The Davis

The Last of August

2011-08-31T21:18:00.007-06:00

Clare is a big fan of Temples. She just loves to see their pictures and ask about them. She was asking about the Salt Lake Temple where Mommy and Daddy got married and asked if we could go there. I told her we could when we're in Utah again. But we have a temple here in Atlanta we could go to today.

So we went over to the Atlanta Temple which is not far from us. We took pictures and walked around. It was really an enjoyable afternoon. It was hot too but we had a good time.

Clare likes to take picture too. So I told her the rules of holding our camera and let her snap a few. Here's one she took of Tommy and myself. I think she's go a good eye.

We've also been back to the park. Yay! I love taking her to the park where she can run around and climb and swing and slide.

I think for me the playground at the park represents care-free life returned to. For some it may just be a hot sweaty dirty lot of fun but for me it's a happy comfortable place that pulls you back time and again.

2011-08-15T22:25:00.001-06:00

She Swimms!

2011-08-15T21:57:00.007-06:00

Clare swam several times from the stairs in the deep end of the pool to Rick! Hurray. We've been working towards this all summer. At the begining of the summer seh was so nervous about the pool and the water I couldn't get her off the steps without her crying. A little peer pressure fixed that but she still had a long way to go.

We bought 4 weeks of swimming lessons. She never advanced to the next level. She still needed to jump in by herself and bob under the water. Of course in three days Grandma got her jumping in by herself and going underwater. Two goals of her swim class that she never reached in class.

After Grandma left Rick has been working with her every weekend and sometimes after work. and now she is starting to swim. She's excited and feels good about it and Rick and I couldn't be more proud of her. Good work Clare!

Paper Mache Piggy

2011-08-09T17:07:00.014-06:00

Clare came to us really honestly upset one evening. She couldn't find her pennies. After a while of us telling her we'd help her find them and put them in a safe place she let us know that she needs a piggy bank. I wonder how long she'd been thinking this through.

So, I decided the perfect summer indoor activety fo rClare and I would be making a paper mache piggy bank. If you know Clare then you are already laughing. Clare hates and I really mean HATES to get her hands dirty. So, when it came to putting past onto paper strips and smoothing them onto a balloon she didn't get far. First I showed her what to do. Then she told me it was too messy. So I gave her a strip I had already pasted. Much to her credit she did put it on. But that was the last one she would touch.

So In the end I had a nice time making a pig and Clare got to play. When it was all over I was supprised how nice the little piggy looked. All I can say is, "Here's to you Mom, and all the Thanksgiving pinta making practice I got through the years. Thank you."

Cookies and Paper Airplanes

2011-07-18T20:57:00.008-06:00

Had a great time this afternoon thanks to Clare.

She started begging to go out and play with her friends before lunch but I put her off. You see if she plays outside I have to go out with her and of course take Tommy. This is only a problem because it's so hot outside. I don't like it being so hot and Tommy just can't take it for long at all.

Then we had lunch and then nap-time. She didn't want to take a nap so she hid under her bed, of course laying still under her bed caused her to fall asleep. So, she took a nap under her bed today. I thought it was pretty funny so I got a flashlight out and took the picture.

I was in a baking mood I wanted to make cookies and bread and anything warm and delicious right out of the oven.Of course I had to feed Tommy first.

Next I put him in our baby carrier and started making my favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe. I havn't made any since I was in Utah and was crossing my fingers in hopes that the altitude change wouldn't ruin them. (The altitude change makes a big difference on corn bread.)

Well, the cookies turn out great! I only wish I could munch on them all night.

When Clare got up she enjoyed a little cookie dough then asked if she could show the cookies to her friends. There was no way I could say no. Kids should go outside and play in the sun with thier friends and share cookies. I told her we could share our cookies.

We nocked on our neighbors door and everyone got a cookie. Funny thing, Clare didn't want any. But then they all played with chalk, then paper then on of the older kids folded an airplane. So I began to show Clare how to fold an airplane.

From there it morphed into five other children sitting just inside the door while I gave two lessons on how to fold a basic paper airplane. It was a lot of fun. I really enjoy having so many kids around. It will be a thing I miss and Clare will miss when we get a house again someday.

You know I really expected to stick my head out the door latter and see ten or so paper planes on the ground. But when I looked out the ground was miraculously clean. I'm always amazed at what these kids are excited about. Chalk, paper airplane, jumpropes, any and all balls.

Are all kids like this or is it just the ones who live near me?

1 Day Old Photos

2011-07-06T20:48:00.004-06:00

Here he is at one day old.
The hospital allows a photographer to come in and offer to take your baby's and or family's picture.
So, we had these taken before he left the hospital.
They're a lot better than I had expected.
Of course we love our little man. He's cute!
This is his coming home outfit.

Here He Is....

2011-06-29T18:17:00.009-06:00

Thomas Clay Davis

Born Thursday June 23rd at 3:15pm

20in long 8lbs 12oz

Our first day home and Thomas is only one day old. Grandma was there to take our first family picture. I want to thank my mom for being there and helping us with Clare as well as helping me pass time while waiting for Thomas to finally be born 9 days late. We really enjoyed your stay I hope you did too.

Clare just LOVES her sweet little brother. She's so excited to see him every morning and she wants to hold him and play with him all the time. She doesn't like that he sleeps so much.

Dady helping Clare feed Thomas with the bottle she gave him as a birthday gift. Mostly Mommy feeds him and Clare was getting jealous so I let her feed him with a bottle. She really enjoyed this for a couple minutes and then it got old and she was done.

Mama is doing great after the natural delivery. I would add my vote to recovery being faster and easier without an epidural. Of course delivery is 100% harder too. Pick your poision.

The little guy just sleeps everywhere all day and most of the night too. It's so cute. I know Clare did this too, but it was so long ago. I guess we just forgot. Of course it's been more than 3 1/2 years since we've had a new born and there are a couple other things we're having to remember too. Amount of diapers per day, spit up, how hot you get from cuddling with a baby, etc.

Adding the second child to our family is very different than adding the first was. The baby is very much the same but we were expecting more sleepless nights. The biggest difference is that we have a very energetic 3 yr old who needs attention. So instead of sitting on the couch and taking in every moment of his sleep filled day, we put him in bed to sleep and play with Clare.

We have also been in energetic 3 yr old mode where Clare is learning to swim, recognizing letters, just learned how to recognize words that rhyme and has a very extensive imagination. Newborns are quite a bit less interactive. That being said, we all love Tommy more than words can express and we are happy that he's an angelic sleepy newborn which allows us to keep up with Clare.

And of course our love for him crosses over into one of my favorite hobbies, photography. I took this one at the hospital. And I have so many more pictures that we could put up but we didn't want to over do it. We love you Tommy!

PS We chose his name June 22nd. I guess that was what he was waiting for.

Still Waiting.....

2011-06-21T21:18:00.011-06:00

We've done a lot waiting for baby. From going to a Braves game after he was a week late to trying to hike through nature. I tried fried pickles and they are great. I also ate spicy kimchi soup, I love it! Then I tried to OD on chocolate by eating 8 truffles. I didn't feel too great after that but it still didn't work. I went on a 2 mile walk just before noon, and came back feeling better than ever and no closer to birth than sitting at home would have gotten me.

