JACOBSON FAMILY

Isn't maturity supposed to make us smarter?

2010-10-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

The scriptures teach that we should be like unto a little child. There is an often quoted phrase, "Out of the mouth of babes." Well, here is one.

Last year, liberal voters in California fought for a change in what was to be accepted as a marriage. The law states that marriage is between a man and a woman. Many voters wanted to change that to allow same-sex relationships to be recognized as legal and binding. This was presented in the form of "Prop 8". The First Presidency admonished all members of the church, one of the very few times I have ever heard the Brethren take a political stand, and fight against this Prop to protect the sanctity of marriage. As you can imagine, this sparked many conversations among the children and especially when there were many liberals, even same-sex couples, at their school. Karsten and I tried to be as open and frank as we could with the kids.

It was amazing to me how the litle ones reacted. Let me clarify. When I say "little ones" I am referring to the younger ones of the whole clan. These "little ones" ranged from age 5 to age 10. They are too young to understand the ramifications of this bill. As far as they are concerned, they see the physical differences between a man and a woman, they have the example of their parents, and what they have been taught. Their understanding of the "facts of life" are very simple and elementary. There must be a man and a woman. No questions asked. Why then do adults, who are supposed to be more mature, have such difficulty with this basic concept? I loved Elder Packer's talk at conference when he gave the example of the child telling the teacher how to tell the sex of the ktiten. ". . . there are those today who not only tolerate but advocate voting to change laws that would legalize immorality, as if a vote would somehow alter the designs of God’s laws and nature. A law against nature would be impossible to enforce. For instance, what good would a vote against the law of gravity do?"

But, I stray from what I originally wanted to write. Logan, my 10 year old, was very confused with the issue. As only he can, he asked, "Mom, if there are two males trying to get married, who decides which one wears the dress?" Very plainly and simply put. As young and naieve as he is, Logan still gets it. Oh that we could all be as little children.

Age, experience, technology, education. All important in their own right. But when it clouds our understanding and makes us question the simple laws of nature, we are the dumb ones. Not the children. They get it!!!

What is a friend?

2010-10-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

My favorite, almost, 15 year old and I were talking today about friends and what constitutes a friend. There are "church" friends, "school" friends, "going-out" friends, "talking on the phone" friends, "see every once in a while" friends, and there are your "confide everything and will always be there no matter what" friends. I'm sure, by definition, one of these is an acquaintance but does anyone even use that word any more? Kind of like the word "love". So over used it has lost its true significance.

For example, if you take the "facbeook" definition of friend, anyone that you invite to share in your daily ramblings is considered a "friend". I'm beginning to think that with facebook, texting, etc. the definition of "friend" has evolved into someone we can share whatever we want as long as we are concealed behind technology and emotion is removed from the equation.

My favorite, almost, fifteen year old asked me who my friends are. A valid question. She has been noticing a separation between herself and some of her friends. Different schools and interests are a few of the contributing factors. Part of growing up. People fade in and out of life. But who, then, is a true friend? Are their different levels of friends?

I will admit. According to many definitions of a friend, I am a terrible friend. I am not one that will call and chat on the phone. I don't spend a lot of time on facebook. I don't text. I don't call people up and arrange to meet them or spend time together. I don't send out many e-mails. I am terrible at sending cards, whether birthday or holday. I forget everyone' birthdays. I guess you would say I don't have any friends.

For me, the word "friend" is special. Let me give you an example of my favorite friends. These friends are my confidants. The ones I can share my joys and sorrows and I know the info, if confidential, isn't going any further than their individual brain cells. On the flip side, they are ones that can share with me and I don't feel like I have to share with them. I am never judged by what I say or feel. I am never judged for my mistakes. The relationship doesn't change because of lack of communication, distance of location, health, or other factors. These special friends are my family. My husband, my siblings, my parents. I love these friends.

What would I then call all those other wonderful people in my life that I talk to and spend occasional shared moments? That is a good question. By defnition, they are more than an acquaintance. I need a new word.

Emotion. I think that is what keeps me from labeling all as friends. Maybe that's it. I have "emotional" friends and "non-emotional" friends. No, that doesn't sound right. Yet, it does have a ring of truth to it. I guess a friend to me is someone who truly knows me and one I have allowed to truly know me. Hmmm. That is something to think about.

Well, however we all label all those people that are important to us, here is a big "thank you" to all of you. Even if I don't talk to you forever or forget birthdays, etc. I'm thankful for all those important people in my life that influence me in some way.

Yesterday's thin is tomorrow's fat

2010-10-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

I'm tired of being fat. "Fat?" you say, "Oh, give me a break. Fat between your ears."

No, really!!! I can prove it.

If I look at a doughnut, I gain weight. If I sniff a brownie, I put on weight. If I even THINK about a cookie, I gain weight. Dang it!!!! There goes 5 pounds. Let me show you what is the "new" sexy.

Okay, so in REAL life, I thought this person was pretty slender. Obviously, not enough.

Just when you thought lipo was enough. Now you have to not only shave your legs, exfoliate said legs, buff them, oil them, and then if you even THINK you can put these pants on, guess again. You need a shoe horn!

Are legs supposed to go into those things? Oh, I get it. The shirt covers the upper part of the body that can't fit in those things. I now understand the "pants down around the lower butt" look.

I personally like the look of that painting years ago of the voluptuous woman looking over her back at the camera. She has "meat" on her bones, has a few roles, and is still sexy and happy (I'd search for that picture but I'm too scared of what will come up).

How come those of us who have had a real life meaning having had kids, not exercising hours in the gym, no chef, no money to have all body parts altered, etc. are considered "fat" and not sexy or desirable?

Well, I flip my nose at all of you's. AAAWWWW, who am I kidding. I fight the bulge, deprive myself of a few calories, hit the gym more than is healthy, pinch my fat, and wish for smaller numbers. I'm going to dish up another bowl of ice cream.

Mental entertainment!

2010-09-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

I read one of my sister's blogs (you're missing out if you haven't read it) about books and the garbage that writers feel is necessary for the "enrichment" of their masterpieces. And, let's not forget the visual plethora that continually competes for our attention and the garbage the media is flashing before our eyes.

I will be the first to admit that I really like (okay, maybe "like" is too tame) a good, intense, action-packed, novel that keeps me guessing until the very end. I enjoy action movies and ones with a little punch. What I don't get is the writers', authors', editors', producers', or whatevers' need to fill the pages and screens with filth and degradation.

I once read a quote that said using profanity (and I will include sex and pornography) is a sign of limited intelligence. How does that grab all you, so-called, intellectual elite??? Can't think of any other words to define a mood or emotion than foul language? Can't think of any other way to show physical emotion other than sex and pornography? Can't think of any other way to portray conflict other than blood, gore, & violence?

I was reading a "teen" series by an author and really enjoyed it. Lots of suspense, action, drama, etc. And guess what??? No language, sex, detailed violence or crude references!!!! Imagine that!!! Thinking the author would be someone I would enjoy on a more "adult" level, I purchased one of the author's books that was considered to be for adults, instead of young adults or teens. I sat myself down, eagerly turned to the first page, turned to the next page, flipped through the pages of the first chapter, got up and threw the book away.

Apparently, adult reading, or viewing, means the author can now use foul and vulgar language, crude references, and sex. Wait a minute. I thought becoming an adult meant being more mature, gaining more knowledge, using that knowledge intelligently, refinement, respect, professionalism. You know, all those adult things. If I had of known that being an adult was the same as being in the locker room when I was a teenager, I would have stopped right there. Look at all the time and energy, not to mention money, I wasted getting more education, refining and improving myself. Boy, what a smack in the face for all you people that consider yourselves "professionals" in whatever field you are in. You got duped!!!! All that money you thought you were putting in to get ahead. And look where it got you. Right back in a teenage locker room. Feeling smart?????

I'm sooo glad I realized my mistake before I continued down this path of waste. I'm an adult. I get to smoke, drink, take drugs, read smut, use foul and vulgar language, read and watch blood and gore, read or look at pornography, etc., etc., etc. Young people, no need to go any further. You've already made it!!!

I wonder what would happen if being an adult meant, no need to use foul or vulgar language, respect for others, intelligent conversations that don't revolve around sex, no satisfaction in reading or watching explicit violence and accepting it as entertainment, moving past the need for alcohol and drugs to make someone popular or "relaxed", respecting the human body (male or female) and not being caught up in the "wearing less and showing more means 'more mature'". I could go on forever.

Alas, I have come to the conclusion there are very few real adults out there in the vast human population. Most of these are children and haven't realized they have already surpassed the older generations. The other group are those of us who decided to leave our teenage and young, adult years behind us and move on to bigger and better things. Here's to being a REAL adult. Grow up world and join the party. We're having a lot more fun than you are.

9-1-1, S.O.S., Help me!! - you get the picture.

2010-09-20T09:23:00.000-07:00

I am a terrible blogger. I think of all these wonderful things to post, great words of wisdom, funny anecdotes, etc., etc. Pull up "Blogger" and immediately hit a blank. "Nope, nothin' in my noggin'." LLLLOOOVVVVEEE that movie.

So this is a 9-1-1 to all you gurus out there. I don't have the time, energy, or quite frankly, the desire to spend countless hours trying to figure out how to format my blog. Yes, I'm one of those that feels entitled to instant gratification and feel it is your duty to share your wealth of knowledge with me. After all, they say the rising generations are smarter than the last. So, cough it up!!!! Respect your elders and HELP ME!! Oh, and before I go blank again, keep it simple. Remember, I'm running on a "DOS" brain here.

4th of July!

2010-07-05T10:38:00.000-07:00

So thankful I live in this country. Not perfect, but wonderful still the same.

A HUGE thank you to all the fantastic men and women out there putting their life on the line for our freedoms -- past and present and future.

17th Anniversary and the Redding Rodeo. Yeah!!!

2010-05-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, now I know what you're all thinking. My house is a rodeo, with a number of clowns, and how could that be exciting on my Anniversary? 'Cause you got it wrong. My house is more like the zoo or circus and I LEFT my house and went to the rodeo.

For years I have been trying to get my better half to take me to the rodeo. I love the rodeo! It was one of my favorite things to do when I was younger. The Ravalli County Fair, seeing how many times you could spin in the Zipper and not throw up (just thinking about it makes my insides turn upside down), and the Rodeo. Of course since I was, and am, such a cowgirl, I was an expert of the sport. Loved those cowboys, wranglers, and bulls. Redbluff, just 30 min. south of us, is one of the major stops on the Pro-bull riding circuit.

Before you get too excited, we didn't go to Redbluff. But, we did go to the one here in Redding. This one is, of course, smaller but a lot of the cowboys use this rodeo to add to their points and experience. There were quite a few Pros in the bunch.

I was so excited I was jumping out of my skin. We went on Thursday night, which was Family Night, and got fantastic seats right in the middle of the stands. I was telling Better Half this was a perfect spot because we could see "everything".

