Whine and Cheese

School's Out for Summer...almost

2010-06-28T21:17:00.000-07:00

The school year is finally over for the kids, and almost over for me. I have to put in two days this week and then I am free! I cannot wait. I don't think that I've had a summer off since Grade nine. I have so many things planned to do, that I'm afraid it will be September before I know it. I want to clean and organize my house, weed the yard, paint the house, the shutters and the front door, paint three bedrooms in the house and finish all of the little jobs in the house that need finishing. I also want to go camping in Waterton with my kids and go to "Writing-on-Stone". Oh, and then there's the trip to the cabin in three weeks, Settler days and a trip to Denver for Charlotte's wedding in August. I am almost giddy thinking about the fun we are going to have in the next two months. Who knows, I must just decide not to go back to work in the fall!

A Child's Prayer

2010-04-26T12:07:00.000-07:00

"Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank thee for today.
Please bless that I will see my brother Scott again.
Please bless that I will be able to do "Head, Shoulders Knees and Toes" really fast.
Bless that Gracie will be able to get a bunny and that she will let me play with it on the grass.
Bless that our family will be loved next week.

In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen"

-Josh's prayer last night...love that boy!

Self-Reliance Test...FAIL!

2010-04-16T19:07:00.000-07:00

Tuesday at work I kept hearing my co-workers asking each other if they were "ready for the storm". Storm? We have satellite TV and radio, and I don't really spend much time listening to local news, so this was news to me. It did start to snow in the afternoon, but I was sure (since I have a degree in meteorology...*sarcasm*) that it would melt as quickly as it fell. So, I went home, ran my kids to piano and proceeded to rest from my busy day, putting off grocery shopping for the next day. First the Satellite TV and the internet went out. That was ok...we decided to watch a movie. Then the power went out. Well, that was ok as well since it was bedtime. So, we went to bed. Katie woke me up at 6:30am to a chilly, dark house. Still no power. Hmmm. Maybe the news was correct! Kate plowed her way to the car through thigh high snow and listened to the radio to find out that yes, it was a snow day. This was great news, but the fact that we still had no power was a little concerning to me.

Did our flashlights have batteries that worked? No. Did we have our candles stored where we could find them? No. Was our car filled with gasoline in case we needed to drive somewhere? No. Did we have food to feed our family that didn't require cooking? No. Were we out of cat and dog food, milk, eggs and toilet paper? Yes. Did I suggest that we use the propane stove INSIDE? Yes. (Jason shook his head and informed me that although we would be able to cook food, we might die. Whatever!!) Were our 72 hour kits over 4 years old? Yes. (Mmmm. Beef Jerky.) WERE WE OUT OF DIET COKE??? YES!!!! CRISIS!!

I was starting to get a little panicked. (not just because of the Diet Coke situation) We stayed under the blankets and waited for our heat to turn back on, while we listened to the heavy snow breaking the limbs from our trees. Yikes. Our two big pine trees in the front are now splintered and in need of some repair.

Well, the power came on at about 4pm in the afternoon, just in time to make Gracie, Josh and our neighbor Shelby some hot chocolate to warm their cold little "snow fort making" bodies. I was grateful to have a good book that I could read while I listened to my children complain about being "cut off from the world". (ahem....Kate.) All-in-all, it was a day to remember and a day to test our non-existent preparedness skills. Yes, we have enough wheat to choke a horse in our food storage, but I am now thinking that I should be planning for something more like what we just experienced.

On the bright side, the phones at work were out yesterday and today. I sure did get a lot done!

2010-04-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

Do you see the similarity? I've always told Katie that she has my mom's smile and her eyes. Lucky girl!

Mothers

2010-04-05T15:35:00.001-07:00

I have been thinking a lot about Mothers lately. A few weeks back a dear friend of my mother passed away suddenly. I was filled with mixed emotions as I watched her family mourn her loss. It is so touching to see the impact that a righteous mother can have on her family, and yet it is so sad knowing how hard the coming years will be for her family. How hard Christmas is, and birthdays, and every holiday that mothers seem to be able to make so special. As I sat next to my dear Dad at the funeral, I couldn't help but think of the 18 years that have passed since my own beautiful mother passed away. It is so hard knowing how those daughters feel, and it made me realize that the pain of losing a mother doesn't ever go away. It changes, but the void is always there. My sister-in-law Denise's mother just passed away last week, and again I found myself wondering how daughters get through the loss of a mother. It just stops your life and you find yourself on your own for the very first time. In one of my self-help books it says this about losing a mother at any age.

"The loss of a mother is one of the most profound events that will occur in a woman's life, and like a loud sound in an empty house, it echoes on and on."

