Musings of a Tired Mommy

2012-01-30T08:07:00.000-08:00

Did any one else participate in the Elf on the Shelf phenomenon? Normally I wouldn't have even know/given a second thought to something like this, but when a friend gave us our elf, I knew that I had to try and make an effort with him. Thank goodness for a little bit of creativity and a healthy access to Pinterest.

Our first task was to name him. That proved to be a fatal error on my part. So, our elf very nicely told us his name after the first night. So, this is Charlie and it was very fun to have him in our house. Charlie was a pretty tame elf compared to some of the others that I saw, but I'm sure he'll pull some pranks next year.

When Charlie had managed to get used to the house, and its surroundings, he did manage to find a dragon, a sword and what is missing is actually the dragon book he was reading when the kids found him the next day.

Charlie was kind enough to help me decorate the tree, leaving enough for the kids to do, of course. He was also smart enough to make sure all of my nice decorations were the ones he put up. He's very considerate that way.

Charlie took a try at being a lion tamer. They all responded very well, don't you think?

Charlie's last night (which actually made Caleb extremly sad and mopy for a good part of the day. He took a lot of pictures of Charlie so he could remember him. It was really cute.) Charlie decided to have a snow ball fight - with cotton balls. He even recruited some toys to fight for him....

... and against him. If you look closely enough, some of them have actually been knocked down by the 'snowballs.'

We put the kids in one room so that Charlie wasn't playing favorite. He also managed to paint their noses red, just like Rudolph.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-24T10:16:00.000-08:00

I have been a bit awol this last month. Sorry about that, things have been crazy around our house. Nothing really major, just a lot going on. I have been in the kid's classroom a lot, helping out there and working a little bit more then I thought I would have been.

I hope that this finds you happy, healthy and ready to go into 2012! Our computer promptly died, just as I was going to sit down and get the above card made and ready to print. It took us about 2 weeks to get a new one, thereby making it impossible to get myself organized enough to get it printed. So may you all have a Merry Christmas, and Exciting New Year and an Amazing 2012. I am looking forward to a new year, starting up somethings that have fallen by the wayside and working on new things as well.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

2011-11-18T07:44:00.001-08:00

Last night was the premier of Breaking Dawn. So a few of us (13) got together to go and see it. We were able to secure tickets to the "midnight" showing at 10:30 last night. But, any good opening deserves a good party. So, the lovely Janae very happily hosted a Pre-Movie party for everyone who was able to come. It was really well done, lots of black, white and red. I have to say, she went all out and did an amazing job. After the party it was off to the movie. Of course, we had to have our moment with the 3-D movie "poster". Lots of girls sporting something twilightish, I wore my fangs and eyes and all in all we had a great time. Thanks to Kira and Janae for an awesome evening, can we do this again, say in 8 months?

This is me all Vamp-ed up!

Blushing Bellas... very yummy and red!

The books, the actors... a reason to show up

Love this display of veggies by Dorienne. Veggie dish in honor of the "vegetarian" vampires.

Mushroom Ravioli. For the uninitiated, this was the first meal Bella had with Edward on their I-Just-Saved-You-And-Would-Like-To-Spend-More-Time-With-You date.

Kiss-ey picture and lovely gifts decorating the room.

Jacob had to be at the party as well. Kira even made some "Puppy Chow" in his honor and to recognize the team Jacob crew.

Love the dolls and that Janae borrowed them from some family members.

Why are you covered in feathers Erin? Looking hot, as usual.

Amy went a little more subtle on the twilight representation. I'll let you figure it out. (She had to tell me, but it's awesome).

Bree's fascinator for Kira. Loooove it!

Who just eats normal cupcakes at a party? Ours bleed when you bite into them. Awesome job, as always Erin. Love Pintrest!

Kim, you're awesome! And Edward's shiny! I'd kiss him too.

This is the only picture I had with Janae. Her shirt says Edward's bride. Loved the whole get-up

Managed to get a smile out of Andrea, who is one of the team Jacob crowd. Thanks for representing the other side of the coin!

So glad that Simone was able to get work sorted out so she could come! It's so fun to see you! And I'd consider biting you....

I wasn't sure how much sugar Erin was on, but she was craaaazy. In a good way. This is why you go to the movie with fanatics. Their energy and excitement is contagious. You can't help but be excited WITH them.

Oh Amy, so sultry. Steve's a lucky guy.

I'll kiss you Edward.

Craaazy.

Seriously, besides the heckling guy that decided to join a theatre mostly packed with women on opening night, the movie was awesome. It was also awesome when Janea yelled back to him, "Go home!" He was an idiot, trying to ruin the nice wedding scene at the beginning. I feared if the heckling continued, he may not have made it out alive. Justin Bieber may have purple ninjas, but the Twi-Hards have vampires and werewolves.... yeah.
Now I have Kira trying to get me to read the Hunger Games before the movie comes out. I may try again just to get it over with, cause I know that she isn't going to give up on me in that regard. Thanks again ladies and to my dear hubby who was willing to let me go out several nights this week in preparation of last night!

Ozzie comes to our House

2011-11-09T13:10:00.000-08:00

Kyrie was able to bring home the class mascot, Ozzie the Dragon for the weekend. Ozzie is supposed to do some activities with your family for the weekend, take pictures and then record what we did. At first I was worried that we really didn't have anything fun to do with Ozzie, it was a pretty tame weekend. But we made it work. And on a side note, I love Instagram. It's an app from the iTunes store with all sorts of great filters. I'm hooked.
Anyway, here is our little "write up" that Kyrie shared with the class.

Cirque du Soleil

2011-10-23T15:46:00.000-07:00

First off, I think I checked the spelling of that. Clark and I first saw a show in New York, mostly because his original plan fell through. So, off to Zarkana we went. I think that Cirque du Soleil has a little bit of mystical quality to it, it's not hard to be worried about what the show is going to be like. But I have to say that we loved it! There were some amazing acrobatics, of course, but a couple of other acts that were intriguing as well. So, when I found out that it was coming to town, of course we had to get tickets. And a show is so much better with friends! We had 3 other couple join us, Kira and her hubby, The R family and my brother and his wife. It was spectacular! And a little chilly and wet outside. But, that aside, there is something amazing about watching a trapeze act right above you. And we truly were in the big top. Ovo rocked, with the bug theme, the giant egg that was being carried around and the music. Clark and my favourite act was the jumping grasshoppers. They were the trampoline act and it's crazy the things that they did. All in all, a fantastic night and I am happy to say that we will probably become Cirque du Soleil regulars!

Kyrie's Birthday Party

2011-10-23T15:40:00.000-07:00

For Kyrie's birthday this year, she wanted to go to Heritage Park. I told her that would mean that she could only invite a couple of friends because it would cost a little bit more. She picked her 2 very good friends from Pre-School the year before. And we happily invited the boys, and those in my family that could come. Love going to Heritage Park with my immediate and extended family! We just have so much fun and it was really a great birthday party! We even took more time then I originally thought it was going to take, totally making me late for the Relief Society Broadcast! Happy Birthday Little Miss!

Sometimes the best place to contain the masses, involved a room with a door... and bars.

Kyrie and her two friends!

Going on the Caterpillar, Aiden wanted to ride solo and was thrilled that he was tall enough to do so.

Little Man was also happy that he was tall enough to ride!

The 3 Ladies

We just picked up these weird people along the way. Or maybe, we're related to them. Can't remember.

It's also called the Kissing Ride.

The advantage to having your birthday close-ish to Halloween... Glow-in-the-Dark fangs!

First Day of School

2011-09-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

The boys headed back to school before Kyrie... she had staggered entry. I have such mixed feelings about going back to school. I love that the kids have something to do, that they learn and that they get to see old friends. I really don't love getting up early, making lunches and homework. Oh well, just make sure that we do lots of fun things or nothing at all on days off.

Caleb's got a sweet pose down.

Not sure what Aiden is up to here.

It's sunny and I'm taking a picture, I know. I bought Caleb a soccer ball that he could take to school so that he could play with friends and maybe make some new ones as well.

2 days later, it was Miss Kyrie's turn. She was so excited! I'm glad that she has the same teacher as the boys. I'm a little bit of a creature of habit, and I like knowing who they have.

Enoch was a little disappointed that he wasn't going to school too. But I did make sure that he got his own Buzz Lightyear lunchbox that I filled with snacks for him to have on our big errand day.

Caleb's Baptism

2011-09-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

I am in catch up mode, but I should be all caught up by the next post. Here's come pictures from Caleb's baptism. It was really nice that he was able to get baptized the same day as one of his cousins. Due to some hiccups (missing underwear, clothes that were too large/small) I had to turn around and get things from the house. I was a lotta bit frazzled by the time I got there, but a friend at least helped out with some pictures for us! Thanks Lisa. And a big thanks to all of the friends and family that showed up in support.

Friends

Cousins (all on my side)

Caleb's buddy who has since moved to Texas. We were thrilled that he was able to make it since he moved the next week!

Movies, Travel and Birthdays

2011-08-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately due to a funeral, we weren't able to go to my family reunion. That did mean, that we were able to go to Movie in the Park. Rio facing our beach and lake! Caleb was happy to participate in the games, and the prizes that were offered!

Mr. W, showing his horse bouncing moves!

Our spot with 3 other families!

Caleb showing some hula hoop skills none of us knew he had!

We went to Clark's grandma's funeral on the weekend, and I didn't pull the camera out. And then for fun, my mom, sister, boyfriend, kids and I headed to Cardston on the Monday after to check out the temple!

Caleb's the budding photographer.

And we celebrated Enoch's 3rd birthday! He was so excited to be having his birthday party, especially after watching the older boys have theirs.

His favourite toy - Hulk Smash Monster Truck!

And it rained that night and we got a great view of a huge rainbow. Happy Birthday little man. We're really glad to have you as a part of our family!

More Summer Stuff.

2011-08-28T17:22:00.000-07:00

Some more from our summer. The week after we got back from Montana, we "helped" entertain my youngest sister and her man friend as we showed him around Calgary and area. First on the list: Banff (of course!) We found these gardens in the town, called the Cascade Gardens. I had actually never been to them before. I mean, with the Candy and Christmas store, are there other things in Banff? The garden had a lot of gazebos.

A really beautiful bridge.

The bridge even came with some grouchy kids to pose for me. Isn't that nice of the town of Banff?

Some lovely benches and lots of flowers!

This is the government that is along the gardens. Honestly, I do wish we had more brick buildings like this one. I love the grays and browns in the brick as apposed to the red brick. Not that I don't love red brick. Cause I do.

Banff Springs Hotel. We even met the liaison for the hotel, a nice guy in a kilt. He even gave us a little history about his outfit. It actually got the kids attention for 10 seconds. After that, we did hit the candy and Christmas stores. Not really any pictures of that due to child wrangling. But, we got sugar and some really great decorations that I let the kids pick out. I buy them one every year and put it in a box for when they move out. So, check that off my list.

My poor car got a lot of mileage. The next day we were off to Drumheller! And for some reason, my oldest has decided that he would really like to take pictures, so here we are.

And of course if one gets to take a picture, the others do too. #2 took this one, which is pretty good actually.

#4 loves dinos! And having his picture taken! Need I say more?

We've been here enough to know what's next. The kids know when we hit "the bubbles" that we are that much closer to the dino bones and statues! And frankly, the bubbles are cool.

#3 taking a turn. No, I didn't do anything to blur her out. It's all her, baby!

Montana Living... here we come!

2011-08-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

As we do every year, we headed down to Montana for a few weeks. It's always fun to see family, spend time in the lake and just enjoy the summer that is before us. We were even blessed with enough sunshine to more then make up for the last 2 years! As always, a running tally of the things that we did.

The Boys kicking back and trying to enjoy the tube ride. Aiden was brave this year and actually got on the tube! He actually went a lot! I don't think that I had any pictures, but Enoch also went on the tube a fair bit this year.

This is what happens when the tube gets flipped hard enough. Not to mention that Caleb was fully clothed when that happened, ripping a pair of jeans. Not mentioning that. One bit.

Caleb taking the swan/face plant dive off of the dock. The kids did a lot more swimming this year, which I was really happy with.

Double Tubes with cousins!

We had a great view of these wild flowers the 2 weeks we were there. My father-in-law had them mixed in with the grass seed and we all agreed that it was an excellent idea!

Diving not your style? How about cannonball?

My brother-in-law wiping out on the air ski. If you can't get up on the air ski, you'd better be ready to pull out some fantastical wipe-outs instead.

Feeding the ducks and geese at the Woodland Park. They weren't nearly as aggressive as they have been in years past. Perhaps people stopped feeding them and this generation doesn't know that people exist for feeding? We'll never know.

Clark and 2 of the boys on the jet ski. They spent a lot of time looking for turtles, eagles, fish, etc on the jet ski in the more quiet (if that's at all possible) part of the lake. Secretly, I think Clark was just trying to get some quiet time as best he could.

My sister-in-law, her niece and Caleb. I spared the niece the more entertaining pictures of her face as they hit some sharp turns. Fun to look at.

Another past-time for Clark to find zen: fishing. He had to coax Enoch down to actually "catch" the fish. But, he's happy that he went!

Wake Boarding ala Caleb

Clark

Random picture... what's this?

My father-in-law and one of the younger granddaughters

Cousins!

Best Friends and Cousins... and Kyrie's closest thing to a sister.

There was a lot of Kayaking this year, which was awesome!

Caleb getting fancy with the skis.

