I want to post about our "12 Days".  Lila lost her camera cord --it's gone again--hmmm. rassumfrassum!!!  I want to post a pic of the poem and then explain it all.  I promise we'll get this up in the next few days!  

Happy New Year to all--oh, and the Christmas Cards that I didn't send just might be Happy Ground Hogs Day or Valentine's Cards.  Please--don't give up on me.   

I guess I'll change my blog-look (or Lila will) in a few days.  The party's over.  OK, just a little bit of the "It's Over" blehs are starting to hit.  I love Christmas so much!  Everyone is so anxious and happy and hopeful.  It truly is a magical time.  I'm glad New Years comes so quick to lessen the "It's Over" blow.  We do have Amelia's wedding to look forward to, too.       :)

Our 12 Days of Christmas Elfins have been made known to us.  What fun!!!  Thanks for helping our Holiday be even merrier!  You did a super job!!  We love you!  

12 Days

I just want to say "THANKS" the people who are doing the "12 Days of Christmas" to/for us.  It's been really fun.  Last night the gift was good as usual, but they called instead of knocking (How does one make caller ID say "unavailable"?) and it was late, and they did a scarey/creepy voice in the phone at me.  They said to look on the porch.  I really was scared to look, but Peterman and I opened the door together---this is making me giggle now as I retell it, but I was scared about it last night.  How silly of me.  THANKs Again to the nice Christmas Elfins running around out there spreading Christmas goodness!   :)

Wicked Traffic

OK, so I keep hearing them say that there is a traffic problem in downtown Salt Lake.  It seems some "Wicked" ticket sales are the cause.  The lines are wrapped around both sides and around the block.   I know thou shalt not covet is a good motto to live by, but this is a hard one! (It's not the line I'm coveting--just the tickets!)  It would be so fun to take my family to the Theatre to see "Wicked" this spring.  It's just tooooooo much $.  I should enter a contest for tickets, and win them.  Oh, if it were only that easy!

Time is speeding by!!!!

Wow! That week went fast!  I love the fun parties and get togethers that happen a lot more during this time of year.  Our Ward had a "Polar Express" activity last Saturday, break the Fast on Sunday , RS "Women of the Christmas Story" on Tuesday, last night (my sis Jonna's 52nd Birthday) we finally decorated the tree that we've had up since at least the 1st of December....I've been scrambling around trying to "tie-up" loose ends of Christmas.  I need to finish the gifts that I need to send to Missouri, Vermont, and Maine.  Then I should start on my children's homemade gifts.  I really can't say what we are doing in case someone really reads this, and are tipped off on the surprises.

One sombering note:  a very good friend's father passed away yesterday.  It's so sad!  They had another loved one pass away in the last month and it postponed the sons Mission plan until the 17th of December.  Now said Missionary will be able to attend the funeral of his maternal Grandfather, and then enter the MTC ready to work. Their family has had so many hard trials all at once.  They are amazing and are doing okay, considering.  If anyone has extra prayers out there, send them the Parry family's way. 

They asked me to work in the Title One in-school tutoring program at Farrer Elementary.  I have been their "substitute".  One of the gals is moving to California.  I like the ladies who work in the program.  They truly care about the children, they help them, and want them to succeed.  

I was just listening to my favorite radio show (Bob Lonsberry. 570 KNRS. Weekdays, 5-9 a.m.)  A lady called in with a Holiday tip.  I want to share it with you.  This is a poem to help us in our Holiday purchasing so we don't "overdo" it.  For each person we should consider the following:

Something they want,

Something they need,

Something to wear,

Something to read.

I think that's a nice guideline, and I'm going to try to remember it.

Ok...I don't know if it's classified as stalking, but it might be close...umm, I have a confession.  I go out of my way just to drive by Jessica's beautifully done Christmas tree window.  It's truly breathtaking.  Her tree must be at least 10 feet tall and there's a mirror or picture on the far wall that reflects/projects out the thousands of lights on the south/inside side of the tree...see, do i sound like a stalker?  It's just so beautiful.  I can't stay away.  

Tax day has arrived--no wonder Jeff looked ill this morning

Merry Christmas to the Utah County Treasurer...NOT!  Okay--it is my own fault that our house tax payment of $40.77 shy of one grand wasn't prepaid at all this year.  I had them send me the coupons, but I failed to ever send them a penny... there have been other things that the mulah was needed for.  So we defer Christmas to the UT County Treasurer.  I hope the treasurer has fun. Honestly, I know, I know the taxes go to valid things like public education (for the most part) but please allow me this pity party--just for a bit.  Maybe it'll help me be more disciplined to turn SOMETHING in before next year during Christmas!  I just want to know why can't they "rob" us at some OTHER time of year?  URG!                      

I actually feel a tad better after venting.    

I think I'll go have a hot cocoa, after which I'll surely be in a much better mood.

Happy Birthday to Jeff!!!

Yesterday the gal in charge of "Christmas Choir" warm-ups, came a little earlier than usual.  I went over to her and asked if we could sing "Happy Birthday" to Jeff.  She said it would be fine.  We kept doing arpeggios, or whatever they are called, then she said, "Let's try this one and fill in the name: Jeff."  She proceeded to play the Happy Birthday song.  Jeff was Birthday serenaded at 7:05 a.m. in 4 part harmony.  It was enjoyable for all of us.  Jeff was puzzled.  He didn't realise I had talked to Fauneil, and arranged the event.  Pretty fun!

