One Day at a Time

Why I Care

2009-11-18T09:46:00.000-08:00

Michael had his basketball tryouts this week and I will admit, I was a nervous wreck. I then sat and wondered why I really care so much. Am I trying to live through my children? I mean, this is his schooling, his sports team ... I don't remember my parents really getting too involved in all of that with me. If I wanted to tryout for something, I did. If I made it, I made it and if I didn't, I didn't and I don't think they were too phased by any of it. I think the reason is all of these moves. You only get to grow up once. I passionately want Michael (and the rest of my children) to believe that he has the same opportunities he would have if we were permanently located. It is very difficult to come into a new location and "prove" your abilities in a short period of time. You have no history with anyone ... so if you have a bad tryout and really do play much better, they have no history to say, oh, I know this kid and I've seen him play before. You have to lay it all out on the line and that is all they have to go on. Things don't come easily for Michael and he has to work harder than about anyone I know. Even at things that should be natural, like social skills and friends. He never quits, and that is what makes me so proud and why I care so much. They had a really great group of boys tryout. There were very few who did not have the skills to play ... so what do you do as a coach and how do you pick? I am not sure what the criteria was but I am thankful this day that he has been given the opportunity to play. I'm proud of you, Michael ... for being all that you are and I am truly blessed to have you as my son.

Hooray for Washington!

2009-05-14T17:53:00.000-07:00

We just found out there are no mosquitos in Bremerton, WA! What a perk!

Sad Day in Tennessee

2009-05-14T16:38:00.000-07:00

For a long time we knew this was coming, but today it really happened. We traded off our van. I loved that van and truly felt like it was a part of our family. We purchased it in Massachusetts before Jenna was born. It is the van that brought Jenna and Andrew home from the hospital.

Shortly after we purchased it, there were some engine problems and then about two years later, the cylinoids (sp?) had to be replaced in the transmission. It seemed to run well for a while, but then when we moved out the Tennessee, the transmission started jumping once again. We could not figure out if it was actually the transmission or possibly the electrical system, because it seemed as if once the van was shut off, it would reset itself and run well again. After a while of this, when the van shut off, it stopped resetting itself and the jump was pretty constant. We decided after much thought and consultation to do nothing, but to let it run its course. That was 3 1/2 years ago, and after getting us to Utah and North Carolina and back home safely, we named the van "Old Faithful." The power window was broken, the air conditioning died, the belts squealed, the transmission jumped, and often when turning it off, the whole thing would start to convulse -- and I often wondered if it would explode! After going down a ditch this past fall, I scraped the bottom so badly I thought it may have to retire, but it started up with no problems and kept running like a champ.

With our move coming up shortly, we felt like our van had given all it could give, or should be expected to ever give. It was a trooper ... we will miss Old Faithful. We hope our new (well, new to us) van can someday prove itself worthy of these same feelings in our heart. So what did we purchase, you may ask, another Pontaic Montana ... because I did not want a truck but I love my 8 seats, and I did not want to purchase a new Honda or Toyota simply for the fact that I didn't want the payment. I really want to get a BIG house in Washington -- as in the bigger the better! The kids are getting big and we all are feeling the need (especially me) for much more space!
We'll miss you, girl!

Erin's Atoka Idol

2009-04-24T14:30:00.000-07:00

Erin had her Atoka Idol competition today at school, and though she did not win a trophy, we were just proud as punch! I could have watched her over and over again. Yay, Erin! (and if you notice, I did NOT dress her in pink!)

MIGHTY MINDS

2009-03-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

The 3rd grade play, Mighty Minds, was last night and it was in fact very cute. The strangest thing, however, is that it seems like every performance I hear at that school (well okay, the two performances I have seen) their music teacher sings solos. She sang two solos at the choir concert and had about 3 last night. I have never seen anything like this before. She does have a pretty voice, but this is elementary school, and I do not wish to hear her. I would like to hear the children sing, and I don't mean my own. I would like to hear any child sing because their is THEIR performance! I can't figure out if she thinks no one else can do it or if she just likes the sound of her own voice!

Things I HATE

2009-03-27T06:52:00.000-07:00

I think one of the most disgusting things in the world is throwing up -- it is nasty and it stinks. I hate that gagging sound that you know means it is coming. Erin got sick last night and I guess I am not a very good mom because I just don't like any part of it and honestly, I have no desire to sit next to someone who is regurgitating anything. Jonathan is a much better sick person than I. He will hold their heads and say soothing words ... all I can think about is, this is so disgusting and I am going to have to clean up the remnants! I asked Erin last night if she thought she was going to be sick, to which she replied, no, I am fine. Two second later I heard that dreaded gag and I walked (okay ran) into Erin's room and saw her flopping over the side of her top bunk bed spewing all over the carpet - GROSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It takes all I can do to hold my cookies when I witness things along that nature.

Continuation

2009-03-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

When Lindsey came home from school I asked her about the recess and she said nothing was said about it except that her teacher did pull her aside and told her it was fine that she didn't get a pizza and that she certainly was not the only one. I asked her again if she was sure the teacher had told them about extra recess and she said yes, and that everyone was asking about it to each other (hey, I thought we were getting extra recess), but not to the teacher. So I guess it all kind of slipped away. I would have appreciated it more if the teacher had said, you know what, I did say that and now I realize it isn't right and we won't be doing that -- or even stood her ground if she truly believed it was okay. As I told my kids, we all make mistakes and say and do things that we don't always think through. I think it's strange and rather upsetting that she completely denied the entire thing, however.

Extra Recess for Pizza

2009-03-25T06:38:00.000-07:00

Lindsey has a 3rd grade play called "Mighty Minds" on Thursday night right before or after the PTO meeting - I can't really remember how that works as I don't attend PTO meetings. Anyway, they asked all 3rd graders to bring in a 12 pack of drinks so that they can sell pizza and drinks before the play, and if the drinks were donated they would make more money. That was fine, and I understand the school is trying to raise money and I don't know exactly what this money is going for, but I really don't care. I was happy to oblige. Now to truly understand this post, you need to realize this school is brand new and all they do is fundraise. We are asked for money on a daily basis -- they even have to pay to participate in crazy hat day, silly socks, etc. This Friday, they are allowed to bring in games, board games or electronic if they pay $1/each -- it is never ending. On Monday, Lindsey came home with a slip that they were also supposed to buy a pizza for their family at $10/each. Okay, that was fine, too, and I really hadn't thought much about it, if we were going to buy a pizza or not. I hadn't gotten that far and it got put in my pile of papers to look at later. Lindsey got really upset and said her teacher told them that if they bought a pizza and brought their money in by Wednesday (today), they would get 20 minutes of extra recess - but only if they bought a pizza. The reason the teacher cared is because whichever class had the most pizzas purchased would earn a pizza party, and the teacher wanted her class to win. So now I decided it was a matter of principle, and I was not going to buy a pizza because I could not believe they were putting that pressure on children -- especially in today's world ... my goodness, what if we had just lost a job or were supporting other family who was in dire need -- a pizza would be the last thing on our minds! Yet at the same time, I didn't want to get pulled into a therapy session in 20 years and find out all of her life problems stemmed from getting singled out and not allowed to participate in an extra session of recess ... so, I asked her if she would feel badly if she didn't get the recess and she said she didn't care as long as she was not the only one, (understandable) -- so then she said she would use her birthday money that she had been saving to buy it. I was really, really mad ... they can't penalize a child because they don't buy a pizza at PUBLIC SCHOOL! So I asked her if she was sure that is what the teacher said and yes, she was sure. I called my friend Michelle whose son is in Lindsey's class and asked her if that was right, and she did not know but asked her son and he verified what Lindsey had told me. So now, I felt REALLY fired up because I'll be darned if Lindsey was going to sit in a classroom doing work while the rest of her class was at extra recess over a fundraiser pizza. I could not send in a note to the teacher because Lindsey hides notes and never gives them to the appropriate person, so I called the school yesterday afternoon, but her teacher had already gone home. It was the principal who I spoke with. I was very nice, but explained that I was concerned and didn't understand how she could be penalized for not participating in a fund raiser. Her teacher called first thing this morning and denied the entire thing. She said the principal had told her there was a parent complaint and that she could not understand this because she never said such a thing, and that maybe another 3rd grade teacher told them that, but she knew nothing of the sorts and that she absolutely did not say that. I said, oh good, I am so glad because I could not understand how something like this would be allowed. She said, I would NEVER do that to my students. I am trying to give her the benefit of the doubt, but Lindsey absolutely does not lie -- she never has. In addition, she is known for relaying information extremely well and does not get confused often. Well, I guess regardless, Lindsey won't be sitting by herself!

Erin's New Haircut

2009-03-20T16:24:00.001-07:00

Erin got her haircut today and I think it looks really cute! She also got some highlights, just right around her face. What do you think?

WHAT A RUNNER!

2009-03-18T06:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Michael had his first track meet and it was completely different experience. Track meets (at least here in TN) move very slow. It started at 4:00 pm and didn't end until 8:00 pm making for a very long afternoon. There also was no posted schedule so you did not know when any specific events were schedules. However, that being said, Michael did awesome. The very first race of the day was the 2 mile race and Michael truly smoked everyone. He finished 1/2 lap ahead of the next guy. That was really, really fun to watch. Next, he did the mile race and came in 3rd place, and lastly the 1/2 mile race and came in tied for 4th, but I guess he lost the tie and came in 5th. I was just giddy sitting up there in the stands! I have some video clips but I have a new camcorder and haven't tried to get it to my computer yet, so that will have to wait for a little later.

The Beauty of a Working Dryer

2009-03-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

I have been having a dryer dilemma for the past while. It was taking about 3 dryer cycles to get my clothes dry, but this has been going on for probably the past 1 1/2 years and it seemed to keep taking longer and longer. Well you kind of get immune to it after that long of time and stop thinking too much about it ... except for the fact the laundry is never done. If one of the kids wet their bed I wanted to CRY because I knew washing and drying those sheets would be an all day event and it would wipe out any other laundry I should be doing that day. About 2 months ago, all hot air stopped working on the dryer so we (Jonathan in VA, and myself in TN) respectively, started looking at new dryers and both got the same response from appliance salespeople, that the older dryers are better than the newer ones. So I took it upon myself to diagnose the dryer as having a bad heating element. I read up on repairing this problem and decided it was certainly something I could do myself. I had the dryer apart and was feeling pretty good until I had to start disconnecting various wires. The first two didn't seem too bad and I felt rather triumphant but then it looked like there were going to be about 12 in all and they were far back in the unit and I just envisioned the dryer exploding when put back together, so I quit and called the repairman. He came, said it was not the heating element but some fuse thing, fixed it, and said it was good to go. Well, it did get hot but still took 2 cycles+ to dry. This was getting ridiculous so I called the repairman back and said, you guys did NOT in fact fix my dryer and you need to come back. They advised me first to make sure it was not the dryer vent that needed cleaning and so I disconnected the dryer from the vent and sure enough, when running, it seemed to get much hotter than when connected. So I started trying to figure out the maze of my dryer vent since it does not come out the same wall where it originates. After about 3 days of pondering that issue, I called the dryer vent guy and he came over. Three hours later, he told me our vent was now the cleanest one around. Our vent actually goes under our house right above the foundation and around some twisty curves. The final prognosis is that our dryer now dries -- it really dries! One cycle and the clothes are dry -- it is amazing! I am truly giddy about this. I am caught up on my laundy and I just stare at empty clothes hampers in dismay ... how can this be I wonder ... the clothes all washed, dried and put away ... ahhh, this is true bliss!

It's Depressing Me

2009-02-23T19:54:00.000-08:00

I am going to play the piano in sacrament meeting. This is at the insistence of my teacher, Brother Call. My compromise was that I would play prelude music but that was not good enough for him. An intermediate musical number and I really don't think I can do it. I am playing, My Heavenly Father Loves Me ... well an arrangement of that. It is 3 pages and I have to memorize the entire thing and then the harder part is my fingers have to actually play it. Anyway, I have been practicing like crazy and the other day Erin came and said, Mom, that song you've been playing, can you please stop playing it. Erin always gets bad headaches, so I asked if it was her head, and she replied, no, my head is fine -- it's just every time I hear you play that it just makes me feel awful inside. I like the song, I don't know how to explain it but when you play it I feel all sad and depressed. How's that for a confidence builder!

Primary Sub?!!!

2009-02-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

So on Sunday, the new Primary Pres. came up to me and asked if I would sub for the CTR 6 class that day. Can you believe it ... I didn't even have one week, but I said, no, that I would rather not. Why, you may ask. Okay, last week I was officially released, but I was still in Primary the entire time. I had to do the Sharing Time! There was a reason for the release. I just wanted to sit through Relief Society, a meeting with no children, including my own, and do nothing but listen. Second, I didn't really want to sit in someone else's Primary right after being released. It is no longer my domain; and third, I didn't want others to view me as a pathetic lurker ... someone released from their calling who acts like they cannot handle the release! However, I did agree to sub for the next few weeks in Nursery. I really, really, really do not want to do this. Chandra, who was my couselor and is in this presidency as well, asked, and I just couldn't say no to her. I tried to say no, but couldn't. It was the absolute best feeling last Saturday night when I realized I had absolutely NOTHING to do. I had nothing to prepare. I went to bed at 10:00 -- Halleluiah!