So often I find myself wishing that I could talk to her and ask her for help with my own inadequacies as a mother and a wife. My mom had such a strong testimony of the gospel and she loved the scriptures and the peace that the gospel brought her. I could use some of that strength as I try to teach my children those same truths.

What I have found is that when someone so valuable is taken from us, there are others who step in and fill a small part of the void left. I love my dad and understand and appreciate him so much more than I did before my mom died. I have a wonderful mother-in-law who is a fantastic Grandmother to my children. I just sometimes wish that I could send my little ones over to "Grandma Woods" so that she could instill some of the wisdom that came so easily to her.

I talk about my mom often and love it when I see her in my children. I am so grateful that I had her as my mother on earth for 23 years and that through the Plan of Salvation, she will always be my dear Mother.

Overheard at Josh's 5th Birthday Party

2010-03-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

"Come here you Kanye Coffee-Maker" -one of Josh's more random name-calling moments while chasing a friend.

"We used to have a cat, but it started scratching the furniture. Now it lives on a farm." -Logan (Logan's dad shared what happened to his cats last year. They are not on a farm.:) )

"Rock on" -I heard Josh yell this at least 5 times.

"Ellie went to heaven to live with Jesus in the clouds" -one of the boys shared this while watching the movie "Up" in the van.

"My mom says that my dad and I don't have to wash our hands" -one of the boys after using the bathroom.

We had Josh's birthday party today, and all-in-all, it was a success. We took the 6 little boys to see "How to Train Your Dragon" in 3D. I watched it without my glasses because while I was getting settled, Jason stepped on my glasses and snapped the arms off. I tried just holding the lenses to my face, but that proved troublesome and didn't allow for sufficient popcorn eating freedom. So, I'm sporting a bit of a headache now from watching the blurry screen. The movie was fantastic and the boys were so cute! It was a lot of fun.
Jason took the kids to his moms in Raymond, so I may just go lay in bed and watch TV. That sounds so good!!

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

2010-03-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

Last night I was trying to decide what kind of cupcakes to bake for Josh's birthday treat at preschool. I stumbled across Kaleigh's blog (www.kandknelson.blogspot.com) and discovered the most wonderful recipe website! It's www.ourbestbites.com and it is amazing! I can't wait to try all of the recipes.

Anyhow, Josh was watching me peruse this sight and took a fancy to some very bright rainbow cupcakes. I doubted that they would turn out anything like the picture on the website, but I was wrong. They are SO BRIGHT and very delicious. It is a little tedious at first to layer the colors, but once I saw how they were turning out, it became quite fun. The frosting that I made was also incredible. I'm not sure that food is supposed to be these colors, but I think the kids will love them.

Oh, and "Happy Birthday" to my big 5 year old boy! I will post more on that tomorrow.

Good night!

Bada Bing Bada Boom

2010-02-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

Josh enjoys watching "Cake Boss" on TLC with the girls and I. A couple of days ago he announced to me that for his birthday he wanted a cake with "fondant" and "ganache"... I must have appeared surprised because he quickly explained that "Ganache is chocolate, mom!" Love that boy!

2010-02-15T09:14:00.000-08:00

This week has been one to forget! I am feeling very whiny and very tired of being sick. I woke up with a congested chest about 2 weeks ago, and since that time it has morphed into strep throat and some weird swollen and red-faced ailment. My face felt like it was sun-burned for 2 days and then it became swollen and now it is peeling! WHAT THE HECK?? I usually get sick, take it easy for a day, and then I am back at it. This one has knocked me down and it really sucks! I admit that I am a little vain, and the peeling face isn't something that I am enjoying. I am hoping that I can get rid of this nastiness by the time I have to go back to work on Friday. In the meantime, I am going to try not to complain too much. I also realized today where I get my "compassion" for the sick from. My dad called at 8am to tell me that he was going to Arizona. After he berated me for not picking up the phone yesterday, I tried to explain that the reason I didn't get to the phone was that everyone else was at church and I was medicated and sleeping and trying to get better. He cut me off and said, "Well, we will be back in two weeks, so I'll try to call you then" OK? I love my dad but I believe I was raised to think that being sick was being weak. I have carried the torch of "Non-Compassion" well as I have also had very little tolerance for sickness in others. I do have sympathy for my kids when they are sick, but as Jason can tell, I do expect adults to "suck it up" and get on with things. Well, that's enough psycho-analysis for one morning. I will now get up and clean my house, because I am not weak...I am strong! Oh, that hurt!

What did I do last night?

2010-02-10T18:57:00.000-08:00

Last night, while watching "American Idol", I baked, decorated and packed up 6 dozen sugar cookies for Josh's class, baked and packed up 3 dozen banana-coconut muffins, helped Josh address 10 Valentine's for his Pre-school class, put my friend Charlene's birthday present in a bag, and prepared 20 bags for Josh's Pre-school snack. I was on a roll, but today I am exhausted! All things in moderation?? Not so much.