We gave him the balance of his presents at dinner--"Hamburgers in Mushroom soup" and mashed potatoes.  I gave him his lovely resized and polished wedding band at Tucano's.  I gave him a new orangeish-brown-with-burgandy-stripes sweater at the Sorensen's on Friday (Check out "Sanford & 'Sens" blog from 30 Nov, 2008).   Lila gave Jeff a surprise from iTunes: "I think we're all bozos on this bus" by The Firesign Theatre.  Dibs gave yet another installment of the comic book "Max and Pal, his dog." Dibs has been adding to the saga year after year--for sure on Birthdays, and sometimes for Christmas & Father's day.  The little gals took their showers without a fight, as a gift to Jeff.  Peterman wrote "Best Dad" in his best calligraphy penmanship on one of his Dominoes and awarded it to Jeff.  Jeff got new boots (made in America), a few new t-shirts, some new sheets, "Batteries not included" dvd, and some "Craisins" trail mix.  In case you were wondering---The "partridge in a pear tree" is busy this time of year or he would have gotten one of them, too. ;)   Our good friend Sara came over. She's so fun to be around, she keeps us laughing, and she's a great story teller.

We love Jeff so much!  He's a fantastic husband, a great provider, a wonderful Dad, a creative Mr. Fix-it, a treasured friend, a kilt maker & wearer, and genuinely a nice guy! Besos y abrazos!

oh so thankful

Wow---that week went fast!  It was great to have Jeff's  sister (Emi) and her family (Micah, Daniel & Phebe) in town.  We shared a lot of meals and fun times!  I wish other siblings lived close enough to see so often.  Jennifer & David live in Nephi, so we see them every month or so, but I long for a closer family relationship...that's where Ingrid & Norm and their family come into the picture....we love being around all of them, and are thankful to have them so close! 

It's crazy that tomorrow is 1 December.  Where did this past year go?  Yes, half the year I was a crazed American Idol addict, and then I became a Twilighter when AI finished....so there you have it. I've made several baby quilts this year. In the middle in there somewhere the Stake got realigned and I was without a calling, and then given the same one again....and then there was the whole Cub Scout fiasco.  And the Gingerbread festival & Stake/Ward council & Conferences... and Primary Programs to watch.  My wonderful parents and 2 of my fabulous brothers came to visit...a charming nephew got married... I subbed at school, and made a little money.... As I think about the year, I guess it has been long afterall... a long fast/fast long.  Weird, but oh so good.

I am so very Thankful to Heavenly Father who has put wonderful people in my life, in my path.  I've learned so much from them, and I am amazed at/by them!  

jeffs birthday date @ tucanos

his birthdays not till the 29th but it sure was yummy.

THANKS to Lila.  She's my "blog artist".  The other day she googled Gingerbread House Festival labels on blogger and found a really cute blog.  I asked her to change my page, yet again, and she did so quite easily.  She's fantastic!!! 

Last night it was Lila's turn to give the Family Night Lesson.  She taught about being Thankful. We have a list we're filling in of "I am Thankful for...".  She's way up there on the top of mine...and that's not merely because she changes my blog layouts.  She's amazing, she's a great chef, a caring oldest sis, and so helpful-- just to name a few things!!!!!   I love you Lila, Ma     :)

Happy b-day

Happy Birthday Jason...on the 14th, and Happy Birthday Jared...on the 16th.  It's weird that my "Little Brothers" are turning 38 and 40....yes, I said little brothers.  So that makes me REALLY OLD!!!!  I love those guys and hope they are happy and well!  Hugs Bros!

Gingerbread House Festival

Yahoo! It's finally here.  Today & Friday (1-9), and Saturday (10-6)  is the Gingerbread House Festival at Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, Utah.  It's so fun!  It's fun family times for not so much moolah!  Come have fun...see all of the cool and amazing houses made by professionals and regular folks, too...see the House that the Afterschool Art Class from Farrer Elementary School made...there are great entertainments acts set to perform, too... a cookie decorating corner...Eric Dowdle art...Gift Baskets...a Country Store by Tai Pan Trading company---something for everyone---and the proceeds go to Utah PTA and the Boy Scouts of America. Check out the site.  Hope to see you there.  HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!

first fill up.....

the receipt from the first fill up with the natural gas converter in our car. yay $6.38 for a full tank of gas.

Today's tangent

I opened "Waterford" this morning.  That means I unlocked the doors and started the computers for the Waterford pilot learning center that is set-up in the Bonneville Stake Center Family History lab.  I love Waterford!  Wacky learned to read through the program.  I used to open the center  2 or 3 times a week depending on what year it was.  Now that Googla is in school I don't have a regular shift.  It's kinda sad to be there without Wacky or Googla.  Googs is using the "Headsprout" computer program at Farrer Elementary.  It's good, a little bit different approach than Waterford, but still good.  Googs is ready to be reading.  She loves to sound out words.  I'm so happy for her!  This morning at scriptures she knew many of the words in her verse. It makes her happy! She wants to be able to read so she can really join in. Next we need to get her some shoes that are laced so she can learn to tie them.  Baby is growing up!!!  :) 

the morning after

Well my sister Jonna said it just the way I feel.  She said she's "hoping the thread that the Constitution is clinging to will be strong enough." 

Although I obviously would have preferred the Presidential Election  go a different way, I am happy the local elections turned out the way they did.   I do have confidence that locally we can make a difference.  It was nice to not have to listen to the drama of the "hanging chad".. :)  Okay, I am trying to look for positives.

funny

vote for cleverest costume goes to.........drum roll......... Nathanial & Calixta Ashby.

I didn't get to vote yet

Okay, who was I kidding...how did I entertain the idea of actually getting to the polls EARLY.  I ended up staying up ALL night Thursday, doing the snail-paced version of sewing.  After I took the gals to school I laid down to sleep, and for the first 20 minutes I slept, then I woke up every 15 minutes, afraid I had missed Googla's Party...The phone rang and that ended my try at a nap.  I guess I ran on 45 minutes sleep until 1:30 when Farrer Elementary was out.  I hibernated for 2 hours or so on the front room sofa.  That was some GOOD sleeping..deep sleep...ahhhh!  I again thought about voting then, but was not able to.  Lila is such a wonderful help.  When she's around I can nap and she'll "cover for me".  Some of the pumpkins got carved sometime in the day...

