So Long...

Farewell...



Auf wiedersehen...



Goodbye...



"That's all I have to say about that."
*tear*

Sarah is Sad...

...for two -scratch that- three reasons.
1. Logan hid the computer's wireless mouse and she can't find it anywhere. It took her about 20 minutes to get to her blog to post by using the tab and enter keys.
2. Mat and Dani and James move tomorrow. Her best friends are moving to San Antonio. 20 hours away.
3. Because of reason number 2, she ate half a can of frosting. And now her stomach hurts.
Sarah is sad.

It's My Party And I'll Cry IF I Want To...

But he didn't. He actually had a blast!!!!



And a disclaimer, the top few photos are all pictures from the actual day of his birthday after we got back from our family outing and he got to open his presents from Grandma and Grandpa Thomas and his mommy and daddy. He was just so stinking cute in that crown from Toys-R-Us!!!!

Our day pretty much went as planned. We really just had a good, stress-free time and enjoyed being a family. And Zac said something profound on the way to the petting zoo...he was talking about that question, "Where do you see yourself in five years?" and he said "We will have a SIX-YEAR-OLD!!!" That blew my mind.

So fast-forward to Monday evening...the party. Some of Logan's very best friends came (James, Kanoa, Cousin Adam, Damen, Elizabeth, and David) and got him some sweet presents. He made bank in the ball department...from inflatable to squishy water-retaining ones. He also got a ton of bubbles and bubble accessories which will be a huge hit the rest of the summer, I'm sure. And then the MOTHER of all birthday presents:


It's a push/ride toy that happens to be a Whinnie the Pooh themed FIRE TRUCK!!!! It has a ton of buttons that make all sorts of noise, sing songs, light flashing lights, and does everything your standard fire truck would do. Well, basically. So, if you couldn't tell from the pictures, it was from James' mommy and daddy (Aunt Dani and Uncle Mat). They said it was so he could remember them as being his favorite aunt and uncle when they move to San Antonio...at the end of the week. *sniff* But that's a different post...

Anyways, aside from the presents, what else makes a good birthday party? The cake, of course. Logan got his own (the local grocery store makes a free 1st birthday cake) and, well, there are just no words. The video shows just how hesitant he was at first, but the pictures capture the next half hour after that pretty well!









So after the cake, he took a bath, thanked everyone for coming, and called it a night. Then mommy and daddy got to sneak out and see a movie (Get Smart) while Wonderful Aunt Liz stayed behind to watch him and clean up the kitchen. Love that girl!!!!

So, in summary, first birthdays ROCK!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BABY BOY!!!

Pics from one year ago...



Well, the big day is here! Our little boy is one whole year old!!! It's funny, it seems like it's been such a long time that we've had him in our little family...and he's learned to do so much, so it seems so long in that sense. But at the same time, I can't believe it's only been a year...it seems like just yesterday that I was in the hospital having him!

So, speaking of all that he's learned in the past year: he rolled over (front to back) at three weeks, rolled over back to front at two months, laughed consistently at two months, started blowing bubbles and sitting while propped at three months, started growling and eating "solids" at four months, started drinking from a cup and got his first cold at five months, scooted (EVERYWHERE!) at six months, could sit up and get into sitting position on his own at seven months, learned to pull himself into standing position and cut his first tooth at eight months, learned to clap and mimic "uh-oh" at nine months, learned to crawl at ten months, and started walking behind a push toy or by holding onto mommy or daddy's fingers at eleven months.

And then just in the past month, he has learned to: clap when asked, point, wave bye-bye, climb stairs (up, not down yet!), play peek-a-boo, throw a ball back and forth, open mommy's cell phone and call people, open cupboards in the kitchen, sucker daddy into giving him gummy bears, walk holding onto peoples' pants, open the dvd player, "honk" mommy and daddy's noses, go to sleep without a fight, mimic "thank you," and a ton of other things that continue to amaze us on a daily basis.

