Merry Christmas

Wasn't Christmas wonderful. My children are at the perfect age... with excitement and magic but few expectations. They definitely get the whole gift getting thing... everytime we are at the store, they informed me that they wanted every truck, train, or doll we passed. But they also got giddy when I saw an elf (plus it motivated them to clean up) and they Love reading and singing about Baby Jesus.

We have spent almost the whole week with my family...just camping out at my parents house. I have been home only a few hours in the past 5 days. It has been SO much fun! All of my siblings and wives except Josh and Val have been here. It has been great to sleep here because we can hang out, talk, watch movies, and play games until the wee hours each morning. Plus, my new sister-in-laws are perfect for the family... Here's to the sistahs!

Christmas eve we did the traditional Christmas pageant. My kids were Mary and Joseph, and of course their daddy was the donkey. Gamps asked my kids (in front of all the family) what the real meaning of Christmas was. I was relieved when Bekah replied "Giving and Jesus". A couple weeks ago, her answer was "getting presents" so we have been talking about that. Phew.

Christmas morning, presents were opened one at a time. My kids were patient in between turns, more busy playing with their new toys. It was perfect. Family. Fun. Giving. We have received more than our fair share!

the Fistula Foundation

Thank you to everyone who has been donating! We have raised over $600 so far (and I am sure that even more have donated that I am unaware of)! It's good to think that we have helped changed at least one woman's life so far... helping someone return to her family and live a normal life. Keep it up!

On Jan. 3rd, there will be a boutique here in Woods Cross from 11-2pm. Not only will there be great vendors, but also a silent auction to help raise money for the fistula foundation. Spread the word!

Good ol' Bing

My parents have a talking doll, Bing Crosby dressed like Santa, and if you push a button he sings Christmas carols. In the past, he scared the bejeebers out of Bekah, but not this year. Bekah and Kyle love it so much, my parents have to hide Bing so we don't have to listen to him over and over. Well, singing in the car the other day, Bekah got excited singing, "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas." because that was "one of Bing's songs"! Then she began another song that he sings. Wow! I couldn't even tell you what songs he sings... other than they get really annoying after the 50th time.

traditions

I have no fond memories of Christmas baking. Not because my mom didn't bake a lot of goodies. She must have done a ton, because I do remember bringing baked cookies, caramels, etc. to neighbors houses while carolling. I just don't remember helping bake any of it. Hmm... maybe because I didn't.

As probably everyone knows, I'm not much of a baker. I'm not a huge fan of cookies, I don't really like candy a lot, and definitely don't like cake (I didn't even have one at my wedding. Gosh, I am so lame). However, if there is anything with a dip... I am there. Hence the fact that we go through salsa in record time.

Here is a picture of my great mom baking cupcakes with her grandkids. (Where am I? Well, somebody had to take pictures... and do other stuff).

This year, though, I am resolved to bake! While neighbors have received store bought things from us in the past, this year I am actually going to make something while hopefully supplying fond and loving memories to my own children. After putting it off for two weeks, I am committed. I tried yesterday, but I accidentally put all of the ingredients in the Mazda and drove to my parents house in the Altima. I think that perhaps I was subconsciously sabotaging myself. But no more! Tomorrow, at noon, I am going to my mom's house to make Christmas goodies.

One of my favorite Christmas traditions is gathering around the tree each night and singing Christmas songs. My family can do it for hours without repeating a song. This year, Rob and I have really tried to slow down in the evening and make time to do it each night, as well as read a Christmas story. It has been wonderful! Both my kids have learned so many songs already. We even sing when driving, each taking turns picking the song. Along with classics like Joy to the World, and Away in a Manger, my kids love to sing some lesser knowns like Go tell it on the Mountain, and the Friendly Beasts songs. After singing for a while, Kyle will eventually always choose, "I am a Child of God" and "I love to see the Temple." I think those two songs are actually quite fitting at Christmas. Don't you?

You can't beat home sweet home

Oh there's no place like home for the holidays! I have spent Christmas's freezing in blizzards and sweating because of the heat. Christmases walking on the beach and Christmases huddled around the heat. But it is always the best Christmas with family to share it with. Because we figured we would still be in Michigan, I have treasured this chance to be near family.

After Thanksgiving with the Franklins, we next enjoyed a week with Uncle Josh, Aunt Valerie, and Noah and Eli. It was so fun to be with them. If you are reading this, I have to thank you for the wonderful time we had with you! I just love and admire you both, and it is so hilarious seeing those cousins together. One favorite memory was when the three kids were decorating cupcakes. Bekah (the oldest) enjoyed decorating one after another. Kyle smacked as much frosting as he could on the cupcake and then just ate the top of it. And Noah skipped the cupcake all together and just ate the frosting.
We had a big family gathering with the Bassetts last Monday. Dear Grandma Bassett! She is always one to have a party with tons of people over. It doesn't matter how crowded or chaotic or messy, she welcomes you in. Grandma, I love you! It was so fun seeing Sid, Stef, Casey and Ben, and the rest visiting from out of town.

We have really loved doing stuff with Uncle Richie, Aunt Caroline, Alex, and Jonathan. It's meant a lot to me to get to know Caroline so much more this past year. You are a great mom and an amazing woman!

I'm so excited to see Jared, Tonya, Jons, Celeste, Mary, this coming week! I feel so grateful to live near my parents. I didn't grow up near grandparents and I remember as a little girl having friends visit their grandparents and wishing that I could visit mine. Now it is an answer to prayer to see how close my own kids are to theirs. They talk about them all of the time. They even recognize the way to their house (and EVERY time, Kyle always says "keep your eyes open fer Charity Hill, okay!" and then acts so excited to point it out as we pass). I am especially grateful for my parents, who made our Christmases special no matter where we lived. I always felt the sweetness of the holiday because of their preparation and their open hearts. My parents, away from their own families at Christmas, opened our house to others: whether it was to missionaries, or a Chinese visitor (I still remember us kids told him he had to eat the 12-layer jello layer by layer...bless him), or a foster brother.

So to all of my loved ones who will be far away this holiday: Josh, Val, Jannene, Kevin, and my dear friends, I pray for you, that you will feel the warmth of loved ones and you will feel at home this Christmas.

a sacred moment

"The only thing worth stealing is a kiss from a sleeping child" said Joe Houldsworth. It is the time when all the corruptions of humanity rests, leaving behind that small, vulnerable, gift from God.

