Regular Apple Juice

Home Stretch

2011-08-16T17:03:00.000-07:00

Ahh...San Francisco! Every time I go there to retrieve my heart, I end up leaving it there again. This trip was no exception. We could resist slipping in this last little trip on our way home. We loved eating the best burgers ever in the Ferry Building, strolling below the Bay Bridge and city lights at night, eavesdropping on a wedding at the Palace of Fine Arts, gazing at and then crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, and catching lunch at a little Mexican joint in Sausalito. We hated to leave, but finally had to in order to make it home by 3am! What a trip!

California, Here We Come!

2011-08-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

This is the longest posting of the longest road trip ever! That's what happens when you're having the best summer ever. But all good things must come to an end, and these last couple posts should take us there. Once we had driven as far as we dared go, we realized we had to turn around and come back home. And since California was on our way, we thought we'd stop and say hi to more of our favorite people. My sis is the hostess with the mostest, and we had a blast staying with her for a few short days. Here's what we're so glad we didn't miss:

A visit to the George Oliveri Salon

A perfect evening eating yummy burritos on the back patio

Lots of girlie time with cousins

A glorious trip to Seal Beach

Picnic at the park in Cerritos

Joe's Italian Ice in Anaheim

Finding the secret viewing spot for the D-land fireworks

Fish tacos and arcade games at Shoreline Village

Dinner with some favorite friends (no pictures again!)

The Valley

2011-08-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

After our frolic in Flagstaff, we descended into the Valley of the Sun, where it was too damn hot to do anything, including take pictures. I was able to capture a couple moments, which make every trip to the homeland complete...

Snuggling under Grandma's quilts --

And visiting Grandpa's ranch --

From this quick trip, we'll also remember hangin out with Price cousins, celebrating Krysta's birthday with my dear friend Isa and her fun family, Jane's first quilt she made with Grandma, dinner and game night at M&K's, and a late night viewing of Harry Potter.

Cousins, Cousins, and More Cousins

2011-08-03T15:33:00.000-07:00

The whole reason we started on this venture in the first place was to get us to, where else, but Flagstaff, Arizona. It was there that descendants of Alta Marie Castleberry Westover Winfield were gathering for a family reunion and we didn't want to miss out on all the fun. And fun it was! Here are the highlights from our days spent in the shadows of the San Francisco peaks, among the Ponderosa pines:

*Staying at the Little America Hotel, where we took full advantage of their swimming pool and playground

*Family lunch & good times at the Riordan Mansion State Park

*Touring the mansion with Jane & Annie...I'm moving in!

*Hangin out with lots and lots of cousins

*Breakfast at Rogers Lake where grandma spent time as a young girl

*Celebrating Grandma Westover's 67th birthday at Oregano's

*Remembering how beautiful Arizona really is, and how awesome family is

Family, Friends, Ice Cream & Hoodoos

2011-08-02T21:32:00.000-07:00

We left Idaho and moved on to Utah where we were reunited with more friends and family. The big highlight of the trip was meeting our new cousin/nephew, Noah. John's sister's family recently returned from China, where they adopted him. We loved getting to spend some one-on-one time with him, getting to know his playful personality. Other Utah highlights include:

*Morning jog on the Cougar Campus
*Movies 8 with Henries
*Hooking up with old roomies (so sad I didn't take pictures!)
*Hangin out at B&L's
*BBQ with family & friends
*Late night Settlers with the Riries
*Stroll around the BYU botany pond
*Provo shopping
*Thanksgiving Point & Iceberg
*Henries Drive-In in Panguitch
*Bryce Canyon

The Road Trip Begins...

2011-07-29T12:31:00.000-07:00

First stop...Boise, Idaho. Six months ago our best friends and neighbors left us for better real estate on the other side of the Blue Mountains. We couldn't let this summer go by without a visit to see them in their new digs. They were such great hosts, I think we'll be knocking on their door for many more summers to come.

The kids had a blast, eating and hanging out...

The moms had a blast, shopping and crafting...

Even John didn't mind a little outdoor recreation and BBQ at the lake...

Let the Good Times Roll

2011-07-26T22:06:00.000-07:00

Three days ago we returned from the Mother of all Roadtrips, so rather than writing the Mother of all Blog-posts, I think I'll break it up a bit. And I'll spare the gory details of the puking, diarrhea, unbearable heat, infestation of various insects, and general irritability due to lack of sleep and a slight overdose of family togetherness. And just in case someone happens to read this and says, "What?! They came here and didn't even stop by to say hello!"...please accept our sincere apologies. It was a whirlwind tour of the Wild, Wild West and we tried to cram as much in as we could while still actually enjoying our summer vacation. Overall, it was a raging success!

The good times started the day before we left with a birthday celebration for our favorite 7-year-old. Though not part of our roadtrip, July 6th was the day that the party got started, considering that our bags were already packed. We did our usual birthday donuts for breakfast, followed by a treasure hunt for the birthday girl to find her cute new bike. For lunch we ate outdoors at the Hoyt Arboretum with friends and spent the afternoon at the Children's Museum. We wrapped up the day with ice cream sandwich cake and present opening. A fabulous day to celebrate this cute, smart, independant, fun, ambitious, helpful, sweet girl!

4th of July & stuff

2011-07-05T14:56:00.000-07:00

I just LOVE summer! It's been another fabulous, fun-filled week. Although the late nights and lack of structure are starting to catch up with me, I have been so delighted to see my kids engage in all things summery. Here are this week's highlights...