I have no other choice: I'll brave the rain and crowds tomorrow and vote then.  I'm really anxious for this to be over, so we can get back to real life again...I just hope it won't fall all to pieces.

little flashes of a fun filled halloween

yum mint 3 musketeers & sugar babies 

goo, lila, dib

the trick or treaters 

-lila

I'm voting early tomorrow for McCain

Well.  I should be sewing more on the "Penelope" coat, but my thoughts aren't allowing me to sit still...I'm going to vote tomorrow--early.  I know people are caught up in the romanticism of CHANGE... WE NEED CHANGE.  I agree things need to change, but I'm convinced that the one who professes to be a type of "Messiah of Change" (Obama) wants our country to CHANGE too much.  He flat out wants Socialism.  Redistribution of wealth---since when is it fair to work by the sweat of ones brow and because one makes enough money for ones needs and more, that that excess be taken from one and given to someone who doesn't have the same amount of $--most likely someone who isn't a citizen or someone who isn't interested in working to take care of himself. People who earn $ need to be able to have the free agency to use their earned $ how they see fit.  They need to be able to choose if they want to share, with whom, and they even need to be able to have the freedom to NOT share.  So that's one thing that bugs me...

Don't even get me started on the topic of Abortion.  THAT is reason enough to vote against Obama's party which happens to agree, in it's basic platform, with Abortion...

Yes, I'm voting for McCain.  Obama is "hip and cool" and no doubt a nice guy.  He seems swell.  But does that qualify him for the most important/influential position in the world?  McCain actually has spent his life in the service of our country.  Obama has served 4 years as a Senator--2 of them hardly count because he's been on the campaign trail for 2 years....

My words aren't words of a learned person, but I know what is right "for me and my house"...I'll vote in accordance with that.  That is what is so wonderful about our country--freedom to choose...may we never be fooled into squandering away the precious fought-for-freedom, because someone seems "hip and cool".

another pic of the wanted coat

Back Home

I'm back Home after my stint as a sub for a lady who had an operation and 2 others that had vacation.  I need to make a Penelope coat (purple with red trim and fabulous buttons) for Wacki for Halloween.  We gave her the fabric way back at the end of August for Birthday...but then I began "subbing".  I think I'm going to go over to Church to cut this out.  I was pondering the idea of lying the fabric on the edge of the stage, and then pinning it & cutting it out without a near-death-to-my-back experience.  Hmmm.  I have keys.  The Mommies group will be there in 1  1/2 hours.  That just might be enough time to get it all cut out.  Better get out of here.  I just realized that I might be in charge of Wacki's halloween party at school.  I'd better contact her teacher today!  I'll be helping with Googla's party.  Thankfully they are supposed to be at different times.   Better go.  

Have a great lovely autumn day!

this past week

It has been a very Happy Birthday week to me!   

On the 16th my VT came to wish me a Happy bday, and on the 17th brought over a fantastically scrumptious Apple pie--in a pie plate that is mine to keep--I feel spoiled!

One of the gals at school gave me a cute bag of "lotions and potions".  So nice ! 

At the Chili Cookoff, on the 18th, I had many people who wished me a Happy early B-day. 

My B-day is really on the 19th and I have had a greeting of some sort every day since!  People are so nice to me!  I really need it AND appreciate it!!!!! 

Jeff gave me a FABULOUS stainless steel-used-to-be-at-school fridge.  It was broken so it couldn't be sold off at the school surplus auction/sales.  Jeff takes the "it can't be fixed challenge" almost daily and 99.9% of the time it IS fixable...that is the case with my fridge.  Jeff is amazing and I'm still pinching myself to try and understand how I am so lucky to have him as my husband!  He's a tremendous blessing in my life! THANKS!!!!

The kids made a great sign for me that they all worked on. I need to post photos so you can see how nice & fun it was.  Gracias!

Momma & Daddy phoned--I love to hear their voices!!! 

Jenny Sanford called.  We got to talk a few short minutes.  I miss her!!!! ( Thanks for the WalMart  $ card--I bought a much needed belt.) 

My big Sis Jan facebook-wished me a happy b-day.  :) ... so did lots of my friends!.. and Jessica & Shellie Happy Blogged me.  :) 

My sis Jolene phoned me.  We had a fun time.  I got to tease my bro-in-law for being ancient, he is after all 3 whole days older than I am.

 A neighbor borrowed our plunger one morning a few weeks ago.  She brought us a THANK YOU Sweet Potato pie. Yummmm!

Kanani, Alice, and Keiko gave me Chocolate and a nice card.  :)

One of the gals I used to visit teach gave me some Chocolate Chip Cookies.

One of the nice Grandma's in our ward walked 3 blocks to my house to give me a  B-day card because I wasn't in our ward on Sunday (I was at the 8th Ward, Ward conference) 

My dear friend brought me a beautiful autumn colored bouquet with a sweet note. :)

I got a very nice phone call from a friend who couldn't drive to see me because she's just had eye surgery.

My sister Jonna emailed and then phoned me.  I wish I could see all of my family again soon!

 

My John Flankin Boy (my brother) sent me a dvd of our Winnetonka High School Marching Band.  SOOO Fun!  He also sent 2 Cherry Mashes, and a cd/dvd storage pack thingy. Yahoooo!

My bro-in-law called--that was a treat! 

Even last night my friend Jane asked if I had had a good b-day.

So, this has been an incredible week--I'm so thankful for everyone who took a little extra time to smile at me and well-wish me.  You've encouraged me to be a kinder person!  Thanks for being so nice to me!  Really Thanks!                           

Happy EARLY Birthday to me

TOday the gals in "Title One" sang to me for my upcoming Birthday.  Lila and Dollie planned a party for me.  They all brought treats to share.  Somehow Lila make a fabulous cake and brought it to school without me knowing.  I shared my party with Cathy.  We welcomed her back after her recuperation.  These past few days I've been filling-in for Nanette, as she is in New York--it's unfair!  Next week I'll sub for Jennifer.  She's even more unfair...she's "unfairer"!!!  She's going to Hawaii--the Big Island.  I really do hope she has fun and that she and her husband will be kept safe.   I wish safety and well being for Nanette and her husband, too.  

