ALLXYS

ROUTINE

2012-01-30T14:24:00.000-08:00

As much as I enjoy the carefree days of a school break, I really enjoy the routine of our school days. Kyler is the first to be picked up every day. On the way home we chat...and play "chiquita" (a game of spotting yellow cars and yelling out "chiquita") At home, Kyler empties his lunchbox and puts it away. Then a 10 minute break followed by homework. The goal is to only have his reading left which is what he does in the van on the way to pick up his brothers. Currently Kyler is reading The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Well, Kyler's 10 minute break is up and it's time to get to work with that boy....Later!!!

SICK DAY

2012-01-30T07:34:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a sick day for me. Not fun. Thankfully, I did get plenty of rest and my fever broke. (I can't remember the last time I had a fever) I'm also thankful that I seem to be doing much better today. Even so, I plan on lounging in my pajamas, reading, napping and maybe watching a movie. Moving on....the citrus is in full force here in the Valley of the Sun and I'm loving it!!!! Last week we made the best Lemon-grapefruit-ade ever!!!! So delicious. I also wanted lemon meringue pie....really bad, but not the crust part, just the lemon meringue part. So that's what I did.

I adore my mini triffle bowls!

(and I was lucky enough to score 4 more of them when I was out thrifting on Saturday!)

I was so proud of these!

Too bad my kids didn't like them.....oh wait, that's GREAT...

Sharing is over-rated!

AFTER SCHOOL EVENTS

2012-01-24T21:13:00.000-08:00

The School Science Fair.

We're happy to attend with our kids, but I would like more notice than a few hours! Oh well. Kyler and I drove to his school and met Tony there. We found his class project and got a cute picture of Ky.

Here was the first photo.

That's Kyler!

This is the real reason he wanted to be at the Science Fair.

Kyler and KJ....his poor teacher!

Now moving on to the boys FAVORITE after school event:

QT!!!!!!

They ~~begged~~ asked if we could go to QT, today I felt generous. Not that generous that I paid for it, the boys paid for their own goodies. On the menu today: 1/2 price donuts (after 4pm....SCORE!) and soda for two of the boys. Here's Colton's choice.

Asher's

And finally, Kyler.

Tonight we went for our first family trek walk. We didn't go too far, but we'll be back on it tomorrow. I'll explain more about the family trek we're doing soon. Happy Tuesday!

YOU BLOCKHEAD!

2012-01-13T07:45:00.000-08:00

Have you ever played Blockhead? There are 20 shaped wooden pieces that you stack on top of each other. The person who makes the creation fall is the blockhead. We played it all the time as kids, but I didn't know anyone else that had ever heard of this game! My mom has saved it all these years and all the grandkids love it. Kyler loves it so much that when we came across a box at Goodwill....we had to buy it for him. It was so worth it to see how excited he was when he opened it!

The box from my childhood game is a little different, but it was copywrited in 1971. This vintage box (that's in much better shape than my mom's box) was copywrited in 1954. Also, the game not only had all of it's pieces, but they were still pretty vibrant for being nearly 60 years old. My guess is this game has been hiding in someone's house for years before it was donated.

Tony and Kyler had lots of fun making the blocks look like the photo. This game has probably been played with more at our home in the past few weeks than it ever was before! Thank you Goodwill....you make Kyler happy!

Moving on to what Kyler does that makes me happy...the other night I realized the leftovers were piling up in the fridge. A quick change to my Wednesday dinner plans and leftovers were on the menu. I was busy that afternoon and Kyler took it upon himself to "make" dinner for me. First, he set the "table". I was busy with projects and our table was occupied, so Kyler set up the four tv trays and went to work. I love how he put the spoon upside-down.

Next, he grabbed all the leftovers and put them on the kitchen island. Voila, dinner is served!!!! The gentleman even brought the grape drink to your table for you. What service!

You'll be happy to know that the table is cleared and one more project is done here at the House of Steve. A couple of weeks ago, Tony and I reorganized our garage. Shelves were moved in their new places and lots of rearranging took place. All the big moving was done, but now it's all the detail work for me. Yesterday I finished the organizing of the two big shelves of dishes/kitchen items. Everything's inventoried and ready to go. So along with our fabulous dinner last night of Turkey Sloppy Joe's and Baked Sweet Potato Fries, we had a fabulous table top. We used the red gingham dishes, paired with the blue gingham flatware and...

a red and blue serving set that was filled with lettuce, cucumber slices, blue cheese dressing and apple slices. Every bit of the fruit and veggies were eaten!

Can't wait to see what dishes I pull out for tonight!

2012 WORDS

2012-01-11T08:16:00.000-08:00

(Christopher Creek May 2010 - nothing to do with the post, just liked the photo)

Last year my sister in law gave me the idea of choosing a word to focus on for the year instead of setting lofty New Year's resolutions. I had just attended my Mita's funeral and I immediately knew what my 2011 word would be - "DO". My favorite saying for the year was Wake Up and Do Something More! Since I enjoyed it so much last year, I decided that I would find a word for 2012 as well. Finding 2012's word wasn't as quick, but I did find it - "ENOUGH". As in I am enough, I have enough, My best is enough. (As opposed to the popular phrases "I'VE HAD ENOUGH!"; "NO MORE, ENOUGH!" or just plain "ENOUGH!!!!!!") I asked my family if they would like to participate and find words of their own.

They did.

Presenting the Stock's 2012 words:

Anthony: ACTION

Nicole: ENOUGH

Colton: DATE

(guess who will be sixteen soon!)

Asher: TOLERANT

Kyler: MISSION

(in honor of his Uncle Austin serving in the Roseville CA Spanish-speaking Mission)

I can't wait to see what my family accomplishes with this focus in 2012!

SANITY RESTORED!!!!!

2012-01-10T06:09:00.000-08:00

I completely adore these boys.....

but after 2 1/2 weeks of school break...

School days are happy days!!!!!

Sanity Restored.

OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW (AND IT MIGHT BE TIME TO HEAD BACK TO SCHOOL)

2012-01-06T08:44:00.000-08:00

Warning: There is a very long post to go with that very long title!

First, out with the old, in with the new.....CROCK POT! (Actually it's a slow cooker, Crock Pot is a brand of slow cooker. Yep, I just learned that...I know...fascinating!) Back in August of 1989, Tony and I received multiple crock pots (yep, I know it's a slow cooker, but I'm still calling it a crock pot!) We didn't receive a clock or a toaster, but crock pots...no problem! We regifted a few (there is NOTHING wrong with that) and returned a few. I was very particular about which one to keep. I didn't want the huge ones, since it was only the two of us. I chose this sleek little model. (which is bigger than you think)

There were many features I liked with this one...and I also thought it was good looking! Ahh, young, naive love.

The base of the crock pot was a little griddle. I imagined that I might one day make pancakes on it or fry an egg. Of course you always have grand imaginations at the beginning of a relationship. But in reality, we never made pancakes together....and we didn't hear the sizzle of one egg frying.

That's ok because the lid could be used as a small casserole dish. Again, perfect for a couple! The feature that I grew to love the most was the dial. It starts at 1 (low) and went up to 5 (high). You could select any number 1-5. I used that feature all the time. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my crock pot and had no desire to change, but it sadly started to give out and I couldn't trust it anymore. You know what they say, once the trust is gone - it's all over! It's not easy saying goodbye. We've been together nearly 22 1/2 years!

Enter the new crock pot. You can time your cooking up to 20 hours and when it's done with the cooking, it turns to the keep warm setting. It's also HUGE! The hardest thing I'm getting used to (aside from it's size and I don't have a place to put it since it doesn't fit where my old crock pot was stored) is that it only has a Low and High setting. What?!? Where's my Low-Med, Med or Med-High?

So I couldn't always trust my old crock pot? Was trust THAT important? Did I move on too soon? Did I throw away 22 1/2 years for NOTHING?!?

Like it or not....this is my new crock pot. I hope we bond soon! I'm not sure what the statistics are with 2nd crock pots relationships.....maybe it's best I don't know.

Moving on....

Our Secret Santa gave us a pre-built gingerbread house one night and we were always too busy to decorate it. Finally the time came and the boys were able to have at it. They loved their gingerbread men (thanks, Shrek)

Here's Asher's Gingy!

Apparently there's no love lost between Kyler and his gingerbread man.

Ash & Gingy

Kyler getting ready to take another bite out of his friend!

Now on to last night....and what my family called Thanksgiving Jr.

We cooked up a turkey that Jacquelen gave us...THANKS, JACQUELEN! I was busy taking down Christmas and reorganizing all my boxes of decorations all day. The last thing I wanted was to take a long time for dinner. I made it very easy on myself.....stove top, instant potatoes and crescent rolls. Then I just washed and seasoned the turkey, threw it in a cooking bag and walked away. It was a very easy dinner to get on the table. I enjoyed every bit of it, but I did feel that it is worth every minute I spend on homemade stuffing, mashed potatoes and rolls! (i don't think my boys palates are as discerning)

YUM! I can't wait for leftovers!!!!

And finally....it might be time to head back to school when your children are drawing chalk outlines all over the driveway!

Here's Kyler

It did keep them occupied....but I have no idea what the neighbors think!

And when your 15 year-old wears a 5 year-old's bear mask.....

I think it means....I'M BORED....GET ME BACK TO SCHOOL! Well at least that's what I think. Monday morning I will ~~happily~~ reluctantly say good bye to my little ~~monkeys~~ angels. ~~YAHOO!!!!!~~ Sniff, sniff.

CHRISTMAS DAY 2011

2011-12-28T13:53:00.000-08:00

Santa was here!

He even wrote a message to Kyler with the glow sticks..

Thanks Kyler

Love Santa

He also drank most of the milk Kyler left him....

and most of the cookies!

(Kyler has a white air head in his mouth - Santa brought him that in his stocking)

After church, the boys opened their three gifts each and their stockings and then went to Mamita's garage to find a gift to share. A basketball hoop!

Kyler even got a jr. basketball....I think it might bounce better if he took it out of the package!

This dish is becoming a Christmas Day Tradition. Homemade Chicken Teriyaki!!!!! Delish!

This is how the boys spent Christmas afternoon and evening...video games.

This isn't the picture I had in mind when I bought their pajamas!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

23RD & 24TH DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-25T23:13:00.000-08:00

Busy, Busy, Busy would describe our household during the 23rd and 24th Days of Christmas. We've been preparing for the 60 relatives that will grace our home on Christmas Eve. The kids were so excited (so were the parents!) for our 12th and final day of Secret Santa on the 23rd. We were at a White Elephant game with cousins and came home to 12 Drummers Drumming and Drumsticks! I was hoping to find out who our Secret Santa was...but no such luck. The past 12 days with our Secret Santa spoiling us was so much fun.

We pushed forward with final preparations for our Christmas Eve Extravaganza 2011! and had the Best Christmas Eve ever!!!! All 60 guests arrived and it was spectacular! Lots of food & treats, kids & laughter, and my favorite - adult conversation. We had two baby Jesus's this year and Emily put two nativities side by side for our program. I don't know who's more excited for the play - the kids or the adults. Great job to all the great-grandkids! After our home cleared of nearly all our guests, we had a knock at the door. Who could it be?!? ANOTHER SECRET SANTA!!! They dropped a gift at our door - a huge container of cookies & creme ice cream, a gift card and a card from...

Santa!

Whoever you are.....THANK YOU! I don't know why you chose our family to spoil rotten, but we're glad you did. It meant so much that you thought of us. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

I just wanted to share Kyler's preparations for Santa. He wrote two notes to put on the fridge for Santa. The first one reads...

We gave you the milk not that you deserved but the one you needed. The cookies are on the table. From: Kyler To: Santa (it's from some Batman thing) and the second note says...

From: Kyler

To: Santa

Your milk is in the fridge.

Don't open the freezer!

Then he took all the glow sticks he could find (thanks Jacquelen!!!) and wrote this message on the family room floor.

SANTA

LOVE

KYLER

I can't wait to see what Santa does as a response!

I was inspired by Kyler's glowing message and took a couple photos of decorations that glow.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE!!!

21ST & 22ND DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-23T19:57:00.000-08:00

We're enjoying such a wonderful Christmas season over here! It's been full of family, friends and fun!!!! The boys have been so busy with school and once they finished Wednesday we've been going full blast it's hard to stop and blog. We've had a white elephant party, Bounce U with cousins, just hangin' out, lunch to Blue Adobe and we visited the court house, and that's just the last 48 hours! My cousin and her husband were blessed to finalize the adoption of their three little kiddos on Thursday. It was so sweet and I really appreciated being there and thinking of our own special adoption day seven days ago.

The 11th Day of Christmas brought us hot cocoa packets with candy canes!

Don't worry, I didn't forget about the 10th Day of Secret Santa....we got this cool shaped puzzle. I'm going to set up my 4 foot table to work on it after Christmas.

I'll post soon about the 23rd Day of Christmas and our final day of Secret Santa. We're busy with preparations for our big Christmas Eve family celebration. We our hosting 60 people this year.....that's right.....SIXTY!!!!! 28 Kids and 32 Adults.

Merry 21st & 22nd Days of Christmas!

20TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-21T06:26:00.000-08:00

FINALS!!!!!

I'm thankful that they'll be over today!!!

I think I'm more nervous for my kids then I ever was for myself. By 12:30 today, Colton and Asher will be on Christmas Break and Kyler will join us by 2:40. I'll be so happy to be done with textbooks, homework and studying for a little bit...not to mention the driving! Well, there will be a lot of driving still....Colton has his driver's permit and volunteers to drive ALL THE TIME! I'm sure he'll get many opportunities during the next couple of weeks. The next thing I want to share is....

SPOILED!!!!

We have been so spoiled this holiday season! We have a great Secret Santa and everyone loves the anticipation of our nightly gift. I also had a visit from our Relief Society Presidency. They brought this beautiful basket! Thank you for making my night, ladies!

It was full of apples, oranges and cuties with some lemon "muddy buddys" and M&M's. I don't know what I could have done to deserve such a gift, THANK YOU!

