LOONEY TOONS

GOING PRIVATE!

2010-11-07T21:28:00.000-08:00

I have had a few "issues" and have decided to go private as of

Monday, Nov. 8th

I have this blog to express MY opinions, MY thoughts and MY ideas.

I don't intend for anyone to be offended or hurt. But I don't intend for me to have to hold my tongue about my religion, my family or my wants/needs/desires. So in order to not hurt anyone in my process . . .

It's time to go private!

I know there are some of you who read

and I LOVE all your comments and thoughts.

PLEASE ask for an invite!!

I love reading about all of you too!

. . . .whirlwind . . . WARNING! Loooong post!

2010-11-07T21:19:00.000-08:00

The past few months have been cRaZY!!

My emotions have been up and down.

My soul tormented with questions..

My heart broken and repaired numerous times.

My mind wild with questions and answers.

Where to start? First, Geoff didn't get the job in Colorado. Is it a lost hope? No. They could hire him . . . sometime. But for now it's not happening. They hired a part-time, 'fresh out of college' kid for less money. We understand, in this economy, but we were very heart broken! Our faith was shaken a bit but we know the Lord must have something else in store for us. On the other hand, Geoff is back at the plant (only a 3 mile commute to work) again, which in turn saves us gas. And within the first 2 weeks back, he's clocked over 60 hours overtime. With a company that has told employees for the past year "NO OVERTIME!" numerous times - we are very grateful and feel very blessed. Poor guy has been on 12 hour shifts for the past month and extremely tired but he is a hard-working, amazing man who loves his family enough to sacrifice in order to provide for his family. We are hoping with this overtime, that the bills and Christmas will be an easier load this year. He's anxious to have Thanksgiving off and be back on normal hours.

BUT . . . guess what? We're moving! We were in hopes it would be to Colorado but instead it will be just a couple of miles north. We have been renting the home we're in for 4 years. We love the ward, the neighborhood and the people that surround us (well, most of them) and it's been a difficult decision but there are so many things that we must consider. First is our income vs debt in this home! It's ridiculous what they are charging for this "area". We knew it going into it, but we were desperate to get out of the situation we were in (that's a whole other story) and we needed to move our family to place where we'd feel safe and secure. This opportunity opened and we are grateful for the time we have been here. We've prayed and fasted and prayed and fasted some more about this and we know it's right for our family at this time but can I tell you how hard it is? I'm so sad to 'pull' my kids from the friends they thought they'd have forever. We had planned to rent for 2 years and then buy the house. But the economy hit and the owners aren't in a position to sell and we are 'stuck' renting a house that has repairs I'm not wiling to pay for and they can't or won't do for us. So, it's time to bail out and find a new home. Everything seemed to fall into place with our new home. A childhood friend found me on FB and we had lunch a few times in the spring and kept up with each other through emails, posts, etc. One morning I saw on her FB status that her husband got a job in Oregon and they were moving. She also mentioned that she was needing to rent her home. I emailed her about the exciting but sad news that he got a job (that's always great) but that she was leaving after we just reconnected again. We planned to meet and catch up. I asked her about her house and she gave me a few details and invited me over to look. A few days later I went over to visit and see the house. I loved it but there were some concerns. Nothing big but my girls have had separate rooms for 5 years and she only had 3 bedrooms. I looked at the rest and the floorplan was great for my teaching, it has a basement which will be nice for the hot summers, and I loved how open the floorplan was. I let her show me around and then I waited. She told me what they were thinking for rent and I about committed to it then without asking Geoff! It was just what our budget needed and I was ready to do anything to get into it! I wanted so badly to leave right then and call Geoff and tell him all about it but I needed to stay and visit. :) Don't you hate when your excitement outweighs your plans for the day?? LOL

Needless to say, Geoff was much more level headed and the first thing he asked before I could even tell him about the house, was how many bedrooms. Grrr! Why does he always ruin it for me? I avoided and avoided it until he finally stopped me and asked me again. I told him and he immediately answered no. I pleaded with him to just take some time and think about it. We really needed to get out from under the debt this home we're in and this might be the answer. He shook his head but agreed. I used every waking moment over the next few days to figure out 'my side of the case'. I measured rooms, I measured beds, I wrote out our income/debt, I wrote pros/cons. You name it! I just knew the Lord didn't us to buy a home in Arizona right now, and He didn't want us in Colorado just yet but He needed us in this home and He put it in our path at just the right time! Geoff finally agreed to go see the house and he liked it . . . a lot! He agreed, if we could get our girls to share - it would be perfect. We presented the idea to the kids. We always include them in decisions and this one was no different. It's always with the understanding that Mom/Dad have the final say but we want their input. We hope it's helping them to learn how to make decisions and weigh the options. There were tears, there were upset girls but they agreed to pray about it and join the family fast about it. We were to go see it that Sunday evening. To make this long story just a tad shorter - we are going to move there! The girls are ok to share and actually excited to have a new room to design. They kids love the basement and the big backyard that has NO pool. Whodathunk!? They don't like having a pool. They want a big grassy backyard with a trampoline. LOVE IT! That I can give them! We will move the week between Christmas and New Years and I'm anxious to start new and fresh! It's only 2.3 miles door to door and yet it's a new ward and stake.

Here's to new beginnings!!

Blog Stalking!!

2010-10-10T08:59:00.000-07:00

Ok - with life feeling a little 'blue' and in honor of the cooler weather, I've been looking at crafting/home decor blogs. It takes over my free time. I surf and surf and surf . . .

Be careful . . . it's addicting!! But check out some of the links on the side! Amazing and FUN stuff!!

Dear Santa - -

2010-09-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

The past few weeks I've been completely and utterly humbled! I've learned humility, patience, and many other valuable life lessons. Some days have been emotional, others frustrating, others joyful and others stressful. But all in all, I'm learning and growing and completely satisfied.

Today was a great day - even with my migraine. I cancelled lessons because I feared the piano and singing just would aggravate it. I rarely ever cancel my lessons, simply because it means I have to make the lessons up at some point - so what's the point? But today I needed it. I napped, ignored my chores, went to lunch with friends and napped again. After dinner was over, my sweet Jon-boy did the dishes, Kylee-doll helped finish up the table decor for YW's on Wednesday, Maddi-boo helped pick up the front room and Dakota-stud picked up the laundry room and swept the kitchen. Even though I really didn't do much, a lot still got done and I appreciate the help from my family! Even my sweetie, Geoff, brought me a drink. It's now 10:30pm and the kids are in bed, the dishwasher is running, the floors are swept and mopped and the washer has a load going. Geoff is gone to work til morning, so I will work on the computer (or play) til I'm tired and the laundry is ready for the dryer.

While I wait I thought I might write my letter to Santa tonight.

My sweet little Maddisen (9 years old) handed me an envelope today. It was addressed to Santa and she asked me to drop it in the mail tomorrow when I was out running my errands. I told her I'd be happy to but she was early this year, to which she replied, "Well, it's gives him time to save some money since everyone has money problems right now."

My sweet, sweet Maddi - if only you knew!

With all the troubles in the world these days, I thought my letter this year would be less selfish and so here's what I wish for, in simple words, without getting too deep . . .

1 - The standard wish for most - Peace on Earth.

Will we ever fulfill the prophecy in the bible of the lion to lie with the lamb? Sometimes I wonder why we all just can't get along. I appreciate the differences with people and think that's what makes our friendship/relationship so intriguing, but there is no need to pull a gun on each other.

2 - A happy family

I want nothing more than the have my family all get along for one FULL day. Some days it seems almost possible and then the dream is killed by bedtime. Some mornings we don't even make it the first hour without someone complaining about something.

3 - A clean house

Now don't get me wrong - I've been much better about keeping up on this since my stint from theatre but even with all the work I do, it never fails that I have more to do before they go to bed. I know one day it will go away with the kids and I'll miss it but doing dishes and laundry seem like deja vu every day!

4 - To have no enemy

Why can't we all get along? Just like #1 and I will work to do my part. No gossiping, no judging, no assuming. I will do my part - do you think Santa could help those who oppose me?

5 - Happiness!!

I'd love to keep a smile as often as possible. Wives tale says that it takes less muscles in the face to smile. If this is true, I must remember this if I don't want to look too old too fast. I want to be able to find the good or positive in even my trials and troubles.

These are my top 5

- - -

What are you going to ask Santa for???

YAWN

2010-09-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

I've never claimed to be an early to bed/early to rise kind of person. But I had set some goals and one of them was to be up every morning making a hot breakfast for my kids. Well, Geoff works nights once a month for 7 days straight. I don't sleep well when he's gone - I hear every sound, I worry about the kids and I just find it's easier to do things when he's gone. So, it is a productive time of the month - I work on the computer for my calling, I sweep and mop my kitchen (which I hate to do during the day because I use a steam mop and it makes it warm in the room), I organize cupboards, I dust (who does that?), etc etc etc. I will admit that most of the time I do spend most of the time on the computer. I surf for recipes, make documents for my calling or studio, games (I love word games) or chat with friends (if they are awake like me). And sometimes I call Geoff at work and we talk (thank goodness for unlimited night time minutes), if he's not too busy.

I tell you this because he's been on his nightshift for 2 nights and I'm already dragging during the day! It's starting to wear on me and I haven't been very productive during the day. And this heat isn't helping!! I am worn out before I even get the kids out the door to school. I haven't given up my goal of making sure they have a hot breakfast on school days but I can't guarantee I don't grab a cat nap after they leave.

Here's hoping for me to either get to bed earlier

for this night shift to end soon so I can sleep!

Planting seeds in my garden . . .

2010-09-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

I've been busy getting things ready for a young women's special meeting called Evening in Excellence. I am the Personal Progress leader in my ward and this is an evening to spotlight the girls work. I have been asked to put together a program and the theme is FOREVER BLOOMING: My Garden of Values.

As I started trying to decide where to go with this, I came across an amazing outline online about taking each value and representing it with a flower and comparing them. I loved it! But now the hard part comes - I have to come up with the flowers and how they compare and write it out. They only gave one idea and I didn't like the flower they chose, so I now have to come up with all 8 values, 8 flowers and 8 comparisons. Some might find this overwhelming but I LOVE LOVE LOVE to do this kind of stuff!

It started the weekend my kids were out of town with my parents and I started researching. Geoff and I were home alone. No interruptions. Nothing to do but enjoy the quiet and each other. I'll keep this rated G and just say we had fun but we still had lots of down time. So, I used my time to work on the computer, while Geoff played his computer game. :) Yes, we're geeks!

I'm done now and the presentation is amazing, if I do say so myself. Although, I don't consider it to be only my work - I had lots of inspiration! I wish I could share with you all of the values and flowers but that would take too long. But I have to share something, so here is a taste with one of my favorites -

CHOICE AND ACCOUNTABILITY --- Zinnia

Zinnias are among the most popular of garden flowers. Butterflies are particularly attracted to them. They are also called “youth-and-old-age”.

My life is like garden. Every choice I make is like a seed. I decide what I want grow in my garden. If I plant good choices, I’ll enjoy love, peace, joy and closeness with the Spirit. If I plant bad seeds, I’ll grow unhappiness. Luckily, if I don’t like the plants I’m growing, I can choose to weed by repenting. Seeds and choices are very similar. We choose what to plant, but we can’t decide what will come up --- that was already decided by what we plant. We can choose our actions, be we can’t decide the consequences for those actions. Just like seeds grow up into plants that make even more seeds, my choices have long reaching consequences -- sometimes expanding, other times limiting my future choices. If I learn to make righteous choices, I’ll have great blessings and the opportunity for many other good choices in the future.

Man! That was a hard decision - they are all soooo good! I'm so pleased with how it's all coming together. But I share this for one reason - I feel like this has been written for me! Thus the reason I don't feel like I wrote this alone.

I love the quote we are putting on the handout - - -

All the flowers of all the tomorrows are

in the seeds of today. - Indian Proverb

For some reason this speaks to me. With all the changes I've been making in my life, this just confirms to me that what I'm doing today will "blossom" tomorrow. Kylee had an opportunity to go to a young women's conference this summer and it was entitled "Time to Blossom". The conference was to help each young woman to understand her self-worth, to know that she is a beautiful daughter of God, and to discover her potential to make a difference in the world. Isn't that what we all want? To know that what I'm doing today will make a difference tomorrow? If we plant the seeds today - the flowers will bloom tomorrow!!

Have a great day and plant some seeds!!

Apples or Onions??

2010-09-16T20:38:00.000-07:00

LOOK CLOSELY . . .

CAN YOU TELL WHAT'S REALLY UNDER THE CARMEL?

I'm sure most of you have heard the analogy of carmel treats - one being an onion and one being an apple. You have no idea what's inside until you take a bite. They both look good, they both look tasty. Then you take a bite and WHAM! It's either really good or really bad!

I know it's supposed to be about morality and how it looks ok on the outside, blah, blah, blah . . . . but . . . here's my analogy:

I've had some pretty good apples in life.

But I've also had some pretty strong onions.

But lately, I think I'm getting a carmel apple and after I bite into it - - -

I find a really strong onion!

---------------------------------------------------------------

My recent LIFE ONIONS:

1 - Having a really good day, and then I go check the mail and find yet another bill that's delinquent.

2 - We pray and/or fast about work and feel really confident things are going to be ok and then Geoff gets called to a mandatory meeting where he's told health benefit rates are being raised again (twice in about a year) and that his 401K may be going away and they are looking at 2 week fur-lows! WHAT??

3 - We go yet another day without any word on the job we really need/want in Colorado.

4 - I lose yet another student to scheduling conflicts. Although I should be thrilled they are getting leads in shows and it's rehearsals that are conflicting, the money is nicer.

5 - Yet another kid who's upset they didn't get a birthday party or birthday present or can't take an extracurricular activity because of money or because I have to teach and there is no way to get them to and from.

BUT on the other hand . . .

My apples have been some of the JUICIEST I've had in a looooong time!! I've been enjoying the fun of having more time to myself and family. Here's a list of the fun (yes, I think they are) things I've been working on - -

1 - Making contact with old friends.

This includes drink runs, lunches, FB chats, emails and good ol' phone calls.

2 - Learning to coupon.

I've always been fascinated by saving money and getting lots for a little. So, after connecting with an old friend, I found out she is a master coupon-er. I've been 'trading' Sonic drinks (happy hour, of course) for coupon lessons. I've just been collecting them and learning the trade so far. No savings yet, but I will keep you posted. I'm determined on this one!!

3 - Going to food storage classes and learning to cook healthy, edible stuff with it!

Ok, so I've only gone to one class so far (today) but it was AWESOME! The classes are free and I'm learning what to do with all this wheat, rice and beans I have in my storage and now I can use it and rotate it. Check out her website - FoodWise.com. This woman is a god-send and I'm thankful to have found her. I hope I use what I've learned and become more diverse.

4 - I take time to play the piano . . . for me!!

I play for lessons. I play for church. I play for . . . blah, blah, blah. I LOVE that but I LOVE to play for ME! I was recently given some AMAZING music (arrangements of primary songs and hymns) by my brother. I take the time to play through at least one a day! Lately, after dinner is over and the kids are working on homework, Geoff is either at work or on the computer (depending on his shift) - I will turn off the tv and go in and play. It's so relaxing and I notice a mood change in my home when I do.

5 - I'm trying to find something new everyday. Whether it be a new word, a new friend, a new product, or a new feeling. I am out to make a change in who I am! I will conquer the fear of all these changes and although I get down, and upset and feel like everything I do is a bite into an onion - I will overcome my fears and learn to take leaps and chances and be happy!!

LIFE IS LIKE AN ONION;

YOU PEEL OFF ONE LAYER AT A TIME AND SOMETIMES YOU WEEP.

And I'll add to that:

But sometimes you find an apple and you weep HAPPY tears!!

What are you going to find today - an apple or an onion?

But more importantly - - -

what are you going to do with it and how are you going to handle it?

**UPDATE!**

Had an awesome APPLE day today! Trying really hard to find the sweet apples everyday, because that's really what it's all about!

Sugar Daddy or Little Ol' Lady??? Help Google!

2010-09-12T21:12:00.000-07:00

I've always teased that I need a Sugar Daddy but lately, I've been almost serious! Tonight as I was trying to stretch my dimes into TEN dollars in the budget, I thought maybe I could do a Google search for a little old lady that has extra money to spare. If she knew how hard we try and we still can't seem to make it, maybe she'd be willing to spare a little. I'm not asking for lots. Literally. It's amazing how just 4 digits would help keep my head above water, save me some embarrassing phone calls, and keep me kinda happy. The stress that money brings is just beyond crazy! I have been taught not to tell family secrets but I have to get this off my chest so I can sleep. And I kind of see this as my journal, so . . .