So since Logan's best friend James is in Seattle until Monday, we are postponing the birthday party until Monday evening. Which leaves his birthday free for some quality time with his mommy and daddy. YAY! We're planning on going up to Thanksgiving Point to see the farm and go to the petting zoo. After that, we have a trip to Toys-R-Us planned. He's part of the "birthday club," which means he got a gift card and gets a balloon or something when we go to the store. So we'll go check that out and get him his present...not sure what that is yet, though. Then after that, we'll go out to dinner (after all, it's a special day for me, too. I gave birth to a 9 lb 10 oz baby a year ago!!!) and then call it a day. It should be a good one!!!

Pics from yesterday...

Happy Birthday, Hunter!!!!

So the best-12-year-old-brother-in-law-in-the-world's birthday is today! I can't believe he's 12. He's going to be a deacon! I remember back in the day when he was just baptized....ahhh! And even crazier is that he was only SIX (almost 7) when Zac and I started dating!

Oh...and I can't wish Hunt a happy birthday without a shout-out to Grandma Judy. It's her birthday, too! She's gotta be...what...35 or something now?

In other news, I'm done with classes!!! Just two finals tomorrow and I'm free! Then it's Logan's birthday and party, about thirty trips to the airport, and then Logan and I fly home to NY for three weeks!!!! I'm getting pretty excited!!!

Happy Father's Day!!!

Campaign for Real Beauty...

So we talked about body image in my Young Adult Fiction class today and a girl showed this video...and it blew my mind.



it was so crazy. In other news...I had to call poison control the other day.

So Logan was sitting in the living room playing and I was sitting on the couch reading. I looked up to find him sitting among a bunch of little white things that looked like Tic-Tacs. I got down to look at them and it turns out that they were Zac's Zyrtec he takes for his allergies. I don't know why the bottle was on the ground, but it was and Logan got it open (even though it is "child proof." All you have to do is squeeze the sides while you turn it, so if he had it in his mouth and bit down, that's how he got it open). Anyways, his tongue and the sides of his mouth were all white and chalky, so I started counting the pills as I picked them up and put them back into the bottle. I counted 33. The bottle originally had 45, so I called Zac to see how many he'd taken since he bought the bottle a few weeks ago. He wasn't sure but he said more than 10. Well, to be on the safe side, I called poison control.

Operator: Hello, poison control, can I get your name?
Me: Sarah
Operator: What Can I help you with, Sarah?
Me: My son may have eaten some Zyrtec.
Operator: How much does he weigh?
Me: Well, he's almost a year...so about 25 lbs?
Operator: What is the maximum number of pills he could have eaten?
Me: Not more than five.
Operator: Ok...I've got a study here about a little girl about 18 months that ate FIFTY times the amount of recommended dosage. All that happened was that her pupils were really dilated and she slept soundly for about 14 hours. So keep an eye on your son until bedtime, and assuming nothing out of the ordinary happens, you'll probably have a sound sleeper tonight.

So, I've officially joined the "Mom's Club." It's a club you're not a full member of until you've had to call poison control at least once. So, go me!

Today was B-E-A-UTIFUL...

It really was! It was 70 degrees out and was just perfect. So after we got home from the movies, we decided to take a little family drive. We drove the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. And it was gorgeous! So to anyone who feels that Utah is a barren wasteland (which I used to be one of those people), I am fairly certain you have never driven this and therefore need to.

So it took us about an hour and a half total from our apartment and back, but it was gorgeous! The only downside was at the highest point, where the road was really twisty and turny. And I guess that combination with the altitude and facing backwards really didn't agree with Logan because he threw up EVERYWHERE. It almost looked fake because it was so much and it was like...projectile. But we stopped off at a switchback and changed him and everything was fine after that. So, enjoy our pretty pictures!

Mmmm, Cake...

Ladies and Gentlemen, Rachel Winsor is a freaking genius.

