Scribble Scrabble

The 3 C's

2012-02-08T08:18:00.000-08:00

For the last few years I've been trying to pick a word or phrase for me to focus on for the New Year. Sadly, I never find my inspiration right at the new year. As is the case this time. But, I've found my word(s): the 3 C's.

A friend shared this idea of the 3 C's. It's based on Dale Carnegie's teachings (check it out here.) At first I scoffed, but it stuck in my head and wouldn't let go. I'm really anxious to see how it will change ME.

The challenge is to NOT: Criticize, Condemn, Complain. Can you imagine your day not doing any of these things??? How will it affect relationships??? Can you imagine this with kids??? Or seeing your kids focus on the 3 C's challenge for themselves??? Just the negativity that will leave your thoughts and world. The goal is to go 21 days avoiding the 3 C's. Each time I fall, I change which arm my bracelet is on. My friend said the person that inspired him did accomplish the 21 day goal ... it took him 10 months. Ha! I'll see if I can accomplish such a feat this year.

Family LOVE

2012-02-02T09:40:00.000-08:00

When life gets too busy to document, it's nice when that busyness is due to things you love. We took a day off of school in January for a weekend road trip to Utah. Brian's brother moved there this last year, and we are so glad to have family closer. Their oldest son just returned from his 2 year mission to Brazil. He is an amazing young man. He is open and friendly, kind and thoughtful, funny and fun loving. He is spiritual and has a special light that not all of us have. He also has no clue how awesome he is. Jonathan gets it. Jon has felt a close connection to Ben from the first time they met. When Ben left for his mission, Jon made us PROMISE we would go where ever they were to welcome him home. We are so glad we went.

Well ... for the most part. Ben has always been a 49's fan. When he realized they were playing a play off game the weekend he got back, we were all warned that football would be part of the plan. We're not big fans of football ... until this weekend. Now Jon is HOOKED! He wants to watch every game and even asked if he could play next year. We'll see how far that goes.

This isn't a great picture, but it's the only one we got with everyone all together. Ben is the 2nd one in the back from the left. He had so many companions and friends come see him. It was fun to hear all the Portuguese and feel the love of the reunion of family and friends. His homecoming talk at church was really good. He seemed nervous at the beginning, but then he went into "teaching mode" and bore his testimony with ease and sincerity.

Taylor, the first boy on the left in the back row, is getting set to leave for his mission this summer. I'm so stinkin' proud of these boys. So grateful for the example they are giving my kids. And excited to see what kind of men they become after serving the Lord for 2 years.

Pinterest Project LOVE

2012-02-01T09:20:00.000-08:00

It has been so long since I've gotten on the blogosphere. I'm not even sure if many people are reading through blogs much anymore. I love reading through old posts and remembering little times in our lives. I enjoy reading what others are doing and keeping that connection. So, I'll continue to post ... when there's time.

So, what takes all my time??? Well, my previous post about Primary is one thing. In fact, I had to quit my little craft group because I couldn't deal with any more deadlines. I still need to have moments of creativity, so I found a new love ... PINTEREST -- (let me know if you need an invite!) Who comes up with these brilliant things??? I find it possible to waste so much time finding all sorts of things I OUGHT to be doing. Ha!

Here is my first Pinterest project. The ultimate Menu Board. I think it's going to be a big time saver. I spend hours each week planning my meals which includes finding the recipes so I can make up a shopping list. This is going to be AWESOME. Each card is a dinner and on the back side is a simple list of ingredients that I need. The yellow ones are basic "everyday" recipes, the green is for "crock pot" meals, and the pink are "Sunday" or "special" dinners. On the night I make the meal, I can find the recipe quick. It's cheaper and easier than before. The family knows what's coming up, and if I'm late getting dinner going, the kids can see what is planned and they can get going on it. The whole project only cost about $9. It adds so much personality to my kitchen, too. So fun!!!

Primary Adventures

2012-01-31T09:02:00.000-08:00

CTR = "Choose the Right"

For most of my adult life I have been working with the Young Women in my church. That includes girls from 12-18. It is a very time consuming position, and so awesome. I love the teenage phase of life. They are so smart and open to learning new things. I've always been impressed with the girls I've worked with. I cried when they told me it was time to move on to a different position.

At first I was called to work with the 8-11 year old girls in their Activity Days program. It is a much less time consuming position, and so fun. It's all about fun! And I was also asked to head the Humanitarian Projects for the stake. That one really intrigued me and was right up my alley. I love service projects, and to work with all the ladies in the entire stake would have been AWESOME! I say "would have been" cuz they only left me in those 2 callings for 1 1/2 months. Without realizing my positions, the Bishop came by to ask if I would take on a new responsibility. HUH!?

I was called to be the Primary President ... over the children's program in the church. All children from 18 months - 11 years old. Including the staffing of Sunday School classes, Cub Scouts, and Activity Days Girls. I've never worked in primary. This is COMPLETELY new and COMPLETELY unexpected.

I'm still knee deep in learning everything that is needed to be done. People have been so patient. The kids are so sweet and bright. I'm LOVING it so far. There is a special feeling when teaching little ones the basics of the gospel. I'm so grateful to be where I am today.

Puter Time

2011-11-02T11:28:00.001-07:00

Today I did just enough house work to allow myself to play on the computer without guilt. I'm not talking "company is coming" clean, but good enough that I wouldn't be terribly embarrassed if someone showed up unannounced (no floor inspections, please).

I have number of holiday projects in mind, along with other computer related tasks that I HAVE to get going. I also wanted to play with "pinterest" and wanted to have time to surf fun sites. Today is my day. I'll take a couple minutes to update:

Baby Quilt -

A sweet friend had a baby this year. It was her first girl, 4th kiddo. Aubrey and I wanted to do something special, so we made this quilt. Aubrey picked out the fabric because it was bright and fun. It is a basic rag quilt, extra large (as both the parents are soooo tall it is guaranteed that this girl will be long). It was fun to do a craft project with Bree.

Band-

Brandon has been enjoying high school quite a lot. Getting everything done has been a struggle, but overall it's been very positive. He is playing the bari-sax in marching band and LOVES it. Great kids, automatic friends, football games. Right now the season is winding down and he's been extra busy every weekend with tournaments. We don't get to spend much time with him right now, but it's sooo worth it. Here he is after playing the Poway Days Parade.

Biz Town -

Jon had a great field trip this year to Biz Town where he had the opportunity to take on a job, understand a checking account, and learn about business loans. He had to interview for 3 job choices. He was picked to be the town's Judge. He loved it. He was interviewed in the Biz town TV station, was able to try 3 cases (mostly students caught running), and other responsibilities. Such a great experience!!!

Brian and I have both gone through church calling changes. He's now 1st Counselor in the Elders Quorum and gets lots of opportunities to visit members of the ward. I've sadly been released from the Young Women (after 4 years). I was called to work with the Activity Girls (8-9 year old girls) and also as Stake Humanitarian specialist. With both callings, I get to work with some pretty neat people. It has been quite a change for me to adjust to, but I'm enjoying it all.

Jon turns 10!

2011-10-04T07:55:00.000-07:00

Jonathan - my brown eyed boy!

Jon chose to go to Universal Studios to celebrate his big day. We went last week when school was out, and used our passes from last year. Made for a great day!

Family shot on the tour tram.

Jon & Aubrey have wanted to do this for a long time. They turned out soooo cute!

Jon is treating his class to some "rocking" Ding Dongs.

I was looking through some old pictures of the kids when they were little. My heart melted into a pile of goo. It shocks me how quickly they have grown, and how sweet they are. Jon is still a shy little guy, with big dreams. He is a smart tart, with a tender heart. He is a kid I never have to worry about "doing the right thing". He is a friend to everyone ... once he gets out of his shell. His innocence in endearing. J-Dawg, we love you! Have a fabulous birthday!!!

What's New???

2011-09-02T11:30:00.001-07:00

I haven't been as "on top of it" as I thought I'd be once the kids got back into the routine of school. I ended up getting pretty sick and not doing ANYTHING! Now that I'm feeling better I find that I miss my excuse to sit around reading books. HA! So, here's a quick review of what's been going on here in the last week:

The 1st Day of School -

Brandon started High School in great spirits. He spent the final week of summer vacation at the school all day long with Marching Band Camp. He got to know a lot of the other kids and felt right at home on campus. He's also started early morning seminary (a scripture study class that meets everyday before school). He seems a bit tired, but is enjoying both the social and spiritual parts of the program.

Aubrey, 7th grade at middle school. She was ready to get back to school to hang out with friends. She had some scheduling issues, but now is loving her classes and teachers.

Jon, 5th grade at elementary school. He is happy to be "big man on campus", but I think he'd be happy with a few more weeks of summer. We were so busy this summer, we never had a chance to get bored. We are all ready for a vacation. :)

Foster Kitties -

Snuggles, Socks, Ninja, & Fuzzball

These are the shyest kittens we've ever fostered in our home. They are dang cute, but haven't had enough socialization with people. We work overtime to help them get over that. It's a tough job cuddling and playing with them, but it's a sacrifice we're willing to make. We'll introduce them to Chance in the next couple of days. They are progressing really fast!

Socks likes to just hang out in the scale bowl everyday when I weigh them. It looks like the other cats are taking note on his weight gain. HA!

Cub Scouts -

Not a great picture, but Jon earned his Bear last week. He is loving scouts and looking forward to becoming a Webelo this fall when he turns 10.

Summer Days

2011-08-19T13:05:00.000-07:00

What I love about summer:

Brian took the kids to the beach last weekend and gave me a few hours to play at the So Cal Shop Hop. This was only Brian's second time at the beach all summer. They had a blast.

School starts next week. Maybe then I can catch up on blogging. :)

Kitten Season

2011-07-25T11:56:00.000-07:00

With Spring and Summer come lots of kittens that are abandoned or unwanted.

We can't adopt any more kitties, but we can help out by fostering them until they are big enough to get fixed and are ready for adoption. These 3 look-alike sisters are part of a bigger litter. They are only ounces away from being ready for adoption. They are so cute.

This one is forever hanging out on the keyboard. Even when someone is playing music, she seems right at home!

They seem so calm now. For the first hour they got here, they practiced their "scaredy cat" Halloween impression. They kept jumping at each other and hissing. So funny. They hardly ever stop to sleep. Brandon and Jon have been sleeping with them every night ... and regularly get attacked when the kittens get their energy built up. The kids love having them here!

Family Moments

2011-07-18T09:43:00.001-07:00

This last week has been the first of our summer vacation that we didn't have a camp or schedule to follow. I'll be posting pictures of all the kids' activities soon. We've had some really happy family moments and some pretty devastating ones.

Milestone

One of our nephews, Taylor, graduated from High School this summer. Though it was belated, I wanted to send him a card. Right after graduating he found out his entire family will have to move to Utah with only about a month's warning. Their life is cRaZy right now. We wanted him to know we love him and find a simple way to celebrate his moment.

Sorrow

Then we got an email that crushed all of our hearts. Our niece, Deirdre Wetzker Aguigui , passed away. Completely out of the blue. SHOCKING!!! She was young and pregnant with her first baby. She had joined the military and had learned Arabic in order to serve as a translator. Smart girl. Emotional girl. Sweet, giving girl. She died due to a blood clot in her lung. It was a complication of her pregnancy. So random, so tragic.

I made this card for her parents. I really like the sentiment: "May you find peace and love in the memories you cherish." It makes you just want to hold on to every moment you have with your family members. Take those pictures and create those memories that can stay with you for a lifetime.

We took the kids to the temple for Family Home Evening this week. We just walked around and allowed the kids to talk about their cousin, what they were feeling and any questions they had about death and what happens now. Deirdre, we love you and will hold tight to the memories we will always cherish.

Deirdre Wetzker Aguigui

Chiffonade: what and why

2011-06-27T21:55:00.000-07:00

This summer we have made a goal for each of the kids to learn to cook some of their favorite meals. Aubrey asked to make this soup.

Basil is a pretty significant ingredient in this soup. I thought it was a great time to teach Aubrey how to "chiffonade" the basil (translated from French: "made of rags"). It is a pretty simple technique. Though it is a little time consuming, it is a safe way to cut it up. This is where things took a bad turn.

I cut up a whole plant of basil the correct way with just a couple of left over leaves. I grabbed up the stragglers and instead of stacking and rolling them up to cut, I just started cutting. As the picture shows, I missed the leaf at some point.

The doctor said that the nail slowed the knife and saved the tip of my finger. It will know act as a splint to hold the finger together until it heals. You can't see it very well, but the cut goes around the back of the finger too.

I would say it was a successful lesson for Aubrey. She not only knows HOW to chiffonade, but also WHY. She cut the other plant of basil while Brian and I were at the urgent care. :)

A House Divided

2011-06-16T10:23:00.000-07:00

I'm realizing that our family is in big trouble. I have my handy dandy little camera that I take pictures with, and Brian has his awesome big camera he takes pictures with. Then we both have computers we prefer working on. The result of all that is I have some of the family pictures on my computer while he has others on his. So, today I will share a little that is going on, but then I'll have to fish out some of the life event pictures from his computer (it's always a bit more tricky) for a later entry.

Bridge Re-Build ... COMPLETE!

When we bought the house, the bridge was old and rotted. I asked Brian if we could pay someone to fix it this summer, but he thought it would be a great project for the family. It turned out AWESOME, and the kids learned a lot. It took more time, but he was right in making it a family affair.

Certificate of Merit - Piano

This year Jon experienced his first round of "Certificate of Merit" evaluation. He was nervous to perform in front of a strange "judge" who couldn't give him much feedback. Still he did well under pressure and got 100% on his theory test which earned him a music trophy. He says he loves piano, but still plans to start up trombone next year in 5th grade band. My hopes of having one kid stick with piano are all but dashed. Still, they all love hearing and playing music. In the end, that's what counts.

Father - Son Camp Out

Ok, so I said I take pictures with the little camera ... except if there is camping involved. Then Brian takes my little one. :)

They went to Dixon Lake. I love that camp area. I don't know why Brandon is aiming for the guy in the center, but I'm sure it's all innocent boy games, right?!

One of the games they played was "volleyball" with this huge air filled soccer ball. No rules, you could use anything to get that ball over the net. The kids loved it!

Cub Scout Camp - "How to Train a Knight"

One of Jon's favorite activities at Cub Scout camp is archery. Jon got himself a bull's eye the second day shooting. I was his Den Leader for 2 days this week and those boys were soooo fun!

Bits of Happy

2011-05-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

Do you ever find that some of the most random things can just bring a smile to your face? Here are a few of my favorite things ... for today (I'm a fickle gal).

Fish in Our Pond
We have about 25-30 fish right now. This is a photo of their feeding frenzy. They are just so fun and peaceful to watch.

Chancey Sitting in the Flowers
I have no idea why he likes to lay in these flowers, but every time I go out to pull weeds or work in the pool area, he just lounges. Such a cutie!

Challenge Accepted
The challenge for our craft group this last month was the "shadow box". I was stuck for a long time because it was to be something for our own homes. I do better when I think I will be giving my creations away. Anyway, this is our family "mantra" this year. So I thought I'd include all the big things that we're focusing our goals on. The top left corner is my Young Women's medallion that I earned as a teen (Aubrey is just starting the Personal Progress program at church with the goal to earn her own), top right are little tokens of college graduation, bottom left is a plaque of a missionary (note there is both Elder and Sister - just in case), and the bottom right is a medal to symbolize the Eagle Scout award. And, of course, the whole point of any of our goals is to return to our Heavenly Father, thus the picture of the temple.

