Pennies from Heaven

Mads goes to timeout!

2011-02-24T10:38:00.000-08:00

Today was Madilyn's first "time out". In our house we have three different spots we tend to use. In public I call it the naughty wall and they have to grab a seat against the wall. Mady has been more curious about why the girls are in time out and she will try to sit with them and even comfort them if they are crying. Well today was her first visit to the naughty wall. She has been discovering that she can not only fight back but pick a fight too. Little stinker!

Mady's new favorite feisty activities (in no particular order):

Hitting with objects

Spitting at you

Spitting in general

Biting

Pulling hair

Snatching toys from others

Throwing toys

I am sure there are probably more if I watched her for another two minutes...yep, pinching and slapping. She just did both, to me, while I was typing this. She now knows that these behaviors are BAD and she knows she shouldn't be doing them. She will even get an evil grin when doing them (I knew there was a reason we call her Mads). So today when she hauled off and bashed a toy into Layla's head. I gave Layla the attention first and then escorted Mady right to the naughty spot. Her little face was in SHOCK.

Disbelief...

I AM IN TIME OUT!!!???

Then she just started to wail and huge tears came down her little cheeks. She sat for a moment and then she got up and came to see what I was doing with Layla. I had to take her back about three times but she finally stayed. Layla said to me, "Mom are you going to have a talk with her about acceptable behavior?" I reassured her that I would.

My girls favorite part about their sisters going into time out is that they are told to say they are sorry and they have to apologize, NICELY, and give them a hug. I usually have them repeat a phrase about how we SHOULD behave, such as..." I am sorry I did____ to you. I am sorry and I know better. I am your big/little sister and I WILL BE nice and ...well you get the idea.

Mady's vocabulary is not quiet there yet but Layla was ready for her apology. I spoke to Mady and she just had a huge sad frown on her face. When I said to her "you can't hit because it hurts", she started to bawl again. Through the tears, she gave Layla a big hug and smooch and then, Layla took a tissue and helped wipe her face, then took her hand and walked her into the kitchen to have a snack with her. Soon Mady was smiling again. I think she learned a big lesson today. I can't believe I have to start time out with MY BABY! They grow up too darn fast.

DisneyLand- Day THREE

2011-02-22T14:33:00.000-08:00

Every morning is a great morning in Disneyland. As soon as we walk through the gates we are able to visit with some fun characters. This year there were more characters than I remember last time and a huge variety of them too! The girls loved being able to spot them and get their autographs.

This being our last day here in the Happiest Place on Earth, we have two main goals...See Santa in his Christmas Village with the reindeer, and Find The Enchanted Forest and track down Sleeping Beauty. First Stop Santa's Village~

They had live reindeer too, but Pluto was more fun!
Outside of Santa's Cabin~

Samantha was excited to tell Santa she wanted a Nintendo DS for Christmas!!

Layla was less excited to share her Christmas list....

On Santa's front porch...we ran into someone SPECIAL~ Mrs. Claus

Have I ever told you how much I love smooches, especially from this little one! Awww!

Jack and Sally at the Haunted Mansion~ We seen them while sneaking over to fit in Splash Mountain yet another time.

As we are walking over to go to the Enchanted Forest, we round the corner and I notice a little cottage that we had looked at last night called TANGLED. They have a line roped off and they are just taking down the rope when I realize they have the NEW PRINCESS HERE!! Rapunzel is just getting ready to greet the crowd for the first time. We quickly ditch the stroller and jump in line...about twenty people behind us they close the line as quickly as they had opened it and we had made it IN!
Inside the cottage, Rapunzel's hair is strung up along the window, like a thick, lush curtain and down the wall and out the door...my girls FREAKED! Layla instantly had a new favorite and she had never seen the movie (at that point).

Nothing makes my girls smile...like a REAL LIVE PRINCESS!

After meeting this great duo...it is off to the Enchanted Forrest for us. There is a big amphitheatre and there is a princess show every hour. We happened to get there just before another show started and got front row seats. Some of the characters came out onto the dance floor to meet and greet the children.

At that point they told the audience that this was an interactive show and everyone was welcome onto the dance floor...my kids didn't have to be told twice...they bolted down in a FLASH! Sam started posing with all the beautiful scenery...

This place is beautiful...and not very crowded...at least when we were there.

Soon the show begins...and GUESS WHO MAKES AN APPEARANCE...

SLEEPING BEAUTY!!

To be fair, we new she would be there, because I had to go and ask how to track her down. I was told that she does the breakfast two or three times a week and then she appears in the Coronation Show (next we will know to just come straight here). The princesses come right down into the audience and dance with you. They have a place that you can meet the princesses and there is at least 3-4 out at a time and they change hourly...such a great find for my girls. I wish we had done this attraction on the first day.

Now if you have ever spent time with my kiddos you know how much they LOVE face painting. Of course after the show we find the Princess Beauty shop~

Swans and Butterflies...what could be more beautiful? Oh, and did I add sparkles too!

From here we went over to toon town...

this place is a T R I P

...it looks like you have walked right into a cartoon. So fun!!
In Minnie Mouse's House~

~Minnie's powder room
~Minnie's bedroom

T O O N T O W N ~

I love this picture! And I loved this vacation with my girls and family. So glad we were able to go. I have to say that soon after Christmas we went to see Tangled and Layla just LOVES that show and that princess. She kept shouting out, "We seen her in Disneyland!" Every morning when we comb her hair, she tells me that her hair is long like Tangled.

In the preview of the movie there was also a commercial for Disney Cruise Lines...Grandma made the comment, "That would be fun." In turn I replied, "Yeah it would". Well that is all it took, Layla is certain that we have already booked the cruise. So if you have enjoyed the blog please leave me a donation for our CRUI$E fund :)

DisneyLand- Day TWO

2011-02-21T18:54:00.000-08:00

What is a trip to Disneyland without all the Royal Princesses? We started our second day off with breakfast with the princesses at Ariel's Grotto. But first we had to make our little girls into princesses too.

Madilyn with tiara and tutu! Sporting the colors of Miss Minnie Mouse.

Layla dressed as Cinderella...her favorite princess.

...And Samantha as her favorite, Princess Aurora from Sleeping Beauty.

Hair done and heels on, we are ready to walk out the door!

Sassy little DIVAS~

Yikes...we open the door to POURING RAIN...oh well we are having breakfast with Royalty come rain or shine. Bring out the umbrellas.

We are welcomed by Ariel and seated for breakfast, while we wait to meet the princesses. Sam was hoping for Sleeping Beauty...last time we were here she didn't show for breakfast. We were told she had slept in. Well, Princess Aurora wasn't here this time either but look who was...

Sam was happy to see Mulan. Anyone that fights with swords is AWESOME in her book.

Layla was SO HAPPY to meet Cinderella~

Look at the love and the smiles!!

After breakfast, we went back to the room, changed clothes and tried waiting out the rain. After an hour, we headed back out and were graced with glimpses of SUNSHINE!

Since we were already wet, we headed back over to Splash Mountain and visited Pooh's Corner and all of the gang. Mady and Layla loved this bright, fun ride!

POOH'S CORNER ~ Sam remembered this spot from our last visit (almost three years ago). She wanted to pose here all day, because she loves her picture here from her first visit.

