Banana's Fam

Happy 2 Baby Lah!

2010-03-18T12:55:00.000-07:00

Yep St. Patties day number 2. Love this creature. She is such a girl and does strange and wonderouse things. It sure has been an adventure. Thanks for keeping me on my toes angel (*_*)

Life in the fast lane...lol!

2010-03-02T04:03:00.000-08:00

Yeah, not really.
Updates on us....Aliya is such a girl. She loves to dress up, talk on her pretend cell phone and play doll house with mommy and brothers.
Dylan is getting better at enjoying school, maybe. His grandparents got the boys a Wii for xmas and we like to make Mii's and play the party games together.
Briggs is HUGE! keeps getting taller. I think the last time "he" measured he was 5'2'. Witch sucks cause I'm shrinking and he is 2' away from me. He likes school better this year. He still has "catching up" to do from the past 8 yrs of brain crazy....or subaracnoid cyst blah blah blah....he is feeling "tonz better and totally different" since his surgery. No more seeing all blue, memory loss, learning issues, constant headaches and dizziness, really bad mood swings, fainting or seizures. He had his fallow up MRI last October..."it's stable"...it was so hard going back, its funny how you are equipped to handle great stress and trauma and push it away somewhere....until you go back and it all comes rushing back 10 fold. Trying not to ball and hyperventilate from a rush of emotion we did it together. I think Briggs was just as flipped out "I just don't want him to tell me I have to get surgery again" He is so brave and inspires me everyday. We go back this October for another MRI. If it is still "stable" we will go back in 2 years for another MRI, and every 2 yrs for the rest of his life.
Scott, yep still the do everything guy. I forget all the stuff he takes on so I'll try to update with the correct titles best I can. Still detective 5 days a week for south jordan (sex crimes) He is a deputized Marshall or JCAT. Its a government agency that goes out and arrests people for warrants, drugs, abuse, chasing cop killers etc. The Utah JCAT is in the top 5 in the nation for the most arrests and closing cases. So they gave 1 person in every department a new Dodge nitro suv. His Sargent is also on JCAT , he could have kept it for himself but gave it to Scott. So he does that 2 a month ,scheduled, after he works at South Jordan and is also on call. He is on the union committee for South Jordan. He teaches detective classes on how to interview suspects properly, to make them confess quickly.....cause he is a pro;) He is on C.A.RT. its the Amber alert and child abuse thingy. He teaches a gun permit class ,sometimes once a month,....right to bare arms...for a friend/south jordan cop that started this business. He still works the district movies theaters on the weekends. He will do odd jobs here and there for security and for all the otheer agencies he affiliated with. He is moving up fast and has good recognition for all the cases he closes and arrests he has. We hope good things for him in the near future.
Me :) Not much new. Humira shots doing ok. I started physical therapy in January Im not able to go as much as I would like or P.T. would like but I love it. She is the only female p.t. for miles. She is doing hydrotherapy with me. I go to the Lehi legacy center, down the street from my home, and do pool exercises for 30-40 min. Its a little painful after but it's gotten better the more I go. I started walking with a ,good, and very old friend of mine in Jan too. We walk inside the legacy center about 3 times a week.(it's only .50) My rheumatologist doesn't like that at all. He asked me not to ,cause its a weight baring exercise & when I feel pain I shouldn't do it, do you think I listen....naaaah! It feels good to take control of something I was letting control me. Or even define me.
As you all know I love my beads. I have expanded the banana bead buiz. The infamous stretchy watches. After much frustration and months of surfing the web and boutique shopping I have an inventory! Woot woot! I'm really excited about this. I like doing new things it inspires and motivates me. I would like to go big with it but I'm mustering ideas.....always up for ideas....watch parties, you come make your own, etcy? eh?, ebay, boutiques. My first venture is this Thursday night shoe party/ my beads.....come and visit or wish me luck!(my house 6:30-8) I'm makin' bean dip;)
I am working on updating pics and will get some watch pics up too.

SWAT standoff ends with discovery of suspect's body - ABC 4.com - Salt Lake City, Utah News

2009-09-01T10:33:00.001-07:00

SWAT standoff ends with discovery of suspect's body - ABC 4.com - Salt Lake City, Utah News

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Shout out!

2009-08-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

There are no words for this womens endless talents.........check out the one she is sharing.
www.jenezecakedesign.blogspot.com
I love you ferfer!

Simple math....

2009-07-15T07:08:00.000-07:00

LOL! Me of all people....simple math....it's almost swearing!
I have recently had a ahah moment. 2 weeks ago the excuses ran out. All the common ones; It hurts worse after I work out than if I don't, I'll eat better tomorrow, I deserve this cause I worked out, I'm too tired, I'll start Monday (that ones my fav) but I'm lonely, depressed, sad, or not complete without this Mcds value meal or candy bar. There are so many more but I can only say this coming from a very stubborn thought process.....it will only make it worse!
Decide now; change a little here and there or use those sabotage mantras those commercials have taught us. Then in 2-5 years you'll 'wake up' look in the mirror and realize you've packed on more than the proverbial 10 lbs. That 10 is easier to maintain or loose than over 10.
So I guess my point is....simple math! Now don't start with...I don't have time....just brush that thought aside. You don't have time to help your body live longer, more healthy? You have scheduled oil appointments and yearly doc's exams. You have time to feed your kids healthy. All the calories you put in your mouth should be considered, if not accounted for and planned. Why? Good question. Why not? Why can't you over come those debilitating food mantras and habits? I'm not preaching! I'm the last person to do that. I'm simply letting you inside my mind.
Small steps; get up and move 3 x a day for 10 min a day. Try that for the first week, add another 10 min a day your next week.Think; less tired, feeling full, less pain in your body from harsh chemicals and fake sugars (they attack and eat @ the healthy living things in your body) you can't get them back! SMALL STEPS I SAID! Drink 1 less soda a day or start giving yourself 200 cal a day of anything you love. Yes I know I said the F word. Do you really believe you can't be full? I think we just get into bad habits and tell ourselves that or I could go off on a different tangent about the conspiracy from the food industry to feed us fake everything and empty calories so our bodies don't know any different, but I won't ;)
I'll sum up my rant; I have a new plan for me. I have started counting calories and being accountable for the power over my health.
calorieking.com I love this site! It tells you about every calorie! It also tells you what you how long you would have to work out to work it off! Don't get crazy on me...maybe you don't have time...make it simple. How much do you feel would be a manageable weight for you? For instance my goal,manageable, weight is 145 so I should consume @ 1450 cals a day give or take. (to loose the weight!) But this is the math part, especially if you have health probs like; hereditary high chol, diabetes, autoimmune deceases etc. The moving part is key to all of this. Take the stairs, park farther away from the door, ride your bike to your next destination, jump on a tramp, play hide & seek, pick a friend for walking time. If you have kids-include them- ask your husband to watch them, switch with a friend. I'm telling you there is an answer for every excuse that is running through your mind! (ask your doctor or dietitian for your personal weight loss goals!)

