get your game on

It's Luke's birthday week, and when it's your birthday in our house, you are the ruler of the world... at least for 7 days. Luke has been in charge of what we eat for lunch and what we do for homeschool. Today he wanted to have a GAME day. So we stayed home and played our brains out. Literally...

It actually started out quite fun. I love that my boys are excited to play, yet old enough to understand the rules (and have grown out of the stage where I have to let them win.) That's right, I am playing by the rules and they have to win fair and square! You better bring it!!

We played the majority of them when Zack was down for his nap.. and when he woke up, we tried including him. He would pick up a game piece and move it while saying, "My turn! One, two, tree, five, five." It was cute at first, but after a while, Ben and Luke got frustrated with him, and Zack eventually ended up crying and throwing the gameboard. Actually, all three of them were crying by the end of the night. I finally had to call it quits when Luke yelled, "I am going to KILL Zack!!" So much for a fun day. They all went to bed without any dessert.. and I explained [I mean YELLED] that we won't be playing another game for at least a week!

Even though it turned out to be a rough day, I can't help but smile every time I think of the boys saying, "I think it's Professor Plum with the revolver in the Con-STRICTA-vory."

Inspired by Dan

Ever since seeing this movie with Aaron, we've been a little obsessed with guitar music. Aaron is learning to play and I have been listening to it nonstop. I love the Dan in Real Life soundtrack.. and sometimes even listen to it to workout.. which is not usually my style.

Is there anyone out there who doesn't like this movie?? From what I have read online, it has poor reviews, but I LOVED it. My favorite movies are the kind that me laugh, cry and be grateful for all my blessings. check, check, check.. And who doesn't love to see the softer side of Micheal Scott?

Anyway, this playlist below is my top 20 guitar faves. They are currently my 'most played' songs on my ipod. The Sondre Lerche songs are from the Dan in Real Life soundtrack, but my two favorite songs from the CD aren't on the list = Let My Love Open the Door and the "Ruthie Pig Face" song.. If you don't know what I am talking about, go and see the movie.

Any good movies out there playing right now? We've seen I am Legend and I've had nightmares ever since.. but it was good. We wanted to go and see Juno but I've heard from several people that it's dirty.. so, we're looking for another option. Any suggestions?

i love this girl

Karlin came to Vegas for a short convention and I was lucky enough to meet up with her (and her aunt) for dinner. We were both going on only a few hours of sleep, but it was so much fun. Seriously, it's like therapy for me to be with her. They practically had to kick us out of the restaurant last night. Over the years we have spent countless [literally hundreds] of hours talking, laughing and crying. We can't even call each other anymore because we won't hang up the phone (and end up neglecting our children.) Anyway, if I haven't already told you about her.. let me just say that she is one of the most loving, caring, down to earth girls on the planet. She's had to deal with a LOT in her short 27 years. She and her husband have two adorable kids and are currently raising her 5 siblings since her mother died of cancer three years ago.. and let me just say they are doing an incredible job. She's so busy with basketball games, scout camps, planning a wedding, and two little toddlers! What an example she is (and has always been) for me. I truly love her and only want the best for her and her darling family. We always joke about finding husbands that have the qualities that we love in each other.. and it's so true because she (and Aaron) have such a capacity to love and care for other people. And of course, her husband is like the coolest person in the world.. hello... doesn't it all make sense? What makes last night so special is that the minute Aaron heard that she was in town, he left his office.. knowing how important (and needed) it was for me to go and spend time with her. I really appreciate him for knowing me so well..

Anyway, I feel so lucky to have her friendship in my life.. is she not the cutest thing ever??

best buds

Several weeks ago, we had a major bedroom renovation. Ben and Luke have never had separate rooms and we finally split them up! Although I love having them in the same room, I think it's caused Luke to become lazy. Ben is a neat freak (like his daddy) and won't let a single toy be out of place. So, at the end of the day, if their room was the least bit untidy, Ben would get busy putting away Luke's mess, whether it be toys, clothes or whatever. We thought it would be a good idea to give Ben a break and teach Luke the importance of cleaning up after himself.. it was a good idea, in the beginning.

We spent all day dividing their clothes and toys and both seemed excited about their very own rooms. However, it's been a month and ask me how many nights they have slept in their bedrooms alone? ZERO. Every night while brushing their teeth, the same question is asked: "Do you want to have a sleepover?" The other one always responds positively, and then they debate which room would be the best to sleep in. Yesterday, we decided to move them back together because it's easier having everything in one spot. "The separation" didn't seem to relieve Ben of the extra responsibilities or allow Luke to develop any cleaning skills. Not only did Ben keep his own room spotless, but after he finished, he went into Luke's room and to do the cleaning routine. I tried to stop it (even punishing Ben if he cleans too much) but it doesn't seem to make much of a difference. We are working on another solution....

