our world

Baptism and Confirmation for Sperry

2012-01-25T14:42:00.000-08:00

Sperry is so excited for this! Big thanks to Grammie Sue for helping us find the perfect dress.

On the road again

2012-01-25T14:39:00.000-08:00

If you are following our saga to get settled here in Colorado, boy do I have some twists and turns to share with you. But, right now I'm in the thick of it all and can only provide a very brief synopsis. We are moving and it's been very fast, lots to do, and to have 3 housing contracts to balance all at once lets just say it's taken all my attention. We are very grateful to announce the close of the sale of our California home will be early February. This blessing has stretched us and has given me more insight to how our Heavenly Father will keep his promises. Sometimes I'm the one who jumps to interpretation and need to be patient as the plan unfolds. Here's a realtor made slide show of our "new" house. We love it and are excited to stay in our ward with all our new friends.
CLICK HERE to see a New home slide show. Enjoy!

8th Birthday Hooray

2012-01-10T15:35:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday Chica!! Sperry has been wonderful daughter every single day. She's unique and one of a kind but there are so many things that I love about her, her's my short list.
-She is fun and funny. She makes friends quickly. She knows how to choose the right and has decided to be come baptized and confirmed next month as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She is lightning fast in soccer and so smart. Artsie and creative galore, she even designed the header for the blog this month! She's a brave one. She has jumped off the high dive in swimming since she was 6 years old. We are very proud of you. As President of the love club, we hope that there will be many days where we feel loved and show you how much we love you. Welcome to 8 our Little One, you are the bestest!!

Spruced up, spruce down

2011-12-26T15:21:00.000-08:00

It's the day after Christmas, and as a "forced" holiday tradition...everything holiday get's put away and returned to the basement. With the house feeling emptier now that the Spruce tree is boxed away, and the quick clean up (Sprucing up) that follows...I keep thinking how this year was a very memorable one for us.

With the recent move, new friends, old friends, and all the blessings we could handle, we end on a note of gratitude. We had a wonderful and quiet Christmas Eve dinner. Of course the tradition continued with the fondue pots sputtering and the Elders (Missionaries for our Church) over for the meal. It was so delicious & I'll be posting the recipes soon. One of our Elders is originally from Taiwan and it was so cute teaching him how to eat from Sperry's "cheese and meat appetizers". Yes, the meat and a slice of cheese can go on the cracker to be eaten together. So cute! After several years of having a broken camcorder (sorry Sperry, we've missed some of your childhood), we decided to splurge and found a great deal on a new one. Unfortunately, Christmas is a time with big stakes in learning about a new camcorder. We successfully spent most of our "movie time" looking at the computer mouse and listening to Jacob and Carter talk about a computer game. We thought it was "off", so I think we missed some of the important things that we were hoping to catch when we thought it was "on". Our kids had eaten, downed the Santa Shakes that we make every year, and after a wonderful discussion about the signs of Jesus Christs' birth from the Bible and the Book of Mormon, they went to bed.

The next morning, we found several strands of Christmas lights had been strung leading us down the stairs and from room to room in the basement. At the top of the lights was a sign, "Follow the Light of Christ for the best presents" to help us remember what this holiday was all about. Going from room to room, it was fun as we were lead by the lights to the next gift, opened, and moved on to the next. Ken became Barbie's new Home Teacher, a ripstick (skateboard), new wii game, and each of the kids received snow boots (a necessity out here we've found). We are grateful for miracles, memories and family. This year has flexed our faith muscles, but the Lord has supported us in unexpected ways. We are grateful for a new job Scott loves! New schools and friends that are being enjoyed by the kids, and a new warm and friendly ward. Thank you for all the love and support you have given us. We are grateful to see what 2012 brings.

Sargent Sayings 2011

2011-12-05T11:00:00.000-08:00

We thought you'd like to hear...some things that were said in our house this year.
Keep reading down our blog and there will be, each member of the family featured you will see.
So bundle up with a cup of hot cocoa, and read of the tales of each person you know.
"There was starlight on the hillside, And one star bent very low. Till it passed above a stable on that night so long ago. There were shepherds on the hillside on that night in Bethlehem. Heav'nly hosts appeard proclaiming joyous tidings unto them. There was Jesus in the manger, Born that night in Bethlehem. And the shepherds left the hillside, and they came to worship him." From There was Starlight on the Hillside, Christmas song.

Sperry, almost 8

2011-12-05T06:39:00.000-08:00

Sperry loves candy, making friends, and is super funny.
Below is Sperry's Halloween assignment for school, it will give you a little idea what makes her... well, her.

My Halloween Adventure, by Sperry
I woke up very exsided because it was Halloween! It was a very, very long day at school. Finally, it was time to go trick-or-treating! First I got dressed in my costume. I was Dorothy. I got to use my mom's make-up! She let me use eye shado, maskeara, and lipstick! I even got my stuffed dog for Todo!
Next, we went trick-or-treating! Me and my brother Carter raced to each door. Ding, dong went all the doors. "Trick-oro-treat!" I said. Sometimes I said "Twick-or-tweat!" Then, I went home with three ginomaes bowls of candy! Last, I jumped in my bed and I slept real good. It was the best night ever!

Carter, age 10 1/2

2011-12-05T06:18:00.000-08:00

Hopefully negotiating Labor Unions isn't in his immediate future. Carter has a big smile, cool hair, and a very creative personality. Carter's school report on "Allowance" taken directly from his backpack in November 2011.

"We must have allowance right? We need to have a fair share right?
But some moms don't always get the message really well. Even though we need some money to rent or buy a video game our moms will always say no. That isn't really fair. So I'm going to start on my presentation about how we need money!

When you have money, it's like you can get things whenever you want. And you won't have to constantly tell mom that you need money. And if you want to get some more money then you will be glad that you can get allowance every week or every month to get money. But if you want it sooner then you will have to maybe do some chores to get money sooner. You can have a savings account to so all or some of your money can be safe in the bank instead guarding your wallet from your little brother or sister. And you can name how much you get ever month (check with your mom if it is necessary!)

So if it's exceptional to your mom to have allowance. You hit the jackpot! But if it's not, keep talking about it! That's my presentation about having the right or getting money!"

Editor's disclaimer: these opinions are shared only by the author of the report and may not represent the views of his mother

Jacob, age 12

2011-12-05T05:37:00.000-08:00

Jacob is a big fan of BYU, friends and of course spending some quality time with his mom (still working on the last one). He is a great artist and has a clever way of saying just the right thing. Here's an example of his work, a recent birthday card to his dad.

Cover of the card from Jacob to Scott

"Where your money goes"

(look inside for chart)

note the child in rags. it cracks me up every time.
CLICK on artwork to see it larger.

Scott & Marci, typical age for wise parents

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

After a very crazy fast move to Colorado, our hearts are filled with gratitude for:
Faith, Family, Friends (that live in sun or snow), a great new job, teachers, and for being members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
For your gift this year, please feel free to print out the pictures below of sheet music that might help bring music to your home this Christmas season. (Don't worry, It's copyrighted music and the owner gave permission to distribute it.) Comment to me with any problems you had while printing out the music, include your e-mail and I will send it to you personally.
Merry Christmas.

Carter's late night

2011-11-28T10:00:00.000-08:00

As the shopping days approached, Jacob and Carter were asking if they could go with me on Black Friday. At first, the didn't want to plan their shopping trip. I kept "encouraging" them to decide on a store and plan what they wanted to get. The did a great job preparing for the trip by selling video games on Craigslist to earn cash for what they "needed". As the countdown to shopping hours drew near, Jacob decided to hold onto his cash, but Carter wanted to go to the daddy of all black Friday stores, Best Buy. His latest "mario and sonic" game was released a few days before and he noticed that it was $15 less if he went that night. At 11:30pm (super late for him, this boy takes his sleep seriously) we ventured out and I asked him again if this is what he wanted to do. He slept on the way to the store and that power nap seemed to re-energize him. We stood in line which went completely around the building and into the parking lot next to Applebees. Once again, I tried to tell him that it didn't look good...we might not be able to get the game since there were soooo many people and only 4 of this specific game avaliable. Also we learned that the boy just behind us in line was after the same game. It just didn't look good. But in Carter's pure optimistic view he told me, "let's do this Mom. It will work out an be fine". Also true to Carter's form, he made some very funny remarks during our 45 minute wait to get into the store. I loved spending this time with him. We made it in, he got the game (shocker for me), and then proceeded to stand in the worlds slowest line. Mental note for shoppers: if you stay back in a dept for check out, mind that the manager checking out customers will try to sell "add on" insurance, speakers, etc. So our wait in line for 1.5 hours was all worth it when the big grin came out with Carter victorious on his quest.

Thanksgiving: food & football & fun

2011-11-26T16:51:00.000-08:00

This year was quite a quiet Thanksgiving. We cooked the turkey on the BBQ, made rolls, and even made mashed potatoes with gravy (usually we make oven roasted potatoes). And our new employer gave everyone turkeys this year. Super nice of them isn't it?? Note the feathered headbands that Sperry made as name holders...so cute! Jacob made his soon to be world famous green Key Lime pies and of course Carter was all about the Pumpkin pies that he made. It was all delicious.

After dinner we had our big football game, girls against boys and our new neighbors joined in the fun. Scott had to become my relief QB so I could be the team photographer.

Family with nameholders. Guess whose got the flower?

Carter catches some Air on the ramp

Feasting & Family fun

the BIG game

Family: Gathered round for the festivities

Dramatic display of strength and skill in our front yard.

As much Gratitude as stars in the sky

2011-11-22T08:13:00.000-08:00

Last night for Family Home Evening (once a week, we do something as a family) we had a gratitude wall.

I wanted there to be a place that we can look at all week that shows us what we are made of. During the process of giving thanks, we recognize who we are. I wanted the wall to be big, bright, bold, and busy with things that we are grateful for. I bought two packs of sticky notes shaped in stars. At first I thought, they only have stickies in shapes of butterflies and stars...what am I going to do with that? I knew the boys would NOT go for the butterflies, so I bought the star shaped stickies. Abraham's promise came to mind, that his posterity would be as the stars in the sky. After that thought, I knew exactly what to do with the stars...put them all over a wall in the kitchen. Granted, there are many silly ones up there like: light switch (with an arrow pointing to a light switch), the wii, wool, potty's and funny sounds. But there are also some that read: prayer, scriptures, family, temple, food, friends, and heaven.

Carter, I'm grateful you agreed to be in a picture

This THANKS-giving, may we not only think of the things we have been given, but for the promises that are ours to earn as well. In giving thanks for past and present, while giving our best in the future...our sense of who we are and what we can become will be as big as the stars in the sky.

Lesson in climbing and Belaying

2011-11-21T07:35:00.000-08:00

In our adventures in our new land, Carter and Sperry were very interested in rock climbing.
Two stories of support from fingers and toes with concentration the key. While they learned about climbing, I was about parenting.

Carter's confidence and concentration


Sperry rises up

Look at her fancy footwork

Carter reaches the TOP

It's not easy to see your children work up a rock and have only a rope to support them. I've realized my job has been changing as my children grow older and more independent. I go from the main caregiver, to a belayer. Wikipedia defines this as "A belayer controls the rope, keeping it taut and preventing long falls."

With a lot of choices in their path of life, some can be confusing that scream out for attention and distract them. But, in the climb, the goal is to reach upward and eventually the summit. Jacob, Carter, and Sperry, there are things to be anchored in this life. You can be happy no matter the storms that come to challenge you. There are principles that will bring happiness and security. I've found that the teachings of Jesus Christ to be one that has anchored my soul. It has helped me to climb farther than I thought, have confidence in what I'm doing, peace that is achieve in no other way, and recovery if I slip or fall. You are able to do great things. I see great things for each of you. As a belayer stays on the ground to steady and support, they also have a view of what lies ahead. I love you and am grateful to help lift while you find firm footing.

Elder Jeffery R. Holland has stated, "I believe we have all been created for greater things that we can comprehend. The times call for great things, but great things in the noblest and most redemptive sense are predicated upon tolerance, love, respect, understanding, dignity, prayer God. When you are confronted with challenges that are difficult to conquer or you have questions arise, the answers to which you do not know, hold fast to the things you do know. Hang on to your firmest foundation, however limited that may be, and from that position of strength face the unknown."

R U tough enough?

2011-11-09T15:48:00.000-08:00

This morning, I saw the sun was up and bright, it didn't snow like the forecast forecast-ed, and Scott was ready to get on his bike commute to work. So when the kids asked if we could ride bikes to school, I said "sure". Little did I know we should always check the outside temperature, it was about 30* way too chilly for me to be on a bike. My kids were in shorts and we were very unprepared for the mile ride to the school. Poor Sperry's knees were red and Carter just booked it onto school. Carter was smart enough to wear ski gloves, his new poof coat (that I bought yesterday since we only had thick jackets prior to the purchase). Sperry and I kept things light, jackets and light gloves...yes and she was in shorts. Reality check, like you'd think I'd have it down by now...it gets cold out here. On my way home, I called Jacob and told him that it's way too cold for him to ride his bike. When I arrived home, Jacob had on his poof coat, ski gloves, and was in jeans. He told me that it's been that cold for several days and he's ridden in cold before. Once again, he's got it handled. I guess the girls of our family are still California Dreaming on such a winter's day... but then again, out here I get to see very pretty sunsets. Here's one I snapped at a spotlight.

Life's Marathon

2011-11-04T07:59:00.000-07:00

I heard this wonderful memoir this morning on one of my favorite things: NPR Story Corps.
The narrative is about a woman who as a side effect after her brain surgery to remove a tumor, suffers from short term memory loss. This moved me to tears...Each one of us have experiences that we have learned to adapt within. I love how she asked her boyfriend to not read the mile markers during the run of their first marathon together. He kept telling her that they had been running 10 minutes or so. She tearfully finished the marathon and was so happy to see that her strategy worked.

Think of the strategy's that will work for you. Don't measure things in what you used to do, measure them in the joy you have now. There are a lot of mile markers in life that we need not be focused on. Just take things 10 minutes at a time.

cLicK hErE to launch story:

To hear more, StoryCorps click on the box above (and another favorite story, search on their site under "korban". It's a story that you will never forget, truly amazing.

oh yeah, Halloween

2011-11-02T22:34:00.000-07:00

What does Dorothy, a Skier, and a Taco delivery guy have in common?

