1. Stop being so lazy and go for a jog once a week or walk three times a week.
2. Go back to memorizing scripture masteries. 2 each month.
3. Learn how to cook something new each month.
4. By the end of the year, I want to help someone come back to church or join the church.
5. Need to be more positive and patient.
Ok, I better not list any more or I'll forget them or get overwhelmed.
Hope that everyone has a happy new year!!!
Love my family!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
My 2011 in a minute
So I took this idea from my sister, who took it from my aunt . . . . :)
I became a mommy this year when my first child was born, my son, Alyxander in February. He is such a cutie and puts a smile on my face. Jason and I celebrated our 1st year of marriage to each other in May by visiting the Anniversary Inn which I totally recommend for any married couple. :) My little family and I had the opportunity to live in Japan over the summer due to Jason's internship, teaching little kids English. It was quite an adventure, I grew to love the people there but had a hard time with the food and humidity not to mention the language barrier. By the time we got back from Japan, Alyx was saying ma ma. Jason and I visited Las Vegas as a getaway from life and celebration to me quitting my job. We celebrated Alyx's first Christmas with our families.
Ok, I know there wasn't too many exciting details there. But actually there was quite alot that happened. It's just that once you become a parent, your world revolves around your kids. So this year held a bunch of awesome things. :) Just watching Alyx grow up has been an adventure and he's just beginning.
I became a mommy this year when my first child was born, my son, Alyxander in February. He is such a cutie and puts a smile on my face. Jason and I celebrated our 1st year of marriage to each other in May by visiting the Anniversary Inn which I totally recommend for any married couple. :) My little family and I had the opportunity to live in Japan over the summer due to Jason's internship, teaching little kids English. It was quite an adventure, I grew to love the people there but had a hard time with the food and humidity not to mention the language barrier. By the time we got back from Japan, Alyx was saying ma ma. Jason and I visited Las Vegas as a getaway from life and celebration to me quitting my job. We celebrated Alyx's first Christmas with our families.
Ok, I know there wasn't too many exciting details there. But actually there was quite alot that happened. It's just that once you become a parent, your world revolves around your kids. So this year held a bunch of awesome things. :) Just watching Alyx grow up has been an adventure and he's just beginning.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Faith
A few weeks ago, I had thoughts popping up, in my dreams, while I was reading and just doing normal every day things. Lost and confused as of what to do and if I was really getting them from the Spirit or if it was just me going crazy, I prayed and went to the Temple for help and guidance. There I received my answer and knew what the Lord was wanting me to do. I accepted it and told Jason.
Funny thing, you can get answers from the Lord, but that doesn't make things easier. In the end, we still have our agency of what to do.
I was a bit unsure of the future but continued on with my life.
Up until last night I was starting to believe I can do what the Lord has in store for me. I should know by now that Satan is continually working on me. He pulled me down, dragging my thoughts of doubt and my ability to do what my Heavenly Father wants me to do. After a while I started to pray, pleading for another way to do his will. I felt horrible. A failure and utterly ridiculous. Who am I to ask God if I can change what he wants of me? To have things go my way? I didn't see how I was supposed to do what he wanted of me. I thought there was no way I was to accomplish his will. Finally I fell asleep and later woke up feeling drained and weak. Alone and not sure.
Continuing on, the outside world fit my mood. Dreary and depressing. Thoughts kept coming to my mind. How am I supposed to do this? I don't think I could really do what is needed of me. Then I remembered a scripture . . .
Nephi was asked to get the plates, even after King Laban had tried to kill him and his brothers. With faith, he followed the Spirit and did what he needed to do, knowing that the Lord was with him.
I was tried and tested. Now, when it comes to things that I think are impossible or if I feel inadequate, I need to remember to put my faith in my Father in Heaven. If he wants me to do something, if I do my best, he will give me the strength and help that I need to accomplish the task he asks of me.
Funny thing, you can get answers from the Lord, but that doesn't make things easier. In the end, we still have our agency of what to do.
I was a bit unsure of the future but continued on with my life.
Up until last night I was starting to believe I can do what the Lord has in store for me. I should know by now that Satan is continually working on me. He pulled me down, dragging my thoughts of doubt and my ability to do what my Heavenly Father wants me to do. After a while I started to pray, pleading for another way to do his will. I felt horrible. A failure and utterly ridiculous. Who am I to ask God if I can change what he wants of me? To have things go my way? I didn't see how I was supposed to do what he wanted of me. I thought there was no way I was to accomplish his will. Finally I fell asleep and later woke up feeling drained and weak. Alone and not sure.
Continuing on, the outside world fit my mood. Dreary and depressing. Thoughts kept coming to my mind. How am I supposed to do this? I don't think I could really do what is needed of me. Then I remembered a scripture . . .
1 Nephi 3:7
7 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.
Nephi was asked to get the plates, even after King Laban had tried to kill him and his brothers. With faith, he followed the Spirit and did what he needed to do, knowing that the Lord was with him.
I was tried and tested. Now, when it comes to things that I think are impossible or if I feel inadequate, I need to remember to put my faith in my Father in Heaven. If he wants me to do something, if I do my best, he will give me the strength and help that I need to accomplish the task he asks of me.
Monday, November 28, 2011
UPDATE!! Vegas, Black Friday, and Thanksgiving.
So about a week ago I went to Vegas . . . did I have fun? Well yes . . . and no. It was not what I was expecting and for sure not planned but isn't that how life goes? The plan was to go down to Sin city, away from the Bubble of Provo, ha ha, no but really go to Vegas and have fun. Go on rides, eat some great food since they have FANTASTIC buffets, walk on the strip, go to the M&M store, see the Bellagio fountain and go do a session at the Las Vegas temple.
So we flew in to Vegas (not in first class like I was hoping) and met my Uncle Dan and Aunt Barbra. They were kind enough to let us borrow their car. Car? Is that what I said. I meant hybrid. Yep. We drove in a pretty sweet vehicle. :) We had reservations at the Stratosphere, which is freaking awesome. Has multiple rides on top of the tower and we were going to ride them . . . at night. Scary, but totally fun. Anyway, so after we got the car, dropped off the luggage at the hotel and drove to the strip. We parked at New York New York and wandered around. It was fun, except for the smoke in the casinos, yuck. Oh! Which reminds me, we laughed when we flew in to Vegas because in the airport there were slot machines. Yep, we were in Vegas. :) Back to the story, we walked around and I introduced him to my favorite store on the strip. THE M&M STORE!!! It was fun, we went on all 4 levels and bought peanut m&m's and coconut, yes they have coconut and it was DElish. So after that, we were getting hungry. Walking around we looked for something to eat. We decided on this place called Indian Cuisine. This was going to be my downfall in the trip. It turned out to be a buffet and the food smelled and tasted really good. I love curry, thanks to my father-in-law who makes amazing food and spicy curry. I usually just take a few bites because it's so hot. But I love his food. The food here wasn't as spicy but it was my pushing point and I ate all the food I got. Bad Makayla. Later I learned my stomach wasn't happy with this decision.
Jason and I walked around and saw some of the different hotels. One of the attractions we saw at a hotel had some lions and some baby cubs that were so cute!! We went back to our hotel and checked in, and our room had a semi good view of downtown. We went back to the strip and saw the Luxor. Had some cool stuff in it. We visited Caesar's Palace and the underground shops which have prices that are ridiculous but we had fun. We continued on our walk, and I noticed it got dark in Vegas really fast. About 5 in the afternoon or so and lights were already turning on. Real night life wouldn't begin till 7. I had a small headache growing but tried to ignore it, hoping it would go away. It didn't. We saw the Bellagio fountain show, which went with music and it was gorgeous and romantic. I loved it. :) What I didn't love was that I was beginning to become hyper smell sensitive. Cigarette smoke, perfume, cologne, and people with alcohol breath made me nauseous. It wasn't fun and I was not feeling good at all. Jason started looking for a store that would sell us tylenol or any medicine to help me. Most of the time he shielded my face the best he could so the smells wouldn't get to me. When we finally bought water and medicine it was too late. Ran to the bathroom and stayed in there for a while. :( Not fun. So we slowly made our way back to the car and returned to our hotel. We never got to go on the rides on top of the Stratosphere like we wanted but oh well. I did feel better a few hours later and Jason and I figured the Indian food was why I got sick. Take note, if something is pushing your spicy limit, don't keep eating it or your stomach will get back at you. The next day I was normal again but disappointed. But I was happy that the fact I felt better so I could go to the temple. Before the temple we did visit a pawn shop that has a show on TV. :) Heard of 'Pawn Stars'? That was it. Later we did a sealing session with my Aunt and Uncle and it was what we needed. It was so peaceful and glorious. The perfect way to end our trip.
