The Martushev Family

new 8-5 digs

2012-02-13T11:04:00.000-08:00

Yep! New digs, new job. I am working for CHG, who just landed at #9 on Fortune's top 100 best companies to work for. Not too shabby eh? I am really liking it so far, and have found that whether we like it or not, we have to be pushed sometimes in the right direction. This has definitely been the right move for our family, and I am hoping that it will be everything I am hoping for. So. That being said, I will get back tot he journal jar entries today or tomorrow. I need to. They are as much for me as anyone!

Journal Jar entry

2012-01-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

Q: What would you like most to be remembered for?

A: This is a hard one...I first thought about what others may remember me most for and it boombarded my all too feeble mind with many thoughts. Then I thought about what I remember most about a person who I love and miss each and every day. What I remember about her is how Christlike she was. It was not how cute and petite she was, it was not her age defying beauty (although she possessed that and I only wish it was a gene that was given to me). It was in the manner in which she treated every single living thing that came into contact with her. With the utmost respect and honor of meeting them, like it was a gift that she was able to meet them, when I always saw it as the other way around. She made each and every person feel as though they mattered.

She was in a word, kind. It is such a simple word, that carries a whoolup of expectations and the older I get, I realize just how important that one word is to people.

I am no where near being the person I most want to be remembered for, but I would like to think that if anyone I have had any significant contact with would remember me as someone who made them feel as though they mattered. It doesnt take a lot to make a person feel like they matter, and that is what I hope people remember about me. That in one point of our time together, that they felt like they mattered to me. Because whether they know it or not, they do.

Journal Jar entry

2012-01-14T22:46:00.000-08:00

Q: What advice would you give to those younger than you?

A: I was in Young Womens for quite a number of years (at least for me it was the longest calling I have had yet) and I remember always telling them to decide who they wanted to be now, and to just BE that person. If you want to be a mother, then be a mother, if you want to be a Lawyer, a nurse, a hippie, whatever it is, then do it.

Paths may change, the scenery may change, but if you know what or who you want to be then you will get there. If you keep your goal in mind. There are some things that I have not done (yet) and would still like to do, and I would love to have shook the younger me and told her to listen to the now older me and just do it! If that made any sense whatsoever.

I can only keep on doing what I know is right now- you can't look back. I love the quote from President Monson "The past is behind you, learn from it, the future is ahead of you, prepare for it, the present is here, live it. " (this is probley not word for word, but you get the drift!)

So advice? I may not be the best person to take it from, but I will always be honest with you and point you in the right direction...after all. I have a Garmin to get me around the city I have lived in for 12 years....

Journal Jar entry

2012-01-11T19:37:00.000-08:00

Q: Your first experience with driving...and all that entails...

A: My Dad had it correct. We could not touch the automatic car until we had the stick shift down pat. My first attempts to master the stick shift were made in a parked car in our driveway. My Dad would have us go out and just practice shifting the gears back and forth and working the pedals. I still remember watching Marshall Hutchinson (your fabulous husband Cherrie!!) while he drove me to seminary every morning and watching his feet as he shifted. He probley thought I was crazy and had some insane foot fetish...But it helped!!

Once we thought we had the shifting somewhat down, we graduated to the good ole Church parking lot, AKA- beginner drivers course. It was the best place to learn and I have used it a number of times on Sarah, and the Red Flame as well. Not much you could run into (especially other cars) and good practice for the real deal.

My "real deal" was a nightmare all it's own. For those of you who remember Grandpa Pederson's (Great Grandpa Pederson for some of you out there!) red truck, I had to drive that thing on one of my first outings. I was headed to a "Daddy-Daughter" night at the church and was already nervous enough since I had not had the opportunity to do anything like this with my Dad before. So I was doing pretty well with shifting...till we got to the stop sign. For the life of me I could not get that thing into first. I kept on putting it in second and killing it immediately. So here I am, in the middle of the road, killing and re-killing the engine while my Dad is telling me to put it back into first, try again and go! Second gear you said? Oh ok. I can do that! Ugh. It was horrendous. I really don't remember how I made it out of the middle of the road, surprised that I did not get into an accident (or cause one for someone else) and got to the church. Needless to say, I was drama (shocker) and probley made it fairly painful night for my Dad. But that my friends is what we call parenting to the only girl in a family full of brothers. Sometimes there will be a little drama.

Ahhh. The joys of learning how to drive....

Journal Jar entry numero uno!

2012-01-10T21:30:00.000-08:00

Yes. I am finally posting. Dad- so you know, my best friend Jacki got me a "Journal Jar" for Christmas with a billion questions contained in it for blog entry ideas. Some may be edited for the faint of heart (or if I need to cover up anything from my wayward youth!) but most will be just some more info. that some may or may not know about me.

Q:-Were you ever involved in speech, drama, sports, or glee club?

A: Girl, I WAS Drama. LOL. Ok in all seriousness, yes I was involved in Drama. My acting debut was in 6th grade..I think. When I starred in our musical "Luane" like the comic. I remember having fun with it and having the "hearthrob" of the school in the play, playing the love interest. But since this was 6th grade and we were all pretty awkward- I think I played the part as an awkward pre-teen perfectly...without much acting on my part. I remember my parents coming to see me and how nervous I was to have my Dad there.

In Highschool I played Sandy in "Grease" which was SO FUN!!! I only got to do 2(?) of the shows but it was a blast. The guy who played Danny Zuko was a guy a few years younger than me in school and the car scene when were supposed to be kissing, we just rubbed noses. Hehe. Cracking up the entire time. That was a fun musical to do.
I played some spin-off part in "The Wizard of Oz" which I am still a little bitter about since I wanted the part of the Lion cause he has such a cool song. Turns out the kid who got it was completely tone deaf and had to TALK the song, not sing it. BELOW AVERAGE.

Then I got to play Mother Superior in "The Sound of Music". Yeah...I might even be able to pull out a pic of that one. The fun thing was, I was able to be in it with my youngest brother Russ who played one of the Von Trapp kids-Kurt I believe. He was adorable! Me as Mother Superior? Not so adorable. I had make-up PLASTERED on me to look older and although all the adults said it was the best part, I had to beg to differ. It was a fun musical to do though and I don't regret it. I guess it could have been worse...I could have had to "talk" the song instead of sing it.

Although I did not do any acting in College, I was in some debate classes and LOVED them. I remember winning a debate and scoring some free hotel nights that we used in Hawaii which came in very handy when we went. I was pregnant with Sofia and burned to a crisp. I have never been so miserable. Russ made me a concoction of lidocaine and aloe and I made it through, but MAN. That was painful. The hotel? Pure luxury!

No more excuses

2012-01-03T19:15:00.000-08:00

My bestie Jacki gave me a jar of questions for Christmas which will MAKE me post to the blog more and perhaps reveal a bit more about me and our family doings. Im excited about it. I LOVE her to pieces and LOVE the gift she gave me.

Hope eveyone had a great New Year. The postings will begin tomorrow. (I promise Jacki!)

Christmas lights at Temple Square

2011-12-25T22:09:00.000-08:00

Yes. It has been since October since I posted last. Yes. I have it on my 2012 resolutions list to post more-if not for Grandpa, then at least for me! And last of all yes. I have excuses, but none that would be worth writing about. So onward to the present.

We always want to go to Temple Square and see the lights and we seem to always pick the coldest and busiest day to see them. This year was no exception...except for maybe one. We got a KILLER parking spot! And since Artyom was staying on for a bit with the Russians while I took the girls home to bed, I was so stoked. We were parked DIRECTLY in front of Temple Square and did not have to walk a mile to get there. It. was. awesome. I was somewhat less impressed when we got back to the car and we had 2 cars ahead of us (where there were NO parking spaces) but it worked out. This year we did not take any chances in being cold. We bundled up the girls in snowsuits and went and saw the lights. It was a great evening.Sofia trying her luck at picture taking- she did great I thought!

5

2011-10-07T10:09:00.000-07:00

My first born Sofia...you are 5 today. That means 5 years ago today, you made me a mama. Your mama and have blessed mine and Papa's life every day since with your sweet spirit, your laugh and your smile. We named you Sofia after your friend Sofia Y. in Russia and it has suited you perfectly. You may not remember it now, but here are a few things about you that I have noticed lately now that you are a "big kid".

You called me at work this morning thanking you for the note I left on your placemat on the table. I was so glad to wish you a Happy Birthday and cannot wait to see your face when I susprise you with lunch in just a few hours. Our own special date- just Sofia and Mama. I'm even going to bring balloons!

You have heard me telling you I love you a few extra times today....it's because I do.

You have not wandered from wanting a Unicorn Pillow Pet for the last few months-even though we were trying to persuade you in getting a panda one...they were 50% off. But you stood your ground and thanks to a co-worker, you will be getting your wish.

You are the epitome of "Girl" loving pink and purple, dolls and dresses and "jewels". Don't get me wrong, you do have an athletic side to you (weve seen it especially in soccer) but you are GIRL down to the core.

You STILL will not allow me to cut your hair (just small trims here and there). You have the softest head known to mankind, but are getting much better about making sure it is brushed thoroughly and love to see it in curls, as you say- "just like you mama".

Your sister Ella is by far your biggest fan and best friend. You guys are so cute together and you love when Ella calls you "sister" which is 99% of the time.

Papa is still your favorite person to see walk through the door in the evening and the only one worthy to read "skaskee" at night.

Your Russian improves every day and you love to learn.

When I asked your opinion about my earrings the other day you told me they were "rockin".

You asked when you would be 13 because it is taking "FOREVER" to get here. I just smiled and said to hang on just a little bit longer.

Questions, questions, questions are what I hear day in and day out. And if I cannot answer them, you wait patiently until I call Grandpa to ask his opinion...

You love Grandma Pederson so very much and tell me stories every day about what you and Grandma did, how SHE would cook dinner in comparison to me how much she loves your long hair and always ask if we can go and see her. Oh sweets....That's my wish too.

These last 5 years have flown by and I cannot imagine what the years would have been like without you in them to fill with love, laughter, tears, frustration, anxiety and all the other emotions that being a mother brings.

Have a wonderful year as a 5 year old Birthday Girl. We love you.

'Atta kid!

2011-09-27T13:18:00.000-07:00

Artyom has been able to go to the last few games of Sof's and since he is by far her biggest fan, was able to catch some pics of Sofia. Can I just say- this kid is a rockstar! She has scored at every game since she "found her groove" and is loving playing with the team. She still get a bit upset when she does not make a goal or gets shoved out of a play, and her shoelaces still are a constant isuse.... HOWEVER-I'm SO glad we decided to put her in with her bestie Holden. They are so fun to watch and even though they may act like brother and sister most of the time, it's great.

Grandpa and Uncle Jon, these pics are for you. Jon you have a soccer star neice in the making...just thought you outta know.

