The Cains Adventures

2012-01-29T06:10:00.000-08:00

Timeline of craziness.

February:

-Dave will be gone. Not cool.

-14th: Valentines Day. Also the day I get my boob checked out again. Hoping for the best.

-Match list due. Dave and I will have to decide what path we would like to take for the next 4 years of life. It's kind of a big deal.

March:

-Dave will be gone. Not cool.

-16th is Match Day. I think we find out if we matched on the 12th and then we find out where we are going on the 16th. This is craziness. Our fate is in the hands of a computer generated formula.

-16th (10 minutes after the match)- find a realtor. We need to find a house and get going on the move before we have a baby in a few weeks and get kicked out of our apartment on May 31st.

April:

-Baby Newbie is due! I think I'm going to like her/him.

-Recover.

May:

-Pack.

-Move.

-Unpack.

-Recover.

June:

-3rd is Graduation Day! Dave becomes a doctor!! That's Sir. Dr. Cain to you.

-7th is a super sneaky special trip that the kids don't know about. Shhhhh- don't tell them! I'll give you a hint- it rhymes with Schmisney World! I am so excited I want to cry.

-15th Enjoy a couple of weeks of painting/fixing/redoing parts of the house.

July:

-Dave starts residency! And then the real craziness begins.

___________________________________________
All of this is like Christmas Eve for me. Wish us luck. Love you.

Pregnanting

2012-01-27T05:43:00.000-08:00

So, I'm in my last-mester of pregnancy. And I'm about to be really real up in this blog so, if you don't want to hear about the truths of pregnancy- just click away.

Swiss Army Knife. I'm pretty sure this little person has somehow fashioned a Swiss Army Knife out of amniotic fluid and is using it to dig its way through my right lowest rib. Remember that "Rescue Me" scene in Paul Shore's epic In the Army Now. (Don't pretend like you haven't seen it.) Yep, it's just like that. Also, occasionally the babe uses it to shove into one of my ovaries just to remind me that we are done having kids. Take that tiny eggs!

Ug sauce. I am feeling so incredibly ugly. I swear in the last 6 months I have aged 15 years. I used to be able to get away with chap stick and bronzer. Now if I don't get ready in the morning I look like this: click here. Not cool.

Neepers. When Dave and I first got married we had a dog named Barkley. He was a pug. He was unmanageable and he snorted and he was wall eyed. I loved him. I have some new pets that are just as free spirited and they are my sitting atop my belly. They are my boobs. And they are everywhere.

Peek-a-boo. I'm big and getting bigger. I recently got to the point where I can't see past my belly. As far as I know, my body goes- head, boobs, top of belly, toes. And that's all. I am not comfortable with not knowing how everything is holding up on the parts I can't see...

Pee-a-boo. ...Infact, if I didn't have to pee every hour I may have forgotten that I still have specials down there. My favorite is when I pee, wash my hands, the baby moves, and I am back on the toilet. And when I say my favorite- I mean the opposite of that. Speaking of which, if you'll excuse me for a sec...

Serious Condition. I am not lying in the least little bit when I say that I am pretty sure my baby has seizures. This kid is already practicing his krumping, no doubt, but at least 3 times a day it also shakes and spazzes uncontrollably like it's had too much coffee. It makes me nervous.

Harold and the Purple Crayon. When we got it's 1/2 way ultrasound and saw it's profile- he looked exactly like this. I truly believe the ultrasounds are telling. Miles did something hilarious during his and he is honestly the funniest kid I know. Faye's picture looked exactly like my sister, Celeste, and she still does. Newbie's profile screams Harold. And I can't wait.

My heart on my sleeve. I would like to think I would be a pretty good actress if given the opportunity, but I might be wrong. Lately people have been saying things like, "Are you okay?" "You seem a little down," and "Everything alright?" I have been a little sick lately, but I didn't know that I was also depressed until people kept telling me. So, someone tell me how happy I am. Right now and I mean it!

Professor Actual Factual. The truth is, as much as I love complaining about the woes of pregnancy- I am actually really excited to have this baby. And so are my kids.

Faye says: If it's a girl I am going to name it Tiger. And if it's a boy I'm going to name it Tiger.

Miles will leave little pictures of hearts or submarines for me and the baby all over the house. Sometimes the baby will get a special hug and kiss from one of the kids and every once in a while I can get Dave to feel the baby during one of it's dance sessions.

Dave says: Yep. There's a baby in there.

I can't wait to meet her. I can't wait to hold him in my arms. I can't wait to see her little tiny hand wrap around one of my fingers. I can't wait to watch him stretch his little arms out and not be able to reach the top of his head. I can't wait to see how Faye will love on him and how Miles will protect her. I can't wait to watch Dave look at her with love in his eyes.

I can't wait to meet you, little one. Come soon, but not too soon- keep working on those ribs until D-day.

Love you.

-Cicely

Good morning.

2011-12-28T05:13:00.001-08:00

Dear Blog-

I just sort of miss you. That's all.

What's happened:

-I am almost in my third trimester and I am feeling Large Marge-ish, but I don't ever remember feeling this non-sick with my other two. Ps. This is our last baby. It seems that with each child my sickness gets more and more concentrated to the first trimester and if I had another I would probably just die at about 14 weeks.

-Miles is awesome. He is seriously the smartest kid I know. Sometimes it worries me. His teacher in pre-school said this about him, "Miles is just a little man. A little silly man."

-Faye is incredibly adorable. She is super smart too. She just turned three and can count to 30, knows about 10 Christmas songs, looks like Little Cindy Lou Who, and is sort of nasally when she talks. I like it.

My kids are growing up. Coming this Sunday- they will both be in primary. It makes me want to cry.

This baby is due in April and I am planning to cut her/him/it out of my belly. That means I will have had 1 induced baby, 1 natural baby, and 1 C-sectioned baby. I feel like I should write a book. The babe is super active and prefers to spend it's time on the right side of my body. I think it wants to snuggle me.

-I found a lump in my boob in October (National Breast Cancer Awareness Month) and although the tumor doesn't look cancerous- they don't know what it is and would like to take it out. Only, I'm pregnant. So... We are waiting until probably 1 year post baby before we cut into it. Fingers crossed, eh?

-Dave becomes a doctor in about 5 months. I can't believe it. Have I told you how much I love him? Cause I seriously do. I will follow him anywhere- even to Lubbock, Texas if necessary. Residency starts this summer and we have a few options... I'm hoping for Cleveland myself, but Iowa and Columbus are high on my list as well. But as I said, I would do anything for love. -Meatloaf.

-Christmas week was awesome. Our anniversary was the 20th, Faye's birthday was the 22nd, Christmas was spent opening presesents and playing all day, then the 26th was spent cleaning the house (another Christmas present) to host my parents and Celeste's entrance to Cleveland. We still have some of Faye's birthday presents to open and the house seems literally filled with toys. It's wonderful.

-The fish died this week. All of them. I'm trying to figure out if this is a Christmas Miracle or if it is a Christmas disaster, but the kids dont' seem to mind. So... I'm good.

-I love our friends, schools, and ward here. I am grateful everyday for all that we have. And I'm grateful for you Blog, even though I neglect you.

-All in all, I love what is happening here in the Cain home.

Loves.
-Cicely

Prego Log baby #3

2011-08-20T10:39:00.000-07:00

Week 4: I'm pregnant! And I haven't told anyone. Including Dave. He is out of town and I was hoping to surprise him with a big banner or something, but I'm not super good at keeping secrets...
It took 6 months, but those 6 months really helped me prepare myself for pregnancy and make sure that we were doing the right thing. I'm due April 10th! I'm so excited!!!!

Week 5: I'm pregnant! And I feel so good! Maybe this time I won't be sick!!!! It will be a med school miracle! Especially since we aren't telling anyone until we get to Utah in Sept.

Week 6: I'm pregnant! And feeling it. Today was my first encounter with the toilet- I had been holding back the puke all day and then I finally did to relieve myself and... it didn't work. I still feel like my insides want to be my outsides. My poor kids have literally been watching TV all day.
Oh, man. Lets hope I don't have to have IVs this time. I want my Mommy. I'm sooooo grateful for my Shaker friends. I would be lost without them.

Week 7: I'm pregnant and I want to die. Was it this bad the last two times? I'm adopting my fourth. No joke. I just started puking and I have an honest fear of food. I'm worried that the combo of those two things means IVs in the near future. Dave just left for a month long rotation in Erie. I'll see him on the weekends- which means I will be crying every weekday. Oh, and I woke Miles up by puking last night. Awesome.

Week 8: I'm pregnant with a baby! I saw him today. He is strong and healthy and alone in there. I was sort of hoping he would have a friend to play with, but it looks like it's just me and him. I'm not sure it's a boy, of course, but I'm pretty sure it's a boy. or a girl. Seeing him for the first time and watching his little heart flutter gave me hope and a better perspective about having this little person in me. I'm going to be sick- that is for sure, but I'm also going to be happy to share my life with another little person for the rest of my life. Can't wait to meet you!

Week 9: IV fluids. Why do I suck so bad at being pregnant?

Week 10: Improving on the puke scale, but still not feeling great. I miss the crap out of Dave and my Mom.

Week 11: This week we are going to Utah and get to announce to the families! I CAN NOT WAIT! Too bad Mama Suite is out of town until Sunday night. She and my Dad will undoubtably be the last to know. I can't believe I actually kept this kind of a secret from them. Utah here we come!

Week 12: Utah brings celebration and help. Did I mention how much I missed my mom? I heart family. And naps. And baby #3. We just decided we aren't going to find out what the sex is. Super excited!

Love you.

100 Things to Do in Cleveland and Beyond: Activity 27

2011-08-12T05:35:00.000-07:00

Acticity 27: Rainbow Babies- University Hospital System

Poor little Faye had to have a minor surgery and we are so blessed to live in a place with one of the top children's medical centers in the nation. I heart Rainbow Babies. I was sooooo nervous and they were so kind and loving and helpful and they made Faye, Dave and I all feel a little more comfortable about the whole process.

So, this Cleveland activity is one that I pray you don't have to venture to, but if you do- I hope you feel good about taking your baby there. I did.

Faye checks out her new threads.

Look at the smile on that nurse! So awesome!

This was post surgery. It scared me to death to see her like this.

Just waking up.

It was like she didn't even know it happened.

Thanks Rainbow team!
Love, the Cains.

100 Things to Do in Cleveland and Beyond: Activity 26

2011-07-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

Hi there! Long time no see.

I'm back with new business- it's 2011 in real life and on the Cain Train blog and it came just in time. I need a little winter fix with the way the heat wave has been waving it's heat in my face.

