My Growing Boy

My weeks of prepping Ezra for the return of his grandparents from China was tremendously successful.  We had many, many, many conversations about their arrival, looked at their picture constantly, and talked through the homecoming scenario.  They arrived home late on Monday July 1 and Ezra got re-acquainted with them the next morning.  There was some initial shyness, a little bit of hiding behind my legs, but it was short-lived.  By bedtime that night, he wouldn't go to sleep without goodnight wishes from Grandma and Grandpa.  The transition has been beautiful. 

Ezra especially enjoys Grandma's company, and calls to her anxiously even if she goes upstairs just to brush her teeth.  He likes to know where they are in the house and what they are doing.  And when we wake up before they do, it is a trick to keep him occupied until they come down for the day.  We are so grateful to have them home again safe!

Grandma has been a special friend for Ezra and a godsend for me in these last few weeks of pregnancy.  Ezra has gotten a little too comfortable with the we-live-next-door-to-a-park bit, and RUNS in that direction at every possible opportunity.  This mama can't run anymore; lame duck waddle probably describes it best.  Grandma has been available and willing for many a park chase in these last few weeks, which has been wonderful.  "Stop" and "wait" don't register very well with the little guy...yet.

The Ezra personality has been asserting itself more lately.  I am impressed with his willingness to try more.  For example, he has less fear and greater confidence on park playground equipment.  A few night's ago we went to a community pool.  He had about 30 seconds of apprehension, and then waded right in.  Dallin helped him "swim" on his tummy, and he kicked his legs and paddled his arms like a champ without any prompting.  At the local splash pad park Ezra screamed and giggled and beamed as he put his whole body in the water.

We also struggle somewhat in knowing how to work with a little boy with a strong personality.  Throwing is his way to act out right now.  Food, toys, clothes, etc. become projectiles when he feels frustrated.  Time outs and talks about other better choices don't seem to be making much of a difference, but we keep trying!

At other times, Ezra is such a tender little spirit!  He often requests "sing songs", which are usually Primary songs.  He will listen carefully to our nightly Book of Mormon reading, often repeating words.  He will help me pray (copying the words I use).  He loves to snuggle, is quick to give hugs and kisses, and will sit quietly through a stack of books.   

Ezra loves nursery, riding in the new van, goldfish snacks, and any toy with wheels.  Seeing a mower, digger, bulldozer, train, or garbage truck is cause for celebration.  His verbal skills are impressive; his desire to communicate is strong.  He remains a truly loyal friend to Bear.                     

Special Visitor # 2

I am feeling pretty spoiled--a second sister came for a week-long visit!  Circumstances were such that the majority of her trip fell under the category of help-older-sister duty. 

Lauren was a much needed aunt in such unappealing tasks as entertaining/chasing down a toddler for nearly an hour at the DMV (it's a long story...)  One morning she took Ezra on a walk outside and fed him lunch when I zonked out on the couch.  She washed lots of dishes and accompanied me on a dozen errands, including spending a whole morning watching Ezra and three other kids while I visited a friend in need.  She even gave me a pedicure (relaxing background music provided, and all!) 

Thanks to her, we were able to give our full attention to our three-hour home inspection (yes, we are finally under contract!), and be understanding when dinner didn't happen until after eight o'clock at night.

We did have a little fun, too.  Ezra will long remember the mango popsicle from Aunt Lauren, which eventually melted into a mushy mess covering his face, neck, both hands, both forearms, and shirt front.  Another evening, we all shared some Blue Bell ice cream; Ezra and Lauren enjoyed theirs in the sun-room.  Now, when dinner is finished, Ezra will ask hopefully for "ice keem"--and then want to eat it in the sun-room.          

A Note for You

Dear Dallin,

Thank you for being my sweetheart.  My days are so much better with you by my side.  Life has been a little harried lately, but what a blessing to know you are always there as helper and friend.  What wonderful things are ahead of us, especially when pursue the course side-by-side, hand-in-hand. 

All my love, Liezel 

We Love Daddy

Fathers and the Priesthood

Each week, I prepare a Sunday School lesson for the young men and women ages 14-15 at my church.  The new youth curriculum (implemented in January) uses a monthly topic, and a weekly question to consider in lesson preparation.  In the month of June, we have been discussing various aspects of priesthood and priesthood keys in my Sunday School class.

With that topic as backdrop, I have approached Father's Day with an entirely new perspective.  I have recognized, more than at any other time, how fathers and priesthood have been beautifully and consistently intertwined in my life.  My dad provided me with one of the greatest gifts: the gift of presiding in our home as a worthy priesthood holder.   

The priesthood is the power and authority of God, given to worthy men to build his kingdom on the earth.  The priesthood authority and power is especially meaningful in the home.  As a Melchizedek priesthood holder, my dad was authorized to give me a name and blessing shortly after I was born.  He baptized and confirmed me a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when I was eight years old.  When the need required, my dad was willing and able to give me a priesthood blessing for healing or comfort.  Before a new school year, my dad always gave us a special blessing to prepare us for the challenge ahead.  When I struck out on my own, and moved to Georgia for my first job out of college, my dad gave me a blessing that proved to be a priceless road-map full of direction and counsel for that unique stage of life.

When I consider the role of my father in the home of my youth, and the priesthood power and authority that he has, words such as safety, consistency, peace, and comfort come to mind.

My life continues to be blessed by Dallin, as the worthy priesthood holder in our new home.  He is my companion and helper as we work together to teach and love one another.  Ezra has begun his life under the same priesthood safety net, and he is enjoying the blessings of an eternal family.  Dallin is providing that needed example of priesthood service for Ezra, and so the legacy continues on, father to son. 