It has been a very long day... a day of crying, screaming, fighting, no naps (but very much needed!), breaking, and impatience. Not the best of days for any of us. And so it is to my children's bedroom that I creep for one last look before I sleep. I go, as though to a church, to make my own confessions to those sleeping angels. Asking forgiveness and promising that I will be more patient and loving and Christlike. A better mother. And thanking God with all of my heart for the wonderfully horrible day that I could have with my two children.

The true meaning of Christmas

Several months ago, I watched a documentary that touched me so much, I sobbed through it. It was about women in 3rd world countries who do not have access to obstetrical care. They labor, sometimes for over a week, before their dead baby is finally removed. Then their life gets worse... because of prolonged labor, they have developed a fistula, which causes urine to leak constantly. Because of the smell, they are completely rejected from family and their community. Their husbands leave them, they cannot even live in the family's house. Outcast for life. But there are people who are doing something. There are a few doctors who have established a wonderful hospital with a 93% cure rate. Wow! I was so touched. These are mothers... like me. If I hadn't gotten care during labor, this could have been me or one of my friends. As I watched about these women, I felt God whisper that I needed to do something.

A day before I left for Thanksgiving, I got fund-raising information and so I started as soon as I got home. This has been very difficult, since I am not good at selling. I'm not the kind of person to have parties of one kind or another, but this Thursday I had a party to raise money. Not a whole lot of people came, but the women who did were very excited and we came up with a great plan to raise more. We have raised over $300 so far... but I hope that will just be a drop in the bucket. If you are interested, you can donate at: www.fistulafoundation.org

As I have prayed for help and a desire to serve, I have felt the spirit of Christmas so strong! I am just overcome by how blessed I am! It still gets me teary to think of how rich we are! I have a family that is healthy. I have clean water... and plenty of it. I have never worried about how to feed my children. Never. My husband has work. The fact that I am an educated woman, who was able to choose my occupation as well as my husband, makes me very unique in this world!

It is almost overwhelming to think of how much need there is in the world. 40% of the world lives in severe poverty! Not because they are lazy or deserve it. No. God has placed me... all of us... in a position where we have so much potential to make a difference. We may be in the middle of a financial crisis, but it's not such a crisis to most of us that we are wondering how to feed our children.

That is my plea to us all this season. I don't care if your cause isn't mine... just find a cause. Find some way to serve and lift. Sorry if I sound self-righteous. This is something I struggle with, too... as I find myself considering how many gifts we'll give our children, or which color shirt I want for Christmas. Let us pause and think of for WHOM we celebrate this season, and why we celebrate HIS LIFE. Let us make a sacrifice on His behalf... not just a buck in a salvation army's bucket. A sacrifice for HIM who sacrificed everything.

Thanksgiving Los Vegas style

Happy Thanksgiving! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving down in Los Vegas with the Franklin family. We went swimming, saw a show on the strip, and enjoyed the many sights that Los Vegas has to offer. No wait, I mean we enjoyed the family friendly good sights... like watching the lions at MGM, or laughing so hard seeing my kids squeal with joy on the amusement rides at Circus Circus. With 4 strollers in our group, we were not bugged or approached by anything un-family friendly. And about the amusement rides... I don't know who had more fun. Them, or us watching them. As soon the ride was over, my 2 year old would take off running to go do it again.

Thank you to the Franklins for planning such a fun trip! Thanks for the Ann Marie & Travis (Rob's cousins) who let everyone enjoy Thanksgiving at their house. My kids still ask constantly if we can go to their house... like it's around the block instead of 6 hours away.

The day before I was going to leave for Los Vegas, Kyle woke up from his nap with a 104 fever and swollen glands. I ran both kids over to the Kidscare and sure enough, Kyle had strep. Of course. This kid always gets sick when we are going to visit the Franklins. Luckily, it was something we could start antibiotics, and by Mon., he was no longer contagious. When Bekah awoke with a fever a couple nights later, I already had a prescription and started her immediately. Also, the kids were absolutely fabulous on the drive! I drove down alone with the kids and Rob joined us a few days later, but the drive was a breeze. Count my blessings. Anyway, we have much to be grateful for!

Up to the Mountain Tops

I love family. Last weekend we called up Richie and Carolyn and went hiking up Ensign Peak. A nice hike that the kids could make it up all the way. Nothing like hiking with 4 kids under 4 (this was before Bekah's big day). It was so much fun. Gosh, I love you guys. Carolyn and I have had fun working together on digital scrapbooking.

Rob has been working hard. He finally got his chip back and so has been busy testing. He stays up on campus one or two days a week and works until 9 or 10pm just to get some more done. He has also been networking and starting to look for a post-graduate job. Not that he is graduating quite yet, but I am so thankful for a husband who is so assertive and already starting to look for ways to provide for his family. I must confess, after reading about the world's economy or violence spreading, I get really nervous for my family. But every time I pray, I feel really peaceful. I have a great man by my side, am blessed with my children, and I feel like with the Lord's help, we can face whatever comes our way.

Happy Birthday Bekah

The big numero quatro! We had a little princess party this morning... a breakfast celebration with family and Berlynn (Bekah's best friend), and her cousin Alex. After breakfast, the 3 princesses (donned in their princess dresses) and prince brother decorated crowns and hats. This year I made a castle cake. For someone who doesn't like to eat cake, it sure is fun to decorate it. Anyway, this year Bekah totally understood the whole gift thing. Previously, we had to help her with presents. This year, we had to help save the presents from her. She opened her first gift as soon as her friend walked in the door with it, so we had to slow the gift opening down just a little bit. Thanks everyone who came, called, or did webcam with us. We sure love you!

Anyway, tons of fun. My daughter and her friend (still in dress ups) are now in a vegetated state in front of her new Princess Dora movie and Kyle is out cold upstairs. Nothing like the post-sugar drop.

Bekah's Primary Program Debut

Bekah had her first Primary Program! Wow! I must confess, the program is a little different when you actually have a young child in it. Instead of sitting back and chuckling, you are mouthing all the words, smiling, giving thumbs up, or trying to do sign language get your child to sit in their seat. The primary is not a big one, but there are 12 sunbeams who sat in the very front. Bekah did great! She sang beautifully for at least the 1st verse of every song and sat in her seat for most of Sacrament meeting. She only came down to us twice... once when she loudly whispered that she had to go potty. But she looked so adorable. Really, I know I'm biased, but the girl was just precious.

