Merry Christmas to all!

This has been a busy season for us.  We are thinking of you and wish you a Very Merry Christmas!

Warm Hands, Warm Heart

While I was cooping this past week (Jacob's class), I looked out the window and saw the preschoolers playing during their recess.  I searched for Megan and found her playing with a ball by herself - she then started to wander around...again by herself.  (I notice the 'by herself' thing because I have memories of feeling like I was all alone on the playground when I was young.  I get a strange feeling in the pit of my stomach when I think of my children experiencing the same thing.  But...different story - different day...or not.)  After a little bit it looked as if some other children were coming to join her and then I saw her wander over to the adults who were out with them (1 teacher, 2 parents).  One of the coopers took her hands in both of hers and she stayed there for the rest of recess.  Later - while Jacob's class was having their recess, I went in to say 'hi' to Megan (during their snack time).  When I walked in several of her classmates saw me and told me how Megan needs to have gloves and how cold she was on the playground that day.  I - being the amazing mother that I am realized the gloves were still in the van.  It then dawned on me that she did have friends during recess and she did have someone looking out for her.  It was one of those moments I was very glad our children are part of a loving community when they go to school.  The mother that had taken care of her for the last part of recess didn't have to do what she did - but, she saw a child with cold hands and responded.  It is a community where others know what is going on and with concerned hearts try to do what they can to help - even her young classmates wanted her to be warm.  They made sure their friend's mother knew that children are supposed to have gloves during recess - everyday.:} How glad I am that the children know me - they recognized who I was and who I belonged to when I walked in the door.  They know me well enough to be comfortable letting me know how things should work.:} All preK kids know that moms and dads are in charge of the gloves, right?

It warms my heart to think that my children are cared for during the day rather I'm there or not.  Teachers are not able to do it all by themselves and I'm glad they have other adults to step in as needed. It takes a village and I'm glad my children are part of one.  I'm glad I get to be part of my children's school day and to participate in their lives by knowing their classmates and their classmates families.  My life is richer because I get to know/work with these kids and their families. It also helps me to know that my kids aren't much different than other children their age.  I'm grateful I get to have consistent contact with other children their age and know more about what my kids are experiencing and what to expect next.

I'm so very, very glad we were able to make it work for our family to still be part of such a great community even though we have moved. There are enough changes with a move - it's good to have some things stay the same.

Last Time

Tomorrow will be the last time I will wake up and make my bed here in this house.  I thought of that this morning as I was making the bed. Odd thought...It will also be the last time I take the kids to school in the morning and get to greet the day with a view of the valley.  The sky is always different and always beautiful.  It amazes me every time. What a wonderful way to start out the day!

Last night was the last time I got to spend time with some of the gals in our ward at a baby shower.  I enjoy doing that every chance I get.

Lately, I've been thinking about many of the 'last things' we've been doing.  I'm bummed we won't have time to go for another 'hike' before we leave.  We'll have to come back again.  We have loved having a bit of nature so close.

I'm guessing we've already had our 'last time on the playground' (we have 2 that we can walk to in less than two minutes) and our last nice weather BBQ with friends (months ago).

We'll miss being in a familiar place with familiar people doing familiar things.

The only thing that will be the same is family and the school.  It's strange to think that after so long it's actually our turn.  We've watched so many families come and go while we've been here that it just seemed like we would always be here - like it would never be us moving out.  This just might be the last blog post from where I'm sitting.  It's all so surreal.  We're not really moving, are we?

I promise I will convince myself that I'm excited - right now it's just not happening.  So much work just to have to step out of our comfort zone and start all over.  

I also promise that I really will post something fun one of these days. You know - something exciting or upbeat - maybe something about the kids or all the fun things we're doing.  I've been just a bit preoccupied with the house/moving topic.

Round Tuit

Life just isn't slowing down!!  We're moving this week!  My 'to do' list is about a mile long.  I don't really even have time to be writing this - 'someone' is supposed to be fixing dinner.  Here are some things I'm going to do when I get a 'round tuit'.  (No specific order.)

Reconnect with Layne - or at least have a conversation that has nothing to do with the house, finances, our schedule or our plan of attack for Christmas presents.

Teach/spend time with my kids - they have been neglected (a little - far from 'neglect' that's under the abuse umbrella - but still...they need more/I want to give more).

Participate more fully...the kids I teach at school, the teachers/other parents I work with, committees I serve on, family, neighbors, friends...all need me to be more fully present.

Clean in a 'keeping on top of it' kind of way (right now I feel like I'm deep cleaning 2 houses - it's too much - especially when I had nothing to do with the mess at one of them).

Spend some time doing something creative.

Update my journal, my kids' 'binders', my blog (I might even start another one.) and a bunch of other things I keep meaning to do...want to do...but, just keep putting off for seemingly more immediate matters.

Set up child care for Rachel - she'll need somewhere to go once we move (while I'm at the school 2 or 3 times a week).

Exercise again!

Be on time...this is a tough one for me - especially with kids in tow. But, it works so much better when I'm organized and life is a little less chaotic.

