THE SWARTZ FAMILY

Riley's birthday

2011-11-02T12:16:00.003-06:00

I have forgotten if I posted pics of Riley's birthday. So he wanted a pig pinata, which we made together. He wore bunny ears and a cape for super bunny a max and ruby character and dirt cake which he refused to eat. His friend Jon came but didn't get to stay for the dirt cake. Riley had a lot of fun.

This summer

2011-11-02T12:08:00.003-06:00

We took a trip to Spirit Lake area and found a free beach to swim in. Tried to fix the pic of eliza.

Our garden

2011-11-02T11:57:00.002-06:00

My squashes did wonderful, except for the pumpkin. Three grew but only one was ripe before our first frost. We had loads of green tomatoes for fried green tomato sandwiches Hopefully next summer we will have red tomatoes and green peppers.

Happy Halloween

2011-11-02T11:50:00.003-06:00

Riley was a dinosausar/dragon and Eliza was a ladybug/ princess lady bug since she instisted on wearing her princess skirt. Riley lasted about 45min then he was done and EJ ended up riding in our wagon. I made a ghost family tree. Sticks in a white pitcher with tissue ghosts for everyone in the family including the cat.

Lipstick and balloons

2011-07-25T18:40:00.002-06:00

So, Riley and Eliza found my hooker red lipstick. I asked Riley why he decided to smear it all over his face. He said that they were playing dress up and needed makeup. Riley was a a princess and apparently Eliza was a chicken. I took the kids to see "Mr. Twister" a guy who makes balloon animals. Mr. Twister made a sea turtle and donated it to the library so everyone could enjoy it.

July 4

2011-07-12T11:55:00.002-06:00

Riley and I went strawberry picking with the Hayes. I think we picked for an hour. Riley worked the whole time and filled up his little bucket one and a half times. Then I tried to make jam out of the berries. My first attempt was a disaster. Smoke and burt strawberries everywhere. I felt like a big fat failure.

My second try wasn't as bad. I ended up with 3 1/2 jars of moderately runny but eatable strawberry Jam. There's a first time for everything, I guess.

EJ's B-day

2011-07-12T11:25:00.003-06:00

"Everybody must get stoned"...Bob Dylan

2011-06-30T09:54:00.003-06:00

Guess I need to explain this picture. We didn't realize it had been posted on our web album. Yes that is exactly what you think it is, marijuana. I thought it would be a good addition to our food storage.

Kidding. According to our neighbor Jeff, Iowa used to grow marijuana during WWII for the hemp to make rope and clothes. This is what is left over. My neighbor tells me she calls it ditch weed. This plant was growing behind Jeff's garage along the fence that separates our yards. The plants come back every year in spite of being sprayed. I have found four plants growing in our own lawn. One of which I haven't pulled up yet. Guess I should do that.

KITTY

2011-06-27T17:51:00.005-06:00

Sooo...we now own a cat. Here's the story: I was pulling out of Holzhauers when I spotted a wittle kitten who looked rather frail and sick who was sitting in the middle of the road. It apparently had not eaten in a while. It's little meow pulled at my heart strings and I brought it home. After a trip to the vet it became ours. We have named it Emmy. The kid's won't leave it alone but it sure is fun to watch them play with it. It has to be one of the most mellow cats I have ever met before - to the extreme. The vet told us it was about 5 weeks old, and that was on Friday of last week. Never thought we'd own a kitty but it's part of the fam now. meow!

2011-06-17T09:28:00.005-06:00

Our days are full of playing at the park, crying and wearing "petty dress" as EJ would say.

The dress and purple jumper are clothes I wore 30 some odd years ago.

Weird Alert

2011-05-20T08:40:00.005-06:00

I am giving all Swartzs and non Swartzs alike a warning, this blog post is strange. (I don't include my family in this warning because, well, they used to live with me and know what to expect.)

I have given full warning, I don't want to hear any winning. (: Close the page now for your own sanity.

I was in a foul mood yesterday. I had good reason to be Craig woke me up at 2-2:30am and I couldn't get back to sleep. So I was tired, annoyed and my patience was as thin as road kill. However, Craig came home and being such a wonderful husband turned on some weird al music. I haven't laughed so hard for a while. My top favs. Horoscope, Yoda, and One more minute. He is so absurd, so tongue in cheek. I love that he makes fun of everything. He is an equal opportunity offender but he does it in such away that the person or group he is poking fun of can laugh at themselves.

EASTER

2011-04-25T17:51:00.008-06:00

Eliza and I like to do things together. We visited the Easter Bunny at the library in April. We also like to walk around the block.

2011-02-15T09:23:00.002-07:00

Riley wanted to fix his hair like daddy's

The only way to watch TV.
What did you just do to me?

We love our garbage disposal

2011-02-15T09:11:00.002-07:00

I was so happy when Craig installed the garbage disposal. When Craig works on the house he will call out "Picture, Picture!" Or he will say "We need to document this." So I follow him around with the camera snapping pics. I think he fills famous.

the Kids

2011-01-18T09:14:00.004-07:00

Riley will change his clothes four times a day or not have any clothes on at all. I was glad to get him to wear his undies. He worked hard making his pile of plastic bags and was excited to show daddy.

Master plumber

2011-01-18T08:54:00.002-07:00

If I didn't post something about Criag's latest achievement, (sorry Barry) what kind of wife would I be? He redid the plumbing on New Year's Eve. He used Pex pipe and shark bite fittings. Done with in about a day. I just glad there was no flooding followed by a lot of cursing.

EJ Walks

2010-12-09T19:33:00.003-07:00

Thats right ladies and gentlemen Eliza is officially a biped. She has been for a couple of weeks now. She tried to walk on Nov 13 and mastered it by Nov 21.

what have we been up to

2010-11-08T11:05:00.002-07:00

Riley discovered the photo booth on the computer. He will spend hours play with the pictures. He sets up the shot, take the picture and if it is not to his liking he will do it again. He will spend hours taking pics with the old ditigal camera that we gave him also. Its fun to see some of the pics he takes.

