Meet the Stocks!

A new me-but not the way I imagined!

2011-07-06T15:02:00.000-06:00

Since having my third angel, Karley, I have been battling my body image and the image in my head of what I want to be and what I am. I realize I have had 3 kids in 3 years, but it still stinks that I am wearing a bigger size. Thankfully, my husband does not care or even notice, but I don't feel attractive, which makes it hard to receive a compliment.

However, I have several young women from the ward who come daily to my house to help with kids and avoid summer boredom. I realized that I need to be a better role model, and this includes worrying about my weight. I do not want these girls or my own kids to worry about being super thin, so I need to change my ideas about weight. While I do want to be healthy, I am not going to guilt myself for not being a size 2. I have a healthy body to hold my babies, I can nurse my little girl who is starting to get chubby, and I am healthy for once with very few problems.

I read in an article a few sentences that express how I feel. I hope for those that read it, this helps too! "Yes, a few moms are flat-tummied and back in their regular clothing within weeks of delivery, but it's rare, and not worth comparing yourself if you're not one of these women. Think of your slightly rounder hips, softer tummy, and thicker waist as a small price to pay for the wonderful new person in your life."

Not a super mom day

2011-04-27T11:10:00.000-06:00

Today has been crazy!
   Karley has been feeding constantly, which wears me out, because I do not sleep or eat enough for myself to begin with. When she is not eating, she is crying because someone is not always holding her. Sarah has been having a hard time lately, without any cause, which adds to the noise in the house with HER crying also. Adam likes to beat up on the little girl I watch, which causes MORE crying, and leads to me yelling at him and needing to punish/discipline him.
   I am still in school for my master's degree, and with two kids, it was feasable. Now, with a newborn and two other kids in the house, making it 5 kids under 4 yrs, I feel like a banshee who just constantly screams. I do not get time to do homework by myself, because Richard is either at school or visiting/helping someone in the ward as he is Elder Quorum President.
  I do not normally yell or shout, and the need to do so to get above the crying in the house leaves me feeling like a bad mom and wife. I have come to accept that my house will not be spotless, like I would like it to be, for many years to come, in spite of teaching the kids to pick up after themselves. I am the only one who cares how the house looks, so as long as I can shove the things into another room and have the living room decent, I am content for now.
  I have to do laundry, dishes, baths, and bed by myself most of the time, which I just have to accept. Richard earns the money for us while I spend it-that is how it works in our house. I also have to accept that the kids ARE learning from everything I say and do, and in order to teach them good things, I need to find ways to be happy myself. I play music to keep me sane and calm, and some days I have to take a break and do homework or just chat with friends for a few minutes online, in order to stay focused, vent a little, and escape from the crying chaos.
  Life will not always be this way, but sometimes it feels like it will. I hope in the meantime, that the Lord hears my prayers and grants me the additional strength, energy, patience AND sanity that I need to survive and remember to love these kids!

Family horoscopes

2011-03-20T12:44:00.000-06:00

For those of you who may have wondered what lies underneath each of us, here it is:

RICHARD: Pisces: A deeply creative imagination enhances your Pisces child's experience of life, imbuing it with varied hues and shimmering possibilities. You might find her staring off into space, but there's plenty going on in that unfathomable mind of hers -- feelings, impressions, and bits of intuition woven together in a rich mosaic of perception.

Pisces children are incredibly tender and compassionate, and they need extra affection from their parents. Your little Pisces may want to be held nonstop as a baby and will still need plenty of hugs, kisses, and encouragement as she grows older.

Pisces children are often more concerned with their instincts than with logic, and more interested in their dreams or fantasies than in "real life." As the parent of a Pisces child, you can help to ground her in reality; avoidance and escapism are typical Piscean traits.

So is idealism. Your Pisces child may have grand visions of the way life could and should be, which will then fall flat in the harsh light of reality.

Since your little Pisces is so emotionally sensitive (as well as physically and psychically), you'll need to be careful which people and influences you expose her to and what you feed her. Don't be surprised if she brings home stray kittens and other friends in need. Her heart's capacity to love and serve is enormous -- sometimes to a fault.

Your Pisces child needs to protect herself against people who would take advantage of her giving and gullible nature, and that's one area in which you, as her parent, can step in.

