Moving Yard Sale

This week we held our very first yard sale since being married. After 10 years of marriage and 4 kids we had accumulated quite a bit of stuff. We said goodbye to the armoire we purchased in Vermont. I remember getting it at Kmart and feeling so excited to put it in our new home. It was so new and pretty back then, but the years had not been kind to it and we didn't think it would survive another move. We also said goodbye to a coffee table we were given a desk we purchased at a garage sale. We also sold baby clothes, toys, and random household items. Selling the baby clothes and the armoire was the hardest part for me. Two weeks prior I went through our many bins of baby clothes to sort through them. There was no point in having to haul so many pieces of clothing. I kept the clothing that was sentimental to me, but gave away the clothes that either my kids didn't wear, were outdated, or too worn. I reminisced the times my kids wore those clothes and how thankful we were to have them.

Kelsey wanted to participate in the sale by holding a lemonade stand. I had grand plans to make cinnamon rolls the night before to have them fresh and ready for the next morning....needless to say, that didn't happen. I was frustrated, but through the lulls in the day of having people come by to our sale I made two cookie sheet pans of cinnamon rolls. Kelsey was able to sell all of them (we ate some too). She prepared the lemonade herself by following the directions on the country time lemonade canister. She also cut up lemons for those customers that wanted them. Seeing her get so excited about selling lemonade warmed my heart. Mylee and Lanaea helped here and there too.

At the end of the day, we had sold all of our big ticket items, but had loads of clothes and toys leftover. We put a free sign (that was hard!!) in our yard for about 4 hours and got rid of a couple more things, but ended up taking all of our unsold items to the Salvation Army. Kelsey was sweet to remind me that she was happy other people less fortunate then us were now going to have toys to play with and clothes to wear.

At the end of the day I was beat! We had invited a family of 6 to come over for dinner the next day though so I went back to work and went shopping for food to have an Easter-type dinner we never had the week prior. Blake and the kids were helpful to help me prepare the house and the meal. We had glazed ham, cheesy potatoes, cranberry jello salad, rolls, corn, carrots, and had root beer floats for dessert. We had a wonderful visit and all the work was worth it to be able to serve someone else. She, has just gotten into town the night before serving a member of her family that had health problems. It was nice to be able to give something to her, when she had been serving someone else all week. It was also a good lesson for my kids to see the value in service.

Easter 2014!

As the years have gone by and as we have had more kids, I've become more simplistic in everything I do, holidays included. I've learned that the kids really don't know any difference about the amount of effort, time and money I put into things as long as I at least do something. Blake has been a good coach in helping me realize this which has been good because simplicity is very un-Cami like. Granted there are times, I give in and go all out...did you read my April 2014 General Conference post?...but for the most part I try to remember simplicity makes for a more enjoyable, relaxing and, dare I say, cheaper event.

To further exemplify this point, tonight for FHE, there were no elaborate preparations like getting Easter eggs and filling them with symbols of Christ's last week in his life, no week long activities that mimicked the last days of the Savior's life; nope, we watched a couple of movies online about Jesus's Resurrection on the Mormon Channel and Blake and I talked to our kids about Christ and how important He is to each of us and the implications of what it means that He is resurrected and LIVES!. It was simple, spiritual, and meaningful. This isn't to say that doing the before-mentioned things aren't great, because they are!!! Like I said there are times to make an effort to go big if I feel it's in my family's best interest.

 The Easter Bunny visited us on Saturday evening. The kids enjoyed a little easter egg hunt in the front yard then a large basket with little goodies in it from the dollar store including an inflatable sword, pail and shovel, sidewalk chalk, squirt guns, jump ropes, a hula hoop, and some candy. The kids were happy and excited.

Today we enjoyed a beautiful meeting at church. I had fun getting my girls prettied up for the occasion as did they :). For dinner we had curry and I had a dessert with yogurt, cool whip, raspberries, and a package of vanilla pudding. It was a hit. I am so thankful for my Savior! I Love Him and it's because of Him that I get my family forever.