Special Visitor!

My sweet sister favored us with a week-long stay--just because!  Ezra was quite pleased with the extra attention.  Aunt Molly was an immediate hit with the little guy.  He was most anxious to be in her company all the time.  Often his first words in the morning were "Molly wake up?"  He got slightly distressed when she used the bathroom, took a shower, or needed a little alone time.

Molly was ready and willing to read a bucketful of stories (numerous times) and take Ezra on extra walks outside.  Not to mention her cool noises, contagious laugh, and winning smile; what a perfect aunt! 

Despite the blistering heat, our little threesome enjoyed a library visit, a tour of the local duck pond, neighborhood walks, and a trip to the city zoo.

Molly was a gem at filling in at home too: helping with dinner prep, cleaning the kitchen, and starting laundry loads.       

Over the weekend, Dallin joined us for an evening walk through downtown Golden.  The temperature was perfect, the walk along the creek perfectly relaxing.  We happened upon a local park and Ezra got time on swings and stairs and left quite content. 

Our evening was complete with some frozen yogurt (which we ate while being serenaded by the shop owner via penny-whistle).  Ezra tried the surprisingly sour watermelon and blueberry frozen yogurt and gave a classic full face pucker; it was precious.

The next morning we visited the botanic garden downtown.  Currently, the garden is featuring a dozen or more sculptures by local artists.  The lilac/peony/iris garden was ablaze with color and fragrance.  Ezra thrilled every time we found any kind of water body.  We tried for another circle gate family picture, but Ezra was all wiggles.  He did sit very still, though, for some shared paninis from the garden cafe.     

Now, several days post-Aunt-Molly visit, Ezra still goes into the little room set up for her and sits on the bed.  "Molly bye-bye.  Molly home," he says wistfully.  Come back and visit anytime!  We love you!

Memorial Day

We hosted a little BBQ for the holiday and enjoyed lovely weather, terrific food (leave it to Mara to wow the taste buds!), and time to relax with family and friends.  Pictures of our afternoon: 

 

Ezra having a turn on the much-coveted bike (our only cousin squabble was over sharing the bike)

Troy and Teancum

Warren and Quinn

The perpetually smiley Gabriel

Tanya and Warren

Kick dirt, throw dirt, eat dirt...you know, the usual!

Teancum

Dallin and Troy and backyard soccer

Mara and Gabriel (notice the evidence of dirt eating!)

Dallin and Alissa

Preserving History

For Mother's Day I requested a do-it-yourself family picture shoot.  We have not taken many family portraits, and it seemed a good time to preserve our history.  We took our camera and an old tripod and made our way to the nearby park.

Ezra is a toddler--and a busy one at that--and was much more interested in going down the slide then sitting still for pictures.  But, my goal was to preserve our history, and a stage of life, and the reality is--he is constantly on the go, and happiest at play.  So, for what they are worth, we caught pictures of an active Ezra in true form.

We did get a few couple pictures, and managed ONE family picture.  Considering that our picture-taking involved setting up a camera, initiating a timer, running into place, wrangling a toddler to (at least) look at the camera, and perhaps even smile, ONE good family picture is quite a triumph.

 

 

        

Current Doings

Last Tuesday I had a chance to teach a Relief Society class on a gardening topic of my choice.  I put together a 45-minute Power Point presentation on the topic "Four Seasons in a Colorado Garden".  (Yes, I get excited about plants!!)  We discussed each season's best 15 or so Colorado plants (or at least my personal picks), with some design ideas and maintenance tips thrown in for good measure.  About fourteen people attended and most of my students were busily note-taking and asking questions through the entire thing.  A success!  Teaching said classes always gets me really itchy for my own bit of earth, but all in good time.

Speaking of bits of earth, I do have a yard-on-loan currently, and it is getting to be the time when I can plant again.  (May 15 is the potential last frost day here...statistically speaking).  Several weeks ago, I cleared out the weeds and pruned back some winter-kill parts on the perennials and herbs.  With any luck, in the next few weeks, the front yard here will be getting a small make-over.  More updates on that to come!

For the last week or more, my little occupant has been practicing her kick-boxing skills--at 3 a.m.  I tend to be a deep sleeper, but sleep goes out the window when I being pummeled from the inside! 

My sweetheart and I enjoyed a wonderful treat this past weekend.  We coordinated with a cute one-baby couple in our ward for a temple-trip babysitting swap.  They were were kind enough to let us go first, and we enjoyed going to a session together.  Our usual procedure is to take a family temple trip and swap Ezra-watching in the annex, which has worked very well, but it is so nice to be together in the temple.  (As an aside, our frequent family temple trips have taught Ezra to love the temple grounds.  He has become very familiar with "Moni" (the angel Moroni) who lives at the temple).

We are in a holding pattern in regards to our home search.  Patience is the name of this game.  The house we found is a perfect little starter home in a wonderful area, and it has everything that at this stage of life is really important for us: three bedrooms together, a family room (for toys) separate from a living room (for guests), a little yard for my green thumb activities, and storage space.  And, as an added bonus, it is cute!  The house is in short sale, and for better or for worse, it is in that awkward state known as "pending".  Our prayers have been very open-ended in regards to our ultimate landing spot; we pray that we will be where we are needed, and in the right place at the right time, and that things will be according to the will of Heavenly Father.  Time and experience has shown over and over to me that things work best when I am submissive and malleable to my Heavenly Father's wisdom and understanding.  We are trying to strike the balance between being anxiously engaged in the process while not counseling an all-knowing God.