I hadn't thought this message meant much to the kids since I didn't have anything up to remind them. But just last week when Brandon was telling me about some things that were happening at school, he said, "it just goes to show that decisions really do determine destiny". I don't know if everyone is getting it, but it made it's mark on one kid's brain this year. (small victory dance)

Judgment Day - Are You Prepared?

2011-05-18T12:54:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know I am not watching enough commercial TV when I totally miss a big event like this. May 21, 2011 is "Judgment Day", you know, the big Rapture. How do you decorate for a holiday like that?? How did I miss this? Did you know about this???

So, I'm torn. The radio spot I just heard told me that the Bible says it pretty clearly that the date is May 21, 2011. (I went to the website they were advertising, and it never says WHERE the date is laid out, but after "5 years of tireless study", this guy has decided on this date.) Now, I've read the entire Bible, both old and new Testament, and I've never seen that passage. I admit, I'm surely no expert on the Bible, but I've always gone with this way of thinking: Mark 13:32.

So, practically speaking, do I worry and get my food storage taken care of ... I mean, I do have 3 days to prepare! Or do I blow it off cuz we won't be needing it afterall. How important is it to do that extra load of laundry at this point??? So many projects that I've been putting off can just be left undone, right?!

I was counting on the date in December (according to the Mayan calendar) since I won't have to worry about holiday shopping this year, but could still enjoy the holiday lights. This blows my whole push for Brian to get more lights on the house this year.

I'm being rather sarcastic and rude here, but this is why I love knowing there is a living prophet on the Earth today. That he spoke just recently of the temples being built and the progress of the Lord's work. I feel at peace in a crazy world. While I probably shouldn't poke too much fun at these people who are crying "the world is ending", I will continue to prepare myself and my family to become who we have been asked to become.

And, if you're still around in 3 days, Happy May 21st!

Craft Showcase

2011-04-26T12:51:00.000-07:00

Time to show some of the fun things made at craft group this month. Our assignment was casual "thinking of you" type cards and tags of whatever theme we chose. There was another challenge, but I will have to share that in a different post.

Love the pretty color combinations here. Very nice!

Fun colors. Love the apron tag!

These next ones are fun too. Check out the matching envelope.

These final two are mine. Pretty simple, but still pretty. Aubrey helped me put on all the MANY beads. That's how we spent our General Conference weekend. :) I love "church at home" weekend. Or as we also call it: "pajama day Sunday". ha!

Sweet Baby Shower

2011-04-22T10:36:00.001-07:00

It all started when I was asked if a friend could host a baby shower at my home. We have no furniture in our front room, so there is lots of space for a party. I then turned to my 2 crafty friends and asked if they had any ideas for a cute baby shower theme. Wow! That started a great journey of all things cute!

"M", the mommy to be, is the sweetest lady. She's having baby #4 - and it's her first girl! Pink had to play a part! With it being Spring, "J" came up with the idea of "birds and nesting" as the perfect theme.

This banner is something that can be used to decorate the baby's room. What little girl doesn't fit this "Sweet" label?!

Here is the final dessert table. So pretty with the green and pinks.

"J" is always trying to learn whatever crafty thing she hasn't mastered yet. Lucky for us, she had been wanting to do a complete dessert table for a party, but hadn't had the opportunity to do one. So, she put all her creative energy in doing this one.

"J" also wanted to perfect the whole cookie decorating skill. This is her first attempt ... AMAZING! She has no learning curve. She sees what she wants to accomplish and it's done! So talented! My personal favorite are the little flowers on the wheels! So cute!

Wait, there's more. "J" also wanted to learn this technique used to sew and ruffle up these cute goodie bags. Look at how many layers are on these! What guest isn't going to feel appreciated after receiving this?!

"Thank You" Goodie Bags

Everything has to match, right?!

Lest you think I'd expect a friend ... who ended up not even being able to attend the party ... do all the work, I did make a couple of contributions to the party. I mean, I did actually clean the house. (Well, sorta ... I got the kids to do their weekend chores early. Does that count?!) Ok, how's this:

Strawberry filled cupcakes with cream cheese frosting

I used this recipe. They were so yummy and the filling was like eating strawberry ice cream. The nests on top are made with sugar cookies frosted with royal icing and dipped in toasted coconut flakes. The eggs on top are chocolate covered sunflower seeds glued on with more royal icing.

And no chick party would be complete without chocolate. Before the party even got planned, we knew that "S" would be bringing this little beauty:

Who doesn't love a chocolate fountain with all the fixin's? YUMMM!

The party was so fun, and filled with great people. I wish I had half the talent that "J" has so I could recreate this for the next shower. Ha! Ok, I have something to aspire to, right?! "M", we love you and wish you the best with your little baby girl in your new home. (Oh, did I mention that "M" is also moving out of state next week? I hope she leaves knowing that she's very well loved!)

She's 12

2011-04-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

It's easy to say I always love my kids, but there are times when I find myself fully in love with my kids. I've been feeling that lately with Aubrey! She is an amazing girl, and I'm often fascinated with her way of thinking or acts of compassion. Happy birthday, Sweet Girl!

Aubrey is more often behind the camera now that she's found a love of photography. It's harder to find pictures of her.

Aubrey at 18 months. Our first attempt at "professional" photos.

Aubrey at 2. She's mimicking me taking her picture. I LOVE this photo!

Even at 7 Aubrey always showed a bit of spunk!

Our family wouldn't be the same without this fun, peace making, fiesty, spiritual, sweet girl. Happy Birthday, Bree. So looking forward to what this year has in store for you!!!

Craft-Therapy

2011-03-09T13:11:00.000-08:00

I have had a very "off" week ... and it's only Wednesday!

Monday I received a ticket for driving without my lights in the rain. I had no idea that was an offense worthy of a ticket. Sure, a warning perhaps. I was driving below the speed limit (as indicated by the officer on the citation), and it was only spritzling, it wasn't even raining. Ugh! I'm over it!

Then on Tuesday I got bit in the face by a friend's dog. He's a little beagle, and we've met many times before. I was down at his level and he was lapping up the attention. Then all of a sudden he snapped me on the cheek. It's not a big bite. No medical attention needed. It was a big shock, though. It kinda rattled me.

So, the moral is for me NOT to leave the house. I'm staying home today and finishing up projects that need my attention ... like blogging! I never posted the crafty goodness that was created at our last craft group in February.

The assignment was to make TAGS for any occasion:

This is a deceiving picture. "J" made 2 different styles using the black and white. They are so cute and go with the b-day paper she brought to keep us coordinated as only she can. "C" made 6 different tag styles ... (overachiever! Ha!). Sadly, I haven't put them all together so I'll show the one I absolutely love! How cute is that little apron?!

These are my tags. I don't remember what was going on that week, but I didn't even get them finished. Cute paper that would have been finished off nicely with some fun baker's twine or jute.

Then we had The Challenge:

"J" found some fun packages of nature items in the dollar bin and was intrigued. Look at the variety in that one package! It was overwhelming at first.

What was most fun was to see what "J" came up with. She is not the "pretty" type of designer. She's all about cute and coordinating. Look at her card (on left) with the pretty ribbon and layers upon layers. It came out so nice. "C" was ingenious with her use of embossing (on right). So simple, but so pretty. Love them both!

I wasn't able to mass produce my cards since I used Bo Bunny paper, and couldn't find more in our area! So there was more variety in my offerings. Still I really like that paper! Very fun with very little work. Gotta love digital work!

Solution to Everything

2011-03-01T17:33:00.000-08:00

While I know I'm behind in my blogging and should be focusing on important events, today I had an almost spiritual experience that I have to share.

I have been trying to dig the creative side of my brain out of storage for some time. My craft room in our new home is a great size and works fine, but I find my craft tools just aren't as easy to get to as they were before. I need things to be at my fingertips, while right now I'm running to the garage or mudroom for certain tools. I need to be more ORGANIZED. At my wits end, I decided I had to resort to going shopping. Ugh! I hate shopping! No really! I find it to be a waste of time and hate the idea of spending money. I have to work myself up days before to accept the fact that I must go shopping. And so off I went ...

As I walked through the sliding doors, my heart started beating faster and I felt a smile form on my lips. It was the wildest thing. I actually felt my spirits lift hearing the subtle music playing on the speakers. I was so excited to walk through the aisles and giddy with anticipation at the new treasures I'd find. I'm telling you, it was the first time I started understanding my friends who talk of "shop-therapy". It was awesome!!!

What was this super store of bliss??? None other than The Container Store. I do not lie when I say I truly believe they have the solution for every one of my personal stresses right there within their brightly lit shop. I love that place! I only spent $40 in my shopping spree, but I left with a feeling of hope and conquest!

Words to Live By

2011-01-31T21:55:00.000-08:00

For the last few years I have tried to pick a word to focus my new year on. I've chosen "JOY" and last year I chose a phrase: "Do It Anyway". This year has been rather hard. It's the last day of January and I still got nothing. I just haven't felt any sort of inspiration. I almost went with "Let It Be", cuz it keeps coming back to me that I'm not really the one in control right now. I've been so focused on the family, and everyone's changing needs, that nothing seemed to fit me specifically. Like maybe, could it be (gasp!), that this year isn't going to be all about me??? (I shudder at the thought. Ha!)

This last week while I was perusing (how's that for a college word?) crafty blogs, I came across one that was discussing this very topic. Instead of doing a personal word of inspiration this lady chose a family phrase. As soon as I read it I got goose bumps all over. It is the perfect sentiment for us right now. So, for 2011, our family phrase of the year will be:

From the Jaws of Death - Literally!

2011-01-29T13:57:00.000-08:00

This little beauty was mouth delivered into our living room by one of our amazingly quick hunters. Milo, our kitty, walked in 'mrawing' (cuz that's how he sounds when he speaks with his mouth full). We knew he brought in something, but it was so bright green we weren't sure what it was. When this lizard started running across the room, we were all intrigued.

Brandon caught the little guy (name yet to be determined) and took him in the back yard. Milo was confused and rather irritated! When our dog, Chance, saw what it was he went to investigate. I think it was when the lizard clamped onto his nose - and wouldn't let go even with vigorous shaking - that I started rooting for the little guy's survival. What a feisty creature!

After some quick research on the internet and a visit to Petco, we now have a new pet. We aren't sure if he was injured by the cat hunt, and he may die tomorrow, but until then we are enjoying his funny antics. One thing we didn't know: Anoles (aka: the American chameleon) change colors when stressed. He is now in a big glass bowl awaiting his terrarium to be put together. He was a beautiful shade of green and then all of a sudden he was brown. We turned off the light next to the bowl and he instantly turned green again. So cool!

The Desire to Create

2011-01-26T08:42:00.000-08:00

The following quote is one of my favorites of all time:

"The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul. No matter our talents, education, backgrounds, or abilities, we each have an inherent wish to create something that did not exist before."
-Dieter Uchtdorf

My friend has it on her blog and every time I read it I get goose bumps and want to get back into being creative. I've been on hiatus for about 2 years and am so excited to have time to play with paper, paint, fabric, everything!!! :)

This is a new card swap group I've joined. There are only 3 of us so we decided to make 2 designs, and 6 of each one. BIG mistake. Way too much work. We won't be committing to that next month!!! Still, the results were so fun!

Here is a sample of the goods!

This is a gift card envelope. Look at the inside too. Very clever ... and super cute!

These are the 2 cards I finally put together!

It was tough to find 2 good designs in one month.

Just an inside fact. Hot air balloons are my 'good luck' charm. When I saw this stamp set, I had to buy it and was determined to make something work! I love this simple little card!

The card that didn't make the cut.

This is the first card I made. The thought of cutting out that many flowers in order to make 18 cards made me develop some facial ticks. So in the end, this one didn't make the swap cut.

Welcome to the Hive!

2011-01-15T23:22:00.000-08:00

I've been working in the Young Women program at church for a few years now. I've been moved around with the different age levels, but find myself working with the Beehives now. That is the 12-13 year old girls. When the girls turn 12 they graduate from the Primary program and move up to Young Womens. It's kinda a big deal as they are ready to move on to more "mature" pastures. Sadly, when they get there they find they have me as their leader and all hopes of maturity flitter out the window. ha!

This year we will have 5 new girls join the group. We want their birthday to be special so we are making posters to hang on their doors for them to find on their Birthday! Here is what I came up with:
Love that Walmart sells poster board with a cute border already printed on! The empty green space will be left for the girls to sign a welcoming message. The picture doesn't show the cute little flight pattern on the hive that spells out the newest girl's name. So cute! I have 11 girls in my class now and they are so excited for the new girls to join us. Aubrey will be joining the Beehives this year, so there is a lot of anticipation in our home!

What's New???

2011-01-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

Family Visits

My big brother, Danny, lives in Texas. Right now he is driving a big truck and hauling yachts all over the US. Because San Diego has such lovely ports, he has been sent here more often than ever. He doesn't always know when he's coming, nor how long he'll be staying. This year he ended up spending an entire week. We love having him here and hope our family doesn't drive him batty! We introduced him to Guitar Hero and he was hooked!

Danny & Brandon battle it out!

Band Performance

Brandon and Aubrey both performed in the holiday concert at the middle school. Aubrey's class went first and made for easier pictures. Usually we sit right in front of the band and get some shots, but this year there were soooo many more people there. We sat at the back of the gym and only got a shot of Aubrey. They both did great and they both love to play in the band. Aubrey with flute and Brandon with bari-sax.

We love that this picture included the typical middle school gym, a shot of her best friend, and the family in back. On the side you can also see her principal and band teacher.

A Beautiful Night's Sleep!

We've been married for over 15 years. And we have never agreed on a bedroom set we both liked. We've gone shopping over the years, almost came to a decision, and then (typically) I would chicken out saying we didn't need to spend the money. This year we decided we would go for it and this became our Christmas present to each other. As you can see, the room still needs help. Like a couple of pictures on the very bland walls would help. Oh well. All in time.

Merry Christmas to us!

Rock Hounds

2011-01-09T22:29:00.000-08:00

Brandon is in the middle school Science Olympiad this year. One of his events is "Fossils". He is enjoying the whole experience but wanted to get some real experience, not just rely on book learning. He did some research and found out there is an area just a few hours away known for fossil finds.

The plan was to wake up at 4:30 am and drive the 4 hours to Amboy, California (about 15 minutes past "middle of nowhere") to take advantage of the most daylight hours we could. That was the plan. The reality is that I had a bad sleep night and only got 2.5 hours of rest. Waking up at 4:30 am was NOT a happy thought. We got out of the house a little late, but Brian got us there. That was the next painful reality.

View from our first hunting spot. It was so clear we could see to Yucca.

Can you see the long black line in the distance? That's where the paved road is. Really, that's it. Brian had to kinda make his own path across the desert to the hiking trail ... in my minivan. There are so few plants and the dirt path was so packed that we could barely see the tracks from previous travelers. THEN ... yeah, it keeps going ... we had to pretty much abandon our van behind the hill there where the little arrow is pointing. We started walking what seemed to be an easy enough trail. Then it got steep.

Brian at the top of the mountain

See how steep it gets?! And how much rock has already been hunted through and broken up. It was so slippery up there. I started getting worried about a kid falling down.

Jon gets down and dirty looking for fossils

Sadly, nothing was found in this area. By luck there were a four other guys out there fossil hunting (and they were the only other humans we saw all day). They had been there before and after not finding anything by us, they went to another area they remembered as being a good spot. As they were leaving they directed us to that part of the mountain and the kids all found a few treasures. The fossils they found are called trilobites, believed to be in existence around 550 million years ago. They didn't find any complete fossils, but lots of partials.