Out comes the first bareback rider. Well, that was kind of boring. He didn't even fall off. The same with the next and the next. I thought 8 seconds was hard to do. These guys were making it look like child's play. In fact, it was the same with the saddle broncs. Man these guys weren't any fun to watch. I mean, half the fun was watching the cartwheels and gymnastics as the guys were flipping off and over the animals. The only gymnastics were the ones by the Redding Daredevils (I think that was their name). They were doing all sorts of nonesense on their horses as they were galloping around the arena. Like Grandpa Recht once said, "I could do that (or jump that high) if my tights were that tight, too."

The bull riding. I was ready for some action. Who were these guys? I mean really. Only one guy even got close to being skewed by a bull. There was no major flipping, trying to run out of the way of the bulls, or even dirt on their wranglers. What a disappointment!!! At lease only a couple actually made the 8 seconds.

And the animals. Where did they get these pygmies? I remember the animals being so much bigger and, of course, meaner. I mean, they had to be in order to rid themselves of their riders so easily. These animals must of had "gentle juice" or something. I could have "rode" those animals and I don't even live on a ranch.

Did you not get the event? Oh, let me tell you again. It was the Redding Pro Rodeo. What??? What did I miss??? These guys were pros?? Weren't they pros in Ravalli County??? They seemed like it to me. Well, no wonder everyone was chearing for them when they got high scores instead of booing them because they didn't fall off. I think there is something wrong with me when I was looking forward to the animals having the upper hand.

It was fun, they were GOOD, glad we went on Family Night instead of "beer" night, yelled and cheared right along with the best of 'em. Can't wait for next year!!!

The club and its phases of life.

2010-05-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

I love to go to the club and watch the generation gaps between the Yearlings, Bucks, and Stags. And, of course, let's not forget the Caterpillar, Cocoon, and Butterfly. No matter which room or activity you are involved in, the play of nature is always the same. Especially during the Spring and "new beginnings" when the animals begin to shed their outer layers and try to use up the fat stored for winter.

Let me illustrate. In the weight room, the Yearlings are the ones that are strutting around, doing more strutting than actual lifting . . . . unless a caterpillar slithers by. They are the ones in the latest fashion accessories, flexing when they think their being watched, and if they get the chance . . . . off comes the shirt. They don't have any horns to speak of yet, but it doesn't stop them from tossing their heads and challenging the more mature. Some of them have definitely eaten well with their shiny hair and rippling hides, but lack the confidence to mingle with the elders.

Now you have the Bucks. Undeniably these are the ones that have emerged from the "immature" phase and have entered that "middle, can't quite get it right" phase. Clothes are still somewhat coordinated and in fashion. The Bucks spend a lot of time lifting and grunting in between checking themselves out in the mirrors trying to convince themselves they still look like Yearlings. They blow their horns loudly, stamp their feet, and make a good show. What they lack in hair and hide, they try to make up for in huffing, puffing, sweat, and the telling of "When I was. . . . "

And then you have the Stag. He is regal, sure of himself, doesn't bother with the young ones, and is basically there for himself. His clothes don't match and he doesn't care, the hair is usually a mess, he doesn't strut for the insect varieties . . . . but smiles at everyone . . . . realizing he isn't a Yearling and looks ridiculous trying to act like a Buck and will probably die trying. Enjoys the flattery, but moves beyond it. Love these guys!!!

Not to be outdone we have the other species of life, which begins with the Caterpillar. Oh, yes. She is primped, primed, and stamped with approval. Nothing is out of place from her shiny attennas, her fancy outfits, down to her bristling fur. Her job is to bring Yearlings and Bucks out to play. Activities are usually done with one eye on the mirror and lots of smoothing and grooming. Lap swimming is where the greatest performance takes place. Each Caterpillar works to outdo her competition. They jump in the pool and try not to mess up their antennas or fur. If any are brave enough to actually pretend to swim, their minimal outfits don't allow for all swimming strokes or even a pace quicker than a slow slither. They are good!!!

The Cocoon is very similar to the Buck. Kind of in hybernation, not wanting to be a Caterpillar anymore . . . basically because she knows she can't . . . . and trying to be dignified as she moves toward Butterfly, kicking and screaming all the way. Outfits are still more on the showy side than practical, but it doesn't quite make it. After all, no one wants to admit they've outgrown their first set of colors. More interested in prolonging the onslaught of the Butterfly, the Cocoon spends a lot of time sweating, then making excuses for why the antennas are drooping, fur is dull, and colors are fading. The Cocoon still smiles at the Yearlings, realizes they can't pass the Bucks, and avoid the Stags like a plague

The crowning jewels are the Butterflies. They are marvelous creatures. They spread their wings and fly. Not only have they matured to the fullest, they are not afraid to show it. If the antennas are not quite straight or shiny, that's okay . . . . they'll just wilt with the bodily exertions. If a comb doesn't quite make it to tame the fur, that's okay . . . . a hat, ponytail, other interesting gadgets, or just leaving it as morning greets them is just fine. There is no pretense as to the purpose of their visit. Their outfits are very practical, if not commical. If they "don't have it", they don't care and aren't going to hide it. They are lovely and each one is unique and beautiful. Their job, of course, is to keep the Stags from hurting themselves and add balance.

Today, my Butterfly was emerging. I had the outfit, my nails were done, I walked with a little pluck in my step, and . . . . I'd forgotten to do anything with my fur. I'm one of those that it takes all night for my fur ro reach such magnitude and splendor. Half of the fur still looked like I was still in bed and the other half looked like it was trying to run away. I certainly didn't pull it off with the dignity of a Butterfly, but spluttered right along with the best of them. I'm a Caterpillar living in the body of a Cocoon and in complete and utter denial that I will EVER turn into a Butterfly!!!

I ran away!!

2010-05-02T21:39:00.000-07:00

Now, I can't say that my destination was paradise, but then again, being alone sure helps.

I called my prince charming yesterday afternoon and told him I was renting a hotel and running away. My kids were asking, "Why, Mom?" I squeazed each of their little faces and said, "You are one of the six reasons I'm going."

I wish I could say I did incredible things, but I painted my nails, slept, read a little, slept, took a drink of water, slept. You see the pattern.

I came home this morning to a nice clean house. Prince Charming definitely knows what I need.

I do feel bad for him though. Can you imagine being called at work and told your spouse is "running away" for the day? Poor guy probably thought I was going off the deep end and not coming back. Well, I did go off the deep end, but I went with a life perserver attached to the bank. Can't get too far!

For the record, I love my family, I love my kids, I love my husband . . . . Sometimes I just have to take a breath.

The NERVE of my mother!!

2010-04-27T22:18:00.000-07:00

I have decided to blame my mother for this one. After all, it IS her fault. She started it, she made me do it, she made me do it again when it wasn't right, and now I can't get away from it. Every year it comes back. Every year I run away, but it doesn't. Every year I try to ignore it, but it won't be ignored. Are you getting the picture here?

So here I am, at that point again. I cry, I sweat, I come up with a million excuses, and in the end . . . . I always give in.

Darn this spring cleaning. Mom, how could you? How could you have taught me such a valuable skill? How could you have made cleanliness such an important part of life? Couldn't you have cared about me just a little less? Couldn't you have let me sleep in just a little longer on those days?

So, here goes to my Mom. I'm blaming ALL of this on you. Thank you for loving me enough to teach me. I love the smell of a clean house.

She's emerging . . . . but only just a little.

2010-03-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

My "little" girl is venturing out. My soccer & Jiu Jitsu athlete, who thinks that wearing her brothers t-shirts, jeans, and sketchers are enough. No makeup, no hair done, slap on a hoodie, and we're good for the day. Quite an accomplishment in its own right, considering pajamas would be the wardrobe of choice.

Along comes the stake dance. Oh, it is a "church dress" one. "Do I have to wear a dress? This is so lame. No one is going to dance." Over comes her best friend -- who, by the way, is as girlie as Shania is a tomboy. Polar opposites, but uncannily so close in appearance they are confused as sisters.

Giggling, talking, walking back and forth from the bathroom to bedroom . . . . this continues for an hour. "Mom, will you show me how to put on coverup?" "What do you think of this outfit?" "How about this one?"

Five outfits later (I thought this only happened in the movies), makeup on, final mirror check, dance card in hand, my beauty heads out to the car. Now, the saving grace in all of this -- as I was trying to figure out how to put a perimeter fence around her without having her wear a tacky dog collar -- the primping and pampering stopped at the eyes. The hair didn't quite make it. Sigh!!! That was a good "sigh". I still have my "little" girl.

Give me soccer shorts, Jiu Jitsue Gi, baggy pants, and hoodies . . . . I'll take whatever I can get. Just stay away boys . . . she can't date until she's 21.

Diet & Exercise -- just rip my brain out through my nose!

2010-03-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, eggs caused cancer. Today, it is a necessary part of your diet. Protein was needed to break down carbs. Now, if you have too much you can get cancer. Sugar is essential for energy. Too much, or the wrong kind, and you get Diabetes. Take your vitamins. Don't take your vitamins, your body can't process them anyway. Body needs fat to survive. Lose all the fat or your heart won't survive. Brush your teeth in the morning, evening, and after each meal. Don't brush your teeth too often or you'll cause problems with your gums. Eat six small, balanced meals. It doesn't matter when or what you eat, just eat the right amount of calories. You need 20+ minutes of cardio per day for a healthy heart. Exercise too much and your body goes into survival mode. Use deodorant to control body odor and sweat. Don't use deodorant because sweat is the natural cooling system of the body and deodorant can cause cancer.

When does it ever end? Has the world not learned that if given the right circumstances, almost everything is either good for you or bad for you and can or cannot cause cancer? When do we get to choose for ouselves and take responsibility for our own choices? Obviously, some things are beyond the lay person's comprehension -- especially when they use all those big words to describe what is in food or products. But, really? Do you have to tell me that hot coffee is hot? Do I really need to be reminded everytime I eat a bowl of ice cream that this has been known to cause an elevation in fat?

Common sense people. Now, what we really need is a "common sense" TV channel or Internet site where people can go and learn common sense or at least look it up. Or maybe they should just call me. I am overflowing with common sense.

For example, my clothes are not fitting because I used the wrong laundry detergent and they shrunk in the dryer. It has nothing to do with the piece of cake I ate. I don't have any energy because I have my days and nights mixed up and has nothing to do with staying up late or eating foods that are empty calories (I can eat whatever I want, just as long as it is a certain amount of calories, right?) My legs hurt because the floor I'm exercising on isn't the right kind and has nothing to do with the fact that I'm getting older and things are breaking. My eyes are hurting because my pupils are not dialating correctly and letting in too much light and has nothing to do with the fact that I'm so tired, which of course stems from the fact that my days and nights are mixed up.

See, the wisdom I have to offer the world. I could go on and on. It is just amazing being in my presence. I can't understand why someone would say, "Don't follow your mother's example, she is obviously "common sense" challenged."

Movie night

2010-03-13T20:09:00.000-08:00

It's the famous "Jacobson Hotel". We shut everything down, take the kids to the 99 cent store, let 'em go wild with a whole $2.00, return to home, make beds all over the living room floor, plug in a movie, and they make themselves sick on junk. Great fun!!!

