{ Ethingtons }

December 2011

2011-12-26T02:48:00.000-07:00

Sunny days at the park and beach

Seeing the Burj Khalifa and fountain show at night

Playing in the sand

Cutting out paper snowflakes

All dressed up for a party

Close up of our 4 foot Christmas tree :)

Hand-stitched Arabian tapestry that I'm using as a tree skirt

A little hallway glam

Christmas morning - playing with the new train

Our Christmas tree - Photo by Richard

Christmas day pizza party with friends

Liam and Elizabeth (both 18 months)

Shoni and Catherine (32 weeks pregnant)

Catherine and Richard - Christmas 2011

UAE decorated in lights to celebrate National Day

Having a blast with good friends Julianne and Weston while they visited

Happy Birthday Richard!

2011-12-20T22:59:00.000-07:00

We LOVE you!

-Catherine, Elizabeth, and baby boy

Elizabeth at 18 months

2011-12-16T10:48:00.001-07:00

Her vocal development is really progressing, she is talking a ton. She repeats the last word of many sentences I say. Now that she can communicate more easily she is no longer screaming all of time, and I'm so grateful for that. :)

She can kind of count to 10 by herself, although the number 4 is tricky for her.

Sings the ABC's - about one third of the letters are recognizable

Can identify a few colors - yellow, red, pink, green, white, and sometimes blue

Often shakes her head and says no no no no in rapid succession (learned that from Daddy :)

Gives me kisses and hugs unprompted :) Blows kisses and waves hello to strangers.

I have to convince her to let me do many things lately, like change her diaper or sit in her high chair. But if I talk her though what we are doing, then it goes well.

Likes eating popcicles, pasta, granny smith apples, and dried berries. Likes to eat with a fork and spoon like the adults do, and she's quite good at it.

Has switched from being a Daddy's girl to being super clingy to me. Does not like to be held by anyone other than Mommy, Daddy, or Papa (much to the chagrin of her Mommy with a big pregnant belly)

Loves music, to sing, and to dance. Bobs her head and closes her eyes when she hears a good beat.

Loves jewelry and will say, "Pitty neckass, pitty bacelet," (pretty necklace, pretty bracelet)

Likes to take her baths with the shower on too, raining down over her head. Then she'll lay on her stomach and kick her feet back and forth into the stream of water.

Has loved having so many visitors stay with us this month. First one of my best friends Julianne and her husband. Then the next day our brother-in-law Travis and his 3 boys. Just today she asked for Weston and Julianne.

Knows her name and says it, "Libazeth."

When we say prayers together at night, I tell her what to say and she repeats it. Part of that is praying for baby brother. Now she has learned to point to my belly when she talks about baby brother.

Richard and I have had a busy month with touring visitors around and Richard has been out of town a lot with work. Although it's not easy to take care of our active toddler alone while being 30 weeks pregnant, I'm so glad that I can stay home with her and have her as my little buddy.

Sri Lanka

2011-11-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

This happy moment was captured last week while on our latest adventure in Sri Lanka.

Although it was very difficult to travel in a third world country with a toddler while being 6 months pregnant, it was a great experience and I'm glad we went. It ended up being more of a trip than a vacation, but it was bliss just to be together as a family.

Sweetie pie here learned how to sleep anywhere on this trip. We really pushed her and so she would conk out anywhere. This is on Richard's lap on the Express train to Hikkaduwa from Colombo.

It rained off and on throughout the trip. For the most part we were glad for the storms to keep us feeling cool. Except for on our drive to Sigariya - that was a torrential downpour and I thought we would be washed away. Awesome though because we kind of love rain storms. :)

This view was taken from the deck of the Beach House we stayed at in Hikkaduwa called Neela's.

Elizabeth deep in a curious thought at the Galle Dutch Fort in the South

Richard, Elizabeth, Catherine, and baby boy with the Sigariya Rock in the background. Hotel Sigariya was very nice and felt like a jungle hide-a-way with excellent food.

Elizabeth was so into the sand - the texture between her toes, pouring it through her hands, and watching it get wet from the waves. I loved watching and seeing through her eyes the discovery of it all.

The Buddhist people brought these gorgeous flowers to the temples as part of their worship. They would arrange them in rows at the base of the Buddha statues.

Elizabeth 16 months in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

Richard and I kept commenting to each other throughout the trip how we felt like we were in the middle of a set of an old period movie. Especially at the train station or when we say awesome things like these cars.

Richard (and Elizabeth peeking out) with Monk Students

Local Fisherman

Inside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a most important Buddhist Temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It houses the Relic of the tooth of Buddha! :) This is a world heritage site and Buddhists believe that making the journey to visit this temple brings greater Karma than any other place.

Street view from our room in Kandy, Casamara Hotel. It was a small and basic room but clean and reasonably priced. The location was ideal and we walked to everything.

Richard took this at the top of Sigariya Rock after hiking up 3,000 steps with Elizabeth in a backpack. It was really steep and rigorous so I didn't join them for this one.

The train schedule

We hiked this mountain in Dambulla to the Temple in the Rock and it was amazing. There are several caves here, each with dozens of large Buddha statues and colorful murals.

We visited a turtle sanctuary/hatchery and got to touch turtles of all ages, even one day old babies crawling out of the sand!

The people were all fascinated with Elizabeth. I guess they don't make many blonde babies around there. Here she is about to kiss this darling little boy we met.

17 months

2011-11-19T11:46:00.000-07:00

Is this cute or what?! Just look at those matching cheesy grins. :)

Elizabeth is very vocal and very active. I have a few friends here with toddlers the same age and it's always a blast to have them play together but also interesting to see the differences in development.

Right now I am loving her sense of humor. She is full of silly faces and mischievous looks. We giggle and tease each other a lot and she also does this low chortle laugh that is so contagious.

She says the ABC's with me. I say one and she repeats it. Also, she loves it when we sing the song. Dang cute. She is kind of obsessed with the letter f and has to say that one at least 7 times before moving on. She is also trying to count to 10. When she thinks I'm not listening I've heard her say it by herself, but she gets stage fright when I ask her to do it.

She is tall and slender, but deceptively strong and loves to climb everything. The other day she did a pull up, seriously. She is one of those active kids that will always have a bump or a bruise from being so active.

Right now she's getting her molars and this round of teething is making her so moody. Poor little thing must be really hurting. What's hurting me are the tantrums that have arrived with the teething. I think it's a combination of the teething and the age, but we're talking "rolling on the floor, scream it out" episodes. Yeesh.

She hasn't been the best eater these days, which also might have to do with her age and teething. Her favorite thing right now is green apples. When she is about to eat something she's excited about she gives out a low oooooh laugh.

She has learned new things that keep me on my toes like opening doors, twisting a cap off of a bottle, putting random things in the garbage - fun stuff like that.

She loves to dance to anything that resembles music by bouncing her knees, swaying, clapping, picking up the sides of her skirt and twirling. She does a fast feet dance when she's happy and ready to go outside.

She is very clingy and needs lots of cuddles, but I like the cuddles because she's never really been that into snuggling up.

She is friendly and likes to wave to strangers. Walking down the street or riding an escalator, she loves the get someone's attention and make a quick connection with a smile.

We love this cheeky little monkey!

26 weeks pregnant with baby boy!

It's a ...

2011-10-24T23:36:00.000-06:00

BOY!

I am 22 weeks pregnant with a baby boy, due February 24th!

Al Ain Getaway

2011-10-17T12:11:00.000-06:00

Richard had business and we tagged along so that I could go to my old Dentist and to my favorite tailor. Quality dental care + custom clothing = worth the drive.

We had a good time as a family at the pool, too. Elizabeth was very vocal about not wanting to wear her swim suit or the floaty she usually sits in. She insisted on wading in and out of the pool all by her self. I was hovering over hoping her next step wouldn't be a slip or plunge into the water. Richards reaction was to get her to like her floaty again by taking her down the water slide in it. I thought that meant together. I waited at the bottom and then came our baby, zooming around the corner by herself, grinning ear to ear. I caught her just as she landed in the pool and we both busted up laughing!

