painting fun

Thirty minutes after the professional painter left our home today, Zack decided he wanted to start a career in painting himself. Ben, Luke and I were playing a game while Mr. Mischievous was just 10 steps away from us, doing this:

I know you can see green paint on the carpet, but you have no idea HOW MUCH it was. The normal me would have screamed, spanked the naked child, and ran around the house like a chicken with my head cut off.. but for some reason I didn't. I stayed calm, put Zack in the tub and asked Ben and Luke to help me. Instead of smearing the paint into the carpet while trying to scrub it out, I grabbed the shop vac in the garage. Something told me that if I emptied the dirt inside the vacuum, it would suction up water... where this thought came from, I am not sure. Probably the brilliant person inside my head that I never knew was there because I am always such a nut case. I asked the older boys to bring me buckets of water... I mixed it with vinegar (a trick I learned from a cleaning class in RS, inspiration that would not have come had I freaked out.) I poured the hot water and vinegar mixture over the paint and then I quickly sucked the green water up in the vacuum. When the vacuum was full, I emptied it in the tub (not the one Zack was in :) and repeated the process...  Ben and Luke were happy to help me because I was encouraging, upbeat and got excited about needing them. It was all actually quite a fun experience, from beginning to end.

We filled up the bathtub twice with dark green water... The first time was much darker, this was just the last flush.  I was so glad to see it go down the drain, knowing it wasn't in my carpet anymore.


About twenty minutes after the incident, Zack was bathed, the new paint was drying, and I started making pancakes for dinner. An hour after my husband came home from work and he had NO IDEA we had a mini-disaster.  Everyone was happy to be together and the house was cleaner than before. There might be a little trace of green in the carpet, but we can always replace that later.. There is no such replacement for my kids.

Now, the reason why this post doesn't have a million exclamation points is because I am a calmer me. I honestly am not stressing about the small stuff. Yesterday I read a post from a grieving mommy blogger, Molly Jackson. I have never met her, but have recently been following her blog. Molly's 2 year old daughter, Lucy passed away four months ago. Their family was on their way home from church when Lucy choked on an apple while sitting in her car seat. It's the most tragic, heartbreaking story... and I continue to read it because the entries are so real... so unbelievably eloquent and so inspiring. I cry every time I read it and can't help but feel grateful for all that I have. When I saw the green paint on the new walls and carpet, I instantly thought of Molly and how much she misses her two year old. I knew right away that carpet is replaceable and walls can be repainted.. This little guy means so much to me and I do NOT know how I could go on living without him, no matter how much chaos he brings to my life. Thank you, Lucy, for reminding me of what is important. Thank you for keeping me from freaking out when I know that things are so temporary. Thank you for helping me love my DISASTER CHILD like I should.

the MUNDANE joys of life...

I wasn't kidding when I said that blogging was going on the back burner! I literally haven't sat down at the computer since Thursday morning and I feel so caught up on life, but so behind in the cyber-world. Something's gotta give, I guess. My cell phone battery was dead for most of the weekend... but it was a special treat listening to the 32 messages I had when it was finally charged! Wahoo! (When you have a big family, you feel rather special on your birthday!) Anyway, thanks to everyone.. and maybe eventually I will get around to responding to some of the emails and blogs I have neglected... just maybe.

Progression on our house is coming along! It is being painted this week, which will make everything seem homey-er. We spent most of Saturday running errands, buying paint, etc, etc. We stopped for a late lunch and everyone was exhausted. Aaron was frustrated and said something about hating spending his weekends this way. I laughed because we were saying the same thing about trying to FIND a house just a few months ago. And here we are, in a house and we're just not able to enjoy it yet. What a process! THIS is the very reason I was never anxious to buy our own house. Because then you have to make grown up decisions and stress about things that just don't really matter.

Anyway, here's the quick update on everyone--

Ben-- is just the most wonderful 7 year old I could ever ask for. He's helpful, sweet and so ORDERLY! I just love him.. He is growing like a weed and is wise beyond his years. I am struggling with homeschooling him because he's already smarter than me. How could this be? I am so very smart myself!! But I just don't know what to do and stress about not being the kind of mother he deserves. I really just look up to him and love being in his presence! His new talent lately is climbing up walls and opening doors with his feet.. which was so proudly shown in our family talent show last night.

Luke-- is going through a weird-awkward-boy stage. I mean, he's still cute and everything, but he is ALWAYS pulling crazy faces and making disgusting noises with his mouth. He's been a beat boxer since birth, but now it's less rhythm and more fart sounds and weird grunts. I don't know what to do with him!! He is still very sentimental and doesn't want to hurt anyone's feelings. Last night, he had to make the choice between going to the grocery store with Daddy to pick up a few items or staying home to play a game with Ben and Mommy. You would think this would be a simple decision-- but a minute after we told him his options, we found him in the corner crying because he just didn't know WHAT to do. I tried not to laugh as I told him that both decisions are good-- and it won't hurt anyone's feelings whichever way he chose. He dried his tears, grabbed his shoes and ran out the door with his Dad. While they were gone, I was smiling just contemplating the DRAMA that we would have if we told him we were getting divorced. I would love to see the look on his face while choosing which parent he loved more... because he is really cute when he is crying!

Zack-- and I have a rollercoaster relationship. I love him so much, but sometimes I just want to sell him to the Gypsies. He literally eats, drinks and breathes STAR WARS. He is obsessed. He knows the names to EVERY character.. it's incredible. He can tell you the story line of every episode (even though you can barely understand what he's saying.) One of the cutest things about his obsession is him singing the theme song wherever he goes. Tonight I recorded his little song and downloaded it for my ringtone on my cell phone. He is talking non-stop and I love every minute of it because I know his cute, high pitched voice is going to grow up soon and I will miss it! He is still doing well potty training (still not perfect, but we're okay with that.) He wants to go by himself and he's still always NAKED! I am so glad we live in a warm place so I am not constantly worried if he's going to freeze his bum off. As I was getting out the shower a few days ago, Zack ran into my bathroom. (He was fully dressed when I jumped into the shower, but he's quick to take off ALL his clothes when I'm not around.) When he saw me, he got a HUGE smile on his face, raised his eyebrows and said, "HEY! You big naked. I'm tiny naked!" It was a great observation of "are we the same, but yet, different." I'm beginning to realize that the reason why he drives me SO CRAZY is because we are more alike than we are different. But he is the only one in my house who laughs at my jokes, so I am going to keep him around a while longer.

Aaron-- is my favorite husband. He works hard and plays hard.. and I am grateful for the wonderful example he is to our boys. He planned a spectacular surprise trip to Florida for my birthday, scheduled to leave next week.. and I am SUCH a mean wife because I turned him down. The trip was ten days long (including a cruise to the Caribbean) and even though it sounds HEAVENLY to go... I just can't do it. Leaving the kids for that long, spending the money, and trying to relax when we have SO much to do (and lots to pay for) just doesn't seem to jive with ALL that we have going on. He got a great deal on the plane tickets and the cruise was super cheap (because it's hurricane season-- so let's go kill ourselves and leave our kids parentless!) The truth is, it's been a hard decision. This is the second year in a row I have turned down a trip to FL for my birthday, and I really feel bad about it... but I think he understands me and where I am coming from. I have just learned through this process that men think so differently!! But I appreciate the differences and love his stable, consistent emotions. He is seriously my rock and I am so grateful to have such a man in my life.

