I am doing this post in all pink just for Kayt, our beautiful princess. Kayt's birthday actually began a few days early when Em and Baron surprised her with a princess barbie with brown hair and eyes and a cheerleader dress up costume complete with pom poms. Kayt was in heaven. That night she asked to watch a football game and cheered alone in the room for like 30 minutes. It was hilarious. The only team she really knows is Ohio State. So even though it wasn't them, all we heard was "go O-Hi-O", and "I know you can do it", "run, Run", "go boys". It was hilarious!!! She was waving her pom poms and jumping up and down. I am afraid it is just in her. Scott and I are slowly starting to wrap our mind around the idea of having a dancer and or cheerleader in the family. My sister Sarah says it's okay as long as she catches the ball coming towards her instead of screaming and running away! We'll see. Scott isn't sure how he would feel about his little waif being held 10 feet in the air by other little waifs. I think I have to agree.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Kayt's Turns Three
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAYT!!!!
On her actual birthday she woke to find her ultimate dream fulfilled. In the family room was a new bike!!! She can't ride it but she sure loves to sit on it. All we have heard for two months is, "I want a bike with a helmet so I can ride on the path like daddy." We see people riding bikes all day long because we live right on a bike path. Kayt is ready to be one of them. Hopefully by spring her legs will be long enough to really peddle, otherwise, Scott has a lot of work ahead of him.
Kayt got a helmet from Grandma and Grandpa Smith, plus some fun and desperately needed clothes one item was a princess night gown. I pried it a way to wash it the other day, finally. She got the beloved princess chair with the Little Miss and Mr. books that I loved growing up from Grandma and Grandpa Erickson. I didn't think they existed anymore but my mom found them. We have already read them several times. Ella completed the gifts with some princess bath bubbles that the two have enjoyed immensely already.
Per Kayt's request and some inspiration from my cousin Staci, I took on the task of creating a princess castle birthday cake. I have to say, it turned out much better than I expected. Kayt loved it. We had the missionaries and a couple of friends over to help us eat it all. I am always surprised at how fast three hours of work can be undone. But, it was fun while it lasted right.
Kayt is our bright spot in the day. She is becoming quite the jokester these days. She has so much fun playing with Ella and us. She definitely keeps us on our toes. I can't believe how big she is getting. Sometimes I just watch and get little glimpses of who she is becoming. It is exciting and overwhelming all at once. We are so lucky to have Kayt, our sweet little princess. We love you sweet pea!!
A Visit From Em and Baron
Emily and Baron came out to the third week of November and it was fantastic. I am not sure how relaxing it was for Emily but she got a whirlwind tour of Ohio. The Thursday she was here we just kindof hungout and let the kids sleep (there are three of them between us now). It is a little weird to think that we are so grown up. Hanging out isn't quite what it used to be but it was still great. Emily cut my hair which was great. Visit with Emily and changes to my hair seem to go hand in hand. She likes to do, I am too cheap to have it done professionally so it all works out.
Friday we took the day and went up to Kirtland again. Just as before it was a great experience. There is just such a special feeling there. We went inside the Kirtland temple this time too. It was amazing. For so long I have seen the pictures of it and read the about the revelations and the visitations that occured there and it was amazing to actually be in those rooms. I know that it is not a dedicated building but it is still the first Temple of the Lord, his first house on earth and he appeared there. I was so glad we went. I can't imagine how heartbreaking it was for the saints to leave it behind.
The Community of Christ owns the Temple and several homes of the early church leaders. Our guide pointed out Joseph Smith's home and Oliver Cowdrey's home as well. It was so crazy to think that people just live in them like they are normal homes. I thought to myself, do you realize whose home you are living in? If these walls could talk do you have any idea what they would say? It was a very interesting feeling.
On Saturday, Scott stayed home with Kayt and watched the Ohio, Michigan football games while Em, Ella, Baron and I headed to "Amish Country" about two hours away. It was crazy, the closer we got we started seeing Amish buggies riding down the road. You couldn't help but get excited and stare. I know that is awful but it is just so different than what you are used to seeing. It is another one of those things that you hear exists but is hard to wrap your mind around. We walked through an Amish home and sampled some of their delicious treats. It was so fun.
Kayt had a wonderful time playing with Baron, who is the cutest little thing ever. He is getting so big. That boy has no fear. Em is going to have her handsful. Good thing he has the helmet. I think they may leave it on for awhile even though it won't be required. Without it, he may seriously injure himself!!