I am Tired!

2009-02-23T18:29:00.001-08:00

I painted the kitchen today and half of the bathroom. I also painted the stairwell and a couple of doors. I am so tired. The girls and I sorted out their room, packing up things, throwing things out, donation pile, etc. Yikes! We have accumulated 3 huge bags of junk just in one afternoon. One bag was just what was under Jenna (the hoarder's) bed! Now, I have left to paint only the girls room and our room and the other half of the bathroom ... well, if you don't count the garage. I have to paint that, too, as well as a bunch of doors and trim, but I think that can happen kind of on an ongoing basis. My friend, Mandi, is an awesome decorator and is going to come and help me "stage" the house and get things going that way and Alice is going to help me scrub my kitchen floor like it's never been scrubbed. My deadine is 2 weeks and there is a ways to go, but I think we can do it! The kids are starting to feel like they have a vested interest in helping our home to sell/rent, as I told them if it does not, we will be living in a 2 bedroom shack in Washington! When I mentioned that, they got extremely cooperative! Lindsey stayed home from school today. She said she was sick, but she was not. I think she coughed a couple of times during the night is how she justified the sick, but I can hardly say no to that girl. She is so incredibly fun to have home during the day. I just treasure that time with her, as she is so sweet and helpful and very hard working. So opposite from her moody side that we often see. When we were sorting through things tonight, I felt so sad when she didn't want to keep her Ariel and Jessie toys. I just can't part with them because I will always remember how she would just sit in the bathtub for hours playing The Little Mermaid and her love for Toy Story. I remember the one Christmas when that is all she wanted was a Jessie dolland how hard it was to find one! She has been my one little princess and she is growing up, and it nice but at the same time so sad.

NEWEST MEMBER OF THE TRACK TEAM

2009-02-23T14:38:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of Michael. I think half of Munford Middle School tried out for the track team, but only eighteen kids were selected, and he was one of them. He has really enjoyed the 5K Club that he participated in this year, and it is the same coach. What makes me so very happy is that he says they are really nice kids -- much different from the basketball crowd. Okay, so this is what that coach does. After he makes his team list, he sends a copy to all of the teachers and asks for comments back if there is anyone in jeopardy academically and also if there is any reason for behavioral concerns. He says if anyone doesn't act like a team member, criticizes anyone else on the team or anything else negative, they are gone. I love him, Coach Z. He is such a great guy. I hope Michael has a great season!

After 2 1/2 years ...

2009-02-17T06:02:00.000-08:00

I've been released!!! I feel so light, so relieved! I have loved my calling as Primary President, from the very day I was called. However, with Jonathan being gone, it has been a struggle and I have often felt like a whirlwind -- just too much going on. I don't really feel a bittersweet reaction, I just feel happy. I am going up today to the church to clean out my "stuff" and the new president asked if I would go to their first meeting, as she has never even served in the Primary before (talk about overwhelming!), but I have declined. I don't mind meeting with her prior to the meeting, but honestly, I have no desire to sit in on their meeting, and especially the first as they establish their presidency. What I noticed that was very interesting to me is that I have known and loved those children for years. I speak with them each Sunday and almost every Wednesday, yet I was released on Sunday but still did Sharing Time and I found myself having to think of their names -- and almost got stuck a couple of time as crazy as that sounds. I guess the mantle of my calling had been lifted.

So what can I do now? Paint, paint, paint. I also have so much to do and lots of organizing, sorting through things, etc. It's amazing how much you accumulate in just a couple of years. And as I look at the walls and ways we have destroyed our home, I realize a lot of it comes from Jonathan! The kids aren't really that hard on things, but he has certainly caused damage! He really is still like a big kid!

Grateful for Blogging

2009-01-29T06:42:00.000-08:00

As I was driving Michael to school this morning, we were talking about snow days and making up school when it goes beyond the designated number of snow days built into the system. Anyway, I was trying to remember what happened my senior year of high school because we had so much snow that year and they were not going to let us graduate, yet the place we always graduated in was not available at any later dates. I know the story, but was somewhat sketchy on the details and find my memory can often fail me. For the year or so I have written on here, as I look back I read things I completely would have forgotten ... so I am grateful.

Erin got her first training bra this week and that was a very big deal for her. She giggled and laughed the whole time while putting it on. Oh, the joys of youth.

Michael is off today for his all west band. I can't believe it has been an entire year since he was there last year. We feel much better equipped this time around. One of the things that was strange last year is that there were 3 people in his room and only 2 double beds. I shared beds with people all the time when young and on school trips, etc. but today is just different. The thought of my son getting into a double bed with some boy I don't even know is not a thought that would leave me untroubled. So I called the hotel and they said if there are 2 beds in the room they will not give them a cot, so I sent Michael with his camping cot. I told him to sleep there 1 night and tell the other kid he had to sleep there one night. Last year he had 3 kids in his room also, and one of them said, I'm sleeping on the chair because I'm not sharing a bed with either of you. Poor kid did sleep on a chair for 2 nights. What do you think? Is that being neurotic to send your child with a camping cot ... how do you feel about your child sharing small beds with others these days?

My mom and dad are coming out today and Jonathan's parents are coming at the end of February. I think they all know I'm kind of at the end of my rope! Primary has been a huge struggle for me lately as in I'm just ready to be released, and I don't really understand why I have not been because right now I am a single parent with five NEEDY children (can I stress needy enough?!!!). Obviously, it will be sometime soon since we will only be here for a few more months, but it takes so much time and I just don't have it right now. In addition, I need to start painting our rooms and getting things ready to either rent or sell our house and I really just need a break!

That's it for today, just my random thoughts.

Story of Adoption

2009-01-26T19:40:00.000-08:00

My Bishop's wife sent this youtube link. This is their daughter and her story of putting her baby up for adoption after she had him at age 17. I think it is absolutely beautiful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGCxBmoAIAE

Utah Jazz Game

2009-01-16T11:17:00.000-08:00

Michael's Scout Leader, Bro. Tom Combs, works for some company in Memphis and the owners of the company are part owners of the Memphis Grizzlies. They have a box seat section/suite that they own and the workers have access to. Their scout troup was supposed to go camping tonight in the 20 degree weather, so he gave them the option of backpacking/camping overnight and freezing their tails off or going to the Jazz/Grizzlies game in luxury. Hmmm ... kind of a no brainer. So that's where he will be tonight. The last time the Jazz came to town, a super nice guy in our church took Michael to the game, knowing he would have gone with Jonathan if he had been home, so I have to say Michael has been well taken care of and will not miss any local Jazz games this season.

Pizza Hut Cinnamon Sticks

2009-01-16T11:09:00.000-08:00

The kids and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Pizza Hut cinnamon sticks but they are quite expensive just to have as a snack, so I found this recipe online about a year ago and it has become one of our favorites. I do the pizza crust bread machine recipe (see link on right side of recipe) and in the bread machine, it takes about 2 hours to get it ready, but then they are super fast to make after that. You just roll them out, put on melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar mix, and kind of make the cut indentation marks without cutting, let raise 15 minutes and bake. I have them in right now and love to have these ready once in a while when they come home from school. If you like cinnamon sticks or cinnamon rolls, you should give these a try because they are much faster and less messy to make than cinnamon rolls and most importantly, they are really good! (we do not use the frosting, but you may like it).

http://www.recipezaar.com/Cinnamon-Pizza-Sticks-With-Dipping-Glaze-167598

Erin's Dance

2008-12-08T06:43:00.001-08:00

The dance was on Friday and was not well put together. The kids had fun for the first 45 minutes or so and then it quickly went downhill. My job was to guard a door and not let anyone out so they could better monitor the kids, which allowed me to just kid watch and it was amusing. There were no slow dances and no couples, so that part was good. The kids were really uncomfortable with the whole thing, you could just tell and after 1 1/2 hours, we left.

Erin did look cute, though. Here is a picture.

My Favorite Gadget

2008-12-01T12:47:00.000-08:00

I am a gadget lover. Jonathan always says if I lived in the days of traveling salesmen, I would be their favorite stop and I can be a sucker for trying those things. Most of them are a disappointment, but this has been my favorite purchase of the year.

The Bissell Steam Mop from Amazon.com for only $65 ... what a deal! I love, love, love this thing! This thing only uses water to clean and I now enjoy mopping my floors and that is saying something. I have a very large kitchen floor, all tile, and it was a nightmare in my opinion until I got this. It is also great for hardwood floors. It looks so clean and I have noticed the dirt does not stick to the tile the way it used to and sweeps up much easier. Now the next thing I need is a dog to eat all the scraps away and then maybe, finally, it will stay looking clean!

Who says Kids don't remember?

2008-12-01T12:13:00.000-08:00

I found this on my bed this morning where Lindsey had emptied the contents of her backpack and I thought it was very sweet.

You may want to enlarge it Briana ... hint, hint!

A realization

2008-12-01T05:43:00.000-08:00

I have had an eye opening experience on children. If you have well behaved children without lots of issues, regular discipline works very effectively. You can do time outs, behavior charts, reward incentives, etc. Michael never needed those things, just always behaved, but it works fantastic for Erin and for Andrew for the most part. However, if you have children with issues regular discipline does nothing. It doesn't even matter to them. They are so strung out that it's like they cannot even understand what is happening. It is really like their brain is just stuck ... crying, misbehaving, raging, hitting, etc and you cannot reason with them. They also do not have the ability to feel remorse until it is all over. I don't know how much good counseling does when they are in that mode. I say this because we have been though years of counseling, first with Michael and then with Lindsey, Jenna, and still Michael. Michael is easy for counseling because he does not want to feel anxiety/ocd thoughts and so he is very motivated to take whatever they have to say and implement it. Lindsey, however, had no vested interest in the counseling. She did not care how she was making others feel, I think because her feelings/actions were too complex for her to understand and I also don't believe she had the maturity required. I say this all because now that Lindsey's moods are controlled, she does not require discipline but if she did, she has the ability to feel badly for what she has done. She also is in a "normal" state of mind where charts,incentives, etc are appealing to her and I believe would work. It is very easy to look at others and judge -- they should do that with their child, etc. and I know there are things that Jonathan and I have totally failed on, but when you have children that are constantly crying, screaming, raging, whining, etc. and the regular discipline does not work, you get very, very tired. I told our bishop last night that we only started scripture study again because our children truly could not be in the same room together. Now that would be easy to look and judge again from someone else's perspective, no you have to do family scripture reading, your family will be blessed, but when you have the kids to yourself and no spouse to help and they are about killing each other, it put my stress level up to unhealthy leavels. At times, they are misbehaving because you have not done what you need to do but you just don't want to do it anymore. You just want to have a well behaved child. And most of the time, you have done all the right things, but the end situation is no better. I'm not talking about a kid whining for candy in the grocery store or having an occasional tantrum or misbehavior, I am talking about the constant issues -- they wear on you and make you feel defeated. You get tired of constantly being on guard and waiting for the next problem. When we went bowling something happened with Lindsey and I said, you know we don't do that and so you need to stop and she said, okay and stopped and that was it. What, I thought, where is the screaming, crying, raging, hand flapping,etc. Not there ... oh my goodness, I felt like it was way too easy.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T05:13:00.000-08:00

We had a nice, quiet Thanksgiving this year. The bottom line is, we didn't want to invite anyone or go anywhere. We just wanted Jonathan to ourselves. He was exhausted after driving home until around 1:00 am Thursday morning and we had a relaxing day. The kids got to jump all over him and play crazy. It was awesome. On Friday we went bowling. Now for most of you, this is not a big thing but to have all of our kids and to have them all have fun, behaving, no tantrums, no running around, no getting mad because someone scored higher and just to laugh and have fun was a humongous treat. Jenna said she things she found a new hidden talent - that yes, with the bumpers in, she beat us all! I made my first apple pies this year because I do hate pie, but they turned out very good. My tastes are slightly changing and I can see a little bit why people like pie now and am thinking I may even eat some next year.
On Saturday, Michael and Jonathan played a church football game and we went and cheered them on. As usual, we went and picked up a young man but only one because I wouldn't allow for more than that because I wanted us to all go together and not have to drive two vehicles. It amazed me that even with Jonathan home for just a few days, we had people calling and asking if we would get their kids when there was no reason their own parents could not take them. They know Jonathan is just home for a few days and yet they still wanted him to drive all around the county and pick people up (not leaders, parents). That was amazing to me how inconsiderate they thought to be of our time together. I'm not brewing about it, just kind of amazed!

