Ross & Benjamin's Mom

Introducing...

2009-07-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Benjamin Jones Baron. He was born July 2nd, 2009 at 1:07pm. He weighed 7lbs 9oz. and was 19.5inches long. He's a great baby. He and Jonathan are kindred spirits. He's a great sleeper and a great eater. We're thrilled. Ross doesn't seem to notice, or care, that he has a little brother.

I feel great. Much better than I did while I was pregnant. We're just trying to work out a routine and get ready for the big move at the end of this month.

Viewer Discretion is Advised

2009-05-19T10:08:00.001-07:00

On Saturday night Jonathan hit an elk on his way home from Walmart. It stepped directly in front of him, so he was going about 50-60 mph. He only had minor cuts and bruises, thank goodness. He did go to the emergency room because he hit his head on... something. He's not sure what.

I'm just happy he's alive and that Ross and I were not in the car.

Five of the seven Baron children have been in car accidents this year. I thought that was weird. Three wrecks total. Two of the three involving stupid animals trying to cross the freeway at night. Luckily, no one was seriously injured... except for the animals.

Close, but no.

2009-05-13T22:12:00.000-07:00

I almost cried when I saw this. It's a little tough to see, but that's a minus next to that A. What's ironic is that this is the only subject I actually studied on a weekly basis. It's like being ahead the entire game, only to lose by one point at the buzzer. It's that kind of emptiness.

In other news; I am done with school and got laid off at work. This means I have plenty of time to get ready for baby boy and soak up as much one-on-one time with Ross as I possibly can. How do people go from one to two children? I'm having a lot of mixed emotions and worries about bringing a new baby home.

My step dad had a surgery today to remove his colon cancer. What a blessing early detection is. He seems to be doing well, and we're all eager for him to come home. Especially Ross. He seems out of sorts with out his grandpa.

I am grateful to have a break! I need to finish some much neglected scrapbooking before Benjamin arrives and MAYBE finish the Twilight series. I've been trying to get through Eclipse since July. It may not be meant to be.

I am so grateful for my friends and family. Especially for my beautiful friend, Megan, who asked me today if she could throw me a baby shower. Like I'd say no.

The Park

2009-04-19T03:31:00.000-07:00

Ross and I went to the park today. He was too small to play on most of the slides and things of that sort (and too scared) but he LOVED the swings.

This child is my pride and joy. When I think about my life before I had him it all seems so trite and insignificant.

I can't believe he's almost 15 months old already. He's a really great, laid-back child. It doesn't take much to make him happy, and he is very good about going to bed -- which is a huge blessing.

If circumstances permit, I highly recommend getting yourself one of these.

Secret's Out

2009-03-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

If you've seen me lately you may have thought that I've put on some weight. It's TRUE. I have. About 10 lbs. It's not pretty.

Well, several months ago, about six to be exact, Jonathan and I started wondering if our little pride and joy, Ross, needed a little friend. Ehhhh, we thought about it. Jonathan said, "no way. I don't want to have another baby right now." Okay, fine. I nudged him a little. "But, honey, you and Eric are only 18 months apart and you guys were BFFs growing up." Needless to say, it didn't make much nudging. A couple days later he says, "Well, I guess we should have another baby, then."

Then it occured to me that if I didn't get pregnant in the next two weeks that we'd have to wait another year to try again. You see, I am a full-time student, and while I love a challenge, I did not want to juggle school AND a newborn, all the while recovering from major abdominal surgery. I guess we all have our limits.

About two weeks later I discovered that I was pregnant. Hooray! It worked.

I spent the next 5.5 months hiding it from certain people who will be less supportive of my decision to have another child while STILL in school. I know what they'll say; how will I support another child? Having two is more than double the work, how will I juggle school (and part time job) and TWO babies under 2? It's going to be soooooo hard, you don't even know.

Oh, ye of little faith. It takes a villiage to raise a child, don'cha know?

Sooo, we're moving. Again. Back to Rexburg. UGH, I hate it there. But Jonathan has a couple of great sisters and a mother who can watch the babes while I persue my degree (which I can finish more than a year sooner at BYU-I anyway), and while Jonathan also works & possibly goes to night school (and I did mention he'll go for free since his dad is a professor? Oh, well he will). So, you see, it just makes sense.

The worst part will be leaving Ken, since he loves Ross so much. Ross loves him too. While Ken is home it's like Jonathan and I don't even exist.

Anyway, I was able to keep this all secret for about 5.5 months. I made the mistake of telling my sister who almost immediately blabbed it to the entire family. "Whoops, slipped!" Riiight. I was mostly mad because it was becoming a game to me. How long can I keep this going?

The answer; about 5.5 months. There's no hiding it anymore, anyway. I am looking a lot like pregnant these days.

Also, it's (another) BOY! Hooray! This is what we wanted. We're naming him Benjamin. Any ideas for middle names? Please, nothing fruity or weird spelling.

Pay it Forward

2009-02-18T19:59:00.000-08:00

So, here's how this game works-the first 3 people to leave a comment on this post will receive, at some point during the year, a handmade gift from me. What it will be and when it will arrive is a total surprise! The catch is that you must participate as well. Before you leave your comment, write up a pay it forward post on your blog to keep the fun going (or be lazy and copy and paste like I did). Then come back, let me know you're going to play and sit back and anticipate the arrival of your gift! Send me an email with your address, to: kabaron@gmail.com

Remember only the first three get a gift....so be quick!

Baby's First

2009-01-28T08:28:00.000-08:00

...birthday

Ross turns one today.

Where did the year go?

Unfortunately, I will be in school from noon until 7:30pm. Also, he woke up this morning (around 3) with a cold. At least he doesn't know it's his birthday.

