A Garden of Friends is Always in Bloom

A Fresh Start...

2011-02-01T09:12:00.003-07:00

First of all, I have left my camera at my mom's and have no pictures to post. I know, boring!

This past few weeks have been hard for me. I have decided that I detest the month of January. It doesn't help that several of our friends from our neighborhood are currently on a cruise and this week it is bitter cold! Tomorrow the low is zero degrees!! I have just been in a funk of all sorts. I was sick with a cold for the last 2 weeks and haven't been consistently exercising so I am sure that has added to it. It is SO hard to get up at 5:45 am and run in the cold. Oh, I can hardly wait for spring and then my favorite..SUMMER!!

But back to January..

It seems my whole household is in a funk. Kids are fighting more than normal. The house seems to be a mess. Mom is grumpy. Dad is grumpy. Mom feels sad she is not on vacation right now. Dad is frustrated with mom for being sad. You get the picture, right? We had a "Family Meeting" last night. The kids love those! (not!) I even had a written out agenda. It looked something like this:
1. Housework- Assign areas to keep clean
2. Fighting- Cell phones/XBOX
3. Weekly Schedule- Dad leaving town
4. Plan Family Vacation

I admit, when I start getting overwhelmed and grumpy with the house, I still resort to immature tactics. They usually involve a little bit of cupboard door slamming, tossing things into people's rooms with a little more effort than usual and a few mumblings under my breath. Something was reaffirmed to me last night. My family responds much better when I just talk to them about the problem. Our family meeting was a success. Each of the kids agreed to be responsible for a certain area of the house on a daily basis. It seems there are 4 areas of my house that are constantly attracting clutter. They each willingly agreed to take a weekly turn on their area. We came up with serious consequences for the fighting that goes on between the two oldest boys. Cell phone taken away for Zach. XBOX taken away for Noah. (Get them where it hurts the most) and we ended on a positive note by discussing ideas for a family vacation.

Here were our ideas:

1. California for a week w/Disneyland included
2. Missouri for a week staying w/relatives and going to Nauvoo (this was actually Alan's idea)
3. Florida for a week going to Disney World/Beach
4. Jackson Hole Weekend and short Disney Land weekend (2 separate vacations)

We agreed that Missouri would be the cheapest and still a lot of fun but would allow us to maybe do another short vacation to Jackson Hole or somewhere within driving range. So far, that's in the forefront.

My purpose of this post is to remind myself that I sometimes need to treat my family like a small company and I am the President. (Don't tell Alan this!) It's so helpful to just sit down and talk through issues and get everyone back on the same page again. However, I have learned if I do this too often it's not as effective.

We all needed something to look forward to. I woke up today much more ready to brave the cold weather and am even okay with the fact that Alan is going on a "guy trip" this weekend. I guess if we didn't have "January's" in our lives we wouldn't appreciate the "July's" as much.

P.S. Sorry to any of you out there who have a January Birthday!
P.S.S. I also just realized it's Feb 1st today!!!

Obsessed with Pink....

2011-01-24T20:40:00.004-07:00

For the past several months, Abby has been insisting she wear pink to school. I have made it a rule that I get to choose her clothes for school and she can choose the other days of the week (other than Sunday, of course!) I am a bit of a control freak when it comes to dressing and doing her hair. She is my only girl you know!

For the past several months, she has also had quite an obsession with "The Chippettes". She wants to be Brittney~the lead singer, in every way. She wants her hair in a bun so she looks like Brittney. She wants to wear short skirts with tights every day so she can look like Brittney. She even wanted to be Brittney for Halloween, assuring me we could glue brown cottonballs all over her body. I haven't minded the obsession because along with it came a lot of singing and dancing around the house, which I love! She even came up with a club at school where they played "The Chippettes". I just thought it was cute.

I have played right into it, allowing her to wear pink as much as possible. There were days she literally looked like a bottle of Pepto Bismo~dressed from head to toe in pink. From bows, to furry vest to pink tights. Again, I just thought it was cute.

Well, today she again informed me as I was getting her dressed that she needed to wear pink. I had already picked out a purple outfit and wasn't going to budge. She finally confessed, "If I don't wear pink~then I DON"T GET TO BE BRITTNEY!!!" I was confused and asked her what she was talking about. She continued to tell me that whoever was wearing the MOST pink to school got to be Brittney when they played the Chippettes at recess. I about died as I realized that for months I have been feeding right into this by dressing her in pink~ to be cute, thinking how girly she was, etc. I can pretty much guarantee that MY DAUGHTER has been able to be Brittney on most school days. I quickly thought to myself "Oh those other girls are going to secretly hate her!" This ended up being a great little "life lesson" for her. The first of MANY to come I am sure. We talked in great lengths about being a good friend and giving everyone a chance to be Brittney. I told her nobody will want to be her friend if she always has to have things her way, etc. She seemed like she was getting it until at the end of our conversation she said "That's okay...I don't want to play "The Chippettes" today anyway...I want to play "Bolt" (from the movie)" I said, "Well, who gets to be Bolt?" She said, "Oh, I always get to be Bolt!!"

Oh man! Am I in trouble or what?

"Stick to the basics, mom!"

2010-12-19T20:22:00.003-07:00

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So, lately I have been trying really hard to broaden our dinner menu. I cannot stand to cook the same old meals week after week. I have been pouring over recipe books and browsing internet sites in hopes of finding some new "slam dunk" meals. I have decided I must be a pretty bad judge of recipes based on sight only. I must not have the ability to read a recipe and determine whether the ingredients will combine to make a delicious meal. Every new recipe I have tried lately has barely been edible. I consider myself a pretty good cook but I am starting to get a little insecure in the kitchen. I have been excited for days to make this delicious Sunday meal. Christmas Cranberry Pork Roast with a side of Swiss Potatoes and Carrots. Doesn't that sound delish? Basically a pork roast cooked in a crockpot with cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey and some seasonings. Potatoes and carrots cooked with swiss cheese and cream and some seasonings. Well, both dishes came out with much disappointment. Very bland. Not so good. Connor said, "Mom, I think from now on you just need to stick to the basics!" The rest of the kids quickly agreed. I need some new basics because quite frankly, I am sick of my basics. They have been my basics for almost 20 years now. Should it really be this much trial and error to come across some new recipes? From now on I am not trying a new recipe until I have it on good authority that someone has tried it and loved it. So start sending your "slam dunks" my way!

P.S. My new dishes are cute though, aren't they?

TOFW and Entering a New Decade...

2010-11-21T21:49:00.004-07:00

Wow! This past weekend was fabulous! Well, it actually started on Thursday. I went to a yummy lunch with friends and neighbors to celebrate my birthday. After lunch, I crammed in one last bike ride before the "big storm" and cold weather was upon us. I have to say, it was one of my best bike rides ever despite the fact my belly was full from a big lunch. It was that kind of "eery" weather where its unusually warm and very overcast with some pretty big wind gusts at times. I really pushed myself and just sailed along Wasatch Blvd feeling so happy. I kept thinking to myself, " I am going to be 40 tomorrow and I am riding my bike feeling like a young kid!" It was a very liberating experience.

Friday morning was spent getting ready to leave for our 2nd annual Time Out for Women (TOFW) retreat. It was extra special this year since it fell on my exact birthday. My mom, my sister Amy and my two sisters-in-law all met up for dinner before the Friday night session began. We then attended a wonderful and very spiritual evening. There were two great speakers and an amazing entertainer. After, we went to eat AGAIN! Nachos and dessert at Chili's. Yes, we love to eat! We checked into our hotel, had a sleep deprived night and got up early for another full day at TOFW. Again, the speakers were amazing and the music was so uplifting. I left feeling completely "filled up" spiritually, emotionally and yes even physically with all the eating out we did. I learned more about our dear prophet, President Monson. He is a very loving person who really cherishes his relationships with others and is a great example of "bearing one another's burdens". I learned to compliment my children more on their Christ-like qualities. I learned that Heavenly Father gives us children we have because He knows we are the best parents for them. People who are given difficult children are thought much of by our Heavenly Father because He knows we are capable of parenting them. I learned that it is great to have "high hopes". Life is good and we have every right to expect good things out of it.

Overall, I came out feeling like I want to be a better person in my 40's than I was in my 30's. I'm not saying I was a bad person before but I know that life is a refining process and over time we need to continue to get the kinks out and just strive to be better.

I came home Saturday to a clean house. That was amazing! We had made plans to go to dinner to celebrate my birthday with some close friends of ours and then Alan had organized a little "dessert open house" with mostly people from our ward. He really went to a lot of effort to get amazing desserts. It was a really fun night and it was so sweet of him to organize it. I am just feeling so grateful for so many things right now. A wonderful family with great parents and loving brothers and sisters. A super husband who continually tries to be better and puts up with a lot of my weaknesses. Children who love me and who are each so unique with amazing qualities. Wonderful friends and neighbors who really care and make time for one another.

Yes, life is good!

Oh, I love this birthday girl!

2010-11-06T15:56:00.003-06:00

Thursday and Friday were fun days spent celebrating Abby's 5th Birthday! She was SO excited for the big day to arrive. Wednesday night she started crying saying she just couldn't wait until her birthday. It was just taking too long to come! She is only slightly dramatic! I took her to McDonald's for lunch on her birthday with a few friends from preschool. Then I helped in her class, which was fun to watch her being "celebrated" by the teachers. That night we went to Training Table as a family. Friday she had her first real birthday party. She invited 5 friends from the neighborhood and school. We dressed them all up in cowgirl hats and pink bandanas and headed down to my dad's house to ride horses. The weather could not have been more perfect. It was a beautiful, warm fall day. My dad was great and gave each girl ride after ride. They LOVED it! I have decided I am not going to let myself be sad about her growing up. If I do, I will miss out on the moments. She is such an amazing little girl. Smart, outgoing, loving and did I mention dramatic? I think she takes the cake on that one! She loves to sing and dance and play with her Little Ponies. I can definitely say I am blessed to have this girl in my life.

Halloween Extravaganza...

2010-10-31T21:14:00.004-06:00

Well, this past week has been fun! I love Halloween. I love the fall weather. I love the decorations. I love going to the school parades to see all the cute costumes. I love trick-or-treating in my neighborhood and yes...I love picking through my kids' loot when they come home. I personally have my own "stash" in my night-stand drawer. The biggest stress for me this Halloween was coming up with costumes for Alan and myself. We were invited to a "Murder Mystery Dinner" and Alan was assigned to be a pirate and I was the character "Jean Golddust", the town gold dealer. I cannot believe I was once the lead in the school play. My "Ado Annie" days are definitely over as I have become much more reserved in my old age. It was amazing to see how many people really got into their parts. I was more about the good food and company than trying to solve the murder. I found our costumes from a lady in our neighborhood who has a "costume cellar" full of anything you can imagine. Once I found something to wear, the rest was quite fun. I summoned Amy and Taylor to come and do my hair and make-up. I don't think I have ever had my hair and make-up done so it was a lot of fun and of course, Abby was right there with me, loving every minute of it. A few days prior, I went dressed as a nerd to the Primary Halloween Party hosted by the Young Men and Young Women. Abby was very distraught over the fact that I looked so ugly. She did not like it at all. Deciding on a costume for Abby this year was fairly easy. She only changed her mind once and wanted to be "Brittany" from the Chipettes. She was sure I could just glue brown cottonballs all over her and she would look exactly like her. I quickly talked her back into her Minnie Mouse costume, which she looked adorable in. Connor, thought he looked really cool in his costume as a "burglar" and I have decided..that's all that matters. Personally, I wouldn't have really known what he was but...he was intent on dressing the way HE wanted to so..I put my control-freak tendencies aside. Halloween night was a little bit of a bomb with the rain and all but the kids still had fun. We ended up zipping around on our friends' golf-cart, visiting all the neighborhood attractions. The weekend came to an end with an unexpected delivery of homemade donuts from our friends just minutes ago and my 6am run can't come soon enough as I am feeling a little large right now.

