My Adventures in Motherhood

2012-01-29T08:33:00.003-07:00

Britt and her guard skillz! She made this as her talent for the Seminary talent show.
And being the embarrassing mom I am

I had to share!

I am so proud!

My family

2012-01-25T20:18:00.001-07:00

2012-01-23T13:15:00.001-07:00

Last spring Ashley was going through a personal trial and needed spiritual guidance I couldn't give her. I was at a loss on how to help so we went to the temple. We talked, cried, and shared our feelings and decided we needed to come more often. We also decided it was the perfect spot to do Personal Progress. She had already gotten her medallion but Brittany had not and so we would help her work on her goals.

We decided on Sunday nights.

So for nine months, give or take a fireside, we have gone to the temple. Sometimes we work on Personal Progress, sometimes we just walk and talk. No matter what we do, we admire and talk about what the temple means to us. And I must admit it has taken on a whole new meaning for me since we started this. To me it is a reminder of the person I want to be, the people I want my children to be and a place I can feel the spirit no matter what my circumstances are. And Heavenly Father does love me. And it is a safe place where me and my girls can talk about anything.

I noticed this year that when the Christmas lights went up, it is only on the visitors center side. The actual temple grounds are bare. It reminded me that the temple does not need any lights. It is special all by itself!

It was just what Ashley needed and Brittany too. And I must admit it has been great for me. In Stake conference they talked about if we are letting our kids know how important the temple is to them. I can honestly say I am... at least the girls! Now I need to work with the boys!!!

What to be when you grow up...

2012-01-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

What are you going to be when you grow up?

I am still deciding myself.

I always wanted to be a mom...

I even joined the future teachers of America club in high school

but you have to have good grades

and I seemed to always have other things on my mind than grades

again ...youth wasted on the young!

well, I asked my children what they wanted to be when they grew up

Cortney is as clueless as I am... maybe a teacher

Ashley wants to study in massage therapy and then go on to study in event planning - specializing in wedding planning (she is my most driven!)

Brittany is still interested on archetectual design.

Zach wants to design video games and write novels and act

Joey wants to be a demolition expert who also works part time as a pizza delivery guy....while driving a motorcycle

Mackenzie wants to be a ballerina, make movies, or be a pop star.

We will see.....

2012-01-16T18:08:00.001-07:00

Joey went bowling with his friend Luke and they took pics. I laughed so hard and I had to share!

Joey and the car trunk

2012-01-16T07:33:00.000-07:00

Joey never ceases to surprise me. When I think he can't do anything else really ~~stupid~~ strange, he goes and does it.

This time he, his older brother, and his cousin were having a nerf gun war in the back yard at my mom's house The older boys were ganging up on Joey, which happens quite a bit, of course. And his older cousin got into trouble for hitting Joey. (His dad reminded him that there are so many things you can shoot at. Trees, rocks, the fence. Try to avoid the little boy.)

Well, Joey felt bad because he got his cousin into trouble so he decided to go serve his penance in the car. He also figured he would sit in the trunk. And then he popped it open and saw all of the newspapers but wondered if he would fit in the small space. But he had to close the lid just to make sure. Well, he did, just harder than he anticipated and the trunk locked.

So we have little Joey who crammed himself into a small space in the trunk with the lid tightly closed. The newspapers blocked the exit from the seat. He did find a screw driver and tried to pry the door open. It didn't work.

45 minutes after my nephew was repremanded, Tami and I went outside to talk about in private and we heard some strange noices coming from my trunk. We quickly found out it was Joey and ran inside to get the keys.

After opening it, we found the little boy huddled in a small confined space with tears streaming down his face. He held on to my neck and cryed and then tried explain his situation in between gasps of air. He was very brave and promised me he would NEVER lock himself in the trunk again.

When we got home, I caught him praying in the family room, thanking his Heavenly Father for being rescued. It was a profound way to end he situation.
And I have decided I need to keep a better eye on my son when he is at grandmas house. Too many tempting situations that can prove dangerous for my imaginative fellow.

Cortney

2012-01-03T14:45:00.000-07:00

Christmas has come and gone again. Why is it that every year it does that? Just when you are about to really enjoy the season, it is done and then you gotta clean it up!
The only sign I have of Christmas is a wreath above the fireplace.
oops
forgot about that one!

Cortney came home and we had a nice talk and she decided it was time.
She is coming home!
She is having a difficult time there and so she is moving back and will finish the rest of the school year here. I
(She is even talking about going on a mission! shhh, that is a secret!)

So this thursday, as planned, I will put her on a plane to Salt Lake and she will shuttle up to Logan and start packing. Friday morning me and whomever comes with me, (it's still a debate we are discussing. I like to think it is my company they are debating on and not the opportunity to miss one more day of school in the name of family service. but I will live in my little bubble and actually believe the 1st!) Oh, yeah, we will travel up to Logan to retrieve her stuff. And then, hopefully, be back in time for Sunday dinner at Grandmas.

I am pleased she is coming home. Mostly, so she will get the support she desires and I will be around to help her in what areas she is struggling in. And it will be nice to have my family together again.

Matt

2011-12-23T08:11:00.003-07:00

Funny story about my nephew. Matt is in the Navy and has been stationed on the east coast for over two years. He and Ashley have become very good friends and she texts him ALL THE TIME.

He has been transfered to San Diego and decided to visit family on the way there. So, bravely, I let Ashley drive almost three hours south to Benson to visit her cousin all by herself. I don't think I like this new "I'm 18 and I am an adult now" stage. She was only gone for two days but she had a great time and was back in time for finals on Monday.

Matt reported to his base and then informed Ashley that he was being shipped to Singapore for 4 months. There would be no calls on international water. So he would talk to her in 4 months.
She was very sad at this news.

Then yesterday at 5 pm she received a call from him saying he would be at Grandmas house in an hour. It was all a practical joke! He was just giving her a hard time and she believed it! She was mad! (As mad as you can get without REALLY being mad!)

After a long visit at Grandmas, Matt took her out to dinner. He left San Diego so fast that he was still in his uniform. Well, someone paid for their dinner because he was a soldier. He felt uncomfortable about this since he was only stationed in South Carolina, but I thought it was so sweet!

Now Ashley is off to Benson again and will be back Christmas eve.

my weekend part two

2011-12-12T20:09:00.004-07:00

The theme for Winter Formal was the Polar Express.

while I was splashing around in my house, Our excellent friend Shesten took the kids to the train tracks for these awesome pics. Ashley said her group was the best! And they all seemed to really enjoy themselves!

Ashley and her date, Tyler.

My favorite pic!

my weekend part one

2011-12-12T14:29:00.001-07:00

Busy weekend. Travis is off to Sacramento to spend some time with his dad and brothers.

Why is it that the fun always happens when one of us is out of town?

For instance, it was Christmas Formal and Ashley is having her group come back to the house to play games after pictures were taken. Brittany had a few friends come over earlier in the day to make cookies (and flirt.... come on! I knew what you were up to..not born yesterday)
Well, Brittany sent Mackenzie to time out in her room. I am not sure why. I was helping Ashley get ready.
Anyway, I get back and Mackenzie is still in her room. Britt and Co are on the couch. Joey and Zach were in the back yard doing strange boy stuff and Mackenzie came out telling everyone she peed in the bowl because she was in time out.
After I scolded her a bit, I sent her to the bathroom to clean out the bowl. I sent Ashley on her way, she looked beautiful!, and started making scalloped potatoes for the ward party that night.
15 minutes later.....
Zach yells for me to come to the bathroom. Sweet Mackenzie forgot to turn the water off after she cleaned out the bowl and the sink was clogged... there was water everywhere.... about 1/4 inch of it down the hallway, trickeling down into the sunken living room, where a puddle was already forming. We quickly turned off the water, dislodged the clog, and I tried really, really hard to not yell at Mackenzie.
I gotta say right now how thankful I am I don't have carpet. I really, really to get some but am so pleased I don't have any!

We got towels, mops, wet/dry vac, and lots of time and cleaned all the water up. Britt had to leave to help take pictures for Ashley. I barely got the potatoes off the stove before they went mushy. And we had it all cleaned us just as the dance group go back to the house to play games!

And Mackenzie is no longer allowed to spend time out in her room! And she knows, knows, KNOWS she has to turn the water off when she is done!

2011-11-20T19:09:00.001-07:00

being the observant person I am, I finally noticed this poor looking branch sticking out of the ground in my flower bed. It looks to be a branch torn off the tree from the side yard.

Potting soil is carefully packed around the torn edges and a little blanket is lovingly wrapped around the bottom.

Mackenzie.

I think I will take her with me to buy some flowers and explain how plants grow from seeds and not torn off tree branches.

I hope I don't break her heart.

red lights

2011-11-19T07:02:00.001-07:00

In Arizona if you are caught running a red light (and I mean by those stupid, dumb, icky cameras they have) you have to take a mandatory traffic class.

Yep! I learned that the hard way and today I get to spend ALL day in class while my family goes to the Franklin Fall Festival without me.

Gonna be a blast!

it is over! (long dramatic pause)

2011-11-18T08:07:00.001-07:00

Marching band is over. Yep, this means I have time to do the things I should be doing. Like laundry, dishes and cleaning my bathrooms (can I say I already miss marching season?)

The uniform closet is cleaned out, although when you walk in you still get a whiff of adolescence (and I am talking about the downside of adolescence!) All that awaits is the semi-annual trip to the cleaners.

My job is done.

The show was great this year! everyone worked so hard! And I think it being Ashley's last year was kind of hard on her. It made me sad too watching all the seniors who I have had the privilege to get to know these last three years hang up their uniforms and be done. I remember when I was in guard and the band had become so much of my family and my life. These kids have invested even more time and I can see the bittersweet feelings they are struggling with. But we still have half a year, concerts, other competitions, full orchestra, and jazz band to look forward to.

And I am coming back next year. After all, no one else wants the job as uniform specialist. And Britt has decided she likes twirling the flag and hopes to do the same with a rifle. (yeah, as long as she does it away from me. Rifles are attracted to me and my knobby head!)

Well, November is here and Cort is going to be 20! Yes, she is no longer a teen. .... having a hard time believing that. Someone keeps teasing me about being a grandma soon but I don't have to worry cuz she is still in the 'boys are stupid' phase and I am okay with that.

I still think she should go on a mission. She would be so good at it! I think she is even thinking about it!

Ashley is in the middle front and Brittany on far right.

2011-10-08T12:22:00.001-07:00

kind of bummed

it was time for for our Ward Campout up at Camp LoMIA and Travis took the little ones with him

Ash, Britt, and I stayed here

We have a competition today. One we need to qualify for.

So we stay.

I love camping with my family especially at LoMIA.

Dang!

Mesa High 1st band comp

2011-10-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

this is the show so far. I know I am not in the marching band but those uniforms are my responsibility and those kids filling those uniforms are awesome and I get a kick hanging out with them, not to mention two of those flag-throwing girls happen to really be mine.

And I am one of those silly parents who BREATHs marching band. Yeah, there really are those insanely odd people who actually do that. You know, the kind of people who save their pennies just to turn around and buy a ticket to whatever band competition is going on that weekend. And then they leave the stands only to water down the band kids and see if any help is needed, making that ticket they spent money on useless because they would have gotten in free if they had used their noggin.....

Okay, this is the Mesa High's marching bands 1st competition and they are not done yet. But I think they look fabulous!!!

The Principal's Office

2011-09-12T09:06:00.002-07:00

I was so proud of the fact that my older children made it through school without the Principal knowing who they are.

Well Mr. Souder, the Principal of Mesa High, knows Ashley because of the marching band. But that is not what I am referring to.

No, I mean the kind where your child's name is put on the 'naughty list'.

(they say they don't have one but we all know that is SO NOT TRUE!!!)

Well, if you have not guessed yet my little man made it to the list.

Yep

Joey has spent his fair share of time in the Principal's office these past two weeks and been involved in in-school suspension.

I don't know what to do with him.

Thoughts of hanging him by his toenails have crept up, but CPS frowns on that.

He is disrespectful to his teacher and does mean things to her, like screaming 'I hate you' or signing mean jestures to her.

(Don't worry. Their ones he made up himself and not ones he picked up from the playground!)

I don't know what to do with him.
Wait.

I've already said that.

My dad says just love them. It is so going to be a long year.

Pray for me. No, pray for him and his toenails!!!

