Pennsylvania Scotts

2011 Update

2011-09-25T18:06:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is a year later and I am still not blogging regularly. Sorry!

Here is what is happening!

Bash started second grade this year and aside from the fact that he can't stop talking to his neighbors (I have no idea where he gets this), he is doing just fine. He turned eight last month and I think he is excited to get baptized. At the very least, he is excited to have a special visit from Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Chris and Aunt Kaitlyn. Joking aside, I think he is prepared as much as he can be. He has taken the discussions from the missionaries and reads his scriptures faithfully. He is a good boy and we are very proud of him.

Parker started kindergarten this year and is thrilled with taking the bus, buying lunch and everything else that goes along with school. He is doing so well and is very well behaved which his father and I are baffled by. He is so sweet half the time and a maniac the other half. Can you say crrrraaaazzzyyy? Right now, he seems most interested in building things and running around naked. Fun kid!

Caroline is in preschool this year and she and I argue constantly about her hair and wardrobe choices. She is quite a bossy little girl but seems to have lots of friends despite this character flaw. She is three going on sixteen and can do everything herself and doesn't need my help for anything and wants to marry her Daddy. (She says we can share.)

Todd still has Verizon fever and there doesn't seem to be a cure, thankfully. I am grateful he enjoys his work (for the most part) and am proud of him. Bash wants to work for Verizon when he grows up as well. I think it's the cash register that attracts him the most.

I am exactly the same but much lighter. Okay, I am not exactly the same! I have lost 84 pounds and I feel fantastic! I have energy to do things I didn't know I could... I am enjoying working out and trying to get my family to follow this new healthier lifestyle. It's slow going. Ahem.... No pics of me yet!

Life is good here in PA and time is flying by. (Probably another year will fly by before I post again!) We love you all and hope to see you soon!

Love,

If I'm not B*tching, check my pulse.

2010-11-08T10:24:00.000-08:00

I am here. I know, I know, it's been way too long!!

I am having a bad bad bad day. I have PMS so bad I want to pull my hair out. I think I have that PMDD I've seen on TV because I am NUTS! Ate too much Friday and Saturday and a little bit on Sunday. Get with it Amanda! Today I wanted to eat when the stress was overwhelming me but... I took a walk instead. This is very impressive for me. I have only a few more months of making sure I am ready for this life change and it feels like every small decision counts. So I celebrate my victories, no matter how small, and I try to get over my lapses very quickly. We all know how little good it does to worry and regret!

In other news, Saturday was a temple triple day which coincided with my Nanny's birthday. I am so much like her and I wish she was here every day. When I say I am like her it is because we are both bossy but loveable. She had this mug that read, "If I'm not bitching, check my pulse" Me in a nut shell. I miss her so much. I know she would enjoy my kids immensely.

Caroline is officially potty training. She is doing very well. Today is day 5. I am very proud of her. Usually by the time my kids are at this point I have already had another baby or am about to. It will be very weird to have no one in diapers. But nice, very nice.

Todd is applying for a training position again. Prayers please! I would love for him to NOT be in a store next holiday season. Having him home weekends couldn't hurt either!

Freelancing is going well. Slowed down a bit but I am OK with that because life had seemed to speed up!

Miss you all!

Keep on Keepin' on...

2010-07-21T22:12:00.000-07:00

DC Temple

So I am just going to keep blogging even though not many of you seem to be commenting. I know you are reading because you tell me, so would it kill you to make a comment now and then?

With that said, I will keep on blogging regardless!

Last week was stupefyingly busy. Through no fault of my own of course.

We took Todd to the airport on Tuesday in DC and then the kids and I went to the temple which is always a good idea. They have a great exhibit at the visitor's center with a tiny replica of Jerusalem and and living room for FHE, etc. My kids love it there. One of the sister missionaries asked the kids if they wanted to hear the words of the Savior. So we sat in front of the Christus and a voice came booming out at us. Parker later asked, "was that just a pretend Jesus voice?" After that we went to Baja Fresh for "Mexican" and a complete stranger came up to me and asked how old my boys are and told me that they are really well behaved. I must have looked at him like he was crazy because he then said, "well, sure they were trying to choke each other but that's what brothers do and at least they aren't getting up and running around..." I suppose I will take that as a compliment to my parenting skills. You can kill each other... just be quiet about it, okay?

One day at home and then back on the road to Palmyra for the Hill Cumorah Pageant. So great! This year I dragged Liz along with me (although I should mention that she is no better at staying awake on a road trip than I am) and she was a big help. We saw the temple, walked in the Sacred Grove (seriously, that "shady woodland" could not have been more welcoming on that HOT day!) and then went to the Pageant. Bash spotted some kids playing Frisbee and I let him go play with them. It should be noted that they were older teenagers and Bash is not quite seven! I think he felt that they were more on his "level" than his little brother and baby sister. Pretty cute. He definitely held his own.

The cast of the Pageant are missionaries for the time they are in the Pageant and so they wander the seats prior to the show. Caroline spotted a man she thought must be Jesus and followed him around, staring and exclaiming, "It's Jesus, Mommy!" She was SO excited. I'm pretty sure it was either Laman or Lemuel, but any guy with a beard and a robe looks like Jesus to a two-year-old, right? ;)

Finally, she got her picture taken with him and the rest of the night she kept asking Liz to show her the picture of Jesus. Gonna have to hang that one in her room.

I'll post pics when I get them from Liz!

We tried to relax the rest of the time Todd was gone. Went to Oppenheimer Park and got drenched. I don't know why I didn't expect it, Parker analyzed the clouds and said, "Mommy, I think it's going to rain." I brushed him off but Parker sort of has a "thing" about the weather. And by "thing" I mean he is scared of storms and winds and is constantly searching the sky for dark clouds. He may be a meteorologist or someone who builds those underground bunkers when he grows up.

Todd came home Tuesday and we picked him up in Baltimore. Long drive, short stay. We considered the aquarium but we were all too tired and for some reason they don't allow strollers in the Aquarium so that would've meant carrying Cali when she got tired (which she inevitably would) plus Todd and just taken the red eye from Sacramento to BWI so we just headed home, where Todd promptly fell asleep anyway.

Published again last Sunday. Photos too which equals extra moolah. Working on something for the magazine currently. Keeping busy!

Palmyra Temple at night. Lovely, isn't it?

Alone Time, Anyone?

2010-07-03T15:04:00.000-07:00

I relish my alone time. Is that wrong? I feel like almost every moment of my day is shared with someone else. Not just my time, but my body. When you have kids, it's like your body doesn't belong to you anymore. Beginning with pregnancy, you feel odd kicking and poking and rolling and it's wonderful, but it takes over your body. After they are born you are breast feeding and even if you don't, you are still holding the baby all the time. I used to love to cuddle and I still do but sometimes I just want my body all to myself. Sometimes I just want to take a shower without someone peeking around the corner. I want to go to the bathroom without an audience. I want to sit and read without a child (or two or three) sitting on top of me. I want to have a night's sleep with no one but my husband and I in the bed.