Until then, we are grateful for their friendship and love for each other. They are such different little boys, but I believe that's exactly why they have always gotten along. Ben helps Luke SO much.. not just by doing his chores, but he's a great example in every way. And Luke is the best little buddy any brother could ask for. He's so easy going and SO much fun. Ben laughs at him all day and always wants him around. I love how well they get along and hope it continues until they are old and gray.

I went through my pictures to find a good shot for this post... and I was literally brought to tears. Not only do I have at least a HUNDRED pictures of the two of them, but in almost every pose, their arms are around each other or they are holding hands. I decided to do a collage because there were just too many.. (and this is only half of them!!) I got really emotional looking through these pictures because I am so grateful for their friendship.

Those early days of sleepless nights and two in diapers has totally paid off!!

thankful for a Prophet

Ironically, Ben asked us this morning what happens when the prophet dies. Aaron quickly explained the order of succession, but had no idea we would have a more serious discussion before bed on this subject. Although I am glad to know that he passed peacefully and is reunited with his sweetheart, I feel a deep sadness that he is no longer here. I love him dearly and I am truly grateful for the influence he has had on my life.

These past 12 years during his service as Prophet have been HUGE decision making years in my life.. [High school, going to college, marriage, having children, getting through law school, starting a career, just to name a few..] President Hinckley has been MY prophet, and I am thankful for his inspired guidance. Out of all the experiences I went through these past few years, I believe that his challenge to read the Book of Mormon is the one that has had the most impact on my testimony and my life. When the challenge came, I felt rightfully excluded from those he challenged. I was a law school widow with two young children and a baby on the way. My pregnancy with Zack was a difficult one and for some reason, I felt as though I was an exception to the rule. After reading his promise of the blessings that would come into our lives by taking on the challenge, I began reading.. and I didn't stop. My love for the Book of Mormon grew and I knew without a doubt that the feeling in our home changed. It was exactly what I needed at that time in my life, and I was amazed at how quickly I finished, especially when I had so much on my plate. It was such a testimony-building experience for me, as I know it was for so many others who took the challenge. In honor of the Prophet, our family decided last night that we would read the Book of Mormon from cover to cover this year.. something we haven't done with our children.

This weekend was stake conference for us.. and Aaron and I were able to attend the adult session on Saturday night. Although it's not really exciting to spend a date night attending a church meeting, we decided to go (and deduct the babysitting fees out of our tithing funds.) It was a wonderful meeting and I came home with such a desire to protect our family from that which can quietly destroy our children and/or our marriage. While sitting there with my husband, I had a picture in my mind of someone (or something) coming inside our home and attacking us. I wanted so badly to guard my children from this evil, but I felt hopeless because I had not prepared and had nothing for protection. My children are so young and would be defenseless if something were to happen to them.. and it's my responsibility to make our home as safe and secure as possible. I am too casual about what I invite in.. through the television and internet. And even though some of these things aren't necessarily "bad" they are occupying our time and keeping us from doing what is essential. I cannot sit back and let it happen anymore! For family home evening this week, we are going to talk about how we can put on the armor of God and build our own fort of safety... even if it's just one stone at a time. I may not be able to change what is going on in the world, but I am in control of our home. I need to simplify my life so I can do the things that are most important for me and my little family!

Any suggestions on how you've been able to improve the spirit of your home? How about ideas of making scripture reading more entertaining for the little ones? We've read the picture books before (which are awesome) but we are doing 'the real thing' now and I know it's not going to be easy....

picture copyrighted by Boyd Ivey Photography

CTR 7 Forever!!

This afternoon, we invited six 6 year olds over for a "getting to know you" primary party. It was a LOT of fun. Aaron is so perfect for this age.. maybe because he's a little immature himself-- but he had ALL of us laughing. We had pizza and decorated colorful cupcakes. We played the penny/flour game, 'the dancing hair game', and I was lucky enough to paint nails with the girls. 'The danciing hair game' is a little something Aaron learned from his dad. He got a plate and put water on it. Then he had each of the kids pull out one of their own hairs and put it on the plate. He told them that he was magic and was going to make the hairs dance, but they had to get really, really close to see. As their faces surrounded the plate, Aaron slapped his hand down in the water and splashed them. All of the kids thought it was hilarious, except for one cute little guy.. who started hyperventilating. I was trying not to laugh as he freaked out and yelled, "I CAN'T BREATHE! I CAN'T SEE ANYTHING!! HELP!" Aaron had to escort him to the bathroom to dry off and calm him down. I totally cracked up at the whole situation and I felt so bad. But we had a good laugh with his mom when she came to pick him up. Apparently he freaks out in the bathtub if he gets a drop of water in his eyes.. Poor little guy. Other than the water tragedy, it was a good time. Ben had fun showing off his bedroom and toys to his classmates.. six year olds are such a fun age. We don't miss the nursery so much anymore.

Filmakers in the making

I went to put a load of laundry in the washer and got scolded [by my boys] for turning on the lights. I found them in the hallway with all sorts of props...stools, pillows, lots of toys and a flashlight... They were making their own dinosaur movie. Of course, they didn't have anyone filming it, so I decided to grab the camera.