Who can spot the grumpy LADYBUG...in the middle of the hunny bees?

Our busy little HUNNY BEE~ A smile that guarantees LOTS OF SOUVENIRS~

Aladdin and Princess Jasmine~ The Lamp...Sam wants to make 3 wishes too~

With all the rain...we were forced indoors for souvenir shopping/playing. My princess immediately found herself a shield and sword. My Mad Hatter found her companion...The Cheshire Cat.

MR. TOAD'S WILD RIDE~

Shopping creates an appetite for CHURROS AND HOT CHOCOLATE~

(more please!?)

Sugar HIGH! Sugar LOW~

We adore the Sleeping Beauty Castle at night~

A Happily Ever After~ Grandma Susan told us about the Enchanted Forest where the Princesses live...guess we will find that tomorrow.

DisneyLand 2010 Day ONE

2011-02-21T15:18:00.000-08:00

Due to popular demand by friends and family to see more pictures of the Filby DisneyLand vacation here is a post (or two, or three...) dedicated to our magical trip that we went on just before Thanksgiving. It was the greatest kick-off to our Christmas season. The girls had an absolute wonderful time...and lets not KID ourselves so did all of the adults!

First we had to get there...via airplane. The first time we went Samantha thought that the plane would land right in DisneyLand.

We were promptly greeted by none other than Minnie and Micky Mouse and some of their Disney celebrity friends!!

It's A SMALL WORLD!!! This ride had my girls in amazement the whole time and we loved listening to Grandma Susan sing to us. There were 11 people in our group and we all loaded onto one boat for a great time together. Hands down (or UP in my girl's case) this ride is in our

TOP 5!

Samantha and Layla with their cousin Taryn~

Grandma and Gradpa filby leading the way..in song no less (well at least Grandma)

SLASH MOUNTAIN!!! Sam loved it...Layla liked it...we will leave it at that :) Layla found herself over whelmed with the theatrics and the dark (which seemed to loom at every ride with special effects and glow in the dark artistic elements). However she loved Space Mountain which is completely in the dark???

This magical place becomes even more magical after the sun goes down...

Main Street~

Sleeping Beauty's Castle~

Walking over to California Adventure to catch the WORLD OF COLOR light and fountain show on the river.

The girls enjoying the view after Dinner and before the show. My girls were so excited to have their cousins on this trip with them.

Princess Ariel in the the fountain and lights...amazing show!

All tuckered out after our first day in DisneyLand followed up with a short swim and bath. Goodnight...

Don't worry I have LOTS more to come... after all we haven't even seen the Princesses yet!

blogging + me = frustration.... grrr!

2011-02-19T14:02:00.000-08:00

BLOG OVERHAUL IN PROCESS... I really need a blog tutorial...I can't figure out fun text scripts, headers...anything...so frustrating. Well I have added some fun and up-to-date family stuff. Take a look and leave me a message if you now how to do all the fun stuff in the blogging world. I really want my headers a different color???
P.S. This attempt to re-enter the blogging world...yet again...is in honor of you Deb!

Who Has Spirit? Sam has Spirit YES SHE DOES!

2010-05-11T14:27:00.000-07:00

Samantha participated in school spirit week and I was sure to snap photos to share each day! She was first hesitant to be CRAZY but when she got to school and seen that her best friend was "doing it too" and all the other kids gave her tons of attention....she loved it and would ask at the end of each day what the next theme was.

Monday: Crazy Hair Day

Tuesday: Wild Socks Day

Wednesday: Hat Day

Thursday: School Colors Day (green & yellow)

Friday: Backwards Day

Of course Layla wanted to get in on the action each and every morning too...

I love being at home with my girls and witnessing them discover their personalities and realizing it is OK to be different and express themselves!! Samantha is a huge influence on Layla...she will do anything her big sister asks her to. I love that she has a wonderful big sister to look up to.

Samantha Filby- JumpRope For Special Hearts

2010-05-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

Samantha is participating in a fundraiser for The American Heart Association. All the money Samantha collects goes to research for future treatments, medications, procedures and other things needed to save lives in the HEART community.

Sam is so excited to raise money and give to the children just like her that have fought to be here and pray to be blessed with many years with their families.

Sam has her own website to help her raise donations for her cause that is so dear to her heart and our families (pun intended)! Please give generously. She has set a goal of a modest $100 but I really think she can do more! Below is a link to her page. To DONATE under Sam click on the button on the RIGHT side of her web page.

http://honor.americanheart.org/site/TR/JumpforHeart/JRFH-WSA?px=2174102&pg=personal&fr_id=1287

A week of many firsts

2010-03-05T13:06:00.000-08:00

Last week was Mady's week of adventure. It was her first week of actually eating rice, oatmeal, veggies and fruits. She loves them. She has finally figured out that it is much easier to receive all that yummy food if she opens her mouth. In the weeks past I felt like I was shoving it in and hoping she wouldn't choke on it or spit it out...not knowing what to do with it. She now squeals with delight when her food is presented to her. This was the first few bites of cereal she ever had, just a few weeks ago.

Her second "first" is that she has learned to roll over at her own desire. I have peeked in on her while napping and found her in peaceful slumber on her tummy. That has been followed up with her squirming around and wiggling until she reaches what ever it is that has caught her attention. Wednesday I had her laying on her back in her bedroom playing on a blanket while I was getting Samantha and Layla ready for the day. In the bathroom I could hear the little spring on the crib being played with but I had put her a pretty good distance from the crib. I thought that the little boy that I was watching had decided to go in and play with her. However when I walked into the bedroom, sure enough she had flipped herself around to face the other direction and she was flipped on her tummy, head up high and her little fingers playing with the spring, she looked up and giggled and gave my a big grin. I was amazed!

Now I was certain the next first would be discovered by me. Mady has never spent time with another primary caregiver (daycare or sitter). Samantha spent a lot of time her first year with both my sister, Jennifer and Ryan's sister, Tionna means I had to work. I was able to quit working when Layla was six months old but by then she had already popped her first tooth out and it was discovered by my sister while she was in her care, just as she also discovered Samantha's first tooth before I did. So with Mady being in my care I was certain this "find" to be MINE! I had been checking her gums for weeks, she had been slobbering and gnawing on everything in site so I knew there was a tooth about to emerge any day. All week long I had checked....nothing. So the weekend came and we spent Sunday morning frantically getting ready for 9:00 A.M. church. Ryan gave her a bottle as I quickly finished getting myself ready and the girls and off we went. When we returned home, she was ready for lunch and a nap. I has quick to get her fed so she wouldn't fall asleep in her food. Then she took a nice long nap. Anyway...long story short...when we went to my Dad's for Sunday dinner my sister asked if Mady's tooth had broken through yet. I told her "No", and said, "I haven't checked her today because it has just been a crazy busy day". Of course she was holding Mady at the time and immediately stuck her finger in to play with her gums. Sure enough her little bottom tooth that I had been waiting for, WAS THERE for HER TO FIND! My sister starting laughing and shouted out, "YES... THREE FOR THREE!" Little stinker!! Oh well...I will be on the look out for tooth #2.

