Saturday, December 27, 2008
Thanks Santa!
Santa visited and brought the children wonderful toys. Little Man received the Radio Control Hummer he wanted, Little Miss received the Littlest Pet Shop stuff she wanted. Randy received the range bag, and me a Laminator. What could be better? And then there was one more for Randy and I. I have to say this might be my favorite gift, and I am shocked. We got Guitar Hero for our Wii, with two guitars. Who knew it was so much fun? Not me. Who knew I liked to play Wii so much? Not me. Thanks Santa. This is one of the coolest real toys I have had in a long time.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Twas the Night Before Christmas
Or the day. And I realized that the Christmas Jammies due that night were not yet cut out. I grabbed my scissors, I grabbed my fabric, and cut away. I cut some for Randy, Little Man, Little Miss, and me. I cut them quickly not wanting to waste anytime. I was rushing the clock to get them all done. I pinned and I sewed. And I hurried some more. I hurried so much that I cut them too small for my rear, and made them look like M.C. Hammer for Randy. The kids will fit but for now I will scatter. Off to the mall to fix this matter.
Merry Christmas from us. We hope it is well. Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas from us. We hope it is well. Merry Christmas.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
The Naughty Children
Today during Church we had gorgeous music. The Sunday before Christmas is one of my favorite Sunday's of the year. We get to listen to Christmas Music and feel the Spirit of Christmas, and remember the true reason for the season. I love every minute of it. This year I was accompanying the choir for two numbers. Randy joined in singing with the choir and that left my two sweet children to sit alone for two songs.
We talked about sitting quietly and reverently. We talked about how we act and what we should do. We talked about it a lot. I was sure I got it through their cute little skulls. And I think I had succeeded. The first song went off with out a glitch. I went and sat with them and they were sitting quietly and I beamed. They were so well behaved. I thought I could hear the angels singing and rejoicing with me. I felt like Mother of the Year. My five and seven year old were sitting so quietly, and they snuggled up to me and were so sweet, it was blissful.
And then it came time for song number two. I figured this song would go just as easily without a glitch and all would be well. I was wrong. Oh so very wrong. I sat on the piano bench only to have two adorable children join me. I looked at them told them to sit still and we started, what else do you do? And I believed they would sit there looking angelic, I mean they just wanted to be close to their dear Mommy right? And then I started to play, and Little Miss told me to scoot over, and Little Man said he was squished, umm sorry kids, I am in the middle, and my butt doesn't get any smaller. Little Miss wanted me to move, and I shushed her and kept playing. Then Little Man sat down on the floor. She quickly followed suit. And then the real fun began. (At home they often climb on me, and are trying to do it all while I play.) They grabbed my feet and tried to get them off of the pedals, and succeed at times, and tried to do the pedals themselves. They grabbed my hands, my bracelet, anything they could. They played the low bass keys, and the high treble keys. They undid their shoes Velcro growing louder by the second. The bumped and wiggled the grand piano and shook my music. They tried to get me to stop all together. I gave them the best discreet dirty looks I could. I told them to stop, and I even tried, but failed in my attempt to kick them to stop them. I wondered how the children who sat so wonderfully moments before could now be terrorizing me at this very moment. The choir sang almost a full page a capella thanks to my children. And Little Man took my shoes and stuck them at the far end of the piano where it was hard to find and reach.
When it was done, I gathered my shoes, I gathered my music, and I gathered my children and we sat as far to the side as we could on the stage. Little Miss sat on my lap, and I kept my arm around Little Man as the tears came. I can handle mistakes and screw ups when I play music. I am normally giggling all the way as I play when I make mistakes. And today would have been the same if it had just been me making the mistakes, not my children sabotaging the choir. As I sat there thinking of the drastic things I could do, crack their little heads together and knock some sense into them. That seemed just wrong. I could send Santa a letter telling him they were naughty. I could take away all of their Christmas presents. I could ground them, take away their toys.
I had all of these ideas and then our Bishop spoke. He spoke and I think it was just for me. To soften my heart, to open my eyes to see my children they way I normally do, and to see them the way our Savior sees my Precious Children. I am their Mother. They are my children. My children love me, and want to do everything I do. They are happy to follow me, to copy me, to spend all of their time with me. And today they wanted to be near me. And they were okay until they forgot where they were, because at home they do that and we play around. At Church however during a program is not the time to do such a thing. I am grateful for words to remind me how precious and sweet they are so quickly. For the Spirit to bring me back to a place to be able to see that. Grateful to be their Mother, and to have the blessing of having my two sweet children.
