kiss

The Red Flame and I innocently were caught kissing in front of the girls (Sofia mainly) who at once became obsessed and each night when Papa gets home, "requests" in her most demanding voice, "kiss on the lips! kiss on the lips!" which we of course comply.

True to form with the many stories of Disney's princesses in which a kiss automatically means marriage and happily ever after. I was not susprised as we watched a movie a few nights later, when the 2 main characters kissed that my sweets asked, Mama, they kissed! Yes Maka they did (with a smile). Mama? Yes sweets. They are married now huh?

Ahh Sofia. If only it were that simple.

Christmas Eve

The girls are now sleeping, waiting for Santa to come and hoping that they will see him...
The Red Flame and I are just relishing; relishing our first Christmas in our new home, relishing the tradition of watching (at least once) "The Christmas Story" as everyone knows it has just started the 24 hour roll of playing the movie. Love it.
The snow has stayed on the ground and I love to see everything frosted over in white.

It could be just another eve before just another day, but this one is special and we are loving every minute of it. We know all too well it will soon pass away and the calendar restarted for another year. On that note~

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

Belated meeting

Sofia got a hold of her Great Grandma's picture and I thought it was appropriate that they meet since I never got to see them together. So fun to see the resemblance between the two and with moisture filled eyes was touched that Sofia was introduced to someone who meant so much to me. Two beautiful people. Two very different times.

Christmas Cards

Every year I think that I am actually going to get the Family pictures, Christmas Cards and the "year in review" out to friends and family. And...each year it seems to sneak up on me WAY to fast and I am scrambling at the last minute. ARGH! Well Josh (my cousin) was grateful enough to take our family pic in front of thier mantle and fireplace so we could at least get a pic out into the world with our cards.

Here are some of my favorites:

What's your thing?

Last night we were greeted by a small tin outside our door with a folder. It had instructions (in a small poem) that told us to open the gift, and then pass a new gift along to someone else. You were to post one of the papers (in the folder) somewhere on your door so others knew that you had already been "hit". It was so great! It really got me in the Christmas Spirit.

We may have cheated a bit by re-gifting another item, but we got out the tin and folder right away and did the knock-and-run thing. I guess we have missed out the last few years living in the apartment before moving into our home, because in the 4 years we have been in this area, this is the first we have been chosen to participate.

It was a good teaching opportunity for Sofia and although she is only 3- you better believe she gets the whole "present" thing. She did not want to give up the tin, but we talked about it and by the end she was pretty darn excited herself.
Tonight were going to deliver our own "knock-and-run" gifts to others. I cannot wait to see how the girls will re-act...

So. "What's your thing?" What do you do to make CHRISTmas more about him and less about everything else?

NOW I know...

So The Red Flame and I celebrated 4 years of marriage yesterday. Yep. I know. 4 years may not seem like alot to those of you who have been married in the double digits for some time now, but for us? Each year we consider a milestone. We did not have the typical "boy meets girl" story, we certainly did not have the typical engagement. But we made it. Were still here. The both of us. And unfortunately, for some that is not typical these days as well.

I had to work last night and so our "Happy Anniversary" was over the phone in the morning and then again while we crossed paths that night- he coming home from work to go over the mail, what was for dinner, the girls; naps? baths? feeding time? and me heading out to work again-that was it. No fancy dinner, no fancy presents, just relishing in the fact that here we are. Were still here. And we have 2 beautiful girls to show for it. And it was great.

NOW I know what my parents may have had to do to make it work when times were hard. NOW I know (or am beginning to understand) what it takes to be a parent and why not everyone is ready for it when it comes along.
NOW I know that you can have "that person" that no matter what, you know he/she will be there. Through the thick and thin, highs and lows and all the in betweens.
NOW I know why I waited as long as I did to get married. There was so much life to live and places to see which opportunity would not have been possible with kids. For me? I have No regrets.
NOW I know why I work hard, everyday, to keep the love alive. To stay true to my values and beliefs. Our girls look at us- I want them to have the example I did as a kid.

My Russian Red Flame, I know others may have been a bit iffy about me bringing you home, but I knew. And they knew the minute they met you. You balance me out. You keep patient with me. You love me. Happy Anniversary Red Flame. Thank you for asking me to marry you in Russia on New Year's with all the "kids" help. It was not typical... but neither are we.

It is done.

