so, some sundays, at church, i feel crowded from my kids, like- can't anyone sit on their own lap, and can i get just two inches of room between me and the next person?
what do you think would happen if i suddenly yelled out: "stop touching me! get off my lap, keep your body out of my space!"
do you think anyone would notice?
cause i kinda felt like i was about to do that today.
just saying.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
A post with lots of links and a great story, too
today is wednesday.
remember last wednesday when i told you that i think there is someone watching out for me? well, i still think that. and then on thursday i told you why. i'm sure that it was pretty annoying to have to wait a whole day to find out why i thought someone was watching out for me. and so, today i have decided to let you know that i know that someone is watching out for me and i'm also going to tell you why. all in the same day. you're welcome.
do you also remember that this morning i told you about oldest daughter and the stainless steel bowl? right.
because of the bowl, i was kind of feeling like i was in for a day of un-delightsome tasks- with the maximum excitement being washing out the bowl and cleaning up after the throw-ups. but, as you may recall, someone definitely is watching out for me- and gave me a little bonus excitement for the day. in the form of a robbery.
the husband happened to be working from home today so as not to pass on the yucks to anyone he might encounter at his office.
when he works at home, he is situated in our bedroom upstairs that has a desk facing the window in our room, and this window faces the street in front of our house. and from here, he has a clear view of many of the goings on of the neighborhood. and also from here, he has involved himself in preventing a few crimes in the neighborhood. like the time when a kid (around 17 yo) was walking down the street, checking in the garage windows of every house he came to. the husband observed this for a bit and then went out to confront the kid, who insisted he was looking for his dog. because usually when dogs run away, they are hiding out in someones garage. however, soon after he was confronted by the buffness that is the husband, the kid took off quite speedily down the street. (maybe you can understand my concern recently when our house alarm went off unexpectedly. remember that time?)
around noon, i was in the kitchen, cleaning up. you know, the usual. when the husband runs downstairs and tells me to call 911. because he was on a conference call and couldn't. i had no idea why, but i have learned not to question why- especially when my husband asks me to involve the police- and especially in my neighborhood.
so, i began to dial the police station (because i asked if normal dispatch was ok, and he mouthed that, yes, that would be fine.) as i dialed, i followed him back upstairs to find out what i was supposed to tell the local police department once i reached them. and he proceeded to tell me (while muting his call) that our neighbor's house across the street was being broken into, he thought, by the local hooligans.
as i was talking to nina at dispatch, i was in little son's room peering out the window, trying to catch a glimpse of the action. i was explaining all that the husband had told me: there were three boys, all minorities- hispanic or black, and they were checking in windows and looking altogether suspicious.
then, right as i am talking to her, i see a kid on the roof. he is wearing a white muscle shirt and blue jeans- and i give that description to the dispatcher. and then, he goes in the window! i couldn't believe what i was seeing: a robbery in broad daylight- with entry from the roof! no, not too conspicuous.
remember last wednesday when i told you that i think there is someone watching out for me? well, i still think that. and then on thursday i told you why. i'm sure that it was pretty annoying to have to wait a whole day to find out why i thought someone was watching out for me. and so, today i have decided to let you know that i know that someone is watching out for me and i'm also going to tell you why. all in the same day. you're welcome.
do you also remember that this morning i told you about oldest daughter and the stainless steel bowl? right.
because of the bowl, i was kind of feeling like i was in for a day of un-delightsome tasks- with the maximum excitement being washing out the bowl and cleaning up after the throw-ups. but, as you may recall, someone definitely is watching out for me- and gave me a little bonus excitement for the day. in the form of a robbery.
the husband happened to be working from home today so as not to pass on the yucks to anyone he might encounter at his office.
when he works at home, he is situated in our bedroom upstairs that has a desk facing the window in our room, and this window faces the street in front of our house. and from here, he has a clear view of many of the goings on of the neighborhood. and also from here, he has involved himself in preventing a few crimes in the neighborhood. like the time when a kid (around 17 yo) was walking down the street, checking in the garage windows of every house he came to. the husband observed this for a bit and then went out to confront the kid, who insisted he was looking for his dog. because usually when dogs run away, they are hiding out in someones garage. however, soon after he was confronted by the buffness that is the husband, the kid took off quite speedily down the street. (maybe you can understand my concern recently when our house alarm went off unexpectedly. remember that time?)
around noon, i was in the kitchen, cleaning up. you know, the usual. when the husband runs downstairs and tells me to call 911. because he was on a conference call and couldn't. i had no idea why, but i have learned not to question why- especially when my husband asks me to involve the police- and especially in my neighborhood.
so, i began to dial the police station (because i asked if normal dispatch was ok, and he mouthed that, yes, that would be fine.) as i dialed, i followed him back upstairs to find out what i was supposed to tell the local police department once i reached them. and he proceeded to tell me (while muting his call) that our neighbor's house across the street was being broken into, he thought, by the local hooligans.
as i was talking to nina at dispatch, i was in little son's room peering out the window, trying to catch a glimpse of the action. i was explaining all that the husband had told me: there were three boys, all minorities- hispanic or black, and they were checking in windows and looking altogether suspicious.
then, right as i am talking to her, i see a kid on the roof. he is wearing a white muscle shirt and blue jeans- and i give that description to the dispatcher. and then, he goes in the window! i couldn't believe what i was seeing: a robbery in broad daylight- with entry from the roof! no, not too conspicuous.
then the dispatcher told me that another call was coming in on the same burglary. from my next door neighbor. we were witnessing the same thing.
finally, after what seemed like forever but probably no longer than three or four minutes, the cops showed up. and they surrounded the house- and the house next door.
they weren't able to catch the guys in the act. they probably jumped the back wall that backs up onto a main street. and they probably had their getaway guy waiting there. i went outside and told the cops my story and my neighbor told her story and then after the husband's call was completed, he came down and put in his two cents.
as we were talking to the officer, another officer pulled up and had the husband get in his vehicle to go and identify one of the suspects. and the homeowner came home around this time as well. (my good neighbor had called him and told him what was going down.)
when the husband returned, he reported that he had made a positive i.d. yay! get those bad guys!
so, in total, the bad guys got a plasma t.v., an xbox and playstation and a digital receiver- and perhaps more they haven't realized yet. you wanna know the really sad part? the homeowners had been robbed in january and at that time, the bad guys had gotten away with two plasmas and other stuff. and then, you wanna know the really, really sad part? today is the homeowner's birthday. (we got some gourmet treats to take over tonight.)
as i was leaving to run errands this afternoon, my neighbors reported that their xbox, playstation and receiver have been recovered.
anyway, i know i am being looked out for. in all the ickiness that goes on in our neighborhood, my family has been really protected and watched over. and for some reason, i don't worry. and then, another reason i know that i was looked out for- i was provided with an adventure to break the monotony of the stainless steel bowl.
we also wonder if the husband had run out and confronted the bad guys, what would have happened? it could have been dangerous. and perhaps the guys wouldn't have been able to be caught.
except, i personally believe that if the naked ninja had made an appearance, we may never have bad guys in our neighborhood again.