By that time I was so exhausted I was back at the bottom of the mountain and about falling asleep in the van. Since it was getting later, and colder, everyone came down the mountain. We had one other stop before heading back home.Amboy Crater

Just down the road was a turn off to Amboy Crater. It was already getting dark, so we couldn't hike very far out, but it was a neat place to explore. We were all giddy and silly, which is probably why we thought it was so much fun. The kids want to go back and check it all out again. I'm not sure if that might be a perfect "daddy day trip". :)

Holiday Tradition

2011-01-09T20:06:00.001-08:00

Ok, I know I'm way behind. I'm still going to post some of the things I've missed sharing with family and friends for the last ... 8 months! AUGH! Feel free to check out the stuff, or just ignore until I get caught up and can start working on 2011 events. Hopefully, I will get it done in the next month since nothing exciting is coming up until February! Ha!

For the last many years we have spent Christmas Eve going on a long hike. It helps tire out the kids and it gives us a time to all hang out together without any of the trappings of the holiday glitz. It's just us out there (where ever we choose to go) with time to talk and explore. This year with all the rain, we were afraid the trails might be closed or muddy so we opted for a bike ride. We went to Coronado and enjoyed a beautiful, clear sunny day.

Aubrey and I taking a break at the beginning of the trek. She ran into a big pole and hurt her mouth. But she was a stud and didn't let it stop her from continuing. She finally had to tell me to stop pointing out fun things to look at since she wanted to keep her eyes on the road so she wouldn't get hurt again!

We got the bike path all to ourselves!

Once we got to the beach we had to get a picture. Can you believe it's Christmas Eve?

The family Christmas tree.

Ok, this isn't our tree. While in Coronado we went into the famous Hotel Del Coronado. The kids have never been inside, and I've never seen it decked out for the holidays. GORGEOUS! We looked so grubby compared to the fancy visitors, but that didn't stop us from doing a little window shopping. One store I must remember for next year is: Spreckels Sweets & Treats. Cutest candies and holiday gift ideas. So old fashioned and modern ... all in the same store.

What About Jonathan???

2010-11-11T22:30:00.000-08:00

I stole this cute idea from a friend's blog (thanks, Jessica). There is a website that will rank the words you use most often in your blog and place them in a cool random display. The more you use a word, the bigger that word appears. Clearly, I'm too obsessed about the "rooms" in my house since "room" is as big as "kids" and even larger than "Brian". That's just wrong!!!

My biggest sadness was that Jonathan didn't even make the list. Brandon is there just as large as Aubrey, but no Jonathan. No mention of Jon, J-Dawg, Jon-Jon, Juan Paco (the German Taco), or any other derivative of Jonathan.

I like seeing the words: becoming, friend, daddy, sooooo, fun, home and many others. But it hurts my heart that Jonathan isn't there. Really??? How is that possible? Soooooo, with that in mind, I'm trying to change the stats. Let's see if this helps: Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan, Jonathan. After posting this I'll go try my luck again and see if I can be saved from shame! (sorry, Jon-Jon)

UPDATE: After my experiment with adding Jon's name, here is the new word display. I think this is a testimony that you can repent and experience true change! That should satisfy my feisty 4th grader! Ha!

What a Difference a Day Makes ....

2010-11-11T10:51:00.001-08:00

... or many, many months. ha! I have a lot of catching up to do, but since I had the last post being our destruction job, I might as well show off the "after" picture. Then I can say I'm officially working on my blog.

See the little critters that are happily resting. The dog is our sweet Chance, and the kitten is one of our newly acquired fosters. (That will be a future post.)

We picked a burnt orange for the accent in this room since Aubrey and I both love fall colors. I now wish I would have been bolder with the accent color, but it really is a great room to hang out and watch movies. It is one of our favorite rooms for gathering together! We still have to finish installing the surround sound, but even with the speakers leaning on the edge of the couch, the sound is AWESOME!!! :)

If I Had A Hammer ...

2010-06-10T05:49:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day weekend had us focusing on a new home improvement project. The kids especially loved that they could get so involved. Here is the before picture.

This is in our upstairs "bonus room". The previous owners added walls so that there was a TV room, an office and a laundry room. We didn't like that the computer room was so insulated and separated from the rest of the house. We couldn't monitor what the kids were doing. Not a good idea.

So, Brian gave the kids some safety glasses, hammers and very few instructions and off they went to make their parents proud!

It took most of the day to tear it all down, and clean up the mess. They ended with a good long swim and a fun night bar-b-que'ing with friends. And the final results:

We still need to figure out paint and curtains, but it is soooo nice to have the room open. We will be bringing in real office furniture so that we can get organized again. This is a long awaited, and much appreciated project! Brian had to work out the electrical (with only one big threat of zapping the kids) and the patching. Aubrey went to bed saying how "cool it is that daddy can fix anything". She's got him so high on a pedestal that she's going to have to marry "Bob the Builder" in order to be impressed with her husband. Ha, ha!!!

Foster Kittens

2010-06-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine works at the Helen Woodward Animal Center. She told me they had a LOT of kittens who needed a foster home and wondered if I'd be interested. We've done dogs before, but cats are easier in our home. We brought 5 little siblings home. They are soooo fun!!!

Can you see the black one in the back? Their names from left to right: Sophie, Everest, Pinky, Cali, and the black guy in the back is Jack.

We will keep them until they reach 2 pounds, then they will be "fixed" and come back here to recuperate. After that they will be returned to the center to be adopted out. I hear they have a lot of kittens right now that are ready to go. If you're thinking of getting a new friend in your home ... that's the place to start!

Thought for the day: "Why isn't it ever the Tooth Fairy that's under the bed?"

We always assume the worse when we're alone in the dark! Maybe that applies to the extra anxiety we feel when change comes along.

Terrific Day!

2010-05-20T21:54:00.001-07:00

There are days, few and far between, that are just so great that it makes me so grateful to be alive. Today was one of those. It promised to be wildly crazy, but turned out to be so satisfying!

1. Math Equation:

Kim - 20 lbs = on the right track!!! I woke up and first thing this morning I saw that I hit that fantastic milestone. That is a sure fire way to keep me motivated and my spirits high!!!

2. Visit from Helen Woodward:

I have a friend that works at an animal adoption center. They are in need of foster parents for kittens. We, read as the kids and I, thought it would be fun to have kittens around. Then we, read as Brian and I, thought the best part would be to give them away when the novelty wore off. We're going to bring home a litter of 5 kittens tomorrow afternoon. The entire family is so excited. Well, Brian is more lukewarm than excited. Ha!

3. Lunch with my Honey

We don't get to have many date nights. There are always things happening on Friday nights. Lately it's been camp outs. This weekend the father/son camp out is planned. So since the kids are at school, lunch is our best time to meet and actually speak to one another. It's been so long since we've accomplished anything. We were able to PLAN some of our upcoming projects. Not just talk in generalities. What a feeling of accomplishment! Not to mention the joy of just being with my sweetie!

4. Open House

The elementary school had their open house and art auction tonight. Because of our unusually busy night, we had to arrive early and run through everything. This is our last year at this elementary school, so I wanted to savor every little tradition. The art auction was so fun. Each class creates a piece of art and then the parents do a silent auction. These pieces go for hundreds of dollars. We bought a piece a couple of years ago that hangs above our fireplace in the living room, but we're not willing to shell out the cash this year. There were great things to see, though. And going to the kids' classrooms was so fun. They are so proud of their work and what they've learned. I couldn't have been more proud of who these guys are becoming. Such good kids and smart tarts!

5. Festival of the Arts

The middle school also had their spring festival tonight. It was crazy getting from one event to the other. We placed our blanket and picnic basket on the field early when we dropped off Brandon for his rehearsal. Then we just showed up minutes before the performance started ... and went right to the front of the crowd. SWEET! It was great weather to sit and eat a picnic dinner while the dance team showed off their talent. Followed by the orchestra and then the band, and finally the band and orchestra doing a finale of Michael Jackson songs. Generally, Brandon is in the back and we can't hear or see him. This time he was right in front and was given a pretty big part to play. He did great! He is really embracing his bari-sax this year. He enjoys practicing and is getting really good.

I am now exhausted! But, seriously, I spent the day doing what I love. Being with my family and celebrating their talents and interests. It was FABULOUS!

What??? Me, in Politics?

2010-03-30T10:06:00.001-07:00

In January I picked a "word of the year" (well, I picked a phrase) to focus my goals: "Just Do It!" Although, I am actually altering it to be: "Do It Anyway" based on a fabulous article by Orson Scott Card. That, combined with an impending feeling of "something is coming" (can you hear the music playing from "West Side Story"?) led me to take on a new challenge this year.

A friend of mine is running for School Board. I very much support his choice to run since he is an amazing man. Very honorable, very smart, very good for the job. He sent an email asking if we could talk about the opportunity of me helping "significantly" in his campaign. I teased Brian that he must be fundraising and is starting to hit on friends already. Well, after our chat, I almost wish he was just soliciting a donation. Ha!

He asked me to be his campaign manager. It took me a weekend of really considering if I want to take on this sort of time commitment. I prayed, talked to Brian about pros and cons, and we had a family meeting. In the end, I am very willing to put my time and energy to make sure a good person is put into this position. I'm actually very excited about all I will be learning, and the opportunity of getting involved in the community on a real level. I'm not looking forward to any ugliness that may come when working in politics. I'm hoping school board is under the radar since the city is also having their mayoral race (which promises to be much more juicy!).

So, I'll start now: Vote 4 Davis!!! Check out his website: davis4pusd.com. Let me know if you have any comments or concerns about his platform.

The BIG 4-0 !

2010-03-28T20:59:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been so fun to focus fully on Brian and celebrating his big day! His birthday was Friday. He celebrated with Brandon on a scouting camp out. The boys got to learn some rock climbing skills. They had a blast!

The only thing that Brian really wanted was to go to a Brazilian BBQ. He's been wanting to go since he moved here ... over 16 years ago. We just have never done it. So, we invited some friends and made the reservation.

At one point, the music got REALLY loud and a new visitor came to our area. Brian had no problem getting up and dancing with his new friend.

At the end of the night, he didn't seem too sad to go home with his "tried and true" friend.

It was a great night, with comfortable friends. Just what Brian wanted! A perfect way to celebrate!

Aubrey wanted to try out cake decorating and was thrilled when Brian gave her the okay to make his cake. She worked on it for hours, using 2 different types of frosting. She played with tips, colors, and filling. I think she did great.

It was a great weekend, celebrating a great man! Here's hoping that there are many more birthdays to celebrate together!!!

Snow Days

2010-03-21T20:06:00.000-07:00

We have only taken the kids skiing one time in their lives, and they LOVED it! I'm still scared to get out there, but the kids ask to go every year. Our school district gives the kids an entire week off of school for President's Day (it all has to do with getting more money ... doesn't it always?!), so we set off for a trip to Utah.

The first day was rather "ify" since the kids didn't get lessons this time. They just had to try to remember all the tricks. It only took them 2 times down the mountain to get the hang of it.

While we were in Utah, we got to visit a few special friends and family ... of course, we didn't actually take pictures ... DUH! We also went ice skating. Since I didn't ski, Jon made me promise I would skate. Man, it's been a long time. I stayed pretty close to the wall while the rest of the family went zooming around. We went with our good friends, the Chuns, and even got to chaperon their 16 year old son on his very first double date ... so cute!

The scary part of this day was watching Brian escort Jon off the ice with blood dripping from his hand. He had fallen and another skater went right over his finger. We rushed off to the Emergi-Care only to be told he was lucky they were rental skates and very dull. Otherwise, he could have lost his fingers. As it was, no stitches were needed, and they didn't even charge us for the visit. Gotta love Utah for that one!

While the kids & Brian skied, and during every down time, I worked on the computer. Just before our vacation, I was asked to help co-produce a musical fireside for the youth in our stake. I got to work with some of my favorite people, and it promised a lot of opportunity for learning. We had over 100 kids (ages 12-18) participate. We only had 6 weeks to prepare, and it looked a little sketchy when the weekend to perform arrived.

They performed the music of Janice Kapp Perry and her son Steven called, "Let the Morning Come" (a musical celebration of Joseph Smith and the restoration). The lady in charge of costumes really out did herself. Even the boys were wearing corvatts. I didn't think that was going to happen, but they all looked really good! There were some minor sound issues (that caused many tears and much frustration), but still the spirit of the program was very special. Listening to the testimonies spoken of Joseph Smith, Jr. What a great man and Prophet he was. It reminded me of how grateful I am that Heavenly Father still provides prophets in this time to understand His will. So glad I was given the opportunity to be part of the production ... and relieved it will be 2 years before they put another show like that together. Ha!

Something to Smile About

2010-03-03T10:22:00.000-08:00

This week has been a hard one. So many things happening in the world to hurt little spirits and make tears flow from even the strongest.

The earthquake in Chile has brought so many sad moments. The areas where I served as a missionary seem to be the ones directly hit. Either by the quake, or the tsunamis that followed, or the prisoners escaping due to the jails crumbling down. The information has been slow getting out since power and internet has not been available. The big city of Concepcion seems to have had so many problems with destruction and looters that the officials can't get to the small towns that have literally been wiped out.

The miracle I have seen in both the Spanish and English speaking groups is the love! The unity! The blessing of technology. There are facebook pages where I've been able to communicate with dear friends in areas where there isn't even running water yet. The spirits are high. Chile is a strong country and the people are good, hard workers. They will unite and get past this. Fuerza Chile!!!

Last night Aubrey slept in our room for the first time in many years. The discovery of the body of a teen age girl who had been missing since last week really bothered her. She said she kept seeing Chelsea King's face whenever she closed her eyes. She said she was scared of the bad guy who did this and sad for the family of the girl. My heart aches that this sweet little girl has to know about these evil things. My spirit yearns to reach out to the King family. No parents should have to know their daughter died in such a violent way.

My family needs laughter and a loving reminder that things are okay, even when things go very, very wrong in the world. Our spirits need that peace to help mend us and give us strength to reach out and help others. Though it will take more effort than it usually does, we must seek to find something to smile about!

Missionaries safe

2010-02-28T07:53:00.000-08:00

SALT LAKE CITY 27 February 2010 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued the following statement today following the earthquake in Chile:

"We, along with the rest of the world, are watching with concern as reports from the massive earthquake in Chile continue to unfold. As with any disaster, immediate details are difficult to confirm.

"We have confirmed that all of the Church's missionaries in Chile have reported in and are safe, including the two elders on the Juan Fernandez Island." (This is an update from a report earlier today when some missionaries had not reported in).

It will take longer to hear how many members were affected. Everyday a little more news comes in.

Amazing how many natural disasters are happening all over the world. Sign of the times? Maybe. Overdue occurrences of nature? Maybe? Whatever the answer, ask yourself if you're ready. Can you take care of your family if something like this happens? Both spiritually and physically are you prepared for any emergency? Well, that's what we're asking ourselves this weekend.

8.8 Earthquake

2010-02-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

My heart hurts so much right now. I woke up with a simple Saturday before me. I checked Facebook and started seeing my old missionary buddies with strange comments about prayers going to Chile. Finally I read what the situation was: Chile Earthquake.

This is the area where I served. Bio-Bio is at the heart where the mission home is. So far, the church hasn't made any comments about contact made with the missionaries. One friend posted the following:

"We have a friend serving there now. Interesting thing is they were given earthquake instructions and water filtration equipment two weeks ago. thankful for heavenly inspiration!"

My prayers are with my brothers and sisters. I wish I was there! I want to don the yellow "helping hands" shirt and get to work.

They say the prison in Chillan was damaged and many prisoners escaped. Chillan was my first area!

Disneyland

2010-02-14T14:47:00.000-08:00

Every year the middle school bands audition for the right to play for the crowds of Disneyland. They play for a few minutes and then are free to play for hours. This year, the band didn't win the privilege to play. Instead, they had to pay for a clinic experience. Personally, I think it was a much more valuable experience.