And what did our Secret Santa think of for 9 Ladies Dancing.....and iTunes gift card and big sparklers!!!!

Merry 20th Day of Christmas!!!!!

19TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-20T08:54:00.000-08:00

I had a little fun in the kitchen today! First up was this Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats. They were really delicious and I think I'll need to pick up some more peppermint marshmallows for a second batch. You can find this recipe here.

Next, some flavored popcorns!

This one is BerryBlue, but it turned out green.

Here's Strawberry, I think it tastes like crunch berry cereal.

And finally, Vanilla! This one is my favorite....and Kyler's. You have to fight him for a piece!

And last, but certainly not least....Secret Santa. 8 Maids-a-Milking brought us Blue Bell ice cream and Milk Duds!!!! I see ice cream sundaes in our future. Thanks, Secret Santa!!!!

Hope your 19th Day of Christmas was wonderful!!!!!

17TH & 18TH DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-18T19:35:00.000-08:00

The 17th Day of Christmas was busy (which day isn't busy?!?). We started with a Ward Christmas Party, then helped a woman move and Tony and I were back to a little elf duty. Our Secret Santas came with a gift for six geese a laying.....6 eggs (from a hen, not a goose) and this book. So true!

Sometimes I feel just like this!!!

Today was the 18th Day of Christmas (and our 7th Day of Secret Santa). We had an enjoyable time at church: a missionary farewell and my farewell with several of my nursery kids. I can't believe they'll be in Sunbeams on the 1st. I think I'll like the smaller nursery, but I'm really going to miss those 3 year olds! The kids were really anticipating Secret Santa tonight...especially since it was a quiet afternoon. What could it be?!?

A Pre-built Gingerbread House Kit!!!!!

Secret Santa....YOU ROCK!!!!!

This was on my list of things to do with the kids this year. We're going to decorate this for FHE tomorrow night and CHECK! We're marking this off the list!!!

Even Roscoe's excited about this!

Merry 17th & 18th Days of Christmas!!!

16TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-17T17:37:00.000-08:00

Every year when we go to see the Temple Lights, I always check out the nativity display in the visitor center. Every year it's crowded....way crowded....and I'm trying to look and enjoy it, but my boys are dragging their feet complaining that they want to go. A few days ago I had a brilliant idea....go to the nativity display during the day when they're at school. (seriously....why did it take so long to figure that one out!) That's just what I did on Friday. It was so peaceful...and quick! I think I might have to check it out again on Monday, just because I can. This one is from Italy and was displayed on a huge table with a beautiful backdrop in place.

I love seeing all the different mediums, like this leather one.

This one is too cute with all the kids performing the nativity. I think I need to make one like this of all the grandkids.

Friday was also the night of the Winter Dance for Colton and Asher. Neither of these teenagers would let me take their photo earlier, so I snapped away in the car on the way there!

Colton

Asher

I think they looked great! Mamita spoiled them with the new shirts for the dance. It was the first time I got them out clothes shopping without a complaint. They must be growing up! Now onto Secret Santa.....5 GOLDEN RINGS meant a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts! We are all loving this Secret Santa...THANK YOU!!!!!

Random note: Tony and I checked out a Goodwill (it's a 50% off day after all) and I found this craft. An advent for your dog!!!! I think Roscoe needs this next year. The only problem....he doesn't like dog biscuits!!! If we filled it with human food, he'd be thrilled. We'll see.

Merry 16th Day!

15TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-16T07:41:00.000-08:00

On the 15th day I ventured to.......THE MALL! Shocking for me since I rarely go shopping. Mall shopping is even rarer still, but I had a store to visit and it was here. I had my shopping buddy with me, Mister Kyler Man....doesn't he look happy?!? As we were leaving the mall he said he couldn't wait until he was rich and he could live here...in the food court. Go, Kyler!

After our 3rd Day of Secret Santa Kyler asked me what the song said for the 4th day. I'm sure he wanted to venture a guess on what the next's day gift would be. Well, I told him 4 calling birds and then said "Calling birds.....I think they're going to give us a cell phone!!!!!!" (big joke since we don't have a cell phone and no one can understand this concept) Kyler said...."they'll give us FOUR! I call one!!!" I quickly let him know I was kidding and we would not be receiving cell phones as a Secret Santa gift. Evening came and so did the ring of the doorbell. What could it be?!?

A gorgeous bird calendar!

I LOVE IT!!!!

(and claimed it for my scrap room)

Here's a quick look at the years pictures.

Tony and I put together our first snowman today. It will be Tony's holiday decoration for his desk.

We call it Desert Snowman!

Do you see his hat, carrot nose, coal eyes and buttons floating around? (Well, we think we're funny!)

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!!

14TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-15T06:28:00.000-08:00

First, Tony and I finally took our elf responsibilities seriously yesterday. Santa would be proud of the progress that was made in one short day! To top it all off, the girls at the ward were offering free babysitting last night. SCORE! We happily dropped Kyler off for two hours, dropped Colton and Asher at Scouts and then...FREEDOM! Kyler was happy to be at the church, just a little bit worried that he'd miss our Secret Santa. I love all the yummy things our Secret Santa has brought to us - like the third day - three loaves of french bread! Asher enjoyed cocoa and bread last night before bed.

Mita would have been proud!

Thank you Secret Santa!

and in the words of Kyler....

Happy Friday Eve!!!!

12TH & 13TH DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-13T18:05:00.000-08:00

The 12th day was all about friends! We spent our afternoon and part of our evening enjoying the company of friends. After we were home for a little bit the doorbell rang. This is what we found. We have no idea who our Secret Santa is....isn't this fun!

The 13th day was full of anticipation.....would our Secret Santa appear again?!? The doorbell rang, the dog went crazy and we found a wrapped gift at the door. Turtles for two turtle doves......YUM!

Thanks Secret Santa!!!!!

10TH & 11TH DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-11T22:24:00.000-08:00

I love weekends! When I think of weekends, I think TIME.....I don't know why though. Time flies by too fast. I can spend more time driving kids all over on Saturday then on a school day. Then Sunday night rolls around and I can't wait for everyone to go back to work/school and I can have some TIME! This weekend was all about the Christmas decorations. Sure we put the outdoor lights up and had the nativities set up, but nothing else. Kyler was very concerned about this. After church he asked if we could put up our tree and when I said yes, he jumped up and down with pure joy. I love that boy and his joy!!! This year I put Kyler in charge of the tree. He was so happy and went right to work bossing everyone around. His favorite ornaments are the ones from 2004 to now. He only likes the ones he's represented in, like this one. This ornament was our family ornament from 2004 with our new baby Kyler. (my favorite family ornament is with our whole family as polar bears....and one of us is decapitated...Kyler must have been a toddler, I always have decapitated decorations when my kids are toddlers!)

Here's Kyler's tree!

I wish my kids would like to be in charge of others things....like laundry!

Merry 10th & 11th Days of Christmas!

9TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-10T07:34:00.000-08:00

On the 9th Day of Christmas we went to a White Elephant gift exchange....and look what I brought home - A MITA TREE......or a Charlie Brown tree. I love it!!!!

8TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-09T07:05:00.000-08:00

This is where the boys have been doing service lately....

but last night they served Mamita in her home (not "home" as in nursing home....well, not yet...heehee) They took her washer (the same washer that flooded her house) and dryer out of the home and the two shelves that were above them. I love that my family is happy to serve others!

7TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-07T22:03:00.000-08:00

My Nativity Collection!

I finally made some time to pull them out of the garage and set them up. In case you were wondering....this isn't the bulk of my collection....

THIS IS!

I think I counted 42 versions on this table.

I really should photograph all of them one day. I love all of them, but I'll just share a few tonight. Here are the bears - front and center. I bought this set at Bear Country in South Dakota, Summer 2008.

I found this set in a little boutique in Utah - October 2004.

This was one from my home as a little girl.

This year I've already been tempted and bought 2 new nativities. First, a glittery Holy Family...

and a clay nativity.

It always feels more like Christmas when I put up the nativities. Merry 7th Day of Christmas!

6TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-06T18:26:00.000-08:00

I think I've found my MOST FAVORITE tradition...

Getting a massage!!!!!!

I had such a relaxing afternoon getting pampered and my mom was even able to join me. Neither of us wanted to do anything afterwards. Thankfully we were excited to move on to the next treat...

FREE BAHAMA BUCKS!!!!!

It's the most delicious shaved ice and it was FREE!!! (yes, dad....it's my favorite word right now!) I had 1/2 coconut cream pie and 1/2 strawberry daquiri with creme on it. DELICIOUS! (I think mom had black cherry and raspberry with creme) I even ran into lots of friends while I was there. When I got home I discovered Tony and the boys missing. About 20 minutes later they walked in with their Bahama Bucks!

We seem to be all over the place today. Tony picked up the boys for me, Kyler was at a friends for part of the afternoon, we went to Bahama Buck's separately and now Asher's seeing a performance of The Wizard of Oz with his friend's family. I wish that it was a rare occurrence around here...but it's not. Tomorrow the boys going in different directions for Scouts. (side note: Colton just received the Save the Date for Prom in April.......and he'll be 16 and could really go if he wanted to.......I'M NOT READY FOR THIS!)

Merry 6th Day of Christmas!

2 KINDS OF ARIZONA SNOW

2011-12-06T07:33:00.000-08:00

First, the other day I looked outside and saw "snow" falling down. Tons of tiny little leaves were blowing off the trees and off my rooftop. I wish I could have captured it better than this. (I NEED A NEW CAMERA!) Anyways, Roscoe was going crazy and had to run out in them. It was so cute!

Roscoe's head looks a little small....we're in the middle of grooming him (always at least a three part process) and only the fur on his head was trimmed up. You should see how skinny his little legs look now!

Even he gives me the look like, "really....another photo"

Here's his new tie....love the psycho stink eye.

Second, it's FREE SNO DAY!!!!!!! Bahama Bucks is giving away a free 12 oz. shaved ice to everyone that shows up. I'm so there!!!!! We don't even care that our high will be 54 degrees with a low of 29....it's FREE SNO!!!!! And sooooo delicious!!!!! We just found out about them this summer and have eaten a lot of sno since then. I've even shared it with you here. Well, if you're in Arizona, make sure you go and get some FREE SNO!!!!!!! (you're welcome!)

5TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-05T18:54:00.000-08:00

4TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-05T07:39:00.000-08:00

The only channel that I really miss without satellite is BYU-TV. Not that I watched it all the time, but I loved being in my own home to watch the General Relief Society Broadcast, General Conference and the Christmas Devotional. I was so thrilled when I saw that I could put the Mormon Channel on my Roku (with Netflix). We've enjoyed the channel, especially on Sunday! But I was so excited to watch the Christmas Devotional with my family in my home. It was a perfect end to a great Sabbath day.

3RD DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-03T21:03:00.000-08:00

I was so excited for this today....we were bell ringers for the Salvation Army this afternoon! Colton and Asher's school asked for volunteers for one of three shifts and I signed us up for the 2-4 slot. The only issue was the weather.....IT WAS SO COLD!!!!!!! (for Arizona) Kyler ended up in the van most of the time. I was so proud of all the boys for volunteering! I think they even liked it.....even though this photo doesn't show that very well.

Kyler was so cute ringing the bell! (don't tell him I called him cute....he won't appreciate it.)

Great job, Stock Family!!!!

2ND DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-02T22:23:00.000-08:00

No pictures today, but we all had a great evening. Tony and I went to dinner for my work Christmas party. We had great food and lots of great conversation. Cousins are the best!!!!! My mom surprised the boys with dinner out. Before we left they had discussed going to Olive Garden, but Kyler wasn't happy with that. We really thought the older boys would win out, I don't know how we could have doubted Kyler! They all ate at Fatburger - yummy burgers, delicious fries and shakes. Then the boys came home to watch the last Harry Potter. Fun evening for all!!!

1ST DAY OF CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-01T21:21:00.000-08:00

Tonight was a busy night! The Annual Tamale Dinner at Colton and Asher's school and the Relief Society Progressive Dinner. Tony took the boys to enjoy tamales, beans, rice, chips & salsa. They even had pinatas after the meal and Kyler was so happy to beat it open. He came home with tons of candy, we could barely close the gallon bag! Of course we have no photos, but this was earlier today when we picked the boys up. Kyler wanted to read on the stairs and all was well until he heard the footsteps....

then he moved his little booty as fast as he could out of the path of the Jr. High herd!

Our RS dinner was very delicious and very fun! It was a great opportunity to wear my blinged out necklace from Audra's wedding. The RS gave us advent candles as a gift to light and read a scripture each night with our family. I joked with my friends that I would light the candle every night as I slipped into a bubble bath, but as soon as I got home the whole family gathered to light the candle and read the scripture. We even read a short Christmas story after that and they opened the first window in their chocolate advent. We were on such a roll that we all jumped in the van and drove around the neighborhood looking at Christmas lights.

Just before bed Kyler needed this photo taken. I'm not sure what he's doing.....is he an angel? is he the ruler? is he just 7?

It was a great start to our 25 Days of Christmas!

PRE-25 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS POST

2011-12-01T10:03:00.000-08:00

I can't wait to start the 25 days of Christmas tonight....but for now, I'm going to post a few random things. Here goes...

My Halloween Banner.

I finally finished it this year. Isn't it so cute on the piano!

A closer view...

and even closer!

While I was busy getting a little work done, Colton kept himself entertained.

It's really killing me that he's growing up so fast.....he's much taller than me now.

Oh these two! They are very lively...and very loud.

Kyler wants to be just like his brothers....in EVERY way! Colton and Asher have been getting more lectures than normal lately and Kyler didn't want to be left out. As I asked him to pick something up he said "Stop, Puncturing Me!" I told him that the word he was looking for was "lecture", he let me know that he wanted the word to start with a "P". OK, then.

Then the other day Kyler kept feeling the skin under his arm. When I asked what he was doing he replied, "Just feeling the hair under my arms" I told him he didn't have hair under his arm, he was very bold about letting me know he did and invited me to feel. I did and let him know that was dry skin, he replied "no, it's dead hair" What is he going to come up with next?!?

