The Talbot Family

Corneal abrasion Continuation

2011-11-10T15:29:00.000-08:00

Fast forward another week from my last post. I put in my contacts and wear them for a week, ready to put that horrible experience behind me. I start feeling some pain again. Now in my other eye. Are you kidding me? I know exactly what it is but in denial. The pain is horrific but since I already have meds from the other eye I start putting in drops which the doctor said helped heal faster. I went to the specialist and sure enough, I have a corneal abrasion in my other eye! What are the chances? They think from after 20 years of contact wear and tear, my eyes are just giving out. So dissappointed! So what's my next thought? When can I get LASIK. As soon as my eye heals in about a month, they respond. Now I have to suffer with glasses for a month. How can they be so cruel!

Corneal abrasion

2011-11-02T21:41:00.000-07:00

Remember in 2010 I had a major ear infection. Of course, you don't remember...cliff notes are I had a really bad ear infection for 10 days and have lost some of my hearing because of it. Well, I now have a corneal abration in my left eye. What is wrong with me? I'm too young to be having issues with my body. On Saturday, I woke up to a pain in my eye around 4am. I went back to sleep but woke up at a decent hour and called the optometrist. My optometrist is not opened on Saturdays so I called the only one that is opened (and in my network). He saw me first thing. Not a good idea to drive myself to the doctors (Paul was in Texas). It was only 2 miles away but with a squinty eye I just hoped that my periferal vision in my right eye would not lead me astray. The optometrist told me I had a corneal abrasion, a scratch on my corneal. How I got it? Don't know. He gave me a contact lense to protect it, like a bandaid and gave me antibiotics. He wanted to see me on Sunday. I was okay on Saturday. Indoors was better than going outside and the night was my friend as I could fully open my eyes. I went to the closing social with the Japanese Student and all seemed well. We took everyone to a Haunted House in Cedar Hills and my eyes started acting up again. Paul was on his way home from Texas and so I texted him that I was going to bed and couldn't wait up for him. A minute later I wrote that I need a priesthood blessing. When he came home around midnight, he and Chad Ellis gave me a blessing.

Sunday I woke up and it was worse. I had to remove the contact even though I could barely open my eyes. The sunlight KILLED my eye. Paul drove me to the doctor. It still hadn't healed like he hoped it would. He gave me his cell number and told me to call if it didn't get better. A couple hours later he called and said he can't get me out of his mind and thinks I need to go to the ER and to a specialist. Being a Sunday, we have to go to the ER. He shows Paul the large cut in his magnified machine which Paul describes as the shape of Japan. I also have 2 more cuts to the side of it. They prescribe me a stronger antibiotic and Lortab. To avoid the pain, I just have kept my eyes closed and slept. I can't watch TV or look at a computer screen and it's hard to read so I just lay there with my iphone and listen to the mormon channel. The only time I opened my eye was when they put a numbing drop in my eye at the doctors and ER lasting 15 minutes.

Monday morning I go see the opthomologist. The cut has now healed but my eyes are really red and the blood vessels are working really hard to heal the eye. It is tender and sensitive to light. He dilates my eyes to give me some relieve. Perfect for Halloween...dilated pupils, red eyes and swollen. I thought of being a pirate for Halloween or a vampire because I would come alive at night when the sunlight was gone. Instead I was just 4-eyed Plain Jane. The laughing stalk of those around me.

Wednesday I go to the opthomologist again. I have a scar from where it has healed. A good sign except I my vision may have changed. I won't know that for a month or so. I'm not out of the neck yet. My eyes are still fighting and so he prescribed a steriod. Yikes! Will I grow chest hair? I'll let you know how it grows, I mean goes (He-He). Now I have to wear glasses for a week more or so and no makeup. All natural! Lasik and/or Permanent eyelashes sound so good right now!

Stilleto Sprint

2011-10-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

(DeLonne, Brandalee, Lareen, Mom, DeLayne, Audralyn and me in our stilletos and pink hair!)

My sister, Audralyn, lives in Texas. They had their first annual Stilleto Sprint last year in September right when DeLayne was diagnosed with cancer. So she thought it would be wonderful if we all could go out there, a year later, for the second annual Stilleto Sprint. Of course it was a long shot but guess what? We all could go, 5 sisters and mom, and flew out the 2nd week of September.

I, of course, had to fly Jet Blue on the red eye. Funny story...you would think that I would know airports/airplanes are cold because I fly more often but I had in my head that Houston is HOT and humid. So I didn't pack a jacket. While on the plane ride to JFK I was cold and wanted to sleep but couldn't because I was cold (and those darn blankets now cost money!!) So when everyone besides me was asleep, I slipped my hands inside my short-sleeve shirt and slept. Funny thing is when I went to sleep it was dark but when I woke up it was light and everyone was awake so I hurried and pulled my hands out. Embarrased, NO! but I'm sure the people besides me thought I was a dork!

When I got to Texas, we went to a wonderful Mexican restaurant. Delicioso! We then headed to Woodland Hills to spend the night (about an hour away). The next morning we woke up early and got all dallied up in our pink tutus and pink hair. We all looked so cute. The sprint races (it was about 50 yard race) did not last long but it sure was fun. I would love to start one here in Utah. The best were the men in their stilletos. Some of those men sure can get competitive.

After the race, we headed over for shopping. We had a little incident with the Texas police...Put it this way...a few Bluth girls in your face is not a good thing. The cop was not pleased with us and I was a little disappointed in my sisters behavior. Enough said. Feelings got hurt but all is well. We ended the day by ordering famous Texas BBQ and watching the BYU. Unfortunately, we did not win.

Church was the next day. We sang "Abide with my Tis Eventide." If you are a Bluth, you sing. I never like to sing in public 1) I didn't get the talent my sisters have and 2) I don't like to be the center of attention. But I did it for my sister both DeLayne and Audralyn. The song has deep meaning and emotional for us. Audralyn is the primary chorister so we had some fun with (using a phone to call in the songs, superhero "twin" sister.)

My flight didn't leave until Monday afternoon. So I was able to hang out with Audralyn and my adorable niece Eva. She is the sweetest girl ever! I loved spending time with Audralyn. I love my sister in Texas. I wish she lived closer.

Fun time with sisters. I love my sisters and glad mom could join us for some fun memories.

Labor Day Weekend

2011-10-25T14:32:00.000-07:00

The whole gang-Packers, Gammons, Talbots

So I have a group of women I walk with every morning. We call it exercise but I call it my "free therapy". Not that I have many problems, but is sure is nice to talk about things with others. I really love these women. They are wonderful women and mothers, a great example to me, and lots of fun. One of the women grew up in Koosharem, UT. Even growing up in UT I have never heard of it (It is a tiny town with limited cell phone coverage). Jennifer and I had nothing to do over Labor Day so we invited ourselves and went to their cabin. It was a fun weekend. We caught crawdads, feed the fish, went fishing (everyone caught at least one fish), shooting guns, and went to church where 90% were in jeans and tshirts. A very different experience. I think the highlight was riding the tractor in the bucket. Such fun memories! Becky, you are so invited next time!!

Catching crawdads with hot dogs.

This is the meetinghouse for church service on Sunday. Over 1000 people were in attendance and they even passed the sacrament! I was impressed. They then had a testimony people where most people started by saying "I grew up here..." We are hoping to someday say " We have been coming here for years for Labor Day..." :)

Linda's dad owns a fish farm. We went and feed the fish this morning. The fish were jumping and splashing as we feed them their pellet food. It was quite a sight.

Fishing or I should say Catching. Everyone caught at least one fish from the pond and they were large fish. We took some home and fried them up. Delicious!!

I think the best part was the tractor ride. All the kids are in the bucket and he took them up high and low and even tilted. They were screaming with delight.

Mary Poppins

2011-10-25T14:22:00.000-07:00

Our school was having a special sale on Mary Poppins at Capital Theater. I didn't have any desire to go but for $20 each (it was buy one get one free). I decided to go and take my 2 daughters. It was completely magical. As I sat there and watched, it made me realize that everything I need to learn about parenthood/motherhood comes from Mary Poppins...

Have fun while working ("Spoonful of sugar"-In every job, there is an element of fun)

Service ("Feed the birds")

Stop and enjoy life ("Let's go fly a kite")

Be happy and make others happy ("Jolly Holiday")

Mary Poppins was amazing and I loved Bert. Wouldn't it be nice to have a Mary Poppins with all of us? When Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious started I was a little disappointed because it was different but by the end it was my favorite!!! Amazing and fun choreography. And when Bert climbed the edge of the stage to the top upside-down...WoW! I also loved when Mary Poppins flew out. We happened to be sitting right there where she flew to and it felt like she was coming to me. I know cheesy but it did bring a tear to my eye. LOVED IT! I hope I can be more like Mary Poppins.

Summer activities

2011-10-16T11:25:00.000-07:00

This summer has been my favorite so far. We didn't go anywhere (except for Idaho) but explored Utah and loved it!

This is how our weeks went throughout the summer:

Swimming at AF pool twice a week

Alpine park (best park ever!!) twice a week

PG lake and/or Cedar Hills park once a week

Obviously we were outside every day. We always met up with cousins at each event either swimming, or at the park, or at the lake. In July, the Allens came to visit for 3 weeks and we loved it. We did so much with the Allens while they were here...swimming, boating, timp cave, Stadium of Fire, Seven Peaks. I have to say something about Seven Peaks. I am not a fan. Too much money, you have to pay to park plus more for tubes, and you can't bring in any food. Well, reluntantly I went because I had free passes. It rained around 5pm and everyone (no joke EVERYONE) left. It only rained for about 15-20 minutes but they had to wait to make sure that no lightening was in the area. Of course we stayed, we always are the last ones to leave seven peaks. About 30 minutes later, they reopened the park and we had it all to ourselves. We went from ride to ride. The rides were so fast that my sister, Audralyn, and I would leave our 3 year olds at the bottom of the ride and go up to the top and meet them a few minutes later. It was a blast! The best experience I have had at Seven Peaks ever!

At the end of July, we had our Chinese students for 3 weeks which is always a treat. Last year it was really hard because I had some difficult students but this year was awesome! They were so respectful and fun to be with. I love inviting them into my homes, even though I think it is hilarious that they come to Utah for a "American experience" with Mormon families.

We went boating periodically throughout the summer with the Allens, Prattes and Hucks. Went to Yuba Lake (which has to be a tradition now...great place for camping and boating and it is close!). Had a Talbot family reunion at the end of August and celebrated our 15 year anniversary (hopefully we can go on our planned vacation...if Paul's work slows down, not complaining at all, glad he is busy). And I had a miscarriage in the middle of the summer. Other than bleeding for 5 weeks (I know this may be TMI), it was a fanastic summer!!

Stadium of Fire. One of my most favorite thing is the after party after Stadium of Fire. It's in the cougar room and they feed us and then we don't have to wait for the traffic. Just a perk for having my dad on the Freedom Board.

Most of the grandkids after the 4th of July parade. What a bunch!

We weren't planning on hiking this day but just hang around Sundance but last minute we went to Stewarts Falls. It's not a hard hike or long (about 2 miles) but with flip flops it was hard and long! Our feet were filthy! Fun times!

The kids took hours to build this jacuzzi. The sisters would just sit in the shade and talk.

Talbot reunion at Warm River, ID. Kids loved floating the river but it ain't warm!

Russ and Michele's wedding-First event of the summer

2011-10-15T13:46:00.000-07:00

I wrote this post in June but finally attached some pictures so I have reposted it so you can see with the pictures. Enjoy!

Bride and Groom w/family

Russ and Michele are married! On June 4th, Paul's brother finally married the girl he has been dating, off and on, for 5 years. We all wanted him to marry her, it just took him a little bit longer to figure it out. It was very exciting and I even got to help out with some of the wedding decisions which was pretty cool for me. I think I might become a wedding planner (totally kidding, I've seen bridzella, what a nightmare!).

The first thing I was asked to do was to help with the invitations. They had all the colors and designs picked out but I recommended a place here that saved them a lot of money. The owner is a friend of mine (PG Printers, if anyone is in need of invitations). When I got there I didn't realize that I had to choose the paper. Very stressful for me because I was choosing for some one else. I think they liked my choice.

I was able to help with the bridal shoot. We went to a place in Lehi behind "Nooks and Crannys" that doesn't charge and has a lot of places to take cool pictures. All the pictures turned out gorgeous!

I'm not sure how I got involved in everything but suddenly I am looking for ties, hairbows, bridesmaid dresses, flowergirl dresses, jewelry for the bridesmaid. It was so much fun! I found ties at a place in Fashion Place Mall. I brought my mom and sisters knowing they can help me in finding a good tie. We found a tie that we all loved. Everything had to be send via text or email. I sent a picture to Michele and I don't think she loved them so I bought one, put it on Paul, as my model, with a good camera to show the colors and send it to her. Russ and Michele's sister loved them so I bought them a couple days later.

Paul is my model to show Michele to see if she likes the tie. Russ loved it!

I found the hairbows from a neighbor who sells them to stores like Roberts, Michaels, etc. This is the best story. Michele had a certain green she wanted, not a forest green or a lime green but more a grass green. I looked all over for the specific color and found green hairbows at Robert's. After confirming that the color was what she liked, I went to my friend and asked him if he had any hairbow that color green. He said "Those are my hairbows and I can get you as many as you need for $1 each" Yippee! I was so happy because I knew I would not find 18 hairbows at one store and I did not want to go all over Utah finding them. We put 2 on a headband for each of the flower girls and 1 for each of the bridesmaid.

The flower girl dresses were easy because we just used my sister's from a few years ago. They were creme and we accented them with green. We had all the sizes we needed. Flower girl dresses checked off.

Cousins in the flower girl dresses. Don't you love the cute hairbows?!?

Bridesmaid dresses were a little bit harder. Eventually we just went with a simple black dress and yellow shoes (her colors were yellow and green). I found a necklace that had yellow and green, pearl bracelets and pearl earrings. Another cool story with the earrings. So we were looking for jewerly one Saturday, Michele in Vegas and I here in Utah. We would text pictures of jewerly we found to see if we liked. This went on all day. I found the bracelets but could not find earrings I liked to go with the ensemble. I went to Kohl's as one of my last stops towards the end of the day. I found the perfect earrings but they only had 2, I needed 5 so I asked them if they could call other stores. One store in Salt Lake had 3 more but then I thought why not have them call their Las Vegas stores which they did. The store had 5 and they put them on hold. I texted Michele and told her to pick them up. She was about 5 minutes away and she loved them plus they gave her a discount even though she didn't have any coupons. I love Kohl's!