And tonight the children practiced being reverent. They sat quietly with their arms folded and learned what is appropriate behavior for Church. And amazingly everyone said it sounded great, and no one admitted to hearing the blunders provided by my beautiful children. And people didn't realize the drama my children were causing. They all thought they were being sweet and angelic, sitting with their Mother. They had them fooled.
We talked about sitting quietly and reverently. We talked about how we act and what we should do. We talked about it a lot. I was sure I got it through their cute little skulls. And I think I had succeeded. The first song went off with out a glitch. I went and sat with them and they were sitting quietly and I beamed. They were so well behaved. I thought I could hear the angels singing and rejoicing with me. I felt like Mother of the Year. My five and seven year old were sitting so quietly, and they snuggled up to me and were so sweet, it was blissful.
And then it came time for song number two. I figured this song would go just as easily without a glitch and all would be well. I was wrong. Oh so very wrong. I sat on the piano bench only to have two adorable children join me. I looked at them told them to sit still and we started, what else do you do? And I believed they would sit there looking angelic, I mean they just wanted to be close to their dear Mommy right? And then I started to play, and Little Miss told me to scoot over, and Little Man said he was squished, umm sorry kids, I am in the middle, and my butt doesn't get any smaller. Little Miss wanted me to move, and I shushed her and kept playing. Then Little Man sat down on the floor. She quickly followed suit. And then the real fun began. (At home they often climb on me, and are trying to do it all while I play.) They grabbed my feet and tried to get them off of the pedals, and succeed at times, and tried to do the pedals themselves. They grabbed my hands, my bracelet, anything they could. They played the low bass keys, and the high treble keys. They undid their shoes Velcro growing louder by the second. The bumped and wiggled the grand piano and shook my music. They tried to get me to stop all together. I gave them the best discreet dirty looks I could. I told them to stop, and I even tried, but failed in my attempt to kick them to stop them. I wondered how the children who sat so wonderfully moments before could now be terrorizing me at this very moment. The choir sang almost a full page a capella thanks to my children. And Little Man took my shoes and stuck them at the far end of the piano where it was hard to find and reach.
When it was done, I gathered my shoes, I gathered my music, and I gathered my children and we sat as far to the side as we could on the stage. Little Miss sat on my lap, and I kept my arm around Little Man as the tears came. I can handle mistakes and screw ups when I play music. I am normally giggling all the way as I play when I make mistakes. And today would have been the same if it had just been me making the mistakes, not my children sabotaging the choir. As I sat there thinking of the drastic things I could do, crack their little heads together and knock some sense into them. That seemed just wrong. I could send Santa a letter telling him they were naughty. I could take away all of their Christmas presents. I could ground them, take away their toys.
I had all of these ideas and then our Bishop spoke. He spoke and I think it was just for me. To soften my heart, to open my eyes to see my children they way I normally do, and to see them the way our Savior sees my Precious Children. I am their Mother. They are my children. My children love me, and want to do everything I do. They are happy to follow me, to copy me, to spend all of their time with me. And today they wanted to be near me. And they were okay until they forgot where they were, because at home they do that and we play around. At Church however during a program is not the time to do such a thing. I am grateful for words to remind me how precious and sweet they are so quickly. For the Spirit to bring me back to a place to be able to see that. Grateful to be their Mother, and to have the blessing of having my two sweet children.
And tonight the children practiced being reverent. They sat quietly with their arms folded and learned what is appropriate behavior for Church. And amazingly everyone said it sounded great, and no one admitted to hearing the blunders provided by my beautiful children. And people didn't realize the drama my children were causing. They all thought they were being sweet and angelic, sitting with their Mother. They had them fooled.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Happy Birthday to my Daddy
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Today my Daddy is 66. And I don't blog about my Dad often enough.
A few things about my Dad.
-He is a hard worker.
-He loves the Gospel.
-He can build or fix anything.
-He is one of my favorite people.
-He is always there when we need him, and will do anything he can to help.
-He will kill spiders that are scary.
-He taught me to water ski.
-He laughed when I got cow poop all over me.
-He is a wonderful Dad.
-He gave me my stubbornness, and strong-will.
-He is the best Grandpa I know.
-He can't carry much of a tune, but sings anyways.
-He is one of my heroes.