Well, I bid you goodbye from the House of Steve.

Tonight will start the 25 Days of Christmas!

Hopefully they won't all be as humiliating as this!

Don't you love when even your dog looks embarrassed. Poor Roscoe!

THANKSGIVING 2011

2011-12-01T09:36:00.000-08:00

I couldn't take the Thanksgiving decorations down without recording it this year. I love Thanksgiving! Here's our table near the front door.

I love these blinged out pumpkins so much!

Decorations on the hoosier in the front room. The framed pumpkin is new this year. It didn't turn out exactly as I imagined....but I like it.

Can you tell that it's a bronze glittered frame?

Our fireplace....again, I LOVE these pumpkins!

Another bronze glitter creation.....not as happy with this one....or the product. I do love that little pumpkin. Real Deals was a great store for little items like that, I miss them!

Kyler was the one that demanded we decorate. This was his masterpiece.

King of the Pinecone

Colton squirrel

Sneaky little Kyler squirrel

New Teenage Asher Squirrel

Udder Buddy

(he's always on our mantel.....because of this movie)

Favorite morning tradition for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day -

GO TO THE MOVIES!!!!

We're so sad we won't be able to go on Christmas (it's on Sunday - we'll go on Saturday or Monday though), but we made it to Puss in Boots Thanksgiving morning. Kyler was so upset that we wanted to see the new Muppet Movie...but we ended up seeing the Muppets on Saturday. (and yes, he LOVED it!)

Silly Kyler!

After the movie, we came home to enjoy the Thanksgiving spread. I'm so proud of my new placemats. I saw them all over the blogs and really wanted them. My mom made them and I stamped them. I used six different words and 3 different styles...what do you think?

Another craft I knew I had to do, this idea came from here. I really love mine, too bad I forgot to put them out on the kids table. Oh well, they're ready for next year!

I love reflecting all month on what I'm grateful for and family tops the list. Our family hosts the extended family for dessert on Thanksgiving evening. It's lots of fun, lots of goodies and lots of noise!

(my dad sent me this plant in January when my Mita died and it's been my mission to keep it alive for at least a year {don't know why - just roll with it}....it's still alive and I have a little over a month to be successful!)

And for the finale: Kyler's Thankful Turkey.

It was his present to us this year.

This is what he's most thankful for...

Turkey

Santa

Money

Santa

Food

My Birthday

Presents

Bakon (bacon)

(and last, but certainly not least to Kyler....)

I am thankful for me.

Well, it's true what they say...

To know Kyler is to Love him!

A WEEK IN NOVEMBER

2011-11-16T08:26:00.000-08:00

While my mom was looking at several stores for a table, she stumbled across this child sized leather club chair with ottoman. She bought the chair and was supposed to take it to her home....guess who is in possession of the chair now?!? It is a gross understatement that he loves this chair. I told him if he doesn't treat it right that it will go to Mamita's home. He's not only careful with it, but he makes sure that everyone is careful. He couldn't even move from the chair once it was in our family room, so he slept in it. He also loves watching tv with the remote firmly in his grasp. I'm sure we'll see more photos of him in this chair.

Last week was Kyler's 2nd grade field trip to the Pioneer Village Living History Museum. I had never heard of this museum, but it definitely interested me. I grew up watching and reading about Laura Ingalls and her Little House on the Prairie. I would have loved to see this place as a kid. Imagine my surprise to find out that the museum has been around since the mid-1960's AND both of my parents knew about it. One would think that one's parents would take them to such a place if one were crazy about Little House on the Prairie.....wouldn't one?!? Instead, one must wait until they are 41, have a 2nd grader, be willing to ride on a bus with two classes of kids and chaperone five of those children around the museum. I had a great time despite needed lots of extra strength meds to drive out my headache that night. Here are my 5 in front of the Victorian Home. As soon as they walked through the home, they noticed that the woman volunteering there had put her cell phone and thirstbuster in the kitchen. All of my kids started making comments "I didn't know their cell phones looked like that back then" "Wow, they had Circle K's back then" The volunteer was completely embarrassed and moved her belongings out of sight.

This has got to be my most favorite picture of the day. The kids visited the school house and another volunteer gave a brief lesson on Arizona. I started taking pictures, but it's when Kyler looked back and gave me that look that I knew I had captured it! The embarrassment of your mom being on your field trip.

You're welcome!

Here's their church, which was getting all gussied up for a wedding the next day. In fact, since the next day was 11-11-11, they had five weddings scheduled. Doesn't this church remind you of a church on a tv show? Maybe something from the 70's? With a cute little girl and her family, living on a prairie perhaps? It was a great day and I enjoyed being there with Kyler and his class. Before we had lunch, the kids were able to watch a gun fight. They were so excited and it was cute to hear the boys talk while they were eating about the tweeks they would like to make to the show. They all had to do with adding ketchup, so when people were shot they could have "blood" splatter. Appetizing lunch talk! Now to something more appetizing...

Introducing.....The B.E.A.S.T.

(Bacon, Egg-Salad, Avocado, Spinach and Tomato)

I had found a recipe for Egg-Salad BLT's but instead of lettuce I used spinach. We loved them and Colton renamed the sandwich B.E.S.T. While that was delicious, we decided to add some avocado to it and behold.....The B.E.A.S.T. was born!

You're welcome!

HALLOWEEN 2011

2011-11-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

Another Halloween, here and gone and I'm down to my last trick or treater.

IT'S BATMAN!

(with the most gorgeous blue eyes!)

He's supposed to be the only trick or treater out of the Stock boys. Colton and Asher both were at friends houses and went trick or treating! Oh well! Here's another shot of my batman. We had costumes for Kyler to chose from since I told him we wouldn't be buying a new costume this year. He was excited about mixing costumes together and coming up with his own creation. He settled on Super Dino Iron Man and was going to wear his Superman costume with his Iron Man mask and his Dinosaur hat. I loved it and he was proud of his creativity. Then the Party City ad came to the house. He NEEDED a new costume. I said he was welcome to buy his own costume if he wanted. He did some extra chores for his brothers to earn a little bit more money and off to Party City he went with his dad. They finally came home with a Batman muscle costume that had been clearanced. I'm proud of the little boy for earning his money and being a bargain shopper! He was proud for a few seconds and now loves to tell everyone his sob story about his mean mom that wouldn't buy him a costume!

Boo hoo, little boy!

Colton with his skull mask....getting a lot of Halloween's out of this one!

Asher's last minute future missionary costume.

That's what he said it was.....he's 13!

Hope you all had a HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

OCTOBER RANDOMNESS

2011-11-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

I just unloaded the photos from the camera and found lots of randomness....here goes!

Kyler only likes to eat the peel off of the apples. He says he doesn't like to eat the white part by itself....so he gave it to the dog. Kyler asked that I photograph the apple after Roscoe ate the bottom portion. So glad our family history is now complete with the addition of this story!

First, we have beautiful winter grass (most of america has this grass in the summer!) this year. Tony was on top of things in getting it planted for us. Too bad his mowing took out our glass door!

Something hit the door near the top and it was so loud when it cracked into a big spider web. Then it kept cracking and popping for about 20 minutes until we were left with this masterpiece. Tony and the boys actually like the look of it. Even so, Tony is ordering new glass and will repair it himself. (I'm sure whatever happens when he does, it will make a great blog post!)

I thought the leg knots were bad.....Kyler's moved on to tying his shoes together.

Here's the latest creation....not sure what this is called. I'm also not sure where he got these socks from!

This was last Saturday at Costco. Tony and the boys were up in Groom Creek helping Uncle Glen with the cabin and Kyler and I stayed behind. We had a busy day! First, was a Breakfast/Car Wash fundraiser at Colton and Asher's school. Kyler and I ate breakfast while our van was getting washed. We found out Monday that we had even won a raffle. The prize: Vans bag, Vans folder, Van's keychain, Van's wallet, Van's sunglasses (Spicoli!) and case and a $25 gift card for a pizza restaurant! Second, Kyler's football skills class. He LOVES this class!!!!! He normally doesn't have any mishaps, but Saturday he did - a football to the crotch and a very long pass hit his forehead and flew into the sky! (that second one looked pretty awesome....and he shook it off!)

Here's my monkey at the school breakfast.

Doesn't everyone eat bacon with whipped cream on it?!?

Third, one of his best friends was getting baptized. I can't believe in 5 1/2 months it will be Kyler's turn for a baptism! Hopefully I can get him to smile!

But I won't hold my breath!

ASHER'S BIRTHDAY FINALE

2011-11-02T07:30:00.000-07:00

We continued to celebrate Asher's birthday throughout the week. (actually, the celebration isn't complete since Tony and I still need to clean Asher's room for him) I love that Krispy Kreme always has a decorated box for Asher's birthday doughnuts.

Would a birthday celebration be complete without IBC Rootbeer.....I think not!!!

The Cake.

Finally.

I couldn't decide on a recipe and Tony just brought a box mix and can of frosting home for me to "get it over with!" Asher chose himself as the cake design. (He's only been called Harry Potter since he got his first pair of glasses......8 years ago!!!) I let him know I was happy to make this cake, but it wouldn't be decorated. He was fine with that and I was fine with taking the detailed photo before I frosted it and it turned into a blob. (by the way: I did find a basic chocolate cake recipe that I made the next day and it was delicious. You can find it here)

Asher with the ~~blob~~ birthday cake!

Yes.....those tall candles are sparkler candles that relight. It's been a few years since we've used anything like that. He wasn't expecting it at all and the relighting candles got huge laughs. BONUS!

Now hopefully I'll clean his room today and we'll be officially done celebrating Asher's Thirteenth Birthday!!!!! Happy Birthday, Teenager!

ASHER....THE TEENAGER!!!!!!!

2011-10-19T08:32:00.000-07:00

To my manly son who's pretty awesome and...

a good tortilla maker and...

a procrastinater on school projects and...

a go-cart finder (at the dumpster) and...

a hulk two-face SeaWorld visitor and...

a 7th grader (I can't believe it!!!) and...

a cookie monster hat wearer and...

a hiker of Havasupai and...

a fun brother (yes, Roscoe's wearing a matching tie too...The Matching Tie Guy(dot)com) and...

a wonderfully goofy son and...

a dance partner (and a rather stylish guy I might add) and...

an all-around nice guy!!!

Here's to a great start to your teenage years! I'm glad we've extended the birthday celebration and we're not done yet. Love you spoiled boy!

FALL BREAK RANDOMNESS

2011-10-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

The following are little bits of randomness.....that just happened to occur during fall break. First, lunch at El Rico's Dos!!!! I've been twice....kids haven't been. (It's a good thing they don't read this!) It's so delicious!!!!! Their chips and salsa are amazing. Do you see that normal sized burrito on the left? Then look at that monstrosity to the right of it! It's more than twice as big = the El Gordo Burrito! Look over their menu....trust me - everything's great.

Second, mammogram time! Since October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month they gave me a pink carnation and they had a bowl of chocolate to enjoy next to this note. Sadly, it's been awhile since anyone's given me chocolates and a flower!

Third, Costco lunch! The boys love this. We were also doing a little bit of shopping (and enjoying the taster samples) when we came across Kyler's favorite cereal. All he wanted was for me to buy a box...or 4....or 28...something like that.

Unfortunately, we left without a box. But he did hug them before he left. I think Santa may have to take note here. Last Christmas Santa brought him multiple boxes of mac 'n cheese....and he hugged those too.

Fourth, Bazzill Paper Warehouse Sale!!!!! This happens once a year. Every year I get up early and go wait in line with tons of other women just as excited to shop. I left with a box of paper, 17 spools of ribbon, cute dress forms just waiting to be decorated, a stamp, an idea book, 3 templates (2 alphabets, 1 set of designs), and some pewter looking tags. Happiness!

Loving all the Fall Break Randomness!

FALL BREAK PROCRASTINATION

2011-10-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

Fall break is here and I'm enjoying the relaxing mornings.....too much, in fact. It's nearly noon and I'm still in my nightgown. (I'm not in bed still, cleaning has been going on) I get so excited in the upcoming weeks to a school break. I dream about the projects I'm going to work on, the recipes I'll make and the time with my kids. Then I starting making my lists and planning all the wonderful days we'll enjoy together. Before this break, I'd had enough of my boys attitudes, lack of cleaning/picking-up of their messes, the blame game and their attitudes! (did I mention their attitudes!!!!) I planned a Mom Boot Camp for the boys. I made a huge list of what I wanted done and lessons to learn. The only thing I changed up from my original plans was how strict I was going to be with them. I decided to only take 1/2 days for the work and it's worked out pretty well. They've even had days off. We've also talked a lot about how to behave and treat others. I will say that our home has already been a lot quieter and much more cooperative. Just writing this is getting me more energized to finish out our last week of fall break....and maybe get dressed!

FROM THE HOUSE OF STEVE

2011-09-29T17:48:00.000-07:00

Remember that we named our house Steve.....well, we did. Here's a few photos from the House of Steve. This is what I found in my bed the other night. He loves to take his own photo and he loves for me to snap photos of him with spiky hair. It spikes up pretty good right after his shower, then it falls as it dries.

Spiky hair boy is moving while I'm snapping this shot.

Ferocious!

I don't have words for this one!

Then yesterday I took all the boys to the dentist. After the appointment they get tokens (if they're good) and get to "shop" for prizes. Apparently facial hair is really cool! (I'm so glad this is temporary!!!!)

Asher

with the

"Selleck"

What will tomorrow bring?

THIS BOY

2011-09-28T07:01:00.000-07:00

A few things about this crazy boy. First, he loves to take pictures of himself. Most of them are blurry. I showed him what setting to set the camera at and out came a focused photo!

