The Bilau Bunch

cheatin'

2008-04-08T18:50:00.002-07:00

I am cheatin' on blogger...
check the new site out - still workin' on it but much easier way to show my recent photos from my mac.
what do ya think?

raising boys

2008-03-30T19:45:00.002-07:00

so my youngest has to hold on to the wall and doens't know what size of boots he should wear much less which way the toes should point...

so no one would want to mess with my oldest in a dark or even fully lit alley way.

raising boys is tough. don't worry - i'm still adding to the gene pool:)

birthday

2008-03-25T17:53:00.002-07:00

well my birthday was relaxing and much fun.

after a long work day, friday - joe and i headed down to missoula without kiddos.

got to shop a bit (i know i am pathetic and don't get out much)

then a quiet dinner (i could only eat a few bites of my actual meal but had a fridge in our room)

then a night in a quite hotel (no dog or kids to wake us up - just my sister's cheery text message at 630am - she is too cute;))

back in the car for a drive up to my parents for more birthday dinner and easter celebrations.

joe and i had nice conversations on the car rides - why does it seem like weeks go by and we don't even get to even talk to each other?

have a crazy, hectic work week going. filling in for a staff member on vacation but a break is on the way.

love all the wonderful birthday gifts! i am way too spoiled and undeserving!

THANKS!

scrapin'

2008-03-16T13:35:00.003-07:00

Well, I have spent 20 hours this weekend scrapbooking at my friend Brenda's. I got 21 pages completed!
5 women took over her living room from 6pm til 11:30 pm Friday night and then again at 9am Saturday morning until midnight. Wow!
I must add that no alcohol was used to amuse us and keep us going - 4 out of 5 of us are expecting litte ones! The other 1 of us has enough common sense to know that scrapin' and alcohol don't mix!
I have not really even done any scrapbooking for L as of yet - YIKES. Now I am getting somehwhere.
I believe O's baby book will be completely digital. I just don't have the time to get it done.
So thanks to Brenda for opening up her home, thanks to all the hubbies for watching kiddos - especially J as he had our dudes all day Friday while I worked too!

in 3's?

2008-03-09T20:09:00.004-07:00

I've always heard bad things come in 3's.
So, I'm counting...
1 - Tom
2- Abby
3 - Tippen
But now we are faced with a 4th - Chase.
He is part of O's God family. He has been around Luke since he was 3 months old. His mom took care of L when I went back to work. He is a junior in high school now and over 200 lbs.
He was in a skiing accident Friday night. Burst fractures to 3 lumbar vertebrae, broke both wrists with ligament damage as well, also suffered a concussion.
He is awaiting wrist surgery on Wednesday and will be wearing a special brace for his back anytime he gets up for the next 6 weeks.
Luckily, he is still alive and all his injuries are repairable. Quite a blessing!
Please keep this young guy in your prayers. He really has a good head on his shoulders and has been through various other injuries in the past couple of years taking away several of his joys - football, skiing and tennis.
Okay - I am officially only accepting good news - just kidding...

somethings i've been eyeing

2008-03-08T19:11:00.003-07:00

i've had a few requests for b-day ideas. i truly do believe that everyone has tastes that are most likely better than mine however if you are interested in the type of things i have been eyeing here ya go...

trying to avoid another day of hairstyling (yes, I am getting old and lazy) - perhaps another hair powder is recommended??? this is new for me...

can get bigger in this and this and still look somewhat decent

i've always wanted one of these

that's all i've got for now...any help???

Tippen

2008-03-07T21:31:00.002-07:00

My parent's dog Tippen had to be put down today:(
She is their 12 year old German shepherd. She had been having these weird cysts pop up through her fur and the skin on her underside had become very discolored and irritated. It's not like they don't take her to the vet often or anything - this just creeped up. When my dad took her in today they determined that she had a growth on her spleen that was inoperable - she would bleed out from the surgery and not survive. She they put her to sleep.
She really was a great dog - probably the best they've had so far. Their favorite daughter (as my sister and I joke).
They do still have their hands full with Fargo - their 2 year old German shepherd. She will be lost for awhile but will soon realize that she really rules the roost now.
Mom had told Dad that one dog is enough at a time but we will see how long that lasts...

She's One!

2008-03-06T08:14:00.003-07:00

My little niece turns one today! Lainey is absolutely gorgeous and has the sweetest disposition but make no mistake she is in charge. Watch out for this one!

Happy birthday, Lainey girl! Wish we were there to celebrate!

updates

2008-03-05T20:13:00.003-07:00

Well, Abby's scans came back showing no progression of cancer to the spine this time. Therefore, no need for the spinal tap - yikers! Cannot even imagine going thru that with my child much less cancer!

She still has surgery ahead of her to remove the tumor to her brain. Not sure what other treatment they will initiate - she had maxed out on chemo and radiation for her age a couple of years ago.

Prayers are still desparately needed for this little one for what lies ahead!

Tom is now out of ICU, off the vent, and prayerfully out of the woods. He is still quite weak and unable to care for himself. Prayers for healing are still needed to get him back on his feet. Sounds like the health department is involved now with his case - investigating if he contracted this rare strand of pneumonia from his office.

Praise the Lord for our health!

Sweet Abby

2008-03-04T20:28:00.002-07:00

Please visit this website.

We are overjoyed with the news of our fall arrival however some families have woes on their hearts.

This is the story of my sister-in-law's niece, Abby. She is bright and beautiful. She has undergone so much in her short life that I cannot dare to wish on my worst enemy (not that I really have any enemies). She had a cancerous, spinal tumor that was operated on a couple of years ago (I'm not sure she has even turned 5 yet) and has been doing well. Her very recent check back at St. Jude's revealed a tumor on her brain. More testing is scheduled to make certain that it has not spread to her spine yet again.

Please keep them in you prayers. What trauma for anyone but especially someone so young.

Her caring bridge journal is wonderfully done by her mother, Francie, a caring nurse by profession as well as a mother. Cannot be fun to use your pediatric nursing skills on your own flesh and blood.

God is good. Times like these that is so much harder to grasp - that is what faith is all about, right?

#3

2008-02-26T18:20:00.004-07:00

Third time is a charm?
Well, so far I think the 1st two have both been charmers - but I am partial.
Heard the heart beat yesterday at 1st doctor's appt. About 9 or 10 weeks along. So due date of 9/24/08 - Papa Al's birthday - Nana's is 9/25! What a present!!!
Feeling a little more nauseous this go round - not sure what that means. We shall wait and be surprised yet again.
Keep you posted!

My Island

2008-02-25T20:43:00.005-07:00

Look what Joe made me...

Isn't it beautiful? And so functional too. I already can't imagine my kitchen without it!

So great to have a handy hubby!!!

Thanks, Babe! Love ya!

Legionnaires’ disease

2008-02-22T19:54:00.002-07:00

A dear, dear family friend, Tom Tracey (like a father to me), has been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease. It is a rare form of pneumonia and quite serious. So serious in fact that he is on a ventilator - which was unable to be removed today. He is also requiring a nasal-gastric tube for feeding.

He is young - only 57. Father of 5. Loving wife/soulmate.

Not sure where he picked up this bug. He did just return from his son's wedding in the Bahamas. He also battled mono a few months ago.

Please keep him close in your prayers. God is good and can heal all.

Will keep you posted on his recovery!

Thanks!

no hit days

2008-02-19T21:16:00.002-07:00

Well, we've got a problem with Luke.
He is a hitter. Not only is he bigger than all of the kids in his class but he uses his brut strength on them too?
Please tell me my kid is not that kid.
We got called to the director of his day care's office.
He has now been moved to another classroom and so far this seems to have made all the difference. Apparently, it was mainly one particular child that was the victim - having a different teacher may be an improvement as well.
We have also initiated "no hit days".
When we pick him up from school we don't ask if he had a "good" day - we simply ask if he had a "no hit day".
Coupons are handed out from his teacher if it was a "no hit day". We are also handing out coupons at home.
After earning 3 he gets to choose from the reward jar. The jar is full of slips of paper that list a fun activity that he gets to do.
So far he has been able to rent a video. We are one more day away from reward #2 - and we just started last week.
So far so good...

there's more

2008-02-11T18:44:00.001-07:00

I forgot - to add to my week.
I have a dental appt Wednesday (during my work week) - oops!
Also, reading one other book. It is quite humbling - actually hard for me to get through - hits my clutterbug life a little too close to home. Can you believe my boss gave it to me? I don't think she thinks it applies to my work environment but she knows my tendancies and she happens to share them with me.
The same author has a new one out but I have to tackle this one first...

what i am up to...

