FROM HEAVEN AND EARTH ♥♥THE ORTON FAMILY♥♥

FINDING A REASON TO SMILE

2012-01-29T17:20:00.000-05:00

After a week of the stomach flu and the tragic news of my friend Lisa (who I am still reeling over) I needed to focus on the good, even though sometimes that is really,really hard to do...but that's what we're supposed to do, right? So I scooped up my youngest (the rest of the gang went to shoot some hoops together) and we danced. How I love this boy.

And my sister. She crocheted an elephant for Brady. An early adoption gift. It came in a used saltine box. That alone made me smile. But my heart smiled BIG when I saw that it was an elephant. A little reminder of Ben...I loved that.

And Brady LOVES it.

He gave it the taste test and approved.

Then I snagged Steve for an impromptu trip to the temple. It's been awhile since we went together and having children old enough to babysit made it a little easier to drop everything and run.

I spent a lot of time thinking about my friend Lisa...and Ben of course. At one point I leaned over to Steve and said, "I wish I could see Ben" to which Steve replied as if he really knew, "I don't think we'll see him today." I looked at him and said "Why not?!?" to which he leaned over really close and whispered..."Because I think he's a little busy helping Noah show Aaron the ropes." That made me smile. If that were the case, then I was okay with that. I could wait another day for a visit from Ben.

After the temple we went to my favorite grocery store, Trader Joe's. They don't have one near us so any chance I get I go. We were 3/4 of the way through our shopping when the lights go out. Not only does OUR store lights go out, but the WHOLE complex of stores went black. (like over 50 stores including a LARGE movie theater) It was quite eerie. The store people ushered us to the front with our food because they only had 15 minutes of battery life in the registers. It was so dark in the store that I couldn't find Steve with our cart full of food, I stayed behind to try and find one last item. The price of the food didn't ring up either so each item she rang up we had to guess. I'm hoping we walked out a little under price rather than over...but I'm not sure we did and won't ever know since there was no receipt printed out either. We walked out to a completely dark parking lot...this picture below is exactly what it looked like. There was just a few car lights and random small lights here and there. We made it out just in time.

From there we hit Panera Bread...Steve had another place in mind but it was prime time eats and most restaurants had an hour plus waiting period.

I'm a fan of Panera but it's not exactly the most 'manly' place to eat...soup, sandwiches and salads. I quite enjoyed my greek salad with a side of bread! :)

As a consolation we hopped next door to 'Cold Stone'. Ever been there? If not, you must! They scoop your ice cream, throw it on a cold stone...and chop in your choice of toppings right there in front of you. I'm sure you can probably guess whose is who?

Steve picked cheesecake with graham crackers mixed in, I chose my all-time favorite chocolate with peanut butter cups and peanut butter. It was a great way to end the night...

SORROW

2012-01-27T12:59:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I woke up with a sour stomach. I knew the time had come. I finally succumbed to the stomach flu. It has been a week since my family brought it into the house, a week of taking care of puking children and a puking husband. I was praying that before it hit full force I would be able to get Kaleb up to his doctor appointment at Dartmouth and back. I couldn't post pone this one. So I loaded up Brady, who is still battling diarrhea, and Kaleb and we made the long drive up. As I was sitting in the doctor's office my sister Jenny called. I had just chatted with her on the way up so it made me wonder why she was calling again. I had to ignore her call as I was in the middle of talking to the doctor. Then I felt my phone vibrate again, this time she left a text message. I told myself I would look at it when I was done with the doctor. 15 minutes later I walked out with Brady into the lobby while Kaleb finished up and looked at my phone. This is what it said..."Becky, have you spoken to Lisa King? I can't believe what I am reading on face book is true...did Aaron really pass away last night?!?" I was in shock. I called Jenny right away and said "WHAT?!?" She read me Lisa's post on face book about her husband passing away from what they think was a major heart attack. How could that be? How could this happen to THEM? Just four short months ago they said goodbye their sweet son Noah. He was 10 years old and a lot like Ben. It was a hard loss...especially for his dad. I can't help but think that he must have died of a broken heart. So there I was, in the middle of this lobby, outside the doctor's office SOBBING! And wanting to vomit. I ran out of there as fast as I could...and I couldn't get home fast enough. I needed to write to Lisa, to tell her just how sorry I am, even though what I wanted to do is get on the first plane out and fly there in person so that I could wrap my arms around her. But instead I curled up on the couch with my fever and vomiting and sobbed some more.

I've never met Lisa and Aaron in person because they live in Australia, but we've become as close as you could possibly be without ever meeting. Steve and I were planning on flying to Tasmania for our 20th Wedding Anniversary in 18 months so we could finally meet them.

Now I'll be going alone...someday soon I hope.

I love you Lisa King! You will NEVER get over this...but with the help of your Heavenly Father, your family and your friends, you WILL get through this.

You can go here to read more:

http://lisajking.blogspot.com/

FLU X2 (continues)

2012-01-24T14:29:00.000-05:00

Poor, poor Cop. It was a rough night. He who was bragging that he escaped this plague has been hit TWICE in the last three days.

And THIS cute boy? I was hoping and praying that it would pass him by. Today it hit...and all he wants to do is to be on my lap.

Even in his misery, he still manages to smile...

FRESH FROM HIS NAP

2012-01-22T12:30:00.000-05:00

FLU X2

2012-01-21T12:11:00.000-05:00

Remember that girl with the mask? She was down for the count all day yesterday. The flu hit fast and furious...thank goodness for 'just cleaned' toilets.

And just when 'girl with the mask' started perking up...sister #1 got hit. She had spent all day at a friend's house. I get a phone call, "Mom, my stomach is hurting!" she says. "I'll be right there," was my reply. 25 minutes later I'm in her friend's driveway as Kayla climbs into the truck. She had already thrown up...in her friend's bathroom. Of course she didn't mention that small detail to her friend. Nothing like a 'puke and run'. We drive the long drive home, occasionally opening the window in 7 degree weather so that she can hold back the urge to vomit again. We make it three houses up from our own before she's jumping out of the truck to leave her mark on our neighbor's lawn. (you're welcome neighbor!) Nothing like a 'drive by puke'. We make it home and before it hits midnight she repeats 5 more times. Poor, poor girl.