People keep asking me what we're doing to celebrate.

Nothing. We're having cake (again. We had it on Sunday at my grandma's). Birthdays are a big deal, don't get me wrong, and the first one is a milestone, but I'm not dropping hundreds on a party (for me) that he will never remember. Jonathan and I agreed that once he's old enough to ask for a party, he can have one. Sorry for the rant, I am just sick of people saying, "What? You HAVE to have a party!"

It's sad that he's getting bigger so fast, but it's so amazing to watch him grow. I can't believe how much he learns everyday, and I am excited to see what the next year with him will bring.

Happy Birthday, Ross!

Baby's first

2009-01-15T19:44:00.000-08:00

...professional photo shoot.

Enjoy!

Thirty

2009-01-03T12:46:00.000-08:00

These are pictures of my mother's first child. Jonathon Paul Reed. I guess that makes him my brother, right?

Exactly. Well, he's 30 today. I was looking for some good pictures of him, and the only ones on my computer are of him in desert camo, and/or of him with his ex-fiance (yeah, awkward), so this is what you get.

Some things about Jon; he's a soldier in the U.S. Army. I think he's a staff sargent now. He has served one tour in Iraq, and is leaving soon to do a second. When asked a few years ago if he was planning to re-enlist when the time came he said; "It depends on my mood." He's a prison guard at the Walla Walla State Penn. He's the kind of guy you can call at 3am if you're in a jam. Assuming he's still awake. If he's asleep there's a good chance he won't answer.

My favorite things about Jon are; he's my brother, he's HIL-ARIOUS, he knows more trivia than anyone on the planet (expect MAYBE Ken Jennings). You name it - Music, Movies, Television, Sports, Ex-presidents, etc.

Oh. And yes, ladies, he's single.

Babies First Christmas

2008-12-25T18:48:00.001-08:00

This is my new nephew. Ryan James Rumley. This was his first Christmas. He was born shortly after 8:30 in the morning on Christmas Eve. He was a little over three weeks early, and he's a teeny, little guy. Weighing exactly 5 pounds, and is only 16 inches long. He has to stay in the hospital for a couple more days because he had a little trouble breathing, and had some fluid in his lungs.

Here's my little guy. It's also his first Christmas. He's already 11 months old. You can see how excited he was to open presents. We spent Christmas at home taking naps, watching the House marathon, and eating delicious food! And Ross got to do his favorite thing in the whole world all day -- hang out with grandpa!

I hope everyone had a wonderful and save Christmas!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-22T16:29:00.000-08:00

It's shame church was cancelled yesterday because Ross sure looked cute in his new outfit. I don't understand how people can hate Walmart. Hello, he looks like a million bucks, and the whole thing was like 10 dollars. They have their reasons, and I will shoot them all down... but not now because that's not the intent of this post.

Ross crawls now. And follows me around. Gets into everything. We call him our little bird because whenever we eat he will come up to us and open his mouth and whine until we give him bites. He communicates with us. He smiles, waves, and points.

He's pretty much the best thing ever and all I could ever ask for for Christmas.

I can't believe he's almost 1.

We have no official plans for Christmas. Although, I do have to work ALL day afterwards. Come on, like anyone's going to go to the gym the day after Christmas.

Oh well. Have a safe and Merry Christmas.

Peeved

2008-12-03T15:10:00.000-08:00

Most of my posts tend to be happy ones about my sweet, little boy. But lately I have been sick, tired, and sick & tired. Two weeks left in the semester. A big paper due Friday. A big group project (from hell) due next week. I am convinced that the two men in my group barely passed 8th grade english, so I spent most of my evening last night re-writing the entire paper. Seriously, it was bad. I hate group work.

I just want this week to be over.

I have been anxious about work. It's a work-study. You know, casual - whatever. A girl is leaving and the owner doesn't want to hire anyone else, so I am thinking she is expecting me to pick up the slack, which I can't afford to do. I have management experience, not to brag, it wasn't exactly the highlight of my life. But one thing I learned from people who managed me (well, most of them) is that you have to set your associates up for success. This woman does not do that. Furthermore; whether or not she wants to hire someone else is not my concern. If she doesn't want to do, for whatever reason, SHE needs to put in the extra hours. I am a student, a mother, a wife, a Sunday School teacher. Her gym is the least of my worries.

THEN at work today the ladies, including one of the owners, starting trash talking mormons. Everything they said was 100% untrue. After they ranted openly about how the men in the church don't think women should work, or be held in high regard or hold a high position in any company, and said that we're "like a cult," and that we don't think anyone but ourselves are going to heaven... and that we OPENLY exclude others from that opportunity and priviledge. So, after ALL that I said;

"Well, I guess now would be a bad time to tell you that I'M a Mormon."

::Silence::

"Oh, you are?"

::Awkwardness::

After a few minutes I could tell my boss felt bad. She told me not to be offended by the mormon comment. I assured her that I was not offended because people are misinformed.

Maybe I was, a little bit. I didn't even try to set the record straight, though. I didn't want to get into an arguement. All I said is that they may have had a negative experience with one of our members, and I am aware of the pride problem they have encountered. I mean, I went to BYU-Idaho and had people look down upon me if I skipped devotional to take a nap. Like I had skipped sacrament meeting to go buy beer and cigarettes. Regardless, the church is full of imperfect people who are living according to the dictates of their own consciences. I am one of them.

I just don't appreciate it when a nail technician tries to tell me what mormons believe. Look, I don't try to tell you about methyl methacrylate; don't try to tell me about being a mormon.

I think they were embarrassed... and maybe it's mean and wrong of me, but I am kind of glad.