So Zac works nights and I usually make dinner for the two of us, take his portion down to him on his break, come home, re-heat my portion, and chow down while I feed Logan his supper. Then I give the baby a bath, put him to bed, and have a little "me time" (reading, watching an episode of Friends, whatever) before I get cracking on my homework. Well, usually while in the midst of "me time," I start wishing I had made some form of dessert. But naturally, my "me time" doesn't have enough minutes to create and bake some wonderful concoction...which probably would end up containing too many calories, anyways.

Tonight was no different. I grilled up some steaks, made a pasta side, sliced up some fresh fruit and delivered Zac's meal. We came home, Logan and I ate, Logan went through the normal bedtime routine, and went to sleep. Then I started in on some Grey's Anatomy catch-up when the dessert craving hit. Almost simultaneously, I remembered that my neighbor, Rachel, had posted about her pregnancy cravings for cake. And this is what she said:

"Single servings of cake.
Its amazing. You put 1/2 cup cake mix and 1/3 cup water in a bowl, stir, and microwave for 90 seconds. And Voila! You have yummy cake. And there is no danger of accidentally eating half a cake. And I'm sure you can say its better for you without the eggs and oil. So you can feel good and healthy about yourself."

HOLY WOW did this rock my world. It's so moist and warm that you totally don't need frosting, nor will you miss it. The only bad thing about it is that I am tempted to go back for seconds. Which defeats the main purpose of a single serving of cake. But I'm still breastfeeding...I can burn off the calories, right? Hmmm...maybe not. Well, enjoy Logan in all his cuteness (yes, he can stand on his own now! But still won't walk...) and go make yourself some cake!!!

Happy "Anniversary!!!"

So five years ago today, Zac and I went on our first date. Can you believe how much has happened in five years? It's crazy!!! But awesome, none the less. So in honor of that wonderful day, I'd like to share the details with those of you who don't already know the story.

Downtown Bloomfield, at the Memorial Day Parade. Sarah sat near the lawn of the Kennedy Funeral Home with her family (puppy included) keeping a lookout for her cousins and secretly hoping to see that stud known as Zac Steele. Sure enough, up came the Boy Scouts marching past Pickle Park and he was right at the front, full uniform and all. Her heart skipped a beat, wondering if she should call out to him, or just wave flirtatiously. She opted for the wave, not wanting to seem too eager. If only he would look her way...then, EYE CONTACT! Her heart pounded as his beautiful blue eyes met hers and she casually waved her fingers and gave him a smile. She enjoyed the rest of the parade, but made sure to keep an eye on him as he neared the end of the parade route at Elton Park. As soon as the BCS marching band passed, Sarah couldn't help but make her way to the food stands as fast as possible, shouting to her parents over her shoulder, "I'll catch up with you guys later!"

She searched, almost frantically, for just a glimpse of that handsome guy. But he was no where to be found. Sarah spotted her cousin and started walking toward her. Her heart started to sink. But then a warm, gentle hand rested on her shoulder. She turned and found herself lost in those beautiful blues almost immediately. "Hi," she said. "You looked great in the parade." He smiled that adorable smile and gave a bashful, "Thanks. You look great, too." EEE!!!! They made small talk for a few minutes, introduced their puppies, Mikko and Jessie, to each other, and then Sarah bit the bullet. She had to cancel their plans for the initial first date a week before hand, but wasn't going to let this one get away. "So did you want to catch that movie today? That is, if you're not too busy..." "No, no, I'd love to. I'll call you with plans later," he said. Sarah couldn't wait!!!

Fast-forward. They decided to catch the 5:00 showing of Bruce Almighty. Sarah gave Zac directions to her house and waited by the door. But when 4:45 hit, she didn't know what to think. "Where is he?" Just then, Zac's brother im-ed her. Apparently, Zac was lost. Naturally, Sarah told him to turn left which took him down Stetson RD, not a right which would have taken him down Wesley. Stupid, stupid, STUPID! So Sarah got Zac's mom's cell number (which Zac had), got him straightened out, and jumped into his van the second he pulled into the driveway. He looked so handsome! Khaki pants, nice white button-down shirt, gelled, spiky hair...Mmmm.