Playing with friends

Swimming at the Clackamas Aquatic Park

$1 movies

Exercising at the high school track

Hosting a baby shower for a friend

Getting a brand new front yard (thanks to John and some awesome friends)

Cars 2 at the drive-ins

Getting wet in the backyard

4th of July picnic at the park and fireworks with friends

And somehow we also squeezed in trips to Target, Costco, Joann, fulfilled church calling duties, did a thousand loads of laundry, haircuts, groceries, triathlon training, cooked very little, and ate too much. No wonder I'm tired. Bring on some more!

Ahhh, summer!

2011-06-26T09:03:00.000-07:00

If summer was only a week long, we just did it right! Our first full week of summer was everything the season should be --

*Swimming lessons

*Late night s'mores & trampolines with friends

*Planting flowers

*Summer library performance

*Strawberry pickin' & jam makin'

*60 "Cool Ties" made to send to Japan

*Dilly bars & Frosties

*Boys camping & successful fishing trip (8 caught!)

*Girl party w/ nail painting, late night movies, & yummy food

Rad Dad

2011-06-20T09:07:00.000-07:00

Let's be honest. Father's Day. Not that much different than any other Sunday. In fact, I've often thought that we should just combine it with Super Bowl Sunday, or at least stick it somewhere in the middle of football season. But this year I realized what Father's Day is all about. It's not just a day to celebrate dad's awesomeness, but a day that Dad gets to do whatever he wants...100% GUILT-FREE. Besides the usually showering of gifts and homemade cards, these were yesterday's highlights...

Orange rolls for breakfast, cinnamon rolls for lunch, ribs for dinner

George's original acrostic poem for John: Delicate Amazing Dude

John showing off his dad-skills by fixing our fireplace! (I think we'll actually need it this summer)

Nearly getting all of the red marker out of the carpet after Lizzie created her own Father's Day mural just before church

Watching old home videos from when John was a brand new Daddy

Sharing our Father's Day lemon cheesecake with friends who stopped by for a surprise visit

I can't speak for John, but definitely one of my best Father's Days ever.

Waiting...

2011-06-17T15:09:00.000-07:00

When will the big kids get home? When will summer be here? When will the sun come out? When will I update my blog? Today's the day!

Chat with the Big Guy

2010-12-19T14:37:00.000-08:00

George's Wish List: electric scooter, Aquos Snapzoid, Nintendo DS

Jane's Wish List: gum, notebook, pen

Annie's Wish List: butterfly wings for my baby, dress-ups, ponies -- whatever I'm in the mood for the day you ask me.

Lizzie's Wish List: cardboard boxes, wrapping paper, candy canes -- anything, as long as I don't have to get too close to the guy with the beard.

Grandma & Grandpa are Crazy

2010-12-17T08:54:00.000-08:00

You'd think John was their only child or we had the favorite grandkids or somethin'. And this doesn't even count the half a car load they sent home with us at Thanksgiving. Who needs Santa?

Christmas Books

2010-12-15T13:54:00.000-08:00

While scrubbing toilets and tackling mountains of laundry wasn't the most exciting thing to come home to, this holiday tradition that John faithfully kept up while I was away was a delightful sight to come home to. I'll be sad ten years from now when my kids are too big to gather 'round Dad for their nightly Christmas story.

Girl Party

2010-12-14T07:59:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a girls trip to get you goin' again. I ran away to sunny California and had the most fabulous weekend with these ladies -- Disneyland, shopping, mani-pedis, chatting, laughing, celebrating, and eating...oh, the eating...churros, Monte Cristos, fat peanut butter cookies, Monte Cristos again, paninis, Domineco's, Joe's Italian Ice, tri-tip and red velvet cake! Now it's time to get back on the treadmill and learn how to be responsible again.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-30T21:05:00.001-07:00

September in Seattle

2010-09-29T15:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a thoughtful husband and generous relatives, we got to spend the weekend in Seattle! Friday we ferried to Bainbridge Island and explored the Gazzam Lake Trail, then returned to the mainland for pizza at Pegasus.

Saturday we hung out with cousins, played with some farm animals, and lunched at Chipotle. Then John and I ditched the kids for a magical night with Harry Connick Jr. at the Chateau Ste. Michelle. It turned out to be a perfect weekend. Thank you Robisons!

Hiking

2010-09-15T16:27:00.001-07:00

So, it turns out that Oregon is quite the land of beauty. After almost 3 years as residents, we finally discovered some of its hidden treasures. On Labor Day we found a fun little hiking spot right in Portland with lots of "camping trees", as Jane calls them. Perfect family outing, not too far from home...

Then on Saturday we met up with my long lost cousin, Scotty, at the Trail of the Ten Falls. We saw lots of caves, trees, moss-covered rocks, sticks, and wet shoes, but just one waterfall -- the kids had way too much fun with my cousin's kids along the quarter-mile of the trail that we actually did cover. One down, nine to go.

School Rulz

2010-09-07T23:17:00.000-07:00

As sweet as summer is, does it really get any better than the first day of school? Oh what a blessed day! Highlights for the 3rd grader were meeting a new friend named Brandon, getting to sit on the bouncy ball chair all day, and the prospect of getting to learn cursive, multiplication, and fractions this year. Little Miss 1st Grader couldn't wait to share the book she made about her first day and loved riding the bus with and being in the same class as her BFF. It's gonna be a good year.