Love is in the Air

2010-02-08T14:24:00.000-08:00

Today I am dedicating my blog post to a fairly-new obsession of mine. About 2 months ago I decided to buy an episode of "Modern Family" off of I-tunes to see what the scuttlebutt was about. I figured that anything that Christopher Lloyd was associated with, would be great. From the first 2 minutes I was hooked! I love the characters, the story lines, and I love laughing until I pee my pants. Ok, maybe I don't LOVE that, but I do love to laugh. I have downloaded all of the episodes I can get my hands on, and I have been sharing my love of this show with friends and family. I finally convinced Jason to sit down with me last night and watch the episode "Come Fly with Me". I knew he would love it, and he did. It's great that at the end of a very long day I can sit in bed and watch something that makes me giggle so much.

I should get back to cleaning. This working full-time is taking its' toll on my house and the dust bunnies are taking over. Maybe it's time to get over my issues with hiring a cleaning lady. I might have to bite the bullet! Or, I could just figure out how to get my children to pitch in and help more. Hmm...cleaning lady it is!

Saturday is a Special Day

2010-01-23T13:22:00.000-08:00

I am taking a quick break before tackling another messy portion of my house. I worked full-time last week, and needless to say, the maid did not make it! I have started helping out at the school in the office while the regular secretary is on sick leave. I wasn't sure if I should do it when I was first asked, for many reasons, but mostly because Josh loves having me around on my days off. But, it was an opportunity to get my foot in the door and one that I couldn't pass up. So, I now work 3 days at the Village office and 2 days at the school. I must say that I was exhausted by last night. With Jason not being home in the evenings, it doesn't seem like my day slows down at all once I get home. I suppose I will find a groove and figure out how to keep my house in better shape then it ended up in this week. I am hoping that Social Services doesn't drop by for a home visit anytime today!

Jason took the kids into Lethbridge to buy and sharpen skates for school next week. I really should get back to cleaning, but I wanted to share what Josh told me this week. Apparently, he has been thinking of starting a band! He has picked out some friends to be in said band, and has decided on what instruments they will all play. He told me that he was "thinkin'" about a name, and finally came up with one. He has decided on "What-To-Do" as his band name. Yesterday he told me that he was also thinking that "Watcha Doin' " would be a good name too! I love that boy.

On the Ninth Day of Christmas...

2009-12-21T08:36:00.000-08:00

I am a list maker. I love lists. I love to write them in my best handwriting on cute paper that I like to buy in abundance. I probably use more time writing my lists than I do accomplishing the items on my lists, but that is beside the point. It helps me clear my mind and focus. Jason makes fun of my lists, and he especially likes to mock the titles that I choose. No good list goes without a good title, underlined twice. I think that he could use a good list now and again.

The following is my "Things to get done before Christmas" list.

1. Deliver our neighbor "homemade hot cocoa" gifts.
2. Deliver cheese balls and crackers to co-workers
3. Take the family to the live Nativity in Lethbridge
4. Plan Christmas 'Eve food, Christmas morning, and Christmas Day dinner (may require another list)
5. Address and send Christmas Cards so that they arrive in 2009
6. Finish buying and wrapping presents
7. Listen to Christmas music at every possible moment
8. Do laundry!!!
9. Clean the house, and then clean it again, and again, and again
10.Take the children sledding
11. Bake Gingerbread men and decorate with the children
12. Try to get up on the roof to plug in the extension cord to the Christmas lights that fell out ...or convince Jason that this isn't as dangerous as it sounds, and see if he will do it
13. Pick up the homemade chocolates we ordered
14. Drink many cans of Diet Coke while trying to stay awake
15. Pick up my "happy pills" at the pharmacy to ensure that the whole family gets to enjoy a Merry Christmas

Well, that is the first of many lists that I will be writing this week. I love this time of year. Some years I feel like doing more than others, but I have learned not to be hard on myself and to only do what I can do. I love that all of my children are together this Christmas and that Scott has arrived safely home from College. I love that he woke Katie up from her nap yesterday to teach her Chinese...and that she didn't kill him. I love that Josh insists on "Family Game Night" and then has a meltdown everytime it doesn't go his way. And I love knowing that my children love this season as much as I do.

Merry Christmas to all!

November Recap

2009-11-23T19:09:00.000-08:00

I absolutely cannot believe that it is almost December! I'm glad that we decided to decorate early this year because it seems that the Christmas Season is over before we realize it. We decorated the trees (one up and one down) two weeks ago and ended the evening watching "Elf". We all love that movie! I have been listening to Josh Groban's Christmas CD, which I love, and I picked up Hilary Weeks CD on the weekend. I noticed my co-worker giving me a sideways glance when he noticed that I was playing Christmas music at my desk today. Scrooge!