Day 30

I would not be being completely honest if I did not say that today, I am thankful to be done. NOT about thinking of all I have to be thankful for, but again, I just cannot muster the creative juices enough to drop a story every day on the blog. Besides the fact that the 2 jobs, 2 kids and the Red Flame keep me busy.

In all seriousness, today I am thankful for a very understanding Russian whom I claim as my husband. I had the best trip planned to take him to Vegas for our 4th wedding anniversary on Dec. 10. He has always wanted to stay at the Luxor hotel and I have never been able to find it for less than $150 bucks a night. Well I happened to check at a time when they were offering a deal. $50!! I was shocked! We could actually do this! I planned ahead, called 3 jobs to get them all off, arranged for the girls to be taken care of and I was on my way of susprising him!!! He had'nt a clue....until.
WELL. Life happened. Things started to unravel and it ended up that I told him the plans. Then things unraveled a bit more and just tonight we talked and decided that we could not justify a trip to Vegas, with things being as tight as they are. Sacrifice we did. This is one of the reasons I love him so. He was not at all mad, not at all disappointed (well maybe a little bit) and he took it in stride. I was so much more sad than he!!
There is more than one reason why I married the Red Flame...his ability to let things "roll" is one of those reasons. There will be no Viva Las Vegas for us this year. And tomorrow will still come around regardless. He reminded me of this. And it was exactly what I needed.

I am so thankful for him...again.

ZZZZZZ

Day 29

Well I am almost done with my week of Thanksgiving and I really think it has been a wonderful experience for me. There are so many things that surround me that I am thankful for and putting them down make me think LESS of the problems that we may be facing and MORE about the wonderful things that surround us.

Today I really needed a nap. So although I am thankful for the nap- it sure included the whole family. Today I am thankful for the Red Flame for letting me take one, Maka for letting me know she tried her best to reach the potty in time but needed help with her onesie so she "leaked a little bit" and all her comments that make me smile. And our sweet Ella who when I woke up ran to me with hugs and "mama! Mama!" and who always makes me feel loved. We might be a bit "off" in some people's dictionaries, but it's us. And I would not change a thing. (well I would add a few more to the mix...but all in due time).

Here is to tomorrow, Day 30 of writing about why I am thankful. Cheers.

Turkey coma and Black Friday regret

Day 26-28

Yes, I fell behind once again and am trying to remember the last few days. I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We went to our Aunt and Uncles house with cousins, dogs and plenty of food to go around. We ate too much, talked alot and had a great time.

Yesterday was a mourning day for me of sorts. It was the first time in as long as I can remember that I did not buy the newspapers and strategically plan my attack of stores as I went to find the "deals and steals" that only Black Friday can bring. This year? My alarm was not set, I did not get up and I refused to watch TV or the radio until the 1pm hour was over as to not hear how everyone else was finding stuff. It was a sad day indeed. Alas, when the pocketbook is empty, even the inticings of Black Friday could not make me go out...even for window shopping.

So. I am thankful for resistance, persistance and patience the Red Flame had with me as I complained (only once to get it out of my system) that I was in some way, shape or form, missing out on the fun.

The way we both decided to look at it?...There's always next year!

2 fer

Wow. The month is almost over and here I am a day behind! Whoops. So here is a 2fer...well since I forgot and am running out of (no! NOT things I am thankful for) the creative way to say them! I only have so much in me...Im not my Dad!

Days 24-25

I met the guy 11 years ago and here we are now married almost 4 years with 2 beautiful girls. I have watched him work hard, study hard, and play hard and doing it 99% of the time (I mean, come on! No one is PERFECT- right?) with a great attitude. These last few weeks as I have put in some extra time at the office, he has been home with the girls and he has done a fabulous job. He has fed, changed, clothed and cleaned while I have been gone. A regular Mr. Mom! He may not like me making reference to his "father naturing" side, but it is true. The man has stepped up...and I have noticed.

I know there were more than a few people that were not sure about this whole marrying a Russian thing. But in my opinion, Artyom has won over each and every one of them. I could make a list of all the things that make him so priceless to me and our family, but honestly? Alot of those things are inside jokes, memories of our family and things that will not mean much to the average reader. It is enough for me to let everyone know~

I am, and always will be thankful for my Russian Red Flame, Artyom.

Frumpy to Fabulous

Maybe guys out there can relate, but girls- you KNOW what I'm talkin about. Especially those with short hair. Ever since I chopped my locks right before Ella was born I have had to go and visit the Salon alot more than usual to make sure I do not become more of a frumpy mom than what I am usually.