JAMII: Leo/Virgo cusp: The Leo/Virgo is a curious mixture of introverted and extroverted tendencies, modesty and flamboyance, and a capacity to see both the largest and the smallest picture in every situation. They are practical and logical, and extremely creative. Virgo and Virgo cusps are skilled at seeing all sides of a situation. In this way, Virgo exemplifies the mutable quality assigned to it. Leo and Leo cusps hold strong, steady opinions and have a strong ability to see their projects through to the end. In this way, Leo exemplifies the fixed quality assigned to it. Leo/Virgos are good businesspeople because of their methodical attention to detail and their ability to stick with a practical and organized routine. They are good organizers, and they tend to be popular, even inspiring.

Leo is ruled by the Sun. Virgo is ruled by the planet Mercury. In ancient Roman mythology, Mercury (and his Greek equivalent, Hermes) was the messenger god. He was a quick, nervous type, and he was known for his strong reasoning and capacity for analyzing. Communication is his province. As a planet, Mercury is androgynous. In ancient times, the Sun was believed to be the center of the Universe, the core of existence, the Father. Leo/Virgo cusps are gregarious and social, fun-loving and live life with enthusiasm. The natural leadership of these people and their administrative prowess help ensure that their projects are successful. Leo/Virgos enjoy exploring subjects or interests deeply. They are very good at understanding the deeper meaning of what others say. They rely on logic rather than emotion to make their decisions. They are reliable, practical and diligent, but they can sometimes seem picky or overcritical to those who aren't as discriminating as they are.

Leo/Virgos are decisive and direct, optimistic that they will succeed. Sometimes they exaggerate problems and overreact to stumbling blocks, but generally they are positive and their natural pride and stubborn streak keeps them from giving up. The element associated with Leo is Fire. Fire Signs are physical: they tend to respond to the world through action, rather than intellect or emotion. The element associated with Virgo is Earth. They tend to respond to the world by examining the worth of each possible response. Leo/Virgos, or Fire/Earth signs, are able to analyze and then take appropriate action. They are selective and discriminating, but are always moving and quick. Their warmhearted and outgoing personalities are fiery and abundant. They are cheerful and self-assured, and they are studious and sensible in business dealings. They are skeptical of extravagant claims and promises. Many Leo/Virgos, however, love to gamble, and may be brash and extravagant at the gaming table. They also tend to be very health-conscious. They are concerned with diet and hygiene. This interest in health ensures they take good care of their mental and physical selves.

In their leisure time, Leo/Virgos prefer to play in groups rather than solo. It is less important to them that exercise be interesting, so long as it is effective and social. Their perfectionism and physical strength make them strive to excel in whatever sport they choose.

In love relationships, Leo/Virgo is devoted and sometimes jealous, but not especially flirtatious. The great strength of Leo/Virgos is in their creativity and attention to detail, and their desire to be of service. They pick up on the little things that most miss. Thoughtful gifts or unique solutions to problems are second nature to those with this astrological placement. Their commitment to helping others makes them one of the most giving characters of the zodiac.

ADAM: Virgo: Practicality and conscientious attention to detail are two of your Virgo child's foremost traits, even from an early age. You might find her organizing her toys or saving her allowance to buy some coveted item while other children spend their money on immediate gratification.

Your little Virgo isn't likely to be frivolous. Rather, she measures the pros and cons of a situation and goes with what makes the most sense. Virgo children have high standards and are naturally cautious, so they can seem picky or reserved, but this is simply because they prefer to stand back and assess a situation rather than throwing themselves into it.

Your Virgo child is a natural helper. She appreciates order and genuinely wants to pitch in and be of service to the family and, later, to the world -- a trait that should be commended and developed.

As the parent of a Virgo, you'll need to temper your child's expectation of perfection with the message that sometimes, good enough is just that -- good enough. Build up her confidence as much as you can, for your child is likely to be self-effacing and overly humble.

Help your little Virgo relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life by getting outside into nature -- going swimming or for a long, meandering walk. Balanced meals, scheduled naps, and regular downtime will all be important for your Virgo child, who may tend to be rather fretful and anxious. Anything that promotes relaxation will help your child stay calm and centered.

SARAH: Leo: Warmth, loyalty, and generosity are just a few of your Leo child's many shining characteristics. Leo children are enthusiastic and affectionate, and they experience life with the whole of their enormous hearts.

Sensitive, proud, and often just a wee bit vain, Leo children seem lionhearted on the outside, but they're actually rather vulnerable emotionally. One harsh word can knock a Leo's self-confidence right off balance, so you'll have to be careful about how you talk to your Leo son or daughter, especially when it's time for discipline.

