here is my new proposal poster that I will be taking to Weber State University on Friday!

I am really excited about this project and I just love how it is all coming together!

"30 is the new 20, unless your 20, then it's the new 40."

2011-03-22T09:21:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to take a moment to wish my wonderful husband a Very Happy Birthday today.

I love you...even though you are old.

Following his plan for me...

2011-03-20T21:39:00.003-06:00

Last year, I had my whole life planned out. I was going to go to graduate school at BYU, get my Phd, and live happily ever after. Then...I discovered I was pregnant and VERY sick. I had to drop-out of school; I was too sick to finish. I was 16 credits away from graduation. I spent SO much time praying. Asking "why would God tell me to go to school and then not let me finish?" Finally I knelt down and, through many tears, I told my Heavenly Father that I was going to let him be in control. I realized that I had planned my whole life without praying, without talking with my Father.

The first time I met with the LDS missionaries, they asked me if I believed Joseph Smith's testimony. I told them that I wasn't sure and they challenged me to pray and ask God if it is true. I thought, "Why have I never thought of just asking God something, anything." At that moment, I decided that I would always go to my Heavenly Father when I was making a decision. How did I forget that?

So anyway, after Brianna was born I prayed and discussed things with Josh and we decided that I was going to graduate. I decided to put my dreams of graduate school aside and just get those last few credits. I also spent a great deal of time in prayer as I registered for classes. I chose to take night classes in Brigham so that I wouldn't have to put Brianna in daycare.

I needed 2 more credits to graduate and I didn't need have anymore required classes. I could have taken aerobics or swing dancing or some other easy class. But for some reason, I was drawn to a class titled adolescent development. I didn't know why the spirit was leading me to thins class but I registered anyway.

A few weeks ago I turned in this paper (sorry the formatting got kind of messed up and I'm not sure how to fix it) and a few days later received an email from my professor. In the email she asked if (1) she could share it with other students in the class as an example, (2) I would be willing to present this proposal and subsequent research at 2 different conferences, and (3) if I would be interested in getting this published when it's done.

I have just been spending a lot of time thinking about how I gave my life over to God and thing worked out so much better than I could have ever imagined. What if I hadn't decided to take classes in Brigham? What if I hadn't followed the spirit in registering for this class?

Anyway, I just wanted to share some of the thoughts that have been weighing on my heart these past few days. If you actually read through this whole thing you are probably my husband. I love you honey thanks for always reading the random crap I put on here.

Terrible...four's?

2011-03-17T12:36:00.001-06:00

Don't worry, it's just food coloring

I just thought I would share some pictures of what I found in my kitchen this morning.

And yes, it does run all the way down the wall and into a lovely pool under the oven.

And 20 minutes later...I guess it wasn't as bad as I had thought. Why is he so curious about everything? Maybe we should have named him George???

pi = 3.14159265

2011-03-14T12:52:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a very happy Pi Day! Quite possibly my very most favorite holiday (Yes, I am a nerd).

8 Months

2011-03-12T19:41:00.005-07:00

sorry the hat looks a little weird. I had to push it back so I could get a picture of those big blue eyes!

Hey Everyone,

I am now eight months old. I'm not really sure how big I am...but let me tell you all the things that I can do.
1. I can sit all by myself
2. I can roll over
3. I can crawl
4. I can pick up cereal pieces and put them in my mouth
5. I can say Dadda, Momma, and no.
6. I can drink from a straw

I have been pretty busy this month. On Valentines day Daddy gave me some chocolate. It was pretty yummy. I also got to have some ice cream on Uncle Billy and Uncle Joey's Birthday. The boys Birthday was pretty fun. A lot of people came to my house and I really really liked the ice cream.

On Thursday Mommy and Benjamin and I went to Daddy's work. I really wanted to get down and crawl on the floor but Mommy said no. She never lets me do cool stuff like eating things off the floor or crawling around in cool places. When Daddy was done working, he came with us and we went to a really neat place for dinner. I got to sit in a special highchair and I ate french fries. I especially liked getting to drink water with a straw.

After dinner we went to this place that had a LOT of people and it was VERY noisy. We got to see Mickey and Minnie Mouse and lots of other cool people. I really thought the lights and music were neat. Most of all though, I liked watching the people sitting behind us. They were doing some very interesting things.

I have really been enjoying playing outside. I LOVE that it is getting warmer out there. I like watching Benjamin ride his bike and play with his friends. My favorite thing is going for walks with Mommy. She puts me in the stroller and I show her lots of cool stuff while we walk.

Well, I can't really think of anything else to tell you right now. So I guess I will let you get back to whatever you are doing. I will talk to you all next month.

Love,
Brianna

Other Spring-Break Projects

2011-03-10T09:02:00.003-07:00

Just thought I would share a few pictures of the things I have been working on this week. The blue/orange one will have matching burp-cloths as well; I just ran out of ric-rac for the edges.

***I just realized that I should probably add a little note here explaining that I made these blankets for a couple of my friends who are having boys. Please be advised that we are not expecting any baby boys at our house any time soon!***

'Nuff Said!

2011-03-09T14:02:00.000-07:00

FINISHED

2011-03-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

I promise this will be the last post of me bragging about this dress. It was pretty easy to make, I started with a white shirt and added the skirt and collar. I then made an applique for the front and stitched the black "sash" on. I added the flower and bow and ta-duh!

I had to go to Walmart to get some red thread and found these shoes on clearance for $2. I just simply attached the little red bows to make them match.

Benjamin told me that he wanted a "Mickey dress too." So I took an old shirt of his and stitched a strip of white/black fabric to the front and then added the Mickey applique. I can;t get him to try it on though so this is the only picture you get.

Anyway, I'm pretty excited about how it all turned out/came together.

Before and After

2011-03-03T19:21:00.000-07:00

Vocal Exercises

2011-03-01T11:01:00.000-07:00

This is Benjamin helping me practice my singing.