Be careful when talking religion; even if you THINK you know what you're talking about. You never know who could be listening.

Tagged!

2008-11-15T22:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks, Michelle!

1. Did you date someone from your school? Alex Barrett & Michael Neuenschwander.

2. What kind of car did you drive? A '93 Honda Accord.

3. Did you pass your drivers test on your first try? Yes

4. Were you a party animal? No

5. Were you considered a flirt? I would say yes.

6. Were you in band, orchestra or choir? Nope

7. Were you a nerd? Not really.

8. Were you on any varsity teams? Varsity Cheer.

9. Did you ever get suspended/expelled? No.

10. Can you still sing the fight song? Yes.

11. Who were your favorite teachers? Mr. Eby and Ms. Rydeski.

12. Where did you sit for lunch? All over. I liked to change it up. I sat with the class below me a lot.

13. What is you schools full name? Columbia High School

14. What is your schools mascot and colors? Coyotes; purple and gold.

15. Did you go to homecoming and with who? Frosh: Scott Palmer; Soph: Branden Gradin; Jr: Dustin Scott; Sr: Jacob Gayda. haha. Kinda random people.

16. If you could go back and do it again would you? There were some good times. Not a lot of worries, but I don't think so.

17. What did you remember most about graduation? I don't. I didn't really pay attention to any of the speeches or anything. I was kind of in awe of the whole thing.

18. Where did you go for senior skip day? They wouldn't let us have one.

19. Were you in any clubs? FFA, FBLA, FHA, Knowledge Bowl... I think that's it...

20. Have you gained some weight since then? I don't want to talk about it...

21. Who was you prom date? Jr: Randy Rees & Sr: Michael Neuenschwander

22. Are you planning on going to your 10 year reunion? Eh, I could take it or leave it.

23. Did you have a job in high school? Nope!

I tag: Sam, Laurel, & Diane.

9 Months

2008-11-06T18:25:00.000-08:00

...and almost on the move! Ross is SO close to crawling, I can't stand it. I think he is a little behind in this area... even though it's not fair to compare. He crawled for the first time tonight, and let me tell you; it was pretty hilarious. Now I guess it's time to baby-proof. ::Sigh::

Last week we went to see Dr. Adkins again. Yes, our doctor is STILL is Pullman, but I don't care. He's great. And I enjoy the drive. Ross now weighs ALMOST 17lbs. Woot! He says "dada" "mama" "dididid" You know, things like that. I can't believe my baby is going to be a year old in a few months. It seems like I just brought him home. He's so interactive and happy. And he has such a little boy personality. I love it.

Well, as the semester comes to a close I get more and more stressed. Ugh. Finals. Ugh. Group projects. UGH UGH! It'll feel so good when it's over, though. School has actually gone pretty well. Although, everyday I have to leave my little guy I feel like my heart is being ripped out of my chest.

I've also recently started working out regularly. Every day I work I run 20 minutes on the eliptical. I am pretty proud of myself. It's hard to motivate yourself that early in the morning, but I feel so much better for the rest of the day. I just can't seem to lose all the baby weight. It really wants to hang on. I am sure you ladies know what I'm talking about. And for all you skinny people -- I'm jealous.

I hope everyone is having a good FALL. I don't like it when it gets dark at 5pm, but I am excited for Thanksgiving, and baby's FIRST Christmas.

Happy Birthday, RLB!

2008-10-28T16:27:00.000-07:00

Seventeen years ago today, Rebekah Lynn Baron was born. She was born in Thousand Oaks, California as the first daughter (5th child, there are 7 total) to Ross and Kathleen Baron. Rebekah seems excited to be 17, but yesterday she told me that she's excited for 18 because she really wants to pierce her ears.

Here are Seventeen things I Love about REBEKAH.

1. Rebekah is hilarious.

2. She's good with animals.

3. Rebekah is a SMART cookie.

4. She's one of my best friends.

5. Rebekah and I have a language of sorts. If you read/heard the things we write/say back and forth to eachother, you might need a translator.

6. She's a good aunt to my baby, Ross.

7. Rebekah is very motherly. She tries to mother everyone. I think it's funny/cute. Her younger sister and brother do not.

8. Rebekah is a good singer.

9. Rebekah plays the piano and the chello.

10. She has a cat named GJ (geej) that cries when she's leave for school.

11. Rebekah is fun to shop with.

12. She's not afraid to tell you your outfit is ugly, your hair looks bad, or if your breath stinks.

13. Rebekah has a lot of nicknames, as do most of her brothers and sister. They include, but are not limited to; Re, Re-Re, Reba, RebaLynn, Freund, Freund Labin, Freundjalina.

14. Rebekah has an old soul.

15. No matter how hard I try, I can't keep a secret from her.

16. Rebekah picks out clothes for Ross, has her mom buy them, and sends them to us.

17. The thing I love most about Rebekah is that I can tell her anything, and she can always make me laugh.

Happy Birthday, Freund!

Tagged!

2008-10-22T18:42:00.000-07:00

I got tagged by SAM! I've never been tagged before, so this is a first for me. It's been a long day, and I am hammered, so we'll see if I can get some thoughts flowing.