The good news? Stevie is back to her perky self this morning. The bad news? There are 3 still standing...

EXPERIMENTING WITH FOOD

2012-01-20T13:48:00.002-05:00

Oh this child...he's a funny one when it comes to food. My other kids took to it right away. Brady? Not so much. He shivers, he spits, he gags and even vomits. Today I tried a little baby cereal with some winter squash that I baked. Nope, wasn't having it. So far the only thing I can really get him to swallow is a mango smoothie. I'm hoping this isn't a sign of things to come. Even as a bottle baby, he's sometimes difficult. I have noticed a 'balding spot' in the center of his tongue that seems to have grown big...anyone else out there ever notice something like that on their baby's tongue? I'm wondering if that has anything to do with his aversion. He won't suck on a pacifier but he's got this infatuation of trying to suck on blankets when he is falling asleep.

The good news? He's still smiling. Well...mostly. :)

A LITTLE BIT OF TODAY

2012-01-19T20:50:00.000-05:00

So last night was a bear. I had a later than usual night because I forgot I had a "Shutterfly" coupon that expired at midnight that I wanted to use. So I stayed up finishing a project and ordering it til midnight. I walked up stairs, climbed into bed and 30 minutes later Brady wakes. I just barely had fallen asleep. It was a painful awakening. I feed him and 15 minutes later I fall back under my covers. 1:30am I awake to bright lights and a looming child over my head. "My stomach hurts". Great. "Turn the lights out Kaleb and go lay back down" I tell him. He tells me he can't...so instead of quietly enduring his pain, he needs to let the whole house know how miserable he is. (we're working on this) Brady wakes from the noise and so I feed him and get him back to sleep and leave my warm covers to go help Kaleb. I didn't do much except stand in the bathroom doorway and talk to him while he paced and moaned. Finally around 2:30am he throws up. I'm grateful. This means I can tuck him back into bed (after I clean up) and climb back in myself. Brady wakes at 4am and then Kaleb at 5am to throw up again. Steve's up by 5:15am and then it's my turn at 6am. It was a short night. Thankfully I had nothing on my calendar so I stayed put for most of the day. Because of the lack of sleep my heart started acting up around 4am and then every time I tried to rest during the day. It was a yucky feeling. I spent the afternoon with Brady at both girls games. Stevie's team won by a lot...and Kayla's team by 4 thanks to a little help by Brady. What?!? There was 6 seconds left, Gilford was up by 2 with a Gilford player on the line for a 'one and one'. The first shot goes in...Gilford is up by 3. She lines up to take her second shot and out of nowhere I hear this weird 'plunking' noise. I'm across the gym keeping score in the score book and trying to figure out WHO is being rude during the foul shot. (usually the gym is silent during free throws) The Gilford player misses her shot and it was at this point that I realized that "rude" person is my son. His bottle cap popped off his bottle and 'plunked' onto the gym floor. The ref orders the Gilford girl to re-shoot her foul shot. This time it goes in. Gilford wins by 4. Brady is the youngest player in history to make an assist. It was quite humorous. (glad we didn't win by 1...there might have been a brawl) As we were driving home I tell the girls my stomach isn't feeling so well. I'm wondering if I have picked up Kaleb's bug. Next thing I know...THIS is what I'm viewing in the rear view mirror.

I ask Stevie why she's wearing a mask?!? "I'm afraid", she replies. And I laugh. (I laugh because WHO just whips out a mask from nowhere?)
Nobody likes the stomach flu...especially her.

(too bad she shared a mango smoothie with me that afternoon,

I'm pretty sure the mask won't help THAT fact.)
Praying the bug vacates soon.

4 MONTHS - LEARNING HOW TO SIT...

2012-01-18T09:48:00.002-05:00

FRIDAY SPECIAL

2012-01-14T10:27:00.001-05:00

There's always time for lunch with sisters (and their boys), right? I know life is busy, but life is also short. Any time I can soak up with family I do, even if it means driving 90 minutes to have lunch for an hour.

We ate at Chipotle this time, a fun little burrito place that serves all natural, organic products. I loved the warehouse look of the place.

We talked college and babies and new nieces and just life in general. It was a nice little break from the chaos of our everyday schedules.

And as always, the time goes way too fast. We ARE mother's after all and life doesn't stop just because we get together every once in awhile. We said our goodbyes and then I hit my most favorite grocery store before heading back to reality.

It was fun while it lasted.

Thanks for making time for me Jenny!

I TOLD BRADY THE GOOD NEWS...

2012-01-10T09:53:00.001-05:00

And THIS was his reaction!

We're growing our family yet AGAIN! Details coming soon.

(I always wanted a BIG family)

IT MAKES ME SMILE...

2012-01-08T22:42:00.000-05:00

When I see them together. I love it even more when he shares him with his school friends.

Makes a mother's heart swell. :)

FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE!

2012-01-07T11:22:00.002-05:00

BASKETBALL SEASON...

2012-01-06T22:41:00.003-05:00

My FAVORITE time of year!

4 MONTH BRADY

2012-01-04T13:20:00.001-05:00

NY's EVE FUN!

2012-01-01T12:16:00.000-05:00

We had a quiet but fun NY's Eve with some cute friends of Kayla. Lots of games were played including Quelf. That game is QU-AZY! :)

At a few minutes before midnight, we all lined up at the door with our items to run around the house (barefoot) with. There was no snow on the ground this year so it wasn't as hard as previous years.

Morning breakfast included cinnamon rolls...

And the party continued that night with MORE games. This time we moved the buns to the FRONT of the head.

We meant serious business. :)

And then the company left us and we lived happily ever after.

THE END!

COUSIN CHAOS

2011-12-31T11:35:00.000-05:00

Even though I wasn't on the ball this year...taking very many pictures of the cousin's visit...they still had lots of fun. Besides, the pictures that I DID get (actually Uncle Steve took them) sums up their stay. FOOD, GAMES and SLEEP. (In that order) Good times.