Happy Birthday Dad! I wish I could be there to celebrate with you. Love you!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Dear Weatherman,
When we moved to Indiana everyone told me the winters were cold, and bitter. We would have snow, and a lot of it. I am feeling like I was lied to. Everyone I know has snow, even Las Vegas has snow, and three inches at that. Why can't we have snow? Please. Pretty please. I want snow, and I better have a white Christmas. (Demanding, I know.) And I guess technically we have snow, if you want to count the millimeter we have plus the ice on top of it. But I want snow I can build a snowman in, snow I can play in, snow we can sled on. Real snow.
Yours Truly,
Lee (Dying for some snow!)
Yours Truly,
Lee (Dying for some snow!)
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Girls Night!
Last night we had a girls night. It was much needed and so much fun. I am stealing pictures from Amanda's blog, because I didn't take my camera. Shocking I know.
We have had several people move into the ward and we had just a fantastic time hanging out, visiting, and getting to know each other better. With the holidays upon us it is nice to take a little bit of time to relax, laugh, and enjoy one anothers company.
Hopefully we can keep this up every month and have an awesome time getting to know each other and just having fun. Good friends, Good food, Good night. I think I have a pretty awesome group of friends, and I cannot wait to get to know everyone even better. And next time maybe even more people will come! The more the merrier!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Let's be real..
There is nothing like those phone calls you get before surgery or a new doctor appointment from the nurse wanting to go over your medical history. The ones that go like this:
Do you take any medications?
You reply, Yes.. I do. Want the list, and then rattle off several medications spelling, explaining, listing the doses and frequency in jargon they totally get. Verifying that yes you do really take that many allergy pills a day.
Have you had any surgeries?
You rattle that list off and you hear a gasp and a slight oh every now and then.
And then the medical problems.
Cue rattling off the problems you might have.. say Lupus.
*Gasp* Which comes with a sigh, oh honey, are you ok?
To which you reply if you saw me walking down the street you wouldn't have a clue there was anything wrong. I look fine, I act fine, I am fine. I just like to freak nurses out and have them wondering what type of patient they might be getting.
So let's be real. On paper, I look like a mess. A total mess. But when you see me in 3-D you get that while on paper I am a mess in real, I'm me. The girl running crazy, doing the Mom thing, and not allowing anything wrong to define me. I am me.
Do you take any medications?
You reply, Yes.. I do. Want the list, and then rattle off several medications spelling, explaining, listing the doses and frequency in jargon they totally get. Verifying that yes you do really take that many allergy pills a day.
Have you had any surgeries?
You rattle that list off and you hear a gasp and a slight oh every now and then.
And then the medical problems.
Cue rattling off the problems you might have.. say Lupus.
*Gasp* Which comes with a sigh, oh honey, are you ok?
To which you reply if you saw me walking down the street you wouldn't have a clue there was anything wrong. I look fine, I act fine, I am fine. I just like to freak nurses out and have them wondering what type of patient they might be getting.
So let's be real. On paper, I look like a mess. A total mess. But when you see me in 3-D you get that while on paper I am a mess in real, I'm me. The girl running crazy, doing the Mom thing, and not allowing anything wrong to define me. I am me.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Hmmm..
I remember when I first started blogging I had all of these things I wanted to write about. And now I am not sure. I sit down and I stare at the blank page and I wonder what should I blog about? Do I have anything interesting or worth while to say? Does anyone care? Do I even care? I keep thinking I could do some Photoshop Tutorials, but then I am not sure what anyone wants to learn. So I don't. And then I think I could show some pictures, but maybe people are over seeing my kids. I'm not, but maybe others are. Not that it matters, because this is my blog. Not theirs. And then I think I could divulge into some great topic. Or write something funny, but that isn't really me. I don't know how to be all humorous. And I think I could write about the fact that I went to my first Cub Scout Activity, and it wasn't bad. But maybe that is because all I did was sit there and chat it up with my girls, while we had Alan teach them basketball. And when it comes down to it you get me. Raw, pure, and me.
Sunday, December 07, 2008
The Parents.. and the Sista
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We had a delightful time the past week and a half shopping, laughing, visiting, and just being together. My parents went home today. We offered more pictures if they would stay longer, but something about needing to go home, feeding the cat, paying bills, not living here made them choose to go home. Rather than spend the rest of December here. The kids loved having their attention non-stop, and just having quality time. We loved seeing family, and we miss them already. And I am already planning the next time we get to see each other.
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Seven
This boy is seven.