This year for halloween, it seems to be taking on traditions of their own. Sperry has a cute costume that someone has given us. And she agrees to wear it for several years (her ruby slippers almost fit here during year 2). And Jacob and Carter...well that's another story.
Several years ago, I went all out for Halloween. I broke my budgeted amounts for costumes and got a cool Narnia costume for Jacob and a Ninja costume for Carter. These costumes were awesome and somehow I justified that it would be worth the extra dollars spent because my boys would spend hours dressing up and playing in these costumes. Well, by the time Halloween came around, the boys had changed their minds with what their costumes were to be. I told them that they had to go and wear their Original plan. They did, but since then, we have the agreement that they can pick whatever costume they want, minimal effort, minimal cash request, and it might be something that comes together as you walk out the door for a night of trick or treating. So, to answer the above question: What does Dorothy, a Skier, and a taco delivery guy have in common? A happy mom who has low stress holidays and appreciates her kids creative style. Thanks Grammie Sue for joining us this year. We loved having you here.

Loving Tribute to Greg

2011-11-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

Gregory Louis Goheen,
Join us in celebrating the life and times of Gregory Louis Goheen June 19, 1971 – October 7, 2011.
Loving son of Penny Buchan and Frank and Stella Goheen. Dre’s amazing boyfriend and husband. And to their children, he will always be Gabriel’s (7) best friend,and Jordan’s (6) nail painter. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 15, at 10:30 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 8267 Deseret Ave, Fair Oaks, CA 95628.

He is my brother in law and today I have to share my heart about him, his cute and heroic little family, and the things I have learned from them. My sister Andrea met Greg and we all just thought, "Hey this guy can handle this spicy gal." I was impressed right from the get go. Greg's the strong silent type, he speaks when he needs to. And when he shares, you will want to listen. He and Andrea are such a great match for each other. They both loved to cook, and I'm talking gourmet cooking. They put me to shame (but I happily ate everything they made).

Greg, you learned how to get answers from God. You were baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and held the Priesthood. I am so grateful that I was there to witness your baptism. Even during that time, your body was often in too much pain to bear. When you were baptized, it took both my brothers, Quinn and Aaron to help you lower your body for complete immersion. That day you taught me that you will find a way to do the difficult to achieve something you want.

I could relate to you because you had chronic pain (much greater than mine). You were learning how to adjust to the things you could do, and not doing all that you wanted to do. But somehow through it all you remained a powerful presence in your family. Your kids adore you, and always will. Andy always found strength through your support. I have learned that even when you are complete with your work here on the earth, you remain a powerful influence in the lives of your family. Somehow once again you will be given errands to support your wife and children as they forge ahead with heavy hearts, missing you. I have never seen so much strength in my sister Andy. I know she will continue to feel of your love and support. You are missed. I am still so surprised of your passing. Thank you for teaching me how to love and support others during the physical roller coaster. You have completed the things you had to do here on this earth, and have been joined by those who love you and have already passed. Thank you for being a part of our family.

Some were asking me how to donate helping this sweet family. Donations can be made to
Schools Financial Credit Union phone: 916-569-5400 on 6000 Main Avenue Orangevale, CA 95662 ACCOUNT: Andrea Goheen. Or if you'd rather send something directly, post a response and I can e-mail you her address. Life gives us a little more gratitude when we see time as a gift.

Waiting game...chapter eight

2011-11-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

Once again it's snowing here. These storms have dropped over 12" during a 12 hour period. I see the trees on our yard that are loaded with leaves, and the additional snow has brought some of them to their breaking point. Some days, I feel a lot like those trees: not shedding leaves from the previous season, moving quickly into another season, feeling a little caught off guard, or unprepared. During these times, I get weighed down in the "heavy weight" of small things. I worry about my house not selling, it's been a little over 2 months without a written offer. Every once in a while, my branches heavy with worry and stress.

Even during these times, I allow one day of "heavy snow" and the next day I forge ahead, finding courage and daring the sun to come. Even out here in Colorado, after each deep snowfall, the sun has appeared the next day helping the branches to wear their new load with beauty. I have found comfort and peace during our little storm season and realize it is only a test to remain faithful when I see no end in sight. We have been promised that all will work out, not to worry, and to write of this experience. I can't have my writings complete without sharing the days of deep snowfall. Even on these days, there are things that help to sustain. A husband who is a whiz at numbers and helps me to understand how long we can sustain financially cost of two homes. Kids who are amazing during this time of forgoing allowances (albeit small) and realizing on their own how they can contribute. Friends who will listen to my complains. And prayers and times to be humbled while we watch for our miracle. Being still and knowing that God is there for each of us. It's just the season for snow; even in winter the sun shines brightly.

to the rescue...chapter seven

2011-11-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

Here we are at chapter 7. Are you getting sick of all the details now?
We were happy to be in our new house, new area, new friends to make. I had to get out of boxes!! I've got a little problem when I'm not organized, I feel really unsettled. So I put all my adrenaline to good use and all the strength I had been blessed with and set up shop! But it doesn't mean that a girl can go without her little mommy. I asked my mom who is queen of organizing and settling to come and help me out. She and my brother Quinn made a weekend road trip out of it and came out for a visit.

They were great sports as I had them clean out yucky mold out of our extra fridge, organize my first ever pantry. Wow, those things are cool!! And help me get my first ever laundry room inside my home in ship shape. Thanks guys for all the help. I loved having you guys out here. Next time I won't work you so much.

We continue to wait for our perfect buyer. And as I wait I figure I might as well "pay myself" to be patient. I am not going out and buying all my dream furniture...but I can look, right? I call it "Dream Bucks" you can plan all you want, and don't actually have to pay for till later. I've got to remember all that I do have. All the kids are settled in school, Scott loves his job, and I have to admit this place is really growing on me. It's beautiful here, all the untouched protected areas add to the "wilderness" element I love. We have the perfect kid neighborhood with all the kids congregating to spontaneously play in the streets. I'm still getting used to the idea of kids playing in the neighborhood, unscheduled. And they run happy! I've even been riding bikes with the kids to drop them off at their school. I love all the paths that cut behind the houses to the pond and take us directly to the Elementary school. Jacob straps his trumpet case to the back carrier on his bike and sets out on his 3 mile one way trip to the middle school. Pretty impressive, right?

Our house has had some interest, but come on...I can't drop my price that much! The talk hasn't been reasonable. So, I will focus on my family and home here until the right family is found that wants to buy my house there. More patience please, with a side of smiles.

Goings on...

2011-10-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

I've got a full mind, so of course instead of calling up everyone...I decided to call a special meeting on my blog to blurt out all the goings on. There have been things that are changing, children growing up, home sales not moving, surprising funeral to attend, hearts to heal, and watching things work their way out that I can't control. It's been good.

I must start out with the wonderful news that will embarrass my pre-teen. He's the one in the BYU t-shirt with a big smile. Jacob has turned 12 years old and around here...that is VERY big news. He's much more calm and collected than I am. He handles himself "cool" under pressure, and likes to be independent. My favorite statement from him "I GOT this mom, you don't need to be over protective". This past Sunday was a memorable one. It was his 12th birthday and a few nights before, he had invited several new friends (who are also "cool") to do a little bowling and pizza. I was amazed that when I told him that his younger brother and sister would be joining the bowling crew, he was fine with that. Believe me, I wish I could take credit for the lessons he has learned. We had a great time bowling and seeing him interact with his new friends. Then, Sunday was our ward Primary program. I mentioned to Jacob a few weeks ago that he's in Primary, until he's out of Primary. So since the primary program occurred on his birthday...he got to be involved one more time. He has "got" this one covered too and handled his part with grace and poise. He was able to be ordained to the office of a Deacon who holds the Aaronic Priesthood (the Power of God given to worthy men). I'm so proud of him and am grateful to be learning from him. Jacob, you have got "this, that, and the other".

Sperry on the loose!

2011-09-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

Our little Sperry girl is someone I have to write about. This girl is on the loose I tell you.
She is very cute, friendly, smart, happy, and talented. Did you know she has been waiting for her baby teeth to fall out? She has been waiting since the first day of kindergarten. I guess it just took moving to a place where the air gets a chilly fall morning. Yesterday she found one bottom tooth was loose, and she is so excited. She has been giving it a work out and cant wait to trade a tooth for some cash!

Oh, and this is the same girl who after a long meeting with the Bishop of our church...thought the "old" phone in the hall of our church was so funny with the big receiver and the long cord. She was playing on it and then quickly sat down quietly. I asked her what number she just dialed. She told me, "911, mom I didn't know it would call. There's no "talk" button like on our phone at home." I had to calmly tell her that if the fire department thinks this is an emergency, all the people who are in the chapel for church will have to leave the building and go outside. That's several hundred people we are talking about. Big Sigh. Fortunately for us, the nice man called back and I explained that it was not an emergency, just our daughter playing on the phone. Scott and I couldn't laugh about this for about a week. And, Sperry has been on doggie do-do duty for the next 2 weeks.

But then again, this is the same girl who has a really cool bedroom. The most comfy bed in the house (thanks friends!) and is getting super great grades. She is our most avid love-note writer and always is one to cheer up the sad and make someone feel glad. I'm so glad she is our Chica and is quick to make good friends. And, I'm hoping that she has learned her lessons about emergencies. (Does this type of stuff always have to happen to us?)
Sperry Specs:
age 7 1/2
Favorite sport: soccer
Favorite books: Judy Moody
Favorite Food: Mac n' Cheese
Working on: keeping her room clean
Favorite dessert: candy & ice cream
Special talent: painting, making friends, thoughtful. She is a very good reader and tries to be a good friend to everyone.

And here's her little snowman. Can you see the smiley face?

motionsickness...chapter six

2011-09-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

moving saga continues...
Motion sickness is something that I get all the time. I get sick on a plane unless I have earplugs to help my equilibrium. I get sick riding in a car and looking at a map. And of course, I can get sick going through experiences so quickly that it makes my head swim. Yes, I was getting motion sickness following all the details in such a short period of time. For example, our house hunting trip.

During our house hunting trip, I could not have planned it any better. I kept feeling like I needed to stay thru Thursday in Denver. My mom kept assuring me that it will be fine and the kids will love a few more days with their cousins. I wondered, "do I need a little alone time? Why would I set my flight for 2 days after Scott returns to LAX?" I felt I was being pushed to stay a few days to learn the streets and find a route to the kids schools and to get started on the paperwork. I'm glad that I stayed because I needed to be present to help with the counter offer, I was able to visit both schools, and got the car insurance all tucked away. Our offer was accepted, we would be renting from them until our home sold (we could rent thru January). I had an address I could start putting on all my paperwork. I had a new floor plan that I loved and got to figure out where furniture would go. I felt really good as I flew back to pick up my kids in Utah. I spent the night at my mom's and then early, early the next morning we started our drive back to Cali. We had to get them ready for school (or at least 6 days of school).

We promised our kids that if they read the Book of Mormon this year, we would take them to Knott's Berry Farm. Sperry had to read 100 pages, not the whole book. And, I prefer the words, "earn" instead of bribery. But either way, I hoped it would help them to get into the habit of daily reading from a book that can change lives. If it took a trip to Knott's for them to deepen their testimony, I thought it was a good investment (and a good way to release some pressure we've been feeling and kick back...scream a little, and enjoy the day). Who knew that I was the biggest whimp of the family. The coaxed me into going on one minor roller coaster while Sperry was the biggest thrill seeker of the group. While we were playing, we talked about how many families were going through our house and all the realtor cards we would come home to as proof.

No cards! When we returned home, we found that no one had come while we were gone to look at the house. I freaked out again because I wanted our house to sell quickly, as in my time "one weekend". But I have learned that the Lord's promises are sure and I need to be patient. I don't like being patient, I like to get in there and get 'er done. But it became obvious that we were to focus all our time on getting the house ready, pack up our gear and move on out. And we had to have at least one trip to my favorite beach to watch the kids boogey board, build sandcastles, and get my head to stop swimming.

Two weeks later, we left our house empty, vacant, family-less...this is not what I wanted to do. But we decided that we were to move as a family. We didn't want Scott try working during the week, and flying home to LA every weekend. So we left our home, and took our family to a new adventure in Colorado. Our offer had been accepted, and the Labor Day deadline fell right into place.

Mental note, pack the sleeping bags and pillows when you embark on your roadtrip to your new home. You will need them as wait not so patiently for your new home. Living in an empty house for 5 days till the stuff arrived. I still can't wear the 3 outfits that were the only ones I packed. They got a lot of wearing during our trip and move in days. When the moving truck came, the kids were already in school, Scott had been at his new job for days, and I was ecstatic to dive in an empty boxes!

not the house, but the street...chapter five

2011-09-23T22:46:00.000-07:00

We arrive into Denver and have Monday and Tuesday to make something happen. Scott and I ask Matt, our Colorado realtor to widen our search to additional towns. I had spent hours upon hours before the trip looking on the internet and was feeling a little dejected because I didn't see a lot of new listings since our last trip two weeks prior. We spend Monday looking at several properties in surrounding areas. We increase the search to include 2 floor homes, but at the end of the day, my body was dragging and I was concerned that two floors wouldn't work for me. None of them feel as a fit for us. Some of the homes, I didn't want to spend any time inside, because I felt strongly it wouldn't work. (and one belonged to a cat lady and the allergies started to kick in.)

One of our agreed conditions of the home was that we didn't want an older home that had more maintenance associated with it. And, wouldn't you know that Scott started to feel really good about an older home that would cost significantly less than what we were planning to spend. The dollar signs started to light up in his eyes and yes, the backyard was wonderful. But I had to remind him of our plan and lovingly explained the things we would have to do in this home to get it to feel nice and newer. Then, it was my turn to get a little "struck". I wanted a home that was mostly white and super nice condition. It was one story, but it was more of a grandparents home because the backyard was 95% flagstone patio. It was really pretty, but Scott nudged me into the right direction again.

I'm getting a little frustrated because we are down one day and have a second day to find a place for our family to live in a few weeks. We asked Matt to set appts to see homes on Tuesday and he talks about the other home in the same cul-de-sac of the home we were going to put an offer on. We continue to widen our search in surrounding cities for Tuesday.

The home that Matt mentioned, was one that we saw on the first visit. It was cute and I loved the curb appeal and the main floor and I was impressed with it during our first trip out. It had a finished basement, but had only one guest room in the basement (the other had 2 big bedrooms). But, we couldn't get over that it would be right by the other house we would have put an offer on. We didn't know if we could get over loosing that house we planned to purchase. Late Monday night, while Scott and I were discussing how the day went, Scott mentioned "maybe the impression that you had wasn't for that specific house, but it was about the street? I think we should go into that home again and see how it feels."

