The non-adventures of the Mark Evans Family

A new year, Our Year.

2012-01-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

What to say? We've had a nice holiday season and are amazed that it is another new year. This will be the year of many positive changes for our family. Surely, this must be the year of the job that has taken so long to find. The year of feeling "at home", of feeling safe, of unpacking all those boxes stacked in the garage and not having to repack them for at least a year or two to come. This is going to be the year of countless joys. This is OUR year!
My little girls are getting so big and so independent. I love the stories that Mara tells me, and the words and songs that Audri is learning to speak clearly now. They are both such a delight!
We've been blessed by many little miracles that have helped us through. We have been watched over by angels and led along a little at a time.

Thank you, if you are reading this, for caring and sticking by us. May good things come to you and yours as well!

Tough Stuff

2011-05-23T23:47:00.000-07:00

It's been almost 1 year since Mark was layed-off. One year since Audri was born. One year since we started packing boxes to show the house which left us on constant realtor/house showing alert. We've moved 5 times in 7 months!! It's been a year of uncertainty, unknown, unpredictability, stress, and so many other things nearly impossible to describe, and yet, I've tried to explain when asked. After explaining, I feel I've only burdened the asker, which makes me feel more gloomy. This year of learning has left so many gaps in our lives. I am so tired of:

Not being able to find things lost in boxes.
Being judged
having Mara ask "I want to go home" and not knowing where to drive.
Falling short of all the "should be doings"
Losing deciding power
......!
Boxes
Scratched, painted, mouse inhabited, and ruined furniture from movers and construction projects.
Living in constant construction
not feeling safe/being vulnerable
such drastic changes that are so hard to explain to Mara
not having the answers
......

However hard or out of control life seems on any given day, MOST of the time, I would love to say we are handling it well. YES it is depressing, YES some days feel like there is a permanent black cloud raining over us, yet some how I know it's going to be okay. My, and our, frustration comes certainly in the unknowing.

We have been blessed with so much fun family time, despite the constant shadows lurking. It really is quite impossible to explain all the emotions and dynamics of the situation, and yet I keep trying and fail each time. To those of you who have asked kindly of our situation, this apology is for you! I am sorry to not have a simple answer, to go on and on about it all, and by so doing in anyway placing the burden with you.

For the jar

2011-03-01T21:41:00.001-07:00

We've been trying to potty train little Mara and in the effort, we promised to give her a quarter for every time she sat on the potty. We gave her a small jar, and the goal of going to the movie theater when she has enough. With $6.00 + movie tickets we figured it was fairly balanced goal. She did fairly well the first day and after a couple of tries she had a few coins clinking in her jar.

So I asked her if she wanted another quarter for her jar. "Yes!" was her exuberant reply. "How do you get monies for your jar, Mara?" her answer was "I say PLEASSSSSEE!" in a very cheesy and convincing tone.

It totally cracked us up. I love being a mommy.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-31T21:54:00.001-07:00

We have so much to be thankful for this season, most especially our beautiful girls. Audri is 6 months now and just delightful! Mara is nearly 3 and always inquisitive and telling stories. We have had many angels watching out for us! Thanks to all! Happy holidays!

A change in the winds

2010-11-12T20:08:00.001-07:00

For months I've been putting off writing this, hoping there would be something different to report. Something to say that would make the situation less grim, or somehow cheery. On June 1st, Mark called to say he'd been laid off from his job. I thought he was joking. We couldn't really be without income with a baby so near? Our baby was due on the June 23rd, and came on June 12th. When he lost his job, we were beside ourselves, eerily looking at what had happened wondering "What?!" and "I thought I could retire with that company". It all seemed unreal, and at the same time incredibly unfathomable. Now, 5 months later, after many applications, training, networking, interviews, and follow-ups we are only marginally closer to having income for our family.
On top of no income, we were forced to try and sale our house or foreclose. For months, every couple of days we would get "the call" of someone wanting to see the house tomorrow, today, or in an hour. It was agonizing and mostly torturous every time. We would spiffy, shine and polish until we were utterly worn out, then dash out the door so they could come into our home and curl their lips, raise their brows, and no doubt make uninterested comments about it. We in the mean time would hope, wish and pray they would like it enough to buy it, thus ending the agony of not knowing, of waiting, of no answers. Finally, we got an offer on the house! "YES" we thought, this is it.. this will save us from this miserable game. The offer was too low, and the looming foreclosure date ever closer. More house showings were scheduled, and more inconvenient exits. We thought for months that we were just a number to the bank, and Tuesday this week proved that a million times over. The last we had heard was they were reviewing the offer, and the foreclosure/sheriff's sale had been postponed. Wrong! They had foreclosed the day before without telling us.
That's it, it is final. Whatever dream of staying in this house until we were ready, or moving when it was right for our family... well, whatever. The air in our house reeks of disappointment and discouragement. What could we have done differently? We felt right about moving here, so why all this? What's it about? The new realtor from the bank has been assigned, came to take pictures and verify someone is living in the house. Yes! Living means there are people, who eat, breath and feel! Oh man, do we feel. They asked us to move out on November 24th. (Yes, we are people! Yes we feel! Yes we celebrate holidays too.) We told them that wasn't possible, and arranged instead for us to move on December 1st. It is final, depressing and so indescribable.
Mara and Audri sense it too. I see it in their eyes and feel it in their cuddles. We searched for boxes today. We wonder when things will "Calm down" or be "back to normal". (sigh)

On the other hand, in the last months we have seen miracles daily. Family and friends that have prayed for us have called up an army of angels that have helped us along, and carried some of the burdens. Audri coos and smiles at us and laughs, and the tears in our hearts disappear for a moment. Mara gives luvs, asks us to read her a story, or says " I lus you so much!" in a way that only a 2 year old can and brings joy in to our hearts. We've had listening ears, warm hugs, and kind smiles. There have been supplies provided when we wondered how we would buy them, and my favorite, doors open where there shouldn't have been.

We do know that God hears prayers. That He is almighty, yet He knows our needs and our names. We don't begin to understand the purpose to these last few months or the ones that may come. We lament the loss of so much, and hope just a little that something good will be gained from these experiences.

Baby bee

2010-08-15T23:38:00.000-07:00

Little wonders

2010-08-15T15:08:00.009-07:00

Isn't it so amazing to see God's creations in full color and action!? I am so amazed and blessed by my sweet little girls and wonderful husband who helps me so much with them! Despite the chaos of the last few months, we have been so blessed and we are immensely grateful for it.

Pictures are a bit out of order, but I'll try and tell our story. :)

Sunday, August 15--> afternoon smiles

Packing and preparing the house has been exhausting, especially with Mara undoing all that we just did. I caught Mark taking a cat nap in the office... poor guy!

Family night out. We spent a few hours at the splash pad in the Tempe Market place/mall and then checked out all the best reads in the book store. Mara enjoyed it very much and wanted to read every book she could reach. Mark makes a great story teller too!

Daddy and little chuba baby settling down. Audri was 12 lbs and 13 0z at her doctor's appointment this week (August 10th). She was so brave to get 3 shots, but took it hard later that night. She puked all over when they tried to give her an oral vaccination for rota virus.
Sister secrets
The girls are so sweet together in the mornings. Audri smiles and has begun to "coo"
which totally makes my mornings. Mara is good with her sister, but definitely likes her own time and tells me at least once a day "Mommy, put Audri down." or "Daddy hold Audri?" which is really nice way or putting "get rid of that baby!" Audri has an adorable "oh my heck!" expression where she throws her arms out and scrunches her brow in surprise... it totally cracks me up, but is hard to get on camera. This is my other favorite expression. When I gently blow in her face she does frog/bug eyes. Totally love it! I wonder if the boys will appreciate it when she gets older. Ha ha ha
We went camping the last weekend in July at Ponderosa camp ground with 2 families from our ward. They were so awesome. Mara loved all the new friends that helped her find worms, swing with her, and play in the woods.
They totally helped take care of my girls, and they are amazing families! (Audri on lap, and Mara in the swing)
Except for the down pour of rain that lasted a few hours Friday afternoon, the weather was perfect. We even got used to the GI-normous beetles (june bugs and others) that plagued the camp at nights searching for light. Anybody need a bug collection?