Overnight
This morning at 3:00 a.m. we pulled out the stainless steel bowl for oldest daughter.
What were you doing at 3:00 a.m.? (should there be a period before that question mark, or not? both ways look weird.)
What were you doing at 3:00 a.m.? (should there be a period before that question mark, or not? both ways look weird.)
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Unwanted Guest
I have a confession. We have had a visitor for the past two weeks and I have been feeling loads of resentment by his early arrival. He wasn't supposed to be here until June. It's like he just came in and invaded my whole world. House. Yard. Car. (Pretty sad to admit that is my whole world- house, yard, car. Small world.)
But, in the past couple of days, we have had a little relief from him as he has taken a short vacation away from us. I expect him to return in the next couple of days- with all his baggage- and I have decided to embrace him. Because, when he returns, it means that I will have to accept that summer is here. It means I have my kids all to myself for TWO WHOLE MONTHS!!! And I love having my kids close.
So, when that triple digit temperature man returns, I will accept that he is here to stay. And we will swim. And eat popsicles. And sit in front of the fan. And crank the a/c in the car to MAX. And drink cold, cold drinks. ALL THE TIME.
And perhaps we will watch a few movies. And color. And blow bubbles. And turn on the sprinklers and take a few passes through them. And do crafts. And take naps. And read stories. And build forts. And ride bikes when the sun goes down. And clean the house a little. But only a little. Because summer only comes once a year.
And, ready or not, here he comes.
But, in the past couple of days, we have had a little relief from him as he has taken a short vacation away from us. I expect him to return in the next couple of days- with all his baggage- and I have decided to embrace him. Because, when he returns, it means that I will have to accept that summer is here. It means I have my kids all to myself for TWO WHOLE MONTHS!!! And I love having my kids close.
So, when that triple digit temperature man returns, I will accept that he is here to stay. And we will swim. And eat popsicles. And sit in front of the fan. And crank the a/c in the car to MAX. And drink cold, cold drinks. ALL THE TIME.
And perhaps we will watch a few movies. And color. And blow bubbles. And turn on the sprinklers and take a few passes through them. And do crafts. And take naps. And read stories. And build forts. And ride bikes when the sun goes down. And clean the house a little. But only a little. Because summer only comes once a year.
And, ready or not, here he comes.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The Details
I firmly believe God is in the details of our lives. Elder Neal A. Maxwell talked about this in a conference talk in 1996 and that statement has stuck with me. And I have often looked back on an experience and thought to myself *yes, every detail.*
On Tuesday- one of my true marathon days- I know God was in every detail.
Tuesday was crazy! We woke up, got oldest daughter to school and then took the husband's brand new car in to the dealership to have LoJack installed (so don't even think about trying to swipe his ride- we'll know where you are within 24 hours- they have assured us).
The dealership is about 45 miles from our home- and we were fighting morning rush hour, so it took a good hour and 20 minutes to get there. Little son wanted to ride with the husband in his sweet new blue and silver roller skate, so we loaded up his car seat and the husband stressed about finding something to put behind it because of the velcro it has on the back of little son's car seat. The husband didn't want it pulling at the fabric on his new seat. I must admit, I was a little impatient with this- it seemed pointless to me, not to mention it was holding us up- and I was on a tight schedule that day. He eventually found a yellow rag to put behind the car seat to act as a buffer between the scratchy velcro strip and his new seat.
We pulled onto the freeway and I followed the husband and little son all the way to the dealership. Once the husband got all the keys handed over to the service department, he threw the yellow rag on the floor of the van while I secured little son's car seat in my car and buckled him in. Finally, we were on our way again. This time headed about 25 miles away to the husband's office.
We dropped the husband off at his office and headed home so I could get showered before dropping middle daughter off at preschool, little son at the babysitter's, and myself at oldest daughter's school to help in her classroom. Because I always help on Tuesdays. The husband and I arranged that I would pick him up right after I left oldest daughter's class and picked up middle daughter and little son. And then we would go and get his car, which should be done by then.
As we headed home, I had no idea our exit was closed. Nor do I recall any alerts along the way stating that most important detail. I was a little frustrated as we came upon our exit and there is an orange sign stating that the exit is closed. I had to drive to the next exit. Once I exited, I decided I may as well stop at Sam's Club to pick up promised treats for oldest daughter's class. (she loves the chocolate chip creme sandwich cookies rolled in sprinkles from the bakery. I highly recommend them as well)
We got the cookies, and on the way out we passed by some chicken salad that I just happened to throw in the cart.
We arrived home in time for me to shower, prepare a quick lunch for the kids and run out the door to get to preschool, babysitter's, and volunteering on time.
As the kids were loading in the car, little son determined it was important for him to play with the yellow rag that was on the floor of the van. And he dropped it to the garage floor as I was shutting the door. I left it, and jumped in and we were off.
Oldest daughter's class was in party mode and thoroughly enjoyed the treats I brought. No sooner were we done with the treats than in walks the teacher's husband with ice cream cones for all the kids and a bouquet of flowers for me. Beautiful flowers, might I add.
It just so happened that the Character Assembly was to be held at 1:30 and oldest daughter had been award the Character Award for her classroom, so I was able to attend with the class. It was a lovely assembly. And I was a proud mother.