Activity 26: Ice skating Lessons.

If you haven't heard it snows it here. A lot. And what better why to enjoy the winter than to get involved in hockey! Well, not so much hockey, yet, considering the skill levels of my 2 and 4 year olds, but maybe someday.

Miles says*: "Look mom, I'm an Artic Lobster."

*I'm not actually sure if he said that or not.

Miles can do it by himself! Watch how excited he gets telling me about it. And, no, there is no sound on the video. My camera is that cool.

And then, Miles was lucky enough to have Daddy join us and show off the skill she learned in at Classic Skating when he was twelve...

I really want you to see this- it is how most of the lesson went. I love it.

Are you asking for a challenge?!

2011-07-06T16:32:00.001-07:00

If you don't know what I'm talking about, click here.

Miles loves to "battle." I'm not into it. Apparently Dave is- and I'm okay with that.
Just look at how much fun my kids are having:

Utah Winter Games 2010.

2011-06-10T06:28:00.000-07:00

These are memories of our LAST trip to Utah- 6 months ago**. yikes.

Luge World Cup (or something like it) in Park City

My Dad has some connection to the World Luging Committee so sometimes we get to go up to Park City and watch the Lugers. It's pretty amazing- and the kids thought it was awesome.

This is a video of Faye playing with her cousin, Tatum, and Miles and Max, another cousin, eating white snow.

Sledding at Falcon Park with (cousins) The Simths

Miles has his game face on.

Miles would only go up the hill if Dave pulled him up.

Watch this- Dave and Miles have a pretty amazing spill. Miles loves to watch it now- didn't love it so much then.

We did so many other things, including some things I don't like to remember, but for some reason- every time I go to Salt Lake- I lose my camera until the day we leave. It is not going to happen this time... unless, of course, it does.

-See you tomorrow. Maybe tomorrow it will be spring on my blog. wink.

** My goal this trip is to get to caught up on my blogging.

Faye's Birthday!!!

2011-05-26T16:49:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun time at Faye's 2nd birthday party. Of course, it was in December of 2010, but still... it was pretty amazing.

We had a baking themed birthday for Faye. First we had the kids decorate their own little cakes.

Then they each made their own little pizzas and put them in the oven.

I think Faye did a pretty freaking awesome job on her pizza.

Here is Dave handing me an invisible tray.

Then it was cupcake-inata* time.

It must have been dance party time. That is one of Faye's awesome shoulder dance moves.

Present time!!!

Hugs for Andersen!

And then- Faye's dreams came true...

I think it was pretty successful. Thanks to all of Faye's special little friends!

See you in 6 months!

*My niece and nephew at Cinco De Mayo.

Sick. In almost every sense of the word.

2011-05-23T06:03:00.000-07:00

I'm sick.

And Faye is too.

And so is this post- so don't read it if you don't want to hear about puke.

I think it is going around, but most of the cases last <24 hrs. And I am on day three.

Faye has had a fever since Sunday afternoon (Sorry nursery. I had no idea.) and has been Les Miserables ever since. Last night, just as Dave and I made the switch of sleeping with her in our bed- she started moaning and crying and then BLAM --spoiler alert-- she puked spoiled chocolate milk all over the bed. As I picked her up to rush her to the bathroom, she puked again.

There was a continuous line of pukies from the wrong side of the bed, to the hamper, to the big puddle (where I stopped at one point because I was frantic) to the bathroom- which, incidentally, was the only place she didn't throw up, but did manage to get pieces of it on the floor, toilet, wall, bath tub and towels. Super awesome.

Why am I telling you this? Because I wanted to tell you how amazing the clean-up crew was.

Dave is always on puke clean-up duty. I always take the kids in the shower and lay there with them until he finishes the clean-up. Everytime. I couldn't do it. I don't love puke. Not that he does, but he cleans it up with much less anxiety than I do.

Even his hints of Puke Pile-izations are pretty subtle:

"Hey. Next time, maybe you could just stay in one spot rather than have (and this he did as if Rambo was firing heavy artillery) Faye spray puke all over the room.

So, long gross story short: I love you, Janitor Dave.

ps. Faye is still sick with a fever and severely angry, but -thank goodness- asleep currently. Poor kid.

He's gone.

2011-05-19T06:37:00.001-07:00

This is the first of many months without Dave this year.

Last week was sunny and lovely and outsidey and busy. I did okay. I missed him after the kids went to bed, but the week went by pretty quick.

This week is rainy and wet and boring. I'm not doing well. This 4 days has felt more like 4 weeks for realsies. And he is on call this weekend which means he will most likely not be coming home then.

Did I mention he left his phone here?

An email a day is not sufficient in my book.

Luckilly, my dear friend ReAnn is having a baby today(!!!) and I get to watch her kids which means that maybe my kids (and I) won't be so bored.

ps. I know I'm not an army wife and I shouldn't be complaining, but I am probably not going to stop any time soon.

Love you, Dave.
-Cicely

100 Things to Do in Cleveland and Beyond: Activity 25

2011-05-18T17:08:00.000-07:00

Activity 25: Country Lights at Lake Metroparks Farmpark

Ok. This is seriously one of my favorite things we have done since we moved here. Lake Farm Park transforms into Santa's Workshop and the kids LOVED it. Here, let me show you.

Here we are waiting to enter Santa's Workshop. Often Faye gets compared to Little Cindy Lou Who. So it was really exciting to see the two of them together. At least it was exciting for me- not so much Faye.

Once inside, the kids got to pick out the toy they wanted to make in the workshop. Miles picked a jet plane and Faye picked a rocking horse. They got to sand, hammer and glue their projects. It was so fun for them.

And right in the middle of working on the toys- Miles' elf excused herself, put on a microphone, climbed some scaffolding and lead everyone in the shop in a funky fresh dance. Watching Miles' confused, but enjoyable dancing in this video is worth your time.

Then it was time to paint. Both of the kids went to work. They felt so good about their toys after they built and painted them all by themselves. We were pretty proud of them too.

Once the toys were completed, we got to take a horse drawn sleigh(ish) to see millions of twinkling lights in all shapes and colors. So fun. I couldn't waste my time taking pictures, so i just captured Miles as we were going through a rainbow tunnel.

And last (and probably least) we met Santa. Faye wasn't into it. I'm amazed that Miles sat next to him. Santas that aren't cartoons creep me out. But, alas, here we are.

I had to put this in. Even with all the other amazing things we did- this was truly one of the highlights of the evening for Dave and I.

Loves for Christmas in May.
-Cicely

100 Things to Do in Cleveland and Beyond: Activity 24

2011-05-17T17:14:00.000-07:00

Activity 24: Enjoying the snow.

This romp in the snow happened to be nearing the wee hours of the early evening so you can see the progression of the night's sky upon us.

What did I just say?

Notice on this video how Miles body checks Faye and she doesn't seem to care.

I love when Faye crosses her little tiny legs in this one.

Faye's little snowballs are the best.

Classic Miles at the end of this.

100 Things to Do in Cleveland and Beyond: Activity 23

2011-05-17T06:04:00.000-07:00

Activity 23: Children's Museum of Cleveland

We recently got a membership to the museum and the kids have LOVED it. This is our first trip...

Faye spent about 200 minutes putting these two babies to bed. And then, in true Faye style, she got a little frustrated with her shoe- so I kept that in there.

We went again with my parents a couple months ago:

There is an amazingly large Egyptian Sandbox every winter at the museum. The kids could go and spend hours just in there. And they have.

Happy Birthday Dave!

2011-05-17T05:54:00.000-07:00

...Last November.

(This may be annoying that I'm posting now about what happened 6 months ago, but if I don't do this- I will regret it forever.)

As always, we had an amazing birthday party for Dave. And by amazing- I mean not amazing. Sorry. Your 30th will blow your mind with awesomeness.

100 Things to Do in Cleveland and Beyond: Activity 22

2011-03-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

Activity 22: Shaker Family Center- Family Connections Gym

Well, hello there.

This past winter we bought a pass to the Family Connections Playroom and Gym at the Shaker Family Center. The kids absoluetly LOVED it. They had a blast every time we went. The hours they are open were kind of hard for us sometimes- so we didn't get to go as often as we would've like to, but we enjoyed every second we could there.

Take a look at this video I just produced.

I like....

2011-03-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

I like...

Miles' face in this picture.

And this dude's face in this one.

I like easy Halloween. Miles and Faye getting ready to trick or treat. Faye wasn't feeling well so she went as an adorable 1 year old.

I like Henry and Faye playing robots. Don't call CPS, I took the plastic bag off Faye's head just after taking this photo.

See. I told you.

I like it when Miles takes pitures.

I like it when Faye does too.

And I especially like when Faye dresses herself.

And I like you.

Peter Parver Pumpkin Carver.

2011-03-05T04:52:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin carving at our house is an annual event full of magic and wonder. Okay, it's not that awesome, but we do look forward to it every year. And this year- the whole family got involved. Well, at least for a few minutes.

Dave, if you didn't know, is quite the artist and his pumpkin carvings are always amazing. I am always a few years behind him in technique. This year he did something totally different...

This is what he carved. I know. It's amazing.

And this is mine. I know it's not as cool as Sir Pumpkin Master Cain, but I was pretty proud of it.

Happy Halloween!
(I just wanted to be the first to say it for 2011)

West Virgina continued. Class of 2001.

2011-03-04T07:33:00.000-08:00

This part of the story wasn't nearly as entertaining as the West Vrigina Zoo. Well, at least not to the outside spectator. It turns out that being with one of my best friends of all time is so enjoyable that we usually spend most of our time laughing until my throat hurts or crying tears of joy when we are doing things like this:

Or this:

Watch this.

Now onto The Virgina of West.

These may have actually been at the zoo. But, the kids had so much fun- I had to post them.

My camera doesn't have a mic- so sadly, there is no sound. But- if you watch closely you can see Faye saying, "Baaaaa" which I think is he confusing a horse for a sheep, and also her stopping to admire the horse while saying, "Oh, so pretty." Also, there is a little footage of Abby's baby Cutie Chase. Her other child, Aspen, is pictured above riding with Miles.

Later, we went to this beautiful place called (insert name of place we went as soon as I remember what it is here) with a couple of Abby's WV friends and their kids.

The kids found a new way to enjoy the swing: the old "Dead Man's Curve." Or something.

And then the kids came as close as they will ever get as children to riding a motorcycle.

West Virginia and the Goat Attack.