THANKS, GRACIAS..and all that Jazz.  It was a fun surprise!  It was a good day!

Temple map

So here is a map my Bro sent me. You should be able to click on it to enlarge it--if I did it right.  It has the KC Temple site, and Momma & Daddy's house on the same map. It turns out it's about 5 miles from home.  SO COOL!!!!  ... So close to home, and it should be "up and running" in 3 years.  I'm so amazed, even still.

KC Temple 10 minutes from Home!!!!!

They announced WHERE the KC Temple will be.  Shoal Creek...in Clay County...It's 10 minutes from home...near what we lovingly nicknamed Buffalo Park.  We used to go to what is really named "Hodge Park" for Family Picnics, and to watch the buffalos roam.  It's a beautiful green grassy rolling hills and wooded area.  It's in my home Stake boundaries.  I'm so amazed and happy.  It really will be easy for my folks to get to the Temple.  What a wonderful long-awaited answer to prayers.  Momma said years ago when they chose to live in Clay County they thought they were moving there to be near Daddy's work at the airport---but now she realizes it's because they wanted to be near the Temple.  :)   I can hardly wait to go home--I'm hoping the gas prices keep going down so we can!

Temple in KC!!! :)

General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began yesterday morning.  It's so wonderful to listen to the counsel of the Lord's servants.   Prophet Monson spoke of Temple dedications and was pleased to announce 5 new Temple sites.  I was taking notes.  I put down the tally and started to write down the names. 1-Calgary AB, 2-Cordoba, Argentina, 3- greater Kansas City....my hand shot up in affirmation, I yelled YES!!! and then I began to sob...I grew up in Greater KC, in Clay County, MO....my Home.  I missed hearing #4--(Philadelphia, PA)  5- Rome, Italy.  I wished I could've been in my home ward in Liberty, MO to be there as the Prophet announced the Temple in KC....What was the reaction?  Did they shout and sob, too?  My children kept asking if I was ok.  I said, "I'm so happy, can't you tell?"  I AM happy!  I am so anxious to find out exactly WHERE in Greater Kansas City the Temple will be placed.  There are so many Church History sites near KC....Liberty, Independence, Adam-ondi-Ahman, Far West...those parcels of land have been procurred long since many years, and have been maintained by the Church for all of those years...  My folks served several years in the St. Louis, MO Temple as Ordinace workers.  I am so pleased that this Temple will be so much closer to them.  I truly am happy!  Finally, finally there will be a Temple in the New Jerusalem.  What a glorious time to be alive!!!!!!!!

HB to Dibs

Happy Seventeenth Birthday to our little Dibs!  You are such a peacemaker and an essential part of our family!  I love you and am thankful you are my son.  I look back and see how fast time has gone...I look forward and realize time will only continue to pick up momentum...and you'll be in the MTC in 2 years...wah!  But that time will speed by too...cross my fingers. Thank you for being so wonderful!  Happy Birthday!

homecoming on the roof

dinner set up
them eating
us eating (me and sarah, jeff is taking the picture)

Dibs with 2 of his friends planned a surprize dinner for the 3 gals they took to Homecoming. Jeff got it all set up on the roof at Provo HS.  After the kids continued on, to the Dance, Jeff and I began tidying up the table.  We heard the ceramics teacher in the parking lot.  We invited Sarah to join us, up on the roof.  What a nice time.  Sarah had to get back to the Dance to chaperone, and we picked up the party and went home.  

Goo's pink/green Birthday photo shoot

-Lila

Happy Birthday to Googlah!  What a sweet Baby!!!  We're so glad you're in our family...you truly complete us.  Thank you for coming to this world on Grandma Jude's Birthday six years ago--(bright and early enough so Papi didn't have to drive the school bus that day--and he could be there for your birth.)  You have a special birthday buddy.  I love you Baby Girl!

Arg!

Well, I guess I shouldn't have posted about my "free time".  I no longer have it.  I was asked to help fill-in at Farrer Elementary while one of the "Title One" ladies is recuperating from surgery.  Last week was my first week.  I'll probably be needed for another month.  It'll be nice to hopefully pay down some medical bills with the income.  I'm at the same school as our 2 youngest daughters.  I even get to be the "vigilante" on lunch recess duty, so I see the gals playing with their friends after lunch.  I like seeing them!  This is a crazy busy time for Church stuff, too.  There are Ward Conferences and Ward Councils to attend, as well as training things going on... and rechartering.  LOTS of busy stuff!!!!!  Oh, and I'm needing to find performers for holiday related family entertainment for the Gingerbread Festival in November at Thanksgiving Point...but RIGHT NOW it's time for getting lunches made & people ready for school....plug my nose and dive in!

the stare down

does this remind you of any one?

It's Tuesday

Lots going on, but I just really want to sleep!  It's so strange that I come home from walking the gals to school and I can sleep, or read.  I really should be getting more of a responsible schedule going, like Monday: mopping, Tuesday: laundry, and so on.  I'm just about ready to do that, but for today I guess I'm still a bit lazy...

I have even skipped talk radio for a few days.  It's soo nice to sleep naps, since I seem to not be sleeping well at night.

Monday blues on Tuesday

This morning was really hard!  Googs was sad and insistent that she wouldn't be going to school today.  I felt my heart break as I wanted to LET her stay with me.  I feel super guilty for not Home Schooling her, as I did her siblings.  I really can't be thinking about this so much, it's painful.  I walked to school with Wacky & Googla.  We gave hugs to Wacky and then strolled to the Kindergarten rooms.  Mrs. Bevan was so happy to see my Baby.  Googs looked up at me and I gave her a hug, and encouraged her to go into her classroom.  I let Mrs. Bevan know that Googla hadn't wanted to come today.  She'll watch to see if Googs is ok. 

It's nice that I could walk home with Bethany, and then Sariah came to help me can tomatoes...we put up 7 quarts.  :)  

Lila was so good to email me--she's pretty intune with my feelings.  Thanks!!!