General Conference April 2014

General Conference has always been important and special to me. In my teenage years it felt like Christmas. I yearned to hear the words of the prophets and was excited to heed their counsel. Since being a mother, it has become difficult to watch and enjoy conference like I used to, especially living outside of Utah where we have to rely on a good internet connection and a competent computer to participate. 

In past conferences, I created a King Benjamin type environment by making a large tent for the kids to sit in to mimic the tents the people of King Benjamin erected when they listened to him speak from his tower near the temple. I also made use of resources online to print off activity packets. But this method was just not working for us. The kids were irreverent, they fought over who would get to sit where in the tent, the tent would fall apart, they got disinterested in their activities, etc. So I endeavored to search the internet and pray to find out what I could do to help my children be more reverent during conference and help them realize the importance and sacredness of the conference. I wanted to help them understand how significant it is to be able to listen to living prophets counsel us in our day.

I came across an idea that proved to be successful with my kids. I found it here . I changed it a little bit to better fit my family. Each of the pockets contain pictures of all the general authorities. When someone is speaking you place them on the podium and can write with a dry erase marker what they talked about. When they are finished speaking, you place them in their chair. There is also a map to place where new temples are announced, a place to put down the statistics of the church and a music section. 

I added a Conference Cash section. The kids could earn conference cash by adhering to eight difference guidelines. They could then use cash to buy conference treats or privileges. I had complied a folder for the three girls with activity packets that matched their learning level. All of them had to take notes during each of the Apostles' talks. Kelsey wrote down what she learned. Mylee pasted and colored pictures with varying topics under the apostles pictures and Lanaea colored a train car with the apostle's name and picture on it found here. 

This method worked so perfectly with my kids!!! They sat and listened through all 4 sessions of general conference....8 hours!! Granted we were not free of arguing and sibling quarrels, but all in all it was pretty fantastic. I was even able to take notes during almost every talk. At the end of conference they kids got a prize if they had taken notes during each of the Apostle's talks. Kelsey got a giant coloring book, Lanaea got a barbie doll and Mylee got a jewelry set. 

 This conference was so great and I feel so uplifted and renewed after listening to the messages. I'm excited for the written talks to come out so I can better study them.

The Completed Board. Mylee is wearing her new clip-on earrings. 

ABC Rodeo Texas Style

We took the kids to the ABC Rodeo this year. Honestly I was a little disappointed. I had high hopes for a true blue Texas Rodeo, but the kids loved it and that's all that mattered. Kayden was the most fun. He kept pointing at the animals and couldn't keep his eyes off the arena. The girls got a kick out of the Mutton Busting. Our tickets came with 5 free bags of popcorn which was a bonus too. Lanaea was being a stinker and wouldn't get in the pictures.

First Day of School 2013!!

This morning started off with a bang. I set the girls alarm for 5:50AM and they were up as soon as it went off, including Lanaea. When I went back to their room, both Kelsey and Mylee were dressed for school, their beds were made and they were brushing their teeth!! They were giggling and talking, so excited for their first day. I plugged in the hot rollers and sent Kelsey to practice the piano. I started on Mylee's hair, finished then did Kelsey's hair. We had scripture study, took our "1st day of school" pictures and got all settled to walk to school. I had to wake poor Kayden up. When we arrived at school I sent Kelsey off to her class with a big hug then walked Mylee to her class. It was hustling and a bustling back in the Kindergarten halls!! Some kids were crying, some parents were cheering as they were leaving. It was all pretty funny. At the girls' school, they feed them breakfast for FREE so I helped Mylee get her breakfast ticket and her food. Today they were serving chocolate or regular milk, apple juice, and a breakfast pizza. Mylee was thrilled!! I didn't get to see Kelsey in her morning routines, but will probably visit tomorrow morning.