Summer Recap #9: Finale

2010-09-07T22:49:00.001-07:00

We filled our days with swimming lessons, cooking class, trip to Utah/Aspen Grove, birthday luau, cub scout camp, camping, friends, parks, berry picking, swimming/biking/running, free movies, library, crafting, beach house, theater camp, garage sale, snack sales, drive-in movies, Sellwood pool, laughing, dancing, playing, fun-in-the-sun! These are the days I hope to remember...

Summer Recap #8: Getting Wet

2010-09-06T21:47:00.000-07:00

The bummer about summer in Oregon is that there are only a handful of outdoor pools in the greater Portland area. So we make do with swimming lessons, our backyard kiddie pool, and a few splash parks nearby to get our water fix during the two months out of the year that it doesn't rain here. But a couple weeks ago we discovered a hidden gem located in one of Portland's "cool" neighborhoods -- an outdoor pool that's been around since 1910. Back then they had to switch off days that boys and girls could use it. Fortunately for George we didn't have to leave him home for the "girls only" swim day.

Summer Recap #7: Theater Camp

2010-09-06T21:36:00.000-07:00

In August, George and Jane got to participate in a MCT production of "The Tortise and the Hare". It's amazing that they pull off this big musical production in just one week! They both had parts as members of the Curly Hare Fan Club and now they're big fans of the stage and can't wait to do it again next year.

Summer Recap #6: Beach House

2010-09-05T21:36:00.000-07:00

We couldn't resist revisiting this perfect weekend getaway with our favorite Washingtonians. Strolling through town, eating black licorice ice cream, driving on the beach in search of dead creatures, dining on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, finishing the puzzle, enjoying some peace and quiet, shopping at Jack's, Katie killing John in a Vernor's belching contest, laughing hard and eating loads of junk food were among the highlights. Long Beach, you have a special place in my heart.

Summer Recap #5: Swim, Bike, Run

2010-09-05T20:52:00.000-07:00

When I first moved here I met all these crazy ladies who liked to run marathons and compete in triathlons and I said to myself, "I am NOT gonna be one of them." People take their exercise way too seriously here in the land of clean air and the home of Nike. Lo and behold, my friend talked me into trying out one of those baby triathlons (1/2 mile swim, 12 mile bike, 5K run) this summer and I have to admit that now I'm hooked and can't wait to do it again. What's so cool about it, you ask?

You get to transition through three different events, so you're never bored with just one...

You get your very own fan club...

You get to train with these awesome ladies...

Your kids think you're super woman...

Summer Recap #4: Camping

2010-09-04T22:13:00.000-07:00

In July we stuffed the minivan full of everything from our garage that we never use and headed up Mt. Hood to become one with nature. It was a short-lived adventure -- was it even 24 hrs? -- but filled with good times with good friends and even a celeb sighting at the DQ (who knew Matthew Fox was a fellow Oregonian?!). We toasted marshmallows, slept in tents, cooked breakfast over an open fire, hiked around the lake -- your basic camping stuff, but considering I have a husband who is not a lover of camping or anything dirty, these were major breakthroughs. Maybe we'll even do it again next year!

Summer Recap #3: Life with an 8-year-old

2010-09-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

Although his birthday was months ago, George is totally 8 now. And this blessed summer season has given me ample opportunity to discover what being eight is all about. So fun. He's learned the art of sarcasm and potty humor, he talks incessantly about Bakugan or Super Mario Bros., or whatever the craze of the week is, and the word, "duh", has become a regular part of his vocabulary. On the upside, he's totally stoked about cub scouts, he gets all his jobs done at the crack of dawn, he's rarely in a bad mood, he takes care of his little sisters, he tells me when I look pretty, his dad is still his best pal, and he's still not too cool to hold hands with Jane. So, despite the eightness, he really is a fabulous kid.

Summer Recap #2: Celebrating Jane

2010-09-02T13:38:00.000-07:00

With only one summer birthday in the family, we tend to draw out the celebrating over the course of a week and usually in more than one state. We started with a traditional backyard bbq, B&L style, on the 4th of July with all the Westover cousins. It's only appropriate that we celebrate the birth and independance of our nation in conjunction with that of our own little firecracker! On the 6th was her golden birthday and we had a quiet celebration at home in honor of our favorite six-year-old. Traditional birthday donuts for breakfast and a treasure hunt to find her gifts, were among highlights of the day. A few days later she invited a bunch of her friends over for a Hawaiian Luau. This girl certainly knows how to party and she always gives us something to celebrate!

Summer Recap #1: Utahr

2010-09-01T14:19:00.000-07:00

Our summer isn't complete without a return to the motherland. We love reuniting with family and friends, indulging in fry sauce and ice cream, cruising down University Ave, and revisiting old hang-outs. This year we were introduced to a part of Utah we hadn't met before -- a quaint little retreat known as Aspen Grove, just behind the majestic Mt. Timpanogas. I wish I could say that we became good friends, but while the views were breathtaking and the company was more than pleasant, the food poisoning and mice infested cabins gave us more of an adventure than we had bargained for. On the upside, the 2-day death-bed sickness still left us plenty of time to enjoy the pool, tennis courts, mini-golf, ropes course, pottery bridge, and fun family games. And at the end of the week we retired to the B&L Hotel, where the service is impeccable, the food is always delicious, and the rooms are rodent-free. Among the highlights were trips to the BYU Bookstore and the University Mall, reuniting with T&A, playing with cousins, hanging out in the backyard, picking peas, bbq-ing, listening to Carrie Underwood and watching fireworks.