Eight TV Shows I Love to Watch:
1. Friends
2. Arrested Development
3. King of Queens
4. That 70's Show
5. The Soup
6. Burn Notice
7. Jon and Kate Plus 8
8. What Not to Wear

Eight Favorite Restaurants:
1. PF Changs
2. Olive Garden
3. Outback
4. Famous Dave's
5. In-n-Out Burger
6. Texas Roadhouse
7. Bella Italia
8. Azteca

Eight Things That Happened Yesterday:
1. My son got sick
2. I went to school
3. My niece spent the night
4. Had a meeting with my advisor
5. Emailed my father-in-law.
6. Chatted with Bub
7. Went to Walmart
8. Considered Transfering schools

Eight Things I'm Looking Forward To:
1. Ross getting better
2. Thanksgiving
3. Christmas
4. The end of the semester
5. Next week being over
6. Getting paid
7. Paying off some debt
8. Sleep

Eight Things on My Wish List:
1. A new house
2. A new car
3. Being debt free
4. A college degree
5. Losing 15-20lbs
6. Going to Rexburg for Thanksgiving
7. New clothes
8. 3.5 GPA

Eight People I'm tagging:
I don't even think eight people follow my blog! So, I will just tag anyone who happens to read this. =)

Baby's First Football Game

2008-10-20T18:56:00.000-07:00

This weekend Jonathan and I took Ross to his first football game. Jonathan's grandparents, Mel and Lorraine, live in LA and planned a trip to Pullman to watch the Cougs vs. USC. Jonathan's grandpa is a professor at the USC pharmacy school, so he got the tickets through his work. We've been looking forward to this trip for a long time! It was a little interesting because they, of course, were rooting for USC... and Ross and I were decked out in our WSU gear (in the USC section, Jonathan doesn't believe in partisanship). Mel & Lorraine were good sports. They even bought Baby Ross the WSU jacket pictured.

Ross LOVED the game. Even thought it was a complete blowout. The Cougs are awful this year, and USC is amazing (as usual). When we left it was like 60-something to nothing. Exciting game? No. But Ross loved it. He thought everyone was there to see him.

I caught a few people admiring him.

And who wouldn't?

Mama's

2008-10-15T11:28:00.000-07:00

...Little Baby loves Apples

President Monson, AND...

this Little Pink Disney Princess Couch.

Birthday Bubba

2008-10-02T08:37:00.000-07:00

Today, my brother-in-law, Alexander Scott Baron turns 19. I would like to take this opportunity to tell you 19 things I love about Alexander.

1. He preferrs to be called "Bub" by family, and is referred to as such by ALL of us. In fact, when his friends call and ask for Alex it sounds really weird.

2. Bub is an extremely hard worker, and it's really easy for him to find jobs.

3. Bub almost never complains.

4. He's hilarious.

5. Bub LOVES his friends.

6. He is really creative. He makes custom birthday cards for people using photoshop... and they always look amazing.

7. He's very determinded.

8. He's ALWAYS doing something. He can't just veg out on the couch, he needs a project.

9. Bub works as a web designer for this company. And this one, too.

10. He walks to work everyday.

11. Bub loves to "get the pump," as we call it. So if you've got a piano, tv, or refridgerator that needs to be moved, he's the man to call.

12. Bub loves his family. Just ask his sister, Rebekah. They're best friends.

13. He can be extremely thoughtful and generous. Once while he was living with Jonathan and I, we went out of town for the weekend, and when we got home the apartment was gleeming it was SO clean. He even started to clean our room.

14. Bub writes songs AND records them.

15. He's in a band where I'm pretty sure he plays the guitar, designs the web page AND the album cover.

16. Bub worked for Sonic designing their webpage and allowed them to pay him in food.

17. He's good at fixing things. Which is good, because he's also good at breaking things.

18. He makes hilarious videos with his friends and family, FOR his friends and family.

19. Bub is my brother-in-law! This is my favorite part. I also call my own son "Bubba." I think it's subconscious, and may have something to do with the fact that Bub is one of my favorite people.

HAPPY 19TH BIRTHDAY, BUB!!

Long day

2008-10-01T19:10:00.001-07:00

Sometimes my baby fights sleep.
But, eventually, sleep always wins.

2 years

2008-09-22T16:02:00.000-07:00

Today marks the day of mine and Jonathan's second wedding anniversary. On this day 2 years ago we drove from his parent's house in Rexburg, ID to Salt Lake City, UT. Stopping in Brigham City to get our marriage license, and again to eat at McDonalds.

After our sealing in the Salt Lake Temple, we took pictures on the temple grounds. Then we went to the Lion House where Jonathan's dad bought us all dinner. We stayed our first night as a marriage couple at the Howard Johnson (classy, eh?). We drove back home to Rexburg the next morning with no money, no place to live, and only me having my measley job at Old Navy working 20 hours a week for 6.75/hour.

A lot has happened in the past two years, and a lot has changed for us. We've moved A LOT, had a baby, been promoted, been to the emergency room, and had financial hardships. Although it has not gone the way I would have expected, it's been good!

The Latest

2008-09-13T20:05:00.000-07:00

The other day I let Ross try to feed himself. I got the idea because one day I gave him the spoon, he took it and dipped it in his baby food jar, and put the spoon in his mouth. SO, maybe it was time to let him try himself. This is what happened.

Today I was bored, and I didn't want to do homework. Plus, Ross was so whiney. I decided I would take him out in the yard since it was such a beautiful day, and he loves it outside. Then I thought I'd snap some pictures of the little guy. Here's a few of my favorites.

He started to get fussy at the end. I like pictures like this, though. They represent real life. Let's face it; babies cry. Mine does anyway.

On a side note, I had my first exam yesterday. I was so nervous about it, but I did really well. 90% of the things I worry about never happen, so don't tell me worrying doesn't do any good.

J/K

This is...

2008-09-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

...what happens when you're a 7 month old baby boy who has had a rough evening.

Ross has been cranky tonight. He would barely let Jonathan and I eat dinner. Barely. I sat him down about 20 minutes ago in front of the TV, with his Binky and his (toy) phone. He squawked and squealed for about 10 minutes. Then I finally noticed; it's quiet. So, I looked up from what I reading, and that's what I found.