What was the most fun was planning the bachelorette party. Paul was doing a bachelor party for Russ with his friends and I wanted Michele to have a fun night the last night she is single. Her sisters came and we ate and played fun games. One game was asking Russ questions and Michele had to guess his answers. They have known each other for 5 years, she should have gotten everyone right! Each one she got right, she got to pick a present. We had good presents and pranks-like presents (lotions, pregnancy test, her favorite candy, mints, etc). My favorite was large underwear/lingerine. Just something we give to family getting married. Lots of Laughs. The other game was questions I asked to all the sisters (and me) about marriage, relationships, tips and suggestions. It was a lot of fun!

Of course, you have to have large underwear at a bachlorette party. You should have seen her face as she was opening it up. It was priceless. She told me later that she thought it was the ugliest thing and didn't know how to tell me she didn't like it but soon realized it was a gag gift. So much fun!

The wedding was beautiful. I love weddings. I love live sealings. It reminds me of my wedding day (so nervous, so young, so lucky). It is so good to hear the ceremony again and all the great advice from the sealer. One thing I remember from the sealer is he said to hold hands often even in public (if you know me I do not like PDA) because it then says to You Belong to Me. I am trying to do that more now. Then it was pictures and a luncheon at the Northampton House. Then they were off onto their honeymoon.

The tradition Just Married on the car except I added FINALLY. :)

Sunday night we get a call wondering if they could open their presents. It was fun for the kids to help them. Then they wanted Paul and I to come to their cabin at Sundance and spend the night. I thought they were kidding but they weren't. So we had my mom and sister watch the kids and we crashed their honeymoon. Wierd? Not at all. They practically have been married for years. It was a lot of fun and lots of wonderful memories!

MIA

2011-10-12T11:14:00.001-07:00

I feel like I have been "missing in action" since I haven't written on my blog for months. I took the summer off (more to post later) and now have been in the thick of activities with my kids. I started to panic towards the end of the summer because the kids were going back to school and I was worried I would have too much time on my hands. I didn't know what I was going to do to fill that "extra" time. I decided to volunteer more at the school and then I got a teaching job at the dance studio my kids attend. Now I am busier than ever! Volunteering 2 times at the school, dance class 2 times a week, dance class for each daughter, piano lessons, helping out with Paul's work, homework each night, and all other mother/homemaker chores, you could see why I have been MIA. Extra time, what extra time?!?

So I may not blog all the time but hopefully enough to write down my thoughts and document events in my family life for keepsake. It is my journal and I know I will be so glad to have it.

I may have to back track and tell about all the adventures in the summer. It was a wonderful summer!

Sunset, Mt Timpanogos Temple, Photography Class

2011-08-04T22:51:00.001-07:00

So my wife said I need to get my own blog but before I do, I figured I'd grace her blog with a couple of cool sunset photos. Some of the sunsets have been pretty amazing this summer. I've run up to the temple several times trying to get the perfect shot. I'm still a rookie with the Canon, so exposure, shutter speed, etc is all new to me. While I was up there getting this shot, I noticed I wasn't alone and someone was trying to get their perfect shot too. He had gone up to the fence surrounding the temple property to shoot through it and even though I wanted the top of the fence as my border, I had to raise my camera a bit to avoid having him in the frame. Some of the shots, I just had to wait for him to move. Come to find out, it was a friend from my old ward who happens to be a pro. These shots were taken from the back of his truck that he had pulled over to the side of the road. I got it nice and steady. Anyway, he showed me a few pointers and I confessed to him I was a rookie. I also told him I needed to take a class. Coincidentally, he said he teaching one in a month or two! Can't wait for that class... should be in September sometime. It's amazing how the shots differ as the moments pass and the sunset transforms itself. I like these two because they were both taken shortly after the temple lights came on. I took photos of another sunset about a month earlier and it had deeper reds and oranges. This ones kinda pink which my wife says she doesn't like as much. Oh well, by the way the other sunset is found on my new blog: sevendoubleyou.blogspot.com. I may just post them here as well since Charalece likes them.

The Living Christ

2011-05-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

In December, the stake young women challenged all of the youth and leaders to memorize The Living Christ. We would work on it for 4 months, starting in December and ending in April (Christ's birth to Christ's death and resurrection). I knew it would be challenging for all especially for me because lately I have had a hard time memorizing things. But, I knew "All things are possible with Christ, which strenghtens me". I would take a paragraph a week and memorize it. It got harder as I went on but I persevered.
The week of Easter, we went up to Temple Square and recited it in front of the Christus. It was an unforgettable experience. Such power was present and the Holy Ghost testified to all there the truthfulness of the words we were speaking. I am so glad I did it. It was a huge accomplishment. I learned so much about the Savior from the words of The Living Christ. I am grateful for my Savior and all that he has done for me. One of my favorite lines is "He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come."

We bleed blue...

2011-05-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

Who else to go to the Spring Blue/White game but the Talbot's in freezing cold weather?! We are true die hards. Of course, we went to Pizza Pie Cafe and spoiled the kids with all you can eat pizza and dessert. I love BYU!

April Fools

2011-04-22T14:07:00.000-07:00

I think one of my favorite holidays is April Fools. April Fools is right below Christmas (and I mean very close second). If we got presents on April Fools, it would be at the top. This year I did not hold back at all. First, we put a For Sale sign on our front lawn. I know, not that original, but I did get some worried and sad neighbors. It was going to be a great day! I then went to my neighbors and seran wrapped her kitchen and toilet. I left a stuffed coyote (long story) in her garage entry. The coyote made everyone jump, even the Dad. Happy, happy day! I then did the samething to my next door neighbor. She was home all day so I only had about 15 minutes but I still was able to seran wrap her kitchen island and table and the toilets. I was on cloud 9. We went to a ward party and Paul banned me from doing any pranks (I agreed with him, it was a tougher crowd). When we came home our house was T.P. and they did a FANATASIC job. I got it good! It seemed that all my neighbors contributed a roll of toilet paper and/or watched the spectacle of T.P.ing the Talbot's. I was jumping up and down. It felt so good to show the love and receive the love in return. It was a wonderful, perfect day. Until next year...

This is what we came home to

This pic was the next morning

Wife of the week or decade?

2011-04-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Have you caught Jimmer fever? Paul's cousins go to the Mountain West Conference Tournament every year. They invite Paul every year. He has never gone so I thought now is the time. So, I coordinated with his cousin to get tickets for Paul. There were no tickets to be found. The only place was BYU but you had to be a cougar member. My dad is so I was able to purchase the tickets (all 11 of them). Hooray for me except I didn't think about when we got the credit card bill and Paul might notice a large charge from BYU tickets. I would check the mail every day. Of course, the day it comes, I missed it. Paul asked me what is this bill for $110 from BYU. I didn't know I said (that is the truth, I knew what the $2000 amount was for but not the $110). I told him I would look into it. I snatched that bill and hid it. If he would have looked on the back it, he would have seen the large amount (the $110 was a refund because they had overcharged us..Whew). I was able to keep it a secret until the day before and the only reason I told him then was so he could finish any loose ends from work. I was sooooo excited to tell him. I've never seen a grown man cry over BYU (j/k it just was a tear or two).

He carpooled with his cousins and had a wonderful time sitting through ALL the games. He did get sick but still screamed and cheered for BYU. They did so good and loved watching Jimmer. The highlight was the 52-shot game by Jimmer. A game that will go down in history. So the question is Am I the wife of the week or the decade?

Paul saw Jimmer's brother, TJ, in the crowd and snatched a picture with him. So cool! This is as close as it gets to Fredette's blood. Really great brother.

Ernest Edward Martinez

2011-03-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

In front of his Grandma Sophie's home with his sister and brother

My husband is half Mexican. No one believes me because he does not look Mexican (except when he tans). His father was Ernest Martinez but his parents got a divorce when he was 2 and was eventually adopted by his dad, Randy Talbot, many years later. Paul did not have a relationship with Ernie for many years (about 15). He contacted him the year we were engaged because he was working in California but nothing came of it. After 5 years ago, Ernie called us up and wanted to come visit us. It was slow going but Paul and Ernie ended up having a good relationship over these past 5 years. Ernie suddenly passed away on March 17th. It was a surprise to all since he was in good health and relatively young (68). This sudden passing taught me never to take life for granted and to not have regrets. Our last conversation with Ernie was about Kailene's baptism. We wanted him to come but because of past feelings from other members of family, we felt it might not be appropriate, yet. So we let him know he was welcomed and we hoped one day that we could all be in the same room together. He understood and apologized for his past mistakes saying he was "knucklehead" but what gives him hope is when he reads in Alma about Alma the younger. He said if Alma can change, so can he.
Now we have just memories, few yet they are important and I am filled with gratitude that we had a relationship with him and that forgiveness was present.

We flew down and watched the BYU game with some dear friends. We spent the night with Sharon, Ernie's wife. It was nice to talk to her about him and even have some unanswered questions addressed. The funeral was nice. Paul spoke and pretty much gave the basics to our religion since the majority of the audience were not members (Ernie was the only member). He did a fantastic job. He also dedicated the grave which was beautiful. I am grateful for the knowledge of the plan of salvation, the atonement, and the resurrection. Life will go on after this life and we will see our loved ones again. Christ overcame death because of the resurrection. I am grateful for my testimony of the resurrection.

Picture taken at the stop light

We had some down time before our flight so we went to the LA temple. Wished we had more time to go through a session but instead we just ate dinner in the temple (Paul's favorite date). That temple is prime location. It is magnificient as you drive to it. The Visitor Center is really wonderful too.

Missionary youth conference

2011-03-29T12:21:00.000-07:00

I have wanted to do a missionary experience for the youth for a long time. Finally, the time was right and the leaders put together (in 2 weeks!) a missionary youth conference. Because I had the ideas and asked other wards what they did, I was in charge. It was a huge project. I ate, slept and even dreamt about this missionary conference. It was a huge undertaking but I had wonderful leaders to help and a very supportive bishopric.

Each youth were called on a mission, paired up with a companionship and assigned to a district. They received a handbook filled of rules and guidelines. Choosing a companionship was much more difficult than anticipated. It became a very spiritual experience for those involved. We did ask a lot of these youth and, like always, they stepped up and took it seriously and rose to the occasion.

One of my favorite nights was when they went "tracking". We gave the youth a list of members from the ward and they needed to find their "golden family". The youth did not like to be rejected and when you asked the families, they didn't like to slam the door on them either. The ward members impressed me with their acting abilities.

The highlight for me was the testimony meeting. Each youth has the opportunity to go into a ward members home and teach them the first lesson that missionaries teach about the restoration and Joseph Smith. Our youth have such powerful testimonies. Our church is in good hands with these youth. At the end, the bishop released them which was extremely touching. Our bishop is emotional but this seemed different. For a couple of minutes, he couldn't get his bearings and it was complete silence. The Spirit was unrestrained and undeniable. A moment I will never forget.

Carl Bloch exhibit

2011-03-10T09:10:00.000-08:00

I took my Young Women to the Carl Bloch exhibit at BYU. BREATHTAKING! It was a perfect activity. We rented the ipads which brought on a whole new experience. I am amazed at the talents of so many people. Talents that affect so many lives. Carl Bloch had an amazing talent that brings people closer to Christ. I aspire to have a talent like that. Here are my thoughts and feelings of that night...

Doubting Thomas: Faith vs Doubt-Do we have to see Christ to believe? You can not have faith and doubt. Believe is one of my favorite words because it encompasses so much-hope, peace, faith. The Spirit has testified of so many truths for me to doubt. I am struck by his shame by his lack of faith.

Gethsemane: This act alone was the single most important event in the history of human existence. "HIs life was to atone for the signs of all mankind" (Quoted from The Living Christ). This depiction of Christ suffering in Gethsemane closes the gap between an infinite suffering vs human suffering. HIs suffering was unbearable for a human being but Christ was infinite. Yet it still was harder than even He anticipated and in Luke 22:43 it states "an angel...strengthen[ed] him.

Pool of Bethesda: What is so remarkable about this picture is those that need to be healed wait by the pool. They are in close proximity, almost knowing that it is within reach. What the question is are they healed by the pool in front of them or by turning to the Savior to be healed?

Become as a little child: Here Christ is reminding us to be like little children "submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to his Father" (Mosiah 3:19). I also love how tenderly he is with other hand holding the child face. It almost is a protective touch, reminding me to take care of His children on earth. How much He loves the little children.

Come Unto Me: My favorite picture. There are many people in this picture that brings up points of discussion...the man leaning upon him for comfort, support and healing. The man resting on him as if seeking refuge and peace. The man in the back hesitating as if not feeling worthy. This pictures has a way to draw your attention to his eyes and his outstretched arms. Come unto Christ.

Kailene's birthday and baptism

2011-02-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

Kailene has turned 8. I wish my kids didn't grow up. Soon they will be gone. The thought makes me sad. It is a big, exciting birthday for her. We had a birthday party for her with her friends and went swimming. Lots of fun.

She got baptized at the end of January. She was the only one in the ward so it was really personal for her. Grandma Bluth and Grandma Talbot spoke at her baptism. The kids sang a song and Brad played the violin. Lots of family filled our house to celebrate afterwards. For FHE we had a lesson on baptism. I asked Kailene if she had a testimony. She bore her testimony for us and we all bore our testimonies to each other. It was a wonderful FHE. She is such a sweet daughter, already very senstive. She is thoughtful and kind. We are so proud of her.

New Year's Resolutions

2011-01-06T07:17:00.000-08:00

Every year I have written down New Year's Resolutions. Things I want to improve on, make better, work on, etc. And like most everyone else, I end up not doing them. This year I have decided to choose something every day and work on that. I hope to do this on a daily need, prayerfully. For example, one day I will work on my relationship with my children by being kinder and more patience with them. I know you're probably asking...She's only going to be kind to them one day? The hope is that it will carry to multiple days and then become a habit and then it's just part of my life and not a goal anymore. Wish me luck!

