ferrin family

What I Would Pay...

2011-10-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

I was heading to bed last night and passed by something that caught my eye. The house was quiet, my mind was clear, and this sight just stopped me in my tracks. It was Ashlee's Book of Mormon, the same one she's had for about ten years now. I've seen it a million times, I've picked it up when it was left where it shouldn't be, I've returned it to her room, I've set it on the shelf... but this time I just had to hold it and look at it for a minute. And then, of course, I had to get the camera.

These scriptures have been used and abused. I know that some of their wear and tear has come from their accidentally being dropped or maybe even sat on, but the pages are worn because the book has actually been opened and read. This book wouldn't look this way if it were sitting on a shelf, remaining untouched. And for that I am so grateful.

I'm grateful for Primary teachers, Sunday School teachers, Young Women leaders, and seminary teachers who have taught her to use them, to mark them, to love them. And I'm grateful for a Heavenly Father who has blessed her to feel her own witness that the words contained in this book are true. When these scriptures were purchased years ago, I hoped and prayed that they would be loved and put to use. And last night I was reminded that they have been. As I stood there looking at them, in a way I never quite had before, the thought went through my mind, I would pay for these a thousand times over, to know that they're being used. If any of our kids ever manages to wear their scriptures out so badly that they need new ones, I'll have that purchase made before they can even blink--one of few cases in which I would be thrilled to reward my children for wearing something out.

And then of course this thought popped into my head:

First set of scriptures                                  $73.95
Second set of scriptures                            $73.95
Third, fourth, fifth set of scriptures         $73.95
Knowing they're being used.....                Priceless =)

This is the Night We've Waited For!!!

2011-10-05T11:57:00.000-07:00

I was organizing some pictures and came across a few that I've taken over the years during Family Home Evenings. We've definitely had our share of family nights during which the "Bedlamites" were out of control, and it seemed that our efforts were in vain. But pushing through the not-so-inspiring FHE's has paid off, and we now have many wonderful memories of spiritual as well as fun evenings spent together. We seldom reach the end of the night wondering--as we used to years ago--if our time or energy has been wasted. And the kids truly do look forward to each Monday as "the night we've waited for." As the Primary song says,

This is the night we've waited for;
Always a treat we have in store,
We love each other more and more
With every family night.
Stories and games for everyone,
Learning the gospel can be fun,
Father and mother, daughter, son,
Together on family night!

These pictures from 2008 are some of my favorites. One night, as we played one of our favorite games, "Don't Eat Pete," Chase kept shocking everyone as he cleared the game board without eating Pete! I love looking at these pictures, and the kids' smiles as Chase kept managing to avoid Pete... The suspense is killer!!! =)

The first chocolate chip... Safe!!!

...And safe again!

Safe again... and again... and again... They can't believe it!

All the way down to the last chocolate chip!!! Incredible!!! =)

Everyone is hysterical over Chase's triumphant round of "Don't Eat Pete" - and of course Chase is thrilled with both his success and his tummy-full of chocolate chips! =)

Another night we played a game to see how well we know our family members--by their noses =) We've also played this with hands, feet, and by a kiss on the cheek. (I have to say that the older boys weren't too excited about kissing each other on the cheek, but it made for some laughs! Too bad we didn't have the camera out then!) =)

I'm not sure if this one was an actual "Family Night" or just a time when we made cookies... but we all know that no FHE is complete without treats of some sort! So this is a favorite picture at our house.

When we hang it in our world-famous family art museum someday, we'll title it:

"Kids Waiting for Cookies" =)

This was our first FHE after Chase was born. With our family officially complete, I decided I wanted to take this picture. I don't know why, and Rob thought it was a silly idea, but I'm grateful that he humored me and participated.

This one wasn't taken during FHE, but was an opportunity to put a FHE lesson into practice: Forgiveness. This picture was taken after Emmee dropped and broke Ashlee's porcelain unicorn, which was very special to her. Tears were shed by both. We took a picture so we'd at least have that to remember it...

This was a "family talent show." Rob wouldn't consider the accordion to be one of his talents, but he was willing to give it a try! It's all just about having fun, right?!?

The kids always love to help by holding up the pictures during stories. (And it helps keep them from jumping around, somersaulting, fighting, etc., through the lesson!) =)

Of course decorating for Christmas is always a favorite FHE activity!

Even though our Family Home Evening pictures are relatively few, they're a reminder to me of my gratitude for inspired leaders, who realized--60+ years ago--the importance of families setting aside a night to gather and learn together. Sometimes the most important lesson of all is simply remembering how much we enjoy each other. The small moments may not seem to amount to much, but as they all add up they create unbreakable bonds that will keep us close throughout eternity.

A Time for Reflection

2011-09-24T22:55:00.000-07:00

Today I was in the kitchen, busy with preparations for the RS Broadcast dinner. Ashlee was in the other room, playing the piano, and she had chosen to play from a "Sound of Music" collection. As she began playing "Climb Every Mountain" the words started through my head, and it related so much to my thoughts about her and her life lately:

Climb every mountain

Search high and low

Follow every byway

Every path you know

Climb every mountain
Ford every stream
Follow every rainbow
Till you find your dream

A dream that will need
All the love you can give
Every day of your life
For as long as you live

Climb every mountain
Ford every stream
Follow every rainbow
Till you find your dream

She's in her last year of high school, with so many decisions and so much excitement coming in her near future. She definitely has some mountains to climb, some paths to follow, and some dreams to pursue. We don't know any of the details yet--the order in which it will all take place, which experiences will be the hardest, which will be the most fun, which will bring the most growth...

She might find some of her dreams relatively easily. Others might take a lifetime of effort yet still be unrealized. As her mom, how am I going to handle watching it all unfold? In some ways I can't wait and I'm filled with excitement for her. In other ways, I'm terrified, sad, and find myself wondering where the time went. I think back to the days right after we brought her home from the hospital, when I just held her and stared at her and couldn't believe she was really mine. I think of that time in our lives and I just want to start all over and raise her again--she's been such a joy.

Every time she plays the piano I'm reminded how much I'm going to miss those sounds when she's gone from our home. As I stood there today, listening to the music, thinking of her future and how terribly I'll miss her, it felt like one of those moments when time stops. It was such an interesting combination of emotions--I love hearing her play the piano and I just soak it in whenever she does, but as she played this particular song the words began to play in my mind, which brought a lot of reflection and then, of course, some sadness.

I know it is what it is. Children grow up. Things change. Life moves on.

I know her dreams will come true. I know she'll have wonderful opportunities, beyond anything any of us can imagine now. She has blessings awaiting her that will continue into the eternities. I know she'll climb the mountains to get there, I know it will be amazing, and I know through it all, no matter where she goes, I'll still be her mom. So it's all ok............

(Right???)

=)

... I Had a Mother Who Read to Me

2011-03-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

THE READING MOTHER
Strickland Gillilan

I had a mother who read to me
Sagas of pirates who scoured the sea,
Cutlasses clenched in their yellow teeth,
"Blackbirds" stowed in the hold beneath

I had a Mother who read me lays
Of ancient and gallant and golden days;
Stories of Marmion and Ivanhoe,
Which every boy has a right to know.

I had a Mother who read me tales
Of Celert the hound of the hills of Wales,
True to his trust till his tragic death,
Faithfulness blent with his final breath.

I had a Mother who read me the things
That wholesome life to the boy heart brings-
Stories that stir with an upward touch,
Oh, that each mother of boys were such.

You may have tangible wealth untold;
Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold.
Richer than I you can never be --
I had a Mother who read to me.

President Monson has quoted this well-known poem in Conference talks.

President Benson listed, "Read to your children" as one of his ten most important pieces of advice for mothers.

And I know other Church leaders have also addressed the importance of reading to children.

As our family has applied this advice, I understand why. And I'm so, so grateful for wise parents and leaders who instilled in me a love for good books. We still don't put this into practice as often as I would like to--my choice would be every night at bedtime. But with teenagers going every direction and so many things pulling at our time, it just doesn't always happen. (And NO, teenagers are not exempt from joining the family as I read to everyone.) Sometimes we finish one book and [I] get distracted and don't find another to start right away. So I'm going to keep a running list of good suggestions--for myself, as well as for anyone else who's interested. Sometimes it seems like a challenge to find a book that ages 5-17 will enjoy, and I have to admit, this has held me back at times from putting forth the effort. But I've realized that it's really not that hard. Sometimes a book will interest the older kids more, which just means the younger ones will play around on the floor more as they listen. That's fine. And the books that captivate the little ones will bring out that inner child in the older ones--who grew up a little too fast anyway, in my opinion!!! =) Basically, I've found that if it interests me it will interest all of them. It's really not so hard!!!

Here's a short list to start with. I'll add more as I think of them:

The Miracle of Miss Willie, by Alma J. Yates
The Little Britches series, by Ralph Moody
The Little House Books, by Laura Ingalls Wilder
The Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle series, by Betty MacDonald
That Quail, Robert, by Margaret Stanger
Where the Red Fern Grows, by Wilson Rawls
Goodnight Mister Tom, by Michelle Magorian

Our oldest could potentially be leaving home in just 18 months, and it makes me sad to look back on the times we haven't been involved together in a good book. Reading together is truly the frosting on the cake, the cherry on the sundae, the sauce over the noodles... =) Maybe I'm hungry... =) Anyway, it's motherhood at its best!!!

Dinnertime Humor

2011-02-18T23:10:00.000-08:00

A couple nights ago, during dinner, Chase didn't want to eat his salad. Everyone knew there was cake for dessert, so when Chase said he had just eaten two bites of salad, Rob told him that he could have two bites of cake. Chase then said, in all seriousness, "Actually, I'm gonna eat 16 bites of salad." =)

Turkey Waddle

2010-11-25T21:35:00.000-08:00

Our Thanksgiving Day this year began with the Turkey Waddle, which was organized to benefit Breanna Peña, a girl in our ward fighting leukemia.
With Rob and our older boys gone hunting, and Ashlee doing her own thing, the younger kids and I represented the family for the event. I thought this would be a simple task, as I would be walking, going slow, to wait for the little kids--no big deal. Well, was I in for a surprise! When the race started, apparently Chase had made it his personal goal to stay ahead of me and the girls. Not only were we not walking, sometimes Chase had me full-out running to try to catch him! He brought lots of smiles to people as he passed them, especially since he was wearing a black leather jacket. =) We wished we had made him a shirt that said something like, "You just got passed by a little dude!"
It was a great experience to be there with members of our ward/stake/community, to support the Peña family. A perfect start to our Thanksgiving Day!

Baptism Day

2010-11-20T21:35:00.000-08:00

This was Kaybree's special day, a day she'd been looking forward to for years.

Our family is so blessed by such good men who hold the Priesthood...
... and wonderful family and friends who show their support and come to every event.

Kaybree is so blessed to have a daddy who holds the Priesthood and can baptize her.

Kaybree loves the song "When I Am Baptized":

I like to look for rainbows whenever there is rain,

And ponder on the beauty of an earth made clean again,

I want my life to be as clean as earth right after rain,

I want to be the best I can, and live with God again.

I know when I am baptized my wrongs are washed away,

And I can be forgiven and improve myself each day,

I want my life to be as clean as earth right after rain,

I want to be the best I can, and live with God again.

So we made her a rainbow cake for her special day:

In keeping with tradition, Grandma Nelson made Kaybree a very special quilt, with fabric chosen by Kaybree herself.

To make sure the morning didn't go TOO smoothly, Blake injured his nose just before it was time for us all to get ready for the baptism. It happened while he & Spencer were on the trampoline. Somehow he hit his nose on Spencer's behind! We've teased Spencer ever since, for having "buns of steel." =)

This is how it looked by the evening. What a mug shot! =)

Kaybree's baptism day also happened to be Blake's birthday, so all afternoon and evening was one big party!!!!!!!!!!!

Kaybree requested party subs from Krazy Sub--always a favorite!

The girls played 4-square with Tucker while the boys partied with their friends.

