Happy Birthday Buster Brown!

Four years ago, my favorite little boy came into the world- early. He is the only Foley who successfully managed to be early for basically anything, so while birth is momentous enough, "early" deserves equal recognition. Here are some of those pictures from his first month of life. I love the stocking one because when I was born, they gave me to my mom in a stocking instead of a receiving blanket. I had heard that growing up, so it was fun to go into the NICU one morning and have him in one too.




Leavenworth- To celebrate his 4th birthday, we decided to do a "surprise" weekend with the kids. I packed clothes, Brevik's Cars sleeping bag, snacks galore, and winter clothes for a weekend adventure in Leavenworth. Brevik was filled with enthusiasm the entire drive, wondering where we were going and what we were going to be doing, particularly when he spied his sleeping bag. "I can't believe we are going to have a sleepover somewhere!"
Maelee, on the otherhand, was true to her usual antics and threw up the moment we parked the car in Leavenworth. We were prepared with towels and other clean-up gear as she does this on EVERY trip now. I'm making a note to talk to her pediatrician about car sickness...
We walked through the Bavarian town and enjoyed the lights, carolers, sledding, and other festivities. Brevik loved the "Christmas party." Maelee enjoyed looking at everything in awe. We had cake for dessert, saw good friends, and had one of my favorite weekends as a family to date. On the ride home, I told Mandon that it was one of those trips that I imagine I will still be fondly recollecting 20 years from now.

I'm a Workin' Mama

It's official- I'm back into the working world where it's inappropriately childish to make poop jokes, have frequent snacks, and ask colleagues if their lunch is yummy. I cannot skip showering, stay in my mom-sweats until noon (while being productive, mind you), or watch Ellen. Instead, I am frantically getting 2 kids and myself ready in the morning, attempting to get out the door unscathed. After 2 weeks, here is what I have to report to you:
Maelee took awhile to warm to her "teachers" and "classmates." The feedback from her experience after day one was, "Wow, she's feisty. You can tell she has a brother because she won't let anyone take anything from her." Day two was, "She sure is interesting, isn't she?" Then, "What a tomboy!" "We had a really hard time keeping Maelee's clothes on her today. She just kept taking them off." And then finally something positive, "I sure like holding her because she will cuddle with me."
It is no surprise that it took Mae a bit to open up. She is not called "High-Maintenance Maelee" for nothing, after all. I find it quite cute that she held her ground until she realized her position wasn't going to change- she is stuck in "school" for the time being, and likely, for the next 20 years.
Brevik has developed a new self-consciousness. Thinking that I am the best mom in the world, I enclosed a cute note to Brevik in his lunch. When he got home, I asked if he saw it, thinking he would jump up and hug and kiss me, tell me what a wonderful mom I am, and basically give any other affirmation I needed. Instead, he said, "Yeah, but I had to hide the note Mom. I don't want my friends to make fun of me." HE IS 3!!!! I expected this a little later, but was mortified that it's happening at this point!
As for my transition- it went swimmingly. I think that adult time and interaction was overdue for me. I've been able to attend networking events, done good office time, and helped get Mandon a little more organized. I think this arrangement is going to work out just fine...

Mom of the Month Award Goes to...

I have thrice proven my stunning mothering skills this past month and felt it necessary to share.
First, I was finally on a much awaited play date with one of my best friends (Julie) and her two boys while in Idaho Falls. We set a blanket on the ground, unpacked our lunches and started chatting at Tautphaus park. The 3 year olds, Brevik and Bo quickly ate and then began playing on the Big Toy. Brevik, of course, then decided to take off his flip-flops in the sandbox. Upon deciding that the slide would be more appealing, he walked out of the sandbox in his piggie toes (as we call bare feet) ACROSS THE SCORCHING HOT PAVEMENT!! I stood stunned as he screamed and ran across the playground. He literally looked like he was running across lava. Luckily, Julie reacted and ran after him and lifted him from the pavement. He screamed for 40 minutes as his skin continued to sizzle and I finally reacted and treated him. As we left the park, I self-consciously glanced at the other kids' footwear, and to my credit, he most definitely was not the only ones in flip-flops. Perhaps their mothers' would have given more of an initial reaction, but that's guesswork. The prognosis- 2nd degree burns on both feet and a sub par mother!
Second, Brevik took one of Mandon's ADD pills- yes an amphetamine, yes a narcotic. He took it at about 10pm. I promptly called Poison Control. Although he had not consumed a toxic amount, Brevik was awake ALL NIGHT. He watched infomercials attentively, cried when I tried to change the channel, and told me repeatedly as if he were drugged, "I love you Mom." Thankfully, he only took one pill. Funny enough, this Aderall generic is a small blue pill. He proceeded to tell friends that he had taken "Daddy's little blue pill." Mandon was quick to elaborate; I was not. :)
Finally, Brevik tried to stomp a yellow-jacket nest. In turn, he received 3 bee stings to the Achilles heel. We were swatting them away and had to run with Brevik away from them.
Maelee certainly is appearing angelic right now. Terrible 2's around the corner...