Visit with Cortney

2011-09-06T06:29:00.001-07:00

Loved seeing Cortney!!! Loved seeing my brothers and their families, who were both kind and so generous. One let me stay with him while the other let me borrow his jeep.

We saw Bear Lake, USU campus, Evanston, Wyoming, and managed to get lost without really getting lost (Salt Lake is not the same Slat Lake I remember 20 years ago) Even Utah County is almost unrecognizable. We went to Temple Square and even visited the Salt Lake City Cemetery (I know what your thinking. We ARE party animals!)

And we had an amazing dinner with Laura's in-laws, who are headed to France as I type this. They immigrated 20 years ago and I love to listen to them speak! Very nice people! And a great visit with my niece! She has changed so much and I love watching how the Church is forming her into the person she is becoming!

Best of all was spending time with my daughter. Part of me wanted to pack up her stuff and move her home but I know that is where she belongs for now. She is learning and growing and I can't really ask for more. (well, I can but that is for another day and another topic and probably for my therapist, Good old #7 on speed dial!)

And I like it better when the whole crew is around, the fighting, the bickering, the teasing, the strange, adorable comments coming from the little ones. And I think Cortney missed that too!

I look forward to going again but this time maybe not visiting Boise, ID or Vegas courtesy of Southwest Airlines (unless I can stay longer than 15 min.)

Brittany Turns 15!

2011-08-31T07:16:00.000-07:00

Yep, it is August 31st, the 15th aniversary of Brittany's birth! (yeah, that last comment might have granted me my wish to finally embarrass my daughter! happy day!)

She is a wonderful daughter.

She flirts way to much for her own good.

Her skin looks so much better than it ever has

And she actually tans unlike her sisters and I

that get freckily and red

Her smile can light up a room

as well as her laughter!

She is a treasure from heaven

I thank God for every day

and I cherish every moment,

every giggle,

and look forward to many, many more!

Happy Birthday, Itty Bitty!

I love you!

school has started

2011-08-22T09:34:00.001-07:00

Well, school is into it's second full week and I am loving/hating it!

First I must admit I miss the noisy madness that is my little family.
For instance, Mackenzie and Joey are living their lives as a musical.

No joke.

Mackenzie breaks into song periodically during the day. She makes the songs up herself and even dances to them. Quite amusing, although if you are caught laughing things get a little dicy!

For example, we fed the missionaries Saturday night and they even got a taste of one of her songs
(had to quickly interrupt her song so they could continue with their message. Poor thing!)

Joey has even serenated his teacher already.
Thank heavens for sweet elementary teachers who put up with and love our little ones!

Feeding the missionaries was fun! Travis told me about it when my mind was elsewhere and I had no idea they were coming. They came late because of a baptism and we had to run and get pizza so they wouldn't starve...
(Thank goodness Little Ceasars has some hot and waiting!)

The worst part is the girls were not home. They were off ice skating for the seminary social. But they did show up later with 6 others in tow to watch a move but instead they recieved a message from the missonaries! Great way to end the day! They all stayed and enjoyed the movie and played some games after. The boys even had their nails painted. lol.

And marching band is in full swing. We have props ready and are working on a few uniform changes. That is taking a lot of my time, thank goodness. The job I was supposed to have fell through and now there is not much going on around here.

I am ready to disconnect all texting abilities on my children's phones, (okay, really that is just Ashley and mine but Britt uses it after school so don't even bother trying to get a hold of me in the evenings.) I remember when I was a kid and we actually talked using our voices. It isn't hard. It's actually fun and easy to do. Why won't the try?

Lightening, Maricopa County sheriffs dept and their k9 units

2011-08-04T07:18:00.000-07:00

Last night me and the little ones were practicing our phonograms when the older kids returned from mutual. They came running into the house with news. Across the street in the vacant house that is being flipped there are ten + sheriff vehicles parked and the deputies are gathered on the front lawn.

Wow! Nothing big has happened on our street for such a long time and us being concerned citizens (in other words, just plain nosy) went out front to investigate further.

So while my little ones were being babysat by Phineas and Ferb and a screaming Candace, Ash, Britt and I took our regular seats on Ashley's swing and began our observation.

Deputy and dog go in with flashlight.

They look around.

They come out.

Could it be drugs?

Is someone in there?

Could it be something more sinister?

These and many other thoughts are circling our little swing.

All the while Mother nature will not be outdone by the Sheriff's office.

The lightening storm is beautiful!

No rain, though.

Our relief society President drives by, circles and then pulls into our driveway.

We joke about what might be happening.

Brittany says she wants to pet one.

The dog, not the deputy, she clarifies.

(I love Britt.)

Finally Travis comes home about an hour later. He is the brave one amongst us chickens to go across the street and ask what if going on.

Training.

Yep, that is it. All that waiting and observing, and being nosy only to find out it was a training exercise.

But hey, we got a great lightening storm out of it, silly time with my girls, and the little ones got some great ideas on what to do today from those who know best!

Brittany

2011-08-02T10:28:00.001-07:00

Brittany has developed a social life!

Yeah, I am not worried at all.

She loves going to the stake dances and even has a special guy friend

as opposed to an actual boyfriend.

Because she is way too young for that.

And best of all she keeps me informed about it all,

.....................................

I am pretty sure.

(hey, let me live in my dream world. it's such a nice place)

It is so cute watching her become a young lady and I am so proud of her

and best of all she still lets me cuddle with her still.

Band camp 2011

2011-07-30T14:59:00.002-07:00

It is the first year we have freshman at Mesa High! Wonderful, great, omyheck... they are so young and silly!

I only say this because Brittany is one of them. Yes, I managed to convince my daughter to do colorguard! She was going to do dance but I explained to her that marching band is the same thing! (not quite, but she bought it!)

So now I have two girls in colorguard. Ashley is the captain again this year and we have 12 girls! I am the colorguard mom, whatever that means. Actually it means I get to make sure everything runs smoothly. Starting with props. Hopefully they will turn out great. I will keep you informed on that

I am also the uniform specialist! What does that mean you ask? I get to deal with all the maddnes that goes with fitting, hemming and keeping uniforms organizied. IF you were to see my house you would think it is a lost cause but no, so far it is going great! (Then again, it is only the first WEEK!)

Now I get to tell you about my sister. She loves her son. She really does! It is so cute to watch her freak out over poor Josh who will be 15 next month. On thursday while I was finishing up measuring a few kids, she came in to see if she could help. I was almost done and getting ready to head to pack meeting so I didn't need her help. But there she was! Then she asked for Josh's measurements. We have over 85 kids so I couldn't remember for the life of me what they were but I gave her the measuring tape to help herself. And she did. Poor guy. No one else's mother was measuring them in front of the whole band. And then she wanted to know how long his legs were so she chased him down yet again with the measuring tape! I left the room trying not to laugh and thinking how great Josh is to humor his mom. Zach would have glared at me and sent me on my way.

That is it for now. I might even have pics next time. ALL of my cameras are broken! .... I love kids!

Wisdom teeth take 1

2011-07-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

Ashley had her wisdom teeth taken out on Tuesday. I know it was a small out-patient surgery but the whole thing was a bit unnerving.

Her friend was a doll and text me the whole time. I was so busy texting that I wasn't paying attention and the time went by so fast and the next thing you know she was done.

She was so groggy she had tears running down her face and looked miserable.

And then her meds are not working. Vicotin usually does a great job of keeping you loopy but they do nothing for her.

She prefers ibuprofin and Tylenol.

Poor, poor thing!

And she looks like a little chipmunk storing food for the winter in her cheeks.

I would take a picture

but.....

I get to go through five more sets of wisdom teeth.

Oh, joy!

Another Joey moment

2011-07-05T15:24:00.000-07:00

During church onSunday monring, Joey came back from his three trips to the bathroom during Sacrament with a pair of vampire teeth.

We asked him where he got them and said a lady in back gave them to him.

Later that day he finally admitting to finding them in the bathroom. He tried them on to make sure they fit and then he cleaned them just in case.

My son is sick! If not, he should be. Looks like I need another cleanliness lesson.Wish me luck!

The Fourth of July Parade 2011

2011-07-05T15:19:00.001-07:00

We went to Benson this weekend for Caden's baptism. It was very nice.

We stayed for the Fourth of July's festivities that included a parade. It was fun!

The Barneys are really sweet and let the kids ride on the trailer from the car lot. They get t-shirts and a prime spot in the parade where they can throw otter pops. A fun event!

Mackenzie has been talking about it for weeks.

The trailer loaded up!

Britt and Dani riding on the top of the truck, enjoying the weather and looking for cute guys!!!

It was a success!

Hot dogs, watermelon, and soda waited when we were done,

Every year this is what they do

And sometimes we get to go.

The weather was cooperating, not too, too hot (at least in the shade).

But I gotta tell you I was kind of disappointed at the amount of tractors. There was only 10!

Usually there is over 20 but not this year. I was disappointed...

really.

I like seeing the differences of the tractors, the color,

(the candy, but there were no kids to pretend to pick them up for)

this was one of my favorites!!!

There were much more trailers pulling organizations. They even had a band. Very cool! And then the big trailer carrying the trucks turns the corner and there are ALL the Barneys, waving, the little ones with white shirts stained from their own personal otter pop that leaked.

Then there is Ashley holding down a few little girls who are super excited and about to pop out of the truck... literally!

And then there was Randy. Yes, he decided to be Ashley's personal match making service. Oh, and with Randy nothing is small. He inlisted his brothers and his son in on the caper and the next thing you know, The young gentleman was seated next to Ashley on the truck.

Poor Ashley

Poor Seth.

They were both good sports about it and seemed to get along pretty well. Everyone got a good laugh at it and it was nice to see Ashley smiling again.

Randy, his dad, and his brothers (and Dakota, of course). They were all in on it!

After the parade. Thank goodness there was hot dogs and soda!

That was the day. Then traveling home before the rain caught up with us.

We ended the day watching a few fireworks and then the lightening in the skies as they gave their own show.

2011-06-30T20:20:00.000-07:00

So a transformer expoded in Mesa around 11:45 am, leaving a big black smoky mess! It was bad!

We lost power at 2 pm. In fact 80,000 people lost power.

I can't figure out why it took so long for us to loose power.

It was kind of cool, except for the fact my kids were pumped up by the excitement

....or upset because electricity runs ALL their toys and they had no idea what to do.

I told them to read a book

Blank stares....That is gonna change!

Thank goodness Walmart (the Greenfield one) had power.

That is where we spent an hour.

Wayyy fun!

Power is on now and all is well,

Except for the poor transformer.

crazy husband moment

2011-06-28T21:03:00.001-07:00

Travis is a coupon freak! No joke! At the water cooler at work he gathers with the women to discuss what is on sale that week and which coupons are like gold!

Well, (all the silliest stories start that way) he got a great deal on bacon. I'm talking 30 packages of bacon await my family in the freezer for a later date.

Anyway, Miss Cortney was headed home and noticed the many packages of bacon and wanted to take some home with her. She and her father snugly placed them in her suitcase amongst her shoes, shirts, and pants, and whatever else she brought with her.

Later that night, after arriving in Salt Lake, she started unpacking her things at my brother's house. When she opened the suitcase, she noticed a paper that said her bag had been searched at the airport. I guess the bacon threw off the dogs and they had to figure out what was going on. Can you imagine what they thought when they came across the bacon?

I am still laughing, wondering if the airport workers get together and share odd stories of what people pack in their suitcases. And guessing bacon is probably one of the tame ones! What stories they have to share!

Oh yeah. The bacon survived the plane, the search, and eventually made it to the skillet where Cortney enjoyed it with her cousins,

And she thought bacon ice cream was funny!

2011-06-28T08:08:00.001-07:00

We took Ashley in today to discuss having her wisdom teeth extracted. She didn't turn too blue when they told her she would be put to sleep in order to take all four of them out. And the money won't be that bad, not really. But while all of this was being discussed, Mackenzie went for a walk without telling us.

We were finally making the appointment when, very quietly, I heard a soft high-pitched voice that sounded vaguely like my daughter's. I followed the sound around the corner to where the patient's rooms are.There was my little angel standing in the nurses station, wearing purple laytex gloves that were way too big as the nurse was showing her what color of toothbrushes she had. And she actually picked one out! I was so embarrassed.

I apologized profusely and led my little klepto out to the desk where she was supposed to be waiting with me! She was just volunteering to help. The sweet nurse made her feel like she was actually helping! Some people are so sweet!

What am I going to do with her?