Monday night we were at dinner...eating my favorite fast food selection...Arby's Roast Beef...and Ryan and I were talking about how Mady had a wonderful week of all her first happenings. Just as we were talking about it the little toy elephant that hangs on Mady's car seat started vibrating and giggling as it does when it is pulled down. I looked over to see which child had pulled it down for Mady and we realized that she had done it all by herself. Yet another first in a matter of a few days.
It has been so fun to see her discover her world and figure things out. I love to see her personality already starting to shine through. I love you Mady....thanks for a wonderful two weeks. I am so glad I am your momma and get to be home with you and experience all you experience, WITH YOU...even though your Aunt Jenn is eagerly awaiting anything you can throw her way. I know you saved that tooth for her just to brighten her day as you do mine, each and every day : ) Smooches Little Miss Bright Eyes!!

One of my favorites of Madilyn (5 months)

I have just a few other things that I wanted to throw on here just for me. So much more has been going on in our family and we have been trying to think out of the box and find some solutions for many things going on right now.

So here are a few brilliant findings I have come across...
Samantha responses so much better to calm conversations and acknowledgment than she does to threats and bribes...imagine that drrrr! Now if I can only be patient enough to keep up with the calm conversations. She is also fully enjoying her Kindergarten year and spending every waking minute available with her best friend, Brynlee. They are so cute together. I am glad she has a good friend that she adores and appreciates. I love watching them together.

Layla loves to use the potty, especially if she knows someone else needs to use it. She will run into the bathroom, strip down her clothes and hop up on her own special, Dora, potty seat faster than anything if she thinks you are really trying to beat her there. Then she sits there and laughs at me for loosing the race. Soon she will be potty trained and I may actually miss this experience with her. She is just so dang cute now. Everything she does is adorable....even going to the potty. And of course acknowledgment works wonders...we have a candy dish full of M&Ms and a book full of stickers that we have been using as rewards for Layla and wouldn't you know it...personal attention and individual praise goes SO much further. Again imagine that....duh?

Layla doing Kung Fu, Ballet or Yoga or just being too cute!

I have also been trying to figure out a way to feel the spirit and have a calm environment in our home. I have updated my play list (if you are curious it is down below) with many songs that make me feel good and a lot of songs that really remind me of the challenges our family has faced and how important the eternal perspective of things are especially when dealing with FAMILIES! So what is the quickest way to change a mood in a home, change the background music! It is all about ambiance. Instead of bickering and yelling...we have had music playing in our home for the majority of the last two weeks and it has been WONDERFUL. Instead of chasing my rug rats around and becoming frustrated. I am dancing around the kitchen on a whim with all of my girls. I am playing games because the TV is off and I am following around three pieces of my heart on short leashes that I refer to as MY GIRLS and we are making memories together accompanied with beautiful, fun music!

As much as I love being with my girls everyday, I also NEED adult conversation and time with my husband. I had two really great talks with two really great friends yesterday (you know who you are). I vented my frustrations and talked about my girls and their kids and husbands and silly things and serious things. I was originally intending to mop my floors yesterday afternoon and instead I received two pep talks and just the right words of encouragement and love when I really needed it. I am sure you two will never know what you did for me with just a simple conversation. Thanks for including me in your day. You are wonderful ladies, mothers and wives. Your families are lucky to have you. My epiphany...I need play dates for me too! I vow to call my friends more, offer my help, accept help and make time to enjoy life with my husband and visit the Temple more {sigh}...yes, it is do-able I just need to keep thinking outside of the box.

P.S. The above photos of Mady were taken by my friend Holly of Holly Hobby Photography...you can view her prices and other works on her blog listed to the right.

Artists that lift my soul...

2010-02-24T14:55:00.000-08:00

Last week, Monday, February 15, Ryan and myself were fortunate enough to attend Paul Cardall's Celebration of Life Concert. We discovered Paul's music about two years ago and immediately fell in love with his work. At that time we were preparing for Samantha's fourth open heart surgery (valve replacement). Unknowingly at the same time Paul was about to begin suffering from Congestive Heart failure and would need a heart transplant.

We were unaware of his health condition or his connection with CHD. We only knew he was an amazing pianist and his music soothes our souls and lets peace find you even during the darkest of hours. While I was pregnant with Madilyn I had seen on Good Things Utah, that his friends were doing a benefit concert (Living for Eden) for Paul to help relieve some medical costs for this "starving" artist. I then learned he was facing some serious medical issues but I was still unaware that it was his heart ( I guess I missed the interview) that was the problem.

About two weeks before Valentine's Day this year Ryan decided to look up his blog and see how his health and music was going. This is when we discovered that he had been recovering from his HEART TRANSPLANT!! He is a CHD survivor. Again we fell in love and had an immediate connection and I had to know everything. Funny how when your world is rocked by something it is suddenly the greatest and most important cause in all of the world. Looking at his blog I realized he was deeply submerged in the CHD world here in SLC and many families have been following his blog and in turn him, their's. Well I have fallen head over heels into the CHD world and seem to be obsessed with these families and their children and their fights....and their blogs.

I have always heard that you seem to find things just as you need them. Well I have discovered this little CHD blogging world and have gained testimony, faith, hope, "friends", love, compassion, empathy and the list goes on and on. Most of these blogs were started years ago when their children were first diagnosed with CHD and many of these beautiful children have returned to heaven and are now the Angel's of the CHD world (my BIGGEST fear). I find myself getting so involved with these amazing stories, that I am sitting at the computer bauling and hoping for so much more time with Samantha. Like I said I hope this is just an incredible blessing with no strings attached but I keep worrying that I have stumbled upon these blogs because I will need them...OK I also worry a lot too!! Anyway this has been weighing heavy on my mind and I just wanted to get it off my chest, so to speak.

Samantha is doing great and I have no reason to worry but I guess that is what a Mom does. Well, because she is doing so wonderful is why I was thrilled to be attending Paul Cardall's Concert and Celebrating Life...his, Samantha's, mine, ours...life in general. Mine has been pretty amazing lately and I think I have been taking it for granted.

This concert was amazing and inspirational. I could have sat there enveloped in a feeling of peace forever. Anyone that has not discovered Paul should really take a listen, he is WONDERFUL. At the concert "we" were introduced to Mindy Gledhill, a friend of Paul's and a new favorite of mine.

~Mindy Gledhill

We were also reintroduced to an old favorite, Peter Breinholt. I found some great pictures and wanted to capture our wonderful night. Also one of the funnest parts of the concert was when Peter B. asked us to be old school with new school technology...we all opened our cell phones and made beautiful twinkling lights.I also just found out that Paul Cardall want's to make this a yearly event and has dedicated himself to doing another Life Celebration in 2011...I can't wait. I am sure we have a new family tradition and a wonderful way to celebrate Valentines, CHD Awareness week and LIFE...OUR LIFE!!

P.S. If you want to take a listen to either Paul or Mindy I have added some of their music to my play list down below...take a listen and enjoy. I know I do!

What has my life become?

2010-02-17T12:06:00.000-08:00

Recently I found myself submerged once again in the blogging world. Reading someone's blog can be like finding a window into someone's most personal and intimate feelings. I have been visiting blogs from those that have experienced some amazing things and ultimately endured or are enduring the most life changing events one could ever expect to be faced with.