Major downside??? I get sick on the junk too and the next day is always a joy. Sugar, lots of sugar, not a lot of sleep, and close quarters. Big mistake on a Saturday night. Oooohhhh, can't wait for church tomorrow. I wonder if lack of good judgment is a good enough excuse to keep the circus under the big top.

O. of the M. -- videos

2010-03-01T20:33:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I watched the videos and I've decided to spare all of you the eye strain. I'm defnitely a novice of the nth degree. Just take my word for it -- they were great!!!

Odyssey of the Mind

2010-03-01T13:05:00.000-08:00

Saturday, Kaela and Andrew had their regional competitions. I took some pictures and videos. Can't promise anything, novice here. Both of the kids' teams chose a problem in the classics, "Discovered Treasure". The teams have a certain number of months they can prepare. They create the skit, create the props and backgrounds, costumes, etc. All has to be done without help from an adult (there are coaches, but can't help). Each skit has to have certain elements, all different depending on level, etc, and can only be 8 minutes long. Even one second after will begin deducting points.

Kaela was a rich kid and was only interested in the money.

Andrew was one of the "discoverers".

Videos are being a pain and can't figure out how to get them loaded, but Andrew's team took first in Division II and Kaela's team took second in Division I. They are now both headed to the State competition.

Musings

2010-02-27T11:10:00.000-08:00

Today is one of those days when I should be taking full advantage that most of my kids are gone, the weather has finally blessed us with a little sunshine, and for the moment we are all healthy (notice I said "for the moment").

I don't put away much time to check my computer activities anymore. Not because I don't want to . . . . heaven knows I'd spend all day at it. I have to pick and choose and my puny brain is dictating my activities. So fun living with OCD.

This morning, in between running to Odyssey of the Mind for Kaela and Andrew, I have spent time just sitting and trying to catch up on all the wonderful happenings in other parts of my important world. As much as I hate technology, I can't live without it either. So wonderful on so many levels.

I live hundreds of miles from my closest sibling yet I can fire up the computer and see into her home and get a small glimpse of her kids and what exciting things they are doing. More miles away other siblings' lives are marching right along and through the miracle of the Internet I can take a moment and feel a small part of their lives.

Love it and hate it. Technology helps us stay closer, yet it also allows us to live further apart.

Super Bowl Party. What's that?

2010-02-09T15:42:00.000-08:00

All throughout the week the kids have seen advertisments for the Super Bowl, parties, and goodies. Conversations went something like this:

Kids: We want a Super Bowl party.

Mom: Do you know what the Super Bowl is?

Kids: No, but we want a party.

Mom: It's on Sunday.

Kids: That's not fair. Everyone else is having a party. How come we can't? What is the Super bowl anyway?

Mom: It is a professional football game. It determines the champion of all the teams.

Kids: Ooohh, cool. Who are you going to cheer for?

Mom: I don't even know which teams are playing.

Kids: We'll find out.

Off they went to the computer and chose teams. Four for the Colts and two for the Saints.

We had tons of food.

Party style.

Comfy seats for the viewing.

And, after an hour the kids had eaten all they could eat, were thoroughly bored, and couldn't figure out what the hype was all about. I couldn't have planned it better myself.

Why food???

2010-02-05T16:34:00.000-08:00

Ooohhhh, look at all this mouth watering morsels of goodness that you can put in your body to sustain life.

If only whenever I cook it would turn out like this. Yum!!! Is is it really that yummy???

Now this looks yummy. This is what I NEED to sustain my life.

I'll even take it in this form.

Better yet, I like this one!!!

Okay, now it is your turn. Pick up the phone, call, and send me my chocolate!!!

This is what happens on a Saturday night in Redding

2010-01-23T22:34:00.000-08:00

Life gets boring around here. It has been raining, can't get out and play, and I became the excitement for the evening.

If you think this looks like fun, you should see the end result. Wish I could give you a picture, but I'm still trying to get over the shock!!!

Let's be honest -- Happy New Year

2010-01-20T19:33:00.000-08:00

I'm sure there is a spot in heaven dedicated to all my great intentions of sending out Christmas cards. I even decided that if I couldn't get one out at Christmas, I'd just title it my New Year's Letter and no one would be the wiser. Now I have the dilemma of trying to figure out when it is too late to send out the New Year's Letter. Rather than stress myself out any further, here are the pictures we were going to send. Enjoy!!

It's only hair mom

2010-01-20T19:11:00.000-08:00

There is a rule in our house. Well, it's not really a rule, but more an unspoken agreement. It began when the Queen of the castle decided that hair was an artist's canvas and over the years filled her portfolio with all sorts of combinations of styles and colors. It grows, it changes color, it can be cut, it can be styled, and so on and so forth.

I think I'm pretty tolerant of hair. Of course, I do draw the line at some things, but for the most part . . . . have fun. After all, it is only hair.

Keeping that little nugget in mind, my offspring #1 decided her hair had to go. No problem. Her best friend's sister cuts hair. What could possibly go wrong?

I think I need to be more specific on the unspoken agreements we have around here.

Too tired to go to bed!

2010-01-11T21:00:00.000-08:00

from: palmettobug53.

Just to let you know how incedibly tired I am, I can't make this stupid thing align to the left. And, of course, it is the machine that is stupid. Don't even think it!!!!

Ever been so tired that you can't think straight, can't walk straight, can't focus your eyes, can't stop moving or will fall over, catch yourself staring blankly at nothing and wondering how long you have been like that, sure there is something you should be doing but can't seem to remove your behind from the couch, etc., etc.?

That would be me!!! I want to go to bed sooo bad. Go to bed!, you say. Well, slight problem. If I retire to my bed at this hour, I will wake up at 3:00 a.m. and heaven knows I don't want to be up at that ridiculous hour. Oh, but you can get so much done. The kids will be in bed, the house will be silent, I won't have to interrupt my "whatever" I'm doing to help out my ingrates. Think of the possibilities.

NO, NO, NO, NO!!! I want to go to bed and sleep for 8+ hours without interruption. I want to lay down on my pillow, close my eyes, and dream of ocean waves and sandy beaches. I want to fall asleep with a smile on my face and no thoughts pushing and shoving for attention. I want to feel the calm of the night air and the stillness of slumber. I want to spend the complete night wrapped up in my favorite blanket.

Oh, fabulous bliss!!!! Where are thou, bliss???? Can you hear my pleas???? STOP IGNORING ME!!!! You're as bad as my kids. . . .

Self-sabotage & obssessions!

2010-01-04T21:37:00.000-08:00

How many times have you been asked, "What is the purpose of life?" And how many times have you reached into your Primary memory banks and smartly replied, "The purpose of life is to gain a body and live life in such a way so you can return to live with your Heavenly Father." Text book question and text book answer.

I have come to the conclusion that this is not my purpose in life. I have tried to conform, but no matter how hard I try I keep getting slingshot back to reality. See, my life has its moments of peace. I mean, things are really moving along nicely. That must be my mistake. I get comfortable and complacent.

When, bam, my little, pea brain begins to stir and I panic. Life cannot be this pleasant! There is something missing! What did I do wrong? Then the anxiety kicks in, the hyperventilating, looking over my shoulder, checking everything more than once, pinching myself to see if this is a dream, and finally coming to the conclusion that I need complicated.

Such a moment has occurred. I couldn't leave well enough alone. NOOO!!!! I had to go and throw everything away. I'm going to stay up at night, sweating, and wondering if everything is okay. I'm going to be crawling around on my hands and knees randomly sniffing the carpet for evidence of foul play. I'm going to be checking cupboards and all the contents before I shut the doors to make sure there isn't anything in there that doesn't belong there. I'm going to be demanding silence and straining my ears in hopes of hearing the appropriate scratching noises.

Why must I always create chaos??? Did I not have enough gray hairs? Is my scalp not itchy and flaking enough? Do I not have enough excuses to indulge in pounds of chocolate and then agonize over pounds of flesh?

But there I was behind the wheel of my car, travelling an unfamiliar road, parking at an unfamiliar house, smiling and trying to act sane to an unfamiliar face, and then carting back to my car . . . not one . . . but TWO unfamiliar kittens. And, to top it off, they are male. WHAT WAS I THINKING???????

So to that simple question of what is my purpose in life comes the simple answer -- to find anything and everything I can think of that will end my moments of peace and thoroughly drive me further and further insane. And, I will have you know I am succeeding fabulously at my purpose.

Does this explain everything or what??!!!!

2009-12-31T10:54:00.000-08:00

Tonight is New Year's Eve. It is the time when we can eagerly anticipate the coming year and all the wonderful experiences that lie ahead. A time of excitement for the unknown. Contemplating the possibilities.

It is when we reflect on the past year and evaluate the progress we made towards our goals. We sit with our families and make new goals that will help us realize our dreams. We look forward to the dates when individual milestones will be reached and prepare for the next ones.

Eating junk food and playing games all evening. The cheering at the stroke of midnight, little shared unmentionables, smiles, and tender hugs. A picture-perfect moment.

A picture is worth a thousand words!!! Now, go back and look at the picture again. A new year on it's way????? Why do I feel like the cat???

I hate my washer!!!!

2009-12-23T21:05:00.000-08:00

I have this wonderful washer -- or so I thought. These amazing settings for every type of clothing. Multiple settings for water temperature. Settings for how much of a spin you want. Even settings for how dirty your clothes are. How wonderful is that!!!

Okay, so with all those wonderful things, how come my clothes are still shrinking??? I follow all the rules. I check the "washing instructions" for each item. I even air dry most of my things. But, yet, I put the clothes in at a size "12" and it keeps coming out size "4". I swear, I'm going to sue the washing machine company.

See for yourself!!! Proof is in the picture. Pictures don't lie!!!!

Trying to be thankful

2009-12-17T21:07:00.000-08:00

I read my sister's blog and my heart went out to her. I am healthy. I am strong. I can run. I can get up and move around without pain. I can cook and clean for my family. I can get out of bed in the morning and help my children get ready for school. I can send my children to school and be fairly confident they will return home to me without too many events in the afternoon. I can go to bed at night without wondering if I will be able to do it again tomorrow.

Wow, how easy it is for me to complain about having a headache or a little extra weight, the weather not being to my liking so I don't exercise, feelings of complacency and not getting things done, wishing the school day was longer, staying up too late and feeling lousy the next day . . . and I could go on and on.

How many times do I find myself wallowing in self-pity? Just spend a little time in someone else's shoes. I think Michael J. Fox made the comment, when asked if he could trade his trials for another's, if he put his trials on the table with everyone else's -- he'd pick his own after all.

I love my sister and she is a shining example of strength, perseverance, faith, endurance, service, and love to only name a few. Wish I could be there to give her a hug.

Pathetic . . . but he's so precious!!!

2009-11-20T09:14:00.000-08:00

It's pouring, cold, windy, and very wet. Is it my fault dogs were made to go the bathroom outside??? They eat, they sleep, they poop. It's the way of life, honey. So get your behind out there and do your business.