Getting ready to play, with Coach Matt giving the "Yellow Dragons" a pep talk.
Sofia has the ball and she is going for it!! Run Sofia- RUN!!!Doing her victory Dance...and yes, she does indeed dance. We parents on the sidelines have a chuckle each and every time.

The tale of two Sofia's

2011-09-08T11:45:00.000-07:00

Meet Sofia Y. (on the left) and Sofia M. (on the right). The tale? Here is some background for ya. Artyom has a best friend, Kolya that he had to leave in the Motherland when he came over here to marry me- now that's love huh? Anyway, Kolya got married and had a baby girl and they named her Sofia. When our news that we were having our first girl came, I did not have much say in what we were going to name our new little bundle. Artyom was pretty set on the name Sofia. I even remember talking about names as we Honeymoon'd in San Francisco. He was adamant about it even then! This summer Kolya, Yulia and Sofia (thier eldest-they have since had another girl (yep- just like us named Dasha) were able to come and spend some time in the states and Sofia Y's Birthday happened while she was here so the "American-Russians" threw her a princess pinata party.

Our good friends the Flamm's (same ones we went to Wyoming with) hosted it at thier new house, even though they had just moved in like 5 minutes before. The girls played dress up and got on some princess wear, we took the pinata in the basement, and it was a blast! I hope that Sofia had fun (the both of them) and that we will be able to do it again sometime in the future.

It was SO fun to hear our Sofia speaking Russian so much more with her new BFF Sofia Y. around. Sofia M. still asks when we will go and visit Sofia Y. and her family...I hope soon baby girl...Papa missess his BFF just as much as you do.

The Blog of Eli

2011-08-30T07:00:00.001-07:00

*ALL PICS SELFISHLY STOLEN FROM COUSIN JOSH- AS ALWAYS THANKS FOR BEING THE FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER...WE WOULD BE NOTHING WITHOUT THE MEMORIES ON FILM!!!

Jon came home safely from Iraq and he made the rounds with his son, Eli and Heidi in tow. It was FAR too short of a visit to get to know the handsome little man, but were glad we got to see him for a few days at least! Here is Elijah and Eli meeting. 2nd cousins (?!) born about a month apart.

First cousins Woodrow (Woody who belongs to Paul and Liane) and Eli (who belongs to Jon and Heidi). They are about 4 months apart in age.

Cute little family! Jon was in Iraq for about 6 months so I heard it took Eli a few days to REALLY warm up and remember his Dad. Now, you would not even know that Jon was ever gone. So stinkin cute.

Heidi and sleepy Eli

Some of the next generation of kids-Sof and Ella are missing since we were trying to get to Bountiful after an overweighted van had it and blew out our back tire while traveling at very fast speeds outside of Burley, ID. Yeah... THAT is another story. HOWEVER! From L to R: Madalyn, Woodrow, Maya, Eli and Elijah.

Grandpas Legacy

2011-08-18T12:33:00.000-07:00

Weve been so very anxious to get up to Grandpa Demars Cabin and a few weeks back, we just did it. We were joined by Nikki, Cody and thier 5 kids and Jacki and Tim and thier 2 boys. Yep. Your math would be correct. We had 6 adults....and count em...9 kids... and we had a blast!!
The adventure of Sunday was an upclose greeting with this big guy. He came right up to the play area where all the kids were. Cody was there to casually suggest they go back inside...It was fine till one of the kids spotted "THE MOOSE" and it went a little haywire from there. This pic was taken safely from the balcony as he made his way around. I forgot how HUGE these things are!!

What trip to the cabin would be complete without smores?! They were oh so good! But when arent they?!

The one pic we all go together. The rest of the time was just trying to get any pics at all -it prooved to be a bit difficult when youre trying to keep track of 9 kids.

We went on a walk and met the cutest couple on thier way up to thier cabin who invited us to go on thier slide. It was awesome! It went from thier deck to the ground into a sand pit and each kid got some turns going down. So fun!!!

This is Sofia's newest way to make sure her monkey does not get lost. it may stretch out her collar in the shirt, but I could not help but let her. It was so cute the way she came up with it and it really did keep monkey in place!

Cute Cousins

2011-08-16T06:47:00.000-07:00

I love that our family gets together for birthdays, etc. and we were even more excited when Matt and Vero and thier 2 kiddos moved back to Utah. We love having more cousins to play with. Maya and Elijah were so fun to play with. Were so happy you guys are here!!

LOVE this pic. It started out with a few of the girls all piling on Luke, it ended up with us piling ALL the girls on him. It was awesome. From Left to Right: Ella, Maya, Sofia and Mady.

Pioneer Day

2011-08-15T12:28:00.000-07:00

If you are lucky enough to live in Utah- you (usually) get the 24th of July off for Pioneer Day! We get another parade (although its downtown this time) and the girls got to go with Betsy and her sister Renee. I was unfortunately working since the rest of the US does not quite understand our State Holiday. But they had a blast- and that is what counts. Sofia getting comfortable with Betsy- Im so glad she doesnt mind!!

Tantrums, tears and triumph.

2011-08-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe, but the days of soccer, dance, swimming, etc. have started. Sofia played in her very first soccer game this last Wednesday. Here she is on the sidelines with Holden cheering on the other member of "The Green Dragons" (her team name)...

She had practice on Saturday and was a bit apprehensive about playing saying she was not as fast as the other kids and never got the ball...Hmm. This is where the tears came in. I love this pic as it shows how most of the team is- you have your "happy go lucky kid" (on the far left) who is just having some fun regardless, the "ball hog kid" who is the biggest on the team and doesnt quite get that it's a "TEAM" sport quite yet (2nd in from left), Holden the "hustle kid" who just wants some action and is happy to at least kick the ball and then the "I'm so frustrated I'm going to cry and need a hug every 2 seconds" kid....Sofia. She was the fave of the moms on the sidelines saying how cute she was, and ahhh. precious. I was the exception. I was the one saying "get in it Sof!! Get tough!!! You can do it!!!" And you know what? It worked.
Check out that determinded little face on her. Jacki took this one and when she showed it to me said, "See she is IN IT!" And I had to agree. Go Sofia.

The game ended in triumph! A 2-1 win for the Green Dragons first game. These are the moments I dreamed about before I became a mom hoping that someday I would have them. I am so grateful for the chance now that they are here.

Russian Preschool

2011-08-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

Since Artyom only speaks Russian to the girls at home and me you ask? Well, Ill be honest- it is defnitely NOT 100% and partly because Sofia always tells me, "Mama, you're speaking like Papa again- speak English!" It makes me laugh...So awhile back I tried to get a Russian Prek going since I could not find one in the Salt Lake City Valley and it just did not happen as I could not be home 3x a week to do it. Well we were in luck because our very good friend Veronika (from Russia) wanted to start one too-and our house became the place to be at 11:30 each Saturday. Until we find another spot, get more kids, etc. its a party at the Martushev's.

There are usually about 6-8 kids that come and for now, they are all in one group. Eventually we would like to split the group into beginner and advanced and yours truly will be the beginner group teacher! It will be like my mission all over again trying to learn a language with little kids (who seriously are the best teachers- they say easy words, they dont get frustrated with you, and they just giggle when you make a mistake). Except this time it will be in reverse...Ill try not to giggle though...much.

The girls LOVE it. Sofia has learned and began to be so much more comfortable with speaking and even her friends know that she says words 2 ways. Her bff Holden will "quiz" her alot asking what words are in Russian, and for the most part- she knows them! Both the Red Flame and I love to hear her embrace both cultures she was privledged to be born with and we are so thankful to Veronika for getting this off the ground. She is a natural born teacher and the kids all adore her.

Come see us!

Still a Molalla Buckeroo at heart I guess

2011-08-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

Growing up in Molalla, Oregon there are not many memories I have that do not in one way, shape or form involve cowboy boots, cows or at the heart of it-The Molalla Buckeroo. I can't say that I was a fan of the gear, animals or rodeo back then, but the older I get, I realize that it was a pretty magical time. Especially during the month of July. It was our yearly treat to go to the live showing of the Ramblin Rod show and get some free tickets to go on the carnival rides that made there way to the small town of Molalla year after year. We are not in Molalla, Oregon these days so last year, we were able to go to another Rodeo and stay with Patrice at Aunt Kris' cabin in Horse Creek. This year we went with friends who also have a family cabin in the area. We decided that on the July 24 holiday, this is going to have to become a family tradition with the Martushev's. We had a wonderful time and are so grateful for the hospitality the Flamm Family showed us- Thanks guys!!!

The little Buckeroo's- Ella, Sofia and Sofia-visiting from Russia.

The boys went out shooting- The Red Flame getting ready to hit the target- don't even ask me what kind of gun that is- I know I will be disappointing my Dad...but I have no idea...How bout any guy out there name 3 top designers of handbags? That's what I thought...

SO fun to get to chat with the ladies! Kim, Yulia (also visiting from Russia) and me.

Some background on the stampede of kids. Its thier annual bunny catching race. Sofia AND Ella were able to enter the race this time and although Sof was in TEARS since she was not one of the lucky(?) kids to grab a bunny, Ella was content enough to get the consolation prize- A licorice red rope. Maybe next year sweets...

Abby (Bryan and Kim's oldest) was nice enough to take the kids out on the 4-wheeler. Again, and again, and again. Sof was great at never forgetting the importance of the helmet.

Her chance at stearing the 4-wheeler. You rough rider you!

The kids favorite thing about the inside of the cabin- the self playing piano. OH Man. The kids were going NUTS over this thing. It was pretty fun to watch. We finally had to unplug it to stop the insanity (and kids desperately needed naps!).

More 4th of July

2011-08-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

Told you they were coming...Were BIG fans of the 4th of July at our house. This year I had done so many different outfits with a bandana, I just tried to get creative with the RWB. I think we did ok...Check out those clouds in the background- it was so humid. We got a few drops on us a couple of times, but that did not dampen these girls Patriotic spirit! My BFF Jacki was a good sport and let me drag her around to store after store looking for a red bandana for Sofia (which I ended up finding at home anyway-sigh). She was a bit apprehensive at how it would all come together when I was trying to explain "my vision" but even she agreed after seeing her in it, that it was stinkin cute!! And we HAD to have the RED! The three cousins- Sofia, Madalyn and Ella. Cutie patooties. Following the parade, lunch at chick-fil-a, a nap and a BBQ with fireworks at a neighborhood block party, we walked to our park to see the West Jordan fireworks. We are sooo lucky to be close by. There were cars EVERYWHERE.

There may or may ot have been some horsing around involving the Red Flame and his girls. It was all about the glow in the dark bracelets and necklaces. A must have and SO fun.

Happy 4th of July everyone!