Jenna does not seem to be so well improved anymore. I don't know what happened, but she is kind of back to herself. Jenna's medicine was not tailored for her - just a general one they sell. Lindsey's was put together specifically for her symptoms and she continues to behave beautifully. She was so fun - laughing, joking, happy and NOT MOODY for the entire holiday. She is such a joy and really does have a great personality! She is sleeping well, eating well, and using the bathroom well. Jonathan was pretty amazed at the change in her and at first, thought Jenna was going well, too, but it does seem like Lindsey's doctor is certainly the better of the two -- or possibly Lindsey is just responding better. However, I tend to think it is just better medicine. Yesterday, for the first time in years, Lindsey did not melt down after Primary and start her hand flapping and crying fit stating that she just had to leave right at that second. I don't know if she is digesting food better or maybe her blood sugar is better regulated, but she normally has a fit that she is hungry but doesn't know what is the matter, etc. She just waited patiently and stayed happy. She also played her first complete game on Fri. night and did not quit or go off in a huff. She lost gracefully and happy. Now what to do with Jenna ... we are trying one more month on her drops and if not better, she will also go to Lindsey's doctor (who is much more expensive) which is the reason for the reluctance.

Fifth Grade Winter Sparkle Ball

2008-11-25T06:21:00.001-08:00

Erin came home from school a couple of weeks ago with a notice about the 5th grade Winter Sparkle Ball. I could not believe it ... a 5th grade ball?!! Talk about wanting these kids to grow up way too fast and it listed dress as semi-formal. Erin was absolutely beaming and thought this was the greatest thing in the whole entire world. I called Jonathan and he said, no way is she going. I said, well, let me get a little more information and find out exactly what it is all about. So one day when I was up at the school, I asked the secretary about it. She said this was the first she had heard about it and to ask her teacher. I said, well maybe the principal would be better, but she was out for the day. So she asked me to write down my name and phone number and someone would get back with me. I also added on the sheet of paper Erin's name and her teacher..........

Okay, so a couple of hours later I get a phone call from the secretary. She said, Ms. Ward, this is Tanya from Atoka Elementary School. I just wanted to let you know that your daughter is in 3rd grade and not 5th grade, so this dance isn't anything you need to worry about because 3rd graders aren't invited. I just stared at the phone with my mouth open. I had to think for a minute because I wanted to say, oh my goodness, you are so right! Thank you for clarifying that situation for me! And to think, this whole year I thought she was a 5th grader, but now that you bring it to my attention, I remember she really is in 3rd grade. But I didn't. No, I said slowly, I was asking for my daughter Erin WHO IS IN THE 5TH GRADE. Oh, she said, well, it is an after school event so your daughter is not required to go if you don't want her to. Again, I paused and slowly said, I understand she does not need to go to an after school function, I just wanted to get some information on what would be happening at this event.

So a couple of hours later I got another phone call from her teacher, Ms. Webb. She assured me there would not be slow dancing (hip grinding) and no dates. She also said Sunday best was very appropriate dress and they did not want anyone buying a new dress for this. It was just a fun event ... hula hoop contests, line dancing, pictures, food, etc. I told her in that case, a different name may be more appropriate such as the 5th grade sock hop, 5th grade Christmas party, anything other than the 5th grade ball. She said, I can tell you are not very comfortable with this and so would you like to chaperone? Yes, I would. It turns out that this dance, like everything else, is really just a fund raiser. They are at a new school this year (brand new school) and it seems like every time we turn around, there is another fund raiser. It is so ridiculous that they have to pay $1 to wear pajamas for pajama day and $1 to wear a silly hat for silly hat day. I know they are trying to get a playground, etc, but I really miss their old school. They had a principal with common sense who treasured childhood and was in no hurry to promote things beyond their years. I also miss their old secretary who knew every child and every family and had lots of intelligence as well as good old common sense!

Another Day

2008-11-25T06:06:00.000-08:00

Okay, so for my records here goes their progress:
Jenna is eating better and seems not so agitated. She still is getting up nicely in the mornings and no meltdowns so far. She does not seem to crave sugar as much. When shes cries now I can tell it is mostly fake so I tell her she is faking and she gets a big smile and stops. She continues to be much more rational and though still super duper wiggly, she is happy.
Lindsey was very tired this morning but instead of screaming and lashing out, came and asked me to help her. She seemed out of it and said she could not figure out any clothes to wear. I got her clothes, and she said thank you (again, that is huge for Lindsey) and put them on. She took her medicine nicely and stated she hates the taste. She has two capsules and she cannot swallow pills so she has to open them and mix with applesauce. But she does this on her own and finishes all the applesauce. She told me last night that she still gets mad inside but only a little and she can control it better and she feels more in control since taking the medicine. She also came home yesterday and said school was great. When I asked her why, she said she did not know why, it just was. Maybe she is feeling less anxiety, I don't know. Lindsey in school always has lots of friends and I think the kids kind of rally around her and like to protect her because she is shy and is a quiet crier, as in, when she gets nervous she sits quietly with tears streaming down her face. She just seemed very happy when she came home. Had another bowel movement and said she used to go every 3-4 days and now goes every day. She said that alone makes her feel alot better. She asked me to get her some tictacs or mini m&ms today so that she can practice swallowing pills.

Car Ride to School

2008-11-24T10:49:00.000-08:00

So, I was not prepared for this one. On the way to school today, Michael said, all I hear about anymore is sex. I said, oh, well where do you hear about this? Oh, school, church, etc. Church, I asked? Well, they use nicer terms and I know they are trying to help us, but it's still all I hear about. So then he goes on to say, but I have a question, what is gay sex? I about choked? Where are you hearing about that, I asked? In my Sunday School class. Do you mean your teacher is bringing up this conversation? No, another kid in my class asked about it to which I replied, well what did your teacher say? Oh, she just said you don't need to worry about it because gay marriage is not legal in Tennessee. I guess going along the lines that you don't have sex outside of marriage so we don't need to worry about that if they can't get married. I thought for sure then it was going to go into, well, I don't even understand that, how do two guys have sex ... but luckily he did not ask that. YIKES! Talk about an early morning discussion! So we just talked about how people today think that anything they want to do is okay, but how it is not Heavenly Father's plan, etc, Adam and Eve, the purpose of marriage, etc. I need Jonathan to come back!

Chinese Medicine

2008-11-24T09:55:00.000-08:00

For a year or so, Jonathan and I have been contemplating putting Jenna on something for her rages. She often gets completely out of control and is very overstimulated. She also never, ever stops moving or talking. However, she seems to hold it together at school ...but the second she walks in the door, she starts screaming about something. The only thing that helps her is to get sent to her room, barricade the door, and then after about 20 minutes of kicking, screaming, body slams, and she often cries herself to sleep, and when she wakes up, she is much better. I think part of this goes along with ocd in that she gets "stuck" and cannot get out of it, but I don't know if that is it, either. We have had tons of people tell us she is classic ADHD, but what has held us back is that if kids are on ritalin, etc. typically it only lasts for the school day and she is able to hold it together there behavior wise and academic wise, so we didn't see any great benefit. Anyway, after lots of thinking (years of thinking) we decided to take her for acupuncture. Well, that was an interesting experience because as soon as the dr started putting needles in her, she screamed at the top of her lungs, "get these things out of me" and when he didn't, she proceeded to pull them out herself (it does not hurt -- or so they tell me). At that point, I said to the dr, did I mention she has absolutely no pain tolerance?!! I took her back one more time and though she left them in a little longer, they are supposed to be in for about 15-20 minutes and she left them in for about 2 minutes, thus I felt it not to be a good use of money. He said her problems were her kidneys and spleen. He did not look at her tongue and feel her pulse which I was expecting him to do, but said he could tell that from the fact she searches the house for sugar (from the jar) and eats it by the spoonfulls if she can. She also licks salt right from the shaker. He said her body was telling him what was wrong ... who knows. However, he did give us some herbs for her to take in tincture form and this is my observation of them so far, and I am going to continue to post because I want to keep an accurate account. From day one, she falls asleep much easier and wakes easy and happy. She has only had one rage this week and that was at church on Wednesday night when it got late, and though she did cry some at other times, I was actually able to talk to her and she listened and stopped quickly. It was like a normal cry, and not a rage and her brain did not seem to be stuck. Her personality did not change. She was still very energetic, just not out of control. The part I loved is that every time she screams, she says, I hate myself, no one likes me, I'm so bad, etc. I asked her last night how she felt about herself and she said she felt really good about herself.

Lindsey also saw a chinese doctor, but a different one. This is because I know nothing of chinese medicine and didn't have a good referral from anyone. Jenna's doctor was an american doctor trained in TCM (traditional chinese medicine) and Lindsey's was an actual chinese man also trained in TCM. He is a 3rd generation doctor. Lindsey's experience was different. The reason she went is because she has been constipated since she was little and when I find her underwear still, let's just say it is not a pleasant site. She is also incredibly moody and physical at lashing out to others. She can be very sweet and when she is happy, she is an absolute joy. She is also very funny and makes us laugh all of the time. She just has a fun, cute personality. However, it is like walking on eggshells around her all the time because she can switch just like that. She also has alot of anxiety and has had times that I thought were a start of ocd for her. She also has a lot of sensory issues and flaps her hands alot or wrings her hands over and over when she is agitated. Lindsey LOVES the doctor. She enjoys acupuncture and was a perfect patient. She has gone two times and she actually gets her needles in her stomach, hands, legs and feet. He looked at her tongue and felt her pulse and said she has bad blood (?) and a poorly functioning liver. He has his own herbal pharmacy so where Jenna's drops came already prepared, I had to go back two days later to pick up Lindsey's capsules. He specifically made them for her. The purpose is supposed to be to improve digestion, help her liver to detox, help her constipation and increase blood flow to her brain so that it can regulate and keep healthy seratonin levels for better moods/less anxiety. Lindsey has been taking her herbs since Saturday morning, so two days. Her report so far is that she has had a bowel movement every day and she says it is much easier to go. She says she feels more calm, I don't know if I see it, but this morning she could not find her shoes and Erin found them for her. Normally, Erin would have to put them down and run because that would be something Lindsey would lash out at her for. However, she looked at her and said a simple thank you. I could not believe my ears. That, for her, is some progress.

I have lots of friends and some family whose children are taking medication for many different reasons and please know that I have tons of respect and admiration for what each of you is doing with your children. In our case, I did not see where traditional medicine was going to help my girls, so I opted for an alternative, and it may do the world of good or it may flop in my face -- but either way I am fascinated with all of this. Both drs said it takes about 3 weeks to see results, but so far, it looks at least somewhat promising.

Piano Recital

2008-10-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

I am trying to load my recital. It had some okay moments and lots of bad moments, but I did it and it is over! I was going to edit out the bad, but I thought, what the heck, I'll reveal it all! Two pieces I bombed, but one was my own fault. About half way through, I thought, wow, I am nailing this. I am awesome! And then it all fell apart! You should not lose focus nor should you let pride get in your way! All my little glitches are not that I forgot the music, rather that my fingers would just not move -- it was like they were frozen. I am actually very proud of myself and what did I learn? Never do another recital without taking a tranqilizer. I am not into drugging myself up, but I would not purposely subject myself to another day of clawed, shaky, cold, and clammy hands that do not bend as well as intense fear! Those are things you should not have to go through as an adult! And did I mention, it was all memorized? I was actually very impressed with my memorizing abilities because I did not think I could do it.

http://www.nowupload.com/:ZXV

I KNEW IT WOULD HAPPEN . ....

2008-10-14T20:44:00.000-07:00

Ever since we moved to Tennessee, I have been kind of freaked out by the fact that there so few street lights and so many ditches. I just knew I would end up in a ditch one day. Well, I have never gone into a ditch and lately I was just thinking, I don't know why I was so upset about them, I have actually done very well.

Tonight we decided to go out "Boo'ing". The missionaries came over for dinner and when they left, Michael, Erin, Lindsey, Jenna, Andrew and Madison (Erin's friend) went out on a mission to Boo 3 families. They all live fairly far away from each other and all of their roads are very dark. The first one went fine and we got to the second, the job was done and all was well. As we raced away and got to the end of their street, I went to turn around in someone's driveway and thought when I backed out that I was further than I actually was. When I went to go turn the wheel to turn back on the road, I went down their driveway ditch. Everyone here has them and I never saw it coming. It made a loud thud as we went down and then I didn't know what to do. I knew I couldn't get back up but wondered if I should complete the drop and go all the way down because once down, I could drive back up -- not on the driveway but on the grass (hard to explain) but when I tried to go further, there was that awful under the car scraping noise that no one wants to hear, so what could I do other than call the person whose house we had just boo'd and ask if he could come tow us out! Of course then the surprise was ruined, hey, we just boo'd you, can you come get us out of the ditch! But he did come with his truck (only after calling Jonathan who told him to give us a super hard time!) and thought he couldn't get us out, but after thinking for a moment, he ran home, got some wood and made kind of an impromptu ramp that worked like a charm. When we were towed back up, the fender fell off the car and the kids started screaming, "our van's falling apart!!!" in this kind of terror, but it popped back on and I don't know if there is damage, but we drove home okay. All I could think of was the conference talk about laughing at yourself and so we laughed and laughed and since we decided not to go venture onto yet another dark country road tonight (for our 3rd house), we ate all of that family's treats on the way home!

