Parker Place

My girls

2012-01-25T14:15:00.001-07:00

It is no secret that I have two beautiful girls (yep, I am partial they are mine what do you expect) and they are getting to an age where they don't need or want my help with many things. The latest is my youngest daughter not needing or wanting help fixing her hair. It is kinda a tough one for me. My older girl went through this a few years back and I would look at her hair as she would tromp off to school looking like she just woke up or forgot how to brush her hair. I would just shake my head and send her off to school. She was SO proud over doing her own hair I didn't have the heart to say how I thought it looked. Fast forward 3 years or so, and now my younger one is showing her independence. Makes me a little sad and proud at the same time.

So when both girls asked me last night to try two different no heat curls that they would sleep in and hopefully wake up with curly hair, I jumped at the chance. Did they end up going to bed later than their bedtimes because of it? Yes Was it worth it? Yes.

Tay front view

both girls, back view

When they got up this morning and we let the curls down, they both were very excited and even let me "fix" their hair for school this morning. One happy momma and two happy girls.


After they got up, surprised it still looked this good!

back view

front view

The Harry Potter Party

2012-01-24T22:57:00.002-07:00

glitter and stars for wands

wands before being decorated

edible candy wands

the wizard hat cupcakes

Ben had his friend party a couple of weeks ago. He invited 8 kids. Never do I remember all kids coming that were invited, so this was a first, and having 9 seven year old boys running around was frankly tiring :).

watching Harry Potter

special wizard drinks

Pizza time

The kids were greeted by the first Harry Potter movie The Sorcerer Stone when they arrived. After everyone arrived we had each boy decorate a small notebook labeled as their field journal. After that they had pizza and their fortune told by the color their drinks turned. The boys thought it was quite magical seeing their drinks turn a special color for each of them.

decorated notebooks

Next we broke into two groups. One group when on a search and find of different types of "critters" than can be found in a Harry Potter movie/book.

The second group got a chance to make their own magic wands and decorate them with glitter and stars. After about 10 or so minutes the groups rotated so each got to do both activities.

wand making

trying to blow out a sparkler :)

We couldn't believe how quickly time was flying so we decided Ben should open his presents. So as Ben was opening his gifts his dad (what an awesome man), cleaned up the kitchen so they would have a glitter and glue place to sit and enjoy a cupcake.

wands and cupcakes for all

The party was great and went quickly, didn't have as much time as we thought we would have to do all that was planned, but I think the boys all left happy and with full bellies.

spoiled again :)

Slithering cake

2012-01-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

This year Ben had a hard time thinking of a theme for his birthday. He really loves reptiles and also Harry Potter, so we compromised. A snake cake for his family birthday and he will have a Harry Potter party this weekend with his friends (post and pictures to follow). Thanks to all those who were able to come and celebrate with us.

Ben's world of loosing teeth

2012-01-02T12:50:00.001-07:00

I have an almost seven year old boy who has only once lost a tooth in what would be considered the "correct" way. Last year when he was in Kindergarten he lost his first tooth. Now being a mom of four this isn't my first time around the block with loose teeth, so when he came home from school that particular day and said he had a loose tooth I was excited for him, but knew it could still be awhile before the said tooth actually came out. Little did I know that while he was eating his PB&J sandwich that day that silly little tooth was going to pop itself right out.

showing his teeny tooth


New smile

The next tooth he lost was quite a few months later. I can't remember for sure if he had even mentioned a loose tooth this time. He went outside to jump on the tramp with two of his siblings. A few minutes later he came back inside and said he knocked out a tooth. Low and behold he did. As he was jumping he did a "butt slam" and his knee came back and hit him in the face and out came tooth number two.

Tooth number three came out while eating breakfast one morning.

Tooth number four came out on Thanksgiving, after dinner, while wrestling with his much older brother. As the boys were wrestling, my oldest son accidentally elbowed Ben in the face causing his tooth to fall out.

The next tooth came out while Ben was eating a Starburst, and this one got half eaten. With all the teeth he has lost while eating, this was the first casualty. Ben doesn't like anyone to touch his wiggly teeth, I think because he thinks we will pull them out. However, I don't do teeth... but do like to have an "idea" when the next may pop out.

The last tooth he has lost he was playing on our bed, and so I starting tickling him. He bounced up and my hand hit his face and loosing his tooth more. It was a little bloody and was bent at a odd angle and so I told him this tooth needed to come out. He was more upset over having a tooth pulled than getting hit in the mouth. He screamed and fought the minute it was mentioned all the way until after the tooth was actually out and we held the tooth in front of his face to show that it was out and he could stop screaming.

He is a very funny kid, who doesn't realize when a tooth is actually super loose and doesn't think to mention when he has loose tooth. Which make us wonder when and how the next one will be lost.

Pink, Black and White part 2

2011-12-18T23:48:00.000-07:00

The birthday cake

birthday girl blowing out the candles

The second day celebrating T's birthday. This was her family party.

Cookies and cupcakes

some treats


a new headband

equals one spoiled girl <3

The Pink, Black and White party

2011-12-18T22:47:00.000-07:00

The invitation

Homemade treats, well mostly...

Few of the pom-poms I made..

Who doesn't love white chocolate dipped Oreos on a stick?

Rock candy Suckers I found at a local candy store

Pink bubble gum and white candy stars

Homemade white chocolate dipped strawberry marshmallows and chocolate dipped regular marshmallows.

Gifts bags, bought before T had chosen a color theme for her birthday this year. Made the letter tags (first initial of each girl attending) from wood, scrapbook paper that I modge podged on.

Homemade cupcakes, to resemble flowers

Packet of necklace making gear

besides making necklaces they also made bracelets

T's necklace and place setting

The table ready for the girls to come eat and enjoy!

Venting

2011-08-25T23:45:00.001-06:00

Do you remember back when you were in school and there was always that mean nasty kid that you would see always be picking on someone (possibly you even) making them feel just awful? And have you ever wondered, after you grew up, what ever happen to this person? Did they "mellow out" and see the error in their ways? Did they ever feel guilty for all the hurt they caused? Or did they become more malicious, full of lies, out to hurt and cause more pain to innocent people who happened to cross their path?
I personally am fascinated by the 'true crime' type shows that are frequently shown on channels like ID and TRU as well as features on Dateline or even Primetime live. My explanation for my fascination with these shows are trying to figure what make these people 'tick'. I don't get how people do the things they do and I am always trying to figure why they feel the need to act the way have chosen and what made them choose to do the horrid things they do to others.
I have come to the conclusion, most of the time it cannot be explained. Some people are just pure evil and even some of them can really put on a good act, making people around them that they are the innocent, etc. These people have NO regard for truth or for other people. They care only for themselves an really not much else.
Case in point: A father who hasn't seen his kids much in the past 11 years (give or take). He wants to see his kids and has made many attempts but his ex-wife refuses to let him see them. At one time she did 'kind of' see the kids but only if she was there and the whole time she would scream at him, when all he wanted is to spend some quality time with his kids, then suddenly these 'allowed' visits stop.When he pushes the issue, as in shows up for court appointed visits anyway, the ex has him arrested because she claims she is fearful for her life, never mind he is only walking up the front walk and has yet to even do or say a thing. She also starts making these claims that the children are handicap, and all because of their father. She gets doctors to medicate the children, all the while no one is questioning her or her motives. She can go along making all these claims, and have no proof to back them up. She could quite possibly have Munchausen by proxy syndrome. She shows the signs and symptoms of this mental illness. How does no one else see this, you ask? I have no clue, no clue at all. As these children get older they start asking about their dad, then one of the restraining orders the the ex wife has out on the father, expires. They go to court she actually chooses to let the restraining order expire. She even agrees to let the father see his kids. He is excited, to get the chance. He and his 'new' wife go and see the kids. The ex-wife still not letting them see the kids without her, but allows the visit. Father and children has a fantastic time. The father is beaming and is promised by the ex he can see them again in two weeks. She then cancels, but says in another week or so he can see the boys again. They set up skype so they can talk. Father and 'new' wife are happy. Children are happy. Ex lets the boys see their dad again, this time she actually says that he can keep them for two nights. Father and 'new' wife happy. Kids happy. Father's family a little apprehensive, knowing the ex-wife, hoping for the best by expecting the worse.
Visit seemed to go without a hitch. They camped, hiked and got to know each other. They bring the boys back to their mother on time. All seemed well...Then the first bomb...
Ex decides to not allow father to see the children, because since they have seen him they seem to not be minding her anymore. She tells the father she is no longer going to allow visits until the children are 25 (ummm, don't think she can really do that). She files a retraining order that lists the reason that the children won't listen to her since their overnight visit. It is denied! Big surprise (insert sarcasm). She then refiles saying the father was inappropriate the children. And claims he did it more to the older child because that child is more handicap. This father would rather cut off his own arms that hurt a child in anyway. But she is believed. It goes to court, she has coached the kids into what to say. Father, 'new'wife and families of both are sickened by the allegations. For now the case is undecided. The father gets to have supervised visits, while it gets investigated more.
This is one case where it needs to be ruled in favor for the father. This so-called mother needs to be stopped from making false statements and making the lives of her children, their father and other a living hell.
Once again, this is sometimes what these mean kids turn into, just 'meaner' adults.

Getting healthier

2011-05-23T10:51:00.000-06:00

So I have been giving a lot of thought to getting healthier. Admittedly I have let myself "slide" quite a bit and not that I am one who ever cares what I actually weigh (in fact I don't even own a scale!), I have finally reached a point where I am ready to make a commitment to myself to be healthier, feel healthier and look healthier. This doesn't meant I am "giving up" all the so called "good things in life", like my favorite: Pepsi and Dove Dark chocolate any variety or a Snickers now and again, though honestly the only thing I have a bit regularly in there is the Pepsi. I have already cut my Pepsi intake to one 12oz can (or bottle) every other day, and now getting to the point where I rarely even finish that one can. The goal is to only drink it occasionally (like I said I am not giving up on my favorites, just going to have them on special occasions or as a "treat" every so often but no longer daily or every other day).
Also with this challenge I have made with myself (a extremely good friend and I are doing this together to help each other along the way), I am committed to drink a green smoothie daily. These smoothies are all natural with fresh and fresh frozen ingredients.Today was my first attempt at making one and it wasn't to bad. Honestly, I was kinda "put off" by the green color of green smoothies. I am a very visual person and if something looks, well not right I am 99% sure I will NOT try it. So green drinks...well...enough said.
Over the weekend I went out and bought a new blender, I got a KitchenAid, but if you look online the Blendtec and Vitamix seems what is most recommended to make your smoothie have the consistency of smoothie shops. Now I am sure these are wonderful blenders, let me assure you the KitchenAid that I bought worked perfectly and the consistency of my smoothie was like one found at Jamba, and with one-forth the cost of the "recommended" blenders, I couldn't be happier!
Todays smoothie consisted of spinach, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries and three-fourths of a pear for sweetness. I was pleasantly surprised that my smoothie was reddish-purple in color! Now, it did have a slight taste of spinach but it wasn't overwhelming and was pretty good. I am planning on going to the store again tonight and "stalk" the vegetable and fruit isles to get more mixture ideas and hopefully find some perfect combinations for me.

dedicated to baby AJ

2011-05-02T23:04:00.001-06:00

This is my friends sweet baby boy who passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday April 27. A very sad time for all of us who knew him and know this sweet family. For anyone who is able to help this family, no matter how big or small, there is a memorial fund set up under AJ's name at Wells Fargo Bank.


Acea Jack Robison
Born on Jan. 31, 2011 Departed on Apr. 27, 2011 and resided in Layton, UT.

Visitation:	Monday, May 2, 2011
Service:	Monday, May 2, 2011
Cemetery:	Hooper Cemetery

" AJ " Acea Jack Robison
Named After My Grandpas " My Heros" – Other than my Dad.
Layton, UT - Acea Jack Robison passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday April, 27, 2011. He was born on January 31, 2011 to Paul E. and July Hurd Robison in Ogden, Utah.
His smile was contagious, and would grow bigger and Bigger. He would always make everyone smile along with him. He'd smile from one side to the other showing his darling dimples. He was played with and very well cared for by his sisters. He was a strong boy, and the light of his parent's life. We all love and will miss him very much.
AJ is survived by his parents; sisters, Romalyn, Madalyn, Annalyn, Ceralyn; grandparents, Acea H. and Clara Robison, Jack and Maria Hurd, Thomas and DeAnn Kemp; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Funeral Services will be held Monday, May 2, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Chelsea Park 1st Ward, 2800 West Gordon Ave. Layton, UT.
Donations can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank for AJ Robison Memorial Fund.

As I pull my kids closer and hug them tighter, over the last few days I am relieved to know that families can be together forever and so thankful for the atonement. That though this all people will be resurrected, and for those who obey the gospel will receive the gift of eternal life with God.

Accident Prone

2011-04-16T16:15:00.002-06:00

I have a 8 year old daughter, Taylor who is accident prone. I swear there isn't a day that goes by that she hasn't gotten hurt one way or another. Today there were two culprits.

To begin with I need to set the stage of today. My parents are out of town for the weekend and needed someone to come in and feed their cats. Usually they ask my brother but as luck who have it, he and his wife were going out of town for the weekend as well. So as I was talking to my mom the other day and asking if she would be able to come to my next eye treatment and she mentioned the problem of the cats. She asked if we would be willing to come and feed them if we were going to be coming into town. We did have a few errands in town so we could help out. We went to their house and the kids were already fighting over who gets to feed the cats (we have a cat too and no one fights over who is going to feed him, more like who isn't going to..). We assign Taylor to get their newspaper, and Katie and Taylor to get the mail, if any. Katie and Taylor walk to the mail box. When they get there Taylor apparently stands to close and as Katie pulls open the box it smacks Taylor on her forehead. Culprit #1: mailbox door=Injury #1.

Later, we get home and the kids are doing their housework, they want to play video games so they are actually doing this without much complaint. One of Taylors chores is to clean off and organize the coffee table in our TV room. She gets everything off the table and asks Ethan to get her the cleaner. Culprit #2: a bottle of Pledge furniture polish.

Ethan tries to get the polish and it slips from his hand and of all places it lands on Taylors foot. She is in tears on the floor. Ethan feels terrible. John picks up Taylor and carries her to the couch telling her she will be fine. Taylor takes off her sock and reveals a nasty gash in her big toe. It is bleeding, has a "beautiful" purple bump/bruise. Thankfully, she can bend it, it finally stopped bleeding now all bandaged with neosporin. Along with a dose of childrens Tylenol and an icepack to help the swelling, and all we can say is, " Only Taylor, only Taylor" while shaking our heads. Tomorrow is another day and with her, we are just waiting to see what new "injury" is yet to come...