And here's to Me. I feel like I am a basketcase somedays and a super-mom the next. I really don't know why I am so unstable and off balance! More than anything, I have been trying to be quiet, calm and reserved so that I can find more peace in my life. This week I have had a major breakthrough-- I have been searching for the light-- and it finally came, in the least expected moment. To put it simply, I am trying hard not to force myself to be anyone else.. but just be comfortable with being. I honestly don't know who I am anymore, but I am okay with that and look forward to wiping the slate clean and starting over. Looking back at the last 12 months-- all I can say is, "I am so glad I don't have to live that year over!" I found out I was expecting a baby on my 28th birthday and was thrilled about it.. up until that point getting pregnant (and staying that way) wasn't a problem. But here I am, a year later, and it seems like a decade ago. I am so much more grown up!! I know that sounds lame, but I have been through a lot emotionally & physically in the past year. I feel like I have stepped out of my shell, away from the person who I always thought I was (and who many of you think I am because you only see 1% of the real me) and a huge load has been lifted off my shoulders. Of course, it's a daily battle-- focusing on what is important-- not comparing yourself with others-- learning to say "no" to things that you WANT to say "yes" to-- excepting yourself for who you ARE and not what you wish you were-- etc, etc, etc. But I honestly have felt more peace and contentment just by being grateful (truly grateful) for what I have... I am so blessed and so LOST at the same time! What a journey!

Anyway, this is NOT what I intended to write tonight, but it is what it is. I wanted to sit down post about our dear friends, the Reijonens, who we were able to visit in AZ over 3 months ago. I still haven't posted the pictures or written about why we love them so.. but that will have to be for next time. Sundays just go by too quickly, don't they? Hope you are all happy and well and that you will forgive me for being so random (and for maybe not posting for another week!)

In the warmth of the sun.

Last Sunday, I bore my testimony in church and mentioned an experience I had on my 19th birthday. It is an experience that I think about often, but I have never written it down.. and it's definitely an experience that I want written in my book of life. As I typed it up for my personal journaling blog, I decided that I would share it with everyone else. I apologize to those in my neighborhood who heard it last week.. but then again, no one is making you read it-- so never mind.


My first birthday away from home was ten years ago. I was a college freshman at Ricks College, in Idaho. The semester started about a week before my 19th birthday. I was excited to move away from home, make new friends and be independent.. but when my birthday came around, I realized that no matter how hard I tried to deny it, I was really HOMESICK.

I tried to act like it wasn't a big deal that no body knew it was my birthday. I spent the morning on campus, going to my classes, trying to pretend I was okay. I was practically waiting by the mailbox in the afternoon for the postman to deliver a package or card from my family. But when he arrived, he was empty handed. It turns out, my mom forgot to put the apartment number on the package and it took a few days to get to me. No big deal really, except that it was.. for me. 1998 was a year before cell phones and email.. so even if people wanted to get a hold of me, it wasn't easy. As the day progressed, the loneliness sunk in. I didn't want to sulk around my apartment or (heaven forbid) cry! in front of my roommates! Instead, I took a small blanket and headed up on campus to the most beautiful place in Rexburg-- the Gardens.

I laid out my blanket in the shade of a big oak tree and let the emptiness sink in. I brought my journal to write in, but my tears were rubbing the ink and staining the pages.. so I stopped and sat in the quietness and cried. It was hard being off on my own, feeling like no one knew the 'real' me. And even though I knew this experience was good for me, I just couldn't help but feel pathetic and lonely. In that quiet moment, I looked up at the bright warm sun. It came through the leaves of the trees and as it hit me, it filled my entire body with warmth. I didn't hear a voice or any background hallelujah music, but I will never forget the love that I felt. As the sun was shining on me, I knew, without a doubt, that my Heavenly Parents were aware of me. They knew it was my birthday and knew how depleted I had felt. Instantaneously, my emptiness was filled with love and I no longer was alone.

As a young girl, I had simple realizations that there was a God in heaven who loved me and knew me personally. But never before had I felt the love of a Heavenly Mother. It was a knowledge that came over my entire body, and as I looked at the beautiful plants, trees and flowers that surrounded me, I was overwhelmed with a sense of peace and contentment. I had been created for a purpose. And even though I was far away from home and I was missing my family, I had not been forgotten. I remember the walk home-- the sun had set and it was dark, but I did not feel the least bit chilly. I had, for one small instant, seen myself in a new light.. and felt a fraction of the love that God has for me. And that in itself was the greatest gift I could have received.

It's been ten years (and two days) since that night and I can't tell you how many times I have thought back on that moment... a hundred? maybe more. I have realized over the years that it was such a blessing to feel such 'despair', because I withdrew myself from the loud, busy college life and found a place that was quiet, peaceful and open. Sometimes we are given trials to humble us, to get us on our knees, so that we are able to feel of His love. He is always willing to give it, but we are rarely in the situation to receive it.

Fast forward ten years, and here I am. I have been blessed with a wonderful husband and three beautiful boys who I love and adore. I have all that I need and more than I could ask for. Yet, somehow, I still find myself in moments of despair, when I feel like no one understands what I am going through. I am still struggling with the same feelings of insecurity and worthlessness, and it seems like no matter how MUCH I do or how MANY friends I make, I still feel the same emptiness. And then, I realize, that I am not going to THE source for happiness and peace.

I know that God is aware of each of us. He knows us personally. He loves us and wants us to feel happiness and joy in our busy, crazy lives. We will never find satisfaction or peace by comparing ourselves with those around us... We are not inferior nor superior to anyone else. We were created equal and yet we are so beautifully unique. We must rejoice in our individuality and be grateful for our differences.. and try to find more quiet, peaceful moments to feel of His love so that we can see ourselves for who we really are.

Twenty-nine and feeling fine.

There comes a time when you are old enough and mature enough to NOT care what happens on your birthday.. and I believe I have finally reached that point in my life. Who ever thought I would grow up?

Yesterday was a good, ordinary day. Zack crawled in bed with me at 5 am because he had a "-cary dream". We had cereal for breakfast and went on a long bike ride. The boys fought over who got to kill the cricket in the bathroom. The legos were spread over my entire house. I did a few loads of laundry-- mainly because Z had the runs and kept having accidents throughout the day. He was lucky enough to be thrown in the shower several times (and was thrilled about it.) We met Aaron for lunch at Costco.. because there is nothing that says "Happy Birthday" better than a greasy piece of cheese pizza and a 50 cent fountain drink. We went to Target. We took a nap. And when Aaron got home from work, we all headed to the park.


