The Bus Driver

My worst nightmare, at least a year ago it would have been. Let me preface. We have had our 15 passenger van for about a year and a half. I swore I would NEVER get one. When I realized I had no other options, I swore it would NOT be white. Well, I have a white one. My pride was deeply injured for the first while. I eventually got over it and now I love it! So on to my story:

I was filling up my tank (which takes awhile) and a kid, maybe 12, with a skateboard came over and asked me if I could take him to a certain intersection. Now, this intersection happened to be exactly a mile down the road. Seriously, on a skateboard, you can't go a mile? Anyway, I happened to be right next to my kids school so I pointed over there and said "I'm just going right there." He looked at me somewhat confused and asked "Aren't you like a bus driver?" I said "No, I just have a lot of children." He continued to stare at me blankly. I said "It's just for my family."
He made a face and walked away.

I knew this would happen someday. I always joked I could make some serious money driving people around during the day. Lucky for me I'm so over it. It certainly gave me a good laugh for the day!

Happy Birthday Bo!

It came, It came! Finally it is Bo's birthday. What a fun time we had at McDonald's. We arrived around 6, put out the table cloth(he he), got some dinner, and played a little. Grandma Green, Amy and family, and Sherry and family all showed up just a little later. I was worried about my big kids being ornery since they were too big to play on the slides, but lucky for me, they had video games. Normally I would really hate this, but this night, I loved it! Didn't hear from them at all. The little ones played and played. We opened gifts which was much fun. Every gift, Bo would say about 6 times "This is awesome!" He loved it all. Bo's grandparents in IL send him money for me to buy him things he will love so from them I got him: the diamondbacks ball cap from the previous posting, the Pooh lap top (not he can check his eeeee-mail), and the barney video. Thank You!!

We got cupcakes instead of one big cake which I thought would be much easier, and it was! It's always funny to watch them lick the frosting and then leave the rest of the cup cake. Not Katy though, she ate the whole thing. When I tried to take it from her to take the paper off, she swung it behind her back and smeared frosting all over Aunt Sherry who was sitting next to her. She is a girl who knows what she wants and will fight for it!

We were there until almost 8 pm and everyone behaved really well. Of course I got the comments from onlookers like"Crazy, brave, all yours?, etc" It was really fun and the mess stayed there!

This morning, his actual birthday, we all took turns giving him his birthday spankings, which for some reason, they all love. We love Bo, Happy Birthday handsome!

uneventful

An uneventful Saturday night. Glade worked till 9 pm so I spent the evening scrapbooking for my Grandma. I'm really starting to be excited about it. Chelsey spent the entire weekend at another Stake's youth conference and didn't get back till Sunday morning. Had our normal big Sunday breakfast, but I was smarter about it for myself. Got to church on time, forgot my camera for our activity days project, had to run home.
Katy is so hard at church, she just wants to run. Only 3 more months till nursery. They announced that another Temple will be built in Gilbert. That is very exciting. I'm sure it will be awhile and hopefully we will still live out here! Had to get my temple recommend renewed after church. Still got a little nap before everyone showed up for Sunday dinner. It was taco night. In trying not to ruin my week, I made a chicken breast, seasoned it with taco seasoning, put it on a whole wheat tortilla with low fat cheese. I still got to have tacos, but I was able to stay within my points for the day. I even had a point left over!
Today had a slow start, I was up quite a bit in the night with my allergies. I took some Benadryl about 3:30 and I guess it really knocked me out. Glade came in to say he was leaving about 7:10. I totally missed prayer and scriptures. I hate when he doesn't wake me up. He says I'm a big girl, but you can't just wake yourself up! Anyway, was able to get to the gym and have a good workout. We are going to McDonalds tonight for Bo's birthday so I'm carefully planning my points so I can eat there tonight. He is sooo excited. After the gym, we went and bought a "cake" (cupcakes)for him. Now I just have to wrap all his presents. I don't love that job.
Aha Moment: Talking to my sister-in-law on Sunday, I asked her about something and she said "Just from what I read on your blog" People read your blog! Of course we all know that, but actually WHO reads your blog...hmmmmm. I just forget that sometimes. Glad to have you Sherry!
Disclaimer: No spellcheck working today, not responsible for my own ignorance.

Funny Funny Funny

Last night we went out with some friends and saw a movie. I was a little skeptical since I have gotten pretty sensitive to vulgarity and stuff like that. This movie was soooo funny I was crying and even snorted! I won't say it didn't have any swearing because it did, however, it didn't feel offensive. The movie was Baby Mama. I know, looks goofy and I really don't like the blond, but it was hilarious. I haven't left a movie giggling in a long time. One of those quotable ones. Maybe I just needed a good laugh, but I would definitely recommend it. And just for info: licorice is not that "good" of a treat. By figuring it out, I could basically swap a chocolate for a stick of licorice. Which one would I choose..hmmmm. NO Brainer!

This morning we got up and got right to work on Saturday chores. Chelsey, Stephen and Nick are all gone which leaves poor little Cinderella(aka Whitley) all a lone for the day. While I was sweeping the kitchen floor, Bo wanted to help so I gave him a rag and told him to wipe down the chairs. He whined "I want MY rag". You don't have a rag, they are all the same I tried explaining. He kept insisting I bought him one for Christmas. Again I assured him I hadn't. He kept whining 'I want MY rag, the Mickey Mouse one". I still have no idea why he thinks he has a Mickey Mouse rag. FINALLY, it hits me. Yesterday, I bought paper goods for his birthday next week. I told him that I bought a Mickey Mouse table CLOTH. Ahhhhhh, now I got it. Unfortunately, he doesn't. After much explaining (I shoulda just taken it out of the package) he lets it go. He is very excited about his birthday. He has been talking about it since Dalin had his birthday in January. We are going to McDonald's with just our family to have a little party for him. He will love it.