Leo's primary needs include attention and approval, and a Leo child will do what it takes to secure the appreciation of his parents, friends, and anyone else around. These little ones have a natural dramatic flair. Your child might treat you to impromptu performances from an early age, and you may notice him looking into the mirror often or dressing himself with a colorful sense of style.

Just as criticism can wound their souls, Leo children thrive on compliments and recognition of their accomplishments. And they're likely to rack up accolades throughout childhood and into adulthood: Your little Leo could easily become the star performer in his school choir, drama group, soccer team, or any other venue that allows him to shine.

Be sure to reward your child for his many strengths, including his bone-deep sense of loyalty and morality. He may not realize that these internal gifts are even more important and admirable than his ability to impress others with his humor or good looks.

KARLEY: Aries:

Aries children possess a passionate, creative, and restless nature. They seem to have more energy than other children, with a vitality that's matched only by their natural bravery. Their "me first" attitude can be a challenge for anyone who has to contend with their high spirits and frequent self-absorption.

Legendary for their straightforward honesty, Aries children tell it like they see it. They can overstep boundaries because they're naturally impulsive and tend not to look before they leap.

As the parent of a young Aries, you're probably no stranger to epic temper tantrums. Yes, Aries children have a hard time keeping their emotions under control, but there's a positive side to this: They don't hold a grudge. Once the fireworks are over, so is their anger.

Since Aries children are great at starting grand projects but not as keen on sticking with them, you'll need to be patient as you guide your child gently but firmly, helping her stay on track.

Also make sure she gets plenty of exercise. Any vigorous activity will be an excellent outlet for her energy, and if it's a competitive sport, so much the better. But be sure she wears a helmet or any other essential safety gear. In their eternal hurry, Aries children tend to be accident-prone.

Wonderful day!

2011-03-19T23:01:00.000-06:00

I am so lucky! Richard let me sleep in by myself until 9:30 am and the kids did not interrupt me-at least I was so tired I don't remember them coming in. Then, he took care of them while I made crepes for breakfast, and as I put Sarah and Adam down for naps, he cleaned the living room. He also did the dishes while I bathed them, and made sure we were taken care of for the night before leaving for basketball. Things like this remind me why I love him so much and that we ARE a good team.

On the other hand, I am having a hard time dealing with the pain, and I am constantly tired and nauseas again. It's like the beginning, but with a giant baby inside who kicks back this time lol! I am also sad, because my two girlfriends, Janalee who was two days before me, and Bettyna, who was 2 wks before me, both had their babies yesterday; now I am the only pregnant person left, and although I am happy for them, I am sad I have no pregnant friends to commiserate with me. But, "to everything there is a season!"

I decided to rearrange the kids' toddler beds in our rooms. I took out the semi-broken bed that was intended for Sarah, since she won't sleep in it by herself, and moved Adam's closer to my side of the bed. I guess that must have done the trick in ensuring his confidence, because he willingly put on pajamas, and went to sleep in his bed by himself. The funny part, is that sarah would not go to sleep without a binky in her mouth. Adam must have been really sick of Sarah crying, because he quickly gave his binky to me for her to use. She went to sleep within 3 minutes, and I gave it back to him.

I think I am the one having separation anxiety from realizing my babies are growing up so quickly. I understand that my job as a mother is to give my children the confidence, love, support, and tools necessary to one day leave; but at the same time, it's crazy to realize how fast the time flies and that we are coming to the next phase of their lives so quickly. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a mother and would not trade it for anything! I can't wait to meet my next little girl, and I hope the kids are happy about it too!

Some day...

2011-03-16T20:18:00.000-06:00

People try to console me and say that I am almost done with my pregnancy. And yet, at the same time, I want to throw my shoe at their head and exclaim, "Then you carry the baby the rest of the way, and see if you say the same thing when you throw up with a full-size baby inside of you who kicks back when you do so!" But, that will accomplish nothing. And, it's true I would rather she did not have any problems.

But I WOULD love for the pain to be gone. I cannot breathe, eat, sleep, walk, or do much else without difficulty or pain. My kids want to sit on my "lap," but there is not much of one left to sit on. I do find comfort from my two girlfriends who are close to the same due date as me and are going through the same misery, so we complain together.