Meanwhile, Ashley goes under on July 7th.

The Southwest Drum and Bugle Corps

2011-06-23T06:04:00.000-07:00

Last night Ashely and I attended the 10th anniversary of the Academy, Phoenix's own drum and bugle corp, at Dobson High school, one of the high schools in Mesa.

In fact, Mesa High hosted one of the teams, the Blue Devils from Concord, California. They practiced on our field and slept in our cafeteria and auditorium. Brave souls!

They are in the middle of their Southwest tour. They came from New Mexico on Tuesday and I think are headed to California today.

They were very good!

The colorguard was amazing! The music was wonderful!

And the drummers were hot!

...No, literally.

It was the hottest day so far!

And silly me, half way through the night I realized the only instruments out there were one form or another of a horn! No flutes, no clarinets. Ashley laughed, patted my shoulder, and said

Ya, mom. That's why it is called the 'Drum and Bugle corp"

But then I brought up the fact that they have flags too.

Then I got that look that said 'poor, poor mom. Just sit there and smile and maybe she will stop talking.'

Yes, I still have so much to learn!

But now Ashley wants to be in the Academy next year. $3000 for the summer season.

Yep, I am sitting here, smiling and not saying a word.

Summer is here

2011-06-16T11:04:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and I must admit I really can't tell. Britt is doing Team Up For Success at Mesa High (a class to help kids become acclimated with the school), Joey and Mackenzie are in summer school, And Zach is right in the middle of summer band. He switched instruments and is now playing the tenor saxaphone as opposed to the alto sax. There is a difference in sound but mostly in rental price! But hey, what else are kids for but to empty your wallets on a daily basis.

Ashley is busy down in Benson. She was only supposed to be there for a week but Debbie needed her a little bit longer so she stayed another week. I can't wait til she comes home. In fact, this last weekend all of my big girls were gone. Britt went to Vegas with Tami's family and Cort left for home on the 8th. (I say home only because Logan is where she needs to be. And she is most happy there.... dang it!)

It was wierd having only three kids running about. And I really didn't care for it.

Joey turned 9 on the 14th. He is older, but not much taller though. I am wondering when that kicks in, the growing taller part. I only hope we can move out of size six pants! At least he is still taller than his little sister! Anyway, he had a great day. We went to lunch with one of his best buds and then to a movie. Britt said I was very patient with the kaos that is my family, especially in public. Such a nice compliment! Of course I don't think she realized she was grouped in with the kaos.

One more week of summer school and then I have three weeks of sleeping in, staying up late, listening to complaints that there is nothing to do, threatening them with summer homework if they don't stop whining, turning off the game system, then going into the other room to turn off that gaming system, just to repeat it over and over til nighttime. . . Yep, looking forward to it!

Laura's Wedding

2011-06-16T10:59:00.000-07:00

The wedding of Samuel Delavoye and Laura Clawson.

June 4, 2011 1p.m.

The wedding was great! Because of the rain, plans were changed and the reception was held at the stake center instead of the Mormon Center next to the Sacremento Temple.

After we helped decorate the cultural hall at midnight, Ashley and Laura stayed up almost the rest of the night to get her hair straightened so they could turn around and curl it again. It took forever but it was a lot of fun! She was a very beautiful bride! The couple are moving to Provo, Utah so Sammy can go to BYU. (I cannot pronounce his last name so please don't ask. I know his family is from France.) And the two will be sealed in the temple sometime in January or February. So excited for both of them!

Mackenzie loves dancing with Daddy

My lovely girls

Dancing

Laura and Mackenzie.

Laura Dancing with her dad. So cute!

Grandma Clawson with the older girls.

Old Sacramento

2011-06-16T10:34:00.000-07:00

We went to Sacramento for Laura's wedding, picking up Ashley and Brittany from Girls camp a few days early. It was great to see Laura. She spent most of the day before with us as we toured old Sacramento, which is a pretty cool place if you haven't been before. The old buildings are still there but they have turned it into a tourist trap. But since I am a tourist it is just fine by me.

Brotherly love

Cortney and Laura enjoying themselves, not getting freaked out that the wedding was the next day

I was hoping this sign was a hint.... that she also needs to clean up after herself when she cooks!

Masks at the costume store

Even more masks. I had more pics but they were deleted. I was even wearng one. That one I am not so sad about loosing.

When Travis and I first met we had pictures taken in this spot. We had to do it again with the whole bunch of them.

It was a great day! We finished it off at a parking lot carnival. Too many spinning rides. It totally cured me!

And lets not forget the ferris wheel!

Late mothers day tribute

2011-05-14T07:11:00.001-07:00

I figured in honor of mothers day I would write something about my mom. It has been over a year since my mom finally came home from the hospital. She is so much better. She can get herself from the wheelchair to the van all by herself, a big accomplishment. She is walking with her walker so much better than before. She is happier and doing very well. She will never really walk again and often gets depressed because of that fact but overall has improved greatly over the last year. Her favorite things to do is watch NCIS, anything John Wayne, old musicals (which I like too) and do projects made of plastic canvas. But most of all she loves to talk about her family.

My mom grew up in Salt Lake City, on a street where the majority were her aunts and uncles, which was a blessing because her father was killed in a car accident when she was 4. She says they would call it Camelot. It had its share of family crisis, but there was no other place she would rather be. She had four extra mothers and four extra fathers who were her mom's eyes and ears and she got away with nothing.

My mom will spend hours talking about playing in the concrete mixer with her cousin, working in the apple orchird with Grandpa, and mostly of my wonderful Grandma who managed to live on after loosing her most dearest companion. The stories are the same. I probably could tell you most of them at the drop of a hat, but they make my mom happy retelling and talking about them. And I really do love hearing them and wishing for an afternoon on 'Camelot' to observe for myself the family I have heard so much of.

Happy Mothers Day, Mom!

Another Joey moment

2011-04-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

A year ago Travis put two lockers into the boys room to store their stuff. They are about the same size Jordan High had in the halls when I went to high school in Sandy, Utah, not to be confused with the box-like ones offered at Mesa before they were yanked out, never to be seen again.

They are a mess. My boys need to take a class on organization. Ok, so I need to take the class. Lol

(Yeah, I know. Back to my story)

The day before my story begins Joey found his handcuffs. They were stored above the fridge. You know the place, at the very top where dust bunnies thrive and multiply, where everything stays until someone hops on a chair and excavates the area once in a blue moon. Yeah, that place. It is the home of Joey's handcuffs.... and I will tell you why.

My niece Jamie came to play and Joey decided he wanted to play cops and robbers. Of course he forgot to mention this little tidbit of information to Jamie so, needless to say, she was pretty shocked when handcuffs were placed on her wrists. Screaming and wailing began and Joey promptly removed the cuffs and locked himself into his room hoping to avoid judge and jury. Didn't work. Handcuffs were placed in the locker not to be touched until the next day.

The next morning five minutes before we were to leave for school I was collecting children and shoes.

Funny how they are never together.

When I went to Joey's room, he was not there. I turned to leave and heard a clank. I looked around and noticed the sound coming from the lockers. The little guy had locked himself into the locker. I opened the door. He smiled at me sheepishly and I asked him what was going on. He smiled and said he couldn't get out.

To be honest I am surprised it took him that long to actually lock himself in there in the first place. It turns out he was pretending it was a jail. And I am even happier he did not decide to put Jamie in "jail" last night! I could never have explained to Cathy why her 4 year old daughter had handcuffs on and was stuffed into a locker.

And Joeys handcuffs are back where they belong, on top of the refrigerator... next to the dust bunnies and appliances I never use!

Easter pageant 2011

2011-04-15T19:32:00.000-07:00

My Brother Jeff and Lauren are visiting for the weekend. They are staying with her grandparents and wanted to see the pageant with us. Lauren has never seen it before and really wanted to. They and her grandparents even brought a non-member friend along.

Ashley and I waited almost three hours to make sure we got great seats so they could really enjoy it.

The pageant started at 8 pm and it was dark and getting kind of nippy. So I am sitting there with no jacket on, tryng to hold Mackenzie in my lap because she wants to cuddle, stay warm, and watch the pagent all at the same time. And of course she has to move her head this way and that so I can't really see.

And I am thinking to myself, 'I wish I was alone so I could really enjoy this'.

And then Jesus calls his little ones to gather around him. And the little ones do and Mackenzie reaches up and kisses me on the cheek and tells me she loves me.

And I watch as Jesus hugs the litte ones and they run off to their parents and Kenz holds on a little tighter and I thank my lucky stars that I have one cold shoulder and a bony little bottom cutting off the circulation to my legs because I have her. I was reminded at that moment that my greatest accomplishment is all around me, from my Ashley who is awkwardly trying to go on a "date" with a new guy (oh, yeah. She is single now), with Brittany and my niece Danni teasing her endlessly, and Joey sitting next to Ashley wiping his pizza-covered face on the blanket she brought to keep him warm. (oh yeah, that is Ashley's too. And she was not pleased with that bit of news) And to Zach, who is sitting at the end with his dad, spilling root beer all over him and his blanket.

They are children of Heavenly Father. They are just like the little ones Jesus gathered around him.

The rest of the pagent was brilliant. Mackenzie hid her face when they captured Jesus up until he was on the cross. My niece Emily cried. The spirit and the production really touched the kids and, I must admit, to me as well.

Lauren, Jeff's wife, was very impressed with it. She said it was beyond her expectations. And the event was great and I look forward to seeing it again.. or listening to it as I bob my head back and forth trying to see past tiny little red head.

Joey's school emeny

2011-04-08T16:01:00.000-07:00

There is a little girl in Joey's class who does not like Joey.

(I don't know why)

Joey says this girl hates his whole body...his guts, his eyeballs, his extra guts. (I am dying to know where he stores these extra guts) She even hates his feet.... and she thinks he is discusting and gross. The good news is that was all. There is nothing else she hates.

Joey is so descriptive. Anyone who knows Joey knows his facial expressions say it all. And every facial feature said this was serious.

I had the hardest time not laughing.

Which is uncool when your mom laughs at your worstest problem in the whole world. But he forgave me. And then proceeded to tell me about how much he disliked her and made a rude comment about her mom.

I stopped him right there and reminded him that he is a boy and has to always be nice to girls and not say anything about their moms.

In defeat, he agreed and decided not to me mean.

I love elementary school!

There you go, Cortney. Another Joey story.

WGAZ state championships

2011-04-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

Congrats to the Mesa High Winter Drumline for placing 4th in their division! They did such a great job. It gave me chills watching it.

Congrats to my winterguard girls who, well, did a super job for their first year. I know how it is to drop a flag or two and they handled it wonderfully! And my sweet Ashley finally caught a quad. (That is with a rifle. Never learned that myself, but Ash keeps trying to teach me. I just have to remind her that I am ancient, just like my make-up, and I am beyond learning)

It was so hot, in the 90s, and a great reminder of what is to come! Make a note: I need to buy more shorts!

There are seven weeks of school left and then summer is here. We are spending the first weekend of summer in Sacramento, California. My niece is getting married! My girls get to be bridesmaids and they are so excited! I get to see the ocean so I am too!

We are so proud of Laura. She was baptized in January. She is getting married right next to the temple with plans to solidify it as soon as they can. I am so proud of the accomplishments she has made!~

2011-03-24T16:29:00.000-07:00

The joy of having six kids is that eventually they grow up (or so I have heard) and you get all of this free time to enjoy yourself.

Well, that 'free time' thing they were talking about is SO NOT TRUE!!!!

I think I am more busy now than I was when they were little.

Yeah, so I don't have to change diapers or clean dirty faces

]

(although my boys make me question that last statement on a regular basis)

But now it is a different busy.

Volunteering, dropping off forgotten glasses, dropping off forgotten homework, dropping off PE uniforms (always dropping off)

And I can't forget speending three days a week at my moms house.

and I have come to the conclusion that I do not like being home alone.

I miss having to put whatever I am doing on the back burner so I can play a rivting game of Rescue Heroes versus Barbie (as long as there is no kissing at the end). I miss coloring in the coloring book instead of folding that basket of laundry that has been sitting there since the day before. I miss falling asleep to whatever Disney movie can be found.

I don't like my house when it is quiet.

I guess it's a good thing I have to get a job in the fall, huh?

Zach is 12

2011-02-15T07:31:00.000-07:00

So Zach turned 12. Yep, that means he is a full fledged priesthood holder.

Very cool.

His day started out great. He went to see Harry Potter with his dad.