They didn't perform in front of the masses (all the moms and dads that go watch their kid play). No, they were taken behind the scenes (no pictures were allowed) and sat in a large studio. They were given music to sight read, and had to play for a professional director. Our director is currently working on the traveling Broadway show, "Peter Pan". He talked about what it meant to be a professional musician and how music and movies went together. Explaining how dynamics make such a huge difference in the mood of a scene.

So, the kids were able to practice their music about 3 times. It was Disney music to a scene of a movie. Then it was professionally recorded. Behind the director was a HUGE screen. After the music was recorded, the kids got to watch the scene of the movie (they did something from "Emperor's New Groove" and "Atlantis") with their music playing. It was so neat. I think they came away with a new understanding. The director was great. He was tough, but funny.

I went as a chaperon, but was disappointed that I wasn't assigned to hang out with my own kid. After the assigned "stay with your group" time, the kids were free to roam around in their groups with no chaperons. Brandon made it clear that he didn't want me hanging around. I know it is totally natural, but it was the first time he chose his friends over his mom. After a few hours riding rides with another mom, I got a call from Brandon. He told me they were stopping for dinner and asked if I wanted to join them. That made me happy. Am I a mush heart, or what?! It was a great day all the way around.

A Teenager In The House

2010-02-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

I once heard that if your kids aren't causing you real grief in your home, it's only because they aren't old enough. Each year we knock on wood that our kids are still young enough to skip over the fore warned grief. And each year we wonder if this will be "the one". :)

Brandon turns 13!

The kids have all read the Percy Jackson "Lightning Thief" series. Brandon was so excited when he heard it was opening on his b-day weekend. All the boys had a great time (although the overall feeling was that the book was better).

Brandon has really good friends, but like all kids this age ... they are all CRAZY. This poster seemed to fit them. It's a movie called the "Crazies". Ok, the movie is actually scary, but the title is funny.

After the movie and pizza, the boys came home for cake and ice cream. It was a little cold for a swim party, but these boys REALLY wanted to play in the water. I am very impressed that none of the boys ended up in the pool anyway. Great restraint, right?!

Anticipation

2010-02-01T14:10:00.000-08:00

It seems that these days kids get what they need/want at the moment. They don't have to wait for birthdays or holidays to get their heart's desires. But there are times when they are left to anxiously anticipate events to come. It is very fun to watch the process and even better when the event meets or beats the expectations.

Aubrey and her best friend, Hannah, received a fun Christmas gift from their moms. (Is it okay to just say that Heidi and I rock?! That feels wrong! ha, ha!) They were each granted a certificate good for one lunch at the American Girl Store in Los Angeles. They knew that we would drive them, and pay for lunch, but it was up to them to save their money and purchase what they wanted. They were thrilled! (And yes, Heidi and I accept that we're cheap and love that our girls are okay with that!)

The girls even dressed up for their big day. They are growing up so fast and are so beautiful. The cafe is beautiful and the chandeliers are over the top. I bummed I didn't get a picture. Note the cute high chairs they give the girls to put their dolls right up to the table. It was pricey, but it was so fun.

One of the things the girls did was leave their dolls at the store to get their hair done. The wait was over an hour before their dolls' appointment, so we went out shopping at "The Grove". Great weather, great company, great girls' day! We got home tired, but we all loved it!

We went 3 years ago, and the girls were so excited. We noticed that the luster of the dolls has worn off as the girls are growing up. I'm sure this will be their last trip to American Girl, but we are already planning to keep this a tradition of a girls' day. We'll have to come up with something new next year! :)

Moving on, Jon has been anxiously awaiting the day when he could compete in the Pinewood Derby. He got his car and started on his design right away. He worked with Brian who taught him how to cut the wood, sand it down, paint the design, and perfect it as best he could. He named the car Shark Bait.
He proved to be a really good sport. He didn't pout when he lost a race, and he didn't boast when he won. The people in charge of the event did an amazing job decorating and organizing it. With the computer set up to rank the races, it was very quick. Jon was thrilled when he learned that he came in 3rd place!

More Home Improvements

2010-01-17T16:13:00.000-08:00

I was just going to label this entry, "Home Improvements", but I think I've already used that one. Besides, I have a feeling there are going to be many more of these same types of entries throughout the next year. :)

1. Bees Were Buzzing ...

This by far was the most interesting and entertaining. When we moved into the house we knew there was a bee infestation on the roof. We were told it had been there a couple of months and we were credited some money to get rid of the critters.

We finally got someone out to see if they could remove them all without killing them. Turns out the bees weren't in the roof, but rather in the wall behind the chimney. The only way to get them out would be to open the wall into the living room and let them free. NOT an option. We decided we'd be okay if they killed the little guys.

When the guy opened up the wall, the honey just started to drip out. He said there were probably 10,000 bees in there and they must have been there for more than a year. While the man was scraping the honey combs out I asked him how often he gets stung. He replied by asking, "what, you mean right now? Uhhh, about 4 already." He didn't even flinch.

In total about 4 or 5 honey combs were removed. No telling how much honey. Sadly, we have oleander trees in our back yard, and were advised the honey could be poisonous. It sure smelled sweet in the house though. Kinda reminded me of one of my favorite books, "The Secret Lives of Bees".

2. Pond Scum ...

We didn't do good with before and after pictures here. When we moved into the house we were a little nervous about the cute pond with the little bridge in the backyard. We had no idea how to take care of it. There were fish in there, but no telling how many. We couldn't see them. The previous owner told us we didn't have to do anything for them (regarding food, etc) that they just ate what was in the pond. It was so over run with lily pads and gunk, there was no telling what they had to eat. Our only hint was the time Chance jumped into the pond and came out smelling something like ROT.

The nicest guys came out to clean out the pond. These bags are all filled with the gunk on the bottom of the pond. Seriously, there was a least 2 feet of scum on the bottom. They said they'd never seen a pond so neglected.

There aren't any after pictures of their awesome work since it's basically just an empty pool. We can't replace the plants until spring, so I'll try to put in an update when it looks nice. The good news is we are now able to see that we have at least 15 fish and will inherit 3 more (thanks to our new friends at the pond and garden shop). Another bonus is that now that it's so peaceful to sit by the pond and listen to the water fall, I was back there long enough to notice a hummingbird fly to its nest. I guess our neglected trees have been a haven for little birds. I wonder how many little birds we'll have around come spring.

Holiday in Review

2010-01-06T21:47:00.000-08:00

I thought I would have updated the blog by now, but I'm a little slow. Let's do some catch up.

1. House Guest

Brandon wanted to bring this cute little guy home from his science class. He's a boa constrictor, about 6 feet long. Not all that cuddly, but pretty cool. We got to feed him live rats, which about made me hurl. I used to have rats as pets, and watching them become dinner was a little sad. Seeing how quick the snake went to work on them was very impressive.

2. Projects

Over the holidays, I decided to make this baby quilt for a sister in the ward who just had a baby. I'm her visiting teacher, and not quite sure if we're connecting. She's not a member, but is super nice. Aubrey helped me pick the fabric. It was a fun project and turned out pretty cute.

3. Family Traditions

I think Brian is still shocked by how beautiful the weather is here during winter. For the last few years we've made it our Christmas Eve tradition to go on a family hike. This year we went up a new trail that ended at a nice lake. It was a fabulously warm day. The kids were extra eager, and Chance was thrilled to be part of the fun. To be honest, we started the tradition with ulterior motives. The long hike would leave the kids exhausted and fast asleep very early so we had lots of hours to take care of things. This year it did NOTHING! The only ones tired from the trip were me, the dog and Brian. Aubrey stayed up until after 11:30 pm and Jon woke up at 4 am because he was too excited to wait. Brian and I didn't go to sleep until after 1 am. We were busy putting together the new foosball table. (Fun Fact: during college I earned the nickname "Kimbo the Barbarian" because of my mad foosball playing skills.) I guess next year, we'll have to re-think our family hike. It might be a family triathlon in order to get these kids tired! Ha!

4. Holiday Quiz

We were a little late with this one. We decided to make gingerbread houses this year. We did the graham cracker version. And we finally got around to it way after Christmas. Still, it was a fun family night. Brandon got a little graphic with his war scenes. The gummy bears impaled with candy cane sticks were a little too much for this G-rated blog. So, you get to see this creation. Can you guess what famous building it is?

Joy In The New Year

2010-01-01T07:44:00.001-08:00

I stole this picture from a girlfriend's blog (thanks, Trish) as it really intrigued me. I'm not really a resolution setter, more of a goal breaker within a couple of weeks. However, I really like this thought of creating JOY in our own lives.

"JOY" is our family theme during the holidays. During my mission, my mission President's wife gave a lesson about using JOY to help direct our focus. Things should be done in order:

Jesus first
then Others
finally, think of Yourself.

Trish used this phrase in a UFO (UnFinishedObjects) challenge regarding sewing/craft projects. What a great relief to get all those things that have been started, but not finished, out of the way. I was thinking about all our projects, and in a new house there are MANY, but I was also thinking of relationships. How many unfinished resentments, grudges, or appreciations do I have stored up about people that I need to get out? Just plain letting go of the negative, and sharing the positive with those who really need to hear it.
Consider this a challenge for your own UFO's.

Another New Years idea that I read about was picking a word for the year. Then tacking that word up somewhere so you'd remember to live by it and help you make a change. Some examples were: "finish", "persevere", "nurture". I think my mantra for 2010 will be "DO IT". I know it's an oldie, but it's still a goodie. There are so many times when I feel inspired to talk to someone, reach out, or want to try something new, but fear holds me back. This year I want to step out of my comfort zone and grow a bit in different areas of my life. And also, use it as a motivator to get to work and do the things on my list, not just keep adding to my list. :)

However you mark this New Year, I really hope for you peace. Whatever trials/pains, joys/happiness that comes to you, I hope you have a good foundation to get you through. Peace is such an amazing gift, and I'm grateful for the peace that I'm starting 2010 out with.

Chop Shop

2009-12-21T21:22:00.000-08:00

I have a girlfriend who decided to add a little color in her hair. She has pink bits going through and it looks great on her. I have another friend who went in for a color and she got a shock when her hair turned out much darker than she planned. (In her words, "goth", but I think it looks good). It had me hankering for a change, but I was not as bold as my friends. Here's as far as I went ...

Just short! (Don't you love the close up on the wrinkles? Ha!) I haven't been short like this in years. I am still trying to figure out how to make it work, but I love that it takes so little time to "fix" in the morning. My hair is so thick it takes forever to dry. So far I am lovin' the change.

House Warming

2009-12-15T07:04:00.000-08:00

We have been in our home for over a month, and I've gotten so much grief from family and friends about not posting pictures. We had a FABULOUS house warming party last week. We estimate that at least 70 people came through the house, shared treats, and then walked through the neighborhood. It was so fun to share the holidays with friends.

In order to appease the far away friends who aren't able to visit, here is a little snippet of what the house looks like.

Here is the front yard. Believe it or not, we already removed 10 trees. Crazy! Can you see the little elf on the window? Click on the picture to see it close up. Aubrey and I painted that. Then the rains came and washed half of it away. (Note to self, install rain gutters before next year.)

The house is full of stained glass windows. I can't decide if I like them or not. It's kinda cool that it's custom, but it also seems a little "grand motherly". Our hope is that we'll live here forever, so someday I'll be a grandma and then it will fit, right?!

View from front door. The banister is so much prettier with lights and Christmas garland. :)

Good thing we took pictures before we moved in. It hasn't been clean enough for pictures ever since. :) We hope to change out the lights soon, but for now it's very functional.

This is the upstairs laundry room. We almost bought this same model house back in May and decided we would move the laundry room upstairs. These kind people did it for us. It's bigger than I would have planned, but it is so nice to have extra room and extra storage.

Not the best shot of the pool, but it's still pretty. You can't see it well, but the far side has a pretty water fall coming off the rocks.

My favorite spot in the yard, the fire pit. I love how they made seats out of boulders.

Holiday Photo

2009-12-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

Our ward did a great money maker for the Young Women's camp fund. A guy in the ward did family portraits behind the city hall. I've never seen that area, it was really pretty. Most of the money goes to the girls, so we couldn't resist helping out.

This will probably be as close as we get to sending out holiday cards this year. We definitely feel blessed that we've made it through the year with our health and family in tact. Brian's job is going well. The kids are doing good in school and activities. We are all very happy with our new ward and new home.

We hope you all have an amazing holiday season. Full of love and the spirit of giving and hope. From the words of one of my favorite people: "Life is good. It may not be easy, but it is always good."

We love you all!!! Merry Christmas!

Teacher Conference Vent Session

2009-11-20T22:13:00.000-08:00

Today was the final of our parent/teacher conferences. We weren't much surprised with what the 2 teachers had to say about our kidlets. However, there was one part that irks me sooo much, and I can't let it go.

Aubrey is brilliant. There, I said it. If you don't believe me, just ask her. She has so much (often false) confidence in her own ability that she is almost unteachable. However, math is her strong subject. She (usually) loves it. This is why it's been such a concern that she comes home every day telling us that math is boring. This is where I just don't get public school.

The teacher tells me today that the new math book that the entire district is using is kinda lame (paraphrasing the teacher). They start at the very basic of an idea (stuff these kids learned in 2nd grade sometimes) and then go forward. Aubrey hates wasting a couple of days on stuff she already knows, and then gets so frustrated when there are kids that are asking questions ... when they should have learned the material in 2nd and 3rd grade. (yeah, she's really patient too). I ask the teacher if there is something we can do for GATE kids that are losing interest. She says "no, this is the book we have". So, my kid is literally being turned off to math because "this is the book we have". Seriously?! There's no extra work that can be given to her? No other way of teaching "outside of the box" when you see a kid is walking away? If she was a low scoring kid would that be same response?

We're at the point where we are just going to do extra math lessons outside of school. Fun stuff that challenges her and keeps her motivated. If any of you have any suggestions, please feel free to comment. While I really do like her teacher, seeing a kid turn off and allowing it to happen is intolerable. Am I wrong here?

New-ish Calling

2009-11-16T20:49:00.000-08:00

We've been in our new ward for 3 Sundays now. I was called into the Bishop's office last weekend and given my new-ish calling. Guess what it is??? C'mon, I'll give you a hint.

You got it! Young Women's!!! I'm the Mia Maids Advisor. In all my adult years of marriage, I've been called to serve with the Mia Maids in 3 different wards. I love the YW's program. I love the opportunity to help these girls grow their testimonies, and seeing my own grow.

On the other side of the coin, I feel like I'm clearly not learning something that I should have 2 wards ago. So, is it wrong to have a heart to heart with Heavenly Father and just lay it out on the table. I wanna tell him, "Um, here I am ... again. Seriously, I don't think I'm getting it. It's just not going to happen. Whatever lesson I'm supposed to learn from this calling is going to have to be MUCH less subtle. This is a thick skull you're working with."

Whatever the reason for me being here, I'm going to relish the fun and the adventures. This ward seems to go a little more hyper on themes and matching napkins. I'll have to step it up for this. I'm so looking forward to getting to know the girls. My attitude right now is: BRING IT!

They called the entire family into the Bishop's office this last Sunday, but only to ask Brian and I to speak. I love that we get to speak on the same Sunday. Brian is a little restless without a calling. He's so used to being busy at church. He'll get his soon enough, I'm sure.

Halloween Creep Fest

2009-11-04T14:11:00.001-08:00

It really happened ... and I was there! (dim the lights and move in close for story time)

A few weeks ago, Aubrey was having her soccer practice at a local soccer park. At the back of the park there is a little stream and a path that is rather hidden from the park. Jon likes to go explore, but can only go with a buddy. This particular day, I was his only option, so we went exploring together.