The original plan was to go on a hike like we did for my birthday last year, but at the bottom of the mountain, where the hike begins, there was a panicked mom looking for her lost 5 year old. We split up-- searching the parking lot, vast field and playground for little Malachi. By the time he was found (and after we all watched him get a good scolding) it was too dark at the park to head up the mountain. So Aaron and I watched the kids throw sand at each other and squeal down the slide. Just before we headed home, someone (I think it was me, but I could be just trying to take the credit away from Aaron) suggested that our family run through the waterpark area. It was dark and getting cold, but after Aaron ran through, the kids couldn't resist. I am sure there were people pointing at us (because WHAT parents would allow their kids to get sopping wet, let alone join them?) but we didn't care. It was a good time and Aaron even posed for a family picture... but just because it was my birthday.


We drove home drenched, changed into our pj's, and threw together a late dinner consisting of turkey sandwiches and Doritos. While we were eating, I pulled out a few gifts I had bought for the kids.. I wanted to give them something on my birthday and they didn't object. They each got a spiral notebook (it's amazing how excited kids can get over blank paper), a package of m&m's and a Star Wars card game. We went to bed at 9:30 pm without any cake, candles or fireworks... I couldn't have been more pleased with how the day turned out. None of my gifts were wrapped this year, but the truth is-- the most important things in life aren't THINGS.

because Elmo KNOWS it's my birthday

This morning, my boys were BEGGING me to come and watch Sesame Street with them. I wanted to jump in the shower, but they wouldn't let me. When I went to see what was going on, they had the TV paused.. just waiting for me to hear Elmo give me a special tribute. This is why I love them. The video also shows my new furniture.. such a big birthday present!!

Off to have lunch with my handsome husband. Being 29 ain't so bad afterall..


oh, and this makeup-less picture was taken of me this morning.. as I was coming downstairs for the SURPRISE! Luke's finger is in the way, but you get the idea..

taking a time out

I mentioned TIME OUT a couple of times in previous posts, but I realize that many of you are not LDS and probably have no idea what I mean when I say "I went to Time Out for Women" Let me explain. It's an all day seminar-- with inspiring speakers and musical numbers. The day is focused around motherhood, relationships, balancing your life, and the best part about it is NO children are allowed! My favorite performer (by far) was the beautiful and talented Hilary Weeks. She sang several songs that made me cry.. and I wish I could share them with you, particularly the song entitled If I Only Had Today. But it's not available on the internet... so go and buy her album. She's incredible. I did find a short little song of hers on YouTube.. she is so darling and so funny!

This is my third seminar (I attended twice in Spokane while Aaron was in law school.. and it kept me sane for those years!) This particular seminar in Vegas had a bonus session, which was ALL DAY on Friday as well. It was a small group of women and was conducted by the wonderful Sheri Dew (who is hilarious, real, and wonderful.) My sister Debbie drove down late Thursday night and the two of us were able to go on Friday, while her nanny Luiza watched all 6 crazy kids. It was heavenly! This is what we lived without all weekend---

On Saturday, Aaron "volunteered" to hold down the fort with the kids so Luiza could attend the seminar with us. Everyone survived!! I came home with energy and enthusiasm to be a better wife/mother/person. I am not going to list all of the things I learned, but I will share a couple of things that will remain with me.


First: I felt empowered by the thought that my best is good enough. I am constantly feeling like I am not doing enough (or doing it as well as it should be doing) and I am going to stop stressing about it and start taking pride in what I do, because I do A LOT. I need to focus more on what is important and leave everything else behind. One speaker said, "You will never hear yourself say, 'Man, I wish I wouldn't have gotten up early this morning to exercise.' Or I wish I wouldn't have read stories to my children.'" I need to DO the things that I know I won't regret and stop doing the things that I wish I wouldn't have spent so much time on-- which means I am going to be blogging, emailing, running errands and talking on the phone less.. go me!

Second: My time with my kids is precious. I want to and need to be PRESENT for them. I spend a lot of time WITH them, but I don't know if I am actually there when they are talking to me. I give them a lot of instructions, "do this, pick up that" but sometimes I am in such a rush to get things done that I don't enjoy the simple, quiet times. I know ALL mothers are guilty of this, but I came away feeling the need to hold them more, watch their expressions, laugh with them and be aware of how incredible they are. Because it just goes by too quickly!

Third: I am going to write a book. This is the first time I have ever had the idea. I have never really desired (or felt inspired) to write a book, but this was the main idea/thought that came to back to me during the quiet times in the seminar. I am going to work on it a little at a time, not stress about it, not worry about who is going to read it or if it will ever get published, but I am going to start writing.. The message of this conference (for me) was that our power of influence is greater than we ever imagined. I felt an overwhelming sense of strength-- that what I have yet to accomplish is great. Of course, I am not talking about running for president of the world or anything, but I couldn't help but come away with a sense of purpose and power. I love when I feel like this-- it makes me feel like the authentic me.. who I have always been! Feeling like this makes me want to get up earlier, work harder and love more. It also makes me very grateful for what I have already been given. And I have been given MUCH.

A wedding trip...

After our crazy move and month of traveling, I told myself (and my husband) that I wasn't going to do any more traveling for a while. I didn't want to miss Azy's wedding, but just felt like it was going to complicate my already complicated life. As soon as I told Aaron I wasn't going, he went behind my back and surprised me with a ticket to go by myself. And I am so glad he did! This is the email I sent Aaron (from my phone) just before take off.

As I was walking to my gate, I saw a woman traveling with her three teenage boys. They were goofing off and making her crazy. I watched her roll her eyes, but I knew she was having a good time. It made me excited for the future and for all the memories we have yet to make with our kids. I truly feel lucky to be their mom.... and your wife.

As I wait for my plane to take off, I am almost uncomfortable with the silence. I feel a need to tell someone to sit quietly or to clean their face.. I can't believe I am traveling without wet wipes! Part of me wishes the man sitting next to me would ask to play '20 questions' (the kind that turns into 200 questions.) I already miss you guys! But I'm smiling just remembering Ben's prayer this morning.. "Bless our blessings." You and the boys are my greatest blessings. Thanks for letting/making me go.

Love always, Jan

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

I was in Utah for less than 24 hours. But I think I spent my time wisely. Here are pictures from the quick trip--

After this picture was taken, my sisters asked if it was going on the blog. I told them, "Not if I don't look good." Obviously, I was lying. From left to right is Katie (Dave's wife), Amy (Scott's), Lori (sister- 7 years older), Kris (sis-6 years older), Moi, and curly haired Hailey (Amy's daughter, 2 years old). Not pictured: Deb and Cindy (2 sisters) and Rachel and Annette (2 sisters in law.) I love ALL of these girls and wished I lived closer so we could do lunch more often!!

2 hours after lunch, I headed up to the Sundance Resort in Provo Canyon for THE wedding..

Isn't the bride BEAUTY-full? We are all so happy for her! The scenery was oh-so gorgeous! I heart my friends... For years, we were all brunettes, but then I decided to go red. Now I finally belong again.

Aaron's sis "Codylicious" and her husband Jake at the reception. Jake played the guitar for Azy's wedding... even the walking down the isle song, which was awesome, BTW. It was fun to be able to hang with them, especially during such a short trip. Hill and I were husband-less, but she always makes such a great date!