When it came to her part, she walked up and clearly and beautifully said, "My name is Bekah and I am a child of God." Super. Then she turned around and fell off the stool. I think that there was an audible gasp from the audience. Without batting an eye, her head popped up and she made her way back to her chair with a proud grin. My husband leaned over lovingly and said, "Classic Bekah."

Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween! Ours was great! Parties, candy, and great weather. Bekah had a preschool party on Thurs., the library did something Friday in the morning, and then the Trunk or Treat was Friday night. We were royalty this Halloween... as it may be the last year we can coordinate. Next year Kyle may not be so pliant. Ahh... I love toddlers!

Bekah was a princess, Kyle a knight in shining armor (he really just loved the sword), Daddy a king, and I was a fairy godmother. My neighbor lent me the dress... and it was pink poof. A couple little girls came up and just stood awestruck in front of me, wistfully stroking the dress. The next morning my neighbor's little girl asked (again!) "Can you put on the pretty dress?"

It was fun to have my parents and Rob's dad over for the trunk or treat. After returning home for dinner-in-a-pumpkin, Rob headed out with the kids for more (I think dad's go for this because of the candy), and then we spent the evening at my neighbor's house. The kids just ran around in their sugar-induced frenzy (no you cannot just eat cookies for dinner) while the adults just talked. The next morning, my kids woke up, and like 80% of American kids, the first words out of their mouths were, "Can I have some candy?"

Super MAN!

Even though Rob was hoping to go hunting Saturday, he wasn't able to go with his friend so he instead planned a fun family hike to a geocache up Centerville canyon. It was really beautiful and we had a great time. On the way back we decided to pick up the pace and carry the kids most of the way (it was only 1 1/2 mile round trip). Everyone who knows me, knows that I am no sure-footed bunny. Actually, it's more sure that I will spill, fall, trip, or break something before anyone else does (Who broke the bowl that my great-great-grandma carefully carried out west? Who forced my mom into becoming the stain-removing champion of the world? I try to think of it as a gift, really. Or a curse.). So hiking back, my sweet husband carried both children ... while I carried the backpack with empty water bottles. 75 pounds vs. 1.3 pounds. And not one complaint. He actually decided that because of some steep drop-offs, it would probably be safest for our children if he carried them both. And I heartily agreed. At the end, when Bekah and I hiked holding hands, she thought it was hilarious because I caught her when she tripped and she caught me when I tripped. So thank you SUPER MAN for saving the day!

Rob has actually been gone most of the week. Last Friday and Saturday he went with a couple friends hunting, and then he spent this Friday all day in the mountains again. No luck getting a deer, but he did a lot of hiking. Then Monday through late Wed. night he was at another conference in Michigan. He had fun doing a video call home one day, and he changed the background to different things like waterfalls or underwater. The kids LOVED it, and included him in their prayers that "the yellow fish won't bite Daddy." Anyway... since I'm sure you didn't understand any of that, I'll get back to what a superman he is.
Because my back has been killing me, he suggested that I go and get a spa treatment. So I went to a local beauty school and got a divine hot stone treatment. Then, that night I had so much fun with my sister, mom, and my sis's friends at Witches Night Out in Gardner Village. Anyway, he not only watched the kids all day, but even got stuff done on the "honey-do" list. What an AMAZING (Rob, I do hope you read this) GUY! Really, thanks so much.

Why I love Fall

Who cannot love autumn? Not only is it the season of harvest (it only takes a walk in a farmers market or garden to get excited about that), but it seems all of nature is out to display itself in one last big hurrah. So I say, "HURRAH for Fall!" Plus, I think the anticipation of the following dreary dismal months always pushes me outside to savor as much of nature as I can. Summer you can just be lazy. You know you have a lot of warmth left. Fall you must milk out every last ray of sunshine (even when it's a bit too nippy) just because you know it will only get worse.

Here are other reasons why I love autumn: Pumpkin patches and corn mazes. Aren't they great. Rebekah's preschool went to the local pumpkin patch and the kids enjoyed picking out a pumpkin and then running around in the beautiful sunshine.
Today, we went to the park and played in the leaves. I love the crunch of dried leaves.

We went to Wheeler park with my friend Charity. My kids even got to try milking a cow. I even tried. Which was really weird, seeing as I am a total suburban-raised girls. And of course, there were big tractors, which Kyle loved.


Okay, other fall things that we have done: lots of park playing, including playing with cousin Alex. It is fun to see the three playing so well together. It has also been really fun hanging out with Carolyn, my sister-in-law. I feel so blessed to have such great in-laws. Speaking of... WELCOME TO THE FAMILY MANNY! And of course a big CONGRATS to Jared and Tonya.
Anyway, my husband just got home, so adios. Luvs and kisses

Clean house, crazy woman

MY HOUSE IS CLEAN! MY HOUSE IS CLEAN!

Well, mostly. Not including the basement... I gotta be able to throw all of my junk somewhere. But my husband is out of town, and I have just cleaned like a mad woman. Cleaning so I don't go mad. The clutter was seriously getting to me. So after consulting with the rectangle (thank you, ladies), last night I decided to pack up half of the toys and hide them in the basement. Wow. Today, my kids pleasantly played and there was no humongous pile of toys everywhere. No yelling, pleading, threatening for them to clean up. Less is more.

So, I haven't blogged in about a month because I have been crazy busy. I canned grape juice, beans, and lots of jam. I decided to try my hand at canning salsa. So, after cutting up everything, I realized that I didn't have a bowl big enough to mix it all together. I had all my big bowls out, pouring things back and forth, with tomatoes everywhere! I ended up washing out one of the toy tupperwares and using that. Can I try anything and have it just work normally? Then, I have been digitally scrapbooking like crazy, because I have all those freebies at artscow.com with deadlines back-to-back. (if anybody wants a code for a 30 page photo book for $12 (that includes s/h) let me know). Heaven forbid you let a good deal pass by. Gosh, I sound a little too domestic.

So now, I am sitting here bawling because it's way to late and I'm watching a chick flick. So I'm crying because a kid died in the movie and I'm now feeling horrible guilt that I should be a much better mother to my own kids. "Oh man", I'm pathetic (yes, to add to my patheticness, I just quoted Swiper).