Things I'm working on; I love ask.com too. Look up 100 cal snacks. (Not the snack packs..not all the time...fruits, vegis, fiber, protein etc.)
You know those plastic picnic plates; 1/4 c lean protein-1/4 c of healthy starch (i have a list) and 1/2 c vegis. Just like the plate!
Don't forget the fiber this is the only F word that leads to the other F word' FULL!! Also 1 serving of healthy mono-fats & 1 serving of omega-3 (poly-fats)
TRY; to avoid hyd oils, dyes, chemicals, fake sugars & wash the pesticides of your fruits & vegis!
MY PLAN:
breakfast
snack
lunch
snack
dinner
snack-100 cal desert or sweets
There are so many recourse's. Look up recipes, ideas, support, success stories call a friend!
Don't give up!
Go, fight, win!

Imposing vacation?!

2009-07-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

Hello Utah friends! Long time no talk.
This post is for an imposing vacation. For 1 mommy & 3 kids. Just needing to get away for a day or two. Nothing special. Just a room & an occasional potty break. We will even bring our own food. We haven't had a chance to get away from it all in a long long time. Daddies always at work so I thought a super mini-vaca! As soon as today!
If you'll think I'm crazy; I agree! Thanks for listening!

Oh Sunday

2009-05-18T20:53:00.000-07:00

A random funny story. Yesterday we where running late to church as usual. Surprisingly I got dressed quickly with out the drama of I'm too fat for my clothes...bla...bla...bla. My poor black heals are a little old. The sole has been coming off for a while. So naturally I grabbed the super glue....all of you that are thinking you know this doesn't work...shut up. Yes , the voice was present and said don't put your foot in it for a minute cause that would super suck if it sticks to my foot. So I already stated we where running late (Scott had to cover the library) I put the shoe on.......
So I guess a picture would tell the story. I thought about it.
I walked around church with my small heeled sandal not fixed flopping half off the shoe ....yes stuck to my heel. I get home and attempt to soak the shoe off in the tub. No luck. Too tired & frustrated and absolutely ticked off I have to walk around another second in 1 inch heels. I sat down to think of how to get it off. Ahah! I cut the straps off my toes then cut around the stuck sole. LOL.....sad I know. I had the peace of sole stuck to my foot until 2 today.

fam pics

2009-05-04T22:54:00.000-07:00

I decided at the last minute to take a trip to thanksgiving point to take some mo's day pics. I have a new found respect for prof photogs (amy) Holy smokes! Every single time we tried to get all 3 kids together Aliya freaked and started crying. Ahrg!! So here are some samples of what we where able to get. Scott took over and decided he is the professional!

Same ol'

2009-05-02T22:08:00.000-07:00

Nothing new same ol' same ol'. Schools almost out. Mixed feelings of course. I hate waking up to an alarm, but I sure am sick of listening to the boys argue and fight. So we will have o think of new and crazy things so the boys don't kill eachother.

Scott is being naughty taking on more at work. Back on S.W.A.T. He also has a couple of other things lined up. My little over acheiver!

Shot update; I won't start felling full effects for another 2-6 months. Yes frustrating! I'm still trying to stay positive. I wish I could hear there was a cure one day. I'm so sick of hearing that from the perscription company....like I need a reality check.. Oh geese..thanks! Good news...Ive injected the last 2 shots myself! Crazy I know...especcially for me.

Aliya is cruzin! She loves walking...outside mostly! She loves walks on the path and feeding the ducks. Scott was doing security work at a horse race and she loved watching the horses run super fast. She loves to say "is at is at" (is that) She loves to dance and sing just like her mamma. That new black eyed peas song "boom boom pow" she dances and says boo boo shaking her head up an down wiggling her bum. Too funny!

Yeah we are a little freaked about the swine flu thing. Yes maybe a little over reacting too. To make a long story short the shot I take lowers my immune sytem. I'm not able to fight off infections. Esspecially the flu. So I'm trying to exersice some faith...pray for me that I can.

Happy B-day B!

2009-03-28T22:17:00.000-07:00

To my oldest angel....Happy 9th B-day!

My most helpful, brave, strong & sweet son. You have been such an example of love kindness & bravery to me. I love you so much!

Problemo

2009-03-25T00:26:00.000-07:00

I cant post pics on my blog! Something was changed on my husbands work puter.Good question. Who knows? Instead of my 2 front teeth I wish for my own computer. Sha right. Anyway, I'll post pics when the bug is gone.
Happy days!

Aliya Patricia

2009-03-17T09:44:00.000-07:00

Your smile brings the morning rays.
Sunny and bright with birds chirping at your window.
My only little girl's birthday on this beautiful day.
You are my inner peace. The calm to my storm. My inner glow.

I remember feeling so impatient for your arrival.
To finally hold you and kiss you, I couldn't sleep.
I couldn't take my eyes off your angelic face.
I felt like I had known you forever.
Our reunion was timeless.
Not whole, with your first breath my heart complete.

Yeah! Holy smokes it's been a year. I really do feel like it was yesterday. What a fun year. I would love to sleep this year.
Yes my 20lb 1 year old. Who'da thunk it? B and dyly where 20lb at 3months. Crazy!
Or favorite nick names.....Aliya poepeeya....Argentina( we sing don't cry for me Argentina when she cries) cuddle bug, monkey doodle & I forgot the others.

(updated pics by the end of the day)

Happy St. Patty day! Top o the mornin! Bangerange! Holy potatoes!
CHECK OUT THIS CAKE THAT MY AWSOME FRIEND FERFER MADE! YOUR SO NAUGHTY FERFER BUT THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!

Philosophy

2009-03-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

First of all this is just me thinking out loud. It is so not directed at anyone.

I know this bugs a lot of people but I am most definitely a philosophizing person. I can't help it. It is too much in my nature. I have tried to change thinking it was a bad thing...I am done with that thought. I have obviously been given this for a reason. I hate to say it, but I'm too old to care any more what people think of me, but this is me. Sure I can give advice....but for those that this makes their skin crawl....be reassured I am horrible at living this wisdom or life experience or knowledge or the tune in thing for my own well being. What ever you want to call it. I am a good third person to give my honest perspective on every angle. Because of my own life choices, and or mistakes and sins I think I am that person that could tell you whatever from all sides. I know my honesty has gotten me in trouble before too...I know I have offended before as well. But know that it was never my intention. The worst part about this is people think I am being nosey or a know-it-all, but honestly, these things just pop into my head when people are talking. Some things I can use a filter on and some things I know need to be said. I too would want those that are called my friends to be honest with me for I am a prideful but humbled spirit. I know it is kind of a contradiction but I think it is my curse. I am so comfortable with people that are brutally honest. It makes me feel like I can trust them. I have a hard time making friends with female gender to begin with so I love those that are real and straight forward. It takes A LOT to offend me. Did I mention A lot. So I guess my philosophy inquiry is.....
are you true to yourself and your thoughts and actions?
Do you offend easily?
Why?
Are you fake about your feelings around your friends because you are afraid of what they might think of you?
Why?

