Sentiments by Sophia

dotdotdot

I put on some walking/exercise pants today instead of a robe and feel like that was major progress.  For the most part, I've spent the last three days lying in the Lazy Boy.   I've slept a lot and know way too much about the Casey Anthony trial.  Wendy, Mom and Doug have taken care of the kids and meals.  I have an appointment with the surgeon on Tuesday and we will see what happens from there.  After looking at my tests, my doctor bypassed the gastro doctor and sent me straight to the surgeon.  What that means, I have no idea.  In the meantime, I'm grateful for friends, my mom and Doug, who are taking care of things. I'll be spending the next few days right where I have been.  I had to laugh this morning when it hit me... It was July 6th when I had that emergent surgery three summers ago.  I see the surgeon this year on July 6th.  Let's pray for a no-repeat!  In the meantime, the good news is that I've probably lost ten pounds since Monday morning.  Thanks for the continued prayers and good thoughts.

A strong positive attitude will create more miracles than any wonder drug.

another day off

Still down with whatever this is.  Taking another day off.  Thanks so much for the thoughtful messages.  I'll be back soon.

Short and sweet entry today.  I spent last night in the hospital.  Sparing details, let's just say that yesterday, I was S-I-C-K.  I've reached this point that I was actually hoping for it to be my gallbladder because then they could remove it and I could start feeling better.  But, that wasn't in the cards last night.  Whatever this issue is, we need answers so I can stop feeling "fluish" so often.  Who knows?  Another learning and growth opportunity.  Wonder what the lesson will be from this?  No Chili's today. Be back tomorrow. 

officially official

Liza and Buddy arrived home last night from Phoenix.  It couldn't be any more official than this...They took down their truck loaded with stuff, just in case.  They rented a storage unit and left their belongings there in Arizona.  They found an apartment that Liza is quite excited about and made a deposit on it and signed a year contract.  Buddy registered for all of his classes.  He accepted the scholarship, which means some sort of commitment, I'd say.  They found their LDS ward to be and also attended the Mesa LDS Temple. Liza was in heavenwith the 118 degree temperatures.  Buddy isn't a fan of heat, but he's happy as long as they have airconditioning.  But, regardless of the temperature, about four weeks, Liza, Buddy and Oops will be Arizona residents. 

I enjoyed every minute of our hour long report about their trip.  One of my favorite things is watching Liza and  Buddy.  They are very happily in love and they compliment each other in personality.  Watching them tell a story always entertains me.  So, listening to their Arizona adventure and seeing their enthusiasm about this move brought me joy.  We also are already planning our Arizona vacation for next spring already.  We're all going to have some adjustments to make, and I'm sure that there are still plenty of tears to be shed, but we are all excited about this move.  

I had to post this photo of Oops when Liza and Buddy came home. We'd tended him and he had been quite nervous about them leaving him with a truck load of their belongings.  He's almost 14 years old. He's a very sober and mellow dog, but he was one happy camper to see Liza and Buddy come home.  He was literally smiling for over an hour and was thrilled to go home with them.  Too funny.

The rest of our weekend included making pulled pork for ninety people.  It was delish!  I spent every other moment studying my Relief Society lesson, which went well.  Doug spent most of his time in the pool with the kids or in the garden.  We're getting strawberries every day, for our first season.  HAPPINESS!!  ZJ picks about this many twice a day. They melt in your mouth!  I do love summertime!

This week promises to be busy and even a bit crazy.   Lots going on.  I've had yet another stomach bug since 5AM.  Doug says it's time to see a doctor.  UGH.  Not really looking forward to that, but this is getting old.  Life is good...even with upset tummies.

If you want to be happy, be.

 

summer

 There's more to life than increasing it's speed.

Soapbox time... Say so. What's it going to hurt?

Previously posted in August 2007
 

I've mentioned before my sister-in-law's beautiful garden. There is only one word to describe it and that word is inspirational.  I never leave her garden that I don't feel inspired by her amazing green thumb, motivated to do something more in my own garden or without thinking of this beautiful world we are blessed to live in.

My friend, Sally, who is a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir has been blessed with the most amazing, beautiful voice. Last year, Sally sang simple Primary Children's song called, "As I have loved you, love one another" in my kitchen with our little lunch bunch. We were all in tears before she was done.  She's truly gifted.

Another friend, Linda, has a knack for decorating and she has the means to enjoy her expensive talent!  Our tastes are quite similar, which makes her gift even more appealing to me. Linda always motivates me to rearrange a room in my home, to relocate my "what-nots", as Grannie always called them or to be more creative. Linda has passed this talent on to her two beautiful daughters, as well, and is generous to a fault in sharing with others.

Of these three friends, I can look at each one and say that when God was handing out talents, someone jiggled his elbow because they've each been blessed abundantly.

Recently, a friend shared one of their "talents" with another friend. Rather than the other friend saying, "WOW!", they said something like, "Oh, I can't do anything like that...Now, I'm depressed because mine's not this good...How would it be?"  There came no praise or enthusiasm, only a little self-loathing.  As I heard this story, I became really, really bothered. I'm stepping up on my soapbox.  Can you feel it coming? 

I believe that withholding praise is a cardinal sin in relationships that we commit against ourselves.  I remember reading once, years ago, that to withhold praise is cheating the person deserving of the praise, but that even more so, it is cheating yourself of an opportunity to serve.   How great does it feel to know that we are helping someone else feel good?!  Visiting Linda's home without oohing and aahing over her latest decorating spree...walking through Barbie's garden without expressing gratitude for her ability to create something beautiful or delectable... feeling those warm goosebumps up and down my spine when Sally sings and not expressing appreciation for the experience would be to self-depriving.  I believe this with all my heart!  When someone does well, say so!  When someone succeeds, congratulate them! When someone looks great, tell them!  It makes their day and you feel better too for having done so.

There's a gal in my ward who I think has the "it factor". She wears just the right shoes with just the right outfit and just the right jewelry all the time.  Her hair is always done in some fun style.  She's bubbly and has a great body and is as cute as can be.  Would I love to dress like her?  Absolutely!  Would I love her hair?  I'd give up my iPod for it!  Would I love her fun personality?  OH, YES!  She's adorable and from my perspective, everyone loves her to death!  I have to admit that when I see her, there's always this little twinge of "How would it be?!" but and it's a BIG BUT... BUT, I decided long ago to embrace her "awesomeness" and become friends rather than sit off in the distance "wishing" to be more like her or resenting her "it factor".  And from that embracing, we've become friends, so I get the benefit of being around her even more.  I realized years ago that sitting in the corner and being jealous or resentful that she (in this case, but it could be any other scenario) had it all would do me no good whatsoever. 

Bottom line...When someone has been blessed with a talent you may be missing, embrace it and enjoy their gifts!  It's painless. And it's soooo beneficial!  Regardless of the tangible rewards, it is those little "attaboys" that are remembered and can make the difference. Think of how great it felt the last time someone told you what a great job you'd done on something!  Enough said.  Stepping down now.

We increase whatever we praise.  

epiphany

So, I had an epiphany.  I didn't like it, but I had it.  Yesterday morning, Liza and Buddy headed to Phoenix for a few days to do some house hunting, job searching, just to check it out and see if they love it enough to pick up their lives and move there for Buddy to go to school.  She dropped Oops,their pooch, by for us to tend while they are gone.  We hugged goodbye and I smiled until she left.  I was sick.  Everytime I thought about it, I'd immediately pull my famous "Scarlett Ohara" line self-talk, "I won't think about that today.  I'll think about that tomorrow."  I'd tear up.  I'd get upset.  I'd tear up some more.  And then... I got this text.   They were crossing into Arizona.  (And making good time, I noticed.)

 

I could feel Liza's excitement.  My heart softened.  Then, a while later, I got this one.  When I got this one, I thought, EEWWWW.  WHY would you want to move there!?

 

Later in the day, I got this.  I thought, "WOW!!  THAT's beautiful!"  They got to see the Grand Canyon!  But, then I crankily thought, "They could do that on any vacation.  They don't have to move there to see it."  Grrrr.

 

Then I got this one, and my heart melted.  I knew that it was time for me to "put on my big girl panties", quit my whining and self-pity and be excited for my daughter's new adventures in life!  I couldn't stop looking at the picture.  Does Liza look happy or what?

 

Carol and I met at Chili's for dinner shortly after this text came.  She's been on vacation.  We were catching up on each others'  lives and all that's happened in the past two weeks.  I told her that Liza and Buddy were on their way to Phoenix.  Her immediate response was "I'm so sorry."  Then she got a big grin and said, "We're going to Phoenix next winter!!  Woohoo!"  This was the first time that I really got excited about this news.  We can head south in the winter for fun and games together.  Happiness!

Finally, I got this last text.