My first attempt at wake boarding... this is me getting up just before I face-planted!

Yeah.

3 cousins close in age, there's another group like this. I'm excited to see these kids grow up and start playing together.

Lip Sync/Dance on the dock.

Getting some air on the tube. As always, love being in Montana, and seeing family. I'm really fortunate that I get along with Clark's family and I'm glad for all of the fun we have.

New York 2011

2011-07-18T17:22:00.000-07:00

So, Clark and I decided that every 5 years (or so), we should go on a trip together, just the two of us. Our first trip was to Las Vegas (not my fav) and so this year, we went to New York, New York. My parents very nicely watched all 4 kids for us (my dad took a week off to help my mom.) I found direct flights from Calgary to Newark, New Jersey (thanks WestJet!) It was busy, crazy and loads of fun. While I don't mind the hussle and bustle of a major city, I don't know if I could wander around it with 4 little kids. Anyway, here's some pictures from our trip.

Waiting for the train to take us from Newark to New York.

Our Sister-in-Law told us to take "interesting" pictures of New York. She totally meant something like this, right?

A GIGANTIC Tortoise skeleton at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). Only complaint about this museum? They should have done a better job playing up the Night at the Museum stuff. There were tons of kids wandering around asking about the movie. Seriously, they could be raking in the moola!

Speaking of the movie. This was the only thing from the movie that we found... and there was a line up for people to get pictures with it! It was here, at the AMNH, that I was also brought to the sad truth: Boys have not changed in thousands of years, over all cultures. Basically, as Clark put it, when man figured out how to draw/carve, they carved something.... you think about it, and make your guesses. And it's not the Tiki Head.

This was sitting outside the AMNH, advertising a new exhibit that is coming. No, not about war. Actually, this little beauty (can't you see yourself driving the kids to the park in this?) is used to chase tornadoes!

This is the stage where we saw Shakespeare in the park, in Central Park! No photos were allowed, of course, but I figured a quick shot of the stage wouldn't hurt. Good part? The tickets were free! Better part? We still got in standing in the Stand-by line. Best part? Look at the seats we got! All in all a good evening spent. We saw Alls Well that Ends Well, one I actually hadn't see before. They even did a great job simulating cannon fire in the background (there's a pond behind the stage.)

Kristen in Times Square. Obviously not on a weekend, but surprisingly on July 4th Monday. There weren't a lot of people until later in the day.

Who wouldn't want to kiss Captain Jack Sparrow? Even if he was only made out of Lego? Better yet, why wouldn't you go visit the 4 floor Toys R us in Times Square?

Where's Kristen? In Grand Central Station awaiting the arrival of a very good roommate and friend! I understand that, but where is she?

Look at what we found! We were wandering around Time Square when we saw a dude wearing a centurion helmet and a T-Shirt that said Volcanoes are exploding in Times Square. We were going to ignore him when he heard him say that you could get some money off with the coupon he had if we went to both the Pompeii and Harry Potter exhibit. We were sold. We met up with one of my roommates from Ricks, Cherie and her brood and wandered through some of the costumes and props from the Harry Potter movies. (We went to Pompeii the next day). It was awesome and the last leg of the exhibits North American tour.

Need I say more? Found this on the dumpster of our stop on the Subway.

I have a love for Pret a Manger (Ready to eat) from my 2 trips to London. The food is good and it's always fresh! What they don't sell that day, goes to the homeless instead of the dumpster. Can't go wrong either way I say. Have to say I was ecstatic when we found one.

We saw this at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met). Can you guess what it is? I couldn't either, had to have someone tell me.

Clark and Lady Liberty. Mental note for those who have New York trips in their future... The Statue of Liberty is on a pedestal which sits on top of Fort Wood. To go inside Fort Wood, the Pedestal and/or up to the crown, you need a ticket. The catch? You need to book it at least 2 weeks in advance. The museum is in Fort Wood, so you won't even be able to see it without getting a ticket. Lets you know how impressed I was when we figured that out.

Yankees Game. In the Bronx. Yes, we did get out of Manhattan. The game was entertaining, I'm not a baseball fan, frankly, I find it boring. But it's always fun to hear the real fans lose it over things.

Yankee Stadium only gets an F on one account. They made me throw out 2 metal water bottles. No real reason, I could toss them or go across the street and store them for $10. Seriously! So, we went in water bottle-less. Guess what I bought inside from the Yankee store, only because I was worried we wouldn't find a place with water bottles? Yeah a METAL water bottle!

On our way to the Top of the Rock (the Rockefeller Center), 67 floors up! For someone with height "issues", I did really well and didn't panic once. I also didn't look over the edge, get too close to the edge, stay near the closest I got for very long. But I can say I did make it up.

Clark only had a couple of things on his list to see or do, and this was one of them. We found the fire hall that the Ghostbusters was filmed at. Good timing too, because we've heard that it may be on the list to shut down due to cut-backs. If my understanding is correct, this particular hall was the first ones to respond to the 9/11 attacks.

And to end off, who doesn't love a car flying out of a building? Thanks for the visit!

Canada Day

2011-07-18T14:39:00.000-07:00

Every year for Canada Day, we head out to Airdrie for the Canada Day Parade. While I love the excitement and floats involved in a much larger city's parade, there's just that hometown feeling still to the Airdrie one. There are still people who throw candy and hand out things, so the kids have a really great time. Happy 144th Canada!

There was a little bit of a lull at the very beginning and the Mounties took advantage of it and wandered around and talked to everyone. Caleb was more then willing to jump up for a picture!

Great thing about parades: the kids for the most part, sit and watch. Something they aren't inclined to do most of the time.

Where there's a mascot, Caleb will follow. (And Kyrie run away, panicking.)

Hello Happy Family!

Doesn't this look like a good picture for a Remax ad?

Summer's Almost Here!

2011-06-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

For me, summer was truly here when school was over. I'm down one kid and have two more to go. But, as we prepare for a busy summer, here's a couple of pictures to tide you over.

Two words: Chip Coma

One of my marigolds. :)

Summer is Around the Corner

2011-06-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

Summer for me begins to feel like it's getting closer (instead of forever away) May long weekend. It's the time that everyone starts to take care of the yard that was hidden all winter long. The gardens start to get dug into and we all start to think long and hard about hiding the winter gear until winter again.
This May long weekend, we went down to the new Cabin to help out building a new playground for the kids. Now, I'm not really a shopper by nature, but there's something about this:

That makes me smile and think about the bargains that I will be able to find. There is also something about the selection that is different then what everyone is wearing around here. You also can't beat a sale in the US stores. It's incredible.

Here's the trickiest part of the whole playground. This slide actually proved to be more work then all three guys thought. I'm just glad that they were able to finish it up so that the kids can play outside, close to supervision. And in the background, yes, we are that close to the lake.

If the sun is out, it must be warm, right? The kids all braved the cooler water to have a water fight. I'm just glad that they weren't too adventurous so that I didn't have to get too far into the water. I'm also glad that there were some great stones to sit on and watch.

We lucked out that weekend, with very little rain until Sunday night. But, the great thing about a shower during sunset: some great rainbows. I couldn't make the whole rainbow fit in the picture, but it was awesome!

Now that May has ended...

2011-06-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

I seem to have the worst luck loading things up to Blogger.(It's taken me 3 days to load up pictures.) Anyway, April was completely and utterly crazy. It felt like I went from event to event to event. Don't get me wrong, I love being busy, but it felt like a bit much. So much so, that my house suffered more then it usually does.

Easter, 2 Grandma Birthday parties a weekend apart, that was just the beginning.

Clark threw me a surprise party for my birthday in conjunction with the royal wedding! I honestly had no idea what was going on. Thanks to him and my very good friend Kira, I didn't suspect a thing. Everyone came dressed up in honor of Will and Kate's wedding. Very fun!

I was also able to head down to Arizona with 15 other ladies! Crazy, tired, fun, loud, sun, shopping. Just a few words to describe how it went. 4 days with just a bunch of ladies. It was fun to hang out with those that I don't normally do things with and get to know a couple of the ladies a bit better! While some dedicated pool bunnies, I mostly hit the stores, sprinkling the sun in between. There were some great stores that I haven't been to before, or in a really long time. Thanks to Val for such a great weekend!

On the way there. Blue, Pink & a new dress. Hello Kira!

What I do while suntanning.

Crazy fun, a 5.5hour delay, finally brought us home at 4:30 in the morning. That was definitely something I would try again.

Decorating is a slow process...

2011-04-14T13:29:00.000-07:00

At least for me it is. I haven't totally figured out what I like, what I want in my house. I have figured out what I don't like, which you would think would narrow things down. Sort of. (wince)

But I have known for a long time that I need more storage. Can't put everything in its place when you don't have a place for it. So, I have been eyeballing hutches for several months now. I thought that I would try craigslist or kijiji and by something previously enjoyed and then just paint it to suit what I want. I found a couple, my dear money-conscious husband (who I adore and am happy that he keeps me in check) would do a fabulous job of talking me out purchasing them. We just needed to wait. Love that phrase. And, admittedly, I was a bit chicken to go to random person's house and look at these things solo. So, round and round we would go.

Well, thanks to the wonders of the Internet, I found a couple of display cabinets that I really loved from Ikea. So, cowards excuses aside, I found someone with a truck, went to Ikea and got some new display cabinets. So the Saturday that Clark got home from yet another trip, we put up the cabinets and some curtain rods! I will have this house decorated - in time to move!

And, in typical Calgary fashion, which drives a good, dear friend of mine batty, it snowed again last night. A lot. For some reason, that does not deter my kids at all. At least I managed to get boots on them?

An Organized Moment

2011-04-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

As you may well remember, I decided to grow a garden last year. And it did well. See here for a little reminder. Well, to save on some costs and to stretch myself a little more, I have decided to start several different plants from seed. Obviously with our fabulous weather (insert sarcasm here), there are some that need to be started early.

And with that little bit of knowledge, I have actually started some early. I have a healthy batch of pumpkins, peppers (3 varieties), some herbs and some cherry tomatoes. I am waiting for my watermelon to decide that growing is a good hobby. In the next little bit, I'm going to add a little bit of zucchini and cucumber. Now, I just need to figure out where I'm going to put all of these little seedlings. (I'm running out of window sills.) I am also happy to report that my children (more importantly, the 2 year old) have also managed to leave them mostly alone. They are very happy to come and check out the progress and offer to help water them. My plants have also not drowned in "love", aka water.

We are also on Spring Break. Last year we went to California. I've decided that that was really awesome as we planned NOTHING this year. There's a couple events already planned for later in the year and so the money and vacation time just wasn't there. Yeah. 2 weeks off, at the house in Calgary weather (read: snow, wind with an occasional sprinkling of sun, more as a tease), has not been that fun. There have been moments, mostly errands that I have to get done. Needless to say, I have already figured out what we are going to do next year for Spring Break. But, here's some pictures on a nice day of our new bubble blowing machine!

Catch Up

2011-03-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been M.I.A lately. It takes blogger sooooo long to load up pictures that eventually I just give up. But I have managed to let the computer load up the pictures. So, catch up. We finished basketball recently and I am glad to be done. While I know my oldest loves playing, it eats up Friday nights from the end of September until March. It's nice to be able to go out on dates again! Caleb was able to play with his cousin, which was fun for him, and it meant lots of willing cheerleaders! They did really well and both boys have grown a lot in their skills. Go Brown Bears!

Next big event for us was Aiden's birthday party. He requested a Star Wars birthday party. And so we did a lot of different Star Wars related things. They built battle droids.

And created a battle scene in space.

Brought Yoda back his light saber.

And ate one of our own.

Caleb also taught the boys the proper moves of a Padawan. They also watch the Star Wars Clone Wars movie at the beginning, in between events and at the end. All in all, it was a great party with lots of compliments from the party go-ers.

Now we are on Spring Break, wishing that I had managed to plan something fun. Oh, memories of Disneyland last year!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2011-03-17T09:16:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patty's Day to all the Irish and wanna be's! I have the privilege of having some Irish in my family tree, as well as Clark.
Now, that being said, we really don't do much on St. Patrick's Day. But, tonight, we are going to the boys Spring Concert. They were unable to have a Christmas Concert (yes, our school calls it that) because of some booking issues at the church we go to. I'm actually happy that it's today instead of in December.
First, it's one less thing I had to worry about around Christmas and Secondly the weather isn't quite so frigid so we won't have to make the mad sprint into the building. It's also nice to have my family come and see.
So, while I eat our snack of green peas, the kids are all wearing green necklaces, take this chance to not only reach your inner Irish, but a splash of a reminder that "greener" days are coming! Can't wait!

Trudging Along

2011-03-02T18:17:00.000-08:00

I am in a little bit of an emotional rut.

Nothing serious, just a little bit of a funk. Just feeling like I'm doing the same thing over and over again and not really happy about it. I mean, I know I do the same things over and over again, it just usually doesn't bug me. I'm tired of cooking and cleaning - more so then usual. I'm just plain tired. Sigh. I'm going to blame the weather.... and my kids. Both culprits that can't defend themselves here. I know that weather wise, we haven't been hit as hard as some places, but seriously. And if one of my dear kiddies would decide to sleep through the night again, need I say more?

So, while I haven't figured out how to get out of this rut, I have continued to get some things done for the house. I finally hung up my picture of Bath, England. It's a random shot, but it makes me smile. And, to be ironic, I hung it in the bath... room. But, for those of my friends keeping score, there are now 2 pictures hanging on my wall. Yay me.