Running hug in motion

2011-08-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

La, la la, just running in the yard....3
And off goes ella to seperate from her sister....2Run to me Ella- I will catch you- OK!.....1Contact.

Aint life grand when you're young?

You won't find these two inside

2011-07-26T07:03:00.002-07:00

It's Summer and the girls are taking full advantage of the warm weather and being in it every moment they possibly can. They are in the pool most of the afternoon over at Betsy's and after a much needed nap, we get home and they want to go outside all over again. Lucky girls. I am glad they are having fun, but miss when I cannot be right out there with them. I love my job and what I do. Things are BUSY at work and I have had some very long days (Friday was a 10.5 hour day-starting at being at work at 6:30 AM!!). I am grateful for the work, being busy and let's be honest, the general sense of importance that a career gives me, but if possible, I'd give it all up for these two. What mom would'nt?

Too cute not to post

2011-07-21T08:12:00.000-07:00

So I was originally going to try and drag things out a bit with the picture posting since it seems like it is either a TON of posts or nothing at all with me. I'm just too busy (or choose to do other things) to post alot at the moment, so basically I am picture DUMPING of all the cute pics Betsy gave me of the girls. Lets be honest...they are just too cute NOT to post.

Just a taste

2011-07-20T08:38:00.000-07:00

This is just a taste of some of the summer fun the girls have been having-we are very blessed to have Betsy who not only takes the girls to her house and let's them swim (Ella is a complete natural with the water and even goes under by herself! Sof...she is getting there!) but also takes wonderful pics of them so I do not feel quite so bad about not being able to be there myself. I love to get pictures of the girls and Betsy is a wonderful up and coming photographer. It's a win-win!

Chuck E Cheese-revisited

2011-07-19T09:57:00.000-07:00

You may recall about a year ago when we attempted the Chuck E. Cheese birthday party with one of Sofia's little friends. It did not go over very well. Both girls loved it when they first arrived-until the life size version of a hat wearing mouse came out from the back room and Sofia lost it. She literally ran out of my arms (we were playing in the game area) and ran underneath the table where we were sitting. She seriously was scared out of her 3 year old mind. She climbed up into the arms of the Grandma that was there and would not leave her side. Where was I as my poor, frightened little one was in hysterics? Laughing till my sides ached of course. She (Sofia) vowed she would never return and even when we would pass by said mouse's house, would tell me "Mom, I do NOT like Chuck E. Cheese".
So you can imagine our apprehension when we decided to go for Ella's birthday (we got a screaming daily deal). We did as most parents would and tried to get Sofia "manned up" to attend and she did ok...till we hit the parking lot. The eyes welled up with tears and once again, overwhelming panic insued. She was bawling as we went in, but got over it. This time, I think she even enjoyed herself...a little bit. There was no running under the table, no crawling up into outstretched arms and both Sofia and our Birthday girl Ella had a good time.

Tulip Princess Pageant

2011-07-18T07:13:00.000-07:00

Awhile back (yes, it was indeed a WHILE ago) I got some email saying that Thanksgiving Point was going to do a Tulip Princess Pageant to help commerate the Tulip Festival going on. It was the 1st annual and they stressed that only a handful of openings were available. Well, I thought it would be a fun thing for Sof to do, if she wanted to and was not at all susprised when she SQUEELED into the phone that yes, she was all over it. This was when we were waiting for her to get her hair and make-up done. The "princesses" were super cute. They had the mannerisms of a true Disney Princess down to an art! Sof loved it.When it was Sofia's turn for hair and make-up the group was really behind (time wise) after she was done Betsy and I took a few wipes to her face, and re-did her hair... Oh well. THEN we let her get her costume on. Here she is among the other tulips. Are'nt they so cute?!

In true procrastinator fashion, I was up till the wee hours of the morning finishing her "Tulip Tutu" since in MY mind, that is what would look cutest. The day of, Betsy came and took pictures of the events for me (THANK YOU BETSY!!!! I would seriously have missed out on some of her faces if I would have been trying to take pics too) and this is what we have. Fun memories of a great experience for Miss Sofia.

She was in the 4-6 age category, and a few people asked why I did not put Ella in the 1-3 category. Simple. I asked her and she said no. (Smile). Ella is just not as, oh how do I put it? Theatrical as her older sister. So just Sofia it was- maybe next year.

You were supposed to include a small paragraph about your tulip princess to be read as they "did thier thing" on stage so I thought I would tell you what was said to "set the stage" They started reading and Sofia walked hand in hand with another Disney Princess and then curtsied to Prince Eric (who Sof TOTALLY had a crush on!) and then walked back. So while Sof was walking, this is what was being said.

"A Bi-lingual babe who speaks Russian, our Sofia Hope sees herself as Anastasia and is truly a princess at heart. She loves to sing, dance, dream and waits daily for her own Prince Charming-who Mom and Dad hope will wait a few years before coming and sweeping her off her feet. Sofia has a very colorful and loving personality, that when you meet her, you cannot help but smile. She is friendly, and loves getting to know new people. Sofia stays busy, but amidst all her daily duties as a pricess, Sofia does not forget to always stop and smell the flowers. At 4 years old, we love our talented tulip!"

I of course was tearing up when they called her name. I just watched as she so daintly walked up and curtisied to Prince Eric and smiled and waved to everyone in the audience. I could not have been more proud, more blessed, felt more lucky than anyone else in the world to have such a sweet little girl in my life. What a wonderful memory it was for the both of us!

It takes two..posts that is.

2011-07-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

We had a great 4th of July weekend that yes, it will take two posts to get it all covered. First off- Maya Hansen's Birthday! Maya is just a few days older than Ella, so it was so fun to see them together and it got me excited (albeit a bit nostalgic) about Ella's birthday coming up. Thanks again to Cuncle Josh for the pics. I AM getting better with the picture taking and got some pretty cute ones of the 4th. That is the second post-which is coming. But for now, here are some of the fun memories we had at Nana's. Happy Birthday Maya!
We had mock Cafe Rio pulled pork burritos and salads, water slides, family and alot of fun. I love having family so close by and am always grateful for Nana and Popou for letting us all crash at thier house so much. Thanks again you guys!!

The place where we all live...

2011-06-28T06:32:00.001-07:00

I love the Fourth. I love that my kids love it. Sofia has been asking me daily where we are going to go to eat "hamgaburs" and watch the fireworks. Well we decided to take advantage of the different cities "days" and Aunt Liane, Madalyn, Sofia, Ella and myself went to the neighboring "Taylorsville Dayz" and saw what they had to offer.
We got to pick out our favorite carnival food (Sof picked a hamgabur-shocker!) and look at the rides. Although we didnt ride any, we got to pick out our favorite and put on our list for next week when we hit the West Jordan Days. Ella even got a round of applause from a crowd as she showed no fear and walked up to this "demon" that was at least 12 feet tall with HUGE arms and gave him a hug while other kids stood by and screamed. She liked it so much that with a nervous laugh she went and did it again!! Again, no camera. I know. I suck.
The other day, Liane told me that Madalyn loves ABBA. She knows the entire Mama Mia soundtrack and if a Disney princess song came on, she would probley give you a blank look, but put on Abba's greatest hits- and shes a rockstar. So when Liane told me that Taylorsville Dayz had a tribute to ABBA- we were there!!!
We sat on the lawn and listened to the music and then decided to leave early to miss the crowds before the fireworks came. We found a spot of lawn at a bank not a mile away and camped out there. It was great- until the sprinklers came on. As I was trying to throw-er, gently coax Ella off my lap I turned just as the sprinkler was turning and it hit my face full on!! It was HILARIOUS! Great memories and I am just sad that I did not have a camera to get the event on film....

Next time. And of course there will be a next time. Were planning on visiting as many "City Days" as we can in this place were we all live. So many carnivals-so little time.

Some things never change...

2011-06-21T13:55:00.001-07:00

I remember doing this. I remember being up there, on the stage with Ryan and Jennie (Harris) Carter during our Christmas program and that Mom (Grandma) I believe was the one who made the lamb outfit for me....

Fast forward about 30 years....

Thats our Sof in front...the lamb with a blue outfit and a peace sign on her shirt...I just wish I could zoom and crop for you.

I wonder what kind of lamb Sofia's daughter will resemble in another 30 years..

Couponing 101

2011-06-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

I guess you could say I'm getting back to my roots as I remember being taken to the store with a coupon and going and getting what we needed. Only looking to my right and my left and seeing my siblings in the checkout lines next to me doing the same thing!

I am now teaching coupon classes to show people how they too can feed a family of four for $150 a month! We have food storage for the first time EVER- and this is while Artyom has been unemployed for the last 10 months. Its been a answer to prayers for us and I'm so excited to tell people about it.

So if youre in the UT area- email me! I not only need the practice, but who can not benefit from actually saving money in today's economy. Its a win-win.

Does'nt get much better than this

2011-06-02T13:08:00.000-07:00

So for those of you who know Facebook, you know that when you have a Birthday, you are literally bombarded with Birthday wishes. Its great- but my Blackberry this morning was nearing its memory limit with all the messages. I feel loved!

THEN. Then it was topped by this pic not only being posted on Facebook, but a susprise visit from the Betsy with 2 adorable girls in tow. My girls as a matter of fact. SO CUTE!! They came and susprised me at work with balloons and cards and I could not have been happier. It just does'nt get much better than this! What a way to make a Mama feel special on her Birthday. I'm one lucky girl.

Birthday-Russian Style

2011-05-31T07:41:00.000-07:00

I got to admit, my Russian people KNOW how to throw a Birthday Party and this year, our friend Aliona's was no exception. She was turning a milestone and wanted to celbrate in style, so we did just that. We met at "The Roof" and had a birthday bash- Russian style. Such good food, wonderful company, so much fun. Were very blessed to have such great friends who include us in such memories. Aliona- The Birthday Girl with her husband Blaine. These two are amazing together.

Aliona's Mom. She was Hilarious!!! Everyone kept on calling her the "turtle" I guess there is some Russian cartoon that she looked like. Our Amazing View from our private party room. My Red Flame and me.
Such a fun evening. We debated on taking the girls, but decided we had way too much fun without them. Next time girls!

Another First

2011-05-27T12:45:00.000-07:00

Sofia loves preschool. So one morning not so long ago, when I got a call saying Sof did not want to go and was even faking being sick (saying she had a cough-and was going to throw up) I knew something was up. We got to the bottom of it and the reason? Her first bullying by a boy at school.

Now I know I should have just laughed it off, but when I heard that this kid Preston (which I still can't say without a small form of disdain) had hit my kid, well. I was not the most chariable I could have been and was going to march right down to the school myself and give said bully- and his parent a piece of my mind. Luckily it was not me that took Sof to school and Sof was told to go and tell Mrs. Chavez what had happened.