Second, Kyler has only had velcro shoes until this school year and as a result doesn't know how to tie his shoes....yet! I thought I would teach him right away...but we've been to busy getting him to do homework, read and focus on his behavior. He now has a deadline of October 19th (the day we return to school after fall break) to be tying his own shoes. As soon as school's out on Friday, we'll get to work! For now, if his shoes get untied at school, he does this: LEG KNOT. (that's what he calls it) He wraps the lace around his leg and ties a simple knot. He has managed to do this tight enough to keep his shoe secure and not too tight to hurt his leg.

I'll be happy to say goodbye to the leg knots!

Third, Kyler's taking a football skills class on Saturday mornings. He explained to me that he didn't need this class since he has already played flag football on a team. He even told me that during a practice he "got a home run" I explained that it wasn't called a home run...that's in baseball. "Oh, well....I got a goal" Kyler, that's soccer. "Whatever it's called....I got some points" This is why you're going to this class!

This was the first week. Kyler is lined up with Jacob (from church). They are on the far right, Kyler's in white, Jacob's in red.

Jacob has already taught Kyler to spike the ball!

Kyler is really loving this class, much more than I even hoped for. Now if I could just get him to tie his shoes!

DEBANDED

2011-09-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

Today was the big day.....BRACES OFF for Colton!

This weekend Kyler reminded me that we didn't have a photo of Colton and Mitch with their braces. We took this photo yesterday (Thanks, Kyler!) Kyler calls them Braces Brothers.

When they called Colton back....I went with him. Yes....I probably embarrassed him and I don't care! I wanted to get photos of this event. It only took a few minutes to get the braces off. Looking good, but they still had to get the adhesive off his teeth.

Next, they took impressions so they could get his retainers made.

Finally, he was free! His orthodontist gifted him with a goody bag of some of the foods he had to avoid during treatment. Colton was happy to have it and happier to take it to school...just in time for lunch.

Looking good!

Colton gets his retainers on Wednesday.....

and then no more orthodontist appointments.........

until Kyler!

LOVE (or WHEN'S IT FALL BREAK?!?)

2011-09-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

You can guess how crazy my life is when this child's the absolute angel of the family! (he's always adorable, but gives me a run for my money.......constantly!!!)

Because these two older boys are

DRIVING

CRAZY!!!!!!!

Dear Sons,

DO YOUR HOMEWORK!

THAT INCLUDES STUDYING!!!!

STOP FORGETTING ABOUT ASSIGNMENTS

UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE!!!!!!!!

DON'T CALL FROM SCHOOL AGAIN SAYING YOU FORGOT YOUR FLASH DRIVE THAT HOLDS THE MOVIE THAT YOU MADE (WHICH WAS MADE IN A RUSH BECAUSE YOU HAD THE DUE DATE INCORRECT IN YOUR AGENDA AND YOUR PARENTS RACED AROUND WITH YOU TO THE PARK AFTER PICKING UP YOUR "CAST" TO SHOOT THE CIVIL WAR SOLDIER FILM) AND YOU HAVE TO SHOW IT TODAY IN CLASS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(and if you do that again...I will AGAIN have you kiss me in front of the entire 7th & 8th grades)

-MOM

Actually......it's

Love, Mom

(it's a good thing they're still cute!)

MINI VACATION

2011-09-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

While Tony and the older boys went camping on Friday, Kyler and I went with Mamita up to Prescott. It was so nice to get away and enjoy cooler weather! We got into Prescott around 4:30 and drove straight up to the cabin in Groom Creek. It was raining.....I LOVE THE RAIN! The cabin is in the beginning stages of repairs to make it possible to enjoy it again. (Fingers crossed that it's possible to repair it!) Here's one thing I don't want repaired....the Chalet Cardon sign! I just want to add a sign of my own one day. We have named our home....(think Pride & Prejudice - I wanted to name my home...unfortunately I let the kids have a say...and they named our home) Our home is now called Steve. (Can't you just hear me now...."Heaven and earth! -- of what are you thinking? Are the shades of Steve to be thus polluted?") Don't you think Steve Deux should grace this tree under Chalet Cardon?!?

Here's a rare photo....Kyler smiling for me!

This is what Kyler did most of the time. He played his NintendoDS and chewed on his shirt!

My favorite view!

Wouldn't a hammock be heavenly?

Good bye Chalet Cardon!

I hope you can be resurrected!

AROUND MY HOUSE

2011-08-31T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here's a little peak at what I've found this morning,

Toy on the baskets...

Poster on the floor....in the front room?!?

Handcuffs......Asher's favorite toy right now

Doesn't everyone have some nutella (sadly, without a spoon!) and a play handgun at their bedside....apparently I do.

And last but certainly not least.....the fish

I think it has a name.....

I remember now - Samurai.

Kyler won this fish at our Ward Trunk-or-Treat last year. I thought and still think it was a cruel joke. I was not happy about taking 4....YES, FOUR!....fish home that evening. I refused to acknowledge them. After all they were cheap-o fish that would be dead by morning....right? Well...the first three did die off rather quickly, but not this one.....I just thought of a new name for him - I AM NUMBER 4! (I make myself laugh) Anyways, I refused to do anything for this fish. We borrowed fish food from a friend and wouldn't you know it, the fish outlived the food. I had to buy some food but refused to upgrade his home - a recycled milk jug. Kyler asks once in a while if I can get him a fish bowl, but I know that the second I do, he'll die. Every time I walk by their bathroom I can't believe that fish is still alive. This silly, feeder fish who lives in a milk jug that we fill with plain, old tap water and rarely clean it out (which is probably why you can't even find him in the photo...but he's there) has been with us for 10 months. Maybe we'll upgrade his home if he makes it to October 30th....the one year anniversary of taking him home. I'll be sure to write all about it.

Don't worry....I'll write about the fish funeral the very next day - it's inevitable!

STILL IN LOVE!

2011-08-31T08:40:00.000-07:00

It was very hard to get a decent picture....but this was the best I could do.....and I'm happy to have it!!!!! Thanks to my friend, Trudie, I got to see Donny Osmond on Monday night! He really does have a great voice and is very entertaining....even when he falls flat on his face!!!! He sang songs from when he was a little boy all the way through to a song from his most recent album (do they still say album?!?) and a little bit of everything in between. Trudie and I both loved when he performed Close Every Door to Me from Joseph - but without the loin cloth....bummer! Which reminds me of a story when I received my Donny & Marie barbie dolls as a little girl......but I don't think it's blog appropriate! Anyways....

Do you see that purple paper behind my ticket? Some lucky people were given this paper to fill out a question for Donny and request a song. The papers were taken back stage to Donny himself. Some REALLY, REALLY LUCKY people had their purple card selected. In case you were wondering....I'm just lucky. I'm happy to say I still LOVE Donny Osmond....always have, always will!!!

May tomorrow be a special day

May you find love and laughter along the way

May God keep you in His tender care

Till He brings us together again,

Good Night, Everybody!

BE STILL MY HEART!!!!!!

2011-08-29T17:30:00.000-07:00

This is who I'm spending my evening with........FOR REALS!

22 YEARS!!!

2011-08-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's been 22 years since Tony and I were married?!? I guess it's easier to believe if you look at our wedding pictures!

There we were.....just babies!

Tony was 22....I was 19.

My mom took the boys this weekend so we could have the house to ourselves! (thanks!) Unfortunately, our van's a/c broke down on Thursday and we were hosting a dinner group for church on Saturday. We didn't let that get in the way of our weekend alone! It did get me thinking on anniversaries past that also weren't ideal. Like our 5th Anniversary- we had a miscarriage a few months earlier....oh, and we both lost our jobs that summer too! We did get to see Harry Connick Jr. in concert.....because we bought the tickets before the job loss. Or our 7th Anniversary- where Tony insisted we take Colton with us to dinner. He didn't see how an anniversary celebration would ever be complete without taking our child (or future children) with us!!! I offered to walk around with Colton during our appetizer so I could sit and enjoy my entree. (note: Tony has never suggested we take our children with us to celebrate anniversaries again) There was the 15th Anniversary- we went to see Van Halen in concert and Tony was thrilled to change our song to Van Halen's When It's Love. There was also a memorable anniversary where we dined at Fat Burger and came home to watch The Simpson's Movie.

I love looking back on the past 22 years. I love seeing all the ups and downs, the adventures, the drama, the fun, the craziness, the busy times, and the busier times. I love watching my boys grow up (even though Asher is now dangerously close to being a teenager.....HELP!!!!!) and live their crazy, fun-filled lives...and yes, I even love their drama! Now I'm off to continue living this very crazy,

very busy,

very blessed life!

(I also love last year's anniversary post if you want to see it again here)

ASHER

2011-07-31T12:17:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that this little boy has grown up and is already 12, in Jr. High and has a 1st Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do! He's worked hard over the past 3 1/2 years. Lots of hours spent on lessons and sparring and practice and reviewing questions, but it was all worth it. Asher's Black Belt is registered with the World Tae Kwon Do Federation and is recognized in 197 countries. We are so proud of him!!!!!

To celebrate this accomplishment, Mamita took him to SeaWorld! They were able to spend a whole day at and they had a GREAT TIME!!!!! They enjoyed the rides, the shows and the fireworks. They (YES, they....I just don't have a photo of Mamita!) even enjoyed the face painting that was offered at the company dinner!

This did startle me a bit this morning!

Asher's were so proud of you!!!!

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL 2011/2012

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

With less than 8 weeks of summer, it really does fly by fast!

Introducing....Colton our Sophomore!

(SOPHOMORE....when did that happen?!? It goes by too fast. And sadly, all I can think of when I say Sophomore is a line from Sixteen Candles "sophomore, dude, sophomore. Fully aged sophomore meat")

As scary as it is to have a sophomore.....it's been much more emotional to have my second son be a 7th grader!!!!! It took me by surprise (don't know how since I shopped with him, filled out his paperwork and took him to the school to shadow a 7th grader last spring) when he came into the kitchen in his uniform. Don't tell Asher, but I even cried after I dropped him off at school!!!!! (and yes, I'm fully aware I have frames above the chalkboard with no photos....maybe that could be a project for me this weekend?!?)

Finally my baby! He's already in 2nd grade and look at how serious he is!

That is until we let him hold Asher's mace. I'm just thankful that our arsenal of weapons is mainly made by nerf! Wasn't I just at girls camp making friendship bracelets, flying sock monkeys and decorating paper mache letters? Now I'm back home with boys and weapons!

Here's to a successful school year!

GIRLS CAMP 2011 - THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!

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

I was able to go to girls camp again - that makes 3 times out of the last 5 girls camps! We don't have a lot of girls, but they are all wonderful!!!!! Instead of a hike, we went to the Snowflake Temple.

I love the beautiful grounds - waterfalls, grass, trees, benches and flowers.

Our theme this year was There's No Place Like Home from the Wizard of Oz. Every day had a theme - Knowledge (the scarecrow), Courage (the cowardly lion), Love (the tin man) and that last day was Home. I asked if I could give the devotional on Home since I had a great idea for my handout - yes, handouts are that important!!! I decided to give them each a ruby slipper! Here's how they came together: First, buy some clear plastic shoes. I've seen them at the dollar store for years....but as I finally needed them.....no more shoes at the dollar store! I bought these at JoAnn's craft store - with a coupon! You can find them in the wedding favor section.

Second, they needed a base coat of red. Enter - spray paint!

Third, after letting them dry overnight, I painted them with regular white glue and then glittered them! I have LOVED glitter since I was a little girl and I don't think that will ever change!!! It makes me happy!!!!!!!

I wish these pictures would have turned out half as good as these shoes! They were PERFECTION!!!!!! I packaged them in some little chinese take out boxes I have and they fit perfectly. I couldn't wait until I could unveil them on the last day. Finally it was time to give my devotional. After my talk, I told them I had something to give them and it was already in a "to go" box since we were packing up to leave. Then I pulled the little glittered shoe from the box and I heard a collective gasp! They were so cute and LOVED their ruby slipper! I love serving in Young Womens!!!!!!

Before you knew it, it was time to hit the road. It was a first for me to drive in a van with a canoe on top of us! But I do think it's a perfect "camping" adventure picture.

Thank you, girls camp......There's really no place like home!!!!!

SUMMER'S DISCOVERY!

2011-07-28T07:46:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful discovery this summer....BAHAMA BUCKS!!!!

Who knew shaved ice could be this delicious?!? I didn't, but we quickly found out. The only regret...we didn't discover it until early July. We are taking every chance we can to get this delicious treat. Kyler already has his "usual" - 1/2 watermelon, 1/2 strawberry, no creme. Asher loves orange with creme (orange is also his stand by slushee flavor). Colton has tried out lots of flavors....only Dr. Pepper was a thumbs down. One of his favorites is coconut cream pie with creme....it is delicious!!!! I've tried lots of flavors (I always get two flavors and I try Tony's flavors too!) and recommend - coconut cream pie, strawberry daiquiri, pina colada, dreamsicle, banana daiquiri, birthday cake, black cherry, and blueberry cheesecake. I DO NOT recommend pickle juice...yes, that's a flavor! (to be fair I haven't tried it, but I can't imagine liking it!)

These boys LOVE Bahama Bucks!

So does Cookie!!!!!

WELL CHECKS

2011-07-25T07:40:00.000-07:00

In an effort (late effort) to have the kids get their well check BEFORE starting school, we decided to see a different doctor. Our Dr. (Dr. Burke) is always busy and wouldn't be able to see the boys in time, but she has many associates and they are all wonderful too. So I made the appointment and we went to visit Dr. Namjoshi. He was really nice and thought Kyler was hilarious. Here he was getting his blood pressure taken. The nurse warned him it might not be comfortable, he looked at her with no expression and said "I'm 7, I think I can handle it." Kyler was making us all laugh that morning.

A couple more highlights of the visit. Kyler left a sample in the bathroom and asked if he could keep his urine when they were done. He told the nurse before she measured his height that he grows 2 inches everyday. The best was when the doctor had to check his boy parts. The Dr. counted - "one, two, you've got both of them" to which Kyler replied "Really, I could have done that!" Dr. Namjoshi couldn't stop laughing and thinks Kyler's "trending to be an attorney, he's got a answer for EVERYTHING!" That's when Kyler said "I'm not going to be an attorney, I'm going to HAVE an attorney!" I don't doubt this!!! (just hope I won't be paying for it!)

