Not-So-Distant Relative

My parents are both only children. That means Michele and I have no aunts, no uncles, and no cousins. Sad, huh? We try to make up for it by insuring our children are super tight so their perspective of aunts, uncles, and cousins is positive.

Growing up, the closest thing I had to a cousin- at least in way you would think of a cousin being close to your age, was "Jason". Jason is the son of my dad's cousin. Which makes us third cousins, or something like that.

The last time I saw Jason was over eight years ago, at the funeral of my grandma. I was two days away from having Mikayla (already overdue with her) and he looked at me constantly with anxiety, quite worried I'd break into labor at any moment. (Not to worry, Jason, I'm still not sure my body is even capable of going into labor on its own as both times I had to be induced). It was funny though - and it had been such a long time since I'd seen him before then - even on such a somber occasion we were able to quickly catch up.

Jason spent two summers at our house. The first one was the summer after my freshman year in college - a year I was particularly lost. His presence made the summer fun - he introduced us to Ben and Jerry's "Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough" ice cream (when that flavor had just been introduced) and the joy of the "Terminator" movies. The second summer was the summer in which I started dating John, so unfortunately, the bonding time with Jason was a bit less at that point. (Jason worked for my dad those summers). Jason is one fun dude - that's just a great way to describe him.

Currently, Jason resides in Jackson Hole with his longtime girlfriend, Katie. While on vacation together, they decided to make a visit out to my parents house. The 45 minutes we had together, was way too short. But, right before the picture of him and I was taken together, I asked him how he was really doing - and his eyes lit up as he told me that there's nothing like living life with your best friend. I told how much I agreed - and still agree 14 years later. It was quite sweet.





Unable to resist being the center of attention, this last picture shows Mackie taking off with Mikayla's flip flop. Oh, how he loves to play -

Getting the Issues Out of the Way BEFORE We Leave This Time

The last major travel vacation we took was in 2008 when we went to Maui. It was glorious - but not without its share of hardships. While we were on the trip, Mikayla had strep throat, two very serious ear infections, while Brayden and I both suffered from Pink Eye. (And, that's not even counting the throwing up from sea sickness on the day we sailed around Lanai). We've had a bit of a history with "issues" happening while on our vacations - from Brayden having a stroke in Oahu, to hitting Lake Tahoe at exactly the same time the Angora Fires occurred.

So, as Brayden woke up this morning - near tears - at 5:20, telling me his ear hurt really bad - I'm making a very conscientious decision to NOT procrastinate. As soon as 8am hits, I'll be calling his doctor to get him in. (Brayden's had a cold that has hung on for some time, so it wouldn't surprise me if indeed he is dealing with something - not to mention both kids seem to have a pretty high pain threshold, so when they are near tears (particularly our little man) - it's time to act). While I'm at it, I'll take Mikayla too. She said one of her ears feels a bit like that - and, once again, no need to take chances.

And, speaking of Mikayla - she got whacked in the forehead yesterday with an aluminum bat. Purty little goose-egg near her hairline. Because Jonna acted so quickly (she was at Kenady's and her little brother accidentally swung his bat too close to Mikayla) - I think the swelling could have been much worse. I googled "head injuries/goose-eggs" last night and am quite assured it's just the telltale swelling and bump as a result of the external head injury - due to all those blood vessels underneath the scalp. As of this morning, you really don't notice it - but, like I said, let's get this out of the way BEFORE we leave.

So, wish us luck as we head to the doc. And let's hope this is it as far as problems go!!!!

Postscript: Went to the doctor, "Raging Ear Infection". So, he's on the "Gold Standard" of antibiotics - to get it healed up before we hit the plane ride. Theoretically, he should have 14 days before traveling, but I think we caught it early enough to not be an issue. No wonder the kid was in so much pain.

Bringing Your "A" Game

With only 8 days left before we depart, emotions are high around here. However, as we all know, hanging on to the "happy high" for extended periods of time is very, very difficult. So, as a result, occasionally those emotions take a nose dive -

That happened yesterday morning. I feel like I've been working overtime trying to keep the house clean, get organized, and oh yes, lose those last five pounds. When, the kids, the tasks, and the scales sabotaged me, for sure, my attitude stunk. There's no point for it when I look at the big picture, but these are the things that sink that happy spirit.

That is, until.....I found "It's a Small World" recorded on a Disney Mania album (on I-Tunes) - and listened to it for the first time while working out. It's a rap version and it literally had me breaking into smile in the workout room. "Everybody get your smile going on" is one of the recurring lyrics - and I just couldn't help but follow their advice.