I LOVE the response Mrs. Chavez gave to Sofia. She told her that it was her job to keep the kids (including Sofia) safe while they were at school. And if she ever felt unsafe to come and talk to her right away. Well, almost immediately (alomst) my hard core feelings crumbled a bit and I was very grateful for a teacher who taught Sofia that when Mom is not around, there are always other people who have her back.

Preston may want to steer clear of me (and Sofia for that matter) for awhile though....Done like a true Pederson-since said bullying? Sof has polished up on her defense skills. And yes, I am kidding...sort-of.

Thankful.

2011-05-10T06:22:00.000-07:00

It is days like today that, when there seems to be only one thing that I can hope to hold onto and not fall completely apart-is when im thankful that there is this little one.

Bedroom-wallpaper free

2011-05-04T06:48:00.001-07:00

This picture doesnt really have much to do with the re-do. I just thought she looked so CUTE! Hello?! Look at those gorgeous brown eyes! And it WAS taken before- just look at the background- WALLPAPER!

Here are the before and after of the bedroom. I was afraid I would hate the color since Artyom and I RARELY (if ever) agree on colors for the walls. So far with both rooms, he literally walks up to the wall of paint color samples and just grabs one. It drives me nuts!! Dont you want to look at a few, compare, try it out for a minute before we just up and buy it?! Nope. Just like shopping. He despises it. So I was worried that the color he picked- "Rosemary" was going to be WAY to dark and it was nothing like the "Lemon Verbena" color that I liked.

At the end of the day, he painted and I smiled. I think it turned out pretty darn good. What do you think? So here we see the wallpaper I was suffering under. Sorry if anyone out there likes it...its just NOT us. Artyom seriously had his work cut out for him in this room. This wallpaper was AWFUL to take off. It took forever. Such a big difference with the girls room. He had it down in 1 day. Rockstar.

And the after...Say it with me....AHHHHH!

Better yes?! We think so...

Ta-Da!

2011-05-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

Yes! Finally they are here. The unveiling of the kids nook that I fought so hard for. The girls love it. And yes, I know it is not decorated all cutie-patootie yet, but I wanted to get the pics posted before y'all began to wonder if it even existed! Thats what we were dealing with...Heres what the Red Flame created

Thank you Artyom! We all love the new Kids nook. I promise Sofia and Ella, I will get it even more beautified for you soon- after all, its your new "home!"

Easter-revisited

2011-04-29T06:59:00.001-07:00

All the cute pics that were taken on Easter were just NOT going to fit in one little post. So Grandpa- here are a few more for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy! WOODY P.! (well as his Dad Paul calls him). You have to imagine him saying his name like a blinged up rapper. Then you can imagine the full effect. This kids a chunk of love!

Ella at the little girls table. She was so excited to be with her big sister and cousin Mady!

Ok. So Im biased. But MAN! These girls are cute.

Aunt Liane trying to get Woody to not bite through the shell on the egg. Sofia thought this was THE most hilarious thing in the world.

Cousins- Sofia and Mady. They play so good together. We are SO glad we have cousins that live nearby!

EGGSACTLY!

2011-04-28T07:24:00.001-07:00

The "Greek" in the Hansen family causes Easter to be a very fun experience with the Bracket of the eggs. Heres the rundown. The Hansens do the majority of the work by boiling and decorating a plethora of eggs. Then on Easter between the dinner and dessert, we start the bracket. Junior, Main and Senior. You pick and egg and go to battle. One person does the "hitting" the other braces themself (and thier egg) in hopes it does not crack. If it does? Your out. If it does'nt? You move on to ther next bracket. Make sense?!

Well to further explain...

Here is Sofia and Mady going at it. Mady's egg was seriously a ROCK! When she won the tournament for the Junior bracket, Sof tried to finally break it. She was literally POUNDING her egg on Mady's and it barely cracked. I was laughing hysterically watching my little one get so worked up about it...I have NO idea where the dramatic competition streak comes from.

Mady with her "rock"

Mady and Ella going to battle. Mady won out the entire Junior bracket!

Ella decided to get into the marker that was used to make the bracket...yeah...Nuff said.

Easter at Nana's

2011-04-27T09:51:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Easter- both at our house and at "Nana's". However, I did feel like a slacker Mom when I did not get an Easter picture of the family. Rats. Ill have to get them all dolled up again sometime soon and get the pic at that time. The Easter Bunny left a trail of jelly beans from the front door to the couch where the girl's flower purses (this years version of a basket) were and no. Another slacker moment. No picture.

Cuncle Josh came through however when we went to Nana's for dinner later that night and we had a great time with the everyone there.

Ella, being...well I dont know! The stickers were a hit and it seems Ella just missed putting it on her pajamas by a few inches...

Woody P! Giggling boy.

The kids table- The three girly, girl cousins. Sofia, Ella and Mady

Sofia and Mady...

What a difference a year makes...

2011-04-25T06:50:00.000-07:00

WOW. These were taken about the same time- around Easter. I cannot believe how much they have changed!!

2010

2011The funniest is the hair! Ella still is rocking her A-line cut (is just looks so cute on her!!!) and Sofia refuses to let me cut her hair short again- the 2010 pics are a few months after she took the scissors to both her and Ellas hair. UGH! Since then she has let those locks grow!

Nope. Not yet.

2011-04-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

I know, I know. I promised the pics of the kid's nook (as undecorated as it is), but I had to post (minus the pics as well) that yet another room in our home has been DE WALLPAPERED! I am so excited. We (and when I say we- Im talking about Artyom) are down to the final task of texturing and then will get to paint! Glee!! Artyom found his 2nd wind and has tackled this room in record time. It makes me excited to think of what we can do next. The Girls room (currently in blue plaid...) or tackle the wood paneling in our downstairs?! Maybe the acid flashback, flower power spare room? Oh the possibilities.

And just as a teaser, I hope to get pics up by tomorrow of Sofia in her debut "Tulip Princess Pageant" OH yes. Its as cute as its sounds.

Unveliling...

2011-04-14T07:33:00.000-07:00

Ok. We have tackled yet another project in the house. The Kids nook is DONE! YES!! Much thanks has to go out to the Red Flame on this one. Like most of the things in our house when it comes to redecorating or "improving" things-I have the will He has the way...And he has yet again, because he loves me, finished a project that I started. I was so excited and the girls love it. Now I just need to get some before and after pics posted. Ill have Artyom take some today. We have yet to really decorate it a ton and I have not hung up anything (we have a magnet board that needs painting/decorating, and need a chalkboard done up too...) Anyone want to do it for me? I know, I KNOW! Im working on it. It has just been on the lower end of my to-do list. I need to tackle a few baskets full of laundry first. (at least its clean laundry!) So Thank you so much Artyom for the hard work you did on the Kids Nook and are currently doing on our bedroom. That is another post and I will get pics on that one too! To sum it up in a word? WALLPAPER.

Cousin Fun

2011-03-31T11:22:00.000-07:00

I have to give props out to MY cousin, Josh for being the designated photographer at most Family Events. I would not have ANY of the cute pics of the cousins if not for him. So Thanks Cuncle Josh!

We got together for a Family Home Evening at Nana's on Monday night, and had some great times! And what would a Pederson (who just happen to be Norwegian) FHE be without the Bakkels! SOOO good.

We do our part in keeping the Red haired genes alive- Long live strawberry blond!!

We "heart" visitors

2011-03-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

Things are all a buzz at the Martushev house. We have a very happy pair of girls as the long awaited visit from thier cousins has arrived and they could not be more excited. Ryan, Tonya and all 5 kids came to visit for the week and we are looking forward to some fun memories. We prepared and are fully stocked with paper plates and plastic utensils, the girls dress up's are out and just waiting for cousin McKena to say "Yes, I would LOVE to play dress up princess with you!", Sofia is already ALL OVER having a "brother" in the house with Mason there, and Ella and Devon did not skip a beat when we walked through the door and immediately started playing keep away with one another. Go Diego Go has made a reappearance on our TV per Spencer's request and Brooklyn, she just gets to walk around and look cute. Good times.

More Discovery Museum Gateway!

2011-03-10T13:45:00.001-08:00

Just more memories from the Kid's Museum. It was a bit rainy, so we RAN out to the helicopter and tried to get some pictures of Sofia. We did not succeed too well. Ella never did get a seat. There were just too many kids!

Ahhh yes. My girls, newscasters extraordinaire. For those that know Sofia, she was announcing the news with hands out, "This is the news to all my friends". It was hilarious!

Ella's dream come true. An entire WALL made of magnets to slap on. I had to literally pull her away from this one. Notice her wet sleeve. We had just visited the water exhibit and unlike her big sister Sofia, Ella was all over that one!

But it was to this one that we pulled her to. She jumped right on there and sang, "Riding the Range, Riding the Range, Riding the Range- YAHOO!" A classic from Backyardigans episode.

This was another of the girls' favorites. A Mini Market with carts, bags, and groceries.

It took awhile for Sof to get her turn playing the "checker" but she was patient and it was worth it. Funny note: the next day when we went to the store, she stepped right up to the vacant register and started talking to people that were watching her. "What can I do for you sir?" "Are you ready?" It was awesome.

So fun. I should have bought more of the daily deal when it was so cheap, but I do have another 50% off coupon that we could use. Maybe sometime this Fall. There are too many fun Summer things that I cannot wait to do with the girls coming up!

Red Flame's the big double 3!

2011-03-08T07:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Artyom! Since you are the only 100% Russian in the family, consider this your special birthday wish! I also thought I would let others in on a few things that they may or may not know about you.
SO. Here is a top 5 list of things you may or may not know about the Red Flame and why I love him so much...in no particular order.

His love affair with Chunky Soup. (Yep. The one that tastes like soup, eats like a meal). I bought it one day with a coupon and he loved it!! so much that he called his mom via Skype to show her the can and tell her all about it. It still makes me laugh.
His contagious laugh. Honestly, I think it was one of the things that made me fall for him. If you want someone to laugh at your joke, tell it to Artyom. He even does the ultimate "faux-pas" by laughing at his own jokes...each and every time.
The throat clearer. This may or may not be considered a public service announcement, but if you happen to hear Artyom clear his throat, RUN. RUN AWAY. If not, you will be fortunate enough to hear a story that will last no less than 15 minutes in length. It gets me every time, but without fail, if that throat is cleared, he is just getting started on planning to talk a very long time.
One Word. Merlin. Have you seen that show? He loves it. It is one that we can actually both watch together (which makes me happy!). He never misses an episode and laughs whole heartedly through most of it. He always asks me, "Chair, didnt you think that was funny?!" I just smile and say yes, I did. Just not as funny as you did honey.
Diet Coke addict. Yes. His name is Artyom and he is an addict. "HI ARTYOM!" He had a goal once to not drink Diet Coke on Sunday, a worthy one I thought. Well, more than once did I catch him sneaking a can late in the evening. This one I fear, I will not be able to break no matter how much I would like to. If he ever decides to go through de-tox, I will be calling on each of my siblings and friends to take a night in turn as you guard the soda stash.