Happy Anniversary!

Happy Anniversary to us!

Sometimes it's the goofy parts of our marriage that I most appreciate. Sometimes my loving husband abuses that. I fell asleep on the couch last night as I do any other ordinary night when there is a movie on the screen. After midnight, Mandon wakes me. He has gotten out his mummy sleepingbag and is entirely inside it, with only his baby blues peaking at me. My first thought was that there was a whale in the living room- I jumped and squealed. Mind you, I had been sleeping... Then in my late night delerium I laughed hysterically. I headed up to bed and started laughing again. I was almost asleep and then I was laughing again. And here I am today, laughing more. It was so random- most would have likely scorned at his immaturity. That is exactly why he is perfect for me. I thought it was genius, it was unexpected, it was simple, and it was totally us. Here's to many more years!

The kids and I made Mandon a cake. We put a '4' candle in it since it is our 4th anniversary. Assumingly it will get reused on Brevik's birthday this year! :)

A Smorgasbord of Details

Due to the fact that I rarely post anything, this is going to be a smorgasbord of information.

Here is Maelee wearing The Strangers hat. They play music at small bars around here. Mandon has gotten to play a few times with them, which he enjoys.


I recently posted that I had never been able to park my car in our garage. Low and behold, Mandon took Memorial Day weekend entirely off (yes 3 days!) and I can officially park in our garage. Once Blue Steel was parked, I peaked a few times just to look at it. Someone pinch me! I must be dreaming...

Yesterday, I slept in since until 8ish since I had been up all night with Maelee. Maelee did not want to sleep- I think it's because she is finally talking some and she wanted to practice. She even said "Holly" the other day- first non-family member's name she has clearly said. Anyhow, we were literally up until 4 am and she just chatted the night away. Although it was very cute, I was very tired!!! In the early morning, I turned cartoons on for Brevik and went back to sleep. When I woke, he was in pajama bottoms (no top), had used an excessive amount of gel to give himself "spikeys", and had proudly given Bentley way more dog treats than he should have been able to handle. He also put a biscuit in the watering can and told me that he thought it would be fun to watch Bentley get it out- Bentley was unable to get it. The noise of him trying is the ruckus that woke me with a start!

This is what Brevik looks like when he does his hair. Too cute!

Mae on our walk to the ocean to collect seashells. She had to bring her stuffed dog...

And Buster hamming it up...


That's all for now!