Craig and I finally received church callings. Craig is the Young Men's Adviser and I am the 1st counselor in the Primary. Craig has a good bunch of boys to work with. Boys will be boys but they are very polite respectful and willing to help with anything. To beat it all I think they all want to be at church.

I have never worked in the Primary but am excited to do so. The kids don't know what to think of me, however. The Primary Pres. is sweet and soft spoken so when I use my stern Mommy voice the kids look at me with surprise. Like I told Criag, I say please only once. I am so glad I became a mom before I was called to work in the Primary. After Riley and Eliza the primary children don't scare me anymore. Don't get me wrong, the kids are great, just a little rowdy. I am going to try to work on my Mommy voice an make it sound not so mean.

And about the house. Hopefully we will sign the papers on Friday. Debt here we come.

WVa

2010-10-09T10:49:00.007-06:00

Went to West Virginia for my Great Grandma's funeral. The only grandparent I had the pleasure to know. I have come to the conclusion that funerals are long and I don' want one. A grave side service is enough for me. Of course by that time I'll be dead and really won't care. Funerals are for the living anyways. I got to see my family. I hand't seen them in 2yrs. It was so nice to be around them again. Nana would have liked that. I miss them already.

Cousins: Wesley, Hailey, Jacklyn, Riley, Abby, Isabella and Eliza

The Fam: Julian, Nikki, Amber, Nina, John, Della, and John

My not so little, little Brother Julian. (13yrs.)

Trouble comes in threes.

(they are all close in age with Riley being the oldest)

2010-06-07T11:04:00.004-06:00

"Are you joking?"

King of the Mountain!!
Never thought I could love a car so much.
What were we thinking?!
It was worth it!

2010-06-03T11:33:00.004-06:00

We went on a little vacation this past weekend to Pocatello. It was fun to get away from Rexburg, and responsibility. We swam in the Hotel pool, went off roading (yikes) and walked through a small zoo.

Riley really liked the pool. "Shwim" "Shwim" every five minutes. He only liked to play on the stairs, or riding on mine or Craig's back. Oh, and splashing Eliza.

I thought that the driving trails in Pocatello would be like in Rexburg. Nice and flat. Boy was I wrong. Pocatello is at the foot of the Rockies, there is not flat land. I thought this little trip would be ok to do on Sunday not stressful, just a nice car drive. The trails was in Blackrock and Chinese Mountain WMA. (Mountain wasn't enough of a warninig of what was to come.) The farther we went the steeper the trail become until I thought the Isuzu was going to flip backwards or on its side. Of course it didn't but it sure felt like it. There wasn't even trees to block the view of how steep we were just miles and miles of sagebrush. There were screaming, crying and nauseous tummies. That was just me. Everyone else was laughing. Craig laughed because it was fun and he was nervous, Riley laughed because Craig laughed and Eliza laughed because Riley laughed. I was the only one having a anxiety attack. By the time we reach the ridge line, I was physically spent. (I also hiked up one of the hills and record Craig driving. Eliza was on my back in a hiking pack. Riley was smart he didn't want to walk he wanted to ride.) I was beautiful once we reached the top. I have never seen Idaho so green. The rest of the off-roading trip was fun once I relaxed a bit. The trail was steep but part of my fear was having the kids in the car and "what if" something happened. I've heard it said that God protects Fools Children and the United States. We had all three in our corner. Heavenly Father sure knows that I was praying the whole time.

Monday we went t the zoo. Riley wasn't very interested in some of the exhibits because the animals were asleep. He really liked the petting zoo. He loved feeding the goats, donkey's and cows. He spent 20mins there. It was a wonderful vacation. I never want to take a vacation that will take away time I spend with my family or stress me out so bad that it is not fun. Any vacation that is full of distracting noises, flashing lights or pulls a family in too many directions is damaging to the family is in direct contrast to what Heavenly Father wants for my family.

I have no idea how to put a movie from Picasa on the blog. When I learn you'll see what we saw.

2010-05-19T16:52:00.002-06:00

Eliza is 10 months! She has grown twice as fast as Riley did. Not crawling yet but sure is trying. She can now push herself backwards. Riley is now trying to use the potty. He does well getting to the potty with no accidents. The boy has a memory like a steel trap. He listens to the primary CD during the day and at night. He begins to sings the songs from memory in no time. His favs are Follow the Prophet, Listen Listen, I know my Father lives, I Hope They Call Me on a Missison (which he began singing during Sacrament Meeting) and of course Pop Corn Popping. He says his own prayers that I can never understand.

Craig works, comes home and works some more. He is just about finished with his little red scooter. He is receiving a calling soon... We'll see on Sunday what it is. He bought more three more fish and a little frog which I found dead today. Poor little thing. We didn't get to name him. He is now receiving more responsibility at work by helping with closing the store.

I am giving a talk Sunday. It has been three years since my last talk. I was pregnant with Riley and had just moved to Rexburg. It would be poetic if we moved out of Rexburg after my talk. I don't mind staying in Rexburg a little longer. It's a wonderful family community. Where else in the country do are there public meetings on how to combat pornography and people actually attend. Where else gets regular visits from prophets, and apostles. Having the temple 2 mins away isn't bad either. I not saying I want to live here forever, but if the Lord wants us here longer that's alright by me.

I'm babbling aren't I. I have become embarrassed about writing on the blog. That and I have less time to do write now. Riley thinks he must be on the computer all the time. He can turn on the computer, get on the Internet and find PBS kids home page by himself. Then he'll sit and play for an hour. He learned just by watching me. He is one smart kid.

Up date

2010-03-16T13:25:00.003-06:00

Eliza and Riley are doing well part from a cold. Eliza figured out how to clap her hands. She also actually plays with toys, something Riley rarely ever did. He still doesn't play with toys much. Riley loves the ipod and playing PBSkids games on line. He knows how to get on the computer and find his games. He also likes to play the games on lds.org. They both get excited when I turn on signing time. Craig and I are doing well. We went to Jackson Wy, a couple of weeks ago. I thought my head was going to explode as we travel through the Teton pass. That's one impressive mountain. Other then that we haven't did too much but watch movies. We miss family and hope some day we can move closer to both sides. I didn't have much desire to move close to family until Craig's graduation. Seeing both parents reminded me how nice it is to have family close. Some day we'll be close.