THERE IS BEAUTY ALL AROUND...

2011-12-30T22:20:00.000-05:00

When there's LOVE at home!

FAMILY PICTURES 2011

2011-12-29T10:46:00.000-05:00

I LOVE this picture...it shows the chaos of trying to get organized for pictures. You'd think the older kids got, the easier it would be. Nope, not so. And even though picture day is probably my least favorite day of the year, I am always grateful for the result. I'm grateful to have another addition to our family and grateful for the blessings that he has brought in our lives. I included some of my favorite pictures...enjoy!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2011-12-25T16:02:00.000-05:00

For the GRAND finale of the day...

we had them open THIS gift last.

A 7 day vacation in April to Williamsburg, VA.

Of all the historic sites to see and visit, guess what they are MOST excited about? Busch Gardens. :) This will be our first (aside from Ben's Make-A-Wish trip) family vacation EVER! We are excited.

SURPRISE!

2011-12-23T16:55:00.001-05:00

I was JUST sitting and thinking about how I'd love a yummy treat when out of no where a KNOCK on my door. I opened to find THIS large box sitting on my door step.

There was no name so I have NO idea who sent this, but it was a really cute 3 tiered snowman full of GOODIES!

I'm all set for awhile...no more wishing for treats. :)

I'm a BIG fan of Mrs. Fields, I even have her cookie cookbook.

A BIG thank you for being so thoughtful and generous during this Christmas Season.

You've put a SMILE on my face and have made my tummy very HAPPY! Thank you for thinking of my family. We are grateful!

ONCE UPON A TIME...

2011-12-22T14:43:00.002-05:00

(many have asked for 'his' story...here it is)

Do you believe in miracles? Almost 10 years ago a little boy was born without a brain. He was given an almost zero chance to live. Through the faith and LOVE of his family, little Ben surpassed all odds and lived. He lived for 8 years. He was our miracle child. Before Ben died I looked into foster parenting, specifically for 'medically fragile' children. Steve encouraged me to wait because Ben was needing frequent hospital stays and he required around the clock care. I put my search on hold. About 5 months after he died I felt this urgency to start looking into fostering again. Steve wasn't thrilled. He worried that I was trying to fill a void that I wouldn't be able to. I tried to explain to him that wasn't it. Besides...I loved taking care of Ben and did such a wonderful job that I wanted to provide that same level of care and love for another less fortunate child. I enrolled in the classes. It wasn't easy. They were on school nights, 30 minutes away for 3 hours at a time. Even though Steve wasn't happy about me doing this, he knew that there wasn't much he could do to stop me. I was on a mission. I plowed through the classes by the middle of December and had about 10 big things to complete on my checklist before becoming certified. I lost steam after Christmas and put it on the back burner. Every once in a while my case worker would call and ask how I was doing on my certification. The guilt would propel me to finish a few more items on the check list. And then I would put it aside again. Finally in June she called me asking if I would be interested in doing 'respite care' for a 6 year old boy with big medical issues. YES! The fire was lit once again. I only had about 3 more things to do and so I hurried to finish. But then I didn't hear anything more about this child that needed respite or any other child for that matter. I kept thinking it would never happen. Then I got the phone call that changed our lives. August 24th, I was out water skiing with a friend and my daughters when the call came. It was my case worker. She told me about a 'safe haven' baby that was born the day before at the local hospital. The baby didn't have any parents to claim him and he needed a home to be fostered in with the intent to adopt him. Then she asked me if we were interested. Before I even had the chance to talk to Steve I said YES! We ran to meet him that night and fell in love with him. He was ready to go home the next morning and so in a scramble we raced around the morning of and bought all the necessities needed for a newborn baby. It was CRAZY! There is a reason why you have 9 months to prepare. It was becoming clear to me that the foster care intention was just an avenue to enable this baby to come to our home. He felt like he was ours the minute we met him. I continue to stand in awe of this whole process and the love that Heavenly Father has for each one of his children. Most of you know that I tried desperately to have more children. My pregnancies were so complicated and sometime dangerous. I spent most of the time either in bed vomiting or in the hospital vomiting. It was not easy getting the four children that I have here to this earth. Then in 2008 and 2009 I lost two pregnancies at 20 weeks and then 16 weeks. After the second loss I had to have an emergency surgery that rendered me unable to have anymore children. They were all really hard losses. I accepted the facts and moved on, focusing on Ben's declining health and my other 3 healthy children. The dream of a large family was put aside. Then came Brady. (that's what we are officially naming him) I consider him a miracle. He was the first 'safe haven' baby in 20 years. What are the chances? He's completely healthy and thriving. He's the baby I didn't think I would ever have. But he's here...he's our miracle baby. Everywhere we go people adore him and tell us how much he looks like our family, even people that don't know his story. And what a story it is. I'm truly grateful for this gift and I know that my Heavenly Father's hands were in this...and like I've said before, I can't help but think that Ben's hands were too.

I NEVER TIRE...

2011-12-16T13:26:00.000-05:00

...of this happy face.

And LOOK!!! He's found his toes. =)

HE PUTS THE 'SUN'

2011-12-12T13:35:00.000-05:00

in my 'SHINE'!

FAMILY PICTURE DAY!

2011-12-10T15:20:00.001-05:00

Christmas Cards coming to a mailbox near you....

BEN'S IN TOWN

2011-12-09T07:30:00.000-05:00

So of course I headed south...just to see him!

We were barely in the door when Jen and Aaron were arriving too and so we opted for a quick photo.

(I was a little distracted by my mom's awesome photo skills)

Brady was his usual happy self. :)

As a bonus, we got to see a good high school friend who has a baby 3 months older than Brady. She brought him over some clothes for him and we got to visit for a little while!

Because my mom's hip is bothering her terribly, she no longer can walk her dog...Ben and I gladly walked her dog for her the two days we were there. It was fun going through some of the neighborhoods that we delivered papers for in our early childhood. A lot of the houses were the same, but a lot have changed too.

And as always, all good things must come to an end. It was a short visit, but so fun! We had a lot of laughs together...as always.