My big girl! I can't believe she is going into the 3rd grade!!

Mylee eating her breakfast!

Cute couch right outside her classroom. 

At about 12:30 I got a call from the school nurse, I thought, "Oh no!!" Kelsey has a mosquito bite on her lower leg and it's really been bothering her. She told the nurse she had had it for 2 or 3 weeks. The nurse encouraged me to go see a doctor. I thanked her for her call and told her it had actually only been about 3 or 4 days. I didn't tell her Blake was a doctor. We'll see how it looks in a couple of days. 

After school, Mylee was all smiles. Kelsey was a little grumpy--she doesn't do well on little sleep. Mylee said, "Mom, today was the best day ever!!" That's one of Mylee's favorite sayings. It came from Tangled and she says it every time something exciting and fun happens. 

Lanaea and Kayden hanging out at the girls' school. They are going to be best buddies now.

 

Introducing...Kayden Charles Clifton!!

Kayden Charles Clifton was born on Saturday, June 30th, 2012 at 3:46 PM. He weighed in at 7lbs. 4 oz. and measured in at 19.5 inches long. Kayden was by FAR my easiest delivery, but also my LONGEST labor! I checked into the hospital the morning of at 4 A.M. One of my friends came over to my home to be with my girls. My contractions at that point were pretty painful and because of my experience with Mylee--getting sent home when I was only measuring 2 centimeters only to return back within a matter of hours at a 9 and ready to deliver--I played it safe and went into the hospital. I was disappointed when I was only measuring at a 2, but hoped things would progress quickly being that this was my 4th baby.

It was a blessing to have Kayden on Saturday because Blake was able to be with my during the entire labor and delivery. After I was admitted we settled into our room and tried to get some sleep. I felt comfort in knowing that I wasn't going to have this baby at home and I didn't have to have the anxiety of debating over when I should go to the hospital. After 9 hours of hard labor and not much progress I asked for an epidural. Blake called in one of his buddies that he trusted and knew would do a good job. Unfortunately my epidural only worked on the right side of my body AGAIN!! Yes this was the 3rd time that this happened. After getting the tube in my back re-adjusted and getting a ton more medication, my left side finally numbed up. I was disappointed in how numb I was, I was hoping to feel something, but I do have to admit that it was nice to not be in pain anymore and get some much needed rest! After about an hour, my doctor came in and decided to put me on pitocin (spelling? my hubby is a Dr. NOT me!!) to help me dilate. Two hours later I was completely dilated and ready to deliver--at this point we had clocked in about 12 hours at the hospital!! I was STARVING and hoping that Kayden would come soon so I could at least eat something! My nurse had come in to check on me and I had a feeling things had progressed so I had her check me and sure enough the baby's head was right there. My doctor was quickly called in and a team of nurses got everything set up. Once it was time to push I only had to push about 4 times and he was out. No drama, just peaceful and beautiful. I actually got emotional this time. I was in awe at the miracle of life! Blake was so sweet and with me the entire time. My doctor was wonderful as were my nurses.



Blake holding his son for the first time.

Girls helping to bath Kayden for the first time

After a couple of hours Blake went to pick up the girls. They were all SO excited to meet their new baby brother. Lanaea looked at him and said, "Ahhh...he loves me..." She continues to say this. It makes my heart melt. Mylee was a little reluctant and distracted by all the noises. At one point Kayden was crying and she covered her ears...it was a little much for her. But we were eventually able to get her to hold Kayden. The girls also got to help the nurse give him his first bath. I love the set up in this hospital because they were able to do everything right in the room I delivered in. They even gave Blake and I an hour to ourselves after Kayden was born to have some one-on-one time which I really appreciated and treasured. The hospital had just completed a new wing to the hospital which included a new labor and delivery and postpartum facilities. So the facilities were top notch and brand new. Their only hiccup, which actually was really funny--were their faucets. They were the faucets that turn on when your hand goes over a sensor. Well the faucet in our room would go on an off randomly unless something was covering the sensor. I didn't know what it was at first...but finally figured it out when my doctor was checking on me one time and the faucet was going on and off like crazy. We all had a good laugh. So much for technology and trying to make things easier :).