Farewell Summer

2010-09-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

I've had a hard time accepting the fact that this is really the end. Already? But alas, we go to meet the new teachers this afternoon and the calendar tells me it's time to take down the Westover Summer Fun Center (inspired by this mama). Hopefully it will be used for many more fun-filled, summer days in the years to come.

Hello Summer!

2010-06-19T07:20:00.000-07:00

Even though the sun has only been making the occasional appearance around here, looking back at the pictures, I'm realizing we've had some very early summery/end of school yeary days. Here are the latest happenings in the Westover household...

Miss Jane passed kindergarten! And with flying colors and the best teacher we could ask for again -- she always makes you feel like your kid is the favorite.
John and George "Ran for the Roses" a couple weeks back. George ran a 2K and placed 4th in his age group (kids 8 and up) and John showed off his sexy legs in the 5K.

Memorial Day was cold and rainy, but we still made it to the morning service at the local pioneer cemetery.

Annie, Lizzie, and I joined Jane's class field trip to the Portland Zoo!

For some reason, Annie's way into the pajama tuck-in these days. She is one fun girl to be around.

Lizzie spends a lot of time in this chair lately to keep her out of trouble...

Speaking of trouble, these girls decided to find some a few weeks back when I mistakenly handed them a nice new pair of shiny, sharp scissors. This is them doing penance, emptying the dishwasher and looking very remorseful with their new haircuts.

Pre-haircuts...

Jane's Kindergarten music concert in May -- mostly singing, but each class took a turn on the xylophones. How else will they learn what X is for?

George had a swingin' baseball season this year. Even though most of the games got rained out, we had fun with lots of friends on the team and John assistant-coaching.

Lizzie is almost 15 months old and wishing she could play outside and eat dirt all the time. It's time for her to take more that 5 steps at a time and give her knees some relief. She is an absolute delight, most of the time and we all can't get enough of her.

We will gladly kick all these kids out of George's bed for anyone who wants to visit this summer!

Breathe

2010-05-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

There's really no getting around the serious neglect of Regular Apple Juice. In fact, I think a more appropriate title for it would be "No Time to Blog". But after an exceptionally busy pre-Mother's Day week, I'm feeling like I finally have some time to breathe and I thought I'd take a few minutes to play catch up...

Friday night I hosted a baby shower for my good friend, neighbor, & soon-to-be mother of 6!

Hawaiian Day at school on Friday. How delighted I was to find this vintage fabric in my stash...

George's Turbo Gator rocked the Pinewood Derby last week. Not a top finisher, but definitely had character and the most spirit, thanks to flags the girls made to support big brother...

I ran away to Utah last weekend for BYU Women's Conference with the Westover ladies and a fun wedding with the Price/Arnett clan...

Annie will tell you she's a ballerina now, since she finished her ballet class at the Y a couple weeks ago...

Hooray for Arbor Day! We planted trees because there just aren't enough in Oregon...

Crazy, happy, adorable, baby Lizzie. Now I remember why I don't usually let my one-year-old feed herself...

Our garage sale for charity in April raked in $641 to benefit local organizations!

Easter. It really wasn't that long ago, was it?

Spring Break

2010-03-27T23:49:00.000-07:00

has been good to us. Playing with friends, going to the library, making cards for Meals on Wheels, visiting the Japanese Garden, picnicking at the Rose Garden, bouncing at Pump-It-Up, frolicking at the Children's Museum, swimming at the Y, laughing, eating, reading, sleeping, relaxing.

Dear Grandma Birchett,

2010-03-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure when or where this picture was taken, but it looks like heaven to me. We will miss your beautiful smile, your warmth & kindess, and the wonderful memories you have helped us create. We love you!

Love,
John, Christy & kiddos

One

2010-03-23T07:42:00.001-07:00

Presents...Park...

Cake...

Baptism Day

2010-03-19T23:54:00.001-07:00

March 13, 2010

Crazy Eight

2010-02-24T20:30:00.000-08:00

Seriously? It's really been 8 years? We had one whopper of a day today celebrating the birth of our firstborn. George has been dying to try this restaurant in town, so tonight was the perfect excuse to have some Crazy Sushi. Much to our surprise and delight, this place was awesome! Good food, inviting atmosphere, nice mix of 80's music playing in the background, and even kid-friendly chopsticks for those of us who aren't so adept. Then, after loading up on sticky rice and raw fish, we found out where this place gets its name. Flashing lights, dance music, party poppers, and a green tea ice cream sundae for the birthday boy -- not your typical lame serenade by the wait-staff. This was a party that got the whole joint rockin'. To quote our very surprised guest of honor, "I was like, what the heck?! This is just a sushi restaurant!" Definitely a day to remember. Happy Birthday, my crazy, sushi loving son!

Weather Report

2010-02-03T22:48:00.000-08:00

The weather outside today was mostly rainy with a few bright spots. The weather inside today was mostly bright with a few rainy spots. This was one of my many bright spots.

Oh, the Memories!

2010-01-31T19:44:00.000-08:00

Tonight we pulled out the home videos and watched footage from Dec. 25, 2009 and other events of the past month. We couldn't believe that it has only been a month since Christmas! We started naming everything that's happened since then and here's what we came up with...

