Rejoice in Every Good Thing.....

Lizzy turns 8

2012-02-13T18:28:00.000-08:00

Lizzy opted for a big party this year to celebrate her 8th birthday. After talking about several different themes, we decided to just make pizza's and play games. The most popular game was fruit basket. The one where you sit in a circle and yell our a fruit and them try to steal the seat of whoever gets up. The kids kept playing that game for much of the night. I never got them all together for a picture at once, because it was the busiest, loudest, most crazy group of kids I've ever seen. Don't get me wrong... it was fun, but there was insane amount of energy at our home that evening.

Lizzy made me laugh because she kept sneaking away from the games and activities to play quietly in her room with a friend or two. Everytime I came to drag her back down, she relented happily (because she was being a very sweet birthday girl) but also commented that it was just so loud downstairs.

We decided afterward that Lizzy might be more of a small party type of girl. and I guess I'll probably be okay with that. :)

Christmas Day

2012-02-13T14:06:00.000-08:00

Forgive the pages of pictures... but I just love those happy faces.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

2012-02-13T11:43:00.000-08:00

A Laugh a Day

2012-01-17T19:05:00.000-08:00

I like New Years. I love the freshness of it, the clean slate, starting over sort of feel. I set a bunch of resolutions cause that's what I love to do. (I'm good at it too... making them that is... not so much on keeping them.....) Among my many resolutions... I also decided to pick a scripture. I picked a simple, but meaningful scripture to me. It is in John 16:33

Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

I love that. Not only is it our Father's wish for us, but when all is said and done... it's really what we all want. Everything we do, all day... is working toward the goal of happiness. So... I made it official and wrote it down and decided that everyday,I will look for cheer and joy and happiness. Not just for me, but for my family as well. I want to create a home that is a happy place to be. A place where people smile, and laugh and play together. I want my kids to look forward to getting home from school because they feel uplifted and simply... happy when they are here. I want for neighbors to feel comfortable stopping by because there is always a smile ready to greet them. I want Aaron to rush home from work, because he can't wait to get to our happy home. And I want to laugh... because.. .you know... it just feels good to laugh. A bit idealistic... I know... but there is nothing wrong with dreaming. I know it won't happen everyday, but I'll bet it happens more often than if I didn't dream it up.

I've laughed a bit more over the last few weeks. Sometimes I forget how very funny kids can be. A few that I want to remember:

* Lizzy asking me on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to make her a sandwich for lunch. She wanted to sandwich to spell out the words " I have a dream." I also smiled at her planning when she made me a schedule for my day. She figured that I needed to play more so she put in on my schedule from 5:00-5:20 each day.

* When we found a tiny little lizard skull in our garden, Andrew pulling me aside to ask me "don't you think we'd better call a paleontologist?

* Sam. Well everything about Sam is funny right now. The way he sings so many songs, but only sings the one line he knows like, "Five Golden Rings" and "Tommy Turkey" and "Joy to World." The way he gets the giggles when he is being chased. His insistance on doing just what Lizzy and Andrew do. Even if that means getting punished like them.

Be of good cheer. Wierd that I have to remind myself to do that. But so glad for the reminder....

Wise Men Still Seek Him

2011-12-22T09:35:00.000-08:00

Matthew 2:7-8

Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child.

The words "search diligently" kind of struck me the other night when I was reading this. It sounds like it wasn't easy to find the Savior that they wanted to go worship. They had to do more than google His name or run to the closest store. They had to make many sacrifices. They devoted, perhaps YEARS to find Him. And I started thinking about how even though this season is called 'CHRIST'MAS because it is a time to worship and remember Him... it is sometimes really HARD to find Him. It is sometimes really hard to tune out the commercials and the blaring lights. It is hard to wade through the busyness and commotion of parties and holiday cooking and of course shopping, shopping and more shopping. Not that any of those things are bad, but they do sometimes make the SEARCH a little harder. Isn't it a bit ironic that the time of year when we most need to tune out the world so that we can tune Him in... is also the busiest, most stressful time of year?

So I suppose all of that is part of the reason that I love this video so much. I love that these people, of all different ages and walks of life, fearlessly stood up in a busy, crowded mall and sang out their testimonies of our Savior. You can see how it touched the crowd. You can see how for a moment, what really matters was so clear that everything else faded away. I hope this video and this inspired song touch you as much as they have touched me this season.

The Mansion

2011-12-18T17:14:00.000-08:00

If you listened to President Monson's Christmas address this year or last year... you will remember that (both years) he referred to a famous short story by Henry van Dyke called "The Mansion".

At the end the main character questions the angel about what deeds on earth really count. The angels answers was touching to me and I wanted to share it this Christmas season.

"Only that which is truly given," answered the bell-like voice. "Only that good which is done for the love of doing it. Only those plans in which the welfare of others is the master thought. Only those labors in which the sacrifice is greater than the reward. Only those gifts in which the giver forgets himself."

If anyone wants to read the whole story it is pretty short (26 pages) and I would be happy to email it to you.

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-11-06T20:15:00.000-08:00

Busy Week

2011-10-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

Is it just me... or does October seem to be a crazy busy month? Well... I've felt busy all month, but this week we had an especially crazy week. On Friday I decided to call a "TIME-OUT". No outings, activities, shopping trips or "to-do" list. It was just me, Sam, do-nuts and a movie. Ahhh.. what a relief.

These are made from refridgerator biscuits and so we were able to whip them up in less than 5 minutes. No joke. They tasted great too.

See - we were takin' it so easy that Sam didn't even bother getting dressed yet.

And totally unrelated... but I saw this lizard through the window actually moulting his skin. I've never seen that before. Pretty awesome.

Odds and Ends

2011-10-05T15:02:00.000-07:00

Something awesome happened last week. All in one wonderful day... the weather turned nice. It is suddenly the most beautiful, pleasant weather one could ask for. The change immediately drove me out into my backyard that has been rarely visited all summer long. I weeded, planted my garden again and decided we needed to add something pleasant to the backyard. With no money in which to complete this project, I ended up rolling out our round table and throwing on a tablecloth. Simple but cozy, I think. I look forward to many dinners around this table this fall.

It was only coincidence that Sam was dressed this way when we decided to go work in the garden. Isn't he cute though? My little farm boy.

In the spring, I decided to try to figure out the CVS system and see if I could score some deals. My good friend Kim convinced me that it is indeed possible. I feel like I am finally getting the hang of it and to be honest, it is kind of addicting. This is my latest score. I spent $.47 plus tax on these items. This is expensive foundation ($12.50 a bottle). The other item (sorry if I'm embarrassing you) I didn't really need, but I actually made money on it, so I went ahead. I also came away with $12 in ECB's which are just like gift certificates for future spending at CVS.

Retail value of items: about $30
My out of pocket expense: 60 cents
ECB's used: $12
ECB's earned: $12

Conference

2011-10-05T12:29:00.000-07:00

I love conference. Twice a year we gather, all around the world, to hear the words of the prophet and other church leaders. Hearing them teach and testify is enriching, refreshing and inspiring. My kids love it too. Their love might have something to do with the fun of not going to regular church meetings that week (we watch via television or the interent)and perhaps something to do with these babies:

This is our conference Sunday traditional breakfast. We love 'em. Here is where you can go to see any that you missed. Here is my favorite talk. Enjoy.

Scripture Application

2011-09-27T11:37:00.000-07:00

Sam is crazy for toothpaste. He loves it. Because of this, I tend to find toothbrushes in strange places around the house and toothpaste tubes are almost always missing. Finding toothpaste in the carpet, however, is where I had to draw the line. We started putting our toothpaste up on shelves far out of Sam's reach.

A few nights ago Lizzy could not find the toothpaste and started to get upset. She hollered out to me... "Andrew didn't put the toothpaste where it goes and now I can't find it." She must have been tired because it seemed to be a pretty big deal and she was convinced of Andrew's guilt. I came in and searched on the shelf and showed her that it had just fallen behind some other items, but was in fact on the shelf. Before I said anything else Andrew jumped in and said, "Next time you should ask Lizzy. Don't you remember what's in the scriptures?"

This caught my interest because I couldn't remember any place in the scriptures where we are taught to "ask first" before getting mad. But Andrew was right. He reminded us in the Book of Mormon when the Lamanites attacked the Nephites because they thought that it was them who had stolen their daughters in the night (remember this story?). After many had already been killed in battle, the Nephite ruler had a chance to ask "why did you attack us?" Eventually the truth came out that it had in fact been the wicked Priests of King Noah who had stolen the Lamanite daughters.

So Andrew concluded, "you should find out before you try to start a war next time."

Wow. He was listening all along. Amazing.

Pick-me-up

2011-09-17T19:57:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, I had an unsuccesful dinner. Meaning, after a lot of time and effort, the dish I made flopped. No one liked it. Bummer. Big time. Maybe it was overall just a bad day because later on Lizzy asked me what was wrong. I think I said that I was just having a bad day. Gratefully, I am enormously blessed with incredibly sweet kids who decided to cheer me up. That night they made their deliveries.

Dear Mom, I love you. I know you have God's love.

Love, Andrew

I don't know where the poetic streak comes from. It's hilarious and adorable all in one. Bad day turned into good day. Thanks kids.

Good Ole' Texas

2011-09-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

Okay so we are in a drought down here in Texas. And the weather has been 100 plus degrees for a few months now. And there have been a lot of wildfires. So you all may be thinking... boy I'm glad I don't live there... but alas there is something that you do not know. We have something that you do not have. That something is BARBEQUE. I mean the real deal. Slabs of meat served on nothing but parchment paper and cooked with the greatest skill known to man. Aaron has been dying to go get a real taste of this stuff for quite some time, so we finally planned a trip to Austin, where the best places are said to be. We went with his resident group at work. The idea is in 2 days to cram as much BBQ into your bodies as humanly possible. I think some of these guys did a pretty good job at it.

Here we are at the first stop. City Market. Stacy and Emerson are on the right.

Stop #2 Kreuz Market. I was less hungry since it was only an hour past stop #1. But that did not stop Aaron or Eugene and Stacy.

The picture didn't turn out well, but this sign says "Vegetarians enter here. Normal folks, down the hall." ha ha.

This one was also pretty good.

After stuffing ourselves, we enjoyed a little down time at a Botanical Garden in Zilker park.

On to the next day. This place opens at 8:00 in the morning and usually sells out before lunch. We had to wake up early just to get a place in line. And when I say we, I mean Aaron and the others because the kids and I were tired and BBQ at 8:00 in the morning just doesn't get me going.

Dave, Tiffany, Jonathon, Aaron, Ryan and Kate at Snows.

A view of the outdoor smokehouse at Snow's. Yes.. that guy does appear to be holding a cigarette. Doesn't bother me... much.