This is just one of their two minutes films... we made several (all starring different dinos.) They've spent the morning watching them over and over on the computer. If you're REALLY bored (or interested in their film making skilz) their stegosaurus clip is on our video blog. I definitely think they need some instruction from their uncle Brett on how to make a "cool" movie..

kid conversation keepers

Today has just been one of those amusing days.. where the kids were constantly saying things that made me smile. These are ALL from today, believe it or not.

Ben: Luke, I have a great idea. If you want to be a paleontologist like me, then we should totally work at the same museum!

Luke: That IS a great idea, Benny!
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Ben: I have a joke for you, Mom.

Me: Let's hear it.

Ben: What is tall, nice and says "ouch?"

Me: OUCH! (after Ben pinched me hard on the arm.)

Ben: See I told you!
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While I was cooking dinner, all three boys were running around in circles with blankets on their heads.. (whatever entertains) from under the blankets, I hear--

Ben: Isn't this a really fun game?

Luke: This is the funnest game I've ever played. Well, it's not really. But it's the funnest game you've ever made up!

Then a few minutes later... still with blankets on their heads.

Luke: Stop running so fast. When I run that fast, my pants fall down.

Ben: That's not really my problem, is it?

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During dinner---

Ben: So Dad, how was your day at work? (this has become a regular question.. and Ben always acts SO interested..)

Dad: It was pretty good.

Ben: Did you bring home some money?

Dad: um.. what do you want to buy?

Ben: Some vibrating chairs. you know, like the kind we see at the mall.

Me: Why do you want a vibrating chair?

Ben: So I can sit in it. Do you guys know what vibrating means?

Dad: Yes.. we know what that means. Would you rather buy a vibrating chair or save money for a new house?

Ben: I guess a new house.

Luke: I would rather have the chairs.

And a minute later.. still eating dinner..

Luke: Does anyone feel like moving to Maine?

Ben: How about Florida?

Luke: Yeah! That would be cool! Then I could ride on an alligator.

Ben: Luke, you are not going to be able to ride on an alligator until AFTER Jesus comes! (as if he has told him SO many times already.)

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And little Zack's quote of the day: "OH MY GOSS!" said at least 30 times already.
We've got to break him of this one. "That's AWESOME!" is much more pleasant.

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Luke: Mom, which sound is annoying-er.

Me: I'd rather not have this conversation. Go ask Daddy.

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Seriously, it's only 8 pm and I am wiped out!! Some days are just more exhausting (and more entertaining) than others. But these are the days... I am telling you! Why would any mother want to be working when she could be at home listening to this?

I take it back...

Everything I said about loving this child and his "stage" in life is NOT true anymore.

I left this spaghetti face alone for 30 seconds...
1/2 of a minute, I swear!

and by the look on his face, I'm sure he KNEW that dry erase markers are just as hard to get off the wall as permanent.

Today I am really grateful for crayon remover, mr. clean magic erasers and Sherwin Williams (who keeps record of what builders use which paints..) Luckily, we were able to buy the exact color of white... for whenever mr. Destructo decides to create another masterpiece.

FLOAM

My kids have been wanting to play with floam forever and I finally caved in. I love the final products because they totally reflect my boys' personalities. Ben stresses about anything creative. He always does a good job, but he wants it symmetrical, orderly, and clean. He tried to build Bumble Bee from Transformers.

Luke on the other hand, has a blast and makes a mess... and always gives it a funny name. This creative, colorful blob is supposed to be a blood sucking insect. He named it Underbug cause it gets under your skin.

holy cow--

We went to the dairy "farm" today with a few friends from the neighborhood. I dressed the kids warm because for some odd reason, I figured we were going to an outside farm to watch cows being milked. I was so wrong. The only cows we saw were the plastic ones outside the factory and the stuffed talking cow "Calsie" who narrated part of the tour. I wasn't disappointed because it didn't smell like cows, and my kids were happy because we got ice cream at the end of our expedition.

And Val... guess what ice cream they served so appropriately on MLK day.. yep, cookies and cream. perfect. we might have to do without the traditional oreo shake party tonight.

help! stuck!

My little guy insists he's older than he is. Today, he was adamant about putting on his own pants, but he put both feet through the same pant leg. Instead of being a nice mom by helping him fix his mistake, I stood him up, grabbed the video camera and made him walk to me.

Why do I find this so entertaining? Maybe it reminds me of my childhood... when my brothers and I would tape our cats feet together and laugh hysterically while it tried to free itself. I know, it probably goes down in the books as animal abuse.. but we didn't grow up privileged.. we didn't have money or toys or Nintendos. We had to entertain ourselves with creative imaginations. And here I am, years later, still laughing over my own creative games....

baby shower!!