2011-03-02T04:37:00.000-08:00

Before I begin- let me give you a little background* about this zoo. It is literally in the back yard of some man's house. You have to drive on a dirt road to get there. All the animals in the zoo are former circus (or something like it) performers. There is nothing more than a chain link fence between you and a bear. The zoo keeper lets the animals roam around the zoo sometimes. You feed popcorn to the animals through a tube. It is one of the saddest places I have ever been to and possibly the scariest place that my kids have ever been to. But other than that- it was great! ;)

--Now onto the amazing story of: (duh duh) The Zoo.

If you know my kids then you know that they, namely Miles, is terrified of animals. Any animal. If Miles gets worked up enough- he can get Faye to be just as scared as he is. When we walked into the indoor part of the zoo (where the birds and snakes reside) we were surprised to see a monkey knocking on the window to say, "hello." It was kind of adorable, but being that close to an animal was making Miles a little nervous.

And then the birds started squeaking and squawking and the kids were done. So we ventured outside.

We saw and fed a bunch of animals.

Faye fell in love with some crazy little monkeys.

And she wouldn't leave them. So she sat down by them while we did a loop and looked at some of the other animals.

And then...

Ok. So this isn't actually Miles- but this picture is a good representation of what the next few minutes were like.
Let me fill you in with a little story I like to call: Being mauled by a goat.

The zoo itself is basically on a great big hill. As we were making our trek down to the bottom- Miles spotted a goat who was out of it's cage- it made Miles a little tense, but it was about 100 yards away so I told him not to worry. The goat looked up, gave us some crazy eyes and then started charging. What the?!

Miles started freaking out- he let out some piercing screams of terror and fear and was climbing up me as fast as his little legs and arm could which made Faye get crazy and do the same. At one point- I was trying to run up the hill holding both screaming kids and push the stroller, but as the goat was gaining on us- I let the stroller go whizzing down the hill and moved as quickly as I could. Maybe I would get lucky and the stroller would distract him. It was no use. I, running up a ridiculously steep dirt/rock hill with two little people on each hip, was no match for this mangy snaggle tooth of a beast.

He caught up to us. My kids screaming in fear. I may have been screaming too- I was terrified as well. And then, he reached us. I tried to kick him away, but it seemed to only aggravate him. I'm not exactly sure what happened after that. He must have disappeared into thin air- because I have no memory of him actually leaving us. But he was gone- and we made it out alive. Just barely.

I thought we would be safe inside the snake and bird house- but, of course, we weren't. The goat must have spoken to the parrots inside because as soon as we walked in- our eardrums exploded at the scary squawking of about 15 birds. My kids started screaming again. Not cool, crazy birds.

We went to the dirt lot where our car was and were about to go sit in it and wait for our friends when my kids saw the one part of the zoo they could accept: the playground.

We had other adventures as well at the zoo. Including, but not limited too:

-Worrying about the senior citizens getting mixed up with a poo-throwing monkey.
-Miles getting a little depressed when noticing how sad a lonely gorilla was in his cage. "All he has, sniff sniff, is that log to be friends with. Why does he have to be in there?" I feel ya, Miles.
-A lion (whose sign reads, "don't get too close- I'm afraid you might take one of my girlfriends" referring to the three lioness sharing his home) tearing into raw meat like it was Christmas morning. It was frightening and amazing.

It was a pretty memorable day. And looking back- it was pretty freaking hilarious, but I'm not sure that my kids have ever recovered. Or, for that matter, if they ever will.

More West Virginia later.
Loves.

*One of my very best friends in all the world lives in West Virgina and we were able to go spend some time with her and her friends over there. We had many great adventures, including laughing so hard we cried- numerous times. Love you, Abs.

Yoshi's 4 year old birthday party.

2011-03-01T04:46:00.000-08:00

Like I said earlier- Miles' birthday was last fall, but I haven't posted any photos of this awesome event. Miles is (was) obsessed with MarioKart and especially Yoshi. He had been asking for a Yoshi costume for months and months and we were very excited to have a MarioKart themed birthday party.

If you couldn't tell- we are Mario, Luigi, Yoshi and Toad. And our little friend Annie is Tinkerbell ;).

We had so much fun! Miles has already started planning his next birthday party- and I won't tell you the details, but I think it's going to be pretty sweet.

Happy Four Year Old Miles!
Oh, if you are interested in hearing what Miles had to say at age three- click here. I interviewed him at age four just recently, but -of course- I haven't posted it yet. He is- as always- hilarious.

Loves to all of you.
-Cicely

2011-02-28T11:03:00.000-08:00

Miles is four! And has been for some time. Both of my kids have graduated in age and I have yet to post the pictures of their fabulous birthday parties. Since Miles' birthday was in October- I guess I had better start with his:

This is what we did on Miles' actual birth day. This, like Cedar Point, is a drive from Cleveland. But, like Cedar Point, it is very worth the drive. So, I'm counting this as my #21 Things to do in Cleveland and Beyond.

So... with that:

Activity #21- Port Farms.

Located near Erie, in Waterford, Pennsylvania this is easily one of my favorite places in all the world. There are SO MANY fun things to do at this place. You could easily go for a day trip and enjoy your time there the whole day. I took many pictures and only captured about 1/2 of what we actually did. This fabulous Fall find is only open for your enjoyment mid-Sept thru October. Since Miles' birthday is at the beginning of October- we use his birthday as an excuse to go. For more info- click here.

We will start you off with our favorite part of Port Farms:

As you can see- we had a blast and the kids had a blast. We can't wait for Miles' next birthday. Well, yes we can. But, when it comes- we will defenitely be enjoying it at Port Farms.

100 Things to Do in Cleveland and Beyond: Activity 11

2011-02-28T05:42:00.000-08:00

Activity #11: Backyard Bathing.

That bathing refers to sun bathing and bathing the car. There are a million ways to enjoy the summer sun here in Clevestown, but I have to say that hanging out in the backyard happens to be one of my favorites. Oh, the kids sort of like it too.

100 Things to Do in Cleveland and Beyond: Activity 9

2011-02-28T05:17:00.000-08:00

When making my list of our first 20 adventures- I realized that I apparently forgot #9 and #11. So I am back tracking a little bit and will try to get those done, before I move on with our winter activities.

Activity #9: CLE --Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

What?! An aiport? I know, but here is the thing: when you live over 1700 miles from every member of your family- you tend to spend a lot of time at the airport. And every time we make the journey- it is an enjoyable one for the kids. Two words: escalator. There are about 50 escalators at CLE and my kids aren't satified until they ride every last one. Who needs Cedar Point when you can go to the airport?

Of course, it's also nice to see our favorite people come down one of the escalators to greet us at the bottom.

David's Rescue- from my perspective.

2011-01-26T11:28:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 8, 2011

8:30am-

David: "Just come. My mom will watch the kids."

Me: "No. It would just be better if I stayed. Be safe, okay. If you die, I am going to be mad at you for the rest of my life."

David: "I'll be fine. Just relax."

Me: "Hey! You need to be nice to me." Dave walks out the door.

Annie comes in to bring me the keys to the car.

Me: "Is he really not coming in to say goodbye?" David walks in. He comes over to give me a hug.

David: "I love you."

Cicely: "I love you too. Just call me and tell me where you are going before you get there, okay?"

David: "We will probably go to either American Fork or Guardmans Pass, but I will call you."

...

12:30pm- "Dave. It's me. I'm just wondering where you are and how you guys are doing. Call me when you get a sec. "

1:00- Why hasn't he called me? He is in so much trouble. No, he needs this time with his friends. It's fine. He's fine. I worry to much.

4:00- They should be getting hungry soon. I bet they will be coming down off the mountain within the hour. Plus, it's going to be dark soon.

5:01- Call David- no answer. Call Annie- no answer. Call Spencer- no answer. Call Scott- no answer. Why don't I have Anna's (Scott's wife) phone number?

5:12- via text: Hey. I'm starting to get worried. Is everything alright?

Check the window. Any cars? Great, it is snowing. Is my phone on? Check the window again. No lights. Call him. No answer. Check the window...

Something is wrong. No it's not. He does this every time he goes snowboarding. He's fine.

5:45- Call Dave.

5:50- via text: It is totally dark outside. You have to be done, right? Call me ASAP.

6:05- Call Annie.

6:14- Call Dave.

6:50- This is getting out of control. Should I even be worried? I don't want to be mad at him. It's going to be fine. Right?

Call Dave.

Call Annie.

Call Scott.

Call Spencer.

6:58- via email-

Hey Joe. I know this is weird, but Dave and Spencer went snowmobiling today- I think they went up to American Fork- but, I can't get a hold of them. It has been dark for hours and I have been calling all of them all day long with no answer. I feel like 8 o'clock is really late to still be snowboarding. Do you happen to know what kind of car Spence was driving or possibly even the license plate number? I'm a worrier. And I don't want to be a widow. Please call me if you get this: 801.520.3585.
Thanks.
-Cicely

7:20- Call Dave.

7:26- Call Dave.

Something has to be wrong. It has been dark for hours and if none of them have service- they are still up on the hill. Something is wrong. No, it's not. It's fine. No, it's not. Something is wrong.

7:30- My sister, brother-in-law and nephew walk in the door.

Me: "Danny? Should I be worried? I mean I shouldn't be right? Or should I be?"

Danny: "It is most likely that there is some mechanical problem with the snowmobile and they are just having trouble putting it on the truck. I wouldn't worry just yet."

Me: "Yeah, totally. Although, I am really worried though."

Danny: "I'll drive up Big Cottonwood to Guardsman and see if I can find their car. Do you know what they were driving?"

No. I have no clue. But Danny said not to worry and I really do trust his judgment. How am I going to tell David that he can't do this anymore without him being mad at me? I can't wait for him to walk in the door so I can hug him. Maybe Anna has some clue about where they are. Maybe I can find Anna's number on facebook or something- at least she can tell me that this isn't a big deal and I can stop worrying...

7:43- Call David.

8:01- Call David.

8:10- Danny walks in- pulls me aside. "I didn't find anything. I think it is time that we call the police."

Oh shit. If Danny thinks we need to call the police then we need to call the police and if the police are involved that means that David is missing and that means that he is not coming home and that means that they either fell off the canyon wall driving down or they are stuck on the hill...in the dark...and cold... Oh, please, no.

Tears.

Danny: "Do you have any idea what car they were driving?"

Me: "No. I emailed Joe, but he hasn't called me back. I don't have anyone else's phone numbers. Spencer lives with his Dad- I could go up there and see what I can find out.

Danny: "I'll drive you."

8:15- We pull up to Spencer's house, a girl comes walking out to the driveway as we are getting out of the car.

Her: "Cicely?"

