How many times do you think it's reasonable to bathe the same child everyday? Well if we're talking about Ben who is on lots of serious poo-producing medicines 2-3 baths a day are not only reasonable, they are ESSENTIAL! He seriously takes it to a whole new level of yuck! And the timing is always the worst. I love Ben tremendously, but can I just for one second vent- I am sick of being covered in poo, wiping and scrubbing out poo, doing extra laundry because of poo, and worrying about the next poo I'll discover! It's not the highlight of my day by far, but then Ben just smiles at me while I am cleaning him up and says in his cute scratchy voice "Mama, poo." and it makes me smile and forget the stress and suddenly I love him all the more!

I'm not sure why but I've been thinking lately how thankful I am for wonderful families who are such good influences on my kids. My little ones LOVE to be with grandparents, aunts and uncles, and cousins. Families are what life's all about, right? This is a random picture from Christmas 2009, when Brady was still waiting for his kidney transplant and was really ill. He is much better now but struggles with almost constant infections. We love him and hope he continues to gain strength.

One cute picture at a time...

I just had to share this photo. It was early in the summer this year and it totally makes me laugh. Aimee's lips are actually inside Sarah's mouth! Well they love each other. What can I say.

Ok, so I am way, way behind on posting but it isn't entirely my fault. We had to get a new computer a little bit ago and I am ashamed to admit it but I don't know how to use it, like at all! My sister even came over to show me the ropes and it is useless, and largely embarrassing. Further proof that I am officially old (as if the four kids and the minivan in the garage don't do that already)! All I can say is to offer my sincerest apologies to my devoted followers, both of you, and my hopes to be back in the swing of things in the near future. In the meantime, I've been reading this little book for the book club and have found it charming so far (I'm only about 20+ pages in though). So far it's a pleasant diversion.

Guess what!

We finally went on our family vacation to.... Disneyland! Pictures to come....

Elder Bednar Speaks about being an Apostle of Jesus Christ

"It's one thing to KNOW it's true, it's another thing to consistently BE TRUE to what we know...We need more than testimonies, we need to be converted."

Thank you Laura for sharing this with me. I feel blessed and strengthened. Please watch:

http://new.lds.org/study/prophets-speak-today/unto-all-the-world/elder-bednar-ministry-of-an-apostle?lang=eng

Congratulations Cody!

Cody, I was so proud to stand by your side as you were promoted to Master Sergeant.

What an honor! Nevermind those that say you are too young for such a responsibility.

I know what this means to you and I believe there are few men as dedicated

to serving their country and as happy to serve as you. Truly you deserve the honor

and will bless all those you serve with your compassionate leadership.

Cody with Chief Mark Savage
Thanks for all you do to bless and provide for our family.

We are so proud of you and love you so much!

"Serenity Now..."

Do you remember that Seinfeld episode? Funny, Cody said that to me a few days ago, jokingly when it was a little chaotic at home, and it's kinda stuck with me and I keep repeating it, almost unconsciously. I love my new bright green leaf background on the blog, it's calming in a not-so-calm world. Ahh...serenity now....

I don't have much time for posting lately. I have been taking pics and maybe I'll get to posting them. In the meantime, we're still here and everyone's fine.

P.S. In desperation to repair a bad (seriously bad!) hair cut, Cody cut my hair yesterday morning in our bathroom! It was adorable how nervous he was, but I think he did a much better job than the chatty chicka at the salon. Anyone need a trim? Ü

Brady's transplant surgery is today at 6 pm! Please, please pray! Thanks!

Cody's brother Brady is being admitted to the hospital. He might be getting his new kidney today! Please keep him in your prayers!