the CROWELLS: 2011

...Spencer Everett surprised us by entering our world his way--fast and at home {where he apparently was most comfortable}. Mr. Spence has been full of surprises ever since: Huge baby boy (people have often told me they only believe he's ours because I had him at home, otherwise we could have totally been given a baby belonging to someone else), super healthy (not sick once--at least from what I can remember), ate solids at 4.5 months, had "vampire" teeth until his front two popped in, and didn't really get a full head of hair until the end of his 10th month. What would life be like without surprises anyway! So, we celebrated. I took so many pictures of Spence, I didn't take any pictures of our Skype/gVideo with family, nor friends helping make a great party. We love you!

Naturally, we made "Spencer's Chocolate Cake," the potential culprit for the time-reduced labor--that rich chocolate aroma sure is relaxing....until your water breaks the sweet dream and sends a baby! Wish I'd had powdered sugar, but Spence didn't mind the mini M&M's. He loved the cake. He loves food and will let you know it, too. Music moves this boy--swaying to the birthday song was too darling.

Couldn't resist buying the "blue-light" (what they generally go by here)/green-checkered ambulance---and the Medic appropriately dressed in his green (we promise your future birthday themes will not be emergency-related, sweet boy). We are so happy you entered our world.

Postcard Book: Spencer's First Year

Going through Spencer's first year made me realize a lot of things: Spence kind of looked like a little old man when he was tiny (always been wise and deep in thought), we captured his first "social smile" at two months, Spence loves to be outside, appropriately "blew raspberries," loves to play the piano, and rays a smile making me give in to almost everything. Most of all, I realized what an hourglass life is. His turning one came way too fast and I cried as I sifted through his newborn pictures. Every minute of my little ones' lives are so valuable. I shouldn't need this reminder. Seeing their bright eyes and smiling faces every day should be enough of a reminder to soak up every minute.

Happy First Year, sweet Spencer. We love you.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Return

Yes, we returned to England more than a month ago and have lived out the summer to the fullest {posts will follow}! One of the best events to wrap up the summer was the return of my brother from the Hmong-speaking, Fresno California Mission. Had our server been in our favor and had I set my alarm for 1:30 am--instead of 1:30 pm--we could have witnessed Kyle's arrival at the airport via FaceTime. Thank you family for capturing it all--including the two top pictures. My eyes immediately welled up when I saw them. Thankfully, I woke up randomly {an angelic wake-up call} at 5am {I never wake up at this time} from a dream that I'd missed Sarah's video call and slept through my alarm! Well, Corey and I refreshed our router and called the De Young's. Things had just wound down at the De Young Home with visits from family and friends, so it ended up being a perfect time to talk. What I have loved most about Kyle's two-year service as a missionary was our weekly email exchange. As I watched Kyle transform as a missionary, I'd witnessed a transformation in myself as a better wife, mother, and person. It seems as though whatever we love most in life must involve some form of personal sacrifice. It is a natural law I think, and has been before this earth even began. Convenience is never really present when it concerns thinking of and acting upon that impression in behalf of a family member or friend; yet, it is that element of sacrifice which strengthens that love and relationship. I'm pretty sure I can apply this to any relationship in my life--most importantly with those who are dearest to my heart. Kyle gave two years of his life and heart to the Hmong people in Fresno and loves who they are. Thank you, Kyle for teaching me how to be more selfless. Thank you to the gospel for helping become a better person.

Friday, July 22, 2011

Clear Blue Skies

It's amazing to think we've been home for two weeks now! Our flights over were some of the best we've ever had---I even watched a movie (okay, not all in one sitting, but I did finish it)! Our first morning home was an early one. So thanks to Spencer, I witnessed one of my very favorite things about being home: Watching the sun peek up over the mountains while breathing in the sweet fresh mountain air.
I've never really noted just how blue Utah's skies are until this visit. Maybe it's the view of the endless azure-dipped sky against the green and red mountains which makes it so distinct, but skies are colored blue almost every day.
We've BBQ-ed it with all that summer brings, thrilled it on rides at Lagoon, and gamed it with Ticket-to-Ride. What I love most is chatting with family and friends while watching the sunset mirror on the mountains and feeling the summer wind sweep across my feet. It's nice to be home for a while.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Ortakoy with Gokhan & Ozge

While crossing the Galata Bridge to meet up with Gokhan and Ozge, we satisfied our tummies with a fresh grilled fish sandwich along the restaurant strip.

The definite highlight of this trip was meeting up with Ozge {in Section J--Corey's section at school} and Gokhan. Little did we know Ozge would be welcoming baby Ece only a week after she so graciously showed us around!
Ozge and Gokhan introduced us to jacket potatoes--Ortakoy style! :) Shredded beets, carrots, onions, corn, red pepper, mayonnaise, and more deliciousness. :) The locals accompany the potato goodness with a soured milk drink {Ayran} that reminded us of a sort of sour cream yogurt drink. While my taste buds were anticipating a sweet milk, they quickly adjusted to the sour complementing the jacket potato.