(Travis talks all through the movies so I send the kids with him or take him the second time I see the movie.....that way I can answer his questions! It's a win-win!!!)

He really liked the movie except for the fact it doesn't end!

then the little guy got to have lunch with his birthday buddy! Yep, that would be Jeffrey.

It was Br. Victor's birthday too (Lauren's grandfather) so they made a party out of it.

Zach managed to eat 1 1/2 meals! I am so glad I was not there. I would a been so embarrassed!

valentines day

2011-02-14T17:32:00.002-07:00

I love Valentines day. Yep, I am a sucker for all those feel good Hallmark movies and those 'happily ever after' movies that cause so many people to seek therapy. (ohhh, that last sentence really really explains a lot, don't you think?)

But what I have a hard time with is young love. No, I am not talking about the high school dating, holding hand, hoping for a kiss kind of love.

No, I am talking about the Junior high kind where these kids bring stuffed animals that seriously can sit in the desk by themselves. So many flowers and balloons that the teacher might mistake themselves for being in the Wal-mart floral department instead of in their own classrooms. And how long will these 'loves' last?

A week maybe two. Kind of a waste.

Questions I have:

Where in the world do they get the money?

Do they even know what love is?

As I am asking myself these questions, it dawns on me that the only one of my kids that does not have a valentine is Brittany.

(funny too cuz she is my only junior high student!)

Cort has a date tonight with a friend.... I think it is a friend.... (she is such a wealth of information since she went away to college!)

Ashley has a boyfriend. Yes, it is finally official! (It's about freakin time!)

Zach asked a girl in his class if she would be his valentine.

What exactly does that mean? And should I be worried?

(She said yes. And yes, I should be worried)

Joey's secret girlfriend asked him to be her valentine and of course he said yes.( But I told him this was not the excuse he needed to hold her hand during recess. That boy!)

Mackenzie has a imaginary valentine who happen to show up around the same time Mackay came to get Ashley for their date on Friday night.

Yes, valentines day is bitterssweet. It reminds me that my family is growing up and it is great excuse to spend exuberant amounts of money on chocolate and other materialist items in the name of love.

By the way, Happy Valentines day!

Mackenzie's new school

2011-02-07T18:33:00.003-07:00

Mackenzie is failing 1st grade.

I am really not surprised. Real life is getting in the way of her imagination. I knew she was struggling in her class and sometimes she refuses to even finish her seatwork.... mostly because she can't and, yes, I admit it, a little because she is spoiled. (okay, okay, ... a lot cuz she is spoiled)

She now goes to Porter elementary with her cousins. It is a neighborhood school and a little easier. She is doing pretty good so far. Repeating first grade will be good for her, though. She is still so immature and besides it will put her in the same grade as her cousins. I think that will work out perfectly.

Now if I can only get her to concentrate on school work and not whatever else is swimming around in her head (princess related, no doubt.)

missing my beehives

2011-02-07T18:33:00.002-07:00

About a week before thanksgiving I was released as Second Counselor of the Young Womens. It was a bittersweet thing. I knew it was time but I hate leaving all those girls. The one consolation I had was that they were all moving on up to Miamaids anyway so I wouldn't be with them for much longer. Of course, I was able to be their Sunday School teacher for the rest of the year so they were still stuck with me. But they say it was the kind of stuck you don't mind being in.

Now I get to be with the littlest beehives and hang out with them while i try to teach a class with them as well as 6 roudy boys, one of which is Zach. Woo Hoo! It is gonna be fun!

My other new calling (yeah, I guess they figured I needed to have two since I worked so much on the other one) is Scout Cub Master. Oh yeah! My kids say this calling is perfect for me! I am very silly and immature-ish and the boys can relate to it (kind of like those beloved Beehives). I do not know what I am doing yet but I will figure out that in time.

Small rant

2011-01-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

We are hosting an Australian for 10 days and it has been quite an experience. More on that later

The hardest part with this experience has been trying to deal with a mass shooting in Tucson on Saturday following a shooting/hostage situation in the Chandler Fashion square mall on Wednesday. How do we explain that Americans, for the most part, really are nice people who don't carry guns? That Americans aren't all 'packin' and don't solve problems by pointing and shooting.

America is a wonderful place to live in and we have so many great things to offer.... but there are somethings I do not agree with. The ability for a young man to buy a gun because he has no criminal past is one. Maybe this is because I have a relative who ended his life with a gun or maybe because there is too much violence in the world in the first place.

How can I explain the right to carry a consealed weapon when I really don't understand it myself. And how sad that this young girl's first experience with America is tainted with these aweful acts of violence.

Cortney's home

2011-01-04T19:33:00.000-07:00

It has been so nice having Cortney home for the holidays. Here I was picturing a mature young woman who would be so different but she is the same Cortney! I really am proud of her. She even puts up with my constant badgering. She says she even misses it. Well, I'll teach her! I will badger her so much that going back to college will be seem so wonderful!

Cortney's halloween costume. Retro chick! You should have seen the pants! totally 80's!

the results of Paint Dance! Black lights and dancing was involved. Not sure what that was about.

She also helped paint the streets for Homecoming. A Very cool tradition!

Dressing up for no apparent reason (or could it be a .....boy?)

Life at USU seems like so much fun! Now if I can just get her to take more pics and tell me more!

Ashley's Birthday

2010-12-31T19:23:00.000-07:00

A few months back Ashley's best friend texted me and said he wanted to make her a porch swing but wanted to keep it a secret. And, amazingly, I really can keep a secret (yes, Deb. I surprise even myself sometimes!)

He worked very hard and the end result is beautiful! He won two hearts with it... Ashley and Mackenzie! See, the swing is big enough for three so Mackie naturally assumed the extra space was for her. Now she is more in love with Mackay than ever. Ahhhh, young love!

But don't you worry.. Mackenzie has her sights set on another.... and it only took a week! And he is even in her school class.

Which brings me to Joey. He has a secret girlfriend! Yes! and he secretly holds her hand during recess....

His best friend is worried he will turn into a bad guy... Isn't that cute?

.....maybe structured recess isn't such a bad idea after all.

What happened to my babies?

The Wedding in Salt Lake

2010-12-28T23:00:00.000-07:00

The day started off with breakfast on the top floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. I was very nervous... mostly because Mackenzie and Joey were given glass goblets to drink out of and I was afraid I would be handed a bill after we were done eating for the extensive damage they caused. But alas, they were very good (except when Mackenzie did not get enough to eat so she came to my table, sat on my lap, and proceded to eat the rest of my food.)

It was a great moment and I realized how much we miss out on having half the family here and the rest there. I am lucky to have the brothers I do and the relationship I have with them!

The view of the temple was amazing! I loved the snow. It is something I don't see very often.

We then proceeded to the temple and to my amazement Elder M. Russel Ballard performed the ceremony! I think what I was most touched by was what he said about my brother. They were things I already knew and how awesome it was to hear someone else say them. Jeff is a great guy and together they will be amazing!

Waiting for the bride and groom at the Joseph Smith Memorial

The reception was at the Point in the Huntsman Cancer Institute. It is newer than 20 years so I do not know it but it was beautiful! At dusk you are supposed to see across the valley. It was snowing outside most of the time but it was still beautiful!

I am afraid I was so busy catching up with cousins, aunts and uncles, and old family friends that I did not take many pics but I managed to get a few of Jeff and Lauren cutting the cake and neices and young friends watching.

My brother wanted so bad to dance with my mom at his wedding. She was so nervous about it. She gets up more now but not without her walker and she did not think she could do this. But she did and it was so nice to see. The only danced for a minute or so but my brother got to dance with his mom at his wedding!

We all had a lot of fun. Here are the younger girls trying to make a silly face. They did a great job!

Ashley had a great time dancing! She danced with her cousins (even the little ones!)

This is litte Drew. Britt and Dani could not get enough of him! They spoiled him so much he seemed almost lost when they were not in eyesight of him. Sooo cute!

Funny story. Travis' cousin lives in Jeff's Ward. Cortney discovered this when she stayed with the boys in August. Marilyn and Cortney have become good friends....small world!

My short trip to Salt Lake!

2010-12-28T18:50:00.000-07:00

Lisa is my name and laziness is my game... at least when it comes to this poor blog. So much to tell!

Christmas came so quickly and I feel like I have missed out. For instance, all those sappy Christmas movies where your sniffling is so loud your 17 year old daughter makes fun of you because you are secretly blubbering like an idiot and hoping no one sees you. Obviously I am not good at hiding it. That and my daughter feels she has the absolute authority on embarrassing her mom, when I don't have that luxury (but I have NOT given up yet!)

And then there is the Christmas music my kids would not let me listen to because the local country music station plays 'real' music. And maybe it was because my heart was not really into it. But.... that is because it was on my bother's wedding!

We left beautiful sweater weather and drove into fog and snow half the way up to Salt Lake just in time to make it to Saturday's performance of the Tabernacle Choir with David Archeleta and Michael York. (My kids were very impressed with David Archeleta and are watching every youtube video they can find, and I like Michael York because he is Ezekial Crane, Gus Pikes's father from Avonlea! yeah, yeah, I know. I really am one of the kids!)

Then the next day was Sunday and my little ones got to participate in the Christmas program... Joey even got to help ring the bells with his cousins. Mackenzie was not that lucky and she almost threw a fit on the stand as they were coming down. I was so embarrassed but my bro and his wife just laughed.

Best Christmas present ever

2010-11-15T07:59:00.001-07:00

My brother Jeff is getting married....finally! I am so excited for him! He has wanted to start his own family for a long time now and here it is!

Lauren is a wonderful girl and they are so cute together.

The wedding is taking place on December 21st in the Salt Lake Temple.

Which means we get to experience Temple Square during Christmas time.

The Mesa Temple is so beautiful during this time of year

But my kids have never been to Salt Lake.

So Excited....

But it's gonna be so cold.

That means I actually have to buy coats. and gloves....and hats.

Whooooaaaaa!

It has been many years since I actually owned a real coat!

If we are in luck there will be snow and everything.

Well, maybe not luck... I forgot slush and black ice usually go with snow. And I am sure there is so much I have forgotten about snow.

No matter, it will be a great experience

And I have only been to the Salt Lake Temple twice

But to be with my family will be such a treat.

What a great Christmas present!!!!!

And to be home is Salt Lake at Christmastime is going to be wonderful!

Is it Halloween already?

2010-10-21T05:48:00.001-07:00

Now, I really need to concentrate on holloween costumes... a week away and I got nothin!

So I gotta find something the kids can get dressed into relatively quickly considering I will be spending the day at Misquite High school for their marching competition.

Maybe we can recycle last years costumes...

Girls camp

2010-10-21T05:45:00.001-07:00

As I sit here trying to put together the next gripping edition of the Franklin Flyer, I got thinking about last week. We, the girls and I, spent four beautiful days in the cold pines in... well... Pine, Arizona. Camp LoMIA to be specific. Dedicated in 1940, it houses lots of loud screaming girls, leaders who have lost their sanity, and hot showers that work ... if you are one of the lucky ones! Squeeky beds, spiders galore and brave outdoor-life that come to visit every now and again... if you want them to or not.(especially those that leave a scent LONG after they leave)

But be warned... Every night they, the girls, perform their ritual singing and you really want to bring some ear plugs... or cough drops just in case you decide to join in!

And every year I hope and pray they will invite me back to this strange and peculiar place: because I have the time of my life every year!

This year our theme was about the talk given by Dieter F. Uchtdorf about Happily Ever After and our quest to find it....and the positive attitude we need til we actually get there.

My goal it to find my positive attitude. I lost it along the way.

Cabin one first years were a nice treat to work with. The girls all got along and genuinely liked each other. And Sis. Grace, my co-cabin mom, was a doll! We had a great time talking and hanging with our girls. We had three wonderful YCLs who taught us well and even put up with our 'storytimes', which I think were our attempt to get out of certification. But best of all,we were well fed phyically and spiritually.

And I got a few hugs along the way from my own Beehives and my two most favorite girls,Ash and Britt!

Here are 7 of our cabin 1 girls. Birthday girl and Firestarter were busy.... elsewhere.

girls camp 2010

2010-10-07T16:09:00.000-07:00

Only a few days now. I can't wait! I absolutely love girls camp. There is nothing like driving up into the mountains and spending the week amongst nature, minus the skunk, of course. ( I got my fingers crossed) This year I get to spend the week with a bunch of 12 year olds who will be experiencing their first year at camp. This is my favorite age in mutual. They think I am pretty cool (the older ones know better) and I get to be as silly as they are and no one thinks anything of it. (at least they don't say anything. Thanks for that)

My one an only 12 year old is even in my cabin. It is going to be great.