 

I called Liza on my way home from Chili's.  They were just driving past a road sign that said, "Entering Phoenix City Limits".  (Yes, Carol and I were at Chili's for over two hours gabbing.) I can honestly say that I was happy for them.  For the first time.  Really happy.  I asked for permission to share the photo of her and Buddy at the Grand Canyon.  She wasn't too thrilled about it.  But.  I am opting, for the first time ever, to disregard her wishes about publishing about Liza's life on my blog. (I always ask for her permission first, to respect their privacy.) She said that it wasn't a good picture.  BUT.  Look at that photo. She's beautiful.  She's so in love with Buddy.  They love their life together.  They are excited for their future.  She looks amazing! 

And so, this morning, I'm honestly and truly happy about their move.  Of course, my heart will break in two the day that they leave.  I'll probably cry a thousand times between now and then.  But, I'm going to hold onto these feelings that I'm having today, looking forward to visiting them in Sunny Arizona when it's 12 below zero here in Cache Valley.  I'm proud of Buddy's efforts to be his best, excited for their future, most grateful for my daughter's happiness.  If they come home on Monday and say that they chose not to stay, I'll be thrilled.   But, at this point, I'll be almost as happy that they are going!  Enough said.

The bamboo that bends is stronger than the oak that resists.

silly me

I'm such a dork.  Yesterday, I was on the phone talking with a friend.  I'd had a tuna sandwich for lunch.  I'm not a big fan of tuna and it's not a big fan of me.  I thought that I could quietly and quickly brush my teeth while we were on the phone.  (Bad manners, I know, but seriously, I needed to and I was going to do it discreetly.)   I quickly grabbed my toothbrush and then the little travel toothpaste without looking.  I squeezed. I watered.  I started brushing.  I started gagging.  And gagging.  I immediately rinsed and started gargling and trying to get the nasty taste out of my mouth.  I told Katie and she was laughing.  I went back to the drawer and picked up what I'd thought to be toothpaste.  It was anti-itch cream with Melalueca oil in it!!!  Can you say nasty!?  Doug thought it was the funniest thing I've done in years.  It always makes me laugh when he says "silly girl.
 
 

I had a few requests for my lemon bar recipe.  This is the best lemon bar recipe I've ever found.  Since they are Mom's favorite, I needed a good one!  I used to have them turn out about half the time until I discovered this recipe.  It's quick and easy. Make sure to preheat the oven first!

2 cups flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
pinch of salt
3/4 cup butter
2 tsp. cold water

Preheat the oven to 350.  Sift the flower, powdered sugar and salt into a mixing bowl.  Add the butter.  If it's cold butter, use a cheese shredder to shred it into the mix.  OR soften the butter first, but do not melt!  Add the water and toss lightly until the mixture forms a ball.  Press the mixture into a 9x13" baking dish.  Bake for 15 minutes or until golden.  Remove from the oven and place the pan on a baking rack.

4 eggs
2 cups sugar
2 Tbsp. flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp.grated lemon rind
1/4 cup lemon juice

Beat the eggs, fugar, flour, baking powder, lemon rind and juice until sugar is frothy.  Pour the lemon mixutre over the hot crust.  Return to the oven and bake for 25 minutes.  Allow to cool in the baking dish, again placed on a wire rack.  Gently sprinkle with powdered sugar.  Cut the squares when they have cooled a bit. 

The kids are loving the pool.  I figured that they'd stay in that cold water for a few minutes and be out but yesterday, they were in for almost three hours.  The fact that the water is 74 degrees doesn't bother them at all!  I'll be waiting another week or two, thank you!  But, we've got some serious hot weather for the next two weeks in the forecast, so it won't be long! 

Today, I'm shopping for all of the things I'll need to prepare pulled pork for almost 100 people this weekend.  The kids can't wait for the afternoon heat so that they can get into the pool.  My Relief Society President came by this morning and we both commented on how it has, literally, only been the last two days that it finally feels like summer! HAPPINESS!  Life is good!

Blessed are those who can give without remembering
and take without forgetting.

FINALLY!!!

ZJ was so anxious yesterday.  I'd promised that when the temp got up to 80 degrees, they could swim.  ONLY because ZJ had checked my iPhone for the temp about every fifteen minutes, and when it got up to 67, she was sure that it was going to happen... Four hours later, at 76 degrees, I caved!  They got in and shivered and shook and screamed and had a ball!  That was all that mattered!  Gosh, it was fun to hear those squeals again!  Summer is much too short in Cache Valley!

We took lemon bars and a gift down to Mom's just before dinner.  It was our version of a birthday party for Mom.  The kids decided to spend the night with Nana so that she could keep celebrating.  (I think she was just fine on her own, but they insisted on "helping her". )  It's nice to have Mom so close.  The bigs never had that with her.  Anyway, one last HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NANA!

Over the past few weeks, I've not shared any recipes, very few sentiments, no great new ideas. You'd think it was the end of the school year/beginning of summer or something. So, this morning, I thought that it was about time!  Here's a great idea from Carol's sister, my hero, MaryAnn.  This little "book bag" was filled with chocolates.  What a great idea for an inexpensive and fun gift.  You could fill it with movie tickets, a gift card, candy, you name it, depending on the size of your bag.  

It's a simple task:  Find an old book with the linen type cover.   Using an exacto knife, carefully separate the binding and pages from the front and back of the book.  Using a hot glue gun, attach a wide piece of  heavy ribbon or uphostery trim on the sides and bottom of the book covers.  Add ribbon handles (not to be used for carrying unless attached pretty heavy duty) and embellish.  Isn't this fabulous?!

Gracie's chomping at the bit for a game of Trim!   Life is good!

The purpose of life is not to be happy -
but to matter, to be productive, to be useful,
to have it make some difference that you have lived at all. 

tuesday!

I was so excited to get Brooke's photos!  She took these last week and entered them into a contest for the Summerfest Art Faire.

Feel free to check out the others on Brooke's site!  She's amazing!  I'm always thrilled when the caller ID says Brooke's name in hopes that she needs models!  Woohoooo!

Today is Mom's 72nd birthday.  She's already been over to bring the babes their birthday presents.  She gives gifts for her birthday instead of receiving.  This afternoon, I'll bake her favorite Lemon Bars and we'll take them down with a gift when Doug comes home.  She doesn't ask for much.  It's great to have Mom nearby and to think that she is doing so well after her cancer!  Happy Birthday, Ruby!

Today, also, the temperature should get up to 80 degrees, which is the magic number for when the kids can get into the pool.  ZJ keeps checking my phone for the temp.  I'm sure that it will be about 4 before it gets that warm but they can't wait!  Summer is finally here!  This week, we may even see the upper 80s!  Happiness!

Life is good!

Love one another.

dads, sons, fun

Father's Day:  This was probably the most quiet Fathers Day at our home in years.  Phone calls from Kelly (she had to work) and Dale, a short visit from Liza and Buddy, no B's, no Mom, no Connie... just the five of us at home after church.  It was just plain weird not having the whole family.  I served Mexican Haystacks and a fresh fruit buffet, which were both Doug's requests.  He got his nap, which was another request, and we watched True Grit later in the evening.  Quiet.  Simple.  Calm.  Doug said it was the best Fathers Day!  That's all that mattered.

Datenight:  Saturday, we spent the day doing things around the house.  Liza dropped by in the later afternoon for a visit and then offered to make dinner and do the bedtime routine for Doug and I to get out to the Summerfest Art Faire.  It was last minute, but we jumped on the opportunity and had a fun and spontaneous date.  Summerfest and dinner, time to talk and visit without kids, great night.  We ran into many old friends, which is our favorite thing about Summerfest! It was a great date.  We were really excited to see Brooke's photograph of ZJ at the Faire.  She won Honorable Mention!  Cool Beans!  I'll hopefully have the images to share tomorrow.

Camp report:  Quayd got home Saturday morning just before noon.  He was dirty.  D.I.R.T.Y.  And proud of it.  He told me that he had changed his underwear but was quite proud of the fact that he'd not showered all week long.  EEEWWWWW.  BOYS!   (I was not as bugged by it, knowing that he'd swam at least a few times.  Still EEEWWWW.) The girls were so excited to have their brother at home!

During Sunday dinner, Quayd gave us a detailed sanguine report about camp.   His worst moment was his tent buddy barfing in the tent.  He said the tent smelled really bad from Wednesday night on.  Triple EEWWW.   The best moments were the two that I wrote about last week... their troop winning third place in the camp relay and him passing off the Swimmer Test.  He said that he ate well because of my treats but he didn't like much of the camp food other than sausage.  (Ironic since several of the boys got sick and Doug thought that it was from the sausage.)