I love General Conference

2010-10-04T13:38:00.003-06:00

I look forward to Conference weekend every Spring and every Fall. For so many reasons. Since we have been on the 9a.m. church schedule this year, I have especially enjoyed being able to sleep in and just lounge around all weekend. Saturday worked out perfect because Connor had a football game from 1-2pm. Other than that, we were home the whole day and I was able to watch all of Saturday session and do a TON of ironing. I always look forward to my Saturday night tradition. Get the boys out the door for priesthood session and then I get together with some close friends for pizza at my house. We have been doing this for years. It started out in my little house on Stratford Drive when we all only had a few kids. We currently have 20 kids between the 5 moms. Only 3 of those kids go to priesthood session so yes, that means 17 kids are at my house and it's awesome! I love these gals so much! We have shared so much over the years and I hope it's a tradition we can keep for a long time. I am so proud to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints! I am always touched when I hear of the new temples being built and how much impact the missionaries are having throughout the world. I love hearing the children sing primary songs in different languages. It's easy to live in my little "bubble" in Salt Lake City and take for granted all that the church offers me here. We are so lucky! I felt like some of my Sunday was spent wondering if my kids were even listening. I spent so much time saying "shh!!" and "quit arguing"..but later at dinner I asked the kids what they learned from conference and Connor piped right up and said "I learned that rules are here to protect us." I looked at Alan and he looked back at me in amazement. Connor continued..."like when that man told the story of the cow that was fenced in but he kept trying to get his head through fence to eat the wheat...and then he ate too much wheat and his stomach blew up..the fence was really just there to help the cow." Well...I guess my efforts to keep him in front of the TV paid off. I loved the talks directed to raising our youth. One stood out to me especially when he said "sometimes we just don't have a good feeling about letting our kids do things and we just need to tell them we love them too much to ignore the feeling." He also quoted someone saying "Parenting is not a popularity contest". Such good reminders to us raising teenagers! It's easy at conference time to listen to the talks and start to come down on ourselves for not doing the things we have been counseled to do. I don't want to fall into that trap. I am simply going to take it as an encouragement to do better...and that I plan to do!

School's in Session...

2010-08-23T21:56:00.003-06:00

I know I say this every year but I can't believe how fast the summer goes. The kids started school today. I was quite proud of myself..only a few tears shed as I drove Zach to his first day of High School. I didn't even get choked up as I waited outside Connor's school and watched him line up with his new class. I am usually a mess. I don't know what happened today. Maybe I am more ready for them to go back than I thought. I started the morning off early..a 6am power walk with a few girls from the neighborhood. It was DARK outside. UGH! The ONLY thing I hate about the season changing. Getting up in the dark to exercise is grueling. Each of the kids were happy about their first day. That was a relief! They all had friends in their classes and aside from the $186 worth of checks I had to write out for "school fees", it was a good day for all.

I'm Back

2010-07-22T08:21:00.002-06:00

Well, thanks to my niece Mariah, I now have a new look to my blog. I have been encouraged by my family to start blogging again. With Tara and her family moving out of the country, it will be a good way for us to communicate. Last night I had 6 stinky 7 year olds over to celebrate Connor's Birthday. It was so fun to watch them run around playing "Ghost in the Graveyard", lighting marshmallows on fire, throwing pop rocks in the firepit and watching them all fart with their armpits. Talk about an easy party.
This morning I went for a great bike ride w/my friend. I am so lucky to live in a place where I can be so close to the mountains within about 15 minutes on my bike. It's easy for me to take for granted how beautiful Utah is. I look out my kitchen window all day every day and rarely notice the amazing mountain view I have. I guess this is true with life. We get so busy in our own lives that rarely do we take time to notice the beautiful blessings right in front of us. I guess this is my thought for today...take time to notice the view...whatever that may be.

I give up!!!!

2009-01-16T16:33:00.003-07:00

Okay, I am not going to change my template again!! The last few times I have tried..this is what happens. The sides are one template and the middle is another. I could NOT figure it out and had to get some technical support from a blog designer. She fixed it but I am not sure what she did. I was nervous to change it but did anyway and this is what happened! HELP! Maybe I should just quite blogging altogether!

How on Earth can I do Both?

2009-01-08T14:55:00.004-07:00

So, I know everyone is going through withdrawals to read my blog again. What is my problem? Well my problem is this blasted thing called facebook! I have finally started using it after setting up an account almost a year ago. And you know what? I like it! This is a problem because I have become a time-waster as of late and it's mainly due to the computer. If I calculated the hours a week I spend at the computer..facebooking, blogging, searching recipes, emails, primary stuff, etc...I am sure I would have my entire house cleaned with a Q-tip. Well, okay that is a slight exaggeration. I guess I know that answer to my question. It is found in the scriptures under Balance, Temperance, Moderation and oh yes...Self Mastery! Maybe this should be a New Year's resolution. I'll think about it after I blog and facebook!

What's up with this???

2008-11-24T07:56:00.002-07:00

All I can say is it's a good thing I went to check on her before I hit the hay the other night!

Where Does the Time Go?

2008-11-04T21:52:00.014-07:00

My attempt at a "pink" cake

She truly is our Princess!

I know I sound like an old person. But seriously, can you believe how time flies? Abby turned 3 today and I found myself being a little sad all day. Suddenly she has grown into a fire-ball of a girl. Her personality has truly emerged and like my other kids, she doesn't have a laid back bone in her body. I have truly enjoyed her and find great satisfaction in knowing that she prefers her "mama" to anyone else. (Okay, sometimes it's annoying but for the most part I love when she calls me "mama"!) She has learned words like "gorgeous" and "dorable" and "yer da best, mom".

She gets excited even a new pair of socks not to mention an entire outfit. She crawls around on her hands and knees pretending she is the kitty and I am the "mama cat". She climbs on my lap and meows and will only come when I call (in a nice voice) "Here kitty kitty...". She recognizes if I have a "mean" look on my face and often tells me. (I guess I look mean and I don't realize it..anyway it's a good way for me to work on my countenance.) She clunks around in dress-up shoes and spends hours in her room playing My Little Ponies. Her only down-side? She doesn't want anything to do with the toilet and she cries like crazy when I do her hair.

The Hunt, The Shoot, The Kill...

2008-10-19T21:39:00.000-06:00

Come on Al..look a little more excited! Seriously, you just shot yerself a Buck!
There we go..that's more like it! This time it's a Bull. (notice I've got the correct terminology)
Notice the head he's packing around..
and yes, I believe that's a leg!

So, while I have been home cleaning the house, doing yardwork, making trips to Costco and grocery store, taking the boys clothes shopping (complete torture), balancing the checkbook, shopping at D.I. for halloween apparel, PTA meetings, doctor appts, and did I mention cleaning the house? My darling husband has been out doing THIS!!! and you know what? I couldn't be happier. He is so good to let me do what ever I want without complaint. He is never resentful of me having "my time". He works hard going to work every day from 6am to 6pm (pretty much) and although I can't figure out why on earth this would be appealing to anyone..I mean spending nearly a full day cutting up the animal that you just inhumanely shot and killed, into small enough parts that you can pack it off the mountain-with several trips I might add. But thank goodness it is appealing to him because he comes home happier and healthier and with a little more enthusiasm in his step! I love you Big Al and welcome home!

Never a dull moment...

2008-10-14T20:17:00.000-06:00

Connor should start charging admission at our house!

New "Do"...

2008-10-06T21:00:00.001-06:00

So Connor goes with Big Al tonight to get a haircut. He gets his done and asks the lady to spike it into a "mohawk" and the lady instead convinces him to let her just spike it "all over". He is thinking he is "IT" when he gets home. We are sitting down to dinner and out of the blue he says..."so Noah, I know you are totally jealous of my haircut!" We all bust up laughing and later I think to myself..."is this a small indication of what's to come? and if so, I am in trouble!" Don't you ever wonder how life could be the least bit entertaining without children?

p.s. if you haven't heard this song on my blog..take time to listen! it is the best song out there for moms!!!!!

2008-09-23T14:09:00.000-06:00

I think most of us put off the things that we hate most to do. Well at least I do. This morning I finally made a trip to the dentist. As I sat in the chair, I told the receptionist "Well, I think it's been awhile! About a year I think." she replied, "Actually it's been two." Wow! Does time really go that fast? or do I just really hate going to the dentist? I suppose a little of both. Well as of today..it's one less thing on my "to-do" list. Yesterday, I was going through my planner, where I write a "to-do" list each day and noticed that each day last week, I (for the most part)accomplished the day's task. With the exception of one. Cleaning the "yellow" bathroom. (Yes, since we live in an older home, we have a "blue" bathroom and a "yellow" bathroom. And not a "cute" color of either. In fact, I often hear Connor after he has pooped and needs a wipe hollering "Mom! I'm in the 'blue' bathroom or the 'yellow' one!" )

Anyway, back to my point...The task of cleaning the "yellow" bathroom made its way to the next day and then the next..and so on and so on....Well, at the start of this week, that bathroom had made it's way to Monday's list of tasks as well. Come on Kristen just bear down and get it done! Well, I DID IT! It was such a good feeling to get it done. So now I am thinking it would be wise for me to take the thing I hate doing the most and do it first! This is my new goal for the week.

I made this decision today, after I took a huge pack of hamburger out of the fridge that had been sitting there for days needing to be separated and put in freezer bags. I hate doing this by the way and therefore, this too had been shoved to next day's list...Well, I DID IT TODAY!

Here are a few things that I hate to do but am going to try harder to let them only stay on my "to-do" list for only one day.

1. Cleaning my bathrooms

2. Visiting Teaching (okay so I don't hate it)

3. Cleaning out my fridge.

4. Ironing.

5. Getting my oil changed.

6. Washing the bedding.

7. Buying new underwear.

Does anyone know a good plastic surgeon?

2008-09-16T08:06:00.001-06:00

The night of...
The morning after

Her first major boo boo yesterday! Zach took her for a ride in the bike trailor, hit the curb, didn't have her buckled in and she skidded across the sidewalk on her face. My poor baby!!

Don't You Love it When...

2008-09-12T10:17:00.000-06:00

Don't you love it when your kids actually put their gender differences aside and play together? I have really enjoyed having Connor and Abby all to myself again in the mornings. But I didn't realize how much until I walked in on this..this morning. I can pretty much guarantee that Connor wouldn't resort to dressing up in "girl stuff" but at least Abby doesn't have a problem crossing over the other side once in a while. GO ABBY!!!

One Last Hoorah!!

2008-08-31T14:57:00.001-06:00

Includes Fishing, Lizards and Horny Toads...

We spent the last weekend of our summer in Flaming Gorge visiting family. It is the perfect place for "boys" and since my mom decided to take Abby for the weekend, we thought we would take advantage of it by heading out of town. The boys had a great time going to the dinosaur museum, fishing down the Green River and catching lizards at the lake. It's amazing how each year, as school ends, I am so anxious for summer. For the chance to be lazy, unproductive and spend endless days at the pool. Then just like clockwork, about two weeks before the new school year is about to start, I am counting down the days to be back on a routine of getting up early, getting projects done and having peaceful, quiet days again. I am so glad for change of seasons as it always helps me "gear up" with excitement for what's to come. So, here's to a great summer past and an upcoming fall!!!

2008-08-19T10:35:00.000-06:00

Our Summer in a Nutshell

or should I say "butt shell"...

Yes, we pretty much spent most of our summer at the pool.

2008-08-11T22:02:00.000-06:00

Why on earth do I spend money on expensive toys?

The Case of the Missing Scout Shirt...

2008-07-28T08:47:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, we were trying to get Zach packed up and ready for a week long adventure of Scout Camp. Alan had gone to the scout store on Saturday and bought all the badges that he needed to iron on his shirt. (No, I don't know how to sew and yes, we do have to resort to the iron-on badges!) Zach had tried on his scout shirt for us that day and had laid it over the bannister of the stairs. Well, Sunday evening Alan started getting the badges out and asked Zach to go get his shirt. He came back shortly and said he couldn't find it. I suggested a few spots to look and after doing so, he still couldn't find it. Alan now joined in the search. As the minutes wore on, there became much frustration on the part of Zach and Alan. Realizing that it was time for "the mom who always seems to find everything" to step in, I also joined the search. The frustration was mounting by the second as we realized that he had to leave for camp in the morning and had to have his shirt. We gathered all the kids and decided to search every room in the house. After doing that, still no shirt. Zach came in to me and said "Mom, I think we should have a prayer." I thought to myself "now why didn't I think of that?" We quickly gathered in the living room and said a prayer. I again thought to myself "please make sure we find the shirt so my kids' faith isn't shattered!" We finished the prayer and again continued our search. It wasn't 10 seconds before I heard Alan say "I found it!" He had walked into our bedroom where we had searched several times before and decided to look down between the mattress and the bed frame and THERE WAS THE SCOUT SHIRT! I guarantee you my kids will remember this small example of faith and prayer for years to come! Just thought I would share.

"40" is the new "30"?