2010-03-16T13:16:00.000-06:00

Eight months old!
Modling the new cloth diapers.
Hold Me! Hold Me!

more boxes and also some bucket hats

2010-02-06T13:03:00.000-07:00

boxes

2010-02-06T12:52:00.000-07:00

We have a lot of fun with old diaper boxes. Daddy had the idea to tie a power cord to the box. We then made a two seater so sister can ride with big brother.

Kids

2010-01-19T13:26:00.003-07:00

Eliza is now 6 months and 15lb. She is sitting up by herself and beginning to eat solid foods. Riley likes to help feed her. Sometimes she eats better for him then for me. Right now she prefers veggies to fruit. Riley is about 23lbs. He seems to think he must have his fingers pointing or making signs in pictures.

Christmas in Rexburg

2009-12-27T15:44:00.007-07:00

This Christmas our family stayed in Rexburg, ID. Nina and I decided that, although we didn't get to visit family in Illinois or West Virginia, it was a very relaxing and stress-free holiday. We want to thank all of our family who sent us gifts for the children and for us. It really helped make our Christmas wonderful!!!

Tis the sneezeson

2009-12-05T13:09:00.003-07:00

Craig, Riley and Eliza have all been sick at the same time this past week. So, I haven't has time for blogging. Craig is feeling better now. Riley and Eliza still have runny noses and coughs. Good thing I didn't get sick we would have been in big trouble.
Riley thinks he must be in Eliza's bed when she is in it. Great fun!!!

Run Craig Run

2009-11-02T15:58:00.005-07:00

Sprit week at BYU-I hosted a spirit relay race. Alumni invited to take part.

Before the race.

Craig's leg of the race was sprintting.

After the race. Craig said he thought he was going to pass out but he did it. I was in the car where it was warm. Riley was turing in to a little ice cycle so we didn't get to see Daddy run.

Thanks Maw Maw Della

2009-11-02T15:52:00.004-07:00

Riley's pumpkin

2009-11-02T15:49:00.005-07:00

Riley likes to drawl, paint or color. His pumpkin looks like it ran face first into a rainbow.

Riley smiles

2009-11-02T15:43:00.003-07:00

If Riley can see himself in the camera window, he will smile. If not he has the dear in the head lights look.

Halloween

2009-11-02T15:34:00.002-07:00

The kids were both Gnomes. Riley had a beard but it didn't make it trick or treating. Riley caught on to saying "Trick or Treat" and Thank-you at each house. Eliza slept the whole time.

Religious Freedom - LDS Newsroom

2009-10-18T15:58:00.002-06:00

This is a wonderful and eye opening talk on Religious Freedom by Elder Dallin H. Oaks. I have felt very strongly that I need to teach my children about the constitution. They can't defend what they don't know.

Religious Freedom - LDS Newsroom

Shared via AddThis

First snow

2009-10-06T14:03:00.004-06:00

It snowed yesterday Oct. 5. I am not looking forward to winter in Rexburg. The only thing that saved me from full out crying was Riley's enthusiasm for the snow.

He's saying "It's snowing." or "broken."

Enough about the gargoyals. Now the Kids

2009-10-06T13:47:00.003-06:00

2 months old
This is one way I know she is hungry. She also likes to look at me and lick her lips. It so nice to be viewed as a walking restaurant.

Eliza was blessed on Sept. 27. Sorry to any family we didn't tell ahead of time. Slipped our minds. I get caught up in the day to day events and forget to inform far away family members of special events.

2009-10-06T13:30:00.003-06:00

I Love HALLOWEEN!! My favorite holiday. Skeletons are my favorite decoration. The crouching gargoyal we bought after Riley was born. His name is Godfrey. The thinking gargoyal is Eliza's. Her name is Georgia. I plan on buying a gargoyal after the birth of any future children. Every family needs to have traditions, this is one of ours.

Lava Rock Adventure

2009-08-30T15:41:00.009-06:00

We went to Hell on Saturday...Hell's Half Acre that is. A Lava Trail system.

Hell's Half Acre is made up of three trails, two developed one primitive. We hiked the primitive one. The poles marked the "path", or more like the general direction to follow.

Since there wasn't a designated path, hikers can explore anywhere they want. Craig took full advantage of that. The little white speck is Craig and Riley at the bottom of a large sink hole. Sometimes I just had to look away so as not to totally freak out. It takes a lot to get me to freak out, but watching Craig climb over or in things or jump over cracks made my heart stop.

We didn't expect the large cracks. Needless to say, Riley stayed in the backpack until we found a safer place for him to walk around.

Didn't want this happening to Riley. Super Dad saved Riley's toy.

Riley loved exploring the rocks.

Eliza slept the whole time.

The hike was a lot of fun. The day was overcast and not hot at all. Perfect for hiking.

Riley's Birthday

2009-08-30T15:21:00.005-06:00

We took Riley to the zoo for his birthday(the big 02) on Thursday the 20. We let him walk the whole time which he just liked better then the animals. Riley liked the animals that were more interactive, not the ones in cages. On his birthday we had cake and opened gifts. Over all we had a nice birthday.

He just ate the icing.

Home sweet Gnome

2009-08-10T15:17:00.004-06:00

Craig and I will be in Rexburg for awhile longer. Craig found a job at the Rigby NAPA store. He will be trained as an Assistant Manager. One step up his ladder of success. That is how I see it others may disagree. I am now the proud owner of an Idaho licence, guess it is official.
Yesterday, I looked at Craig and said I am a very boring person. In the next sentence I told him I thought that Eliza was a gnome who lived at the foot of the Riley tree. He laughed and said that I was no where near boring. Apparently, I put strange things on our blog. I have no idea what he is talking about. I think everything I blog about is completely normal. Makes sense to me. My mom tells me all the time that I am strange. That may be why I don't talk in some social situations, I have no idea what the other people are talking about. Below are Eliza's gnome pictures.
Thanks Aunt Julie for the towel. Don't I look cute.