Pretty Girl

Yesterday I had my second ultrasound to double-check baby's kidneys.  Good news: all is well!  We have offered many, many prayers in her behalf!  She is normal in every way.  We got a classic profile view of her--as an added bonus.  While the ultrasound technician hovered in the profile position, baby let out a big yawn and then smacked her lips and wiggled her tongue.  It was very cute.  She has the very same little pug nose as Ezra.  Hello pretty girl!

I am six months pregnant now, and most definitely looking the part.  At church last Sunday, I got a silent chuckle a dozen times over as women in the ward made eye contact, and then noticed my newly protruding tummy.  No one said anything, but it wasn't too hard to guess their thoughts.  Random children at the park are much more precocious.  I have gotten a number of wide-eyed queries from those in the under-ten category.

Ezra continues to respond to talk of the soon-to-arrive baby.  He has started adopting any small, soft cuddly object as his "baby", including a fuzzy fleece blanket that he folds and tucks up under his arm.  Sometimes he will rub my tummy and say affectionately, "Baby GIRL."  (He has figured out that he is a boy, and baby is a girl).  Last week we went to a kid's consignment sale and I got a dozen or so clothes items for baby.  Ezra was fascinated; he carried the little outfits around as if he were holding the real baby.  I am not sure how his impressions and feelings will change when she actually arrives, but for right now he seems to be romanticizing the idea of the baby.    

Happy Birthday Dallin!

 Comfort food...

 birthday surprises...

and pumpkin pie...I think it was a good one!

Lots of love, Liezel

New Favorite Thing

Dallin (lover of kitchen gadgets) received a Microplane Zester for Christmas.  I love recipes that include fresh citrus, and I use his tool often.  Before just a few months ago, I was using a duller-than-dull cheese grater for my zesting--with mixed results and battle wounded fingers/knuckles.  I am currently in love with this new kitchen toy.  Lemon and lime zesting is pure aromatherapy for my senses.  If only I were Jane and could have a lime tree in my backyard, hmmm....

Dear Inventor of Microplane Zester,

All I can say is: Genius!

Sincerely yours,
Liezel  

Baby Girl!

In case you missed the news, my little occupant is a girl!  The 20-week (half-way done!) ultrasound was yesterday.  I had no inkling whatsoever about the sex of the baby, but Dallin was firmly convinced it was a girl--and he was right!  She is growing like a champ, and every thing is perfect except for one small it-might-be-nothing-but-we-will-double-check-anyway issue with her kidneys.  Apparently, her kidneys are larger than they should be, but my doctor reassured me at least three times that it is common, and an isolated issue, and will likely resolve itself.  I am scheduled to have a re-check ultrasound in a month to look at her kidneys again.

During the entire ultrasound baby was head down, feet straight up in the air, face down.  She was not to be disturbed, and never changed position!  So, we have some really nice ultrasound photos of her spine and the back of her head (he he).  Sorry, no classic profile pictures to share...maybe next month we will get lucky.

This whole pregnancy thing is feeling more real now that I know baby is a girl.  I have lots to daydream about...

Zoo!

Ezra is in love with animals.  He takes a particular fancy in lions, owls, and giraffes.  We look at animal books constantly.  He is quick to point out the obscure animal in the corner of the illustration that has nothing to do with the plot line--like the mouse under the chair or the butterfly on the leaf.  Husband and I recently decided to nurture his fancy and get a zoo membership.  We are currently quite close to downtown; I can get from the house to the front door of the zoo in an easy 25 minutes.  Today the weather was perfect, so we took our first adventure.

As we prepared to leave for the zoo this morning, Ezra was excitedly calling out (repeatedly) "an-mul" (animal), "zoo", and then proceeded to rattle off as many animals as he could think of:
 "Zebra?"
"Yes, we will see zebras."
"Lion?"
"Yes, lions live at the zoo, too."
"Bear?"
"Bears, yes, we will see bears."
"Jaff?"
"Yes, many giraffes live at the zoo."

(You get the idea.)  Ezra included dinosaur in that list, as well.

The little guy could hardly contain himself.  When we arrived, he shrieked with joy.

The lion display sits just inside the front entrance, and, lucky for us, the two lion cubs were up and active.  A solid piece of display glass was all that separated us and the noses of the lions.  Ezra was happy as a clam.

We also saw our zebras, bears, and giraffes--along with a whole bucket of others common and those more obscure.  Ezra giggled at a pair of honky geese, tried to mimic some monkey calls, growled at the cheetah, and had compassion for all the sleepy animals.  "Ni-night,"  he cooed to the daddy lions who were always sleeping.

We ate lunch by the train station, and Ezra thrilled every time the familiar "choo-chooooo" call came circling around again.  Five minutes into our return trip Ezra conked out, very content.

One-Man Band

Ezra is one lucky kid. 

His daddy has turned into a singin', dancin' fool lately.  We enjoy his highly entertaining, completely random and spontaneous concerts after good dinners.  And now that I am cooking again, husband is fat (ish...) and happy, and he has music to share, folks!  Sometimes daddy is an opera star full of vibrato and passion, other times life is his musical and he gives musical expression to his kitchen cleaning activities.  Sometimes, backwoods country hoedown comes toe-tapping right through the kitchen.  Sometimes, he is all about rhythm, the "um-chick-a-um" revebrating from any available body part.  I am just as fascinated by it as Ezra.  I can't figure how or where the sudden inspiration comes from, but I love it.  Ezra probably believes that every kid gets serenaded by their daddy after dinner.  At any rate, husband keeps it lively around here with his one-man band.