We finally agreed to see this home again at the end of searching on Tuesday. Tuesday, we looked at the edge of our $$ range, and still the houses didn't seem to be working. We like comfortable and easy, and many of the homes seemed a little too fancy, or had 2 floors. A few of the homes would have worked, but something didn't click. At the end of Tuesday's looking, we went back to the street that we loved, and to the neighboring house we thought to place an offer on. When we entered the home, we both felt really comfortable about moving our family there. It was an amazing feeling to see how things would work, how we could set up the basement so it would fit our family, and even where the dog would go. It felt exciting and just fell into place. It was like an answer to our prayers. That night, we prepared a contingent offer and asked if they would rent to us beginning in two weeks.

as a miracle...chapter four

2011-09-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

(wow, this is a long story. but bear with me, it's a part of our family history. and if you are just joining us, please begin at chapter one)

In the prayer mentioned earlier, it was promised (and this part still makes me nervous, but I'll share it with you anyway) that our house would sell quickly and it would be as a miracle to our family. It would manifest to our children that the Lord is mindful of them. With this prayer in mind, we began our long list of "house to-do's" before we could have it listed. We had one week to get it all ready and it was a nail bitter, but we had so many people helping us, I couldn't believe it all came together. My friend Jan surprised me on a day that I was overwhelmed to tears. She told me, "we are coming, because we love you." I still cry writing this now. She had asked several sisters to drop their plans and serve our family for whatever hours they could spare, doing the ever super fun, manual labor. Shelly planted flowers and helped with my scrape project, Cathy and Corinne I literally sent packing starting with specific rooms, Tarja gave me some scrubbing elbow grease, Jan cleaned carpets, Barbara got her inner karate kid and helped me paint our wrought iron fencing, Shellie and her husband helped weed and plant flowers in our "vacant for years" rounder. And there were many more in the behind the scenes work lending prayers, emotional support. I felt what "relief" felt like. It quickly made the load feel bearable, and I appreciated it so much. During this "rush to market" my kids lived as vagabonds. They made their own breakfast, lunch, found things to do watched TV. Each morning they were mandated to participate in a big home improvement project each day. Sperry even practiced on our old gate, hammering in nails and painting. They rarely complained, and were hard workers. Scott even got our local Missionaries to serve us by painting and attacking some ivy. Thank you to everyone (and there are so many more I didn't have room to mention).

Two weeks after our "interview" visit, we decided to do another trip to Colorado to find a house. My plan was to take the kids to Utah and attend my nephew JC's wedding to Jordan. It was an awesome wedding and so fun to see everyone. My sis, Kris handled the "mother of the groom" title with grace. After the wedding, I left the kids with grandma's and cousins (they had a great time and didn't even miss me). Thanks everyone, it was a group effort and you guys are lifesavers.

When we were with a realtor, there was a neighborhood that felt good to us. There was a house that we loved, mostly because it had a finished basement and a yard big enough for a trampoline. In preparing for our house hunting trip, I felt the impression "I've shown you where, now make it happen." Scott agreed and we planned on going out to put an offer on this home, contingent on the sale of our Cali home...oh yeah and we would need them to be ok with us renting their house till our house sold. Tall order, but we thought it could be done. The plan was for me to fly out from SLC Sunday night and return Thurs afternoon. My goal: have a house under contract (escrow), an idea of insurance stuff and visit the would be elementary school and middle school. A few days before I flew out, the home that we saw and were planning to put an offer on had been...shockingly taken off the market. What happened? Why would we have felt so good about this area, only to have this home taken. I started to question things. Maybe we shouldn't even be going out again this soon. Maybe we should put the time frame later to allow more time for additional homes to come on the market in Colorado. Maybe we should cancel this trip, and get the kids ready for school. If we kept to our original plan, the kids and I would return from Utah 5 days before school started, and I had not purchased one pencil to prepare them.

Scott calmly mentioned that he felt we should go forward with our plans. Good thing I love this guy, cause I was ready to cancel the trip. I flew out from SLC and Scott flew from LAX (in Sunday, and he was to return Tuesday afternoon.) for our house hunting trip.

Come as you are...chapter three

2011-09-23T19:34:00.000-07:00

(this is chapter three, for newbies...seek for chapter one first)
The day after the interview, we set up a day with a Colorado Realtor, Matt. Our fab friends the Cox family watched our kids for the day as Scott and I went in about 7 houses. It was a quick pace, which was becoming the norm for everything about this move. During our interview visit, we wanted to get an idea of areas that would be a fit for our family.

Our criteria for a home included: keep it in the budget, a ranch style home, family friendly neighborhood, newer than our Cali home, basement for the kids to kick it in, AND close to schools and shopping. Actually, each of these were on my list, Scott's list was more like, "I want to be able to ride my bike into work and keep it within 30 miles of work." Now that doesn't sound like a lot of things to meet, and during that first look, we found a few homes we really liked. There was a neighborhood that stood out a little more than the rest. We didn't know it yet, but the Lord was working on us. (thank goodness).

We retrieved our kids from the Cox party house and on Sunday we visited the ward that belonged to that neighborhood we liked. The ward blew us away. It was big...like 150 kids in Primary. There were several friendly people and it was a congregation that has a mix of kids between teenagers to babies. After recovering from the initial shock of the sheer numbers, I liked it.

We flew back to LAX and had some good laughs about the contrast between LAX and the Denver airport. It's like going from the masses to "many". It felt like it would be an easy transition going to Denver in the "commute" department at least.

Scott and I started to do the math: finding a home, getting our home sold, school starts within a week, and oh yeah, our callings that we liked. I had just been called the month before as Relief Society President (In our church, this is working with women: humanitarian efforts, Sunday lessons, building spiritual strength, and remaining sane as we balance it all). I really was enjoying serving as Relief Society President, I was learning a lot and we were cruising. There were so many things that we were working on and it was fun. I had to tell our Bishop that we had to keep things on the down low, but that we would be moving and it looks like I was to serve as President for a record breaking, brief 2 months. But, if the Lord calls your family to another area, you follow His lead.

I was a little overwhelmed, and we contacted our realtor who has the biggest heart, Lea Stevens. Lea was our go-to realtor and a part of our family. We asked her to help us with each of our moves, this would be our 3rd time working together and we knew we were in good hands. After listing our home, we had to decide how we would manage the move. Would Scott commute from CO till our house sold? Do I stay with the kids till after the first semester of school (and I could get some extra bond time with all my gal pals)? What if the house isn't in escrow before we have to move? What if we don't find a house in Colorado? Once again, we turned to the Lord in prayer. We felt we were to come as we are, a family. We were all to move together and felt that Labor Day weekend would be the big commute day. Even when that was only weeks away.

6MOV843...chapter two

2011-09-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

Sorry, you might want to read chapter one first (scroll down) if you are a chronological person.

During our "no strings attached" trip to Colorado, we were taken with the beauty of the area. It's so pretty out here, I've seen more rain and lightning out here than I do in a year in California. It all started when we landed in at the Denver airport. The rental car we were assigned had California plates, the only Cali plates we saw on the lot. Our car's license plates read: "6MOV843" What, we are a family of 6 (as long as the kids insist on keeping our dog.) And the letters "mov", well putting in context of the purpose of our trip...I thought it was so funny that it read "move". Now for the 8 in the plate, I can't make up any relevance. But the 43 were some of the house numbers we looked at (and live in, 14300) more about this later.

We asked our family to be prayerful during this trip. To see if we were to make a change, of everything. Once again prayers were answered unexpectedly, but clear. Turn by turn, in and out of neighborhoods, I was driving around without a map and with the kids in tow during Scott's interview. While I was driving I had another impression come to mind, "this is where you will land." That thought brought a lot of peace and broke through the "what are we...crazy. To even consider this job that came out of the blue." thoughts. I felt happy, at peace, and considered how my kids would react to their new "hometown". The kids were so excited to talk about snow, skiing, and a new adventure, it took me by surprise. It was welcomed news and once again, peace came.

Later at dinner that night, Scott was excitedly talking of the possibility of working with this new company, Barber Nichols. He loved the projects they were working on, how he would be able to wear different hats in his responsibilities. And, the people, he couldn't wait to get to know the people who were so friendly and comfortable to talk with. The company is much smaller than the one we have been with for over 13 years. They employ 75 people and want to keep it small, private, and personal. Scott longed for less red tape in his current job, but he loved the people he worked with. This was going to be hard to leave all those friends who have taken care of us for so long. A family from Barber Nichols invited our family for dinner that night and they graciously answered all of our questions.

Scott called the new company, Barber Nichols, and accepted the job. He was to begin work in 3 weeks. We had no idea how much work was in store for us making it all happen.

One Month...chapter one

2011-09-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

If you had ONE month to: interview with a new company, accept a new job, go house hunting in another state, find schools for your kids, leave a wonderful ward family, fix up your house, put your home on the market, work with 2 realtors, go to your nephew JC's wedding in Utah, and pack up all your belongings to move...would you do it?
If you would have asked me this early July 2011, I would have said there's no way. But then again, I had no idea what was in store for us this summer. It has been quite an adventure, and I'll give you some of the details. Because, I always like the details.

It all began when our family was happily comfortable with our schools, Scott's job, our friends and the So Cal lifestyle. Jacob was practicing football, Carter was on the swim team, and Sperry couldn't wait to begin playing soccer again with friends. But, this past summer felt very different for me. I kept telling my husband, Scott that something was different about that summer. We had to be very flexible this past summer, our plans kept changing and we had to roll with it. Our vacation dates would change and where we would go camping changed. In our Church I was asked in early July to serve as Relief Society President which was a big change. I didn't even have time to visit the beach which is one of my centering spots. There were more changes to come to our family, and I didn't even know it yet.

Mid July, a phone call came from a recruiter about a position that was interesting to Scott. He told them that he would be happy to hear what this company had to say, but let them know that we were very happy and settled with where we were. He wasn't interested in changing jobs at this time. The phone call from the company was very friendly, and they had some great projects that Scott was interested in. But, once again, Scott graciously mentioned that we were settled and he wasn't going to make any changes at this time. We laugh now at how we thought we knew what was best for us.

Nothing happened, two weeks went by and then a friendly e-mail came from Jeff, one of the Engineers from the company in Colorado. Jeff wrote in his e-mail that they knew Scott wasn't interested in changing, but asked if we would be interested in taking a trip with our FAMILY out to Colorado to see the area. It was the "no strings attached"" that caught my eye in the e-mail. Wouldn't that be a fun trip for us? Sperry had never been on a plane before and the job did sound like something Scott might like. The interview would only take part of Friday, and the rest of the weekend we could play.

While Scott and I were deciding if we should accept this trip offered. I had the impression that if we were to make this trip, relocating our family would have to be something we were open to. We would have to see the area and decide if we could see our our family could living here.

The trip was wonderful and it was fun to see Scott so excited about projects and the workplace. The kids loved the area and were elated with the fact that it was 4 hours closer to see the grandma's and cousins. It felt like a fit and I knew that we were being directed by our Heavenly Father to make a change. I guess I was too comfortable and there was another place the Lord wanted us to be. It was all falling quickly into place. Did I say quickly, I mean at the speed of sound.

1095 Tuttle Ave for SALE

2011-08-22T22:59:00.000-07:00

Wanted: a good family to love this big lonely house. My family will be moving soon. I'm looking for another family who can buy my love and live here, play tag in my backyard, and I come complete with my very own mailbox. Please come and visit me, meet the wonderful neighbors, and build memories just like the family that has shared many wonderful memories here.

By the way, this family that I've been talking about will really miss this area. They have loved all their friendships shared in the area. And just because they have moved, don't worry you are still in their hearts. Oh, and they expect lots of e-mail, phone calls, and visiting hours are "open" after Labor Day.

from Cali to Colo...

2011-08-21T20:14:00.000-07:00

I've been absent. Not absent minded like you might be used to by now, but we have been working on our big, unexpected, excited, sad to leave wonderful friends, excited to meet new wonderful friends, going to a new job at a new company in a new state...news. We are moving from California to Colorado.

So, with that as our background, now I think you'll find it with understanding that I've been so absent from my blog. Goodness, I couldn't tell you until Scott gave notice at his work. And, we have just been running around like crazy learning how to go from a zillion freeways and zillions of people to an easier to navigate freeway system and many new people to meet. What an adventure to think we are all in place for the upcoming school year, only to have things all changed. We embrace the change and know that the Lord has something different in mind for us. So we invite you to our world... here's a few pictures. Ok, no pictures. My computer is temporarily prohibiting this. But pictures will come I promise!!

House in California...and yes, for sale if you are a potential buyer!

Weirdo Mom Discovered!

2011-08-21T19:14:00.000-07:00

The very frequent weirdo mom was discovered after a painful loss at Othelo. Luckily I was there at the scene then after that she threatened me that I would never get allowance again if I posted this picture, but here I am. Enjoy the picture post it everywhere and show all your friends!

Signed: Jacob :) :)

MOM POST: I noticed this post recently that Jacob had written. Never win me at a game I grew up on loving. Of course I am posting his note, but the picture has been "misplaced" by our Editor.

Diving for Dollars

2011-06-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

This Title is a little deceiving. But, I'll share the story of how to dive in 5 minutes or less.
We were swimming with my fab friend Marschelle. Come to find out, she used to dive competitively and was giving a couple of girls pointers on the diving board. I'm not one to walk away from an opportunity for my kids to learn something else that I can't do... I asked her if she would help my kids in the "pointers" rotation for diving tips. That girl is part miracle worker...within minutes Sperry who had never done a "knee dive" before advanced from a knee dive into a beautiful dive from the diving board. I had to put my eyeballs back in my head and loved it so much. I asked if she would take a few minutes to help the boys. Jacob and Carter needed a little incentive so I offered them 30 minutes of "goody bucks" (thus the "diving for dollars tactic) that could be turned in for computer time as soon as we got home. They stood in line and they all can dive well from the diving board.
To be fair, the boys had a little previous training in diving from poolside, but I was so impressed.

Thanks to Margaret and the clan for helping us have a very fun summer outing and thanks to my miracle worker. And, one day I'll bring my camera to the pool to provide proof. Once again, my kids keep conquering my "mom aint good at this either" list. Hopefully they will complete the list, which is very long, before they leave the nest. On that day, with tissue in hand, I'll wave them goodbye knowing that they can do whatever they put their mind to. And that my kids have exceeded all my own list of shortcomings. (tissue, wipe tears away...those happy tears).

Double GULP

2011-06-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

We are in week 2 of double gulp...a new service job for me at my church (I'm a happy: LDS, Mormon, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints girl. All in one). I have been asked to serve as the Relief Society President. Woah, don't you have to be serious to do this? I guess if they asked me to do this, they don't care for a kick of krazy sometimes. So I'm excited to work with all the women in my church helping to support them in their endeavors to be closer to God, serve others and help their families grow stronger. It's a big responsibility, but where ever there is responsibility there must be balance right? So I guess my list to, "what I did this summer" has changed a little to include more meetings. But, you know what...I love it. I absolutely love it. (followed by another **gulp**

Pianists in Progress

2011-06-15T20:34:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Sperry and Carter played 2 songs each at their recital. Jacob has moved on to band in the fall...you know in middle school you get to pick the instrument? Well, he is going to be "practicing" or waiting until I remember to remind him to practice his favorite piano music (Star Wars and Hello Muddah Hello Faddah). Carter did a wonderful job with his surfboard boogie, he likes the Jazz songs you know. He just got up there and played with the tricky tempo and all. It was groovy and a very proud moment for his mommy. Sperry has really caught the music bug. She played the band comes marching and the tune is in my head for the next week, daily. I really don't mind the catchy tune rattling in my mind because it makes me think of how happy I am that my kids are getting their music appreciation time.