We had our Young Women in Excellence last night and I thought it was great. I really love my young women and I love seeing the good things that they are doing in their lives. I'm excited for next years theme. It's from Joshua 1:9- “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest”. I want all of the girls to memorize this amazing scripture. I need to be reminded to be strong and of good courage!

We just got all of our family pictures back and I love, love, love them. We haven't ever had family pictures taken before, which I think is appalling. I have lots of photos of the kids together, but none with Jason and I. So, I'm glad I pushed through my fear of seeing myself in photo-form and had Shanna Bikman take our pictures. I love to sit in the chair in my living room and look at the beautiful family I have been blessed with. I am a lucky gal!
I really should be cleaning my house so that I can leave this week with a clean conscience. My friend Charlene and I are heading to Great Falls on Thursday for "Black Friday". I haven't attended this day of shopping madness before, so I am hoping that we make it through unscathed. Hopefully Charlene won't trample anyone and we won't get arrested. Wish me luck!

Say What?

2009-09-10T10:48:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in forever, and I really do have so much to write about. This summer has been busy and full of adventure. However, I will save those tales for another time. Today I must blog about Joshua's hair and the silly comments that it encourages.

We are used to the "Oh my gosh, it is so curly!"...but it is what often comes after that that causes me to pause. "Is that natural?" Okay...he is 4 years old. Who perms their 4 year old's hair? If there are people out there doing that, they need to stop!! And then, when I respond that yes, it is natural, they ask "Even the colour?" Again...who is bleaching their 4 year old boy's hair?????

I used to think that only older ladies asked me this, but it has come out of the mouths of old and young.

Yesterday I was at the school for Josh's pre-school orientation when Gracie's teacher approached and "oooed" and "awwed" over his hair. Then...came a question I hadn't heard before.

"Is it real?"

I must stop here.

Yuv At First Sight

2009-07-26T22:37:00.001-07:00

My conversation with Joshua while tucking him into bed tonight:

Josh: Mommy, can you sing me a "yuyyaby"?
Me: Joshy, I would love to sing you a "yuyyaby".
Josh: Why did you say it "yike" that?
Me: I said it just like you did.
Josh: No you didn't! You said "YUYYABY", not "YUYYABY".
Me: Oh, so you want me to sing you a LULLABY?
Josh: YES!

Josh: Mommy?
Me: What Josh?
Josh: I "Yuv" You.
Me: I "Yuv" you too, Josh.

Does it get any better than this? I don't think so.

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

This year I shared Mother's Day with Gracie...she celebrated her 10th birthday yesterday. We were in Helena, Montana because Jason was doing some business there, so we were able to spend the whole weekend together. (except for Scott who was in Florida for his friend Kelsey's prom) This picture is as we were leaving the hotel. It shows the top of Josh's head beautifully! It was a fantastic weekend and a wonderful Mother's Day. I am so grateful for my children and the people that they are becoming. As we drove home I thought about the mothers that I have in my life. My own mother who I miss terribly and who I love with all my heart. And, my mother in law who has blessed my family, has loved my children and filled a void in my life that I didn't think could ever be filled after my mom died. I am thankful for the women who show me how to be a better mother and who help me find joy in the journey. I am blessed!!

An "Office" Romance

2009-04-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

I love the TV show "The Office". When I can't sleep at night, I pop in a disc and watch until my eyes won't stay open, and then I listen until I drift off to sleep. I remember the first time I stumbled across the "George Foreman Grill" episode and watched and laughed at these crazy people. I have watched it every week since. I have said that I don't know how to relate to people that don't "get" the show. I am dumbfounded by those who cannot giggle at the thought of Jan dancing to Hunter's music or Andy running for Rabies. (I just giggled at the thought of it)
Anyhow, what made me think of my love of "The Office" was a conversation I overheard between Josh (my 4 year old) and the 3 neighborhood children (aged 1, 4 and 5)

Josh: Michael tackled Jim.
4 Year old: what?
Josh: When Jim and Pam were getting married, Michael was so happy.
5 Year old: Huh?
Josh: (waving his arms and laughing) Michael ran and tackled Jim.
1 Year old: (stares blankly)

I was so amused at the lack of interest that his friends had in Josh's story. He didn't take it personally. Perhaps he understands those who don't like "The Office" better than I do!!

Decisions, Decisions!