As you can tell we are having as much fun as we can waiting inspite of the fact that we're all ready for our baby to be born. Except we still need to give him a name. I guess we'll have to do that next.

So in trying to pass our time Grandma Jani, Clare and I went to the Dunwoody Nature Center. It was fun but we couldn't stay long because Clare disliked being out in nature so much. It was very strange to me because Rick and I love being out of doors, however when I thought about it we've never taken her out into nature with us. I think because she's never been in this setting before the sounds and feeling of it were uncomfortable to her. We'll have to go a lot more!

Clare was very good at knowing where she was. She wanted to go back to the car and we thought we'd be cleaver by taking the long way back on another trail. However when we passed the turn off she stopped at the correct place to turn and started to cry. She knew we weren't headed back to the car if we didn't turn there. Smart kid!

Clare took this one so it's a bit blurry. She doesn't hold as still as she needs to for a clear picture every time. But I think it's framed very well. She loves to take pictures.

While we made a Cake for babys birthday we also let Clare make her own little cake. Here she is dumping sprinkles onto it. She had fun making it and eating it for the next week. I have to admit it was a great tasting cake and the sprinkles only made it better.

Alright I did have this one finished before the due date but I forgot to post it. Clares new dress and it turned out so well. We even made a matching one for her doll. Pictures like this make me really appriciate Mom teaching me to sew.

Day 1 After the "Due Date"

2011-06-15T05:40:00.005-06:00

When will baby boy Davis be born? When will baby boy Davis have a name? Both good questions I wish I had a more definative answer to.

Clare has always been so easy that we decided the next child would have to be a little difficult at least. Of course he was supposed to be born yesterday but here I am today still pregnant. Don't make any character judgments too soon though. Rick's schedualed some vacation starting this weekend and his new smart phone arrives today, (we hope). So, I've been informed that I can't have the baby until Rick has his phone so we can take videos of him. And I need to wait until this weekend so this doesn't throw off the vacation schedule. (If you're not laughing it's because you've either never been prengnant or never had a pregnant wife.)

But just for the record he has dropped and we were both pronounced healthy at the Dr. Office today. The Dr. doesn't think we'll make it another week before he's born and I said, "Good!" So it's all about the wait which is much easier with my Mom in town.

So, I guess if he is born between Friday night and Sunday then we can assume that this is really dady's boy. Of course maybe he's just waiting for us to figure out what we'll name him. Clare wanted to name him Thomas the Train yesterday and if I heard that I would be hesitant to be born also. Luckily Clare realy doesn't have a say in what we'll name him.

The Belly Chronicles

2011-06-07T07:24:00.006-06:00

Just another photo update on the growth of the baby belly. He's due a week from today on the 14th. Hope he doesn't hang out in there too long.

Clare is already in love with him. She gives him kisses and sings him songs and makes plans to play and swing and swim with him after he's born, it's pretty sweet.

A while ago wwe were out for dinner and Clare came up near the end of the meal, gave my baby belly a loving pat and said, "don't worry baby, you'll get out soon." She was so sweet and sincer, Rick and I couldn't help laughing. We had to stop pretty quick because Clare didn't like being laughed at.

So, this morning Rick asked if I thought we'd have the baby today. I told him no. But before he left I gave him a hug and said to him, "Don't worry Daddy, he'll get out soon." We both smiled.

Of course latley I've been saying it my myself a lot, "Don't worry Chrysi, he'll get out soon." Honestly I'm really tired of being pregnant. I know he'll be harder to care for once he's out than while he's in. I also know that the discomfort doesn't really go away for a couple weeks after he's born it just changes. I just want to get on with it so that in a nother month even though I'm sleep deprived I'll feel a little more phisicaly able.

At least we still have time to think about what to name him. Any suggestions???

Great Weekend

2011-06-05T18:13:00.004-06:00

My brother Bretton and his family Natalie and Charlie only live 8 hours away in Mississippi. So, they came over to Georgia and stayed with us for the weekend. It was awesome!

I got a call thursday night from Bretton. He wanted to know what we were up to this weekend because they could come over. I was so excited for the next day I just couldn't wait for them to get here.

The only plan Rick and I had was to see Spamalot at Fox Theature. Rick found some tickets for Bretton and Natalie and they came with us. If you like Monty Python stuff you'll love this musical.

Saturday we all went to the Altlanta Aquarium. It was a lot bigger than I expected. We spent hours walking through and seeing the aquatic life. It was really fun.

Clare loved looking at all the fish and being with her cousin.

Rick and Clare crawled through a tunnel to see the penguins up close.

They had a large tank with 4 whale sharks and many other fish that we could sit and watch while we geared up to see the next half of the exibits.

We were all tired when we got back so we all fell asleep, except Clare. Dinner was Korean and as always if you're eating good Korean food it was great.

Bretton and Natalie and Charlie took off this afternoon after attending some church with us. I hope they have a safe ride home. I can't wait to visit them in Mississippi this summer.

Let the Summer Begin

2011-05-28T21:52:00.010-06:00

Yes, that is Clare doing the limbo.
There's a fun program at our complex run by a local church called Street Reach. It's faith based but of course doesn't discriminate, all children are welcome. Clare's been going for a couple weeks and she really enjoys it.

Clare is with some of the neighbor kids (Ava and Philipe) in this picture also at Street Reach. Although most of the kids are older than her they are very good to her and she knows they are her friends.

We've been to two Braves games so far and it is so much fun. Every Friday night Turner Field has fireworks after the game. It makes a late night for Clare but late nights now and then never hurt, right? It's fun to teach Clare about the game and watch her enjoy some peanuts and cotton candy or ice cream. No she doesn' t need the jacket. It was very warm at the game. But she really likes her jackest and hats and wants to waer them even when it's hot . It was 90 outside and the only way I could get her to not wear her sweater to the park was by bringing it in my purse, just in case she got cold.

I just had to put this one up because Clare looks so cute with her baby doll and her summer dress. I think seh put on six different dresses before deciding that she would wear her swimming suit for the rest of the day. I was trying to nap durring this so I only helped with the buttons/zipper of three dresses and then saw the rest of them on her floor and bed after she had finished.

Belly Update. (16 days to the due date)

2011-05-28T21:48:00.002-06:00

May

2011-05-25T15:23:00.007-06:00

For some reason the only thing I can think to tell everyone about May is that I feel really big.

Lets see what else....

Rick and I celebrated our 7th anaversary on May 11th. Clare and I made a small cake and Rick brought home flowers and chocolate.

Clare also got her own small cake to decorate. That's what the pile of sprinkles on the other plate is.

It's been a good month to get to know people. I've made friends at the playground and at church and on the hospital maternity tour. I feel like I have to get to know people and places and become aquainted with everything at super speed.

I've also been able to teach Clare's primary class and the class older then hers. That has been SO NICE. I feel much more at home in a primary class than I do in Relief Society. Not that the RS sisters arn't some of the best around, I think it's just what I'm used to.

Clare is doing great too. She's made some friends in primary and been to both her pediatrician and the CF clinic this month. We also got to take her to Great Strides and the zoo.

Rick is very busy, as we expected. But I feel like he's been around more than I thought he would. He is such a great dad and I always feel like it's so unfair that he has to be gone as much as he is.