This boy looks like this when you talk about the girl he is crushing on.
This boy loves his sister.

This boy loves his sister.

This boy makes me laugh.
This boy made me a Mother.
This boy made him a Father.
Seven years ago I welcomed my son with great anticipation. He was my son. I became a Mother. My life changed. Happy Birthday Sweet Boy. I love you.


This boy made him a Father.

Thursday, December 04, 2008
I Shoulda blogged this..
two days ago. But life has been busy. Tuesday we took my parents and sister with us to a Pacer game. My Dad saw an NBA game back in the 70's, and my Mom and sister had never been to one so they were excited, we were excited. The Pacers were playing the Lakers. Randy told me it was going to be a blow out the Lakers would beat the Pacers. I silently hoped that would not happen. I wanted to have OUR team beat the Lakers, and show my parents a fantastic game.
At the end of the third quarter I was sure the Lakers were going to win. And my heart was sinking. But then at the beginning of the fourth quarter something happened. The Pacers came alive. They took on the Lakers and rallied back. It was exciting to watch. My heart was racing, I cheered and jumped and whacked my head on the concrete wall. My kids cheered and were on the big tv four times with their great skills. The game intensified and my heart raced. And at the buzzer the Pacers won. 117-118. It was amazing. It reminded me of the NBA days back when the Chicago Bulls ruled the court, it was that kind of game for me. I was in awe. I was there, I watched them beat the Lakers. It was inspiring. It was the way the NBA was meant to be. Games that are down to the wire, where your heart races, you jump, you yell, you go hoarse from cheering, and your hands hurt from clapping.
Go Pacers!
At the end of the third quarter I was sure the Lakers were going to win. And my heart was sinking. But then at the beginning of the fourth quarter something happened. The Pacers came alive. They took on the Lakers and rallied back. It was exciting to watch. My heart was racing, I cheered and jumped and whacked my head on the concrete wall. My kids cheered and were on the big tv four times with their great skills. The game intensified and my heart raced. And at the buzzer the Pacers won. 117-118. It was amazing. It reminded me of the NBA days back when the Chicago Bulls ruled the court, it was that kind of game for me. I was in awe. I was there, I watched them beat the Lakers. It was inspiring. It was the way the NBA was meant to be. Games that are down to the wire, where your heart races, you jump, you yell, you go hoarse from cheering, and your hands hurt from clapping.
Go Pacers!
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Nothing says Christmas
Like snow on December 1st, and 2nd. And predicted for much of December. Here is hoping for a White Christmas.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Done!
November is over. And this is my last post for November, and now I have officially blogged everyday this month. It is a ton of work. I am sure December will not be as ambitious.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
We did it!
Finally a new family picture. Thanks Mom for helping us out. And I am not sure which one I like better. What's your preference? I like them each for different reasons.