The stream is very small and the mosquitoes were buzzing around and bugging us (pun intended). There was a very strong stench coming from the tiny bit of water. I don't mean to brag, but I have what some might call a "super smeller". If you've seen Psych, you know what I'm talking about. I have a pretty good sense of what I'm smelling, and I could almost swear I was smelling a dead animal decomposing. Jon and I had our fill of exploring and we quickly returned to the fresh air by the practice field.

Fast forward about 3 weeks later. (start reading here with a spooky voice) It's Halloween morning ... around 8 am. It just so happens that Brandon is assigned to play his soccer game at the same local park. As the parents are sitting on the sidelines cheering, we are talking about all the noise that the tractor is making over by the little stream. It appears that it is clearing out the brush in the area. All of the sudden, the tractor stops and shortly there after blaring sirens of an ambulance and firetruck are getting nearer. They come right into the parking lot, along with 3 police cars. (insert suspenseful music here)

It turns out that a body was found by the tractor worker. It was a suicide that appears to have taken place a few weeks ago. The body was very badly decomposed. Could it be that the awful stench of dead animal that I smelled was in fact a poor man's body hanging in the trees not far from where we were exploring???

It is a very creepy thought and I am still a little queasy over the possibility. It makes for a great ghost story, huh?! I just wish it was something I read and not something I was that close to. ICK!

Appreciation

2009-10-21T07:22:00.001-07:00

For reading time last night Aubrey and I were playing a question answer game created for 3rd graders. Yeah, not quite her level, but we're working her up to it. Ha, ha!!! Just kidding!

Anyway, the question was: "There's a leak in the kitchen sink. What worker should we call to fix it?"

The obvious answer: "Daddy"

It is very clear that this family relies so much on Brian and appreciates all he does for us. It's not Father's Day, but we can use any day to send out a tribute to a good dad, right?!

Happy Dance

2009-10-20T11:03:00.001-07:00

We just got the all important phone call. We have been given the GREEN light to move into our new home on Saturday! Woosh-oo!!! That means we won't be homeless until escrow closes!!! I'm so relieved. Let the packing continue.

For those of you with kind husbands living close by, we will be moving early Saturday morning. Feel free to come over for the donuts and orange juice ... and then stick around for the no cost full body work out that comes from moving furniture and boxes. Seriously, since we weren't able to announce the move at church, I'm really worried about whether we will have any help at all. EEKS!

Catching up!

2009-10-18T09:21:00.000-07:00

It used to be when I got super busy that my journal was the first thing neglected. Now this blog is what is ignored. So much has happened in the last month. Let me do a "not-so-quick" run through.

#1. Most important, Jonathan turned 8 and was baptized.

He was so excited to get baptized by his dad! His smile didn't leave him all day.

Brian's parents and sister came for the baptism. That was very nice to have family here. They did a great job reminding him about the importance of what he was doing. The kids loved having family visit.

Brian's sister, Heidi, is very allergic to cats. She hasn't been to San Diego in 5 years because of it. This time it worked out well. The week they were set to come visit, we put our house on the market and were having people come through to check out the house. We all agreed it might be best to have them stay in a hotel. They were great sports about it. But I still think Heidi was very relieved, and literally breathed easier because of the situation.

Another milestone for turning 8 is joining the Cub Scouts at church. Just Jon's luck, he got in just in time for the Raingutter Regata.

Neither Brian nor I actually graduated from BYU, although I did attend for 1 semester before my mission. My kids are very loyal and act as if they have it in their blood. Jon was so excited about the making of his boat and planned his design weeks before his birthday. I love that they are so into scouts. In our family it's "no wings, no wheels". In other words, they don't drive until they earn Eagle scout. We just have to get them to that point before life gets more interesting than scouts. Ha!

#2. Family Traditions. Brian grew up in St. Louis, so going to Utah was a big deal. When the boys turned 12, they got to go with their dad to General Conference at the Tabernacle. Brandon thought that was a great idea and wanted to do the same. We told him he could go anywhere, but he chose Utah. I secretly think he was hoping for snow and could maybe get a ski trip out of it. Still he really enjoyed the trip.

He did see snow at the family cabin near Fairview, Utah. Don't let the pictures fool you, it's a beautiful area, but the cabin is as run down on the inside as it is on the outside. They had a great time hiking and being out in nature, but they didn't actually stay at the cabin.

They went on to Orem, Utah and stayed with some of our favorite friends, the Chuns. We've known this family since before Brandon was born. They are as close as family to us. And they took good care of the boys while they were in Utah. Brandon came home asking how come we didn't have a baby. Thanks a lot, Andrea! :)

Brandon was really impressed with Priesthood session of conference. I think it had an impact on him, and it definitely was a special time for he and Brian to be able to play and talk all weekend.

#3. We sold our house ... again. It's been the craziest ride ever. The day before Brian took Brandon out of town a house came on the market. For some reason we felt like this one could be "it". Brian filled out all the paperwork just in case I saw the house and wanted to put on offer on it. Before he came home from Utah, the offer was accepted and we were in escrow.

Our house was quickly put on the market and by the first weekend we had 4 offers, two of which were cash offers. (Who does that???) Mind you, Brian still hadn't even seen the house we were buying yet. The tenants of our prospective home wouldn't let us in to see it because they were mad the owners were selling and didn't want to do them any favors.

With Brian's parents in town, we thought it would be so fun to show them the new place, but the tenants weren't budging. They did say we could see the backyard once they moved their stuff out. Brian loved it as much as I did. It's a 1/2 acre lot with so much room for both work and play. As we were getting ready to leave the house, the maids drove up to clean the empty home. I was able to chat with them and talked them into letting us see inside ... there are benefits to speaking Spanish. So, 3 days before all contingencies were taken off our home, Brian finally got to see the home he was working so hard to buy. I'm telling you he is a man of great faith to put so much trust in my judgment. On my mission we used to ask, "es fe o estupidez?" In this case it was all good. The inside is as nice as the outside and he was 100% on board. Unfortunately the house was taken off the listing, so I have no pictures. I'll try to get some next time we have access to the house.

We decided to accept an all cash offer which means we are on hyper speed to get out. They asked for a 7 day escrow and we talked them into a 14 day escrow with the option to rent for an extra week. That means we have to be out by Halloween. The new house is vacant so we're hoping we can rent it starting this next weekend and start moving in. We won't know until tomorrow. If they don't agree to that, we hope to be able to put our stuff in the garage and then rent a hotel, or mooch off the kindness of friends. If that doesn't work, we'll have to put everything in storage and go with that mooching option for the family.

This is a lot of work, but all still feels so calm inside. The ward is much smaller where we're moving to, but that hasn't hampered our excitement. I'll try to update again when I know something ... hopefully very soon. Today at church we were asking the Young Women what they were going to be for Halloween. I think our entire family could go as homeless people ... literally! ha, ha! It's all for our experience and learning, right?!

Nine Eleven

2009-09-11T22:23:00.000-07:00

While running errands with the kids we got to talking about how school went. Aubrey's class talked about 9/11 and what it meant. That led to so many questions ... and a few tears. Do you remember where you were when it happened?

My mom sent me an email telling me I had to turn on the TV that we were going to war. I didn't understand what it was about. It was early morning, before Brian went to work. I turned on the TV to watch a re-play of the towers being hit by the planes. I was in shock.

Aubrey was 3 and Brandon 5. I was 8 months pregnant with Jon. I remember sitting on my floor just holding and rocking Aubrey for so long. I called for Brian and we just sat together all huddled up. Brandon on Brian's lap, Aubrey in mine and Brian and I holding each other's hands. He stayed home from work because there was a feeling that we all just needed to stay together. I kept wondering what kind of world we were bringing babies into. We watched the news all day long. It wasn't until a day or two later that they told parents that children should not be shown the pictures since it would be traumatic for them. Oops, we were so overwhelmed with emotion, we never thought about it.

Do you remember the feeling of unity throughout the country? We didn't know anyone who was killed that day, but we prayed for their families desperately. All those emergency workers who jumped in to help. All those terrified, innocent people. How amazing to feel united in the same righteous indignation. How the flags waved all over the country. Did you hang your flag today?

As we talked about it today, Aubrey kept saying she 'didn't get it'. I smiled at her and reassured her that no one did back then either. How is it possible to hate a people so much as to kill them like that. I'd never known that we were hated so much by others. I still don't understand that hate.

I cried as I described to her the story of the brave folks that knowingly sacrificed their lives to fight against the hijackers and take the plane down where it couldn't hurt anyone else. Americans are a tough people. Deep down, we know what is right and how to behave. On this day I pray that God will bless America. Help us to be the nation that he has prepared us to be. My heart is full. I will not forget.

Moving On!

2009-08-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

The last few times I've been online to read blogs, I've felt a pit in my stomach when I read my last entry. I need to get that one off the front page and focus on what's going on.

I guess this will just be random things that are brewing in my head:

1. Brace Face!

Ok, I had a little fun with Photoshop here. Did you guess it was Aubrey? She was so excited about getting braces. We tried to prepare her for the razzing and torment she would get at school by calling her "Brace Face" and "Metal Mouth". She just shrugged and said braces are cool. She did the same thing when she got glasses. I guess it's not like when I was in school. Kids are all about the accessories and "bling". I think the braces make her look so grown up.

2. Beach Days

I don't take my camera to the beach very often. We probably went to the beach on an average of once a week. It was great! Brian stated at the beginning of the summer that he wanted to take the kids to the beach EVERY Saturday. He ended up going ONCE and had so much fun that we took a morning off on a week day to take the kids and Chance to dog beach. Wish I had pictures of that! It was so fun!

3. G'Day Mate

Our good friends from Australia came to visit for a few days. She is Aussie and he's American. They lived in San Diego when Brandon was just little. She could be Brandon's 1st crush. He said (at 2 years old) that he wanted to marry Amber. When we asked what her husband, Matt, would do, Brandon said, "he's had his turn". Fairness is a big deal for 2 year olds, right?! It was great to see them and meet their little boys. So glad they stopped by!

4. School Begins

Time for schedules, routines and traditions. Our family traditions are father's blessings before school starts and a reading of, "The Kissing Hand" before sending them off to the big world. Brandon and Aubrey are getting too old for this sort of thing, but they love the tradition and time together.

On their way to school. They all have great teachers and schedules. No complaints so far. Not sure I'm ready for it all to begin, but they are!

I think you're about caught up on the way our lives keep rolling on. As my girlfriend used to always say, "Life is good, it may not be fair, but it's always good".

Circle of Life

2009-07-31T13:03:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day we had yesterday. I took the kids to the beach where they swam with dolphins close by. Amazing! It was such a peaceful time shared with good friends. Made me so grateful to be by the calming roar of the ocean.

After coming home we finally got the news we'd been waiting all day to hear. One of my dearest friends in San Diego had her 5th baby. We were thrilled! Heidi had a little baby boy, named Noah Benjamin. Aubrey and I went up to the hospital to see him. He's absolutely beautiful with perfect skin. We were laughing that Heidi looked so happy and full of energy, while Josiah was falling asleep in the chair. Heidi is such an amazing example of sweet mothering. She looked very much in love with her little boy.

Then this afternoon I got the news that another of my dearest friends had peacefully passed away last night in her sleep. She had fought cancer for 8 years. Even in her last week, pumped up with morphine, she was still in charge of her home and still in her mommy role. Reminding care takers that books were due at the library and wanting to have final say if her daughter's new bathing suit fit correctly. Cancer had been part their family for so long she teased that it was just one of the family. My heart goes out to her husband and children. They are going to miss Juli's humor, kindness, and love. I know I already do.

As I was thinking of the timing of these two life changing events, I can't help but realize what a blessing life is. To celebrate a new baby and the potential and love waiting to burst forth. To appreciate the love between a mother and child. To remember that the special relationships in our lives is what matters the most, and to cherish friendships and create a stronger family bond.

Blessed, Honored Pioneer

2009-07-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

July 24th is celebrated in Utah as a state holiday to commemorate when the LDS pioneers reached the Salt Lake valley. All through the church there are usually activities to remember. Our area had a breakfast at the Poway lake with a variety of fun runs (5K, mile, etc) around the lake and then games for all ages.

By coincidence, an Apostle of the Lord, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, was in town with his family on vacation. I'm not sure how it worked out, but he agreed to speak to our stake and the craziness began.

This doesn't do the choir justice. It was a hurried picture just before the doors opened.

With two months preparation, a complete concert with a 90 person choir, orchestra, solos, slideshow, and narration was put together. Brian and I decided to join the choir. It was guaranteed to be very challenging, but with the music being so fun it was worth it. After the very first rehearsal, the choir director pulled me aside and asked if I would be willing to help with production management. I wasn't sure what all that entailed, but I'm always willing to help so I agreed. It was so much fun!!! (No, that wasn't sarcasm!) I learned so much about lighting, mic placement, who in the stake and surrounding areas to call on for assistance, etc. With non-stop email, meetings, phone calls, and trials (including the death of one of the director's father), it all culminated into one terrific evening.

Here is the children's choir. Aubrey was asked to participate. She's the pioneer girl with the white bonnet. She did a fantastic job and learned a lot about what it means to sing in a choir.

Elder Holland spoke after the performance. He didn't have anything really prepared, just went with his heart. Let me share what I got out of his talk.

Brian's family comes from solid pioneer stock. They are related to John Taylor (3rd President of the church) and Willard Richards (a counselor under Brigham Young). When I go to family reunions I often hear the praises and apparent brags of this long legacy in the church. It often makes me think of the Asian tradition of ancestor worship. For a long time it kinda creeped me out.

Elder Holland shared a story of a man in his college years that was a convert to the church complaining about how this pioneer history wasn't his. He didn't have family that crossed the plains, why doesn't the church realize that it has gone beyond the borders of the United States and that most people can't relate to that past? Move on and grow up!

At that point Elder Holland stood up (he was also a college aged guy at the time) and told the man boldly that the pioneer heritage belongs to each of us. When we are baptized (no matter from what past, or which country we live in), we sign on to the whole package and automatically join in the family with the same legacy. We all have some gratitude that needs to be extended to those brave and faithful saints that sacrificed so much for us to have what we have today. There were 2,600 people (men, women and children) who died along that trail. They did it because they had faith that God had a place prepared for them to worship and live in peace, and they knew that they were led by a living prophet. The example of those families is a great source of strength to me.

Elder Holland reminded us that with all the weeks of work we all went through to prepare the concert, it all ended in 50 minutes to commemorate what these people sacrificed for us. To each of us. It changed my perspective of how Brian's family talks about their ancestry. It makes me grateful for the legacy my children have.

Not a Fan

2009-07-17T10:46:00.000-07:00

I know people who are up on who the latest stars are, and what movie they are in, who they are dating, etc. I don't even know the names of the people I really like. You know, like that one actor with the really cool voice. I like every movie I've seen/heard him in, but I can never remember his name. Brian knows it. That's good enough for me. Oh, or what about that one actress? She is so funny, and does such a great job with her characters. Again, I don't know her name, but Brian knows. Funny how you become dependent on your spouse for little things like that.

Brian often knows just how I'll react when a simple word is spoken. The word lately has been 'cancer'. Again ... not a fan!!! If there is anything that I really hate, it has to be cancer - and I don't even have it. But I've had so many friends and family that have suffered, and I hate it!

I got an email yesterday telling my that one of my room mates from college has about 3 weeks left. She has been fighting breast cancer for over 8 years with such dignity and strength. She is a friend that was put in my life because God willed it - no other reason.