Of course I had to do a photo shoot, as my husband calls them.

The end.

I May Have...

2008-08-28T22:25:00.000-07:00

...bitten off a little more than I can chew, here. Let's see. I started school and work on Monday. I signed up to take 15 units, going 5 days a week. It's been a rough week. On Monday night I got home at about 9pm. I attended my classes for the day (5 hours worth), bought my books, and went to Ladies Workout Express to learn how to close. By the time I got home I had like 7 hours worth of homework, no energy, and a spliting headache. As I sat down to study, my husband was telling me about his day, and then he says; "oh, Brother Romm called, and we're speaking on Sunday." AH, nooo. I got anxious and nausious. I HATE getting up in front of other people. This couldn't have come at a worse time.

{Side note} When I was visiting my in-laws in Rexburg my father in law (who is on the high counsel...council? Whatever.) was talking about how nice it was not to have to speak that Sunday. And I told him I didn't know how he did it because I turn into a nervous wreck because I am so reserved and shy about getting up in front of people. Then, he looked at me disapprovingly and said, "No you don't. YOU are not shy." Neat, Ross. Thanks. {Side note}

ANYWAY, Tuesday night rolls around and I sit down to do my math homework. And I DO NOT remember this stuff. Jonathan helps me for 3.5 hours! There were 50 problems. I could NOT comprehend what he was showing me. I got frusterated and broke down at least three times. So he says, "Ok, this isn't worth it. Drop the class, you're taking too many units, you're working, and I'm calling Brother Romm tomorrow. You're clearly not up to all of this." So, I'm lame and turned down the opportunity to speak. Rich Romm, who knows me fairly well, thought it was funny. We are speaking next month, which is totally fine. I am just sad because I really liked the topic he gave me. On that note, I dropped the class. I REALLY wanted to power through. I am known for this kind of thing. I probably COULD have done it. But at what cost? It's only been a day since I dropped and I already feel like a significant weight has been lifted.

Well, with part of my pell grant that I had left over I decided to buy myself some new school clothes. So, I went to good old {old navy} dot com. Those people stole little bits of my soul that I may never get back, so of course I still shop there. Anyway, I had to get baby something, right? Yes. I bought him his first baseball cap. It arrived today and it's the cutest thing I've ever seen in my life. And now when we put it on him he laughs. Jonathan says it's because he knows he looks cute. I don't know much about that, but it's stinking adorable.

Other than that, I've just been studying like mad. Oh, and not cleaning my house. Turns out men are not good at maintaining cleaniless because my rampage turned out to be a waste of time. =(

Anyway, I'll leave you with some cuteness.

The quality is so-so. I took it with my built-in webcam on my new laptop. Yep, paid for by grants. Gotta love it.

Water Baby

2008-08-23T22:34:00.001-07:00

This is my little boy in his bath tonight. He's getting so big, I can't believe it. Last time I bathed him (Daddy usually does it) he couldn't sit up in the sink by himself, now he's a pro! He's growing so fast it's UNREAL. He used to hate baths. When he was a newborn I would DREAD it. Oh how he screamed and cried. He's almost 7 months old now. It seems like we just had him, but then again it seems like we've ALWAYS had him. Maybe that doesn't make sense. Since I got pregnant I kinda have been losing it. Ask my husband.

The other day I went to Walmart. I got in line to purchase all my items, and by the time it's my turn and everything is carefully placed on the conveyor belt according to size, shape, and/or category; (OCD me? NEVER!) I realized I forgot my wallet! NOOOO. I had to drive ALL the way back home, and come ALL the way back. It was fun...

Today I went on a cleaning rampage. If I'm going to be in school and working I can't come home to a dirty house, so I cleaned it to my standards so Jonathan can maintain it. Hopefully. I am a true leader and go-getter because I don't EVER like to delegate, I don't have faith in other people's abilities to do things better than I can do them, and if I'm not doing it -- I feel like it's not getting done. Period. Plus, it is my opinion that at least 85% of people are inefficient. I know these thoughts are irrational, but I can't seem to let that influence how I FEEL when I watch someone load the dishwasher all haphazardly or fold clothes incorrectly. These are just two examples. I won't bore you with the rest.

I'll just leave you with a picture of my wee one.

Sweet Child of Mine

2008-08-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

I love my son. My son is sweet, precious, and adorable. Whenever I look at him he can't help but SMILE the biggest, cutest smile. And whenever I leave the room, 90% of the time he starts crying.

Ever since he first came into our lives (almost 7 months ago) he has been very dramatic. He wants what he wants, and he has no problem crying until you figure out what that is. He's been particularly fussy today.

At about 8:45 I noticed that he was no longer fussing. Hmm, that's strange. I got up to check on him and Jonathan and this is what I found.

Aww. Look at my sweet angel. Finally asleep after a long, hard day of rolling onto his tummy and not being able to roll back. (He HATES being on his tummy). He's so precious.

About 5 minutes after I took this picture Jonathan says, "Okay, honey, it's time to put your baby to bed." So I scoop up my little bundle, take him to his room, and just as I am about to set him down he wakes up. No biggie, he does that sometimes, he'll go right back to sleep.

WRONG. My sweet, little bundle has been screaming his sweet, little bundle head off for about the last 10 minutes. I feel like a terrible mother, but I know nothing is wrong. In 5 minutes, when he still hasn't let up, I'll go in there, pick him up and watch The Fresh Prince with him until he finally falls asleep.

Ohhh, Sweet Child of Mine.