How many boys can be on a trampoline before it will break? Apparently more than this, cuz it survived!

Blake requested the famous Watermelon Bomb cake, a Ferrin Family tradition started by Aunt Shari years ago for the 4th of July. Not sure it's as fitting for November... but it was a hit!

Everyone enjoying their slices of "watermelon":

What is it about watching kids sit around the table together and laugh their heads off? One of my all-time favorite activities! =)

Ashlee, Tucker, & I played Quelf, the most randomly ridiculous game ever!

And a game of Cops & Robbers is the perfect way to end a great day!

2010-11-10T07:44:00.000-08:00

I'm not gonna take the time right now to write a new post, so for today (okay, for this month...) I'm just reposting an old one that brings me smiles every time I look at it:

http://robferrinfamily.blogspot.com/2008/12/arizona-christmas.html

2010-10-30T23:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight I'm reminded of a simple (and all-too-rare) occurrence that brings me joy: Putting clean children to bed on clean sheets. I wish it could happen every night!!! Oh, I could just lay right next to them for hours, smelling their scrumptious, soft hair, and then smelling their fresh sheets--alternating back and forth til I fell asleep.

For a brief moment I feel like everything is clean and that I'm a really good mom. (And then I walk out into the rest of the house...) =)

I know I'm a big goofball, but it really doesn't take much to bring a smile to my face. And sometimes I just have to share!

To My Sweet Friends (but not to imply that my other friends aren't sweet...) ;-)

2010-09-17T19:27:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I just decided to share a reflective moment of humor a few days ago, and suddenly THE TROOPS have come out to save me from my perceived self-deprecation. Oh you guys... I don't even know what to do with all these comments! You are all so sweet to try to make me feel better. I really was just trying to share some humor about myself--and possibly make anyone reading it feel better (since that's what I'm here for). =) I really should email all of you individually...

Anyway, you guys really are great friends.

Jessica, anyone who can handle having 6 children under age 8 HAS IT TOGETHER! I honestly can't even imagine...

And Wendy... you've always seemed to have a "what really matters" perspective on things--you teach me something valuable every time I'm around you. Thank you for the reminders. =)

Shari... I've figured out YOUR life's mission: You must have signed up to be my cheerleader. You always make me sound much better than reality! I'm so glad to be in a family who knows me so well and loves me anyway. Please don't tell people how much I pay you. =) Seriously, though, you're so great at giving others a boost when they need it! Thanks for being such a great sis-in-law!!!

Crissie, you're so sweet, and I'm glad the story went over well. =)

Crystal, you have a newborn, for crying out loud!!! (I really didn't do that on purpose--but I'm leaving it now, since it fits so well... although your little one is so sweet, she probably never cries.) Anyway, your home is supposed to be upside-down when you have a new little one! I don't know what mack truck you were talking about--your home looked like a perfect place for a family to be comfortable and happy. I should tell you that I feel the Spirit every time I'm in your home. I really do. I'm glad you felt loved and cared for--because you are!!!

And Melody... I truly miss our Primary days. You guys were always so patient with me! Thanks for overlooking so much and teaching me more than I could ever put into words. I love your quiet, humble, yet so capable way! I really miss you!!! =(

I have the greatest friends and family!!!!!!! But please don't think you have to tell me I'm wonderful every time I feel the need for some honest reflection. It will wear you out!!! ;-)

I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!!!!

Passing Along the Joy

2010-09-15T10:14:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd pass along a couple of good book suggestions. Awhile back I read these books to my kiddos, and we had some really great times in the process. Over the summer we read Goodnight Mister Tom, by Michelle Magorian, and before that we finished The Miracle of Miss Willie, by Alma J. Yates. My goal is to always be in the middle of a good book with them--but I fall far short of that. I don't know why I don't make it happen every night, since I love it so much! These moments are what mommyhood is all about!
Anyway, these books are SO GREAT--we laughed, cried, and had lots of discussion on topics that never would have come up otherwise. The reason these two books were especially good were that my older kids liked them. The younger ones are always up for a story, but the older ones often have homework or other activities going on, and have to be "persuaded" (and yes, sometimes forced) to sit down and listen. My kids know that one of my rules is that "you're never too old to be read to."
As is often the case, the first few times we opened these books the older kids grumbled and said they didn't have time. I have to admit that even I questioned myself a couple of times as I made them join us, knowing they really did have homework that was going to keep them up late. Sometimes I just told them to work on their homework while I read. I was only asking for 10 or 15 minutes--and I knew it could possibly be the most worthwhile few minutes of their day.
We didn't have to get too far into either book before we began to see some changes in attitude. The kids were gathering faster than they had at first. We had comments like, "Don't read Miss Willie while I'm gone!" as they headed out the door to mutual. And my favorite was one night when we started reading Mr. Tom and Ashlee popped her head up (from her pillow) and said, "What's going on?!?" (She had fallen asleep during the story the night before.) The other kids started filling her in on what she had missed. They were all trying to talk at once, and Ashlee was just as caught up in listening to them as I've ever seen her watching American Idol. By the time they finished telling her about what she had missed she was sitting up, ready for the next chapter. Actually, my ultimate favorite attitude change was the one that happened in Rob. He's always been a TV kind of guy--(why spend days or weeks reading a book when you can watch the movie in 2 hours?) But after overhearing us a few times he actually started joining us, especially toward the ends of the books--and even doing the reading some nights!
There's nothing quite like the excitement of a good book--and reading as a family just makes it 100x better! I can't wait to find our next good read! Any suggestions???
Oh, one more I just thought about: That Quail, Robert, by Margaret Stanger, is a really great book for all ages too. Especially for animal lovers! Your kids will start begging you for a "Robert."
Goodnight Mr. Tom has some hard issues in it, so if you're concerned you can pre-read it before reading it with your kids. And FYI--you'll need tissues for these ones...

My Life's Mission

2010-09-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

Someday I'll write another post that includes pictures. But not today. =)

This title might have led you to believe that this would possibly be a deep and uplifting post. If that's what you're hoping for, you might want to look at someone else's blog this time--I'm in more of a silly mood today. =) My thoughts are real, and I mean what I'm going to say, but there's a lot of humor to be found in all of this as well.

I discovered my life's mission years ago. At first I wasn't too thrilled about it, because it required me to go through many, many humbling moments. But once I came to grips with it I decided I could and should go ahead and embrace it. Some of my friends have already heard me say it, so I'm going ahead and sharing it publicly:

I was put on this earth to make other people feel better.

It's true, and I've proven it time and time again.

If your house is a mess, come over to mine. You'll leave feeling better. Guaranteed.

If your child's hair hasn't been combed yet today, I can top your story.

If you arrive late to a function, you can count on me to be just a few minutes behind you.

If you made a stupid comment that is horribly embarrassing to think about, give me a couple hours of your time and I'll share a few of mine with you. Maybe I'll just go ahead and post them sometime, for the whole world to enjoy....? =)

I could go on and on with examples, but what it comes down to is:

I'm perpetually a day late and a dollar short.

per·pet·u·al (pr-pch-l)

adj.

1. Lasting for eternity.

2. Continuing or lasting for an indefinitely long time.

(Just decided to throw a quick definition in) =)

I've worked my whole life to try to dig my way out of being the way I am. I've read books, I've devised new strategies, I've prayed, I've tried to try harder. Sometimes I can "get it together" for a day or two--even up to a week!--but sooner or later I'm back to the same old me.

But just this morning a friend called me and said she just needed to talk to me because I always make her feel better. She said she can always relate to me. And I was reminded about my life's mission, and the fact that, in all my moments of embarrassment and even deep humiliation, I've had opportunities to make others feel better. I really think that I'm one person no one has to feel intimidated by. And maybe in all my struggles there's a hidden gift underneath it all, that has given me the ability to relate to the things others are dealing with. I have no room to ever judge other people who can't seem to "get it together." And I hope that they feel that, and know that I understand.

So for today I'm reminded that I need to embrace what I've been given, and to view it from a different angle. For me, life will probably never consist of looking my best, being organized, saying all the right things in just the right ways, and inspiring others to want to be like me. Instead it will be a series of opportunities to show others that life is about continuing to try, and that a perpetual ;-) sinkful of dishes doesn't mean you can't still have fun.

So the next time you need to feel better, give me a call. I'll have a story ready for you! =)

Murmur, Murmur, Murmur

2010-09-08T09:23:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago we were gathering at the table for dinner one night, and as the kids sat down, one by one, the comments started: "What is this?" "Why does it look like that?" "I like it with more sauce." "Why didn't you keep the noodles separate?" I don't know if everyone was lacking sleep or what, but the grumbling was unbelievable!

Just as a rude comment was developing in my mind, Chase said, "Well, it's better than nothing!"

The laughter got us all through the moment, and--miracle of miracles--everyone even survived eating the sub-par meal!!! In fact, by the end a couple of them even called it "yummy."

Thank goodness for five-year-olds to bring us all back to reality and help us remember how much everyday life requires a sense of humor.

;-)

2010-09-06T06:34:00.000-07:00

Just have to post a conversation that took place in the car the other day:

Kaybree (in a sad tone): Mom, are we REALLY not going to have any more babies?

Me: Yeah, I'm pretty sure we're not having any more babies.

Emmalee: Oh, that's so sad.

Chase (in a very serious tone): Mom, ALL I've EVER wanted was a baby, or a Webkinz.

(Maybe it's just me, but one of those choices sounds much easier than the other!) ;-)

I Know I Don't Belong

2010-08-27T12:45:00.000-07:00

Since the whole point of this post is to state some ways in which I don't relate to others very well, I don't expect that many people will see things the way I do. But it's part of who I am, so I'm going to post my thoughts while they're on my mind.
I've spent a good portion of my life feeling like I don't belong. But it's especially evident to me in certain situations. The example I'll use to illustrate is a baby shower, since I'm usually uncomfortable and "out of place" when I attend one.
Of course I can usually find someone to chat with, but the main conversations I'm overhearing are about all the adorable baby clothes, how to make the cutest hair ribbons, how boys aren't as fun to buy for as girls, epidurals, doctors, what the greatest new bottles are, what color/theme the nursery is or is going to be, etc...
I know all those things are fun and interesting to talk about, and I've had my share of these conversations. But I can't shut off the "deep thinking" part of me that wants so badly to sit down with the new-mom-to-be and talk about the amazing adventure she's about to embark on. I want her to know that she is about to be given the greatest privilege and responsibility that can ever be given a woman; that this new life is not just a plaything to dress up in cute frills and bows, it's a person whose very character will be shaped and molded by her daily decisions. I want to tell her to cuddle this sweet baby as much as she possibly can, that he's going to grow up faster than she can imagine. I want to tell her what a difference it makes to breastfeed, and to keep it going as long as she can. I want to tell her to have a library for this little one, to read to him everyday, and not to rush through the process--to stay on his favorite page and talk about it for 5 minutes if that's what he wants to do. I want to tell her not to overschedule him, to let him be a child and play like children should. He doesn't need to be in a bunch of structured activities; build a sandpile in the back yard for him and let him do what little boys do. Let him wear inexpensive clothes so you're not tempted to tell him not to get dirty; little boys (and girls) were meant to get dirty. Play marbles with him, play dolls with her. Make play dough. Most of all, I want to make sure she knows that she is the one who has been chosen by God to be this baby's mother--now and into eternity. I want to tell her not to be tempted to send this baby here and there while she enjoys some "me time." Teaching moments aren't often planned--they happen as parents spend time with their children; don't be deceived into thinking that "quality" time can replace quantity. I want to tell her something that President Benson said to mothers: "Mothers, you are your children's best teacher. Don't shift this precious responsibility to day-care centers or babysitters. A mother's love and prayerful concern for her children are her most important ingredients in teaching her own."