Our Mini-Vacation at Suncadia

I was filled with anticipation for our family weekend in Suncadia. I packed ahead of time (shocking, right?). I looked up the weather. I talked incessantly about the family fun we were going to have. For the most part, I was correct in assuming the wonderful time ahead. However, it did not start off as well as I had hoped.
Following checking into the hotel, Mandon went to his meetings. The kids and I went to our room to unpack and prepare for our day without Daddy. Maelee seemed particularly warm. She had a 103 degree fever that sent me into a frenzy! I immediately headed to the truck, stopping momentarily to ask the concierge where the nearest doctor was located. I do not ever drive Mandon's truck, but a fever gave me probable cause to do so- the adventure had begun. A few minutes into the drive, Maelee threw up all over his truck. Enough said about that not-so-minor detail. After not finding my destination (the town has 3 stop lights, how could I be lost?!), I called Lauren and she texted me directions and even a picture of a map so that I could determine my route (thanks so much Lauren!). We arrive, Maelee clothesless at this point and me feeling quite unsavy, to find out she merely has fluid in her ear- a classic ear infection. I miss the entire convention dinner and awards ceremony, instead spending time with my sick babe in our hotel room.
It is bittersweet- I love being able to provide the sole comfort for my little princess. I am happy I was able to hold her, wipe hear tears, and make her feel secure despite feeling ill. However, I was disappointed to miss Mandon's unanticipated award and his impromptu moment on stage. I must admit, knowing that nobody can make Mae feel as good as I can is a good feeling though.
Saturday, we had a much better day. We started the day with a family bike ride. Maelee was feeling better with antibiotics in her system. There are the most amazing trails there! Brevik really wanted to find a playground. We gave him no promises, but by happenstance rode directly to one of the neatest playgrounds we have ever frequented. Following big toy playtime, I told Mandon that I wanted to keep going further to get more exercise. Besides, how much further could the loop go?! Less than halfway through this extra loop, my legs burned, my confidence dwindled, and my pride suffered- I regretted making the exercise comment at all and Mandon playfully held it against me for the remainder (the long remainder) of our ride.
Saturday evening we had a babysitter for the kids while we enjoyed dinner with Mandon's district. It was fun to have some husband/wife time with some of our wonderful friends. I again have an admission though- my favorite part of a date night is often going back to the kids. They get so excited to see us and we feel more refreshed which makes a great combination. Upon getting the kids, we had fun with the Lambs and were able to watch the kids all play together well into the night.
Sunday was good too- I went to the spa for a pedicure while Mandon swam with the kids. Mae donned her first bikini and was absolutely adorable. While I was getting my paraffin treatment, a glass of champagne in my hand and a book in the other, I couldn't help but forget some of the reality that awaited me later in the day. For that moment, it was about me, the book I was reading, and my incredibly happy feet. It was a nice break.
Now we are all home- Maelee sleeping on Mandon, me on the couch next to them, Brevik up in his own bad. Our mini-vacation may be over, but I am confident that we will all have wonderful memories from our little weekend away.

Flurry of Activity

As many now know, I have temporarily opted out of making plans. I was becoming too stressed trying to accomodate my plans when my childrens' attitudes weren't the least bit becoming. It's been a bit of a relief but I think I may have promted some unwarranted worry from friends. Everything is fine; it's just me!
This new spontenaitey (that's what I'm calling my no planning resolution) allowed a very enjoyable last week. On Sunday, we had quite the busy day- church, insurance appointments, Costco, riding bikes, barbecuing, and guitar playing. Mandon pulled Brevik behind his bike and I had Maelee in front of me in a baby seat. We rode down to the junior high and let the kids play on the big toy, went through the neighborhoods and headed home. After having to dismount our bikes and walk them a couple of times for the ever-so-slight inclines, Mandon and I realized something: We are both in dire need of physical activity. Who knew we were so out of shape?! Nothing that says is louder than WALKING YOUR BIKE as traffic passes with passengers giving quizzical looks!!! It was a lot of fun though and the kids really liked it. Perfect family activity!
This weekend we have the annual Spring Convention for Mandon's work. Brevik is really excited to stay in a hotel. He's been talking about it all week when he's not busy pretending he's a dragon or anything else weird. I was trying so hard to make our monsters "tickle monsters" but he has other plans. I suppose it'll be better for him socially in the long run. Chasing other boys claiming he's the tickle monster at school recess just wouldn't be cool enough- I can just hope a fire breathing dragon is...
As for the pictures, rest assured that I have since gotten Brevik a much needed haircut.

Tonight's Gonna Be a Good, Good Night

We had a wonderful evening of togetherness tonight. We started out by playing the "Ewww-Ewww" song- Mandon on the guitar while the kids and I danced. It was one of those moments where I actually hoped the neighbors could see us through the window. (We have so many other moments where I really hope they aren't looking!)Maelee's little dance moves are cuter than ever. She has finally mastered spinning in a circle, her tongue out in all its glory. Brevik tries to break dance and is proud when he spins on the floor or puts his head on the ground with one foot up. Enthusiatically, I cheer them both on, continue doing my own mastered moves (waxin' anybody?), and pray that I am a good enough mother to get the kids professional dance lessons in years to come.
After putting my darling angel to sleep, Brevik and I cuddled on the couch for settle-down time. It's my way of bribing him to snuggle up to me without the usual distractions (and there are oh-so-many) that may draw the attention of a 3 year old. He gets to avoid his bed as long as he stays in my arms... I had a moment where I looked down at him in disbelief- he really is getting so much bigger. I remember when I could comfortably be his pillow. His little body would find a way to so perfectly align against mine like only a mother and child can know. Now, he was propping a pillow to the side of us to get comfortable together. When he fell asleep in my arms, my mind fragmented and I could see all of the points in his life that he's slept against me- The tiny premature baby only 4 pounds lost in my arms; the babbling baby, looking fondly into my eyes; the young toddler restless in my arms wanting to explore his newfound motion; the squirmy 2 year old; and now my independent preschooler. It truley happens in a flash. As I starred at his sleeping face- perpiration creeping across his brow line, I had a vision of him at 8, 14, and older. It was frightening, even exhilirating. Within a blink of my eye, he was back to my sweet 3 year old lost in his dreams. I held him a little tighter, feeling entirely blessed to have him in my arms, and eventually carried him to his Cars bed. I gazed over at Mae in her round princess crib, smiled, and went back down to Mandon and couldn't help but think that tonight was a good, good night.