That afternoon, the others went out to lunch, but we had over-eaten a bit, so instead Sam and I napped and Aaron and the kids went to the state capitol. I understood that it was mostly fun, but Lizzy DID not like going up the winding staircase. Much too high.

Oh and Texas has another thing going for it.... That's right.... football. If you like that sort of thing that is. It looks like a lot of people like that sort of thing.

We love you Texas.

Sam the Man

2011-09-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

This is what is going on at our house every Tuesday and Friday morning without fail. Can you guess what has him captivated? That's right. It's the garbage truck. Can I just tell you that the garbage men around here are the nicest I have ever known. Anytime they see him they wave and honk the horn. I swear they seem so happy. It almost makes me want to try out the job.

At a get-together with some friends, their oldest daughter had fun dressing Sam up and taught him to be a drummer. He loved it. And... he's pretty dang cute.

Trickster

2011-09-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

Andrew has become quite the trickster the last few weeks. Aaron and I have had several occasions where we have laid down to go to sleep at night and felt something hard in our pillows. We just look at each other and smile because we know.... it is Andrew playing tricks... AGAIN. Andrew has no problem telling us the next morning that he snuck out of bed to play a little trick. Oh... my boy!! :) I love his quirky sense of humor. He also likes to surprise us sometimes by putting play food into the refridgerator. What a laugh he got when I picked up a plastic strawberry and took a big bite out of it. "I got you Mom!!" He was so proud.

And his crafting projects are never never ending. Tonight, just after I finished tucking him into bed, he asked if I would bring him some scissors and paper. "No, it's bedtime." I told him. He looked disappointed and discouragingly said "Dang." It was silent for a moment, but then he brightened and looked at me again with a pleading expressions. "Well then, some glue?"

Not So Terrible Two

2011-09-06T11:28:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we celebrated Sam's 2nd birthday. His constant plea is to go outside so we decided to party it up at our community swimming pool. I love, love, love this pool and am so sad that it is closed for the season. We probably went swimming here 30 or more times this summer. We played and had cupcakes and then played some more. This is Sam with his friend Talmage (who he calls Tammy). Aren't they so cute?!?

And then I love this picture because I think it is almost a miracle that all 3 looked at the camera at the same time!

Lizzy and Andrew were so cute and insisted on getting Sam presents "just from them." Lizzy had some money that her Grandma gave her. So she bought Sam this box of M&M's. So sweet. She also made him a magic wand. It is made by tying a piece of yarn to the end of a stick. It was a big hit.

Andrew, not having any money, decided to create a picture for Sam. It's a bad photograph, but he actually gathered grass and leaves and glued them onto the paper to create a summer picture.

Happy birthday Sammy!!!

Right now Sam is.....

Trying to talk. Even though we struggle to understand most of what he says, he is pretty persistent in pointing, dragging you or somehow otherwise conveying his meaning. Almost everything he says sounds a lot like BeBea. That covers baby, airplane, missy and breakfast. I am convinced that he understands EVERYTHING we say and is saying all of it back to us... we just need to get to where we understand him.

Learning: Sam does everything that Lizzy and Andrew do. He copies their songs, their antics, he leaps from high places and climbs up places that no 2 year old should be. Our constant answer to Andrew's question of "why can't I?" is "because Sam will copy you."

He copies me as well. A few days ago I had some gravy simmering on the stove. Sam ran over and reached up high to grab a measuring cup from the drawer. I let it go because measuring cups can't cause too much trouble. ha. A few minutes later he pushed a chair up to the stove and climbed up to help me cook. Also... not much concern... he does it all the time. Then, he took his measuring cup which he had filled with rice and dumped the entire cup full into my gravy. Ummm.... thanks for your help, buddy.

Cute. Sam is cutest right before bedtime. Kisses and night-nights to everyone in the family. I also love how he prays. He used to kneel down and put his head on the floor. Now he tries to copy Dad and kneels on one knee with the other knee bent upward to rest his little arms on. It is so adorable.

Loving: He loves Winnie the Pooh, his Dad, anything outside, swimming, FOOD, Lizzy and Andrew and airplanes.

We love Sam so much. He is our entertainment and joy. He is our challenge and sometimes our example. Our family would not be complete without this little boy keeping us busy. Happy birthday.

1st Day

2011-09-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

School started last week. It was easy peasy for Lizzy. She is a pro now. She talked Andrew through the whole thing. She explained how you have to be quiet in the halls... how you get to have PE and music time and conduct marks are bad. She boldly walked into the school and then straight to her classroom. She found her desk and then hugged me goodbye and then... only for a second... she looked scared. New room, new kids, new teacher...... and then it was over... and she LOVED it.

Lizzy with her cute teacher. I wish my picture had turned out better :)

Last spring, when we first started talking to Andrew about Kindergarten, he was not a fan. He constantly expressed worry... especially about getting in trouble. Lizzy had told too many stories and he was worried about the whole thing. Not to mention that I was worried too... because I don't like all day Kindergarten. I want to ease my kids in a bit more. I don't like the idea of him being away from home for 5 hours a week last year and this year... it quickly jumps to 40 hours a week. Too much all at once. But we had no choice.... and so... we got ready. And that's all it took, for Andrew at least. I don't know what won him over more... his backpack (big kid sized) or his adorable lunch box (shaped like a truck). After those purchases, it was nothing but excitement. We even had a countdown chain for him.

This kid used to sleep in til 7:30 or 8:00 every morning, and then after that he moved very, very S-L-O-W-L-Y but the past two weeks, he has awaken around 6:30 and been dressed and ready to go easily on time. He even wanted to ride the bus the second day. I was all ready to drive him for a few days, but he moved on quickly. :( I'm sure it won't last, but the transition has been smooth so far. Andrew loves school and his Mom loves that he loves it.

Oh and I love his teacher. Sweet and gentle... just right for Andrew.

Women I Admire

2011-09-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

One of my biggest priorities amidst all of the partying this summer was to visit my Grandma's. Both of my Grandma's are now widows. Grandma G having lost her husband only a few months ago. I love my Grandma's so much and want my kids to know them as well. As they get older and their health declines I feel like my time is limited. I need to glean all I can from these amazing women.

Grandma F. was a war bride. Isn't that awesome? I love her stories. Like how she and a friend wanted to see their husbands who were stationed in California. They hopped on a train but had no money and ended up spending the night sleeping in a boxcar. She has lived through a lot. Joy and of course sorrow has been a part of her life. One thing I love about my Grandma is that she is optimistic and joyful to be around. She can mention the fact that her hands are so crippled that she can no longer open a can, as flippantly and lightly as if she was telling me she missed her favorite TV program. She just does the best with what she's got ..... and always has. She seems to be one of those people who knows what matters most and lives life with those priorities. She makes time for people and for love and for friendship.

I love this picture because Grandma forgot that she left her curlers in. After she realized it, she insisted on a retake. Grandma G. was married to my Grandpa for nearly 70 years. They raised 7 children. She lives the simple life that I sometimes envy. She makes her own bread (even now) and gets her milk from the dairy up the road. She is good down to the core of her. You can just feel it. She is gentle and patient in a way that I can't even imagine. I remember her telling me how my Dad used to have such a hard time going to sleep when he was little. She used to sit and hold his hand until he fell asleep. She did this until he was THREE. She said she finally had to draw a line when he was three because of course she had another child or two by then. My patience would have lasted a night or two max. Not three years.

When my Grandpa got sick, Grandma got sick too. She seemed to decline right along with him, almost as if she was enduring everything right along with him... just like she did in life. When I saw her this summer I expected to see her in poor health and with her failing memory getting worse. Instead I found my Grandma doing very well. Her memory was better than it has been in a long time, and she seemed almost sprightly as she fluttered around taking care of her guests. She joked with us. She proudly showed me her book of mormon and told me of the goal she set to read it this year. Even with her failing eyesight, she said she doesn't think she's too old to stop learning yet.... and so she will persevere. She does what she still can for herself and graciously accepts the help offered. She still likes to walk, cook, read, attend church and never misses "Little House on the Prairie." I begged her to tell my kids the Indian tales she used to tell me. She is one heck of a story teller. I admire her spunk and her wisdom.

And so it continues....

My Grandma's were and are courageous women who sacrificed much to raise their families and teach them right from wrong. They made my parents the amazing people that they are. My parents then sacrificed so much for me and my siblings. They passed on those great truths again and in turn made me who I am. Now it's my turn. I only hope and pray to live up to what these women have taught. Their legacy is now my goal and it's a beautiful thing.

More Summer Fun

2011-08-30T11:09:00.000-07:00

Because I am being orderly about this... and cannot blog about the 1st day of school until I have finished off blogging about the summer... I am now forced to do a mighty "what we did this summer" post. Hold on to your hats...

Aaron's family has the dry farm tradition (see previous post) and my family usually comes up with some exciting adventure, usually a camping trip. This year however, with 6 kids under 2 years we decided to do more of a "stay-cation". It ended up being just as much fun.

The first day of staycation Grandma took the BIG girls out to lunch while Grandpa took the BIG boys to Thanksgiving point. Everyone had a great time.

The next day we spent playing at liberty park. I love this picture of them hanging out on a rock.

We had a fun family barbeque that night and games for the kids. Grandma was awesome and put together a fish pond and pinata for the kids.

We roasted marshmellows and camped out in Grandma and Grandpa's backyard. I might decide that I like camping with running water and easy access to a kitchen. :)

On the last day, we all went up to snowbird and spent the day jumping, climbing, sliding and riding across the mountain ranges. It was truly a beautiful day. I love the mountains and love them even more when my family is there to enjoy them with me.

Although I know we did lots more and these are only things I happen to snap pictures of... but also wanted to mention how much fun we had...

Walking in the 4th of July parade with Aaron's family's ward.

Hiking up Milcreek Canyon.

Eating out at Red Iguana. WITH NO KIDS.

Kids playing in the back of Grandpa's pick-up.

We also loved: Fireworks, food, laughing, riding horses (thanks Kristin), swimming with friends (thanks Kalleen), eating some more, hanging out, watching movies, visiting Grandma's, water slides, bouncy houses and pretty much every fun summer thing we could think of. And now... back to real life. I guess that's nice sometimes too.

Dry Farm

2011-08-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

Almost every year since Aaron and I were engaged, we have joined Aaron's family at the dry farm. Which means, I think, that it is farmland that is not actually used for growing crops. For us it means that this spot belongs to his family and over the years has evolved to make the perfect camping spot. Kids can run free with little concern about dangers. The "long drop" or porta-potty is set up with a privacy shield and a pipe run through the spring provides fresh drinking water. It's awesome.

Here are some essential things that make the dry farm what it is.

#1 Kids must get really dirty.

This place is named "the dirt hill" . It got that name because it is, in fact, a hill of dirt.

#2 You must eat insane amounts of food. I mean really WAY too much food. I don't actually have any pictures of the eating, because usually I am a little bit too busy.... well.... eating. But this is the dining fly where it all takes place.