I have been up since 6 am and have been running around ever since.. typical Saturday I guess. We had the Nevada caucus in the morning (go Mitt!) Aaron took the boys to Chuck E's for lunch while I went to see my favorite (and cutest) pregnant girl. Danalin is in town visiting her family and it was so much fun to be at her baby shower. She is due in a few short weeks and she looks so great! I love Dana.. she is such a great friend to me!

oh, and I am very aware of the fact that I am a head taller than everyone in this picture... I was even trying to scrunch down and blend in.

Boujour Danny Bonjour

All you Utahns out there, mark your calendars for the LDS film festival

When: Saturday, January 19th, 5 pm
Where: Scera Theatre in Orem (745 South State Street)
Cost: $6

Bonjour Danny Bonjour (directed by Aaron's talented and creative brother, Brett) will be returning to the state of it’s conception when it graces the screen at the 7th annual LDS FIlm Festival. Audience members will cast their votes in several audience choice categories, so come out and show some love! DVD’s will be on sale after the screening for a bargain $5. Plus, you’ll score a chance to meet the Actors, Crew, and Director to tell them how much you hate them and their silly little movie, but how it secretly showers you with radiant shades of blistering happiness in your simple, quiet moments.

If you don't have any plans on Saturday night, then head to the film festival. Bonjour Danny Bonjour is a hilarious 15 minute film about a young man with anger issues. His father left him, his mother is a tyrant, and he is no good at croquet. When he meets une belle French fille Marie, he discovers there may be more to the world then his own rage.

Wish we could be there to support you, Brett! Good luck!!

kids museum

We spent the day at the children's museum and had a great time.
I've decided that video clips do a much better job better at capturing the kid's excitement..

birthday festivities

Zack had a fantabulous birthday.. he didn't exactly say that, but I'm his mother and can practically read his mind. It was a busy day full of visiting teaching appointments and grocery shopping. I know, very exciting.. but the kid is 2 and doesn't know any different.

We had a little dino party for him after dinner with a few friends from the neighborhood. He opened a TON of presents- thanks to both sets of grandparents! The picture grid is proof of our CRAZY time.

At the end of the night, Luke said, "That party was so fun that I wish we could open presents until Zack turns 4." Obviously someone is liking the new toys.

p.s. Zack's second birthday was a thousand times better than his first... 5 days after we moved to Vegas, our power was turned off and we had to head elsewhere for dinner and birthday cake. Only Kelly can really understand what I am talking about.. but take my word for it, his birthdays are getting better and better... I can only imagine how much fun next year will be.

Happy Birthday Zack!!

Zack stats:
Age: 2
Height: 31 inches
Weight: 27 lbs

Favorite words: Benny, Lukey, milk, please, thank-you-you're-welcome (one phrase), Oh no! I made a mess!
Favorites foods: milk, yogurt, string cheese, dirt, anything with sugar.
Favorite thing to do: Make messes and throw things.. such as rocks, balls and tantrums.
Favorite tv show: "Clues clues"
Favorite books: Goodnight moon, Alex the Alligator and Brown bear, brown bear.
Favorite animal: PUPPIES! (and dinosaurs or anything with sharp teeth)

Memorable things about the day Zack was born:
▪Ben and Luke were in the delivery room... it was awesome!

▪He came out snorting like a pig (according to Luke) and crying like a lamb (according to Ben)

▪He was placed in mom's arms and the nurses didn't take him out of our room for 7 hours.

▪We didn't have any hospital visitors.. it was just our little family.

Lines from my journal, written the night he was born:

We have no IDEA what we are going to name this kid. He looks so different from what we expected.. not anything like our other two. He's seems more fair.. and only has a little bit of blonde hair in the back.

When Aaron was leaving the hospital with the boys, I heard Ben say to Luke, "Wasn't that cool meeting our new brother?"

For some reason, I get the sense that this little guy is silly. I look at him and just feel like laughing.

The nurses finally came to get the baby to bathe him. We met him only a few hours ago, but it's seems as though he's been in our family forever. Isn't it amazing how much love you can feel for a newborn?

If you want to see Zack's reaction to this video, click here.
We love you, Zack!! We can't imagine our family without you and your crazy personality!

Happy 2nd birthday and happy 200th post.

The game was a BUST.

I surprised Aaron with tickets to the UNLV vs. BYU basketball game, but I wish I hadn't. It was a terrible night to find a babysitter... a late night in the middle of the week. The game didn't start until 8 pm and the Cougars really let us down. The final score was 70-41. Pathetic, I know. I would have much rather stayed home and watched the season premier of American Idol. Oh well, I guess it's the thought that counts.

It was fun to be out with Aaron... our highlight of the night was paying $5 bucks to some high school kid working at the arena so we could park in the VIP lot. We thought we were high rollers parking front row next to the Beamers and Mercedes. Of course, our little '91 Honda stuck out like a sore thumb, but that's how we roll.

puppy love

My kids and I go to the pet store often. It's fun, free and somehow makes me feel a little less guilty for not actually having a pet in my home. Sometimes I tell myself that someday we can get a puppy, but then I walk into the pet store and realize that I don't want my home smelling like animals. Anyway, today's trip to the store was rather uneventful until I noticed Luke dancing around. If Luke starts dancing, that means he REALLY has to go to the bathroom. He doesn't actually tell me this until he's about to cry. This kid seriously goes pee twice a day, and when he finally does, he pees for at least 5 minutes. He must have a huge bladder. Anyway, this is not what I wanted to post about... I've gotten sidetracked. Luke and Ben were in the men's bathroom (because they have boycotted the women's and will no longer come in with me...) To quote Luke from a few months ago... "MOM! I am not a WOMEN!"