2009-03-31T10:50:00.000-07:00

Last year when Scott was trying to decide where to go to University, he created a spread sheet to weigh his different options and to show pros and cons. He narrowed his choices down to 3 universities, and after much work and essay writing, he applied to those three. He had thought that one of them was a little out of his league, and so he really figured he would have to choose between two.
Well, he heard back from the three universities and was accepted to all of them! Now he just has to decide where he is going to go!
The two universities that he has narrowed it down to are the College of William and Mary and the University of Virginia. Both of them are exceptional and each will offer him so many life experiences. We are proud of the way that he has tackled this step in his life and pray that he can make this next tough decision.
Personally, I am leaning towards the College of William and Mary, just because it is 5 miles from an awesome amusement park! :) Actually, I am confident that he will make the choice that will be best for his future and when it comes down to it, I doubt he will be disappointed no matter what decision he makes.
We'll keep you posted!

Happy Birthday Joshua Glen!

2009-03-25T13:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Josh's 4th birthday. I cannot believe that my littlest is not a baby anymore. His birthday was a very busy day for all of us, but we managed to get in opening presents, going on a little shopping trip to Lethbridge, cake and ice-cream with family, and he was able to spend time with Grandma B while I went to Young Women's. (He sobbed this morning when he realized Grandma had gone home...how dare she?)

As I was driving to Lethbridge with him yesterday, I was watching him through the rear-view mirror and marveling that this wonderful little creature belongs to me. I often have this sensation when I look at my children. They are truly the greatest blessings and they push me to do better everyday.

I also thought about the journey we took to have Josh. 4 Miscarriages, 5 years of waiting, 280 injections of Fragmin, and 14 hours of labour. I knew that this boy would change our whole family, and he has.

So, this birthday was one of thankfulness for me. I am so thankful that I have 4 healthy children who love Jason and I and who love being a part of our family. They make me look at life differently and challenge me, and make my life whole.

At the end of the day, this picture of Josh about sums up how we all felt.

When did this happen??

2009-02-25T10:51:00.000-08:00

I have decided to jump back on the bandwagon and try to lose some weight this year. I feel this way every spring, but I am choosing to start a little earlier, and I am feeling optimistic. I enjoy going on the treadmill and it seems like everyone in the household is wanting to eat a little better, so that is helpful. I can't tell Gracie that I'm trying to lose weight though, or she starts crying and tells me that she loves me just the way I am...whatever! What's all this "unconditional love" bologna!! Anyhow, I decided to keep a journal of my "journey" and I measured myself so that I could have my starting size. BIG mistake!! WHEN DID I BECOME SPONGE-BOB SQUARE PANTS! I used to have a small difference between my bust, waist and hip size. No longer! So scary!

So, here I go, trying to make my rectangular body into something that resembles a pear. Wish me luck!

WOW!

2009-02-08T12:08:00.000-08:00

As I read the church bulletin today, I was astonished to read who was assigned to clean the church on March 7th. Wow! I bet it will be REALLY clean that week...and I didn't know what a great husband Sister Johnson had.

I hope I'm not being sacrilegious...it really did brighten up my Sacrament Meeting.

D-E-C-E-M-B-E-R

2008-12-19T12:20:00.000-08:00

The look on Josh's face about sums up how he felt about his Christmas Concert.

Josh and Gracie at home.

Josh just before his first Preschool Christmas Concert

Jason and I on my 40th birthday.

I love December. It breaks the bank, that's for sure...but it is such a great time filled with family and friends and my favorite color...RED! I love that our community still puts the "Christ" in "Christmas" and that the kids concerts were filled with wonderful carols and the Nativity. I love that there is snow on the ground and that I have a warm house to go home to. I love that I have friends and family to bake for and make things for. I love that my kids love Christmas and that they shake the presents and make very educated guesses as to what is inside the wrapping. I love that my husband is as excited for Christmas morning as the kids are.

I love that we have lots of plans for the holidays but I am hoping to just hanging out enjoying time with my funny little family watching movies and eating popcorn.

What a wonderful time of year!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2008-12-08T08:36:00.000-08:00

Jason has been so busy at work the past week or so, and hasn't been home much. So, last night we all sat down and watched "Elf" ( which I purchased at HMV for $5!!) I love laughing with my family and enjoying time together. I am trying to stay focused on the "Reason for the Season" this year, and take time to enjoy myself. I have so much to be grateful for. This post will have to be short since I am at work. Good bye for now!

Happy Birthday Mark!

2008-11-26T08:03:00.000-08:00

I am at work again and I found a couple pictures of Cameron and Tanya's babies. The one above is of Ron holding his grandson, Connor. (I think. I might be Forrest. I will have to check with Ron) The picture below is of Kya. She is the only girl of the triplets and is adorable and sweet.

I will post more pictures when our computer at home gets fixed. Ron just visited with Cameron again last weekend and had a wonderful time with them. It does my heart good to see him reconnecting with his son and his family. Cameron has expressed to Ron how much he loved spending time in Mom and Dad's home in Calgary and how he thinks of that time often. I really didn't know if there would ever be a time when we could be together again and so this feels like an amazing blessing for all of us, but especially for Ron.