Went to Arizona and saw every single Westover and Price family member

Had an awesome dance party and good times at the ranch with the Price fam

Celebrated Annie's 3rd birthday at Freestone Park

Ate enormous amounts of food with the Westover/Birchett clan

Came home from Arizona

Put Christmas away

Went back to AZ for Kelsey & DJ's wedding

Organized all my craft/fabric supplies

Gave a talk in sacrament meeting

Potty-trained Annie

Cleaned out my closet

Celebrated John's 35th birthday

Had an Activity Day Pajama Party

Hosted an NFC championship party

Mastered Mario Kart

Made aprons for the girls

Survived John's trips to Medford, Seattle, LA

Finished George's basketball season

Posted an entry on the ol' blog

Now I just wish I had a post for each of these. Oh well, life goes on...

Christmas Card

2009-12-18T16:46:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I love Christmas card season! No, this is NOT the picture we're sending out with ours. If George was standing up about a foot more and Jane's eyes were open and everyone was looking the same direction and we put a nice sepia tone on it so that no one could tell that we don't match, it would've been perfect! We have about 25 more of these near-perfect photos. And now I know why people send out "children only" pictures with their Christmas cards, which of course I was against until 2009.

Santa Stop

2009-12-12T20:44:00.000-08:00

Sleighbells has become one of our favorite local holiday spots. After all, they do have the best Santa who sits and talks to my 4 little believers for 15 uninterrupted minutes and knows just when to ho, ho, ho.

Cans o' Goodness

2009-12-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

Finally putting those pricey formula cans to good use and spreading a little holiday cheer. (You can find the recipe here.)

Mismatched Socks

2009-12-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

I grew up with some of the cutest stockings you ever did see, hanging on our mantel every December. So 10 years ago I started on my own set and the set is finally complete! (Well, at least for the next 15 years or so.) In the beginning I felt tied to traditional colors and themes and making sure they kinda went together, but as you can see I threw that out the window about the time I moved to California. Hmmm.... Now if I could only recreate my mom's ingenious felt Christmas character bean bag stocking holders.

3 Good Things: George, Dishwashers, & Hot Showers

2009-11-13T07:54:00.000-08:00

I woke up in a foul mood today. I won't elaborate, but I am one cranky mama. So, in light of the upcoming holiday, which all too often gets overlooked, I thought I could cure my blues with a little gratitude. And since all good things come in threes, here they are today...

1. George. I'm not ready to be thankful yet for my 2-yr-old today, who was literally crying all night long. But I will give it up for my eldest child, who gets himself up in the morning and gets ready for school, all on his own! And then entertains me at breakfast with his enthusiasm for all subjects -- which professional soccer team do we like best? Did you know how big the wing span of a flying fox is? Is Australia the biggest country in the world? Mom, you should never touch your eyes, nose, or mouth -- it spreads germs...I always use hand sanitizer after playing on the playground...the playground has a lot of germs...Jane, do you have hand sanitizer in your classroom?...you should always use it after you play on the playground...This kid has way too much energy in the morning. And he's smart and funny and creative and loving and sensitive and obedient and friendly and just a great kid. (I like my other kids too, even my 2-yr-old who is now sleeping in, but George gets top billing today.)

2. Household Appliances. At least when I woke up this morning my dishes and laundry were done. Three years of washing dishes by hand was all it took for me to be eternally grateful for the modern miracle of a dishwasher. I thank my lucky stars everyday for that one. And, even though I was doing laundry all night long, at least I didn't run out of quarters and have to wait for Pavi's to open so I could go get more to dry the load in the washer, and make the Fackrells mad because they were waiting to use it. A private laundry room is a beautiful thing.

3. My Warm House. Every once in a while, when I'm standing in the blustery, cold, pouring rain (as I was at the bus stop this morning), I am reminded of a day I spent several years ago at a concentration camp in Dachau, Germany. It was a gloomy, somber place and standing there in my shorts, in the cold rain, in the middle of July made me wonder how anyone could have possibly survived there in conditions that were exponentially more harsh. Or even wanted to. Thankfully, I don't live in a concentration camp. And after shivering at the bus stop for 5 minutes and sending my super-great son off to school, I get to come home to my warm house, take a hot shower, and put away my clean laundry. Life is good.

Halloween 2009...finally...

2009-11-09T21:06:00.000-08:00

Fall Tribute: Dress-Ups

2009-10-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

Any time of the year is really a good time to dress up, but in the fall it's always more fun because you can get other people to join you. These ladies and I put on a Daddy/Daughter Sock Hop last week for the 8-11 year-old girls from church. The curtains I found at Goodwill made the perfect outfits for serving up pizza and root beer floats with 50's flair.

Fall Tribute: Leaves

2009-10-14T08:22:00.000-07:00

The trees in our neighborhood are so vibrant right now. A leaf collecting walk was in order.

Fall Tribute: Flavor

2009-10-13T07:47:00.000-07:00

Nothin' better than fall flavor -- pumpkin, squash, soups. Mm-m-mmmm. It's my mouth's happiest time of the year.

Fall Tribute: Welcome

2009-10-10T11:23:00.000-07:00

Geez, I just can't get over how much I love fall here (and I thought summer was good)! So I think it deserves a few posts on what makes it such a happy time of year. I especially love sprucing up the house a bit with some fall color. I'm going for a look here that says, "Welcome to the harvest festival!" Even though we don't have a farm, or a garden for that matter.

Weekend Hangover

2009-09-28T21:22:00.001-07:00

Yup. It's been one of those days.