Making brownies for the ward swim party.
See what I drive this man to? He's lying on a bed of nails at the Arizona Science Museum, one of our "let's get out of the house before Stacy cracks" tactics. I've felt awfully confined because of the heat and not being able to take Audri out in it much.

I've told Mark it's time he started pulling his weight around here,... ha ha ha instead he just tried it out at the science museum. "Wahoo!" Mara says
The air vents on the table made the balls "float" in the air, but Mara thought they were better thrown across the room.
Often I get to enjoy both of my girls on my lap, room or not.
Mara found one of Audri's outfits and put it on, it was too short, but I was surprised it even fit her at all... little skinny girl. I was trying to have Audri wake Mara, but Mara just cuddled up next to her and went back to sleep.
Sassy girl

yee haw?
I found Mara asleep the other day in her dresser drawer with all her clothes strewn across the floor. It must have been so uncomfortable, but there she was.

Audri's bug eyes!

Happy Birthday our 2 year old!

2010-05-31T15:01:00.005-07:00

We were so lucky to have Grandpa and Grandma Firth come and surprise us for Mara's birthday. We went to the Renaissance Festival and saw so many wonderful fun things. It was such a fun weekend to celebrate such a fun little girl.
My buddy Aiden came to celebrate with us.
Love to tease Grandpa and Grandma

Watching the jousting with Grandpa Al
Go black knight!
Walking through the old ways village

Happy birthday little girl!

Grandpa and Grandma found us up camping when they drove through the night to come and see us.
"Is that a bug?"
So independent and growing so much.

Florida adventures

2010-05-31T14:15:00.008-07:00

We had such a delightful trip to Florida at the end of February with all the Firth family. Here are a few highlights of our time there. Sisters; Cody, Brady, Haley, Stacy. Brother Dusty had to go home before this picture was taken.Naples beach
Swinging with Stetson
Beautiful day at the beach.

Playing on the beach in Naples
Wave of water
Some of the tropical birds from the dolphin show

Mara really liked how "Shampoo" waggled his tongue at the audience

Taking a rest at the end of the day in Disney World
Peek-a-boo!
Grandma played with me on Tom Sawyer's island
We rode the Dumbo ride with Cody and Stetson
Minnie's look alike Mara
In Minnie Mouse's house
On the ferry to go to Disney World with cousin Seth
Fun fishes at sea world
Grandpa, Mara and Stetson.
Playing in the cupboards with cousin Stetson

Our pretty girl!

We saw some Manitees at a state park

We went swimming at the resort we were at.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T12:53:00.005-07:00

We've had a wonderful weekend together, and not doing anything too out of the ordinary. Mark decided to see if Mara's blessing dress till fit her as we got ready for church today, and besides being a bit too long, it looked gorgeous on her! So we had to take a few pictures. It's amazing how love just keeps growing in our hearts for each other as each day passes. We Hope you feel loved today too!

I sew!

2010-01-25T16:53:00.002-07:00

I've been wanting to sew something for Mara for awhile, and I finally did it! Thanks mom for all the coaching, and thanks Mark for telling me it looks ok. It's a little play apron for her to cook and do art in. Anyways, happy happy day! I sewed and it looks nice...mostly. :)

Winter Fun!

2010-01-25T13:37:00.007-07:00

It's been too long since I updated our blog. Yikes!! Mara still surprises us everyday with new words and sentences. Recent words have been "stachios" (pistachios), "apee-cots" (apricots) and "Skip-churs" (scriptures). We love her littla antics and cuddles. She's learned to tell you where she wants her back scratched... "here" she points with her little hand around her back. She puts her hand on my face or cheek while she trying to fall asleep. She wakes up so cheery too! She woke up this morning and when I asked her what she dreamt about, she said "happy" with a big smile. She's learned to say prayers and promptly folds her arms, and bows her little head when it is time. Yesterday she even did a very tiny whispered prayer and then a big "Amen!" It makes us so happy!

We're also expecting a new baby in June. Hurray, hurray!! Mara often pats my belly and asks "baby?" or sometimes she will put her ear to my tummy to listen. It's been fun. I think she will make an awesome big sister. She follows us around and asks "I help?, I help?". I found her with the broom the other day saying "I helping!" with a proud smile.

We went out to Glendale for a night hot air balloon Glitter and Glow where they inflate them and just burn the torches to let them light up for display and such. This picture was sitting on the edge of one of the balloon baskets. It was a fun night out.

We found a yummy ice cream place and enjoyed some ice cream. Mara kept trading us cones so she got some of all of ours. 1-2-3, Switch!

It was a nice evening with lots of people, street vendor food, balloons and lights.

When we were visiting in Utah, we got some quality time with family. This is Mara, Uncle Chris, and Cameron just chilling. I can't tell which is more ready for a nap. :)

Morning smiles!

Story time with aunt Brady. It was such a huge blessing to have extra arms to help with Mara. I miss having family around all the time, but we are very glad when we get to visit.

Grandpa Al, friend Ryan and Mara set up stables on the table and played for over an hour! They were feeding all the animals, and making sure the corrals were balanced with all the livestock.

Ryan and Grandpa had built all these linking logs in the wood shop! Wahoo! So great to see them enjoying their work and entertaining Mara.

Even though it was mighty cold, we couldn't resist taking a minute to ride on the swing and enjoy the outside cold fresh air of the farm. Mara loves to swing and always gets her "wheeee" going before she even gets on.

Grandma Sher and Mara all bundled to go outside into the cold. We are so lucky to have such neat family!

This is Mara riding a tricycle at Great Grandma's house. Grandpa Al, Great aunt Patti, and Great Aunt Sherrie all cheered her on.

We don't have many pictures of Mara upset, but this one was so cute despite how sad she was. She got a little cold and didn't feel great, and it was probably nap time several hours before and she was pouting that I wasn't ready to go fast enough. Poor thing!

"I help!" she says as Mara helped Brady make yummy cookies.

Showing off her stylin' hair-do. Unfortunately it only usually lasts long enough for a picture and then she tugs it out.

Brady is so awesome to take the time to fix Mara's hair, and Mara remember's that is something aunt Brady helps her with. Yay for cute hair!!

We took a little ride on the snowmobile around the fields at the farm. The snow was coming down enough that hafter a few times around we had to stop because I couldn't see out my glasses anymore for the flurries of snow coming down. It has been such a long time since I've seen that much snow on the farm! It was a great change of scenary from what we see all the time in Arizona. Grandpa David and Mara cracking Christmas nuts on the floor. Mara didn't know why they were doing it, but she wanted to be part of the fun on the floor.

We were able to go up the canyon to the cabin for overnight and played in the deep deep snow the next day. Mara wasn't sure what to think of all the snow, but once she figured out she didn't have to keep her mittens on if I wasn't watching, she was done. It was a short snow outing that day, but at least I got to snow shoe with my sweet husband and little Mara too.

Getting ready.

Mara must be part monkey, if there is a kind as cute as she. She took to swinging on the banister with just one arm. Her little arm socket must have been sore the next day because she did this for a very long time!

Snow ruffled family.

My grandparents, Mara's great grandparents, (not pictured) celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, so as a surprise the family all gathered to ride the Heber Creeper railroad and have lunch. We saw a bunch of deer, some wild turkeys (not counting all the Firth bunch on the train), a fox, a bald Eagle and some ducks. It was pleasant to be with family.

Now clear back to the first week of December, we took my parents to Montezuma's well. It was a really fun outing and we caught some great pictures as well as having a very enjoyable day. Mara enjoyed splashing in the irrigation chanels the indians built from way back when. It has since become one of my favorite places!