Now on Thanksgiving, my mom, my sister Ashlea, and I planned to go to Kohl's midnight, for Black Friday. Another sister of mine, Tricia, came along too. Which surprised me because she's so young so I wondered if she could handle be out so late . . . or early. She barely made it. We were doing this partially for fun, and partially for Ashlea's sweet 16 birthday. :) We didn't wait in line, but rather waited for all the screaming running people to be in the store and merged with the people who were more calm and not so crazy. What am I talking about? We were shopping at midnight, course we're crazy. lol. I had wanted to come because I've never had the Black Friday experience and it would be fun to be with my family. So I came with the idea of looking for stuff for Alyx, Jason or myself. The first 16 seconds, I admired clothes for me, then moved on. I ended of getting my christmas shopping pretty much done for everyone and had not spent anything on me. Yep, I'm a mom all right. I have to say though, I'm quite proud of myself. This is the earliest I've ever gotten my Christmas shopping done. Yay for me!!
Now on Friday night, it was my mom's side of the family thanksgiving get together. I can't remember having so much fun. Watching my son, Alyx, play with a basketball and being with my sisters. It was great to have us all together again. We were being silly, playing or attempting to play the ha ha game, building a pyramid with our bodies, and taking turns getting on our sisters backs. I still can't believe that Ashlea could carry me. lol. Our mom took pictures and we got some good shots. For sure, one of our best times as sisters together. :)
So we flew in to Vegas (not in first class like I was hoping) and met my Uncle Dan and Aunt Barbra. They were kind enough to let us borrow their car. Car? Is that what I said. I meant hybrid. Yep. We drove in a pretty sweet vehicle. :) We had reservations at the Stratosphere, which is freaking awesome. Has multiple rides on top of the tower and we were going to ride them . . . at night. Scary, but totally fun. Anyway, so after we got the car, dropped off the luggage at the hotel and drove to the strip. We parked at New York New York and wandered around. It was fun, except for the smoke in the casinos, yuck. Oh! Which reminds me, we laughed when we flew in to Vegas because in the airport there were slot machines. Yep, we were in Vegas. :) Back to the story, we walked around and I introduced him to my favorite store on the strip. THE M&M STORE!!! It was fun, we went on all 4 levels and bought peanut m&m's and coconut, yes they have coconut and it was DElish. So after that, we were getting hungry. Walking around we looked for something to eat. We decided on this place called Indian Cuisine. This was going to be my downfall in the trip. It turned out to be a buffet and the food smelled and tasted really good. I love curry, thanks to my father-in-law who makes amazing food and spicy curry. I usually just take a few bites because it's so hot. But I love his food. The food here wasn't as spicy but it was my pushing point and I ate all the food I got. Bad Makayla. Later I learned my stomach wasn't happy with this decision.
Jason and I walked around and saw some of the different hotels. One of the attractions we saw at a hotel had some lions and some baby cubs that were so cute!! We went back to our hotel and checked in, and our room had a semi good view of downtown. We went back to the strip and saw the Luxor. Had some cool stuff in it. We visited Caesar's Palace and the underground shops which have prices that are ridiculous but we had fun. We continued on our walk, and I noticed it got dark in Vegas really fast. About 5 in the afternoon or so and lights were already turning on. Real night life wouldn't begin till 7. I had a small headache growing but tried to ignore it, hoping it would go away. It didn't. We saw the Bellagio fountain show, which went with music and it was gorgeous and romantic. I loved it. :) What I didn't love was that I was beginning to become hyper smell sensitive. Cigarette smoke, perfume, cologne, and people with alcohol breath made me nauseous. It wasn't fun and I was not feeling good at all. Jason started looking for a store that would sell us tylenol or any medicine to help me. Most of the time he shielded my face the best he could so the smells wouldn't get to me. When we finally bought water and medicine it was too late. Ran to the bathroom and stayed in there for a while. :( Not fun. So we slowly made our way back to the car and returned to our hotel. We never got to go on the rides on top of the Stratosphere like we wanted but oh well. I did feel better a few hours later and Jason and I figured the Indian food was why I got sick. Take note, if something is pushing your spicy limit, don't keep eating it or your stomach will get back at you. The next day I was normal again but disappointed. But I was happy that the fact I felt better so I could go to the temple. Before the temple we did visit a pawn shop that has a show on TV. :) Heard of 'Pawn Stars'? That was it. Later we did a sealing session with my Aunt and Uncle and it was what we needed. It was so peaceful and glorious. The perfect way to end our trip.
Now on Thanksgiving, my mom, my sister Ashlea, and I planned to go to Kohl's midnight, for Black Friday. Another sister of mine, Tricia, came along too. Which surprised me because she's so young so I wondered if she could handle be out so late . . . or early. She barely made it. We were doing this partially for fun, and partially for Ashlea's sweet 16 birthday. :) We didn't wait in line, but rather waited for all the screaming running people to be in the store and merged with the people who were more calm and not so crazy. What am I talking about? We were shopping at midnight, course we're crazy. lol. I had wanted to come because I've never had the Black Friday experience and it would be fun to be with my family. So I came with the idea of looking for stuff for Alyx, Jason or myself. The first 16 seconds, I admired clothes for me, then moved on. I ended of getting my christmas shopping pretty much done for everyone and had not spent anything on me. Yep, I'm a mom all right. I have to say though, I'm quite proud of myself. This is the earliest I've ever gotten my Christmas shopping done. Yay for me!!
Now on Friday night, it was my mom's side of the family thanksgiving get together. I can't remember having so much fun. Watching my son, Alyx, play with a basketball and being with my sisters. It was great to have us all together again. We were being silly, playing or attempting to play the ha ha game, building a pyramid with our bodies, and taking turns getting on our sisters backs. I still can't believe that Ashlea could carry me. lol. Our mom took pictures and we got some good shots. For sure, one of our best times as sisters together. :)
Monday, November 14, 2011
Bittersweet feelings
Sooo, I'm really looking forward to the end of this week and at the same time dreading it. This Thursday is supposed to be my last day working at the airport, (hopefully). I've already pushed it back by three months, but this should be the last time . . . that is if I don't push it back again. But that's not the reason for the feelings.
I'm super excited because my dear husband and I are going to VEGAS!!! :) He's never been there and I've been there but only as a kid/teenager. So I'm looking forward to showing him to cool things about Vegas and having some good memories made there. The Bellagio fountain and the Las Vegas Temple are top on my list. It would be nice to see some shows down there but because of the price we decided to skip out on those and do other things . . . like going on the STRATOSPHERE RIDES!!! YAY! haha. Anyway, we might go to the 'Pawn Stars" shop just because my husband and in-laws love watching that show, sometimes I like watching it too.
Now to why I'm not looking forward to this weekend. It'll be the first time I'm away from my baby boy for more than 30 something hours. The longest I've been away from Alyx has been fifteen-ish hours and we were still in the same state! Just less than half an hours drive from him! Now I'm going to be a state away and HOURS away from him. It's going to be tough. I'm so torn, from spending quality time with Jason to leaving Alyx. *sigh* It sucks.
I'm super excited because my dear husband and I are going to VEGAS!!! :) He's never been there and I've been there but only as a kid/teenager. So I'm looking forward to showing him to cool things about Vegas and having some good memories made there. The Bellagio fountain and the Las Vegas Temple are top on my list. It would be nice to see some shows down there but because of the price we decided to skip out on those and do other things . . . like going on the STRATOSPHERE RIDES!!! YAY! haha. Anyway, we might go to the 'Pawn Stars" shop just because my husband and in-laws love watching that show, sometimes I like watching it too.
Now to why I'm not looking forward to this weekend. It'll be the first time I'm away from my baby boy for more than 30 something hours. The longest I've been away from Alyx has been fifteen-ish hours and we were still in the same state! Just less than half an hours drive from him! Now I'm going to be a state away and HOURS away from him. It's going to be tough. I'm so torn, from spending quality time with Jason to leaving Alyx. *sigh* It sucks.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Teething pains and puppy dog eyes
So Alyx is now cutting two teeth, and I dunno who is in more pain . . . . him or me.