My dad would be so proud. Dad was always involved with music in one way or another. He worked for years at Kawai (best darn pianos ever), loved to listen to music and attend concerts. I can remember world class musicians coming to our humble home playing to "inspire us". I'm a big music person. Music can bring out emotions in you that you didn't know exist. Get lost in a song, and thank me later for this gentle reminder. Oh, a funny thing...the summer music schedule at the Farmer's Market in La Brea on Sept 2nd is the good old band, Gene Loves Jezebel. Wanna join me?

Jacob's creation

2011-06-09T12:08:00.000-07:00

Jacob has got some great creative talent. IN this school project he needed to incorporate all the shapes found at the bottom of the page. Doesn't this look like something in a comic book? Thanks Jacob, I love that you can do this sort of stuff!

Bri's Bracelets

2011-06-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

My friend Marcella Spease-Prevost has ordered purple bands in honor of our friend Bri (similar to the LiveStrong yellow bands). They are sold for $5.00 each and all proceeds go to Bri's family. If you'd like to order one of these wonderful reminders about what we are living for... please put your e-mail on a comment and I'll have her get in touch with you. Or if you happen to know the wonderful Marcella, you can of course contact her directly.
Well done Marcella with another great idea to help others!

Carter's 4th grade play

2011-06-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Woah, is this my Carter up on the stage singing, speaking a memorized part, looking relaxed and enjoying every minute of it? What a wonderful surprise to see that Carter was up there like he owned the place. He even got to say a joke (he's got great delivery by the way) asking, "has anyone seen my cat?" It was funny and very entertaining.
I loved watching this kid grow into his own and becoming his own person. He's got a great sense of self and has a big heart. Thanks Carter for the entertaining play. You and Merryweather Clark are both adventurous frontiersmen. You broke new ground as a 4th grader and I'm so happy to be yo momma! Of course I'll try to put on some clips of the play for the grandma or the reader who enjoys a good musical about the establishment of the west. But in the mean time, just know that for me there was only one star...Carter.

HAGS to you

2011-06-07T08:28:00.000-07:00

Scott and I were looking over Jacob's middle school yearbook. Sixth graders out here get a choice to continue in Elem. school or attempt middle school. So, he ventured over to middle school and it was perfect choice for him, but his experiences are now typical of middle school and it takes me back. (if you need a flashback, see Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2, Rodrick Rules. It will have you back in time within 5 minutes.)

We noticed in some of the signatures and notes in his yearbook included "HAGS". It took us a while to figure out the cryptic message, but the next day Scott figured it out. It stands for the old stand by, "Have A Great Summer". I guess the acronyms are now a way of life. So HAGS to you and yours. We were laughing, so hard...why did it take us time to figure it out? I guess because we came from the full words version in our days. When I showed Jacob some of my middle school yearbooks, He laughed at the things we would write. Remember giving out your phone number, letting everyone know you were so glad to have a class with them, and how your older sister would sometimes write her descriptions of people in your yearbook under their pictures. Jacob's favorite signature from my yearbook was something from our wonderful Colette Clark. I had never noticed it before, but it was so funny how one letter can make all the difference. It said, "Marci, you are so sweat." I hope she meant "sweet". Colette, did you mean sweat or sweet? You'll have to get back to me on this...oh great now I'm self conscious...just like in middle school. :) HAGS, now maybe our kids will take us up a few notches on their "cool-o-meter".

little mommy in the house

2011-06-01T08:29:00.000-07:00

Where to even start...my mom reached an age "milestone" recently. She said that she wanted to hear all the fun things that are shared at a funeral, while she is still alive. So instead of some hokey team building exercise, I decided to throw her a party where all the guests bring a short talk and tell some stories about mom. We called it a "fake wake" and it was so much fun. My mom was grinning from ear to ear the entire time while hearing stories and thoughts about her. She's influenced so many people and my mind was filled with memories from growing up. Thanks everyone for making it a successful party. I did an original cheer complete with pom poms because my mom was a cheerleader in high school and growing up we would hear a random cheer of encouragement from time to time. Aaron made up a poem, Kris shared some memories, and Quinn kept talking and talking (trying to top mine, but we all know my tribute was the best). Andrea even came in via Skype to share her thoughts. My uncle shared of times when they were little growing up in the small town of Salem. Everyone share some good memories that took me back. I forgot that we would make "boats" to race down the irrigation ditch. I forgot that she would tell others we were "precious cargo" when a friend drove us places. Jamie made up a cute poem and Sara shared from her heart, Wade told some funny stories of when he and Kris were dating, and Wes expressed new gratitude for the recent addition to his family. Larry, my mom's husband, shared some cute insights to life in high school and then meeting up again at a high school reunion. It was a sweet night, and of course we had to serve ham, funeral potatoes, rolls and the RIP cupcakes.

My mom flew back with me to spend some time at our house. One day I even took the kids out of school (which I never do) so they could have a movie day with lots of treats. We loved every minute of this visit and it really helped the kids to get to know their grandma one on one. She read and played games with the kids and just came to be a part of our craziness. Thanks grandma gorgeous...you are beautiful inside and out.

oh man... end of school year thoughts

2011-06-01T08:10:00.000-07:00

Some of you are out and about enjoying those lazy summer days. Don't worry, we will be there with you soon. However, right now we are in the push to get finished with school. I am struggling to remember about lunch money, snacks, homework. I want to be thinking about the beach, museums, sleeping in, bike rides, camping, watching Phinneas and Ferb and eating BBQ on our patio. I do love a good school year, don't get me wrong. But sometimes there are the times when you don't want to be responsible. You get to let go a little and let things slide a little, and just enjoy. I'm also in the get things organized and clean out mode. Beware my children, we will be cleaning out toys and going into the depths of our closets all in the sake of sanity.

Speaking of sanity (remember that the post title said "thoughts" and my thoughts can get pretty random so just go with it.) I've been thinking a lot about those who have had a life changing event. In a move, new job or searching for that job, tornadoes, health crisis, or just plain things that happen to all of us...like life! There have been so many things that keep us in a constant state of learning. I guess I'm grateful for new things to learn. The trail can be pretty rocky but there are so many examples of strength and faith out there. Sometimes it takes the toll of an unplanned event to see their example shine through. I've seen a lot of shinny examples lately taking things one day at a time and rebuilding through hard work and faith.

At the end of the school year, my hopes of being a "fun" mother are high, and so is my hope to have energy enough to support the previous hope. I'm learning a lot from my children. The are excited to try new things like Jacob is playing tackle football (hope the plays will not be rehearsed on siblings), Carter is kicking it up with the swim team (he loves the water), and Sperry will be working on her swimming with a smile just like always (she even jumps off the high dive). My kids help me to see it's time to try new things and to be excited about it. Of course they can earn the initial summer shake for trying something new the first time. A little sweetness can help to calm fears. So, this year I'm going to try a few new things. I'm working one day at Cub Scout camp, work through family history, and trying to ride a road bike. These things are intimidating to me, but then again with so many people trying new things in life...why not join the fun. And to Scott, thanks for being my biggest cheerleader. I know you don't want pom poms, but you are so appreciated. (and to the rest of my cheering section, you know who you are and how much I am grateful for you).

Bri Brave, Bri Strong, Bri loved

2011-05-05T18:11:00.000-07:00

A note to my friend Bri: she has fought valiantly, but the cancer is everywhere and she is finishing her work here upon the earth. So, I'm writing a little note of things I would like to share with her. She knows my heart.

When I first met you I thought: Geez, is there anything this girl isn't able to do? She can run in the Boston Marathon, is a fabulous mother, very sweet wife, and reach out to others in a personal way. She has a brilliant understanding of why we are here on earth and where we are going. Her light is so bright, many wanted to find the same light; an assurance of a loving Savior and Eternal Father in Heaven.

Bri would get it. A few years ago, when I was so weak or struggling with pain and the difficulty of not being able to do all the things I used to, Bri knew how to relate. She would always say the right thing to calm my heart and help me continue with joy. When she had her down times battling cancer, once again we were able to talk about the things that really matter. We both had experiences of personal lessons and growth during times when physically we were very limited. It became fun to share some of the things that we were learning, and helped to ease the occasional burden. We supported each other, she is such a gift to me.

She understood the purpose of being a mother. Every night she would go to each of her children's bedrooms and lie beside them listening to them talk about their day. That was their time with her. She has an incredible bond with her children. Because, she loved them and listened. She and Eric have a special relationship that is so strong. You can tell they love each other. Her husband Eric is as amazing as she is. That's why they make such a wonderful team. Her mother, Teri became my friend as she would come to serve their family with cheerfulness. I've learned a lot watching this family about how to serve with your heart and turning to the Lord with all your might, mind and strength.

Bri, I am grateful to have you as a friend. You will continue to raise the hands that hang down. Your gifts will continue to be used and magnified. Service will stay as a part of who you are. Now you will be able to continue serving others in a way that is not dependent upon physical boundaries. Your family will be able to continue beyond the grave because of your love with Eric and your sealing within the Temple. The promise of "time and all eternity" will be realized. You will continue to have a role in the lives of your children. There will be times when they are privileged to feel you close. I know this to be true because I have felt my father's hand in my own life, who has been gone for over 20 years now.

So, I will continue to Bri Brave, Bri Strong, and Bri loved. Thank you being beautiful on the outside, but even more importantly on the inside. Thank you for your fight, love and friendship.
"I thank you for your faith and devotion to the gospel, for the love and care you show to one another, and for the service you provide." (quoted from Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in April, 2011)

Spring Break

2011-05-02T15:57:00.000-07:00

This past week was our spring break. I love having the kids around and going on adventures. This year, we kept it mellow and didn't go out of town. Instead we took advantage of the beautiful weather and stayed local.

We hung out at the beach, I wanted to get some spring color and got a small sunburn. The kids played in the cold waves and found sand crabs and dug a new irrigation system with plastic shovels. It was so nice to have the company of several friends and their kids hanging out with us. I love being at the beach, the sun, the snacks and the peace. It helps that the kids love it as much as I do.

Scott had a few days off, so he instigated the "mountain bike ride to the beach". The trip was beautiful, fun, and harder than I remember. Be careful when someone tries to pull you into riding a trip that is mostly downhill. You'll be navigating speed control with a hand on the break, 12 crossings of streams (some deeper than others), and even might mysteriously hit a patch of poison oak...like I did. But, I'd recommend you go. It's a fun family event and watching my kids do more than I thought they could really made me proud. Sperry's got more guts than I did at seven and the boys are getting skilled with their riding. It was so much fun...9 miles of fun.

We met friends at the park, the kids played a little tennis, and went swimming. And we watched a lot of movies at home. Nice and easy, that's how we like things. Now that I've gotten a taste of summer, it will be hard to get back into the swing of things and wait 6 more weeks for the vacation to begin. Oh, summer...how we look forward to you.

10 can you believe it?

2011-04-21T08:31:00.000-07:00

Carter kid has had a birthday and is now 10 years old.

I can't believe it and I'm so proud of him. He's one of the happy and friendliest kids who is great at reading. He's read several thousand pages of books this year and continues to learn a video game like it's a priority. (which to him, it is).

For some reason it's a little hard for me to let go of all the organized games and theme parties. I realized he just wanted to have a fun time with 10 of his friends. So we had the trampoline, pogo stick, wii, a movie and basketball going. And I kept up with providing the snacks for these hungry boys. Instead of a cake, he wanted an ice cream sundae bar complete with strawberries, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream that squirts from a can. (mental note: you had to stop the squirts directly to the mouth). The party was so much fun, I wondered why I don't do this every year. At this age, I guess they don't need the themes so much and the cake that takes you over 3 hours to decorate. (unless you like doing that stuff of course).

He chose to have his birthday dinner at soup plantation because he loves it there. I had made a good old fashioned mom cake. You know the types of cakes your mom put together that didn't look all fancy, but did the job? I made a 9x13 and decided it looked like a Wii controller. With a few strokes of icing and copying a controller with the buttons, it was complete with a message at the bottom of the cake, "Wii love Carter". That made him very happy.

I love this sweet and caring boy. I know I'm getting mushy...but a very happy birthday to you Carter. We love you so much and are very happy you are a part of our family.

Carter's mad dash

2011-04-10T08:43:00.000-07:00

Carter made the front page of our city's local paper, the Acorn.

He is the in middle (4th in from each side) with red shorts on.

Last Saturday Carter had been training with his track team from his Elementary. His was to run the 67 meters race in the city's "Jr. Olympics" where all the teams from all the elementary schools of our city compete in different events. Carter did a wonderful job and stayed in pack during the mad dash to the finish. He got to run on the high school track, have a stadium of parents cheering, and of course his highlight...visit the snack bar.

He was calm and collected. He did not get nervous...instead he was funny as he joked just before the race with the officiator. How did I get kids that manage stress much better than I do? Carter, we are so proud of you! Welcome to your chicken bowl and skittles after your mad dash. You earned that trip to the snack bar, for sure!! Great work trying something new, practicing, running a mile at least once a week in training. You did great!

Funny story: I was at church and a friend asked me if Carter was on the front page of the newspaper (that I must admit just ends up in the recycle bin at my house a lot). I told her no, that must be someone else. But, since she mentioned, I dug through my recycle bin. Luckily it wasn't far from the top, and whalla there he was. Just goes to show that going to church can really help you with responsibilities as a mother. AND, that others are watching out for your family. Thanks Tammi!!

Joseph Smith Prophet of the Restoration

2011-04-09T23:18:00.000-07:00

People around the world now have a new way to learn about Joseph Smith, the founder and first president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A film called Joseph Smith: The Prophet of the Restoration is now available online, marking the first time the Church has shared a full-length film on the Internet.

This movie clip depicts accurately events surrounding the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ being restored on this earth. Joseph Smith is the first Prophet and President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Our church is also known to others as "mormons" because of our "book of mormon" which we deem as sacred scripture along with the Bible.

Reporter Ruins Bubble World Record Attempt.

2011-04-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

Any you thought you had a bad day...watch this.
You know I'm gullible, accident or not...it's hard not to laugh (and then feel a little guilty for laughing after).
Scott thinks it was staged...I guess we know who is not so gullible. Is it obvious to everyone else but me??