Happy Birthday Artyom. I for one am so glad you are a part of my life. Your girls and I love you so much and hope you have a great 33rd!

Discovery Museum Gateway...Part 1

2011-03-07T08:05:00.000-08:00

We took Sofia to the Discovery Museum Gateway when she was "bitty" and thought that the price tag was a bit steep for what she would get out of it. So when a "daily deal" came around, I jumped on it and bought a 4 pack for the family. We headed out one Saturday and had a blast! A few Happy Meals later (can I just say how glad I am that they are all just $2.99 now?!) we walked in. The girls immediately had sensory overload (it was hilarious to watch em!) and we just ran, literally from place to place. The Red Flame took so many cute pics, I will have to do a double post! Here are a few the girls wanted to show Grandpa through the phone one day...I had to do my best to explain how the blog worked...Not sure it sunk in. For what it's worth...

The girls in the "real life" play house. This thing is AWESOME! It has mini everything from furniture, to windows, its just too cute. I loved seeing them play. We went back to this house many a time while we were there.

Sofia taking after her Papa and working the construction site. This girl was not intimidated by all the boys, one bit and used her cuteness to get the boy to her right to help her out. All she did was look at him, and he helped her pull it up! So I had to snap a pic of the after shot. Her face, looking all triumphant, and him standing by, just to make sure...hehe. It was pretty cute.

Big girl

2011-03-04T09:49:00.000-08:00

As most kids do (and I am assuming boys do this as well, since we have yet to get one) both Sofia and Ella love to watch me put my make-up on and on occasion, I may or may not have let them put some play make-up on themselves. I'm reliving my childhood through the 2 girly-girls I have and I love it!

Well Ella said she needed to go potty, so she ran upstairs to go. It was a few minutes later when she had not come down again that we knew there was something going on. Artyom went up to check on her and he called me upstairs yelling, "Dont be mad, and get the camera!" Uh-oh. NOT what I wanted to hear. Well I ran upstairs and decided not to get mad and get the camera as I have learned (only took a few years...) that whatever it is (minus life threatning) will eventually be laughable. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but someday. Luckily this was one of the times that even later that night, we had a chuckle. Our big girl...thinking it's already time for make-up.

This is liquid eyeliner by the way. You can see the "wand" as she kept calling it, in her hand and the small (once filled) container of black eyeliner in the other hand. Let me tell you how much fun I had getting that stuff off her skin...

The blur of the holidays

2011-03-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

December was NOT a good month to the Martushev family. It started out wonderful. Grandpa was coming to visit, I had a TON of things planned for us to do, Uncle Russ was coming from Hawaii to spend Christmas with us and we were going to have us some fun!

Well it did not exactly turn out that way....Read the post entitled "Cause in five years Ill laugh about it" and you will BEGIN to see why.

It WAS great to have my Dad here, and it WAS great to have Russ here as well, but my visions of Christmas morning were halted with Ella and her ear and then Christmas Eve, I started getting sick. Ithought it was nothing, but by the next morning, I could barely get myself out of bed. I did, and ended up on the floor watching the girls open things. Later on (see below) I actually did drag myself to the couch, and there I remained for hours. These are what is left of my Christmas Day nighmare that put me in bed for 2 days straight-missing all the fun. So today, I am grateful to the Red Flame for taking the precious pics of Christmas morning that he did.

Below you will see what happens when you dare lay on the ground at our house. Your two neices will make a princess out of you! (Uncle Russ wearing one of thier princess crowns- such a good sport!)What made me laugh about this one, was that Santa acutally brought the bike for Sofia and the Barbie car for Ella....They seemed to have a different idea.

The prized play kitchen. Definitely a high-lite of our Christmas morning!

Two cute girls (if I do say so myself- rocking thier Christmas pajamas)

Once they found thier princess outfits, off came the pj's and on came the princess dresses. Yep. That's me after I made my way to the couch. Thank goodness Ella is hiding my face!

I felt soo bad! I wanted to be much more involved with the kids but this is how I spent Christmas morning. On the floor with my pillow!

I only wish I could see Ella's face as she opened this- priceless!!! At least Uncle Russ seemed to catch it!

The two princesses at work in thier kitchen. LOVE IT!

Stay Tuned

2011-02-17T09:53:00.000-08:00

Remember this?

Well it is almost complete! It took a bit longer to finish as it turned into a debate on whether to actually turn it into a "kids nook" or just another storage space, but we decided. The Red Flame has put in a huge effort and alot of time into it and it is almost ready for the finishing touches.

So stay tuned!! I hope to be able to unveil it soon.

Happy Heart Day!

2011-02-15T10:17:00.000-08:00

This is my reality...

I actually thought AHEAD this Valentine's Day and through an awesome deal I got on one of my close friend's blog that she runs (http://www.bargaindivas.com/) seriously, check her out... I got Valentine's Day cards for CHEAP! Were talking less than $5. And I got 50 of em! I was stoked. I got them all together and the girls and I addressed them to Grandpa, Nana and Papou, some Uncles, Aunts and Cuncle Josh. (he needed his own since HE took the pics!).

I even got them in the mail on time! I was so proud. Here is the short end. I knew it was Valentine's Day...all day yesterday. But FORGOT to post thier pics on the blog. I even told a few rellies to "be sure to look on the blog for thier Valentine" Yeah...too bad they will get it a day late huh? On the plus side of things....

Those two? This is my reality. And I love it!

Feet on the ground

2011-01-28T13:48:00.001-08:00

Betsy took these of the girls the other day, and when she asked Sofia if she would like to get her picture taken with some balloons, she was a bit concerned..."But I don't want to fly away!!" Don't worry sweets. We would never let that happen.

Martushev Family Goals 2011

2011-01-24T12:42:00.001-08:00

I have been doing it every year since Artyom and I were married. In fact, I did it every year before there was even an "us". I credit it to my parents who, at the beginning of each year, sat us down at our weekly "Family Council" and asked us what we wanted to have as our goals for the year. There was one we could always count on one of the six of us blurting out- THE BEACH! The yearly campout and as that got harder on my mom, the trip to the Beach. A year just wasnt a year without it. Another being to read the Book of Mormon each morning was a goal on a number of year's lists as well. And we did it. (I had a really awesome Mom).

The others? I could not tell you a 1/4 of them. But the ones that stood out then, still stand out now.

Now there is an "us" and I have been putting together a "Martushev Family Goals (insert year here) since we were married. So here we are again at the forefront of another New Year and I am finally getting my goals, family goals and waiting on the Red Flame to get me his goals to slap on our fridge door. We find it not only keeps US more accountable, but it is so much fun to cross a goal off and write the date that we accomplished it. Then, at the end of the year, the list is taken down and put in "The Book" to be filed away and revisited at another time- further down the road.

So as I make my goals, some have been on there a few years in a row. Some are new and others? We make up as we go. But I love doing it and am hopeful and try to be patient as we do our best to accomplish them.

Happy 1st month of 2011. I hope if you did make some goals for yourself, your family, etc. That you accomplish all you set out to do~and more.

Direction

2011-01-17T10:55:00.000-08:00

Seriously, just seeing her face when she opened this one from U. Paul and A. Liane, made my heart happy. It was TWINS! A boy and a girl. She almost immediately gave the boy to Ella...

She was VERY happy about her Curious George Pajamas. And the Hello Kitty electric toothbrush on the left? Ella got one too. Can I just say how much we LOVE the electric toothbrush?! Awesomeness.

I realize it is now 2011...and mid way through January at that. But I cannot help but have to go backwards to put in a bit about our Little Miss' Birthday. It was quite the social gathering (as much as you can get with your brother, sil and 2 kids) but we had a blast. Hang tight as the direction of the blog goes back and forth. I do this for Grandpa (among many others) and they don't seem to mind...so neither do I.

I scored one of the many "Daily Deals" that are out there, and we combined our weekly FHE with Sofia's Birthday. The Pederson's came out with us and we had fun at the all you can eat Pizza and Pasta bar that I scored which made it basically free! We went on rides and played video games and ate, and ate, and ate! She had a great 4th birthday and thanks to Uncle Paul and Aunt Liane (and cousins) coming along with us, she had a great time on the rides and opening her presents. It was fun to see Ella watch her and imitate every ooooh and ahhh and WOW that came out of her big sister's mouth.

Unfortunately, I walked like a hunchback for all but about 15 minutes of the entire night. I bent down and threw my back out- OUCH!! I was out for over a week. It was horrible. But Sweets had her day and I was able to take a moment and remember "her day" the day she joined us. And how excited I was when she decided to become a part of our family on October 7, 2006. Days like that, you don't soon forget.

Because in 5 years Ill laugh about it.

2011-01-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

Poor Miss Ella about half way through the "ear journey". Neither one of us felt very well here.

I thought I would be over being sensitive about the comments that I was getting regarding Ella and the incident of the ear. The truth? It still bothers me, but I had to document this as our blog is somewhat of a journal for me. The good, bad and the ugly. This entry has a little bit of each. On that note, here is the story for history's sake...and so I can make Ella read it each and every time the thought crosses her mind to put something in her ear.

Ella had a bad fever which caused her eardrum to burst. Ouch. I know. Well it was healing quite nicely, but also probley caused a bit of discomfort as it did. So, she did what any normal 2 1/2 year old would do...Following breakfast one morning, she put a piece of Captain Crunch in her ear. We tried to get it out, but only seemed to push it in her ear further. Our pediatrician said it would more than likely break down and fall out. If it was not causing her any discomfort, then let it come out. DONT try to remove it on your own as it will make it worse.

So we waited. And then one night it WAS bothering her. I thought it was out since I could not see it. Then as I took a flashlight and looked deeper in her ear by holding it out and looking into the canal, there it was. Stuck. Badly. Not going anywhere and causing alot of pain. This was the 23rd of December, so Long story short (well shorter) we went to do something about it. December 23rd is NOT the day to try and find a specialist in your network- our network's customer service was closed and NOTHING is open. The ENT recommended by our Pediatrician was "only in the office for an hour" and told us to go straight to the ER" So we did. Our first ER visit mind you, and Ella was happy walking in. Fast Forward 7, yes 7 hours later. Ella was no longer happy walking out, in fact The Red Flame had to carry her as she whimpered in her sleep. She was absolutely exhausted and the solidified cereal was STILL in her ear. We spent 7 hours of people flushing, poking, proding with 4 adults need to hold our little one down and then finally causing bleeding in her ear in the ER. It was awful.

