Christmas Season

We've had a chance to celebrate the season several ways this year. Our hearts always go back to the true meaning of Christmas and why we're grateful Christ was born so many years ago. We are grateful for His life, teachings, example and sacrifice.

We're grateful the gospel is on earth today and that we have a chance to make covenants in Holy Places.

We are grateful for Joseph and Mary - for their service to Jesus during His earthly sojourn. We are grateful for all those who serve us.

We are thankful for family and that Christ lets us continue to be together.

Merry Christmas to all...and to all a good night.

Rachel's True Age

Rachel - in all of her 3 year old glory just started doing Wii Fit. Jonny got her set up with a Mii and went through some of the initial information - like the fact that she is just barely above the 'underweight' line for her weight. The thing that cracked us up was the result of Rachel's Wii Fit age. Drumroll...she's 28. Talk about growing up too fast. She actually is - but, lucky it's not quite that quickly. We sure love her. It's just another of example of - don't always believe what you read.

"Baby James"

This is cousin James that all of my children adore (along with his older brothers). Jacob was doing something to get him to laugh. We got to hang out with them last week for his older brothers Bday. So fun! The girls have had a 'baby james' character daily in their pretend play everyday since. We love cousins.

So The Good News Is...

...my parents are back in the states. We got to pick them up from the airport Saturday. The kids trick or treated for about an hour and then we headed out. It was great to have them here. Then next day, they came to church with us and Dad shared his testimony. He did a great job. He talked about the Savior, the temple and its blessings - and getting to know the grandchildren again was a priority. We're excited to see more of them.

Here's the Update

I went to pick Jonny up from his class and he told me that those who were new this week were just there for a few minutes before the guy excused them and said he was going to work with some of the returning students. Again...what?!?!? It seems that if you're being paid to teach a class - you teach all the students. It just didn't seem fair. So far - not real impressed. The outfits/belts you can buy are $50. It'll be awhile before that investment's made. It still bugs me. Jonny said he was one of 4 students that didn't get to stay very long. They were shown a couple of things - but, it still seems like the teacher should have planned for new students to be there...the whole time. I'm not going to lose sleep over it - but, I will be talking with him. So not professional!

Tae Kwon Do

I just dropped Jonny off at Tae Kwon Do. The teacher was 10 minutes late. What? There are 8 sessions. If he's 10 minutes late for each one...hmm...that would be 80 minutes we're paying for that Jonny doesn't get the instruction. I hope he's on time next time - don't really feel like paying for 1.5 hours of instruction that we're not getting. I know - call me frugal or a scrooge...but, it's true.

No Pictures

Two boys - both in light brown pants and a light brown top with a brown belt and boots. The rest of their outfit/'accessories' make it obvious one is Luke Skywalker and the other is Indiana Jones. I didn't get a picture as they were out the door. (Layne took them to school.) I usually like to go to the school to see the parade and join in the brunch with the other families. I was going to have the girls join in too. This is the first year I haven't gone. Sad. Megan has worn her lion costume around the house for most of the day. Layne took the girls to pick up the boys from school, get Jacob's staples out of his head, get the kids flu shots (they were out when we tried earlier), and take the kids to a couple of community Halloween events. I'm completely missing out! We will have no pictures of any of the Halloween stuff today. Darn sore throat!!

A Lesson For The Day

Rachel left the dinner table complaining of a tummy ache. She went to lay down. Later, I noticed her on the couch. I had thought she had headed for bed - not so. She hadn't made it that far. It was tough getting her into bed. There was crying and complaining from a seemingly exhausted girl. We finally got her in her cozy bed. I headed downstairs to get her 'ruffy' (stuffed animal she wanted for the night) and to do a couple of other things on the way. I was a little baffled when I saw her out of bed a few minutes later. I asked her what was going on and she told me that we needed to do the 'family stuff'. I gave her a puzzled look and then quickly realized she knew we hadn't done our scripture and prayer together as a family. We got things together and quickly finished getting the other kids ready for bed. We did our scripture and prayer. It was chaotic after that because by then she had her 'second wind'. It was bed time a bit later than originally planned - but, I was glad she reminded us to take that time together as a family.

I especially appreciated the timing because I was feeling a little picked on tonight. I haven't felt real great - I brought the kids home from school and took a 2 hour nap. That's not the best of ideas in the first place. Let's just say the boys didn't get their learning time done and spent extra time with technology. The girls found the M&Ms - no place is sacred in this house. They had also made a general mess in several spots and had pieces of bread strung around the house.

So...I wasn't feeling well, the house was even more of a disaster than it was before, there were piles of laundry to be done, the garbages/recycling needed to go out for 'garbage day' tomorrow, my throat hurt so I didn't even have it in me to 'yell' at the kids, Layne had called and said he was going to be late (which could mean anytime between now and midnight - usually a later version...so don't plan on him), dinner needed to be fixed/eaten/cleaned up - with dishes already in the sink, it was bath night, costumes for the boys were pretty much non-existent and needed to be completed by tomorrow, I was also concerned about some items that the kids need and I'm not sure how to help them, I kept hoping for some sort of 'second wind', I was also worried about all of the things (besides what's been listed) that needed to be worked into the schedule - some of which should have already been done and some that needs a system in place to get done. In other words - I wasn't well - I just wanted to go back to bed, I have lost my rhythm of getting things done and the cycle keeps getting worse. I was feeling a bit like a whiner - I was even more grouchy than usual with the kids today.