(And, no I don't have any video evidence.  It's rude to get up during a concert, after all.  Trust me, it happens.)      

More Words, Please

For better or for worse, Ezra has learned that dreaded two-letter toddler favorite..."no!"  After his bath yesterday he was giggling wildly and repeating over and over "oh no! (giggle) "no, no!" (giggle) "no! oh no!"  I have done my best to not use that word, and instead re-direct his attention with a positive word instead, but he learned it, in spite of my efforts!

We have also been practicing "please" and "thank you"--aided by a great series of board books specifically designed to teach manners (Penguin Says Please, Mouse Says Sorry, Polar Bear Says Thank You, etc).  He seems to understand the context of both please and thank you.  For example, during a recent visit to the library, the librarian gave Ezra a stamp on his hand.  I prompted him to say thank you, and he did!  He version sounds like "dink you".  The word please has made quite an impression, and he uses it often without any prompting.  For example, he may ask for something by saying "more" (more books, more songs, more strawberries...) and if that doesn't work, he will look at me earnestly and say "please" (his version sounds like "pease".)  It completely melts my softie heart.  Who could help but respond?  And so we read five more books and sing ten more songs.

Ezra and I have conversations about the baby in my tummy.  He is very keen to the baby now.  If I rub my tummy, even just a little, he calls out, "Baby, baby!"  Lately, he wants to read books that highlight babies, so we have been reading a lot of Peter and the Troll Baby, The Rainbabies, and Freckleface Strawberry.

Speaking of baby, last week I started feeling flutters of baby movement.  This week I am getting full-on karate kicks, usually on my left side.  For such a little person (about 5 ounces) I am impressed by the strength behind the kicking!  Hello future soccer player!  And, in other good news, I am finally coming out from under the nausea cloud.  I have mostly good days now, aside from being constantly hungry and sleepy.  Hoorah!          

Solo Flight

Last month my sister Lauren left for a teach-English program in Ukraine.  Yesterday, my sister Kristen left for her own teach-English program in China.  I couldn't be prouder of them.  Their solo flight adventuring will be so enriching for them both.  The program requires that they jump into a classroom with little (if any!) formal training and prepare daily English-language lesson plans for elementary-age children five days a week.  It is a culture shock and steep-learning curve, but somehow it is done--with a lot of soul-searching and earnest preparation, no doubt. 

My own solo flight, though considerably more tame, made me the person that I am.  There is something about being out on your own that finishes off the training of good parents.  My maturity in all aspects improved after I had time to learn, make mistakes, and experience more of the world by myself.

I see the wisdom in our Heavenly Father's plan to allow us to leave the pre-mortal life for an earth life experience.  Life on earth is all about growing, learning, teaching, and choosing the good part.  Agency is an incredible gift!  I know that I had opportunity to grow and develop in the pre-mortal life, but earth life is like the solo flight--the expanded opportunity to prove ourselves.

The genius of the Father's plan is that despite our needful solo flight on earth, we are never left completely alone.  Even as we struggle to learn and improve, we have access to prayer, inspiration from the Holy Ghost, priesthood blessings, the words of the scriptures and living prophets, and the power of the Atonement.  As we use our agency to access these divine gifts, our opportunities for suceess on earth are maximized.             

Snow Day

We got a healthy snowfall last night, which created a nice diversion for Ezra and me from the normal daily activities.  All bundled up from head to toe, we ventured out for awhile.  My little guy was up to his knees in snow!  I tried to make a snowman, but Ezra destructed as fast as I could construct.  I gave him rides on the snow shovel (no sleds to be found here).  We made snow angels and tried to eat snowflakes.  It was a nice way to spend a morning.  And, as an added bonus, I wore Ezra out.  He usually kicks and babbles in his crib for half an hour before actually taking his nap.  Today, he was out in about three minutes.   

Look Upward

A number of years ago, when I was a college student, I had a summer internship in another state.  I packed light, but somehow an obscure collection of hymns on cassette tape ended up in my car; I listened to it often.  One of the selections on that tape was a hymn I had, previous to that point, never heard of--"Does the Journey Seem Long?"  Soon, I had memorized all the verses to that particular hymn. 

One evening, I returned to the intern housing quite late.  My thoughts were particularly gloomy, and I had given in to self-pity over my situation.  I was missing home and family, and wishing for different circumstances.  Feeling heavy and sad, I walked the distance from my car, up the hill to the apartment.  As I walked, gently, but perfectly clearly, the words from the third verse of the hymn "Does the Journey Seem Long?" came to my mind: 

Let your heart be not faint
Now the journey's begun;
There is One who still beckons to you.
So look upward in joy
And take hold of his hand;
He will lead you to heights that are new

As I walked I did look up, literally.  The night sky in that rural setting was all aglow with twinkling stars that seemed especially bright.  I felt in my heart that I was not alone or forgotten.  The message of the hymn provided great comfort, and in that quiet moment I could feel the love of my Father in Heaven. 

The Holy Ghost brings truth to our minds in powerful ways.  I humbly acknowledge how this truth, then and now, gives me courage to press forward.  The Savior Jesus Christ offers us the gift of His Atonement.  All that is unfair about life is made right through His Atonement.  The Atonement is the balm for all hurts, pains, disappointments, and regrets.  It enables us to do hard things.  It lifts, encourages, and heals.     

All Better!

Ezra is feeling better!  Hip hip hooray!