Besides all the biting that he does to me which is not fun at all, he also has been keeping me up all night because of his pain. Poor guy. But POOR ME TOO!!! It's quite easy to be patient and understanding the first time and second time, and maybe even third time. But the fourth and so on??? Especially since sometimes it takes half an hour to get him back to sleep or rarely one full hour. By then it's not easy at all to maintain the calmness and patience that I have gained by being a mother. There are times when I just wish I could put in ear plugs. But the guilt and his poor little cries hit my heart and I give in and go to his room to comfort him and try to sing him back to sleep. That's not all, I've been paying attention and my guess is when the bottom two are done cutting and causing him pain, the fun begins once again with the top. There are signs that they will follow soon. *sigh*
Something though that I can tell is (dunno if it's because I'm his mother or just my bond with him, wait isn't that the same thing. . . anyway) when he bites me and I react he immediately backs off and he gets a unique sad cute little look that is so clear to me that he knows he just put me in pain and is telling me that he's sorry and it is one of the most ADORABLE looks i've ever seen on him. The best way I can describe it is his eyes go wide and he already has the most beautiful blue eyes but I swear they just get the puppy dog quality look to them and he looks so sad. Dunno where he got that, because it's certainly not from me or Jason.
But no matter the challenges and small hardships that come with motherhood. I love being a mom to my little boy. :) He is amazing and super intelligent and creates more happy memories for me than I could ever imagine. I love my little Alyxander.
Besides all the biting that he does to me which is not fun at all, he also has been keeping me up all night because of his pain. Poor guy. But POOR ME TOO!!! It's quite easy to be patient and understanding the first time and second time, and maybe even third time. But the fourth and so on??? Especially since sometimes it takes half an hour to get him back to sleep or rarely one full hour. By then it's not easy at all to maintain the calmness and patience that I have gained by being a mother. There are times when I just wish I could put in ear plugs. But the guilt and his poor little cries hit my heart and I give in and go to his room to comfort him and try to sing him back to sleep. That's not all, I've been paying attention and my guess is when the bottom two are done cutting and causing him pain, the fun begins once again with the top. There are signs that they will follow soon. *sigh*
Something though that I can tell is (dunno if it's because I'm his mother or just my bond with him, wait isn't that the same thing. . . anyway) when he bites me and I react he immediately backs off and he gets a unique sad cute little look that is so clear to me that he knows he just put me in pain and is telling me that he's sorry and it is one of the most ADORABLE looks i've ever seen on him. The best way I can describe it is his eyes go wide and he already has the most beautiful blue eyes but I swear they just get the puppy dog quality look to them and he looks so sad. Dunno where he got that, because it's certainly not from me or Jason.
But no matter the challenges and small hardships that come with motherhood. I love being a mom to my little boy. :) He is amazing and super intelligent and creates more happy memories for me than I could ever imagine. I love my little Alyxander.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Another first for Alyx
A while back, Alyx started teething. Ok . . . so that's not new. When my family and I returned, I noticed that I could feel Alyx's bottom gums and there was a different feel to them then there (how'd you like those words together, haha) was before. So I knew some teeth were on the way. Well, I'd like to say Alyx has a tooth that you can actually see . . . that is with his cooperation, which is hard to get sometimes. lol. I'm super excited, to a point that is. Guess he will be drinking from bottles more now and eating more veggies than before. :)
Friday, October 14, 2011
So long, farewell . . .
Goodbye everyone! I will miss you tons!! So much that I might come and visit you . . . maybe not.
But beware!! If I do visit you, I just might eat your BRAAAAAINS. Mwahahaha. I'm becoming a zombie tomorrow and running a 5k. Hopefully I won't really die at the end of the race. I'm not looking to be the fastest and try to win a prize. I'm just looking to do my best and see what I can do. Maybe in the next year I'll attempt to win something. But for now I'm just having some fun with a great friend of mine, dressing up, putting some make up and a little blood here and there on my face and clothes then running after some humans.
Doesn't that sound like so much fun?!?! I'll let you know how I do and maybe put some pics up. That is . . . if I'm still among the living. :) But if not, watch out . . . I might just be at your door step.
But beware!! If I do visit you, I just might eat your BRAAAAAINS. Mwahahaha. I'm becoming a zombie tomorrow and running a 5k. Hopefully I won't really die at the end of the race. I'm not looking to be the fastest and try to win a prize. I'm just looking to do my best and see what I can do. Maybe in the next year I'll attempt to win something. But for now I'm just having some fun with a great friend of mine, dressing up, putting some make up and a little blood here and there on my face and clothes then running after some humans.
Doesn't that sound like so much fun?!?! I'll let you know how I do and maybe put some pics up. That is . . . if I'm still among the living. :) But if not, watch out . . . I might just be at your door step.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Green Beans vs. Carrots
The battle continues . . . getting Alyx to eat his vegetables.
So trying to get Alyx to eat green beans was a real chore. He liked it for the first few spoonfuls probably just because it had a different flavor then I had to start doing airplane and choo choo train noises just to get him to smile and open his mouth. Then I had to tickle him a little to trick him to eat some more. It just became a hassle and eventually I settled with him not entirely finishing the small portion I had made for him. Then I switched to a new veggie . . . CARROTS!! lol. :)
He devoured them!! He even makes happy sounds while eating. It's soo funny. He sometimes laughs before he leans forward to get the spoon in his mouth . . . AND he even finishes the entire thing, sometimes wanting more. Needless to say, carrots won.
So trying to get Alyx to eat green beans was a real chore. He liked it for the first few spoonfuls probably just because it had a different flavor then I had to start doing airplane and choo choo train noises just to get him to smile and open his mouth. Then I had to tickle him a little to trick him to eat some more. It just became a hassle and eventually I settled with him not entirely finishing the small portion I had made for him. Then I switched to a new veggie . . . CARROTS!! lol. :)
He devoured them!! He even makes happy sounds while eating. It's soo funny. He sometimes laughs before he leans forward to get the spoon in his mouth . . . AND he even finishes the entire thing, sometimes wanting more. Needless to say, carrots won.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Mr. Squeakers and green beans!! :)
So Alyx has been crawling for two weeks now. YAY! But for those of you have seen him crawl, it can make you laugh, for reasons more than one. He occasionally uses his knees to get him forward but mostly he just gets on his knees and propels himself forward landing on his stomach. He can really go when he just pulls his body along, not even bothering to get up. Anyway, one time Alyx was crawling, Jason started laughing. He told me that when Alyx had gotten on his knees, went forward, landing on his stomach . . . he uttered a squeak!!! So once in a while when Alyx is crawling around he makes a squeaking noise, it's so cute. :) It really made us smile and laugh.
I know you must be wondering how the green beans fit in . . . WELL HOLD ON!! Gosh. lol. Jk. Today, Alyx had vegetables for the first time today, therefore green beans. Jason fed them to him, it was hilarious watching!!! It was Jason's first time feeding Alyx solid food. He tried imitating me. Doing airplane noises and such. I watched for a while and took some pictures and then had to leave because I was distracting Alyx. Jason got a little bit in at a time and later told me that I made it look so easy. I laughed and told him that I've had more experience doing it and that he needed more patience (and practice). Maybe in the future I'll give him more turns to feed Alyx. :)
I know you must be wondering how the green beans fit in . . . WELL HOLD ON!! Gosh. lol. Jk. Today, Alyx had vegetables for the first time today, therefore green beans. Jason fed them to him, it was hilarious watching!!! It was Jason's first time feeding Alyx solid food. He tried imitating me. Doing airplane noises and such. I watched for a while and took some pictures and then had to leave because I was distracting Alyx. Jason got a little bit in at a time and later told me that I made it look so easy. I laughed and told him that I've had more experience doing it and that he needed more patience (and practice). Maybe in the future I'll give him more turns to feed Alyx. :)
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Moment of terror
Today after some hours of cooking, cleaning the house, taking care of Alyx, resting, and more cleaning, I decided I needed some fun. So I started to read a book. I came out of my room at one point to find Jason on the computer, playing games (go figure) and looked through the fridge to grab a snack. At this point I realized I didn't see or hear Alyx. I knew he was out with Jason earlier because while I was reading my book I had heard him making his cute little noises and playing around in the living room. I panicked, asking Jason where our baby was. He looked at me. "Didn't he go in the bedroom?" I shook my head, "I just came out of there." After a few seconds, he spun around on his chair and there hidden by the huge chair on Jason's lap was Alyx!! Jason grinned and I lightly slugged him in the shoulder. Alyx was safe all along and perfectly happy on his daddy's lap.