Elizabeth's Room

2011-10-08T21:40:00.001-06:00

With this second little one on the way, things might get changed up a bit. So I wanted to capture what the nursery looks like right now. We tried to keep it rather minimal but with a few touches that really make it feel special to us.

Crib- IKEA
Bedding- IKEA
Fleece Polka Blanket {gift from friend Anne!}
Silky Blanket {gift from friend Heidi}
Frames- IKEA
ABC Art- Made by me
Wool Ikat rug- IKEA
Dresser- IKEA
Silk Indian rug on wall- Global Village {local market}
Chairs- used & reupholstered
Wooden Elephants- {friend Raji brought them from India for us!}
Elephant Mobile- Global Village {local market}
Fabric box- made by me
Ruler Growth Chart- Etsy vendor KimsSister
Pillows- local Tailor
Baskets- IKEA
Lighting- IKEA
Changing Pad- Mothercare
Curtains- IKEA

2011-10-06T11:12:00.000-06:00

too cool for school in these shades

Oakley with the Ethingtons

Cuddles with Grandma

Richard, DeAnn, and Harold mowing the Thorntons lawn

ice cream face

Richard rappelling

loving on my only hours old nephew, Georgie

learning how to smile on cue

Summer

2011-10-03T11:12:00.000-06:00

helping mommy pack

At Log Haven to enjoy Adri and Matt's beautiful wedding

Midway, UT

24th of July Parade

Morning walks with Barb and Charlie

Running on grass for the first time

Hiking up Big Cottonwood Canyon

High Five

Ethington cookouts

Tyler and E, just look at those faces!

Sleepovers on the trampoline with uncle Mike

Grandpa Harold's ride "Truck"

Caught holding hands with Charlie

Loving her "dancing skirt" from Grandma DeAnn

little friends

2011-09-29T23:02:00.000-06:00

smooch

Elizabeth and Harvey

While in Utah, I got to catch up with a dear friend that I've known since I was five. We lived on the same street just a few houses away and we played together everyday. After a few moves, we reconnected in collage and became close just like when we were kids.

Spending with time with one of my besties is even better now that our little ones are friends too!

Thanks Rachel for the playdate!

Spencer Family - July 2011

2011-09-26T01:45:00.000-06:00

Photos by: Janette Soffe

Lily Spencer, Charlie Thornton, Sam Spencer, Elizabeth Ethington

Richard and Catherine Ethington, Kerry and Steve Spencer, Barb and John Thornton, Mark and Beverly Spencer

and it was good

2011-09-21T03:52:00.000-06:00

Carol, Ngoc, me, Shoni, Bonita

Ever have to get across town in a hurry and make every single green light? I just did! Ha ha, it was magic! Seriously, at least 12 intersections.

Other happiness... after 8 days with a migraine, I am headache free today! It feels so good to feel good, I want to climb a mountain, or maybe a sand hill. :)

Elizabeth is transitioning from two to one nap a day well and still sleeping about 11 hours at night. Yes.

Stayed out too late for my sleepy self but had a blast with some girlfriends last night. See above photo. We ate yummy over-priced food, laughed about whatever, and felt fancy just for being out together.

And the best news of all to share is that I have a new nephew! Welcome to the darling George Spencer Thornton and congrats to Barb and Johnny!

p.s. It was the most amazing birth story I've ever heard.

Toddler in the Terminal

2011-09-19T03:05:00.000-06:00

Elizabeth 14 months, Chicago airport

This is what we came up with to save my back from the hours and hours walking through airports. Cute right? Easy, fast, made strangers stop and smile, and E loved it.

After 8 wonderful weeks in SLC, coming back to the UAE was difficult. Even with the comforts of my own bed and space, it felt strange. I had become so comfortable being with family every day, popping over to see a friend, eating American food, and enjoying the beautiful weather.

Elizabeth didn't remember our apartment at first (except for her crib which she got very excited about). The kitchen and bathrooms have a small step in the doorway that she kept tripping over. For two days we kept hearing the SMACK onto the tile floor, ouch. We showed her to be careful of them and she's starting to remember.

The flight is the first thing people ask about. It went as well as can be expected. Keeping in mind that I have traveled across the world with her 4 times now, my perspective may be a little... different. So, it was hard, very hard. But it always is and she did well. She slept off and on for about 6 hours on the long flight, and never had any meltdowns. Honestly, I think the journey was harder on me. Within 24 hours we went through 3 airports, 3 times through security, with 8 bags and a stroller, a 5 hour layover, 21 hours of flight time, a toddler, and I'm 4 months pregnant! After lifting bags and a baby, and walking, standing, sitting for that long, my body was shutting down. That night I was blissfully giggling to myself when I got to lay down in my bed that night. Thank goodness Richard was with us, it would have been impossible without that stud of a man.

So, did you catch that little news drop? I am 17 weeks pregnant, we are expecting baby # 2 in February!

Darling Elizabeth is very vocal these days. She is trying to talk and often screams too. She also tries to repeat things we say, even if it's a funny sound like a yelp. She is communicating a lot more.

She says: no, yes, up, down, please, uh oh, book, shoe, nose, baby, cheese, chicken, Mama, Dada, Papa, Gma, help, toes, ni ni (night), eh hoo (thank you).

She loves: babies, baby dolls, olives, turkey, Starburst candy, animals, and Dada.

She eats: Her new love is tomatoes, but eggs, oatmeal, cheese, broccoli, peas, beans, crackers, and raisins are all still favorites. She loves using a fork to eat and it still surprises me she does with it, and she prefers an adult size fork, if you please.

Music is a big deal for her. It calms her or makes her happy and she sings along. She especially loves it when we sing to her. She is so cute whenever any kind of music comes on because she stops whatever she's doing and starts dancing, which looks like bouncing from the knees, fast feet, and twirling.

It's still quite hot here, so we like to go on walks through the cool halls of the huge malls. For Elizabeth, it's more like sprinting the entire time. She laughs and laughs as she cruises farther ahead, she's getting fast too!

She is good at folding her arms as soon as we say, "Let's say a prayer." She keeps them folded to the end, and then sometimes wispers, "Ahmeh," for Amen. I usually start laughing from the cuteness.

The UAE keeps me busy in different ways than America. I am falling back into my roles here, getting back to church callings, getting in touch with friends, and making doctor appointments. Fighting for a parking spot, and feeling at home.

12 months of Elizabeth

2011-06-21T14:00:00.000-06:00

one

two

three

four (photo by miesh photography)

five

six

seven

eight

nine

ten

eleven

twelve

1st Birthday Party

2011-06-18T10:08:00.000-06:00

Highlights:

Making the decorations out of pink and yellow plastic bags! Eco-friendly and free. :)

Having the little kids color on a giant roll of paper

Seeing friends and neighbors

Birthday girl in a darling skirt made by Grandma Beverly

Teaching Elizabeth to show people how old she is by holding up her pointer finger

Elizabeth being shy and clingy while all the people were around and then all smiles and jibber-jabber once they leave.

The cheering at the end of her Happy Birthday song made her start bawling - this is classic E. She gets startled easily by loud noises. :)

Birthday girl in love once she discovered a slinky

Menu:

turkey and cheddar sliders

fruit kabobs

veggie cups

caprese sticks (mozzarella, tomato, basil)

caramels

grapefruit cupcakes

strawberry/lemon cake

*all homemade ;)

Guests:

Mark and Beverly (Grandpa and Grandma)

Matthew, Rhonda, and Tim

Jack, Rachel, Ruby, and Fiona

Dave, Jasmin, Davey, and Jack

Anil, Raji, Adam, and Aden

Steve, Ngoc, and Liam

Hoda and Samira

Deepak and Anu

Abubakar, Isha, Farzal

Camille

"Elizabeth, how old are you?"

2011-06-17T12:50:00.000-06:00

One.

Richard taught her this new trick the morning of her party. So cute.