Fall faces

2009-12-08T20:52:00.005-07:00

Just a collection of fun Mara moments from the last month or so I'm finally getting around to posting.
Thanksgiving day at the Breshears was so nice and enjoyable! Mara loved the olives on her fingers and the attention from all.

She's learning to drive, although a little layed back.

She looking both ways before crossing the street. Ok not really, but she loves watching the cars and seeing if her little neighbor friends are outside to play across the street.

One day Mara really wanted to carry her baby everywhere, so I made her a little baby sling. She thought it was pretty great and the baby doll seemed to enjoy it too.

Fancy

Sunday best with the first actual hair do that lasted all through church. Hurray!

Mark and Mara went out to a hot air balloon festival one weekend, but they got rained out before they saw any balloons.

They came home tired and all smiles, so I guess they had fun.

"This is a smile?"

My little reading worm. She loves to sit with any book and read.

Always sweet and accessorized.

At night at the Children's Museum

2009-12-06T19:42:00.004-07:00

Phoenix Children's museum has a free night every month for the kids to go experience the fun filled exhibits of the museum. Mara was so excited to see and play with all the fun things! We had such a grand-ulous time! I think we'll go every free first Friday!
She did have a hard time transitioning from one exhibit to the next, because she couldn't understand why we would ask her to leave such a fun thing that she was playing with.

She was so delightful to watch once she figured out the push car to go through the tricycle car wash.

It was so inventive to see some of the exhibits made just for kids exploration.

We loved the noodle jungle! There were probably a thousand swim noodles suspended from the ceiling to navigate through. Mara thought it was a riot!

We are so glad Aunt Brady came to visit and play with us! It was a jungle in there!

When aunt Brady crawled under the little platform with the windows, Mara knew right what to do....

Of course your supposed to put your face on the glass where she is trying to take a picture! We laughed and laughed at her little antics and faces.

Zoo

2009-12-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

We were glad to take Brady to the Zoo, (and then we were extra glad that they let us take her out again!) We got to go see the "sheepies" and the other farm animal exhibits that have been closed for construction for awhile.

"Turkeys!"

Little Hatchling

Two of the prettiest cowgirls ever!

"My friends call me Speed" she says ...Oh this girl makes me laugh!!

The baby Marmoset was really fun to watch as it explored and learned to do what mom was doing.

Down the slide at Yukula caverns. This is normally a splash pad in the summer, but also fun without the water.

Two little monkeys!! This baboon came right over to the glass to talk to Mara. They conversed for a few minutes before it went back to the others.

Brady rode the "yamel" as Mara calls it. I'm sure she was watching other things than those jeans though.

Giraffes are so fascinating, and it kind of looks like they thought we were too.

Little Miss Fancy

2009-10-12T11:18:00.006-07:00

Once we switched hotels on Sunday, Mara was all about exploring. With purse in hand she was off.

It was great to find that after I had packed 3 pairs of Mara's shoes, she had unpacked half of 2 of the pairs of shoes, so all we had, was her little tennis shoes. Oh well!

We met the most delightful couple from Washington that loved watching and assisting Mara play as they waited to check in.

Balloon Fun continues!

2009-10-12T10:33:00.008-07:00

My French friends Kissing bees

Mark has "Stinky" in his hand

This is day 2. The winds were strong and most were advised not to fly. Our pilot chose not to fly, because he said it's not worth the risk. Many of the international balloons went up, as well as many commercial balloons looking to advertise their sponsors. The weekend crowds were huge, especially since there weren't as many balloons flying. They would flock from one balloon to the next as they started to inflate.

One of the French balloons again.

The hords of people flocking to each new balloon.

Big commercial pay-to-ride balloons. We guessed it was probably a long waiver signing away rights in case of injury on windy days.

Sun-up

Dawn patrol/ carrying the US flag for the National Anthem. One of my favorite parts each day.

Zebras in style! Notice his striped beard? (more of day 1 below)

You can barely see this man's tail, but striped end to end!

The green Balloon on the ground is Wizard of Oz

Our Pondemonium caught the box wind and looped back over the Fiesta park. Moon shine is a Utah owned balloon just below.

Mr. Incredible!

"Mass Happiness!" was the theme of the Fiesta. Mark and I both used it in our Sunday lessons we had to teach relating to family and temples.

Creamland cow takes 65 people to crew and inflate.

Smoky the bear, and French balloon I love Nancy

Friday, arrival day. We went to the Balloon park to have Mark volunteer for a chase crew. We wandered through the vendors setting up and out on to the field.

One balloon needed to air out and dry from a previous flight. It was so neat to see our first balloon. Mara didn't know what to think and debated between being close to the "up-up" and being away from the noise of the "hot!".

They were super nice to let us close for a picture once they were through piling everyone in sight on to hold it down while they heated it up to the max so that the Balloon would dry.

Balloon Fiesta -Mark's Birthday

2009-10-09T12:34:00.010-07:00

October 3rd,
Dawn Patrol sets off at 5:45 am to test winds It was a spectacular way to start the day seeing the 8 balloons glow one by one in introduction then glow together in the early morning hours. They lifted off from each end of the line, it gave me chills of amazement!

And Mara slept

When she awoke to see the giant balloons setting up and lifting up around us, she was pleasantly astonished.

Keeping warm was the goal, and I think we did okay.

Mark volunteered to be on a chase crew and was so lucky to have this pilot walk in just as he went to volunteer, needing one crew member. We learned quickly how little we knew about balooning. Each Balloon has a name. Our balloon is called "Pondemonium".

Laying out the tarp and setting up the basket. The other chase crew members were Janet, (mom) and Brad from Minnesota, and the family of the pilot, Al. Dawnna was the co-pilot and led the chase crew with her mom and 2 amazing daughters.

Mark was grinning ear to ear all day with the opportunity to be so close and to help with the chase crew. It was all pretty spectacular!

These are more the commercial balloons, they have huge 8 or so passenger baskets and are about 4 times the size of the balloon we were helping with.

The balloons went in waves, and it was so cool as the sky started to fill with the balloons.

Every time a balloon would take to the air, the crown would cheer.

Mara was all jabber as she saw them going "up up"

There were many special shape balloons, including this Nemo.

The pink one is called "When pigs fly", the one with the pumpkin is called "4 seasons" I think. Each pilot has cards like baseball cards, with a picture of the balloon and info about it on the back to give away. So, we had fun when we weren't helping out collecting cards of some of our favorite balloons. There were over 550 balloons this year, and we didn't get anywhere near that many cards, so I think we'll just have to go back.

This is the Creamland cow, and it takes over 60 people to help set it up to fly compared with the average balloons that require 5 or 6 people. You can see some of the balloons stretched out on the ground ready to get the signal from the Zebra, or Ballooning Official to go cold-meaning, start filling the balloon by fan with cold air before going hot in preparation to fly.

Getting ready to go cold. Mark got to help hold the mouth of the balloon.

Going cold.

Al powering up the fan.

Brad helping to hold the mouth. You can see through the mouth to Dawnna in orange holding the crown line and putting in the top of the balloon so the air will stay in.

Mark and Brad holding the mouth, the top of the balloon being fastened inside.

Happy Birthday Mark!

Some of the balloons going up around us, notice the Pepsi can in the air. Most of these are the international balloons. The jester with arms in the bottom right is a french balloon. The urn looking one might be from Greece I think, and another two from Spain and England. The far left of the picture is the edge of our balloon Pondemonium.

Going hot! They leave the balloon and basket on the ground and as the heat fills the balloon, the balloon will rise and help tip the basket upright too.

Far right is the balloon from Spain.

Waiting the Zebra to tell us time to go.

Mara watching the commotion. Red baron in the background with Snoopy.

Up up! Far right is Pondemonium. Bottom is my favorite french balloon. When I asked one of the frenchman for one of his cards, he told me he didn't speak english. He then told pointed to his cheek and said "kiss" and so I kissed a frenchman to get a baloon card. It was really funny.

Loading the truck and away they go to chase the balloon.