As soon as the assembly concluded, I went ahead and signed oldest daughter out of school an hour early and we left to retrieve brother, sister and husband. And, of course, we were on a tight schedule because we had to be home in time for oldest daughter's Girl Scout Bridging to Brownie ceremony- which I would have to leave a bit early and head straight to a camp meeting.
I decided to stop by home to put the flowers in water so that they would not die on our long trip to retrieve the husband and his little tikes look-alike car.
After I got the flowers taken care of and headed out to the garage, I noticed the infamous yellow rag was attached to the front drivers side tire. I stooped to pull it off the tire and found a bit of resistance. As I reached my hand to the inside of the tire to detach it, I felt the wire on the tire tread and immediately took that as a bad sign. And the first thing I thought was, "There is no way I am going on a 100 mile freeway trip with my tire in this condition!"
I called the husband and alerted him of the situation and told him to stand by, because I thought I could pick up the other two kids, get the tires changed at Sam's Club and then still make it to his office and to the dealership and back home in time for the ceremony and my meeting.
It turned out (and this is where I am making a long story a little less long) that Sam's Club doesn't carry our particular tires- special order only. So I went over to Wal-Mart- and there is only one guy working with 3 customers waiting and he was no where to be found. Par for Wal-Mart. So I headed to Pep Boys across the street.
I ended up replacing the two front tires and had them do a front-end alignment, called the husband to let him know it would take an hour and a half and would not be able to make it to his office to get him. He got a cab to the dealership to retrieve the date car, and made it home before I did- all in rush hour traffic.
After the mechanic pulled off the tires, he showed me the terrible shape they were in- the tread gone, wires exposed and a couple of gaps- and expressed his surprise that they hadn't already blown. I was in awe. I was thankful for the annoyance of finding a yellow rag to protect a new car's seat, thankful for a son who has to play with everything and thankful for a teacher who gave me a beautiful bouquet of flowers that I had to return home to put in water. If not for these three things, I am positive I would have encountered some catastrophic event on the freeway.
I arrived home after the husband, quickly whipped up brownies for the "Brownie" Ceremony, slapped some chicken salad on bread (being thankful I had thrown it in the cart at Sam's Club earlier that morning), ironed patches on oldest daughter's Daisy Girl Scout tunic, and rushed out the door to make it just on time for the ceremony. After which, I ran to my meeting- arriving just after the opening prayer.
Once I had a chance to breathe that night, I gave thanks to a loving Father in Heaven for watching out for me.
And for caring enough to be in the details of my life.
Yes, every detail.
On Tuesday- one of my true marathon days- I know God was in every detail.
Tuesday was crazy! We woke up, got oldest daughter to school and then took the husband's brand new car in to the dealership to have LoJack installed (so don't even think about trying to swipe his ride- we'll know where you are within 24 hours- they have assured us).
The dealership is about 45 miles from our home- and we were fighting morning rush hour, so it took a good hour and 20 minutes to get there. Little son wanted to ride with the husband in his sweet new blue and silver roller skate, so we loaded up his car seat and the husband stressed about finding something to put behind it because of the velcro it has on the back of little son's car seat. The husband didn't want it pulling at the fabric on his new seat. I must admit, I was a little impatient with this- it seemed pointless to me, not to mention it was holding us up- and I was on a tight schedule that day. He eventually found a yellow rag to put behind the car seat to act as a buffer between the scratchy velcro strip and his new seat.
We pulled onto the freeway and I followed the husband and little son all the way to the dealership. Once the husband got all the keys handed over to the service department, he threw the yellow rag on the floor of the van while I secured little son's car seat in my car and buckled him in. Finally, we were on our way again. This time headed about 25 miles away to the husband's office.
We dropped the husband off at his office and headed home so I could get showered before dropping middle daughter off at preschool, little son at the babysitter's, and myself at oldest daughter's school to help in her classroom. Because I always help on Tuesdays. The husband and I arranged that I would pick him up right after I left oldest daughter's class and picked up middle daughter and little son. And then we would go and get his car, which should be done by then.
As we headed home, I had no idea our exit was closed. Nor do I recall any alerts along the way stating that most important detail. I was a little frustrated as we came upon our exit and there is an orange sign stating that the exit is closed. I had to drive to the next exit. Once I exited, I decided I may as well stop at Sam's Club to pick up promised treats for oldest daughter's class. (she loves the chocolate chip creme sandwich cookies rolled in sprinkles from the bakery. I highly recommend them as well)
We got the cookies, and on the way out we passed by some chicken salad that I just happened to throw in the cart.
We arrived home in time for me to shower, prepare a quick lunch for the kids and run out the door to get to preschool, babysitter's, and volunteering on time.
As the kids were loading in the car, little son determined it was important for him to play with the yellow rag that was on the floor of the van. And he dropped it to the garage floor as I was shutting the door. I left it, and jumped in and we were off.
Oldest daughter's class was in party mode and thoroughly enjoyed the treats I brought. No sooner were we done with the treats than in walks the teacher's husband with ice cream cones for all the kids and a bouquet of flowers for me. Beautiful flowers, might I add.
It just so happened that the Character Assembly was to be held at 1:30 and oldest daughter had been award the Character Award for her classroom, so I was able to attend with the class. It was a lovely assembly. And I was a proud mother.
As soon as the assembly concluded, I went ahead and signed oldest daughter out of school an hour early and we left to retrieve brother, sister and husband. And, of course, we were on a tight schedule because we had to be home in time for oldest daughter's Girl Scout Bridging to Brownie ceremony- which I would have to leave a bit early and head straight to a camp meeting.
I decided to stop by home to put the flowers in water so that they would not die on our long trip to retrieve the husband and his little tikes look-alike car.
After I got the flowers taken care of and headed out to the garage, I noticed the infamous yellow rag was attached to the front drivers side tire. I stooped to pull it off the tire and found a bit of resistance. As I reached my hand to the inside of the tire to detach it, I felt the wire on the tire tread and immediately took that as a bad sign. And the first thing I thought was, "There is no way I am going on a 100 mile freeway trip with my tire in this condition!"
I called the husband and alerted him of the situation and told him to stand by, because I thought I could pick up the other two kids, get the tires changed at Sam's Club and then still make it to his office and to the dealership and back home in time for the ceremony and my meeting.
