Atkinson Attitude

P. S. to the Rilie-ism

2012-02-10T07:45:00.002-07:00

The science fair was yesterday. Jane and I were asked to judge one of the classes. No, not James' and Rilie's, all was on the up and up. The teachers each chose eight finalists from their class and then we had to score those projects. Fifth Graders (or their parents) are pretty creative. We had a great time and then we were done. No more science fair this year. Or so I thought. A few hours later, in the door walks my own creative fifth grader. She took first place for her class and James took third. If we don't think of some way to sabotage her project she will be heading to BYU. Oh, the horror! Great Job Rilie and James!

Two Tales From Tyler and a Rilie-ism

2012-02-06T08:02:00.006-07:00

I was approached by a neighbor (who I don't know very well) and he said he had a story to tell me. I cringed. He said the story was about Tyler. I let out a deep sigh. He said the story was so good that he had already told it to a bunch of family and friends. Oh Boy!
Nate has a son Kade who is in Ty's primary class. Nate was a substitute teacher for the class and overheard Tyler and Kade teasing each other. That week seven girls and only three boys were there. So the five-year-old insults were along the lines of - How many girls are there in class today (then pointing at each other,) one, two, etc.
Okay, I thought, this isn't too bad.
Then Nate said Ty turned to him and said, "Hey Kade's Dad, why are you wearing a pink tie?"
Nate replied, "Because I like pink."
Ty repeated the question, "Hey Kade's Dad, why are you wearing a pink tie?"
Again, "Because I like pink."
Tyler made sure everyone was listening and said, "Hey Kade's Dad, where's your prom dress?"
He he he. That's my boy. It could have been so much worse.

Tyler Tale number two.
(This is not a recent picture. Just the first documented case of Tyler's slovenly ways.)

I, being the good mom that I am, made Ty his favorite lunch of grilled cheese sandwiches and orange juice. We had the individual bottles of Tropicana. What a treat! Tyler ate his lunch quickly and finished by guzzling down his orange juice. When he finished there was a huge dark purple mark (like a milk mustache, but almost black) above his upper lip. Ty is no stranger to walking around most of the day with food all over his face. So I asked him if he had a cupcake or other treat at school. He hadn't. I took a closer look. In his hurry to finish his orange juice he had sucked the bottle so hard he gave himself a hickie. A bruise above his lip. Oh well, I thought, it's Tyler, probably no one will notice. Wrong! Rilie walked in the door from school a little later, took one look at Ty and said, "He looks like he has a 'Hitler Mustache' what happened to him?"
Nice. My five year old walked around for a week looking like one of the most hated men in history.

And a Rilie-ism.

Rilie and I came up with an easy idea for her science fair project, did the bare minimum and whammo - free time on Super Bowl weekend. Yesterday, Jane, who's son James is in Rilie's class was telling Ri that they would have to go home after the game and get to work. Rilie asked Jane what James' project was on. Jane replied that it was nothing complicated enough to win anything. Rilie's comment to that was, "Oh, that's okay. If you win you have to go down to BYU for the next round." Way to go Ri! Although maybe it would have been better received by a Utah fan instead of a die-hard BYU allum.

2012-02-02T15:05:00.004-07:00

Our family was lucky to be able to spend so much time doing so many fun things together in December.

We got to see Jenna in an "in studio" dance performance. She outshines me in so many ways. Her talent as a dancer is just one.

Rilie did a book talk - a super involved book report - where she dressed up as Ms. Wellington from School of Fear (one of her favorite books.) She was mortified at the thought of being seen in her costume by anyone other than classmates, so I obligingly drove her to school. I talked her into letting me put on the finishing touches in the hallway before we reached her class. All was well until a class of sixth graders happened by. For Rilie it was like living a nightmare. I, being the adult, having ALL of my embarrassing moments behind me (ha ha) thought it was hysterical.

(You can tell by her face in the picture that she is thrilled I am documenting the occasion.)

We also went to Temple Square to see the lights with my parents and Becky's family. We went on Gavin's birthday, so after his party ie... stuffing myself with cake and ice cream, we went to the Lion House for dinner. How do I always end up forgetting the camera when we do something that would have resulted in pictures as fantastic as the memories we made?!?

Last but certainly not least was Christmas Day. I must confess that Christmas Eve with family, games, food, endless soda, and all of the anticipation is actually my favorite.

2012?!?

2012-01-24T12:25:00.004-07:00

Some things that happened to our family in 2011 are:

*We went on a super fun trip to Yosemite-San Jose-San Francisco.
*Jenna got baptized.
*Dave is in a new position with Cintas - and it has been a huge blessing to our family.
*I hit my year mark at work and still love it!
*Our family lost two fabulous matriarchs (and we miss them every day.)
*My sidekick traded in his time card for a back pack and started kindergarten.
*The kids started at a new school and are on a traditional schedule - the jury is still out whether we like it or not - three months off this summer will tell.
*Rilie had a soccer tournament in St. George and did great.
*We got to go to Disneyland for Christmas. It was fantastic.
*We got to see Karl & Kim more this year than ever (lucky them!)

2011 had it's ups and downs. We hope that 2012 will be filled with good times, family, friends, and happiness.

-CaTcH Up-

2011-12-09T16:47:00.011-07:00

It has been a flurry of activity around this mad house!

Ty lost his first tooth. He cried when the dentist (my boss) pulled it out. NOT because it hurt, no, because, "I chew with that tooth."

Rilie had a soccer tournament in St. George. She and her team did so great! (Doesn't she look fantastic in her goalie stuff?!?!)

Dave had his second experience with kidney stones. SO much fun for everyone! Sorry no pictures of that one.

Two days after Dave's emergency surgery and five days after we got home from St. George off to Disneyland we went.

The absolute biggest Christmas Tree I have ever seen!

Even Disneyland is more fun at Christmas time. (No one ever showed Dave how to make a face.)

After all of the running around we have been doing the last little bit - we hope to do more of this -

Merry Christmas to all - and to all a GOOD NIGHT!

BiRthDaY FuN

2011-11-06T16:56:00.004-07:00

Some Pics from my favorite Eleven-(yes 11)Year-Old's Birthday

RIster is my voice of reason and typically the peacemaker in our home. She is truly a delight to be around. She shares my love of reading. She loves animals of all sorts (even little brothers.) I love this girl with all my heart!

HapPy HaLLoWeeN!

2011-11-06T16:53:00.002-07:00

SuRpRisE BrEaKfAsT Pj PaRty

2011-10-20T11:03:00.005-06:00

Rilie couldn't decide if she wanted a soccer friend party, a neighborhood friend party, or to have Audrey come over and party. Mean mom that I am, I told her she took too long to decide and that she couldn't have a party at all. Meanwhile, I called a few of her friends' moms and asked them to bring their daughters to meet us at Kneaders this morning for a Pajama Party.

Rilie was so surprised! She wasn't even too mad that I made her wear her pj's in public. Thanks everyone for making this so fun and special!

CreAtiVe KiD

2011-10-20T10:56:00.002-06:00

At our last Activity Days (lucky me I get to be with Rilie) we gave the girls a pumpkin, set out markers, ribbon, string, yarn, buttons, stickers, google eyes, etc... and set the girls loose.

Now, I may be a bit prejudice, but Rilie's was the absolute cutest!

...

2011-10-12T07:40:00.003-06:00

I do love a man in uniform -

(even when he barely tolerates me taking his picture.)

Dave got a new position at work a few months ago and he officially starts TODAY!
His new job has longer hours, is five days a week instead of four and he is back to salary. Wait... Why am I so excited!?!?

YaY DaVe!

2011-10-11T08:05:00.001-06:00

Hooray for today! Pictures (and explanation) later.