An unforgettable Christmas

2010-12-27T16:32:00.001-08:00

Last minute we decided to go to Florida. It really was last minute because we weren't sure if we would get on a flight until the night before. My parents had a timeshare for the week in Orlando and the Allen's (my sister and her family who live in TX) were driving so we wanted to go to be there with them. Free flights and free stay...we were there! The flight from SLC to NY was the red eye. We left at midnight and got to NY at 5:30am. I didn't sleep much worried that Sterling would bother the lady next to him as he is sprawled out (when we fly standby none of us sit next to each other except Sterling and me. I'm sure people wonder where are their parents? Luckily, my kids are good flyers and enjoy watching TV and the snacks/drink.) We arrive in NY and need to take the flight to Orlando at 6. Six seats are available (Paul could jumpseat) so we could get on but all the seats are in the exit row which our kids can't sit in so they told us if people will move, we can get on. Paul goes and asks the flight attendants and they said they would do it but then the front desk employee said "I am not taking a delay for this!" so she wouldn't let us on. Flight leaves, we are stuck at the airport. No problem, next flight is in an hour and half. Time to board that flight...it is full so we wait for the next flight for an hour. That flight is full so we wait for the next flight which is in 3 hours. At this point, my kids are getting bored and frustrated that we can't get on. Breanna and Kailene start to cry and say "Why won't they let us on the flight? Why is everyone else getting on the flight?" They did not quite understand the concept of standby. We decided to play some card games and Paul and some kids got some zzz's. Carolers came by and lighted the mood. Who can be in a bad mood when carolers are singing in the airport? They used traditional songs and changed them inserting JetBlue. It was cute and creative.

Finally, we got on the flight at 12:30 (7 hours in the JFK airport) and arrive in Florida. Audralyn (my sister) and Mark pick us up at the airport and we head to the hotel. The weather is nice so we all go for a swim. The hotel is beautiful and equipped with many swimming pool, lazy rivers, slides, and lots of hot tubs. That night we eat spaghetti and get a good night sleep.

Day 2: The plan was to go to Universal Studios aka Harry Potter park but Ava (Audralyn's daughter) got sick so Paul and the boys went and we stayed at the hotel. Girls played in the pools for hours. From the boys' reports, it was the best park. Fun and crazy rides. Harry Potter exceeding all their expectations. Of course, the best was when my mom got wet(long story but hilarious, one of the best part of our trip!). Even 5 hours later when they got back, she was still damp. Lots of laughs. All came home and adults went out to dinner.

Day 3: The girls and I went to Magic Kingdom with the Allens (my parents were leaving and had two extra tickets). I stayed with the younger kids going on the small rides while everyone went on the big rides. There is nothing like Disney World. Four parks and all incredible rides. It was fun singing on the train "Santa Claus is coming to town". Went out to dinner with everyone after the park.

Day 4: Going home. We packed up and went to the airport. Once in JFK, only one seat available so we decided to get a hotel for Christmas Eve. I have never been to New York so this was exciting to me but when I opened up the drapes in the hotel, not much to see. I still sang "Empire State of Mind" by Alicia Keys

New York, concrete jungle where dreams are made of

There's nothin' you can't do
Now you're in New York
These streets will make you feel brand new
Big lights will inspire you
Let's hear it for New York, New York, New York

We decided to order pizza at 11pm and read from Luke 2 and then watch the Christmas Story on TV while all the kids go to sleep. I am grateful we could spend Christmas Eve together even if it wasn't at home.

Day 5 (Christmas Day): We wake up early to catch the shuttle to the airport. First flight out to Las Vegas was at 7am. We figured we could then catch a flight to Long Beach and then to Salt Lake. We just wanted to get closer to SL. If worst case, we could rent a car and drive 6 hours home. Couldn't get on that flight (a blessing later). Next flight out was to Burbank, CA. The front desk employee calls up Talbot party of 7 and says "We have one, two, three, four, five, six, seven seats available!" Are you kidding me? It was a Christmas miracle! Only 7 seats available. We flew from New York to California. This was a long flight (almost 6 hours). Most of the kids slept but Preston sure did get mad when his TV stopped working. It was a long, hard flight for mom. Now all we have to do is get to Long Beach and we are home free. Long Beach is about 30 minutes from Burbank. There is a train that we could take but it is not running on Christmas Day so we take a shuttle from Burbank to Long Beach. We get to the airport in plenty of time to catch the flight to Salt Lake. We are coming home. I called my parents and starting singing "We'll be home for Christmas" That song now has new meaning for me. We get to my parent's home around 7 and have Christmas dinner. It was so delicious since I hasn't eaten anything all day. Airplane food just doesn't satisfy and airport food is too expensive. We go home and around 10pm opened presents. Yes, Santa came (aka sister) to our house. After presents, I closed my eyes and fell asleep immediately. What a trip!

Now with all the airports and airplanes being cancelled and closed these past few days we know it was a blessing that we left JFK when we did. He was watching over us and helped us get home. If you asked the kids, they would say it was the worst vacation ever! Actually, they had so much fun in Orlando but the airports were a challenge. If you asked me, I loved it and would do it again (alittle different). I loved being with the Allens and going to Disney World. I loved swimming and being in warmer weather. I loved being with my family making wonderful memories. It was a Christmas none of us will forget.

Festival of Trees and Dayton singing group

2010-12-27T16:10:00.000-08:00

My sister DeLayne has a singing group my kids are apart of. There was some discussion if she should continue because of chemo. We were worried about her getting sick with all the kids germs and being too tired but I am so glad she decided to keep it until December. I think it has been good for her and my kids love it! Kailene would pray DeLayne got better so she could do the singing group. We always perform at the Festival of Trees. DeLayne looked radiant and almost like Liza Minnelli in her black turban. It was a wonderful performance, even some laughs as younger kids tried to grab the microphone and sing to their hearts' desire.

Temple Square and the Kimball

2010-12-27T15:40:00.000-08:00

My favorite tree was the orange one. Breathtaking!

My parents have some timeshares, one being at the Kimball in Salt Lake. I have many fond memories of spending the night at the Kimball, usually around General Conference in October which sometimes happened to fall on my birthday. This year my parents booked the week of the 13th so DeLayne's family and my family decided to go see the lights and spend the night. We met at Crown Burger (a tradition) and walked around Temple Square and saw all the beautiful lights. The weather was wonderful, probably one of the first times I can remember it not being bitter cold. We stayed up way too late (for a school night) playing games and watching Elf. Fun night!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Talbot family!

2010-12-25T15:36:00.000-08:00

Why do we go to the temple?

2010-12-06T16:21:00.000-08:00

The day before chemo, DeLayne and I (and her best friend from high school, Ali) went to the temple. It is the perfect place to calm your fears, feel the Spirit without restraint, remember what is important, and puts everything into perspective. They needed help in the sealing room so we decided to do sealings. Hershel Peterson was the sealer. If you don't know Hershel, he is a scriptorian and my understanding of the gospel is so small compared to his understanding. At the conclusion of our session, he gave us some counsel and asked us why we go to the temple? He replied with many scripture references and talking so fast that we didn't get it all but the jist of it was we go to the temple because of obedience and service and to renew the Holy Ghost within us. Now we have consecrated the day by our service and now we can go to the Lord and receive the desires of our heart. He quoted 2 Nephi 32:9 (the only scripture I remembered) which states "that [H]e will consecrate thy performance unto thee, that thy performance may be for the welfare of thy soul." We all just broke down and cried. It never ceases to amaze me how the Lord answers us in different ways. Hershel did not know our desires, our prayers, our reasons for coming to the temple that day yet he was the messanger that answered our prayers. What a wonderful experience.

Disneyland 2010

2010-10-27T10:14:00.000-07:00

We are on the 5 year plan with Disneyland. We go every 5 years and 2010 happened to be the year we go. Thankfully, Disneyland was doing a promotion and since we did service earlier this year, we were able to go for one day FREE! We went over Fall Break. Other family were going to go but with my sister getting cancer, plans changed for them. I curse cancer! We had a great time and officially wiped out everyone, including myself.

We got the kids out of school a day earlier so we could get on the flight. We went to the beach on Wednesday. The kids love the beach. The weather wasn't perfect and the water was too cold but they still had fun running away from the waves. Even Sterling loved it until he fell in the water and got sand in his suit. We went to Costco and bought lunch food and snacks for the next two days. We went to dinner with Paul's real dad, Ernie (this is why my kids are so dark, Paul's real dad is mexican).

The hotel was great. We got a great deal thanks to Paul's brother and fiancee with a friends and family discount. We had plenty of room for our large family of seven. 3 beds, separated rooms, fridge, continental breakfast. The only problem was it was about 3/4 mile from Disneyland. Not a big deal in the morning walking to Disneyland but my legs KILLED at night after walking all day long. The kids had to get in the hot tub first. I think we could have ended the vacation after that. The kids love the hot tub.

We went to Disneyland first. Disneyland is very nostalgic to me. I love It's a small world. It makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. Such wonderful memories for me as a kid. Of course, Splash mountain is also a classic. We were able to hit every ride and the kids went twice thanks to baby swap. Disneyland really has it going on. That is why it is the happiest place on earth. The employees are so happy and they are so accomodating. We did lose Kailene once and it was very scary. We all were aboard the ferry boat and realized she had not gotten on. Paul got off and few (long) minutes later came running back with her. She was giving a store employee her information. Good for her!

California Adventures was the next day. I love California Adventures and now I love it even more now that it has my favorite ride...Toy Story Roundup. So fun and yes I won both times!

Brad loved Space Mountain (made me sick...what is wrong with me? I'm turning into my mom), California Screaming, and Tower of Terror

Preston loved all the rides and was a good sport the whole time.

Kailene loved anything with Mountain in it, California Screaming and Tower of Terror (she went on every ride, with no hestiations)

Breanna loved Autopia and all the rides in It's a Bugs life.

Sterling loved seeing Mickey Mouse. I had no idea he would react the way he did, pure joy. Glad I have it on camera. He can't stop watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse now.

Mom loved Toy Story Round up (of course, top score!), It's a Small World and Splash Mountain. I know, I'm boring.

Dad loved Aladdin. The genie was so funny.

I wish we could say that the kids were angels but they weren't. They still fought. I kept saying We are at Disneyland and you can't fight at Disneyland (didn't work). It got worse as the day progressed and most were tired. We all were so exhausted every day, even the last day we didn't even eat dinner because we all just wanted to go to bed (who wants to eat at 11pm?)

We woke up early and left on the early flight (we were nervous we weren't going to make the later flight). I was so exhausted that I slept the whole BYU game (not much to watch). Overall, it was a wonderful time and hope to do it again in 5 years (or DisneyWorld...I love DisneyWorld)

Testimony, family meeting and singing

2010-10-25T11:40:00.000-07:00

These are a little late in posting but I wanted to have it in my records...

9/5 The weekend after my sister was diagnosed with cancer (she was still in the hospital after her masectomy), it was fast and testimony meeting. I had the feeling to go and bear my testimony but not in my own ward but in hers. A little wierd, except that I know many people in her ward (DeLayne seems to invite me to all of her ward functions!) Her ward has been unbelievable. I have never seen anything like it. Sometimes a little bit overboard but they really have taken upon them their baptismal covenant where it states "comfort those in need of comfort". Because the ward took care of the meals and babysitting and housework, the family was able to help DeLayne. How important it was for us to be with her and not have other things on top of that to worry about. It is a blessing to be apart of a church that serves one another. DeLayne could not believe the outpouring of love and generosity. It was overwhelming but it was a tribute to how much of an influence she is to others and how loved she is by many. It is hard to be on the receiving side rather than the serving side.
After my meeting, I went to DeLaynes' ward and bore a simple testimony of the trust we need to have in the Lord. And of the gratitude we had as a family for the charity and Christ-like attibutes they showed to her and her family. I also bore my testimony that miracles have not seized on the earth. And that hopefully we can all learn from these hard and trying times.

9/6 We had a meeting with my family. We wanted to discuss what we can do to help DeLayne and help each other. Very emotional meeting. We all shared our thoughts and feelings and how important it is to stay close to the Lord. My dad mentioned that if it depended on our own faith, individually, to cure DeLayne what would we change in our life. It makes you think. If we really had that much power, what would we change?

9/26 My sister, Audralyn, came to be with DeLayne for 5 days. She lives in Texas and has had to deal with this alone so she decided to come to help and be with family. I love my sister Audralyn! I wish she lived closer. DeLayne decided (last minute, of course) that she wanted all of us to sing in her ward since all the sisters were together. I hate singing especially in someone else's ward. I'm sure they have great talent in their own ward, they don't need the Bluth sisters to invade their ward. Needless to say, we sang the most beautiful song Abide with me, Tis Eventide. During rehearsal, DeLayne told us that this is the song she would sing during those long, sleepless night. Of course, it was not a smart thing to tell us because now the song has emotion tied to it. We were all nervous to sing it without crying. We did make it through it (partly because we got it all out when my dad came over during rehearsal and told us to relax, smile more, and said "it sounded absolutely beautiful"). It was beautiful. A wonderful experience to share with my mom and sisters.

It'a a freak show

2010-10-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

My sister, who has cancer, decided to shave her head on Friday. She was tired of it coming out all over the place. I also think it's being able to control something since nothing with cancer is within your control. She decides when her hair goes, not the chemo. I could tell that she was hesitant because she still had a good head of hair after 2 treatments (she actually was thinking she was going to beat the odds and maybe not lose her hair at all) but because she wanted to do it with family and friends and the weather was getting colder, she decided to go along with it. At first she was was looking at our faces for a reaction because she had no mirror and could not see herself and so we gave her a mirror and she freaked! "What am I doing?" she would ask. There were a lot of jokes and comments that she looks like someone from the 80's (especially her mohawk stage) and lots and lots of encouragement and praise on how beautiful she looks. All was well until she looked at my dad. "Oh don't cry dad" she said and as I looked at my dad, we all lost it. Tears were streaming down his face as he looked at his daughter. I wondered what thoughts were going through his mind as he watched his daughter have to shave her head. It was a tender moment between father and daughter. She really does look beautiful. I liken it to being pregnant. Most of us our not at our best when we are pregnant (sick, fat, etc) but there is a glow about us when we are pregnant. That is the same with someone who has cancer. They are beautiful! And don't her eyes stand out.

I was thankful that not everyone shaved their head. I don't know if you remember but when we first learned about her cancer, there was talk of shaving head, sisters and friends alike. I was not on board. I always wondered why because I would do it if she needed me to. But the more I thought about it, it all came down to This is not about me! If I shaved my head, I would get the attention and it wasn't about me! People would think I have cancer, and this was not about me! Thankfully, all decided to just let their husband and/or sons shave their head. Not too much of a sacrifice for them especially since I come from a family of baldies (father, brothers, and brother-in-laws).