Attitude - what a daily battle. We are finding Brayden is really struggling with this too - hence the title of this post. He has a "Muscle Systems" report due - along with a 3D project and poster. Technically, it is due the week after we return, but there is no way I'm going to return from Florida only to deal with that depressing deadline. Brayden is also participating in a 5th grade musical next Tuesday. Surprisingly, he has one of the lead roles - so once again, "A Game" needed. So, instead, when I discover yesterday morning he not only hadn't completed his homework but left a sheet at school (which he was able to complete before school started) - we had a bit of a "Pep Talk" on the way to school. (And, of course, that pep talk included the way the kids treat each other and how I CAN'T STAND their arguing, and won't waste all of my enthusiasm prior to this trip listening to their negativity to each other....broken record.......)

So, eight more days. We can do it. And, if, in a week - the scales still aren't nice, the house isn't spotless, and perhaps I've forgotten something in packing (that can purchased easily enough at the Target in Orlando) - we will still be leaving for our dream vacation. And, if that alone isn't enough to keep me positively focused, I'm not sure what would ever do it! =)

Mikayla's First Spring Soccer Game

On Saturday, Mikayla had her first spring soccer game. It is a seven game season, and wouldn't you know it, but because of our trip to the coast next weekend and our trip to Orlando, Mikayla's missing four of the games. Oh well, watching her play any games is a lot of fun - and just getting her out of the house exercising three times a week is a plus too.

In addition, we have had an added bonus this year in that Brayden requested that he be able to help out the coach for her team. As he's not playing a spring sport, that works for us - and keeps him busy too. After he asked the coach to help for that first practice, we received a phone call from the coach who praised all of Brayden's efforts and his character for being so willing as a fifth grader to help a group of second grade girls (including his own sister). Way to go Brayden - and certainly a departure from their constant arguing.

Despite Brayden's extra expertise assistance, the girls ended up losing. As it's pretty much the same team as the fall team, these girls are just too nice, and not nearly aggressive enough to be winning.....But, I'll take it any day, as Mikayla's smile just keeps on shining.

Thanks again, Kaela, for the pics - and even more, for coming with Walt to support the kids - Between you guys and Mom, Dad, Michele and the kiddos - what a fan club!

A Super-Great Weekend

This weekend has been just what I'd hoped for. Sunny, relaxed - but with plenty of things to do to keep us all occupied. The Schilling family has been down, and the Whites have been here much of the time too - so the "Orlando Anticipation" has been very high. We're all a bit giddy. This is actually the last weekend we'll all be together before we leave - as our family is heading to the college group's retreat to the beach next weekend. Yesterday, Michele and I did our "pre-trip" visit to Target - and both of us have had, at different times, mounds of clothes strewn all over the living room- anticipating getting it all packed into suitcases. The latest round of "clothes take-over" would all be Michael's - as he and Michele just returned from their first joint shopping trip for clothes for him in four years. Michele isn't quite sure what happened to her hubby - or whose husband she ended up with - as Michael took quite in interest in trendy styles while shopping and had a lot of fun with her. Currently, both men are out together at the mall - looking for a money clip for Michael, and perhaps - a couple pairs of shorts for Michele and I. Yes, we're spoiled with VERY GOOD men. =)

Based on the pictures from Friday - the kids and I had a good day - but I didn't elaborate that part of the day was special due to the visit by Kaela and Julie to use my residence as their car wash. I'm not sure what happened, but last time Julie came over to use my hose to wash her car, she proceeded to wash my car too. (What a deal, huh?!) But, this time, instead of that, they not only used my stuff, but used my kids as their slave labor too - and IGNORED my vehicle. What gives with that, huh? I'm just kidding, just having their company - and clearly delighting my kids, totally warmed my heart. =)








(Thanks Kaela, for all of the great images - and for those soon to come of Mikayla's soccer game!)

First Bike Ride of the Year

Well, after 3 repaired chains and 6 tires inflated, Brayden, Mikayla and I were on our way on our first bike ride of the year. It's close to 70 here today, and with a no-school day - it seemed like the thing to do.

We were rewarded on our bike ride by witnessing an osprey fly away from the river with a fish in its mouth, baby geese, and baby turtles. Very cool - especially considering all of this along the Willamette River is within an easy bike ride from our house.


The kids did great, though Mikayla did hit some slick grass and took a spill - but still recovered valiantly.

Between that, having some great time with 4 different college women today, and getting some much-needed weeding done (rather painlessly) - it's been a great start to this three day weekend.

P.S. - Speaking of wildlife, I have to record this little dialogue as it was just too cute. The kids have come up with the idea of having a family verse to memorize each week (rotate who chooses). This week John chose Ephesians 4:29 as the words the kids use towards each other aren't exactly edifying.