Spring Break 2011

2011-02-28T09:05:00.002-07:00

"Well Catie, next week is your very last Spring Break EVER...what are you going to do?"

"I'm going to Disney...

on Ice!" I am so excited, I won tickets to Disney on Ice from The Idea Room which happens to be one of my very most favorite blogs. It is where I got the idea to make these Reindeer

that Benjamin gave to his friends for Christmas. It is also where I got the idea to make this for my front door. Yeah, I love The Idea Room and I am so excited for Disney on Ice and Spring Break!

Thoughts...

2011-02-21T21:46:00.003-07:00

I was just sitting here looking through some blogs that I follow when a thought occurred to me: When I first started this blog it was called Josh AND Catie...and yet, I am the only one who ever posts. When I first started making blog backgrounds, I tried so hard to make them neutral...and now, I can't believe how incredibly girly this blog has become. Perhaps I should make a new blog, it would be titled:

THE MOST AMAZINGLY, BEAUTIFUL, FABULOUSLY, AWESOMEST CATIE
...and her family.

Announcement

2011-02-16T18:19:00.002-07:00

I would just like to take a moment to announce that I have the cutest kids ever and I wouldn't trade them for anything! (And that my daughter WILL NOT smile when I am trying to take her picture!)

7 Months

2011-02-12T15:20:00.003-07:00

I am now seven-months old. I weigh 15 pounds, 4 ounces. I can sit-up all by myself. I have decided that I really like eating big-people food. I have had beans, rice, spaghetti, macaroni & Cheese, Potatoes...and a bunch of other stuff. My daddy is really trying to get me to crawl but rolling is just so much easier for me. Sometimes when mommy is practicing her singing, I sing too. Daddy and Benjamin think that it's really funny when I sing. I like laughing and smiling when people AREN'T trying to take my picture.

Aunt Brittany has been watching me and Benjamin a lot lately. She is really fun to play with. Benjamin and I were pretty surprised that she made Macaroni & Cheese for us. Did you know that people other than mommy and daddy can make food? That is just crazy!

We have all been kinda sick this past week. I keep coughing and mommy is worried about it. She keeps wiping my nose and I REALLY don't like that. I think we are all finally starting to get better. I can't wait for it to get warmer outside so I can go play.

HEEELLLLOOOOO....

2011-02-10T15:22:00.003-07:00

Benjamin has this ~~stupid~~ really cool kids-meal toy that says "Hello Gorgeous." This is what he says back!

"Hello Ugly" (sorry it's a bit hard to understand.)

I wanna talk about...

2011-02-09T11:20:00.001-07:00

ME!

I just realized that I don't ever post anything about me; it's always about my kids. So Betsy got me this hat which I LOVE! Benjamin took a picture of me this morning and I decided to post it. Because I can finally fit into my pre-preggo pants. Because I am feeling really cute today. But most of all, because I am avoiding doing my homework!

Happy Groundhog Day!

2011-02-02T10:33:00.004-07:00

The famous groundhog usually foresees six more weeks of winter, but the Punxsutawney Phil 2011 prediction is for early spring.

Baby Talk

2011-01-31T14:03:00.000-07:00

Brianna "talking."
She says "Mom" at about 29 and then again at about 53 then she says "goodbye" at about 1:11 and then she pukes on herself (sorry, I can't figure out how to edit that out)

Thoughts...

2011-01-25T11:19:00.001-07:00

I am supposed to be writing a Psychometric analysis of standardized testing but I can't stop thinking about things I learned in Stake Conference on Saturday night. A couple who had recently returned from their mission discussed their own version of the "Ten-Second Rule." They said that if we do not follow a spiritual prompting within 10-seconds of receiving it, we will not ever follow it.
During the meeting, I felt that I should invite one of our neighbors to church. I didn't count, or watch the clock, but I'm sure it was about 10-seconds later that I started having thoughts like, "it's too late to go to her house tonight...She probably wouldn't come anyway...I don't think she likes me...etc." By the time we got home, I had managed to talk myself out of it.

Now I wonder, what could have happened? What did I allow FEAR to get in the way of?

What if Ben hadn't taken a chance by inviting me to his Baptism?

I remember a time just before I was baptized when someone shared a story in Sunday School that was pretty weird. At the conclusion of the lesson, I got up to leave thinking, "I don't know about this." A wonderful sister followed me out into the hall and said, "I think that story was a little weird and I feel like you might have some questions about it." I was able to talk with her and left church that day with a testimony of spiritual promptings and the love that my heavenly father has for me. That he cared enough about my silly little questions to send someone to help me. What if that sister had not followed the 10-second rule?

Another thing this couple said was, "When we fail to follow the 10-second rule, WE FAIL." I really believe that when I fail to following the promptings of the spirit, I FAIL.

#1 reason I'm not getting anything done today!

2011-01-24T13:56:00.000-07:00

6 Months

2011-01-12T11:08:00.000-07:00

Well world, I am now half a year old. I am 15 pounds. My mommy thinks I might be teething because I have been VERY grumpy lately.

I really like rolling. Daddy is trying to get me to do something called crawling. He keeps putting me on my tummy but I just roll over. I roll everywhere I want to go. Yesterday I rolled into the shelf. It hurt and made me cry. My mommy decided to put my swing away because I rolled out of it two times. Even when I was buckled in! Maybe that crawling thing would be a better idea so I could see where I am going and maybe not get hurt so much.

I can sit by myself sometimes. But I usually get distracted and fall over pretty fast. I got a Bumbo chair for Christmas. I like sitting in it because I don't fall over.

When Benjamin was my size Grandpa took a picture of him looking in a mirror and my Mommy thought it would be cool to take one of me that matches. I still don't understand where that other baby in the mirror came from. I thought she was pretty funny though.

I still really like playing with Benjamin. He has so many cool toys. I like to chew on his Power Rangers and I think his Monster trucks are really funny when they drive off the table.