Disclaimer: We did have to remind all the young lookers that we DO NOT do this out home. Cutting or shaving your head is not appropriate for young children. :)

Nicest kid in town

2010-09-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

My friend told me about a local contest for the "nicest kid in town" for the play Hairspray. I know I'm biased but Brad really is the nicest kid so I nominated him. And he won! So he was able to get 4 free tickets to the play and recognized at the beginning of the show. I told my family that Brad was going to be recognized and of course, they decide to come. We ended up having 25 people of family and friends come and support him. You can bet there was a cheering crowd when his name was called. He was a little embarrassed but it made him feel good. Nothing better than family supporting you! I was so proud of him. He really is a great kid and a great example to his siblings.

Here is what I submitted:

Has this ever happened to you?

2010-09-20T12:10:00.001-07:00

Have you ever gone to the store and bought all your groceries and forget your wallet? Yup, that's what happened to me. Both Paul and I forgot our wallets. When it came time to paying, both of us looked at each other and started laughing. It obviously has happened to others because they just had to suspend our receipt. It was pretty funny!

My sister DeLayne

2010-09-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

DeLayne came home on Monday. Yeah! I love having her at home. I did not like it when she was in the hospital. I feel much better and more comfortable that she is at home. We do not know anything more regarding her treatments and timeline. She seems to be doing great, though. She moves at snail speed when she walks around but everyday it keeps getting faster. She had her medicine bag removed yesterday (Wednesday) and now just on pain meds so that is an adjustment. We are in the process of starting a blog for her so she can write down her thoughts, feelings, and memories of this experience. I think it will be therapeutic for her and keep everyone informed.

Some thoughts I have had during the worst weekend of my life. I still can't answer why now but what gives me peace and comfort is that DeLayne has a way with people. She can influence people like no one else. This experience will bring about many miracles not only in her life but in other people's life that are affected by DeLayne. There is a bigger picture than we can even comprehend. We must have faith and trust the Lord.

As a family we all gathered together on Monday to talk about our feelings and emotions. This is affecting all of us and we all need to express ourselves and support each other through this. We talked about "giving up" something if that means it would heal DeLayne. What in your life would you be willing to improve upon so that His blessings will pour upon her. It made me think of the people of Limhi in the Book of Mormon who were not living right and had when they had trials they prayed to the Lord but the Lord was slow to answer them. That is why we go to church every Sunday, why we have Family Home Evening, why we read the scriptures because when something unexpected happens the Lord is bound to hear us because we have been living righteously.

I know there will be more heartache, struggles, and tears. As for now, it is good to have DeLayne home.

Breast cancer

2010-09-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

My sister has breast cancer. Totally unexpected. It's happening so fast, I don't even think I have had time to comprehend it all. She had surgery to remove the lump today (Friday). She is getting a double masectomy. Even though it's only in one, she feels that she needs to remove both. Now we are told that she tested positive in her lymph nodes...not good. This was suppose to be the" good" cancer. Now some of our fears are coming true. She will have to have chemo and radiation. It might have spread, we don't know yet. This shouldn't be happening to her. She is too young (38). She has young kids (ages 13-2). I don't understand. This has been a very emotional day for me. I don't know how to deal with it. I can't even go to the hospital. I don't think I am handling it well. I'm angry. This shouldn't happen to her. She is so positive and upbeat about everything. She has a way with people. Everyone adores her.

She was told a year ago that it was just a cyst and just to keep an eye on it. They didn't do an ultrasound, they should have. Then they said she will just have to have radiation but now it's worse than they thought so she will have to have chemo and radiation. She is going to lose her hair. My sisters are talking about shaving their hair. I don't know if I can. Am I too conceited? This is really hard. She just wanted to get this out and move on with her life. We have been praying and fasting for her. Her name is in many temples including the prayer roll of the general authorities. I know we shouldn't ask why but I am. Why her? Why now? Why aren't our prayers being answered? Nothing seems to matter now...I just want DeLayne to get better quickly and life to get back to normal.

Football season has begun

2010-09-03T14:24:00.000-07:00

Just a little reminder that football season is here! My husband mowed this logo into our lawn. Our bishop wants to paint a big red U on top of it (he is a Ute Fan). Here's to a winning year! GO BYU!

1st days of school

2010-09-01T14:08:00.000-07:00

When school starts again it just reminds me that my kids are getting older. I don't want them to grow up because that means one day they will be all grown up and gone. I hate that thought. All but one started school this year.

Brad is in 8th grade. Yeah so much easier than 7th grade (emotionally for me). I am a little worried because he comes home everyday and says he doesn't have homework. Hopefully that changes.

Preston is in 5th with the same school and teacher. YEAH! We love Miss B. Preston loves school and I am happy about that.

Kailene is in 2nd grade. She likes her teacher but none of her friends are in her class but she is making new friends.

Breanna started Kindergarten. This was hard for me because Bree and I get a long so well. She is my little mommy and helps me so much. As she was walking in her classroom she didn't even look back. Not even a I love you mom, I'm going to miss you, Thanks for the last 5 years of my life, mom. Nothing, just walked right in. She did wake up and hug us by 8 am and told us she loved us and will miss us. She still had 4 more hours until Kindergarten. She loves school and even after trying to persuade her, she still wants to go back.

First free flight

2010-08-25T14:18:00.000-07:00

For Brad's 13th birthday (yes, I do have a teenager!) we promised him a trip to San Fran to see Wicked the Musical, which is my favorite! It just so happened that we were able to get a flight and tickets on Aug 18th, one month exactly from his birthday. We just knew it was meant to be. Brad and I flew to San Fran, got a hotel, tried to get lottery tickets but had no luck and ended up buying tickets 9 rows from the stage! I was in heaven. I could see everything. It was pretty surreal to be at a theater performance with my son since that is what I did with my parents. It brought back many good memories. Show was fantastic!! Theater was beautiful. Elpheba and Glinda came from Broadway so we in for a treat. We stayed the night and hung around San Fran for the day. It was a shoppers-heaven. Now, I must admit, I am not a shopper. So walking around for hours was not that appealing to me or Brad but we had fun and tried to enjoy it since our flight didn't leave until the afternoon. Brad couldn't believe stores could be 3-4 stories, a full level just for a certain gender. We flew to Long Beach and unfortunately, we could not get on the flight that night to SLC so we had to spend the night in Long Beach. The flight home was stressful because we didn't know if we would get on that flight and it was an hour delayed. Ugggh! I guess it's not a good idea to fly during the summer or without Paul (you get pushed down on the totem pole if you are not flying with an employee). Even with all our setbacks, it was a great trip that I was able to enjoy with my son Brad. He deserved it and much more! Thanks to Paul who reassurred me all was well at home when I didn't get home for a day later.

FYI: The trolley's are not free and San Fran is so cold even in August!

Remembering Lola

2010-08-18T06:15:00.001-07:00

Lola as a pup & Lola all grown up

Our dog passed away this weekend. She was very young and this was not expected. She stopped eating and within days was dead. I don't understand why she died. Did she eat something? Did she get heartworm? Many unanswered questions. It has been really hard for my family, especially me. I am really not a dog person but Lola was a great dog. She was very obedient, well-behaved, low maintenance and loved us unconditionally. I cried for days. Every time I would think of her I would cry. My heart aches that she is gone. I wonder if there was something we could have done. But, then I wonder if the medical bills would have been too much. I consider a blessing in disguise that she died peacefully in our backyard. We don't talk much about where dogs go after this life. Have you seen the animated movie "All dogs go to Heaven"? It doesn't seem like a heaven to me if there are a lot of dogs barking all night, only my dog (which she rarely did, bytheway, only for strangers). I find comfort and peace that she will be waiting for us on the other side and we will still be her masters. We send off balloons with messages to her in the sky for FHE. We love you, Lola.

Diamond in the ruff

2010-08-06T22:39:00.000-07:00

Our new favorite spot-Splash park in Highland. The kids love it!

Some pictures of our 4th of July Festivities

2010-08-06T22:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Jetting (JetBlue logo)

2010-07-07T16:57:00.000-07:00

My husband just got a PT job with JetBlue. We feel pretty lucky considering they only hire less than 10% of the applications. I had heard that JetBlue has great benefits for PT and you can work at home so I told Paul to apply. Paul applied in October and they contacted us in April. It took a month or so for the background check, etc but now he is in training. 4pm-midnight for 4 weeks. It is up in Salt Lake so he has to leave at 3pm. I'm not use to my husband being gone so long or so late. I'm use to him working about 4-6 hours a day. I don't like it but I know it's a huge blessing for our family. I just have to get use to it. After training he will be able to work from home 4 nights a week (and it changes every 3 months) and still do appraisals during the day. The benefits are really great. Finally our whole family will be covered. Preston has been uninsurable since his seizures. The only way we were covered is if we pay a huge premium or be covered under the umbrella of a company. We consider this to be a tender mercy from the Lord. He is watching over us and protecting us. We are grateful.

Oh and the flight benefits aren't that bad either. All family members get to fly free plus Paul's parents plus we get 4 one-way tickets every quarter any where JetBlue flies. So many options now. A whole new world has opened up for our family. We are excited!

July 4th Festivities

2010-07-07T16:14:00.000-07:00

I love the 4th of July. It is my favorite holiday. Most like Christmas. Nope, not me. Mainly because all the family gets together but also because I don't have to give presents to everyone like at Christmas. Don't get me wrong. I love giving presents to others. I give presents to my kids all the time. And I usually have Christmas all bought for by July but what I don't like is my kids expecting a present when I wish they would realize the true meaning of Christmas. I guess what I don't like is being forced to give my kids presents when they might not have deserved a present. I don't like to reward my kids when they are rotten. But I do love to spoil my kids when they are good! Whew, I got off on a tangent.
The 4th of July festivities started on Sunday, June 27th. We went to the Patriotic Service at the Marriott Center. Besides the Glenn Beck patriotic service a couple of years ago, this one was my favorite one. I loved the music, singing, stories, and saluting our soldiers. It made me proud to be an American.
My brother and sister in law came into town and stayed with us. We had so much fun. Kailene was in heaven to have her same age cousin, Davis, to play with. Viva (3) was a doll and could talk your ear off (especially around bedtime). She played on our loft for hours alone. We were able to go swimming, go the Cedar Hills park and tube down the stream, watch the World Cup (my brother is a fanatic!), and BBQ's. We loved the company!!
Saturday we went to Stadium of Fire. I love Stadium of Fire. It brings back so many memories as a kid. It is a tradition and we make it so much fun. Carrie Underwood was great as always. She has the most incredible voice! I love her new songs, Undo it and All-American Girl. The fireworks were spectacular. Preston would ask me everyday if we were going to see the fireworks. He loved them which has not always been the case. When he was little, he would hide under the bleachers. Now he can't get enough of them. Brad was even in Stadium of Fire this year as a scout. He and his 3 other cousins held flags on the grass and got even better seats than us! And of course we love going to the after show in the Cougar room for food and mingling with extended family and friends. We were able to see the Lowe family. I grew up with them. They even named one of their daughters after me (Karalece). The dad just kept hugging me over and over. We hadn't seen them in 15+ years. It was pretty amazing to see them. They are a great and amazingly talented family.
Monday we went to the parade. Nothing is better than the Provo parade. We are spoiled because we always have reserved seating on the bleachers in the shade (with my dad being on the freedom festival board) but his year we were cold in the shade! The kids loved the parade. That night we went to my parents and had a BBQ, baseball at the park and fireworks. I love having my parents home (they have been on a mission for the past 18 months). It was the perfect end to my favorite holiday.
BTW: We have a new camera and took a ton of pictures but don't know how to shrink them yet and get them uploaded. Pictures to come...

It's a baby boy!

2010-06-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

Don't I look good for having another baby? Okay so it's my sister's. My sister just had her first baby. Yeah! He is so cute. 6 lbs 7 oz of pure love. I love babies. That is why I have 5. Am I done? I hope so yet I am struggling. I hear people saying they KNOW they are done. I don't. I want to be. I am overwhelmed and exhausted. It takes everything to take care of my five yet when I see a new baby I think, I want one. Everyone tells me that since I don't know, then I am not done. What?!? I already have 5 and one is autistic. I don't feel right praying about it. Is the Lord really going to tell me NO, don't multiply and replenish the earth even though it's a commandment? I know the Lord understands my situation and knows what I can handle. My emotions get the better of me because I want another baby but common sense kicks in and I realize it's really not that great of an idea. I am at the point where I want to raise my kids not keep having kids. And then I do the comparing thing and look at other women and they are having 5, 6, 7 kids. And then at church I hear how good their kids are, that they never fight, etc and I think what is wrong with my kids? But really I should be saying what is wrong with me because I am teaching these kids, right? Maybe if I had easier kids I might have another...maybe if I don't get so sick when I am pregnant, I might have another...maybe if I don't gain so much weight when I am pregnant, I might have another...maybe if someone else can raise my kids, I might have another...Sounds like I won't be having another soon but he's so precious! :(

Baby Streeter (no name yet)

What are your joys?

2010-06-01T14:59:00.001-07:00

Last night for scripture study we were talking about the joys of Alma. Alma's joy was "bringing people unto Christ, being His instrument, bringing souls unto repentance, laboring and bringing forth fruit, and success of his people" (Alma 29). We went around the room and asked everyone what brings them joy. Family, providing for the family, Disneyland were some of the responses. We asked Preston what makes him happy and he said one word: "Brad".

This is just another reminder of how much Preston ADORES his older brother. We were at Lagoon all day yesterday and not once did Brad complain about having Preston with him the whole time. Truth be told, Preston enjoys those rides more than most so he is not a burden but I applaud Brad for his patience and diligence with Preston. He really is a wonderful older brother to him. I have always felt that Brad told Preston in heaven that he will come first so then he will be able to take care of him on earth. Thanks Brad for being such a wonderful big brother!