She spent the weekend like that then first thing Monday we took her to the ENT (a different one) who got it out in 15 minutes. LOVE Dr. Katz at Alta View. He was great!! Lesson to parents: IF you can stand it, wait the weekend and go STRAIGHT to the specialist. They are called that for a reason. If not, if the ER cannot get something out of the ear, nose or throat in 15 minutes or less, it is not coming out. That is what Dr. Katz told us. Good to know.

Then the drainage began. Were not talking just a little, it was dripping from her ear lobe for a week! She would not leave my arms and left a puddle each time she lifted her head up. GEW!! Ear drops, cold medicine and the fever still did not break, with the cold she got on top of that we again went to our pediatrician and currently she is on a pretty heavy antibiotic for; a double ear infection, swollen tonsils and sinus infection. Yeah. Go ahead and nominate me for Mother of the Year. I sooo deserve it!

It was a pretty miserable few weeks for our family over Christmas. HOWEVER. I am pleased to announce that we are on the mend! Were trying to beef Ella up as she lost over a pound during this whole fiasco, and I came through VERY grateful for wonderful friends, family, and the power of prayer. No matter what you belive in or how feel about prayer, there is power there. And it's real.

I may be up to the humorous jab or two like "just add milk!", "was it crunch berries or peanut butter crunch?" In about 5 years or so...But for now? I'm just glad this is now a memory and no longer my reality.

Fall Fotos

2010-12-21T10:46:00.000-08:00

My cousin Josh has started a Photo business-www.jsnowphotography.net. He has done a few photo shoots of us in the past and I am excited to see his work come to life. These were a few of the "Fall Fotos" we were able to get of the girls and fam. Go check him out!

I love looking at pictures of the girls when they are side by side. One- a brown hair/brown eyed beauty, the other- a blonde hair/blue eyed cutie!! Love it!

Got Milk?

2010-12-20T13:19:00.000-08:00

So here's the thing...I work. I love my job, but it does not allow me to be home all the time and sometimes it is up to the Red Flame to take care of our darling little angels...THIS is what happens when you have 1 Russian Red Flame (who was not watching very close), 2 little angels turned heathen and 3 pounds of trix that they found in the cupboard. Artyom greeted me with the pics he took of the girls and as I looked to Sofia for answers, she said. "But Mama, we just wanted a snack...." When Artyom's back was turned trying to clean up the mess, this is where he found Ella. She was probley going after the Cocoa Crispies next!

Yep. A kitchen scattered with TRIX. And we don't have the smallest of kitchens...

Sofia doing her best to "rid the kitchen of evidence" before I got home...

Nursery Rhyme Halloween

2010-12-17T09:46:00.000-08:00

I DID get the girls' outfits to both go trick or treating at my office and then that night. We went as Mary...and her sheep! Thank you Martha Stewart! I always had this "dream" of sitting at a sewing maching and humming along a Disney inspired tune as I so delicately made my children's costumes filled with a mother's love and tender care. The reality?! I was still sewing a few mintues before we walked out the door and mumbling profanites under my breath, swearing I would NEVER try this again. Fast forward a month-I'm over it now and will indeed attempt the making of costumes again. Iloved how they turned out too much not to. I just may have to start making them in November next time around....Its all about that learning curve folks!

The girls with THIER Betsy.

Trick or treating fun at the office.

Mary and her lambs

Only Sofia and I were brave enough to face the DOWNPOUR of rain and wind and go out to a few houses. She had a blast though, and it was all worth it. She and Ella were adorable and it was so fun to have another set of memories with our family.

Halloween at preschool

2010-12-16T13:41:00.000-08:00

Yeah. Still behind. I had to get these up for Grandpa-if no other reason! Since I was not quite done with the girls' costumes when Sofia had preschool, we had to make do and come up with something quick! Call me "catty" but I thought it was cute!Sofia could not be outdone and decided she wanted to be a cat too. Pardon the "no pants" we were trying to potty train!

Take 5!

2010-12-14T13:12:00.000-08:00

Yep. 5. That is how long the Red Flame and I have been married. We celebrated our 5th Wedding Anniversary on December 10th. What is funny, is the number of years that I have actually known him...That number is a bit more impressive...a whopping 12! However, there were quite a few things that needed to happen in between that first meeting and the "I do's". They did and here we are. Since you may not know the many things that makes Artyom, well the Red Flame, I decided to share the list I gave to him for our Anniversary. Following the top 10 list, Artyom is getting one a day, so if he has decided to check our blog and read ahead- well so be it!

31 Reasons of why I love you- A TOP 10 and one for each remaining day of the month!

You always say you love me before hanging up the phone.
You do the right thing...regardless of the consequences. What an example of how loyal and how much integrity you have. I hope the girls learn that about you at an early age.
Date nights are important to me...I am SO glad that they are importnat to you too!
You are not picky about my cooking, even when it's hot dogs and mashed potatoes (a staple from both our mission days!)
You are true to the covenants we made in the Temple together. We are in this together and I would not have it any other way.
You are determinded to have the girls speaking Russian. It was one of the many reasons I married you. I love Russia, I love the language, the culture and you keep it alive in our family.
You would take the shirt off your own back before you would let another person go without one.
You tell the girls how beautiful they are every time they show you what Mama has dressed them in and how she has done their hair for the day. It means the WORLD to Sofia.
I know, without a doubt, you love our girls. Even though they drive you crazy sometimes, you still love being thier Papa.
We will make it to the place where we want to be. We WILL be an Eternal Family.
You eat leftovers for lunch, even though we just had the same thing for dinner.
You buy me flowers (on occasion) even though before we got married, you said you never would.
You stayed with me ALL 3 DAYS in the hospital when we had Sofia. I have not forgotten how nice that was having you there.
You let me go on my "Girls Night Out" to have a break.
I can count the number of times I have ever vacuumed since we have been married, on one hand...and I LOVE it!
I have yet to mow the lawn...even though I KNOW I could do it to your satisfaction.
You let me dress the girls in the matchy-matchy dresses and you never make fun of me for it.
You read Russian stories to Sofia every night. I know how much it means to her.
You have successfully (by this point) potty trained Ella. That is a HUGE thing off my shoulders.
You trust me with the coupon shopping-knowing that I really am getting the best deal.
You love being with my family- all the brothers, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins that you married into. You really love going to the many events that we have.
You let me clutter the kitchen table with all my sewing stuff, and never put up a fuss. Thank goodness we have the bar to have meals at!
You let me take over the TV on Thursday nights, so I can see my favorite shows.
You hand over your paycheck when you get them, no questions asked, knowing Ill take care of what needs to be paid. I may not like all the responsibility, but I am glad you trust me to do so.
You take care of the girls when I go out of town on business and make sure they are fed, dressed, loved and tucked in at night.
We may not have the biggest house, but we have a home and that is what matters to you.
I know you go without things you would like at times, but you never seem to complain or let it bug you.
You never raise your voice to a point of yelling. You may tease an awful lot, but you are never mean.
You love parties (Russian or American filled ones) as much as I do, and leave our home open to everyone you meet.
You remind me that even though I think we may not have enough...it is always more than you ever had growing up. And it is plenty.
When my request of "I need attention" is heard, you answer it with a hug and let me know that I matter too.

Sunny (memories) in December

2010-12-02T08:19:00.000-08:00

As I am trying my hardest to catch up, I failed to post these of the girls at the bouncy houses in Park City. It was during the Pederson Cousin Reunion and we tried to hit the Alpine Slides. The line was SO incredibly long, we would have been waiting all day for the 10 minute thrill ride. Luckily, they had some bouncy houses set up and we used the money instead to by the 3 girls (Sof, Ella and Mady) a wrist band for an hours worth of jumping, sliding and as Sofia says "getting the wiggles out". Mady was not too sure about the slides and very quickly vetoed that one and stuck to the jumping house. Ella however, could not be "one-up'd" by big sister Sofia and had to climb the ladder and go down the big kid slide, over and over and over and over... well, you get the idea! Sweet Mady...Look at that little champ! She could barely reach the ladder rings, but she did it!This was Ell and Sofia each time after they literally ROCKETED down that slide. Sof was always all smiles and Ella? We could never tell if she loved it or was terrified!! Probley a bit of both! But she turned around and did it all over again. That girl is a ROCKSTAR.This was Mady's one and only attempt at the kid slide. She was screaming the whole way down.

They had a fantastic time, and I needed to post them. So I figured with the foot and a half of snow that we have at our house, I needed some warm thoughts coming my way. Happy December!

Family pics...revisited

2010-11-29T10:36:00.000-08:00

So, here's the thing. We ATTEMPTED to do some family pics in the Fall, the weather was great, we went up a canyon, the girls looked cute, and nope. There was no WAY we were going to get them to both look at the camera. Smiling? That was not an issue. It was that they would say "cheese" to thier little heart's content, but with eyes darting every which way...it was disheartning.

So we tried again. This time in the freezing cold (I believe it was about 25 when we were out) and I am hoping for ONE good family pic. We did get some cute ones of the girls though. Even if they were'nt looking directly at the camera. ")

Man. Pictures were SO much easier (not as much fun- but definitely easier) when they were babies!

1st Bi-Annual Pederson Cousin Reunion

2010-11-24T08:13:00.001-08:00

We decided at a random family get together that we needed to get the cousins (both us "grown-ups" and our kids) together much more often than we do and decided a reunion would be the way to do it. So the plan is to have a Pederson Cousin Reunion every other year.

For our first one, we headed to the condo in Park City (Thanks Trice!!) and had a blast. The girls had so much fun with the other cousins and we grew closer as an extended family, cause really? Is'nt that what it's all about anyway?!

This was the saving grace with the kids at times. Here Sofia and Sam are "taking turns"

As you can see- it was not ALWAYS good times. Sofia had just been given a time out. She recovered quickly though. She learned that bouncing the girls who were littler than she in the bouncy was not the best idea...

Sweet Ella. I tried to mimic her "dazed" look from the parade that morning. We had been up many hours already by this time. She took it like a champ though and loved it.

Mady Mae at the BBQ- we were lucky enough to get the last of the summer warmth and the kids all had a blast picking up as many pinecones as they could find.

Sofia on my shoulders-her much preferred way of travel.

It was so much fun watching the girls anxiously await what was coming up the street. They love parades and we had so much fun watching it that morning.

Heeeerrres Woody! Paul and Liane's newest addition. Woodrow Paul. What a doll that kid is. A chunk and a half, he is the easiest baby to get to laugh. Its awesome.

This was game night. We played the game "Celebrity". So much fun! All the kids did really well. Here is Paul with his two. Mady and Woody. Check out Woody's stare down of his sister's sippy cup!

Sweet Ella. Right before she decided to put one of the dried pine needles in her ear. We didnt know it until she came in and pressed her cheek up aganist mine. Screams errupted, and we figured out what it was. Thank goodness for Patrice's tweezers! No harm done and she has not put anything foreign in her ear since!

