Jayce has a theory about why he behaves badly at times. Basically, he sums it up this way -- "Mom, when I'm too hot or too cold my brain gets a crack in it and I can't control myself. When it gets back to normal I can control myself again."
And today he reiterated this point after provoking his sister. "Mom, my brain controls me. I can't do anything about it."
I began to think it was time to stop reading him his anatomy book. The book explains that the brain controls our feelings, thoughts, actions, etc. He's using this info a little too literally to avoid responsibility. I tried to explain that ultimately he's the one that controls his brain, but he refused to consider such logic (why would he? This excuse serves him so well).
But as the day progressed, I thought about this theory of his. I think he may have a point. In fact, I should alert the scientific community! Temperature fluctuations must cause bad behavoir because I'm certainly suffering that malady. The heat has literally sapped my patience and kindness, and I deserve a big Grade F for my mothering skills this past week. I am grateful that Jayce has provided me an excuse -- it's not me, it's that darn crack! Thanks, son! And to think I was feeling guilty. :)
Monday, July 20, 2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Olio
Since this is a form of family journaling, I guess I should include the recent milestones in the Pikes' lives.
On Thursday Jayce had a tonsillectomy, ear tube insertion, and partial adenoidectomy (the surgeon discovered leftover adenoid tissue from Jayce's previous surgery). Anyway, it was a little more involved than we had anticipated. After five previous surgeries, you would think I'd be a pro, but I've been in tears on and off the last month . . . the anticipation kills me every time! However, post-op, I rise to the occasion and get into full nurturing mode, so I've been tough since.
Jayce is doing well, but with each day his symptoms get worse. Huh? We had two successful days of eating and drinking, but today he can't bear to swallow. He's taken up miming and is awfully good at it. Poor kid! Sore ears and throat, banned from playing with friends, and stuck at home -- we'll probably have a few more days of this. He'll bounce back soon, I'm sure!!!
In other medical news, my brother is back in the hospital when a lung collapsed (again). He's the one I feel sorriest for! The thoracic surgeon removed the upper part of his left lung this morning and also created scar tissue so the lung has something to adhere to -- seriously, sounds intense. Recovery should be long and painful. My poor, poor bro! Feel better, Bry!
AND, I insist on lightening up this post --
In GRAND, WONDERFUL news, Jer just started a new job yesterday. Don't ask me his title or the company name -- he's handling the finances for a group of entrepreneurs running various companies. His previous employment was so miserable and was a huge strain on our family life (he was never home!). This opportunity came immediately and he jumped on it -- and not a moment too soon! We've been so desperate for a change. Can I just say how relieved and happy I am? Prayers have been answered!
And 79 more days until our little boy's anticipated arrival. I remember when I first posted that silly fetus pic, I had 220-something days left. I wanted to cry buckets when I looked at that huge, daunting number. I remember thinking, "If I can only make it to double digits, I know I'll get through it." Well, I hit double digits more than 20 days ago, so this girl is pleased as punch! Ten weeks is still awhile, but the end is in sight (unlike my feet, my cute physique -- okay, debatable -- and my energy level). Yay for babies that eventually come!! :)
On Thursday Jayce had a tonsillectomy, ear tube insertion, and partial adenoidectomy (the surgeon discovered leftover adenoid tissue from Jayce's previous surgery). Anyway, it was a little more involved than we had anticipated. After five previous surgeries, you would think I'd be a pro, but I've been in tears on and off the last month . . . the anticipation kills me every time! However, post-op, I rise to the occasion and get into full nurturing mode, so I've been tough since.
Jayce is doing well, but with each day his symptoms get worse. Huh? We had two successful days of eating and drinking, but today he can't bear to swallow. He's taken up miming and is awfully good at it. Poor kid! Sore ears and throat, banned from playing with friends, and stuck at home -- we'll probably have a few more days of this. He'll bounce back soon, I'm sure!!!
In other medical news, my brother is back in the hospital when a lung collapsed (again). He's the one I feel sorriest for! The thoracic surgeon removed the upper part of his left lung this morning and also created scar tissue so the lung has something to adhere to -- seriously, sounds intense. Recovery should be long and painful. My poor, poor bro! Feel better, Bry!
AND, I insist on lightening up this post --
In GRAND, WONDERFUL news, Jer just started a new job yesterday. Don't ask me his title or the company name -- he's handling the finances for a group of entrepreneurs running various companies. His previous employment was so miserable and was a huge strain on our family life (he was never home!). This opportunity came immediately and he jumped on it -- and not a moment too soon! We've been so desperate for a change. Can I just say how relieved and happy I am? Prayers have been answered!
And 79 more days until our little boy's anticipated arrival. I remember when I first posted that silly fetus pic, I had 220-something days left. I wanted to cry buckets when I looked at that huge, daunting number. I remember thinking, "If I can only make it to double digits, I know I'll get through it." Well, I hit double digits more than 20 days ago, so this girl is pleased as punch! Ten weeks is still awhile, but the end is in sight (unlike my feet, my cute physique -- okay, debatable -- and my energy level). Yay for babies that eventually come!! :)
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Why I love Provo
In one of my religion classes at BYU, the instructor asked us to introduce ourselves. As people rattled off their various hometowns, I felt a little sheepish as my turn approached. When I announced my upbringing, I qualified my comment by saying something like "I'm just from Provo." The professor then stopped and asked, "Why are people apologetic about being from Provo? I think it's a great place to grow up." That remark has stuck with me. I had a FANTASTIC time growing up in P-town, and now I'm not ashamed to say it. Yes, it's sheltered, and yes, it's quirky, and yes, it has its faults. But that's part of Provo's charm.