Thanks for coming my way Ben!

MAKE-A-WISH CHRISTMAS PARTY 2011

2011-12-04T21:47:00.000-05:00

Today was the annual Make-A-Wish Christmas party.

There was LOTS of cheer...especially upon seeing my FAVORITE wish granters. This is Maureen. She's fantastic!

Amongst the many activities offered...THIS was my kid's favorite.

FREE massages.

(I did not partake)

Brady was the celebrity

AND he's been a really good boy. :)

This is the first year Steve has missed the party - he's been in Utah visiting family. So, we brought Kara along instead.

She's always a good time!

Every year they give away fun gifts to all of the kids. This year they had a 'roulette' wheel to spin.

The Grinch decided what gift to give out...

My kids ended up with some awesome ski gloves, bags and t-shirts.

This is Kim Brady, our other most awesome wish granter. She's who we named Brady after.

My favorite activity of the night was the photo booth...Brady was totally into it too.

He's such a HAM! :)

Brady was definitely the photo booth favorite!

We are grateful to be involved with such a wonderful and amazing organization that continues to celebrate our children. Thanks again Make-A-Wish!!!

DRESS SHOPPING

2011-12-03T22:17:00.001-05:00

I brought along my side kick for entertainment.

Here are the two lovely ladies looking for dresses, they have a semi-formal dance to attend next Saturday.

THIS lovely lady does not!

(but she wanted to come and be obnoxious anyway)

My opinion is that 99.9% of the dresses out there were hideous, too short, skin tight and strapless/sleeveless.

Stevie got bored just sitting with me and so she joined in on the fun.

THIS was creepy. It was a trailer sitting on a lawn across from the mall. Would YOU enter?

After about 4 hours of dress shopping we walked away with NO dress and a full bank account. :)

Better luck next time ladies!

BIG SISTER

2011-12-02T11:28:00.000-05:00

BROTHERS

2011-12-01T22:03:00.000-05:00

HAPPY (surprise) 50th ANNIVERSARY!

2011-11-20T22:33:00.002-05:00

When your parents reach 50 years married, a party MUST be thrown.

(kudos to Aaron and Rachael for organizing such a HUGE event)

Siblings and grandchildren came together to help pull of this once in a lifetime party.

From decorations to food preparation,

to hair beautification,

to wait staff training...

Everything went off without a hitch.

Except for the cheese tray...I think I re-arranged that darn cheese tray like 8 times.

I was most impressed by the grandchildren. They were in charge of waiting and busing tables. They did a fantastic job.

And were very cute too!

The decorators...(Jen and Rachael) did such a beautiful job.

And what would a blog post be without a self-picture of THIS daughter of mine? Funny.

After much preparation, the moment arrived. Mom and Dad thought they were giving talks at a missionary fireside. They spent weeks preparing their talks. Instead, they opened the doors to find 150 of their closest friends and family.

50 years together.

Many more to come...

I love that these two have created such a legacy...and I feel so blessed to be a part of it.

HAPPY (surprise) ANNIVERSARY TO MY TWO MOST FAVORITE PEOPLE IN THE WORLD!

YOUNG WOMEN IN EXCELLENCE

2011-11-17T22:07:00.002-05:00

Tuesday night was our "Young Women in Excellence" Night...it's comparable to a Court of Honor for the scouting program. The theme for the night was "RED CARPET". We wanted to make it like an Oscar night.

Instead of "Oscars", we presented "YWIE's"

(pronounce you-ee's)

Here are some of the decorations for that night...

Kayla strutting her 'stuff' on the red carpet!

The girls all had fun finding their 'star' on the red carpet.

After the girls talked about the projects that they have been working on through out the year, they had a special presentation for 8 women in the church that they best felt represented the 8 values in the Personal Progress Program. After they talked about that particular woman, she was called up and presented with a "YWIE" (you-ee award) and crowned.

As Young Women's President, I then awarded the girls that had completed any of the 8 values with an award - comparable to a merit badge.

Kayla received her YW Recognition award (comparable to Eagle) earlier this year and as a motivation, she was able to go on and complete what is called the "Honor Bee". I had the privilege as her mother AND YW President of presenting her the award

This group picture is of the girls with the women they awarded "YWIE's" to.

And then we enjoyed some refreshments afterwards.

There was a lot of work and planning that went in to this special night, but it was SO worth it.

STEVIE..OH STEVIE!

2011-11-16T09:23:00.001-05:00

Saturday was my first day home from my long road trip. The kids had Super Saturday down in Concord with some other youth so I sent Steve ahead and then I was going to join them later. They were scheduled to give service at nursing homes all over Concord. While waiting for kids to arrive, Stevie and some others were playing basketball when the accident happened. A boy was passing the ball in bounds as Stevie was guarding him. His wrist (after the ball was released) collided with Stevie's hand. She heard a crack and went down. Steve took her to the local ER where they confirmed the break. They wrapped her in a half cast and told us to schedule an appointment with an orthopedist.

This is one of the x-rays of Stevie's hands. If you look closely on the middle bone I have marked the top and bottom of her break - it fractured in a spiral type pattern. Very odd for that part of the hand.

So Tuesday I got her in to see the doctor. He again confirmed her break and casted the hand.

She chose blue for the color...school pride. :)

Three weeks in the cast, then she'll move to a brace for three weeks and then buddy taping her middle and ring finger.

That's if all goes well and she doesn't try to do too much too soon.

See the nice 'clean' cast? I dropped her back off at school to finish her day and she came home with it completely covered in signatures. She did happen to save me a tiny square so that I could have the honor of signing MY name...so thoughtful.

The bad news is that she'll be out half of her basketball season.

DAYS 5 AND 6

2011-11-11T10:39:00.028-05:00

Please excuse the delay in finishing (blogging about) my trip account. On day 5 we arrived at Williamsport, PA and stayed with a most amazing family that Kara knows. We left from there Friday morning and headed for home! (finally) Because we were so close to my (childhood) stomping grounds, I couldn't resist a visit to see Ben and my folks. This was the first time Brady has been to Ben's grave.