Today I have to share what I can no longer pretend is not true... all the crazy things I never thought I was really thankful for but when faced with the the thought of not having them in my life...makes me want to cry. So today I am thankful for:
The sounds of screaming, fighting, crying and giggling children
Mess after mess that I get to clean up
Mounds of dishes and laundry that haunt me daily
Cookie and cracker crumbs that I find out of my kitchen
Mopping up the floor and walls and ceiling after my children bathe
Peanut butter and jelly finger prints on my cabinets, wall and banisters
Lost sippy cups and pacifiers
Diapers, formula and wipes
Milk and toaster waffles
Endless requests for Bunny Milk or Cocoa Milk (Nesquik Mix)
Constantly repacking the enormous diaper bag
Having people to fight with about the things that are really not important
Having someone to hold during the quiet times
Little ones that love that I sing to them
Having someone who is always up for a dance
Reading the same books over and over
Watching the same movies and cartoons over and over again
Doctor offices and co-pays
Mounds of medical bills piling up
My house overflowing with toys
The oxygen tank in my living room
Not finding time to dust, vacuum and mop daily
Hearing my name "Mom", "mama" and "MOMMY" over and over again
Trying to find a baby sitter
Having messes in the mini-van
Having a reason to have a mini van
Trying to convince my five year old
Chasing after my two year old and
Catering to my six month old
...Well I think you get the idea. The alternative to this crazy life of mine is nothing I would ever wish for...I will find goodness in something everyday no matter what! Thank you to all the parents out there that have opened my eyes to ALL of my blessings right in front of my eyes and under my foot!!

May you see that God has blessed you too.

CHD Awareness Week

2010-02-12T19:25:00.000-08:00

This week is a wonderful reminder of how far Samantha has come from June 8, 2004 when we welcomed her into our world and she changed our life for eternity. It has been almost two years since we faced the heart breaking decision to have her endure a surgery of "cutting balloons" to try and widen her tiny and narrow pulmonary arteries leading from her heart into her lungs.

Our ward fasted and prayed with us as we faced our biggest fear of loosing Samantha and having our family crumble. Amazingly enough, yet secretly... almost expected (I say that tongue in cheek) with the incredible powers of fasting testimonies I have heard, Doctors found no further narrowings that were significant enough to risk surgery and ultimately Samantha's life. Her cardiologist and surgical team found her stable to endure the needed valve change which of course meant open heart surgery. This would be Samantha's fourth but first that was not reconstructive in nature. Samatha came through with flying colors and was released and home in five days.

The last two years have been wonderful...almost no medical worries as far as Samantha's condition. This is a wonderful reflection period to look back at God's hand in our lives, blessing us with faith in the face of fear and supplying love to sustain us. In celebration of Samantha's life and this week of awareness here are a few tidbits I have found along the way from other heart parents.

My child reached for me today,
and I wanted you to know...
that as I spend each day with her,
and get to watch her grow,
as she cuddles close beside me,
wraps her fingers in my hair,
I know she would not be here now,
had it not been for your care.
Your hands rebuilt the tiny heart,
that beats within her chest.
Had others never seen her scar,
they never would have guessed,
that a man could take but half a heart,
and help a child to live,
we thank God for you everyday,
and all the joy you give.
This journey is uncertain,
but, with hope we may succeed,
we would not tread this path at all,
had it not been for your lead,
Samantha is a miracle,
(She's cute and sweet and smart)
We thank you for our precious one,
with such a special heart.

~Stephanie Husted
Originally posted on her blog that she wrote for her son.
(I made changes for Samantha)

Behind Your Scar...

Sometimes I have those "moments",
When I think...life's just not fair,
Then I think of all you've been through,
And I see the scar you bear.
A faded line right down your chest,
Made with such careful precision,
We wanted you to have a chance,
Could there be any other decision?
And so I trace that "perfect" scar,
Made with the utmost care,
And I realize there is purpose,
Behind this scar you wear.
What have you taught us?
You've taught us how to face a storm,
(Some things are just out of our hands)
Life has no handy guidebook,
(Things don't always go as you've planned)
People come into our lives,
(Sometimes it is just for a season)
But God brings them into our lives,
(And I know that He must have a reason)
Normal, uneventful days,
(The kind that we always hoped for)
These are the days I say, "Wow God",
We just never know what lies in store.
If I can place a feeding tube,
Without even getting distraught,
Perhaps, maybe, I might be...
Much stronger than I thought.
It's okay to be afraid,
And it's alright to cry,
It's okay to feel lost sometimes,
It's even okay to ask...why?
You face life with courage,
(Knowing God set you apart)
Every little thing you do,
You do with all of your heart.
No crystal ball exists for us,
(To see us through each strife)
We only have one wish for you...
An ordinary life.
You've taught us to love one another,
(Helping each other to cope)
You've taught us compassion for others,
You've taught us to never lose hope.
You already have quite a story,
Which you can someday share,
And I can see it's beauty,
Behind that scar you wear.

~Stephanie Husted

How? Why?

How? Why?
People keep looking and asking
“How do you do it?”
“How do you keep living like this?”
I always say “One day at a time”
“I’m on a mission from God…
I will complete it; I have this heart for a reason.”
People may or may not understand
But I don’t need them too
God makes no mistakes.

I know why I was given this heart
To teach people how to live
To live like every day was my last
To love and to be loved
To help spread the awareness
To show people how to care
To give everything I’ve got
To let everyone know that every day is blessed
Tomorrow is not promised
My heart may be half and very mended
But I don’t regret anything
I’m blessed, I’m grateful, I’m happy
So smile, laugh, love, give, and live
If I can do it, if every single heart kid can do it
So can you!

Mended hearts are here on earth to show us
Show us life is to never be taken for granted
Look at their happiness and smiles
They live to the fullest through every trial
On a mission they are from God
No matter the time they have here
They fulfill their duties with all their heart
They are miracles that bless us
Listen to their heart it tells a story
And learn from the their journey
Never lose Hope, Love, and Faith
I’m a mended heart on a mission
How do I do it?
I just keep living, this is my life.

Poem By: Lauren (22yr. old CHD Survivor)

Borrowed from yet another heart mother, courtesy of Shannon Mason:

Somehow I visualize God hovering over the Earth selecting his instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As He observes, He instructs His angels to make notes in a giant ledger.

"This one gets a daughter. The Patron saint will be Cecelia."
"This one gets twins. The Patron saint will be Matthew."
"This one gets a son. The Patron saint…give her Gerard. He is used to profanity"

Finally He passes a name to an angel and smiles, "Give her a disabled child." The angel is curious, "Why this one God? She's so happy."

"Exactly," smiles God. "Could I give a disabled child to a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."

"But has she patience?" asks the angel.

"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wears off, she'll handle it. I watched her today; she has that feeling of self and independence that is so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has her own world. She has to make her live in her world and that's not going to be easy."

"But Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."

God smiles, "No matter, I can fix that. This one is perfect - she has just enough selfishness."

The angel gasps - "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?"

God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she'll never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a 'spoken word'. She will never consider any 'step' ordinary. When her child says "Momma" for the first time, she will be present at a miracle and will know it! I will permit her to see clearly the things I see...ignorance, cruelty, and prejudice...and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life, because she is doing my work as surely as if she is here by my side."