Mark was so enthralled to be so involved. It was wonderful to see him enjoying himself so much. Mara and I had a grand time being so close as well. Pondemonium is the second from the top on the right.

Labor day weekend 2009

2009-09-23T16:48:00.005-07:00

We snuck away to go camping overnight for Labor Day. We found a fabulous little spot, near Globe, AZ that was perfect for Mara to play! We only took the bare minimum, okay, plus a little. We didn't take our tent, and slept instead in the back of our 4X4 Blazer. We didn't take our stove, and were able to build a fire and cook over it. We enjoyed gathering wood, building a rain shelter out of trees, string and a tarp. We played catch with a soft ball and our mitts while Mara was sleeping. Mara was following me around the camp and exploring and started saying "Aw! Aw!", and I didn't get what she was doing until I realized she was copying the crows that were Cawing nearby. What a bright little girl we have! It was so delightful! We really had a grand time! We can't wait for our next adventure heading to New Mexico for the Hot air Balloon festival they have.

Mark's magnificent rain shelter.

Stella bo bella

2009-09-23T16:19:00.004-07:00

It is so amazing to me that Mara is already a year and a half. She says so many things! The other day she was eating a banana, but calls most fruit an apple, and when I asked her what she was eating she told me "ban-apple". She came and asked "want to watch animals" so she could watch one of her little animal videos that she so enjoys.
She loves to read books and she loves to accessorize. Usually we can't go anywhere without her little purses she likes to carry around, and usually a necklace, a hat and shoes to match. She carries her purses around the house, or where ever we are at, taking things out and then putting them back in. She likes to share her toys too. She'll walk the aisles at church giving her toys to grandmas and others in the ward. It works out well, because then I get to talk to more people as they bring the toys back. She has this idea that since we've been in nursery for the last several months at church, that that is where we should be. However, due to some recent and major ward changes, I am not the nursery leader anymore, so she doesn't understand when I take her to nursery, but that we don't stay there to play with the other kids. The ward changes are these: They dissolved all the wards in our stake boundaries, and drew new congregation/ward lines, and released anyone serving in any calling. They called Bishoprics to serve in each of the new wards in the Stake, gave all the wards a new name, and turned the Bishoprics loose to reorganize the entire wards with all callings in 2 weeks. It has been amazing. Everyone at church is "new"! They asked me to serve as the 2nd Counselor in a new primary presidency, when I was sure they would put me right back in where I was as nursery leader and cub scout assistant den leader. I am excited about this change, and glad I will still get to help with the cub scouts.
Mara still enjoys playing with her puppy, Stella. They chase and play through the house, Mara giggles and Stella wags her tail happily.
Mara has become such a little talker! She was playing with some crayons and after several reminders of "we don't put crayons in mouths" and "not in your mouth" I had to take the crayon away from her because it was again in her mouth. She pouted a little and followed me with the confiscated crayon reaching out for it saying "Not in mouth! Not in mouth!" as if pleading for me to give it back as she had learned her lesson.
Anyways, here are a few of many long over-due pictures.

Sept 6th, Day of the Stake changes

New suit, new hat... really good deals!

This picture cracks me up! She loved playing in the little car at a friend's house, but can you see the Ruby Red Slipper under the wheel? She ran over the witch!

Boston Baked Beagle

2009-08-17T23:53:00.009-07:00

Somehow in the last few days the idea came to us that it was time to get a new puppy. We've talked about it for 4 years since we got Mostazzo (Mo). Once we started with the idea we just were fixed upon it until we found an answer, which also came as such a blessing. We searched at several pet stores, not really knowing what we were looking for, but we didn't find the right one. When we got home, we checked the classifieds and found this pup advertised. We emailed right away and were ecstatic when the family picked us to have her. She's a pure bred Boston/Beagle, and she's 18 weeks old. Mark calls her a boston baked beagle... super funny. I have such a clever and funny husband!

When we first brought her home, Mara promptly settled in the dog kennel. I think she thought we got her a new play house instead of a puppy, or just the puppy as a bonus.

So here is our pretty little puppy. She is a sweet little thing, with the cute hound floppy ears. She seems to be utterly fascinated with sniffing things out.

Mara and her were a little unsure of each other yesterday.

She seems to get along with Mo okay. He got snooty all of a sudden though, and thinks he deserves to be in the house if she is going to be. Oh well... :)

I really like her little coat and her colors.

Mara calls both dogs "Mo" now, and asks with upturned questioning hands "where's mo?"

Painting and bed time stories

2009-08-17T23:33:00.004-07:00

So we managed to keep Mara out of the paint, and away from the wet walls the whole project. Mark put away the paint can and the brush after doing the touch ups, and went outside, and the next minute Mara looked as if she had been licked up her face with yellow. She had found the stir stick... oops!
Mara absolutely loves to read books, and generally is soo careful with them. The only books she's ever tore are the pop-up books, and it's probably because there is "extra" paper. I love finding Mark reading to Mara.

Summer

2009-08-10T01:43:00.004-07:00

Life seems to have swept us away in the heat of an Arizona summer. Here are some recent pictures. Mark and Mara pretending to paint the office, they went outside to work on the pool pump, and I got to paint the office. It was fun.

One of Mara's new words is "hat" and she is fascinated to wear her hats, even if just for a minute or two. This one is for Grandpas.

Sharing her toys with Mo, she spends a few minutes everyday just standing at the door calling to him. "Mo? Mo? Come'on Mo? Mo?"

We had to go to the Apple store and Mara was entertained by the little computer set up for kids.

This is at one of the jobsites Mark's company built. There is an amazing man made river that runs all along one side and around that is very theraputic and peaceful.

Mara thinks it is so funny lately to jump and fall down on our bed. This little dress is one of my bargain finds, brand new! Wahoo!

Playing house.

She loves to talk on the phone and wanders saying "hi" followed by bunches of babble that I am sure is stories about mom or something. :) She is such a joy!

Posing

We went to a home show at this huge stadium where they had the super bowl, the roof retracts and the floor is removeable. It was very informative and a great day out. Mara was soo good the whole time, even though we forgot to take a stroller.

This is a Emu-Ostrich mix called a Rhea, that our neighbors have. It's just 3 months old. The say it thinks it is more of a human, and it's very social, at least for now. It was the same size as Mara but will grow to the size of an Emu, I think. Kind of cool! :)

Mara got a new helmet and baby carrier, and when I put them on her, she assumed that is how the outfit went and would only wear them together.
Super funny!!

Y-y-y-yuba lake!

2009-07-19T21:04:00.005-07:00

After the farm we had a chance to go camping at Yuba lake with the Evans'. They were so cute to help with Mara. She had fun playing with the kitty before we went home.

She also enjoyed playing on Nana and Grandpa's stairs, although much steeper than the ones at the farm. We survived without any stair accidents luckily.
We also got to go to the Oquirrh mountain temple open house and it was really neat. I love the peace I feel whenever I go to a temple. Mara seemed to enjoy it as well, but she didn't like waiting our turn to go see the different rooms in the tour.

Sound asleep, out of the wind and sun,

She was absolutely delighted to carry these two buckets all over the beach. She was so tired before her nap that she didn't know whether she wanted sand in them, water in them, or just to carry an empty bucket. She didn't get to play in the water at all. It was a beautiful day to be at the lake.

Mara took special joy in entertaining uncle Chris. She had him carry her here, and there, and smoosh the bugs for her. It was so nice of him to hve to put up with her. ;-) Thanks Chris!

E-I-E-I-O!

2009-07-19T19:07:00.006-07:00

Swinging with smiles with Grandpa Great Granny and Grandpa and "Bapa" on the 4 wheeler. "Is this one that makes it GO?" tranquility

Koi all the way from China..ok well they come from China at least.

Cheep shot! Baby chicken born that day.

Getting ready for a goose chase?

Sitting duck? No geese!

Mara fell asleep on some towells on top of this duffle bag at the lake. When it was time to clean up, it was easier to leave her asleep in the bag baby Moses style.

She was a natural at climbing up and down the stairs.