LoSt

2011-10-04T12:23:00.005-06:00

I have been a blog slacker. But, this time it was for a good reason. I am still not able to look at my post from June (it breaks my heart every time I think of Nana,) and on September 18th my Grandma passed away. Her husband passed away in November and I think she couldn't stand to live without him. We will miss her so much. I would have put more pictures on but my tears are blurring my vision. Love you Grandma!

FrOm SidEKiCk To KinDerGarTNer

2011-09-07T13:12:00.011-06:00

I am so lucky to have a boss that understands how important family is, and doesn't mind that I bring Ty to work with me. Ty considers himself gainfully employed. It only made sense to have a retirement party for him yesterday. He decided that we needed Wendy's for lunch and pictures of the last day of working as a sidekick.

Me, "Ty I am going to be so sad to come to work alone."
Ty, "Mom, you won't be alone, Al is here."
Me, "True, but she's not as cute as you."

Me, "Ty what if I cry tomorrow when I see you get off the bus and walk to class."
Ty, "Mom you won't cry. That would be sooooo embarrassing!"

How could I cry when this is the level of excitement that greeted me?!?

Two handsome cousins waiting in line to go in to class. (Lucky teacher.)

After the bell rang a few of us parents went into the school to sneak a peek. The kids that saw their parents were waving and blowing kisses. Not Ty. This is him making the motion and saying, "Shut the door."

Ever since Ty could talk he has called the beautiful Basinger twins "The Baby Girlfriends." I asked him if he was excited to have the baby girlfriends in his class. His reply was, "Yes but let's call them Ava and Addie. Those are their names."
I love that he has his arm on Ava's shoulder. When he found out that she broke her arm he offered to do her homework for her. What a gentleman.

Back to the bus. One mohawk height above the rest.

On the drive home Tyler said to me, "Mom I'm sorry there's school again tomorrow."
Me, "Why? I thought you liked it."
Ty, "I do, but you'll have to be alone again. Maybe you could go play with your friends."
Sounds good to me! Who's up for brunch?

BaCK to ScHooL

2011-09-01T15:45:00.003-06:00

Fifth and Third Grade!
Kindergarten pictures and assessment story next time.

WhEn YoU WiSh UpOn A StAr...

2011-08-29T18:12:00.002-06:00

Friday night Ty and I were sitting in the car waiting for Dave and the girls to pick some things up at the store. Tyler is looking out the window and he says to me, "I wish I could see a shooting star."
Me, "What would you wish for?"
Ty, "To see a shooting star every night so I could keep making wishes."
I am thinking to myself that I have one smart five year old, until...
Me, "What would your second wish be?"
Ty, "To never have to swallow my slobber."
Me, "Hunh. What would your third wish be?"
Ty, "To not have to breathe to stay alive."
Hunh.

QuiCk PiCs

2011-08-25T20:17:00.003-06:00

This is the bird house my mom and dad built for us. Why oh why couldn't they have passed on some of this talent?!?!

CraFtS WiTh ThE KiDs

2011-08-22T20:57:00.005-06:00

The monkeys and I had a craft day on Saturday. Ri made the owl to match her room, Ty made the manly lady bug (like in "Bug's Life,") and Jenna made a glittery cupcake, of course.

Tons of fun to watch the kids express themselves.

Wood Connection has the cutest ideas for fall. Here is the outcome.

Jenna and I also finally stained the bird house that my parents made me for Christmas last year. I will post a picture soon.

SoCcEr SeAsoN

2011-08-22T19:30:00.004-06:00

This is Rilie's second year playing soccer on a competition team. It is unbelievable how dedicated these ten-year-old girls are. Last season Ri got knocked around a bit (then gave it right back.)
Her coach nicknamed her "The Bull." Love it.
This year she wanted to give being goalie a try. Of course she is doing great. She is pretty aggressive and she is definitely not afraid of the ball.

She goes to Goalie Training once or twice a week with the goalie trainer for RSL, Jeff Cassar. Woo woo.

The team started the season by walking out on the field with the MLS players. Great start to what is sure to be a great season.

A TriP FrOm MaY

2011-07-17T17:57:00.024-06:00

Like most things in my life, this post is upside-down. Scroll to the bottom and work your way up. Or, enjoy our trip from end to beginning.

We had a spectacular time.

Finishing out our trip, we went to Fisherman's Wharf. So much to see and so many good things to eat. My kind of place.

One of the most interesting things I have ever done is the tour of Alcatraz. Next time you are in the Bay Area, go.

Then to a Giants game. It was Willie Mays' 80th birthday, and we were able to meet up with my favorite uncle and aunt (huge Giants fans!) We nearly froze to death and left early because the Giants were losing. Of course they came back to win it in the 9th.

Back up to Yosemite and hiking to waterfalls. I can't believe how beautiful it was.

We drove down to San Francisco and went to Golden Gate Park and the California Academy of Sciences. Very Cool.

Our trip started at the Winchester Mansion in San Jose. If you can't visit, you should definitely look it up on line. Wow!

We (through the generosity of Tiff) were able to go to California in the spring.
I finally figured out how to download pictures from Dave's camera - so here are a few..

My Nana

2011-06-22T18:06:00.010-06:00

I hope you know how much I am going to miss you!

For everything from celebrating my 6th place in the spelling bee to being my road trip companion (and everything in between) - THANK YOU!

Easter (Not even a whole month later.)

2011-05-17T07:45:00.006-06:00

We are so lucky to have Nana as the matriarch of our family. She is eighty-five this year and is house-bound a good share of her time because of ailments. Yet, she still finds ways to make the plethora of kids, grand kids, and great-grand kids happy. We all braved the cold for Nana's Annual Easter Egg Hunt, and had a great time.

Of course our camera died before we were able to take a picture of the kids with Nana.

Handsome T-Rex is 5

2011-05-14T12:56:00.005-06:00

Boy do I pity the fool who gets to be this witty, rambunctious, genius child's kindergarten teacher!

Last night as a Four-Year-Old

Ty waited until the morning of his birthday to tell me he didn't want cake and ice cream for his party. After throwing out all of the ideas I had he settled on rootbeer floats and chocolate chip cookies.

"Mom there is ice cream in my cup, I don't want ice cream, I just want a rootbeer float."

The day after his birthday most of his sentences started with, "Remember when I was little, like, four..."

Ty is my sidekick, comedic relief, and handsome prince. He keeps my ego small and my days busy. I couldn't love him more.

LaST daY As A 7 YeaR OLd - BirTHdaY FuN & MoRE

2011-04-15T17:22:00.012-06:00

I told Jenna we needed to document her last night as a seven -year- old (she begrudgingly let me take her picture:)

She went shopping with Grammy to pick out her baptism dress and this was her favorite after trying on close to twenty. We decided to go with something different than the traditional braid.

One lucky girl to be baptized on her very birthday day!

I love this precocious little girl so much! She is such a blessing to our family!

BeSt BUdDieS

2011-03-31T16:06:00.002-06:00

Every day after school Jenna asks if she can play with a friend. Every day after school I ask which friend. Nine times out of ten she says Gavin. The other day I called Becky to have her send Jen home for dinner. She told me that they always climb to Gavin's top bunk and play video games together. How can I even consider moving when my kids' only cousins live across the park. So cute!

the countdown begins

2011-03-30T07:58:00.002-06:00

Every year Grammy makes a Birthday Countdown for each of the kids.

Love that mom of mine!

Really -

2011-03-29T08:33:00.002-06:00

As a follow-up I just want to let you know that I called Dave, paged Dave, sent texts to Dave, etc.. Asking him, if he were to find himself anywhere near Becks to please snap a picture and send it to me. Well, I got no response. When Dave and Rilie came home I told him to check his phone. He did, and kind of gasped, gave me a sheepish look, and said, "I wish I would have heard my phone, we were right behind the bench and Beckham sat out the last few minutes, so I could have gotten you a close-up."