I hate avoiding phone calls - afraid it's bill collectors.

I hate telling my kids "sorry, can't afford that" for even the smallest of items and sometimes necessary things

I hate being so nice and allowing students to pay late, knowing that I will not be able to make my own bills on time

I hate being so accommodating with my students needing time off for shows, that I lose the income while they do

I hate not being able to meet friends for lunch or even just a soda because I don't have a dollar to spare

I hate not having a chance to even go on a date with my husband because money is so tight

I hate. I HATE. I HATE!!

Sometimes I just want to give up!! I can't always rob Peter to pay Paul. I'm beginning to stress over Christmas that's coming. We NEED this new job and we need it NOW!! Why aren't they calling? Why are they dragging their feet?? Come on already! Help us out!!

Ok - I'm done ranting. Well, probably not, but I'm hoping my next post will be HAPPY!! It has to be, right?? So if anyone knows a little old lady (I think that might be better than a Sugar Daddy, don't you?) - pass her my name!

Here's hoping for a money tree to grow in my backyard tomorrow!

My Wonkavator at Ground Zero!

2010-09-10T09:34:00.000-07:00

**DISCLAIMER : This is in NO WAY meant to make light of or poke fun at our remembrance of Sept 11th.**

"An elevator can only go up and down, but the Wonkavator can go sideways, and slantways, and longways, and backways and frontways and squareways and any other ways that you can think of!"

My emotions this week have been on a Wonkavator! ALL OVER THE PLACE! One minute loving my life, one minute hating it. Yet another I feel I'm making the wrong choices and yet another I'm thrilled with way things are going and where they are headed. I know I should be happy with what I've chosen and if not, then I need to make the changes needed. However, I don't think it's because of the choices, but the change. I didn't think change was a big deal to me but because so many things are changing so fast, I'm feeling like I'm standing in mud in a rainstorm - slip sliding and fishtailing as I go. Almost unsure of my ground and if I'm heading in the right direction.

"The term ground zero (sometimes known as surface zero or zero point) is used to describe the point on where an explosion occurs. It is also used in relation to disasters to mark the point of the most severe damage or destruction."

Am I damaged? Did I have an explosion? Not literally . . . but . . . my heart is hurting. Aching if you will. I'm not afraid to cry. I cry A LOT! I cry if I'm happy, if I'm worried, if I'm upset and even if I'm mad. I cry during commercials, music (duh!), when I talk to friends, when I'm alone mopping my floor. I'm just an emotional and very "deep-thoughted" person (is that even a word?) who wears her heart and feelings on my sleeve. And lately my emotions have been very HIGH! I can read a scripture and become overwhelmed with emotion. I can see a friend and just want to hug them and tell them how much I love them. I see my kids giggling and laughing and talking at the kitchen table eating dinner and/or working on homework, helping each other and my eyes well up. I know nothing is particularly 'wrong' with me but I can usually keep my tear ducts in check. Not so lately.

I have a pretty close knit family. My sisters (all 5 of us) and my brother can talk about anything. My favorite thing to do is talk to them - sitting around a table. We tease, we laugh, we do get serious (sometimes) and we share. Lately I've felt a little pulled away or the desire to just lash out and tell to leave me alone. I appreciate their concern and their input about us not moving but they don't see my bank account, they don't see the tears I cry over not being able to make our bills, they don't see the heartache of my husband, who feels he can't provide a decent living for his family, they aren't here when the power goes out because we couldn't pay the bill on time, they don't see the tears from my kids who don't want to go to a birthday party without a gift in hand or can't go to an activity with friends because I don't even have $10 to send with them.

WE HAVE TO MOVE IF A JOB TAKES US THERE!!

Why is that so hard to understand?? Why is that so hard to support?

I love you, too. But families are forever! I can live in a neighboring state and still call, still come home for holidays and since work will pay more, I'll be able to visit. I truly love you but please try to understand.

And another thing:

Why am I doubting my decision to stop doing theatre - PAYING theatre - to be home like the prophet and Bishop have asked? I NEED to be here with my family! I have prayed so very hard and so very long about this. I have cried so many tears, yelled at myself alone in the house, and just slept the afternoon away because of my doubts. The Lord wants me HOME - why doesn't Obama or the economy or society, for that matter?? Why is Satan working so hard to make my choice harder than it should be? Pardon me, but DAMN HIM! Damn him to hell and back! Leave me alone to my sweet husband and children! Let us be happy in our normal sized home but allow us to have power. Allow us to have just a little extra so that we can have smiling kids. We're not asking to be millionaires - just be comfortable. Not feeling like we're wearing shoes that are too tight or have holes in our pockets. LEAVE ME ALONE!!

*DEEP SIGH*

WOW! That felt good! I have plenty to more I could say but why? The doubt is "his" doing, not mine! I'm happy with what I've chosen - I CAN WALK AWAY WITH MY HEAD HELD HIGH!

I CAN DO THIS!

I WILL DO THIS!!

HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE!!

I've suffered enough . . .

2010-09-09T16:19:00.000-07:00

Now do they need to?

Recently, I have suffered for choices I made years ago. I choose, not really by my own doing, to return to work about 10 years ago. Geoff had lost his 2nd job in 2 years and we were stressing financially. He decided to return to school but I knew that I would need to work to make it through . . . especially with 4 kids!

We were blessed by the way work came our way. I found a job teaching at a local performing arts studio almost instantaneously, which in turn helped me to return to teaching full-time very quickly. I had a full studio in no time and started filling my time with lots of students and in turn . . . more money!

One evening I went to see a student in a show. Afterwards I was visiting with new friends and was offered an opportunity to music direct a show. I obliged and that was the start of a fruitful, yet LONG 5 years of shows and students that filled my time, day and night.

I was able to pay bills but eventually I wore down. I had lost so much time and memories with my kids . . . for what? I know, I paid my bills and we survived. But I wonder . . . was it really worth it all??

I gave up so much that I will NEVER get back. And I'm suffering for it . . . or at least I think I am. I am trying to rebuild my relationship with each kid. They are "relearning" what I expect of them, they are adjusting to the fact that I am home, I'm adjusting to the fact that I am home. We have had to adjust all over!

"Do I miss it?" I get asked this a lot. "You are too talented to stay away." Thanks but no thanks. I have suffered by way of emotion and loss of what I cannot get back, that I have to stop and think . . . I've suffered, do they need to as well?

I think the answer is a simple . . . no.

Is it time for resolutions? ? ?

2010-09-09T15:28:00.000-07:00

Well, for me it is!

The start of a new school year is the BEST time for me to start new goals. Schedules are back, the kids are gone during the day for me to accomplish some of them and I'm in a "new mode".

Below are my goals and I share them because I believe responsibility is key to keeping a goal. If I share them, I feel a sense of responsibility to you, as readers and friends, that I must keep them going so I don't disappoint you. (Remember my list of things about myself, where I shared how I don't like to disappoint people and want everyone as a friend.)

1 - GET UP with or before my kids!

In the past I have been so busy with shows and theatre that mornings were a blur for me. I wouldn't wake up at all, leaving my kids to get ready on their own or I would get up only to drive them, in hopes that they got everything done (including their own breakfast) by themselves. I'm 'airing' my dirty laundry here to prove that this is BIG for me.

2 - MAKE a HOT breakfast every school day!

I have usually bought cold cereal, bagels, bread for toast, poptarts, frozen waffles, etc. for my kids to 'make themselves'. Well, since I'm able to be home more now, I will send my kids prepared for the day with a full tummy!

3 - I WILL stay away from theatre!

Don't fret - I will still perform . . . someday. But for now, I must keep my distance, as hard as it is. And truthfully, it's not hard right now. I have NO desire to be there, to leave my family, to sacrifice my TIME anymore.

4 - I WILL limit my teaching hours!

I MUST not teach past 6:15PM every evening and I will keep my Fridays OPEN for whatever I choose. I also inform ALL new students that flexibility is a MUST! I am a MOM FIRST and I will tend to that first. If they are not ok with that - go find another teacher. So far, all have agreed and there have been no complaints.

5 - I WILL drink one glass of water for every glass of Dr. Pepper!

I tease that my Dr. Pepper is my "mormon coffee" but it's gotten out of hand. It's almost like I'm an alcoholic and MUST have it every day. Scrounging for change in order to suffice my craving and need. I will wean myself off of so much!

6 - I WILL keep up on all housework and laundry!

Again, with theatre, it was not always easy! But I am going to do one load of laundry every evening. Making sure it makes it to the dryer before I head to bed and it will be folded and the kids will put it away before they leave for school in the morning. I will give myself the weekends off. :) Dishes will be done after every meal - no matter how tired I am! And I will do one additional chore every day - such as vacuuming, bathrooms, sweep and mop. If I keep up on it at least once a week, the house doesn't get that messy and I should be able to stay on top of it all.

7 - I WILL keep up on my "spiritual needs"!

This includes, but is not limited to, family prayers, scriptures, personal prayers and my calling.

This is it for now. I may add more but I think my "plate is full". I am thrilled to set them and keep to them. Knowing that I will be rewarded with more than just the temporal needs for all of these things.

I LOVE MY LIFE!!

Hang on . . . here we go!!

2010-08-29T20:58:00.000-07:00

The rest of the summer was crazy fun and a whirlwind! It was really a summer for our Kylee. She had LOTS going on but our family had fun too! :)

So . . . here we go . . .

We started the summer off by sending our Kylee to a BRAND NEW program - Time to Blossom. An EFY for 11-16 yr old girls only! It's pilot year was here in Arizona at the Mesa Hilton. She had a blast with 250+ girls running around the hotel with amazing speakers and programs. She is ready to do again next year! Check it out if you have a daughter - www.TimetoBlossom.com. They are having 3 next year around the country!

Kylee then headed off to our ward's Journey Retreat for the Young Women. The theme this year was 'Come What May and Love It'.

Then . . . Here she is getting on the bus for Girls Camp! She's a wild one and the new Beehives love having her as their President because she's so fun. She was released just 2 weeks after camp since she's turning 14 yrs old and moving on to MiaMaids.

Here she is with a couple of great gals from the ward. She loved camp, as usual!

The day after she got home from Girls Camp, Kylee got braces. We've been going to the orthodontist for 4 years and when he finally said she was ready, you'd have thought she won the lottery! She was so excited! For now she has an expander on top and lower braces. After the top has moved enough, then they'll add braces on top. She's anxious for that, too!

Here she is in the midst of it all. Happy as can be!! Crazy girl! :)

HERE'S THE FINAL PRODUCT! SHE'S ECSTATIC! We've been expanding and brushing a lot. She's been very good to keep with the rules too. We'll see if she keeps with them. :)

Just 2 days after Kylee's big day, we headed out for a family vacation! In the past we have had a trip here and there and they usually last about 2-3 days and not much more than that. But this summer we went to Colorado for a whole week! We went to Grand Junction first for our niece's baptism. This was for my sister, Mindy's oldest daughter - Carli. We had a blast and enjoyed the fun with family!!

This picture is out of order but it's the Eisenhower Tunnel we drove through between the Dare's and Daugherty's. The kids liked how we drove 'through' the mountain and hearing the history behind it from Dad.

While in Grand Junction we went to the Dinosaur Museum with all the cousins that were there. It was fun to see all the hands-on displays!

We love spending time with cousins! The Dare girls are so much fun and we've missed them since they moved. The kids had a blast at the museum, playing in the retention park outside their house with the "cold" rain and Grandpa's candy cannon, and playing Just Dance! on the wii. We also stopped back by on our drive home to Arizona and enjoyed even more time with them!

Next we drove over the Rocky Mountains to Longmont, just outside of Boulder. We stayed with our dear friends, the Daugherty's for about 4 days. It was absolutely beautiful weather and the kids loved all the rain. We enjoyed the gorgeous scenery. We saw deer walk in the street, even the highway. We saw the buffalo ranch and enjoyed time as a family with no real commitments.

We went to the county fair. I won't bore you with too many pics but we rode rides, ate yummy treats (gotta have a funnel cake) and saw horses, goats and humongus pigs! :)

We ate VERY well while we are there! We just HAD to eat lunch at Noodles. The adults went out to dinner at an old opera house that was revamped into a restaurant called Dickon's. And the rest of the time, Brian cooked for us. Amazing pulled pork tacos, yummy burgers, and tantalizing tubes&twirls (his own recipe). He is quite the chef and the kids really liked watching him cook! Thanks Brian!!

The best part was that I got to spend time with my BEST friend in the whole wide world (well, other than my Geoff)! We laughed and enjoyed spending time with both families for the first time ever! I love you Tawni!

Kylee - 9th grade

Freshman! Where has the time gone?? This is the last year with 9th graders in the junior high schools in Mesa. She is excited to be the "big guy on campus" and to be "making history" as the last 9th grade class at Poston Jr. High. She's excited to add Seminary to her schedule this year!

Jonathan - 7th grade

His first year in junior high! I just can't believe it. He's really grown up in past few weeks. His friendship with Kylee has grown closer too. It's nice to see them get along a lot better. :)

Dakota - 6th grade

Big man on campus! He's enjoying being the "oldest" in the school. He's a ladies man and has quite a few girls trying to be "his". We are working to keep him single. LOL!!

Maddisen - 4th grade

I can't believe my BABY is so grown up! She is really enjoying school and LOVES to read!

Kylee's 14th birthday! No party this year - she had almost 30 girls at our house for a swimming/homemade pizza party last year. But she got breakfast of french toast with buttermilk syrup, lunch from Ned's Krazy Sub and LOTS of fun things from friends! Spoiled with friends and fun! Can't believe how fast you are growing my Kylee-doll! We love you!!

Oh - just a bit of fun: On Friday following her birthday, she went to seminary to find a a sub and it was her grandpa! My Dad is an institute teacher and was asked to sub for her school. FUN!

Well, that's it for now. I'll try to be better about keeping up! Have a great week!!

20 Random Things about Jenn

2010-07-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

Need some fun reading (well, I enjoyed writing it)? Here it goes:

1. I'm divorced. Just when I think everyone knows this, someone whom I've known for a while says they didn't know. I was married VERY young at 19 yrs and divorced by 21 1/2 yrs. I remarried 2 years later to my true love.

2. I HATE PEAS! I can't stand them from a can, frozen or fresh. They just make me gag. I used to tell people I was allergic to them, just so I wouldn't be embarrassed if they served them.

3. I used to tap dance competitively. I can barely do any "wings" or even come close to a "coffee grinder" now, but I used to be pretty good. I wish I was better though.

4. I am the oldest of 6 kids and they are all boys, except 5. Ha! (An old joke of my Dad's) I have 4 younger sisters and we are all very different - in looks, personality, mothering, etc. But we all get along and meet for sisters lunch often and can talk for HOURS!

5. I dreamed of marrying into a close knit, fun, active family. I got the very opposite but wouldn't trade my hubby for anyone!

6. I have only broken 1 bone in my lifetime - my left pinky toe. I was on the floor watching cartoons with my first husband (I told you I was young) and he went to tickle me and I got up to run away and my toe got "caught" on the hall doorframe. OUCH! Good thing I have an uncle for a podiatrist. You never think you'll need one but when you do, you are grateful.

7. I don't like to listen to the radio in the car. I used to listen to it all the time and loudly as a teen/young adult but since I've become a Mom - no thanks. Maybe it's because of the babies crying or kids talking with friends. Or the fact that I like to talk to my kids and their friends. Or maybe because I listen to music all day when I'm teaching but I just don't like it. Even if I'm alone - I prefer the quiet. It calms me.

8. I want nothing more than to be everyone's friend. It bothers me when I find out someone doesn't like me. I want to be smiled at when I see someone I've met and know that they like me and are happy to see me. Sometimes I try too hard and I know it and feel like a fool afterwards but I can't help it. I know it's an insecurity but I just love people and want them to love me! I love the differences we all have! I appreciate those differences and want nothing more than to be your friend!

9. I love a clean house and sometimes I obsess about it. I used to be ridiculous about my home. I'd clean so much that my hands were raw and you could eat off my floors but after having kids and realizing it isn't the end of the world if there are a few dishes in the sink, I've relaxed. Also, having to go back to work and leaving Geoff and the kids home all day forced me to stop obsessing. Geoff would be doing homework all day and the kids had free reign sometimes. This about drove us to divorce! I would work a long day and come home exhausted from teaching to find dishes, laundry, messes and more to do. I couldn't complain because my kids were fed, happy and he was doing homework (which was important) but I felt like I had another job waiting for me at home. My kids know that I'm particular and when they clean their rooms they ask "Does it have to be clean or Mom-clean?" Sometimes I'm nice and just let them clean. :) But sometimes - it's time for Mom-inspections. If you ask them what I want for Mothers Day, Christmas, anniversary or birthday, they'll answer the same thing every time - A clean house and a happy family!