Happy first birthday my darling Elizabeth!

Dead Sea (Jordan Side)

2011-06-13T06:14:00.001-06:00

Monday Feb 8.
Got up at sunrise and ran down to the sea before we had to hit the road. Loved the beauty and solitude. Richard waded in the sea. Off to the airport outside of Ammon. Elizabeth was an angel the entire flight. What an amazing little girl. We really pushed her this trip.

Land in Dubai and drive on to Abu Dhabi. Dinner at TGIF with Harold, Mom and Richard while Cat stayed at home to put Elizabeth to bed.

Tuesday Feb 9. Laundry. Grocery shopping at Carrefour. Harold and Mom fixed Mexican food for family including Mark and Beverly. Yummy dinner! Nice chill day.

Petra, The Treasury and The Monastery

2011-06-12T23:58:00.001-06:00

Sunday Feb 6

Bam. Here it is, the Treasury. Nice shot eh? Notice how it is free of tourists? Ya baby.

Found the most incredible bakery. Yum! Baklava and treats. Off to the ruins. $75. Worth every penny. It was better than we could have imagined. I felt like Indiana Jones with a baby. Hiked to the monastery with Richard and Mom. Felt great! Arrived in Petra about 8:30am and left at 3. Began drive to dead sea on the most incredible amazing road- a curvy decent from atop a mountain with the sun setting through the clouds!!! One of the most spectacular ever. No pictures. Crap. Arrived at dead sea and splurged on the buffet. Our best hotel on this trip. Beautiful! Mom and Richard walked around in the dark outside to check things out and the rest of us went to sleep.

All of these colors are sands found in Petra

Meeting Captain Jack Sparrow

The Monastery

Back to Jordan

2011-06-11T06:13:00.002-06:00

Saturday Feb 5.
To the border! Pretty smooth. Best taxi ride ever with a Ofer, friend of David the baker. Waiting at the other side was Kamel who took us on a wild ride up Mt Nebo. Began our drive in Jordan to Petra and the CleoPetra Hotel. Clean and friendly and cheap. Went to dinner at the Midtown Cafe for humus, chicken biryani, naan which is like pita bread. Harold thinking longingly of the Marriott up the street. :)

The Old City (Jerusalem) - Via Dolorosa, Wailing Wall, Pools of Bethesda

2011-06-10T06:10:00.002-06:00

Friday, February 4, 2011.
Moving to new place for one day. Returning car as there is no car return on the Sabbath. Raining! Raining again. Cold. Entered into the old city at the Jaffa Gate. Wow. Not what I was expecting. Maze of shops, small narrow pebble streets. Bringing the stroller was a bad idea. Spent the day searching for sites and ending up at the western wall after dinner in the outdoor mall preceding the Jaffa gate. Enjoyed father Michel Lavoie at the pools of Bethesda. Tomb of the Holy Sepulcher was a dark horrible place. Eww. Loved the Western wall and seeing all those observing the Sabbath, especially the soldiers singing and dancing in a circle.

Western Wall (Sealed) and Gethsemane

2011-06-09T06:55:00.001-06:00

BYU Jerusalem Center

2011-06-09T05:16:00.001-06:00

Garden Tomb, St. Peter of Gallicantu

2011-06-09T04:58:00.001-06:00

Thursday, February 3, 2011.
St Peter of Gallicantu, Schindler's grave. Harold laid down Nauvoo brick and dedicated grave. Mom and Harold had a money exchange mishap and took out $2000 worth of shekels - hahaha. Jerusalem center was a tour with just us and Harold played organ. Awesome! Garden of Gethsemane. Garden tomb. Back to St Peters with Cat- beautiful mosaics and explored the dungeon below. Ate the most delicious falafel from the street vender, mmmmm.

Richard's sick. Wonderful blessing by Harold, standing in for his father, W. Kent. Said the Lord was aware of him and the many good things he will accomplish. Richard would be healed to enjoy the rest of this trip. Which is good! He's amazing with directions! And we want to all be well.

Galilee, Nazareth, Mt. Tabor

2011-06-07T01:30:00.001-06:00

Wednesday Feb 2.
Notes: Passed Jericho on the way to Galilee, read scriptures at beatitudes site, Capernaum, 2000 year old ship, Nazareth, Mt Tabor- site of transfiguration. Cat sings songs for hours to keep Elizabeth from crying and with just the right timing says she'll be an only child... makes us all laugh. Mom stayed with sleeping Elizabeth while rest went to dinner up the street.

Dead Sea, Qumran, Masada

2011-06-06T02:32:00.001-06:00

Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Happy 60th birthday to Mom! Aren't we lucky to get to be with her on this big day?! We certainly thought so. Mom is so wonderful and we wanted to make her day feel special. The night before, Richard and I went to the bakery and bought 3 kinds of cake so that she could sample each. We also cut out about a million hearts. We used the old magazines in the apartment. I chose paper with pretty colors or patterns to cut from. Richard chose peoples heads. He found 4 of Pierce Brosnan - and it was hilarious! Good times. So in the morning, Mom came out and saw that we had decorated the table with hearts.

Dead Sea, Masada, Qumran. F-16's flying to the sinai peninsula and the egyptian border. This was right when all of the Egypt unrest started. These views and the history were so amazing. Even Elizabeth had a good time while she sported her bib turned rain poncho. Maybe she was just happy to get out of the car, as we all were. :)
Later we walked 2 minuets to Restobar for a yummy dinner of chicken Caesar salad and mushroom fettuccine.

11 months

2011-05-28T11:46:00.000-06:00

May 17, 2011

Isreal and Jordan!

2011-05-09T10:27:00.003-06:00

Sunday, January 30, 2011
We left at 2:30 PM to make the drive from Abu Dhabi to Dubai and make our 6:40 PM flight to Jordan. We arrived in Ammon really late, finally got through customs, and got a taxi to our Hotel, the Ibis. It was a 40 minute drive for 20 Jordanian Dinars, we rolled in around 10:30 PM. I put Elizabeth to bed while Richard and Mom walked across the street for water, bananas, oranges, pound cake for the next mornings breakfast.

Kamel

Monday, January 31, 2011
Early call to prayer. We had a good time on our Taxi drive to Allenby Bridge. Our driver, Kamel, was such a character and made us all Facebook friends on his smart phone while he drove. Jordan country side high mountainous hills to valley floor. I was surprised how mountainous and cold it was. It was beautiful driving though an area with pine trees and dense fog. Because we settled on a price before getting in, we only paid 20 Jordanian Dinar. :)

delicious hummus

It was so rainy and cold, we wore every layer we had

Next it was a shuttle to Jerusalem (200 shekel, about $50 for all of us) We flet so stranded when this bus dropped us off in the rain, with our luggage, and no idea where we were. So we called Sam. Sam was our contact for the place we stayed. We rented an apartment via Airbnb and it was so brilliant! So Sam told us the address and we found it in the King David area. We waited in a little bakery on the main level for Richard to come back with shekles (the currency) and met David who proved to be a great help to us.

fresh nan

Elizabeth bundled in towels to keep her toasty

Moved in. Went to an Israli dinner in market place. Harold ordered mixed grill but was not a fan of the chicken hearts and livers. :) Although it was rainy and cold, we explored the outdoor market a little and found some amazing bakeries. We were so tired! We were all in bed by 8:00.

Mother, I love you.

2011-05-08T03:36:00.000-06:00


(Mark, Beverly, Stephen, Barbara, Catherine)

I love this old picture, a scanned copy of an image on film.

My beautiful Mom, that darling toothy 8 year old smile, and my 18 month old sis pointing to 'her' little baby, and my Dad is blocked out by the window glare (that's his hand on Mom's shoulder).

Sure this picture was staged for a magazine article, but it still makes me feel cozy and loved.

Meeting my baby Elizabeth

Look at that coy little smile, what a character already.

Adorable but colicy, I remember those first 5 months well.

Here we are, me and my hamburger smile baby.