#3 Dogs. There have to be a lot of dogs.

#4 Uncle teasing. When I first joined the family I was warned about "the uncles". There are quite a few of them. But, turns out, it's really not so bad. Especially now that my kids are the focus of the teasing. Here is Uncle Les pretending to sleep... naturally, the kids decide to tie him up.

Get him good!

Here is my nephew Milo, anxiously waiting for him to awaken and discover what they have done.

Oh no. You're going to get it now.

#5 Every year someone brings some wierd new addition to the party. This year it was this enormous camp chair. Awesome.

#6 We always devote a lot of time to spotting cool wildlife. We've seen beavers, deer, moose an eagle nest and this year, we saw this badger.

#7 Beautiful scenery.

#8 And then, of course, there's family. Lots and lots of wonderful family.

Happy camping!! We love this place.

Planking

2011-08-17T17:35:00.000-07:00

Okay so.... I know that planking is dumb. But sometimes I get in the mood for some plain 'ole silliness. And it is really a good feeling to have such powerful convincing skills that you can get someone to try this.

Me: Hey. I want to take a picture of you planking.
Other person: Huh? What does that mean?
Me: Well you just lay down on your belly on any surface you choose and stay real stiff like a board.
Other person: Huh? Why would I do that?
Me: Because it's just a cool thing to do.
Other person: Are you kidding me?
Me: No seriously. It's so awesome. Just try it.

And then....

a taker.

Everyone agreed that it was, in fact, awesome. Or atleast really really funny. Or atleast entertaining for 20 minutes or so. You should try it. Seriously.

P.S. Please vote for the planker with the best technique.
P.P.S. Some of these photos may not actually be mine. But I wish they were.

Sweet Summer

2011-08-15T20:28:00.001-07:00

Create your own picture slideshow

2011-08-14T13:47:00.000-07:00

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

— Maya Angelou

Occasionally I run across a quote that seems to shift my perspective entirely. Something that, for whatever reason, strikes a chord and resonates with me. This quote is that to me. I found this quote several months back and wrote it down and lived in it's glow for a week or two, but then we left on vacation and it left my mind. We had a wonderful vacation, but there was a continual nagging that I had left something behind and forgotten something essential. When I got home and found this quote again where I had written it, I felt refreshed again as my picture of who I want to be came into focus once more. Having this quote on my mind helps me to speak more gently, be more thoughtful, sacrifice more time and love more fully. I need this reminder.

As a quote collector... I would love to know... what quote inspires, motivates or "puts things into focus" for you?

Coolest Dad EVER!!

2011-06-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

Since our Dad is so awesome, we borrowed some Chuck Norris quotes to make sure he knew it this father's day. The kids had a blast making up a few of their own and even some toys got in on the

action. Happy Father's Day Aaron. We love you.

And while we are on the topic....

Happy Fathers day Dad. I love you lots.

Happy Father's Day Paul. I love you lots.

Happy Father's Day to my brothers, brothers-in-law and all you awesome dad's out there.

Success at Last

2011-06-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

I've always wanted to have a garden. The idea of walking outside and picking some fresh vegetables to add to dinner seems so quaint and charming and well... inexpensive. I have tried several times over the last years. But TRIED is the key word because each time... I have failed. Or very nearly failed. When we moved to Texas, I set out (without a lot of confidence) to build my little garden box and plant away. Texas has nearly a year-round planting season. I had a few crops come in last fall, but nothing much. But then this spring... SUCCESS AT LAST.

Well... as successful as a little 4X4 box can be. But I must say it is thrilling to check each morning and see little buds popped up over night and, now, to see new fruit has emerged or ripened. It is a miracle to observe.

For dinner last night we had taco salad's. From our garden.... onions, lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers. Delish.

Now I just need help knowing what to do with my excess cucumbers and tomatoes. It isn't enough to can. Any ideas? So far.. most of the cucumbers that we didn't use in salads went into these yummy shakes. My sister told me to try these a few weeks ago and we have now had one almost everyday.

The basic recipe is 60% fruit, 40% veggies. Then cover it with juice (or milk) and blend it up.

Fruits we have tried: apples, oranges, bananas, kiwis, strawberries, pineapple and peaches.

Veggies we have tried: Spinach, cucumbers, carrots (didn't like this so much), zucchini and squash.

Liquids we have tried: milk, orange juice, apple juice.

Andrew and Sam guzzle these drinks.... and we have fun naming them depending on the color they turn out to be. So far we have lucky drink (green ones) and sunshine drink (orange ones).

And here is my other latest discovery. Homemade mayonnaise. I didn't even know you could do that. Kind of a cool chemical reaction when you blend the eggs and oil in the right way. Awesome. Since we like homemade ranch dressing, and my family tends to go through ranch dressing incredibly quickly... this is a great find for when I run out of mayonnaise. I haven't decided yet if it is cheaper than buying mayo, but I am still excited about it.

So what's next? Does anyone have some fun cooking suggestions that I should try? Especially involving veggies. Please share.

Parenting Dillemas

2011-06-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

Dear parents,

These may or may not be my current parenting dilemma's. Please advise.
#1 Mom and Dad think it would be great for child "A" to be involved in sports. Child "A" is not so interested. Do they
a) Insist they he/she participate
b) Bribe or otherwise convince child
c) Let it go and assume the kid can choose for himself/herself

#2 Child "L" is taking piano lessons and through a variety of excuses manages to spend 15 minutes out of his/her 20 minute practice time doing things other than practice the piano. Should mom
a) start the timer over every time
b) endlessly hound her child to "get back to that piano bench"
c) Figure that I'm lucky to get 5 minutes and let it go.

#3 Child "S" screams his/her head off when he/she doesn't get what he/she wants. It is painful and sometimes embarrassing. Should mom
a) stick something in mouth to make him/her be quiet
b) refuse to give the desired object and listen to the child wail
c) other (you fill in the blank).

Thanks for your help.

Rachelle

Questions from Andrew

2011-06-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

#1 Do fish ever get sea sick?

#2 Do they just get really old people who are about to die... to go catch the tigers and bears and stuff?

#3 Well then how do they catch animals?
#4 Can fish see outside of water?

#5 Do I look like a probiscus monkey?

#6 What is that thing called?

#7 What is a current?

#8 What is a current in the artic ocean?

Simple Dinnertime

2011-06-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

sim·plic·i·ty

[sim-plis-i-tee]

–noun, plural -ties.

1. the state, quality, or an instance of being simple.

2. freedom from complexity, intricacy, or division into parts: an organism of great simplicity.

3. absence of luxury, pretentiousness, ornament, etc.; plainness: a life of simplicity.

Back in April... we went strawberry picking at a local farm and then played in the park. For dinner I grabbed a loaf of homemade artisan bread and a block of cheese and of course our bucket full of fresh strawberries. Wallah... it couldn't have been easier and it was honestly delicious and filling.
I think fancy meals and elaborate surprises are wonderful. Who doesn't? But sometimes there is a sweeter pleasure in just having a few basics and enjoying them fully. Besides... eating bread and cheese for dinner made me feel European or something - which is kind of cool... right?

Another Year Gone

2011-05-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it. ~Russel Baker

Preschool is over and Lizzy has less than 2 days of school left now. My thoughts on the subject include a bit of everything.

"YIPPEEE... it's summertime!"

"Oh no... what are we going to do ALL summer?"

"I can't wait for our trip to Utah (being in Utah)."

"I am dreading our trip to Utah (the trip)."

"Hurray... the pools are open!"

"Oh... how can we endure the humidity?"

"Could Lizzy possibly be on her way the 2ND GRADE?"

(Lizzy receiving recognition at her assembly for her many accomplishments. I'm especially proud that she was one of the fastest runners in her grade this year. She didn't get that from me.)

"Didn't Andrew look cute in his graduation robe?"

"Is it time to spring for a swimming pool to play with in the backyard instead of our cooler?"

How many trips to the beach can we fit into one summer?

(We've got a good start already).

Happy Summer!

Happy Birthday, Happy Easter and Happy Saturday Afternoon

2011-05-15T14:29:00.000-07:00

April and May seem to always be busy. Busy, busy busy. My blog has suffered and so now I'm playing catch-up. Please forgive this scattered post.

Happy birthday Aaron.

I love sidewalk chalk.

Our friends hosted a great Easter event. Here are the kids about to set out on their hunt.

Journal Entry July 20, 2010

2011-04-07T11:18:00.000-07:00

I keep a journal where some of my more private thoughts are housed. I've never shared from it before, but I recently re-read this post and thought that it may be worth sharing. I need this reminder again and maybe someone else out there does as well.

It's also funny that I wrote this because I don't remember feeling quite so bleak during the move. I guess this was a dark moment or something....

July 20, 2010

I’m a Texan now. Yes. I live in Texas. It’s been a mighty change. You might say. So here I am, and I’ve decided that I’m almost finished pitying myself and feeling sorry for how lonely and unloved I am here in lonely, hot, buggy, flooding Texas. I have been praying and praying lately…. Just for strength, or knowledge about how to become happy again. This morning, kind of like a revelation, I received the answer and it is mind boggling. Sit down because this is going to knock you over. The answer is….

WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND.

It seems that I have heard that somewhere before, but it feels all new to me. So here is what I want:

I want to be loved.

I want to have friends.

I want to be respected.

I want to have a spirit of peace and calm surrounding me.

I want to have my kids listen to me.

So here is what I need to do.

Give love.

Be a friend.

Respect others.

Seek for the Spirit.

Listen to others.

It is so easy. But so often I, and I suspect others, try to get what they want by demanding it, or pleading for it and then being so hurt when we are not respected. But now, in retrospect, I can see how this has happened. As I have been stressed and overwhelmed with this move and our new home, I have become more impatient with the kids. I have stopped taking the time to talk to them and listen to them and respect them for the unique and special individuals that they are. And then I am baffled when they do not respect me or listen to me or show me the love that I want. Of course this is not all so bad as I am writing here… we are generally speaking a happy little family, but things have just been a little bit ‘off’ lately. I feel that this is the course for getting back ‘on’. Isn’t it wonderful how something so simple can be learned again in a new and exciting way. I really feel excited. And filled with hope. Hope is a very good thing.

Personal Chef

2011-03-23T10:24:00.000-07:00

I know you all wish that you had a personal chef to help you everyday, but I'm sorry... he's mine.

Spring Break and Being a Nice Mom

2011-03-22T19:24:00.000-07:00

Spring break. It has come and gone already. We enjoyed our break so much. Most of the time, we just stayed home and enjoyed being home, but Aaron took off the last few days and we found a few fun things to do on those days as well.

We went to the Houston carnival and rodeo one day. It was fun... but...

1. Does anyone else have trouble shelling out $3-5 for each ride? Seriously. We may be cheap, okay... we ARE cheap, but I feel physically ill when I see how much things cost there. Not just because they cost a lot, but because they are not worth it. Is there such a thing as a $7 corn-dog that is actually worth $7?

