Annual Temple Square Trip

A couple of weeks ago, we had our annual Temple Square Trip. It was fun and not terribly cold. The kids had a GREAT time looking at the lights. There was even a tree with pink lights on it - which thrilled Noodle.

Lewlew, Noodle, and Buddy in front of the big snowflake.

The manger scene that looks almost real.

The tree in the JSM Building. Incredibly beautiful!

All of us in front of a tree made of lights.

Winter Wonderland

Sleigh Bells ring, are you listening? A beautiful sight, we're happy today, LIVING in a winter wonderland. It's been snowing ALL day. It's a good wet, heavy snow too. Last week we got 3 snow storms. And we're supposed to get 2 more before Friday. Yea for the snow and moisture! Boo, for those who don't know how to drive in it. Yea for my neighbors and their snow blowers! Boo for when they don't clear our walks! Yea for the workout I get clearing our walks! Boo for my sore back!

Our backyard

Our front yard and across the street.

A Special Day

Buddywas baptised on Saturday by his dad. Noodle and Papa Eric sang "I Am A Child Of God" and it was so neat. Bret then confirmed Austin a member of the church and gave him the Holy Ghost and gave him a great blessing. Afterwards we ate Hawaiian Haystacks - one of Buddy's favorite foods. It was yummy! It was such a wonderful day. Thanks to all those who brought food and helped us celebrate this happy day.

Hubs and Buddy

Buddy after he was confirmed.

Taylor, notice the tie he's wearing. It's the one you gave him. He loves it!

Happy Birthday Buddy!!

Buddy 6 weeks old

My first born in 8 years old today!! Sheesh!!! Where has the time gone. 2 years ago, Hubs and I walked to the church to attended a baptism of a friend of ours. That day we said that in just 2 short years we'd be doing the same thing for Buddy. Little did I know just how short these last 2 years have been. He was the absolute BEST early Christmas present ever. It brings tears to my eyes to see him, to see how big he is, to watch him with his sisters, to see him participate in FHE and Primary, to see him help his dad. He is such a sweet, tender young man. Buddy has such a special relationship with his Nana and I wouldn't change that for anything. He's in 2nd grade, loves Transformers and is quite good with the computer. (His favorite sites are Ebay and You Tube.) His favorite color is orange and he likes going to the cabin and playing with Zach. I'm so thankful for Buddy and the part he plays in our lives. Happy Birthday Buddy!

Buddy Oct 2008 - Almost 8 years old

PS He's going to be baptized Sat. For more info, leave a comment and I'll get back to you.

Christmas Lights

We just finished putting our outside lights on. Click below to see the video.

The Christmas Guest

It happened day near December’s end
Two neighbors called on an old friend.
They found his house so meager and lean
Made gay a thousand bows of green.
And Conrad was sittin’ with faces shine
When he suddenly stopped as he stitched a twine
And he said, “Oh friends at dawn today
When the cock was crowin’ the night away
The Lord appeared in a dream to me
And said ‘I’m comin’ your guest to be.’
So I’ve been busy with feet astir
And strewin’ my shop with branches of fir.
The table is spread and the kettle is shine
And over the rafters the holly is twine.
Now I’ll wait from my Lord to appear
And listen closely so I will hear his step
As he nears my humble place
And I’ll open the door and look on his face.”
So his friends went home and left Conrad alone
For this was the happiest day he’d known.
For long since his family had passed away
And Conrad had spent many a sad Christmas day.
But he knew with this Lord as his Christmas guest
This Christmas would be the dearest and best.
So he listened with only joy in his heart
And with every sound he would rise with a start
And look for the Lord to be at his door
Like the vision he’d had a few hours before.
So he ran to the window after hearing a sound
But all he could see on the snow covered ground
Was a shabby beggar whose shoes were torn
And all of his clothes were ragged and worn.
But he Conrad was touched and he went to the door
And he said, “Ya know, your feet must be frozen and sore.
I have some shoes in my shop for you
And a coat that’ll keep you warmer too.”
So with grateful heart the man went away
But Conrad noticed the time of day
And wondered what made the Lord so late
And how much longer he’d have to wait.
When he heard a knock he ran to the door
But it was only a stranger once more
A bent old lady with a shawl of black
With a bundle of kindling piled on her back.
She asked for only a place to rest,
But that was reserved for Conrad’s great guest.
But her voice seemed to plead, “Don’t send me away.
Let me rest for a while on Christmas Day.”
So Conrad brewed her a steamin’ cup
And told her to sit at the table and sup.
But after she left he was filled with dismay
For he saw that the hours were slipping away
And the Lord hadn’t come as he said he would
And Conrad felt sure he’d misunderstood.
When out of the stillness he heard a cry,
“Please help me and tell me where am I.”
So again he opened his friendly door
And stood disappointed as twice before.
It was only a child who’d wondered away
And was lost from her family on Christmas Day.
Again Conrad’s heart was heavy and sad
But he knew he should make the little girl glad.
So he called her in and wiped her tears
And quieted all her childish fears.
Then he led her back to her home once more
But as he entered his own darken door
He knew the Lord was not coming today.
For the hours of Christmas had passed away.
So he went to his room and knelt down to pray
And he said, “Dear Lord, why did you delay.
What kept you from coming to call on me?
For I wanted so much your face to see.”
When soft in the silence a voice he heard,
“Lift up your head for I kept my word.
Three times my shadow crossed your floor.
And 3 times I came to your lonely door.
I was the beggar with bruised cold feet.
I was the woman you gave something to eat.
I was the child on the homeless street.
Three times I knocked and three times I came in
And each time I found the warmth of a friend.
Of all the gifts love is the best.
And I was honored to be your Christmas guest.”