2008-02-10T20:41:00.000-07:00

dinner tonight - yum-o!!!
making valentine's for the boys to take to school...
Luke is really in a dinosaur phase so the boys in his class get these
the girls get sparkly necklaces - because you know girls, they sparkle;)
Big O's class get's goldfish snacks and a love note from him for a Happy Heart Day!
I got all of (not really that many) Valentine's decorations out today - not sure why - it will be over in a couple of days.
I've got lots of reading to this week...
this book for lenten service small group study - it really called to me - excited about getting through it during lent
this book for work - I have training in a couple of weeks and this is part of my homework from last session
i have 3 presentations that i am helping to give this week on communication - not my forte but with the training my boss has put our team thru time for the student to become the teacher.
big O also has to make it to the ENT during my work day/presentation day (tuesday)
bunco is tuesday night, lenten service wednesday night, thursday no work/no school for kiddos but will take them in for their valentine's day parties
luke starts basketball again on saturday, working nursery for 830am service sunday
whew - i'm tired already and it hasn't even begun. i should get to my reading but i know that will just put me right to sleep. what is a mom/girl to do?

call

2008-01-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

Another great line by Luke tonight as we were trying to get him to mind his manners and eat his dinner.
Dad let him know his choices and said, "It's your call, Luke."
Luke's reply was quick and serious.
"Dad, I don't have a real phone."
In a few years, a comment like that may still be quick but not as serious - more full of witt.
Oh, no! The fun we have ahead!

thigh highs

2008-01-27T14:47:00.000-07:00

Big O cannot help himself. He wants to be like his big brother in so many ways.
Look what happens when he puts on Luke's socks. They go all the way to his thighs.

Unfortunately, his thighs don't have enough meat on them to keep the socks up though! Too funny!
He has too much fun with whatever he does. Such a joy!!!

NORO continues

2008-01-22T07:31:00.000-07:00

Ugh! I thought I was in the clear but I have missed the past two days of work now. I spend my days frequenting the toilet, so I am not even getting much done!

We are super busy at work - have found other therapists to cover but I do need to get some prep work done for a consultant we have coming in Thursday and Friday.

This has to end.

Of yeah, worst of all, today is Joe's b-day! Happy Birthday, Babe! He certainly isn't going to eat any cake or food I prepare. I guess it's out to dinner tonight - not sure I will have the appetite for it though - BOY do I hate that!!!

gift

2008-01-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

I was reminded that I didn't officially post what I got for my Christmas gift.

This isn't the exact one we bought but it's identical.

We drove it back from Nebraska. We weren't planning on buying a new car on our trip but we were in a position to make an offer and if they didn't bite no skin off our teeth - our burb was still doing fine just over 100,000 miles so value was plummeting.

We picked my sis up from the airport in it (hadn't told her about it yet) - she didn't notice. Of course, her little guys was wailing in the back seat which unnerves any mom.

plan b again

2008-01-19T21:20:00.000-07:00

well we had a date night planned again but this time I was the sick one. This lovely thing has been going around work. I woke up with it this morning but was determined to get it out of my system. Joe's b-day is next week and we wanted to do dinner at HuHot (we have a gift card that is burning a hole in our pocket). Then we wanted to go to the movie. I thought I'd finally found a good one that both of us would like and we wouldn't feel bad about watching.
Well it is snowing tonight. And when we get to HuHot, Joe knows the guy cooking at the grill of course (one of his patients - I swear he treats the whole valley - he should really run for mayor). Anyway, he tells us that they just issued a travel advisory and it is emergency travel only. They planned on shutting the restaurant down early.
I felt awful at this point - why did I let our 16 year-old babysit drive clear across town in this weather for us to go to dinner for 30 minutes. I texted her (yeah - gotta be hip like that with the young kids) and let her know we were not going to the movie but would rent one and be home.
Joe is following her home as I type.
I am watching the end of Bourne Supremacy that I fell asleep on last night and then we will finish the trilogy with Bourne Ultimatum when he returns.
Sometimes plan b turns out just fine. Just wish I would have been game for it first thing this am!

babytime

2008-01-17T15:39:00.001-07:00

Isn't he just cute enough to eat? My nephew is nothing but smiles these days.

We just got done with a great visit from my sis and her little bundle. He had to come north to figure out what snow is all about.

His cousin got him a little too close to the snow. Luke chucked a snowball that landed right below the little guy's eye. We are such a welcoming bunch!

Big O thought he wasn't so big. He didn't want to share his "baby" things with the baby very much. He was still able to fit into most of them though - he can just get in and out himself now.

pay?

2008-01-01T21:18:00.000-07:00

Joe and my dad were trying to level out the new tv my parents bought into an old walnut hutch that my mom loves. They had stopped touching anything and the light sound of glass breaking and falling was heard.

A lower shelf of the walnut hutch had tilted (it was only hanging on by a couple of small nails for over 100 years). My mom's china and other valuable glassware was slowly being crushed.

Luke had the cutest comment, "Mom, who is going to pay for that?".

Oh, I think Papa will be paying for that for some time.

She is always telling me about the high price of carnival glass. Unfortunately, it isn't worth as much in so many, many small pieces.

The main hardship was the damage done to her mother's china. I do believe it is replaceable. She has seen it on the replacements.com website. I can't for the life of me remember the name of it right now. I even looked at the bottom of a broken creamer today to see the name. It's Noritake - I think it starts with an "e"...

I think the best plan or repayment may be to start a new collection in tribute of her new woodland habitat. What about this? It comes in such a variety and it is pretty nice stuff.

I know it is no replacement for her roots - the heirloom from her mother but they are things and the life and memories we have are much more important.

Poor guys! Poor Papa! But by the way, it is a really nice tv!

christmas in nebraska

2008-01-01T08:45:00.000-07:00

Well we made it safely to nebraska and back for the Christmas holiday. We had a great time catching back up with family. The boys had a blast with their grandparents and cousins. They really got some quality play time in with grandma and grandpa as well as their cousin Casey.

We drove this trip but we all did well. It was less stressful than flying and we were able to bring all of our goodies to and from.

Luke is loving his pirate ship from Casey. He also has a new bike that he needs to try out. He mastered his 12 incher without training wheels so we promised him a bigger bike and it of course had to be blue.

Owen is cleaning up everything with his new vacuum and handheld vac - he is also fixing up everything with his new tool sets.

Casey is enjoying his new excavator.

Lainey has a precious doll cradle and new doll (courtesy of Grandpa). She is quite proud!

Uncle Chris and Aunt Betsy celebrated birthdays - glad we were there to celebrate with them.

I can't share the pics of my gift yet - my sister is coming to visit Friday and I want to surprise her.

Nana & Papa Christmas

2007-12-16T22:11:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Christmas with my parents today - since we leave this week for Nebraska to visit Joe's family!!!

The boys had a great time! This is such a fun age for them to experience the holidays.

Nana and Papa kept the boys over night last night so Joe and I could attend a Christmas party with my co-workers. They love being at Nana & Papa's! Luke is feeling a little under the weather but being spoiled by Nana & Papa was just what he needed. I just hope he gets better before we travel!

Santa's Coming to Town

2007-12-14T22:48:00.000-07:00

That's right - he's here in Kalispell. He was at my work tonight (bearing
gifts of course), he will be at Kid Kare this week, and then he travels all the way to Nebraska to bring more gifts!
The boys were so well behaved at work tonight. They are growing up! They are enjoying some new Thomas Take-Alongs.
We head up to Nana and Papa's Sunday to celebrate an early Christmas with them. The Holiday season is rolling - trying to keep up!

"Crackin' my Heart"

2007-12-01T18:18:00.000-07:00

This has all the makings of a country western song. I hadn't thought of that as the future career for my eldest son but his dinnertime quote tonight may have some promise.

Luke was procrastinating and whining about finishing his dinner (the 2nd entree he was served - the 1st one wasn't to his liking) - UGH! When we explained to him that he longer it took him to eat his dinner the closer it was getting to bathtime.

He placed his head in his hands, hung his head down and replied, "You're crackin' my heart".

I, of course, quickly corrected him, "You mean breaking my heart".

"NO!", he yelled. "You're CRACKIN' it!"

Make no mistake - I got it the second time around.

