A Moment of Clarity

One Year Later...

2011-09-22T11:19:00.000-06:00

It was one year ago yesterday that we lost sweet Jessica. It is still pretty tender and extremely bittersweet in the fact that while we no longer have her here on this earth with us, part of her lives on with others who, I am sure, are so grateful to her gifts through organ donation. I am so thankful for the plan of salvation and the life, example and atonement of Jesus Christ that makes it possible to be with our family members again once this mortal phase of life is complete.

Ten Years...

2011-09-11T18:55:00.000-06:00

As the world remembers 9/11 today, I thought I would reflect back on my memories of that day, too. Everett and I were up early that morning getting ready to be to work by 8 a.m. Ethan was not quite 2 years old yet. I turned on the news, like I do every single morning, and saw the images of the first tower with smoke billowing out of it. At this point, the news commentators were still speculating as to what had actually happened. Witnesses saw a plane, but it wasn't really clear at this point if it had crashed into the World Trade Center tower on accident or what. Everett and I watched as we got ready that morning and saw as the second tower was struck by another plane. Wow! At that point, it couldn't be coincidence that both towers were hit by planes. What was happening? As we sat there that morning, watching people make their way down the Manhattan streets, even some jumping from the burning buildings knowing full well that they were too high up to survive, we could hardly find words to describe the stunned feelings we were experiencing. I remember stepping out of the bathroom after drying my hair to check on the status of the news and watched as the first tower began to crumble. "There it goes, there it goes, there it goes!" was all that I remember saying. All through the day I kept close to the news. Joann, the receptionist at the office, kept her radio on all day and the entire mood of the day took on a somber, melancholy feel. I felt bad because my friend, Paula's birthday is September 11th and it should have been a joyous day and here we all were, scared and sad and sick about what was happening 3,000 miles away. News began to come in about the Pentagon and yet another plane that had gone down in a field in Pennsylvania, I believe. Would they attack us out west? Which target was next on their list? That day is still vivid to me. It is tender and evokes many emotions, both sad ones and also ones of great pride and patriotism in our country and its men and women who are willing to defend our freedoms and those around the world, the brave firemen, the brave individuals on the fourth plane that wouldn't allow it to be used as a weapon and died fighting the hijackers on that Pennsylvania field. I don't think we will ever fully understand what happened or why that day ten years ago, but it has fundamentally changed this country. Will we, as a country, be able to forget what happened on our home soil? Never. Will we be able to move on and overcome? Definately, although we may do so through great tribulation. After all, that is the spirit with which this country was first founded.

Ethan, Lisa and Me

2011-08-20T09:01:00.004-06:00

Just a couple of old pics that I came across that I love...

Lisa and I are waiting ever so patiently for the Lady Antebellum/Tim McGraw concert in Boise.

Goofy ol' Ethan.

New Toy

2011-08-20T08:56:00.005-06:00

Everett surprised me with a new Canon 60D camera which I have been playing around with some. Here are a few of the photos I've been experimenting with:

Just Keep Swimming...

2011-08-12T09:46:00.003-06:00

This my favorite quote from Finding Nemo when I think of enduring things in life. I am trying to employ this quote in my life right now. The end of summer is in sight and there are 17 days left until school starts. We will make it! Also, I am now up to 1.8 miles running non-stop (two loops around McCowin Park in Ammon) and am going to attempt to make it 2.7 miles this weekend. The St. Luke's 5K is September 24th in Boise and I just might be able to run the whole thing if I just keep swimming, just keep swimming...

The First Step is the Hardest (sigh)

2011-07-26T09:49:00.002-06:00

Okay, I must preface this post by stating the obvious. I am not, nor have I ever been, a runner. I don't enjoy it and don't do it gracefully. My face flushes at the slightest physical exertion and sweat begins rolling. Not pretty.

BUT...running just may offer the best "bang for the buck" that I need when it comes to exercise. Doc Hodges wants me to do an hour of "vigorous" exercise a day. One. Hour. A. Day?! That will kill me in my present state, so I am attempting to get moving more by running a little at a time and gradually building up my endurance. I've done two days of running now. The first day I ran 1/2 mile without stopping and walked 1/2 mile. I must say I was proud of myself because I didn't think I could make it a full lap before having to walk. Last night I ran a lap, then walked 1/2 lap on and off so that I ran a total of 1 mile and walked 1/2 mile before I was done in. In my defense, it was rather hot and humid last night. I may need to switch to early morning runs.