2008-07-22T10:07:00.000-06:00

I remember my mom telling me that even though she is 60+ she still feels like she is in her 30's until she looks in the mirror. (Although she looks great for her sixties!) I also remember when I was a teenager thinking 40 was SO middle-aged! I looked at my mom when she was in her 40's thinking (although she was pretty) she looked so "like a mother". It's amazing and scarey how time passes by and yet we don't feel any different. Will we still feel young and the same even when we are in our 70's and 80's? If so, how frustrating will it be to see our bodies much older than our spirits? I am contemplating these things lately as my own sister turned 4o just a few days ago. Being only two years younger, it makes me realize how quickly that day is approaching for me. As my 20 year high school reunion is being celebrated this summer, it brings me back to my high school days and I honestly don't feel much older. I recall being at my 10 year reunion thinking "oh wow! what will all be like at our 20th? That will be the biggy!" Well, here it is and I still don't feel any different. Yes, I have matured (hopefully) and I have aged a little. I have become a bit more "saggy" in areas and have noticed several gray hairs (thank goodness for coloring) but I still feel young. Have we become more "hip" so to speak? Do we dress more youthful than our parents did at our age? Are our haircuts the same as most of the teenagers so therefore doesn't separate the "young" from the "mature"? Are our anti-aging products better? Or maybe I am looking through "rose-colored glasses" and don't look as young as I think I do. All I know is I look at my sister who is now a "middle-aged" mother of five with a son in college and I think she looks pretty darn good!

Happy BELATED Birthday Connor!

2008-07-16T08:57:00.000-06:00

This is what happens when my sister comes in town for a week..everything gets put on hold..including blogging! So better late than never Connor!!!

Connor was especially lucky this year to celebrate his 5th birthday with not only some of his favorite friends but with his cousins from out of town. We had his party at the swim club and there was hardly a soul there so we basically had the whole pool to ourselves!! Connor is a pretty exciteable kid so you can imagine how excited he was for his party. Although I have to admit, there were several times earlier in the week where I wasn't sure he was GETTING a party due to some behavior issues. Connor sure keeps us on our toes. I have never known anyone who can make me SO frustrated one second and make my heart melt the next! I don't know of too many people who meet Connor and don't immediately love him, including many of our close neighbors. Here are just a few reasons why I love Connor so much...

1. You often come up out of the blue and say "Yer da best mom!"

2. Give you any object and you can figure out a way to turn it into a battle scene.

3. The only things you WON'T eat are pickles and peppers.

4. You finally don't gag over your poops anymore.

5. You have the world's biggest smile with the cutest dimple.

6. You'll get right back on your bike after a wipeout that leaves you bloodied & bruised.

7. You're not embarrassed to be who you are..anywhere you are...even if it's dressed as a mid-evil knight at Crown Burger or Spiderman at the grocery store.

8. You show no signs of prejudice when you say you wish you were black "cuz black guys are the coolest!"

9. You sit and play Noah's Nintendo DS for hours even though you have no idea what you are playing because you so want to be like your big brother.

10. You just woke up and walked in the room with your hair standing on end, morning breath and a contagious smile on your face that starts my day off right! I love you Connor!

I Never Thought....

2008-07-02T19:00:00.001-06:00

I'd let my child go out in public dressed like this...

or wear shoes like these...
or have a 13 year old who is at least a head taller than me...

or that I'd resort to wearing these when trying to hide my "muffin top". (Hey desperate times call for desperate measures, right?)
or that I would live so far away from my sisters (boo hoo!)...
or would have bows, my little ponies and dress-up shoes in my house...(okay she looks like a tomboy in this pictures which she is not but I love this picture of her anyway!)
and finally...I never thought I would be the PROUD owner of a mini-van!
Moral of this blog post: motherhood changes everything!

A few random pictures of our summer so far...

2008-06-18T08:12:00.000-06:00

In spite of the fact that she is a true "girly girly"
she still knows how to play a mean game of army guys!

My effort to become an equestrian rider which literally made my dad's day since his horses are his "grandchildren". (not really but he SURE loves them!)

Abby just earned some serious bonus points and is now probably his new favorite grandchild considering she didn't want to get off the horse the entire day.
and Big Al...well let's just say he didn't earn any bonus points with anyone!

And finally...my vain daughter who runs to this same spot everytime I get the camera out just waiting to have her picture taken.

Cutest conversation so far this summer:

I was laying in my bed one afternoon with a headache. Abby started hollering my name.

"mom...where are you?" No reply from me.

"moooooommmmm!!!"

Finally, after realizing I couldn't hide under the covers any more I quietly replied "what Abby?"

she the said:

"What ya doin' mom? ya readin' yer blog?"

I guess it goes to show that ...

#1 I am on my blog way too much and

#2 considering I didn't even know she knew what a blog was..my two year is really watching and listening to what I say and do. SCAREY!!!

"Alan" of all trades...

2008-06-02T14:16:00.000-06:00

Little did I know when I married Alan, the surprises I would be in for. For instance, I didn't quite know what a "redneck" he was and that his idea of evening entertainment is watching "Mossback Mulies Gone Wild!" (that would be mule-deer) Nor did I know that he could fall asleep in 10 seconds flat and break out into an inhumane sounding snore soon after. (for some reason when we were dating and up late at night he never fell asleep..hmmm..I wonder why?) But mostly I did not know of his amazing talent of craftsmanship! (and to think..I only thought he could make cute babies!) Okay enough of the side comments. Alan has been working on this armoir above for several years. He worked on it here and there and told me a little about it but I didn't give it much thought thinking I wouldn't ever see the finished product (not in this lifetime anyway). Well, several months ago he signed up for a woodworking class and began going two nights a week for twelve weeks. (That's 24 nights of me getting throught the dinner hour, homework hour and putting the kids to bed by myself !) I have to say that it was definitely worth it. He brought this home to me on Saturday and I immediately fell in love. (with the armoir that is! although I do love Alan a lot too!) I am so amazed at his ability to visualize something and then to actually be able to create it and with near perfection. He is truly one talented guy and I am lucky to have him..plus I get a lot of nice furniture out of him too! I have to remember that on the days he's being one of those "typical husbands".

How soon is TOO soon?

2008-05-24T14:35:00.000-06:00

Many of you have had this discussion with me before. I have had a pretty strong opinion on this matter for awhile but after listening to this interview on a TV show the other day it really solidified my opinion. (Please take time to watch/read this artice-it is very eye opening.) This is a reoccuring question that comes up in my household. "When can I get a cell phone? So and so has a cell phone!" So here is my opinion (I know this may stir some controversy and for those of you whose kids already have phones remember this is only MY opinion and everyone is different. ) Kids are so indulged these days. I look at the things my kids already have done at their young ages compared to things I was able to do and it is amazing. Society automatically indulges our kids from birth just by living in the world we live in whether we as parents choose to or not. It seems like by the time kids are adolescents most of them have already had so many luxuries that by the time they are teenagers they are only looking for more and more because they have already done it all. This seems to be getting them into trouble. They need something else or something more exciting to entertain them. I easily find myself falling into this trap as a parent. It is so easy to want to indulge our kids. It's so fun to see the excitement they get from something new. I also fall into the trap of "well all the other kids have them or are doing it and I don't want my child to be left out!" I hear this a lot about the cell phone debate. So my question is "How soon should a child get a cell phone?" Notice I say child. Would we ever install a private phone line in our child's bedroom? I wouldn't. Do we really want our kids talking to their friends on the phone all the time? I don't. I know growing up I was not allowed to be on the phone 24/7- not even close to that. Do we want to be able to hear the conversations going on between friends? I do. Do we want our kids to forget how to actually have real conversations face-to-face? Do we want them to only know how to text instead of talk? How on earth are they ever going to learn the value of communication, especially in a marriage? What about the things they are texting to each other? I have heard friends of mine say they have read some of their kids' texts and they are casually saying things like "love ya" "you're so hot" or "hey sexy". Would they actually say those things to someone face-to-face? Probably not. (Hopefully not!) My feelings about this issue really hit home when we were practicing for a Primary performance and two 11 year olds were in the chapel texting people on their phones they had both just gotten for Christmas. To them it was nothing more than a toy. How does an 11yr old have the responsibility level needed to own their own phone? Many parents use the reasoning of "well, I like to know where they are and how to get a hold of them." My thought is our kids should be where they say they are going to be and that is a valuable trust issue that needs to be learned at their age without the crutch of a cell phone. As far as getting a hold of them, how did our parents reach us when we were young? Most likely, they knew where we were and called us at the place we were at. Again, a trust issue. Okay, so I know I am coming across strong here but these are thoughts going through my head and I am interested in some different opinions. I have always said to my kids "When the time comes that we (not you) feel you need a cell phone then that's when it will happen." For example when they are driving and/or involved in a lot of worthwhile activities. I like the idea of it being my phone and not their phone. One that they turn in at night so it's not just an open line for all of their friends at any given time of the day. I thought this interview gave a lot of really good points and really reitterated the thoughts that I have had. I know that it is only going to get harder and harder as times go on to not give in to these pressures. It is scarey for me to see how much younger and younger kids are becoming in having more and more!

Happy Birthday Noah! (It was Monday I know)

2008-05-21T13:28:00.001-06:00

Wow! This officially means I have been blogging for a year since this is my 2nd B-day post to Noah. Time really does fly! The older I get the faster it goes. Noah I have been thinking lately about you and what a nice boy you have turned out to be. You are so affectionate and so tender hearted. You are so smart and so funny. You have such a natural wit that can entertain anyone around you. You bring a lot of laughs into our family. You love music and really have an ear for "the good stuff". I love to hear you sing. You have a knack for leaving your dirty socks all around the house and are often distracted while trying to accomplish the simplest of tasks. Sometimes I don't get you and can often be heard saying "Now, why would you do that?" (usually it's in a loud, frustrated voice) but your differences add a certain "spice" to our family and it wouldn't be the same without you. I love you so much and probably don't tell you as often as I should so hear it is for the whole blogging world to see: I LOVE YOU NOAH!

Happy Birthday Brooke (Tomorrow)

2008-05-15T21:29:00.000-06:00

This is a tribute to one beautiful, sexy, cut, fit and super duper strong girl and no it's not the gal on the right (hard to tell I know) This is a tribute to you, Brooke! I am so grateful to know you. There are so many things I love about you. I know I can talk to you about anything without feeling the least bit judged. You are a great listener. I appreciate that you are easy going especially since I am not. I love that you never seem put out to watch my kids and often offer before I even need to ask. You are so determined. You quietly set your mind to something and then proceed to accomplish it with amazing results without a lot of fanfare. You laugh at everything I say which makes me feel really good inside! You love my kids (or at least pretend to.) You have an amazing memory which is especially impressive to me since I have none. Most of all, I know that you are a constant in my life. Someone I know I can always call, always rely on if needed and always lift me up. I admire you in so many ways and know that our friendship will be lifelong. Hope your day is a special one!

Blog Funk

2008-05-10T20:37:00.000-06:00

I am in a blog funk right now. I can't believe it has been over a month since I have posted. What have I been doing? Let me see...here's what I have been up to as well as some of the highlights..
1. I was IN CHARGE of Teacher Appreciation Week at Noah's school. It took a lot of planning and last week was "the week". I was quite busy feeding the teachers, decorating, buying stuff for them, wrapping and tagging 35 Geraniums, and did I mention feeding them some more? Phew! Glad that week is over!
2. Dog has not peed or pooped in house for over a week! Maybe she's cured! I can't believe I am letting a stinky dog in my bed.
3. Went to the park a few times with Abbers.
4. Planted my windowbox which looks mighty cute if I do say so!
5. Planted more Hostas and groundcover under my tree.
6. T-Ball. I realized that the past 2 Saturdays I have not even paid attention to Connor's game. Never saw him bat and never knew what the score was when it was finished or WHO EVEN WON! I guess that's what happens when most of your closest friends are there "watching" their kids play as well. (Hey that's what the dads are for, right?)
7. Went to lunch with my mom and Cheryl for her Birthday. Citrus Grill was YUMMY! Oh and I spent about $200 at "Real Deals" my new favorite place. Still waiting to hang up my new pictures for my living room. But the new lamps in my bedroom look AWESOME! (early Mother's Day present to myself)
8. Went to Wal-mart a few times and Costco even a few times more.
9. Watched today as they excavated part of our backyard. They dug a whole for the trampoline and basically put HUGE piles of dirt all over the yard for the dog (and kids) to romp in and track into my already dirty house. (Yes, friends..my house is officially a "pit" due to some serious neglect because of my PTA duties. Dang what excuse can I use now that PTA stuff is over?)
10. Signed Connor up for swimming lessons. Bought new pool toys in preparation for my most glorious days ahead of LIVING AT THE POOL! (Ugh that means I actually will be in a bathing suit in the the next few weeks. Scarey thought.)
11. Didn't get to the gym more than once last week. (record low) Therefore am feeling fat and depressed about bathing suits.
12. Oh did I mention that I had an eye appt, a neurology appt and my yearly exam at the gyno's all withing a week of each other? I guess the 3 most important parts of my body are all taken care of for the year.
13. Had an IUD put in at the gyno's. Yes it hurt like #@**! I supposedly have a "tipped uterus" and it was a little more difficult to insert. I am supposed to "check it" periodically to make sure it is still in the right spot. Ya right! I can't even stand to give myself a breast exam let alone "that kind of exam".
14. Have FAITHFULLY been watching American Idol and am so glad that darn Jason Castro is officially gone.
15. and Finally, I have caught the dreaded "change of season" cold that I get every year. I think I would like to have my nose cut off at this point because it is not only so sore from blowing it but I have wiped out my supply of toilet paper in one day. Yes Brooke, it's as bad as the Josh Groban Concert night.

and that's my month in a "nutshell"!