It turned out (and this is where I am making a long story a little less long) that Sam's Club doesn't carry our particular tires- special order only. So I went over to Wal-Mart- and there is only one guy working with 3 customers waiting and he was no where to be found. Par for Wal-Mart. So I headed to Pep Boys across the street.
I ended up replacing the two front tires and had them do a front-end alignment, called the husband to let him know it would take an hour and a half and would not be able to make it to his office to get him. He got a cab to the dealership to retrieve the date car, and made it home before I did- all in rush hour traffic.
After the mechanic pulled off the tires, he showed me the terrible shape they were in- the tread gone, wires exposed and a couple of gaps- and expressed his surprise that they hadn't already blown. I was in awe. I was thankful for the annoyance of finding a yellow rag to protect a new car's seat, thankful for a son who has to play with everything and thankful for a teacher who gave me a beautiful bouquet of flowers that I had to return home to put in water. If not for these three things, I am positive I would have encountered some catastrophic event on the freeway.
I arrived home after the husband, quickly whipped up brownies for the "Brownie" Ceremony, slapped some chicken salad on bread (being thankful I had thrown it in the cart at Sam's Club earlier that morning), ironed patches on oldest daughter's Daisy Girl Scout tunic, and rushed out the door to make it just on time for the ceremony. After which, I ran to my meeting- arriving just after the opening prayer.
Once I had a chance to breathe that night, I gave thanks to a loving Father in Heaven for watching out for me.
And for caring enough to be in the details of my life.
Yes, every detail.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
What I Learned Yesterday...
Someone, somewhere is looking out for me. And I think I know who it is.
Thank You.
Thank You.
Monday, May 18, 2009
fly swatter
not ten minutes ago i was sitting in my family room, watching the finals for dancing with the stars and a fly that has been in my house all day. and he has a buddy in here somewhere. little son and i have spent a good portion of our day chasing them around, trying to either get them outside or kill them dead.
as i watched gilles and cheryl do their little flashdance rendition, i saw something out of the corner of my eye and recognized it to be one of the gruesome twosome that has been annoying us all the day long. at first i didn't pay much attention to the aeronautical pest, i was just a bit distracted by the ripped up clothing on television, but then i focused on the fly and watched as it ascended- up, up, up.
right into the ceiling fan, which swatted it across the room.
i watched the fly as it was thrust to the floor. it lay there, a little dazed. and then got up and carried on its way.
and i realized
i had missed my chance to kill it dead.
but, wow, it just got a round-house kick to the body with a ceiling fan. and it got up and moved on.
there's a lesson here.
maybe.
as i watched gilles and cheryl do their little flashdance rendition, i saw something out of the corner of my eye and recognized it to be one of the gruesome twosome that has been annoying us all the day long. at first i didn't pay much attention to the aeronautical pest, i was just a bit distracted by the ripped up clothing on television, but then i focused on the fly and watched as it ascended- up, up, up.
right into the ceiling fan, which swatted it across the room.
i watched the fly as it was thrust to the floor. it lay there, a little dazed. and then got up and carried on its way.
and i realized
i had missed my chance to kill it dead.
but, wow, it just got a round-house kick to the body with a ceiling fan. and it got up and moved on.
there's a lesson here.
maybe.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Dream a Little Dream
I have blogged about my dreams before. I think it is time for another installment.
Thursday night as I was sleeping, I dreamed about someone I have met through blogging. So, really, I only know what I imagine to be her personality- Fun. With a little fun on the side.
When I woke up Friday morning I immediately sent her a message on facebook telling her about my dream. This is the message I sent to her: (doncha love how it sounds like i said it all in one breath?)
you were in my dream last night. weird, i know. this is what happened: i went over to your house to visit. and you were making something out of candy and then you took me to show me something in your laundry room and then you had this whole cupboard full of candy that your dad gave you. and then we were making a candy craft and you went to your other laundry room to get some glue. you had two laundry rooms! lucky!
and when i was leaving your garage door was only half-way shut, but you were able to pull your big suburban out of your garage without harming your garage door.
so, that is all.
hope you have a great day.
Just a couple hours later, I checked facebook and found this response (I'm sharing with her consent, of course):
OHHHHH MYYYYYY GOOOSH!!!!!!!!!that is hilarious!!!
you want to know what is so funny-- yet freaky-- about this??????
My DAD really did give me a whole lot of candy!!!! my great-aunt {his aunt} is going to a nursing home soon & he and his brothers were over there the other day cleaning out her pantry & her sewing room... and he gave me all of the sweets/ingredients/crafts/materials/ etc.....
and GUESS WHAT??????
we DO have 2 laundry rooms!!!!!!!!!!! one is used as a laundry room and the other is used as a PANTRY/SCRAPBOOKING/CRAFT ROOM!!!!!
and guess what else?????
well... i dont have a Surburban... but i do have a FORD EXPEDITION--its about as BIG as a Sururban!! and i am always scared to drive that thing in my garage because i am afraid it will get stuck because it is so tall and my garage door will not open all the way up to the top for some reason!!!
this is INSANE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am like totally freaking out here!!!!!!
THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR DREAM WITH ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday night as I was sleeping, I dreamed about someone I have met through blogging. So, really, I only know what I imagine to be her personality- Fun. With a little fun on the side.
When I woke up Friday morning I immediately sent her a message on facebook telling her about my dream. This is the message I sent to her: (doncha love how it sounds like i said it all in one breath?)
you were in my dream last night. weird, i know. this is what happened: i went over to your house to visit. and you were making something out of candy and then you took me to show me something in your laundry room and then you had this whole cupboard full of candy that your dad gave you. and then we were making a candy craft and you went to your other laundry room to get some glue. you had two laundry rooms! lucky!
and when i was leaving your garage door was only half-way shut, but you were able to pull your big suburban out of your garage without harming your garage door.
so, that is all.
hope you have a great day.
Just a couple hours later, I checked facebook and found this response (I'm sharing with her consent, of course):
OHHHHH MYYYYYY GOOOSH!!!!!!!!!that is hilarious!!!
you want to know what is so funny-- yet freaky-- about this??????