The thing is, when I am alone, I feel like I am missing a limb or something. The fact is you can never go back to who you were before you have kids. When the kids aren't here I don't quite know what to do with myself. When they go to bed, I don't do anything productive, I just sit and enjoy being alone or with Todd. When you are a stay-at-home mom, you sort of define yourself by your kids. You plan your life around them because they are your life. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to work and leave my kids all day. I think if I was doing something I love, it would be easier, but I think my life would be less fulfilling for sure. The truth is I really love my kids and love spending my days with them. Although I never planned to be a stay-at-home mom (I guess now I am technically a "work-at-home mom"), I don't think think I would be truly happy doing anything else.

So I guess what I am saying is I just need some alone time a little more often!

What have I done?

2010-06-26T06:17:00.000-07:00

So I mentioned in an earlier post that I was "scheduling" my summer. I am now having second thoughts about that. This week was exhausting and I don't think the kids are appreciative and I think I may be overdoing it. This week we had swim lessons and guitar lessons on Monday, play date on Tuesday, Swim lessons and my niece Paige was with us all day on Wednesday, swimming lessons and church meeting Thursday Morning followed by an all day play date. Friday we got up early and went to chocolate world, came home and went grocery shopping and fed the elders. I'm tired.

However, I am grateful that I had the chance to spend time with my nieces and wonderful sister in law this week. Did I mention that they are moving here? Yay!!!!! They won't be here permanently until August but I will be spending a week in South Carolina with them before they move here! Yay Again!!!! I am hoping we will be on the beach every day!

This week is another busy one, but at least swim lessons are over for awhile. Guitar, Mom Mom's birthday, the Philly Zoo and dinner with Uncle Ryan on Tuesday, free movie and play date on Wednesday (and I'm hosting a crafting party that night for church). Play date on Thursday... Friday is clear except for feeding the elders. Hopefully, we'll be able to get in sometime with Alexandria and Paige and Kimberly!

Do you really need to know my entire schedule? Probably not, but I though I'd share anyway!

In other news... I haven't been able to get any work done this week. Maybe today. I am working on this story about a Bed and Breakfast that has Bison, texas longhorns, elk and my personal favorite, a scottish highland. I think it's for the money section again.

I am attempting to potty-train Caroline. She is very interested but apparently has no alarm system yet. I can catch her when she is doing number two (she makes certain noises... wink, wink) but number one always seems to be a surprise to her! She is growing so fast. It's time to take away the bo-bo (pacifier) but I just haven't been able to bring myself to do it! When I put her to bed without it she cries so hard that she makes herself sick. Gross. Any tips?

Bash is doing OK with his guitar lessons. He is using my Dad's guitar which is huge and making it difficult for him to reach his fingers around it to hit all the frets. We told him if he keeps it up through the summer and does well he will get a new guitar (a size-appropriate one) in the fall. Actually, a normal size guitar is a good fit for Bash. It's just that my Dad's guitar is a JUMBO! Bash has his own blog so he can comment on grandma's blog. Fun!

Parker is a very good swimmer and enjoys his lessons and any pool time immensely. It's hilarious to watch him swimming around with a huge smile on his face! He's super excited for preschool. He already knows the teacher and the school so I'm hoping we won't have too much adjusting to make. Parker is the kind of person who has a "comfort zone" and he sort of clams up when he gets out of it. We'll see!

Jenny will be home soon (end of July) and we are all excited to see her. We have missed her so much! We have been skyping a lot so the kids definitely don't forget her!

We have had a fun time hanging out at Mom-Mom's house. The kids are getting more and more comfortable and safe around the pool. Hopefully, we can visit with Mom-Mom at least once a week this summer.

I decided on July 1 to start reading the book of Mormon in a month. I got so much out of it last year when I did this. I am actually really excited to get started!

Todd has been working faithfully in the garden and it looks amazing! I am so proud of him. He really has a green thumb. I think he gets this from his parents. They have an amazing garden too! Bash also loves spending time with his daddy in the garden. It shouldn't be too much longer until we actually see the fruits of Todd's labor! Todd is excited about his California trip. He will be able to see all but one of his brothers.

We camped in the backyard as a family this week. Let's just say I wasn't suicidal in the morning but it wasn't the best night's sleep I've ever gotten. Todd sort of roped me into it. ("hey boys, don't you think Mommy should camp out here with us, too?")

We are planning to go to California next year. (I really want to see Casey and Aly's new baby!). And we are hoping Mom and Dad Scott will be visiting us this fall (hint hint)!

Don't forget that next September will be Bash's baptism... start planning now family!

Love you all!
OXOXO
Amanda

And now I'm getting paid for it!

2010-06-11T08:22:00.001-07:00

Something you probably already know about me is that I am writer. I feel like I was born to write. The seven years or so since I started having kids has been a break from writing and I have missed it terribly. Only I didn't know how much I missed it until I started doing it again! I lost confidence in my talent.

A few months ago I decided to give freelancing a try. I was shaky and nervous about it but I updated my resume (read: I have been home for the last six and a half years raising my children and growing my butt) and found some of my old writing samples and, with a prayer I sent it to our local newspaper's features editor. Turns out my ten-year old writing samples from college did not impress so I had to prove myself with an "audition" of sorts.

Ta da!! I guess I've still got it! Yesterday I was brought on board officially as a freelance writer! To quote my editor, "The pay is lousy" but I am now a professional writer! Todd and I talked about it and we both know I'm not doing for the money, but because this has been a life-long dream of mine! The most wonderful part is that I get to stay home with my kids but still feel fulfilled by having a career!

I wanted to share this with you, my friends and family because I know you will be happy for me! Hopefully I'll be able to post a link to my first feature on Sunday, June 20!

Love to you all!

Amanda Grossman-Scott (my freelancing name)

Summer Plans

2010-06-04T16:32:00.000-07:00

"That beautiful season the summer!

Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light;

and the landscape

Lay as if new created in all the freshness of childhood."

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The fireflies are back. We always called them "lightning bugs" when I was a kid. Beautiful. the boys watch them out their windows at night. These are the only bugs I like here in Pennsylvania.

I love the way my kids smell in the summertime. It's a mixture of sunscreen and grass and dirt. But they are happy and free. I am finally starting to relax about letting them get dirty.

Of course I couldn't let the summer begin without making plans to make sure the kids won't be sitting around all summer.