After the reception, I headed to the Bateman household to have a sleepless sleepover. Thanks, Matt, for letting me borrow your wife! Ten years ago, Valerie and I were first time room-roommates... and it was good to finally share a bed again! We took pictures at 3 am--- but I am not posting them. I tried blackmailing Val, but she told me that if I showed them to the world then she wouldn't comment on my blog for 6 months. Frankly, her friendship is too important to me. Besides, this is my way of saying thanks to her for taking me to the airport at 5 am.

**I came home to a clean house and happy children. A big thanks to my sister-wife, Nat for watching my kids and, of course, to Aaron who knows me better than anyone else. He knew I needed that trip!

posting something to take attention away from the pee story...

I have to write SOMETHING to keep the urine story from being on the top of the page. Life gets crazier and busier and I don't think I can keep up. I literally haven't seen my kids in FOREVER (and it's been SO nice!)

What I've done in the past 5 days: I flew to SLC by myself, met my sisters for lunch, went to a BEAUTIFUL wedding, laughed with friends, stayed up way too late, flew home way too early the next morning, got ready for my sister Deb to come visit, went to 2 ALL DAY Time Out for Women Seminars-- without the kids!, went shopping for new furniture, bought beautiful couches, hired a paint guy, colored my hair dark, taught YW, and spoke at a fireside for youth.

What I haven't done: attended to my blog, read anyone elses, checked my email, cleaned my house, played with my kids (they've had cousins to occupy them), read scriptures, shaved my legs, exercised, called friends, or let my let my husband know HOW MUCH I appreciate him and all the time off he's given me..... but we all know he's not going to read it on my blog, so I better hurry to bed.

apparently others don't swig pee...

My family took lots of road trips when I was a girl. I have 9 siblings so traveling by plane was not an option, but our vacations were always "eventful". Nowadays, my parents would be arrested for packing 10 kids in one car, but back then, it wasn't a big deal. We never had car seats or buckled up. My mom would nurse the baby in the passenger's seat and while a toddler sat at her feet. The rest of us would sit on laps, make beds in the trunk, and one lucky person got to sit on the cooler in between my parents. This was the way to vacation cheap! What made the trips REALLY exciting is when the car would break down in the middle of nowhere! I have a few memories of being inside a mechanic shop on a hot summer day, anxiously waiting for our car to get fixed so we could get back on the road. A few times, we were lucky enough to stay in a hotel overnight because the mechanic took more than one day to fix our car.. talk about excitement! Looking back, I have no idea how my parents did what they did, but I am grateful to them for making life fun even though we didn't have a lot of money.

One of our favorite things to do on road trips was to stop at the gas station for a fountain drink. What seems funny about it now is that we would get ONE or TWO drinks for all of us to share.. We would discuss what drink to get and would often mix several flavors to accommodate those who couldn't agree. Once we were on the road, we would pass the drink back and forth between everybody in the car. Germs existed, but we were okay because this was FAMILY Germs.

With so many kids traveling, making bathroom stops was just not possible. If they HAD to, my parents would pull over at a restroom, but if it was a boy and it wasn't #2, they would have to pee in a bottle. One of my brothers (whom we will not name because he gets embarrassed easily :) seemed to have to go to the bathroom every 10 minutes... so he frequently found something else to pee in. Sometimes this included the empty Big Gulp cup.

While on a road trip (when I was about 10-ish) I asked for someone to pass me the soda-- and as I took a big swig, I realized that the drink tasted very unfamiliar. It was warm, salty, and disgusting. I knew right away that instead of the drink, I was given the discard cup. That's right, I had just swallowed urine. The real drink was quickly passed to me and I believe I swallowed it all in one breath, trying to rinse my mouth. After about ten minutes, I was over it... because that's what you do when you're ten, right?

During our wedding luncheon, our families gave Aaron and I gifts as each of our siblings told stories about us growing up. It was fun to stroll down memory lane. Aaron recieved pillows from his sister followed by a story of him falling hard on his behind while bowling with his family. His mom gave him a Kermit the Frog memoir and told about the time he was found nursing his Kermit the Frog doll after he had seen his mom feed the new baby...

Each of my 9 siblings stood up and told stories about me... and Tim, my little brother with the small bladder, got up with a two liter of Mountain Dew and told the story of when he peed in a cup and I drank it out of a straw. Oh, sorry, Tim. I wasn't going to name names, but what's done is done. It really did happen and I lived to tell the story.

Tag-O-Rama

During my homelessness era, I was tagged a couple of times. And I take these things seriously :) Here we go.
________________________________________________________________

For Ashley:

8 TV shows I love to watch

The Office

American Idol
Super Nanny

Biggest Loser
Sesame Street (I will watch with or w/o my kids)
Last Comic Standing

The Bachelor (that's right, I said it)
House (my husband's fave)

8 Favorite restaurants

This is a hard one for me. I am not a fancy restaurant type of girl.

Anything Greek! Yum!
Subway
Cafe Rio

Olive Garden

In-N-Out
The Sconecutter
The Cheesecake Factory
Pier 49 Pizza

8 Things that happened yesterday

Washed about 8 loads of laundry.
I took a friend to a doctor's appt.

Read stories to my kids and we giggled our way through.

Shopped for Halloween costumes!

Got a couple of quotes from professionals to paint our house. Ugh.
Made dinner.. (Lasagna, homemade breadsticks and a yummy salad)
Packed for my 24 hour trip to Utah

Kissed my husband

8 things I am looking forward to
Having my house in order

Seeing my sisters

General Conference
Halloween

Having cousins on the "other" side.. finally!
Going to Time Out for Women this coming weekend.
Paying off student loans
Retirement

8 things on my wish list

Having my house in order. Did I already say that?

Going on a long, tropical vacation

Another baby

a Maid

Living closer to our families

Millions of dollars

A back yard (with an actual yard)
Lasic Surgery

8 people I'm tagging

Annie T.
Sheri S.
Amelia D.
Nova N.
Valerie G.
Cindy C.
Jenn W.
Brooke R.

__________________________________________________________

This one's for you, Missy.

3 Joys:
(I am not doing my family because that's so boring obvious.)

1. A long, hot bubble bath... with a new razor in hand and good music in the background.

2. Waking up in the morning and seeing the sunrise! I have a great view from my front porch and can't wait to get up in the morning!

3. Being at HOME with my children... I love doing the simple things, playing games, singing silly songs, reading stories. This is my JOY.

3 Fears:

1. Not being adequate.. not doing enough for my husband/kids/parents/siblings/friends.

2. I am not afraid of death itself, but I am afraid of dying and leaving my children behind. If our little family died all together, that would be okay-- but I am completely afraid of having someone else raise my kids for me.

3. Drowning, burning to death, getting kidnapped, raped or killed. Sorry to bring it up, but I had a hard time coming up with #3.

3 Goals:

1. Exercise 4-5 a week.
2. Get my house looking normal.. and by that, I mean furniture in the rooms, paint on the walls, etc.
3. No Gossiping!

3 Current obsessions:

1. Cooking! If you are ever frustrated with cooking, go an ENTIRE month without a kitchen. It works wonders! I seriously get excited to make dinner! Wahoo!