Easter

2011-05-07T20:59:00.007-06:00

We had a great time with our small personal Easter.

We colored eggs together on Saturday.

Clare loved waking up to a new easter dress that came with a matching pink coat. And she looked very cute in it too.

In the morning we had a small hunt for Clare and she really enjoyed it. The pictures really say it better than I can.

Of course all parents know that watching your kid have a great time with something as simple as hunting eggs can't be beat.

I also just love watching Clare enjoy her easter candy. As most of you know we really limit candy at our house. So, spoiling her for a day on a holliday is really really fun.

I got to plan the dinner and Rick and I worked together to get it ready. I enjoyed the day as much as ever.

Special Request...

2011-04-29T08:28:00.004-06:00

I've heard that at least one person wants to see how my baby bump is comeing along. Since we can't meet face to face and I do have a camera here are two recent pictures.

April 4th at 30 weeks April 29th at 33 weeks

Being pregnant and chasing a three year old around makes me forget or put off plenty of things. So, if it gets close to the end of May and I haven't posted an updated picture just send me a reminder email.

Storms in the South East

2011-04-29T07:14:00.004-06:00

We've had a few storms already and we've only been here 37 days. The worst we've seen was a storm with a Tornado Warning and hail the size of large marbles. (See the picture) Unfortunately we were so new and stupid we stood upstairs at the window and watched the whole thing in amazment. For those family and friends who are as tornado-naive as we were you're supposed to be down stairs away from the windows.
That wasn't the most recent storm system that came through. We didn't get hit hard this past Wednesday night when it blew by us. However it did knock a huge tree down at the park we like to go to. Notice the picnic table at the roots of the tree.

Atlanta, (The Suburbs)

2011-04-11T14:13:00.003-06:00

Well we've been in the North Atlanta area for 3 weeks now. (That' all! it feels like it's been a lot longer.)
Our home is very close to finally being set up properly. The guest room is the biggest challeng left as it is where we;ve been putting all the stuff we don't know where to put.
Rick is VERY busy at work but has made large efforts to be with Clare and I durring the week also. He took us to the Braves opening night last weekend. It was very fun we all enjoyed it tremendously!
Clare already has some good friends who live just next door to us. Two cute 5 yr old twins come knocking and ask to play on a very regulare basis. I enjoy playing with them too.
As for me, I've got plenty to do and not as much energy as I want. I only have 10 wks until this baby is going to be born and I'm excited to not be pregnant. I know some people love being prego. but I'm not one of them. When I'm pregnant I have 2 months when I feel good and when the sight of my growing belly bothers me less. Other than that I'm sick and or uncomfortable for the remaining 7 months. (I know Sob sob! how sad.)
The baby boy to be expected around June 14th is growing just fine. My prediction is that he'll come just a little early. This is most likly wishful thinking. What woman doesn't want her child born about 5 to 7 days before the due date?
But we all love it here and especially because we're together as a family.

We're Moving!

2011-03-17T01:34:00.006-06:00

Well in case you haven't heard (which is the situation most people are probably in) we are no longer going to be living in Salt Lake City UT.
Here's what happened.
Rick and I looked at our entire life situation and in light of my growing belly we decided better heath care was going to be pretty important to us this year. So in December he started applying for other jobs.

Jan ... Phone interviews begin .....
Jan 28th, Rick flew to Atlanta GA for interviews with 2 great companies KPMG and E&Y.
Jan 31st Rick returns home with a GREAT offer from each company. (Time to decide.)
Feb 7th Rick accepts offer with KPMG (Atlanta here we come!)
Feb 14th our moving trailer arrives and we begin to pack.
Feb 17th All our belongings are either in the moving trailer or our suitcases or the car. We're officially packed.
Feb 21st Rick with a brother and mother begin driving our two cars to Atlanta, GA (By now we had looked at Town homes on-line and picked our favorite)
Feb 25th Rick and the trailer with our stuff inside arrive in Sandy Springs GA. However the Town home we chose is DISGUSTING. So, they head to our second choice which turns out to be very nice.
Feb 28th Rick begins work at his new job with KPMG Atlanta
Mar 13th Rick is sent to New Jersey for training.
Mar 18th Rick arrives back in SLC UT
Mar 22nd Rick, Chrysi and Clare fly to their new home in wonderful Sandy Springs GA a suburb just north of Atlanta.

So, if you didn't know don't worry we didn't either. And when we found out we didn't have time to think about it or tell everyone we just had enough time to do it and only because we had A LOT of help from family and friends.

Of course during this entire process we are painting, cleaning, repairing, and remodeling our house. Now we're hoping and praying for a great renter family or a purchaser. Either one would be GREAT!

You should see our old house now! It looks a lot better.

May Flowers

2010-05-06T21:16:00.002-06:00

I'm just in love with flowers. I absolutely LOVE a beautiful well planned flower garden. If only I had one.
I planted bulbs last fall and the tulips are blooming. Yay! I planted bulbs this spring and the lilies and crocosmia are starting to peek up through the soil. And our beloved back yard tulips which grow out of the grass on the side next to the garage, (they came with the house), are up again and there are more. They naturalized!!!
But in spite of the fact that I do have flowers this year that does not equal the garden I so long to see each time I look at the house or out the windows. However at the rate I'm currently going I may at least have a full looking flower bed in another two years. We'll see. Then we'll see if I've been able to make it look like a garden and not just random flowers unplanned and thrown together. Of course that's what the south side of the house will look like. I sprinkled wildflower seeds all over and I'm crossing everything I have and hoping that they grow and look pretty not like just a bunch of weeds. well we'll see. Don't feel sorry for me. I have flowers. I have roses and vinca minor and lilacs and the crab apple tree. Beautiful!
And I have the cutest little gardener who comes and digs in my raspberries. She's better than all the flowers in the world.

Monthly Update...

2010-03-29T21:48:00.003-06:00

I'm trying to update our blog at least once a month this year. Because I've missed a lot of time I'm going to overview the rest of our lives really quickly...

We have had a lot of fun lately, We got to attend the Utah Symphony with a Van Cliburn Medalist playing Rachmaninoff's 3rd piano concerto. AWESOME! If you ever get the chance to see this preformed you must go! Rick and I have been raving about it for weeks. It was spectacular.

On the less exciting side. We're getting new windows, we're putting in a new fireplace mantle and doing the customization ourselves. We spent a week with little seen family in town and Loved it. (Amanda and Mike we already miss your family.) Rick is working the crazy "busy season" schedule. Clare is healthy but still not gaining weight like she should. "Ugh!"

Magical Age of Children

2010-03-29T21:15:00.011-06:00

Have you eve watch a young child while they watch a movie or cartoon and you can tell they not only love it but think it's real? The most fun we've had this month though, (besides a week with Aunt Amanda and Clare's cousins) was at Disney on Ice. Clare absolutely loved it and Rick and I loved watch her get into it and enjoy it.

When the characters would skate out waving she would wave back to them and tell us who they were. She dance to the music and it was just a wonderful time for her and us. It's a magical age, she doesn't know the difference between real and imaginary. It was just wonderful. She got to wear her Snow White dress and see the other princess dresses on display. It's truly wonderful to watch your child enjoying something to it's fullest.