This One's For You Heather!

2008-05-05T09:57:00.000-06:00

Have you worn your blacks lately?

"Mommy...mommy!"

2008-04-09T08:06:00.000-06:00

Recently my beloved daughter has been going through some sort of identity crisis or something. It's like she is trying to remind herself that she is my daughter and that I am her mother with her incessant use of the word "Mommy". For example, "Mommy can I have a fruit snack mommy?" or "Mommy where we going mommy?" or just the plain ole' "mommy, mommy, mommy!" I have to admit at first it was cute. Then it became just down right annoying. That is until I read this blog. This is written by a girl I went to high school with. It changed my perspective immediately. There may be a day when I will be craving to hear the word "mommy" just one last time. It may be after she is a teenager and doesn't want anything to do with me much less call me "mommy". It may be after she is grown up herself and perhaps we have a disagreement that a hug and a kiss won't make all better. Or worse, it may be after she has been taken from this earth before she is ready. Listening to General Conference this past weekend especially confirmed the advice we have been given as mothers to enjoy the moments because they are fleeting. It's hard to keep this in perspective when I am in the middle of a kicking, screaming, toy chucking tantrum like I have witnessed many times these past few weeks by my 4 year old. I am trying especially hard this week to be more patient and to realize that there will be a day (that will come sooner than I anticipate) when I will be craving to hear the word "mommy" again.

I read like I eat!

2008-04-08T18:06:00.000-06:00

This picture says it all! Although I don't typically shove a WHOLE pack of oreos in my mouth at once, I definitely can binge. I am always in wonder at those I see who can eat one popcorn kernal at a time unlike me who shoves an entire handful into my mouth at once. It just tastes better that way! Or my husband for instance who can spend a day nibbling on a pack of M&M's while driving around in his truck. Me on the otherhand, will down the whole pack withing the first minute of opening it. It just tastes better that way! Maybe it's because I am impatient, I don't know. This past month I have been reading like I eat. Just binging on books. Gobbling them up in one bite. They become this nagging in the back of my mind like when I know there is a half gallon of my favorite icecream in the freezer. I just have to succomb to my craving to the book I am reading and then it's literally all I do! I sometimes wish I could just savor a good book reading it a few chapters at a time dragging out my pleasure as long as I can. But, no. My lack of self control once again reigns supreme! I guess there could be worse things to be devouring, right?

Happy Birthday Zach!

2008-03-27T16:03:00.001-06:00

This is a little overdue since your birthday was Monday but with the excitement of the dog and all I guess I can get away with it. WOW! I have a teenager. That is a landmark! I know being born first has not always has its advantages and the fact that you are very responsible makes it even harder for you because you get more of the burden placed on you than the other kids. I can always count on you to do something the first time you are asked. You have the ability to do things very well (especially when you are being bribed!) You are such a deep thinker and ask questions that are beyond your years. You love nature and will often comment on the beautiful sunset or how pretty the mountains are as we are out driving. You have a very tender heart, especially for animals. Is it any surprise that your favorite show was Bambi when you were little? You a very smart and have always been serious about school work. I am so proud of you for getting a 3.9 this term! Especially considering you are in all the gifted classes (and you're not a nerd!) Zach, I love you and am excited for the great potential that you have in life. You are a wonderful boy (okay young man) and I am proud to be your mom!

What better thing to do on Spring Break than to BUY A DOG!

2008-03-24T21:10:00.001-06:00

Sometimes when you are not really looking hard for something is the very time you find it. So I decided to skim the classifieds last night at about 9pm just to pass time and stumbled across this adorable dog. She fit all my criteria. She is small (20lbs) She is cute. She doesn't shed. She isn't hyper. She is house trained and she was under $200. The only problem was..she was in Smithfield which is by Logan. Well, I called on her anyway and after a conversation with the owner, I decided she just might be the dog for us. So I packed all the kids in the car and headed for a long drive to Smithfield. We got out of the car and the kids said, "We don't care how ugly she is..after driving this far we are taking her home." Well, we were relieved to find out that she is ADORABLE! Yes, we are in love with our new dog. Okay, so we have only had her for about 9 hours now but so far she couldn't be more perfect. She is SO great with the kids and is so mellow! After deliberating over and over about a name (and we had plenty on our list to choose from) we decided to call her Lacey. Her original name was Penny but we opted for a different one. Check back with me in about a week but for now..I am a pretty proud and contented dog owner!

Spring Break Tomorrow? YIKES!

2008-03-19T08:56:00.000-06:00

I can't believe Spring Break is tomorrow and ugh..we have no plans! My kids are going to expect something grandiose because afterall, it's THEIR vacation. (unfortunately it's not a vacation for me..just more work!) My first thought is.."cool, built in babysitters!" but I realize that it's not quite fair to do that to them. So, unless I have some fun things planned it will quickly turn into a next few days of severe quarrelling! I am envious of any of you who have travel plans this weekend. Anyone up to doing anything? Here's my ideas so far: Go see "Horton Hears a Who", hang out and make bows with my sister-in-law Amy (that is if she calls me!) or anyone else for that matter who wants to adorn their girls w/obnoxious boys like I do, ( okay I really meant to say BOWS but I thought I would leave it purely for a good laugh at the typo) and I am really hoping to take Zach skiing on Monday for his B-day (that is if I can find sitters!) Nothing is concrete so if anyone can think of alternative ideas to keep us all from going crazy for the next few days..let me know. I'm up for it!

Happy Birthday Alan!

2008-03-14T09:00:00.001-06:00

I meant to do this yesterday since it was your actual birthday but the day got away from me. I just wanted to let you know how much I love you on your 42nd birthday! I often think how lucky I am to have a husband who displays the following characteristics: (don't worry I am not going to do 42 of them! Just a few of the most cherishable ones!)

1. First and foremost you are always willing to help me. You never mind going out of your way or being inconvenienced. (even if it means going to the drugstore in Maui at 3am to buy me an enema after a severe case of "vacation constipation".)

2. You never complain about what I have not accomplished during the day (unless you don't have any clean underwear or jeans to wear)

3. You never get sick of hearing about all the cute or funny things the kids say. Even if I call you 10 times a day to tell you.

4. You are always supportive of things I want to do. (basically, you rarely tell me no.)

5. You are never possesive. Sometimes to a fault. (I know so why do I love that about you yet dislike it also? Because I am a woman and we are complicated)

6. I love the way you walk in the door each day and say "Hello Babar!"

You are a wonderful man. (I never thought I would be married to a 42 year old man! wow!) I appreciate all of your hard work and sacrifice by the long hours you put in each day with rarely a complaint. Thank you for being such a great dad to our children and such a sweet husband to me! I love you!

Charity Never Faileth...

2008-03-02T20:01:00.001-07:00

For those of us who belong to the Relief Society Organization, we are all too familiar with these words but do we really live by them? Fortunately there are those around us who do and last night I was a recipient of such a person. In reading my last blog post, you learned of my Sunday frustrations. I received a lot of encouraging comments with great ideas of how to make my upcoming Sunday a more peaceful one. I started mentally preparing myself Saturday afternoon by thinking of what needed to be done, etc. I even got the kids clothes ironed. Alan and I left early evening to go out to dinner and upon returning home I found the most pleasant surprise. After reading my blog, and realizing my struggle with Sundays, a most wonderful friend had brought over a dinner that was all ready to throw in the oven with a note attached saying "Happy Sunday!" WOW! How on earth does someone take time out of their evening as they are trying to get their own family ready for Sunday and think of making my day a little smoother? What a great example to me! How many times have I thought to myself "I should really take her kids for her" or "I really need take dinner to them" but quickly think of all the reasons that I am too busy or that maybe I will do it next time. How many times do I find myself saying these all too famous words "Let me know if there is anything I can do?" Like anyone is ever really going to call you and say "hey listen there is something you can do..." (well maybe some people would but I certainly wouldn't!) It's easy for me to run a loaf of banana bread over to my neighbor or sign up to take dinner to a friend after they have had a baby but it's the times that I may be prompted to help someone when it's a little inconvenient that I often ignore. My eyes were definitely opened this weekend by such a simple act of service rendered yet the profound impact it had on making me want to try a little harder to serve a little more.

"Saturday is a special day...It's the day we get ready for Sunday"

2008-02-25T13:49:00.000-07:00

I am finding out lately that there is some profound wisdom in that primary song we all learned growing up. Why does Sunday end up being one of the most hectic days of the week for me? I guess it's because I am not prepared. Yesterday was a bad Sunday for me. I literally did not sit down the entire day except for the few minutes in Sacrament that I wasn't taking Abby out to put her on a chair in a classroom. (By the way that is working out well-now if I could just teach her to whisper! I kept telling her.."whisper Abby!" and after about 10 min of me doing it..she said "what's whisper mom?") Anyway, It seems no matter how picked up my house is Saturday night, by the time we leave for church it looks like a bomb went off. Then we walk back into it..this time with crying children who are hungry and tired. The older kids are raiding the pantry before I can even get my pantyhose off. So I start in on them telling them to hold their horses until I can get something out that's semi nutritional. And from that point on..the chaos begins. I end up being in the kitchen most of the day making a meal that by the time I sit down to doesn't even taste good to me. Then afterwards, of course, I have to start thinking about dessert. So, once the dishes are done..I start in on something yummy to make.(Usually brownies and icecream..the old standby) Then everyone is off doing their own thing..napping, watching movies, pulling out every toy we own and I get in a bad mood because I am NOT able to relax until the house is picked up and nobody else seems to care. We sometimes manage to do something productive like get in a game of Settlers but soon everyone is hungry and out comes the food again which means more kitchen mess for me to clean up.

So, is this keeping the Sabbath day holy? NO! Some people have told me not to fix a big meal on Sunday..keeping things simple. I have a hard time doing that. Growing up we always had a nice Sunday meal..china out-goblets and all. Tara and Amy, do you guys remember how we would rub our fingers along the rim of the goblets until they made that whistling sound that drove mom really crazy.

So am I alone in this frustration? or do the rest of you sit around in your church clothes all day reading scriptures, singing at the piano, reading stories, and planning your next family service project? (Tara, you are not allowed to comment because I have a feeling your family does!)

Point Proven

2008-02-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

In case any of you thought I was being dramatic about Abby's demanding personality let me give you a quick example of what happened last night. We were walking out of the store last night and she saw the moon. She started saying "Get the moon down mommy!" I tried to explain to her I couldn't. She then started SCREAMING "GET THE MOON DOWN MOOMY...I WANNA HOLD IT!!!" She screamed this over and over all the way home. I rest my case.

Happy Birthday Amy!

2008-02-16T10:25:00.001-07:00

Amy I don't have many memories to recall since I have severe memory loss. Oh how sad that makes me. So I will do a tribute to you for what I love about you today:

1. You are probably the least judgemental person I know.
2. You are definitely the kindest.
3. You make everyone feel at ease immediately upon meeting you.
4. Maybe it's because you have no fear of ripping a fart when the urge comes upon you. (okay you knew a fart comment would come out!)
5. You are so incredibly loving and affectionate.
6. You are the only one I know who can love other people's kids like they were your own.
7. You love to laugh.
8. Even if it means you pee your pants or fart.
9. Our family is very important to you.
10. You are very forgiving.
11. You are a great mom.
12. You are a patient wife.
13. You have a way of making anything look cute (even if it's a trailer in West Valley)
14. You are a great friend.
15. And make friends easily.
16. You are so down-to-earth.
17. You are open to suggestions or advice.
18. You blow up at your kids just like I do.
19. You love to eat just like I do.
20. You cry easily.
21. Especially when you feel the spirit.
22. You love to sing.
23. And sing like a bird. (okay that was cheezy)
24. You inspired me to do Abby's hair cute every day.
25. You bring out the best in people.
26. You are not critical.
27. Sometimes you stay in your p.j.'s all day and don't feel guilty about it.
28. You don't mind talking to me while you are on the toilet. (does that embarrass you?)
29. You don't really get embarrased easily.
30. You love having people at your house.
31. And make it a place where everyone wants to be.
32. You are good at compliments.
33. And make me feel good about myself.
34. You are one of my truest friends.
35. I hope you are only 35 because I can't think of anything else to write. ha ha!