Now, I don't believe that dressing children in cute clothes or making hair bows are bad things to do--we all have fun with those kinds of things. But a mother who is constantly running to clothing sales and new boutiques, worrying that her baby's wardrobe is outdated or that the nursery needs a new paint color, may have lost her focus on what is truly important. When this life is over, ALL of us will be outdated, and we'll all come to the reality that we either focused on what was important or we didn't. Period.

Well, this is a small glimpse into the workings of my brain. Yes, it's terrifying. ;-) But the fact is, I've lived long enough to realize how quickly life really goes by, and how critical it is that we learn, early-on, what matters. And, knowing that, I can't spend a lot of time thinking about "fufu" stuff. I'm constantly analyzing life, sorting out the portions that are of an eternal nature, and trying my best to toss the rest aside. Sometimes I decide I'm too obsessive, but other times I'm reminded of Conference talks where words like "diligence," "perseverance," or "steadfast and immovable" are used, and I decide that maybe diligence in keeping an eternal perspective requires just a bit of OCD. =)

Sometimes it's not just at baby showers that I feel I don't belong. Sometimes it's just in this world in general. I thought I was the only person who ever felt that way, until I heard someone call those feelings, "Heavenly Homesickness." Tears came to my eyes as I realized that other people also had feelings of "not belonging" in this world. Sometimes I really do get homesick to return to my Heavenly Father, to be in a place where everything is important and no "fufu" exists; where everyone is in the business of teaching, of saving souls, of loving and improving.

I know right now I don't belong, but I also have faith that someday I will.

Happy Birthday, Honey!!!

2010-08-14T16:34:00.000-07:00

Well, my main man is a whoppin' 38 years old today!!! So it's time to take a moment and reflect on all the things I love about him. I'm sure I could think of hundreds, but I'll go for my 38 favorites (in no particular order):

1.) He's a great listener.
2.) He's a wonderful husband--he always has my needs and wishes in mind.
3.) He's an amazing father, always finding new and creative ways to approach raising our family.
4.) He provides for us and is committed to keeping me home with our kids.
5.) He can get straight to the point, yet has a sensitive side.
6.) He has wisdom far beyond his years.
7.) He is very practical.
8.) He thinks things through.
9.) He's patient--especially with me!
10.) He keeps our family up-to-date. (If it weren't for him, we'd still be using my computer from college... Internet??? What's Internet???) =)
11.) He's a hard, fast worker.
12.) He's smart--can figure out anything.
13.) He's a great handyman--can fix/install/redo everything around the house.
14.) He's as loyal as a puppydog (and has the puppydog eyes to go with it)!
15.) He's strong--in every way.
16.) He has super-sexy arms & legs--so muscular & defined! It's that tennis player in him! ;-)
17.) He's a worthy Priesthood holder (wow--I just went from "sexy" to my eyes tearing up...)
18.) He knows just what to say when I need advice.
19.) He's a unique combination of shy and intimidating.
20.) He makes me laugh every day.
21.) He's opposite of me in all the right ways.
22.) He loves me unconditionally, in spite of my shortcomings.
23.) He's the perfect man for me!!!

From the kids:

24.) He cares about us. (Emmee)
25.) He's funny. (Kaybree)
26.) He has good discipline. (Spencer)
27.) He doesn't cry. (Ashlee)
28.) He teaches us how to work hard. (Blake)
29.) He wrestles with me. (Chase)
30.) He always knows what to do. (Spencer)
31.) He's really nice. (Emmee)
32.) He loves spending time with our family. (Blake)
33.) He makes us strong. (Kaybree--thinking of arm circles... I'll have to post about that sometime) =)
34.) It's hard to get him to change his mind. (Spencer)
35.) He loves us. (Emmee)
36.) He watches kid shows with us. (Kaybree)
37.) He always makes everything fun. (Blake)
38.) On the couch he lays with me. (Chase)

This was our morning. We had french toast, made by Emmee, then gave Dad his gifts:

Chase's gift was a drawing, folded carefully and put into a "Cars" gift bag.

Emmee's card got a smile out of him too.

After he finished opening gifts it seems he & Blake decided his birthday just wouldn't be complete without... wrestling???

(In case you're wondering, Blake still had his jammers on from his morning swim practice.)

After pinning Blake quickly, he must have felt a bit bad. It was time for a brief teaching moment.

But, sadly, the results were the same... We'll give Blake a few years and see if anything changes. ;-) Or maybe Blake was just being nice to his old man, since it was his birthday and all... =)

Happy Birthday, Honey! We love you!!!

Tired Boys Don't Make Trouble

2010-08-14T16:17:00.000-07:00

I've been told that Rob's dad's motto while they raised their family was, "Tired boys don't make trouble." He took his sons to work with him (doing A/C) from the time they were about 11 years old, and apparently wearing them out that way was a pretty good approach!
Well, Blake and Spencer have gone to work with Rob several times recently, and they're learning what it feels like to hang out on a hot roof when it's 115 degrees outside, or to spend a few hours in an attic where the air doesn't circulate and the temperature can reach 130+. When they come home from a day with Dad, they have a much greater appreciation for a lot of things! (But I have to add, they still want to go again whenever he asks, which says a lot about how much they enjoy being with him!!!)
Blake has also recently started swimming as a Freshman. (Go, QCHS!) He has practice 6 days a week and gets some pretty good workouts. He's not one to usually nap, unless it's by force--so when I caught him dozing this afternoon I had to grab the camera. Looks like we're on the path to carrying on the tradition of Grandpa's motto--whether through work or through sports, we'll wear these boys out!

Poor, Deprived Child

2010-07-09T16:46:00.001-07:00

A couple nights ago Chase was in the car with me and he asked, "Mom, is Disneyland a real place?" (He actually has been there--he may have been 2 years old, but he's been there!) Anyway, I told him that yes, it is a real place and that sometime we'll take him there. Then he said, "Or we could go to Skateland." (He got to go there once, and apparently in his mind there's little difference between the two!) Then he said, "I think that's the only LAND I've been to!" =)

Cracked me up!!!

Well, there are definitely worse things than a 5 year old never having been to Disneyland, but I'm thinking when the money tree grows in the backyard maybe we'll head to California. He'd probably decide then that there's a difference between Disneyland and Skateland. =)

It's a PAC Night!

2010-06-14T14:55:00.000-07:00

Cub Scout Pack Night? Nope--no cub scouts in this family for awhile. Heading to the Performing Arts Center??? No, not that either. This P-A-C stands for Pick A Can!!! This is what I resort to when life gets overwhelming, or in this case, when half the family is away and my choice is clearly NOT to fix dinner. We all head to the pantry and the kids know anything goes (well, within reason...)!
Hormel Chili is a common choice. Fruit is also popular, although not exactly a "dinner." Often two kids will collaborate and each take half a can of fruit and half a can of chili... or whatever...
Easy prep. Easy clean-up. Ecstatic children, because they don't get these "luxuries" very often. And a happy mama who enjoys the break.
Just passing along a little survival tip! =)

Oh, What Do You Do in the Summertime?

2010-06-01T20:35:00.000-07:00

So, have you ever played air hockey with pretzels and salt shakers? Me neither... but when it's hot outside and kids start looking for things to do indoors, they can get quite creative! =)

We also played Twister today, in spite of the fact that [Chase informed us], "our spinner thing that goes 'Bhoonk' went 'Dhoonk'!" With the help of hand signals (the "Bhoonk" being the flipping of the spinner and the "Dhoonk" being the spinner falling off), we understood this to mean that our spinner was broken. =) So, again, creativity came into action. Blake hopped online and found a virtual spinner! (Oh, the amazing Internet!) If that hadn't worked, we also had a plan for using dice.

While we were playing Twister, Chase was of course our additional entertainment. Several times as the directions were called out, he would realize the difficulty of the move he was gonna have to make and declare, "You're killin' me, Smalls!"

He and Spencer were the last two going for quite awhile. At one point he commented on the new position they were in, "We're like lilyfrogs!" Somehow he must have had frogs and lilypads in mind... and he knew they went together...??? =)

The boys also built a fort (and we all know a summer is just not complete without a fort!) They were kind enough to let the girls come in for a look around, but of course when it comes time to sleep in it tonight it will officially be declared, "Boys Only!"

Last but not least, summer just isn't summer without sweet, juicy, messy-as-can-be peaches!!! Yummmmmmmm!!!

So we officially declare our summer off to a great start!

Nothing Going On

2010-05-14T06:10:00.000-07:00

This is a bit of a strange post to write, considering that we've had SO MUCH going on that I haven't even posted in awhile. Someday I hope to figure out the balance between living life and recording it. Both are important, yet can't very easily be done at the same time...

As I exercised this morning with my friend, Ginger, we shared some of our "mom feelings" about home life, specifically about family time. Of course Monday nights are SACRED; we count on having that. But there are other times that often need just as much priority, yet are very lacking in structure (at least at my house).

It may be that little while when the kids have just gotten home from school. Or it might be a Saturday morning when the calendar is actually blank. What defines these times isn't exactly clear, but as a mom I sometimes get a strong urge to lock my doors, unplug the phone, and simply "be together," for whatever amount of time it can last.

It might not even be that we actually gather for a meal, or gather at all. To a fly on the wall it would appear that there is "nothing going on." But in my eyes countless things are taking place.

In one corner of the couch two kids are talking about something that happened at school. Another child might be sitting quietly, working on homework. Another is scaling the kitchen in search of a snack, which he will then take to the table for a moment of much-needed "down time." (He'll likely be joined by at least one other soon.) On the floor a smaller one might play with blocks. Someone might go sit at the piano and play a song... And it's quite likely that, somewhere in there, at least one teaching moment will occur.

Of course the two on the couch might find something to argue about--but they'll work it out. The one doing homework might get distracted and off-task. The snacker(s) might come, begging and pleading, to ask for something not-so-healthy. And the blocks will be scattered across the room.

So what makes this time so important? Which of these activities could we absolutely not have lived without? Should this time be more "structured" and "productive"???

Well, no two days are exactly the same. Teaching moments occur spontaneously, and sometimes the lessons are simple: Relax. Sit for a bit. Enjoy each other.

As a mom these times are ones I soak up. When my kids are grown and gone I know I will have fond memories of these rare times when we had "nothing going on."

Something as simple as the TV being turned on, or a neighbor friend coming over to play, can change the whole dynamics--which makes these moments even fewer and farther between, and therefore even more cherished.

While these thoughts were on my mind I wanted to jot them down. Thanks to Ginger, I know there's at least one other mom who feels this way.

But I also need to get off the computer, since I'll soon have nothing going on. ;-)

Special Firsts

2010-05-02T15:42:00.000-07:00

Spencer has recently experienced two new "Firsts" in his life, and it was extra-special that they both took place during trips to St. George, Utah. He turned twelve in December, so April 3rd was his first time attending the Priesthood Session of Conference. Since we were on a trip and therefore had only one car, we drove around the town until we found a church building where people were going inside. The girls and I (and Chase) dropped our men off and smiled as we watched the three of them walk in together. Spencer was so excited for his first General Priesthood meeting.

Sitting there in the parking lot I couldn't help noticing the colors in some of the trees. I don't ever remember seeing colors like this all together in the same tree before. I had to get a picture! Now tell me that doesn't look like General Conference!!! =)

The second "First" Spencer got to experience was doing Baptisms for the Dead in the St. George Temple. On April 29th we headed back up for Rob's Ironman, so the day before the race we took our three oldest into the baptistry to do some temple work. Spencer was beside himself with excitement!!!
Since our younger ones weren't old enough to go inside, Rob and I traded off: I went in with the older ones and did some confirmations while Rob walked around outside with the others; then he went in to perform the baptisms and I took the little ones to the Visitor's Center. We were reminded that this temple is the one in which the Founding Fathers appeared to Wilford Woodruff. I know that story is one reason this temple is one of my very favorites.

I hope Spencer will always remember these "Firsts," and the special feelings there.
Great memories!!!