The list could go on...but, it's time to get back to the 'to do' list I mentioned earlier - boxes will not be packing themselves...oh, I think it's about dinner time too.  Hmm...maybe I'll do that first.

I Am Thankful For...

...vacuum attachments!  We were doing yard work and some cleaning yesterday at our new house.  I'm so very glad our vacuum has attachments.  They're simple - but, I'm happy to report there are no more cobwebs between the ceiling and curtain rods, no more dust on the baseboards and the list could go on.  I was just thinking about that one yesterday - since I literally spent hours vacuuming. 

I'm also thankful for the gospel, family, friends, freedom, a place to live, a body that functions well, food to eat, an income, a vehicle that runs smoothly, a school that's a good fit for our family, and an education.  Well, I guess that's the beginning of the list of generalities.  Too bad there's not enough time or space for all the specifics - I'm sure that would be fun to read!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

So Sad

When you move the people are always what you miss the most.  This time will be no different.  Jonny asked the other day if he could go to the local neighborhood school (as a way to continue to hang out with his friends in the neighborhood).  Jacob has also asked in family prayers to help us make new friends.  We will all miss being able to walk out the door and find a friend.  Luckily, we still live close enough to get together with friends.  It's also comforting to know that we all get to take our best friend with us.  Have I mentioned yet that I LOVE that my children are each other's best friends?  And, it's obviously in my best interest to take Layne along.:}

Mom of the Year!

Not me!  I realized today I could never have this title.  I don't really do play-doh - I know research says...It's just too much of a mess no matter what precautions we take.  So, it's rare to never around here. I'm also terrible about cooking with my kids - again...completely aware of the research.  I just forget - and sometimes I just have to face the hard truth that I'm just too lazy.  I could go on - but, I think the list of these particular two are incriminating enough on their own.:}

To my credit - I do have to say I'm in my kids' classes, I love to go on field trips and read to my kids (although, I did the last two more with the boys than I have with the girls - still working on that).

How are things coming with the house?

We have been asked this hundreds of times - at least it feels like it. We're glad so many of you are interested in what's going on. Or...maybe you're just making conversation - I don't know.:}  

We did the closing items yesterday - a couple of things happened where I really felt like we had 'people' that know what they're doing and want to make sure we actually do what's best for us.  I've felt that way all along.  It's good to know we have good people on our side. We've asked lots of questions - the more you know, the better...and we started out knowing nothing so they really have put up with lots of questions.  It would make me too nervous just to say 'ok' without really knowing what was going on.  Yikes.

So...like I said, we did our closing stuff yesterday (still have the hand cramp) - the escrow document was 70 pages.  The seller had an appointment in the afternoon and our realtor was going to call us about how things went.  We were all assuming they would go just fine - that is until it was close to 6:pm and we hadn't heard from said realtor yet.  The afternoon had been busy and I hadn't given any of it a second thought until the kids and I got back from school Something happened (maybe walking into our front room where we have an extra 8 dining room chairs waiting for a new home reminded me that we hadn't heard about said home yet) - anyway...called Layne to see if he'd heard anything (left message).  At this point I started to wonder...did something dramatic happen with the seller and we have no home?  Our realtor is usually pretty timely.  I thought he would have called already.  I rarely get nervous...this was a time when I started to worry a little - not panic - just concern.  An hour or two went by - still no call and I figured that we wouldn't hear anything until the next day because the work day was over - well, I forgot that realtors put in quite a few evening hours.  I was downstairs eating my dinner - when the phone rang.  I thought maybe it was the realtor - but, didn't really assume.  Layne was upstairs and answered the phone (after one ring).  I eventually finished my dinner and headed upstairs to finish getting ready for my class.  After a couple of minutes Layne casually mentioned that it was the realtor that had called.  There wasn't much emotion so I wasn't sure what to think (he was busy online - something about internet and phone services).  So I had to wait a little longer for him to say everything went through.  I was ready to do a little dance while he was just sitting there.  Boring!  Anyway...

WE HAVE A HOUSE!!!

Ducks in a Row

One thing we've noticed with the whole housing thing (buying one) is that you really have to have all your 'ducks in a row'.  So much depends on being able to pay all the extra fees/charges that go along with obtaining a house and you have to have a good chunk for earnest money.  It's great if you can make the process go as quickly as possible.  It's vital to have high credit scores and money for a down payment - at least 20% is ideal.  Banks have really tightened up what they will and will not do.  No loan, no house, no exceptions.

There are too many people that just can't do what it takes.  I think that's why there are so many people that find renting is the option they need to go with for the time being.  We have heard so many times that it's a buyers market - well, not really - at least for the average American who is being hit hard by the current economy and is just starting out (and/or has lots of debt).  It's not a sellers market either.  Obviously...no buyers, no sellers.  There are too many homes that just aren't selling and sellers have to lower their prices, etc...

Ute Tribe

Trivia for the day... The Ute tribe has 'no tradition or evidence of migration' (phrase I've seen in several resources) that put the tribe here (CO/UT/WY/NM) at a specific date.  The documents say that it must mean the tribe has been here for at least a thousand years (probably more).  Hmm...I wonder if I would get linched tomorrow if I told the 3rd/4th graders my theory.  It might just be mixing church and state considering I would have to bring the Book of Mormon into the explanation.  (We're learning about Indigenous Peoples in Jonny's class.)