Well, the day is half over and I still haven't made it to the gym and my taxi job is calling. I guess maybe my date night will have to be there. Happy Saturday!

I'm Alive!

just a quickie: I did it! I went to a step class. It was very spur of the moment and I'm sure I was the slowest one in there, but I made it! I'm sure I won't even be able to move tomorrow. It was circuit, so we did cardio then weights. Whew!

Big Fat 0

Well, I didn't lose any weight this week which is very frustrating since I stayed within my points and worked out every day but 1. I'm going to try to tell myself that this was the week my muscle started weighing something. Three pounds is my new goal. I really want it.

Yesterday totally sucked. I made a whole lot of decisions that I thought were very sacrificial and selfless and yet in the end I missed everything. I really don't get the justice in that. I guess life is truly not a bed of roses. Ah well, I must get over it or today will be just as yucky. My big kids are home today so I have them working on some projects. That's always nice.

Have ya heard of the "rice shortage"? I just have to mention it cuz it was cracking me up yesterday. I heard that Sam's Club would only let you buy a certain amount of rice. I will admit that when I went to Costco, I bought a couple of bags. I have a lot of rice already. But later that day, I was reading an article on MSN about it and then the comments that readers leave. I couldn't tear myself away! We live in a country with a lot of STUPID people. I couldn't believe all the different thoughts and angles people were taking on this subject. Oh MY! It was certainly entertaining reading. My thoughts in the end......Food Storage, gardening, budgeting, staying out of debt, scriptures. Any of that sound like new news? Nope. "If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear."

Superheros and scriptures

Scene: Whole family is around kitchen table reading scriptures. Each child takes a turn reading a verse. Dad stops to ponder the meaning of one and asks: What is Justice?

Child: I donno.

Dad: Who gives justice?

Child: Uhhhh, Superman, Batman, Spiderman......

the lone, lost woman

The last 15 hours have been somewhat eventful. I stayed in my jammies until 3 pm yesterday. Just sorted laundry and played with the babies. It was nice. Got my kids from school, did some spelling and headed to the gym. My scale has not been so nice this week so I decided to bump up my workout a little. Instead of running 4 laps, I ran 6. I was really excited I could do it. (not consecutively of course) On the way home I stopped at Subway and was waiting in line when guess who walked in - my sweetheart! Not even planned and we got to have a quick dinner together.
Got my kids off to mutual, and realized - I'm all alone. Well, 5 kids still at home, but all the little ones. What I really mean is NO BIGGEST LOSER. What am I gonna do now? That was my connection. It felt like my family was gone for hours! I watched a little Idol, but don't really love that. Anyone have another season of Loser I could watch? To make a lonely night worse, Dalin kept saying his tummy hurt and I kept saying "sorry, honey" when all of the sudden, you guessed it, all over the floor. Most of you probably don't know this, but I DON'T do throw up. That's Glade's department, but he wasn't here. Now what? Luckily, I watch Hannah Montana. Recently I watched an episode where she didn't want to smell something so she put vapor rub up her nose. It works! Armed with rubber gloves and some vapor rub I was ready to attack the mess. It gets better, as I'm trying to get all the chunks (sorry), my baby girl comes running to me and slips and falls right in it! I picked her up and screamed at my others to come and get her. "Should we change her?" they ask. Hello?!?!?!?!? She is now screaming because I have freaked her out and sent her away. Meanwhile, Dalin is in watching TV, all is well. I got it cleaned up and tried to get everyone to bed, but Katy wouldn't settle down so she and I sat out in the dark for a while. Just when she falls asleep, in come the mutual kids. Sigh. I give up. Glade is now on baby duty and I am in bed!
This morning wasn't a whole lot better, slow moving children-kids on the computer. NOT! I packed up and headed back to the gym for another good workout. I guess my body had decided that not enough time had passed and it wasn't willing to do it again. My legs were like jello almost immediately. I did run a half mile an hour faster than normal, but I was pretty sure I might fall down. I decided to go a little easier, but I got my strength back and ended up doing 4 miles and 20 extra minutes. Woo hoo! However, right now my whole body is saying "blah". Even picking up my kids is hard. I decided to take tomorrow off and maybe just do dumbells at home and give my legs a rest. Oh yeah, while I was in the locker room, I was walking and trying to untangle my headphones and I ran into a glass door! Embarrassing. Only one person saw me, but sheeesh!
The best news yet - We got our other house rented. That is such a relief! I'm not sure how long the lease is for, but right now I really don't care.
Loser, Loser, wherefore art thou Loser?

Yeah D-Backs!

We went to the D-Backs game last night for Stephen's birthday. We took all of our boys and 2 of Stephen's friends. We had a little bit of a late start so we missed the first few innings. Our seats were WAY up high! That's actually a good thing for the littler ones, they think that's the place to be. I told the kids we would get pizza at the game, little did I realize.....$60 later. I guess I underestimated the ridiculousness of food at a ball game. That didn't include anything but pizza! Crappy pizza might I add. We took water bottles and doughnuts for dessert.

The kids were a little restless since it's hard to get into the game being so far away. They really wanted to go back down by the organist so they could get on the big screen while we sang "Take me out to the ball game". We left our seats at the bottom of the 6th and never returned. While we were waiting for the 7th inning stretch, we found lots of other entertaining things to do. Bo had a fabulous time on the slides. They are fairly new so they were really slippery and were spitting kids out like nothing I've ever seen. Bo would pick himself off the ground and grip his little fists and say "That was Awesome!" He had no idea where we were going though we kept trying to explain, but by the end of the night, he kept saying "I don't want to go home". The big boys found a batting cage and spent some time there. Rhett did amazingly well. I was very impressed. They also had a little wiffle ball cage where they actually pitched to you, that's where Dalin spent his time. Bo and Dalin both got sparkly face paintings as well.