Being a mother is the best thing I've ever done. It has pushed me to new limits, and made me stronger. It has given me hardships, and shown me humility. It has taught me so much more what it means to love. It makes me feel endless gratitude to my parents. It makes me love my husband better and more unconditionally. It makes me grateful to God for giving me the opportunity. It is my greatest trial and blessing.

"God will yet, in days that lie somewhere ahead, bring “hope to [the] desolate heart.”As prophets have repeatedly taught from this pulpit, ultimately “no blessing shall be withheld” from the faithful, even if those blessings do not come immediately.In the meantime we rejoice that the call to nurture is not limited to our own flesh and blood."

Read more beautiful words on Motherhood here.

Making us work for it

2011-05-01T00:43:00.001-06:00

I just wanted to introduce you to our Primary class.

Catherine

Joey, Paige, Jaci, Kenna, Annie, Chloe

James, Sullivan, Kash, Davy, Justin
Alysha, Ashlyn, Arianne, Arwen

not pictured: Owen

That's right - 16.

Richard and I co-teach the 4-5 year olds and there are 16 kids in our class!

I remind myself before I walk into the room that I can do this, that by serving in this calling I am serving God, and that if I want blessings I am going to have to really try. Try to be patient, stay calm, be engaging, teach about Christ, and do all of this with love.

I also bring lots of crayons.

It's chaotic, wiggly, tiring, hilarious, sweet, frustrating, and inspiring. I always seem to learn something from these sweet little ones. Plus they're really cute, right

This Easter we...

2011-04-25T05:09:00.000-06:00

played at the park

dressed in pastels

ate chocolate

hunted for plastic eggs

made cupcakes

had bacon, eggs, and pancakes for dinner

and most importantly

expressed gratitude for the Resurrection of Jesus Christ

He is not here, for He is risen

Matthew 28:6

(the Garden Tomb in Israel)

beach day

2011-04-21T01:14:00.000-06:00

Road Trip

2011-04-19T09:22:00.000-06:00

Elizabeth and I usually accompany Richard when he goes to Dubai or Al Ain on business. We tag along for the 90 minute drive to visit friends, stores, favorite restaurants, and my tailor. :) I have yet to find a Tailor in Abu Dhabi that does the same quality work at the same price point. But I will keep looking.

Elizabeth loves it when I sit in the back with her. I entertain her with stories and snackes for a while, and then she entertains me with her latest tricks, like sucking on her big toe. yum. :)

10 months

2011-04-18T12:26:00.001-06:00

April 17, 2011

Queen Elizabeth...

loves walking while holding onto our hands

says dada to daddy!

is getting really independent with having to feed herself

squeals in delight and chimes in with a loud baaaa when we sing

has two bottom teeth

prefers water over juice any day

likes foods that are savory or tart, just like her mom

puckers her lips and says oooh when she discovers something or gets something she wants

loves looking at her reflection as well as other people in mirrors

learned how to turn around and lower herself off of the edge of the bed

is very into details and likes to explore any little changes around the house

has mastered the mid diaper change escape

loves to play with other kids

makes friends out of strangers with her easy smiles

tunes

2011-04-10T03:43:00.000-06:00

I am in desperate need of some new music with awesome beats to help me as I work my bootay off.

Please help!

What are your favorite songs for a good jogging pace?

In return, I offer you this image for your viewing enjoyment. :)

Nice to meet you too

2011-04-01T02:29:00.000-06:00

Last week while at the mall, I sat down on a bench next to a nice lady and her baby. She looked at me and went back to what she was doing. But I smiled at her and struck up conversation, asking her about her baby and mentioning how darling he is. She warmed up to me and although she barely spoke any English, we were able to engage each other and get our babies to mingle too. Her little cutie is Rahi and he's 9 months old, just like Elizabeth.

Next thing I know I meet her sister, and Auntie, and Mother. Soon their is a crowd all around us, and it consists of her entire extended family, visiting from Iran. They were all so excited to see Elizabeth, I think it was the novelty of her fair skin. I felt the pressure to get Elizabeth to smile at them, luckily she was as charming as ever. :)

They were so sweet and this became one of those moments that makes me love living here, being around people from such different places.

Miss Elizabeth

2011-03-30T12:43:00.000-06:00

has hair growing over her ears

goes crazy-happy in her jumping seat that hangs from the door frame

is really into reading lift-the-flap and touch-and-feel books

opens and closes her fingers and says baabaa to wave goodbye

cruises along furniture, crawls, pulls up and sits down while holding on

makes fishy lips and a kissing sound

delightfully inhales spaghetti noodles, cheese, oatmeal, broccoli, carrots, and water (and french fries)

is very ticklish everywhere; feet, armpits, knees, sides, and especially neck

started taking baths more than showers and is loving the water play

mimics things we do like nodding our head or making funny sounds

climbs things like couches and people

has one little tooth starting to poke through her bottom gum line

is being a stinker about taking naps due to aforementioned teething

likes to eat sand as she somersaults head first down the dune :)

9 months

2011-03-26T23:28:00.000-06:00

March 17, 2011

DeAnn & Harold Visit UAE!

2011-03-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

Photos from Al Ain

Al Ain Palace Museum (Home to Sheikh Zayed, Father of UAE)

Al Ain Oasis

DeAnn and Harold, Richard's mom and her husband, came to visit us for two weeks and we loved every second of it! We were so happy to share this amazing place with them and Elizabeth enjoyed playing with Grandma and Grandpa.

January 28, 2011
They flew in late the night before, so we hugged, chatted for a bit, and then went to bed. Friday is the sabbath over here so we piled into our Rav4 and drove the 8 minuets to church. The vacation timing worked out well as Richard and I were asked to sing a duet this day and they got be hear it. For dinner we had my parents over (they also live in Abu Dhabi) and then went for a walk on the Corniche (road along the beach). We picked up materials about Jerusalem from ward friends and worked on our upcoming tour of the Holy Land into the night.

January 29, Saturday
Day trip to Al Ain! We drove the 90 minuets each way so that we could show them where we called home for 2 years. I took Mom to the fabric shop and then to the tailor I have worked with a lot. Next we grabbed a bite at Subway (Harold's favorite) and stopped by Carrefour for an umbrella stroller. This proved to be the best investment for our trip! We checked out the Palace Museum and explored the Al Ain Oasis for the afternoon. When dinner rolled around, we took them to our favorite place to eat, Nadeem. A total dive. . . but serves the most amazing Pakistani food! Mom and Harold thought it was scary and wouldn't eat at first, but then tasted it and got over the foreign ambiance. :) Once we got back to Abu Dhabi, we finalized plans for hotels and cars in Jordan and Israel while grazing habanero almonds and dark chocolate. Good times!

colorful ham

2011-03-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

See those amazing colors on this awesome quilt? It was made in India but I got it at the souq in Dubai. I love the geometric shapes in such vivid hues! Plus I got it for a screaming deal, I'm getting good talking them down on the price.

Oh wait, I'm sorry. Are you distracted by the huge gummy grin in front of it? She's like a giant smile with arms and legs attached. We try to have plenty of mashed potatoes on hand to go with our little ham. She is just that yummy!
(she's not always giggling, bit we like to click away when she is ;)

preppy purple in print if you please

2011-03-01T10:25:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth just wanted to show you the outfit she wore today.

2011-02-24T03:32:00.000-07:00

The getting back on a schedule/sleep training is totally working.

Hazzah!

I understand that it doesn't work for everyone, but it really seems to work for us right now. (I wish I could say that for her first 5 months of life, those days were all over the place.) It was also helpful that Elizabeth was sleeping so well for a while, so I felt more confidant that we could get back there again.

Elizabeth's schedule:

7:30am - wake, nurse, solids

9:00am - nap

10:30-11:00am - wake, nurse, solids

2:00pm - nap

4:00pm - wake, nurse, solids

7:00pm - read stories, pray, pj's, nurse

7:30-7:50pm - in bed asleep

(sleeps all night, at least 11 hours!)

For the past 4 days I have been planning everything around making sure we stick to this schedule, and it has been so worth it.