All for Nothing

2008-09-27T10:06:00.001-07:00

So I took Michael to his Scout Leader's house to go and his wife would not let them take their van. They crammed four boys and one leader and all of their things into this tiny little Mazda. Michael was able to take the cot, but no mattress. He held out hope until the end. His Young Men's president said, Michael, you're like a princess having to take a mattress to which he replied, yeah, I may be a princess but I sure would be a well rested one!

My Creation

2008-09-25T21:22:00.001-07:00

I am rather proud of myself. Michael is going on a weekend trip with the Young Men to Baton Rouge, LA to do cleanups from Hurricane Ike. I do not believe in having a miserable time because of awful sleeping conditions while camping (which is what they'll be doing) and not knowing exactly what they will be seeing and with Michael's thought problems, I just wanted to make sure he would sleep well at night ... so I was trying out all different types of sleeping arrangements. Normally, we use air mattresses but lately ours have started to leak and I really didn't want to buy new ones because it seems like we always have leaking problems; so, I purchased Michael a folding cot. It folds into a bag really quite compact and takes up virtually no space. Then I thought the cot was not quite comfortable enough, so I got a foam mattress topper, you know, the egg crate type -- all grooved. Well that was very nice and comfy, but I thought still a little thin, so I went to Target today and was going to get a 2nd, but then I spotted mattress toppers filled with what, I don't know, probably polyester or something but for the purpose of camping, I thought they looked great. They were really marketed for dorm rooms, but with school shopping over, they were on clearance for $10 but rather cushy and thick, so I got one of those. The combination of those two was perfect, but I didn't want Michael to have bed pieces all over the place, so I dug in my linen closet and found a set of sheets we do not use and they are Navy blue -- what a great camping color -- 2nd best only to brown! Then I made the dreaded trip to take out my sewing machine, and goodness knows, I cannot sew but I willed myself to set it up and begin, and this was my final creation. I made a kind of duvet cover and stuck both the mattress topper and foam pad inside so that it can be all rolled up like a sleeping bag. Okay, for anyone with sewing talent, this would be pathetic but for my ability, I have to say I did a darn good job!

Oct 2nd is the Date

2008-09-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

Oct 2nd is the official date of my first piano recital. I am not excited for it, but I am excited for it to be over. My teacher asked me, "What do you want people to feel when they are listening to you play" My answer: Nothing, I am just looking for some support. "Well what type of message are you trying to send?" My answer: This is amazing that I have memorized and am playing for you a gazillion notes all in one song. Who cares what they think ... these are friendship dues -- nothing more and nothing less! My teacher, Brother Call, is very into this event and has designated my friend Mandi to be my concert promoter. He has booked the church and is dictating my invitation list of at least 50 people. Okay, I am thinking about 10! In all honesty though, I have memorized 10 pieces for my recital and it is possible that I will do a very respectable job, of course, when my fingers are shaking like an earthquake has hit, the outcome may be quite different. Our Primary pianist was not there on Sunday so I played. I did pretty well until the birthday song. One of my Primary kids, Jax, said, "Sister Ward, that is pretty bad to come play in Primary when you can't play the birthday song!" But then he said, maybe when you move, you will get the job of Primary piano player ... yes, Jax, that is exactly what I am hoping for, too!

Erin did officially make the choir, and she is elated. If you can believe it, in 5th grade choir there are choir fees that must be paid. I feel like I am going to scream if one more child comes home from school with one more note asking for money or supplies! We haven't even recovered from school shopping yet!

AND THIS IS WHY I LOVE ATOKA, TN

2008-09-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

On Friday, Erin had her callbacks for honor choir. Normally, since I am so pathetic in the mornings and cannot get myself up, Erin and Lindsey are amazing helpers. Erin makes sure Jenna gets up kind of gets her going. I take care of Lindsey, but Lindsey gets Jenna's snack together, and then I make the final roll call when it is time to pray and go out for the bus. Well, since Erin stressed how important this day was for her and that she absolutely had to be to school on time, I told her not to worry about anyone but herself. In was on that day that I realized just how much of a help it really is, and Erin and Lindsey made the bus, but Jenna did not. She had about 5 meltdowns, especially when it was time to put on her shoes. I never did figure out the problem. Anyway, as we ran outside, seeing if the bus was still there, it was soon obvious we had missed it. The middle school/high school bus was just pulling up as we were running out and the bus driver opened her window and yelled out to me that she would take Jenna and would catch up to the elementary school bus and make sure that she got on safely. So Jenna did not hesitate. She ran up to the bus and I never worried. I did not feel I had to call the school to make sure Jenna was there. I knew she would either get on her bus or the other bus driver would take Jenna to school. And she did make it to her own bus with no problems.

Callbacks!

2008-09-10T13:47:00.000-07:00

Erin has a 5th grade honor choir at her school this year and they had auditions last week. She informed me that she would find out today or tomorrow if she had made the callback list -- and she then informed me that if she did not make callbacks, she would not cry at school but she would certainly cry when she got home. I think they take 30 children, but there are about 150 in 5th grade at her school. Well she came home today full of smiles because she made the callback list. They reaudition on Friday and I would be highly surprised if she doesn't make it, but I guess you never know. Way to go, Erin!

Stomach Bug ... Yuck!

2008-09-09T19:22:00.000-07:00

Last night, in the middle of the night, in came Andrew because he had wet his bed and then after that was taken care of, Lindsey straggled in. She said she felt sick and sure enough, she wasn't there for more than a minute and she started vomiting. Luckily, she had grabbed a bowl on her way so that part wasn't bad. She fell right back asleep, but stayed home from school today. She said she was feeling alot better, but I missed my church cleaning job today because Lindsey was home and I clean on Tuesday. When the kids all got home from school, I ran up to the church to clean for not my normal four hours, but just long enough to get the trash emptied and the church vacuumed. While I was in the hallway, someone came to the door which always freaks me out when I am there alone. It was Chris Hodges, who is in our Ward and also in the Navy Band. He was hurrying to get his key into the lock and in ran his 5 yr old daughter, Chloe. I thought she had to go to the bathroom, but he said they were driving and she had said she felt like she was going to get sick, too. Now that part, I found amusing because if we were out and about and one of my children said they felt sick, I would not run to the church, chance them not making to the bathroom, and then even if they make it, let them vomit in a public toilet - I would just lead them to some inconspicuous grass, but anyway, I then called my friend Mandi and her little boy had the same thing, so I guess this fun bug is going around. Lindsey felt fine all day but then tonight we took Michael to karate and she fell asleep. When we got home, she said she felt sick again, and sure enough, it looks like this isn't as quick a sickness as I thought. These are the times it is hard to be alone. To take care of her and then try to give a little attention to everyone else is hard because you can only stretch yourself so far -- and honestly, I feel quite queasy, too. Oh well, hopefully we're blessed and this will pass over the rest of our family!

Kit Kittredge: American Girl Movie

2008-09-07T21:06:00.000-07:00

Well yesterday we saw the Kit Kittredge movie and it was excellent! We went up to the base and ours has a really cute little movie theatre, which is free. I love it there! There are about 35 seats plus lots of bean bag chairs on the floor, so the kids can either sit or lounge. Popcorn is free and drinks are 75 cents, and candy is 75 cents. I really enjoy going there for a couple of reasons; first, they show pretty good movies and only once have I seen it really crowded; second, it is a fun thing to let the kids invite a friend to without it costing very much; third, if anyone gets antsy (typically Andrew) I can leave with him and still feel like the kids are safe because it is so small and only one way in and one way out; and fourth, it is in the same building as a lounge with lots of tv's with all types of video game systems and games, ping pong tables, pool tables, air hockey, computers, board games, etc. So I can leave Michael out playing video games if he thinks the movie is too "girly" for him. He opted not to go into this one, but I think he really would have liked it.

Small Favors

2008-09-07T20:37:00.001-07:00

You have to appreciate the small favors of life, and today this was mine. Andrew lay down on my bedroom floor about 5:00 pm playing with his little police car and now at 10:30 he is still asleep. It was such an easy night! And he is not sick, I think just worn out. Now I have to think, do I dare move him to his bed or do I just leave him there! Sleep tight, little guy.

BEST FEELING

2008-09-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite all time treats is when I go to take clothes from the washer to the dryer and find that the dryer is actually empty! Hallelujah!

Grandparents Day

2008-09-04T20:04:00.000-07:00

For the second year in a row, Jenna has had grandparents day at school. I absolutely despise this day because for all those little ones who do not have grandparents remotely near, it is not an enjoyable day. I did not grow up with any grandparents close and every year I either had my grandmother-aged babysitter come (at my mother's request ... not mine) or I had no one. There were always some lucky kids with two grandmothers in attendance and usually one would go try to find a poor soul such as myself and sit by me, but I always felt a little humilitated. My mom promised she would always come out for grandparents day, but she has not ... so, poor Jenna. Anyway, I decided I am going in to eat breakfast with her, and I didn't even ask permission (boy am I getting rebellious)! I'm sorry, Jenna, that you don't have any grandma's coming for your special day, but I hope you know how much I love you!

Armpit Hair

2008-09-04T19:58:00.000-07:00

I about died laughing a couple of nights ago. Michael came into my room and asked if he could talk to me for a minute. He shut the door and said, Mom, I have to tell you something and I am kind of freaked out about it. Of course, a million thoughts go through my head as to what was the matter and my panic is rising and he then says, "I'm growing hair under my arms". It took everything I had not to laugh out loud but I sure was chuckling on the inside. He then asked, do you want to see it? I don't know, I asked ... do I have to? Yes, he felt he had to show it to me so I looked and there is just this little tuft of hair. I gave the whole, Michael, this is just what happens speech, blah, blah, blah and he said, I know but I just don't want to be as hairy as Dad!!!

Erin's New Teeth

2008-08-28T17:21:00.000-07:00

At Erin's last orthodontist appointment, they told me that her orthodontist needed to see me for a consultation. Erin took that to mean her braces were coming off. I took it to mean they were going to hit us up for some new procedure and more money. However, Erin told me it was important to have faith, and by golly, she was right.

Here is a picture of Erin with no more braces. I think she looks beautiful!

On a sad note, Jonathan left today for 8 months. That is not fun for any of us. I feel a little bad because people have made comments to him like they would never leave their family, or he doesn't need to go to the school, etc. and I take them to be judgemental comments. It feels like this is the right thing to do for reasons that are clear to us -- and as a family we feel very peaceful and positive. Our Ward and our friends here has reached out with so much love and support that it is truly unbelievable. We feel incredibly blessed to be here in Tennessee, and we just pray these next months go by quickly!

Blendtec - Smoothies Galore!

2008-08-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

When Jonathan and I got married (16 yrs ago), his parents gave us a mixer/wheat grinder from Kitchen Mill. Well, after 16 yrs, our wheat grinder stopped working. Jonathan thought it was not the motor but some other teeth like part. We called the company and asked them about it because we thought that part had a lifetime warranty. They told us to send it back and they would look at it. Worst case scenario was that they would refurbish it for $100 -- so we sent it back and about 3 weeks later they mailed us back a brand new wheat grinder for free. How's that for customer service?!!! It was then that we learned the products are no longer Kitchen Mill but Blendtec, as that is what is advertised on our new wheat grinder.

Being so impressed with the company, we started looking at their other products and saw a blender we really liked. We decided we were going to get this for our birthdays in October, but since Jonathan will be gone long before then (and we got a killer deal on Ebay), we ordered one. It is so fun I can hardly believe it. Jonathan has been making us smoothies (you can put an apple in whole -- they say don't even remove the seeds because that is where the protein comes from), Wendy's frosties (yum!) and Jonathan even made a loaf of bread starting with the wheat kernels themselves. It crushes ice like nothing I've ever seen. The funnest part is you don't have to guess on anything because the machine automatically shuts off when it is done. I have had a T-Fal blender for years that I do not like and it is just pathetic compared to this amazing blender. I think there is nothing it cannot do! All I can say is "WOW!"

A good Day!

2008-08-07T06:59:00.001-07:00

Erin, Lindsey and Jenna all decided to take the bus this morning. I was not surprised for Erin and Jenna, but for Lindsey this is huge! She has intense bus phobia which doesn't mean she is afraid of the bus, but she is scared to death she will not know which bus to get on and she did it! I am so proud of her. In addition, last night she said that she was not scared and she didn't understand why. She said she was excited for school, but not really nervous at all. What a great day.

School Dress Code

2008-08-06T21:04:00.000-07:00

I love the dress code here in our schools. I didn't know public schools could have such a strict dress code, but they do and this code is strictly enforced. So did you catch that? In elementary school, they can wear shorts if they are to the knees, but in middle school and high school, no shorts at all.

MUNFORD MIDDLE SCHOOL DRESS CODE

Students are expected to keep themselves well-groomed and neatly dressed at all times. Any form of dress or hair style which is contrary to good hygiene or which is disruptive or detrimental to the orderly educational progress of other students will not be permitted.
The following specific items of apparel or accessory will not be permitted.