A must see video

2010-05-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

I have nothing to complain about. Life is good. Life is really good.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHDvxPjsm8E

Hard lessons to learn

2010-05-05T08:09:00.001-07:00

My son has been in a performing group for the past 4 months. He loves doing it but it has been very demanding and time consuming and he has missed out on a lot of family activities. Before he signed up for it, he committed to his cousin to go to Owl City concert in April for her birthday. My sister bought the tickets and 4 months later, we realized it conflicted with his rehearsal schedule. We contacted the director and she said if he missed rehearsal he would be pulled from the part they were rehearsing that night which happened to be the FIRST HALF OF THE SHOW. Oh, the dilemna. I try to teach my kids that every decision has a consequence, good or bad. My son and I discussed the consequences for both. He was so frustrated that he had to decide between two good things. He had worked so hard in the play. He was also very excited to go to the concert with his cousin (you should have seen the excitment in his eyes when he was invited to the concert, priceless!). The decision he made was to go to the concert because he had made that committment first and, unfortunately, he was pulled from the first half of the show. Devastating! I went through every emotion...frustration, anger, mad, revenge, understanding and acceptance, guilt, and finally peace. The guilt was overwhelming! This didn't come until 4 days later. I woke up with extreme, overwhelming, consuming guilt. I cried for 2 hours. As tears flowed, I prayed to my Father in Heaven to "remove this cup". It was too much for me to handle and he did. I have not felt any more emotions since then except peace and comfort. My son handled it much better. He accepted the consequence and enjoyed the experience. We talked about the lessons we can learn from this...

When you make one mistake, the Lord does not reject you (or kick you out). It's not one strike you are out. I am so grateful for the atonement which allows us to repent from our many and continous mistakes.

Learn from small mistakes now that have minimal consequences than large mistakes later that could have catastropic mistakes.

Every decision we make has a consquence, good and bad. Learn from your mistakes. Go through the emotions but when it gets to be too much to handle, pray to your Father in Heaven. He already suffered for our mistakes. We don't need to suffer more than is needed. Again, I am grateful for the atonement.

You are not replaceable. You are of value and great worth. One of the messages they were sending my son was that he was replaceable. After all the hard work and sacrifices, someone else was going to take his place. I didn't agree with that AT ALL! No one can take his place.

It really matters how you treat others even if they are in the wrong. I was treated poorly and at first treated them the same way. I apologized to them for my behavior. I recently read a quote that said it all "...take responsiblity for our own behavior that a change of heart can take place."

Excel in whatever you can do. Since he was pulled from the first half, he helped out back stage until it was his part. He had a very good attitude. And when he came on, we cheered and secretly knew that the show was better from then on out.

Follow through with your committments. Follow the rules and respect those that make the rules. As much as I didn't like the rule they set, I understand it is there to produce a good show.

When all is said and done, family is the most important. This play will soon only be a memory but you will always have family. I was proud of his decision, as hard as it was to accept the consequences, because he chose family.

This ended up being a testimony-building experience. It was a positive experience for Brad which I am grateful for. He actually wants to do it again but we are going to take a break because it was so demanding and he seemed to miss out on many important events (chores, FHE, scripture study, family vacations). I am very proud of my son and have learned many things from his decision-making capabilities and his positive attitude. He is a good boy and makes us very proud as we see his spiritual growth. It is a priviledge to be his mom. I love him so much.

Pics to blackmail Sterling one day!

2010-05-05T07:59:00.001-07:00

This is what happens with no nap and no supervision!

Thank goodness for older sisters to dress you up so pretty!?!

Time to potty train?

Spring Break 2010

2010-05-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

This year we went to St George for Spring Break. It was a spur of the moment decision since my friends mom's let us use her condo to stay in and Brad couldn't come but we tried not to have too much fun without him. We went down on Friday and first went to Cottonwood Cove Park. This is a fun park with lots of new and dizzy equipment. I thought I was going to throw up watching my kids spin. The weather was so nice. We went to dinner and then to the oulets. We rented a movie and went to the condo.

Saturday we went to a park close to the condo and then headed to Pioneer Park. This was Preston's favorite place. I had no idea he loved to climb so much. He was in his element. It was fun to try to squeeze through the small crack. Do I dare say that Paul did not make it through(in his defense, he says many kids were trying to get by so he gave up :)). We ate lunch and then headed to Sand Hollow. On our way, someone motioned that we had a flat tire. Sure, enough. So we pulled over to the nearest tire store and 20 minutes we are back on the road (it was just a nail, thank goodness). Sand Hollow was too windy so we decided to go to Hidden Valley Park. It obviously got it name because it is Hidden. This is a great park because it is hidden. It has kid-friendly equipment and even water for those hot days (it was not turned on for us, bummer). The kids had a lot of fun. We played here for hours. At one point we were the only kids playing on this playground. We then went to Main Street and played with the fun water stream in downtown. We ordered pizza and ate at the park. Paul has a friend in St George who works for IHC Life Flight. Paul hooked up with him while we were there and he told us he had access to a pool OR we could tour one of his flight planes. Thinking we could go swimming anywhere we chose to see his planes. We had to go since Sterling LOVES planes and loves to see them and pretend to fly a plane and crash it. My prediction: Sterling will be a pilot when he grows up. It was so cool!!!! I love the picture of Sterling looking at the planes.

Sunday we went to church, walked around the temple grounds and headed home.

Michael Buble-Best Concert Ever!

2010-04-19T18:31:00.001-07:00

For Christmas, my husband suprised me with tickets to the Michael Buble concert in March. All my sisters and their husband went. I can't think of a more romantic setting than being at a concert with Michael Buble and my husband. I love. love, L O V E his songs. One of our favorites is "Everything". He put on a great concert. Very memorable and wonderful (even with my one clogged ear.)

Ear infection saga

2010-04-15T15:56:00.000-07:00

I got strep a month ago and it turned into an ear infection. I can't remember the last time I had an ear infection. It was so bad! I decided to document it. Sorry to bore all of you.

Day 1-Ear starts to hurt. Went to Young Womens more out of obligation than neccessity. Took some ibuprofren. It hurt off on and on that day. Took some sleeping pills because I couldn't sleep with the occasional pain.

Day 2-Ear hurt all day. Slept most of the day. Cried and screamed for 2 hours (Paul was out doing an appraisal). It was so painful. Took more ibuprofen. Didn't help. Couldn't stand the pain. Went to the ER around 1am. Told me I had an inner ear infection (Duh...Disclaimer: I don't like doctors, they state the obvious and I have to pay them what I already know. Just to let you know, I have a brother and brother-in-law who are doctors and I know not all doctors do that.) I asked him how long it will last? 2-3 days sometimes 10. He prescribed pain medications and antibiotics. Finally could go to sleep.

Day 3-On good drugs-slept most of the day. Had no appetite (if I lose weight, this will be the only good thing that comes from this!). Kids did some easter hunts. Paul took them and ran errands with them all day. Sad to miss the YW broadcast at the Conference Center (had tickets) but watched it at home.

Day 4-Didn't go to church. Slept most of the day. Had to take drugs every 4 hours plus ibuprofen.

Day 5-Felt pretty good as long as I took the drugs every 4 hours. Went to lunch with Paul. Ear started hurting afterwards. Took more drugs and slept.

Day 6-I am nervous because I am almost out of drugs. Ear still hurts especially at night. I take 2 before night and wake up in the night to take 2 more. Ear still plugged and I can't hear very well out of it. I tell my kids to speak up but they actually are speaking softer. So frustrated!

Day 7-Took kids to the dentist (4 kids+many cavities each=we are in the wrong profession!) Didn't take any medications this morning. Ear started hurting. My brother-in-law called in more drugs for me. Phew! Went to Michael Buble concert. Fantastic show. I loved it! No pain, only can hear out of one ear, though.

Day 8 to Day 12-Hard time getting to sleep most nights. When it's quiet, I hear a pounding in my ear. It is hard to concentrate.

Day 13 to present day-Thinking about going to the ENT. Ear is still clogged. I can hear out of it but it still pops. Doctors say it will go away. When? Soon? Tried many home remedies...yawning, chewing gum, mineral oil, garlic, onion, ear candles, neti pot. It seems to get better every day. I have gotten use to it. It's a little annoying that it hasn't unclogged yet. I'll let you know if/when it does!

Breanna's birthday

2010-03-15T15:44:00.000-07:00

Breanna turned 5. We had a princess party for her and had a surprise guest come to visit...her favorite princess, Belle. We had a makeover for the kids, put glitter on their face, painted their fingernails. Belle played cute games with them and we took a picture of them with her.

I am not going to like it when she goes to Kindergarten. She and I do everything together. She is my helper and is extremely nuturing. She wakes up in the morning and is ready to help mom. It is not uncommon for her to say "Mom, what can I do for you today? Can I clean the bathrooms or dust or I know, how about both!" I love that girl!

2010-03-10T15:47:00.000-08:00

Brad received his Star Advancement in Scouts last month. He is well on his way to earn his Eagle. His leaders think he will get it before he is 14. I love scouting. It is such a good program and we really have enjoyed it. We have so many options here with Pow Wows and Scout camps. It's a great accomplishment. Way to go Brad!

Go Vikings!

2010-03-10T15:40:00.000-08:00

One of the Young Women in my ward is a cheerleader and told me about this great fundraiser for her. I usually get recruited for fundraisers because I am in Young Women's and am a succor for helping out my YW but this one I really liked! The girls went for 3 days and learned cheers and a routine. They performed during halftime during the last PG game. My girls loved being with the cheerleaders. Not sure if they have a future in it but they were so cute!

Lost teeth and special award

2010-03-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

Kailene lost her first tooth at the end of January and 2 weeks later lost her second tooth. She wouldn't eat all day because her tooth hurt. Paul used the floss method and out popped the tooth. She said it didn't even hurt. I do not do well with lost teeth. Even as a little girl, I hated losing teeth and waited until they were hanging by a thread. It sends chills down my spine to see loose teeth, especially when they are playing with them with their tongue. Gross! I took some pictures but would rather not post them. They give me the creeps.

Kailene got an award at school for Curiosity and Creativity. Her teacher said for "always doing her best work and being kind to everyone". Kailene loves school and is already reading at a 3rd grade level (she is only in 1st grade). She loves to read. She is a good friend and always includes everyone. I just wish she would transfer that positive energy home when she is with her little sister. Good job, Kailene!

Disneyland here we come...

2010-02-17T10:10:00.000-08:00

This year Disneyland is giving out free tickets. You must volunteer in your community and then Disneyland will give you one day free for each member that volunteered. We went to the Living Planet/Aquarium in Sandy. We had never been before and thought it would be fun to feed the sharks. So we didn't get to feed the sharks ( I guess you need a little bit of training first, bummer) but we did do some easy counting, sorting and cutting of brochures for 2 hours and then they gave us an inside tour (even going behind the scenes). The coolest part was touching the sting rays. The pictures are blurry because they are from the iphone. We need a new camera so bad!

Sledding and Glaciers

2010-01-11T09:52:00.000-08:00

Every year our neighbor invites the neighborhood up to their cabin in Midway for sledding and lunch. It is really a lot of fun! This year was no exception but it seemed we did have more injuries than usual. Preston got wiped around as he crashed into a tree and came up with his nose bledding. Of course, he wanted to hurry and get it cleaned up and back to sledding. I got wipe lash as a young boy from another group crashed right into me (I was off to the side!) and knocked me right off my feet. I was holding Sterling and was worried he got hurt. I hit my head pretty hard because I had a huge head ache and was quite sore the next day. Nonetheless, the kids loved it. On our way home we stopped at the glaciers located in Midway. It was beautiful.

(The pictures were taken from the iphone since our camera was out of batteries)

Silent Night, Holy Night

2009-12-30T14:49:00.000-08:00

All is well, all is bright. The night of Las Posadas (Spanish word meaning lodging or inn) is a traditional, festive celebration that first introduced to the native people of Mexico by European missionaries, and is the reenactment of the story of Mary and Joseph's search for lodging in Bethlehem. This is a picture of our luminaries on Christmas Eve.
My husband took this picture at about 2 in the morning after we were nestled all warm in our beds and I had wished we had taken a picture of the luminaries.

Playing in the snow

2009-12-30T14:41:00.001-08:00

I love Utah. I love living in a place that has all four seasons. Here are the kids playing in the snow over the past couple of days. (We learned how to get Sterling to smile...when he says please he smiles and says "cheese")

Christmas tree

2009-12-28T17:04:00.001-08:00

We have a new tradition (since a couple of years ago) to go cut down a real tree. We go up to Manti Canyon and find the perfect tree. Okay, there is no such thing as the perfect tree, right? It's like saying we have the perfect family. The first hour is fun and enjoyable as we look for the "perfect" tree. We are picky and selective. But then we get tired of climbing and looking. Kids get onery. We just need to pick a tree. This is the "perfect" tree for our family. It's not perfect but we like it.

Fishing with my husband

2009-12-18T12:15:00.000-08:00

I really didn't want to hold the fish but I guess it's protocol to show off your prize

Paul caught the largest fish.

This picture was right after I caught the fish.

My husband likes to go fishing. I consider him a pretty good fisherman. I like it when he goes fishing because he usually brings home fish for us to eat after he goes fishing. He has a friend who takes him fishing with him on his boat. In October this friend invited me to go fishing. Wow. I felt special. I have never been fishing with them before on a boat. This is high tech. This friend has a fish finder GPS! This is serious business. I was a little nervous. It really was a lot of fun. I enjoy fishing. It is relaxing and exciting when you get a bite. It was probably a little too cold for me when the wind was blowing but I ended up catching a large fish. BTW: This friend calls it "catching" not fishing. He's great.

Satoshi

2009-11-19T11:46:00.000-08:00

Every year in October we have had a japanese student come and live with us for a week. It is one of the highlights of our year. The kids really look forward to it every year. Satoshi was so nice and respectful and gracious. He actually could speak better English than our previous Japanese student which was so wonderful to be able to somewhat communicate rather than playing charades. I am always amazed at their proper manners, something my family needs a lot of work on, and trust. I am sure it is scary to come to a strange country and live with a strange family and be at their mercy, eating their food, having to speak a different language, doing their activities. He was so willing to do anything with us and trusting us completely. Usually it is a week of non-stop going but this year we didn't do as much and it seemed more enjoyable and less exhausting.

What we did (this is more for me to remember than for all you readers):

Halloween party

Kids learned how to make origami

Bowling

Horseback riding with scouts

BYU game

Sunday dinner with sisters and their Japanese student

Eating at JCW (note the picture above, he couldn't believe the size of the hamburgers in America)

Walmart (we spend hours and hours there...they loved it!)