A sample week goes something like this:

Monday: Bash's Summer reading Program at the library, Parker swim lessons, Bash guitar lessons.
Tuesday: Free movie at the theater, Caroline's Summer Library program, Parker swim lessons
Wednesday: Parker's Summer Library Program, Swim Lessons, Bash Art Class
Thursday: Science Program for Bash and Park, Tiny Tots Tumbling for Caroline.
Friday: Slow Day! Just Swim Lessons and probably the sprinkler park.

On top of this bash has Art Camp and Soccer camp for two full weeks!

In other news, Todd is going to California for a week in July where he will attend two Giants games with his family. I am going to miss him so much and am a little jealous that he gets his very own vacation but he totally deserves it!

While he is gone I think the kids and I will go to the Hill Cumorah Pageant in Palmyra. We loved it last year. Also, if we can stand it, I would love to visit Kirtland too.

I would also like to go to the beach and we are trying to plan a camping trip. This summer is getting expensive!

In still other news, I am officially freelance writing for our local paper and local magazine. This is a life-long goal and I hope to keep busy but not too busy, because my full time "gig" is still being a Mom!

Caroline had a wonderful tea party birthday party. And Bash has just finished Kindergarten. Parker got into the preschool we wanted him to (the same school Bash attended), so he is very excited.

Now you are updated!

oxoxo Amanda

Chinese Food and the Devil from the DMV

2010-05-12T08:26:00.000-07:00

It's Friday and I don't feel like cooking and Sebastian is sick and wants his favorite food, Chinese take out. And since everyone knows there are zero calories on Fridays, of course I oblige.

I called our order in ahead of time and it seems like no matter what I order the lady always says "ok, ten minute" so I always give it 20 "minute" instead.

I arrive just in time. The Chinese lady is gathering my order on the counter just as I walk in. To my left is a lady waiting for her order. She obviously either did not call ahead or believed the Chinese lady with her erroneous "ok, 10 minute" promise. I realize that I know her from somewhere, but where? Ours is a small town and I know she has been on the other side of the counter from me somewhere... let me think, she is always a little bit too pompass and acts like my time is of no consequence... oh of course! She works at the DMV! (Dept of Motor Vehicles) How can I describe the general attitude of the average DMV employee? I guess they act like any other government worker; bored, irritated with others' ignorance of government procedures, slow to act, they answer "No" with no further explanation... the list goes on. For instance there is a disfigured gentleman who also works there who always acts like all of his customers are total morons. I can't help but think that people work there so that they can make others feel as bad as they have always felt about themselves. If you've ever been there you know there is an indescribable quality in these people that just says "you're an idiot and I am miserable because of it".

Last year when Jenny was our Nanny, she needed to get a license if she was to be of any use to me so we spent many hours at the DMV. Applying for a license, filling out endless paper work, practicing for the driving portion of the test. This lady standing next to me was always there to make us feel completely unimportant and ignored.

Is it wrong that I am getting a secret thrill from watching HER stand in line for once?! I ask the chinese lady "is this my order?" The DMV lady cuts me off, "no, I've been waiting for 15 minutes so I'm sure it's mine" The chinese lady asks me "what your phone number?" I tell her and she says "Oh this your order, I get one more thing for you" and she disappears into the back. I smile smugly at the DMV lady and say, "It's quicker if you call ahead". I am secretly gleeful.

I am momentarily distracted by Bash and the fish tank. When I look back there is a small brown bag on the counter next to my order. "is this mine? I ask. The DMV lady says, "no" and after a moment meekly says, "I think it's mine..." That's right I said "meekly". I am enjoying this ever so much!

The bag is hers. I pay for mine and as I am heading out the door, I say, "I know where I recognize you from... the BP gas station, right?" She stares at me incredulously, "Uh, no," she quickly corrects me, "I work at the DMV".

Yeah, I knew that.

This message has been brought to you by:

"The DMV. We'll employ anyone with a pulse."

Wednesdays with Mom Mom

2010-05-06T05:26:00.000-07:00

She creeps in the front door... many times I am back in bed after getting Bash off to school. I hear the front door creak open and a voice say, "Hello!" Then the pitter patter of two pairs of feet running to greet our visitor, "Mom Mom!!" Parker and Caroline shout.

We have been so lucky to have Mom Mom visit us many a Wednesday. She is not your typical grandma. Or maybe she is. She spoils them rotten and can't seem to say "No". But she also plays Wii with them even if they always beat her badly.

She plays train conductor and super heroes, tea party and monsters, dress up and hide and seek. In short, she'll do anything they ask her to.

She always brings a salad to share for lunch and knows not to share her brown soda!

She'll watch "The Bee Movie" over and over and over again without (much) complaint. Then there's almost always a special trip to Target and a small gift for each child, and of course, a slushy. If I let her, she'll spend all her hard earned cash on my already spoiled children!

Later, she'll watch Bash play soccer and cheer him loudly. The kids are always sad to see her go but not too sad. They know we'll always see her next Wednesday!

Thoughts for the day... On appropriate footwear.

2010-05-03T12:55:00.001-07:00

Picked up Sebastian from school. He's wearing the outfit I put out for him (t shirt and shorts- it 80 degrees) except... he's wearing boots. Obviously, it was Todd's day to get him out the door. Did he not look at Bash's feet? Lol. I'd hate to see what he'd be wearing if I left that part up to Todd!

Just now Parker wanted to go outside to play soccer with Bash. I told him to take off his flip flops and get his tennis shoes on. I went to check on him five minutes later and not only is he not wearing tennis shoes but he has taken off his pants. How is this logical to this child? Sigh. Although, those of you who know Parker are aware of his fondness for going commando or just wearing underwear or being bottom-less altogether.

I am going to try to post at least once a week. It may not be super exciting but I'm hoping it will keep everyone updated better!

Well... What are ya gonna do?

2010-04-30T19:35:00.000-07:00

Yes it is May 1st and I have not blogged since December. Yes I am a horrible Mother. Sigh. Well, what are ya gonna do, ya know? I'll fill you in...

When we last saw the Scott Family they were happily living out their days in rural Pennsylvania, making frequent trips to what I like to refer to as "civilization" (you know... Starbucks, Costco, Bloomingdale's and maybe an actual mall?)...

At any rate, we catch up with the PA Scotts finishing up Bash's Kindergarten year, on the verge of beginning Parker's first year of Pre-school, and happily entering the terrible two's with the girl who will hereafter be referred to as "La Diva"! If you know Caroline, you will know this title suits her perfectly.

While we have many plans to keep from being couch potatoes this summer, I will first describe our winter/spring months.

At the end of December we lost our beloved Nanny, Jenny. (Below, on the left.) Relax, she's not dead. She just went off to school at BYU Idaho to obtain her MRS degree (wink, wink). We miss her terribly, especially me because I had to start (gasp!) taking care of my own offspring. :)

In January we were pelted with snow storms which is (of course) my fault for being from Pennsylvania and moving my California boy husband out here in the first place. But, heroically, Todd endured yet another east coast winter. Luckily, Sebastian has learned to enjoy shoveling (and over-salting) the walk way and driveway.