Rachel reminded us - particularly me that there are priorities and things we should be focusing on - they are eternal in nature. The other things will fall into place as we focus on what's truly important. Since then - the boys helped with the garbages and laundry, I've done more laundry since they've gone to bed, the kitchen and front room are at least somewhat bearable (with much more work needed) and I feel like life is at least going to be alright. I still don't feel so great and there's still lots to do - but, at least it's more in perspective now.

Things I Still Need To Write About

The first day of school (now that we're a month into it)

My cool husband that had a birthday this past week

What we did this summer

Our trip the CA

Update on the boys scouting achievements

Rachel starting preschool

Megan starting Kindergarten

Getting rid of 'the little potty' and changing mat

All the books I've been reading

Going to the State Fair

The Young Women I get to work with

Update on the house

Our garden and what's being harvested

Family Outings

Wish I Could Have Taken A Picture

Megan was assigned to share a scripture in Primary yesterday (Opening Exercises). They have the kids sit up front. She sat so still and seemed so grown up. She had worn her 'blue flower dress' (it's a favorite - worn every time it's clean) and had ever so daintily let it drape over her crossed legs until it was 'just right'. She seemed to know what she was doing. It was a great parent moment. (I was especially pleased considering she's usually not one to sit still for very long.)

Everyone Was There!

We recently spent a week in California with Layne's family. We actually got to see everyone! Very exciting!

Who Could Be Happier...

than a kid in a candy store?

We went to the Jelly Belly Factory while we were in CA. The kids seemed to enjoy it.

Free Samples! Who doesn't love that - no matter what your age?

Love this! Candy in her hand, candy in her mouth and apparently candy in her tummy. What 5 year old wouldn't be smiling? (Well, as much of a smile as she can muster with a mouth full of candy.)

Eating candy from the sample bag - while trying to get candy from the machine. Sounds like too much of a good thing.

Ahh...the wonder!

Presidency Meeting

Have you ever tried to have a Beehive (12-13 year olds) Presidency Meeting a few days after they've spent a week at Brighton Camp (girls' camp for their age group)?!?!

They'll be playing the 'laughing game' (Ha- HaHa-HaHaHa)...AND

Making 'stars'...All while singing multiple rounds of 'Black Socks'.

Love My Girls!!

(It was actually more successful than you might think - although, I still get the song stuck in my head now and then. Thanks a lot!)

Little Fingers

Our youngest can do so many things these days! (Including using 'the potty' - although, I don't count them 'potty trained' until they can do the whole thing by themselves.) There are times I wish she would stay little for a bit longer. She's doing a pretty good job - considering she's small for her age. But, her development seems to be right on target. (She might even learn to read 'early' - not child genius - just earlier than the rest of our kids. She already knows the sounds of many letters.) Anyway...something I love about her is how she holds my hand. It reminds me of infants and how they take all of their tiny fingers and hold on tight to one finger of the bigger person. Rachel does the same. When she grabs my hand - she'll take all of her little fingers and wrap them around my pinky. It's often a reminder to me that she's still my baby.

My Mom Rocks!

Just in case anyone was wondering - this is what my children think of me.:} Really...they tell me so everyday. (Alright, so maybe not every day.)

Another List

I've mentioned some things we've been working on - here's a list of what we like about living here.

Tree Lined Streets

Our Ward

Walking Distance - Library, Parks, Duck Pond, Chapel, Grocery Store

Central Air

Automatic Sprinklers

Garden Out Back

New Places To Go/Things To Do/People To See

Windows in Every Space Possible

Storage

Parking: don't have to pay/visitors don't need a permit/kids are safer when we head to the van

Two Car Garage

Big Window in Front Room

Multi-Cultural Center

Trails

Freeway Access

Airport Close

Temples

Sprinkler System: Check

We did get the sprinkler fixed. Layne set up the timer and we now don't need to go out and switch the above ground sprinkler head/hose every few minutes just to water the lawn. It's a beautiful thing! (OK - so, the lawn isn't exactly beautiful right now. We're still doing our best to just keep it alive. Truthfully, I'd rather just take the front lawn out.)

It Runs in the Family

This morning Rachel did something cute and I told her she was, 'so funny'.

Jonny then came up with - "It runs through the family.".

He's got a great sense of humor and makes me laugh. I didn't realize all of us were funny.:} I guess it's good he thinks we actually laugh around here.

New Window!!

Now all our neighbors have to look at is this (minus the dutiful child standing in the picture). Because...

we finally have a NEW window!!!

We Have a Garden...

...A Lovely Garden...

I don't think I've ever mentioned anything about our garden. As you can see - the pumpkins are taking over and the corn is not tall enough to be growing tassels yet. We'll know more of what we're doing next time around.

One Step At A Time

We're trying to get things done around the house/yard. It's a 'one step at a time' process around here.

Layne dug a hole...a BIG hole. The sprinkler is broken in the front yard. We decided we were cheap and didn't want to pay someone else to dig the hole. He found the trouble spot and called 'the guy' (you know - the professional that comes to tell you it's broken). So, now we have a big hole in the front yard waiting for 'the guy' to come fix it.