My DAD really did give me a whole lot of candy!!!! my great-aunt {his aunt} is going to a nursing home soon & he and his brothers were over there the other day cleaning out her pantry & her sewing room... and he gave me all of the sweets/ingredients/crafts/materials/ etc.....
and GUESS WHAT??????
we DO have 2 laundry rooms!!!!!!!!!!! one is used as a laundry room and the other is used as a PANTRY/SCRAPBOOKING/CRAFT ROOM!!!!!
and guess what else?????
well... i dont have a Surburban... but i do have a FORD EXPEDITION--its about as BIG as a Sururban!! and i am always scared to drive that thing in my garage because i am afraid it will get stuck because it is so tall and my garage door will not open all the way up to the top for some reason!!!
this is INSANE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am like totally freaking out here!!!!!!
THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR DREAM WITH ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Is that not a bit freaky? Like, if I were Merrianne, I would be way freaked out by me. Cause that is a lot of crazy stuff. But, truly, I am a nice person and I keep my stalking to the blogs. Except if you live near me, then I might consider stalking you in person. Kidding! JUST KIDDING!!!
***post edit: After I received this reply from Merrianne, I sent her another message asking if she had posted any of this stuff on her blog, and she said she hasn't. Whoa.
In the future it is possible I may pursue a career in the psychic arena. There may be something in there for me. I'm feeling it. And I'll probably cut you a little deal if you ever have need of my services. Like, *mention this post and you'll receive 50% your next reading.* I'll keep you posted. Because I'm sure you're looking for a good psychic. In the meantime, I'll be out shopping in the hopes of finding an appropriate wardrobe- because psychics usually dress really special.
However, if you ever do a craft, and if it involves candy, invite me over! I love crafts and candy AND, I'd love to see your two laundry rooms. Because, apparently, there are people out there with two laundry rooms.
Friday, May 15, 2009
winner, winner chicken dinner
so, i gotta give a few shouts out to the peeps who've been pimping my blog lately. i recently received a blog award from cute jordan at mean mommy academy.
she gave me this award:
i feel so unworthy. my blog is not that lovely. quite plain, really. and so i am quite flattered. i now get to nominate 15 people for this same honor. and so, without further ado, i nominate the following:
- aMAYzing: Wonder Woman taking on the world
- An Eagle's View
- The Misplaced Americans
- Trying to Stay Calm!
- if i were really skinny...
- Talkaholics Anonymous
- Little Grumpy Angel
- Mere Motherhood
- Fairly Fishy
- Smushed Goldfish in the Cracks of Life
- Life is to be enjoyed!
- ...Of Toddlers And Teens
- Come. Sit. Enjoy.
- Everyday Miracles
- The Frosted Cupcake
these are all awesome blogs. check 'em out. pass on the award if you like. if not, be sure to brag about it.
and then, cute trina had this giveaway:
and i won! so trina brought it to me this week. and i love it! and my house smells all yummy.
have you used scentsy stuff? i love it. and my fave scent is *flirtatious*. i recommend a visit to her scentsy site, and then order something from trina.
last item,
this is a tradition that i loved and looked forward to growing up. on the morning of every day of the last week of school, my mom would hide a number for each of us kids to find. and then, when we got home from school that day, we would have a surprise waiting for us: candy or some special treat. it was magical.
monday begins our last week of school- and the children can't wait. so, since there are only four more days of school after today (thursday is the last day), monday morning i will hide #4s for my kiddos to find. and then when oldest daughter gets home, they can claim their prize. it's magic. magic, i tell you.
happy friday to you all!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
A note from the husband about working from home...
We live in Arizona. As some of you know, President Obama will be speaking at ASU's graduation this evening. Beginning last night at midnight, restrictions were put into place on travel to certain areas of the city.
And, because my office is in a high rise building, we had somestrange visitors securing our building over the past couple of days. It seems like the place is crawling with secret service.
It just so happens that my office is relatively close to SunDevil Stadium, where the President will be speaking.
Because of the travel restrictions, traffic is a mess. And with theDiamondback's game this evening, it will only get worse...
So, I'm working from home today. (My apologies to my co-workers who already received this in email.)
Congratulations to all those who are graduating, especially my very own brother (in-law).
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The Naked Ninja
i have been baffled all day long.
this morning after a short 4 hours of sleep- because i was up way too late working on a project for oldest daughter's teacher- middle daughter crawled into bed with me while the husband was in the shower. and she started chatting. because she wasn't tired anymore. and i glanced at the clock to see that i still had a good 45 minutes of possible sleep until i needed to wake oldest daughter for school. what a waste. of sleep, not mother/ daughter bonding time.
as she was snuggled up way too close (because everything is way too close that early in the morning) and pulling at my blanket and pillow, i heard a thud downstairs- similar to the sound i hear whenever our door leading to the garage shuts. just moments later our house alarm began blaring, having been triggered by something. the thud?
the husband was just stepping out of the shower and he sprinted downstairs, towel trailing behind, so that he could see what the problem might be.
i followed close behind, nervous, because i had no weapon in case i needed to beat up a bad guy- and i had recently clipped my fingernails. so, i had not even a fingernail weapon to use as a threat to any invader we might encounter. i was relying on the naked ninja and his mad fighting skills to fend off the enemy. because he has some. skills, not enemies.
i checked behind the bathroom door and in the pantry. which, i'm not gonna lie- kinda freaked me out. like, a lot. and the husband checked the garage and the living room. and we found nothing. but the garage door leading to the house was unlocked, which is unusual, because we make it a habit to lock all the doors before retiring for the night.
all i can think is that, as i was making my way to bed at 2 a.m. i forgot to lock the garage door. don't know how i could have forgotten, because i did set the alarm which is right by the door. and then all i can do to account for the thud i heard was that perhaps the wind blew the unlocked door open and sucked it shut. (it has happened before)
and then the husband left for work and i was reluctant to take a shower because anyone could have been hiding out in my house, just waiting. like in the toy box or something. but i finally did take a shower, and it turned out ok.
anyway, baffled. all day.
and kinda freaked out.
but not by the naked ninja.
i kinda liked that. not gonna lie.