Always remember, I learned this the hard way, even if a friendship doesn't last; you where meant to meet that person and learn their best quality and apply it to your life.

Update..

2009-03-06T19:54:00.000-08:00

I started my Humira shots on Tuesday.....blaaahhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!
It is an experience I have a hard time articulating. I'm not one for digging this deep or opening up my weaknesses but I'll just pretend this is my health journal for my eyes only. So the shots come by overnight mail. In a perishable box...it has a small cooler and ice packs inside...super weird. Humira has to stay refrigerated. So it is a shot for my auto-immune issues.It basically attacks my over active immune system that is attacking and eating away my joints, bones & muscles. Side effects including; nervous system problems, nausea, feeling sick or weak, lowers immune system, dizziness....and blah more I'm too tired to list.

The first 24 hours tingling sensation and weakness in muscles. The next 48 hours nausea, dizziness, headaches, flu like symptoms. I actually feel better today. Still not 100%. My last 1 a week shot made me sick for 4 days. Not worth it!

So the actual shot itself is hard, cause of a huge phobia, I try to relax while Scott ices and swabs my hip, still cant relax, he jabs the needle in and it seems like forever.....then it starts to really hurt...but still not done...so not relaxing yet...finally pulls out then my leg starts to tingle and go numb moving up to my arm and other side of body.....fighting the urge to ball like a baby...cause I am too proud to cry....plus fear of side effects. So overall my drama mama moment. The deep rooted version; I don't look sick, but this just affirms it. It makes me feel old or even worthless. I know these are weird emotions but I hate relying on meds & doctors. I love all natural healing and herbal remedies. Don't get me wrong I am more than grateful for modern meds and the time I was born....I could be in a wheelchair, dying at 40. I'm not cause of these meds so I am grateful. I just hate feeling weak and being sick inside.

A NEW ME
(as per friends request)I made a commitment to take better care of me. I went into the doc last month....its been a while....and I asked him to check my blood....just a hunch. Yep cholesterol 317...and others high as well. So I had to change my diet drastically.
I try to walk for 30-45 a day. It is really hard to get out. I have to force myself to move. It hurts to work out but I know its good for me. I have lost 3lbs and 3inch this week.
Things I changed;
-cut out the pop~alternatives; 100% juice, water, green drink or sparkling water
-cut out dairy~alternatives; rice milk, IF i eat cheese 1/2 the fat swiss or mozzarella-(cheddar too much fat and cholesterol) watch out for that soy ladies it messes with female hormones and causes depression and breast cancer. (soy beans are fine..they are not processed) no butter or egg yolks
-lower salt content~alternatives; garlic, garlic powder, onion, chili powder, cilantro, parsley etc. check the labels don't buy seasonings with sodium or msg. Add herbs and spices instead of salt. They have cleansing properties your body needs.
-no red meat~alternative....death! I love steak. really lean pork, chicken, lots of fish.
-No white stuff~alternative;whole grains baby! Whole wheat bread, pastas(pastas in moderation still-like 1 a week) brown rice, home made popcorn, & rice crackers
-LOTS OF FIBER-flax meal in everything, (even substitute for eggs and oil in baking recipes) lots of green veggies-organic is always best even if frozen-or just clean your produce VERY well-BEANS, get excited about high fiber and protein filled kidney beans in salad or alone, black beans with mexican food, mmmmmm hummus!
-And of course-MOVE; it doesn't have to be a big ordeal. Just moves 3-4 different times for 10 min. When you feel more comfortable add another 10. To prevent bone damage use weights with every ten min. Use house hold items....cans, water, tools. Just get your heart pumping!
-And I am all for different herbs & teas :)

What new changes have you committed too?
What has worked for you?

Good ol' vitamin D

2009-02-23T10:05:00.000-08:00

Aaaah. The sun has been shinning. This last week was so nice. Aliya even got to crawl on the grass for the first time. She went nuts. It is now cloudy and overcast. I love that charge of the D. We need more sun!
Aliya is so funny,she crawls like a BMX rider. She gets excited and crawls really fast, then spins and sits, then crawls fast again, spins again and laughs. Its too funny to watch. She loves saying up, up the stairs, on the couch. She also growls at the dog or any dog for that matter. Not a big barker but a growler. Not walking yet but she loves to stand up in the middle of the room for everyone to clap. She like a little pop tart.
Tyring to get new pics....waiting for scott to bring home his camera....charged.

Does no sunshine affect you?

Amolishiouse.....

2009-02-09T16:01:00.000-08:00

I'm telling you once.....check out this blog! There are no words for it...just take time and enjoy! Use the link on the left..remember this photograpgy.
p.s. don't forget to look at the old posts too.

nope, nothing.........

2009-02-07T14:34:00.000-08:00

No new and exciting news with us.
Aliya is almost 1? Whaaaat! I think I was wishing I was sleeping. Nope not sleeping through the night yet. She is lil too. She has been 19lbs for 4 months. B & Dyly where so beefy.
Speaking of beefy...B is doing great. He says he feels like a whole new person. The dizziness, headaches, pressure & trouble concentrating is gone. I am so grateful for modern medicine for his sake. Poor kid. He is such a good sport. I am so proud of him. All he has endured. I feel like he is braver than me.
Oh Dylan! I love this complex soul. I Think I had a boy with is personality to get practice in for Aliya. (B was so calm and collected....poor kid was probably just suffering and never told us.) He is so deep rooted too. Complex.
I feel like superman cause the sun has come out for a couple of days. Or maybe just motivated. Does anyone feel like they are in someone else's body? My health went down hill at 25 and still declining. I am grateful for my knowledge in herbs, eating right & working out. I just wish I had the energy I used to to apply the knowledge. Isn't it funny how we seek knowledge not knowing what drives us and then when we are given the opportunity to apply......well you get the idea.
What drives you?
What obstacles have you grown from?
What knowledge do you have you don't apply?

yes! the holidays are over!