Layne came home from a local thrift store with this table - that actually fits our whole family without a leaf in it. Yea! We've been working on this one since Rachel was old enough to sit at the table. We could even put the leaves in and have people come over now! That's a good thing. (I keep hesitating to have people over because I'm not sure where to put them - and, we still have the rest of the house that looks a bit retro. Oh, and I'm not that great at the whole cooking thing - it would have to be when Layne would be available to 'whip something up'.)
He also bought a new mattress for Megan. She's been using a toddler bed since - well, since she was a toddler (and Rachel 'kicked' her out of the crib). How many 5 year olds do you know that use a toddler bed? I know...our poor children! Rachel will now use the toddler bed with the mattress from the crib. She feels like she's moving up because - well, she's been using the crib mattress on the floor (ever since she climbed out of the crib onto the changing table). But still - how many 3 year olds do you know that are still using a toddler bed? (It's more than the number of 5 year olds I'm sure.) It's a good thing she's still toddler size. The mattress from the toddler bed went straight to the trash! We need to paint the room and the trundle bed they'll share before we buy a mattress for Rachel and get it all set up.

Dog Poop!?!?!

I was just watering our lawn and found some dog poop in the back yard! It's bad enough to find it (along with whatever the cats leave behind) in the front yard. But, the back yard? I didn't even know animals could get back there. The worst part? WE HAVE NO PETS!!

My children don't poop in the neighbors yard - why do their pets get to poop in ours?

It Has Begun

We received the class lists for the kids this past week. It feels like my 'feels like a part time job' is creeping up on me. I got roped into being the coop/snack schedule person for the Kindergarten class. It's part paper work and part mentor. So, I get to do school stuff before school even begins. It seems odd that summer is half over and it's time to get ready for another school year.

Acclaimed Accomplishments

Jacob's working hard at becoming better at skateboarding.

He's also taking a guitar class and has gotten his first blister.

We played 'Clue' the other day. Jacob amazed me with his progress in figuring out a strategy. He did pretty well. Maybe he'll think like his Dad some day.:}

I've been into clouds lately. Here's a picture of the sky right before a storm the other night.

The Rest of the Story (July 4)

This afternoon we went to This is the Place Heritage Park. The weather was great and we did some things we hadn't done in times past. They have a 'new' playground. It's several small building for kids to pretend they're in a town from times past. We missed the staged 'bank robbery' (in a different part of the park) because the kids were busy getting Layne while he was staging a 'train robbery' in the playground area. The kids also went for a pony ride (except for Jonny), we went on the small train - we love this one. The whole family went. It's track goes around a pretty pond and the view is great. Today was also our first time in the "Indian Village". It's one of the newer parts of the park. All those that wanted to had a chance to make an arrowhead necklace. It's fun to be there with the workers/volunteers in costume. The gentlemen helping at the Indian Village told us some things that Jonny and I got to learn about this past year in Social Studies. I actually knew something Layne didn't - kind of amazing.:}

After the park - we came home, had a BBQ (chicken, corn on the cob - two grilled favorites...fruit salad, tomatoes/cottage cheese and a drink Layne did (with the boys) - limeade, lemon/lime soda and strawberries...yumm.), did some sparklers and a couple of fireworks, played tag in the backyard and called it a day.

We had beautiful weather today. Sunny, some clouds, rain for a few minutes and warm but not 'dying of heat' hot.

Happy 4th of July

We went to a concert in the park last night - we heard the Army Band play some patriotic favorites. Fun show!

Today we have participated in our stake's program/parade/breakfast and gotten a couple of productive things done.

The morning is almost gone and we're trying to decide which of the outdoor plans to go with today - or, we might just stay indoors considering it has sprinkled and looks like more rain is coming.

Right now we're just doing low key stuff. Layne and Jacob are playing golf on the Wii and the other kids are watching a show Megan chose at the library yesterday.

We're hoping to BBQ a little later on.

This past week, our family has talked about our country, the freedoms we enjoy and how lucky we are to be a part of this nation. We are very blessed! Happy Freedom Day to all!!

What? No Camera

During the summer, I usually have my camera attached to my hand (or at least in my pocket). It seems like there are just too many 'picture moments' to put it away. My current issue is that the battery compartment won't open! So, the camera works, there's plenty of memory space - just no power. I've found if I wait a day or two there's just enough juice to take another picture or two. I know - sounds so desperate. Now, I'm hoping that by waiting a couple of days I'll be able to download some pictures. (I've been downloading more often these days - just in case.) Wish me luck!

Here are some things I would post pictures of if I had them (some I just plain didn't take and some might be here in the future if I can get them to download).

I had a GREAT time at Girls' Camp a couple of weeks ago! Wonderful gals, cool leaders to work with and a beautiful setting. (Thanks to babysitting grandparents who made it possible - Layne was even out of town on business part of the time.)

The boys are taking guitar classes and the girls are taking a music class. They're through the community and are a great deal.

We went downtown last week for Disney's Water Day - kids running through water and getting free Creamies were the highlights. (They weren't too interested in dancing with the 'Disney dancers'.)

The kids and I went to the library for an 'interactive' viewing of the Incredibles movie.

Our garden is taking shape. We're excited to taste the 'vegetables of our labors'.

Both of the boys went to their respective Scout Camps and had a great time.

Jonny has completed all of the requirements for his Wolf. (He should receive it during the next Pack Meeting.)

We went to an outing in the park for both Megan and Jacob's classes. It was fun to spend time with classmates/families outside of class.