Maybe it's a mother thing, but I can't imagine my husband doing this. ...the guilt/crying part or the clean house.

nothing much.

A couple family stories.

The other day we went to the zoo and we were watching the Lynx licking each other. I explained to the kids about how cats lick to clean each other. A couple minutes later, I turned around and found Bekah and Kyle licking each others arms.

Last week we drove down to Provo and saw the last 15 min. of the BYU football game. How cool is it to start teaching your little one all about football. So American! And because we just walked in, we sat in super seats real close right at the 50 yard line. Nice. Then we headed to the Harri Karishna temple for Indiafest. Uncle Richie was the 10 headed monster in the play. The kids really liked it, especially when the statue of the monster was lit on fire. Kyle still likes to talk about monsters, and unfortunately he now sometimes has trouble sleeping because he is afraid of monsters. Oops.

I also was able to go to the Mormon Tab concert with Rob & my mom. It had a couple guests who were fabulous! It was such a super show. How lucky are we to have such great entertainment so accessible and so free! Gosh life is good.

One last goodness. I took the kids to the park the other day, and instead of just sitting and watching, I went and played with them. I sure love to hear them laugh! Kyle has a a deeper belly chuckle ... it's the best! Bekah giggles and squirms. She gives such good hugs. Then she will go on and on making up a story. I just took a moment to enjoy hearing my children laugh and felt grateful that I can. Those moments are good.
They make up for the next day, when I spent half the day yelling.

Fishers of fish

A couple weeks ago we went to the Utah State fair. The highlight was when the kids each got to fish in a pond and catch a fish (you can imagine how hungry those fish were if they still got caught even after my 2 yr old kept smacking his fishing pole down on the water). The kids loved it. Rob loved it. Remembering his own experiences with his dad, Rob likes to take the kids fishing and teach them all that father-stuff. It's great. most of the time.A few days after the State Fair, the kids come running in from my neighbor's (Charity), telling me how they had to go home because Charity was mad at Berlynn (her daughter). Well, come to find out, Charity found her daughter standing over the aquarium, holding their fish. Discovering this, her other daughter began a huge meltdown. This was the daughter who made them hold a big funeral the last time a fish died. Charity told me that she was surprised because Berlynn had never tried to touch the fish before. I wasn't surprised. I know which two little side kicks came up with the brilliant plan to go fishing! The same two that knew exactly when to quietly make a run for home.

my official Preschooler

Bekah started preschool! Twice a week, I drop her off for 3 hours at a preschool nearby in a woman's home. She seems to really like it. I now do double takes periodically at how much she is growing up. I've even heard her use the word "totally." She draws pictures of people with big round circles and lines coming out for legs and arms. Before I know it, she'll be too cool to give me a kiss before going to class. But for now, she is just my little girl, and I love it.

Why I hate Walmart

I am not a big fan of Walmart and I avoid shopping there when possible (for my own ethical reasons and I know you would probably find huge holes in my reasoning). But, I needed to buy a booster seat, soy yogurt, and get my oil changed. Where else can I get that done, and get my car vacuumed, too?

So, after checking my car in, I go buy my stuff. They haven't called my name, so I stall and hang out for 30 min. in that area with the arcades while Kyle pretends to drive a car. I finally head back, but they tell me they are still not done. Another 10 min. Okay. I let Kyle ride one of the tricycles around for another 30 min, waiting for my name to be called. So is my car done? Nope. When I show up to pay, the lady tries to ring me up, but it won't work. I wait another 10 min. (pretending to read a magazine so I stay calm and friendly). Then they figure out that they have never actually done the oil change. What!??!! I have been in the store almost 2 hours, and it still hasn't been done? It is not even a busy day! After the lady goes to the back for another 10 min, I have to go find her, because I am going to be late picking up kids from preschool if I stay 1 min. longer. GRRRR! This is the 2nd time something like this has happened, and I only shop there probably 5 times a year.

On the positive side, another lady waiting at the auto shop leaned over and informed me quietly that she was a secret shopper. Yeah, write that down.

a needle in a haystack

A total MIRACLE! I got home last night to find the diamond in my wedding ring was GONE! This was a diamond from my husband's grandma. I had just been playing volleyball at the church, and had remembered seeing it when I took my ring off to play. But a tip of one prong had broken, and it was now gone.

Long story short... a number of small miracles happened. I called a neighbor (at 10:45pm!) to get church keys, and although they didn't have keys that worked, they came over and watched our kids so both Rob and I could scour the gym floor, look in the hall, in the car, and parking lot. We were (miraculously) able to get keys, and after a long time searching, we found the diamond. The proverbial needle in a haystack.

It was really a miracle! I have to say, at one point I thought about how I would react if I didn't find it. I decided that I wouldn't cry or get really upset... after all, it was just a thing. But it is a relief to find it! We both knelt on the gym floor and said "Thank you!" before we went home.

Silver lining

We got home from our trip after midnight Thursday night, and what did we find? Blood pooling at the bottom of our fridge. A power outage had shorted the compressor in our (3 yr old) fridge while we were gone. Everything was very bad and VERY VERY smelly! I'm a nurse, and have seen a lot of gross stuff in my time, but it made me gag.

Anyway, by Friday afternoon, we had a new fridge! I found one locally that was only 1 1/2 yrs old, a much nicer fridge (they had just moved here & needed to get rid of it), and they threw in a nice (extra large) washer & dryer in all for $600.