Mara just loved looking at and playing in Grandma's fish pond, almost as much as she loved being in Grandpa's new swing for his grand babies.
We enjoyed yummy cook out dinners and great company.

Here Kitty, kitty.

"I see you!"

Challenge

2009-05-31T17:02:00.002-07:00

It's good to have challenges and goals, to do more than one has previously done. To be able to expand your horizons and stretch your limits can only be strengthening, right? My friend and I decided to read The Book of Mormon all the way through this summer. Would YOU care to join us in this challenge? :) Here are some helful websites I was excited to find. Reading Calculator, Reading Charts some study guides, and best of all there's me! Let me know how it goes and also keepME motivated. Happy reading!

P.S. If you are reading this and don't have a Book of Mormon, you can read online, or tell me and I'll get you one!

Spring time

2009-05-28T12:36:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Missing in Action no longer

2009-05-28T02:04:00.004-07:00

I’m finally reporting in after a long stretch without updating our website. It seems we’ve been crazy busy, but I bet you are too? Mara has been so talkative and active lately. She always has new bumps and bruises to prove it too, poor kid.
Mara and buddy Aiden

She found some ashes to play in and had drawn a delicate French mustache.

We took a little day trip and found this breathtaking little stream that was absolutely perfect for playing in before the thunderclouds rolled in.
More pictures to come soon!!

Birthday Girl

2009-03-24T23:47:00.005-07:00

My poor little Mara was sick the whole week of her birthday! She didn't feel good enough to eat or do much, so even now we still haven't given her a Birthday cake. Soon. She is almost better and eating things again. She liked being able to tear the paper, even if she was kind of out of it!

Quite the poser too in her new little jammies

Pretty little peacock struttin' her stuff

2009-03-24T18:00:00.004-07:00

Mara climbed up on the fireplace and thought she was so fancy! I was looking through some of my Dominican stuff on Feb. 27th, which is Dominican Independence day, and my Mara grabbed this flag and started waving it. We didn't get to see the costumes and dress up (like Halloween) of the grand parades they have in almost every town, but it was fun to think of them celebrating. Dominicans love any reason to celebrate, and I think that's a grand way to live. I'm not sure why it is that Mara was in the sink.
She is so proud of her walking abilities. She thinks she is pretty hot stuff and claps for herself occasionally.

This is her new "Where's Waldo?" outfit.
"Peek-a-boo!"

So clever! "Chili anyone?"

Steppin' up!

2009-02-27T18:26:00.005-07:00

Mara has started walking in the last few weeks. She started walking on February 10th and took just 2 to 3 steps to get to the videos cassettes she wanted to chew on. She has since gained so much confidence. She is so proud of herself and thinks her new trick is so nifty. She stands by herself a lot, and has started taking a few more steps without mom and dad around to catch her. It's so amazing that my tiny baby is now walking. Where is the rewind button on my baby? This was taken Thurs. night. It's too bad you can't smell the lemons I was juicing, it was such a clean zesty smell that I'm convinced we need a lemon tree, and of course a grapefruit tree too. :-)

Hearts and big lips!

2009-02-27T17:54:00.003-07:00

Happy Late Valentine's day! We got to get away to Prescott for the weekend on the 14th-16th for President's day weekend. It was nice and a new place that seems incredibly idyllic, maybe for someday. Mara thought it was so funny when I stuck her up on the shelf to keep her out of trouble for a moment. She previously had found a packet of instant oatmeal and made it POOF like confetti all over the hotel floor. You can see it on the floor there.

We took a detour to Jerome, AZ which is an old mining town. It was pleasant to walk through the shops and see all the odd and different items.

The real Big lip! Mara's 1st fat lip. She was playing so nicely at the neighbor's until she missed the step and face planted. Ooops! Poor kid anyways. It got a lot bigger than this before it went away over the next day or so.

Asleep at last! Mara has such a hard time going to sleep at night, and sleeping through the night. It's probably because I am doing something or several things wrong. Maybe it is because she doesn't like to sit down and eat much during the day, so she gets hungry at night. She just doesn't want to miss anything. I sure love her though!

Showtime!

2009-02-07T23:53:00.002-07:00

I can't believe Mara is growing and changing so much. She's been babbling for awhile, but one day she woke up and looked around and asked "Dadada?". That day was a first for other words too. "Maamama" for me, and "mah?" for milk. Not to be confused with her dear puppy who gets the most of her word attention- "mao", "wou" and the cutest little panting sounds. She doesn't like "NAINAINI" and gets mad or pouty when she tells me at bedtime she doesn't want to go to bed. Occasionally she'll see "uhh" for up when I beg. "Bah" when near the bathtub and shower, she does like her baths. I did get her to say "pah" for please once too. She is so amazing!! She's also started clicking her tongue too! She loves doing raspberries on any skin surface. The other day I sat down at a meeting with a few other people and Mara promptly leaned over and did a loud juicy raspberry on my arm. She belched out loud in relief society last week, thanks Mark, ;-).
Mara has such a unique personality. My Mara loves to empty baskets, buckets, boxes, and every now again she'll refill them. Her newest trick is unwinding the toilet paper roll, which of course is fabulous because, you know, if you don't unwind it now and again it will get stale, and who wants stale toilet paper?? Be sure to let us know if you can use her unwinding/freshening trick and we'll see about scheduling you in. ;-)

I have an amazing friend that gave me tickets to "The Lion King" Broadway musical that was playing here in Phoenix, and we went to it tonight. It was so phenomenal! I am stunned at how amazing the costumes were and how creative and breathtaking the scenes were. There were some incredible effects! It was nice to get out too. Mark watched Mara and was so sweet about it, and both were well and happy when I got home! It was so incredible, I am convinced there are a few more plays I would like to see this year, and I was completely delighted to see that "Wicked" is playing in July here. I've never actually seen the play, but I love the music. Do you want to come see it too?

About time we update our Blog

2009-01-25T23:25:00.005-07:00

Hello Everyone,

We are still alive, just been busy. This is Mark writing of course so the content won't be too pretty.

Crazy to think we are already almost done with January. Mara continues to grow and amaze us every day. Every so often her gibberish comes out with random words or phrases that you can't tell us aren't real words. She has a couple times in plain english said "I Love You" which just hits us so hard as one of those amazing experiences that make being a parent worth it.

Mara has a penguin for her clothes basket. She realized one night that it collapses and managed to get all of her dirty clothes out of it and climb in it. She was entertained for hours with it climbing in and out and pulling the clothes out and putting them back in.

We found a great hike south of downtown Phoenix that takes you up on top of South Mountain. We worked hard for 3 miles only to get to the top and discover a parking lot and a road that hundreds of others paid a park admission and drove up to see. It was worth earning the view. On the way down we stopped at a little cave between some rocks. Luckily it is warm but still been cool enough that rattlesnakes are hibernated for the time being.

Mara enjoys playing in the cabinets. Don't know if she can top Gracie's sleeping on the shelves but she'll probably try. I wish we had a lazy susan in this cabinet she would probably figure out how to spin herself around on it.

Life has been busy with my work. Prior to and since Christmas there have been a few layoffs at work that obviously can be a little unsettling in todays economy. I feel blessed though, and am still employed and doing my best to keep it that way. We just submitted a proposal last week to do work on a new People Mover system that will be going in at the Sky Harbor(Phoenix) Airport and connect the light rail system to the airport terminals and the airport to the car rental facility. Being a unique type of government work we don't get to find out right away if we get the project, instead they tell us they will let us know prior to(and possibly not until) July 1st. So we wait anticipatingly and continue to pursue other projects.

Phoenix they say is one of the 3 worst hit markets for construction, which originally was just residential, but now it is flowed over into the commercial side which is what we do. It is amazing to work on bids now that a year ago we had to fight to get 3 or 4 bids on each trade. Now we have bids coming in to us from up to and a couple times over 20 bidders in 1 trade alone. It is unfortunate but real side of how construction has been and probably will always be. Survival of the fittest is going on right now(or at least the luckiest). It helps us to have a company that is spread all across the US so other markets that are still doing okay make up for a slow down in Phoenix, etc. I'll spare the estimators rambling at that.