To demonstrate, here are some highlights from the Freedom Festival Parade:
I mean, really, where else would missionaries get a wild standing ovation?
Where else would one see her father cruising in a golf cart, managing the festivities (my dad is shaded in the green shirt). I love my family, and they live in Provo. Another connection.
And there's a tank passing my beloved Provo High School, a place where I made some wonderful life-long friends. Despite the fact that I lived on the west end of town (versus the prestigious east), I never felt badly about that because my peers were so accepting and kind. Maybe I was removed from the drama, but I seriously felt like everyone got along (am I wrong, PHSers?). I was honored to know so many great people.
And we can't forget BYU, born and raised in Provo as well. BYU literally changed Jer's life, and without it we wouldn't be together. I love the beautiful campus and the atmosphere -- you can't get that feeling anywhere else.
Football!!!! (for which this diesel is announcing). I LOVE BYU football. I can't erase the hope I have at the beginning of every season, despite a disappointing previous season. Basketball ranks a close second, and I love men's volleyball as well. We may not be successful every year, but I'm definitely entertained and full of suspense.
And the best part of Provo? Since Jer and I met here, we have created two beautiful children and will be having another one very soon.
So mock Provo all you want -- I'll probably agree with you to some extent. I've never claimed Provo perfection. But your arguments won't sway my opinion. Maybe P-Town's not as cool and hip as other places, but who am I kidding? I'm not cool or hip either. I LOVE PROVO!!!
To demonstrate, here are some highlights from the Freedom Festival Parade:
I mean, really, where else would missionaries get a wild standing ovation?
Where else would one see her father cruising in a golf cart, managing the festivities (my dad is shaded in the green shirt). I love my family, and they live in Provo. Another connection.
And there's a tank passing my beloved Provo High School, a place where I made some wonderful life-long friends. Despite the fact that I lived on the west end of town (versus the prestigious east), I never felt badly about that because my peers were so accepting and kind. Maybe I was removed from the drama, but I seriously felt like everyone got along (am I wrong, PHSers?). I was honored to know so many great people.
And we can't forget BYU, born and raised in Provo as well. BYU literally changed Jer's life, and without it we wouldn't be together. I love the beautiful campus and the atmosphere -- you can't get that feeling anywhere else.
Football!!!! (for which this diesel is announcing). I LOVE BYU football. I can't erase the hope I have at the beginning of every season, despite a disappointing previous season. Basketball ranks a close second, and I love men's volleyball as well. We may not be successful every year, but I'm definitely entertained and full of suspense.
And the best part of Provo? Since Jer and I met here, we have created two beautiful children and will be having another one very soon.
So mock Provo all you want -- I'll probably agree with you to some extent. I've never claimed Provo perfection. But your arguments won't sway my opinion. Maybe P-Town's not as cool and hip as other places, but who am I kidding? I'm not cool or hip either. I LOVE PROVO!!!
Stadium of Fire
Campy? Over-the-top? Worthy of an eye roll? Yes, yes, and yes! Yet I'm drawn to this event all the same. I guess I just love seeing thousands of Utah families descending into one of my favorite places (Lavell Edwards Stadium) to honor our country.
Over the years I've seen the following headliners: Bob Hope, Kenny Loggins, Crystal Gale, Reba, Martina McBride, Natalie Cole, David Hasselhoff (how odd is that?), Rich Little, Mary Hart, Gladys Knight, Miley Cyrus, Beach Boys, Huey Lewis and the News, Mandy Moore, the Jets, Sawyer Brown, Alabama, Brooks & Dunn (yes, an over-supply of country singers), and the Blue Man Group. What an eclectic roster!
Other spectacles have included sky diving, pool diving, jet pack flying, a million firecrackers ignited (worthy of a Guinness record), Donny Osmond zip lining from a helicopter, thousands of coordinated dancers, F-16 flyovers, fire dancing and jump-roping, and giant American flags. Seriously, can you even beat that? No, no you can't . . . so don't even try! :)
And, for all you cougars out there (not BYU alum, but for those women who prefer the younger men), the Jonas Brothers graced the stage this year. Now, I must qualify -- I am not a fan. I know they're a Disney Channel phenomenon, but I'm out the loop on the teeny-bopper scene. I expected a canned performance from an over-produced track, but they actually play instruments and have musical talent. Anyone who plays piano is a kindred spirit indeed! The concert was more enjoyable than I expected. The biggest drawback? The screaming, screeching, hyper girls who surrounded us. I still shudder at the thought of them!
What a view! I love my Wasatch Front.
For those JoBro fans, check out the little guys on the stage -- that's them.
Lovely!
Here's the big firework finale. You might be able to hear the screeching girls in the background. They were horrified by the ash that rained down due to our close proximity. But, seriously, do they realize how much they horrified us? :)
Firework Fun!
Alyssa couldn't bear to look . . . the sounds were just too loud!
Yet she was intrigued . . . .
Sparklers were more her style --
dangerous, yet quiet (like her behavior when she's doing something naughty).
Jayce loved the noises, the sparklers, the fountains -- EVERYTHING! He takes after his uncle Bryan (pictured behind him). Bryan was just released from the hospital after suffering a spontaneous pneumothorax (collapsed lung). What a trooper for hanging out with us that night!
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