(THIS LIST IS NOT ALL INCLUSIVE)

DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS:

SHORTS, SHORT SKIRTS, OR SHORT DRESSES

Tube tops, halters, tank tops, fishnet shirts/tops or shirts that show any part of the stomach or cleavage. Spandex, leotard type pants, slit skirts, and mini-skirts are inappropriate.

ANY clothing that advertises drugs, alcoholic beverages, casinos or have obscene or inappropriate printing or pictures.

Shoes with metal cleats or taps

Bare feet, flip-flops, or house shoes

Head coverings of any kind - caps, hats, nets, wave caps, du-rags, bandannas, etc.

Sunglasses

Pants with belts or buttons unbuckled or unbuttoned

Overalls with straps unbuckled

Pants or shirts that are torn or have holes or rips.

Low riding pants, pants with writing on the rear, and pajama pants.

Body piercing and accessories considered dangerous, disruptive or detrimental example:

long chains or studded dog collars

Pants with belt loops must be worn with a belt

Safety, health, and individual dignity provide the basis for any dress code. If clothing is disruptive to the learning process or if it is embarrassing to others, steps will be taken to deal with the individual student. If there is a question as to whether an article of clothing is appropriate for school wear, please contact the school administration prior to wearing.

First Day of School

2008-08-05T13:24:00.001-07:00

Missing from the pictures is Michael because he is missing his first THREE days of school! Lucky Kid! Erin had on a pair of new tan pants that looked so cute on her. She came home 3 hours later with a sick look on her face. When I asked her what was wrong she showed me the sharpie marker line right across the knee on her pants. She said, it just slipped right off of my paper -- I asked my teacher if she thought it would come out and she said no, probably not. Though I feel badly, it reaffirms in mind (again and again) why I do not like to pay much for Erin's clothes, as they only typically last only short while!

Kindergarten Registration

2008-08-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

We just got back from Kindergarten registration and after seeing all the teachers, I am still super glad that Jenna is with Ms. Patricia. She is truly wonderful! After going to Jenna's classroom, we walked around the brand new school to find Erin and Lindsey's classrooms. There are three main hallways where the classrooms are. Jenna's hallway is green, Lindsey's is orange and Erin's is either purple or blue; I can't remember at the moment. I like that because if they get lost they only have to look for their color and that narrows things down quite a bit. At their school last year, it was so overcrowded that they did away with the music and art rooms and those teachers traveled with carts. Now they are back to having regular music and art rooms and that is really fun. Their old music teacher was loony and she did not transfer to the new school, and all I can say about that is "Praise the Lord!"

Yesterday, I found out that Lindsey and Jax, a boy from Primary, will be in the same classroom again. I called them both over and told them they were together again. Lindsey's comment was, "That's disgusting" and Jax's comment was, "You might as well just shoot me now." I told them both that people save such words like those for those they love the best! However, tonight after seeing that Jax is the only one she knows in her class, Lindsey is rethinking her previous words and is rather happy they are together. Erin has her friend Briana in her class. They have been together now for three years and Briana lives two houses away from us. Jenna, however, knows no one in her class and you can see her anxiety levels topping the chart. They have staggered beginning for kindergarteners and I am thrilled that she gets to go on the first day because only after going will she feel better. There is nothing I can say.

So Jonathan isn't even gone yet (well he is gone ... but not to Virginia) and I am already tired! I don't know if I am up for 7 months of this -- yikes!!! Andrew screamed all the way home because he doesn't want to go to his preschool anymore. He wants to be in Jenna's kindergarten class. I was trying to figure out what was wrong and he said he didn't want to go to the little school anymore (his school) and Jenna said, he just wants to be in elementary school. Andrew then tried to repeat it ... Yes, I just want to be in ____ (long pause). He was trying and trying to com eup with the word, but he could not remember the word elementary and he probably can't say it either. So finally he said, Yeah, I just want what Jenna said!

And More

2008-08-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

My neighbor Carolyn, who lives across the street, is good friends with Jenna's Pre-K teacher from last year, Ms. Patricia. We loved Ms. Patricia (isn't that funny here ... all the kids call their teachers by their first names in the elementary school only) and when we learned she would be a kindergarten teacher this year and would also be moving to the new Atoka Elementary School, we really wanted Jenna to have her again. Anyway, I had heard from Lindsey's teacher and Erin's teacher, but not from Jenna's teacher. So tonight I went over to Carolyn's to see if she would call Ms. Patricia and find out if Jenna was in her class. While I was at Carolyn's front door knocking, up drove a car and who was it but Ms. Patricia! And yes, Jenna will be in her class next year. She is the only Pre-K student from her class last year that will be blessed to have this wonderful teacher again. We were so excited that even Andrew couldn't stop hugging her. It looks like they should all have a great year!

School Shopping ... Officially DONE!!!

2008-08-01T16:22:00.000-07:00

For those of you with boys, you will just not even understand how big a feat this is, but for those with girls, I know you are with me. When Michael got school age, I always thought school shopping was rather easy, as in you just get a few pair of pants, twice as many shirts, and a pair of new shoes -- no big deal. You could go out in one afternoon, make a quick sweep of the store, and presto, shopping was done. Michael barely ever wore out his clothes, so I maybe had to supplement with one or two items during the year and that was it. School shopping for girls is an entirely different story! For someone who herself hates to wear more than jeans and a t-shirt, it is not fun to look at your girls and have them look sloppy or mismatched. I like their clothes perfectly matched with good socks and matching shoes. Okay, to be honest, if I could afford to just go into any store and pick out what I wanted regardless of cost, it wouldn't be so bad, but to try to bargain shop it all can make it into a daunting task. I finally finished last week after finding Erin some awesome shirts at a department store and then 6 pr of capris (in the same lot) on Ebay for $20 (including shipping). 6 pair of capris that are like new is a pretty good deal if you ask me. So the clothes were done, but today was tax free shopping day in Tennessee, so I went to Walmart very early this morning and got the mounds of items on their class lists, one last pair of shoes for Erin, found super cute Crocs (imiatation) on sale for $2.00 and got all the girls a pair, found Jenna's kindergarten mat, stocked up on socks and new underwear, and now I can truthfully say we are good to go! I was dreading this Walmart trip, but early in the morning, it was quite enjoyable. Now all of their backpacks are overflowing with all of these supplies, but we are ready!

Later this afternoon, Lindsey's new teacher called to introduce herself and my goodness, I am in love with her already. Her name is Ms. Craig. I talked to her briefly about Lindsey's anxiety and she told me she always hugs her kids in school (which is exactly what Lindsey needs) and that she has a real soft spot for shy girls. She is experienced, super sweet, and said she will totally watch out for Lindsey and the anxiety she will be having with going to the new school. I am really excited!!!

Well, that's it for now. I am going outside to attempt the task of cleaning out our van. The mere thought makes me cringe, but it sure does feel better when it's done.

Manners

2008-07-31T21:05:00.000-07:00

I had a bunch of children playing at my house today and then they all wanted to go on the water slides, so I got it out, set it up and then had to sit out there and monitor everything ... well this took up a lot of time on my part, which was fine, but when the first group left, they did just that. They got up and left (these were some of Michael's friends and Michael is not here). So since I was just sitting there, I decided it would be good if I reminded them of some basic manners. I called them back over and explained that when I am required to sit out and monitor their playing, which I have to do on that slide, and when they decide to leave there are 4 words I really need to hear. They are "thank you" and "good bye". So they looked relieved that they weren't in some kind of trouble, repeated what I told them to say and they were good sports. Well next left two of Jenna's little friends and again, they just kind of took off together. So I called them back over and explained that since they were here playing with Jenna, when they decide to go, first they should say goodbye to Jenna and then they should say good bye to me, and again, I would appreciate a thank you. So they did just that. And then it seemed like all the kids were paying attention to my manners lesson and really soaking it all in, and do you know for the rest of the day, any time one of them came over, I got a goodbye and a thank you. When did manners stop being important?!!!

Colors ... Colors ... Colors

2008-07-31T20:44:00.000-07:00

I think I'm going to have to change my background soon -- it does make me rather dizzy when I look at it! But just for kicks, I'll leave it for another week or so. My absolute favorite color in the world is pink. I love it with a passion. Now of my 3 girls, Erin's favorite color has always been pink, Jenna's is pink, and Lindsey's is blue. I think they all look beautiful in pink, but Lindsey can wear about any color well, Erin looks really good in white, pink, blue, lavendar and green, and Jenna looks good in white, pink, sage green, red and lavendar. When the girls were little I always dressed them in pink, and I feel now like I may have overdone it. Erin was talking to my mom on the phone tonight and I overheard her saying that her "old" favorite color was pink but now it kind of makes her sick. What?!!! My ears perked right up. She said her new favorite color is green. Jenna then came in and said that pink kind of makes her sick too and now she only likes red. I already know Lindsey doesn't like pink. Oh boy, they could tell I was absolutely crushed so they both quickly TRIED to redeemed themselves and said actually that pink was their second favorite color, but I don't believe those words for a minute. Oh what am I going to do?!!! Lucky for me the school shopping is already done (school starts next week) and so for at least one more year, pink will still be the color of preference in their closets!

New Look

2008-07-30T06:34:00.000-07:00

I chose this green retro background because when Michael was first born, Jonathan got a job teaching in Paintsville, KY. He went out a couple of days before we did and found us a house to rent. It was very much like a farm house and it was filthy. The missionaries had lived in it for years and it had fleas (because the missionaries had cats) and spiders and canned food that was about 20 years outdated. I cleaned and cleaned and cleaned that place. I threw out mounds and mounds of trash and eventually got it decent. Anyway, the biggest drawback to the house was that everything was green and not just one color green, but various shades. This background reminds me of the kitchen floor design. I know it well because I spend many an hour scrubbing on my hands and knees. I'll have to find some pictures and post them for your visual enjoyment! We lived there for 4 months and I just couldn't take it anymore -- thus prompted the purchasing of our first home!

I Passed Some Gas

2008-07-29T21:10:00.000-07:00

At our party, a little girl came whose name is Fiona. She is 8 years old and she has a lot of anxiety and needs to talk alot -- yet she is quite proper and has a quiet voice. That is very familiar to me so I feel quite a bond to little Fiona. Her mom did not stay and Fiona came up to me after we had eaten cake and told me that she didn't feel so well and that this happens to her alot when she is at other people's homes that she doesn't go to all the time and eats sweets -- so I told her to just go sit down for a little bit and drink some water, which she did and she shortly came and told me that she felt alot better and that she thought she could go and play outside again. Fast forward a week, Fiona was at the roller skating party. Her mom had to go and put her little sister to bed and Fiona did not know how to roller skate, so bless her heart, she was holding on to the wall and holding on to poles and holding on to many people. She was very distressed and yet excited at the same time. Well they had some snacks out and cake. Fiona came up to me and told me that she did not feel very well because she had just eaten 8 (I thought she was going to say pieces of cake) cheetos and again explained that this happens to her alot when she is at places she normally doesn't go, so I told her to go get some water and sit down for a little bit and she would feel better. So about 30 second later, she came back so excited and said, Sister Ward, guess what I feel better and I think I can skate again! I said, oh, Fiona that was fast -- I told you that water would make you feel better to which she replied, oh no, that wasn't it, Sister Ward. I just passed some gas!

Rollerskating

2008-07-29T13:59:00.000-07:00

So the kids were invited to a rollerskating party on Saturday night and they had rented out our local skating rink (which isn't anything to brag about -- the rink that is) but anyway, it was mostly people we knew from church. Michael decided to go and I don't know if any of you remember in Newport, Michael's friends were all into rollerblading and poor Michael absolutely could not skate -- so I tried to teach him and that didn't work and he ended up taking ice skating lessons. By the end of the 6 weeks, he was catching on a little. Well, I don't think he has skated since then but he decided to go and he put on some skates and he did a good job. Jenna, Erin and Lindsey are all really good skaters, but the person I'd like to brag on is myself. Since my Primary children were there, I thought I would make them laugh and skate around a little and so I was doing it as a joke, but I have to say I am still pretty good on roller skates. I was the only one there who could skate backwards and I tried the sitting duck move but the skates they have there are very back heavy, as in if you lean back at all, you wipe out so everytime I tried to bend my knees to basically sit down, I would fall back. It was a really fun evening and was like a step back in time. So we had our party two weeks ago on a Sat. evening, then last Sat they went roller skating ... the kids are getting used to this and are wondering who is having the party this week! Another girl, Michelle, was there with her boys and she is in our Relief Society Presidency. I told her we should have our next enrichment night at the rink and she agreed. Wouldn't that be funny to see all the ladies skating!

On another church note, two months ago a group of us decided to do our visiting teaching at Chili's over dinner and we had a fantastic turnout. Now the Relief Society is putting together a sisters night out each month at a different restaurant and that is the type of activities I like! I couldn't go last month because I was in North Carolina, but this month it is at another mexican restaurant that is so, so yummy. I think this is really fun to get to eat out and gab away! The other fun part was that the time I went, some people showed up that never come to anything and it was great to get to know them better. Good food pulls people in like nothing I've ever seen!