My eye, an update

2011-03-18T22:11:00.000-06:00

My eye is still the same, there is no actual cure, and is quite serious, I will most likely always be in care of a retinal specialist as well my ophthalmologist. I still am "missing" some vision in my right eye (though my vision has gotten better, there is still a blockage in my vision) and hopeful it will all come back, but at this time there still is no guarantee. As for my shots I have had two so far and will definitely be having a least one more which is scheduled for April. The medicine that is injected, is doing what it needs to be doing and the hemorrhage seems to be reducing in size, but it is still there. Though the medicine it self is relatively harmless, each time I am injected it is increasing my chances for an eye infection since the needle leaves a hole in my eye and takes time to heal up. My retinal specialist, Dr. Brinton, is hoping to only do one more shot, because he is worried about me getting an infection. As for now it will be taken each visit one at a time and doing whatever Dr. Brinton deems necessary. There is still a chance of laser treatments as well as more shots (but like I said that can only be determined when I am at one of my appointments), but that is if my body tries to "heal" it self by producing new vessels to replace the blocked one. These new vessels would be weak and cause more blood leakage, hence the reason for the laser treatment.

As for the cause or why it happen it is still up in the air. I have had 8 vials of blood taken and each test has came up negative. Though that sounds great that they can't find something, makes us worry about what is causing this and what tests to run next. I have had both a fasting test as well not fasting, even some genetic testing. So basically that is where it stands at this time, dealing with a vision blockage, no idea how or why it happened, will never be cured just treated for the rest of my life, otherwise I very well could go blind in that eye as well since I have had this in one eye there is an 80% chance of getting it in the other, which frightens me, but I try not to dwell on it. I also have learned to put on a pretty good act/brave face about not worrying, and down playing the seriousness this actually is. Now you know my "secret act" you'll probably be able to see through it, but that is okay, it is probably better if someone other than John knows the "real" seriousness of this and the "real" concerns we have as well as the doctors. Now I must go back and put on my brave face....

What March means to me

2011-03-02T12:27:00.001-07:00

I can hardly believe it is already March! We are now in the third month of the year and for me that mean my oldest will be an official teenager. Makes me question "Am I old enough to have a teenager?" Answer, "unfortunately yes". Dang it! :) But then I remember there are people my age and younger who have kids older and even have become grandparents somewhat recently, and honestly that make me feel better if not younger than what I am. Another event in March is St. Patrick's Day, now I know it isn't much of a holiday or one of "big celebrations" but we always have a mischievous leprechaun who comes and makes a big mess, but with the mess he leaves some "gold" for the kids. Wonder what he has in store this year for us and if the kids trap they set out will finally catch the rascally leprechaun.... And finally the best part of the month SPRING!!! How can I stress enough how much I am more than ready for spring? Green grass, flowers starting to bloom, the trees starting to bud there leaves, warm days with cool nights and the best part? The kids will play OUTSIDE more and get those wiggles out! I absolutely love Spring and all it represents and brings, and for me it signifies new beginnings! Definitely my favorite time of the year.

Ben's first tooth lost

2011-02-25T17:09:00.000-07:00

Ben lost his first tooth yesterday. It took me by complete surprise. He came home from school and said. Mommy I haven't lost a tooth yet, but I think I have one that is a little loose that I found today. Well, being this was the first time he has mentioned a tooth being loose, I though I would check it later because most likely it will take a few days to a few weeks before it actually came out. So, I preceded to make lunch and as he was eating his PB&J out popped that rascally tooth. He was SO excited!!!! All he could talk about the rest of the day was how it came out and how the tooth fairy was going to come. The funniest thing is, this morning he had forgotten all about it and I to remind him to look under his pillow for his "treasure". He received two dollars from the tooth fairy, since it was his first tooth and all. Ahhh! I have one excited ~~little~~ big boy.

Retinal Hemorrhage

2011-02-10T23:24:00.003-07:00

So, I have a retinal hemorrhage in my right eye. No clue how this happened and there is no actual cure, but there is treatment which I started this past Tuesday. One of the many tests I had was a fluorescein angiography a procedure that takes special photographs of your eye, in order to further investigate the blood vessels in my eye, which showed the hemorrhage.

From here I will need injections in my eye. The injection is a medicine called Avastin. It lasts one month in my eye, then I return for another. I don't know how many I will need of these (hopefully, not to many), then eventually I may need some laser treatments. I am a bit nervous about all this but the alternative is possibly blindness in the eye, so I will take the discomfort of the injections.

Tuesday was my first injection and to say that it was painful, is a HUGE understatement. I was told that it would just feel like pressure in my eye, boy were they ever wrong! They did put numbing drops in, and either they don't numb it enough or they didn't let it sit long enough. From there they put a wire thing in my eye to keep it open and then the shot immediately after. I was asked later how my eye felt and the best I could say is that my eye felt as if I had shards of glass in it. Now a couple of days later my eye is feeling better, though a bit tender still. Next appointment is set for March 10. I told the doctor they should give me a RX for Valium since I had no clue how I will be able to sit still for the next shot. I think they thought I was joking...

Loking for a Photography class?

2011-01-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

My friend Heather has her own photography class and she is offering two different classes to help those who need help learning or expanding knowledge of their SLR camera's. The classes are mainly for beginners I believe, as in if you had just bought a SLR camera as well as for those of us who have had one for a while but keep it in "auto" mode to make it "simpler". Anyway, you will learn so many things about your camera as well as some photography "secrets"to make your photo's POP! Check out her blog for more information: heathercluffphotography.blogspot.com or her friends website: michellenuttall.com

Mid January, already?

2011-01-14T23:06:00.000-07:00

I know I have said it many many times in the past that time passes SO quickly, but it amazing me so much by how it really does. It is now the middle of January. Ben turned six a week ago (6? really? I swear he is still teeny!), and the end of the term, which marks the halfway point of the school year was today. Just amazing, truly! I wish we could catch time in a bottle or find a way to slow things down more so we can enjoy the here and now more. So, I guess I need to stop wishing winter and the snow away and try to enjoy it (?). Snow fight anyone?

January

2011-01-04T21:11:00.003-07:00

I can hardly believe that it is already January! The end of the school term/ semester is coming to an end next week and then we will be at the mid point of the school year. So far the kids are all doing great in their studies, which is a far cry from the first term of the year for Ethan. He has proven that he can "do" seventh grade and has really stepped up and taking control. He is a great student and is showing excellence in art and in theater. Man, that kid can draw and loves to act. I get complemented a lot over what a great kid he is and how funny he can be. SEP conferences a few weeks back were great. It was SO awesome to hear each teacher talk and faces light up about how great he is and how they love having him their classes. Makes me a proud momma. Katie is speeding along in 5th grade. Is is above average in almost all her studies. She is one smart cookie! She loves school and her teacher is wonderful! She did go through a semi-tough time recentlyShe also is still taking dance and has proven to be a great little dancer! Saying she loves to dance is a huge understatement! Ben is plugging along in kindergarten. He really is enjoying his teacher, making new friends and his new love reading on his own. It is SO great to have each of my kids reading and loving it (like me). Ben also enjoys drawing. He draws the greatest pictures! He too had his best friend move away (same family as Katies friend). The hardest part with him is that he doesn't get to see him like Katie does her friend, plus explaining divorce to an almost 6 year old proved difficult. He too cried, but mostly because he was afraid that we would too since his friend did. WOW! What a difficult subject matter to keep on his level and reassuring him that we are fine and Mommy and Daddy love him and his siblings very much as well as each other. when her best friends parents divorced and her friend moved away from our neighborhood. There were a lot of tears on both parts, but luckily they are still in the same school (for now anyway). Katie also has lots of interest in crocheting and sewing, in fact she got a sewing machine for Christmas. Taylor is also doing awesome in school. She is a quick learner and also has tested above grade level, at least in reading. She too has a great teacher who is very attentive.She also is showing a great skill for drawing and designing. She is always doodling something or designing clothes.

John and I are doing great. John had a great scare with a blood clot in his leg. This clot is SO big that it runs more than half of his leg. For now he is under doctors care and using blood thinners to regulate it. He will be under care for 6 months. Since he rarely gets sick I had to ask him (jokingly of course) if he had to do this for attention, and if so there were much betters ways. I love that I can joke with him, which was about the only way I could deal with the stress of it all.

I am doing a small daycare at my house and currently watching 5 kids, the oldest being 5 and the youngest is almost one. I am enjoying them, but it is also exhausting and I wouldn't change a thing. So that is pretty much an update on us.

School Halloween Party

2010-10-29T16:01:00.000-06:00

For the first time since we have lived here the elementary school has allowed the kids to dress up to celebrate Halloween at school. So being the first time, I decided I would volunteer. Now with three kids in elementary school, I could only choose one. This year I went to help in Taylor's class. It started out really nice, then suddenly the fire alarm went off. This was completely unplanned. So all the kids gathered outside, a head count was taken, then we were let back in to be told that we need to evacuate the building again, because they couldn't figure out why the fire alarm went off and why it wouldn't reset. So we gathered outside again and did a new head count, after a few minutes they let us back into the building only to tell the teachers to have all the kids gather up their things and send them home for the day (about 5 minutes early by this point), they also said to evaluate the building as quickly as possible. So that ended their Halloween parties.... The kids were a bit upset and explained what crappy Halloween party they all had. I did get three pictures, I think... I'll post them later.

First Term ending

2010-10-27T17:37:00.000-06:00

It has seemed that this school year is already going so fast. Tomorrow the first term ends and on Monday a fresh start for all begins again with term two. Hopefully term two will be better than the first term with Ethan. He has adjusted pretty well with junior high, but it has taken most of the term to get his bearings completely down (like the whole A/B class schedule) as well as what each teacher expects. He is doing better and starting to rise to his potential, and has plenty of room for improvement. Fingers crossed that it will be better!
I can't believe it is already Halloween time! The kids are excited, this year the elementary is actually allowing the kids to dress up (in the 8 years we have lived here, this is a first). I will hopefully remember post pictures this year, not like last year.
After Halloween, our "busy time" begins. Thanksgiving time (yum, yum, yum!), my favorite! Then Taylors baptism and then Christmas, whew!! That doesn't include the up coming Thanksgiving get togethers and Christmas parties. I'm thinking I should go out and get my Christmas shopping done very, very soon....

My DON'T CARE LIGHT

2010-10-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

So, you hear all the time how when someone gets an idea or even when something someone has struggled with finally clicks, that it is like a light had finally turned on. This light is usually expressed as light bulb above ones head. Well, I have one of those, but my is referred to as the DON'T CARE LIGHT. It is always there, but not always on.
Yesterday for example, I got a call from the Jr High that my son was in the sick room (this was 20 minutes before school got out, by the way). I was out doing some much needed errands and just decided I honestly couldn't get myself to care (mind you he wasn't barfing, bleeding, dying nor did he have a broken bone which are the basic rules for me to come pick up a kid early). When I did show up, school was getting out, the office didn't seem impressed with my explanation of my "don't care light" when he isn't heaving and that it was so close to the end of the day.... Maybe I should have kept my don't care light to myself...

*BTW Point- He wasn't really sick, no fever. In his slight defense he said his throat hurt but, as he was in his last class of the day his teacher asked if he was okay and he said he thought he had strep throat (he does not, and never has) so she immediately sent him down to the office. He said his teacher said he had strep, I laughed at this and explained to him that just by looking at someone you cannot tell they have strep (no one looked in his mouth, though I do realize that most time you need a throat culture to actually determine if you have it). I also tried to explain to him about self diagnosing as well as throwing around sickness' that haven't been determined by a medical professional. During this Ben was blowing bubbles with his spit (nasty I know) and had bubbly spit around his lips (ick), so I self diagnosed that Ben has rabies to point out how silly it all was. Needless to say Ethan didn't find or see the humor. Ahhh.. the joys of a tween....

Yep, we are still alive and kicking

2010-10-03T21:42:00.000-06:00

I realized today that I haven't blogged in quite awhile. Yes, we are still alive, just our blog had been dead. We have been busy busy busy since school has started. I thought that once it started life would slow down a bit but instead it has been kicked in high gear. With a seventh grader who is adjusting to junior high (starting to look better and hoping it will continue), a fifth grader, a second grader, a kindergartner, dance, scouts, activity days, two part-time style jobs and being on the ward activity committee, at times I feel like I haven't anytime to relax let alone breathe.... So, if you don't hear or see anything from me it is mainly because I am very busy and when I do get a little down time I am just to pooped out. :)

First day of school

2010-09-02T11:20:00.000-06:00

I finally put the pictures from the first day of school on my computer. I didn't get any of Ethan this year as he was leaving for school as soon as the rest of the kids were getting just getting up and getting ready. Then by after school I never thought about it. Oh well!


Taylor

Katie


Bennett

all dressed and ready to go

Ben and his teacher

Taylor at her desk

Taylor and her teacher

Katie at her desk

Katie and her teacher

Ben

working on a family tree

Ben all ready for his real first of school

Ben at his table

Ben all ready to get to work

Teeth

2010-08-18T18:13:00.000-06:00

As I have mentioned before, Katie was blessed or cursed with a small mouth depending on how you want to look at it. Because of that, a week ago she had to get 6 teeth removed (was 7 but one came out on its own).

before

teeth to be removed


Her "funky" feet

getting her mouth all numb and getting some "laughing" gas to calm her nerves

removing teeth


all done, check out all the gauze in her mouth


mouth still numb, she is trying to frown but only has feeling in one side

all those missing teeth

new smile (sorta)

six teeth for the tooth fairy

The next step is what is called pre-braces. These braces will consist of four braces for her top front teeth. These braces will push one of her front teeth back into the right position. She may only need them for up to 6 months and later she will get a full set of braces as well as more teeth may need to be removed.