All settled in my room checking my son out. All toes and fingers accounted for!

Blake took the girls home that evening and I was transferred to the postpartum floor. I had no interruptions from nurses the entire night...it was WONDERFUL!! Usually they are in and out needing this and that, but they left me alone and I was so grateful. My room had a queen sized bed and felt very comfortable. The only problem was when I took a shower the next morning I didn't realize until I was finished showering that my room wasn't stocked with towels!! Opps! Blake came with the girls the next evening and we went home as a family. Before we all left the hospital I was changing Kayden's diaper, and of course my girls were curious for obvious reasons, and as I was changing him he peed all over his face and Lanaea's face. Lanaea yelled eww and I laughed and laughed. It was a good introduction to the many discussions we have had on the difference between boys and girls :). Blake had to return to work the next day so I opted to stay another day at the hospital to take care of my girls hoping I would get some help from friends to watch my girls during the day--Luckily I did.

The girls lovin' on their brother before we take him home. Notice the queen sized bed!!

At home in his own bed...sorry Kayden we only had girly sheets:)

Lanaea: Our Singing Diva

I have said this over and over again, but truly, Lanaea is such a JOY!! She constantly makes us laugh and is so enjoyable. She loves to talk and will talk your ear off if you let her. You may not understand half of what she says, but she talks to you as though she knows exactly what she is saying. As we have been letting Kelsey perform for us at Family Home Evening, we have given Mylee and Lanaea the chance to show what they have accomplished in the week too. This particular night Lanaea showed us her singing talent. She went on and on and on!! It was SOOO adorable!! On a side note, please excuse my un-clothed 2 year old. This is her choice of attire for most days.

June 2012

June has been a really busy month. We've been busy with baby preparations, swim lessons, gymnastics, soccer, residency graduation for the outgoing residents, and Blake's triathalon that was held yesterday at a near-by lake. A sweet friend of mine threw a baby shower for me. It was such a fun event and there was a good turn-out. My friend had worked so hard to make it special and nice. She had prepared all the food by herself and there was A LOT of it!! I couldn't believe all of her efforts. I mostly got boy clothes which is exactly what I needed. There were a couple of sizes I needed so I exchanged some clothes for different sizes. Our little boy is all ready to go now--I can't wait to meet him.

 We signed Kelsey and Mylee up for swim lessons this year through Texas Tech University. Kelsey improved significantly--from not swimming at at to swimming all by herself!! Swim was every day for 2 weeks and my girls looked forward to it every day. I couldn't say that I did with a 9 month belly and 2 year-old in tow, but we survivied and it was a good experience.

 Mylee loved her class and her teacher was so cute with the kids. I realized I should have signed her up for the class above her because there were kids still in swim diapers in her class!!! What?! She enjoyed it though and it was a good first experience at swim lessons.

 Kelsey swimming with her teacher.

 Kelsey jumping off the diving board.

 My little side-kick at the pool. She learned during the two weeks to be content her these lounge chairs--hallelujah!!

 Mylee and her class going on an adverture

 Every year the Orthopaedic Department hold events surrounding graduation. On Friday the 3rd, 4th, and outgoing residents present research they have been working on throughout the year. Blake did a good job at presenting his. That evening the department holds a nice formal dinner along with a program honoring the outgoing residents. They present awards, share words of wisdom, etc. The dinner was delicious!! I look foward to this event every year--it's not every day I get treated to such a menu!! The next morning they have a golf tornament at a nice country club in town. That is followed by a family picnic at an attending's house. My girls look forward to swimming in their pool every year. It helped that we had just finished swim lessons too.

 Lanaea would paddle around the pool like the picture above. It was so cute! She is the least afraid of the water of all my girls. She is fear-less like her daddy.