While standing outside the bathroom with Zack (which seemed like forever) I was forced to look at the cat food. MY-OH-MY!! I cannot BELIEVE how many varieties of food there are for cats! Seriously.. different categories for every possible condition you can think of!! Let me list a few off the top of my head....

♦ Weight Loss ♦ Hairball control ♦ Oral Management ♦ Arthritis Care ♦ Sensitive Skin ♦ High Energy ♦ sensitive stomach ♦ extreme shedding care ♦ Allergies ♦ dull or dry fur.... and this isn't including the different flavors!! I was surprised there wasn't special food for cross-eyed cats or restless leg syndrome.

I am probably very unaware of how complicated it is to feed an animal, but I grew up with a cat, and we poured some milk in a bowl and gave him leftover dinner scraps. I can barely take care of my own kid's oral care and energy levels.. why would I want to add to the chaos? This just confirms my personal belief that we are not ready for a pet yet...

One week with one person...

I have been meaning to start writing with the Tuesday Tell All topics for a while now, but this is my first week. I think it will be good to record entries on topics that I wouldn't otherwise write about. This link has a new topic of discussion each Tuesday... this week the subject is-- If you could go anywhere with anyone for one week, who would it be and why.. This answer was easy for me.

As much fun as it would be to head somewhere tropical with my handsome husband, this is not my choice. If I had my wish and could do anything, it would be to spend that time with my grandma Roma, in her quiet little trailer home in Provo. We could spend our week talking and looking at pictures, playing games, swimming at the community pool, feeding ducks at the duck pond, and head to the Hostess bakery shop where I could buy anything I wanted! And even though she would have a comfortable guest room for me to stay in, I would sleep next to her in her bed and play dress ups with her colorful ancient jewelry in the morning. I really don't want to go anywhere exotic or expensive-- I am in need of some major female connection and this would be the perfect getaway!!

I think I am a relatively social person who loves to make new friends and experience new things-- but sometimes it's hard to feel close with other females-- to really feel understood. It's not that I feel like I have to put on a show for anyone and pretend to be someone I am not, but making good connections is not an easy job. And ever since moving away from my family, I think deep down, I have been really lonely. I have lots of fun, trivial interactions with people everyday... but I need more depth. The kind of conversations that make you feel completely comfortable with yourself and at the same time, make you want to be a better person.

As wonderful as Aaron is (I mean, he is an excellent husband in every way) sometimes I feel like we are speaking a different language and wonder if he really gets me. And my kids-- I love them to death, but they are such BOYS and I wish we could do something other than sword fight or make things blow up. I mean, doesn't anyone want to create something in the kitchen or dress up like a princess? I do!! And every time I try to put makeup or fingernail polish on my kids, Aaron grounds me from them. It not that I don't love having 3 of the cutest boys around, but every once in a while, I am in desperate need of girl power.

Sunday comics

Most of you know that we have been released from the nursery in our ward... and we were totally bummed about it. We had such a great time with the little kids (including our Zack.) It was bitter-sweet when we were called to be the CTR 7 teachers. I am so glad that we are still serving together... and now we are Ben's teachers. I think it's exciting for Benny to "show off" his parents to his fellow classmates. And Aaron has these 6 year olds wrapped around his finger after two short weeks. Today when they came in to class, he shook each of their hands. When they wanted to let go, he wouldn't let them. Then he started shaking his whole arm (and eventually his whole body) before the kids were hysterically laughing and finally got free of him. They think he is Mr. Funnyman. It's a great age because funny things are always coming out of their mouths. Today after one particular boy shook Aaron's hand (and sent him into an electric shock) he said, "Man, you really are a mover and a shaker, aren't you?" Exactly my thoughts when I first met Aaron.

This same little guy guessed the answer to our hang man game with only a few letters on the board.. The answer was "What would Jesus do." When we asked him how he got it so quickly, he said, "Well, I've heard it on Transformers before." We know exactly what he's talking about because we've seen the movie more than once in our home... but it still wasn't the answer we were expecting.

Another shocking answer from the mouth of a babe came in sharing time. The question was, "What does it mean to have Eternal Life?" Her response: "It's when you die and your spirit is separated from your body... then your spirit goes into the body of another little baby." Hmm... not exactly. I think that is something called reincarnation... and we don't believe in that, but nice try.