Jacob's class?  Today we reviewed a bit about Newton and one of his theories before doing 'rockets' outside - wish I had brought my camera!  The rockets were made with water and 'Alka Seltzer' in a film canister for 'ancient cameras' (according to one of the students).  The kids had a great time with it.  (We also edited their 'space' research and they wrote a 'newspaper review' after watching a DVD of the show they put on.)

Sunday Drive

We went for a drive about a week and a half ago.  We drove over to the neighborhood where we're looking at a house.  I'm saying 'looking' at a house because it's all such an unsure process that we aren't even close to considering it being ours at this point - too many factors.  Although, we're hoping something tangible works out soon - we only have about a month.

Our drive consisted of showing the kids which house it was - the real owners were home, so we really just did a 'drive by'.  We looked around and found the closest park (about a block away), a couple of LDS chapels, the grocery store, gas station, library - there was even a skate park and golf course not too far away.  We also saw a couple of elementary schools and a junior high school - we're still going to have our children go to the same school they are attending now - but, it is good to have signs that we will have other children living nearby. (There are actually several classmates that live there already - so, we're happy about that.)

The house comes with a yard, a spot for a garden and a 2 car garage (unattached).  It also has the potential for hardwood floors and has a bathroom in the 'master' bedroom.  (No more surprises of children walking in while I'm getting out of the shower - maybe.)

We'll see what happens.  Cross your fingers for us.

Visual Check

This is why you MUST do a visual check

AFTER Daddy changes the diaper and

BEFORE you send the child out into the cold, cruel world. 

Seasons

It seems even the plants are confused around here.  Last week we had weather similar to summer.  This week we've had a rainy day, a snowy day and now a sunshine/blue sky type of day - all beautiful. (Although, today's sunny weather does not mean the temperature is in the 70s or even 60s range - it was 30 degrees this morning when I drove the boys to school.  It's a good thing we have a sliding door on one side of our van - the 'manual' one was frozen shut.)

Fall or Winter?

I look great!

I was combing Megan's hair after her bath.  This conversation happened out of the blue.

Megan:  I look great!  My mom told me I look great. 

Mom: You look great?  (Hoping to get more out of her.)

Megan: Yes, you told me I look great.

Mom: Well, you do look great.

Megan: Yes.  And you told me I can make good choices too.

Somehow, somewhere she has remembered something.  I'm glad. How great it would be to be able to tell yourself each day (like you meant it) that you look great and you are able to make right choices. What a great life.  It doesn't matter that most of the time she doesn't match - still learning all about that.  It also doesn't matter that her hair is 'done' when it's actually combed - no fancy stuff around here. (They have a habit of running when I get out the comb.)  How great that even though she knows she makes mistakes sometimes - she really is capable of making good choices.  What a great way to live your life.  I need to make that my mantra too - I look great and I can make good choices.

Mayor Jonny

I get to help with Social Studies right now in Jonny's class.  We've been learning about governments - Federal, State, County, City and School.  They did a mock congress that was kind of cool.  They also did a City Council and have just gone through the process of a class election in order to choose a representative for their class in the school wide government.  It's been entertaining to be there while all of this has taken place.

The City Council needed a mayor - so, the teacher decided to just go with 'pick sticks' (same idea as all of the students names being placed inside a hat and randomly choosing).  She drew names and the person had a chance to either accept or decline.  The first girl declined and then Jonny was picked.  He said, 'sure' without much hesitation (rare for him).  So, he was Mayor for a seemingly long drawn out City Council.  (The teacher wanted them to really appreciate what some of their representatives do without much in the way of compensation.)  The Council heard from different groups asking for permission and money for whatever cause was on the table.  Jonny got to say who spoke when, when the council members were to vote and which citizen from the audience got to ask their questions.  He did a pretty good job.  

This past time around they did class elections.  All of the candidates gave a speech and then the rest of the students asked questions.  Jonny chose not to run, but every time it was his turn to ask the candidates a question - the other kids would say..."and now presenting...Mayor Jonny Williams!" and they'd do some sort of fanfare.  I thought it was a bit humorous considering the whole 'City Council' deal was over...AND, Jonny says he has no friends in his class.  Whatever!

Blossoming as a Rose

Our roses have suffered at my hand this past summer. I haven't given them any attention - no water, pruning...not much of anything. I decided a week or two ago to actually water and prune the poor things - all in the same day even. It rained a couple of days later and just between the two chances at a little moisture, the roses really bloomed. We still don't have as many as we could have if I'd just kept up with it - but, at least we have some pretty flowers and a chance to 'smell the roses' when we're outside. We'll miss having them right outside our window. It's probable that by next summer someone else will get a chance to take care of them. Well, if they decide to keep them.:}

The King and the Castle

Megan just came up to me with a plastic egg (the kind we see a lot of during Easter time). It happened to have a CTR sticker on it. I asked her what it said and the response was - "bunny brought eggs". (I really was expecting a generic answer like...oh I don't know...the letters C - T - R.) I asked her to tell me more and there was an excited explanation about bringing eggs to the King in the Castle!!! She has all the cool jobs - I get to clean bathrooms and she gets to deliver fun items to a castle - complete with a King. The job that seems even harder right now is taking in all of the creative thoughts/actions my children dream up. I'm not sure I take all of it in well enough - there's so much. Childhood goes much too quickly!!