Ben's grave was completely covered in leaves, you couldn't see any of his grave marker. I'll be doing some fall clean up when I go back for Thanksgiving.

Grampy grabbed Brady from my arms the minute we arrived.
(even though he just threw up all over me and on some of his outfit)

We didn't stay long, just long enough to get a squeeze from both mom and dad, use their bathroom, and eat a freshly baked cinnamon roll on our way back out the door.

Dad...you'd think I was odiferous after 6 days on the road or something. C'MON! I showered everyday. I'm guessing it was Brady's vomit all of my shirt.

(or maybe I needed to upgrade my deodorant?)

We made a detour to Seabrook, NH to pick up Kara's car and do a couple loads of laundry so that Brady could have a break and then back in the car around 8:30pm. It took me 90 minutes from there and I FINALLY rolled into my driveway at 10pm EST. The kids greeted me so exstatically...made me feel very loved and missed. It's good to finally be home! A big thanks to Mom and Dad Orton for allowing us to inherit your beautifully taken care of truck and to Kara for being my sidekick all the way cross-country!

DAY FOUR (back on track)

2011-11-09T22:34:00.000-05:00

This morning we got a tow truck to the hotel as fast as possible...fast in Kentucky is S.L.O.W! Eddie didn't come get our truck until almost 12pm.

After he loaded the truck up, the three of us had to squish into Eddie's truck.

It was a little awkward as I was practically sitting on Eddie's lap. We got to know each other pretty well...all though I couldn't understand half the things he was saying.

Eddie drove us 26 miles to a place that Steve found online. It was one of the longest rides of my life - like longer than our Nebraska drive. (very uncomfortable in more ways than one)

We got to Tony's around 12:30pm and he told us he'd get us back on the road as soon as possible. If you're ever stuck in Lexington...bring your car to this guy. He's the BEST!

To pass the time in the waiting room, Kara played with the camera.

(this is me being TIRED of sitting for hours in a car repair shop waiting room)

Tony came out often to update us on his progress. This guy is awesome! Here he is with the old fuel pump.

I fell asleep the last hour...I was so tired.

Then we finally got the truck fixed and back on the road we went.

Two hours later we were in Proctorville, Ohio at Amy's house. It was great to see her and her family after two long days of trying to get there!

Tomorrow we are headed to Williamsport, PA.

DAY THREE...(didn't go as planned)

2011-11-08T22:19:00.000-05:00

We left Platte City, MO early this morning for our 700+ mile drive to Ohio. The weather was great and the roads were mostly clear of traffic.

I shared some of my breakfast with Brady Boo...he liked it. :) THEN life got exciting. We got to witness a live police chase on Interstate 70 in Missouri. There were seriously like 40 police cars chasing an older red jeep down the highway nearing speeds of 100 mph. We pulled over to let the mayhem pass.

I didn't think to pull out my camera until most of the police cars had gone by...

We knew the guy must have been caught because the traffic was at a stop.

And then we spotted a helicopter above...

I could see with the camera from WAY back that they had the car in custody. Very exciting stuff.

This guy burned some serious rubber...and then his car hit some tire spikes that the police layed out. (story below)

Here's a close up of the tire as we drove by.

This picture I got off the internet...and the rest of the story is below the picture.

ST. CHARLES COUNTY • Police chased a stolen vehicle from Troy, Mo., to St. Peters this morning. No one was injured, and a 25-year-old St. Louis man was arrested, said Troy Police Chief Jeff Taylor. Taylor said a Jeep Cherokee was reported stolen in Marion County. About 9:40 a.m., a Troy police sergeant on traffic duty saw the vehicle on Highway 61 and pursued it, he said.

Speeds neared 100 mph until the Jeep's driver reached eastbound Interstate 70 in St. Charles County, Taylor said. He said police placed spike strips on the highway to flatten the vehicles tires, and it stopped between the Highway 370 and Cave Springs Boulevard exits.

The driver's name has not been released because he has not been charged yet.

After all the excitement, we continued on our journey, and saw some pretty cool sights along the way.

(beautiful sunset over the water)

After we crossed the bridge, that's when trouble happened. We spent an hour figuring out a detor off Interstate 64 and when we finally were back on track (about 160 miles from Amy's house), the truck broke down. We spent over an hour on the side of the interstate, in the middle of nowhere, waiting for Triple A to find us. Then he followed us to the gas station where we ended up pushing the truck to the pump (always good for a laugh), and then barely making it to a Holiday Inn to spend the night instead of with Amy. Hopefully we'll figure this out tomorrow and be back on the road soon. I'm grateful that we are safe and sound for now.

FROM WYOMING TO MISSOURI

2011-11-07T22:05:00.003-05:00

We were back in the truck early this morning for another long day of driving. Most of the day was spent in Nebraska with not much to see except for a bunch of road kill and empty corn fields. We passed the town of "Brady, NE" so I took a picture as we drove by.

Not much to do to entertain a 2 month old, so instead I find myself entertaining me instead. (at Brady's expense) :)

We stopped half way through the day to let Brady out of the car and to eat some lunch.

Kara (who is doing all of the driving, bless her!) loves to get her hands on Brady any chance she can.

And then back in the car for more entertainment. There's only so much he can take of the vibrating elephant.

So then we play singing games...

And yawn a LOT...

Eat fun snacks...

And many times Brady would give me the "Are we seriously STILL in this truck, mom?!?" look.

And then I would lotion his face...

And then more faces.

We arrived in Platte City, MO around 7pm tonight. I'm grateful for safe travels as we have experienced extreme weather today...a snow storm this morning and thunder/lightning/rain storm tonight. Off to Ohio tomorrow!

ON THE ROAD...

2011-11-06T22:20:00.002-05:00

We made it to Cheyenne, Wyoming tonight. Only traveled about 6 hours today. Brady was a trooper, slept most of the day and rode peacefully the rest. He did throw up around 6pm tonight all over himself and his carseat. Not fun to clean up when you're on the road. Thank goodness for lots of wipes and spare clothes.