this morning after a short 4 hours of sleep- because i was up way too late working on a project for oldest daughter's teacher- middle daughter crawled into bed with me while the husband was in the shower. and she started chatting. because she wasn't tired anymore. and i glanced at the clock to see that i still had a good 45 minutes of possible sleep until i needed to wake oldest daughter for school. what a waste. of sleep, not mother/ daughter bonding time.
as she was snuggled up way too close (because everything is way too close that early in the morning) and pulling at my blanket and pillow, i heard a thud downstairs- similar to the sound i hear whenever our door leading to the garage shuts. just moments later our house alarm began blaring, having been triggered by something. the thud?
the husband was just stepping out of the shower and he sprinted downstairs, towel trailing behind, so that he could see what the problem might be.
i followed close behind, nervous, because i had no weapon in case i needed to beat up a bad guy- and i had recently clipped my fingernails. so, i had not even a fingernail weapon to use as a threat to any invader we might encounter. i was relying on the naked ninja and his mad fighting skills to fend off the enemy. because he has some. skills, not enemies.
i checked behind the bathroom door and in the pantry. which, i'm not gonna lie- kinda freaked me out. like, a lot. and the husband checked the garage and the living room. and we found nothing. but the garage door leading to the house was unlocked, which is unusual, because we make it a habit to lock all the doors before retiring for the night.
all i can think is that, as i was making my way to bed at 2 a.m. i forgot to lock the garage door. don't know how i could have forgotten, because i did set the alarm which is right by the door. and then all i can do to account for the thud i heard was that perhaps the wind blew the unlocked door open and sucked it shut. (it has happened before)
and then the husband left for work and i was reluctant to take a shower because anyone could have been hiding out in my house, just waiting. like in the toy box or something. but i finally did take a shower, and it turned out ok.
anyway, baffled. all day.
and kinda freaked out.
but not by the naked ninja.
i kinda liked that. not gonna lie.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
The Good News and The Bad News
I have a few items of Good News/ Bad News business to attend to.
Should only take a minute.
Some people like the good news first and some like the bad news first.
I'll mix it up a bit.
The Good News is,
my brother and sister-in-law are the proud parents of a baby boy- arriving 3 weeks early.
The Bad News is,
they live in Kansas- so we won't get to give that cute little bundle any skwunches (don't know how to spell that one- and *squunches* looks way funny) for a while.
The Bad News is,
while I was driving on the crazy freeway the other night,
someone lost their BBQ grill out of the back of their truck.
I was right behind them.
The Good News is,
it didn't hit me. Or any of the other drivers,
but it did provide a fabulous spark display as it spun across three lanes of traffic.
The Good News is,
oldest daughter had her school Talent Show last night.
She did an excellent job playing "Popeye, the Sailor Man"
on piano.
The Bad News is,
no one told us it was a Talent Competition,
and prizes were handed out for the top 3 performers.
Oldest daughter didn't win- she was way sad.
I wish it had just been a Talent Show as advertised.
But, The Good News is,
it taught her a lesson about performing and enjoying the performance.
The Bad News is,
one of the speakers the husband had lined up for church tomorrow fell through.
The Good News is,
he found a replacement today.
The Bad News is,
it is me.
The Good News is,
tomorrow is Mother's Day.
The Bad News is,
I can never find a gift that truly equals the amount of love and appreciation and honor I feel for the mothers in my life.
The REALLY, REALLY, Bad News is,
the husband's car is broken.
It broke the day before I left for Women's Conference.
And he needed it, because I was taking our other car.
The Good News is,
he was able to use my mom's car while I was gone.
The Bad News is,
we received word on Thursday that the car will need a whole new engine.
The REALLY, REALLY Good News is,
we were on our way to pick up his new car when the mechanic called!
The Bad News is,
we couldn't talk him into getting the pink one.
Happy Mother's Day to all the Mothers in the world-
those with children and those who help mother other people's children!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
An Attempt at Doing Ms. Austen Proud or The Day I First Laid Eyes on the Hotness that is The Husband
In honor of having met the husband 13 years ago this week, I have tried my hand at a little Jane Austen. I am unworthy.
A young woman in her twenty-fourth year and un-betrothed is subject to the pity and scrutiny that others are wont to cast upon her. For such an aged young woman is without hope of finding a suitable match and as such might be cast to the side an old maid.
Providence generally shines on one in such a state but once in her life. And not wanting this particular young lady to miss her opportunity, Providence was readying itself for a brilliant shining.
The young woman of whom we speak attended to her studies at a University in the central valley of Utah proper, and made her residence at a quaint but tidy cottage christened the Dew Drop Inn. Nothing bold or daring ever came from this University. Nothing to draw attention from its aim at matriculating young men and women. And those who looked well to their studies often found themselves enjoying a bit of the companionship of others who held similar persuasions.
On the day that Providence was preparing its brilliant endowment our young lady arrived at her first class on the first day of the start of a new term and ten minutes prior to the arrival of the professor. Something that was uncommon for such a young woman, she found a suitable place to situate her person and busied herself in the study of her fellows as they entered the classroom.
This young woman was handsome, yet respectable- conducting herself with propriety- and was in the habit of dressing herself in the custom of the day, fashionable yet understated. She wore her hair long with tender curls and voluminous enough to meet the standards of the day. Most days she was a vision to behold with an attractive frame and lovely legs that carried her slender body gracefully wherever she went.
As she awaited the professor's arrival she took note of the queue of students already fifteen deep hoping to add this course to their schedules. And she recalled the conversation involving herself and her mother just the evening prior. She had telephoned her mother to address feelings of a personal nature. Such a personal nature that for this to be an enthralling tale, they must be shared openly and blatantly with whomever may chance to read. As is the case with women.
The young woman expressed fatigue at the closing of the semester and hopes of returning to Joaquin Court, the family estate, to spend her holiday. It is possible she may have expressed displeasure at not having shared a spring romance with a desirable gentleman. But one cannot be certain.
"Please, dear, remain for the new term and see if you can't make something of this semester's studies," her mother entreated.
"But I have not yet registered for any classes, nor do I find any that intrigue me, and classes commence tomorrow. If it were not for the deplorable condition of my vehicle, I should return at once to Joaquin Court and help you and father for the holiday- even if only for a fortnight," countered the young lady.