Gullible Me

2011-04-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

Last week, at the beginning of April I read an article that shocked me in our local newspaper for our city. Our town has a cute smiley face mowed in the grass on the side of the hill as you enter the city. In the paper, an article appeared that said a group was taking to court the owner of the smiley face hill.
"A collection of activists is fighting to have the smile on Simi Valley’s iconic Happy Face Hill turned upside-down, saying the figure is misleading and potentially harmful to the public.
The group, which calls itself Bummer League Against Happiness (BLAH), has approached the property owner demanding that the symbolic face at the city’s eastern entrance be turned into a frown.
“What’s everybody got to be so happy about?” said the group’s unofficial leader, Ed Stickindamud. “Unemployment is sky high. Can’t afford gas, can’t afford food. There are wars, natural disasters, famine, you name it. We think the message the hill is sending is one of ignorance. Ignorance is bliss. Is that what the people of Simi Valley want representing their city? Ignorance?”
Last week, an attorney representing BLAH presented a lawsuit in court alleging that the smile that greets thousands of drivers entering Simi Valley each day amounts to “false advertising.”
“This image is blatantly optimistic, and we think it’s wrong,” said attorney Doug Downer. “For years, that silly face has given people a reason to smile and forget their problems—does that sound safe? What if everyone just forgot their problems? What kind of world would we be living in?”

I thought this action was ridiculous and was a little bugged by it. I called Scott and kept saying, "can you believe this??". I mentioned it to my kids and how it was important to be optimistic and happy. I guess I made it into kind of a big deal. Later that day, Jacob read the full article. The last sentence said it was an April Fools Joke. Jacob (and I did too) thought it was sooo funny that I would fall hard for that joke. I didn't even catch that the man's name was "stick in da mud". He told me that this story has to be on our annual Sargent Sayings. Because he doesn't like that the sayings are all what my kids have said.

So, spread some optimistic smiles today! I always knew I was terribly gullible, and now my kids know it too. I had to laugh at myself with this one.

I'm stuck...

2011-03-30T09:49:00.000-07:00

I'm in need of some ideas.
Carter's birthday is coming up and I need some party ideas for a 10 yrs old.
Is a bike able to be a party theme?
I like to have it at my house with games and fun. We've done wii parties with in-n-out hamburger, obstacles courses (always my go to move), and I'm worried the movie/pizza thing wont work for this crowd. I'm looking for fun game and food ideas.

If you have never commented here (and I can't say I blame you), please post an idea.
Like I said, I'm stuck and I've got just a few weeks to figure something out.
Oh, maybe I could bring back the firetruck birthday parties...please help me be cool to 10 years old boys.

print your blog

2011-03-30T09:33:00.000-07:00

Blog2print is an online service that is an easy way to keep your blog as a hard bound book. Full color, nice cover, and you get to edit or add more pages that are customized and saved as .jpg.
I wanted to pass the site along. The prices are reasonable, and best of all, the blog pages are collected automatically. Just fill your blog address in the spot and they will do most of the work for you. After you type in the address, give the computer about 10 minutes to pull in your blog. You will be able to preview your "pages" the way they will be printed. You are able to select a cover, dedication, replace pictures for the cover/back cover pages. One tip, think of clicking "edit" on the table of contents and click "remove" each page costs money.

Just think, actually proof that can be pulled from a family bookshelf to prove that yes, your family was seen smiling during those camping vacations. It will make us look like all of this posting was truly was for historical purposes. We will look put together and polished. I've got to mention that one book I published for a friend, was very easy. She received it a week earlier that the company had projected. One downside: my blog has had a few errors that the company is working on. Hopefully I'm the only one who will be a guinea pig for "computer science" and that yours will be easy and quick. good luck!!

Swirling around

2011-03-29T09:55:00.000-07:00

So many big life moments have been swirling around and I haven't even caught it all in. Here's a few things that have been happening lately to my fabulous kids. Yes, you heard me, I think my kids are fabulous they make me laugh hard, reason a little too well, and they remember what I promise to do. As a parent, you always hope that they will do a little better than you did. They do well in school (hopefully don't goof off in class like I did). They enjoy sports (which I enjoyed, but wasn't good at them). They are avid readers (and I have rekindled my love for elementary grade chapter books...oooh with pictures). They are good workers (and I test them every Saturday with their bathroom cleaning skills.) They love to play together (even when it is not mandatory.) They camp, they are learning music, and already are better at remembering things than I am. They love it when we tuck them in at night. Every night before I go to bed I go back in their rooms, cover them again with the blanket and give them a "sneak kiss". I've been doing this for years, and it's become a part of my last act for them of the day.

I love this age, I have always wanted to have kids. Even on the hard days, I remind myself that this is what I was waiting and wanting for years and years. Now, we are not perfect, but we are happy.
I'll need to add pictures later...see I said that I wasn't perfect. Visualize things people!!

Jacob, or "sport shorts" is now a Tenderfoot in Boy Scouts. He has been working hard at the overnight campouts and lucky for me, Scott helps with the Scout stuff. He will be going to the Camporee next weekend with Scott and get's to enjoy all the skits he can sit through. (Personally, scout skits are lost on me, but I guess I'm not the demographic they are trying to reach). Jacob is so funny and has a great sense of humor. And he can whip out the Star wars theme on the piano multiple times during his "practice sessions". Just to see if I'm listening. On sports fields, I always told him he had "crazy legs" because of the power he's got in those things to really move. If he is missing during the day, I know he's gotten a new book and I'll find him reading in his room. He likes the heavy books that weight down a backpack.

Carter just got his Bear in scouts. He even built a birdhouse that stayed together during the rain storms last week. He is going to be Merryweather Clark in the 4th grade play. This week he will compete in the Jr Olympics and run on the High School track. He's running the 200 meters and I'm so excited to see him in his t-shirt and sport shorts with a smile. This kid isn't afraid to try new things. His nickname for years on the sports fields has been "magic feet" because he can get things done. He has finished the Harry Potter series this year. Hmmm when was the last time I picked a book over 600 pages... Now if I can somehow velcro his lunchbox to his hand. That alone could save me $40.00 in school supplies. This kid has a unique sense of humor and a gift for stating the less obvious in a crafty comical way.

Sperry is a soccer player. She loves playing sports and keeps a soccer ball in her room to practice a few kicks before bedtime (Scott found out what the thumping was). I nicknamed her "feet of fire" because she moves so quickly on the field. She and I enjoyed going to her school for a Spa day. Second SPA day in my life, but I liked it. This girl loves music and likes to secretly play some of her brother's piano music. She is currently into Judy Moody books and likes to read to me. She loves her stretch pants and teaches me that they are called leggings. She is the artist that can find something to do with every piece of cardboard or bead or fabric that I am throwing away. I promise we will get your shelf up in your room before you are awarded your soccer trophy.

Scott...well he helps me to navigate through it all. I don't want to embarrass him, but he is a rock'n dad and husband. He just did some light remodeling to a bathroom in our house which makes me fall in love all over again with him. Just think of the accolades when he puts in the new kitchen faucet!! Thanks for all you do and who you are. Sperry as a baby called him "big guy". I love that nickname.

As for me, well I'm the boring one. I get to do laundry and have become "errand girl". But, whenever I need to be reminded of how much I am loved, I break out the ice cream after dinner and enjoy the cheering. It's not bribery people, it's a creamy way to show them love.

Get your "ha ha" for the day

2011-03-17T08:23:00.000-07:00

We are installing vinyl wood plank flooring in our guest bathroom. The company who makes the flooring, "Allure" has one of the funniest how to guides I've ever seen. Ok, to be honest, Scott found this by reading the instructions. I'm more of a jump in head first and consult a guide when I get stuck (which usually happens within the first 10 minutes).
Here's a few of my favorite direct quotes from the install guide:

"Allure planks can be frozen without damage.You can put allure in the freezer, I don't know why you would, but be our guest. Allure can take the heat and definitley stay in the kitchen- but if you let your home get over 95* F for an extended period of time, you will damage the floor and melt the adhesive-- if you let your house stay over 95*F for an extended period of time, all your furniture might melt! That's just too darn hot."
about waterproof product: "We just don't care if there is moisture of any kind present. Go ahead and install allure before the roof is on your house in a monsoon. You will be miserable but your pantented GripStrip will be happy!
"We know that not everyone is perfect and we all have a "whoops" now and again. Allure is forgiving (and non-judgmental)...If the rest of the world was as forgiving and "open" ( an in open time) as allure, there would definitely be world peace."
"Are you getting the idea that this product was created by people who love their job? Well the answer is Yes We DO. Thank you for buying allure, and be sure to share your "Light Bulb Goes On" moment when you first realized how easy it's going to be to complete the installation"

I guess I had gotten used to the way marketing now works. Our instruction manuals come without personalities, surprises, or any comedic relief. Now we can enjoy our day and notice all the "light bulb goes on" moments. Oh, and please wish us luck with our home improvement projects. (actually Scott is the installer, I'm the designer/supervisor/tool hander).

dream bucks- I likey

2011-03-04T20:23:00.000-08:00

I would love a kitchen remodel. It wont be this year, or the next. I'd like to use some dream bucks please. Here's what is going through my mind (not my wallet) at least for now.

Martha Stewart's latest collection leads to some nice clean kitchen designs. Love the mono color with splashes of stainless. Cream and grey with a mix of warm woods and a hit of color like a soft yellow or brown. Cream countertops, wood floor and table, and the soft grey cabinets. Note to self: start working on that sweet husband now...it will double your dream bucks. Here's the link to the Martha Stewart kitchen site. It's ok to use all your dream bucks. Here's a link to "Home Tours"...for those dreamers.

Coldplay - Christmas Lights

2011-02-28T09:52:00.000-08:00

10 minutes of the white stuff

2011-02-28T09:09:00.000-08:00

It actually happened. I had laughed at the news for making such a big deal about snowfall in our area. You'd think it was as big some of the hollywood stuff people love out here. But, Saturday it happened and my kids were so excited. Small hail sized snow came down at my house for about 10 minutes. You could hear my kids screaming, "It's snowing...it's snowing!!" I heard echos of other neighborhood children with a similar chat of delight. We have had hail before, but I don't really remember it snowing.

Jacob's first Scout overnight

2011-02-28T08:52:00.000-08:00

Jacob is 11 and the troop and troop leader of his 11-year old scout pack. He's the only member of the pack his age group and he is able to enjoy the overnight camping trips if Scott goes with him (which gives this mama a little piece of mind that he will be looked after).

So, during his first overnight there were many memorable surprises mixed with memories of fun I had to share. They drove a few hours away to the local "mountains" and during the Winter Camp the reminded that they should expect snowfall. Jacob and his friend Bryce were sleeping in a two man tent and during the night, the tent collapsed due to all the snow on the roof. As they realized they were trapped, they tried to escape via the front entrance. The zipper was frozen closed and wouldn't budge. Scott thought that they were laughing and joking around when he heard laughter and shouts. He was in a tent close by, but didn't realize that they needed help. Finally the boys were able to break free and headed to the kitchen area to get warm.

Ska...the revival

2011-02-16T11:16:00.000-08:00

Oh yes we did!! Scott and I celebrated Valentines Day with a Ska band that I went to 20 years ago. Must admit that we were able to skank with the few that knew about it. The band was known by several names: General Public, English Beat, the Specials...all good. Who cares that we were actually one of the younger members of the crowd. Who cares that I kept hitting into the chair that was taking up some of my dance space. Who cares that Scott didn't realize why moving up towards the stage was important. It was so fun and I danced myself right into a cold. But, you guessed it...who cares.

Save it for later, Tenderness, Full Stop...yep, I'm with ya. So fun. Thanks to my husband for coming with me and enjoying it. I've got to look into our next date concert, yes I'm on a revival mission. Anyone else want to come to some "reunion concerts".

I love you Scott...thanks for agreeing to a blind date when we met. You always make me feel so comfortable being myself (even when I am a little crazy at concerts). I love you for that and for who you are. All the things you do for our family is just a bonus.

A little everyday

2011-01-27T10:23:00.000-08:00

I'm working hard here on my new plan for building strength, energy and endurance.
A little everyday...that's my new motto for 2011. It's actually pretty easy, and I don't call it exercise. I just call it a little something. Today, I've gotta brag a little. I went out on the bike and tackled a big fear of mine. Carter, Sperry and I rode our bikes to the school this morning. Usually Scott will do this for us but as I said earlier, "a little everyday". So, I decided to tackle this fear, bike locks and all.

It was going great, Carter zoomed ahead of us and we didn't see him much on the ride (mental note to adjust our plan to wait for us at the busy street so we can cross together and mom won't silently freak out inside). Sperry and I rode together and had a great time. That is until we got to the bike racks, saw Carter's bike and realized he has all the bike locks in his backpack. Ohhh, keep calm, remember you are tackling a fear and this is one of the things you were afraid of...putting together those darn locks on the bikes. So, I sent Sperry down to find him on the playground while I watched from on top of the hill by the bikes. Sperry delivered the message, but by that time, Carter heard the "line up" bell and decided to be on time for school.

That left me with no locks, having to walk down bike shorts and all (not my favorite outfits to be seen in) clicking down the stairs in my shoes. "A little everyday" repeated in my mind as I remember to keep the stress "little". When I met up with Carter, he told me that he didn't have the bike locks. So, dug into his backpack and whalla...the illusive locks. I locked up the bikes and was off. But I had one more little fear to conquer. I knew if I rode a little further, I would have another mile under my belt for the morning and have gone up the "steep hill" by our house. That hill has been something I've been afraid to tackle on my bike...I thought it would be too hard. Scott encouraged me yesterday when he told me that anything you can walk up, you can ride up. He told me just to take my time and lower the gears and crank up the hill. Now, to the normal eye, they wouldn't see a big scary hill. But I have a trained eye, keenly aware of hills that might be too macho for my wimpy body.

I decided to tackle the hill. I ratcheted down a few gears and kept reminding myself that if I keep the pedals going, the bike will hoist itself up the big hill. And I made it! I did a victory lap (a short one cause my wimpy arms were sore and I didn't bring any water). So I challenge you to do "a little everyday". What are you trying to make happen, what goals seem too big, what fear can be broken into bite size pieces? Strive for a little everyday and your big hill will boost you into trying again tomorrow. Gotta give my wimpy arms a rest, they might not have enough strength to do dishes today :)

Quick before the snow melts

2011-01-18T16:23:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday Scott took the kids skiing at our Mt. Baldy resort. Carter tried snowboarding for the first time and really cut it up! Sperry continued to ski and find time to build a snowman. Jacob continues to shred up the slopes on his skis. Fun time had by all...but notice how the snow is melting around them. It will be a short season this year if we continue to have 78* weather. They all came home with big smiles on their sunburned cheeks. To see the pictures bigger, just click on the picture and it will enlarge.