Still Not Pleased

I did a slideshow - obviously. My original intention was to do a bunch of pictures of our family, no music and have it at the side so it wasn't an actual post - just something that could be going while posts were being read. Well...it wouldn't let me do it. The one I just posted has less pictures and music because I had to actually post it!! (I didn't even get to choose MY music - at least not for free.) Life would be a bit easier if technology would do what I want it to. I guess life would be much easier if my husband and children always did what I wanted them to do too. I'll let you know if I ever get any of it figured out - technology or otherwise.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Pet Peeve #2

I just don't like it when I insert a graphic and all I end up with the next day is a question mark where the graphic used to be.  Anyone know what to do about that?  Do you just redo?  Delete?  Do it a different way? Try a different graphic?  

I decided to try just one more option on the music in a slideshow topic. I downloaded Smilebox.  They tell me I can use iPhoto and my very own iTunes.  We'll see if that's really true or not.  The other options/programs I've looked at didn't even give me the choice.  

Wish me luck!

Commercial for Water Based Markers

What's the fascination children have with markers and coloring on themselves?!?!?!  It's a good thing they like to get things 'clean' afterward!:}  (And even better?  They wipe/wash off so easily.)  Silly Girl!

Blogging Pet Peeve

I can't get the music I want!  I'd love to do another slideshow - I just haven't figured out how to do it with the music I want.  I can use my own photos.  Why can't I choose my own music?  Oh wait - I can, as long as it's on the list 'they' give me.  (Sounds a bit 'big brother'ish when I put it that way.):}  My point is - there has to be someone out there reading this and thinking, 'Duh, Teresa!'.  It has to be easy, right?  I guess I just haven't found the right place to click yet.  Will someone help me out?  It's my blog - I should be able to do what I want, right?  A huge thank you to whomever lets me know.  (If this is something you're wondering too...let me know and I'll post the info.)

What do you think?

Jacob took this picture a couple of weeks ago.  He loves to 'steal' the camera and take random photos.  This is one of the few where he actually had someone standing still for him.  How do you think he did?  We might need to get him his own camera one of these days.  

I was actually looking for a speed limit sign that said 100 miles an hour.  It feels like we're moving pretty quickly around here.  Lots to do! Kids growing up much too fast.  I couldn't find the 'sign' I was looking for - but, this one sure sounds good right about now.

Who does that?

Who goes for two days without checking email - and not even notice? That would be me!  Really, for someone who checks multiple times a day...how did I not realize I hadn't checked for a couple of days. Don't worry - it wasn't a complete 48 hours.:}  I think that's the only time I've ever done that.  I opened it up to reference an email and was told I had about 50 messages.  Hmm...I couldn't have gotten that many in the last hour or so, right?  I don't know if anyone else has ever done that - but, I did it today (actually, I guess it's been the last couple of days).  

On to the newsworthy part...WHO DOES THIS???  (This is what I missed while I was NOT checking my email - and I thought I was busy.)  Dave and Becca had their baby - darling little girl...on their couch!!  Apparently, the little gal came so quick that they called 911, were talked through it and then the 'professionals' came.  What woman wouldn't want to suddenly have a chance to deliver her child at home and what father wouldn't want to deliver that baby?!?!  (At our home - that would be a 'not I' for both of us.)  WOW!!  Way to go! We are so excited for you and to meet the little one!  Too bad we're not closer than the other side of the United States!  

The WizardCome Series

Ya...I hadn't heard of it either.  Apparently, it's the name of the series of books Jonny is writing.  Yes, the words Wizard and Come are supposed to all be one word.  The main character's name is Jonhy Melvin - because those are the two names Jonny knows how to spell. Ok, so...what about spelling Jonny the same way he does for himself? According to the author, "h's are easier".  I'm not sure why the 'n' comes first.  Hmm...and to think we've been spelling it different for all these years.  I'm still sticking with J-o-n-n-y for spelling my son's name.  That same son is allowed to spell the name of the main character in his series of books however he chooses.

Oh - The first volume (said author 'likes to call them volumes') is The Headless Man.  C'mon, you all want to read it, right?  And, he just told me several ideas for the 2nd book.  They're all about spells, magic, imagination and a young boy that comes out on top - no matter what happens to him (and a lot happens).  Can't wait for the next adventure!  Are you on the edge of your seat yet?  Yep, I knew you were!

Aw white

When Rachel says 'alright' - it comes out more like 'aw-white' (without a clear distinction on the 't').  She says it in her soft, innocent voice and it makes me smile every time.  I especially love when she says it right after I ask her to do something.  Sweet girl. 

I didn't fall in yet...