I'm so cold hearted. If he eats my food he has to abide by my rules!!! If I give an inch, he'll think he's kingpin and I lose. Can I help it if he isn't tall enough to clear the grass? Suck it up, mongrel, there is no sympathy here.

And here I am sitting in pants that are wet from the knees down, shoes that squeak when I walk, and frozen fingers. Why you ask? Well, someone has to hold the umbrella for the little darling while he sniffs around for the perfect spot; checks the direction of the wind; listens for pending danger; turns his sad, questioning, brown eyes on me; does his business; then sits up against my leg until I pick him up to come back in the house.

Someone find me a rod to put in against my backbone. It's feeling a little squishy!!

Demolition Derby

2009-11-15T15:05:00.001-08:00

I'm excited to say that we have our new insert in the gaping whole where the fireplace used to be. We are still waiting for the shield, but I am enjoying having an efficient fire. I'll send pictures when it is all done and pretty.

Yesterday, we took out the pellet stove from the kitchen. Have you ever had the experience of having an itch and once you get started you can't quit? My itch was the rock behind the pellet stove. Karsten tried one rock and it came off so easily that before we knew it all the rock and cement was gone. Yahoo!!!!! Kitchen looks pretty bare without the stove and it echoes, but can't wait for the next phase. Good bye wall!!!

The stone was so easy for the pellet stove we are getting ready for the stone on the fireplace. If it is as easy, we could see some great changes rather quickly.

Now, if we could just find the money tree we'd be set.

Where's my Advil???

2009-11-10T21:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, so Saturday evening we went and played volleyball with some other couples in our ward. Lotsa fun, lotsa bruises, but wait . . . . Who are these youngsters? When did I graduate from "Beehive Bonus" to "Granny Give Back"?

So here I was laughing it up when I popped a serve into the net. No biggie, I was in good company. But, the kicker was when they bounced the ball back to me and told me that at my age I could try again. AT MY AGE?????? What in the blankety-blank were they talking about? I was hopping right along with the rest. For once I was definitely not the weak one on the court. How could they say such a thing? Who did they think they were? The audacity that they would even suggest I have advanced at all in age?

Then . . . . reality check!!!! I stopped for a split second and . . . WHEN DID THAT HAPPEN? I was the oldest one there. Who stole the clock?

Hmmmph. I am NOT going down without a fight. Bring it on world!!! Look inside me -- I'm still young. I've still got it goin' on!!!

AAAAGGGGHHHH . . . . gotta take a break. Gotta finger cramp and I can't remember what this was all about. Oh yeah, I'm still young . . . . Oh forget it, I'm going to bed.

The train has finally derailed!!!

2009-10-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

I like to say that I am the type of person that uses time wisely and puts all resources to its ultimate potential. I like to say that I seek out all opportunities to maximize "dead" time. I like to say I have the fortunate blessing of going to bed at an early hour and when my head hits the pillow a soft sigh of satisfaction escapes my lips and I drift off into a wonderfully, peaceful slumber.

Last night was no exception. It was a day filled with errands, laundry, Hebrew lessons, homework, exercise, and of course, quiet time. The kids were all quietly in their rooms asleep, my better half was getting his beauty rest, the dog was safely tucked away, and I had exhausted my quota for the amount of reading I allow in a day. Lest I go to bed without utilizing my full potential, I finished the dishes . . . . It was the third load that day because I didn't step near the kitchen sink the day before -- but that is a story for another day -- we're marveling at my greatness THIS day.

I stepped into the laundry room to switch the clothes from the washer to the dryer. I was doing my part in making sure I used the least amount of electricity by running my dryer at non-peak hours. Clothes were exchanged, lint catch was clean, dryer sheet was torn in half -- pinching pennies (I'm so good!!!), timer set, and button pushed . . . I know because my dryer is so unique it requires just the right touch to make sure the door is closed.

I finished my night time routine and laid in bed with a slight smile as I listened to my appliances doing their thing in the middle of the night.

Morning arrives. Sunshine awakes. Pleasant stretch for a new day. Pleased with myself because I could begin my day one step ahead. It is looking brighter and brighter. Kids off to school, honey out the door to work, paperwork complete, and I waltz to the laundry room.

Have you ever had those moments when confusion clouds your vision and you have to sit down and really think about things? I mean really scrunch up your forehead, screw your eyes shut, pucker your lips, and tap your head trying to make the brain connect? Was it my imagination? Was it in my dreams? Is there a gremlin in the house?

No, my washer and dryer were where they should be. All looked well. Grab the laundry basket and open the dryer. That moment hit me!!! I checked the garbage. Yes, there was the lint from the dryer . . . . couldn't miss it, there was at least a week's worth wadded in there. Checked the dryer sheets . . . . yes, there was a half a sheet . . . . and there was the other half in the dryer. And finally checked the washing machine. And there it all was. All those wonderful clothes had jumped out of my dryer and back into the washing machine. I know, because I put them in the dryer last night!!!!

Soccer Champions

2009-09-30T10:35:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of my winners!!

Morgan on the "Thunder Kickers"

McCade on the "Goal Kickers"

Team Tsunami

2009-09-12T09:01:00.001-07:00

Here are the kids in their Jiu Jitsu class.

Kaela and Logan in the background, Andrew trying to get his opponent in "guard".

Shania grappling . . . . What are you doing on your feet????

Andrew and instructor learning a choke hold.

McCade finishing up the "scissor sweep".

Andrew trying to manipulate his opponent, Kaela and Logan in background grappling.

Morgan finishing up one of the many sweeps (I can't remember the name).

Kids in line to practice new moves.

McCade and the punching bag.

Logan learning a "choke", McCade triumphant.

Fun times!!!!

And I forgot to mention . . .

2009-08-21T18:42:00.000-07:00

Shania's coach moved up to U16 and asked Shania to move up also. What that means is . . . Shania is 13 on a U16 team. Adds a little more significance to her being named team captain. Brag, brag, brag . . .

Brag, brag, brag . . . .

2009-08-20T21:59:00.000-07:00

Soccer season is upon us with a vengeance. Our only players this year are Shania, Morgan & McCade. McCade is a no-brainer on the field. He is practically bigger than all the other team mates. He loves to run and for a 5 yr. old he is quite an athletic, if I do say so myself. And I do!!!

Morgan is our surprise. She flits around the field and you never know if she is dancing, running, or flying. But, she is the top scorer in her age group. She just gets in there whenever she gets tired of watching the other players fumble around with the ball and she takes it, runs it the field, and scores.

Shania LOVES soccer. Her improvement over the last couple of years has been fun to watch. She is really excited this year because . . . . she was put in as the first team captain -- there are three captains and she is the leading captain. We are so proud of her. She has worked hard for this. The coach talked to me this evening and he couldn't say enough about her. He has been her coach for the past 4-5 seasons and has helped her along the way.

I'm not living vicariously or anything . . . ., but it does me good to watch my kids succeed -- no matter how big or small the achievement.

It's a bummer

2009-08-16T19:05:00.000-07:00

I'm having the time of my life. When school starts all fun ends at my house. The kids don't get to watch TV, play computer games, nintendo, etc., etc. Friday evening they are allowed to watch a movie and usually Saturday mornings they get to watch cartoons.

Life has ended as they know it. They are searching through movies and making a list of allowable titles. See . . . . I put a new stipulation on their viewing pleasures. The movie has to be rated "G". Are you kidding me???? There is nothing to watch!!! We are going to be soooo bored.

I told them they could watch HGTV, cartoons,food channel or the travel channel, Discovery channel, or PBS. Of course they are restricted by the "G" rating. How could you do this to us??? What are we going to do??? PBS -- those are baby shows!!! None of the cartoons are rated "G". This is so unfair!!! Can you just hear it?

Well, we had a discussion on free agency. They can choose their actions, but they can't always choose the consequences. I'm the boss . . . . I get to choose the consequences. You fight . . . . you lose!!! I love being in charge!

Lotsa babies . . . .

2009-06-17T09:59:00.000-07:00

Since the kids got out of school, I have been watching two squirrels in our back yard. I have actually been surprised at how close I can get with Dexter before they scamper off.

This morning we have had the pleasure of watching mommy and daddy bring their little ones into the open for the first time. We have a wood pile in the field that has little squirrels peaking from it. They come a couple of feet into the open, sit for a minute, and then dart back to the safety of the wood. There are probably anywhere from 5 to 8. It is hard to keep track as they are scampering all over. Here are a couple of pictures. I'm not sure you can see them very well, but we tried!!!

This one is on the wood next to the green post.

Here's another picture of him

Here's one of mommy or daddy with two babies in front. This is a nature's version of "Where's Waldo?"

On the wood again.

Here's one of a little in the grass. Can you find it?

I want my baby sis to come and take care of me!!!!

2009-06-10T09:22:00.001-07:00

The kids pitched the tent in the front yard a few days ago. I remember the days when we "camped" out in the front yard. The kids have been taking turns "camping" all week.

Last night at 10:00 p.m. as Karsten and I ran down to the shop to close trailer windows to an impending rain storm I thought of the kids in the tent. I couldn't believe they were still out there with the lightening and such. I had fleeting thoughts of bringing them in. Surely a little rain couldn't hurt anyone. It is an experience they'll remember. After all, I remember spending hours listening to the rain and being told over and over again not to touch the sides of the tent.

Off to bed I go, still listening to the rain at 11:30 p.m. Time rolls by and at 1:00 a.m. the front door opens and in walks the first victim. Kaela was soaked, freezing and crying. She had awakened in a puddle of water. Taken care of, warm clothes and in bed.

Back to bed I go. Still dodging the sleep-fairy, I put my relaxation tape in and settle down to what I hoped would be quiet slumber. At 2:30 a.m. I hear the door open and the last of the shelter seekers stagger in. So much for plans. Shania couldn't understand why she was sweating so heavily until she realized her playing cards were floating in water next to her. Logan was desperately trying to find other blankets to sleep with because all of his were off his bed and now were pretending they were life rafts saving all the sleeping bugs from drowning in the tent.

After settling the kids down, getting books, games and cards laid out to dry, all back in dry clothes and snuggled in bed, I was off to bed yet again.

It is amazing how the mind and body can still function after counting the patterns on the inside of your eyelids for countless numbers of minutes. Well, function is a bit of an exaggeration, but at least I'm physically in the upright position.

I'm jealous of my little sis. Sympathy for her ailments, but jealous nonetheless that our baby sis is there to help her. I think she should just finish her business in Utah and then move on to Cali to give care here, head down to Texas for her duties there, and then return to Montana. I'm sure her husband will understand. After all, he has her for eternity!!!

I'm an ogre!!!