Other then that, I'll keep trucking on. Another thing I'll be working on soon-ish is a little quote that I found: We can do hard things. It's a reminder to me that those things that are difficult in my life can be accomplished, even if I'd rather they just went away. Like this rut.

I also received a very anonymous little note thanking me for somethings that I have done around my church. It was very sweet to receive and I wish a little bit that I could thank the kind gesture... or maybe figure out how to pass it on. Hmmm... may have figured out a way out of the rut. I'll keep you posted.

:)

Working on some Goals...

2011-02-09T16:05:00.000-08:00

I've been working on the house... again. It's a forever work in progress, but I'm trying to make an active effort right now. So, I actually made a wreath for the door at Christmas. Yarn wrapped around the wreath form. I need something else to finish it, but I haven't figured that out yet. It'll come. Before next Christmas, I hope.

Next, was new bedding for all of us. I have been looking for a new quilt for our bed for a while. I wanted a quilt, something not too heavy with a sophisticated contemporary feel. I happily found something at Target (of course). But I'm really happy with it. Stones have been sewn into it, adding the whimsy that I was looking for.

The kids also got new quilts. The first time that they have owned something that wasn't hodge podge, the boys all match and a girly one for Kyrie.

I also made a reading nook for Caleb out of his closet. He really needs a place to have down time. He was very happy for it!

I am getting there. Soon, I'll have curtains in the kids room and blinds in some of the windows that are missing some sort of covering. It's been 5 years, but we'll get there. Next is some furniture. I keep looking for sales and trying to work around my in laws travel schedules. Really can't wait until Target graces us with its presence. TARGET!

Why First Impressions Should Never Be Last Ones...

2011-01-27T21:00:00.000-08:00

I have begun to be a lot more aware of the fact that everyone doesn't have a good day all of the time, nor should I ever expect them to. I'm allowed grouchy/annoyed/stressed/whatever days and I should expect that everyone else is allowed them too.

I have also learned that first impressions do not tell the real/full story. I have had moments in my life this past year with people that I interact with (a lot) that send me in a knee-jerk reaction not to associate with them anymore if I don't have to. Man, that knee-jerk reaction... take a hike, eh? (See what I did there? "Canadian" reference. You have to say it like Bob and Doug McKenzie.) Back to thought process.

Once I have managed to set knee-jerk reaction back on the shelf (this sometimes takes A WHILE), I realize that perhaps I have caught someone that I really don't know as well as I think I do, on a bad day. This is obviously something I need to work on, and I'd like to think that I am getting better at it. I haven't gotten over being annoyed, trying to find the positive in the situation right away. What I have done though, is not drag it out quite as long..er. I've had enough experience with this type of situation to learn that I don't have to let it bother me. I don't have to avoid the person. I have to be understanding in the sense that I don't know what is going on and therefore don't get to jump to conclusions. And, that as long as I have a couple of really good friends, I get to be okay with those I'm having problems with.

Thank goodness for good friends. Thank goodness for friends that are becoming good friends. And thank goodness they took the chance to get to know me and deal with all of my "quirks." Now, I need to run upstairs and deal with kids that haven't gone to bed yet. Can't wait to see one of my very best-est friends. Hope he brings chocolate. ;)

And... I'm back!

2011-01-15T11:18:00.000-08:00

Wow! It's been a while since I've posted anything. Christmas crazy, New Year Crazy, Back to School crazy and then general apathy due to weather crazy. There. My excuses. Since we have them out of the way, I'll move on.

Since we were spending Christmas in Montana this year, at the in-laws new cabin, we opened presents with my parents beforehand. This would be the first year that we wouldn't see them at all during Christmas Eve/Day.

Then it was off to the new cabin. It was fun to see the area all white with snow and very quiet. Opposite from the usual summer buzz. Very fun to see Clark's sisters and their families and to let the cousins spend time together. Some of us went snowboarding, we played on the frozen lake, took a round a sledding and just ran around. I didn't get enough sleep, as per usual, but had a great time nonetheless!

I really loved the colors of the drive. Very monotone, but very beautiful.

We had New Years at our house again. Some of my family showed up and some friends came as well. I didn't really take any pictures, I spent most of the time hopping from group to group, making sure that everyone was doing okay. But, it was fun to be up at midnight, with some of the important people in my life to usher in the new year.

This past couple of weeks have been just busy. Clark headed out East for work and so I was manning the fort - again. But, we did okay and he's home now, which is all that matters.

As for New Year Resolutions... yeah, I don't truly make them. But, I am going to work on the house and my projects, as I say every year. I'm getting there though. I found new blankets for all of us (pictures to come) and some new shelves that I would like to get. So, projects not only in the works in my head, but forward moving. I'm looking forward to this next year. We have a couple of things planned, and then happily take whatever else comes our way.

So, another garden this year... with a backyard expansion, I hope. Going to be sharing the space with a girlfriend so she can have a garden while a new house is being built. We are also going to try and plant some more "funky" veggies, which I am so excited about. I am also going to take my hand at trying to grow a watermelon. Wish me luck.

Clark and I have our 10 year anniversary this year and so we are heading to New York for a couples only trip. Love the kids, but happy for some alone time, tromping around a city I love.

And always, some time in Montana. Love that we have such a great place to take the family. Lots of memories and family around to keep us entertained. Happy 2011 to everyone and thanks for being patient with my lack of posting. Things will pick up after this!

Kristen

Merry Christmas

2010-12-15T15:27:00.000-08:00

At the end is a little Christmas Card that I put together for Clark to send out to work contacts. I'll admit that I wasn't organized enough to send it out to family/friends. But, that's why you check out my blog, right?
Everyone is getting bigger, getting into school, sports, friendships and hopefully potty training for the youngest. (Think potty training thoughts.)
But I thought that I would make a list of some of my favorite Christmas things. So, with Julie Andrews in the background and with no sort of rhyming or rhythm (bum ba ba bum ba ba)...

*The Festival of Crafts (though not the best this year): has a couple of things that I always pick up: hot chocolate, fudge, bath stuff, doll clothes
*Appetizer Night at Mom's house
*The Nativity put on by our church for the last 30+ years.
*Christmas Music on the radio
*The tree being up on December 1st... the question is when will it come down?
*Candy cane anything: cookies, hot chocolate

Some New Favorites: (bum ba ba bum ba ba)
*Millarville Market
*Watching the kids attempt skating
*EB Ornaments (haven't bought any, but they are nice)
*Snowflake Cookie Crayons

So, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you! And a Happy/Merry what else you may celebrate. Here's to 2011 coming up!

Stupify!

2010-11-16T14:41:00.000-08:00

I spent the whole weekend on a Harry Potter marathon with a couple of friends. I had managed to watch #1 with my kids, so we were down to the last 5. 2 movies a night for Friday and Saturday night. 1am bedtimes both nights. I am still recovering. I wasn't able to make it for Sunday so I finished #6 yesterday. There's a little bit of a sadness for me as I see the end of the movies in sight. The books came out in 1997. I was introduced to the first on in 1998. That's a long time to have something that fantastic in my life.
While I'm excited for the next movie (we are going to see it at Midnight on Thursday!) I don't know if I'm ready for the conclusion to happen as well. We have started reading the books to our kids and they have really enjoyed them. My 2 year old even recognized Harry while I was trying to watch the movie without them knowing during the day yesterday.
I just really have a soft spot for such a well written book. Guess that means it'll be time to start looking for a new series. This one though, will be one that I will read over and over again. (Especially now that I have all 7 of them in a nice box set.)
To the Boy who lived!

The tally begins...

2010-11-16T14:37:00.000-08:00

I count one, that's one car I've helped push out of the snow. ah ah ah ah (The Count laughing and thunder in the background.) On the first real day of snow, I've already had to get out and help push a car out of the snow that was my street. And, it was a city car to boot. The driver, being from Ontario, I guess hasn't dealt with our kind of winters before. I wish him luck and a steep learning curve as he figures out how to get through the snow.
If our mayor also blog hops as much as he twitters - seriously consider snow removal in the residential areas.

Seriously.

Dear Clark...

2010-10-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

... please forgive me for my persistent commitment to the only night that I actually watch TV - Tuesday nights. I know that you are tolerant of this and I really won't change, unless the TV stations change the night. One day you may learn to appreciate my commitment, but for now, I understand that you just roll your eyes and either sit down and watch, or do something else. It's okay, I understand.

Love,
Me

Have you ever?

2010-10-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been so unbelievably angry that you were shaking and crying and flooded with such intensity? I can't say that I've had this happen very often. And trust me, I'm a pretty intense (passionate?) person.
Yesterday was that day for me. I know that we should not allow the actions of others affect us, but this did. I've been having problems with one of the companies that I deal with for services. I'm not going to go into details about the company, but suffice it to say, we've had some problems. We set up month withdrawal from this company and they NEVER take the money out on time. N E V E R. Oh, but don't you know, it's a "banking" problem.
So I called the head office to complain. Seriously. Everyone else that I deal with for automatic withdrawals get their money on time. EVERYONE ELSE.
Yeah. The "person" that I dealt with was not very nice. Even as I type this, I can think of several other words that would describe this person. But, the long and the short of it is - this "lady" treated me not only like an idiot, but like she was a scam artist trying desperately to get a quick buck. On top of that, when I did get upset and asked to talk to her manager, she hung up on me.
Needless to say, I was ticked off. Shaking and crying ticked off. Fury just flowing out in emotion that I had no way to channel.
There is no room in my world for people like that. You are offering a service that you are unable to allow me to pay for it on time. You are the business and I am the customer. I don't care if you don't like me getting mad at you. You talked over me, constantly interrupted me, forcing me to pause so you could give me your attitude. And then to top it off, you were cowardly enough to hang up on me.
Just because something has been done the same way for years, doesn't mean it's efficient or effective. And, to top it off, I'm not the only one that has had this problem.
Just venting, and finishing off this angry part of my yesterday. I shall go about today a lot happier and a small pat on my back for trying to make things better for me and those other customers that have been told that there's no point in complaining. I'm going to go dig out from the basement and find my smile again. :)

Back to School Picture

2010-10-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

We had our good friend Liz take our back to school pictures. Have to say I like this better then the ocean or flame background one that our school offered. And despite the fact that my 2 year old didn't want to co-operate, she managed to capture him and the rest of my kids perfectly. Thanks Liz! Want to check out more of her work? Go here.

Why the World, and More Importantly I need CHEESE.

2010-09-20T16:47:00.001-07:00

Okay, so we're not talking about the edible variation - though very tasty and versitle in my humble opinion. We are talking even stickier and mushier. The chick flick cheese.

Example. Have you seen Letters to Juliette? I love it. It's simple in story with tiny complexities that are sprinkled in with just people being involved. It has the best part - a happy ending. I'm not into the tragic-more-questions-then-answers ending. That is NOT satisfying to me. Another great thing about the Chick Flick Cheese - you and do the most mundane tasks - like folding laundry - to it. The story is basic, the result is always the same. Would you miss details here and there from the up and down motions of your task? Perhaps, but that's why you watch the movie over and over again. I have seen several different movies that way. Eventually I just sit down and watch from beginning to end, but that it usually when the hubby is out for the evening.

Why does the world need more cheese? We overthink things. Seriously. We are all about the critics and their critiques. Sometimes a light-hearted movie where boy meets girl and a story ensues is good for the soul. Sometimes, the entertainment or "aahhh" factor is fabuolous pick-me-up in the middle of our hectic and crazy lives. Simplicity is not a bad thing. And for me, it's a WELCOMED thing. My life is too complicated sometimes (a chunk is my own doing, but that 's another entry). What is wrong with a little cheese? And better yet, feel free to join me, anytime, for a healthy dosing of some good flavoured cheese.

Here's some of my favourite cheese:

Letters to Juliette
Leap Year
The Young Victoria
Pride and Prejudice (the cheese that keeps on giving - not that way)
Emma
Persuasion
A Walk in the Clouds
Sense and Sensibility
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Sabrina

What is yours?

Where did the Summer go?

2010-09-01T13:09:00.000-07:00

I finally loaded up my summer pictures onto the computer. First note, I'm typing on a computer missing both shift keys, which slows me down a little bit. It's also made for some interesting spelling. So, bare with me.

We hit the beach and played with friends for the first half, but our first major thing this summer was swimming lessons. Everyone did really well.

Then we headed down to Montana for our usual 2 weeks. We played in the water, with cousins. Rode on the jet ski and learned to wake board. We rode in the boat and went on tube rides. Basically we were outside without TV for two weeks, enjoying the weather (even on the crummier days.)

While it is always sad to come home from such a nice vacation, we had a surprise waiting for us. The garden that I had planted this summer - well, it basically exploded! Which is very impressive for this first-time gardener. This has become a very rewarding experience for me. I am so very good at starting projects and so very NOT good (excuse the poor English here) at finishing them. I still have to harvest, but I'm looking forward to it.

And lastly, what would a trip to the beach be, without a mermaid?

Canada Day Long Weekend

2010-07-05T15:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Canada Day and Independance Day!
We spent a busy weekend with family and friends. First off to Airdrie for the Canada Day Parade. This year we actually got shirts for all of us, so we were definitely showing off our Canadian Pride. (And of course, I got no pictures.) It's always fun to go to the parade. The kids love seeing the animals and the candy getting thrown in our general direction.
We were also able to celebrate my nephew's first baby. Our family's Canada Day baby.