My friend, Marcy is getting started, too. Hopefully we can inspire and motivate each other into fitness. Heaven knows, I really need it!

New Blog

2011-05-11T14:32:00.000-06:00

I have decided to branch off my blogging into a second blog devoted mainly to crafts, cooking and other creative outlets. I cannot promise that life and its little faces won't make an appearance now and again. Stop by Blue Rosie's Corner and see what's happening: http://bluerosiescorner.blogspot.com/

*Edit* For those who may not know Braelyn very well, Blue Rosie is my daughter's imaginary dalmation pet, thus the photo.

One Year Older...

2011-01-09T19:15:00.003-07:00

Yes, I reached 36 years of age this week. I feel like I was celebrating my 35th birthday just a short while ago. This year has flown by! I've been reflecting on myself lately and thought that I would share some of me with you. I am borrowing the list idea from here .

Making : myself feel guilty because I feel spread a little too thin all the time.
Cooking : chocolate chip cookies for the kids' lunches this week
Drinking : what else, Diet Coke
Reading: right now I'm floating between "The Help", "6 Rainier Drive" by Debbie Macomber on my Nook and Real Simple magazine.
Wanting: a kitchen remodel so bad I can taste it.
Looking: at the basket of laundry that didn't get folded this weekend
Playing: Michael Buble
Wasting: money on two gym memberships because I always forget to cancel the one I don't want until the office is closed
Sewing: myself the next quilt. I usually give away my quilt projects but the next one is for me - lime green, black and white
Wishing: I could smell the ocean right now. I love that smell and it's been 6 years since I last smelled it.
Enjoying: watching my husband and kids dance to Katy Perry on the Wii Just Dance
Waiting: for Baby Ava, my niece, to be born any day now.
Liking: the fact that my kids are growing up so close to their grandparents. I didn't get that opportunity until I was much older.
Wondering: whether to grow my hair out some.
Loving: my calling as YW second counsellor. I absolutely love it and the ladies I work with.
Hoping: that someday we can get all the remodeling done in the house.
Marvelling: that I am 36 years old, have been married for 15 years, my oldest will be 12 and getting the priesthood this year and my youngest is going into kindergarten soon.
Needing: an hour to myself
Smelling: chocolate chip cookies just out of the oven.
Wearing: jeans and a polo shirt - standard weekend attire.
Following: season 12 of Biggest Loser. Cheering for the father/daughter team from Idaho.
Noticing: how my family seems to be migrating to Boise one by one and how much I miss them.
Knowing: that someday I will sew something that does not require use of a seam ripper to pick out and redo stitches.
Thinking: about how I am not ready to start the work week tomorrow. There are too many things still left for me to do.
Bookmarking: so many fun, creative blogs with quilting, embroidery and crafty ideas.
Opening: the special issue of the Ensign that focuses on Christ that was given as a handout in Young Women today.
Giggling: about the Halloween pictures I finally downloaded from my camera.
Feeling: grateful, blessed, loved, amazed and humbled.

What My Weekend Consisted Of...

2010-07-25T16:32:00.004-06:00

Time is Going By So Very Fast

2010-05-13T21:13:00.004-06:00

Wow! Two weeks left until summer vacation for my kids ... and they're growing like weeds. I have pretty much given up on taking any "perfect pictures" of the kids where all of three of them are smiling and not blinking or pulling faces. I guess this is pretty much how my life really is :)

And one of Mr. Skippy. I must admit that he has wiggled his way into my heart with those puppy dog eyes, one green and one blue.

Isn't She a Beauty?

2010-05-13T21:10:00.002-06:00

"She" is my new beach-cruiser bicycle that Everett gave me for Mother's Day. I actually got it several days before Mother's Day and have been having a BLAST riding it around the neighborhood.

Cross One Off

2010-04-11T20:07:00.005-06:00

I finally finished Kirsche's birthday quilt. For some reason, this quilt had it in for me. I ended up unpicking 3 bobbins worth of thread that looped up on the back side during quilting, but I finished it this weekend with little hang ups on the binding.
Here's the front of the quilt:

And the back:

Here is the lone picture from her 7th birthday. I swear there were more photos on my camera...maybe a gremlin?

On the Bandwagon

2010-03-26T10:33:00.003-06:00

Okay, okay. I have heard everyone out there raving about Glee. I haven't had a chance to watch it during the regular times on television, so I finally decided to put it in my Netflix queue. Netflix told me I would have a "really long wait" for disc 1 of season 1, but it arrived yesterday. After the little people were put to bed I watched the first three episodes and LOVED it!! The music is fun and, even though the show brings back horrific memories of trying to navigate high school, I really enjoyed it and can't wait for disc 2 to arrive.