And I have more and I might like other ones better once I am done editing. But I am grateful for my Mom's help. I got things lined up and then had her shoot. And now I get to edit.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Worn out
When you get up at 3:30 AM to go shopping because the deals are that good, and then drive 9 hours home, and then go shopping until 10:30 PM you are tired, happy, worn out and ready for bed. That would be me tonight. Today happens to be the best day in the year that isn't a holiday or a birthday. And I am ready for bed. Night.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving. I am thankful for many things. My family, the Gospel, life, our home and blessings. I hope everyone can reflect on what they are thankful for today.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Tired
9 hours in the car makes you tired. The kids enjoyed 5 movies. And we went through Illinois, Wisconsin, and are now in Minnesota. Off to play.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Really?
Yesterday Little Man told me about a new friend at school. He was quite excited that he had a new boy in his class. I asked him about recess and who he played with and what they did. He played with this new boy and they played poker. Yep you read that right POKER. I about died. Umm.. what do you mean poker? He explained that they had indoor recess and he did in fact play poker. Oh joy, he is six, does this really happen at six. I was skeptical, wondering if this new boy just taught my son a new game. But I was wrong my son taught him. Great right? That is what every parent wants to hear. And so I proceeded to ask Little Man where he learned it. Guess where? His teacher. He asked she explained it. And in good enough detail that he understood it. Isn't that what we all want for our kids to learn at school from their teacher? He even learned to bet with it.
Today has been eventful. I emailed the teacher with my concerns. Her reply was not understanding of our concerns. I tried to figure out what to do. I wanted acknowledgement that this would not happen again. And it wasn't happening. I have went between wanting to pull my kid out of school all together. To wanting a new teacher, to just being ticked. What kind of teacher does this? Really, did you think this was a good idea? It's not. Not at all. Eventually I found myself, Randy, the Principal (who is so not your PAL) and the teacher in one office. And finally an apology was said on behalf of the teacher, who was doing everything she could to deny and ignore that she had done anything wrong, or anything at all. I am frustrated with the situation. Frustrated at the fact that the teacher wasn't honest with us. And frustrated that part of my son's innocence was taken by his teacher.
Today has been eventful. I emailed the teacher with my concerns. Her reply was not understanding of our concerns. I tried to figure out what to do. I wanted acknowledgement that this would not happen again. And it wasn't happening. I have went between wanting to pull my kid out of school all together. To wanting a new teacher, to just being ticked. What kind of teacher does this? Really, did you think this was a good idea? It's not. Not at all. Eventually I found myself, Randy, the Principal (who is so not your PAL) and the teacher in one office. And finally an apology was said on behalf of the teacher, who was doing everything she could to deny and ignore that she had done anything wrong, or anything at all. I am frustrated with the situation. Frustrated at the fact that the teacher wasn't honest with us. And frustrated that part of my son's innocence was taken by his teacher.
Monday, November 24, 2008
It's Hard
To blog everyday. I am not sure what to blog about today. I haven't had this great eventful week. I have been busy just getting through life. And sometimes just getting through it is a success in itself. I have had several things on my mind lately.
-Do I stop and just snuggle my kids enough? Play with them? Just have fun?
-Am I doing the things I need to, to follow my Heavenly Father's plan?
-Am I patient enough? I don't think.
-Am I teaching my kids what they need to know to stand strong in today's volatile world?
-Am I being strong enough myself?
And the only thing I can do about these things is to do better try harder. One day at a time.
-Do I stop and just snuggle my kids enough? Play with them? Just have fun?
-Am I doing the things I need to, to follow my Heavenly Father's plan?
-Am I patient enough? I don't think.
-Am I teaching my kids what they need to know to stand strong in today's volatile world?
-Am I being strong enough myself?
And the only thing I can do about these things is to do better try harder. One day at a time.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Slacker
Every year family pictures come and I end up getting them done in November. Or December. But normally November when Misty and I can finally get our acts together and we get our families in the same town and do pictures. This year for some reason she wouldn't come to Indiana. Totally selfish huh? I mean it is only 2200 miles away from her. So here I sit a week before I normally get my Christmas cards ordered and I don't have a new picture. We had one scheduled at one point but we were rained out. And now it is cold. Very cold out. I am feeling like a slacker, and a total procrastinator. Hopefully while visiting family this week I can get a picture that is Christmas Card quality. And let me explain Christmas card quality. In years past we have sent both of these. 
So really we aren't picky. Hopefully soon you will see the new picture for 2008. And if I am lucky it will be worthy of being huge over my fireplace to replace last years.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Today I am Thankful for..
Wonderful, kind, helping friends. Today we went to Columbus, Ohio to go to the temple. And my wonderful friend Jackie and her husband Russell watched our kids so we could go together. Thank you a million times over. We needed to go, and are so grateful we could go. We are so very appreciative of their generosity and kindness. They took care of our kids, offered wonderful conversation, and fed us a delicious dinner. It is nice to spend time with friends. Especially when it has been seven years since we have seen each other. Hopefully we will be seeing them much more often. Thanks Jackie! You are the best!
Friday, November 21, 2008
He's My Basketball Star
Little Man had his first basketball game. It was awesome. (He has the red wrist band on.) All of the kids had different wrist bands on and the kids on the other team had coordinating ones. Then they knew who to guard. Great idea!
Showing off his mad dribbling skills. 
And you can see his hands up high, he had just shot the ball!
And he made it! He was so very excited.
The teams tied, 5 to 5. He made two of the baskets for his team, and was so excited. I loved watching him and watching Little Miss watch him. It was very reminiscent of me watching Seth bad when we were little. The kids played great, and it was super fun to watch. I can't for the next game.


And you can see his hands up high, he had just shot the ball!