OUR ITALIAN FEAST!

2011-07-25T07:31:00.000-07:00

I love kitchen tools, bakeware, dishes, tableclothes....any accessories for the kitchen or table! Here's my new toy (thanks, Mom) a trio lasagna pan. I broke it in with three different lasagnas. (I could even see just one lasagna, roasted veggies in one and bread in the other) 1st: regular meat and cheese with red sauce; 2nd: meat, cheese and veggie with red sauce; 3rd: veggie, cheese and alfredo sauce. They were all delicious!

Next up - Panzanella Salad!!!!! Oh my heavens this was good. I toasted up 1/2 a loaf of french bread cubed and tossed with olive oil. Then I cut up a red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, zucchini and tomatoes and cooked them in a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This was poured over the toasted bread cubes....DELICIOUS!!!

Here's our simple green salad with homemade balsamic vinaigrette.

Everyone ate plenty and the best part of leftover lasagna in this pan.....they transfer from this pan to containers much easier than a normal 9x13 pan.

This meal will needs to reappear on our table soon!

CORN DOGS - BAKED

2011-07-25T07:17:00.000-07:00

I love, love, love this mini, mini, mini loaf pan. The other week I had some extra little boys over and needed to make lunch for everyone. I was wishing I could make some baked corn dogs when I had an idea about this pan.

I made some cornbread up and added a little to the pan. Then I put 1/4 of a hotdog on top and added a little more cornbread to the top of that.

These are not the normal corn dogs on a stick, but I liked them! So did the kids! We even cut them into 3 pieces each and they dipped them in ketchup. Maybe next time I will dip 1/4 of a hot dog in the batter (with a toothpick to hold it) and bake them on a cookie sheet. It couldn't hurt to try!

Corn Dog Goodness!

GARAGE SALE SUCCESS!!!

2011-07-14T11:52:00.000-07:00

We put out our ~~junk~~ extremely valuable and loved items on the drive way Saturday morning. The signs were up, the kids were up, we were ready to sell. It began at 6am (and was probably close to 90 degrees...and humid!) We had two refrigerators, a range, microwave, TV, light fixture, shower chair, walker, cane, two couches, new DVD player, shoe rack, 6 chairs, curtains & curtain rods, stereo stand and one table full of miscellaneous ~~junk~~ single items. By 8am we had sold EVERYTHING!!!!! (Well, not everything on the misc. table, but pretty close! We only had one little box only 1/3 of the way full to drop at the thrift store) These were the last items to be picked up and we were HAPPY! Who ever heard of a 2-hour-everything-sold-garage-sale-in-the-AZ-summer-heat?!? (one more note before we go down memory lane: notice how our garage doors are shut......I was so afraid if we kept them open people would want to "shop" in there! I'm cleaning out toys and holiday decorations in there and will have another garage sale in late Sept/early Oct....just waiting on cooler weather)

NOW FOR MEMORY LANE!

It sold......OLD YELLER SOLD!!!

The lady that bought it didn't even haggle with the price.

A.MAZ.ING.

Mita had this yellow sofa special made in the 60's. She placed it on top of bright, sunshine yellow shag carpet in her living room. She LOVED it!!!!! I have spent countless hours sitting here listening to albums like: The Chipmunks Christmas Special, Sonny & Cher, and the Sound of Music. We have been photographed on or near it almost every Christmas of my life. When Mita and Papa moved to Gilbert, they could only keep one couch. Guess which one Mita took. She ditched the neutral sofa for Old Yeller (new nick name I just made up.....I thought it was appropriate since this couch needed to be put out of it's misery) and never looked back. Just when I thought no one would love this yellow beast, a woman came by and bought it....without haggling! She loved the vintage feel (and that it's upholstery had no holes) and snatched it up. When she came to pick it up later that day, I told her about our Christmas photos with grandkids and eventually great-grandkids on here. She looked at me and smiled then said "I bet we'll have lots of family photos on here too"

Mita's couch wasn't going to the dump....it was being rescued and was starting a new life, with a new family....it's just like the ending of Toy Story 3 (sniff, sniff)!!! I love that movie!

Bolster pillow, I think I'll miss you most of all!

(Wizard of Oz reference)

GOING...

GONE!!!!!

Thanks for the memories!

4TH OF JULY & MESSES!

2011-07-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

First, our 4th of July BBQ! Just look at that delicious burger - grilled onions, bacon and avocado! It was soooooo good, so was the corn. Then the boys went out front to set off fireworks...nothing too big. That is until a neighbor brought something out and said "I don't know what this is, but I got it in Mexico" Everyone's OK now.....enough said.

Moving right along, Kyler has given up his room to my craft room. He's currently sharing with Colton....yes, you can imagine how happy the 15 year-old is to share with a 7 year-old. It's good for him! Well, we moved Kyler in but none of his stuff. It was finally time to tackle Kyler's stash and get him moved in once and for all. We brought everything to the family room and he started to sort.....then a friend came over......then Kyler "paid" his friend to "help".

Then they got distracted....that's what happens to 7 and 8 year-olds.

Note: Trevor's payment was this unopened box of blue bunny peeps from Kyler's Easter basket. All the toys were just a bonus!

Now I'm off to help Kyler clean up the family room.

I hope he doesn't pay me!

HAIKU

2011-07-04T13:29:00.000-07:00

Summer's in full swing.

Boys are tired and crabby and fighting.

I am wishing for school again.....

until I found a haiku I wrote during last semester.

Enjoy.

ASHER AFTER SCHOOL

Ash procrastinates

Frustration sets in with Mom

Do homework now please

Summer fighting vs. Homework frustration....

Which to choose?!?

HE'S BACK.....AND THEN GONE!

2011-06-26T14:08:00.000-07:00

Colton's back from EFY (Especially For Youth - a conference for 14-18 years old in our church. He attended the conference in Provo, UT (at BYU) and we're so happy to have him home! He and Asher will be leaving around 1am tomorrow to drive to Havasupai for a three day adventure. I thought it would be a treat to hear from Colton himself about his EFY experience. Take it away, Colton!

Well, here I go! EFY (Especially For Youth in acronym form) was the best week of my summer so far. With a $500 (really $450, but close enough, Colton) entry fee, I was really speculating whether or not this would be an intelligent way for my parents and I to spend our hard-earned money. I'm happy to say that it wasn't just a good way to spend $500, but the BEST way to spend it that I've experienced thus far. If any of you are even thinking about going to EFY, DO IT!!!!!! This place has the three G's: Girls, the Gospel, and Great food. It's just pure epicness, and they make church related stuff actually fun. I can't really do justice to how awesome this camp was. My testimony grew literally from an acorn to an oak tree, and I knew that what we were doing was the right thing through confirmation from the Spirit. Oh man, EFY was great. So yeah...just send your kids as long as they're fourteen or up, because I guarantee you that it is the best thing to do over summer break. Oh, and Lagoon Amusement Park was sweet as well...just sayin'.

Well, there you have it - Colton's endorsement of EFY. We were not paid for our endorsement....although...that's a great idea!

EFY

2011-06-18T07:20:00.000-07:00

I was so bummed last year! I didn't get Colton pre-registered for EFY and he wasn't able to get in the session with his friend. We didn't end up sending him at all. This year I planned, I was prepared! He was pre-registered. He and his friend are roommates. I was relieved and excited for him.....until last night. As happy as I was and as grown up as he is.....I DIDN'T WANT MY BABY TO LEAVE!!!!! Especially since he's flying up there. And I can't drop him off Monday in person. And I won't be able to pick him up Saturday morning. And I won't have an entire car ride to and from Utah to talk to him and just see him and hear all about it! The truth is - I'll miss him. The truth is - I don't like my kids and I to be too far apart. My dad said "Wait until he leaves for his mission." I think I CAN wait! The only consolation is that when Colton leaves to serve his mission....Tony will be crying harder than me!

So Colton, be safe.

Have fun.

(And get home soon so you can tell me all about it!)

KYLER'S 7!!!

2011-05-22T19:41:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it?!? I can't! He was so excited for his birthday this year. He planned his own party, demanding that it would be from 4-6pm on his birthday last Thursday. I didn't think much of the timing until it was too late. Asher had a dress rehearsal for a play that afternoon and we had a dinner for a cousin's wedding. The only thing that it really affected was picking up his free food. (and YES, getting all that free food IS that important!!!!) Solution: take Kyler out of school in the middle of the day to pick it all up. I picked him up around 10:30 and we were able to get in and out of Joe's Farm Grill, Joe's BBQ and Liberty Market in less than an hour! He was also able to eat lunch - from Joe's Farm Grill - under the water tower in Gilbert. (He LOVES the water tower!) After lunch I dropped him back at school and put the rest of his food in the fridge to feed the boys dinner while Tony and I were out. Here's my only photo at Liberty Market - my camera batteries died after that.

Even though Kyler picked a Pokemon party, he picked a baseball cake to go with it!

He also picked out a vanilla cake, in case someone was allergic to chocolate. He's getting thoughtful in his older age.

I wonder what he wished for?!?

Kyler was SO HAPPY for the big box of 42 fruit rolls!!!

(it's too bad it didn't outlast the weekend!)

Pokemon figure!

Here's the crew (including Colton and Mitch - thank you for doing the pinata with the boys) front row: Drew, Teegan, Andrew, Kyler, Greer, Eric, Trevor, Back row: Colton, Kevin, Bryce and Mitch.

Before I knew it the party was over! Thanks to Kyler's friends and brothers for making the day so special for him! Next year....BAPTISM! Go, Kyler!!!

MAY FOURTH

2011-05-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

MAY THE FOURTH BE WITH YOU.....

HAPPY STAR WARS DAY!!!!!!

Gotta love Jedi Roscoe!

and MAY THE FOURTH BE WITH YOU!!!!!

MINNESOTA - THE PURPLE PEACOCK WEDDING

2011-05-03T08:52:00.001-07:00

I was fortunate to spend a week in Minnesota (thanks Tony for watching the kids and Candy for picking up boys!) celebrating my sister's wedding, visiting relatives and holding my little niece! First, I have to say what a relaxing week it was. I didn't make dinner once, went to sleep when I wanted, woke up when I wanted, enjoyed a lot of quiet (even with a baby in the house) and spent lots of time talking with adults.....a DREAM VACATION! I flew in on a Tuesday afternoon and we had enough time to drive home, pick up dinner and rush to eat before

AUDRA'S BRIDAL SHOWER!

Audra all decked out in her purple. She did choose purple peacock as her theme!

The food was so delicious and I loved how they decorated with black and white photos of the happy couple. They served a hot corn dip with tortilla chips, hummus with pita chips, sliced apples with toffee dip, baked cinnamon sugar tortilla strips with pumpkin dip, a veggie tray, grapes, strawberries........

cupcakes and brownie bites!!!

After visiting with her guests, Audra told us how she met Steve and how they fell in love. Next up were the gifts! Here's the only gift I can show you. (feel free to visit Victoria's Secret website if you want to see her other gifts) Her grandma gave her this cute sign for her new apartment.

Even with all the hustle and bustle of the wedding week there was still plenty of time to love this baby!

Such a cutie!

Miss Jade getting ready for her bath. Love that Buddha Belly!

Seriously, I can't get enough of this girl!

Thursday we all traveled to St. Paul for Audra and Steve to go through the temple before the wedding the next day. It was still quite cold and they didn't have flowers on the grounds of the temple yet. They have two planters on either side of the doors and they always have flowers in them. Here was one of the planters full of spring flowers. Apparently it made a nice home for a little bird.

The wedding and reception were beautiful!!!! (pictures to come later) Little Miss Jade was tired before the party even got started! Here she is chillin' with Grandma.

Ready to doze off.

Little Miss Jade (and her parents) will be in Minnesota until her daddy starts his training in GA. After training, their family is moving to......ALASKA!!!!!

Bundle up, Jade!

When it was time to go back to reality, Dad drove me up to the cities. On our way, we stopped to get some beef jerky for the boys. We saw this pig's ear and Dad sent one with me for Roscoe. (the second Kyler saw it he asked if he could eat it! Fortunately, he didn't....but the kids did put it up to their own ear......results: they looked like YODA!)

Roscoe was hesitant at first. (ok....he was scared....he's scared of EVERYTHING!) Then he found a little bravery and tried it out.

Thanks to Dad and Connie for putting up with me for a week!

Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Yeager!!!

And to Catherine and Sean......You get the CUTEST BABY award!!!!!

THE YEAGER'S

2011-04-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Steve Yeager!

MITA'S YELLOW COUCH

2011-04-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

The only thing brighter than Mita's yellow couch was the sunshine yellow shag carpet that it used to sit on! The couch has faded over the years, but it's as iconic as Mita's Charlie Brown Christmas tree. The only thing missing in the following photos are the cool watermelon lipstick kisses on the kids cheeks!

(impromptu photo shoot before school)

Colton's favorite teenage hobby.....sleeping.

The hat was Papa's....we think from the 50s.

Kyler's pose

Asher meditating

My three monkeys...

See no evil

Hear no evil

Speak no evil

Togetherness

(yes, kyler is sucking his thumb for the photo)

((no, he doesn't do this in real life))

The couch is on my front lawn and ready for photo ops....when are you coming over?

MESSES!

2011-04-04T08:36:00.000-07:00

Why is there NEVER a shortage of messes?!? Normally the dog food is pretty tidy, but occasionally we have a mess. I asked Kyler to clean up the dog food. By Kyler's reaction you would have thought I asked him to lick it up with his tongue! He finally came over to clean it up, but not before he had dressed for the job.

Latex Gloves!

Really?! To pick up dog food.

This was the first time he's used the gloves, but it certainly won't be the last time. He's already snagged another pair to deal with another clean up job he had....not that they were necessary.