Husbands - Geez!

A Real Daddy - Daughter Date

2011-03-26T18:38:00.005-06:00

Is there a bigger Real Salt Lake fan than Dave? Maybe, consider Dave Junior. Rilie loves to play, watch, eat, drink, dress, basically live soccer. With two or three 2 hour practices a week she better LOVE it.

I, on the other hand am not a huge soccer fan. I enjoy watching my kids play, and that is the extent of my soccer fanaticism. I am only sad that I am going to miss Becks up close and personal. This will have to do.

I hope they have fun!

Impromptu Fashion Show

2011-03-09T07:33:00.014-07:00

Audrey slept over a few weeks ago. The girl is seriously deprived of girly-girl stuff, living in a house with four brothers. After doing each others' make-up they took turns coming down the stairs and modeling different dresses for me. Totally the cutest thing (or if you are talking to Rilie later, it was Awesome, not cute.)

I was talking to Audrey at the start of the school year and I asked her if there were any cute boys in her class. Her reply was, "Unfortunately, no." I know if I asked Becky the same question, the answer would be, "Fortunately, no."

SleDdiNg or FacE PLanTing?

2011-01-14T17:31:00.008-07:00

BEfoRe...

Ask Jenna - I took the kids to a park by our house to sled. So fun, Right? They were all having a blast, then we found a bump and a jump. Ri and Ty went first and survived, so down went Jen. And I mean DOWN went Jen. She landed right on her face. She was brave and kept going. Her sled was not as fortunate. It cracked in half and had to be left in the trash bin.

AfTEr...

UpDatE

2011-01-14T16:25:00.005-07:00

Recently I was accused of not updating my blog on a regular basis. The fact that I am using the word recently to refer to an e-mail sent to me a month ago gives you a reference point. It has only been four weeks since Christmas - here are a couple of pictures.

One Christmas I am going to remember to take "before" and "after" pictures. Ri, Jen and Ty are three of eight grandkids on my side and the only grandkids on Dave's side. This means three aunts and two sets of grandparents to spoil them rotten. It is definitely more of a threat to say that Grandma or Grammie won't get you presents than to say Santa is not bringing anything. It takes two trips to bring all of the goods home. Judging by sheer quantity it was a fantastic Christmas. (We also enjoyed good times with the family, which was mine and Dave's favorite part.)

Jenna's Turn -

2010-12-24T10:20:00.002-07:00

We were by the movie theater and we were discussing which movies we would like to see. Dave said he wouldn't mind seeing "Little Fockers." Of course all three kids say, "'Little Fockers,' what's that?" So I say, "Watch yourselves, that was pretty close to a bad word." Jenna's reply was, "Yeah, just take off the er at the end."

The Sweater Vest

2010-12-23T15:28:00.002-07:00

We went shopping at the mall with Aunt Tiff. While we were at Macy's she found the cutest sweater vest for Tyler. Complete with penguins wearing scarfs. Dave immediately vetoed it's purchase. I told him that Ty is four and to butt out. At that point Rilie chimed in and said, "It's okay Dad. Ty is too big for anyone to beat up."

New York, Rilie's Birthday, Halloween and Fun Fun Fun

2010-12-21T16:26:00.014-07:00

One picture post every few months - Sorry life is CRAZY!
We had so much fun in New York (Thanks Tiff.)
Rilie had her tenth birthday while we were there. She is such a blessing in our lives. There are way more than ten things I love about her.
Yes, I did take a picture of my dessert at Serendipity.
We came home to Family Fright Night at my Mom and Dad's house.
Have you ever seen three more fiercely adorable pirates?

The man of many words...

2010-12-17T07:45:00.002-07:00

... and most of them funny.

Tyler and I were having a conversation about Christmas. I asked him if he thought he had been good, he went through a whole list of things such as being nice to his sisters, making his bed, helping take out the garbage etc... and came to the conclusion that yes he had been good. After sitting thoughtfully for a minute, he turned to me and said, "But Mom, do you know what? I have to keep being good because Santa checks that list twice."

Background: I am married to the biggest UTE fan in the world and has brain washed our children to follow in his footsteps.

We have a U of U Christmas tree. Every year we get new ornaments to add to our collection and show our loyalty. This year we let the kids help decorate the tree and Ty took great pride in the finished product. About a week later we were at my parents house and Ty gives their gorgeous, full, nine foot tree the once over, turns to my dad and says, "Your tree looks pretty good, but you don't have any Utah Nutcrackers." And with a pitying sigh walked away.

April - September

2010-09-10T05:46:00.018-06:00

Handsome T-Rex's Birthday -
My four favorite things about my favorite four year old:
1-He is unbelievably smart
2-He looks just like his dad (Soooo Handsome!)
3-He will do anything to make us smile
4-He tells you exactly what he thinks

Rilie made the competition soccer team she tried out for.

The end of third grade, first grade, and Yaya's preschool.

Cousin's Camp.
(Are you kidding me, NO PICTURES! I'll have to get some from my mom.)

Back to School!

Another Dog!?!?!

Karl and Kim came to visit!

Everybody's playing soccer this season.

Preschool at Aunt Sand's.

That, my friends, was exhausting! I will try to keep up next time.

It's been HOW long...

2010-08-17T09:04:00.003-06:00

I know I know, my last post was eons ago. Although I like to ramble I know it is not nearly as interesting without visual aids. Finally I think our computer will let me download pictures again so plan on being bombarded. (I have pictures from Ty's birthday in April.)

What did you just say?

2010-05-21T12:02:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow it is a month since Ty's birthday! Where is Ty's birthday post? Maybe tomorrow. But, for now -

Me - "I am scared at one of the houses I have to deliver a newspaper to the porch."
Rilie - "Of what?"
Me - "Skunks, snakes, raccoons, serial killers..."
Rilie - "Better watch your Cap'n Crunch."
Me - "What?"
Rilie - "Cereal Killers."

Rilie - "Mom, I lost a tooth at school yesterday."
Me - "Neat, did you get a little treasure chest to bring it home in?"
Rilie - "Yes, and I put it under my pillow without telling anyone so I could see if the tooth fairy was real."
Me - "Oh, what conclusion did you come to?"

Nana - (at Jenna's birthday party) "Jenna I better not smile."
Jenna - "Why?"
Nana - "Because I don't have my teeth in."
Jenna - "It's okay Nana, I don't have any teeth either."

Rilie - "I want to be an architect when I grow up. Or a (I can't remember, but something along the lines of president, doctor, you get the picture.)"
Me - "Jenna what do you want to be?"
Jenna - "Either the person who works at the register at the store or a pet groomer."

Tyler - (In church, not necessarily shouting, but pretty stinkin' loud.) "Mom, there is Big Brad." (His preschool teacher's husband.)
Me - "Yes Ty, please be quiet."
Tyler - (Still in his ultra-loud not even appropriate for a sporting event voice,) "Mom Big Brad is BALD."

Tyler and I recently went to a third grade activity for Rilie held in the school's gym. We were sitting at a table in between other tables with other moms. The activity was coming to an end, so Rilie's teacher blew her whistle to get everyone's attention.
Ty looks up from the DS that he had been studiously playing for the last hour and shouts into the dead silent gym, "What the HELL was that all about."
Me (red faced and slouching in my chair) - "Rilie's teacher wants everyone to be QUIET!"

Seven going on Twenty-one.

2010-04-17T15:51:00.006-06:00

Where does the time go? I swear it was yesterday that I was in the hospital with a new baby that Rilie insisted we name Jenna. Now my little luv bug is SEVEN! Jenna didn't specify a theme for her birthday party except, fancy. I think we did alright.