2009-01-05T18:29:00.000-08:00

So to get pics on my blog I have to copy them to my special card in my phone Scott got me, put it in the adapter disk thingy, unlock Scott's undercover popo trunk, sort through a shotgun and 5 black hard suitcases to get his fancy work Nikon and cord, (he uses for evidence an junk) put my adapter disk thingy in his camera, copy them onto his work computer he brings home on the weekends. I kinda forget how to do it so I bug Scott to copy it. Weeee, wasn't that fun. So that's why it takes me a while to get new pics up.
So we got RSV for x-mas at my house! It was a blast.
I wonder what gets us in a funk around now. I guess I should speak for myself. I think I'm lacking in major vitamin D. I hate feet of snow. We would like to move somewhere warm someday cause my body hates me. Did I mention I hate the snow. I love the mountains but I miss the weather never dropping below 65. (That was like hundred years ago.) So my point is,I think women should get tanning discounts so we all don't go postal in the winter. Leaving my house sounds like pulling my teeth out right now. Maybe it's in the water? Maybe it's obvious life choices and I just want to feel sorry for myself when I have so many blessing. I also think there should be a slapping service for people like me. Its a speed dial number on your phone, then within the hour someone comes to your door with a slap to the face. SNAP OUT OF IT!
LOL! Wouldn't it be nice if life where that easy. The "easy" button. I guess we wouldn't learn anything or become stronger to deal with later in life struggles. I'm rambling. So if anyone else is in a funk, how about those turn your life around words of wisdom.....or a good punch in the nose would suffice! I love, and miss you all!
peace out

Christmas for me....

2008-12-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

I should post more for the sake of my own records. I know I need to get more pics on too. I feel so scatter brained. I remember my life being organized and completed with daily tasks. Holy smokes, Ive been doing laundry every day for the past nine months. I am forgetting everything. A shout out to moms with more than 3! I suck! I was so confident I would have time for a surpirse baby when I was looking for work cause I was so board. Now I cant get my house stuff done cause Aliya fallows me around and pulls on my pants or stands up and just says mama mama mama mama. I am trying to enjoy our last child. Most of the time I think I am too old for this stuf. Aliya just turned 9 months on the 17th and still wakes up every 3 hours for a bottle at night. She has 2 teeth and is climbing and crawling like a monkey.
Briggs is doing awsome. He feels great. He says the nerves they cut are still sensitive. His hair has grown back and he is affraid to cut it.
Dylan loves school and is obssesed with Briggs' DS he got in the hospital from grandma and grandpa. That is all he wants for christmas.
Scott, well you can only imagine if you read the last post.
So I am not that happy, jolly christmas person. My memories of christmas with my family and my grandmother when she was alive was so magical to me. I feel like that magic died with her. I know I am not honering her legacy. She was the most careing, selfless, and happy person. She loved overdoing everyithing. Esspecially the holidays. Yes I am the grinch more so than you think. So I need to work on bringing my own magic to my family with her spirit with traditions and joy.
What is christmas for you?

Crimes against children task force

2008-12-14T00:06:00.000-08:00

So for those that don't know my husband does this horrific job every day. The burden that he carries of manipulating truth out of manipulated , abused children is a huge burden. I want to give a shout out to my courageous suffering husband and all others that suffer of the most horrific stories of children's nightmares come true. I am so grateful and sick to my stomach for the pain and baggage my husband carries to help others. I am so sick of hearing about self righteous Mormon's that say there children do nothing wrong. They just ignore the truth in there own homes and judge others for the same things. The stories he comes home with make your stomach twist. My husband SUFFERS all day and night with details of a child's face and actions in these interviews with ALL the info of there distorted lives.
I want everyone to be grateful for those that keep nightmares of things that are unspeakable at bay.
I LOVE YOU SCOTT, AND ALL THAT YOU SUFFER!

Ive been tagged. (more than once)

2008-11-17T08:48:00.000-08:00

I have a hard time with this. So I will do my best. Sigh!
Things that people don't know about me. (most people ;)

1. I hate pink and fru fru stuff. My mom dressed me in pink flowery lace, gloves and hats when I was a child. So I grew up hating anything flowery and especially pink and girly.
(funny-cause I have to be more forgiving with my new lil Aliya)

2. I spent most of my childhood in summer adventures. Like 4 wheeling, camping, deer hunting (gutting & eating :(, shooting guns, snowmobiling, working on a ranch, riding horses, exploring caves and mines.

3. I was raised in Cali on the San Fran coast. We lived on the beach. My mom, me and my older brother went to the beach everyday! We climbed cliffs, collected shells, explored tide pools, ran from sea lions. We where always encouraged to push our limit of fear. My mother was very insane at the beach.

4. I have eaten at a fancy restaurant with 5 courses. s cargo-salad-soup-sherbet to cleanse my palate-and I forgot the main course & desert. I was about 9yrs old. There where huge crystal chandeliers, velvet chairs, elaborate art on the walls and ceilings & beautiful linens and dishes.

5. Ive been in a tornado. This restaurant we used to go to as a kid on the pacific coast was on a cliff on the ocean. After we ate we went outside and the wind was blowing so hard that my feet where blowing out from under me. I was holding onto the railing screaming. I was convinced I was going to blow off the cliff into the ocean and die. My dad was laughing and holding onto my hands ,clutched to the railing, trying to calm me down. So technically it wasn't a tornado just 80 mile an hour winds. :D

6. It goes against my nature to fallow a recipe. I always have to add a little here and there. I get it from my mom. She is a gourmet cook. Ever since I can remember my mother has cooked amazing & exotic foods. Most she has created in her mind w/o a recipe.

7. My natural hair color is light brown. I have died my hair since I was 13. I hate my natural hair color. (on me)I have even done blond highlights and auburn-purple red.
When I was a kid I had bleach blond hair down to my waist. My mom took me to get my hair cut-she left me alone with the hairstylist-and I asked her to chop it off. OH yeah, Boy short. I loved it. I think my mom cried when she got back.

8. I have a licence to do nails. I took nail school 11 years ago. I hated working in a salon. I cant stand gossip and backstabbing petty girls.

9. I LOVE MUSIC! My parents loved the classic rock and I still love it. I love all kinds of music and can't stand some. My fav is rock. I love to head bang when I don't have kids around. Music is so theraputic for me. LOVE IT!

Friendship

2008-11-10T11:49:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful for my friendships. It seems when we let our pride down for a minute and ask for the friends that are going to make us better people they magicaly apear. I have asked for that blessing. Holy cow! I have always kept to myself, because of childhood experiences left me skeptical and not able to trust anyone. I have grown out of that. Wisdom from past mistakes and hardships left me so bitter and a lone that I couldn't stand my life anymore. So I opened up, came out of my shell & tried to be a better friend. It so amazing what power people have. The one that bring you down., lift you up & make you a better friend. So to name some names that paved the way to open my cold bitter heart;

Michelle Farr my older sister that took care of me and opened up her home and life to a teenager. She was my neighbor in provo canyon. I started out watching her son Chase when he was barely 2. Then she moved to Orem and let me help her. I was a live in nanny. She let me live with her and dealt with Scott too. She helped me at such an early age. I think I was 15 when I lived with her. I loved taking care of her beautiful children, making dinner, and being a part of her family. Belli-thank you for your charity. I am in your debt for saving my life. You gave me such a purpose for life and love. Your love for life and taking care of your body helps me today. Your fight for life inspires me to fight like you for things that you love. Our hardships have made us stronger and more loyal. I love Chase and Kenz like my own sis & bro. I call them every year on their b-days to let them know how much I love them. Now 16 & 19. Wow I feel old! I love you guys.