Nashville here we come;)

Thanksgiving

2007-11-25T12:33:00.000-07:00

So I might as well post two holidays in one day - otherwise it might not happen until after Christmas!

Big O enjoyed his Thanksgiving feast - all the fixin's!!!

We are so thankful for our family! We enjoyed a wonderful meal with Nana and Papa. Last year Nana had just had parathyroid surgery and suffering from strep throat - turkey soup for them. We had the full spread this year - delish! Joe and I got to have a date night and get a jump start on Christmas shopping the next day/night while Nana and Papa took on the kiddos! We might have to make that a yearly tradition if they are up to it again - we got a lot accomplished!

The year is flying by!

Belated Halloween

2007-11-25T11:07:00.000-07:00

Finally! Before I put all my pumpkins away and put up our Christmas tree that we just cut down yesterday I had to snap some shots of my little guys in their Halloween costumes.

Here ya go!

Now on with the seasons!!!

pizza guy

2007-11-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

Anyone know this guy?

Well, I've got my very own.

That's right. My very own pizza guy is back. We haven't done much pizza making since we've been in kalispell. I/We need one of these in our kitchen.

I think my little elf (yeah, I have one of those too) - is building me one for christmas. Love this man. What can I ever get him for gifts that compares to the one of a kind pieces he make for me???

Anyway, back to the subject at hand. We had 8 adults and 3 kiddos to feed saturday night and the homemade pizza was a hit. We didn't do too bad for not having an island to roll the dough out on and to manage the 6-7 pizza pans that we scattered around on any available counter top.

Our adorable (and very bright I will add) Godson
and his parents, grandparents and aunt and uncle stopped by while they were in NW Montana for an early Thanksgiving with family to participate in some cowboy poetry at Grouse Mountain Lodge. Scott, Tana and Hunter stayed overnight with us and joined us for Sunday school and church as well as lunch at my favorite place before heading back to Helena.

Now the little guys are napping. Soon we will do some family shopping for ski gear for Luke and new IPod for mom and dad. Not sure big O will get much out of this afternoon's shopping adventures - the little guy always gets the raw end of the deal.

Also - time to get thinking about the holidays. Shopping and decorating to be done. Finally got all the growth cut off plants in the beds by the house. Now time to switch seasons. Still no snow on the ground so should get the lights up - but my pizza guy isn't thrilled about that chore:( He is the kind of elf that builds things but leaves the holiday decorating to someone else. I guess I can't have it all!

On with the day!

Plan B

2007-11-09T20:36:00.000-07:00

Well, we had hoped to make it out to "The Beach Ball" (a dance for employees of the hospital) but we ended up with a sick babysitter. Darn it. No social time for us.

I even had my haircut scheduled for right before the big event.

Oh well, plan B. Put kiddos to bed. Bring home sandwiches. Veg out watching The O.C. (we are into Season 3 now). Snack on Hot Tamales (just in case I didn't reach my caloric intake with the philly cheese steak I just inhaled).

This will be just as much fun - especially for me who gets rather anti-social these days.

Plan B also followed through at work today too. Got of early so I had time to go workout before my haircut - thus I could have a philly cheese steak for dinner!

Sometimes I love plan B;)

milestones

2007-11-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

I have a new milestone to add to the baby books.

So maybe he is 4 years old now - probably out of the baby book stage but I think this final milestone may make it official.

Potty training cold turkey at 3 wasn't too tough. Getting the young man to wipe his own rear has been quite the challenge. He has had no interest. Until today...

"Mom, can you come in here? I am done going poo-poo!"

Usually this is quite the amplified statement resonating throughout the home and perhaps the neighborhood. Today it was rather a calm statement of fact - not of urgency. When I arrived at the door I had to explain to him that I could not get in as he has locked the door.

"Oh. Just a minute."

I enter the bathroom.

"Hey mom, do you want to see something?"

Always a frightening question after your son has used the toilet - but I am a daring girl - no queasy stomach here.

"Sure."

"Want to see my wipe my bottom?"

It was quite an impressive site. Albeit not through at least there was initiative and an attempt - in fact there was literal action that got the job done.

Hallelujah - I say! The boy is no longer a babe! Send him to school - heck have him ride his own bike there with his very own two bottom wiping hands!!!

He even washed his own hands WITHOUT resistant - this is a miracle in itself.

So there you have it. Baby book complete.

PS - if you really want to know how insane I am getting - ask me about how I actually set my 18 month old on the potty last week. I really did think he would poop on it - poor me:(

hunter's widow

2007-11-05T18:22:00.000-07:00

Joe's been gone since Tuesday and this is what he has to show for it.

He had a great time with "the guys" out in eastern Montana and the 4 of them brought home 7 animals - one cow elk, two does, three bucks and one antelope. Not too shabby. We will not starve this winter!

It did leave me without my digital camera on halloween so no pics of my cute pair. We will have to do a redo this week so I can some post some pics.

We are very glad to have daddy home and are still adjusting to standard time.

favorite things

2007-10-25T20:33:00.000-07:00

okay, so maybe these aren't my favorite things but they are definitely some highlights from today...

- having my mom around to come watch luke while i take owen for his 18 month check up

- having my husband call to tell me and my mom to lock up the house b/c there are 2 escape murders in the valley (seriously - i know everyone who reads this probably has this happen on a daily basis where they live but around here it's a rarity)

- on that note, let me add living in Montana to this list;)

- having a physician that is so down to earth and caring about all of our family members (helps that he is a co-worker of mine and i'm his wife's boss) - you know your physician is good when he can care for 90 year olds and newborns:)

- garfield bandaids after shots (crazy that the same cat that decorated a number of my childhood birthdays is still around)

- talking to my sister for over an hour on the phone while owen sleeps off his shots

- owen's 3 1/2 hour nap!!!

- a sandbox in our backyard

- having to bathe both kids before dinner because they had so much fun in the sandbox

- having to use a hairdryer on my 18 month old's hair after his bath

- living less than a mile from costco

- having a husband that will stop by costco for me on his way home from work even though it's only a mile out of my way - he loves us:)

- dinner with my family and saying grace together for our meal

- watching private practice on my laptop (love abc.com)

today was a great day!!!

now on the sad notes...

- back to work tomorrow (only one more day though)

- owen has only gained 1 lb in 3 months (20% percentile for weight but 80% for height and 90% for head circumference) - i promise he eats all the time!!!

- owen may have to get tubes - kind of talked my way out of it this visit but i don't think i'll win when we head back in november (these boys of mine like to keep fluid on their ears - i guess i do want owen to be able to talk well someday)

- sad that mom takes child in for well baby checkup while she has a low grade temp, hacking cough and smokers voice - i have not been the picture of health for the past 2 weeks:(

well, goodnight and don't be expecting a list like this tomorrow. i won't be able to keep track of all that happens all that well. so many old peope to get moving and so little time;)

comfort food

2007-10-21T12:24:00.000-07:00

What am I doing with my Sunday afternoon? Well, when I woke up at 615am today after only sleeping for a total of 6 hours in 2 hour stretches, I promised myself I would be napping but...I'm not. I am cooking!

Came home from church and had some Signature Tomato and Basil Soup (love Safeway) along with some Olive Cheese Bread. Thanks PW for the wonderful recipe! It is so bad for you but so, so good!

So glad we still go to church in WF so I can stop by Safeway for the milk and soup! Yum-O!

Now my kitchen has the aromas of this! It is the second time I have made it. The 1st was for company and it turned out well so here we go again. Not sure why I said we - it has been a one woman job. I highly recommend this receipe too!

I am in search of a homemade macaroni and cheese receipe...the kind that is easy to make and probably not good for you but so comforting.

We are heading into our cooler days - hanging in the 40s and 50s - snow is on the mountain tops and coming slowly down to lower elevations. Got to have the comfort food and put on the extra layer of adipose to stay warm this winter.

I do not have the wardrobe budget for this kind of seasonal depression therapy - I probably should go for the figure friendly menus and put on the layer of down to the exterior of my body rather than pad the interior. This definitely goes against my better judgement though and will be a struggle all season long.

So, I guess send along any healthy mac n cheese recipes too:(

My sweet J, is fighting the comfort food and beverage battle too - sorry to make you sound like an ETOH abuser. It's an addiction of a different kind (and one that I share with you) - DP.

Diet soda just isn't the same. Doesn't give the same rush that the sugar high does. Have to say that the zero stuff tries to fool me with the initial flavor but the after taste - what is with that??? You notice they haven't dare disguise DP and make it zero.