2. As a result we spent our carnival trip trying to guide the kids toward the cheap rides, the free livestock show and away from the $15 toys. That means far too many times that day, I used the grumpy mommy words. No. Nope. Sorry... not today. No way.

We had fun. Really we did. But I much more enjoyed our camping trip the next day, in which I could say YES!! I like it when I can say "YES".

Yes. You can tie Daddy to a pole and pretend that you captured him.

Yes. You can spend the morning fishing. Just take the kids with you.

Yes. You can play in the mud and get really dirty.

Sure. Invite the neighbors over and pile in the hammock.

Yes. You may certainly spend the entire afternoon climbing a pole. If you want to.

Yes again. Canoeing is a yes.

Yes. You can sit around watching the moon move across the lake. Because we would all be happier people if we sat by a moonlit lake a little more often.

Yes. You may scream and yell every time you catch a fish. Because frankly... it was awesome that you caught 10 fish in one morning.

And yes. You may even play in alligator infested water. Now aren't I a nice mommy?

I wish I had taken a picture of our friends that we played with all weekend. After we finished putting up our tent we looked around and realized that we had set up camp right next to some friends from our church. It was awesome. We had so much fun playing together. They have the cutest kids in the world and Lizzy decided that next time we go camping, we are calling these guys first. They were the ones who taught me that there are alligators in all lakes in southern Texas. And I guess people down here are cool with that. So... I wasn't kidding that there was a little alligator swimming around right behind where Sam and I were playing. I guess I'm not Texas enough to be totally calm about it. We did move away from the shoreline after I saw the little guy. But other campers nearby were swimming out into the lake and didn't seem to mind it.

Overall it was a get diry, have fun, eat too much candy, be loud and have fun type of weekend. It was a "yes" weekend. I loved it.

Smart Kid

2011-03-17T12:26:00.000-07:00

Sam isn't talking a whole lot yet, but he is certainly very capable of making me understand what he wants. For example...a few days ago I was cleaning out my pantry and I dropped this on the floor:

Sam got super excited and started jabbering away. I didn't pay a lot of attention as he toddled off in a big hurry carrying his discovery. A few minutes later he came back also carrying this:

He then ran away again and came back this time with a spoon.

After getting my attention (which he does by yelling at the top of his lungs).... he showed me what he wanted. He put the package of noodles into the pan and then used the spoon to pretend to stir them.

Okay. I get it buddy. I get it. Ramen noodles for lunch it is.

Stuff to Talk About

2011-03-16T12:20:00.000-07:00

I once had a roommate who was beautiful and had a date like EVERY SINGLE weekend. She dated a lot, but seemed to go through guys quickly. None of the guys lasted very long, even though, to me... they seemed ideal. One day I learned just what it was that she was so afraid of. It wasn't commitment, or that she was super picky... it was that they ran out of things to talk about. Even after meeting THE ONE she got scared for awhile. She felt good about things, but continued to be afraid. WHAT IF WE RUN OUT OF THINGS TO TALK ABOUT???

I think I just laughed at the time, but the thought kind of stayed with me and I have remembered that many times since. Really... it would be horrible to run out of things to talk about. What if 3 years into your marriage... you pretty much exhaust every topic and can't think of a thing to say to each other?? That would be awful.

But I got married anyway and after Lizzy was born I quit my job and stayed home to take care of my baby. Then the issue re-surfaced. Because at the end of the day, I sometimes couldn't think of anything exciting to tell my hubby. I didn't think he wanted to know how many times she'd pooped that day or what I had managed to clean while she napped. My life seemed DULL. So... I started watching the news, took a class, made some friends and somehow we made it through.

My point is... that it all seems funny to think about NOW because life gets busier and busier and now we don't have enough time to talk about what we NEED to talk about. Now I find myself having too much to tell him and often forgetting much of it.

So here are a few things we've talked about or that I need to remember to discuss with hubby sometime soon:

1. What are we doing for spring break? Are we going to Kemah tomorrow or to the rodeo? Where are we going camping? What food should I pack?

2. What should we do about Andrew? It has been a week and he still looks like this.

3. Don't worry, I got Sam into the dentist and they said that although it is unusual to see a tooth knocked out so completely at only 18 months old... he should be fine but will need a fake tooth once his molars come in.

4. You need to stop buying snacks at work because we are WAY over budget this month.

5. Sam stuck a credit card into the CD player in the van and now it doesn't work.

6. Don't forget to pick the kids up from the neighbors tonight because I am chaperoning the Young Women to the temple today.

7. I sent cards to your 3 cousins getting married this month... don't worry I signed your name.

8. How should we spend our tax return $$?

9. I bought a zoo membership on a whim and we have been having a great time... you don't mind do you? (ummm... over budget..... I know.)

10. Guess what... Lizzy practiced the piano today with NO ARGUING. It was a miracle.

11. What do you want for your birthday? It is coming up you know.

12. Since I won't be home tonight and tomorrow is St. Patty's day... could you maybe help the kids set out the paint to catch the leprechauns... like we do every year?

And last but not least...

13. After I get home tonight... do you maybe want to just sit together silently for awhile and not talk about a SINGLE SOLITARY THING?

Okay then. Love you.

Grand-Dad

2011-03-03T10:57:00.000-08:00

My Dad, Lizzy, Grandpa and Grandma

My Grandpa passed away last week. It's amazing how peaceful such a thing can be, when it is coupled with a knowledge that he lives on and his relationships live on.

Someone at the funeral made a comment that the death of loved ones tends to make the veil thin and causes us to readjust our priorties as we consider on the bigger picture of life. I have pondered more on eternal things this week and wanted to write a few thoughts.

One thing at the funeral that was addressed by nearly every speaker was the relationship between Grandma and Grandpa. Marriages seem so flippant now a'days. It seems to be entirely okay to move from one marriage to the next looking for fulfillment and happiness that your previous spouse couldn't provide. It's about GETTING something out of your marriage and rarely about what you GIVE.

But then there are beautiful examples like Grandma and Grandpa who would have been married 70 years this year. They gave and gave to each other.  Grandpa always treated Grandma with tenderness they said. My uncle said that he can remember speaking disrespectfully to his mother one time, and has not forgotten it because of the rebuke he received from his Dad.   Grandpa worked long hard hours to provide for his family. They raised 7 children together. The first 4 were born while they still lived in, what is now, the garage of their home.  When Grandpa opened up his mechanic shop... Grandma was by his side. She ordered parts and ran all over town getting what he needed. They served each other for so many years that it became who they were. Not kind acts, but kind people. They grew to be one. When Grandpa got sick, Grandma didn't leave his side. Infact, she got sick too. Maybe they were so united that his pains became hers as well.

Just before the funeral as they closed the casket, Grandma went over to say goodbye to Grandpa. She said... remember you said that you'd come back to get me soon. Don't take too long.

Grandma and Grandpa had something real. Something lasting. They found happiness not because of what they got from each other, but because of what they gave.

And in the end, I want what they have.  I'm grateful that they have showed me how to get there.

I'm grateful for the legacy left by my Grandpa.

Rae H. Goodrich 1919-2011

More Birthday

2011-02-14T20:14:00.000-08:00

Andrew and I love to snuggle. He can't sit still for more than 30 seconds, so it usually doesn't last long, but it is one of our favorite things.

Andrew loves to makes things. Everyday he wants to know if he can do a "project". If I had unlimited supplies, he would literally be able to work on one project after another all day long.

Andrew is unselfish. When he got a box of candy from his Grandma.. he literally went through every piece of candy in the box and gave one to Lizzy, one to Andrew... one to Lizzy... and so forth. No gratitude required... just giving cause that's what he does.

Andrew is 5.

Andrew wants to be "watched". No matter how many times he shows me that he can jump from the top of the slide, down to our beanbag chair... he wants me to watch each time, because he can do it a little higher or twist a little differently. How many times a day do I hear, "Mom... you weren't watching. I'll do it again."

Did I mention that Andrew is 5?

Andrew stays mad for like 30 seconds. Infact he can't even remember anger longer than that. Last week he got mad and left dinner and stomped up to his room. He was gone for most of dinner and we thought he must be pretty mad this time. Aaron decided to go and convince him to come back. When he knocked on his door, he found him happily playing with his toys. When he came back down he confessed that he'd forgotten he was mad and started playing He-man. He couldn't even remember why he'd been angry.

When Andrew plays He-man, he makes everyone, even Skeletor be on the "good side".

.... and now my little boy is really and truly and honestly 5 years old.

He is still my little boy and seems so little in so many ways. I am having difficulty accepting that he is 5. In only 6 months, he will be gone to school ALL DAY. The house will be so quiet. The art basket will stay clean and organized. And boy oh boy...how lonely I will be for my little guy.

Happy Birthday!

Birthday Fever

2011-02-09T19:31:00.000-08:00

It's been a few weeks since Lizzy's birthday. She left for school that morning happy and cheery, but when she got off of the school bus, she looked miserable and apparently she was. She had a fever that did not completely leave her for a full week. Every night she was in bed by 6:00 and usually had a 2-3 hour nap each day as well. She never sleeps like that... so I knew this was the real deal. It kind of put a damper on her birthday, but we managed to celebrate a bit despite the illness.

This girl amazes me. I honestly feel like she makes me a better person. She tries so hard to do what is right and it is entirely humbling to have my ~~6 year old~~ 7 year old teach me in so many ways. Her compassion, her obedience and her laughter are blessings every day in my life.

Happy Birthday. We love you Lizzy.

Very big thank you's to Grandma's, Grandpa's, cousins and uncles, aunts etc. for the wonderful gifts, cards and phone calls. You made it a special day for Lizzy.

I continue in my attempt to make an attractive birthday cake and continue to fail miserably. Every year I say that I am done... it just isn't my thing... but every year I somehow end up torturing myself with it again. But Lizzy liked it. That's what matters. Right? At what age will my kids realize that Mom is not good at everything and in fact STINKS at some things? That is when this cake thing will have to stop. :)

Unreasonable

2011-01-24T06:18:00.000-08:00

I know it is unreasonable.

.... and unfair.
.... and immature

But I am still just mad at my toddler. Mad. Disgusted. And entirely put out.

Then he smiles at me.

"No... don't even try to be cute. We are not friends."

Then he has the nerve to start doing that totally cute babbling thing.

"As if that'll work..."

Then he climbs onto my lap and rests his head on my shoulder.

Ohhhh.....too powerful..... cannot.... resist......

So... I have decided that I will forgive him just this once. But next time... he will not be getting off
so easily. Because starting my day at 4:30 in the morning is not in the game plan.

Officially Adorable

2011-01-16T12:57:00.000-08:00

My sister in law, Alaina, loves babies. She can smell a baby from a mile away and she will find him and hold him. And she will charm him. Make him smile or sleep when no one else can. She has this thing with babies.