2009-05-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

I know I am the only parent that won't allow my kids to wear pajamas, slippers, bathrobes, sweats, dirty clothes, ripped jeans, or the like to school. I have come to accept the fact that I am medieval in my thinking, certainly not "up with the times", and archaic. I am backwards in that my children have to be dressed to go to school, their pants have to stay at their waistlines, their shirts must have sleeves and have to amply cover their belt loops, there must be enough material in their shirts (whether it is thickness or amount) to wipe up a 1/2 cup of spilled water, shoes need to be tied, hair has to be combed and I need to see their eyes, not to mention their clothes are boring because they are clean and the graphics "are for babies."

My boys are being stifled because their hair is above their ears and off their collars, aren't allowed to have tattoos (even fake ones), or piercings. My girls live in a convent because they can't wear makeup at 12, have to wait to pierce their ears, lingerie (and we all know what I mean) is not appropriate over clothes or under for that matter, and it isn't cute to wear shirts that show the color of their bra or low-rider pants that have turned all the girls into plumbers.

Yes, I am of the monster clan. They can't play video games rated higher than "E", they can't watch TV rated higher than "G", they have to have a language filter on all their movies, they don't have all the latest hand-held gadgets, and alas we are in the dark ages because they don't have a TV in their room and the computer is password protected.

But, I wear my "ogre-ness" with pride. I had ogres as parents and I think I turned out okay. So, here is a cheer to all of us ogres out there. May we live long, polish our horns, sharpen our claws, oil our muscles, and raise the meanest monsters we can!!!!

Demons out!!!

2009-05-01T10:15:00.000-07:00

Gremlins came to visit and reeked havoc on my piano. A couple of weeks ago I was playing and two keys in the middle of the piano were sticking together and playing at the same time. An irritation, but livable. If you pounded hard enough, they would un-stick for a couple of measures and you could keep playing.

Yesterday, I sat down those two keys weren't sticking anymore, but further up the piano about five were. What in the world? I thought I was going crazy.

The piano tuner came today and my gremlins have been discovered. Bless my pointed, little children's hearts. They were shoving pencils down into the mechanisms. Major sighs of relief. Now I have to think of REAL good punishment -- 50 lashes with a wet noodle.

Yesterday is gone . . . Tomorrow never comes. . . Therefore, you're stuck with today. So get with it already, would ya???

2009-04-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

Wow, I'm such a philosophizer, doncha thunk???

Whoever coined the phrase, "Yesterday is the past, tomorrow is the future, today is a gift that is why it is called the present" -- or however it goes -- must not have had kids, bad hair days, cars that won't start, leaky roofs, yards full of stickers, white socks now dirty from walking on floors (inside the house -- icky!!!), smeared toothpaste on mirrors and counters, garbage strewn all over from neighbors animals -- and then leaving their mountainous deposits in lawn . . . Dexter might step in it and sink up to his neck). Not to mention running from kid to kid trying to catch projectile discarded stomach contents and all the other lovelies that go with it!!!

I think someone once said something about cherishing the moment because when it is gone you will long for it (like to ask them if they'd like to spend a day at my house so they can relive those glory days) . . . and stop and smell the roses (impossible with a clothespin on your nose) . . . and this too shall pass (I've had enough of the passing, thank you very much) . . . and when you look back you will wonder where the time has gone (I know where the time has gone, I charted every minute waiting for the blessed angel of sleep to knock the lights out of my kids).

In retrospect though, there is a silver lining in every cloud. I got to sit on the couch holding my babies and not feel guilty about "wasting time." I didn't have to cook because it wouldn't be eaten anyway. The energy level was quite low and there was minimal fighting. No one complained when they watched a movie they'd seen "one hundred times." Andrew didn't complain when he was late for scouts because ice cream was the food of choice. And, I got to go to bed early with the sickies.

I received an e-mail reply to my last earth-shattering blog post about waking up and saying "thank you" -- already in conversation with Heavenly Father. What a magnificent thought. I'm thankful for a new day to stop and reflect on the gift that I did have yesterday of "setting myself aside" and focusing on those things that truly matter. Will my kids be malnourished because they had ice cream? Nope! Can I open windows and air out my house? Yup! Can I sit and hold my babies when they are full of energy and it isn't "cool" to be sitting with Mom? Nope! Are their brains going to rot out of their heads because we did nothing but fry our eyes staring at TV, computers, or games all day? Debatable, but Nope!

And, above all, they are off and running today. Yesterday is already forgotten. It is true . . . Cherish the moments -- they can seem eternal, but are gone in a flash. Stop and smell the roses -- even if they are rotten and stinky -- at least it means your nose still works!!!!

Writing for the sake of writing -- nothing to say!!!

2009-04-26T21:10:00.000-07:00

Ever sit down to your computer and that little voice in the back of your head tells you that you should be writing something interesting, there has to be something worth talking about, how boring can your life be, journals -- what are they for again, and who cares anyway. Well, that is me. I looked at all those cute blog designs and figured that if I changed my blog design then at least I'm exerting some effort.

Then I saw that you could print out your blog in journal fashion and I thought how pathetic life can be sometimes.

Then that little voice inside of me slaps me across the face and repeats some of the things I heard at Women's Conference a couple of weekends ago. "Aren't you glad Heavenly Father doesn't get tired of making one more daisy?" "Aren't you glad Jesus Christ didn't get tired and complain about one more healing?" Set priorities, do those NEEDFUL things and not necessarily those things you think you SHOULD be doing. OOOHHHH, I need to repent.

So, I have decided that I will look for at least one thing of beauty each day and point it out to my kids. Heaven knows I spend enough time in the car there has to be something beautiful out there. At which point Karsten pointed at himself and said how much further do I have to look???? He has a good point. Hopefully if he combs his hair just right he can cover it. Kidding aside. The beauty is right in front of me and sometimes I look over the fence to see what is growing over there.

Don't try and outrun the spirit. And, move forward by slowing down. In Doctrine & Covenants 109, this section is the dedicatory prayer to the Kirtland Temple and a great section in learning how to pattern our homes after the temple. It emphasizes the need to organize, prepare and establish. I spend a lot of time establishing and not enough time organizing and preparing.

Repent, repent, repent. Wow, I'm thankful for another day.

And -- let me try this again!!

2009-02-23T14:24:00.000-08:00

This is the solo part! Pretty darn good for only 6 months!!!

Andrew's violin contest

2009-02-22T16:29:00.001-08:00

We are so proud of Andrew. This was his first competition -- and he sure looked great! He is required by his teacher to "compete" at least twice a year.

Here is Andrew as the "lead" of the group.

There were about 50 contestants from all ages. This group is only a portion of those that performed. Andrew is on the right, second row. In Andrew's defense of these pictures, his mother is a terrible photographer and these pictures were taken while they were preparing -- so he isn't staring off into space, not paying attention.

Andrew was required to perform a solo and a duet. The songs for solo were "Heel & Toe", "Edelweiss", and "Cripple Creek". The rules state that you have 30 minutes before you perform to work with your guitarist. They are not allowed to have met or practiced before this. They are judged on things like: tonal quality, rhythm, if they are in sync with the guitarist (the guitarist cannot slow down or repeat anything), strong start of each song, correct intro so guitarist can follow -- just to name a few.

Here Andrew is playing in the "Twin -- youth/youth" division. They played, "The Old French Waltz." Again, he first met this young girl (9 yrs. old) right before the performance. Andrew didn't place in this particular event, but it was a good experience for him to have to play and listen to another violinist.

Here is Andrew with the top contestants in his division. He ended up placing seventh. He wanted to place higher, but was pleased with his performance. Having never done something like this, he did a wonderful job.

Romance

2009-02-18T16:45:00.000-08:00

Something special? Those mushy, gushy moments that make all the women blush and the men roll their eyes? Cherished moments that I hold dear to my heart and brings a smile to my face.

Actually, the first romantic experience I ever had was when I was in high school. I remember it was Valentine’s Day. Somehow my dad figured out I was going to be missing out and when I came home from school there was a red rose on my pillow with a little note telling me he loved me. Wow!!! That was going to be tough to top.

But, my honey has done just that. You would think it was a huge event, much built-up excitement, flowers, fancy clothes, or incredibly exquisite food. No, it is in all the little things that endear me so much.

For example, when we were dating Karsten’s favorite cereal was “Honey Nut Cheerios”. He used to cut the front of the box and write on it with cute poems and sayings using the “Honey Nut Cheerios” words.

When we got engaged, he didn’t have a ring because he wanted me to go with him and get exactly what I wanted. For two weeks, I wore a string he tied on my finger. Corny?? You bet!!! Special to me??? You have no idea!!!

There were those times when I would find a note on my car window, an extra bit of cash in my wallet with “no strings attached”, a closed door in the morning so I could sleep in, breakfast in bed with special foods that he knew I particularly liked, a clean house when I got home late, making the bed in the morning when I’m in a rush, and many more things that I couldn’t even begin to list here.

Of course there were flowers and chocolates, fancy dinners, and diamond rings mixed in between. But the most romantic thing my honey has ever done? That would be to take my hand, walk me to the alter, kneel across from me, look me in the eye, and tell me he would love me and cherish me for eternity in one simple word, “Yes.”

Well, with that being said. All I have to say is I’m sooo thankful that he was young, naive, and didn’t know what he was getting himself into. If he’d been able to read the fine print that said there were no refunds when the warranty ran out – you know what I mean, aching bones, gray hairs, lost memories, sagging and droopy body parts, wrinkles, arthritis, weight gain – ooohh, I better stop before I reveal all my deep, dark secrets – I wouldn’t be able to tell you that the most romantic thing now is when he still looks in my eyes, takes my hand, walks with me, kneels across the alter, and in doing so for another tells me he still loves and cherishes me forever. That is true romance!!!

Why does this always happen to me!!!

2009-01-22T19:48:00.000-08:00

Bad hair??? This cat's got nothin' on me!!!

Today was one of those days when you leave the house praying that there will not arise a situation where you will be seen in public. A simple drive to the school to drop off the kids. How adventurous can that be?

Procrastination is my fall back excuse -- which seems to get me into more trouble than I care to admit. But today was definitely one of those days when it bit me in the butt. I was out of gas. Now, you would think that I would have taken precautions before I left the house. I mean, how much more out of gas can you be when you are already on empty??

I made it to the school and spluttered to the gas station. Let me paint you a picture. I was in my pajamas, still had sleep in my eyes, MAJOR bed head, and halitosis that was killing bugs as they flew by. Bed head, you say. Well, that can't be any big deal. My current hairdo is the kind that you purposely stick up in the back. Can you imagine what it looked like after a night of tossing and turning (we won't even pretend there was any sleep in there).

To top it off, the gas cap on the car got stuck. So there I was in the rain, trying to get the gas cap off, the credit card swipe was beeping at me because it was telling me I had to pay inside, and I was not the only one at the pump. I'm the only one every other day, but today we were full.

A kind lady, who was probably snickering at the poor wretch came over to try and help me. She couldn't get the cap off so went over and asked the guy from the "coke" truck to come and help. While I was pathetically standing next to my car he came over and got the cap off. I could see his shoulders shaking as he walked back to his car. I wanted to throw the cap at him.

So, whenever you have a bad hair day -- here are a few pictures to help brighten your day.