Colorado Christmas

One thing I miss about Colorado is the snow. It was different than here. When it snowed in my hometown, it stayed on the ground until late spring - because it was so freakishly cold. I don't miss that kind of cold, but because the snow lasted so long we almost always had a white Christmas. So even though this song is set in California, it's still one of my favorites.

Lookin’ out this window of this Hollywood hotel,
You’d never know that it was Christmas Eve.
The billboards and the neon took the place of silver bells,
And the temperature is 84 degrees.
I can hear the traffic on the crowded strip below,
As the palm trees poke their heads above the scene.
But there’s not a single reindeer and it hardly ever snows
And Santa drives a Roles Royce Limousine.
But all along the Rockies you can feel it in the air.
From Telluride to Boulder down below.
The closest thing to heaven on this planet anywhere,
Is a quiet Christmas morning in the Colorado snow.
I remember Christmases when I was just a boy,
In the morning I would run and see the tree.
And the carolers on the hillside sing their songs of Christmas joy.
Well I always thought they sang them just for me.
Now the sun is setting in the California sky,
And I can’t find the spirit anywhere.
So I think it’s time for me to tell Los Angelas good-bye.
I’m going back home to look for Christmas there.
But all along the Rockies you can feel it in the air,
From Telluride to Boulder down below
The closest thing to heaven on this planet anywhere,
Is a quiet Christmas morning in the Colorado snow.
It’s a quiet Christmas morning in the Colorado snow.

Annual Santa Trip

Every year we take the kids to see Santa. It was great this year. And the pictures turned out awesome! I'm so glad my kids are past the cry your eyes out to see Santa. Lewlew was so big and brave. If Buddy and Noodle can do then so can she. If any of you want to go see Santa, go to the Univ Mall Santa. He's better and cheaper!!!

Buddy is showing Santa his "list."

Noodle is talking to Santa.

Santa is listening to Lewlew.

CONTEST

So I was at the doctor's office the other day and this young lady came in with her 2 week old baby girl. The mom checked in her baby and I couldn't believe me ears. The baby's name is.....

The first one with the correct guess will get a Christmas ornament of some kind. I'll announce the winner in a couple of days. Good luck to all!

Christmas Memories...

I am inviting everyone who wants to (this means those of you who ALWAYS read and never post a comment), to post in the comments of this post, their favorite Christmas memory(ies) and or traditions. Here are just a few of mine:

When I was young - before any of my generation got married or moved - we always went to Grandma and Grandpa's. We had a pinata and starting with the younges first we lined up to take a couple swings at it. We always had hot cocoa and some sort of food (sandwiches, chili, chicken noodle soup). We drew names earlier in the year, so we exchanged gifts and got to open that gift. Then we got to open the gift from Grandma and Grandpa. Then we all went to our homes and went to bed.

As we got older the pinata and gifts were done away with and we started giving food storage as gifts.

When Bret and I were first married, we spent Christmas Eve with his parents and sisters and nephew and nieces. At first it was nice. Then when we had kids, it got to be too much. So we spend the odd years with his parents on Christmas Eve and the even years at home. When we spend it with Grandma and Grandpa, there are 15 people so there are tons of gifts. Then we have some sort of waffle concoctions for breakfast. A few years we've gone to a movie Christmas afternoon. Some years we've gone over to Great Grandma's. At some point in the season, Bret's extended family has a progressive dinner where we go to 4 or 5 families home for some part of a meal.