I, on the other hand... have a thing for toddlers. Not a talent, per se but I'm just drawn to them. I love 'em. And lucky me... I now have one. He's always been cute and lovable and sweet, but he has now entered this new stage and is officially adorable.

I love watching his little personality start to emerge. I love how he explores things. How a dishwasher, a shoe closet or a bookshelf suddenly become fascinating.

It delights me when I see language starting to emerge. When, for the first time, he is able to communicate something and I get it and we connect... for a moment... we understand each other.

I love that he has learned that a hug or a kiss can get him whatever he wants.

He wants to do everything his big brother and sister are doing.

I love the way that he comes to me and puts his arms up, asking to be picked up. Then he'll grab my shirt and start pushing and pulling it, trying to guide me to what he wants.

He imitates everything. Anytime I start cooking, he'll immediately go to where we keep the stool and start to tug and grunt until I get it out for him. He'll then push it around until he gets it where he wants it and he'll climb right up. If I am washing dishes... he is beside me with water splashing. If I am stirring, then he needs a spoon as well. If I am using the blender, he hates it, but he'll still stand next to me and yell until it is over.

Everything, everything about this kid is adorable.

Well... almost everything.

Hickor'nut Spirit

2011-01-14T05:39:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been on this kick of re-reading some of my favorite books. I'm in the middle of this one right now and remember why I like to so much. It is an autobiography of a boy who's parents both died and so was raised by his Indian Grandparents. Every culture of course has its unique aspects, but I love to find the ways that we are all the same. Truth is truth and although people may explain it differently or use different imagery... when truth is spoken... it tends to resonate. It is universal regardless of the cultural context.

I love this truth taught to Little Tree by his Granma:

Granma said everybody has two minds. One of the minds has to do with the necessaries for body living. You had to use it to figure how to get shelter and eating and such like for the body...... She said we had to have that mind so as we could carry on . But she said we had another mind that had nothing atall to do with such. She said it was the spirit mind. Granma said if you used the body-living mind to think greedy or mean; if you was alays cuttin' at folks with it and figuring how to material profit off'n them.... then you would shrink up your spirit mind to no bigger'n a hickor'nut. ....

In such case, you lost your spirit complete. That's how you become dead people. Granma said you could easy spot dead people. She said dead people when they looked at a woman saw nothing but dirty; when they looked at other people they saw nothing but bad; when they looked at a tree they saw nothing but lumber and profit; never beauty. Granma said they was dead people walking around.

Granma said that the spirit mind was like any other muscle. If you used it it got bigger and stronger. She said the only way it could get that way was using it to understand, but you couldn't open the door to it until you quit being greedy and such with your body mind. Then understanding commenced to take up, and the more you tried to understand, the bigger it got. Natural, she said, understanding and love was the same thing.

I see right out that I was going to commence trying to understand practical everybody, for I sure didn't want to come up with a hickor'nut spirit.

See what I mean?? Truth. Reminds me of Mosiah 3:19 and 1 Corinthians 2:14.

Beautiful. And who wants a hickor'nut spirit anyway?

Problem Solved

2011-01-11T15:24:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah..... that's what I needed.

2010 in Review

2011-01-09T18:00:00.000-08:00

A tradition that seems to be sticking. Here is my year in review for 2010.

What did you do in 2010 that you have never done before?

I made a baseball cake. I bought a house. I hosted Thanksgiving dinner at my home. I took my kids to Disneyland. I visited Bryce Canyon and Arches. I lived in Texas. Along with that..I survived humidity beyond anything I have ever known, it also means that I wore shorts and flip-flops throughout December. I sent my kid off on a school bus. I made a "homemaking binder" including a cleaning schedule and have stuck to it for about 3 months. I killed a lot of cockroaches. I tried "gumbo" and liked it.

Did you keep your news years resolutions and will you set more for next year?

Yes and no. I did good for about 6 months.. then seemed to forget. Now I don't even remember what I set. I'm going to write a few here because next year I will not be able to use that as an excuse.

1. read to Sam everyday
2. exercise at least 2 times a week
3. MONTHLY temple attendance
4. Complete at least 1/2 of my Personal Progress goals (I serve in the Young Women's program)
5. I'd also like to set a goal that has something to do with this post that I really liked. It's about learning to speak more positively to and about everyone in my life, including myself.
Did anyone close to you give birth?
My brother had is baby sealed to him. My cute neighbor had a baby only a few days ago.  Kenny and Ann..... probably a few more. Last year there were 4 births in mine and Aaron's immediate family and at least a dozen good friends that gave birth. I can only think of a handful this year. An off year I guess.

Did anyone close to you die? Aaron's Uncle Lynn.

What county did you visit? None but the good ole' US of A.

What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010? A full night of sleep. Ha. I'm just kidding. I feel that I want to take on something more in my life. I haven't decided what yet... a hobby, a service project.  Starting a preschool is on the possibility list....
What dates from 2010 will stay etched in your memory and why? June 26th moved to Texas.

What was your biggest achievement of the year? Okay things that seem dumb... but I am doing mucho better at keeping a clean house. FAR from perfect, I know, but I am doing pretty dang good at sticking to my little mini cleaning schedule. Also... cooking from scratch... and just cooking better, healthier meals more often. I worked hard on a specific relationship in my life and it has improved a lot. I feel good about that.

What was your biggest failure?  Having too many excuses for NOT going to the temple after we moved to Texas.  Lately I've come to see a few things that I have inadvertantly taught my kids...   I need to work on "unteaching" a few things.

Did you suffer illness or injury? no.

What was the best thing you bought? I'd have to say our house. Atleast I'd better say our house since it is definitely the most expensive thing we've ever purchased.

Whose behavior merited celebration? My brother has gone through some really hard times this year. I admire his determination to keep going and turn to the right sources for help. My kids are awesome. I think they did a lot of things this year the merit celebration. But maybe I'll save all of that for another post.

Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? I don't think I want to list people, but generally speaking I am saddened to see the view of families in society continue to crumble until it means almost nothing.

Where did most of your money go? Mortgage. Mortgage. Mortgage.

What did you get really, really, really excited about? A camping trip, visitors, trips to the beach.

What song will always remind you of 2010? I feel like such a dorky mom... but the songs that come to mind are just ones that my kiddos liked this year.  Rubber Ducky, Picture a Christmas, Jingle Bells (batman smells robin layed an egg.)

Compared to this time last year are you richer or poorer? fatter or thinner? happier or sadder? Now that we really and truly own a home I feel like we no longer fall into the "poor student" category. We're really poorer though because we spent our money buying a home. My size has remained the same and my level of happiness is probably the same. The older I get the more hardship I see. I can't help sometimes but to wish to be young again where people didn't have problems and life was easy. At the same time.... I've found that as I see more and more of those hardships... I am more capable of truly appreciating those good, peaceful happy things that cross my path.

What do you wish you'd done more of? I kind of don't feel like this has been a great year for personal growth. With three young kids I kind of felt like surviving was enough from day to day. But I wish that I had demanded more of myself and tried to really learn and develop some new talents.

What do you wish you'd done less of? Been sarcastic.

What was your favorite TV program? He-man. Don't think I'm kidding. You can watch it on Hulu.

Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year? no

What was the best book you read? Family Feasts for $75 a week. I love this book. It is half-way a how-to book and half way a recipe book. I make so many things from scratch now and find it so much easier than I once thought it was. Saving some $$ as well is nice. , Bonds that Make us Free and I also read Shannon Hale's Goose Girl series again and count it among my favorites.

What was your greatest musical discovery? Mo-tab. I finally decided this year that they are awesome.

What did you want and get? A house.

What did you want and not get? Time to myself. That didn't happen.

What was your favorite film of the year? I really like "Letters from Juliet." I know it is kind of a cheesy romance, but I don't know... I just liked it. Oh yeah and "Avatar" was amazing. It came out in 2009 but I didn't see it until 2010 so I'm counting it. Also our whole family really liked "How to Train Your Dragon."

What did you do on your birthday and how old were you? I turned 31. I think it was really just a simple day, but I enjoyed it. Both Lizzy and Andrew wrote these cute birthday songs for me and a friend babysat while I went shopping. Then after Aaron came home we had a little party. It was sort of a nice quiet day.

What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? It's the same thing I say every year... but it would have to involve those in my family that I would like to see have those good things in their lives that they so much deserve.

What kept you sane? Aaron. Without family around as much, I rely on Aaron a lot more. He has to listen to be blab so much more and he has been a peach about it. Other sanity savers... naps, chocolate, phone calls with family and friends.

Life Today

2011-01-03T14:15:00.000-08:00

Andrew:

Favorite color: Blue

Favorite book: paper books (the kind of books with paper inside.)

What I like to do more than anything is: Draw

Game: Chinese checkers
Toy: He-man and a slide.
Movie: How to Train your Dragon.
Song: Rubber Ducky
Breakfast food: Cereal
Dinner: pizza
Other kids think that I am: alarious (he means hilarious.)
What do you like about your Mom? i like her so much. I love her. And I have a crush on you.
What do you like about your Dad? I love him. he is nice to me.

What do you like about Sam? I can play with him.
What do you like about Lizzy? I can play with her.
What do you like about yourself? I can play by myself.
When I grow up I want to: be a doctor.
I like learning about: school
I want to go to: the moon
If I had one wish it would be to: fly

Lizzy

Favorite color: Green, pink and purple but mostly green

Favorite Book: Princess books and Junie B.
Game: I play a puppy game at school at recess.
Toy: Princess Tiana set.

What I like to do more than anything is: Be with my family and read.
Movie: "Tangled" and "How to Train Your Dragon"
Song: Joy to the World
Breakfast food : cereal and eggs
Dinner : spaghetti
Other kids think that I am: nice
What do you like about your Mom? She is really nice and funny.
What do you like about your Dad? He's really nice and funny.
What do you like about Sam? He is cute and funny.
What do you like about Andrew? He's a maniac.

What do you like about yourself? That I can read so well.

When I grow up I want to: be a music teacher at Silverlake Elementary.
I like learning about: Princesses.

If I had one wish it would be: to go talk to Barbara Park and tell her that I like her books so much.
I want to go to: the library everyday.

Sam: as answered by Mom

Favorite color: I don't know.
Favorite book: Where is Baby's Bellybutton?
What I like to do more than anything is: Climb
Game: peek-a-boo
Toy: Zhu-zhu pet or a giant box
Movie: Baby Einstein
Song: Eensy Weensy Spider
Breakfast food: rice pudding, cereal, eggs
Dinner: nothing
Other kids think that I am: cute
What do you like about your Mom? she feeds me
What do you like about your Dad? Climbing on him.
What do you like about Andrew? He plays with me.
What do you like about Lizzy? Everything.
What do you like about yourself? I am all powerful at my home.
When I grow up I want to: stop wearing diapers.
I like learning about: what is outside.
I want to go: anywhere outside.
If I had one wish it would be to: eat all the sweets I want.