The weekend was also spent with some good friends and their families. They adopted another boy and the paperwork finally went through. So they were able to be sealed to him and bless him on Sunday. It's always fun to be around friends and their families. You definitely get a glimpse on how they were raised. Love family dynamics.

We missed fireworks for 4th of July. Always a sight to see and I would say something that my hubby LOVES to see.

This week is pretty laid back in our Summer Vacation awesomeness. Next week - swimming lessons!

Getting there...

2010-06-18T16:01:00.000-07:00

I actually have something growing. Impressive considering the rain, lack of sun and any sort of knowledge on my part. But, we are getting there. (Ignore the weeds in the second picture, they are going to be gone soon. ) So in order: Pumpkin, Peas, and Tomatoes. The last picture is my herbs and lettuce... a lotta bit water logged from all of the rain. They may be a lost cause. I'll give them a little bit and then may have to resort to seedlings. We'll see. Hooray for my garden!

2 Weeks Left...

2010-06-11T17:23:00.000-07:00

...until summer vacation! I love summer vacation. Don't get me wrong, I love that my kids are busy during the school year, but it's so nice to have a lack of schedule for a little bit. I don't have to worry about making sure homework is done and lunches made. The kids go to bed later, but they sleep in. No paperwork to fill out and money to send to the school. Instead, we hit the beach until I'm guaranteed that my tan won't start fading until at least November. We see family and hit attractions around town. All in all, summer is great.

We have a couple of things that we do almost every year. The Canada Day parade in Airdrie in one. Going to the lake in our community is another. But, one of my favorites is always going down to Montana. The kids are entertained. We watch very little TV. We just eat healthier and are outside until bedtime. I love it! It is a TRUE vacation for me. Very little effort on my part to keep everyone busy and I NEVER hear - I'm bored! Most planned vacations for our family are very busy - gotta get everything crammed in cause we aren't usually sure about when we'll be back. But not going to Montana.

What about you? Summer Vacation plans in the works? Or better yet, do you have a favorite vacation tradition or past exploration that you love (still England for me)?

Good luck to everyone as their summer starts (and starts soon.)

My Mood is Like the Weather...

2010-05-28T13:25:00.000-07:00

... a little bit on the yo-yo end. Oh well, this too will pass, (we all hope.) Anyway, I was feeling a touch lazy and thought that an update would be good. Or a good distraction. Whatever the case may be.
On to the distraction.
For the last couple of years, on the May long weekend, we have gone to the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller. It's an amazing Dinosaur museum that our kids have loved. And usually the weather is gross on the Monday of the long weekend, so it works out well. We even invited the Morrisons to join us, cause a road trip is always better with friends, right? I am finding that we even have a good feel for the museum now. I love that it's a place that my kids want to go to and I frankly, like a good museum. And I even have proof that we showed ups as well as our kids! How great is that? Thanks to the Morrisons for joining us!

And, the Saturday before... I managed to get Clark to build me some planter boxes! I've been toying with the idea of a garden for a couple of years now. Got some books, happily read through them and never did much else. Well, as part of the year of actually finishing projects, this is one step closer to getting that done! Now, snow, go away for the summer so that I can get a garden planted!

Doesn't it look nice? It'll look better with a garden!

Speaking of garden and snow, here's some of my plants, in planter boxes of their very own, hanging out with us inside. Wasn't that nice of them? I have seen a couple more that I wouldn't mind getting, just to get things started this year. I'll need to plan better next year. But, one thing at a time, right?

Some randomness....

2010-05-17T11:25:00.000-07:00

So, I planned a little party of sorts for my 30th birthday - a trip over to the movie theatre to see Iron Man 2. It was so fun to see my entire family (that's in the city - missed you Lara) there and some really good friends as well.
Let me just say what an awesome movie. Totally biased opinion. I loved the first one, so I was happy to love the second one as well - even if we were sitting 3 rows from the front on the right hand side.

Thanks again to everyone who showed up. Nice party - no clean up involved. Hopefully you can get out and enjoy the movie as well.

As I look at the calendar there is basically 4 1/2 weeks left of school! Where did this year go? I am so excited for the summer but can't believe that it's so close already. Next year I'll have 3 in some form of formal schooling - from grade 2, kindergarten to preschool. Enoch is so going to be tired of the one on one time!

It's finally warm. Big smiles here.

I have also managed to convince the hubby and a brother to do some digging in preparation for my garden! Getting there, even if it's slowly. Huzzah for getting those goals done!

And lastly, I'm grateful for a chance everyday to get better - at something. Me as a person, things I can do to help my family and friends and things I've learned from said family and friends. Pictures and a little story later.

On a side note: Heard one of the most beautiful baby blessing on Sunday. A lot of love and great expectations for a very special little girl. She will and has touched so many lives already - on top of her family's. And I know that with her very dedicated parents and siblings help - she'll be able to touch a lot more. Rooting for you little Miss M.

Perspective

2010-05-12T06:57:00.000-07:00

Perspective

I get up.
Another day, the same
Messes
Tears
Chores
Work.

The repetition is hard.
Some days -
Too hard.

Where is my mark?
Fame?
Notoriety?

And then I look outside
My home
World
Mind.

And I cry.

These aren't tears of sadness, grief.
It's realization.
That what I do
Is a good work.
Sacred
Time Honored.

And I should cherish it.

Reflections of the Last 10 Years

2010-05-05T06:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me. This is the first birthday in a looooong time where I wasn't working, being pregnant, nursing or generally dealing with little babies (not that I don't love them, cause I do - they are just a LOT of work.) So, I have to say that I was generally excited for this birthday.

Birthdays also make me look back at what I've done - usually in the last year. But with the big 3-0, I was looking back at the last 10ish, trying to figure out what I've done with myself.

So, join me on a little bit of indulgence as I look back....

I took my first plane ride at 19 from Salt Lake to Oakland, California. I graduated from nursing school at 20 from Ricks College (the last group to graduate from Ricks College before it became BYU-Idaho). A long, hard process, but I was glad to have survived.

I got married at 21 (a whole 2 weeks later, but it makes the countdown look more impressive, don't you think?) I also started working at the hospital the week of the 9/11 attacks. I was in orientation when the two towers were struck.

I had my first baby at 23.

I went back to work for a little bit at 24. Our second came a couple of months before I turned 25.

On my 25th birthday, we found out that Clark wasn't getting re-hired with the firm he was working with. We moved from Edmonton to Calgary that summer and bought our first house and eventually our first van.

At 25 (almost 26) and for our 5th year anniversary, Clark and I went to Las Vegas for our first kid-free vacation. We were able to hit Hoover Dam, the Strip and just enjoy the lights and wonders of a Vegas vacation - without our little ones. We even spent a couple of nights in one of the hotels on the Strip.

At 26 baby #3 came along.

At 27 I was able to go to New York City with just the ladies. My first girls only trip. I saw 4 Broadway shows, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Freedom Tower site, and tried out some Frozen hot chocolate. I learned to Jay-Walk "properly" and between my sister-in-law and I, to navigate the Subways.

At 28, baby #4 and we were able to fly with the kids (their first airplane ride) to Florida for a visit to Walt Disney World and Sea World.

At 29 I went to England - twice. The first time, I flew all by myself: First to Amsterdam and then over to London where I wandered around the #1 place I've wanted to go to, by myself for a week with a nervous husband working at his London office. The second time, I was able to bring my parents along for the ride. We even got out of the city!

Our family recently drove (2 1/2 days down, 2 days back) to Anaheim California to go on a family vacation with my extended family: 21 bodies in total. We were able to see Disneyland, Legoland, and the San Diego Zoo. We visited the Mormon Battalion Center and felt some after shocks from an earthquake in Mexico.

On our return, Clark started a new job after working 5 years at the Law Firm that brought us back to Calgary.

I look forward to the next 10 years and looking back on them. I have a bucket list started of things I want to do, places I'd love to go or go back to, and things I want to learn.

Happy Birthday to Me!

Container Gardening

2010-04-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, trying to stretch myself and develop some talents. Plus, it's going to be one of my activities to share with the kids. We are going to grow some veggies and flowers in pots and containers this summer! I know, exciting.

I picked up a book a couple of years ago called You Grow Girl, by Gayla Trail. It was at Wal-Mart and just peeked my interest. I like books and magazines, so it was mostly a "this will be fun to flip through" kind of book versus a "I'd really love to do this."

So that's what I've done the last 2 years. Flipped through the book. I've lost it several times in my house, and I go back to flipping through it when I find it again. I think really it's the Lord saying to me "Here's something you can do, for your family and with your family." I'm obviously slow at getting those kind of hints.

So, I have discovered that Gayla (a Canadian, no doubt) has written a new book called Grow Great Grub. (Say that 10 times fast. No really. Try it. I'll wait... ... ...)

So I'm going to pick that one up. I've picked up seeds. I don't know if they are a stellar brand, but they had fun little cartoon characters on front that grabbed the kids interest, so why not? And if hoarding one more book isn't your thing, she's even got a blog. You Grow Girl. Go ahead, check it out.

We are going to start our seeds this week. I've just got to pick up the dirt. I was hoping for nicer weather to do this little activity outside, but no matter. It'll be something we can do together, and honestly, I'm hoping that we don't have to worry about weeds. I'm very good at pulling the plant and leaving the weed to flourish. So, the goal is to grow some plants, and figure out what they look like when I have enough green space and older kids to commit to putting them in the ground.

Wish us luck!

Back to the Basics...

2010-04-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

Organizing and cleaning up my house has made me realize somethings. First is that I'm a pack mouse (not quite hoarder status) and need to let things go. Second is that I have too much stuff. And Third that my childhood was much simpler then my kids. Some of it is society today and a chunk of it is me.
So, I am going to try and go back to the basics. I am a huge fan of free play, but I think a little intervention in my kids lives isn't a bad thing either. So, here's where you come in. Look back into your childhoods and think of at least one of the following: Your favorite craft/activity that you did or have done with your kids OR a favorite snack/treat that you would have (with recipe if you are willing.) I need ideas and less dependance on the electronic devices and pre-packaged snacks - a re-visit to my childhood and why it was good and fun.

So, for example: We are going to attempt a garden of sorts this year. I don't have a lot of ground space so a large portion of our tiny garden will be in containers. A new adventure on both fronts.

Childhood snack: Confetti Squares. You know, the one with colored marshmellows, butterscotch chips and peanut butter. Yummers! I may try and convince my kids to try strawberries with sour cream and brown sugar. It was something that my grandma would feed us every now and again. And, it's actually good.

So there, you have it. Activities and snacks (healthy or healthier cause they're home made.)

Thanks in advance. :)

Declaration to The Jones'

2010-04-21T13:23:00.000-07:00

(Side Note: Our family just got back from Disneyland and I'm "in between computers." I'll get it up as soon as the computer issue is resolved. Thanks!)

Declaration to the "Jones'".

Dear The Jones'

I hear by declare that I will no longer be keeping up with you. Nor will I try to even compete with you. You cause me too much grief, too much stress. I will never have as nice a house/car/wardrobe/hobby/talent/etc as you and I am going to learn to accept that. Instead of "why me?" I am going to learn to celebrate the diversity of those around me. Instead of feeding the green monster that is perched just in the corner of my brain, I am going to celebrate my friends and family's successes. And perhaps instead of wondering why my house isn't decorated as nicely - I will ask those whose places I now admire how they did it. Perhaps they have a certain style and are just constantly on the look-out for things to make their house nice. Perhaps they just have style. Perhaps I will start there.
I will not wonder in envious amazement at how you, Jones', manage to dress yourself and children much nicer then me. Maybe, we already dress alright and I'm just too busy looking at you, comparing.
I have nice things, Jones'. I am going to appreciate them more, compliment those around me more sincerely and realize that everything has a season -- mine's just going to be a little later. No longer will I worry about my situation in life - it's actually pretty good.
I am going to follow my shopping list a little closer. Saving is cool. Or better yet, debt is not cool. I am going to learn to tackle the house I have, because it's forcing me to do a couple of things: Get rid of junk; Be more aware of what I purchase before I bring home more junk; Organize and furnish our house. And while there are things that really should only be purchased as name brand (waffles, jello, you have a list I am sure), I can buy no-name or second hand a little more.
I am going to get to be better friends (you've been warned) with those who are DIYs. There is merit in learning to build, make and re-purpose other things. Everything doesn't have to be new, Jones'. Really. I am going to finish projects I've started and ask for help (you've been warned). I realize that this is going to be a slow process and I will not always do well. But I will try.
So "The Jones'", let's just be friends. I'm not breaking up with you. It's not you, it's me. Something like that.

"I did it without a man..."

2010-03-17T19:24:00.000-07:00

There is something about that phrase that really irks me. (So is my lack of spelling, but that's another post. Focus Kristen, Focus.)
Back to the phrase. There are many things that I am grateful that I have in my life: the ability to vote, get a job, buy a house, etc. And then there is that awful phrase. This thing that I did is great, because I did it without a man.
There are lots of things I do without a man. Clean the house, laundry, dishes, deal with kids all day long. I got my schooling without a man. I've done some travelling without a man. But, there is something fabulous about a man who is supportive and encouraging. I'm looking at going back to do some schooling - totally unrelated to my field. And my man is totally fine with that.
I just think that in the grand scheme of things, there will be a lot things that I will do without a man. But those things won't be the things that I am proud of. The things that I will remember, be proud of, share with those around me, will be the things that I did WITH a man. (Get your mind out of the gutter...) Travelling, children, schooling, careers, talents - all those things that I would be encouraged or joined by my man. And nothing is nicer then a warm man on a cold winter's night. Believe me.
To those who haven't had the opportunity to have a man, keep looking. To those who don't think they need one, you're missing out.
I have done a lot because of my man.