"And what about her Patron saint?" Asks the angel, his pen poised in mid air.

God smiles, "A mirror will suffice."

Our trials have been many but Our blessings have been GREAT!

2010-02-04T10:12:00.000-08:00

This is a poem that many heart moms and dads receive while sitting in the hospital awaiting the future of their little ones battling with a heart defect. Samantha's heart condition is major but when compared to other little angels her fight has been secure and filled with many blessings. I found this on a blog from a heart mom that we shared time with during Samantha's last surgery almost two years ago in April of 2008.

It's a beautiful day up in heaven. Jesus is rounding up his tiniest angels, to go live on earth, and be born. One of the sweetest angels says to Jesus "I don't want to leave, I like it here, and I will miss you". He reassures the scared little angel that everything will be okay, and that she is just going for a visit. She is still not swayed on this idea. So Jesus kneels down, and says, "How about if you leave half of your heart here with me and take the other half with you, will that be okay?" The angel smiles and says, "I guess that will work". But the little angel is still a little scared. She asks,"Will I be okay with only half of my heart?" Jesus replies,"Of course you will, I have other angels there that will help out, and you will be fine." Then Jesus gives the angel more details about his plan. He says "When you are born, your mommy will be scared, so you have to be strong, and when you feel weak just remember that I have the other half of your heart". "Enjoy your time with your family, play and laugh everyday." "And when its time to come back to heaven, I will make your heart whole again. Always remember that you are not broken, just torn between two loves."

I have never had the courage to follow Gracie's blog...I left the hospital with a prayer in my heart for this baby girl and told myself she would be ok- she just had to be. I have just found out that Gracie died last year in March 2009...right before her first birthday following a heart transplant. I only knew of this family for three days while Samantha was in the PICU but I had wonderful conversations and shared my experiences with them...hoping to give them hope too. I overheard and witnessed blessings, faith and love that were indescribable and I often have thought about this family and their little Gracie. Samantha's procedures have always went picture perfect with tiny little bumps but nothing like what this family has endured. Ryan and I learned very quickly that when you want to feel great about your crappy situation go sit in the PICU and start talking to those people there. I always find myself grateful for my situation and praying for those that are currently learning a different lesson and following a different path that their Heavenly Father has made for them.

I have been reading her blog and have been crying almost nonstop for hours now. Looking at their pictures and words I have many memories flooding over me with Sam and the heartache we went through with her and the scary times that I know we will still have to face. When I learned of her condition minutes after her birth, I turned right to my Heavenly Father...even though I had probably not said a prayer since I was a young girl. It is amazing the lessons you learn during your trials. I pray that now that I am a mother of three beautiful girls...the lessons I have learned and the gospel that has found me once again (from childhood roots and a wonderful friend, my Missionary, Simon) will remain strong in my heart, mind and actions.

I read this on another blog and it rang true for me..."Sometimes I feel like I loose faith...not in our Heavenly Father but in myself" to be able to endure to the end and participate in his plan for my family and my most precious girls.

Reverse Psychology

2009-10-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

I wish reverse psychology would work on my girls to keep them little. I am realizing how fast they are growing up and quickly changing. I have a feeling it is not going to work though. "Don't you stay cute and little forever...don't you do it".

Reverse psychology works wonders with my girls...at least Samantha and Layla. If I want my girls to do something, for example eat their food or clean up their rooms. I just smile a big grin and say, "Don't you eat that." or " I better not come back in here and see you cleaning up your toys because I want to throw them away" or "take that yummy food out of your mouth right this instant". It works like a charm. They think it is hilarious and we accomplish the intended goal with smiles and laughter. Don't get me wrong there are still plenty of times that I have to be the heavy and get mad about things too, but that is part of being a mom. This reverse psychology trick works so well my parents and sister use it with them all the time too. It is really funny to see adults do this and have a two year old and five year old be excited to "break the rules".

Just a few months ago Layla was just starting to talk well, so that you could understand some of what she was saying. She had cute words like fluffy and potty and mama. Now she actually talks all day long. She is speaking in sentences, uses people's real names and describes things she wants. It is amazing that in less than three months she has made this type of transformation with language.

She turned two on September 12 and we had a fun party for her with a big blow up bounce house and all her cousins and friends from nursery. She loved having everyone sing her happy birthday and she was sure to put her fingers in the icing of her cake as soon as she got close to it. She loves ducks and calls them quack, quacks (but it is her actually sounding like a duck...not saying quack). He had a bakery airbrush a water scene onto a cake and then we used some little ducks we had for her cake...she adored it.

She is loving to choose her clothes and find things that match. This morning she found some purple socks and asked me what color they were. I told her they were purple. She then repeated it and started looking through her wardrobe for other purple items that would match her socks. Sometimes I find myself just sitting back in amazement of how much she is doing and changing daily!!

At any given time of the day Layla can be found doing one of the following: asking to be read to or "reading" a book by herself, playing with her sisters or dancing and singing whether there is music on or not. If there is music on...watch out she loves to rock out and be crazy. I just adore this age. I wish I could freeze time with her for awhile.

As our family grows...

2009-08-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

I have been facebooking and keep forgetting to come in here and update for my blogging friends. All of you know that I had Madilyn Lorretta on August 1, 2009 at 4:55 A.M. She was 21 inches and 7lbs 11oz. She was delivered via C section which I fought against tooth and nail. After 12+ hours of being at a 3 with no change we decided to "get in there" and see what was going on. Mady had been transverse (sideways) and was flipped three times into position and my doctor decided to break my water to keep her in place (this same thing happened during Layla's delivery). During the C section it was discovered that Mady's umbilical cord was wrapped twice around her neck, preventing her from coming down further.

It has been a month since Mady joined our family and she is doing well and has slept through the night a few times already. Samantha and Layla adore and love on her constantly. I was afraid Layla might be jealous but so far she has been adjusting wonderfully to being a big sister. My recovery is going well...not 100% yet but every day/week has significant improvemment. I am still not "allowed" to lift much or vaccum/mop but I have found ways to get things accomplished by myself and Ryan fills in when he is home. I can't wait until I can vaccum though...I am kind of a vaccum freak...with three dogs and three kids...crumbs and dirt happen pretty quickly and need to be "kept in check".

Samantha started kindergarten this week and is loving it. When Samantha was born I quickly realized that she may never live long enough to do alot of things, given her heart complications. Going to school is one of those things that popped into my head, and I prayed that we may have the chance to have her here with us and be a family. Five years later, here we are and she is strong and beautiful and she lives life to the fullest every day. I don't know if Samantha will ever understand how she has blessed our family but I hope she knows how much we love her and how proud of her we are.

Speaking of living life to the fullest, Samantha just earned her first set of stitches. She cut her leg on her friends trailor while playing and had to have four stitches. When I went to pick her up to take her to Insta Care, she was begging me to stay and play longer...funny girl. Let me just prelude with Samantha hates shots, due to years of "IV torture". When we took her to Insta Care they cleaned her up and applied the numbing cream so they could give her the numbing shot. When they came in with the needle...she freaked and opted to have the stitches with just the local cream. She is tougher than she looks! She thinks her stitches are pretty cool but she can't get them wet for ten days- until they come out...so no more water activities for a little while. She is a little bummed about that.