The Next Girls' Retreat

2010-02-08T14:11:00.002-07:00

Last summer it was George Strait (no. 1 on the bucket list!). This summer it's Tim McGraw. This time around it will be easier to manage since the concert is in Boise and I will be the only one who has to travel... unless Mom and sister, Debbie, decides to join us this time around. Can't wait! It's good to have something to look forward to.

What I Want to Try...

2009-11-06T10:38:00.002-07:00

I would love to try ThIs... if I had the TiMe, not to mention the KiTcHeN set-up. I have a longing to just cook. Is it the time of year? I know it's not nesting, but this is my desire.

Wide World of Sports

2009-10-14T11:08:00.003-06:00

Well, we couldn't hold off any longer. Ethan is now enrolled in wrestling, the first sports activity any of the kids have participated in. I think it will be good for him to learn something new with the discipline, not to mention the physical activity, that goes along with it.

You Know Your Child Needs a Pet When...

2009-09-24T08:57:00.002-06:00

This weekend the kids and I stopped by the home of some friends. They have a retriever who is laid back and LOVED the attention Braelyn lavished on her. After we left their home, Braelyn informed me that she was getting a Dalmation. "Oh, really," I said. " And what is your Dalmation going to be called?" Without skipping a beat, she answered in the exasperated voice that only a three-year-old can do, "Blue Rosie." I then proceeded to quiz her about who would feed Blue Rosie. "I will," was the reply. I then asked the big question, "Who is going to take care of Blue Rosie's poop?" Again, the exasperated voice answered, "I will. I will flush the toilet for her when she's done." How do you follow that one?

The Kids

2009-08-27T07:04:00.004-06:00

Here are some recent pics of the kids. Ethan is getting so big - 4th grade this year. Kirsche is still girly-girl through and through. Braelyn chose the beenie hat at the farmers market a couple of weeks ago and really wears it. I didn't think she would. The girls got their hair fixed at a salon for the "Princess Tea Party" at the Snake River Roaring Youth Jam. (We didn't make it to the party, but the girls were thrilled to be dressed up.)

Braelyn's Dress

2009-08-27T07:00:00.002-06:00

I finally finished Braelyn's dress. I picked up the fabric and pattern from The Quilt Shoppe in Rigby. I'm really happy with how it turned out - especially after picking and redoing the shirring twice!

So Sweet...

2009-08-20T13:37:00.002-06:00

I dug up this photo of Ethan and Kirsche at my sister, Lisa's wedding from nearly 2 years ago. It makes me smile to see them holding hands. There was a point in the procession where they had to go down a few steps and Ethan assisted Kirsche with her dress to make sure she didn't step on it and trip. Love it!

Pure George (with a little Blake and Julianne)

2009-08-04T06:39:00.008-06:00

Becky, Lisa and I made it last month to SLC for George Strait.
Here I am waiting ever so patiently for the concert to start.

Julianne Hough was surprisingly good. She has such a big voice packed into that small little body. Blake Shelton followed Julianne. Sorry, I didn't take pictures of Julianne.

Finally...look how close we were!

Some Confusion...

2009-06-15T16:14:00.003-06:00

Kirsche had to give a talk this Sunday on faith and prayer. I found a story about President David O. McKay when he was a boy to tell during her talk. On Saturday evening, I was going over her talk with her and when I told her about President McKay's story she looked at me in a quizzical manner and said "President McKay? Wasn't he against Barack Obama in the election?" It took me a minute to understand that she was referring to John McCain. I didn't realize she paid that much attention to the media! I then proceeded to explain to her the difference between President McKay and Senator McCain.

Mom Mama Mommy Mother

2009-05-10T18:30:00.002-06:00

I had a great Mother's Day with gifts, hugs and kisses from the three best kids and husband ever, but my thoughts this weekend have been on my own mother, Paula, and the things that I have learned from her. I don't know why, but as I grow older, I see more and more wisdom in the things she taught me, maybe not with words, but definately by example.
To be concise, I have listed the things that stand out to me most about my mom:
1. She's not terribly outspoken, but when she speaks her mind it's eloquent, logical and pure testimony.
2. When she did speak up against something or someone, it always turned out to be right.
3. She is the hardest worker I can think of - in the home or out.
4. Rare is the occasion that I can remember Mom uttering a complaint.
5. Stoic comes to mind when I think of Mom. Not that she has had a great deal of trials and adversity in her life to make her stoic, but she has weathered unpleasant situations with dignity that I would have moaned and groaned my way through.
6. She may just be starting to realize it, but her love of sewing is starting to awaken in me. I hunger for her talent to create beautiful things while sitting at the sewing table.
Mom, I love you and your great example in life! I hope your day was great!