"Yes, but as it is, your vehicle is in no state for travel and you may as well take advantage of the graces of the University and continue your studies. Register at once for something and attend classes in the morning. Phone me tomorrow evening and we shall discuss your plans at that time. If you should decide to return to Joaquin Court we will then make the necessary arrangements," instructed the wise mother.
Obediently, the young woman searched the listing of courses offered and decided upon one suitable to her studies. She concluded registration at a late hour and retired for the evening.
As she was engaged in her reverie a soaring figure passed to her right in such a manner as to draw her out of her thoughts. A quick glance told the young woman that this was one gentleman she would be hard-pressed to attempt any thought at removing him-let alone his delicious buns- from her memory. At once this young woman was intrigued. And so she continued her delicate gaze as the handsome man took his seat just one in front and to the side of her own.
The professor made his entrance not long after and the lecture began. He tended to the task of turning away those who came hoping to add this course to their schedules, and the young woman counted herself fortunate in having obtained a seat for this session. He then made haste in distributing sage-colored copies of questionnaires aimed at gathering information from the students assembled.
As the young woman provided the solicited information, she kept a trained eye on the paper of the gentleman, hoping to ascertain his name and particulars- especially his estate and age. All information was provided and the young woman learned that he was two years her junior, having just returned from clergy-service in a parsonage quite removed from where they now sat not two seats apart. Not knowing if this would be a handsome match due to their age discrepancy, the young woman's spirits were a tad deflated yet she remained optimistic at her chances and looked forward to her next encounter with the gentleman.
On her journey home from classes the young woman felt light and giddy. Upon arriving at her cottage, she immediately phoned her mother and informed her that she had determined to remain at the University for the time being and see what she could make of the semester that stretched before her.
It being no secret that she had relished her first encounter with Providence.
to be continued...
A young woman in her twenty-fourth year and un-betrothed is subject to the pity and scrutiny that others are wont to cast upon her. For such an aged young woman is without hope of finding a suitable match and as such might be cast to the side an old maid.
Providence generally shines on one in such a state but once in her life. And not wanting this particular young lady to miss her opportunity, Providence was readying itself for a brilliant shining.
The young woman of whom we speak attended to her studies at a University in the central valley of Utah proper, and made her residence at a quaint but tidy cottage christened the Dew Drop Inn. Nothing bold or daring ever came from this University. Nothing to draw attention from its aim at matriculating young men and women. And those who looked well to their studies often found themselves enjoying a bit of the companionship of others who held similar persuasions.
On the day that Providence was preparing its brilliant endowment our young lady arrived at her first class on the first day of the start of a new term and ten minutes prior to the arrival of the professor. Something that was uncommon for such a young woman, she found a suitable place to situate her person and busied herself in the study of her fellows as they entered the classroom.
This young woman was handsome, yet respectable- conducting herself with propriety- and was in the habit of dressing herself in the custom of the day, fashionable yet understated. She wore her hair long with tender curls and voluminous enough to meet the standards of the day. Most days she was a vision to behold with an attractive frame and lovely legs that carried her slender body gracefully wherever she went.
As she awaited the professor's arrival she took note of the queue of students already fifteen deep hoping to add this course to their schedules. And she recalled the conversation involving herself and her mother just the evening prior. She had telephoned her mother to address feelings of a personal nature. Such a personal nature that for this to be an enthralling tale, they must be shared openly and blatantly with whomever may chance to read. As is the case with women.
The young woman expressed fatigue at the closing of the semester and hopes of returning to Joaquin Court, the family estate, to spend her holiday. It is possible she may have expressed displeasure at not having shared a spring romance with a desirable gentleman. But one cannot be certain.
"Please, dear, remain for the new term and see if you can't make something of this semester's studies," her mother entreated.
"But I have not yet registered for any classes, nor do I find any that intrigue me, and classes commence tomorrow. If it were not for the deplorable condition of my vehicle, I should return at once to Joaquin Court and help you and father for the holiday- even if only for a fortnight," countered the young lady.
"Yes, but as it is, your vehicle is in no state for travel and you may as well take advantage of the graces of the University and continue your studies. Register at once for something and attend classes in the morning. Phone me tomorrow evening and we shall discuss your plans at that time. If you should decide to return to Joaquin Court we will then make the necessary arrangements," instructed the wise mother.
Obediently, the young woman searched the listing of courses offered and decided upon one suitable to her studies. She concluded registration at a late hour and retired for the evening.
As she was engaged in her reverie a soaring figure passed to her right in such a manner as to draw her out of her thoughts. A quick glance told the young woman that this was one gentleman she would be hard-pressed to attempt any thought at removing him-let alone his delicious buns- from her memory. At once this young woman was intrigued. And so she continued her delicate gaze as the handsome man took his seat just one in front and to the side of her own.
The professor made his entrance not long after and the lecture began. He tended to the task of turning away those who came hoping to add this course to their schedules, and the young woman counted herself fortunate in having obtained a seat for this session. He then made haste in distributing sage-colored copies of questionnaires aimed at gathering information from the students assembled.
As the young woman provided the solicited information, she kept a trained eye on the paper of the gentleman, hoping to ascertain his name and particulars- especially his estate and age. All information was provided and the young woman learned that he was two years her junior, having just returned from clergy-service in a parsonage quite removed from where they now sat not two seats apart. Not knowing if this would be a handsome match due to their age discrepancy, the young woman's spirits were a tad deflated yet she remained optimistic at her chances and looked forward to her next encounter with the gentleman.
On her journey home from classes the young woman felt light and giddy. Upon arriving at her cottage, she immediately phoned her mother and informed her that she had determined to remain at the University for the time being and see what she could make of the semester that stretched before her.
It being no secret that she had relished her first encounter with Providence.
to be continued...
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Quenched
I don't believe I am going to pull any posts from my archives for a long, long time. Obviously those archives are not a very effective blog-sitter.
I have returned from two days of drinking deeply from a living well. I was fortunate enough to attend BYU Women's Conference with my 4 sisters and my mom and my mother-in-law. It was wonderful. I can't wait until next year.
I gained so much this year. I don't even know where to begin.
