What is Harris Baby #3?

We have our big ultrasound tomorrow and we've decided (after much deliberation) to find out the gender. Go ahead and take the poll to the right to guess what it will be. We have one of each, so you probably have a 50% chance of getting it right. Stay tuned for an update with real results!

My Fish Emma

Emma completely shocked us a few weeks ago when we jumped in the pool after the beach. I didn't have her floaty so I thought she would just stay on the steps... NOPE. We had NO IDEA that she can totally swim. Here's the proof:

My Baby is 5!

For Nate's 5th birthday I thought it would be fun to go back in time and reflect on the last 5 years...here goes.

Nate on the day of his birth.

Nate's 1st birthday party with family at our apartment in California.

Nate just days after his 2nd birthday.


Nate enjoying some yummy cake at a small 3rd birthday party at our home in California.


Nate's 4th birthday where he debuted his razor scooter moves.


Nate enjoying his birthday breakfast of "rollyups" this morning.

We'll post more pictures of the day's festivities later, but for now,
Happy 5th Birthday Nate!!

I Love My Job

This morning I woke up to noises in the kitchen. Knowing Andrew had left for work a few hours earlier I was curious as to who it could be. I listened intently to sounds of dishes knocking, silverware clattering and cereal pouring. A minute later a cute little 4 yr old face appeared beside my bed with a bowl full of apple jacks and milk. Nate cheerily said, "I made you breakfast, mom!"

He handed me the bowl then proceeded to make himself a bowl of cocoa puffs. He returned bowl in hand and joined me in bed while we watched a little tv together munching on our cereals. Life is sweet.


Since we've moved into the temporary condo Emma has been a little anxious about sleeping by herself in her large king sized bed. Each night she asks if I will lay with her so she can fall asleep. Some nights I have other things I need to do, or want to do, but when I give in to her pleadings we share the sweetest moments. One night I mentioned to her that she's a little cuttle bug.

She has quickly picked up on this and now asks, "Mom, will you lay with me? I'm your little cuttle bug." She knows what melts my heart. And anyone who knows her knows that this is true. She is the sweetest, cuddliest, huggiest, kissiest little girl, even at times hugging strangers. (We'll have to put a stop to this before her teenage years, but for now it is so endearing.)

Which brings me to the point of my post. I love my job. Although at times it is rough and I want to run for cover, there are many moments that I cherish. One of my favorites talks was given by M. Russel Ballard at a conference for our church. In speaking to mothers he gives advice on reducing the pressure and enjoying the family more. He says, "First, recognize that the joy of motherhood comes in moments. There will be hard times and frustrating times. But amid the challenges, there are shining moments of joy and satisfaction." This has been so true this summer as I've had a lot more time to enjoy the kids and the true JOY they bring. I love you Nate and Emma!


Here's a link to that talk if you're interested... its great for all moms, dads and kids!
http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=9694558fcc599110VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD

4th Family Beach Trip

For Independence Day, we decided to go to the beach as a family. The kids and I go quite a bit, but somebody has to work in this family, so Andrew can rarely go with us. The kids just can't get enough and could stay there forever.
Andrew was only able to sit and relax for a few minutes before the kids beckoned him to help dig big holes, build sandcastles, and help body board, all of which he did happily.
Of course, there are no pictures of me (thank goodness, I WAS in a swimsuit, after all) because I was the family photographer of the day. But Nate was sure to let me know that having his picture taken is another one of the things he has outgrown, as evidenced by his facial expression in the picture below. "No pictures, Mom!"
On a personal note, I must say this was my favorite Independence Day so far. We had a great day as a family. Not only did we go to the beach, we also swam in the pool twice, went on 2 family walks, had ice cream, watched fireworks and ate delicious watermelon. Though we didn't do anything "over the top" we really bonded and had a great time in each other's company. I am so grateful for all the freedoms and conveniences we enjoy in this country and all those currently and in the past who serve and protect our country to keep it that way.