2009-08-10T14:43:00.005-06:00

We have had family visit the past 2 1/2 weeks. It has been so nice to see family in Idaho. I have enjoyed the extra help with the kids. First Mom and Dad Swartz came for Craig's graduation. Glad they came to share that important even with us. My mom and Julian (brother) have been with us for two weeks. They leave tomorrow. I'll miss them.

Pictures

2009-07-12T11:14:00.003-06:00

We lost all the pictures of Eliza in the hospital. Sad I know. These were taken on
July 11.

Eliza Revisited

2009-07-10T11:52:00.004-06:00

After looking at Barry and Margo's blog and my friend Arianna's blog, I feel a little nicer now. I'll give some more info on the birth. It only lasted about 4hrs compared to Riley's 14 1/2 labor. Eliza was in a hurry. I woke up at 2:00am worrying over Michale Jackson's kids (heaven knows why) and feeling rather bad. I wasn't even sure it was contractions until Craig ask if it could be. Sure enough he was right and they began to come very regularly. I told him after and hour that I wanted to push and we rushed to the hospital. The pain was so intense and quick I even asked for an epidural, but I am so thankful for the mid-wife for stopping the nurses so she could check and see how far along I was. The epidural would have been usless. About 15min after that I was pushing away. The pain is not that bad when I push. I can handle that, it is just very hard work. I'll leave out the other gory details.

It was wonderful to have Craig there with me. Poor guy, he was more worn out then I was. He also had to look after Riley. We had babysitters but it was Craig's job to make sure Riley was taken care of. It took Craig the whole weekend to recoupe. Emotional stress tires him out physically. It was touching to see him get so emotional while I was working. It is nice to know that he cares about me so much.

I am doing really well. My body is bouncing back very fast from this labor. Eliza is still strong and eating well. Right now all she does is sleep. Her personality is different from Riley's also. A lot more calm. People ask me who she looks like, I tell them she looks like her brother. Riley loves her. He wants to hold her and kiss her all the time. He pushes her in the swing, and tries to share his sippy cup and food with her. If she is up and not eating he wants to hold and kiss her. I hope this lasts. Most times Riley doesn't mind me holding Eliza as long as he can play with my hair.

I promise more pictures are on the way.

Here is Eliza

2009-07-10T11:35:00.003-06:00

Born on July 3 at 5:54am 8lbs, 12oz 21 inches long and 141/2 in head, 14 in chest. Been rather busy with school and babies. Also, it is hit and miss with our internet service. The blog was not that important. Yes, I know the picture is not rotated.

We have two lap tops. The better pictures of Eliza are on the new laptop which Craig uses at school. These pictures will have to do for now or at least until Craig gets home.

Hello All

2009-06-24T20:38:00.006-06:00

The blogg "Daddy and Riley" is a school project. Daddy is trying to spend more time with Riley. Check it out. Riley likes it. He is always looking for Daddy to rough house with. When I tell him Daddy is at school, I become the target. Last night he used my hair and pregnant belly to try and climb on the back of the couch. My pint size mountaineer. This ended in tears for the both of us. When I finally have this baby and can run around with the little guy, he'll think he has a new Mommy.

Look how Riley has changed!!!

Three weeks and counting

2009-06-16T13:56:00.005-06:00

Craig and I are scared, or as he puts it "in denial" about having a new baby in the house. He said I need to have it right on the Fourth because of the long holiday weekend. I'll work on that. I am already nervous enough about labor but shows like TLC's Baby Story doesn't make it any easier. I never watch the show, but every time I flip pass that channel it is on and the woman is usually in labor. It was even playing in the midwives' office one day. They should be more careful, they just might have their own baby story. I really don't want to watch that for entertainment. What woman in their right mind, who is pregnant, would want to watch that show.

I am looking forward to the way I felt after Riley. Not just the loss of weight, but something even more special. I felt the biggest natural high I had ever felt in my life. I felt strong, even though I was tired, I felt very confident. In reality I couldn't go run a race (I couldn't get out of bed without fainting) but I sure felt like taking anyone on who got in my way. I was also in the mood to talk anyone's ear off who happened in the room. I actually felt kind of silly talking so much.

Riley likes to swing Simba or Waffles (the cow). He'll probably like to swing his sister too.

Real quick

2009-05-19T08:10:00.005-06:00

Two more months until Craig graduates, and only about one month until little Eliza arrives. Riley is taller I can actually see his head over the kitchen table. He also was getting about four teeth at the same time recently. He handles the pain very well. One more thing, Craig had the opportunity to sing in the choir in the last CES fireside. Look up the broadcast on lds.org (May 3 Elder Bednar) to see him. He was so pumped afterwards, that I thought I would have to tie a string to his big toe in order to keep him from floating away.

My belly is getting bigger not my head. Y'all don't need to see it.

Riley had a run in with Great Grandpa's stool.

Easter!!!

It is ok to starve the child but not the fish.

2009-04-09T09:38:00.003-06:00

Yes, I recommend starving your children.
I say that tongue in cheek,I will always take care of my children. However, not giving Riley all the juice or milk he wants to allow him to feel hungry is the best thing I have done. Riley would always eat a good breakfast but very little at lunch and dinner snacks were non existent. Why? I prayed for inspiration and the answer, which was right in the front of my face, became clear. I was giving him too much to drink during the day. When the rumblings were beginning in his tummy 'drink' was how he solved the problem. Now, I limit when and how much liquid I give him and he eats so much better. One night he was so hungry that the small hamburger and handful of fries didn't have a chance. Last night he ate broccoli with cheese and bow tie noodles. I like Riley small but my little 'pint size prince' needs to grow some before his little sister gets here.

Blood worms anyone? How about mosquito larva? That is a Betta fish's food of choice. Alpha Henry, the Betta fish, joined our family last week. He is dark blue with a little red on his fin. Craig has been wanting to buy a bigger tank (three to five gallon)so Alpha will be happy and the special food for him. This is one fish that will never be unhappy or hungry.

P.S. Julie
I like the Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer.