Plus, as a couple extra gifts from heaven, my kids played quietly all day so I could make all of the necessary phone calls and arrangements. The weather was cool enough that we could leave windows open to air out the house (phew!). Then, just as we were walking out the door to go out to eat, a neighbor called us to come eat dinner at her house. I think that there was more than just a silver lining... maybe even some silver plating.

our Yellowtone trip

My husband always points out that there is a difference between a vacation and a trip. A vacation is where you go somewhere and relax... sleep in, sit by the pool, sleep some more. On a trip you go and do. I'll give you a wild guess which one I plan. My in-laws are probably chuckling already, remembering the time they took the family to Spain, and I, along with my travel books (and I was the only one who brought travel books), forced everyone up and out the door one morning with a list of places we were going to visit that day. Bless your hearts for putting up with me! Aren't you glad you did? I figure, if I am going to just sit in a hotel room or by the pool, I could have done that at home. Plus, my kids don't sleep in any way.
So, after finishing all of the sicknesses, we headed out for our family vacation... er... trip. We first stopped at Jackson Hole to visit Aunt Nene and Uncle Kevin. We had fun playing games with them while the kids slept, and then the next morning we went on a lovely little hike to find a geocache. These things are great! My husband loves the techno-side of using his GPS to find them. The kids bring a little toy that they can trade for another toy in the geocache. And I love walking in the beautiful parks where they are hidden. Afterwards, Uncle Kevin probably spent an hour doing the same magic tricks over and over for my kids. They just couldn't get enough! Note to the other uncles out there: You have some stiff competition! Who doesn't love a MAGIC UNCLE!

So Tuesday afternoon, after a quick stop at the Tetons, we rolled into Yellowstone. And we took off running. We went to so many places, saw so many things. We figured the kids wouldn't go to bed on time anyway, so we stayed out hiking until it got dark. Thank goodness we stayed in warm cabins, because it dropped down to the 20s at night. Occasionally it rained or once snowed, but that was usually when we were driving. We always wore jackets or coats and the kids wore hats, so we were always warm enough. We had such a great time! I think that the waterfalls were our favorite. That might be because Bekah hated the smell of sulfur. Rob (brilliantly) gave her sticks with sap on it to smell, so that helped some. Once we took a wrong turn on a hike and ended up hiking to "Solitary gyeser". It was supposed to erupt every 4-7 minutes, and just as we arrived, people were leaving and assured us the eruption was worth it. We waited... and waited. After a little while, "solitary gyeser" was not so picturesquely solitary, as a 3 year old decided that she had had enough. After 20 minutes without an eruption, it started to drizzle and we also decided we were done. Aahh well.
But, most of the time we had very happy campers! They both did great on hikes and got along soo well. We enjoyed the wildlife: bison, elk, wolf, birds, marmots, chipmunks, deer, and even a bear (seen from binoculars... very far away, but a bear nonetheless). We hiked out to Lost Lake to see a moose, but had no luck. It was a really nice hike, though.

One day we were out the door at 8 am and didn't get home until almost 9pm! That evening, we decided to go on one more hike down to see a waterfall. After we were hiking for a while, we came across big warning signs that said: "Warning, 328 step descent. Very difficult hike. DO NOT Continue unless..." It was already after 7, and I asked Rob if he thought we should really do this. After all, we had been hiking a lot and were pretty tired. Not to mention we have a 2 and 3 year old. Well Bekah, hearing this, piped in: "Let's have a prayer!" We then gathered together while she prayed that we could do the hike and be strong and not whine. What a good example! So off we went, down down down. It was pretty nerve wracking going down steep stairs, looking through the metal stairs straight down the mountainside, clutching a child's little hand. It was a beautiful view at the bottom. Then we turned and began the ascent, counting each step as we climbed it. And WOW! The kids did great! Bekah climbed almost all of those 328 steps, and there was not even a little whining... none! We stopped and rested regularly, but I was amazed that by the time we were done, it seemed easy; we weren't even winded! It reminded me how I need to pray more... how much help we miss out on just because we think we can do it alone, and thus fail to ask the Lord for his help. Thank you, Rebekah, for teaching us all.

Cute swimsuit

Okay, I have finally found a cute swimsuit. I mean I NEVER look good in a swimsuit! Even the day after I wore my new one, my husband randomly said (again), "you really looked good in that swimsuit!" An unrequested compliment! Come on, he's an engineer. The only time he even notices what I wear is when I ask for a compliment and make sure that he actually looks at me when he gives it. AMAZING! Plus, I got it on sale. Whoohoo!

So, anyone who reads this: go to www.modbeclothing.com/melanie
Look under their sale items at their swimsuits. They are actually modest and cute. Make sure and order the swimsuits one size smaller than the fitting size says you are, because the material stretches. That's what Melanie said, and it's true. Also, at checkout, put in the party code 355, and if there are over $300 worth of orders (I'm already half way there) you will get a refund of 10%. So order before they are gone. (Gosh, I'm shameless, aren't I! But seriously, my husband even liked it so much he said I could buy another one).

Hand Mouth Foot

This will probably gross out most of whoever reads this, but really, I can't help myself. I'm a nurse. I'm the type who goes to a bookstore and loves to read the medical books with the gory pictures. So I bribed my son to hold still and open his mouth so I could take pictures. Dang, I'm a horrible mother. Really, I can't help myself. It's just so cool!



Last week, my kids got hand foot mouth disease (also called herpangina when it is localized in their mouths). Saturday they spiked fevers and then complained that their mouth hurt. By 24 hours, I could see the little blisters in their mouths and soon Kyle even had them on his feet, hands, knees, and arms. Bekah didn't have it too bad, but poor Kyle. Which means poor mom and dad, too. Thank goodness that I work at a local Kidscare, so I ran to work and made a mix of lidocaine, benadryl, and maalox that I regularly used to swab their mouth to numb the pain. I think Kyle basically cried constantly for 3 days (and nights) straight. And that was with a regime of Motrin, Tylenol, and the mouth wash. What did people do before children's tylenol and motrin?

Of course, we were planning on leaving early Monday morning for a family vacation. I had made reservations for cabins in Yellowstone back in March and we had been preparing all week for the trip. Of course. I'm telling you, plan a family vacation and you automatically triple the chances that a kid will get sick. We once even stopped at the pediatricians ON THE WAY to the airport because of a sick kid. Miraculously (mostly due to the fact that school has started), we were able to change our reservations for the following week and just postpone the vacation one week. Anyway, lest anyone I know blame me for infecting their child, I kept my kids away from others for a week, and then the next we were up at Yellowstone. Yes, it was a difficult week.

On the bright side, because we were in town that week, we got to attend the reception and dinner of one of Rob's really good friends. This family is so amazing... the kind that are so nice and good, that you almost feel wicked around them. But they are so good and kind that you can't help but love them and want to be a better person. So Rob and I are going to really try and be better.

Another big plus: Kyle is done with his pacifier. Because of the blisters, he threw it across the room and called it a "bad pacie". That was easy... in a very hard way.

Why?