I like to suck, chew, and slobber on everything. If you are ever not sure about something, you must put it in your mouth.

Well, that's about all I have to say for now, I'll talk with you all again next month!

-Brianna

Parenting

2011-01-06T12:45:00.001-07:00

I have been really struggling with Benjamin lately. I really hate the idea of spanking my kids. I have asked several people and done lots of research to find any help or ideas for parenting without hitting. This is really hard for us as Josh and I were both raised in families where physical punishment was used A LOT and we both feel that it does much more harm than good.

I heard about Love and Logic from a couple different people. Both of them told me that it hadn't worked for them and that the ideas and suggestions therein are unrealistic and never work.

I bought this book and began, very sceptically, reading it. I thought as I read the stories that it would never work. It seemed so unrealistic to think that MY kid could ever behave as well as the ones in this book.

I have been SO surprised. Today at lunch:
I gave Benjamin 2 choices for what he would like to eat, he said, "NOTHING!" So I said, "Ok, I will choose." I put it on a plate and set it on the table. I sat and quietly ate my lunch. I didn't respond to his whining, "I didn't want this lunch...I wanted the orange plate...I wanted to sit in that chair..." When I finished eating I went and got a piece of candy out of the bowl on top of the fridge. I said, very calmly, "I think I'm going to have a treat because I ate all of my lunch." Benjamin looked up from his whining and said, "I didn't eat my lunch...I was just complaining."
MY KID said that! It wasn't some random story in a book, it really happened.

I also really like that many of the things suggested are things that I already do. Like letting him make a mistake and then talking about the natural consequences of that mistake.

For example, Yesterday:
Instead of telling him over and over to not climb on the back of the couch, I said, one time, "If you climb up there like that, you could fall and get hurt." I them walked away. A minute later he came to me crying. I asked him what happened and he said, "I fell off the couch." "Oh, are you okay?" "I think my head is hurt-ed" "Hmm why did you fall off the couch?" "'cause I was climbing on the back and not sitting right...I think that was not a very good choice."
Again, MY KID SAID THAT!

I could go on forever giving examples but I won't. I also, I read this Love and Logic book and didn't like it very much. It has many of the same suggestions as the early childhood one but is much harder to read and contains a lot of Bible references and gets a bit preachy.

I can see where some of the suggestions in the Early Childhood book wouldn't work for us. I can also see where some things that really work for us wouldn't work for other families. I think finding parenting advise that works for your individual family is a lot like finding a diet plan that works for you. Every individual is different and has a different lifestyle that will work, or not work, with any giving diet plan. This is also true with parenting. I have read many books, asked many people and spent countless hours in prayer and fasting and have finally found something that works for us. Life at our house has become SO MUCH better. We are ALL so much happier. And, best of all, I can't even remember the last time we had to even threaten a spanking!

Surprise visitor

2010-12-21T11:36:00.001-07:00

Christmas Card

2010-12-20T09:17:00.002-07:00

Surgery

2010-12-13T16:00:00.001-07:00

Today is the fourth anniversary of Benjamin's heart surgery. I have been thinking a lot about those few days we spent in the hospital and just thought I would share a little from what I wrote in my journal (paraphrased) the day of his surgery:

In an attempt to avoid having to drive through the Canyon early in the morning, we spent the night before Benjamin’s surgery at Josh’s Grandparents house. This was also nice because Grandpa could help Josh give Benjamin a Priesthood blessing. 
I was not able to sleep at all that night. I worried that I was keeping Josh awake so I got up and sat next to Benjamin. I looked at his innocent little face, sound asleep, completely unaware of what he was going to be going through in the next few days. He looked perfect to me. I started asking myself, “Why did this happen to us? Why does this perfect, innocent, boy who never hurt anybody have to hurt? Why can’t I go through this for him?” I cried. I prayed for peace and comfort for each of us, especially Benjamin.
Finally morning arrived and it was time to leave for the hospital. 

I took this picture of Benjamin waking up. He was so happy, giggling and smiling. I cried a little more. 
We got in the car and drove to Salt Lake. It was a long and quiet trip. I hated knowing that the very best thing for my son was probably the most difficult and painful thing he would ever go through. He started to get fussy as we arrived at the hospital. I think this was because he was hungry and we couldn’t feed him prior to the operation. 
After getting him checked in, we went into an exam room where I changed him into a gown. A nurse weighed and measured him. He weighed, 6.6 Kilograms. This is significant because he had to weigh more than 6 Kilograms in order to have the surgery.

Soon, way before I was ready, a man came in and explained that he was the anesthesiologist and asked if we had any questions. After answering our questions, he said it was time.  Josh and I, holding Benjamin as tightly as I could without suffocating him, followed this man down a long hallway. We stopped at a large door with a sign indicating that it was the Operating Room. The man turned and said, “This is where you give hugs and kisses.” I kissed my baby, gave him to Josh who hugged and kissed him. I took him again in my arm and then, handed him to the anesthesiologist who took him, turned around, and disappeared through those big doors. I think I would have collapsed on the floor right there if Josh hadn’t caught me. I cried until I could no longer breath.  
After regaining some composure, we headed to the Surgery waiting area. I remember listening to other parents who were waiting for their child to have Ear tubes placed or Tonsils removed. They were laughing and joking. They had no idea what I was going through, what my baby was going through. We waited for 6 hours. Every couple hours someone would come give us an update. 
Finally, I looked up to see Dr Curetis coming into the room. He asked us to come with him into a consultation room. He told us that everything had gone well. He explained that Benjamin would be in recovery for an hour and then they would move him to the ICU. We would not be able to see him for about an hour after that. Then the Dr gave me the patch piece of patch that he had cut from to repair Benjamin’s heart. This small scrap of material had a hole cut out of it that was about the size of a dime.

After waiting 2 more hours, we made our way to the Pediatric ICU. They have a phone on the wall just outside the unit. Josh picked it up and explained that we were Benjamin McGee's parents. They opened the door and led us into Benjamin's room. 