What I like to do

2009-04-02T13:25:00.004-06:00

I wanted to talk about me for a minute and how I like to spend my free time. Craig likes to play his video games. I've tried and don't find it fun. It is boring playing first person games unlike games like Rock Band. It's more interactive. What I do like to do is read. Currently, I have been reading books about the golden age of Dutch art. Out of all the art movements I like Dutch art the best. Now I don't understand and at times don't care about the techniques involved in art this is purely a historical study. The Dutch artists are realist, painting what they see. I like being able to look at a picture and explore my own feelings and not have to guess what the artist is feeling.

Riley's bucket hat

2009-03-17T16:10:00.003-06:00

As you can see, Riley loves his bucket hat. By the By, Craig is doing very well. No broken bones and no surgery.

My Husband the Super Hero

2009-02-24T14:31:00.004-07:00

So last Thursday at 10min to 10:00am a knock was heard at my door. A knock could mean many things a friend, a package or maybe Ed McMan with a check. I opened the door to find the manager of the apartment building with a message for me. Craig was in an accident, but "he's OK. Go to the Emergency Room right now." The words OK and Emergency Room, in my opinion, don't really go together. However, I didn't freak out but I was flustered a little. Thank the heavens for visiting teachers who do what they are suppose to do. I called for a babysitter and like an angel she was able to watch Riley and do what ever else I needed. I arrived at the hospital 20min later. It was scary to see Craig strapped to a board and to find that his clothes had been cut off of him in order to do test. It remind me of the Incredible Hulk's transformation. Clothes all in tatters expect for around his waist. Strange thing to think of standing in the emergency room. After we found out the results to the test I began to feel a little dizzy. All the excitement finally caught up to me. I quickly sat down so as not to make the situation any worse. So what happened you ask?

Craig fell 10ft. through the roof of a spray room (where cars are repainted). He ended up with only a compression fracture in his back and possible injury to his shoulder. We go to a specialist on Thursday to make sure the injuries do not require any major surgery. Every day Craig gets a little better. He is able to walk and sit upright for longer periods of time. Healing from any injury of the body heart or mind takes one day at a time.

Happy Hoodie-Hoo Day

2009-02-18T13:12:00.004-07:00

Hoodie-Hoo Day is celebrated on Feb. 20th.

It is a holiday to chase away winter and welcome spring. People are to go outside wave their hands over there head and chant "Hoodie-Hoo".

Hoodie Hoo Day is a copyrighted holiday. It was created and is provided, courtesy of the great folks at Wellcat.com

source:www.holidayinsights.com/other/hoo.htm

What else? Riley!!!!

2009-02-18T12:55:00.002-07:00

Danny Boy by the Muppets

2009-02-13T15:47:00.005-07:00

According to legend, kissing the Blarney Stone endows the kisser with the gift of gab (great eloquence or skill at flattery). If that's what happens when a person kisses the Blarney stone, Ireland can keep it.

Guess what?

2009-02-12T12:58:00.006-07:00

It's a girl!! Her name will be Eliza Jane Swartz. Eliza is a great aunt on my side and Jane is Craig's mom's middle name. Now I have to buy things for a little girl. It would have been eaiser if the baby was male, but my mom says I NEED a girl. Now I get to see how Craig is with all the little dresses and shoes and other girly things. (I sure hopoe my little girl isn't too girly, I never was.) I think she will be a daddy's girl like Riley is a mamma's boy. Well see.

If you look close you can see her feet. You can see the profile of her back, little butt and then one foot that looks as if it is pressing on the inside of my tummy. The other foot is sticking out from benind the other.

This is a stright on view of her face. Looks kind of creepy.

This one's for y'all!!

2009-02-04T14:02:00.002-07:00

This is for my mom and for Ariana. I think I am about 19wks. I don't ever remember how far along I am. The only date I am concered with is my due date, July 4. Craig felt the baby on Sunday. He happened to place his hand right on top of the baby. She kicked him and ran away. I say "she" because I think it is a girl. We find out for sure on Feb 12.

Riley drinks milk!!!!

2009-01-29T15:49:00.005-07:00

Riley finally decided that goats milk with chocolate syrup is OK. He guzzles it down like juice. Some of the things I learned from Riley this week. Tunnels made by Daddy are fun to crawl through over and over again, lettuces crispers are fashionable and the closer you are to the camera the better you look.

Happy anniversary

2009-01-12T10:53:00.003-07:00

Reading my sister and brother-in-law's blog, I realized I had not mentioned my own anniversary. Craig and I have been married 4 years now. Craig forgot our anniversary but who could blame him. He was going to school, working two jobs and had been taking care of Riley in the evenings while I felt yucky. I didn't mind, there are a lot more important things to get mad over. Besides, it's a lot easier to surprise Craig if he doesn't know what's going on. I cooked him a stake dinner and found a baby sitter for Riley. It was a nice relaxing evening which is what he needed the most. Of course he did say to me, "I owe you one." I'll remember that around Feb. 14.

One question we ask each other regularly is "Why did you ever marry me?" Our personalities are so different from each other. (I know other people have wondered the same thing.) There is just not a good answer for that question. I married him and am still married because I love him.

Swartz Christmas

2009-01-12T10:33:00.004-07:00

My favorite pic. is of the demon dolls with sharp objects. I knew Barry did something mischievous because he began to laugh at his own joke then very slyly left the room. Craig does the same thing, laugh at his own jokes. The other pictures I thought were just fun to look at. There is one of Grandpa and all the grandsons (yes I am including the dog).

Baby, Baby

2008-12-19T15:18:00.003-07:00

Went to the doctor's today. I heard the baby's heart beat and heard it kick. The baby didn't like the midwife pushing on my belly. It kicked the microphone a couple of times and kept moving around to avoid the microphone. We find out in Feb. what we are having. I want to know this time. I feel that it is important that we find out. I want one less thing to wonder about. I lost five pounds since my last appointment a month ago. No worries since I was not able to eat much for a month and a half. I am definitely making up for it now.

Don't worry were not dead.