The teams tied, 5 to 5. He made two of the baskets for his team, and was so excited. I loved watching him and watching Little Miss watch him. It was very reminiscent of me watching Seth bad when we were little. The kids played great, and it was super fun to watch. I can't for the next game.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The Room for Little Miss
Finally I am done.. pretty much with Little Miss' bedroom. The white pillow still needs to be personalized with her name. That should happen this week! I have to say this is the best job I have ever done decorating a room, am so happy with it, and pleased for her. She loves it!
And if you are in need of vinyl, like my killer polka dots and the nice A contact the lovely Terilyn, she does wonderful work!
And if you are in need of vinyl, like my killer polka dots and the nice A contact the lovely Terilyn, she does wonderful work!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Seven
Seven. It has been seven months since we moved to the wonderful state of Indiana. When I say that it sounds like a long time. I still feel like we just moved here. I still feel like I am getting my bearings on where things are. We have had the chance to make wonderful friends here, from our neighbors, to other Church members.
I have learned that I can find a mall no matter what. I can think of six that I like off of the top of my head that I frequent often. Six! Can you believe that? I can't say that Randy is nearly as thrilled as I am.
Living 2200 miles away from family is not as hard as I thought it would be. That is a major plus for me! I miss our extended family and parents, but life goes on. We have phones, email, webcams and life is okay. (And my Mom likes to come visit me!)
I am still very allergic to Indiana. Nice huh? All of the lush greenery- it is trying to do me in.
And in seven months we have managed to do a lot of fun things. We have done things to grow closer as a family. We are enjoying our time here together. And seven months.. it has went quickly.
I have learned that I can find a mall no matter what. I can think of six that I like off of the top of my head that I frequent often. Six! Can you believe that? I can't say that Randy is nearly as thrilled as I am.
Living 2200 miles away from family is not as hard as I thought it would be. That is a major plus for me! I miss our extended family and parents, but life goes on. We have phones, email, webcams and life is okay. (And my Mom likes to come visit me!)
I am still very allergic to Indiana. Nice huh? All of the lush greenery- it is trying to do me in.
And in seven months we have managed to do a lot of fun things. We have done things to grow closer as a family. We are enjoying our time here together. And seven months.. it has went quickly.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Something else to be grateful for...
I am grateful for animals. I have always loved animals. When I was little I wanted every dog, cat, horse, cow, sheep, donkey, or pig I could find. Pretty much if it was furry I wanted it. I even wanted my own monkey. I did have my own horse, cow, sheep, cat and dog growing up.
The sheep was much to my Father's dismay. Seth and I went to a livestock auction and this cute lamb came through and no one was bidding on him so I did. Against what I was specifically told that morning, you can buy cows if you want, but do not buy any sheep. (I have always been a great listener, and super obedient!) He was cheaper than a hamburger, I thought we made out pretty well. My Dad gave me a look when we told him and then he went and picked up Doc, what I named my lamb. I loved him and we were able to get him tame and he was the sweetest thing. And I was 14 when I bought this little guy. He died about 6 months later. And my Dad fought hard to keep him alive but he didn't make it.
I had my horse Gypsy. She is the most beautiful Arabian. And our personalities meshed perfectly. My Mom used to say you couldn't have found a better match between horse and owner. Both in a hurry and always on the go. And then she had a sweet baby Jinx. I was sad when I had to sell them both. But when you move where you don't have property for them it happens. I felt like I betrayed them. I still know where they are and occasionally go see them. Although it breaks my heart. They are mine in my heart still.
I loved our cows too. The first time any of them were butchered I happened to see the butcher shoot my steer. I lost it. And I gave the butcher a look of death. I was horrified. My steer was mellow and tame and walked right up to him not knowing his fate. And I refused to eat any of his meat. And then one day I learned I had been eating it, it was by far the best beef I had ever eaten.
And I had my cats I loved and adored growing up. And several dogs.
But now we have two wonderful dogs that my kids love as much as I did when I was little. This is Izzy. She is going to be 3 next month. She is fat and lazy and we love her. She will play fetch all day long. She is Little Man's dog. (Randy like to claim her to, but let's be real.) We love our Izzy. She is always happy to come in lay and her bed and sleep. Occasionally looking around to make sure we didn't completely abandon her, but just hang out and dream about food.
The sheep was much to my Father's dismay. Seth and I went to a livestock auction and this cute lamb came through and no one was bidding on him so I did. Against what I was specifically told that morning, you can buy cows if you want, but do not buy any sheep. (I have always been a great listener, and super obedient!) He was cheaper than a hamburger, I thought we made out pretty well. My Dad gave me a look when we told him and then he went and picked up Doc, what I named my lamb. I loved him and we were able to get him tame and he was the sweetest thing. And I was 14 when I bought this little guy. He died about 6 months later. And my Dad fought hard to keep him alive but he didn't make it.
I had my horse Gypsy. She is the most beautiful Arabian. And our personalities meshed perfectly. My Mom used to say you couldn't have found a better match between horse and owner. Both in a hurry and always on the go. And then she had a sweet baby Jinx. I was sad when I had to sell them both. But when you move where you don't have property for them it happens. I felt like I betrayed them. I still know where they are and occasionally go see them. Although it breaks my heart. They are mine in my heart still.
I loved our cows too. The first time any of them were butchered I happened to see the butcher shoot my steer. I lost it. And I gave the butcher a look of death. I was horrified. My steer was mellow and tame and walked right up to him not knowing his fate. And I refused to eat any of his meat. And then one day I learned I had been eating it, it was by far the best beef I had ever eaten.
And I had my cats I loved and adored growing up. And several dogs.
But now we have two wonderful dogs that my kids love as much as I did when I was little. This is Izzy. She is going to be 3 next month. She is fat and lazy and we love her. She will play fetch all day long. She is Little Man's dog. (Randy like to claim her to, but let's be real.) We love our Izzy. She is always happy to come in lay and her bed and sleep. Occasionally looking around to make sure we didn't completely abandon her, but just hang out and dream about food.
And then we have Sage. She is almost 4. She is our green eyed lab. And she is the mellowest dog I have ever owned. I was completely opposed to labs, and then we bought her for Randy. She quickly became my dog, she is loyal and protective. She doesn't care to fetch, unless she is in the water. She is happy to be a lap dog. Little Miss claims her, and loves her. (But so do I.)
I am grateful for our Heavenly Father creating animals for us to love. Grateful for the happiness and joy that they bring into our lives. And the joy they bring my children.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Just Another Manic Monday...
Monday's. Do you know what I do on Monday's? I get up I strip my bed and wash my sheets. I get the kids out the door to school, and then strip another bed and head to the gym. I come home strip the last bed and start putting everything back together. And then I wash the Munchkins clothes. And if time permits I get the towels done also. And then there is the running around vacuuming, straightening, and everything that needs to be tidied in my house. And when I get a minute I try to fit in a few errands. Today that would be to Lowe's to get wood and more spray paint. We will see if that happens. After the kids we have dinner, Family Home Evening, and then off to Little Man's Basketball. Monday's are busy. Monday's are overrated.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Too Fast..