I'm a dictator!

2009-01-16T13:13:00.000-08:00

They say you can learn quite a bit about yourself in a few minutes listening to your children and the way they talk to each other, play, etc. Today my eyes were opened.

On our way back from grocery shopping, a task that I detest and wait until the ribs on the kids are showing before I realize they really do need food to survive, McCade was playing quietly in the backseat with his pirate action figure. There were a lot of "aaarrgs" and "matees", crashing sounds, and all those wonderful noises that pirates make. Among the chaos I hear(in a very piratey voice), "And get your chores done or you will never leave this place."

The light has dawned, the mists have cleared, the horizon has come into focus. Kids don't get to leave home until they learn to get their chores done. What an amazing paradigm shift. All I have to do is teach my children to do their chores correctly and they are out of here!!!! No wonder it takes until they are 18 and then the parents kick them out because they figure if they haven't learned by now, they never will.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-13T12:07:00.001-08:00

I love to look at other's blogs. It helps me realize that I'm not as crazy as I think I am. Of course, ignorance is bliss.

On New Year's Eve, Karsten and I were invited to a murder/mystery dinner. It was great fun. Karsten was "Chubbie Cheddar", a rock star, and my character was "Barbie Q". Since I look so much like Barbie I felt the part was fitting. I was a recent divorcee, had an IQ of 140, had tons of money, and loved to wear my teenie-weenie, yellow, polka dot, bikini. I decided to foregoe the bikini as this was a dinner party and didn't want to ruin appetites, but had to go with the blonde. I wasn't the murderer, but I was definitely the "bomb".

No room at the inn!

2008-12-22T09:36:00.000-08:00

Last night I gained added insight into the nativity and the kids learned a thing or two.

We had combined with a couple of families to have a special family night. Shania and Andrew were the only two of our kids that made it to the event, but that is a whole different story and suffice it to say, we'll be trying again when behavior is better. Good luck!!!

Anyway, since we didn't have any little kids to play the parts the teenagers and older kids had to step in (they were thrilled to death) and the adults were playing the part of the innkeepers. The grandmother of one of the families was designated as the first innkeeper and the conversation began as such:

Knock on door

Innkeeper: Hello?

Joseph: Do you have any rooms?

Innkeeper: Are you married?

Joseph: Uhhhh . . . .

Innkeeper: Well, I guess I don't have any room.

We were laughing so hard we had to stop the whole production. And what was even funnier was the grandma just sat there with a smile on her face as if there wasn't a single problem with what she had said.

Things don't change and too bad you can't follow through in today's world as grandma did last night.

Dexter on the town!

2008-12-16T17:13:00.001-08:00

The kids dressed up Dexter and he was ready to take on the world.

You can tell he looks absolutely thrilled!!!

Onion body armor

2008-12-12T10:50:00.000-08:00

I usually refrain from advertising my good looks and otherwise covetous features. But, as many of you will want to adopt some of my fashion sense and beauty secrets I thought I would flatter myself just this once.

Deal of the Week!

2008-12-12T10:12:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but shopping has gotten me completely befuddled and wanting to stay clear of anything that requires shelling out money. Here it is how many days until Christmas? and I'm still trying to figure out what gifts I can get from the kids' extensive lists. It isn't that I don't have ideas or their lists are lacking, oh no!!! That would be the easy part.

Come here, we have the deal of the century -- oh did we forget to mention you have to sign all these contracts, deals, etc. before you get the good price. My store is better -- oh did we forget to mention we don't have the item in stock any more. What do you mean it costs how much???? It is plastic for crying out loud.

So, the battle goes on and you will find me on Christmas Eve frantically addressing gift cards because the hard drive of my brain just crashed and I am told there are no more upgrades for my model.

My Childhood Home

2008-11-21T15:21:00.000-08:00

My childhood home. It was a grand, old farmhouse. Located at 1297 Old Darby Road (later changed to 2811 Old Darby Road), Darby, Montana, was fondly nicknamed “The White House” – whether by envious neighbors or because of the many people coming and going didn’t matter. To me, it was a palace, an incredible masterpiece that demanded the attention of a four, year old wrapped in the world of make-believe.

It didn’t take long for the oil drum for the furnace outside the window of the family room to be changed into a giant horse, which when painted white to match the siding on the house became the white stallion that would save all the damsels in distress.

The steep, narrow stairs to the upstairs became a perfect “mountain” for those rainy or snowy days on pillowcases or cookie sheets. You took your life in your own hands if you happened to walk around the corner on one of our many sledding expeditions.

The balcony outside my parents’ bedroom hosted many a scene from Romeo and Juliet. Not to mention ways of “breaking” into the mansion when we inadvertently locked ourselves out while playing Sherlock Holmes.

The ¾ wrap around porch was the arena for all of our olympic skating events, basketball tournaments, circus performances on the metal railings, and hours of sanding and painting.

The plaster walls in our bedrooms became wonderful and exciting archaeological digs for those evenings when sleep wouldn’t come and we were to “entertain” ourselves quietly in our beds.

The dungeon, or root cellar, filled hours of imagination as we crawled through spider webs, mouse droppings, jumped from apple barrel to apple barrel, swung from nylons full of onions, and even nursed baby kittens found under the stairs.

I’m sure my parents never dreamed of the games of hide-and-seek in the dirty clothes in the laundry, racing around the “oval” the stairs made of the outside rooms as we screeched and yelled in games of tag, late nights with the older siblings listening to their stories which at times ended in broken windows, the broken tiles on the roof left as evidence of sneaking from room-to-room not in the house but outside on the overhang, or the wonderful telephone games we would play as we shouted to each other through the heater vents.

My childhood home was filled with smells of baking bread, delicious meals, music, laughter, a flurry of activity, loving parents, quiet moments of reading, gospel study, and happy memories. I love and miss my childhood home – even more now that I need to create one of my own.

Our Crowning Jewels!!

2008-11-18T20:01:00.001-08:00

Miffed and sniffing!!!!

2008-11-04T16:34:00.000-08:00

I am writing and getting a load off my chest -- I knew there was something there under all of that!!

I all want you to know the reason my blog is boring and pathetic looking. You see, my mentor has taken an unauthorized sabbatical. While I am here sweating and grimacing at this stupid computer, she is home being waited on hand and foot. Let me paint you a picture, thus helping you all feel my pain and suffering.

For a week she had servants selecting her menu, doing the shopping, and literally putting the food right in her body. Laundry??? We won't even go there. Sheets were changed, fresh towels provided, and her pillow plumped on demand. Royalty is what comes to mind when I think of the patience of the attendants even changing her clothes. She didn't even have to change the toilet paper roll. I even heard from the spider on the wall there were times she was so caught up in herself she had the hired help bring the bathroom facilities to her. Talk about first-rate service.

A nice, little, old lady came and would read to her, fix her hair, be her answering service, and even crocheted a blanket that she would wrap herself in.

When it was time for exercise, the machines were brought to her. I also heard from my "spider" that if my mentor decided she was too tired to exercise the hired help would push the machine for her. What will they think of next?

She has since relocated. She got tired of the hired help she originally had and has now moved on. Some people can be so ungrateful. She now lounges in bed and chats with her friends on the Internet. She will tell you she is homebound, but my "spider" told me she was seen carousing around the school during school hours.

So, here I sit. Wallowing in my incompetence. Completely lost and cursing. Don't you feel sorry for me?

Blast from the past!

2008-10-10T09:51:00.000-07:00

Last night I decided that I would try my culinary skills and invest in some time and effort in educating my children on the finer things of life. I searched my cookbooks, wrote down ingredients, went to the grocery store, searched the Internet on how to cook said ingredients, and then placed the delicacies in front of my children with a hopeful expression on my face. What could be better than pureed, butternut squash. Yummmy!!!!

Oh, this was going to be good. I could hardly wait for them to scoop the smooth, creamy, yellow vegetable into their watering mouths. The look of shear delight that would beam across their angelic faces as they let the flavors soak into their taste buds. The sounds of satisfaction with this new found taste as they would be asking for more. The suspense was almost killing me, but the anticipation was worth it.

But alas, my bubble was shattered. No looks of enjoyment from their beautiful faces. No ooohs and aaaahhhs as the flavors danced across their tongues. No jumping in line to get more. No praises for the efforts of their bedraggled mother. My ears were assaulted with gagging sounds. And then there were watering eyes, dry heaves, pinched noses, exclamations of disgust, and "Oh, Mom, this is so gross."

At last!!!! I have reached true motherhood. I went, I struggled, and I conquered. I feel true release from all the pain and suffering I felt as a child. I have reached a pinnacle of true bliss. No mother can truly feel the joy of laughing at their children's expense without having suffered first themselves. I feel I have passed on a legacy. From mother, to daughter, and then onto child. The cycle will continue. And . . . . I . . . . have come out the winner!!!! Oh, words cannot explain the deep satisfaction of knowing I have given my children an experience they will never forget. And, here I will now allow myself a cruel chuckle. Bring on the liver -- I can hardly wait!!!!

Remember, keep it simple!!

2008-10-07T09:47:00.000-07:00

Do you ever hear the phrases, "You are making things too complicated. Keep it simple."?? How many times have we fretted over a problem or situation only to have a simple solution presented by a third party? Last night was such an occasion.

I love math. It is straight forward, black and white, there is always a solution, and numbers do not lie -- until I went to BYU and learned about imaginary numbers and my world fell apart. But I digress.

Shania was working on finding functions for plotted points on a graph. The short of it is, if you have a number in the y-axis and a number in the x-axis, by finding the function you can find any number on either axis. Sounds simple, right? Actually, it is and I usually have a good time at it.

So, here we were with a bunch of numbers for "y" and a bunch of numbers for "x". Shania and I worked those numbers in so many different ways we were going crazy. After we tried multiplying, dividing, using fractions, exponents, and trying everything again, I finally told her we needed to call her teacher because we were definitely missing something and I was sure it was something simple.

Well, the telephone call was made and as it turns out, it was a simple subtraction problem. It was so simple. I can't wait to see her teacher today and have a good laugh over that one.

Simplicity -- life is simple, the gospel of Jesus Christ is simple, the simplest and easiest route is usually the quickest, problems broken down into simpler situations are easier -- simplicity.

Okay, so now I have to get my butt off this chair, go take a shower, finish getting dinner ready for this evening, finish my telephone calls for church, exercise, finish the laundry, go through my "to-do" list for today which I'm sure includes cleaning of house, get kids' uniforms and everything ready for soccer tonight, pick up kids, have piano lessons, do homework and reading with kids, and . . . . Did I forget anything? Simple!!!!

God's creation

2008-09-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

It never ceases to amaze me the beauties that surround us, if we would just open our eyes. I took Shania to Susanville (112 miles) for her soccer game today -- which their team won and she received the praise of her coach as being the only one that played her position perfectly -- brag, brag!!! But that wasn't what I wanted to write about.