We asked Quayd to tell his own version of the story of passing this Swim Test.   I had thought that they walked the dock before jumping in.  I misunderstood.  They walked in the water from the shore until the got to the dock.  Then, climbed up onto the dock and jumped in for the test.  He said that as he and J were about waist deep in the water, they were deciding whether or not they could do it because it was just painfully cold.  J said "What should we do?"  Quayd said, "We could pray."   Quayd then explained that "it was a public prayer but we needed to do it."  (We have told him that he can always pray when he's in any situation, but that he should try to not draw attention to it or to just say a prayer in his heart.)  He said, "Mom, we just folded our arms there in the water and I don't think that people noticed. 

I asked him what he prayed for and he told us that he said, "Heavenly Father, we're thankful we are Camp Hunt and that we can have Scout Camp. Please bless that this water wont be so cold and that we won't give up. Please bless us to be able to succeed at this test and do our best."    Here's where my tears started to fall.  He said that they said Amen and he had a warm feeling, he felt better and wasn't as nervous as he had been. He said, "J, do you feel that?  I feel warm."  J said "Yeh, me too."  Quayd said, "I think we can do it."  I was so touched by this story.  I'd been praying desparately while on the phone with Doug at the time he was walking out to the docks, but it never even occurred to me that he'd think to pray too.  Definitely one of my alltime favorite mommy moments!  I love this boy!

His stories of camp were so fun to hear.  He told about earning the first aid merit badge, so I asked him to tell me what he'd do if I was choking.  He did.  What about if I broke my arm?  He did.  Then, I said, "What if I cut my hand open?  What's the first thing you'd do?"  Doug interrupted Quayd's skillful response with an unexpected, "The first thing you'd do is say, "Ralph!!  YOU IDIOT!!!!"  This is so not Doug!  He doesn't make rude comments, even in jest, so we all just busted out into bellylaughs!   It was hysterical!

So, our dinner report went from tears of laughter to tears of joy, back and forth.  Quayd definitely had a great experience.  He earned seven merit badges, which was awesome!  I'm quite the proud mama this morning!

I called my dad in the afternoon and the girls sang for him.  He seemed to like that.  That was the first Father's Day in almost 40 years that I've actually had contact with my dad.  I liked it.  He did too.  ;)

Another favorite moment...Zaylee spent the afternoon with us.  After her nap, she was playing with ZJ's Barbie dolls and started "teaching" Barbie how to go potty.  Zaylee undressed Barbie, put her on the potty, flushed then stood her up at Barbie's sink to wash her hands, "Scrub, scrub, scrub, bubbles!"  It was too cute.  And she's almost trained herself!

It was a great weekend.  Family is what it's all about.

Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you.

happy father's day

 

killing time

PREVIOUSLY POSTED IN JULY 2007.  Adding the italics to update the answers that may have changed.  Change is good.

1. Your entire family has gone away for the weekend.  The house is all yours.  What are the first three things you do?  1.  Get the house perfectly clean, so that I can enjoy the rest of the time.  2.  Make myself a tall glass of ice water.  3.  Pull out some project that I've been "going to get around to".
2. Your bankbook is looking healthy, you have a four-day weekend ahead.  What sounds good?  I'd reserve a room at the Anniversary Inn for Doug and I, head straight to SLC, take in a few movies, see some sights, ride the horse-drawn carriage around Temple Square a few times, have breakfast in bed, reeeeeelax and talk!
3. What do you do while waiting in the doctors office?  People watch, read a magazine or the book you brought along, worry and stress about the examination that's about to take place?  I watch a movie on my DVD player or iPod or read my own book everytime.  Waiting doesn't bother me because I come prepared to be entertained. I don't like magazines in doctor's offices because sick people touch them.  I'm a germaphobe, remember.  HA!  Now I bring my Kindle, my laptop and my iPhone just about everywhere that I think I'll have to wait.  What did we do before electronics?
4. Would you rather spend an afternoon alone in a book store, a mall, napping in the hammock?  Of the three, probably in the bookstore.  But, if it could be just an afternoon alone anywhere, it would be at home, enjoying the solo time. Now, it would be in the hammock with the Kindle because it's my new bookstore!  HAPPINESS!
5. You have an unexpected 48 hour stay in the hospital.  You're coherent and not in pain.  How do you spend the time?  Reading?  Channel Surfing?  Laptop surfing?  Calling your friends to come visit?  Ringing for a nurse every five minutes?  Sleeping?  No question, I'd be calling my friends to come and visit, play cards, gab, whatever.  I would hate being there alone and bored.  If everyone was busy, see the above answers though! 
6. You have a nine hour trans-continental flight.  Get excited about finishing a hot novel? Watch the in-flight movies?  Become best friends with the stranger seated next to you?  Take three valium and sleep the time away?  As chatty as I am, I don't enjoy conversations on airplanes with strangers.  (Too many experiences with people who were wasting my time... like the time I flew next to the man who claimed to be President of Continental Airlines but riding coach to "see how smoothly his airline was running" and by the way, he owned half of Galveston TX and was their mayor but couldn't keep his stories straight from one to the next.)  I'd watch a movie, read some and take a nap.  That doesn't change.  I crank up the iPod, watch a movie until I fall asleep.  I hate flying!
7. You have a seven hour layover in Chicago O'Hare Airport.  Do you wear down your cellphone battery calling friends?  Read a book?  People watch?  Shop every store in the airport?  Take a taxi and see the city?  Oh, I'd be in a taxi so fast!  I'd check out whatever I could fit in during the few hours that I had to safely leave the airport!  I spent twelve hours once in an airport when I was traveling to teach scrapbooking and have kicked myself ever since for not seeing that big city while I had the chance! When stuck at the airport though, I am online on the laptop and peoplewatching.  Man, the laptop has changed my life!
8. What do you do when your bored stiff?  I usually clean, if I get really bored. I don't enjoy just sitting so I usually drum up something to do with the babes, Carol or Denise.  I hate sitting around doing nothing! Add Wendy to the list!
9. Work first, play later?  OR Play while you can, the work will still be there when you get home?  Unfortunately, I like to have the work done so that I can enjoy the playtime.  I do think I'm better at it this time around with the babes.  I set the timer and say, "We're gonna give it 30 minutes then we can go and play."  When I was younger, I'd have wanted everything perfect first and sometimes there wasn't enough time to play.  One of my "lessons learned".
10. List three times that you are easily bored.  1. Watching the Stock Market, bowling, baseball or golf on TV.  2. Hearing explanations about things that are scientific, money-related or technical.  My brain just shuts down and takes me to la-la land.  3.  Sales pitches where someone's trying to sell me something that I don't want to buy.  Some things never change.


If nothing ever changed, there'd be no butterflies. 

friday stuff

I woke up at 4:30 this morning and just could not shut down my brain to go back to sleep.  A few things on my mind this morning.... 

• Dad's health ~ he's not doing well this past few days.  I am anxious to see him in September.  He did just call as I typed the blog to let me know that they doctors were overmedicating him and it was causing the symptoms.  Some relief!
• Liza and Buddy ~ they are going to make a trip to AZ next weekend to check things out.  I've had several offers from friends and blogreaders to help them out.  AMAZING, how wonderful people can be.
• Kelly's surgery ~ when we spoke yesterday, she sounds like things are improving.  She has no regrets that she's done it because she loves the outcome of it all.  I don't get it but I'm glad that she is happy.
• Doug ~ he starts his new shift in a few weeks.  Getting to bed early is just not an easy feat in this home.
• Quayd ~ I know he's having the time of his life, and I'm glad for that.  However, I miss his silliness and his happy disposition. I'll be happy when he gets home tomorrow.  The girls woke up at different times this morning and as they said good morning, their first words were "Is Quayd coming home tomorrow?"  Both of them.  He's missed by us all.  Even Go-Go keeps going to his bedroom door, sniffing and then walking away after checking to see that he's not in there.
• Go-Go ~ I heart our little doggie.  He's everyone's love in this family.  I like being a dog person.  PS... He thinks that loofahs are the coolest dog toy ever!
• Houses ~ I know this is silly but I keep thinking about that old house that I fell in love with last fall.  It no longer has a for sale sign on it, and the house was a total nightmare, but that yard.   I loved it.  It would have been fun to fix that home up but it would have taken twenty years to do it.  Nightmare avoided, but still...
• Computer ~ My laptop keeps popping up with Low Disk Space.  Impossible.  I need to run it into Best Buy for a little check-up.  Ugh.
• Weekend ~ We've camped and tended kids and not had a date in three weeks.  We're due!  Tonight! 
• I am abundantly blessed.  Life is good. 

Patience is also a form of action.