As we walked in, I saw my baby laying on a large hospital bed. His skin way a gray/blue color. His whole body was swollen and puffy. He had read marks on his face and stomach from tape. There was a breathing tube in his mouth. Two large chest tubes coming from his tummy. An IV in each hand as well as one in his neck. 

Although he wasn't awake, he was crying. I wanted to hold him and take away his hurt...and at the same time, I wanted to run far, far away and not have to look at him.

Five Months

2010-12-12T23:05:00.001-07:00

I am five-months old! Some interesting things have been happening over here.

First, my mommy and daddy put this really weird tree in the living room. It has lots of shiny toys hanging on it and really bright lights. Now, these lights may look interesting but you should never touch them; VERY HOT!

For some reason, it is getting to be very cold outside. I really don't like that mommy puts blankets all over me and I can't move or see where we are going. I'm not so sure about this snow stuff, its cold, and wet and Benjamin likes to throw it in the house. I just don't know...

I now weigh a little over 14 pounds. I have tried eating some rice cereal, it was pretty good. Mom also gave me some Squash, I think I prefer that to the cereal. Benjamin tried to eat some of my food but he didn't really like it. Mom says he liked it when he was little but I don't think he believes her. Maybe she was just saying that to get ME to like it. You see, I think my big-brother is really great and I want to be just like him. So maybe if he liked this stuff, I will too.

Benjamin keeps telling me about this guy named Santa who brings presents to kids. I'm not sure what presents are but if Benjamin thinks it's cool, so do I.

Well, I'm kinda tired. I better get some sleep. I will probably have more to say next month.

-Brianna

Merry Christmas

2010-12-11T14:05:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a Very-Merry Christmas and an oh-so-happy New Year from the McGee Family!

4.5

2010-12-11T01:58:00.002-07:00

Mrs Clark (my teacher) decided to celebrate my Birthday this week because it is my half-birthday today and we don't have school in the summer when it's my real Birthday. I got to wear a cool Birthday crown. Everyone sang to me and Mrs. Clark gave me a present. Since I'm thinking about Birthdays right now, I figured I would just write a little update. So here goes...

What it is like to be 4-and-a-half

My most favorite thing to do is get into stuff (just ask my mom).
I am so curious about everything.
I ask LOTS of questions.
Sometimes I get really mad and scream at people or hit them.
I like to do everything myself.
I love going to Primary on Sundays.
I like singing with my mom.
I like school, especially Show-and-Tell.
My best-friend at school is Bryson. He likes Buzz Lightyear.
I like string-cheese and Goldfish Crackers.
My favorite color is Green.
I like playing in the snow but I wish it didn't have to be so cold.
I like helping mom take care of Brianna.
Marshmallows are yummy.

When I get big like daddy, I'm gonna...

-Fly Airplanes

-Drive a Firetruck

-Be a Army guy

-Go to work at Daddy's work

4 Months: A Few of My Favorite Things...

2010-11-13T15:37:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone! I just thought I would let you all know that I am now 4-months old. I weigh 12 lbs 8.5 oz and I am 25 inches long. This month I think I will just make a list of interesting things about me.

I love to kick in the bath...I do not love when water gets in my eyes.

I love that there is an echo in the bathroom when I make loud noises...I do not love when Mommy cleans my ears.

I love being all wrapped up in a towel...I do not love when Mommy takes the towel away to get me dressed (It's really cold!!!).

I really like kicking my blanket off at night...I really do not like getting cold.

I like when Mommy holds me and kisses my head...I do not like when Benjamin squeezes me too tight.

I really like playing with my puppy (Benjamin named her Chloe)...I don't like when I drop my puppy and can't reach her.

I like playing in my swing...I don't like when I fall asleep and miss everything.

I like having special time with mommy after daddy goes to work but before Benjamin wakes up...We talk and giggle in our PJ's. I don't like getting dressed.

I love going to visit my aunt Besty...I don't love that she is going to move far, far away.

I like sitting up by myself...I don't love that I really can't sit up by myself yet.

I love listening to mommy sing...I don't like when she sings too loud.

I like when my ears don't hurt...I don't like when they do.

I like being all wrapped up in my favorite blanket...I don't like when my blanket is in the laundry.

I like going to the Dr...I don't like when they give me shots.

I love my big-brother...I don't like when he takes my toys away from me.

I love my Daddy...I don't like when he wakes me up too early in the morning.

I love my mommy...I don't like when she clips my fingernails, or wipes my nose, or takes my temperature.

I can't really think of anything else right now. I guess I will just have to talk with you all later.

Love,
Brianna

Four Months

2010-11-12T20:34:00.003-07:00

*NOTICE*
This is where you should see a cute new picture of Brianna followed by an ever-so-clever note from the princess, herself. However, she had her immunizations today and is just plain too tuckered out for such mundane things as blogging. I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

My 4-year-old!

2010-11-01T16:29:00.001-06:00

Some kids stick things in power outlets...Mine takes them apart leaving exposed wires protruding from the wall.

Some kids color on the wall...Mine uses a hammer and nails to make holes and then stick things in them.

Some kids ride their bikes...Mine uses a wrench to completely disassemble his.

Some kids talk on the phone...Mine sends 57 incoherent text messages to one person.

Some kids will sit and watch a movie...Mine figures out how to get into the special features menu and watches said movie in Russian with french captions (he also changed the language for the menu so we can't change it back).

Some kids play games on the computer...Mine somehow renamed and moved several important files and sent an email to my professor that simply read "ben ben ben ben ben..." and so on.

Some kids have snacks...Mine takes 20 Capri Sun pouches, 2 boxes of crackers, and 1 package of cookies outside and feeds the neighborhood.

Some kids play in the bath...Mine floods the bathroom and tells me it's "Cuz I needed to do my trick."