Stunning Ortakoy on the Bosphorus River (that bridge in the background connects the Anatolian Istanbul, or Asian side, to European Istanbul). :)

Ozge and Gokhan did some smart shopping, selecting the best eye--nazar--to ward off anything bad or evil against Spencer {Elsie was lucky enough to get one of these charms from Ozge and Gokhan when she was born in Boston}.

They treated us to one of the best kebab places in town. The kebab meat was on top of this naan bread with some sour cream on the side, topped with grilled red pepper and some beans. Divine. Okay, so I superimposed these dishes, but it's what it would have looked like before we devoured the yummy meal.
It was so nice to stroll down streets of newer Istanbul and chat with good friends. Elsie wouldn't let go of Gokhan or Ozge's hand---wish I'd had a good picture of that. We returned to the elevator parking garage--yes, a parking garage with elevators that move the cars into cubicles on different levels! Ozge and Gokhan's car was elevated into a slot and then returned in fashion {as if it were on rotating display}--positioned and ready to leave the garage. It was awesome.
We were sad to leave Ozge and Gokhan and were so glad to spend the time we did with them. Thanks for making a meaningful trip.

A couple of days later lead us to the Basilica Cistern. It lies 500 feet under Istanbul and is one of the largest of all the ancient cisterns. While there are all kinds of Ionic and Corinth pillars, there are two pillars standing on Medusa heads {I guess to frighten away any bad luck}. The cistern gave water to the Great Palace of Constantinople {yes that song ran through my head our ENTIRE trip--thanks The Four Lads and They Might be Giants} and later to the Topkapi Palace. It was an awesome marble forest of pillars and our kids loved all the fish swimming among the sparkling coins.

One of the neatest things we did was cross the river to Anatolian Istanbul to watch the sun set on old Istanbul, or the Sultanahmet. It was relaxing to just walk along the board walk and enjoy some good food {not to mention get a large blue balloon}. There was nothing more beautiful than to see the minarets pierce the colorfully brushed sky.

While the hotel we stayed at tempted us with a hamam, or Turkish bath, we didn't quite feel like we could spend the money to go all out. It's about an hour-long process of washing, scrubbing, and massaging--leaving your skin silky brand new. We did however step inside the heated room, wash our faces in the basins, and lie down on the tummy stone. I nearly fell asleep {I know that will be a surprise to some of you. :)}.

Finally, we thought we'd end on some of our Turkish favorites: An herbal apple tea, which reminded us of American apple cider; a sesame pretzel, which was like a thin doughnut-of-a-bagel covered in sesame seeds; and some Turkish Delight, a lovely gummed candy mixed with pistachios {apparently a Briton traveled between Britain and Istanbul, liked the lokma so much he shipped a case of it to Britain under the name "Turkish Delight"}.
Thank you, Turkey for a great Easter Vacation. Thank you Ozge and Gokhan for sharing your home.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

My Favorite Pal

From Crowell Post

My daddy is my favorite pal,
And I help him every day.
It's plain to see I want to be
like him in every way.

I honestly hope our kids turn out to be like Corey in every way. Happy Father's Day.

Monday, June 13, 2011

Touring Topkapi {Top-kap-uh}

Technically, the "i" at the end of Topkapi and Sarayi should be "dotless," giving it the "uh" sound. Anyway, this huge palace reminded me a lot of the Alhambra, Spain. Topkapi Palace (1465-1856) was once the home to 4,000 people at one point and held a bakeries, hospital, a mint, and mosques. We made some friends with a few people (and one of the many kitties) in the courtyards.

Lots of people we met couldn't get over our bald, blue-eyed little chunk of love.

Throughout the large courtyards (which hosted lots of tulips--Turkey is where they originate) and all the buildings, Spencer and Elsie both saw some really fancy Ottoman architecture.

They were sure to ask me to document it, too. :) Honestly, the detail in the tiles, wood, and murals was incredible.

There were plenty of places to just go for a stroll...the best way to tour.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Taste of Turkey

I think the Haya Sofia had to have been one of my favorites. Simple, yet rich in its history. The exact inverse of the Mezquita in Cordoba, Spain, the Haya Sofia was once a cathedral (largest until Seville's was finished) then converted into a mosque when the Ottoman Turks took over. It's now a museum. While Islamic symbols decorate the mosque, a fresco of the Virgin Mary and the Christ child remain in the nave. The best of the best when it comes to Byzantine architecture (hence the pillar pic); red, green, and yellow patterns permeate the building. One place of worship under one God. If only it were realistically that simple.

We then made our way to the Blue Mosque (named because of its blue tiles inside), or locally known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque. We waited in the courtyard during prayer (Corey was able to slip in--guess I didn't blend quite like him); and then filed in afterward. Elsie had a short conversation with Corey and me:

Elsie: "Whas' dat mommy?"
Alisa: "Oh, it's the prayer call."
Corey, pointing to the minaret: "It comes from up there."
Elsie with big eyes and mouth wide-open: "Ooh..."
Needless to say, Elsie became so used to the prayer calls that at one point joined in. :)

I loved the preparation the men took in before prayer. They removed their coats and shoes; and washed their face, hands, and feet prior to entering the mosque. Quite symbolic I think. I also loved watching mothers and fathers take their children in for worship. There are lots of things I feel I can learn from the Muslim people--dedication is only one of them.
Hopefully I can stay on top of this Turkey trot and give you more than just this little taste!