This picture is from the same hike up South Mountain. For those that might think I am sporting a mullet, it is only the lighting, my hair is equally short in the back as on the sides. Mara loved the hiking other than she kept trying to pull herself around my back to see better. She stayed awake through most of it. It helps to have the dog as a back up that every time she gets fussy we just have to whistle and say "here puppy" and she gets this excited look and starts to make a barking noise imitation.

We love you all and just to rub it in for those in the frigid climates where you are tired of the smog and cold and etc, etc, etc. Our furnace turned on the last time over 8 days ago and it has been up to 80 the past week. I don't mind it colder so we can say we at least get to use our blankets a couple of months a year. Yesterday it was so nice that we decided to fill up Mara's kiddie pool and let her swim out on the back lawn(or better said dirt area where grass once grew). She had a blast splashing water all over Stacy and talking with Mo(the dog) who still hasn't figured her out and seems to not realize she's there.

Well it is almost 12:30 at night and I should be in bed, so I shall say buenas noches and hasta.

Tag!

2008-12-11T12:39:00.003-07:00

So I've been tagged to write 7 random things about myself, and por fin, (at last, in Spanish) I will step up and do it. I guess it's a sign I need to write more. :) Thanks Kim.

Here's how to play:
1. Link your tagger (Kim) and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1. I have broken my nose 6 (o mas, or more) times starting when I was 3 years old, and had 3 nose surgeries within 3 years. Two of these were within a month of each other, and only a month before I left to the MTC, and one for Christmas 2 years later, which allowed me to sing the song "All I want for Christmas is my 2 front teeth" but instead of 2 front teeth, it was 2 black eyes and a really fat face. (Maybe that story is the 7 random things all together?)

2. Ever since serving for 18 months in the Dominican Republic where we were forbidden to where nylons or socks much, my toes are incredibly claustrophobic when it comes to wearing close-toed shoes, or generally any shoes at all.

3. I feel like I am competent when it comes to changing a car tire, however, I've only had to use that knowledge 2 times, and both times I was prevented from doing it myself. The first time was within half a mile from my house, and the neighbor helped until dad got there, and wouldn't let me do it. The second time was 3 days after the last/Christmas-time nose surgery. I'd made it 25 minutes from home, when the tire blew out. My face and nose were swollen and black and blue. I pulled out the spare, the jack and the wrench. I was in a skirt, which limited things a bit, and it started to snow full-on Utah blizzard style. I think I still would have done fine, if I could have turned my head upside down to see where to put the jack. A semi-truck driver stopped and offered to help. He took one look at me and proceeded to do it himself, despite my pleas for him to just place the jack and I could take care of it. I was a little fearful for my life as there are always scary stories of truckdrivers. As he was gallantly changing the tire, the highway patrol showed up to see what was going on, and also did a double take at my beat-up face. I could tell he was trying to weigh out how likely it was that the truck driver had made my face look like that. He kept watch from his car until the tire was changed, and I was again on my way, but back home instead of to complete my errands.

4. I enjoy cooking, but am clumsy or distracted at it because I often end up with burns after baking.

5. I just got called to be Assistant Cub Scout Den Leader, which is as foreign as Russian to me.

6. Mark and I hope to adopt a baby from the Dominican Republic someday.

7. I don't like nuts in my ice cream, but I don't mind them in anything else. It ruins the smoothness.

I am tagging Cody, Beth B., Bethany, Heather C.

Picacho Peak

2008-12-01T20:44:00.004-07:00

We decided to spend the day after Thanksgiving hiking Picacho Peak (Peek -a- choo) South of Phoenix. It was pretty tough terrain, but Mara seemed to enjoy riding in the pack.

She fell asleep on the way down the mountain.

This is us, and Mark's parent's and Luz, visiting with them. It was the perfect day for hiking, and I think we are all sore from the incline and switchbacks.

Proud Daddy and happy little Goo
Near the beginning of the hike. We actually made it to the point to the far right of this picture. It was quite a ways, even if it doesn't look it in this picture. Eating rocks on top of the hill.

Up we go.

The view from the top. (or half top... the actually top was a lot of sheer rock and holding cables to make it, and we voted against that ascent this time with Mara in-tow.)

Waving goodbye to Nana and Grandpa.

Up, Up, Up!

2008-12-01T15:47:00.005-07:00

Mara loves to pull herself up now. She starts to bounce and dance as if to say "look at me, I'm so cool!" and just laughs at the cool tricks she can do. Hmm, that must be paper in her mouth. She thinks she is so sneaky. She is so creative too, she delights in finding shiny things to play with and suck on.

She saw this step stool for the first time the other night and climbed straight up it.

Sunday best

2008-11-16T14:16:00.005-07:00

Mara brings such joy to our home and lives. She is the sunshine in our souls. She absolutely loves to play with her Daddy

"Pinned ya!"

Sun, Nov. 16th

We went to the park with some friends and Mara took the chance to take a nap, despite the bustle and noise of the play going on around her.

Book bug

A mess with friends.

"Check out my cute pockets?"

"Yeah, I like them too!"

A little Fame?

2008-11-13T13:52:00.001-07:00

I submitted a picture of Mara for a contest and it was posted on their website. You can see it here.

October

2008-11-09T23:06:00.006-07:00

Oh so big!

1st trip to the zoo with all the neighbor friends! Mara didn't seen many zoo animals, but was still mostly entertained by everyone else.

She's trying to describe the monkeys I think. :)

Packed and ready to go

Does this hat make me look Ewok?

"Here kitty, kitty!"

"Let's put our heads together and see what we come up with."
Cousin Stetson 9 months and Mara 7 months
Great Grandpa LeRoy and Grandpa Al
Grandma's pond Fall out west

Mara learned how to blow a whistle and it was absolutely cute cute!!Kisses for Grandpa Al. While we were out hunting, Mara started flapping her arms and kicking her legs every time the 4 wheelers started. So, when she finally got her ride, she was a happy hunter.
1st Halloween! This is our neighbor, little Jocelyn bat and Mara witch at a Halloween party.
More HalloweenLittle pumpkin in her new favorite place. She loves to empty the books and toys from this cupboard. It's just the right size for her.

Drip

2008-10-11T01:09:00.003-07:00

Our sweet baby has discovered her tongue lately, and has been so entertained and extremely entertaining. It's a wonder we get anything done, as we would much rather just play with her!

Little things

2008-10-11T00:53:00.003-07:00

Cribbed! "I'll be nice, if you post bail?" Little tongue
"I'm thinking about it..."

Mara and Daddy love playing this way with Mara the ocean-cowgirl.

Meet Selene the seal. Sitting up so good!
True words! Doy gracias a mi tia asombrosa que me mando la camiseta tan preciosa.
Entertained by the car sun shade.
Jumpin'
Going turtle.

I've been so amazed lately at the little things that make all the difference. Even the little changes that Mara is making seem monumental. She is every day a treasure to us.

In the Army

2008-09-09T18:26:00.009-07:00

Every new recruit learns to check their gear. Everything appears satisfactory.

Now, stay low and go, go, go!!
Oops, was that the secret, not supposed to push unless there's an emergency detonate button?.....my bad! I hope it was insured.

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-04T22:35:00.008-07:00

San Diego across the bay

Niegel and friend... where's Nemo?

Aunt Natalie took us for a fun walk to the ocean from their apartment, and Mara talked, cooed, and sang as Natalie pushed her along, and finally was soothed to sleep. She missed the whale/dolphin/wild life thingy we saw in the ocean, but since we are not totally sure what it was, it was just as well she slept through it. It was amazing to see the different styles of houses and the great pride that they all take in their yards.

Later on Saturday we went to the ocean. Mark and I both quickly became addicts to the thrill of riding the waves of the ocean with boogie boards. We didn't even mind too much getting salt water up our noses or sand in our suits. It was so much fun!!
Mara slept in her little tent to the soothing sound of the waves crashing in, the birds around, and people laughing nearby.
Mara lovin' the toes.
Asleep, again.