Don't let Paypal fool you too

2010-08-11T15:41:00.001-06:00

I have been known to use Paypal every once in a while, never had a problem and always felt safe and secure. John has also been known to use Paypal to pay for guitar parts and the like. He too has never had a problem with them and felt it was a safe and secure way to pay and even started his own Paypal account for a way for people to pay for their guitars or other merchandise they purchase through his web page. So to say we were blindsided is an understatement. We recently used Paypal to pay for a reunion we were attending, funny thing though I was worried paying that way from the start but like I have said we both had used it in the past without incident so I brushed it off as unfounded jidders. Last night I went to use the same card, that we had used to pay for the reunion, to purchase a small amount of school supplies. Well, the purchase obviously didn't go through. I was confused but both the cashier and I thought, "well, maybe there is a glitch in their system". So we ran it again with the same result. Still confused and now getting worried, I pulled out another card and was able to complete my transaction. I kept going over in my mind "when was the last time we used this card?", then I remembered we used it for the reunion using Paypal. My next thought was "but Paypal is safe, I have used it before" immediately followed by "but I don't recall using it since". I voiced the part about using Paypal recently, to the cashier. She quickly stated her last experience with Paypal and how that somehow they (Paypal) had kept her number, using it repeatedly until her account was was drained of funds without her knowing until she to went to use her card and it was declined. She told me that she was fooled with Paypal being a safe and secure way to pay online too, until what had happened to her. Honestly, I couldn't get out of that store fast enough to get home and check my account. Once home, I immediately got online and checked and she was 100% correct in what happened. I was shocked, mad, upset and felt lost. I told John, man when you can get a rise out of him he really can get angry, he was extremely mad to say the least. By then I was livid. John tried to call Paypal, but was referred to a website instead. There he was able to file a complaint, but who know what if anything will come of it. I on the other hand called the emergency number on the back of my card (while he was trying to contact paypal). I talked to really nice guy who then need me to talk to there security/fraud department, who was just as nice. By then my head was pounding, thought I was going to throw up and was shaking too. My account has now been closed, new cards will be issued with new account numbers. They will reverse those charges and will be sending out paper work for me to fill out to further their investigations. So I am relieved that we were able take care of it so quickly, but still sickened that this happened. However, lesson learned. There really is no safe online way to pay, regardless of what the company may claim. Check your statements regularly (which I do, but this wouldn't have showed up until next months statement). I for one will not be using Paypal again and more than likely I will not be buying online, even if it seems more convenient, and I will keep my purchases local and in person and with cash when I am carrying any.

Wild weekend of dancing and connecting with "old" friends

2010-08-02T17:04:00.000-06:00

This past weekend was spent mostly catching up with a good friend that I hadn't seen in 20 years. She flew in from Florida mostly to attend a reunion of a dance club we frequented, practically every Saturday, in the late 80's. On Friday night we met for dinner at the Pie Pizzeria in South Jordan. The Pie holds many many memories for us. After we would go dancing we would more than likely end up at the Pie near the U of U, at that time there were only two locations one near the U and the other in Ogden. After "our" reunion at the pie we went to an art gallery opening near the U. Most of the art work was made from glass. Some was very beautiful and very original, others were..well, not so much. It was a very small gallery so it didn't take much time to walk through. So, our actual dance club reunion wasn't until Saturday night, but there was a pre-party Friday night at the dance club Area 51 in downtown SL. After the art gallery, we had about a hour to "kill" before Area 51 opened. So we went over to the Pie near the U for a soda and talk. It was really nice, though we had a good laugh over the fact we had visited two Pies in one night. From there we went to Area 51. Because we were there for the pre-party we were able to get in for free. They had a dance floor dedicated to the pre-party and played mostly the music we would have danced to back in the day. The music was loud and thumping, in fact sometimes it felt as though the beat was pounding through my chest. Other than Emily, my friend from Florida, I only knew one other person there who I had gone to high school with. We danced until the wee hours of the morning. It was fun and tiring. I was faltered by a few people who thought I was younger than what I really am, though one was actually mad at me when she found that I was older than her, yet looked younger. Makes me giggle now though.
Saturday I woke up very tired and very surprised I wasn't stiff from dancing so much. I relaxed most of the day so that I would be able to dance that night at the reunion. The reunion was held at the Depot in SL. John came with me and we met up with Emily and her friends there. Not long after the reunion started, more and more people showed up and more friends that I hadn't seen in about 20 years. It was a lot of fun! Lots of dancing, mingling, and reminiscing. The music played was exactly what we danced to at the Ritz Club. It was wonderful, and we danced again until the wee hours of the morning and didn't get home until much later.
Come Sunday morning we were SO exhausted, John from being up so late and me from the same plus from dancing. My legs and knees are so stiff, which reminded me of how old I am getting, even if I do look younger than what I am.

Welcome to Junior High

2010-07-29T22:56:00.000-06:00

So, it is no secret that my oldest is heading off to Junior this year (am I really that old that I can have a junior high school student?) and with junior high comes with the fees, no more "free" education. I tried to download the school fees, but for whatever reason I couldn't get it to work correctly, so off to the school I went. The fees were kinda what I was expecting to pay, however I hadn't realized that not only does the school have fees but so dose the district. I found it strange, mainly because it looks like you are paying twice for the same thing. I also hadn't realized that you purchase P.E clothes through the school, which does make a little sense. Fees need to be paid by next week so that we can get Ethans class schedule. Then he has another orientation in the coming weeks and then school will start and we can get the class fees (like art class, etc. that requires a separate fee). Welcome to Junior High....leave your cash, checks or other method of payment at the door...... haahaaa

Already time to think of school?

2010-07-19T17:40:00.002-06:00

Today we got one of "those automated" phone calls from the Junior High, to remind parents to make sure they have turned in an updated immunization record for the coming school year, because they will only be sending out schedules to those who have, as well as the up coming events and when the school fees are due. Now, of course I am "one of those" parents who hadn't given them Ethan's updated record, however I could at least say I did go get his booster shots. So, we hurried over to the school, because I knew that by tomorrow I would forget again about turning it in. Starting next Monday the fee schedule will be released, the following week another orientation will be coming up. I still can't decide if I am ready for my oldest to go into junior high and my youngest to be going to kindergarten, but it is coming and coming quick....

The joys of a little mouth...

2010-07-15T13:39:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I took Ethan and Katie to the dentist for their 6 month check up. NO cavities! Yea! Katie has only had one in the past and Ethan hasn't ever had one. So even though there are no cavities to report, Miss Katie has such a small mouth that the dentist wanted initially put in a space retainer in her mouth. He asked if I had taken her to an orthodontist before. I had and told him about him wanting her three canine teeth removed (the fourth never grew in). So he said he would call her orthodontist and talk to him about a retainer. After speaking with him they had come to the conclusion that they needed to remove 4 more teeth, besides the canine ones. They want this done the sooner the better, I was told. So, now to figure how to accomplish this. Katie is really upset and insists she won't have anymore teeth left. I tried to calm her down, by telling her that they know what they are doing and they wouldn't remove teeth if it was unnecessary.

Katie turns 10

2010-06-29T11:04:00.005-06:00

Katie turned 10 last Wednesday, and I can hardly believe it. She was born June 23 at Jordan Valley Hospital weighing 6 Lb 9 oz and was 18" in length. She is now about 50 pounds and close to 4 feet 5 inches (give or take). Katie has always been our spitfire, and still is. If she doesn't want to do something, she simply won't. As annoying as that can be at times I think it can be a benefit to her as she gets older (ie.peer pressure).
On her birthday Katie choose to go to a day camp with her activity days group. They went up to Camp Keisel, which is where the cub scouts always have day camp. They had to meet at 6:50am and returned home around 4pm. At the camp,she got to shoot a bb gun, did archery as well as other activities. She seemed to really enjoy herself. Later that night we gave her her birthday presents. I found it is difficult to buy for a 10 year old, they are kinda in an in-between stage. I think she enjoyed her presents, although I didn't get her a sewing machine that she wanted (maybe for Christmas).
We usually take the kids out to dinner for their birthday, their choice. This year because of day camp and Ethan having scouts on Katies birthday we decided we would go Friday night.
On Friday Katie choose Red Robin to eat at. What was suppose to be a "family" thing ended up to be her, Ben, her friend Lexi and me that went. Ethan went with his friend swimming and didn't want to come home, Taylor had a stomach ache all day so John stayed home with her. It was strange without every one, but still nice.
On Saturday Katie had her friend birthday party. We had it in our backyard and did a beach theme. We filled at least 150 water balloons, had a slip and slide, a pool (smallish) and water blasters. We had a hoola hoop competition and a water balloon toss (like an egg toss). Then they had a water balloon fight and they really loved chasing John and Ethan. To make it more interesting we added in the water blasters. It was SO fun watching they girls as they planned to attack Ethan and John and saying it was girls against boys (obviously the girls had the advantage). As the sun began to set, Katie opened presents and had cake (Katie wanted a cake that looked like flip flops,that was a semi-challenge to make). Then we set up the projector, the kids changed their clothes, and they watched a movie on the side of the house. Katie said it was her best birthday yet (whew!).

Preschool Graduation

2010-05-27T09:50:00.004-06:00

Ben during his program

Last night my "baby" graduated from preschool. This is the end of an era for us, no more babies no more toddlers or preschool. It is bittersweet. I love that Ben is so independent and can do SO much for himself, though I must admit at times I wish he would still let me baby him even for just a couple of minutes. However, even though he will soon make the transition into kindergarten, he still is a momma's boy and I am going to "milk" it for as long as I can! We will still have our evening cuddling and his want of me to be the one who puts him bed each night and the "little" fight of letting daddy put him to bed or even to let dad cuddle him (which I secretly LOVE). So congratulations my little man and here's to the next stage in your life.

It is official, no more preschool

JUST DANCE by Murray Community Dance

2010-05-13T11:21:00.008-06:00

A couple of weeks ago Taylor had her dance performance. This years show was titled 'Just Dance. Taylors class danced to Kermit the Frogs "Happy Feet". Boy did they ever have some happy feet! It was a great dance and the girls did wonderfully.

Katie took the video with her camera, so it is a bit grainy, bumpy and a bit out of focus.

Mikenzie (in front) dancing to Just dance

A couple of Taylors cousins, as well as her Uncle Sam who is Johns Little brother, also danced in this show. First was Mikenzie. Man can this girl dance! In one of her dances it looked as though her spine couldn't be connected to her body with they way she can move. It was, as well as the others she danced in, was amazing.

Happy Feet, Taylor the only one not blurry

After "Happy Feet", which Taylor and Elle, Brooks daughter, danced was the dance that stole the show. Taylors cousin Erika danced. This dance had dad's as well as a brother dancing with these little girls. This was such a cute dance, and I think they got the biggest cheers!

Erika and Sam dancing to "Save the Last Dance"

4th grade April Fools trick

2010-04-15T15:19:00.002-06:00

The fourth grade teachers made this candy and handed it out to each student, unbeknown-st to the students, it turned their mouths blue. The blue only lasted a couple of hours and was a big hit with the students.

Ethan is now 12

2010-04-05T10:12:00.002-06:00

Almost a month ago, Ethan turned 12. I could hardly believe that my boy is 12, has received his second and first class merit badges in scouts, is now registered for Junior High, has graduated from primary (I think that excited him the most), and has received the Aaronic priesthood. He is also now doing fast offerings, B.Y.C (Bishop youth counsel), attended his first conference priesthood meeting, as well as various scouting activities. My boy is growing up. I admit I miss the baby/little boy he was but I am so happy to see the wonderful young man he is becoming. I really couldn't ask for a better kid.

The Ballet

2010-02-16T18:50:00.003-07:00

For an early Valentines, John took me out to dinner to the Tiaphoon and to see Ballet Wests rendition of Swan Lake at the Capitol Theater. He planned all this out on his own and kept it a secret from me for a couple of weeks. He told me he was making up for past last minute failures of gifts and planning (I can vouch for those like the farting Ren dog he gave me one year for my birthday). I think he is definitely on the right track now. It was a very nice evening and one I won't soon forget. I asked him if he was shooting himself in the foot because he was setting the "bar" a lot higher. He replied no.

(Pictures are not mine, but I found them online under Ballet West. Ballerina is Christinia Bennett who played Odette & Odelia in the production we saw. I also found the picture of the Capitol Theater online, when we were there it was at night and was all lit up.)

6th Grade Dance

2010-02-11T21:14:00.004-07:00

Punch, cookies, donuts, chips, and veggies for the sixth graders to snack on.

The gym

Ethan & TarynEthan & Sydnee

Ethan & Keely

Peanut Butter and cats

2010-01-15T16:34:00.002-07:00

So today, as I was making some lunch, our cat like always was meowing, rubbing against my legs then trying to climb up my leg to see what I had. Now of course this is a common occurance that I would normally just lightly push him away and continue on with what my task at hand is.
Well, not today. I had some peanut butter (just a teeny amount) on my finger and thought, "do cats like peanut butter, like dogs do (at least our dogs while growing up did)? I bent down, let him sniff. He didn't seem to interested, but he sat there staring at me and meowed again. So I took my finger, with the peanut butter, and placed it in his mouth wiping it (the peanut butter) on the roof of his mouth.
It was quite funny. I don't think he enjoyed it and I thought, "now he will leave me in peace". I was wrong. Once he was done he came back meowing. Did he want more? Or did he just want an ice cube to play with (yes, my cat loves to play with ice cubes and tries to climb the freezer to get his own).
So I pose this question do you have a funny experience with peanut butter and a cat?

Ben turns 5!

2010-01-07T09:44:00.013-07:00

Where has the time gone? My baby is five today, which means come August he will be going to kindergarten. I can hardly believe it. I remember his birth clear as day and I swear it wasn't all that long ago. His birth was a bit hard, he was breech and after an hour of trying to turn him (I don't recommend, talk about painful!) it was clear that a c-section was the way we were having to go. I was really nervous and very scared. I hadn't needed a c-section with my other kids and I had only a hour to get okay with it. I was so glad that John would be at my side the entire time holding my hand, helping me do this. He had to leave for a minute, to change in this silly looking white jumpsuit, and of course that was when they started "rolling" me down to the OR. I was so nervous that he wouldn't get to me, but suddenly he was there and my fears were put to rest. In all the commotion, he forgot the camera but at that point I didn't care. I needed him with me more than we needed the camera.

After many "drugs" later, and still being able to feel pain Jacob Bennett was finally born and the anesthesiologist gave me something that knocked me out while they stitched me up (yep, stitches not staples). I don't know how long I was out, but I woke up as they were taking me and my baby to my room (yep, even had baby in my arms and had no clue). He weighed 8lb and 3oz and was 20 inches in length. That was a big baby for me, in fact he was my biggest.
Ben developed a touch of jaundice so, he had to be wrapped up in a billi-blanket. He looked like a little glow worm. Once we were released we were very fortunate that we didn't need the billi-lights anymore.
Recovery was long and painful. I couldn't lay down with out it feeling like I was going to rip apart. I slept sitting up for a long time. It really was horrible. It was hard. It was all worth it. To this day every now and again I get phantom pain at my incision site.
Ben has always been my most cuddly, and a big momma's boy (still is). We used to call him my little shadow. John would tease that the umbilical cord was was never cut.
Now, five years later, my boy is still a sweet, loving momma's boy, who has brought so much love and happiness to our family. I wouldn't change a thing. Happy birthday Ben! I love you!