8 thursday ramblings

1. I've had technical difficulties this morning and lost the internet for a bit.  Called repair and am back in working order.  ugh.
2. Doug was home just in time to get ready and attend his friend's viewing.  The girls wanted to sleep at Nana's again, so Doug and I had the rest of the night to ourselves.  Doug shared a ton of details without my asking, which is unusual.  (He's a "It was fun." kinda guy and I'm a "And then, we parked the van under the biggest tree on the left side, the side by the cute little bushes that had little squirrels who were eating these tiny little nut thingees...kinda gal.)  Shocking, I know.  
3. Doug  told me about a game that the boys had played after the camp hosts had done a skit where they had a "pre-chewed" food contest.  SICK and WRONG!  He also told about a relay race that involved all of the boys in the whole camp.  Our boys placed third in the relay, which included quoting the scout motto, tying knots, swimming and bringing in a canoe, building a fire and other activities that used their skills, knowlege and personalities.  Doug was most impressed by how the boys had worked together so well.  It sounds like a fabulous experience for the boys, especially now that the weather has improved.  
4. Quayd's camera is having issues and I am sad that he won't bring home pictures like he did last year.  I have to say, though, I am missing my boy!  Now that his dad is home, it's making me miss Quayd even more.
5. The girls are lost without Quayd, who's always creating some sort of entertainment for them.  Yesterday, they were pouting and feeling blue...partly because they miss Quayd and partly because I said that the pool is still too cold to get into.  I started teasing, "Don't smile!  NO SMILES ALLOWED!" which got them giggling and then I said, "Let's go get a treat!"  A&W Swirl Ice Cream cones were the choice.  It doesn't take much to make them happy!
6. My dad is not doing well.  He had to go to the hospital for rehydration and the doctor now thinks that he may have more lung issues.  I don't like this news at all.  I worry so much about Dad.
7. Liza told me that their move is set in wet cement.  They are going to go down to Peoenix next weekend to check things out before they start packing their bags. I'm not sure what to pray for!  Selfish mom in me says "HATE IT!"  Encouraging mom in me says, "It will all be great!"  We'll see.
8. Seriously, if you aren't into So You Think You Can Dance, you should try watching it.  It's an amazing show filled with talent and passion.  Best thing on TV all summer.  Loving it!

Have a wonderful day!

Be beautiful inside and out!

girls just wanna have fun

I'm thinking I'll need a nap today!  Denise and I had too much fun last night at our grown-up girl sleepover. We had a ball.  We went to Texas Roadhouse for dinner, then took a drive around town just for fun, dropping by the B's to see Miki for a sec and picking up a new Chi for my hair.  (HELP ME!  I need hairstyling lessons with this new do!)  We came home and played cards till 3AM, with the tv on in the background, gabbing and laughing till we cried.

The highlight of the night, as far as laughter goes, was when we went to bed at about 3:45.  We were lying there talking about how we wind down to go to sleep with our husbands snoring next to us.  (Both Doug and Clint love their sleep!  We're both insomniacs.)  I grabbed my iPhone and showed Denise Words with Friends, which I sometimes play for a bit before going to sleep.  Somehow, I started showing her the Talking Tom ap,which I have on the phone for Zaylee to play with.  It's a little odd looking comic type cat that repeats every word you say.  She'd never seen anything like it.  I held it close to her and she said, "What does it do?"  It repeated her in it's "Alvin the Chipmunk" type voice.  Denise was shocked when he repeated her and started to laugh.  Then, it repeated her laugh.  Then we were both cackling and it cackled.  For fifteen minutes, we were laughing at this dumb cat laughing back at us constantly.  Seriously, we were hurting from laughing.  (I was afraid I'd have to change the sheets!) We finally went to sleep just before 5AM.

When we woke up this morning, I said, "We need to listen to Talking Tom and see if he's near as funny after 2 and a half hours sleep.  (Our not so considerate neighbor woke us up at 7:15, honking her horn and yelling at her son to bring something out to her car.  THREE times.  At 7:15.  I wasn't amused.)   BTW, Talking Tom isn't as funny in broad daylight!

We got up and grabbed McD's breakfast and came home to play some more cards this morning until Denise had to go home.   It was a great little escape.  The girls are home from Mom's now, Doug will be home later tonight when another dad shows up to take his place at camp.  He'll come straight in and get ready to attend the viewing of his co-worker who passed away last week.  I'm so excited to see him!  I miss my men!

I talked with Doug last night and he said that the boys were warm, well-fed and having a blast.  Quayd talked to me for a sec and told me that one of the boys almost stabbed himself with his knife, but "he's okay".  I posted an update on Facebook for the moms, mentioning that but not saying which boy for a chuckle.  The mom of the boy posted almost immediately, "Thanks for leaving that blank. I'd rather hear about all the near misses once he is home and well:)  She's makes me laugh!  It's interesting, the bond between camp moms!  Love that!

I just got home from our wonderful and awesome dentist, Brett Skinner.  He seated the crown permanently today and now we'll just pray that things are good and we don't have to drill into the new crown for a root canal later.  It was a gamble that I was willing to take.  I love having a dentist that we can trust to know that he wants what's best for us and not what fills his pockets more.  Besides being gentle and kind, he's fun to visit with.  I consider him a friend after spending so much with him this summer and spring.

Last but not least, the girls loved every second of the photo shoot with favorite niece, Brooke, last night at favorite Aunt Barbie's house with favorite horses!  I took a shot of them with Go-Go before they left with Brooke and thought they looked pretty cute!  Life is good!  Enough said!

As we grow in wisdom, we pardon more freely.

 

 

the good, the bad, the ugly... but which was which?

Wow.  Yesterday was a rollercoaster emotional day!  It did not turn out as I'd planned or expected at all.  I apologize for this entry up front because I know that it will be long and personal.

First, "We've got cows."  (One of our favorite lines from the movie, Twister.)  The lot across the street was sold.  Right now, it's being leased and has a new gate and several cows until the developer gets whatever he needs in order to develop.  So, for now, cows will entertain us.  I love this one.

We got the guys off, did our chores and began our "girlie" adventures.   Mom treated the girls and I to lunch and then we did a little shopping.  We stopped by to see Miki since she's been at her aunt's in SLC  for a week while the B's were in Miami.  She was napping.  :(  I'll see her tomorrow.  The girls wanted to play for a bit at the B's so I came home and spent some time enjoying the solitude.

When the girls got home, we played games and had a quick bite for dinner in the middle of quite the thunderstorm. All of that sounds normal. It wasn't what was happening at home that was so emotional.  It was what is happening to everyone that we love and cherish.

Denise:  We had big plans for a sleepover last night. Dinner, movies, cards, DVD, junkfood.   In the morning,  we were filled with plans.  That would be until her daughter, Ashlee, 7 months pregnant, was ambulanced to the hospital.  Plans cancelled.  Ashlee was determined okay and sent home later in the afternoon.  Sleepover back on.   Denise was feeling dizzy in the afternoon, showing the signs that she's shown previously shown just before having her strokes.  Sleepover off.  Later, while talking, I asked her about her medications and she realized that she had forgotten to take them with all of the stress of Ashlee's situation in the morning.  She was doing better.  Tonight... plans on!  The girls will stay at Mom's.  Denise and I will talk, play cards and laugh until we can't hold our eyes open.  up, down, up, down, up!!!

Quayd and Doug:  Doug and I talked just before lunch.  They are camping at an official Boy Scout Camp, an aquatic camp, Camp Hunt at Bear Lake. Doug was talking to me from the shore of Bear Lake, watching the boys attempt to pass their swim check, which is required before they can even register for any merit badge classes. He sounded concerned, which is very unusual for Doug.  The cowboy in him has a very relaxed disposition about things that are easily alarming to me.  When I could hear the concern in his voice, I knew this could not be good.  It was 59 degrees.  It was pouring the rain.  He said that the rain was beating down on the boys bare backs with the wind just howling and pounding them as well.  For Doug, who usually says, "Ahhh, they're fine" to be concerned... yikes!    I looked it up at  the BSA site to see what exactly a swim check means: 

Swimmer:  Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off, and begin swimming. Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes: sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl (no dog-paddle); then swim 25 yards using an easy, resting backstroke. The 100 yards must be completed in one swim without stops and include at least one sharp turn. After completing the swim, rest by floating.

I was on the other end of the phone listening, as Doug described the boys walking out to the end of the dock for their swim check test, with "skin that was a purplish pink he'd never seen", before they even got into the water.  I was holding my breath, just listening.  He said that a few of the boys jumped in and immediately right back out.  The water at Bear Lake is cold all summer long.  I also looked that up.  The water temp 54 degrees yesterday.  So, Doug's concern was hypothermia.  (My concern is why don't men think!?...because this mom would have just said, "Let's play cards instead today!") Doug assured me that the boys were safe because there was a boat on either side of  each boy as they swam this length, in case there was a need to pull them out if they began to struggle .  I joked later, "Great!  Now, istead of worrying about drowning, I can worry about pneumonia!" 