Life Happens

2008-08-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

(The in-laws taken 4/11/2008)

...and all we can do is deal with it. Right? I was chatting with a friend (and former roommate) today. I don't think any of you know who she is, but for privacy's sake I will not mention her name. I lived with her for an entire school year at BYU-Idaho. I knew her the entire year before because she was my (faithful) visiting teacher.

Anyway, my friend has been married for almost 3 years. She has a medical condition which causes her to have an extremely difficult time getting pregnant -- even using meds. She's been pregnant twice, both ending in miscarriages. One was within the last month. My heart hurts for her. It was hard for me when my ectopic pregnancy erupted. My hopes were high. I was excited. I'd waited my whole life to be a mother, and I just remember the feelings of excitment and anxiety. I couldn't believe it. I was extremely disappointed when I found out that I would have to wait longer. I can't imagine what she must feel. I'm not even going to pretend to understand what she must be feeling right now, knowing she may never be able to have a child of her own.

THEN, today she tells me that her parents are getting a divorce. A WHAT?! They are LDS. They were married in the temple. They've been married for 40 years. Her dad doesn't love her mother anymore, and isn't sure if he ever did. UGH. UGH! How terrible? I am trying so hard not to lose faith. My marriage isn't perfect, no marriage is, but how devastating is that? It makes me feel ugly inside. It's absurd. How can you even say something like that? Of course you were in love. No one sticks around for 40 years because they have lukewarm feelings. That's lame.

This is the kicker. So, she says..."speaking of which, "Hailey" called me the other day." "Hailey" is a roommate that we shared (named changed to protect her identity). She was a very nice girl. I won't lie, she was not my favorite roommate. She had some tendencies that were not easy for me to live with, but she wasn't the worst roommate, by far. She was very valiant, diligent, generous, and nice. I know what you're thinking, "how could you not like her?" Well, I have pride (which, contrary to popular belief, is NOT a good thing) and I can be a jerk... plus, you didn't live with her. Anyway. My friend tells me, "Hailey is going through a divorce right now. And she's 8 months pregnant." UGH. UGH! First of all, this girl is not one to give up. She would take her vows and covenants VERY seriously. I don't think she has been married as long as I have (2 years). I am just thinking, wow, how bad can this guy REALLY be? To decide before your child is even born that it's not worth trying for. It must be that bad.

My marriage isn't perfect, far from it. I've learned from other women that this seems to be the norm, so I don't feel so bad. I've watched my in-laws. Their's isn't perfect either. They've been married for 25 years, and despite my mother in law being very sensitive, and my father in law having a casual disregard for other people's feelings -- they STILL love each other. Maybe my descriptions of them sound harsh, but it's true. Let's call a spade - a spade, shall we? She gets upset, he apologizes. The point is, they aren't perfect. But, they love each other A LOT and they've not only "made it work" but they've been very happy together. I think the key is this; they have been righteous. They have always been devoted to EACH OTHER. My mother in law always says "Ross is number 1, everyone else is 2 or lower." I get it now. There's no secret to a successful marriage. 1) Be righteous. This doesn't mean you have to be perfect. I think as long as you don't cheat, lie, or become addicted to elicit drugs you'll probably be okay. 2) Put the needs of your spouse first. So obvious, right?

Why is this so hard for so many people? Some of you may not understand the doctrines and feelings of my church, but simply not being in love is not a good enough reason to get a divorce. David O. McKay said this; "Except in cases of infidelity or other extreme conditions, the Church frowns upon divorce."

Gordon B. Hinckley said this; "There is a remedy for all of this. It is not found in divorce. It is found in the gospel of the Son of God. He it was who said, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” (Matt. 19:6.) The remedy for most marriage stress is not in divorce. It is in repentance. It is not in separation. It is in simple integrity that leads a man to square up his shoulders and meet his obligations. It is found in the Golden Rule."

In other words -- Man up.

Golden

2008-08-15T20:57:00.000-07:00

19 year-old Nastia Liukin is the new world champion in women's gymnastics. On Thursday night I stayed up until 1am watching the women's all-around final. It was so worth it. These women, girls really, are so inspiring. At first I was rooting for Shawn Johnson . She was the favorite to win, and ever since I watched her in the olympic trials, I was rooting for her. I thought she would win. Her style of gymnastics is so strong and solid. But when it became inevitable that Liukin would win I was almost glad. And, hey, at least a woman from the US would win the gold, right? Right. Anyway, Liukin's story was so triumphant. And then to see her take her place on the gold medal winner's platform; tears came to my eyes. As the camera cut to her coach and father, Valeri Liukin, also an olympic champion. The look on his face was priceless, and it made me believe that, no where else in the world, at that moment, was there a father more proud of his daughter.

It was REALLY interesting to learn that Nastia and Shawn are not only roommates at the olympics, but very close friends. They gave each other credit for their medals, saying they rooted each other on and were better gymnasts because of it. Even though you could tell she was disappointed, Shawn hid it well. Saying that she did the best job she could do, and that Nastia deserved the gold. What wonderful sportsmanship.

This is why I love the Olympics. It's so fun to watch these young women acheive their dreams. And it made realize that even if you don't win the gold, you can be happy with doing your very best. And despite what others think, there is no shame in being the 2nd best all-around gymnast in the world, right?

It made me wonder what I COULD acheive if I actually applied myself. I am so nervous about starting to school, taking like a million units, getting the grades I want, working part-time, AND being a good mother. MY goal is to graduate cum laude. But even if I don't, I will at least know that I tried my very best. And that's all I can do.

Blast from the Past

2008-08-13T16:33:00.000-07:00

I stole this idea from Marilyn's blog, another mother in my ward. I thought it was really cute and fun, so I decided to join in... since she tagged anyone that wanted to do it. So here goes.