Rachel Morgan. My neighbor and sister in crime. Thank you for you charity and love. She helped me through a huge ruff patch. We are so much a like. We literally lived on the same stoop. We would hang out at each others house and talk in our Jammie's all day. She helped me out with Dylan cause I sucked at being a mommy. She inspired me to stop wearing black and grey and open up to new fashion possibilities. Rachel thank you for your sweet, charitable heart. You have been such a perfect friend. I wish our lives weren't so crazy. I wish you lived next door to me. I miss your visits. You are so honest and loyal. You taught me to be myself, love myself and take better care of myself, my home & my children. I love you girl!

Amy Harrison. You have been so charitable and inspired me to be a better mother and crafter. You are such a good cook and can do everything perfectly. Your pictures are perfect! I am so grateful for your friendship. I have always felt I didn't deserve it. Thank you for preserving my baby pics with your perfect talent. I love you!

Chelon Colquit has the power to change your life. She helps you trust and love others. She is so charitable and kind. She is so normal too I love her for loving you for no matter where you are and kicking your butt if you need to be better. Especially with the gospel. I love you
Chelon I miss you terribly. I wish I was a better friend when you where still here. I carry a lot of guilt. You are a true and genuine friend to everyone.

My next stepping stones where Shana and Jen. We where neighbors it seems like forever. We have been through so much together. Shana and Jen are so close. I sometimes envy their unity. I am so grateful they included me in there friendship. Shana is too funny. She has such a sweet heart. She is so generous with her compliments and genuine love for all she meets. She has a huge list of friends that she has under her happy spell. She is so positive an happy. She is a strong woman and goes through so much in her life that she does not deserve. Shana I love you so much. You have made me more positive and compliment people more. It is so rewarding to be more like you. I wish you less stress and more of what you give out to all of your friends.
Jen is the silent storm. She is so gentle, but fierce in her talents. She is such a good example of keeping her calm. Shana and I make fun of her cause we want to hear her yell. She can't. We envy that. But she too is a sweet spirit. I have known her for 5+ years. She is always there for her friends and family. She gives you a purity and comfort in a crazy and mean world. I love you tonz Jen.

This next group has taken such a huge chunk of negativity out of my life. I feel like I don't deserve them sometimes. I lived in Riverton and I got a job at a day care in a all girl gym.
Heather you rock! She is such a good listener. And brutally honest. She tells you how it is. I love her honesty. You can trust her to not get emotional about everything and laugh about life. She uplifts your spirit and is so loyal to the friends she has. She has the cuttest style. She is always dressed in the cutest clothes. I love you feader. Thanks for always pushing me to be happy and laugh even when I didn't want to.

Mandy. Oh geese! I love this girl. I am grateful for Heather introducing me to such a good friend. She has twin girls that are too adorable. I love to babysit them. Mandy is also honest and giving. She has a huge heart. She is so charitable. She is that friend that you can always count on to love you for you and tell you how she feels. She is also a person that is refreshingly honest and loyal. Mandy, I Love you so much. Thank you for clothing my baby. You have been more than generous. I feel like I owe you my life. Thank you for your example of love and charity. You have no idea what those cheesy texts do for my day, for my life! I love you!

After a few months at the gym my neighbor in Riverton came out of her shell. I am so blessed that she chose to trust me. Bobbie.......I love you so much. You have givin me so much strength to deal with my past and present struggles. Your strength, loyalty & love have inspired me. You are my voice of reason the calming of my storm. Thank you for loving me for me. I love to hang with the Mascaros! (scott too)

Debbie. lol! "Everyone needs a Debbie" She is too funny. She has a genuine heart and undying loyalty to her friends and family. Thank you for being such a good example of charity and loyalty to the people in your life. Love you ,Your awesome!

My new found angels and neighbors Jean-Marie & Hannah. These 2 partners in crime have shown me so much love. They love me for me. They are non-judgmental. I am so grateful for their faith and strength that inspires me. I can ask them deep questions and they give such honest heart felt answers. I am so grateful for them letting me be part of their friendship circle. Your laughter and sense of humor have inspired me to be more silly. Thank you for your visits and treats. You have also been my saviors in a time of CRAZY. I love you girls! And our GNO!

I love all my friends and am so blessed for everyone that has touched my life.
A MILLION THANKS!!!!!

Sureal

2008-10-28T16:11:00.000-07:00

It has been a crazy week. I have lost track of time completely. I feel like I'm in the twilight zone.
Briggs' surgery was scheduled for last Wednesday. So Tuesday we went in for the pre op appointment with the neurologist and to do the surgery class that primaries has for the kids. We were upstairs in same day surgery check in waiting for the class and going over his surgery time for the next day. B decided to pass out and have a seizure. So they rushed him on the table started putting iv's in him and oxygen. While he was screaming and crying "i don't want surgery" we tried to explain it wasn't surgery time. He couldn't calm down. They admitted him and said the surgery had to be postponed for further tests. He had an eeg (brain waves) and a ekg (heart waves). They said he has a problem with blood pooling in his legs that causes him to not get blood to his brain fast enough so he faints. Yes I know it doesn't answer anything. We are still working on that one. They said everything was ok to go on with the surgery. B had his surgery on Friday. It took 3 hours. The cyst took a 1/4 space in his brain. He was in the PICU for 24hrs. He was having a hard time breathing-cause he holds his breath when he is in pain. He also won't tell you he is in pain cause he hates medicine. So the first day was super hard on him. He wouldn't eat cause they had the oxygen thing in his nose. So we felt like we where tag team wrestling. After they took out his catheter and 3 of his 4 iv's they sent him to the nuero trauma unit. He still struggled allot on Saturday letting us know what he needed. Then he just got up and started walking around on Sunday. So they said he could go home on Monday. He was supposed to be in the hospital for 5 days. Crazy! He is doing allot better. His mood is ok if he has medicine in him. Its just getting him to take it. The doc said no recess or playing for 4 weeks. In 4 weeks he gets another CT. There is always a chance of it growing back. You just never know.
We are so grateful for his recovery.
Thank you all for your faith and prayers!!!!
Grandma helped out with the kids and cleaned my house. We are so grateful to our famliy and friends that helped out. It has helped with the load!

Yeah! October!

2008-10-04T15:02:00.000-07:00

I love this season. It is by far my favorite season.
I find the air and the clouds calming and serene. It reminds me of growing up in the San Fransisco bay area. I wish for new bones and joints to be able to appreciate it like i used to.