Long story short...Quayd made it!  He was a different blue and purple, Doug said, when he got out of the water, but he did it!  Three of the twelve boys in that group made it and Quayd was one of them!  (Should I be thrilled or ticked!?)  Doug called later when Quayd was near the phone and let him share his victory with me.  I asked him if it hurt.  In Quayd's words, which made me cry, he said, "Mom, that was thehardest thing I've ever done!  I was crying hard while I swam but I kept saying, "I'm a Corbridge and Corbridges don't quit!  So, I made it!"  Woohooo!  Way to go, Quayd! 

(The second photo doesn't show the pouring rain, but that's rain pouring out of the gutter off our home near the peach tree.)  

Kelly:  Yesterday, Kelly had her, hopefully, final surgery.  As I've mentioned, Kelly had "enhancement" surgery three months ago.  She's had to have three surgeries and two "procedures" since the initial surgery because of "complications".  There was the issue with the blood clots and twice, now, the doctor has had to "reposition" things.  Apparently, he accepted responsibility for the issues and has done the follow-up on his dime.  But, this one... I'm not amused.  He actually cut in his office, in the presence of an anesthesiologist but without putting her out so that they didn't have to have an OR at the hospital.  It sounds inhumane to me! 

I worried about Kelly all day, getting no answer when I called.  Kevin never did call.  She and Kevin stayed with friends in SLC last night after the surgery.  Kelly called late last night, sobbing.  SOBBING.  She said that she was in so much pain, that three Lortab hadn't helped at all and that she was drinking a lot to dull the pain.  I was beside myself with worry all night long.  NOT AMUSED.  I realize that this is her action, but please pass why her husband wasn't stopping her.  Do they not remember that his mother just died three months ago from that exact thing?  Enough said about that.  No, one more thing.  Doug would say, "Some people's kids!"  There.  Enough said.

Liza and Buddy:  Okay.  I can't even express what I'm feeling here. I've sooo hoped that I'd not be posting this.  Yet, for them, I wanted what was best.  I've not said a word about it because I've been waiting to see if things would actually fall into place or not.  Liza gave her permission to blog about it last night and she said, "Then it will really be official." 

Several weeks ago, Liza and Buddy sort of dropped a few hints, then a week or two later, they dropped a bombshell. Last night, Liza came by to share the news that Buddy has officially been accepted and gotten scholarships for another school in Phoenix.  I've literally not known what to pray for in this situation.  The thought of Liza not living closeby is not something that I allow myself to entertain.  Only once in these several weeks have I even gone there in my mind and when I did, I cried. 

Yesterday, Liza dropped by just long enough to tell me the news.  She hugged me and said she loved me.  I teared up.   She left.  I bawled.  They will be living in Arizona for the next few years while Buddy finishes up his education.  Then, we'll see where they land after that.  My emotions on this one can not even be expressed in words. I know that this is part of life and I'm thrilled for them.  Liza's always wanted to live in a big city, Buddy's excited about his future, they are both happy about this.  So, I'm happy for them.  On the other hand, Iadore this daughter of mine and can't even stand the thought of not having her near.  Zaylee adores Uncle Buddy and Aunt Liza.  This is going to cause a huge void in her life.  My kids will miss them soooooooo much.  Doug has not even heard the official news yet, but he's said very little since the first mention of it because it's just plain sad for us.

Liza said "But, look at it this way...you can come visit us in Phoenix!"  I no likee hot places!  But, if that's where Liza is, that's where I'll visit.  And I am excited for Buddy.  Deeeeeeep sigh.  Literally.  Tears fill my eyes as I type.  Time for this mama to grow up too, I guess.  And then, I do have to remind myself of the day that, at age 18, I said to my own mother, "I'm moving to Utah on Christmas Day."  From Florida.  And we're all still alive.  I know, it's part of life.  But, it's going to be one of those parts that hurts.  Enough said about that too!  Now that I've posted how I really feel, from here on out, I'm going to focus on the positive about this new adventure my daughter and son-in-law are about to embark on.  (And even though I'm not amused, he's still the best son-in-law ever!) 

The girls: Just because I've written about everyone else, I'll mention the girls too.  HAPPINESS!  Gracie and ZJ have learned to play some adult card games, Trim and Hand & Foot.  I told Grace last night that she will now have to become my official card playing partner.  She's all over that one!  When it was bedtime, she asked, "Just one more game?"  This is a good sign.  I've written before about how many times when the bigs were teens, game playing was a "safe territory" for even Kelly on her worst days.  I love that.

And ZJ, this morning, had me cackling out loud, when she was playing with Go-Go and reenacting a commercial for some bank.  "I love my bank!  I love my bank!" and making Go-Go bark as though he were repeating it.  Some people's kids!

I'm off for a busy day.  Denise, Grace, ZJ and I have a lunch date.  My favorite niece, Brooke, called and asked the girls to be her models for a photo shoot this afternoon!  Whooohooo! That always makes me happy!  We'll spend the afternoon primping.  A sleepover tonight with Nisey!  Seeing Miki and Wendy today!  It's sunshiney and much warmer today, so my men won't be frostbitten!  Liza says that she wants to spend extra time with us between now and their leaving next month!  Life is good!  Even when you're in the middle of a triple loop, double-corkscrew rollercoaster ride!

Life is a challenge, meet it! Life is a dream, realize it!
Life is a game, play it! Life is Love, enjoy it!

 

camp!

My most favorite moment of the entire weekend was when Quayd and I knelt down to say prayers last night before his bedtime.  It was after 11 because we'd been making sure that he was ready for Scout Camp.  He went through his whole prayer and at the end, said, "I'm thankful that I have wonderful parents".  It brought tears to my eyes!  Because, quite humbly, I must admit, he does!  ;)  Doug has taken three days off work to go with him to Scout Camp. Quayd will be gone six days and he's so glad that have his dad there to help the boys get situated. 

This camp has come with more confusion and lack of organization due to lack of communication than any camp I ever remember  Lots of upset moms over the past few days, as a result.  (I'm not complaining here because I love the leaders, but  there were some definite issues that I'm certain will be different next time.)

I'm just so grateful for a husband who's willing to just roll with things and pick up the slack whenever needed!  (He gaurds his vacation/PTO like it's gold, yet willingly took the time off to be there for Quayd when he heard that they didn't have enough leaders to go to the camp.)  I'm ever so grateful for a boy who has just great desires.  Last night, we went through the classes offered at this camp and he set a goal to get 8 merit badges while at camp.  (I'm not sure that this is even possible, but he's shooting for the moon, so he'll at least reach higher than if he hadn't.)  He set his goals, wrote out his plan toward getting his Eagle Scout rank and then at the bottom of his reminder sticky note, he wrote "Get this done!"  I heart this boy!

And now, after the "men" are gone, the girls and I are going to have some fun of our own.  Last week, I tended the B's kids for five nights and six days while Stott and Wendy were in Miami.  I love their kids.  They were very well behaved.  But, having five kids here for five nights and six days meant that I never left the house, other than my lunch with Denise on Tuesday morning, all week long.  On Saturday, Connie came to the rescue.  Doug was home, so we went out for an hour. (I had no idea that cabin fever could set in so quickly!)  So, I'm ready to get out myself!  One of the nights that the boys are gone, the girls and I will have our own sleepover.  On the other night, they will have one with Nana and I'm having checking out for some me time!  More to report on that soon.  Regardless, I'm excited for the next few days.  As much as I miss them, I love the change of having it be just the girls and I or just me alone!

The "men" left and met at the church to load the trailer and head over to Bear Lake Camp Hunt at 7:45 this morning.  It was pouring the rain and has rained off and on all morning long.  An high altitude aquatic camp in a near frozen lake in the rain.  Hm.  Sounds like a fun week to me.  NOT!  They will have a bawl regardless, I'm sure! I just hope hypothermia is not something we have to learn about this week!  ;) 

Time to get busy.  I love my tame, calm, quiet, humble, simple life.  Even when it's not tame or calm.  Life is good.

Patience is the best remedy for every trouble.

Yes, that would be more rain.

 
There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. 

Great ways to use French Bread

French Bread is one of the most versatile breads ever. I use it frequently and quite often, it becomes the main dish. Here's a few of our favorite ways to serve it:

• Slice it in half lengthwise. Cover both halves with a tuna fish spread. (2 cans tuna, mayo to taste, about 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish, salt and pepper) Then, top with sliced fresh tomatoes, more salt and pepper. Smother in shredded colby-jack cheese. Broil on low with the oven door open until the cheese is melted or bake for about fifteen minutes.
• Slice it in half lengthwise. Spread your favorite or leftover spaghetti sauce. Cover with your favorite pizza toppings. Smother in mozzarella cheese. Bake or broil.
• Slice it in half lengthwise. Cover with a fresh breshetta. Load it up with salt and pepper and fresh Romano cheese. Broil or bake.
• Slice it in half lengthwise. Cover with ground hamburger (cooked with peppers, onions and garlic) OR shredded chicken or pork. Cover with BBQ sauce. Cover with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake or broil till cheese is melted.
• Slice it in half lengthwise. Chop a mixture of your favorite veggies finely or in a food processor. (We use broccoli, carrots, green onions, tomatoes...) In another bowl, mix 1 cup ranch dressing and 8 ounces of cream cheese. (Or add ranch until spreadable consistency.) Spread the ranch and cream cheese mixture. Cover entire bread with veggies. Eat fresh!
• Use leftover french bread for french toast. Slice into 1" slices. VERY good!
• Mix up some fantastic spinach artichoke dip or sausage and cheese dip, let everyone just tear the bread and dip! Num! Serve with a good salad and you've got a great quick meal!

five on Friday

I can't believe it's Friday already!  Having a house full of company has kept me busy and I've had very little time to blog.  A few things on my mind today...