DAY 5...OREM, UT

2011-11-06T01:14:00.000-05:00

After saying goodbye to my special friends in Spanish Fork, I headed to Orem to spend the day with my brother and his family.

Zach is very entertaining when he reads to his children...so much so that he kept the attention of 2 month old Brady for quite awhile. Gabe loved visiting with his newest cousin and kept asking me if Brady was a 'he' or a 'she'...and gave up trying to remember and referred to him as 'it'. FUNNY!

Later that evening we had Tanner and Naomi (BYU students and family) over for dinner and birthday celebrations. Tanner turns 19 years next week.

Mac's birthday is tomorrow. This boy could not GET any cuter.

Ben and Joy joined us after dinner for the "Totally Insane Card Game"...and some more bonding time with Brady.

This game is INSANE...but so fun!

Guess who won? Not the Professor...but his older sister. :)

We ended the night with a few rounds of "Ninja"...probably not an inside game and probably should not be played when young'ns are sleeping. The professor and his looooooong arms wiped everyone out.

And then I had to say goodbye...always the hardest part. It never seems long enough.

But I'm so grateful for the time that we had. Thanks to all the families that hosted Brady and I!

DAY 4...SPANISH FORK, UT

2011-11-05T07:19:00.000-04:00

My trip would not have been complete without seeing some of my special friends. It was a tender time, holding Caleb and Hunter (below) in my arms again.

And Brady got to flirt with my dear friend April.

He's becoming quite the ladies man. :)

I love these boys!

Emily arrived a little bit later and joined our party. I can't express how much I love these gals.

We had a great afternoon/evening of visiting and catching up.

I got to squeeze in some cuddles with sweet Hunter.

And so did Brady. :)

And then Brady snuggled with Caleb.

(cute boys...)

After visiting for the day...we went out to dinner.

It was too short of a visit, but wonderful!

I LOVE you ladies! See you next year!

DAY 3....LINDON, UT

2011-11-04T09:56:00.000-04:00

Today I got to go see my youngest brother teach one of his english classes at BYU. I was very entertained...in more ways than one. I recommend stopping in to attend his class if you're ever in the area. I had NO idea what book they were discussing, but the lecture and class discussion was very amusing. AND the energy and enthusiasm he emits was very contagious.

Those students (and BYU) are lucky to have him!

We kidnapped him after his class for some sibling bonding time at Cafe Rio.

That night Tina joined our party back at Ben's house. I think she was more happy to see Brady than me, can't say I blame her though.

Because I only had a day with my twin and his family, we spent most of it at home visiting. I love this family and wish we had more time together.

Brady didn't lack for attention or kisses.

And this guy? I just love him to pieces.

DAY 2...IN LOGAN

2011-11-03T12:15:00.001-04:00

We had SO much fun visiting with Grandpa, Grandma, Aunt Suzanne and some cousins (Maddy and Josh) on our visit to Logan, UT. It was short, but very sweet. Thanks for allowing us to soak in your love for the day.

BRADY'S FIRST PLANE TRIP

2011-11-02T18:19:00.000-04:00

And he did GREAT!

We arrived in Utah LATE and our first stop?

"IN and OUT Burger"

It was my first experience at this burger joint and it did NOT dissapoint.

Our second stop?

(and Brady's first)

GRANDPA and GRANDMA'S house!

Brady greeted them with OPEN ARMS!

It's GREAT to be here.

(EARLY) 15TH BIRTHDAY

2011-10-31T23:20:00.000-04:00

I'll be gone for Kaleb's 'real' birthday on Thursday so we partied tonight!

I made his favorite "Angel Food Cake" with strawberries and whipped cream.

But before the strawberries and whipped cream comes the traditional "Hutchins' Bite".

Kaleb takes it to a whole new level! Do you think it deters his sister's from eating his cake? Not so much.

Happy Birthday Bubby!!!

LIFE IS GOOD

2011-10-30T18:52:00.000-04:00

The other day I brought Stevie into school late. When I called the school to let them know of her tardiness, they BEGGED for me to bring the baby in...one of the secretaries hadn't met him yet. So I packed Brady up and brought him in. We stood in the office for about 20 minutes while the office staff and others admired him. I told his story (for the umpteenth time) again to those that didn't know and when I was done, one of the office ladies looks at me and says, "FINALLY...something GOOD has happened in your life." I was sort of taken aback by her comment. It took me a minute to process what she was trying to convey. I think I understood why she probably said what she said, but in reality it didn't make sense because to me, my life has had SO much good in it. Ben was a HUGE part of that 'good' that I'm speaking of. We were so blessed for his 8 years of life in so many ways, so much so that I wouldn't even know where to begin to explain just how blessed!

LIFE.IS.GREAT!

FIELD HOCKEY SEASON OVER!

2011-10-29T22:21:00.001-04:00

Kayla's team made it to the tournament for the first time in YEARS. This team of all sophmores and some freshman gave all the more experienced teams a run for their money. They lost in the first round 5-2 but were the only lower seed team to even score against a higher seed team and they played the best I've seen this year. I expect they'll be the ones to beat in their last two years of high school. Kayla is number 24...this picture below was of her and some teammates coming off the field after warming up.

The night of their game was the FIRST night in a few weeks where it was actually pleasant. The starting 11 were announced and ran to the middle of the field where they dropped their sticks in front of them.

I expected cold weather and dressed Brady extra warm. He definitely was toasty

The team in their huddle before taking the field.

The girls in the goal as they prepare for a 'corner' the other team is taking.

Kayla plays 'sweeper', it's the position right in front of the goal. She's a force on the field and is a great leader. The coach has dubbed her the 'quarterback' of the team.

That's Kayla in the goal preventing the other team from scoring.

I've been watching this sport for two years and I still have no clue about the rules, but I have really enjoyed watching it and can't wait for next year.

The girls ended their season at 6-8-2

(last year as freshman they were 2-12)

Well done Ladies!

TEAM FEED

2011-10-26T21:47:00.000-04:00

Tonight I hosted 18 soccer boys in our little home for dinner.

I know...CRAZY!

They were actually well behaved.

Take a look at these pictures.

Do you see a common theme?