Some kids wear Iron Man underpants...Mine wears 1 pair of Iron Man underpants, 1 pair of Spiderman underpants, and 2 pair of Star Wars underpants at the same time, all backwards so he can "see the picture," because he couldn't decide which one he liked best.

Some kids sing songs in Primary...Mine spends the full 45 minutes relating the following story to his teacher, "Hey Sister Johnson, you know that pencil you gave me? Today I was biting it and the eraser came off. Then I tried to push it back in and my mouth bleeded a lot and lot and lot. And it was hurting a lot and lot and lot..." The story continues but you probably get the idea.

As I have been writing this my son, who is supposed to be taking a nap, has attached one end of a shoelace to the doorknob and the other end to the vacuum. Something is telling me that whatever he is doing will not end well...but on the other hand, I really want to watch and see what happens.

Oh wow, now the shoelace is also attached to a laundry basket...

2010-11-01T09:04:00.000-06:00

Happy Haunting

2010-10-30T19:30:00.000-06:00

Happy Halloween from the McGee's

Benjamin wanted to be Woody (from Toy Story). This is the best I could come up with. He had originally planned to be Iron Man but it didn't work out.

Brianna was the CUTEST cheerleader EVER! (Definitely the most money I have ever, or ever will, spent on a costume).

Our cute pumpkins!

Growin' up is not so tough...except when I've had enough!

2010-10-27T13:46:00.005-06:00

I was just thinkin' that it's been a really long time since I have posted anything on here. I've been pretty busy lately.

I started school last month and I LOVE it. I am making lots of friends and learning some cool stuff. My teacher, Mrs. Clark is fun and really nice. So far, I have learned the Pledge of Allegiance and lots of letters and sounds. I like to think of words and ask Mommy what letter they start with like "Puh, Puh, Puh, Puppy!" My favorite thing about school is show-and-tell. That's when I get to bring cool stuff from home to show all my friends at school.

Another thing that is new at my house is Brianna. She is my baby sister. She cries a lot. When she cries in the car, I sing to her and give her a binky. I really like to hold her and play with her. She is pretty little.

So, Mommy and Daddy decided that I am big enough to help with some jobs at home. Mommy made me a cool chart that has all my jobs and I can put stickers on when I do them. Everyday I have to empty the dishwasher and clean the family room. At first I thought it would be hard, but it's not too bad. Plus Mommy is always so happy when I do my jobs and then I can go out and play with my friends.

Mommy and daddy got me a bike for my Birthday. It's my favorite thing to play with outside. I have lots of friends that live by us and we all ride bikes together.

On Saturday, we went to the homecoming parade in Logan. It was pretty fun, I got lots of candy and there were some neat floats. After the parade, we saw some firetrucks at Kmart and decided to check them out. The firemen let me and Daniel climb in the big truck and he told us about all the cool stuff inside. I don't really know what else to say right now so I guess I will just have to write again another day.

Love,
Benjamin

3 months

2010-10-12T00:34:00.010-06:00

Well, I am 3 months old. I have been growing a lot. I now weigh 11 pounds and 14 ounces. I have decided that it is better to sleep in the night and be awake during the daytime. Since I have been sleeping better at nighttime, Mommy isn't so grouchy. This has been a blessing to my whole family because nobody likes a grouchy mommy.

A few weeks ago mommy got really sick. She had to take some medicine that wasn't good for me so I decided to just use bottles now. I like having bottles because now Benjamin and Daddy can feed me too.

My Grandma Sani got me a really cool swing. I love sitting in it and talking to mommy while she folds the laundry.

I have had two ear infections this month. I really don't like when me ear hurts. I cry and cry and cry. The medicine my Dr gave me doesn't taste very good and it makes my tummy hurt. I hope I will be done taking it soon.

Right now I am trying to decide which I like better, my Pacifier or my thumb. they both taste pretty good but my thumb is just always right where I need it. It's pretty convenient that way. But then the pacifier is way cuter and less slobbery so I don't know.

I really love my big-brother Benjamin. He makes funny noises and silly faces and I laugh and laugh. Sometimes he forgets that I am just little and he gets kinda rough. I think I will just have to work on growing bigger so I can play with the big kids.

I also love my Daddy, he lets me chew on his fingers. He sings to me and reads stories. He even gave me a special blessing when my ear was hurting. He sure is good at making me feel better!

Mommy is still my favorite though. I usually cry when other people try to hold me. I like when she rubs my feet and sings to me. I think she really likes when I smile and laugh, so I do it a lot.

Well that's all I have to say for now. I will be writing again next month!

sprinkler video

2010-10-08T10:19:00.000-06:00

This is Benjamin playing with the sprinkler his Aunt Brittany gave him. Thanks Britt, you are the best!

Swing video

2010-10-08T10:16:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to post this for my mom. She bought this swing for Brianna and we all LOVE it. Thanks Grandma Sani!

Photoshop fun

2010-10-04T16:10:00.000-06:00

Dad

2010-10-01T09:37:00.007-06:00

Each life that touches ours for good
Reflects thine own great mercy, Lord;
Thou sendest blessings from above
Thru words and deeds of those who love.

What greater gift dost thou bestow,

What greater goodness can we know

Than Christlike friends, whose gentle ways

Strengthen our faith, enrich our days.

When such a friend from us departs,

We hold forever in our hearts

A sweet and hallowed memory,

Bringing us nearer, Lord, to thee.

For worthy friends whose lives proclaim
Devotion to the Savior’s name,
Who bless our days with peace and love,
We praise thy goodness, Lord, above.

Birthday

2010-10-01T09:19:00.003-06:00

Today would be my dad's 66th birthday. I am having a really hard time expressing how I feel right now. I don't understand why he had to die, why it had to happen so fast, or why he doesn't get to see his kids, and grandkids, grow up. The last time I saw him, I couldn't speak. I couldn't tell him that I love him. I couldn't say goodbye, I couldn't even cry. I miss him so much!