More Running for Fun

2009-09-26T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today some lady friends and I took on this oh-so-scenic 10K run along the Clackamas River. But things got a little ugly towards the end, as we rolled into town and I tried to push my competition into oncoming traffic so I could cross the finish line before her (which I didn't). And unfortunately this is the only documentation I have of the event.

See Jane Run (and George too!)

2009-09-25T13:59:00.001-07:00

Every September they let the kids run around the school parking lot as many times as they can while "Who Let the Dogs Out" blares over the loudspeakers. In the end the school raises funds and the kids get popsicles so everyone's happy.

Weekend Getaway: Long Beach (WA, not CA)

2009-09-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we met up with our Washington cousins at the beach. Sand castles, salt-water taffy, star-gazing, Wii, wiffle, and just hanging out in the really cool mid-century boat house were among the highlights. Oh, and lets not forget, crossing the coolest bridge on earth.

Not Pictured

2009-09-23T07:48:00.001-07:00

This girl doesn't get enough face time on the blog. Oh, the perils of being the fourth child! But considering she just turned 6-months-old, I guess she deserves top-billing today. And in case there was any doubt, I do like her as much as (if not more than) the other children.

Weekend Getaway: Bend/Sunriver

2009-09-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

Sunriver is a resort community just south of Bend whose name sounds much more glorious when sung like you're in a musical -- SUN-ri-VERRRRR! And glorious it was. Unfortunately our trip was much to short -- just a Friday night stay on the tail end of John's work retreat. One day, we shall return.

Kindergarten

2009-09-10T14:53:00.001-07:00

They like to drag out the kindergarten drama around here, so after orientation Tuesday and a day off yesterday, Jane FINALLY started today!

First Day of School

2009-09-08T21:42:00.000-07:00

When did these two get so old?

Summer Highlights #11: The End

2009-09-07T20:57:00.000-07:00

Argh! I can't believe summer's over and I didn't even post about ice cream cones and drive-in movies and camping and parks and tea parties and friends and other summer faves. But we finished off the season with a bang today -- A Back to School ABC breakfast, a Beavers baseball game, and pizza at Hot Lips. It's been a fab summer. I almost wish school wasn't starting in 11 hours and 48 minutes (but who's counting?)!

Summer Highlights #10: Friday Field Trips

2009-09-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

After our visits to the local wildlife refuge, the Children's Museum, and a Sleeping Beauty play earlier this summer, my commitment to Friday Field Trips kinda fizzled by the time August rolled around. But yesterday, I had to do something for our FINAL Friday Field Trip of the summer, even though I wasn't up for a huge outing. So we drew up a map, packed a lunch, and went on a "nature scavenger hunt" to the library and back, stopping at key points along the way -- and, of course, collecting trash while we walked. Totally easy and the kids totally loved it. Hooray for the Earth.

Summer Highlights #9: A Fond Farewell

2009-09-04T19:48:00.000-07:00

After four wonderful years together, it was finally time to say goodbye to an old friend. Lambie wasn't looking so good, even after some reconstructive surgery earlier this year. So Jane planned a farewell party for her -- balloons, cookies, reminiscing about the good ol' days. Then we put her in a box and shipped her off to Grandma's house (so Jane can still visit her every summer). She has been greatly missed, but we've actually survived without her.

Summer Highlights #8: Farm Fresh Produce

2009-09-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

What's better than living on a farm? A lot of things, but why would you, when you can just buy a share in your local CSA farm and reap the benefits all summer long, without having to do all the work.

Summer Highlights #7: Birthday Girl

2009-09-01T21:43:00.000-07:00

Why wouldn't we have a snowman pinata to celebrate Jane's 5th birthday on the 4th of July? It was just collecting dust in the storage room ever since John was a kid and only needed a bit of a makeover.

Summer Highlights #6: Cousins

2009-09-01T21:33:00.000-07:00

Of course, what would a trip to Utah be without a HUGE family reunion, complete with t-shirts (and even dog tags!), cousins, and plenty of potato salad. We loved frolicking with cousins all day and remember John's sweet Grandma Alta and the legacy she left.

Summer Highlights #5: Utah!

2009-08-31T18:05:00.000-07:00

Summer wouldn't be complete without a journey to the land of temples, fry sauce, and MLMs.

First Order of Business

2009-08-28T08:28:00.000-07:00

Annie woke up in hysterics early this morning, carrying on about something. When I finally dragged myself out of bed to go see what was wrong, I opened her door to find her looking at her hands, screaming, "I don't have my fingernails painted!" I finally got her to settle down and go back to sleep, but when she woke up again, we were sure to make fingernail painting a priority.

Summer Highlights #4: Miracles

2009-08-27T08:50:00.000-07:00

Back in June, my sweet 4-year-old niece brought the family together in Arizona to witness a miracle. This is her walking out of the hospital less than two weeks after a near-drowning accident. As if that wasn't enough to keep us on our knees, her mom (my SIL) was in a boating accident a couple weeks ago and survived some major head trauma. It's definitely been a summer of blessings and gratitude.

Summer Highlights #3: Berries!

2009-08-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

Most evidence of the Oregon berry picking season was gone before I could get proof of it. But I did get a picture of this strawberry rhubarb delight because my pies usually don't turn out this good, even after multiple training sessions with the Pie Guru. Oh, but this one was good, yes it was. And after the strawberries came raspberries, blueberries, and now blackberries -- which grow like weeds around here. Just one of the reasons I heart Oregon summers.