But, I miss my babies...that part went too fast !!!!  Has anyone ever heard of "postpartum blues" nearly six years late?

Wacky is ten

We love our "Wacky".  She's a joy for our family!!  It's amazing that she is already 10.  Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday Sweet Wacky, Happy Birthday to you! WOW! ... a decade ... double digits ...

He's my Brother!

Happy, Happy Birthday John Dear , 

Happy days will come to you all year, 

If I had one wish, then it would be, 

a Happy, Happy Birthday to You from me!!!! 

I love You muchly Bro!!!!  

Have a great day & a super next year!!!           XxxxxOOooXxOxoo

Middle School

Peterman petitioned and won the petition to attend Middle School.  The first day was an Orientation.  He loved it.  He got to eat lunch with his best friends even though he didn't have class with any of them.  Then reality hit hard on the 2nd day.  They haven't given him a locker yet--so he feels left out, and he doesn't have lunch with the friends he had hoped for (The first day was a fluke as far as lunch was concerned).  His very good friend so far hasn't even been able to ride the bus with him yet.  He was quite emotional about it all last night.  7th grade is SUCH a hard time to begin with.  I keep praying today will be better for him!  I'm going to, at least, call up there and see if we can fix the locker situation.

Well, Googla & I just went to Googla's Kindergarten Placement test.  Grueling---for me.  She said it was fun.  I think it's a test they give AFTER Kindergarten to see if they are ready for 1st grade.  For some reason Googs still has difficulty with the ABC's.  She gets it one day and then the next it's like she has to relearn it.  I know that children all learn at their own pace.  I wish I would know how to say things so she'd understand, and that things would stick.  It was hard sitting there and have her look confused and embarrassed, and not be able to help her.  The teacher was very nice and patient, and kept complimenting her.  I'm not ready to have her away from me, but the Kindergarten teachers at Farrer are SOOOOO nice, I know she'll do fine.  

the cut

1.before  2.after

-lila

jeff & whitney

at the reception i let "googs" use the camera she loved it so some of the pictures are hers. oh and dads from the phone. -lila

Yesterday my Jeff and I went to the LDS Bountiful Temple.  Our nephew Jeffrey Merrill married his sweet best friend Whitney Nowland.  We are so happy for them!  I became pretty emotional in the Temple.  I kept wishing my deceased Sister Jill could be there to see her son's wedding.  You know, I know she WAS there--I just wanted to see her.  I  felt her there, though. 

Jeff & Whitney have had a crazy-busy last week or so.  As nephew Jeff said, "I'm looking forward to just being Us."  They've travelled to and from Canada for an Open House. (Something I'm seeing more and more- Open Houses before the actual weddings.)  They got married, did the Luncheon & the Reception.  Today they travel to the east coast to Hilton Head to be "just them" for a few days, until another Reception.  They'll be back in UT next Sunday.  It's so fun for us that they'll live close to us.

It's Over

I decided to try & finish the book on August 13th (an important date in the story, in my estimation) before I went to sleep.  Mission accomplished. (Actually I finished @12:19--just after midnight--but it was still the 13th to me, because I hadn't gone to sleep yet.)  I love/loved this series!!!

I sorta get bummed when I'm done with a book/series, especially when I have given so much time to it. (I read the all four books in a week and a day--all 2,592 glorious pages.)  I came to understand and love the characters...Edward & Bella are so right for each other.  I was won over by Jacob finally--after HOW many pages?!  He doesn't annoy me anymore.  I adore Alice.  It's weird, but she reminds me of someone I know, so maybe I won't have to miss her character.  I will probably reread the books.   I enjoyed the "Twilight Tales"---it's been fun to talk about the book with so many friends....It's almost like "world-wide book club". 

As a Mom I need to put in a disclaimer:  These books are NOT for your pre-teen crowd! My soon to be 10 year old is not allowed to read these, so if any of you SEE her reading them--stop her, and call me!  I'm not sure I'm comfortable knowing my 14 year old read these...but she was reading--that's good, right?

I have a copy of  "the Host"  on loan from a friend.  I think I'll read it--to see if I like Stephenie's writing beyond the Twilight Tales...or maybe I should try to read the Harry Potter books?  Shocker--I couldn't get into JKRowling's style of writing. I know for sure I'll be reading Mary Higgins Clark's latest book.  My  turn finally came up at the Library.   :D

: )

The Boy is back in town

Actually, the boy never left town.  He was just up the street @ BYU Startalk Chinese Camp--kinda quarintined...kept isolated...but now HE'S HOME!!!! Hallelujah!  I missed him so much, but I tried to not think about it, because it hurts to miss someone.  I kept looking forward to the day when he'd be back.  He seems taller and his hair is definitely longer.  He's such a good person and brings much peace and calm to our home.  I love him lots and lots and it's so great to have him back!

historical colors?

beginning Breaking Dawn

Well, I've just started "Breaking Dawn". I guess Jacob is ok. I still like Edward best. Alice is adorable! I really like Charlie... I think he must remind me of my own father? he kinda reminds me of Shawn's dad on Pysch? I'll be ready to chat more about the series in a few days!

Another subject: I didn't realize it would bother me to not be able to watch the Olympics. we decided to not have cable, way back in January. I only miss it during Conference weekend and now for the Olympics.

Jeff & I get to see Dib tomorrow...and then Dib COMES HOME on Wednesday. Yahoo!!!!

Life continues--I need to read some more.

Ok...this is going to be quick.  I DID clean my house!  Hurrah!  I felt no guilt as I read yesterday afternoon...and the house still looks decent for a more peaceful Sunday.  I'll probably finish "Eclipse" tonight.  I'm not letting myself read more of it until AFTER Church.  

Dibs called last night.  :D  He has one more test, and lots more preparing for the Tuesday night end of Chinese Camp Banquet.  He will be playing guitar for a class song, and he's in a skit too, among other things. 