2 Months

2010-09-12T09:51:00.005-06:00

Hey Everyone,
I'm two months old! I am now 11 pounds and 22 inches long. I have discovered that the more I cry, the faster Mommy and Daddy take care of me. So I have been practicing getting louder and louder. My reflux is getting better. I don't spit-up as much anymore but I still do get fussy sometimes.

When Mommy has school, I get to go play at Aunt Betsy's house. I really like this because Betsy is so nice to me. She holds me and talks to me. Sometimes even Daniel gets to hold me. Daniel is my cousin. He's 2 and really likes helping his mom take care of me. I really like going outside to watch him ride his bike. I like to watch Benjamin ride his bike too but he rides REALLY fast so sometimes it's hard for me to see. When I'm away from Mommy I eat out of a bottle. At first I really didn't like it at all. But my Mommy got me some new formula that doesn't make my tummy hurt and so I decided that it will be okay. I think Mommy misses me when she goes because when she comes to get me, she gives me lots of kisses. I sure do love my Mommy!

I have been staying awake a lot more during the day. I like watching everyone and listening to them talk. It's really great when Daddy is home because he likes to play with me. He makes funny noises with his tongue and I try to do it too. I get nervous when I hear loud noises like thunder or if Benjamin turns the TV too loud. Sometimes Benjamin forgets to be quiet when I am sleeping. He goes to school and learns lots of cool stuff. I can't wait until I get big like him so I can go to school and do all the fun things that he does. I think he is excited for me to get big because he wants to be able to play with me.

Well I better go take a nap now so Mommy can do her homework. I will be posting again next month to let everyone know how I am doing.
Love,
Brianna

Blessings

2010-09-11T04:23:00.000-06:00

SO Excited!!!

2010-09-07T21:02:00.006-06:00

Today was Benjamin's first day of Preschool. He was so excited that he woke up early to come jump on my bed and sing "SO EXCITED, SO EXCITED, SOOOO EXCITED...

Birth Story

2010-09-05T20:24:00.008-06:00

On July 11th I had been having contractions all through church. At home, I tried laying down to take a nap but was unable to sleep through the contractions. I took a bath, ate some chocolate, nothing helped. So we decided to go to the hospital yet again (I think this was our 4th or 5th visit). I called my sister to see if she would watch Benjamin. After dropping him off, my contractions had completely stopped. We decided to leave him there and go home to wait and see (I "wait and see" should be the title of my entire pregnancy). I went to bed planning to go get Benjamin in the morning.
I awoke at 5 am having THE STRONGEST contractions EVER. When Josh got up to go to work, I told him I had a feeling we were going to have our baby that day. He called his boss and said he was going to stay home with me for a while. We watched a movie together and the contractions slowed down a lot. We went for a walk and by the time we got home, I was ready to go to the hospital.
On the drive to Ogden I tried to breath through the pain. Josh kept trying to talk to me; I don't remember anything he said. At the hospital I explained, in between contractions, what was happening. The nurse checked me and said I was only at 3.5 centimeters and we would just have to wait and see. An hour later I was still at 3.5centimeters and they had not been able to get a hold of my Dr. The nurse told me that she thought I was dehydrated and that is what was causing my contractions. She left the room. Josh left to call his boss and let them know he might still be able to go in. Minutes later the nurse came in and asked me if I had moved the monitor. I told her that I had just been laying there (as if I could have moved during those contractions). She said that my baby's heart rate had dropped considerably during my last contraction. As she stood there, I had two more contractions and Brianna's heart rate continued to drop each time.
The nurse left just as Josh was returning. I explained to him what was going on. Soon the nurse returned to my room with an IV and a bunch of meds. She asked, "You know what this means, don't you?" I said no and she replied, "We are going to have a c-section today at 1:30. At this point it was almost noon. She explained that she had talked to my Dr about the heart rate and he told her he would be there at 1:30 to do a c-section.

It only took 4 tries to get an IV in (this is actually pretty good for me). The anesthesiologist came and asked several questions while the nurse finished preparing me and Josh got changed and ready. My Dr came in and told methat he really hoped this time would be better than my last c-section. I felt so comfortable knowing he would be doing the surgery. I LOVE myDr. He has been my OB since I was 18 and he is amazing!!!
In the Operating room, theanesthesiologist administered the spinal block andright away my feet started getting warm and numb. I had already told the anesthesiologist about my panic attack when Benjamin was born so he was ready. As the numb feeling moved up, my lungs went numb. This caused another panic attack as I felt like I couldn't breath and also the feeling of being held down made me claustrophobic. They gave me some meds to help me relax and the alarms settled down. The Dr talked to me through the entire procedure which also helped me relax
It wasn't long before we heard a little squeak and the Dr said, "Now wait a minute. No crying before you're even born." I guess she was crying before he even pulled her out. They then lowered the curtain and said "here is your baby girl." Boy was she MAD! Josh got to go in and watch as they cleaned her off and did everything else they do. He brought her back in and she quieted down as I stroked her little head. All I could see was her head as I was still on the operating table. I cried; she was just so perfect.

Interesting thought...

2010-09-03T16:27:00.004-06:00

Just thought this would be a great thing to post as I am playing on Facebook instead of folding laundry and eating potato chips instead of fixing dinner...

Imagine that you had won the following prize in a contest:

Each morning your bank would deposit $86,400.00 in your private account for your use...
...
However, this prize has rules, just as any game has certain rules.