Friends Again!

2008-02-14T16:01:00.001-07:00

Just thought I'd do a quick post to let you all know that Abby and I are friends again! I needed a quick reality check on parenting and it has really helped. Afterall, I am the mom, right? For as much as she drives me nuts, she brings me more happiness. Thanks for all your kind words of support. It really helped. She is actually screaming right now as I am writing this. I have to remember one of my favorite sayings in parenthood "this too shall pass!"

Wow I've been tagged! I feel so Special!

2008-02-08T12:59:00.000-07:00

I have never been tagged before and am not quite sure what to do but here goes. Oh and thank you katie for being the one to make me feel special.

The rules:
1) Link to the person that tagged you.
2) Post the rules on your blog.
3) Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself.
4) Tag at least three people at the end of your post and link to their blogs.
5) Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
6) Let the fun begin!

1. I am a relatively shy person. I know hard to believe. Once I get comfortable around someone it's a different story but initially I hold back and don't always initiate conversation.

2. I have a fetish with clean floors. I can let most things go in my house but I cannot handle crumbs and stuff on the floors. I am constantly sweeping and vacuuming my floors.

3. I simply cannot go to sleep without washing my face and brushing my teeth at night. Like I literally can't fall asleep knowing my teeth are furry and my make-up is not off!

4. I weigh myself every morning without fail before I get in the shower. It helps me to know how I should eat that day. If I am a few pounds up..I try to lay off the ding dongs. If I am a few pounds down..I down a bag of doritos. (JK!)

5. I cry whenever someone else cries. I cry sometimes when I go into my kids school. I cry in pack meeting when we are saying the pledge of allegience. I cry when my primary kids sing awesome after working hard on a new song. Sometimes I cry for no reason at all.

6. Sometimes I feel like a loser because I don't have much going on in my life. Like maybe I should be running a thousand directions. Involved in tons of stuff. But right now my life is pretty simple and I like it. But I feel like maybe I should be doing more.

There I did it. You probably know everything else there is to know about me because I happen to be a little "too honest" about myself. Maybe you already knew all of things too. Who knows?

I tag....Amy (my sister), Amy (my sister-in-law), April, Mom and Tara

Terrible Two's? That's an UNDERSTATEMENT!

2008-02-05T14:13:00.001-07:00

I am warning you upfront..this is going to be a very negative post. However, it is written out of desperation and frustration. For those of you who know me, I am very honest. (too honest most of the time! ie. do people really need to know when I am constipated?) I do not place my children on a pedastal. I do not pretend they are perfect. Well I am going to "let the cat out of the bag" and announce to you all that my beautiful 2 yr old "princess" has suddenly turned into the "wicked witch of the north, south, east AND west"! First of all, before I elaborate, I will admit that she definitely "has my number"! I realize this and could probably tell any of YOU how to handle the situation according to Super Nanny or Dr. Laura, etc. But for some reason, it is harder to be objective when it is your own kids and lately, all I want to do is sit in a corner and cry. Let me begin. She freaks out if I sing! (unless she is asking me to) She won't even let me sing in church. She says "Don't sing mom!" She will not eat off any plate other than a pink one. She will only use a spoon, not a fork. She goes nuts if there is a hair on her. She thinks any sort of lint or string that is black is a SPIDER and goes balistic! She throws herself down in the hall of church and screams the second we walk through the doors. She insists on walking through a parking lot HERSELF! Even if it's covered in ice. She won't take a nap. She screams for a good half hour at night at bedtime. She won't eat ANY vegetables and not much else of nutritional value. She insists on eating string cheese and then just shreds it up and places it all over the house. (found it in my shower this morning) She screams when I drop Connor off at school because she wants to go to "her school". She smears her food all over herself, including her hair, at each meal. She screams all through sacrament meeting. She screams when she sees Zach passing the sacrament because she wants him. She won't wear certain outfits. She floods the bathroom with every bath. She won't let me blow-dry her hair (okay I will cut her slack on that one) She won't ride in the front of the cart-only the back and then insists on standing up. I could go on and but do you get the picture? When I am at home I rarely cave in to all her demands. Time out has started to really work. However, when I am in public it is a different matter. I know I need to leave the store, don't try to go to lunch, pull over the car if needed when she is having a hissy fit, etc. I know all these things and really do try hard to do them but sometimes it's just not realistic. For example, do I quit going to church? Obviously whatever I am doing is not working. Now let me tell you all that I love this girl to death just in case you are getting the wrong idea here but I am really starting to want her to "grow up" so she will grow out of this stage and that makes me SO sad! Any advice?

2008-01-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

Have you ever googled the image "barf"? Seriously, as if I am not sick enough. Actually, I picked the least disgusting one I could find. Can I tell you how bad I hate to throw up? I hate it worse than most anything. I will go to great lengths not to throw up! How in the world could anyone be bulemic? I admit it there have been days when I have felt fat and swore to myself I was just going to start "starving" myself but within a few hours I am weak and shaky and have to eat. Then there are times when after eating a whole Training Table #25 and an order of cheese fries with dipping sauce I might add that I have just wanted to purge but It doesn't get any farther than that. I decide I would rather be fat than throw up! These past few days I have had the stomach flu and on the 3rd day still feel "yucky"! Isn't it the worst to throw up when there is nothing in your stomach? I know this is a disgusting post but considering this has been my life for the past 3 days I thought I'd mention it. (Oh, and of course Alan has to be out of town!)

3 Things...

2008-01-22T16:09:00.000-07:00

1. My girl is a DRAMA QUEEN! She gets upset and says
"I sad mom! I cry!"

2. If you haven't see "Dan in Real Life" GO SEE IT!

3. I have a hair appointment on THURSDAY!!!!

Bad Hair Day, Everyday?

2008-01-16T11:59:00.001-07:00

HELP! I need a new hairdresser. I have gone through 2 and still am not happy. A couple of years ago, I found my dream hairdresser! She cut my hair perfect-just the way I liked it and always knew what I was talking about. Well, she moved away and ever since I have been in mourning! Does anyone have a hairdresser that you just love and doesn't cost an arm and a leg? (I would prefer they be close by.) Please respond quickly..I can't take another day!

Snowman, Alan Style!

2008-01-13T14:51:00.001-07:00

Happy January!

2008-01-11T08:09:00.001-07:00

Wow! It feels like I haven't blogged forever! I have been very busy..but doing what? I don't really know. I guess just the same old stuff but for some reason I have been feeling more demands from my kids-especially the little ones. "Hold you mom! Hold you!".." Mom will you make me a fried egg?" .."You dress Polly Pocket for me?"..."Mooommm!! I'm done..wipe me!"..and it goes on and on!! Not that I am complaining it's just that lately I don't feel I have had much time to myself. Abby is officially off the binky. Yippee! It was a lot less traumatic than I thought it would be. But now for some reason she will not take a nap! UGH! I sure did look forward to that time of day. I have completely become absorbed in these political debates but I am not even going to go there! All I can say is...Wow! This sure will be interesting!

So, remember when I blogged about the pink doll stroller rolling around our house? Well, Santa happened to drop a darling pink kitchen set down our chimney. You can imagine my excitement about that one!! To my surprise, she actually plays with it. Yes, I am in heaven with the girl stuff. Well, I don't have anything profound or thought provoking to say..just happy to be back to normal life!

"To Dog or not to Dog"

2007-12-20T08:42:00.001-07:00

That is the question. This past week we have spent dog-sitting my mom's shiht-zu Molly. I never thought I would like a little house dog but we have thoroughly enjoyed her. My kids have been begging us for another dog ever since we put Sam to sleep. I have said that if we do ever get another dog it will be an "inside" one so we can actually play with it. I have spent hours the past few weeks on KSL classifieds and Craiglist searching for the "right" dog for us. Here is the criteria:

1. Cannot shed
2. Cannot stink
3. Cannot pee in the house (or poop)
4. Cannot bark
5. No puppies.

I have had a hard time finding one! Actually I have had to modify the list a little. I still don't want one that sheds. The stinking I think I can control with frequent trips to the groomers. I definitely want one that is house-broken. (please..I already have one in diapers and one in pull-ups!) and I would prefer one that is at least 1 year old. I am thinking after doing my research that I would want a Shihtzu (by the way..what do you call a mix between a bull-dog and a shihtzu? I'll let you figure it out. Noah has gotten a lot of mileage out of this joke!) I would also consider a cock-a-poo, a maltese poodle, a pekinese or a lahsa-apso? The problem is, Alan wants a hunting dog and aside from a lab, they are UGLY, they STINK and they SHED! The kids and I agree on wanting a little dog and as of now..it looks like we are winning the battle. What do you think? Am I crazy for wanting to take this on? or should I leave my already crazy household as it is.

p.s. I have actually been driving around with this dog on my LAP all week. I never thought I would do that. Of course I never thought I would let my kids wear Spider-Man crap either! (pictured below-zoom in!)

Classic Connor Statement!

2007-11-29T13:14:00.000-07:00

"Mom, old people aren't cute...they're just all gross and moldy!"

Families are Forever...

2007-11-25T18:57:00.000-07:00

I know we all find comfort in these three words but there are days when I really have say..."Do I really have to deal with these kids for an eternity?" Let me explain. Getting ourselves out the door for church each week is quite a feat when we start at 9am. Well, getting ourselves back home from church has proved to be the more difficult task these days. No matter how simple we try to make it...(everyone meet at the exact same spot each week after church)....it never seems to happen. Today was no exception. After rounding up the gang, Connor caught wind that Noah and his friend were walking home from church and of course he wanted to join them. We knew that would not be a good idea so we told him "no". Well that didn't fly. He threw a major hissy fit in the hall, kicking and screaming and calling his dad an "idiot". One of kids from a more "righteous" family turned to him and said "hey..that's a swear word at our house!" So, while Alan is dealing with him, Abby has decided to take this opportunity to show her independence and insists on walking by herself all the way to the car. I picked her up kicking and screaming and put her in the car along with another kicking and screaming child who by now was saying he "hates us!" Alan and I both looked at each other like... "and our family is supposed to be better from going to church?" After arriving home it was child abuse time. That consisted of Alan and I holding Connor down and putting tabasco sauce in his mouth. I felt kind of bad but not really! He was then sent to his room where he proceeded to scream more obscenities at us. (These included more of I hate you's..shut ups and an occasional you idiot!) So back upstairs for more tabasco! Back down to his room and then back up for this time..cucumber melon flavored soap! (obviously the tabasco wasn't working!) Well after about 45 min of this, he finally conked out and went to sleep. He woke up an hour later and said "the bad Connor had gone away and the good Connor was back!" So, as much as I love my darling family pictured above, there are days when I wonder if I can really endure this for an eternity!

There, I have just "aired my dirty laundry" for the week! Just in case you were thinking we were PERFECT! ha ha

Chicken Tacos with a Twist

2007-11-14T18:12:00.000-07:00

Dinner tonight was a "slam dunk" as April would put it. I was feeling unmotivated to do anything that took effort so I pulled out the crockpot, put in some frozen chicken breasts, dumped some leftover salsa from the fridge and decided "hey, why not throw some brown sugar in it as well!(knock off of Cafe Rio pork) Well about 4 hours later after some pinto beans, sour cream, cheese, romaine and of course homemade tortillas from Costco--voila...the best darn chicken tacos I've ever made! Everyone loved them! Sometimes the least effort provides the best results, huh?

This post is dedicated to all of my "new recipe starved friends"

What's a girl to do without good friends?

2007-11-11T20:33:00.000-07:00

As a young girl, I don't remember my mom "hanging out" with friends. She seemed like such a "mom" to me and "moms" just didn't do that. Well, either times have changed or I haven't started to act like a "real mom" yet. I often think about the wonderful friends I have in my life. I feel so blessed to have so many. They all have such unique personalities that have truly helped to shape me into who I have become and still want to become. Every close friendship that I have is an influence for good. Some friends help me to become more spiritual, some to be less critical, some to laugh a little more, some to be a better homemaker, some to be a better listener, some to serve more and all of them help me to be a better mother! (If you're reading this and trying to figure out which friend you are...don't!) I honestly don't know how you get through this difficult yet beautiful life without friends to share in your sorrows as well as your joys. I am just grateful that Heavenly Father has blessed me with such great friendships that I know will last a lifetime! I hope I can always be deserving of this wonderful blessing.

Now enough of the mushy stuff..did you guys have a great weekend? Because I sure did!!!

Happy Birthday Princess!