Thanks for sharing in my joy about the matter, dear readers.

8 months

2011-02-21T22:36:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth turned 8 months on the 17th. She has been practicing her sitting, crawling, feeding herself, and singing. She is very skilled at rolling onto her stomach in a flash - especially if you are changing her diaper or nursing. We are getting quite creative with that.

One of my favorite things right now is going to get her in the morning. I peek around the door and see her smiling face. I just love that surprised, happy expression. I also like watching her dexterity improve as she picks up cheerios one at a time and carefully puts them into her mouth.

Daddy likes her scrunched nose face and the funny huffing sound through her nose. He also plays a game with her where he holds her out in front of him and swings her back and forth while singing, "ding dong, ding dong." It's a family favorite.

She is into exploring things while moving around on her stomach or hands and knees. She loves any kind of paper, reading stories, and putting everything into her mouth for a good chew. She is definitely teething although none are visible yet.

Her favorite thing this past month was playing with Grandma DeAnn and Grandpa Harold who came to visit! We had many adventures together as we traveled to Israel, Jordan, and all over the UAE. Elizabeth loved all the extra cuddles from them.

Elizabeth's sleeping habits were the major casualty of traveling. Because we were always on the go, I was constantly holding her, literally all day. For a few months there, she was a champ at naps and sleeping through the night. I would just lay her down and she would fall asleep without a peep. But for the past week or so, it's screaming and protest at every opportunity. So now I am working on getting us all back onto a schedule that works.

We are doing sleep training right now. Elizabeth cries in her bed while I try to distract myself with blogging. So. . . the CIO method, huh? I feel like I don't know what I am doing! Feel free to leave advice in the comments, or happy encouragement, or mail me loads of chocolate. :)

We went to the doctor yesterday just to make sure she was okay despite all of the crying. It was a good check up. Her measurements surprised me a little.

Length: 66cm 16 percentile
Weight: 6.95kg 8 percentile
Head: 43cm 8 percentile

Elizabeth is a petite little thing! I am always a little concerned that she seems so slender, but the doctor reassured me that she is proportionate and healthy. The doc watched her sit and crawl and interact with us for a little bit and then said that Elizabeth is advanced in her development. She's small but doing very well.

Happy 8 months baby Elizabeth!

For your enjoyment

2011-01-23T22:41:00.000-07:00

"Hey, thanks guys!"

Well, I was entertained.

And so were they when I took this picture.

These moments

2011-01-23T09:43:00.000-07:00

are happiness.

I love to nurse my baby, now.

It was rough for a while, yes it was.

But now, it is my favorite time of day. I cuddle her and she strokes my arm. I speak softly to her and she looks up and smiles at me. She tries to wiggle away and I guide her back.

We are together.

It's basically heaven dipped in sugar.

She needs me, and it's so nice to be needed so much.

Because I need her too. So much.

7 months

2011-01-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

January 17, 2011

I am told: that I am an angel baby, I have beautiful dimply smile
I am good at: smiling, taking naps, sitting up, sticking out my tunge, pinching skin, rolling away while getting my diaper changed, singing to myself, eating baby food, saying agooo, mama, yeee
I can: drink out of a cup better than a bottle, make raspberries, get up on my hands and knees, rock back and forth and even crawl a little when I see and iphone just out of reach
I love: engaging my reflection, kicking my legs, being carried in the bjorn, Mom's homemade rice cereal, sucking my left thumb, hanging out with Grandma and Grandpa, taking showers, watching people eat
I don't like: being scared by the blender, missing my nap during church, eating peas
At bedtime: clean diaper, long-sleeve pajamas, Mom and Dad sing to me, nurse with Mom, burp like a teenager, roll onto my stomach as soon as in the crib, cry, suck my thumb, sleep 10-11 hours
Mom: Loves to watch her discover new textures with her fingertips, tickles me, likes to cuddle while we nurse, wears extra jewelry to occupy my interest during church, tries to stay calm during the cry it out at night, and is having so much fun decorating the nursery.
Dad: Makes me laugh when he swings me like a bell, likes to prop me up on his shoulders, calls me Lovey, wears fancy ties for me to pull on, can still hold me in one hand, initiates the best dance parties
Looking forward to: more walks along the corniche, eating, crawling, Grandma DeAnn and Grandpa Harold coming to visit!


I included this one for all you trekkies out there (Steve, are you reading this?)

Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab

2011-01-09T22:11:00.001-07:00

Cousins

2011-01-09T00:20:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth liked meeting all of her Utah cousins, especially the ones closest in age.

Just look at this sweetness.

Elizabeth and Taylor

Elizabeth and Charlie

Friends and little friends

2011-01-08T10:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks SLC for reuniting me with lots of my dear dear friends. I have missed them so.

It truly did feed my soul to be with such kindred spirits.

It was so fantastic spending time with you all, even if you're not pictured. Also, those of you I didn't get to see, we ARE going to make it happen next time, because I just love your faces okay?

And thanks if I borrowed one of these photos from your blog (ahem, Natalie), you're the best. :)

Yesterday

2011-01-07T10:36:00.000-07:00

{Elizabeth lovin' the ride}

I jazzed out the door, down the elevator, passed the guard named Abbas, walked a few blocks, and hopped (or rather heaved a huge stroller) onto the bus... and we were on our way. I was on a mission to visit my friend Kera, do some window shopping, and just get out of the house via public transit.

I gave the nice bus man a Dirham coin, which is about 27 U.S. cents, to cover our fare. Not too bad, right?

Then E and I settled into the middle section of the bus, in between the "Ladies Only" seating in the front and men's area in the back. Ya, they're separate. The Lady seats are usually half full while there are always a ton of men, and when the men's seating is full, then they stand in the middle rather than sit with the Ladies.

Today I stood with them, tending to my stroller and baby inside.

As we got closer to the center of downtown the bus got more crowded, which meant more men crammed into our shared standing area, all of us maneuvering for a sure grip on a railing nearby.

Then this guy got on.

He happened to be the only other white person on the entire bus besides baby and I.

He rudely shoved his way through the people, poking shoulders and smacking his bag into knees. When he reached the first men's seat (which was occupied by a nice-enough-looking Indian man) he told him to move and he took the seat!

Maybe this guy was going to pass out if he didn't sit down right then, but I think it had more to do with the color of his skin compared to the skin color of the man sitting.

ewww.

A few people gave him a look or two, but I really hope he saw the grimace that I conjured up for him, because it was a doozie.

Don't you just hate it when you see examples like this of humans treating other humans badly?

Let's just be kind to each other, okay? :)

Anyway, we did have fun exploring the city - it was a great day out.

Beauty in Life

2011-01-03T22:49:00.000-07:00

“My dad, I still think, had the most beautiful, simple checklist for what you should do in life: Do something you really love that you would do it anyway. Do it in the most adventurous place you can do it. And make sure that it helps other people. And if you feel there’s a genuine need for it, and that through that need you can help other people, you’re home.” — Diane Sawyer

source

What I make of it is up to me

2011-01-02T23:49:00.001-07:00

Switzerland, July 2009

It's a new year, and everyone has high hopes and resolutions on the brain.

I also have a few things I'd like to work on, aspects of my life that could really use some improvement.

And to better one's self is a worthwhile pursuit.

But among all of these intense feelings of falling short and longing for something not yet attained, my thoughts are turned to a different perspective.

To an idea that the good life exists only when we stop wanting a better one.

It is the condition of savoring what is rather than longing for what could be.

I find myself itching for things, and to some extent that's good. I want to commit to waking up at 6am to exercise to better my health. Good. I also want to be super slim and look amazing in everything I put on right now! Hum, well...

This second one might be the lust for more and it's this that's draining my soul of happy contentment.

Have you noticed?

A man never earns enough.
A woman is never beautiful enough.
Clothes are never fashionable enough.
Cars are never nice enough.
Gadgets are never modern enough.
Houses are never furnished enough.
Food is never fancy enough.
Blogs are never perfect enough
Relationships are never romantic enough.
Life is never full enough.