Parker (aka "bad a** stunt man") thought our bookshelves looked like a fun climbing apparatus and got himself a nasty scar on his cheek as he fell down and smashed his face on the corner of the TV table. (As you will see in pictures.) This was very traumatic for all involved (me!).

Parker does not like to be cold and takes his comforter with him everywhere... The kitchen, his sister's room, the living room, the bathroom, the basement playroom. He often carries with him a portable heater. I was forced to buy small portable heaters when my husband attacked our poor Heating/AC Unit in February. (That's gonna need to be fixed soon. I can go without heat but do not ask me to live without AC!!) Parker is also very interested in taking pictures and steals my camera pretty often. Here is some of his work. The first one is my favorite because you can see Park's toes! So cute!

Caroline "La Diva" insisted (to my delight) on wearing tutus all winter long. This forced me to get creative with leggings and tights. That girl has a fashion sense all her own! I guess I should just be glad Parker isn't living in his Spider man costume anymore... those were rough times!

Sebastian became an avid reader as soon as he learned to sound out words. He is such a fast learner and we are so proud of him! Straight A's every report card so far!!

Todd started school again in February after the busy Christmas season. I am so proud of him for continuing his education. I am secretly hoping this will be his last Christmas in a store and that the next year or two will bring an opportunity for him to pursue a position in a different part of the company. It would really be nice if he weren't so grinchy at Christmastime!

February and the beginning of March were spent mostly trying to stay warm. Tiffany and Eli and Caleb were our frequent companions as were Nora and Kalei and Owen and Khloe. Mom Mom visited frequently and of course, Liz!

I was called as first counselor in Relief Society and am VERY grateful for the switch (not that I don't LOVE primary...). I am so grateful to have more time on Sundays and during the week with the women at church (and less time with the kids!) and so happy for the opportunity to teach and study and prepare lessons.

Mid-March brought on a wonderful bout with Pneumonia. FUN! Seriously, it was horrible and I thought I was going to die. My temp was 103 degrees at one point and I just wanted to crawl out of my body. Yuck. Luckily, I survived. I recovered just in time to have my tonsils removed on March 31st. Double FUN! Thank goodness I had been on death's doorstep with the Pneumonia so I knew I could survive having my tonsils removed. Those of you who know me may also be acquainted with my tonsils, "lefty and righty". They have been my torturers and enemies these many long years and I was SO glad to be rid of them. However, I may have begged to have them back at times when the meds were wearing off. Ouch. It still hurts to yawn and sneeze.

Side note: Apparently, anesthesia makes me grouchy with a tendency to yell at random strangers and my husband.

While I was recovering from my tonsillectomy, Bash decided it would be a good time to get strep throat and miss school for 3 days. Luckily, Todd was off work to take care of me and he took on a second patient in stride. (He may be a better Mother than I am, but he does not keep a very neat house!) Parker and Caroline were sick together just as Bash and I were feeling better. Triple FUN! Thank goodness Liz was here to snuggle with me and watch Pride and Predjudice and help Todd take care of the kids. Someone had to yell for me as I had no voice!

Seriously, though, a HUGE THANK YOU to my great group of wonderful girl friends who made meals and cleaned and took care of me and my family while we were incapacitated. And of course, my Mom who took care of the kids and all of us! I am so blessed!

As of late, I am working out again (after a month of being too sick to move!), Bash has started spring soccer (he wanted to play T-ball but decided to wait until next year so he wouldn't have to play on Sundays, our "family day"), Parker is stoked for Pre-school and Caroline is getting ready for the big two year-old tea party birthday!

We are planning to be in Hilton Head for Memorial Day and are super excited to meet up with all the Grossmans who can make it.

So now you are up to speed. Hope your spring has been much more dull than ours! (Or at least healthier!)

Parker's Birthday Party

2009-12-18T19:34:00.000-08:00

Parker's birthday is much too close to Christmas for me. I think I will change it to December 10, somewhere around there. At any rate, we decided to celebrate his birthday last minute on December 10. It's amazing what you accomplish with one trip to the party store. Parker wanted a Mickey Mouse party. I guess our Disney trip got him hooked!

Here's the birthday boy... and him going back for seconds!

Mom Mom entertaining us all!

There was a mean game of duck-duck goose, which is Parker's favorite game.

Pretty great cake on such short notice!

He loves GeoTrax trains!!

Happy 4th Birthday Parker Gary!! We love you!

Christmas Portraits - The Good Ones!

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

Merry Christmas friends and family. Consider this my Christmas card for 2009 as I decided to skip it this year!

Things are good here. Rushing around trying to get everyone enough... enough presents, enough time, enough sleep... it's exhausting!

Bash is 6 years old and still enjoying Kindergarten. Just before the holiday break they'll be closing his school and moving to the newly renovated school with the rest of the kindergarten classes in our district. That's very exciting for him. He wants a "DS" for Christmas but I told Santa to wait until next year.

Parker will be 4 years old on Monday. He is desperate to be a "big boy". He carries a back pack to be more like his brother and he is very excited for pre-school next year. We are hoping to get him into the same pre-school that Bash attended but he is down on the waiting list. Todd thinks the teacher has just seen Parker in real-life and is only claiming that he is far down the list... could be! Parker wants a puppy for Christmas and I'm sure Santa would love to bring him one if only Mrs. Claus would let him...

Caroline is 18 months old and an absolute Diva!! She is demanding and spoiled and I have no idea how that happened! She plays well with Parker during the day but awaits her Daddy's home coming each day with much anticipation. He is definitely her favorite person and it's no wonder... he gives in to her at the tiniest pout. Her teenage years should be a blast.

Todd is doing well. Just about into his 10th year with Verizon. He's also continuing his education and I couldn't be prouder of him. Despite many Hunting excursions the deer continue to allude him. I think he's falling asleep out there but he denies it vehemently!

I am happy and feel very blessed. I am writing often. I am also working out a lot more that I ever have before. Still, weight comes off a lot slower that it goes on. That's not fair!

Once again Liz ROHDE has managed to take some adorable photos of my unruly children. Thanks Liz! I know we'll never get that perfect shot I will keep trying!!

Scott Kids Fall Pics

2009-12-05T14:27:00.000-08:00

Liz Rhode is our renter and photo-journalist extraordinaire. Luckily, she really likes my kids, too. She was so patient following them around the woods. We never did get that "perfect pic" but we really did capture the kids in their "natural state"!

We took these pics before we went to Disney. It was a good idea. When we got back from Florida, the leaves had all turned and it seemed like fall was over. Today it has been snowing all day so even though the calendar doesn't say so, I think Fall is pretty much over in Pennsylvania!