"Why is the clouds gray and not white?"
"Sometimes they get so big that they become darker."
"Why?"
"Because they are so thick that it is harder for the sun to pass through."
"Why?"
"Because the cloud is thick with water vapor. There is a storm coming, so the cloud is getting bigger and bigger. The sun can't go through all of the that thick water vapor, so it makes the cloud look darker"
"Why?"
"Because (followed by a lengthy explanation about thermodynamics)..."
"Why?"

At this point, the person answering gives me a look of desperation, "Does she ever stop saying 'why'?" "Nope."

I think it's always kind of funny when someone who has never had a 3 year old talks to my daughter. They keep answering those adorable "why's" over and over and over and over... Those who have had a 3 year old know the answer: You just stop answering.

Stupid book

I just read over 700 pages in about 27 hours (that includes time sleeping, watching kids, and working). Dang it. When I start a book, it's like I can't stop reading until I finish it. First I want to find out what happens and second, I need to finish it so I can go on with my life. It's a good thing that I'm a fast reader. It was a pretty good book, the last of the Eclipse series. I just should have never started reading it at 10 pm. Stupid book.

GNO

It's hard sometime as a mother to give yourself permission to just go have fun. Without kids. So, when a friend planned a Girls Night Out on a super busy week, I called my mom who said "Heck YES!" Thanks again Mom.

So 4 moms hit the concert scene, wearing clean shirts and makeup, so no stains from dirty hands or visible rings under our eyes. I'm not sure what it means, but when we asked a group of teens to take a picture of us, one of the boys not only jumped in our picture, but got a picture with his own camera. Hmm... I'm going to just pretend I'm flattered and not think about how we were twice his age.

But oh, it was SOOO FUN! Jack Johnson is such a great tranquilo performer, it was awesome. And while our husbands would have just stood there listening, the 4 of us danced the whole time, talked, and laughed. During one song, Jack Johnson had to stop halfway into his song due to laughter. He said that someone had just yelled, "I want my wife to have your baby!" Jack looked down into the audience and said, "Lady, I think you're lovely, but I think your husband is very drunk." Anyway, lots of fun. So here's to you, Concert Girls.

the Wedding

I know it was a while ago, but I do have to write about my brother's wedding. Congratulations Jared and Tonya! The wedding was beautiful, really beautiful! The reception was lovely. After the happy couple left and the guests had left, my family relaxed together in the Taj (our backyard little gazebo), lights out except for flickering chinese lanterns. Just quietly chatting and joking. The next morning, we all went to Cherry Hill together swimming. Last year, Bekah was always afraid of the big blue slide. You may remember earlier me mentioning her prayers for all kids to be brave on the blue slide. Well, she and her Daddy had a prayer before we left, and she LOVED that blue slide. We went over and over again, and she went on it all by herself. It was crazy watching this little 3 year old go down on a great big waterslide all by herself! I had this moment, with all my family gathered around me, that this was it... life doesn't get any better than this.

It was hard saying goodbye to Jared & Tonya, and then Josh, Valerie & kids. Gosh I love my family!

as it were a dream

It's a Sunday morning, we are eating banana pancakes and the kids are laughing and waving their silverware around (they are both intent on using a knife... like their mother:). A song comes on the iPod, and suddenly I go back. I am 22, single, living in the Colony at college. It is sunny, I am walking into my apartment, and I can see the mountains rise behind my building. They are so beautiful glowing from the sun, I can feel the exhilaration of just being alive. I know my roommates are waiting inside, dear friends whom I love. I can even smell the the crisp fall air outside my apartment! I get a lump as I realize that although it seems like yesterday, that is gone and I can never go back. Not that I want to exactly... my 2 year old leans over grinning and says, "Fank You Mommy Fow Pancakes!"

What is time? I can give no other explanation than Jacob's, "our lives passed as it were a dream." What moments do you go back to?

Choices, consequences, & prayers

I just had a great teaching moment! Bekah gets to take 3 books to bed, but only gets to keep them if she is quiet. Well, she soon started banging on the wall, and very sadly, lost a book. She threw a fit. No result... she still didn't have the book. So she announced that she was going to pray that I would give the book back, and got down on her knees. I could see the wheels in her head saying, "We pray to Heavenly Father when we can't find something, and we find it, so if I pray to get the book back, I'll get it." Unfortunately for her, that's not the way it works.

I knelt beside her, wrapped my arms around her, and we talked about what "consequences" mean. As a good parent, Heavenly Father won't change the consequences of what we choose; it was our choice. Bekah loves to choose. She loves the music to "My Turn on Earth", so I sang part of one song and explained what it meant about choices. Then we talked about what things we could pray about: being brave, feeling better when we do something bad, to be safe... That got her very excited to pray, and we were again on our knees for a long time. She prayed that she would be brave on the blue slide at Cherry Hill, that other 3 year olds would be safe on the climbing wall at the rec center, that she would feel brave watching the scary part of Sleeping Beauty... Anyway, it was heart-warming. She is actually upstairs praying again as I write.

Christina Franklin, DG

I come from a long pedigree of domestically-advanced women, one that would put even Martha to shame. My great grandmother cooked for ranch hands, no small feet when you think that she cooked 3 big meals a day on a wood-burning stove while she had small children! My grandmother ironed bed sheets (before irons were even electric. My own mother was a wonder: I remember her canning all sorts of stuff, baking, sewing our clothes, making jams, fruit leather... shoot, she even sewed my doll clothes. Phew, I'm tired just thinking about it.

Think of the pressure of being related to all of those Domestic Goddesses! So I naturally rebelled. In fact, I despised anything domestic. Instead of sewing doll clothes, I glue gunned. I didn't bake. I didn't scrapbook. I didn't iron. When I made something in young women's, I gave it to someone else. On our 2nd date, I turned to Rob and said, "Just so you know, I hate to cook. I can cook, but I don't like to. I just want you to know that from the beginning." An old friend just reminded me of a time when we both were making a list of goals. I actually made fun of her for putting "canning peaches" on her list. Very ironic.

Well, you've heard once Satan gets his toe in the door, he weazles his whole body in. The same for domesticity. Slowly, little by little, I have given in and have become more domestic, even embracing it. I make jam, I can, I try new recipes all the time, I make fruit leather, grape juice, and I've even done a little sewing. I have joined the ranks of my mother, grandmothers, great-grandmothers, and can put that sacred "DG" behind my name... Domestic Goddess. And I am proud!