My seven favorite things about Jenna are:

1-She is very decisive.
2-She may come off tough as nails, but inside she is a cupcake.
3-She loves to read to me and spend time with me.
4-She has the greatest toothless grin.
5-Her laughter is contagious.
6-She has definite style (she collects purses and got 4 new ones for her birthday.)
7-She is always pushing me to be a better person.

Hours (A-W-R-Z) in Time-Out

2010-03-30T06:21:00.002-06:00

Tyler had to go sit on his bed the other day. I can't remember for what, but with that kid it could have been anything. On the way to his room the conversation went like this -

"How long do I have to stay there? Will it be for hours."
"No, Ty, more like ten minutes."

Ten minutes later I went to tell him he could come play. That conversation went like this -

"A-W-R-Z. That's how you spell it."
"That's how you spell what Ty?"
"HOURS! A-W-R-Z."

What three-year-old spends his entire time out trying to spell the duration of the time out? Mine. My kid does that.

What a LUCKY mom I am!

2010-03-17T09:16:00.001-06:00

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

First Grader For A Day

2010-03-01T11:19:00.002-07:00

I just spent the last two hours helping in Jenna's class. Her teacher is a slightly eccentric woman who does not have any adult sized chairs (that I could find) in her room. After I had been there for about an hour she went slinking about the students whispering, "Break time." The kids all got up and went in the hall. She then invited me to come and watch them dance, explaining on the way that they would usually just stay in the classroom but, since the elf house magically showed up around Christmas-time that there just wasn't enough room. They all got in fourth position and did rel eves for a few minutes. Then they sat in a circle and did a little yoga. After they sneakily danced back to the classroom trying to avoid butterflies (classmates,) teacher (her name is Ms. Dalgleish, and I dare you to find a six-year-old that can pronounce it correctly,) read to us from a book about Abraham Lincoln's life. Two children were chosen to fill up buckets with water and carry them back and forth through the school until they had walked a mile so they could see how hard old Abe had it. Then we took a short field trip outside so we could see how far twenty miles was, because that was how far our 16th president walked to borrow books to read. All in all a very interesting morning.

I don't remember first grade that well, but I am pretty sure the most physical activity my teacher had was to kick Carlos Buckner in the rear-end when he stood on a chair to yell at the rest of the class. No wonder Jenna and her classmates love Teacher.

Back on line ...

2010-02-23T20:10:00.002-07:00

... but not on facebook. I feel like the computer was a mirror to my life this past week. At first just a few things didn't work, then gradually next to nothing was working. No facebook, no e-mail, no blogging, no internet. No sleep, no diet coke, no time off from work, no energy to clean. Now, thanks to some great family members that are computer savvy and have trucks for hauling large furniture my computer works and I am motivated to get my house in order so I can put away all of my recent purchases. As a side note: Rilie has strep (AGAIN); and, it is my favorite uncle's birthday. Just thought you might want to know. Happy Birthday Karl!

Stop (and Go) Signs

2010-02-09T09:50:00.002-07:00

The kids and I were out shopping the other day (I know, I know, big surprise.) In the parking lot there were tons of stop signs. Tyler pays attention more than any three-year-old boy should. After the second stop sign that I casually rolled through, (we were behind the buildings and utterly alone,) Ty piped up and told me that I just passed a stop sign not a go sign. I can't wait until the kid is 16. He will rue the day that he was a backseat driver in my car.

Pneumonia, Three Feet of Snow, Chronically Coughing Kids...

2010-01-21T08:48:00.002-07:00

All reasons I want to move! I think the snow is pretty and belongs at the TOP of mountains. I appreciate that it is clearing "the worst air quality in the nation" but, I don't want to walk in, drive in, or shovel it. If I could just make a convincing enough case to Dave. (Never going to happen.) Happy Utah January!

Slacker Mom Strikes Again!

2009-12-02T15:35:00.007-07:00

Thank heavens (and photo shop) that there aren't dates on these pictures. Rilie got her braces off, Jenna learned to tie her shoes, we went to Minnesota (were spoiled rotten,) and I put off blogging (again.)

Witches, Pumpkins, Fishes, Parties, Cupcakes ("Pup"cake,) and Snow much fun!

2009-10-27T13:32:00.014-06:00

*Jenna's Costume Party at School*

*Annual Pumpkin Patch Trip with Grammy*

*Rilie's Friend Birthday Party at the Aquarium*

*Three Hot Babes*

*Jenna Picking up Cupcake from the Groomer with Me*

*Rilie's Birthday "Pup" Cake*

*Rilie's Best Birthday Present Ever!*

*Snow in October... YUCK!!*

It really hasn't been that long since
my last post, but WOW!!!
Life happens, right.

Shabby? ... I don't think so!

2009-10-20T12:35:00.002-06:00

http://www.shabbybanddesigns.blogspot.com/

My new favorite accessory is my shabbyband headband. I find myself looking through my closet to find things to match it so I can wear it everyday. This is surprisingly easy because there are so many colors in it. I will definitely be at the West Jordan boutique, so if you want one, you better get there early!

Ty's First Fieldtrip

2009-10-08T12:51:00.011-06:00

Yaya's Preschool went to
Gardner Village today - how fun is that!?!
School is great when-
your best friends are in your class,
you get to have a pony ride and pet baby animals,
and you finish your day with a cookie the size of your head!

If college were this much fun, I'd consider going.

Why did Rilie have to cut her hair?

2009-10-02T09:03:00.006-06:00

My favorite local bow maker is taking a bow making break (aw, Ash, how can you do this to me?!?) But, luckily for me, one of my favorite friend's sisters has quite the talent of her own. (I felt like it was too presumptuous of me to call Katie a favorite friend when I have only talked with her a few times, but if she lived close I am sure she would be included in my morning Chevron run.)

Check these out...

http://www.santabarbarabows.com/

Happy Halloween!!!!

Ode to a Scholes

2009-10-01T14:35:00.006-06:00

I refuse to tell Jenna that Bethia is moving away.

Good luck with that Amber, I've cried enough today.

We wish your family luck, and know this move is for the best.

With you as our neighbors our lives have been blessed.

One more month is not enough time to spend with our friends,

Selfishly, we will hope that the job offer ends.

Our loss is definitely South Africa's gain!!!

...and another one gone...

2009-09-02T09:55:00.005-06:00

Today is Ty's first day of preschool. He was up, dressed and had his backpack on by 7:30. School didn't start for another two hours, but that meant nothing to him. His questions were (no not, "Mom can you stay with me?" like I had hoped) "When are you going to put my lunch in my back pack?" and "Do I get to take the bus?" He is so excited. Hopefully that lasts for the next twenty years or so (he will make a great doctor!)

Ty, his best bud Bradley and Brad's older brother Luke. Walking, instead of taking the bus, since preschool is right down the street.

You can't tell he's excited, can you?!?

What do you mean first and third grade?!?!

2009-08-17T09:44:00.004-06:00

First Day of School - I am going to miss those adorable mugs all day - What will Ty and I do to keep ourselves busy?

30 THIRTY 30 !@()$#@)*(^$ 30!

2009-08-11T14:34:00.002-06:00

I am going to spare you the pictures of my wrinkles and grey hair. Besides the number, this has been a great birthday. My sister-in-law, Tiff, made me the cutest fish cake (and insisted on putting 30 candles in it.) My mom, Becky, Nana and Karen had a birthday lunch for me. My mom and I went to the Wood Connection and bought enough projects to keep us busy for a lifetime. Two of my greatest friends and their families had our family over for dinner and shenanigans. Dave's family took us to California Pizza Kitchen. Then to top it off some of my best neighborhood friends took me out for a GNO at Ruby Tuesdays. I have eaten better in the past week than ever in my life! I have had a blast, and found a quote to describe "Birthday Week."

Laughing is good exercise, it is like jogging on the inside!