10. I love my Dad! He is my absolute most favorite person! We butted heads growing up - because we are a lot alike. But now I got to him for advise and counseling. I know he will give me the answer I need and not what I want to hear. He loves to be the life of the party - always telling a joke or keeping in the center of the conversation. He's well loved by all who meet him - people remember him from years back and with fond memories. He has a quote for everything in life and my favorite I have above my door. Every time we left the house as teens he would call out "Remember who you are" and my Mom would follow with "And what you stand for". Dad would remind us that we do not just carry our own name but our parents and family's name. We represent our parents, siblings, grandparents, etc. We must remember that when making decisions. I hope I make him proud!

11. and 12. (it was long so I gave it 2 answers) I took piano lessons off and on for about 6-7 years. It was a RULE in our home that everyone learned how to play the piano and you couldn't quit until you passed "the test". The test was you had to be able to play all the hymns in the hymnbook. Being LDS you would play for church more than you would play for anything else, so hymns were essential. I had been taking piano and started voice lessons when I was 14 yrs. Piano was primary and every 2 or 3 weeks, I could substitute piano for a voice lesson. I asked if I could quite piano and take voice all the time and I was told to "pass the test". My date was set for a Family Home Evening a month later. My Mom was going to Utah for the Music Education Week and when she returned I would have my test. Well, my Mom returned home with the NEW hymnbook! I was so worried!! New hymns and arrangements - could I pass? My brother thought he was going to be the tough guy and picked a couple of new ones and a mens arrangement in the back to play but I did it. I passed all 10 hymns that were picked and I got to take voice lessons every week! But I still love to play the piano - according to my mood! I dreamed of owning a baby grand piano and finally got one when we moved into our current home. I got a smoking hot deal on it (I was teaching out of a studio in a piano store and got it for cost) so I couldn't pass. If I'm happy, sad, upset, romantic or spiritually uplifted - you can tell by what I'm playing. My Dad told me that's what he missed the most when I moved out - I would play in the evening to unwind and he could tell how my day was by the songs I played. He could even tell what my dates were like by what I chose to play. Now my kids tell me they like it when I "play them to sleep".

13. I talk in my sleep. It usually only happens when I'm extremely tired but you can hold a conversation with me. I rarely divulge any secrets but I will tell you the truth, something I may not tell you the truth about if I'm awake . . . or at least that's what I've been told by my husband and friends. :) A couple of my kids do it too - I guess it's hereditary!

14. I love organization. This comes from my Mom. I am detailed about my bills and receipts. I'm picky about my documents on the computer. I love things organized but especially documents and papers!

15. I LOVE bare feet! I love shoes but when I don't have to wear them - even better! I love being without shoes, socks or anything on my feet! When I sleep I keep my whole under a blanket or sheet but my feet must be out. I don't like them covered. Wearing tennis shoes to workout, sports or hike drives me nuts and once I'm done - the shoes are the first thing I want to shed. I guess that's one good thing about living in Arizona - I wear flip flops 99% of the year! And if I'm in the car, they get kicked off. If I'm where I can slide them off, I do.

16. I am quick at learning computers. I didn't think anything of this until my father in law, who works in the computer business, started complimenting me on how quick I would pick up on new pieces of equipment he'd pass on to me. I was a receptionist at a medical center years ago (18 yrs ago when computers were pretty archaic) and they got a new computer program that I picked up on very quickly. I was asked to attend a class and train the building (6 floors, 50+ receptionist/surgery schedulers) how to use it. About 10 yrs ago I received my first Palm pilot from my father in law and it didn't have a manual (he passed it on to me when he upgraded) and I learned it all on my own. Then he would watch me quickly learn how to use my new cell phones, computers, remotes, etc. and now he brags about it. I feel that it's a compliment coming from Mr. Computer himself. I love creating documents and will stay up late creating something for my church calling or my teaching studio and figure out how to use all the different applications on my computer to do so.

17. I am a night owl! It's by nature and I was trained young. My parents were married for over 4 years before I was born and being the oldest, they taught me everything they knew. And they knew how to stay up late. They would keep me up with them so I would sleep in with them, too. Lately, I would kill to sleep in but yet I don't always have that opportunity with kids and work and a hubby who has to be up early. Yet I still stay up late. Hence why I'm typing this at 2am. :) I love to clean at night but Geoff gets mad when he can smell the bleach while sleeping. I feel I get a lot more done at night - why waste it?

18. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the color green. I love all shades of green - pea green, olive green, spring green, kelly green, you name it - I love it! I'm not sure why but it's been my favorite color since I can remember. I think at one point I liked purple but in my adult years - I'm a green kind of gal. It reminds me of nature and all things fresh and clean! If I have a choice, I always choose green. It makes me SMILE!

19. I'm a bit OCD. There are things that I do continually that leads me to believe I might be. I tap my foot to the lines in the street or the street lights as I drive by. I used to count them sub-consciencely but since I've had kids, not so much. Arrangements must be in their proper place. Once I have set a decoration, it doesn't change unless I change it. Geoff or the kids will try to put it back correctly after dusting but I go fix it if it's not how I had it. The pillows on the couch and bed have to be in their place and I will fix them if they aren't. I have tried to relax over the years with kids but if you come to my home and I've had a chance to pick up - they'll be in the same place every time, I promise. :)

20. I'm annoyed by bad spelling or words with more than one spelling used incorrectly. If I can't spell a word, I look it up or don't use it. And if you don't know the difference between your,you're OR too, to, two OR here, hear OR they're, there, their - learn them or don't use them. Drives me insane!

I'm sure I could come up with a few more but that's plenty for now. Now it's your turn! Tell me about you! :)

APOLOGIES . . . please accept??

2010-07-21T00:03:00.000-07:00

I sure hope you can forgive me. I tell you I'm blogging again and of course, I get sidetracked. Again and again. I think I have nothing on my plate - summer camps are over, I've said no to theatre jobs - and yet, I still have tons to do.

So, quick recap:

1 - I was going to go to girls camp but Geoff had to work nights while I would be gone and my extended family were going to be up at the cabin. So therefore, I'm not going. I was sad but every time I prayed it just didn't feel right. Now I know why. I need to be here with my family. But I'm still doing a lot of the prep work. I know how hard it can be. My Mom was Stake Camp Director for years growing up. It's MONTHS of preparation and I had so much time on my hands in July, I figured I might as well put them to good use, right?

2 - I had an AMAZING experience to sing a choir. Not just any choir but the recording choir for Rob Gardner's new oratorio, "Lamb of God". I wish I had the talent this man possesses in just an ounce of him!! We had 2 quick rehearsals during the week and on Saturday we recorded all day. The music was GORGEOUS, the cathedral-like hall we recorded in was acoustically BEAUTIFUL, the people I had the pleasure of singing with were AMAZINGLY TALENTED and to put a cherry on the top - we were accompanied by the LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA! It was an all-around spiritually and musically fulfilling day!

3 - Kylee went to her quarterly orthodontist appointment last week, expecting to hear she still needed to wait for a few more teeth to grow in, and about jumped out of her chair when he said "well, looks like it's time to put those braces on"! She is beyond excited, ticked at her mom and still a bit upset at the doctor. Let me explain - she's excited because "all" of her friends have had braces and already gotten them off. She's the "last". (Don't we LOVE teen exaggeration!) She's ticked at me because they were ready to put them on this week but the only appt available would've been the day before she left for camp. You see - she's getting an expander on the top and she'll have to 'crank' it every night. I was NOT going to send my baby to camp the day after and let her be miserable without me around to love on her! So, the date was moved to Wed morning (first appt of the day at 7:40am - silly girl!) the day AFTER she gets home from camp. And lastly, she's still kinda ticked at the doc because he's not putting ALL her braces on right away. Did I mention she's not very patient, like her Mom? She will get bottom braces and the expander put in and then after the top has moved like he wants and the teeth come through - he'll put on the top braces. We're excited for her, not excited for the "drama" that's going to follow and my checkbook has STILL not recovered!! Yikes!

Well, I'm still helping get things ready for camp. Kylee leaves for camp in 2 days. Geoff is working hard at the job he really dislikes. The weather here is miserably hot and muggy since the monsoons can't get through the heat, so we just get the humidity. But on the other hand . . . we leave in 10 days for Colorado. We are still praying for our little miracle and that we'll get this job!! We NEED this change and really feel this is the best for our family!

Stay TOONed!

More TOON drama is bound to happen!!

Summer Daze

2010-07-09T17:37:00.000-07:00

Gotta love the days of water and sun! I complain (a lot lately) about our heat and how ridiculous it is. . . but my kids tell me it's because I rarely go in the pool.

Well . . . I've been better this year than I have been in past AND today I even went in on my own, without them asking (or should I say begging me). We had diving contests, games, silliness and just downright fun. Here's some pics for proof and a few extras from the days I spent with my sisters at their pools as proof we've had some fun this summer!

Laying by the pool with my Lady-Lou, watching the kids play!

Kids goofing off!

Cute nephew, David, after a full day swimming

Studly Dakota!

Jonathan is gangsta! LOL

Maddi boo - my super smiley girl!

Maddi strikin' a pose!

Funny Cameron hiding from the sun

My cute nephew, Austin, who "did his hair cute" in the shower. . . all by himself! DUDE!

My silly, but gorgeous, Kylee striking a pose!

My too-studly-to-pose-for-Mom, Jonathan!

SEE! I was there!!

Insomniacs Anonymous

2010-07-06T01:20:00.000-07:00

Many of you know (from seeing me logged into Facebook, driving by my house after midnight and seeing lights on, or just seeing me walking the aisles of Wal-mart) I'm a night owl! But lately it seems that I've gone from being a night owl to just plain not being able to sleep. I can stay up all day, finally fall asleep around 3am and then be back up by 7 or 8am. I can blame it on a myriad of things -

1 - Geoff works nights 1-2 weeks a month, which makes it hard for me to sleep

2 - I've always been a night owl and therefore will remain a night owl, no matter how much sleep I get

3 - I have A LOT on my mind (i.e. the move to Colorado, the bills, the kids, etc etc etc)

4 - I get a heck of a lot more done at night when everyone is asleep, especially computer work (teaching schedules, emails, church work, etc)

5 - I hate to miss out on anything and so I enjoy catching up on all my friends on Facebook when the updates aren't pouring in every second

This list could go on and on but I'll spare you all the things on my mind. I wish I could sleep. I have always LOVED my sleep. I know I'm not lacking the sleep my body needs because as my siblings can attest, I'd be sick if I was. We all get sore throats and don't feel good when we are lacking. I have been lucky enough to grab a nap here and there but nothing worth losing a half a night's sleep over. And I've even cut down on my caffeine (I do love my Dr Pepper) later in the day to see if that's what it was. Nope. I'm just an insomniac and I know there are plenty of them out there. . . . I see them on Facebook! :)

What do you do when you can't sleep??

Stay TOONed . . .

HOLIDAY GRIPE

2010-07-05T15:28:00.000-07:00

Our past week has consisted of 3 things -

FAMILY, FUN and SUN!

We have "pool hopped" to cousin's pools and swam to our hearts content every day. We've spent hours by the pool with family, had tons of laughs, and we've got some awesome tans going! :) I'll post some pics soon. My camera took a swim one day, so I'm going to have to purchase another. Darn. And I can't get any of my pics on my phone to upload to facebook or send to my email. Very frustrating.

So here's my gripe - -

I really hate holidays that stay on the same DATE and therefore rotate days.

I like holidays likeThanksgiving - every 4th Thursday of Nov.

Why can'tHalloween be the last Friday or Saturday of October?

Or Independence Day be the first Friday of July?

AndChristmas the 4th Thursday of December?

It would make parents lives much easier. It would make school and my teaching schedule easy. Convenience! That's what I'm all about. And for those who work - great! It would make for longer weekends and no weirdness in vacation scheduling. Maybe I should run for prez! HAHA! No thanks!!

Well, we're heading back into the pool.

Today we're actually staying home in OUR pool and Geoff is joining us.

Happy Independence Day!!

UH OH . . . .UPDATE!

2010-06-24T23:59:00.001-07:00

I'm sorry for not blogging lately - especially after I just got back into the groove. But here's the update why - - -

1. I was working at Phx Theatre for a week in a music theatre summer camp featuring Beatles music. This was my first time working for them and I really enjoyed it! The kids in my group were ages 7-12 and they were AWESOME! Our teaching artist, Karen, was a little hard to get to know but we ended up working VERY well together and I LOVED our choreographer, Andrea! The three of us ran a group of about 24 kids and they learned theatre games, basics of theatre and 4 songs with choreography. The Beatle songs our group chose were: Ain't She Sweet, Octopus Garden, She Loves You and then all the Beatles kids (another class combined with us) sang Yellow Submarine. I really enjoyed it but I'm glad I don't have to make that daily commute for a while.

2. Dakota was invited to be on the 10 yr old All-Star Baseball team again! He was excited and really wanted to win. Without going into great detail - Dakota is an INCREDIBLE player! He played 2nd base and pitched as well. He's very quick on his feet and a coach favorite. He got the flu one night and although he dressed out and went to the game, he just didn't have the energy to play. He was so upset and wouldn't leave his teammates but instead sat in the dugout sick as a dog hollering for the team to do their best. He is a vital part of his teams and the kids really missed him out on the field! They didn't win but got all the way to the end of the tournament and the kids played GREAT! It was a bad call by the coach and he admitted it as well. They should've won. But secretly, I'm happy I don't have to drive to Douglas, AZ (a HOLE IN THE WALL city south of us) for the next games! Shhh! Don't tell him though.

3. For another 2 weeks, I worked at yet another music theatre summer camp. But this time, in my neck of the woods. EVCT is a GREAT theatre and I've been honored to have worked their summer/spring break camps for couple years now. I love the kids, I love the staff and I love how close to home it is. With this workshop, I got to pick the songs for the morning classes. In the afternoon, they put on a show that was written for them. I won't bore you with the songs (three classes of 18-20 kids learned 3 songs each) but they all worked very hard and we had a lot of laughs! The performance and last day is tomorrow (well, today now) and I'm looking forward to it. The kids love performing, the parents love seeing them and I LOVE seeing the hard work come together! And p.s. - it's PAYDAY!

Well, only 3 things but they took up most of my days. Some days started at 6:30am when the alarm went off and ended around midnight after kids finally got to bed! I'm looking forward to the sleeping in, chores getting caught up and working on my workout and tan - - all starting next week!

How are you enjoying your summer??

Stay TOONed - details on Colorado coming up!

Swish . . . KLUNK!

2010-06-14T22:16:00.001-07:00

As I was driving to my summer camp this morning, I turned a corner and heard

SWISH . . . KLUNK!

I turned around to find a baseball bag, a couple of binders for church and some shoes. I got to thinking (this only happens when I have time ALONE in the car) about my different stages of "swish . . . klunk".

When I was single, it was a "book - swish, klunk!" I had books for school, books of music, scripts, church books, hymn books, etc.

Occasionally it would be a "shoe - swish, klunk!" I had LOTS of shoes in my car at all times. There were extra flip flops (in case I changed outfits or bought a new one), tennis shoes (in case I needed closed toed ones), dance shoes (characters, jazz, and ballet - sometimes in more than one color), a pair of basic black heels (every performer needs one handy), and even just any shoe because I would sometimes go to the car without shoes and it's illegal to drive without them in Az, so if I got pulled over, I had a pair to slip on. Truth be known - I hate shoes and am found most times barefoot, so I think I was just lazy and didn't want to take them in the house after "stripping" them off the second I got in the car.

When I had kids, I moved up to a "diaper bag - swish, klunk!" The diaper bag was large and filled with such necessities and sometimes more than one was found in the vehicle. And can I just mention I hated when I would run out of diapers and/or wipes in BOTH bags? LOL

Now, my kids are older and the swish, klunk is not always easily identifiable. It could be a myriad of things. To name a few:

1 - baseball bags

2 - baseball gloves that didn't make it into the bag

3 - baseballs that come from the bag

4 - barbies

5 - hymnbooks (I occasionally get called to substitute and I leave it in the vehicle and forget and then the next time I grab another - you get the picture)

6 - shoes - and now if they're mine, it's not because of me! Kylee is the culprit here! :)

7 - cups of all sorts from a myriad of locations (i.e. Sonic, Circle K, QT, etc)

This list could go on and on and on . . .

Have you "Swish . . . KLUNK" -ed today??

They're back!!