My other Beehives have promised to see me often.

Even my offspring are willing to give me a hug now and then.

Yes, except for the cold weather, which I REALLY am looking forward to, it is going to be a great week.

Travis' week? I am not thinking about that one!

Brother Clifford

2010-09-28T21:10:00.000-07:00

My heart goes out to the Clifford family. Brother Clifford was an amazing man and he was a great example to all of my kids, those in Primary and in mutual. His sense of humor and friendly smile will be missed greatly. His death was so sudden and is still so hard to accept. Our Bishopric will not be the same without him. May the Spirit be with Julie, Leah, and Calvin at this time.

midnight encounters

2010-09-21T05:31:00.004-07:00

It's 2 a.m. and I am lying in bed, holding Travis' hand, and I get this sensation of warm air cascading over my face.

I open my eyes to find Joey standing a foot from my face, startling me.

He has had a nightmare.

I wonder how long he has been standing there.

I scoot over and he climbs in, literally burrowing into me for comfort.

I adjust my position, and close my eyes in an attempt to fall asleep.

Then I hear the creeking of the door down the hall.

(Ever since we got new doors, I can pretty much figure out which door is opening or closing by the creaking sound it makes. My kids hate the sound. Me? I don't mind cuz it gives me a heads up!)

The next thing I know Mackenzie jumps on the bed and finds her space between Travis and I.

We all get comfy

Poor Travis, he tries to recover from her 'commando' approach.

As I am laying there, two little bodies fighting for what space there is left, I think to myself that I only have to get up in 2 1/2 hours. This lack of space or breathing room is causing me not to sleep.

Maybe I should just give up and go to sleep on the couch.

Then I am reminded of a certain redhead who is asleep over 1000 miles away, and another who is not far but is much too old to cuddle with mom.

I am reminded how fast life happens.

So instead, I cuddle a little closer with my two leeches and relish this time.

Because soon enough, they will be too old for these special moments, too.

Another Brittany project

2010-09-20T06:51:00.000-07:00

Here is some random video Britt put together of Mackenzie. She says it is off but I find it amusing. Brittany is having so much fun with these and, I must say, she is getting better at it.

2010-09-16T07:01:00.002-07:00

Nothing is more devastating than the death of a child.

A busy little boy full of life and mischief

Cars, dump trucks, curly cheetos, and teasing his big sister

were his favorite things in life..

next to his dad..

I still dream of the little tyke in his pressed white suit

Very still

and my heart breaks all over again for his family

who feel his loss in ways I can't even imagine.

To the Paynes..

I am so desperately sorry

Jaxon Tomasi Payne

March 14, 2007- Aug 30, 2010

Cortney

2010-09-06T22:13:00.001-07:00

Well, it has been over a month since we left Cort in Salt Lake.

The last part of our trip was spent in Salt Lake, visiting with my brothers and touring the sites. We ran into the receptionist at the kids' dentist in Temple Square (actually, she was called to a mission there and Mackenzie thinks she is 'better than Barbie' so we had to stop by and say hi!). The grounds get more and more beautiful every time we go up.

And, of course, we had to go to Lagoon. After all, the closest amusement park our direction is Six Flags Magic Mountain in LA. We had a great time...except for the fact half of the party is afraid of heights, half don't like water, and the rest don't like scary rides.

This was just right for Britt. Not too high and not too slow. She took a look at the other swing ride and turned a ghostly white!

Joey wanted to go hi but Kenzie wanted to stay low. Guess who won?

Everyone loved Rattlesnake Rapids, except for Mackenzie. she had more fun watching us get wet.

My favorite ride will forever and always be the old wooden rollercoaster. Still the best ride EVER!!!!

We spent the next day in Logan. We wanted the uncles to come along but the only day they both could go was when campus was pretty much closed up (except for EFY). But we had a great time.

Joey played the elevator game... which I really hate. You know, the one where you push every button on the panel....and stop at every floor. It's a great way to spend 10 minutes when you are in a hurry!

The first two floors were not that bad. The rest took a lot more patince, but Joey loved every minute of it!

We found Cortney's dorm room, toured campus without actually going in very many buildings, and then stopped for ice cream. I have discovered you don't go to USU unless you stop at the creamery for ice cream (or squeaky cheese. Kids really loved that.)

Stopping to chat after the ice cream

This is for my mom. See???

Even Drew had a great time! Holding hands with Ashley is a very popular thing to do....

All in all, it was a nice day, although poor Cortney was even more overwhelmed when we went back to Salt Lake. She is doing so much better now, although now there is a whole new set of worries for this mom. But another story for another day.

school

2010-08-29T06:03:00.002-07:00

School is going great...I guess. Everyone is in school all day so it is really wierd to have so much time on my hands. Well, after the fact I spend three days a week with my mom, I have hemmed 26 band uniforms for the new kids (now if I can just stop having that dream where I finish one pair of bibbers just to have to start all over again with another one). And the second Franklin Flyer is due on Tuesday, not to mention Joey's teacher wants me to volunteer in his class. And then there is the Art class I teach for Mackenzie's class on Friday. ...... I think I will be having a nap with all that free time I have!

It is still wierd trying to adapt to having Cortney gone. . When setting the table, the kids are now just getting used to 7 plates intead of 8. I think she is mostly missed on Sundays. Our little pew is not the same, not to mention we sounded so much better when singing with her by our side! And the kids miss her the most when it is time for chores. I miss her too, but not as much as I thought I would. Travis says that is because she is where she is supposed to be and she is doing the right thing. Besides, I can call her whenever I want. And she can do the same....hint, hint!!!

She moved into her dorm last Saturday with the help of my fabulous brothers. They made a day of it. She had had a very productive week. I think she spent most of it partying. School starts on Monday and she better buckle down and be the good student she is ....but I still enjoy the stories she keeps telling me. Like her three random kisses from three random guys on top of the A..........

Mesa High had their first game yesterday.We won, of course! And the band did great. They still have a lot of work a head of them but it was good to hear them again. A am still a 'water mom' and I love every minute of it...well, maybe not the 100* heat at 7 pm.... but most everything else. Next week my little ones will be coming to help. It will be fun. Joey is a band favorite so maybe I will bring him first....Then again Brittany is going to be in color guard next year.....

Bowling

2010-08-08T15:29:00.000-07:00

The marching band is doing a bowl-a-thon tomorrow and Travis and I are going a chapperones. The kids are so much fun just to watch! And they know how to have fun no matter what is going on. What better way to do it and earn money at the same time. If Ashley makes 100 points she will collect $90! And that is only one student! Great, huh?

This reminds me of our trip and the time we spent in Ft Worth. We went bowling as well. I think the most amusing part of that experience to me is Mackenzie's bowling skills. I can only describe this with pics.

The idea is to hit all of the pins at the same time with this heavy ball

The ball is going wayyy to slow. Will it ever get there?

Oh no! You have to throw the ball more than one time?

This game is too tiring for me. I am sooooo done!

I like bowling!

Road trip part 2 1/2

2010-08-02T22:12:00.000-07:00

We didn't quite make it to Salt Lake in one day. We stopped over in Ramah, New Mexico to see Travis' parents and grandparents. It was so beautiful there. The first thing I noticed was the air smelled like girls camp. (Kind of sad that fresh, pine scented air only reminds me of girls camp. I really need to go up north more often!)
It was so nice to see Trav's mom and dad. They moved up there to help take care of his grandparents and bought a nice home on the corner by his grandparents. They live right across from the high school.... which came in handy for all those fireworks we bought earlier. The kind that would have gotten us into trouble had we lit them in Salt Lake. Remember those? Yeah so after dinner (and we picked up Mackenzie because we forgot her down at Grandma's house. Grandma took good care of her. She figured we would remember soon enough that we forgot something very valueable) we walked across the street and began our 'illegal' firework show.

I think I prefer the ones that stay on the ground. These really weren't that impressive.

Then again, we probably got cheap ones.

The next morning we were off again, promising next time we would stay longer and visit more. It was nice to see them again.
And we were getting pretty anxious to get somewhere so we could stop driving for awhile!!!

Road trip- part two!

2010-08-02T22:00:00.000-07:00

We finally made to Ft. Worth at about 3 in the morning. I'm not sure but I think almost everyone was waiting up for us. We laughed, visited, and some went for a midnight swim (okay, maybe is was more like a 4 am swim, but it's almost the same thing) Everyone finally went to bed about 5:30 AM.

Jeremy surrounded by girls. I don't think he minded one bit!!!

A not so serious moment!!!

The next few days were spent visiting, being lazy, and getting to know each other again. Everyone got along so well, except maybe Mackenzie and David. He kept calling her a princess and she would not have it. Hitting was involved... not a pretty picture. Poor, poor David.

Travis and I went to the temple with David and Caroline. Ashley and Brittany were lucky enough to be able to do baptisms with Kayla and Jeremy at the Dallas Temple. It was so beautiful! It is much smaller than the one in Mesa, but it was beautiful and I love going to the temple so it was a real treat! That is one thing I love about this church... the church is true no matter where you go.

We went bowling on Saturday and it was a hoot. I will get into that later.

I had a chance to visit with my other cousins and I really enjoyed that as well. It is funny how we all grow older and become adults (GASP!) but we really don't change that much. My cousins are still the same. And they still make me laugh and I still love to be around them. I am grateful for that!
On Monday we left for Salt Lake and the kids felt like they weren't there long enough. That, I think, is the worst part of visiting Texas. Everyone wishes they could see each other more often and that our visits were not so far away. But thankfully the Meyers keep putting up with us and as long as that happens, we will continue to try to wear out our welcome!

road trip!

2010-07-29T20:19:00.003-07:00

What a road trip! After getting up at 2 in the morning (and going to bed at 11:30- computer crashed and had to retrieve as many pics as I could) we started our adventure. We arrived in Benson to pick up two lovely ladies (Ash and Brit) and drop off my niece to replace them.

The sun was up with us and we were off. We entered New Mexico and the first thing we did was stop at a fireworks stand (Mom and Pop's Pyro Shop... cool name, huh?) They sell the fun, leave the ground, watch where you are standing or you could get hit fireworks. Trav, my little pyro, could not resist and bought a few. And then we were off again. Ashley, who just got her drivers licence (yes, watch those roads .... you never know) insisted on driving and assumed the position. I tried to sleep since I was going on three hours of sleep the whole night. And then it happened!

Boom!!!

The tire blew. I awoke and grabbed the wheel, helping Ashley move the van to the side of the road. It did some damage to the fender but the van was still drivable. The wheel was not. The rim was basically all bent up with bits and pieces of tire along the side of the road.

And then my sweet husband pulled out the spare tire. ( He actually remembered to bring it just in case)

BAD NEWS

It was the tire to the old van... the one we no longer have. So, after bothering sweet Bro Willstead, we called the tow truck and waited. The van was so hot so the older kids waited outside.

Miss Ashley watched the semi's pass. She tried to get one to honk. HE DID!!!

And so the game was on. Over and over again the kids tried... and most of them honked back. The kids kept trying and kept count. It was so much fun! By the time the tow truck and the extra car arrived, we had counted 111 honks, waves, or fun awknowlegements. It was the best hour I have ever spent stranded on the side of the road!!! (don't ever want to do it again, though, but we did have fun!!!)

The rest of the ride was relatively calm.

The super soaker that keeps on giving

2010-07-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

Funny Joey moment I need to share.

I don't think it's funny but I am sure in a few days, after I have had time to think about it, it will be quite hilarious! ... just not now.

I was doing dishes and Joey's broken super soaker was sitting on the counter, full and heavy. I figured I would empty it after I finished the load of dishes. My friend called and I stepped away from the sink for a while (get better Bro. Robie!!! We love you!!!) . I came back and there was RED liquid everwhere!! I asked Cort if she knew where it was coming from... and ....you guessed it...Joey's liquid of choice for his supersoaker just happens to be Hawaiian Punch! The WHOLE super soaker was filled with the sweet, sticky, RED substance.

I had no words to even ask for an explaination. Cort saw the bewildered expression on my face and informed me that he filled it yesterday while I was taking the other girls to Benson.

He can drink and spray people at the same time. What more could a man ask for? He had his toy and beverage at the same time. He is so proud of his creation.