(Since I am anti-exercise right now it is a good thing I am surrounded by people that will do just about anything for a laugh.)

We Love Nana

2009-07-30T14:10:00.004-06:00

Nana is my mom's mom. She is 84. She is a pip. She belongs to a choir that sings to the "old people" at the senior center. She has a group of friends that call themselves The Old Broads and go on road trips together. She spoils me and my kids rotten. She has beaten breast cancer. She has been a widow for 34 years. She is definitely one of my heroes. It isn't her birthday or anything, I have just been thinking about her, and wishing more people could know her.

Ri and Jen giving Nana a big kiss!

Some of Nana's grand kids and great-grand kids (no spouses.) We are missing quite a few, but still an impressive brood.

CoUsiNs CaMp

2009-07-28T16:48:00.015-06:00

My mom decided to split cousins camp up this year, and do half now and half in October. For this half (to my childrens' demise) I was the designated helper since Becky was home with baby Charlie.

Charlie was invited, but at less than a week old, he probably wouldn't have enjoyed himself too much.

The first day we loaded up the seven monkeys and went to the zoo (so appropriate!)

Despite the 102 degree heat we wandered around for three and a half hours. I swear our ice cream was not the only thing melting.

The next day we went to Copperton Park.

It was Tabasco-sauce hot outside again so we all had a huge Slurpee and hid in the shade after a while. A stray dog (that we nicknamed Ug, for his good looks) came over and tried to get us to share.

Then the kids went back to my parents' house for dinner, a water fight, t-shirt tye-dying, a nighttime treasure hunt and sleepover (great news for my kids, Grampy was home from work, and took my place as Grammy's helper.) Leave it to my mom, she bought them all headlamps so they could find their treasure hunt clues in the dark.

Since two super-fun days are never enough, the next morning we all went to Raging Waters. The kids' only complaint was that there was not enough time to go on each slide ten times.

I can't wait to see how Grammy tops this one. The kids had a blast. Thanks Mom!

Going Private...

2009-07-08T09:18:00.002-06:00

Hey everybody, I am going to make our blog private. Please put your name and e-mail in the comments so I can add you to the list.

More Favorite Pictures

2009-06-11T10:43:00.009-06:00

I would love for Jane to follow my kids around all of the time and take their pictures. They had so much fun, it was almost easy (right Jane?!?)

No pictures today...

2009-06-01T11:47:00.002-06:00

I am so excited! Dance, with two trips to West Valley a week, and soccer, with two practices and two games a week, are both over for the summer! We are celebrating today by not getting out of our pajamas (well, Ty and I are.) I guess my system was anticipating nothing to do this week, because I feel horrible. At least the "mom taxi" has today off.

Dancing Queens

2009-05-18T12:51:00.009-06:00

B- E- A- utiful! I know I am biased, but really, have you ever seen two prettier girls!?!

Handsome T-Rex's Big Day

2009-04-23T08:58:00.009-06:00

Ty's birthday was filled with toys, boys (Becky's kids are his favorite playmates) and amazing cupcakes in the shape of an alligator (thanks Tiff!)

It is hard to choose my favorite three things about Tyler, but I have decided they are:

1- His smile and laugh (They go hand in hand.)

2- His thoughtful questions (I swear he has a sixteen year old brain inside that head.)

3- His gregariousness (I hope he never grows out of the desire to have everyone as a friend.)

"Three-day" is Ty's Birthday

2009-04-22T12:54:00.004-06:00

Pictures to come later, but I had to share this now. Ty woke up and as he was opening his morning present I said to him, "Ty, it is your birthday today, are you excited!?" His reply was, "It is my birthday Three-Day, not two-day." Ty, you are so right! This is what I get for trying to drill into my uber-smart child that he will be three on his birthday.

Easter Photo Fun

2009-04-16T08:06:00.008-06:00

*Handsome T-Rex

*Beautiful Rilie

*Adorable Jenna

This is my favorite picture ever! It will be hung all through my house.

We had an excellent photographer (and even better friend) take the kids pictures, WOW! If you want to see more of Jane's work go to www.cjaneshoot.blogspot.com

Sensational Six

2009-04-14T09:26:00.003-06:00

Jenna turned six last Thursday!

My six favorite things about Jenna are:

*1- Her smile. (If I can coax it out of her, it makes my day.)
*2- Her laugh. It is so contagious!
*3- Her attitude. She will forever be an individual. Total trendsetter.
*4- Her willingness to help me with anything.
(She even happily gets up at 2:00am to help with newspapers.)
*5- Her tenaciousness. (I dare you to call her stubborn to her face.)
*6- Her beauty. It goes way beyond skin deep.

Happy Birthday my Favorite Six Year Old!

Random

2009-04-03T09:33:00.010-06:00

On Monday it will be five weeks since Dave resigned from his job...
Here are some of the good things that have happened since then,

Jenna lost her first tooth

Rilie started her "Second Grade Science Fair" project

Jammie Chillin' watching movies

Jenna lost her second tooth

Rilie's class had a Patriotic Program

Tyler's "handsome haircut" has grown out enough that he can have a mohawk
(So trivial, but he was counting how many pictures there were of each of them.)

Bumbles Open House

2009-03-25T14:52:00.002-06:00

I am in love with my Bumbles watches and earrings! So, I am having a Bumbles open house. This coming Monday, March 30th from 11:30-1:30. Bring the kiddos, bring your neighbors, bring your friends, and definitely bring your check book! If you need my phone number or address leave a comment and I will get them to you. See you Monday! (If you want to check out their website before you come, go to bumblesdesign.com)

Two-Year-Old and the Time Change

2009-03-09T07:58:00.002-06:00

This morning I had to wake the kids up. A very rare occurrence at our house. Ty immediately sat straight up in bed and said, "What, it's time to get up? It can't be good morning yet, it is still dark outside." He is totally convinced he is getting away with being up in the middle of the night. Now the next trick will be to get him to go to bed at night when it is still light outside... I'll let you know how that goes.

Try this one ...

2009-03-07T09:26:00.001-07:00

Google in quotation marks "your name is like"

Krista is like if God decided to take the world's best steak and then put a slab of butter on it
Krista is like a Honey-Baked Ham - Glazed, Hot and Deliciousssssss
Krista is like a rootless tree
Krista is like the nicest, like person I know, ok
Krista is like a sponge
Krista is like a troll doll
Krista is like the most sensitive
Krista is like my own baby
Krista is ma best moody friend yuh
Krista is like totally confused

Notice how the first two are food references. Although, I don't like steak or ham...

How did Google know?

2009-02-24T06:33:00.002-07:00

I decided to follow every one's lead and google (my name) needs -
Here are the results -

Krista needs to practice her wise girl accent with someone
Krista needs her friends to be patient and understanding
Krista needs the support of a family
Krista needs to add some pics
Krista may need attachment therapy
Krista needs prayer
Krista needs someone to rely on
Krista needs to read
Krista needs tests
Krista needs a Halloween costume

If you can believe it there is someone actually named "Dave Needs"

Dave needs a rest
Dave needs a band
Dave needs pants
Dave needs a bike
Dave needs a timeout
Dave needs a shower
Dave needs to use the facilities
Dave needs work
Dave needs a new home
Dave needs a little friendly help

If you are reading this and haven't done it yet, I tag you. Also, read Jane's it is way funny.

Something Funny

2009-02-18T10:44:00.003-07:00

Two antennas met on a roof, fell in love and got married. The ceremony wasn't much, but the reception was excellent.

Doc, I can't stop singing "She's a Lady." That sounds like Tom Jones Syndrome. Is it common? Well, It's Not Unusual.

Two cows are standing next to each other in a field... Daisy says to Dolly, "I was artificially inseminated this morning." "I don't believe you," says Dolly. "It's true," exclaims Daisy, "No Bull!"