So those that have phobias can relate to my stubbornness when it comes to my health. I have auto immune problems. For some strange reason the answer for the best future of my bones and joints is my biggest phobia. I have endured this once before but side affects outweighed the risk. I have tried a handful of oral rx but they keep giving me ulcers or make me loose chunks of my hair. So I switched specialists and did the complete overhaul, again, and he told me my bones have some damage and I shrunk one whole inch. I finally am at my whits end of having no energy from no sleep and endless pain. So I agreed on a new treatment. Injections again...blaahhhh! Poor Scott has to endure my stress from my pure hatred for needles and inject me twice a month. I can't complain at least it's not every week, like before. Don't get me wrong I am more than grateful for living in this time to deal with this opposition. I can not imagine this life without relief of some kind, even when it is only a little.
So my point is, I know I have been blessed with wonderful friends, I would love to hear any advice or comments that would lighten my mood. (it seems little and kinda sad to have a fear of this-It makes feel weak)

Briggs' surgery is on the 22nd. He will be in intensive care for the first 24 hours then 2-4 days in the Primary children's hospital. He will be out of school 2-3 weeks. He is disappointed that he will not be at a 100% for trick or treating, but we encouraged him with a wheel chair if he was up to it. School is going well-he loves science and math.

Dylan loves school. He loves the songs he learns. He comes home and sings them for me. After he plays at is bff Logan's house.

Aliya is skooting and rolling. She babbles a lot too. Especially when chili dog comes to lick her. She loves the dog. She laughs and kicks her. She loves to give bib wet kisses and cuddle. I think she says mamma but she just might be teething. She is so sweet. We are so blessed to have her!

Bitten.......

2008-09-05T22:24:00.000-07:00

I was bitten by a vampire....yes I finally read the Twilight saga. OH GEESE!!! That pretty much sums it up. I couldn't set them down. I read it in 7 days. Pathetic, I know. I can't imagine having to wait for a book to come out. I am glad I waited until they where all out so I could just keep reading until it was over. WOW!! OH yeah, and OH GEESE. I won't spoil it for those who haven't read it, which I highly recommend, but it was by far the BEST books I have ever read. Stephanie Meyer has a magic about sucking you into the book and being right there with and in the whole story. I am usually a Stephen King, Dean Koontz, anything with suspense kind of book. I have to be shocked or scared to stay interested in books. This saga is that and more. I can't even remember witch book was witch. It's a jumble of perfection. Sad!! Some of my friends are planing to go see the Twilight movie in November-let me know if you wanna join us-it will be a hoot!

Dylan loved his 1 day of school. He is having so much fun and learning a lot. I was kinda lonely the first couple of days and didnt know how to spend my time until I picked up "the" books.

Briggs is doing well. He isn't as sick about his surgery as before. He can now talk about it casually and ask q? anytime. We will pick a date after his MRI on the 23rd. We will keep you posted.

My reumatologist said I needed to go to the dermatologist to get some gross lumps on my elbows and knuckles biopsied....aaahhhhh!!!.....I hated it and almost past out. I even gave my self a pep talk....you can do this you went through excruciating natural childbirth ripped from you insides and stitched from high heaven, you can stand a hole in your elbow with a few stitches...hah!....she had do stitch me upside down in my chair so the blood could run back into my head. I hate being a chicken about needles and junk. I will update more when my elbow doesn't feel like exploding :)

2008-08-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

We have had a crazy 2 weeks it seems like a century. Thank you for your kind words and for thinking of Briggs. For my friends that found out through the blog; thank you for your patience and friendships. I couldnt call my closest friends and tell you all the story over and over. This is our first tramatic experience with one of our living children and we have no experience in how to deal with this. Thank goodness for modern times.

I am so greatful for such great friends that have great faith. Thank you for your strength and positive outlook. You all inspire me to be more like you.

Scott decided it was time to spend time together as a family this week in light of things. His work was sensitive to the situation and said take as much time as you need. We went to chuky cheeses-had a picnic at the park-went out to lunch-school shopping and scott took the boys to the zoo. Fun times!

Briggs starts school tomarrow. He is soooo excited. He has a super nice teacher. She just moved here from Chicago. They are in a trailer behind another trailer. No water fountain and no bathroom. Saweeeeet!

Dylan starts Kindergarten on the 25th. He finally lost his first tooth bitting into an orange.

I am still far behind on the laundry. When I get it done the next day there are 3 more loads. How does that happen. I think that our laundry rooms should be big elaberate rooms with our favorite colors, a couch(or massage chair), a tv, snack machines. A hanger rack like at a dry cleaners and bins for every family members clothing items. Lets do away with closets for clothes and have everyone dump their clothes down a laundry shoot and come get their clothes from the "laundry closet" You would never have to transport a million loads from room to room. Just get it done in your little sanctuary and leave the clothes in the room for them to get as they need them.

Briggs Elliott Russell or B

2008-08-11T13:38:00.000-07:00

My first born. I remember standing in line at the DMV in Orem with Scott seeing his mother's maiden name on his form. Briggs. I said "that's it, that's the babies name" Scott said, "what if it's a girl" I said it wont be, it will be a boy and his name is Briggs. The name fits him so well.
At 36wks pregnant my water broke at 6am. It gushed, like a waterfall. I will never forget the look on Scott's face. We went to the provo hospital and checked into triash. They tested me with the tape and they told me I must have peed my pants. I looked at Scott and we both laughed. We thought we where candid camera. They where ready to send me home a liar when Briggs' heart rate dropped dramatically. They came running in saying that we where having a baby today and that they would have to break my water and induce labor. Later the doctor "tried" to break my water and he looked puzzled and said "huh, I guess your water did break" ya think?! The anesthesia came.....those with weak stomachs, skip this part.....the putossin was hitting strong and I was really nervous that B was stressed. I needed drugs! So the numbing shot went in then the "needle".....I remember her twisting, and hearing my spine crackle, and the pressure! She had to pull the needle out 2 with blood running down my back, she decided I needed to have me sit up and I needed to touch my toes. LOL! Yeah I know- I couldn't even drive my car with B he was a biggin. So the 3rd time was the charm with a huge contraction and the numbing shot long warn off , me in zen mediation, it was finally in.(I am getting sick just thinking of the pain.) (not as bad as natural labor tho) Anyway,about 6 hrs later, March 28th 2000 at 12:46pm, 7lbs 16oz 19in my B was born.
Last Monday I took the kids to the store for a doughnut. Just a normal morning at the store..B was complaining how thirsty he was, I asked him to wait a minute. B fell off the cart (the blue ones where kids can sit on,up high) on his shoulder then flipped his head back, hitting his head, having a seizure. His eyes where open and the seizure lasted for about 15 seconds, it felt longer, then he came to saying he was going to hurl. This nice young lady came over that worked there and asked if I needed anything I asked her for a garbage can. (when everyone else ignored the whole thing)I got him up managed to get him sitting again. We went to get him a drink and I made an appointment with our doc in A.F. B was pale and not talking much. They got us in immediately. Briggs was still really sick to his stomach, dizzy and his head hurt. 3 doctors assessments later they suggested we go to A.F. ER-Just down the street. A nurse helped us over there with baby, Dyly an B. Scott was on his way. Telling the story of his fall a billion times later. They gave him a cat scan. I had to leave the hospital cause the baby was fussy and Dylan is just Dylan. Walking out of the hospital trying to keep my composure, I felt so guilty leaving him with Daddy. By the time I got home Scott called to tell me the results of B's cat scan. Arachnoid cyst on the back left side of his brain. They sent up the results to Primaries to the neurologist. Scott keeping his calm being with B in ER, I lost it. We didn't tell him anything until we went up to primaries the next day and had the neurologist explained it. The doc asked us to come back in 2 days for an MRI to make sure there was no cancer and what his state was, cirtical, or non-critical. He did the MRI w/o sedation. He was so brave. They let him watch a movie. He thought it was awesome! I sat in the room and thaught I was going to be deff. Then he got stressed again when we saw the doc and where talking surgery. He is so upset that he will feal it. The doc said he is not in critical condition like he thaught with the cat scan, but we have to keep a close eye on it and him.
Postirior Fossa Craniotomy; they put a small incision behind his ear and take out a chunk of skull and drain the pocket of fluid and strip the membranes, put the bone back. He would be in the hospital for 4 days and in recovery for 4 weeks. We are going back in 5 wks for another MRI and to see the doc. We have to track his headaches and dizzines. It is about 3in long 1in thik 2in deep. It's seems huge when you see it. It is pushing his brain over to the right. They say he has most likely had it since birth. In the cat scan you can see how the bone grew over the cyst. If you feel the back of his head there is a bump. Poor B has had a whirlwind kind of week. We aren't talking about it around him cause he is having a hard time with it. So when we do talk about it with others we make sure he is not around.
We love our B so much. We are grateful for our friends and family, and for the MRI that helped make things seem less critical. We don't need anything and are making days as normal as possible for him. Thank you for your prayers!