Me: "Anna?!"

We hug and cry. Hard.

Anna (between sobs): "Where are they?! I'm freaking out! I've just been home by myself so mad at him for not calling and I came up here because I thought maybe they were here. I've been here for about 30 minutes and then you pulled up."

While Anna and I cry and talk, Danny calls the police.

Me: "I'm so glad you were here. I've been trying to get your number. I just don't know what to do? I don't even know where they went or what car they are driving."

Anna: "I dropped Scott off. They are driving a big Silver truck with a big snowmobile trailer."

Our search began.

_________________________________
The next few hours was spent gathering clues about where they were, what they were driving and what they possibly had with them.

Clue #1: Joe called me back and gave us so more information about the car and the snowmobiles. He also told us that they have been out looking for Spencer past midnight more than a dozen times. This surprisingly made us feel a lot better. But not good enough to stop worrying.

Clue #2: At about 10:00 pm Anna called Scott's parents to let them know what was going on. A few minutes later Scott's mom called Anna and by a fantastic miracle he had mentioned to her that they stopped for food in Heber.

We knew at least what part of the state they were in! This was a major breakthrough for us.

I called the Summit Police Department right away.

Dispatch: "Were they driving a silver Dodge Ram with a trailer on the back?"

Me: "Yes!!!" They knew where the truck was! They knew what canyon they went to! They will know how to find them!

Dispatch: "We were just waiting for someone to call and claim the vehicle- we will send a Search and Rescue team right away."

They have a chance. I hope.

__________________________________________

I did a lot of speaking with the leader of the search and rescue team and Spencer's brother- giving and getting information about what was happening, what supplies they may have with them, descriptions of persons, snow mobiles, or any other information that might be helpful.

Anna was with me. I really liked having her there- she seemed to calm me down.

At about midnight they started the search.

Anna stayed with me and cried and we talked and cried and talked.

It was blizzarding outside and it wasn't making us feel any better.

Anna's dog was in her car and she decided to take him home and then come back up to my parent's house. The blizzard was so bad that she didn't make it to her house. She decided to go to Scott's parents house which was closer and much safer.

I don't think I've ever felt more alone.
___________________________________________

Every once in a while I would get updates from the team. No sign of him.

At 3:30AM the leader called and told me that the weather conditions were too bad- and that he had to pull his guys off the hill. The team would resume the search in the morning.

My world shattered.

Between sobs: "I don't know anything about this sort of thing. Are they going to make it through the night?"

John the leader: "Yes. As long as they built a fire, and found some sort of shelter they should be okay."

"Thank you so much."

I wish I could say that I believed him.

____________________________________________

After that phone call I was not myself. I wish I could explain how I was feeling, but I don't think I can. A part of me knew that he had to still be alive, but most of me thought that something had gone wrong and I would never see him again.

Terrible thoughts.

I sat and watched the fire. Time wasn't moving.

More terrible thoughts. Planning his funeral in my head. How could I possibly continue without him? Other terrible thoughts. The worst thought of all: How am I going to explain to Miles and Faye that they are never going to see their Daddy again? How am I going to explain that to myself?

I'm not strong enough for this.

Every so often my Mom would come upstairs from sleeping with the kids or my Dad would come in and try to comfort me. Like I said, I wasn't the same person. I was mean to my Dad. And I was uncontrollably sobbing and hysterical with my mom.

I guess I just needed to be alone and think about him.

___________________________________

I spoke to Anna a few times. She was planning on going up to where their truck was as soon as the snow stopped. We ended up going up Parley's Canyon before the storm was over. She had a few of her family members in her car and David's Dad, Sister (Aly), and Brother-in-law (Davey) joined me.

Aly and I sat in the back of the car. She was so sweet to me. She would just hug me or touch me to calm me down. Most of the car ride I was uncontrollably crying again. I tried to stop, but, I literally couldn't.

There were signs of daylight- which meant they would start the search soon.

Aly kept saying: they are going to find them.
Anna kept saying that too.

I felt like I was the only one who was going to be prepared when they told us...
____________________________________________

We got up there and the Rescue team was gathering. There were so many of them. I wanted to hug them and say 1000 thank yous, but all I could do was stand there and let my cheeks get hot and wet again.

The Sheriff gathered us and gave us a little talk about what may or may not happen. I don't really remember what he said, but it was something like, "We can't promise anything and it may not be good." I'm pretty sure that everything else he said was positive, but I don't think I got past those two things.

The men geared up and one by one left on their snowmobiles to find my husband.

More and more people showed up to help. And more and more people called and offered help. There were thousands of prayers and thoughts. and I am grateful for every single one of them.
___________________________________

At 10:15AM the Sheriff came out with his walkie-talkie and announced that they were found:

"We found all four of them and they are in good condition. They were somewhere that they shouldn't have been. We should be seeing them in about 30 minutes."

Any words I could use to describe what that moment felt like to me would never do it justice.

He was alive! I would get to hold him again! And I would never let him go. His life wasn't over. My life wasn't over.

About 45 minutes later we saw the brigade coming down the mountain. He was getting close enough to touch. As soon as they pulled into the lot- I ran to him.

"Hey," he sighed with a half smile as he pulled off his mask and hood. "I am so sorry."

I hugged him and sobbed.

I believe I was actually repeating over and over, "You don't ever get to do that to me again!" in between cries. I wasn't sure if he could understand me or not.

He just hugged me tighter and closer and said, "It's okay. I'm okay. It's okay."

________________________________________

There were a lot of things we found out after all of this had happened.

- There were avalanches near where they were.
- The Sheriff told us later that they hadn't expected them to make it through the night.
- It was literally a miracle that no one was hurt or sick. They each had some minor frostbite, but that was it.
-Not to mention everything that happened to them when they were out there.

The Team Leader and the Sheriff just kept saying how "lucky" they were.

________________________________________

I know that physically he was there and that I could see and touch him, but I think I was afraid that it was just my imagination and he would be leaving again soon.

I couldn't help but just stare at his face and be holding on to some part of him.

We got to ride down the canyon together side by side, thanks to our friend Matt Call. I heard David's side of the story. It was amazing. And awful. And wonderful. And it is something I will never forget.

______________________________________

Now, it is January, 26. This happened two and half weeks ago. For some reason, it took me a really long time to write any of this down. I started a few days after it happened and couldn't get myself to finish it. Until today. And I'm really happy that I have. Maybe now I can get past it and not cry every time I talk or think about it.

Someone told me that- although it was awful, she hopes I don't ever really get over it. So I always have that feeling of complete and total love for David in my heart forever. And I will.

I have a lot of thoughts and feelings about the situation. Too many to share. And most of them- probably too personal as well, but I will say this: I love that man. And I am so immensely grateful for the prayers and miracles that took place on that day.

Click here to get a view of what happened on David's side. David's sister, Annie, blogged this just after the event.

Before I finish, I want to add one very important thing:

Thank you a million times to the Search and Rescue team. The Wastach County Search and Rescue team are one of the best in the entire nation. And they are all volunteers. Every one of them. I am incredibly grateful for their amazing expertise and wanted to just hug each one of them that came triumphantly down the mountain that day. You guys have no idea how incredible you are and how many people your efforts affect. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Loves.
-Cicely

Conversing Today.

2011-01-20T13:46:00.001-08:00

Miles and Faye are sitting on the couch reading a story together...

Faye: Oh! Gooses!

Miles: No, those are Ja Waffs (Giraffes).

Faye: Waffs?

Miles: No, Ja. Waffs.

Faye: Oh! Jaffs!

Miles: Yeah, Jaffs.

I love my children.

Team Blog.

2011-01-18T20:52:00.000-08:00

I have been absent.

I really want to start blogging again.

So be ready for that.

The Best and Worst Days of my Life.

2011-01-09T21:29:00.000-08:00

Dearest friends-

I am just completely overwhelmed by the outpour of love, kindness, and prayers that we have received from you. I truly believe in the miracles of the gospel and am so grateful for your help and concern for my husband.

He, along with his sister and two best friends, got stuck with their snowmobiles and snowboards in the Uinta Mountains due to wind, snow and foggy conditions. We had no idea where they were. Through a small (or really big) miracle, we found their truck in Heber and sent Search & Rescue right away. They looked from about 12am-4am and had to pull their team off the mountain because the weather was too bad. I thought for sure that meant that I would never see David again. David and his friends built a snowcave to hide from the elements and made a fire from a lighter, a bandana, some alcohol wipes and a lot of tiring trips on foot to find dry wood to keep the fire going. The fire saved them. They were found by the Search & Rescue team at about 10:15 this morning. It was another miracle that no one had to lose any digits or have any severe conditions- just minor frostbite. The sheriff and the Patrol Caption just kept saying how "lucky" they were and told me, after the ordeal was over,- that they hadn't expected them to make it through the night.

I don't really know exactly how to react or to respond to what has happened, except to hug David every chance I get and to get on my knees and thank my Heavenly Father for allowing me to be with him again.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for all of your prayers.

Loves. Seriously.
-Cicely

Christmas blues.

2010-12-14T18:45:00.000-08:00

Every year around Christmas time I get super sad. I know it is a happy and magical time of year, but for some reason all the happy emotions catch up with me and I go into a Christmas funk.

Miles' fish, Sharpie, died today and watching Miles try to cope with his little friend's death was really hard for me. How can I make sure that he never has to be sad like that again?

Faye didn't understand that Sharpie died. She did, however, understand the sadness of it all. As I was holding Miles and trying to console him- I, too, was tearing up and when Faye came over and saw us at first she was confused and after a few seconds, she realized that she needed to be sad too. It was awful. I will never forget her face.

I love my kids. They are good kids and they both have such tender hearts. I am blessed to have them.

Also, note to my future self: don't ever get a dog- unless it is the kind that will outlive you and your babies.

20 of my 100 Fun Things

2010-11-06T05:54:00.000-07:00

I hit the 20 mark of the 100 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Cleveland.

Here they are:

1. Preston's HOPE Park

2. Sulfur Springs

3. Shaker Memorial Day Parade

4. Cedar Point

5. Lake Farm Park

6. Shaker Heights Swimming Pool

7. Chuck E Cheese

8. 4th of July!

-Hinkley Lake .

9. CLE

10. Legacy Village Free Outdoor Concerts

11. Backyard Business

-Cleveland Metroparks Zoo .