2008-12-13T09:43:00.005-07:00

I haven't been able to update our blog lately because I have been having major morning sickness. I could not keep anything down after I ate breakfast. I couldn't take care of my son or my husband. Thankfully the Relief Society chipped in babysat Riley and cooked meals for Craig. I finally asked the midwife for some meds. I feel so much better being able to eat and take care of my family. We think its a girl because this pregnancy is a lot different then Riley. I have felt the baby move (I think) so I guess she has survived the first three months. (I am 11wks along) Craig finished his finals and did wonderful. He is getting As and Bs. Such a smarty. I am very proud of him. He is working hard to support us. Early morning custodial,his regular job at Erickson's and side work on other people's cars. Not to mention taking care of me and Riley while I was sick during finals week. He has been able to keep up because the Lord has blessed him with a strong healthy body. Craig deserves a big kiss and much more. Riley is still tiny but learning fast. His relationship with Craig has improved a lot while I was sick. He was able to play with his daddy. Riley also signs more words like red, dog, sleep, baby, please (sometimes)and bird. Some of the words he doesn't quite know what they mean unless I do it first. He does recognize a dog and then signs dog, the same thing with baby. He loves his Dr. Sesus's ABCs and his puppy book. When ever he sees hot food he decides he must blow on it to cool it down. Its not spitting either, he actually blows air out his mouth. I tried to get him to blow in my harmonica but he didn't understand that. He thought it was funny when I did it. He is very ticklish too. He fakes cough and laugh to get our attention. He has also ate out of the trash can a couple of times when I am not looking. Usually its his old cold cereal nothing dangerous. He also likes to sleep on his stomach with his butt in the air. Sometimes his face is smashed into the side of the bed. Eating is his favorite past time. It finally snowed in Rexburg. Life is slowing down for awhile and it is almost Christmas. Time to take a big deep breath and let it out slowly. We survived one more semester and a few more months in Idaho, we can six more months. So excited to see family in a week.

2008-11-21T15:51:00.001-07:00

I like this video because of Donny Osmond's dance moves.

Guess what?

2008-11-21T15:35:00.003-07:00

For all the friends and family that may not know, I am "great with child" again. I am only 8 wks not 3 months as the nurse first told me (thank heavens for ultrasounds). My new EDD is July 4, 09. If the baby is a girl we will name her Eliza Jane. We don't have a boy's name yet. Craig wanted to name him Bono (U2 lead singer). I will be happy with either one, as long as they come one at a time. The picture is from Halloween. Riley is a hip hop artist, Craig is his manager and I am his security guard. The new baby will be Riley's back up dancer.

FYI

2008-10-22T10:45:00.003-06:00

Riley has finally hit 20lbs! He is now riding in a forward facing car seat. Riley likes to watch Signing Time, a series of DVD that teaches sign language to children. He has signed his first word which is cracker.

Our new blog

2008-10-21T13:43:00.002-06:00

Cast your eyes to the list of blogs we follow. The one titled US is a new blog we started to display our hobbies. Enjoy!

Twilight dud

2008-10-17T11:18:00.004-06:00

So I joined the band wagon and read the first book in the Twilight series. For a whole year I heard about these books. Gripping, entertaining, best thing since Harry Potter. I searched at the library for them but they were either checked out or on hold for someone else. So I waited. Thought about buying it. Boy, am I glad I didn't. I didn't like the first book and have no desire to read the other ones. I am probably the only warm blooded female in Rexburg that didn't like the book. Mostly my dislike stems from personal preferences. Basically, it just wasn't my cup of tea.

First, I don't like paperback romance novels. This book read like one for more then half of it. I like love stories like Pride and Prejudice were there is conflict in the relationship and you learn about the main characters' personality.

Second, I like to imagine Craig in the role of the main love interest. I couldn't do it. This was due to the fact of so many cheesy lines. Now I like a little cheese now and then but not for 17 chapters. This was so annoying I couldn't disgrace Craig by placing him in the lead role.

Third, I like conflict in a story. Emotional, physical or mental. Usually conflict brings people together. Conflict played a major role in this book. Vampire loves human. Vampire's family doesn't approve of human. Community doesn't approve of the vampire family. Vampire and human defy the status quo. I don't think it was developed very effectively. The only major conflict in the book that was developed at all occurred in the last 5 chapters but by that time I was so disgusted by the romance novel aspect that the action was a complete bore. I am hoping the movie is much better.

I hate picking up a book that is a disappointment. That bothers me more then anything.

On the positive side this quote from Stephine Meyer's Twilight that I did find interesting.
Edward being a vampire does not feed on humans. Bella asked why.
"But you see, just because we've been...delt a certain hand...it doesn't mean that we can't choose to rise above--to conquer the boundaries of a destiny that none of us wanted."(307) Has a bit of a Gospel ring to it.
If you like paper back romance novels then read it, you won't be disappointed.

Family Pictures

2008-10-13T12:52:00.009-06:00

After 3 tries ,we were able to get our family pics taken. We will be sending pictures out to everyone. If there is a certain picture that you would like just let us know. We have a CD with all the pictures on them so we can print off what we want to. Riley did ok during the photo shoot. He insisted on crawling around and the silly boy would not smile until we put him in the bucket. Mostly he had a deer in the head lights look.

2008-09-24T10:42:00.005-06:00

Craig said I should put a better picture of Nikki on the Blog. In the other picture she is the one holding the camera. People always look funny when they take pictures of themselves. This one is much better.

Riley's 1st BIRTHDAY!!!

2008-09-15T21:30:00.009-06:00

Riley and his best friend Adam celebrated his first birthday was on August 23rd. It's hard to believe this lil spud is already 1. Our friends Desiree, Rob & Lindsay Coleman, Travis & Tasha Poulson, and Cameron & Mana Riedel came to party with us too. Riley has been the greatest blessing in our lives. He is bursting with personality. Mana says his obsession with holding Nina's hair while nursing will lead him to a long-haired bride. He loves little people - he's always "chatting" with other children his age and crawls out of his way to befriend them. Nina complains about Riley's habit of ramming his head into her leg over and over again while making "Aaaaahhhhhhhhhh" noises as she's trying to make dinner. I think he'll probably be a trumpet player like Uncle Todd b/c he's always taking anything funnel-like and making noises through them. If there's one thing this birthday boy likes the most (besides his way-hip parents) it's music! He loves to dance like a disco star like right out of the Jackson Five.