Summer Highlights #2: Booty Shorts & Tap Shoes

2009-08-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Sweet & Sassy had her first dance recital in June, wearing hot pants and tapping to the tune of "Feelin' Groovy". I still can't get enough of her!

Summer Highlights #1: Baseball

2009-08-24T08:13:00.000-07:00

And now I must recap...

I have fond memories of attending my brothers' little league games growing up. However, not quite fond enough to make me really want to drag my 4-year-old, 2-year-old, and newborn to a rainy spring/summer of Oregon baseball. Good thing John won this debate and we signed him up anyway. Turned out to be a great season.

The Lizzie Lifestyle

2009-08-23T10:41:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, this little cutie-patootie was cramping my blogging lifestyle. But now that we've hit the 5 month mark and the first day of school for the two big kids is just on the horizon, I think I am ready to re-enter the blog world. I think...

Blog Schmog

2009-06-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

This blog has been temporarily suspended until further notice.
Have a nice day.

Blessing

2009-05-05T13:00:00.001-07:00

Pea Soup

2009-04-22T19:47:00.000-07:00

A barfing 4-year-old, a whining 2-year-old, a hyper 7-year-old, and a crying newborn remind me I don't have the most glamorous job in the world. Tonight's dinner wasn't much to look at either...but despite appearances, it sure tastes good.

Tiptoe through the Tulips

2009-04-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

Family night at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival...a perfect sunny spring evening...

Baby Lizzie

2009-04-12T21:13:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T20:55:00.001-07:00

She's Here!

2009-03-21T15:20:00.000-07:00

We're happy to report the safe arrival of our sweet, new little girl - Eliza Greer Westover. She arrived at 11:06 a.m. on Friday, March 20. She weighed in at a petite 6 lbs. 4.4 oz. and filled out 18 3/4" of the measuring tape from head to tiny little toe. She has a little splash of dark brown hair, and while she doesn't cry too much or too loud, shen she does cry she always seems to squeeze out a tiny little tear (cue: "awwwwww..."). About 24 hours after the c-section, mom was already feeling well enough to take a shower. So all things considered, everything is going VERY well. Truly probably the best experience of the four. We feel extremely fortunate and blessed. We'll continue to post, but wanted to make sure we got a few up ASAP. Enjoy...

My Amazing Mother

2009-03-19T21:19:00.000-07:00

Not only did she make the cutest quilt, bedding, and curtain for the baby's room, she also made me a diaper bag and little bags for the girls, recovered my piano bench, watched my kids, did my dishes, vacuumed my entire house, and offered plenty of moral support. If only she could stay another week.

The Creative Process

2009-03-16T15:07:00.000-07:00

This is what happens to my house within 24 hours of my mom rolling into town. Lets just hope we get it all done before Friday!

March Showers

2009-03-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

I know I used to complain a lot when I first moved here about not having any friends. Now I'm feeling showered with love from these incredible ladies. Thanks for a fabulous morning friends!

Friday Night Ritual

2009-03-13T21:53:00.000-07:00

So it turns out that our "Friday Family Movie Night" has become our "Friday Family Make Pizzas & Popcorn, Watch a Movie, and Dance to the Rolling Credits Night". It's our favorite night of the week.

Talkin' 'Bout Friendship

2009-03-11T07:45:00.001-07:00

Every 10 days our house gets a visit from the Amish Friendship Bread fairy. She struck again last night. So, so good...

I Heart My Carpet Cleaner

2009-03-10T08:43:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen anything so beautiful in your entire life? It was so worth staying out of the house all day yesterday.

Making Room for Baby

2009-03-09T07:50:00.000-07:00

We've been a bit occupied here with preparations for baby. We finally got her room mostly put together this weekend (yes, she has her very own room!!!). And for some reason the dresser just had to be red...

O-pod

2009-03-02T08:11:00.000-08:00

The countdown is on. In 3 weeks we'll be checking ourselves into the Newberg Medical Center Resort for a four-day "Stay-cation". We toured the facility a couple months ago and were quite impressed by the state-of-the-art features of this brand-new hospital. Besides the roomy accommodations and highly-acclaimed milkshakes, we're most looking forward to bringing our own Ipod mix into the operating room docking station. So I've been thinking, what does one listen to when going under the knife? What song will be Track 1 on the soundtrack of this child's life? A little Metallica, Enter Sandman? Perhaps Louis Armstrong, What a Wonderful World? Or maybe some Motley Crue singing Girls, Girls, Girls? C'mon people, I need some help with this one...

Belly Shots

2009-02-27T08:06:00.000-08:00

Today marks 36 weeks of pregnancy #4, so I thought I'd post some belly shots. I realized though that I only have one picture of this pregnancy -- in fact, I only have one picture of every pregnancy -- and there's a good reason for that. So here I am in all my glory...

2002

2004

2006

2009

More Rain Please

2009-02-26T07:40:00.001-08:00

This is why I'll take rain over snow any day -- it's so much cuter...

(Thanks for the raincoats Grandma -- we adore them and use them A LOT!)

Turning Seven

2009-02-25T07:47:00.000-08:00

Waking up at 5:30 to balloons, streamers, and a photo tribute on the mantle. Waffles and whipped cream for breakfast with mom & dad. Donuts brought by mom to share with school class. Getting a package in the mail from grandma. Playing with a favorite friend after school. Receiving calls and well wishes from grandparents and loved ones. A quick trip to Target to spend grandma's gift card. Red Robin's tower of onion rings and birthday serenade. Blowing out birthday cake candles at home with the family. But the highlight was definitely -- the presents...