So when Seija at my work told me to come and visit her at her school of Hair Design, I could hardly contain my excitement. $20 (including tip) later, I walked out to show off my hair to the patrons of Shopko (there was not much to do...)as I bought some red plates on clearance to help out my Christmas decorating just waiting to blossom in our home the end of this week.

How I knew I did good? Walking in the door and sweet Sofia stroking my hair as she said, "Mama, you look beautiful. You look just like me!" (My hair was straight which is a salon perk). I felt justified and am now rejuvenated for the next 6-8 weeks.

Seija and the talents of Taylor Andrews School of Hair- I am thankful for you.

KSL

Day 21

Who knew three, little letters would make such an impact on my life. Too bad I did not know about this site so many years ago when I moved here. Let's just say, KSL and I are very good friends and it is one of my "favorites" and often visited sites.

It was here that I found an up an coming photographer, who will be taking our family's pictures in a few days....for FREE! I was so excited to find her on KSL and be able to get our family pictures done for Christmas. I was kinda stressing about how we would get them done since our "other photographer" has been a bit pre-occupied lately. Besides the fact that finances are TIGHT right now.

Just another way that we have been really looked after these last few months and even though things are tough- we have found ways to make it work. This time a way to get some much needed memories of our family.

Because I am not sure if she would like her name to be known yet, Ill just give the props to KSL I of course will post the pictures when we get them back and then you better believe PROPS will be given.

KSL, I am thankful for you.

Arizona Nat

I got off the phone tonight after an hour and 45 min call with one of my friends...whom I have never actually seen before. And no, I do not mean in a round about way. I mean I have never really set eyes on her. However, tonight was a conversation that I needed to hear.

We spoke about a ton of things, but what struck me most was when our conversation turned to trials. She spoke of her particular trial and that although she had accepted it, she has to continue to accept it sometimes day to day. That stuck me. It made me feel that I was not alone in the trials that I face and yes, as she had said. Even though I "accept" them, it does not mean that I am immune to thier side effects.

So Nat, this post is for you. Yes, we have the Grand Canyon (back) on our Martushev Family Goals for 2010 and I hope this year (not as in the 2 years past...but who's counting?) we will actually make it. I cannot wait to meet you!

Tonight, I am thankful for Natalie.

Counting sheep

Day 20

There are alot of things that I take my Dad's advice on...buying a nice mattress (even if it does take a few extra dollars) was NOT one of those things, that is until about 6 months ago.

I finally bit the bullet and a well planned out Father's Day present turned into our Fathers Day, Mothers day and our combined Birthday presents made one score of a bed. I did my homework, called around, shopped around and found a good deal through the site that with the three combined letters can be found a plethora of deals. KSL. I scored a great bed frame at Pier 1 (King size for under $50 bucks!) our mattress was a wee bit more than that, HOWEVER. This baby was worth every penny!

I plan on having a tete a tete with my mattress tonight and sleeping as long as as I can continue counting sheep.

This lovely Friday evening, I am very thankful for my mattress.

It's only sleep...

Day 19
Yep. Behind again. I know. I know. Time just goes on without me whether I would like it to or not. So today (from yesterday) I am a bit sleepy. My girlfriends decided I needed some entertainment and took me to the midnight showing of this-

I must admit that Yes, I have read the books. Yes, I was one of "those people" who went to the first showing. Not because I could not wait a day or two for the hype to subside, but when a girl needs a girls night out, she needs a girls night out. Yes, I did like the movie. No. I am not one of the obsessed, dressed like a vampire to the premire or t-shirt wearing proclaiming thier desired "team" movie goers. But it sure was nice to "unplug" for a few hours. Just curious...which team are you? (hehe) Dad, just read on. You will have entirely NO clue as to what I am talking about.

I am a bit tired, but the Red Flame promised he would let me sleep in tomorrow...Now if someone would just let my girls know the plan...

Today I am thankful for girlfriends who know when you need a moment...ya know?

Pink...my new favorite color

Day 18


Yep. A day behind...The gumboo that hit me on Sunday? Has now made its way to other members of the family, mainly the Red Flame and Sofia. Poor kid. She is miserable and does not want to eat a thing, drinks just a bit and is throwing up (from both ends). The Red Flame got a susprise when she crawled into bed to say she did not feel good. He figured she just needed to cuddle, so he put her on his chest. Next thing he knew she had puked all over him! (hehehe). I laugh because it is usually the MOM who gets puked on in our house. He earned his stripes in my book and really took one for the team. (I still had to clean up post-puke linens, but my experience was not half as bad as his!)