We met when she was dating one of Brian's friends. After a couple of dates, she knew it wasn't going to go anywhere, but the spirit told her to stay with him. Awhile later the 4 of us double dated, and she realized why she was supposed to date him ... so she could meet me. We talked the entire date and she became my room mate soon after. Right then she also met the man she would marry at one of our regular Sunday night game nights.

We were engaged to terrific guys at the same time. Our wedding rings are very similar because of our late night talks. We both have 3 kids all very close in age (boy, girl, boy), and they play so well together.

This will be the 4th friend who has passed away because of this monster. At the same time, my mother-in-law is dealing with her own battle with breast cancer (very early detection and all seems well). Just the sound of the word cancer makes my body go tense and the tears come to the surface. Brian knows this and puts his arm around me as if by instinct. It doesn't make the pain go away, but it tightens the bond between us because it's unspoken and understood.

So, though I'm not hip and up on pop culture, I know who my heroes are. I don't think 'fan' would describe how I feel for Brian. I'll stick with 'eternal companion', and be grateful for that blessing!

Holiday Fun

2009-07-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

My favorite holiday has always been Christmas, but this year may have changed all that. The 4th of July is the best. Great weather, hanging out with family and friends, eating good food, and just relaxing. No expectation of gifts, decorations, or anything. Truly AWESOME!

This year we started out with a flag raising ceremony at the church and a pancake breakfast. Since we've been away for so long, my goal was to go and talk with everyone. I somehow ended up at the back of the breakfast line and by the time I got through, most people were leaving. So much for that goal. Ha!

We had so many ideas of what fun things we could do. Go swimming with friends, go to the beach, go to the park. In the end we stayed home. Seriously! I think we were all sorta tired of socializing for the last 3 weeks, we just wanted to stay home. Again, a brilliant way to spend a holiday.

We wanted to bbq, but sold ours when we thought we were going to move. I had to make steaks in the oven. Sounds icky, right?! No way. Check out these steaks!!! Sorry, I don't have a picture, but trust me, these turn out perfect every time. Delish!

We watched fireworks with lots of friends at the stake center. Perfect weather, perfect day! Great reminder of how grateful I am that we live in this amazing country. We are truly blessed!

Celebrations ...

2009-07-05T20:51:00.001-07:00

Though this is going to be a travelogue, I want to kinda organize it. We had a FABULOUS vacation, and got to celebrate many great moments with our family!

... 50 years together

The entire reason for the trip was to meet together at a family reunion to celebrate Brian's parent's 50th anniversary. That is such an amazing milestone. We are so happy for the legacy they are leaving for our entire family.

One of my very favorite pictures! How cute are they???

They make 50 years together look good!

... Family Fun

Everyone in the family was able to attend the open house and family reunion, except one niece who is getting ready to enter West Point, and she was missed. After the open house on Friday, we spent all day Saturday at 6 Flaggs St. Louis. They have an amazing water park that was perfect for muggy mid-west weather.

Aubrey had her own unfortunate adventure. She got a huge splinter go right under her finger nail. It was awful. I was so impressed with how quickly and professionally the first aid guy handled it. You'll have to ask to see her finger. The memory lingers.

My favorite part of family reunions is watching how much fun the cousins all have when they are together and getting time to sit and catch up with the families. I really love Brian's siblings and their spouses (the "out laws"). We all live so far away (Washington, Missouri, Illinois & Minnesota), it just feels like home when the house is filled with all the sounds of laughter and talking.

... Traditions

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

It is almost blasphemy that I don't like this stuff. However, it is a fore drawn conclusion that when we go to St. Louis we will be going to Ted Drewes as soon as possible. In fact, we were driving into town around 11 pm when we got a phone call from the family saying to not even go to the hotel ... just meet everyone for custard. This place is always busy (the picture is deceiving). There are no places to sit, only to stand. They turn their "concrete" custard upside down to prove how thick it is. It really is amazing. The family went out to custard 3 times in the short few days we were in town.

... National Parks and Junior Rangers

When ever we take these long road trips, we stop at as many national parks as we can and the kids collect Junior Ranger badges along the way. It's a great way to learn about the area and keep the kids interested. Here are some pictures of what we saw.

~ Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

I loved this place. Makes you wonder how many other hidden holes there are in our world.

~ White Sands, New Mexico

This was the biggest surprise of the trip. We didn't think it was going to be very exciting. I've seen dunes of sand before. This was miles and miles of white gypsum sand that looked like no one had ever touched it. The footprints you see in this photo were ours. The wind blows just enough to cover up the prints pretty quickly. It's like prestine wilderness. We were out there just at sunset. It was gorgeous! I could have camped out there for days!

~ Oklahoma City Bombing, Oklahoma

This wasn't a Junion Ranger visit, but it was very memorable. I think it may have been a little intense for our sheltered children. The thought of 2 people killing that many innocent people over an idealogical point of view. They have done the museum and the monument so well. Very kid friendly, since so many children were killed. They are very sensitive there and have activities for the kids to do to kinda work out their emotions. We had a short, but interesting conversation upon leaving this site.

~ George Washington Carver Museum, Missouri

Seriously, how much do you know about this man??? I sure didn't know anything. It was a very peaceful visit. I loved the walk through the trails. How cute is this family??? Love them!

Here are the kids taking the oath of a Junior Ranger. All very official, and clearly very enthusiastic.

The Search is Over ...

2009-06-08T21:05:00.000-07:00

... you were with me all along. Do you remember that song from way back when??? That's the story on our house hunt. We went through SOOOOOO many houses, but none of them were better than what we have now. So we are staying put. Showing the truly ungrateful person I am, I will admit that I was really sad when we made the ultimate decision to break the contract with the family who was planning on buying our house. I have been blue and moody all weekend. I think I am finally coming out of it and accepting what is. For a little while, it was fun to dream.

On to other news, we are packing up and getting ready for vacation. I am so excited to get away! I just really need a break from everything to do with San Diego right now. We are going on a road trip to St. Louis, Missouri to celebrate the 50th wedding anniversary of Brian's parents. Though St. Louis in the summer is NOT my idea of a relaxing vacation, hanging out with Brian's family is always fun. I love his siblings and their spouses. The kids really enjoy their cousins. It always makes me a little homesick for family after hanging out a couple of days. Maybe I wouldn't feel that way if we ever really lived close to family. We've never had family close so I can't compare it to anything.

And one final note, I have all but finished my 2 year term as PTA president ... and I'm glad it's over. I'm glad I did it, but I'm also happy to be passing the torch to some other unsuspecting sucker!!! Ha!

Homeward Bound???

2009-05-25T07:50:00.001-07:00

Do you like it? It's one of the options for our new home. It's simple, but there is plenty of fresh air (I hear that's good for children). The kitchen is a HUGE down grade from our current one, but it will be nice to not be tied to the hum drum life of a house wife. Ha!

Ok, I gotta laugh so I don't cry. Here's the newest on the house. We were ready to accept an offer on our present home. We were doing our due diligence on the new home. We had the regular inspection, pool inspection, etc. Then we learn that there is a defect in the home that the home owner knew nothing about. We got another type of inspector in there and they said the same as the first.

After much prayer, discussion, moments of denial, and then a couple of reality checks we decided we couldn't take on the liability. It's a fabulous house, and a great fit for our family. It just isn't going to happen.

So ... what to do now. We've gotten 5 offers on our home in a week. We don't want to lose that opportunity, but we also don't want to give up a house that we love if we don't have another that we love more to move into. And, let's be honest, though I LOVE having my house spotless at all times. I'm a bit sick of obsessing about cleaning. I don't know how people do it. My kids are doing awesome at helping, but I sense their resolution weakening. You can be on your best behavior for about a week and then the messy truth springs out. Ha!

We're going to look at a few more homes this week. Our excitement over the whole thing has waned. Maybe we'll find that yard we're hoping to, maybe we won't. Anyone know anyone who wants to sell their house??? (Trying to keep optimism alive).

Locks of Love

2009-05-20T03:58:00.000-07:00

Aubrey has been growing out her hair for over a year. The plan was always to wait until the day after school gets out to cut it and donate it to Locks of Love. However, she came home from school this week and said she wanted to cut it before school got out. I have been looking forward to her cutting it off for so long I was on the phone within 10 minutes trying to find a place to do the deed.

Before

After. She loves her new look.

House update: 3 offers within a week is good, right?!

House Update

2009-05-18T21:58:00.000-07:00

So, we listed our house last Tuesday. Had our first Open House Thursday ... just for the realtors. Then they scheduled Open Houses for both Saturday and Sunday. You'd think after all the time and work we were putting into our house this last week that I'd be glad to be sent away for a few hours each day. NOT! We ran out of things to do and wanted to just rest. Ha! I was so happy to be home and FINISHED with everything on Sunday night.

Today I noticed that they updated the pictures of our house on realtor.com. The photographer did great things with our house. It looks so big and roomy. There is no doubt I LOVE my house! So grateful for all the time and work we were able to put into it.

Also today, we got our first offer! It makes me feel good that someone else also thinks the house is beautiful. It was a LOW offer, and almost made us laugh right out loud. So the game begins of offer, counter offer. No telling how long this will go on. I'll keep you posted.

Adults Only Post

2009-05-10T06:19:00.000-07:00

So why the Adults Only Post title? I dread ruining other people's kids' traditions. Let this be your warning.

We are working like CRAZY to have our house ready for an Open House on Thursday. My "to do" items are getting checked off the list, but they are VERY long lists. One thing that has saved us is that we got a storage shed. It's to make the house seem so much bigger and less packed with junk. This week I tackled all the closets. As I was cleaning the top shelf of my closet I ran into something disturbing. An old sandwich baggie full of baby teeth. What are we, witch doctors? Was I saving them to make a necklace? What do you do with those things??? I've always been afraid to throw them out for fear that a kid would find the evidence of no tooth fairy one sad day. But now the jig is up. All my kids are "in the know". It was with great relief that I threw that sick little sack away! Eww!

On to house news. Yesterday was full work day. We all awoke at 6 am to have the garage sale going at 7 am. (We were highly successful selling to 2 costumers and raking in an impressive $12. Why did we wake up early again???) Anyway, while the sale was (not) happening, the kids were also outside weeding the front planters. Brian and I were packing the van for a storage shed run and getting everything off the floors to have the carpets cleaned.

At one point we had a handyman (finishing bathroom), at AT&T worker, a realtor, a painter (giving color advice), a landscaper (preparing a bid), and carpet cleaners (running their machines) all in and about our house at once. It was CRAZY! While I was a little on overdrive, I did feed off the energy. It was such a great feeling to know things were moving in the right direction and getting done!!!

The "to do" list for this week: Finish painting bathroom, do paint touch up on walls (how do shoe marks get that high up there??), clean out garage, fix a closet door, do a couple of dump runs, and take down posters in kids' rooms. Oh, and then stage the house to make it look like no one actually lives here, only stores their furniture. This part I dread!

I think we're going to make it!!! And then I can sleep! :)

House For Sale

2009-05-05T21:31:00.000-07:00

We have been so crazy busy! I have missed PTA obligations, missed working in the classroom and even forgot about teacher appreciation week. Too much going on.

For those who don't know, Brian and I thought it might be a good time to find a new house with more land. I thought we were just looking to find a neighborhood we liked and then watch that area for a couple of years until the right house came on the market. Good plan, right?!

You guessed it. Within just a few weeks we found a house (thanks, Diane) that we totally love. So, as of Monday our house is up for sale. If you know anyone looking for a 4 bedroom, 3 bath house ... just let me know. :)

If we sell it quick enough, the house is ours. I'm so hoping someone thinks our house is as cool as we think it is. I love my house. The kitchen is AWESOME! In fact, though I love the new house, the kitchen is a definite down grade.

Between now and Monday, we'll finish the bathroom, fix the fence, paint touch up's, pack extras, have the carpets cleaned, and a billion other things. I'm tired just thinking about it.

Mad Scientist

2009-04-30T11:29:00.001-07:00

Lunch anyone???

Jon is loving school this year! His teacher brought in dead, slimy squids for the kids to dissect. Seriously, in 2nd grade!!! Check out his enjoyment of the assignment. He especially liked that the girl he had to work with wasn't afraid to use her hands and help! What a great experience.

Construction Zone

2009-04-29T08:18:00.001-07:00

When you read that title, what do you think of? Dust? Yep! Tools everywhere? Yep! Life in disarray? Yep, again!

It all started when I was organizing the towels in the guest bathroom. As I pulled them out to fold them correctly, I noticed the ones shoved to the back were completely ruined with bleach stains. The caulk between the counter and back splash had slowly crumbled away over the years. Leaving a great escape for all the water and bleach used when cleaning the counters.

We had planned to change just the vanity. But the pergo flooring didn't continue under the vanity so we would have to change the flooring. But if we change the vanity, we'd also have to change the cupboard behind the door since the woods wouldn't match. And if we're doing the tile on the floor, we really should upgrade the tile in the shower. And, seriously, can you have a stained bath tub when the rest of the room is brand spankin' new???

Nice studs, huh?! So, this weekend we have company coming. The idea was to replace the tub and have the tiles done so they would be able to use the shower. Then Brian got hit with the same illness that has rocked our house for a month. We are a bit behind on the schedule (I can empathize with contractors now). The friends will have to use the kids' shower, and we will try to make the room seem a little more user friendly by the time they arrive. :)

Traditions: New & Old

2009-04-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

I am CRAZY about holidays. Love to decorate the house. Love to cook special meals. Love to create the spirit of anticipation with my kids. So on Friday night we joined together to color eggs. Brandon was away at a sleep over, but the rest of us were eager to play.

In the middle of the project Jon turns to me and says, "This is the first time I've ever done this. This is fun!"

Can you believe that??? Make no mistake, the older two kids have colored eggs in their life time. It just appears that I lost interest around 8 years ago. (oops!) In my defense, we have made these eggs every year. And the ones we make are MUCH tastier!!!

Each year we do our family Easter egg hunt with the Drews at Poway Lake on Saturday. This was the first year we were rained out and had to move the hunt indoors. To make the picnic special we pick up KFC, it's the only time of the year we eat it and it makes everything REALLY easy!

This is one photogenic group of kids, eh?!

On Saturday night we wanted to bring the reality of the season into focus. We had a simple dinner and turned all the lights in the house off. We ate with only a few candles on the table. We talked about how the earth suffered during the crucifixion and the physical darkness the people expereinced. And what it really means for Christ to be the light of the world. The kids had a lot of insightful questions, and it was a good discussion. I love this season and what we really celebrate.

Double Digits

2009-04-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Aubrey celebrated the big 1-0! I get so emotional thinking about how fast they grow up. How silly is that?! It is what I want, right?! I mean, I do want them to grow up, be independent, and get out. Still, there is something so sweet about her calling me in her room just for a talk and a hug. She's a great girl.

Check out her smile! She loves being with friends!

We did a double celebration for both Brandon's & Aubrey's birthday. (It's a long story about why we didn't celebrate Brandon's in February, but suffice it to say he's not being neglected or less loved!)

They each got to invite very few friends to a day at Boomers! It was AWESOME! They came to our house for cake and presents first. Then we drove them to play. Then we drove them home. No mess, no worries! They had a BLAST! Here are some highlights!

Bumper Boats - The girls thought they were wet until we saw the boys. They came off the boats dripping!

Go Carts - This was the first time Brandon hit the height to drive alone. He was in race car heaven!

Laser Tag - Check out Jon's fierce look!

Field Trip

2009-04-01T17:20:00.000-07:00

I am a sucker for field trips. I love all the places that teachers find to take the kids and teach their lessons. Today, Aubrey's class went to the "Rancho Buena Vista Adobe" house. It was so much fun to see how the old ranchos worked and to see the old period pieces they've found to restore the place. Here are some of the highlights from the trip:

Branding Leather

Dipping Candles

Seeing the old time appliances. Check out this refrigerator!