They talked the entire way to the theater. When they realized how late Sarah had made them, they decided to head to Target and get snacks while they waited for the 7:00 show. It was no problem because those two could talk to each other for hours and never run out of things to say. So eventually, the theater opened seating for the next showing. They got front row balcony seats, a favorite for both of them. Just as they settled in and began snacking on their gummy bears, Zac started to look sick. "What's wrong?" Sarah asked and Zac nodded toward the door. About a thousand people came in and said "Hey Zac!" and proceeded up the stairs to the row right behind the two. "You guys HAVE to move," Zac said under his breath. Then Sarah realized who they were. Zac's dad, Joel, was easily recognizable. Followed by his brother Matt, his cousin William, and a ton of other relatives Sarah couldn't name even if she wanted to. Brothers, sisters, uncles, cousins, and Zac's mom, who Sarah politely made conversation with (trying to impress her). Eventually, his mom made everyone move down to the floor seats. However, not soon enough. Zac was irritated and made it known. Mainly by showering his family with gummy bears, but he got the message across.

The theater finally dimmed the lights and the movie started. Sarah could tell Zac was debating on whether or not to try and hold her hand. After 20 minutes of excruciating decision-making (or lack thereof), Sarah made it for him. She grabbed his hand and held tight for the rest of the movie. She held his hand most of the ride home, too. While they were on their way out of the parking lot, Zac (trying to extend the date as much as possible) said, "Hey, do you want to come back to my house and play with out new puppy for a while?" And Sarah, not wanting the date to end either, said "I'd love to!"

Zac's house was a little overwhelming for Sarah at first. Being an only child, she wasn't used to having a ton of kids around...especially Zac's eight siblings and five cousins who were up visiting for the weekend. CRAZY!

After the insanity of the Steele home, Zac drove Sarah back to her house. It was a school night, after all. They sat in her driveway and talked for a while and then Sarah decided she'd better call it a night. With her hand on the door, she started to climb out of the van. Just then, in a bold move that was totally out of character, Zac said, "So do I get a kiss or something?" Sarah had to give him credit...that wasn't something she'd EVER expect Zac Steele to say. "Um, sure." She leaned in, her heart fluttering. Zac's was pounding, too. Then, she pecked him on the cheek, hopped out of the van, said "Thanks! I had a good time!" and went inside. Even though it was only a "courtesy kiss," neither one of the two had ever felt more alive. They both knew this relationship was headed somewhere good. And it was!

Family Pictures...

It's been about 6 months since our last family photo shoot. So today, since it was BEAUTIFUL outside, we went for a walk and set up the timer on our camera and snapped a few shots. I can't believe how awesome our little family is!!!

The first one is my favorite of us, and I absolutely love the one of Zac and Logan where Logan is pointing at the camera (one of his new tricks).

Something I've Been Thinking About...

This occurred to me while adding people to our blogger buddies.

Why is it that when we mention a married couple (or any two people, I guess) that we say their names in a particular order? I started listing off couples I know and I decided why I DON'T say names certain ways, but I'm still seeking reasoning.

It's not necessarily gender related...i.e. I say "Kate and Zach." I also say "Sam and Emily."

It's not necessarily who I know better first...i.e. I say "Ben and Marie" and "Mat and Dani" (when Marie and Dani are like my best friends), yet I say "BriAnna and Kristopher" (because I hardly know him).

It's not necessarily syllabic with the shorter one first...i.e. I say "Dan and Lisa" and "Jenny and Joe." However, this one seems to be the rule I stick with most, I think.

But then how do I pick which goes first in the case of names with equal amount of syllables? Like "Sara and Tyson," "Pam and Shawn," "Ty and Jill," "Rachel and Isaac," "Tom and Kim," or even "Bev and Trent?"

These are the kinds of things that keep me up at night.

p.s.- Dani...Logan borrowed James' shirt.

Potato Salad Recipe

SO I was going to put this on the "Purdy Good Cookin' 2" blog, but I'm not a contributor yet (*ahem* Savannah)so I'm putting it here for my wonderful sister-in-law.