I am truly AMAZED at his inguinity. Someday I might even laugh.... some day after my countertop does not look pink!!!!!

And I pray I am never on the receiving end of that supersoaker because he is never allowed to use Hawaiian Punch again and I have to wonder what his next liquid of choice might be!!!!!

(maybe I should have thought to bring that up when I was talking to him. OOOPS!)

Tomorrow

2010-07-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we are off! First to Ft. Worth to visit my awesome cousins!!!!!

Then we are headed to Salt Lake to visit my brothers, tour Utah State University, and participate in the 24th of July celebrations. Maybe we'll hit the amusement park while we are there as well..

My kids are so cute. With fireworks not allowed in Arizona right now, they think it is the coolest thing to go to the store and buy them. Then, under adult supervision (to Zach and Joey's dismay) the fireworks are lit and colorful sparks erupt before your eyes. And the burning smell afterwards just makes them want to light another one. Maybe it is a good thing we don't have them in Arizona because they wouldn't be as amazed and thrilled as they are now.

Then again....
Starting in December they are allowed here. ... Good times!!!!

So now my biggest delemma is to figure out how to fit 8 people, most of Cortney's belongings, and everyone else's baggage in the car comfortably. (Take out the comfortable and I can do it in a snap) It is a 17 hour drive so it's gonna be so much fun!

And Cortney is so looking to getting up to where it is not 110* outside! (To be truthfully honest, I think we all are!)

2010-07-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

All that is left is finishing the laundry.
And packing up a few other misplaced belongings.
It's less than a week away
She will be gone.

One of the most wonderful parts of being a mother is the knowlege that these children are yours.
You get to watch as they grow up
As they learn new experiences in life
As they tumble and fall
As the get their hearts broken
And always you are there to lend a shoulder and cry along with them
and conspire with them
and share your innermost secrets
not to mention eating a whole bag of chocolates while watching whatever chick flick is available at the time
And then you have to hope that you did a good enough job raising them to become the person they were meant to be.
And praying Heavenly Father will fill in the holes where you screwed up.

And then the only thing left is to let them go
I don't like change.
I hate to say goodbye.
Even though we will talk everyday (most likely even more)
It is not the same.
Someone once told me it gets easier with each child... to let them go.
I don't think so. How can it? Cortney is a part of my heart. By the time they all go, will I have anything left?

And yes, these feelings will change and Cortney will have a great time in Logan. I have no doubt. And she will have a great life and she will always be my little girl!!!!

donating blood

2010-07-06T17:57:00.004-07:00

I am usually pretty good at donating blood. I may not always be punctual about it, but I usually give three times a year.

This time Ashley wanted to try. She is 16 and weighed enough so I figured it lets give it a go. And, for those who don't know Ashley, she is a very giving person. Bossy, but very giving and loves to serve others. So this was the opportunity for her to expand her generosity.

Well, I went first. They got me all comfy and then 'hooked me up'.

Ashley was next.

I took a pic to send to her best bud. While I was sending the message they hooked her up. I turned just in time to see the blood flowing through the tube - but she was laying there, facing me unconscious with her hand twitching. She had passed out! They kept calling her name and there was no response. I sat there not being able to do a thing!

Finally, after what seemed like five minutes to me, but only 30 seconds, she came to and looked around dazed and confused. They immediately disconnected her tube and she sat there while they monitored her blood pressure for a half hour. I think I was in shock myself so they kept an eye on me too.

I can't tell you how bad I felt. I should have made her wait til she was older to donate blood. She was so brave and I know I never want to go through that again!

The Beehive Play

2010-07-05T17:32:00.000-07:00

As if there was not enough things going on in my life we, the Beehives of the Lazona Ward, are putting on a play. We are doing it for two of our girls who are using this experience as their Faith projects.

And what a project it has turned out to be.

I have been cast as two roles. The seminary teacher and Jennifer's mother, who just happens to be....

yep....

Brittany.

I can get behind that role.

We have been working on this the whole month of June. We have had so much fun. We have laughed, giggled, made fun of each other (in a very nice way, of course) and really enjoyed getting to know each other better. I am looking forward to it being over but I will miss those bonding hours with my girls!

So the big event is this Wednesday at 7p.m. in the Barkley building. Everyone is invited! I am very proud of the Beehives for taking on this huge project! They are the best!!!!!

Joey's Baptism

2010-06-20T17:26:00.001-07:00

June 14th my little man turned 8 years old. And then five days later, which was yesterday, he was baptized.

This was his invitation.

I tried to make it more reverent but I couldn't resist this picture. The Bishop said it was perfect for him. It shows his exuberance and excitement in being baptized and it shows his little, or rather BIG personality.

Joey and his dad right before. My parents are in the background. My mom gave a talk and it was so good for her!

My family.

I love um all!

Mesa High class of 2010

2010-05-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

As I sat in the stands watching the purple and gold gowns march onto the football field, it brought me back to 22 years ago when I was doing the exact same thing. It was a bittersweet moment for me. I was graduating from a high school I knew little about and wishing I was 600 miles north of here doing the same thing somewhere else. I never truly appreciated the traditions that make Mesa High what it is.

The school song, Carry On, is very short but very powerful as I listened to these kids who have been together for years sing this song knowing this will be the last time. I must admit I never understood it until now and I am proud to be a graduate from a school that has such rich traditions and familial connections. And maybe that is why it has such a powerful impact on me. This is something I will share with my children that not many others will have the opportunity to. We will have our own memories of the same place, memories that will intertwine and will bring us closer as we 'Carry on' in our own lives.

(Yes, I have heard too many graduation speeches this past week, can you tell?)

Cortney Anne Clawson graduated with honors yesterday, May 27th, 2010.

Ashley played in the full orchestra while Cortney sang in the choir. It was simply fabulous!

Here we are. Two generations of Mesa High graduates.

Congrats, Cortney. You did it!!!!!!

Britt's play

2010-05-28T10:33:00.002-07:00

Such a crazy month I forgot to put this up.

Brittany's play was great! The monologues were cute and fun. I thought she did a fabulous job! She started off the show with this!

Here are some random pictures of the play.

The cast and crew were fabulous and I cannot wait til next year!

Mom update

2010-05-28T09:10:00.001-07:00

My mom has improved so much. she still has an open wound but they have attached a wound vac which will keep the wound clean and allow it to heal from the inside out. Sounds gross and it pretty much is. She has to carry the bag with her all the time and that can get tiresome but she looks great! We are going to 'bedazzle' it this summer so she can carry it in style!

She is almost back to her old self and there are hardly any traces of that yucky hospital now. She still has nightmares about it, though. I wish I could do something to help her with that.

I am still spending half my day with her but I love her and I can't think of another place I need to be.

She has started physical therapy and they are hoping to get her to be able to be somewhat independant and be able to move around the house. As for everything else, she will be in a wheelchair. This is okay. They have ordered shoes for her. One of her legs in now 2 inches shorter than the other and she needs these to get around.

Weekend Events

2010-05-27T05:16:00.002-07:00

What a weekend! Saturday night we had our very first Mesa High Jazz Dinner and Dance. My new favorite music is Jazz! The band boosters worked so hard for weeks and the whole thing turned out great! I remember talking with the booster president and she was so worried it wouldn't be that way and I was reminded of the many Enrichment nights and how they all truned out so great because of Faith. And our small little group had it in spades and it was a great success! The principal was impressed and there will be another next year!

And of course there are no pictures

(even blurry ones)

The very next day we had the dedication of the Gila River Temple. What a treat! My sister's ward was able to participate in the Saturday night celebration and met with Pres. Monson and he was great with the kids. I must admit I was kinda jealous.

I went to the early session with my older girls and sat with my mom. Mackenzie had a fever and we didn't want to leave her with anyone (and my sweet husband got to sleep in so it was a fair exchange!)

It was awesome to feel the spirit and and to hear that this was Pres. Kimball's dream : to have a temple in the place he called home.

The Gilbert and Phoenix temples have run into some snags but I look forward to being able to participate with and watch them grow. And by then, hopefully, the whole family will be able to particpate in their dedications!

Graduations

2010-05-26T14:28:00.001-07:00

I missed Joey's graduation. There was a mix up and I was needed with my mom so I missed when he was handed his medal but I heard it was great! I heard he went on and on in typical Joey fashion and was a hoot....
and I felt two inches tall for missing it!

The little lad is off to second grade now.... I still need to find him a school. Miss Greta is teaching 2nd grade next year but the lttle tyke needs to work on being quiet and working in a large group. But we love Miss Greta so I have no idea what will happen.

I missed Mackenzie's too because I was setting up for a jazz band dinner and dance, which I will go into later, but Tami was awesome and taped it for me and took lots of pics. I love having her around. She takes such great pics and mine are the blurriest things in the world!

Seminary graduation was great! Cortney leaded the music and I admit I couldn't get through the first song because it dawned on me that this will be the last time in a while I will watch her lead music (of course I didn't remember that she usually does it in Young Womens). A sweet sister in our ward, one of her Laurel advisers, brought her a lei to wear. It was beautiful and smelled wonderful! Sister Taufa is wonderful and it really made Cortney's day!
My parents came to support her. They chose to come to this one instead of the one on Thursday night because it was easier forom. But lets face it, if you had to choose, wouldn't you go to the one in the air conditioned building, to a smaller crowd who are guaranteed not to have potty mouthes, and where refreshments will be served afterwards?

The end of the year concerts

2010-05-26T14:19:00.002-07:00

End of the year concerts! Can there be anything better?

The beautiful choir concert where your daughter sings a double trio (Yes there is a word for that but I don't know what you call a group of six.... but technically there were three boys and three girls so I am not too far off) and of course realizing that this will be the last time you will hear her sing in a group.

I wonder if Utah State carries their concerts on the internet?

Then there is the band concert at Mesa high with the sassy redhead talking at the beginning. And of course that same sassy redhead walking home with the most outstanding sophomore of the year award. Not to mention the wonderful music in between. It was a great concert! And sweet Ashley got her first letter in music. I say first because she is a real 'go getter' and I know it will not be her last.

Sly Ashley was making it hard to take her pic so I found one of her helping me at the beginning to get the roses ready for the concert. She is always helping me. I don't know what I would do without her.

And then there is my favorite! The Franklin East elementary band concert.. Nothing makes my heart leap more than hearing that familiar squeak coming from the saxaphone section and knowing which player it's coming from. And come on, a band concert or a sing wouldn't be complete unless Mr Higgins informs the parents that they need to work on their audience skills! Who could ask for better entertainment than that? I will honestly miss those elementary years when they are gone. Luckily I still have Joey and Mackenzie who still need to experience the joy of music classes.. Joseph still has his heart set on playing the drums and Mackenzie was swinging that flag pretty hard yesterday so I see many more band functions in my future!

I took a closer one but Zach would KILL me if I showed it now. Silly boy. Does he not realize I will just post it next week?

2010-05-13T06:37:00.000-07:00

Ashley made it back! It was a long 5 days and I really missed her. I am in big trouble when Cortney leaves for college.

There is only two weeks and two days of school left and I must admitt I cannot wait! It has been a long year and I am looking forward to not driving all over Mesa in the morning .

Mackenzie is in summer school because she is having a hard time reading... I cant figure out why. The kid had two kindergarten classes.

Zach is in summer band. he is still playing the alto sax. He is getting excited because he is starting to enjoy it.

Swimming lessons alude me still, but I will sign up eventually.

Ashley is going down to Benson to babysit for girls camp and scout camp. They are one month apart so I will see her in between. She looks forward to heading down there.

Yep, looking forward to school being over soon. I cannot wait!

They're off!

2010-04-27T18:39:00.000-07:00

Ashley leaves for Florida in 2 1/2 hours. Well, to the airport, at least. She doesn't board the plane until midnight. She will be there til Saturday morning. I am so excited for her but also sad at the same time. They grow up so fast. She is taking pictures or I will sell all of her belongings while she is away. A pretty fair trade, I think.

Mesa High's band and orchestra have been invited to perform some disney songs to videos. Should be pretty cool. They are playing at Disney World and then playing at Disney World. I'll let you guess which order is which.

Speaking of growing up so fast, Cortney has to be packed and ready to go by July 14th. We are going to Texas to visit with cousins first and then headed straight to Utah.

That is it.

My little girl will be all on her own. My heart and eyes are heavy. I am so not ready for this.