I loved this piece. It's a SQUARE grand piano. I never knew grand pianos came square! Look at the legs. They are very sturdy!

While explaining about the piano, the docent asked if anyone was taking piano lessons. Aubrey raised her hand and she was invited to play for the class. She stirred the audience with a riveting rendition of "Pizzicato Polka". Very cool!

Home Improvement!

2009-03-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

We finally got through all the prep and updated the look of our house. It's only taken 2 years to get it done, but I think it's AWESOME!

This is 'BEFORE' ... way before. This was taken the day we got the keys to the house - about 6 years ago. Note the clean garage. Wow, that's been gone for years! hee, hee!

Here is the AFTER! Taa Daa! Isn't the color pretty? I like how clean and sharp it looks.

Ok, this is my favorite part. I got a red door. Yay! It's totally against the HOA rules for us to have a red door, but I'm hoping it is so far back away from the street that they won't notice. Shhh! Don't tell.

Why, you may ask, would one want a red door? I'm not really sure. I've always wanted one and decided to check online to see what the story was behind it. Here's my little teaching moment for the day. Remember, I found this online so it all must be true.

Did you know ...

In early America a red door was a sign of "welcome." When people had to travel by horse and buggy they had to stop often. If they came upon a house with a red door that usually meant they would be able to spend the night. There is even rumor that a red front door was used in the under ground railroad as a sign for the slaves traveling north that that house was a safe house.

In old Catholicism the doors of a church were painted red to represent the blood of Christ and other Martyrs and once you passed thru the doors the ground (church floor) was holy ground.

The Feng Shui aspect of painting your door Red is that the front door is considered the "Mouth of Chi" where all good energy enters a space. Red is considered to be the most auspicious color in Feng Shui. So it's done to attract luck and good energy.

In Scotland when you paid off your mortgage you painted your door red.

Ok, so that last one will not be our reality for a really long time, but it all sounds positive. My red door is certainly welcoming to me. And the first reason, you know, the one about welcoming travelers is definitely true! Hotel Wetzker is pretty much always open. Call for Reservations!

Sicky Cup Day

2009-03-23T09:03:00.000-07:00

Today is a not so good, horrible day for my kidlets. All three of them are sick, you know, the throwing up feeling icky type of sick. We've never had all three sick at one time. Since my kids were little they all have requested the "Sicky Cup" (instead of sippy cup) when they are sick. Now they are big and don't use the sippy cup, unless they are sick. Today 2 of them have asked for it ... and we only have one cup left (the most favorite Sponge Bob cup). B is too big for such childish things, but he's glad I'm home with them. I love the funny traditions of kids. Here's hoping they get better soon!

Random Ramblings

2009-03-22T18:21:00.000-07:00

This past week has been a cruel sort of torture for my kids. Our close friends (Rick & Eileen) came over from Arizona to visit. Their kids have Spring Break while ours still had classes. To hear how their kids were going to Sea World, the Light House, the tide pools, etc .... man, the groans and justification for not going to school were never ending. I have to say, I almost went for it on Friday, but we stayed strong and our kids went to school.

Brandon got some good babysitting practice as we left the entire brood of kids under his watchful eye on Saturday night. He is 12 now and has been wanting to get more experience with babysitting. He did really well keeping the kids entertained, feeding them dinner, and even changing a diaper. We got the biggest kick when we got home and found that he put the diaper on backwards. Ha! Every experience is for our learning, right?!

While he babysat, the adults went to walk the streets of La Jolla to check out the art galleries. That is one of my favorite things to do. This time we seemed to steer more towards the photography than the painting. That may have something to do with Brian's new photography group that he's been working with. Didn't find anything that tempted us to spend money, but we did see some amazing talent that inspired me.

This month Brian and I have been really searching for some direction about a particular opportunity that has come up. After praying, talking for hours, fighting (a little) and coming to a decision I have been really surprised with the calm I've felt. (As you can guess, the decision didn't go the way I was hoping). This week the 2 answers that came to me were: 1. for as long as we can afford to stay in San Diego, I need to enjoy every minute of it. This is such a beautiful place and the people we know are so amazing! After thinking about it, we are really living in a paradise here and I don't think there is any other place that I would enjoy more. (I'm a bit of a weather wimp). And 2. though we live so far from family, we are creating a family of our own choosing as we deepen the friendships that we have with those here in San Diego and those who come to visit. Moral to the story: Stop Whining!!!

Nothing Says Loving Like a Home Cooked Meal

2009-03-13T08:59:00.000-07:00

Ok, so this isn't a food blog, I promise. I still don't have a camera, so I have to steal pictures from other people. Since I am stealing recipes from other sites too, I might as well share. Ha!

After reading about these "Amazing Grilled Cheese Sandwiches" on Taste Buds blog, I thought I had to try them. I'm sure they are horrible on points, but after being sick 2 weeks, not being able to exercise (I hate lung issues), and still losing a few pounds (small perk for being sick) I thought it would be okay!

They were SO GOOD! The kids worried about the apple, but they lost all concern after just one bite!

Let's face it, you can't really have a grilled cheese without tomato soup. I have been known to open a can and just enjoy the simple version, but for a special sandwich you need special soup. I perused the blogs and websites and went for the Barefoot Cantessa's "Roasted Tomato Basil Soup" from Food Network.

I used an immersion blender and made my soup a little chunkier. Also, when I make it again I won't use so much of the red pepper flakes. It didn't turn out really spicey, but the kids didn't like the "kick" at the back of the throat. The soup was very good and I am grateful for the left overs!

PAY IT FORWARD!

2009-03-06T13:46:00.000-08:00

How it works: The FIRST THREE people to leave a comment on this post will receive at some point during this year a handmade gift from me. What it will be and when it will arrive will be a total surprise--to both of us.

The CATCH is that YOU MUST PLAY TOO! Before you leave your comment here, write a pay it forward post on your blog to keep the fun going (you can cut and paste these instructions). Then come back and let me know that you are going to play, and sit back and anticipate the arrival of your gift. It's THAT easy!

Remember, only the FIRST THREE comments will qualify. Good luck!

When Comfort Comes from Pie

2009-03-04T08:09:00.001-08:00

Sometimes life goes along fine, and then it just don't. I've been sick for about 2 weeks now. I went to the doctor just to be told I have a cold, "go home, drink lots of water, you'll feel better in (get this) 6-8 weeks". Yay!!! Such hope he gives. I guess this coughing thing doesn't let up like it used to.

During this sick time, I lost my camera. This shouldn't be a big deal, but somehow I feel lost without it. I haven't had much energy to really hunt for it, but it's not where it should be. I even had a dream last night about it being in some obscure place. I was on a lot of codeine at the time so I can't remember this morning where I should be looking. I'll never make a good druggie!

And then Brandon is away at 6th grade camp. He'll be gone all week. No letters, no phone calls. One mom warned me that things would just feel a little off. And they do. I keep looking to count him in on everything (like setting the table, scripture study time, etc). I think of all kinds of things I want to tell him. Things he'd really laugh at (like the cat bringing home a lizard and a bird). What kind of mess will I be when he's gone on a mission??? Eeks! Poor kid will never be allowed out of the house again after this week. Ha! (ok, it's not that bad).

Yesterday was the first day I've felt a little bit better. I decided I needed a comfort dinner, and dang it, no one in my family was cooking so I had to do it myself. I've always heard of people making shepherd's pie, and theoretically it seems like something I would like. I've only eaten one and it was very tomato-y, and very icky! I tried this one from foodnetwork:

The family all agreed it was a winner (hint: I did add a little more Worcestershire sauce and a bit more of tomato paste than the recipe called for) ... overall, it was really simple. I also made the homemade whole-wheat biscuits that were part of this episode. Very yummy night. Not sure how many points, but I only ate a "jon-jon" sized portion, so I should be good.

"Worth the Points" Brownies

2009-03-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

Brandon is heading off to a week long 6th Grade Camp. We are celebrating in our typical fashion ... with yummy food. He picked a family favorite crock pot dinner: French Dip Sandwiches (thanks, Alisa). And then for dessert I had to come up with something new. It's just a hobby of mine I can't seem to give up. Check these out!!!

It has fresh ginger, cinnamon, ancho chile pepper powder, and they come together in a really unexpected way. Nothing too spicey, just a little accent of flavor! I found this recipe from the Recipe Girl blog. She's fabulous! It's only 4 points per brownie, and so worth it for this yummy treat.

Once Upon a Time ...

2009-02-19T07:47:00.000-08:00

... a long time ago, I was getting ready during my final semester at SDSU. I remember feeling so strongly that there was no reason for us to put off having kids and we should start our family. Brian was reading in the living room when I told him what I was feeling. I could see him gulp a bit, but then a peace came over us both and we knew it was the right time.

The joy and love that has entered our lives since that decision was made couldn't have come any other way. Brandon Joshua has always been a light in our family.

At 2 years old, always trying to learn and explain how things work.

Brandon at 4, he broke his wrist jumping off the bunk bed.
He's always had a fun sense of humor!Brandon is such a good b ig brother.
He's a great example and loves p laying with his siblings.At 8, loving the buzz cut!

Now he's 12 years old! He's almost as tall as I am,
in middle school, and making choices of his own.

I'm so proud of this boy. His Grandpa Wetzker was in town this weekend to help ordain him a Deacon in the Priesthood. Brandon took this passage with reverence and extreme excitement. Not having grown up in the church, it was something wonderful to see. Three generations of strong, worthy men.

Not to say this boy isn't a typical 12 year old kid. He is silly and together we're learning what it's like having a pre-teen in the house! He makes life fun! Happy Birthday "B"! We love you!!!

Little Milestone

2009-02-08T21:39:00.000-08:00

So, some of you know that I've been doing the Weight Watchers thing since New Year. I made a pretty significant (in my own mind) milestone this weekend and am very happy. My kids are so encouraging and that really boosts me. Now I get to share a dark side of my brain.
Ready for true confessions?

I happen to have many very pretty friends. No, I'm not kidding. They all have several children and still have great bodies and terrific attitudes. One friend in particular will tell you straight out how hard she works to get her body to look and work the way she wants it to. It doesn't come easy and she puts the time and energy into it. She inspires me!!! However, when I hear all these beautiful women sit together and gab about all they are doing and all they are not eating, I have found myself defeated. Knowing I'll never run a marathon (and, to be honest, don't ever want to), and will never look as toned as they.
Here's where fate smiles brightly.

Very many of them are pregnant now. (Can you hear the sinister little cackle?) Seriously, the water is crazy in this area and the baby boom has hit once again. So, my dirty confession is that while they are lamenting on the few pounds they are gaining each week, I am inside feeling like a champion because I continue to knock off a couple of pounds a week. Pathetic???? Why, yes, yes I am! I'm not particularly proud of that fact, but I am just a little bit proud of my accomplishment tonight!

And just between you and me, these same amazingly beautiful women look soooo pretty prego! They don't think so, and they have aches and pains, but they do the baby baking thing with such style!!!

California Dreamin'

2009-02-07T19:58:00.000-08:00

We have been having unseasonably warm weather for the last 2 months. Beautiful beach days in January are a real treat when we're reading about some places in the country. Today we got a bit of unusual weather. Check out this white stuff.

Our front yard flower bed blanketed with hail!

Brandon is my boy that wears shorts no matter the weather. Can you see how white the street is? That's all hail. He was dared to run across the street and back. He was freezing when he finally came in!

Cast Laughs

2009-02-03T18:53:00.000-08:00

I have been writing more about this dog than I have my kids, lately. Let's face it, there are times when animals are much cuter than our pre-teen children! Lately that has been the case! I'll save that for a different post ... maybe, if it doesn't depress me too much.

Comet came back to us after 2 days of sedation with this lovely cast! It's HUGE! I guess that's what you get when you go to the vet in Mexico! Ha! Oh, the silver part on the bottom is Duct tape. They put it on to try to keep it dry and protected on the bottom. See, anything can be fixed with Duct Tape. Doesn't he look like he has a raquetball raquet on his leg? Poor guy! Is it okay to have family and friends sign the cast? Wouldn't that be funny!? (Just like my kids, I use this poor animal for my own entertainment! It's an illness I tell you!)

He doesn't even seem to notice it. He runs all over, goes on walks, and jumps on Chance as if he were 100%. Dogs are very adaptable. He's still a sweet, loving little puppy. He crawled right in my lap when I was sitting down on the floor.

Sad News

2009-01-29T22:07:00.000-08:00

When we got our foster puppy, Comet, he had a sore back leg. They said it was probably just a pulled muscle, but it has lasted all week and he never sleeps on his right side. It seems like a puppy would get over a pulled muscle faster. They took him to the vet today and his leg is BROKEN. They are keeping him for 2 days at the vet, on strong drugs to keep him still. We won't get him back until Sunday. Poor little guy. I'm sad!

25 Random Things

2009-01-28T14:32:00.000-08:00

I'm such a follower. On Facebook there is a crazy "tag" game going on where you have to put down 25 random things about yourself. I'm following another friend who also posted it on her blog, for those of you who don't do Facebook. J, I hope you don't mind!

1. I am a very sarcastic person. I was sad when there was a General Conference talk which said that sarcasm is not good. I guess I don't sustain everything they say at conference. Ha, ha!

2. One of my favorite flavors is chocolate mint. I learned that about myself with my first pregnancy.

3. I love doing crafty things: paint, scrapbook, quilt, computer design.

4. I didn't know I had any artistic ability until after I was married. My husband encouraged me to try things out.

5. I love cooking. I would love to cook for a living, but wouldn't like someone else to tell me what to make.

6. I also love baking. I get very energized to make gourmet treats, but I often don't want to eat them. My husband LOVES that quality. He is a happy food taster!

7. I never know who famous people are. I just can't keep up and have never cared. Even in High School. Good thing my husband has an amazing memory and holds on to trivial stuff like that for me.

8. I have never had a life's dream. You know, "if I could be anything what would I be", type of thing. I admire people who have a dream! I am a really hard worker and think if I had a direction like that I could accomplish anything, but I don't know what I'd want to accomplish.

9. I've had many un-related jobs that could have opened the door for a real career: telemarketer (okay, not this one, but it's fun to admit I did it), TV camera person, drug & alcohol counselor, director of marketing.

10. I can talk to anyone, but only connect with few.

11. I could people watch all day long. I am fascinated by people and why they do what they do.

12. I'm far too judgmental for my own good.

13. I love driving. When we go on vacations I always prefer to drive rather than fly ... even if it is across country. I am horrible at reading maps, though. I find driving relaxing! I usually do at least 1/2 the driving on all trips.

14. The church/gospel is so important to me, I find it hard to understand when friends and family members don't get it.

15. One of the most attractive characteristics of my husband is his willingness to serve others! It was one of the first things I noticed about him, and the thing that impresses me most even today.

16. Many people think my husband is very quiet and don't get how we could be together. He makes me laugh like no one else can. I think he is hilarious.

17. I love to read and study politics, but then have to step away because I get overwhelmed in the negativity and dishonesty.

18. I never wanted to raise my kids in California because of the school system and fast pace of life.

19. I love to read. Especially when it rains!!! On my mission it rained so much that I decided I wouldn't go in the rain unless I HAD to. In SD there are so few rainy days, I can always put things off for a day and just snuggle under a blanket with a good book.

20. I would love to live in the country with all the benefits of the city: shopping, theatre, colleges, etc.

21. I love cars. The old muscle cars that go really fast and make a lot of noise. I like Harley Davison motorcycles for the same reason.