A New Love with New Entertainment

2010-03-11T17:40:00.000-08:00

The lease on the van was coming up and due to some technicalities (and luck) we were able to return the van early. I can't say that I was sad to lose the van, we had grown with a love-hate relationship. So for Valentine's Day this year, instead of jewels... I have a brand new Acadia! I LOVE IT! It's such a nice ride, fits 8 and is just a nice change to the van I was starting to loathe everyday. On top of that, we were able to get a new Thule. It carries more and fits on the Acadia much better then the other one would have.

About a month ago, I got 9 ladies together to work on a quiet book for the kids in our lives. It was a pattern that I had purchased. I was so excited to see the work that everyone had done. It's just so great! Good job ladies, I'm so happy with how each page turned out.

New Dinos at the Zoo!

2010-03-01T07:39:00.000-08:00

For Family Day, we went and checked out the Dinosaur Alive exhibit at the Calgary Zoo. Several new, anametronic dinosaurs have been added to the 13 old-school ones that were already there. These dinos are pretty fun. It's obvious they're fake. (Yes lady, that's you I'm commenting to. Can't be real cause they're all dead. Sorry you missed the memo. Seriously, it's built for kids, please quit analyzing while we are trying desperately to get past you.) But, they move very well, are on a system, so they don't move all of the time. They do their little sequence, pause for a minute or two, and do it again. So it gives a feel of randomness to their timing. There are also 4 that you can press buttons to move yourself.

At first the kids were a little hesitant, especially my little man. But by the end, all four kids were very intrigued. I also loved that there were a couple of "family" pairings. (See T-Rex and Baby in the pictures.) All in all, we will be going back to check it out again before it leaves in October. There is also a Dinosaur Alive exhibit at the Science Center that we need to take a peek at. Hooray for Dinos!

I think I'm in Love

2010-02-22T14:31:00.000-08:00

I have been doing some blog/website hopping today in between picking up from the weekend. I have found a purse that I am willing to spend the money on. (Believe me, it's usually very easy to talk myself out of something on the more expensive: Over $50 end.) I am not a purse girl in any way or form. I have usually gone for function over form, but this one "spoke" to me. Maybe, I'm growing up? Or growing more girl? It's exciting, I must say!

I've mentioned it to my first love (the Hubby) and in his very unadventurous way told me to save up for it. :( Where's the spontaneity? I guess it was wishful thinking to think he would be all excited for me - and willing to purchase it out of the blue. That's okay, I'll get over it. I couldn't save the picture, but here's the link. Check it out and tell me what you think!

What My Children Are Capable Of...

2010-02-08T17:53:00.001-08:00

Is frankly a lot more then I would ever think. Now this is more of a positive discovery versus a destructive discovery.
I spent the last 2 weeks learning to love my couch as my back decided that it wanted a vacation. A painful, non-productive (even laid-back vacations can be productive- in the relaxation department) vacation. It was awful and I would never wish my last 2 weeks on anyone.

But, back to the point. As I laid on the couch, contemplating how we were going to survive the day, I eventually had to start getting the kids to help. Caleb was able to get breakfast one morning, Aiden would get Enoch out of his bed for me, Kyrie was happy to help with anything and Enoch was just happy to snuggle. It was a lesson in misery, mingled with the discovery that my children really are more capable of helping out then I let them. So, is that a control thing on my part or a deep-seeded desire not only to take care of them, but perhaps, prolong the kid in them, needing my help? More then likely it is a mix of all of them. Oh well.

But now I'm back upright. Sitting. Standing. Working on getting back to sleeping. It's good to have goals. (And good friends who helped me out with carpooling, meals and just generally calling to make sure that I was still alive.)

PS Just got done Sense and Sensability and Sea Monsters... interesting read.

New Year means New Goals...

2010-01-19T07:45:00.001-08:00

I am trying to figure out some attainable goals for the next year. The kind of goals that I will actually succeed at. So, here's a couple of little ones, and then one that I'd like to pull off somehow.

First, I have several projects that I need to finish and USE. So, I have already put one of them up on the wall and finished the next one. That leaves 1 1/2 projects currently on my table to finish. I am so good at starting these lovely projects and so lousy at finishing them.

Next I would like to start reading my scriptures daily if I can. I've never been good at that. (Confession there.) And would really like to start. So I have been following the Sunday School schedule. I figured that it was a good way to have some sort of program and keep me on track because I'm in the Nursery now.

The big one: Organize my house. I know that it's an on-going project, but I would like to be a more active organizer. And get the house painted. The paint's old. It's tired and we need to stay a little bit longer so I would like to have it look nice. And put stuff on the walls: Pictures, vinyl something.

There you have it. I am doing well on the first one. Okay on the second and getting better (wince) on the third.

Next project: Quiet books and felt food.

Why I Love Chinooks... and Ibuprofen

2010-01-11T14:27:00.000-08:00

Caught your attention, did I? The one thing that I LOVE about the Calgary area in the winter, is the phenomenon of a Chinook. Here's a warm wind that comes from B.C. and the moisture is all sucked out by the mountains and so it's just warm, not wet at all. The best thing is that it brings up the temperature into the positive end of the Celsius scale. Snow melts and we even have a little bit of grass showing. I think of it as our little blessing for living in such long, cold winters. So, I'm wearing a sweater when I go and pick up Caleb today. Hooray for Chinooks!

As to the ibuprofen reference... that's what I'm living on right now so I can function. Sciatica sucks! Thanks to a good friend (Kira) for understanding and pain management suggestions. I've had HUGE improvements (aka I can move again.) Want to appreciate being able to clean? Kill your back so you spend most of your day on it. Will I become the next Martha? Nope. Do I seriously appreciate that I can move again, and take care of my family again? You betcha. Now, I have to remember to pace myself a little more. Off to the Canadian Back Institute this week and the wait list for an MRI. Joy.

But -- I CAN MOVE AGAIN!

Pictures of Christmas...

2010-01-03T14:07:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas tree, which the kids helped me decorate, "fancy" hot chocolate on Christmas eve and visiting with family (Enoch holding his 2 month old cousin).

We had a good Christmas. Not too crazy busy, but enough to keep us out of the house. We spent Christmas Eve at home this year and it was really nice to open presents with just our family. I could keep track of what everyone got, the kids were happy to take turns opening presents and I managed to stretch it out for about an hour. Then the kids happily played, I cleaned and Clark took a nap. We got to my parent's house at around 11:30ish and spent the rest of the day visiting and playing video games. We even spent the night so that I could go Boxing Day shopping in Airdrie.

New Years Eve was spent at our house. I was happy to discover that while there were a lot of people crammed into my little house, it didn't feel like we were sitting on each other. Hooray for the basement being done! (Pictures coming on that one...)

All in all, a nice break. I'm happy for the schedules again, just not as happy to have them so tight. Next adventure: Disneyland!

Welcome to 2010. Or as Caleb put it, "Hey, 2010 looks like 20 and 10!

A Year in Review

2009-12-14T11:10:00.000-08:00

One of these years, I will actually get myself organized enough to send out a Christmas Card. Since that is not this year, I'm cheating and doing it on here!
We have had the usual busy year!
Clark was no where near as busy this year as last year... until August. Then he took 2 trips to England within a month of each other. Now, it's just a lot of work at the office, sometimes too much in my humble opinion. He has also just been called as the new Ward Clerk. (I almost typed Clark... hehehe) So now, he's going to be extra busy. That's okay, as long as we have the odd Saturday as a family, we'll all survive. :)
I was also able to meet Clark in England, both times. The second time, I was even able to have my parents come with me. England was number one on my list of places to go, so I was very excited to go not only once, but twice! I couldn't have done that without great family and friends to watch my kids, mostly last minute! Thank you to everyone again and again. I like to say that Clark worked in England, but I got to see it.
We have also been working on the basement, which seems to be almost (knock on wood) done! It'll be nice to have that extra little bit of space. And maybe clean bedrooms when I move the toys downstairs!
This year was good for trips and vacations. We were able to go to Walt Disney World with Clark's parents and had a blast! And the kids did so well. From the terrible blizzard that dumped the night before we left, the full days, we were very surprised that everyone had fun and didn't melt down until the day before we left! We also spent time in Montana, and decided that Clark needs a hobby to entertain himself while he's down there. We're still on the hunt. Clark and I have also recently got our Ham radio licences. We're that cool.
Caleb finished Kindergarten with flying colors. He really loved his teacher (and so did I.) He did soccer again and is currently in Basketball and guitar lessons. It's been interesting as I am learning a bit too. Now if we could only figure out a better practising schedule! Caleb's thing right now is to try and tell me how hard his life is.
Aiden tried out soccer, and we're hoping this next season will work better for him. He was happy to go... and not play. He's in the Bee Happy Preschool and not only is learning lots, but has made a really good friend there. It's nice to see Aiden growing up as such a good friend and brother. Aiden, the dino man, can definitely tell you which dinosaurs are who.
Kyrie was our little dare-devil this summer. She loved taking tube rides and we all quickly learned that she was so comfortable, she didn't feel the need to hold on. So, a big person had to be in the middle, holding her tight. She has also made some good friends with a couple of cousins, who she still talks about on a daily basis. Her latest thing is to tell me that she doesn't get to do anything that she wants. I agree.
Enoch is getting big and hilarious. He loves the Muppets Bohemian Rhapsody, dinosaurs and Caleb, Aiden and Kyrie. (As long as they give him some space.) He's my best go-to-bed kid. He will even throw himself into bed or try to climb in it if he's decided that he's tired. With only 2 more months until nursery, he's making it hard not to wish that time by. He loves to climb, run and give hugs.
Well, that's our crew. Hope that this Christmas and New Year find you all healthy and happy. It's been great to see our family grow, and to see the happenings in our friend's lives. Congrats, good luck and above all,
Merry Christmas to One and All!

From Our Clan to Yours....

Ebenezer and Friends...

2009-12-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

Tonight at 7:45pm and tomorrow night at 7:00pm, our ward is putting on a musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol. It's only 45 minutes long and kid-friendly. If you are looking for something fun to do tonight, head on over to the Cranston Chapel... or call/email me to get directions. I look forward to seeing you all there!

Merry Christmas

My Life Could Be Like...

2009-11-19T12:18:00.000-08:00

... A Sitcom! Here's why:
1) I can solve any problem in under 1/2 an hour... that's as long as my attention span (squirrel!) is anyways.
2) 4 kids in 5 years, those kids say the darndest things!
3) I've become good at being the parental figure that is absent until the very crucial moment (aka I caught you dumping pepperoni and strawberry syrup in a cup, topped with mustard.)
4) We're trying to live in a house that's a touch too small for us, CRAZY things could happen, just to remind us why we love this house. (Or love to destroy it.)
5) I've got a variety of kids: the oldest, the middle, the youngest, the girly girl... who said that couldn't be funny?
6) I've got a stern looking hubby with a hilarious (sometimes very scary to others) side.
7) I'm a stay-at-home-mom with some Nurse's training... slap stick anyone? (NOT WITH A REAL STICK BOYS!!)

... a Drama. Here's why:
1) With the aid of Ritalin, I can upgrade to under 60 minutes for my attention (Squirrel) span.
2) There's lots of tension in our house. Especially between the hours of 4pm and 6pm. (24, you have NOTHING on the tension around suppertime around here!)
3) There are extreme moments where I think someone may have finally broken a leg or killed their sibling. (Well, maimed is more like it.)
4) Same stuff, different day. I can show re-runs too, you know.
5) Driving down the Deerfoot sometimes reminds me of a car chase that I saw on NCIS.
6) I too can finally figure out the problem at the last second. (Even if that problem is where the heck did I leave the keys to the van so I can pick up kids from school.)
7) I too suffer from technological breakdowns that I can't fix in time to view that important email telling me something that I've shipped from the States may or may not finally have gotten past the boarder and may be at my house in time for me to use it for the sole reason I bought it in the first place. (Gasp, gasp, gasp.)

... a Soap Opera. Here's why:
1) Overreaction? We NEVER overreact. WHO told you we overreact? WHO? I'll get them.
2) Soaps make clutter look sexy. I make it look like clutter.
3) My hubby would like to see me... without the kids (what were you thinking?) more often.
4) We have slapping, hitting, biting and poor choices made on a daily basis. The consequence of which are dire - for my sanity.
5) I love my husband, but I have a deep, dark secret. There are other men that I love. (They mostly exist in cheesy romance novels.)
6) I have a love affair going on -- with chocolate.
7) Sometimes I run away from my problems too. Or just leave the kids with the hubby and do something for me once and while.

... a Reality Show. Here's why:
1) The sneakiest contest is my second oldest who can silently torture or sneak food.
2) My Drama queen is around to let me know the latest injustice done to her and why it wasn't her fault.
3) The prize at the end (of the day) is silence, and baby, is it GOLDEN.
4) Lots of people tune in every day to see what is going to happen next. (Yeah I saw you staring at me struggling with my 4 kids at Wal-Mart.)
5) The only one that tends to get voted off the island is me. (And sometimes I run off.)
6) According to my children, I starve them.
7) The stunts performed by my children are without the supervision of a trained professional and therefore should not be attempted at home. (Or at least within the earshot of Mom.)