Recap

2008-11-21T14:06:00.000-08:00

I am at work today. It is beautiful out and my kids are all at home, and I am stuck at work. The only advantage I see is that I can post something to my blog without it taking 45 minutes to upload pictures. We have finally figured out that our computer’s upload speed is almost non-existent, and will hopefully be replacing the whole darned thing shortly. Anyhow...I wanted to recap some of the events of late. Scott has been busily taking SAT and ACT tests and preparing his college applications that are due at the end of December. He is applying to University of Virginia, College of William and Mary, and George Mason University. The reason for these choices is that we wanted him to be somewhat close to either Byron or us. We tried to convince him that Red Crow College would be a good choice, but he wasn’t swayed! So, we will see where he gets into and what the future holds. I am looking forward to getting him settled and taking a trip back east, however, the thought of him leaving puts a lump in my throat. He is such a bright light in our home. I am constantly amazed by his maturity and level-headedness (something I admire in others, and lack myself). I am trying not to think about it yet, and just enjoy the fact that my child is so prepared to tackle the world. (I am NOT taking credit for that. He was born prepared!)

Here's a blurry shot of the clock when Scott and I left for Calgary last month. It was 4:21am and we had to be in Calgary by 7:30am. The funniest thing about this trip was that we set the GPS for the address of the high school his SAT was being written at and it kept telling us to take these obscure streets. I commented that it was almost as though it was trying to avoid major roads. I was a little tired and didn't really think much of it until it literally zig-zagged us through a residential area near the high school and totally avoided Crowchild Trail. While Scott was in the test I had 5 or so hours to kill, so I took a look at the GPS and noticed that someone had set it to "Bicycle" mode! I giggled for quite sometime thinking that it all made sense...especially the "ETA" of 10am! It worked much better on "Car" mode on the way home!

OK- I can't figure out how to get pictures throughout my blog without having to drag them and reformat the whole she-bang. Anhoo- the two pictures on the top are of Scott sharpening his pencils at 4:30am in preperation for his test, and of me after getting ready in the back seat of the van while waiting paitently for Scott to finish his test.

What a Weekend!

2008-10-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

Well, it's Tuesday and I survived the Long Weekend! Yesterday was Thanksgiving and it was wonderful. Let me back up a little. Ron arrived on Thursday night to stay over. Then, I worked Friday and madly cleaned the house when I got home. Saturday, Jan, John, Jacquie and her son Garrett arrived for the day. We decided to give Jacquie our old Venture van because she has been without transportation for a little while, and with winter coming, she needed something. So, I had to clean out the van, etc. so that they could take it with them. We visited and hung out which was really nice, but it put me behind the eight-ball so-to-speak. I did all of the Thanksgiving Day prep on Saturday. Jason kept telling me to go to bed and do some in the morning, but I just felt that I should have everything ready the night before. We had originally decided to have dinner on Sunday at our place and invite Dad, Mary, Linda and family, and Ron. However, on Thursday night Dad called to see if it would be alright to invite Cameron (Ron's son) and his family. It was very exciting to have them come as Ron hadn't seen Cam in 18 years. I was thrilled to see them, but it was a little added pressure. Anyhow, luckily I got everything done the night before and had the house ready for dinner, because as soon as we drove in the drive-way Sunday after Stake Conference, Cam and the gang showed up. He has a beautiful wife and 5 kids...3 of which are triplets. Oh, and they are 11 months old and crawling!! Needless to say, the house was bustling and filled with little voices. The babies are absolutely adorable and we enjoyed every second they were here. It was emotional to see Ron reunited with Cam and getting to know his grandkids. I know that he has waited for this moment for a very long time. Just last month I fasted for Ron and one of the things I was praying for was that he would have a connection with his children again. I cannot imagine being estranged from my kids and not knowing them in their everyday lives. It was just a very busy, but a very special day for all of us.

Monday we did it all again with Jason's family. We ate way too much turkey and stuffing and pie, but we had a wonderful time. We marveled that we love spending time together as much as we do. I have been blessed with such wonderful families on both sides, and love how it feels to spend time with them.

PS. I have tons of pictures that I will post as soon as my &$%#@ computer lets me download them. Santa, are you listening??? I need a new computer!!