22. I think being a stay at home mom is the most amazing thing I've ever been, but I assume other people think I'm lazy for not working outside the home.

23. My kids get my sense of humor and that makes me worry for their future. Ha! Ok, not really, but I really love that they get me! Their future is their own problem, right?!

24. I cry at the drop of a hat. Commercials, talks at church, knowing someone is sad.

25. Talking in front of a large group of people doesn't bother me at all.

Obedience Training

2009-01-27T08:39:00.000-08:00

I am having so much fun with this puppy. He's learning to sit, walk a leash, has had no accidents in the house, and hasn't chased any of the cats. He sleeps in the crate, but it's not his favorite thing. I think he'd rather sleep upstairs with the family. Still, he doesn't whine about it so I'll be grateful for small favors! I'm making it sound like we're such great trainers, when in reality I think Chance is doing all the work. Comet sees how Chance behaves and he mimics it. It gets him treats, so I guess he's a pretty smart dog. ha!

Chance on the left, Comet on the right. They are demonstrating how to behave when they've been kicked out of the dining room at dinner time.

It's a Boy!!!

2009-01-26T09:28:00.000-08:00

Brian and I have been talking about possibly fostering or adopting for quite awhile. A friend contacted us this weekend with this opportunity and we had to take it!
His name is Comet and he's about 6 months old. He is a terrier mix and so calm and sweet. So far we haven't had many problems with him, but I'm sure he'll start showing his true colors after hanging out for a few days. We don't know how long he'll be here, so the kids are loving him up and much as possible. If you know anyone interested in a little cutie like this one, let me know. But not for a couple of days. We're having too much fun with him!

Oh, and for the record. Brian is NOT thrilled with another dog in the house. We really have been talking about fostering or adopting a (human) baby. This was just cheaper and required no paperwork. Ha!

Lurkers

2009-01-14T13:51:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought about the possibility that there are complete strangers reading your blog? People who have just happened to find you by clicking on someone else's blog, or because of a google search, and now there you are. Your world wide open to whoever decides to take a peak. I have some friends who worry so much about this possibility that they hide the names of their children, or just use initials. (I privately speculate that these people are really under the Federal Witness Protection Program and must be more cautious than most).

Then there are the lurkers who aren't even strangers. Family and friends who read your blog, even comment in personal conversation about it, but have never left a comment, so there's no certainty that they are there, or when. These types are the ones that worry me today.

My cousin, in Texas, is having her first baby girl next month. This is so exciting. She is 11 years younger than me, and growing up I thought she was AMAZING! Not having a sister of my own and being the youngest, "L" (in case she is reading) became the little sister I always wanted. I am so thrilled that she and "G" are doing so well and their little family is growing. So, in true crafter's fashion I made her a baby quilt. Now, this is where the lurking worry comes in. I really doubt that she reads this blog but, "L", if you are reading please act surprised when you get the package.

I have been collecting denim for over 2 years now. From friends, goodwill, waiting for kids to out grow the really cute jeans. I thought it fit the style of a Texas girl. I've never worked with denim before, so there are some things I would have done different, but still I think it worked out okay. Click on the picture to see the detail of the cute paisley printed denim. I think that was a skirt.

The other side is this really cute dragonfly flannel. It is so soft and warm. And the way the denim mixes with the flannel is really fun. I hope she likes it, because each square was truly stitched with love.

What I Did Over Christmas Vacation

2009-01-06T20:12:00.001-08:00

Ok, this really has more to do with what Brian did than what I did. My entire vacation was cook a meal, clean it up, cook another meal, clean it up, cook another meal ... well, you see where that was going.

This is the first year Brian took 2 weeks off during the holidays. He is not a guy that can not sit around during his time off (much to my delight). He built this 8 foot book case in the garage under the watchful, and envious, eyes of the neighbors.

This one book case holds the same amount of books that were stored in 2 weak, ugly bookcases. It's made our office so much more roomy. We might even be able to use it as a guest room now.

He now has plans to make another book case for our room upstairs. We're hoping to get some of the books stored in the attic down and accessible.

Verdict's In

2009-01-02T09:39:00.000-08:00

The Urgent Care called and said there is no fracture, only soft tissue damage. Then he threw in just a little something to keep a mom worrying. He said there is so much swelling that there is a concern that Jon's growth platelets may be damaged. Seriously, I'm not stressed. What's the worse that could happen? His hand grows normal and he has an iddy biddy little pinkie. Ha! No, he's not in any pain - which is what the doctor told us to be looking for - so he's fine.

It's all fun and games until ...

2008-12-31T12:43:00.000-08:00

... someone gets a finger chopped off! Brian has been working diligently in the garage all week on a new book case (pictures will come when project is complete). Needless to say, we have lots of scrap wood hanging around the garage. Brandon and Jon (being the boys they are) decided that they looked like perfect swords. After one unfortunate swat, Jon came down hard with a slice on his pinkie that sent us on a 3 hour adventure to Urgent Care.

After 3 or 4 people looked at it, they decided no stitches would be required, but there was concern about whether it was broken or not. Jon and I went into "deal" mode. If it were broken, he had to have ice cream for dessert. If it wasn't broken, he'd have to settle for Joe Joe's (a peppermint Oreo treat). Either way, he was set. We're still waiting for the Urgent Care folks to call us back on the verdict. Holidays are not good times for medical issues.

Happy New Year to EVERYONE out there in blogville! Be safe and have a wonderful celebration!

Life Lessons on the Trail

2008-12-27T21:02:00.000-08:00

I don't think I can express how much I really LOVE the entire Christmas season. With all the exhaustion of the preparation, shopping, cooking, parties, kids' activities, etc. In the end, the significance always outweighs the stress and craziness. I love sharing that sweet holiday spirit with strangers, feeling a sense of commonality. Watching the kids act out the Nativity story. Reading scriptures together and singing hymns. It's such a special time of the year. I love having a home where these things are shared!

A few years ago we started a new tradition of hiking every Christmas Eve day. This serves two purposes. One, it is a completely, uninterrupted family time. There aren't many people on the trails the day before Christmas! And two, the kids are so tired by the end of the day that they have no problem getting to bed and to sleep at a normal hour, even with all the anticipation.

This year we went to Iron Mountain. It was a great hike.

The head of the trail. I love this shot!At the top! We made it!

As we were hiking down Jon and I had an interesting conversation.

J: Mom, do you promise, promise you don't come down stairs and fill up my stocking? (You know it's true when it's a 'promise, promise')
K: Wow, why would you ask that?
J: Cuz lots of kids say their parents are Santa. So, do you promise, promise?
K: What do you think?
J: I don't know. (Frustration now growing) Do you promise, promise?
K: You know, if you really want to know, I'll tell you. Are you sure you are ready to know?
J: Yes!
K: Ok ... (deep breath) I can't promise, promise.
J: (Totally confused) Why not?
K: Think about it a minute and you tell me.
J: Ohhhh! So, is there a real Santa?
K: (stealing a line from Miracle on 34th Street). Santa is a symbol of Christmas giving. Mom and dad have that spirit with us, so we keep the tradition of Santa going. Does it upset you to know?
J: No. It's okay. Wanna run? (and the subject was dropped)

Brandon asked when he was 9. He was not disappointed, rather very excited to be part of the conspiracy. Aubrey has made it clear that she will never ask because she likes believing. Jon didn't seem sad about it. In fact, I think he's in full denial. He still spoke of his Santa gift as if we had never had our conversation. I just think it's fun for them to believe. It's part of the magic that I never had as a kid. I love the game and am glad my kids are players!

Christmas Time is Here ...

2008-12-16T13:26:00.000-08:00

Most of you know our street is a fun place to be for the holidays. We have "lookie-loos" starting after Thanksgiving that slowly drive up and down the block to see the abundance in lights and blow up displays.

Brian really seems to dislike blow up displays. If you know him, you know he's not that opinionated. But this is one thing he has pretty much spoken out against and will never be seen on our lawn. So, I had to think of something different. How's this one for a fun holiday scene?! It took me a couple of weeks to finish, and I'm hoping it will last a few years - which will make holiday decorating easy.

For those of you in SD, we are having our 4th annual neighborhood "open house" this Friday night starting at 6:30 pm. That means you can walk, or drive, down the street and examine all the displays, chat with friendly folk, and enjoy treats that are provided by the neighborhood. Hot chocolate, cookies, candy canes, etc. One house even provides treats for your dog. It's great fun!

Happy Holiday Fun!

2008-12-11T13:48:00.000-08:00

Jon came home from school this week telling us about this funny site. It seemed like a good idea at the time ...

Bring in the Clowns

2008-12-08T21:14:00.000-08:00

Here's the house in it's circus-like glory! Nice, eh?! No more critters! Totally worth it!

Though I didn't see it, I hear that Olive Garden was tenting the same week. I can't imagine how much work it takes to get a restaurant ready for this. I was overwhelmed with just our food storage issues! EEKS!

Gab Session!!!

2008-12-05T09:04:00.001-08:00

Do you ever just need a girl friend's point of view, but never have a moment to get them all together? This is the joy of blogging, I hope! Here's my dilemma ... HELP!

Brian and I are at a loss of how to do the holiday gift exchange between the two of us. I mean we've only been married 13 years, shouldn't we have this part figured out? It's only come up 13 times. Do you have this problem? All the things he would want are technical and I need him with me to pick the right ones. He's gone so far as to create an Amazon wish list (they have EVERYTHING) so I can just pick things, but still there is no surprise. I am just as picky about my wish list. The thing is, there's no surprise happy look on Christmas morning. I want that for Brian. So .......

What do you do in your family?
What's your spouse gift exchange tradition?

Holiday Treasures

2008-12-03T09:10:00.000-08:00

This year's ward ornament exchange was so much fun. There are so many creative and fun sisters in the ward. I was so happy to chat with ladies that I never get to see. That was the best part of the night!!!

A plain tree can become . . . a Victorian girl.

This was the ornament that almost wasn't. I was so insecure about whether it was good enough. In the end I think it came out pretty cute.

Look at all the treasurers I came home with! Except for the one that was so fun it caught my son's eye and he already broke! AUGH! Gotta love those curious ones!

Thanksgiving Week

2008-11-29T10:46:00.000-08:00

Our school district gives the kids the entire week of Thanksgiving off. It's especially nice when Brian can take the week off of work too.

We planned for our house to get fumigated over this week so that we could go somewhere fun, since we'd have to pay for a hotel anyway. We took our first trip ever to Mammoth. It was AWESOME! Brian took the kids for a 3 hour ski lesson and then they skied, and skied!

The mountain was beautiful. The snow was good, especially the first day. Jon didn't use sticks. The other kids were a little nervous about his skiing technique. He had no fear. He just went straight down, as fast as he could. It was so fun to watch them play.

Those red jackets made finding them on the slopes really easy!

It snowed the day we were coming home. The kids had never played in such fluffy stuff. They built a snowman, had snowball fights, made snow angels, and unanimously agreed that we needed to either live where it snows or go back to Mammoth soon!

As for me, I have no confidence in my ability to fall down the hills gracefully. I stayed in the condo with the fire burning. I spent time reading, finishing up my ornaments, watching TV, exploring the village, and shopping. Brian took the van, so I got to know Mammoth by foot. It was awesome to feel cold and get us all in the mood for the holidays.

We all came home a bit under the weather. We got home Wednesday night, and darn it there was no time to defrost a turkey. Ha! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving at Marie Callendar's. It was a very calm holiday, and for that I am grateful. The kids got along so well and played together the entire time. One of the surprise games that caught the kids' attention at the condo was Battleship. I haven't played that in years! The kids LOVED it! Another big hit is the game "Whoonu". Jon got it for his birthday and we finally broke it out over the holiday. Just trying to share game ideas for your holiday shopping! Ha!

Procrastination

2008-11-19T10:24:00.000-08:00

I'm an expert at putting things off. For example, our house is getting fumigated next week. I should be packing up my food and medicines into annoying little bags, but I'm not. We're heading off to Mammoth this weekend. I should be finding snow clothes for my kids, but I'm not. I have 2 weeks to finish my ornaments for this insane ornament exchange. I actually made 8 ornaments, and then decided I didn't like them and trashed them all. Now I'm starting over and am afraid I won't like the results again, so I'm having a hard time being inspired.

AND YET ... I have time for this:

I ended up being co-team mom (with Heidi) for Aubrey's (and Hannah's) soccer team. This weekend is the final touraments for her and Jon's teams. I decided to have fun and make these adorable (3 day process) cookies. See, you have time to do whatever it is you WANT to do. Ha!

The soccer season was great! Brandon's team ended their season last week. They came in 2nd for their level. Aubrey's team didn't do as well, but she was invited to try-out for the All-Stars team. And Jon just loves being out there. He is a hustler and tries to do whatever it is that the coach tells him. He's always on the field yelling, "I'm open, I'm open" ... even when he's not. Great season!

Designs in Floral

2008-11-14T16:31:00.000-08:00

You know, I really enjoy crafts. I get a little giddy when I am collecting the raw materials of a project I am working on. I feel good when I complete a mini-master piece. I would go so far as to say that I have some creative abilities that make the process fun. I don't feel confident enough to say I have any actual TALENT. I'm a pretty good instructions follower and a great idea thief. This realization makes me more appreciate those who have REAL talent.

My girlfriend, Jen, is one of those people. She helped with Super Saturday this last weekend. She can create the cutest things from a simple inspiration like a cute ribbon or paper. She amazes me.

Another person I really admire is my sister-in-law. She has taken her hobby of collecting and drying flowers and made it into a real business. You have to see the temple pictures she's created OUT OF FLOWERS!!!

Incredible. How much patience is needed to do these things??? Check out her website! Seriously, if you're looking for a unique Christmas, wedding, or other gift, this is a great idea.

Scout Camporee

2008-11-11T07:37:00.000-08:00

Brandon getting shooting instruction

Brandon & a friend canoeing the day away

One of the biggest joys we get as parents is watching our kids enjoy their "life experiences". Brandon really likes scouting, and camping is the BEST. Brian went along for this campout, and it was so much fun to watch their excitement.

Brandon LOVES shooting. He has been trying to work out when we can go shooting again. I'm thinking our visit to Utah will have to be sooner than later so he can learn more about this fascinating new hobby. Hmmm, should I be worried that my 11 year old is so into this???

I have to say, I'm NOT a big supporter of the scouting program. Brian was an Eagle Scout, worked at scout camp during the summers when he was a teen, and did his time as scout leader taking boys camping every month for 4 years straight. Our deal is I would deal with Cub Scouts, and he would have to do Boy Scouts. I've been warned that I'm fooling myself and that a boy doesn't reach Eagle scout without his mom's help. I now categorize this as a science experiment and will see if that theory holds water. Ha! It's only Brandon's future we're talking about, right!? (I can see the moms of scout aged boys all cringing out there).

Halloween Fun

2008-11-03T19:57:00.000-08:00

My kids pick their costumes for odd reasons. Both boys set the standard for their look to be anything where they could wear shorts and a t-shirt. Jon chose to be "birthday boy". We had to buy the balloon and the pin labeling him as the birthday boy. Original, eh?! Brandon's Charlie Brown is recycled from last year. And Aubrey is a pioneer, wearing the outfit that her grandmother made her. You can only see the apron and not the fancy skirt underneath. Too cute!

"The Friendly Ghosts"

Halloween is a big deal on our street. We get lots of kids, and the decorations are everywhere. Some homes were pretty scary, but we're all about a "Happy" Halloween. I didn't think much of the decorations until I started seeing people take pictures of our ghosts. Why would you do that??? Are there people who actually scrapbook pictures of other people's decorations??? It just made me laugh.