Posting to say I will be posting...

2009-11-12T20:55:00.000-08:00

So I have no pictures on this laptop but I wanted to post a note to tell you that I will be posting soon... I promise!! See my facebook page for a link to some Disney pictures. Sebastian is a roller coaster junkie, Parker becomes speechless when presented with a pretty face (i.e.; Cinderella) and Caroline is the prettiest princess of them all!

Here's a picture of my new (used) mini-van before I smacked my mirror on my neighbor's mailbox (sshhhh... he doesn't know) and lost a tail light cover somewhere between here and Florida.

See you soon!

Palmyra

2009-07-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

So we decided last week that we should go to the Hill Cumorah pageant. (I should mention that Jenny made me feel really bad for never having been and bugged me for weeks to go.) At any rate, Tiffany and her two boys and Rachel and me and my three kids and Jenny trekked to upstate NY to Palmyra for the annual Hill Cumorah Pageant. It really was amazing and I am so glad we went. The boys got along pretty well. I didn't get any pictures of the actual

pageant because it is dark and we were on a blanket right in front of the stage which does not allow for an excellent view, but it was still amazing.

Our first stop was the Palmyra temple which actually reminds me a lot of the Sacramento temple. It was raining but we did manage to convince the boys to share the umbrella for some of the time. The babies seemed content enough, anyway! Very beautiful but a little too wet. Next we went into town for lunch and the bookstore (I know, shopping is my favorite part of any trip).

We went to the Sacred Grove on day two and it was amazingly beautiful. I want to go for a walk there every morning!

I wish I had gotten a picture of the protesters or at least the cute "living scriptures" guy who convinced Jenny that she needed to buy hundreds of DVDs for her future children. (In her defense, Jenny does plan on having like twenty kids.) Anyway, then we went to the hotel... in Rochester!! (Anything close to the pageant was booked!) The hotel was the kids' favorite part up to this point. The pool, the beds to jump on, who wouldn't love that? They definitely enjoyed the continental breakfast the next morning (make your own waffles-heck yeah!). But I sincerely think they enjoyed the pageant as well. Parker kept exclaiming "JESUS" everytime he saw him he begged me to let him go and see Jesus. That was a little tough to explain. There was a point when Christ spoke of "little children" and Bash was very sure he was supposed to go up onto the stage then. Anyway, I think it really brought the story to life for them, because the entire trip home was filled with role playing Lamanites versus Nephites. Awesome.

Future prophets and apostles here, people.

The Beach in SF

2009-07-03T08:30:00.000-07:00

After exploring the city we went to the beach. The boys LOVED it. It was a bit too cold and loud for Caroline, I think. Honestly, I think the water in Northern California is too cold for everyone but the surfers. It was a lot of fun though. These trips always make me want to move back to California.

Sebastian ran right into the water!

Parker did not embrace the water as quickly as Bash.

Then he fell in.

Cali trying to escape.

Bash with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Bash looks like he's surfing. He's a California boy just like Daddy.

Cali with Gail. They're keeping each other warm!

Cali contemplates.

Parker wouldn't let go of Jenny's hand for the longest time. I'm so grateful she was there, she and Parker have a special bond... they're both stubborn as hell.

If you're going to San Francisco...

2009-06-15T19:18:00.000-07:00

...be sure to wear a sweatshirt because it can get chilly right there off the water. :)

The next day we decided to go to San Fran. Well, actually, Todd had no interest in going. Maybe he saw enough of it growing up in Nor Cal but I would spend everyday there if he'd let me. At any rate, he insisted Jenny, the kids and I have adult supervision and my friend Gail wanted to go anyway so that worked out well. :)

Gail, Jenny, Park and Bash. Sebastian and Parker on Embarcadero. Bash posing at the crab.

Jenny had never been there and I still enjoy the tourist stuff so we did the usual; Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, etc. The Pier was probably the kids' favorite. As soon as Bash saw another kid doing Bungee Trampoline he was absolutely insistent that he could do it too. Truthfully, I had my doubts because this kid is not exactly a dare devil. But I thought it was a reasonable price so I let him go. I'm so glad I did because he looked like he was having the time of his life! He told me that this is how Astronauts train to go into space and he was so proud of himself. Of course, Parker wanted to do it then as well and Park is definitely a dare devil so I let him. Parker does not like to show his feelings very much so he would turn his head when he smiled so we wouldn't see him but after ward he had a huge smile for me! So Fun!!

At that point, I think the kids assumed it was an "anything goes with Mom" sort of day because then they spotted the carousel and of course we had to ride.

After that was the obligatory visit to the Sea Lions who live at the Pier. Everyone was fascinated. Caroline was very frustrated that she couldn't touch them and Parker was absolutely mesmerized. Sebastian did his best Sea Lion impression.

Off the Pier we saw lots of ships and that really impressed the kids. Bash was sure one ship was "Zack and Cody's" ship. (If you watch the Disney Channel you will know what I am talking about!)

We also ran into sponge bob. Yea...

At the end of the Pier we had lunch at Bubba Gump, which is my favorite. Even Jenny had Shrimp and she isn't crazy about it.

After the Pier we headed down Embarcadero toward Ghirardelli Square. We stopped to watch the bakers at Boudin Sourdough's Demonstration Bakery. Gail bought us a sourdough turtle but Parker bit its head off before I got a picture. Those bakers are amazing though. This lady was making a fish and there in front of Bash is a Crocodile (Retails for around $50). So Cool.

After that was Ghirardelli Square. OK, of you haven't been to Ghirardelli Square in a while (or ever) I strongly recommend a little shop called "Kara's Cupcakes". Nothing but cupcakes which are delicious if slightly over-priced ($3.25 each; $36 for a dozen). I am a sucker for good merchandising though and this place was perfect. If I had a cupcake shop (or any kind of shop for that matter) I would want it to look exactly like this place. So cute.

Gail generously bought a dozen for us to take home and share with Todd (who, as I have previously mentioned, is slightly fanatical about cake: I always say he's a fat guy on the inside).

So next we went to Ghirardelli for ice cream which Parker mostly slept through but the rest of us enjoyed thoroughly. Caroline even thought the menu might be tasty.

We had a really great time and hit the beach after that but that will have have to wait for another post...

Birthday Picnic for Maggie

2009-06-15T19:04:00.000-07:00

Before coming to visit, Todd and I decided that we should have a picnic for his Mom with her siblings and their kids. I think everyone had a good time. Although I guess I was busy because I didn't get too many pics (besides our immediate family),

Kaitlyn, Chris, Aly, Cali, Nonna and Emma.

The kids decided to put on a show for us. It was mostly Bash just telling us they weren't ready and Parker yelling "Madagascar". The other kids weren't nearly as bossy and/or obnoxious as mine. Hmmm I wonder where they get those qualities?