The majority of the classes I attended were geared toward parenting. Because lately I have felt like I am ruining my kids. Like- really ruining them. And so, I need direction. And it has been the object of my prayers for many weeks. I have a desire to raise quality human beings- ones who will contribute. To society. And whatever else they may choose to contribute to.
I was sitting in one particular class listening to an amazing speaker. One who I felt like we were sitting one-on-one and she was spoon-feeding me answers to questions that were weighing on me in regards to mothering my children. As I was listening, I began to believe that I knew this woman. And then I had a hunch (like Velma of Scooby Doo fame. she always had hunches.) that this speaker was the (follow me here) mother of the wife of the husband's oldest sister's son. So, my niece-in-law's mother. And she was. The mother of my cute niece (in-law).
And one of the best things she told me was to lay aside my cravings for sleep- because I love a good nap. And a good sleep-in. And to put away the things of the world (this blog). And to arise early for studying the scriptures. And to not be too quick to answer my children's questions, but to allow them to come to their own conclusions. And when they fall, teach them how to recover by teaching them about the atonement.
The speaker who followed her also hit on some amazing principles. One that I loved was that we should encourage our children to define themselves by their growing testimonies and not their sports abilities or talents. Brilliant!
She also quoted from a talk by President Ezra Taft Benson when he said
I have returned from two days of drinking deeply from a living well. I was fortunate enough to attend BYU Women's Conference with my 4 sisters and my mom and my mother-in-law. It was wonderful. I can't wait until next year.
I gained so much this year. I don't even know where to begin.
The majority of the classes I attended were geared toward parenting. Because lately I have felt like I am ruining my kids. Like- really ruining them. And so, I need direction. And it has been the object of my prayers for many weeks. I have a desire to raise quality human beings- ones who will contribute. To society. And whatever else they may choose to contribute to.
I was sitting in one particular class listening to an amazing speaker. One who I felt like we were sitting one-on-one and she was spoon-feeding me answers to questions that were weighing on me in regards to mothering my children. As I was listening, I began to believe that I knew this woman. And then I had a hunch (like Velma of Scooby Doo fame. she always had hunches.) that this speaker was the (follow me here) mother of the wife of the husband's oldest sister's son. So, my niece-in-law's mother. And she was. The mother of my cute niece (in-law).
And one of the best things she told me was to lay aside my cravings for sleep- because I love a good nap. And a good sleep-in. And to put away the things of the world (this blog). And to arise early for studying the scriptures. And to not be too quick to answer my children's questions, but to allow them to come to their own conclusions. And when they fall, teach them how to recover by teaching them about the atonement.
The speaker who followed her also hit on some amazing principles. One that I loved was that we should encourage our children to define themselves by their growing testimonies and not their sports abilities or talents. Brilliant!
She also quoted from a talk by President Ezra Taft Benson when he said
First, take time to always be at the crossroads when your children are either
coming or going--when they leave and return from school--when they leave and
return from dates--when they bring friends home. Be there at the crossroads
whether your children are six or sixteen. In Proverbs we read: "A child left
to himself bringeth his mother to shame" (Proverbs 29:15). Among the
greatest concerns in our society are the millions of latchkey children who
come home daily to empty houses unsupervised by working parents.
Anyway, I got a great drink and I am not as thirsty as I have been lately. It is wonderful! I feel like I can do this mom-thing for a few more days.
After all, it's a pretty great gig.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Under the Pillow
this post originally published November 6, 2008
What is the going rate for a tooth these days? I put in a call to the Tooth Fairy and she has not returned any messages. She must be pretty busy. Nevertheless a tooth has fallen and it must be redeemed. When it was loose, oldest daughter protected it like it was gold, so it must be worth a bunch.
This morning as we were reading scriptures and preparing for our day, the hanging tooth fell out. Finally. With very little provocation. Just as we kept telling oldest daughter it would if she would allow us to help it on its way.
Right now it is tucked securely under oldest daughter's pillow. She insists upon this.
You need to know that it took a little bit of work for that tooth to be the only item under oldest daughter's pillow.
For
"under the pillow"
is where the greatest treasures are kept.
*******************************
I don't know why. But this is how I found out: a few months ago I was changing oldest daughter's sheets. I lifted up her pillow and found beads and books. Ponies and pictures. Cards and a camera. I had to pause a moment to understand what all the trinkets were doing there. I couldn't wait to ask her about it. She told me that she keeps these things here to protect them because they are her favorite things.
And she sleeps with them there every night. So, this is how I know it was a chore to prepare the under the pillow space for the precious tooth. And when I returned from my meeting this evening, oldest daughter showed me the tooth. All alone under the pillow. And then she reassured me that all the other treasures had alternate accommodations for the evening. They are resting in the drawer of her night stand. A harder bed for sure, but one with no pressure from above. One thing is certain: I can imagine oldest daughter will have a more comfortable rest with only a tooth to contend with under the pillow.
Once when my older sister and her family spent the night at my house, she was to stay in the bedroom of oldest daughter. My sister questioned me about the trinkets under the pillow. We had forgotten to remove them before their stay. But my older sister, feeling un-adventurous and desirous for a good night's rest, was sensitive to the treasures of a six year old and found a suitable place for those treasures to pass the night. And they were returned to their under the pillow position as soon as she awoke.
When I was in the years of lost teeth, I never put my lost tooth (or anything for that matter) under the pillow. I just put it under a cup on the kitchen windowsill. That way I was sure it wouldn't get lost. (now having witnessed the special under the pillow spot, I know that it is impossible for things to get lost when placed under the pillow.) But, isn't it magic? That cute little fairy creeps in at night and exchanges money for your old tooth. The ones on the windowsill and the ones under the pillow.
So, I imagine the Tooth Fairy will quietly enter oldest daughter's room at any moment and claim that little front tooth. She will be grateful for the relocation of all the other toys, making the tooth the only treasure to be found under the pillow. And she will take that tooth and deposit a little reward.
And then, what does the Tooth Fairy do with those fallen teeth? Does she keep every tooth? Or does she just keep the first tooth a child loses? These are things that I wonder. Into the night.
And if I could,
I would take my little ones
and tuck them all under my pillow.
Because now I know
that's how you protect all your greatest treasures.
*************************************************
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