Scott and Natalie showed us such a good time. They were so great to entertain us! Especially Mara, she loved the attention she got from them.

Sharing brain waves.

Covered in sand from head to toe! All of us in Scott and Natalie's fabulous apartment! Natalie has it decorated so cute, you really ought to see it! Our amazing hosts. Oh, what a grand time we had!!

Wizard's duel

2008-08-29T14:55:00.010-07:00

Maybe yuo heard the news about the storm that hit Phoenix last week? It was phenomenal!!
It also looked like an amazing fire-fight with all the lightening. Here are some examples. Hopefully you can envision a small percent of it's magnitude and magnificence. It went on for 3 or 4 hours this way!!

On our way

2008-08-28T02:23:00.002-07:00

"Oh, yes mommy was with us too." :) 1st boat ride at Palisades, ID
Grandpa Al is a great driver
Uncle Jeremy and Daddy.
At the airport again, on our way home to the Arizona oven.

Oh babbies!

2008-08-28T02:16:00.002-07:00

Mara and Lucas ...and Ian watching
...and Stetson both with a mouthful
...and add Quinon, all asleep.
Quinon showing his muscles and Mara too tired to compete.

Grand time

2008-08-28T02:11:00.002-07:00

Mark loved flying my new kite at Palisades.
Doesn't it look like he is laying in the water here??
Are they surrendering the booty?
I think we need a bigger umbrella...

2008-08-28T02:06:00.001-07:00

People we love

Camping at Palisades, ID

Mas

2008-08-28T02:01:00.001-07:00

"Soooooo sleepy" "What's so funny?"
"Is there something on my face?"
a nICE picture
our sweet sleeper girl

What now?

2008-08-28T01:55:00.002-07:00

"Playing with my stunt double" "Well, this is great, but what now?...Do they have cheeseburgers at this joint?"
Hello from the Phoenix airport on the way to Utah
And then on the Front runner train... oh what a day!
Diaper mates, Mara on the Left and Cousin Stetson on the right.

No, really..

2008-08-28T01:50:00.002-07:00

Mara just loves to be helpful, in typing, in holding the spoon while she eats, in many things!! If she's close, she wants to do it too! We've teased about having a little lawn, but Mark really does cut the grass with a weed wacker.
Land of the sun allows for some amazing sunsets.

Missing all of you!

2008-07-24T01:08:00.006-07:00

Love those little eyes!
1st rice cereal! July 18th, almost 4 months old!
"Were you talking to me?"
"Oh, Hi guys!"

Late 4th of July Pictures

2008-07-24T01:02:00.000-07:00

"If you give a mouse a cookie..."

2008-07-22T14:37:00.003-07:00

At our home, we have found life is sometimes like the book , "If you give a mouse a cookie.."

If you have someone break into your house, you will decisively say yes to buying an alarm system when the salesman comes to the door. If you buy an alarm system, you might stay in instead of going out so that you don't accidentally set the alarm off in coming or going.
If you stay in the house, you might notice the air conditioner just doesn't seem to be doing a good job of cooling anything in the 110+ weather. (to the point of whenever you go to someone else's house and it is cooler than yours, you assume they are paying through the nose for their A/C bill, when really yours is just not working.) Of course one wouldn't notice the A/C wasn't working until running through the house trying to get a husband packed for a scout camp on a Friday afternoon. When the husband goes on his way to scout camp, you realize it is 2:30pm on a Friday, and there's not likely a way to get someone to fix it before the "weekend" that has already mostly arrived.
If you call the A/C company to send a tech out, you think they are super nice for having consideration to send them within a few hours, because of the little baby situation. When the tech does get on the roof, he will tell you the A/C should never have passed inspection when you bought the house a year ago. Thinking of buying the house a year ago reminds you, that you also purchased a home warranty to cover just such a thing, and then remember the warranty expired a month ago. Then the tech will tell you that the A/C is a very old tank, which will remind you of the time you drove a tank in WWII, oh those were the days.. The tech will also tell you that he has never heard as many short circuits happening in an air conditioner quite like that before, and one could see the fear in his face as he said it. If you see the fear in his face, you will certainly think of the fear of seeing the cost for a new A/C unit, which is completely unavoidable at this point. ...
When one thinks of unavoidable, one might also think how the baby is growing up way too fast, and rolled over for the first time on the floor at the back of primary the weekend the A/C was out.
If one thinks about weekend, one remembered that there were visitors coming from out of town and the guest bedroom needed to be made ready for the following weekend. In making the bedroom ready, one will empty a box of picture frames and shelf things that hadn't quite made it to the shelves in the year since one moved, and in checking to make sure the box was truly empty, one will find a dead scorpion there.
Upon finding a scorpion one will holler and make a fuss and then not make a single peep about it when the visitors come.

We hope that this is THE END ...

Ever growing

2008-07-14T01:22:00.002-07:00

We have so enjoyed the recent weeks with Mara as there has seem to be a lot of firsts, (not to be confused with a lot of Firths). She is almost always content and happy. It's so wonderful to be with her and spend the days together. Swaddled and ready for bed. I love that she still loves to be swaddled at night. She will often kick her feet free by morning and her hands have to be near her face, but it's fun to snuggle up to my little Bug.
She also enjoys her playmat, and this hanging hippo is one of her favorite toys.
She has been enjoying tummy time a little bit more each day and is showing how strong she is to hold herself so well.
Bath time is always a favorite, and pool time is getting more fin for her and with her.

Always in motion.

"Ya got to move it , move it!"

2008-06-23T14:55:00.002-07:00

Mara has been so thrilled to take her baths lately. It was like the RiverDancers! Her little feet were going like crazy! She's curious enough in the camera, that sometimes she becomes quite the little poser. We've taken her out to the pool a few times, but she is not quite as mobile in the pool yet.
She seems to enjoy her new little Bumbo chair, so that she can sit up and see things, but isn't quite sure what to do once she is sitting there.

Just chillin'! We love the cool affect the nursery seems to have, even on the scorching hot days, it seems cooler in our arctic room.

3 Months old!

2008-06-23T14:42:00.003-07:00

I can hardly believe that Mara is already 3 months old. She is such a gem. She loves to put her hand on her head when she is eating, and really loves if I tickle her head. She even will grab my finger and keep my hand by her head too. She also is starting to laugh a little. I love when she wakes up from a nap, and finds my face when I go to pick her up. The joy in her expression warms me completely. It is so amazing to be a mom!

Mara playing with her octopus as Daddy naps nearby.
Oooh!
New dress, new dazzle-y bracelet, and using my new chair.
It looks like it is naptime.

Camping by Mark

2008-06-15T22:16:00.007-07:00

Mara wakes up to the fresh cool air at Sharp Creek Campground, 20 miles out of Payson, Arizona(1 1/2 north of Phoenix). We had a fun trip taking Mara camping for the first time. She did well and it was nice to get out of the heat.

Mo tagged along and did okay until 3 in the morning when some animal out in the woods and people coming to the bathrooms near our campsite got him barking. I had to get out of the warm sleeping bag and walk him to the Blazer to get him to quiet down. He was in heaven of course, wandering around with all the new scents and places to explore that wasn't trapped in like his backyard home.
After taking it easy and resting for the morning, enjoying the 70's temperature. We headed east on the highway up to an area called the Mogollan Rim(? on spelling). It is a literal rim of rocks along the mountains that drops down from the higher plateau to the mountains below. The road climbed several thousand feet quickly to put us on top. We enjoyed a stop at a lake and took a hike. Unfortunately it wasn't a very secret fishing spot and was packed with tons of fishermen who weren't very clean so there was trash all over. Other than that it was a beautiful location.
There are a system of trails running along the rim that you can hike the whole way or between scenic view parking lots. On our way back from the lake we stopped and Mo and I took a walk for about a mile. I got video of Mo walking to the edge of these rocks. What you can't tell from this picture is the wind is blowing about 30-40 miles an hour into us so it was an eery feeling trying to walk out on the rocks having a hard time keeping your balance because of the wind.