12. Blueberry picking at Voytko Farms

13. West Side Market

14. Memphis Kiddie Park

15. Natural History Museum

16. Horseshoe Lake

17. Block Party

18. Beachwood City Park

19. Beachwood City Aquatic Center Playground

20. Chagrin Falls.

21. Port Farms

22. Shaker Family Center

23. Children's Museum

24. Enjoying the snow

25. Country Lights at Lake Metro Farm Park

26. Ice Skating Lessons

27. Hinkley Lake (#8)

28. Zoo (#11)

If you interetested in a full list- click here.

Have any ideas for the fall or winter months that I should know about? Let me know.

Loves!

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 20

2010-11-06T05:10:00.000-07:00

Chagrin Falls.

Here we are in the lovely and charming little town of Chagrin Falls. We only spent an hour or two and I failed to take pictures of the adorable little popcorn/icecream/candy/hot dog shop on Main Street that my kids absoluetly adored.

I was laughing for a good 15 minutes of this. Can you say awkward?

We had a blast and I can't wait to take Dave there.

I'm pregnant.

2010-11-05T04:30:00.000-07:00

Whoa, whoa! Don't read too much into that. I'm only pregnant according to my four year old:

"Mommy, I think you have a baby in your tummy because it is getting bigger."

Cool.

I worked out SOOO hard yesterday I thought I was going to pass out. And ate about 400 less than I normally do.

Thanks Miles for that swift kick in the butt.

Love- your unpregnant mother.

Pump up the pumpkins.

2010-10-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

What do you call a hot dog with all it's insides taken out? A Hollow-weiner!

We love Halloween here at the Creepy Cains. One of our most beloved traditions is carving pumpkins. I am getting better every year, but I am always 2 years behind David. He is a pumpkin master.

Here is mine this year:

And here is his masterpiece.

This was my headless horseman last year:

This was David's nod to the soon to be elected Pres O' USA:

Miles started one, but didn't want to touch the guts so his pumpkin carving time was short lived. And Faye ended up just drawing on mine with marker and feeding Dave's skull pumpkin guts.

Happy Halloween!

Miles' 4 year old interview.

2010-10-25T04:47:00.000-07:00

As always- Miles is hilarious.

How are you today? Good.

What are you doing? Watching Dora.

What is your favorite show? MarioKart.

Why? Because it is brand new and we never got it.

Are you in preschool? Yeah. Today, on the last day, its going to … (trails off). The, the, the, brown rice is going to change and I think it’s going to be pink sand (giggles)! Oh no, the statue is gonna break.

Who is your best friend? Yoshi and Andersen and Breckon.

Do you like any girls? I wish I had a new baby girl. Yeah, I wish. Did you see that? The ball just rolled and I just got onto the couch- it was just easy.

What do you want to name your new baby girl? No, I want two girls. My favorite thing is to wear my Yoshi shirt.

Are you excited for winter? Yippee! I can’t wait to go on the sled.

Tell me about Faye. She is 1 and she is very angry. She is kind of angry today and I can’t wait for winter and I love the fishes in the fish tank. The End.

Tell me about the fish. They are good and we feed them.

Tell me about church. Church is very healthy when we go to it. It makes us grow and it is very good for us and we have to go when it’s Sunday. (Falls to the floor.) I didn’t get hurt because the rug is cozy.

Do you love the new rug? Yeah, I just really love my new bouncy ball. I just call “Yellow” “Yellow-y” for short.

How old are you? 4.

How was your birthday? I loved the cupcakes, but I really want to eat some candy.

What are you going to be for Halloween? Yoshi. You know what Yoshi has in it? It has an E in it.

Do you know how to read? Yeah, Curious George knows how to read and he can say "fish." The end.

Do you like to read? Yeah.

What are you doing in school? We go to the playground and I don’t know what we do for it for sure. Oh yeah, we do group time and go to the playground and we sing the goodbye song and every time we say goodbye to everyone and everyday we are not going to use instruments and that’s all I can talk about.

What is your favorite thing to do at home? The favorite thing I love to do is go to Cedar Point. Because it is very fun like Chuck E Cheese. Cedar Point is funner than Chuck E Cheese.

What are some things you know how to do? A summersault on the rug like this… (does a sommersauIt) I can do it on the rug, but I can’t when I’m on the green and brown rug be cause it’s too “wuff” and I think we got it at Target. And we got the new rug at Costco. And we got this new comfy rug that’s like a blankey.

What is your favorite food: Cereal.

Is that it? Or is there anything else you want to tell me about? The End.

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 18-19

2010-10-25T03:38:00.000-07:00

Beachwood City Park

We were feeling exercise-y and decided to go on a family walk and bike ride. We found this super cute trail in Beachwood Park (the entrance is on Richmond Rd). Miles felt great about taking his bike on a "real" bike trail.

And Faye was content searching for birds and butterflies.

I, for one, was just enjoy those awesome moments when you think to yourself: This is how life is supposed to be.

________________________________________________

After our walk, we went to the nearby Beachwood City Aquatic Center Playground.

This, my friends, is a fantastic playground. It has everything you could want in a playground: lots of swings, some of the tallest slides I've seen on a playground, rock walls, a dinosaur digging sand pit, diggers, teeter-totters and even some extra fun toys/machines we had never before seen.

It may sound just li\ke any old playground, but it isn't. The reason for its greatness is that the area is so open and spacious that you can keep tabs on all the kids at once- say if you were winded from a previous walk and just want to sit down.

The kids love this park. And so did we. We will definitely be returning.

2010-10-16T05:53:00.000-07:00

Love.

We had our family photos taken by Katie Blacker Photography and we LOVE them.

See some more by clicking here and here.

Enter.

2010-10-13T09:30:00.001-07:00

I have some cute friends: here and here.

They have a cute vintage shop: here.

They are giving away a cute bag: here).

Go look and see.

My new Pixie Do. or Don't.

2010-10-05T17:44:00.000-07:00

What do you think of my new hair? Boyish? You can leave your comment anonymously if it will make you feel better.

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 17

2010-10-03T14:04:00.000-07:00

Block Party! What what.

We are blessed to live in a city who loves their people and their neighbors. Thus, the block party! We love our neighbors and even the stray kittens living in the neighborhood. Don't miss the cutest video in the history of the world at the end of this post.

Firetruck!

Chalk it up.

Rest period.
Who is that guy?
Flared nostrils.

Yeah, you don't have to tell me. I know who cute my kids are.

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 16

2010-10-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

Horseshoe Lake Park

What up peeps.

I am really behind on our outings so I am going to be popping them out pretty quickly.

We really like this park. Well, I really like it. Dave isn't really into feeding the ducks- especially since they never want to come eat our food. It could be that I keep forgetting the bread and the only thing we had was apple crisps for them. A little awkward, I know.

But, that is beside the point. This place is awesome- swings, a climbing boulder, a big pavilion, ducks and fish, a gorgeous lake lookout that reminds me of The Secret Garden, a giant outdoor fireplace that seems a little out of place, and much much more.

It is in Shaker Heights and it is worth a visit.

Until next time.

More conversations

2010-09-30T06:53:00.000-07:00

Miles: "Faye!!!! Don't shut the door!"

The door shuts and Faye comes running out to me.

Me: "Go open the door for Miles."

Faye goes running back.

"Stuck!"

Miles thought the door: "Faye, you have to do a tummy wummy fight!"

Faye makes the sound of her body smashing into the door.

Miles: "Harder!!"

Faye makes a louder sound of her body smashing into the door. "Ugh."

Miles: "You can do this, Faye! Try again!"

Faye stops and I hear little feet coming my way.

Faye: "Mawee, can you help me pwease?"

Maybe you had to be there. But it was awesome.

Remember what Miles used to say? I do.

2010-09-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

For bed time: "Mama Suite, come? Mommy, come? Daddy, come?"

Referring to us as one person: "Mah ee da ee."

"Go-tah-leep." As we are walking down stairs from putting him to bed.

Me: "I love you Miles. do you love Mommy?"
Miles: "So much."

"I sorry Mommy. I sorry wall. I sorry chair."

Scorpion legs: "Duh uh you." (When he thinks he is making the shape of a W.)

"Come On!" When he is frustrated- usually on the pot.

"Danks"- thanks. "Fwees"- please. "Scuse me"- excuse me. "Sowwy"- sorry. He is so polite.

"Dar. Fall. Fwees." Starfall please.

"That stinky shirt smells like stink."

"Oh Man, that's weird."

"Awmost dare Faye."- Almost there Faye. When Faye is sad- he tries to console her.

"Are you kiddin me?"

"I'n gonna stunk you."

"I love you two. And you two love me."

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 15

2010-09-30T05:40:00.000-07:00

Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Super fun and interesting and we went on a free day! We got to go with some of our favorite people so that was a plus. My kids love dinos so the dinosaur display was a favorite. It also made the kids a little nervous, but in the end it all worked out.

Check out some of the good times. Click here to see more.

Randoms

2010-09-25T06:14:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking...

About babies. There are 14 (give or take) pregnant people in my ward alone. Faye seems older than a lot of those embryo's next oldest sibling. Am I being selfish for not wanting another baby right now?

Tampons. The other day I heard Faye making the sound of whirling (you know: whoa whoa whoa whoa) and when I opened the door she was swinging a tampon around and around like a cartoon nunchuck. It was awesome.

Neighbors. We share our house with a couple downstairs, but they haven't been home in over a week and they didn't tell us they were leaving. There are only two things that could have happened:

-1. One has killed the other, ran away, and there is a rotting corpse a floor away from us.

-or 2. They went on vacation and didn't tell us.

Either way- I'm upset about it.

Gushers. The commercial with the kid with a gusher instead of an eye makes me super uncomfortable.

Talking animals. Recently I have had a change of heart about my dislike for talking animals. That pig with the pin wheel and the "speak for yourself moron" dog on Billy Madison has made me a believer.

Brains. My kids are going to be smarter than me in like two years. I need to find a way to stay ahead of the pack. My plan is to watch more 30 Rock.

Television in general. I'm totally not opposed to it. And I don't believe it rots our children's brains. My 3 year old can read and my 21 month old isn't far off. Thanks Leapfrog and pbskids.

That last statement. Don't you judge me.

My love. David's next two rotations are about an hour away which means I won't be seeing him very often. I get sad when he isn't around. And a little scared. And with a dead body on the first floor- I may just have to move in with a friend for a few months. Any takers?

Transition. For some reason I feel like my life is in transition mode- only I have no idea what I am waiting to transition into.

Coolness. Are you born cool? Or is it a learned behavior?

The End.

My Kids' First Real Conversation:

2010-09-02T11:30:00.000-07:00

Faye: Milesh, guess what.

Miles: What, Faye?

Faye: Fishies.

Miles: Fishies?

Faye: Yeah, fishies!