I don't identify with this entire list, but I will admit that one or two may have rang true.

How about you?

Satisfaction comes when we step away from desire and say... This is enough.

What I have will do.

What I make of it is up to me.

December 3, 2010 - Blessing

2010-12-30T02:21:00.000-07:00

(Richard K Ethington, Elizabeth Ethington, Catherine A Spencer Ethington, Beverly G Spencer, Mark H Spencer )

Elizabeth was given a name and a blessing by Richard on our last Sabbath in Al Ain. He did a beautiful job and prepared himself to be guided by the Holy Spirit before performing this ordinance. I am grateful to him for being a worthy Priesthood holder and for the wonderful things he was able to say during that prayer.

It was nice to be able to invite those who have become dear to us, who also hold this Priesthood, to be included in the prayer circle, especially my Dad. I was touched when after the prayer, each man expressed how meaningful it was for them to be a part of it.

(John McKay, Matthew Glen, Elizabeth, Richard, Mark Spencer, Lance Ylanan)

(Richard, Elizabeth, Jonathon Penny)

Airplane in the Park

2010-12-29T03:18:00.000-07:00

(Elizabeth, screeching with delight)

The weather right now is gorgeous and we are trying to take advantage of it. Before the move we spent a Saturday at Al Jahili park in Al Ain. We plopped ourselves on a towel, ate chicken, and played with our baby.

This was her favorite game.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

2010-12-27T02:27:00.000-07:00

When Elizabeth was playing on the floor the other day, I looked over and saw this.

This is the first time she has ever just fallen asleep without a good swaddling.

I guess it was the cozy blanket, or that she had a stomach full of milk and rice. :)

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T06:47:00.000-07:00

Let it snow

2010-12-23T21:18:00.003-07:00

This is one of my favorite traditions, cutting out paper snowflakes.

Perfect to do while chatting around the tree or watching a holiday movie.

We saved these little beauties from last year. I find myself staring at them, trying to decide which one is my favorite for the day.

I'm not in love with this wardrobe, but I like it much better with these taped to it. :)

Fa la la

2010-12-22T22:42:00.004-07:00

I had so much fun wrapping presents, any excuse to be creative really, I thrive on it.

I like to use mostly reusable materials like pretty boxes, cloth ribbon, old cards, and recycled brown paper. I also save large pieces of wrapping paper and hold on to them for future use. But, I also splurge on a new roll and little details here and there just to add variety.

We are still getting settled from our recent move to Abu Dhabi, but I really wanted to still do some decorating to have a cozy Christmas. I chose a smaller tree and kept it simple with just white lights. In stead of a stand, I put it in a pot and then on a stool. I like the esthetic but it especially works due to the scale of our room.

Our sweet little nativity, carved from olive wood. Thanks to the Cooks for bringing it back from Isreal for us!

6 months

2010-12-22T11:58:00.005-07:00

December 17, 2010

Everyone says it, but now I can attest that it really does go by fast. Elizabeth is 6 months old and an absolute delight these days. That's right, the colic is gone!!! Hazaah! Seriously, this is a big deal in our world and we are grateful. The first few months were amazingly hard, but her royal cuteness is worth every bit of it.

We started her on solid food on her half year milestone. I made a mush out of cooked white rice and breast milk, and she loves it. There was no learning curve, she downed every bit of that food! Elizabeth had been getting up 2-3 times a night, but the day she ate solids became the best day of my life. She slept 11 hours that night, and the next night, and every night since! Whaaaa? Ya, life is getting pretty good right now.

A few other Elizabeth updates:

sleeps with both arms out of her swaddle
sucks on her fingers on occasion and on her thumb when falling asleep
loves to sing with Mommy and dance with Daddy
rolls from her back to her stomach easily
is ticklish and giggly
is now able to tolerate her car seat
is not a fan of the organ at church or wearing headbands
still working on sitting unassisted
wiggly and especially loves to have help standing
looks like Richard, smiles like Cat
hair is coming in lighter

5 months

2010-12-22T11:37:00.004-07:00

November 16, 2010

We took these shots right after we got back from our trip, a little bit after she turned 5 months old. You can see her starting to be able to sit up and holding onto Dumbo, her stuffed elephant.

4 months

2010-12-22T11:21:00.003-07:00

October 17th, 2010

Elizabeth turned 4 months while we were in Utah, so we don't have her in the chair.

But, these shots turned out adorable anyway. I love how she has started to smile with every muscle in her face. This was right after she woke up in the morning, isn't the best how happy they are then?

30

2010-12-20T12:47:00.002-07:00

I still like you...

a lot.

Happy birthday love of my life.

What we've been up to

2010-12-12T22:38:00.005-07:00

Flew from Salt Lake to Dubai with a 5 month old (jet lag from that was a doozie)
Elizabeth and I got sick
Elizabeth got her first ear infection
Found out we were moving to Abu Dhabi
Moved to Abu Dhabi

...all in the last few weeks!

Still no internet at our new apartment. I am writing this from the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai and Elizabeth is asleep in our room. Richard has meetings here so we tagged along. It's posh... huge private beach and right next to the iconic Burj Al Arab. I hope I actually have a minute or two to enjoy the beach, it's tough though with this little one. Her skin is so pearly white that she glows in the dark, not ideal for too much sun. Plus naps, no babysitter, etc.

But I'm still grateful to be in this lovely place.

Stay tuned for the tour of our digs once we're settled.

Finally, a decent competitor to the Canon 7D!!!

2010-11-28T10:08:00.001-07:00

Hey friends and photography enthusiasts,

This is one of the best product review videos I have seen in a long while. Now I know exactly what to get Catherine this year. Happy shopping, and Merry Christmas to all!

Canon 7D vs. Barbie Video Girl from Brandon Bloch on Vimeo.

Don't Be Mad!!!

2010-11-14T09:49:00.000-07:00

Okay friends, I know that most of you unsubscribed from our blog after that embarrassing post with video of me hyperventilating to make our little Elizabeth laugh. Well, a lot has happened since then, so hopefully I can earn back some readership with some self-degrading prose and awesome pictures of Catherine and Elizabeth. Let's start where we left off, shall we?

So it turns out that we decided to take a spontaneous trip back to Salt Lake City in the end of September. Who knew??? Nobody, really, until we got there. Surprise! We'd been cooped up in our little apartment in Al Ain during the entire summer with little E and she was ready to venture out into the world. If you can imagine, she had never been on a walk OUTSIDE until the day we arrived in Salt Lake, when I promptly introduced her to nature walking through Bonneville Golf Course. It was heaven! I think E missed the sparkle and bling of the UAE Malls, but she adjusted pretty quickly. We took advantage of the amazing Fall weather and went outside every day.

Short story, we saw lots of family, not as many friends as we would have liked, but we had a delightful time in Utah. Since one of us has a job, I high-tailed back to the Middle East after a few weeks, and Catherine has remained with Elizabeth in Utah even until now. Oh the sorrow!!! Thanks to all for the memories and we'll be back next summer for more!

Spencer Cousins! Charlie, Lily, Elizabeth, and Sam

Elizabeth's First Experience Going Outside in Cold Weather

Cousin Taylor LOVES the outdoors! Sneakin' chips and sneakin' outside. Busted!

Sometimes I get jealous of E's colorful socks. I don't think she gets jealous of my in-grown toenails

Sometimes I like to explore my Anglo Saxon roots with some red and shaggy bearded awesomeness. It's also nice to see some hair on my head every once in a while.

Catherine was not amused! :)

Johnny T and Barbara brought little Che down to our house to visit, and some random helicopter landed in our back yard. What the??? Quick. Convenient. Extravagant. How much does a helicopter cost?

Catherine and Elizabeth readying to hit the town in Style. How lucky can a guy get?

Barbara and Catherine

Halloween's over, but there's always next year, and these puppies are rain/wind/snow/hurricane/shatter/bomb proof. Scarecrow 2.0

Elizabeth kindly sharing her mobile with cousin Taylor. Taylor, next year it is on!!!