Christmas

2010-01-04T13:49:00.003-07:00

I can't believe how fast the Christmas season seemed to pass. I hope everyone had a safe and wonderful Christmas!
Our Christmas was nice and mostly relaxing. We decided this year to scale back, mainly because the kids really don't need much and we wanted to express the true meaning of Christmas. Also, I had been going through some health issues that caused John to really pick up the slack (which believe me there was a lot) while I lazily watched and felt guilty for not feeling good enough to do much. I am on the mend and finally done with antibiotics and pain killers, though at times I still don't feel 100% at least I can do more than what I could a few weeks back.
I really think the kids enjoyed their Christmas. We had our annual family Christmas party at my parents. It was SO nice to get together and even nicer that everyone showed up (it has been about 4-5 years since everyone has came). Everyone put their differences aside and got along really well. It was wonderful and hope it will continue.
For Christmas Ethan got a DSi that he had been itching for for along time. Katie got a new bike that is better fit for her as well as a new mp3 player. Taylor got a doll house, though not the the one she wanted (the barbie dream house) but one that we had to keep telling her it was a better quality (try to explain that to a 7 yr old who wants the other doll house because it is all pink). Ben finally got his Spike the Dinosaur (he has been wanting one since the previous year and was very disappointed when he didn't get it last year). Of course they got other little things as well like books, DVD's, music CD's and some games too. Santa also always fills their stockings with little treats and goodies. This year was no different but instead of toys he gave them personal care items like mini bubble bath, shower gel, lotion and chap stick, etc.
John and I also kept it simple with us. We mainly kept it as needs like socks, jammies etc. I did get him a music cd as well as wasabi flavored nuts and I am always on the hunt for good hot sauce for him. The man loves HOT and I found a gift pack with different levels of hot for him.
The day after Christmas we had our other annual Christmas party, this time with Johns family. We always do breakfast and this year was no different, other than we did breakfast for dinner. It was really yummy and very nice. My favorite part,besides the food, is that we have a ornament exchange every year. It is always so fun to see what ornaments everyone has chosen to share.
That was our Christmas in a nut shell. I really wanted to post pictures too, but for some reason my card reader isn't working and won't let me download my pictures, so if I/ when I get that fixed I will try and get them on.
For New Years, we stayed at home and watched movies, ate lots of junk, and stayed up late. Taylor was the only kid who made it to midnight, everyone else was out cold by 11. It was really nice spending a laid back evening at home with each other!
Now we are back to the grindstone, kids back in school (yip yip hooray!) and we start working on our New Years resolutions (though it make take all year for them to become habit, we will try to accomplish what we have set out to do). Happy New Year all, and hope this year will be all that we want it to be!

December

2009-12-10T16:06:00.002-07:00

So, it has been a while since I have sat down and blogged. Is it because I have been so busy? Partly. Is it because not much has been going on? Well, there was Halloween, Taylors 7th birthday, and Thanksgiving....to name a few, so no that isn't it. Is it because I have been a bit on the lazy side? Partly, that too. Is it because every time I sit down to write the kids have some new trauma that requires my attention? Yeah that sounds more like it. Speaking of which here they come....Okay seriously? Fighting over snow? Ummmm...I think we have more than enough snow to go around. So, once again I guess blogging will have to wait...

Spokane, Washington

2009-10-13T12:24:00.004-06:00

Just over a week ago, we had the opportunity to go to Spokane, Washington to see my cousin Emily marry. I hadn't seen her in seven years, and before that even longer. So, this was a great opportunity to reconnect with family members.

We made a road trip out it, and even though at times it felt LONG it was well worth it. We left on Oct. 2 and drove to Idaho Falls and spent the night at my uncle Richards house. It was really nice for them to put all of us up for the night (we hadn't visited their house in many years either).

On Saturday we continued our trek to Spokane. We arrived mid-afternoon/early evening. My Uncle Howard put us all up in a hotel, which we were SO surprised and grateful for. That evening we were able to go have dinner (at the Sawtooth Grill, a must to visit if you are ever in the area)with the happy couple and other family members. It was really nice. Of course I left my camera back at the hotel.

On Sunday, was the big day. Emily and Jack tied the knot. It was a beautiful wedding, although it was very windy and a bit chilly. They provided a yummy luncheon and dancing after. My kids had such a ball.

For more pictures check out my photo album on my Facebook account.

My only regret is that we couldn't have stayed longer. We were hoping to make it our family vacation and go into Seattle then into Oregon and then into the Redwood Forest. Alas, that was not to be. We had van problems before we left and decided it would be better to take the car and didn't think the kids could handle such close quarters for longer than Spokane. So, on Monday we drove straight home, with of course some potty breaks and to eat.

We are keeping our fingers crossed for another attempt at a vacation in November. John still has three vacation days to "burn". We are thinking some place warmer than what it will be here. Maybe San Diego or even just St. George. Will will have to see.

Preschool

2009-09-02T09:06:00.004-06:00

On Monday, Ben had his first day of preschool. I was surprised to find it a little hard to leave him, there at school, I have done this with each of my kids but I am finding it harder to leave my littlest

Back up to a few months ago, when I first mentioned to Ben that he would be going to preschool. He flat out and told me that he didn't need preschool because he already knew his ABC's and colors. It was the funniest thing. So to say he didn't want to go is an understatement. A few days after his statement, I took him to meet his teacher. He wouldn't look at her, hid behind me and John, refused to say anything to her and in fact would even talk to us (John and I) while we were there. I knew I had my work cut out for me.

Now after at least a month later and a daily talk about how big boys go to preschool and that he won't just be doing his ABC's bit playing with other kids his age, it was time to take him.

I am PROUD to say that he did great and in fact loved it, and keeps asking what day he goes back.

A nice perk to preschool? I got my kitchen all nice and almost all cleaned. Would have been all done but then I got a call from the elementary school to say that Katie got thorns all in her hair at P.E and wanted permission to cut them out. I told them not to touch her hair and I would be over to see what I could do (apparently the office and her teacher had tried for 20 minutes and couldn't get them out). To say these were thorns is a joke! These were more like burrs that broke up as you literally had to yank them out. After a hour I had them all out, without having to cut her hair. I have pictures on my cell phone to prove how horrible it was, now of course they don't do it justice. I told Katie I had to take pictures because NO one would believe us. When I have a chance I will try and post them.

The first week of school

2009-08-28T14:22:00.007-06:00

Today finished the first week of school. In many ways I was really glad that school was starting, no more "mom I'm bored" or "what can we do"s. But as it always proved a new year and a new set of problems. I was really hoping we could go a while without any problems. Ethan is now in sixth grade and really likes his teacher. He has however always had to deal with bulling in one way or another. Day three is when it all started up again. My son is a forever peace maker and unfortunately that seems to make him a target. So, hey all you bullies out there here is a heads up. Apparently if you wait until close to the bell rings to bring you in from recess, that time is fair game. According to the "ground duty" they won't do anything if the bell is about to ring or has rung. Just to make things clear the said ground duty is suppose to be there to help any child with any problem during recess, unless apparently the bell is about to ring. Ummmm...To say I am unimpressed is an understatement. Fingers crossed that it doesn't get worse. Katie is now in fourth grade and absolutely loves her teacher and class. She knows pretty much everyone in class. I really can see her flourishing this year! Taylor is in first grade this year. She is having a bit of an adjustment problem. This is however first year of full day school, that doesn't seem to be the biggest problem. She doesn't know anyone in her class, she is getting pushed (literally) by boys who happen to be in her primary class, at recess. She is eating lunch alone, not finding friends to play with at recess. We have addressed her problems as best as we can, and we are keeping our fingers crossed that will get better. I can't help but wonder which is better, having them at home or at school where I can have some peace for a few hours yet dealing with new found problems..... Monday Ben is set to start preschool. I am not sure what I will do with myself having everyone gone for a few hours three times a week. Maybe my house will finally get organized?

Ethan and Mrs. Robinson

Katie & Mrs. Roundy

Taylor and Mrs. Warburton

Lagoon bounce back

2009-08-28T10:11:00.005-06:00

So, with John working SO much lately we hadn't had the time to go to Lagoon again to do our "bounce back" until Sunday Aug.23. We went from opening to close (10a-6p), which was about perfect and it only rained a little bit on us for the first few minutes we were there. Then it was great weather until a half hour before closing and the rain came back. The kids were so excited and rode practically every ride in the place. I sent John and Ethan off to the Wicked, which I had NO interest in going on. Ethan LOVED it to say the least and I think John thought it was pretty good as well. He, John, kept hounding me to try it. Said I would really like it, blah, blah, blah. So like an idiot I got talked in to it. To say I hated it is an understatement (I know most would disagree with my previous statement, especially Ethan). I absolutely hate the feeling of weightlessness, let alone being jerked all over the place. Well, it pulled something in my neck so the remainder of the day I suffered from a major headache that no medicine helped (this was all in the first 45 minutes of arriving mind you). For the rest of the day I tried to take it easy, the best that I could at an amusement park. I tried to focus mostly on Ben and took him to kiddie land where he could ride the rides without anyone else and I took lots of pictures. That was a nice rest for my neck and head. So trying not to be a complete party pooper, I did go on Rattle Snake Rapids with the entire family. Admittedly, I thought that ride was fun, even being in pain, but I couldn't do it a second time with my head pounding. Otherwise I believe I made John do EVERY ride with the kids. Kinda served him right, right?:)

Now Ben keeps asking, everyday mind you, when are we going back to Lagoon.

Kenney Family Reunion 2009

2009-08-28T09:24:00.005-06:00

Almost a week ago we had the Kenney family reunion. In theory, we are to have a reunion every year, and each child of my grandparents are to switch off every year. With schedules as they are we haven't had a reunion in a few years, so it was nice to have one this year. This year it was held at West Jordan Park for a picnic and swiming at the community pool. We were to bring our own picnic lunch and a dessert to share. The turn out was so-so as usual but it was extremely nice to see who we did (and hope next year we will be able to have more family able to come). I did take a few pictures and so did Jaynelle,who borrow my camera to take a few more pictures.

It was so nice visiting with everyone! Hopefully we will do this again next year. Maybe we will even see you at Emily's wedding in October in Spokane.

PARKER FAMILY REUNION 2009

2009-08-28T09:00:00.007-06:00

I am a bit behind, so please excuse me if I have multiple blogs today. First I will start off with the Parker family reunion almost two weeks ago. As usual the reunion was held at a park, which is great so the little kids have a play ground to play on. This year the reunion was at Riverton City park. It is always on a Sunday and we always have dinner together with some pot luck items. Usually we bring our own dinner with "something" to share. This year, however the meal was taken care of (which I liked better in some ways, I really don't have much imagination for picnics), and we also had a variety of salads and deserts. We had a BINGO game with prizes for adults and prizes for the kids (school supplies). We also had a raffle for a homemade quilt and a silent auction for Grandma Lottie Parkers nativity set she made years ago. The turn out was great, and it was nice seeing everyone and catching up. I only took a few picture (so not like me).

Lagoon

2009-08-09T15:59:00.010-06:00

Yesterday we treated the kids to their first ever trip to Lagoon (I know, I know,I am a slacker and most people have a hard time believing my kids hadn't ever been even though I live 15 minutes away, we have found better things to spend our money on). I had been promising Ethan for a couple of years that I would take them, and it was time to keep that promise. I told him, "come Hell or high water we were going August 8th". It was almost Hell. John ended up having to work, Ethan had scout camp the night before in Fairfield, Taylor was invited to a friend birthday party, and to top it all off Ben came down with a fever Friday. So, after everyone was home and "drugging" up Ben with Tylenol we spent the last half of the day at Lagoon. That proved to be long enough for Ben anyway. The kids had a blast and are excitedly planning our bounce back day.

Cliffhanger

Musik Express

Carousel

Ethan

Katie

Ben LOVES cotton candy

Train ride

John

Taylor

goofy Ben, showing us his "moves"

2009-08-03T13:24:00.003-06:00

Well, It has been a few months since I have posted anything. The reason being, is not much has been going on. School doesn't start until August 24th. I am personally looking forward to it, so the kids have more to do. I am not looking forward to the homework and all the other problems that go hand in hand with school. Enough of that for now.
This past weekend, we celebrated my mother-in-laws 60th birthday. It was nice. Anna, Johns littlest sister brought over her face painting make-up and painted the kids faces. My kids loved it. They actually got very upset when we got home and I told them we had to wash it off. I had to promise that they can have her do it again. Anyway, she is planning on doing this for a part-time second job, so if anyone is looking for a great face painter, let me know and I can give you Anna's number.

This was taken after we got home. For more pictures check out my album on facebook.

San Francisco Vacation day 4

2009-05-27T12:48:00.002-06:00

Today we had decided to do our own walking tour. And what a walk it was! We walked all along Fishermans Warf and took in what I believe was ALL the sights it had to offer. The best part of the Warf for me was watching the California Sea Otters. They were so funny. If the wind hadn't been so bad I could have stayed there, watching them for hours.
After we "finished" with the Warf, we went to ride the cable cars. The line was 45 minutes long, but we decided to do it anyway. Finally our turn arrived and we rode it over to China Town. We then walked China Town and Nob Hill. We caught the cable car again and rode to the crookest street. We walked down one side of it and went back up the other, all the while watching people trying to drive down it. It was funny. John and I both were glad NOT to be driving down that street. From there we caught the car car again and rode back down to the Warf.
After eating dinner we walked to Ghiradelli Square, we enjoyed the best icecream sundae's. I had a peanut butter and fudge, John had their midnight revere. YUMMY! Well worth the cost, and once again making me glad we don't live there becasue we would go broke eating all those sundaes. After our sundaes we walked down municipal pier (kinda scary), in hope to see the city lighting up for night. On our walk back we stopped at the little beach and I had to test the water. Brrrrr! It was so cold.
We walked and walked and walked, until we thought we could go no further and we finally went back to our hotel. To say my legs hurt is a huge understatement, but so worth it!