(hysterical laughter from both of them)

Faye: Milesh, guess what.

Miles: What?

Faye: Thomas.

Miles: You can say Thomas?

Faye: Yeah, Thoooomassss!

Miles: Is Thomas your best friend? Who is your best friend?

Faye: Feet!

Miles: You can say feet? Oh, yeah, you can say feet.

Faye: Yeah, Feet! Ew, stinky feet!

(Both of them laugh hysterically again).

By far the best minute of my week.

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 13-14

2010-09-02T04:37:00.000-07:00

Activity 13: West Side Market

My friend Kate Slash Katie invited us to this super cool local West Side Market. This is actually the only activity we have done so far that is in Cleveland proper. And only the second time that we have been downtown.

When you walk in- there is so much produce that it is almost overwhelming. Scratch that, it is overwhelming.

And then you move into the main vendors and it is just ridiculous. I saw everything from raw squid, to a rack of goat ribs, to green apple flavored popcorn. The only thing we bought a some delicious spinach noodle salad and I think Kate Slash Katie picked up some delicious bakery looking breads. Now that I am better prepared- I feel like I can go back with a clear objective and really stock.

This is me getting excited about my noodle salad. If you look closely you will find an unfortunate looking child who appears to be underneath me. I'm not actually sure if this is my kid or not.

_______________________________________________________

Activity 14: Memphis Kiddie Park

We love the Memphis Kiddie Park. Think of this place as the part of the amusement park that is just for the little people. We bought a book of 25 tickets for just over $20- each ride is one ticket per rider.

The kids absoluetly loved it.

I like Faye in this one.

And Miles in this one.

Warning: Stay clear of the rollercoaster. Unless you like bruises and crying children.

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 12

2010-08-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Activity #12: Blueberry picking at Voytko Farms

We were so exicted when we got invited to pick blueberries! We were lucky enough to go with some of Miles and Faye's favorite people. The kids loved it and it was a great way to get the kids thinking about agriculture and fresh deliciousness.

We went at the end of July and will be doing it again for sure next year. Click here for more info.

I love my kids.

Another Biggest Loser Blog

2010-08-19T06:33:00.000-07:00

I'm getting chubs again.

$20 to join.

Sept 12th- mid Dec.

More details later.

Let me know if you are interested.

Click here for some of our past Biggest Loser Blog info.

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 11

2010-08-19T05:18:00.000-07:00

Activity #11: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

This is Miles' favorite spot in Cleveland. He wants to go at least twice a day. I, on the other hand, have ethical issues with Zoos in general- but I push my inner hippie aside when it comes to the kids. Plus, we have three fish so I am totally a hypocrite anyway.

Right now at the Zoo there is an awesome animatronic Dinosaur exhibit. Miles and Faye have a love/hate relationship with the dinos, but as long as Faye doesn't get too close to the big ones and Miles doesn't get sprayed (some water sprays at the end of the exhibit) they enjoy their time with quadrupeds:

Here I totally captured the amazing technology of robotic dinosaurs...

More dinos.

And here is a random kid posing with us.

Have I told you lately how cute I think Faye is?

Miles' favorite dinosaur. He romps and stomps through the house with his two finger claws and his super grumpy face.

Not the best picture, but Faye really wanted to pet one.

I have a family here on earth.

Miles on a hunt.

Inside the wolf cabin. One of the only air conditioned parts of the zoo.

I love this picture of Miles. Can you tell how sweaty he is?

The Northern Trek.

Dave thought it was important to take a picture of a bald eagle. Probably for patriotic reasons.

I LOVE to just watch this girl walk. She sort of sticks her tummy out when she walks and she swings her arms... It's nothing short of adorable. I feel like I need a bumper sticker that says: my kids are way cuter than yours.

Bug eyed.

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: #10

2010-08-15T05:22:00.000-07:00

Activity #10: Free Outdoor Concerts at Legacy Village in Beachwood

We just accidentally happened up on this one, but it was a very happy accident. We were with two of our good friend families- the Hursts and the Youngs at Chipotle and heard a bumping and a booming that we wanted to go check out...

It turns out they have free concerts Friday, Saturday and Sunday thru Sept! We will for sure be going back here to get our groove on. Not to mention our sweat on- dancing well is hard work.

This is some awesome bendy dancing.

What else have we been doing?

2010-08-10T04:47:00.000-07:00

We have had so much fun playing with new friends and old ones.

My best friend Wynter Abby Clawson Johnson III (I added "the 3rd" cause I wanted her to have just one more name) brought her little people from West Virgina to visit us.

My mom found some awesome Miles appropriate chocolate chips and we made soy and tofu based chocolate chips cookies that Miles can enjoy. I never thought Miles would ever be eat A CCC (that is cool people code for "chocolate chip cookie" it will totally catch on - just wait). They are actually really good!

Also, Miles says that when he grows up he wants to be a chef. And a doctor. And a teacher. And a rock climber. I told him he could be a doctor that cooks healthy meals for his patients and rock climbs during his time off and teaches in church. He said no.

Faye.

Awesome Bounce House Birthday Party for one of Miles' favorite people in all of the world, Breckon!

Lunch date with the Christensens.

Faye trying to sleep like Grandpa.

We also got to visit our very good friends The Keiths!

First we had some water play in the backyard...

Then we played inside...

The next day we went to the Children's Museum in Pittsburg!

We have been having so much fun! Stay tuned for the Cleveland 100 #10-15! Super exciting fun to the maximum.

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 9

2010-08-07T05:20:00.000-07:00

Activity #9: Hinckley Lake

This was a really fun little place. Once again, I didn't take pictures of all of it, just mainly what my kids were doing. What isn't pictured is a fun little shallow area for the kids to walk around and play in past a second set of little falls, a great bike trail around the lake (3 miles long), and places with picnic tables and BBQs. There is also a snack bar at the lake incase you don't want to pack a lunch. We went with some friends and cooked hot dogs and ate during "everybody out" times (quarter to every hour).

The kids had a blast and I was excited they got to play in the sand again. We really miss Presque Isle in Erie.

Cons: The water is someone questionable. I am sure it is fine, but I get grossed out by any type of merkiness and this water was a little concerning. Nobody else seemed to mind. Also, I had a bad parenting moment here, but I don't want to talk about it.

It looks like Faye is throwing sand in her face.

I was having a panic attack at this point hoping that she wouldn't drink the water. She did. She didn't end up with Malaria or The Runs, so I guess it worked out for the best. We have yet to see the long term affects.

There is always a life guard on duty. And for some reason Miles LOVES talking to the life guards. Any lifeguard. They don't love talking back. Lifeguards are too cool for school and Miles doesn't have a tan or an awesome body- so he is out of the cool kid club.

Faye played in this hole for like 45 minutes.

You can see some of the picnic tables in the background of this picture.

Have I told you how excited I am that Miles and Faye are friends now?

Check out more info here.

Why am I not laughing?

2010-08-05T05:05:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to figure out why I am not funny anymore. I think it may be because I haven't had anything to complain about for a while and that always makes for a good read. I'm starting to worry that I am turning into an old lady. One that isn't interesting. Or funny. I'm not happy about it.

I'm going to try and recharge my hilariousness and take a look at some of my favorite posts from blogs past:

I said my son has Blue Legs.

Best Ever

Maybe you didn't quite understand

Who's complaining?

This one isn't so much funny, but it is still one of my favorites:

The Best Christmas Present Ever

And my favorite Movie Review:

Twilight.

I hope this can get me back on track.

Here, I am going to say the first thing that pops into my head:

George Carlin's ponytail made me second guess bringing children into the world.

Well? How did I do? Is the funniness back?

100 Things To Do in Cleveland And Beyond: Activity 6-8

2010-07-31T04:55:00.000-07:00

Activity #6: Shaker Heights Swimming Pool

I am in love with this pool. It is like a mini-water park for the kids! Here, let me show you...

It also has two waterslides and a lazy river! For some reason, I don't have pictures of them, but you can get some here.

We bought a punch pass and LOVE going. We are headed there this week again! I heart Shaker Heights.

Loves!

_______________________________________________

Activity #7: Chuck E Cheese

Yes, I know these are pretty much everywhere, but for about $5.00 it creates at least an hour worth of fun for the kids (and the husbands). Just make sure that you wash hands before and after... you never know.

Great Tip: Be the first ones there and stock up on tickets that automatically come out when they turn each machine on. Last time we got about 400 tickets! It was a dream come true.

Also, Miles thinks Chuck E Cheese is the coolest mouse around.

__________________________________________________

Activity #8: America's Birthday!

We were lucky enough to get invited to a 4th of July Breakfast/Bike Parade, Backyard BBQ, and to go see the fireworks at the Shaker Height's Junior High. Unfortunately we only made it to the first two, but plan on going next year to the fireworks!

Mommy accidently left Miles' little bike at the playground and when we went to decorate his bike for the parade- there was no bike to be found. So, lucky for him, he scored a brand new big kid bike! He wants to marry it.

The kids at the bike parade:

BBQ Bash!:

Miles' little girlfriend:

America's Birthday Cupcakes:

Can't wait to see the fireworks next year!

Peace.

100 Things to Do with kids in Cleveland and Beyond. #4-5

2010-07-24T04:06:00.000-07:00

Activity #4: Cedar Point!

(So this one is a little drive from Cleveland, but if you are in or around Ohio- you must partake of the awesomeness of Cedar Point.)

Best Amusement Park in the World. Literally.

We had so much fun and can't wait to go again! The rides are phenomenal. I have never been on such amazing roller coasters in all my life! The kids also had a great time. We walked in and immediately went on the Merry-Go-Round.

Once we got organized (and potty breaked) we were off! My parents went to wait in line while we stayed and played at ONE of the kid's areas.

What's that you say?! When was it our turn for rides?! Get this: Parent Swap Pass (thanks, Abs). My parents waited in line, called us when they were close to the front of the line, gave our sweet pass to the workers there, and then when they were off the ride they would watch the kids for a few minutes while David and I went right on through the exit and got on the ride immediately. So, not on only did we not have to wait in line, but we also felt like rock stars! Well, I felt like a rock star. David felt like he was cheating the system.

How do you get this wonderful gift of amusement parks? Just go to the Customer Service Desk just inside the gates and pick one up. No charge. It's awesome.

Anyway, at first Faye just wanted to watch Miles ride the rides, so...

After some rides we ate lunch at Johnny Rockets and then Miles played in the fountain. Miles is one funny and entertaining kid. People walking by stopped to watch him play in the fountain.

Faye wasn't into getting wet, but she, too, enjoyed watching Miles have the time of his life.