Layla will be two on September 12 and I need to start planning a birthday party. She loves the bounce houses and bubbles so I am going to try to incorporate both...we will see what happens. Since Layla's eardrum burst a few months back her speaking and vocabulary has really taken off. She talks all day long and can actually communicate and be understood now. She shouts to the dogs to be quiet and says their names to call them over to her or tattle on them.

I love this age when babies turn into little people and develop and share their unique little personalities with their world. She follows Sam around all day wanting to do what ever she is doing. She decided right before Mady was born that she would like to start potty training...not the best time but we had the potty and pull ups so we have been trying to do that with her (hit and miss on our parts) but she loves her potty. Some of the phrases and words she says are so cute with her adorable voice and personality. I love the way she says "Mady" right now.

Well I could go on and on about my beautiful girls and how each on is such a blessing but I will end now and try to keep up better so each entry does not take an hour to read.

Where have all the Filby's gone?

2009-06-30T09:22:00.000-07:00

February, really that was the last time I posted anything for our family. Well I have been super busy raising and playing with two amazing little girls and growing another one that is now due to be out in about four weeks. I have been exhausted enough I rarely find my way to the computer, especially when it in in the basement and my girls are upstairs.
Well it is the last day of June and summer is here. Samantha finished up preschool in May and had the cutest graduation ceremony at Kearns Library. She turned five on June 8th and had a fun little water party that got rained out but the kids didn't seem to mind. She has now started all of her fun summer activities like Lagoon, Hogle Zoo, the Kearns Pool and the newest addition is swimming lessons. After just four lessons she is swimming around with help like a little fish. She wouldn't put her face in the water to begin with but now sh e has her own goggles and she won't keep it out of the water. She has now figured out how to blow bubbles out her nose to keep the water out. Good job kiddo!
Layla is following along right after Sam wanting to do it all! She will do anything her big sis will do including put her face in the water and ride all the rides she is allowed to get on at Lagoon. She recently had a really bad ear infection...again...but that doesn't seem to hold her back any. This one was actually so bad her eardrum burst and I had no ides anything had been wrong until blood and puss oozed from her ear one day following a bath. That was exciting...yuck!
I am also officially nine months pregnant with our third little girl which we have decided to name Madilyn Lorretta, whom we will and already do call Mady for short. Both girls are excited and we have recently updated the little girls room with a big girl bed for Layla, introduced Layla to the big girl potty and purchased a double stroller so our events can go one this summer with out fail even when the girls need to "take a break for just a minute" or as Layla says as she holds up one finger "one minute mama".
My last doctors appointment verified what I had thought, that Mady is transverse (sideways) and will need to be flipped before delivery to avoid a c-section. Those who remember Layla's delivery will also remember Layla was flipped four times before my doctor broke my water and forced her into the world. It looks as though we may be going down this path again with Mady, I guess we will see what she decides to do. Either way I am excited and the count down is on!

Love is in the air

2009-02-14T11:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day!
This morning I am feeling overwhelmed with love. We had a family emergency yesterday with the pregnancy and I was able to call upon family and friends without any hesitation to help with the girls. I feel so blessed to have these kinds of people in my life and know that I can trust them and count on them no matter what.
Thanks Jenn and Deb for making my girls feel welcome at your homes all day, yesterday. Samantha spent the day with her friend Maryn making cookies. She is so proud of what she did and the cookies she decorated. It was such a relief to be able to take care of things and know that both my girls were being cared for and loved, when I could not be with them.
Today is Valentines Day and I want to tell everyone how much I love them. I have had numerous phone calls to check up on us and I am so grateful to be able to say that all is well and our Family is enjoying a snowy day together.
The spirit in our home today is very loving and almost overwhelming. Although yesterday was scary, this has truly been a bonding experience for our family and especially for Samantha with the new baby, who by the way, she is certain is a boy. We have a few more weeks before we find out. I truly have the best husband, children, friends and family anyone could ask for.
Hugs and smooches to all my sweeties!!

Pay it Forward

2009-02-04T19:33:00.000-08:00

I'm paying it forward from my friend, Deb's post. This sounds like tons of fun and it will be interesting to see who checks my blog often :)Here's the rules:
1.Be one of the first THREE bloggers to leave a comment on this post, which then entitles you to a handmade item from me - something crafty or yummy, who knows?!
2. Winners must post this challenge on your blog, meaning that you will Pay It Forward, creating a handmade gift -anything!- for the first THREE bloggers who leave a comment on YOUR post about this giveaway!
3. The gift that you send to your 3 Friends can be from any price range and you have 365 days to make/ship your item. This means you should be willing to maintain your blog at least until you receive your gift and have shipped your gifts. And, remember: It’s the Spirit and the Thought That Count!
4. When you receive your gift, please feel free to blog about it, sharing appropriate Linky Love! If you are not one of the Top Three Commenters on this post, you can still play along. Go ahead and start your own Pay It Forward chain, and encourage your blogging friends to do the same!SO, REMEMBER...Pay it forward!

Yeah I AM a slacker...wanna make something of it??

2009-01-31T23:17:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I have just realized that it has been two months since I have posted anything. So much for keeping up on this for my family. However in my defense, I found out I was pregnant the end of November and I have pretty much been sick and tired...literally...ever since. I think I am starting to turn around, but please don't say it out loud and if you read this knock on wood for me. Oddly enough I am superstitious about things like that. Ladders and black cats - nothing. Dooming my future by saying something and not knocking on wood, very much so!!

Anyway I have had many thoughts about things and cute events with the girls that I had wanted to post but I don't have the time right now to do so. Hopefully I will get back on track with this and I can keep you posted about the girls and the new adventures in my pregnancy.

We should be finding out the sex of the baby the end of March. I am just starting my 13th week or as I like to call it the fourth month of pregnancy, when normal "mommies-to-be" stop being sick and start looking like they are growing a baby and not just bloated. Well keep your fingers crossed, another superstition I like to go along with. A funny little tid-bit, while I lay around on the couch, Sam likes to ask what I am doing. When I answer, "I am growing a baby", she frowns, rolls her eyes and says, "Mom growing this baby is taking forever and it makes you boring."

Also in my defense, I did leave the house for a few hours today to take engagement/announcement pictures for my sister Jennifer and her fiance Jeff, which are getting married in May. I am really excited for them, the pictures turned out really cute. After twelve years they have really figured out how to look like they love each other in a photograph, or maybe it was just the awesome photographer...ha,ha! I did have fun though and was happy to be able to spend the day with them. Their wedding is going to be beautiful!! (Just like their flower girls and bridesmaid.)

Some of my favorite things

2008-11-28T22:10:00.000-08:00

Tuesday I went to see Twilight for the second time with my sister and some ladies from the ward. I had such a great time. I seen it for the first time opening day, Friday afternoon with Ryan and some other great friends, especially Becki by beloved Twilight freak- thanks for the t-shirt!!. I am looking forward to seeing it again!! Ryan had not read the books but had received a play by play while Jenn and myself were reading it. He enjoyed the movie so much that we is now reading the books. Ryan and I love the VAMPIRE THING!! Our first date we went to see Bram Stoker's Dracula. I am glad I was able to share this with him. We are both hopeless romantics and vampires need love too. One can not live on blood alone. Sam is begging to see it the next time. When I was reading she would grab on of the other books and snuggle up on the couch and pretend to read and then listen with passion as I told the story to Ryan and her later. Hopefully Santa will bring her mama the soundtrack...which Ryan and I both love!!