1. I think that I mentioned this a month ago, but seriously, shop Overstock.com. WOW!  SUCH great service on returns.  I am totally impressed!
2. No camping this weekend.   Doug may even have to work tomorrow.  We're just chilling and loving the sunshine today.
3. Qwest, our phone company/ISP has merged with another company.  As a result, I've had to change all of my mail programs.  So far, I've not retrieved or been able to retrieve my address book. If you and I communicate by email occasionally, please send me an email just so that I can put your addy back into my address book. Thanks!
4. Last night, after work, Doug and a work friend stopped by to visit a lady who has a brain tumor.  Her days in this life are limited to a few weeks, at most.  Doug came home and shared how hard the visit had been.  We had quite a conversation about life support, extending life with treatments and surgeries.   I remember the Oprah episode where the mother who had cancer made the videos for her young daughter.   I said that if I ever developed some terminal disease, I'd do something similar and I'd fight tooth and nail for my life.  Watching others experience this makes Doug question if he would want to go through so much, leaving the family with debt and suffering.  We see this differently.  I hope that we never have to face it together and make a choice.  So sad.  I'm so glad that both my mom and my dad chose to fight their cancer!  Doug called me a few minutes ago and told me that she passed last night. 
5. It's afternoon.  I've got Zaylee here for the day too.  It's crazy around here!  Enough said.

Those who are lifting the world upward and onward are those who encourage more than criticize.

 

thunderation

Today, some emotions...

secure: This morning, we awoke to the sound of hail poundingthe house.  It's hailed and blewn and rained and thundered all morning long.  Definitely a stay inside and keep warm morning. I  just hope that the garden plants survive the weather.

 

Freaked out:  As I was typing the blog, I felt something, a sting, on my neck.  I'd felt it twice in the moments before but found nothing.  I flinched and brushed the vindictive little bugger down my cleavage.  A nasty spider.  That's two spiders that have bitten me in the last month. I literally have a nickel size scar from a month ago still on my leg.   Time to call an exterminator!  Now I have creepy crawlies all over me!  EEEWWW!

frustrated:   Please pass some information about scout camp that takes place in FOUR days.  Anything?  Anyone?

Grateful: That my kids love to be read to!  They're loving our reading time each day and asking for more. Hmmmm.... what will we do while Quayd's away at camp?  I need a short and sweet girlie book for next week!

excited:  Dad called yesterday and started the call with "Is this the most beeeautiful girl in the world?"  He sounds more like himself every day!  I love it!  He did find another lump on his neck, however, which has made him nervous, but he thinks that it's probably just something from the radiation.

stunned:  The Casey Anthony trial just continues to blow me away. 

Thrilled: to see Denise again, yesterday. She made my day when she said that she'd been asked what she missed the most while she was gone and she said me!  I missed her too!

entertained:  The girls have been making "Plate Gardens" for the past few days.  It's kept them totally entertained.   They use paper plates, make some mud and then decorate little miniature gardens on the plates.  They've been taking them to their favorite neighbors as gifts, which I don't mind because that says that they love them.  It's great summer entertainment for kids!  This photo is there little wagon full of supplies.  Too cute. 

 

Anxious:  I saw the first trailer for Breaking Dawn!  I don't watch previews but where I've read the book, I did see that one.  I won't watch another until I've seen the movie in November.  More vampire fun coming our way soon!  Have I ever mentioned that I'm nota sci-fi or fantasy reader? I crack myself up.  (and take much teasing for it!)

Busy:  I've got a huge to do list today! 

Content:  I'm loving the slow life of summer!  We're adjusting well!

We can teach from our experience, but we can not teach experience.

 

a window, a meme and a moment

Denise got home from her New York trip last night.  She had a fabulous trip, texting me from Grand Central Station, Ellis Island, Rockefeller Center, you name it.  This morning, we're having lunch and catching up!  Can't wait!

I was reminded that I never posted a photo of the shutters on the gallery window.  Here ya go.  I've loved this room more than I've ever enjoyed my scrapbook/craft room. I am indeed using the room more for just relaxing, computing, reading and visiting than crafting.   BUT.  It's great for crafts too.  It works for me!  If only it would grow enough to have two lazyboys!  Loving it!

 

I had a little experience on Sunday that really touched my heart.  When we got home from camp and raced to church, Gracie had an upset tummy.  She stayed home and seriously barely got out of bed most of the day.  I always stay home with the kids if they are sick.  But, Gracie is 12 and old enough that she really doesn't need me here while she sleeps.  So, I took a deep mommy breath and left her at home alone. 

As Sacrament Meeting began, we were seated in "our pew", the seat directly behind the deacons (12-13 year old boys who pass the sacrament).  So, Quayd, being a deacon, is seated right in front of us.  Doug came in and sat down.  ZJ followed.  I felt the biggest void.  I kept counting heads and waiting.  Then I remembered that Gracie was not coming.  It was so strange to not have her there with us, totally incomplete.  It was a sad moment for me, although I knew that she was just a block and minutes away.   It was one of those moments that made me love and appreciate my family so much!  I can't imagine life without the babes!  

I found this little blog meme this week and have not done one in a while.  So, why not?:

1. Have you ever used Craigslist?  Yes, I have purchased and sold a few things on Craigslist, but I don't like the spam stuff that comes with using it.  Frustrating.  However, we are HUGE fans of KSL.com.  It's the best thing every and I highly recommend it if you live in the Utah area.

2. Can you sew?  I started sewing when I got my first sewing machine at age 10. I made my own wedding dress, all the baby clothes, used to even sew jeans that looked like HASH jeans back in the late 70s.  Then, I started scrapbooking bigtime and put the machine away.  I actually pulled it out a few weeks ago and it had to be taken in for repair and maintainence after sewing a few strips for a levi quilt.  Hmmm... that should be ready soon?  Wonder when he'll call?

3. Do you pour syrup on your pancakes or dip your pancakes in the syrup?  both!  Maybe I should make pancakes for breakfast today! 

4. Rain storms: Love them or hate them?  Oh my word, I love them!  That's the thing I miss most from Florida... the rain, far more than the ocean!  Love the sound of thunder.  Love lightning.  LOVE storms!

5. Do you like swimming?  Not really, but I love being in the pool especially when it's hot!

6. What kind of drink do you order at Sonic? Route 44 ice water, filled to the top with ice or a Cherry Coke or a Strawberry Pineapple LimeAde with lots of ice!  We love Happy Hour!

7. Are you funny?  When I'm in the right mood, I can be.   I don't think, in my old age, that I'm as serious as I used to be. ;)

8. At what age will your kids get cell phones?  Quayd is begging already. Doug and I have not yet agreed on when he should get one.  I'm thinking for Christmas this year, when he's 14. Doug says when he can buy and pay for his own services.  We'll see. I want to be able to keep in contact with him, as he's getting older and out more on his own.

9. What’s your favorite vegetable?  Probably corn on the cob. 

10. Were you a Girl Scout?  Yes, in Miami, and I loved it!  It was one of the few things that I did in my childhood that were not totally controlled by my mother, so it was a new form of independence, which  I loved.  It was my first experience of camping. I earned a ton of badges and still have the little sash with all of them in my memorobilia box. 

That's it for this beautiful sunshiney Tuesday!  I'm off to lunch with Denise! 

A friend is one before whom I may think aloud.

scentsational!

A few random thoughts on this cool, cloudy Tuesday morning.  The windows are closed again.  [sigh]

I'm so excited because last week, I rediscovered Scentinel candles!  I am now the proud owner of a black melting warmer, several candles, fragrance beads and cubes.  I love the candle warmer because I don't have to worry about smoke and soot on the ceilings.  I light candles and Doug walks behind me blowing them out if they are smokey.  So, this pacifies the man who has to paint our ceilings every few years. Carol has a warmer in her kindergarten classroom, which I think is a great idea.   A good smelling classroom, no danger of flames with the kiddos around. I'd never thought about that, but I love it!  I've got the warmer in our living room, which is the least occupied room in our home, so I don't have to worry about leaving the candle lit at bedtime or flames burning unsupervised.  My house has been smelling so nummy... and even though it's summer, I'm burning cinnamon cubes and vanilla beads together in the front room.  I mean, it feels like winter still, so why not?!  My bathroom smells like plum, which I can't get enough of. I love the designs on the candle jars.   My favorite is the creme brule, with the Eiffel Tower on it.  ZJ won't leave it closed! Check out their website!  I was surprised at how reasonably they are priced. Needless to say, I'm loving the fresh scents throughout the house until our windows are open for good this summer!