2010-06-05T19:46:00.000-07:00

(my Jon-boy, all tuckered out)

Jonathan and Geoff came home today!!

I missed my boys!!!

About 11a my sweet Jonathan and cute hubby, Geoff got home from Scout Encampment. They were tired and SMELLY!

My Jonathan is not a super affectionate-type kid, but today when he walked in and yelled "my boy is home!" - he came right over to me and gave me a BIG hug!

I LOVED THAT!!!

He quickly told me he wanted a shower and I obliged just as quick. :)

Geoff came in and gave me a kiss then proceeded to RUN past me to the bathroom. Thinking he wanted a shower just as bad, I was quickly told different. Apparently there was plenty of practical jokers up at camp and he'd been "holding it" until he got

home. . . afraid of being stuck, tipped or otherwise tortured if caught in the Port-a-John. LOL!! Thank goodness it's only ONE item of business for men that they would have to use the facilities! LOL!!!

After Geoff had "relieved" himself and Jonathan had showered, they came in to tell us all about the fun of the week. All while Jonathan unpacked and the other kids snacked on his extra treats.

Jonathan's highlights of the week:

Best Breakfast - Garrett Smith's Famous Breakfast Burritos

Best Dinner - Garrett Smith's BBQ Ribs and Celia Halstead's Famous Rolls

Best Dessert - Cobbler

Best Activity - everything

Best Day - Friday (he liked his Solo Experience)

Best Experience - when he saw his Dad on Thursday and watching all the men give Bro. Wheeler a blessing (powerful is how described it)

Sounds like he had a great time and he says he's ready to go again next year!!

Val Vista Ward, Mountain View Stake

has the BEST Young Men's Encampment!!

And tomorrow he gets to pass the sacrament for the FIRST TIME!!

What an awesome week for my awesome boy!!!

I love you, Jon-boy!

A kid at heart . . .

2010-06-05T18:31:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky to be able to do what I love for money and I know that, BUT . . . I have REALLY enjoyed "being a kid" this past week. Well, along with being a Mom, too. I did make them do chores but we got really fast and within an hour, we were back to having fun!

Over the past 3 weeks, I have enjoyed swimming with my kids, watching LOTS of TV shows, hitting QT for slushes, playing on the computer, sleeping in and staying up late - just to name a few.

As I sit here eating dinner and watching Toy Story (this show always catches my attention when surfing through the channels), I think of the responsibility I have coming up over the next 3 weeks and I think I'm going to miss my lazy days.

Next week, I begin my "summer work" at Phoenix Theatre. It's a week long Beatles in Revue workshop for kids ages 7-12. I'm kinda excited since the songs we picked are super fun -

Octopus' Garden

Ain't She Sweet

Yellow Submarine

and

She Loves You

The hours are kinda long (9a-4p) and it's a bit of a drive in rush hour but it isn't all just singing songs. They learn choreography and have a craft time each day too. I've never worked this camp, so I'm a bit nervous (yes, I said nervous) and excited too!

The following 2 weeks I'll be at East Valley Childrens Theatre. Their summer camp is 2 weeks with "class" in the morning and "show rehearsal" in the afternoon. The hours are the same as PT with the morning classes of acting, singing and dance. Then after lunch they work in each of the areas on an original show that has been written by someone for EVCT. The show and songs are usually really CutE and FuN! I've done their camps a few times now and so I'm not nervous at all about this one. And this one is very close to home (about a mile) which makes it convenient to come home for lunch, if I want.

I'm excited, nervous and happy to work these next 3 weeks to make a little extra money to help pay for our summer fun BUT I will miss the fun things we do as a family and the no alarm clock ringing in the morning!

So I guess I will have to remain a . . .

KID AT HEART

. . . while working these weeks alongside some kids who are excited and nervous too - just like me!

Change . . .

2010-06-03T10:52:00.000-07:00

About a month ago Geoff's job was on the line. We were unsure if he would have his job and had to wait for a week to know. They kept dragging it out and it was MISERABLE! As anyone would, we started looking elsewhere - just in case. I was on the phone with my best friend in Colorado and mentioned to her all our fears and she reassured me it all would work out. I trust this gal with my life and so I just kept praying and keeping the faith. 2 more days passed and she called me with news of her hubby's work looking at a new position. Geoff called him and discussed the details. Now we are just waiting . . . summer is slow for the company and so we are just waiting and hoping this comes true this fall. Although I have lived in Arizona my entire life (39 years) and it would be hard to leave - - we need a change. A change of seasons, change of scenery, change of employment, change full of new adventures.

I have family, students, friends, and memories here in Arizona. And I have to admit it scares me a bit but I'm ready for a CHANGE! I really feel that we NEED this!

The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it,

move with it, and join the dance. Alan Watts

When we mentioned it to the kids there were tears. Kylee cried because she doesn't want to leave her friends and she is "making history" by being the last class of 9th graders at Poston Jr High before Mesa Public Schools put all of them at the high schools. Maddi cried because Geoff mentioned to them that he would be doing a lot of traveling with this job but that it would be worth it because I would be home more and the pay is significantly higher. We assured her with cell phones and computers, she'd be fine. She LOVES to Skype and so she was ok. The boys didn't seem to care, as long as they could play baseball.

This may or may not happen, but we still pray for change.

Stay TOONed!!

This is what memories are made of!

2010-06-01T22:01:00.000-07:00

Monday morning came VERY early! My alarm went off at 5:15am and I woke up Jonathan. I love how boys are so fast. He showered and dressed and we left the house at 5:35 to hit McDonald's for breakfast. The last thing Geoff said to him when he said goodbye the night before was - -

THIS IS WHAT MEMORIES ARE MADE OF. Don't sit idly by - get out there and enjoy it!

What a great man I married and what great advice! Jonathan is a carbon copy of his Dad and I think he understood. When we arrived at the church parking lot about 5 minutes early, Jonathan was apprehensive to get out right at first but as more boys showed up, he began to relax and before I knew it, he was 'gone'. I sat with some other Mom's while they loaded up, had prayer and headed out. I picked up Geoff from work and then headed home to hit my pillow again but that was short-lived. By the time I got home it was almost 8am and the others were ready to hit the party for Memorial Day at my sisters. I gave them a small "list" of things to get done before we could go and it was about 11:30 when we pulled out of the garage and headed on our way, leaving Geoff to sleep on the couch from his nightshift.

Green chili burros, 3 kinds of homemade salsa, chips, beans, cheese, guacamole, sour cream and other yummy toppings were there waiting for us. We filled our tummies and our hearts and minds with loads of fun, visiting with family and swimming. All of us got a little sun, considering it was only "warm" for Arizona on this holiday. I always enjoy visiting with all of my family and although we were missing Mindy and her family (in Colorado), Liz (in Oregon), my Jonathan (at scout camp) and my Geoff (asleep), we still had 19 grandkids, Grandpa and Grandma, 7 adults and LOTS of noise and fun! Never a dull moment at the Whiting Family Parties! We arrived home just in time for Geoff to eat some food we brought home and then he headed out the door back to work. All of us crashed in the family room on couches and floor for about an hour or so until we were awaken by the doorbell. Kylee had girls waiting for her to go "lead" them as they heart attacked a new Beehive on the eve of her 12th birthday.

Tuesday started with Kylee, myself and the YW president going to the above mentioned new Beehive's home to welcome her in to Young Women's and present her with her new Personal Progress Book, journal, theme card and For Strength of Youth pamphlet. Kylee is the Beehive President and I'm the Personal Progress leader. It's fun to go together and welcome the new girls and talk about the joy and fun of Personal Progress. Unfortunately while we were there, we learned that at scout camp yesterday (their first day), one of the leaders (Rick Wheeler - who was one of Jonathan's previous scout leaders) was in an accident. He was the first to ride the zip line and he hit a tree. They worried about spinal injuries and fortunately there were none but he was air evac'd to St Joe's (they were up by Strawberry). He had some pretty serious facial damage. They had to do some facial reconstruction and wire his jaw shut since it was broken. This just about broke my heart in two when I heard this! Rick is a gentle giant and an amazing man who has had an amazing influence on both my boys! We pray he will recover quickly and that his family will be comforted. Then my heart went to my son, who was there when this happened. I hope Jonathan learned as he watched the priesthood put into action and felt the spirit as Bro. Wheeler remained calm through it all. I pray that his heart is calmed and he is ok. My Jon-boy has such a tender heart and I hope he remains strong and still enjoys himself without apprehension and fear. I hope he remembers the WISE words his Dad gave him and is getting out there to MAKE SOME MEMORIES!

Stay TOONed!

All-Star Baseball season is starting!

A "Plaid-tastic" Day!

2010-05-30T23:31:00.001-07:00

I closed my current show today. This is always a bittersweet thing. The sweet - I LOVE what I do and LOVE my time when I'm there. The bitter - the drive, the time away from family and sacrifices that are made to be there. I went into this job a little blind. Well, everyone involved did. I mean, I knew my job title. Music Director. I would teach the songs that were in show and then put together a group of musicians to play for the productions. Easy enough. I've done it many times before. I knew "of " the music. They were from an era gone by and in a similar show. Right? WRONG! The show was a new production. And when I say new - I mean NEW! Greasepaint Theatre was the FIRST theatre to put this show on. It was still being written just 4 months ago. Forever Plaid (original show) is a show consisting of 4 men. The Sound of Plaid (show I was working) is a show consisting of 16 kids, boys and girls and a few extra characters. We added 3 extra little ones to make an additional trio, making our cast 21 kids ranging in age from 7-17 yrs. They could all sing, we heard them audition, but some had never sung in a group or sung harmonies. And these songs weren't easy. And did I mention that they had anywhere from 4-8 parts in harmony? Oh! And did I mention there were 22 songs in the show?! AND did I mention I was IN the show too? The band (piano, bass and drums) are ON stage and I was front and center at the baby grand, in a tux. I conducted with my head and played the whole show. I even had a bit part where I was featured a couple of times. I had my work cut out for me and I have to admit, I came home from the first rehearsal and cried. I felt way like I was in WAY OVER MY HEAD and I feared I wasn't going to be able to pull it off. I almost felt out of my league, but yet still knew somewhere inside that I was capable. I just had to plow through and that we did. Some nights I felt like I was making enemies with kids I didn't even know yet. Yes, there were nights of frustration but then there were what I like to call "a-ha!" moments. We'd plunk out parts until they were blue in the face and I was tired of hearing them and then we'd put them together with accompaniment and I was almost in tears. Not from the frustration but from the pure joy of hearing them! They'd sing and it was GORGEOUS! They made me smile!! Fortunately those moments outshine the bad every time! :)

To top it off - this show was set in 1964 and these kids were not even a twinkle in most of their parents eyes yet. Heck - some of their parents weren't even born yet! So needless to say, we had quite the time teaching them about the era. They didn't know who Marilyn Monroe was or what the Ed Sullivan Show was. We even had to describe was a record and record player was to some. "Oh, you mean those black circle things?" It was educational for everyone involved. So let me share with you what I learned. I learned if I keep my "momma patience" and work hard, it pays off. These kids simply amazed me. If you had asked me about the show just 2 days before we opened, I would've told you not to buy a ticket. (Not really but you get the idea.) It was rough, I'm not gonna lie. But today for the closing show, they showed everyone in attendance what hard work can do. They had an amazing show and they "showed up" for every single one of them! What a great run! GO PLAIDS!

And I would be an awful mother if I didn't add that today my Jonathan was ordained a Deacon. I can't believe he is 12 yrs old. He leaves for scout camp at 6am (thank goodness McD's is open at 5am!) and will be gone all week. I asked him tonight if he was gonna miss us. He replied, "Yeah, but I think I'll survive." Then I asked him if he was gonna miss his Mom and if he wanted a picture of me to remember me. He again replied, "I'll miss ya but I think I'll live without one. I've got you here." (He proceeded to point to his head) Lil' Stinker! Love my Jon-boy!! He's my shy and quiet kid but he's got a sense of humor that will catch you off guard and he knows how to have fun with his friends. I'm not worried and I'm sure he'll have a blast this week!!

And now, I'm off to bed - big day tomorrow.

Stay TOONed!

Absence makes the heart grow fonder?!?!?!

2010-05-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned before, this summer is all about CHORES! Or at least we'll start them, like New Years resolutions, right? I have never considered myself a pig or even a real messy-type person but with shows, teaching and life in general - things get away from you. I mean, laundry gets done and kids are fed and dishes are done, but I get behind on stuff that I just can't keep up on. Things that are important to me - maybe not everyone but to me. So . . . we are gonna fix that this summer.

So far, so good. I have changed things up a bit and we decided (we, as in the hubby and I) that we'd take a room a day and divide up the chores in 4 ways to deep clean it from top to bottom. This usually entails -

1 - vacuum (including the edges)

2 - dusting (including removing all items and replacing after dusted, ceiling fans)

3 - wipe down walls, baseboards, door frames

4 - windows (wash in/out, wipe down sills and blinds)

First day was my studio room. The kids were GREAT and the room looks GREAT! I did have to go in and do some "touch up" but most of that was my stuff to go through anyway. I can see through my windows, my shelves are easier to find music in and it looks and smells great! (I love the new room/fabric refresher from Bath and Body! It's about $8 a bottle, lasts forever and the SMELL is AmAZing and LASTS FOREVER!) And all of this happened in about an hour and a half and with little to no fighting.

Day two is happening now. The family room. Center was emptied and Old English'ed, blinds, windows, couch cushions removed and vacuum is running in couches (YIKES), walls washed, etc. etc. etc. BUT . . . there is a TON of fighting happening today! It's only been about an hour and it's almost done but you'd think I'd asked them all to scrub the top of the Chrysler building! Arguing about this, yelling about that! I'm pretty sure some of it has to do with the fact that they all stayed up a little TOO LATE since it was the first FRIDAY SCHOOL WAS OUT but my goodness!!! I came to the solace of my room and as I left them to finish up (hubby and I do help them - I did yesterday, he did today) I heard one of the boys tell the others . . . and I quote . . . "I don't know if I like her home more now. Maybe she'll get another show."

Does absence REALLY make the heart grow . . . FONDER??? LOL! Maybe not, but I'll have a CLEAN HOUSE in the meantime!

Hot Tub? Bathtub? Anything??

2010-05-27T21:23:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a Mom just needs to escape!!

Although today was pretty low key, I was really craving a long soak in a tub tonight. But, alas, our master bath only has a large shower (and it is large). Our hall bathroom is just a regular size tub and I just wasn't diggin' on it tonight.

. . . then

the State Farm commercial came on - the one where the 3 guys sing the jingle (come on, you know it - ♪ ♫ Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there ♪ ♫) and they instantly get what they want. First a sandwich, then the hot girl and lastly a hot tub. My Maddi snapped her finger after the commercial and said "hot tub". When nothing happened she looked at me with a sly smile and said, "That actually doesn't work, Mom."

She's such a hoot!

Secretly, I wished it did work tonight!

A hot tub!

Wouldn't that be nice to relax in

with a good book, a cold drink and escape from the world?

What do you like to do to escape reality??

Bittersweet!

2010-05-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

It's the last day of school for Mesa and it's a FULL day! And by that I mean ALL DAY OF SCHOOL - not a half day like Gilbert. And I'm good with that!! :) I get ONE MORE DAY to organize, clean and get my chore charts printed before they get home. They know they are "my slaves" for the summer, with some chores that require time. With school, dance, baseball, shows, and all that life brings, I enjoy the summer in that I can finally get some BIG things done. Among my list is clean the garage, finish painting the game room, touch up painting bedrooms and living areas, wiping down baseboards and doorframes and touch up painting them if needed, and lots of others.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO CLEAN UP DURING THE SUMMER?

We also have some big plans for summer and hope they can be followed through. I am working 3 weeks of summer music theatre camps, scout camp, girls camp, Journey (young women's retreat), Time to Blossom (girls retreat), trip to Colorado, trip to Oregon, etc etc etc. Here's hoping I keep my sanity!

But back to my bittersweet moment - I'm excited to have my kids home, excited to get some things done, excited to not have to get up so early, excited to enjoy some quality time together. But I'm not excited for the noise, the messes, the dozens of kids in my pool (although that is fun!), the LATE bedtimes, the lack of motivation. Can't decide which weighs heavier for me!

WHAT ABOUT YOU??

Last night of silence . . .