Vacation Time

2011-01-03T05:42:00.000-08:00

Amidst all of the celebrating and holly jolly joy and presents and Santa and Happy New Year there is one simple thing that makes it all so much better.

His name is Aaron.

Last year as an intern Aaron worked ALL THROUGH the holidays. I mean everyday. Christmas day, New Years Eve, everyday.

So this year... I am just glad to have him home with us.

We'll take every minute we can get.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-28T19:50:00.001-08:00

Christmas in Texas

2010-12-28T19:23:00.000-08:00

Christmas is all about tradition. It's that time when no matter how cold it gets, expensive it is or silly it seems... you have to do it because you did it last year and the year before and the year before that. So Christmas in Texas has thrown a wrench in our "traditions." No temple square, no Gardner Village, no extended family and no snow. But then again... it is a chance to start some brand new traditions.

Like attending the annual Christmas parade. In shorts and flip-flops....

playing outside during winter break,

barefoot....

And getting caught in a downpour while trying to be Santa's helper late on Christmas Eve.

We also had a blast Christmas caroling in our friends trailer then stopping at their home for hot chocolate and cookies and to toss around a frisbee.

But then some things are wonderfully the same.

Buying this year's ornaments and decorating the tree.

Making snowflakes, even though after living here for a few years, the kids may forget what snow really is.

Decorating the house.

Finding a few more candycanes disappear from the tree each day.

Snuggling up to watch Christmas movies.

And of course, being so excited that you can't sleep a wink. That doesn't change. The magic made it all the way to Texas. Thank goodness for that.

(The can't sleep thing was such a reality this year. At 3:30am I heard Lizzy get up and sneak into Andrew's room. She was fully dressed, bed made, teeth brushed and felt that she'd given sleeping a full effort for the night and was done. She was not happy when I told her that it was still the middle of the night and hours before we could go downstairs to see what Santa brought.)

Lately....

2010-12-21T07:37:00.000-08:00

Lizzy is jumping rope all day long....

Andrew has rediscovered tinkertoys and loves building carts for his stuffed animals....

And Sam empties out this garbage can atleast once a day so that he can wear it on his head.....

And that is today's exciting update on the Brown family going ons....

Thanksgiving Visitors

2010-12-21T05:45:00.000-08:00

This is definitely the warmest Thanksgiving I have ever experienced. We were so excited to have Grandma and Grandpa Brown come and stay for a while.

Yes. Really. This is the day before Thanksgiving.

I love every one of those little rolls.

Seeing the alligators at Brazos Bend was great. We will definitely be going back there.

Feast

2010-11-29T18:47:00.000-08:00

Both Lizzy and Andrew asked for a turkey leg. Since there was such a small group of us, it was easy to provide. It was fun to watch them gnawing away at it.

Happy Thanksgiving. We've had a great break. Aaron was able to have a full 5 days off in a row and it has been heavenly. Aaron's parents have been here with us and we have truly enjoyed having family with us this holiday season.

So this year was the first time that I actually planned and prepared a Thanksgiving feast and I had a blast. Must admit... that it is really a lot of work. I'm glad my MIL was here or I never could have pulled it off. But when all is said and done I was pretty proud of how it all turned out. Not because I expect anyone to care, but because someday I'd like to look back and remember our meal this year:
Turkey (of course)
Ham
Homemade stuffing (the only thing that I didn't love... maybe need a different recipe)
Potatoes and gravy
Homemade rolls with the BEST honeybutter
Jello salad
Yams
Vegetables in a Cloud
Veggie tray
Pumpkin Pie
Razelberry pie
Mini chocolate pie

Sam's favorite was... the pie.

Thanksgiving day ended with a re-showing of Lizzy's school Thanksgiving play.. costume and everything. With a little extra help. Simple. Wonderful day.

Happy Day

2010-11-14T13:09:00.000-08:00

My birthday was last week. I had to put this picture up to document how cute my kids were on my birthday. They went shopping with Dad the night before and in the morning actually REMEMBERED it was my b-day and ran downstairs yelling "Happy Birthday Mom" . They also spontaneously wrote these songs. I sure love these kiddos.

I love Oreo's. So this is what we enjoyed for dessert that night.

Thanks Aaron, Lizzy, Andrew and Sam for making my day special. And to many family and friends sending their happy wishes my way. I love you all.

I've been wanting to post a video of Sam walking around but since my video camera broke I didn't think I could. Recently I remembered that I can take video with our other camera. So here it is... many months late. :)

And Some Words Too...

2010-11-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

I don't want to forget...

**The awesome adult party that Aaron and I went to. Everyone was invited to dress as a "D list" celebrity. My favorites were the Octomom (and her fertility doctor), Hulk Hogan, Nacho Libre (and his Nun girlfriend), and Ken and Barbie. Aaron went as Jared the Subway guy. (Which by the way was the cheapest, easiest costume ever) and I was Wendy (the fast food icon). We played all sorts of crazy games and the grand finale was the winner of all of the games (or should I say loser) finished off her drink of blended worms and clam juice. Really we watched him blend 6 worms in the blender and she drank it. Ughhh.

** Our neighborhood did a little party on Saturday night. I was so much fun. We honestly have the best neighbors. I love them all. We played games and ate food and then watched movies that were projected up onto someone's garage. Good times. I wish Aaron hadn't been in San Diego for the whole thing... but that's how it worked out this year. :(

** Aaron said I was more into Halloween this year than I ever have been before. I guess I was. Decorations, fun treats and costumes. I've decided that anticipating holidays is really more fun than the events themselves. But still... at about 9:00 last night after the kids were tucked in... I had a real itching to take down the Halloween decorations. I waited until this morning, but it is done now. Time to start planning Thanksgiving.

Halloween in Pictures

2010-11-01T08:25:00.000-07:00

A Few Happenings...

2010-11-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

My camera isn't working so well. Outdoor pictures just don't work anymore and indoor pictures often have these funny lines through them. Anyone know why that is happening? Also... my cell phone had a cup of water spilled on it and I can no long view anything on the screen. Oh and our video camera... well it got broken last week too. So I've been having a tough week with our technological devices. I haven't posted because the pictures are just no good, but we've been having some fun and I just needed to do a post anyway. I'm trying to pick photos without the line problem, but they still aren't very good. Sorry.

See this is how all outdoor pictures look, or just plain white. But I wanted to write about how we went camping on the beach a few weeks ago and had a great time. Galveston doesn't have the most amazing beaches, but there was some pretty amazing wildlife. We found crabs, big and small, saw lots of cool birds, fish, and best of all we saw sharks. Or maybe they were dolphins. We don't know but a school swam by very close to the beach. Like close enough that we could have swam out to touch them. Aaron started to do so, which made me a little nervous because other families on the beach were getting their kids out of the water while yelling about sharks. Either way it was amazing. We then saw the same thing again the next day. So awesome.

I love sneaking in to see how Sam looks at night. Sleeping kids are so awesome.

These two entertained themselves one afternoon by dressing up in each others clothing. They had a blast.

I've been trying to find ways to use apples since they are so cheap right now. I made this yummy apple pie, but the kids weren't into it and Aaron wasn't around much that week. So... I ate the whole thing myself. Every bite. Couldn't let it go to waste. Loved every bite.

This is Sam's favorite place to be while I'm cooking. After I remove the sharp knives, he is free to sort through my utensil drawer and it often occupies him for a long time while I'm getting dinner on the table.

Also check out his diaper. Isn't it cute? That's right... I've gone green with cloth diapers. Ha. Actually I'm kind of doing a half n' half thing, using disposable diapers as well. It's not as bad as I thought and I do expect it to save a lot of $$$ in the long run.

Lizzy is now missing her two front teeth. She is thrilled about it and I must say I think she's pretty cute.

Well that's all the excitement from my end...

coming soon....

halloween. :)

Have you Ever??

2010-10-21T15:25:00.000-07:00

.....picked up some food that your kid dropped on the floor and decided to pop it into your mouth because it was easier than taking it to the garbage can?

....looked forward to going to the bathroom just so that you can be alone for a minute?

.... taped your child to his chair at dinnertime?

.... Absolutely insisted that your child go watch cartoons for awhile instead of "helping" fix dinner.

Oh .... yeah... totally... me neither. Just wonderin'....

Happinesses for Today

2010-10-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

1. I walked outside this morning and it was amazingly, beautifully splendidly... COOL. If that isn't thrilling to you then you probably don't live in Houston, TX. But I do and 78 degrees almost made me cry.

2. Lizzy left these cute notes on everyone's pillows.

Can you tell that we have already received a Christmas card catalog in the mail?

3. I found out that my in-laws are coming to visit over Thanksgiving. Yippee. We love visitors.

4. At dinner tonight Lizzy sat down and said... "So Mom... did you hear about the big game last night? You didn't? The Cowboys won."

5. I pretty much, totally like my kids. At least most of the time. Doesn't Sam look big?

Recipes that have come in handy lately

2010-10-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yogurt pops. Are you ready for a great recipe that your kids will love? And they'll think they're getting a dessert when it's really just yogurt and even your baby loves them, who happens to be teething and so this cold stuff helps soothe the pain? Are you ready? Are you?

1. Buy some yogurt.
2. Dump it into ice molds.
3. Put in a stick of some sort.
4. Freeze.

Wallaa. Good stuff.

Okay and my next big reveal is called Easy Pizza Rolls. Here we go.

1 loaf frozen bread dough (or just make your own dough)
4 oz cream cheese
one 6 ounce can tomato paste
2 t. dried oregano
1 t. garlic powder
1 t. onion powder
1 1/2 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
1 c. chopped pepperoni

1. Preheat oven to 375degrees. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Roll out dough into a rectangle and make it as thin as you can. Spread with cream cheese and them tomato paste over the cream cheese. Sprinkle evenly with spices. Top with cheese and pepperoni.
3. Roll up jelly-roll style, starting at the long end. Cut log into 1 inch think rounds just like making cinnamon rolls. Place on pan and bake for about 20 minutes.

We ate a few for dinner one night and I froze the rest. I have two bags of these in my freezer right now. These are great to grab when you are in a hurry. Lizzy also likes them in her school lunches, just cold.

Enjoy.

Missing the Mountains

2010-09-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

I'm missing the mountains today. And also remembering how awesome this hike through Bryce Canyon was. I can't tell you how many people looked at us like we were crazy when they saw us trudging up the steep inclines with 4 babies, a toddler and 4 kids. Hard work, but so worth it.

Treasures

2010-09-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

Please tell me that I am not the only one who has to sneak around at night, finding my kids "treasures" and tossing them out while they sleep. I feel kind of guilty writing that, but really there has to be a line somewhere. We have found however, that taking a picture makes it easier for the kids to be able to let go. So here are a few of our most treasured possessions from the last week.