After four days of an open exposed tooth, it's amazing how much I appreciate something as simple as breathing in or yawning when it doesn't hurt to do it! 

Last night for Family Home Evening, we held our summer family counsel.  We sat down together and discussed everyone's hopes, goals, the calendar, activities, rules, daily schedules and basic manners and courtesies for the summer.  Included in the schedule were six camping trips, one wedding, two family reunions, one family gathering, two neighborhood swim parties, one garden, three books to be read and lots of swimming!  It will be a fun and busy summer!

With Doug's change of work schedule, there will be many changes in our lifestyle.  Doug will have to go to bed earlier, which will mean that our fun will be planned on weekends, including Thursday nights.  Because of the fact that Doug will be in bed at 8:30, I voted to keep the TV for the summer since I'm not about to go to bed that early, nor would there be a reason for me to get up at 4AM.  So.  I will be watching So You Think You Can Dance this summer, which will be my guilty pleasure.  Other than that news updates and some decorating shows, there's not much to watch.

Yesterday, the rooms were cleaned, drawers emptied, clothes bagged for giveaway and lots of laundry was done.  We didn't get the lawn mowed or the pool up because the beautiful sunshiney day turned dark and rainy by the afternoon.  By dinnertime, the windows were closed and by bedtime, it was debatable, as to whether to turn on the heat for an hour or not. Someone joked the other day that Utah has only three seasons, winter, summer and winter. Lately, that's true.

We've got houseguests for the week.  It will be a fun week, filled with lots of kid activities.  We started reading this morning and I read two chapters because the kids weren't ready for me to stop.  That has to be my favorite summertime activity!  Life is good!

TV.  If kids are entertained by two letters, imagine the fun they'll have with twenty-six.  Open your child's imagination.  Open a book. 

first campout of summer

We spent the weekend in Idaho camping with the B's.  The kids were so excited about going that before ten on Friday morning, their rooms were company clean, the trailer was ready to hitch, the kids were packed and ready to go.  By 1:00, they were sitting in the Expedition waiting for Doug, who wasn't expected home until 4:30.   I'd call that excitement!

We went to Downetta Hot Springs for the weekend, camping in their camp park instead of up a canyon as planned.  We decided that it was definitely the way to go, to be right there at the water park for the kids to be able to come and go as they pleased, swimming or playing at the camp.  They loved every second of it!  The fact that the water is 98 degrees, even Miki loved it.  She played in the pop-up water forever and still giggled at it all.

 
 

The bigger kids spent most of the day climbing the stairs to get to the top of the three water tubes.  I loved the tube but the hot water inside it made it stifling.  Doesn't Quayd look grown up in this shot!? 

 

My favorite shot of the day was Doug, who after several runs down the waterslides, was sunburned.  Here's Doug's idea of suntanning.

 

Stott scoped out the campsites and requested specific ones, which allowed us to have the whole corner of the campground far away from others and to ourselves.  Liza and Buddy joined us bringing Zaylee with them, so that made for even more fun.   Wendy and Stott made Dutch Oven chicken and potatoes that were nummy!  Buddy brought his CampChef, which made breakfast a breeze.  We ate well and slept well, in our heated trailer,  and had the pools... almost like a Marriot.  (wink-wink!) 

I'm always amused by our dynamics, where body temps are concerned.  Buddy, Stott and I are always hot.  Liza, Doug and Wendy are always freezing.  We are a motley crew around the campfire!

 
 

Buddy hates my flash!  Liza had on a hoodie and a blanket and Oops to keep her warm in front of the fire.

 

There was a horse pasture near our campsite and the horses kept me entertained... the photo is looking out the window of our tent trailer.  They were cute until they started pulling out wet towels off the fence and into the pasture! Too funny!  Great weekend!  It was really a great time!

 

The only negative of the weekend was that after dinner, my temporary crown popped off.  So.  I spent the weekend with a bare rooted open tooth.  Ouch.  I talked with Brett, my dentist,  late that night.  He was leaving with his family for a week in Nauvoo, Illinois.  So, this morning, I've been to my dentist's brother-in-law, also a dentist, to have it put back on until Brett gets back to permanently put it on.  Loverly.  But, it's all good.  When the numbness wears off, I'm back in business!  The problem saved me a gazillion calories since I didn't each much all weekend!  ;)  There's the good in that adversity!

We got home from camping just in time to clean up and make it to church, then napped a lot yesterday afternoon.  Zaylee spent some time with us later in the day and last night, we just chilled.  To me... all this says SUMMER!!!  woooohooooooo!  Love it! 

This week is the week that we'll be trying to form some good habits for summer, working out who's does what when and how to keep on top of things.  We start reading our read alouds, making some sort of routine and basically trying to make for a smooth summer.  Right now, it's 12:20 in the afternoon and I'm just getting to the blog.  I may become a summertime afternoon blogger.  Who knows!  All I know is that we're all verrrrrry happy to be home together for a fun summer!  We're planning on making as many memories as possible!  Enough said!

Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths. 

 

summer has arrived!

 
 No man, on his deathbed, has ever looked into the eyes of his family and his friends and said, "I wish I'd spent more time at the office."


Walkin on Sunshine!

Previously posted in May 2008

Too funny!  Quayd walked in the door from school, put his backpack away and slumped down at the kitchen table. His first words, "I'm bored."  WHAT!?!  He'd been home less than three minutes!!!  That's not happening! Over the years, I've watched lots of other families and picked a few of their best tips to apply to our family.  Here's a few things that we've picked up over the years to make our summer run smoother!  

• Each child has their own water bottle/mug.  They are filled each morning and kept in the door of the fridge.  They drink from these all day long, except during meals.  It's a great way to know that they are staying hydrated, keeps the sink free of a thousand glasses, and I don't have to be pouring drinks all day long!  By the way, the rule in our house is water only in the mugs and they stay in the fridge.  They are not travel mugs or outside mugs.  This way, they are always where they are supposed to be!
• Purchase some inexpensive plastic dishes for them... each has their own color plate, bowl and glass.  These are the dishes that they use for breakfast, lunch and all snacks.  Not dinnertime.  They are responsible for washing their own dishes.  This teaches them responsibility because if they aren't clean, they have to wash the crusty dish before they use it again.  Much easier!  This way, I know who's dishes are left out on the deck in the mornings, after breakfast.  I can also tell who left the milk out if Quayd's blue glass is sitting by it!  Worth the $12 alone! 
• The oldest summer rule in our home is that there is no fun until beds are made and babes are dressed.  No one goes to bed unless clothes are put away, swimsuits and towels hung to dry overnight. 
• We also read every morning before they play with friends or each other.  I read aloud, a classic, every morning.  Gracie chose the first book for this summer yesterday, "Island of the Blue Dophins".  I figure that they can real all the Judy Bloom, Amelia Bedelia and other series books on their own.  That's what they would choose everytime.  So many great books are overlooked today because of books like "the Magic Treehouse" and "Captain Underpants".  Newbury Winners are always great choices for read alouds!  The babes actually look forward to reading time!  We also buy them books all summer... as soon as they complete a book, they get to choose a new one.  Borders loves us!
• Another great idea for summer is to purchase a beach towel for each child.  That's the only one that they get to use for outside water play.  It saves me from having to wash towels fifteen times a week.  They are far more likely to take care of it if they know that it's the only one they get...especially after they had to use it wet or grassy once or twice!  (I know, I'm so mean!)
• Type up lists and place them where they can be seen with instructions and your expectations of chores.  Don't just say, "Your room has to be clean before you can play."  Say, Clean your room:  Make the bed.  Put away all clothes.  Desktop clean.  Dirty clothes in the hamper.  Nothing under the bed, in the floor of the closet or on the chair. "  Be specific.  Do this for dishes, bathrooms, picking up the yard...  If they have your expectations clearly stated, they can't say "I didn't know."  The chores are done before they get to play... helping keep some semblance of order all summer long!
• ROTATE the chores!  I make a chart with chores that need to be done and everyone has a few each day that are above and beyond the regular "Make your bed, clean your room" chores.  Such as, laundry sorting, van de-junking, getting the mail....  The chart hangs all summer in the kitchen and they can look and see that on Wednesday, they have to do these three things plus the regulars before they play.  It's so nice to say, "Did you do your jobs?" before you tell them yes to anything else.  They want  to get it done so that they can relax and enjoy the rest of the day.
• Uh-oh jar... I've typed up a list of little odds and ends that need to be done.  Most are simple three minute type chores... collect the dirty laundry and sort it into the laundry room, take out three wastebaskets, empty the dishwasher, clear the van of anything that shouldn't be there....  Then, if we have arguing, whining, complaining, they get to draw a paper and do the task.  It's easier than yelling at them.  Just a simple, "Pick a task." and they stop quickly because if they don't, they get to pick two!
• Rewards, rewards, rewards!  Use rewards and goals... if we get all this done, if we don't argue for the whole day, if everyone helps in the yard.... we get to go to the matinee, get Root Beer ice cream cones at A&W, make s'mores on the fire tonight...   It works better than telling them what they didn't do!  BUT STICK TO YOUR GUNS!!  I also filled a large gumball machine with candies for the summer.  This is a quick, "Way to go!" reward system that we're trying this summer.  If someone goes the extra mile and does something above and beyond, they get to grab a quarter from my money jar and buy a treat from the machine.  Fun stuff for them!
• HAVE FUN!!!  RELAX!!! DON'T STRESS OVER THE SMALL STUFF!!!  (This is the hardest one for me! But, I'm working on it!)