Overall, my occupation and education has taught me to give up the calcium leeching liquid althogether but water is boring so very, very boring.

I am truly happy with my diabetic bound self. Ready to tackle the winter dulldrums with food - glorious food!

If I could only jog a mile a day too - all would balance out.

Go for it J - inspire me - I need it!!!

PS - oh yeah - forgot to mention why I got so little sleep - has to do with comfort food too;) My friend Vicki came over and brought pork chili verde for dinner and I had made up some queso with hot sausage and rotel. we ate 'til we were stuffed and then played mexican train until midnight! we hadn't done that in a long time! what fun and she satisfied the craving I'd had for her chili verde - even left me some of the leftovers to enjoy later this week!!! Friends are such a blessing!!!

Mom

2007-10-18T15:35:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I know all of the words to this song;)

Being a mom is too good to be true!!!

awesome october

2007-10-15T19:46:00.000-07:00

wow - we've had great weather for our visitors! my sister has been out here with my nephew. my grandmother made the long trip from north carolina too. my brother in law made it out for the best weather weekend in a while.

look at the fun we had kayaking on dickey lake - great idea sam!

luke played his role of lumberjack at nana and papa's - no child labor laws in montana.

is this guy too cute in his winter hat or what???

really, a great mini family reuninion. so sad it's over - but can't wait til the next one!

firsts

2007-10-08T19:51:00.001-07:00

Well, L had his 1st dentist appt last week. He did so well! Of course, I thought I'd be the cool mom and take him out to eat afterwards before taking him back to school. I forgot about the stinking flouride treatment and no eating or drinking for 30 minutes afterwards. My favorite part were these - what a great idea. Why don't they have adults wear these so that crazy light doesn't get in your eyes???
I also had a 1st! Won my first blog contest - check it out! Getting a start on my Christmas shopping;)
My nephew took his 1st plane ride this past week too! That's right, Mr. T made his way out here from Texas to meet his cousins and uncle. Also of note, Grandma Jeanette is making her way out to Montana to meet her newest great-grandson too! We look forward to some fun family time!

work?

2007-10-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

I have to laugh at my major challenges with returning to work today after being off since last Tuesday.
1st off - my staff gave away our best four-wheeled walker to a patient. That is they let her take it home. None of the vendors in the entire state could find the exact one we had her using while in our transitional care unit and this was the only one she could go home with or she would be "unsafe" - per her crazy daughter. Ugh! Isn't it sad that I am so protective of such things.
2nd - my boss pages my while I am trying to pick my sister and nephew up from the airport to ask me why my departments profit and loss statements from august showed us being too efficient. I guess we need to try slacking off a bit. We don't want the budget to look bad for next year now do we?
What in the world!
Gotta throw congrats out to my brother in law - he was promoted to VP of the Rockets last week! So impressive! I don't think I've ever know a VP - especially one who isn't even 30 yet!
Also - what do you think of this work?
This is just a sampling of what Jan did for us on her trip out here...

is she good or what?

one job = friend

2007-09-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

for the past few/several days i have only had one job
doesn't that sound great?
i only had to be a friend
i loved it!!!
i picked up j from the airport in spokane on wednesday. spent the day walking around river park square, had a relaxing dinner at Brooklyn's Woodfire Grill, and then relaxed at our hotel.
the next am we awoke at our leisure and then walked around Gonzaga's campus. Then we drove back to Kali via Bonner's Ferry/Libby. picked the kiddos up from KidKare and went out for yummy queso at Qdoba once dad made it home from his workday. did some shopping (but no buying:() at sportsman's then came home to watch private practice on the macbook.
friday had us once again awaking at our leisure - okay so it was a bit earlier as big o wasn't too happy that he may be working on an ear infection:( nothing a little loving and breakfast couldn't fix;) then off to woodland park for a family photo shoot with my friend;) we are so special. then we spent the rest of the day in downtown whitefish doing a little shopping - some actual buying this time too!
friday night we stayed in as Joe was out for a softball game. made some yummy blt salad and corn dip! watched a movie (don't recommend it) and grey's on the macbook again.
unfortunately joe had some car trouble while out at his softball game so he had to have it towed to the mechanic's saturday am but after that jan and i were on our way back to spokane for some friend time but not before picking up a frugal burger;) once to spokane we did eddie bauer outlet, ross, old navy, and spokane valley mall. gorged ourselves at outback and then took in a movie (once again not one i recommend - not sure why now when i finally have a chance to go to the movies that there isn't anything out there worth seeing;()
had a great walk sunday am - just couldn't find a church that moved us to attend. got packed up, grabbed some lunch and headed back to the airport. unfortunately the flight was 3 hours delayed due to "operational difficulties" - nice. sad to say i couldn't wait around with here:( i had to head back to reality before the snow started to fall over the pass (4th of July and Mullen) - no such luck. made it home just after 8pm and only had to pause for a few deer!
back to the real world.
getting laundry going and house spiffed for sister and nephew's arrival tomorrow!!!
back to work to see what i need to catch up on - LOTS! then taking Luke to his 1st dentist appt.
looking forward to slowing down a bit - probably next month;)

Kissin' Cousins

2007-09-23T21:14:00.001-07:00

Finishing up a fun filled weekend tonight. One of Joe's cousin's from Nebraska made a brave road trip out to see us with his wife and three kids - ages 5, 3, and 19 months.

They arrived Thursday evening about suppertime and are leaving bright and early tomorrow. A whirlwind trip but plenty of fun for all the boys and girl.

They hiked up part of Big Mountain Friday with Joe and the boys while I worked.

Saturday we played outside at home - walked around the 'hood. Dads played some golf and Joe made homeade pizza.

We tackled the challenge of 5 kids at the 1030 service of church. We never go to this service because this is when Big O likes to take his nap - he was so restless. Great sermon though - check it out. Worship was great too - I cried (of course) - actually sang "Open the Eyes of my Heart" in spanish - not bad at all!

Then we hit a couple of stores in downtown Whitefish for a few last minute gifts. Then we drove to Sunday Creek for a nice lunch (sub sandwiches) and a super quick hike to a wonderful waterfall.

Then we continued the road trip to Nana and Papa's. Came home for some yummy dinner and another round of Catch Phrase.

The kids are certainly worn out but fun was had by all. The Dads even finished off an entire bottle of Glenfiddich. Yikes!

Stay tuned for more of my crazy week ahead - much fun coming up!!! I hope I have time to keep you informed!

Doing it Old School

2007-09-16T15:12:00.001-07:00

Having a great family weekend. Getting lots of things done on the "to do lists" and spending good quality time with all.
Friday night - surprise 50th bday party for Sharon from work, took both boys as Joe was off to double header softball game, then took the little men to Target to buy birthday gifts for for Saturdays party
Saturday - employee picnic with the family, boys loved jumping on those air filled toys and munchin on blue snow cones, Joe and Luke were off to John-John's bday party at Pizza Factory while O and I hung out with Aunt Vicki waiting for them to return. Once they returned Vicki and I headed out to dinner and a movie while Joe spent some quality time crying over the Huskers. I didn't get home until midnight! Really enjoyed the comfy seats at the new movie theater (The Brave One - rather intense - so glad I live in Montana - I am NEVER moving.)
Sunday - up early to work the nursery at 830 service - it was only my kiddos to watch and two older girls were even there to "help" me. No one with little ones seems to be able to make it to that early service. Not sure if we will switch to 1030 instead??? we are down to only 2 more services before we move into new church anyway. sunday school will start up then too so we shall see how early sunday will begin for the Bilaus then. After church, it was a stop at Safeway for the Sunday paper then back home to get going on the "to dos". Getting the house and yard presentable - Joe's cousin and his wife and 3 kiddos are coming to visit this week from Nebraska. Joe is off to softball picnic tonight and then home for some O.C. marathon with me after boys are in bed.

The "Old School" report comes into play here...I love these guys! I am SO out of the loop - I had no idea this was even out there! Thanks, J!

I also walked into the bathroom to have my husband cursing at the wall. His stud finder was faulty in finding the stud and he screwed two holes into the wall while trying hang a mirror for me. He was using a screwdriver rather than a drill - not sure why my woodworking husband was going "old school" and not using a drill but whatever - maybe it's b/c I was in the other room getting all hot and bothered by the BSB video;)

Hot Sand

2007-09-04T21:04:00.000-07:00

The most curious bedtime conversation from Luke...