He is also adding new words at a rapid rate!  I am impressed with his verbal skills, which have really escalated in the past month.  His new favorite thing is to imitate my words.  Ezra has his own version of dozens of words that are common in his little world (shoes, bowl, shirt, book, cheese, lion, owl, dog, bath, bubbles, diaper, play, park, snack, juice, noodle, eggs...etc.)  He also makes a good attempt at his own name, which comes out sounding something like "E-rah". 

Quiet Life

Ezra and I have been pretty hobbit-ish of late.  In an effort to keep our germs to ourselves, and not get exposed to anything new, we stay home most days.  Books are our chief entertainment, and I am so grateful Ezra has an insatiable appetite for reading.  The little guy has interesting taste for a 16-month old.  His two favorites are The Pout-Pout Fish and Weslandia.  
 The latter is a picture book meant for probably third or fourth graders and tells the tale of Wesley, a nerdy, creative genius who determines to cultivate his own staple crop and establish his own civilization as a summer enrichment project.  I have to wonder what Ezra is soaking up for future reference.  He does love to play in the dirt... 

p.s.--Wikipedia encyclopedia entry describes some of the author's deeper social critiques underlying the basic plot.  Interested readers? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weslandia

Learning to See

My youth Sunday School lesson for this coming Sunday addresses the question, "How can I learn to see Heavenly Father's hand in all things?"  It has been an interesting thing to consider.  As I reflect on past experiences I can cite dozens of examples of seeing Heavenly Father work in my life; I certainly have a testimony that He is most intimately aware of me.  Considering that question this week has been a blessing, and a needed shift in perspective.

After a nasty weekend of sickness, and a Monday morning doctor visit, Ezra got his diagnosis: bronchitis and an ear infection in both ears.  He (we) have been pretty miserable.  He hasn't eaten much of anything since Saturday.  Keeping fluids in him is a challenge.  He sleeps lousy, and everything hurts.  Administering his medicine(s) is painful.  He needs breathing treatments via a nebulizer multiple times a day.  It all adds up to no fun.

And then, I learn (and it's still in progress!) to see Heavenly Father's hand in all things.  I see, for example, how my health has made small improvements, such that I actually have mental and emotional energy to care for a sick boy.  I am still throwing up, but it is usually after Ezra has gone to bed, and I see how timing has been a blessing.  I see how my prayers were answered in getting a doctor's appointment at our very popular/very busy pediatrician's office with our doctor, early on the day we needed it.  I see prayers answered that Ezra will just sleep through the night, or that he will drink his juice.  I see the blessing of good medical insurance.  I see the blessing of Bear, Ezra's comfort item, who has been a great help this last week.  I see the gift of priesthood blessings.

As an additional bonus blessing, our little orchid is blooming and giving its sweet fragrance this week.  There are three perfect blooms, and I smile to think of Heavenly Father's hand quietly working to bring a little extra cheer to each member of our family.     

And, my other news...

Yesterday, a doctor visit confirmed that I am pregnant!  I was making a very similar post almost two years ago, which means that new baby will be almost exactly two years younger than Ezra.  My due date is August 2.

The other story of my lack of blog posts is the result of first trimester nausea in the extreme.  It hit me in the face in early December much more intensely than with Ezra.  I was pretty low-functioning for the greater part of December.  Just before our trip to Utah for Christmas, I ended up in the ER on account of my inability to keep anything in, even water, for a three day period.  It was a struggle to just breathe in and out for a time, but enough of that.

The good news is, Thanksgiving was early, so I was done with all my Christmas shopping before December even started.  I had a few good days early in the month for some small outings, including helping at Teancum's birthday party.  Dallin is an angel.  Seriously, I can't do this without an angel husband, and I have one of the best.  He was mom and dad, baby entertainer, and had cook-and-clean-up duty for most of the month.  The other huge blessing was going to Utah at the peak of the yuckies.  My mom took care of me and my family.  They actually had regular, good-tasting meals, and entertainment!  What a blessing!

This little baby has some serious tenacity and staying power considering all we have been through!  Doctor says all is well and growth is on-track.  It is exciting and difficult all at the same time, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel!

In Review

A whole month has gone by since that last post!  Eek!  I am playing catch-up for the month of December and Christmas, which is a very sad way to document one of the best times of the year, but it is what it is.

In early December we set up Christmas lights inside and out of the house and Ezra was entranced.  The entire cul-de-sac also had outdoor lights.  The best displays on the street were done by our two closest neighbors, so Ezra had great eye candy out the front windows at night.

Most of the time Ezra just admired the tree...

...until he discovered that pretty lights are good for wearing!

Dowtown Golden hosts a "Candlelight Christmas" every year, a free event featuring candlelight caroling down Main Street, a terrific lights display, performing groups, and hot cider.  We braved the crowds and really enjoyed ourselves.

 As members of the Denver Botanic Garden, we also got free tickets to the "Blossoms of Light" garden lights display, boasting over a million lights.  There were a number of strategically located mistletoe balls for kissing opportunities; we took advantage of at least four such opportunities!

After a couple one-two punch rounds of the sickies, we pulled ourselves together in late December and flew to Salt Lake City for a much anticipated vacation with my family.

The traditional Christmas Eve sibling/spouse/friend couch picture.

Cute parents, and patient hosts of eleven busy (needy) people, including two full-of-energy toddlers.

Cousins dressed up in Christmas Sunday best (clothes from Grandma).  Fruit snacks kept them still.

On Christmas Day we all bundled up, and went out to play in the snow for awhile.