Reality

2010-04-04T14:43:00.000-07:00

Our trip to St. George was very wonderful and spiritual--centered around General Conference, Easter, and the beautiful temple right down the street. We loved watching Conference in our hotel room, sitting on the beds, all together in a small space, soaking in the goodness of the inspired messages. In-between sessions we'd go down to the pool, get lunch, or walk around the temple grounds. It was such a great weekend.

Of course besides the special, spiritual experiences of the weekend, we were, nonetheless, still us; fortunately or unfortunately, there's no escaping that. So as much as I don't want to detract from our experiences at the temple (therefore I'm making this a completely separate post) the reality of it all requires me to also include some of the not-so-spiritual aspects of our trip, like:

Blake super-gluing his finger & thumb together... (not one of the most brilliant activities he's found to do for fun). These are his attempts at pulling with all his might to get them apart:

There was also the training, of course (the initial reason for the trip). On Friday Rob took Blake and then Spencer along as he ran the course. In the Ironman this 13-mile course is run twice, but for today's training once was sufficient. So each boy ran 6 1/2 miles with Papa. (Only got pics of Spencer though...)

We also went through Colorado City on our way home, and took the opportunity to observe the lifestyle of the polygamists. Very interesting. And we saw an old Hopi Indian Village that dates back several hundred years and is still occupied.

Last but not least, a family trip would not be complete without some level of teasing/terrorizing. Somewhere around Colorado City, the boys needed a pit stop. Just as they got out of the car and "got going," Rob drove just far enough away to expose them to all the highway passersby.

Here they go... ;-)

Their shock as they realized we weren't hiding them anymore...

Blake finishing up quickly...

And heading back to the privacy of the car... And finally Spencer gets outta there!

Thank goodness they're such good sports!!!

As We Touch the Temple...

2010-04-04T13:54:00.000-07:00

We spent General Conference weekend in St. George. Rob wanted to practice on location for his upcoming Ironman, and Conference weekend was the perfect time to go: The kids were out of school for Good Friday, we didn't have to take care of our usual Sunday responsibilities... and the fact that it was Easter weekend was just frosting on the cake!

As we found our way around this beautiful town all weekend, we often quoted, "You are never lost when you can see the temple." No matter where we went in St. George, we could almost always see the temple. It really impressed upon us the feeling of surety that came with knowing that the temple--our source of guidance and direction--was always within view.

"As we touch the temple, the temple will touch us." --Pres. Thomas S. Monson

We walked around the grounds, took some pictures, smelled flowers, talked about how sparkling white this temple is... and just enjoyed the whole feeling of it all. We found a spot on the perfect grass to sit and talk about Easter and the Atonement of our Savior. Everyone contributed and bore testimony of the things they have known and felt about this wondrous Gift. It was the perfect Easter/Conference experience.

Crushes

2010-02-26T08:06:00.000-08:00

Last night as the kids were in bed but not yet asleep I heard a little bit of a conversation going on. The first part I tuned into was Spencer jokingly saying, "I have a crush on girls." Then Kaybree said, "I have a crush on boys." Then Chase said, "I have a crush on Mom." Spencer and Kaybree then quickly took the opportunity to tell him he shouldn't have a crush on his mom... but before they could get very far I decided to join the conversation. I called to them (from my bedroom), "It's okay, cuz I have a crush on him too."
{{{Giggles}}} I'm sure they hadn't realized I was listening, but they liked my response. Chase especially liked it. =)
I remember similar conversations with Blake and Spencer when they were little--and even my own little brother, who's now in his 30's. It seems to be a normal occurrence for little boys to have crushes on their moms/sisters/aunts/cousins, and for little girls to also love their daddies/brothers/uncles/cousins when they're young and innocent. I don't remember hearing of too many who don't eventually outgrow it. ;-)
So, while it lasts, I'll choose to be flattered and honored to be the "current crush" in my little boy's life. I know the day will come all too soon when he'll find it's time for an "upgrade"!

What a Way to Start the Day

2010-02-24T13:59:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine mentioned this video awhile back. She said she watches it first-thing in the morning, almost daily. After watching it myself, I understand why. It's so full of good stuff; reminders of all that is truly important.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2AibapAJfE

Enjoy!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!

2010-02-21T00:02:00.000-08:00

I don't believe in trying to improve upon perfection. In fact, my sis-in-law Shari is so on-the-ball I went this whole trip and didn't take a single picture myself... I knew I could just wait and steal hers (and they'd be better anyway)! She's already written a post about our trip, so she has once again made my life very easy. Click here to read about the FUN!!!:

http://seanandsharitate.blogspot.com/2010/02/girls-only-prescott-trip.html

I'll include last year's trip here too--(again, courtesy of Shari):

http://seanandsharitate.blogspot.com/2009/01/girls-prescott-scrapbooking-trip.html

Thanks, Shari! =)

Mr. Tough Guy

2010-02-17T21:25:00.000-08:00

This is how Blake went to school today. It was Crazy Hair Day, and he decided to go ALL OUT. (For this picture he also had the face to match--man, if I didn't know him I'd be terrified! He looks like the kind of kid I tell mine to stay far away from!)

Rob buzzed the sides of Blake's head last night, leaving the mohawk for him. I don't know how many times I looked at Blake and thanked him for not really choosing to look like this on a regular basis!

As we drove to the bus stop this morning Blake was slowly sinking lower and lower in the seat, hiding himself behind the dash. As the bus came closer and I told him to have a good day, he looked at me and said, "Do I have to get out yet?" He was definitely questioning himself at that point. He reluctantly walked over and got on. The bus driver had a pretty good smile on her face as they drove away. I was also smiling with relief at the fact that this look is not a comfortable one for him.

After school he'll get the mohawk buzzed, and of course, wash out his red, green & blue. And out of this we're getting him a much-needed haircut. (Yay!) I'll have my normal kid back by tomorrow--Hallelujah!!!

Bowling, Anyone???

2010-02-15T20:17:00.000-08:00

For our Family Night activity we headed out this afternoon to find the Coke Ovens, down past Florence. Rob wanted to check out the area as a possible place to take his scouts anyway, so we set out to make a hike out of it.

Long story short, the amount of hiking we did ended up being about zero, but we definitely weren't lacking adventure. As we drove through a canyon, trying to wind our way through, we came to a spot that looked impossible to drive through. Unfortunately, Rob saw it as a challenge.

As we started driving over the boulders (not exaggerating--they were BOULDERS!), we soon found ourselves high-centered and in a dilemma. Rob started to get out to evaluate our situation and Ashlee commented, "You know, some families go bowling and stuff..." This was her way of letting us know that she apparently finds our family activities to be out-of-the-ordinary. Strange.

Well, we made it through and got to go about another 1/4 mile before we were truly at a dead end. Which of course meant... we got to go BACK over the part we had just come through. This time, knowing what we were in for, I got out to help guide from the outside (and snap pictures!), Ashlee stayed in the front to guide from there, and we let the other kids out to play around while Rob worked through it.

Here they go over the boulders...

Rob would drive a few inches, get out and strategically place rocks as needed, get in and drive over those rocks, get out and place some more rocks...

This went on for quite awhile...

I cringed watching them as they finally got through. That big rock behind them was stuck underneath the car as they came down off the boulders. The scraping and grinding before it finally worked its way out was physically painful to watch (and hear)!!! =/

This is what the other kiddos did while Rob & Ashlee were having their fun:

After we got out of that mess, we drove another way and found some railroad tracks to play around. We never made it to the Coke Ovens, since it was getting dark, but had a good time nonetheless.

Of course no family outing would be complete without Rob terrorizing the kids...

Chase loves having big brothers to swing him... 1... 2... 3!

Rob told Kaybree to see if she could hear a train coming...

Just hangin' out...

We thought this place looked like something out of a movie. It even looked misty back in there. It was really cool.

Had to snap a couple pictures of the scenery as the sun went down.

The night was complete after stopping to find a quick geocache on the way home:

Ashlee would still have preferred bowling... ;-)

Riding Like the Big Boys

2010-02-15T13:43:00.000-08:00

With school out for President's Day today, the kids enjoyed playing outside and riding bikes. Chase experienced a great accomplishment, thanks to some pointers and help from his big brother, Blake. He learned to jump his bike!!! He's always watched Blake and Spencer do this, so he was very excited today to learn to ride like the big boys!

Trying...
Gearing up for another attempt...

Getting some help a few times...

And finally... The great moment... WOOHOO!!!

Good times!!!

The Best Guy in the World

2010-02-13T11:05:00.000-08:00

Today as we were driving in the car Chase said, "Dad is the best guy in the world!" The other kids and I just had to agree.

I met this guy over 21 years ago, at a Family New Year's Eve party I tagged along to with my BFF, his cousin Wendi. (He & I would both later say that our first impressions of each other would never have led us to believe we'd end up married!)

A few months later, in a moment of desparation, he called me for a date. He had a Priests mutual activity that he had to bring a date to, so he called up his BCF Wendi to get the number for that girl who came to the family party. (She would have to do.) =)

The mutual activity was a beach cookout at Val Vista Lakes, and it was fun. Apparently he had enough fun that he decided to ask the girl out again, a few months later, for his (Gilbert HS) Homecoming.

I remember that night was the the beginnings of a connection with this guy. Homecoming was held at Burke Elementary School, and when we had had enough dancing, we went out and sat on the playground swings and chatted. I remember him talking about his Grandpa Tate, who was suffering from Alzheimer's. I remember how tough he tried to be as he talked about it all, but I caught some glimpses of how it was really tearing his heart out. He had a special relationship with his Grandpa. We talked about some funny things too, and I got to see what a fun sense of humor he had.

From there we started spending more time together... dating more... (This is one of my favorite pictures from that time in our lives.) One thing we often did was go together and donate blood (hence the bandage on his arm). Soooo romantic, I know! Stephenie Meyer would have a hayday with that one! I know it was really more one of my favorite things to do than his, but he obliged me... (because he's the best guy in the world).

I look at this picture and the memories come flooding back. That smile... those puppy-dog eyes... his Chevy Blazer... that smile... the parking lot of the Goodwill downtown (why the heck were we stopped there???)... that trim, fit, muscular tennis player he was (Oh, BABY!!!)... that smile... (did I already say that???) Man, those were some good times!!!

And here we are, 17 years of marriage & 6 kiddos later... and the best guy in the world is still mine. And will be for eternity. It just doesn't get any better than that.

Thanks, Honey, from all of us, for being the best guy in the world. For loving us, providing for us, teasing us, teaching us, and giving us a wonderful example to follow.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY TO THE BEST GUY IN THE WORLD!!!

I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!

Driving Mr. Chase

2010-02-12T11:32:00.000-08:00

This morning Chase was very anxious to deliver his Toy Story Valentines to his friends. He carefully wrote his name on each one, inserted the pencils they came with, and off we went. We drove around to his friends' homes, I stayed in the car so as not to detract from his sense of independence (and with hopes that I might not be seen in my frumpy sweats state), and he was on top of the world by the time we finished.

As this magic transformation came over him I started writing down his comments. After giving out his 4th Valentine he came running back to the car and exclaimed, "And I bet I'm not even being shy today, cuz, they're saying 'Thank you' and I'm saying 'You're welcome'!!!" He was also thrilled beyond belief at the fact that several friends had Valentines with treats for him! He said, "Mom, I can't believe they're giving us treats back!" (Especially when the valentines we're giving only come with a pencil! Heckuva deal, I must say!!!)

One of his friends gave him a Fruit by the Foot, and as he opened it to eat while we drove to the next house he was amazed at how long it was. He still pointed out, though, that, "This is deftalently NOT bigger than me!" (I'm so glad he hasn't lost the deftalently quite yet!)

After he finished the FBTF he stated matter-of-factly, "We're gonna have to go home." His hands were sticky and he can't stand being sticky. Before I even had the chance to offer an easier solution (like a wipee), he said, "I know just the thing, actually... Licking my hands off!" He was delighted with his discovery. (I loved the "just the thing"--and I love his occasional "actually" he throws in! Wonder where he'd get that...?) =)

One friend wasn't home, so he stuck the Valentine in the door, turned around to head back to the car, and said with a smile, "I give up!"