Luke: "Why can't we walk on hot sand?"

Mom: "Because it will burn our feet."

Luke: "And it will turn into fire and then we are dead?"

Mom: "No we will just hurt the skin on our feet."

Luke: "Why can lizards walk on hot sand?"

Mom: "They have different skin than we do and it doesn't burn their feet."

Luke: "Why didn't God give us skin like that?"

Mom: "He made each of us different."

Luke: "Yeah, and he made nice big lizards that we can ride on the hot sand so we won't burn our feet until they are dead from fire."

Now with all of those issues solved we can rest well tonight!

Echo, echo

2007-08-30T19:02:00.000-07:00

That's right echo times two!
The boys each had an appointment with a pediatric cardiologist in Missoula today! They each have murmurs that their doctor wanted to have investigated a little further.
L's is a systolic click (not sure if that is a technical term or not) - basically his aortic valve closes funny and could possibly be abnormal and only have two leaflets to close the valve rather than the normal three leaflets. The ultrasound of his heart (echo) reveals he is normal - all three are there just make a funny sound. No reason to worry.
O's murmur is quite loud and noticeable but echo revealed everything was fine:)
No need for futher follow-ups for either boys!!!
It was a potential trial to get each of them to lie still and have electrodes placed on their chest while the doctor (not their typical MD) rubs lotion and an ultrasound wand over their heart. Nothing the Cars movie and a dum-dum sucker in each hand can't fix. This doctor knows kids and was well prepared. I am sure he has to get that ultrasound wand replaced from time to time after being coated with sticky goo from sucker hands grabbing for it! Big O was just a bit inquisititive. I certainly didn't expect my 16 month old to being eating dum-dums yet - but whatever it takes to allow modern medicine to proceed.
Praise God for healthy hearts and praise him for compassionate and intellegent doctors and nurses that can help those without healthy hearts!

He is a dream!

2007-08-30T18:55:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful visit! "Ty guy" (that's my unapproved nickname for my nephew) is amazing! He rarely cries. Bathtime - no crying. Diaper changes - no crying. Mom and Dad are so good with him. He is so loved! What a blessing!
Had a great trip to Houston to meet him and his proud parents. He has a mohawk of red hair that his mom is determined to tame:) She is slowly conquering this challenge.
They are doing quite well and I am very impressed. I forgot how easy it is to just have one but also how difficult it is to be the sole source of nutrition for another human being. Hang in there, sis!

mother's week out

2007-08-19T21:02:00.000-07:00

That's right Mom is leaving for the week. Well, I still have to finish a 10 hour work day tomorrow and get packed but I leave at 6:15am Tuesday to FINALLY go meet my nephew!!!
I am packing only one suitcase - for myself:) I am converting my diaper bag into a carry on for my toys. It will fit but it's a tight squeeze in it's case - plus all of my magazines and I don't want to forget a snack.
I am almost more excited about the solo plane trip than seeing my nephew for the 1st time - JUST KIDDING! I can't believe he is almost a month old and I haven't met him yet. I had to let the dust settle after my mom has camped out there for 3 weeks. She has left a tough act to follow though - doing all the meals, cleaning and up and ready to take on baby duty beginning at 5am each day! I know I can do it:)
I am sad to leave my sweet family - having lots of fun with my boys lately but I am certain absence will make the heart grow even fonder - for all of us.
I am excited to see my little sis in her new role that she is so perfect for! I will update on my adventures while I am gone. Until then - prayers for my travels and for my family!

busy weekend

2007-08-05T19:28:00.001-07:00

Well we had planned to spend Luke's birthday weekend by celebrating with a camping trip - just like the previous two years - but the ban on campfires and the smoke looming in the air already put that on the back burner - so to speak. Check out what the smoke filled skies has done to the sunsets right off our back deck.

Fun was still had by all. We made our way to Dickey Lake to escape the smoke and splash in the cool, clear water.

Luke loved opening presents - turning 4 was a hit! Owen was napping at the time so he missed all the fun! We have yet to have an "official" birthday party for him - we are holding out until he turns 5.

Owen helped Dad was his truck while Luke took his turn at a car nap. He got soap all over - guess that stuff isn't as gentle as his bubble bath - he broke out all over!!!

These guys are still into their popsicles...

Owen must have pretty worn out after washing the car - that and he only had one nap today. He fell asleep at dinner - corn dogs couldn't even keep him awake.

Luke's birthday cake and our singing couldn't even keep him awake...

Luke loved his cake, don't ya think???

who says you can't lick your elbow? I guess if you are four and blue icing is involved it can be done...

Overall, I'd say the 4th birthday was a success and it's not even over. Dad is taking the day off work to play with Luke tomorrow too!!! YIPEE!!!

more?

2007-07-28T07:09:00.000-07:00

It's way too cute. Big O has become a little motor mouth. The main word we can make out is "Mo" or more and he is even signing it (thanks Kid Kare). Of course, it is reference to food - so glad this little guy is starting to eat more. Fruit is all that he asks for "mo" of which makes for nasty deposits in the diaper bank but at least it's good for him.

too much time

2007-07-25T13:37:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when I have too much time on my hands...
(I know there are a zillion things piled up around for me to do but this is what I succumb to).

I would have to say my sweet hubby makes most of these fantasies into realities for me except the last one. But there is always room for improvement, right?

Trials of Parenthood

2007-07-25T09:33:00.001-07:00

I haven't been able to sleep very well for the past several nights (which is not like me), so when O started fussing last night at 1:30am I pretended to be so sound asleep so my hard of hearing husband would eventually hear the monitor (which is on my side of the bed) and go take care of the poor little guy - such a bad mom and a bad wife!!!
Well - here is the payback...
I hear this voice through the monitor, "Honey - he puked all over his crib."
Great! So up I go to take off all of the sour smelling, oh so nasty bedding (love the snap on ultimate crib sheet) while dad changes the kiddo and tries to wash the muck out of his hair.
Just as I take the sheets to the washer Luke comes out to share that he peed the bed! Love it!
Well - lets strip another bed and wash all the ick together!
Well by 2:40am the whole house is back to sleep.
Bummer though - I had to re-wash the whole load in the morning - yeah - forgot to put the soap in the machine in the middle of the night!!!
Anyway - so I went into work before O woke up (6am) so I could line up a few things and not have to been in at my normal time (7am). Then came home to shower and let him sleep in a little longer while dad took Luke to school. He woke up just as I got out of the shower. Had a nice bubble bath - but still couldn't get all of the stench out of his lovely locks. He ate a great breakfast - kept asking for more which made me a bit nervous. He then was off to play around the house and was in a terrific mood.
So - I continued to get ready to go into work. O even went to get his shoes and his hat - he wanted to head out of the house too. Well - I get to day care and they want him to be symptom free for 24 hours - I never remember these rules because my kiddos hardly ever get sick. I could take him to Dinosore (sick child care - free for hospital employees) but since I had the day at work pretty much covered I decided I should hang out with the little guy. Such the trials of a working mom - so tough when the little guys are sick - I just have to take the time away to sit and hold them until they feel better.
He seems to feel fine - taking a nice nap now so mom gets to blog. We will see how the day goes - so far so great!

Does summer get anymore fun than this?

2007-07-22T20:14:00.000-07:00

Watermelon on Nana & Papa's front porch

Junk food while camping with friends

Cooling off in a crystal clear lake while surrounded by the greatest scenery ever

God is too good!