A very old and nasty toothbrush.

A napkin scrap with a small note. Since I write a napkin note almost everday, I did determine that she could not keep them ALL.

A cockroach that we trapped in a mason jar. Honestly Andrew cried and cried when I tried to flush it down the toilet. I don't know how one can possibly get attached to a cockroach, but I guess it is possible.

And now for a picture of my real treasures. I'm posting this for my Mom who wanted to know what I put on the wall in my kitchen/dining area.

Mom, since I did this for you, it does necessitate that you leave me a comment. :) ha ha.

Wordsearch

2010-09-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

Andrew asked me to make him a wordsearch yesterday and so I made the one on top. He made the adorable one underneath. I think he did a pretty good job.

Parenting Expectations

2010-09-09T07:03:00.000-07:00

Sometimes parenting carries with it some pretty unreasonable expectations. I don't know when it first happened, but I imagine it was pretty liberating the first time I read an article in Parents magazine and didn't feel compelled to follow it so that I could be a "good mom". Now that I have a few kids and a little more confidence I can laugh. Like when I laughed at this:

This article includes 11 super-healthy lunch-box recipes. Make sure that your child is getting not only a tasty treat but something to keep her going all day long.

We've got: Whole-Grain Hummus Sandwich with Vegetables, Tropical Turkey Spring Rolls and Aloha Chicken with Pineapple Dip.

So... in case you didn't get the memo... PB&J - OUT. Carrot sticks - OUT. Apple slices - BORING.
Pomegranate juice reduced in a sauce pan until syrupy, mixed with mango, cilantro and sprouts and wrapped in blanched cabbage - IN.

Better get to work.

Watch Me Grow

2010-09-07T13:59:00.000-07:00

One Year Ago

2010-09-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

One year ago.... this adorable baby swept into my heart and took possession of it.

And now, a year later, he has still not given it back. Not even a teensy weensy tiny little piece of it.

Isn't that a rotten thing to do to a mother?

Happy Birthday Sam. I love you more than you can possibly know.

Simplicity

2010-09-05T13:12:00.000-07:00

Life feels slower now.

I don't know if it is Texas, the heat or just that we have fewer family and friends around to keep us busy now, but life feels slower. I'm rarely in a hurry. If Andrew wants to take 20 minutes to put his pants on... that is usually okay. We stroll to the bus stop each morning to drop Lizzy off and then stroll back again in the afternoon. We've been reading lots of stories and making lots of cookies. (Probably too many). We also spend more time doing things like mopping floors, baking bread and planning our garden.

One part of me tells me that I need to fill this time up. I somehow think that if I'm not running about all day, I wasn't productive or that it just wasn't, somehow, enough. As I was thinking about this... a quote came to mind:

"Sometimes we feel that the busier we are, the more important we are—as though our busyness defines our worth. Brothers and sisters, we can spend a lifetime whirling about at a feverish pace, checking off list after list of things that in the end really don’t matter. That we do a lot may not be so important. That we focus the energy of our minds, our hearts, and our souls on those things of eternal significance—that is essential." Joseph B. Wirthlin

And so... I am on a quest to determine what is most worthwhile. What really does matter. What is essential. Eventually piano lessons, PTA, and playdates will squeeze into our lives and those are good things. But... I won't be rushed. And maybe I will simply enjoy, for awhile, this quiet, SLOW time with my boys.

Back to School Checklist

2010-09-04T20:11:00.000-07:00

This post was meant to be published 2 weeks ago when school started but then our computer crashed. Here it is 2 weeks late.

Try to buy school supplies. Check

Realize that you can't by all the school supplies because they have such wierd specific requirements here in Texas that it is impossible to find what they want. Check.

Return the ones you bought and by a pre-packaged kit for twice as much. Check.

Buy back to school clothes. Check.

Find out that the school district has a dress code and nothing you bought can actually be worn to school. Check.

Return everything you bought and buy cacky, blue and black clothes for a lot less $$. Yeah. Check.

Take first day of school picture. Check.

Make a giant 1st day of school cookie just for fun. Check.

And... I think we're good to go.

Motherhood

2010-08-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

This was recommended by my SIL Megan. I love it because it isn't just full of perfect families. The images are real life... with a mom fetching her kid out of the toilet and dealing with whiney kids. Every so often I need to be refocused and reminded about what matters. This did the trick.

Home... Safe

2010-08-18T20:20:00.000-07:00

It's kind of cool how the home plate is called home plate. After running the bases and avoiding the other team, if you can just make it home... you are safe. Safe at home.

Today was a heart-wrenching day for me in which I realized that I cannot control every influence that enters into my children's lives. At some point they have to face the big bad scary world. And sometimes the bigness and badness of it seems oh so overwhelming. And the real killer is that I can't stop it. I so desperately want to follow my kids to school and stand nearby to make sure that no one hurts my child... no one tells them they aren't good enough, no lies or evil influences get close to their innocent hearts. But I can't.

What I can do is make my home safe. No matter what they face out there in the world... home must be a place where they can walk in the door and leave it behind because here... they are safe. Loved. Cherished. Valued. Home is where truth can be sorted from lies and one can be refreshed and rejuvenated to face the world again.

"The most important work you and I will ever do will be within the walls of our own homes." Harold B. Lee

Home sweet home.

Ready to Explore the World

2010-08-06T09:18:00.000-07:00

Inside

2010-08-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

We've quickly learned that there is only one thing to do outside in southern Texas this time of year. It looks like this:

And the rest of the time... we've found a few things to do indoors as well.

Shadow dancing.

Our mini musician.

Tea parties.

A fort/hut/hide-out etc..

The penny in the flour game.

Sam's favorite game.... hit the ball.

The flour game.

The Unexpected

2010-07-28T07:48:00.000-07:00

Before moving to Texas, we got a lot of friendly advice and information about our new state. We were prepared for the extreme heat and humidity. (I've almost stopped showering altogether because really... what's the point?) We heard that there was great food to eat (anyone want some barbeque) and many people talked of the wonderful southern hospitality. I love that part. People are so friendly here.

But here are a few things that were not expected:

#1Bugs. We opened our blinds one morning to find this little guy popping in to say hello. He's not the first of this we've seen, but don't worry... totally harmless. (P.S. this was one night of work on the part of our spider friend. We'd used that door many times that evening before and it was clear from spider webs.

I will spare you picture of the cockroaches in our shed, mostly because I have never ventured out to see

them and don't have any plans to. We try not to talk about it much since Lizzy now freaks out whenever she sees a spider.

#2 Rain. Our street flooded the 2nd week that we were here. Besides that I freaked out and called to buy flood insurance on the spot... we actually have enjoyed the rain. The kids love playing in it... it cools things down and I haven't watered the lawn once since we moved. Andrew actually cried a few days later when it rained hard, but our street didn't flood. Oh... how he wants another flood.

#3 Wildlife. Considering the very small amount of time we have spent at parks, we have already seen snakes, rabbits, squirrels and we even had a pet turtle for a few days that we rescued from a busy street. We named him Crush.

Things to Miss and Things to Love

2010-07-20T09:14:00.000-07:00

I have been putting off this post because I've been avoiding the whole sadness thing that goes along with it. I don't like to be weepy and to wallow in self-pity, but I think it may do me some good to at last admit that I am really sad about our move this time. Our previous out of state move was nothing but an adventure. A year was so short and fun, but this feels so much more permanent... and long... and lonely.

But here's the thing. As I was saying goodbye to people that I love, I decided that it was a very good thing to be sad. Imagine if we'd lived in Utah for all those years and not been sad to leave it behind. Now that would really be sad. So instead of listing everything I miss... I'm going to list a bunch of things that I love and am so grateful to have been able to love. Because to love.. and to be loved.... is really, in the end... all that matters.

I love that my kids have been able to have relationships with their wonderful cousins and hope that they will stay close to them even across the country.

I love our good friends and neighbors (and kick myself for not taking more pictures of my girlfriends that I love so much.)

I love my family and Aaron's family. So so much. I love family vacations. I love laughing together and going on trips together. And talking and joking and playing and celebrating holidays. I love camping, slip n' slidin' and Grandma's to cuddle my babies. I love backyard BBQ's, watching each others kids, sitting around a campfire or standing around the kitchen table. I love that there is so much to love.

I love our old church building and the good friends we made there.

And last, but not least, I love the mountains, the canyons, the beautiful sights that are really unique to Utah. Isn't it so awesome to have such great recreation only minutes away in Utah? Dinner and movie can be relaxing as well, but I have learned that it does not rejuvenate and refresh the same way that nature can. I love love love nature.

And I love the new opportunity that we have to find new things to love here in our Texas.

Lots of love,

Rachelle

2010-07-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

Just dropping in to say hello.

HELLO!!!!

The End (of 1 year)

2010-07-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

I do realize that this stuff happened months ago, but that is no reason to neglect them altogether.

Andrew's preschool graduation. It was so adorable.

Lizzy's last day of school. In her school play costume and here with her teacher, Mrs. McDonald.

Dang

2010-06-09T09:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Lizzy's last day of school. I jokingly said to her at dinner that since she didn't have school the next day she could sleep in as late as she wanted. She told me that she was going to sleep in until 10:00. Lizzy could never sleep in until 10:00 and so I rolled my eyes and replied.."Lizzy if you sleep in until 10:00 I will pay you five bucks." It is now 10:20 and I am out five bucks. Dang.

Odds and Ends

2010-05-28T10:23:00.000-07:00

1. Muffin tin lunches. I am sharing this because it is the secret to being a cool mom. I'm serious... set this out for lunch and your kids will think you are the coolest mom... (effect may last up to 5 minutes.) It has received rave reviews from my kids and their friends. An odd assortment of whatever you happen to have on hand. And they eat almost everything almost every time.

2. An amusing mix between Lizzy style play and Andrew style play. Each princess got a protector to accompany her to the ball. I had to take a picture.

3. I'm loving how my happy childhood memories return as I have different experiences with my own children. It was so fun reading this book with my kids.

4. Watching my kids sit outside on a cool evening and eat a popsicle was like a flashback to my first tastes of summer when I was a kid. I remembered eating Otter Pops on our trampoline. I remember being allowed to stay up later and play night games. I remembered bringing home my tote tray at the end of the school year to clean it out. (Do any schools still have tote trays?) I remember how those last few days of school hardly even seemed like school because everyone was kind of bubbling over with end of the year excitement... even the teachers. I love that I get to experience all of that stuff again through my kids.

Here's looking forward to a fantastic summer.

When You Wish Upon a Star......

2010-05-18T13:28:00.000-07:00

You were all so right. It was Disneyland. Lizzy's picture must have given it away. That was clearly Sam and I on a rollercoaster, Lizzy on the Dumbo ride, Dad on the tea cups, and Andrew at the Finding Nemo submarine ride.