Time Has Passed So Quickly

2010-02-15T22:30:00.005-07:00

Today Little Clare bear was upset because she wanted to eat at the dinning table instead of the kitchen table. It was lunch and I was too tired to drag our meals into the dinning room. (but not too tired to fight about it with Clare; hmmm.) Also she eats better in the kitchen. She was yelling at me telling me NO i just looked at her, put my hands on my hips and pursed my lips in frustration. She cracked up. I guess she thought I was playing but it worked. I started laughing too. I did win and we ate lunch in the kitchen.

I think being a mom can be the hardest and the greatest at the same time. I love it and I'd like to know if I've accrued any vacation time this year.

I feel like we've been sick for many weeks but it hasn't been that long, just over 1 and a half weeks, and we're right on the verge of feeling better. I just know it. It looks like Clare has regained the wieght she lost while she was sick. I'M SO GLAD!!!!!!!!!

In the mean time I have had the luck of experiencing the joys and terrors of 2 year olds. One day she dumps all the food she can get into her hands onto on the floor and the next she puts on a dress and says, "I'm wearing a dress. I'm so beautiful." She shares toys with her cousin almost better than some adults and then she refuses to nap.

I get very frustrated sometimes, but in hindsight it's all very funny. I'm glad that 2 year olds don't hold grudges and that daddy can come home to rescue her/me before mommy goes insane.

Just a Moment Frozen in Time

2010-01-18T21:43:00.001-07:00

July 4th 2009

New Year/Bad Air

2010-01-06T21:55:00.003-07:00

At the beginning of this year not much has changed at our house.
Except,
Rick is training for a marathon. The Ogden Marathon.
Chrysi is making a quilt for Clare. (first quilt I've ever made)
Clare has a new love of dresses and playing dress-up.
But really we're still the same people.

Now I missed blogging in December so here's a breif overview of that by-gone month.

December was the best month of the year! Here is why.
Rick had over a week and a half off from work!
I've been pronounced healthy! (The PE were not caused by an underlying medical condition.)
Clare's weight seems to be up. (cross your fingers!)
We got to spend numerous days with both sides of our family.
We gave of ourselves and received as well.
Christmas is our favorite holiday. It just feels good and makes us happy.

December was tough, rough and were glad it's over. Here is why.
We all got sick. Uck!
The Air turned bad. (Ack hack I can't breath it's too thick)
Clare's Dr.s are talking feeding tube.
Pseudomonas. Clare's got it. More time in therapy doing Toby.
We miss the Hales family.

Birthday Time!

2009-11-17T16:20:00.003-07:00

Can't believe it's been 2 years! I was remembering this morning exactly what was happening two years ago on this day. Here is a little slid show of Clare growing up fast as ever.
We love you Clare! Happy Birthday!!!

Worth a try???

2009-11-14T15:58:00.004-07:00

Christmas 2008

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme
TodaysMama and Provo Craft are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What 5 items are on your holiday wish list this year? Jogging Stroller Rain Cover, Cold Weather Jogging Clothes, Cutting Matt, A Good Book, New Running Shoes.
2. What is your favorite handmade gift you have received? an Apron
3. What handmade gift have you always wanted to tackle? White Chocolate Popcorn
4. What was the best Christmas gift you received as a child? A Little Red Play House
5. What items are on your kid’s wish list this year? Bath Toys, Clothes, A Few Good Picture Books...
6. What is your favorite holiday food? Pie!
7. What will you be hand-crafting for the holidays? Not Sure Yet, Maybe Some Applique Children's Shirts
8. What is your favorite holiday movie? A Christmas Story
9. Favorite holiday song? Let It Snow
10. Favorite holiday pastime? Putting a LARGE Puzzle Together with Family

October is Orange

2009-10-12T14:19:00.008-06:00

Maybe you've been out to our back pattio and seen the HORRIBLE siding that the past home owner either put up or left up. (See the picture below.) I think it was once a nice cream color. It's turned black and brittle in the sun so I took it down. That created a three foot drop off onto our driveway.

And wouldn't you know the very next day after I had taken it all down Clare fell off.
So, here are some pictures of Clare and I painting the new trellis we are putting up to stop young ones from falling off and give us additional privacy and shade.

Fun story. Clare is very observant. I wanted to take some pictures of her helping me paint. So I put the camera on timer mode and snapped a few shots. I continued painting, she started playing around behind me. I heard the camera go off, she was playing with it. I picked it up to see what she'd taken a picture of...
Here it is Clare's first self photo. I have about five pictures she took the same way. She pressed the button and then stood right behind me as the camera took her picture. SO CUTE!

Of course she got paint on her hands and had fun rubbing it around. I put her in the pool before she could get it on anything else.

Family Pictures!

2009-09-09T13:51:00.003-06:00

Amazing how a family can change in just a year.
Kami Hall took them for us at Wheeler Farm. Kami's Blogspot site is Scarlet-photography.

Why We Fight CF

2009-09-03T12:55:00.002-06:00

Oh My!

2009-08-28T09:47:00.005-06:00

I dumped some items out of my purse onto the couch last night on our way out the door. We were leaving to have family pictures taken and I didn't wasn't to carry things I didn't need. This morning I walked right by the couch without looking (or thinking) and got Clare breakfast.

When Clare finished breakfast I let her play. She went into the living room where the couch I mentioned is. When I came in after her I realized what a close call I just had.

I guess it's a good thing Clare has watched me put lipstick on because she didn't get any on her hands or the carpet or the couch. She wasn't even eating it. She was carefully applying it to her lips and around her lips.

What a cutie! I had to take pictures. Then I had to take it away and wipe her face again.

2 Reasons to Spred Awareness: Cystic Fibrosis

2009-08-25T14:57:00.005-06:00

Our goal is to spread awareness and raise $10,000 by October 31st.
we've raised 2,700 as of today. This is remarkable! Thank you!

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that causes the mucus that our bodies naturally make to be too thick and sticky. Like rubber cement sticky. Because it's so thick and sticky people with CF can't get it out of their lungs and digestive system the way the rest of us naturally do. This causes a couple different health problems mostly in the lungs and digestive system.

The research sponsored by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is incredible and can give people with CF a whole new life. Approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States have cystic fibrosis. An additional ten million more—or about one in every 31 Americans—are carriers of the defective CF gene, but do not have the disease. (Most of these carriers don't know they are carriers.) CF is most common in Caucasians, but it can affect all races.

Read our story / make a donation http://www.cff.org/LWC/RichardDavis

How fast can we raise $10,000 for Cystic Fibrosis?

2009-08-19T22:13:00.002-06:00

I NEED EVERYONE'S HELP! Please visit my home page: http://www.cff.org/LWC/RichardDavis. I am going to raise $10,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation by October 31st!!! BE A PART OF THE CURE!! I am asking for donations of any amount. $1, $5, $1...0, $100 or what ever you can do. I just donated $100. SEND MY LINK TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW. EMAIL, FACEBOOK, MYSPACE. TWITTER. Lets see how fast we can make a difference! Help Change A Life!

Today and Yesterday and Tomorrow

2009-08-10T13:18:00.010-06:00

It's fun to watch Clare climb in and out of small spaces.