What I've Been Up To...

2009-04-12T18:42:00.011-06:00

Gosh, has it really been over a month since I last posted? Well, I have a lot to update on what's been going on lately. Yes, these adorable little boxes are my kids teacher gift from Valentine's Day (I know, that was two months ago!) I had so much fun making and filling these little cuties with treats.

This is my first quilt - actually it's my first quilted quilt, as opposed to a tied quilt. It was so much fun that I have been gathering cute material from my new favorite fabric store in anticipation of quilting some more. I do have some in the works, but it's slow going with kids, work and life moving at the speed of light.

I have also started putting scrap fabric to good use. I made a girl's burp cloth and soft square with some ribbon taggies for a friend of my mom's. The little boy's set on the right doesn't have a home - yet. I know lots of women who are expecting this fall!

Sorry, this pic is a little out of focus. I made Braelyn and Kirsche each a quick little springtime dress out of pre-smocked fabric (amazing invention!). Braelyn's has pink and purple ladybugs on it and Kirsche's is black with red cherries. For some reason I can't catch Kirsche with her dress on to snap a fast picture.

Organizing has also been near the top of my list. My ribbons went from this above . . .

to this. I inserted two 5/16 inch dowels into a wooden base and presto, a ribbon spool holder that is so much more economical than the fancy ones at the craft store for purchase.

This is the wedding gift that I will be putting in the mail tomorrow for my friend, Jen, who just got married. Post is their last name and the letters come from my sisters, Tara and Becky, business, Love Letters Photography. I think it looks amazing! I hope Jen and Ashley do, too. (Sorry, Jen, if you see this before it arrives!)

Watch Out...Here It Comes

2009-03-12T11:44:00.002-06:00

Okay, I apologize ahead of this posting because I need to vent a bit.

I, in good faith, subscribed to a publication that claims to support working mothers with their juggle and work/life balancing acts, etc. I need support and ideas and suggestions and all the help I can get! But, I must admit that I am thoroughly disappointed. It seems, from reading the articles in issue after issue of this magazine, that the majority of working mothers have a) a nanny at home watching the kids, caring for the house; or b) a husband who works from home or stays at home while his wife has a high-powered career that rakes in the dough for both of them. Is this the norm? It can't be the majority of real life scenarios, could it? How about some articles on how to manage the schlepping of kids from school to daycare to scouts to home on your lunch hour while taking calls on your cell phone from you boss who needs documents brought down to the courthouse and flights rebooked and calls/emails returned all the while trying to inventory your freezer at home to determine what can be thawed, cooked and eaten before the home teachers come at 6:30? I think I need a vacation.

Truly Great Friends

2009-02-12T16:36:00.002-07:00

Over the last several months I have been spending a lot of time thinking about friends - my friends, in particular. I have truly been blessed in that area. Recently I reconnected with my childhood best friend, Jen, who now lives in Florida. It has been so nice to re-enter each other's lives after a long absence. In fact, one of my best birthday presents this year was a long telephone call from her!

Also in the forefront of my thoughts lately have been my best friends from jr. high and high school. These girls are truly amazing and I am so glad that we still continue on in our friendships! Yesterday, as I sat with Hilary and Jennifer at Cheryl's mom's funeral, I thought back over the last few years with different trials that each of my friends have had to face - Jennifer's sick baby boy, Hunter and her subsequent health and adoption issues; Hilary and her car accident; the loss of Cheryl's dad last year (how I used to wish he were my own dad growing up!) and now her mother; Molly's motorcycle accident; Heather's son Quincy and their kidney surgeries, etc.

As I sat there in the funeral, I realized several things: 1) even though I am not the greatest at keeping up with communications with my friends like I should, in the event that I ever need my friends or their support, whether in Arizona, Florida or across town, they will be there for me, no matter what; 2) these are individuals, sisters really, who have helped shape who I am today. I seek their examples in living and admire who they all are; 3) I truly love each of you, my friends!

No. 1 Fan, Seriously!