Tyler Jonas

2007-07-19T15:29:00.001-07:00

My nephew made it into the world this morning at 8:49am central time - weighing 7lbs 11oz and 19 1/2 inches long (just like his cousin O).
All is well - my sis a little groggy from the drugs for her C-section but she is quite happy to meet her little guy!!!
My mom flew down Tuesday so she is there to enjoy all of the excitement along with the inlaws - they now live in Houston too!
So glad to see our family growing and quite handsomely:)

nephew

2007-07-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

Anxiously awaiting the arrival of my nephew.
He will enter the world on Thursday, July 19th.
Stay tuned for more info...

adult activity

2007-07-07T20:33:00.000-07:00

Don't get excited...we just stained our deck.
It makes me feel so old that these are my duties in life now.
We still need to finish the fence but maybe next weekend.
We did well tonight b/c we did it after the boys were in bed. 1- they went to bed early as we had been out late the night before at some friends for dinner and 2- the sun is up so late here that we have plenty of daylight to get it done.
I am sure you will all be on the edge of your seats to find out what fun I have in store for tomorrow...
just heading up to my parents to return their pressure washer while Joe works on building an entertainment center for my uncle. My dad is to deliver it when he drives to down to meet his new grandson - which is coming up REALLY quick!!!

nite out

2007-06-30T13:25:00.000-07:00

had a nice evening out with some girlfriends from work.
yummy dinner and drinks at bigfork inn
then a play at bigfork summer playhouse - we saw Sugar - very funny and well done
not something i get to do too often but so enjoyable especially after a long work week. didn't get home until 1130pm - i don't even know how to drive at night anymore...

another one under our belt

2007-06-30T13:16:00.000-07:00

that's right - did another Bilau family 5K today. hated that we had to wake up so early and wake luke up (are we nuts???) but the morning was beautiful! i am certain that EVERY muscle in my lower body will hurt tomorrow but we did it and had a great time. luke actually won a metal!!!
came home and washed the burb. now owen is napping and luke is following his dad around outside so i get to blog.
looking forward to an afternoon of possibly running a few errands as a family and then grilling out tonight. a wonderful family saturday!!! i am a happy camper:)
tomorrow may be a different tune...working church nursery at 830am and then daddy has to run off to FINALLY finish up his cabinet job!

cell phones

2007-06-28T22:39:00.000-07:00

This is kind of a late night post for me but I thought it was worth it. I mean people need to know why we have cell phones in Montana.
This is the message that was left on my cell phone tonight..."Forrest? This is June from the Food Bank. Listen, I just got a call that there was an elk hit on the road near Essex and a moose in Coram. Now, we need someone to go shot it, or both of them I guess. So, if you are anywhere near any of those areas would you call and let me know if you can help us out? It's 11:40

how the day goes...

2007-06-28T08:55:00.000-07:00

Intentions.
My day off rarely goes as I intend for it to but it always seems to be the same.
My mom was coming by today to drop off their two dogs while she and my dad take a little trip without them.
I had invisioned her watching the boys for a few moments while I took a shower at a decent time of day. I foolishly even thought maybe I could go run an errand and grab a peaceful lunch on my own. No such luck. She was in and out of here by 9am. Oh well, such is life.
I can't seem to be happy or satisfied with anything these days - perhaps I am losing my mind?!?! I would rather be home with my boys than be working but when I am home with them I'd like to be getting a few things done solo during the day. Working mom's can't win. There ends up being no time for yourself.
Praying that I can keep my intentions good and for the good of others and not myself. I need to nuture my heart to be content with the selfless role God has for me to fill.
On with the battle! I will be sure to post if anything "out of the ordinary" does get to occur on my day off with the boys:)

Yipee!!!

2007-06-24T14:04:00.000-07:00

So we did Shrek but I wasn't impressed! Luke stayed awake the whole time - we were home and in bed by 12:15am! Owen remained buckled in his car seat and fell asleep just as the movie began at 10pm. We have done our drive-in outing for the summer.
I am thrilled to announce that I have another life to peek on while online. My buddy Kim has created a blog! So excited to have her publishing in the blog world too! Her boys are starting to look like carbon copies of each other - hopefully not with the temper tantrums too!
I will try post more as I will be checking up on Kim too:)
Welcome, Kimmy!!!

To Shrek or not to Shrek?

2007-06-20T20:02:00.000-07:00

I love that we have a drive in movie theater. It doesn't feel like summer unless we make it there once during the season. The problem...the gates don't even open until 9:45pm because the sun doesn't go down until 10pm. My kiddos are usually on there way to bed by 7pm - not sure if it will even work.

Of course, it is a double feature - no way we EVER make it. Spiderman 3 isn't that appealing to me anyway since we haven't seen any of them.

The cost is $10/vehicle. You can bring all your own snacks/meal, etc. The kiddos can be dress up in their pjs too:)

When we tried to go to Cars last year but apparently everyone gets there at least an hour before the gate opens to line up. There were no spots left by the time we arrived. Try to explain that to a 2 year old:(

We will arrive early and may go tomorrow night rather than fight with the Friday or Saturday crowd.

We will also try to drive around before hand to get Big O to retire in his car seat. It was no problem when he was only months old last year. We shall see:)

Will be back with update and movie review!!!

update

2007-06-10T16:16:00.001-07:00

So much to update...my baby is now 13 months old. That's right, I didn't even blog about his 1st birthday!!! Life is too hectic but I know that someone out there values this blog so I will work hard to keep things updated.

Then we made a trip to Houston to visit my sister and brother-in-law. The boys really enjoyed playing out in the warm weather and enjoying the water at parks and the beach.

Now we have just returned from a week in the Black Hills of South Dakota. We met Joe's parents along with his brother and sister-in-law and their two kiddos. The only members of the family that were left out were all the dogs - no pets at the rental house.

Lainey is only 3 months old and she was such a trooper - as were mom and dad to travel with such a little one. Casey just turned 3 years old and Luke had tons of fun with him - both fighting and playing. With two younger siblings these two will learn to share their toys soon!!!

We had a great time meeting up with family and look forward to doing it again. No other summer travels for us really. I plan to make a trip down south again when my nephew is born - solo trip - love it!!! We will hopefully do lots of camping around here too!
Will be better at updating my post...promise!

Classic

2007-04-25T19:21:00.000-07:00

Well we did it! For daddy's "break" from his big woodworking projects we all did a 5K on Sunday. Well, Luke did walk quite a bit of it. Just doesn't seem to want to stay in the wonderful double bike trailer/stroller we practically stole at Costco - such a deal for this thing. Anyway - he was in and out quite a bit. But he did enjoy holding hands and running with his basketball and Kid Kare buddy Aiden.

He did finally fall and scrape his knee which meant he yelled and rode in the stroller for the final mile. Mixed emotions about which was better Luke in the stroller or out.
When out - he ran or whined like a maniac.
When in - the stroller increased in resistance by 2/3 - poor daddy.
When out - the pace slowed:)
When in - meant that mommy had to run:(

enjoying pretzels with Aiden after the race...

Big O was such a trooper - never cried in that stroller. He loved having his big brother in there with him. He never napped though - really almost the whole day! I worked the nursery at church so Owen was busy watching all the big kids - no sleep. Brief nap on the way home to eat cram in lunch before the "race". No nap during the "race" and then too crabby and hungry to sleep after the "race". Very early to bed though:)

Now in the thick of a LONG work week - working everyday this week to cover vacation for an employee - ugh! It's hump day though:)

More to come...

party

2007-04-15T06:41:00.000-07:00

well the good news is my house is clean. bad news is i'm exhausted from cleaning and from being social.
i helped a friend of our's and hosted a party for her business at my home. the stuff isn't amazing and a little pricey. i guess i am too much of a bargain shopper. the baskets would be useful though. nice to have a few folks over - mostly gals from work and only one of my new neighbors even though i'd invited lots of my new bunco friends. i swore i wouldn't have any activities at my home until we painted - everything is such a blah color. but since it's almost been a year since we moved and still no paint i had to give in. the food was easy - had leftover fruit cut up and fruit dip - i had brought it to Bunco on Tuesday of this week. also had amish friendship bread (thanks - brenda) made into a nice bundt cake. the party was at 1030 so no real food was required:)
joe took the boys for a few hours (nice to have my house so quite). he ended up having to take o back to urgent care - he still has his rash on his boy parts. turns out we were on track with it being a yeast infection so continuing with the anti-fungal cream - hate that i have to say that about an 11 month old precious little boy. he also has another ear infection (the original instigator of this rash business) - they gave us samples of antibiotics for the next ten days. kudos to dad for handling 2 little guys at urgent care for 2 hours on a busy saturday - then tackling walmart to fill what we thought was a prescription for o's antifungal cream but turns out it was just the over the counter equate stuff i had purchased on thursday - thanks for the tip j!
anyway we are all on the mend. joe and i ordered pizza last night and watched flicka - nice movie but i just am not crazy about horses but good story.
now daddy is off finishing the install of his current cabinet job and should be home by noon for a costco outing - what fun. i can't wait for the 4 of us to go do something together - it's been a lot of split parenting lately - i hate that tag team feeling. divide and conquer doesn't work for too long with me - i prefer the group approach to parenting. weather permitting daddy has softball practice this afternoon - maybe we will all attend???