It was a great weekend. It is so much fun to have family around. Thanks for coming Em.
Friday we took the day and went up to Kirtland again. Just as before it was a great experience. There is just such a special feeling there. We went inside the Kirtland temple this time too. It was amazing. For so long I have seen the pictures of it and read the about the revelations and the visitations that occured there and it was amazing to actually be in those rooms. I know that it is not a dedicated building but it is still the first Temple of the Lord, his first house on earth and he appeared there. I was so glad we went. I can't imagine how heartbreaking it was for the saints to leave it behind.
The Community of Christ owns the Temple and several homes of the early church leaders. Our guide pointed out Joseph Smith's home and Oliver Cowdrey's home as well. It was so crazy to think that people just live in them like they are normal homes. I thought to myself, do you realize whose home you are living in? If these walls could talk do you have any idea what they would say? It was a very interesting feeling.
On Saturday, Scott stayed home with Kayt and watched the Ohio, Michigan football games while Em, Ella, Baron and I headed to "Amish Country" about two hours away. It was crazy, the closer we got we started seeing Amish buggies riding down the road. You couldn't help but get excited and stare. I know that is awful but it is just so different than what you are used to seeing. It is another one of those things that you hear exists but is hard to wrap your mind around. We walked through an Amish home and sampled some of their delicious treats. It was so fun.
Kayt had a wonderful time playing with Baron, who is the cutest little thing ever. He is getting so big. That boy has no fear. Em is going to have her handsful. Good thing he has the helmet. I think they may leave it on for awhile even though it won't be required. Without it, he may seriously injure himself!!
It was a great weekend. It is so much fun to have family around. Thanks for coming Em.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
An update by the Numbers
1.81
The amount of money I paid for a gallon of gas today. Who would have thought we would ever see the day. It has been at least four years since I paid that for a gallon of gas. Total it cost me $37 to fill my gas tank from completely empty to totally full. I was in shock. I know the economy is not so hot but gas prices are helping free up a little money. Who knows why they sky rocketed so high. I think we all have our own little ideas but I am sure grateful for where they are now!!
63
The high temperature for Columbus, Ohio today. It was such a beautiful day. We went to the park to try and soak up as many rays as we could. The weather is still so nice here. We really did time it just right. We had minimal humidity to deal with when we came, the weather hasn't been colder than 45 degrees during the day and the leaves have been beautiful. Kayt and Ella go running with me in the morning and the other day as we were running down the bike path Kayt said, "look mom, it's raining leaves." And it was. It was so fun.
364
The number of electoral votes Barrack Obama won. My feelings on the presidential election are still mixed. I have to be honest I had little confidence in either option for president this election. I don't think either really has what it takes to steer our country in the right direction at this time. That being said, I think we are in for some major reforms. I don't want to align myself with either party, being a government girl I think the two party system is a diservice to the American people forcing them to make a choice between only two candidates when a third party may have been the best option. But alas, here we are. I voted for John McCain in this election not because I thought he was great but because I am against socialism. Yes, I am calling it what it is...a "redistribution of wealth" is just a more American friendly way of saying it. And, I am sorry but entitlement is not the American dream.
I will be honest in saying that I am a little nervous about the role the government is going to be playing in my life. We are living a time when drastic policies can be made and people will accept them because they are desperate. However, the results of those policies will be long lasting. This is what frightens me about President Obama. FDR, one of the most well known and revered presidents, was in a similar situation. Most of the welfare programs we now have came to be because of him. I am not saying they are bad and don't have their place I am just trying to make my point that once we have them they won't go away. I am very opposed to the majority of Obama's domestic policies. I only hope that the branch of the government that does actually make policy, the legislative, will be prudent and responsible and think long term instead of just right now.
That being said, I watched President Obama's acceptance speech and was moved. It has been awhile since a presidential speech has given me goose bumps, brought a tear to my eye, and made me proud to be an American. He is a great leader who inspires people and brings hope. And, I believe that is what America, maybe even the whole world, needs right now. Something or someone to look to for motivation and inspiration. I think Barrack Obama was the man for that job. Washington needs a little shake up, but I still feel that governments role is to provide opportunity, not grant entiltlement.
Enough on the presidential election!