Jacob in red, Carter in stripes

Carter shows his snowboard style

Sperry "snowplower" on the right

Jacob on left, Carter on right

Sperry and the little California snowman

Whew, officially updated blog

2011-01-15T10:15:00.000-08:00

Keep scrolling down and you can learn of our many parties and adventures since Halloween. No wonder why I am so tired, just trying to keep up.

Before you embark on some reading and pictures...I wanted to share this beautiful video clip by Ryan Woodward and set to one of my fav songs by the Weepies. (a super great band might I add) It helps to remind not to loose sight of the big picture during all of our "daily do's". Thanks to Scott who introduced this clip to me and helped me to find a place while the world spins madly on.

Watch it on full screen and... As my mother would say, "In Joy".

Thought of You from Ryan J Woodward on Vimeo.

Super at Seven...our Sperry

2011-01-15T10:06:00.000-08:00

The dream brunch invite

The gal pals

trampoline games

Super star styling station with Lindsey

What could be better than for a 7 year old girl to have a Barbie Dream brunch? The girls were invited to come in pj's bring their favorite barbie and dine in fanciness with strawberry crepes topped with whipped cream. After brunch, the girls had a little karaoke and could take their Barbie to the "Barbie Super Star styling station" where Lindsey created the latest hairstyles for Barbies hair. There were so many things going on...you just had to step back and watch the blur of pink with black accents whiz by...Barbie would have been proud! Recently we have started a tradition where the birthday person get's to pick what they want to serve to celebrate: instead of cake, Sperry wanted doughnuts. Of course the boys were happy to have something that they loved too. Thanks to my kitchen helpers Dave and Scott for making the batter and cooking.

Happy birthday Sperry. Thanks for being the best daughter in the whole wide world of people and Barbies. You are so fun, friendly and lovable. Happy Seven, Sperry!!

karaoke with Carter

Giant Birthday card made by your family

opening with Carter

Sperry as Star Student in her class

opening presents with Jacob

gifts galore

pink frosted with sprinkles doughnuts as birthday cake

Super reader...50 pts whoa!!

Hosting pre-NYE

2011-01-15T09:32:00.000-08:00

Sperry and I in our colossal Confetti fight

Kids and Confetti =crazy

Brock's first NYE in America

Kristi & Bri

the Cyclist: Gary, Scott and Eric

the beach combers: Marci and Bri

Corine & Bri

Our pre-NYE party is a great time to ring in the new year with family and friends. 2011 started off with our PRE party bash! We start at 7 and our kid friendly countdown is at 8:30pm with confetti going everywhere and of course the special fizzing apple cider. There was a lot of craziness going on between kids of all ages and parents catching up with each other. The new foozeball table got a work out and the kids even took the party outside on the trampoline. I love this party, you can play and still go to bed whenever you want. If you are looking for something to do that involves the whole family, try a pre NYE party. It might be the perfect way to celebrate.

It was so wonderful to see Bri and Eric. We miss them so much since their move to Sacramento, but seeing them helped to make the year a little brighter. Thanks guys for making the effort to come, it was so inspiring to see you and be able to catch up. You are missed!! Keep blessing the lives of others through your amazing fight with cancer. Your family are an example of strength and faith during adversity. Your family reflects the brilliant light of our Savior...giving calm and peace during the storms of life. We love you!!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

Making Santa Shakes with the Elders Christmas Eve

Our humble band

Foozeball tag read, "from Santa, the big man"

Sperry's desk from Santa

Santa gave us foozeball (and hours of fun)

Rocking out, Barbie Style

Serious game going on here...

Raise your hand if you are a happy girl!!

Christmas Eve and Day were lots of fun here this year. Everyone got something cool and the foozeball table made it easy to stay in our PJ's all day and just play as a family. Eat, play, and watch movies...that's how we spent our holiday vacation. I've got to explain our Christmas Eve tradition, years ago we thought that by the time Santa came to the West Coast he was sick of milk and cookies. So, we started Santa Shakes... you get to mix it up how you want (Eggnog is now included in the choices). We try to remember to leave a little for Santa. Scott changes the time every year that the kids are able to come out of their rooms. I'm fine with early and going back to bed, but Scott set the 6:00 am rule. The kids were very good about it, and I still got to return to my bed for a early nap. I'll tell you...it was party central.

outdoor fun

2011-01-15T08:44:00.000-08:00

Jacob as QB during flag football season

Sperry at the schools playground

family mountain bike rides


Carter on his Scout made can stilts (that work)

This Fall season we have seen so much rainfall for our area. Record breaking rain levels with storms including hail and lightning which is very rare for us. But when the storms are over, the fun goes back to being out of doors during the "cold season" for the rest of the country. Here's a few picts to entice you out for a visit.

Hallllloween 2010

2011-01-15T08:33:00.000-08:00

Carter as Mario

Sperry as Dorothy in Wizard of Oz

Halloween was celebrated with a big party at our church. It's called a Trunk & Treat because candy and treats are served from the back of the car trunks in the parking lot. Not to sound old or anything, but remember the days when you would throw on a homemade outfit and leave with an empty pillowcase? Well, the same can hold true to my kids...except the miles of walking and knocking. They just have to walk from one car to another and smile. After all those years of walking from house to house, I've got it pretty good too...they can go get as much candy as I did in a quarter of the time. Sperry was so cute in her Dorothy costume and Carter was Mario (of course from a wii game). Jacob put an attachment from our vacuum in his backpack and said he was from Ghost busters. I'm going to encourage this costume for all my kids: cheap, fast, and funny. Scott and I put on orange vests and were construction workers. I guess I'm still a grab and go costume designer at heart (minus the pillow case, because I get a cut from my kids earnings).

Thanksgiving and Scott's 40th

2011-01-15T08:01:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was a lot of fun having Scott's mom, the Missionaries and our great neighbors, the Suitts over. Scott once again won "top chef" at our house cooking the Turkey in the smoker with a fresh herbs rub and we also have tri tip which is a local favorite. The kids made jello and the rest was just a buffet of yummy food galore. No wonder people love Thanksgiving...I've been carrying around my "thanks for great food" through the rest of the holidays.

Thanksgiving at our house

A few days after Thanksgiving, we celebrated Scott's 40th birthday bash. Since I've had experience with this turning 40 thing last year, I decided that we needed to really treat Scott to some of his favorites. So, he and Wayne went to the velodrome to learn how to ride on a fixed speed bike without brakes on a oval track with steep sides on it. Leave it to Scott to want to include something about cycling for his celebration. He loved it and came home talking about visiting there again. I think I'll stay in the stadium seating and be a spectator. After his riding class, we had a group of friends over for Red's BBQ and an ice cream sundae bar. Scott, hope you feel loved during your adventurous day!! Thanks for being my best friend and a wonderful husband and father. You bless our lives daily.

Sargent Sayings 2010

2010-11-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

Sharing some Holiday Cheer with some of the things said in our house this year...

Jacob, age 11

2010-11-30T07:00:00.001-08:00

Samples of Jacob's vocabulary sheet from school. He had to make his own definitions.

1-Concede: "Albert Einstein's rule: never concede and people will think you are smart."

2-Submissive: "Monks should be submissive, if not...run!"

3-Artisan: "Sign flippers are not called artisans."

4-Topography: "Use topography, you must (quote from Yoda)"

5-Scale: "Scales try to make us work out more."

6-Pride: "I give myself pride for doing this. The things I find pride in you would not."

7-Jubilant: "I am so jubilant about writing these sentences!"

During the middle school magazine drive I came into Jacob and Carter's room to tuck them into bed. Jacob said, "Wait! I'm trying to find a magazine for Carter." Carter says, "Jacob, I don't have any money and I'm not buying a magazine subscription from you, it's TOO expensive!" Gotta give Jacob credit for exploring all his options though. "Mom, don't you want another magazine subscription? It supports your son's school?"

More about the magazine drive: "they say to sell them to your friends. The problem is most of my friends are selling magazines!" After asking repeatedly for a left over hamburger. I said that we are no longer going to talk about the hamburger. Then Jacob said, "Mom, can I have that meat product that is between two sponge buns? I'd like the meat product between the two sponge buns…" "Mom, please give us some ice cream. You'll be the best mom in the world if you give us ice cream". (I agree to give one scoop). "WHAT one scoop?? You won't be the best mom until you give us two scoops. Then you'll be the greatest mom of all time". "Mom, we can't talk about that here. We have to go into the living room to talk about it. I asked him what he was trying to do that he needed to be in the living room. He replied, "to stall for more time." Another Jacob time saving tip: "You don't have to do you hair at all, tah dah! Then you'll have more time to get ready for school!"

Carter, age 9 1/2

2010-11-30T06:55:00.000-08:00

"Will we keep our dog Fawna her whole life, then we will already have a dog in heaven" Today we played at recess, "get off my lawn". When I asked how you play this he said, "It's like tag, only when you are caught the person who is the old man yells, 'get off my lawn'. Conversation between Jacob and Carter. Jacob: "Mom, when we draw names for Christmas so early? Last year he found the gift I bought early for him." Carter said, "Then don't write about the gift in your journal Jacob." Jacob: "Why are you reading my journal?" Carter: "So many sweet things are written." Carter asked me one day, "Mom, are we poor?" I asked him why and he replied, "Then why am I so skinny!" (Well, because you don't eat the dinner if you don't like it.) "Dad, I don't mind if you would like to see my comics that I made." "I need to have something to lighten my mood. Only the Wii can do that". After a hard day learning how to inline skate, with several falls, Carter said, "March 14th is hurt day for me". While reading one of Carter's library books I gave one of the characters a German accent. Carter loved it and kept saying, "Dad, do the Sacramento voice again." (Gov. Schwarzenegger) Carter shared one of his invention ideas with me, "I would have a shrink ray, and make my mother small enough to fit into a jar. Then, I would put her in a jar and have earplugs".

Sperry, age 6 1/2

2010-11-30T06:45:00.000-08:00

"I have started a new club. It is called the LOVE CLUB and I will be the President since I love love." With that, she chases her brothers trying to recruit members. "I lifted up Fawna's front legs (our dog) and was trying to tickle her. Why isn't she laughing…and why don't dogs have lips?" "My blanket was in the drying machine, Dad". (Otherwise known as the dryer.) I suggested she try a cartwheel as fast as she could. Sperry replied, "you mean at maximum speed?" Sperry, teasing Jacob "I think that deodorant is good. I'm a fan of deodorant. Jacob, you can use Ranch Dressing to use as deodorant. I'm going to put a sticker over the label and have it say deodorant." "If I had a piece of paper, I could write the number of people who are on the earth. Then I could write the number of the people in heaven. When you are young, you know these things." Followed up by the next day "I know how many cars there are in the whole world. I'm young and know these things. When you are old, you do not." In church today Sperry asked Scott how to spell the word g-i-v-e. Next thing we know, before the service began, Sperry took the message back to Brother Chickering (one of her candy suppliers). The note read, "give me candy". She returned with a handful and a big smile. When Sperry was working on her 1st grade math homework, you were to draw a simple addition sentence and draw circles showing the amounts. Sperry wrote: 47 + 72=121 I asked her how she got the number and she said, "I started on 47 and counted on my fingers up to 72." I told her she could keep the numbers under 10 and she said, "Mom, it's my homework, I can make it hard if I want to". She was sitting by a calculator and I found out it helped her with her next sentence. The sentence was 14 x 32...

Scott & Marci (age of "parents")

2010-11-29T11:00:00.000-08:00

This year, we share the song,

"There was starlight on the Hillside"

by Mabel Jones Gabbott.

"There was starlight on the hillside, And one star bent very low

Till it passed above a stable On that night so long ago.

There were shepherds on the hillside, and on that night in Bethlehem.

Heavenly hosts appeared proclaiming Joyous tidings unto them.

There was Jesus in the manger, born that night in Bethlehem.

And the shepherds left the hillside, and they came to worship him."

We are grateful for our Savior, Jesus Christ.

He taught that

God is our Father in Heaven,

how to teach and being teachable,

how to serve and be served,

and to become who we truly are.

May we live as true believers of Jesus Christ

and share year round the spirit of

Christmas.

Thank FULL

2010-11-25T08:57:00.000-08:00

This year I have been very Thank FULL. There's just no better way to say it. Thank FULL for warm family ties and caring friends. For being rich with life. I hope we see each day not just what is on our "plate" to do, but also see the things that need not be done.

Happy Thanksgiving. With love, Marci

cleaning...the musical

2010-11-19T09:26:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving...it can be a lot of work to celebrate gratitude.
Before I list what I am grateful for this year, I thought I'd give you a little taste into my "preparations".
I'mmma big music person love love LOOOOVE all music (except rap). So I created, "clean the house...the musical".

Here's a few musical selections to clean your house, stuff your turkey, play tag with the kids, dance with your husband, just make you smile. It's your pre-thanksgiving soundtrack. Below is a music video clip from a very fun Danish band, Alphabeat to get you started.
Happy cooking, cleaning, playing and of course loving every minute of it.

join the movement

2010-11-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

Hope.
I love this time of year that brings hope and warmth to so many people.
I wanted to encourage you to join the movement of sharing hope with others.

Here is your training video...

Now OPEN

2010-11-01T14:02:00.000-07:00

Help is on the way...

click to view card cart website

My Holiday photo card shop is now open...cardcart.

All original designed cards & envelopes are 7.5" x 6" size, that need no additional postage. Click on a sample to launch the cardcart website to see all your card choices.

Any card can be made into a blog header for just $5.00

Hope you enjoy!

www.cardcart.blogspot.com

Mmmm thanksgiving tips

2010-10-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

I'm posting this for my hubby. He is the pie maker of our family.
Lion House is a historical house located in the heart of Salt Lake City. They are world famous for their baking and here are some secrets that even I didn't know about pie crusts.
Clip one: lion house rolls secret
Clip two: pie crusts.

Jump to it

2010-10-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

Jacob had a very fun birthday over the weekend. At Eleven years of age, you gotta have a "stick". So, what he asked for surprised me a little, he wanted a pogo stick. After a few weeks of research and consulting my cousin Keri who is queen on the pogo, that's what we got him. It was the perfect gift for him (and his siblings, and his friends). For me, it's too hard, too scary, and too advanced. But, I loved the fact that they were making new "records" with the consecutive jumps. Jacob has reached over 900 jumps and I think Carter is over 800. Not too bad for a gift received two days ago.