Sometimes she gets stuck and ends up in uncomfortable positions.

But she learns how to get out and eventually where not to go.

And sometime she gets to see things the rest of us can't.

Of Life and the Park -Chrysi Davis-
That was a wonderful day of playing in the heat and sunshine and watching Clare enjoy the thrill of a playground. So much has happened since that day at the park.
But today we had another outing in the park and it's nice to know that even though our worlds get turned upside down over and over again we can still turn ourselves right side up, get through the hard stuff and go back to the park.
And things will happen again. Life will catch us unaware and teach us hard lessons. Then we'll go back to the park. We'll swing through the air and plunge down the slide and imagine we're flying.

Since that time in the park my last blog was about a lot has transpired. Rick returned from China and we spent a couple days together loving being in the same place again. It changed from July to August so quickly. We enrolled Clare in a clinical study of a CF treatment. And I've spent some time in the hospital with pulmonary embolisms. The three of us have each had our medical moments this year so now we're all caught up for a while. Worse things can and do happen.
I want to thank everyone who has been concerned for us, who has been praying for us, who has taken the time to check in on us to see how things are. If you've kept us in your thoughts for even a moment thank you. We felt your support, you love, your thoughts, your prayers and we thank God for giving us friends and family like you. God works through people and it is through you that we have felt his love and compassion for us. And we are so very grateful.
Thank you.

Day at the Park

2009-07-28T22:47:00.004-06:00

We went to Liberty Park today to play around the water. Tuesday is maintenance day, the water was off. Doesn't matter, they have a great play area sponsored by the Rotary. Here's a few cute picts of Clare.

I Did That?! Wow.

2009-07-28T22:09:00.007-06:00

Have you ever set out to do something you weren't sure you could do well enough to please yourself. Then when you finished and took a step back to look at the completed project you were super happy with how well you did.
Well this is one of those moments and I feel so good about it that I'm going to share it with everyone.

I have a couple aprons I like to keep in the kitchen. I wanted a place I could hang them that looked good and I didn't want to drill a bunch of holes in the walls or cabinets. So, I had this idea that I would put hooks onto a decorative wall hanging so that I could hang multiple hooks from only one hole in the wall and get some art into the room.
We were given a lovely biscuit jar at our wedding that we keep out on our counter. I enjoy it so much I duplicated the pattern on it and hand painted my own decorative apron hanger. Yeah, I painted it all by myself. Hurray.

On the left is the wood right after I painted it. On the right it is hanging on my kitchen wall with a protective glossy coating, hardware and an apron. I'm amazed it looks so much the way I wanted it to look.

July, begining of the heat.

2009-07-15T20:55:00.017-06:00

The month is only half begun. Here's a compilation of pictures for what we've done so far. I just love taking and posting pictures.
Enjoy!

Clare at our 2nd annual Independence Day family brunch.

There's a little red chair just her size at my moms house. She loves to carry it around and use it.

Here she is again just looking too cute and growing up too fast.

She likes to snuggle under her blanket and say "Shhhh! Sleepys."

This is an awesome sunset picture Rick took before fireworks started up at Jordanelle Reservoir.

Rick and Clare and I playing around at Jordanelle waiting for the fireworks. It wasn't very cold but Clare has these nit caps that loves to wear no matter what temperature it is.

Check out these carrots we pulled from our garden July 14th! They're huge and twisted! Maybe next year we will use a tiller instead of old fashioned sweat and a shovel.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RICK!!!

2009-06-25T12:27:00.005-06:00

For Ricks birthday his dad took us and Rick's sister with her youngest child to dinner and a Salt Lake Bees game.

Dinner was at Kyoto. I admit it was a little crazy to bring two toddlers, but it was still fun. The kids were both really good. We only had one spill across the table and one spoonful of soup flung.

The Bees game was easier. The kids could run around by our knees and we could give them room to run when we needed too. The Bees even won 5-4 hurray!

Rick received a few camping items that I hope we can enjoy sooner than later.

Birthdays are a great time to reflect on a person and let them know how much they mean to you. If I had to choose one person to be stranded on an island with it would of course be Rick. Rick is a positive upbeat person. He is easygoing but still thoughtful. Of course we would both go stir crazy on an island. Rick and I love to get out and do things.

The past 2 months haven't been easy on my amazing husband. Right before Clare was diagnosed, April 10th, with CF he began experiencing a bout of Vertigo that became sever enough to keep him in bed for 5 days. The immobility caused by the vertigo aggravated a herniated disk in his lower spine. He had it operated on on June 4th and is already feeling much better. But that time he spent from Easter until the operation he was in pain no matter what position he was in. He couldn't sleep in his own bed.

He was still my biggest support when it can to dealing with Cystic Fibrosis on a personal level. Of course Rick had that to deal with also but he was unable to attend the initial clinical appointments. He had to learn everything second hand through me. In spite of my flaws he picked up on the therapy and diet changes and ran with them. He even asked me if I would let him do the evening therapy. (Of course he can!) In spite of his own pain and discomfort he has done all he could to help Clare and I with our burdens.

Since his operation he has been feeling better joking and laughing just like before. I hadn't realized just how hard it was until I could compare. What a trial the last 2 months have been. I hope the rest of the summer is non-eventful and full of fun simple times with my best friend and favorite person, Rick.

Loves Her Baby Doll

2009-06-18T13:24:00.006-06:00

Clare was playing around with her doll the other day. She got into the diaper bag and pulled out one of her diapers. For the next 30 min much to the delight of Rick and myself she tried to figure out just how to get the diaper on her doll.
She started by putting the diaper on the floor. Then she put the doll on the floor next to it. Then she would pick up the diaper and look at the doll. She'd pick up the doll and with the diaper in one hand and the doll in the other she would put them together trying so hard to get the diaper and doll to somehow fit onto each other.
The funniest part was Rick and I would be watching her and she would pick it all up and go into another room. And when we would follow her she would move again. She didn't want us watching her figure this out.
I finally showed her how took it apart and showed her again.
The video is what she accomplished after I showed her.

Clare also has taken an interest in the wet wipes. besides loving to pull the out one by one until the package is empty she also seems to know that they are used on babies. So she takes them out and places them on her doll where a diaper would go. I was trying to get a flick of her pressing a pile of wet wipes onto her doll but she stopped just one moment too soon. I guess she was pretty pleased with her work. check out the footage I did manage to get now that her doll has been properly wet wiped.

Elliot's Angels & Clare's Crusaders T-Shirts now available

2009-05-15T16:27:00.002-06:00

This year for the Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis walk at Wheeler Historic Farm, we have created a team T-Shirt. Help us the fight to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis by purchasing a "Elliot's Angels and Clare's Crusaders" T-Shirt. Proceeds will go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to help find a cure. T-Shirts are $10. If you are unable to attend the walk and would still like to show your support as an "Angel & Crusader" for Elliot and Clare by purchasing a T-shirt, please let us know what sizes you need and we can arrange for pick up or delivery. We appreciate all of the love and support we have received and are very optimistic on what the future holds for Elliot and Clare. Help us in our fight to spread awareness and find a cure.

Join us at Great Strides!

2009-05-01T22:59:00.006-06:00

Great Strides is a walk to raise awareness about CF, support CF families and friends and raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis research.