So today, Pink just may be my new favorite color. The Red Flame had his dose of it and Sofia was soon to follow. I am behind on my housework and dishes, but when Maka asked, "Mama, I hold you..." Well. Dishes can wait.


Pepto Bismol, you little pink bottle of wonder- I am thankful for you.

Who woulda thought

I came home a bit later than usual today and the house was a bit darker...maybe it was just outside that was dark. Anyway. The house had no lights on that I could see inside and for a second I thought that the Red Flame may had taken the girls out somewhere to romp around.
I was talking to my Dad as I walked in the door and had not muttered much more than a "mm-hmm" with an agreeing tone to whatever it was we were talking about and an un-orchestrated turmoil of noise erupted from our bedroom. All this from MY voice?!

I walked in to see this adorable, little thing standing upright, arms outstretched and yelling the name that unless you have been called it, will mean nothing to you. But the minute you hear it from your child's mouth, your life is never the same. "Mama! "Mama!"

I scooped her up in my arms and I am still not sure if it was by my will or her own, but she was not let down for at least an hour....somehow my day did not seem so long as I remembered it following that hour.

I am thankful for you my sweet Ella Diane.

Both then....


And now...

Here comes the sun

Day 16-17

Yeah. The health came back a bit delayed but today I feel more like myself. And I am thankful for that...does that take care of Day 16? (kinda a cop- out huh? well tuff.)

Here goes Day 17

Due to unforeseen circumstances (which could be bad, but I have chosen to view as "challenging" instead) I have been able to re-aquaint myself with mornings. I am able to go into work and get a few extra hours in as I do not have the girls with me for the next little while.
I used to wake up before dawn...my old roommate/now SIL is still amazed at how early I would rise and be out of the house-and I really did not mind it. I am much more a morning person than trying to stay up till the wee hours of the night. There is something to be said about seein the sun rise, being one of the first cars on the freeway, and getting those few precious moments to yourself before the craziness begins.
Don't get me wrong. I miss the girls, I miss being able to bring them down snacks, tuck them in for naps, and eat lunch with them. But they are in good hands with the Red Flame at home with them and morning and I are fastly becoming good friends again.

This morning, I am thankful for you.

The simple life

Day 15

This one was easy to think of...The days when I am feeling good, not too tired, not too stressed. My stomach is not hurting, I am able to keep things down. Ahh. Those are the days....

And this is NOT one of them.

So as you can imagine. I am thankful for health...which I hope will be soon coming, like tomorrow would be nice.

Peas in a pod

Day 14

It is just the way it is...It does not happen very often, but when it does you smile and say that someone just knew what they were doing when they put you together. It is hard enough to find someone who, for whatever reason, you just get along... but when you are married? The stakes are upped quite a bit. It is NOT easy to find couples when both spouses are completely compatible with. But, lucky us. We found them.

When I met Paul and Guzel it did not take more than a few minutes to know, really know that we were going to get along. They are in a word, Fabulous. Guzel is from the same Russian city that Artyom is from and we found it was more than just that, that we had in common.

They love our girls, they love and support us and today, I am thankful for them and the many other couples that we find are just peas in a pod.

Paul and Guzel, I am thankful for you.

One stich, two stitch, three stich four...

Day 13

I remember it well, a few years ago, the Black Friday and shopping extravaganza of those looking for a deal. The store that some people have a stigma with was having a sale on one of these babies and at a steal I might add- I mean they were practically GIVING it away.
I convinced the Red Flame that I desperately needed one and would use it till the cows came home. Unfortunately, with the cave of an apartment we were in and not enough room to even breathe, it was put away and soon gathered dust. Now fast forward to today.

I am not letting this Friday the 13th get the best of me. I am at the moment in the middle of 2 revamped sweater dresses for Sofia, 2 towel dresses with matching wrist clutches for both girls, and a slew of baby things that may or may not make it to the gazillion of my friends who are all expecting little ones...I may just have to keep some for myself, or completely plead the 5th if they do not turn out the way I would like.

So you can imagine what brings me my joy (and the Red Flame who never thought this moment would come) this Friday~

Today, I am thankful for my sewing machine.
As a side note- this is NOT the model I have...when you think of my model, think of pizza- think of my sewing machine as a plain cheese. It may not have all the yummy, fun toppings... but it does the trick.