My husband is such a punk sometimes. lol. Being a mom sure keeps me on my toes, especially with my two boys. :)
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Sorry, Lo siento, Sumimasen
So I know I haven't written anything for a while and I apologize. I'll try to give a summary of the past weeks. From returning to Japan, to coming back to the States . . . again, to current day. :)
When returning to Jason, I was a giddy school girl and couldn't stop smiling. A few days after I returned, we went to a HUGE aquarium. It was a lot of fun to see all the animals. I saw a crab climbing up a wall, trying to escape, dolphins doing tricks, sharks of different sizes, a turtle that had its mouth fish's fin and wouldn't let go (super entertaining) and a WHALE SHARK!! We also went on one of the world's largest ferris wheel at night. It was quite romantic. :) Later on that week, it was some kind of holiday/vacation for Japan, so the ward had a talent show. They knew that Jason and I loved dancing and that we showed a preview from our first FHE so they asked if we would dance for the talent show. We said yes. So on Saturday, we danced. Doing swing moves rather fast which was fun. We haven't done some serious dancing ever since I got pregnant so that was like a year ago with no dancing. We were totally out of practice and made some mistakes, but the people in our ward loved it and were super impressed!!! That same night we watched fireworks, and let me say, they were fantastic!! I love fireworks and so does Alyx, so it was quite a special treat. A few days later, I had my first hula lesson from one of the sister missionaries. During our vacation week, we traveled more, saw some Japanese temples/Imperial buildings and had some yummy food that we cooked ourselves in a fancy resturaunt. We bought souvenirs for our family and bought a Ukata for me, which is kinda like a summer kimono except it's not made of silk and so it wasn't too pricey. It is so gorgeous, just wish I knew how to do it all up right. lol.
So those are the highlights that I can remember, but just let me include my last Sunday in Japan. Two weeks earlier, I got a call from a lady who asked me if I would teach the RS lesson before I left. I asked what the topic would be on. She said Eternal Marriage, I asked if I could have some time to think about it and would let her know soon. It was just nerves that made me hesitate but in my heart I knew that I needed to give that lesson. So I accepted. I was scared. Like super terrified. I had only given two other RS lessons in my whole entire life and they were in Utah where they spoke the same language as I did. So this was loads scarier!! Only the sister missionaries and one japanese woman there knew English fluently. All the other women knew a little bit or none at all. So giving that lesson was an adventure. But I felt good after I finished.
Returning home was harder than the first time I left. Knowing I wouldn't see Jason for two weeks and a few days instead of the seven before. I know some of you might roll your eyes or think that those two weeks are nothing and you're probably right. But to Jason and I, it would seem a lot longer than that. We've always been together since we met. Only a few days have we not been together, so it is ridiculously hard for us.
Alyx turned six months old not long after we returned so we celebrated his half birthday. That tradition started from my mom's side of the family, her mom started it with her and I am going to carry that on. Alyx had a little bit of chocolate from a cookie that I had put on my finger. Just a little bit for him to taste. He also started sitting up completely by himself. Another thing he started doing was saying ma ma :) It was soo cute!! Trying to teach him to say da da now. When he turned seven months old, he decided to surprise us with another mile stone. My baby boy started crawling!! It's kinda like a caterpillar crawl, but he's still moving and going places. Time to start baby proofing our new place. lol.
Oh ya . . . also it's not news. But my in-laws are pretty hard core BYU. So when the great game of BYU and U of U came upon us, I was alone in a house full of cougars. But I stayed strong and cheered on my team to victory. Utes crushed them. 54 - 10. Sadness. But hey I think they won so much due to Alyx. lol. I dressed him in a red outfit. ;)
When returning to Jason, I was a giddy school girl and couldn't stop smiling. A few days after I returned, we went to a HUGE aquarium. It was a lot of fun to see all the animals. I saw a crab climbing up a wall, trying to escape, dolphins doing tricks, sharks of different sizes, a turtle that had its mouth fish's fin and wouldn't let go (super entertaining) and a WHALE SHARK!! We also went on one of the world's largest ferris wheel at night. It was quite romantic. :) Later on that week, it was some kind of holiday/vacation for Japan, so the ward had a talent show. They knew that Jason and I loved dancing and that we showed a preview from our first FHE so they asked if we would dance for the talent show. We said yes. So on Saturday, we danced. Doing swing moves rather fast which was fun. We haven't done some serious dancing ever since I got pregnant so that was like a year ago with no dancing. We were totally out of practice and made some mistakes, but the people in our ward loved it and were super impressed!!! That same night we watched fireworks, and let me say, they were fantastic!! I love fireworks and so does Alyx, so it was quite a special treat. A few days later, I had my first hula lesson from one of the sister missionaries. During our vacation week, we traveled more, saw some Japanese temples/Imperial buildings and had some yummy food that we cooked ourselves in a fancy resturaunt. We bought souvenirs for our family and bought a Ukata for me, which is kinda like a summer kimono except it's not made of silk and so it wasn't too pricey. It is so gorgeous, just wish I knew how to do it all up right. lol.
So those are the highlights that I can remember, but just let me include my last Sunday in Japan. Two weeks earlier, I got a call from a lady who asked me if I would teach the RS lesson before I left. I asked what the topic would be on. She said Eternal Marriage, I asked if I could have some time to think about it and would let her know soon. It was just nerves that made me hesitate but in my heart I knew that I needed to give that lesson. So I accepted. I was scared. Like super terrified. I had only given two other RS lessons in my whole entire life and they were in Utah where they spoke the same language as I did. So this was loads scarier!! Only the sister missionaries and one japanese woman there knew English fluently. All the other women knew a little bit or none at all. So giving that lesson was an adventure. But I felt good after I finished.
Returning home was harder than the first time I left. Knowing I wouldn't see Jason for two weeks and a few days instead of the seven before. I know some of you might roll your eyes or think that those two weeks are nothing and you're probably right. But to Jason and I, it would seem a lot longer than that. We've always been together since we met. Only a few days have we not been together, so it is ridiculously hard for us.
Alyx turned six months old not long after we returned so we celebrated his half birthday. That tradition started from my mom's side of the family, her mom started it with her and I am going to carry that on. Alyx had a little bit of chocolate from a cookie that I had put on my finger. Just a little bit for him to taste. He also started sitting up completely by himself. Another thing he started doing was saying ma ma :) It was soo cute!! Trying to teach him to say da da now. When he turned seven months old, he decided to surprise us with another mile stone. My baby boy started crawling!! It's kinda like a caterpillar crawl, but he's still moving and going places. Time to start baby proofing our new place. lol.
Oh ya . . . also it's not news. But my in-laws are pretty hard core BYU. So when the great game of BYU and U of U came upon us, I was alone in a house full of cougars. But I stayed strong and cheered on my team to victory. Utes crushed them. 54 - 10. Sadness. But hey I think they won so much due to Alyx. lol. I dressed him in a red outfit. ;)
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Meet Mr. Rollie Pollie
Alyx is 5 months now and he's growing and learning so fast.
A while ago, he would just stay on his back and coo and play and talk, ya know? Or he would do all the same things on his stomach. NOW?!!? He is rolling all over the place. It makes changing diapers an adventure. ;) But that's just the beginning. He is not only rolling over, he is scootchin!! Just a bit here and there to reach his toys. He is on his way to crawling, and i'm thinking it could be any day now that he will surprise me with his new found transportation skills. So many times the past two weeks, he'd stick his cute little butt in the air and his legs and feet would be pushing against the ground. He is soo close! He just needs help with the front part of his body. lol. But for now, I'm ok with him not crawling quite yet.
I mean, when he does start crawling, that means I'm going to have to baby proof EVERYTHING!! :D
A while ago, he would just stay on his back and coo and play and talk, ya know? Or he would do all the same things on his stomach. NOW?!!? He is rolling all over the place. It makes changing diapers an adventure. ;) But that's just the beginning. He is not only rolling over, he is scootchin!! Just a bit here and there to reach his toys. He is on his way to crawling, and i'm thinking it could be any day now that he will surprise me with his new found transportation skills. So many times the past two weeks, he'd stick his cute little butt in the air and his legs and feet would be pushing against the ground. He is soo close! He just needs help with the front part of his body. lol. But for now, I'm ok with him not crawling quite yet.
I mean, when he does start crawling, that means I'm going to have to baby proof EVERYTHING!! :D
Monday, July 25, 2011
Back to the one I love
So, last week, I had to fly back to the States just to work one day. Stupid, but I had to do it. So Alyx and I flew and what was supposed to be five hard days turned into a horrible, too long, seven days. Well it wasn't all horrible.