2010-05-26T23:17:00.000-07:00

It's only 10pm and my house is quiet. It's the last night of "school bedtimes". And because I'm not at the theatre and Geoff is gone to work (he's on night shifts this week) - MOM SET THE LAW and THE LAW WON! Everyone had dinner, showered, and was in bed (since there was no real homework) ON TIME!! (insert song ditty - Wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles)

I will miss this time. The time when I can enjoy the golden silence of just my mind and sometimes the t.v. MY alone time when Geoff is working nights and the kids are in bed at a decent time. MY time to goof around on FB. MY time to do what I WANT! Tonight I started my summer chore charts (well, I updated them from last year), I played on FB, I emailed a bunch of peeps, looked at Beatles music for summer camp (details about that another day), and text silly messages back and forth with the hubby at work. We discussed how we are going to spend the LAST day of the school year when ALL the kids are gone. He will have just come off a nightshift, so we'll have to play it by ear and see how tired he is, but we listed lunch, cuddling on the couch with a movie we've been wanting to see, looking at houses in another state (details to be explained later too), and planning out our summer fun. I'm just excited to have a day with JUST HIM to myself for one more day until the fall! I love my Geoff!

ALSO - - -

Tonight was a BIG night for my Jon-boy! Jonathan turned 12 last Friday and he got to go to mutual for the first time tonight. He and I went on an "errand" (that's what we call soda runs) and I asked him if he was nervous. His reply was a very timid "kinda". But he left with a friend and had fun! Tonight they split up into troops for Scout Camp. He leaves for his first Scout Camp on Monday at 6AM!

Lots going on this weekend . . . .

"Stay TOONed!"

To Blog or Not to Blog . . .

2010-05-26T22:35:00.001-07:00

That IS the question!

I have so many friends who blog. I have so many family members who blog. My life is anything but exciting BUT I do have adventures, mishaps, preteen moments, theatre geeks and lots of other "fun" things that happen in my life.

Would you really like to hear them? Would you really read them? Be honest! Let me know if it's worth typing and adding something else to my do list in my incredibly exciting life! HAHA!

Simple Joys!

2008-06-07T00:11:00.000-07:00

It's been a LONG time since I've blogged. I'm sure you all missed me . . . j/k!

I have so much to blog about but I'll spare you all the details and instead just recap:

School is officially out! Kylee CRIED for hours after school because she "will miss her awesome teacher and will really miss elementary school". She was very emotional about leaving 6th grade and although it's exciting, she is nervous about junior high.

We have had house guests - Medlyn's from Utah - and THOROUGHLY enjoyed the WEEK they stayed with us. They slept, swam, hung out, swam, played XBox, swam, etc.

While they were here, I had to leave for about 3 days to go on our ward's YW Retreat. I was blessed with the opportunity to be on the committee that planned this "Journey to Eternity" and it was AMAZING! I was in charge of getting speakers for the girls and I think I fulfilled that. I had Heather Madder come and speak to them about having DIVINE NATURE. She was awesome and I think she affected the leaders as well. The last night I had my Dad come and talk about not ever feeling alone. He was INCREDIBLE and I know he affected the girls and leaders by the testimonies born the next morning and Sunday. I could not have been prouder of my DAD!

My boys had the incredible opportunity to attend a week of Diamondbacks Baseball Training Camp. They had a blast and both did great! They got lots of kudos from the coaches and Dakota won 4th place overall (kids 4 years older than he participated) in their olympics. They are anxious now for Winter Training that Dad has promised they can do.

I'm knee deep into rehearsals for The Secret Garden (playing Lily) with my Kylee (in the children's chorus). We have had fun with rehearsals (old college friend is playing Archie opposite of me) and with costume fittings (yea for the weight loss!) and publicity pictures! I have just started adding in the additional rehearsals at Hale (Widow Paroo in The Music Man) this week as well. It's been a crazy schedule but I thoroughly enjoy it once I get to the rehearsal.

Tonight Geoff is at work (on nights this week), Kylee is at a sleepover and my 3 youngers are asleep. I had 6 no show lessons (welcome to summer! Good thing they pay in advance!!) and I was able to be a "MOM"! I know this may be normal for you all but I don't always get the joy of fixing dinner AT dinnertime and then serve it, eat it with the family and clean up after it! I so enjoyed this process!! I usually fix something early in the day to be thrown in the oven at dinner time and if I'm lucky I get some before I head out to rehearsal or when I get back from rehearsal. Otherwise, it's fast food for me and sometimes everyone. I made homemade pizza tonight (even the crust) and a caesar salad. This is a family favorite and the kids had a blast eating with me - funny how the smallest things make kids happy. We enjoyed ice cream and vanilla Oreos for dessert.

I have read over 200 blogs (sorry for not commenting, just trying to catch up)! I read about worms, photo shoots, rain, summer water fun in Az, realized I missed a friends birthday (Sorry Julie!! Gift for you this weekend!!), baby firsts - crawling, smiles, etc., chicken pox, sad days for Mickey, blue eyes, baseball, hockey games, bored kids, bunko fun, projects, pierced ears, clean and organized rooms, husbands leaving the country and coming home safe again, chores, HIGH ladders, diets, church callings, etc. etc. etc. You all have such great lives and amazing families, adorable kids and loads of fun!!

Again, I apologize for not commenting but know that I enjoy reading your blogs and hearing all about you and your family! Keep it coming and I'll try and do the same when I can! Love to all and ENJOY YOUR SUMMER!!!

Shakin' it up a bit and R E S P E C T !

2008-05-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned before, I walk 4-5 miles a day. This morning, yet again alone, I headed out at 8:30AM for my walk. I got 2 miles around and thought I'd change it up a bit and take the last 3 (maybe if I'm up for it - 6) laps on my Kylee's bike. Geoff had taken the kids to school in the "new" truck and so I could use her cruiser. I headed out for the first lap and realized how old I am!! My goodness! I got one lap in and hurt so bad that I quit for the day. I felt muscles in my legs I haven't felt forever and don't want to feel them again for a long time! I now have the utmost respect for my kids who would ride their bikes to and from school and ride the neighbor numerous times after school. I used to think that bike riding was "relaxing" and "enjoyable" but after this morning - I'M JUST OLD!

I'll try and make it quick ...

2008-05-04T23:21:00.000-07:00

Lots happening but I'll give you small details:

1- Les Mis audition - well, I got one more callback and there were 3 others for Fantine. Didn't get it but that's ok. I guess it's rare to make it this far with your first audition at this theatre. So I'm happy to have made it this far.

2 - Secret Garden audition #1 - made callbacks and it was between 1 other and myself. She was older than I, so I thought I had a pretty good chance considering Lily was to have died 10 years ago. I didn't think they would cast someone who looked like she aged with someone living. But the director had other ideas. The gentleman I auditioned with called me after the callback and said that I sang better and acted when she didn't give him anything to work with and he didn't like her "older voice warble". Gave me a little hope but she got the part. Oh well.

3 - Kylee didn't get the role but they did call and say that she did a great job and to continue auditioning and hopefully for them again sometime. I thought that was very kind! She was really upset and told me a couple of times that "her life was over for the summer since she wasn't able to make it". Such a drama queen - hmmmm, wonder where she gets it? I was even happier when I didn't get the show - that would've been harder on her.

4 - Auditioning for 1 or 2 shows this week - another Secret Garden and The Music Man. I've done both shows before and MM twice but I'd really love to play Lily again and if I got Marian - I love the theatre. So, we'll just see what happens. I only get a chance to do one show a year and it's usually in the summer that I perform. I'm hoping for something, at least.

5 - Our van finally gave up! We had a 2001 Pontiac Montana that has been nickeling and diming us for some time. It's been a good van and has gotten us to and fro for almost years but it had so many little things that kept going wrong. We just replaced the thermostat and the water pump. We found that we had a gas leak and foun online that there was a recall, so luckily we didn't have to pay for that repair. But within days of getting that fixed we noticed a radiator smell and it kept overheating. So, we drove it to AAA and the bad news came: our motor had burned out. UG! We didn't have $4000+ to fix it so we decided to shop for a new vehicle and see what someone would give us for the hunk o' junk! Well, we found a few nice vans and thought great! They even said they'd take our van! Well, they 'couldn't make the numbers work' for us on them and we were back to square one. As we were leaving the lot, they asked us if we would be interested in any other vehicles other than a minivan. We explained we have 4 kids and need the seating. They then showed us a Tahoe - my dream! But I was worried about the numbers being too high for us! They "worked the numbers" for us and gave us a used Tahoe (2006 with only 30K miles on it) for the same price as the vans we were looking at!! They accepted our van as a trade too! DONE DEAL! It's beautiful and my insurance is only $22 more a month! I'll post pics tomorrow. It is in EMMACULATE condition and I swear you'd think NO ONE has even driven it except that there are 2 rock chips in the window which we will get fixed with our glass coverage next month. :)

6 - No more weight lost but I'm losing inches fast! My clothes are fitting better and I feel great! There were anywhere from 2-4 other gals that walked with me daily but I'm on my own lately. I've still enjoyed it though. Time to think and sweat it out. I've upped my 4 miles to 5 miles a day now.

7 - Geoff has only 3 more days on his 7 day off stint. He is not wanting to go back but likes having this week off every other week. :) We haven't gotten a lot done since we spent 3 days dealing with auto crap, but we're gonna enjoy tomorrow together.

Ok, it wasn't that short but now I've updated everything and it won't be such a big deal to just blog a bit each day now. Later and G'nite!!

New temples in Arizona!

2008-04-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

So excited to have 2 more! One in Gilbert and another in Gila Valley (Thatcher/Safford).
Go HERE to read more.
We are so blessed to have so many temples so near by - I better up my attendance in thanks to the Lord!

A moment to spare. . .

2008-04-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

Whew! I'm pooped and it just never seems to end. But then I am living life to its fullest and although I plop into bed at the end of the day completely worn out - I am enjoying it!

Let's see - first, baseball is going and going AND GOING! The boys are doing great and I think they are enjoying it. On the same note, Papa Toon bought them their birthday present early which is a spot in the Diamondbacks Baseball Training Camp. They are super excited to get to work with their "idols" and learn more!

Not many late nights to Wal-mart or Applebees but I have been found at Albertsons late at night getting field trip lunch makings.

Laurel trip is still in the works with a rib dinner fundraiser just around the corner.

Dance is continuing and I'm ready for it to be over! I thought I found a great studio because it was very price worthy but it's a far drive and I'm also not thrilled with they have been learning or should I say not learning. Kylee could so much more last year and I feel as if she's recessed this year. I think we'll be looking for a new studio this fall.

Family is so fun! The baptism was special and we had a great time with yummy food. We are meeting again this Sunday (early May Fast Sunday dinner) with a talent show from the grandkids. My kids are anxious to do whatever it is they have planned. They won't tell me - "it's a surprise!" Update on that later.

I went to my Les Mis callback. It was nerve-wracking but fun! We all sang our songs that we prepared and then we did a dance call. There were 2 dances - a waltz and a march. They weren't hard but not as easy as I thought they might be considering this is not a big dance show. I did well and the producer did ask me to step over in front of him (when we were in our groups of 3) so he could watch. Better to be watched than not, right? Then I got to sing from the show. That was fun and now it's the waiting game. UG! This is the part about theatre I hate . . . the waiting game!!

Went to my audition for The Secret Garden last night with Kylee. It went really well and I'm anxious to hear if I get a callback and how Kylee did! I was so proud of her and the confidence she posed!! She talked to the directors with ease and sang REALLY well. A chip off the old block! :)

I didn't go sing with George Dyer. I know - sad, but the schedule they wanted for me to rehearse was crazy! Thursday night and Friday starting at 2pm. With all the students and theatre I would've had to cancel, I would have lost over $300! I just can't do that. I called and got one of my students to step in and with the stories she told me - I'm glad I didn't go. The music biz is cutthroat but let me tell you - the church music biz is worse! Oh, the stories I could tell but won't. :)

Still teaching a ton and ready for a summer break! Working at the theatre every other weekend running sound. We are looking for another vehicle or should I say - an additional vehicle. Geoff loves his new shift! He hates the 7 days off but loves the 7 days off. Life is fun and we are enjoying every minute!! Keep blogging! I read yours daily and will post as I can. :) Love and miss you all!!

** UPDATE **
I got called back for Lily in Secret Garden! There are 2 other gals that I have to "fight" with for it. We will sing with Archie on Wednesday evening at 6pm. YEA! The guy cast as Archie is an old friend and we are going to run the songs on Monday night. Nothing yet for Kylee but no one has been cast as Mary yet either. So still praying for her!

No free time!

2008-04-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

I've been so swamped that I have not had a chance to do any blogging, just read a few here and there. Here is a run-down of the past week:

1 - Baseball games for 2 boys on TWO different teams!
2 - Late night trip to Wal-mart and Applebees for yummy appetizers & dessert for my birthday with JULIE! Thank you!!!! Love my gift and who can say no to chocolate, a good friend and great conversation! (We were at the end of the day and not looking so hot - sorry, no pics!)
3 - Trip to Pinedale in 11 hours - there and back. I'm on the Laurel Retreat committee (Journey to Eternity) and we went up to scout the area where we will hold all the week's activities and it was an emotional, spiritual high! It's going to be an incredible experience for these girls!!
4 - My girls danced at the County Fair. They did great (pics later) and I'm glad we went. It was fun for all, although a short trip.
5 - My nephew was baptized on Saturday afternoon. Fun times and good food with family!
6 - I got a callback from my first audition with Phoenix Theatre's production of Les Miserables!! I go on Saturday morning and sing again for the director who is flying in. Keep your fingers crossed for that! It's a paying gig, too!
7 - Received an email from an old friend who is music directing The Secret Garden and wants me to audition next week. Looks like I may be on the stage this summer after all! YEA!
8 - Went to a callback for a new, original musical. But didn't stay once I found out it was about a bi-sexual woman. Historical and true or not - it's not my cup of tea to play something like that. They were disappointed and called me twice after I left. Oh well.
9 - Monday was my Geoff's birthday -- the last one of his 30's. :) And it was my Dad's birthday too.
10 - Last night was our Enrichment - RS Birthday. It was a great evening honoring Pres Hinckley and the 6 Be's. We had a guest artist sing - George Dyer. He is an amazing talent and eye candy to watch. :)
11 - I got a msg DURING George's song asking me to sing backup for him on Friday evening's concert this week. HA! The soprano backed out at the last minute. So . . . the rest of the week will now look like this:

1 - makeup lessons squeezed in wherever because I have the rehearsal and concert for George on Thursday and Friday nights.
2 - singing for George!
3 - callbacks for Les Mis on Saturday morning at 11:15 - scary and exciting!
4 - teaching, teaching, teaching
5 - finish preparing RS lesson for Sunday - a week early because the other teacher is out of town
6 - 3 more baseball games this week
7 - 1 more dance lesson
8 - preparing for audition early next week for Secret Garden
9 - First Aid clinic for girls camp for Kylee on Saturday - not ready for this! She's not old enough for camp!! IS SHE!?!?
10 - a date in there somewhere with my hubby
11 - work at the theatre this weekend - maybe!

WHEW! I'm tired now! And it hasn't even started yet!!

New Look for Maddi!

2008-04-08T08:41:00.000-07:00

We noticed the squinting and sitting close to the tv a few weeks back and decided it's time to take her in. Although I wondered why the teacher at school, never mentioned anything. I could see resemblances of the result of my eyesight in her. Last week we mentioned she may need glasses to see better and she got nervous. I guess a little boy in her class got them and the other kids teased him. We talked about how unkind that is and how you never know if you'll be the next, so we shouldn't tease. (Teaching moment!)
Well, knowing that I didn't want to spend a lot if she didn't need them or if she did need glasses, she may damage them being only 7 years old, we took her to Walmart on Friday after school to get have the exam. YEP! She has a slight near-sightedness, like me. We picked out some frames (Hilary Duff, of course) and they told us it would be 3-5 days. She was so disappointed! She wanted to have them right then and the wait was going to kill her. Well, 3 days (yes, included the weekend) went by and I got a call yesterday morning that they were ready! WOW! Fast!! Dad took her after work to pick them up and I took her after teaching to get an outfit to help her self-esteem on her first at school with glasses. All evening Maddi kept putting up and down from her eyes. When I asked her what she was doing, she said "Mom, I see things so better now! I can see the leaves on the trees and there are little white flowers!" It broke my heart a little that she hadn't noticed this before but delighted me that she was so excited to finally see the world as it's been created!!

Her attitude was a little different this morning. Not an ounce of nervousness! She got dressed in her new outfit - jewelry and all, we did her hair and she cleaned her lenses really well, packed her case (so she could take them off for PE and recess - precautions and doc said it would be a good idea until she adjusts) and we discussed taking good care of them. She was so excited to get going and we think she looks great!!!

WE LOVE YOU MADDI!!

FOR ME!