Right now I need to further prepare the Primary lesson I'll be teaching today.  It's a good one .  I love Primary!

a small break from Stephenie

So, I'm on page 252 of "Eclipse".  Our house is really needing a deep cleaning, like I did about a month ago.  I'm going to TRY and not read on, when I get to the end of this chapter so I can clean the house.  hmmm...              Lila tells me that there's a point in "Breaking Dawn" when the story isn't going fast enough.  It's like you keep reading, but the story doesn't move, then suddenly around page 250 it picks up, and takes off, full steam ahead.  

Right now in "Eclipse" I'm at the campfire on the beach listening to the legends of the werewolves  (shouldn't it be spelled : warewolf, wherewolf, or wearwolf?  That's how we say it..not whurrwolf--like it's spelled.) Anyway...back to a few more pages of book, then CLEANING!!!!  Then I won't feel guilty reading the rest of the day, and on into "Showtunes Saturday Night".

Jeff has been the past few days going to SLC for the Outdoors Retailers Show.  He has a BLAST!!!  He always comes home with incredible freebies.  This time he worked in the UtiliKilt Booth 3 days.  He has 2 new kilts.  I like the chocolate one the best.

Finally

Okay, after much prodding I've succumbed.  I've been bitten!  I've now read "Twilight" and I'm 150 pages from the end of "New Moon".  I, like Bella thus far in my reading, like Edward better than Jacob.  Jacob seems a tad conceited...he's in the way as far as I'm concerned.  I do feel a little sorry for him, though.  I need to get back to the book.  I don't want any spoilers.  Thanks, any way...we'll talk when I'm done.  :D

Food Co-op

We belong to a food co-op.  It's really a great deal.  Check it out.  It's easy to join, and basically doesn't cost anything to join, just a few service hours a month.  Many of you probably are already giving over the number of service hours requested as you help out at Church or Scouts or PTA.  Look into this.  The more people who take advantage of these deals, the better deals we'll all get.  We get fresh food, and fresh meats without the overhead costs of a store.  The last day to order for August is on the 8th.  The food comes on the 23rd. Have a happy Tuesday. 

Sunday

The past few days have been an emotional roller coaster for me.  A viewing, a Baptism, a Funeral, Testimony meeting, Relief Society...there have been many tears shed...sad, happy, sad, sad & happy, sad & happy... I'm drained, and actually pretty thirsty.  But I feel that I've been fed.  My heart is happy, just a little tender today.

more today

Jeff & I went to a funeral today.  The wife of one of Jeff's co-workers finally died after 8 or so years of battling cancer.  When we got home the kids were talking on the phone.  They were talking to Dib.  He was able to call and talk for a bit.  How Fun!!!  Tonight they were going to have a Chinese market.  He was preparing to sell caricatures.  They were to do their bartering and trading in Chinese.  I hope it was as fun as he imagined.

On another note.  Has anyone else noticed the stinky/foul air?  There is something growing and foaming in the gutter/old irrigation ditch.  Is this happening in the entire neighborhood?  Is it a by-product of dead animals or  stench related to WHAT? Is there a drug house dumping their gunk in the ditch?  Urp!  I wish the irrigation ditch could run again.  We had 'squitos, but not the stench!!! 

Tomorrow is Kristen's 27th Birthday.   We love her and Carlos!  They are so cool!!

ps--Shannon read "Breaking Dawn" in 11 1/2 hours.  Amber in around 13 1/2 hours....Lila & Clarence keep plugging on.  Good for them!

The day dawn is breaking

Last night Ingrid filled her van with 7 teenagers and went in search of "Breaking Dawn".  Actually it was much quicker and less painful than they had anticipated.  The plan changed several times as far as the transportation, but "Wallyworld" was always the place to go because it was less expensive.  She's an ingenious woman, so in keeping with that, she called Smith's before they began their trek.  There were only 6 in line, at that time.  They drove 5 minutes away and Lila was #17 in line. They ended up paying a few dollars more, but all agreed it was worth it for much less hassle!!   Clarence told me when they got home.  The book went on sale @ midnight.  They were home fifteen minutes later.  Record time--Yahoo!!!! They were able to get reading right away...that of course was the goal!  Ingrid went home, but the 7 gals are still in our yurt....reading.  Shannon will probably finish first.  Taylor & Amber are close behind.  Lila is taking her time.  I'm not sure where Michelle is in her reading.  Clarence & her friend from Provo HS Flags, ended up sleeping pretty quickly.  They were tuckered out from marching all day (8 a.m. 'til 4 p.m. ....they had that practice schedule all week.)  Dear Ann showed up around 2.  She had bracelet #507 from Borders.  She made her FABULOUS double chocolate brownies with cream cheese frosting, topped with red raspberries.  She skeedaddled home rather quickly as she was 2 hours behind in reading compared to the yurt gals.  I'm in the kitchen, now that "dawn has broken" I hear the gals chatting.  Just checked on them...they are having a grand time....cheezits & dr. pepper are helping someone stay awake....oh, to be young again....

Hey there lonely girl

So I sat down to the computer thinking that this was the time Dibs wrote last week. I was remembering a song from my childhood called ,"Hey there lonely girl". Before I knew it, a letter appeared from him, just when I was about to have a pity party. Here's part of the letter.  Here goes:

 hey what's up,

  i'm having so much fun at camp. the memorizing isn't as bad because it's pretty much habit for me. i actually want to come back next year, because i'm learning so much. there are a lot of fun things we do every day, from tai chi to calligraphy to "dragon ball z" fighting with matt to painting fans and of course learning a whole bunch. but of course i can't wait until i'm back. i miss you all a whole bunch. i'll be back home before you know it. wo ai ni. 

 I'm so glad he wrote!!!  This time next week it'll be just a few more days before he comes home. Hurrah!

 

I miss Dib...everyone does!