I am grateful for my brother, Simon, and his girlfriend, Lia, who are living with us temporarily; they help with my kids and the two other kids I watch, when I need to rest, or just need an extra hand. I am not sure what I am going to do without them. Our hope, however, is that some time after October this year, we will be able to get a house together with them.

Richard was just called to be the Elder's Quorum President, which seemed like a daunting calling at first, but I truly believe and felt at the time he was called that it was right and suits him. There is a lot of work ahead of him, but he will be great at it.

Adam is learning new words at such a rapid rate that it blows me away! He is so smart-sometimes too much for his own good. Richard got a new smart phone and taught Adam to play games on it. I don't even know how to dial on his phone, and yet Adam can find the games he wants, turn the volume on and off, and he's not even 3 yrs old yet!

Sarah is my darling little mommy copycat! She loves to cuddle, but has to do whatever I do and be wherever I am. She is sooo funny, and makes some of the silliest facial expressions. She also has the fiesty spirit of a Leo, much like her great-grandmother, which makes sense since she has her name!

All in all, I am very lucky. Things are going well this year, and we are happy. Although money is tight, it's better than it was a few years ago, and we are absolutely loving our ward. We also have wonderful neighbors who have been a great support throughout this pregnancy. We are "patiently" awaiting the arrival of our baby girl, Karley Anne. it seems I will have a Cautious child (adam), a caring/comforting child (Sarah), and a crazy/wild child (Karley). We will see!

Third charm!

2010-08-17T10:43:00.000-06:00

Well, it's official, we are having another baby. Due date is April 10, 2011, and I have a strong feeling it is a boy. Just like with Adam, I am incredibly sick. I lost 5lbs just last week, and cannot keep anything down. The dr wants me to have an IV pump at home with medicine and fluids since now is so critical while the baby is developing organs, bones, and such. In the meantime, Adam and Sarah just had birthdays and are cute and smart as ever! How am I so blessed? In spite of the sickness, these cuties remind me daily why I am going through this and help me stay positive and not allow myself to wallow in pity or pain.

Try it for free!

2010-06-03T17:17:00.000-06:00

Hey friends, I thought this might be a fun way to help pay for christmas or other gifts. It's free, but may take some while to get points if you don't want to buy anything. Just sign up and search, participate in daily polls and gets points. After enough points, you get free stuff!

Sarah

2010-05-28T17:46:00.000-06:00

I had to add these cute cheeks! My parents don't like naked baby bum pics, but I love them-especially the dimple in her bum!

Another day, another rain storm...

2010-05-28T17:43:00.000-06:00

It's raining again, which actually thrills me! Richard and I were dumped on by freezing rain on our wedding day, so rain in May always reminds me of that. Adam is such is a cute little helper, cleaning the house in his own little way and following me around, trying to mimick whatever I say or do. Sarah is almost walking on her own, and LOVES to shred, bite, tear, or spread anything she can get her hands on. She LOVES to flip upside down, and is soooo funny! We have new callings-Richard is in the YM and I am the ward asst organist. Not a calling I would ask for, since I have done it since I was 16 yrs old, but what can you do? Other than that, we are just plugging along and trying to make the most of life!

Precious!

2010-03-18T14:25:00.002-06:00

I am so grateful for two of the cutest babies in the world! They are so funny and have so much personality and so much potential. Sometimes I am scared to think of all I am supposed to teach them in the last days, because there are so many negative things. But then I look at their sweet faces and realize they will not be alone and that if anyone can do it, they can! I love my miracle babies!

Little copy cat!

2010-03-18T14:19:00.002-06:00

Adam has become quite the observer! Years ago when Yoda was ging thru puberty, so to speak, I gave him a stuffed bear to hump so he would not hump people's legs when they visited us. Well, Adam has seen him do it now and then-this is what I saw when I came up the stairs one day! Funny part is that the bear is face up the right way-and yes, there were even sound effects!

2010-03-18T14:17:00.000-06:00

Sarah got her ears pierced! Surprisingly, she actually only cried for about 2 minutes. She is so darling, and I may be a mean mommy, but we think she looks adorable!

2010-03-18T14:14:00.000-06:00

My little cuties-Adam had to try on Sarah's hat. Still stinkin' cute either way!

Christmas 2009

2010-03-18T14:07:00.000-06:00

Our cute little Adam learned the point of presents; he is definitely mommy's boy because he couldn't wait for Christmas-he has been picking away at the wrapping of two presents.
Then, on Christmas day after unwrapping his presents, he went back thru all the wrapping as if to see if there were more presents and looked so sad that it was all done!