2009-02-01T20:01:00.005-07:00

When Everett and I were first married, I told him that there were only 2 concerts that I would die to attend - Vince Gill and George Strait. I saw Vince in Spokane in Spring of '96, I think, but George Strait doesn't tour very close to Idaho Falls so I haven't had the opportunity to see him YET. I heard George is coming to SLC in July so I called Lisa and Becky and we made arrangements with my other sisters for a girls' weekend in Utah. Lisa, Becky and I are going to see George at the Usana Amphitheater. We got great seats even though the tickets are going fast. It's a splurge, but hey, what can I say? It's George Strait, after all.

What...Tagged!?!?

2009-01-13T14:17:00.002-07:00

Yikes, I thought I might escape from this, but I've been tagged. I am supposed to list my three favorite indulgences and then tag other individuals. For those of you tagged, after listing your items, please list the instructions and feel free to tag others!

3. (I'll count backwards for more effect) Lately it's been such an indulgence to get out of the house by myself and browse through Porter's Crafts' quilting fabric. I love the patterns/prints people put together and daydream that maybe one day I can put together a beautiful quilt pattern of my own design.

2. Having all of my family, i.e. parents, sisters, brother, nephews, kids, brothers-in-law, all together for family dinners. It is so gratifying to have everyone in one place enjoying good food, good company and realizing after all these years that we really do like one another, despite what my mom and dad probably thought while we were growing up!

1. Harry & David's chocolate covered Bing cherries! Nothing more to say there. (If you ever need to bribe me....)

Heather, Michelle, Lisa, Sky, Julie, YOU'VE BEEN TAGGED!

All I Want for Christmas Is...

2008-12-23T12:22:00.002-07:00

a Kindle! I am totally fascinated with these amazing little gizmos and if they weren't so expensive, let alone backordered until next year, I think I might have purchased a little gift for myself. I've dropped a few hints to Everett since both my birthday and our anniversary are coming up.

On another note, the other day I was picking Kirsche up from school and on the drive I was inquiring as to what she wanted Santa to bring her for Christmas. Our conversation went like this:

Mom: What do you want Santa to bring you for Christmas this year?
Kirsche: An American Girl doll.
M: Maybe an American Girl doll is a little too expensive for Santa this year.
K: Well, I really don't care what I get from Santa this year ... (at this point I'm getting ready to praise her for being more grateful of what she actually receives, but wait - here comes the curve ball) ... I don't care if I get a Molly or a Kit or a Sophie from Santa as long as it's an American Girl.

I think I've still got a long way to go on figuring out kids!

Beauty of the Season

2008-12-19T03:46:00.003-07:00

I love living in an area that has 4 distinct seasons, albeit that Autumn is usually about 2 weeks long here. I think it reminds us how beautiful our world is all times of the year. I apologize that you can't really see the full scale beauty of the frost on my window, but it was breathtaking. Happy Holidays!

A Few Projects

2008-12-19T03:37:00.005-07:00

To celebrate the 50th day of school on November 5th, Kirsche's kindergarten had a 1950s themed party. I whipped up this poodle skirt. While I was purchasing the materials to make the skirt on October 30th, I had two different ladies comment that I was a little late to be making Halloween costumes. I just smiled and nodded.

My sister, Lisa, also celebrated a birthday on November 21st. This is the birthday card I made for her. I think it turned out really cute.

I have decided to make homemade goodies for friends and neighbors. Ethan is dipping fondant-covered cherries in chocolate. I think I will follow up with coconut balls, too.

Behind.....Who Me?

2008-12-19T03:18:00.006-07:00

Okay, so it's been awhile since I posted (quite awhile, I know!) so here are the belated birthday highlight of November.

Happy Birthday to Ethan and Braelyn! Ethan is now 9 and Braelyn is 3. With something like 11 or 12 birthdays in November between my family and Everett's, it has been a very hectic month, but happy, happy birthday my Sweeties!

Ethan did not want a traditional cake and requested a bundt this year. It was pretty delicious. He received a pair of fishing waders and a Shel Silverstein book.

Braelyn's cake choice was Red Velvet which we made into cupcakes and everyone helped decorate.
Braelyn received a Hannah Montana microphone and a Sunday dress.

Baby Isaiah Has Arrived

2008-11-08T11:52:00.003-07:00

My sister Tara finally had Isaiah Landry Carlson on Election Day, November 4th. He was 7 lbs, 11 oz and 20 1/2 inches, I believe. Mom, Dad and Baby are all doing well.