Last night Wacky had a friend spend the night.  They decided to watch "August Rush".  It's such a good movie.  I cry always when I watch it.  Last night it made me miss our guitarist Dib.  Yesterday I saw John and missed Dib.  Andy came over to say "Hi" to Dib...and I missed him again.  When he goes on his mission in 2 years, for 2 years, I just might be a basket case... Yesterday Googla said she had had a dream that her big brother was home.  She came downstairs and was sad that it had just been a dream.  We'll get through this!!!  He'll be home in 2 weeks from today.  Hurrah!

a boy and his doggy

So we had hot chocolate and marshmallows for Family Home Evening dessert. That was not such a great idea.  It's 90 degrees out.  bleck!  ...but who can turn down ANY form of chocolate?

wacky and dog

-LiLa

Ricky, or was it Rhonda? Raccoon

Yesterday Rachel came over.  When she was talking to us I noticed, from the front window, a car slowing down and rolling their window down.  I said , "What are they looking at?"  Mirielle and Rach looked out the window and said, "It's a porcupine."  I thought they were joking.  About a half hour later Sam from across the street said, "Did you know you have a raccoon in your yard? Actually, it's under your driveway."  Jeff and Peterman came back around then.  Jeff trapped the critter in the irrigation ditch that runs under the driveway.  He put a square 5 gallon bucket on one side (with 2 clunks of concrete in it), and a grill with another clunk of cement holding it in place....voila!  One non porcupine-raccoon trapped under the driveway.  

That was last night, after Animal control hours.  The helpful dispatch gal basically said, "Well you have 2 options: 1-untrap the animal or B-wait until the morning."  I didn't want the varmint running around, so we kept it trapped until around 2 today when I could deal with it.  The story is way longer than I'm telling...."...that's uh, Unbe-liev-a-ble."(a quote from one of my favorite movies)  1 can of tuna in a trap and 30 minutes, was all it took to get the animal to walk out from under the driveway into said trap.  The animal was cute, but grunted/hissed at us. It is in Raccoon Heaven now.  Officer Friendly said this is #7 Raccoon of the day, along with 4 skunks, and 1 fence-impaled deer.  Lots of critters are no longer running around the city.

He wrote -- Hurrah!

What a wonderful treat to get an email from Dib.  It was short & sweet, and oh so welcome.  

I hope he's ok if I share this from his letter:

"I'm studying really hard and it kind of hurts my head, but I'm fine. I have to memorize and pass off a dialogue every day. On top of that there is a lot of homework, but I get to play my guitar if my brain isn't completely numb by free time! I'm having a lot of fun..."

We're glad he gets to have this experience, no matter how much we miss each other.  He sounds really busy!  That's good!!! 

Pizza Night Morning

Yep, I always am a little happier on Fridays when I wake because I already know what I'm fixing for dinner.  I love to make it.  All my family will eat my homemade pizza.  They even act like they like it.  :D

Yesterday was Pioneer Day... A Utah State Holiday.  We remember and celebrate what the Pioneers did for us.  We went to a park in Provo where there are real life Pioneer cabins.  It was fun to tour through them and go to the Pioneer museum, too.  I remember every summer as a youngster in Kansas City, MO we'd celebrate Pioneer Day by dressing like Pioneers for Primary.  My teachers would tell great stories and we'd sing songs.  

Today we MIGHT get to get an email from Dib. I hope he's having a great time @ Chinese Camp.  We're praying for him & sorely miss him, but we're glad he gets to have this adventure.

pioneer picture

with mondays post

Kids say the darnedest things!

"I was born on my birthday!"  That's what Googla proclaimed.  We all snickered.  My sis Jill apparently made the same discovery when she was Googla's age...or so I was told.    Speaking of cute and silly things, a few weeks ago Dib was in the kitchen and we were all discussing the features of the new iphone.  Someone said that they had heard the iphone could type what one says.  Dib said, "Gee, imagine how fast you could text with that!"  I stopped, took a breath and I just started laughing...I began to cry for laughing so much...maybe it's not that funny, but if you had to talk to the phone so it could text for you, wouldn't you do just as well by TALKING to the person?  It just struck me as awfully funny! 

So as Susan one of the Startalk "Chinese Camp" Staff put it:  Your child is now in an "MTC Wannabe Program" or "EFY for Nerds".  Everyone laughed!  I took Dib to the Orientation mtg.  It was kinda like the MTC--we had a nice mtg. that included a dvd-show of things done last year, intro to all of the Staff, and rules review, too.  Then they said, "Parents you are welcomed to leave, students stay."  It was time for hugs, and good-byes.  The Orientation was only missing formal attire and prayers.  I know he'll have a great time and we'll do ok at home, too...but I'll miss our natural born peacemaker.  

Dib's roommate is from Sandy, UT and goes to Brighton High.  There is a guy from Provo High attending, too.  It looks like Dib's Chinese teacher from PHS is one of the instructors.   Added bonus:  he's going to learn Chinese marshall arts.

 In 3 weeks and 2 days I'll go get him and he probably won't want to come home, nor speak English...and we'll be happy  :) 

ps--The cute little daf DIED in the middle of the intersection right in front of  "Creamery on 9th East"....Dib opened the door and "hoofed it" around the corner.  I had a feeling that would happen.  It's awful to be in a red light holding up the green-light-people. Thankfully it all worked out ok!!!

she's back

Friday

Last night it was really quiet.  

Lila was home.

Dib spent the night in the yurt.  Friend John stayed over.

Clarence was @ Camp.

Peterman spent the night @ Chandler's.

Wacky & Googla spent the night @ Michaela & Alexis' .  Two sister teams.   :)

Jeff & I went to Ann's, along with Lila, Dib, and John to watch the season premieres of MONK & Psych.  Too bad Ann wasn't there.  She's a gem for letting us watch it!  Dib kinda fell asleep...Lila said it's par for his TV watching there.  Crazy boy !

template tantrum

Ok...I've always wondered how is it (?) that Eliza changes her blog "look" every so often (where does she get the templates?), and of course her blog is always cute/fresh/inviting!  I was "linking around" and found a cool site that just might be the answer to my query.  We'll see if it works with my Mac.  :D

I need to add that at the cool site there are some not so cool things...proceed with caution.