When she decided it was safe to drive the "caa" (car), I couldn't keep her off the rides!

I think Faye did the cars about 25 times.

Miles moved on.

I wish I would've taken some pictures of the massive roller coasters. Or of my parents. I guess I was focused on the kids. My bad. Anyway, you can find more info about the park and it's award winning coasters here.

You won't be disappointed.

We will be going back ASAP. and I can't wait.

________________________________________

Activity #5: Lake Farm Park in Kirtland.

This was a fun little farm with all sorts of things to do!

Milking a cow.

When I asked Miles if he wanted to milk a cow he said, "I can't, Mom, I'm allergic to cow's milk." Good thing my son is brilliant, because for some reason it didn't occur to me that Miles milking a cow is like the worst idea in the history of the world.

Plus, I don't think he was into it. It may have had something to do with the fact that right after we sat down, the cow splattered poopsies all over the front row. It was really unfortunate- and really hard for me not to laugh.

Hay ride.

Miles wasn't actually grumpy in this picture. This is what he does when I tell him to smile.

Meet the animals.

I freaked Miles out with this one. I was holding the kids for a picture and got Miles way too close. He is already terrified of dogs and to him a horse is just a great big dog. He let out a blood chilling scream and started crying his eyes out. Sorry, dude.

Learn to Grind Wheat.

Miles stayed there for a while, but since my kids have ADD they both got up and found more interesting things to do, like take pictures of me diving into a bag of dried apples.

Activity room.

Miles thought he was being hilarious.

Trains.

After the festivities, we found a cute little train yard that I think the kids could've watched all day and been happy.

There was also pony rides, a little playground, and a pavilion that we had lunch in!

So, besides the fact that I almost killed Miles with the cow and scared him to death with the horse, we had a pretty good day.

100 Things to Do with kids in Cleveland and Beyond. #1-3

2010-07-18T05:28:00.000-07:00

It's the Summer of Love, Love, Love. And I'm in love with the love, love, love. -B 52's.

Since we moved to Cleveland I have decided there is so much to do here that I am making it a goal to do 100 awesome activities before we move. I am calling it:

100 Things to Do in Cleveland and Beyond. Starting now.

Activity #1: Preston's H.O.P.E. in Beechwood.

We see this playground off the freeway everytime we came into town from Erie and were so excited to go! Miles calls this playground "the AWESOME one with the diggers."

Check out the website here.

Smiles- Super fun park/playground. Plenty of activities for both little and big kids. Sandbox with fossil finder, great swings, a number of playgrounds, wheelchair accessible.

Frownies- Almost too big. My kids like to go separate ways and I can't chase Faye and still keep an eye on Miles. I need one adult per child to venture here.

Activity #2: Sulfur Springs at Metroparks South Chagrin Reservation.

We spent the afternoon at this charming little spot on the river. We thought it was so much fun! We brought some water toys and played at the shallow part of the river and then took a walk down the river bed and saw some waterfalls that the kids played in. It must be a hidden gem because everytime we have gone, not too many people were there.

Smiles: It's perfect for a hot summer day. We brought a picnic and ate at the picnic table and then headed into the water to play. It's shaded and right now the water is at a perfect level for little people.

Frowner (that made some smiles): We found some sort of a lobster skeleton in the water by the big waterfall. We have no idea how it got there, but it was pretty interesting and Miles (and David) loved poking it with a stick.

For info click here.

Activity #3: Memorial Day Parade in Shaker Heights

Unfortunately I lost all the pictures from this event, but it was a blast and the kids LOVED the parade. The Shaker Heights High School Marching Band, recognized nationally, marches every year. They were amazing. We will be going again next year for sure!

*

*This is a random picture of a kid. Not my kid. But it is my parade.

Humiliation

2010-07-16T20:35:00.000-07:00

To anyone listening:

What is your definition of a "good parent?" And what can I do to become one. I am in desperate need of opinions and guidance before I explode with anxiety and my crippling fear of misguiding my children.

-Mother in need.

"Honey, whats new." -Best in Show

2010-06-12T04:15:00.000-07:00

As previously mentioned, the Cain's have undergone many changes in the past few months... Let me tell you about it.

Did I mention that we moved?

We live, happily, in a sweet little suburb of Cleveland called Shaker Heights in the great state of Ohio. We love it here. It is wonderful and beautiful and there is so much to do. I plan to blog about all of our great adventures.

David can relax. (And so can I.)

I am proud to say that after 12+ hours of studying per day, Dave has finished his first two years of med school and has taken both the USMLE and the COMLEX board exams- both of which are fancy terms for great, big, fat, 8 hour long tests. He is now doing rounds, working on patients at the hospital, and looking all doctorish. He is a handsome fellow (or MSIII, I should say (That was really bad med school humor)).

And now he can actually spend time with us! It's so awesome! I seriously can't express how great it is to be with him. He has worked so hard and continues to work hard, but now he can work hard and play. It's superb. I love my husband.

What else?

-Miles started reading. I seriously can't tell you how proud I am of this kid. One day he sounded out and read a word. The next day, a small sentence. The next day, he read a book. Borderline genius.

-Faye started walking. Finally. We though Miles took a long time @ 15 months to walk, but Faye was well into her 16th month before she could take more than two steps on her own. Now she struts her stuff all over the place.

-Faye signs. She is starting to master the art of Baby Sign. She gets so excited to show off her awesome skills and to learn as many new ones as she can. I will try and get it on film for you later.

Miles graduated. Each day he gets a little bigger. He isn't my little toddler anymore- it is bittersweet. Here he is with his best friends at the graduation of his first year of preschool (he will have three of those- I didn't think things through very well...)

Faye is growing some hairs. Sort of. She was starting to look like Doc Brown- we had to do something. Now, she mostly just has a skullet.

I am happy. I really am. Miles took this picture.

Life is wonderful.

A new family addition

2010-06-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

Among many things that have happened recently in the Cain's lives- this is one of the most shocking...

We got a minivan.

Like so many before us, we vowed that we would never get one. I was concerned that talk of purchasing such an item meant that our marriage was failing. What other vows were we prepared to break? How far down the shame spiral were we prepared to go?

Turns out that owning a minivan is everything we thought it was, but in the best possible way.

And now I am happy, nay proud, to say with conviction and love-

I LOVE MY MINIVAN!

It is true. I really do. I love everything about it and I will buy another one as soon as our budget permits. And you will too. I guarantee it or my name ain't Nathan Arizona.

And here it is:

I know we aren't as cool as these people, but we love our minivan just as much. And for those of you who own one- you ought to appreciate this clip...

2010-06-10T12:49:00.001-07:00

My Family from WiddlyTinks.com

Camera Recap

2010-04-15T04:11:00.000-07:00

Catching up-ish on the past few months...

St. Patty's Day with Erie friends!

Zeeum. (Formerly known as "Cheesum" and adultly know as "The Children's Museum.)

Zoo time!

The Beach is back in a super awesome way.

Random photos worthy of posting.

Easter!

2010-04-04T07:35:00.000-07:00

We are having so much fun for Easter!

Easter egg hunt we did with some of our friends from Erie!

Faye loves her new stroller. Thanks Gram Gram!

Miles gets paid in candy for finding plastic eggs. I guess that makes him a professional.

I think Faye will make for a fantastic hula-hooper.

Have a happy day today.

2010-03-21T21:35:00.000-07:00

Faye Bear brings me joy.

Miles has an inteverview.

2010-02-12T05:38:00.000-08:00

My good friend LD just did this with her son and I have been meaning to for sometime, but didn't get around to it until today. So, thanks for reminding me Linds.

ps. My son is seriously hilarious.

What is your name? Miles Cain.com

When were you born? Saturday

How old are you? Free

Who is your mommy? You

What does your mommy do? Sometimes she does naughty things.

Sweet. Does she sometimes do nice things? Yeah. She plays trains and she just does play on pbskids.

Oh, good. Who is your daddy? David Cain

What does your daddy do? He does collecting and downstairs he does something- I can’t say the word…

What is your favorite color? Black and green

What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to play.

What is your favorite food? Groceries and I’m gonna like carrots when I grow up too. Pancakes are my favorite food. I like pancakes with syrup and ketchup.

What food do you not like? Fruit and Vegtables.

What is your favorite animal? Dinos

Where do you want to live when you grow up? I want to play at Breckons.

What do mommy and daddy do after you go to bed? Call me when I wake up in the morning.

What does daddy say? He says even when I go to bed I need to wake up when it’s light outside.

What does mommy say? You say Gowlet.

What is your favorite song? Mister Steve

What is your favorite movie? PBSkids.

What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Oreo icecream when I go poops.

Where is your favorite place to eat? Instraunt.

That’s your favorite place to eat? Yea. Chicken nuggets have milk and chocolate in them.

Who is your favorite person? Breckon and Andersen

Who is your best friend? Breckon and Anderson.

Not me? No.

What is your favorite book? Book of Mormon.

That is a great answer.
Who is your sister? Faye. We like to chase together.

Where did Faye come from? From the hostible.

What is your favorite thing to do? Play trains with Thomas and Valentimes stickers. A lot of them.

(Although this was supposed to be the end of the interview, I couldn't help myself...)

What does Mommy do that is naughty? She acts not nicely and not behavior too.

Where do we live? I ate some pawcorn- they have soy milk in the them. We live in Pennsylvania.

Where are we moving to? Cleveland, but watch this- I can do the sign for J!

And he ran away.

The Ironic Un-superbowl Party

2010-02-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

We don't watch the superbowl. Dave just isn't that into football and I just get bummed that they got rid of the bud bowl.

So we had an unsuperbowl party for those of us that only watch the superbowl for the commericals. Turns out we didn't even watch the game or the commercials. But get this, after the party- what did we do? We turned on the TV and watched the superbowl.

Hmm.

Selling the house.

2010-01-31T18:43:00.000-08:00

Living Room

Entry into the House/ Living Room

Bathroom

Kitchen

Bay Window in Kitchen

Dining Room

Main floor Bedroom

Basement- Playroom

Basement- Guest room

Basement- Study/Office

Basement- Study/Office

Big Boy Miles' Room

Baby Faye's Room

Check out how cute my house is. I am getting ready to sell it and I thought you should see.

Living in Erie

2010-01-29T11:37:00.001-08:00

Looking for a place to buy or rent in Erie?

Check these beauties out. Tell your friends. And then buy them.

-Cicely

2010-01-29T09:19:00.000-08:00

I have a lot of blogging to do, but no time (or energy) right now, so I will post a few pics and call it a day.

Faye turns 1!