We're inviting everyone who is able to join us at Wheeler Farm on Saturday May 16th at 10:00 am. Besides helping out you're going to have fun and so will your kids if you bring them.

Here's the information copied straight off their flier.

Here's some fun we're having at the Salt Lake walk on May 16th:

Free food and drink from Texas Roadhouse, Einstein's Bagel Co., Frito Lays, Fiji Water and Dannon Yogurt.

Have some fun with the band Str8 Up, Best Buy Rock Band Live, Home depot Kids Club, Skate Crew, Massage Therapist, Premier Productions Dance Group and more!

Don't forget to bring your money for your Sun cleaning products, sold at low prices for CF!

Appearances by Miss Utah, Miss Teen Utah, Leo Real Salt Lake, Grizz (Utah Grizzlies), Bumble (Salt Lake Bees), and Swoop from the UofU!

All the walks will be just as fun as SLC! See you there!

CF Foundation (801) 281-1886
Nancy, Ashley & Laura

What Now? Read on...

2009-04-22T12:13:00.008-06:00

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

We're doing great. We have felt the love of God through everyone around us and we are truly blessed. Our day to day life isn't significantly different. We have a slightly longer morning and bed time routine and some medicine during the day, that's all. Rather than focusing on worst case scenarios we will remain optimistic and grateful. Life is wonderful and we're going to enjoy it. We're also going to use our new outlook as an opportunity to learn all we can and to spread awareness.

Join Us
Part of what we're doing is participating the Great Strides Walk at Wheeler Farm Sat. May 16th 9:00 am. This is a great opportunity to get together support each other and have a fun little walk with the kids. Together with Clare's cousin Elliot we're forming a group called Elliot's Angels and Clare's Crusaders. It's FREE of charge. Donations are accepted but not nessasary. If you can join us registration is online. Here's a link: http://www.cff.org/Great_Strides/ChrysiDavis

We'd love to have as many people as we can there. We're also makeing t-shirts for those who would like them. Let me know if you're intrested in one.

Clare's Aunt Amanda has put together a really great video about her and Cystic Fibrosis. There's a short clip about Clare (top) and there's a short clip (about 4 min) about her and Elliot combined (below). It's a great way to learn a little more about Clare, our family and CF. Please take a moment to watch one.

Thanks to all for your love and support and prayers. You strengthen us.

Elliot and Clare

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Hard News .... Plenty of Hope

2009-04-11T20:48:00.006-06:00

Friday was a long day. It all started weeks ago when Clare fell down the cement steps outside. Her head looked so bad that we took her to the ER and got a CT scan. No problems form the fall but her sinuses looked VERY bad. They sent us the the Ear Nose Thought Dr. The ENT Dr. scheduled an MRI and a Sweat Chloride Test.

Friday we arrived at the Hospital at 7:00 am for the MRI stayed for the SC test and finally got home just after noon. 4:15 pm we got the call we didn't want. Clare has Cystic Fibrosis. That was some of the toughest news I've ever received.

The good news is we've found it fairly early. There are great local Dr.s and treatments and they are making great strides in researching new treatments. Although we don't know much about Clare's type it doesn't appear to be extremely sever. She's still healthy, we found this because of a head injury. We can treat it and try to keep her healthy.

Life will change for us we won't find out how much until next week. (Which will probably be a long one.)

About Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
CF is a life-threatening genetic disease that causes mucus to build up and clog some of the organs in the body, particularly the lungs and pancreas. When mucus clogs the lungs, it can make breathing very difficult. The thick mucus also causes germs to get stuck in the airways, which causes swelling and infections that lead to lung damage.

Mucus also can block the digestive tract and pancreas. The mucus stops digestive enzymes from getting to the intestines. The body needs these enzymes to break down food and get important nutrients to help people grow and stay healthy. People with CF often need to replace these enzymes with medicine they take with their food, which helps them digest and get proper nutrition. For more info go to http://www.cff.org/
Life expectancy is 35 to 50 years. We're going to expect longer.

2009-03-02T18:17:00.002-07:00

Whirlwind trip to China!

2009-03-02T17:42:00.002-07:00

Well the last ten days have been both amazing and difficult. I had the opportunity to travel to China for a business trip, but I wasn't able to bring my two favorite girls with me. Traveling for 20+ hours on an airplane can get very annoying very quick. Unfortunately there was little time to do sight seeing, but I did enjoy the few opportunities that I was given to enjoy the experiences of a foreign land. Instead of explaining every detail of the trip, I have attached the following slide show of my adventures. I spent 2 nights in Shanghai and 5 nights in Kunming, which is in the south central part of China above Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. It has made me realize how much we take for granted everything that we have. People work so hard over there just to get by. What an amazing experience.

Adventures in Moma Land

2009-02-03T11:03:00.010-07:00

Has anybody else ever hid snacks so that their cute child would stop asking for them every time they see them? Clare doesn't talk yet. If she wants something, she reaches for it opening and closing her little fist and begins to hyperventilate. It's actually both cute and not cute at the same time. I got her some freeze dried yogurt snacks and was giving them to her in the computer room yesterday. I hid the bag when I felt like she'd had enough. Now I can't find the bag. I'm hoping I can remember in a couple hours or days rather than a few months or longer.

I always like to put a picture with my blog so, here she is! Clare began doing this on her own this morning. Putting the hat on and off and pulling it over her face.

January? Your kidding!

2009-01-27T10:23:00.015-07:00

Alright, so yes I did know it's January but it didn't look like it with all the rain we were getting. It sure is nice to have some new fresh snow!
What a year it's been already. I'm (Chrysi) older, Rick's brother is leaving for the MTC in no time at all, Clare is growing out of her old nap schedule, and Rick may get an opportunity to travel for work. I'm acctually tired because I shoveled about 6 inches of snow and slush out of our 35 foot drivway yesterday.
Anyway, January has been good to us! Here's some pictures.

It's important to remember to let her feed herself or she won't be very happy and she just won't eat. Which means it's even more important to remember to get out the bib.

She wanted to play with the keys when I was unlocking the door so I showed her what they are for. Now she wants to play with them and stick them in all the little cracks she can find. Smart blue eyed girl!

Of course keys aren't the only item to be figured out. So, if it can be pushed hoisted or moved, it is.

It's DECEMBER!?!

2008-12-11T10:37:00.004-07:00

It's been December for 11 days now but it has only felt like it since the latest snow fall. I also just realized that there's a little less than 14 days until Christmas. Wow!
Here's a little recap on November to cover all those posts we would have put up if we had used our time that way.

Thanksgiving weekend. We had so much fun spending the weekend with family down near Capitol Reef. We also got to chop our own Christmas tree.

Walking like a champ! This girl is off to a running start in her new coat.

Utah Football. We all loved the Utah vs BYU game. Especially the final score!

1 year old. Can you believe it's been a year. I took this picture of her on her birthday. She has grown up so much ans she's still the most beautiful baby to me.

The Giant Stuffed Hippo she got for Christmas last year is one of the most fun toys you can tackle.

Clare's First Steps

2008-11-17T20:55:00.001-07:00

Long time, no post!