My all-time-favorite Sunday funny came from a Primary program a few years ago. It was a little girl about 10, who got up in Sacrament meeting to talk about her most memorable Family Home Evening lesson. She told a sweet story of her family going to a park, getting a bucket of chicken and having a lesson under the trees. Then she stated, "After we finished eating, we cut through the chicken bones with a pocketknife and talked about Joseph Smith's leg operation when he was a little boy." You could just hear the whole congregation groan with disgust. I saw her mom shrink down in her seat while saying, "That was NOT the lesson, I promise!"

Kids.. they say the darnedest things. Does anyone have any priceless Sunday comments? Not everyone is blessed enough to serve in the Primary each week, so if you have any funnies, please share.

Happy Birthday Cindy!!

My beautiful baby sister is 18 today! I can't believe it!! (Even though she has always been mature beyond her years.) Cindy is my favorite little sis. My mom had three boys after me. I always prayed for a little sister and she finally came! I was ten years old when she was born and I still
remember how excited I was to see her and have a little sister all to myself! She was glued to my hip for her first couple of years. I carried her around everywhere and was always so proud of my cute little Cindy Lou!

Cindy is such a sweetheart and a wonderful aunt to her 24 nieces and nephews. She's an excellent babysitter and will make SUCH a great mother and wife because she has had so much experience with kids. She was even there in the delivery room when Ben was born!

She is a very busy teenager with classes, choir/madrigals and seminary council. And to top it off, she has a very intense job at the local care center. She works hard... and when most high school girls are spending time at the mall, worried about what clothes they are wearing, Cindy is changing diapers and feeding adults who can't care for themselves. She even bathes grown men!! She is very unselfish and is SO good with those under her care. She knows what is really important in life and has her priorities straight. She is much more mature than most 18 year olds I know, and I am so proud to have her as my little sis!

I can't wait to see where life takes you, Cindyrella! You have everything to look forward to and so much to offer the world! I love you and hope you have a great 18th birthday!

p.s. Aaron says to keep your heartbreaking to a minimum!

weekend fun

Date Night

Aaron and I went ice skating at a local rink on Saturday night. It actually felt like winter in Vegas! We had a great time, even though we were the only ones older than 15 on the ice... We had hot chocolate, did a little shopping for upcoming birthdays, and came home a watched a movie (We are Marshall... one of my favs) I do not care for Matthew McConaughay. . but he is really good in this one. It's just a good healing movie (true story) that will make you laugh-- but mostly cry. And it's a sports show, so most guys like it too.

I took the kids to the park 3 times this week. It was just so beautiful outside... The sun is therapeutic for me.
On Friday, we met Denett and her boys for lunch. A good time was had by all.

Walking with Dinosaurs

Our field trip this week was totally Out of this WORLD!

And I am not exaggerating here. I woke the kids up early and told them to put on their best dinosaur shirts because we were going back in time! We loaded up in our Time Machine (the minivan) and took off! Unfortunately, I made a few wrong turns and ended up on the other side of town. Ben asked why it was taking SO long to get there and I responded with, "HELLO!! We are traveling back in time 100 million years... and I am not driving a rocket ship here!" That kept them quite for a few minutes. Luckily, we arrived just before the show began.

It was an INcredible show (to say the least!) and we were SO lucky to be in the best seats-- front and center... on the 5th row! I thought I was going to pee my pants! Seriously, the hairs were standing up on the back of my neck. Ben and Luke were so giddy and loved every minute of it. Zack liked it, until the T-Rex tried to bite his head off. There were quite a few kids around us that were freaking out. I overheard Ben say to Luke, "I bet everyone crying in here is a GIRL!" That made me laugh.

My little men in their dino shirts.

The highlights of the day were:

■ Ben naming each dinosaur before the narrator... and he was so excited and was practically screaming each name!

■ Zack saying "AWESOME" at least 20 times.. he really wants to be like his big brothers!

■ Luke telling me (at the end of the show) "You're the BEST mom that I've ever had!"

I felt really bad that Aaron couldn't join us on our adventure. It sucks that he has to work for a living!! It was 100% his idea to buy the tickets and I ended up taking all the credit (and having all the fun.) Too bad, so sad. Here is one last video that we took from our camera. The highlight of the Tyrannosaurus' performance was just after I stopped recording... but I had to cut it because Zack had me around my neck so tight, I thought I was going to choke. He was really scared, or in his language, "willy cared!"

white trash

Luke and I thought we would tease Ben about his missing teeth by showing him what he looks like.
Ben thought it was ridiculously funny. Zack wouldn't have anything to do with us.

Our nightly ritual is cuddling up in my bed and reading Shel Silverstein before going to sleep.
It's been so much fun and the boys think his poems are hilarious...
their giggles are my payment for a long, tiring day. Somehow it makes it ALL worth it.

follow up... on several random topics.

I was going to reply back to a few comments on previous posts, but decided it would be easier to do a whole new post with answers to questions and recent updates..