Introducing...

2009-11-16T13:30:00.000-08:00

a new blog! You have to go and check out my friend Val's food storage blog. This lady knows what she's talking about. And if she doesn't have an answer... she'll find it for you. I love the passion and enthusiasm that she has for this subject. It really shows when she talks about preparedness and everything that has to go with it. While I am on the fringe compared to her, I am both humbled and excited to follow what she's searched out that can make it easier for me to find things to help out my family! So please, check it out. This is for everyone! This month's goal: Water. Storage, purification, etc... Check it out.

http://preparednesscorner.blogspot.com

The Best Way to Watch a Hitman Game....

2009-11-13T18:24:00.000-08:00

What's the best way to watch a Hitman Game? In the box with a couple of friends of course. Two weeks ago we invited some friends to enjoy food (way too much as always) and a little hockey. It's always fun to have someone there for each of my kids to do something with. Thanks to the families that came for such a great time. Hopefully we can do that again sometime soon.

Halloween Traditions...

2009-11-02T07:27:00.001-08:00

Every year my mom puts on a Halloween Dinner. There's a menu with everything called something halloween-y. The point of the dinner is to try and figure out what each thing is. Years ago, I decided instead of trying to dress everyone up and worry about getting the costumes dirty before halloween, we'd get Halloween shirts. So that's what these are. I found everyone excepts Enoch's shirt at Wal-Mart in the States for $5 each!

Here's all my kids and some friends in their costumes, just before we head out trick or treating. We wandered around the estate homes so we cleaned up in about 1 1/2 hours. The last picture is the loot we got. The one on the left is chips and the one on the right is just candy. You know the kids have had enough when they start asking to skip houses to go home! Our saving grace was that we brought the wagon and the large stroller. There was somewhere for kids to pile into when they were tired of walking and somewhere for the candy.
Caleb even helped out a friend who was sick with H1N1 and took a bucket around for her. It was fun to hear people comment on the two buckets he had. A lot of comments were: "Double bagging it, eh?" "Two buckets?" Then he would explain that he was collecting candy for a friend that was sick. All of a sudden, they would reach back into their bowls, buckets, etc and say "Here's some extra, hope she feels better." It was a good experience for Caleb, who is totally willing to help out anyone just naturally. I think he helped people feel the "Halloween Spirit." :)

We all survived and I'm now counting down to when I get to get rid of the candy. (Sad, I know.) We have already had junk for breakfast 2 days in a row. My fault for not getting up on time, I guess. Happy Halloween!

Yesterday I felt....

2009-10-28T13:24:00.000-07:00

like one of these with a head missing....

It seemed whatever I touched, would magically disappear! I know, David Copperfield, I'm coming to take over your job -- except I had a really hard time making things reappear. I seem to have lost everything that I needed yesterday. Grrrr. Let me tell you, I usually go completely crazy when I lose things, so yesterday was a HUGE lesson in patience.

While I did find most of what I was looking for, my journal seems to have taken a vacation and left me to fend for myself. Hopefully I can find it sooner then later. Sigh.

On another note, Happy Halloween to everyone that participates! Hope the weather is tolerable, the candy plentiful and varied and the time spent only fun ones.

Learning To Be Okay (O-hay from my Little Miss)

2009-10-19T14:06:00.000-07:00

Side note (at the beginning):My computer is down and having a hissy fit. So no pictures today. :)

Funny thing about 'growing up'... I'm still having to learn things. Sometimes they are my 'a-ha' moments, sometimes the realization that I'm still a 'kid' and sometimes they are just lessons that have smacked me in the face long enough that I've finally got the bruises of understanding.
I am in the midst (among many, many, many... other things) figuring out what I'm okay with. Okay with things about me personally, physically, etc.
Big one for me is friends. I grew up trying to be everyone's friends. Some took advantage of it. Some ignored me, unless no one else was around. Some actually were my friends. Some, we learned to become friends. It's been an interesting journey, I guess.
I am learning now that while my hubby is one of my best friends - he just doesn't get the girl things. I have also learned that I don't need a handful of 'best' friends. Just a couple. What I need are friends that I can do things with, call every once and a while for help and even a few who I can hang out with as couples.
The funny thing is, this realization has done a couple of things for me. It's taught me that I can do things on my own and it's okay. (Big realization from someone who is the oldest of 6 kids, worked as a nurse and have 4 kids of my own.) I was under the impression that you MUST do things with other people in order to have fun. Now, for the most part, for me, this is true. But every once and while, it's okay to do something on your own. Does that mean I'm going to hit a movie or go to a restaurant by myself? Probably not. But there are other things I can do and have done.
It's also taught me that I don't have to be invited to everything and I don't have to feel like it was a slight against me too. That's been a little harder to get over and I'm sure mostly a 'girl' thing. But I'm getting there.
I have also learned that I need to make my friends a little more of a priority. So when my knee-jerk reaction is to say "No", I need to find a way to say "Yes." Can't complain that I don't have any friends if I don't do anything with them, now can I?
So, I'm grateful for the myriad of friends that I have. Some that are great for a girl's night out, some that I share common interests with (you know who you are) and some that call to check and make sure I'm still alive today. (And that my children are too on the bad ones.)
Thanks to my friends. Thanks to the friends who let the hubby and I come and play on Saturday. It's fun to see the usual people I do things with and mix in some new ones.

To My Friends....

One of these houses is not like the others...

2009-10-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

Do you remember that song from Sesame Street?
"One of these things is not like the others. One of these things is kind of the same."

Yeah. When we moved in to our house, we were right beside the show home office. Well, the office picked up and moved and then we were beside a great empty dirt field. Full of wonder, rocks and mud if the weather permitted. It was wonderful. (Insert sarcasim here.) Well that dirt field is now a proud owner of two houses. And it's been great actually. The framers didn't start until 8 in the morning, so it wasn't like I was woken up to hammers banging. They made great strides all summer long while we were in and out of town. It's had been a good little experience....

Then, when I got back from London (the first time) I was greated to my new neighbour's houses. Tell me what you think:

My phone call to Carma didn't get me great results. It was something to the effect: They aren't going to change the siding, but Heartland will try to paint them to make them look different enough. And actually, this picture makes it look like the houses are much more different in color then in person. These two houses are right beside me! It's awful! Anyway, that's all from us for now. I'm going to survive until Wed/Thurs for the Chinook to hit and get rid of the unsightly white stuff.

I'm Great at Starting A Project...

2009-10-09T07:52:00.000-07:00

... but not so good at finishing them. I think I suffer from a mild case of A.D.D (I know it's not called that, that's why I suffer from it). I get started, guns a blazin' on a project. Then.... the house needs cleaning, the kids need something, I have to switch over the laundry and all of a sudden - what was I doing again? So, part of our de-junking and clearing out the POD is that I have a small pile of projects that I now need to get finished. It's slow going because I still manage to get distracted - shock I know. But, I am determined to get things finished. I am in the process of finishing something that I should have gotten done last year. I just need to pick up some wall mounting stuff and I can have it up to display for the world! It's very exciting.

Next goal: THE BASEMENT! We've had several hiccups and are going to get started on it again. It's so close to being done, it's actually driving me crazy. We are trying to make this house last a little bit longer, and so the basement will be a welcome addition to containing the kids toys and cleaning up their rooms that bit more! I'm excited.

Ongoing goal: Organize this house! I have found that not being pregnant/nursing (ever again!) has definitely given me more energy and motivation to get things done around my house. I am just trying to be patient as we get furniture and more shelves in our life to put things somewhere. It's moments like this that I contemplate the lottery...

Anyway, wish me luck. Heck, harass me a little about this projects. If I know I'm now responsible to someone, I'm better motivated.

Here's to my goals!

Growing Kids

2009-09-30T14:41:00.001-07:00

I have just realized that my kids have sprouted on me... all of them! I looked at Caleb's pants and realized they are hitt his ankle... Aiden, Kyrie and Enoch, all suffering from this same phenomenon. I had the sad impression that I was on top of that, and here we are - all needing new or the previous owner's clothes! Caleb and Kyrie will be getting some new pants and shirts this weekend and Aiden and Enoch will be recieving the hand-me-downs. And everyone needs new shoes - right before we need new boots! AAAHHHH!

I always like to tell Caleb to quit growing. He just rolls his eyes and says "I can't stop growing mom."

Phrases I've taught my children.

2009-09-02T17:44:00.000-07:00

For better or worse there are phrases, sayings, and other exciting things that have come out of my mouth and promptly engrained into my children's.
1. "That's not on sale." This has been my lifesaver. It's so much easier to swallow "Is this one on sale mom?" then "Can I have this one?"
2. Mom: What do you do if there's a problem? Kids: Tell Mom. That's the phrase I go over with Kyrie and Aiden before I hop in the shower.
3. Mom: You get what you get... Kyrie: And you don't get upset. I don't even think she realizes I am talking about her, but she seems to get a serious kick out of that one.
4. Mom: Does whining get you what you want? Child:No.
5. Child: Can we get a treat? Mom looks at child with raised eyebrow. Child: If we're good, right?
6. Mom: If you keep doing that... Caleb: You'll go mental?

Any of you have some phrases that I should/should not teach my children? As Clark and I always say to each other after a tough day with the kiddies: Why did we have kids again? Oh yeah, cause they're amusing and we have no self control!

England Pictures... finally!

2009-08-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

Sorry this has taken so long. I found that I'm still struggling to get back into my routine, and I can't blame jetlag anymore. So finally got the pictures together. We'll call this a sprinkling of my pictures taken. Enjoy the sprinkles.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

My little Enoch....

2009-08-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

It's a happy birthday to our little Enoch. He's one year old today and currently climbing through the open suitcases for Clark and my trip to England. He's been our best baby: patient and happy and quite tough, dealing with 3 older siblings. He's currently attached to my plastic slotted spoon which he carries around all of the time and sweeping/vacuuming the house. (I'll take it!) He was born at 4:20am at 9lbs 15oz. He wins on the Schow side for heaviest baby and came the last day Clark's sisters were visiting, so they got to see him. So happy birthday Enoch, we wouldn't be able to have CAKE without you!

PS Pictures from my trip to come....

Guess Where I'm Going?

2009-08-04T14:44:00.001-07:00

Here are the following picture clues....

That's right London.... ENGLAND! Clark's been there for work and needs to stay one more week, so he invited me to come. (Very girly squealing inserted here!) I was always sad when he went to Africa, because he'd be gone from us. But I have to say I was a little miffed that he was heading to London without me. So I leave in a couple of days and fly to Amsterdam and then on to London. I'm excited and slightly freaking out. While I don't do as bad as some people on planes, I'm not the happiest flyer either. Wish me luck.

Back from Grande Prairie

2009-08-02T11:55:00.000-07:00

So I did something that I have never done before: Took my kids on a little road trip without Clark. That's right we wandered up to Grande Prairie. 7 1/2 hours in the car with four kids. I've actually never been further then Edmonton, so that was an experience in and of itself. My sister and her family live up there and I usually make her come visit me (I know real nice sister.) So this time it was our turn. We spent Monday to Friday last week up there. Hit a lot of different parks, roasted hot dogs and marshmallows and just had cousin fun.
Here's the kicker: I didn't have my camera. My camera (and darling husband) are both vacationing in London, England. (Insert English Theme from the movies here.) I'm only a little annoyed I didn't get to go. When Clark went to Africa, it wasn't a huge deal as it's not really on my list. But London?... Sigh.
Anyway, we have this week to survive and he'll be home. Nice thing was that I already ate up a week... in Grande Prairie.

Summer Vacation

2009-07-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

We just got back from our yearly summer vacation to Lake Blaine, Montana. Lots of fun, sun, water, tube-rides, boat rides, playing with cousins, and shopping on my part. We love our vacation and look forward to it every year. I even managed to get some pictures of me in there and a nice tan.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Something to think about....

2009-06-28T21:28:00.000-07:00

... besides the fact that I posted two entries on one night, I mean. Found this on a friend's blog. It originated on FastRunningBlog.com and comes from a swim coach. Enjoy!

"Last week, we had a Mom come to us and "inform us" that her 13-year-old daughter would be gone for two weeks vacation in late June, maybe another week after that.

Her daughter was not much of an age group swimmer, but she has some endurance capacity and comes regularly to workout at 5:30 am and again at 5:30 pm daily. She works hard, demonstrates little talent, but lots of determination.

Her mother is not athletic and clearly does not value athletics. We expressed our dismay that she'd be missing for 2-3 weeks in the middle of the most important training of the summer. Her mother's response?

"Who cares, she'll never be an Olympic swimmer, so what does it matter really?"

This is a dagger in the heart to any swimming coach, and it is to me.

If we only cared about and worked hard with, those 52 people who will eventually, once every four years, go off to the Olympic Games, it would be a small, empty and meaningless sport.
My response was "That's really not it."

What is it?

It is the fact that young people need to learn to dedicate themselves to something that is difficult, something that requires perseverance, guts and the daily determination to get your butt out of bed and go out and push your body till it can't go anymore.

Why do they need to learn this?

Because their lives are too easy, too soft, too catered-for. Too many people carry them, make excuses for them, never allowing them to try to be "heroic." Is it "heroic" to get your butt out of bed and go swim at 5 am? It is if you haven't done it before. Is it heroic to "make" 10x200 fly on 4:00? It is if you haven't ever done it before. Is it heroic to finish your swim and turn around and cheer for the teammate who is even further behind than you are, and is struggling to make the set? Need I say it? It is if you've never done it before.