The LDS Prom and other events

2010-04-20T06:26:00.000-07:00

Friday night was quite an adventure.
Before we get to the LDS prom (I cannot call it Mormon Prom because this is not the proper way to say it so now I am changing it....and I will never do it again....is that good enough for an apology? If not, find me later and I'll come up with something even better) I need to tell you about what happened before....

We were half way through with hair when the power flickered once or twice. Luckily, it did not go out so we continued on with our hair styling.

My mom called. When she calls, she becomes top priority because she cannot get up.

She said my dad was in a car accident on the way to the Stake Center.

He was going to set up the projection or something (enter technical jargen here) for the prom. Our stake was the lucky ones who were the hosts this year.

It turns out the traffic lights were out and the cars were treating it like a 4 way stop sign. It was his turn so he went. Someone not paying attention to the lights or him for that manner didn't stop and slammed into his back right side.

The car itself had very little damage but the back wheel was bent in so the car is not drivable.

I stopped triple barrelling and quickly left so see what I could do.

Do you know how there is that one traffic light in your area that is the worst? You know, more car accidents than any other. There were even fatalities last year.

This one is it.

Friends drove by and thought it was me.

Thank goodness my mom was not with him.

Now, the dance. Both Cortney and Ashley looked so cute and it was Mackenzie's turn to dress up in her twirling dress.

Cortney and Josh

Ashley and Mackay

We shipped Joey and Mackenzie off to Cathy's for a slumber party and then took Britt and Zach out to dinner. It was a nice night for the whole family. And the best part was I did not have to do dishes!!!

play changes

2010-04-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

Well, there are a lot of changes to Arsenic and Old Lace. For one, it was cancelled. BUT.....
the show will go on.
The cast is putting together some monologues to do instead.It will be free and it will only be on Thursday and Friday nights. The drama teacher was hired after Christmas and is not fully aware of the rules and regs so she is using this experience as a guide for next year and Arsenic and Old Lace is on hold for next year.

Boots are ordered, dresses steamed and hair products waiting to destroy the ozone if not my ability to breathe. Yes, we are almonst ready for mormon prom.....

Mormon Prom

2010-04-13T05:27:00.000-07:00

Four days and counting until our 5 stake dance, which is being referred to as Mormon Prom. This is the first time our area has done something this big. My cousins in Texas have done it a few years back and they loved it! When Cort went to prom last year she said the dancing made her blush (gushing mother so proud) and the dress styles made even her uncomfortable (even prouder) .

This dance will show the kids that you can dress modestly and have a great time doing it.

And yes, I do sound like a Young Women leader. My Beehives are probably thinking it's about time!

Our stake center is where the event will be held and I have heard it is going to be fabulous. (I wonder if they have an area where moms can press their noses against the glass and spy on their little loved ones. They could make so much money just in that alone!)

The theme is A Night in Paris.

Everything is free.

The pictures are free.

The wards are even planning on dinner beforehand for those who are attending. And even those who have no dates who dream of the whole cinderella theme (minus the rats, of course) are invited to attend. It should be quite the night!

Cortney is going with Josh. They have been dating for a while now. Ashley is going with Mackay, one of her best friends. Luckily Britt is only 13 so she has to wait!

Thank goodness!

Three in Young Womens is one thing but to have three dating at the same time would be too much for this mom to handle!

mom's coming home take 2

2010-04-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

Today is going to be a great day! My mom is coming home (yet again)!

This time my dad is taking her whether the doctor likes or not. I get to help get her dressed and transport her. Yesssss!!!!!

Today is also Mackenzie's birthday. She is 6! She is so excited! She gets to take cupcakes to her 2nd kindergarten class and gets to wear a crown and everything! Wow. Makes me almost wish I was six again. Almost!

Britt got some wonderful and overwhelming news. One of the girls dropped out of the play and the drama teacher decided to give Brittany the roll of Dr. Einstein instead of Klein, the police officer. The play is in three weeks and all of the lines are scaring her. She will be fine. I have so much faith in her.

Speaking of Britt, here is another one of her creations, except this one was for Mr. Kerber, her English teacher. Personally, I love this considering the stars of this movie do my dishes and clean my toilet! (Actually, getting them to do that is like pulling teeth. This is me hoping!)

I wished it was April fools!

2010-04-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

Today my dad called me to the hospital to help take my mom home. Everyone is so excited, my dad especially. We got her dressed, emptied out her water cups, and packed what was left in the attractive pink box thingie they hand out at hospitals when the nurse came in.

He told my mom she was not going home today.

I waited for him to drop the April Fools gag~

but it never came.

Instead, he gave her a sad look and I realized he was not joking.

It was not an April Fools joke....

I wished it was.

The wound does not look any better.

Cultures need to be taken as well as a CAT scan to look for secondary infections.

She is heartbroken. We are all heartbroken. The nightmare continues.....

Darn that April Fools!

April Fools!

2010-04-01T14:09:00.000-07:00

I love April Fools, except this year I cannot think of anything worthwhile to do...

maybe Ashley's big date to Flagstaff could be tinkered with...

gotta think on that one.

So I figured I would bring up my all time favorite one.

For some unknown reason I kept one of pregnancy tests I took when I was blessed with Mackenzie (i'm not sure why. Probably because I was in shock and needed proof that I was actually having a SIXTH child!)

Anyway, I stuck it in a cup of water to get it wet, and then headed to my mom's house. Somehow I managed a shocked face when I handed her the test. She looked at it and gasped. "Really? You're pregnant again?"

I sat down and began to ramble on about how we couldn't afford another one and what was I going to do. After about 5 minutes of rambling (which I really am good at) I copped up and told her the truth. She was so mad at me! But it was so worth it!

Easter Pageant 2010

2010-03-29T14:40:00.000-07:00

Every year at this time we load up our Young Women and travel a whole one mile to attend the Mesa Easter Pageant. We are now the biggest outdoor Easter Pageant in the world! We come at least two hours early, get great seats, bring enough junk food to make yourself sick, and giggle away the hours waiting for it to start. If you are lucky, some ot the cast members from cute little kids to hot Roman soldiers (not my words..just quoting here) will stop by and sign autographs. And if you're really lucky, a missionary or two stops by to talk and maybe pass along some cards for those who are visiting who are not of our faith.

This is Elder Salt Lake City. Can't remember his name, just where he came from. (Since I am from that area too, it's easy to remember). I think he liked us because he kept coming back.

We also had our beloved Young Women's President stop by and say hi. She and her adorable granddaughter have parts in the pageant this year.

This is NOT her granddaughter, it is my sweet if sometimes very BLOND daughter

This cutie pie is Miss Angie: our newest and most bubbly beehive!

This is Sis Martineau and her cute daughter Lauren, Beth, myself, and Austin with Renee's little brother and sister peeking over Austin's shoulder. It was a Young Women's activity, but Austin is welcome anytime. (and he working on sucking up to win points with me since he is taking Ashley to MORP in 12 days JK. He's a great kid!)

This is Lexie and Shelly and this was the best I could get. for some reason they wouldn't smile for me. I wonder why?

Miss Rylee momentarily lost the ability to walk . Thank goodness Sis Rainwater was there! Renee and Cortney lend a helping hand, too.

This sweet but very strong girl is Carli. Carli just turned 14 and has moved up to MiaMaids but we love her and miss her! And Sis Taufa is the sweetest Sister in the whole world!

Cortney, Austin, and Laura having a great time talking to Elder Salt Lake City. Seriously, I think he stopped by 4 times. We are soooo much fun!

We competed with a band concert at the MAC (Mesa Arts Center) so our numbers were down by a few, including Ashley.

It was a fun experience and I get to do it all over again on Thursday with my little family minus Ashley again. She is going with a group of friends.

WGAZ Championships 2010

2010-03-29T12:32:00.000-07:00

What a day! We arrived at 7:30 a.m. to pass out uniforms and then we were off to Phoenix by 8 a.m. We did a few last minute shoe polishing while they practiced and then we transported the equipment to the staging area. The drumline was finished by 11 a.m. After lunch, we headed back and enjoyed the rest of the drumlines and winter guard. And, as much as I hate to admit it, I so enjoyed the drumlines more than the winter guards. I think because they were busier and funner (the winter guards picked some very slow and boring songs) My favorite was from Paige, Arizona where they combined both!

It was great except for a group of kids in back of me that would not be quiet and always seemed to be throwing things at me. Very rude! I would love to give a piece of my mind to that girl's mother!

..... Wait! Um, never mind. She has a fantabulous mother!

(And, yes, I may have misinformed you.... I was the one actually throwing things up at them. I had to find some way to entertain myself and Ashley is such a great target!)

The best part is Mesa High Drumline took 1ST PLACE in our division! Yesssss! Those kids worked so hard and they deserve this. (And my ears deserve a rest)

After getting home at 10:30 p.m., we were so pumped we had a hard time getting any rest. And it is only a year away but I am looking forward to doing it all over again, but this time Ashley WILL be one of those with the medals!

Mom's comin' home!!!

2010-03-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

We got word that mom is coming home from the hospital this week! We are all so excited about this! She has been in a hospital since January 25th and she is soooo tired of them. And we are sooo tired of them, too. Her last dose of antibiotics will be Thursday so hopefully Thursday night she will be comfy in her own bed and relaxing in her own chair!

There is still a long road ahead, but I can't think of a better place to recooperate than in your own home!

2010-03-23T05:58:00.000-07:00

Britt did it! She got a part in the play! She will play one of the policeman in Arsnic and Old Lace. She had her first rehersal yesterday and came home so excited because her minor part is actually a medium part! (In girl drama, this is equivalent to three summersaults and two boisterous screams throughout the house. Thank goodness she did not get a major part!)

So, for the next six weeks she will not be around much. Thank goodness Zach has at least one more year of elementary! I gotto enjoy him while I can!

Drumline

2010-03-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

Being in the band boosters at Mesa High is very interesting. There are so many different options than I remember when I was in high school. For instance, when I was in color guard, it was a year long class and the guard worked on and competed in winter shows. It has sinced changed to a semester class with winter guard as an extra activity, which Mesa High does not offer, dang it!

They also have drumline. Very cool. We are in the middle of drumline season. Ashley is not in drumline. She started out but chose not to continue because her grades were not where she wanted them to be. But we're both still involved and help set up for the performaces. It is a lot work but it is so much fun! I love how students can take a handful of percussion instruments and each school come up with very different and fun programs. If you have not been to one, definitely check it out!

The statewide competition is next Saturday and that will be it! It has been fun working with Ashley as stage crew and I am already excited about next year's marching season.

(Travis thinks I have lost it!)

Update on Joey's talk with the Bishop-

Bishop Whiting was great. He asked Joey if what he was doing was good, and poor Joey talked really fast (don't know where he got THAT from) and said no and promised never to do it again. The Bishop said he was a great kid and knew he wouldn'tdo it anymore. Joey left with red face and a smile. So far the boy's bathrooms at church are monkey village-free! I think.

(Not that I spend too much time in there in the 1st place)

Spring Break

2010-03-18T18:33:00.000-07:00

Spring break is here and I am still in Arizona.

We were going to Texas to see my cousin and his family.

But my mom is still in the hospital

and I cannot leave her.

My brothers have left for home.

It was so nice to see them and my mom really loved her visit with them.

We are going to the zoo tomorrow.

The Phoenix Zoo specializes in many play areas for the kids, one of the things I love about our zoo.

And the water playgrounds are open too.

It isn't Texas.

But the part I like about Texas is the visiting and spending time with family.

My mom is worth it.

I can go to Texas in the summer!

sons

2010-03-11T15:20:00.000-07:00

My brothers are in Mesa. They flew in from Salt Lake late last night and we picked them up.

I really missed them.

I am so glad to see them.

But best of all, I cried when my mom saw them. Tears of joy, gratitude, and love fell from my cheeks as she hugged both of them and cried. They have a touch of magic only they can give and to see them sacrafice their time and and spend it here with her was just what she needed!

This is the worst thing she has ever gone through and to see her face light up as she gazed at her two sons was a moment I will never forget.

Now, she needs to get better and come home.

That will be the true miracle!

My son's obsession

2010-03-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

I have a problem and I am at a loss of what to do. Most parents have children who have issues with bedwetting, picking their nose in public, or wearing mismatched socks to church (Shocking!) Mine is an addicition problem ... and there is no support group for it yet. My son ...climbs. Not any place. No, only the boys bathroom at church. He jumps from the urnal, he swings like a monkey from the door of the stall. (and things I am not aware of ....yet.) He thinks the boys bathroom is his own personal jungle gym. And his favorite time to do this is during Sacrament or Primary.