San Fran Day 3 City Tour, Muir Woods and Salsalito

2009-05-26T10:35:00.003-06:00

We spent the morning going on a tour of the city. The tour was by bus and we went ALL over the city. It was nice. The only down fall is being on a tour bus you are restricted to their time schedules and stops. I enjoyed the the tour, where John didn't as much. My only complaint is not stopping more often to take in the sights. John's complaints were not enough of the city, stops to short, and not stopping enough. Our tour guy was an Italian man, who was very funny and quite knowledgeable of the city. We went through some of the "neighborhoods" of San Francisco, like China Town, Union Square and of course across the Golden Gate bridge. It was another COLD, windy and foggy day.
In the afternoon, we took another tour bus and went to Muir Woods and Salsalito. Muir Woods was beautiful! The redwood trees were amazing! The tree were at least 250 feet tall. John was in heaven. His dream now is to one day climb one. Our tour guide wasn't as good as our morning guy and only gave us an hour to explore the woods. We felt like we were in such a hurry and this place is so calm and beautiful you just want to leisurely walk through and take you time exploring. From Muir Woods we went to Salsalito. This is a huge tourist trap place. John and I didn't really enjoy it. It was just a lot of shops and not much else. You can pay to take the ferry back over to San Francisco, but the ferry was due for quite a while and decided to take the tour bus back. Tomorrow we are planning on riding the cable cars and do our own walking tour of the city.

San Francisco Day 2 - Alcatraz

2009-05-24T10:14:00.004-06:00

Today we visited Alcatraz, a must see for anyone visiting the Bay area. Tickets go fast so ordering online is best (which is what we did,whew!). It started out as a cold and windy day. The boat ride was nice but man we were COLD. The views were amazing though, we were blessed not to have the fog though it was overcast.
When you get to the island you are greeting by a park ranger who goes over the rules of the island. they are plain and simple, like don't go where it is marked close for your safety, etc. From there you can stop in and watch a 10-15 minute movies that goes over a brief history of the island, or you can continue your walk up the the prison (like going up a thirteen story building). We choose to watch the movie first. It was very informative, and there is a lot that we had never heard before.
After the movie, we made are walk up to the prison. It actually isn't as hard as one may think. Once inside you are greeted again and asked what language you speak. You are then given a headset that will take you on an audio tour of the prison. It is very interesting. You can stop and pause the audio at anytime, and can take as much time as you would like on the island and prison building.
One of the best parts was when two little boys, I would venture to say ages 5 and 3, shut themselves in on of the open cells. It was funny. Their mom however, didn't see the humor at that time. Since the boys were "stuck" in there a "manager" and another worker were called to get the boys out. What was neat was to be able to see how the cell doors operate (by remote, the technology was cool to see) and hearing them shut. It was awesome. The boys were released unharmed.There is SO much history that surrounds this island, that it is so hard to sum up here. My recommendation is to check it out yourself. You won't be disappointed. I know we will be back one day, hopefully with our kids (and hopefully they don't lock themselves in a cell too. teehee)I know the history will not be lost on them either.

San Francisco vacation Day 1

2009-05-22T22:06:00.004-06:00

John and I decided a while ago that we really needed some "mom and dad" alone time. Other than an occasional overnight-er we have not left then kids and been alone in 12 years. So with that in mind we planned a long getaway weekend alone to San Francisco. Things fell into place rather slowly at first, but in the end everything came together.
Day one was mostly spent getting here to San Francisco. We packed everything the night before and yesterday afternoon we were on our way. I went to drop the kids off at my parents (THANKS MOM & DAD)and found that my car wouldn't start. John was at work, my neighbors gone to work and I thought "Now what"? Suddenly and very unexpectedly my phone rang and it was a good friend and neighbor a few streets over, and even though she was calling me for a favor, I can't help but believe that there was divine inspiration she new I needed her help. With her help we jump started my car and I was on my way. After the kids were all settled and good-bye hugs and kisses were given, I was on my way to pick up John from work, then on to the airport.
Now, John and I haven't flown in 12 years and to say things have changed is an understatement. Still, with all the changes we made it through security pretty quickly. Then was the wait for the plane.
Our plane cabin was SO tiny! I HATED it. Glad it was a smooth ride though. I had a little girl behind me who cried for the last 45 minutes of our trip (and I use little lightly, she was at least 12 years old). From the airport, we took a shuttle to our hotel, the Tuscan Inn.
After we checked in and place our belongings in our room we were off to explore the Warf. where we saw very "interesting" people. We stopped to watch a street performer/comedian/fire eater. He was really funny and was amazing with his torches. From there we went and had a bite to eat at the Wipeout cafe, on pier 39. It was really good. The wind picked up and got really cold so, we had to buy long sleeve shirts and jackets. After we headed back to our hotel, we were pretty tired. Tomorrow we are off to Alcatraz.

Snow in April?

2009-04-15T13:10:00.003-06:00

I was going to blog about my beautiful new stove, but that can wait for another day. Instead I am going to complain about the snow. Snow? Really? In mid-April? Are you kidding me? I know it can happen but come on, enough already! At least I am lucky to be able to stay home for the most part (other than taking kids to school and picking them up). The flakes are huge yet coming down fast and sticking to the grass. If it wasn't April, I would be more appreciative of it. It also makes me feel bad for those who have to work outside in it, like my dear sweet hubby who is coming around to check the power lines for trees growing into them. So the furnace is on so we don't freeze, I enjoyed a yummy mug of hot chocolate and I am going to relax here looking out the window and try to let the calm of the snow over take me instead of annoyance of it falling in what should be spring like weather.

2009-04-05T22:24:00.002-06:00

You Are 4: The Individualist

You are sensitive and intuitive, with others and yourself.

You are creative and dreamy... plus dramatic and unpredictable.

You're emotionally honest, real, and easily hurt.

Totally expressive, others always know exactly how you feel.

At Your Best: You are inspired, artistic, and introspective. You know what you're thinking, and you can communicate it well.

At Your Worst: You are melancholy, alienated, and withdrawn.

Your Fixation: Envy

Your Primary Fear: To have no identity

Your Primary Desire: To find yourself

Other Number 4's: Alanis Morisette, Johnny Depp, J.D. Salinger, Jim Morrison, and Anne Rice.

What Number Are You?

Ethan

2009-03-12T21:56:00.005-06:00

Ethan is finally feeling better! WAHOO! Now if I could just get this seemingly never ending headache turned migraine turned back to headache gone! Plus I think I may be getting a cold, ahhh! Please bring in spring already!!
Anyway, for every ones birthday we let the birthday person decide where they would like to go out to eat (on their birthday). So where Ethan was sick it wasn't until last night when we were finally went out to eat. Of all the places he choose KFC. We tried to talk him into some place else, but it was his birthday and his choice so we went there. Katie refused to eat there so she made herself a pb&j. KIDS! So funny. We are planning a party for him for next Saturday with his friends. Now he just has to decide if the just wants a couple of friends and go to the movies or have a few more friends and do something at home. He hasn't made up his mind yet, so we will see.
On a fun note Ethan is no longer a cubscout and has moved on to the boyscouts. He was initiated last night where the other scouts tied him to a chair. BOYS! So silly! He will receive his arrow of light next Thursday and is looking forward to attend his first scout camping trip next month.

Ethan turns 11!

2009-03-09T09:08:00.002-06:00

My first baby, who obvious reasons is no longer a baby, turn 11 today. It's hard to wrap my mind out how quickly he and my other kids have grown. Today, though is all about him. Unfortunately he is sick so, there won't be to much celebrating today but as soon as he is feeling better out hope is to do a small party where he can invite two or three friends have pizza, and go catch a movie. Here's hoping he feels better soon! Love you Ethan! Happy birthday!

A "NEW" CAR

2009-03-03T14:45:00.002-07:00

With this economy and the problems it has, it finally trickled down to the the vegetation management department. So with this has caused us to have to buy another vehicle, so John could get to work (we are truly lucky that buying another car was the worst part of this change, and are extremely lucky that John still has a job to go to). So almost two weeks ago, this Saturday, we took the plunge and bought another car. We got a screaming deal on a 2007 Ford Fusion (was worth high book but was able to get for $5,000 less than that), with VERY low mileage (19000 approx.). This car has so many gadgets and buttons that we still don't know what they all do. In fact, last night I finally found where the trunk button was inside the car! I am so thankful for all who helped us get this car! Thanks Dad and Mom! Also thank you to Mark Miller Pontiac (located about 3600 South and State Street in Salt Lake) who agreed to the terms, and our salesman Lance who was awesome! I have never liked shopping for cars and never really found a decent place to go as well as great salesman (this is a miracle coming from me!), so I would recommend Mark Miller Pontiac as well as Lance if you are ever in the market to purchase a car.

We Fell In Love

2009-02-16T20:44:00.004-07:00

In May 1991, John and I met. We will be celebrating our seventeenth year of marriage this month. Most of you already know our story but for those who don't:

The first time John and I saw each other was at Stacy and Jared's wedding. John was Jared's best man and I was at the guest sign in book. I had brought the guy I was dating at the time with me. As soon as a saw John, I couldn't seem to take my eyes off of him. What can I say, there was just something there.
A couple of weeks later Stacy and Jared set us up on a date. I can't honestly say that it was a blind date since we had seen each other at the wedding. We "doubled" on that first date with Stacy and Jared. I would say it was a almost a marathon date. First we we went out for pizza (I think it was Pizza Hut), then off we went to the Galleria (remember that place?).At the Galleria we bowled (I don't bowl well, so lets just say I had more gutter balls than anything), we played miniature golf (I had never played before, so I must say I swung to hard and my golf ball went flying. This caused much laughter to John and Jared, who kept telling me were "miniature" golfing not the real thing), then we went roller skating. This I could do. Jared REFUSED to skate, so thinking John would feel the same Stacy and I went off to skate. John caught up with us and held my hand. I was so surprised and even told him so. He just said I was his date and he wanted to make me happy and do things that I liked to do too. To say that I was stunned is an understatement. I never had dated a guy who actually cared what I wanted to do, let alone spend SO much money on me (sidebar- most who I dated would conveniently forget their wallet, money etc and I would end up paying for both and sometimes just me). I felt guilty over the cost of our date and wanted to pay him back (once again, I dated TOADS and didn't realize that the guy can actually pay for a change). John got slightly offended because I felt like I needed to pay or give him money (he understood later when I told him my past toad stories). After the Galleria we went back to Stacy and Jared's to watch a video. John fell asleep, which slightly offended me but in his defense it was a long date.
After our date I didn't hear from John, but Stacy called me and said he liked me and I should call him. I didn't know what to do. I really was tired of "dating games" and didn't have much chase left in me, so I didn't call. Stacy and Jared set up another date for us and this time we went to the drive in. We all squished ourselves into John's Toyota Truck, then sat in the back of it to watch the movies. They had brought only two lounge chairs and Stacy and Jared cuddled up in one and since I really didn't know John very well, we tried to sit side by side in the chair. It was painful and uncomfortable so I moved to the end edge. It got cold, Stacy and Jared had one blanket and John had the other and he fell asleep again. I didn't know what to think. I was hurt and offended. The next day Stacy and Jared both kept telling me to call John. I had mixed feelings and didn't know what to do. I did finally call him that Saturday with the intention of asking him out (I was going to give him one more chance). I am a chicken, it took SO much for me to call him that I couldn't get to the point of why I did. I was very good a beating around the bush though. While we were talking he received another call on call waiting. It was a friend of his and wanted to get together that night. John got back to me and told me. I was ready to kick myself for taking so long to get to my point, when he asked me to come along. I was so happy, but then nervous because once again we were going to the drive in. This time we went in his brothers car (Sam was out on his mission and his car was just there)and needless to say he stayed awake the entire time, both movies.
A couple of weeks later, and many dates (we saw each other practically everyday)as well as well as a almost break up (he wanted to date another girl as well as me and I said no, I was done with the whole dating game and he could date me or date others it was his choice),we were sitting and watching TV and out of the blue John asks me who I was going to marry. I thought he was joking around. So I made a joke and named one of his friends then I laughed. It was then I saw he was serious. I felt horrid. I tried to tell him I was joking around, but he didn't want to talk about it after that. A few weeks after that we were out and about and he wanted to got to the mall. I thought that was kinda strange. He really doesn't like shopping, it was out of character. He started looking in the windows of jewelry stores and pointing out rings and asking what I liked. I kinda brushed him off, until he led me into one. He sat down and started asking to see rings. I was excited, thrilled and scared all at once. He bought me my first engagement ring that night.The next weekend we went hiking up Doughnut Falls where he proposed.
We told my parents first. My mom was happy, yet said I was to young(I was 19). John didn't want to tell his mom. It was no secret that his mom really didn't like me much and saying she wasn't happy about our engagement is an understatement (a lot has changed since then). Lee, Johns dad congratulated us and gave me a hug.
I let John pick our wedding date. At first he wanted to wait until his brother came home from his mission, but after realizing that wouldn't be until April 1993 he changed his mind. The date he picked was February 29th 1992, Leap Day. We love confusing people over how many actual anniversaries(leap days)we have had.

Now seventeen years later or 4.25 years later(by calendar days) through ups and downs I couldn't be happier. He is the love of my life, and I am lucky to have such a wonderful man. I love my husband more today than I did seventeen years ago and I wouldn't change a thing. Happy anniversary, John. I love you very much. You are a wonderful husband and dad!

Jr. Jazz Game

2009-02-10T15:33:00.003-07:00

On Saturday, Ethan had one of his basketballs games. They played really good and really fought for the ball, and worked as a team. The other team played a little "dirty", but that didn't seem to matter. Ethan's team won the game. Yea them!

A Week Of Early Out

2009-02-05T10:18:00.002-07:00

This week my kids have early out week. So Taylor is out at 10:50a and the others are out at 1:25p. It is really driving me crazy, not that the kids are bad necessarily but I am running carpool this month too and I am getting tired of dropping off and coming 2 hours later to pick up one, then 2 hours later to pick up 4 more (neighbor kids+mine). I really don't like early out week (happens a couple of times a year or so). I would rather the kids go Mon-Wed and have Thursday and Friday off. Many of the teachers agree and are hoping to change the policy (we will see...), admittedly they are getting much done themselves.
Also it is also SEP conferences and my kids are doing great. That is always nice to hear. Ethan is reading on a sixth grade level and Katie is reading on a fifth (both above average). Taylor is doing great in her reading program too. It is so nice to have older kids help with out, especially with reading. Taylor has really taken off. If you can't tell I am very proud.

January Blahs...