Bear Gymnastics

Ezra and Bear are preparing for their forthcoming circus performance.  Ezra is the hard-nosed task master, Bear the agile performer.  Gymnastic practice sessions have been a regular occurrence at our house of late.  Ezra tells me that Bear has greatly improved his front flip; back flip still needs some more work.

p.s.--I usually post all of our videos to this site: http://www.youtube.com/user/phatfiddle.  This particular video was especially cute, so I included it on the blog as well. 

Touchy-Feely in the Garden

We make good use of our botanic garden membership.  I am one of those strange people who thinks the garden is beautiful even in December.  Ezra and I made a visit today and were two of the ten (or less) patrons in the entire place.  I let the little guy walk the whole garden, and we took a rather serpentine route with Ezra in the lead.  We had quite the sensory experience, touching any interesting looking plant, rock, or structure within reach.  We found (among others) rosemary, sage, lavender, thyme, and about six different grass seed heads good for tickling noses.  In the tropical conservatory he made contact with about twenty genera of plants and was fascinated by the poison dart frogs in the display case.

Bear was also along for the adventure; the two of them are inseparable lately.  I think Bear enjoyed his day too, though he was dropped half a dozen times and came home with a dirty nose.

Ezra was rather giddy at the garden with all the freedom and options for exploring--not to mention the joy of being outside for more than an hour.  His new word is "happy" and his rosy cheeks and toothy grin were all happiness today.   

More Books

Ezra's top five activities include being outside, reading books, exploring/learning, playing with bear, and playing with mom and/or dad.  This list can be interchanged, but generally it follows this order.

Ezra is more likely to wander around the grassy field at the park looking for pine cones and "fluffies" (dandelion seed heads) rather than play on the playground equipment.  Ezra is more likely to empty the kitchen utensil drawer and explore its contents than empty his toy bucket.  Ezra is more likely to read a book than play with trucks.

His fascination with books has been apparent for awhile.  We go to the library often and check out between 15-20 books per visit.  We are likely to read about eight a day, often the same three books six times over again.  His favorite two words come in handy with this favorite activity: "more" (as in "more books") and "up" (as in "pick me up, Mom, so we can read").  Lately, his favorite type of book is the picture/concept book (A, B, C's or 1, 2, 3's or colors).  He likes to play a Q&A game with me based on the pictures.  For example, we look at a page with a red tulip, a yellow banana, a green ball, a blue car, etc. and I ask, "Where's the ________?"  He loves it; I guess he gets a sense of satisfaction even at this young age in feeling informed and prepared with a right answer.

I enjoy reading most any book to Ezra, but after checking out easily 200+ books in the last six or seven months, I definitely have some "mommy favorites".

I have several in the "clever" category.  These books do not necessarily have great story lines or memorable characters, but they do use a completely new twist to explore a common idea.  For example, Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal uses a lively interchange over cloud shapes and explores two equally valid perceptions.  Orange Pear Apple Pear by Emily Gravett has darling illustrations and a five word text (!) combined into witty combinations.

Owen by Kevin Henkes is a little mouse boy with a well-loved blanket (something tells me this dad had a little one with a similar story!)  I love the tone; it is so connected to the emotional attachment with a snuggly thing.  Neville by Norton Juster is a story of a boy who moves to a new place and doesn't like it...never heard that one before, right?  But, it has such a pleasant, wholly unexpected resolution.  It made me smile, and I think it sends a very positive message about using initiative to solve your own problems.  Here's another commonly heard story, with a happy surprise ending:  Wolf! Wolf! by John Rocco is a clever Aesop's Fable adaption.

Happy Reading!

Thanksgiving!

We hosted Thanksgiving for ten people and it went wonderfully well!  I had fun decorating the table with Mama Bear's pretty special occasion tableware, plus some Liezel creative touches.  My sweetheart and I decided to brine our turkey (a 25 lb. bird) using this Food Network recipe: Alton Brown Good Eats Roast Turkey; it was perfect.

We contributed other traditional hot foods (mashed potatoes and gravy, rolls, stuffing), but our guests made the dinner exceptionally good.  Tanya brought a delectable traditional Ukrainian holiday vegetable side dish.  Mara wowed us all with special corn bread muffins, jello salad, Medjool date-bacon-and-ricotta-cheese wraps and two amazing desserts.  There was a lot of umming at our table.

We broke with tradition (slightly) and used green pumpkin seeds as our "kernels" for counting our blessings.  I reviewed my journal a few days before Thanksgiving, and (wow!) it has been an incredible year.  Picking just three kernels to mention at our Thanksgiving table was difficult.  Among a great many things that I am very grateful for this year, I mentioned:

1. Dallin.  My sweetheart, my best friend, my helper, my team-mate (and we make a really good team), and super-dad.  We survived the first year of being parents (together).  We moved again and survived that transition (together).  We made a whole new year of memories and adventuring (together).  I would be a mess without Dallin and all his help and great love.
2. Ezra.  My little sweetie boy is my sunshine during the day and is most excellent company.  Being a mom is not for the faint of heart, and it has not been easy, but I don't know what I would do without my little Ezra.  He is clever and cute and soooo fun.
3. Roslyn and John.  I am so grateful they are having a wonderful time in China.  I am so grateful they are serving a mission and seeing a whole new world.  I am so grateful they have this opportunity.  I am so grateful they are in good health.  I am so grateful for their immense generosity in letting us live in their house.                  

Oh, and another great perk of our Thanksgiving was seeing the cousins together (after an almost 3-month gap).  Happy, busy boys!  

Indeed!