When I landed into Seattle, it wasn't quite the same as the home in Utah, but I felt so happy to be in the country I love. I can't quite explain it, but there is such a difference and it just felt good to be walking on American soil (you know what I mean). But even when I was surrounded by family members that I missed and haven't seen for almost a month, I left my heart back in Japan. The first night was definitely hard. The first night sleeping alone since I got married. I did miss Jason for the whole entire time, but with each added day the ache got worse.
For those who know our story, Jason and I had spent a lot of time together before we married in such a short time. Through being friends, dating, engagement and for the time being married, we've never EVER gone five days without seeing each other, not even four. But this trip took longer than I thought it would, we went almost seven days without seeing each other.
I was already suffering just from the time difference, every day, only getting 2-4 hours of sleep at night time in Utah and passing out from noon to 4 in the afternoon. But as hard as that was, being away from the one I love was soo much harder. There were times when I just wanted to cry but because of lack of sleep, I couldn't release the pain and loneliness I felt. On Saturday, I tried to catch a flight to Seattle, the plane filled up, I tried a few hours later and I came soo close to getting on the plane, but once again it was full. I couldn't bear it, I lost it and cried. Sunday morning, I prayed and prayed. My family prayed for me. Jason was praying and went on a 12 hour fast for me. We needed each other. A miracle happened and I got on that 1st flight out of there. I know it might not seem like a miracle to some. But for me it was an answer to my prayers and to others. When I landed in Seattle and from there to Osaka. I was grinning and happy to be back in Japan, because that is where my heart had stayed, with Jason. Last night, I had so much happiness and energy, I felt like a little kid again. I actually did jump up and down with excitement several times, not caring if I looked like a crazy American. lol. Which I know, I am pretty crazy. :)
It's amazing what time spent away from your loved one does to you, it was difficult and I hated it, but it made the every day moments seem so much sweeter and the little things just a bit bigger. It's so nice to be back with my wonderful husband, who is for sure my better half. :)
When I landed into Seattle, it wasn't quite the same as the home in Utah, but I felt so happy to be in the country I love. I can't quite explain it, but there is such a difference and it just felt good to be walking on American soil (you know what I mean). But even when I was surrounded by family members that I missed and haven't seen for almost a month, I left my heart back in Japan. The first night was definitely hard. The first night sleeping alone since I got married. I did miss Jason for the whole entire time, but with each added day the ache got worse.
For those who know our story, Jason and I had spent a lot of time together before we married in such a short time. Through being friends, dating, engagement and for the time being married, we've never EVER gone five days without seeing each other, not even four. But this trip took longer than I thought it would, we went almost seven days without seeing each other.
I was already suffering just from the time difference, every day, only getting 2-4 hours of sleep at night time in Utah and passing out from noon to 4 in the afternoon. But as hard as that was, being away from the one I love was soo much harder. There were times when I just wanted to cry but because of lack of sleep, I couldn't release the pain and loneliness I felt. On Saturday, I tried to catch a flight to Seattle, the plane filled up, I tried a few hours later and I came soo close to getting on the plane, but once again it was full. I couldn't bear it, I lost it and cried. Sunday morning, I prayed and prayed. My family prayed for me. Jason was praying and went on a 12 hour fast for me. We needed each other. A miracle happened and I got on that 1st flight out of there. I know it might not seem like a miracle to some. But for me it was an answer to my prayers and to others. When I landed in Seattle and from there to Osaka. I was grinning and happy to be back in Japan, because that is where my heart had stayed, with Jason. Last night, I had so much happiness and energy, I felt like a little kid again. I actually did jump up and down with excitement several times, not caring if I looked like a crazy American. lol. Which I know, I am pretty crazy. :)
It's amazing what time spent away from your loved one does to you, it was difficult and I hated it, but it made the every day moments seem so much sweeter and the little things just a bit bigger. It's so nice to be back with my wonderful husband, who is for sure my better half. :)
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Homesick
It's two days short of three weeks that I've been living here in Japan and I am soo homesick. It's not easy living in another country with a beautiful but strange language and people around you. Being a new mom of a teething almost 5 month old baby doesn't help any. But I'm doing the best that I can. Here are just 20 things that I miss.
My family (the longest I’ve ever gone without seeing them has been a week and a half and we were always an hour away).
My friends.
Any LDS temple (seeing one puts a smile on my face, going inside is wonderful too)
Milk and DELICIOUS choco chip cookies (their milk tastes funny here and for those who know me, I’m addicted to milk, also can’t bake my cc cookies. We don’t have an oven where I live).
My car (love walking, but depending only on legs and trains to get to where I want to go starts to wear on me after a while).
Sleeping on a bed (we sleep on futons).
Fruit and cereal ( both are very expensive here)
NORMAL food (not Asian or seafood)
Being able to read things in English.
Having a babysitter who I can trust (see below)
Going on dates with Jason w/out Alyx (see above)
Having a kitchen all to myself
Utah’s mountains.
The temperature/climate in Utah.
Having more than 1 room belonging to me.
Not being bitten by mosquitoes (I know Utah has them, but the ones in Japan are everywhere and a lot worse).
Understanding what’s being said in church.
Not being a foreigner.
Having all my belongings with me and not just 1 suitcase full of things.
Having a neighbor or a friend that’s a few minutes away from me that can help me or just talk to me.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
From morning till night we walked
Almost like the pioneers!!! Only . . . not quite. Yesterday, Jason and I with our son, Alyx, went on a long sight seeing trip. From 9:30 in the morning till around 7 at night we walked. Ok, well I guess we didn't walk the WHOLE entire trip, but it sure felt like that to me.
We walked to the train station (thank goodness we're not too far from it), took about ten minutes or so. Then we caught three different trains and were on them for about an hour and a half. Then we walked to our first destination, the Horyuji Temple. It was pretty astounding, for being the World's Oldest Wooden Building The entrance fee was ridiculous though, the cost was 1000 yen per adult, so $12 each in American money. It had a museum full of famous Japanese Buddhist artifacts. Three hours after walking and looking around, we left and gratefully took the bus took the bus back to the train station so we could walk to our next site. On the way, we stopped so I could get some ice cream to help renew my energy, haha, and we ran into some mini stores on the side. But the real surprise was the multiple times I saw deer wandering around. When we were nearing the second temple, there were groups of deer surrounding people, begging for food. People were petting them too!!! It was so crazy, but cool too. The Todaiji temple, World's Biggest Wooden Building, took a lot longer to get to and I already felt so exhausted (and gross) from the heat/humidity and the distance we traveled. But I appreciated it more than the first. The cost wasn't too crazy here, 500 yen each, we did end up buying a few things though. :) The temple was really beautiful! Inside had a big buddha that was GIGANTIC!! It was also interesting to see the many different types of people there and how they worshiped him.
Last of all, we visited a natural garden. It didn't have too many flowers in it, but it was a really pretty sight to see. All kinds of trees and plants. Green everywhere! Once in a while we saw some hydrangea, in blue, purple and pink. It was actually a rather small garden, but for the beauty it was amazing. :) It started to rain a little while later and we had a little scare on our way to the train station, but we were all right. We then relaxed on the train ride home and had some McDonald's shaka shaka chicken, which was delicious, before we made spaghetti at home. :) It was a long but amazing day.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
EARTHQUAKE!!! continued . . .
Well thanks to my amazing mom, she told me the earthquake we felt was a 4.7, not big at all. I could've figured it out on my own, but was too lazy and it wasn't too big for me to put more interest in finding out what the size was. So thank you Mom!! :)
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
EARTHQUAKE!!!
Now don't panic, I'm ok. Breathing but ok . . . it really was just a tiny one.
I didn't even really notice it, my head we already pounding from the heat and walking I did today. We were sitting in our bedroom and I was talking to Jason. I had asked him if he wanted to make dinner, we heard a noise from upstairs. He looked up at me from playing on his phone and says, "Earthquake?". Oh my gosh, I had totally thought he was joking and was trying to get out of putting down his phone and making dinner. But then I noticed that I felt some shaking and was wondering if my headache and exhaustion was getting to me. I looked around for things to be moving. Saw our little kitchen mirror moving a bit and then I realized, Jason was right!!! hahaha. So then he was totally hoping that once I realized the earthquake had happened, that I would forget asking about him making dinner. HA! :) Anyway, dunno what the size of it was. But it wasn't too bad. Probably could've noticed it more if my head wasn't pounding.