52
The percentage that Proposition 8 passed by. This has been on my mind almost constantly this last week. I have been trying to come up with a confident answer I can give to people as to why I supported Prop 8 that they would understand without the religious doctrine behind it that I believe. Scott and I have been reading articles from the leaders of our faith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and also from political perspectives. The fact is, my entire feelings on the matter stem from my belief that the traditional family is an institution created and ordained by God for the purposes of brining the greatest short term and eternal happiness to his children on this Earth. Without going deeper into our doctrine than that, I think we have finally nailed down our feelings on the matter that everyone, not just those that share our faith, can understand. So here it is...
It seems so much of the debate is focused on civil vs. religious liberties. I don't see it as such. The real issue is the impact that changing the definition of marriage would have on children and society as a whole. Since the beginning of time and across all cultures, marriage between a man and a woman has been society’s way of creating the next generation and providing the best environment for its success (because it is God's way). The wisdom of ages and modern studies conclude that the best environment for children is a home with a mother and father in a low conflict relationship where both are committed to each other and the success of the child. Marriage in the traditional sense guarantees children the right of being raised in this environment and grants them the greatest chance at leading healthy productive fulfilling lives. I feel children are entitled to this opportunity. Changing the definition of marriage to include that of same sex couples undermines this right because it weakens the institution of marriage. The definition of marriage for some has come to mean society’s stamp of approval on a sexual relationship rather than the institution by which children are brought into this world and provided with an environment for success. Allowing same sex marriage would cement the new definition thus undermining the old, traditional, correct definition. I understand and recognize that not all children are born into an ideal family/marriage. There are many that have succeeded against the odds. I also recognize the feelings and commitment that same sex couples share and respect that. However, the right of a child to have the chance at being born into the ideal environment should be protected above the right of adults to choose something to the contrary. Marriage has been the avenue for men and women to bring children into this world, children to be raised and nurtured and for society to continue to renew itself. I feel it, the institution of marriage, should be reserved for that purpose. Period.
Denying the certificate of marriage to same sex couples only denies them of society’s moral stamp of approval on something the majority of our society disagrees. I support proposition 8 because it protects marriage, children and our society.
18 and 27.5
Ella's height and weight at her six month check up.
18 and 30
Kayt's height and weight at one year old.
25
Kayt's current weight. Ellas going to catch her soon!!
Well there is it, my post by the numbers. I hope it wasn't too political. It is a crazy time that we are living in. It has been interesting to read some of the talks by general authorities and to see the fulfillment of prophecy. Thankgoodness for Propehts and Apostles in our modern day that lead and guide us. I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is God's restored church on the Earth today. I am grateful for it everyday in such a confusing time.
Love to all
The amount of money I paid for a gallon of gas today. Who would have thought we would ever see the day. It has been at least four years since I paid that for a gallon of gas. Total it cost me $37 to fill my gas tank from completely empty to totally full. I was in shock. I know the economy is not so hot but gas prices are helping free up a little money. Who knows why they sky rocketed so high. I think we all have our own little ideas but I am sure grateful for where they are now!!
63
The high temperature for Columbus, Ohio today. It was such a beautiful day. We went to the park to try and soak up as many rays as we could. The weather is still so nice here. We really did time it just right. We had minimal humidity to deal with when we came, the weather hasn't been colder than 45 degrees during the day and the leaves have been beautiful. Kayt and Ella go running with me in the morning and the other day as we were running down the bike path Kayt said, "look mom, it's raining leaves." And it was. It was so fun.
364
The number of electoral votes Barrack Obama won. My feelings on the presidential election are still mixed. I have to be honest I had little confidence in either option for president this election. I don't think either really has what it takes to steer our country in the right direction at this time. That being said, I think we are in for some major reforms. I don't want to align myself with either party, being a government girl I think the two party system is a diservice to the American people forcing them to make a choice between only two candidates when a third party may have been the best option. But alas, here we are. I voted for John McCain in this election not because I thought he was great but because I am against socialism. Yes, I am calling it what it is...a "redistribution of wealth" is just a more American friendly way of saying it. And, I am sorry but entitlement is not the American dream.
I will be honest in saying that I am a little nervous about the role the government is going to be playing in my life. We are living a time when drastic policies can be made and people will accept them because they are desperate. However, the results of those policies will be long lasting. This is what frightens me about President Obama. FDR, one of the most well known and revered presidents, was in a similar situation. Most of the welfare programs we now have came to be because of him. I am not saying they are bad and don't have their place I am just trying to make my point that once we have them they won't go away. I am very opposed to the majority of Obama's domestic policies. I only hope that the branch of the government that does actually make policy, the legislative, will be prudent and responsible and think long term instead of just right now.