When we spend Christmas at home, we build a fire on Christmas Eve and light lots of candles and read the Christmas Story from the bible while eating something and drinking hot cocoa. Sometimes we let the kids open 1 gift - usually jammies. Then Christmas morning, we open gifts and just sorta hang out for a couple hours and then we head over to Bret's parents. Almost every year during the season, we go to Temple Square to see the lights. That hasn't got old yet! It's one of our favorite traditions.

We also like to do the 12 days of Christmas for someone or a Secret Santa. Also every year, we take the kids shopping. They pick out something they want, we buy it and have the kids donate it to Toys 4 Tots. We all really like doing that.

Christmas is a really great time to focus on Christ and all of our blessings. I try to bring Christ in more and more every year. I hope to impress on my kids' minds that Santa is the spirit of giving. That Christmas is about Christ and giving, NOT recieving. It's hard when they're so young. But hopefully it will sink in.

I hope we all enjoy this magical season and keep the spirit of Jesus and giving in our hearts.

Twilight Movie - revised

Please post a comment on this post and tell me what you thought of the Twilight movie. I'd just like to know what everyone thinks. I'll post my opinion later - I wouldn't want to impact your true opinion :-)
So go ahead, don't be shy. Tell me what you think....

OK since it appears no one else is going to post their opinion, here is my opinion...

I like it. I thought the actors did really well. I wasn't sure about Rob Pattinson, but in the end, I thought he did really good. Same with Bella. I thought Kristen did a great job. There were definitely corny parts, but there was in the book too. (On a side not about Kristen, I hope she doesn't follow in Nikki Reed's shoes. Nikki is kind of a skank - unless she's cleaned up her image that last few years. Kristen has a lot going for her and I don't want her to end up like Lindsay Lohan or one of "those" girls.") My favorite actor is probably Kellan Lutz, aka Emmett. He did a fabulous job. He's such a jokester in real life and quite the dare devil too. But I thought he nailed his part. When he first made his appearance I looked over at Val and said "Uhh Damn." I think my favorite scene is when Bella and Edward made their relationship public at school - when everyone was looking at them.
There were only 3 things that I really didn't like.
1. I didn't like how stiff Jasper was. That was annoying.
2. I didn't like how Bella wore panties for jammies. In the book she always wore old sweats.
3. I didn't like how Carlise told Edward to quit sucking Bella's blood. In the book he was strong enough.

All in all, I really liked it. I'm excited for New Moon - which they will begin filming in March or April. They will have a bigger budget too. I really hope New Moon does super good so they will have the budget for Eclipse and Breaking Dawn. I have heard they are going to do Eclipse, but I haven't heard anything about Breaking Dawn. Stephenie did say she didn't know if Breaking Dawn could be made into a single movie. But if Titanic was 3 hours long Breaking Dawn can be that long. I say - Go for it!!

New Moon...

I'm sure most of you have heard this, but I thought I would post it anyway. Here is a direct quote from Stephenie Meyer's website...

Los Angeles, CA November 22, 2008 — Summit Entertainment announced today that the studio is officially moving forward with the production of NEW MOON, the second installment of its filmed franchise TWILIGHT, the action-packed, modern day vampire love story. The movie will be based on the second novel in author Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series titled, New Moon. The first movie in the TWILIGHT franchise, the self-titled TWILIGHT, arrived in theaters this weekend to sold-out showings.

I can't wait to hear more info on New Moon. This is VERY good news!

ZZZZZZZZZZ.......

I find Lewlew in the strangest sleeping positions...

Learning to potty in the toilet and be VERY exhausting!

If you look closely, you can see the ring around her bum from her potty seat.

She just worked too hard getting ready for the cabin.

Rough day at the office!

Sleep well sweet Lewlew!

Lewlew is 3!

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Girl!!

Lewlew - the day she come home from the hospital. She was

so beautiful. She had great color and wasn't wrinkely and

absolutly NO cone head what so ever. Thank you C-section!

Lewlew and Mom - Avrie 6 weeks old

This is one of my very favorite pictures. I wish I had a

black top on though. Look at her rolls!

Lewlew 1 year old

I love her mouth in this picture. I reminds me of my

Grandpa Bud.

Lewlew 2 years old

Just look at her Budda Belly and pig tails. Her

hair really grew a lot from year 1 to year 2.

Lewlew 3 years old

Look at her grin. Pure sweetness or is it orneriness?

I made this dress as a model garment for Emma a

couple years ago.