Great American Potato Salad

1 cup Miracle Whip (or Mayo if you prefer...sometimes I go 1/2 and 1/2)
1 teaspoon mustard
1/2 tsp Celery Seed
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
4 cups Potatoes, peeled, cooked, and cubed
3 boiled eggs, chopped
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup celery
1/2 cup sweet pickle relish

Combine salad dressing, mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper; mix well.

Add potatoes, eggs, onion, celery, and relish; mix lightly. Chill. Serves 6.

Eeeshk...

I know, I know...I've been a slacker. My apologies, but I do happen to be taking 9 credits this term (which pretty much equals 18 credits during a regular semester). So give me a break.

So Mother's Day was yesterday. I got about a bazillion text messages wishing me a happy one, so thanks! I also got a beautiful card from my parents, a card and one of those Willow Tree angels from my mother-in-law, and a fabulous few days from my husband. Let me explain: Saturday, we went to the mall. First, he took me to dinner and ordered my food for me (cute!)...he got me the best tasting steak I have had in a really long time. After we ate, we wandered around the mall and each spent some money on some much-needed clothes. Well, his were needed, mine were more of a splurge, but that's Mother's Day for you! Then on Sunday, Zac took care of lunch and dinner and I didn't have to step foot in the kitchen all day. It was wonderful! Also, in church, I scored some amazing chocolates from "Mrs. Cavanaugh's Candies" from our ward. Imagine "See's Candies" and then multiply that goodness by like a thousand. Yum. Then today, Zac let me sleep in an extra 2 hours while he got up with Logan. I feel like royalty! Hehehe...

Then for my mom (and Zac's mom) Logan made dvds for their first Mother's Day as Grandmas. But apparently, both of them got kind of scratched in the mail so I'll try to post them online soon. Freaking USPS.

Anyways, that's about all the new stuff I have to talk about. Less than 2 months till I'm back in NY!!! Miss you all!!!!

Update: In my reading of family blogs, I just read that Zac's cousin William is engaged...so Congrats to him! The question is, when will we hear it from HIM?

A Series of (Un)fortunate Events...

Unfortunately, Logan is teething and has a cold.
Fortunately, his cold isn't as bad as mine. I have a fever, too.
Unfortunately, Logan woke up too early for me today and my Nyquil hadn't worn off yet.
Fortunately, my awesome husband got up with him.
Unfortunately, when Zac wakes up, the first thing he does is pee (sorry, hon). And when he flushed the toilet, it overflowed.
Fortunately, it was not nasty toilet water...just regular water. But still from the toilet, so...
Unfortunately, he just stood there and said, "That's not good," while the water ran and ran.
Fortunately, I jumped out of bed and contained most of the water in the bathroom on the tile.
Unfortunately, a good amount of water did escape past my barricade and soaked the carpet in the hallway.
Fortunately, there is an emergency maintenance number.
Unfortunately, the guy didn't pick up the first three times I called.
Fortunately, while waiting for someone from maintenance to call me back, I found reasonable plane tickets to fly home in July!
Unfortunately, they were still $330.
Fortunately, I get to be there for three whole weeks!
Unfortunately, I won't get to see my husband for three whole weeks.
Fortunately, the maintenance guy DID call back.
Unfortunately, it took him an our to get up here.
Fortunately, he brought the wet/dry vac which got the carpet fairly dry.
Unfortunately, by the time he got here and was going to vacuum, Logan was napping.
Fortunately, Logan slept through the vacuum, even though it was right outside his door.
Unfortunately, the toilet was still clogged.
Fortunately, the maintenance guy also brought the snake thing to unclog it.
Unfortunately, while snaking the pipe, the toilet overflowed again.
Fortunately, he was still here so he just vacuumed again. And this time brought a disinfectant carpet spray.
Unfortunately, that made the carpet wet again and Logan can't crawl over there for a while.
Fortunately, the carpet is clean and now I'll be forced to clean the bathroom today.

So, is the glass half empty or half full? I'm not sure, but apparently someone has been drinking out of my glass...