Because we can, and b/c Riley doesn't know what you can really buy with money, we took full advantage of the opportunity - and went cheap. .75 cents bought a little drum from the local D.I. and he fell in love with it immediately.

Wild and Wonderful West Virginia

2008-09-12T07:24:00.013-06:00

The black spots on Riley's face are bugs. I forgot how bad the bugs are in WV.

Nikki, Amber and Riley

Riley liked to try and catch the water as it came out of the faucet.

Riley and I are in West Virginia for a whole month visiting my family. My sister Amber is getting married this month on the 20th which is the main reason I came home. It is nice to be home. I haven't been home for more then a week since Craig and I got married. I got to meet one niece and I get to watch Julian's (little bro.) flag football game. I even get to spend my birthday with my family. I am glad to be home but I do miss my hubby!!! I can't wait to see him again.

Craig's TOY

2008-08-24T18:10:00.006-06:00

After some persuasive negotiation between my wife and I, our family has been blessed with a new baby boy - a 2005 Kawasaki Ninja EX250 motorcycle!!! Talking to Todd was my ultimate downfall. He told me how much he liked his '02 Ninja and after looking for a deal close to Rexburg (still had to drive to Boise - 3.5 hr drive one-way) day and night, it was inevitable. A man needs speeeeeeed. NOW all the brothers need to do is plan a trip next Summer in Colorado for some fun in the Rockies. Tony might like the name of the color: Bronco blue w/ orange. This little baby gets 60mpg and pushes the 90mph barrier like white-on-rice. It's an amazing little bike for a 250cc. My excuse to Nina was that I needed some 'company' while she was away visiting her family this month. By the way, check out the red-line on the tach! WweeeeehhhaaaaaAAA!

One of the motorcycle shops in Rexburg hosts a "anyone with a motorcycle" ride every Thursday at 6pm. I went this past week and there was 24 of us! There was wind gusts up to 38mph but man was it worth it! SACRIFICE BABY! It was a good way to meet other biker dudes and feel like your special, even if you're riding a 250cc:)

Memories

2008-08-21T15:47:00.007-06:00

Riley will be one in just a couple of days. I was thinking about the past year. Here are things that I remember.
I remember being so tired during the labor and delivery, that is an understatement. However, Craig was more tired then me. He dozed off while I rested between contractions. Craig got a little teary eyed after all was said and done. That was a special moment.

I also remember the mid wives shooting the breeze b/t each other or with Craig. Here I was working the hardest I have ever worked and the mid-wives were talking about getting pictures taken after I finished. They judged I would be finished in time for there photo shoot. Glad I could be so thoughtful.

I was so tired that I didn't want to do it any more. I just wanted Riley to come on his own. But the finial push finialy came with me griping Craig's shirt with one hand and focusing only on him. I was determined to be finished. I had had a enough. I don't remember any pain during the delivery, too tired to care.

During the first four months I would prefer labor to nursing Riley. It was so hard to nurse him every 3 hrs. and then hold him so he would sleep. Now I choose nursing to delivery.

Riley loves to hold my hair for comfort.

After the first four months, time began to fly by fast. Rolling over, talking, and crawling. So much in so little time. He insists on crawling through our legs by ramming his head over and over again against our legs until we spread them. Riley loves to dance. He dances to the radio, TV or when Craig and I sing to him at night. He will even dance while I am nursing him.

When I was still pregnant, I craved dirt and chalk. Living in dry hot Idaho didn't help. I never ate dirt or chalk instead I collected rocks. Almost every day I went outside to the railroad tracks and collected rocks.
When I take Riley outside he refuses to crawl in the grass. Instead he stays only on the side walks and playes in the rock beds that surround our apartment. He does love the slide and swing. He likes to eat broccoli.

We love him very much!

Who does Riley look like more?

Drink anyone

2008-08-11T11:58:00.009-06:00

Craig and I like to watch Project Runway. A reality show where undiscovered designers compete in different challenges. This dress is made completely out of plastic cups. Amazing!! We also like to watch a marathon of Star Trek:TNG on Monday nights. Don't worry we still have FHE.

Flippn' Sweet

2008-08-05T19:11:00.003-06:00

We visited Preston Id for the Napoleon Dynamite festival. We missed most of the actives but did get to see the winner of the Moon Boot Dance and Impresonationcontest. Here is the winner.
Does anybody recognize the farmer in the picture. Yep! He shot the cow. Dale (I think its his name) absolutely loved Riley. In fact he just about grabbed Riley out of my arms.

Weird and scenic landscape

2008-07-31T11:08:00.006-06:00

Craters of the Moon is a national park the size of Rhode Island. (750,000 acre). It can be seen from space.

Craig walking up a cinder cone.
At the top of the cinder cone. Can you guess which way the wind is blowing.
Young lava flows with splatter cones.
Splatter cone and miles and miles of lava rock.

We ate in the small town of Arco. It's claim to fame is being the first city to be powered by atomic power. Craig had to try the Atomic burger!

Walking the cinder cone.

Eleven months old

2008-07-31T10:34:00.004-06:00

Riley used to stay still for pictures.

He found a sucker!
Crators of the Moon, Idaho

2008-07-07T11:24:00.004-06:00

We took Riley to the Splash park a couple of weekends ago. He loves the bath so I thought he would love the park. He crawls so much in the bath that I can hardly wash him properly. He liked the park, but there was so many people there, he sat in one place and watched the people.

The last weekend in June we took a short road trip and saw what remains of the Teton Dam. A 305ft earth fill dam that when if failed in June 1976 allowed 240ft of water to flood the towns down stream. Amazingly enough only 14 people died. It was very impressive and humbling to stand at the foot of the dam and know that in the very spot we were standing a major disaster occurred. The area is so peaceful, the river flowing calmly towards the cities and town that 32 years before had wreaked and caused millions of dollars in damage. It was so still but I felt like the energy of the disaster, the people's feelings of fear and hopelessness, were still there. Disasters have always interested me. Despite the hopelessness of the situation people still come together in unity to rebuild lives.