I cannot believe your 3. The years have gone by WAY to fast. I had to stop and think about it to make sure you are really turning 3 and not 2. I know you're not a baby anymore, but you'll always be my baby. It took a long time getting you here, but we've enjoyed you every second. I'm SO glad you're apart of our family. You have brought much joy and love and laughter to our home. You are so dang sweet! You are either smiling or crying. I love when you like to snuggle with me. I love your hugs and kisses. I love your sweet voice. I just love you!!

Twilight

So last night Bret and I were watching TV when a comercial for the Twilight Movie came on. I expressed my excitement to see the movie and then for it to come out on DVD. I told him I wanted two moives, one that I can watch and the other just keep in case something happend to the first one. He looked at me really weird like he didn't understand where I was coming from. Am I weird????

Halloween Weekend

Halloween went well for us. The kids had a party and costume parade at school - which they loved. As ewe were getting ready to go to Grandma and Grandpa's, Buddy got mad and threw a fit and said he didn't want to go. After much arguing and being very belligerent, I said he would stay home with me. So Hubs took the girls trick or treating. Buddy and I sat on our porch (without coats on) and handed out treats. After Buddy got the idea that the little kids can pick their treat but the big kids could not, I started raking leaves and trying to clear out some of the dead stuff. I tried to burn a pile, but apparently it wasn't dry enough because it didn't burn. But it was such a nice night. I NEVER remember a Halloween where we didn't have to wear at least a jacket. The girls and Hubs came home with more candy that I would like, but they all had a good time. (I didn't take pictures this night because I already did - see the post way below.)

The next day - Saturday - the whole family went to the cabin for the day. It had been years since Mandi has been and she wanted to see all the changes. We had lunch and messed around for a while and then came home. It was kinda nice. I got to follow Eric around and see how to turn on the electricity and water and how to drain it and make it winter ready again. That was kinda fun - since I had NO idea. I like doing things like that with Eric - he cracks me up. He's so knowledgeable about things like that.

Mandi left on Sunday. And now our life is back to normal. Lewlew doesn't seem to be feeling very well. She keeps spiking a fever. But then after some medicine, it goes away for a day and then it comes back. She has her appetite back so I'm not too worried.

So I guess that's the happenings for us. Not really too much!

Productive Mornining

This morning, I bottled 17 pints of chicken, bathed the girls (they usually bathe at night), swept and mopped the kitchen, hall, living room and bathrooms, cleaned the big bathroom, vacuumed the family room and washed 2 loads of laundry. My back hurts and now I need a 10 hour nap!

Remembering Grandpa Bud

It was just a year ago yesterday that my grandpa passed away. For all my childhood, he was the only "dad" I had. He was the closest priesthood holder to me. He was the one who baptised me and gave me countless blessings over the years. I can still remember what his hands felt like on my head. He was quite a tease and always had a funny joke. He was THE best story teller ever. He could entertain us for hours with his stories, all of them true. He was a tender man who had a strong testimony. With his sweetheart of 61 years, they served 3 missions, South Dakota, Louisiana, and Denver Temple. He was quite crafty. He did bead work and "puttered" with things in his sheds. He could make or fix just about anything. His name was really Lewis Eldon Martin, but went by Bud Martin his whole life. Some people didn't even know his real name. That is why we call our oldest child "Bud" or "Buddy" and our youngest we call "Lew Lew". Grandpa used to call us "Noodle" or "Noodle head" and so that's why we call our middle child "Noodle." This has been a difficult week and I'm once again thankful for the plan of salvation. I know we will be reunited with our loved one and this is a very peaceful feeling.

Farewell

Our beloved Grandpa, just 1 month shy of his 89th birthday, passed away at 6:00 this evening. He leaves behind his sweet wife, Ruth, of 62? years, 4 kids, 22 grandkids, 29 great-grandkids. On the other side, he met his son, parents, brothers, and numerous other family members. He will surely be missed.

(Below is a wordier post about Grandpa.)

Tagged

I'm tagged - thanks Emily! Here's what you do. Go to your fourth picture folder and pick the fourth picture and explain it. So here's mine. I have 2 - it depends on which 4th folder I chose. It's a long story! I tag Jeni, Nancy, Kristin, Patience.


This is from the Living Planet Aquarium. We were petting the sting ray's. It was awesome. Even Austin pet one and he liked it. The girls just liked splashing the water.



This is Emma. She was playing and dressed up and this is what she came up with. I took her picture because she reminded me of one of the girls from the movie Thelma and Louise.