They all have BLOND/WHITE hair.

Every year the Gilford Boys Varsity soccer team makes it into the tournament (they are undefeated right now) and every year they dye their hair blond/golden to represent their school mascot - the "Golden Eagles". I personally think they look hideous, but it's a long time tradition.

My favorite quote of the day?
"It smells AMAZING in here!"

(and look...they all took their wet shoes off at the door)

STEVIE'S SOCCER TOURNAMENT

2011-10-22T21:53:00.000-04:00

LUNCH WITH JENNY

2011-10-21T14:46:00.000-04:00

Today I made a quick jaunt down south to have lunch with Jenny and do some shopping.

I got my sister fix, and SHE got her baby fix.

(he was telling her all kinds of stories)

As a bonus, her husband had just finished his half day of work and joined us!

The food was delish but the company was WAY better!

I love you Jenny!

BRADY'S MANY FACES

2011-10-17T09:09:00.001-04:00

And I LOVE them all.

SHE BRINGS GREAT LAUGHTER

2011-10-16T16:43:00.002-04:00

How I love her so.

BIRTHDAY LUNCH!

2011-10-14T22:36:00.001-04:00

My mom and dad came up to visit me in honor of my birthday. We had lunch together and played some competitive scrabble. There may or may not have been attempted cheating by my father. (gasp!) We both walked away with a win and loss and called it a night. My mom brought up a beautiful quilt that she made for Brady and Dad had some serious conversations with his newest grandson.

Thanks for the visit! Come again soon. xoxo

ALL I WANT FOR MY BIRTHDAY...

2011-10-13T10:10:00.000-04:00

Is HAPPY children.

I remember as a child asking my mom what she wanted for her birthday and EVERY year she would say..."All I want is happy children". I used to think that was LAME. Now I get it. Whenever MY children ask me what I want, "Happy Children" is my response.

And you know what?!? My birthday wish comes true every year.

KAYLA'S FIELD HOCKEY TEAM

2011-10-11T11:45:00.000-04:00

I LOVE this game. I don't understand it, but I LOVE it. I've loved watching these girls for the past two years. Last year Kayla was one of 10 freshman that started on the Varsity team. This year the same 10 are now sophmores and they've improved their (last year) record from 2-12 to 5-7 so far. These girls are not only cute, but are great athletes and great kids on and off the field. That's why I love this game. I love watching THEM play with grace and determination.

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY WEEK

2011-10-10T21:38:00.001-04:00

And all I wanted to do was go skiing one last time this year. It was BEAUTIFUL today. 83 degrees and SUNNY at Lake Sunapee. The water temperature has dropped into the low 60's so Kara let me borrow her wet suit from the early 1980's. :) I rocked the neon colors...and if I'm not mistaken, they're back in style.

My birthday is complete.

Happy (almost) 38 years to me!

I NEEDED THIS TODAY...

2011-10-08T18:05:00.000-04:00

Thanks Brady, for giving me BIG smiles today when my heart has been so sad.

Another tender mercy.

BABY SHOWER FOR BRADY

2011-09-18T16:54:00.000-04:00

HAPPY BABY TO US!

Thank you for your love and kindness.

SHARING IS CARING

2011-09-15T09:49:00.000-04:00

Even if it's your brother's dinner that he's sharing...ALL.OVER.YOU.

And she's STILL smiling.

BRADY BOO

2011-09-02T18:42:00.000-04:00

WELCOME BRADY

2011-08-31T09:54:00.001-04:00

Born 8/23/11

9lbs. 4oz

20 inches long

SKIING LAKE SUNAPEE

2011-08-18T03:32:00.003-04:00

Can't get enough!
Today I got up on ONE ski. I've been dropping a ski for about a month but had never started on one so it was a big day for me. Stevie? She had fun playing around on two as she is very comfortable now. I enjoyed watching her show off to all the people on the lake. AND...as of last night (after a 7 hour course and 60 question exam) I have my boating license. It was a great day!

(we can never thank you enough Kara!!!)

KALEB'S TURN ON SKIS

2011-08-12T13:22:00.001-04:00

The girls were gone this past week and so it gave me the opportunity to spend some one on one with Kaleb. We went SKIING! It was his first time and after many tries, he DID IT! It was so great seeing the look of JOY when he got up and STAYED up!

He was SO excited that he was waving at the camera. LOVE IT!

He was up for awhile before drifting outside the wake...

And down he went.

The wipe outs are my favorite to watch...so funny.

He was fine, I promise!

Kaleb's VICTORY pose!

(showing us how it's done...)

Kara took him for a WILD SPIN after he was done skiing. She told him there are "Handles" on the boat for a reason. Kaleb felt he was 'too cool' to hold on....

...until he almost fell out of the boat.

That got his heart pumping and he changed his mind about the handles.

And then held on to anything he could at that point.

It was FUNNY!

But he learned his lesson!!!

And he walked away one happy boy!

Thanks again and again Kara for sharing your lake with us!

LAKE WINNI FUN!

2011-08-07T08:06:00.000-04:00

HIKING MT. MAJOR WITH KELLEY

2011-08-06T05:51:00.000-04:00

BOAT HOUSE JUMPING

2011-08-05T05:06:00.000-04:00

I took Kayla with me to visit Kara the other day and THIS is what we spent the day doing. (her boat is being fixed right now, so water skiing is on hold) No worries though, she always has something fun for us to do.

LOCKER ROOM SHOWERS

2011-08-04T03:17:00.001-04:00

Here's the thing...I have no oil.

We ran out a few weeks ago and I'm not filling the tank until school starts.

At least that's what I told the kids.
It's SUMMER!

Cold showers all around.

And then I TOOK one of those showers.

It was ARCTIC!

(like take your breath away cold)

So we boil water for baths or jump in the lake.

And then company arrived.

My husband loves that I am subjecting them to his misery.

He offered Kelley and her kids an upgrade.

Locker Room showers at the High School.

Guess what? The water was not even luke warm.

They STILL didn't get hot showers.
But they were great sports.

Anyone ELSE want to come visit?

We'll treat YOU to the locker room showers.