Craig heard a rumor that the Teton Dam was going to be rebuilt. If the rumor is true, I hope we are hundreds of miles a way and they do a better job the second time.

2008-06-19T14:45:00.003-06:00

Last weekend was very busy for us. We went camping on Thursday and Friday. This is the first time that I have camped in Idaho. Boy was I in for a surprise. There is no humidity to keep you warm at night. The first night it reached down to the twenties, or it felt like it to me. Riley and Craig were nice and warm, I was freezing. It was also lovely to hear the coyotes sing at night. It wasn't just a few, but a whole pack of them. The second day was warmer 70s at night 40s. On Saturday the Rexburg Legacy Museum sponsored an air show. It was a lot of fun to watch the planes preform tricks. Some of the planes the museum owned others were privately owned.

Vroom Vroom

2008-05-30T11:20:00.005-06:00

Here is the scooter and Subaru that Craig worked so hard on. Craig rides the scooter just about everywhere he goes.

2008-05-27T13:19:00.000-06:00

Swing Riley Swing!

2008-05-27T11:23:00.004-06:00

The tag on Riley's shirt reads Jr. Missionary/Solider for the Army of Helman. He received so many compliments on his shirt. It's a bird, it's a plane, no its super Riley in a stroller.

We tried to place Riley in a swing. He didn't quited know what to do. So he went with what he knew best, he tried to eat it. Than he couldn't figure out how to sit back. Finally, he mastered it.

Riley now weighs 14.7pounds and is 27 in. tall.

he is not crawling yet or pulling him self up on things. He is content with sitting or pushing himself around on the kitchen floor. However he is dancing. When Nina plays her flute or harmonica, he sways back and forth with her. Riley also loves to be outside. If we set him in the grass he tries to eat any piece of nature within his reach.

Random Rexburg

2008-04-21T12:19:00.002-06:00

Our neighbors have a rooster for a pet. Here he is standing on his throne gazing over his vast backyard kingdom

2008-04-21T11:22:00.004-06:00

Riley gets really excited when Daddy lets him push the buttons.

Riley is growing so much! He will be 8moths on April 23. This time last year I was only about 4months along. We are excited for him to grow up.

2008-03-13T16:41:00.002-06:00

Craig and I visited The World of the Pharaohs exhibit at the Museum of Idaho in Idaho Falls. We got to see , hieroglyphics, lots of pots, a sarcophagus lid and even a mummified kitten.

2008-03-12T15:25:00.002-06:00

Riley doesn't like his peas just like his dad.

2008-03-12T15:14:00.002-06:00

Rexburg Snow

2008-02-14T11:16:00.003-07:00

They kind of plow the roads and leave a wonderful bank of snow in the center turning lane.

Meal Time

2008-02-14T11:06:00.002-07:00

2008-02-14T10:37:00.005-07:00

Christmas in West Virginia

Nina and Jaclyn (my sister's little girl)

Jaclyn and Riley only one month and four days apart.

Amber, Nina, Nicole and Della

The Nicholas clan: In front is my great grandma Vida Comer

A Swartz Christmas

2008-01-30T20:57:00.000-07:00

CHRISTMAS (better late than never right?...)

2008-01-30T20:17:00.000-07:00

There's a reason we turned the comments part of our blog off... we're complete slackers when it comes to keeping this page up-to-date-oh. The month of January has been wonderfully insane and perfectly joyful! Craig is currently taking one class right now that would other wise be unavailable for him to take in the following semesters. The college has made an exception and allowed him to have "Continuing Education" status that he has graaaacciously except-ed. He is overly excited and enthusiastic about graduating in the next year with his bachelor degree.

Nina has been busy packing up our belongings in high quality cardboard boxes donated by Erickson's Pontiac GMC dealership (Craig's place of employment) and then unpacking them at our new location...across the street. She recently attacked her husband in the middle of the night when exposed to a bad dream where her shoulder blade was being pinched by her attacker [Craig], but otherwise is doing quite well. Nina continues to be an ever hard-working and wonderful mother to her son Riley.

Riley is drooling, alot, and spits after drooling, thereby soaking the front of his shirts. He is beginning to sit up on his own and has a addictive personality that is best expressed when meeting and interacting with people (he's always sweet talkin' the nurses). Riley enjoys grabbing mom's hair and sucking on it, watching people drink tasty beverages, and making random, halarious mouth noises. He is our little wonderful!

Uncle Barry Visits

2008-01-29T07:11:00.000-07:00

Nice and Warm. Ready for Church!

Yikes! Wouldn't want to meet them in a dark alley.

2007-11-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

Yes Swartz fans it's Christmas time again!

We actually decorated our apartment this year.
Working at the Pontiac Green House payed off.

We couldn't forget our faithful gargoyle Godfrey.Merry Christmas!!!!

The Holidays

2007-11-30T12:40:00.000-07:00

Craig, Riley and I spent Thanksgiving with Steve Crow and his in-laws. As you can see Steve was the cook. He deep fried two turkeys, and roasted one. There were also tons of mashed potatoes, stuffing and other Thanksgiving goodies.

one month old

2007-10-07T20:14:00.000-06:00

It's been a busy first month for the three of us. But here's some pictures of our little Riley a day after his first month unbirthday.

ROCK ON MAN, ROCK ON...

hOW its GOINg?

For the first time in 5 weeks, Nina & I were able to go on a date while Riley was babysat by some good friends, the Scotts. The nice thing about having a college in a itty bitty town like Rexburg is concerts! We saw The Side Street Strutters, a jazz band that plays at Disney World. It was a wonderful night of some awesome jazz classics! After the concert we found a great pretzel company named We're Twisted Pretzels. Mom was immediately contacted soon after for a recipe that we used the next day:)

Riley had a check up recently and is now 9lbs from his meager 7.2lbs! He's getting so cute and chunky! His new thing is to blow bubbles out his mouth and spend long, wonderful, quiet minutes staring at mom and dad while they move about the living room.

1st CNRSWARTZ blog

2007-10-07T19:31:00.000-06:00

The Swartz's are trying to make their spot on the internet for all family to see. Here's one of our first videos of Riley! ENJOY! We like to call'em our Idaho lil' spud.