So, a couple of nights ago, Mikayla recited the verse perfectly to John. He praised her and then asked where the verse was found in the Bible. Her response?.........Ummmm, "Amphibians?"........

OMSI

Today I got to accompany Brayden's class to Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (aka OMSI). It was a GREAT day for a field trip - blue skies, ideal destination, and the kick-off to a 3 day weekend as there is no school tomorrow.

I rode up with three neat gals - Jack's mom, Kristen, and then two other moms of fifth graders. It was fun having "Mom Time" chatting it up for the two hour drive there and back.

I also have to say that the day was enhanced by being the leader to a super group of four boys. Brayden, his buddy Nick, fellow basketball player, Michael, and fellow football player, Spencer. The pictures show them ranging from the life science, to the earth science, to the space exhibit, down to the physical science realms of the museum.








This next picture is of Brayden and I - and let me tell that my camera had the color all washed out, so what I came up with is not "true coloring" - just in case you were looking at my hair thinking, "I don't see what she wasted her money on!" =)
And, finally, this is a picture of Brayden with the school principal, Mr. Nelson. I love this guy. What an ABSOLUTE change from the previous principal who I personally took part in writing a letter to have her "re-assigned". Yes, it was that bad. In contrast, Gig (Mr. Nelson) is so personable, so warm - and so engaged - and he makes an effort to be part of the kids' lives. Even if it means spending half of his day with us at OMSI and then driving across Portland to the zoo where the third graders were. I'm so thankful Gig is the one now in charge of our school.

Monopolizing the Conversations

Yesterday, I got my hair done - yippee! I wish I could afford to have it done more often, but generally I only indulge a couple of times a year.

Because the person I've gone to for about 7 or so years left the salon recently, my appointment got rescheduled with a young gal new to Bello. (That would be the name of the hair salon). So, it was a little bit of a dive for me to trust that she'd do what I want and that I'd like her personality, but it turned out to be very much worth the risk.

While my hair is very "stripe-y", John loves all the blond highlights, and I think I'm happy with the change too. The whole appointment lasted 3 hours and 45 minutes. When it comes to someone tending to my hair, I SOOOO don't have a problem with it lasting longer than expected. The "pampering" was wonderful. Christine, the stylist, was also wonderful. Young, super-sweet, and interactive - I felt just a little bit guilty talking her ear off for the majority of the time. But, even before the color had revealed itself after the foils were removed and hair dried, I'd already decided I'd be returning again, just because I like her so much.

Then, later on, last night, we had Walt and Kaela over for a bar-b-q. Silly Walt had mentioned to Kaela that he'd enjoy hanging with the Rileys sometime, so he ended up with this:



Fortunately, the kids ended up all going over to Amy's house, which was super great as it gave us time to hang out with Kaela and Walt without their distraction. Which really meant, that for the second time yesterday, I was partly involved in monopolizing the conversation. John and I detailed many of our major "Riley" stories. I'm pretty sure we TMI'd the poor guy, but then again, John and I tend to do that often with the college students. (We like to see them blush and also prove that being married isn't then end of life that's fun and exciting.....).

So, that was my day yesterday - overall, a lot of fun, but maybe twinged with a bit of guilt for not letting my friends get much of a word in edgewise. =)

Really Excellent Roommates

Yesterday, we went to see "Date Night" - featuring Steve Carrell and Tina Fey (sans kids, but with the Whites). While I can't say it's rated "G", and some who read this blog might find themselves offended by a few choice words or scenes of "risque-ness", John and I (and Travis and Steph) found it absolutely hilarious! We loved it. We laughed a lot, and if there's ever a movie I'd recommend to a couple that's been married a while to go out and see as a "date night" - it would be "Date Night".

If you've seen the previews, the whole story of the movie is about a couple (the lead actors) who have been married a while, are stuck in a rut (according to the rest of the world's views) - and decide to shake things up a bit by a date night in the "city" (NYC). The rest you'll just have to see for yourselves. However, I will divulge that the title of this post refers to a quote in the movie describing one of the reasons a couple in the movie gives as to why they've chosen to no longer stay married. Essentially, they are sad that they're relationship has evolved into being just "really excellent roommates".

On April 27th, John and I will have been married 14 years. I can honestly tell you that our relationship looks nothing like it did in July of 1995. Back then, it was the fodder for Taylor Swift songs - especially the song "You Belong with Me". (If that was playing back then, I'd have watched the video constantly, hoping John would have finally figured it out....). Those were the days of twittering heartbeats, and butterflies in the stomach. When a look from his eyes made me melt - made me feel so vulnerable, so ecstatic, so "living the fairy tale".