I asked Megan how she was doing this morning.  Her response was, "I'm OK actually, I didn't fall in yet."  She was sitting on the potty and apparently thought I was concerned about her safety.  I'm not sure what made her think of this particular answer - it's not like falling in the toilet has been an issue.  I love this age and the imagination that goes along with it!

"Luke Skywalker is the Republicans only hope."

Jacob sort of turned the phrase around.  The voice he used was great!  The actual phrase is a quote from Yoda in the Clone Wars trailer: "In Skywalker is the Republics only hope."  A little misquote.  It brought to mind the choice we have this time around for candidates.  It cracked me up!  Maybe 'Luke' really is our only hope.  How about a write-in?  Luke Skywalker for President!

School Has Begun!

We've made it through the first couple of weeks of school.  (Although, we still have yet to attend on a Monday.)  This year started out with my knowing that Jacob was going to be in a class where much was going to be familiar.  Jonny was going to be where he only knew one girl from his class last year (who 'chases boys and kisses them' - apparently, he's not quite into that yet - we'll just let that be the case for at least another decade or so.):}  Megan was going to be in a preK class that was completely new to her.  I think I was the most worried about Jonny - partly because he was the most nervous.  Jacob felt comfortable and Megan has wanted to go to school for a couple of years now.

I made it through cooping in both of the boys classes.  I'm glad I get to be in each class with both parents I know and those that I will get to know.  It's been enjoyable for me to reconnect with friends I haven't seen all summer...and meet new people all at the same time.

We love our school.  I'm glad we get another year.

When my camera will actually let me download pictures, I might add a couple.  Technology!  It's always a love/hate thing for me.  When it works - I love it...when it doesn't...well, it's not so fun.

Three and a Half Minutes

The boys and I just sorted the dirty laundry for the week.  It took us 3 1/2 minutes.  I was a bit surprised - and truthfully a little proud of us.  So - just had to share.  Amazing how much can happen when you're timing yourself.  (I let them know they only had 5 minutes of my help and then they were on their own to finish the rest of it tomorrow morning.)

Part Time Job

It's that time again.  School starts tomorrow.  We went to Oregon for a week in July (which I still need to post) and ever since we got back I have digressed.  I went from not doing a whole lot - to being just plain lazy.   The children have been a little bored.  Somehow, I have been trying to grasp at the very end of summer - hoping to get in as much relaxation as possible.

I think I have tried to gear myself up for a new school year.  I know I will not be sitting down much once that first school bell rings.  Most parents might think the school year means that someone else will have their children for the day and they will have a bit of a break from teaching/entertaining.  That's not the case at our house.  We get to enjoy the school year together.  I get to coop in their classes once a week, go to monthly parent meetings (for a total of 3 a month), work on a committee, provide transportation, volunteer to drive for field trips or sports, provide snack for each class about once a month (PreK, twice a month), coordinate/do babysitting trades to cover times I'm cooping in the classroom, figure out what my kids need to be working on at home so they can get some personally tailored 'learning time'...that's all that comes to mind off the top of my head.  Oh - Layne also helps out by staying home with the kids while I have evening meetings.

When the kids start the school year - we have the usual stuff with them - and I get to feel like I'm starting a part time job.  All of this is obviously on top of what normally gets done around here.  It's a busy time.

This program is a great fit for our family.  It's worth it to us to make this work.  I could write quite a bit more about all of the reasons it works for us - but, I'm proud of you for reading this far - so, I won't bore you with all of that right now.

You know your husband helps a lot when...

You take your daughter to the restroom at church and she excitedly exclaims, "We get to go in the girls one!".

He goes to pass the Sacrament in church and your daughters are quite vocal about missing their dad (because he's the one they usually sit with during Sacrament Meeting).

Your children are talking with their friends and they make comments like, "Ya, I don't know what my dad's making us for dinner tonight."  Or..."We had dad's 'Saturday' breakfast this morning.".  (Thus claiming the 'Chef Daddy' title.)

You bring the diapers and your husband is the one that makes the change when the child indicates it's time.

It's rare for you to do the washer/dryer part of the laundry cycle.

You haven't mopped a floor for over a decade.

The only time you remember to take out the trash is when he's out of town.

You don't have to worry about your vehicle - maintenance, registration or otherwise.

Your sons are active in scouting and you don't have much to do with it.

Your daughters will occasionally let him do their hair (when they will 'never' let their mom do it).

He comes home from a busy day just to see his kids and help with his wife's sanity (and with the evening routine) before heading back to campus.

If there's something that's not getting done - he just takes over.

I completely realize that it sounds like I don't do anything -but, really I do.  Or, at least I like to tell myself that.  Thanks Layne for helping out around here!!

How do I love my kids?

Let me count the ways...

1 roll of paper towels

1 roll of toilet paper

2 girls, 3 'accidents' (2, #1; 1, #2)

3 yogurt containers, 2 packages of cream cheese (on the stairs)

1 son upset about going to 'free lunch'

1 son mad about hearing 'no' to going outside when job/learning time wasn't done yet

1 set of sponge animals (16 in package?)