In just a few weeks he is going to be seven. It seems like just yesterday he was so little. And in this picture he is eighteen months, and Little Miss is six days old. And a whopping five pounds.
Even since I took the picture of the munchkins, which is now almost two years old they have grown and changed so much. My Little Kids are becoming Big Kids. They are independent. They are silly, they are fun. They are reading. They are each others best friends. They are the most wonderful children a Mom could ask for. I just want them to stay little. To be this size again. To not be so darn grown up. How did I get so lucky to be their Mother?
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Saturday Gratitude
Today I am grateful for my husband. He willingly pitches in and helps get the house in order on Saturday. I am grateful for his help and the example he is. He went to the mall with the kids and I today. That is something I know he doesn't love to do, but he did it. He doesn't like the crowds or the shopping, or the fact that I made him try on clothes today. But he did it with a smile. I am grateful that he supports me and all of my hair brained ideas, and doesn't laugh at me when they don't work quite right. I am grateful to be married to my best friend, who is totally hot. I am grateful for a husband who is patient with me when I am running around taking pictures, editing, and doing everything just wild and crazy. I am grateful for my husband being a worthy Priesthood holder. He is the best father I know. He is my hero.

Friday, November 14, 2008
Memories
We went to Grandpa's funeral last month. The funeral was a month ago yesterday, and I have yet to share pictures of this event. Grandpa's funeral was wonderful, he lived a good life. And it was nice to have family together to celebrate the life of Grandpa.
All of the Grandsons were Pall Bearers.

Grandma and her four boys.
All of the family that was at the funeral. That is quite a crew, and we are missing at least 10 people.
Grandma with my kiddos. She is just wonderful! I love how kind and sweet she was with my children, especially on a day as hard as this. She took time to make them feel so special. They are still talking about Great Grandma!
Little Miss and Grandma.
Randy's cousin Tim, Grandma and Randy. They had wanted their other cousin Kevin with them, but he had already left. 
And the flowers at the grave. It was beautiful.
How blessed we are to have the plan of salvation. To know that families are forever. And to have families.
All of the Grandsons were Pall Bearers.