The first set of rules would be:
Everything that you didn't spend during each day would be taken away from you. You may not simply transfer money into some other account. You may only spend it.
Each morning upon awakening, the bank opens yo......ur account with another $86,400.00 for that day.
The second set of rules:
The bank can end the game without warning; at any time it can say, its over, the game is over!
It can close the account and you will not receive a new one.
What would you personally do?
You would buy anything and everything you wanted, right?
Not only for yourself, but for all people you love, right?
Even for people you don't know, because you couldn't possibly spend it all on yourself, right?
You would try to spend every cent, and use it all, right?
ACTUALLY This GAME is REALITY!
Each of us is in possession of such a magical bank. We just can't seem to see it.
The MAGICAL BANK is TIME!
Each morning we awaken to receive 86,400 seconds as a gift of life, and when we go to sleep at night, any remaining time is NOT credited to us. What we haven't lived up that day is forever lost.
Yesterday is forever gone.
Each morning the account is refilled, but the bank can dissolve your account at any time....WITHOUT WARNING.
SO, what will YOU do with your 86,400 seconds?

Family Pictures!!!

2010-08-16T15:07:00.007-06:00

This one reminds me of Harry Potter!

Okay, so I'm still working on losing the "Baby weight" I tried not to get any pictures showing my tummy but I really like this one.

This is one of my favorites

I seriously have THE cutest kids ever!

One Month

2010-08-12T22:22:00.001-06:00

Well it has been a month since this beautiful girl came into our home and stole our hearts. She is growing a LOT! I am not sure exactly how much she weighs now but last Friday at the Dr she was 7 pounds 12 ounces. This means she has already gained over a pound since she was born.

The reason for our visit to the Dr last Friday...Brianna has reflux. She had started coughing and spitting-up quite a bit. She was also doing a lot of crying (more like screaming). Anyway, with the meds the Dr gave us, she is doing great and is back to her happy, yet sleepy, self.

As for me, I am still healing. I went to my first postpartum visit this week. The Dr says everything looks good so far and he wants me to go back in two more weeks. I am still unable to lift anything that is too heavy and I seem to get tired easily. I also still get pain when I try to do too much.

Being a mom is definitely the best job I have ever had. I have told many people, and believe it with all my heart, the hardest part about being a mom, for me, is getting the child here (pregnancy, delivery, etc).

2 weeks!

2010-07-26T17:29:00.003-06:00

Brianna is 2-weeks old today and as today is also the day she was supposed to be born I thought I would post an update.

After losing a substantial amount, she is now back to her birth weight. She does so much better with nursing than Benjamin ever did. It is really strange to have a healthy baby.

Healing from my C-section has been a bit harder this time as Josh didn't get as much time off from work and Brianna didn't have to stay in the hospital like Benjamin.

Overall, we are doing great and just trying to get used to having a little baby in the house again.

Blessing

2010-07-20T13:19:00.001-06:00

Brianna's blessing will be August 1st at 11am in the Brigham City Central Ward (2oo East and 500 North).

Introducing...

2010-07-13T09:10:00.003-06:00

Brianna Ruth McGee
Born July 12, 2010
6 Pounds 11 Ounces
Eighteen inches long

Privacy Please

2010-07-08T10:46:00.002-06:00

Well I have decided to make my blog private. With all these pictures of Benjamin and personal info about my pregnancy, I think it's probably better to know who is seeing it. Please put your email address as a comment if you want to be able to keep seeing my blog. You can also email your address to me at joshandcatie@gmail.com.

Thank You

2010-06-30T10:08:00.006-06:00

Five years ago today...

I awoke at 4am in a hotel room in Oregon. I felt as though I was in a Daze. Someone was asleep on the floor, snoring. Someone was doing my hair. Many people were coming and going, asking questions about what color socks they should wear and if they were going to need their Temple clothing.

Eventually, we all decided that we were as ready as we were going to be and got into our cars. We arrived at the Temple very early. I think we were supposed to arrive at 10am and we actually got there at 9:30am. The Temple workers said they weren't ready for us and asked us to wait for a bit. This was actually nice because I felt that I had been running in circles all day and I really did need to relax for a minute.

It wasn't long before a Temple worker came and got me. Heidi came in with me as my mom was not there. I remember this day as being one of those times where being a convert and not being able to share my faith with my parents is really hard. I changed into my wedding dress. I was excited about this because I had told Josh that I was just going to wear my Temple dress. I wanted to surprise him when he saw me in my real dress for the first time.

As josh took my hand and said, "Yes," that he wanted to be married to me forever, I started crying. I can't believe that someone so amazing would pick me.

I just want to say Thank you Josh for picking me and for putting up with all my craziness for the past five years. I love you even more now than I did on that day.

June 27 1844

2010-06-28T14:15:00.003-06:00

Today is the 166th anniversary of the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith.

Despite his promises of protection and a fair trial, Governor Ford allowed the Smiths to be imprisoned by their enemies without bail and without a hearing on a wholly new charge of treason for having declared martial law in Nauvoo. Stating that he had to "satisfy the people," the Governor ignored clear warnings of danger and disbanded most of the troops. He then left the hostile Carthage Greys to guard the jail and took the most dependable troops with him to Nauvoo.

During the governor's absence, a mob of between one hundred and two hundred armed men—many of them from the disbanded Warsaw militia—gathered in late afternoon, blackened their faces with mud and gunpowder, and then stormed the jail. In less than two minutes, they overcame feigned resistance from the Greys, rushed upstairs, and fired through the closed door. Hyrum, shot first, died instantly. John Taylor, an apostle, tried to escape out a window and was shot five times, but survived to later become the Church's third President. Only Willard Richards, another apostle, survived unharmed. Trying to go out the window to deflect attention from the two survivors inside, Joseph Smith was hit in the chest and collarbone with two shots from the open doorway and two more from outside the window. His final words as he fell to the ground outside the jail were, "O Lord, my God!" As rumors spread that the Mormons were coming, the mob dispersed.

Our Stake President spoke a great deal about Joseph Smith and this story at our meeting today. I have been doing a lot of thinking about our beloved Prophet and how I would like to be like him. I believe every Prophet since Joseph Smith (and probably prior to him) have been perfect examples to us in how we should live, behave, and treat others. Joseph Smith loved everyone and exemplified Christ in all things. He knew that he was going to die that night. He knew who those men were after and he tried to save the others who were with him. Even in those last few moments of his life, he was thinking of others before himself.