Closing ceremony

Japanese sushi (we didn't want to take him to someplace he can experience in Japan but he wanted to go so Paul took him at 9pm the last night. He said is was "very delicious")

As I reflected about this experience something that made an impression on me is that even though we didn't speak the same language we did communicate. We communicated with our actions. What did he think of our family? Our rituals? Saying prayers before meals? Going to church? Reading our scriptures as a family? I wondered if he felt peace and calm in our home amid the chaos of children. Did he feel the Holy Ghost? Did we plant a seed for him? (it is illegal to preach to him because he is underage but we could do our normal routine) Brad mentioned that it would be cool for him to go on a mission to Japan and preach the gospel to our students. Actions do speak louder than words. We may say we believe but do our actions show that we believe. Is there any doubt in other's minds that I am not ashamed to belong to the Church of Jesus Christ? That I take it seriously and take the opportunity to bear my testimony and live the gospel fully. One of my most favorite quotes is from David O Mckay: "What you sincerely in your heart think of Christ, will determine what you are and will largely determine what your acts will be."

On the way to the closing ceremony, Satoshi said he is sad and we asked Why? Because he will miss our family and loves us. We love you too Satoshi and miss you. The morning he left (very early, mind you) he went into each of the kids bedroom and told them Goodbye. It was a very sweet moment.

Bread recipe

2009-11-05T10:47:00.000-08:00

By popular demand (okay, request of 2 people), I am putting the recipe for homemade bread on my blog. I have a Kitchenaid so you can double it if you have something bigger (ex Bosch)

3 c whole wheat flour (freshly grounded, within a months time)

1/3 c vital wheat gluten

1 1/4 T instant yeast (I use SAF yeast)

2 1/2 c very warm tap water

Mix all four ingredients and mix for a minute. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes (this is called sponging)

1 T salt

1/3 c oil

1/3 c honey or 1/2 c sugar (honey is better!)

1 1/4 T bottled lemon juice

Add the next 4 ingredients. Mix for a minute.

2-2/12 c WHITE (bread) flour (you can use wheat but we like the taste of both flours)

Add flour 1 cup at a time, mixing between each cup. Add enough flour so the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Mix for about 6-10 minutes. This should make a soft dough that when you touch it, it springs back and dough is not left on your finger.

Preheat oven to lukewarm. Put dough onto oiled counter top and divide and shape into loaves and place in bread pans. I usually spray my bread pans with pam so it comes out easier. Put dough in the lukewarm oven and let it rise. Once the dough reaches the top of the pan, turn oven to 350 degrees. Do not remove the bread. Bake for 30 minutes (start timing when you turn the oven to 350 degrees). This recipe makes 2 loaves. Enjoy! Yummy!

Feeling prepared=priceless

2009-11-03T14:00:00.000-08:00

This year we had a plentiful garden so I have used many items to can to store for later. Here's the breakdown:

14 qt bottles of pressure cooked chicken (it is so moist and tender!)

5 pint bottles of tomato sauce

2 qt bottles of marinara sauce

4 pint bottles of marinara sauce

12 qt bottles of sweet and sour sauce (so delicious with chicken nuggets!)

5 pint bottles of sweet and sour sauce

15 pint bottles of stewed tomatoes

8 qt bottles of apple pie filling

5 gallon freezer bags of apple pie filling

12 qt bottles of sliced apples

11 qt bottles of applesauce

22 qt bottles of peaches

10 quarts of grape juice

Halloween

2009-11-03T13:26:00.000-08:00

I HATE Halloween. Okay hate is too hard of a word. Nope, can't think of anything else but hate. This year was actually less stressful and less busy than most, I think because it fell on a Saturday and I could do all the school parades and parties the day before. I bought their costumes months in advance (on sale, of course) which elimated half of the stress associated with Halloween. Now it's what to do with all that candy. Did anyone see that Family Circus comic in the Sunday paper? I totally feel that way as my kids are asking for candy first thing in the morning, just wait until AFTER breakfast. Plus, I will probably gain weight from all the candy that I eat because I don't want them to eat it but don't want to throw away.

We went to a pumpkin weigh-in and saw HUGE pumpkins. The biggest pumpkin weighed in over 1000 lbs.

All of these pumpkins were grown in our garden (and the corn stalks, didn't get much corn but love the stalks for decoration).

Breadmaker in the house

2009-11-03T13:16:00.000-08:00

Okay so I may not be the breadwinner of the house, but I am the breadmaker of the house! You may think I am bragging but I am not. I have finally mastered the making of bread (after years of failures, even rock hard rolls!). The key is freshly grounded wheat. I have a great recipe. It is soft and delicious and the kids love it! I think I will have another slice now.

Fall Break-Goblin Valley

2009-10-20T21:12:00.001-07:00

I grew up in Utah but most of my vacations with my family were outside of Utah so I decided to show Utah to my own kids (as well as myself). This fall break we went to Goblin Valley (by Green River). Never been to it but heard great things about it. We took my sister's camper and camped for free (no reservations, first come basis) at a great campsite a mile past the entrance. We had a lot of fun for 2 days (and could have stayed longer). The weather was great and even hot at times. It was a fun play area for the kids as they were finding new openings and entrances to caves. Next time we want to bring a GPS and go Geo-caching. Good times and good memories.

Pacifier(s)

2009-10-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Does my son love pacifiers or what? He is such a crazy boy!

Story to melt your heart

2009-09-22T13:00:00.000-07:00

Sterling had a bad day on Sunday. Church is now at 1:00 which I thought I would like, more time in the morning, no more rushing and being late to church BUT now it is right when Sterling takes his nap. I was hoping he would sleep at church but it hasn't happened yet. Sunday was Sterling's first time in nursery. Yeah! his parents exclaim until an hour later when they bring him to us because he his bawling uncontrollable. Who is this child? He never cries like that. Doesn't he know that nursery is fun with lots of toys, full on attention by adults, and awesome snacks? What is it about nursery that kids freak out about? I was afraid my son would have separation anxiety because he is wrapped around my little finger. So Sterling had no nap and we paid for it all day. When it was time for him to finally go to bed he fought us. For the first time in his life, I put him in his crib crying and walked out.
Now comes the sweet part. He shares a room with Preston. Usually it works out but sometimes Preston will play with him so he won't go to sleep. When I put Sterling to bed, Preston was asleep but he must of woken up by all the crying. He kept telling Sterling to stop crying and shush. But, he just keep screaming and crying. So, Preston decides to sing to him. Suddenly we hear The wheels on the bus being sung by Preston. He starts singing The baby on the bus goes sh-sh-sh, sh-sh-sh, sh-sh-sh all through the town. I was amazed. Preston never seizes to amaze or surprise us by his capabilities. He seems to continue to have progression and we are so pleased and grateful for his achievements. Preston has so much love to give and I hope he feels our love for him. I am grateful that he functions so well, just one tender mercy from our Heavenly Father. I know I have had many spiritual experiences because I have an autistic child. And I have relied on the Lord more because I have an autistic child. Sterling eventually fell asleep and the house was peaceful. Good job, Prest!

7 hens, 1 rooster

2009-09-21T23:58:00.000-07:00

Our chicks are all grown now and the final count is 7 hens and one rooster. We have our own little polygamy ranch. He seems to enjoy being the boss and keeping those hens in line (and doing his thing, you know what I mean). We are getting 7 eggs a day. So if you are in need of an egg or two, come get some farm fresh brown eggs (you may be lucky and get a large egg that has two yolks!)

Summer 2009

2009-09-20T21:38:00.000-07:00

I know this is a little late but I wanted to document what we did this summer. I think we hit every pool in Utah. We went to Seven Peaks, Raging Waters and most of the local community pools. We did many other things but these were our highlights. Enjoy!

2009-09-20T21:37:00.001-07:00

Stung by a wasp

2009-09-09T22:46:00.000-07:00

Sterling was stung by a wasp 5 times-that's right, 5 times! He kept hopping around and slapping his leg until Paul pulled his pants down and the wasp fell out. You better believe we destroyed that hornet. A little bit of melaleuca oil and ice and it healed very quickly. I hate wasps!

What I did today...

2009-09-01T19:46:00.000-07:00

I made 4 loaves of bread, banana-oatmeal-chocolate chips muffins (very healthy until you add the chocolate chips!), canned sweet and sour sauce with our garden tomatoes, and made dinner for my neighbors. What a productive day!

Need to save some money, go to Smith's

2009-08-04T13:10:00.000-07:00

I scored at Smith's yesterday! I haven't been able to do a lot of deal/coupon shopping this summer because of limited time but I finally took advantage of the double coupon day at Smith's. I took ALL my coupons and headed to the store. I think I was there for over an hour but I walked out with $100 of groceries and only ended up paying $40! That's 70% savings. And on top of that, I am going to send in a rebate for $10 back. That means I got $100 of groceries for only $30. Yippee! I wish you could see my excitment. The man in line (who had to wait for each coupon to be scanned, I think I about 40 coupons) said he had heard of people like me who lowered their grocery bill with coupons but never seen it. He was throughly impressed. To be honest, I was impressed too.

Trek 2009

2009-07-15T13:29:00.000-07:00

Paul and I had the amazing experience to go on Trek with the youth to Tabiona, UT (I did not know there was a city Tabiona in Utah, and I have lived here my whole life). It is over the mountain from Heber. Our kids were all over the state and into another, the girls went to Idaho with Paul's brother and sister-in-law, the boys went to Riverton with my brother and sister-in-law, and Sterling was in Provo with my sister. We were Ma's and Pa's over a group of 3 boys and 3 girls (most "families" had more, ours was the smallest) reinacting and experiencing the pioneer stories of crossing the plains to get to Salt Lake. I have ties from my side of the family from the Loader family who came in the Martin's Cove company so I felt a genuine connection for the pioneers. I won't bore you with the details of each day but I want to write down my feelings and emotions I had on Trek. The most memorable experiences were the Women's Pull (Faith Hill) and the last day.

Faith Hill (aka Women's Pull)

The men left to go fight in the "Mormon Battalion". This was an actual event. The men left and the women had to continue pulling the handcarts by themselves. The hill they chose for us was soft dirt and it just kept going up and up and up. It was so hard, probably the most physically demanding. We had a devotional before we started. We sang Sister in Zion and Sister Twiggs (the young women president) spoke to us and motivated us by saying Satan will try to make us believe we can't do it, it's too hard, to give up but WE CAN DO THIS! What this taught me about myself-I have more strength and endurance than I thought I did. I thought I was in good shape but I was breathing so hard plus it didn't help to be hot and at a higher elevation. But, at the end I did and the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming.

I can't do it alone, I need others to help me push and pull. We all have our own "handcarts" we are pushing. We need to each other. We are very powerful TOGETHER against the evils of Satan.

We all walked by the boys and they couldn't help but just look at us and encourage us. It was hard for those boys to do that but it taught them valuable lessons as well-respect for the women, the capabilities of women, and that women can do hard things. At the end of the hill, the boys could step in and take over. What a relief! And it seemed to be at the perfect time when I didn't think I could take another step. Sister Twiggs spoke again that night and told us that is like the Savior. He had to let us do it on our own watching us, encouraging us but it isn't until we can't do it anymore that He steps in. Powerful!

Angels among us (the last day)

Unlike previous days that were physically draining, this day was emotionally draining. The previous day our rice baby died. But, this day one of our siblings died which happened very often in the Martin and Willie Handcart Companies. Each family on trek had a sibling die. Ours was sweet, little Kimmie. As we were packing up she had to leave and go with the Stake. Our family walked down the trail without her. At a certain point on the trail they told us it was sacred ground and we needed to be quiet and reverent. As we turned the corner we saw the most magestic, beautiful, awe-inspiring sight I have ever seen. Against the red rock were the youth who had been chosen to die holding the rice babies we buried the day before. The spirit was so strong. I saw our sweet girl and she gave a little, discreet wave and then I saw her holding the baby. I lost it. I thought of my own family and I missed them. My emotions were at the surface because I was physically drained and then the spirit touched me so much I became emotionally drained. My love for those saints grew, my love for the youth grew, and my testimony of the plan of salvation grew. Death is not the end and I know heaven will be glorious as I felt a glimpse of it in Tabiona, UT. We all have angels among us-helping us, cheering us on, and praying for us.

There is no other place stronger than when the youth are gathered together. I feel blessed and privileged to be with the youth in my calling as a counselor in the young women's. I also feel extremely humbled to have been a part of that wonderful experience on trek. It was a moment in there life they will say they KNEW the gospel was true. This experience once again testified to me that the church is true, that Christ is our Savior, and Joseph Smith restored the gospel here on earth. It also reaffirmed by faith in the plan of salvation. I am grateful to have this knowledge and to have the gift of the Holy Ghost testify to me.

July

2009-07-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Summer has been busy (as always) and it has been going so fast. I have so enjoyed doing specific activities with the kids each day. July is a hectic month. We spent the 4th of July with family. We did wake up early to go look at the balloons but missed them. I guess they start at 6:00 not 6:30! But the nice thing was we went to breakfast at Macey's in Provo (of course it was free) and a balloon landed right in front of us. It made it all worth it. It did have to take off again because there was no room for it. We did go to the parade, who can miss the Freedom Festival parade? It has to be the best one. Especially if you arrive at 9 and get bleacher seats in the shade.

We opted out of Stadium of Fire because my parents aren't here and it's not the same without them. I regret not going but look forward to it next year. There is nothing like the Stadium of Fire and it brings about so many emotions of love for my county and being with my family. I have so many fond memories of past Stadium of Fire. We did sent Brad to Stadium with cousins (he so deserved it!) so he represented our family. He took some good pictures and video of the night.

Paul and I went on Trek with the youth July 8-11. Unbelievable experience and deserves it's own post. Life changing! Brad is at scout camp this week and I have girl's camp at the end of the month. I feel summer is slipping by but we have enjoyed the pool and all the fun with summer.

Summer is here

2009-06-10T15:30:00.000-07:00

School's out and it's summertime. YEAH! I actually do enjoy summer. I love the heat. I love being outside. I love going to the pool every day. I love picking up after my kids after they change their clothes from swimsuit to regular clothes and again to swimsuit (okay, THAT I don't like). Every year I think I need to have more constructive activities for the kids so they don't get bored. So, this year Brad (my 12 year old son) and I decided that we are going to a specific activity every day. Some will be fun, others not so fun. I am posting them because the probability of us doing it after writing them down goes up and telling them to friends, it even goes up higher (accountability).

Mondays-Cooking day (usually a dessert for FHE)

Tuesdays-Movie day (summer movies at the Cinemark in AF for only $5 a kid for 10 movies)

Wednesdays-Outdoor chores (weeding, mowing, harvesting the gardens)

Thursdays-Learn something new (new museums, academics, library)

Fridays-Fun day outside, sports, misc

Saturdays-Indoor chores

Sundays-Games and company

I am hoping that these activities will be in the morning before lunch and then we will time for swimming after lunch. Of course, with the summer comes flexibility. That is what is so great about summer! What are you doing this summer?