Aly, Emma, Bash, Parker and Jenny.

Parker has an infatuation with cake and cake-related foods. I certainly hope he inherited his Father's metabolism along with his love for cake.

A long, fun day!

Sacramento Temple

2009-06-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

Our second day in California we went to visit some of my old co-workers in Rancho Cordova and then we went to Folsom to show the kids the Sacramento Temple.

(I think it's so ironic that the Temple is in the same town as a notorious prison!)

Sebastian in front of the Temple and Angel Moroni.

Parker picked a flower for me at the Temple (is that wrong?).

The boys playing around the fountain.

Todd and I (with flowers from Park in my hair!). So happy!

Todd and Caroline (who did NOT want to be held!).

It was an unusually gray day in Sacramento but it made for good pictures and nice temps!

We're On Our Way...Eventually

2009-06-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

So we decided to surprise Todd's Mom, Maggie, for her birthday with a visit to Sacramento. Jenny (our part-time Nanny) and I were dreading the flight with the kids so a few days before we went and bought them each a DVD player and a few new movies, some art supplies and lots of good snacks for the plane. We kept all the new stuff a secret until we got on the plane.

Bash was happy with his new DVD player.

Jenny tried to get some sleep on the 7 hour flight.

Caroline looking very tired.

Todd and Parker had more luck with sleeping.

After we finally arrived in San Francisco I couldn't get the boys to stay still for a photo op. I guess that's the most you can expect after forcing them to sit still for such a long time.

I should mention an interesting happening. We had a 5:45am flight out of DC so we left the house at midnight to arrive at the airport around 3:00am. At about 4:30am Todd went to the "departures" screen (the ticket counter was still closed) to make sure our flight was leaving on time. He came back and said he couldn't find our flight on the board. We looked at our flight reservations again (which I had made) and Todd asked, "Are you sure that "DCA" is Dulles Airport? (for those of you who live in this area you will know what I am talking about) and I said"Um... no it's not... DCA is Reagan..." Needless to say there was a time of Todd not speaking to me and ordering us all downstairs to catch a cab to Reagan for our flight which was leaving in one hour. So Todd, Jenny, myself, the two boys and Caroline in a stroller, 6 suitcases, 3 car seats, 10 carry-on pieces sprint down the escalator. Did I mention that Reagan is 40 minutes from Dulles? Well, two $60 cab fares and a reenactment of the "running through the airport" scene from home alone (1 and 2) we were the last people on the plane. But we did make it. Here is a pic of all the luggage we had to lug around. Of course, we did not have the luxury of the smart carte at that moment. I'm not really sure how we carried everything, actually.

Caroline's First Birthday

2009-05-18T20:27:00.000-07:00

You're Invited!

To a Mothers and Daughters Tea Party in Honor of Caroline's First Birthday!

Saturday, May 16, 2009 at Four O'Clock

She wore her Birthday Dress from Grandma Scott, her tiara from Sister Knight, her "Nursery Princess" bracelet and adorable (magnetic) earrings.

So many of our friends came to celebrate with us. Luckily, they are all very tolerant of my "girly-ness"!

Our Little princess. She likes her "tea" a lot. She asks politely for another cucumber sandwich!

Caroline and Bekah enjoy the birthday cup cake!What an adorable cake. Who could have made such a thing? It was me. All me. I did have a practice run that didn't go so well.
Todd didn't mind though. That man loves his cake! He made a "cake sandwich".
She loves her birthday chair from Mom Mom. Notice the adorable blanket that Nanny Jenny made for her, as well as her cute bathing suit from Nonna! The bear on her lap is from Parker.

It was quite an Event! Although, I think I confused a new member of the church who is from Bolivia. She asked, "I'm confused. In the United States... are Mormons allowed to drink tea?" I had to clarify that while we were calling it a "Tea Party" our cups were filled with harmless lemonade. Perhaps I should have put a disclaimer somewhere on the Invite!

Speaking of the cups, Jenny, Liz and I spent a few hours one day painting them with cute little flowers and swirling vines. I thought I should put some sort of glaze on them before I washed them. I glazed them and they smelled so bad I thought for sure they would poison anyone who drank from them (frankly, I thought a poisoned tea cup would make for a perfect, dramatic end to a princess tea party but probably not worth it in the long run...) Anyway, I decided to wash the stinky cups and of course all of the cute paint came off. So now my tea cups were stinky, foggy and no longer adorably painted. Next time I am just going to buy a damn tea set. Can't wait until next year!!!

Little Miss Sunshine

2009-05-18T18:57:00.000-07:00

I know, I know. I seem to be favoring Caroline but really it's because she's the only one of my kids who will sit still for any length of time...and I'm sure that won't last much longer!She's cruising along the furniture now and trying so hard to walk on her own. It won't be long before I will only be posting pictures of her as she runs away from me, just like her brothers!

Mom Mom's Mother's Day Surprise

2009-05-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

So, we didn't get to see Mom Mom on Mother's Day and I didn't get much of a break on Mother's Day because Todd had lots of meetings and a Finance Final to complete and the Elders showed up to call their Moms. Anyway, we decided that we would have a special Day-After Mother's Day Surprise Celebration!

Parker and Bash and I worked hard on the cupcakes, as you can tell from the last post. I also worked hard on dinner as well as keeping my kids and house clean all day until Mom came over. It was exhausting, as well a lost cause... but such is a Mother's life!

My Mom feigns surprise at her gifts... a salt and pepper shaker to replace the ones my kids had broken at Easter! Yea! She did get a bonus matching butter dish!

And she reads the cards the kids picked out for her. If it were up to my kids all cards would be those singing cards. Those things are like five bucks though, so we reserve them for out-of-town loved ones who don't get to see us very often!

Caroline enjoyed the cupcakes as well.

We all enjoyed our Mother's Day dinner and I enjoyed not cleaning up! Thanks honey!!

I'm pretty sure Mom Mom likes getting the kids all riled up before she leaves. I think she thinks of it as a small piece of revenge for my teenage years!
This was us attempting to get a cute pic of the kids with Mom Mom. As usual, Parker was the most difficult of the bunch. (See Parker's introduction post!)

Happy Mother's Day to my Mom, Mother in law, Sisters in law and all my Mom friends!

How to Make Mother's Day Cupcakes with Parker

2009-05-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

Find Parker and ask him to pick his favorite cake mix

(he will definitely be more interested in picking out the icing)!

Parker picked yellow cake and chocolate icing. Add cake mix to mixer.

Crack the eggs for him before he adds them to the bowl!

Add water and oil.

Mix!

If you can't understand him Parker says the mixer goes "round and round and round and round... in circles Mommy!" When I ask him who we are making cake for he says "delicious!" I love the look of anticipation on his face. At the end he says "It's done Mommy!" Parker LOVES cake!