In between jumping, Jacob played flag football, had a birthday party complete with deluxe obstacle courses, and spent some time with friends. He didn't want a birthday cake, he wanted to celebrate with cinnamon rolls (so that's what we did). We rounded the day out with an at home movie night and eating left over pizza. Jacob also received some of the other things he had wanted from the Grammies...a BYU shirt (from grammie Sue) and Charlie & Chocolate Factory movie with Gene Wilder along with a family sized box of velveeta shells (from grammie Karen). Thanks Grammies for always helping us feel special and loved.

So, Mr. Eleven thanks for being you. You are so funny and clever, smart, athletic, handsome and kind.
We love you Jacob!
Here's some picts of Mr. Eleven:

the VC in LA

2010-10-11T20:24:00.000-07:00

We went to the "VC" also known as the Visitors Center of the LDS Temple in Los Angeles last week. It is so beautiful and the kids didn't want to leave. It was an easy, free and uplifting way to spend a Saturday evening together as a family. This place is strongly recommended to everyone. It is open everyday from 9am to 9pm and everyone is welcome to visit. To find it is easy, find the only peaceful area in Santa Monica.
10777 Santa Monica Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90025-4718. This visitors center is of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is located off the 405 Santa Monica exit. Only members can go into the temple, but the visitors center explains why we believe the temple is so important. It is all about family and being sealed together as a family even after this life. In the basement of this building is one of the largest genealogy libraries for researching your family history (for free).

Here's some pictures: There is a "neighborhood" room where the kids (and I did too) draw pictures on a touch computer screen. These drawings can be e-mailed home or on a display screen in the room for all to see. Also, an area that shows personal impact of humanitarian efforts from the LDS church worldwide. These personal stories are very touching. Sometimes I take even clean drinking water for granted. There are so many other rooms where you can learn of the Savior, Jesus Christ. My favorite place was the Christus statue featured in the front of the visitors center. Just looking at this statue, you can feel the love of the Lord.

Now that's what I like

2010-10-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

Now, this is a couch I can keep. We went to the Van Nuys Hotel Surplus warehouse. They sell new and refurbished table, couch, headboards, bedroom sets. This is where we got our kitchen table and chairs that you can see in the background. My favorite quote that they greet you with at the warehouse is, "Let us know if we can help you with the price." I love that you can work with them on the price. And, yes...yes I did offer them less. It's a charcoal grey/blue microfiber soft couch. It goes nicely with my leaf chairs on the left in the picture. Nothing like a little upgrade to lift the spirits.

Music Matters

2010-10-11T19:50:00.000-07:00

There is a Music Matters campaign. I liked this ad and the reminder to always purchase music legally.
Music Matters - Fron Choir (23-3-10) from Music Matters on Vimeo.

And, for those Kate Bush fans...

Music Matters - Kate Bush (23-3-10) from Music Matters on Vimeo.

You sing it Carrie

2010-10-09T07:34:00.000-07:00

Last week was so much fun, I had to share the story. Some friends were not able to attend the sold out Carrie Underwood concert at the Hollywood bowl. Joyce and Bob were so nice and knew we would love to go in their honor. We were joined by 3 other friends: the Roberts, Basil's and Stevens and laughed the entire night. I learned you can bring a fancy plastic glasses and a tablecloth for picnics on the grass (in the middle of 50 of your closest fellow fans). I learned that it's hard to get Dave in a picture. I learned Jeri is always prepared for anything: coat, jacket, flashlight, flairs, breadcrumbs to find her way. I learned that it's always nice to laugh and laugh during a great adventure. And, I learned that while friends are fighting an ugly cancer, they will want to do something nice for you. It was one of the best concerts I've ever been to. Carrie sang her little heart out and I loved it! The weather was perfect, the company was perfect, and now...I'm a big fan of this girl.

Bob & Joyce, Thank you for giving us the opportunity to: sing, shout, laugh and applaud all in your honor.

the $55.00 lesson

2010-10-09T07:10:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the thought of being impulsive can bring some excitement. Sometimes being impulsive on small purchases can lead to regrets. AND sometimes buying big things off craigslist on an impulse can lead to the $55 dolllar lesson. So, if you are thinking of working on the flow of your house...beware.

With the kids getting bigger, I realized it was time to move where the TV was, again. My house plan didn't account for kids and their friends getting bigger, more active, and hungrier. So as I was deciding how to re-arrange the house a little, I decided it was time to get a couch that could work in a "sitting room". You know the room that adults go to sit and chat and eat little finger sized snack cakes while the children run wild. The room that brings a little solace into a possible crazy visit. A room that my sister in law and I were trying to find last week on a visit for a day.

In my quest to find a couch, and giving up to impulsive side... I found and agreed to purchase with a delivery a couch that was $30.00. Yes sight unseen. (this is where I put the disclaimer into those who might be considering the same thing, don't do this). When the couch got here from Hollywood, I was not in the "excellent" condition that was described on the internet. I should have known. The $25 delivery fee could have taken it back, but I didn't want to load it back into the truck. A problem was brought on...how to get rid of this newly acquired couch (without legs). Finally I was able to post it for FREE and 4 days latter, it left my garage. (I didn't want it in my house) on the back of truck headed to another adventure.

Buyer beware...I can still hear Scott laughing at my lesson. I'm sure if it was $100 lesson, he wouldn't be laughing as much. Here's Jacob in his "price is right" pose.

U-in ... well are U ??

2010-09-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

Are U-in?? Ok, I think only my husband knows THIS secret of mine, but as I saw this picture today I had to share this. I am a trucker girl at heart. I've got a secret obsession with old, restored trucks. I don't know why: it might be nostalgic, it might be a desire to turn our focus to good old fashioned values, or it might be the appreciation of something that is still running after all these years.

Growing up, we had an old truck that held our "piggyback" camper. I loved the days of when it was our little getaway, just for us kids. We would play cards, hang out in the hammock and take snacks to devour. We only took it camping a few times, but in my opinion it paid for itself when it was on our yard. I've always thought they looked cool and loved the new paint jobs that brought new life into these old cars. Lovingly restored with white walls and all. This is a note of encouragement...my wish for you is to
"keep on truckin". Going forward on the difficult days, appreciating those little moments that will soon age, appreciating things restored. Now you are in the "trucker" club, welcome.

Here's an inspirational clip from Kevin Pearce who rivaled Shaun White in Winter X games. He is on the road to recovery and was just released from the hospital. Kevin, "keep on truckin". (my new slogan is taken from this... u-in).
Then...

Now...

Sumz it up

2010-09-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

I went to Carter's classroom and found the best description of Carter I've ever seen. Well, of course he wrote it, who else would be the expert... but I was amazed at how well the boy understands who he is and what makes him tick. He's older now that the "baby at beach" picture, but it's so darn cute pict of him, I had to include it. Gotta share his self analysis, that Sumz him all up:

"Carter

Athletic, wild, happy, kind.

Son of Marci and Scott.

Lover of pets and going out to eat.

Who feels excited and energetic.

Who finds happiness in Legoland.

Who needs to eat and sleep.

Who gives food to some people.

Who fears wasps and bees.

Who would like to see Mt Rushmore.

Who enjoys playing outside.

Who likes to wear short sleeve shirts."

Carter, keep on being true to yourself and you'll serve many people...even wearing short sleeve shirts.
We will go out to eat today, doesn't that make you happy!!!

Getting better

2010-09-11T00:34:00.000-07:00

I guess I should have warned my kids that as I continue to build my strength, their lives might change.
In my view it changes for the better...but they might say that their workload has increased.
I'm getting my energy back and some strength returning, very grateful to our Loving Father in Heaven who hears and answers prayers. His timing isn't always immediate, but things work for the better as we learn during the tough times. I could write on and on about the blessings and miracles I've seen recently. It leaves me with a very grateful heart.

So, kids...get ready, your mommy is getting better. And yes, the house might be getting a little cleaner and more put together. But, this means we can also do things together (outside, after our work is done). I love being on the "come back" after my long sabbatical. I think I finally understand how to better balance the most important, letting some of the unimportant slip away. Now, those are big girl words. Well, I am almost 41 you know~

a Little Nostalgic

2010-08-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

Tonight the kids were asking me, "What did I like when I was little?" And, "What did I like to do". It's amazing how quickly they forget and how slow I am to remember. So, when I was giving them the "bedtime ready" call, I found them looking through their memory boxes, reminiscing. Carter told me that he didn't remember his race track birthday party for his First birthday. Sperry loved looking at the paintings from preschool (keep in mind she just started 1st grade). And Jacob commented on how dusty things were getting on their trophy/keepsake shelves like the plastic Sponge bob figurines...they don't all have to be trophies.

I grew up with the idea of memory boxes. My mom wallpapered apple boxes and we were to keep our school, hobbies, and keepsakes there. There were many times growing up that I would look at my 3rd grade art project of an owl from a carpet remnant, or my new ballet toe shoes, or old journals. Scott just picked up a few more things of his memory box the last trip to Utah (thanks for keeping all that Sue). Now, my kids carry on the memory tradition with long plastic boxes beneath a bed (that has a nice wheels on them, I wasn't about to wallpaper apple boxes). They open up the lid a few times a year and marvel at the things they loved doing.

The queen of keepsakes is Sperry. She was blessed in my blessing dress that is hers to pass along to her children. They boys have their blessing "jammies", that hang in their closets to be passed down (or just looked at). The other day Sperry asked me to show her my wedding dress and also the white dress I wear when I attend the Temple. "Mom, when you die, can I have your wedding dress and Temple dress?" Surprised by the request, I said, "Don't be too anxious to receive them, but yes...they are yours if you want them". She's also asked for all my rings and jewelry when her fingers are big enough. As I look in my jewelry box, I see the special ring I got at 14 and my pearl ring from my 16th birthday. Then I see rings that once belonged to my mother, another from grandmother. Some may thing my rings aren't that great, but to me and my daughter...they are crown jewels.

Face in Space

2010-08-26T08:38:00.000-07:00

You have a ticket to ride!
NASA will let your "face" ride for free on one of the next 2 missions to space.

Click here to link to NASA and upload your jpg photograph. The launch for the STS-133 is November 1, 2010 and the last mission for the Space Shuttle is scheduled in Feb 2011.

You are set for "go"...

Isn't it Grand

2010-08-18T20:03:00.000-07:00

Showers and getting clean are nice, but sometimes it's okay to be a little grungy. We just got back from 4 nights of tent camping at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. (listen for my Oooohs, ahhhhs). It was so wonderful. Not only did we take the BIG "MASH" tent that was originally made 35 years ago and still going strong, but we had fantastic views in panorama. I loved finding my kids hanging in the tent playing UNO card games or just sitting around talking. The first night, we had some pyrotechnical difficulties, but every night after that, we were able to sit around enjoying some deluxe Dutch Oven (thanks to my hubby who is the master cook). At night, we could sit on the lodge patio and look over the wonder of the changing colors with the sunset. There was of course a beautiful spread at the buffet in the lodge, but we opted to cook up meals ourselves. Sausage spaghetti, pancakes and eggs, tri tip with potatoes/onions and carrots to name a few.

Every day was a new hiking adventure, and I was able to hike a mile and not feel putzed out! Gotta love having energy and strength, it's gonna be the turn of a new leaf! Sperry was so cute, she loved being outdoors and once again was quite the hiker. She was also well hydrated and Scott got a glimpse of what being a nursing mother is all about, Sperry loved to get water from the tube, no matter who was wearing the "hydration backpack". Which is totally a stupid name...someone please come up with something better. Then there were the boys. They hiked and loved the sites, I'm amazed that they did so well (don't ask, they will deny to enjoy hiking). There were a few funny moments, Sperry got accidentally locked into a phone booth, they were curious to see what a phone booth was and how it worked. We forgot that the doors fold in, not out...keep that in mind when kids are curious. Once again the camping stove proved to be a great purchase, we cooked on it every night! Below, you'll see pictures of the "beefalo" which is what you get when you cross a buffalo with beefs or cattle.And then there's Uncle Jim's trail you can hike and in the lodge is a bronze statue of Brighty, his burro.We rubbed his nose for good luck. At the campgrounds, look what was within 2 minutes of our tent. Beautiful!

On the way outside the Park, we stopped at Jacob's Lake Inn. Monsterous pancakes were served and Scott and I were very happy not to be cooking or cleaning! It was a quaint little area with cabins and a restaurant with the area staffed by college students from Utah.

One of the highlights was Pipe Springs. It is located outside of the Grand Canyon, and before the Utah boarder. It was originally built in the Piute Indian territory by the Mormons and used as a "Tithing storehouse". It was incredible to see. The site is now owned by the US Park Service in conjunction with the Kaibab Indians. There were demonstrations of the Indian way of life and they even inspired me to grow a veggie producing garden. It was over 100 degrees there and they had crops...I'll have to take that on next year. The gates to the house were created big so that wagons could pull into the courtyard. All of the stone was quarried in the area and the building housed both families and visitors. See the pictures of the ranch house, the storehouse is the 2 story building with the creek running through the kitchen area. Years ago, the creek moved about 50 gallons of water every 5 minutes. Pretty impressive. You'll also see a picture of a pump organ that is over 100 years old. The ranger, Sheryl, let the kids play it a little to get a feel for the pedals. Thank you piano lessons for paying off in a life experience! Jacob decided not to play "star wars" for his number on the organ. Also in the kitchen there was the vat of cheese and butter making. They had 80 cows to milk every night and morning. While the St George Temple was being built, the family who lived here at the time made a 4 day round trip to provide butter and cheese for those working on building the temple. We ended up spending a few hours there and the kids became certified Jr Rangers. Feel free to quiz them on the details...

On the trip home, we broke up the 10 hour drive and stayed in St George at a hotel. We visited the St George Temple grounds and after that the kids just wanted to go swimming and catch up on some TV.

It was a great trip, and now...we are ready to start school next week. Eeek, did I mention Jacob will be entering middle school. (to be continued...)

Sun & Fun

2010-08-09T12:52:00.000-07:00

We have had a whirlwind summer so far...

We were able to go to Utah and see all the cousins and Grandma's. That's always a big highlight to our kids who wish we lived there. Here's some snapshots with some info on what's been happening!!