 

girls camp goodbye

Last night for Family Home Evening Googla gave the lesson.  Apparently she had had this activity 2 weeks in a row in Primary.  She was excited about it, and wanted to share.  The lesson was on "Blessings".  She had a bowl full of water and an empty cup.  We all had spoons.  We dipped into the bowl and filled our spoons, then emptied the water into the cup.  We shared a blessing as we emptied our spoons into the cup.  We kept going around the circle until the cup was full, and even running over.  It took a while to fill the cup.  It was nice to hear the children's comments.  Some were silly, others serious... Thankful for: Parents who feed me, Primary Children's Med. Center, a good dentist, music, Jesus & the Atonement, Family, shoes, the Gospel, cottage cheese, books (Clarence said that-hurrah!), the scriptures, our bodies...on and on... It was a nice little lesson.  Dibs played his guitar, he does a great job. (We're going to miss him BIG TIME.  Next week he goes to Chinese camp at BYU--for three weeks.) It felt like we should've been around the campfire.  It's different to sing hymns with guitar instead of piano.  I kept feeling like we should break out into a rousing chorus of "Kumbaya" or something.  

    

Lila is supposed to try walking without the crutches today.  She's anxious to get walking, but scared she'll mess something up.  She really doesn't want to have an operation--and end up on crutches for 6 more weeks.  Next Tuesday we'll find out if she's "good to go" or if she needs the foot surgery...we're a little nervous about it all.

Clarence goes to Girls Camp in a few hours and comes back Saturday a.m.  I need to braid her hair.  Cornrows?  I'll try.

:D

ps--sometime in the wee hours of the morning (actually it was 1:48 a.m.) Clarence, Lila, & Peterman finished reading "Twilight".  They've been doing  a slumber party/read-a-thon the last few nights.  Cool.  After camp they're starting on "New Moon".  Until then Lila said she and Wacky were going to read Harry Potter 1, by the same technique...I love to have my children reading, but should I worry that they are "into" wizards and vampires? 

They're home sorta

Hurrah!

My boys are finally back home...except however, they're not all home right now.  Life goes on after Scout Camp. Peterman was invited to go to the Owlz Baseball game, and Dib is at a friends' house.  A bunch of friends are watching "Ferris Bueller" on  Clear play. Sounds fun. My Jeff is finally trying to relax.  He's had a long, but fun week.  I think he's relieved the Camp is over.  It's so nice to have them all back!!!  Wacky & Googla are having a hard time staying in bed...thirsty, hungry, bored...sound familiar? Lila & Clarence are reading,"Twilight" out loud.  Lila figured if they read 80 pages a day, they'll make it through the trilogy before the 4th book comes out.  We all love to read so much, it's hard to believe that Clarence doesn't care for it so much. Lila is trying to win her over to reading.  I hope it works, it'll make school so much easier for her if she could like reading better.  Any ideas out there?  I'm always open for suggestions.  They are enjoying the reading tonight, so that's good!  Now Jeff and I are enjoying "Showtunes Saturday Night".  It's really fun to guess the shows, tunes, singers... we'll do so as we wait for the boys to come home again.   :D

Friday, freaky

So, in the night/this morning @ 2:30 or so Clarence came up to get me.  Wacky was regurgitating in her bed.  Joy!!! Enough said!!!  This morning/now she's doing fine so I'm hoping it was just a fluke.  I am feeling queasy, but it might just be the subject matter. 

It's weird to not have the Sanford boys/men around--they're at their respective Scout Camps.  I know they should be having fun, I hope they ARE!  It's been ok here, but we miss our men.  This single parenting (even if it's just for 1 week) is really NOT easy!!! Googla has had enough of just girls around, me too! 

After I helped  Wacky, I decided to read some.  I eventually turned out the light.  Five minutes later  at about 3:20 a.m. (I checked the clock) I heard what sounded like gunshot.  It startled me and I got out of bed to look out the window.  Do cars still do the backfire thing?  I hope everything in our wonderful neighborhood is ok!!!  It was real and had nothing to do with the book I'm reading...I love mysteries in print, because I can usually figure things out, but the real life mysteries are a bit more difficult.

red rodents

Okay...anyone who really knows me, knows I am disgusted by rodents. (Too many real life confrontations!!!!) In fact I'm repulsed by mice and I'm afraid of them, but I saw this pic and I'm rethinking my stance. These are cute...however the thought of actually eating them, as they are in the form of a mouse, is a bit repulsive ...strawberries, almonds, cheese, mini chocolate chips, red licorice---they're just fine on their own.

Love @ Home in Provo

I want to put some photos of when Momma & Daddy, John, and Jared were here.  Lila is going to be in Nephi tonight.  I'm trying to remember her instructions.  I want one of the mosaic things really, but I'll be lucky if I get single pics up.  Here goes!  It was so nice to have them visit, and so hard to have them leave!!! It was harder than it's ever been--I'm a bawl baby.  I just don't know when we'll get to see each other again...  The gas prices are so ridiculous!!!

I guess Lila will need to coach me on the mosaic pic thing again.

Thankful!

This morning I received a quote from LDS Gems.  It hit home hard.  It's very good, so I'm sharing it:

"Gratitude is a divine principle:
"'Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things.' (D&C 59:7.)
"This scripture means that we express thankfulness for what happens, not only for the good things in life but also for the opposition and challenges of life that add to our experience and faith. We put our lives in His hands, realizing that all that transpires will be for our experience.

"When in prayer we say, 'Thy will be done,' we are really expressing faith and gratitude and acknowledging that we will accept whatever happens in our lives. 

"That we may feel true gratitude for the goodness of God for all the blessings that have been given to us and express those feelings of thankfulness in prayer to our Heavenly Father, is my prayer."  ----- Robert D. Hales    Ensign, May 1992