Make sure the batter tastes good!

Next we fill the cupcake pans. We like mini cupcakes. What a mess.

Now we get to lick the bowl. And the Spatula. And the scooper.

Caroline wants to taste too! Let's check on the cupcakes! "Mmmmm! Mommy I think they are done!"

Now we have to wait for them to cool. And wait. And wait!

We let Bastian help with the icing!

Pure Heaven...

Strange Visitors from the West...

2009-05-07T22:02:00.000-07:00

Ok so it was just Todd's Aunt Donna and Uncle Ray but we had fun and it made us really miss California and all of our family and friends there!

When Bash was a baby he couldn't say "Donna" and always called her "Nonna" which Donna liked because it's sort of like the Italian term for Grandma.

Anyway, now all my kids call her "Nonna". Cute!

Here are some cute pics Nonna took and a few that I took.

A trip to Target can really make our day! Thank goodness our town was finally civilized enough to get a Target (6months ago)... since then my quality of life has gone WAY up!

Caroline in one of her tutu's. It just felt like a tutu kind of day! She seemed to agree. She likes to put it up to cover her face, showing eveyone her little bloomers. Yea!

The boys are enjoying the gifts that Grandma sent along with Nonna. We sure miss Grandma and Grandpa Scott!

Caroline is modeling the new swimsuit she got for her birthday from Nonna. So freakin' cute!

She is really trying to enjoy her apple with all 6 teeth! I think one of her brothers gave her a head start. I think she looks so much like her Mommy in these! Adorable!

We can't wait to see everyone at DisneyWorld in October! We miss you guys!

Families Can Be Together Forever...

2009-04-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

"Families can be together forever. Through Heavenly Father's Plan..."
I like to sing this song to my kids when they are not being cooperative. I don't think they appreciate my singing very much.

I just wanted to get some cute pics of them in their matching chairs. My Mom has bought them all these adorable chairs from pottery barn for each of their first birthdays. Caroline's came the other day but evidently no one was in the mood for a photo op.

What can I say? They're cute even when they're not.

Sthoccer is Sthuper Cool!

2009-04-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

This is kind of mean because Bash has a tiny lisp which I think is adorable and which he is rapidly growing out of, dang it. Anyway, he is totally crazy for Soccer (Sthoccer) and here are some great pics. In his first game he scored 6 times. 4 times for his own team and twice for the other, which I thought was very generous of him!

Bash celebrating after one of his goals. He really is a natural athlete, for which I cannot take credit. Todd is very graceful and athletic. Sadly, I am just a tad uncoordinated when it comes to sports.

Half time snack and the post-game wrap up. They don't keep score but I'm pretty sure we won!

Easter...er whatever

2009-04-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

Easter is sort of a stressful day when you are in the primary presidency. You want to make sure the kids get the whole resurrection theme, but you also know they are all sugared up from the early-morning candy binge. Herein lies the dilemma: Do you attempt to teach them something deep and meaningful or do you take the "low road" and wind them up even more before sending them back to their parents? We tried both, which didn't go so smoothly and also explains why I look toasted in the Easter pics. I knew we were about to head home so I grabbed Jenny (second counselor and Nanny extraordinaire) and made her take a picture before their carefully coordinated outfits could get covered in chocolate. Sigh. Still waiting for those Easter-Egg hunt pics, too.

I love my adorable husband and daughter. What more can I say?

The Land of Super heroes, Pirates and Chubby Ballerinas

2009-04-26T19:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some cute pics of the kids in various states of dress-up. They love to put on costumes. It's a real pain when potty training. That spidey suit is really hard to get in and out of.

I always thought tiny baby ponytails looked obnoxious and stupid. I just can't seem to help myself, though!

Parker makes the best monkey face!

Bash was dressed up for circus day at school.

Okay, so it's pretty obvious that I dressed her up like this.

I have a whole new appreciation for tutus as a fashion statement!

Parker makes an adorable pirate. I was showing the kids the real-life pirate on TV and they were really worried that he must have left his hat somewhere. I can't help but wonder about this new interest in reporting on pirates... does Disney control international crime too?

What a shamless way to promote a movie!

The kids also love star wars and any play fighting. Remember all of those reports that claimed if children watched violent programs they would act more violently? I really thought that was all bull. I now believe it. Spiderman, Transformers, Star Wars, and even Indiana Jones DVDs have all gone missng in our house, coincidentally.

(Relax, I occasionally "find" the movies and allow them to watch just to assure myself I am doing the right thing! )

More often than not, Parker's number one costume choice is the pirate hat (adorably too big for his head) and a batman cape.

One day I'm sure I will miss the days of super heroes and pirates.

A cold day in January

2009-04-26T18:53:00.000-07:00

I think this is the most perfect snow angel I've seen. Of course, it was made by my perfect angel Sebastian. ;)

It's beautiful here when it snows... until it melts and turns to gray slush and muddy floors for Mommy to clean!

Here's Bash

And ParkBash has taken to sledding much better than swimming. Parker is the opposite. He hates everything cold and loves the water. Here he contributes to the snow shoveling effort in his own small way while his brother sleds!

Christmas Eve

2009-01-21T06:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Dinner was just us plus one guest. I made Cornish Game Hens. So cute. The kids thought having their own "turkey" was so cool.

Parker likes his sparkling cider A LOT! Chug-a-lug Park.

Bash opening his first gift on Christmas Eve.

Rayna helps Parker open his present.

Caroline likes her "Little Einsteins" June Doll.

The Scott kids get ready for bed. It was a tradition in Todd's family to take a photo of all the kids under the tree. We like that tradition!

Todd gave me a digital camera for Christmas. He gave it to me Christmas eve... I guess he knew I'd want to take pictures. Very thoughtful. It was a really nice and peaceful Christmas Eve. If only I could say the same about Christmas Day...

It Started at about 4 am... I forgot how hard it is to be a kid on Christmas Day.

Actually, if I remember correctly, the hardest part is waiting in your room when you're parents say you can't get up until 7:30am. Remember That? It was torture! Unfortunately, my kids can't really tell time. They can definitely tell that the sun isn't up yet but that didn't stop them at all!

After Santa ... Before Kids!

Arriving at Mom Mom and Grandpa's House.

Grandpa is his usual Holiday Cheermeister Self. (Sarcasm)

Cali and Mom Mom. So cute!

Christmas Pics: The Blooper Reel

2008-12-23T11:44:00.000-08:00

Conveniently, we have a professional photographer living in our guest room in the basement. She attempted to get some cute pics of all 3 kids together... to no avail. I am convinced that it is nearly impossible to get 3 children, 5 and under, to smile at the exact same time and not be messing with their clothes, picking their noses, etc. Here are the results. Individually, we got some adorable stuff. Also, it was Caroline's naptime: this is a rookie mistake and I am ashamed to have made it!