gift

2007-04-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

my baby will be one in a few weeks!!!!
what to get him??? he has so much already but i can't not get him anything.
i'm thinking of this
how to celebrate?
we have yet to have to give our oldest a birthday party so i don't plan on changing that tradition. probably just have nana and papa over for cake???
looking forward to church tomorrow, an Easter egg hunt at nana and papa's and a yummy meal - may get to 70 degreees!!! Was in the 60's today - got some gardening done. cut back some things that probably should have been done in the fall and a few weeds. now for some new mulch. tulips and daffodils are making there way through:)
sorry for the few and far between blogs but those that do read this most likely are updated plenty in the lives of the bilau's:)

getting older

2007-03-25T18:48:00.000-07:00

well i have loved celebrating my birthday for 5 days now!
i am such a blessed girl!
wednesday got flowers at work from janet - they really brightened my day. that night we got take-out ribs from a yummy place called The Back Room. i think i didn't even finish all of my ribs so i could mow down the fry bread and french fries with ranch dressing:)
i had the day off thursday (my actual birthday) daddy took the boys to daycare while i got ready at my leisure and had an hour massage at 10am. joe had given me a gift certificate for one at valentines day. she also does 2 hour massages - maybe i can get that one next year. met my mom to go to lunch and do some shopping (if you can call it that in our neck of the woods). just used some coupons from the paper for this fancy place. spent the rest of the night cleaning up the house and preparing for dinner for 6 adults, 2 boys and one infant for the next night.
did have to head back to the real world friday - work. left by about 1:15 though. a classmate of mine from PT school was in town from dallas while her husband interviewed for a job. i showed her around our medical center and then returned her to her swanky lodgings in Whitefish. that allowed me to grab a Quickee (yummy sandwich) and then check on some shoes for big O and myself at the Toggery - mine were 40% off - can't beat that.
my godson (hunter) came to town from Helena - with his parents to check in with his ENT would recently moved to Kalispell from Great Falls for a check up on his ear tubes. My classmate from PT school and her husband, Will joined us for dinner that night too. We stayed up to midnight:)
Saturday we had a nice breakfast with Scott, Tana & Hunter then they headed to Missoula for a night at the Wingate for hunter to try out the water slides without his ear plugs. owen woke up with eye boogers once again so i spent another 2 hours in medical care - 1 1/2 waiting at urgent care and another 1/2 hour at wal-mart to get more eye drops ($66 worth this time). then we headed to my parents for dinner and to stay the night.
sunday am meant a hurried breakfast so we could be out the door and make it to church for joe to do the 930 reading and i helped out in the nursery - owen's 1st time!
the afternoon was spent getting our house back in order and trying to make the laundry pile somewhat smaller. by 5pm the babysitter was here and our friends mike and vicki had arrived so we could head to dinner in order to celebrate my birthday (once again) as well as mike's (which was actually today).
now settling in for the sunday night blues to begin. the boys are in bed and joe and i are relaxing on the couch taking in cold case and without a trace.
on with life....

baby week

2007-03-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

What an exciting week for my extended family.

On tuesday, march 6th - Alaine Marie (aka Lainey) was born to my brother in law and sister in law in Omaha. She joins Casey Michael who will be 3 years old in May.

On wednesday, my sister and her husband found out that a boy will join the family in July!

Waht fun!!!

Haircut

2007-02-26T18:03:00.000-07:00

Well its time for a spring cut! I am going to go short...any preferences?
Choice 1
Choice 2
Choice 3
Choice 4
Choice 5
Choice 6
Choice 7
I have an appt for tomorrow afternoon - I am so excited to leave work a little early!!! I enjoy my long locks and being able to pull it back but I want a break for a bit. I will grow it back out this summer most likely.
I welcome any input!

spur of the moment

2007-02-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

Gotta hand it to Joe, he paged me Friday at work and stated he was going to attempt to find a last minute babysitter so we could go out to dinner with our friends, Danny and Rhonda.
He left a message on Chelsea's cell phone and once she was done with school she called back and accepted the challenge.
She showed up at 6:50pm - just as I was finishing up giving Owen a bottle and putting him down for the night. He was so tired - been moving around a little too much.
So she had it pretty easy, Luke was already fed, bathed and in pjs. Just ready to sit down with his friend and watch Nemo.
We were home before 9pm as Danny and Rhonda's oldest wasn't feeling well and the youngest wanted them to come bring her home from their friends' house (they always get free babysitters - no fair).
Anyway - it was a quick, impromptu night out and a great end to my work week.
Luke did another ski lesson with Daddy Saturday am - actually used the chair lift for two runs. Then had a basketball game in the afternoon - this go 'round he's got a new coach and a whole new team. It is not quite as organized and will take a little getting used to.
Sunday was a trip up to Nana and Papa's to get some firewood for Daddy's shop. Luke tried his snowshoes out for the 1st time - did pretty well and Mommy didn't do too bad with her snowshoes on and Owen in the backpack carrier. Lots of warm sunshine for us to soak up for a change too.
Now we are preparing to do some traveling back and forth to Nana and Papa's this week. Joe has friends coming in town from Nebraska for a ski weekend.
My dad turns 60 on Thursday - WOW! Where has the time gone - must mean I am getting up there too! Ugh!

V-day

2007-02-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

Still not used to my day off as Thursday instead of Wednesday (only my 2nd week on this schedule). Wednesday was a holiday of sorts though and I made it through. Wednesday truly is hump day for me now.
Joe and I made it out to Qdoba for lunch - yummo nachos!!! Couldn't do dinner with my valentine as he was on duty at church youth group - driving the bus - too funny! So I brought Arby's home to have with my other sweetie.
Lots of sugar came home in cute Valentine bags from Kid Kare for both boys. Owen has recently moved to a different room at Kid Kare - with one year olds although he is only 9 months. They actullay had him painting! What happened to cuddling with my cute baby boy? This baby phase is passing too quickly as it is - I am not ready for all of this.
Anyway - Joe did better than flowers...a 1 hour massage gift certificate! Can't wait to use that - now it is just finding the time. Haven't even been able to schedule a haircut for myself lately!
Luke scored a wooden Henry - which he asked for weeks ago - not sure why he thought gifts were given for Valentine's day - he is getting too smart. Therefore, I had to get little O something.
Joe got a new belt. Not sure it was really something he wanted but definitely something he needed. Perhaps my gift for him wasn't quite as thoughtful as his for me - oops!
Anyway - life goes on! Time to take down the heart decorations - do I even bother with shamrocks???

Luke's 1st ski

2007-02-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

Luke had his 1st "ski lesson" with daddy on Big Mountain today!

He did well - had fun - albeit short lived. He certainly has the energy level, just not the attention span!

He rode the magic carpet up and used the harness and ski tip holders. Hopefully we will break free of those before too long but so far so good!

Owen enjoyed being in the backpack carrier with the cool air and sunshine while mommy took pics of big bro! I know that in a few years Joe and I won't be able to find them on the Mountain - why exactly are we teaching him to ski???

shut it down vs. invite only

2007-01-28T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well, this is my dilemma. Do I shut down my blog having only used it for a month or do I limit the eyes that can view it?

I mentioned earlier in the week that my sister and brother in law were expecting a baby. I did include their last name - which is a bit unusal. My brother in law has a friend that used some type of webcraweler to look up my brother in law's name - came across my blog and sent him a text message saying "congrats" on the baby to be! Ugh! Now I am the worse sister in law or what???

At this point I will limit my blog to invite only - not that it is so prestigious that folks must be invited to be updated on my day to day happenings but I do not need the whole world examining my life and the lives of those that I love.

Once again - what is this crazy world coming to that we have to look out for all of the crazies!!!

Speaking of crazies...Loic Rogers was found dead in th bottom of a septic tank by the home where he disappeared. Not sure of all the details yet as they haven't released them all - he did drown, the lid was put back on the tank (not sure how a 3 year old could do that) and I think they had to drain the tank to find him - not sure how/why they thought to drain a septic tank. Anyway - sad, sad story!

We did make it to Missoula to pick up our new furniture -

We are short our chair as it arrived damaged - they will deliver a new one to us a couple of weeks.
We need to condition it all tonight but then it should be good to go! Now to decide on new throw pillows, colors for the walls and what entertainment center and tables I want Joe to build:) What fun!

Amber Alert

2007-01-25T20:11:00.000-07:00

Loic Rogers has been missing for 24 hours now.

I cannot even imagine what his family is going through!