Let the fun begin!!!

The art of progress is to preserve order amid change and to preserve change amid order.

nine

 We've got a ton to do today.  So, a few short random thoughts running around in my head lately:

1. First day of summer.  We slept in.  In the tent trailer.  Again. Buddy suggested that we sell the house and just live in it.  The kids thought that was a great idea!  I'm thinking that I'll pass! But, they are loving it.  Doug and I have told them that now that it's summer, we'll start taking it camping up the canyon, then it won't be opened at home.   Doug doesn't want them to get bored with it at home. I love that such small things are so exciting to kids. 
2. One of my favorite things about the beginning of summer is going through the kids closets and drawers.  It's the perfect time to get rid of everything that is tired, doesn't fit, not needed in the summer....   It's also a good thing to make a note of what the kids have that can be used next year for school clothes still and to know what you'll need to replace when school begins so that you can start school shopping early.
3. Tomorrow, my blast from the past will be a repeat of some summer organizing tips and hints.
4. It's warm and sunny!  Wahoooooo!
5. My brother had a new pacemaker put in yesterday.  We have never been very close but I do think of him and hope he has a quick recovery.
6. Sonic Happy Hour!  Yes!
7. Denise is having a ball in NYC!  She's calling and texting regularly.  I'm so happy for her fun! 
8. Casey Anthony...shocking.  Guilty.  Sad.
9. Bring on the heat!   Enough said!


True happiness is wanting what you have, not having what you want.

rush

I loved the quotes and thoughts shared regarding yesterday's blog entry!  I'll be sharing them, for sure! 

• It's the last day of school and a beautiful one at that!  The kids have less than half day today and will all be home for the summer!  We'll then, run into town to do a few errands, have our traditional lunch out to celebrate the summer and then let the parties begin!  They've got big plans already for all of the things that they want to do this summer.  I have a feeling that I'm going have to learn to love camping!   And I don't mean at the Marriot!  The weather is supposedto be H-O-T soon, so we may try to talk Doug into putting up the pool soon since it takes it a week to warm up enough to swim in.  Summer, at last!
• Quayd came home yesterday with an award for recognition of his effort in school this past year.  Gracie came home with a blue ribbon for being on the honor roll twice!  ZJ came home with prizes from the school's annual carnival, so it was a good day for everyone!  Well, except Doug.  He came home with an achey jaw from a root canal.  Ugh. 
• Kelly and Zaylee came to spend the afternoon with me.  We went over to the B's and played cards while Miki and Zaylee played on the swing together.  It's cute to watch them play together.  I do love being a grammie!
• Liza and Buddy dropped by later in the night.  We were discussing college educations and I joked that Doug was going to go back to school to become the world's oldest nurse.  (I've thought that he would be a fabulous nurse since we  were first married, back when there were not very many male nurses.)  We had the best time teasing about Doug being a nurse.  First we had to explain to the babes who Dr. Kavorkian is because Doug would have a hard time watching people suffer.  Then, we teased that his solution for every ache and pain would be "fiber!"  And a pitossin drip would never fly because it has sugar in it.  ZJ added that he would tell all of the patients to "cowboy up!"  You had to be there but it was quite funny!

I'm behind this morning on everything because I've been reading!  Short and sweet today, for sure.  But, life is good!  Quote today from blogging friend, Melanie!  I love it!

Our attitude towards life determines life's attitude toward us.

 

 

 

having it all

Today is the last full day of school.  Tomorrow, they have just two hours and we're done!  Such excitement around our home! 

This morning, for me, not so much excitement.  In about two hours, Denise is flying to New York City without me.  She'll visit her son, see all of the sights, shop, eat and play nonstop for five days. This was the trip that we've been planning together for almost two years.  A few months ago, shortly after Denise's parents passed away, her sister and niece decided that they wanted to go too.   Upon that announcement, I decided that it should be a family thing for them. When I told Denise that I wouldn't be going, she was disappointed about my decision and has let me know every single time that the trip has come up since then.  When we went to lunch yesterday, we both had tears because we weren't going together.  I'm disappointed too.  BUT.  I'm thrilled for her!  She will have so much fun visiting her son and seeing the city of my dreams! 

When Doug and I were talking about it last night, he decided that he wants to take me.  Part of my dream trip is to ride a helicopter over the city.  (That will cross off two things on my bucket list at once!) I think that's what sounds so inviting to him because NYC is the last place on earth that Doug will love.  (Put Doug on the ranch and the man is happy!)  However, he loves helicopters!  So, we decided that we will save our pennies for this trip together.  However, it will come after we've taken the babes on their dream trip ~ Disney World.  So.  I hope that I live long enough to do both!  ha!  Oh the sacrifices we make for our kids!  ;)

So, today, I'm celebrating for Denise. We talked this morning and I shared that I'd already prayed for her safety and fun and that I am genuinely happy for her.  It's strange.  I'm  really not jealous because I'm so excited for her.  In thinking about that, I decided that this is a sign of true and genuine love...being happy for her instead of sad for me.  Cool beans!

I have an acquaintance that is quite openly envious of others when they get or have something that they don't...to the point that it's not flattering at all.  This person will say out loud and publicly,  "Why do they have all the luck... get to do this or that...have this or that!?"  I feel bad for this person because they are never happy with what they have.  In my opinion, they have plenty, so they shouldn't be so petty and especially out loud. 

I have another friend who, when she loves something that belongs to someone else, she'll say, "I want just like that one and for you to have one that's even better!"  I love that attitude.  A little envy, but it's generous.  ;)

One of our little family jokes is that we discover something that we reeeeeaaallllly are excited about, we will say out loud, "Covet, covet, want, want."  What it means is that we love it!  I have a niece who says to her children, "You git what you git and you don't throw a fit!"  I have shared that with a few friends and now their kids recite it.  Too cute.

We allcan't have it all!  Even Oprah can't have it all!  Her beautiful California home was toured on the Nate Berkus show yesterday.  She took Nate out to a little (to her) rock "teahouse" that was absolutely breathtaking.  Surrounded by beautiful gardens and atriums, she uses this house as her zen place, to meditate, read, have happy encounters with others.  Only positive feelings enter this house.  "How would it be!" crossed my mind, thinking about all of Oprah's gazillions. 

And then my mind went to thoughts of sleeping in our backyard in our tent with the babes, the memories that the bigs and the babes have of the many trips to the ranch, dogpiles on daddy, Doug's nightly foot rubs, thousands of card games played, walks in the mountains... all things that don't cost a dime.  I thought about my home, which I love, but it would fit inside Oprah's little zen room.  But, I've got something that she doesn't.  I've got six beautiful children and a husband that treats me with love and respect and kindness.  I've got a testimony of Christ.  I've got friends and extended family that matter so much.  Like I said... we all can't have it all.

  As I watched, I was intrigued by the concept.  Only happy thoughts enter this home.   I love that!  I think we'll work on that one even more!

 
I think of my friend Erin's quote board, one of the few things that were salvaged when her home was completely destroyed by an F-5 tornado in Iowa.  She and her husband and their two children and one on the way were alive, together, safe when this was over.  Her sign says, "We may not have it all together, but together we have it all."  Could that not be more perfectly appropriate for their situation?  For us all?

I'm reminded that, regardless of the "covet, covet, want, want", " you git what you git and you don't throw a fit!  In other words, appreciate and focus on what we do have instead of what we don't.   Or in other words, Count your many blessings.  Enough said.  Life is good.

Envy is the art of counting the other fellow's blessings instead of your own.