2007-11-04T21:10:00.000-07:00

Today is my baby's 2nd birthday and I am sad and also glad at the same time. Sad because she is growing up way too fast and she is my last baby. Glad because she is finally old enough for me to buy her "girly" things. As of tonight, we have a pink doll stroller rolling around our house and I could not be happier! This is my chance to "play house" as an adult! We had such a fun evening with her running around in her "princess" outfit. She was pushing her new "Merdaid" doll around in the stroller and drinking gatorade out of her new tea set! (I had no idea about the gatorade...Connor apparently put some in the teapot!) Anyway, I love this little girl with all of my heart and only hope that when she is older she will still love me and want to be my friend. I hope she still won't be hanging on my leg and calling me "Kristen" all day! I thought it would be fun to take a trip down memory lane...so here's to you Abby!

Tonight on her 2nd birthday!
These are her "Look Connor..I'm a princess!" poses.
Is she cute or what?

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T18:52:00.001-06:00

It's Halloween night and as tradition goes, Alan is out with the little kids trick-or-treating and I get to be the one home passing out candy. (I love that part!) The big boys? Well they are on their own this year. Later we will head over to the campfire and homemade donuts at the swim club and then on to our neighbors "haunted garage" for ice cream and nachos. Yes I am hating it--no self control! Oh and just wait for the kids to fall asleep tonight so I can rummage through all their candy and take out all the snickers bars and almond joys. yum yum! Oh I just love the holidays! As you can see, my kids look pretty cute this year. Noah insisted on being "Hannah Montana" (in case you couldn't figure that one out) but I think he pulled it off okay. Zach pretty much just looked in our costume closet and found something he could put on to justify going trick-or-treating since I told him this is his last year. Connor, well let's just say he can play up ANY PART to the "T". At his preschool parade today, all the other kids were pretty reserved and were all in these cute costumes and Connor was running around scaring everyone with his fangs! He had all the moves down and believed completly that he was a real vampire! Abby is just as cute as a "bug"!

Pumpkin Carving at its Best!

2007-10-30T21:25:00.000-06:00

The kids wanted to carve pumpkins the other night and Alan and I both looked at each other with dread knowing it had to be done but neither having the energy to accomplish the task. Thank goodness for an ambitious, excited and overzealous 12 yr old who immediately put newspapers out on the driveway, got out all the appropriate tools, and even thought to set bowls out to put the guts in. It wasn't long before they needed help cutting and scooping and before we knew it, Alan and I were right in the thick of things carving our OWN pumpkins. Thanks to Alan's parents for growing enough for everyone in the family. Anyway, for what seemed like a daunting task, it actually turned out to be quite fun and was a bonding experience for the whole family. No one was fighting. Zach and Noah were actually complimenting each other and encouraging one another which is a rarity in our home. Connor of course picked the biggest pumpkin and as you can see drew the face all by himself... and Abby? She just drew all over herself with marker.

And I wonder why I feel FAT...

2007-10-28T15:02:00.001-06:00

I am cursing Alan's dad right now for giving me bags of fresh apples picked from their trees. They happen to grow the BEST apples! Well, since then, an apple pie has been calling my name. This is the reason that I curse his dad. (not really) Growing up, I hated fruit oriented desserts. (cobblers, pies, apple crisp, etc.) They always seemed like "old lady" desserts. Well, I guess I have become an old lady because I would now almost always pick pie over cake. Alan's dad is quite the pie maker and a few years ago I wanted to challenge myself to learn to make pie and I have to admit, I succeeded. It is Sunday afternoon and afterall, what is Sunday without a yummy dessert? So I have been in the kitchen the past hour making an apple pie. Considering I ate half of a HUGE piece of Mud Pie last night on our double date with Katie and Josh and today will be indulging myself in a rather large piece of apple pie..it is no wonder that I feel I am busting out of my jeans! All of my efforts to go to the gym this past month are not paying off and my lack of self control in the area of food is the reason. Why can't I be like Brooke and be satisfied with only a sliver? Should I wait until after the holidays to begin to restrain myself or should I use the upcoming holiday season to learn some self control?

p.s Abby laid in her crib for over 2 hours attempting to take a nap this afternoon. She never cried..just hollered out a few times for a drink or to tell me she pooped. I finally conceeded and got her up and she said "nice nap mom!" She is so funny!

Have I mentioned that I LOVE fall?

2007-10-23T13:47:00.001-06:00

Is it a Man Thing?

2007-10-21T20:42:00.000-06:00

I am not much of a TV watcher in the summer. I have to admit though, as soon as it gets dark and cold at night, one of my favorite things to do is wash my face, brush my teeth, get in my cozy pajamas and ......turn on the TV! 9pm has become one of my most favorite times of day. My house is almost always quiet and I can hardly wait to get down under my big fluffy comforter and watch something really uplifting and inspirational on tv. (like The Bachelor!) It really frustrates me when they get you all hyped up for a new season of shows and then they start throwing some old episodes in with the new. (Like we aren't supposed to notice that Olivia from Law & Order SVI has her hair super short in some episodes and long in others?) Anyway, the inspiration for this blog came from the sudden panic that just came over me when I just realized that it's pushing 9pm and Alan actually got to the remote before I did. Which means he will be lying in bed channel surfing for the next 30 min. Then before he can get involved in any particular show he will break out into a loud snore and I will be ticked because it is 9:30 and any show I wanted to watch would be half-way over. Should that bug me? Because it kinda does!

Is channel surfing a "man thing"? or is it just an "Alan Thing"?

The Chicken Cordon Bleu was a Hit!

2007-10-17T13:44:00.000-06:00

What's on the table this week...

2007-10-16T12:47:00.000-06:00

Wow, second week in a row of meals planned and we actually ate all of them minus the tomato soup and grilled cheese so as you will see it has moved into this week's spot. I have planned another menu for this week and thought you would like to get ideas or copy the exact menu as my sister Tara did last week. (Her poor kids. They are at my mercy now with what shows up on their table!)
*** Chicken Cordon Bleu (as per Zach's request)
*** Cahoon's Pot Roast (the best pot roast EVER!)
*** Hamburger Casserole (Johnson Family Cookbook p. 55 -for my sisters' sake)
(basically hamb, corn, cr mush, cr chick soups, sour cream, onion, egg noodles, bread crumbs- sounds good and EASY!)
*** Parmesan Chicken and Lemon Peel/Zucchini Pasta (sounds fancy but it's not)
*** Chili Verde Pork Burritos
*** Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Side note: I have decided that while I may be an okay cook, I am a terrible baker! (except for my mean apple pie!) Lately, I burn every batch of cookies, my zucchini bread is soggy in the middle and my apple crisp that I made Sunday night was yucky! The apples were crunchy. I had it at a party and it was AWESOME! I followed the recipe to a "T" and it was gross. (I thought it was anyway..Zach has been eating it for 2 days straight! It's so great having a 12 yr old in the house that's the size of a small horse-literally!)

p.s. is my blog hard to read? or is it just me? it kind of makes my eyes hurt but it sure looks cute, huh?

Bye Bye Binky?

2007-10-11T16:48:00.000-06:00

Do you ever feel like as a mom, it's easier to see what other people's kids "should" or "shouldn't" be doing but don't have a clue what YOU are doing? I had one of those moments today as I realized how often I am SHOVING a binky in my daughter's mouth anytime she bawls or even starts to stick her bottom lip out. (slight exaggeration-it's not that bad! Well, she does have it in her mouth most of the time.) I think it finally hit that I was making a big mistake when I realized her top teeth are starting to buck out a little from sucking on the darn thing so much. Okay she just came up to me while I am writing this and saw the picture of her with her binky and immediately started crying for her binky. Do I need to say any more?
So here is my question..Is it bad to let her keep it for a while longer since she is my baby and it makes her seem more babyish as she is approaching 2? If I am going to make the separation, do I do it gradually like just start giving it to her for naps and bedtime? Or do I just be heartless and cut the nipple off like others have suggested? Please help me! If this were your child I would have all kinds of wisdom to share with you but I am not the most objective parent right now!

What's on YOUR dinner plate?

2007-10-08T09:21:00.001-06:00

With the cool weather upon us, I am anxious to get back into my routine of cooking. There is nothing worse for me than to look at the clock, realize it's 5pm and I have NO idea what I am going to make for dinner! For those of you who know me well, know that I am kind of a planner. I enjoy making lists each morning of what I need to do that day and TRYING to accomplish those things. Although I have to admit, the things I don't want to do almost always end up coming up again on the next day's list. Anyway, for several years now I have become pretty consistent at planning out my weekly menus. I SWEAR by this! I like to even plan when we are going to eat what depending on who will be home and what activities we have planned that night. It saves me several trips to the grocery store and in turn, saves me $$$! Well, as I started "planning" my day today, I came up with several meals that I had previously purchased the stuff for and here is what I came up with. I post this not to BOAST at my fancy dinners (which you can see they are not!) but to give you an idea of what WE eat on a given week. I am always wondering what other people eat for dinner? Do they regularly eat Hamburger Helper and Fish Sticks? or are they Chicken Marsala kind of people? I think we are somewhere in between. Dinners at the C house this week will consist of the following:

**Chicken Noodle Soup (made from leftover Rotisserie Chicken from Costco)

**French Dip Sandwiches

**Creamy Pesto Pasta w/Chicken (Knorr's seasoning packet--very yummy!)

**Chili and Cheese Baked Potatoes (leftover chili from conference sunday)

**Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup (Noah's favorite and total copout dinner)

**Beef Enchiladas

As you can see, we are not too fancy at our house but the ultimate goal is to get everyone fed and to hopefully "sit down together for family dinner" as Elder Dallin H. Oaks pointed out the importance of in conference. Do you remember the statistics he gave-something like 40% of kids who regularly sit down and eat family dinner, stay away from drugs and alcohol. (something like that.) This just reinforced to me how important this really is. I love to get ideas and suggestions for new meals and something about the fall weather really gets me excited to start cooking nice meals again for my family so do you mind letting me know "What's on Your dinner plate?"

SpiderMan..SpiderMan..Does Whatever a Spider Can!

2007-09-27T16:01:00.000-06:00

Spins a web..any size...Catches criminals..just like flies!

Okay scarey, huh! I know the song! This blog is dedicated to my sweet 4year old. With Halloween upon us I think maybe we might retire the spidey costume and explore other options. As of now, he wants to be a MUMMY!! oooh scarey! It HAS to be scarey! So what...do I wrap him in toilet paper? I will have to think about this one.

I have to tell a funny Connor story. The other day he did something that made me REALLY mad. He does this so often that I cannot even remember what it was. Anyway we were in the car and I told him when we got home he was going to have to go to time out. He said "mom, that was just the BAD Connor that said that so you can only put the BAD Connor in time out!" I kind of ignored him and as soon as we got home I went to put him in time out and he said "No, I am the NICE Connor so you can't put me in time out!" I said, "where is the BAD Connor?" He said "He's not here anymore it's only ME the NICE Connor!" Nice try, huh!

By the way, he insisted on wearing his costume (mask and all) to the primary program practice last week. We were in the chapel and here he is sitting up on the stand in his costume! It was pretty funny I must admit!

Chiroptophobia aka Fear of Bats!!!

2007-09-24T08:36:00.000-06:00

Many of us have developed phobias over they years. I have a small fear of heights but not enough to consider it a phobia. I do however have a fear of BATS! Let me explain where this fear originated from. Growing up in Michigan, we lived in several different homes. My mom apparently had a "phobia" of staying in the same house too long. Well, we finally settled down in an old and rather large home set on a wonderful street that was just two blocks from town. I especially liked it because it was only a few houses down from my boyfriend's house. Well, this quickly became another home remodeling project as did most of our previous homes. My mom has an incredible talent of turning anything into something beautiful. This home actually had a lot of potential and it wasn't long before it became an amazing place to live. (except for the bats that is!) There were four stories to this house and the 4th consisted of two bedrooms and a large attic type storage room. (if I remember correctly). Tara and I quickly turned this level of the home into our own "private quarters". We each had a darling room with a little nook where we put our beds. Well, these little "nooks" soon became my place of terror. I spent night after night lying in bed hearing bats fluttering and screeching in my wall behind my bed. My parents finally took action and hired an exterminator. He found hundreds of them in the attic hanging like clusters of grapes. (am I exaggerating Tara? I don't think so!) He got rid of them. However, several of them were forced into the rest of the house and it wan't uncommon to have a bat dart above your head every now and again. So tell me this, do I have reason to have "Chiroptophobia"?

I Need to go to Bloggers Anonymous!