Halloween Has Come and Gone

2008-11-08T11:40:00.005-07:00

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays, probably because it is the kick-off to six months worth of Candy Holidays. Nearly every holiday from Halloween through Easter has great candy associated with it! Ethan was Anakin Skywalker, Braelyn was our version of Tinkerbell and Kirsche was Tinkerbell's purple outfitted friend. The girls' costumes were super easy to make - tulle tutus and store-bought wings. Even I got into the Halloween spirit and dressed up like a witch.

First Tooth

2008-11-08T11:36:00.003-07:00

Kirsche lost her first tooth shortly before Halloween (I know I'm way behind in catching up on the family events). The tooth fairy left her a dollar bill for pulling out her own tooth, but somehow there ended up being about $1.75 under her pillow. I think a certain big brother was trying to help the tooth fairy! Two days ago she lost her second tooth right next to the first!

My New Favorite Pasttimes

2008-10-28T20:03:00.002-06:00

With the exception of skimming the Albertson's circular that comes in every Wednesday's newspaper to see if there is a great 10 for $10 sale, I'm not ususally too concerned with coupon-clipping...until now. I found this great site that lets you print coupons at home. If the coupon is really great, you can print multiples. I have a few of these sites that I have been perusing at my leisure and I am hooked.

Another great internet company that Tara, my sister, introduced me to is E-mealz.com. You pay $1.25 per week and you get to download 7 days worth of dinners - ingredients, instructions and shopping list included! After a couple of months you have a great selection of easy family meals to choose from. Great idea and worth the money!

The Girls

2008-10-13T21:11:00.002-06:00

Here are a few updated pictures of the girls. Kirsche, like Ethan, doesn't seem to want to smile nicely for the camera. She likes the silly faces. I took this pic of Braelyn at my sister Tara's baby shower. Tara's mother-in-law, Joanie, made yummy bbq hot dogs with cole slaw. Braelyn thought they were fantastic! By the way, a big shout out to Joanie for putting on a fabulous shower! Great job! We can't wait for Baby Isaiah to arrive.

Dilemma...

2008-10-13T21:07:00.003-06:00

I repainted our terra cotta dining room with white walls and dark espresso brown trim. The problem I have is that I can't decide whether to paint the interior of the hutch dark or light. I definately do not want to leave it the way is currently is. What do you think?

Green Eggs and Ham

2008-10-13T21:03:00.002-06:00

Do you like them Sam I am? Our Araucana chicken has finally started laying her beautiful greenish blue eggs.

Little Chicken is also laying so we are now up to about 3 eggs a day.

Yes, It's Me

2008-09-18T20:52:00.006-06:00

Okay, okay. I've been getting some complaints that there are no pictures of me on my blog. I can't help that I am always the one wielding the camera (hee hee). Well, here you go! This is me with Braelyn.

I'll Never Look at Diapers the Same...

2008-09-18T20:52:00.003-06:00

Yeah, so I really should be doing more housework and paying more attention to the kids, but I was really excited to attempt to make a diaper cake for my sister Tara's baby shower (please, Tara, no peeking - it's supposed to be a surprise!) that I put off some chores last Saturday to play with nappies. It turned out really cute and it was super easy. The diapers are rolled and all held together with rubber bands!

School is Finally Here

2008-08-29T22:15:00.002-06:00

The first day of school. It brought me lots of anxiety thinking about how to get everyone to where they needed to be and home again, but things have settled down. Braelyn felt left out, so she got to wear her backpack along with her brother and sister. Kirsche is in all-day kindergarten and loves it. Ethan is a 3rd grader in Mrs. Wheeler's class and doing great. Part of me hopes this year will go by fast, and part of me wants it to stay this way forever.

A Day at Blacktail

2008-08-29T22:10:00.002-06:00

Just before school started, the office had a BBQ at Blacktail boat dock on Ririe Reservoir. Everett was working, of course. (I promise, I really do have a husband!!) The kids and I waded in the water a bit after dinner. It was a great evening and a good chance to socialize with those I work with without the usual hustle and bustle of work.

Kirsche enjoying the water.

Water baby

2008-08-29T22:07:00.003-06:00

Kirsche was the only one to take swimming lessons this summer due to travel arrangements, etc. The highlight of the lesson is all the kids jump off the diving board on the last day. Last year Kirsche jumped right in, but this year she knew what to expect and froze at the end of the board, so a lifeguard "assisted" her by tossing her in.

The Best Thing About the Dairy - Ice Cream!