Speaking of messes......Mita's home is finally getting cleared out. This is a VERY tidy picture of some (I repeat SOME) of Mita's things. Many of the items in this picture are already distributed among her children. Now it's time to clean up everything that's left. This weekend we cleaned out the bedroom closets, the linen closet, her sewing desk and packed up one bookshelf of books. My lungs are seriously still recovering from all the dust!

Everyone that comes to the house to help has commented that they want to go back to their homes and clean out all the junk they have. The reality is: you're so exhausted after working in the home that you won't have the energy to clean out your home. By the time you would be ready to deal with your own messes, you're generally fine with the way things are again! And so the cycle continues......ahhhhhhh, MESSES!

PREPAREDNESS

2011-03-21T11:12:00.001-07:00

Just before we started Spring Break, Asher and Kyler had student-led conferences. Kyler was SO EXCITED about them and informed me that he only wanted his dad there.....well, he said I could be there too....how sweet! (I love his FILTHY shirt!!!!! I've introduced him to napkins before.....he just doesn't get along with them!)

He welcomed us to his class and had us sit down at his desk. Then he opened the folder on his desk and would ask us to read a paper, then he would show off his mad 1st grade skills. Kyler is nothing if not BLUNT! I loved this paper. He listed what story he would read to us and why he chose it. He chose Mary Mack and this is what he wrote, "I did it because it was the quickest story." That's our Kyler!!!

He also showed off his math skills, addition, subtraction, measuring and singing the Gallon Man song. Very entertaining!

The last item was reading a letter that Colton wrote to us.

Dear Mom and Dad,

Thank you for raising me.

I am so happy.

I hope you have a girl.

Love, Kyler

I asked him about having a girl part of the letter and he said he wanted a little sister so he could tease her and trap her like his brothers did to him. I know....too much sweetness! I just love all the adventures with all our children! Even though most of it can not be prepared for! I really like to be prepared. I like to plan and make lists and know what's going to happen. Then I had children! Now I try to just prepare for the unexpected and find patience. Case in point: The other week after a dentist appointment, I took Asher and Kyler to Costco for lunch. After they ate their hotdogs, they asked for a churro - politely I might add! As they came back to the table, I asked Asher for a bite of his churro. He tore off a piece for me. Next, I asked Kyler for a bite of his churro.....Kyler didn't skip a beat and said in a LOUD, BOLD VOICE - "I DON'T KNOW YOU! YOU'RE A STRANGER. MY NAME IS BOB." He then scooted further from me and started up again, "I DON'T KNOW YOU. YOU'RE A STRANGER. 9-1-1 (as he "dialed" on his hand and pretended to call the police) HELP ME A STRANGER IS TRYING TO GET MY CHURRO!" When he first started EVERYONE turned to help the poor little child...they quickly saw he didn't need help....his mother did! An elderly couple behind us couldn't stop laughing.....neither could I! I was completely unprepared for this response! I am prepared for NOTHING to change anytime soon!

NATIONAL COLTON'S DAY (or as some people know it, St. Patrick's Day)

2011-03-21T10:42:00.000-07:00

Yes....my first born had ANOTHER birthday! He's 15.....and dangerously close to driving and dating! Where has the time gone? He spent his birthday morning asking when he could open his gifts. I wanted to wait for Tony to come home so we were all together.....that didn't happen! He finally got to open his card and find his prepaid receipt for a video game (it will come out 3/22) and $omething el$e wa$ in hi$ card......I wonder what?!?

I think one of the best things about your birthday is the free food at Krispie Kreme, Joe's BBQ, Joe's Farm Grill and Liberty Market! Colton enjoyed (and even shared) all the yummy meals! I love this photo of him in a tree at Joe's Farm Grill (where he ordered pepperoni pizza and a chocolate shake)

7pm - Colton's Party!

16 teens showed up

They played Just Dance on the Wii, Ping Pong, and 007.

They talked and ate.

We made cotton candy!

His friends SPOILED him!!!!!!

I LOVE this gift!

10 cans of Dr. Pepper, each can wrapped with 2 $1 bills and wrapped in red tulle!

This card went very well with their movie choice...

Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventures!!!

Don't you love this card....I DO!!!! It went with the Dr. Pepper gift.

Colton didn't want a Costco cake.....but he did want raspberry zingers.....

Voila! The Raspberry Zinger cake!

I think it was a very successful birthday and party!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, COLTON!

ADVENTURES IN ARIZONIA

2011-03-03T07:35:00.001-08:00

I was so proud when Kyler was released from speech therapy this past December. He has worked hard since he was nearly 3 to master speech. The only drawback to his success is that he stopped saying the cutest words/phrases! No more answering the telephone..."HeWWo!" No more "I'm KyWer....I can't say my mame very good" Fortunately he has left a couple of words to make me smile. (and I don't let anybody correct him!) The first is the fact that he lives in Arizonia! I love Arizonia....doesn't it sound like a place that would be in a fairy tale? I think it does! I want to write a story of my Prince Kyler who's castle is in Arizonia. The other is about his enemies......his MARCH-ENEMIES! (again, I threaten Colton and Asher to NOT correct him!) He has plenty of march-enemies.....mainly just girls at school!!! Speaking of school, he stopped writing Kyler on his school papers. He's not even writing Ky. He simply writes....Master Chief. The picture above was taken at breakfast this morning. Notice the medal around his neck, he received it yesterday for his participation in running club this year. Apparently you're not fully dressed for breakfast without a medal around your neck. (or without your raquetball raquet on the table!)

Our family goal is still going strong. We are at 100% of family prayer/breakfast and scriptures. Normally I make breakfast, this morning was the second morning in a row of cocoa pebbles.....NO COMPLAINTS! Today I added smoothies to the menu.....Colton complained, Asher and Kyler did not - as evidenced by the empty glass! What incentive is there to cook?!? No matter.....I challenge myself to making buttermilk pancakes tomorrow! Hopefully all the princes in the land of Arizonia will be happy!

MOTHER/SON DANCE

2011-02-28T06:22:00.000-08:00

The boys elementary school has a great tradition - a Father/Daughter, Mother/Son Dance for 5th and 6th graders. I was only able to go to Colton's 5th grade dance, he had a conflict in 6th grade. Asher also had a conflict for his 5th grade year and this year was our only year to make it. Not sure of what the night would hold I made sure we took our photo in the van before walking in.

I'm glad I took that photo and was happier still when my son came around to my side of the van and opened the door for me! What a gentleman! We signed in at the door and then went to the food line. Here's our meal:

Asher had the cheese pizza and Mountain Dew.

I had the pepperoni pizza, water bottle and white chocolate chip macadamia cookie...delish.

We danced a little and then Asher was done. He ran off with friends - first out in the halls, then outside. The group came in and hit the dance floor sans moms! He isn't shy and had a great time...especially when he was dancing on stage with his friends!!!

I can't believe they'll be in Jr. High next year!!!

Here's a good view of the "dance floor". Asher did dance with me for the last dance. He even had the official dance photo taken with me earlier that night. Afterwards we went out with a few friends for frozen yogurt. It was a great evening. Kyler, watch out....you're next!

PRESIDENTS DAY

2011-02-23T12:05:00.000-08:00

Monday I made a wonderful turkey dinner - complete with mashed potatoes, stuffing, sweet potato gratin and cranberry jelly! Delish!!! Didn't it turn out so beautiful! THANK YOU to Jacquelen for giving this turkey to us at Christmas time!!!

In other news: Asher attended a choral festival yesterday. It was a really great field trip (and he was able to miss a whole day of school!) and I was happy to go with him. The day started with a high school choir performing for the kids, followed by a Q & A session. Then off to two classes and a quick performance before the choirs all performed their final songs. Way to go, Asher!!! I can't believe he's almost done with elementary school, he's growing up too quick!

(Update: we're still going strong with our family mornings!)

REFLECTIONS

2011-02-21T06:59:00.000-08:00

Our sunset was so beautiful Friday night I had to capture it. It was just before a nice rainy weekend. I love rainy weekends. I pretend I don't live in a desert but up in the Pacific Northwest. Then it stops raining, everything dries out and I'm thankful to live in the desert again where I don't deal with the constant damp. This last weekend I also attended a funeral. Kirk and Karen Jones used to live in our ward. About 2 1/2 years ago, Kirk was diagnosed with ALS and they needed a single level home to make getting around easier. After they moved we heard occasional updates on his health and a week ago Sunday we heard that he would be passing away within the week. I spent all day Valentine's day thinking about Kirk and Karen and their family. They're such a great family and have been great examples to me and my family. He passed away on February 15th and they funeral was on Saturday. On the back of the funeral program they had their family's mission statement printed. Again, they are such an example to us! Tony and I have given ourselves the challenge of making a family mission statement. Today I'll leave you with the Jones Family Mission Statement:

Our family is responsible for maintaining a home where we are happy, have fun are safe and care for each other. We live our lives based on Christ centered principles and values. Our family accepts who we are and recognizes who we can be. We are a humble family that seeks higher learning. Our family is doing whatever it takes to be a celestial family, to live together with our Heavenly Father and we will have joy in the journey.

FAMILY BREAKFAST - DAY 5

2011-02-18T07:48:00.000-08:00

(Kyler and Tony photographed by Kyler!)

Well day 5 is here and we have successfully navigated through the entire week with an early morning family prayer, breakfast and scripture study!!!!!!!! The best part today was that Tony made the breakfast. (Colton doesn't have orchestra on Friday's so Tony doesn't have to take him to school. We all have a little more time in the morning on Fridays.) He browned up some turkey sausage (boys said they did not like it.....even though they ate it) and made some biscuits with butter and jam. Yummy and simple.....especially since I didn't have to do anything! It was really weird sleeping in this morning......I didn't wake up until 6:21!!!!! After breakfast I read 2 Nephi 11 and got all three boys to school. Tomorrow morning we'll be missing Tony and Asher but I plan to pray, eat and read with Colton and Kyler. We'll be sure to say an extra prayer for Tony and Asher that they don't freeze (literally!) on their snow campout!

This week has been a blessing. My mind is so much clearer. So many things that I would normally stress about have been put into better perspective. Tony and I know that we're starting our day and our family's day off the right way. I'm more focused and find even more joy in motherhood....and I really loved motherhood before! Now the challenge ahead is to keep waking at 6am, keep gathering our family for prayer, keep making breakfast and keep opening our scriptures. As Richard G. Scott said: To reach a goal you have never before attained, you must do things you have never before done. I also like what President Hinckley had to say: Please don't nag yourself with thoughts of failure. Do not set goals far beyond your capacity to achieve. Simply do what you can do, in the best way you know, and the Lord will accept of your effort. Our goal is set, it is in our capacity to achieve it and we'll continue to do our best and I know we'll continue to be blessed for it.

FAMILY BREAKFAST - DAY 4

2011-02-17T06:13:00.000-08:00

Day 4 and going strong! This morning we added kneeling for our family prayer. 6:30 am we are on our knees in the family room (only carpeted room in the house!) and ready for the prayer. Such a good feeling! This morning I made scrambled eggs (which I can't eat in the morning) for the boys and Tony. Since we had our prayer at 6:30....instead of 6:38 let's say.....we had more time for scripture reading. We finished 2 Nephi 9 and all of 2 Nephi 10! Great Morning! I'm already finding it easier to wake in the mornings....bonus! (Asher and Kyler are playing air guitar to a Journey CD.....Kyler's doing a guitar solo right now.....Did I already say it's a good morning!!!!)

Last night was good too! We had hamburgers for dinner with some baked zucchini fries.....YUM! It would have been great to get a photo of them all piled up on the plate...but the whole family inhaled them! Here's the only shot I got of the yummy goodness. Now I'm off to plan our Friday breakfast, take kids to school, clean the bathrooms, do some laundry, unload the dishwasher, READ and attend a cooking class. I LOVE THURSDAYS!!!!!

FAMILY BREAKFAST - DAY 3

2011-02-16T06:10:00.000-08:00

Don't be fooled by this photo! Kyler did his usual complaining this morning...too bad I didn't invest in those ear plugs! I made buttermilk pancakes (MY FAVORITE!!!!) we also had blueberries and strawberries and some leftover bananablueberry muffins from yesterday afternoon. Kyler told me yesterday that he really did not like yesterday's snack. Then this morning I heard how much he didn't like buttermilk pancakes. But he still ate one, but that may have been under threat....whatever! He's now getting ready for school and I'm counting down the minutes to peace and quiet! (is that wrong?!?) We did meet our goal though: family prayer, family breakfast and family scripture study...what more can I ask!

Now on to last Saturday's news:

KYLER LEARNED TO RIDE A BIKE!

We had never made the attempt and he was not interested, but I felt it was time! I thought he would appreciate going to the park to learn. (grass=softer fall) But he didn't agree. Colton did his best with him.

So did Asher!

Then Tony got him riding a little bit around the playground. Once I realized he wouldn't be back on the grass I suggested we just go home and practice in the cul-de-sac.

Here's Kyler standard pose lately....well, minus the hand signs. I wish I was able to get a picture of him riding, but trust me....HE CAN RIDE NOW! We're so excited for this boy and all the freedom that comes with this new talent! He comes home everyday asking to ride his bike. I love it! Anything to help wear him out is a HUGE BLESSING!

FAMILY BREAKFAST - DAY 2

2011-02-15T06:09:00.000-08:00

First, I have to tell you about the photo. After Kyler's nightly shower, I brush his hair and discovered the other day that we could get a Wolverine look. His hair was drying too quick and I didn't have great lighting, but I had to have a photo of this. He LOVES the new do and runs around the house thinking he is Wolverine. I in turn just think of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine....WIN-WIN!!!! Now back to our regularly scheduled post: I did it again...I awoke at 6am and went to the kitchen to make my family breakfast. As we were all gathered this morning, we had our family prayer and I read from the Book of Mormon while they ate.....well......not everyone ate. I made omelettes (per Colton's request) and was trying to channel Julia Child. The last one actually looked like Julia's! I was so proud of myself. I sprinkled some cheese on it and had it ready for Kyler who DID NOT appreciate the offering. He was upset I had put cheese on it - but Kyler your scrambled eggs ALWAYS have cheese in them! Then he asked in a strange voice if they were scrambled eggs which I emphatically said YES! in an attempt to get him to eat them. If I would have said it was an omelette I don't think he would have touched eggs again for the next two years. He may be adventurous in many areas....food is NOT one of them! After Colton and Tony were out the door and Asher was headed to the shower, I had to bring my 6 year old and his plate to me and feed him like a baby! Of course I removed the superfluous cheese (and fed it to Roscoe who is VERY APPRECIATIVE of my cooking!) and fed that entire omelette to my boy. Despite the snags this morning, I will arise early tomorrow and again feed my family....maybe with earplugs, but I'll do it!