It's not like that now. But, I'm also adamant that we aren't just really excellent roommates either. Over the years, our relationship has gone from Romeo and Juliet to partners in life. When he looks at me now, I see SECURITY, CONTENTMENT, secrets shared, and laughter......you know, the kind of laughter that happens when you've revealed everything to someone else and even the most intimate moments aren't taboo to break into a huge smile and giggle and think, "how did we get here, pretending to be grown-ups, having children already at ages 8 and 11?"

I don't second-guess whether he loves me, or if I'll get a ring and when, if his "feelings have changed", or if I'm still good enough for him. All that's over, done, gone when we said, "I do". Now, I do second guess which battle to engage in, how much I'm delivering his love languages, and whether or not I've shared the "calendar for the week" with him - but never if we aren't truly each others' life mates.

While I watch these college friends go through the thrills and agonies of falling in love, instead of envy - I find myself head over heals for all of the memories of that like "love story" which we shared 14 years ago, but much more than that- so incredibly thankful that John and I are in a place so much more abundant and satisfying - and not just being "really excellent roommates".

Odds and Ends

Greetings everyone! I hope this week has been good for you - it's been a 180 for me since last week - huge praise to God for that one.

First up, a story that happened on Easter afternoon. It was one of those things that happened that I thought, "wait 'til my blog family hears about this one!" I went to take a bath, something I do frequently and very much enjoy as a "book reading retreat". As is normal, I light a candle and position myself so I'm backed up against the wall and read away while a small stream of new hot water cascades over me. After about 10 minutes of tranquility, I started to small something vaguely familiar and really nasty - something burning........OMIGOSH! That's my hair!!!! Burning in the candle (stupidly positioned at the wrong place in the tub)!!!!!!!!!! It's a good thing my nose wasn't as stopped up at that point, because, truly, the smell was the only indicator there was a problem.

So, I thinned out my hair a bit in the back - which doesn't appear to be an issue (though it's the back of my hair, so it's hard to tell......). I have very thick hair so it shouldn't be too bad. I am so excited to have a hair appt. on Monday, I bet the gal who will be doing my hair will get quite a kick out of this one!

Next up, Sydney is happy again as she's been invited to ride with me again. I was waiting for the all weather mats to bring her back. She likes to sit in the front seat - but the sensor gets very angry that she doesn't wear her seat belt and beeps at us constantly. So, we had to attach it behind her to solve the problem. =)

Finally, a set of three pictures of Brayden's official birthday cake. This set came from Grandma Liupakka for Christmas and Brayden begged to use it for his birthday. We used a brownie mix and did it Tuesday night and frosted it yesterday with the cream cheese frosting (it even has a filling of that too). As I'm working really hard to drop the pounds before Orlando, I passed on it, but wow.....it looked so good. Brayden and Jack verified that it tasted oh so good too. Thanks Grandma!

CeleBRAYDing Number Eleven

Brayden got double celebration honors today as he got both breakfast and dinner out. Breakfast was at Denny's - we arrived there at 6:10 am (um, yes, we obviously love that kid to do such a thing) - and then, this evening we hit Applebees with Travis and Stephie in tow.

Brayden was beyond excited to get to his gifts and cards - both the one from us and the Whites were "sound" cards - and with the noise in the restaurant it was hard to hear without leaning in.



There's a reason we head to these same old restaurants - we know what to expect. The food, the atmosphere - good times. However, tonight came something we did NOT expect. Prior to our food arriving, a gentleman came to our table to greet Brayden and remark about his birthday that we assumed was the restaurant manager. He began to banter with Brayden - joke around with him, and before we knew it, he was astonishing us with magic tricks. First, it was one dollar bills turning into twenty dollar bills - and then rubber bands that incredulously passed through one another.


Then, came the cards - and with them, more humor. Eventually, he had Brayden sign a card - and that card began appearing everywhere - ultimately, folded up in his wallet. Are you kidding me!?!




When we asked him to return to our table to give us a business card (it turns out he works at the Applebees on Tuesday nights and other restaurants on other evenings....and, hmmmmm, does birthday parties......) - he gave us a big spiel on how the other siblings often feel left out on birthdays and how Mikayla deserves something too. So, he folded a napkin into a rose and made it light up inside.....she was very impressed.

To top off the most entertaining evening we've ever had at Applebees came Brayden's hot fudge sundae.

Immediately following dinner, we hightailed it across the parking lot to Target and Brayden used all of his accumulated gift cards and saved up money to get the personal gaming system he's been longing for. It's one of those things where it wouldn't be my first choice on how to spend the money, but they were his gift cards and his efforts saving, so, we gave him our blessing. (And, let's not ignore the fact that this particular item will probably keep him quite happy on the long plane ride to Orlando in a few weeks.)

So, there you go. Happy Birthday Brayden! We couldn't be prouder to have you as our son.