2. Reading.

3. Blogging. Most definitely an obsession. I almost went crazy there for a month without a computer. But it CAN be done! I read 5 books (all about 400 pages) in 3 weeks without a computer.


3 Random or surprising facts about yourself

1. I take forever to eat string cheese... because I like it in REALLY thin, minuscule pieces. It's more about the enjoyment while eating than the actual eating itself. I hate it when my boys chow on it-- what a waste of a good time!

2. When I close my eyes at night, all I see is furniture flashing before my eyes. And then I stress about whether or not it will fit in at our house. It's so annoying! Why I am dreaming/having nightmares about furniture??

3. When I was in elementary school, I made fun of a boy who wore cabbage patch girl shoes. I stood by while some boys kicked him on the playground.. I feel terrible about it and would love to apologize if I knew how to get in touch with him!

3 people I tag:
1. Katie C.
2. Danalin F.
3. Kristen B.


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Tagged by Nicole:

ABC TAG:

A = ADVOCATE FOR: Homeschooling.

B = BEST FEATURE: eyelashes ?

C = COULDN'T DO WITHOUT: laughter

D = DREAMS AND DESIRES: Being content with life. Feeling peace.

E = ESSENTIAL ITEM: toothbrush

F= FAVORITE PAST TIME: playing games

G = GOOD AT: making friends

H = HAVE NEVER TRIED: escargot.

I = IF I HAD A MILLION DOLLARS: I would finally be happy.

J = JUNKIE FOR: microwave popcorn, late night girl talks, comments on my blog, chick flicks, pebble ice.

K = KINDRED SPIRIT: Bev Olson (and possibly Anne Shirley :)

L = LITTLE KNOWN FACT ABOUT ME: I ALWAYS separate the silverware when I load the dishwasher. This is surprising because I am not an organized freak. I usually welcome chaos-- so why the silverware each in there own compartment? I am not sure, but my kids love it because it makes their job (unloading) much easier.

M = MEMORABLE MOMENT: my wedding ceremony

N = NEVER AGAIN WILL I: accidentally drink urine.

O = OCCASIONAL INDULGENCE: spray on tanning.

Q = QUOTE: "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us most. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."

~Maryanne Williamson

R = REASON TO SMILE: my boys.

S = SORRY ABOUT: Being blunt, outspoken... and saying things that hurt others' feelings.

T = TAG SOME FRIENDS: Val, Rae, Nat, Heidi.

U = UNINTERESTED IN: the Twilight books.

V = VERY SCARED OF: Serial killers.

W = WORST HABIT: exaggerating. not being tactful. being disorganized. not being grateful for what I have.

X = X MARKS MY IDEAL VACATION SPOT: The Caribbean

Y = YESTERYEAR DECADE OF CHOICE: 1980’s- It was a good time.. Blue eyeshadow, Charles in Charge, acid washed jeans. Classic era.

Z = ZODIAC SIGN: Libra

______________________________________________________

Marci-- I know you tagged me with the High School questions, but I am "NOT GUNNA DO IT." I have already said enough about WJHS.. no more, no how.

Not that anyone ACTUALLY cares...

But there are several (never-been-seen :) short video clips on our other blog. They're NOT interesting enough to put on this blog (as if I have a worthy meter or something) but either way, they are over there.. just in case some of you happen to have a free minute or two..

Here's the short list of things you'll miss if you decide not to check it out.

1. I captured a bit of our living room furniture in the background of the star wars clip. Don't get to excited, all you interior designers, out there. We still have nothing to brag about.

2. Three monkeys jumping on a hotel bed.

3. Zack in his super nerdy swimming goggles.

4. A crazy man chasing a wild pig at the horse ranch.

5. Somewhere in the mix of the bobble head video, you hear Ben say something to Luke about not squishing his WIENER... and then you'll hear me scold him for saying such things on camera. Off camera, anything is game. But hello-- doesn't he realize I have an IMAGE to uphold here?

ENTER at your own risk, I am not making any promises.

Love/Hate Relationships.

I haven't really been in the mood to blog the last couple of days, but I just wanted to put something up here to let everyone know that my husband have made up and we're NOT getting divorced. Phew! I try hard to hate him, but it never works! He is a great guy and he makes me laugh everyday. Today in church, while one of my good friends was speaking (Hi Nat! You did a great job!) Aaron leaned over in sweetly whispered in my ear, "If you ever leave me, I am totally going after her." Of course, I cracked up because-- it's so inappropriate and he's just so off the wall. I wished him luck and let him know that I would be cool with bringing her in as a Sister-wife if her husband ever died. I figure, there are already Mormon Polygamy rumors anyway, we might as well give 'em something to talk about.

_____________________________________________________

Another thing I have been meaning to document is the LOVE/HATE game we play with Zack. He's has known what these words mean for some time now and uses them in the right context. It's so funny what he says and how passionate he is about what he likes and doesn't like!

The other day when I was telling the boys a bedtime story and happened to be laying on Zack's all-time favorite truck pillow. He is a little obsessive about it, and even though I was in labor with him for 13 hours (and continue to keep him alive) he doesn't think I am worthy enough to lay on his beloved pillow. He said, "Don't lay MY truck pillow!" I love to see him so feisty so I teased him a little bit by saying, "But Zack, I LOVE your truck pillow." He was mad and yelled, "Mom HATES my truck pillow! You hate it, mom! You HATE it!" We all started laughing and so now he thinks it's funny to say he hates everything (especially dinner when he doesn't want to eat!!) And the past few weeks in church, when it's time to go to nursery to play with his friends, he looks at us and says, "But I HATE nursery! I hate those kids!" I know it doesn't do any good to laugh, but it sure is funny coming from such a little guy!

The boys (but especially Aaron) started playing the love/hate game with Zack. If you say something, no matter what it is, he will say the opposite.. and it's hilarious. I was able to get a quick video of him after church today, but it doesn't do Aaron's version justice. I will have to record that another time. This is my cute chocolate faced little boy, playing the love/hate game. My favorite part about the video is that I caught his EYEBROW RAISING on film... it's his new trademark when he says something that he thinks is funny..

And just so you know, it took me about 6 hours to upload this measly video on youtube. Our internet service is SO slow! But I can't complain because we're not paying for it. I wasn't here when the phone guy came to hook it up so we're using someone else's wireless connection, but it sucks. It never pays to steal anything.. (a lesson I only learned today.)

He loves me. He loves me not.

I recently told my seven year old son I loved him (I tend to do that every once in a while.)

Ben quickly said, "Mom! I already knew that you loved me!!"

I acted surprised, "How did you already know?"

He rolled his eyes and said,

"Because you've never said that you DIDN'T love me."

My husband thought Ben's comment was genius and said, "Now THAT's a man talking! If we tell you we love you, then we do. If there ever comes a time when we change our minds, then we'll be sure to let you know."

THIS is the very reason why I hate men. Why do they have to be so emotionally stable and secure with themselves? It makes us women look stupid. Women may be from Venus, but Men are heartless robots. All they need is food and sex. Just because we would like an occasional compliment doesn't make us needy and insecure! I may sound like I am MAD, but that's only because I am.