This moment was Lizzy's dream come true. She got to play in Princess Tiana's band. Oh I wish we'd gotten a better picture because she was seriously glowing.

Andrew's favorite place was probably these water fountains in the Bugs Life area. They were fun but I really don't want them to be his favorite since we could have had that experience at Gateway Mall. Oh well. :) Actually.. I think he may have had another favorite. I didn't get a picture, but it was so awesome I just have to write about it so that I can remember. There was an experience called "Turtle Talk" that we just loved. It was Crush, the turtle on Finding Nemo. It was a large screen and Crush was on the screen, but he was controlled by an actor who actually made him move and talk like he was interacting with the kids. The second time we did it, Andrew was chosen from the audience to talk to Crush.

Crush: Hey little dude. So what's your name.
Andrew: Andrew (giggle)
Crush: Totally Awesome Andrew. So Andrew who brought you here?
Andrew: My Heavenly Father
Crush: What? Your Heavenly Father. Dude. That's awesome. I mean who's that sitting next to you?

The conversation went on for much longer, but that was my favorite part. Slightly embarassing, but I was smiley proud too.

Pirates.

The kids with Uncle Russ. He lives nearby Disneyland and we were able to meet up for dinner. Lots o' fun.

The kids with Aaron's cousin, Rochelle, who was the reason the trip actually happened. Her husband works for Pixar and they got us in for free. Yippee. Seriously I love these guys and we had so much fun together. Rogan's head also turned out to be a great place for Andrew to sleep after a long day. Thanks again.

This is the Tower of Terror ride. The kids didn't ride it of course, but the name instills terror in the kids now and we use it to threaten if necessary. (i.e. You two stop fighting or you'll have to go ride the Tower of Terror) It was Aaron's favorite ride. I'm glad I did it, but as you can see in the picture... it scared the heck out of me.

And that's the end. We had a great time. Now I just need a post-vacation vacation, because I'm exhausted.

Guessing Game

2010-05-15T21:24:00.000-07:00

This last week we went on a vacation. I will give you three clues about where we went.

Clue #1 Picture by Lizzy

Clue #2 A Map

Clue #3
Andrew was so excited/overhwhelmed/dismayed over the news that he cried when we told him and then ran upstairs and proceeded to pee into the garbage can rather than the toilet.

Can you guess where we went?

Answers From Sam

2010-04-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

Yes. I am cute. Yes. I did just learn to sit up. Yes. I do have very chubby cheeks. Yes. I do love these photo sessions. Yes. I love to be naked. Yes. I would eat the camera if I could only reach it. I'm sorry... that's all for today. Thank you.

Meet Missy

2010-04-03T19:31:00.000-07:00

This is Missy. She's been with us for a few months now. We love Missy.

But I'm afraid that she doesn't love us. Well... atleast not as much as she loves Brett. This is what she does when she is forced to go outside and play with the kids. Brett is inside. Torturing her. Tossing her out to be tormented by the Browns.

"Brett, why are you doing this to me? Please. Let me in. And then tell your sister to clean her windows. They are really disgusting."

a few scraps...

2010-04-03T19:18:00.000-07:00

These are just a few things that have been laying around the house lately. This is from Andrew's Sunbeam class and I just really love it. He is thankful for tigers and meatballs. How awesome is that?

And then this poem written by Lizzy. It's something I'd like to remember as well. I mean where did a 6 year old learn to say "to and fro"? Priceless.

Apil Fools Day From Mother Nature

2010-04-01T06:49:00.000-07:00

Seriously folks.... It's April!

Our Future Home

2010-03-31T10:47:00.000-07:00

4 days in Texas
17 homes that we looked at
1 baby to tow around
4 spreadsheets (that's how Aaron likes to make big decisions)
many prayers

and it looks like.....

We have a winner.

A Conversation at Lunch

2010-03-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

This is what I overheard from the other room during lunch today.

Lizzy: What if there was a birthday party at school and everyone got invited, but I didn't. How would that make you feel? Would you like that?

Andrew: No. I'd be mad for you.

Lizzy: Andrew, you are so independent.

Andrew: What's independent?

Lizzy: It's when you feel things that other people feel.

Andrew: Yeah, I'm independent and so are you Lizzy.

Lizzy: Thanks.

Boys!!

2010-03-11T19:46:00.000-08:00

Andrew's favorite dinosaur is Ankylosaurus. Ankylosaurus's move around on all fours. Which explains this little problem Andrew has with all of his jeans. If I could find some way to get Andrew interested in the dinosaurs that walk upright... I could probably save our family a lot of money.

Chubby Cheeks

2010-03-11T19:23:00.000-08:00

Does this not look like someone who just seriously overate at Thanksgiving?

Despite those chubby cheeks, I promise that Sam does more than just eat. See here....

My New Favorites

2010-03-07T19:42:00.000-08:00

Favorite quote:

"If you are helpless, He is not. If you are lost, He is not. If you don't know what to do next, He knows. It would take a miracle, you say? Well, if it takes a miracle, why not?"

Boyd K. Packer

Favorite Picture:

Favorite new blog:

http://www.thyhandhathprovided.blogspot.com/

Favorite thing to cook:

(Really breads of all sorts... and whole wheat especially. And yes... these are whole wheat cinnamon rolls and yes... I felt good serving them to my family.)

2 favorite way to spend my free time:

http://www.har.com/ (we are leaving in 2 weeks to go house hunting - and hopefully buying) :)

And I have becoming mildly obsessed with organizing lately and getting rid of STUFF. I have taken 5 trips to D.I. and thrown out about 5 garbage bags worth of stuff so far.

So what are your favorites today?

Tooth Fairy

2010-03-07T19:40:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you about the tooth fairy. I was certain that she only collected teeth. But now... it seems that she will take a very nice note as well. When Lizzy misplaced the tooth that she was saving to put under her pillow... she was heartbroken. She wrote a note explaining her problem. She also decided that a small gift was in order. She thought that maybe the tooth fairy could use something small to grab the teeth out from under the pillow. That is why I no longer have my tweezers. But it was all for a good cause because Lizzy did indeed get a visit from the tooth fairy. And that's what matters most...

4 year old

2010-03-07T19:28:00.000-08:00

I love this my boy so so much.

Today he came into the kitchen crying. When I asked him why... he said that he was sad because he thought he heard me crying. I hadn't been crying and I tried to reassure him, but he continued to cry... telling me that it makes him so sad to hear me cry.

It is little moments like this that just make me want to wrap him up and hold him so tight.... and not let him grow up.

But then...

The growing up part is fun too. I was thinking of a few things that Andrew has experienced this past year.

* Andrew has discovered a passion for dinosaurs and has an incredible memory. He remembers the name for some prehistoric frog that I still can't even say.

* Andrew started preschool this year. He knows his alphabet and is just starting to sound out simple words.

* Andrew started "big kid" primary this year and loves to say the prayers and give talks.

* Andrew has decided that he loves *ALL* sports.

* Andrew wants to be a Dad when he grows up. I think that is awesome. He also wants to be a doctor. This is the part that cracks me up. When I asked him why he wants to be a doctor he said, "Because I like to rest a lot". Aaron has been working a lot of night shifts lately... and then he comes home and sleeps all day. I guess all that Andrew sees is a Dad that just gets to rest a lot.

* Andrew has learned the joy of a good joke. Once he finds one that he likes... he'll tell it over and over and over and over...... and over.

Enough of this... I just love my boy.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANDREW!!

p.s. I made Andrew's birthday cake myself and was pretty happy with it. Especially since cake decorating has not proved to be a talent of mine in the past.

Prayer

2010-02-19T19:52:00.000-08:00

It started with the earthquake in Haiti. The kids saw images on the news that troubled them. Not knowing how else to address such a deep concern, we simply began praying more fervently. It caught on.

Lately my kiddos pray about everything. While I was trying to get Lizzy to taste something new, she quickly mumbled first, "Heavenly Father please help me be able to eat this." I happened to pass by while Andrew was in the bathroom and heard him say, "Heavenly Father.... Thank you there's no spiders in here."

My first instinct was to tell the kids not to be silly.... that they simply don't need to pray over EVERYTHING. And then I realized that I was being dumb and they really had it right.

"Cry unto him when ye are in your fields, yea, over all your flocks. Cry unto him in your houses, yea, over all your household, both morning, mid-day, and evening. Yea, cry unto him against the power of your enemies. Yea, cry unto him against the devil, who is an enemy to all righteousness. Cry unto him over the crops of your fields, that ye may prosper in them. Cry over the flocks of your fields, that they may increase. But this is not all; ye must pour out your souls in your closets, and your secret places, and in your wilderness. Yea, and when you do not cry unto the Lord, let your hearts be full, drawn out in prayer unto him continually for your welfare, and also for the welfare of those who are around you. " Alma 34:20-27

Praying is certainly a learned thing. Practice does improve one's prayers and I hope that I've learned a few things about how to pray in my life. And yet... there is also something so natural and instinctive about it as well. It is that instinct to pray.... to communicate with Our Creator... that I want to encourage in my children... or maybe what they are encouraging in me.

Kid at Heart

2010-02-17T21:36:00.000-08:00

Aaron is a super grown-up, very mature husband, father and doctor. That is... until we brought home these boxes of Aaron's stuff that Aaron's parents have stored for 20+ years. He-Man stuff, Lego's, even a very old Nintendo. (Which we're hoping to sell on Ebay for $13,000 like one did last week.) And I am reminded that every man is really just a kid in a bigger body.

Perspective

2010-02-17T20:38:00.000-08:00

"How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives." -- Annie Dillard

I love this quote. Although I will admit that my first thought was "Great... my life is cleaning toilets." Because sometimes I feel like that is how I spend my days. That got me thinking about what it is that I really DO.

I cook, I clean, I take kids places and then I pick them up. I talk on the phone, change a diaper and break up an argument. I make a snack, clean up a spill, pay the bills and play with my kids. I make a shopping list, bake some bread, read some stories, help with homework and tuck into bed. That's not too bad. But it's not how I want to spend my life.

Instead I want to:

Create a home that is full of love. Help the little ones in my life to feel special, peaceful and safe. Create beautiful memories. Help my kids to become the wonderful people that God intends them to become. Create an environment where beauty is enjoyed and laughter is plentiful. Make someone happy.

Perspective is everything. I'm thinking if my days are really spent doing the things in that second list... then in the end I'll be pretty happy with how I spent my life. And I guess if that means I have to clean a few toilets along the way..... so be it.

I've Been Told

2010-02-10T20:24:00.000-08:00

I've been told that it goes fast. I've been told that I need to soak up everyday I have with my little ones because before I know it.... they'll be all grown up. Here's to doing a little more soaking "it" up - because somehow he already snuck in 4 whole years. Happy Birthday Andrew.