Cycle of Anger

2008-07-28T21:09:00.000-07:00

When I came back from North Carolina, Andrew was miserable because Jonathan took the kids camping and he came back with chigger bites -- everywhere! His face is bad,arms have some, but it is his legs that are horrendous. I could not even bring myself to take a picture of them because there must have been 100 bites on each leg and poor Andrew was so, so itchy. They would fill up with fluid (the poison) and it looked absolutely horrendous. Everytime I took him out, so many people thought he had the chicken pox and that is really what it looked like. Anyway, he was kind of a pill for a few days and one day he would not stop screaming so I got my camera and took pictures. When he would scream, I said, oh come on, do it bigger -- I know you can do better. So he would open his mouth a little wider and scream louder. Finally, he started giggling and these pictures show the progression to his smile.

Our First Tree

2008-07-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

After 16 years of marriage, Jonathan and I together planted our first tree and it was so exciting! It is a red maple tree and tomorrow I am going to go take a picture of it and post. As is typical of us, we bought it and then it sat potted on the side of our house for about 3 months before we actually could follow through with the whole experience of tree planting. We couldn't decide the exact placement was the problem. But horray for us -- it makes us feel like real homeowners now and I just love the looks of it!

2008-07-28T17:38:00.000-07:00

And a couple more

2008-07-28T17:24:00.000-07:00

Now the party pictures!

2008-07-28T17:18:00.001-07:00

4th of July Activity - Flag Raising Ceremony

2008-07-28T17:04:00.000-07:00

Here is Michael at his 4th of July flag raising ceremony with some Boy Scouts. Jenna at swimming lessons, Erin in her favorite activity, climbing trees, and I can't remember what else!

Swimming Lessons and More

2008-07-28T16:55:00.000-07:00

Though no one's birthday, we decided to do a combined birthday party for all of the kids last week. This was for a couple of reason. First, since no one but Erin had a party last year, we didn't want them to come back later in life and say all of their problems stemmed from a lack of birthday celebrations. Second, it just sounded fun. So we had alot of kids. I don't really know how many, but I guess around 50 including ours. It was really, really fun! We had two big water slides and rockets and games. The boys (Michael's friends) mostly played video games and basketball, but they did make it onto the slides, too. There were kids from about 3-14 and they all had a great time and they played for hours. Instead of a pinata, we just threw candy all over the front yard and told them when the left, they could pick out 10 pieces. I had 2 teenage girls from church come over the help and they were awesome -- in addition, lots of parents stayed so even though it was still a little chaotic, just due to the numbers, it was pretty easy. The best part is for 3+ hours I didn't hear one complaint! We worked it so that even if multiple kids from one family came, they were only invited for one of our children. That kept the presents down to a minimum (which we wanted) and didn't overtax any families with too many gifts. It was a perfectly hot Tennessee summer day and everyone seemed to have a great time. These pictures show the beginning crowd -- but I kept misplacing my camera so I couldn't keep up well with pictures!

Jonathan and Michael have left for Utah and it is so quiet! Michael talks non-stop so that is different and Jonathan, though he doesn't talk so much, is just kind of loud in general. School starts in 1 1/2 weeks here and everyone feels ready. The summer has gone by so fast!

I'm Back!

2008-07-06T12:31:00.001-07:00

It's been so long since I posted I about couldn't even remember my user name and password! But I'm ready to continue on this blogging stuff. The thing I would like to know is how do I get a fun background? I can't stand the looks of this but I really don't know how to change it to something nice to look at. Any ideas?

Our summer is already half over if you can believe it. The kids have been out of school for six weeks and have five more to go. I just can't believe how it has flown. I have really enjoyed having them home, but Andrew has hated it. I think he misses that attention he got all day having them gone. He screams all the time now and it drives me up a wall! Let's see ... our happenings.

Michael attended a Memphis Grizzlies basketball camp and had a great time. He also went to his school basketball camp and a week long scout camp. He will be going out with Jonathan to Utah this summer for 2 weeks and comes home just in time for school to start. He is a purple belt in karate and is doing great!

Erin and Lindsey both took a session of swimming lessons on base and passed their levels. They are quite good swimmers. Jenna also took her first session and did well. The two older girls will be going to Arts and Crafts camp this week and then pottery camp next week. They have gone the past two summers and love these camps. Lindsey has been learning to cook and really seems to enjoy it. She makes us delicious pancakes a few mornings a week. Erin is doing so well on the piano! She is studying with my teacher now and what a huge difference that has made. She sounds so, so good!

Jenna is all about play. As soon as she wakes up in the morning she needs to know if it is time to play. She is on the go all day long and it is exhausting to watch her go! She is quite good to Andrew and really tries to include him in all she does.

We are going to North Carolina this week for my mom's 70th birthday. That is so strange to me because 70 sounds kind of old but I still think my mom is quite young. Actually, the older I get, the younger 70 sounds! I can remember going to celebrate my grandfather's 80th birthday and thinking how lucky he should feel to be alive at such an old age! I was about 13 then ... oh how things change.
I got a new camera so I don't have the software downloaded yet. I will try to do that today and get up a bunch of pictures.

Okay ... Here We Go

2008-03-10T06:48:00.001-07:00

I don't usually do tags like this, but I guess I was feeling a little crazy today!

Where were you born? Hartford, CT

Middle name: Ellen

How old will you be this year? 39

Nicknames: Cindy Lou Hoo

Are you taller than your mother or father? Same as mom, shorter than dad.

Do you cry often during movies? Very rarely.

What is your biggest pet peeve? Cliques

Favorite color: Pink ... Pink ... Pink

Favorite foods: None ... I really don't like eating that much. However, I do have favorite candy ... Milk Duds, Hot Tamales and Fruity flavored tootsie rolls

Favorite beverage: Milk shakes, half chocolate, half vanilla

Favorite cold cereal: Honey Bunches of Oats

Favorite smells: Baby Lotion, a clean home, fresh cut grass and fall.

Favorite time of day: Night time

What brand of shampoo/conditioner do you use? Pantene

Favorite make-up products? I don't use make-up

How many pillows do you sleep with? As many as I can locate, but I certainly do prefer three or four.

Do you play an instrument? Clarinet and I am so pleased to announce that I am getting rather good on the piano.

Have you ever been skinny dipping? Yes

Did you do any sports in High School? Softball and soccer

What was the last movie you saw in the theater? Aquamarine

What is your favorite article of clothing? My pink shirts and green sweater. I would wear that combination every day if it didn't have to get washed!

What is your dream vacation? A snow vacation -- Snowmobiling, hiking, skiing, and, yes a wood burning stove in a cabin.

What was your first impression of your spouse? I thought he was awfully cute, but more than that, so friendly. I had just come to Utah on an exchange program and saw Jonathan in the campus store. He remembered my name and that was huge to me because I knew absolutely no one.

If you were an animal what would you be? A dog

What is your favorite “me- time” activity? Reading and shopping.

Favorite TV shows: Family Feud, American Idol, The Dugger (sp?)Family( Lots of people make fun of them, but I love watching all of their cute kid)

What is your dream car? One that doesn't have mechanical problems.

What is one of your weaknesses? I don't do mornings well at all. I also procrastinate, and I hate that.

What do you fix for dinner when there’s nothing to fix? Egg and cheese sandwiches or macaroni and cheese. Though I have been lots better lately and typically have some meals I have frozen.

OKAY ... I'm getting bored with this! There are alot of questions, which is probably why I never do these!!!

If you could live in a different decade/era which one would it be? Early 20th century --- much simplier way of life.

Do you consider yourself outgoing? When I am comfortable in a situation, I am extremely outgoing to others. When I am new in the situation (moving), I am more of an introvert

What is something you are constantly working on? Being a better mother. I know how I want to be, but I always seem to fall short of that goal.

Any hidden talents? Nope. The few talents I have, I make sure to flaunt.

What is a word or phrase you overuse? Do you know what I mean?!!

What is the worst thing that happened to you this past year? Can't think of anything awful.

What is the best thing that happened to you this past year? The realization that I am going to go back to college and starting to plan for that.

What is one thing you hope to accomplish this year? To become a better piano player and to have Andrew sit through church. Having Jonathan sitting up on the stand every week is truly the pits!

The best piece of advice you learned this past year? It's okay to say no once in a while when people ask you to do something. You have to keep yourself sane, too!

Don't Forget ... the Butter, too!

2008-03-06T06:20:00.000-08:00

Jenna must have some nutritional deficiencies because she is addicted to sugar and salt. She will lick the salt right out of the shaker (I'll bet you all wish you could come eat at our home now, right?!) and eats sugar by the spoonfulls if she can get a moment alone in the kitchen. This morning, while eating breakfast, Jonathan was talking about this and said how she just seemed to have these huge cravings for them. Jenna heard and piped up, "And don't forget the butter, Dad. You don't know about that one, but I sneak it all the time when you're not looking!" What a silly child she is!

All mid-west concert

2008-02-07T12:37:00.000-08:00

Michael had his concert this weekend and it was so exciting for us to watch. This is the first song ... not the most exciting of the bunch nor the most challenging, but it was the only one we taped. They sold cd's of the concert and we opted to get one of those instead, so that we could just sit back and enjoy it. He had a really great experience. I am so glad he had the opportunity.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53KR4h9sGr8

Okay ... so you need to go to this link again. I cannot get videos to post!

Lindsey's Baptism

2008-02-06T09:08:00.000-08:00

Well, yesterday was the day ... Lindsey was baptized. I could not believe that she was 8 years old. We had enlarged a picture of her blessing and it seems like that was just yesterday. In the picture, she was sitting in our $5 thrift store rocking chair that was ugly the day we got it and just as ugly the day it finally broke down and could be repaired no longer.

We had severe tornado watches in our area last night and it came close to having to call off the baptism. The Ward Mission Leader's wife was afraid for him to come up and fill the font. There was flooding and huge downpours along with the winds, and it did actually touch down in quite a few places in Memphis, Jackson, and a little town just about 10 miles south of us ... but we were rather torn. Jonathan's parents were here and leaving the next day and then Jonathan will be out of town starting Thursday until Sunday so doing it on Saturday was not an option either, so we decided to have faith and just do it, and it turned out wonderful. We had not the number in attendance we expected, but there were quite a few brave souls who came out and supported Lindsey, including her best friend and her teacher at school. She looked beautiful, said she felt wonderful, and it was a very special evening.

The 911 Call

2008-01-24T16:22:00.000-08:00

I was out taking Erin to get her glasses and Jenna was playing with her little friend, Drew. Apparently, Drew said he didn't want to be her friend anymore so Jenna got mad and decided to call 911. She asked the dispatcher if they could put Drew in jail because he didn't want to be her friend anymore and then hung up. Well, of course, what happens next is that they come to your home. I am so glad I wasn't here. Jonathan invited the officer in to come and talk to Jenna, who replied, "I didn't know you couldn't do that." She still felt perfectly justified in her actions because, after all, that was a mean thing he said and he deserves to be punished!

SNOW IN TENNESSEE!

2008-01-24T07:44:00.000-08:00

It did not accumulate, of course, but for a whole five minutes we had flurries. Andrew and I just saw and watched the flakes kind of dance around. There was hope it would turn into something, but just as quickly as it started, it left. For all of you who get snow in your area, build a snowman for us!

Well ... the verdict is in!

2008-01-23T07:02:00.000-08:00

And Erin needs glasses. It is just crazy because she went from seeing just fine (20/20) a year ago to 20/100 in one eye and 20/200 in the other. The same thing happened to Michael a couple of years ago and I don't really understand it. Jonathan and I both have close to perfect vision, so how did our children end up with such bad eyes? Oh well, the positive thing is that she is super excited and picked out of course, pink Hannah Montana glasses. Lindsey also had her eyes checked and was very disappointed to find out she sees just perfectly (she really wanted the Hannah glasses, also!) I told her to give herself another year and she'll probably follow suit! The bad part about that is that her teacher said she is not doing very well in math. Lindsey said it was because she could not see the problems on the paper, and that would have been an easy solution. Now I guess I'll actually have to do something to help her some!

Erin does look very cute in glasses and when they come in tomorrow, I'll take a picture of her.

Our washing machine is broken and I have laundry piled up all over the place. Jonathan comes home today and hopefully he can fix it. I really don't want to have to purchase any appliances right now.

Chiropractor

2008-01-21T14:44:00.001-08:00

I never thought we were chiropractor type people, but we have someone in our Ward who moved in recently who is a chiropractor. I got talking to him at our Primary activity and ended up making an appt for Michael. We went this morning and he said he has some serious misalignments and thinks it will help with his ocd and processing. Who knows ... maybe it will and maybe it won't but I guess it is worth a shot. I really like him as a person and he seems very competent and caring, as well as very honest, so we'll see. Michael was so excited to go because he told him most people grow 1/4 inch just from decompression of the spine at the first visit. We haven't remeasured him yet!