From the mouths of babes...

Day 12

So. You know at the end of the movie, "Notting Hill" (seriously might be one of my top ten) when Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant are making thier way on the red carpet and the (cue song) "She" comes on? I loose it every time! I don't know who sings it, I would not even be able to tell you all the lyrics, but I had the same feeling today when she said this...

she: Mama, wheres Papa?
me: In his car baby.
she: in her car?
me: no Maka, papa is a boy. HE is in HIS car.
she: no mama, papa is not a boy.
me: ok. is he a man?
she: no
me: ok. is he a girl?
she: no
me: Ok. Soinka. What is papa?
she: ...he is a giant.

She- who made me a mother for the first time.
She- who will come up with arms wrapped around my waist, neck, whatever she can grab and say, I miss you too mama...I love you too mama.
She- the reason I want to make this world a cleaner, safer and happier place.
She- who when the tantrums come I remember what my mom and dad said, "just wait till you have a daughter of your own...."
She- whom I love unconditionally and now know what that really means.


Today, as I am each and every day, I am thankful for "she"

Slow down and pay attention...

Day 11

Change is a good thing (now go ahead and repeat that 50 times till you actually start to believe it). ")
There has been alot of changes in my (and the Martushev family) life. Some have been good, some bad, and some? Just plain ugly. However. Without the change, however good, bad and/or ugly, I know I would not be able to grow, and grow I have. Especially in the last 18 months.

So today? However it might hurt, whatever it will bring in, the good, bad and/or ugly times... it will continue to happen and may even be at the next exit I encounter.


Change? I am thankful for you.

It just aint a salad without it.

Day 10

So I should say today I am thankful for Russ (it being his b-day and all- Shout out to you bro!). HOWEVER. It was a very long day at work and as I rushed home to get dinner ready for the fam before the Red Flame took off to scouts, I was not in the mood for the tomato basil chicken pasta that was a cookin...

Then I saw this little beauty in the fridge which was immediately snatched up and poured on my cabbage, tomato and pear salad. Delish. I love this stuff. Fyi- its really good on potstickers too!

Tonight- I am thankful for Balsamic Vinegrette. It gave me a happy ending to a rough day.

H2O... in the very LARGE sense of the word.

Day 9

The Ocean. I have such fond memories of the Ocean; camping with my family in tents just minutes away from the water. Knowing the water was going to be cold, no matter what time of year it was. At times having to dress like it was winter-even though we were going to the Coast in July. Taking Russ into the ocean's salt water (with a pretty wicked diaper rash) to swim and wondering why he was wailing so, which made our parents wail at us...What?! What'd we do? The Oregon Coast. My Coast, was NOT your California Oceanside. It was seals, whales, and fog...and breathtakingly beautiful.

Sofia and Ella have had to opportunity to visit a few different "coasts" in thier short lifetime some on the other side of the world. I hope the memories they make of the Oregon Coast hold as dear to them as the ones I made (and continue to make) when I was young.

So today, I am thankful for the Ocean.

By the way...

Here is the absolutely de-lovely mini-van which I am thankful for~ (published on Day 1 catch up).

Kindred Spirit

Day 8

Ok. so Ill admit it. I am not one of those creative moms that can come up with an unbelieveable amount of activities for thier kids to do each day. The days I work from home and have a conference call, I make one other call to this guy here. I have to think that he was as kindred a spirit if ever encountered as he was portrayed to be. We may not have ever met, but I am thankful for his genius...and all his friends. That not only visited my house as a kid (on the rather old school VHS or every Sunday Night...You guys remember- We had to suffer through Star Trek with Dad to get to watch "our show") but that now visit my house where my kids can let thier imagination wander in a realm of possibility. To you Mr. Walt Disney...As are the millions of other people's lives you have touched, I am thankful for you.

#36

#36 as he was known to our family due to the 36 tagged to his ear. One of the 3 friends who occupied the field behind our house. Our neighbor who from Day 1, came to visit us in the backyard and became the girls' favorite playtime buddy. #36 would come right up to the fence to say hello and if he saw us in the kitchen (as we had a great view of him there) would Moo, moo, moo until we would come out. He ate our grass clippings and weeds galore this Summer and got rid of the apples that fell into our yard. Was a great distraction at Jon and Heidi's Open House and great for the many play dates we had at our House. Thanks for the memories.