What in the world is happening to our society! It seems so doubtful at this point that he has just wandered off, especially with the vast number of folks in our community out there looking for him for so long.

Pray for Loic. Pray for his family. Pray for the hearts of us all! Man do we need Jesus or what?

Bummed

2007-01-24T22:20:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I am going to miss it!

I received a letter/e-mail Sunday to plan a 10 year reunion at my collegiate alma mater with my sorority sisters. Thanks for thinking of me Crosby!!!

Saturday I purchased plane tickets for my family to fly to Houston to visit my sister and brother in law.

Really don't think both trips will be able to happen.

I am so bummed!

Don't get me wrong, I love where we live. Joe and I feel so fortunate to be so young and already live in our dream place. Despite the cut in pay we are living where we want to live and enjoying it to the fullest. This is where most folks hope to retire to or at least vacation here sometime in their lifetime.

Being all the way out here in Montana certainly keeps me out of the loop. I try to make it Kansas City to catch up my old friends whenever we make it to the Midwest but to actually make it to Aggieville again - never thought it could happen - looks like it won't for at least another 5 years!

Also - don't get me wrong, I can't wait to visit Sam and Ali! This will be the last pre-baby visit! That's right - the boys will have a cousin Hinkie at the end of July! That also means I will get to take another trip down South this year (without kiddos)!

I will certainly miss the opportunity to re-connect with my friends though! I truly value the friendships I developed with Kim, Crosby, Palmer, Levell, Shannon & Funston. I thoght those days would last forever and now it seems that so much has changed!

Life is good and we are so blessed!

Kelly

tearjerker

2007-01-21T20:30:00.000-07:00

Well - I did get done with work on time Saturday to make it to the wedding of one of the occupational therapists I have worked with for a few years. She married an orthotist in town (what a nice professional combo). Wedding was small but nice.

The groom has a 4 year old son, Tyler. Not sure there was a prior marriage and I think Brian has been raising the little boy himself. Anyway, after Brian and Rhiana exchange their vows, unbeknownst to anyone but the pastor officiating - Rhiana bends down and says some vows to her new step son.

The tears were flowing and here I was the mother of two snot nosed boys and had to dig in my seatbelt bag for about 10 minutes before I could find a tissue! Sometimes that purse is just a bit too big - allows me to keep too much onboard and can never find what I need fast enough.

Didn't make it to the reception. Ran a few errands - without kiddos as they were up at Nana and Papa's and without my husband worrying about where I was - he as preoccupied with building some cabinets in his new shop (aka - the mistress).
Came home to get changed and head out to dinner for Joe's 33rd birthday (actually to be officially celebrated on January 22nd) with our friends Danny and Rhonda. Actually, ended up being a poor meal but the company was great. They had to head home by 9:30pm - had grandma and grandpa watching their girls at their house so had to rescue them.
With no little ones for us to come home to, we head to Red's for a live jazz ensemble (La Nota) and a cold draft. Only spent about 30 minutes http://www2.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifthen headed to Blockbuster for candy (MIlk Duds and Dots) and movie - also quick stop by the convience store for a fountain Dr. Pepper. We both only lasted about 20 minutes into the movie. At least we have until Wednesday to finish it up.
Could only sleep in until 6:30am - ugh! Creatures of habit!!!
Got up and ready early. Headed to Whitefish for breakfast and then 9:30am service at Church.
Up to my parents for lunch and to pick up the boys.
Now settling in for the Sunday night blues:(
May try our next outing in a couple of weeks for this:
Sounds really fun - who couldn't use a marriage pick me up?

2 weeks notice

2007-01-16T19:40:00.000-07:00

That's right only 2 weeks! One of the PTs that works for me put in her notice Friday:( She works 4 days/week - lots of time to fill. I already feel in over my head lately - work days lasting close to 10 hours - ugh!
So if you know of any PTs that need some work - send them my way asap!

We had a great weekend this past weekend. Drove down to Missoula and purchased some new living room furniture - leather couch, loveseat, chair and ottoman. She assures us it will outlast our taste and she saw the force of Luke that will be infilicted upon the new furniture - hope our investment will hold up!

Went to an amzing tap dance performance Sunday afternoon - Feat by Feet. So hard to believe all those performers were still in high shcool - amazing talent - certainly made me feel LAZY!

Looking forward to my day off tomorrow with the kiddos! I have to work Saturday this week too so 5 days - ugh! Will try to go out and celebrate Joe's birthday Saturday night while Nana and Papa take the boys over night - 1st time for Owen! Now that he is strictly bottle fed should go okay!

Until then - K

Uni

2007-01-07T10:37:00.000-07:00

Can't decide which is worse...being boobless or lopsided???

Thought the nursing stent was over. Gave Owen a bottle at bedtime last night rather than breastfeeding. Even started packing up the nursing bras that were still in good shape in case we venture into parenthood again. But lo' and behold I woke up at 2am in a puddle of my own exretions - breastmilk.

Maybe I do still have it?

Unfortunately it was only one side - that's where the "uni" and "lopsided" comments come in.

I guess I will see how difficult it is to live life one sided.

The feeding drama continues:)

BUST

2007-01-06T14:07:00.000-07:00

That's right this mama is going boobful to boobless again:(

My bout with the stomach flu got me a little too dehydrated, I have nothing left to offer Big O (aka - Owen).

I am going to keep trying to breastfeed him when he wakes up and goes to bed but fearful that may just be a comfort thing (for him and for me) rather than of any nutrional value.

The good news is I am over my illness just weak and thirsty. Lost 6 pounds but will no doubt find them all and then some soon!!!

I headed back to work Friday to put in 11 hours - ugh!!! I was not up to the challenge so the weekend will be mellow - love it!

Well keep you apprised of the feeding situation for Owen - staring at approximately 30 oz of frozen milk - daycare still has 2-3x that I think. Otherwise, we are heading to Costco for some Kirkland formula - delicious. I hear my pocketbook crying already!

WARNING - this is a graphic post (most mothers can handle it though)!

2007-01-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

What is worse than being a working mom?

Being a working mom that is home sick!

When you have alone time in your home there is so much that could be done - pack up the Christmas decor, 10 loads of laundry, find a home for excess toys, etc. But not today:(

That's right, I've got a good case of the sickets. The double-ender flu - that I most likely contracted from a zillion patients I worked with Tuesday or my sweet 8 month old who had diarrhea all day yesterday on my day off (guess he wasn't just teething).

I retreated to bed early last night with a head cold and the onset of nausea - couldn't even eat the dinner I had prepared for my family:( Not like me at all.

I awoke at 5am to have yesterday's gormet noon meal of pepperoni Hot Pockets revisit me (I barely made it into the bathroom and poor Joe's sink was the 1st thing I encountered). Then straight to the toilet for the South to have a victory - UGH!

I thought I might as well shower and clean myself - plus if I am going to make it to work it will be a PAINFULLY slow process.

Felt somewhat better after the initial mishaps and got dressed and ready for the day. Our family of four made it out the door together at 645am (typical). I had to make dad drive - didn't trust myself. We both dropped kiddos off at Kid Kare and the he chauffered me to work.

I did get some computer work done and got the ball rolling for some therapists to help cover our case load - by 8am I was walking over to Joe's parking lot to tackle the drive home (only a few miles but it was touch and go).

I know I don't need to subject anyone to my sickness and I am too weak to do much of anything.

So now I decided to *blog* since I have the time and no energy to do much more. Between waves of wondering if the North or the South will rise again I can enjoy my wireless internet from my comfy cave of a bedroom - would hate to venture to the living room and be that much further from the toilet.

So far the South remains victorious - which I guess is good - closer to having all of this over with. I feel so helpless. Nothing in my system but 10 ounces of Sprite and 3 1/2 graham crackers - I am not made to function on so little!!!

Sorry to make such brutual post but this is all I can offer:(

I promise I will take the time to *blog* the up moments in life too. I just seem to have the time today and I am unfortunately consumed with the downs.

time with santa 2006

2006-12-28T21:33:00.000-07:00

We did attempt a Christmas card photo with Santa but this is all we got.

So we created our own blissful setting at our own pace...

Hope Christmas remains in your heart all year!!!

For you, J!!!

2006-12-28T21:17:00.000-07:00

Well, call it an added Christmas gift or a New Year's resolution - I may try to blog. Just for you, J. I may have trouble keeping up with this but I will try to open the window to my life.

Here is to bloggin'!

Love - K