And that is what "It" is about. About doing what you haven't done before. And learning that sometimes you succeed. Sometimes you fail. If you fail, you go again until you learn to succeed.
It's not about being an Olympian. It's about being Olympian. Learning to be a hero.
And what it takes to learn that.

Or, you can Be Comfortable and teach your child that it's more important to be Comfortable.
So, if that's your choice, I only have one question?

What will happen to your child on the day when they are made "uncomfortable" by life?"

Caleb's Birthday Party

2009-06-28T20:48:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I did the brave and noble thing and hosted a birthday party for Caleb. He invited 9 boys (8 made it, why can't my parties have that great a turn-out?). The theme was a Super Hero Training Camp. Doctor Disaster and Commander Chaos were threatening to take away Summer Vacation, along with other dasterdly deeds. It was our job to train to become Super Heros.
First the boys picked out their Super Hero name, power and drew a costume. They each made Dog Tags (we were at a training camp, of course.) We needed to find and remove all of the Kryptonite in the area. Then we had to learn to aim at villians with water balloons. We played blob tag for team work and then went through the obsticle course at the park. When we returned, we discovered that the villians had stolen the birthday presents! It was time to cape-up, armed with silly string to take them down. The villians were soon located and I'm happy to say that the Super Heros won the day and the presents were soon returned. Caleb had a great time, with a fun cake and a lot of presents!
On a side note, a good dad and uncle are ones that are willing to dress up silly and be attacked by 10 crazy little boys.

Empty Buckets....

2009-06-15T13:45:00.001-07:00

Our Relief Society is still on the post-retreat high from this past weekend. It was so nice to visit, eat, laugh, eat, be goofy,and eat, just as sisters, mothers, sisters in the church, whatever you want to (eat) call it! Our RS still had a little feel of Auburn Bay group, Cranston group and I would like to think that a lot of that has been blurred. At least for me anyways.
I hit a temple session before starting the festivities with a couple of ladies from the ward. It was nice, calm and quiet. Something I haven't felt in a while, worrying about kids and going on a Saturday.
Kelly gave a great message about sacrifice. She encouraged us to find something that we needed to do (ie scripture study), figure out the time we could sacrifice (ie 15 minutes) and then double that, creating a true sacrifice.
Then the night was filled with games, talking, quilt tying and just getting to know each other in a true girly fashion.
The next day involved a loose list of things we could do before heading home. I just loved it! What a great way to get to know people better and to get together!
The theme for this event was filling our empty buckets, one drop at a time. It was a nice call to remember that while we as women give and give until our buckets are empty, we do need to do things to fill it back up again. Can't give everything you have when there's nothing left to give.
Love you ladies that came and missed the ones that weren't able!
(I had so much fun that I forgot to pull out my camera and take pictures, sorry about that! While a post is good with words, it's better with a picture. Enjoy!)

The 10 minute Tidy....

2009-06-10T14:02:00.000-07:00

We've been encouraged to look for the hand of the Lord in our lives, every day. Here's one of mine.
Monday was a sucky day. The kids were happier making the mess and watching me clean it up. I handle that VERY poorly. (I know shocked, aren't you?) So, after banishing them to the outer reaches of ... their bedroom, I picked up until I was good and cranky and then I sat down in front of the computer to mope a little bit. (Hey, it's better then yelling, not as instantly gratifying, but better. Aren't we all supposed to look for the "better" things in our lives?)
Back to the moping. So, I was moping at the computer. It's a fabulous image of me, sitting, in front of the computer, trying to figure out what to do since I had blog-hopped earlier today. And then - it hit me, and I didn't hit back. I remember several family home evenings where we "helped" my mom clean up. She'd made several different attempts to get us to help, but this one worked the best.
I have called it the 10 minute Tidy. It's really simple. We divide into teams (an adult and at least one semi-willing child per team). I have chosen at least 2 rooms/areas that need attention. We split up into said rooms and clean, for - wait for it - 10 minutes. When said 10 minutes are up, we then move to the next area.
I know, awesome isn't it? I could make millions... of things disappear just by forcing my family to help. And the kids (and Dad) like that there's a time limit, so it feels more like a race to see who can clean the most.
Hooray for my mom and hooray for that drop of inspiration in my lap. We will definitely be using this again.
Proof we got some cleaning done. (Or that I was playing with my camera, you be the judge.)

Sunshine on my front porch...

2009-06-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

...makes me happy. I have the best view of the sun for most of the day. It shines right on my front porch, making for a nice place to sit and suntan. I haven't been to the beach, but I look like it! So if you're wanting a tan, a little dose of vitamin D, a reason to get rid of the Seasonal Affect Disorder you have suffered from in the winter months, swing on by. I happily sit with a swimsuit top and a pair of shorts, rolled up just a little bit. Now if only I could figure out how to get my own lemonade boy to bring by ice cold lemonade. Maybe weed the lawn. Fan me. Hmmm....

Check this out!

2009-05-27T16:16:00.000-07:00

I found this blog hopping today and it's pretty awesome. Now I like Taylor Swift and Coldplay, so it may be a selected awesome but anything done well on the piano always gets my attention.
Maybe a little pick-me-up? What do you think?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0v3d6SFcDys

Family Pictures

2009-05-24T13:07:00.001-07:00

We finally got family pictures done. Thank you to Liz Cranmer for being so efficient and quick. Now, if I could only train my children to look at the camera at the same time. Is that too much to ask? Is it?

Make a Smilebox photobook

How do Traditions begin?

2009-05-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

The last couple of Victoria Day Monday we've gone to the Royal Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum in Drumheller. Not even sure why. Just seems like the Monday always ends up being gross and my boys like dinosaurs. It's always easy to convince my parents to come too cause honestly, who doesn't like an extra set of hands (or 3 or 4)?
This year it was my family and my sister Lara's family. As always, my 2 youngest sisters came along. It was nice to do something indoors out of the rain and with Lara's family. I only have 1 cousin my age, so it's nice for my kids to have a couple that they get along with so well. The nice thing about going once a year, the same old exhibits are tolerable and there's just something awesome about these creatures that roamed the earth so long ago. It's almost surreal because it's not something anyone witnessed and yet we have all this evidence kicking around that states they existed.
Anyway, pics are good in a post, so enjoy our trip. My favorite is the Ammonite that makes an organic gem called ammolyte. Farily pricey and mostly Albertan. Banff jewelery stores have pieces. (And I just got one of my own.)
Cheers!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Quilt Giveaway

2009-05-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

Liz Cranmer, who is amazing, has another quilt giveaway. It's really cute, go ahead and head over to: http://pigtailsandsnails.blogspot.com and check it out. A gift for your house, someone having a girl, or to hang on your wall? See what you think! (She takes really fun pictures too, waiting patiently for mine!)

Moping... a little

2009-05-11T13:36:00.000-07:00

I finally caved and read Twilight. And the rest of the series. This past weekend. Now, I'm suffering from post book series let down. It always happens to me when I finish a book series. Doesn't matter if it was good/bad/ugly, I'm always a little sad and mopey afterwards. What's a girl to do? Anyone have any good series that they've read? I need a week or two, but I'll be ready to pick up another e-book and plow through it. (Did I mention I love my iPhone?)
So, while I mope here, I may pick up the Twilight movie, just to torture the hubby or watch Pride and Prejudice again, just for the kicks.
Anyway, back to the books. Have to say I was pleasantly surprised by them. (Okay I could do without 1/2 the second book, but that's just me.) It also reminded me a little bit of my own life. I know, cheesy, isn't it? Or sad. Or something. Those who know me, know tidbits of dh and I dating. There was a bit of drama, I'll just say and some sacrificing and some moping, actually. Anyway, it obviously worked out well in the end, but it was nice for the reminder of what great things I do have in my life (and that in regards to the books, my life could be much worse.)
So, glad for my life, my hubby, kids and the ability to get almost anything I want (within reason of course.) So, while I mope, I might as well be sappy about it.
Lucky Clark.
:)

The Grass is Greener

2009-04-30T12:06:00.001-07:00

I have to admit that I am having a "grass is greener on the other side of the fence" moment. I would really love a much bigger house then the one we are currently squished in to. Sigh. But, I like the current lifestyle we have going on right now too. I know a bigger house would mean a bigger mortgage, and so my play money would go into the house again. I keep looking every now and again and I am learning that I either have to stop looking at bigger houses or learn to treat it more as a long-term goal. Perhaps I'll learn to figure out the in-between, isn't that the best place to be? We'll see. With my birthday around the corner, I remember that my family growing up didn't move into our first house until I was 12, my mom was then 32! So, I shouldn't complain too much. Atleast not out loud.
We'll get the basement finished, some painting done and some furniture purchased, and I think that I can survive this house a little bit longer. Anyone up for some renovating? Or better yet, home decorating? Since I have no set style and frankly the mish mash of stuff I have totally reflects that, I often think about those HGTV shows where someone comes in and totally fixes up a room and it looks awesome. We'll get there, it's just slooooow.
Wish me luck.

Spring is in the air....

2009-04-20T15:21:00.000-07:00

The great thing about spring for our family is that we are so "outside" deprived, we are happy to do anything I can think of. So we found 3-D sidewalk chalk and the kids have loved the glasses that came with them and the chalk to draw on the sidewalk, the van, the deck, uh, you say it was just "sidewalk" chalk?

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Happy Easter!

2009-04-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

We had our egg hunt this past Saturday and it was so much fun! The kids were just thrilled to be hunting for the eggs. Enjoy the pictures taken on my new Canon Powershot G10! I'm so spoiled, I'll admit it. My dear hubby willingly dished out the money for a new camera for me.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

A Vacation and a Difference

2009-04-03T10:20:00.000-07:00

We spent last week in Florida, the whole family, with Clark's parents. What a busy, amazing, awesome time. I have never been to a Disney Park before and was excited for the opportunity. It was incredible. I know why people go back over and over again. One of the differences between Disneyland and World is how they are set up. Disney World is divided into Kingdoms, each being a seperate park. So we hit Epcot on day one. Magic Kingdom for two and three and Animal Kingdom on day 4. Then a hit at SeaWorld. The kids did great on the plane and with the busy schedule. I'd say that Kyrie had a couple of meltdowns, but who wouldn't without naps for a couple of days? For pictures, check out facebook. I couldn't set up a scrapbook the way I wanted. We can't wait to go back again.

On a different note.... I always feel like my voice doesn't make much of a difference. I always fill out petitions and send emails for things that I feel strongly about, but don't ever feel like it does anything. But, I have noticed a couple of things that I have helped out with. They are both silly and little, but enough of a postive experience that I'll keep trying. First off, the Joe Line at Superstore. Girl side, is awesome. But I noticed that the baby boy side was next to nothing. So, I thought, what the heck, I emailed them. They gave me the usual "Thanks for your opinion, we'll send it to the right person" garbage and I thought that was the end of it. But, I'd say the last couple of months, I have actually noticed a bump up on the baby boy side. Did I do that? I don't know, but hopefully I helped.
The Second experience was with a local radio station. I listen to Lite 96 most of the time cause I don't have to worry about most of the songs... until a couple of days ago. They started play Hot and Cold by Katy Perry and I noticed they didn't bother to edit the "b" word in the song. I was shocked! I thought I was mistaken until yesterday when I heard it again! So, I emailed them, letting them know I wasn't happy about it. I got an email by the end of the day informing me that they now had it edited! I do make a difference. I haven't heard the song since, but you can be sure that I am keeping a good ear out for it. For me, while it feels like the voice of those who'd like to destroy the things I love are winning, perhaps they wouldn't if I was willing to speak up just a little bit more. And I think I will.

Taking Shifts

2009-03-13T23:16:00.000-07:00

I'm not a super night owl. More of an, late evening owl. I'm the owl that snags the mouse that was trying to be productive and get on its day early and then crawl into bed. So here it is 12:17 am on a early Saturday morning and I'm still up. Why, you may ask? Or at least I'm hoping cause I'm going to tell you.... just after I go and take my contacts out and put my glasses on. Just wait. I promise I won't be long. Uh, wait.
Okay I couldn't find my glasses. But, I'll find them the second I walk into my room in the morning. Sigh.
I've got 2 sick kids sleeping on the main floor. One is on the couch, the other is on the floor. We figured laminate would be easier to clean then carpet/toys/blankets that cover the floors of their rooms. So since Clark worked until 4:30am yesterday, I'm taking the first shift. And I think after this entry, I'll be catching some winks. Sleepy.
So, it's quiet and I could have worked on my lesson, but that would be productive and honestly, who is productive at 12:25 in the morning? (Time has passed, silly glasses.)
Anyway, I finally caught the bandwagon and watched Twilight. I can see the appeal on the side of the fence that has its fans and I can see the frustration for the other side of the fence. It had such great potential for a story, I could see it underneath everything, but it got lost in the heavy breathing and slow moving. It's unfortunate really, there really was a great story in there. Will I read the books? Who knows. Books always are better then the movie, so perhaps the great story is better displayed. We shall see.
That's all from this sleepy bird. Cross your fingers I can pass out without more throwing up. Thank goodness for plastic bowels, I tell you.
Oh and if this entry doesn't make any sense, please tell me.
Good night/morning.

