Falling off the face of the earth

I can't believe how long it's been since my last post. Time is going by way too fast. Before I know it I'll be planning Sophie's wedding and shipping Phillip off on his mission. I think this blog is a good way for me to sit down and review and reflect on my life and goings on and enjoy them a little bit more, now if I would only just do that....

It's hard to believe it's been a month since I went out to Utah to visit my brand new niece:

That is Livvy Jane Haroldsen. Isn't she cute? I do have a bone to pick with my sister though. She is not allowed to look cuter than me after just giving birth. Some people....

It was a lot of fun being with my mom and dad and sister and her family. She has such a great family. I loved getting to be the fun aunt that plays with them and does their hair and tucks them in and does all the fun things I don't usually get to do when I'm juggling my own kiddos.

I almost felt guilty for leaving my kids for close to a week, but knew they were in good hands. A little frazzled hands after 1 week, but still good ones. It was like an out of body experience getting to board the plane with only my purse as my carry-on instead of the usual arsenal of coloring books, crayons, diapers, wipes, snacks, electronics, etc., etc. I actually got to read the magazine I bought for myself from cover to cover and I did the crossword puzzle. Not only that, but there was no spilled chocolate milk on it, or me throughout the entire flight. Who knew flying could be so enjoyable?

We also celebrated Maddie's birthday earlier this month (December 10). I can't believe she is 9 years old now!

We have a tradition of waking up the birthday boy or girl with a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday to you" as we bring them breakfast in bed. We out did ourselves this year by making a tower of pancakes with a yummy strawberry sauce surrounded by whipped cream. As you can tell, Maddie thoroughly enjoyed it. O.K. so maybe you can't tell by the look on her face in this picture, but trust me.

You gotta love the dollar store.

What can I say about you, Maddie? I love you to pieces. You are a great kid. You have been sweet since the day you were born. You have always been a pretty mellow kid. You have recently become very interested in crafting and more specifically sewing. You love to use my sewing machine and make your own creations. You got a big bed for your birthday this year and you have started to make your bed and clean up your room WITHOUT EVEN BEING ASKED. Why didn't we get you a queen-sized bed when you were 2? You are also very sweet to frequently let your younger brother, Ryan sleep in your room with you. He still doesn't like to sleep in his own room and you are very sweet to let him be with you. We're so lucky to have you in our family! Thanks for being you. We love you, babe!