Life and Death

Our Grandpa (it's actually Bret's grandpa but he's always been a grandpa to me too) is in a nursing home where he isn't expected to live 24 hours. I had the wonderful opportunity to spend the night with him at the nursing home. So for 9 hours, it was just me and Grandpa. The fatigue that I feel from 45 minutes of sleep was more than worth it. Seriously, 45 minutes. I was afraid to sleep because I might miss the time for him to have more Morphine. He was getting it every 90 minutes and I wanted to stay on top of it and make sure he didn't miss a dose. My heart ached for this dear and wonderful man who was lying so helpless struggling to die, struggling to live. He's always been a goer and a doer. He was never one to be idle. So for the past few years, he really hasn't been himself. Nine years ago, he fell while he and Grandma were on vacation. He received a big bump on his head and there were complications. So he needed to go off his blood thinner medication so the doctor could operate. Well 8 hours of not having blood thinner, he had a stroke. He was in the hospital for 2 months. He wasn't expected to make it then and he did. He had a couple of fairly good years - not his normal busy self, but not completely house bound. But the last several (4 or so) he has been almost completely house bound. He hasn't been able to build anything or work with his hands and this has been very frustrating for him. He was a superior craftsman. He could build anything and everything. He was incredibly creative. I wish I could show you some of his great works. The Philippin Temple is one of them. He's build countless cedar chest, dressers, beds, tables, cupboards, a cabin, a few houses and so much more for family and friends. His wood work was absolutely magnificent. We are fortunate to have a few pieces of his work in our home. Three weeks ago he was admitted into the hospital because he was bleeding on his brain. Grandma was advised to take him off his blood thinner. He would probably have a stroke soon and it would take him because he is so weak. So for the past 3 weeks he hasn't had any blood thinner and he hasn't had a stroke yet. (If he'd stayed on the blood thinner, he would have continued bleeding and would have had massive headaches until he died.) As I set there watching him, I was hoping and praying he would just pass from this life to the next into the loving arms of so many dear family members and friends. Many times through the night, I thought he had taken his last breath, but to my surprise, he gasped and started breathing again. Death is not the worst thing to have happen. There are things worse than death. And for the sake of everyone, I pray that Grandpa will soon be released from this life. When he finally makes to the other side, I will not be sad because I know that death is not the end. Miss him? Of course. But, I'm sure he's anxious to get to the other side to be free of his many Earthly restrictions and I'm excited for him. I'm excited for him to start building again, to be able to move about as he chooses, to be his ol' self again. How grateful I am for the Plan of Salvation. How grateful I am to have know Grandpa, for however short of time.

3 of a kind

Several years ago, a good friend of mine told me that her kids (she has 3 - a boy and then 2 girls) would play very well together as long as one of them was taken out of the equation. It didn't matter which one. But the 3 of them couldn't play all together without soon fighting. I remember advising her jokingly that she should have had just 1 more. But because she was Mrs. Fertile Mertal, she had her tubes tied. (And plus she was very content with 3 kids.) Now, I haven't talked to her lately about it and her kids are getting older so maybe they are getting along better. But here I am, some time later and I am in the same predicament. (Too bad I can't take my own advise.) Does/did this ever happen to any of you who have 3 kids or came from a family of 3 kids? Any solutions, suggestions? It's so frustrating to have your kids arguing or bickering. How can I effectively keep peace in my home??

Move over Welch's

So last week I went to Aunt Laura's and picked a bunch of Concord Grapes. Then for 2 days last week, I made grape juice. I lost count how many quarts I made. About 24 or so. Anyway, today, I used 5 cups of the grape juice and made grape jelly (the cooked kind). MMMM it's so good. I've made peach and strawberry, but this was the first time I made grape. I think I'll do it more often. It was super easy! You can also make it from frozen grape juice concentrate - for anyone who wants to know. None of this would have been possible if it weren't for Aunt Laura's generosity! Thanks a "bunch"!

Poopie List...

Bathroom Humor at it's finest!


Ghost Poopie
The kind where you feel the poopie come out, but there is not poopie in the toilet.

Clean Poopie
The kind where you poopie it out, see it in the toilet, but there’s nothing on the toilet paper.

Second Wave Poopie
This happens when you’re done poopieing and you’ve pulled up your pants to your knees, and you realize that you have to poopie some more.

Pop-A-Vein-In-Your-Forehead-Poopie
The kind where you strain so much to get it out, you practically have a stroke.

Drinker Poopie
The kind of poopie you have the morning after a long night drinking. It’s most noticeable that is the skid marks on the bottom of the toilet.

Corn Poopie
Self-explanatory.