Smoothies.
The recipe I posted is not a meal replacement. It's more like a dessert for me-- more healthy than eating a piece of chocolate cake. I do make a different shake that is equally delicious and drink it for breakfast every so often. It's skim milk, a banana, ice and a scoop of soy protein powder-- (I buy my powder from Walmart.. AdvantEdge brand in vanilla or choc flavor. I think it's about $9 and lasts about two weeks.) This has a ton of protein... 20 grams in each scoop-- add another 8 grams from the milk and you have yourself one hearty breakfast. It's quick, keeps me satisfied and is very yummy.

My smoothie maker is Back to Basics brand and although the spout is very cool, I don't think it's much better than a regular blender. In fact, I still have to double check if the ice is properly mixed before I drink it.. One thing I recommend is using pebble ice. It makes smoothies that much better. You can buy in it a bag at Macey's or Sonic and it's so worth the $1.50/bag. But, you must also consider that I am a little obsessed with this ice and believe we should all convert.

I have used flaxseed in the past, but don't have any on hand. Is there anyone out there that wants to convince me to go and buy more? I do, however, take Omega 3 fish oil (in the capsule) everyday with my breakfast along with a vitamin and believe it's made me feel much better..

My Starburst Video
Holy cow. I had no idea this would cause such commotion! Not so much from my friends, who already knew I was super talented in this area, but I am getting people from everywhere (who actually do an Internet search on "unwrapping starbursts in your mouth") and the response has been overwhelming!! I am seriously laughing about it. After doing the search myself, I found many individuals who have videotaped themselves and my conclusion is that I am a world champ. Seriously, people think they are cool because they can do it under 45 seconds. I mean, I am running laps around these amateurs. But the truth is, I am still very embarrassed to be found by some random person doing a search on this subject... don't people have lives out there? Do we honestly have time to be taping ourselves, let alone watching other people do this dumb trick? Youtube has seriously changed our world and made us all a little lamer-- and yet more popular at the same time.

Which brings me to Shannon. She was too ashamed (or not able) to comment on my blog about the Starburst challenge. But I will inform you that her husband was proud of her 54 second record. She was ecstatic about doing it under a MINUTE and actually thought she had me. As if. Shan, if you want a challenge, there are a few people out there on youtube you should contact. I am just out of your league in this area. I mean, what else can I say? Heavenly Father has blessed me with a talent, and I am doing my best to share it with the world. In other words, I am the one in the scriptures who multiplies my gifts rather than buries them.

Moving on...

Underground Animals
Who would have guessed that I would find myself FASCINATED with Meerkats? Not only did we have a 20 minute lesson on their lifestyle, but I read about them after the kids went to bed because our lesson was so intriguing. Here is a little report on what I found.

►Meerkats can dig as much dirt as their own body weight in a couple of seconds! They have binocular vision and can see better (and farther) than we can.

►Meerkats are the first non-human mammals seen actively teaching their young. For example, adult meerkats teach the pups to eat a venomous scorpion by first removing the stinger-- the adult coaches the young on how to handle the venomous creature until they are able to do it on their own. (and apparently, their black circles around their eyes protect them from the poisonous venom of scorpions and snakes.. ?)

►They are very social animals, living in small communities of about 30. They also have a social status network.. the dominate female does most of the breeding and the other females are assigned to babysit. If a female in the group happens to get pregnant, she evicted and usually starts another colony elsewhere.

►They have sentry, or a watch dog, assigned to lookout over the group and warn them in case of danger. When a predator is spotted, the sentry gives a warning bark for the rest to go underground. It has been recently found that meerkats have specific calls for different dangers.. one for the approach of snakes, another for birds of prey, etc.

►Meerkats have been reported to have several social gatherings, such as wresting matches, singing ceremonies and foot races. They regularly groom each other to strengthen social bonds. This practice is reported when group members are reunited after a short period apart.

►Despite this altruistic behavior, meerkats sometimes kill members of their own group. Subordinate meerkats have been seen killing the offspring of more senior members in order to advance their own offsprings' position. Isn't that so interesting? I wonder if they have some kind of justice system that condemns these murderers... Do they send them packing or give them a death penalty.. you know, use them for bait next time a predator comes around. I will have to research a little more.

Maybe this report was boring or over the top for some of you, but I am totally fascinated by these peculiar animals. I mean, I have seen Timon on the Lion King but had no idea he was such an interesting creature! Can't wait for next Monday's lesson!!

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood

The rewards of having more than one child are many... like, for instance when the older children are big enough to take care of the younger child.

The day at the park was beautiful and I just sat back and talked with a friend as Ben and Luke pushed Zack in the swing. They were on each side and Zack was having a blast.

This is my kind of afternoon at the park.. especially an afternoon in January.

my favorite treat

Thanks to my friend Rachel for the recipe
and my MIL Brandy for my new smoothy maker, I've enjoyed this

delicious smoothie

every day this year. It is seriously better than dessert.. and so much healthier.

I don't really follow a strict recipe, but this is what I usually do..

◦Orange Juice--8 to 10 ounces

◦Spinach-- fresh is great, but frozen is almost just as good

◦a handful of berries-- (my fav are blueberries, but I have tried a mixed variety as well as just strawberries.)