Yes, we know how to have a good time.

2011-08-04T03:09:00.001-04:00

KAYLA'S NIGHT

2011-08-03T11:49:00.000-04:00

Kayla received her Young Women Personal Progress Recognition award back in January and we finally held a special night JUST.FOR.HER to let her know how proud of her we are.

We LOVE you Kayla!!!

DON'T CRY OVER SPILLED MILK...

2011-08-02T20:15:00.001-04:00

Or DROPPED cake.
That's the lesson I have been trying to teach to Kaleb for 14 years.

Sometimes he gets frustrated over the little things.

"Guess what?"

(I say to him)

"LIFE IS SHORT!"

A few nights ago a friend gave us this cake.

Kaleb wanted some before heading to bed, with milk of course.

"SURE!" I told him.

He was carrying the cake over to the counter...

when it slipped off the plate and hit the floor.

He fell to the ground, angry and frustrated at himself.

I looked at him and started LAUGHING!

"IT'S FUNNY" I tell him.

"Now get down on the floor and
EAT YOUR CAKE!"

At first he thought I was crazy...but soon realized WHY NOT?

And so he did...with a HUGE smile.

BEACH DAY!!!

2011-07-28T21:22:00.002-04:00

Every summer MUST include a trip to the beach at least once. And yesterday was that day. Can you FEEL the excitement as we were departing?

We had the beach almost all to ourselves!

(again we were excited)

The water was COLD...no, more like LIMB NUMBING! But we braved it anyway and enjoyed some time riding the waves that got bigger as the day went on.

No matter where I am or what I'm doing, my thoughts are always with him.

My girls...they complete me.

We took a break from the LIMB NUMBING water and had a sand castle building contest.

And then collected some treasures from the beach.

There was too much fun to be had so the sand castles never got finished...

But they had fun while it lasted.

This child makes me LAUGH!

In my kids words..."This was the BEST.DAY.EVER!"

(It seems I've been hearing this on a daily basis. I must be doing something right)

JSM SUNDAY PICNIC

2011-07-27T21:19:00.000-04:00

Ever since YW Camp finished, I had promised the girls I would reunite them with some of their friends who live far away. Last Sunday I fulfilled that promise. We had a beautiful day for a picnic at one of my most favorite places. The girls had a great time and we got some fantastic pictures to remember this day by.

(the LONG ride home)

THE HUTCHINS' AND OUR WATER HOLE

2011-07-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

BEACH DAY WITH THE WHITCOMB FAMILY

2011-07-21T09:32:00.000-04:00

SCOUT CAMP

2011-07-20T11:50:00.000-04:00

A few weeks back we sent Kaleb to scout camp.

I asked him what his favorite thing about camp was...

his response?

THE FOOD!

(seriously?)

(it's all about the food, remember?)

(Kaleb spent his dinner time bargaining for food, he did his table mates kitchen duties for their food)

(the ride home)

I LOVE MY GIRLS...

2011-07-18T22:10:00.000-04:00

THE CHILLY COW

2011-07-16T22:35:00.001-04:00

We spent some time with Zach and his family tonight...they're always a good time.

Good times made even better with ice cream.

We found this hole in the wall place called "The Chilly Cow". They serve up some pretty great ice cream.

My kids babysat Zach's kids so that we could go to the temple together.

They don't see us much, but became attached quickly.

Cute boys!

And by boys...I mean ALL of them. :)

Thanks for a great date night Zach and Alana!

A DATE WITH THE LAKE

2011-07-15T23:14:00.000-04:00

Stevie and I had some alone time on the lake today. It was PERFECT! She has never been water skiing and it just so happens that I have a friend with connections. We hooked up with her today. She took a few tries before she got the hang of it, but was skiing 4 miles at a stretch by the end of the day. She's a pro!

This was her first attempt on skis. She actually got out of the water, but fell rather quickly.

This picture was taken at the end of the day...she never fell.

During the day we took a break and got to ride on the MV Mt. Sunapee II with Kara for an hour and a half...she's the captain of the boat. She even let Stevie have a turn driving.

She was having a blast!

When she wasn't driving, she was sitting in my lap.

Or snoozing. Playing on the lake is HARD WORK!

After the cruise, we waited for Captain Kara to take us back out on her boat. This time Stevie got to tube.

And then we skied some more.

I haven't been since I was 12yrs. old and it didn't end well so I was a little nervous getting back out there.

It only took me a couple times to finally get the hang of it.

Kind of like riding a bike, right?

This time around it was a happy ending...

No traumatic falls.

I'm officially hooked...so is Stevie.

And I'm becoming one with water.

(yes...I just said that, mom!)

It was a PERFECT day with my daughter!

(and my older two feel extremely cheated...guess we'll have to go again, and again and again...)

FULL DAY...

2011-07-11T22:15:00.001-04:00

Of surgery, beaches and basketball.

Kayla was up at the crack of dawn with her dad to have surgery on her right eye. She has a drifting eye so they tightened the muscle to help her control it better. This is the second time in 8 years.

This is a few hours after surgery. I suspect it'll be worse tomorrow...

While Kayla was recovering on the couch, the rest of us headed to Lake Waukewan for a swim and some kayaking.

WAIT! Did I mention Amy and her family are in town? Tanner and I wanted to make it to the other side of the BIG lake, but we ran out of time and had to head back.

I could have stayed out there ALL day...it was so peaceful and quiet.

We left Waukewan and headed to Winnipesaukee for some more fun. This time meeting up with a couple other families for some dinner.

(it's a hard life...I know)

Kayla was feeling well enough to sit on the beach...no swimming for 10 days.

She was happy to hang with the princess.

I love having my older twin around. Sadly, her stay is much shorter this year.

From the beach we headed to Stevie's basketball game. Her cousins had the pleasure of seeing her tear it up on the court.

With 33.1 seconds left in the game she hit a 3 to lift her team up by two. With 6.5 seconds left she was fouled and hit both free throws to lift her team to a four point win. She dropped in 15 for the game.

The only other thing that would have made this day perfect was some ice cream...but hey, you can't have it all.