2008-04-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

Since we sang this new hymn for Easter, I have been pondering its words and how deep the meaning is to me. I cannot get over how personal it is and how it really speaks to my soul. I find myself humming the tune and repeating the words in my mind throughout the week. The last line of the hymn has spoken volumes this past week when I get overwhelmed and feel I can't go on - He will take me in His arms and quiet all my fears! It brings tears to my eyes and chokes me up whenever I read that!!
-----------------------------------
Behold the wounds in Jesus’ hands,
The marks upon His side,
Then ponder who He meant to save
When on the cross He died.
We cannot see the love of God
Which saves us from the fall,
Yet know that Christ from wood and nails
Built mansions for us all.

Behold the outstretched hands our Christ,
Our Lord, who came to save,
Whose love and grace redeem our souls
And lift us from the grave.
Though bruised and battered as we stray
His guiding hands caress,
He washes and anoints with oil
Then in His arms we rest.

Behold the wounds in Jesus’ hands.
Look to your Lord and live.
He yearns to bless you with His love
And all your sins forgive.
Oh empty is the heart of man
When it is filled with sin,
Come open wide your broken heart
And let your Savior in!

Behold His wounded hands and feet!
Come touch and see and feel
The wounds and marks that you may know
His love for you is real.
Then as you fall to worship Him
And wash His feet in tears,
Your Savior takes you in His arms
And quiets all your fears.

The week is OVER!

2008-04-06T20:09:00.001-07:00

And I'm kinda glad! It's been a LOOOOOONNNGGG one! The show I music directed, Singin' in the Rain, closed last weekend and although I'm thrilled how well it was received and the sold-out houses; I'm even more thrilled it's over. It only lasted about 30 minutes with the sweet cast gift and flowers, followed by cast pics when I was thrown into the next show, The Man with the Pointed Toes. Strike started immediately after the house had exited. For those who stick around to visit, they hear drills and can watch the floor and walls come down! I only gave 2 hours this show with helping prep the sound for the next show. Then I headed to the cast party where they were playing improv games. I stuck around for a little bit but headed home around 1AM. Luckily, it was only 2 miles from home. :)

Last Sunday my Kylee gave the FHE lesson on Joseph Smith for her Faith in God. She is so close and we are working towards her getting it before school is out. She even had a display! What a great RS teacher she'll make someday! HA!

Tuesday I went to lunch with a friend (who just happens to be my VT partner). She took me to Wildflower Bread Company. YUM! I love that place but rarely go, it was so yummy and healthy for my weight watching. We had a great visit! She also gave me a HUGE jar of assorted chocolate candies! Not good for my weight but saved the day for many an insane moment this week and the times when a woman just needs chocolate to survive. :) THANK YOU ALISON!!

My birthday was Wednesday and it was nice! My friends were too good to me but unfortunately my family didn't do much. We are really cracking down on money right now (working towards an additional vehicle this month with Geoff's new shifts starting May 1) so they didn't get me anything. I was kinda disappointed that I didn't even get a homemade card but I'll survive. My friend gifts included a pedicure which I hope to redeem this week. I also got lotions, body sprays and notepads and pens and a couple of giftcards to Sonic and Paradise Bakery. A few friends and I went to lunch at Tia Rosa's, which is always yummy. Thanks gals!!

The week started with Monday and Tuesday at the theatre for tech rehearsals for the next show. I took Wednesday off - not just for my birthday but because we had too many activities with the kids. I was back on Thursday, Friday evening and from 2PM-11PM on Saturday. It's enjoyable and I love being there but I'm burnt out. Shocking, I know. I enjoy theatre much more when I'm IN a show rather than working a show. BUT the good news is that I'm splitting the show with someone so I have this week off from the theatre and don't have to go back until Apr 17th! WOO HOO!!

We had Pinewood Derby last week and although I had to be at closing weekend for Rain, I captured a few pics and the boys text me when they got home telling me of the fun they had!
Even though they didn't win, they enjoyed the fun, laughed at the "intense Dads", loved designing them with Dad and had fun working on them with Grandpa Whiting in his Little Pinewood Derby Workshop. My Dad had 5 girls and 1 boys growing up. Which only gave him 3 Pinewood Derby cars to build with my brother. He LOVES scouts and was so excited this year when the grandsons ALL asked Grandpa for help! (They collaborated 2 months ago and asked him at a Break the Fast Sunday dinner. It was sooo cute!!) This meant he could help 8 CARS this year!! He was in HEAVEN and went all out with the sandpaper and graphite he could get his hands on. They all carved, sanded and drilled with Grandpa helping them. The Dads helped but my boys remember Grandpa really enjoying himself this year!! They wanted to do well for him and were so excited to report to him today with all the boys comparing cars, awards and stories. These are the memories we will remember! NOT whether they won or not. I'm so glad my boys aren't as competitive as some and that my husband has the enjoyment of the GAME and doesn't get upset over stupid things. (There are stories to tell in this ward but I'll keep them to myself! HA!)

Today was General Conference, so I enjoyed sleeping in until 8:30AM. We actually were awakened by a neighbor telling us one of our tires looked low. We only have one car right now and it is a means to survival so we HAD to get it fixed. Geoff accepted the offer from our neighbor to drive him to Wal-mart where he bought a new tire. Afer that was fixed, we enjoyed both sessions today and had so many opportunities to teach our kids about how the church works. They enjoyed Pres. Ballards sense of humor and Pres. Monson's stories and laughs too. The talks were incredible, personal and very back to the basics. Just what we need! It was a great day! I got a lot done while we listened. I find it much easier to listen if I'm occupied, so I did dishes and mopped the floors and folded laundry. If I sit, my mind wanders on all the things I need to do. So I do them and I listen much more closely. I know - wierd. But it works for me.

This afternoon we all headed to my sister's for Break the Fast Dinner. Her husband makes the best homemade Chicago Style pizza!! YUMMY!! And a salad chocked full of different veggies! We laughed, talked and compeltely enjoyed ourselves!!

We ended the evening on a great spirit with Family Prayers and Father's Blessings for the AIMS testing this week. The kids happily went to bed and went right to sleep! Now it's time for me to hit the hay but only after I get the schedule set for the week with ballgames, teaching, dance class and recitals and work. AAAHHH!!!!! Calgon! Take me away!!!

GO VOTE!

2008-04-03T09:01:00.001-07:00

Go HERE and help out a friend while having some fun in the process.
She has a contest going on AND a survey for a school class. Go HERE and see it!!

Hoping to have some time this afternoon to blog and catch up. I'm off to change the laundry before I go walking. LATER!

GO HERE!!!! NOW! :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!

2008-04-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

I'm the big 37 this year! But I'm ok with it. A few polled last night all guessed I was in my EARLY 30's! I'll take it!!! :)

I have much to post about the past few days but haven't had the time. I will be back on the wagon this weekend. I'm off to get ready for lunch with some great friends! Yum and Fun!

Body Flex

2008-03-25T22:08:00.000-07:00

I've had a lot of people ask about Body Flex. Click HERE to read about it. I only do the Toning Exercises. They have now added a lot more to it apparently. I just like that it's quick (about 20-25 min.) and I can SEE results in SIZE - not just weight!!
They describe what I do as this: BodyFlex breathing is a specific kind of deep breathing exercise combined with isotonic (equal tension) and isometric (equal measurements) stretching positions.
I have done it for 3 weeks continuously now and I have notice my pants go down in 1 full size already!! I combine this with my walking and forcing down a breakfast and LOTS of water. Sometimes I feel like I am floating away but other times it doesn't bother me at all to drink what I do. You'd think in AZ, that we would drink more or 'desire' more water but can't say that I do. It's been taxing at times, but if I drink what is necessary - I feel a difference.

Good luck and if you are close and want to walk with me - let me know!! If I can do it - YOU can do it!!

YAHOO!

2008-03-25T13:13:00.000-07:00

Many know that I have 'given up' soda over the past 3 weeks. I decided the crap in Diet just isn't worth switching, so I just said GOODBYE! I was a DIE HARD Dr. Pepper drinker and then went to Diet Dr. Pepper but kept lurking back to the regular. Not good.
Well, after 3 days of massive headaches and being sooo tired - I'm over the hump of crap on my way to a healthier me!
I also started walking (4 miles) again (stopped with the holidays and colder weather) every day and doing the not-so-famous Body Flex from LAURIE - thank you for introducing it to me!! I started FORCING myself to eat a little breakfast which consists of a yogurt, bottle of water and Fiber One choc. chip bar.
AND . . . drumroll please . . . I've LOST 11 POUNDS IN 3 WEEKS!! YAHOO!!!!

I'm on a roll now and I'm working towards more!!

NEW Way of exercising!

2008-03-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

I stole this from KIM! I have not stopped laughing and I think I need this to teach voice from at my piano! I'd be thin in no time!! HHHHAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!

Rainy Days and Mondays always get me DOWN!

2008-03-24T12:03:00.001-07:00

I was looking forward to some solace today but alas! Two sick kids!
They did sleep most of the morning -

Oh well. I got all my blogging caught up - massive amounts of pictures. And then I wasted time taking this test from JULIE. I don't like that it says I'm a "judger" though.

I guess I'd better get a few things done though. I only have about 2 hours left and I even have a car today and I'm not taking advantage of it. Guess I'm used to just being at home and getting things done here. I did do the dishes and vacuum. And 2 loads of laundry done but only one folded. I guess I've been productive, just not out of my sweats or the house yet!

EASTER 2008 - WARNING!!! LOTS of pictures!!

2008-03-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

Baskets and Candy!

Pretty Hair - thanks to Jenn!

And loads of compliments on it too! :)

Then after church and an INCREDIBLE closing hymn (go here to read and cry!), we snuck out early to meet with the Toon Clan for Easter dinner. For the past couple of years, we have been going to the Country Club for Easter, Mother's Day, etc. No mess, someone else cooks and we get to enjoy the fun of visiting. It was a hard thing to explain to my kids about "going out" on a Sunday but we finally came to the conclusion that they just needed to know that Papa pays his fees for the club and it's included in his monthly bill, and we are spending time with family. My kids are so good about following the gospel principles, that they keep me on my toes with questions!
Heading out to go:

Fun with family:

Afterwards, we mixed up kids in cars with Bud/Jenn Toon family and headed to Geoff's dad's ofc to clean. This is how Kylee is working towards her CA Science trip - so she appreciated the help. This is what I found while they were cleaning -

The ties came off as soon as they hit the table at dinner but why is it you work sooo hard to get everyone looking their best and they tear it off before you have a chance to even enjoy it? :)

We stopped to switch back kids and intended to visit for just a bit but found ourselves playing cards and the Wii. They made forts and slides and really enjoying time with cousins that we rarely get to spend time with! My kids had a BLAST with the boys and my girls enjoyed playing with their 'older' cousin, Lauren, and being spoiled by Aunt Jenn. She fed them sweets and took them in as her own. We love their family and stayed probably past our welcome til 7PM.

Last BIG day of Spring Break!

2008-03-24T09:15:00.000-07:00

After chores were done at home, we headed to lunch at Rallys. Yummy fries!!

Then we headed to the Zoo. It was a ZOO! Took us about 15 min. to find a parking spot, only because Geoff refused to park far away and walk. He drove until he found someone loading and parked behind them until they were leaving. UG! But we got a close spot - nice!

We saw:

Giraffes, orangutans, tiger, lions, vultures, otters, monkey village, frogs (of all sorts), lemurs, baboons, etc. etc. etc.!

It was animal and fun-filled. We got home, tired and worn out, to find long-lost friends waiting to see us! (My camera died and didn't get pics but they are planning to come over sometime for dinner soon.) We visited and then I headed out to shop for Easter outfits. Geoff was tired, so I hit the town on my own. No biggie - enjoyed the time alone, since I hadn't had it ALL week! I went to Old Navy first, but couldn't find anything I liked for the girls. (Usually they get picked first then the boys match them.) Walked next door, thinking "no way am I paying for a Justice outfit for each girl this year!" but ended up buying the cutest outfits for WAY too much! Walked back to Old Navy and bought the boys navy dockers and yellow polos. Had to hit Wal-mart on the way home for some food stuff and saw these great green dress shirts. Matched well and although the boys HATE clip-on ties, they'll just have to deal and make Momma happy. All done, so I thought. Got home and Jonathan informed me that he didn't have black dress shoes that fit. WHAT? What did you wear last week? Brown, but they are WAY too big. So, back to Wal-mart to buy black dress shoes. He is now in the Mens section too!! More money for those sizes! But pleased with the outfits!

Spring Break Day 3 and 4

2008-03-20T14:42:00.000-07:00

Let's see . . . not as "fun" as the first 2 days (so say the kiddos) but busy-ish. We hung around home yesterday since I had a meeting for the Laurel Retreat. The kids played and goofed around the neighborhood. We bought the movie "Enchanted" the night before but our DVD player gave up it's ghost (after 12 years, I guess it can) so they didn't get it to watch it until yesterday, when a sweet and kind neighbor learned of our whoa and offered an extra one for us until we can budget a new one in.

After that Dad got home and we couldn't convince the 'tired boy' to go to the drive-in movies with us, so we went to dinner instead. We took the kids to Serrano's and had an impromptu birthday dinner for Miss Maddi that we haven't had time to do yet. We ordered WAY TOO MUCH food, enjoyed the goofiness of the kids and ate 3 different kinds of fried ice cream for dessert - strawberry, chocolate and honey.

On the way home we jammed out to the radio! Geoff's newest purchase is a Sirius radio and we LOVE the 80's station. All the kids know the words to this song (bad example, I know) and we sang LOUD with the windows down!! Fun times!!

Today is another lazy day in the neighborhood. Our youth in the stake left on their "Exodus Trek" this morning, so there are lots of young kids with parents (leaders) that are gone and have lots of free time to play (babysitters sending them outside). Our home has been busy with kids in and out and asking for snacks, drinks, etc. But I don't mind, it's lots of fun! I'd rather have everyone here than not know where my kids are. Kylee started her science project last night by rubbing lunch meat on her cutting sheet to leave overnight. Today she stayed home this morning to start her 'fun part', as she would describe it. We set up her "lab" and began testing her cleaning solutions to see which really clean the best. We tested Pinesol, Lysol, Dial, Clorox, rubbing alcohol and water. I wish we could've used more (like all the ones I trust in my home) to see if they all really work but she was limited to 6 because that's all the agar plates I bought. Here's a sneak peek of this joy!

The agar plates are now "baking" on a table by a window for 2 days as the bacteria grows. :) FUN!!

Tomorrow is the ZOO as a family in the morning and then shopping for Easter outfits and baskets with just Mom and Dad. YEA! Hope you are all enjoying your week!!

SPRING BREAK - DAY 1 and 2

2008-03-18T16:55:00.000-07:00

We have been busy the past couple of days! Monday morning started with my 4 mile speed walk with Julie T. We planned to go to lunch at Panda Express with the kids. We met up after getting some things done at home and ordered for the motley crew. The weather was BEAUTIFUL, so we headed to Gene Autry Park. The kids ate and played for quite a while.

Then we came home and vegged out in front of the tv and played in the "hood" til dark.

Today started again with my walk with Julie and planned another fun day together. Stopping on the way at Wendy's for lunch, we headed to Golfland for some miniature golf. We used my free passes (I had 7, so we only had to pay for a couple of kids)!We played with 8 kids, 2 adults and a baby in a stroller - 2 rounds of 18 holes! It was crazy fun and I'm sure those around us had quite the show. The kids had a blast and it filled up quite the day!!

We're home now and the kids are scattered again. I'm enjoying the quiet for just a while. Spring Break has been fun and fulfilling so far!! How about you?!?!

TAGGED: KIDS POSTS

2008-03-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

Tagged by Jenn

8 Random Things About Kylee

*Kylee loves music! She loves radio and music theatre! Playing it nice and loud when she cleans her room is her favorite pasttime.
*Kylee has great hair! She has only had it cut (significant length off) once. She keep it long and loves highlights.
*Kylee is a sweetheart and wants nothing but to be everyone's friend!
*Kylee is a great student but daydreams a lot! Sometimes these 2 get in the way of each other!
*Kylee's favorite color is salmon.
*Kylee loves to organize things. Only problem is getting her to do her own room this way!
*Kylee loves to dance! She loves learning new moves and showing them to all of us.
*Kylee wants more than anything to know all there is about the gospel and live the principles daily. She reminds us of them when we aren't living correctly!

8 Random Things About Jonathan

*Jonathan is very creative! He loves to draw and write stories!
*Jonathan is very smart! He has gotten straight A's for years.
*Jonathan's favorite color is red.
*Jonathan loves to watch and participate in sports, just like his dad.
*Jonathan is a CARBON COPY of his dad!!
*Jonathan wants to be a football player when he grows up. (Yea! Will support his parents!)
*Jonathan loves video games and is pretty good at them!
*Jonathan is a south paw (left handed for those who don't know the term).