Sofia LOVED this cow! We went to ice cream after dinner and the line being pretty long, the cow was a much needed distraction.

This place was soo good. The girls ate up this pizza and loved it!

If Only...

2010-11-11T13:44:00.000-08:00

That has been the question on my mind pretty heavily as of late. If only is a pretty bold way to start off a thought, and it can get you into trouble if you let it! Case in point: Life has happened once again and as my Dad has said to me more than once in my life "It could always be worse." Yeah, Im in a "the glass is half empty" kind of mood today. He is right. I have been looking at all the "if onlys"
-if only Artyom would find a job that were supposed to get
-if only I could leave that 2nd job behind once and for all
-if only we could expand our family NOW instead of later
Then I was once again reminded...instead of if only, why can't I think "only if".
-only if we do what were supposed to do will we see the blessings.
-only, if I were to have left that 2nd job behind when I wanted to, we would not have the tiny extra we DO have to keep us going right now.
-only, if we would have expanded our familiy when I wanted to, we would be in a much different place right now.
I just dont know how y'all do it. I love reading the many blogs that friends of mine have and it seems as the woman of the house does alot of it. I know these women. They have kids, they have daily duties, they have errands to run, mouths to feed, children to teach, houses to clean, how do you do it?! I am in humble awe over you. And thought that holiday or not, you deserved a shout out.
I know alot of people are posting the things they are grateful for this month, and I did last year. I think I need to do it again. I may wait till December...one reason being that I feel like enough of a slacker as it is! hehe. And the 2nd reason being, I want to start the month off fresh!

So stay tuned. I'm still around, just a bit overwhelmed at the moment!

Way TWO fast

2010-08-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

Really?! We brought you home 2 years ago?! Hardly seems possible that 2 years (well over 2 since your b-day was over a month ago!) have come and gone and that the time just keeps speeding up on me!

You are such a blessing to us and I think back about how much I wanted you in our family. I could not be a happier mama.

You had a great time at your party. Although you were a bit shy when it came to being sung to and blowing out the candles. You DID however, feel better once you started to eat your cake. Aunt Diane made you a cake reminiscent of a b-day I had in Utah when I was about 5? I thought it only appropraite you have the same. Circle of b-days past- complete.

Archived

2010-08-19T05:56:00.000-07:00

Ok. I admit it. I am not the greatest at keeping up on our blog, althought I have every intention of doing so...I know, I know, no need to remind me where good intentions lead. I had to dig in my archive of pics to find these and am just now getting them up for Grandpa and whoever else might feel so inclined to look at them. (all 5 of you!) hehe.

So here are a few of our 4th of July parade morning. Ella was so mesmorized my the marching band that she decided to become a part of the parade itself and walk along side them for a few hundred feet or so. She would have for the duration if her mean mama did not make her come back to our group. Not before she basked in the compliments that were given her over her outfit which one mother stated, "was SO americana". Hmmm. Ok. I just thought they would be cute to make (and cheap to boot!!) Who knew 2 bandanas and some ribbon could look so adorable?! Maybe it was the kids that were modeling them...

I came out the good mama when I let her keep the slightly too big cowboy hat on, because parting with that erupted in screams louder than other onlookers were wanting to hear. Ahh, the joys! On that note, Happy August and I hope you had a great July!!

Just a few

2010-08-13T06:53:00.001-07:00

We have had a pretty fun summer this year, and although I wish every day that I could do more with the girls, I hope they know just how much I love them. I hope they know JUST how much more I could do with them. I hope I do enough...It's hard being a mom sometimes. Anyway. Here are a few updated pics of some of our activities this summer.

Cousin Mady Mae. All the kids had the "sun kissed" red faces. It was SO hot that day. We did our best to keep them all hydrated. The girls are so lucky to have you near by to play with!!!

Ella getting some energy out at our "photo shoot" with cousin Josh.

Sofia doing what Sofia does best....just being herself.

Ella, your smile alone just makes my heart melt.

Cousins Lauren and Derek. We had Dave, Krystal and family here for a few days and we had a ball! So much fun seeing you guys this summer.

Even princesses have to eat

2010-08-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

Ella in all her tu-tu cuteness, princessey glory. Thanks Lara for catching this pic!

Can't be

2010-06-22T07:57:00.000-07:00

A post without pics, but one that had to be recorded and transferred from my memory to paper before I forget how it went, what exactly was said and how she is growing up WAY too fast before my eyes...
We got our carpet cleaned the other day and told the girls they could not walk on it until it was dry. We made a game out of it with slippers and many trips back and forth from the rooms for potty breaks, water and such. Well our little miss Sofia could not quite resist the temptation the wet carpet had and started to walk on it. When I told her, "Maka! You cannot walk on the carpet with your bare feet." She looked up at me with utter astonishment and said, but Mama! They are'nt BARE feet...they're GIRL feet.

I stood corrected.

Now, it can't be that I'm the only Mom who hears stuff like this come out of her kid's mouth and think that it is priceless. But to me, it really was.

LOVE having a photographer in the family!

2010-05-24T08:08:00.001-07:00

My cousin Josh took these cutey patootie pics of my neice Madeline Mae. Look at those curls!! I was robbed as here I am with the curly hair and my girls? STICK STRAIGHT! hehe. Just thought I would pass along the word that there is a photographer in the family! I hope to get my girls pics done soon! Thanks for letting me brag about ya Josh.

Before...

2010-05-13T12:20:00.000-07:00

Before I was a Mother...I only wiped my own bottom.

Before I was a Mother...I looked at a screaming toddler in the grocery store and rolled my eyes. Now Im the one getting the dirty looks.

Before I was a Mother...my shoulders (and clothes) were stain free.

Before I was a Mother...I slept through the night consistently and slept in on Saturdays.

Before I was a Mother...I never carried a toy and/or candy in my purse...just in case.

Before I was a Mother...I never knew the names of the characters of Dora, Ni-hao Kilan, and every other cartoon...and sang along with the theme songs.

Before I was a Mother...I never found long forgotten sippy cups with curdled milk surprise waiting for me in the corners of rooms.

Before I was a Mother...I showered in privacy.

Before I was a Mother...I never knew the magical power my hugs and kisses had on "ouchies".

Before I was a Mother...I used the bathroom without an audience asking questions.

Before I was a Mother...I thought the only "foreign language" I knew was Russian.

Before I was a Mother...I did less laundry.

Before I was a Mother...I didnt worry about someone so much in the middle of the night that I had to go and check on them, and feel thier chest...just to be sure.

Before I was a Mother...I remembered things.

Before I was a Mother...I didnt wait in anticipation to hear someone say "I love you" or call me "so and so's Mom".

Before I was a Mother...I didnt understand how you could love someone(s) so much more than you love yourself and be willing to do anything to keep them safe.

Before I was a Mother...I never knew I could love and appreciate mine that much more.

Before I was a Mother...I thought I knew...

Happy Mother's Day to each and every woman out there that is a Mother; mother figure, Aunt, Grandma, etc. (biological or not) to someone else. I adore you.

Little Miss Independent...

2010-04-27T15:16:00.000-07:00

Ella has been so great at being our little Miss Independent at eating, sleeping, entertaining herself, etc. So when she wanted a pudding, I figured it would turn out this way...and yet, I did'nt even care.

Big sister Sofia just watched as she smeared herself with the chocolatey goodness and did not want ANYTHING to do with the mess. Sofia is a the little princess stage and getting so messy was "beneath" her. ")

I don't think Ella minded the mess...After all, it got her a bath. And this girl LOVES the H2O.

Synchronized screaming

2010-04-20T20:35:00.000-07:00

I wanted "the picture" for our bathroom. You know the one...The one you see in your head that you think you can (attempt) to take and make it look EXACTLY like you see it in your head without paying an arm and a leg for a professional to do it for you.
It took 2 different bath visits, and as I learned rather quickly. Giving the girls a bath is perhaps NOT the easiest time to try to take a picture. Ella loves the water and when Sofia is not terrorizing Ella with the bath shark, she is having her own fun on the opposite end of the tub. Here are some the "honorable mentions"
After a few botched attempts, I found a stroke of genius and scared the girls with one of my "unscary" boos and took the shot as the girls had thier synchronized screams...with smiles. This little beauty is now in a sepia tint, 11 x 14 print hanging in our bathroom... Ahh. The sweet feeling of success.

Easter

2010-04-14T10:07:00.001-07:00

We are lucky enough to have family that makes sure we are never without company on holidays, etc. Today was no exception. Josh was good enough to get some pics (and post them super quick!) of the festivities. My Aunt Diane also got the girls the sweetest dresses for Easter. They had a quick little fashion show for everyone. My two cutie patooties!

More Family Time!

2010-03-29T21:08:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I have some great family here. Tonight we celebrated my Aunt's Birthday. As we walked into Olive Garden to greet the rest of the clan, Sofia made our prescence known to the entire restaurant with both hands in the air exclaimed, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY NANA!!! WERE HERE NANA! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!" And if you know our Sofia, you know that she does not have the quietest voice...The whole area just started to laugh.
Ahh Sofia. She was so excited about the birthday party since I told her. She could not wait. She even started us all off with Happy Birthday (we practiced a few times on the way over). She even helped Nana blow out the candles. Heres a few pics that once again I have cousin Josh to thank for!

Frosting...with just a bit of cookies.

2010-03-27T21:08:00.000-07:00

It was a family day today! My Aunt (who the girls call "Nana") and one of my cousins, Jessica were nice enough to take the girls so I could get my haircut (which another cousin, Jenny did) and while the girls were there, one of the many fun things they did was make Easter Bunny cookies. The girls basically ate frosting with a bite or two of cookie. And with help of yet another cousin, Josh I got a few (ok...a lot) of great pics to show the "fruit of thier labors"

Cousins

2010-03-02T19:23:00.001-08:00

We had a family get together for 6 birthdays!! It was fun to get some of my cousins and the second generation (our kids) all in the same house and watch them play together. My cousin Josh got some great pics!! I have so many posts of my kids on here, I thought cousins should be included as well...Ok. not sure why that line is there. Sorry.

I mentioned this was for 6 b-days right? That equals ALOT of cake!!

Cute one of Sam (Justin and Anna's son) and Ella. Justin and Anna are expecting again by the way. #2 due in October.
Sofia giving a cheezy grin.
Sofia and Ella- cutie sisters.
Another one of Sam Pederson
Ella reading the Ensign...or maybe just looking at the pictures.

Cutie pa tootie Mady (Paul and Liane's who are ALSO expecting #2 in June). Starting to see a pattern here?

Sam's close up.

Aunt Charity reading with the girls.

*Matt (another of my cousins0 and his wife Veronica are ALSO expecting #2 in October as well I think. And another cousin is also expecting. Ryan and Tonya just had #5 so including the newest addition Brooklyn, were set up to have 5 new second generation cousins this year!!! Our own mini Baby Boom. Sadly, I am not one of them. In case you were wondering.