Two fish swim into a concrete wall. One turns to the other and says, "Dam!"

A woman has twins, and gives them up for adoption. One of them goes to a family in Egypt, and is named Ahmal. The other goes to a family in Spain; they name him Juan. Years later, Juan sends a picture of himself to his birth mother. Upon receiving the picture she tells her husband that she wishes she also had a picture of Ahmal. Her husband responded, "They're twins! If you've seen Juan, you've seen Ahmal."

Last but not least:

Mahatma Gandhi, as you know, walked barefoot most of the time, which produced an impressive set of calluses on his feet. He also ate very little, which made him rather frail and with his odd diet, he suffered from bad breath. This made him a...
Super-calloused fragile mystic hexed by halitosis.

They say there is nothing like a good joke. And these, I know, were nothing like good jokes.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

2009-02-15T17:00:00.005-07:00

- My Handsome Guys -

- Three Sweethearts -

- Me and My Girls -

My Vain Two-Year-Old

2009-02-04T12:44:00.002-07:00

Oh, my! Ty's haircut has caused a complete identity crisis. Today he has been walking around rubbing his head and frowning. Every time he passes me or one of the girls he asks if he is still handsome. I keep holding him up in front of the mirror and telling him I love his haircut, but it doesn't matter if his hair is short or long, he is still the most handsome two-year-old I know. Then he smiles and says, "Yeah I am." And goes back to wandering around, rubbing his head and frowning. I wonder how long it will take for his hair to grow back. What have I done?!

I Want My Hair Back!

2009-02-03T16:57:00.007-07:00

Before:

This:

+

This:

=

I know in the picture he is smiling, but he cried the entire time I was buzzing. Then when he saw his crazy curls in the tub he started shouting, "I want my hair back, put it back!"

Luckily Ty's hair grows faster
and thicker than anyone's I've ever met.

Spoiled, spoiled, spoiled!!!

2009-01-16T09:27:00.002-07:00

Finally some Christmas pictures.

Thank heavens for aunts and grandparents!

AMEN!

2009-01-16T08:42:00.003-07:00

I usually don't share my political views, but this I agreed whole heartedly with!
(it didn't turn out great, but in the top corner it says "pre-inaugural address" the alien's sign says "take me to your leader" and the man is saying "why don't you do us both a favor and come back in a week")

California Dreamin'

2009-01-06T09:56:00.002-07:00

I usually try to coordinate my playlist and my posts, I know, just a little OCD.
My aunt and uncle were here for Christmas and they asked if we would like to switch houses with them for a month. They were joking of course. But, the more I think about it the more tempted I am. I would give up two or three feet of snow for 55 and sunny in a heartbeat. They told us there is a Big 5 right down the street, so Dave is set. To my neighbors, if you see us hauling out necessities and a couple in their forties with a nice truck dragging stuff in, you will know that the cold finally got to me (or the begging finally got to Dave) and we will see you in a month.

What did you expect?!

2009-01-06T09:33:00.003-07:00

So, quite a few of you have asked me where my Sugar Bowl Win post is. The Utes (of course) made football and state history with a 31-17 victory over Alabama. But, I was not surprised, and any of you true Utah fans shouldn't have been either. Johnson was awesome, the whole team played great, and the new defensive coordinator did one heck of a job! Now if there are a ton of people that usually cheer for the team down south that want to switch allegiance, who can blame them? The quest for perfection didn't really turn out the way BYU expected, did it? Our friends' nephew had a shirt that said, "The Quest for Perfection looks better in RED! How true! Go UTES!

More from the kids...

2009-01-01T14:30:00.003-07:00

The day before yesterday I was getting Tyler dressed in a new outfit, and as an impatient two year old, he didn't want to wait for the sweater. I told him to let me put it on and he would be handsome. Then I stopped, corrected myself, and told him he was handsome no matter what he was wearing. He turned, gave me a hug and whispered in my ear, "Merry Christmas my best friend."

Yesterday we were at Nana /Grammy & Grampy's house and all of the kids were dowstairs playing. There was ALOT of commotion, so I went down to see what was going on. Rilie Jenna and Tyler were piled on top of Grampy. I told them no more rough housing, and in unison they replied, "He started it!"

Gems

2008-12-27T09:14:00.002-07:00

Here are a few bits of conversation:

(I told Jenna to be good or Santa wouldn't come)
Jenna: I don't believe in Santa Claus anymore.
Me: Then why did you write him a letter?
Jenna(picture the eye roll): Just in case.

(After Ty spilled water in his bed and got in trouble)
Tyler: Can I have some water?
Me: No, Daddy already told you no.
Tyler: Daddy said it louder.

(I dyed my hair darker)
Rilie: I like your hair, it is only two colors now. (The roots are still darker.)
Me: Thanks Ri.

(Tyler put a piece of a foam letter up his nose)
Tyler: Mom it hurts!
Me: What hurts?
Tyler: In my nose.
Me: Let me see how far it is up there. Ty, I don't think I can get it.
Tyler: But you're the mom!

Countdown

2008-12-22T05:44:00.003-07:00

It is the twenty-second of December. My house is a crazy disaster, I haven't finished shopping yet, needless to say I haven't finished wrapping yet, my refrigerator is empty, and I still have part of my quarterly job (which is due tomorrow) to do. Does anyone else feel like me? I loved watching the girls' Christmas dance concert and hearing the school choir that Rilie is in sing, but I am too harried to really enjoy myself. I remember when I was in elementary school singing a song, "There are six pink peppermints 'til Christmas, and there's lots and lots of things for us to do..." If you went to school with me you just had a flash-back. I keep thinking I can get caught up tomorrow, sadly my tomorrows are numbered, as all three of my children keep reminding me. There are three pink peppermints 'til Christmas, and there's lots and lots of things for us to do, like sing Christmas carols 'round the tree, then you and I can bake a pumpkin pie, and pick a purple tie for uncle Lou... Merry Christmas!

Touching news story

2008-12-21T08:57:00.001-07:00

Subject: Utah Courts and Custody Hearing of a 7 Year Old
Salt Lake City, UT. (AP) - A seven-year old boy was at the center of a SL County courtroom drama yesterday when he challenged a court ruling over who should have custody of him. The boy had a history of being beaten by his parents and the judge initially awarded custody to his aunt, in keeping with child custody law and regulation requiring that family unity be maintained to the highest degree possible. The boy surprised the court when he proclaimed that his aunt beat him more than his parents had and he adamantly refused to live with her. When the judge then suggested that he live with his grandparents, the boy cried and said that they also beat him. After considering the remainder of the immediate family and learning that domestic violence was apparently a way of life among them, the judge took the unprecedented step of allowing the boy to propose who should have custody of him.

After two recesses to check legal references and confer with the child welfare officials, the judge granted temporary custody to the BYU COUGARS, whom everyone firmly believes are NOT capable of beating anyone.

Christmas Memories

2008-12-13T11:52:00.008-07:00

One year my mom and her sisters (who are almost as thoughtful and fun as she is)had a great idea for a gift for Nana (their mom.) We started our family Christmas party at my parents house, which was unusual, but we sang Christmas songs and waited for everyone to arrive. I can't remember the story to get Nana outside, but there was a huge horse-drawn carriage at the top of my parents' street when we all looked out. My mom suggested that we go ask if we could go for a ride. Nana was beside herself that one of her daughters would be so forward. After my mom talked to the driver for a couple of minutes they started coming down the street, horses, carriage and all. It was a set-up of course. We all got to ride the trailer-sized sleigh to Nana's house a few miles away. It was a riot. Cars honked and people waved and we caroled the entire ride. (This was long before Dave & kids, hopefully we can do it again someday!)

The difference between BYU and Cheerios...

2008-12-08T05:34:00.007-07:00

...Cheerios belong in a bowl!