Cali eating her shoe. ...and then laughing with her eyes half closed.

Bash always feels the need to cock his head when posing.

Not sure what was going on here.

Cali is curious about the camera.

Park has turned nose-picking into an art form.

I'll have better luck when they get older and I can bribe and/or threaten them... Right?

Merry Christmas!

So we left the wilderness for the day...

2008-12-15T17:38:00.000-08:00

I decided I needed to get out of town. So, Parker (the wild one) stayed home with Daddy while Sebastian, Caroline, Jenny and I went to Manhattan for the day. We had so much fun. The weather was great (for NYC in December!) and the kids were happy. Of course I had Jenny, my trusty Nanny, by my side. She is so great with my kids (and me!). I should warn you that all of these pics were taken with my camera phone.

This is Jenny and Bash at Rockefeller Center. He enjoyed watching the ice skaters. But he LOVED the BIG Tree!

We parked at Lincoln Center, right by the Manhattan Temple. We didn't get a good pic of it, but here are Sebastian, Caroline and I in front of the entrance.

We ate at Olive Garden in Times Square (Caroline loved the chicken and gnocchi Soup!) and Bash loved that we ate "up high". We could see Times Square and Hershey's. (Not a big Deal since we live near Hershey, PA!).

The highlight of the day was FAO Schwartz. Sebastian talked about playing on the big piano all day.

Caroline loved watching him jump on the piano.

It was a really fun day. Traffic was light and Jenny and I didn't get lost at all. Yea!!

Parker's Birthday

2008-11-24T21:20:00.000-08:00

So his actual birthday isn't until December 21 but I, being the social butterfly that I am, am always completely booked around the holidays. Plus, I don't think it's fair to Parker. Anyways...

we had his 3rd birthday party November 8th (Happy birthday Scooter!!). I am kind of against character parties but I let Parker have one anyway (He LOVES the Backyardigans). The birthday boy was asleep for the first part of the party and after that he kept saying "I want a Backyardigans party!" I think he actually thought the Backyardigans were going to be here. Oops. All in all a good party.

2008-11-24T21:17:00.000-08:00

I love that Parker's shirt is tucked into his undies.

Pretty PA

2008-11-24T20:59:00.000-08:00

So it's snowing here and so pretty. Living in California I forgot how pretty it is here, especially in the fall. The boys were having fun in the fall weather... not too hot and not too cold. We collect leaves and go for walks. Now that it's colder, Bash and I are working on a puppet show for Thanksgiving. Parker is still working on potty training, Caroline is working on sitting up and Todd is mostly just working. He told me the other day that working retail is beginning to make him hate the holiday season. Can't say I blame him. I worked 2 weeks at Target in Orem, Utah during Christmas one year and that was enough to make me hate human kind in general. ("Do you have anymore "tickle me elmo"? can you go look? can you order more?" blah blah blah)

But in general I will say that I love this time of year. I restrained myself and didn't start listening to Christmas music until November this year. Mostly because I started in September last year and was entirely sick of it by Christmas. My Christmas shopping is basically done (and wrapped, thanks to Hazel!) and I feel like now I can enjoy the holidays; decorating, baking, dressing up the kids for corny Christmas pics. So FUN!

Caroline

2008-11-10T20:51:00.001-08:00

This is Caroline Casey Scott and she is beautiful. We are all enamored with her. She is a happy 6 month old and seems to know exactly how to please each of us in her family. Her first smile was for Daddy, she giggles on demand for Sebastian, she doesn't seem to mind Parker's unneccessary roughness (Parker has become inexplicably protective over her and pushes down any strange child who gets too close... even little girls), and she will happily snuggle with Mommy whenever I desire. Did I mention she is adorable? I sigh everytime I look at her. She is not all perfect, though. She has earned the nickname "Barfarella"

around those who know her because she will happily barf in your face (or hair, or mouth, or cleavage) without batting a gorgeous eyelash. Todd says she is my doll because I enjoy dressing her immensely. She must always have a matching bow and, if possible, she should match her Mother. After two rough and tumble boys I was ready for pink and frilly. She doesn't seem to mind...yet.

Parker

2008-11-10T20:20:00.001-08:00

This is Parker Gary Scott and he is 3. He is a naughty boy. If there is trouble Parker will find it, triple it and cut out before he can be blamed for it. He is very charming and adorable (as you can see) and this makes him even more dangerous. (He reminds me a lot of his Uncle Nick this way!) Man, is he fun, though! When I am cross with him he will get in my face with a big cheesy grin and say "mommy! I am smiling at you!" at which time resistance is futile. Parker enjoys jumping on beds, the backyardigans and the frosting on your piece of cake. He is the only person in our family who enjoys animals and would definitely have preferred a puppy over his baby sister. He is beginning to find little ways of retaliating against his big brother. He is a head smaller than Bash but is not afraid to smack him and run away quickly. His newly discovered way to get back at Sebastian is to lure him into their room and lock Bash in. When Bash realizes he is locked in he begins threatening Parker from inside the room. I order Parker to unlock the door and then advise him to "Run Parker, Run!" Kids are fun. He gets sad when Daddy leaves for work and elated when he comes home. Parker is under the impression that he is in charge of things around here. He may be right. This day he was on particularly bad behavior but we did somehow manage to get a cute shot of Mom Mom and the Kids.

Bash

2008-11-10T20:00:00.000-08:00

This is Sebastian Sload Scott and he is 5. He enjoys pre-school,
long walks on the playground and tormenting his little brother.
He likes to tell people "I was Mommy's first baby". He digs legos and super heroes and singing for any audience. Bash thinks his Daddy is the greatest and if you ask him why he is so cute he'll say "Because I look just like my Daddy!" He has a very close relationship with his Grandpa Grossman (they call eachother every day) and wants to marry his baby sister "so I can always take care of her!" He wants to be a "builder-guy" like his uncles and Grandpa or an artist like his Uncle Casey (in California). He loves getting phone calls and definitely thinks he is a pretty big deal.

Who has time to blog?

2008-11-10T19:41:00.000-08:00

Seriously? We just wanted to post pics of our adorable kids. Sigh. I guess we could say a few things. My name is Amanda and he is Todd and we have been giddily married for almost 8 years. We have 3 children and sometimes we look at them and wonder how that happened. (I will introduce them separately.) Let's see...what else? We live in a tiny town called Selinsgrove in Pennsylvania and we hope to grow old here. ("What is that close to?" People always ask. About and hour northeast of Harrisburg; an hour and a half southwest of Scranton.) Todd is from Sacramento, California and I am from Lancaster, PA. We moved here about 3 years ago... it's a great place to raise a family. The Church is a big part of our lives and we enjoy our tiny ward immensely. Welcome to our blog!