I just couldn't post without showing you my lovely side dish with lunch yesterday - Swiss Chard! I bought it from One Windmill Farms at a Farmer's Market. It looked so delicious and was stirring so many memories from my childhood, I had to buy a bunch. I sauteed it with a little vegetable broth and garlic and IT WAS DELICIOUS! Tony was home for lunch and even loved it and he has an aversion to healthy, green food!

VALENTINE'S DAY

2011-02-14T07:02:00.001-08:00

Valentine's Day coincides with the new goals Tony and I talked about last night. Well, it wasn't the first thoughts I had had on these goals....but we finally decided to step out and DO IT! (Do is my word for the year...more info coming) Goal: Family Prayer in the morning. Goal: Scripture reading in the morning. Goal: Breakfast at the table with ALL 5 of us! The wonderful thing is that they all work together. The horrid thing...they all work together. We need to stay on top of this to make it happen....which I have faith in us to do! I think the hardest part of this goal for me is to wake up no later than 6am. But I did it this morning! My menu this morning was just blender pancakes...easy peasy. As I gathered the griddle, soft white wheat and powdered milk, I noticed the oranges on the counter. I quickly grabbed my juicer and squeezed all the oranges plus a couple of ruby red grapefruits into a delicious drink. I even grabbed my funnel and poured the juice into two glass bottles. As the blender pancakes were blending, I set a simple table and grabbed some blueberries and strawberries. This breakfast was coming together nicely.

This is the nicest picture I was going to get of my boys this morning. I'm impressed that Kyler is even using utensils! I'm not impressed how Kyler is blocking Asher in the picture.

We had our family prayer before breakfast, everyone sat down to a delicious meal and I was able to read from the Book of Mormon while they were eating. SUCCESS! Tony and Colton then ran off to school and work, Asher and Kyler got ready for the day and I dropped them off at 7:45 this morning (the earliest you can drop them off). WHAT A GREAT MORNING!

Happy Valentine's Day!

JADE

2011-02-09T08:36:00.000-08:00

Here she is! Miss Jade Audra Scrimshaw!!!!

Catherine was so happy to welcome her first child last week! This girl weighed in at 7 pounds 14 ounces and was 20 inches long. She was also blessed with a gorgeous head of hair! After her first bath at home, Catherine had to comb all that hair.

I love this photo of mama and baby looking at each other!

Kisses!!!!

Jade relaxed a bit too much during her first shampoo!

I MISS THIS GIRL!!!!!

Relaxing with mama!

As much fun as we had with Catherine and Jade....there was so much more to celebrate - Audra's upcoming wedding!!! We had so much fun veil and jewelry shopping! Can't wait for the Purple Peacock Wedding in April!

Here's the lucky man that has Audra's heart!

Congratulations Steve and Audra!

It was such a great weekend! We had 4 of the 5 siblings together. Jean-Jacques and Linda drove up from Utah to meet Jade and Steve. We missed Austin but are so happy he's serving his mission. (15 months to go!)

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to Dad and Connie for a FANTASTIC weekend! We had so much fun with everyone and so much fun ORGANIZING!!!!! Can't wait to see everyone again in April for the wedding!

CH-CH-CH-CHANGES!

2011-02-02T07:21:00.000-08:00

(Catherine and Sean's wedding-2009)

This happy couple just entered a new phase in their marriage - PARENTHOOD! Jade Audra was born on the afternoon of January 31st. She weighed in at 7 pounds 14 ounces and was 20 inches long. I hear she has lots of dark hair......I haven't seen a picture. I hear she is gorgeous......I haven't seen a picture. I hear she has all 10 fingers and 10 toes......I haven't seen a picture. So I'll just have to celebrate her arrival from afar and picture her in my mind's eye until someone sends a photo....or I fly out on Friday and see for myself! (which ever comes first!) And I'll end with a little conversation with Kyler.

Mom: Your cousin, Jade Audra was born today!

Ky: Jade. Audra. That's so weird that Catherine's baby has Audra's name in it. Hey mom, who was born first with Austin, Catherine and Audra?

Mom: Audra was first, then Austin and then Catherine.

Ky: That's AWESOME!!!!!

Audra's the first because she's the WORST!

Austin is second cause he's the BEST!!!!!!!

and Catherine's third cause she's the NERD!

Ahhhhh, to be the mother of all boys!

(by Kyler's logic....he's a NERD!!!)

CONGRATULATIONS CAT & SEAN!!!!!

CHANGE...THE ONLY CONSTANT!!!!!

2011-01-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

March 18, 1996 I walked back into my own home after my short hospital stay with a new baby in my arms. Tony and my dad unloaded the car of my bags, diaper bag, all the hospital stuff, and my flowers. I was so happy to be a mom and everything seemed perfect. Then the baby woke up. Real life had begun and we were busy! I'll never forget the shock I felt when I was walking through my family room and noticed that the beautiful flowers we had brought home from the hospital were dead! Not recently dead....but DEAD DEAD.....like they would fit into the Adamm's Family home! I wondered where the time went. Hadn't I just brought my one day old boy home?! How did they have time to die?!? It was eye opening how fast time goes by.

Well, that's how I'm feeling again. Mita's been gone for more than two weeks now. The funeral is done. The flowers have died. And life goes on. Thankfully, I'm surrounded by wonderful friends who have loved our family all along the way. Our beehives (girls 12-13 from our church) came and heart attacked our home! They left some yummy popcorn and lots of notes sharing their love for our family!

Isn't LOVE the BEST!!!!!

Here's more LOVE!

This was taken at Catherine's wedding in August 2009.

So....where are my sisters and brother now? Audra just got engaged!!!!!!! She will become Mrs. Audra Yeager in April! Austin is serving in the Roseville, CA Mission (spanish-speaking)! Catherine is expecting her first baby in just a couple of weeks!!!! I can't wait to meet my niece - Miss Jade Audra Scrimshaw!

Shortly after Jade makes her debut, Catherine will have her own lesson in how fast time flies. Her hospital flowers will die. Jade will outgrow her first onesies and Catherine will be busy! For me, time is racing by! My first baby is now in high school. He's actually spending the day at ASU on a field trip. Asher is in 6th grade and it's scary to think he'll be in Jr. High next year! Kyler is already in 1st grade and last night asked if I would leave his room so he could have some "Me Time". I think Ferris Bueller said it best: "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."

MITA

2011-01-05T16:40:00.000-08:00

At 6:04 am on Tuesday, January 4th, 2011 my Mita passed away. We'll celebrate her life this weekend with services and I'm sure LOTS of family time. I plan to write a tribute to her soon, but for now I'll just share photos and a little information. Je t'aime Mita!

The first photo is Mother's Day 1996. It was my first Mother's Day with my 2 month old Colton, my mom's first Mother's Day as a grandma, and Mita's first Mother's Day at a Great-Grandma (which she wanted to be BEFORE she died!) Last week my cousin Candice delivered her daughter, Skylar Reese. Skylar is Mita's 40th Great-Grandchild!!!!!!!

I'm not sure when this 4 generation picture was taken. She loves her grandchildren, but LOVE-LOVES her great-grandchildren!!!!

Here's Mita and Papa with their first two grandchildren, Jacquelen and ME! I know it can be deceiving but Jacquelen and I are NOT that close together in age! She was born in the 60's and I was born in the 70's - a full decade apart!!!!!

This is a more recent photo.....probably the last couple of years. Mita with 8 of her 17 grandchildren. Scott, Me, Jason, Kari, Becky, Emily, Jacquelen and Rachael.

Would you like to know the order of all 17 grandchildren? Here goes....I've had it memorized for years: Jacquelen, Nicole, Jason, Jean-Jacques, the rest of you and Scott. You have to be in the top 4 or the baby to be recognized in birth order! I can really name all of the cousins.....and even tell you birthdays! ("the rest of you" are Candice, Morgan, Benjamin, Matthew, Kari, Marcus, Christin, Rebecca, Emily, Andrew, Rachael, Juliet - LOVE YOU!!!!)

I love this photo of Mita....well, I love the dress! She picked it out to wear to Andrew and Michelle's wedding. It was also the first photo I ever posted on my blog. This was taken during the two years that she lived with me and my family. Oh the stories I could tell! And I will, this weekend with my cousins. I plan on crying, laughing, hugging, goofing around and eating with my cousins throughout the weekend. More stories to come!

Juliette Veronique Amelie Peney Cardon

My Mita

OFF TO A GREAT START!

2011-01-02T20:56:00.000-08:00

(April 2010 - my men in their Matching Tie Guy's ties)

2011 is off to a great start! Tony took all the Christmas lights, tree and decorations down on January 1st. He also tidied up the garage, took a box to Bookman's and a box to Goodwill. (yes....I'm still putting nativities up....but they will be put away by tomorrow....I PROMISE!) We made hamburgers and crinkle cut fries for dinner that night. Then today we arrived 12 minutes EARLY to church! That's quite an accomplishment for 8:30am church....especially the first week. We were very worried we wouldn't make it on time with all the late nights we've had this last week, but we did it! Church went by so quick and it was amazing how quiet sacrament meeting was....I think all the kids were tired too. (I don't expect it to be that quiet again) I was even more amazed at how much time we had AFTER church! Today we had pasta with red sauce and alfredo sauce (I was anxious to try a new recipe) with french bread. I also raided my crisper drawers and made a vegetable soup. I've been making soup a lot lately. It's so yummy, inexpensive and reminds me of Mita! After lunch we even went to visit Mita with my mom. She couldn't wake up at all for us, but I'm glad we went to visit. I'm most excited to have one more day with my boys before they go back to school on Tuesday. Here's to a great 2011!!!!

CHRISTMAS - DAY 15

2010-12-16T11:59:00.000-08:00

(July 2005 - Asher after a water ride!)

Day 15 was all about this boy! He had his Christmas Choir Concert! I'm so proud of him for accepting the invitation to join choir. He really has enjoyed participating this year. (but don't ask him - he'll never say so!) He even auditioned for their spring production of High School Musical. I can't wait until January when we find out what part he'll get! Way to go, Ash!

CHRISTMAS - DAY 14

2010-12-14T19:36:00.000-08:00

(rub-a-dub-dub my three men in a tub 2005)

Day 14.......well....we are in finish-up-the-semester-mode. Colton's busy studying for finals (wed&thurs), Asher's frantically reading (last night to read for AR tests), Kyler needs a bath (how did he sneak out of it the last couple of nights!), Dad's practicing a solo for our Ward Christmas Sacrament Meeting, Mom is trying to keep a supply of patience while babysitting, driving kids to choir rehearsals, shopping for important things like shampoo, maintaining the house (for my sanity) and helping the kids stay on track! So I officially declare that mom keeping a supply of patience for everyone and everything was the family gift today. (we didn't need an activity....we need a break!)

2010-12-13T11:32:00.000-08:00

(October 2005)

Time to play catch up! Christmas days 9 through 12 - we've watched shows! Boring, maybe? Practical - for sure!!! We're busy with homework, babysitting kids, dinner, YM/YW, sickness, etc. It seemed like watching something is all I could manage. Saturday night we went out to Serrano's with my mom (THANKS, MOM) and came home to watch Stalking Santa. Sunday we watched Sorcerer's Apprentice (my boys LOVE it! they couldn't wait to show it to their dad). Tonight, the boys are going to help Tony put up colored lights on the back patio. I've always wanted the lights here since we're always in the family room. I hope to enjoy them later tonight as we sip on hot cocoa (our hot cocoa bar is a family favorite). I am planning more hands-on activities as soon as the kids are out of school! Thursday is their last day and our Relief Society Progressive Talent Night which will make their 1st stop at our home. Friday will be the official start of our break, the official start of Tony's vacation and the official start of some FUN with the kids!

WE INTERRUPT THE 25 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS FOR THIS

2010-12-10T07:54:00.001-08:00

Are you ready for this?

mean,

are

you

REALLY

READY?!?

JEDI ROSCOE!

Nice action shot, huh!

The only problem.....he's on the dark side!

Curse you, Jacquelen!!!!!!!

CHRISTMAS - DAY 8

2010-12-08T19:20:00.000-08:00

Is my family getting more pathetic?!? I'm really trying to do more Christmas themed activities, but we're BUSY!!!!!! We watched The Middle together tonight....it was a Christmas one...does that count? (we didn't watch The Middle when it was actually on...we taped it and watched it once everyone was home from mutual) We love this show!!!!! I did want to share a food blog I follow http://www.bigredkitchen.com Robin Sue is posting an advent calendar for 25 days! I plan to try her eggnog muffins tomorrow. Enjoy!

CHRISTMAS - DAY 7

2010-12-08T06:23:00.000-08:00

Day 7 was a repeat as Day 6, Charlie Brown Christmas Special. There were additions to the day such as another Charlie Brown special, some Santa's helper special and these cookies! My kids LOVE these cookies so much that they are on their Christmas lists!!!! I can't wait for my kids to not be so busy with school that we can do something more with our evenings. Until then....thank you Charlie Brown and Pillsbury!

CHRISTMAS - DAY 6

2010-12-07T08:01:00.001-08:00

Can you guess what we watched last night? I love the Charlie Brown Christmas special! I love that my kids are enjoying the same shows I did as a kid. And I think it's a crack up that the tree is for sale this year. I can't wait until the kids are out of school for Christmas break and we can do other activities. For now we'll keep enjoying our Christmas movies.