The Utes are going to Louisiana. In light of this most favorable event, I received a poem that any Utah fan (and probably BYU fans with a good sense of humor) will love.

This is BYU Quarterback, Max Hall's 4th Quarter Prayer.

It's me again, Lord, Your quarterback, Max.
Me and the brethren are flat on our backs.

With precious few minutes to go in this tussle,
Our halftime prayer service didn't give us the muscle

To beat down Paul Kruger, Sylvester and Newman,
Misi, A'asa, Beadles or Vroman.

We don't have a Johnson, Asiata or Mack
to strengthen our puny and hapless attack.

Sakoda is flawless; Casteel is too shifty.
If they score any more points, they'll beat us by fifty!

Have we offended thee, Lord? Are Cougar fans sinning?
We're not playing well, and, STILL WE'RE NOT WINNING!

That just isn't fair. This wasn't our Quest.
Our coaches have told us we're clearly the best.

We know we are Your team! The cream of the wheat.
The heathens assail us! We can't stand the heat!

I just don't believe it! It's just not very FAIR!
Our Quest is now over. We just can't compare

To Utah's fine record of unblemished fame.
I guess we're off now to lose another bowl game.

Written by: Phil Johnson (I did skip a few lines in the middle)

Utah, Utah, Utah Man am I! Utah Man Sir, and Will be 'Til I Die! GO UTES!

LO*VE

2008-12-03T18:29:00.004-07:00

Once upon a time... Just kidding. Eleven years ago today Dave proposed. He took me to the places we had gone on our first date. We started with dinner at Red Robin, followed by a trip to Murray Park. Yes, he made me go to the park in December. When we got to the park there were candles and music and pie (my favorite.) After we ate our pie we danced! I love dancing. Funny how when we were dating Dave had me thoroughly convinced that he was romantic and would do anything, no matter how embarrassing, just to make me happy. While we were dancing (to the cassette that he had made no less,) he asked me to marry him. I thought he was joking and told him no and to ask again when he meant it. Then he pulled the ring out of his pocket and asked me again. What can I say, I am a sucker for diamonds. No, I knew that I wanted to be with him forever, so of course I said yes. After that he drove me home to show my parents the ring. My hat is truly off to them. If Rilie comes home four months after she turns eighteen and tells me she is getting married I will ship her to an all girls college in Siberia. They were happy (or they feined happiness well) and wished us luck. Six months later we were married. As a side note, I should probably have figured out that he was really not at all romantic because one of the songs on the cassette was Red Hot Chili Peppers' Suck My Kiss. Which is the song I didn't listen to and so embarrassingly put on my blog in preparation for this story.

How EMBARRASSING!

2008-11-30T13:39:00.002-07:00

I am MORTIFIED! I had no idea that the Red Hot Chili Peppers song that was on my playlist was so foul! I have the edited version of that CD. Leave it to me to be naive enough to think that the song didn't have anything wrong with it. I didn't even listen to it until today when the girls asked me which songs I had on the blog. That was awkward. I do have a story about that song, a different day. Sorry again!

Eight really is Great!

2008-11-30T13:05:00.001-07:00

Rilie was baptized yesterday. It was such a special day and it was so disappointing. Let me explain. Rilie was beautiful, happy, excited and nervous. Dave and Jenna were pale, greenish, and throwing up. We asked Rilie if she wanted to wait another month so that Dave could baptize her, or if she wanted Grampy to do it. Lucky for her she had options. Rilie has always had a choose the right attitude, and didn't want to wait. Dave and Jenna were sad to miss it, but happy Rilie was making a good decision. Jenna was also appeased by the fact that eventually Rilie's baptism dress would become a hand-me-down. So Tyler and I took Rilie to the church leaving half of our family at home. Tyler called the church a castle as we pulled up to it, which was appropriate, since Rilie truly is a princess. Rilie was radiant. My dad gave her a beautiful blessing (that reminded me just how quickly she is growing up)after he baptized and confirmed her. We are so lucky to have her in our family.
Footnote: Thanks to Becky for letting us have lunch at her house so everyone didn't get sick. Maybe I should be thanking Aaron, since he was the one who had just cleaned the day before.

EW GROSS!

2008-11-26T19:54:00.003-07:00

A quick rant. I went to dinner last night with some of my favorite friends, which is always a greatly needed escape from kids, work, sleep deprivation, etc... We went to Applebee's. We waited 20 minutes for our order to be taken. A little frustrating. We ordered sandwiches and wraps. An hour later we got our sandwiches and wraps - no, they weren't filled with steak or anything else that would even require cooking. Even more frustrating. I took a bite of my sandwich. Then looked at it more carefully seeing the big green mold spot in the middle of the bread. What is that!?! How do you prepare food for a living and not notice something like that? The manager came over and told us she would have the sandwiches re-made for us and that they would be free. I told her I was reluctant to give it up, mold and all, because it had taken so long to get it in the first place. She promised five minutes. It was more like ten. I ate my sandwich quickly, without looking at it, afraid of what I might see. I don't think I will be going back anytime soon. I would like to go out again, maybe next time we'll just go to Chick-filet.

Jesus Loves "U"

2008-11-23T10:27:00.002-07:00

We went to the game yesterday. Of course we went to the game yesterday. I consider our family to be of the die hard Utah fan variety, until I see some of the crazies. First, there are the parents of the (extremely) overweight 10 year old that let him paint his stomach red and do the truffle shuffle(Goonies)for the camera. Next, there is the guy, that for some reason dresses up in a Utah football uniform with a cape and a Jack Sparrow hat and wig and wanders around. But, yesterday was the absolute best. A man with long dark hair was wearing an old Jerusalem get up. I wasn't close enough to see if he had on the sandals or not, but the cream robe and sash looked pretty authentic. He was surrounded by very pretty girls that had red devil horns and tails. That was comical, and we had a good chuckle, until we saw the sign he was holding. The front said "Jesus Loves U" the back said, "Even I hate BYU, GO UTES!" Then, we were laughing hysterically. Talk about people taking things too far. We had a great time. We ate treats. We snuggled in blankets. We heckled some Y fans as they were leaving early (with their tails between their legs.) And, WE WON! GO UTES!!!!! Footnote: I took some pictures with my phone, if I ever figure out how to get them onto the computer you can all laugh at the signs with me.

Trick - or - Treating still?

2008-11-02T11:54:00.002-07:00

This morning I decided not to go to church. I am still not feeling great. But, I got the kids ready, then gave Ty the option to stay home and take a nap (like I am supposed to be doing) so that Dave wouldn't have to put up with him during Sacrament Meeting. He didn't answer me right away so I asked him again, "Ty, church or nap?" He looked at me and said, "Let's go trick -or- treating." I don't know when it is going to end, but that kid sure has a drive to get more free candy.

A Rockstar, A Christmas Tree & Yoda

2008-11-01T15:22:00.006-06:00

Halloween: Candy, costumes, fun and friends. I have strep (AGAIN) and couldn't go Trick -or- Treating with the kids, but Dave said they had a great time. Ty, who was very upset to be wearing a ridiculous outfit, was calmed quickly when he figured out if he yelled trick or treat he got candy, he wouldn't even let Dave touch his bag, let alone carry it for him, even though it was way heavy. This morning he woke up and asked if he could trick or treat again. Rilie and Jenna have spent most of today asking for "one more piece." They are so cute, how can I refuse?

Sad but True

2008-11-01T15:11:00.002-06:00

Stocks: Down
Bonds: Down
Funds: Down
Commodities: Down
Confidence: Down
Credit: Down
Sales: Down
Jobs: Down
Only one system in the universe is resilient
enough to defy the trend and go in the exact
opposite direction.
Just in time for winter - a time for sweats and
comfort foods.