Carol Jean Hansen Wood- June 19, 1942- October 3, 1992

2008-10-03T15:42:00.000-07:00

Today is 16 years to the day that my mother passed away. I cannot believe that 16 years have gone by since I've spoken to her. 16 Christmases, 16 birthdays, 16 springtimes. I think about her every single day. I wondered if I would. I had never lost a loved one before my mom died, and so I didn't know what would happen as the years passed. It feels like my life changed that day, and the sadness never goes away. I miss her so much. I was only 23 years old, and I was just learning how to be a mother myself. There are so many questions I wish that I could have asked her. So many things I didn't know at 23. I feel like a totally different person since the last time I saw her. I feel her near me at times. I feel her love every day of my life and I pray that she knows the incredible influence that she had on my life. I try to tell my children what she was like. That she was a woman of faith. That she raised her family in the gospel and that she knew that families were forever. I marvel that she went through the experiences that she did and stayed positive and loving and absolutely devoted to her family. She was forgiving and funny and she made me feel more loved than anybody ever has. I remember thinking that there was no way that she would die because I knew that I couldn't live without her. And then when she did die, I knew that I needed to live a life that she would be proud of. And I think that is what I have tried to do. Every major decision I make, I wonder if it would be something that she would approve of.

I have often thought what it would be like to spend one afternoon with her. What would I tell her about the past 16 years? These are a few of the things that I think she would enjoy.
1. That I am not a slob anymore. That I know how to clean my house and that I take pride in keeping it that way. I think she would be a little surprised by this. I know that she threw her hands in the air many times when it came to my cleaning habits.
2. That I love the Gospel of Jesus Christ and that I am raising my family to hopefully love it as well. That I love going to church and to the temple and that nothing makes me happier than reading scriptures with my family.
3. That my dad and I have a wonderful relationship. I didn't always know how to communicate with my dad while my mom was here. She kind of coaxed us both and helped us understand each other, and I know that since she's been gone I have grown to love him so very much and I don't know what I would do without him.
4. That I married an incredible man who loves me and our children so very much and who wants us to be together forever as much as I do.
5. That I can cook a great Thanksgiving dinner.
6. That I can sew hallow e'en costumes for my kids and that I love quilting. She tried to encourage my domestic side while she was here, but I wasn't a very willing participant. I think she would really chuckle that I have found that side of myself.

I know she knows these things. I know she is aware of my life because of how she raised me. I know that I will see her again and that she will know my husband and my children. I feel that it is the greatest compliment when I am told that I do things like she did and I pray that I can love my family half as well as she did.

Open Up!

2008-09-30T16:22:00.000-07:00

I foolishly scheduled all four of my children at the dentist today to save driving into Lethbridge more than once. Well...I would have gladly paid the little extra for gas had I known that I was going to be there for THREE hours. Three hours to clean their teeth! I was referred to this dentist by my sis-in-law Karen, and he was wonderful, however, trying to keep Josh occupied by the lame dentist lego set was a bit of a challenge. I always find dentists stressful and I am trying hard not to pass on my phobia of the drills and the mouth full of flouride to my children. So far they seem to enjoy the whole process, which is good. Three of the four have been referred to the orthodontist. Great! And Scott has some pretty nasty wisdom teeth that need to be extracted. The good news is that we have double insurance, so in the end, it should all be covered. They did require that I pay for today's visit up front...which made me choke just a little. $1200.00 for 3 hours of work ain't bad! So that was my afternoon. Nothing too exciting, but necessary none the less.

Food for Thought

2008-09-25T21:16:00.000-07:00

OH MY! What a night! We had a "Young Women's Leader Night Out" tonight at the Movie Mill. We decided to go see the new Emma Smith movie before it left town. I knew that it wasn't going to be a comedy, but my goodness, I wasn't expecting the absolute sadness I felt as I watched it. It was such an incredible story about such an amazing, faithful woman. It was awesome to see the story through her eyes and feel the sadness and despair and hope that she experienced in her lifetime. I found it very hard to watch, but so inspiring. It gave me such perspective on my own life and the trials that I face. It made me want to endure to the end and it reiterated what I have always believed...that I belong to the only true church upon this earth. It was great to see the theatre filled with others who I assume feel the same way that I do. It was so hard to see her bury her little babies, one after the other. I thought about how my faith was tested during my miscarriages and how I wondered how much I would have to endure. It certainly made me think about what I am asked to face and if I face it well. All in all, it was a faith-promoting evening with great friends.

I Think I Love My Husband!

2008-09-17T18:31:00.001-07:00

As I was playing on the trampoline with Josh this afternoon, I laid in the warm sun and looked over at the beautiful fence that my dear husband put up for us this month. He weathered wind and rain and mud and fatigue to construct a 400 foot fence so that we can let our busy little three year old run until he collapses. It means the world to me that he would put that effort into something that means so much to me. I know that many days he went to work absolutely exhausted because of the time that it took to work on our yard. I also know that Jason doesn't feel appreciated some of the time, and I just want him to know that he is so loved.