 Yesterday, Blake competed in a triathalon for the sprint distance--500 meter swim, 17 mile bike ride, 5K run. He was dissapointed he hadn't had more time to train--he only swam once!! But he did awesome and it was so fun to go as a family and support Blake in an activity that promotes a healthy lifestyle. We arrived extra early to see the kids' race. Kelsey got excited about the possibility of doing it next year. It's always fun to feel the energy and excitement at events like these. I think it's good expose our girls to events like these to help encourage them to have a healthy lifestyle. I would like to compete next year.

 This is what it looked like at the start of the swim.

 Blake transitioning from the swim to bike.

 While Blake was racing Kelsey and Mylee played in the lake. It was a great sandy beach!

 Lanaea hung out with me in the shade and waited for daddy at the different transitions.

Blake at the finish line!

May 2012

Kelsey finished 1st Grade in May and we mostly continued on with our normal routine. I continued to work on my preschool curriculum--which is one reason this blog has been neglected so much--Blake continued to work like normal except for one week that he took for vacation. Before we had talked about going to Pine, Arizona to stay at Blake's grandparents' cabin, but we didn't think it was the best idea with me being so close to my due date. Instead we stayed home and worked on projects--yea!! I was actually really excited about it. We got the girls' dresser that we acquired for free in Vermont from their dorms when they were remolding painted white. We also got Lanaea's trundle painted white. We varnished the baby's changing table that I had sanded down. Blake got a lot done on a new rocking horse for our girls. We worked on little projects here and there around the house and enjoyed multiple movie rentals from redbox that week.  

 For "K" week Mylee and I went to the dollar store to purchase a kite to fly. FYI!!! don't buy kites from the dollar store. We started to walk to the park at Kelsey's school, but ended up having to turn around because the wind tore part of the kite, so we went back home to fix it. This time I drove over and just as I got the kite situated to fly it broke again. We never successfuly flew it. We ended up leaving the park with all my girls in tears. It was sort of funny and frustrating all at the same time. The next day we went back to the dollar store to return the kite--luckily they let us and we got beads instead which entertained all my girls for hours!!

 Enjoying the Texas heat!!

 This is Kelsey at her rewards ceremony. She received an award for reading--which didn't surprise me at all. She's read 10 of the Box Car Children series books and she is currently reading Little House on the Praire. She's a champ at reading and she'll even set her alarm to get up early to read! She has determination like her Daddy.

 During one Saturday we were all working in the yard, trying to get things cleaned up. At one point, Blake was working on something in the garage and told Lanaea that she had to stay in the backyard. After not hearing from her for a while, he went back to check on her and this is what he found :)! She had fallen asleep by the backyard gate next to the garage where Blake was working. Sweet little girl!!

 This is the present Kelsey and I made for her teacher. "#2 pencils for a #1 teacher" and on the back we had her teacher's name, "Mrs. Frick". It turned out really cute!!

 Kelsey on her last day of 1st grade!

 Kelsey with her teacher Mrs. Frick.

 For the past couple of years our stake holds a food drive for our local food bank. To kick off the event our stake hosts a 5K and 1 mile race for the community. Admission is free. Kelsey, Mylee, Lanaea and I did the 1 mile run (well we walked--I was 8 months prego!!). Blake ran in the 5K. It was a great event and there was a huge turn-out. One of the local grocery stores even donated food to feed us breakfast!

 Blake at the finish line.

 Kelsey got her face painted at the 5K run.

 My little reader!! This is a picture I snuck of her through our kitchen window.

As part of the preschool curriculum I have been working on, I put together a Pre-K busy bag exchange with women in our stake and local community. There were 20 women that participated so we all received 20 preschool kits to help our preschooler learn. I was so excited about this and I was so pleased with the kits everyone shared. This is something else I will share the details about on my learning blog: learningtoletter.blogspot.com