View through the trees of the lake at the west end. The lake must have continued a little bit more around a corner, because while we were stopped there must have been 15-20 boats or canoes that came towards us from this direction.
I did some quick math counting the rings on this tree. It had to have been at least a hundred years old.

We stopped to take pictures several times, each time Mo would zoom in and out of the picture pursuing some scent or chasing chipmunks as far as the leash would allow.
Obviously coming back into the valley we quickly forgot about jackets and stored them away only to dream of cooler days again if we survive the heat of summer.
I decided to scrub off the carbon deposits on the underside of the dishes, very focused work, hence the stupid grin.
Mo during one of the few times he stopped the whole hike, must have been an animal he was watching off to the side . Before we took this picture Mo thought he would try to climb down the rock behind us(about an 8 foot drop). He slowly studied it and was trying to grip the rock and started sliding. Luckily he had me on belay and the rope stopped him semi dangling in the air as I pulled him back up by the harness.

Momma Stacy and Mara, taking a rest and wondering why I am taking a picture of them.

Completeness

2008-06-10T01:20:00.003-07:00

There was a part of my life puzzle that was missing until just recently. I had no idea how much I had wished, longed, hoped, and prayed for a day to bless our new baby and celebrate the miracle her life brings us each day. My heart rejoices to have her near and watch her grow. I had only ever hoped there could be such joy as we have discovered having Mara in our lives. There was such amazing feelings that poured over and through us on her blessing day. It was completely amazing. Thank you to all of you that could be there. We missed those of you who were not there, but felt your hearts with us. Thank you for your help in making the day possible and such a success.Getting ready to go.
Everybody
Little Angel. I find it significant to say that the dress was made by my mom from the remaining fabric from my wedding dress. There was only one remnant piece big enough for her dress, but it was exactly the right size to make it. It was really special.
We are grateful for the priesthood!
Our little family.

baby grows

2008-06-03T10:54:00.001-07:00

Watching

2008-05-17T01:02:00.005-07:00

Each day we seem to count our blessings with Mara in our lives. She is just so delightful. We recently observed her diligently watching the fish in the swing mobile. She is starting to trigger the music in her bouncer when she kicks her feet, primarily the right foot, and then it plays a song for her when she does. She is so animated about it too! It really makes each day so great with her in our lives.

Expressions

2008-05-14T02:42:00.010-07:00

It is soo much fun to watch Mara watch things. She is getting more interactive everyday. She has started to figure out a few things, like when she kicks or moves in her bouncer chair, it triggers music. She smiles and then kicks more. She is very entertaining.
One of her beautiful smiles.

8 weeks

2008-05-14T02:23:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite times of day, to feel her cuddle up so little and go to sleep.
"I am super strong!"
Smiling more these days.

"So smart!"

Whatever floats your boat

2008-04-30T09:12:00.002-07:00

I just love when her little tongue gets moving!

We put Mara in this little boat and she seemed to really enjoy the rocking motion. She even fell asleep after a few minutes. We had water in the bottom of the boat for a few minutes and she enjoyed it, but it got too cold for her.

Mara moves

2008-04-30T08:47:00.002-07:00

1 Month old

2008-04-26T15:04:00.004-07:00

Mara has shown a lot more personality lately. She is so alert and happy most of the time. Mark continues to be soo good with her and we continue to learn and grow each day about this little girl's needs.
Mara loves to get her little tongue moving. She has several expressions I am sure she learned from Aunt Brady, even though they haven't met yet.

Who says little girls can't look great in blue? She loves to take baths and shower with mom or dad. Even the sound of the water really seems to sooth her. Getting her out of the water is the issue.
We had a date night wandering around a really decked out sporting goods store. (That's about as much excitement as we can handle, and as close to the "wilderness" as we can get in this huge city!) There were live fish in the river running through the store. It was pretty cool.
Mara is content to lay in her crib and stare down some of her stuffed friends. She already stared down the sheep.
"Thinking of a plan..."
"But how did it get up there?"
"Daddy lost. I'm still awake."

Atentamente

2008-04-15T15:32:00.004-07:00

I can't bear it!
I am amazed everyday at how sweet Mark is with Mara. He is such an amazing Daddy!
Sling and Swing--> Our ward had a country dancing activity night, and since Mark and I are on the activities committee we thought we should be good examples. So I put Mara in this super-comfy sling, and we all danced the evening away. It was great fun to two-step and line dance! Mark did really well and we are considering turning our great room into a dance floor a couple times a week to get some more practice in.Sunday, after church.
Sleeping beauty.

Mara & Lucy --> We had a lovely visit with the Breshears and were able to meet their new puppy, Lucy too.

Mara-villa

2008-04-09T01:19:00.005-07:00

Shhhhh!
"Well, grandpa said I didn't have to."

Monday, April 7, 2008

More of Mara

2008-04-09T01:03:00.003-07:00

4 Generations!
All clean!
I'm watchin' you!
I know sign language! Aren't I soooo smart?

Eyes for Daddy!

"These are a few of my favorite things..."

2008-04-04T14:41:00.003-07:00

Can you picture Julie Andrews singing of her favorite things? I feel it doesn't come close to how I feel about this new little baby girl in our lives! It's hard to put into words how many times a day I think how blessed I am. I have quite a debate everyday to decide what it is I love most about being a mom. I love Mara's expression-filled face and vibrancy the first thing in the morning. I love how she watches me and the things around her as she eats. I adore how she curls clear up with her little bum sticking out when I put her up on my shoulder. I love falling asleep with her next to me. I really love seeing Mark with her and watching the love grow in his eyes. She idolizes him too. She turns so cleverly to his voice. It all seems such a miracle to have her here. Life is so tender and precious!

Tiny Bubbles

2008-03-31T12:35:00.010-07:00

Once when I was in high school I saw a guy competing for the "Mr. [whatever] High" pageant title, tap dance to a song about tiny bubbles as bubbles floated down all around him. It was comical but I don't think he won the title. Now, it is the tiny bubbles that are keeping my beautiful Mara, and this new mommy awake at night. I just can't seem to get her bubbles out. Can you share any mommy secrets that I have picked up on yet?

Smiles

2008-03-27T13:02:00.004-07:00

Life has been so grand these last few days! We just love this new little miracle in our lives. She is such a complete joy! She has so many facial expressions and is very attentive and alert when she is awake. She figured out last night that she could suck on her hands, it was cute as can be! I'm 1 week old today! March 27, 2008
Grandpa Al liked my tractor outfit.
I love to watch Grandma!
Oh, does it really have to be bed time??

Mara en el mar

2008-03-27T12:33:00.004-07:00

Look at that!
A wink and a smile!
Daddy's arms are the best!My first home bath with Grandma Sherry.

Easter blessings

2008-03-24T00:33:00.006-07:00

We are so grateful for the blessings of our little Mara Sage! What better way to celebrate Easter and remember than in seeing her new little life so full of wonder. It is so fascinating to see her study the little things as she has become more alert and attentive to what is around her. I look into her eyes as she looks about and wonder what secrets she knows about Our Heavenly Father from where she just came. Easter is about the new life that we all will have because of the atonement and resurrection, and my heart is full of peace and gratitude for this.

Essence of Heaven

2008-03-22T23:00:00.006-07:00

The last few days have been so completely amazing and I can't believe our little baby is finally here! At the same time, I can't imagine having existed without her beautiful little self. She is such a perfect little baby!! If there was something tangible that could describe what heaven is like here, I would have to say it is the feel of a newborn baby! We can't wait for you to all meet her.

Daddy didn't mean to chop off the nurse's head, she was very nice. Baby Mara was getting all of his attention . First Bath at 4:30 am 3/21

Burrito baby sleeps
Home on Saturday about 1:30pm.

Look at those muscles!