2008-11-11T15:28:00.002-07:00

Alright I'm way behind so here is my excuse.
First, our computer went on the blitz because of a virus. When we took it in to get it off they had to keep it for a week and wipe EVERYTHING off because it was all so corrupted by viruses and spy ware and you name it... Then when we got it back it took a while to dig through the moving boxes we STILL haven't unpacked and find the disks we needed to reinstall EVERYTHING.
Once it was reinstalled Clare and I (Chrysi) took off with Ricks side of the family on vacation for 8 days. Disneyland, Sea World, and Mission Beach. Then I had to use all my spare time to finish making Clare's Halloween costume.
So that's it. I guess I've just been procrastinating since Nov. 1 because that's where my excuses run out. I'll put up another post soon with plenty of pictures of our adventures.

Family Pictures and Birthday week

2008-09-16T19:31:00.009-06:00

Another week flies by and I'm not quite sure if I was awake as it happened. I guess this blog is my outlet to figure out what actually occurred and whether it really mattered or not. As we get older and our family circles continue to grow exponentially, I realize that I forget more birthdays than I remember. I do declare it a miracle that I actually remembered both Charlie's and my Dad's Birthdays this past week.

Our family has a tradition for Birthday celebrations. A delicious celebratory dinner is prepared by mom with the birthday boy or girl incharge of selecting the menu. (I am sure this is pretty typical of many familys.) But near the end of dinner, Dad motions to the family that it is time to take a moment and allow each member of the family to express their thoughts and feelings about the honored member of the family. I must admit that it can be uncomfortable when upon notification from dad that it is now my turn to share my feelings. I probably should prepare before these events knowing what is most certainly going to occur. Well this past week, we had two birthday dinners. Sunday the 7th was Charlies 17th birthday, and this last Sunday we celebrated Dad's birthday. Unfortunately, due to a strange rash that Clare developed, we elected to stay home and family pictures with Chrysi's family before Airety and Brian leave for Germany, we were unable to participate in the events.

So I feel that I have now had addequate time to prepare and would like to share my thoughts about my brother 10 years younger and the man I wish I could be more like, my Dad. I feel like time passes so quickly and if we waste the opportunities we are given we will forever regret it. As an older brother I have felt the burden of being the good example and the bar setter for my younger brothers. When they slip up or don't achieve the very best, I tend to take the blame for not being the best example and supportive brother I could have been. I know its not my fault, but I always ask myself if I am being the brother I should be. Could I make a better effort to attend a soccer game, cross country, swimming or water polo meet? Of course the answer is a resounding YES! But I have noticed something this year. I have some of the most accomplished and talented brothers who achieve and find success in almost every avenue they take. Charlie is one such example. I will forgive him for not continuing the running and soccer tradition and taking on swimming and water polo. Charlie is an amazing athlete and is one of the hardest workers I know. He has taken his education more seriously and has recognized the potential he has to be successful in everything he does with correctly applied effort. I am so excited for the doors of opportunity that are opening up to him because of his work ethic. Charlie is a great example and role model for me in my work and family life. I am so proud of him and greatful to be his brother. We love you Charlie!

Being a third generation Richard, I have the mantle of living up to the greatness my great uncle and father have given the name. Dad has always been and will continue to be the image of knowlege, love, security, hard work, and spirituality. Like most children, we view our parents as invincible and perfect people who we want emulate in every way. Although I realize that my father is neither invincible or perfect, I still desire to be like him in almost every way. Dad has always be available for me. As a soccer, basketball, baseball, and tee ball coach, Scoutmaster, Bishop, spectator, tutor, teacher, and cheerleader, Dad has always been invested in his families interests. As a man that works harder and probably just as long and as anyone else I know, he has always put aside his work to be actively involved in our lives. Dad has taught me a great lesson of how important a successful education is by his example and hard work. As a husband who does all of the laundry and ironing in the house and as a gardener extrodinaire, Dad has instilled a sense of responsibility that I have to be a better support to Chrysi and father to Clare. Dad, I love you and Happy Birthday!

A Little Olympic Spirit

2008-08-26T21:16:00.005-06:00

Well the Olympics are now over and I can actually
try to get something done productive, especially
sleep. I thought all might want to see who the last
cut was for the U.S. womens gymnastics team. As
my personal opinion, had the U.S. had not cut this
girl, we would have the team gold medal and we
wouldn't have to complain that the Chinese beat us
with 8 year olds. And plus, she is at least 16! Enjoy!

1st Trip to Hogle Zoo!!!!

2008-08-26T18:59:00.007-06:00

Amidst all of the chaos of Work and Studying and Fixing the house, we thought that it was time to take Clare on her first visit to Hogle Zoo. It was extra fun because Grandma Alta came with us. Despite the heat, she did amazing. She loved the animals, especially the monkeys. It was fun to see all of the animals. This is also the first visit for me in almost 15 years. It has changed a lot for the better. We are so lucky to have such a wonderful place to see and learn about animals from all over the world. If you haven't been for a while, I strongly recommend you go and enjoy a day with the animals. Thanks for coming mom.

Take Me Out To....

2008-08-26T14:24:00.004-06:00

We got to go to a Bee's game on the weekend. It was so fun! The bees lost, (which stunk), but there were fireworks at the end of the game. I love fireworks and I finally figured out how to take successful pictures of them, (thanks Ritz Pix). Check out my panorama. Yeah, I took those.
Here are some pics. of us at the game. We also got to go with our niece and nephew. they are some of the greatest kids! We love them.

House Update

2008-08-26T13:54:00.005-06:00

We've been asked by a few people how we're doing on our house.
So here is the update.

AUGUST 25th _____vs ____THE BEGINNING

Confession

2008-08-07T17:27:00.004-06:00

I have a confession. I crave HONEY. (My mouth is watering as I type. No lie.) I Love Honey. I have fond memories of eating it as a child in the back of our play room when my mother wasn't watching. White honey is the best. Acctualy I haven't found a flavor or type that isn't great. I can't buy and wear the honey scented lotion at Bath and Body Works because smelling it on myself makes me want to guzzle honey. Really, the smell is so distracting that I can't think of other things while I'm smelling it.

I try not to buy honey often because if I have it I want to eat it constantly, (or drink it). Although I can easily spend over 15min staring at it in the grocery store isle it's not to hard to resist buying it when it costs $12.00/lb. That makes it $34.00 per gallon. (good thing we don't rely on foreign imports of honey to fuel our lavish lifestyles.)

This is distressing! For some unknown reason the worlds honeybee population is taking a serious nosedive. That's right, the bees are dying and no one knows why! This is more serious than my insatiable honey hunger. Honey bees are relied upon to pollinate 80% of the produce grown in the US. The honey bee shortage could create a serious food shortage as well. I'm going to stop before I pass out from honey lust but if you would like to learn more please go to http://HelpTheHoneyBees.com - Chrysi (I sign because I don't want to smear Rick or Clare with my sticky confession)

Independence Day

2008-07-07T13:05:00.007-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July as you celebrated our nations independence. Here are three movies that have raised my appreciation of all we enjoy here in the USA. Let me know which movies or books have made an impact on you.
The Kite Runner
Hotel Rwanda (Both made me realize just how frightened and desperate I would feel living in a terrorist run country)
1776 (Yeah I like musicals. This one is of course about the making of the Declaration of Independents.)
Referring to the first two movies it's not hard to imagine how you would feel living in those circumstances with your own family. We don't have to go through those terrible happenings. The freedoms we enjoy have been fought for and won on and off of US soil. Let us remember those who have fought for us to ensure our freedom and the freedom of our childrens' children. We live in a wonderful country let us all be sure we are doing all we can to maintain and improve it.
Thank you for letting me stand on my patriotic soap box. Have a wonderful July. Don't stop celebrating! God Bless the USA! - Chrysi
Speaking of Celebrating, Here are some picts of what we did:

We were invited to a special breakfast that is only available
one time a year. Thanks mom, it was great!