#36. I am thankful for you...

Side note: Alas, we have not seen #36 in quite sometime. Hoping he went to a good home of an old couple who just like to have cows as pets, were hoping not to have to have the conversation with the girls the next time we have hamburger for dinner....

Neices and Nephews...

I love these kids...They were my kids before I had kids. They were the ones I could cuddle, spoil and feed treats too- and give them back to thier parents. The ones who I have private jokes with (sniff, sniff, what's that smell?...PIZZA!) the ones who will still ask for Chocolate eggs when we come and visit...the ones who are always giving hugs and unconditional love. I wonder if it was a look ahead of sorts for when I am a grandparent...Hmmm.

So Nicole, Nathan, Derek, Lauren, Kurt, McKena, Mason, Spencer, Devon, Mady and the 2 on thier way....

I am thankful for each and every one of you.

Struggle...

So I am jumping on the band wagon and declaring it "Thanks giving" Month. Each day I pledge to write something I am thankful for and why....I am a bit behind in the calendar, so here are a few (5 if you would like to start counting) to catch me up...In no particular order.

• I am Thankful for my health. With the scares of swine flu, the unknowns that can befall any one of us and change our lives forever in a blink, and day to day ails, I am thankful I have a healthy body that allows me to keep working and keep up with my kids.
• I am Thankful for my religion. I have been struggling to find the positive in many small aspects of my life lately and really leaned on my faith to get me through. Yes, I still struggle...daily. But I am able to remember to breathe in and out, put one foot in front of the other, and make myself KNOW that everything will be alright. If not immediately, then eventually.
• I am Thankful for my job. I work with an organization that is family oriented and am allowed the privledge to bring my girls to work with me. I am there for and don't miss out on; snack time, lunch time, nap time and when needed, ouchie time. It is a blessing that when it is required I work, I have this opportunity.
• I am Thankful for my home. We were being looked after this last year in being able to purchase our first home. I love it and thank those who helped get us in each and every day. My girls have a yard, the Red Flame has a shop and I have an office! It may get cluttered alot faster than our small apartment did, but it is worth every bit.
• I am Thankful for my mini-van. We took the plunge and were able to buy a Mini-van. Im not sure if I just feel more like a mom in it, or that I just like the fact the doors open on thier own with a push of a button. Maybe it is the radio that works like a CHARM! (a welcome sound as I think the girls were getting tired of my singing).

So there you have it. I'm caught up for the month and will have another item to add to my Thankful list tomorrow. Maybe if you're lucky, Ill have some pics to go along with it.

Go ahead, make a list of your own...It's amazing to find that when you stop and think about it...you are thankful for an awful lot.

DIY or BUST

Ok. For those of you who have been fortunate enough to be around me the last 6 months, since getting the house, I have been so giddy to finally start projects.

Just 3 little letters...DIY- Do it Yourself and boy am I obsessed!!! I love it. Unfortunately, I do not have the creative genius that I find out there in Blog land (kuddos to y'all who do!) but I will be posting some things I have attempted lately for your viewing pleasure.

Keep posted! One will be a fabulous (and cheap!) neighbors, co-workers, etc. gift. I for one have found that since moving into a home, it is kinda the "thing to do" at X-mas.

Here is to starting new traditions and adding just one (or many) more things to my plate. Busy hands are happy hands!

Free is a very good price...

Call me one of those who "takes advantage" i.e. when you go to a place when they have thier neverending pasta bowl? Better believe my last bowl is going to be "to-go". So growing up we kept the saying of "Free is a very good price" (compliments of the late? Tom Petersen guy)saying as a sort of motto in our home. If it was free (and yes, such a thing still exists) you get it...two if you can.

It was in this spirit that when asked if we wanted to go to our friends Company Picnic at the Canby Fairgrounds where everything (from the food, to the rides, to the entertainment) was FREE. Well, you did not have to ask us twice. Here are a few highlights (pics stolen from Sare's blog as my camera is still holding mine hostage).

The price? We must have waited about 45+ minutes for these ponies to let us have our turn to ride. We kept on having to drag Sofia back as each time the tiny gate would open, she was using those arms (blockers courtesy of her Russian DNA) to get through to the front. Good thing she is cute. I think that is what saved her...

She was a might happy camper when it was her turn...I think she was gloating to all the other kids in the line...check out the yawner in the background...yeah, it was somthing like that.