As we headed back home he said, "Mom, I think Jesus is thankful for me giving these to people."

Doesn't that just sum it all up right there? The whole point of every little thing we do--from giving out simple Valentines to performing major acts of service. Sign me up to chauffeur any day. It was time well spent.

Mary Poppins

2010-02-11T23:05:00.000-08:00

Ashlee's choir class had an evening field trip to see Mary Poppins at Gammage. Since it was a "provide your own transportation" event, we were able to bring Grandma Nelson along. We picked her up early and took her to Costa Vida for dinner (she had never been there), and then we headed for Tempe.
We had low-budget seats (which we were thankful for, so we could afford to go)--but they were way up high. Ashlee was so funny walking along our row to her seat--she was terrified, but laughing!!! She walked slowly, holding on to the back of the seats, freaking out every time she turned around to look back at us. We were all pretty nervous--it was so steep! But we made it! And we were glad we had brought binoculars along. =)
The show was about 3 hours long--and it was GREAT! I actually cried at the end--I'm such a ridiculous baby!!! I don't know what it is--sometimes I'm just so amazed by people's incredible talents!
It was a really fun evening. Great memories, Great times!

Ashlee, Lexy, Haylee, & Ashley

This was the last picture I got before the ushers came and told us NO PICTURES!!!

Awesome show!!!

Making Boys into Men

2010-02-09T21:48:00.000-08:00

Rob has been the Scoutmaster in our ward for just over a year now. He currently has 22 scouts in his troop. They've split into two deacons quorums for Sundays, but on mutual nights they all still meet together.
Our Stake Young Men's President spoke at a fireside for the boys and parents awhile back and made a statement that really stuck with me. I have to paraphrase, but he basically said, "Parents, please allow us to give your boys the kinds of experiences that will help them become men." He talked about experiences from his own youth: Experiences with very hard work, hikes that made boys cry,... and how he now looks back on those experiences with gratitude for the strength he gained.
Our scouts recently went on a snow campout and 17 of the 22 boys came. When the boys requested this snow campout awhile back, Rob honored their request despite his fears that they wouldn't enjoy it. (One of the main objectives of a scout leader needs to be shadow leadership--allowing the boys to carry out their own plans, not simply the plans of the leaders--so Rob let them go for it.) So off they went in January, 4 leaders and 17 boys, to camp out on the ground, in the snow, in front of Rob's parents' cabin.
Long story short, it was a miserable time had by almost all. Boys were crying, feet felt frostbitten, some shivered all night... One boy was crying at home before they even left on the campout, not wanting to go; but he was finally persuaded to come. I'm sure he regretted it. But, silly boys that they are, some have recently asked if they can plan another one!!! (It won't happen, since it's already February now, but still funny that they asked!)
The boys also recently had the opportunity to carry out a service project for sweet Sis. Yvonne White in our ward, an elderly sister who is in a wheelchair. She needed a pathway for her wheelchair to enable her to get to the back of her property. So on a Tuesday evening they went over and got it done for her. She was so appreciative and said they even made it look so "artistic."
In these pictures it appears that Bro. Reed is doing all the work and the boys are standing around "supervising." And of course Rob was behind the camera, so he's not in the pictures at all. But I'm sure these pictures don't reflect all that went on that evening.
I see these boys--including my own sons--benefiting from the efforts of wonderful Young Men's leaders, and I'm so grateful for the time and energy these men invest in carrying out their callings. Having never been a boy myself, things like knife-making, animal skinning, etc., just don't cross my mind; even if they did, where in the world would I find the time to explore these interests with them? And no matter how hard I tried, I would never be able to be an example of a righteous Priesthood holder. As a mom, there's no way I could even begin to think of all the things my sons need to know before they leave home. I can do all in my power as their mother, but I'm so grateful for the people and programs available to support my sons in becoming the men they will one day be. It truly takes a village to raise a child--and faithful Priesthood holders to make boys into men.

Feelin' the Luuuuuuuv

2010-02-06T11:16:00.000-08:00

Today as we were starting family scripture study Ashlee decided to make a less-than-kind comment to Spencer. (Who says family scripture time is always an uplifting and edifying experience???) So Rob gave Ashlee an opportunity to show the true love she has for her wonderful little brother. They got to sit nice and close, with her arm around him, as we read. It was joyous. Can't you just see in her face the warm, fuzzy feelings of sweet siblinghood??? Next time this happens we'll let her sing for us, "I love brother, he loves me... We are a happy family!!!"

Do You Ever...?

2010-02-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

Emmee - Age 4 (2004) - holding flowers she picked for me =)

Just pondering today and wondering if there are other moms out there who look at their kids and think like I do, "How did I ever get lucky enough to be your mother?" (So as to not get TOO serious, I think we've also all had those moments of, "Why the heck do I have to be your mother???" Grrrrrrr.) Okay, not really though!

So... back to the serious side. There are times I find myself wondering how this all happened--how someone like me, with so many weaknesses and shortcomings, could have children who set amazing examples for me daily. I honestly feel so undeserving of them at times, I feel like it's an unspeakable honor and privilege just to get to spend time with them--not to mention be their mother!

I think all of us must feel this way, as we have the cherished opportunity--and responsibility--to teach and guide these incredible spirits who have been saved for this time in history. The world has never before known times like these. Our precious children will be the ones to prepare the world for the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I sense this, often, as I watch them go out into the world and stand strong for what is right. They say and do things that I KNOW I didn't have the strength to do at their ages. They love the Lord, they love truth, and they aren't afraid to make it known.

I've had the distinct impression, at times, that they are, in fact, my superiors. It's easy, as parents, to get the idea that because we're older we know more. While we may have arrived before our children on this earth, and we therefore have more worldly learning, they stayed back and furthered their premortal preparations. So I ask myself: Which experiences count for more? Theirs or mine? I think they win.

With that knowledge I realize the duties before me in applying my knowledge of this world that they've entered, to their knowledge of things I've probably long forgotten. And humbly remembering my place in all of this.

I LOVE BEING A MOTHER!!!

Buckin' Bronco

2010-02-01T22:07:00.000-08:00

One of the kids' regular activities is playing Buckin' Bronco. Blake or Spencer (usually Spencer) will let them climb on, brace themselves, and then the contest begins, to see how long they can stay on. It's always just a matter of seconds.

Here's Spencer with Kaybree:

Now Emmee gives it a whirl... cowgirl hat & all!
And she bites the dust!

Chase is bracing himself...
Hangin' on for dear life...

And... Going... Going... GONE!!!

Time for a rest.

What Dads Do

2010-02-01T21:40:00.000-08:00

Bike maintenance at our house is a full-time job. Between thorns in tires, chains needing oil, training wheels to put on, training wheels to take off... it's impossible to keep up. Rob finally decided to take an evening and get all the bikes repaired.

Working on Kaybree's...

Working on Spencer's...
What do dads do? They bring smiles!

And they're off!!!

That Sense of Accomplishment

2010-02-01T16:44:00.000-08:00

Chase has played around quite a few times with writing his name, but today he was suddenly determined to really learn it. So after a quick lesson of watching me write the letters, he sat down to copy it over and over and over. It was really cute to see the continuous smile on his face as he felt the sense of accomplishment and saw improvement with each try.

Of course no paper would be complete without a few drawings as well. =)

Sweet Success!!!

Deftalently!!!

2010-01-28T08:47:00.000-08:00

Chase is right on the verge of giving up one of my favorite words in his vocabulary: DEFTALENTLY. Last night he asked me how to say it (correctly) and we sat there, taking the word syllable-by-syllable, DEF - IN - ITE - LY, with him copying what I said. Even though it's fun to see the sense of accomplishment kids have at moments like this, a part of me was sad to say goodbye to this word I've loved. It's been so cute to hear his excitement, when I ask him a question and the answer comes back, "Deftalently!"

"Should we go buy some groceries?" "Deftalently!"

"Do you want to wear your glow-in-the-dark shirt?" "Deftalently!"

"Want me to take your picture on the warthog?" "Deftalently!"

Oh, why do little people have to grow up?!? =(

Windstorm

2010-01-21T20:17:00.000-08:00

It's been storming a lot this week, and the kids have (mostly) loved the rain.
I was in the kitchen tonight and Blake came running in hysterically, half laughing, half in shock, jumping around, grabbing his face and yelling, "Oh my gosh!" over and over and over. It shocked me too, and I was trying to get out of him what all the Oh my goshing was about. But that was all he could say.
I followed him as he ran out to the back yard, and then found out what all the excitement was about. He and Spencer had been in the office and had just said, "Let's go out and jump on the trampoline," (they thought it would be fun in the windstorm--there was no lightning or anything...) when they looked out and saw the trampoline BLOW AWAY!

It blew all the way from the middle of our yard, over the fence and to the opposite side of the yard next to us. From there it went on to blow over the fence behind that lot.

I think I'm really glad the boys weren't on it when this happened... or would their weight have kept it on the ground???

Craziness!!!

Young Women's Medallion

2010-01-20T21:50:00.000-08:00

Ashlee recently completed her Personal Progress program. This is the poster Sis. Erickson, our Personal Progress specialist, made for her. Bishop Bourgeous will present her with her medallion in church as soon as it arrives from Salt Lake. Way to go, Ashlee! We love you!!!

Goofy Girls!

2010-01-08T10:02:00.000-08:00

Last night Kaybree (7) & Ashlee (16) were sitting on the couch together, doing homework. Ashlee started talking to herself as she worked her math problem, and Kaybree turned to her and said, "Do you know how hard it's getting to tell people that we're related?!?" Then they both almost fell off the couch laughing.

Just thought I'd share--I know, no pictures... boring. lame.

Sorry! =/

Amen!!!

2010-01-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

I don't know the person who wrote this, but she's a friend of a friend of mine, so that's good enough, right?!? I tried to share some of my own thoughts on this topic, but then decided it only detracted from her wonderful way of putting it. So I will simply say, "Amen!" I love, love, love it! Enjoy!

http://arizonaromneys.blogspot.com/2009/05/making-most-of-our-time.html

Hiking & Life: A Brilliant Analogy (if I do say so myself!)

2010-01-02T23:21:00.000-08:00

As we were hiking today, I realized some parallels between a good hike and a good life (Sorry, haven't added the pictures to go with it yet!):

*Sometimes looking back is worthwhile, but most of the time looking forward is more productive.
*Sometimes you'll encounter others who are simply out to finish first. Let them go by.
*Stopping to smell the flowers might cost you some time, but you'll be glad you didn't miss the experience!
*Sometimes you're the leader. Sometimes you're the follower. Both positions have great value.
*Holding someone's hand as you go makes the whole experience much better.
*Sometimes what you think is a shortcut really ends up costing you!
*But... sometimes a shortcut leads you to things you never would have seen otherwise.
*Be prepared for the journey.
*The best things in life can't be $$$purchased$$$.
*Just when the path starts to smooth out, you come around a corner and find a boulder.
*But... after you make it past the boulder, the path will often be smooth again.
*Sometimes what you learn by climbing the rocks teaches you more than you would have learned by going around.
*Challenge yourself. Push yourself. But also allow yourself to rest occasionally along the way.
And last, but not least:
*If you can't find a potty when you need one, NOTHING ELSE MATTERS!!!

Miracle on Oakley Drive

2009-12-30T11:09:00.000-08:00

Well, this might not quite match the Miracle on 34th Street, but we had our own little Christmas miracle this year. About a week before Christmas (5 1/2 days, to be exact) we realized that Spencer's hamster, Rascal, was missing. (Rascal joined our family just after Christmas last year, so he's now very well-loved.) At one point while Blake and Spencer were searching, they even thought they had found him, dead--but when they got a flashlight and a better look, were relieved to find they were wrong. It was just a piece of cardboard. But... still, no Rascal. As the days continued going by, Spencer worried about Rascal surviving with no food or water.