Last night before going to bed, I had a lighthearted conversation with my husband that went a little like this:

Me: So, I posted that old Ricks college elections video on my blog today.

Him: What video? What blog?

Me: The skit with the tarantula and the pie in my face.

Him: cool. (which means the same as, "let's end the conversation HERE.")

Me: I wrote about how much it meant to me that you came to the big showing.. and how I think that was probably the night that you fell in love with me.

Him: Are you sure that wasn't some other guy? I don't think I went. (he's dead serious, people.)

Me: Oh come on! You were crazy about me and wouldn't have missed it for the world.

Him: I don't remember anything about that night.

Me: You don't remember seeing that video, the one where the crowd screamed because a guy licked all the way up my face?

Him: Oh, maybe. Wasn't there a problem with the sound?

Me: No. Not if you mean when my speech was cut off by the U2 song (starting to get annoyed.)

Him: Maybe it wasn't the sound. I just think I didn't have a good seat for the show and couldn't see your skit very well.

Me: You were sitting right next to me, you big jerk!

Him: What?

Me: You have told me plenty of times that you fell in love with me during elections week.

Him: (shrugging) I guess I could have said that.

Me: UGH.

Him: What is wrong with you?

Me: Nothing was wrong with me until I started talking to you.

Him: What do you want me to say?

Me: Nothing. I will just pull out my old book of letters that you wrote me before you started hating me.

Him: [Laughing hysterically-- but at me, definitely not with me.]

Me: Just so you know, you're not getting any tonight.

Him: Do you want me to read our blog? Would that make you happy?

Me: No, and it's MY blog, not ours.

Him: [still laughing-- while I roll over and turn out the light.]

___________________________________________________________

Why are men so difficult to deal with? Seriously. I am not saying I am a fan of same sex marriages, but I bet they have a lot fewer headaches over communication issues. Or maybe it's just me.

Historical Day.

We'd like to announce that our Star Wars bobble head set is complete! C-3pO arrived in the mail yesterday and we finally have ALL 18. I realize that this is practically an impossible task, but when you work together as a family, you can accomplish ANYTHING, especially if it's really important! Priorities are priorities...

We'd like to thank all those who helped us reach our goal. To the hard workers at McDonald's who dug through their pile of Happy Meal toys to find those last few toys that we still needed. To the patient cars behind us in the drive-thru who never honked or flipped us off. To Rachel Simpson (and her kids) who gave us the Ewok when we so desperately needed him. And how can we ever forget Ebay? To the wonderful lady who sold us C-3PO for more than the price of a Happy Meal itself.. (what a business woman!) It only took her a WEEK to ship the measly envelope, all the way from Arizona. We couldn't have done it without you people! And last but not least, I'd like to say thanks to the man who didn't think we could do it-- who never had faith in us and who told us that it wasn't worth our time and money. We proved him wrong and it has never felt so good! *sticking my tongue out at my husband*

And here's my over-achievers posing behind their collection.. I found them this morning with all their bobble heads in ALPHABETICAL ORDER.. Apparently, it makes them so much easier to find if they're alphabetized.



I have a video of the boys doing their best impersonations of the characters (Zack knows everyone by name) but it's taking too long to upload and I have other important tasks to do today.. like folding laundry while watching yesterday's recorded Oprah. The Olympic team and their gold medals + American Idol David Cook. Better grab my box of Kleenex.

Q&A

While I was homeless/internet-less, I received quite a few emails asking all kinds of questions, mostly having to do with blogging. I sat down this afternoon to answer them individually, but decided to post just the answers for the world wide web to see.. just in case you were wondering too. Just scroll down to the question that applies to you..

1. How do you make your picture collages?

Most of my photo collages are made with a FREE, super user-friendly software called Photoscape. I am so happy to see that SO MANY people are using this program, because it's DA BOMB. It's simple and allows you do to lots of cool things with your pictures (cropping, borders, text, etc.) However, I must tell you that if you are going to create a collage, you really need to resize it after the pictures are in... If you ever plan on printing your blog into a book, these collages won't be large enough to print.. You will be really frustrated when uploading all your cute collages, but not being able to include them in your book. You will either have to create them again (and make them big so the quality is better) or you'll have to upload each of your pictures separately for the book-- either way, it's going to take you more time and work Plus, if you're shrinking 5-10 shots into one picture, the rest of us want to click on it and see it enlarged, like so.. (here's where you click on the picture to see it enlarged.)

This is HOW you make your collages bigger: In the PAGE option in Photoscape, on the top right hand corner, there is a SAVE and EDIT button, before you edit your collage (where you add text, etc.) click on the little walnut tab below the edit button-- this will give you the option to resize your entire collage and still keep the picture quality. I always do mine at 300% If you wait to resize it in the EDIT tab, it will stretch your pictures and change the quality.. Another tip is to make it large AFTER you've put the pictures in their place.. it makes them easier to maneuver (and to see if they are centered, etc.)

2. Do you think Picasa is user-friendly, why did you stop using it?

It's still a good program and I use it every once in a while. When you have a ton of photos and don't want to drag them in a collage seperately, it's great. For those of you who don't care about cutesy borders or text, Picasa is pretty self-explanitory. It's quick and does the work for you, for example:


3. Would you recommend Blurb to print your book?

Even though I had a huge headache with Blurb, I would most definitely do it again. I don't know of a better (or cheaper) software, so until then, I will am sticking with them. I am not currently doing a 2008 book. Instead, I decided to work on a book for years prior to blogging. It's more pictures and less writing (since I can't remember the details of the events two years ago.. sad.) When I printed 2007's book, it was 200 pages and over 900 pictures. I believe having picture collages helped the uploading process...

4. How did you do your Label Cloud?

Blogger doesn't give you an option to do a label cloud (they automatically post in a long list on the side bar.. it doesn't look very flattering, especially when you have lots of labels.) But you can easily create a cloud by changing your HTML code. The instructions are long, so I am not going to post them, but if you want a copy of the code, email me and I will send them to you (janetleeshumway at gmail dot com.) Before you can install this code, you need to label your posts. Once their are all labeled, you can install your cloud and change the colors to whatever matches your blog. Like I said, you have to be willing to play around with your HTML code.

5. Do you really track those who visit your site?

Absolutely. But it's not like I care if you visit my site a couple of times a day.. Bloggers actually LIKE other people to read their blogs, even if they don't know these people. We all blog hop and I don't label you as crazy if you stop by often. The tracking system that I use ISN'T very user-friendly, but it's better than nothing. You will have to add an HTML code to your blog as a new gadget and then go back to Statcounter to see who's looking at your blog. Some of you are freaking about that other people can see when you check their blog and how often you do it, but I don't think it's a big deal... Don't let a little tracker keep you from reading your favorite blogs. If you have a blog, I would advise you to get a tracker... because it's like you're spying on the people who are spying on you. Ha, ha, ha.