Open Door Policy

2009-03-03T11:16:00.000-08:00

Our home has an open door policy. It always has and I love it. I even had an apartment with an open door policy when I was at school. There is only one rule with this policy, you take my house as it is and whatever food we shove at you. (We're always shoving food at people. Don't worry, it's good to eat.) I was contemplating that last night. We've been so blessed and the best way to keep those coming is to share. We are happy to visit or have you drop off your kids (there's a time limit for that though - you do have to pick them up eventually.) I have had people come and vent or just come and wash dishes. I just am happy that our home is open and welcoming to whomever crosses its threshold.
Hooray for the Green House!
PS I made cookies if you need an incentive this week!

I don't want a story, I just want the truth....

2009-02-25T14:12:00.000-08:00

We have various new visitors to our home. They are "Not Me", "He/She Did It" and the ever faithful "Shoulder Shrug." We also have the ever self-sacrificing "I Guess, Maybe I Did It" (even though my tone and body language suggests that perhaps I didn't, but I'm saying I did to get you to stop asking us, mom.) There are a lot of things I love about my kids getting older: they can dress themselves, find food if they need to and entertain themselves and/or each other. This new phenomenon is not as welcomed. My usual response: I don't want a story, I just want the truth. Otherwise we all point fingers at each other, calling each other a liar. And then we've completely missed the point and the original reason we were having the discussion in the first place. Love my kids... there are just some days I should just stay in bed. :)

Smiling in Troubled Times

2009-02-15T20:43:00.000-08:00

It's been an interesting weekend. And not necessarily the kind of interesting that I would like to remember. A little bit of good mixed in with a lot of not-good. I don't know how else to describe it. I was commenting to a friend the extent of my weekend and she replied "And here you are, smiling inspite of it all." And it struck me. It was actually true. There was a lot about the weekend that really didn't invoke smiling out of me. But here I was, smiling at church and genuinely happy to be there. Some days I think that I'm still a kid, learning and growing and trying to figure out how to be an adult. And then there are days like today, when I realize that I am one step closer. (Baby step, really.) And there it is. Plain and simple. I have a lot in life to be grateful for: a family that loves me and tolerates my cooking and cleaning, a husband that lets me do almost whatever I want whenever I want (with a little bit of reminder that I do have to come home eventually), friends that either "get me" or atleast put up with me, the gospel in its truths with members striving for the same thing, a calling that may actually turn out to be really good for me (aren't they all?) and loads of other things. It's amazing those moments that we choose to look at for the lesson in the positive or negative. And, I'm trying a little harder to find the positive.

For when you're feeling sad...

2009-02-10T19:25:00.000-08:00

... you are welcome to call me. But, if you think it's too late at night or you're just too much of a wreck, please feel free to check these "wrecks" out.
http://cakewrecks.blogspot.com/
I laughed, cried and then took a deep breath, cause I couldn't breathe very well. The blogger's comments with some of the "wrecks" are just as funny as the items displayed. Now, you are wondering what I am talking about. Go. See the hilarity at it's finest.

Go.

The Myth of the Perfect Pair of Jeans

2009-02-09T16:35:00.000-08:00

I have heard tale of the "perfect pair of jeans." They say that there is a pair out there for everyone. I've been told depending on how much you are willing to take out of your wallet also depends on your ability to acquire them. I have never experienced this phenomenon. And frankly, I would love to. My problem is that I'm not really built like a "woman." No hips, no backside. But, I still want to find that perfect pair of jeans. Anyone know of a pair of jeans that not only fit in the waist, but in the length as well? Especially for those not of the curvy nature? A magical pair of jeans that won't break the bank or make my husband start to twitch? Even if they do cost a little bit more then say, $20? I long for that day. And when I too, find the perfect pair of jeans for me, I think I'll break the bank buying so many pairs of them. That way, I'll have some for when they don't exist anymore. Sigh. For now, I think I'll go find a belt to hold these ones up.

The Power of the Blog

2009-01-31T14:20:00.000-08:00

I'm taking a break from cleaning the house and I was fiddling around with my "Cleaning Mix" (sad commentary on my life I think), adding songs and I remembered the song on Jacquie's blog that I found catchy. So, pulled out the iPhone, loaded up Shazam (LOVE this program) and found out the song title and artist. Also love iTunes as I quickly downloaded it and am currently listening to the song as I write this.
I also love all of your blog lists, I'll be honest. I've found some great sites with amazing ideas simply hopping from blog to blog to blog. It's a good thing that I am a social butterfly or I would easily find an excuse never to leave the computer! And the free backgrounds, and the fun gadgets, and the ways to display my pictures. I was worried that I would never really have time to figure this blogging thing out, but all I have to do is wait for one of my "blog friends" to figure it out for me! Thanks for saving me the time, I really appriciate it. And my sometimes neglected children thank you too.
Speaking of children, it's a lot of fun to tune out them out for a few moments and check up on the friends I know have blogs. It's a nice reminder that we are all in the same boat, a good chuckle or a realization of an insight. So, thanks to all of those who allow me to blog-stalk them and the things they are willing to share with the world!
Keep on bloggin' ladies!

Hitmen Hockey Game

2009-01-24T15:04:00.000-08:00

So Tuesday we went to the Hitmen game at the Saddledome. Clark was actually able to get the firm's box for the game totally last minute. I love going to things in the box, I'm really spoiled in that regard. So, when several people backed out being able to go (can't imagine, it was last minute,) we decided to take the whole family. I have to admit I was a little hesitant. I knew Caleb would be able to handle it, and actually he was totally enthralled. Aiden and Kyrie had a hard time, but we were contained in the box seats. That was our saving grace. And Enoch, was very fascinated by it all. We had a couple of friends also join us. I still feel bad for the girl that had to clean up after us, even though she did assure us that she'd had to clean up much worse. (As my always complaint, forgive the poor quality of these pictures... I need a new camera.)

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Why is my child still up when I'm so tired?

2009-01-14T21:41:00.000-08:00

It's 10:42pm, and American Idol is on. And Kyrie is still up, watching it. She really loves musicals and so I think she's just happy to hear the music. She'll sit in the car and sing to the music. The only problem is, she's a bit on delay. I love that she sings and dances, so different from my boys. I can happily sit on the couch and watch a musical with her. I have to admit, that I was nervous about having a girl after the 2 boys. Boys are physical and rough, but I was definetly used to it and didn't know if I could handle the emotional range of a girl. There are days when we butt heads (which is sad cause she's only 2) and other days when she climbs up in my lap and hangs out. Ah, my Kyrie girl! Love you. Now all I have to do is figure out how to bottle up a child's energy and sell it and I would be rich FOREVER! Wahahaha... uh I mean, awkward. ;)

What to do for a Party?

2009-01-08T10:23:00.000-08:00

Clark and Kelly turned 30 on the 5th! It's a little surreal for me. We met when he was 20 and to think we've known each other for 10 years already! We did a little family dinner on Monday and Jen and I are throwing an open house style party on Saturday. But onto the real post...

Aiden's birthday is in March. I don't start doing real birthday parties until they are 4 -- just the appriciation factor on my part. And then we only do parties every other year, I'd like to spend my money on groceries and clothes not just parties. So, I asked him what kind of party he wanted. What did he ask for you are wondering? That's right a Lightening McQueen party.

Who's Lightening McQueen? You obviously don't have little boys in your household. He is from the Disney movie Cars. Which is the BEST Disney boy movie that we have seen. It's so easy toy, clothes, accesory-wise for a little girl. Boys get a little bit left out. But then came Lightening McQueen. Anyway, I like to have a couple of different activities for the party so I'm looking for ideas. PLEASE feel free to send them my way! Thanks in advance.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-31T11:48:00.000-08:00

Finally got around to doing this. I was sick this year for Christmas. I know, "Merry Christmas to me." Oh well, not much I can do about that. So, unfortunatly, I actually don't have a lot of pictures. (I'm the picture-taker in my family.) But, thanks to Jacquie, I loaded this up to Smilebox and here's the meager offering I give to you. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. (We are heading to the zoo tonight to check it out, will let you know how that goes.) On the very positive note, gots myself a new iPhone, compliments of my very good hubby. Now, if I could only figure it out. ;S

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it... be warmer?

2008-12-17T11:17:00.001-08:00

There is something about the cold and snow that suggests Christmas to my mind. There's something about the minus whatever weather that suggests perhaps a warmer climate should come to mind. I can't believe how cold it is before Christmas this year. Just goes to show that Calgary weather is just bizzare -- and sometimes us Calgarians are too. ;)
I love pictures of my kids, especially when they are doing something nice, quiet and not crazy. Which, then, as you know, means it doesn't happen very often.
Enjoy our gingerbread house night, random pictures of the kids and some shots of the snow. I'm not sure how to truly capture how cold it is here. Let's just say, "Global Warming" is not a "problem" this year.
Merry Christmas and as Caleb like to remind me, only 8 more sleeps until Christmas!

Christmas Letter

2008-12-12T16:56:00.000-08:00

I'm no where near as organized this year to have had my cards all finished, started or even thought of. So, I'm doing the terribly impersonal thing and dedicating today's entry to the "Christmas Letter".
It's been a crazy and hectic year for our household. Clark went to Africa several times over the year. I had our last baby, Enoch. Caleb started school, is playing basketball and giving me a little bit of attitude. Aiden has started to leave the "terror" phase of life and is becoming a nice little boy. Kyrie is my singer, dancer and on a lot of days, my boss. Enoch is just happy to be paid attention to and loves to smile.
We have been getting organized and I'm learning to be okay with the cleaning aspect of life. It's been a hard adjustment but somehow I'm learning to survive. There is something scary and strangly satisfying about entering the realm of the cleaner. Next year? We'll see. I'm not one for resolutions, I can't get laundry done, why resolve to do something I can't get done too? I am about setting goals that I can finish. So, I'm working on my list of things to learn and things to get better at. So, I guess in that respect, my resolution. And of course any letter is better with a picture.

She's done it again!

2008-12-06T15:09:00.000-08:00

Okay so first note, I had my 5 year old take these pictures. Anyway, I love to dye my hair. Yes, I'll admit to that. There's just something fun about being a "different" person. I have a great hairdresser-friend who is just happy to play with color in my hair. I always love the result and let's admit it, the shock value is fun too!
On a side note, we went to Clark's work family Christmas party last Saturday. Lots of fun, craziness and a closed in tent that the kids ran around in. It was at C.O.P. I had never been up there before and it was a really nice set up. Santa came and brought them each a gift, there was face painting, balloon "art", petting zoo, bouncy things and even gaming systems set up.

The Tree is Up, It's Christmas!

2008-11-28T21:14:00.000-08:00

It should actually read, the Tree is STILL up... which is impressive in and of itself. We put the tree up on Sunday and then let the kids decorate it Monday night. Very chaotic. They were so excited to be decorating the tree, I couldn't keep them out of the decorations. There was no gently handing the decorations to them, which I'm not sure why I was surprised that didn't happen. Oh well, it's done, it looks lovely and the kids love it. Now, if only I can convince Clark that a pre-lit tree is the way to go!

Season of Reflection

2008-11-23T12:23:00.000-08:00

I find that this time of year is not only full of winter and Christmas (and Thankgiving for those south o' the boarder) but also a time of reflection. We look back at the accomplishments of the year, try to forget the big mistakes (but maybe not the lessons) and look forward to the new year, with its clean slate to fill. I'm never good at Resolutions, I find they are something I feel good about, make to break two seconds later. But, I do have a wish list of things that I would like to get through this year.
1. Get the house cleaned up, organized and generally presentable to the General public, generally.
2. Look into a couple of different classes. (I have another list of things I would like to learn.)
3. Become more aware of those opportunities to serve and to continue to teach children my how to serve.
4. Crack open a good book. (Perhaps the scriptures?)
5. Look for the happiness in my life and try to spread a little bit to those who come in contact with me.
What about you? Wish list for you and your family? Something attainable maybe? As we put up our Christmas tree in the next couple of days, I look around at my home, which is clean right now and I'm grateful for the chance I've had to look a little out of the box, help a friend who helps me out with great results.

Happy Relfections, but more importantly, Merry Christmas! Let's enjoy the season this year inspite of the commercializm, the chaos and just remember the greatest love that we celebrate - the birth of Jesus Christ.
PS Got a countdown to Christmas on the bottom of the blog, check it out!

The Flat Tire Fiasco

2008-11-17T11:07:00.000-08:00

So, today was a simple day, errand-wise. I needed to hit Chapters and drop something off in Okotoks. The van was driving a little off, but I didn't worry too much about it. Yeah. Come to find out that one of the tires is flat. Again.
I'm to the point where I just shake my head. Off to Foundtain Tire again. Crossing my fingers that they will be able to fix it instead of me replacing it.

Quilt Giveaway

2008-11-14T17:30:00.000-08:00

I was doing my blog hopping and found this site and the 3 quilts in a give-a-way! Go check them out, she's going to give 3 lucky people one of the quilts.

Here's the link and a picture of the one I liked.

http://oldredbarnco.blogspot.c om/2008/11/win-1-of-3-quilts.html

It's the Middle of November...

2008-11-14T17:03:00.000-08:00

...and frankly the weather is awesome. So I didn't get into the top 5. :( Sigh. I'll get over it -- eventually.

So, here's my new find... Cupcake Bath Bombs! Yummy right? I think so. I tried to get a picture to show you, but I wasn't able to. But, if you want something to do, check out the website.

http://www.feelingsmitten.com/

I drooled over the pictures for a couple of days. Now, I'm not much of a bathtub person, but I would seriously consider having a "tub" to try out one of these!