When it was time to sing, there were quite a few kids vying for the front spot on the screen, but Stephen and his pals manages to get a little time on. The D-BAcks ended up winning, not that we saw it, but Yeah! anyway. Before we left, they all signed up for the Kids Klub and pledged to be on the No Chew Crew. By so doing, they all left with nifty swipe cards, t-shirts, stickers and a few other little goodies. I think they had a great time. We got home quite late, but they all arose right on time this morning. Way to go boys!

Monday Monday, la la la la la

Saturday night turned out really fun. It's always interesting to learn about new people. It's amazing how different everyone is and yet our lives are so much the same. Good friends are hard to come by, but this ward is filled with a lot of wonderful people. We went to an Italian restaurant where I ate way too much and then out for ice cream(courtesy of my husband). Luckily I was really full so I only ate half of the little one I got. Our mall trip was successful. We had fun and everyone came home with something cute. A nice girls day out. Didn't get my nap though,missed that one.
Sunday was a little hectic. We had breakfast for dinner, so for breakfast, I thought maybe we should have mac and cheese or something. Glade didn't like that idea so much so we had waffles. The only problem with waffles at our house is that we have one little waffle iron, so it was a really lonnnnnng breakfast. Getting to church is always a little bit of a chore. We were actually early today! Sacrament was great, I love Bro. Cluff. I could listen to him speak forever. Chelsey held Katy (who slept) through the whole meeting so that wrestling match was eliminated as well. My boys always fight over who's week it is to sit by me. I hate that. I love that they want to sit by me, but I always feel bad for who's turn it ISN'T. So sad. I'm now team teaching with Cyndy in primary, which should be fun. I will still get to go to Relief Society every other week so that's good. We have very sweet girls in our class. The boys are a little bit of a handful, but nothing out of the ordinary. Today was extra special because Stephen has turned 12 which means he was ordained a Deacon. I was so proud of him. Sitting in on that was a very spiritual event for me.

Came home and finished off my left over lasagna. Then it happened. All my will power and self control went right out the window. We had gotten Costco chocolate cake for Stephen's birthday. That day I only ate half of a little piece. Today I tried to do the same thing. Not so good. I just kept thinking, one more little bite. So disappointing. Not to mention, I really felt sick. I haven't eaten that much crap at one time in a really long time. So I felt guilty and sick, that's some good cake, huh? To make up for it, I just didn't eat any dinner, which was Ok since I really don't love breakfast food anyway. I just drank a diet Pepsi instead. I was really proud of myself for staying out of the kitchen. I still ate way too much, don't get me wrong!

Tonight we are going to the ball game for Stephen's b-day party. I'm kind of excited about that. We are taking all the boys plus 2 of his friends. Well, gotta head out to the gym, work off that cake. I wish I was gutsy enough to try one of the classes. I'm just comfortable on the treadmill. What if I totally poop out 15 minutes in to the class, embarrassing!

Tropical Breeze

Last night was super fun! Our ward had an adult softball night. Glade wasn't able to come, he was in Pima with his scouts doing a triathlon, but I went without him and I'm so glad I did. I really miss playing ball. Maybe now that my baby is getting bigger, we'll start doing city ball again. It was fun. I do wish more people would turn out to church activities. Kind of sad how many people come. Anyway, got up and went to the gym at 7:15 this morning and they didn't open till 8. Dang! I went and grabbed a few things from walmart to waste some time then went back. My legs are killing me. My workout has been the same for like 2 weeks now, but for some reason my legs are really sore right now. I would say it was pitching at softball, but it's the wrong leg and I was sore before that anyway. This is the first time since I started working out that I have been sore. I really don't like it much. Talked to my dad today, I miss him. It was fun though, I was telling him about Chelsey and he said that he was a pole vaulter in HS as well! That's exciting.

Today is Stephen's birthday-HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEPHEN! We are going to do a little something here this afternoon for him, then Monday we are all going to the D-Backs game for his party. That should be fun. We didn't even go once last year! Stephen even woke up and went and mucked stalls this morning to earn money for scout camp. That's no B-day gift! He is a good boy. (nick went too- they really work hard)

Just about to head out to the mall with my girls to get some stuff for a dance concert. I think I'd rather take a nap, but once again - duty calls! Tonight we're going out with some friends in the ward. We haven't really done much of that since we moved. We still go out with our friends from our last ward. We haven't really wanted to get too attached living here just in case things didn't work out. Now that we have been here for 2 years, it's hard not to really want to put down some roots. Hope we don't regret it. Should be really fun though.

Funny for the day - I had just showered and gotten ready to leave and I put on perfume (which I do everyday - I love smelling good). I walked out to the living room and Stephen says "you smell good, mom" then Dalin chimes in "LIKE A TROPICAL BREEZE!" That kid cracks me up. He is never lacking for something clever or totally "out there" to say.

Yippee!

Another Friday, another weigh in. Would have loved 3, but got 2.5 which is still totally great since I only got to work out 3x this week. Must..keep...going! If anyone is totally bored of hearing about my weight loss, sorry. I want to be able to go back and see how great it made me feel if I ever gain it back, which is totally not in the plan. I'm finally starting to feel a difference. My wedding ring is actually almost too loose and that makes me kind of nervous. I had a goal of 7 more lbs before May 23 and I hope to blow that out of the water. I'm going back to my Gramma's 80th birthday party. They all saw me last summer, so it's not like it would be shocking to see me this heavy, I just don't wanna be and that seemed like a good bench mark to shoot for.

Yes I can!