I've been doing some fun things with the Young Women. This ward really does have some great youth.

Aunt Kerri came to visit. The kids were bummed she and their grandparents couldn't stay longer.

We've played in the backyard - the kids are starting to associate that with 'otter pops'. It's hot!

We finished putting together the fountain in our backyard - and, the roses are finally pruned.

The kids and I have gone a few times to 'free lunch' at the park.

We tried a new park a couple of days ago. It has a skatepark (Jacob liked that part) , a couple of playgrounds, plenty of shade, and is home to the International Peace Gardens. (It's also one of the 'free lunch' sites - so, we didn't even need to pack a lunch.) We might try it again.

We've gone to several 'Concerts in the Park'. It's good music and an informal setting - so, it works great for the whole family.

I had a Birthday that I got to celebrate at camp and then we also went out the night we got back from camp. (Not sure it was an actual Bday celebration - but, it was fun to do something with the whole family and g.ma/g.pa.) We went to dinner, a concert in the park and then for a scoop of ice cream.

The kids and I went to the 'Spring Fiesta' (in June) at the Multicultural Center that's not far from us. It included 'bouncy toys', food, live music, water and all the cotton candy/snow cones they could eat. We went home tired and happy.

We've been doing some things with our ward - a Primary Activity to Temple Square, the Scout BBQ, Father/Son Camp-out, Ward 'Olympics'

We've also gone to a couple of gatherings with friends - BBQs, Birthday parties and 'Showers' (baby and bridal).

We're looking forward to: celebrating the 4th of July, a family reunion, Pioneer Day, events at the library, more outings, free days at local places/events, a ward reunion/camp-out, more classes (guitar/music - next month...TaeKwonDo and tumbling).

Now, if I could just get a better learning time/job routine going it would be great. I usually start the summer with more of a plan in place. This time it seems there's so much to work on I'm a little overwhelmed.

Quick Quotes and Quirky Quips

The other day Layne noticed a sticky floor from where Megan had tried to clean up the lemonade she spilled. Megan stated, "Me had an accident." Layne attempted to correct her by saying, "I had an accident." Megan responded..."Me too!". She was thrilled she and her Dad had something in common.:}

The other day we were driving in the van. I'm not sure how the topic came up - but, I asked the kids if they thought we should have another child in our family. The boys simultaneously exclaimed, "YES!". It was 'in stereo' and had an excited ring to it. Megan thought for a couple of seconds and then gave a definite "No". She seemed quite sure of her answer. Rachel didn't answer me - so, I repeated the question. More silence from her side of the car. She eventually let out a very subtle, "blue". I wasn't sure what to make of it - so, I asked her to repeat herself. She then said "Blue" with a little more conviction - still in her cute, little voice. Hmm...still not sure what to make of that one - but it has cracked the boys up ever since.

Wii Fit

Layne gave me a Wii Fit for Mother's Day. I was a bit surprised. It seemed like a lot for a day we usually get showed with homemade gifts from the kids. He said something about a huge sale he couldn't pass up. (That usually means he's been thinking about it for awhile and just found the best deal.) The difference between Layne and I? I would have hid it and saved it for a birthday or Christmas.:} Layne is not one to wait - which also makes it hard to purchase gifts for him. We can get to the day before his birthday and he'll go buy it for himself! What is that about? Why don't you just wait a day so we don't end up having two?:} Anyway!! My real point was...

I LOVE MY NEW WII FIT!! I tried it again today. (Yes, it's taken me awhile to get around to it.) I like the variety and that it starts out where you are and goes from there. I also really like the idea that I can do a few minutes anytime during the day. Thank you Layne!!

White Trash Look

This is our current 'white trash' look. We had a window get broken and we were told it will take a month to replace. Apparently, it takes awhile to custom make a new window. Really?!?!? A month? Hmm...not sure I believe it really takes that long.

I'm sure our neighbors love having the 'spider web' look available to them on a daily basis. I just hope it stays together until the new one comes! Layne was smart enough to tape the bottom - or it would have fallen out already.

Home repair - all it takes is Duct Tape or WD40, right? (Just wish the permanent solution was that simple, quick and inexpensive.)

BORING!

I guess I could try and write about something else besides the weather, being sick or rather it feels like summer or not. Somehow that's just what comes to mind when I have a minute or two to write.

I could be writing about the kids, Father's Day and the adventures we're having.

Summer Daze

I'm still not feeling the summer vibe. Very odd! I've been to Girls' Camp, the kids have been out of school for almost 2 weeks and they have started their classes. Maybe it'll feel more real once I get to experience taking them to their classes and we get outside more. I'm hoping the rain will let us. I'm looking forward to some summer adventures. We also need our routine. Tomorrow we're going to begin learning time and jobs. Hopefully, it'll start feeling like summer before the first month of it is over.:}

It Doesn't Feel Like Summer

We didn't go to the last couple of days of school, we don't have a routine down yet and it keeps raining.  (I've been wearing long pants all week.)  I'm thinking one of these days it really will feel like summer and it'll end up being half over.  Not sure how to kick myself into gear.  Maybe I needed the end of year closure at school more than the kids did.:} 

New Toothbrushes for Everyone!

It's the first official day of summer break and we're celebrating with new toothbrushes.  That's what everyone does, right?  We've been sick and seem to be doing much better.  Today was our - stay home just to be sure we don't give anyone else any germs day.  Last night everyone got clean sheets and tonight it's new toothbrushes (don't want germs jumping back into mouths again).