That being said, I watched President Obama's acceptance speech and was moved. It has been awhile since a presidential speech has given me goose bumps, brought a tear to my eye, and made me proud to be an American. He is a great leader who inspires people and brings hope. And, I believe that is what America, maybe even the whole world, needs right now. Something or someone to look to for motivation and inspiration. I think Barrack Obama was the man for that job. Washington needs a little shake up, but I still feel that governments role is to provide opportunity, not grant entiltlement.
Enough on the presidential election!
52
The percentage that Proposition 8 passed by. This has been on my mind almost constantly this last week. I have been trying to come up with a confident answer I can give to people as to why I supported Prop 8 that they would understand without the religious doctrine behind it that I believe. Scott and I have been reading articles from the leaders of our faith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and also from political perspectives. The fact is, my entire feelings on the matter stem from my belief that the traditional family is an institution created and ordained by God for the purposes of brining the greatest short term and eternal happiness to his children on this Earth. Without going deeper into our doctrine than that, I think we have finally nailed down our feelings on the matter that everyone, not just those that share our faith, can understand. So here it is...
It seems so much of the debate is focused on civil vs. religious liberties. I don't see it as such. The real issue is the impact that changing the definition of marriage would have on children and society as a whole. Since the beginning of time and across all cultures, marriage between a man and a woman has been society’s way of creating the next generation and providing the best environment for its success (because it is God's way). The wisdom of ages and modern studies conclude that the best environment for children is a home with a mother and father in a low conflict relationship where both are committed to each other and the success of the child. Marriage in the traditional sense guarantees children the right of being raised in this environment and grants them the greatest chance at leading healthy productive fulfilling lives. I feel children are entitled to this opportunity. Changing the definition of marriage to include that of same sex couples undermines this right because it weakens the institution of marriage. The definition of marriage for some has come to mean society’s stamp of approval on a sexual relationship rather than the institution by which children are brought into this world and provided with an environment for success. Allowing same sex marriage would cement the new definition thus undermining the old, traditional, correct definition. I understand and recognize that not all children are born into an ideal family/marriage. There are many that have succeeded against the odds. I also recognize the feelings and commitment that same sex couples share and respect that. However, the right of a child to have the chance at being born into the ideal environment should be protected above the right of adults to choose something to the contrary. Marriage has been the avenue for men and women to bring children into this world, children to be raised and nurtured and for society to continue to renew itself. I feel it, the institution of marriage, should be reserved for that purpose. Period.
Denying the certificate of marriage to same sex couples only denies them of society’s moral stamp of approval on something the majority of our society disagrees. I support proposition 8 because it protects marriage, children and our society.
18 and 27.5
Ella's height and weight at her six month check up.
18 and 30
Kayt's height and weight at one year old.
25
Kayt's current weight. Ellas going to catch her soon!!
Well there is it, my post by the numbers. I hope it wasn't too political. It is a crazy time that we are living in. It has been interesting to read some of the talks by general authorities and to see the fulfillment of prophecy. Thankgoodness for Propehts and Apostles in our modern day that lead and guide us. I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is God's restored church on the Earth today. I am grateful for it everyday in such a confusing time.
Love to all
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
Halloween was a great time this year. We all put on our witch costumes and off we went, Cassi came as a Hawaiian dancer. I took the girls to a highly recommended street in Upper Arlington. I just didn't feel good going to our neighborhood. There are plenty of nice people, it just is very non-traditional and I didn't know the ins and outs of trick or treating here. It is not as simple as in the 'Burg. There are rules for trick or treating. 1. it is only from 6-8 pm. 2. the people sit on their front porch, if they are not there don't knock. We had a great time. The neighborhood we went to was mostly older couples who had great decorations and good candy. They were so nice to Kayt and she loved the goods she brought home. She was a little offended when someone called her and ballerina witch and not a princess witch. But, other than that it was great.
The funniest moment of the night happened when Kayt took a spill after collecting candy from a nice man. As she tried to get up she seriously windy-poofed, is that a nice way of saying it, like ten times. I was about 10 feet away and could hear it. Cassi was laughing so hard she had a hard time helping her back to her feet. Kayt just kept saying, "I'm okay guys, I'm okay". It was hilarious.
All in all a good Halloween!!