7 Years Ago

2009-02-24T07:53:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my first-born.

It's Raining, It's Pouring

2009-02-23T07:55:00.000-08:00

I woke up to rain this morning and it looks like it's here to stay this week. I really can't complain with the dry winter we've had this year, but it's hard to believe that just a few days ago we had warm, sunny days like this at the park with friends...

Trip to the Ice Rink

2009-02-21T20:53:00.000-08:00

With George's birthday coming up next week, we decided to forego the party this year and let him choose an "outing". And ever since the roads iced over earlier this winter, he's been wanting to take a crack at ice skating. So John took him and Jane over to the local ice arena for olympic training this afternoon. Watch out Brian Boitano.

Thursday Dance Class

2009-02-20T07:43:00.000-08:00

Always a highlight of the week.

Teatime

2009-02-19T07:55:00.000-08:00

It has been way too long since we dusted off the tea set, so it was time to pull it out this week. I believe this was Annie's first! But unfortunately, Jane won't let me use my tea party voice anymore. And I do miss having a gentleman in attendance. We still had a loverly time!

International Cuisine

2009-02-18T07:45:00.000-08:00

Last night I treated the kids to a new family favorite, easy dinner -- Turkey Lettuce Wraps (mine didn't quite look this pretty). The kids love them so much, in fact, that George commented half-way through dinner, "Mom, I think you're the best cooker in the whole world!" Why thank you, son. And apparently he thinks my repertoire is pretty far reaching because he followed up with, "Mom, do you even know how to make Antarctica food?"

(Coincidentally, I've got Falafels on the docket for tonight!)

Life with a 2-year-old

2009-02-17T07:46:00.000-08:00

If only it was always like this...

Teach Your Children Well

2009-02-16T15:05:00.000-08:00

Imagine my delight this morning when I heard George singing the lyrics of this one-hit-wonder over breakfast. I must have sung "Two of Hearts" one too many times on Saturday. Hope your V-day was just as memorable.

Back in the Saddle

2009-02-16T07:44:00.001-08:00

Alright. No excuses. No explanations. But it's time to get back on this horse.

In Loving Memory of 2008

2009-01-11T11:45:00.000-08:00

Once most of the snow had fallen in 2008, we decided it was time to dig ourselves out...For a visit to see this guy...
Then we had some friends over for Christmas Eve karaoke and merriment...

A few hours later was your typical Christmas morning, full of excitement and holiday magic...
But we were a bit lonely, so we headed over the river and through the snow & ice & slush to grandmother's house in Utah (or Ta-Ta, as Annie so perceptibly referred to it throughout our trip). So fun to be reunited with almost all of John's family and a few favorite old friends -- too bad I didn't take more pics to capture the moments! But here are a few more memories we did capture to finish off our year...

George lost his 1st tooth! The cold must've knocked it right out of his mouth...

And we have a new favorite 2-year-old...

We got to celebrate with cousins and Elmo...

Goodbye 2008, you will be missed...

A Word from Our Sponsor

2008-12-20T22:24:00.000-08:00

This week has been brought to you by Snow. No, I'm not talking about the one-hit-wonder who brought us "Informer" back in 1993. I'm talking about that cold, wet, white stuff that falls from the sky. It started a week ago and hasn't stopped -- not so typical for this part of the country. Therefore, we got an extra week of Christmas break and hunkered down inside our warm, cozy house for the last 7 days. Here are some pics to prove that we actually did enjoy some parts of it...
And now I would like the rain back, please.

Fake or Real: The Great Christmas Tree Debate

2008-12-17T10:21:00.000-08:00

Both John and I remember growing up with an artificial tree, with a few vague memories of the real thing here and there. But since we've been married we've opted for the more fragrant, more earthy, more natural tree that has been stripped from its forest home, bound and gagged, and piled up in an Ikea or Home Depot lot to wait to be brought to someone's home to die. (After only a year, I've got this Oregonian tree-hugger thing figured out!) So now that we live just a hop, skip, and a jump from a plethora of Christmas tree farms, we (John) thought a trip to chop down our own tree and drag it home would be the perfect family outing for the season.

Fortunately, we had the most beautiful weather that day and after passing several farms, we settled on just the right one -- ANY tree, 35 bucks! Of course, that meant we (John) had to get an enormous one. So we set out across the field with our saw and children in tow to find the ultimate tree.

In the end it was mostly a successful trip. As it turned out, we (John) learned some valuable life lessons that day...

#1 -- Trees growing out in nature's vast expanse seem much smaller than they do when you get them inside your 2400 sq. ft. house.

#2 -- It's not too difficult to make your children think you have the strength of Superman, even though they may slightly question whether or not you really know what you're doing.

#3 -- An 11 ft. tree is exponentially heavier and bulkier than an 8 ft. tree. (And you may want to consider choosing a tree that's within 100 yds. from where you parked the car.)

#4 -- Your wife can make anything look good.#5 -- Artificial wins.

George's Piano Recital

2008-12-17T10:04:00.000-08:00

He won't be accompanying the primary in church any time soon, but we're quite proud of our little pianist. He was one of the only kids who played without his music and, I think, the only one to bow after his performance. In fact, he told me afterwards, "Mom, I found out you don't have to bow."