We're excited everyone is better.  We're also glad we get to venture out of the house tomorrow.  Today we've had kids climbing the walls, a couple of meltdowns, a couple of naps and one broken window. Hopefully, tomorrow will be better.:}

New Blog

I started a new blog.  Just click on the link on the side bar if you're up for checking it out.  It's not much at the moment - just a work in progress.

Summer Vacation Begins!

Tuesday will be the last official day of school.  The boys have been counting down - as have I for the last little while and we're finally here.  Then, we had a twist of fate.  After all of the hard work and end of the school year events - we're sick.  Apparently, the swine flu has been going around the school and no one has shown symptoms until this past week-end.  There are a couple of other things going around too.  We have something - Layne and Rachel seem to be alright so far.  Although, Rachel did mention a tummy ache when she first woke up this morning.  Hmm...

What a great way to start our summer break - early.  We didn't get anyone to school today and will be staying home tomorrow.  We're sad about that because there are some traditions in place at the school that will happen without us.  (We're not sure about attendance for tomorrow - but, today...only about half the students were there.)  We just might have to plan a get together with the classes - so we (and other families that missed out) will still get a chance to have some closure for the year and say good-bye to friends who are moving on in the fall.

One thing I like about the school is the close knit community.  So, to miss the last day and the association that will be taking place is hard for all of us.  OK - so, the boys and I - the girls think it's fun too.  But, it'll be a couple of years before they realize what they're missing.  I'm glad we'll be back in the fall.  Both of the boys have already asked if they could attend through 8th grade.  We'll see how it goes.  They are excited Megan will be joining them in Kindergarten and sad that Rachel won't be doing preschool there.  It was fun to see them interact with Megan during her PreK year.  Jacob's classmates were 'reading buddies' with her and all of her classmates.  That was fun for both of them.  It's also been fun for me to go in and say 'hi' during recess.

The boys are sad about missing the last days of school - but, they are equally (if not more) sad about having to cancel a BBQ we were going to have with former neighbors.  It's a fun end of the year thing to do in student housing - celebrate getting through another year of school - every household has at least one student...so it works well.  (How's that for a long sentence?)

Happy summer to all!  We're hoping everyone has a happy and healthy one.

That Tasted Like Heaven!

Layne BBQ'd tonight.  Good stuff.  Jacob was part way through the meal and said, "This tastes like heaven.".  So glad to have a husband that cooks occasionally and is good at it.

No pictures!?!?

It's Thursday - and, I just had a thought to write about last Thursday.  (Don't ask - my brain just works that way.)

We had a good, fun filled day.  We started the day with some extra young friends over, went to the school for their 'culture fair', headed for the playground where we used to live to play/meet up with friends, came home, had dinner, got the boys to Scouts (while Layne was talking with the 'sprinkler guy'), and I went to an Enrichment meeting where Sister Beck (General Relief Society President the LDS church) spoke.  It was a great day!  I will need to give more details later.  The odd thing - I TOOK NO PICTURES!!  That's just not how I usually work.  Maybe it was too much effort to just enjoy the day AND take pictures.  Typically, I'm the one clicking away with the camera strap around my wrist.  I even remember taking the effort to go back to the van and get the camera while we were at the playground!

I remember the kids clothes even matched - they didn't match each other...that's rare even when we get a picture taken.  I'm just saying - all four of them had on outfits that were public worthy and the top/bottom part of the outfits matched each other.  That's a big day at our house.  (We usually have kids that seem to be still learning or just plain don't care.)

Outside Oasis

Ok, so our backyard isn't exactly a tourist trap yet - but, we like having one.  This is one of the days last week when the girls and I read outside.  We've also had some 'picnics' outside before taking Megan to preschool.

Jonny Will Be OK

Last week, while in Jonny's class - they had a substitute.  They had done some art before recess and were expected to clean up as they were leaving.  (Their usual teacher gives them a few minutes beforehand to clean up.  This time the sub told them it was time to go and clean up all at the same time - needless to say, some of the kids had some issues.  Life just isn't fair!  They actually missed a whole five...maybe ten minutes of their double recess (30 minutes) because they were expected to clean up their own mess.  So sad.:})  Some of the paint brushes and other items had just been left in the sink. Jonny and some of his classmates voluntarily stayed in to help clean up.

Here's Jonny hanging out with the gals.  (I hope he continues to choose good friends - all of these gals are cute, fun and just plain good.  I'm also hoping that as he gets older, I still have a chance to know the kids he associates with as well as I do now - huge benefit from being in the classroom so much.)

I had to put this one in here - because it's just plain Jonny.  Smiling and telling me all about a story he's writing.  There's always more telling than writing.  He has a great imagination!

So, to sum up - Jonny is great at helping wherever he's needed, is comfortable hanging out with the gals (as well as the guys), is creative and cheerful.  All of this coming from the guy that thinks he doesn't have any friends and doesn't feel like he has much going for him.  Truth be known - he's going to be OK.

Simple Machines

Jacob's class has been learning about simple machines.  Last week they each had a chance to make a catapult that would launch a marshmallow.

Setting up for the launch.

Eating the results.

(The boys with Jacob are the ones that made sure he had a t-shirt earlier in the year so he wouldn't feel left out.)