Weight: UP

MICKEYMOUSE

2008-10-27T12:20:00.011-06:00

These are a (very) few of my favorite pictures from our Disneyland trip with Grammy, Grampy, Becky's family, Karl & Kim. We got to spend six days, including Rilie's birthday, with some of our most favorite people in the Happiest Place on Earth. Thanks again for a great trip Grammy and Grampy!

*Two Thirsty Two Year Olds
*Rilie, Jenna, Goofy and Goofy!?
*Seven Spoiled Grandkids
*We're a Happy Family
*Birthday, Trick or Treating and Disneyland
I think the pictures are out of order, but you get the idea.

Happy Birthday Tiny!

2008-10-27T12:01:00.003-06:00

Rilie turned 8! I have seen this a few times, but I thought I would tell you my eight favorite things about her, and then her eight favorite things.
The things that I cherish about Rilie:
1- She is a peacemaker
2- She will do anything to make someone happy
3- She loves to read and has a great imagination
4- She loves me no matter what I do
5- She is always up for anything(without complaining)
6- She is very selfless
7- She strives to make the right choices
8- She always does her best

The eight things Rilie couldn't live without:
1- Webkinz
2- Her family & friends
3- Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
4- Sunsets
5- Reading
6- Going to movies with Daddy and Jenna
7- Playing outside (bike riding and monkey bars)
8- Holidays, specifically Halloween & Christmas

Ewww, Snow!

2008-10-11T09:57:00.002-06:00

It's finally here. The wait is over. The best part of living next to a mountain in Utah. Am I laying on the sarcasm thick enough? Right now it is snowing. I hate snow. The whole winter season is not much better. The seemingly endless gray skies. The bitter biting cold. Having to be inside with bickering kids and know that I am neglecting the cleaning that needs to be done. There are two things I am looking forward to. Sledding. We had so much fun last year with the kids. Even though Ty was only one he was a trooper, until Dave helped him face plant into the snow. The girls love racing and taking turns making new trails. And, the holidays. Starting with Halloween. I decorated a month ago. I love when each new holiday season starts, seeing the excitement on my kids faces. In the bleak winter months I have the shining faces of my beautiful children to light the way back into spring. I am only feeling this way because they are getting along and playing quietly in a different part of the house. I can't even hear them. Ahhhh, bliss.

Oh, the things they say.

2008-09-26T08:43:00.002-06:00

Tyler is my favorite for the hilarity that leaves his mouth. Some of the great things he has said recently are:
* "No they are just shoes." -When Jane asked if she had cool kicks like his.
* "But I'm so handsome." -When we had to change his too small church clothes.
* "Give me knuckles." -To the strangers behind us at the game when the Utes scored.
* "Ooo, you are pretty princess." -The last time I wore make-up and did my hair.
* "The baby girlfriends will get my shovel." -When he was playing with the twins and had to stop for a minute.
* "What the hell is that milk doing?" -After I spilled it and proceeded to cuss.
* "That baby has my hat." -When he saw Jonah wearing his old Utah hat.
* "No, I'll just watch T.V." -When I told him it was time to get Jenna from school.
* "Good job Daddy." - When Dave turned down the street to go to his parent's house.
* "I can't get it off, I need clothes, I'm not a princess." -This morning when I put on his overalls for the first time.
He is still telling me he is stuck in his pants.

YOU KNOW IT'S BAD WHEN THE DOCTOR SAYS, "WHOA!"

2008-09-17T18:53:00.006-06:00

I gave into the pressure and went to the doctor today. Now I am kicking myself. Why didn't I go Friday when I started getting sick. I don't consider myself a masochist, I just thought I would get better. I still feel so crummy that my mom (like a trooper) had to drive me. It is times like these that I wish I had never gotten married and moved out. Who takes better care of you than your mom? She doesn't ask if you need something, she is right there with your favorite shake, and she already knew the flavor you wanted. Not to discount the fact that Dave has taken over my jobs this week, or that cute Jane brought me not one, but two flavors of ice cream. I hope that my mom does not catch strep, even more than that, I hope that she knows I can't make it without her. Love you Mom!

September 11th Memories

2008-09-11T18:28:00.003-06:00

I got this idea from someone else, but I thought it was a good one. Because of the date, I was reflecting on my own September 11th experience, and I thought I would share. (As a preface, I will say that our bad luck really does come in threes, but fortunately for us, it is not nearly as tragic as some peoples'. The week before we left on vacation a Semi-Truck hit Dave and totalled our car.) We were in a hotel in Anaheim getting ready for a fun filled day at Disneyland. I went to the little cafe in the hotel to get Rilie (almost one at the time) some yogurt. The people in the elevator told me I needed to get back to my room and turn on the news right away. I thought that was odd coming from strangers, but I did what they said. How awful! When I clicked on the television they were playing and re-playing the plane hitting the first tower and speculating what had happened. I got Dave out of the shower, and we watched, horrified. When we couldn't take any more, we decided to go to Disneyland (the happiest place on earth.) We didn't get very far when we realized something was wrong. The gates were locked. The park was closed. We later learned that L.A. and surrounding areas were also targets. We drove every where looking for something to take our minds off of reality. The malls were closed. The beaches had chains across their parking lots. I think we finally settled on dinner from McDonald's and went back to the hotel. We were stuck in Anaheim for a few more days. I don't know if I would have been brave enough to fly even if their had been a flight available. We took the only rental car available and to our great relief we were able to come home. I think that is the only time we weren't wishing to be on vacation longer. (Bad thing #3 - In October Dave was laid-off. He was working at the Marriott Hotel Reservation center in the service support department. Business decreased so much that they were letting people go left and right.) I am so greatful for all of the people that fight in so many ways to preserve our freedoms! God Bless America!

I am not a hermit, just a soccer mom!

2008-09-02T09:08:00.004-06:00

SO, this week starts our favorite time of year. Dance twice a week and soccer three times, not to mention the Utes football season. I keep telling Dave that Ty can play soccer, and the girls can just dance. He says they can give up dance and play more soccer, regardless of what Tyler decides to do. Since neither of us is going to give in, I get to put the rest of my life on hold to make sure we are to practice, games, recitals, etc... If I don't see you for a while, give me a call (on my cell - I'm sure I won't be home!)

NO WAY!

2008-08-29T16:42:00.003-06:00

Anyone who is as obsessed with the Twilight Saga as I am already knows that a partial, unfinished version of Midnight Sun was published without permission online. To my great dismay (not to mention Andrea's) Stephenie Meyer has put of finishing this book "indefinitely." So all of you Twihards and Twilight Moms and anyone else that cares- write to Little Brown or find a chat group, or e-mail Stephenie herself (if you can do that last one PLEASE let me know how.) For now I guess I deal with the fact that I won't get to hear as much from Edward as I was hoping. How easy it is for me to get sucked into a fictional world. Oh well, everyone needs some kind of escape.

KINDERGARTEN?!

2008-08-26T08:44:00.005-06:00

I know, I know. I have said all along that our house would be more peaceful when our precocious five year old started kindergarten. It has been twenty whole minutes since I dropped her off and I still haven't pulled it together. Dave thinks I am either hilarious or a hypocrite. Jenna got in her line, and without a glance back toward her (embarrassingly) teary-eyed mother, was on her way. It has been ten years since I last attended a class, but I still HATE the first day of school.

Ty the Wonder Kid

2008-08-19T10:39:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, after Jenna's meeting with her kindergarten teacher, I was curious about how much Ty knows at this point. I already knew that he could point to and correctly name all of the capital letters (and most of the lower case), so I started asking him what each of the letters said (you know, two year old speak for what sound does that letter make.) He did the entire alphabet. I really need to go to college before the little maniac's knowledge surpasses mine. But, by the time I get my degree, he will probably be teaching quantum physics or something else I have to use spell check to even write.