So I know I just posted last night, but I made more giant steps! It was bugging me last night that I didn't go to the gym. After I took Whitley to volleyball, I thought maybe now I'll go, but it was just enough too late. Grrr I thought. Then it hit me! People actually exercise OUTSIDE. I could do that. I put my sneakers on and did two miles of walk/run up and down my dirt road. I'm sure I wasn't as fast as on the treadmill, it doesn't let you slow down, but I still did it! I also did dumbbells watching the price is right yesterday, waiting for the dish network guy to show up. Hurting from that one today. Today I went to Costco and we ALWAYS eat pizza there, but now there is a new Taco Bell right there. I went in knowing what I was gonna order to stay in my points, buuuttttt, I didn't stick to it. However, it still turned out really good. I left there totally stuffed and I didn't even finish what I ordered. Normally I would have eaten that plus a taco and maybe someone else's leftovers. (Hence the need to lose weight) I was really proud of myself for being strong and have gotten to a point where I would feel really full just eating that. It may sound like I am totally patting myself on the back here, I AM! Losing weight has always been something really hard for me. I could never get myself where I needed to be mentally and now I'm starting to really get it. I love it.





Today Glade ran a whole mile without stopping, Yeah for Glade! He is doing a triathlon this weekend. He wants me to do it as well, but I said "Nuh uh!" Even if physically I could totally do it, see, I have this hair. Swimming then biking, I don't think so. Anyway, if I can lose 4 more lbs, I will be at 10%. Don't even try to do the math there, it's a number my spouse doesn't even know. Embarrassing.

My cute picture for today is Katy. She likes to hang around while I get ready. She fished around in my makeup drawer (which is higher than her eye level) until she found the blush that went with the brush. She knew!!

This one is just for fun, What Whitley does when she gets ready for school to early.

Hip Hop Hooray!

To Think or NOT

Ok, do children actually have brains in those little heads? This is what my son did since he didn't have a book at school today.

Can I just mention these are brand new, worn once jeans. Grrrrrrrrr!

On the lighter side, What a beautiful day! I love wind. A cool windy day is almost euphoric to me. My boys took advantage and got out the ol' Diego kite I bought for Bo. Can I also say, I love having a yard! Just a note, before I even finished this post, the kite is loose and stuck in the wires (sigh)

The Biggest Loser

So Yeah for Ali! This is my first year watching the biggest loser and I have become extremely addicted. I'm not sure what I'll do now that it's over. It has been such an inspiration for me. I honestly felt bad for all of them. They are all winners and I hated hearing otherwise. I really liked Roger too. Then to have Mark lose by 1 lb! But I also loved Bernie and basically, they all deserved it. Sheesh, what a ride. So speaking of losing, I haven't been able to go to the gym at all this week. It's starting to wig me out a little. Everyday something has come up and gotten in my way. Those somethings mainly are my children's activities. I keep telling myself, "I'm the mom, they come first", but it's hard sometimes. Luckily my scale is still being nice to me. I just have to work really hard to stay within my points since I'm not burning any extra. Today we got DVR! I know, I'm really behind on all this technical stuff. We barely even watch tv so I'm not sure when we will use it, but hey, we can if we want to!

This is for my cousin Windi and Kaylin. This is our dog Jack. He is a white, American Shepherd with some Husky in him. He wouldn't budge much for me to get a good pic of him. Mostly he just does this!

Can't stop gushing

So tonight I spent the evening in an auditorium filled with brainiacs and mine was one of them. Chelsey was inducted into the National Honor Society. Since she was 4, she has been a determined and stubborn little girl. When she wanted something, she got it. She's always been that way. I can honestly say, she is the perfect teenager. I used to be afraid of them, teenagers, and still am a little, but she restores my faith. We keep waiting for the downfall. Braindead. I know she still has a way to go, but how blessed are we to have such a good, honest, hardworking almost 16 year old? She amazes me everyday. She has definitely set the bar really high for her siblings. Wanna know the really great part? As I listened to the names being called, there were all her friends. Not just names I sorta recognized. Her real, hang out with, always there friends. What a wonderful thing for a parent to see. I have always known she has great friends, but smart, hardworking, school caring kids as well. It's truly rewarding. I can't take much credit for this little gal. She was sent to us from above and we get to enjoy her. I know all kids are different and come with their own talents and abilities. I'm sure I dote on her accomplishments more than some of my other kids, their turn will come. They are all super. This is her time to shine and boy does she! Love you Chels.

Chick-fil-a

Had a good Sunday. Katy was a nightmare in church. I still think there should be a nursery for 12-18 months. That's the worst! Didn't have Sunday dinner, which truthfully, is kinda nice every once in a while. Stay in my jammies and have a nice quiet dinner with my family. Last night we made cookies after dinner. Bo was my helper for the day. I used to ALWAYS make them from scratch, but dadgummit, it's so much easier to scoop it from a bucket! Anyway, we had fun. First he would roll it into a ball and stick it straight into his mouth. He figured it out though.

Today was frustrating. I skipped (postponed) the gym so I could go get my summer movie passes ASAP before they were sold out. I also wanted to go get some straws for a fun project with my kids. Went to Walmart and guess what, no straws, "we're out". Just my luck. Then I went to the theater and guess what, "they are not on sale till Friday". I guess everyone who already has them got some deal through someone who got a deal from Corporate. Soooo, my whole morning out and got nothing I went for. Then it was too late to go to the gym. Katy falls asleep around 10 or 11. So we went for a quick lunch before naps. This is where Chick-fil-A comes in.

They have a great marketing scheme going on and I totally fall for it. I'm sure everything is marketing, no one really cares about my best interest. Anyway. It's totally overpriced, BUT, I always feel like a good mom when I take my kids there. They are totally nice. My kids get a book in the kids meal instead of a toy. They get juice instead of soda and they have these nifty little place mats that stick to the table. Very non-germy. To top it all off, we always leave with a balloon. So in conclusion: I pay too much for the food that is, I'm sure, just as unhealthy as anywhere else but come out feeling like "What a good mom I am!" That makes it totally worth it! Call me a sucker, I know.

Glade is out of town at a golf tournament. It's really BUSINESS, but for some reason I feel a little bitter about being stuck home while he is off playing, I mean working. Oh well, such is life. Gonna go lay down for a while, had a terrible nights sleep. Sheesh, creepy dreams too. Just gotta mention one. I was out of grapes so I went to the store where I ran into Shantell. She had some grapes stuck in the back of her hair and said I could have those if I wanted. I took them, but forgot to check out. She saw me and went home to tell the Bishop that we were thieves. Yikes! Wouldn't you just love to know why we dream what we do?