Dancing Debut

The girls have been taking a dance class.  They have loved it.  This is the performance during the last class.  They were ice cream cones and then a scarf was draped over them to represent a 'flavor'.  The sun (yellow scarf used by the teacher) would come and melt them during the day (crouch on the floor/floor routine) then at night they would become 'ice cream ghosts' and would then get up and do their dance steps while moving around the room.  The teacher would then come and 'melt' them again.  They did pretty well.  It was cute to watch.  I only caught the last part.

'Bumping into' Elder Perry

Yep!  It's true.  We saw Elder Perry sauntering (with great purpose) from one meeting to another yesterday.  We eventually ended up being at the same corner waiting to cross the street.  Jacob, being the 'in motion' kind of a guy he is backed right up to the tall, lanky gentleman without even noticing.  I had noticed the man and told the children who it was - obviously very nonchalantly.

Here's some proof that my children have 'selective hearing' when it comes to discerning my voice.  I brought the topic up today and they had no idea what I was talking about - and no recollection of any of the previously mentioned event.  Such is the life of a mother.

Happy Easter

I like this message (The only true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent) from Elder Holland.  There was a longer message I also liked - that brings the emotions closer to the surface.  It's titled - 'None were with Him' - also by Elder Holland.  Somehow the visual gives more meaning for me.

Young Women Leadership Training

Sometimes location is a plus.  I had a chance to attend the Young Women General Leadership Training last week.  Because - well, church leaders wanted to add something to their week of General Conference.  I love the General Young Women Presidency/Board! They are inspirational.  It was a great training.  This is a picture I snapped while heading back to the vehicle.

Just as an update:  Virtue has been added as one of the Young Women Values - and, the challenge that's been given to all Young Women and their leaders is to do three things daily...1. pray morning/night 2. read the Book of Mormon 5 minutes 3. smile!  Join us.:}

Ju Jitsu and Skateboarding

What do these two things have in common?  They are the Sport Choices Jonny and Jacob had this past time around.  Can you picture Jonny doing martial arts and trying to 'throw' a classmate over his head?  Or, Jacob tearing it up at the skate park (He's requested that we go to the skate park during Spring Break next week.)

The girls and I are going to go watch them this morning as they have Performance Day today.  Jacob will actually be doing some wrestling (sport from last session) as the off-campus sports are a bit hard to perform in the school gym.  

I'm glad their school does this in lieu of P.E. time.  It gives them a wider range of activities, lets them try more things they might not have and most of it is less competitive.

I spoke too quickly

We had a couple of warm days and now we're back to cold and rainy (yesterday/today).  I asked a couple of youth last night when they thought Spring would actually get here and they laughed.  They said they were just used to skipping it.  Here are the official seasons around here - winter, winter, summer and winter - those 'winters' that take the place of spring and fall here are a more mild version - but, still winter nonetheless.  Some days it's enough to make me want to move back to sunnier places.

The Details of Spring

I forgot to mention earlier some of the details I love about spring.  I love being able to open the windows and have the fresh air fill the house.  I love seeing the small buds appear on trees.  I also love noticing the effort of colorful flowers beginning to shoot through the ground.  I love when children can go outside to play.  I love having the sun cheer me and help me feel more productive and vibrant.

Could it really be Spring?

We actually saw people in short sleeves today!!  It's the second day in a row we've had sun and it's a comfortable temperature outside (as opposed to 35 degrees).  

It makes me wonder if we're ready for summer.  The boys have already let me know there are 8 weeks left of school.  They actually like school - but, they're still kids.  I'm actually looking forward to a little down time myself.

Spring Break is next week - maybe I'll get something organized - or not.  We'll see how it goes...for now I'm just glad it's not snowing.

Would you like to hear more?

While we were out and about, I noticed some people out by the temple with signs.  There were a couple of signs that seemed to have the same message - the large print on the top stated, "READ THE BIBLE!".

Another sign read, "Jesus Christ is the one to bring salvation to all men.".  (At least I think that's what it said - that's at least the way I read it.)

I was curious why they were out there making noise.  Then it occurred to me that tomorrow General Conference begins.  Apparently, they were getting an early start.  As we passed by later, they were gone.

When I read the signs, I felt just fine about them.  I'm good with the idea of reading the Bible and I'm just fine with the idea that Christ is my Savior.  I'm guessing there must have been something in the smaller print that I might not have agreed with - but if reading the Bible and stated who the Savior is...well, if those are the most contentious points you can come up with...do you want to come inside and listen to more?

Healthness and Loveness

Megan said our family prayer tonight.  She asked that we would have 'healthness and loveness'.  Loved the verbage - and the thought behind it.  She's quite an original!

Sunday Walk

We went on a walk a couple of week ago.  I was reminded of a couple of things.