Gee-I-Wish-I-Could-Poopie Poopie
The kind where you want to poopie but all you do is sit on the toilet and fart a few times.

Wet Poopie
The kind where you wipe your butt 50 times and it still fees unwiped, so you have to put some toilet paper between your butt and underwear so you won’t ruin them with a stain.

Spinal Tap Poopie
That’s where it hurts so badly coming out, you would swear it was leaving you sideways.

Wet Cheeks Poopie (The Power Dump)
The kind that comes out of your butt so fast, your butt gets splashed with water.

The Dangling Poopie
This poopie refuses to drop into the toilet even though you know you are done poopie-in it. You just pray that a shake or two will cut it loose.

Liquid Poopie
The kind where yellowish-brown liquid shoots out your butt and splashes all over the toilet bowl.

Fisherman Bobbing Poopie
The kind of poopie that no matter how many times you flush there is still poopie bobbing at the top.

Gassy Poopie
It’s so noisy, everyone within earshot is laughing.

The Surprise Poopie
You’re not even at the toilet because you are sure you’re about to fart, but oops…..a poopie!!!

Lincoln Log Poopie
The kind of poopie that is so huge you’re afraid to flush without first breaking it into little pieces with the toilet brush.

Optimus Prime, Aurora and Belle

Here is Optimus Prime. Do not be frightened, he comes in peace. He is sending a message to all Autobots reading this. "We are here. We are waiting."

This lovely beauty is Aurora. She is wearing a beautiful pink and white one of a kind gown sewn by her mom and all her accessories are from Wal-Mart.

May I present to you, Belle. She is wearing a beautiful gold gown made especially for Belle by her mom and her shoes are exclusively from Target.

Buddy's second grade picture.

Noodle's Kindergarten picture.

This is Lewlew's 3 year picture.

A special thanks to Aunt Gina for so willingly giving her time and talents to make all of these pictures possible. We really appreciate it!

Move Over Martha Steuart!!

Well, with the help of Lewlew, I finished canning tomatoes. She was such a help ;) She was wet from head to waste by the time she had enough. But I was glad for her "help" even though at times she was more of a hindrance. It was fun talking and singing with her.

This picture is of Lewlew and my mom helping me can peaches.

We ended up canning 12 quarts of peaches and 12 quarts of tomatoes. Now for the grape juice and jelly.

Tag, I'm it!

I am: blogging...
I think: I should clean my bathroom
I have: cold feet
I dislike: cleaning toilets
I miss: staying up late and sleeping in.
I fear: my computer crashing
I feel: happy
I hear: Avrie talking along to "Nemo"
I smell: like Secret Shower Fresh Deoderant
I crave: Dr. Pepper
I cry: a lot
I usually: blog once a week.
I search: for good deals
I wonder: what life will be like in 5 years
I regret: so many things!
I wish: I could make better use of my time
I love: my family
I care: about what my kids wear to school.
I always: have something to do
I worry: about all I have to do
I am not: bored
I remember: when my kids were born.
I believe: the gospel
I sing: in church
I don't always:
I write: in my journal
I win: Phase 10
I lose: Hearts
I listen: to my kids
I don't understand: what Avrie says some of the time
I can usually be found: at home
I need: caffiene
I forget: I can't remember...
I am happy: most of the time

I tag: Emily, Nancy, Krystal and Alta

Give A Damn

Since I had strep a couple weeks ago, my "give a damn" has been broken. I just don't feel like doing anything. When I get up in the morning I stand in front of my closet for a long time because I just don't feel like getting dressed. I don't feel like cleaning, playing or anything. It's been very frustrating! So the other day, Mister called and told me not to do anything but dress and feed the kids and myself. Duh, that's all I've been doing. But he said to do something like sew, scrapbook or whatever. In the past when he has said this, I've said "ok", and then did everything anyway. But this time, I decided to take him up on his offer. When he got home, he cleaned up and did so much with the kids. He did this for 3 days. (Ya, I know, I'm not the best wife - but my "give a damn" was broken.) And I can't believe the results! Our house looks better and I'll be damned, my give a damn is working better. What a FABULOUS husband I have. I'm so thankful for him. He's the best! Thanks Hunny, I love you!

Well worth the money

We buy our dishwasher detergent from Costco - so it comes in a big container. The last time I opened one, I wrote the date on the lid. It was 10-23-07. Yesterday I opened a new one. It lasted almost a whole year. Holy cow!! I think that's was what called a good buy!

Life is NOT very "Grape" at the moment...