I have threatened to make him go to the girls bathroom with me during these times but I let him go into the boys in between meetings.

Help! I don't know what to do. (He is seeing the Bishop for 5 minutes tonight. I am hoping he will intimidate him enough to scare him straight. But then our Bishop is the nicest guy I know so I think that idea just went out the window.) If anyone has any ideas, please let me know.

Britt's first drama assignment

2010-03-02T07:18:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like filling space when I need it. My mom is hopefully being transferred to rehab today so I figured I would present Britt's first drama assignment. She wanted to do this at the mall with a bunch of strangers but I had no desire to spend the night in the emergency room if those strangers reacted badly to her ideas. She convinced some of her fellow Beehives and a few others to help the night before the assignment was due. Not all of my beehives could come so I can't call it a 'Beehive' activity, although after they see this I am sure they will be very grateful they did not participate! (JK I love you, Britt!)

It is a How To video

My mom

2010-02-26T06:03:00.000-07:00

My mom's hip replacement is not going well. The infection is much worse on the inside than they thought. Yesterday, during surgery,they removed the new hip, put in a temporary unit and cleaned up the infection as best as they could. Now the idea is to wait for 6 to 8 weeks, hoping the infection will clear up, and then doing the whole process all over again in 8 weeks.
She is not happy. We are not happy. Does this mean she will still be in a rehabilitation center or does she get to come home and wait for the infection to heal? What about the hip? She cannot stand on her leg at all with the temporary unit in place. So many questions the doctor has yet to answer.

Good news! Parent teacher conference was wonderful! Miss Lewien, Zach's teacher, said all of my kids are wonderful and a joy to teach! (after all, she has taught four of them so far) It is a nice reminder that even though I myself may not always agree, I am doing something right! Of course, Zach has a few things he needs to improve on. And Mackenzie thinks life is an imaginary adventure and sometimes school gets in the way of that. (We will be working on that, too.) And then I ran into the FPO president and other members in the book fair and they are hinting bigtime about joining the Franklin Parent Organization again. ... And I am seriously thinking about it, don't tell Travis!

Registering for USU is coming along. Cortney has received a few more smaller scholarships. I am so excited for her as it gets closer.

Brittany is loving drama. She is trying out for the play, Arsnic and Old Lace next week. Her drama teacher is recommending she do it. This, of course, has her so excited.

Grandpa's church house

2010-02-19T06:27:00.000-07:00

This video thing is fun!
While playing on youtube I found this video. The church in the background once belonged to my grandparents and we spent so much time discovering, getting into trouble discovering, and romping through the old place. It brings back so many memories! And the next time I am in the area, I am so going to this diner!

my first video!

2010-02-18T12:01:00.000-07:00

I am just playing to see if this works. The skinny red head in the middle is Ashley! They are practicing for the Division III state championship (which they won 1st) back in November. Go Mesa High Colorguard!!!

What's in YOUR phone?

2010-02-18T07:06:00.000-07:00

My mom had surgery on January 25th- she had her hip replaced... the second one in ten years. The doctors have sent her to a rehabilitation center and I try to go into Phoenix every day. In other words, I am not around home very much.

BUT.....

To prove I am still alive I am going to play a game. It's called... What's In Your Phone?

This is a great game if you are a mom of a teenager who has their own phone! (Fun for the mom, that is. Not so much for the teenager!)

I think they are practicing... gosh, I hope not

Give a girl a phone.....

Dang! how did that get in here?

No explanation even needed!

Mackenzie wants her picture too.

Brittany and Dani playing at Goodwill! Very creative!

They have discovered the art of taking pics of themselves. I'm so proud!

We don't call him a monkey for nothing!

can't forget Zach!

Skyler

No words! (just laughing hysterically trying to be an adult and failing miserably at it)

Now, I can't wait to play this game with Ashley!

2010-01-30T04:27:00.000-07:00

What is the scariest word in the dictionary?

There are so many to choose from.

Silly words are easy. You don't have to think of those and they just roll off the tongue.

(Pickle has always been one of my favorite.)

Adjectives are fun words to play with too.

Adoreable, vivacious, creepy, illuminating.... so many!

But scary...

For me, the scariest is cancer.

so many thoughts, emotions, fears, heartache, joy, and trials come from that word

When I was young living in Sandy, Utah a little boy around the corner from my house had Leukemia. I don't remember him ever having hair. I think he lived to be 7 or 8. Bobby was his name. What I remember most is so much sadness. But he was a remarkable little guy. He always had a smile. I will never forget him.

My Grandma had the nasty stuff. I don't think she ever fully recovered from it. It was devastating for me to watch my favorite person in the world survive through radiation and chemo. I think it made her old, not that she was ever truely old

(I would have loved to see her in that redheaded wig she talked about getting!)

My mom lost both breasts to breast cancer when I was 18. I won't go into that.

My young Women's president was diagnosed over a month ago, but she is now cancer free, but not before it left it's mark on her and those around her.

Now sweet Angie is back home with her Heavenly Father after loosing her battle with the unforgiving disease. She is my friend. We worked together a lot in church for the past four years. She made me laugh.. I love her. I miss her. I wish I could have said goodbye to her. I dont know what else to say.

Cancer still remains to be the scariest word I know, a word, I dread I will have to deal with again.

Angie and her adorable boys!

(And yes, I lifted this picture from Facebook. Somehow, I don't think she'll mind at all)

1st grade woes

2010-01-27T16:31:00.000-07:00

Joey comes home from school angry. He talks a mile a minute while usually stuttering his way through it. His teacher gave him a behavior calendar. He brings home usually Ss or Ns. He is always behind on his work. He is already 7 years old and they will not hold him back (which I don't want them to because, with any luck, he will be leaving for his mission right after he graduates)

What is a mom to do?

I pulled him out.

He was sad because this meant no more lunches, or recess, or PE.

But then we put him back with Miss Greta for first grade.

Oh my gosh! What a difference! He is so much happier.

He smiles all throughout school.

He does not stutter as much.

And he eats lunch with us!

And Mackenzie loves to have lunch with him, too!

This was a great decision!

Thank you, Miss Greta and Miss Sheri!!!

Wednesday night means mutual!

2010-01-20T05:58:00.000-07:00

Whipped cream

pie plates

bubble gum

balloons

green speghetti noodles

pennies

rope

skateboards

blindfolds

red jello

raisins

rice

what does all of this add up to? Mutual Fear Factor. Cannot wait until tonight!

(And everything is Bishop approved! He even had a few other strange ideas!)

I just hope the girls participate.

Some will.

But I'm afraid most will cringe at the idea. Oh, well.

Gonna be a great night! (I hope!)

Winter Formal

2010-01-13T11:39:00.000-07:00

What a day! First of all, it was my baby brother's birthday and we had a party... just not for him.

Zach had his first birthday party... ever. (I know, I know. I really need to work on the good parent thing.) The poor little guy's birthday is on December 28th and everyone is busy doing the family thing so we waited until the first weekend of the new year. And that just happened to be the same day as the Winter Formal. But this is okay. Here is how both events went.

The Party:

It turned out better than I thought it would. Zach wanted to do a treasure hunt so we hid clues all over the place, inside and out. We even took advantage of our neighbors banana tree. How many people can say they have a banana tree just around the corner? And we treated the paper the clues were on so they looked so authentic. Britt and I had so much doing that. Nine kids showed up and we were quite a sight running around in the front yard looking for clues.

I think it worked out pretty well.

reading a clue

The clue hidden in the banana tree. They did not find this one. We had to point it out!

Zach and his birthday cake.

We played a few other games and they all enjoyed the WII Rock Band. I think if we had done just that, they would have been content. Wow! If I had known boys were this easy to entertain I would have done a party a long time ago.

The Dance:

Cortney and Ashley went to dinner together at Red Robin and then came back to get ready. Ben decided to stick around himself, that way he wouldn't have to drive all the way home and then all the way back. I don't think he knew exactly what he was getting himself into.

First, Brittany had to show off as only she can. She chose to make earrings for Cortney and volunteered Ben to help. And Dani was over to see the events and she helped too. Brittany and Dani are quite a combination. (Giggles, silly comments. whispers, squealing, and then giggles all over again. Everything you would expect from tween girls!)

Meanwhile, Joey, who is almost Ben's biggest fan, did his own little showing off. He talked and talked and talked and talked and...... I really could go on.....

Then Mackenzie was not to be outdone by Joey. But the little lassie was torn between entertaining the boys or watching the girls get ready.

Josh came by a bit later and waited, as well, but he had been through the wringer a few weeks before so the kids gave him a break. I'm pretty sure he didn't mind, especially the earring-making part.

But all in all, the night was a great success. Both the girls looked great and they had a great time. Cortney came home first at 11:30 and Ashley made it home by 11:58, two minutes before her cerfew. Pretty good for her first date!

And I went to bed with an ache in my back and creaky bones!

Cortney and Josh heading off for the night.

Ashley and Ben heading off as well. Poor Ben. He spent an hour waiting for Ashley and being entertained by Joey, Mackenzie, Brittany (And Dani). Poor, poor Ben!

This picture is definitley going up on Joey's wall

And one with Ashley, so she won't feel bad, he says.

Brittany and Dani. Enough said.

strange and peculiar people

2010-01-08T08:30:00.000-07:00

Looking through the eyes of a non-member coming to Church activities

Laura, my niece, has moved down from California. Cortney and Laura are very close and she has been dragging Laura to mutual. (Maybe dragging is too harse. She has invited her and Laura said yes) I think it helps that I am there too, at least it makes spying a bit more easier... ooops I mean observing!:)

Laura must think we are wierd. We start with opening exercises: opening song and prayer. Then we repeat the Young Women's theme and listen as the boys attempt to get through the Young Men's theme. Then we break into our activities. Two days ago we did a service scavenger hunt. I went with a different group so I did not see how she fared, but they said they had fun. The idea must have sounded so strange to her but she went along with it anyway.

We have also been to the temple to see the lights. She enjoyed that as well. Then Ashley dragged her to the Multi Stake New Year's Dance (again I use the word drag loosely) and she went. It was a bit hard trying to find clothes that were acceptable, us Mormons do dress very conservatively. She has a great time, even though she danced only once with a 15 year old boy (She is 19 so I think that was a bit too wierd for her.)

We will continue to invite her and I hope she continues to say yes. Maybe someday she will be as strange and peculiar as us!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year!

Oh, so many new year's resolutions. For one, actually posting on my blog!

Christmas is over and I am hoping for a bit more time (not counting on it, though.) We went to Benson to see Debbie and her family after Christmas. Young Kolby was baptized and then we spent the day playing. We rode the quads, played in the dirt, froze our toes (yes it does get cold in Benson. Not Utah cold but very close), and had a great time visiting with each other (yes, that means we ate!)

The next morning at 2 a.m. my parents were in a car accident and totaled their truck. They are okay, though. The other car had injuries but we do not know how bad or any other information. It is enough to really put what is important into prospective. My family means a great deal to me. It is times like this that I wish we lived a little closer to each other. This experience was much harder on Jeff and Steve, I'm afraid. They are so far away in Salt Lake. But I love the fact communication is what it is because they were informed and put at ease as much as possible (which I'm sure really isn't good enough).

Mesa High Football made it to state (which they lost but how cool they got that far!) so Winter Formal was postponed. It was the same day as the big game and was moved to next weekend, January 9th.

Ooops! Alyse too. I love you, Alyse!!!

I wonder if I was ever this bad!!!

Cortney and Ashley are busy getting their dresses ready, talking about hair, makeup, and most importantly, shoes! I am so excited for both of them. They are both going with boys they really like. (I think this is where I REALLY will embarrass them. YES! I have waited so long!!!!)

Zachary turned 11 on Monday and is now an 11year old scout. He has missed out on a few campouts and is looking forward to the next one. (Thank goodness girls camp in cabins and have hot running showers!) We have made a goal to get our Ham Radio licences for scouts (and for my Dad) in the next few months. It will be exciting to work on something together.

Cortney has been going out with her new boyfriend all Christmas break. Don't worry, she has been doubling with Austin and Jeanette. I am really happy for her. She is taking a break from volunteering at the Zoo because of Christmas and is enjoying spending time outside, which is nice because she really is a home body. Besides, I guess I need to get used to it.