But just for the record, I still never iron and I don't bake... I've never actually made cookies from scratch. Kind of proud of that, too.

Friends, Fruit, Family

I love summer time! Friends are home. Fruit is in season. Family visits. It's great.

I have a dear friend, well actually several dear friends, but one in particular. Charity Smith. She lives 2 doors down and both she and her daughter (Berlynn, who is Bekah's age) are home during the summer. So every day, my kids wake up and ask to go to Berlynn's house, and Berlynn wakes up and begs to come to ours. The kids just run back and forth from one house to another. Dress ups, swimming, trains, babies. It's the perfect neighbor! If I have to run somewhere, Charity urges me to leave the kids with her, and vice versa. Plus, the two of us get along really well. We are both a lot like each other's husbands, so we are obviously very compatible :) This morning she called to see if my kids could come and play because hers was a little ornery and needed friendly diversions. This was great, because I had already sent my kids back to bed for time out and it was only 8 am. (They had been up way to late singing & talking in their room last night). While they played very nicely together, I watched the kids while Charity did some stuff & then I got to run errands. We had lunch together and Charity and I did Yoga while Kyle napped and the girls played. We are even visiting teaching companions. We have gone to dinner together when both of our husbands are gone, gone to movies (with kids dressed up), gone hiking, swimming, biking. My favorite time was when we went to the Mayan a couple years ago. Her daughter used to undress whenever she got in water, and in the few seconds that it took for me to look away from the kids and wave to Charity as she pulled up with the car, I turned to find her daughter completely naked, trying to climb into the water fountain in front of the restaurant. Ahh! You can't beat memories like those! She is the best neighbor. We've had wonderful spiritual discussions, frustrations, and lots of laughs. It's sad that she will start teaching school in a couple weeks and tragic that they are trying to sell their house and move up north. Don't be surprised if I sound really depressed this winter.

With fruit in season, I have started domestically mooching. One friend let me come and pick raspberries, and so I made freezer jam. Another lady in our ward let me come and pick apricots. I made fruit leather with them. Never done that, and I find that I always have a big learning curve domestically. I put it on tinfoil. Big mistake. It took about 10 min. to make, about 2 hours to pull all the tinfoil of the fruit leather. I also picked cherries from a neighbor, but because they had worms, I always had to cut the cherries and pull out the worms before we ate. I still can't believe that I did that (Charity did it too, bless her, and even made us cherry pie. I think both our husbands were slightly grossed out), but the cherries were really good.

It has been WONDERFUL having so much family come visit. We have had a chance to see Rob's extended family again this week, Aunt Liz & kids, Sid & Steph, almost all of Bruce and Jeannies family are here for the summer, Brett, Wendy & family (my kids LOVE the cousins Rosey, Max, Chelsea, and Ashley), Grandma Bassett, Jannene & Kevin at their magic show last week... And of course I'm so excited for next week when all of my family arrives for the wedding. We love hanging out with family. Rob enjoyed golfing this Saturday with his uncles while I attended a bridal shower. I have to admit, it makes me really nervous to think about the possibility of moving in the future.

So for now, I will just enjoy this marvelous wonderful summer!

hopeless cause

There is nothing I can do. Except have her wear very long shirts. There is either a wedgy or a crack. It doesn't matter what she wears. One way or the other. Sigh.

A parent's dilema

Should I be more firm and strict? Should I relax? I should probably be more patient. As Bekah is getting older, her character is developing more. She is having a hard time with impulse control... you know the 3 yr. old thing... collapsing when she doesn't get her way or just grabbing what she wants. But it concerns me how I can best help her, help mold her and give her the tools and skills she needs. How? This is every parents' quandary.

Answers have come to me from two sources: one is my mother. I just spent the last hour talking with her. With experience in raising 5 kids (plus other kids who lived with us), she's good. But I really appreciate her teaching experience, working with a lot of different kids. She LOVES to teach and is always full of ideas. It is her passion and since it is definitely not mine, I get to just benefit from it. If anyone out there wants help trying to teach your child... call my mother.

My second source: even more all-knowing. I have heard about how God blesses mothers with inspiration, and I have felt it. We went to the temple this week (I love the temple!), and I felt that quiet whisper. Guidance. I may not be confident that I am doing everything right, but I at least know where to find the answers. If anyone out there wants help with pretty much anything ... pray.

p.s. Mom, if you are reading this, I give you my permission to leave a comment about ...I don't know... maybe how great a daughter I am or something :)

Just floating by

After living here for 3 years, we finally did it! And I guess it was fitting that it was on Pioneer day. We floated in the Great Salt Lake. And it is true... you float! We enjoyed a lovely ride on my dad's boat (I feel like I should wear my "cardi" and casually mention "the yacht") and then we all jumped in for a swim. Even the kids warmed up to it. A lovely holiday. Isn't life lovely.



We also went to the rodeo and had a good time. I happened to win the tickets, and you know we love free. Swimming in the Great Salt Lake, going to a rodeo... so western/pioneery isn't it? Now if I just say "moun-un" and "impor-un" and "Lay-un" I will be a true Utah-un.

Favorite Parenting Ideas

After I realized that we had gone a couple weeks without my kids brushing their teeth, I decided to do something. I made this chore chart to hang on their door handle, and it has worked SO well. One side is for the morning, and one for night. All I have to say is, "Look at the chore chart". So, per Valerie's request, here it is:


You just laminate it with both hard and soft lamination. The part about put away clothes also means put away toys. However, the very last job on the night time says, "Close eyes." It never works.

Idea #2: My daughter spills everything. She can have one small bite and there will be a stain down her shirt. UUGGHH! I can't get upset with her, since she inherited it; I can remember the first time I ever ate spaghetti without spilling on myself. I was in high school. So no cute little bib will cut it. My friend had this idea, and I love it. We just use old t-shirts or onesies that are already stained. Sometimes I'll cut off the sleaves or put a cut around the collar to make it easier to get on & off over clothes. They are nice and big! Now, if she can just stop dripping on her shorts...