Blast from the Past

20 years ago I was 3 years old. I don't recollect a lot from this time in my life, but I do actually remember the day the picture below was taken. I was crying and crying and crying because I wanted my mother... which is weird because she was right behind the camera. I was mama's little girl, and her baby.

(1988. Sweet dress, huh?)

10 years ago I was 13. I had just moved to Burbank from its rival town, Finley. This was kind of a rough time for me in some ways. I had moved away from all my friends that I'd had since kindergarten, and this was right when my mom started to get really sick. But, I started to really like Burbank, and I'd made a lot of good friends. Most of whom I am still friends with today.

(This was taken in our front yard. 1998)

5 years ago I was 18. I had just graduated from high school, gotten my first job (Wendy's), and shortly thereafter quit my first job to work at my 2nd job (Yoke's Fresh Market). By this time in my life I had experienced the death of a parent (2000), my first real heartbreak (2002), and got accepted to the college of my choice, BYU-Idaho. More importantly, though, is what happened about a year before; I was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints. I feel like this when my life really started. I changed from a young woman who was cynical, mean, unhappy, extremely anxious, depressed, and fearful (and EXTREMELY foul-mouthed) to one that was happy, (more) kind, approachable, and hopeful. I fear for where I would be today had I chose a different path.

(This picture was taken by Rich Romm. Who else?)

3 years ago I was 20. I was in my second year at BYU-Idaho. I made a lot of new friends, and lived with some really cool (and not so cool) roommates. When I was 20 I studied abroad in Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and Honduras. At this time I was very proficient in spanish, though I would not say I was fluent. I could definately hold my own, and a lot of my classmates looked to me for help during that trip. This is the year I met a man named Ross Baron, who was my New Testament professor. Little did I know that a year later I would meet, fall in love, and get engaged to his son. Ross taught me more about the gospel than anyone I have ever met. He taught me how to study the scriptures, and when he testifies of something I know without a doubt that it's true, which is something I had never experienced before I took his class. I've never told him that, and there's about a 90% chance I never will. Unless, for some reason, he reads my blog one day. When I think about this time of my life, it was definately one of the best. I already feel nostalgic when I think about it. It was very significant for me because I grew as a person more this year than I ever had before.

(This was taken on top of the Latin American Tower in Mexico City. My favorite city in the entire world . I'm the one on the far right. duh.)

1 year ago I was 22. Jonathan and I had been married almost a year. We had just moved to Moscow, ID because I received a(nother) promotion. I was the new Logistics Supervisor for the brand new Old Navy. Which I HATED. I was 4 months pregnant with Ross, though at this time we didn't know if he was going to be a boy or a girl. When I accepted this job I did not know I was pregnant. About 6 months earlier I collapsed at work (right after my 2nd promotion). I was rushed to the hospital by one of my managers. It turns out I had a tubal pregnancy that erupted. It was the worst pain of my entire life (and I'd already passed 6 kidney stones when I was 18). I knew I was pregnant, but a nurse told me over the phone that I had a miscarriage. I made an apt to see my OB, but they told me they couldn't get me in for TWO weeks. The day before I was scheduled to go in is when this happened. It's hard for me to not be slightly bitter about this. I was a young, naive first-time mother who didn't know this was an emergent situation -- because, apparently, neither did my doctor's nurse. I didn't FULLY realize it until a couple months ago, because at the time I wasn't scared at all, but I was very close to losing my life. This was kind of a rough year for me. I hated working full-time at a job I HATED, though I stuck it out until I was diagnosed with hypertension at 36 weeks. I hated being pregnant. And I did not like Moscow. BUT, in the end, it was all worth it.

(This was taken at our apartment in Moscow. I was about 3 months pregnant, which is why you can only see my face. I thought I was fat. But, that shirt right there still doesn't fit me very well, and Ross is 6 months old.)

Yesterday I hung out with my son. Made grilled chicken, baked beans, and fried potatoes for dinner. And went to my sister's to watch the women's gymnastics final on NBC (we don't get local channels).

Now I chose to tag whoever wants to have a blast from the past. =)

Engineer Weds Computer Geek

2008-08-10T18:26:00.000-07:00

On Saturday August 9th, 2008 Megan Reynolds, one of my dearest childhood friends, married Randy Dahl. The wedding was absolutely beautiful -- almost as beautiful as the bride. It wasn't too short, it wasn't too long. It was perfect! The reception was also a blast. There was a live band, tons of good food (salads, sandwiches, fresh fruits & veggies) and numerous DELICIOUS cake flavors. Megan and Randy will make their home in Kent, WA after Megan finishes her Masters (Materials Science Engineering) in Dec/Jan. Both are WSU graduates, which is where they met while living in the same apartment complex.

Two of my other very close, long-time friends were also in the wedding. Maid of Honor; Amber Stenkamp, and Bride's Maid; Christian Matthews.

Now, a little more about the happy couple. Megan is a beautiful, funny, smart, charming, outspoken woman and her new husband is one of the kindest, gentlest, sweetest men I've ever met. Since the first time I saw the two of them together I knew eventually I'd be sitting where I was on Saturday evening -- at their wedding. Congratulations Megan & Randy.

Little Swimmers!

2008-08-05T20:26:00.001-07:00

Today Ross and I went swimming with Laurel & Lytton in her Aunt Tami's pool! It was so much fun to get out and get some sun! Ross really, really enjoyed himself. He cried at first because it was too cold, but after he got used to it... he had a blast. I liked it, too, because I got a slight tan and it tuckered the little guy out! He hasn't slept that long since he was a newborn!