The Nativity

The Cousins for Christmas in Utah

Everything I need to know I learned from the Simpsons.

2010-01-26T10:46:00.000-08:00

Did anyone else know that the Happy Sumo was actually first the name of a restaurant on the Simpsons?

Oh, the hilarity.

2010-01-20T18:56:00.000-08:00

Today my family said..

David: Poor form.

Miles: Grandpa Jeff telled Daddy 'you don't have to eat it, you just have to eat it'.

Faye: -Well, she didn't say anything, but she laughed at everyone else.

Sabrena Suite Spot

2010-01-20T05:42:00.001-08:00

I have a sister who is called Sabrena. She is amazing.

Recently, a yogi featured Sabrena on her blog and I think she captured her very well. She said

I met Sabrena as a first-time-yogini-looking to write an article about it. Sabrena is a talented writer, inspiring blogger, (actually the first blog I officially followed), former corporate world hottie, yoga instructor, political junkie, and one of the best cheerleaders of life I've ever known. She has transformed the way I view motherhood! Yep, she has managed to make it look cool, humorous, and totally inspiring.

What does she breathe life into? Family, humor, day to day moments of OM and embracing life rain or shine. Well... let me let her tell you in her own words: "Holden's (baby wearing-attachment parenting-cloth diapering-ECing-milk making) hippie Mommy. Supposed Cougar complex (my husband's 6 years my junior, but I'm too post-preggers plump for the real label). Lover of Warhol, Zeppelin, Writing and Travel." Look Sabrena up! You will be moved, elated, and inspired!

Sabrena is extra special to me because of this:

It may not look like much to you, but to us it was magic. Let me explain...

When Faye was just four months old- she got hit with the nasty RSV and for a baby that young- it was devastating.

During this time, she decided to stop nursing. And, after she stopped nursing- she stopped eating. It was a sad and scary time. She was losing weight fast and for a baby that only weighs 12 lbs. to start losing weight- it wasn't good.

Once she was on IVs for a few days and the RSV symptoms started to diminish, she was back in action and ready for food. Well, only if it came out of the bottle. So I pumped and pumped, but it wasn't really sufficent. I was producing blue skim milk. She needed some cream.

That's when Sabrena came to the rescue! Luckilly she was pumping for her new son, Holden, and she was more than willing to share.

Now, what started as a great gesture of love for me and Faye and our family, ending up being a miracle.

Not only was the milk plenltiful (and by plentiful I mean she was pumping up to 60 oz. per day!) it was also packeted with calories. I'm not kidding you when I say that there were times that I literally had to unclog breastmilk BUTTER from the nipple. The grosser it was, the better it was for my baby.

Faye tore it up and slowly but surely, started gaining weight. All our prayers had been answered and they were answered in the form of Sabrena's Dairy Farm Whole Milk with a side of some heavy cream.

That picture shown above was the first shipment we received from Sabrena. She has sent us many since then and even Miles gets excited by it because he gets to do this:

That is him playing with the dry ice that keeps the milk cold. Fun for hours.

Sadly Sabrena will be done pumping the beginning of Feb. when Holden turns one year old. So- this is a note to share my milking- or lack of milking- story and my love for my sweet, generous, and always seemingly willing and happy to do this- sister, Sabrena.

In short- thanks to Sabrena's countless hours of pumping, prayers and love- Faye went from this:

to this:

Thank you Sabrena. You are amazing and awesome and we love and appreciate you.

Randoms time.

2010-01-14T20:13:00.000-08:00

I haven't spent a lot of time blogging recently and so I've decided to do some of my randoms to make me feel better about it.

Sleepless in Pennsylvania. Well, mostly it was Sleepless in Salt Lake, but we are still trying to get back on schedule. Miles went to sleep at 6:30 tonight and woke up at 10pm. Two words: inappropriate.

Thomas and Friends. I'm not into Thomas or his friends. I have seen the same Thomas movies time and time again, but I must not be paying attention because now that it is 11:19 in the pm and I am watching them with Miles again- I am seeing entire two or three segments that I haven't ever seen before.
Also, Gordon is a snob.

Walk this way. Faye is 12 months old and isn't even close to walking. She doesn't even want to stand up by herself- which doesn't worry me because Miles started walking at 15 months- but she has this crazy ability to climb any possible surface to reach the zenith of the room. Pray for us.

Ugh. The other day Miles jumped onto a fort (a blanket over two pillows) and landed eye first on the the cement. "Lacey said I landed on the bement and Mom says I need vegetables and fruits to get helpy and strong." He also says things like "Well, that makes me fwustewated!" and "Oh, thank you Mommy! That is fantastic or awesome or great or fabulous or terrific." And his new thing is "Ugh." It's not my favorite. Oh, he also says "That's not my favorite."

Rapunzel. Somehow I have long hair. I don't know when it happened, but the other day it was short and now it is long and coming out in exponential rates in the shower.

My past life. Today I was remembering my high school days and I was a little nostalgic for Gwen Stephani's blue hair, the animaniacs, and after school mac and cheese.

Are you kidding me? Faye just woke up.
This ends me.

-Cicely

Cha cha cha changes

2010-01-06T18:14:00.000-08:00

Jan. 5, 2010
Dear Diary-

I quit.

Love,
-CM.

Jan. 6, 2010
Dear Diary-

Ok. I'll play for a few more rounds, but I want some wild cards.

Love,
-CM.

Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown

2009-12-24T18:55:00.000-08:00

It is Christmas Eve. Miles is asleep and Faye's eye lid's are getting heavy. I love Christmas Eve. I loved it as a kid when there was a little magic in the air and I love it as a mom- there is still magic in the air, but it is just a different brand of pixie dust.

We are spending the night at my parents house in SLC and although I do love my home in Erie- I am not missing it at all. I love being around my family and David's family: playing games (including but not limited to the Wii), eating fattening treats, reading Christmas stories and talking all about Santa and and his reindeer with the kids. Miles is learning about baby Jesus and Mary. His favorite Christmas song is Away in a Manger and my heart grows three sizes every time I hear him singing it.

It isn't Christmas yet, but I feel like I have already been showered with gifts and not in the tangible sense. Being here in Utah I have been learning so much about myself and my kids and life in general. I feel like we are all growing up a little bit. It makes me kind of sad and kind of happy at the same time.

It was Faye's birthday on Dec 22. She is one year old. I'm sure I will post a big birthday love for her soon. I can't believe it has been a year. Pretty soon she will be walking and toddling and she won't be my little baby anymore. I already miss her babyness, but I can't wait for her to start talking and skipping and playing with Miles...

Miles starts primary in a week and a half. It hurts me to think that he is old enough to be so independent. He is in preschool and soon he will be in primary. My heart just shrunk a little bit.

I am excited about life right now and the stages that my kids are in right now. I understand that pretty soon I will be blogging about Miles' first loose tooth or Faye's first bike ride or driver's licenses or graduation. I am certain I will be sad and happy again every year at this time and throughout the rest of the months that aren't December.

So Merry Christmas, Cicely from the future. Remember when Miles got his train set for Christmas and was so excited he didn't want to open any other presents? Remember when we brought Faye home from the hospital on Christmas Eve and she was only 2 days old? Remember when David was in med school and we got by on student loans and love? Those were the good ol' days, eh?

Merry Christmas and Love for the New Year.
-Cicely Suite Cain

Miles is allergic.

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

Miles just spent the last two hours crying and holding his tummy until he discarded about a gallon of his insides- projectile style.

I must be getting lax in what I am letting him eat- although, I don't know where we went wrong.

I have sadness in my heart and in my eyes.

I lost weight.

2009-12-08T20:42:00.000-08:00

I hosted two Biggest Loser Blogs and through these competition I have 25 lbs and over 24 inches!

I'm really proud of myself and I wanted to share it with you.

Loves.
-Cicely

So Proud of my Baby.

2009-12-07T05:03:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was fast and testimony meeting Sunday- which for those of you that don't know means that there is a portion of our church time that is spent sharing our testimonies of the gospel (this is done at a podium in front of the congregation).

At the beginning of the meeting I felt the shimmy-shakes in my heart and which told me that I needed to get up there- my intent was to ignore the shimmy-shakes.

Then, one of Miles' best friends got up and bore his testimony. He is three. Miles was so excited to see him up there and he asked if he could go too. We talked about why you go up and asked him what he wanted to say. He told me that he was going to say "I love my family and I'm thankful for baby Jesus." He didn't tell me what else he was planning to say...

We got up there and he was all smiley and cute and then...

"I love my family."

Pause. Help from Mommy.

"I love Baby Jesus. Oh, and I love Books. Yeah, I love Books.

(Indiscrimanate mumbles... maybe about the temple?. maybe about breakfast. We aren't quite sure.)

"Gsbdyufsnkdjfbshd. Jesus Christ, Amen."

I was so proud of him! When he was done- I bore my testimony, and then Miles said

"I want to say one more word, okay?"

I thought it was going to be about church or family or nursery. But, instead, it was this...

"I love trees too."

So- even though he is really young and he didn't say the standard "bare your testimony" words, I was so proud of him. He wanted to share with us and he wasn't shy.

Good work little man. You inspired me.

I'm so gross.

2009-12-02T06:27:00.000-08:00

Faye woke up at midnight to play until 2 in the AM. I am so tired and cranky and cold. Miles just sneezed and a bit of clear snot came out. Instead of crawling out from under my warmth I got it with my thumb and pointer and rubbed the nast on my blanket.

And now I have to wash the blanket and have just created way more work for myself.

Sigh.

it takes H1 to kNow 1

2009-11-07T06:29:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure that David and I had the swine flu. or not. But all the time we were sick- neither of my kids showed any signs of problems. Until now.

Faye is sick. Really sick. She is hardly eating and I'm sure she has a temp because she is really hot to the the touch, but my thermometer is broken- so I don't know how high her fever is.

David has a PBL test coming up which, for some reason, means that one of my kids will be spending time at the hosptial no doubt. It happens that way EVERY PBL test unless my mom is here and seeing as how she is on a boat heading for the Galapagos Islands for three weeks I'm doubting she will be able to make it.

So- what do I do? The doctor's office is closed until Monday. I really don't want to go to the ER. Given her history, I don't know if I am okay with waiting until Monday to do something about it.

Any ideas? Any thermometers that can be burned after using?

Too cool

2009-11-05T19:57:00.000-08:00

So today I went to Ikea- which as cool as that is- isn't the coolest thing that happened to me. You be the judge:

I saw a joker hat and put it on my head and turned to Miles

Me: What do you think?

Miles: Not cool.

Touche, my son. Not bad.