Late on Christmas Eve (early Christmas Day by this time), while Rob, Ashlee, & I were still wrapping the last few presents, Rob came into the family room and stated to Ashlee & me, "VERY FUNNY! Whose idea was that?!?" We had no clue what he was talking about. He took us through the entryway, into the small bathroom, and showed us what he had discovered: Rascal in the trashcan!!! Alive!!!

We all had a good laugh as he recounted his moment of fear. He had been near the front door and suddenly heard a scuffling noise. He knew everyone was asleep except for the 3 of us, and he had just been with Ashlee and me in the other room. In an instant he was fully prepared to find an unwelcome guest and tackle him to the ground. He even acted out for us the exact way he tiptoed over to the bathroom door and then THREW it open, ready to pounce on whoever was in there! (Ashlee and I were rolling on the floor by this point!)

After the hilarity of it all wore off, we stood looking down into the trashcan, baffled. None of us could see any way he could have gotten in there! How could he have gotten IN, when it was obvious he couldn't get OUT?!? This trashcan is in the corner, with nothing around it. No counter, toilet, shelf, ... nothing that Rascal could have climbed onto and fallen in from. Granted, it's a small trashcan--12" high, maybe... but still... the same question went through our minds: How could he have gotten in, when he couldn't get out??? We could find no explanation.

So Rob put him in a bucket under the tree, and when we went in to open gifts Christmas morning, he told Spencer to go look in it. That moment was as fun as watching the kids open their gifts! He was so excited!!!

Just the night before, Rob had asked Spencer what he was doing to find Rascal. Spencer told him he was praying every day--plus obviously looking for him often. When Spencer looked into the bucket he yelled, "I KNEW IT!!!" Then he explained to us that when he went to bed Christmas Eve he told Heavenly Father that it would be really great if Rascal was back on Christmas Day; that would be a really, really nice Christmas present.

As we talked about the amazement of it all, none of us was able to explain how Rascal appeared in the trashcan. But Spencer had no question about how it happened. He said, "I guess Heavenly Father just picked him up and dropped him in!"

Friends

2009-12-09T16:23:00.000-08:00

These three are just peas in a pod. They play together at least weekly, and love (almost) every minute of it! Lunch on the trampoline is tradition now, silliness included! There's just nothing quite like lunch with good friends. =)

Randolph (Arizona Training Center)

2009-12-06T23:38:00.000-08:00

No pictures with this post--and I'm changing names as well, for privacy reasons--but great memories we'll keep forever!
The youth from our stake were invited to go to the Arizona Training Center today, to spend time with the people who live there. They are severely disabled individuals, and some have been there since the 1950s when the Center opened. Since half of our family would be going, and the youth leaders had been told that younger family members were welcome, we decided to take the whole family.
After an orientation meeting, everyone headed out on the grounds to gather our Friends from their homes, and bring them to the gathering hall. It worked out that about 2 youth would be with one Friend.
We quickly came to realize that we were experiencing a great opportunity, a true privilege. Rather than blessing these people's lives by being there to help them, they were blessing our lives, simply by allowing us to spend time with them. As the director put it, "Today you will have the opportunity to make celestial friends."
Rob, Spencer, Emmee, Kaybree, Chase, & I were assigned to Marie, a woman probably in her 50's, with Downs Syndrome. She was in a wheelchair, which Spencer pushed from her home to the hall. They had told us that the Friends look forward to "Primary" all week, and it was obvious that Marie knew where we were going. Down the last sidewalk heading toward the building, she started moving her body forward and back, and making noise like a motor, letting us know that we needed to move faster. =) She also had a HUGE smile on her face in anticipation of what was to come.
When we got to the hall, Marie knew just where to go. She sits on the front row of the auditorium chairs, in the yellow section. She maneuvered from her wheelchair to one of the chairs, then proceeded to let Emmee and Kaybree know IN NO UNCERTAIN TERMS that they would be sitting on either side of her. (She let them know by yanking their arms and pulling them into the chairs!) We all have to communicate right? =)
Marie is cross-eyed, has a prominent underbite, and doesn't hear well. Her favorite activities are those that involve loud noise, and especially noises that she can feel inside her ear canal. She loved it if we banged on the chairs, clapped loudly right next to her ear (and she favored her left ear), or made loud blowing or growling sounds in her ear. At one point she took my hand and banged my rings against the metal fasteners on the chair. My hand was all red by the time I got it back from her. =) The kids thought it was fun when the volunteers told them that this was their chance to be ROWDY in Primary! For Maggie, the rowdier the better!
One of Marie's first "requests" after we got into the hall was for Emmee to make a loud "UUUUUUUOOOHHHHHHH" sound in her ear. She made her wishes known by making the sound herself, then turning her ear toward Emmee. At first Emmee wasn't sure what to do, but we helped her figure it out and then she complied. As we were all still becoming accustomed to Marie's wishes, this was especially hilarious. Emmee was definitely out of her comfort zone, her eyes glancing all around to see who might be staring at her as she made this funny, LOUD growling/groaning sound! But Marie was THRILLED, and we all knew that was all that mattered. =) Of course by the end we were all doing crazy, loud things for her, without a thought of who was watching or what they thought. We had forgotten about ourselves by then; it was all about Marie.
We had also been told beforehand that Marie doesn't like to have anyone sit next to her. She always wants the chairs on either side of her empty, so she can hit them and make noise. She also doesn't like males, and makes them sit at least two chairs away. But for some reason she changed the rules for us. Even Spencer was allowed to sit by her for a few minutes!
Marie had a cute way of letting people know when she was finished with them. After Spencer had been sitting by her for awhile, she suddenly pushed on his back, then when he stood up she pushed his bum in the direction she wanted him to go. Then she replaced him with Kaybree by pulling on Kaybree's arm and plopping her into the chair. (She also called Lane Bourgeous over and "requested" that he blow and make loud noises in her ear--and then she promptly sent him away when she was finished with him. She's probably the only person who's ever been able to push Lane around!) ;)
Marie wasn't the only CELESTIAL FRIEND we got to make that day. Sally fell in love with Chase--repeatedly. Sally is one of the "old-timers" at the Center. She has "raised" just about everyone else there. She wanders around with her walker, checking on everyone throughout the hall. Each time she would pass by us, she would hurry (as quickly as she could) over to Chase and mumble, "Da baby?" Even though it was hard to understand her, she always wanted to know his age and who he belonged to. One time she said, "Boo!" to him, and he laughed. Then the next time she came around we told him to say, "Boo!" to her. When he did it she thought that was so funny!
One man who was walking around came up to Rob and grabbed his nose--pretty hard. Rob was looking another direction when the man approached him, so it especially caught him off guard. I would have loved to have a picture of that!
Just a few chairs over from us and all our racket was a quieter, calmer woman with long, gray hair. She was probably at least 80 years old, and she quietly held a life-size doll in her arms. We were told by the workers that this woman truly believes she is a mother, and she loves and nurtures her dolls just like a mother nurtures her children. As I watched her hug and rock her doll, I couldn't help thinking of all the mothers in the world who fail to find joy in motherhood, and yet here is this woman who would give anything to be a mother. I am so grateful for the knowledge I have that lets me know that this wonderful woman will have the opportunity, throughout eternity, to put her deepest desires into action, as a true mother. I believe her rewards will be far greater than even the greatest rewards she could have experienced in this life.
There was also a woman who loved to yell out her excitement. She was so, so happy--about everything! And she called quite a few people "Martha." She would spot someone across the hall and rush over to them, screaming her excitement as she went, and hug them. Often her next phrase would be, "What happened?!?" as if they had not visited in awhile--but not in an angry way at all; simply letting them know she missed them (even if it had only been a few minutes since she last saw them). =) Watching her, the thought occurred to me that if "men are that they might have joy," then she is way ahead of the game! I'm sure she has been joyful her entire life, unlike the rest of us who have had to fumble and stumble our way around for awhile before realizing that finding joy is a choice.
The volunteers explained to us that the program is the same every Sunday: Songs are sung in the same order, the residents sit in the same places, etc. Structure is very important, and the residents trust that everything will be just as they expect. The volunteers told us that there are several people there who are completely nonverbal. They can't sing the songs or participate like some of the others can, but they listen and they recognize the familiar songs sung week after week. The last two songs of the program are, "My Heavenly Father Loves Me" and "I Am a Child of God." There are three nonverbal individuals who cry each Sunday as they hear "My Heavenly Father Loves Me," because they know that means Primary is about to end.
I realized again today something I've learned before: That the people we often see as being "disadvantaged" in one way or another are often, in fact, the ones who actually have huge advantages over the rest of us. It's the mentally disabled individuals who are usually carefree and happy about everything; they love everyone; they see each day as an opportunity to find excitement in whatever comes along. The physically disabled often decide early-on that life will be as good as they make it--unlike the rest of us who are constantly distracted by our aims for perfection of one kind or another, repeatedly disappointed that we can't "have it all."
Today was a perfect way to set the tone for this Holiday season. It had nothing to do with present-wrapping, or rushing around to store after store, or the big man in the red suit. It had to do with those things that Christmas is really all about: It had to do with love, joy, and service. I truly pray for the day when Christmas can remain that simple.

At This Time of Thanksgiving

2009-11-16T05:20:00.001-08:00

As I've thought about the many things I'm thankful for, and with Christmas right around the corner, I want to thank my parents for one of the greatest gifts they gave me--a gift they gave me by what they DIDN'T give me.
Growing up, we didn't have an excess of money. We always had what we needed, and much of what we wanted; I don't remember ever feeling like anything was missing. But we didn't ever spend a lot on clothes, home decor, nice cars, etc. We bought what was necessary, and enjoyed some "fun" things (on a small scale--like going out for ice cream) once-in-awhile.
As a parent now, I realize what a challenge it is to raise children in this world where entertainment and indulgence of every kind is but a credit card swipe away. It can be so tempting to buy every toy, every vacation, every happy meal, every this and that for our little ones; and often we're made to feel that if our children don't have these things, it's because we don't love them enough to properly "provide" for them. It is much easier to indulge ourselves and our children, than it is to exercise restraint. Truly loving our children requires us to hold back.
I was recently trying to find a favorite Conference talk that addressed this issue--but, sadly, I don't know who the speaker was. In my search, however, I still found a couple of quotes I like:
In 2001, Carol B. Thomas stated that, "We must avoid saturating our children with material things. We may deprive a child of enjoyment when we give him too much." Isn't it interesting that the world would have us believe that we're depriving our children by what we don't give them, when in reality we run the risk of depriving them of true joy by what we do give them.
I have a good friend whose husband has been out of work for almost a year. Their Christmas this year will be very small. They've always lived on a tight budget, and she told me about another small Christmas they had: She said she was worried, as she knew of other families who lived around them who would be enjoying new quads, new video game systems, etc. on Christmas morning, and she wasn't sure how her kids were going to feel when they saw what all their friends had gotten. When Christmas morning came, they opened presents and enjoyed some family time, then went outside to play with their neighborhood friends. After checking out their friends' new things, her kids ran back home and said, "This is the best Christmas EVER!!!" Seeing everyone else's STUFF hadn't phased them at all. They were grateful for what they had received, and never seemed to feel that anything was unfair. This quote by Richard G. Scott perfectly sums up the example that was set by these sweet kids: "Children teach us how to find joy even under the most challenging circumstances. Children haven't yet learned to be depressed by concentrating on the things they don't have."
As I think about my Christmas experiences as a child, I remember two gifts: One was a little blue Stomper volkswagen that was in my stocking; the other was the game "Operation," that I had been wanting for MONTHS--maybe years. My parents kept Christmas very simple, and I will be forever indebted to them for that.
As a mom now, I want more than anything for my own children to find joy in everyday life. I don't want them to live life constantly in search of the next exciting purchase or the next new upgrade; only to be left, time after time, feeling empty. I pray that they will find joy in nature, uplifting music, good literature, and most of all, truth. I hope that they will find satisfaction in activities like hiking, playing simple games, chatting with loved ones, accomplishing goals...
I'm so grateful for parents who taught me to find joy in simple things, and I hope I can manage to pass this wonderful gift on to my children.