2008-08-29T22:03:00.003-06:00

We couldn't leave the dairy without sampling the wares! Huckleberry and vanilla were the hot choices. Notice Kirsche's face is a dead giveaway that she is very upset about the dairy's smell. When I asked her what she would do if we lived and worked on a farm, she grunted at me and rolled her eyes. I wonder if this is a sign of things to come...

Little Pig, Little Pig

2008-08-29T21:56:00.006-06:00

Reed's Dairy has some pigs. This is about half of the litter!

This little guy was so cute! He would break away from the litter and come to the fence to chew on Ethan's fingers, then scurry back to the safety of his litter. He was definately more brave than his brothers and sisters who wouldn't venture too far from mom.

I thought Kirsche, who loves pigs, would be the first one to step up and pet the little runt the farmer caught for us, but she just couldn't get past the smell. Believe it or not, the pigs smelled a lot better than the cows!

Reed's Dairy Family Day

2008-08-29T21:47:00.003-06:00

I took the kids to Reed's Dairy for Family Day August 9th. Braelyn immediately charged up to a large milk cow and attempted to pet her belly! No fear in the girl at all! It was such a fun afternoon.

The kids and I enjoyed the horse-drawn carriage tour of the dairy - all except the fragrance!

Jerry's in town

2008-07-28T21:53:00.002-06:00

Everett's brother, Jerry was in town this weekend and stopped by with his daughter, Lauren, to spend Friday with us. We took Subway sandwiches up to Heise to check on the huckleberries. Needless to say, this year doesn't look very promising for huckleberry harvest. Afterward, Jerry and the kids had tickle wars. My kids absolutely love Uncle Jerry.

Pioneer Day

2008-07-28T21:48:00.004-06:00

For those of you who have never happened to be in Utah or Idaho in late July, there is truly a holiday that occurs here that other parts of the country may not be aware of - Pioneer Day, July 24th. Our stake had a big dinner with hot dogs, scones (fry bread), snow cones and huge crowds. Not too many people dressed in period dress, but here we are enjoying the festivities, despite the look on everyone's face.

Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries...

2008-07-28T21:40:00.002-06:00

I took Thursday and Friday off last week and thought I would get so much done around the house on my 4-day weekend. Wrong! My mistake was picking cherries from our one little, seven-foot tall sour cherry tree. The kids and I picked 4 large bowls full of cherries with many more still on the tree. When we were done, I'd bet the tree grew another 3 feet from the branches being weighed down with all that fruit! Just kidding. I ended up spending the rest of the day and most of Saturday evening cleaning, pitting and cooking cherries. I made freezer jam and stewed cherries with amaretto that is heavenly over vanilla ice cream!

Kirsche's Big Day

2008-07-28T21:32:00.002-06:00

Kirsche has been asking for quite some time to have long, curly hair. I have been trying to get it to grow out, but it's at an in-between stage that is hard to deal with, so I took her to Hilary's Career Beauty College to get a perm. Hilary and crew were so patient and great with Kirsche, even when Kirsche freaked out when the solution went onto her hair. Hilary even agreed to pierce Kirsche's ears even though it isn't a service they offer anymore. It was a little traumatic when the earring got stuck twice on the second ear, but Kirsche was a trooper (after the hysterics!) Hilary may not let us in the door after that experience, but the result was fabulous! Thanks to Hilary, Ms. Bingham, Britnee and everyone else!

Where have I been?

2008-07-28T21:27:00.002-06:00

I know it's been a while since I blogged, so I am going to try to catch everyone up on the last few weeks in a shotgun blast. Our 4th of July was great - we pretty much stayed home and chilled since Everett had to work all day : ( All of my high school friends were in town for the holiday and we got together with our families at McCowin Park for dinner. It's so great to have such wonderful friends and that night reminded me how truly special each one of them is to me. Thanks, girls. I love ya all!

Home Again

2008-06-20T20:23:00.002-06:00

Gosh, what a slacker I've been when it comes to posting! I've been really busy and sick with a sinus infection, so that's my story and I'm sticking to it : ) I'm now back from Cheyenne and the WTLA convention. It was a pretty good convention and I learned alot, but it's nice to be back with Everett and the kids. Also, I'm not one to sleep well when I'm not in my own bed.

Army Wives Season 2!

2008-06-08T19:42:00.002-06:00

Yay! Tonight is the night. Army Wives Season 2 premiere is on in about 15 minutes. I can't believe how hard I fell for this show. It's such a tribute to the military spouses who have the task of being married to one of America's soldiers. It's refreshing to have a show out that shows a supportive side to the Presidency in that these soldiers have chosen to protect, serve and defend our country and it's time that the rest of America took notice rather than protest. Sorry for the soapbox. If you've missed any of Season 1, I've included a link below to get you where you need to be.
http://www.mylifetime.com/on-tv/shows/army-wives/army-wives-video

Spring is Here!