We have started Jenna on a new program to see if it will help her behavior. The first step is 20 minutes a day of YAMA (you and me alone) time. I haven't read ahead yet and am just trying to go step by step. She had a full fledged 1/2 hour rage yesterday at church because Andrew took some of her goldfish crackers, as in she was screaming, thrashing, whaling, etc. I finally had to take her out to the van and told her we would sit in the cold car until she was done, which took another 15 minutes or so. Oh boy ... sitting by myself at church is just about the funnest thing I've every done!

I'm trying to post a picture of Michael at Homecoming with his escort. It was quite cute. I stink at pictures, but I'll try!

Videos of Ward Christmas Party?

2007-12-17T16:11:00.001-08:00

I hope this works. It took me hours to get this on!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YpvUhTkQv8

Ward Christmas Party

2007-12-16T04:56:00.000-08:00

Well, we had the Christmas party and the kids did such a good job! Briana was trying to explain to me how to connect my camcorder to the computer but I think I am missing a cord, so I will go to radio shack tomorrow and try to get one and post a video. If I do say so myself, Lindsey was just the cutest little Mary, and she actually did it. We were very proud of all of them.

Moron Coaches

2007-12-13T08:08:00.000-08:00

Michael has his Beta Club induction this evening and he also has a basketball game. The game was not on the schedule until this past Monday when it got added, and the induction has been on the schedule for months. So his coaches told him last night that they needed to remember what a commitment means and that they were on this team first, and they weren't going to tell anyone what to do, but that they should be there. So then the Beta Club advisor said this was a huge deal and a very special ceremony and that they really needed to be there ... well, for Michael this was very stressful as to what to do. Jonathan and I told him he is going to his induction and not the game. Then I called his coach today (his coach is not the one who gave the commitment speech ... it was the other coach) - but I called his coach anyway and he tries to make it sound like Michael had gotten the speech all wrong. He said they were really talking about the boys on the team who were flunking off the team, etc which is a total lie!!! Now I was not there for the whole speech so I didn't have alot to go on, but I know this is not true. It floors me when people cannot admit or accept what they have done, but try to lie their way out of everything.

Our Little Mary

2007-12-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

So I got a call from a girl at church asking if Lindsey would be Mary in at the Ward Christmas Party. I said, I didn't know ... I would have to ask her and see what she said. It involves singing a solo, "Mary's Lullaby" and what else, I am not sure. So I asked her that night and she said she didn't think she could do that but she would think about it. Well, the next day at school, she told her teacher who is in our Ward. Sister Denton told her that she really needed to do this and that she would be so wonderful at it. So Lindsey came home from school and kept asking me if I had gotten the mail yet and said that the mail was here and I really needed to go get it. I was kind of brushing her off and finally she said, you really need to get the mail because I put my answer in the mailbox if I will be Mary or not. I went and looked and there was a note that said, Yes, I will be Mary in the play. It was really cute. So she has been practicing every day, and I am greatly anticipating the party to see if she can really get up in front of everyone and sing. Erin, bless her heart, has been practicing right along with Lindsey. She wants to do this so badly, but was not asked. I think she knows there is a chance Lindsey will not sing, and Erin will be ready to step right up and save the show! The day Lindsey gave her "answer", she made me call her teacher at home and tell her that she was going to do it. Her teacher said she would sit right in the front row and that pleased Lindsey. Saturday will tell all!!!

All Mid-West

2007-12-11T06:09:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, Michael auditioned for and made the All Mid-West Tennessee Honor Band. It is for 7-9th grades and he will be sitting third chair in the 2nd band. We are so excited about this! He will get to play where the Symphony plays, down in Memphis and I think the reason we are so happy is this is the first time he has been really excited about music. He sounded so good prior to his audition, and thought his audition went well. I think he owes it all to his first teacher ... that would be Briana!

He also tonight gets inducted into the Beta Club, which is a national honor club for middle school students. They have added more responsibilities to his Deacon Quorum Presidency calling ... and between that and all of his basketball/karate, etc. he is turning into quite the busy kid. I will be glad for a couple weeks off at Christmas.

Erin made her first basket! It was so fun to watch her, but more fun to watch her excitement. She is the point guard on her team and is doing such a good job.

Andrew is potty training - YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Lindsey started taking the bedwetting pill (actually nasal spray) and has not wet the bed or needed those overnight pants for about 2 weeks. She feels so good and we are thinking that by not buying those or diapers (those overnight pants are about 60 cents each!) that will be half of our car payment, which we have not done anything about yet. We are very slow moving people and need lots of time to mull this all over. Most likely, we will make a decision on what to do by the end of this week.

Think I'm Still in RI!

2007-11-29T09:50:00.000-08:00

I can never remember my blog name, so I go to Holly's and then click on myself to get here. However, I always first click on Rhode Island Wards because obviously, I still view myself as such! As long as we are here, I remember fairly well where we live and all, but when we are displaced, as in vacation, I barely remember which state we live in anymore! It is crazy!

Michael came into our room last night and you could tell he wanted to talk because he was putting off going to bed. So he comes out with, what do you do when a girl asks you if you want to go out (as in the middle school girlfriend/boyfriend thing.) Jonathan asked, why did someone ask you that, and yes, as a matter of fact, someone did. It was so cute! It is a girl drummer in his band, who is also into sports. I know who she is. Her name is May. So apparently, she asked him out, he said no thanks, and then she wrote him this note that explained she had thought he liked her, etc. He does kind of like her, but he thinks he cannot participate in any of this stuff until he is 16. He thinks he's basically not even "allowed" to like a girl until he's 16 -- and he is very obedient. Can't you (in church etiquette) still "go out" with someone if you don't really date -- or do you tell them they can't have anything to do with the opposite sex in any way until 16 - what exactly does this whole "16" thing mean? I'd love some insight because I think it's rather unrealistic. Can't you just talk on the phone a little and write some cute notes?

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-20T19:03:00.001-08:00

We are off to my parent's new home in North Carolina. Actually, we are not off yet ... will leave Wed around noon. I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving. We are excited to see where they live and to see my sister and her super cute kids, too. My sister has been in her new home for 6 years or something like that and we have never even been to it.

I really like the schools here. They get off the entire Thanksgiving week and the kids and I think it's really great!

Game 2

2007-11-06T13:05:00.000-08:00

Michael scored 2 points last night, but what a great 2 points they were. He faked someone out and then did some jump shot kind of deal for his basket. I believe I was the proudest mom there! Then the half ended and my boy, who was looking better than anyone out there, was not put back in until the last 5 minutes or so. I could not figure it out. Michael is a fantastic shooter and those guys out there shot and missed, shot and missed, etc. It went on like that forever and I kept thinking, put Michael back in! They ended up losing, and I think it was all the coach's fault.

He was then asked to dress for the varsity game. I think he thought he was going to play (which he didn't), but I thought it was more of a complimentary type of thing. So he sat the bench for the 2nd game, but I was just so thrilled because when he was playing, he looked so much more confident than last year. He looked like he belonged out there and last year he looked kind of lost.

Erin's coach called last night and she starts practice on Thursday. She is a pretty good player and it will be equally as fun to watch her play!

Grizzlies Game

2007-11-04T10:56:00.000-08:00

Michael scored 4 big points at his first bb game this season. He hit a 3 pointer and then must have gotten a foul shot for the last point. The 3 pointer was a buzzer shot,and he was just thrilled. I did not go to the game, but sure heard lots about it and I am thrilled for him.

Last night, the Navy Band played at the Grizzlies game and we did not all go because it was an 8 hours day (they had to be there really early), so Jonathan took Michael and the girls and I (and Andrew) spent the afternoon at a birthday party. We had fun but I think they had more excitement. They got a pass to pretty much go anywhere, so Michael got to go down to the court and was able to get some autographs. After the band was done playing, they got to go sit really close (which we never do, we always have the $5 tickets!) and Michael said it was the best day of his life. He was really cute talking all about it last night when they got home.

Your Spirited Child

2007-10-30T17:43:00.000-07:00

I just bought a new book called "Your Spirited Child" and I am very excited about it! I have only read the first chapter or two, but it perfectly describes Jenna and I think I will learn alot of better ways to deal with her so that I enjoy her more. I'll let you all know how it goes!

Books and More Books

2007-10-30T12:48:00.000-07:00

I had the funnest time ordering some music books for our family. I used to shop for music all the time when I was in college, but I don't remember the last time I music shopped. So, first of all, I bought Erin some piano books, easy arrangements of High School Musical and Hannah Montana ... her favorites. I think she is going to be so excited! I got Lindsey some books Alice recommended because I am going to start her on piano and thought it would be good if she and Erin were not in the same books. Then I got Michael patriotic trumpet music with the full orchestra cd accompaniment. He also got some fun trumpet Christmas duets, a jazz play along book with cd and Star Wars Trilogy with cd. I got myself some Disney piano books and an easy Christmas songs book, and I think something else but I can't remember now. They are all getting these for Christmas (with the exception of the Christmas music, which you do need prior to Christmas). I am just so incredibly excited about this!

A Crush on All

2007-10-30T11:35:00.000-07:00

I was sitting with Jenna's Primary class in sharing time on Sunday, and the row behind her is where Lindsey sits. There are three super cute boys in her class ... Jax, Tanner and Sam. I turned around for a minute and Tanner was pointing to Jenna and said, she likes me, you know. I said, what do you mean? He said, Jenna wants me to be her boyfriend and then Tanner piped in, no, Jax, Jenna told me she likes me, and then Sam said, Jenna likes me. Then they all got into this discussion about how Jenna said she wanted to kiss them on the lips and for them to be her boyfriend. They actually started having a little argument about this, who she liked more. All these boys are 6 and 7, and Jenna is 4. I could not believe this conversation for a couple of reasons: 1. Jenna is going around professing her love to these boys; 2. They like it. She obviously needs some close supervision.

New Calling

2007-10-29T09:00:00.001-07:00

Jonathan just got called as the 2nd counselor in the Bishopric. Do you know what that means? I will be sitting by myself with the munchkins in church. I'm going to have to revamp my whole Sacrament meeting philosophy. We were down to no toys, no notebooks, nothing ... just sit still, but I don't think I can handle both Jenna and Andrew by myself with nothing for them to do. Wish me luck!

Tagged?

2007-10-27T13:13:00.000-07:00

Hmmmmm .... 6 things no one knows that I would actually divulge ... Let me see.

1. I like kids better than adults. I sometimes think neighbors may think I'm a little loony and wonder my motives. I don't think I have serious social issues (of course, it's possible I may), but they are in general more interesting and more fun!

2. My least favorite thing to do in the world is fold white clothes. The only way I can do it is to tell myself I only have to do 10 items at one time. Really, that is about the only way I can clean the house, too ... I go into each room and just pick up 10 things and then move to another room. Eventually, I get to the cleaning phase (past the picking up) and then will only dust say one piece of furniture and I then go to another room. In general, though, 10 is my magic number. I also, when I fold clothes in general (which I do like except for whites), I fold first the clothes of the person I have the fondest feelings for that day -- so I will dig through and find all of their clothes and lovingly put them away. If you are on my bad list, your clothes get done last and put away not quite so lovingly.

3. I love to work and staying home is very hard for me. I do, however, want to go back to work soon and I am formulating some ideas on what exactly to do.

4. I am super duper unorganized and my bedroom is amazingly messy unless I know someone is coming over and I clean it, but to do that takes awhile!

5. I am addicted to candy. I pretend to eat healthy in public, but in private I would choose candy any day, any time, anywhere. It is a problem I am working on.

6. When I was in high school, we used to pool hop all the time. The point of that game is to sleep over someone's house and then sneak out in the middle of the night. You walk all over the neighborhood to people's houses who have pools and jump in and swim and try not to get caught. Of course, you do this with a group of people and not by yourself! When I was in college, we used to sneak into buildings late at night and figure out how to get onto the roofs. Some of them were quite challenging. I did get up to the crystal room in the Logan cave, and I'm proud of that, too.

7. I'll add #7 to my list. I read magazines and newspapers from the back to the front. I love to start on the very last page and work my way forward and I cannot enjoy either if I start it at the beginning. However, I can enjoy a book from the beginning to the end!

He's Not Even a Train!

2007-10-26T05:39:00.000-07:00

Jenna came home from school yesterday talking about a boy in her class who was so funny and so cute (she is really into boys being cute now). She went on and on about him and so I asked what his name was. She said, his name is Thomas, and "Mom, if you can believe it ... He's not even a train!"

Jenna often has me in tears ... either laughing or crying. She is so funny but is by far our hardest child yet. I told Jonathan this morning that I sometimes feel like packing up and just moving to an island all by myself and not telling anyone where I am -- and staying there for a couple of years until I can regain my sanity. He told me I sound like a Lifetime movie! The problem with Jenna is she gets stuck on an idea and won't get off of it. It's not like a fascination ... it's just stuck. She will be in trouble (which is all the time) and so I will say you need to go to bed and you don't get your story tonight, so she will wail over and over again ... "I want my story" and you can't reason or talk to her because she just looks right through you and goes on and on "I want my story" "I want my story" "I want my story", wailing like a broken record. She rages and destroys ... and then she turns around and melts my heart.