3 large puddles of water (result of sponge animals)

1 very wet bath towel, 1 random sock (self-cleaning above mentioned water)

1 pair of P.J.s that never got put away

2 girls that never got their hair combed

1 pair of pants that never got put back on (again, previously mentioned water)

60 puzzle pieces spread out over the floor (2 different puzzles)

30 books randomly 'organized' around the house

3 couch cushions returned to proper place (3 times)

2 pillows returned multiple times

3 baskets full of clean laundry strewn on the stairs

2 tinfoil dinner that left cut veggies on the floor and counter

2 pudding pies leaving signs of boys tasting their work around their mouths

3 boxes of pudding mix leaving behind some of the powdery substance on the counters/stove

1/2 package of wipes strewn around the house (because girls wanted to 'clean')

1 BBQ that yielded 6 sets of smoky clothes

1 floor that never got vacuumed

1 kitchen sink that almost got cleaned out

We had other things going on around our house yesterday too.  I just wanted to share why every time I turned around - there seemed to be something to clean up (or, someone who needed help cleaning up their attitude).

We also had 4 sets of songs, hugs, kisses, and 'I love you' at the end of the day.

So...how was your day?

Happy Birthday!!

There are several cool people I know that have birthdays in August.  OK...so I know there are others - but, I'm only doing some of the people I'm related to in this post.  (Sorry friends.)  I just started randomly looking through and choosing pictures and realized I didn't really have an order - until I noticed that there is an order.  I have them listed by age - although, I'm not going to tell you which end you would need to start at for youngest or oldest.  Anyway, we grew up saying something nice about the bday person when it was their day.  So, just pretend you're at the proverbial dinner table (and you're eating whatever the bday person chose).

Melissa is amazing!  This year I'm choosing communication.  There are a couple of different reasons.  She and Gary communicate so well with each other that they are an impressive team.  She communicates well with her children - anyone that can chat/laugh with her teenage daughters and still maintain the parent/child relationship must being doing something right in the area of communication.  I also know that Melissa seems to be at ease talking with others and helping them to feel good about themselves (and thus, feel good about being around her).  She is articulate and genuine all at the same time - while getting necessary facts correct when needed.

I love this picture of Mike - to me it shows that he is a man of action - in two ways.  It speaks of his ever 'ready for an adventure' side.  Although, he is standing still and has a child on his back - so, he's probably not feeling very adventurous.  But, you do have to know that we were at a mine and I think they went through together.  Mike would have to go for the challenge.  For this reason (the challenge) I think there are many times we've wondered about the miracles that have happened for him to still be alive.  I think there have been sleepless nights for both mom and his current keeper, Sarah (who deserves to be part of the picture - but, I couldn't find any of the two of you together - pathetic of me, really).  We all love that Mike is fun loving and is the 'favorite' adventure keeper in the family.  (Not sure anyone else is willing to put their life on the line for the title - had to throw in 'favorite' somewhere.)  This picture instantly reminds me of his love for others and his endless willingness and excitement for giving.  If you know Mike, the kid on his back, or both - you know that he's not one of Mike's sons.  (We're excited to meet #3, by the way!)  I'm guessing Mike just did it - no questions - just a good idea and some action.

Dave - what to say about Dave...other than we love Dave - always have, always will.  We are all so very glad that we convinced him that he really did need to marry Becca - because well...it really is OK to marry your best friend - besides the fact that we all know she's fabulous.  (Ok, so the rest of us can't really take any credit.)  Dave has a knack for doing what is right - no matter what.  I've noticed that if he feels like it's the right thing to do - he'll do it.  If there's any doubt - it'll either wait until he feels right about it (we're glad you waited around for that moment, Becca) or he won't do it at all.  There is no question about his ability and willingness to follow the Spirit in an effort to be obedient.  Yes, we love Dave and his example of righteous living.

Happy Birthday to each of you!!  I love you - thanks for being your own brand of unique.  A big 'shout out' for bdays coming up - the ever fun loving Allison and the terrifically talented Seth!  (Sorry, no photos - I took so many at the reunion - you'd think there was something.  But, no - very lame!)

Got Ice Cream?

I know the ad for milk is just the upper lip.  So, I could have just ended here...

but, this is so much better.

What are the odds?

In a previous post I mentioned Layne was no longer a student and will now be working as a postdoc.  Yesterday was his first day and he seems to have survived just fine.  Not sure what the odds are - but, he is working for a professor who will be new to the "U".  This professor is not new to the field.  He is well known, respected and has lots of connections.  He also just happens to have a project that Layne is interested in working on - and, that will be different than what he has been doing.  (He's very much ready for a change.)  What are the odds?  Another big plus is that he will be getting paid on the higher end of what the professor is allowed to pay him - with benefits, the amount is exceeded.  So, we feel like he's being very generous.  (Although, we're still below poverty level.)  Again, what are the odds?  A couple of reasons we decided to go with this route is so that Layne will have a chance to publish more and will come out with even more opportunities in the end.  The question - What are the odds? - has come to my mind several times as we have looked at all of our options (Layne has had other offers and somehow this one just fit the best for our family.).  What are the odds that a professor just happens to come and offer Layne what he needs just as he is finishing?  We thought the finishing part was going to happen for years now (really...that is NOT an exaggeration), and so it seems that the timing is just right even though we thought it would originally be different.