◦1 banana-- or more if you like. I freeze mine the night before!

◦Ice

Blend well and ENJOY! Honestly, this is just as yummy as Jamba Juice. I am now having to double or triple the recipe everyday because my kids are begging for mine. It is delish and super easy.

** I have substituded the berries for a ripe mango and LOVED it... but I don't usually have mangoes on hand. Oh- and if you've never tried Kale it's great too.. use it instead of the Spinach for an even healthier drink!

my google search for the day-- "animals that live underground"

In my attempt to make 2008 a little more organized and efficient, I decided to make a schedule for weekly activities, specifically for homeschooling. In 2007, Friday in our home was known as "Field Trip Friday" and it made life simple. We all knew that Friday was a day to pack a lunch and head out the door. So, after talking with my kids about what they wanted to learn this year, I asked them to come up with a few things they wanted to focus on and make a weekly calendar with specifics.

Ben was enthusiastic about this idea and quickly made his list..
Monday=Math day.
Tuesday=Geography.
Wednesday=History.
Thursday=Science.
and so forth.

Luke's ideas were so off the wall. I couldn't help but laugh when I saw his categories..
Monday=Underground Animals
Tuesday=State Flags
Wednesday=What's inside animals bodies
Thursdays=Oxygen
EXCUSE ME? I mean, how many underground animals are there, really? When I laughed at what he wrote down, he was annoyed-- because he didn't want to make the list in the first place. I felt bad.. but hello, that's funny!

Luke is really going to struggle if I ever do send him to school. I try to be relaxed about him and just let him join in whenever he wants... because frankly he isn't 5 yet. But a little while ago, I gave him a worksheet of simple math problems.. you know, 2+2. I have no idea what level of math he can comprehend, but he's definitely past the simple addition/subtraction phase, so this would be easy for him. He took one look at the page and started a debate that left me without an argument..

Luke: Why do you want me to fill this out?

Me: To see how well you know your math.

Luke: Well, what are you doing to do with it after I fill it out?

Me: I am going to correct it to see if which ones you got right.

Luke: and then what?

Me: Maybe put a sticker on it or put in on the fridge. (said with lots of enthusiasm!)

Luke: No, I don't really want to do this. There is no story with it.. like 2 elephants are drinking at a lake and 2 more come. This isn't fun.

Me: Um... well, I guess you don't have to do it... ??? (I mean, where do I go from there.)

If he ever goes to school, he might have some major issues with structured learning.. but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.

Ben, on the other hand, LOVES worksheets and wants me to put a sticker next to every question. So-- I am working on finding a balance between the two of them. I don't have any idea school teachers handle a classroom full of kids who all learn so differently... and here I am struggling with two-- sometimes three.

Anyway, it's Monday morning and I am blogging instead of studying the life of meerkats and groundhogs. better get going....... I have a lot of research to do.

This is for Shannon....

#1 you must know that I am really embarrassed for posting this video.... and it takes a lot to embarrass me. It's not really a big deal, but there is this friend who lives far away who thinks that she can open Starbursts in her mouth faster than me.. and we ALL know that she doesn't have a chance. put your money where your mouth is, girl...

#2 take into consideration that I had no preparation before this video was recorded. Aaron gave me no warning and I didn't get to warm up. That's my excuse for the 4 second unwrapping rather than my record breaking 3 seconds.

breakfast funnies

This morning while eating breakfast, I had a great conversation with my kids. It went a little like this:

Ben: So, what did you and Dad do at your New Year’s Eve party?

Me: We played games and had lots of fun.

Luke: What kind of games did you play?

Me: We played one called The Newlywed Game. Where the dads had to answer questions and the moms tried to guess what the dads said.

Ben: Like what kind of questions?

Me: There was one that Dad had to answer… it said, “What animal does your mother-in-law remind you of?” So we had to pick an animal for Grandma Bev to be.

Ben: Which one did you chose?

Me: I said a deer. But I didn’t guess the same as Dad.

Luke: What did Dad chose?

Me: A camel.

Luke: Was it a one humped camel or two?

Me: I didn't ask him, but if I had to take a wild guess, it would be two.

Ben: Was he trying to be funny or did he really think that?

Me: He really thought that... I think.

Ben: I would guess a cat.

Zack: Meow.

Luke: I pick a goldfish.

Ben: I can’t BELIEVE dad would chose a camel. How would you EVER guess a camel?

Me: That’s why we lost the game… because I never know what Dad is thinking.

happy new year

We had a fun New Years Eve party with friends.. We played games, ate great food, and had some bubbly at midnight!

Ben woke up around 8 am and shouted: "HOLY COW! It's JANUARY FIRST 2008!" Aaron and I just laughed out loud because we didn't do any celebrating with him... he was fast asleep when the fireworks started, but obviously he understands it's time to get a new calendar. Luke just responded with, "Oh cool." which really means, "I have no idea what that means."

I am excited about my new year's resolutions! 2008 is going to be a good year, baby!