That Golden Age where big people are horsey's

Uncle Scotty holding Elizabeth for the first time!

How can you resist this face?!?!

That's all for now! I'm off to Salalah, Oman for the rest of the week. Salalah, by the way, is believed by scholars to be the "Land Bountiful" as described in 1st Nephi. I'll try to take some nifty photos. It's the Eid al Adha holiday (Islamic feast of the sacrifice) and I have the week off from work. Salaam!!!

laugh

2010-09-21T06:50:00.002-06:00

Marjorie Pay Hinckley -

2010-09-19T01:21:00.001-06:00

"We women have a lot to learn about simplifying our lives. We have to decide what is important and then move along at a pace that is comfortable for us. We have to develop the maturity to stop trying to prove something. We have to learn to be content with what we are."

"I don't want to drive up to the pearly gates in a shiny sports car, wearing beautifully, tailored clothes, my hair expertly coiffed, and with long, perfectly manicured fingernails. I want to drive up in a station wagon that has mud on the wheels from taking kids to scout camp. I want to be there with a smudge of peanut butter on my shirt from making sandwiches for a sick neighbors children.
I want to be there with a little dirt under my fingernails from helping to weed some-one's garden. I want to be there with children's sticky kisses on my cheeks and the tears of a friend on my shoulder. I want the Lord to know I was really here and that I really lived."

{thanks to Alisa's blog}

3 months

2010-09-17T01:40:00.000-06:00

* sweetie face, stinker bum, baby girl, lovie
* shows off her smile variations; dimples, open mouth, coy grin, scrunched nose
* likes be be expressive with her face
* coos and smiles when we sing together
* sleeps 7 hours at night
* can almost roll over (!)
* likes to take showers over baths
* colic continues to improve
* doesn't need to be rocked to sleep for daytime naps
* getting a bald spot on the back of her head (like her daddy :)
* 24 inches (75%)
* 12 pounds (50%)

Morning hello to Grandma... both of you!

2010-09-16T12:19:00.002-06:00

It rained for a bit

2010-09-15T05:47:00.003-06:00

I stopped everything to enjoy the moment.

I watched a video of Sir Ken Robinson on TED, he was fantastically eloquent, and funny too. His words stirred my mind and my soul. I liked that he brought up the difference between talents and passions. We may be good at something, but does it feed your spirit? Ever feel like you have to pursue something just because you're good at it, and then guilty when you don't? Sometimes I do.

He suggested following what speaks to your most authentic self.

I loved that.

Maybe because this is something I'm always striving to do, discover and live what is happiness for me and offer the most genuine version of myself to the world.

Iftar

2010-09-12T02:21:00.007-06:00

Men sitting in front of my favorite Al Ain Mosque, waiting to pray just before sunset.

During the Islamic month of Ramadan, Iftar is the evening meal when Muslims break their fast, just after sunset. This is one of their religious observances and is often done with family and friends gathering to break their fast together.

We were lucky enough to be invited over for an Iftar or two this year. First was with a Jordanian family. They were so kind to host us in their home, and true to the local hospitality, prepared a huge feast with way too much food. The lamb biryani was so good. We discussed how our religions were similar and different, the quality of education available in the UAE, and American football a little.

At one point, Nibal and I went back to her bedroom so that we could each breastfeed our babies. At first I was a bit shy to just start nursing in from of her, but then I realized that in most cultures it is completely normal to do this around women you don't know. Here I was in her home, on her bed, both of us feeding our babies. I felt a bond. A connection with this woman that I could only slightly communicate with, that I had little else in common with. It was amazing.

Mohammad, Eyad, and Richard

Catherine, Maryam holding Elizabeth, and Nibal

We also planned an Iftar with the Coordinating Council employees. We had juice, nuts, fruit, dates, beef, and Nasim brought samosas, picaora, and kharis (prounounced har-eese).

Nasim Bad Shah and Elizabeth

McSean Thompson and Elizabeth

Grandpa and Elizabeth

Sweetie Face

2010-09-02T02:31:00.000-06:00

Elizabeth had several vaccinations today. Richard came too, ya know, for moral support in case I broke down. (I've heard this happens to Moms :) I thought I was going to lose it having to watch, but I held it together.

It wasn't until this evening that my emotions peaked.

As is common after receiving vaccinations, she got a fever. But it was a high fever and for a little while she was too upset to nurse.

That's the kicker.

When your hungry, sick, screaming baby can't be comforted by you. When you try to offer and get rejected from the little life you're trying to keep healthy and happy.

{sigh}

First time my baby has been really sick.

Eventually the infant Tylenol started to help the fever come down and then she was able to nurse.

We nursed, and cuddled, and I sang to her.
She looked at me and smiled back,
and we wrote our own little duet of melodious coos.
Then I cuddled and sang and nursed some more as she drifted to sleep.

Sweet dreams.

Ramadan Kareem

2010-09-01T07:35:00.004-06:00

The Islamic holy month is in full swing over here.
Ramadan began on August 11th, determined by the sighting of the new moon in is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
This is observed by Muslims throughout the world.

It is a time of daytime fasting, sacrifice, and sprituality.

Usually the roads are packed with cars in the evening. But not right now. Just before the sun goes down, around 6:45 pm, everyone is rushing to get home to have Iftar, if they're not already there. (More on Iftar later).

I enjoy witnessing this celebration that has such religious significance for the people here. Although my beliefs are different, I can appreciate such devotion. I respect this culture and the people in it for their dedication to self-improvement, to service, to humility, to God.

Somebody looks good in polka dots

2010-08-29T05:10:00.002-06:00

Elizabeth had refreshing dip in the 30 degree (85F) pool and enjoyed the 40 degree (105 F) air once she got out. Richard had fun with her in the pool while I had fun behind the camera. I was giddy about putting her in this tiny swimsuit and loved how darling she looked.
Serious cuteness.

The bond

2010-08-23T02:34:00.005-06:00

Our friends offered to take care of Elizabeth for a few hours so that we could have a break. I got all gussied up and counted the minutes until our 3 hour date would start. We went to an afternoon showing of the movie Inception.

Two hours into show I started to become distracted.

Me: "I wonder how Elizabeth is doing?"

Richard: "Doing great."

Me: "Really though, do you think she's okay?"

Richard: "I'm sure she's fine."

2 minutes later...

Me: "Will you check your phone to see if you missed any calls/texts?"

Richard held my hand while we walked out to the car and we talked about how the movie was excellent. We shared our favorite parts and discussed how it made us think about the relationship between this life on earth and the eternity of time that follows in the next life. Very cool to think about.

By the time we started driving, I felt like I had a gaping hole in my chest. Now all I could talk about was Elizabeth and if she was crying the entire time or if she was alright being away from us for so long. She was fine, it was mostly if I was alright. I was so anxious to see my little girl. I missed her. It had been 3 hours and I missed my baby so much! A physical reaction to being apart from something I have being used to protecting, feeding, and taking care of 24/7.

Now I'm having a good laugh at myself as I remember thinking my sister was crazy when she came home early from a concert she paid good money to see, because she missed her baby.

Now I understand.

I'm a new member of the parents club. Just another sucker who is in love with their baby.

But who wouldn't do anything for this face?

Little miss is 2 months old

2010-08-18T03:58:00.004-06:00

* smiles in response to a smile
* holds her head steady when upright
* lifts head, shoulders and back when lying on her stomach
* raises her eyebrows during a diaper change
* pays attention to and follows objects
* loves to look at the bright windows
* sucks on her hand
* hums and coos during our conversation
* arches her back and wiggles so much she'll be rolling over before we know it
* mimics daddy sticking out his tongue
* likes to get the hiccups
* hates to fill up her diaper
* bath time makes her cross
* belches with the best of 'em
* loves to be double swaddled
* looks cute in everything
* over 10.5 pounds

2 months

2010-08-17T05:05:00.002-06:00

Rested

2010-08-15T03:24:00.004-06:00

Oh, today is bliss.