My Favorite Season

2008-09-14T14:36:00.001-07:00

I LOVE AUTUMN! I am so in love with this time of year. The coolness in the air, the ability to wear sweaters again, not sweating profusely all day long, and the look of my yard when the leaves begin to fall. I don't even mind raking, and we have A LOT of trees to clean up around. It just gives me a chance to be outside in the most beautiful season there is. My house is even decorated in Autumn colours. Red, Green, deep yellow...I can't get enough of it. I am drawn to this palette whenever I go shopping for home accessories. My heart skipped a beat yesterday when I found the cutest napkins with green leaves and red berries that go perfectly with my new dinner plates. I understand that this isn't earth shattering stuff and that I probably should be focused more on the weightier things of life, but I must admit that my love of Autumn and all that it brings makes my world a little brighter.

All You Need Is Love

2008-08-28T16:59:00.000-07:00

I really have nothing to say in today's blog, except that I LOVE my family. I am so blessed to have a wonderful husband and four incredible children. I am often overwhelmed with the responsibilities that come with this family, but I am also blessed to feel GRATEFUL on a daily basis for what I have been given. My children are smart, funny, caring, and forgiving of my many flaws. My husband is SOOO funny, loving, an incredible father, non-judgmental and a wonderful friend. My boss commented to me recently that I always seem happy. That isn't an entirely correct representation of my life, but I have to say that I am happy. I have been unhappy before. I know how it feels to go for long periods of time without laughing. But, as I go through my busy life, I remember that time of sadness, and it makes all of my problems seem a little smaller. So yes, I AM HAPPY! Shoot me!

SHUTUPSTUPIDOHMYHELL!

2008-08-27T19:45:00.000-07:00

This little boy of mine has a temper! I don't know where he would have inherited that from, but he has a tendency to get very angry whenever I have the nerve to say "No". I try not to say it very often, but sometimes there are safety issues involved, and I just must utter the two-letter word that he loathes. When I do, he scans his memory for the three words/phrases that he has been forbidden to use in our home..."Shut-up", "Stupid", and "Oh my hell". (the latter may be thanks to me...I'm not quite sure). He then proceeds to say all three "profanities" quickly and repeatedly. I'm pretty close to getting him checked for Tourettes Syndrome. In the meantime, he is just spending ALOT of time in his room!

Summer Recap

2008-08-21T16:33:00.000-07:00

Where has the summer gone? I cannot believe that we are sending the kids back to school in less than 2 weeks. I have to admit that I really like the structure of the school year. I am not a summer person, and so I look forward to fall with great anticipation. It also doesn't help that I work during the summer. It makes the time fly by and I hate that my kids are home alone without me. We had Bee Hive camp for Katie. Scott went to Utah, Oklahoma, and Virginia with his dad and Inger, and I had "Moroni's Quest" with the Young Women. So, it was busy, busy, busy!! I think summer would be much more fun if I was a stay-at-home-mom with an unlimited budget. Yep! Then I would LOVE summer. But, as it is, we have tried to do some fun things with the kids. We went to "Willy's Cabin" in the community pasture with the Broadhead side of the family for about 5 days. It is beautiful there and the kids look forward to it every year. I'm including some pictures that we took while we were there.

Perspective

2008-07-17T15:41:00.000-07:00

I found this wonderful quote on Luella's blog that has really hit home to me;

"Author Anna Quindlen reminds us not to rush past the fleeting moments. She said: “The biggest mistake I made [as a parent] is the one that most of us make. … I did not live in the moment enough. This is particularly clear now that the moment is gone, captured only in photographs. There is one picture of [my three children] sitting in the grass on a quilt in the shadow of the swing set on a summer day, ages six, four, and one. And I wish I could remember what we ate, and what we talked about, and how they sounded, and how they looked when they slept that night. I wish I had not been in such a hurry to get on to the next thing: dinner, bath, book, bed. I wish I had treasured the doing a little more and the getting it done a little less” (Loud and Clear [2004], 10–11)" --Quoted by Elder M. Russell Ballard

How perfect is that?? I sometimes do feel like I am "living in the moment", but most times I am not. These past few months have been a challenge. I have had to deal with some things that have taken my thoughts elsewhere, and I think that my children have been somewhat neglected. This quote has made me think about "living in the moment" and trying to eliminate somethings that I don't really need to do or spend time on. I really don't want to look back and feel that I missed anything or that I have regrets. My husband and children are such a huge blessing to me, and I need to have that reflected in what I spend my life doing.

The First of Many

2008-06-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

I have decided to try to document some bits of my busy life in an attempt to slow down and smell the roses. Maybe as I write about my life and my comings and goings I will be able to see how to fit everything in and perhaps, what I need to leave out. So that is the purpose of this endeavor...I want to step back and see how wonderful my life really is.