And the flowers at the grave. It was beautiful.

Thursday, November 13, 2008
Projects.. projects.. projects..
Somehow I decided to decorate my house a lot. I started with Little Miss and her bedroom. Which I need like two more things in it and it will be done and I will show you. I want it finished. And then my living room. I need to recover a chair, refinish a couple of items, and spray paint and it will be done-ish. I think I might need paint but that is still up in the air. And my kitchen is close to being a least a little done. And then there is Little Man's room. If you saw both of my children's room you would be sure that we simply don't care what his room looks like at all. We sold his big loft bed he has had for 5 years.
And we managed to sell it for what we paid for it. He now has a Queen size bed. And he needs bedding that is fun, and him. I am on a mission, but I am hoping that a sale comes quickly so I can buy him the bedding he loves. And get his room put together too.
I have several projects and not nearly enough time to get them done. I am hoping to have them done in the next two weeks. My parents come then and I want them done so they can see all of my hard work. We'll see. And I cannot wait to show everyone, but I like to have my projects finished before I show them. Be on the lookout.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Feeling Thankful
I love November. I love Thanksgiving. I like that we have a holiday to give Thanks. Today I am thankful that my children are out of school early. I get to have a little extra time to play with them. I get to eat lunch with them. And we can snuggle and have a nice afternoon. I am thankful I am their Mother.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Tuesday.. Tuesday..
It's cloudy. It's cold. It is Tuesday.
Today I went to the gym.
I volunteered in Little Man's classroom.
I helped a few friends.
I ate lots of candy.
I edited pictures.
I thought about recovering my chair.
I thought about spray painting my lamp.
I thought about sanding my table and dresser.
I giggled with Tiffany on the phone.
I played with Adobe Lightroom.
I cleaned out part of my van, mostly the candy wrappers.
I ate more candy.
I played with Little Miss before school.
I fixed her hair four times before school.
I made Little Man smile when I walked in his class.
I received the best hug from him for being there.
I giggled that people might think Randy really refereed a game. (But that was a good look alike!)
Today is a good day. I have done several things I wanted to.. and thought about doing more. And I might get a few more things done yet.
Happy Tuesday.
Today I went to the gym.
I volunteered in Little Man's classroom.
I helped a few friends.
I ate lots of candy.
I edited pictures.
I thought about recovering my chair.
I thought about spray painting my lamp.
I thought about sanding my table and dresser.
I giggled with Tiffany on the phone.
I played with Adobe Lightroom.
I cleaned out part of my van, mostly the candy wrappers.
I ate more candy.
I played with Little Miss before school.
I fixed her hair four times before school.
I made Little Man smile when I walked in his class.
I received the best hug from him for being there.
I giggled that people might think Randy really refereed a game. (But that was a good look alike!)
Today is a good day. I have done several things I wanted to.. and thought about doing more. And I might get a few more things done yet.
Happy Tuesday.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Go Pacers!!
Saturday night we went to watch the Pacers vs. the Nets. I was so excited!! It was my very first NBA game. And I have always loved the NBA, so this was just so awesome! We had seats on the 18th row and I was able to get some great pictures of the night! The Pacers won!! And we had the best time as a family.


This guy is who Little Miss called a Boy-Girl. He was a boy with girl hair, she was quite confused on this. But I was totally digging his hair in the picture.

Vince Carter who plays for the Nets has been around for a while. And these guys were close to us and yelled all the time Vince, Vince, VINCE FARTER! I was giggling.

And I wish this was a little clearer, but Roy Hibbert had an amazing dunk. I was is total awe. And I am happy I captured it. 

Then we had some entertainment. Boomer did an awesome dunk. And I have it in three stages.





And Randy got the hook up. He was a guest referee. He enjoyed being yelled at for part of the game. 
Jeff Foster shooting a free throw.


My kids wanted to know why the Pacemates forgot their pants. I agree.
And last but not least our family enjoying a night out together. We had so much fun and cannot wait to go again. And Little Man was completely enthralled and so excited to cheer on his favorite players. He now wants an NBA themed bedroom. We'll see what we can do about that.

Jeff Foster shooting a free throw.


My kids wanted to know why the Pacemates forgot their pants. I agree.

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