Yesterday morning it was about 50 degrees and at the bus stop, everyone was completely bundled up, including my children. I went out in my bare feet and pajamas and everyone was looking at me like I was nuts, but I explained I am a New Englander at heart and this weather did not even phase me. My girls, however, are now more like Tennesseeans. They even talk that way. They will say, "I'm FIXIN to go eat dinner" or "Y'all, do you want to ride bikes?" Even Michael has started to get into it a little bit.

Harry Potter

2007-10-24T07:19:00.001-07:00

So what do you think of the whole Harry Potter Dumbledore "coming out." I thought that was the most out of place, far reaching, stupid thing I have ever heard. Where is the world did that come from and that is a pretty wimpy thing to do -- wait until the end and then start spouting stuff like that!

FHE

2007-10-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

We had Family Home Evening last night and Erin gave the lesson on what to do if there is an earthquake. So after it was over, she asked Jenna, what do you do if you feel an earthquake. Jenna said, "Yell for your parents and then RUN FOR YOUR LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

First Visit ... No Success!

2007-10-24T07:05:00.001-07:00

Michael went out with our Bishop last night, just the two of them, to visit a boy who lives fairly close to us. His name is Parker and he is really cute! He just turned 12 and he and his mom are on our Ward list buy have never come to church. They are also in the military. Parker was on Michael's soccer team last year and we see them quite a bit if we are out walking and they are just a nice, nice family. Anyway, it would be a really nice friend for Michael to have in Young Men's since he about the only Deacon who is there on a regular basis and his friend, Andrew, who is 15 or so is moving this week and Andrew was the next person in age to Michael. Anyway, they had their appt made and he picked Michael up at about 7:00 pm. When they weren't home at 8:30 we were thinking well, they must be having the most awesome visit. When he got home, he was holding a Sonic ice cream cup (fast food) and I was confused, but it turns out Parker and his family were not home - blew off the appt so our Bishop took Michael and picked up another 12 yr old boy and they went and got ice cream instead. Bishop told Michael that you don't give up when someone isn't home, but you ponder it over ice cream! The other boy, James, was excited because his home teachers were there and he got to leave. Hmmmmm.... going out for ice cream or a visit with the home teachers ... obviously ice cream trumps all!

He Made It!

2007-10-24T06:06:00.001-07:00

Michael made the team again this year. I am happy for him because he really does work very hard and it is always such a goal of his to make the school team. Practices start today. Last year after his first practice, he came home asking if he could quit if he wanted to. I'll be curious to see how he acts after practice today. I have mixed feelings on it all. Nothing thrills me more than watching my children do well in something (like all of us) and I really enjoyed watching him play on the Baptist league last year. It was just such a positive environment. They started with prayer and prayed during half time for good sportsmanship, etc. The team all supported each other, even their worst players, and tried to pass them the ball and help them to succeed. I just felt uplifted after each game, but the school team was so about winning and it seemed like players were always trying to stab each other in back. But regardless, he is happy so I am happy for him. Now if he will only get some playing time ... that remains to be seen!

RE: Erin

2007-10-23T06:34:00.000-07:00

I am writing this for my own records, as after all, this is my journal. At Erin's conference, her teacher was very complimentary of her academic skills and discussed her potential for college scholarships. However, what she did advise was that it is important to be involved in activities, and not just be involved, but to have leadership positions. She shared that her son, though very gifted intellectually, talented in baseball and involved in clubs, did not have the leadership they were looking for ... and how many of his friends not as skilled or smart as he, received much more in scholarship funds. I kind of envision Erin not necessarily joining a club and seeking leadership but finding her own cause and building it up. Regardless, I wanted to write this and remember her wise words.

Did Well

2007-10-22T17:07:00.000-07:00

Michael feels like he played really well at his tryout today. Now I don't care about it at all -- if he makes it or not. I feel so happy for him that he feels he did a good job. That is what I wanted for him! He said it is the first time since he got on the team last year that he has been able to do something on the court.

Report cards came out today -- Michael, Erin and Lindsey got straight A's. I'm feeling rather proud.

PROGRAM IS DONE!!!

2007-10-22T06:19:00.001-07:00

Our Primary Program was yesterday and all in all, it was really good! The children did fantastic in their parts and songs. It was very hard on me to not try to take over the music part because of doing that for so long in Newport. Our chorister is wonderful so it is nothing with that ... it is just that it feels so natural to be on the music end and the whole other side feels so unnatural, so I want to go to my comfort zone so badly! You know there is always one child who has ants in their pants and that would be Jenna this year. She gets the prize. She first started messing with the light switches which I never realized were even there, and then during the last part of the program, for every song she got up and did this interpretive kind of dance -- kind of like half ballet, half something else because it didn't quite have the grace of a ballerina - there was a little more Jenna passion. Now in fairness to her, she did stay in the area of her seat for the most part. Her teacher tried to control her for a while and then finally gave up and I just stopped looking over her way because that is just Jenna!

Lindsey, for as shy as she is, volunteered to sing a duet part with one of her friends. She was a very big step for her and I was so proud of her growth. I'm learning you just can't push them but they're ready when they're ready, not necessarily when I want them to be ready.

I have a little file folder of notes I made this year about doing Primary programs in general and some things I would certainly change a little, but overall I thought it was a job well done ... and what a nice feeling to have it over!

MADE THE FIRST CUT

2007-10-20T11:22:00.001-07:00

I just happened to click on his school website and the 1st cut list was on there and he gets to go back on Monday. I am very happy for him and feel thrilled he will get a chance to play again feeling better this time. So for any of you who read this, please send a prayer his way. He just wants to go out there and show them what he can really do.

The tryouts ... poor kid!

2007-10-19T06:17:00.000-07:00

Michael had his basketball tryouts yesterday and the poor kid was so sick. In the morning on the way to school he said his throat hurt, so after dropping him off, I went back home and got some throat drops and advil and brought it up to him. I asked the school nurse if it was okay if I left the advil and she said, no ... that they were not allowed to give it. To which I then asked, if I wait here until he comes to the office, can I give it to him? She said, that yes I could so when he came, I gave him the bag of advil and drops. I didn't realize that meant I had to physically put it in his mouth. He said after I left, he had gotten one down and she came and confiscated the second. But to no avail ... it had worn off anyway by the time the tryouts had started. He felt just awful. When he came home, he went right to bed and had a high temperature and I felt so bad for him. I wanted to call the coach and say, you need to take into account that Michael is really sick, but Jonathan said, NO WAY and so I didn't do anything. Then I wanted to email him and tell him but again I didn't do anything. It took an abundance of self control! So he said he did okay in the drills, missed both layups, and then in the scrimmage he didn't get the ball once. If he makes the first cut, he will have another shot on Monday (they find out on Monday) but if not, it's over for him. I hope he gets another chance, but if not, that's okay. It's so sad to think of your child out there so sick and having to perform like that. Poor kid! But as he tells me, "Mom, I'm not a baby anymore!"

I took the girls to the circus yesterday afternoon along with a couple of their friends. It came to the base and it was very good! I really want to go to Ringling Bros. and it probably wasn't quite that caliber but I give it a big thumbs up! They even brought in elephants and they did this elephant train and it was great! The acrobats were wonderful -- trapeze artists were great, too. They had these hula hoopers and they were doing about 20 hoops at once. Someone just kept throwing them over their head and they would take on that hoop, too, and they could get the ones on the ground and get it up with their foot and add it to the pile. That was fascinating to me! On the way back to the van (we parked rather far away), I was telling all the kids to hurry because I wanted to get out of there before we were stuck in traffic. This was for two reasons: It was getting dark and I had to bring one girl home on a very dark country road, and second, because a storm was coming and with the way I drive, I didn't want to be stuck with other people's children on my car. My kids are used to it but it may freak out another child if I had to stop and get myself together before driving further. So I was saying, hurry, hurry, hurry to get to the car. My kids did great, but you could tell the other two were not used to being with a neurotic person and didn't quite get the idea behind this rushing! So after we got home (safely) the storm did hit and it was a bad, bad one! There were tornado watches for a couple of hours and the winds were crazy! I'm truly glad I was not out in it because you couldn't even see.

Andew Used the Potty!

2007-10-17T07:18:00.001-07:00

Yesterday when I picked Andrew up from his MDO program, they said he had used the potty! Maybe this will be the start of something great!

Basketball Time Again!

2007-10-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Michael's school basketball tryouts. I can't believe a whole year has passed since the last tryouts. I remember last year, I called the school and asked if he had made the first cut (because I couldn't stand now knowing). The secretary looked for his name and said no, so I was all ready to console him about this. He called that afternoon and said he had to stay for the 2nd round and I didn't want him to know I had called but didn't want him to make a fool of himself by showing up when he hadn't made it. So I discreetly said, Michael, I think your name has to be on that list to come back today. Did you check it and see your name on there? To which he replied that there were two Michael Wards in 6th grade who had tried out so as to not confuse them, they came and told him in person that he was to come back.

It is hard because there will be about 100 boys trying out for about 5-7 slots - so I guess if he makes it, that is fine but if he doesn't, that's okay too. There are lots of places here for him to play if he doesn't get on the school team. I'll just be glad when the tryouts are over. I don't remember getting all worked up when I was in school and the one trying out for things but with my kids, I about can't stand it!

If he does make it, however, we will be much smarter this year and force them to have the study hall they promised instead of having those boys sit in the locker room for an hour waiting for their practice. All those middle school boys sitting unsupervised in a locker room for an hour is nothing but bad new!.

The thing I love about Michael is that he is so diligent. He just does what he is supposed to do and he never quits. When I think of "endure to the end" I think of him because he doesn't make monumental progress, but he continually plugs away and keeps making incremental progress in all that he chooses to do. He is a very good example to me.

I'm in 4th Grade for Crying Out Loud!

2007-10-16T19:32:00.000-07:00

I bought Erin a shirt at Kohls that she was so excited to wear. I dress her pretty conservatively and this shirt is a little more on the wild side. It is leopard print and then looks like there is a little jacket attached but it is really part of the shirt. The jacket part has a hood in the back and that part is turquoise. It's long sleeve and it has been so hot so she has not been able to wear it yet. She has shown all her friends this shirt and they just love it, too, and this has made the anticipation of wearing it even greater. This morning it was chilly so Erin was so excited and asked if today could be the day. She found this brown skirt she also wanted to wear and a pair of clogs - so she put the outfit together and it did look a little floozy-like but it wasn't that bad -- she was really excited and so I let it go. Jonathan came into the kitchen and said that he didn't care for what she was wearing and was I going to let her go to school like that. Erin got mad and out came a rather sassy attitude, and she said, "Dad, I'm not little any more. I'm in the 4th grade FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!" So Jonathan asks her what "for crying out loud" meant and she said, I don't know but I think it's what you say when you're mad!

It cracked me up because I don't believe I have ever said that, though I can remember my mom saying that quite a bit. But she did win the war and wore her creation. I believe everyone needs a little freedom of expression!

Little Mermaid on Broadway

2007-10-15T06:57:00.000-07:00

I just saw recently that The Little Mermaid is on Broadway. I have never been to a Broadway show, but I would go to this one if we lived even remotely near New York. Or if my parents even lived there ... darn them! Oh well, maybe eventually it will branch off and tour major cities, but I would so love to go. They also just had Time out for Women in Hartford this year. It seems like when you leave an area, all the really neat stuff comes!

SHOPPING EARLY THIS YEAR!

2007-10-15T06:08:00.001-07:00

Jonathan and I have decided to get all of our Christmas shopping done very early this year, as in by the end of October. I have to say we are doing very well! Michael is done. Erin/Lindsey/Jenna are half way there - and Andrew is only getting one thing so that will be easy. Three presents each PLUS a couple of books. The one thing they are getting as a family gift is that Settlers of Catan game (thanks alot Sheila!) that Michael has been dying for and then the first two seasons of Different Strokes - with Arnold. I think the kids would love it! That show cracks me up! along with the 4th season of Cosby Show (had 3rd last year) and 2nd season of Dukes of Hazzard. I have to say that I completely do not enjoy sitting down with the kids and watching any tv show. Now late at night when they are in bed, Jonathan and I like a good episode of Law and Order, but not with the kids. I don't really like watching movies either because they are so long and I usually fall asleep if I'm sitting down for that long .. plus who has 2 hours all the time to sit - so these 1/2 hour episodes are perfect for this and they are just so funny! So now it comes down to ... if we never watch tv and I hate the shows that are on and I am having to buy all these dvd's of old tv shows, is it worth having cable? That is the question of the day! We got Satellite tv for Michael when we got here so he could watch more sports when his thoughts were so bad, but we hardly ever watch tv at all. I do LOVE having it at conference, though, and would dread the thought of going up to the church, but you can at least listen on the internet.

And, I am contemplating buying myself an old Atari system with Pacman, Centipede, Space Invaders, etc. I don't think playing video games for hours at a time is good, but I think it is a little fun to sit down and play with the kid. The problem is I truly do not understand the new game systems. I don't get all those fancy controllers. I am a simple minded person! So going retro just may be the thing to do!