Mi-Lo

I feel like I should share one of the highlights of the trip- it really had nothing to do with Sydney, but rather the mission we were on to get random pictures of another agent Tim- in Flat Stanley form. We were in hysterics almost everytime we pulled his picture out. We called him Mi-Lo (short for mini Tim Lopez) and tried to get some good pics whenever possible while not letting him see what we were up to. At one point, someone (not with us) said "Bin Laden" when were were holding up the pic. Again, I have no idea why, but we found it all to be quite funny. Mi-Lo saw lots of Sydney and in the end was basically a local.

Down Under

Mandon and I had an excellent time in Sydney together. In some ways, this trip felt like a 2nd honeymoon. We loved the city, the beach and the company of many of our friends from AmFam. Of course, we missed our little ones, but it was nice to put all of our playful energy toward each other rather than toward the kids for a week. Don't get me wrong, "Thomas took the shortcut" and "Mr Conductor fell down" and "Peanut butter and pickles" are all funny parts of my everday life, but I managed just fine in the company of other adults. Only once did Mandon have to put me in line- he asked me to quit asking if things are "yummy" because he doesn't think that it is an everyday adult adjective. Whatever... :)

A day at the mall- Brevik posing for the camera, Mae looking away!

Preschool Open House

Brevik has suddenly become fascinated with people's bodies. Curious, yes. Inappropriate, definitely. I will not use any names should his "victims" be reading this...
We attended our first open house for a preschool this week. The room was utterly silent when Brevik looked over at a 2nd grader, who happened to be the son of the lady in charge of the entire program. "Does that boy have a baby in his tummy?!" Brevik shouted, scrutinizing the geeky and overweight young boy. A few mothers looked my way, judgement striking me from their glances. I had to quickly respond. "Honey, it's just the way he's standing," I quipped (lied). Realistically, the boy could have been doing a handstand and Brevik would have legitimately asked the same question. I, of course, turned an unnatural shade of red and pretended to continue listening.
Attending this open house was an interesting experience for me. Walking into the event, I was struck with disbelief. I have a child who will be starting preschool. In the same moment that I was feeling old, I quickly felt young again looking at other mothers who clearly had more experience in years than myself. Maelee on my hip and Brevik holding my hand, we continued in and found our seats.
In the end, it was a good experience and seemed like a good preschool. I'm excited for this next adventure ahead. Brevik is ready to learn from someone other than myself and Mae will likely be excited to have time without him stealing the spotlight.

Retrospecting Words

I have decided to enter the blogosphere... Too often I have imagined how the events in my life would read in my yet-to-exist blog. I think of all the opportunities I have missed sharing, thus here is a little retrospection. I have decided to focus on the funny things my son says..
Brevik called Jesus a "poo poo butt." Can you imagine what the neighbors thought as my sweet little 2 year old was yelling at the top of his lungs, "Jesus is a poo-poo butt! Poo-poo butt Jesus, poo-poo butt!!!" We were the neighborhood heathens.
When Brevik first began talking, he would ask everyone, "Are you happy?" It was his first question he learned to ask. It certainly surprised people when his little voice presented such a question.
Now at 3 years old, the first question he asks at every single house we go to is, "Can I see your garage?" We are not sure where this obsession with the Man Cave originates, particularly since the unfortunate state of our garage has been more of a storage unit for all 3 years of his life. If you see him, he will ask though. And, more importantly, he will expect to see it!
Finally, the last Brevikism for today- When we were in Idaho for Christmas, Uncle Ryno and Brevik were enjoying some hot fa-fa (hot chocolate for those of you who don't know fa-fa). Brevik said, "May I please have a dollop of cool whip?" I think it's the toddler voice on these unexpected sentences that strikes me. It's entertaining that he has a personality at such a young age. I guess before entering Motherhood (and despite my degree in psychology), I thought that personalities emerged much later- like in elementary school or maybe even junior high. Obviously, I've been proven otherwise.