THANK YOU, MOM & DAD! I LOVE YOU!!!

A Good Read

2009-11-12T16:06:00.000-08:00

I recently finished reading the book Fahrenheit 451, the "Queen Creek Read" for Sept./Oct. Very thought-provoking. Just thought I'd pass along my recommendation, in case anyone's looking for a good book. It's by Ray Bradbury, and you can find it in the science-fiction section. (Yes, science fiction!!!) If I hadn't already been reading it before I realized it was sci-fi, I'm sure I never would have given it a chance. So glad I didn't know beforehand!!! ;-) I'd love to quote some parts here, but I won't... Anyway, GREAT BOOK!!!

I'm Gonna Miss This

2009-11-12T10:05:00.000-08:00

Last night at bedtime Chase was restless, and since Rob was out in the garage and not coming in right away I decided to bring the little guy into bed with me for the time being. As I've learned to do with all our kids, I laid by him with my eyes closed, so as not to make it a playtime. It wasn't a punishment either; just time to be calm. He was still squirming, turning this way and that, trying to get comfortable. When he finally got comfy, with the covers just right, and seemed to be settled, I laid there taking in all his little actions, and decided I really should write this down. He's my baby, and I'll soon forget the details of what it was like during these years of having little ones so often next to me in bed--these years that, I have to admit sadly, I've sometimes looked forward to having be over with; these years of waking up with an aching shoulder from sleeping with my arm straight up, out of the way, because a little person was right up close to me all night...

First I began to feel light, ever-so-gentle pokes of a little finger on my cheeks and forehead, then eyelids. He really wasn't trying to wake me--and I wasn't asleep anyway; his fingers just needed a little something to do while his body started to relax. Then I felt a little arm reach around my neck, and a couple little fingers began feeling the bones on the back of my neck. Soon the other arm followed, but around the other side, so it had to make its way between the pillow and my neck, which took a little work for him. (I still stayed "asleep," knowing that all of this was part of his process of winding down. I knew if I laughed or talked to him it would just complicate the ritual.)

While his arms were around my neck, his little face was, of course, just a couple inches from mine. It was so hard not to peek at him as I laid there wondering what he might be looking at or thinking about. His little fingers kept quietly studying the top of my spine. I could feel his little breaths on my face, and here and there he would quietly mumble a word or two. I'm sure his mind was going over and over the day's events, and his thoughts sometimes came out in words. Nothing I could make any sense of; no complete thoughts, just little half-words.

Then a big yawn with a little sigh on the end. Then slowly the arms came out from behind my neck and were folded up softly by his head.

A few seconds later I felt a little foot squirm its way between my thigh and the bed. I felt a slightly scratchy little toenail--it really has been awhile since I trimmed them... :( Then the foot got pulled back out, and then put back again at a slightly different angle. Much better. Or maybe not... The foot got pulled out yet again, and turned slightly for a third try. Finally he pulled it out again and decided its final resting place needed to be between my thighs. And there it stayed.

My sweet little cuddle-buddy, joining me just until my Big Cuddle-Buddy came to bed. As much as I've looked forward to consistently having just two of us in the bed, I have to admit that I REALLY AM GONNA MISS THIS.

More Random...

2009-10-20T22:09:00.000-07:00

...And, while I'm on the topic of RANDOM, I had a funny memory come to me recently, and thought just for the heck of it I'd post it. So I guess here's as good as anywhere...
Blake and Spencer have spent their whole lives being told how much they look alike. When they were little, strangers always asked if they were twins, or commented about how much they looked alike. They still get comments even now.
One day when Spencer was about 4 he asked me, "Mom, how did you figure out that me and Blake weren't twins?"
I can't even type this story now--all these years later--without laughing all over again! (And, yes, feeling stupid, since I'm sitting here by myself at the computer!) Anyway, thank goodness we have kids to keep the humor alive!!! ;-)
And... excuse me for being so RANDOM!

~~FYI, this picture was taken on a Fathers & Sons Outing in 2004. I was looking for a picture I could post with Blake & Spencer in it together--and this was the first one I came across. I'm sad that the blogging world didn't exist back then (did it??? Well, at least not in my life...)--so I'm going to occasionally throw some of our family's past on here--RANDOMLY!!! ;-)

Random...

2009-10-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

My Kaybree girl cracks me up!!! Her most recent new word is RANDOM. Quite often, her statements will start off with, "Okay, this is really random, but..." so then I'm laughing before she even tells me what it is she wants to say! She's WAY too young for a lot of the phrases--and facial expressions--she comes up with... but I've learned that's a part of having teenage siblings. She's definitely 7 going on 15!

The Day Has Come... Again

2009-10-01T12:30:00.000-07:00

Well, another sad day has arrived. This morning as I was writing the daily lunch notes (okay, maybe not always daily... but I try!), Spencer let me know that it would be okay with him if I didn't put one in his lunch. He was sweet about it. He let me down easy. It was obvious that he was hesitant to tell me what was on his mind. He simply said, "You don't have to put a note in mine." Then he added, "Sometimes it's kind-of embarrassing."

To be honest, I've been expecting this to happen anytime now--after all, this ain't my first rodeo!!! I've been through this twice before. Sometimes it happens when you're driving them to school and realize they're trying really hard not to be seen with you. Sometimes it happens when they don't want a kiss anymore--just a hug will do (and they'd really prefer to skip the hug as well). Sometimes they decide they're too old to listen to bedtime stories (which, by the way, is not allowed in my home--there is NO SUCH THING as being too old to be read to!!!). I think for most kids it's all of the above--just in different orders.

Sometimes I feel a little bit bad as I go on doing things (like lunch notes) that I'm pretty sure they no longer want. But I wait for them to bring it up. I would never want to suggest to them that they're outgrowing these things, just in case they really do still like them. I don't know what will be next on Spencer's list--I'm pretty sure he's not interested in having me come eat lunch with him at school anymore... Sixth grade is a pretty significant turning point.

I'm grateful that, so-far, they've all been kind about it. I think they might be too afraid to say it like it is, for fear that I'll get sad & mushy on them. And I'm actually arriving at the point of starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel! It seems that at some point it comes full-circle, and suddenly they like you again! In fact, I'm going on a field trip with Ashlee tomorrow! IN FRONT OF HER FRIENDS!!! Who'da thunkit???

Love Deeply

2009-09-22T16:32:00.001-07:00

I have a good friend, Laura, who taught me something recently. She expressed some things that are exactly how I've felt for a long time. She said that she's at a point in her life where she doesn't feel that she has a lot of time for socializing with friends (I can totally relate!!!) She was asked to teach an Enrichment class recently on the topic of "Live Simply~Laugh Often~Love Deeply." As she prepared to teach this she said that the phrase LOVE DEEPLY came to have great meaning for her. She came to understand that, although she doesn't have a lot of time to give to very many people (yes, this is me--TOTALLY!), she can love deeply the person she is with at the moment.

I had a whole new energy come into me as she said this! For years I've felt so overwhelmed and saddened by the fact that I just have so many people I love, love, love, yet don't seem to "have time for." I'm not okay with this, and I never will be. But to think that, if I do get the rare opportunity to spend a few moments with a cherished friend, I can make that time the best it can possibly be by making sure I love deeply, gave me a renewed perspective.

One of the qualities I love about Laura is that she gets right to the point. (She calls it being nosy, but I would argue.) I see in her a true love and concern for others. She has simply chosen not to waste her time on "small talk," but to get to the heart of the matter. Her time is limited--as is all of ours, as busy moms--so she asks questions quickly and then responds accordingly.

I know I don't possess the same qualities Laura does, and I may never have it in me to be direct in my conversations; but in my own way--whatever that may be--I hope I can implement some ways to let others know what their friendship means in my life. Whether I just run into a friend in the store, or we're getting together with our kids at the park, I hope that I can learn how to LOVE DEEPLY in all my relationships!!!

It's so great to be taught valuable lessons by wonderful friends!

Update!

2009-09-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to quickly report that the Tooth Fairy DID, in fact, come through for our Emmee! Amazingly, it even happened to be THE VERY NIGHT that I had written my desperate post in an attempt for a referral. (Maybe Ms. TF is a blogger? Anyone know???) Anyway, somehow she apparently was "clued in" to the awful state we were in--and she got the situation resolved. So, we've decided she's a keeper... at least for now. We're trying to forgive and forget, and give her another chance. But you can bet if this happens again she's getting THE BOOT!!! And it WON'T be pretty!!!
Thanks SO MUCH to all of you who offered help when we were at a complete loss. It's great to have good friends! ;-)

Anyone Know of a Good Tooth Fairy?!?

2009-09-03T09:26:00.000-07:00

Hey, just thought I'd ask around... I have SO HAD IT with our Tooth Fairy!!! Two nights ago my poor Em was brave enough to pull out her tooth that had been sticking out crooked for days... weeks, maybe... wrote her name/date/info on a note as instructed... the whole bit... and our LAME tooth fairy has not shown!!! This is just absolutely unacceptable. And this is NOT the first time she's pulled this on us! It's really getting out of hand. Seriously, if she was going on vacation or something, there are forms to fill out for that. For cryin' out loud, she's got to let someone know these things!!! Soooo... to all you moms out there who might be able to give us a good referral--we're ready to tell our Tooth Fairy to PACK HER BAGS!!! Any help would be greatly appreciated. We're feeling very desperate here. (The guilt is almost unbearable!) Please respond A.S.A.P.!!!

Song of the Day

2009-08-21T11:43:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd share the song Chase & I made up on our bike ride this morning. We had gone a little too far from home, and he was thirsty, so we wanted to find a faster way back. We took a dirt road, that he ended up saying was the longest road EVER. So in our boredom we came up with this--(To the tune of "I Hope They Call Me on a Mission"):

I hope that we can find a shortcut,

To get us quickly to our house.

We just might see some snakes and lizards,

And gophers, rats, and birds,

And possibly a mouse!!!

Please don't roll your eyes. We were pretty proud of that!!! ;-)

Simple Joys

2009-08-18T20:41:00.000-07:00

Years ago I heard a speaker in General Conference counsel parents to give our children "things that money cannot buy." I've had this as one of my (many) mottos for years now, and I hope and pray constantly that after all is said and done, despite this overindulgent world we live in, my children will realize that it's the little things in life--the things that don't cost a lot of money--that are really the most valuable.
Today's "simple joy" for me was a bike ride with my Chaser-Boy. He's my buddy, my right-hand-man, now that everyone else is in school all day. My wonderful hubby fixed my bike tire last night so we could ride the bike with the baby seat on it. So, after we got everyone else off for the day, Chase & I set out for some fun. The first words out of his mouth as we started down the street were, "Yih! That's what I'm talkin' about!!!"
As we rode along we talked about why a sidewalk is called a sidewalk, we thought of words that rhyme, he played "drums" on my back for awhile, we had fun watching lizards run frantically out of bushes as we passed them, and after waving to a stranger we passed he informed me that, "All those persons in cars is a Child of God." He told me he would like to "do some jumps," so I found some bumpy areas of a dirt road to go on =), and we also decided some sprinklers looked good for riding through. Unfortunately, we didn't have much success trying to ride up the grass hill they were on. We suddenly came to a dead stop, and fell over!!! Thank goodness we were on a slope, so it wasn't as far a fall. Chase thought it was hilarious!!! He'll probably ask if we can do that again next time!

These are the moments life is all about... Finding joy in the simple things!

Being the Youngest

2009-08-05T07:37:00.001-07:00

Ashlee had a fun opportunity a few weeks ago to hold a 4 month old baby girl during Sacrament Meeting. (One of her YW leaders was speaking in church, and her husband would be busy with the 2 year old, so she asked Ashlee to keep the baby.) Ashlee was loving it!