2009-01-28T15:55:00.002-07:00

It's January, what more needs to be said? We're either dealing with the horrible inversion or the terrible cold. Of the two I would rather have to cold than breathing in that yucky air. So, how to deal with the cold, when no one wants to be out in it?
Yesterday I just happened to stop at the mall. I really don't like the mall, but a payment needed to be made. I stopped in at Childrens Place and happened upon their Monster Madness Sale. What a madness it was! All of their winter clothes and coats were marked down to $5.99 (older kids stuff 4T and under were $4.99). I really don't like to shop, but who can pass up such a bargain? I got some GREAT deals. Nice dressy knee length coats (perfect for church) lined in fur (fake of course) regular price $59.50! I got jeans for all four kids, fleece jackets and pants, and numerous long sleeved shirts. 99% of what I purchased I bought the next size up to save for the next school year. Talk about an early start on back-to-school shopping. :)
So, today I clean out the girls closets and dressers. Taylor has 30 dresses! In her defense she loves to wear dresses, but does she really need 30 of them? I have one bag of clothes set aside for our neighbor girl, one for a past neighbor and another bag for a cousin. Goodness my girls can dress at least three other girls, and they still have more than enough left for themselves.
From there I moved on to my youngest closet and filled up another bag of clothes that he had grown out of. It felt so nice to get all of that done. Next maybe the infamous toy boxes......

I figure it like this, if John see me motivated to get things cleaned and organized, maybe he can find the time to finish the girls bedroom downstairs, so we can turn our focus on moving them down and then repainting our upstairs. One can dream right?

Life

2009-01-21T09:03:00.008-07:00

So, its been a couple of weeks since I have made any type of an update. Honestly I kept thinking, not much is really going on or has even happened lately. Then I sat a gave it a little thought and realized more than what I had thought has gone on.
First my oldest Ethan started playing JR Jazz this month. John is his coach, and seems to be enjoying the time he gets to spend with Ethan. They have practices every Wednesday afternoon and games every Saturday. Their first game they lost by quite a bit and the second game we had to miss, for a prior engagement.
Second, we survived Ben's fourth birthday party that we had for him on January 10. I can't believe how big he is getting! He loves Star Wars and Batman, well all that boy stuff. It's like Ethan all over again. He had so much fun. One thing we had given him was a camera (yes, a real working on but its one of those kid tough ones) and he was so excited to take a picture of everyone. So cute! He was spoiled and loves all his presents, the only thing he keeps asking is wheres Spike the Dinosaur (that is another story)?Our next event was last Saturday, January 17. We had the opportunity to go to the Draper Temple open house. Our ticket time was 12:20p (reason why we missed the Jr Jazz game). You had to park your car at your designated LDS church house, where you would watch a short film then shuttled by bus (the nice kind not UTA) to the temple. Since it was so busy we ended up having to park on the road outside the church. No big deal really (until later , more on that in a minute). The temple was absolutely beautiful. You could feel the spirit the minute you walked in the doors. Ethan described it best, warm and fuzzy feeling. The kids were all so good. No complaining, crying or whining. The spirit was broken for a moment when another child had an absolute meltdown inside and was screaming at the top of his lungs. What a nightmare for his parents (this kid has to be at least 6). I was even more grateful for my own kids at that time. The tour, that was suppose to last a hour and a half, ended taking almost three hours! Still with no complaint for my kids! When we got all settled in the back of our car, John had noticed that someone had hit our side view mirror (it bends forward). We really didn't think much about that until later.....Yep, someone hit our car. The scrape goes clear up the car, over the door handle too (the picture doesn't quite do it justice). The dent is deep and have paint chipping off. So it wasn't only the mirror that got hit (luckily no damage to that) but they hit the whole side of my car. You got to love honesty. Who ever hit it left no note or anything, so we are left with the damages and repair ourselves. I was kind of mad at first (surprising not as mad as I thought I would be)but I was not surprised by the lack of honesty, even at a church sponsored event.

That brings us up to yesterday when Taylor had to get a cyst removed from her forearm. She was so brave, held my hand the whole time, surprising me and the doctor with no crying or tears. He told us that even older kids than her don't do as good as she did. So she has a few stitches that will dissolve on their own over time. She is doing really well and we are alternating Tylenol and Motrin for pain. She went off to school today in good spirits too.
So that pretty much brings us up to date (other than the Science Fair and getting all of Ethan'sreceive the Arrow of Light Award from Cub scouts. More on that at a later time:).
requirements to

Ben turns four!

2009-01-07T20:57:00.009-07:00

Ben then (2005)

I can hardly believe that my "baby" is four. Where did the time go? Four years ago today, Ben was born. He was born cesarean due to complications (he was breech, and refused to move even though my doctor had tried to turn him). I was only given one hour to come to terms with a cesarean section. My recovery was long and hard, but Ben was perfect. Now four years he is still perfect to me and as sweet as can be. The time has gone to fast and unfortunately it will continue to do so. All of which is a reminder to us all to slow down, take the time to "smell the roses", enjoy the time we have with our kids especially while they are still young enough that they want to spend time with us. Which brings me back to this "Happy Birthday Ben! I love you very much"!

Ben now (2009)

Frozen Water Pipes!

2009-01-05T17:20:00.003-07:00

So, if you were ever a non-believer (or think this would never happen to you), when it came to letting your water drip over night so your pipes don't freeze, please learn from us. It can happen no matter how well you think your pipes are insulated.

We woke up this morning (first day back to school after Christmas break)to NO water. No even a trickle could be found anywhere. Now,apparently John knew of the no water as early as 5:30am, but forgot to let me know before he left off to work. He was making a peanut butter and honey sandwich for Ethan's lunch and spilled honey on the floor,went to clean it found no water so he just wiped it with a dry paper towel (should say smear it). Now the rest of us get up about 7-7:30am, kids went to use the bathroom and lo and behold no water! Katie who likes to shower EVERY morning, was wondering "how am I suppose to shower"? I told her going one day will be fine. Then she came up with the brilliant idea of using wet wipes (and even though Ben is potty trained, we still has those useful things still around). So off into the shower (why you ask, did she need to do it in the shower? Well she is 8 is my only response)she went with a wet wipe.

In the meantime, I call John and find out he knew we had no water (could have smacked him if he was closer!)for hours. I then call my neighbor to see if they have water, to see if it could be a main water leak. Well, they had water so we knew it was most likely just us. Call was then placed to the public water works department, they would send someone right out. He actually got here quite quickly, but to my dismay we are told that our pipes were frozen somewhere on "our side", and we needed to call a plumber.

Six more calls later to various plumbers, I finally find a place that can come within two hours and will do a free estimate. While waiting, John comes home to see what he can do to help. Of course there really isn't much he can do. He does though get some water from the water heater to dump into the toilet tank so we can have one more flush.

Finally, the plumber comes! He needs to see where our water comes into the house. Of course this is located in the messiest room in the house, Ethan's room. There is where he finds the frozen pipe, but doesn't know how far it is frozen up unless he cuts into the wall.Plus, being that our house is only 6 years old we have pex pipes and he can't heat them the traditional way,he needs to use a blow torch at the metal coupling's. We (the plumber and I) call John to tell him what was going on and what we needed to do to fix it. John doesn't like the idea of someone cutting into our walls wants me to go by a space heater and point it at the wall and hope that will take care of the problem, until I remind him WE HAVE NO WATER! Even the plumber admits that a space heater may not do the job and if it does, there is no guarantee how long it would take. Thank goodness John had a change of heart and lets the plumber do his work. 25 minutes later, and a huge cut in Ethan's wall plus the price tag of over $200 we now have water. Believe me I am not complaining, it could have been worse. We are luckily that no pipe had burst in the process of the whole adventure. So like I said I am not complaining, but a FYI if you want to make a lot of money and have probably the best job security become a plumber! Oh yes and about the honey? Well I stepped into it without knowing about it and ended up with some VERY sticky socks and when I mentioned my annoyance of the kids spilling and not cleaning up John then confessed what it was and that it was him. Thankfully I hadn't gotten mad at the kids for it by then.

The theme is pink and black

2008-12-29T18:43:00.008-07:00

I can't believe that Christmas is already over, by almost a week! Wow! Time passes quickly when you are having fun with family. The kids were of course spoiled, but not rotten. In 9 days my baby boy will be turning 4! Once again where does the time go?

It has been unbelievably cold! Our street has been pure ice for about a week now. I know we need the snow, but do we need this much all at once and the freezing temps? I think I will hibernate until spring. Okay that is definately wishful thinking on my part!

Dance Show #2

2008-12-17T09:49:00.004-07:00

She loves to pose and it shows!

So, Monday night was Katie's dance show. It went on without a hitch (at least on the dancers part). It seems that the lighting, the backstagers?(one who pulls the curtain), and the boys (I guess I should say young men- probably high school students) who Que the music were either a little off or were spacing off. Not that it bothered me by all means, but you could hear others in the audience who were wondering what was going on. During some of those down times (when the music nor the lights were on) I spent my time trying to keep Ben in control. He really was a good sport for the most part, but being three and having to sit through two shows was more than he could handle. My tolerance was wearing thin, but then I thought " you know, if I was three and had to sit through two off these I probably wouldn't be happy either". Taylor loved it both times and I think Ethan was waiting for the Earth to open up and swallow him whole.

Even though flash photography isn't allowed during the performances, we still tried to take pictures. My camera does an excellent job even without the flash, unfortunately though Katie dance was so fast and they were constantly moving that most of her pictures came out blurry. I did take a few before the show, and Katie just loves her picture taken and kept posing all over. Kinda funny. I did take video but I still haven't checked that yet (I tried, but we had just gotten a new camera and I figure out how to play it on a computer yet....).

I would be lying, if I said I wasn't happy to have it all over until January. I am ready for a break from kids activities.

So as I said January it will pick up again and Katie's dance class will be working on their spring show where she will be dancing to Girls Just Want To Have Fun. Also in May, she will be trying out for junior starlets (if she continues to want to dance). We also will be adding Jr. Jazz for Ethan with John as his teams coach.

Very blurry, but you get my point.

Dance Show #1

2008-12-14T23:00:00.004-07:00

Last night was Taylor's dance show. We had to be there at 9am for practice. Who put the request of snow? Well according to the Dance Director it was her. Thanks Miss Lisa!

I spent most of the day at the school for practice between Taylor and Katie! Then back again in the evening for Taylor's show. Luckily my Mom and Dad helped out and had my other kids and brought them to us for the second show. That helped TONS!

This year her class was little dolls and danced to Are My Ears on Straight. They all did so well! I even got choked up while watching (typical, of me though). No flash photography was allowed, but I still think we got some good pictures! (Taylor is in the middle)
With all the snow, we had thought our drive home would have taken forever and be horrible. Luckily, it wasn't to bad. One we got out of Salt Lake and headed north it wasn't bad at all!

So Taylor is finished until January with dance where they will begin to work on their spring show, dancing to the Bunny Hop. So cute!

Tomorrow, dance program #2 (Katie program). Please pray for decent weather!

Family Pictures

2008-12-09T20:40:00.004-07:00

So, on Sunday we finally made the time to go out and get family pictures done so we can send out Christmas cards this year (there we no cards last year). We went to a park near our home and along with many other families (I was surprised to see so many people out doing the same thing), got our pictures done. It only took an hour and we walked away with some pretty good pictures, if I do say so myself. I love having a camera with a remote to enable us to get all of us together, without having to pay someone. To keep Ben looking at the camera we had one of his tiny stuffed dogs and placed it on top of the camera. Ben thought it was funny especially when the flash would suddenly decide to pop up and his dog would go flying. I am so happy to get these checked off my "To Do" list! Now I just need to get them sent out. Addresses anyone?

I am a Great Aunt

2008-12-06T23:37:00.004-07:00

Last night I became a great Aunt (man, I am feeling old now). My niece Ciahlee had a baby boy. He weighed 6 lb 10 oz and was 19" long. After an extremely busy day, we were able to go to the hospital to see the new momma and baby. He is so cute!! Ben wasn't to sure about Skylar, but warmed up to him quickly. My kids were so excited to visit and hold the baby! Congrats Ciahlee, he is a sweetheart!

Katie Dance Class

2008-11-21T14:17:00.005-07:00

So, going along with my busy week, last night was Katie's dance class. She is doing real good and seems to be enjoying it a lot more than what she was at the beginning of the "term". She too has a late dance class and even though I still don't completely like having dance so late it isn't as bad as when the littler ones have it. Her performance will be December 15 at 5:30p and 7:30p. If anyone would like to attend (it's free) let me know by e-mail and I will send back all of the necessary information.

Dance Class

2008-11-19T09:00:00.010-07:00

So after a long weekend with John being sick, and Taylor having a birthday party with her friends (was fun, noisy and I'm glad its over), this week has continued to be busy. On Monday was costume check/observation at Taylor's dance class. They were so cute! Taylor just absolutely loves dance. I wish we could just do something about the time class is (7:30p-8:30p). Why do 5-6 year old have to have class so late? Shouldn't the older girls classes be later than the younger ones? Especially since most of these kids are usually in bed by 8:00p on regular days. I know I am complaining, its not like I can't pull her out, but she loves it so much that sometimes I need to vent especially when Tuesday mornings can be bad with getting up for school. On a happier note, the date and time for the dance show has been given. So, if anyone is interested in coming, please e-mail and I will reply with all the info. FYI: these shows are free of charge and last about 1 1/2 hours.

Happy Birthday! Taylor

2008-11-13T12:15:00.004-07:00

Today is Taylor's 6th birthday! I can hardly believe it. Where did the time go? Its so amazing to look back and see how fast everything has come and gone. Today I went to Taylor's Kindergarten class to tell about Taylor, pass out messy cookies (sorry!), and have Taylor show her poster of pictures. She was very shy and quiet while being in front of her class.

So, even though her birthday is today, we went out last night to dinner to celebrate (Katie has dance tonight), and I had forgotten my camera (drats). She choose to go to Golden Coral and by the time we left we couldn't decide if the kids ate the food or the food tried to eat them. Very funny. On Saturday, Taylor will have her little friend party, and as for family (grandma and such) we decided to celebrate it with Thanksgiving along with my Mom's and Jordan's birthday. Happy birthday Taylor! We love you Princess Coconut (she named herself that a couple of years ago)!

Candy, Candy, and still more Candy!

2008-11-01T15:08:00.008-06:00

Anyone in the need for candy? Boy did my kids get more than their fair share of candy!

Now this is just Ben's! Just imagine, we have three other piles just as big and I think Ethan's might be slightly bigger than this!

The kids had a great time trick or treating! Here are some pictures of their costumes! My mom made the girls costumes!

Katie the Hippie!

Taylor a medieval princess

Mr. Skel E. Ton

Ethan

I didn't get one of them all together. I guess I will need to Photoshop one if I want one.