I didn't even really notice it, my head we already pounding from the heat and walking I did today. We were sitting in our bedroom and I was talking to Jason. I had asked him if he wanted to make dinner, we heard a noise from upstairs. He looked up at me from playing on his phone and says, "Earthquake?". Oh my gosh, I had totally thought he was joking and was trying to get out of putting down his phone and making dinner. But then I noticed that I felt some shaking and was wondering if my headache and exhaustion was getting to me. I looked around for things to be moving. Saw our little kitchen mirror moving a bit and then I realized, Jason was right!!! hahaha. So then he was totally hoping that once I realized the earthquake had happened, that I would forget asking about him making dinner. HA! :) Anyway, dunno what the size of it was. But it wasn't too bad. Probably could've noticed it more if my head wasn't pounding.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Temples
So in church today, the Relief Society president, Meetani (I know it's not the correct spelling but that's how it's pronounced, so just bear with me), gave an excellent lesson. The topic was on Temples. Wonderful lesson, but it kinda made me homesick for the Bountiful temple. Or one that I can see within a few minutes.
We talked about the ordinances and blessings and how special they are. I was asked when I got sealed to my husband and what I had felt and remembered about that time. It was wonderful to think back on that special day, about getting married and sealed to Jason for time and all eternity. I remember the many angels I felt close by. Both past ancestors and future angels that would come into our family.
Japan doesn't have the wonderful blessings to have many temples like Utah has. The closest is the Tokyo temple which is 8 hours away and the ward has to plan a special trip to go together. Not many people have had the blessing to go to the temple has often as I have. It made me wake up a bit to see how blessed I am. Back in Utah, it only takes a few minutes to get to the temple. It made me feel bad to have not visited the temple more often. When these people here in Osaka clearly would love to go if they could.
When I return home, I'm going to try to go more often again, like I used to with Jason. Before we were married, we used to go every other week to do baptisms. Now we're lucky to go even once a month. Of course we have a baby now, but that shouldn't be an excuse. We could get someone to watch Alyx. We just need to make it more of a priority in our lives.
I'm loving the time I'm in Japan with my husband and son, but I can't wait until we go back home. Back to where we can see one or more temples within a day. Back to where there is peace and love.
Sorry, one more thing about today. I said the prayer in Relief Society and got enough courage to bear my testimony (just in Relief Society though), that was pretty hard, but I've made a few friends there. :)
We talked about the ordinances and blessings and how special they are. I was asked when I got sealed to my husband and what I had felt and remembered about that time. It was wonderful to think back on that special day, about getting married and sealed to Jason for time and all eternity. I remember the many angels I felt close by. Both past ancestors and future angels that would come into our family.
Japan doesn't have the wonderful blessings to have many temples like Utah has. The closest is the Tokyo temple which is 8 hours away and the ward has to plan a special trip to go together. Not many people have had the blessing to go to the temple has often as I have. It made me wake up a bit to see how blessed I am. Back in Utah, it only takes a few minutes to get to the temple. It made me feel bad to have not visited the temple more often. When these people here in Osaka clearly would love to go if they could.
When I return home, I'm going to try to go more often again, like I used to with Jason. Before we were married, we used to go every other week to do baptisms. Now we're lucky to go even once a month. Of course we have a baby now, but that shouldn't be an excuse. We could get someone to watch Alyx. We just need to make it more of a priority in our lives.
I'm loving the time I'm in Japan with my husband and son, but I can't wait until we go back home. Back to where we can see one or more temples within a day. Back to where there is peace and love.
Sorry, one more thing about today. I said the prayer in Relief Society and got enough courage to bear my testimony (just in Relief Society though), that was pretty hard, but I've made a few friends there. :)
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Hot + Humid = Sauna!!!!!
So ever since day 1 . . . when we stepped off the plane into Japan, we have commented on the humidity. Jason and I joked that Japan was like a sauna . . . well it really is!!!
We had to walk for three hours around Hirakata to get food and other supplies we needed to survive while in Japan. Let me tell you, even with the clouds blocking the sun most of the time and a nice breeze once in a while that felt soooo good . . . it didn`t help too much of how tired and ridiculously sweaty we were once we got back to our temporary home. That`s just our first walk!! Even while chilling in our building, the only cool room is our `bedroom`. The whole place is hot and you can feel the moisture in the air and rolling down your brow and neck . . . ya well I guess that`s the sweat.
Anyway, I was thinking about weighing myself and seeing the difference of how much weight i`ll lose from when I arrived to Japan until when I head back to home sweet home in the U.S.A. I was kinda wanting to lose the rest of the baby fat and some extra fat around my waist. Guess I found the perfect solution, live in Japan and take a walk every few days.
We had to walk for three hours around Hirakata to get food and other supplies we needed to survive while in Japan. Let me tell you, even with the clouds blocking the sun most of the time and a nice breeze once in a while that felt soooo good . . . it didn`t help too much of how tired and ridiculously sweaty we were once we got back to our temporary home. That`s just our first walk!! Even while chilling in our building, the only cool room is our `bedroom`. The whole place is hot and you can feel the moisture in the air and rolling down your brow and neck . . . ya well I guess that`s the sweat.
Anyway, I was thinking about weighing myself and seeing the difference of how much weight i`ll lose from when I arrived to Japan until when I head back to home sweet home in the U.S.A. I was kinda wanting to lose the rest of the baby fat and some extra fat around my waist. Guess I found the perfect solution, live in Japan and take a walk every few days.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Angel with a helping hand
Soooo . . . . we finally made it . . . . to JAPAN!!! :)
Flew to Seattle first, stayed overnight and the next day we went on a 12 hour flight to Osaka, Japan.
Now the thing I was most worried about flying, was my baby boy. He is generally an angel, hardly fusses unless he has a VERY good reason. Flying to Seattle, he cried during take off and wasn`t very happy, so I gave him a bottle to help calm him down. He eventually fell asleep and slept through the landing part.
The next day, thinking about that super long flight with Alyx made me anxious. But I shouldn`t have worried. The angel that he is, fell asleep half an hour before we took off and slept for a couple of hours. He woke up and we fed him, changed him, and played with him again. After an hour and a half or so, he fell asleep for about another two hours, woke up and we did the routine again. Close to 9 o`clock Utah time, he fell asleep, because that was his bedtime. He then fell asleep for the rest of the flight and yes . . . through the landing a second time.
Honestly, I didn`t expect my angel son to be so fantastic on that flight. With some help from above, he was the angel we knew he already always was.
Of course, once we got to the airport we hung around for an hour to catch our bus. While waiting, once in a while people would come up and talk to Alyx. They completely loved him!! Who couldn`t? After the hour and a half bus ride, we got a ride and met some people from the church we were going to the next day.
By the time we got to our place where we were going to live for the next two months, it was 5 o`clock in the morning, Utah time. We filled our paper work and hit our `beds` and fell asleep. Let me just add one more thing. It is VERY VERY HOT here and VERY HUMID!! haha.
Flew to Seattle first, stayed overnight and the next day we went on a 12 hour flight to Osaka, Japan.
Now the thing I was most worried about flying, was my baby boy. He is generally an angel, hardly fusses unless he has a VERY good reason. Flying to Seattle, he cried during take off and wasn`t very happy, so I gave him a bottle to help calm him down. He eventually fell asleep and slept through the landing part.
The next day, thinking about that super long flight with Alyx made me anxious. But I shouldn`t have worried. The angel that he is, fell asleep half an hour before we took off and slept for a couple of hours. He woke up and we fed him, changed him, and played with him again. After an hour and a half or so, he fell asleep for about another two hours, woke up and we did the routine again. Close to 9 o`clock Utah time, he fell asleep, because that was his bedtime. He then fell asleep for the rest of the flight and yes . . . through the landing a second time.
Honestly, I didn`t expect my angel son to be so fantastic on that flight. With some help from above, he was the angel we knew he already always was.
Of course, once we got to the airport we hung around for an hour to catch our bus. While waiting, once in a while people would come up and talk to Alyx. They completely loved him!! Who couldn`t? After the hour and a half bus ride, we got a ride and met some people from the church we were going to the next day.
By the time we got to our place where we were going to live for the next two months, it was 5 o`clock in the morning, Utah time. We filled our paper work and hit our `beds` and fell asleep. Let me just add one more thing. It is VERY VERY HOT here and VERY HUMID!! haha.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Tummy Time
So I just had a wonderful moment of pure mommy happiness and joy. lol.
I had put my son Alyx on his stomach to give him tummy time. He was talking, and smiling at me and I was just playing with him when he almost rolled over!! The closest he's ever come to rolling over and I got excited and texted Jason telling him so. Not even a minute after that, Alyx just rolled over to his back. I couldn't believe it!! But yet I could, I knew Alyx was a smart and strong little guy. After calming down just a little (that was really hard to do) I called Jason and told him. Then called my mom and Jason's mom and told them the good news.
