Motherhood

Here is about the best picture I can get lately from this child who does not stop moving!

I have been thinking a lot lately about being a mother. Before becoming a mother I was so cocky and thought that I would be the best mother, that it would be easy and that all other mothers make it out to be too hard. Boy, have I had a reality check lately. It is actually by far the hardest thing I have ever done. The feeling of responsibility alone is one of the hardest things for me. Some days I do not feel worthy of such a calling and do not feel like I am doing a good enough job. Having to leave him while I go to work and trying to entertain him somehow while I do homework makes me feel guilty. I just have to remind myself that I am doing these things for him so we can be financially stable and provide a good home, neighborhood, and the things in life that he will want and benefit from. In another thought, I always thought I was a patient person. That was one of the big qualities that has helped me be a good nurse. I have all the patience in the world at work and everyone tells me that, but I have had the hardest time lately being patient at home. Why is this? Isn't the most important to be loving and patient to your own family at home? I think that it is the feeling of responsibility for me that make me lose patience. I want so much for Dylan to be a good, smart kid and do what he is told and eat good food and have good sleeping habits. When Dylan does not do these things I feel I am not doing a good job and I get frustrated and then impatient. So how I can I fix this? I have many ideas and ways that I think I could help myself and my family, but I would really like some input from my blogging pals out there. Sometimes outsiders looking in can give different perspectives and insights to things, so I am requesting some great ideas and look forward to reading them. Thanks in advance!

Stephanie Nielson: Plane crash survivor regains hope

Stephanie Nielson: Plane crash survivor regains hope

Click on the second title to this post to read the most amazing story of survival. Do not attempt without a box of kleenex close by. I came home from work tonight and was searching through my sister-in-laws blog list and came across this blog that touched my heart and I read and read. I found the link to this published story about this family and what they have been through. The story is sad, touching, and a lesson of faith, hope, and love. After reading and crying, reading and crying, I have found a new motivation to live and love more that I ever have. I would hope that in the same situation I would have the same courage and determination as Stephanie has had. She is a true role model and I hope that her story touches your lives in a way that leaves you hugging your loved ones a little closer and enjoying the small moments with them. I know that I held Dylan closer and thanked my Heavenly Father for him and for my health and my many, many blessings.

Dylan's First Adventures in the Snow

I figured that before we got ready for today, we would spend a little time playing in the snow. Dylan was mostly interested in eating the snow though. He had a hard time walking in his boots and big snowsuit, but soon got the hang of it. It is so fun to observe Dylan as he does things for the first time.

Christmas Lights at Temple Square

Family Pictures by Kontgas Photography!

We finally had some professional pictures taken. We dressed up and met my friend Kristina at the State Capitol. After the pictures we were unsure if any would be good because Dylan was totally naughty the whole time. I was pleasantly surprised today to see that they turned out great! I was able to order my Christmas cards which is a relief for me. Look forward to getting some of these cute pictures in the mail!








Thanks Kristina for our fabulous pictures! You did a great job!

Who Knew?

Is it normal for a 16 month old baby to do somersaults? Dylan just started doing these today. I don't know how he learned it! Maybe my boy will be a gymnast. He also likes to dance. When I watch my show, "So You Think You Can Dance" Dylan starts tapping his toes and twirling around. It is fun to see him grow and his personality develop. He is so happy most of the time and loves to talk gibberish.

Halloween 2009

I had to plan and host the Trunk or Treat and Chili Cook-off at our ward this year. Dylan dressed up as an airforce guy in honor of Bryan's four years of service. He looked pretty official and very cute as well. He enjoyed the suckers and candy we let him have and he loved running around with his other one year old friends in our ward. After the trunk or treat Dylan was put to bed and Bryan and I were able to have a movie night and we watched The Sixth Sense and ate a lot of candy!! It was a fun night. We look forward to next Halloween when we can take Dylan Trick or Treating and hopefully I won't have to plan the ward activity!