It will be much different than working with the professor he has been working with for the past eight (yes, that would be 8) years.  He will get paid more...the grants will be more secure because of the other professors tenure.  Speaking of tenure...the professor Layne worked with for his PhD is just a year or two older than Layne and started as a professor the same time Layne started his graduate work.  They've been learning together and there are times I haven't appreciated that Layne has been this guys guinea pig (or maybe his 'trial and error' child).  (Although, it has been great for racquetball and outdoor toy hand-me-downs.)  I'm glad he'll be working with someone who has some experience in the field and his profession. 

One last topic - we really thought the odds of our family staying in Utah was slim to none considering the lack of Biotech firms in the area.  We have prayed to know what was best for our family.  I think someone is aware of our children's needs and our need as parents to fill them.  We have a school that is a perfect fit for our family and resources around us that have benefited our children greatly.  We're grateful we'll be able to continue with those.  As a mother, I'm also glad we get to be in a place where there are so many things to do with children that are inexpensive or free (which is our price range)  - the odds of finding a place with so much to do with the kids would be rare.  (They would be stuck with me for entertainment and enrichment activities - yikes!)

Now we just need to work on the odds of where we're going to live - not many inexpensive options for a family of 6.

Three Hours?!?!?!

We went to the Utah State Capital Building this past Saturday.  They had the Declaration of Independence there for the public to view.  I thought there might be a line.  But, when we got there, we were told it was about a THREE HOUR WAIT!  Hmm...think we'll pass.  Don't get me wrong..we consider ourselves patriotic citizens.  Reality is...we also consider ourselves a family of six with other things to do than wait in line for three hours.  I didn't want to imagine our family waiting with children who went knowing they just wanted to be somewhere else - like home eating lunch.

Doesn't look too crowded as we drive up, right?

Random family that decided to wait - no young children.  Hmm...

We did get a family photo by a copy of the document.

We'll have to go back some other time when it's not so crowded so we can check out the architecture and images.

Girls are more work!!

We got our pictures taken yesterday.  I actually made sure the kids had hair cuts (OK, so I asked Layne if he would do it) and made sure to have all the matching clothes laid out and ready to go.  I totally get that in most households this would be a given.  Our family?  Not so much.  I was feeling pretty good about the whole scenario...until we woke up late.  Who does that?  Apparently us!  We quickly got ready and headed out the door.  While we were getting ready I was reminded once again that girls are more work than boys when it comes to getting ready.  The boys just needed to get dressed.  Their personal hygiene consisted of brushing their teeth and making sure there were no signs of breakfast on their faces.  The girls?  The same applies...plus...you have to do their hair and deal with what to do about the band-aid that is showing on the knee because their skirt doesn't cover it...and then we were just so glad that after a bit of a struggle Megan decided to cooperate and wear what was included in 'the plan'...well, except for the socks.  She even chose something to bring so she could change as soon as she was done.  Somehow boys clothes are more straightforward - you pull on some pants and throw on a shirt.  It's not that hard.  (They did complain about the fact that they had to wear 'Sunday clothes' on a Saturday - but, that's a whole different post.)  Girls clothes are somehow more detailed - there seems to be more to think about when matching clothes and styles.  (The fact that most of their clothes are hand-me-downs forces us to get a bit more creative.)  If I were good at it - it might not be that big of a deal.  But, I'm not an expert and most of the time I don't pay enough attention to those things.  Throw in the fact that my daughters are having a really good day when we get to comb their hair all in one sitting...and when they get themselves dressed, it's just coincidence that the outfit matches.  Phew!  It was a rough few minutes at our house.  Hmm...can't wait until they start wearing make-up and actually care about how their hair is done and rather they match or not and what styles their friends are wearing.  It's only going to get more dramatic.  We're going to have to brace ourselves!

Jonny was baptized August 2nd!!

The big smile says it all!

We are proud of him and his decision.  We had a great day.  It was nice to have family and friends around to support him.  Thanks to any and all who helped and were able to come.

One Month Later

We have a new van!!  Exactly one month to the date (June 18, July 18) - we purchased a new van.  As the story usually goes - we had almost paid for our other one.  But, we love this one and we're glad we have it.

The kids think it's great too!

Seats adjust however we want - kinda like musical chairs.

Still not sure about the color - we're getting used to it.

I love being able to just put the groceries in - so nice to have space in the back.

As usual, Layne did his research and found a great deal.

Where's Dad?

Megan just asked me where her Dad was.  The kids do this often because they like to have him around.  I'm used to answering, "He's at his school.".  I can't really do that anymore.  My husband is no longer a student.  I have to keep reminding myself of that fact.  It hasn't sunk in yet.  He's been a student since the day we met.  (Yes - it's been awhile.) So, from now on I need to answer, "Daddy's at work.".  

Here's a picture of him when he first started hanging out in the 'dungeon'.  It has no windows!   I'm glad I'm not the one that has gone there on a regular basis for the past 8 years.  He's a trooper!  Yes, his postdoc is in the same building.  (I don't know why he can't work in the one closest to us with all the windows - it is, after all, the official place for BioEngineering students to work.)