2007-09-20T13:23:00.000-06:00

I have decided I have a serious problem. I have become addicted to blogging. I am no longer in denial..it is out in the open. It's all my sister's fault..afterall she got me started. I am in a slump. I am only getting the bare necessities done. I now have 3 hours each day in which I have a completely quiet house with NO ONE bugging me and I am wasting my time. Now I know blogging is not a WASTE of time but there are much more productive things I could be doing especially because most of the people I blog with I pretty much talk to almost everyday anyway. What is it about blogging that is so appealing? (to me anyway)

Please help me! Do I need a life? Maybe so. I keep thinking of all the things I could be doing with my "spare time" and quickly think, "who cares if my storage room is cleaned out or not?" or "do I really need to go around and dust all my light fixtures?"

The laundry is usually done, the house shouldn't be condemned, most evenings I have a hot meal on the table (even if it is tomato soup and grilled cheese) and most of the beds get made. Is there really any more that HAS to be done? Nobody really cares but me. The kids could care less. My hubby never complains as long as he has clean "g's" and pants to wear to work. So why am I feeling guilty?

Should I take a "blogging leave of absence" or would you miss me? I am setting myself up with that question, huh?

Thank Goodness for Pools

2007-09-17T13:39:00.001-06:00

I just returned from visiting Tara in Arizona. All I can say is thanks goodness she has a pool because IT WAS HOT! The little kids literally swam all day long. They were little fish! It was so fun to watch them. It was about the only activity that didn't cause "gender issues" between C and E. The rest of the time they were arguing about "girl" things and "boys" for example according to E bees "only sting boys" which of course put C in an uproar. E finally convinced C to play barbie.com but it did't last long. They would move on to playing house and C insisted on being "Alan" and E wanted to be "Tara". Well I informed them that it wasn't the most appropriate idea so Emma agreed to become "Kristen". Tara and I were laughing at them. They were so cute. A pretty much followed them around trying to keep her bangs out of eyes. She told Tara that hair was "broken". I had a great time and at times like this am glad my sisters live out of state because then I get to go visit them! I love you Tara!

Internet Safety

2007-09-15T12:06:00.000-06:00

Last week we had a youth fireside for parents and youth on Internet Safety. We had a woman Linda Criddle speak to us. She has a written a book called Look Both Ways. I know a few of you are already doing some of these things but for some of us who are new to the blogging world I thought I would post a few of her cautionary suggestions.

Avoid using specific names on your blogs especially your childrens. Don't make reference to your last name either. It takes only seconds for people to do a search and come up with a name, address and phone#.
Be careful of the pictures you post. Make sure they don't have a lot of personal information on them (ie. house number in background-if it's your home, school team names, street names, license plates, etc.)
Be careful of information we talk about on our blogs. (ie. kids schedules, school names, when we are out of town, when our fellow bloggers are out of town, etc.)
Avoid posting "online quizzes" on your blogs. Often they give out way too much personal information.
Consider only letting a "restricted" set of people to view your blogs.
Remember "a friend of a friend" is a STRANGER to us. Everyone knows a criminal. We just may not know they are a criminal.
Avoid using public information as password for accounts, etc. (ie. marriage date, high school graduation date, birthdates, maiden names, etc.) Especially for the password memory refresher questions.

These are just a few of the key ideas that I jotted down during the fireside. This woman is basically hired to "act like a predator" in finding information on people from their websites, blogs, etc. She has actually called some of the people who's blogs have been too "public" and relayed all the information that she had gathered about their lives and it freaked many of them out. She especially mentioned "My Space" and other websites like it.

She pointed out that she didn't want to scare people away from the internet but just wanted people to take these things into consideration. There are predators out there who are specifically looking for people to scam, take advantage of and even worse. It was sure an eye opener to me. I think it's especially important for us to think about when we get to the stage where our children may "chat" with their friends or even have "innocent" blogs themselves.

Her website is http://www.look-both-ways.com/

2007-09-11T11:57:00.000-06:00

Are you like me and whenever you see a recipe that calls for white wine you skip right over it no matter how good it looks? For some reason the idea of having to make a trip to the liquor store seems quite intimidating and a little scarey. Call me sheltered if you will but I don't even know where the nearest liquor store is let alone what kind of "white wine" to buy for cooking purposes. Today I was emailed by a good friend from back home in Michigan. She sent me a (what appears to be) a yummy recipe for chicken that she makes quite often. It seems I have heard that cooking wine is not the same thing and will not give you what you are hoping to achieve in a recipe. I checked on the internet and one site said to try white grape juice. Does anyone have any suggestions for me?

Yes..I'm Lovin' It!!!

2007-09-04T21:17:00.001-06:00

I must admit, for the past year and a half people have been asking me "So what's it like having a girl? Is she different than your boys?" and I pretty much have told everyone that same thing. "She's not that much different yet..I just get to dress her a lot cuter. "

Well, I can say with a surety now that SHE IS DIFFERENT!! She has turned WAY GIRLY on me and I have to say I'm lovin' it! She discovered these cowboy boots in her closet a few weeks ago and wants to wear them ALL THE TIME! She FREAKS out if I don't put them on. I'm talking throw herself down and have a major hissy fit until she gets her way. Anytime I pull out an outfit she hasn't seen yet she says "Cuuuute!" and wants to put it on. This is why she is wearing a sweatshirt with her cowboy boots when it's pushing 100 degrees outside. I could go on and on and on about all the girly things she does but I am sure no one will find them as cute as I do..so all I can say is "YES...I am lovin' it!"

and her brother sure loves her too!

Football For Dummies!

2007-09-03T16:54:00.000-06:00

Okay, one of my worst fears has come true. One of my children has taken up a sport that I know NOTHING about. I have never understood football, have never even liked football and now I look like an idiot parent! N had his first game on Saturday and I had a few different moms ask me what position he played and I'm like "I don't really know" (what positions ARE there?) Crap until Saturday I didn't even realize what number he was. For the record in case I forget..it's 41. We will be spending the next 9 Saturdays at games so I better get a crash course on the game. Maybe we could read this for our next book club??

Here is a picture of him from his game. Notice the nice sweaty-do! He's pretty cute though!

New Read for Book Club

2007-08-30T15:54:00.000-06:00

We are going to read this for Book Club this month. I am pretty excited because it looks really good. I just thought I would post this to remind you fellow book clubbers to reserve it at the library and for those of you who read this blog, I will keep you posted on how it is.
http://www.holtzbrinckpublishers.com/images/Books/ReadersGuides/0312199430RG.pdf

Josh Groban Forever!!

2007-08-29T18:19:00.001-06:00

Last night I had the pleasure of going to see Josh Groban in concert! I know I know...Colin Raye, REO Speedwagon and now JOSH? I seriously NEVER go to concerts and within one week I have been to two. Anyway, despite the fact that I came down with a major nose runner of a cold just hours before I left for the concert and spent the remaining time blowing my nose throughout the ENTIRE concert, IT WAS FABULOUS!!! Boy can that guy sing!! I cannot believe how powerful his voice is. He was so cute, so witty, so down to earth and SO TALENTED! I pretty much fell in love with him for the night. Don't worry Alan, as soon as I came home to your sweet melodies of snoring softly in my bed next to me, I was over Josh! I have wanted to see him in concert forever and it was better than I could have anticipated! If any of you get the chance to see him..DO IT!

School at Last..It couldn't come soon enough!!

2007-08-27T12:03:00.000-06:00

Okay first I have to say "check out my kids' feet!" I just bought them new shoes and Z is now in a size 10!! I was freaking out! Now take a look at N's shoes. Are they ugly or what? He was SO excited when he saw these and I am guessing it was because they said "Hurley" on them and not the fact that they have hideous designs all over them. He was in shock when I said he could buy them. It was only because Famous Footwear was having their BOGO 1/2 off sale so they ended up costing me like $12. It is times like these that I realize that Z and N must have come from 2 different planets. Z was freaking out that N would actually put those on his feet, let alone wear them to school. I guess you can say that N is more "comfortable in his own shoes".
So the kids are off and I am sitting here blogging when I have 10,000 other things to be doing. A is in bed and C is over visiting his 76+ year old BEST FRIEND "Berginia" AKA Virginia. He has on more than one occasion knocked on her door to see if she could "play". I am overwhelmed and am fighting a headache so my day of getting much accomplished may not turn out the way I had hoped.

2 posts in 2 days..pretty impressive, huh?

My Brother's a Rock Star!!

2007-08-26T20:57:00.000-06:00

This past week I had a wonderful time with Amy and Tara. It's not often that I get BOTH of my sisters to stay with me and we had a great time. I guess this is the one and only blessing of having them live out of state...we get to have slumber parties when they come visit. Wednesday night we all went to the Colin Raye/REO Speedwagon concert for the USANA friends and family. I had to post this picture because that cool dude on the keyboards is actually MY BROTHER Shawn. I think he was in heaven as he played in the band for Colin and also for Juice Newton. It was a great night with my family.

Well it is Sunday night. The kids are in bed anxious for a new year of school to start tomorrow. I am so excited to get back on some kind of routine. It's funny how once the first week of school starts each year I am SO ready! This past week I have been counting down the days until I can have quiet time with the 2 little ones and actually start accomplishing some things. Hopefully if I am on the ball enough I will get "first day of school" pictures taken for an upcoming post.

The Blessings of the Priesthood

2007-08-11T15:53:00.000-06:00

Last week Z and AC went on a 50 mile week long hike with the scouts of our ward. It was a great experience for them both. They both led their group most of the way throughout the week. AC said Z proved to have a lot of endurance and rarely complained. (Wow! Was I proud!!) AC felt very strong and had a lot of stamina for the duration of the hike--until the last day. He felt a sickness coming on early in the day on Friday but didn't say anything for fear of slowing the group down. He continued on for about 6hours feeling sicker by the hour. The group had already decided previously to continue hiking through the night so they could get to their cars and get home earlier than expected. They were apparently too exhausted to set up camp AGAIN for another night. AC started experiencing fever like symptoms and started feeling dilirious. He finally let the group know he could not go any further. He asked for a priesthood blessing and when they asked for his full name, he was so out of it he couldn't even recall it. They had to ask Z for it. They gave him a wonderful blessing promising him that he would make it out with the rest of the group. The minute they finished the blessing, AC said he felt immediate strength. He regained his stamina and was able to help the group out of the woods in the dark. Upon arriving at the cars, he immediately was overcome by all the symptoms again-feeling horribly sick to his stomach, weak, dizzy, etc. He said as soon as he walked in our front door he threw up. Apparently the young 12-13 year old boys (as well as some of the adult leaders) were quite touched by seeing the power of the priesthood displayed so strongly. I am so glad that Z was able to witness it and am also grateful that not only my husband is worthy to give priesthood blessings but also to receive them as well.

Exciting New Read!

2007-07-26T20:36:00.000-06:00

I had my eye on this book quite some time ago and decided to buy it for my friend Tausha for her birthday. (Thinking..hmm...I can give this to HER and then BORROW it when she's done!) Well she informed me after giving it to her that she has already read it and LOVED it so now I have just gotten myself a new book! I am really excited to read this although she said it is VERY sad. Anyway, I thought I would pass it along. It's a HOT BOOKCLUB book so I hear!

Check out this link and it will tell you more about it.http://www.memorykeepersdaughter.com/

So Long my Furry Friends! (boo hoo)

2007-07-22T13:53:00.000-06:00

Okay I know you are all sick of the hamster stories! Well, so am I!! (although they did make for some good bloggin'!) After trying to spread the news via word of mouth, there was actually no action on getting rid of the hamsters. So AC mentioned to me Friday morning that I ought to try KSL classifieds online. Took his advice, posted an ad for FREE HAMSTERS, and boom withing 30 min I had a call for the hamsters. Yes! she wanted both of them! Well I continued to take calls throughout the day and started an actual "waiting list". It was a good thing because the first lady totally stiffed me and never came to pick them up. So I went to the next person on the list and this dad came right over and took them off my hands! Who knew that hamsters would be so popular? When the dad left with BOTH hamsters I said under my breath "SUCKERS!"

Well now that the hamsters are gone, what on earth am I going to write about?

Happy Birthday Tara!

2007-07-20T09:50:00.000-06:00

Yes Amy I stole your idea but I figure since she is "my sister for the year" I have perogative!
10 Reasons Why I Love Tara
1. She is spiritual.
2. She is a good listener.
3. She is nurturing.
4. She likes good food as much as I do.
5. She yells at her kids sometimes like me.
6. She is a good friend.
7. She put my 1st tampon in for me. (okay I HAD to put that!)
8. She is very selfless. (obviously! example above!)
9. She finds the best in others.
10. She loves me inspite of my faults. (which are many!)

Happy Birthday Tara! I hope this day is a good one and I hope your package arrives in time!