Our pumpkins!

Now I am off to check clearance sales, mostly for Candy to use for Christmas. The chocolate freezes great, and I love individual packaging of Halloween Candy. So much easier to get in and out of stockings!

Halloween party at dance

2008-10-28T12:12:00.004-06:00

Last night was Taylor's Halloween party at dance. It was not much of a party, because they still need to practice their dance (for the show in December) but they get to come in their Halloween costumes and pass out candy. She had a lot of fun and tons of candy. Who needs trick-or-treating when there are so many parties to go to? Taylor began to worry for a moment that that there wouldn't be trick-or treating, since I commented on how much candy she already has. No worries, the kids will still go out on Friday to get their "load" of candy.

Are you a VAMPIRE?

2008-10-27T14:47:00.000-06:00

You Could Definitely Be a Vampire

Immortality, staying pretty forever, not having to get a job... you could definitely eat some flesh for these things.

It's not that you're a murderer by nature. In fact, you're probably the furthest thing from it.

However, if you woke up a vampire, you'd certainly be able to adapt and enjoy your new lifestyle.

There might not be much better than living forever, even if it means giving up your soul.

What you would like best about being a vampire: Being a total outsider

What you would like least about being a vampire: Other vampires

Could You Be a Vampire?

My Vampire name plus Twilight pictures

2008-10-25T22:24:00.008-06:00

My Vampire Name:
The Great Archives determine you to have gone by the identity: Anne Flanders
Known in some parts of the world as: Her of Gypsies
The Great Archives Record: A traveller of travellers, of good humour but dangerous.

Just wanted to share so random Twilight pictures from the movie. Enjoy!

HSM3!

2008-10-25T20:33:00.003-06:00

So today, being Saturday, we each have our chores to get done around the house. I promised the girls if they could get the TV room and their bedroom cleaned in a timely matter and with little to know fighting we would go see the much anticipated movie. Well, I really can't say much for the timely matter let alone the lack of fighting. But they did work really hard when they weren't fighting or playing instead of cleaning.Once the work was done I decided to reward them and take them to High School Musical 3. They were really excited! First we all went to lunch at the mall when everyone could pick whatever, then we went to the dollar store to pick up some snacks for the movie. John dropped us girls off and from what I hear the boys came home ate their treats and played video games.
Now the movie, if you haven't seen it is 100 minutes in length, which isn't to bad. The movie itself was pretty good. The first outbreak of song didn't bother me until "Gabrielle" stands up in the crowd and she and "Troy" start singing together and my first thought was, man I hope it gets better (it does). Next thought, this should have been on TV (but then Disney wouldn't make as much money). All in all it was good and by the end you kinda forget the cheesy parts.
At first Katie kept saying, "this is weird". I think because it was different and a bit bigger production. By 30 minutes in the girls were so into it. I kept looking over at them to see their reactions, and they were mesmerized. When the movie was over Katie wanted to go buy the movie. I had to remind her that it just came to theaters and would be awhile before it hit DVD. She was bummed out about it at first, then I offered to take then to Target and see how much the soundtrack was. John laughed when I told him, but complied by taking us there. As luck would have it they had the CD on sale for 9.99 instead of 13.99. They were ecstatic to say the least.
Since the CD player in our car is broken (I have the Keane CD stuck in there, I think my car loves it because it won't eject it, and loves to play it over and over..)so they had to wait to until we got home. Boy were they excited! We listened to it the minute we got home, then had to load it on the computer so they could load it on their mp3 players! I bet I know what CD they will want to listen to for the next while when they go to bed!
So my take is this: The kids will love it, should have been on Disney Channel (although we all know that wouldn't have made them as much mula)and if you go to a matinee movie I would say it was worth the price.

Yummy recipes

2008-10-21T20:34:00.007-06:00

Admittedly these aren't my recipes, but were posted by women in my ward and I thought I too would pass them along to share. Thanks Nicole for the Mint Brownie recipe(this is a BYU official recipe.)She had these brownie when attending BYU back in the day and always wonder why she had such headaches going to student counsil meetings. She found it was the brownie/sugar overload! Brook has a good recipe similar to the Pain au Chocolat. In hers you use pie dough and as yummy yummy as hers is I really liked Cami's recipe since it was more of an individual size portions and goes a little further with a bit more work. Cami spent her mission in France and this is a variety of one of her favorite treats. Thanks for the recipe Cami! Other good varieties to the Pain au Chocolat is instead of chocolate you can add fruit, butter and cinnamon, practically anything that sound good to you. ENJOY!

BYU MINT BROWNIES
MAKES ONE 9-BY-13 PAN OF BROWNIES
PREP AND COOK: 90 min.
COOL: 1 hr.
1 c. margarine
1/2 c. cocoa
2 Tbsp. honey
4 eggs
2 c. sugar
1 3/4 c. flour
1/2 Tbsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. chopped walnuts
12 oz. chocolate icing (Use your own icing recipe or purchase some chocolate frosting. You can also search the Internet for chocolate icing recipes.)
MINT ICING
5 Tbsp. margarine
dash of salt
3 Tbsp. milk
1 Tbsp. light corn syrup
2 1/3 c. powdered sugar
1/2 tsp. mint extract
1-2 drops green food coloring
1. Melt margarine and mix in cocoa. Allow to cool. Add honey, eggs, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. Add nuts. Pour batter into a greased 9-by-13 baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Cool.
2. Prepare mint icing: Soften margarine. Add salt, corn syrup, and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Add mint extract and food coloring. Mix. Add milk gradually until the consistency is a little thinner than cake frosting.
3. Spread mint icing over brownies. Place brownies in the freezer for a short time to stiffen the icing. Remove from the freezer and carefully add a layer of chocolate icing.

Pain au Chocolat (french for Chocolate Bread)
1-2 pkgs. Pillsbury Dough croissants (depends on the size of your family)
1 bag milk chocolate chips (semi-sweet will work, but not as tasty)
Optional:confectioners sugar to sprinkle on top,and drops of butter to add with the chocolate chips before rolling up (to help melt the chocolate chips better)
1 large egg beaten and blended with 1 tablespoon water (for glaze)
Directions:
1. Open and unroll the croissants onto a cookie sheet.
2. Place a small amount of the chocolate chips on the larger end of the triangle, and a tad bit of butter
3. Starting at the large end, roll up your croissants like you normally would. (Your chocolate chips may start to fall out, so go slowly and just push them back in.)
4. Curve your croissants into a half moon shape.
5. If you want to use the egg glaze just brush it over the tops of your croissants prior to baking
6. Follow the baking instructions on the Pillsbury Dough pkg.
7. Let them cool for a few minutes, but make sure you serve them warm.
And there you have it. Pain Au Chocolate with an American twist. There are some more authentic and elegant recipes online, but this is quick and easy, and like I said before, kid friendly. Well I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.
BON APPETIT everyone!!!!

Ward Halloween Party

2008-10-18T16:24:00.004-06:00

Today was our ward Halloween party, and being on the activity committee I must admit I wasn't exactly excited for it. We as a committee had to change the date twice and the time three times, and being UEA weekend we really weren't sure how many families would be in town to come. To top it off I had two sick kids, Katie and Ben both woke up in the night throwing up. It really couldn't have happened at a more inconvenient time (but with kids, you'd think I'd remember that they rarely do things when it's convenient). I do think that this just maybe the 24 hour kind thank goodness. John and I were suppose to be at the ward at 10:30 this morning to get things set up. Ethan had slept over to a friends last night but was told to be home by 10:30am. He finally got home just after 11:00. We rushed to the church got everything set up, came back home to grab the chili we made and get everyone in their costumes. Ben was feeling much better but Katie wasn't and didn't want to be home alone so we dragged her along with the promise she would get to close to anyone and she wasn't required to eat anything. The party went off without a hitch and more people came that we had thought. Everyone dined on chili, chicken noodle soup, creamy potato soup, and corn bread. We had cooking decorating for the kids mainly, a fishing pond full of prizes, a costume parade and trunk or treat. I think it really turned out good. It took about an hour or so to get it all cleaned up after and thanks to the few who stayed to help clean up. We love any kind of help we can get! Our next party is the Christmas party and scheduled for December 6th where we are thinking of doing a breakfast.

Volcano Eruption Day

2008-10-16T10:56:00.004-06:00

So yesterday was the day for the 5th grade volcano eruptions. The entire 5th grade participated which consists of four classes. They had two kids from each class come up to the table to set up and erupt at a time. Good think we were outside however because the kids used vinegar to help in the eruptions and boy did it smell, well like strong vinegar. It was a lot of fun and the kids really enjoyed themselves. John was even able to come and see (which was a huge surprise). As you can see I realized later that I needed to turn my camera and I did, but since the video editting doesn't let me change the direction its kinda bumpy, so sorry about the bumpiness. :)

Kindergarten Fieldtrip

2008-10-15T11:22:00.007-06:00

I had the rare opportunity to go on a field trip with Taylor's class. It was a walking field trip to the fire station. I was able to bring Ben along so it worked out perfectly. Even though the fire station is pretty close to the school it was a long walk especially for the kindergartners. We had many that lagged behind most of the time. Thankfully we had MANY volunteers for this field trip. That helped a lot. While we were having the field trip a call came into the station and and firemen needed to leave. Usually that would end the field trip but luckily one of the dads that came along was a fireman. He didn't work at that station house but was able to continue the "tour" of a fire truck. The kids had fun and were very tired walking back to the school.

Volcano Project

2008-10-14T10:21:00.007-06:00

The fifth graders have been given the project of building a volcano and having it erupt. I was always hoping that this wasn't anything that my kids would have to do, however here we are having to do it and is worth 50 points and will be graded on creativity. I must admit it made me think of that episode of the Brady Bunch where I think it was Peter who had to build an erupting volcano (that dates me now, huh?). After changing his mind at least a dozen times, Ethan decided to build his out of salt dough. We ended up having to triple the recipe to get it big enough. We made two batches of brown and one of green and with the idea from Cathy we added a scent to the dough,we made it mint. Ethan's job was to get it all "built" while I was gone to dance with Miss Taylor. I stopped at Zims crafts (for those who like Zims they are closing their store as of Nov. 1st)to pick up some miniatures to add to the mountain side of his project. I got him some houses, people (they are kinda giant size, but I know Ethan and he would love to see all the people get covered in lava), and a bunch of animals. Thankfully, Ethan did have it all done before I got home. Tomorrow is the day to make to volcanoes erupt. Should be good and I hope it all works out and I'll hopefully have some pictures of video of the days events.

Vote to save our FAMILIES!

2008-10-09T17:36:00.002-06:00

I was shocked to hear what had happened to this family. I too would have been outraged had this happen to us. I firmly believe that marriage is between a man and woman and marriage should only be reconized in that respect. I am sorry if that offends anyone, but I know without doubt that it is what our Lord intended.

One Flaw in Women

2008-10-05T20:03:00.013-06:00

I read this story and thought how true... So I thought I would share it with everyone.

One Flaw in Women

By the time the Lord made woman, He was into his sixth day of working overtime. An angel appeared and said, "Why are you spending so much time on this one?" And the Lord answered, "Have you seen my spec sheet on her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic, have over 200 movable parts, all replaceable and able to run on diet coke and leftovers, have a lap that can hold four children at one time, have a kiss that can cure anything?from a scraped knee to a broken heart -and she will do everything with only two hands." The angel was astounded at the requirements. "Only two hands!? No way! And that's just on the standard model? That's too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish." "But I won't, " the Lord protested. "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart. She already heals herself when she is sick AND can work 18 hour days." The angel moved closer and touched the woman. "But you have made her so soft, Lord." "She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish." "Will she be able to think?", asked the angel. The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate." The angel then noticed something, and reaching out, touched the woman's cheek. "Oops, it looks like you have a leak in this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one." "That's not a leak," the Lord corrected, "that's a tear!" "What's the tear for?" the angel asked. The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her pain, her disappointment, her love, her loneliness, her grief and her pride." The angel was impressed. "You are a genius, Lord. You thought of everything! Woman is truly amazing." And she is! Women have strengths that amaze men. They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy. They smile when they want to scream. They sing when they want to cry. They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous. They fight for what they believe in. They stand up to injustice. They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution. They go without so their family can have. They go to the doctor with a frightened friend. They love unconditionally. They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards. They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding. Their hearts break when a friend dies. They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left. They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart. Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors. They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you. The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning. They bring joy, hope and love. They have compassion and ideals. They give moral support to their family and friends. Women have vital things to say and everything to give.

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE TINY FLAW IN WOMEN, IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-03T20:55:00.006-06:00

So, today was our annual trip to the pumpkin patch. J&J Gardens has an annual free hayride and they take you to their pumpkin patch where you can pick your own pumpkins off the vine. Ethan chose to play at his friends house and not to come with us, so Kate was able to bring her friend Lexi along.

Ben was a bit nervous on the hayride, but was all warmed up by the time we reached the pumpkin patch. We have only one rule for the pumpkin patch, and that is you can only pick a pumpkin that you yourself can carry. Mom and Dad cannot carry six pumpkins at once and keep kids in toe too. The kids seemed to find their pumpkins quite quickly. John the pumpkin king was on his yearly quest to find the perfect pumpkin for whatever design he has planned out to carve this year. He really enjoys creating his master piece every year. We sometimes make him carve ours too, after we have picked which design we like. I usually get the job of gutting the poor pumpkins, then I roast the seeds. Yummy.

We had lots of fun until it started pouring rain on us. Luckily by that time we were on the hayride back to the parking lot to head to our car.

HSM3!

2008-10-01T20:51:00.004-06:00

High School Musical 3 opens in 23 days and counting if you are Katie and Taylor. My girls just love those movies, and after seeing (or hearing them when I'm lucky to get away) the first two over a zillion times, of course they are doing a count down to the third movie. Katie keeps begging me to take her opening weekend. She has it all worked out in her mind that we will go, invite a friend or two (ahhh whatever...), go to dinner if we go opening night or go to lunch if we go Saturday then off to the movie. To say she is excited for it would be an understatement. Now more than likely we will take them at some point, but opening weekend? Only if I am insane!

What Twlight Character are you?

2008-09-30T13:49:00.003-06:00

Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!

You are thoughtful and care very deeply for your family. A loving home is of great
importance to you and you always try to make people feel welcome. Although you have a great capacity to love, you also have a great capacity to hurt, so at times you can be
sensitive. You're firm when you need to be, but people trust your judgment and
appreciate the kind way you always handle things.