Guess who's been sick, again. Surely no on at the Tuttle house. Wishful thinking. Lewlew woke up Wednesday morning about 1:30 throwing up. She only threw up once and then felt kinda yucky for the rest of Wednesday and some of Thursday. Noodle woke up Friday night about 11:30 throwing up. She threw up off and on all day Saturday - with about 3 hours in between throw ups. We thought it had passed through up, but to our surprise, she threw up Sunday night about 11:00 - just once. On Saturday, I was nauseous and not feeling well. I threw up once late Saturday night and have slowly recovered since. At the moment, my mom isn't feeling very well. I'm not sure what her "throw up" status is. And we're just waiting for Buddy and Hubs to get it and then see if it starts all over again. Isn't life wonderful???

Weather & Potty Training

This weather is killing me. It's like we're having an Indian Summer. It's in the mid to upper 80's. When my aunt was here from Colorado, she said it has already frozen there! Then we have some pretty chilly days and now it's upper 80's. Go figure. I'm trying to enjoy it. Cold weather is on the way. Maybe this means we'll have a really WET winter?? Wishful thinking???

So Lewlew can sing many songs, she can transform some of Buddy's transformers, she has a few books memorized but she won't consistantly potty in the toilet. Is it me? Am I doing something wrong? Is it the weather?? It's so annoying! She's smart, she knows (at least I think so) but she won't do it! Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

Birthday Cupcake

I made cupcakes for Hubs's birthday. Even though they didn't turn out like the picture on the recipe did, I think they turned out OK. They were yummy too!

This "doll" cake was made by Bestie for my mom. Thanks, Bestie!! You did a FABULOUS job!

This kids decided Nana needed flowers for her birthday:

And for me, because I was sick. They are sure pretty.

Sicko's

So a few weeks ago - Bret got sick. Some sort of infection. Then he had to have a scope - on his esophagus. Then he got staff infection and then cellulitous on his face. (I didn't get pictures.) The most serious was the cellulitous. Apparently it can cause brain damage, meningitis, all kinds of things. He ended up having 2 BIG shots of antibiotic and a prescription of antibiotics. He is on the mend and his face looks MUCH better. Then I got strep - again! Third time this year. Of course it was bad. I ended up having a shot of muscle relaxer, and then 2 days later a shot of antibiotic, a shot of steroid, and a shot of pain reliever and sleep aid. Finally we are all on the mend. As of right now my throat doesn't hurt as much as my butt!! I think we are all doing pretty well at the moment. But unfortunately, I missed most of my Aunt's visit. (I'm so sorry Aunt Kate. Please come back again!) I hope this isn't a pre-cursor for what this winter will bring!!

Happy Birthday, Mister!

Today, the 19th, is Mister's birthday. He is 33 years YOUNG!!

When I asked Buddy what his favorite thing about his dad is, this is what he had to say:

"I like when we play tackle. I like when he transforms my transformers. I like when play action figures and dinosaurs together. I like when he helps me with my homework. When I grow up I want to be just like my Daddy. I love you Dad!"

This is what Noodle said:

"I like to play tackle. I like him to push me on

the swing. I like when he reads me a story and

then snuggles with me. I like when he plays horsey. I love for Dad to carry me. I also like him to tickle me. He's the best dad!"

Lewlew sorta said:

"I like to play 'Daddy the Human Slide.' I like when he carries me on his feet. I like to have him push me on the swing and chase me. I like when he sings the "Whopdedooper" song. I just love him!!

Before I met Mister, I didn't think there were any guys like him left. I thought I could find a good enough guy, but to actually find one of "those" guys that "other people" talked about was not even a distant hope for me. Imagine my surprise when we started dating. There was at least one of them left. Yipee!!! Marring him was probably the best thing I've ever done. Our life hasn't been perfect (is there such a thing) but I've never been unhappy. He is very considerate and kind to others, especially his loved ones. He has a strong testimony of the gospel. He's one heck of a husband and a terrific dad to our kids. My life would just not be complete without him. Before this gets too mushy, I love you, Hunny. Happy Birthday!!

The bottom picture is during one of Hubs' many Karate tournament. He eventually earned a second degree black belt. He also earned his Eagle Scout when he was 14. You wouldn't know it now because he keeps his hair so short but he still has really curly hair. Thankfully a little was passed on to our girls.

Happy Birthday, Mom!!

Tuesday, the 16th, was my mom's birthday. I'm a little late posting because I've been sick - again! Anyway her sister came from Colorado. As a family we went on the Heber Creeper and Mom and Aunt Kate spent the days driving and visiting. It was so fun for my mom. Thanks for coming Aunt Kate!