Life as you know it will never be the same...

2009-05-29T11:04:00.000-07:00

That is what I have been telling my 11 year old (almost 12) all day today. Brad graduated from elementary school today. CONGRATS, BRAD! WAY TO GO! It only seemed fitting that they each had a balloon and sent it off into the sky. Goodbye childhood, goodbye play, goodbye recess, goodbye innocence, goodbye fun. Now it's all work and no play. Now it is responsibility and no relying on mom and dad. Now it's survival mode and no mr. nice guy. I would be lying if I didn't say that I am scared to death to have him go to junior high. I hate junior high. Everything changes in junior high. Brad is a good boy. He is smart and excels in school. He makes friends easily and is a good friend. He is very creative and likes to have fun. I think he will do just fine in junior high. LOVE YOU, BRAD

Brad with his teacher, Mr D. He is an amazing teacher!!!!! Thanks for the great year!

Memorial Day

2009-05-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

This year we stayed in Utah for Memorial Day. It was so nice to relax and enjoy a barbeque with Paul's sister and family. We went to Patience Loader's (one of the pioneers in the Martin Handcart Company) cementary in Pleasant Grove. She is my great great grandfather's aunt. It is because of her family that we now live in Utah. I am so grateful for my pioneer heritage. The stories and experiences really uplift me. I know they made many sacrifices for me. I am in awe of their strength, perservance, and committment to the gospel.

My favorite deals to date

2009-05-17T21:55:00.000-07:00

As I have said in earlier blogs, I love to shop with coupons!!! I have to show my new food storage room. Remember in March when we built these shelves? Now look at them. We are well on our way to a year supply of food. And I did it with coupons and sales. I even stayed on our monthly budget of $400 (includes grocery and household items and eating out) for a family of 7. It is true that if you follow the prophets, you will be blessed.
Here are some of my favorite deals so far.

All the cereal-$1.00 or less

B-B-Q sauce-free

Capri sun-free

Pace picante sauce-free

Soda pop-$1 each/12 pack case

Deodorant/Body wash/Toothpaste/soap-free

Diapers-$2

One of my favorite shopping trips (so far) was at Albertsons. I bought $81.92 worth of groceries but with coupons it took it down to $26.65 (savings of 55.27) but I sent in a rebate for $20 so the whole thing cost me $6.65! I did not take a picture of all of the food (too much) but I did take a picture of the receipt (picture below). The receipt is over 2 feet long.

The picture below was an AWESOME day. I bought all the items for only (drum roll, please) $13.00. If you can't make out the picture, I bought 4 easy macs, 4 capri suns, 20 mac & cheese, 3 chocolate bliss candy, 3 chex mix, 2 trial size sunscreen, 3 boxes of cereal, and 2 toothbrushes. Not pictures are 6 apples that I bought for free (at SuperTarget with coupon).

Everything in this picture was free except for the fruit snacks (50 cents each) and the juice was buy 1 get one free.

It is a different way of shopping than I ever have done before. I only buy what is on sale and usually with a coupon. It takes me a lot longer to shop now because I have to figure out what to buy and go to multiple shopping stores but I love the satisfaction of getting a good deal. It brings a smile to my face.

Lessons from the chickens

2009-05-10T17:23:00.000-07:00

I have some sad news. Friday night our dog ate one of our chickens. I freaked out! It was getting dark and I was putting the kids to bed when I glanced outside and saw Lola, our dog, eating something (I will not go into details, you do not need to have the same images I have in my mind...too disturbing). I panicked. Paul was on a scout campout with Brad. I ran over to my next door neighbor and told him that something bad happened and I needed his help. I knew I couldn't go in the backyard and see it for myself or clean it up. I started to get really emotional. My nice neighbor cleaned it up for me and told me that he only counted 7 (we have 9). We believed Lola only ate one which means one of the chickens was out wandering alone, scared and without any hope for survival. I started to cry again. Now we have a lost chicken?! I know it's not the same as a lost lamb but I felt so horrible. I called Paul and told him the news. Of course, my emotions got the best of me and I couldn't control them. After I got off the phone, I just laid on the floor and cried. I had feelings of guilt, sorrow, disappointment, disguist and failure. As a caretaker, we were suppose to care for and protect these chickens. They relied on us for survival and safety. I let them down. I finally had the courage to go out to the chicken coop to tell them I was sorry and cried some more. I tried to find the lost chicken in our backyard but it was too dark. After I composed myself and prayed that I would have these feelings subside, Paul showed up (I did not tell him to come home but he was close enough and felt he should come home which I am very grateful, it would have been a long night). He went out with a flashlight and FOUND the lost chicken. It had fallen in our window well. Hooray!! That really lifted my spirits.
Lessons I learned from the experience:
1. Just like these chickens, our children rely on us for safety, protection, and even survival. They are safe within the walls of our home but the world is dangerous, scary, and can be deadly.
2. I realized we were being a little too comfortable and too lackadaisical with these chickens, letting them roam more and not locking up the coop. The kids had friends over on Friday and wanted to show them so they opened up the coop door to let them out. I did not know and Lola was not put away. We, too, can be alittle lackadaisical in our church activity. We don't think that reading the scriptures, or going to church, or saying our prayers is that important or making that much of a difference. But, in reality, if we stop, it could be detrimental. As soon as you stop doing what is right, Satan's "fiery darts" can spiritual kill us. You can not be casual in life because you never know when danger will strike.
3. Just like the lost lamb, it was such a relief to find the lost chicken and bring it back to safety. We have the responsiblity to bring others back to safety (to the gospel). In the D&C 18 verse 15 we read about "crying repentance unto the people, and bring, save it be one soul unto him, how great shall be you joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!"
4. I am NOT a farmer's wife. Too attached, too emotional.

After I got the chickens, I heard about the pecking order. Chickens tend to peck at one chicken, taking their food and excluding them. They get their feather plucked out from others. I think it is cruel and very disturbing. But, we do this as humans as well. There is always someone who is picked on (bullied) and they lose their self-worth. They don't feel apart of any group and tend to be recluse and alone. Even innocent bystanders contribute to the pecking (or those being picked on), by not standing up. So many things I need to teach my children.

Things we have done to prevent this in the future:
Paul has now put up a fence around the chicken coop.
We now have a screw in the door latch and it can not be removed unless it is removed by Mom or Dad.
A FHE lesson on Monday.
Never let Mom be left alone to be responsible for the chickens.

I've been (to) WICKED!

2009-04-26T22:35:00.000-07:00

I went to Wicked last night! Aaaaaaahhhhh! I still can't believe it. I have wanted to go again ever since I saw it in Colorado with some friends. I convinced my husband to take the family to the Capitol Theater after a family party. We waited in line for about 1/2 an hour and then put our names in a witches brew. A half an hour later they called 10 names and our name was called. I couldn't believe it! I was crying and screaming. Out of over 400 names we heard "Brad Talbot". That is a 2 percent chance. I don't know how I got so lucky. I have never been this lucky in my entire life. Not only that but they were only $25 each and our seats were on the 5th row! Yes, I typed that in right-5th row! We could see them spit. I will have to post pictures and my incredible, emotional (yes, I did cry again) experience later. I am on cloud nine. I love Wicked!

What we did for Spring Break

2009-04-26T22:20:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since we have taken a family trip. We were going to go visit my sister in Texas over Christmas break but Paul was so busy with appraisals we had to stay. So, this was a long awaited family trip. We decided to go to Legoland for Spring Break. Our family has never been and we heard it is great for young kids plus it was less expensive than Disneyland (I got a deal on ebay). We left on Friday after school and headed to Las Vegas where Paul's brother lives. We got in late and just crashed. Saturday we went to the butterfly park which is our favorite place in Las Vegas. The kids played there for hours, we had lunch, and then Russ (Paul's brother) and Michele (Russ' girlfriend of 3 years and counting) took the kids to a movie while Paul and I went shopping. Then we had a great ham and potato dinner and colored easter eggs and went to bed in time for the easter bunny to come. Sunday we awoke to some easter dressses and flip flops from the easter bunny. We went to church and then headed for California (San Bernadino, to be exact). Paul's biological dad lives in California and we planned on meeting him at Grandma Sophie's home. We had delicious food and lots of hugs and kisses (by Grandma Sophie who is 91 years old). We then headed to Hemet to sleep the night. Monday was Legoland Day. It was so much fun. The weather was great and the rides were a lot of fun. We seemed to have waited in lines earlier in the day. Our favorite ride was only a 20 minute wait (Project X). We had a blast! We had a great time. We ended up going to Carlsbad beach because Legoland closed at 6pm. The kids had a great time. They loved the beach. They loved running up and down, trying to run faster than the tide. They all loved it even after they fell in, accidently. Okay, Preston was on purpose because he didn't want to be left out. It was so funny to see them fall in and get swallowed by the wave. Tuesday was another beach day but it was so windy we didn't stay long. We only left because the adults couldn't stand the wind any longer. The kids loved the beach. We then headed back to Las Vegas which was our stopping place for the night. The next day we drove home after a dip in the hot springs which is in Meadow, UT which is in the middle of nowhere, literally. We got lost but finally found it. It was freezing outside but the water was so warm. After a drive through a snow storm and an accident on the freeway that created a parking lot, we finally made it home. It was a fanastic vacation. The kids were great, even in the car! The activities were fun and we loved staying with family. We even ended up below budget. Yippee! I can't wait until our next trip.

2009-04-26T21:16:00.003-07:00

2009-04-26T21:07:00.001-07:00

April Fools

2009-04-05T20:55:00.001-07:00

I love April Fools. I love a day full of fun and pranks and NO ONE can get mad because it is April Fools! I have done my fair share of pranks and have to watch my back on this day. In the past, my favorite has been putting a vinyl sign on my brother-in-laws truck saying "I couldn't afford a wife so I bought this truck!" He had it up for a long time after. He still isn't married and I think he still has the truck.

Here are the pranks I pulled on my kids this year.

For dinner I told them we were going to have dessert first. The kids were thrilled to eat cupcakes. They kept saying "Thank you, mom" or "You are the best mom" and "Yum, cupcakes!".

Then I told them they had to eat with different utensils. After the prayer, they started eating and realized that they were not cupcakes but meatloaf and potatoes. They did have fun eating with their different utensils. I also heated up their milk so when they drank it, it was warm. Gross, warm milk!

You would think the kids would have caught on by now but I still had one more up my sleeve. I did the toothpaste in the Oreo prank. They ate them and thought they tasted minty. Yuck!

My husband sent me an authentic email about claiming my tickets for Wicked that comes to Utah this month. I kept saying "What do I need to click, How do I get these?". It wasn't until he read the fine print that I caught on. Good job, Paul. I still want to go to Wicked, though.

Fun, fun day. Until next year...Watch out, I may get you next!

4th and 18

2009-03-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

At church yesterday we had a combined meeting for the adults for the 5th Sunday. The bishop addressed us and it really impressed me so I would like to write down my thoughts. He gave a number of 41% and said that along the Wasatch Front only 41% of the young men from 12 years old to 20 receive the Melchizedek Priesthood and are active in the church. We LOSE almost 60% (this number is a little lower for young women). He talked very boldly and to the point. Satan is working overtime and we have no more time to be idle and procrastinate. He gave the analogy-It's 4th and 18 (if you don't know what that is, BYU was down against Utah 10-9. Max Hall got sacked on 3rd down to make it 4th and 18. He threw a 'Hail Mary' to Austin Collie and we ended up winning the game.) We have no more time. We need to teach our children now. We need to be examples to them now. He said there are a few that think that general conference is a day off (as well as stake conference). But that's when the prophet of our church speaks to us. If we go to church on Sundays and then "take the day off" during General Conference weekend, it is confusing to our children and sets a precedent. Children are very observant and notice what's important in their parents' life. The bishop said Life is hard, the Gospel isn't. I love that quote and will use it more often.

The counselors also addressed us about self-reliance. They, too, were blunt. Many will need to get rid of their recreation toys, second homes, satellite dish, vacation plans. The church welfare program sustains life not a lifestyle.

I also went to the YW General Broadcast on Saturday. President Monson was so powerful. Among many valuable and inspiring words, he said we don't have the 10 suggestions but the 10 COMMANDMENTS. The world will disguise evil and make us believe that it's okay to be sexual permissive if we are safe. The prophet said IT IS NOT! Powerful, powerful words. Return to Virtue.

My cup is full and then I get to look forward to General Conference.

My deals for the week

2009-03-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

I went to Walgreens and bought 2 Arm and Hammer Laundry Detergent, 2 Glade Air Freshners, 2 Campbells soup and a toothbrush. Grand total (drum roll, please) 72 cents!

And then I bought 10 pace picante salsa at Smiths and 3 packs of gum for 70 cents!

I know, I know you don't believe me. I didn't believe it either and even the guy in the checkout stand couldn't believe it and said "You bought all of that for 70 cents!" But I can prove it with my receipts. Needless to say, I am addicted and get a high knowing how much money I am saving. My drug of choice: coupons!

Old McDonald had a farm

2009-03-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

I was out voted 5-2 (Sterling votes with me) and we got chickens. Paul has been begging me to get chickens. Our neighbor built a deluxe hen "spa" and so we asked him to build us one. It really is a sight! Those chickens are living in luxury. We don't even have to fetch the eggs. They just roll down in a separate compartment. So now we've become farmers. Actually I gave in because I thought it would save us money and be pretty neat experience for the kids. You are all welcome to come look at the chicks. They are really cute right now. And in 6 months they should be producing eggs so if you ever need to borrow an egg, give us a call.

All the chicks huddled together under the heat lamp to get warm. So CUTE!

Painting the chicken coop

The deluxe hen "spa"

Happy Birthday Sterling!