CHRISTMAS - DAY 5

2010-12-06T08:38:00.000-08:00

Our family time wasn't Christmas themed...just lots of fun time together. After church, we watched America's Funniest Videos (AFV) as a family and played Kyler's favorite game - CHARADES!!!!! That game was NEVER my favorite or even a game I liked as a girl. I was too embarrassed to play it! But Kyler (who never gets embarrassed...unless he has a turkey feathered bottom) could play this game forever. Which is quite a feat when you consider his words are generally about superhero movies or video games. When he first discovered charades, he only acted out Spiderman or Wolverine. He also always held up 3 fingers for 3 words. Confusing since Spiderman and Wolverine are only one word each. He wasn't telling us the amount of words, he was telling us how many syllables there were! It was REALLY interesting trying to play with him when he veered from Spidey and Wolverine! I should have taken a photo of Kyler acting things out, he's always very enthusiastic about it.

This is what most Sunday evenings look like at our home. It's the easiest time for me to run the kids laundry through and know that they have the clothes they need for the week. Colton was so happy to tell me what he learned in church. He even grabbed me in the hall to inform me. He learned (and it was even in the teacher's manual - he liked having the black and white proof) that we are NOT to do ANY chores in our homes on Sunday. Now that's a rule he can really get behind! He did say if I was willing to relax the no video games on Sunday rule, he'd be willing to bend the no house chores rule for me. I know....you wish you had such a thoughtful teen!!!!

CHRISTMAS - DAY 4

2010-12-04T22:04:00.000-08:00

Our family activity today has been a favorite of the kids - Robison Orthodontics Snow Party! The boys LOVE attending this party every year. They have snow for the kids to play in, face painting, bounce house, in the past they've had a game truck and this year they had a rock wall. And the food....there's plenty of hot chocolate, orange juice, water bottles, muffins, brownie bites, cookies, cinnamon rolls, etc. If that wasn't enough, they even have Santa!!!! Well, the boys were so excited to attend.......until we realized a couple of things. Colton has a job! Asher had an all day competition! The only boy that could attend was Kyler........so am I able to count it as a family activity?!? The Stock's are in trouble if we can't since we weren't able to all five be together today! I'm counting it though. There was definitely lots of family time today.

Kyler loved throwing snowballs. This was not representative of the snowballs he was forming - I Promise! I was just making him slow down and pose for a picture where he was actually looking in my direction. The photo below shows him just after throwing a snowball.

While I was with Kyler and Colton was at work, Tony and Asher were here.

It was an all day event! It was scheduled for 8am to 5pm....but they weren't out of there until 6 pm. They had technical judging, presentation judging, a practice run, and three competitive runs. Again...it was a LONG day! Kyler and I showed up to watch their 1st competitive run.

After they would compete, they would regroup and adjust their programming. I love that Asher is able to participate in this. He really does love it.

Asher's team....The Pathfinders!

I'm really proud of Asher for all the hard work he put into this. Since August, he has spent 2 hrs every Tuesday AND every Thursday afternoon preparing for competition. It was a big commitment for this boy, but he's familiar with commitment. (He's been in Tae Kwon Do almost 3 years now and holds a Deputy Black Belt.) Now for much deserved R & R....and maybe some family time!

CHRISTMAS DAY 2 & 3

2010-12-03T06:36:00.000-08:00

I just LOVE this photo!!!!!

It's one of the first ones I took with my digital camera on Christmas Day 2004. There were many big gifts for our family that year......Kyler miraculously came into our lives, his adoption was finalized and he was sealed to us for time and all eternity! This year I just want more time with my family and I'm getting it! I can't wait until the kids are out of school for the break. Tony will also be taking vacation time during their break. I'M SO EXCITED!!!!!!! Until December 17th I'll just have to take smaller bits of time with everyone. Everyday in December we're doing some activity as a family. December 2nd we attended the tamale dinner at Colton's school and then drove around to see some Christmas lights. Tonight we're watching a Christmas movie....don't know which one yet. There are TOO many to choose from!

LAST BITS OF NOVEMBER AND WELCOME DECEMBER

2010-12-02T08:22:00.000-08:00

The Monday before Thanksgiving we had a dilemma. Colton had an orchestra concert and Kyler had the 1st Grade Thanksgiving Concert. Both of the boys wanted their dad to go with them.....(YES, I'm such a horror to be with!....wow...not feeling the love!) and really....who should be punished with my presence?! Since Tony went to Kyler's concert last year, I was the one to attend this year. My friend, Renee took the photo of him and I'm so THANKFUL since I didn't bring my camera! I finally had something I could share on here about Kyler and I wasn't prepared....again, Thanks, Renee! Before the concert I asked Kyler if he was nervous. He thought that was a ridiculous question.....why would he be nervous? He said he was fine, but there was one part of the program that was going to embarrass him. I was pretty sure they didn't have to kiss someone....so I couldn't imagine what else could possibly embarrass this boy! During a Chilean song about turkeys....the children (who were wearing a belt of turkey feathers on their backside) turned and shook their feathered booties to the audience. After shaking it, Kyler looked at me and gestured "SEE.....EMBARRASSING, HUH!!!!!" Life really does baffle me at times......my-bodily-functions-are-funny-don't-like-to-shut-the-door-while-in-the-bathroom-talk-about-inappropriate-things-all-the-time-son (that I can hardly blog about because I'M TOO EMBARRASSED to let the world know...by the way, Ryan - I have a story about Kyler jumping....that's all I can say....remind me next time I see you) is really embarrassed by shaking his turkey feathered bootie in public. Did not see that one coming! I love this photo, but it did not represent Kyler's performance. Picture him yawning....and you've nailed it!!!!! He yawned throughout the ENTIRE program......and it wasn't that long! I wish I had video of it....it reminded me of Asher performing around that age. During the song firefly (which was very slow and not his favorite) Asher yawned about a dozen times...and yes, it is on video!

Another event in November was our Young Women in Excellence program. I was not only invited....but none of the girls complained that I showed up instead of Tony....SCORE! This photo is missing a few of our girls - two that couldn't make it and one that hides from our cameras! Yes, Meghan....that's you!

Here's our dessert table! The centerpiece was put together by the wonderful Cynthia Baxter!!!!!!! I was so inspired by the centerpieces on all the tables that I took home some leftover branches and made my own very simplified centerpiece for our Thanksgiving. (no lights, birds, bow, or filler in the vase....I told you SIMPLE!) I was in charge of the refreshments. I chose lots of bite-sized desserts and water to drink. We had 3 different kinds of Cookies (Thanks, Deanna!), Cream Puffs (Thanks, Elaine), Cupcakes (Thanks, Brianna), Brownie Bites and Oreo Truffles from me. (did you notice I capitalized all the desserts....they are THAT important...to me!) It was a great evening as always....I love the Young Women!

And finally......WELCOME TO DECEMBER!

I really wanted to have a family activity every day in December and we are at 100% so far!!!!! Last night, our whole family decorated our tree while listening to the Alvin and the Chipmunks Christmas album. I used to listen to that album when I was a kid. I would get permission to go into Mita and Papa's living room and get the red....YES, RED, disk of vinyl out of the sleeve and place it so carefully on the record player. I even fell asleep in their once while listening. After the record ended Mita and Papa were searching for me and thought I was lost. They yelled for me (I am and have always been a very, very sound sleeper) and searched everywhere.....except the closed off living room....which is where they found me a while later, snoozing and holding on to the album cover. (there is a slide of that picture they took somewhere....maybe I'll search for it one day) Anyways.....back to 2010......my boys were all happy to open their advent calenders before bed. What a way to end the day....with chocolate!

THANKSGIVING RECAP

2010-11-29T08:47:00.000-08:00

This year we were blessed to have two Thanksgivings! I wanted to make a turkey for both and my first turkey went so smooth and was delicious! The second turkey....not so smooth. I had been baking and the oven was at the correct temperature when the turkey was put in the oven.....only problem........the oven got turned OFF! (yes, Tony put the turkey in the oven for me.....mmmmm....I wonder how the oven got turned off?!?) I didn't notice this fact until 1 1/2 hours had passed. After a little panic set in....we tried the TURN THE OVEN ON method and everything went well from there. (well....we ate later than we planned.....but we ate!) You would think that I would take pictures of our fantastic dinner....but I didn't. Our menu: turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, sweet potato gratin (a DELICIOUS savory dish.....again, DELICIOUS!), rolls, and sparkling grape juice. After dinner we quickly cleaned up to welcome extended family for dessert. Everyone contributes to dessert and we all talked while the kids run around. Our home was so full of people and noise.....we call that a HUGE SUCCESS. My contribution to the dessert - chocolate truffles from Costco and two chocolate pecan pies. Isn't it beautiful!

I don't know how this photo got on my camera.

Lesson: If you snap it, I will share!

It wouldn't be the holidays without a meal at Blue Adobe Grill.

Jacquelen's stacked enchiladas with red enchilada sauce!

My mom's tenderloin relleno and lobster tamale with green enchilada sauce!

My Cruz Kitchen: tenderloin relleno and smoked pork tamale, Christmas style (red and green enchilada sauce)....YUM!!!!!

Putting puzzles together is not my normal tradition....but I always want it to be! Colton and Asher helped me do this 1000 piece puzzle. It was a used puzzle from Bookmans....so I didn't think I'd be too upset if the puzzle had a missing piece. It had 999 pieces! (i was upset) Can you find the missing piece? I still felt an accomplishment from finishing it though....I think the boys did too. (especially since they pulled out the Simpson's 1000 piece puzzle...maybe next weekend) Tony was amazed that we finished it so quick - just Sunday afternoon!

Sunday I decided to bake some rolls again......THEY WERE HUGE!

Half were made into rolls....half into cinnamon rolls. One pan of cinnamon rolls had regular glaze, one pan had maple....both were delicious! (how many times have I used that word?!?)

It was a wonderful weekend with lots of great food, family, friends, movies, games, etc. We ended the best 4 days with half naked boys wrestling in the family room! (I think it was a good transition back to reality)

Kyler loves to beat up his brothers.....how sweet!

Even Colton got into the mix!

Roscoe stayed out of reach, but close by.

I'm so thankful for all the craziness and love in my life!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!

1st THANKSGIVING OF 2010

2010-11-22T22:21:00.000-08:00

Yes...you read that correctly...our 1st Thanksgiving of 2010. Jean-Jacques and Linda came in to town this weekend to be with his children and I thought it would be fun to have Thanksgiving dinner with them. We set a simple autumn table for the adults. The kids had bright colored cafeteria style trays to use. We had the traditional Thanksgiving menu: Turkey, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Stuffing, Green Beans, Cranberry Sauce, Rolls, and a Pumpkin Pie. The only item not so traditional, but totally appropriate was the Pumpkin Spice Cake with Creme Anglaise. (Thank you Jean-Jacques and Sariah....it was delish!!!!) It was all so YUMMY!!! Yummy enough to make it again on Thursday - when we'll all enjoy the 2nd Thanksgiving of 2010!

THE SCHOOL FALL FESTIVAL

2010-11-08T08:46:00.000-08:00

This is our 7th year at our elementary school. In all those years I have gone to the fall festival. It's our biggest fundraiser of the year and I not only like to support our school, but the kids have a great time! I've even done my turn as a fall festival parent. I've set up booths, taken down booths, sent millions of letters home asking for help, put together our classroom silent auction basket, attended meetings, and worked with lots of parents. But this year....I'm just tired! It was the first year I didn't want to even go to the fall festival. So....I decided to not give myself a hard time and ask Tony if he would take the kids alone. He didn't have a problem taking them or volunteering at the booths I was going to work at.....SCORE! (thanks, tony) This year Colton also decided to stay home....yes, he IS too cool for this school!

When Tony, Asher and Kyler came home we were greeted by this!

Kyler had his face painted.....as what you might ask?!?

A zombie, of course!

(apparently this zombie plays soccer)

The scariest part about that night.....no, not these glasses...

(although I did freak out my mom and Tony with them....heehee)

The scariest part was hearing all about Asher's night.....the hanging out with his friends and GIRLS!!!!!!! He was too cool for the games and decided to spend his tickets on food/drinks and just hang out with his friends. DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH THIS KILLS ME?!?!?? I've accepted (for the most part) that Colton is a teen and growing up.....but NOT my Asher!!! My Asher that used to snuggle with me ALL THE TIME!!!!! The boy that loved being by my side! Well....THE BOY!!!!! He's not a boy anymore and I'm having a very hard time with it!!!!!!!!

(side note: I watched Toy Story 3 for the 1st time last night. I heard from all my friends that they got emotional with this one. I was totally prepared and made it through the movie great. I was even wondering what they were talking about until the very end of the movie. I could feel my emotions running away and then.........well, if you thought Tempe Town Lake bursting down the Salt River was dramatic.....that was nothing compared to my water works!!! I was only consoled by the fact that Colton is just a freshman in high school. On the bright side...I got a great cry in!)

HALLOWEEN

2010-11-05T08:45:00.001-07:00

I was so proud of the boys for making their own jack-o-lanterns this year. Tony helped clean them out, but they all made their own designs. Here's Colton's...

Asher's.....

Kyler's.....those orange things sticking out are his "ears"

That's what Kyler says.....and if Kyler says it....it must be true!!!

Inspired by my neighbor....I decided to roast the pumpkin seeds of all three pumpkins.

After taking them out of the orange innards, I washed them...

Aren't they looking clean?!

Then I spread them out on a cookie sheet, sprayed them with a little vegalene, sprinkled some herbamare on it, and baked them. They turned out so good.....we couldn't stop eating them! Thankfully I still have some left. I'll be sprinkling them on top of some butternut squash soup in the next couple of weeks. YUM! Now if the weather would get out of the mid-90's I could really get into fall!

Do you roast pumpkin seeds? What fall traditions are your favorite?

ASHER'S DIRTY LITTLE SECRET!

2010-11-04T08:45:00.001-07:00

Asher launders money!!!!

This kid is loaded after his birthday!!!