8 Random Things About Dakota

*Dakota is very athletic! Most sports come easy to him.
*Dakota is quite the ham and keeps us giggling all the time. He loves to sing loud and funny in the morning while doing his hair!
*Dakota's favorite color is gold. (Expensive taste?)
*Dakota is short for his age and I think it's cute. :)
*Dakota has always been a flirt! He likes the girls and they like him.
*Dakota wants to be a professional baseball player when he grows up. (Yea! More supporting for parents!)
*Dakota likes to be outside no matter what the weather!
*Dakota will talk to anyone! This was frightening as a kid but as he gets older, it's nice to know he can make friends with anyone.

8 Random Things About Maddisen

*Maddi is the baby and KNOWS it!
*Maddi loves to spend time one on one with her daddy! She gets very upset if he runs an errand without her!!
*Maddi wants to be a baby doctor when she grows up. It shows when she plays so easily with babies! She will be a great babysitter!!
*Maddi will play with most anyone- no matter their age! Older, younger, doesn't matter to her.
*Maddi's favorite color is red. Her room is yellow and red!
*Maddi had hazel eyes for the first 2 years of her life. They got darker and darker and by the time she went to kindergarten they were dark brown like her siblings.
*Maddi RUNS to door whenever someone comes over. No matter who it is - she has to know.
*Maddi loves our dogs! She can be found holding one of them most of the time.

We TAG anyone who has kids they like to brag about!! :)

TAGGED: HUSBAND POST

2008-03-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Laurie.

What is your husband's name? Geoffrey Stephen Toon

How long have you been together? about 13 years

How long did you date? not long - met June 30 and were in engaged on July 11

Who eats more? it's tie - depends on the food and day

Who said I love you first? hmmm..... tough question - most likely him

Who is taller? he is by about 3-4 inches

Who has more speeding tickets? definately him!

Who is smarter? depends on the subject

Who is more sensitive? depends on the subject - he has a definate soft heart!

Who does the laundry? equally done by both - he's an angel!!

Who does the dishes? equally done by both - I'm so lucky!!!

Who pays the bills? me - he forgets until it's overdue!

Who mows the lawn? the lawn service but we both pull weeds and I plant flowers

Who drives when you are together? msst of the time he does but occasionally he's tired of driving and then I'll drive

Who is more stubborn? depends on the subject

Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? he's the silent type when he's upset so I usually admit it to smooth things over and get him talking (even when I'm not wrong)

Who's parents do you see more often? mine - we get together every Fast Sunday and holiday

Who has more siblings? me - there are 6 in my family and 4 in his

Who wears the pants in the family? um.... both of us!

Who eats more sweets? gosh - we both like them but don't dwell on them

His guilty pleasures? Dr. Pepper and flavored tootsie rolls, any sports game and horror flicks

How did you meet? Readers Digest version - I was a traveling companion for Miss Maricopa County and his parents were the Executive Directors for the Miss Arizona Pageant (Miss America system). I was there with my girl and he was there as 'slave labor' for his parents. I thought he was adorable and set my goal to talk to him by the end of the week. It worked, even though he was as shy as they came then and it took an army of about 5 people helping me to get him to break out and say hi back.

Who asked who out first? He called and asked me out for dinner and a movie

Who kissed who first? I tried. Believe me - I tried! He was determined to wait until it "felt right" and although he was a NCMO (non-committal make-out) back then, he took FOREVER to finally kiss me! So...He did!

Who proposed? we talked about getting married so non-challantly that there was never an official proposal until after we designed the ring, picked the date and started the plans. We picked up the ring and I made him ask me before he put the ring on. :) It was just 'meant to be'.

Best feature? He is just handsome! Dark hair, dark eyes, strong hands, beautiful lip shape!

Best personality trait? He is such a softie! He LOVES newborn babies and is such a 'daddy' with all he holds!

Pet names? GEE-OFF, honeybun, sweetie, hubby

Where do I see us in 15 years? gosh - our baby will be 22 yrs, so hopefully enjoying retirement TOGETHER!! We LOVE time alone and the days that he is home with me - LOVE IT!

What is my favorite thing about him? Geoff is a dreamer like myself. We love to sit around, cuddling and dream of the future (even imaginary future). We have the same goals and want nothing in life but to enjoy our kids, enjoy each other and have enough money to make it along the way. No need for frivolous things, yet we both love to spoil our kids. A day at home with each other is the best. He uses any opportunity to teach our kids a gospel or life principal. There are times I hear him teaching in a situation that I would've never seen! He is an incredible husband and father!!

I tag anyone who wishes! But let me know so I can read it!!

MIA - Missing in Action

2008-03-16T23:23:00.000-07:00

Ok. After $103.05 spent, I received the new cord the next day but have been just swamped since and haven't had time to post anything.
Let's see. Wednesday was my Maddi's 7th birthday!
We started the morning with some saranading by my boys, Jonathan and Dakota and my Kylee, along with Derek R. (neighbor who rides bikes with kids to school). They sang in ALL forms! *air guitar, backwards, opera, etc. SUPER FUNNY!!

Then we had early release, where we tagged along with Tawzers and went to McDonald's. We had a blast playing, visiting and eating! My boys are definately growing!! They each had a Big Mac combo and then shared a 10 pc nuggets and finished off with a milkshake!! CRAZY! Good thing they are active - to work it all off!! I took my camera but I didn't take it out of my purse. Geek! Oh well. We have fun plans with them this week. Promise myself now to take pics.

Friday was another day off with the hubby, Geoff. We bought another daisy tree and black metal pots. (pics to come) We enjoyed lunch together and I finished up my week of teaching before Spring Break! I had the incredible opportunity to attend a workshop on Thursday evening. I will post about that tomorrow. It was AMAZING!!

Today was church, obviously. I substituted in Primary on the piano. It was so fun to see the kids and Maddi was sung to for her birthday. She got her "birthday can" and was so excited to open it up when we got home. Lots of fun goodies in it! :)

We finished the afternoon with tacos, pudding and m&m's and a movie. Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium - cute! We bought it couple of weeks ago. The girls fell asleep during the movie. So cute to see them cuddling! We do have some peaceful moments like these!!

DUMB PUPPY!!

2008-03-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be out of commission for a bit. My new puppy decided to chew up the power cord on my laptop. (I won't mention how "Dad" left it on the floor after playing computer games last night) It doesn't work now. After $100 for the new cord, next day shipping and taxes - it should be here soon.

Until then . . . . signing off. :(

Actually thinking ahead!

2008-03-11T23:04:00.001-07:00

My sister told me about Scrappy Notes a while back when I saw her cute notepad and I just had to have one myself. So, I went online to Scrappy Notes and ordered myself a cute notepad with my kids on it.

This is the vellum cover with my kids.
You can choose from over 150 different heads with different hair styles and colors, bows, hats, etc. And you can get so many different styles - gummed, perforated, bow, no bow, etc.

This is at the bottom of each individual perforated page! Such fun!!
Kylee got the first note for her teacher off the pad. She was so excited! When I gave her the note she said, "Circle the head of me so she knows it's about me!" What a silly girl - it's HER teacher! :) But I obliged.

Then I got a brilliant idea and bought these:

I will use them for end of the year teacher gifts! Use a little fun school-themed ribbon and tie on a personalized pen and Voila! Instant great gift and personalized! Who doesn't love that!?!?! YEA for me for thinking ahead!! 2 months ahead!! WOW!

I ordered them on March 3 and they came within 1 week! And great cust. svc. too! I had ordered some others for friends (great b-day gifts!) and had misspelled someone's name. They answered the phone (sounds like just a Mom running it out of her home) and was super nice! Fixed it and no questions asked. Scrappy Notes! Check 'em out!!

Goverment workers!

2008-03-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

I'm so irate right now!

Since we have moved in the mailman has put my garbage can IN THE MIDDLE OF MY DRIVEWAY about 6 times!! Usually I am not home or teaching when he comes and don't have time to move the can from where it sits in front of the mailboxes. Well, today I had just finished teaching and went into the kitchen to fix myself some lunch and hear this loud noise out front. I walk to my front window and see the mailtruck sitting out front, the garbage can in my driveway - again!, and the mailman putting mail in the boxes. I stand at the door, apprehensive that I might lose control if I walk out there. I open the door, proceed out to get the can and say, "I JUST got home." He turns and looks at me and says, "What?" I then repeat, "I JUST got home! There is nothing I can do if I'm not home and I can't put it on the other curb because then the garbage man can't make the turn. So just deal with it!" He turns back to the mailboxes and ignores me!

IGNORES ME!! I guess I should be grateful he didn't yell back and we didn't get in an argument. And he was the better person who turned the other cheek. I walked in the door just fuming and probably way too oversensitive about it but it makes me angry that he can't just set the can aside, do his job and move on. He has to go out of his way to move into MY way, assuming I will "learn my lesson" or something. I don't think it's that hard for him to move it 2 feet rather than I move it 50 or more to a neighbors. Frustrating as it is - at least now he knows I'm upset over it. I have come home numerous times and found the can in my way so I couldn't drive in my garage. Apparently the gal who lived here previously was home all the time and pulled the can in immediately after it was emptied. I DON'T HAVE THE TIME TO DO THAT EACH WEEK!! I'm a WORKING MOM!

*BIG SIGH!!* I feel much better now. Thanks for listening!

Long Winded!?!?

2008-03-11T09:36:00.000-07:00

OH MY!! I got online today and noticed how LONG yesterdays post was!! For those who read it - BLESS YOU! I owe you a beverage (the one you probably consumed while reading it!) Well, let's hope these pics make up for it! :)

My lovely stools which I adore. Geoff has promised I can get the next 2 this week! They were expecting some this weekend. I LOVE Potato Barn and think they are pretty reasonably priced. We love their beds, couches, tables, etc. I'm not real keen on everything - especially their entertainment centers. I feel those are not as sturdy as they should be. So we purchased ours from Timberpoint Furniture. This is a fun store too! They have raw wood furniture and then you can pick out your finish. We chose this red but now we want to find a professional to paint or stain it black. Anyone know of someone who does this? We also want to paint the mantel to match.

(Don't you just love the missing door on the bottom? My kids thought it would be fun to hang on it while looking for a movie. It's being repaired. UG!)

The yard is so fun! Still have to decide on the daisy trees. What do you think? Plant in the ground or pot? I can't wait to get the pavers down so my students have a place to sit! We are growing to LOVE our little yard and enjoy the time out front with neighbors and friends! It is the prime spot for many a game of anything (baseball or football) these days!!

The carpets are done and look great! Amazing how nice it is under your feet when it's clean. Even under the couches had dirt that I could not believe!! Geoff has decided whether spotted or not - we should make this a bi-annual thing. Then it won't be so bad in between! Kinda like emptying/rotating your 55-gal water barrels around General Conf. Now we'll also clean the carpets. We'll see how long this idea lasts! But for now, we'll just lie around and enjoy the clean carpets!

Last night I went and auditioned for a show. I won't mention which one until I hear if I made it or not. :) Although I'm unsure if they found enough Asian-decent actors in the valley to cast the majority of the roles. There's your hint! They are to call in the next day or two. I'll keep you posted!

I'm tired and ready to nap but must teach a few lessons, do a few loads of laundry, etc. Oh! And figure out something for dinner. Anyone else dread this like I do? I really need to get on the ball and work on my list again. It's been 2 weeks and I can't find the time to sit and work on it. Need my menu and grocery list done!! Any volunteers? :)

Weekend Update

2008-03-10T11:27:00.000-07:00

This weekend was . . . umm . . . productive?

On Friday, Geoff was off work and so we hit the town. Well, we ran around enjoying the time together. We went to Home Depot and then Potato Barn. We found the bed we want for our room but decided to wait until we could do it all (flat screen tv, new bedding and the bay window seat we're having built, etc). So, instead we bought two of the stools I'd been eyeing for some time. They were $10 more than I'd found online but I didn't have to pay shipping and no worries if they would make it or not, in one piece.
On the way home, we stopped at Wal-mart to walk through their garden area for edging. We can't decide what to do out front. I have these great planter pods on each corner of my lot but we are on a bit of a slope. So when the sprinklers/drips go on - the water and soil run out. I hate to do too much while we are renting but hoping when we buy it we can raise the yard. But for now, we thought of putting edging. We didn't find anything we really liked that wouldn't look odd next too the rolled curb they put in. So, we just opted for some soil, flowers and and "oh well". We got home just before kids got here. It was funny to watch as the kids came in. The girls first. They noticed their magazines from Limited Too and Justice came in the mail and were on the counter. They pulled out the new stools, hopped up and proceeded to look at them without saying a word about what they were sitting on. About 20 minutes later I mentioned how did they like the stools? It was then they noticed what they had parked themselves on and oo'd and ah'd! HA!

I finished teaching at 5:30PM and after dinner was started I headed outside. The girls wanted to plant the flowers so badly. I was trying to explain to them that you have to prep it first when I realized all the flowers were moved to the lawn by the pods. So, I quickly worked to prep the corners. Added new soil and some blood and bone meal to it. With last years soil prep and this year on top, I'm hoping it will get better and better. It was not pretty when we moved in. I actually hated the corners and asked Geoff if we could just take up the edging and make it one big lawn. But after the weeks of removing the clay, rock and weeds - I love them. When there are flowers - they look gorgeous! Geoff still has to fix 2 more bubbler heads but for now, they are getting enough water and I'll help them along as needed. Well after an hour or so of working outside, I headed to, none other than, the theatre. After the show, visited with some past theater buddies who came to see the show. Arrived home to find - a mess. Unusual? Nope. I started to clean and got the "Stop it or you'll make me feel guilty - I'll do it in the morning" comments. I ignored it and proceeded to finish cleaning, insistent that I wasn't going to wake up to a messy house. He helped . . . a little. :)

The next morning I got up and did a little more cleaning on the house. I didn't have much to do since Geoff did as he promised and had vacuumed and folded some laundry and done the dishes - all before I got up! I swept and mopped the floors and put more laundry in (does this EVER go away?) and then headed outside. I prepped the other corner lot for flowers. The girls helped as we planted a few flowers before I had to teach. After 3 lessons and 2 hours later, we were back outside working. We planted most of the flowers and they were looking good. At 1:30PM I ran in and took a quick shower (love how easy and quick my hair is now!), "pur-teed" up a bit and I left again for the theatre (matinee). I returned around 5PM after stopping for more soil on the way home and an outfit from Old Navy for my church meeting. (I'm in this crappy 'tweener' size. Too fat for my old clothes but too thin for some of my newer ones. HATE IT!) I got back to planting - with my girls help. We finished up and the yard looks so much better! Geoff bought me a daisy tree and I think we're gonna get one more. We'll bookend my bench with them. Just can't decide if I bury them in the ground or plant them in a pot. Either way I'll have to water them. So, who knows. Also, depends how how hard the ground is (needs to be at least a foot deep) and how much the pots are that I like (could get rather pricey).

We showered and cleaned up for our Stake Conference Adult session. We went with our neighbors, and enjoyed the ride visiting. Afterwards we went to dinner at Red Lobster with them and another couple. Geoff and our neighbor had a bet about who could give up the "carbonated" stuff. Geoff won and they had bet dinner at Red Lobster. We felt guilty taking dinner but they insisted and we couldn't try to give them money. We'll just have to take them out sometime in return, I guess. We felt a little out of place since the other couple were long time friends of theirs and closer to them in age but we enjoyed the company and tons of laughter!

We arrived home to find the house still picked up. YEA for Jonathan who was babysitting since Kylee had a party to go to. They watched the new DVD we bought - Mr. Magorium's Magic Emporium. They said they liked it. Bedtime was after that and we hit the hay.

I had to be at the Red Mtn Instititute Bldg at 8AM for choir practice. That's just too early to sing; especially the high notes she kept throwing at me! But it was nice to have a good seat and be able to enjoy the spirit closer. Our stake is rather large (as most are here) and I would consider quite active. Unable to fit everyone into the stake center, they opt for this larger bldg. It's nice but further than I'd like to drive (even though it's still only a little over 5 miles) and I HATE having to fight my kids. Geoff dropped me off and returned home to get everyone ready. The meeting started at 10AM and was so nice! The facts shared about Pres. Monson were so fun to hear. The stories about "quickly obeying" and "It's all about ME" were enlightening. The rest hymn with all the primary kids singing I Am A Child Of God (and the adults joining in on the 4th verse) was emotional! The Temple Pres. and Matron's remarks on being better about temple attendance was encouraging. We are so blessed to live in times like these and have such wonderful leaders so near!!