Besides Bret, my mom is my best friend. She's always been there for me - even when I wasn't at my best. She has a strong testimony of the gospel and lives her religion. She's very caring and giving and compassionate and humble. When I was growing up, it was just the 2 of us most of the time. Several times I asked her to "borrow" money. She would go to her purse and literally give me the last $5 or $10 she had. She gave service all the time. She went back to college and graduated in three years with a BA and was on the dean's list

every semester. She's awesome! She's been a fabulous mom and she's

a fantastic Nana. I don't know what I would do without her. I'm so very thankful she lives with us. We love her and wish her a very happy 60th birthday!

I'm not sure how old she was in the baby picutre. But the picture of her in the blue sweater was her senior picture. The other one she was 26 years old.

Wasn't she pretty?? I mean once you take away the big hair and outdated clothes.

School

Buddy and noodle are doing good in school - so far. Mrs. Craft told me Buddy gives her a hug almost everyday. She said he's a sweet boy. He likes school ok - but doesn't love it. He hate that at lunch he can't have seconds on the main course (pizza) until everyone has been served. I keep telling him he needs to eat the other things on his tray.

Noodle loves kindergarten. She loves Mrs. Robinough. She loves the kids in her class. I wonder how long it will last. Hopefully longer than it did with Buddy.

There are some things I'll miss with the kids in school. Here are a few:

- the kids being able to lounge around in their jammies until whatever time

- not having to worry about the time

- not having to do homework, after school clubs, etc.

What I WON'T miss:

- the doorbell ringing 22 times a day

- "Mom can I..." 17 times a day

- 12 outfits a day because they are too hot or got wet or whatever!

I'm glad for changes. About the time I get really tired of the heat, fall comes and it cools off. About the time I'm so sick of cold I could scream, spring comes and it warms up. (I am thankful we live where the seasons change. I always say this weather (what we are having right now - in the 70's) is Celestial weather, but I wonder if I would get tired of it after a few years. I don't know. It's never stay around long enough for me to be ready for it to change.) It the same with summer break. I get tired (just like the kids) of homework and having to work around school schedules etc. So summer break is welcome. But then I am ready for them to go back. So it all evens out.

Lewlew and I are having fun going on bike rides (the bike trailer is SO much lighter without Noodle!) and playing. She's a little sweetie and a great companion for me. We talk about all kinds of stuff. She has her own language and a lot of time I can't understand her, but we talk a lot. I don't know what I'll do when she starts school in 2010!

Weather

I have been loving the weather - even Sunday night Monday morning when we lots of rain. The temps have been celestial. I wish this could last a few more weeks. But I'll enjoy it while I can. I hope everyone else enjoys it, too!

Noodle's 1st Day of Kindergarten

Monday, Aug 25, 2008 was Noodle's first day of Kindergarten. She's 5 1/2 years old, already. She was plenty ready for school and very excited. Her teacher is Mrs. Robinough.

This is Noodle and Allye. Allye lives 2 doors from us and is in the same class as Noodle. They walk to and from school together.

This is another girl, Nautica, who lives inbetween these 2 girls. She's in Kindergarten too, but she's in all day - so I'll have to post her picture later. The 3 of them can walk home together and play together at recess.

LOVE/HATE

I love these trees - we have 2 of them in our back yard. They're huge! In this picture we only have 1 "sky chair" but we usually have 2 of them up. It's so nice to sit in the swing and sway under the AWESOME shade these trees provide.

I absolutely HATE what these beautiful trees leave us in the fall.

The first one (the greenest one) is how they start. And the spikes aren't very pokey. They are still soft. Then as they start to dry up the begin to get pokey. And pokier until they drop off into our grass. (The farthest right one). So there is no running barefoot in our backyard. We rake them up and try to get as many as we can, but there is NO way we can get all of them. It's SOOO obnoxious and it's really a pain - pun intended. If you step on one, they are so brittle, it breaks off in your foot. OUCH!!!

Buddy's First Day of Second Grade

On Monday, Aug 18, 2008, Buddy started 2nd grade. His teacher is Mrs. Craft. He's excited!! He's 7 1/2 years old.

A Girl After My Own Heart!

Noodle likes to play with Barbie's. She likes to dress them and accessorize them. But a lot of times she can't find the right clothes. So she found this odd sock and wanted me to make a couple cuts so it could be a dress. I was amazed how well it turned out! The heel of this sock fit perfectly with the Barbie's bum so it doesn't look weird. It's stretchy so she can EASILY dress and undress it. Plus it's a GREAT idea for odd socks.