Yesterday was quite uneventful. I can't really even remember what I did! Oh Yeah, got up really early so I could take Whitley to the ortho. Her teeth are doing really well. She got her bottom braces on today. She isn't feeling too good. Spent the rest of the day just at home with the babies. Didn't even do anything too exciting. We had games night at our house, so I did a little cleaning. Once the kids got home, I ran in to town to buy a new TV. Our upstairs TV hasn't worked for several months now. I kept saying I was going to get a new one and just never wanted to spend the money. Since we were having games night and expected the kids to stay upstairs, I figured now was the time. Not to mention summer is around the corner. Went and bought a TUBE tv. They call them that now to make you feel like you are buying a dinosaur. I don't buy into that. My kids don't need a flat screen, lcd, HD, blue ray, pcdlme (ok, I made that one up). Anyway, I got the cheap TUBE tv and guess what? It shows the exact same shows! No one's eyes fell out or anything! But anyway, they were very excited to have a tv upstairs again. They all slept in the loft. Funny Funny Kids. Games night was not very exciting. Sorry Friends! We, I, kind of forgot about the game part and it was pretty late before I thought of it. It's always nice to sit and chat, but I missed being silly and playing games. I had to leave at 10 to go get Whitley, so that was a little bump as well. She has the greatest friends. So proud of you Whit. Katy decided she wasn't sleeping as long as there were people over either. So I kept having to go tend to her. Wasn't a very successful night. But Hey, I barely ate any of the munchies, that's something!
This morning, Glade and I got up and went to the gym. First we went to home depot and bought sprinkler stuff and some hibiscus shrubs to put in our front yard. I can't wait to have my yard look so cute! All in due time. Had to take Whitley for a sports physical. What a joke. $50 for a Dr. to poke her and ask her to breathe, just to say she is healthy enough to run around a track. What a stupid world we live in. Wanted to get a pedicure, but didn't have time. Glade and I are going out to try the movie thing again. We'll see if I can stay awake for that.
Chelsey went with her friends to visit a girl who has been in Phx Children's Hospital for 2 weeks. It's supposed to be prom tonight, but she couldn't go so some of the girls dressed up and went up to spend time with her. Did I mention what great kids I have?
My boys spent the afternoon out with dad working on sprinklers. We had irrigation today and this is what happens when you leave a 2 yr old unattended for 2 minutes!

This is just my crazy baby. All my kids smiled with their mouths WIDE open!

Weigh In

Welllll, I didn't lose 3 lbs. I lost 4!!! yeah for me! It's so much easier to stick to when you see it working.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZ's

What a difference a few Z's can make! I was a little sleep deprived yesterday and luckily for me (and my family) I got a great nights sleep and today has been really great. I can't even think of too many reasons why, it just has been. Went to Costco and spent way too much money. Saved a lot too though. I really hate unloading on Costco days. It really helps to have a man around the house at these times. That's why I 'm lucky to have Bo. No really. He loves to help carry things in and won't stop till the last item is in. He is the best. I even organized my pantry. That is no small task! I love seeing everything all lined up. Some times I walk in there just to look at it. Another thing I love, this may sound weird, but I love having a full tank of gas. I don't know, maybe it's just me, but I always drive away saying "ahhhh". I even got a little nap today. Katy has been a total grouch, no wait, she's laughing, crying, laughing, crying....girls! Yesterday Bo was hugging? her sort of. I said "why are you hugging her like that?" He said "Cuz she's my friend." After their naps today, she went from total tantrum (has a bruise on her head to prove it), to giggling and tackling her brother. All within about 45 seconds. It's amazing that even at one year, sometimes she just needs a nice long soak in the tub to make things all better.

Glade went to Salt Lake today to look at some equipment. It's weird to think he was in another state. When he got home, we went to the gym together. I love being there. Had to leave early to go pick up Whit. Bummer.

Brooklyn and Dalin have spent approximately 7 hours in the last two days getting there room clean and laundry put away. Unbelievable. They really shouldn't be allowed to room together, but my options are limited.

I heard from my cousin Windi today who lives in Germany. This whole blogging thing has been really great for catching up with people. I really love reading everyone Else's. Is that weird? Everyone's lives are so different, yet so much the same.

My kids got their report cards and YEAH, pretty darn good. Dalin can't seem to spell to save his life, but other than that they all did really well. That's always a relief. One more semester and then it's summer! I'm only excited now cuz I'm ready to stop getting up early and stop doing homework and stop having a bedtime and stop driving and stop getting calls from the principal. About two weeks after they're home, my story will be different.

Yesterday I drove by the ball fields to take Whitley to volleyball and was a little sad I didn't have anyone playing this year. I don't miss the chaos of it all, but I miss being there. Last year was SO fun watching Stephen. They actually know what they are doing and make real plays, it was great. He broke his arm the week before tryouts, so he is sitting this one out and I just plain missed sign ups for Brooklyn. She was really good too. Ahhh, the memories. Thanks Mom and Dad!

Gonna go have a nice relaxing shower WITH my full bottle of conditioner!

By the way, tomorrow is my big weigh in...I gotta make those 3 lbs!

Here are some pics of why they have been in their room for so long. Pictures don't even do it justice! what you don't see is everything under the bed and behind the closet door. They filled an entire garbage back with actual garbage!

Who You Are

Well, today has been a really crappy day. I won't elaborate, no one cares to hear that stuff, but I will say this: The Lord knows each one of us and knows what we need and how to speak to us. My friend Camille testified of that to me today. My heart goes out to her and her family as they mourn the loss of a dear man. As I have let the daily grind get to me today, a wonderful song brought tears to my eyes and reminded me of the big picture. If you have never listened to Women of Destiny, I HIGHLY recommend it. So instead of boring you with my day, here are the lyrics to a song that lifted me up just a little when I needed it.