Ella would have gone on this one by herself, but it was the mom who was a bit shy about it. Maybe if they could have duct taped her into the saddle...but I didnt mind going with her. It gave me a front seat to her grins and giggles for her first pony ride.

When lunch time rolled around, we had to beg, bribe and threaten Sofia to eat. I'm told one day she will find eating more enjoyable and not such a chore anymore. This pic was caught when I told her she had to finish her hamburger and then we would go on the pony rides...She stuffed the entire thing into her mouth. Were talking a full hamburger (she stuffed about 1/2 of one in).
All I could do was pray she did not choke and kept on repeating- Chew Maka, Chew!

Ella on the other hand....

This girl WENT TO TOWN on this corn. I did not even have enough time to put on a bib before she was gnarling at it with her few teeth she has. I think I even heard a growl escape her lips as I put the bib on (midway through the feast of corn). Girlfriend can eat...Now if I can only figure out where it all goes. 90% for height...10% for weight. I DO feed her! Really I do!

Moral of the story: Stand clear when you utter the word "Free" around the Martushev's...We tend to get our money's worth.

NOT impressed with Mr. Chuck

Sofia has had so many little friend birthday parties lately! There are just alot of kids born about the same time of year as her. She cracks me up in that just about every other day, she asks whose birthday it is. She will go through her list of friends and more often than not, there is one more that has a birthday party we will be attending.

More than a few weeks ago (September to be correct...I know I'm a BIT behind ok?) we went to her buddy's Luke and Stevie's combined birthday party at Chuck E. Cheeses. So call me a mom, but I was giddy with excitement to see her first meeting with the 2nd place mouse (behind the big guy himself...y'all know which mouse I am referring...) Anyway. We started off great!



We had some cake...



Sofia helped the boys open presents from us- I had to think back to what I got for my birthdays to figure out what to get them...they are after all boys and not into that whole barrette thing so much.


We played some games....


Then HE came out. I was so excited for Sofia to see him and get a picture with THE Mouse. Instead when her eyes set foot on him, what I got was a TERRIFIED little girl who was running for the hills and as far away from Chuck as possible. Steve (the younger of the two boys) hid underneath our table and Sofia was a close second. This is where I am a horrible mom. I was laughing hysterically!! With my Sofia in my arms in a death grip, I was trying to soothe her in between the laughter. Finally Chuck took a break and it was back to playing games. Until....


Break time over. I tried my best to prepare Sofia (as I spotted him first) by crouching down and calmly telling her that I did not want her to get upset bu Chuck E. Cheese was back out. She barely heard the last word and RAN FULL SPEED screaming the entire way to the first pair of open (and furthest away) arms she could find.


This time I let her be soothed by another Baba as I grabbed the camera. I could not get Sof to look at me. Her face was BURIED in that soothing yet leathal shoulder only a Russian Grandma can have (years of using it as a blocking mechanism to get on the bus). Notice the little boy? That is Stevie trying to pry Sofia's death grip from HIS Baba so he can have a turn (one in the same who hid underneath the table the first go around).


Needless to say it was NOT the scenario I had expected. Here's how the conversation went on the way home.


Us: "Sofia, how did you like Chuck E. Cheeses?"


Sof: "Mama, I do NOT like Chuck E. Cheese"


Us: "But did you have fun at the party?"


Sof: "Yes, but Mama, I do NOT like Chuck E. Cheese, Im scared of him!"


Us: "Ellichka, how did you like Chuck E. Cheese?"


Ella: (insert big ole grin here) "Cheese!"


She had no problem with him at all....


I guess Disneyland (even if we could afford it) is out of the question for a few years...

A taste to tempt the palate...

First off, how the heck do you spell palate? I hope it came across correctly, palate (as in mouth, tastebuds, etc.) and not pallet (like freight).

Anyhoo! Since I cannot seem to figure out why my camera will not down load the gizzilion pics that I have waiting to be posted. I have chosen to steal, er borrow some that Sare took while we were up there and has graciously posted on her blog. Here is just of the many memories we made while at Grandpas house. Ill get some more soon.

The ever gorgeous Multnomah Falls... Sofia was into pinching cheeks this whole trip....is she trying to tell me something?

They had this little concession stand and the ice cream is a fav to the girls (especially on sore gums while you are teething). This is Ella when we gave her a bite of the cookie (if you know our Ella you know she LOVES her food....)

This is Ella when we took away the cookie to wipe the mess off of her face! NOT happy.