As we drove over the mountain, I couldn't get enough of the magnificent, pine trees that lines the road. The leafing trees (I won't pretend that I know any of the names of any of the trees around here) were changing colors and the brilliant golds, reds, and yellows were scattered all through the forests. As I came up over different peaks and saw into the little valleys, I could see small streams or a couple of lakes that were tucked back away from the chaos of the road and cars that zoomed by.

Off in the distance, next to a grove of fallen trees I spotted a couple of deer. One was eating while the other was watching as sentinel.

How can anyone deny that there is a loving Heavenly Father and not marvel at the creation that He placed before us for our enjoyment? How can anyone say that there isn't a purpose for our existence or that we are not the crowning glory of His vast creations?

Yet, it has recently been brought to my attention that both Levi's and PG&E (Pacific Gas & Electric -- the big utility company here) are paying large sums of money to defeat the bill to protect marriage. The opposite of what this bill stands for that will violate the ultimate gift that can be given to all mankind.

When one steps back and looks at the grand scheme of the universe or even the little ant that walks through the grass in the yard, if that person would stop and let the spirit whisper to his heart, there is no denying our Heavenly Father exists, our Saviour, Jesus Christ, helped to create all of this Earth for us, and wants us to return to live with Him again.

A humbling thought when we realize that not only has He given this to us, but He can take it away. I can't imagine the pain our Heavenly Father must feel at the misunderstandings and abuse that we allow the adversary to introduce into our lives.

I'm thankful for those quiet moments when I can reflect on the love of Jesus Christ and the assurance that floods my mind knowing I can have faith in Him and turn to Him, working toward returning to Him someday.

Dad, but I need . . . .

2008-09-06T15:21:00.000-07:00

Oh, the injustice. The long explanations and reasoning behind each detail. The mournful pleas and countless ways of trying to explain the same thing. Only to be confronted each time with . . . "Do you NEED it or do you WANT it? Well, in that case, you can't have it." The fastest way to lose it all was to profess the dying need for something.

To the hormone clouded mind, there was no difference. If you want it, doesn't it mean you need it to soothe your feverish desires to fit in and be part of every one else. Of course, every one else had it or was doing it -- that is what it was all about. Never mind the sensibility of each request. The important thing was the need.

How could parents be so insensitive to their children's needs? If they really loved them, the parents would see to it the child had all of those much needed and important things. Yet, in the end, all the kids heard was how much they would thank their parents when they had their own. Yeah, right!!!!

Well, a million years later, here I am and just the other day I about fell off my chair. "Son, do you really NEED it or do you just WANT it? Now, really think about it. What is the truth? Do you need help figuring it out?" Yikes!!! Where did that come from? I swore I would never say or do those things. Alas, the more I "mature" the more I realize how like my parents I am becoming. I thank my Heavenly Father daily that I had good parents that I could become like.

So, good luck kids. You don't have a prayer of a chance. I learned from the best and they say each generation gets better than the last. That should mean I'm just about perfect -- hee, hee!!

Lightening -- the true purpose

2008-08-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

I have geniuses living in my house. Our conversations revolve around such deep subjects as the reason those "air men" that are outside car dealerships have to have the air blown into them all the time so they won't deflate, why it would be better to have a snake instead of a turtle, the mechanics of a mechanical pencil and the logic behind it being better than the ones that need to be sharpened, and other mind blowing subjects like how the booger got on the door.

Yet, it never ceases to amaze me how these little minds work and the logic that is used to explain phenomenons that don't seem to serve any purpose. The other day I was driving with McCade and there was a plume of smoke from a fire in front of us. We were discussing how the fire got started. McCade, with all the wisdom of a 4 year old, said, "It was caused by lightening."

"Really," I replied.

"Yes. And did you know why we have lightening? It is because Heavenly Father is cleaning up."

And, there you have it. A true mark of brilliance.

Shirly Temple has nothing on my princess!!!

2008-08-15T21:10:00.000-07:00

Drum roll please . . . .

Isn't she the cutest thing you've ever seen?

I won't even begin to tell you how long this took.

Check out those curls!!

Work it girl!!!

Now for the throne . . . .

Check out the toilet paper . . .

Don't miss the torn jeans . . . .

This is definitely high class!!!

Now enters the prince . . . .

Sweet, sweet, sweet!!!

And they lived happily ever after.

School supplies

2008-08-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

Back in the day . . . you know which ones I'm talking about. Walk up hill both ways, wind blowing in our faces, snow ten feet deep, bare foot, etc., etc. Life was much simpler. A couple of pencils, notebook, maybe a box of crayons, glue that you were told not to eat -- or sniff, those great erasers you could stick on the end of your pencils, and if you were older and more "mature" you could sneak in a pen. Your one electronic device in the "later years" was a basic calculator and it was pretty cool if it had a memory on it.

Remember the "trapper keeper"??? That was high tech and you were a nerd if you didn't have one. Glue sticks!!! That was an amazing invention and everyone scrambled to be the first to have one in their school paraphernalia. Not to mention the deluxe box of crayons with its own sharpener in the back.

Got the list from the school for the kids' supplies. What happened to the neat little box of crayola crayons? Now you have to have the ones that don't crumble, stain, can be erased, only mark on specially designed paper, have a computer chip in them that won't work if you take your neighbor's, sharpen by themselves, digitally tell you what colors you are creating when you mix them, have voice commands to tell you when you are running out, and downloads to a million Internet sites or nearest store for the cheapest price to purchase new ones.

A flash drive with a lanyard? What in the world is that? I realize I am a dinosaur in the space age, but what's next? Individual laptops with wireless connections to the Internet and teleport stations? What happened to simplicity?

I am sooo old school. I believe in a little elbow grease and "wrinkle" brow research. Got a subject to study? Good!!! Pull out the encyclopedias, reference books, trip to the Library, and good ole' communication. After, back it up with the Internet. Math problem? Take it to the pencil and paper. Work it out, scratch it out, go through a ream of paper, whatever it takes. Figure out the answer and why, then take it to the calculator.

My kids are so deprived. What they wouldn't give for a "new" age mom!! Stuck in the dark ages. They should be thanking their lucky stars -- I just allowed them to have electricity. What am I going to have to give them next?

I'm a Princess!!!!

2008-08-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

Which Disney Princess Are You?

You Are Ariel!

Headstrong and fiesty. You have a mind of your own that's full of romantic dreams about the world around you. Exploring exotic places is your ultimate dream, and although you can be a little naive you'll realize that there is something to be gained from your family's wisdom.

Following the prophet -- at all costs . . . .

2008-08-04T10:52:00.001-07:00

Some people say they have a green thumb. Others say theirs is a slight shade of purple. And others will confess their thumb is closer to the color black. If a black thumb means your gardening is less than par, what possible colors can be left for those of us that can't even grow dirt???

I tried to do as I was told. I planted at the right time. There were tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, peppers, and carrots. I even planted things that technically shouldn't grow in our hot climate. Our lettuce deteriorated on the spot -- no surprise there. My peas thrived for about a month and then succumbed to the harsh realities of nature.

Yet, as often happens to me, not only did I not get a single tomato and as you can see my cucumber plants have definitely seen better days, the only "harvest" I was able to squeeze out of my pathetic garden was four winter peas.

Yes, you read correctly. In a climate where vegetables like peppers, beans, and cucumbers thrive on heat -- I have failed. And vegetables that shouldn't even break the surface in the glaring heat of the sun brought forth their best and gave me a couple of winter peas to enjoy.

Mother nature is cruel. If it isn't my lack of gardening thumbs, it is the jack rabbits. But, I planted. My family will starve if we ever need to rely on my "skills", but I will prevail and try again . . . . . . later!!!

AAAAHHHH -- Who let that in the house????

2008-08-04T10:42:00.001-07:00

Can you believe this? You turn your back for just a minute and the riff-raff thinks it can move in!!!! Honestly, do I really have to clean up behind all the appliances? I thought if you ignores it, then it wasn't there.

Visions of Portugal, sewers in the streets, torrential rains, and many other creepy crawlers haunt my dreams!! Who needs exotic destinations, rainforests, humid jungles? Just come and visit our house. But beware -- I don't divulge what is in the soup!!!

The results are in!!!

2008-07-26T17:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, the amazing results are in. Drum roll please . . . . . . I finished!!!! Well, that wasn't too exciting, but considering the fact that I haven't been exercising more than a couple of times in the past month, I feel pretty darn good about my results.

Now for you real triathaloners the Lite is really just a sneeze. But for us beginners, it was a real eye opener. My first realization came when I learned that the place at which I exercise lied to me about the length of their pool. They told me it was 25 m. When I got to the place this morning I thought the pool I would be swimming in must be 50 m because it was sooo big. I calculated we would be doing 5 laps, no biggy. Only to be told that it was really 25 m and we would be swimming 9 laps -- I about hyperventilated on the spot. I told myself it couldn't be that bad. I swim for an hour at a time. We had to be done in 10 minutes, can't be that hard.

Realization #2 -- I had never shared a lane with another person before.

Realization #3 -- Where here I thought I was a good swimmer, I got lapped by my lane partner. Do you know what an energy drain it is to watch your lane partner get out of the pool and realize you still have another lap to go? I can swim, but apparently not very fast!!

Realization #4 -- Trying to put on spandex shorts after you swim is a not a good idea. I got my toes caught in one of the legs and about fell over trying to shove my foot through the fabric. Doesn't work!!! It just continues to stretch.

Realization #5 -- I put my shoes out by the bike and if you walk to your bike with wet feet in the dirt and stickers, putting your shoes on is a major problem.

Realization #6 -- There is a HUGE difference between a mountain bike and a road bike. I know, my eyes are still burning from the wind as those road bikers went flying past.

Realization #7 --The bike ride for me was definitely the easy part. Getting off the bike and trying to stand up and try running takes an incredible amount of coordination.

Realization #8 -- Whoever said the transition from riding the bike to running is difficult, LIED!!! It is dreadful and absolutely mind boggling. I felt like my legs were rubber and were numb for the first 100 yards.

Realization #9 -- There is an end to every race and the finish line stays in one place, even if it feels they had to have moved it.

Realization #10 -- I had a great time, loved it, and can't wait to do another one. Of course, now that I know what to expect and I can prepare better.

Honestly though, I really had a good time. I wanted to do this for fun and to finish. The first person across the finish line did it in 21 minutes. The time for the first female was 27 minutes. I crossed in 38.12 minutes. Not too bad. There were about 50 entries of which at least 40 were young enough to be my children. Of the ones in my age group (they didn't separate out) I think I finished right up there.

I'm proud of myself and look forward to another one. For those of you that are thinking of it, get out there. For those of you that are experienced and run the sprint or more, even if it is only one or two, my hat is off to you. I look forward to one day being among you.

A ghostly realm . . .

2008-07-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

A peaceful setting . . . . All looks well . . . . Tucked in for the night . . . .

Where are the people????

Morgan: "They're ghosts, Mom." Who needs dolls and barbies?
Just a couple of pieces of clothes and we're happy as clams.

The world we live in!