Thursday, May 19, 2011

It's Summer...

Did you know that summer actually started at least mid-April, if not earlier?! Kid you not, Elsie was out swimming with her neighbor friend, Grace the day before we left for our Easter Turkey Trip (no, it was not warmer there, by-the-way)!
Finally, the toys sleeping in the hutch woke from a long winter's nap to some gorgeous sunny days, and lived it up in the wild terrain.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Daffodil Picnic

From Post Cards 201

Just as spring was arriving here in England, fields of daffodils popped up through the grass--not just here and there, but everywhere! We were in heaven. So what did we do? We made a picnic or two out of it.

An Easter Hunt

Well, with this Post Service taking plenty of bank holidays for a last minute trip to Istanbul, a Royal Wedding, and good friend visits, we have quite a bit of catching up to do. :)

We'll kick it off with a fine Easter Hunt {which Elsie patiently waited for}.

Ready, "Steady" {as they say here}, Go!!

Can't go wrong with chocolate and jelly beans.

Spence scored pretty good with his couple of jelly beans and a grass salad.

Happy Easter everyone.

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Sweeties

What do these have in common?

They are all wonderful things surrounding me on Mother's Day! It was so beautiful for Mother's Day here in the UK to land on General Conference Weekend. After listening to inspired leaders' messages I am always uplifted and feel empowered to be a better wife, mother, and daughter. I think Sister Steven's talk was one that hit me the most when she said children, "come to families as precious gifts with a divine nature and destiny." The pansies are pretty, licorice lovely, but my children are the sweetest, most precious gifts in my life.
I certainly have had moments where I want to blow through the roof with frustration, toss my hands up in the air, and give up; but, having an understanding that they are each Heavenly Father's children with "divine nature and destiny" helps me to reach beyond myself and help them become who they were meant to be. Our children and their humility, obedience, and trust really are "a key" to helping us become like our Heavenly Father. Thank you Sweeties, for helping me be a better person.

Monday, April 4, 2011

Sneaky Spence

Just like that, Spencer is 6 months old! How can he sneak up six months! I'm telling you, this kid is full of surprises.

There's a song here in Woodbridge {which I thought was popular--guess only well-known to our group of library friends}: Zoom, zoom zoom, we're going to the moon. After you sing, "Zoom, zoom zoom; we'll get there very soon," you count down from 5 and lift up your little (or husky) babe, blasting him up to the moon like a rocket {at about "3" I prep myself for take-off}. This boy continues to eat and grow like a champion. This cute butter ball loves his toes and eats them whenever he can. Although he has two bottom teeth, I can never catch his smile on camera! One of these days..
Sixth months brought lots of hand-mouth coordination. This includes reaching for Elsie's hair whenever he has the chance {we see a tease in the making}.

Since the last few months have slipped by, we need some updates of Mr. Spencer. At five months, Spence was "blowing raspberries" and drooling like we've never seen. Not a huge fan of tummy time as it only lasted for about 5 minutes. He preferred sitting propped up with the Boppy and practically folding in half, reaching for his toes.

Besides discovering the back of his head and ears with his hands, four-months = need for real food for Spencer!

He was more than ready.

Oh, Spencer.

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Four-month Fancy

I love four months.

Sparkle in their eyes.

Connect and begin to take in the world {or their thumb}.

You know they're smiling at you.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Lucky

We were lucky to have some leprechauns make a surprise visit to our house early last Thursday morning! Thank you, leprechauns for sending lots of green for us to celebrate with! Elsie wasn't quite sure about the green milk at first, but once she knew the leprechauns turned it green, she wanted more!
I think these shamrock green bell pepper and egg will become tradition. :)

It's safe to say we each had at least two {okay, maybe three} bowls of the magic.

We leprechauns busied ourselves by making some rainbow cakes {derived from these delicious Rainbow Cupcakes} my friend and her little guy made .

The fact is, I only had a 6-muffin tin {meaning 3-4 rounds of baking} and making 6 smaller cakes seemed just right for our busy day. :)

What would the day be like without a hearty, Irish meal. Here's to Irish genes making perfect Irish Soda Bread. We chiseled through maybe a quarter of that hockey puck! Better luck next year. :)

Mischief written all over.

And we're lucky to have him.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

A Blessing

We blessed Spencer at three months and it was a good thing as he barely fit into his little white tux! He dramatically outweighed Elsie at three months and continues strong. There must be some Dutch-recessive in this little boy. His little collar didn't really have a neck to hug, so it became a piece of "tasty" silk for Spencer's little tongue to feel.

Spencer was blessed at our chapel in Ipswich surrounded by good friends who have become like family. We felt very fortunate our friends Poppy and Johan could be there.

Spencer's blessing day couldn't have been more beautiful. A snowstorm passed through the night before, leaving the ground dressed in white for his blessing day. The drive to church under the umbrella of snow-covered trees and view of untouched pastures was absolutely breath-taking.