Boys can (and will) make a weapon out of anything!
I'm glad my kids like each other and enjoy spending time together.
My husband doesn't really like the combination of me/camera/him as a subject.  (You can still tell he's handsome, right?)
My children choose their own clothes and get dressed by themselves (mostly...Rachel still occasionally gets help with the getting dressed part).  Someday I should do a 'disclaimer' post with several of the 'original' outfits my children have worn in public.  Many people might not know that our kids really do have clothes that match - it would help if they would actually wear the matching items together...at the same time.  Maybe someday they'll care - maybe not.  It's just not my job anymore.:}

My Knight in Shining Armor

I was at a Young Women event the other night.  One of the girls had just asked me for a ride home (since her cool family just lives across the street from us).  I told her sure - but, she'd have to put up with Layne's truck (for the whole 1/2 mile).  She had no worries about that...so, we finished a conversation and headed out.  I did the usual - went to grab my keys from the place I attach them to my purse.  (I'm almost compulsive about this - I don't leave the house without feeling for my keys, looking at them and knowing that I have them in my hand.  It's a similar routine when turning off the engine and getting out of the vehicle.)  I checked again in the place I had been sitting. Nope - the keys were not in the home we were meeting in - nor were they anywhere to be found in my purse.  It finally occurred to me to check in the ignition of the truck.  The thought took awhile in coming because - well, I'm just not one to lose my keys...and certainly not one to LOCK them in the car!  Sure enough - there were my keys - locked inside a vehicle - in the ignition and ready to go...if only someone could actually reach them so they could be used appropriately.  I went in the house and called Layne (good thing we finally got a cell phone).  His first reaction was laughter.  I think mostly due to the fact that I had brought him my key a few days earlier in order to unlock the truck so he could extract his keys from the the ignition.  (I believe that's a first too.)  What are the odds that two different people would lock their keys in a truck (within the same week) that probably wouldn't get stolen even if someone did notice the keys in the ignition and the doors were unlocked.  (Yep...it's that old!)

Anyway...the point is that Layne came and saved the day.  He brought me some keys and even drove the truck home while I drove the van back home with the patient young woman that just wanted a ride back to her home.

When I saw Layne coming up the stairs to the front door when he brought the keys - the thought popped into my head, "Ah, my knight in shining armor!".  So, I just had to share.  

Funny that we both made the same mistake in the same week. (Hopefully we're done with that one for the next couple of decades.) Nice we laughed through it and moved forward.  Wonderful we 'have each other's backs'.  Glad I have someone to help me out when I'm lame.:}

So many topics - so little time

I can think of something daily that would be great to blog.  Do I ever get to it - obviously not.  So...here are some of the topics I would have written about if I had been 'with it' enough at the time.

Jacob and Rachel's Birthdays (10 and 3 respectively)

Christmas

Thanksgiving

Halloween

Spring (color is coming back)

Jacob earning/receiving his Bear in Scouts

Kids - things they do and say

Current reads

The difference between renting and owning ($!)

Involvement at the school

Layne's work on the yard

The great things about where we live

Our callings in our new ward (YW and EQ)

How the kids are growing

Megan and her PreK class

My husband has a job (too many around us don't)

Boys and Scouting

Rachel would rather have me coop (so she can see friends)

Draper Temple - open house and dedication

The girls' dance class

The kids doing soccer last fall

The boys 'addiction' with Wii

Outings - Thanksgiving Point, etc...

Cool stuff kids are doing at school

Ideas for a new and improved house and yard

That's all for now.

Laundry Confusion

Why is it that 'Sunday' clothes can end up in the laundry without being dirty...

and Scout uniforms that are dirty get put back in the closet (not hung up - just 'in the closet')?  Hmm...

But wait...there's more!

Just wanted to share more of the joy that we call our home.  (I know...I could make a collage or slideshow - but, that takes more time.  So, we're doing it the non-creative old fashion way.  In case you couldn't tell - I don't even take the time to edit pictures - pathetic really.  But, it's either that or nothing at all.)

We have a real dishwasher!  OK - so just ignore the fact that it was installed crooked.  But, it's exciting to be able to start the dishwasher and not have to worry about when I need to turn the water off, it's quiet and under the counter - thus, taking up the least amount of room as possible.
This charming cherub clock was found on the wall in our bedroom. Ya...it's true - I don't see the hour hand either.  But, it does chime every hour - so, you really do have a good idea about what time it is. Our first night here, Layne took it off the wall and turned off the lovely hourly tune it played.  The next day, Rachel pulled off the second hand.  Needless to say - we said a fond farewell.
Check out the 'shiny' wallpaper.  This picture does not give the wall the glaring praise it deserves.  Each room in this house (main/up) has shiny wallpaper (different in each room) and LONG, thin drapes. (Most of it just seems like a large piece of lace.)  There's also wallpaper that runs the length of the hall and into the front room - with a different style of wallpaper on the adjacent wall.  How's that for style?  Can you say, 'This room needs an update?'
This has to be one of the favorites!  Is this not THE most romantic decorating you could picture for a 'master bedroom'?  Try going to sleep under this every night.:}  By the way - what color is the carpet anyway?  Is there a name for that?  (I know it's hard to tell with just a tiny corner of it showing - but, I think you'd have a tough time coming up with a name even if you could see the whole floor.)

"Before Picture" Party

I keep thinking it would be a fun idea to have a 'before picture' party. You know...a gathering where everyone comes to see our house before we make changes to it.  Then...when we have finished a few things - we have another gathering for the update.  I'm not sure if we'd ever feel like we were 'done' - but, then people would be able to see the difference.  The dilemma is that it's taking us longer to feel 'moved in' than I thought, it seems like the 'sick' season of the year and it would be nice if the weather were warmer so we could have people check out the backyard too.  Maybe we'll do it in the spring. Hmm...

4th grade boys...