Doesn't she look patriotic?

Grandma and Grandpa Robinson

Clare goes for her first swim at grandma's house

As you can see, Clare doesn't mind the water.
She is a natural water baby like her mom and
dad were.

1 Year Older

2008-07-02T10:30:00.006-06:00

The surprise party we held for Rick went very well. Thanks to everyone for making it such a success.
And yes, we did actually surprise him! It wasn't easy, but it was fun!

Review of Ricks past year:
Last year on his birthday I was pregnant and we had just found out it was a girl.
Within 24 hrs of learning her gender we decided to name our first daughter Clare Beth.
Rick spent that summer going to class, preparing for the next school year as Beta Alpha Psi President, serving in our ward bishopric, and working full time. But with a little golf and roller coaster rides without his pregnant wife he was still able to enjoy himself.
The Fall only continued in the same pattern, (School, BAP pres., church, full-time work), except his first child was born mid November!
Winter was just as busy until Feb. When we bought our first house and Accounting-Busy-Season started. So on top of all the craziness he was working 60 hr weeks and we were fixing up and moving in to our first house.
Rick finally got a break in May and boy did we need it! Life has calmed down now that school, BAP, and busy season all ended. A change in jobs and wards has also made a big difference in his time commitments.
So now June, Ricks birth month has ended and he is not just a year older he is a year wiser also. "one thing at a time" are his words of wisdom expressed after the past year of frenetic activity.

We're Back! (although some of us didn't really leave)

2008-06-07T08:56:00.009-06:00

These are our nephews who live in Kansas. Aren't they great!

Rick did make it out to Kansas and he enjoyed the visit a lot. The only thing that wasn't so great was that Clare and I couldn't come. We missed him a lot! Rick missed us too. So much that he made the drive back in one day. Yeah. We're all together again and that's the best.

We're still working on the house. I don't know if we'll ever finish unpacking and fixing things. Maybe next year.

2008-05-21T11:59:00.004-06:00

Clare loves to give the best smiles ever! The picture below is of Clare with her cousin Elliot. Elliot is only 3 weeks older than Clare.

So much for Kansas City and Nauvoo.

2008-05-18T12:25:00.003-06:00

Since I had a month off of work before I start my new job, Chrysi and I decided that we should go on a family vacation. We had been in the market for another family car to allow Chrysi to be mobile once I begin work again and it turned out that my sister Amanda was asked us if we wanted to buy hers. We bought it and now had a family vacation planned. Fly back to KC, pick up the car, visit the Fam, and then drive up to Nauvoo and see the church sites. It sounded too good to be true. Well, I guess it was!
At about the middle of the week, Clare started getting a cold (from her mom, who received it from who knows where). We were still planning on going until Friday night, the night before our flight. Clare was getting really sick, and so was I and Chrysi was only starting to feel better. Clare didn't sleep more than 2 hrs that night. As you can guess neither did we. I spent most of the evening walking up and down our new neighborhood streets with Clare wrapped up in a blanket in my arms. Side note: We have a beautiful neighborhood, at least for a 3am perspective. So Saturday morning came and we decided that we didn't want to share our lovely plague with Amanda and whoever else comes in contact with us (i.e. plane, airport, Saints in Nauvoo). We didn't want to start an epidemic. So we are still at home and our car is still in KC. We will have to figure out how to get the car later when we can think and walk straight.
Maybe we just aren't meant for Nauvoo, or Nauvoo isn't meant for us. This isn't the first attempt that Chrysi and I have made to go visit the "City of Joseph" (Nauvoo). Two years ago Chrysi and I planned a great road trip back to Nauvoo with Roy, Jani, Airety and Lissa. Well that didn't happen either. Chrysi's family ended up going, but I had been hampered with a herniated disc in my lower spine, and couldn't sit in a car for over 10 minutes without passing out due to the pain. I encouraged Chrysi to go with her Family and leave me at home. But due to the wonderful loving nature that she has, she stayed home with me. What a SWEETHEART!!!! So we didn't get there. Better luck next time!
George, Henry and Clifton, We do love you guys and someday we will come visit you. We just need to figure out how to get the curse lifted.

He's Finished!

2008-05-17T16:01:00.002-06:00

The latest and greatest news from our family is about Rick.
He completed his Masters of Professional Accountancy emphasis in Taxation!

Graduation was on May 2nd and I've been waiting for pictures before I posted anything. Still don't have any but I'll put one up as soon as I do.

It was a long and hard but Rick stuck to it and we made it. I'm so proud and excited and happy. I just don't have the right words for it!

New Home Renovations!

2008-05-14T22:47:00.004-06:00

We began looking at houses in January. In February we found one with tons of potential. Our offer was accepted on Valentines Day, (we'll never top that gift). We closed in March and have been working so hard that all our New Years Resolutions got put aside including keeping the blog updated. Well, we finally have an internet connection. So, I can resolve once again to update this blog and keep it going!
Check out our progress in the slide show. It's been a real project and it's not finished yet.

We had tons of help from family and want to say a big "THANK YOU!!! We couldn't have done it without you!"

Cutest Baby Ever!

2008-05-12T13:50:00.007-06:00

Of course I still think my baby is the cutest baby of all time. Little Clare keeps growing and it's exciting every day.
We just moved and have been doing quite a lot of remodeling on our new house. She's been with us during the entire project and she's been an Angel to put up with so much chaos.
Here are a couple pictures of her. I'll put up a post about the house with some pictures soon.

A New Year, A New Post

2008-01-12T13:46:00.000-07:00

New years resolution: Keep the blog updated.

Our lives right now.

Rick: Working on his last semester of the Masers of Accountancy program. He's also got a job lined up for when he finishes in May.

Chrysi: Resigned from her formal full time job in order to be a full time Mommy. I love it!

Clare: Still growing, especially her hair.

Clare Beth Davis

2007-11-17T14:24:00.000-07:00

At 9:10am on November 17th, Clare Beth Davis was born. She weighed 6 lbs 13 oz. We are so excited to have her in our lives.

Welcome to the Family

2007-05-17T23:41:00.000-06:00

Big News for the Davis clan. Sometime near mid November we are expecting our first baby. We won't know if it is a boy or girl until July. Last week we celebrated our 3rd anniversary by going to see the musical Les Miserables at the Pioneer Theatre Company. It was amazing as anticipated.
Rick will begin working on his masters in accounting this August. He is also keeping busy at an accounting firm and as the president of Beta Alpha Psi. Chrysi is busy working at the University and getting ready to be a mommy. Life is great and always moving forward.