2008-06-08T19:30:00.004-06:00

Look closely. On the right we have pears that are starting to grow in our backyard. I think Spring has finally arrived here in Idaho. I bet you can't guess what the plant to the right is. Edamame! Yep, good old soy beans. They are so delicious and good for you. We have the usual tomatoes, peas and lettuce growing along with raspberries, asparagus, onions and shallots to name a few. It's the pears that really signify that winter is over (knock on wood) and that this season is looking promising for production.

2008-05-28T08:52:00.002-06:00

Whew! I thought I would get a chance to rest and relax this Memorial Day weekend, but I thought wrong. We, the litigation team at the office, have been gearing up for a huge wrongful death trial that started yesterday, so I worked a little on Saturday and Monday, Memorial Day, prepping for this trial. I can't believe that it is finally at trial! I have worked on this case since it came in, through an Idaho Supreme Court appeal and back to District Court for trial. I am so excited and can't wait to see the outcome!

2008-05-19T21:36:00.002-06:00

Kirsche came home from Julie's today favoring her left wrist. She said she fell off the slide this afternoon. She whimpered about it so much through dinner that I went ahead and had it checked at the Urgent Care. She was really brave when they took her by herself to the X-ray room. It's not broken (thank goodness!), only sprained and it will probably be tender for a few days according to the doctor. What little surprise in life is waiting for us around the corner?

Fair Feathered Friends

2008-05-13T20:56:00.002-06:00

Our latest endeavor in the animal world...chickens. We have Big Chicken (creative, I know) who was joined by these three simply known as Ethan's Chicken, Braelyn's Chicken and Kirsche's Chicken. These little guys have been a good experience for the kids in teaching them to care for God's creatures. Unfortunately, my kids have also learned about life, death and grief of late when we lost Kirsche's Chicken a few nights ago. Ethan tenderheartedly decorated her grave out back. I hope that in some way these experiences with farm animals will help them deal with life as it inevitably will happen many more times.

Life is a Highway!

2008-05-06T20:13:00.006-06:00

Aiden and Ross kicked up their heels with Braelyn Saturday night to the theme song of Disney's movie Cars. They spent the evening with us while Mom and Dad had date night with Aunt Tara and Uncle Nick. The boys were so fun and watching the kids had fun getting to know their cousins.

We also exhausted the kids with the bubble machine! There was just the right amount of wind (is there such a thing in Idaho?!?!) and clouds of bubbles hovered around the backyard. The night ended with each of the twins crashing on my lap and falling dead asleep while Braelyn and Kirsche patted them on the back. I couldn't have asked for a more enjoyable evening.

It's Friday

2008-05-02T08:03:00.002-06:00

Fridays are supposed to be great, but I think this one's off to a bad start. My curling iron literally disintegrated in my hands this morning. I had to make do with a flat iron and round brush. I didn't fare too badly, though, but a curling iron was not on my list of pending purchases.

There is good news, though. My sisters Lisa and Becky are coming home for the weekend! Yay! The both live in Boise, roughly 4 hours away. Lisa and Shaun don't have any kids yet, but Becky and Cameron have two darling 18 month old tow-heads. The boys are going to stay with us while Mom and Dad go to dinner with Tara and Nick, my other sister and her husband. My kids want to know if the boys will sleep over? Probably not this time.

A new venture...

2008-04-29T19:09:00.003-06:00

I've heard it said that thoughts become more concrete when they are written and lately, mainly due to the normal chaos that is motherhood/wifehood/working woman/life in general, my thoughts have been jumbled and abstract - thus, I am experimenting with the 21st century's version of journaling. Plus, I have scrapbook issues. I know it is a huge trend (and many people that I know but won't name any names would be appalled with my aversion to it) but it's so time consuming and expensive! So, here is my family's take on life!

These are my kids - Ethan, Kirsche and Braelyn. It still amazes me how unique each of their personalities are. Ethan is a typical oldest sibling, eager to help and to play parent pro tem at every opportunity. Kirsche (pronounced "Keersha") is highly dramatic and goes from Zero to Sixty on the mood scale in about 2.4 seconds. She is also very much the Princess in our home. Braelyn is the snuggly, smoochy, giggly child and is my only blue-eyed baby.