Sarah is here!

2010-03-18T14:03:00.000-06:00

Sarah Ruth Stock

6lbs 5oz 19 inches, tons of hair. Our first night-owl baby, but soo cute!

2009-06-25T06:52:00.002-06:00

Father's Day 2009!! Adam is growing so big and sooo fast! He is 10 months and weighs 25 lbs and 28 inches-98%. We are excited to have baby Sarah Ruth come to our family. We are looking for places to rent until Jamii finishes school. Richard will have his Associate's degree in spring 2010 and life just keeps getting bigger. Let us know how you are doing!

Happy boy

2009-04-14T01:16:00.003-06:00

Our little Adam is so adorable, it's almost disgusting. He now understands what a camera is, so he smiles just about every time we take a picture.

And happy is three-or four!

2009-01-25T21:31:00.003-07:00

We are going to have a new baby on the way again! I was taking penicillin for a root canal when Adam was 2 months old, and it made the birth control ineffective. Now I will have babies 11 months apart. But, they will still both be babies, have nap time, and I will have two excuses for being so tired!
Adam is growing like a weed! He is not 26 in, 18lbs, and in the 76th percentile for his height and weight! He rolls over (when he thinks no one is looking) and loves to try new flavors! He started getting his molars at 4 months, and they have not yet broken, but life sure has since it started! We will be so glad when they come in! Other than that, we are just growing and getting ready to move in with Richard's parents!

Adam's First halloween

2008-11-24T10:40:00.001-07:00

2008-09-18T21:24:00.007-06:00

2008-09-18T21:24:00.005-06:00

Richard and his new best friend

Mommy and her boys
Yoda protecting Adam-he really does do this
Richard, jamii, Adam, Melissa, William, Addy

Here he comes!

2008-09-18T21:24:00.003-06:00

Our little Adam Richard Stock was 7lbs 3oz, born on August 25th, 2008 at 4:22 pm. He had jaundice, so we had to visit the hospital every day for a week, and had lights in our home, but he got over it quickly. He is going to be a tall boy, at 21"!!

Temple date

2008-06-15T22:19:00.005-06:00

Temple date-7 months pregnant!

2008-05-31T11:13:00.005-06:00

6 months going strong! We were bored, so we painted faces on my growing belly!

It's a boy!

2008-04-27T14:37:00.003-06:00

This is me at 20 weeks! I still am not gaining weight, but with so many kicks, we know the baby is fine! It's a boy, and the due date is September 14th!!!

New York

2008-02-13T00:59:00.003-07:00

My Grandma's 90th birthday! She is so tiny and cute!

My dad is adorable, but still crazy. That was his form of an umbrella!
Family. See, I really AM Chinese!
Kati is eating a tiny octupus! I was pregnant, and gagged when she did it!

More Clements kids

2008-02-13T00:57:00.003-07:00

Little archers. They are so cute at it!

Jamie thinks he is Robin Hood now! Already being corrupted so young!

Cutest nieces and nephews

2008-02-13T00:54:00.003-07:00

Just having some fun!

2008-02-13T00:50:00.003-07:00

My pretty husband! It's amazing what he lets me get away with!

I had to be fair. He wrote on my face, "Good thing I love you, because this sucks."

Yoda!

2008-02-12T14:41:00.001-07:00

He loves being outside!
His new favorite thing is to sit on the computer desk while I do homework! Hey, he's my boy and I'll dress him up if I want to!
Isn't he so cute?!?

More Yoda!

2008-02-12T14:37:00.002-07:00

Snuggle puppy!

Too much hair! Richard calls him Yodina when it gets like this!
He also has to lie on top of my books when I study, so I have to open a separate book just so I can read!
He jumps in the laundry basket every time we try to fold them!

My Yoda boy

2008-02-12T14:26:00.003-07:00

Bath Mohaw!

Bunny boy!

If you say, "Yoda, smile!", he cocks his head like that every time!

My little boy loves driving!

Wedding day pics!

2008-02-12T14:17:00.001-07:00

My Love!

2008-02-12T14:11:00.001-07:00

Richard and I were married on May 4, 2007. It was DUMPING rain, but it was gorgeous in the afternoon, just in time for our outdoor reception!

Cute girls!

2008-02-12T14:09:00.002-07:00

My best girls! L-R(Amy, Laralynn, Me, Amber, Diedre). They helped me finally get there, and I love these girls to death!