Who You Are

I know you wonder if you'll ever have a day
When the kids stay calm, the laundry's done, and the dishes
are put away.
And sometimes you feel like your days are spent and gone
And the question running through your mind is what have I
gotten done?
And when you finally have a moment to slow down
At the end of your day
I know Father would say

Believe in what you're doing
Believe in who you are
Hold tight to the truth that you're a daughter
of God
Believe in who you're becoming
Believe in who you are.

It may seem simple-all the little things you do
But the lives you touch matter so much
And there's no one else like you.
And Father needs you to stand tall and faithful
To be all you can be.
Oh, if you could see what He sees, you'd...

Believe in what you're doing
Believe in who you are
Hold tight to the truth that you're a daughter
of God
Believe in who you're becoming
Believe in who you are

When it's hard to believe in yourself
And you feel like you're beginning to doubt
Remember...

He believes in what you're doing
He believes in who you are
Don't lose sight of the truth that you're a daughter
of God
That He believes in who you're becoming
He believes in who you are.

Hilary Weeks

boys will be boys?

So I have had a really productive, nice day. Good day at the gym, the scale is being nice. Tidied up my house, had a nice lunch with my little ones. Was just laying down for a nice nap when the phone rings. Not good. It's the school. One of my boys has been in a fight and has to be picked up. This is a fairly new situation for me. Both boys tell the same story. They were just messing around and the other kid (with admitted anger management problems) freaks out and pops my son once on the chin and again in the eye. Mine swings back and now the teacher gets involved. Both boys give identical stories and are sent home. My first thoughts are extreme frustration for having to deal with this in the first place. You know better! Then as the details come out I start to wonder if I should be too upset at all. Fighting is always wrong, but what are the instincts of getting popped in the face? I don't know, never been there. He definitely made some bad choices in who he chose to play with and what activity they were doing. (5 kids all pushing each over) So now what? I honestly don't know. Right now he is weeding my garden. Is a black eye and fat lip enough? Help!!

A Quiet Afternoon

Do you hear that? Nope, me either. Two sleeping babies and one very quiet house...aaahhh! Had a great work out this morning. Did you think I meant at the gym? No, I took those two sweet sleeping babies to the MALL. It used to be so easy, you know, when the baby just layed in the stroller and slept and the 2 year old was cute and agreeable. Not so much anymore. Bo doesn't want IN a stroller, he wants to ride ON the stroller. Katy, she will be a skateboarder. She's only happy if she is standing in the stroller. Luckily I had my trusty sidekick to help out. Good Ol' Mom. Even with the two of us, its still tricky. I let them play in the play area for awhile. They had a great time. I took lots of pictures hoping to get that ONE cute picture you can't live without. Didn't happen. Sure glad the film is free!
Went and ate lunch, stayed within my points, that was good. Found some FABULOUS deals at the children's place. Call if you care. I also picked up a really cute bag I have been eyeing at bath and body works for months now. My mom's good friend runs it so he got me a smokin deal. Then I had to brave the book store. Chelsey has to read this book for school that I'm not very happy about. Its quite gruesome. I really want to say something to the teacher. Not sure if that is appropriate or not. Gonna have to check with Chelsey. By that time, Katy had pooped twice and Bo lost a little sticker that he was determined to go find. I was really done by that point. I just kept thinking "breathe and walk fast!" Both were asleep in the car before we left the parking lot.
Funny for the day. Driving in the car, I looked at Bo and told him his face was dirty and we should wash it. He says "well you choked me on the counter!" (as he grabs his throat) What?!? I never did that! I protest. He insisted I had. I assure him I would have never choked him. He says, "like this, (bends way over with his arms out to the side). OOOhhhhhh, I get it now. When I wash his face in the sink, I lean him over kind of hanging by his belly, you know. He hates that and I guess calls that 'choking'. Whew!

Monday, crazy Monday

Slow start to our week. One of those "move, move!" mornings. Had a great workout at the gym. The scale was looking really good on Friday, not so much today. I hate the weekends. 3 lbs this week, that's the goal. I worked extra hard today and even ate good. Came home from the gym, aahhh, nice hot shower. Shaved legs, clean hair, oh wait...NO CONDITIONER! Anyone who knows me knows I can not NOT have conditioner. I shook and banged and shook some more. I could hear it in there. I squeezed out every last slimy drop. Not enough. (sigh) Thank goodness for children's leave in conditioner. Did some laundry, played puzzles with Bo, had a nice little nap and resumed the craziness.
Took Brooklyn to tumbling, thought "I'll just run to walmart and pick up some conditioner and a few other things, I have an hour" Ha! Couldn't find a fly swatter. No one there knows where they keep them. I went from one end of the store to the other and then, there they were. Bottom shelf of the insecticides, makes sense. Now I was really pushing time and was counting on a quick check out. Ha! I decided to check my self out. The lady in front of me just had to pay, great! Now if only she could figure out how to use the debit machine! Grrrr. I was really late now. I ran, literally, with my cart down to the bank. Just a deposit please. Oh sorry, your money market was closed out. What?!?!? I guess on Saturday, the lady at the bank had a conversation with herself and decided that's what I wanted to do. "It'll just take a second to reopen it" Ha! So I zoomed, oh wait, it's 5:30, I drove really slowly back to tumbling where I was now 20 min late. Did I mention that Chelsey had called 40 min ago saying she was ready to be picked up? Went and got Chelsey and her 3 friends, delivered them to their homes and now it is 6:05. Did I mention that my entire family was coming over at 6? Luckily I let things go quite easily and decided they could just show up to my not clean house and enjoy my not ready dinner. Isn't that what family is for?
The night went really well. We grilled out and put together 72 hour kits. I hope my kids grow up with memories of being prepared and it becomes a natural part of them. Looking forward to a good night's sleep!