Political cartoon clipped from The Economist, November 3, 2012, p.8

Growing Up

Yesterday Ezra and I went to the children's garden at our local botanic garden.  They have a nice set-up with paved walking paths, boardwalks, small drawbridges, activity centers, exploring zones, and interesting plant material.
There were about twenty other kids around, so like a good protective mommy of my little tike, I tried to take Ezra's hand and guide him safely to the boardwalk.  He would have none of that; big boys don't need to hold mom's hand.  I think I looked very much like first-time mom hovering nearby, cautious and perhaps a bit too apprehensive.  All the other moms seemed to have this relaxed, healthy-distance-casual-observance stance.  I suppose I am still adjusting to my little guy becoming not so little.  He is a confident walker, and craves his independence, so I am coming to terms with backing off a little.  I have the feeling this will be a continual readjustment; the balance between protecting Ezra and giving him the opportunity to grow and stretch.

This is me trying really hard not to be an overprotective helicopter mom.

Called to Serve

Last Sunday I was set apart as a Sunday School teacher for the youth ages 14-15.  I have never had a calling with the youth, but I am so excited for the opportunity!  Starting in January, the curriculum for the youth will be completely new.  The curriculum is called "Come, Follow Me", and is modeled after the way the Savior taught.  There is no prescribed lesson manual, there is, instead, topics for discussion, and doctrinal questions arranged into monthly units.  The teacher must now rely much more on the Spirit.  The youth are invited to participate and help teach and bear testimony.  From my observations, this new youth curriculum is to the youth of the church as Preach My Gospel is to missionary work.  Simply put--the Spirit is the key.  My lesson preparations must allow for teacher-student conversations that allow the Spirit to teach.  It is a humbling mandate, but such a thrilling challenge!

This short video introduces the new curriculum to newly called teachers.  I get teary-eyed every time I watch it.  My goal is to help the youth become converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

 

Precious Doctrine

Yesterday morning I had a discussion with two gentleman of another Christian faith that focused mostly on the nature of the Godhead.  While we both shared a belief in the Bible, I recognized how much precious knowledge they lacked because of errors or deletions in the translation of that book of scripture.  I feel so much gratitude for the understanding that I have of such a simple and fundamental gospel doctrine.  I feel so much gratitude for the Bible and The Book of Mormon.  I feel so much gratitude for Biblical Prophets and living Prophets in our day.  These additional sources of inspiration found in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints give me clarity of understanding in the true nature of the Godhead.

During our conversation these obviously devoted, God-fearing men were puzzled when I used the word "Savior."  They did not understand the meaning of the word or understand to whom I was referring.  When I use the word Savior, I am referring to Jesus Christ, who is, our Savior and Redeemer from death and hell.  His infinite Atonement offers salvation to all men, women, and children who have ever lived on the earth.  Truly, there is no other way to overcome the effects of sin and return to presence of our Father in Heaven except through "the merits, and mercy and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life" (2 Nephi 2:8).

God the Father, is the Father of my spirit, and so I am, quite literally, a child of God.  He is a perfect, loving, forgiving, merciful Father who hears and answers my prayers.  I pray to my Father in Heaven, in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and I know I am heard.  The Father and the Son are separate, distinct beings with bodies of flesh and bones, as tangible as my own.  And yet, they are completely unified in purpose; their collective work and glory is the immortality and eternal life of all their children.  They are resurrected, glorified beings who delight in honoring their children for their obedience.      

The Holy Ghost, the third member of the Godhead, is a personage of Spirit.  The Holy Ghost witnesses of the Father and the Son, testifying, in a still, small voice to the heart of any earnest seeker of truth.  The Holy Ghost can teach, bring to remembrance, warn, comfort, and strengthen.  Those who receive the gift of Holy Ghost following baptism by the laying on of hands, are entitled to the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost according to their faithfulness. 

These simple truths are precious to me.  I feel confidence in my purpose here on the earth, knowing that I am a child of God who can pray.  I feel immense comfort knowing that because of Jesus Christ and His Atonement, my sins can be forgiven, my weaknesses can be made strong, and all unfairness in life can be made right.  I feel gratitude for the reassuring voice of the Spirit helping me to keep the faith and recognize truth. 

When I Least Expected It

I was asked to be on our church's Halloween trunk-or-treat committee, and preparations for the party have hijacked my week.  The party is tomorrow--thankfully, and it should be nippy, but fun for all.  We have six different kid activities planned, a smorgasbord of homemade goodies, plus trunk-or-treating.

At the last minute, I was tasked with creating nine Halloween-themed table centerpieces with a budget of $15 (spending less than that was also desirable).  Thanks to a magazine idea and some frugal creativity I did it for $11.68.  Not bad says I, not bad.

Earlier in the week, I was out hunting for 40 tiny pumpkins for the decorate-your-own-pumpkin activity.  I discovered a pumpkin patch not far from home and found exactly what I needed.  The pumpkin patch manager and I were chatting a little, and he asked my son's name.  When I replied, he was quiet for a moment, and then responded, "The only other Ezra I have ever known was the Secretary of Agriculture when I was kid, and his name was Ezra Taft Benson."   

Hah!  What are the chances!  Hello open door!  So, I walked in and we had a brief, but concentrated talk about what Ezra Taft Benson did later in life; namely, as a servant of God and the Prophet and President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  I was hunting pumpkins and had a gospel discussion--what a good day!  Three cheers for being a committee member!    

Tomato Bumper Crop?

If you have an abundance of tomatoes, like we did, and have already shared with all the neighbors on more than one occasion, and still don't know how to use all your tomatoes, perhaps you might try this bruschetta recipe.  (I used all garden tomatoes rather than the fancy red and yellow type that the recipe recommends.)