Our comings and goings

Busy week! Sunday, we had dinner with all the Bassett family at Grandma's house. It was fun to see so many of the little cousins! It seems that all the relatives 4 and under are much more mellow children. On both sides of the family. My kids are always the ones running, marching, or dancing around while others sit cuddling on their parents laps. So "THANKS!" to all of those cousins, aunts and uncles who spend so much time running around with my kids. It warms my heart to see your love and energy. Plus it means that I don't have to run around the whole time.

Rob has enjoyed spending some time with his family this week. Monday night while I worked, Rob went out to eat with his dad, Jannene & Kevin, and Richie, Carolyn & family. Then Tuesday he was up early to go fishing with his dad and brother. Although they didn't catch much, I hear that they went to a beautiful spot. And it sound like they had some good talks together... quality guy talk: oil prices, techno stuff, and fishing. My bet is that they didn't talk about feelings or relationships once.

That night, I went to the American Idol concert with my mom & her neighbors. My parents are big fans, and after buying tickets, they were pretty bummed when my dad had to be out of town that night. So I got to go instead. Fun! And yes, David Archiletto was a cutie! Thanks Dad.

A lot of my time has been spent organizing the Woods Cross Summer Literacy Program. I think it is important to volunteer and give back to the community, but you can't always do that with little kids. Well, it's been busy but really fun. This week, we had a group come and do a Chinese dragon dance, which the kids loved. Plus, articles about the program have been in 2 local papers, so we have gotten a bunch of books donated. That means that we have been able to give kids both new and used books to take home. We have only one more week, and I have to confess, as fun as it has been, it will be nice to have a break. I have a list of projects that I want to do when it is done, plus we will start preparing for next years program.

I've got that stomach bug going around. Luckily, my kids have been playing WONDERFULLY together all morning, so I think I'm going back to bed.

Camping

I love camping. I love being up in the mountains, the stillness, the clean air, the crackle of the evening fire. One can sit by the warmth of the fire and just stare into the embers. I love being able to see the stars at night and hearing the wind rustle in the trees.

Camping with children is different. Packing takes a lot more effort. There is the porta-a-crib, blankies, diapers, blow-up Dora bed, toy fishing poles, fishies and bucket, extra clothes, bigger tent to fit us all, and heaven-forbid-you-forget-the-pacifier. You have to pick a site next to the latrine, which you visit at least twice in the first 20 minutes with your 3 yr old. Kids do not go to bed easily in a tent. Not at all. But they are sure up bright and early. Plus, the sleeping bag you planned to use is now being used by your daughter, so you spend most of the night awake and freezing, as well as awake, checking to make sure your children are not freezing.


We went camping on Friday night. Even though it wasn't much like pre-kid camping, we came back totally exhausted, very dirty, and with our car's bumper hanging in place with a zip-tie, I think it was a success. We roasted marshmallows, sang songs, and told stories. We went on a little hike where we spotted bees, different colored flowers, butterflies, and even got to climb over a big log. It was nice to be together.


One more thing that we did Sat. afternoon (after a recovery nap), we headed up to This is the Place Park, and enjoyed an afternoon of pioneer stuff. The kids did crafts, rode horses, played games, rode the train, and we all had lots of fun. That night, we washed the car, washed the kids, and thankfully collapsed into our own bed. Ahh...

Our guardian angel

Today during Primary, the lesson was about the light of Christ. Apparently, Bekah raised her hand and when called upon, announced, "Grandpa Bassett died." A couple of the adults came up to me later and offered their condolences. Thanks, but Grandpa Bassett died almost 7 years ago, long before Bekah was born.

Now I know this gets into super cheesy, but I have always felt like after his death, Grandpa Bassett was up in heaven preparing my kids. Once, when Rebekah was young, I showed her pictures of everyone from the Bassett reunion, trying to teach her everyone's name. Without prompting, she pointed out and named, "Grandpa Bassett." So her comment is probably just some random comment from a slightly ADHD child, but if not....

A child's prayer

Bekah spent last night with Gamma & Gamps (which she LOVED). Gamma and Bekah then met us at the park for the Literacy Program (which went well, amazingly, since several youth volunteers didn't show up). Afterwards, we had lunch at McD's, before heading home.

So tonight, this was Kyle's prayer: "Thankful for Bekah home safe. Thankful for Gamma and Bekah to go to McDonnals. Thankful Gamma come with us to McDonnals. Thankful Gamma and Bekah play at McDonnals...."

So thanks, Mom.

Percussions, Bangs, and Repercussions

There is not much that gets me more nostalgic than a hometown parade. Standing and cheering the veterans, swaying to the music of marching bands, or watching the children scramble for candy, we are all united in the celebration of the country we love. And the July 4th Kaysville Parade seems to me the epitome of that. Families gathered together, parades with nothing but home-grown: high school drill teams, Fruit Heights queen, local companies. Kids creep out almost to the middle of the road to catch the salt water taffies thrown, and everyone gears up for the huge water fight at the end. I almost got teary as the local high school band marched by, bouncing to the drum beat... it's like watching something from another era, an era when everyone is your neighbor and we all look out for each other. Plus, who doesn't like getting free stuff? We ended up with a ball, 2 stuffed animals, a t-shirt, a box of toothpick flags, 2 kids necklaces, ice pops (I accidentally pushed my own mother out of the way for those), and lots of candy. Never mind we'll probably throw most of the stuff away... it was FREE!

We spent the parade with the Gamma, Gamps, Jared, Tonya, Grandma & Grandpa Franklin, and Lorie (who just came in town). Wow! All that family just added to my sentimentality. That evening, we went to Uncle Bruce's to light fire works. The kids LOVED it! Between rounds, they would jump up and down excitedly yelling, "Bang!" and telling me all about the fireworks. The kids had so much fun, they were up until almost 11 pm. I think heaven will be like July 4th.

I'll tell you what will be like July 5th... maybe I won't. You all know what a very late bedtime does to a 2 yr old.

One more not-so-nice event was that I got in an accident. A couple of weeks ago, my mom dented in one side of my bumper driving to the Literacy Program. This week, after picking up books for the Literacy Program, I didn't notice the light changing, and banged up the other side of the bumper. As soon as it happened, I burst into tears, overcome with what could have happened to my children if another car hadn't managed to stop. Luckily, no one was hurt, there was little damage, and Rob was right there and took care of everything. Unluckily, it happened right in front of a cop so I also got my first ticket.

The lady who hit me asked Rob if it was his daughter driving. I'm not sure if I should be flattered.