Ashlee was next to the aisle, and Chase was more toward the middle, with Rob, me, and other kids in-between, so it was a little while into the meeting before he noticed the baby. He started to make his way along in front of all of us, and I thought he was coming to sit with me. I put my arms out to him, but he didn't even glance my way. I realized his eyes were fixed on only one thing: THE BABY. He could hardly make his way over everyone's feet, church bags, etc. that were in his way, because he wasn't going to look down for a second. His attention was 100% on THE BABY.

He was finally a couple feet from her and he just stopped and stared at Ashlee with this baby. After a few seconds he turned to me and said, "Where did she get THAT?"

It was so cute! I didn't know whether he was hoping he could find one too, or whether he was trying to figure out how Ashlee had one of these things that only Moms usually had. Even though he's our baby, I've always figured he was around other babies enough (cousins, etc.) that it's not too strange a concept to him. But watching him with this baby made me realize that he really doesn't get a lot of interaction with babies, especially not like kids do with a sibling.

After he took it all in for a minute, and we explained the situation to him, he plopped himself down next to her and played with her. He was fascinated as she gripped his finger, he giggled at her little sudden movements, he loved having her stare at him... He was in love!!!

So Sassy!!!

2009-03-12T23:30:00.001-07:00

These are our miniature horses, Crystal and Sassy. We've had them a little over 2 years (they lived at G/G Nelson's until we had a place for them). They roam the backyard and look forward to having the kids bring them an occasional carrot or apple.
A couple weeks ago one of our pieces of pigwire fell down and Sassy got out. (Sassy is slightly shorter than Crystal, so apparently Crystal couldn't make it under.) Sassy didn't go far--she was just on the other side, but unfortunately we were needing to leave and couldn't leave this situation the way it was. Kaybree was a HUGE help. After we fixed the pigwire (hence the red rope holding it in place), she lured Sassy back in with an apple while I held the gate and kept Crystal in. I might have been there for hours if it weren't for the help of my little Kabes!!!

Peter and the Wolf

2009-03-12T22:49:00.000-07:00

In February, Emmee & I went on her 3rd Grade Field Trip to Peter and the Wolf. It was a fun event, and I was in charge of six little sweeties. (Some other moms weren't so lucky!) The bus rides consisted of lots of those hand-clapping rhyme-thingy's that you do with your BFF (classic 3rd grade!), and of course TONS of giggles! On the way back to the school one of the girls commented that it would have been better if it was a movie. I took the opportunity to explain that Peter and the Wolf was designed to allow the audience to use imagination to picture the events of the story. I then attempted to have a teaching moment and ask each girl about her interpretation of the story. I asked Emmee what color hair her Peter had. She said it was brown with a white tail. After a brief moment of picturing a rebellious little kid with a bleached, braided ponytail, running through the woods with a gun, and wondering what in the world would cause Emmee to imagine Peter that way, we finally figured out that she thought the whole time that this story was about Peter Cottontail--yes, the bunny!!! =) I almost fell off the bus seat laughing!
Well, so much for teaching moments and encouraging kids to use their imaginations! Maybe imagination doesn't exist in our world anymore... BUT... we still had fun!!!

Arrow of Light

2009-03-12T22:31:00.000-07:00

Spencer recently earned his Arrow of Light award, which is the highest award a cub scout can earn. (Yes, he's now in 11 yr old scouts--I admit I'm behind on my blogging...) Anyway, Spencer got to have an arrow painted on his head by Dad (Mom had the all-important job of holding up his bangs), and he was honored in front of the other cub scouts for all his efforts. He really worked hard to finish up his requirements for his Webelos badge and his Arrow of Light. Way to go, Spencer!!!

Dr. Dad

2009-03-12T20:52:00.000-07:00

Rob taught the "fishing" merit badge to his scouts a few weeks ago, and told me after he cleaned up his tackle box that he was pretty sure he had lost one of his hooks. A couple days later, sure enough, Spencer went running through the family room and suddenly started jumping and yelling, "Ow! Ow! Ow!" When I said, "Oh, yeah--Dad lost one of his fishing hooks," Spencer smiled and said, "Well, I guess I found it!" (Amazingly, he was still able to keep his sense of humor.)
He hung out on the couch til Rob got home to help us deal with the situation. Unfortunately, fish hooks can only go one direction... so Rob broke the news to Spencer that the hook would have to be pushed the rest of the way through. Chase was very sympathetic--and very interested--as he watched Spencer's bravery. No picture could really do justice to what Spencer had to endure (if you click on this picture and look closely at Spencer's face, it will give you a small glimpse, though). I started to offer some advice from my experiences in labor (relax... breathe in deep... breathe out slowly...) but then I just decided to shut up. =) Spencer has again shown us that he is one tough kid!!!

B.A.D.D.

2009-02-24T11:20:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one suffering from Blog Attention Deficit Disorder? I just hopped on to write something "real quick" and I get onto my blog and--oh, excitement!--someone has left a comment! Gotta read it!!! Oh, my sweet, long-lost friend--what nice things she wrote... How is she doing, anyway? Hop onto her blog "real quick"--oh, they're up to such fun things... Kids growing up so fast... fun events... birthdays... okay, I have to leave a comment on hers... I click on "post a comment" and--lo and behold--one of our mutual friends (another long-lost bud) has left a comment too... gotta go check out her profile... omygoodness, she has FOUR KIDS now??? How did that happen???!!! Okay, I have to leave her a comment too! How so very exciting this is!!! And look at her links! O wow--I didn't know that was her sis-in-law! Now I gotta check out just one more blog............

(And NO, this wasn't the post I was getting on here to do! Maybe I'll get to that tomorrow...?) AAAAGH! Too much fun!!!

2009-02-19T20:02:00.000-08:00

humility, n. knowing you are absolutely fantastic, and giving the credit to God.

I heard this definition given the other night at Ashlee's New Beginnings program, and I love it! So that's my thought for the day (okay, for the month... I know I don't update my blog as often as I'd like to!) =)

My Ashlee

2009-02-19T16:10:00.000-08:00

I just have to talk about Ashlee for a bit. This may get long... sorry! Well, first I have to write about a couple moments we had recently. On MLK Day I took her and Blake to the mall to spend some of their Christmas $$$. We went into Wet Seal to look around (an awkward little while for Blake--especially while Ashlee & I went to try on some things... He was such a good sport about it, though!!!) Anyway, we each had a few items, and the first thing I put on was gouchos that looked disgustingly hideous on me!!! I asked Ashlee if she wanted to see something gross, and she said, "Sure, I have some 'gross' to show you too." We were in dressing rooms right next to each other, so we both just stepped out. We shared a moment of laughter, me in my gouchos and her in her yellow ruffles... and then... Ashlee's door shut!!!! The look on her face was PRICELESS. Here we are, both in stuff we wouldn't want a single other human being to see, and it looks like we're gonna have to flip a coin to see who has to go ask the store worker to come open her door. Then she says, "Do you think I can fit under???" I look at the rooms and start laughing. But we decide it's worth a try--definitely a better choice than going out into the store!!! So she comes into my room, gets down like a seal, and goes for it!!! She really did look like a seal, scooting along, and... her butt got stuck for a brief moment... but she made it! I was doubled over laughing, with my hand over my mouth trying to stifle the sound, but not succeeding very well. WOW--that was funny!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The other moment we had last week was late one night, as I was attempting to help her finish a Romeo & Juliet assignment for her English class. The assignment was to rewrite a portion of the story as if it took place in the '70's. As we looked up some '70's lingo online, we were busting up over Romeo & Juliet using terms like "bogus," "spiffy," "totally," and "Rock-on!!!" I tried to get her to have Juliet ask Romeo if he had "let a gasser" (that term was on the list we found online =)), but she said her teacher told them to keep it appropriate. =) We were dying--it was so funny!!! Rob was in the other room watching TV, and he (later) told me that he had to mute the show for a moment and just listen to us. I guess it was quite a hoot. Sorry if you had to be there.... I just had to share!

lol

2009-02-19T15:45:00.000-08:00

This was truly a LAUGH-OUT-LOUD moment. Ashlee was getting ready for a football game (yes, this was back in October or so...) and she was "decorating" herself for the occasion. Our bishop's son, Layne, is one of her good friends, and was on the football team. She got fabric paint and put his name & number on her shirt, then headed for the bathroom to paint the numbers on her face. She came out and hesitantly asked if the numbers looked okay. I fell on the floor laughing at her backward "67." She was less-than-amused as I made her stand there while I snapped a picture. She found out the hard way that painting numbers on your face in front of the mirror is... really hard. =)

Arizona Christmas

2008-12-25T14:55:00.000-08:00

A Christmas Day event like this could only happen here in GOOD OL' ARIZONA!!! Chase decided the puddles from the recent rain were just too much to resist! One minute he's innocently strolling down Grandma & Grandpa's nice sidewalk, the next he's soaked from head to toe!!! So what else is there to do but grab the camera???

Just taking a stroll... right???

Moments later...

Forget all the new toys! All a kid really needs is a good puddle!!!

A little mud in the mouth never hurt anybody!

Doesn't this face just sum it all up??? PURE, SOAKING-WET JOY!!!

Making Friends

2008-12-05T13:29:00.001-08:00

Shortly after we moved in, while there was still a lot of talk about how the kids were doing making friends, Kaybree came to me one day and told me she had made another new friend. When she told me the little girl's name, I recognized it as one she had mentioned before. I asked her if it was the same girl she had told me about a few days earlier, and she said yes, but then she explained that now they were really friends, because they had asked each other if they wanted to be each other's friend. I realized that each time Kaybree told me that someone was her friend, it was only after an official invitation to be friends had been given. =) A few days later, during another similar conversation, Kaybree asked me, "Mom, how do you make friends?" As we went on talking it was funny to me to think that she thought of me having to go up to other women and ask them to be my friend. So cute!!!

Friends

2008-12-05T13:13:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of Kaybree with Ashley and Abby, two of the friends she had to leave behind when we moved. SAD DAYS!!! =(

New House

2008-12-05T12:52:00.000-08:00

Over the summer we moved to our new home. It's everything we've ever dreamed of--and more. This picture was taken during the finishing stages, a few weeks before we moved in. Rob was the contractor and did a lot of the work himself, along with the help of awesome family and friends. He wore himself out in the process--we were so happy when we finally got to the end. They say if a marriage can survive what you go through building a home together, it can survive anything. So I guess we passed that test!!! The fact that Rob survived it is amazing as well.

We love living in the "country" now, having so much space for the kids to run and play. The boys take off on their bikes and find jumps in various places nearby, and they can toss the ball in the backyard without it constantly ending up in the neighbors' yards. We have 2 miniature horses that just roam our backyard now, and we've recently planted fruit & citrus trees. Our next big project will probably be putting in a garden, but that can wait til after the Holidays...

Simon Says

2008-11-28T15:37:00.000-08:00

The other night the kids & I were jumping on the trampoline, which is a challenge when big kids and little kids are trying to jump at the same time. Chase (our undersized 3 year old) usually ends up on his bum a lot, or landing close to the edge, so I will often just hold him and jump. Well, we were trying to take turns--Chase, then everyone else, back and forth. After a little while, and when frustration had started building because everyone wanted to jump ALL the time, we decided to play "Simon Says." We took turns being Simon, and finally it was Chase's turn. Chase's first command was, "Simon says, everyone sit down." Want to guess his next one? "Simon says, WATCH ME JUMP!" =)

Here's the Deal

2008-11-23T19:31:00.000-08:00

Okay, here's the deal...(for those of you who have found it necessary to tease my blog) =)
Ashlee had Fall Break a few weeks back, so I thought that was a perfect time for her to make me a blog (since I would never get started on my own!) Well, she got it up & running, and then I figured I could get going on it when I got around to it. Little did I know the whole world would find it, because Ashlee had a LINK to it from hers!!! I guess I didn't specify to her that it was to be kept top secret until I had it ready! So, tease me all you want--I guess I deserve it! ;-)