Anyway, besides bouncing around like the proud parent I am. I had to blog about it. Haha, so ya. This was a more exciting day than I thought it would be. :)
I had put my son Alyx on his stomach to give him tummy time. He was talking, and smiling at me and I was just playing with him when he almost rolled over!! The closest he's ever come to rolling over and I got excited and texted Jason telling him so. Not even a minute after that, Alyx just rolled over to his back. I couldn't believe it!! But yet I could, I knew Alyx was a smart and strong little guy. After calming down just a little (that was really hard to do) I called Jason and told him. Then called my mom and Jason's mom and told them the good news.
Anyway, besides bouncing around like the proud parent I am. I had to blog about it. Haha, so ya. This was a more exciting day than I thought it would be. :)
Busy Busy Busy ME!!
So ever since December . . . or was is January? I have known there was a good chance of me going to Japan, now it's not just a possibility anymore, it's reality. So what am I doing a week and a half away from going to a foreign country? haha. Not packing. I'll be doing that pretty soon though. I have been doing alot of cleaning though. Every room, scrubbing and doing whatever it needs, getting it ready for whoever will take over the place.
My husband has landed a wonderful opportunity to do an internship over there. Teaching little kids English. It'll be cute to see that happen. It's been one of his biggest dreams to go over there and now we will, with our cute baby boy. But I have no idea what is in store for me!! The opposite side of the world, where I don't know the language that well, and far apart from my family and friends. I know a few common phrases and how to say that I don't speak Japanese, but I'm hoping to get by and have some good adventures. I'll try to give some updates while I'm over there, but we'll see how it goes.
Another adventure will be to fly on an airplane. I have flown. It's just been ten or so years and I just had to worry about coloring or talking to my sister for fun. Now, I will be on the longest flight in my life with a four month old baby to take care of. Hopefully he will still keep on being the angel baby that he is while on a plane.
I know it will be memorable and that it will be a good experience. I mean who gets to live in a country like Japan for two months?!?! That doesn't happen to everyone.
My husband has landed a wonderful opportunity to do an internship over there. Teaching little kids English. It'll be cute to see that happen. It's been one of his biggest dreams to go over there and now we will, with our cute baby boy. But I have no idea what is in store for me!! The opposite side of the world, where I don't know the language that well, and far apart from my family and friends. I know a few common phrases and how to say that I don't speak Japanese, but I'm hoping to get by and have some good adventures. I'll try to give some updates while I'm over there, but we'll see how it goes.
Another adventure will be to fly on an airplane. I have flown. It's just been ten or so years and I just had to worry about coloring or talking to my sister for fun. Now, I will be on the longest flight in my life with a four month old baby to take care of. Hopefully he will still keep on being the angel baby that he is while on a plane.
I know it will be memorable and that it will be a good experience. I mean who gets to live in a country like Japan for two months?!?! That doesn't happen to everyone.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
I could've danced all night . . .
I could have danced all night, I could have danced all night, and still have begged for more. I could have spread my wings and done a thousand things I've never done before.
For those of you ladies who are reading this, have you ever had a moment like this? By the way, I love that movie!
I certainly have, several times, with my husband even before we were married. But I had it happen to me once again, and I tried to soak up the moment and capture it with all my mind and heart.
It was a hard day as I was a bit tired from taking care of Alyx, cleaning the house, and waking up early in the morning for no reason. The outcome was an exhausted and not very cheery wife or mother. I walked into the kitchen where Jason was at the moment and I guess he could tell what mood I was in. He took he in his arms and gave me a hug. We just stood there for a few glorious moments and then he started to dance a bit. So with no music we were dancing and dancing. What a wonderful husband I have, to know exactly what I need, to cheer me up and make my day better.
He even changed some extra diapers without my asking. haha. I love him with all my heart.
For those of you ladies who are reading this, have you ever had a moment like this? By the way, I love that movie!
I certainly have, several times, with my husband even before we were married. But I had it happen to me once again, and I tried to soak up the moment and capture it with all my mind and heart.
It was a hard day as I was a bit tired from taking care of Alyx, cleaning the house, and waking up early in the morning for no reason. The outcome was an exhausted and not very cheery wife or mother. I walked into the kitchen where Jason was at the moment and I guess he could tell what mood I was in. He took he in his arms and gave me a hug. We just stood there for a few glorious moments and then he started to dance a bit. So with no music we were dancing and dancing. What a wonderful husband I have, to know exactly what I need, to cheer me up and make my day better.
He even changed some extra diapers without my asking. haha. I love him with all my heart.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Waking up in the night . . . once again
This morning I woke up to the sounds of my baby boy, Alyxander, playing around and talking to himself in his baby language that only he could understand. I was enjoying his cute little noises for almost an hour, despite the time (around 3 to 4 o'clock). While I was waiting for him to either fall asleep or cry, I remembered of another time I was woken up way too early, but for different reasons. (Just to warn those who don't like detailed long stories, this is one of them.) : )
About 12 weeks ago, I was woken up by my son kicking me in my side, (I was still pregnant). I looked at the time and I vaguely remember it being around 4 in the morning. I was trying to get back to sleep and get comfortable again when my lower stomach area got tight. It was a little more intense than Braxton Hicks. But it wasn't too painful that I was worried it'd be the real thing. A little while later it happened again. I breathed and got through it once more. It wasn't until that it happened a few more times that I really started paying attention to how long the pain was lasting and the length of time between. It took over an hour to convince me that what I was going through, wasn't just some practice runs of Braxton Hicks. I was having contractions!
I was trying to think if I should wake Jason up and tell him what was going on. He and his father were supposed to go skiing that day and we had gone up to his parents house that weekend for that purpose. I knew Jason needed a vacation from work, school and me pretty badly so I let him continue to sleep. He woke up sometime later and I decided I needed to tell him, but that he should go about his plans for that day anyway. It was about 6 or so when I told him that we were going to have our baby soon. He didn't freak out or anything, but he wasn't really thinking he should go skiing if I was having contractions. I convinced him that he should go, as the first stage of labor can be pretty long and that we'd have plenty of time to get to the hospital after he came back. He tried to get some more sleep but just ended up staying awake with me while I endured the pain.
I was soon getting hungry and needed to eat something, also didn't want Jason to see me in pain so I left the bedroom to go snack on something. I poured myself some cereal and quickly ate it up. Relaxing on the couch, I was trying to breathe when Mike, Jason's dad came into the room. Surprised that I was awake that early he asked if I was ok and if Jason was awake and getting ready to go. I told him that Jason has been awake for a while and getting some more rest. Also that I have been awake for a few hours and been having contractions but they weren't too close to be worried about. Mike went and woke up Diane, my mother in-law, to have her talk to me to see if I was really having them or not. While I tried calling my mom. With no answer I left her a message telling her to call me back. Diane then came down and talked to me and I told her about the past few hours.
Jason left with his dad an hour later to go skiing. Diane had told Mike that this wasn't false labor and I had spoken to Jason. Telling him not to worry about me, to have fun and be careful. Especially when his baby was going to be on his way. I had eventually gotten through to my mom and repeated the story of that morning again. Still needing to get a few things for my baby boy, my mother and mother in law, as well as my sisters and brother went shopping with me, while I was having contractions. haha. I kept track of the time as the contractions seemed to be getting slightly more painful but not getting any closer. Jason also checked in with me once in a while.
After shopping and with Mike and Jason coming home early, my husband and I started our long 1 hour stretch home. Praying that traffic wouldn't be too bad and that the ride home would be as smooth as possible, because of how sensitive I had become over every tiny bump since that morning. We ended up leaving to go to the hospital around 8. The pain had gotten worse and the contractions were 4 minutes apart. We were almost off the freeway went our car started having major problems and completely died when we got off the exit. I started to panic, I was in labor and knew I couldn't walk to the hospital, even if it was a few blocks away. We tried figuring out what was wrong, but with no luck. We ended up calling Brandon, Jason's brother for help. Before he got to us, a stranger stopped and helped jump start our car, if only to get us to the hospital. By the time our car was running, Brandon had arrived. He and the stranger followed us to the hospital where our car once again died.
I was admitted but through the stress of the car, my contractions were not coming fast enough for me to stay and progress. I was only dilated to a 2. By this time my mother was also with me and we were trying to figure out what to do. One of my kind cousins lived by, one that I had not even met till then, Jennifer was kind enough to let us borrow her car, to get back home and to get around till our car was fixed. So we went back home about 10 in her car and my mom also drove back home. I had gotten a nasty shot to help me sleep, but several hours later, I found myself waking up once again and going to the hospital. We called and let my mom know, she came down again, found out I was at a 3 and we stayed at the hospital for two more hours trying to progress.