Where to start?

Since I wrote last - we've had lots going on.  Here are some things I could write about:

Our family vacation

Our family visiting us here

A family (and friend) baptism

Last night's FHE

Our family outing today

Stuff the kids have said/done

Layne's employment saga

Summer happenings

People moving

Our move???

the list could go on and on...and on and on...

Where to start?  Hmm...

Any requests?

Different But Just The Same

What's different?  Layne is done!!!  He handed in the final draft of his dissertation on Monday.  He had already defended and 'walked' - it was just a matter of editing.  That's quite the process!  It seems there are several individuals/committees that need to proof and sign off on it before it's official.  Each time Layne handed it over he needed to wait until they finished and then edit before passing it along.  It's taken a couple of months.  It's been 2 1/2 months since he 'walked'.  Now there's just the employment process - it also seems to be a long one.  

Before

During

After

We're proud of you Layne!

The same?  Layne doesn't really feel done because he still goes to the same lab to do the same research to come home to the same family living in the same student housing.  I think he's ready for a change - except for the family part.  I think he's OK with being 'stuck' with us.

Jog Your Memory

I saw this on Brooke's blog and thought to try it.  It's one I haven't seen before.  (I tried to do a link to the blog - but, I haven't learned how to do that yet.  The one thing I tried, didn't work.  The kids need help - I'll try later.  Thanks for your patience.  You're welcome to share a 'how-to' tip.)

Here is a fun little game...Leave a comment on my blog of a memory that you and I have had together. It doesn't matter if you've known me for a short time, or a long time, anything you remember! Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you...

BTW - you do not need to have a blog to leave a comment!  You don't even need to commit to putting this on your blog if you have one - you can just write a memory anyway.

Week in Review - Take Two (First Week of July)

So far behind...

There are several things I have been thinking to blog about in the last couple of weeks.  I feel like I'm just so far behind.  I plan on doing a slideshow for a week review.  But, it's from 2 weeks ago!  I feel like I just haven't had the time to put it together.  It shouldn't be that hard, right?  I have spent time figuring out which pictures I want to use.  It'll just be a matter of putting it together.  

I feel like I'm behind in my summer too.  I was going to do so many cool things with the kids and get a bunch of stuff done.  Apparently, I do not thrive well without pressure.  This summer has been a very relaxed one.  Who knows?  Maybe it's what we needed.

Week in Review

Here are just a few of the things we did last week.  We went to the zoo on Monday.  It was the last day of our membership - so, we did the things that mom has been to cheap to do each time.  We didn't see many animals, but we had a good time.  We went on the carousel, rode the train and purchased a gift store item for each kid (the boys brought their own $, the girls? around 2.50 total).  I also thought it was fun to see some of the items that have been there for years that have been moved around the zoo as changes have been made.  After the zoo we went to get lunch at the park and were lucky enough to meet some friends.  On Tuesday, we started out with the girls' music class, went to the park and then had lunch.  Later that evening we went to a Concert in the Park.  Wednesday brought a trip to the Fine Arts museum and a BBQ with friends to start off the holiday week-end (most were heading out of town).  Thursday we went to lunch in the park and then headed to the Drive In that evening to see Wall-E.  Friday brought a beautiful hike, a delicious BBQ and splendid fireworks (that only the 'boys' saw).  Saturday we went to Thanksgiving Point and then grabbed some dinner on the way home.

Alma 7:14

We were reading scriptures the other night and it was Jonny's turn to read this one.  He was part way through the verse and exclaimed, "I'm going to do this!".  He read a couple of more words and all of the sudden, "I'm so excited!".  We love that he's excited about something so important.

Wally and the Bead

Yes, you read that right.  Last night we went to the drive-in to see Wall-E.  Megan had a conversation with her dad earlier in the week about it.  Layne ended up mentioning something about Wally and the Beav - memories from a TV show of days gone past.  (I don't know what the connection is either.)  Apparently, it stuck with Megan - for the rest of the week she referred to the movie Wall-E as Wally and the Bead.  She had me questioning myself a couple of times.  Is there something about the title of this movie that I'm not aware of or is she just making something up?  (She is 4 - imagination is always a possibility.)  On the way to the movie, there were several times she enthusiastically stated, 'Wally and the Bead!'.  It was completely random and humorous all at the same time.  We love our Megan!  We count her as one of multiple entertainers in our family.

Happy 4th!

Happy 4th!  One of the things we did today was go on a hike.  Here are some photos from the event.

We had to watch out for hanging inch worms.

We loved the beauty around us - 

and had a great time.

Jacob usually led the way.

Rachel was just along for the ride.

The kids threw rocks into the water.  This is Jonny in action.

Megan showing off the rock she found.

Jacob keeping hydrated and thinking his shirt is cool.

Megan carefully taking some 'fluff fluff' (dandelion head) to show Daddy.

Jonny being funny - 'Look, a plane!'

Rachel insisted she walk towards the end.  She did a great job!  She even found a couple of her own rocks.

We had a wonderful day and hope yours was just as great!