The Internet, My New Bestfriend

2007-07-19T08:32:00.000-06:00

So last night Z is getting ready to go to the temple for his 1st time and is SO excited! Well AC was not home and he came running down the stairs in a panic saying "I don't know how to tie my tie!" (Yes he is 12 and still relies on dad to tie his tie!) Well I said just tell one of your leaders to tie it for you when you get picked up or go to the neighbors. Well he quickly shot down both of the ideas saying he felt like an idiot! I said well "I don't know what to tell you then because I certainly don't know how to tie it!" Well, I was busy ironing and next thing I know he comes running down the stairs again with his tie tied PERFECTLY. He said "Mom, I just got on the internet and googled 'how to tie a tie' and it gave me step by step instructions!" Do I have a resourceful son or WHAT? I now truly believe you can learn ANYTHING from the internet.

Hamsters For Sale!!!

2007-07-17T21:34:00.000-06:00

For sale! Um actually they are free. These are 2 ADORABLE and WELL BEHAVED hamsters who need a good home. Included in the package are not only both hamsters, but their ESCAPE PROOF cages, toys, bedding and the next 6 months supply of food. Please respond QUICKLY! Time is NOT on their side!

check out this article that amy's friend recommended

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19762075/site/newsweek/page/0/

It's just Me, A and the RUNAWAY HAMSTER

2007-07-13T22:18:00.000-06:00

So, Ac took the boys on the annual Valley View 1st ward "Fathers and Sons" outing and now after going to dinner with some gals from the ward and then coming here after for a mean game of phase 10, I am finding myself sitting here with only myself and A ( who is asleep) and another hamster on the loose. No WAY!!! As I am writing this out of the corner of my eye I see this rodent running across the kitchen floor and YES it's the hamster!!! I just tried to catch it and it freaked out on me and now I have it cornered under the computer desk as I am typing this. How can I be scared of a LITTLE hamster? I am terrified right now but I am going to be brave (since I pretty much have NO CHOICE) and try to catch the thing so I will be right back!!! Okay, mission accomplished! Oreo is back in his cage and my heart if pounding right now. I HATE THESE BLANKETY BLANK HAMSTERS!!! THIS IS NOT FUNNY ANYMORE!!
Should I let them both go in the backyard while the kids are gone? At least I can sleep tonight knowing they are both secure in their cages!!! I just returned home from girl's camp today and haven't had a wink of sleep so I am going to turn in!!

Happy Birthday C!

2007-07-10T10:15:00.000-06:00

Today is C's 4th birthday. In honor of this event, we decided to give him his 1st SHORT haircut. I feel like I have a new child. It's amazing how much different he looks. Unfortunately he still acts the same! Just kidding! C has the funniest personality of any kid I know. We go to the pool and EVERYONE who sees him hollers "Hey C! C's here everyone!" The small kids as well as the older ones. He leaves an impression everywhere he goes. C thinks everyone is his new best friend. He is very creative and spends most of his days in costume. Spiderman is definitely his best friend. Mr. Poop has become his new friend as well as he is no longer afraid of him but actually welcomes him with open arms (well maybe open-bum) He is always full of questions and wonder and his mind NEVER stops working. Ask Papa-Bud and he will tell you he is a motor-mouth "through and through". C makes us laugh EVERY DAY of our lives and this world would definitely be at a loss without him. We love you C!

I need some "Brain Food"

2007-07-08T19:20:00.000-06:00

Seriously, I am already starting to feel like a BLOB this summer. I pretty much hang out at the pool every day and when I am not doing that I am cleaning, doing laundry, etc. (Yes Katie, I do need to come swim with you and Annette!) Anyway, I need some good books to read so please pass this along to any of your friends so I can get a "summer reading list" going even though summer is half-way over. I am heading to girls camp this week and am quite excited! Just pray there are no bears!!

Oh "We had a Bad Day"...

2007-07-02T10:06:00.001-06:00

So, we left our house at 6am Saturday morning for what we thought would be a lovely weekend in Flaming Gorge. About 45 minutes on our way, out of nowhere came this poor little "spike" as AC would call it. For those of who are NOT rednecks that would be a small deer. Well, needless to say, I think the "spike" did not live a very long life. We had deer blood and deer fur all over the front of our car and to make matters worse..all along the driver's side of the car was an explosion of deer poo! We must have literally scared the *@#* out of him or hit him so hard that his bowels exploded. Well, after cutting all the hanging parts of our car and getting our composure, we headed back on our way. We were only in the car about 10 minutes when N decided to be sick and sat and threw up ALL over himself. Apparently he was just too sick to grab the barf bag that we had strategicaly placed right on the floor in front of him. So, again we found ourselves pulled over on the side of the freeway. N had to strip down to his bare bottoms..seriously he was BUTT naked with only his hand covering his privates as he changed into new clothes. We were all upset with him because now our car WREAKED like puke and C was now gagging and crying. Well we finally pulled into Flaming Gorge meeting AC's family with a puke filled car, a mangled front end and deer crap all over the side. However, the bright side of this is we did float down the Green River for 3 hrs with the family and had a blast.

This Weed's for You Amy!!

2007-07-02T10:02:00.001-06:00

Not to outdue you or anything Amy, but we ALSO have a nice lovely weed growing in our garden. I thought FOR SURE it had to be a flower but have since realized that no it is only a "super-sized" weed. I unlike you, have not had the heart to pull it!!

Yogurt Anyone?

2007-07-02T09:53:00.001-06:00

We Found the Hamster!

2007-06-18T13:25:00.000-06:00

I guess N was up in the night using the bathroom and there was the hamster. I am just glad it wasn't me in the middle of the night who found it or I am afraid the entire neighborhood would have heard me scream.

By the way, we started the ticket system today. So far so good. We got the whole house cleaned in just over 2 hours and not too many complaints. I will keep you posted on our progress.

Who thinks blogging is stupid? I beg to differ!

2007-06-12T13:27:00.000-06:00

WOW! If I ever once thought blogging was a waste of time am I wrong. In response to my last blog I already got an awesome idea on getting my kids to work and I am going to try it! For those of you who are interested (katie-you may have already done something similar) check out my sister amy's link and then link over to her friend Amanda's. Read down a few older posts and you will see her ticket idea!

By the way--still no hamster!

I feel like a Drill Sargeantt!!!

2007-06-11T18:47:00.000-06:00

Okay I need help. It's only the 2nd week into summer and I am already having problems. How do I get my boys to work without me holding a gun to their heads? (just kidding about the gun) No seriously, I came up with this plan for our summer days. Monday mornings are cleaning day. The other days we get up and get the house pulled together with a few varying chores through the week and the HIT THE POOL! Well, last week the boys wanted to earn money for hamsters (which we lost BOTH of them today in the house but we found one. The other one is MIA and I am freaked out that it's gonna die somewhere and make my house stink or worse find it in my bed one night) anyway back to the story. So the boys wanted to earn money for these hamsters and started doing chores for me. They did them PERFECTLY and quickly coming to me after asking for their next chore. Well, now that there is nothing to bargain for they are just TERRIBLE. They whine and complain and get distracted and do a half-way job and you get the idea. I have tried the old "you live in this house and need to earn your keep" thing. It's not that they flat out refuse but they are just so lame about it. I am feeling like the mom who does everything and gets no help and I am starting to feel like this might be a hard summer. Is it just because I have boys? Are girls naturally more willing to pitch in and get things done? I want my boys to learn how to work so they don't turn out to be male chauvinists pigs but how I do it without being the drill sargeant? Please refer any of your friends to my blog so they can give me ideas! HELP!

p.s. I really do adore my boys and they are good kids and they KNOW how to work but it's just an issue right now.

I've seen castles in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and NONE compare to this castle built by my boys!

2007-06-04T09:15:00.000-06:00

When C asked AC if he would help him build him a castle I knew he was in for much more than he bargained for. (C that is) AC doesn't do anything half-way! (Yes, I was going to say half-@** but I thought I would keep this family friendly!) Anyway we had a great time in Hawaii-the weather was great and the water was even better. We did lots of snorkeling and that was a blast for the kids. C pretty much ran up and down the beach non-stop for hours on end. When we would put him in bed at night we couldn't even turn out the light before he was ZONKED! (that is not an exaggeration!) We all got along (which was a surprise-other than a few squabbles with the kids.) We felt lucky to be on such a great vacation but were also ready to come home. One great thing for me about vacation is that I look forward to it for so long and can't wait to get out of my same-old same-old life for a bit and by the time the vacation is over I am acutally anxious to come home and get back into my same-old same-old. Is that weird? Does anyone else feel that way? I actually look forward to fixing good meals again and running errands and even doing a little cleaning. The pool is opened and SUMMER IS HERE! I can hardly wait! Here are a few more pictures of our trip.

Happy Birthday N!

2007-05-21T18:06:00.000-06:00

I spent the weekend at AC's parent's cabin in Heber to celebrate N's birthday. What a fun time we had. A and I were surrounded by 6 stinky, obnoxious boys that were so fun to be around. N had a great time and is such a goofball it's no wonder that kids like to be around him. We weren't there 10 minutes before they had headed down to the pond to come back all muddy and with tiny frogs in their hands. I was impressed with myself that I only made TWO of them shower before bed and that is because they had just come from baseball and were filthy and stinky. Both of these kids got all clean and showered and put their dirty baseball uniforms back on.!?!? I didn't get it AT ALL!

I love N so much and love to watch him around his friends. He is so witty and good natured. One of his friends was really hyper and told us he forgot to put on his ADD patch. We were laughing and N said "That's okay..I peed the bed until I was 9!" The kids just kind of laughed and N said "No really, I did!" Another kid said "That's okay, my brother (who is Z's friend) peed the bed til he was like 11!" This brother of his is pretty much the most popular kid in the 6th grade--I'm sure he appreciated that!! Anyway, it was like I was in the middle of group therapy or something with all these kids admitting their secrets (or their brother's).

We leave for Hawaii on FRIDAY!!!!!! Yippee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hip Hip Hooray...I'm doing Pigtails!!!

2007-05-10T12:27:00.000-06:00

Can I just tell you how fun it is to have a girl? I'm officially in the pigtail club (if there is such a thing) and I LOVE IT!

Latest Find...

2007-05-03T17:10:00.000-06:00

I was out at Taipan with my mom today and only
went for a "return" (yeah right) and ended up
spending a LITTLE more than I had anticipated.
However, I was very excited about these frames
I found for my bedroom. They are 16x16 and
look perfect on my blank wall in my bedroom.
Z thought it looked like an "A Shrine"
but I assured him I would put some of up the
boys as well. Anyway, I was pretty excited!!

Who thinks Simon is HOT?

2007-05-03T10:29:00.000-06:00

I do! (It's okay, my husband knows this)
I am just interested in other people's comments. Am I twisted? I hate how he dresses, though.

I admit it...I'm "Vein"

2007-04-30T10:39:00.000-06:00

A few months ago, AC decided to buy a $600 rifle without telling me. (bad boy!) So I thought...hmmm. What can I do for MYSELF that is a little out of the ordinary. Since a boob job was way too expensive and I don't REALLY need one anyway (although AC may argue) I decided to check into Sclera Therapy which would take care of the awful spider veins that have invaded my legs with every pregnancy. I decided (with his permission) to have it done. It was pretty yucky to sit there for 30 min and have hundreds of shots injected into my legs but I thought it would be VERY worth it. The worst part, as some of my friends knew, was wearing these awful, TIGHT, ITCHY compression hose for a WEEK after. I had 2 seperate treatments which meant I had to have the exact yucky procedure done twice within a couple of month period. I just kept thinking this would be worth it since I would have new "vein free" legs. Especially in time for our trip to Hawaii with the kids. Well, other than a lot of bruising, I wasn't noticing much difference throughout the months and was getting a little nervous. I went in last week for my follow-up and the Dr. said hmmmm....it doesn't look like too much change, huh? I wanted to cry since I had spent $600 on NOTHING. He said in 90% cases they have great results but EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE they don't. Well, just my luck to part of that 10%. He told me I would probably need a couple more treatments. I am in a dilema and that is my reason for sharing this with you. Should I spend MORE $ and go through more pain to get results. At least my $600 would go towards something or should I just accept my yucky legs and quit being so "VEIN"?

I am a Lonely Blogger

2007-04-25T09:34:00.000-06:00

I am feeling kind of lonely in the blogging world. I don't even know if ANYONE will read this since I only have 2 people on my list and one of them is my sister who I talk to anyway. Maybe I am just feeling sorry for myself because nobody is looking at my blog or commenting on my blog. I get up everyday excited to check out my blog to see if ANYONE has commented and I am disappointed over and over again. I am deciding that this blogging thing isn't all it's cracked up to be unless you are a part of AMY's world. I am on the outside looking in. BOO HOO!!!

I am actually TOTALLY kidding. I am just trying to gain sympathy comments! Afterall, those are better than NO COMMENTS AT ALL!!!!