I would have taken pictures of us IN the pool, but by the time I realized I brought my camera we had already gotten out and decided to go home. Oh well. Maybe next time. =)

Growing Boy

2008-08-04T20:43:00.000-07:00

Ross is six months old now. That's right. Our little nuggett is growing up before our little eyes. They tend to that every now and then.

We went to the doctor again on Monday. Ross is in about the 8th percentile now. This means that 92% of babies his age are bigger than he is. He seems perfect to me. He's growing perfectly. I asked Dr. Adkins to look at the dry spot on his face while we're there, and he said that it's ringworm . It's the same fungus that causes athlete's foot and *ahem* jock itch. He did not get it from an animal, because we don't have animals.

This past month Ross and I flew to Idaho Falls to visit some of my friends, and of course Papa, Grandma, Aunt(s) Rebekah & Bitsy, Uncle Z and Eric. Ross did very well on the flights. On the way home we missed our connection in Salt Lake because the plane leaving Idaho Falls was SOOO late. I ran to the terminal with baby Ross in my arms, I got there 10 minutes before the

plane was scheduled to take off, but we were 3 minutes too late. I couldn't catch another flight to Pasco for FIVE more hours. I was so frusterated. I was crying. I didn't have enough formula for another feeding (I know terrible planning on my part). But, we lived through it. It was so good to get home. Ross missed his dad so much.

Shortly after we got back from Rexburg Jonathan's family came for a visit. We had a lot of fun shopping and visiting with them. Ross also had his baby blessing that weekend. Everything went well, and we had a lot of fun. The visit was too short, but hopefully we will be able to see eachother again soon.

Ross has recently showed an interest in himself in the mirror. Today we started sitting him up with a nursing pillow and letting him play with his toys. He seemed to really enjoy it. We also introduced him to a sippy cup today, and he caught on very quickly. He definately has an opinion of his own. He does not like to sleep, and he fights it until the bitter end. We are trying to do bed time rituals with him to get him more tired and get into a routine, but it's tough!

I start school this month. I am very anxious and nervous. It's going to be a lot of work, but it will be worth it. I am taking a heavy course load. I hope I can handle it. Other than that our lives are pretty uninteresting. We'll keep you updated.

June

2008-06-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

In a week Baby Ross will be 5 months old. I can't believe how big he's getting. Though, he's still wearing size 0-3 months. I guess he's a small baby (10th percentile), but he's the perfect size to me. He's laughing a lot now, but whenever he sees the camera he clams up! I think he's trying to make a liar out of me. Jonathan also taught him to say "da-da," but, again, when I got the camera all he would do is smile at me. Below is the closest I could come to getting it on video.

This month we were finally able to get Jonathan's driver's license. That was a nightmare, but five trips to the DOL and $45 dollars later, it's finally done. His new social security card came last week, so he is legal to work now. And just in time -- he got a job working for Securitas. He will work as a security guard at ConAgra Foods. We have to go to Spokane on Monday so he can get his guard license. After that they said he can start working in less than a week!

I went to see my advisor a couple weeks ago to plan out the next two years. I will be taking 15 credits this Fall, and probably just as many from here on out. I should have a Bachelors in Business Administration by December 2010. I was one credit away from an AA at BYU-I, and because I don't have one I need to take 21 more credits in order to get General Ed. requirements out of the way. I'm a little more than bummed. That's more than a semester's worth of classes. Two more science classes (in addition to the one that transfered) another math class, 6 credits of "global learning" (she said my TWO study abroads MAY cover that. What's more global than going to nine countries?) and a diversity class. Apparently the anthopology class I took in Central America doesn't count... so I guess I'll have to take a class about lesbos or something. Anyhow, I start school August 25th. I'm a little nervous. I've never done the school thing AND the mom thing... so, we'll see.

This month Jonathan and I were also called to teach Valiant 9 in the Burbank Ward primary. The kids are cute. A little distracted, but cute. It's such a great opportunity for me because I've never been to primary. It's so fun to teach kids that are eager and excited to learn.

Well, that's the latest with us. Baby Ross just keeps growing and growing. He is ALMOST rolling over, and is ALMOST sitting up on his own. He seems more interested in learning to talk than anything else, though. He's so beautiful, and he fills our lives with joy every day.

4 Months Old Already

2008-05-29T23:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked the fourth month that Ross Matthew Baron has been here on the earth (not counting inside the womp, of course). This meant that it was time to go see Dr. Adkins again. And, since he is in Pullman that meant a two hour drive for Kendall and Ross. It went very smoothly. We don't mind the drive, since the health care in the Tri-Cities is so-so (and that's being generous), Dr. Adkins has been taking care of baby Ross (and mom!) since before his birth, and he is a very, very dedicated physician. Plus, Ross slept the entire way there, and back! Easy, breezy.

Our appointment went very well. Dr. Adkins said that he is growing just the way he should be, that he looks perfect, and that it's time to start solid foods!

He, nurse Sylvia, and the other office staff all gushed about how adorable he is (duh, we already knew that). Ross also had to get five immunizations this time. He took it very well (probably better than his father would have) and slept for most the day afterwards.

Ross is doing very well. He is getting bigger everyday (he has almost doubled his birth weight). This week he also started laughing. It's the cutest, most beautiful sound in the world. He is very ticklish! He now notices when mom leaves the room, and cries whenever you put him down. Where are Aunt Rebekah and Uncle Zachary to fight over who gets to hold him!? Please, come quick!

We will continue to keep everyone updated. Bub suggested a blog, which is a great idea since we can post pictures and videos that some of you wouldn't otherwise get because of size regulations. We'll try to capture a video of him laughing really soon!