2008-08-03T14:34:00.000-07:00

So I have been a little hard on myself for not being as OCD as I used to be. About the house being clean, the boys on a schedule(well it's summer) And how I have a hard time doing much of anything. I relized that it isn't all that easy, for most people, doing everything 100% when you get 4-6 hours of sleep a night. I'm actually doing pretty well for being the only adult, in the house, that cleans. Isn't it awsome how we where created to withstand such oposition and still cook dinner at night. CRAZY! I can't complain, I am so greatful that my baby girl is healthy with no problems.

Another thing to point out...those of you with your health in tact; don't take advantage of doing even the simplest things. Getting in and out of the tub, putting shoes on and off, opening a water bottle, chopping food for din din, going to the movies, long car rides, making a fist, sitting on the floor to play legos with your kids, simply walking or trying to work out, wearing high heals (anything thats not a flip flop:) I wish I would have been more greatful for my youth, health & energy. I know it could always be worse-the point is to be greatful for all good things and bad.

Summer is over allready? I am freakin for back to school. I dredd shopping with 3 chilins. Uhg! I am tempted to go online for school shopping this year. GO E-BAY GO WALMART! I am so greatful I don't have kids old enough to care about the label on their clothes, this year. Dylan is going to kindergarten-scary huh. He also has his 1st loose tooth. We are so excited. I feel like Dyly is still so little. I forget how old he is. Briggs was so much bigger at his age. I can't keep trakc of 3. How do those of you with more than 3 keep track of all the details of each child?

My baby Aliya-she has this new thing where she grabs her feet all the time. When she is laying down grabbing her feet is the cutest thing. I don't remember B & Dyly doing that. I love it. She is also grabbing and shuving. I love the that no matter what she can get her hands on it has to go straight to her mouth. She loves to smile and giggle at everything. She is a happy girl.

Black Bead Design-Adhis is the winner! I had such a hard time choosing. Thank you for playing. Everything is in their envelopes ready to go. I just have been to lazy to go to the post office. Keep your eyes peeled for your surprises.

Memory tag

2008-07-23T21:19:00.000-07:00

1- Post in comments a memory of when we met or a funny story.
2- Post the same instructions on your blog. (see how many people play)

Baby wardrobe

2008-07-20T15:49:00.000-07:00

I baught my 1st outfit for Aliya last week at kid to kid.(cute dress!) Not cause I had to,cause I wanted to. I would like to give a shout out to my dearest freinds that have given clothing to Aliya. We are more than greatful for your sweet spirits and charity. It really saved us more than you will ever know. Thank you, Thank you, THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!

Aliya's 4 month check up

2008-07-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

13 lbs (25%) 24 inches long (50%) Her head is in the 95%-Just like Briggs a huge head. I remembered a funny story when they told me her head was so big. When Briggs first started to walk, we lived in Orem at the time, his head was so big he would walk past things, (like a bed, the couch) and he would have to lay his head down to rest. hahahahah It was such a funny sight-he would toddle by the couch playing and carrying on then as he was moving set his head down, ear down, only for a moment then continue on his journey. Too funny. I wish I had a picture to show you to see it.
You guys are so funny with the names your coming up with for the jewelry naming contest. I cackled really loud to the vandaley-obviously! This is fun-keep going.
Ok so those with seasoned children; is there a way to get your kids to get a long or to not fight and argue over every little thing? I feel I am doing something wrong. BIG TIME! I guess I need to pick my battles, and be more patient with them when I know they miss there dad. If anyone has any advice. Maybe I could start over.....that would be awsome. Too many regrets and not enough appretiation.
Anyone want any zucchini? For some reason we planted 2 bushes. Ahhhhh! I don't know what else to do with it! Do you have any recipes. I would have rather of had pumkins! I LOVE HALLOWEEN! It's getting close! not really :(

HELP!! Jewelry naming contest...

2008-07-14T11:51:00.001-07:00

My wonderful freinds. I need your assistance. I am in desperate need. I have had this buisiness for who knows how long and I have just used my name. I need help naming the company. Everyone who participates will get something cool. Whitchever name I pick the winner gets something wicked cool. (jewelry of course) Thanks for your help. I love you all and miss you all so much. I am so greatful for all of your freindships. I wish I could be more like you all-you all inspire me to be better. Thank you!
See I updated finlay-luv u Amos

Buisy summer

2008-07-12T17:08:00.001-07:00

Just kidding. It feels buisy with our new addition. We don't take trips to Disneyland or some exotic island. We just hang out.

Briggs and Dylan are the 2 amigos. As much to Brigss' dismay and frustration. They play outside together and fallow eachother everywhere. They love to play with their friends.

Scott has 3 jobs now. His detective FT job and 2 PT security jobs. 1 security job at the district theaters in Sojo and security for the Sojo temple construction. So on his days off from his FT job he works his PT jobs. We are greatful for these jobs cause it keeps us a float. He jsut cracked a big case he has been working really hard on. If you heard on the news almost 2 weeks ago about a bank robery in Sojo, Scott has been working some seriouse hours to find the theiving, hiding robers. They kept slipping away. He finlay found them all an cracked the inside job bank robbery. Good job detective daddy!