Birthday

2010-06-27T07:20:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to ME! I can't believe I'm 25 already.

Eviction Notice

2010-06-26T07:44:00.000-06:00

30 Day Eviction Notice!

**(I saw this on another blog and thought it was cute. I just had to share)

My Dearest Baby girl,

Your current eviction date of July 26, 2010 has been set for the past 240 days. In the past few months, I understand that you have become extremely comfortable in your current dwelling. Unfortunately, I need to discuss some of the key points of your lease with you.

The 4:30am dance parties were not discussed in your lease, and they've been doing damage to the walls.

The blockage of a numerous amount of pipes and the leaking of others has to be put to an end!

Also, as far as adding square footage to the dwelling, we discussed a reasonable addition. You have surpassed that by much more than we discussed.

I have prepared another home for you to reside, so don't let house hunting be the reason you stay. Should your eviction date come and pass, please note that I will use forceful measures to remove you. I would like for this transition to be as painless and quick as possible. Please don't make this any harder than it has to be.

Love,
Mommy

Temple Night

2010-06-22T12:11:00.004-06:00

When I was pregnant with Benjamin, Josh and I were living in Brigham. At 35 weeks we went to Stake Temple night. We were supposed to speak in Sacrament meeting the next day and thought going to the Temple would be a good way to get ready. We had been there for a little over an hour when something told me that the strange tightening, slightly painful, sensations I was having were contractions and I needed to get to the hospital. Josh's grandma was sitting next to me and I whispered to her that I thought I was in labor. She held my hand and told me to stay calm. Someone realized what was going on and passed me a watch just as my contraction was ending. 3 minutes later I looked at Grandma and said, "Three minutes!" She immediately stood up, grabbed my arm, waved to one of the Temple workers, and started for the door. Josh and his Grandpa followed close behind.

Out in the hall the Temple worker picked up a phone and explained to someone that she had "a young girl who is in labor and needs an escort." A few minutes and several contractions later, a man with a huge cast on his leg came with a wheelchair. As he pushed me out of the Temple we were met with MANY smiling faces and words of congratulations. I think EVERYONE there knew exactly what was happening.

Josh grandparents then drove us to the hospital. We had ridden with them to the Temple and didn't have our car with us. They had somewhere to go so they just left us there. My Dr was out of town so the on-call Dr told the nurse to give me a shot to stop the contractions. The shot worked for about 15 minutes and then I started contracting again. They gave me another shot and I didn't feel any more contractions but they were still registering on the monitor. So the nurse decided to check if I was dilating only to discover that I had started bleeding. She called the Dr back and he suggested we be transferred to Salt Lake. (Benjamin had to be born at the University hospital in Salt Lake because that is where his cardiologist is.) Because we didn't have a car, and because Josh wasn't too excited about the thought of delivering a baby in the car, the nurse called an ambulance for us.

The paramedics arrived soon after and wheeled me out to an ambulance. On the ambulance Josh asked one of the paramedics if he had ever delivered a baby and he said, "No, and we aren't going to start today." By this time I was feeling pretty sick. Partly from being jostled around in the back of an ambulance and partly because noone would let me eat anything.

As we were getting settled in to the hospital a girl walked in. I think she was about 15 years old. She said that she was the chief resident on call and would be handling my case. I told her that I didn't think I was contracting anymore. She looked at the monitor and said, "you are still contracting." Then I told her that I had started bleeding she said, "that usually happens when someone checks you." She told me that they would probably monitor me over night and send us home in the morning. She also informed me that I was still not going to be allowed to eat anything.

I finally started to relax and was almost asleep when the Chief resident girl came back. She said that they wanted to do a pap-smear, for some reason. They brought in about six people to help, no I'm not exaggerating. The chief resident girl looked up at me and asked, "how long have you been bleeding." Umm, I think I told you that when we got here and you said it was nothing!

Finally everyone left, someone brought Josh some Scrubs to wear as he only had his suit with him, and I was able to fall asleep. At about 3 in the morning, I woke up soaking wet. It took a while for me to realize what was going on. I woke Josh and said, "Push the nurse button, my water just broke." The nurse came in and asked like three times if I was sure that it was my water. Then, still not believing me, she took a sample of the fluid, "to see what we were dealing with." By the time she got the results of her test the chief resident girl had come back in. After it was confirmed that it was in fact amniotic fluid, she explained to me that they usually try to deliver pretty quickly after your water breaks.

I told her that my baby was breech and I was going to have to have a C-section. She the left the room and came back with an ultra sound machine to check the babies position. I looked up at the monitor to see me little guy sitting straight up with his legs crossed. There was no way he was going to be coming out on his own.

So, we headed to the Operating room. The nurses made Josh wait out in the hall while they got me ready. They put a shot into my spine that made me go numb from my shoulders down. Then they hung a big curtain in front of my face so I couldn't see what was going on. I kept asking them where my husband was and when they were going to let him in and they would say, "He's in the hall, we'll let him in as soon as you are ready." Finally Josh was allowed in and he held my hand. I don't remember a lot that happened after that until at 5:32am someone said, "It's a boy." And everything was silent. I thought, shouldn't he be crying or something? Then I heard this tiny little squeak and the chief resident lady said "here he is." She held up Benjamin who was pretty blue and covered in goop, and not happy. Then they passed him through a window into the NICU to have him checked out by the cardiology team.

A few seconds later, I suddenly could not breath. The room was spinning in circles and I didn't know what to do. Monitors started beeping like crazy and everyone was telling me to breath. Someone put a GIANT oxygen mask on my face. Then the anesthesiologist gave me some Valium and I don't remember much after that.

So, the point of this REALLY long post...
We are now living in Brigham City again...in the same Stake as before...Just shy of 35 weeks gestation...and Stake Temple night is this Thursday.

Should we go?