Yesterday we spend Thanksgiving with family...only three different stops this year. We had a delicious dinner at my Dad's and were able to spend sometime talking with my Grandparents and listening to them tell stories of when their children were growing up. I love listening to them. They are so sweet and you can tell they still really love another. I hope Ryan and I are that wonderful together when we are that age after 50+ years of marriage.

Well it has finally happened. Most people that know us have heard all about Layla refusing to walk and my growing frustration with the foster dogs we have been lending our home to. Our family has sheltered 6 dogs: Mustang, Chief (Sam's favorite)Sasha, Foxy (my favorite), Max (we were able to name him) & Benny and helped them find wonderful homes. I finally had to tell Ryan we could not do it any more with all the mud being tracked in from the backyard, Layla was eating mud pies every morning , afternoon and evening and I was spending all day long cleaning up after the dogs. I have yet to tell Sam that we are not getting another foster dog anytime soon. She is so passionate about these dogs and finding them a family to love. She is certainly her Dad's soft hearted daughter. If it were up to them we would live on a farm with every kind of dog, a few cats, horses and whatever else they could squeeze into the barn.

My biggest joy is that within the last day or two Layla has been working to master the art of WALKING!! She is zipping around the house and carrying her baby and purse, already. She is adorable, really too cute for words. I think she has finally realized that she will need to walk to keep up with Sam. Layla and Sam are so cute together, they laugh constantly together over nothing sometimes. When they get laughing Ryan and I just look at each other and laugh too, which makes them laugh even harder.

In the last few months Ryan has been working hard to get the yard improvements done before the snow falls. Ryan and our friend Simon has now finished the sprinkling system, the new fence is done with the new dog run too. The RV and extended patio has been poured and we just got the patio covered on Tuesday. The girls think it is an extension of the family room. They want to be out there every moment. I am hoping all these improvements will help us to use our back yard more all year long, especially Spring thru Fall. The yard looks really good and I am excited to get started planting in the spring...I hope Simon will help me pick out some fabulous shrubbery, etc. He is a master Gardner and I have been sharing my hopes for my yard since the day we bought the house and now it is time to make my dream a reality and I am excited!!!

High School Tag - Michelle

2008-11-13T22:18:00.000-08:00

1. DID YOU DATE SOMEONE FROM YOUR SCHOOL? Yeah a handsome football player whom also happened to be a Track and Field star- I should really look him up, I bet he married a really great girl : )
2.WHAT KIND OF CAR DID YOU DRIVE? I had to share my Dads truck until I graduated so that I wouldn't be tempted to skip school.
3. DID YOU PASS YOUR DRIVER'S LICENSE TEST YOUR FIRST TRY? Certainly, I don't have time to fool around
4. WERE YOU A PARTY ANIMAL? I wouldn't say party animal but certainly not a by-the-book "good girl"
5. WERE YOU CONSIDERED A FLIRT? Of course what else would I be doing in school all day - studying? Please I am a multi-tasker. I don't think I ever out grew in either
6. WERE YOU IN BAND, ORCHESTRA, OR CHOIR? Absolutely Not, there is nothing musical about me.
7. WERE YOU A NERD? I earned good grades, but certainly not a nerd by any means.
8. WERE YOU ON ANY VARSITY TEAMS? Nope I just dated the Varsity team member(s)
9. DID YOU EVER GET SUSPENDED/EXPELLED? Never - my parents would have killed me
10. CAN YOU STILL SING THE FIGHT SONG? I never sang the fight song when I was there. Plus me singing anything has actually been banned in some places among this valley.
11. WHO WERE YOUR FAVORITE TEACHERS? Mr. Smith (Human Bio) Sadly enough I don't really remember any other teachers.
12. WHERE DID YOU SIT FOR LUNCH? With my friends either in the commons or we would walk down the convenience store and then sit outside
13. WHAT IS YOUR SCHOOL'S FULL NAME? Hunter High School
14. WHAT IS YOUR SCHOOL'S MASCOT AND COLORS? Wolverine, Navy blue and Silver
15. DID YOU GO TO HOMECOMING AND WITH WHO? My husband...of course he was not back then
16. IF YOU COULD GO BACK AND DO IT AGAIN WOULD YOU? Never...well maybe if I were making money for doing it and I was able to keep my knowledge that I have now.
17. WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER MOST ABOUT GRADUATION? Ordering and sending all my announcements - totally worth it when the Congratulatory checks starting coming in. Cha-Ching!!
18. WHERE DID YOU GO SENIOR SKIP DAY? That was pretty much every day after lunch.
19. WERE YOU IN ANY CLUBS? Nothing that had anything to do with school
20. HAVE YOU GAINED SOME WEIGHT SINCE THEN? Oh no I have always had these saddle bags, stretch marks and three chins since grade school. Seriously do you want to see me cry...who thought this was a good question??
21. WHO WAS YOUR PROM DATE? My best friend...again MY ADORABLE HUSBAND
22. ARE YOU PLANNING ON GOING TO YOUR 10 YEAR REUNION? Not unless they have made it into a movie to replay fourteen years later (1994). No, I was busy having my first baby and again they were not handing out monetary compensation to attend...waste of time in my opinion. I married the only person I cared to keep in touch with.
23. DID YOU HAVE A JOB IN HIGH SCHOOL? I worked the ticket and concession stand at a small theatre in Kearns and was also a Hostess at Dine' Cafe ...best food ever!! I miss that place. I also worked the counter and drive thru window at McDonalds for a little while with Ryan when we were seniors. Oh and I did make some money doing small modeling jobs, like window and runway shows for department stores here locally...I almost forgot about that. I still will walk my hallway like I own it...because I DO!

High School Tag - Ryan

2008-11-13T13:18:00.000-08:00

Since Michelle has not posted her response to her being tagged I thought I would do mine in the meantime.... I'm sure Michelle's post will come soon.