2008-07-22T09:12:00.000-07:00

I don't write much. Frankly, my life is pretty mundane and boring. Not to mention the fact that my computer is at the back of the house and if I sit down and face the screen little sirens go off in the kids' heads indicating that mom is out of the room and therefore they think they have full reign of the house. Never a good combination!!

This morning, I couldn't let this opportunity slip by. The kids are drooling comatose in front of the television watching some pointless brain drain. If I make this quick, they won't even know I'm gone.

For those of you that don't live in California the politics of our "fabulous" state may not have come to your attention. Then again, if you are living in one of those 25 states waiting with baited breath for the outcome of our election, then you are very much aware of the international dilemma facing us as voters. I say international because it will affect all of us worldwide. What is that you ask? We are getting ready to vote on one of the most devastating items of our time -- gay marriage.

In 2000 this bill came up on the ballots and was shot down, only by a small margin, but it was shot down nonetheless. It has now come up again because the Supreme Court overruled the previous ruling. The ramifications are beyond my scope of understanding. Sunday, our Bishop came in to Relief Society and Priesthood and spoke to us about the concern the Church has for the outcome of this vote here in California. He said that never before has he seen the Church take such a public stand on any issue before and we will be asked as members of the Church to stand up and make our beliefs known. The Church is asking us to get politically involved and do all we can to stop this bill from making it on the ballots in November. When this item came up previously, other religious denominations were against it but financially didn't want to get involved. This time, they are offering their support. I fear it might be too late.

It's just a "gay marriage bill" you say. Yes, it is wrong, but what harm can it do to the Church? The Bishop talked to us extensively about a meeting he had with stake presidents and area authorities this past week about what this bill truly means and what they are trying to push through. If this bill passes here in California, not only will 25 other states who are waiting for the outcome will pass the bill, but the bill wants to legalize gay marriage and it will put a mandate against denying marriage to gays on every official that is authorized to perform marriages. That includes all faiths, yes the LDS faith as well. Legally, they will be able to attack our complete belief system. Our bishop expressed his deepest feelings about what this could mean for each priesthood holder that may be asked to perform a gay marriage. I am sure there are other areas of this topic that haven't been shared with us and may be shared in the future.

We are definitely living it the last days. Countless times we have heard from the brethren about strengthening home and families against the onslaught of the adversary. More than ever, I feel the need to protect our families and all that we hold dear. We hear that the downfall of nations begins with breakdown of families. Not that this is the beginning of the breakdown of families, but I fear that California is on the brink of tipping the scales to non-reparable damage. The waves of devastation will be felt throughout the world.

Please keep us in your prayers. We will need the faith and prayers of everyone to keep this from moving forward.

We train 'em early

2008-06-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

We have been taught to teach our children to work. We have been taught not to give handouts to our children -- they need to put forth an honest effort to get a return on their investment. We here in Redding, CA believe in this principle and feel strongly in teaching our children when they are young. In fact, we hold nothing back. Call it slave labor, if you wish. We call it preparing for the future. Someone has to debug those darn trees!!!!

California Cowboys

2008-06-29T21:54:00.000-07:00

You remember Wayne Archambo (can't remember how to spell the name) that lived above us in Darby? His comment was, "Big hat, no cows." Love that saying. I would love to hear his comment on this one!!! Cutest dang "cowboys" I ever did see though.

Simple mathematics!

2008-05-29T09:01:00.001-07:00

Here's a real kick in the pants. I learned that to gain 1 pound you have to eat 3500 more calories than you burn off in one day. On the flip side, to LOSE 1 pound you have to burn 3500 more calories than you eat in one day.

Simple math really, but I could have sworn to gain a pound it requires a sniff and to lose a pound you had to eat carrots and lettuce, workout all day, avoid all appearances of enjoying food, plug your nose whenever you saw something that might taste good, always walk everywhere you go, never sit down and stop thinking because your metabolism will shut down, sleep on the treadmill, then get off the treadmill, shower, and start your day all over again.

Who knew? All I have to do is burn 3500 more calories than I eat. Oh vey!!! I'm already behind.

Yeah!!! It's raining!!!

2008-05-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to blessed rain. It isn't often that I get excited for cloudy skies and rainy weather. I mean, after all, the kids will be in the house all day driving me and each other absolutely crazy. But at this time, we are in desperate need of moisture. I realize that a couple drops of the wet stuff isn't going to do too much to nourish the parched earth, but we'll take everything we can get. When I look out my window and see the brown grass, the cracked dirt, and dying flowers I'm thankful that we are getting a small reprieve from the scorching sun.

Okay, truth be told, I am the one getting the reprieve. This means I don't have to water my garden, my flowers might have a fighting chance, and the dead "grass" (more like weeds) is getting the attention it deserves. Oh, wonderful rain!!! Now I can go back to bed and ignore my duties.

Sundays -- what is it about Sundays!!!

2008-05-18T21:54:00.001-07:00

Now I realize this might come as complete shock to most of you, but I have to admit that I'm struggling with the whole "Sunday" thing. I know, knock me right off the pedestal.

Honestly though. I spend hours trying to prepare throughout the week. I read the lessons, try to think happy thoughts, get geared up and say this Sunday will be different, try to prepare the house, etc., etc., etc. Sunday morning rolls around and the circus begins. Our church doesn't begin until 1:00 p.m. Problem numero uno (I know I'm sinking to a Spanish low, but it doesn't sound as good in Portuguese). How do you keep the Sabbath spirit all morning with the kids? Then there is the bathing, dressing, making sure they have lunch without spilling on their clothes, changing the clothes, run out the door (you'd think we'd be on time . . . . after all we've had ALL morning), and rush to find our seats.

Next, show time. The kids are hungry (Did I bring snacks? No, we just ate!!), they don't like who they are sitting next to, musical chairs begin as they try and negotiate a new position on the bench, the bag that's packed isn't "interesting" enough and it is more fun to bother the closest sibling, they try and snag a "meal" from the sacrament tray, etc., etc., etc.

By the time the meeting is over, the parents look like they've been through a tornado. Forget any hairdo or make-up that might have been in place when you left the house. That is long gone. The clothes are a wrinkled mess and the bench looks like Hurricane Andrew crashed through. I look over at Karsten and wonder why in the world do I do this to myself every single week. Did we get anything out of that?

And it doesn't stop there. Oh, no. We still have the afternoon/evening to come home to. My nice clean house doesn't exist (I swear Gremlins live in my house and trash it while we are at church), the kids are too hungry to wait for dinner and therefore the dinner isn't eaten when it is made, all the pent-up energy explodes as we get in the door, and I'm thinking to myself, "Okay, the Sabbath is a day of rest, a day of worship, of recharging ones' "batteries", and gearing up for the following week." HOW COME IT KEEPS MISSING MY HOUSE?????

Out in the Wild!!!

2008-05-14T15:55:00.001-07:00

The kids had their school camping trip this weekend at Whiskeytown Lake.

OOOOhhhhh baby! As Kaela said, "You look like a super model, Mom." Ignorance is DEFINITELY bliss.

Morgan in her painting class by the lake.

Morgan & McCade helping Daddy guide the canoe.

Drum roll please . . . . yes, that is me in the back of that kayak with Kaela and Andrew.

Andrew conquerors the lake.

Kaela taking a much needed rest on our hike of Shasta Bally
(1.5 miles with 2000 vertical feet -- and we that was only a 1/4 of the way up).

Our hiking group taking a rest with Shania in the long, sleeve red shirt.
She was worried about sunburn (according to her mom).

Logan is proof of a successful camping trip.

Diminishing mental capacity

2008-05-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

I am really struggling with this whole "mind" thing. I h ave heard countless explanations for my lack of mental abilities. Everything ranging from age, kids, to "I didn't have it in the first place". But seriously, what is happening to me? I can't keep anything straight anymore. I can't remember something more than a few minutes. And forget about multi-tasking!!! I was queen at doing a million things at once. I am now doing the "pick something out of the refrigerator and can't remember if I was using it or putting it back" syndrome. I'm making light of the situation, but truthfully, it is exhausting me and making it very difficult to have a positive outlook on life.

No Dog = more work

2008-05-01T18:06:00.000-07:00

Who knew??? I mean, here I was thinking that my life would be so much easier and have so much more time on my hands once Tasha found a new home. That is not so. What has occurred to me is how much Tasha really helped in the house cleaning department. Since she has been gone, I have spent more time sweeping my floors, vacuuming my rugs, picking up food items (which were never supposed to leave the kitchen), scraping dishes before they go in the dishwasher (just kidding!!!), and not to mention worrying about food dropped. Before I could just look at it and know that "hoover" would be along shortly to rake in the spoils. Albeit I now have more brain space in which my thoughts can get lost now that I don't have to constantly be on guard as to where Tasha is. I do have to say that I discovered the mystery of her incredible weight gain and dislike for her own food. So, thanks to the earthquake knocking all the dust off the ceiling, etc. I now have to wear goo-gone on the bottom of my feet to keep them from sticking to the floors. Where is Tasha now that I REALLY do need her????

Blasted earthquake!!!!

2008-04-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

Last night, I was reading and minding my own business when I could have sworn my ceiling was caving in. It all started with a slight shaking of my couch, which I yelled at the kids for disturbing my reading only to remember they were all in bed and couldn't have bumped the couch. I looked up and was attacked by huge, killer dust bombs. After gasping, panting, and flailing my arms to ward off this onslaught of enemy artillery I rolled out of my blanket cocoon and huddled on the floor. "Did you feel the earthquake?", Karsten yelled from the back room. Oh great, now my house is going to fall down.

It's bad enough when you shuffle down the halls of the house and realize the only reason you can't pick up the pace is because all of your energy is being spent lifting your feet above the rising tide of debris left by well-intentioned children. Now I have to worry about my house falling down because the dust that is holding everything together is being jarred loose by offending earthquakes.

I had nightmares last night. You would have thought it was about the building falling on my children and wondering if laying next to their beds would be a safe place. You know you read about the places to be when an earthquake hits and one of them is next to furniture so when things fall they can lay on an open space. No, those weren't my nightmares. Mine involved mountains of dust that would sift down through the cracks. Have you ever seen the movies of volcanoes and the dust that is in the air? That would be my house.

I don't believe the earthquake last night was a sign to me that I need to get my food storage, etc. in order. No, actually, it was more of a sign that if I don't get my house clean I wont' be able to find my kids without a bulldozer. And just when I was beginning to enjoy my book!!!!

Sophistication at it's finest!!

2008-04-18T14:50:00.001-07:00

Now, you do have to realize that we were raised in a very proper home, learned all the forms of etiquette, and therefore are considered the most refined and polished young ladies. Our every action and mannerism drips with the poise and grace that so defines our lives. Our husbands adore us and our children can't wait to grow up and be just like us.

I've made it!!!!

2008-04-15T13:06:00.000-07:00

Miracles never cease. As my kids say, "Welcome to the twentieth-century, Mom." Of course, I couldn't have done this without my sister, Madusa. So, if there are any errors or things that look funny or don't make any sense -- it is all HER fault.