My sister turned me on to bruschetta and it is party-in-your-mouth delicious.  We had bruschetta on toasted baguette and Italian meatballs for dinner recently and it was quite delectable.   

Fall Leaves and Other Discoveries

Our warm-season summer vegetable crops have perished.  There are still warm days yet, so I cleaned out the garden beds and planted a few fall crops (Swiss chard, beets, snow peas, and some pansies for color).  They are doing remarkably well, despite the occasional frosty morning.  Thankfully, our plethora of sunny days quickly perk them up again.
When I work outside, I often give Ezra a spoon so he can play in the dirt too.  Now that all the big summer vegetable crops are gone, his quantity of accessible dirt has doubled, which, of course, he wants to eat.  This is his adorable, slightly mischievous, "I probably shouldn't have done that, but I'm so glad I tried it!" look.  What a sweetie boy; he makes me laugh.

 The Ash trees were among the first in our area to change color and drop their leaves.  Ezra was most intrigued with the crunchy piles of yellow leaves at the park near the house.  He loved grabbing a fistful and flinging them in the air.  At thirteen months, everything is fascinating and everything needs to be explored.  The pea gravel base at the playground is fascinating.  Flowers are fascinating.  Animals are fascinating.  Flying birds are fascinating.  The flight-for-life orange and red helicopter is especially fascinating.  And the lawnmower is an obsession.  We have to touch the lawnmower every time we go outside.  The vacuum cleaner and the hair dryer need to be examined on a regular basis too.    

 

 Ezra says hello and goodbye to everyone, random passerby, grocery store check-out lady, children playing at the other end of the block.  He is fascinated with people, though, usually only at a comfortable distance.  Ezra's latest trick is identifying his "tummy" with affectionate pats.  He will now say "na-na" for banana, which he often eats at breakfast.  "Out" is a favorite word (as in get-me-out-of-this-crib/highchair/carseat), but his version of "out" sounds more like angst-y vowels with marbles in the mouth.  I get it, though.

He is a joy!  A happy, curious, intentional learner, who is truly in love with life.  Oh, and very ticklish, especially on his feet--just like daddy.

Hastening

As always, General Conference weekend was a bit of heaven.  I was just back from my trip to Salt Lake City and enjoyed all the watching via comfy couch next to sweet husband.  Ezra's nap schedule allowed us to fully enjoy the morning sessions while he slept.  Ezra was fascinated by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (who wouldn't be!?), and recognized President Thomas S. Monson's face!  (We had talked about him, and looked at his picture half a dozen times.)  When President Monson spoke Ezra got excited, pointed and called to him.  Very cute.

It takes me some time to process all the doctrine-dense content, but as a cursory comment, I am so impressed by the active, vibrant, forward-motion of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  During the Saturday morning session, President Monson announced (optional) changes to the minimum missionary age for elders and sisters.  In the press conference between Saturday sessions to further discuss the new missionary-age announcement, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland commented on the "hastening" and "accelerating" work in the kingdom.  A completely new youth curriculum, which will take effect in January 2013, was also announced.  The new curriculum for youth focuses more intensely on core doctrines of the church, emphasizes spiritual self-reliance, and active gospel learning.

It is an exciting time to be a parent in the church!  I see so much effort on the part of the church to safeguard, prepare, and teach the rising generation.  I acknowledge that the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve, who have been called as prophets, seers, and revelators, can see and understand so much more than I can.  I am so grateful for their foresight to both invite younger men and women to serve missions, and, at the same time, prepare them with pure doctrine more earnestly.

It is also a humbling time to be a parent in the church!  As the work accelerates and hastens, as temptation is more pernicious and prevalent, so the teaching in the home must be all the more focused and consistent.  I have been impressed lately, that there must be teaching for understanding; teaching that touches the heart, and brings conversion.  The influence of the Holy Ghost is vital in this kind of teaching!  Teaching for understanding means that children act for themselves, respond to invitations to know for themselves, and have personal experience with gospel principles.

I am inspired by this thought from Elder Neil L. Andersen:

In our world today, each child, each young man and young woman needs his or her own conversion to the truth. Each needs his or her own light, his or her own “steadfast and immovable”  faith in the Lord Jesus Christ independent of parents, youth leaders, and supportive friends.

The stories of Jesus can be like a rushing wind across the embers of faith in the hearts of our children. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”  The stories of Jesus shared over and over bring faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and strength to the foundation of testimony. Can you think of a more valuable gift for our children?     

Tour de Temple Square

Ezra, Grandma, and I visited Temple Square, mostly for the purpose of finding one of my friends, a former roommate and a fellow intern at The Holden Arboretum from 2001.  She is now one of those really special few-and-far-between people who get to be gardeners on Temple Square.  She is on the crew that takes care of the Relief Society Gardens near the Church Office Building.  One of her co-workers helped us locate her; she was in a cherry picker stringing lights in preparation for the Christmas display.  (Yes, they have already started, in fact, they started putting the lights up August 1).  She is just as cheery and happy as ever; so nice to make connections with old friends!

Ezra loved the tour de Temple Square and was probably overstimulated a dozen times over.  There were golf carts, buses, trains, lots of water, fountains, and flowers all colors of the rainbow.  The little guy had plenty to look at and oodles to point at, and I think he wore himself out with all the observing.  He conked out in his car-seat after about 2.5 minutes in the car, slept all the way home, and took a two-hour nap when we got back to Grandma's house.