Also, Google Reader is a great tool to track your favorite blogs. Once you subscribe to a blog, it will send you a feed with their updates.. this way, you don't have to visit each site individually. It's a huge time saver for me (although I still have 400 posts to read from this past month from other bloggers.. there will be a day when I will feel caught up!)

6. Sorry I never have time to comment.

I know this isn't a question, but I am going to address it anyway. Obviously you have time to comment or you wouldn't be taking time to read the blog in the first place. Commenting takes all of two seconds. I personally do not comment on every post that I read, but if I regularly visit a blog, I try to comment to let them know that I stopped by, I read what they had to say and I either related in some way or thought it was interesting. This is common courtesy, people. It's also very awkward to run into someone you don't know, say for instance at the library, who knows all about you and you don't recognize them at ALL. I hate to point you out (MARCI!) but you still never comment, so I feel justified. It makes the relationship awkward because it's totally one-sided. Commenting and saying something is only flattering to the person writing the blog (even if you happen to disagree with what they say.) They are not going to think you are a weirdo for commenting. Don't feel guilty for reading someone else's blog (unless you are neglecting your kids all day :) The only thing you SHOULD feel guilty about is coming back day after day and not commenting! If you don't comment because you don't have a blog of your own, that's understandable. But when you DO get a blog of your own, you will know how vulnerable you feel when you post something-- you see that lots of people read it-- and you don't get any comments. It ain't good for your self esteem. So, if you read something and find it funny or relate-able, tell them so, for heaven's sake! It's the right thing to do. If Jesus was blogging, he would totally comment.

7. Why don't you answer my email or comment on my blog anymore?

Because I was homeless and didn't have a computer. I really feel bad about leaving some of you hanging. I realize that I have a home and a computer now, but I still have to unpack (and take care of three kids!) My husband already thinks I am on the computer enough as it is, so a girl can only do so much! Please forgive me. I will try to get back with you, ASAP... and if you start using my name as a "5-letter-word" at your house because I never return your email, I will only find it funny. (Hi Nova! Seriously, that was some good stuff!)

8. When are you going to post pictures of your home?

When I want to. Gosh! I am still in boxes. I just got dressers in the bedrooms yesterday. If you are waiting for pictures to be hung and the house to be painted, you are going to be waiting until next year. If you want to see it that badly, come and visit. If not, it's gonna be a while. Like 2010.

9. Are you Homeschooling this year?

You better believe it. Although, we are currently doing more unpacking and playing and less schooling. I am definitely stressed about it and I even considered putting the older boys in school.. for about 5 minutes. Then I told myself to relax, get situated and not worry about what they aren't learning. They are good kids and they will be fine. My plans for homeschooling this year include music lessons and Spanish... and, of course, lots of reading.

10. When are you going to have another baby?

As soon as I can get/stay pregnant. We've been trying for what seems like forever. I have had three mini-miscarriages this past year, all ending in the first trimester (my last one happened in the middle of our move.. talk about going through a lot all at once!) I really want another baby, but I am [surprisingly] doing well. I think I have accepted the fact that if I can't have any more kids, I would be just fine. I don't see any point to wish for something that isn't possible right now. That doesn't mean we aren't still trying, but I have been blessed immensely and don't want to seem ungrateful for all that I have.

11. When are you coming up to Utah again?

In a week. One of my BFF's is getting married and I am flying in without the kids for a mini vacation... it will be a quick trip. Hope to see you at the wedding reception because that's what I will be doing while I am there.

12. What are you going to be for Halloween?

Are you kidding me? As if I would tell you! Yes, we have our costumes planned out and yes, it's gonna be fabulous, but I am not giving away any details. Let's just say that The Force will be with us.


That's all I have time for, Amigos. I've gotta get dinner on the table... Until next time.

Trying to be like Jesus...

I walked passed the boys playing with their legos and overheard Luke praising his older brother for the cool thing he had just built. Luke said, "That is so awesome! Man, you know how to do EVERYTHING!"

Ben's humble response: "Not everything, Luke. I do NOT know how to RAISE THE DEAD!"

It's always good to acknowledge your limitations. But knowing Ben, he will be working on that one from now until next Easter.

You've had a birthday shout HOORAY!

Happy Birthday to 2 very special MEN in our lives!

My little brother, Kevin and Aaron's dad (AKA Stan-the-Man) are both celebrating birthdays! And it just so happens that I have a picture of them together. Why, you ask? Well, during the summer, Kevin was an EFY counselor in Nauvoo, and Aaron's parents were on a church history vacation tour. It just so happens that they attended the same sacrament meeting in the same church on the same Sunday... all the way in Illinois. I love that my brother has his arm wrapped around Brandy-- because that is SO Kevin! He is such a fun, friendly guy. I will never forget Kevin coming to a wedding reception where all my in laws were sitting at a table. (He had met them before, but it had been several years.) I was about to go and introduce him to Aaron's siblings, but he beat me to the table and made himself comfortable. I just sat back and watched him chat away... He made his way around the table and ended up standing behind Aaron's brother Brett while he was talking to my sis in law KT. I watched as he started massaging Brett's shoulders in the middle of the conversation. I just had to crack up because this is so typical of my family-- but not so much Aaron's family. I am sure they liked Kev and all (because who wouldn't?) but I will never forget Brett's face during the massage.. it was like, "Who is this guy and why is he giving me a back rub??" And this is why I love Kev. He is SUCH a good guy. So listen up all you single ladies because he is still on the market.. He's smart, talented, an excellent cook, a great singer (in the BYU choir) a spiritual giant, he speaks fluent Chinese, he's nice, friendly and isn't afraid of girls. Why he's not married yet is beyond me... but I have a feeling he's a hot item at BYU, so you better act fast! We love you, Kevie and hope you had a great birthday!!



Now, moving on to my #1 Father in Law... Stan is my kind of people. I made a list of things I love about him last year on his birthday, but you know that I can always say more! Stan is one of the most amusing people to talk to. He knows everything about every subject and loves a good conversation. I always enjoy talking to (and debating with) him on various subjects and often keep him up way past his bedtime because we just can't stop talking! I love it! I told him last time we visited that I need to start writing down his quotes because they are totally off the wall and completely hilarious. He will probably hate me for sharing this, but I just gotta.. I want it written down for my posterity. During one of our intense conversations with both of Aaron's parents, I said something about why I don't get men's fascination with breasts. He (obviously had a strong opinion about it and said the following sentence with lots of enthusiasm) "To women boobs are just flabby body parts, but to men, they're MAGIC." I was shocked.. because he was serious.. but I couldn't stop laughing. Now, every time I hear the song, "oh, oh, oh, it's Magic..." I just can't help but think of Stanley. I really love being around him and feel inspired by his enthusiasm for life! I will never forget living with them in AZ for a couple of months before we started law school. He was a Primary teacher in church and would get SO pumped up about teaching a simple lesson to a handful of 7 year olds. He would prepare for hours and say things like, "I am going to change these kids lives!!" He has so much energy and wants to take on the world and I love that about him. I also remember him trying to get some overflowing trash into one garbage can and he ended up having to climb up on top and jump on it to get it down. After he finished he rubbed his hands on his pants and looked at me with a big smile and said, "I bet you've never seen a 55 year old do THAT!" And right he was. There are a lot of things he does that amaze me and I feel very lucky to have his example in my life.