Once more we were sent home, this time my mom spent the rest of the night at our place. When Jason, my mom and I had woken up, we were getting through the day and discussing what we should do to speed up my contractions. As much pain as I was in, I was getting tired of having them. So we decided after lunch we would walk around the mall. I wasn't too hungry then and only had a few slices of an apple and was waiting for Jason and my mom to finish. It was around then that I had become aware that I was in so much pain and that the contractions were so close that I could only walk a few feet in between each stopping and starting time. I knew we had to get to the hospital, and I did NOT want to go to a mall and walk around. When we finally got to the hospital for the 3rd time. It took me a little more than 5 minutes to walk across a small parking lot. Once inside I got in a wheelchair. They quickly got me to a room. We later found out I was at an 8!!!
Sadly my doctor wasn't in town that day, so we had a standby doctor who ended up being awful and all business like. But the thing that made it worth it, was that an hour and a half or so later at 3:23 p.m. with the help of my husband, mom and kind nurses. My baby boy was born, without me needing an epidural and he was and still is as perfect as he can be.
About 12 weeks ago, I was woken up by my son kicking me in my side, (I was still pregnant). I looked at the time and I vaguely remember it being around 4 in the morning. I was trying to get back to sleep and get comfortable again when my lower stomach area got tight. It was a little more intense than Braxton Hicks. But it wasn't too painful that I was worried it'd be the real thing. A little while later it happened again. I breathed and got through it once more. It wasn't until that it happened a few more times that I really started paying attention to how long the pain was lasting and the length of time between. It took over an hour to convince me that what I was going through, wasn't just some practice runs of Braxton Hicks. I was having contractions!
I was trying to think if I should wake Jason up and tell him what was going on. He and his father were supposed to go skiing that day and we had gone up to his parents house that weekend for that purpose. I knew Jason needed a vacation from work, school and me pretty badly so I let him continue to sleep. He woke up sometime later and I decided I needed to tell him, but that he should go about his plans for that day anyway. It was about 6 or so when I told him that we were going to have our baby soon. He didn't freak out or anything, but he wasn't really thinking he should go skiing if I was having contractions. I convinced him that he should go, as the first stage of labor can be pretty long and that we'd have plenty of time to get to the hospital after he came back. He tried to get some more sleep but just ended up staying awake with me while I endured the pain.
I was soon getting hungry and needed to eat something, also didn't want Jason to see me in pain so I left the bedroom to go snack on something. I poured myself some cereal and quickly ate it up. Relaxing on the couch, I was trying to breathe when Mike, Jason's dad came into the room. Surprised that I was awake that early he asked if I was ok and if Jason was awake and getting ready to go. I told him that Jason has been awake for a while and getting some more rest. Also that I have been awake for a few hours and been having contractions but they weren't too close to be worried about. Mike went and woke up Diane, my mother in-law, to have her talk to me to see if I was really having them or not. While I tried calling my mom. With no answer I left her a message telling her to call me back. Diane then came down and talked to me and I told her about the past few hours.
Jason left with his dad an hour later to go skiing. Diane had told Mike that this wasn't false labor and I had spoken to Jason. Telling him not to worry about me, to have fun and be careful. Especially when his baby was going to be on his way. I had eventually gotten through to my mom and repeated the story of that morning again. Still needing to get a few things for my baby boy, my mother and mother in law, as well as my sisters and brother went shopping with me, while I was having contractions. haha. I kept track of the time as the contractions seemed to be getting slightly more painful but not getting any closer. Jason also checked in with me once in a while.
After shopping and with Mike and Jason coming home early, my husband and I started our long 1 hour stretch home. Praying that traffic wouldn't be too bad and that the ride home would be as smooth as possible, because of how sensitive I had become over every tiny bump since that morning. We ended up leaving to go to the hospital around 8. The pain had gotten worse and the contractions were 4 minutes apart. We were almost off the freeway went our car started having major problems and completely died when we got off the exit. I started to panic, I was in labor and knew I couldn't walk to the hospital, even if it was a few blocks away. We tried figuring out what was wrong, but with no luck. We ended up calling Brandon, Jason's brother for help. Before he got to us, a stranger stopped and helped jump start our car, if only to get us to the hospital. By the time our car was running, Brandon had arrived. He and the stranger followed us to the hospital where our car once again died.
I was admitted but through the stress of the car, my contractions were not coming fast enough for me to stay and progress. I was only dilated to a 2. By this time my mother was also with me and we were trying to figure out what to do. One of my kind cousins lived by, one that I had not even met till then, Jennifer was kind enough to let us borrow her car, to get back home and to get around till our car was fixed. So we went back home about 10 in her car and my mom also drove back home. I had gotten a nasty shot to help me sleep, but several hours later, I found myself waking up once again and going to the hospital. We called and let my mom know, she came down again, found out I was at a 3 and we stayed at the hospital for two more hours trying to progress.
Once more we were sent home, this time my mom spent the rest of the night at our place. When Jason, my mom and I had woken up, we were getting through the day and discussing what we should do to speed up my contractions. As much pain as I was in, I was getting tired of having them. So we decided after lunch we would walk around the mall. I wasn't too hungry then and only had a few slices of an apple and was waiting for Jason and my mom to finish. It was around then that I had become aware that I was in so much pain and that the contractions were so close that I could only walk a few feet in between each stopping and starting time. I knew we had to get to the hospital, and I did NOT want to go to a mall and walk around. When we finally got to the hospital for the 3rd time. It took me a little more than 5 minutes to walk across a small parking lot. Once inside I got in a wheelchair. They quickly got me to a room. We later found out I was at an 8!!!
Sadly my doctor wasn't in town that day, so we had a standby doctor who ended up being awful and all business like. But the thing that made it worth it, was that an hour and a half or so later at 3:23 p.m. with the help of my husband, mom and kind nurses. My baby boy was born, without me needing an epidural and he was and still is as perfect as he can be.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Turning point . . .
The turning point in my life was on May 17, 2009. The day I met a wonderful RM named Jason Wilber . . .
It was a Sunday that unknowingly had changed my life forever.
That day I was able to participate in a musical number, "I know that My Redeemer lives". But it wasn't just any ordinary number. Several people had gotten together, to sing it in multiple languages all taking their turns. Can't remember all the languages that they were, but I think there was seven or eight. I and three other people sang part of the verse in Spanish. Who knew what difference that would make? :)
After sacrament meeting, I talked to a few friends and had then wandered out, heading to my Sunday school class. But I didn't get too far before I got a tap on the shoulder, I turned around, and came face to face with a very cute blonde stranger.To my surprise he started speaking rapidly in Spanish. Now even though I said I sang in Spanish earlier, doesn't mean I was fluent. I know enough to read and can understand the gist of what is being said. Once in a while I can even hold conversations in Spanish. But as much as I wanted to know what this cute guy was saying, I didn't. I told him that I was sorry and that I wasn't fluent, just knew a little bit. We got to talking and I couldn't help but to like him, he was funny and very cute. I learned he just came home from his mission in Cordoba, Argentina.
After a few minutes, we had to part ways to go to class. Sadly, I didn't really pay attention to what was being said even though I tried to. All that I could think of was the man I just met. Half way through the class I found myself looking around and interesting enough I found the cute RM on the other side of the room sitting all alone!!! I kicked myself for not looking when I came in the class earlier and could have invited him to sit next to me. But now I was thinking of how I could talk to him and say something to him that wouldn't sound dorky. So I waited until class was over and walked over to him. I remembering saying hi again and asking more about his mission. We talked a bit more. As the room started filling up with men, I knew I had to get to Relief Society. Frantic but trying to remain calm, all I knew was that I loved being around this guy. Remembering about a fireside at the Regional center, I asked him if he would like to go that night. His response was that he couldn't, that he had a friend that had flown over from Vermont (where he's originally from) just to be with him. I understood, but that didn't make the rejection any easier. I nodded and started heading out, when he stopped me and asked for my number. Shocked, I gave it to him and couldn't help but feel a little better as I floated off to Relief Society.
He sent me some texts a couple days later, completely in Spanish and I did my best to respond back without using English. We started hanging out, playing volleyball and going to other church activities. Eventually we went on a few dates and became boyfriend and girlfriend. Another couple months later and we were engaged. :) Almost a year after we had met, we were married in the temple for time and all eternity.
That was almost two years ago. Who knew what that day would do for my future?! :)
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