1. DID YOU DATE SOMEONE FROM YOUR SCHOOL? Yeah, one, I think we all know who she is.
2.WHAT KIND OF CAR DID YOU DRIVE? 1974 Camero .
3. DID YOU PASS YOUR DRIVER'S LICENSE TEST YOUR FIRST TRY? Of course, I had been driving tractors on my family's farm for years at that point.
4. WERE YOU A PARTY ANIMAL? Yes a turtle.
5. WERE YOU CONSIDERED A FLIRT? If I was I was really, really bad at it.
6. WERE YOU IN BAND, ORCHESTRA, OR CHOIR? Not in high school.
7. WERE YOU A NERD? If anyone called me a nerd they got their noses punched in...Got it? Oh, sorry, I guess I'm still a little defensive.
8. WERE YOU ON ANY VARSITY TEAMS? Yep, Football and Track (held the school record in shot put for 4 years).
9. DID YOU EVER GET SUSPENDED/EXPELLED? No
10. CAN YOU STILL SING THE FIGHT SONG? Uh...no only nerds know the fight song...see answer to number 7.
11. WHO WERE YOUR FAVORITE TEACHERS? Mr. Shumway, Mr. Smith, Coach Peck to name a few...High school was pretty good to me in that regard.
12. WHERE DID YOU SIT FOR LUNCH? I was too cool for lunch...jk I think in the commons.
13. WHAT IS YOUR SCHOOL'S FULL NAME? Hunter High School.
14. WHAT IS YOUR SCHOOL'S MASCOT AND COLORS? Wolverine, Navy blue and Silver.
15. DID YOU GO TO HOMECOMING AND WITH WHO? Yes, with Michelle Mann.
16. IF YOU COULD GO BACK AND DO IT AGAIN WOULD YOU? If I could keep the knowledge I have gained over the years, so I could become even smarter and get that dream job at NASA. Oh and I loved playing football.
17. WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER MOST ABOUT GRADUATION? That is was at the U of U and we were all in caps and gowns...I'll never wear a dress again...ok, maybe a few more times, but thats it.
18. WHERE DID YOU GO SENIOR SKIP DAY? I skipped so many times at the end I can't remember which day was designated at skip day.
19. WERE YOU IN ANY CLUBS? Yeah, Fight club, but I can't talk about it.
20. HAVE YOU GAINED SOME WEIGHT SINCE THEN? Do you think im fat? I only gained about 40 lbs.
21. WHO WAS YOUR PROM DATE? Michelle Mann.
22. ARE YOU PLANNING ON GOING TO YOUR 10 YEAR REUNION? Sweet, sweet blog...I love you cause you think im so young.
23. DID YOU HAVE A JOB IN HIGH SCHOOL? I worked at McDonalds for a few years and unloaded trucks on a dock at night.

"Win/ Win" Situation

2008-11-11T10:49:00.000-08:00

Today I attended a meeting at the church headquarters talking about how we as architects and contractors can help each other so that we can be proud of the final product we produce, or in other words how to create a "win/win" situation.
So as I got back to my office I naturally started thinking about all the things I could do to help improve this situation. Apparently I keep my wife in my thoughts as I found myself thinking about "win/win" situations in our home. I could take the obvious choices like helping with the dishes or tackling the dirty laundry or even getting the Halloween decorations taken down and put away. But as you may or may not know about me, when I think of something that needs to be done it needs to get done right away or it may get forgotten about. So, Since I am stuck in the office, I was thinking to myself, what can I do for my wife that she would appreciate. Well, here it is...It's this blog (I hope she appreciates it). I know, this is so exciting, I bet I get a super cool gift for Christmas now!! To the side of this entry I have added a countdown to remind Michelle of her girls night out. Michelle, at a record pace finished all four novels and already has her tickets for the premier. If you scroll down to the bottom of the page I have added a video bar that has the Twilight movie trailers in it, this should keep her entertained until opening night. I guess you could call this is her win. My win is the video clip right below hers. Its one of my favorite songs from the soundtrack, the song is Decode by Paramore. Check them out. Oh, and by the way don't forget to mute the music on the page before starting the clips, that's one sure way to induce a Tylenol moment!!

Our children are sponges or at least Sponge Bobs

2008-11-06T18:51:00.000-08:00

Layla is still attempting to master the art of walking. She is so fast on all fours that she has not fully realized the world of walking and all it has to offer.
As I sit here, Layla is trying to blog by my side and Sam is telling her this activity is not for babies as Layla has a handful of Sam's hair and continues to shout and pound on the computer. She will not be limited by those around her... she is stubborn and determined, she will limit herself thank you very much!!
Samantha is loving preschool. She is learning so much and has the alphabet "pretty much done", her words not mine. We practice her letters and spelling while bathing with her foam letters that stick to the side of the tub. I am just pleased that she knows that the letter Q has a name and sound and should not be referred to as "the blue letter that is a circle with a small line through it and is evil." Again her words not mine.
These beautiful girls of mine are amazing and I am so blessed to be able to spend my days with them and see all that they are learning and becoming. Sometimes I am amazed how smart they seem to be and how quickly they learn new things...and other times I come to the realization that we may be watching too much Sponge Bob in our home, especially when Sam is making Crabby Patties out of Playdoh and calling myself and Layla "barnacle heads."

2008-11-04T09:50:00.000-08:00

Well we finally voted! I had tried to do the early vote on Thursday but the line was out and down the side of the building. I went this morning to vote and there was only 15 people ahead of me. I hardly had time to read my book. :( So I voted and since the line was so short I went back to the house and had Michelle go and vote because you know the lines are just going to get longer and longer this evening.

All at the Filby house have had some sort of stomach bug, except for Sam, which is weird cause she is the one that catches everything. Layla has been hit the hardest and has been sick off and on for a long time know. We just went to the doctors to find out what is going on and it was decided to get some blood work. This is the first time Layla has had to give blood since being released from the hospital when she was born. Layla did awesome during the blood draw. She cried a bit but didn't cry for long and was friends again with the nurses a few minutes later, especially when she was given a sucker.

Layla has started to do another thing that is really cute. She looks at you from the corner of her eye with a little grin on her face. Even though she has been sick she still hams it up all the time. I remember when Sam use to do her "crazy eyes" at us, it would make us laugh every time. I love being a dad. I just wish I was around more to watch them grow.

2008-10-30T08:46:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody, its the inaugural blog...I finally did it! OK, now that I am done patting my own back I can get to the meat of the matter. My intentions and my plan is to do this a few times a week at work if there is time (more time that normal usually lately) or at night if we are lucky enough to get the kids to bed before 11:00. Layla is good about going down at 8:30....Samantha, not so much! She is getting better about that now that she is going to school and is playing more.

So here we go.....

We took the family to Disneyland in May for 5 days to celebrate the last of Samantha's heart surgeries. We all had a blast! I enjoyed it as well as it was my first time visiting the magic kingdom. We were able to ride most of the rides there and we also went to California adventure across the way to ride even more rides and to have breakfast with the princesses.

The girls loved the airplane, Sam more than Layla. Sam was getting so carried away Michelle had to cover her mouth. It was so funny!

Samantha had her 4th open heart surgery in April and recovered nicely and was released 4 days later!! She is incredible! She is averaging 1 a year, but with her new 19mm pig valve she should be good for years to come.

I think everyone knows by now we are still trying to finish our basement. Well almost 1 year later we are still trying . I am determined to get my car in the garage this winter. Its been slow going since there is always something else going on that needs to be dealt with.
Since I wasn't able to get my basement finished I thought that the best thing to do would be to start another project...The YARD!!! We decided to remove the gravel on the side of the house and pour concrete. We got a great deal and it looks great too. We then put up a new fence and then topped the whole yard experience with a new sprinkler system. This part is still underway and I am hoping that this weekend with be the end of it!!

Halloween is tomorrow and I am looking forward to taking the girls out to meet the ghouls in the neighborhood, but first out to the church for the wholesome "Trunk or Treat"!...then the neighborhood....then the Aunt Jenn's work....

Well I think that I have typed enough....need to get back to work