Aaron and his dad have a very special relationship. I realize that the reason why Aaron is such a good dad is because he has a great example to follow. I love seeing them together.. They come from a long posterity of good men and we have three little ones that (hopefully) will follow in their footsteps. How grateful I am for great men in our lives! We love you, Dad and hope you have a nice, relaxing birthday! Wish we could be in AZ to celebrate with you (but not really.)

Opportunity Avenue

I am very pleased with our new home, despite my earlier complaints of having to paint and decorate. The house fits us well, and we are thrilled to finally have a place to call home. After 9 moves (in 8 years of marriage) we are ready to settle down and unpack our boxes.

I don't think I was very picky while shopping for a house- but I did have three main things that I was looking for...

#1-- a laundry room on the same floor as the bedrooms. CHECK. No more hauling laundry up and down the stairs. Hallelujah.

#2-- a killer pantry.. HALF a CHECK. My kitchen is wonderful, but my pantry is just okay. Without a basement for food storage, we are going to have to be creative with where we keep our 2,000 pounds of wheat.

And #3-- a radical street name. No CHECK at all. I am not unhappy with our new address, but it's nothing special. I drove my husband nuts when I wanted to hear the street name before knowing how many bedrooms the house had. But it could have turned out much worse. We drove by a few houses where I said, "I don't care if it's a palace inside, I will NOT live on that street." (For example: Elkalaka Road, Black Wash Way, Heavy Gorge Ave, Klamath Ct, or Sankaty Circle.) I just don't want to be spitting in someone's face every time I give them my address, let alone explain that I don't live in a circle with a bunch of skanks.

On the other hand, there were several homes that I would have LOVED to purchase solely looking at the address. I would even consider pitching a tent in between a couple of homes on some of these streets. My favorites were:

Kindness Crest, Friendly Court, or Amigo Cir
(I know I would just love my neighbors)

Scholar St
(great for homeschooling brainiac boys)

Liberation Dr

Heavenly View Dr

Mako Point

Oasis Cir

Real Quiet St
(where your neighbors aren't just quiet, they're REAL quiet)

Dream Valley St

Opportunity Ave

Longevity Dr

Elite Street

Lovett Dr

Goddess Way

I was really disappointed there wasn't a single house for sale on Goddess Way, but I'm sure if I lived there, I wouldn't want to move either. Those address labels would have been awesome.

Our kids had fun house shopping with us, too. There were several street names that they loved. For instance: Abracadabra Ave, Scorpion Ct, Safari Creek Dr, Shoot Out Pl, Crocodile Ave, Meteor Shower St, Tortoise Ct, Marco Polo Ave. How easy would it be for a little kid to remember their address when they lived on Abracadabra Ave? Spelling it would be a challenge, though.

Anyway, I guess our address is so-so. It's not repulsive, but it's not anything to brag about. It still has to be spelled out for the operator and that's a bummer. What I really want to know is WHO comes up the street names? If you think the ones listed above are made up, you are wrong. They are ALL actual street names in Vegas.. (they could have been worse, living in Sin City and all...) Do you agree with me that a street name is a deciding factor in purchasing a house or do you side with my husband who ignores me when I tell him that we would be so much happier living on Liberation Drive? Do you actually care what your address is?

ps. If you didn't get an email with our updated info, then we must not love you
(or we don't have your current email address)

Yippee-I-O-Ki-Yay!

We always love going to visit Aaron's parents... even if they do happen to live in the middle of nowhere! The White Mountains in Northern Arizona are growing on us, though. This is our third time visiting in the past year, so that says something. When you drive to a place that is not on the way to anything- then you must really love the people you're visiting! And we do!

• We LOVED going to this horse ranch and riding their tame, mellow horses. Our boys loved the birds, goats, and the WILD PIG! Zack realized that if he stood right in front of the horses, they would try to eat his hair. He would giggle every time and then move closer so they could get a better bite.
  

• Our favorite thing in AZ (besides the parents, of course) is their BATHROOM. They have a humongous 2 person shower, but it could fit more like 5. Not that anyone would want to shower with 4 other people. (I'm just sayin'.) Next to the shower is a dry heat sauna... The boys had fun posing for a few naked shots through the window.
  

• One of my favorite memories from the trip was during the drive. I LOVE being stuck in the car with Aaron because we always have the best conversations. This particular road trip stands out in my mind because I HONESTLY thought the sun was following me. Every time I adjusted things or switched positions, it was piercing me in the eyes AGAIN. Little did I know that Aaron was maneuvering the mirrors (electronically) to reflect the sun RIGHT in my face. He was laughing inside just watching me squirm... and it was especially funny for him because I actually thought the sun was in love with me. Of course, when I realized it was HIM the whole time, I cracked up but only after I slugged him. hard.
  

Labor Day 2008

This weekend has been a frustrating one for me. I was so excited to move into our house (and believe me, I am so grateful that we're here.) But moving can be such a PAIN. I have just felt overwhelmed with everything that there is to do... unpack, paint, buy furniture, do endless loads of laundry (but we have yet to move the dressers in the bedrooms so I can't exactly put away the clothes..) And I have been such a mean mom. As cute as my kids are, they have totally gotten on my nerves! Kids can be so annoying while unpacking toys they haven't seen in a month.. they want to play with EVERYTHING right NOW--- their toy room is literally a pile of puzzles, games, swords, legos, etc, etc, etc. Anyway, ever since we've moved in, I have been on the verge of tears. My husband has NO idea what to do with me because after all I should be happy (he did just buy me a house and all!) But I have just felt like GROWLING anytime anyone talks to me. Last night I went to bed feeling frustrated and overwhelmed.

At 3 AM this morning I got a phone call. It was my dear friend Jane who is 9 months pregnant. I answered it expecting to hear her say that her water broke and she was headed to the hospital. Instead, she was sobbing and said her husband had a seizure in the middle of the night and that something was terribly wrong. I threw on some clothes (put on two mismatching shoes) and drove over to her house. The paramedics had already arrived and were helping her husband down the stairs to head to the hospital. He was in severe pain because he had fractured and dislocated his shoulder during the seizure. I stayed with their 2 year old son, Vaughn, as they rushed to the hospital. I tried going to sleep on their couch, but I couldn't. I laid there feeling very grateful that Rick was going to be okay and feeling very ashamed that I have been such an ungrateful BRAT.. especially to the people who matter the most to me.

I didn't sleep at all. Soon little Vaughn was awake and we were playing puzzles and reading books. Jane and Rick arrived home a little after 7 am. I drove home in tears and crawled in bed with all three of my boys and squeezed them tight. How grateful I am to have them in my life! Today was such a wonderful, peaceful day because we were able to do everything as a family. My house is just as chaotic as it was yesterday, but chaos is okay.. especially if that means we are all alive and healthy. The house will eventually be unpacked. The toys will get back on the shelves sooner or later. I may be tired and exhausted, but today I realized what a privilege it is to clean up after, cook for and be around the ones that I love.