Happy Birthday!

2008-09-29T15:38:00.002-06:00

On Saturday Cathy celebrated her 35th birthday for the fifth time. Her Mother-in-law threw her a surprise party. It was really nice, and I thought I would share some photos. Happy Birthday Sassy! Hope you had fun!

Quirks

2008-09-27T12:00:00.002-06:00

So, in reading other blogs about quirks, got me thinking about some of my own. At first I couldn't really think of any, but I knew I had some. Finally they came to me like a flowing waterfall so to speak. I thought I would share a few, so sit back and laugh with me....

While I am talking on the phone I must be constantly moving. I wonder from room to room and back again over and over during my whole conversation. I've bee known to walk around the kitchen table a few times at least, go up the hall and perch on my bed for a minute, then off to the living room to sit a spell, then I'm back again to the TV room/ kitchen to then turn around and wonder some place else. Sometime I even end up outside on the porch or walking around the outside of the house.

I absolutely can say I hate when lights are left on and no one is in the room. It drives me batty! I am constantly turning off lights and have been known to follow the culprits around and turn off the lights behind them. I have even resorted to threatening to take out light bulbs if they don't start turning off lights on their own.

Now you may not know this by looking in my house on any given day, but I can't stand messes! I am constantly cleaning after someone, with no avail. I have imposed a "MOM CLEAN" standard for the kids. There is clean then there is Mom clean. I can't say they like it, but it can help get a job done the right way or I will throw it away.

I sleep very strange. I absolutely have to have my backside completely covered up when sleeping. I can't have it poking out even a little bit. Now that may not sound to strange but I can't have my feet covered up. I can't stand hot feet. Needless to say, it makes sleeping interesting especially when I need to share the covers.

So now that we have established, how I sleep there is even a quirk to my quirk. Well, as you recall I can't have my feet covered while sleeping, but I also can't have them hanging off the bed. I have came to the conclusion, that I must have seriously been tortured by my brothers as a child, because to this day I swear something will grab my feet (the under the bed monster, thank you very much) if they are dangling off. Thank you, Cathy for helping me figure out why my feet, legs, and arms CAN'T hang over the side of the bed especially while I am sleeping. She to has the same quirk.

Well, really I could go on, but I think I have given enough for now for you to enjoy. Maybe another day I will share more. Now I really would like to hear from others about their quirks... Like Brook, Stacy well everyone, really.....

Picture day

2008-09-21T21:01:00.003-06:00

This evening we took the kids to a nature reserve type park to take some much over due pictures of the kids. I am usually really good at getting their pictures done every year around their birthdays. This year I really slacked off. Ben's birthday was in January and Ethan's was in March. I did do good for Katie since she was getting baptised. Taylor hasn't had her birthday yet so, I was still good on her. While taking individual picture we also did a few group pictures with the kids. In all I took over 100 pictures! Thank goodness for digital cameras! It was really nice. I think I may already have my Christmas card picture in there somewhere!

A slow weekend

2008-09-15T10:44:00.002-06:00

What a nice weekend when you can pretty much relax. That would have been our weekend, if I hadn't decided it's time to start Christmas shopping. I know it's a bit early, but I wanted to get a jump start on it for a couple of reasons.

1. I have four kids to buy for

2. It will be here quicker that we think

3. If I get most of it done by Thanksgiving, I won't be in the mad house with everyone else, and I can sit and relax enjoying the season (without being in the over crowded stores, usually sold out on that "had to have gift")

I'm not into buying my Christmas decorations and such yet, there are two other holidays to consider before, but the present factor can be done at any time. When Ethan and Katie were little I was really on the ball and had 90% of everything I needed by October/November. I'm tired of the rush I have placed upon myself the last couple of years and I am determined to be better prepared this year. I want to be able to get lost this year in the Spirit of the season and not worrying about who is getting what. This year we are doing a very "scaled" down Christmas, and we will spread more time with family and the True meaning of Christmas.

I am blessed with awesome kids, who do know the true meaning, but could still us more. We use to pick a Tree Angel off a tree and help provide a child who is less fortunate than us. We are hoping this year we can start that tradition again. So, I'm off to a good start. Hopefully I'll be able to continue with it.

This weekend we also spent some time at J&J Nursery to find bulbs to plant in our front yard that would bloom in the spring and summer months. Now that's thinking ahead for us! Too bad I didn't do that for Halloween... I've haven't even started that one and its only a little more than a month away.....

What Kind of car are you?-John

2008-09-12T16:24:00.003-06:00

I'm a Chevrolet Corvette!

You're a classic - powerful, athletic, and competitive. You're all about winning the race and getting the job done. While you have a practical everyday side, you get wild when anyone pushes your pedal. You hate to lose, but you hardly ever do.

Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.

What Kind of car are you?

2008-09-12T16:16:00.000-06:00

I'm a Mercedes SLK!

You appreciate the finer things in life. You have a split personality - wild or conservative, depending on your mood. Wherever you go, you like to travel first class. Luxury, style, and fun - who could ask for more?

Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.

Can one LOVE their garage?

2008-09-10T16:06:00.004-06:00

I posed the question: Can one love their garage?, because I think I might actually love mine. Silly I know, but here's the story. As you may be aware of I was lucky to be "away" from it all this last Saturday. While I was gone, John got the itching to clean out our garage. To say that it was messy is an understatement of a lifetime. We had stuff that we had been neglecting to take to the DI for ages, let alone every ones bikes and scooters and such, as well as pegboard John got probably a year ago from his brother, we hardly had the space for our van, you get the idea! John pulled everything out and cleaned it. He swept the floors, hung up pegboard, and filled the van to the top with things to take to the DI and even took the stuff there. What cause this sudden "I should really clean this out"? Who knows! But I love it! Everything has a place and even space for the van. No more hitting the door of the van on the side of the garage! Now, if only I could get the basement cleaned out.......

BIKER BABE or WHAT?

2008-09-06T17:34:00.009-06:00

Biker babe or what? If the answer is or what I don't want to know. Today I had the opportunity to be my Dads passenger on his motorcycle, and go up to Peach Days in Brigham City.

Here we are right before we left, about 7:20 am

We left around 7:30-ish this morning from my parents house in Sandy (Mom followed in the Mustang), and we met up with a few other motorcyclist, then headed our way to Brigham City. The ride was nice and cool at 5o degrees, however by the time we reached Brigham City I was cold! I thought I was bundled up quite nicely.The cool air on my face felt nice during the ride though. Once in Brigham City, we need to register the motorcycle and the Mustang for the car/motorcycle show. The line seemed to go on forever, yet in the mean time I was able to warm up. Then off to the park to line up the motorcycle and Mustang. By now it was in the mid-fifties and felt great. When we had everything all squared away at the park we went to look at the other cars that were there. There were some PRETTY nice cars up there (see below for more pictures)! So, being that it was Peach Days, we had to have some fresh peach pie. OOOhhh!! Can you say yummy? I absolutely love peaches and that pie was to die for! I am already wishing for a little more! We made it back just before 4pm and what fun I had. It was so great to be able to share the ride with my Dad and be able to enjoy Peach Days with my Mom and Dad without my kids, or even worrying about what they were doing. It was a much needed and welcome break, and fun to boot!

My Week

2008-09-03T09:54:00.004-06:00

Last week, John turned the big 4-0. We decided to celebrate this milestone on Saturday, and invited family to come over for cake and ice cream. No we didn't put 40 candles on his cake, instead we put a sparkler candle on. John likes to joke that he talked to our neighbor who is a fireman, and he told John it would be a fire hazard to have that many candles lit at once. John is forever the comedian! Emily, Johns sister, made that cake. It was yummy! Thanks Emily!!

To get ready for Johns party we spent a lot of time in our yard to get it presentable. In doing so, I aggravated my "condition". I have what doctors call costcondritis. Basically its the swelling of the ligaments between my breast plate and rib cage. And YES it does hurt, but I have lived with this my whole life and I never really know what is going to set it off. It could be a simple as vacuuming, or even just waking up the stairs. But life must continue and I usually press on. This time my pain was so bad John insisted I see a doctor. So, Saturday morning we went to the doctor and even had x-rays done. They put me one two medications, one is a muscle relaxer and the other an anti-inflammatory. Both can cause dizziness and the muscle relaxer causes sleepiness. Needless to say I honestly don't remember Saturday or Sunday very well.

On Sunday, it was the fifth Sunday so it was a combined Priesthood and Relief Society meeting. Those are my favorite, because I get to be with my honey all day and get to use his suit jacket to keep myself warm. They keep that room so cold it feels like a freezer! I don't remember to much of the meeting, but I do remember them talking about needing volunteers to index census reports at www.familysearchindexing.org (you don't need to be a member to be able to do this either). This held some interest to me, because you can work at your own pace and with whatever time you have.

Monday, being Labor Day, and raining cats and dogs for the first half of the day, John and I decided to get the much needed new tires on the front of our van. We took it to Sams Club and got a really good deal until they left their impact wrench on the lug nut and they backed our car out and bang. They originally thought the impact wrench had fallen. With inspection (after we had left mind you), another words they went to use it and saw our lug nut in it. They gave us call and will be paying to have the lug nut repaired $85.00. They don't fix those so, they are sending me to an auto shop to have it fixed. I take it in tomorrow (Thursday). I have to admit I wasn't to thrilled about them breaking the lug nut, but I am impressed that they called me and took responsibility for it. I must commend them for that.

Tuesday. Taylor finally had her first REAL day of kindergarten. She seems to like it okay. She is a bit shy and says she only has one friend in her class. I told her that will all soon change I'm sure. She does have friends in other classes so, that helps at recess. Although, she was being chased by her friend McKinley, ans she fell down banging up both of her knees pretty bad. She said she didn't even cry. That impressed me quite a bit, it looked painful. She has resorted to not bend her legs. It's quite funny seeing her try and sit on the floor. She just kinda drops down with a big THUD. I told her it would her her less if she would just bend, but she won't. I also started indexing. They have a training course online to help you out. I was able to index 320 names! I was impressed with myself, mainly because some of those records are HARD to read. My goal is to dedicate a couple of hours a couple of days a week if not more.

Today was walk to school day. I usually drive them, because I refuse to let them walk on busy Gordon. So, today we got moving a bit earlier and walked to school. It takes 20 minutes to walk to the school from our house. I forgot how long that seemed until we were walking. I had Ben in the stroller, which made it easier until Taylor got tired and wanted in the stroller. Luckily, the stroller has the option of letting someone stand on the back. Wow what a workout for me! I have a "beautiful" blister on my toe to prove it. I was thankful that it was only Ben that I needed to push home. That was better. All in all round trip was about 50 minutes (I had to take Taylor to her class, she isn't comfortable yet finding it herself).

As for school the kids are doing great. Ethan loves his class and has an awesome teacher, Mr. Sanders, who is fresh out of college and is his first year teaching his own class. He is really young and seems to be able to relate to his class very well. Katie is doing well, but it seems her motivation is lacking. Hopefully in the next couple of weeks she will find it. Taylor likes kindergarten and loves her teacher Mrs. Gardner. She is an awesome teacher. Very bubbly.

That brings us all up to date.

Katies discouraging first day back to dance

2008-08-29T11:34:00.007-06:00

So, last night was Katies day to go back to dance. She was excited all day. She loves dance almost as much as she loves school. So, as she and I went off to dance. Meanwhile, John had a chance to have a brief view of what my life is like when I have all the kids and have to go places (however he was down one since I had Katie). He took the other three to Back to School Night. I had to laugh, because usually I get the short end of the stick!
Back to Katie, this year in dance she will be doing ballet, tap and jazz. It is harder and faster than previous years and in May she will try out for juniors. Last night was hard and Katie got very discouraged, close to tears and already wanted to quit. I had to remind her of last years first day back and she had wanted to quit then too, but with more classes and practicing at home she had once again found her love for dance. I also reminded her that if it wasn't challenging she would grow bored with it, and I have not and will not make her take dance. She is old enough now to make those decisions her big self. So, we met with a compromise, she will dance this term and be in the Christmas show and if she decides she doesn't like it then we won't sign up next term if that is her choice. She is a good dancer but she lacks the confidence in herself, no matter how many praises we give her. She has the potential to go far with this if she chooses, I'd hate to see her give this up, partly because she has been dancing since she was three and she is really good when her mind is set to it, but also she keeps telling me she wants to be a dancer and a dance teacher when she grows up. However, it is her choice and I will support whatever she decides. Her teacher told the whole class that this year will be hard and they may shed many tears but she has known each of these girls since they were three and know with practice they all can do it. And I know it too. Now its up to the girls to believe in themselves.

First Day of School and Dance

2008-08-26T19:35:00.004-06:00

The first day of school finally rolled around. I think I was just as happy or maybe even more so than the kids. I love school! I love kids in school! I was happy that my kids were looking forward to this day. Unfortunately, the first day was an early out day and within an hour of them being home I was wishing to send them back! Taylor's real first day will be Tuesday since she is starting Kindergarten. Yesterday she only had to go 40 minutes and today she went for her testing. Also, with the start of school means that dance has started up again too. Taylor started last night. She loves her class. She may have been more excited for dance than school. Katie will be starting dance on Thursday night. She is really looking forward to it. They will be having a Christmas show December 13 and 15 (more to come later on those).

Katie

Ethan

Taylor

at Dance

Hill Airforce Base Museum

2008-08-23T19:49:00.001-06:00

After five years living in Layton, we finally took the kids to Hill AirForce Base Museum today. There was so much to see and the kids all had lots of fun, even Katie who is sick again with strep.

New hairdo's

2008-08-21T22:56:00.005-06:00

So, with everyone better again, (yes thankfully Ben is all better and it only took 3 days) it was time to get haircuts for the kids. They start school on Monday. HURRAH! I don't sound excited do I? I admit it will be strange and I will miss them, but it is so time for them to go back. Taylor is starting Kindergarten and that will be strange for me but she is SO excited. Ethan is going into fifth grade and we found out tonight that one of the biggest bullies he dealt with last year has change school! RELIEF! Katie will be in third grade and will be pulled out a couple of times a week during class to attend SEM. She is super smart and gets bored easy, so this will hopefully will be a good challenge for her. Any way here are a few pictures of their new haircuts:

Taylor before

Taylor after

Katie wanted banges

Ethan

Cute kids

Thanks Kelley for the nice haircuts!

8 hours later: (see previous)

2008-08-16T12:51:00.005-06:00

Yeah my baby doesn't look to good does he? He looks so pathetic, it makes me sad :(. Hopefully within the next couple of days he will be all better.