A Visit From Cassi
We were so happy to have Cassi come and visit us this past weekend. It was so great to have family around. You don't really know what you're missing out on until you see them. Kayt was so excited, she could hardly keep herself together all day. She even saved her favorite activity to do with Aunt Cassi, making cupcakes!
We had a great time showing Cassi a little bit of our city. We took her to the zoo on Friday. Kayt got to show her the Lion, Elephants, Kimodo Dragon and the Manatee among other favorites. Cassi was a sport hauling her all over the zoo. That night we loaded the girls up and went trick or treating. I was so glad to have Cassi there. It was just one of those things you don't want to do alone (Scott was at a job interview in Portland).
On Saturday we headed to German Village and the Short North districts of Columbus. They were both very fun. Short North is pretty swanky with lots of boutique clothes stores, art galleries and restaurants. It was a great place to people watch. The German Village was my favorite though. The are still has brick streets and the houses are all originals. They are made of the same red bricks and most have the same style about them. We ate at a fun place called Schmidt's which has been around for over 100 years. It was a beautiful day so we took our time just relaxing outside the fudge and candy shop while Kayt played hide and seek. We all got a kick out her dancing while watching her reflection in the red Jimmy parked nearby.
That night Scott, Cassi and I headed to the Columbus Blue Jackets Hockey game. It was a lot of fun. I have never watched professional hockey (the Jackson Hole Moose don't count anymore). It was fun to hear how upset the crowd gets and how excited everyone in when a fight breaks out. The whole crowd stands up and start cheering. It's almost as important as making an actual goal.
1. Kayt checking herself out in the car 2.Ella 3. Kayt playing hide and seek 4. Ella laughing at Kayt
Daddy's Little Buckeyes
O-H-I-Ovs.
Penn State
The Smith family is still trying to recover from a heart breaking loss to Penn State. This game was perhaps the biggest of the season and we were all geared up. ESPN college game day was held just outside the horseshoe stadium. The stadium is only about 2 miles from our house so we ran down to check it out. It was crazy!!!
First off, I think I should say a few words about OHIO state football. It is more than a religion to people out here. You can drive three hours in any given direction and you will see people wearing shirts, hats, socks, jackets you name it on game day! It doesn't matter if you are in a profesional office or sports bar. Two major roads are shut down on home games to make room for all the tail gaters. Parties start at 9 am regardless of when kickoff is, so night games get a little nuts!! Parking lots are lined with RV's (spots go for $1200 a season). Huge jumbotron screens are set up on the streets and the beer and brats are abundent. It is the craziest thing I have ever seen. There is not a single person that is wearing anything other than red or gray, mostly red (oops I mean scarlet!) A single ticket to a home game sold on ebay goes from $250-$500.
On this particular day, it was a night game and we were there 11 hours before kick-off. There was already a crowd of about 400 people gathered. They were all decked out, faces painted, carrying signs and chanting O-H-I-O at the top of their lungs. The grills were just getting fired up and a Bratwurst aroma filled the air. As we stood there shocked more and more people started showing up with their coolers of booz and lawn chairs; they were there for the long haul.
We decided that the stadium was not the place for our family so we had our own little party at home. We all put on our red, and Kayt painted our faces. We even wipped up our favorite supper bowl food. It was a fantastic game until poor Terrell Pryor let his youthfull ambition get the better of him and fumbled the football in the 4th quarter.
Kudos to 80 year old Joe Paterno for beating the Buckeyes, it may be his last chance to go for a championship. We'll get him next year!
Friday, October 24, 2008
A Step Back In Time...
Sarah and Adam Crockett- my running buddies, friends and cider making pals
Ella trying to stay warm. I think the coat is like 20 yrs. old but I love it!!
Kayt picking apples
Sarah's dad and step mom doing the hard workCider Making
A Friend of mine decided to be really ambitious and make cider. A community center down the street has one you could borrow for free! We picked a tree of apples that her neighbor wasn't going to use and went to town. I was lucky because her dad and step mom came for the occasion so my job was mostly to cut apples and watch kids. Not do that actually grinding.
It was super cool. Kayt loved picking the apples and couldn't help sampling some. I think we ended up making like 5 gallons of cider in three hours, start to finish. We enjoyed our labor with a nice pumpkin donut! It was sooo good. I now understand the difference between juice and cider. There really is no comparison, especially fresh cider. It was a fantastic fall activity.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