Clarification

It seems that some of you are under the impression that I ACTUALLY bought those shoes. No way!! Just wanted to show the absurdity. I am now trying to bling my own shoes, that I'm sure, will be cuter than those!

Sunday Jam

Conference weekend! Ashamed, I admit that yesterday I completely forgot about conference until 3:18 pm. It was a crazy morning picking up kids from different places and it just slipped my mind. Luckily I can go listen to them Via the amazing Internet! (and I will) Last night, Glade, Nick and I went out to dinner before priesthood meeting. Usually Glade's family all go together and we wives go meet them after for dinner. This year we had to change plans because Glade bought tickets to the Ray Romano Comedy Tour. He came straight home from priesthood and we headed out for the 8pm show. I was a little nervous about it being inappropriate. I really didn't want to ruin my image of him. We got there right on time. There was a little mini opener who was kind of foul and not very funny. Then Ray came out and he was really funny! Tears kind of funny. It was great, all about marriage and family. THEN the last guy came out. It was his brother Robert from the show. Brad Garrett. He was FOUL. We didn't even stay a whole minute. He was using the F bomb like nothing else. If ever given the chance, skip that one. So we went for ice cream.

Sunday, a day of rest. Not this one. Got up early to make a big breakfast for my family, that's tradition. Watched conference. My kids did really well. I printed out packets for them and it was really helpful. Strange to not see Pres. Hinckley, but I've always adored Pres. Monson. Between sessions, we (Glade, the older kids and I) cut up 5 flats of strawberries to make freezer jam. Once that was done, we started refilling our 72 hr kits. Chelsey is amazing. She packed her kit so well we were able to fit in another oatmeal and a pack of cookies!

After the second session, which I think I enjoyed a little more, we got started on the jam. Amy and Tyler came over to help, that's also a tradition. I made my first ever batch of home made chicken noodle soup. Didn't even use a recipe. I thought it turned out really yummy. Glade and Tyler did most of the jam making. They were like steam rollers! Ended up with 44 quarts. That should last a little while.

My kitchen was an absolute wreck! Luckily I have great family. Everyone pitched in and helped clean it up. Amy even swept my floor! I was so thankful cuz now I can go to the gym tomorrow instead of staying home and cleaning. It kind of stresses me out when I don't get to go.

So though my day was busy, it was very productive. That's the kind of busy I like!

On a really happy Mommy note: Last night about 1:30 am, several lights flipped on. I sat up to see who was in the hall. It was Bo. He woke up, went potty, and put him self back in bed! Not a word! I put all his diapers away today. whew!

We used about every bowl and container I own

Chelsey working on 72 hr kits

Geography and Shoes

This morning we awoke bright and early to head to Tuscon for Stephen to compete in the State Geography Bee. We had to be checked in at 8 am. Glade, my mom, Stephen and I headed out about 6am. Traffic was horrible and we got there a little late but that was OK because they tell you to get here so you can sit and wait, which is what we did. They invited the top 100 students in grades 4 - 8 from the state. That in and of itself is quite impressive. They had 5 rooms with 20 students each. Stephen was the first up in his room. There was a series of 8 questions they had to answer. It was quite nerve racking. The first 5 questions were some type of multiple choice so it was a little easier. Stephen got all of his right as did the majority of other kids. Then the last three questions they had to come up with the answer themselves. I can't believe anyone on earth knew the answers to those. Stephen missed his first one. He was soooo close! Out of the 8 questions, he got 7 right. Pretty dang good! After the first round, they tally the points and search out the top 10 for the final round. Only one kid in our group got all 8 right. There were 7 kids that got 7 right including Stephen. Usually, the few that got them all right are automatically in the top 10 and then they have a tie breaker with all the 7's to see who the rest will be. We were so excited that he made it to the tie breaker round. So we thought. For the first time in the Bee's history, exactly 10 kids got all 8 questions right. No tie breaker. We were very sad. I say sad, but what I mean is SO impressed and proud of our son! He was amazing and knew things I could never imagine. It sure makes your heart swell to see one of your own succeed in such a way.

We all went to lunch at Red Robin (Stephen's first time). He loved it. It happened to be in the mall, so OBVIOUSLY I had to make a quick round to continue my hunt for some really cute shoes. I actually found 3 options. Hooray for Tuscon! I finally made up my mind after and hour of dragging my poor husband and son around the mall. Wellllll, they didn't have my size. Go figure. I came home empty handed. For fun, I took a picture of one of the pairs. They were perfect! If you didn't count the price. Any guesses??

$130!!!!!

I guess some woman named Deborah Evans personally glued each gem which were some kind of special, expensive gems. Whatever. As far as I know, Deborah Evans is the 5 yr old girl in China who works too many hours! Now my ambition is to bling my own flip flops to look just like them but with Wal Mart gems! I'll show her.

Had a wonderful day with the ones I love! Thanks Whitley for taking care of my babies and to my mom "HAPPY BIRTHDAY"!!

Stephen was supposed to go to a birthday party when we got back, but he lost the invitation. We turned the house upside down looking for it. We called anyone we thought might possibly know someone who would know someone who could get us the information. After and hour of tears and frustration, we decided to just call down the phone book. It worked! Only took about 6 calls. I was so happy for him. He doesn't go to a whole lot of things like this and he had had kind of a rough day anyway. When we got in the car to go, he was saying how amazing it was that it worked out. I said "if you just think outside the box and go the extra mile, you can accomplish a lot". He said "and pray." I love that kid.

Here are some pictures of the day.

Stephen and the scoreboard

Red Robin!!

Stephen in his new Geography Bee Shirt - Man he's cute!