I cooped yesterday.  I was in Jonny's 3rd/4th class.  I had a tough time with one of the 4th grade boys in our group (and his 'partners in crime').  During recess, I needed to get out of the classroom and take a few deep breaths.  I visited Megan's preschool class while they were having part of their Valentine celebration.  I then went to Jacob's classroom to check something out due to a previous conversation.  

I got to Jacob's classroom and most of the kids were at recess.  Their class is doing 'Secret Friends' this week.  I have mixed opinions/feelings about this week that happens at this school every year.  Yesterday was one of the reasons I happen to like this tradition (sort of...earlier in the day - I wanted them to banish it).  

When I first approached the classroom, there were a couple of girls just outside the door.  When I mentioned recess they told me they were 'secret friends monitors'.  (There to make sure that those going in or out of the room were 'safe' as they made or left something for a secret friend.)  I walked in and found a couple of Jacob's friends with a white t-shirt spread across the table.  (You have to know this is a big ticket item for this class this year and also part of the reason I had a bad attitude earlier in the day - Jacob and I had some hurt feelings about his secret friend not receiving one yet.  Some of the teachers provide materials for variety or in case a child forgot to bring something that day - they are to give something each day for a full week.  This time, Jacob's teacher had a bunch of white t-shirts available and 'everyone' was having one made.)

So...back to the story.  Jacob's friends found out that his secret friend had not planned on making one for him - so, they asked their classmate if it was OK if they made one for Jacob.  The giver was apparently fine with that.  So, these guys stayed in during recess in order to make something for a friend that they thought he would like. It wasn't until later that I wondered how many 4th grade boys would notice that their friend might feel left out, decide to do something about it, check with someone else (they didn't want to overstep the boundaries), and stay in during recess so they could make something for their friend.  I just 'happened' to walk in while they were starting. They asked me what Jacob liked and told me the story of how they wanted him to have one too.  I think they would have easily come up with something to put on it because they know him well enough.  I listed a few things Jacob likes and they laughed at a couple of times because they realized it was kind of silly they hadn't thought of it themselves.  Who knows...maybe one of them is Jacob's secret friend and they didn't want me to know.  (Maybe they thought I would tell their secret?  Whatever!  As if I would actually tell my child who their secret friend is...)

Jacob loved the shirt and thinks it's from his secret friend (along with an item that did actually come from his secret friend).  He now thinks one of the possibilities for the giver is one of the friends that drew on the shirt because he recognized his drawing.  I guess they draw stuff together quite a bit.  (Actually, I don't guess - I've seen the drawings when I've been trying to help them be on task with the real assignment.)

Rather one of these guys is the secret friend or not - I was still moved they would stay in at recess and be excited about doing that for a friend.  I was glad my first impression was that they were just making sure Jacob got a shirt.  I was glad they thought about their friend and wanted to do something for him.  It made me think about the school and how I'm glad they work with the whole child.  In lots of ways, it's much more work.  In so many ways - it's worth so much more.

So...even though not all of my experiences with 4th grade boys were positive yesterday - I walked out of the school feeling really good about them - and very glad that Jacob has friends at school that do things like think of how their friends might feel and do something to help that friend be happy.  This is typically an age where classmates might tease or bully.  I'm glad we've found a place for our children where that's rare and taken care of immediately.  There are things about Jacob that the rest of the world would find a way to make fun of - I'm especially glad for him that he is where he is (and glad they now have up through 8th grade).  I'm not sure what we're going to do when he gets to step out into the 'real' world.  He's made so much progress in the last couple of years that I'm hoping he's ready by then.

"We all lost our mind...

but, it's OK."  This is a quote from Megan as we were driving out of the parking lot today.  Completely random - although, it is the way I've felt for most of the day...and it's not even over yet.:}  (Maybe she was picking up on my vibe.)

Jonathan James

I just had to mention another newborn.  I don't have pictures of this guy yet.  (I'm sure they're on their way - right?)  Our children now have 3 new cousins to love.

We are glad Cyndi and Steve had Jonathan James join their family this past week!

Baby James

Ok...so, I'm only a month late with this one!!  You'd think I would have put it up earlier considering we were ready to take care of older siblings during winter break because we thought for sure this guy was going to come sooner than he did.  He's certainly worth the wait!!  

Congrats to Mike and Sarah!!

I love that Mike has a great way of helping others visualize (in pictures and in a very talented way...words).  So, I had to use the pictures that not only show the handsome newborn - but, give you a sense of his size and obvious food obsessions later on in life - ok, maybe not obvious food obsession - I guess he is sleeping through it.:}

Decor

I might do this in more than one post.  I was only able to upload so many pictures at at time.  We've had lots of questions about our house.  I thought I would share some photos of what we inherited.

Beautiful butterflies on the bathroom wall (a set of three...can you see the dust from where you're sitting?).  It's quite the yellow bathroom - the photo below (yellow shower curtain) is across from the butterfly wall.  
Jacob found this little spot first - he thought it was a bit like the lofts he saw at his cousins' house this summer.  They are actually far from the same idea - but, whatever works.  Yes, they did climb in using the door handles.  Hmm... (One of his requests for a new house was to have a loft in his room.)
The kids' bathroom is VERY YELLOW!
We even have a fireplace.  I think we've used it once.  Better work on that - although, it is gas...so, we'll just try not to think of the money going up in smoke when we use it.
Who can resist wagon wheel lights in the kitchen?  There are two of these beauties hanging over our heads every day.