Aaaah, I am not sure what I have to update with my uneventful life. I try to keep my house clean. The boys are good helpers, it's a big job for us to take on. I still hate laundry....it grows like mold. I am trying to loose a million pounds, I hate dieting, I wish I had a gourmet cook plan and cook my meals-and serve me beautiful dinners. I also try to make jewelry when I get 5 minutes. My freinds' sister lives in Oregon and works at a boutiqe. They baught some baby bracelets and binki holders from me a while ago. They said they will see how they sell and they will call me with a new order if it goes well. PRAY it all sells and they order lots more. I am so excited for this opportunity. I hope it pans out. I have a hard time being productive. I try to rest my body when I am not holding the baby or cleaning. I love to DVR chick flicks and watch them. I feel I could get so much more done; I wish I could scrap book my billions of pictures. But I feel so overwelmed with that many pictures. (Does anyone have any ideas to keep it simple.) I wish I could keep new hobbies simple. It just seems like I have to go overboard, for me, for it to look as good as Amy's and Chelon's stuff. I wish I was a super mom and got all these things accomplished. (ie like those 2 names above)

Happy Fo's Day

2008-06-16T15:44:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great Fo's day. We just hung out at our house an had a BBQ with the in-laws. It was such nice weather. Does anyone have family traditions for mo's & fo's day? I love traditions even on small events.

Life with the Russell's

2008-06-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

Aliya is too funny, she talks your ear off. Especially when you're face to face with her. Smiling and goo and cooing. It's too funny. When she gets bored she starts yelling at you instead of crying....eeh! eeeeeh! Her personality fits her allready. Aliya has daddy wrapped around her lil' finger. She knows when daddy holds her he will entertain her by walking around ,talking & singing to her. So when he tries to sit an hold her she starts yelling at him. It's funny to see him get up so fast.

Briggs was invited to reading summer school. He goes for 3 hrs every week day, he loves it! Then he takes Dylan outside. They love to play outside. They built a fort in the trees with aunt Jean when she visited.

Daddy took the boys fishing and they caught 2 big fish. They braught the biggest home. They loved it when daddy gutted in and samshed it with a rock. Dylan ran up to me, "mommy, we caught a fish and then daddy smashed it with a rock and blood went everywhere". Don't you love it when boys get excited about that stuff?

Scott's new news; The dedective in sex crimes quit, Scott applied and is now a sex crimes detective. He is super buisy but he likes the recognition. And the stress of that kind of work, I'm sure you can use your imagination.

Mamma-well I am working on laundry! It seems to get bigger and bigger. It's funny how much energy you don't have to do the stuff you where so anal about before she got here. Now I just let it go. That's pretty big for me.

The rolls are forming....

2008-05-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

Beware, Aliya is forming fat rolls. It is getting harder not to squeeze too hard. Or take a bite out of her. I love it when she wakes up smiling and cooing. She is so funny. She looks so much like Dylan we have to keep a bow or something pink on her at all times. She is too girl though- she has to be held and the center of attention at all times. It is her 2 month b-day today. She is about 9 1/2lb 22inches long. So I have to tell you this funny story; Scott came home from work last week and was holding Aliya, he said "she is so wiggly" "is something wrong with her?" "should we call the doctor to see whats wrong with her?" LOL! Too funny. He is in such a panic about everything with her. He says 'I don't remember Briggs & Dylan doing that" so something must be wrong. Briggs & Dylan love to hold her and make her smile. They still tell her to be quiet when she cries; they plug their ears and say "Aliya be quiet".
Daddy is still lovin' detective work. It is buisy but he loves it. Briggs is almost out of school. And Dylan only talks about what he wants for his b-day!

Happy Mother's day

2008-05-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

Yea time flies with 3. I can't imagine more. I think ya'll are crazy! (amy & chelon) It is too much fun seeing Aliya grow. Her eyes fallow you around the room. She is starting to coo at us and smiles at everything. Her smile make everything worth while. We are so greatful for her lil' spirit. I just want to thank all my friends for their comments and support.
You all have to check out my very talented friends website amyharrisonphotograhy.blogspot.com holy cow so talented and fun!

2008-04-20T15:03:00.000-07:00

What a crazy 4 weeks. Aliya got her 1st ear infection on her 1 month b-day. Poor lil' thing.
The boys love their sister. "Can I hold her" Briggs will hold her for at least 3-4 min. Dylan on the other hand is still an 8 seconds kinda brother. Daddy likes to sing to her and take her for walks ,around the house, when she is bored.
Mommy is puttin along like an 80 year old-but she is worth all the pain. I love her too much. I have a hard time not squeezing till her head pops off. :0)'
I just want to thank all my friends. I am so greatful for all the clothes and formula. Aliya was a surprise and we are so greatful for all your charity. As my good friend Mandy said ,when I freaked out about $, "everything will work out" It is so true. We haven't had to buy clothes or formula yet. So thank you all for easing the burdin and being such wonderful friends. I am so greatful for your service.
Thank you for those that have left comments. I have some lonely days and I love to read your notes. It makes me feel less alone. I love you all!

2008-04-05T11:44:00.000-07:00

Week 3 and still putting along. Aliya is so awesome. I just stare at her an think "I am so happy you are here." I feel like it's a reunion of some sorts and I have been waiting so long for my "lil' gril" to be here in arms distance. Along with the stress of protecting and keeping her safe from harm. No one warned me about that.
All is well with the new addition to the Russell fam; the boys just give her kisses and tell her to be quiet when she's fussy. Chili dog is still wondering what the heck! Scott loves his lil' precious.

2008-03-31T15:45:00.000-07:00

2 weeks ago to the day. 6lbs 14 oz an 17in long. (she weighed 7, 12 & was 21in today.)
Aliya Patricia came on St. Patties day. No, Patricia is not for fun cause the day she was born-it's a family name. My late grandmother that passed unexpectedly at a young age. I believe she left this life to plan and prepare Aliya to come to us. I would not ask for a better person to teach and prepare the value of life than her. She was a beautiful ,perfect woman. We love her an miss her dearly.
Aliya was decided at the hospital cause Scott hates the name Eden. He said people would make fun of her name when she got older. So all those that want to send hate mail please address it Scott Russell :0),
She is so beautiful and lovely as a little girl should be. We are so grateful for her health and strength. She is such a blessing in our lives.
Briggs and Dylan haven't gotten too excited about the whole thing yet. They kinda ignore her right now. Since she sleeps a lot. But they kiss her on the head every once an a while.

MY FIRST BLOG!!!

2007-12-31T10:31:00.000-08:00

HI, My name is Shanna. Shanna Russell and I am going to have a baby GIRL FINALLY!!! I have been waiting my whole life for this moment in time. I can't wait. I hope you all are excited as I am. So just keep waiting for some awesome pictures at the end of March for my sweet cheeks.