What I learned Today

What I learned today was:

-to appreciate the little things your spouse does (taking Rhett to orchestr at 7:15am)
-babies like to poop in clean diapers
-roaches eat their dead (witnessed that one)
-good friends cut your hair on a moments notice
-swiffers were not meant for people with actual kitchens and actual dirt
-mopping earnes me 2 pts on Weight Watchers (might have cleaner floors from now on)
-you CAN miss a teenager
-falling asleep with a baby's chubby cheek on your own (chubby) cheek is blissful
-one bad url can cause a lot of frustration
-I know basically NOTHING about geography
-there isn't a single pair of REALLY cute shoes in this city
-Webkins cost $15 (what a waste)
-never trust a phone # written down by an 8 yr old
-dimples are the best!
-compared to others, I have a really boring life!

Bounce in my step!

Have you ever had a day where you just felt like you were walking a little taller? That was my day! Not even sure why. Morning started out kind of rough. I'm not sure why some mornings my kids forget they have to go to school. Ten minutes till its time to leave and I have one in the shower and 2 with bare feet and unbrushed everything. Hello?!? Why DO kids hate brushing there teeth so much? I say in a nice sweet voice, "go brush your teeth" and then later I say "let me check". THEN it turns to "GO BRUSH YOUR TEETH". Can't figure out why it's such a big deal. Heck, Bo wants to brush his teeth all day long!
Had two at home "sick" today. They probably should have been at school. I went and shopped for the 72 hr emergency kits today. I was SO excited. I thought it was going to cost about $8 per kit but it ended up to be only $6.50. I even put more food in it than last time! I was a little worried about fitting it all in the container but it worked out perfect. I posted the menu if anyone is interested in getting prepared.
I think Bo was dry today. He doesn't tell me anymore. He just goes. I went in to offer help when I saw him run in there and he very maturely told me "I got it!" Alright then. So I let him run around all day with his undies on backward. Time out. Bo wants to go brush his teeth, haha!
Ok, so last night when Whitley was throwing up, she laid in her bed and I guess fell right to sleep. Chelsey got up and turned out the lights. Whitley in a panic says "Chelsey! I think I'm blind! I can't see!" Chelsey assured her that throwing up doesn't make you blind and that she had just turned the lights out. The fun never stops.
Went to the gym this afternoon. While I was gone Whitley fixed dinner and as I was pulling up, so was Glade! He actually made it home to eat with us. Yeah! Cleaned up the kitchen, watched Deal or No Deal, and had a nice hot shower. It was just one of those days where you feel good about all you've done I guess. Chelsey just got home and had a rough day at track. She is a trooper though.
My sweet Mom is really sick. She didn't get out of bed or eat for 24 hours. Been there done that, and it totally sucks. At least she is too sick to worry about the break in attempt. Thank goodness Donna is still there.
I'm 18 pages ahead on my scriptures!

name search

Here is a fun site my dear father sent me. www.howmanyofme.com
It tells how many people have the same name in the US.

Laurie Smith 1742 laurie is the 354th most popular name and smith is, of course, #1
Stephen Smith (glade) 8281 stephen is the 53rd most popular name

the "needs" game

So this is a little game Kathy did on her blog. You type in your name (ie: Laurie needs) into a search engine and see what comes up. I only did it for Glade and I which was actually kind of funny since Glade is, you know, an airfreshner! Here's what I found:

Laurie needs mourning and remembrance
Laurie needs to lose weight
Laurie needs a favor
Laurie needs more police reserves
Laurie needs a crash helmet
Laurie needs a copy of The Complete Idiots Guide to Your Civil Liberties

Glade needs a home
Glade needs to really focus on service
Glade needs special care
Glade needs a hero
Glade needs to make an airfreshner (he he)
Glade needs a users manual - AMEN!

Sabotage!

72 hour kit menu
OK, so sometimes your family can be really cruel and not even know it! On Sunday, SOMEONE brought their left over chocolate pie and left it in MY refridgerator. Not a very nice thing to do to someone who is trying really hard to lose weight. I resisted for two days and today could no longer do it. I ate it. And it sucks. I went to the gym, worked off 500 calories and then ate probably more than that in about 18.3 seconds. For future, there's really only one good place for that, the garbage! And that goes for anyone thinking they don't want it around their house anymore. Grrrrr.
Today was a fairly good one. Had two good nights of sleep in a row. That doesn't happen very often. Went to the gym this morning only it was extra good cuz my hubby came with! I was so happy. It's much easier to accomplish a goal when you work together. It was a little awkward, I like to talk, him, not so much. It was ok though, I just liked having him beside me. I just have to remember not to get mad when he loses 30lbs in the next 2 weeks. You know how men are. I have only lost 13 lbs, but I feel better. I don't see much difference in my body, but it must have come from somewhere. (my chest ) Anyway, I'm still determined and that's half the battle.
Bo was completely dry today. I hardly even have to remind him, he just goes on his own. It's soooo great. He has even woken up dry most of the time. Rhett was still sick today and Whitley just said she doesn't feel well. Man, I just want everyone to feel better. It's been almost 6 weeks straight that we have had someone sick.
Today was crazy scout day. I'm in the car about every 45 min dropping off or picking up someone. This goes on from 3 pm till 7.
I never fix dinner on this day. We call it "fend for yourself" day. Makes a mess of my kitchen, but no one is here to eat all at the same time so it works. Got caught up on my scripture reading today. I'm actually 5 pages ahead. WooooHooo!
Tomorrow I am going to Costco to get the 72hr kits. I always love that. It's great to pile up the cart with tons of wierd, unrelated stuff. Makes people look. Oh, by the way, Brooklyn and Dalin did a really good job on FHE. Kinda funny though. They prepared some summary questions and they would barely let us answer before moving on to the next one. No discussion, just movin on! They tried though and I know it always makes them feel good when they accomplish it.
Lastly, I have never been a "Biggest Loser" watcher, until this year. I really hate the end. On other shows, its all about the money so you don't feel too bad when someone goes home. This show is different. It makes me cry every time. They have all done amazing. Truly inspiring.