In case you need convincing

2010-03-01T20:20:00.000-08:00

http://stakerzxposed.blogspot.com/2010_02_01_archive.html

JUST in case;
you need convincing that there is a higher power.
you have ever made a mistake and wondered if you were the only one.
you need to be witness to a modern day healing.
you have not had a tear day in awhile. Grab the tissues, you'll need em.
you need to understand that sometimes bad things happen to good people...
and sometimes miracles do too.

I found this blog through another, blog hopping. What an amazing story. What an amazing family. What an amazing reminder.

I have posted the link to the first post. I let you decide how much you read into it. I check it every other day.

Free is a very good price.

2010-02-24T12:10:00.000-08:00

Here is a great freebie going on! One of my friends is having a giveaway to boost the exposure of his photography business- check it out!

llya Plaksey Photography And I will remind you: I am doing my first drawing ever. Yes, you all are so excited, I can smell it! The prize is a free 12x18 print of one of my photos. "What photo?" you might be asking yourself. Well, that is up to you! Check out my website, blog, or flickr and see which one catches your fancy. The sky is the limit... (of course, the limit being ONE print =)! So, now that you all are salivating over the prize, follow the instructions below to enter...

1) Create a post on your blog (or, add a "gadget" ad on the side of your blog) with my website link (you can also qualify by posting my link on your facebook status):
http://plaksey.tk/
2)After you have done at least one of these, let me know you have done so by writing on my Illya Plaksey photography fan page wall (not a fan yet? join!):
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Portland-OR/Illya-Plaksey-Photography/10604728791?ref=tsl
Sunday, Feb 28th is the final day. Good luck!!
Psst! Want your chances to win doubled? Do all three steps in #1 (blog post, blog ad AND FB status) and your name will be entered 2 times...so get posting!

Memory Catcher

2010-02-23T20:54:00.000-08:00

www.memorycatcherbooks.blogspot.com

This is what my first post looked like for the new side business I have started...and am SO proud of myself for FINALLY doing it!

The Beginning....There always has to be one- right? Well this is mine. To introduce something that has been in the works (at least in the confines of my mind) for a very long time.

This first post is dedicated to my mother, Linda. Who, without her love, support and way she lived her life, this little dream of mine would not have been possible.

Why Memory Catcher?
When my mom passed away in 2001, one of my (5) brothers asked for people to write down on a piece of paper a memory they had of our mother. Due to the circumstances of life in general, no one did. A few years later I had the very distinct feeling that this was something I needed to see to it's completion. Following a year of many hours of researching, writing and patience, I was able to present my family with the first "Memory Catcher Book" at Christmas 2005. It continues to be a gift to my family and something I cannot wait for my children to read to know and understand who their grandmother was and why she is so incredibly special.

What will my "Memory Catcher Book" look like?
The amount pages contained in the book will all depend on the willingness of people to provide information. I will do the research involved and the "leg-work" in order to make it as fulfilling and complete as possible. The beauty of the book is that it can be added to as new information comes forward and will contain blank pages at the back of the book to write on. In it's essence it could contain; stories, poems, quotes, song lyrics, pictures, etc. Anything that will help paint a picture for the reader about who the person was.

Can't I just do this myself?
Contrary to popular belief, this is NOT an easy task to undergo. The gathering of information, collecting of ideas, and organization of the memories is time consuming and requires an extreme amount of energy. By allowing me to help create this book it takes the time, effort, research and necessary writing out of your hands and allows you to use that time to be with your family, friends and loved ones.

How long will my Memory Catcher Book take to make?
This will vary as it may take longer for people to get the information back to me. I would expect a Memory Catcher Book to be completed within 4-6 weeks.

How much does this cost?
At this time there is not a set cost. It will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Please contact me with questions.

I hope this gives you an idea of what Memory Catcher is all about, what I am aiming to do and how it will give generations to come, a way to not only remember, but know a little bit more about our dearly departed.

Well? What do you think? Now I just need to make a few books and see if it will be as much of a gift as it was for me...for them.

Score if youre in UT

2010-02-15T16:49:00.000-08:00

One of my friends has a blog- Bargain Divas and she has an amazing giveaway from a very talented photographer, Studio Lush Photography. You will definitely want to check her out- her photos are fabulous and she is also offering a special for you even if you don't win!

Heres the link to see the giveaway. www.bargaindivas.com

TomAEto- TomAHto

2010-02-11T10:35:00.000-08:00

I thought I said it correctly...Sofia has loved the new snack that was brought home, courtesy of a awesome sale at the grocery store. I have been trying to lengthen the stay in our pantry, but the girl loves them....What you ask?

When the little one asked what they were I told her, "Sweets, these are called Cereal Bars" To which she replied, "Mama, I love the tree bark!"

Insert Smiley face here...

Sleep easy

2010-02-08T14:45:00.000-08:00

Ella is a dream (pardon the pun) when it comes to her naptime. I find her at different places around the house if I do not get her to her crib in time. She will pat me and ask me (in her 19 mo. old talk) for a nap if I am not on schedule and this particular time, we had just gotten home from work and she had not had a long enough nap. She just folded herself in half and fell asleep. It was pretty adorable. Adorable enough to share!

And just in case you are wondering: NO. I do not let her fall asleep with a bottle. Especially one with juice.

Anew

2010-02-03T09:21:00.000-08:00

The girls had a disney pricess "tent" that had seen it's last playdate early on and with wear and tear I knew it was time for a new one. Our old one did not have a top and the girls would always ask me to put a blanket on top of it. When I saw this little beauty at Walgreens with the top enclosed (on sale no less) I knew Santa would like them to have it.
So from old tents, we started anew and now the girls keep house in thier both the tents and play neighbors. And I might just stop by from time to time for chai (tea time). Don't judget me! I grew up with all brothers!
So we now have 2 t

Before and after...well at least a before

2010-01-30T10:15:00.000-08:00

I tend to be a bit obsessive when it comes to adding things to my plate or "to-do list" regardless of how much I am already doing. For me? It keeps me from focusing on the "less effective" things to more productive. So from an inspiration I saw at my Uncle's house I decided I wanted to change up our closet downstairs that is under our stairs into a play room for the girls. So here is the before:

The after will have to wait...I am just starting to clean out the closet today. It may take some time and effort to get things as I plan on spending as little as possible. (Free would be great!) But Ill keep you all posted.
Oh and by the way? ANY ideas on how to decorate, do, or make it fun for kids would be greatly appreciated! I seem to have the ideas....but not the creative know-how. ")

Defying the laws...

2010-01-28T18:49:00.000-08:00

I caught this precious pic when the two girls both made thier way into our bed one early Saturday morning...Initially they were on opposite sides of our King Bed. That is how I left them. When I came back in to check on my 2 sleeping beauties, they had found a way to defy the law of "you're in my space" and showed me that as sisters, they are closer than I think.

Moments

2010-01-26T20:01:00.000-08:00

Neal A. Maxwell said, "Moments are the molecules that make up eternity..." On Christmas Day, these were a few that will help make up mine.

Reminicing...

2010-01-24T22:35:00.001-08:00

December was a great month. Busy, Beautiful with the snow and the holidays were great. However, I was ready for the New Year to start and when it did- it packed a WHOLLUP! So I found myself reminiscing about December here are just a few things in pictures that happened:

Christmas Lights at the Temple...we about froze the girls I think. It was pretty cold!

Close up time with Santa~ (or one of his helpers anyway) If you look really close you will see that this helper of Santa's is cousin Josh Hansen!.On a side note- the skirts the girls are wearing are one of the sewing projects I have been doing. They are scarfs that I re-purposed into skirts! Super cute!

Long and short of it

2010-01-23T21:59:00.001-08:00

I am still reeling from Sofia deciding to take matters into her scissor holding hands and literally sheer herself and then show sisterly love and turn on Ella's hair. It took more of a toll on my motherly pride than I thought. I really felt like a failure for awhile...sigh.
I did not take a picture of the floor as I found it covered in hair- I thought about it, but was freaking out so bad, the Red Flame went behind me and cleaned it up before I could come back and get a pic and get even more upset. So I guess I have to thank him for that. Without further adue-

Here's the long...

And short of it...

Everyone else is doing it...

2010-01-19T10:03:00.000-08:00

I have been extremely astounded at what the World Wide Web has done in the last few years. It seems as though people have become "instant celebrities" with blogs being followed, Etsy shops being created and talents people possess that are able to reach the masses.

I have had a desire (for the last several years now) to start something that I could use my interests and talent (however small they may be!) in doing something that I found to be a most precious gift when my Mom passed away. And 2010, with all the possibilities it holds...is my year.

I am still trying to sort it all out, and ask if anyone knows anything about starting from scratch to do something you love, let me know. I need the help. Where do you begin? Desire? Check. Product? check. Is it useable? check. Will it make me feel that I am contributing something? Check. Check.

Now where do I go from here?

Hang in with me....

2010-01-15T14:37:00.000-08:00

Ok. Pics are coming! Thank you for all your well thoughts. I too am glad that it was not anything more serious. But come on...bushwhacking of your little princesses hair IS SERIOUS. Breathe. Breathe. Ill get the before and after here this weekend.

The VERY SHORT Silver lining

2010-01-09T08:47:00.000-08:00

I knew I should have acted on the prompting I had when I had it....
I knew I should have DEMANDED instead of just asking the Red Flame to go and check on the girls.
I knew better than to let them play upstairs by themselves without one of us being near by.
I knew I should have acted on the 2nd prompting I had and immediately gone upstairs to check...

But I didn't...

So now I join the club of "Mom's whose kids have taken scissors to their hair...and made a mess of it."

Sofia took to the scissors (which she had to literally McGyver to get to...) and took chunks out of hers and Ella'a hair. This followed with an emergency trip to "Cookie Cutters" and the stylist telling me of the many other stories of Mom's whose kids have done the same thing. SIGH.

The short silver lining? Well Sofia may look like a boy, but now I know I like her with long hair better....Ella has patches of hair missing from her head, but being as blond as she is, Im just going to put her in hats for the next few months. And the most important? As my Dad said, it was a trip to the salon and not the E.R.

Now if all this will only sink in enough to make me feel better about the whole thing.

2010

2010-01-01T17:28:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year!

Just wanted to see what the date looked like on the blog....2010. Hope its a good one for you and yours.

kiss

2009-12-30T21:19:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-24T21:05:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-21T11:40:00.001-08:00

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

2009-12-19T15:50:00.000-08:00

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?

2009-12-15T12:45:00.000-08:00

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...

2009-12-11T08:54:00.000-08:00

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.

2009-11-30T21:11:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-29T16:46:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-28T08:16:00.000-08:00

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!