No matter what else happens I will honor this day with the label of good.

Why you ask?

It all started two nights ago. Screaming, crying, blah blah blah, you've heard it before.

Although I was able to snag an afternoon nap (thanks Richard), we couldn't face the previous nightmare becoming the norm. So, we decided to re-commit to a more structured schedule for Elizabeth to see if it helped. Nurse, wake time, nap, about every 2.5 hours.

Elizabeth slept from about midnight to 7:15, which means that so did I!

Success! Elation! Joy! Bliss!

It could be a fluke, or it could be the start of something very beautiful.

I'll let you know. :)

Waking up from nap time

2010-08-08T05:31:00.001-06:00

Yay Hurray for Barb!

2010-08-07T04:56:00.005-06:00

My beautiful sister Barb just finished her last final at the University of Utah to complete her BA in English.

She has accomplished this while also being involved in so much. She sang in the University Concert Coral, was involved in student government, managed several political campaigns, got married to a swell guy, and gave birth to a beautiful baby, just to name a few!

I'm so proud of her for following through and reaching this goal. Way to go sis!

My must haves of life with a newborn:

2010-08-07T04:04:00.015-06:00

Onesies with hand covers

Big, thin, and breathable, these amazing swaddle blankets from aden and anais are perfect living in our hot climate. (thanks Barb!)

LEN mattress protector from IKEA

the best lanolin cream out there by Lansinoh

Medela lactina Breastpump

Nightly outings

2010-08-06T02:13:00.002-06:00

Several days a week we have been going out in the evenings, between 5 and 9 PM. We head to one of three places; Bawadi Mall, Al Ain Mall, or Al Jimi Mall. This offers:

1. Getting outside of my house.

2. Air conditioned halls to move my legs a bit without melting in the constant heat.

3. A bite to eat at the food court or picking up groceries at Carrefour.

4. Distraction! Although Elizabeth seems to enjoy it as well, we go for us. To divert our attention from the tough crying nights.

7 weeks old

2010-08-05T01:22:00.001-06:00

Awww... cute.

2010-08-02T06:34:00.003-06:00

Smiles

2010-07-28T12:15:00.003-06:00

Elizabeth smiled at me today three times in a row! She didn't hold anything back. They were open mouth, nose scrunched, full dimpled smiles.

Oh it was darling!

She was awake, alert, and looking right at me. She knew it was her Mommy. :) Is there anything better than seeing your baby smile at YOU for the first time? I submit there is not.

I wasn't able to grab a picture of it, so this cuteness will have to do for now.

Elizabeth's Pregnancy - Photo Story

2010-07-25T11:09:00.003-06:00

14 weeks

16 weeks

22 weeks

30 weeks

37 weeks

8 weeks

22 weeks

July 23, 2010 - Happy 5th Anniversary!

2010-07-25T10:53:00.004-06:00

Five years ago I married my best friend, true love, hottie pants Richard. We were so in love. Good news is, we still are, and life just keeps getting better.

We have lived across the country and across the world, earned three degrees of higher ed, traveled state-side and abroad, taken risks, learned a lot, worked hard and saved money, made amazing friendships, and strengthened our testimonies.

We have celebrated well each year. Year one was a weekend in New York City. Year two, Ruth Chris Steak in Philadelphia. Year three was a week in San Diego. Year four we ate gelato and pizza in Italy.

This year was chill, basic. In fact, I didn't even leave the house. Richard made lemon chicken for dinner while I soothed our baby. He spoon fed me off of his plate while I nursed. Then I did the dishes while he soothed her crying. We both stood in the kitchen and ate some chocolate ice cream while she was "asleep." That lasted about 5 minutes before it all started up again.

Although the rest of the night was trying to calm our darling crying daughter, this is just as memorable as any other year, in a good way. Taking care of our baby together has been the truest kind of love I've known.

(Healthy[???]) Signs You're a New Daddy

2010-07-21T07:01:00.000-06:00

Just a few observations on becoming Daddy wise. Can anyone else identify with these? Let me know in the comments!!!

1) Your grocery bill quadruples on account of diapers, breast pads, and "feminine napkins."

2) You feel like you struck the lottery if you get more than three hours of sleep at a time.

3) Your garbage consumption multiplies exponentially overnight (likely related to item 1).

4) Your typical reading changes from "Good to Great" or "Competitive Strategy" to"Baby Wise," "What to Expect," or "The Happiest Baby on the Block."

5) Breasts are all business, all day, every day - no exceptions

6) Instead of tracking trending of regional housing values or international economies, your spreadsheets track and graph nursing trends and the frequency and nature of dirty diapers.

7) You may discover errant feces on any part of your body at any time. It's probably not yours, but still. . . Alarmingly, you don't panic at said errant feces. You may find this difficult to reconcile.

8) Your habit of putting through a white wash every 7-10 days is now a daily habit. Hopefully you held on to that 3 year warranty.

9) You find that you have a preference between handling projectile vomiting or projectile diarrhea. Not that you have a choice, but the fact that you have a preference at all seems a little twisted.

*Edited for content. The top half of this picture (not shown) is both horrifying and hilarious.

10) The line separating six weeks and forever is alarmingly blurred. Six. friggin'. weeks.

11) You don't work out at the gym anymore, but you may have developed a custom arm, shoulder, traps, core, and leg toning program based on one 8 pound weight. Don't worry, this weight should increase by around 1 oz. per day (but try to control your own).

12) You may feel regret for not paying better attention to lyrics during singing time in Primary. Most lullaby's and songs invariably turn to "bloo bloo, blee blah, zong dee zee dong."

13) You and your wife hold a small celebration every time your baby burps, farts, or poops. You still cry after the blowouts.

14) You notice an increase in flatulence on account of bouncing four hours a day. Just go with it - baby can use the pointers and your wife will appreciate less poo-particles in the bed.

15) You will likely experience a redistribution of hair from your head to your middle and upper back. No words of comfort on this one.

16) By the time 8:30 PM rolls around, you and your wife have the same thing on your minds. . . bedtime (sleeping, specifically).

17) Your vocal cords will tighten significantly when communicating with your baby, resulting in a pinched contra tenor or higher voice register. Low-register grunting from time to time will reassure yourself and others of your masculinity.

18) Despite quizzical stares from bystanders, you probably wear a diaper bag with pride. As long as you're not wearing an outfit to match the bag, this is perfectly normal.

19) You're certain that the greatest gift you can give the world is to give everyone a glimpse of your baby. Just be sure to be sensitive to others whose children are not nearly as cute as yours, okay?

20) Your life is completely turned upside down, but you find that you wouldn't trade it for the world (even though sometimes you want to shoot yourself in the face).

Welcome to fatherhood, you studly man. High fives all around!

What I've been up to my first month

2010-07-20T03:49:00.005-06:00

Baths
Car rides
Outings to the store
Attended sacrament meeting at the Branch
Road trip to Abu Dhabi
Applied for my own passport in Abu Dhabi at the American Embassy
Soaked up gentle UV Rays to help my Jaundice clear up
Showed off my curly hair
Played with Grandma and Grandpa
Smiled intentionally at Mommy!
Pooped all over Daddy (several times)

1 month

2010-07-20T01:24:00.004-06:00

The day dawn is breaking

2010-07-18T04:10:00.003-06:00

The evenings around here are tough.

Elizabeth cries, screams, gets the hiccups, cries more. We soothe, cuddle, pat, carry, swaddle, hold, swing. Poor little thing. So anyway, last night this lasted for six hours.

While trying to soothe her, Richard and I got out the Primary Song Book and started singing them back to back. It was tender. He cuddled with her while I took a shower, and we all were in bed by midnight.

Elizabeth woke up at 4:30 AM and while I nursed her, I listened to the sounds outside announcing the dawn light. First the birds waking up. Then the call to prayer as I rocked her back to sleep.

It was natural, spiritual, beautiful.

A moment to remember that today is a new day, to try again, to do better.

Fresh with hope.