-Fishing in Gooseberry...one of my favorite places to be. It's so quiet, calm and peaceful. Living in So. Cal you begin to wonder if there are any spots that left quiet anymore. We were able to fish (thanks to Quinn who caught all the fish we ate). We had so much fun thanks to Kris & Wade and the 4 wheelers! Aaron, thanks for helping to find a new route to Gooseberry. Now we know that Price is in the wrong direction.
-BBQ in American Fork Canyon. Another one of my favorite spots. Thanks Grammie Sue for always helping us to do the things we love to do! We forgot the spatula, so thanks to some creative eagle scouts (Scott & Brian) we flipped burgers with an old school, rustic wooden spatula (or flat piece of wood). We loved seeing all of our cousins and appreciated Amy, John, Laurel and their clans for driving down to meet us.
-Swimming days are so much better now that all of the kids are pool safe. No more having to monitor their every move in the pool. Now, I can sit and relax...fruit of my labor of driving and all the hours of swim lessons. Quinn, please don't dive where the no diving sign is...we would like to keep you around! Dre's kids were laughing and having a great time. Tatum, thanks for helping Sperry learn about a curling iron, I think she might be ready!
-Salt Lake City: yes, I still love you! We went to see the stars in the Planetarium and have dinner with kids that had run out of steam by the end of the day. It was so cool to see the 2 story thing-a-ma-bob that illustrated cause and effect through steel balls rolling through obstacles. (not the technical name or explanation). That "Chasey Meatball" is a trooper. We love that baby boy. And of course Sperry is in heaven playing with all the girl toys and cousins.
-Puppet show Theater: our kids even got some culture at Kris & Whitney's puppet show. They brought all the supplies, made the impressive theater and whalla...the kids were having a wonderful time for hours. Even when my puppet was getting her curls knocked out of her, behind the curtains I was smiling at the memories being created. Gavin, nice idea with the "cars" slipper becoming a car for the sock puppet!
-Sunday I ran into one of my dear friends, Laura Bunker. She's still so much fun and I love her personality! I could have chatted with her for hours. It was nice to meet her kids again, they've grown so much...and of course see her hubby Dave too. I wish I got a picture, but not even Laura who is a photographer, brings a camera with them to church.
-Another thing the kids got to do was to Hike Timpanogos and go through the cave. I sat this one out, but Scott being on the ball, took kids and photos. I was so happy they got to see this. The pizza party was so fun as well.
-More cousin time with BBQ's and playing in the backyards it's no wonder we love our families and are so happy to come up and spend time every year with them.

Picture Story:

I'm a...

2010-07-21T13:36:00.000-07:00

Click HERE to see my profile about being a Mormon. The site is mormon.org
Recently this site offered members of the Mormon church to say things as they saw it.
This site is built for people who ask, "What is it like to be a Mormon?" So, I made a post that is listed on their site that is among many others who have written about themselves in their own words.
Because you are special, I'll give you a little sneak peek into what I wrote.

Hi, I'm Marci With 3 energetic kids and a rocket scientist husband, I love music, storytelling and the beach as my outlet.

About Me

When you have 3 kids all under the age of 10, you've got things to keep you laughing everyday.* My kids are my alarm clock in the morning, my dinner-bell at night, and keep me hopping through the day...WHEW. They teach me to enjoy the "little things" in life, which make me happy. My husband and I love attending concerts, museums, hanging with family and friends, and living on the west coast of America with diverse foods to eat. He's a rocket scientist and I'm a communications grad, so together we are a great match. We are a hiking, cycling, camping, boogie boards at the beach, crazy crew. *AND, I wouldn't have it any other way.

There's a lot more info about me personally on the site. As you visit, you can add your own words about being a Mormon, or if you have always wondered what it is like to be a Mormon...then, this site is for you!!
The site is mormon.org and my link is found HERE. (or, just search for "Marci" on the search on the right side). Good luck!!

"meet" Mr Swim

2010-07-11T21:08:00.000-07:00

This is the story of "Mr Swim" aka Jacob.
Last year I told Jacob that he had passed all the swim courses and so he didn't have to take another swim class. I noticed there was a swim team that he could participate in and tried for a few weeks to talk him into it. He was NOT interested and reminded me that he had passed the swim classes.

After watching the swim team practice while he was at the pool for Carter & Sperry's lessons, he told me that he would like to try it. They have him swimming laps for 45 minutes...and he said that it was FUN. I am so happy and he is doing great! During the meets, they have to dive from the starters block (or whatever you call it for swimming). He's trying a lot of new things this year, and enjoying it. HOOORAY.

And, they swam happily ever after...the end.

Jacob is doing the breaststroke during a race... see that determination through his goggles!!

Summer...finally

2010-07-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

Anniversary, check!!

2010-07-09T17:23:00.000-07:00

Why am I smiling...
Because Sunday will be our 12th wedding anniversary.
It all started with a blind date and continues on in adventures with 3 children.

This year we are going to see the sites at Forest Lawn in Glendale. I know, it sounds weird we are going to a cemetery to celebrate our wedding anniversary. But they have museums there with incredible works of art. So, since we can't top our Hawaii trip in 2008, we figure Glendale will be close enough. They have many exact replicas that are only featured in Italy like the Last Supper, featured in Stained Glass. So, it's like going somewhere, without going somewhere.

Getting to know you

2010-06-20T22:10:00.000-07:00

Writing in a journal can be fun & relaxing. Naw, for me it's more accurate to say, "a good habit to have...a hard one to form". I've been trying to write/type in my journal. It's getting a little easier, but I found something that helps to jump start my thoughts.

There is a site that is being built where you can see answers from real people (like myself) to some of life's toughest questions: "What is life after death", "Why did Jesus Christ have to die for us", "How do you draw close to God". These questions and answers will be soon found at a website being renovated: mormon.org If you would like to see more, or if you are a Mormon and would like to share how you find peace and answers to life's difficult questions... just click here: mormon.org and you will find a little uplift for the day.

Check back later in the summer and I will provide a link to what I shared on that new site. For now, scroll down and you will get a little sneak peek on a few questions I shared experiences about. While reading, go ahead and sing, "getting to know you". I'm a Mormon and have approved this message :)

Sifting can build Strength

2010-06-20T21:58:00.000-07:00

President Thomas S. Monson once said, "I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by."

Difficulties help us to sift quickly the things of greatest worth. I have been struggling with health issues and chronic pain for the past...about 7 years. For several years, we were desperate to find a diagnosis and I had no strength, no energy, and was in intense pain. My children were so young and it was difficult to be in bed most of the day. I could only get out of bed to do the most absolute necessary. One year, my strength had left my body and while I was in my 30's I looked like I was ready to dye my hair white and live in a housecoat. Everything was exhausting, I didn't have strength to drive, fix a meal, or even leave my house except for Dr appts. Even sitting for more than 15 minutes was a great accomplishment. I had a severe tremor in my hand and difficulty finding words. I lost the ability of a few small motor skills like having legible handwriting. During the most difficult stage, friends and family would take my children in shifts and bring in meals.

After a few years of searching, we found that I had Fibromyalgia and was trying to get the pain and dysfunction to become manageable. As friends would ask me how I was holding up, I had to share with them that I have been learning of God at an accelerated rate. My weakness had brought a greater faith in God, an even greater closeness within my family, a need to prioritize. Even now, working through this trial, I have seen the blessings and miracles that have come through faith in the Lord. Through our weakness, we can be made strong. As we try to come closer to the Lord, we will be able to witness how he blesses our lives. Before these difficulties, I felt like I had endless energy. I was getting a lot done each day, but now I look back...were those things it the most important? Now, because my energy and strength are limited, I evaluate my priorities daily: will this bring us closer as a family, will this help me draw closer to God, is this a priority? My strength continues to improve, my tremor only comes to visit when I am exhausted, and maybe my handwriting wasn't that great to begin with. Even though many of abilities that were temporarily lost have been restored... I realize now that my faith has gotten stronger through my trial of weakness.

One of the "Why"

2010-06-20T21:56:00.000-07:00

There are so many reasons to answer the question "why I am a Mormon". The one that comes to mind is my experience that happened within the year prior to my father dying. My mom and dad, both drew others to their company through warmth and a sense of humor. The strong bond between them only grew deeper as their trials continued and they found peace through the Savior. When my father was 45, he began having heart attacks and at 48 he suffered a massive stroke. He was in a coma for a little while and as he returned consciousness, we found that life for him (and us) would be very much altered. I saw my Mom find strength by growing closer to God and through the service of others. I'm sure it wasn't easy for her to navigate care for my father and having to find full time work after being out of the workforce for years to be a full time mom.
Dad was blessed by the prayers of others and continued to fight through his recovery with always a contagiously positive attitude. It was difficult for me to watch at times his struggle and many times would bring tears to my eyes. But his love for the Savior seemed to deepen as I would talk with him about God and I learned that trials can make you draw closer to God. The stroke took many things away from my father that people take for granted. Once, a very eloquent speaker was now left with a vocabulary of three words: "Yah", "But", and "two two two". Through months of rehabilitation he had to learn again how to walk, feed himself and operate with a non-responsive right side of his body.

The weekend before his death, Dad and I went on a little road trip. During the drive, I felt strongly to turn off the radio and talk with my Dad. So, off went the radio and I used the next minutes to learn from my Dad. I asked him if he knew there was a God. I already knew the answer to this question, but I wanted him to have an opportunity to teach me about what he had learned during this trial. His voice became animated and with all the expression he could muster came "two, two two". Even though the words were limited, I could fill in what he was trying to say. With each question, a strong feeling confirmed to me that life after death as taught by the Mormon church were true. Within a few minutes, tears were streaming down both of our faces and we both knew that God had helped us communicate that day. The message was very powerful and I am so grateful for those precious minutes with my Dad.

Many times I have felt confirmation that there is a loving God. Following my Father's death, I felt a strong confirmation that families can be together forever. That means I will see my Dad again and be able to hear in his own words declaration that God lives, that he hears and answers prayers, and that he will always be my Dad.

Sperry's sacrifice

2010-06-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

Our 6 yrs old daughter will find out tomorrow if her hair is long enough to donate. I mentioned to her several months ago that Auntie Kris, my sister, has cancer and is now bald. We talked about what bald meant and I told her that some girls with long hair can give their hair to a company to help make wigs.

Recently Sperry surprised me, she wanted to donate her hair to help make a wig for someone. This is from a little girl who has always wanted long hair. She has learn how to style her own hair, many times having it look nicer than if I had done it that day. She can put it in ponytails, part it, and headbands. Everything but braids. And now, she wants to see if it is long enough to donate it.

That is very touching to me. Sometimes we need to give something of ourselves to give a little light to someone else. Sperry's sacrifice to her is something she is excited about. Giving with a happy heart, once again I am taught by someone in my house under the age of 11 years old. Auntie Kris, this story is for you, we love you.

Our resident, "Big Guy"

2010-06-19T21:30:00.000-07:00

A special Father's Day tribute to our resident, "big guy". This title was given by Sperry our youngest when she was even younger. The title still fits and it sticks. Not only is their father (my hubby) a big guy in stature, but he is also a big guy in heart and soul.

Here's a few things that helps one achieve "big guy" status:
-Enjoying life, as it comes. Where would I be without someone quietly keeping me balanced. "It's not that big of a deal" is whispered as one of our kids is doing something. In my mind I am already 20 steps ahead of the action thinking of what injury might result from this. But, as the whisper comes, I realize... it's not that big of a deal. (I repeat this several times, to help me believe it).
-Living life as an example of strength and stamina. When it seems that I am running low on both strength & stamina, super dad comes in and saves the day. In a single bound, helps to save this stay at home mom from times of distress or potential burn out.
-Darn good cook, and I don't mean the kind that microwaves his meals. He is a true Dutch Oven wonder. Go ahead, check our fridge for the sourdough start.
-Always patient, warm and sincere. Our kids are drawn to him...I know this will come in handy in the "tween" years.
-Honest heart, if you don't know what this means, you don't know someone who is.
-Can take a joke, make a joke, and laughs easily.
And he's smart enough to be a rocket scientist... what...he's smart, handsome, matches his clothes with ease & has a sense of humor?? Are you sure he's an Engineer?
We love this big guy! Happy Father's Day, Scott.

It's true, donate without cashoola

2010-06-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Charity.aspx

It's true, I saw it with my own eyes. (Of course I linked it for you to the site telling the details) Here's your chance to donate, without any money. Mention on your blog hotelscombined.com and they will send your charity $20.00

Click on the hotels combined logo, or picture below to see how you can get money donated, it's easy!!

HotelsCombined.com is the world’s leading hotel price comparison engine used by over 80 million people every year. We help consumers to find the best hotel rates by searching all the best travel sites at once.

I recommend HotelsCombined.com and sent $20 to Avon walk: finding a cancer cure!

You can shout and help too.

One Happy Customer

2010-06-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

Thank you Craig, whoever you are, for helping us to find wonderful deals without looking hard.
We have been shoppers of Craigslist for a few years now and have been very happy with the results and many of the new people we have met in the process.

This summer's finds: wrought iron patio table set, and "new to you" bikes for the kids. $100 not too bad for a girls Specialized mountain bike with a shock and flowers on the frame. We just tell our kids that they can get better bikes gently used, then we teach them how to lube the chain and whalla, they are ready to ride. They get to earn $$ for 1/2 the cost and the mom & dad match fund will "match" what they earn to put towards it.

Here's the craigslist website. Don't let the view get you nervous, just start typing in the "search" box on the left side. We have seen both sides of Craigslist: buyer and seller. Deal in cash, only with those you feel good about. Then go ahead and do a little spring cleaning, donate most of the items to another family in need and keep a few things to sell and get money to upgrade.

Go ahead, search for yourself and see if there's a deal in your area. I've gotten a bedroom set, kids bed frames, computer monitor, the wii, and many other things that have saved big money. I bet Santa's elves have a special department to search things out on the web for a deal. Things don't have to be expensive or junkie and you don't have to be a shoppie (which I'm not) to find deals.

I'll have to post a picture of Sperry girl and her bike soon.
~Signed, One Happy Customer!

A Place of Peace

2010-06-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

The Mormon Temples are designed to be a place of peace. After construction, and before a building is "dedicated" it is open to the public to see the inside. Once it is dedicated, only LDS members who are in good standing can go inside, because it is so special and sacred. If you have ever wondered what it is like inside, here's your opportunity.

Now, there are special scaled 1:32 models being displayed that show the inside of the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. It will be in the South Visitors Center on Temple Square. CLICK Here to see pictures of the model and for additional information.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Temple is a place where families can be sealed together forever. I am grateful for that gift and to have a place that has been set apart from the world. A refuge, a place of peace. Even on the Temple grounds, you can feel that sweet feeling that makes it, a special place.

The pictures are from the article in "Mormon Times" a newspaper covering this event. Click HERE for article.

PINK to Think...

2010-05-15T09:58:00.000-07:00

Warning, I'm getting weepie writing this post.
Cancer...I learning of so many people fighting cancer. I've turned PINK to support the fight.
To my family and friends who are getting treatments: You "CAN" beat the CANcer... I'm cheering for all of you! And, I'm praying for you to have strength, hope and little day miracles that help us to go one more day. Forge on through the difficult days.

I love each of you...you know who you are. And I
It is worth the fight. Don't loose hope, don't give up, don't give in. You are loved.

(click pause on the music player before viewing the clip)
Here's an inspiring video posted on the Pink Ribbon Website: kris, so proud of you and the wonder jugs walking to find a cure!