The girls. They love thier Aunt Sarah. Im telling ya. Both girls went to her the second they met her. I really believe kids see inside people. They know thier peeps when they meet one.

I will never, ever in a million years grow tired of seeing The Red Flame with on of our kids (however many there will be) on his shoulders. There is just something about seeing a Papa carry his child. Call it pioneerish irony, but I love it.

I quit trying to get Sofia to not do acrobatics on the railing when other people started taking pictures of her as well as us. She has no fear, man. Flexible little pixie isnt she?

Such a small number to descibe such a big girl...

You're three Sofia. Today you are three years old. Many of my friends are relishing the fact that they have thier youngest who has already surpassed this landmark and yet I am staring it in the face. Will I be a young enough mom to be "cool" when you are older? Will you keep me young? Will you always need me?

Remembering when you were born is not hard to do.

• You came 11 days early, much similar to your personality now, in that you JUST CANT WAIT!
• Although I could not see it (which was probley a good thing) you had been so excited to take your first breath, that you wrapped yourself around the umbilical cord and Dr. Tanner literally had to unravel you before you could cry.
  
• They took you so quick to make sure you were ok, Papa was the first face you saw, but I knew you when I saw you. YOU were mine.
  

And today as you turn three, you may only remember it as just another day, but here are a few things that have happened so far.

• You have noticed that Mama has exceeded the number of kisses that normally get laid on you.
  
• Extra hugs have been given every time you pass by and I love yous are abounding.
  
• When asked what you wanted as your "Birthday Breakfast" you said Kasha- like Baba (your Russian Grandma). Which means made with a whole lotta love and a bit too much sugar.
  
• You keep on singing Happy Birthday to yourself, although I wonder if you comprehend what a special day this is for you and our family. This was the day 3 years ago that I first felt like we were a start to a family.
  

Happy Birthday my sweets. You do make things interesting! I love your energy, I love your spunk, I love you!


HAPPY THIRD BIRTHDAY SOFIA!

I heart my Maka....

This is a teaser of sorts as it was taken at the Oregon Coast (another place I heart....).

Yes, I still need to post the trip.

Yes, I know I have been taking forever (or it seems so).

Yes, it is because I am busier than all get out...and no, I am not exaggerating.

No, I have not forgotten.

For those of you who are wondering why we would call Sofia- Maka. Ask Artyom. He said that in one of the cities he served his mission in that is what they would call the little kids.

He started it...I continued it. And it stuck. Yes, you guessed it. I heart her as well.

When the cat's away.....

So does anyone else think the girls had a great time while we were out on a date? I found these on the girl's "Lara's" facebook page. And play they did!

No Place like Home.

It started with some vacation time that was going to be lost if we did not decide on whether or not to use it. I suggested many a place; Grand Canyon (still on my list!) a place we had not been to, a road trip somewhere with the girls. He thought for only a minute and said, let's go home. Yes, we do live in Utah...But when he said it and the way he said it, I knew what he meant.

Home. Molalla, Oregon. Popluation 7560 (or so).

Molalla. The place where people let you go first at the 4 way stop with the blinking red light in the middle of town, even though it may not be your turn.
Molalla. Where there is no way to hide that you are "not from around here" because every person knows every other person and when someone visits, news travels fast.
Molalla. The place that is just enough off the beaten path that it MAKES you slow down, relax, and take a breath.
Molalla. Where the only thing that outnumbers the amount of bars in such a small town is the number of churches (of all different faiths).
Molalla. The place where the girls know Grandpa, the "sisters" and the cousins live.
Molalla. The place where the only way I learned to spell it was in song as a first grader. Come on now, sing it with me, y'all who know. (M-o-l-a-ll-a is where were from, we want to stay, we will never loose the pride we share at Mo-lall-a Primary School!!)
Molalla. Where the word "Howdy" does not cause me to giggle, but smile. Cause up there, that is how we say hello...to everyone. Whether you know them or not.
Molalla. The place I hope my girls will see not only as where Mama grew up, but as thier "other" home as well.

To put how much fun we had in one post would not do our trip justice. Ill post event by event. Stay tuned. It will be swell.

Grandpa's Legacy

We took a quick trip to my Grandpa's Cabin this weekend and had a great time- SANS KIDS! Even though I totally would have taken then, we decided to just go with another couple friends of ours who also left thier kids home. What a blast! Thanks Alla and Luke! Let's go again.