2009-03-16T22:30:00.000-07:00

Today is Sterling's 1st Birthday. Time flies. I remember when he was born. I was very anxious for his arrive. Like most of my pregnancies, I was in utter misery. It just seems that when I am pregnant life goes so much slower. I was big, fat, and swollen. I wanted him on a Sunday just because I never had a baby on a Sunday. I went into labor that morning, sent the kids off to church with Paul but they shortly arrived back home. He couldn't last with all the kids alone! The pains weren't too bad all day and I started to think that maybe I was in false labor again. I had false labor a lot this pregnancy. I went for walks trying to get labor going. I called my family and told them that I think today was the day but yet I really wasn't in a lot of pain. Then it hit me, around 3pm I started feeling the pains. I started to get really nervous. I have a fear that if I wait too long, I can't have the epideral. Luckily, the hospital is very close (a couple of miles, I should have thought to walk there and get labor going quicker). We head to the hospital. I wasn't there in the hospital more than 30 minutes and my water broke. Never has happened to me before. I always needed the doctor to break my water. Paul was grateful it was in the hospital bed not in the car! They get me all ready for delivery, my family arrives (my births are a family event, all are welcome...I apologize for any that need counseling afterwards). I love sharing this special occasion with my family. I actually zone them out so I really don't notice they are there until after delievery. Then at 6:11pm Sterling Paul came into the world. He weighed 6 lbs 12 oz. and was 19 inches long. My sweet, perfect baby boy was finally here. I remember thinking how perfect he looked. Now Sterling is 1 years old. He has been a complete joy. He has always been a good baby. He is so sweet and always smiles. I love you Sterling, to the moon and back.

Shopping maniac

2009-03-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

I have never really enjoyed shopping. Part of it is because I hate spending money. I think I finally have found what I like...coupon shopping. I do like finding a good deal. I can't wait to get home and show all my merchandise and disclose the total. Here is what I got this week for under $20!!!

6 bags of Huggies diapers-$2 each
10 bars of Buddies soap-free (had to pay tax)
1 Gillette Shampoo and Body wash-$1.50

I did have to go to 2 Walgreens and to Target. I also went to Maceys and Smiths to get groceries at the cheapest price (I bought 10 bags of pasta for 50 cents each at Smith!). This did take all day to shop at all those stores but I had such a rush knowing how much money I was saving. Totally worth it!

Where's Sterling?

2009-03-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

Where's Sterling? Is Sterling playing hide and go seek. Let's go find Sterling...

Oh there he is. Hi Sterling!

Sterling found an apple and secretly was eating the whole apple. We couldn't believe that he took real bites and ate the apple (without choking).

Welcome our new addition!!!

2009-03-07T12:45:00.000-08:00

It's finally here and we are so excited! We finally got shelves in our cold storage for our food storage and emergency preparedness.

Before pictures...

During pictures...

Yes, that is Paul just standing there watching Craig do all the work.

After pictures...

I know my food storage is weak but that is my goal for this year, build it up, one week at a time. I will soon have a mini grocery store. I have never been so passionate about something. Once Obama was elected, that was my wake up call. I need to be more self-reliant and prepared. Bottomline, I need to follow the counsel of the prophets. I finally get it and I can't express the joy and excitement I have felt getting my food storage together. It's exciting to plan and find the best deals around. I feel an urgency to remind everyone else that if you haven't started, start; if you have some, continue building on it; and if you have more than me, good job!

Kailene Storytelling

2009-03-01T16:11:00.000-08:00

I entered Kailene into the Manila Elementary School Storytelling Festival. She had to memorize a story and tell it to her Kindergarten class. It took about a week but she memorized the book "My mother never listens to me", with actions, and was ready to do it in front of her class. Her class loved it and since she was the only one (not only in her class but in the whole Kindergarten) to enter she moved on to the next round. She then had to tell her story in front of 3 judges. She was so nervous her legs were shaking. When we left the room, she told me that she should have thought of the judges in their underwear and maybe she wouldn't have been so nervous (advice from her older brother). The winner of the lower (K-3) and upper (4-6) was going to be announced during a school assembly. But, first, they wanted her to tell her story in front of the whole school. I wasn't sure she would be able to do it because she was nervous just to do it front of 3 judges. On the way to the school, which is less than a mile, she was crying and telling me she didn't want to do it. "I can't do it" she kept saying which my reply was " You CAN do anything you say you can." I told her she didn't have to do it but it's a cute story and she does a good job and everyone wants to hear her story. A little bit of bribery helped too. When they called her name she got up there and did the whole story all by herself. I only had to prompt her a couple of times. I was in shock. She did such an amazing job. I was so proud of her. I don't think I would have had the courage to do that. She won the lower division. She got a cool trophy which she is proud of and shows it to everyone. She now has to do her story in front of the storytelling festival judges, which she is not happy about because she is tired of during it and doesn't want to do it anymore. I only got her to do this video for Emma, her cousin in Texas. So here you go Emma. We miss you and wish you lived closer. Way to go, Kailene!

I'm a coupon clipper

2009-03-01T15:23:00.000-08:00

I have never been good at coupon clipping. Either I don't use the item that is on sale or I forget to bring it when I purchase the item. Lately, I have been looking at different websites and blogs on how to save money in groceries. I have been very hesitant because I don't know how to use coupons or how to "work the system" to get items for cheap or even free. I have decided to try it so I am starting out small and with very few purchases. I ventured out to Target, with coupons in hand, and got 10 bags of goldfish. The final cost for each bag was .79. So I thought, I could do this. Next mission was Progresso Soup at Smiths. It's on sale this week for $1.33 (regular price $1.65) and with a coupon from online it's $1.10 off. I bought 30 cans with the total of $8.10! That made each can 23cents! I saved over $42.00. Can you believe it! I am so excited! Not only did I save money in groceries but I have added to my food storage. Now for my next mission...

The dog that never died

2009-02-20T14:19:00.000-08:00

We have an apartment in our basement. The couple that lives downstairs own a dog, Max, a Texas Heeler. I really don't like dogs even though I grew up with many dogs, my favorites were 2 cocker spaniels named Canela and Sapo (Spanish names for Carmel and Toad...but that is for another blog). We own a dog as well. Actually we use to have 2 dogs but Stitch (a Golden Retriever) was too high maintenance so we sold him. Anyways, Max has become aggressive and barks at everyone. He also has learned how to jump the fence. So we told our renters that they probably better get rid of him. To our surprise, they told us they were going to "put him to sleep". Such a cruel thing, but then again I don't like dogs. The day they took him to the vet we told our kids that Max died. Kailene, who is so tender hearted, felt bad and wrote them a cute note for them (she is very creative and loves to write notes). We gave them cookies with the

note.

A couple days later, our renter came up and told us that he couldn't stand it any longer and had to go get Max. I guess they wait a couple of days before they put them to sleep. So now we still have Max (whose probably better off dead than alive) and have to explain to the kids that Max has resurrected from the dead. Good Grief!

We survived a YW Klondike!

2009-02-13T15:17:00.000-08:00

The first weekend in Feb, the YW went on a Klondike-like winter campout. Our bishop is great and thinks the YW should experience the same thing the scouts (YM) experience. We agree!, until we went on this campout.

We went up to Mutual Dell Friday night. We were sleeping burrito style (if you don't know what that is, just ask a scout) which we made the night before. We set those out and started dinner--burrito surprise. It actually tasted good but everything tastes good when you are camping. We sat around the camp fire telling scary stories and ate dessert (delicious peach cobbler). Then it was time for bed. I had been dreading this the whole time. I don't like camping, even in the summer time, so I don't know what I was thinking when I signed up to camp in the winter! It was really cold but the bishop promised us we would not get cold in our burritos. You first have to take all your clothes off and change into new dry clothes. Sweat will make you cold and usually you are sweating throughout the day (or what women do..."perspire"). That was a chore just to take all your layers off and then put on dry layers. Then getting into the your sleeping bags was strenuous. Let's just say it was a tight fit. Have you ever breathed you own air? It's not all that it's cracked up to be. It's like a coffin (picture below). I just layed there, breathing my own air, in the pitch dark trying to go to sleep. I couldn't breathe, so I would put my head out of the bag and get cold, go back in my sleeping bag and breathe my own air. Repeating this the whole night. I felt like I was suffocating to death! As you can imagine, I got no sleep and finally ended up (around 6am) going to my car. I LOVE HEATED SEATS! I couldn't sleep even though I was exhausted so I got out the Book of Mormon in the car and caught up on my reading.

Breakfast was good the next morning if you like eggs, bacon and cheese melted in butter! Look out high cholesterol, here I come. We packed up and went home after the kids got in some sledding. Talking to the girls, I don't think we will be doing this soon...or ever. But we were so grateful to the bishopric for giving us this opportunity. Let's not forget about bragging rights. It almost makes it worth it. Next time my suggestion will be a resort with manicures and pedicures. Maybe the young men should do that for an activity. Now I understand why boys should be boys and girls should be girls. I love being a girl!

I like the bathtub

2009-02-08T18:58:00.000-08:00

We went to the Draper Temple on Monday, Feb. 2. The kids were already out of school so we thought it would be a good time to go. It actually was a great time to go! Not too many people. We could walk through slowly and actually stay in each room a long time. What a beautiful temple! The woodwork is incredible. I think temples just keep getting better and better. What a blessing to be close to temples and to witness so many temples being built on the earth. Here are some pictures of our day at the temple...

The best part was afterwards we asked what the kids liked about the temple. Kailene said "I liked the bathtub!" Aren't kids adorable!

25 random things about me!

2009-02-04T16:56:00.000-08:00

1. I am a night owl
2. Most of my thoughts and ideas come in the shower
3. I LOVE playing games, and WINNING!
4. I love deep conversations and asking the 'hard questions'
5. I have to make my bed first thing in the morning, even before morning prayers
6. I love weeding, to show off the flowers. I love flowers in my garden
7. My family calls me Heavenly Father's child
8. I still have a tan line on my legs from an 80 mile bike ride I did 2 years ago!
9. I do not handle stress well. I to plan every detail and like to be in control
10. I look like my mom, when she was my age
11. I hate being the center of attention
12. I love surprising others but hate being surprised
13. I love a good sale
14. I hate shopping but like online shopping
15. I DVR Oprah every day (but haven't had the time to watch it. I think I am up to 10 episodes recorded)
16. I love hot chocolate. I even drink it in the summer time. I would rather be hot than cold.
17. My favorite holiday is the 4th of July
18. In Mexico City, I was 6th grade president of the American school. No one knew me but I had a great speech.
19. Least favorite chore: emptying the dishwasher
20. When I was 5 or 6, I sang with my mom at a women's convention honoring Sister Kimball. She gave me a kiss. I still have the dress I wore.
21. I do not cry in public. Don't know why. My husband can probably count on one hand the times he has seen me cry. I like to cry alone.
22. I hate driving in the car on long trips. It is boring and I get tired and stressed. And I hate stopping for bathroom breaks
23. I love seeing how people live.
24. In 7th grade, my ear piece from my glasses broke and I had to go to school for a couple weeks without it. Only one boy teased me but I just think he liked me.
25. I like a good back rub

2009-02-02T12:08:00.000-08:00

My First Scout Winter Campout

My Scouting campout was a lot of fun! We did a lot of stuff. As soon as we got up there, we unpacked all our stuff and hiked it all up the mountain. It seriously took FOREVER! But once we got up there and got the fire started it was pretty fun. We had hot dogs, soup, chili, burritos, chicken, and most of all, Marshmallows! But the next day, it literally poured a ton of water on us. The rain got so bad that we left that morning. It was still fun.

Love is in the air...

2009-01-28T21:15:00.000-08:00

My 4 year old daughter said to me that she kissed the neighbor boy. I started prying a little bit and asked her to show me where she kissed the boy. She showed me that she kissed him on the lips and he kissed her on the cheek. She said they were playing 'Brad and Brandalee'. Brad and Brandalee are my sister and brother-in-law who have been married for about 9 months! Now I know you are all saying that's nice!, that they are newleyweds and are entitled to be lovey-dovey and hold hands, kiss, hug, wihisper sweet nothings of love and affection to each other. That's all fine to do because they are married, right? Wrong and I will explain why. You have to understand that I am a huge fan of no PDA. It makes me uncomfortable and I always feel it's fake because behind close doors tells another story. Now I'm not talking about holding hands or giving your husband a "you look so good tonight" look (you all know what I mean). What I am talking about are those that can't keep their hands off each other, bodies are tangled up on the couch, or kiss after each sentence. The world does not need to see that you love each other. I don't need to see that you love each other. And apparently, my 4 year old doesn't need to see that you love each other. Don't get me wrong, it's great to be in love and show love to each other. I love LOVE and love being in love. Even my motto in life is centered around my favorite quote, "The Greatest thing in life is to love and to be loved in return". I'm just asking to show your love to each other at home in your own private quarters, please. I could not agree more with the statement-Get your own room! And now that I have a child who thinks it's okay to do something that she sees others do, I may have to lock her up until she's 30! So if you happen to be around my children, tone it down, please. They seem to act out what they see. The funny part is Paul and I kiss at home and show our affection to each other in front of her but yet she wasn't playing Mom and Dad, she was playing my sister and brother-in-law. I explained to her that only people who are married can kiss. I'm not sure if she got it. Oh no, she's only 4 and already demanding love and affection from a boy. What am I going to do?!?

Superboy and Supergirl

2009-01-28T21:05:00.000-08:00

Preston and Kailene came up from downstairs dressed like this, running through the house yelling "Superboy and Supergirl" They tried to get their capes up as high as possible so they would run faster and fly (or land, darn that gravity) onto the couch. They even came up with a song except Preston kept messing up and not doing it right so supergirl (aka Kailene) got mad at him. I'm glad they had fun!

Chocolate Fountain + White Shirt + Preston = Disaster!

2009-01-12T14:19:00.000-08:00

I called it-chocolate fountain and Preston don't mix. This past weekend we went up to Idaho for Tyler's wedding (Paul's youngest brother). At the reception there was a huge chocolate fountain. I thought I could stand by the fountain all night and monitor it or just let the kids go at it and pay for it later. I opted to let the kids have fun and eat until they got sick or until it was over, whichever came first. I'm trying not to be so uptight and I think I did pretty well. After the first couple of spills on Preston's shirt, I gave up. He was really good the whole reception. Even the car ride up and back to Utah was very manageable. It was a wonderful wedding and a beautiful reception.

Tyler and Jacquel and all the nieces and nephews.

2009-01-03T18:28:00.001-08:00

This is rare, and I mean RARE, footage. As most of my family and friends know, I do not like PDA! So, this was very out-of-the-ordinary for me. It's a new year, why not? I think I had too much to drink.

The kids decided to camp out under the pool table for a little shut eye. Kailene and Sterling slept through the whole celebrations (and we were loud).

We could make a mess and not have to clean it up.

Happy New Year! This year we rented a room at Noah's (highly recommended) for the night. We played pool, played games, watched movies, and celebrated the New Year together. It was so much fun.