After the meeting, instead of playing hide and seek with Geoff and the kids, I caught a ride home with a sister in the ward that sang in the choir. She tried to convince me, yet again, to buy the home next door to her. :) It's so hard to tell her no thank you. We love our little house but I know she is praying for a good LDS family to move in next door to her. When I got home, Geoff had left me a message saying that he and the kids went to his dad's office to clean (it's our weekly extra income - although right now Kylee is doing it for her CA school trip money). So, I had about an hour to myself. I folded yet another load of laundry and fixed myself a yummy beverage with Sonic ice!

When Geoff got home, he insisted that we get another project crossed off. So he proceeded to begin cleaning the carpets in 2 rooms. UG! I know it's not the best Sunday activity but I have to take the moments when I can and we spent a lot of time together as we went through drawers and closets in the boys and Maddi's room. Geoff came in after us and shampooed. As they dried we napped and enjoyed some "quality" time. This is where my girls sat at the counter trying to plan Maddi's birthday party, I napped on the couch with 2 puppies and Geoff sat on the floor watching the game and the boys went to the backyard to work on their Pinewood Derby cars that were ready to be painted. (Stickers and decals come tonight and this coming weekend is when the heavy stuff of weighting and graphite come in - only 2 weeks away!) Geoff and I ran to his brothers to stop and say hi. I needed to set up another appt for laser and a time for my neice to come over and have her weekly 'piano' lesson. (we pick music that she wants to learn and work on it until she gets it - teenagers!)

We visited for awhile and then headed home. After dinner, showers and talking of the weeks plans, it was prayers and bedtime. I left to get lasered. Love this! Can't wait til Fall when I can do my legs. Right now I'm doing underarms and bikini. But you can't be exposed to sun while doing it - so I don't have time to get the legs done before summer hits. I'm doing it in exchange for the above mentioned music lesson. She is really reasonably priced and I'm already seeing the difference! LOVE IT! If you live in East Mesa, contact me and I'll give you her info.

Got home late, from all the visiting we did too. Geoff and I went to bed and now it's Monday. He left for work early this morning (4:30AM) and I slept for a couple more hours. I just finished shampooing the family room and hope it dries before the kids come home from school. Looks so nice! I love a clean house!! Deep cleaned is the best but who has time to do that all the time? Not me!

My dinner is in the crock pot and I'm gonna get ready to teach in an hour. Lucky for me, I'm done early today, so we're gonna do something fun for FHE! Have a great Monday . . . well, what's left of it!!

Happy Mama!

2008-03-06T08:07:00.000-08:00

It's the age old saying . . . When mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. Well, I'd like to reverse that today and say . . .
WHEN MAMA'S HAPPY - EVERYBODY'S HAPPY!!!

After my escape from reality yesterday, I felt so rejuvenated! I don't think I'd been in quiet and solace in a LONG time. Although my weekend retreat with my hubby was nice, it wasn't the alone time that every soul needs from time to time! I got 3/4 of the way thru my 'new' book. I even burned a log in the fireplace and cuddled up on the floor with pillows and blanket to read. (I'd have taken a pic but not pretty! I was in sweats and glasses and not a stitch of purtiness to be seen!) I enjoyed 2 cans of the carbonated goodness on my Sonic ice. I ate turkey/cheese/crackers and 2 bags of my 100 calorie Oreo bags. It was delicious and oh, so relaxing! Only thing better would have been snuggling with the hubby, or sitting in a hot tub.

About 2:00PM I arose from my resting spot and proceeded to clean up the evidence of my enjoyment. I turned on my cell phone - to find 12 voice mails! (Reality hit me hard - it is this reason I dread teaching privately!) I checked the house phone, which I had on Do Not Disturb. (The BEST thing ever invented on phones these days!) Only 2 messages from my sisters about piano lessons today. I quickly returned the calls and jumped in the shower. I returned myself back into clean sweats and a sweatshirt - didn't feel like squeezing into any jeans for the remainder of the day. I blowdried my hair, minimal makeup and even put some Easter decorations out. And I finally got my flowers glued into it's pot. I purchased them some time ago and they've been sitting around waiting for me to do it. I think it turned out nicely.

Kids got home. I was happy to see them and I listened to them talk about their day. Students showed up (3 voice and 5 piano) and I didn't even mind teaching the piano thing today. I normally DREAD it - even though they are my niece and nephews. Although I am much more patient with them, I have issues with piano. Just NOT my thing. Although I know I'm a good teacher, if they don't practice - what can you do with them for 30 minutes?!?! Review what you did last week? And if they didn't practice for 2 weeks? Review again? UG! You get behind in one book and all the other books have to wait for you to catch up. Just DUMB! WAIT! I was being positive, right? Right.

Well, after I finished the bulk of my lessons (only 1 voice left), I had a 30 min. break. I used this opportunity to throw dinner on the stove and rice in the cooker. We had beef and broccoli over rice. The kids seemed to like it - "homemade Panda Express" is the comment I heard. Geoff loved all the extra rice I made - he likes it with butter and salt/pepper. YUM! I finished up the last lesson and sat to relax on the couch while the kids finished up showers, homework, etc. A knock came at the door and it was Sis. VL. She was asking if I was available to come to a meeting at 8:45PM for the Laurel Retreat. Sure! It only gave 45 min., so we quickly had Family Prayers and I gathered my things, said my goodnights with hugs and kisses and left. The meeting was very productive and emotional! These girls have no clue how much their leaders care for them and are so in tune to their needs!! I am so blessed and honored to be part of the planning and on the committee!! At 11:15PM I left the mtg (I know! Late but such fun!) and came home to a dark and quiet house!! With Geoff having to be up at 4AM, he goes to bed with the kids now. A nice but odd change for him, who usually is the night owl up til the wee hours of the night. I grabbed my purse and headed out the door to Wal-mart. Kylee reminded me that she had a field trip today and she needed lunch. I am the cool Mom and always get them a Lunchable for these kind of things. They eat it and don't waste - that's important to me. If I pack them a lunch - no can do. I also grabbed some cereal, dinner for tonight (I still have yet to get to the store long enough to get groceries! I don't have a car during the day and need to just spend 2 hours with my list and stock up. Oh well.) and some other snackage for after school and stuff. I went to the candy aisle because Geoff requested the flavored Tootsie Rolls but they didn't have any! WHAT!?!?! I guess I''m gonna have to go back to Target and get some. Sometimes Wal-mart just stinks. But I did get some Robin Eggs and that will suffice me for the time. I grabbed a pkg of Reeses' Peanut Butter Eggs for Geoff at the register. They aren't handy like the Tootsie Rolls but they'll have to do. I got home way too late and unpacked the groceries to yet again a dark and quiet house. I left the cereal on the counter for the morning and put Geoff's treat on the front seat of the van with an "I Love You" note. I took out my contacts and brushed my teeth and crawled into bed.

It was a fulfilling day and I know now that these kind of mornings are going to have to be part of my monthly ritual! No tv, no computer, no radio, nothing - just me and my book and my brain! So nice!!

The sound of silence????

2008-03-05T07:36:00.000-08:00

There are many things that distract us from enjoying a moment of quiet! I really relish when the kids head out the door to school and I can have a few moments of quiet. Life seems to come at you so fast and furious and LOUD these days! As I thought of what I was going to do today (before I have to teach this afternoon) I was craving something sweet to munch, a good carbonated drink and my new book. Curled up on the couch in a blanket (my favorite, whether it's hot or cold - must have covers!) with my "treats" and the sound of silence!

Don't get me wrong, I have my moments of sitting and listening to my kids playing - It makes me smile! But it's the overstimulation that amazes and scares me. They complain about kids being "sound saavy" but so are adults - iPods, Blackberry's, etc. etc. etc. I am just as guilty but sometimes I love to turn off the phone, turn off the tv, kids are gone at school and sit with a book. Enjoy the sound of silence!

As I searched for pictures of noise-causing items, I was again, overwhelmed with the number of items I though of! It's all around us and I don't think we can't escape it somedays. But today I'm going to attempt it! Today is that day!

Goodbye cruel world - I will return in 6 hours!

Dr. Phil - I'm a 49!

2008-03-03T19:36:00.000-08:00

Dr. Phil's Test: Here you go. Try this!

Below is Dr Phil's test . (Dr. Phil scored 55; he did this test on Oprah - she got a 38.) Some folks pay a lot of money to find this stuff out!

Read on, this is very interesting!

Don't be overly sensitive! The following is pretty accurate and it only takes 2 minutes. Take this test for yourself and see!

Answers are for who you are now --- not who you were in the past. Have pen or pencil and paper ready.

This is a real test given by the Human Relations Dept. at many of the major corporations today . It helps them get better insight concerning their em ployees and prospective employees. It's only 10 simple questions, so grab a pencil and paper, keeping track of your letter answers to each question.

Ready??

Begin.

1.When do you feel your best?

a) in the morning
b) during the afternoon and early evening
c) late at night

2. You usually walk...

a) fairly fast, with long steps
b) fairly fast, with little steps
c) less fast head up, looking the world in the face
d) less fast, head down
e) very slowly

3. When talking to people you.

a) stand with your arms folded
b) have your hands clasped
c) have one or both your hands on your hips
d) touch or push the person to whom you are talking
e) play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair

4. When relaxing, you sit with:

a) your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
b) your legs crossed
c) your legs stretched out or straight
d) one leg curled under you

5. When something really amuses you, you react with...

a) a big appreciated laugh
b) a laugh, but not a loud one
c) a quiet chuckle
d) a sheepish smile

6. When you go to a party or social gathering you...

a) make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
b) make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
c) make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed

7. You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're interrupted...

a) welcome the break
b) feel extremely irritated
c) vary between these two extremes

8. Which of the following colors do you like most?

a) Red or orange
b) black
c) yellow or light blue
d) green
e) dark blue or purple
f) white
g) brown or gray

9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before going to sleep you are...

a) stretched out on your back
b) stretched out face down on your stomach
c) on your side, slightly curled
d) with your head on one arm
e) with your head under the covers

10. You often dream that you are...

a) falling
b) fighting or struggling
c) searching for something or somebody
d) flying or floating
e) you usually have dreamless sleep
f) your dreams are always pleasant

POINTS:

1. (a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6
2. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 7 (d) 2 (e) 1
3. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 5 (d) 7 (e) 6
4. (a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 2 (d) 1
5. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 2
6. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 2
7. (a) 6 (b) 2 (c) 4
8. (a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 5 (d) 4 (e) 3 (f) 2 (g) 1
9. (a) 7 (b) 6 (c) 4 (d) 2 (e) 1
10. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 6 (f) 1
Now add up the total number of points.

RESULTS:
OVER 60 POINTS: Others see you as someone they should "handle with care." You're seen as vain, self-centered, and as one who is extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you, but don't always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involved with you.

51 TO 60 POINTS: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile, with a rather impulsive personality; a natural leader, one who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once; someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.

41 TO 50 POINTS: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical, and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.

31 TO 40 POINTS: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful & practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to the friends you do make and one who expects the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over it if that trust is ever broken .

21 TO 30 POINTS: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.

UNDER 21 POINTS: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive, someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions & who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything! They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don't exist. Some people think you're boring. Only those who know you well know that you aren't.

Early Easter

2008-03-03T10:42:00.000-08:00

My family is faithful about meeting on Fast Sunday every month. We trade off houses and enjoy dinner and dessert, celebrating whomever's birthday is in the month and the holiday. Well, it's March and Easter is early. So, we decided in order to not conflict with in-law plans and individual family plans, we would go ahead and do Easter yesterday. We met at Uncle Ben/Aunt Sherri's house and had a ham dinner. YUM! It was complete with 'funeral' potatoes, green beans and rolls. The kids played outside on their "playground" while the adults visited.

Then the Mom's hid the candy-filled eggs.

After that the kids hit the ground running, looking for eggs! Candy, candy, candy!

They checked out their loot -

Grandpa gave the girls their "magic Easter rocks" -

We enjoyed "upside-down" Kisses (there were about half the bag that were wrapped upside down!) -

And had fun watching the ck'ns and rabbits, including the new "Easter baby bunnies" -

FUN NIGHT and best part - home and in bed ON TIME! :)

Wax and Blue/Gold

2008-03-01T23:01:00.001-08:00

Thursday was a busy day! Jonathan had his Wax Musuem presentation at school. This is where they do research on a famous Arizona person and then dress up as they are, standing frozen as in the 'wax museum' until they are "chosen" and then they stand and tell about their life.
Jonathan chose PAT TILLMAN.
My boys are no doubt, sports fans. With a Dad like Geoff, they had no choice. It goes from one sport to another in our home. Season tickets are shared with family members for most every sport in the valley from pros to ASU. But Pat Tillman is talked of often, simply because of his willingness to give up his love of football for his country and eventually his life. We've talked about the sacrifice, similiar to going on a mission. So when the list came home, Jonathan jumped on his name quickly.
He did such a great job! He researched, choose what he wanted to wear, and wrote his paper titled "FOOTBALL, FAME and FREEDOM". (He chose that title all on his own!) He was excited and nervous about the Wax Museum. It was so out of his comfort zone!! He is so shy and withdrawn sometimes. We talked with him about how this was for his grade, and he said he understood. He amazed everyone and we are soooo proud of him!!

Jonathan in his 'frozen' wax pose

His poster, which he made all by himself!

Scouting. Love it! Love the program, the leaders, my boys excitement, etc. I grew up with 4 sisters and 1 brother. Although I didn't pay much attention to his scouting then, I knew he worked hard and was very active in the program. He wanted to be the most decorated and earn the most he could. It was a personal goal for himself that he set when he turned 8. Well, whether it was my brothers example (he has his shirts framed in his office) or my sweet hubby's motivation but my boys LOVE scouts and want nothing more than to work on it everyday and earn as many awards as Uncle Ben.

Thursday night I took the night off from the theatre and we headed to the Blue and Gold Banquet. For you non-scouters, this is the annual awards ceremony and a big deal for the boys. Jonathan was determined to get his Bear and as many arrows as possible. Dakota his Wolf and as many arrows as his brother. Well, they succeeded beyond what I thought capable!
We ate chinese food out of chinese boxes - that our boys delivered to us, sherbet and fortune cookies.
Jonathan was awarded his BEAR, A GOLD ARROW and 4 SILVER ARROWS!

Dakota was awarded his WOLF, A GOLD ARROW and 3 SILVER ARROWS!

They participated in the Flag Ceremony and the highlight of the evening - the Chinese Dragon.

It was fun to see where our boys were by their shoes! :)

Jonathan

Dakota
We are so proud of our scouts and thrilled they are the motivators behind most of what they do!

My LUCKY Day!

2008-02-28T10:01:00.000-08:00

I purchased these last night with CrazyMama from my favorite spot - The Dollar Spot at Target! You just can't beat 2 perfect-size-for-ice-and-one-full-can-of-soda cups! And 2 for $1? Even better! I bought 2 sets = 4 awesome and GREEN (me favorite color) cups!

THEN . . .
Went outside to get puppy and found this:

So, they may not be 4 leaf and some may call them "weeds" (which normally I might) - but today they brightened me up! Brought a smile to my face and made me happy!!!

Have a Great and LUCKY day!!!

All done.

2008-02-28T09:00:00.000-08:00

Well, the day trip to St. Johns is over. It was definately EVENTFUL but very enjoyable as well. My dad decided to leave MUCH earlier than I anticipated and was extremely impatient. Therefore my sister and I decided to leave in the early morning instead, rather than deal with his emotional state in the car for 4 hours. I can't blame him - he just lost his sister. But still. We had planned to leave between 6-6:30AM in order to have enough time to change when we got there. (I wasn't driving that far in a dress and hose! UG!) Well, time slipped and kids shuffled (trying to get them to move before I left - worried they wouldn't make it to school on time) and we finally got on the road at 7AM. That's ok - even if we made it there right on time and changed just prior, that would be ok. Well, we were making really good time when we were chatting away and realized "this doesn't look familiar". We saw a sign - Bylas!! WTH!?!?!?! We have each driven and been to St. Johns 1000's of times in our lives - as drivers and passengers. NEVER had we MISSED the turn in Globe!! UG!! 45 minutes out of the way!! So . . . turned around and drove BACK to Globe and hit the turn off 1 1/2 hrs later than we had planned! UG!! Needless to say, we sped, we laughed, we sped, we were ticked with ourselves, we sped some more. We made it from Globe to ShowLow in record time - 1 HOUR!! WOO HOO!! We'll just make it or be about 10 minutes late. No problem!!
BIG PROBLEM!!! We saw this coming towards us, going the opposite way. But as he passed us, he flipped around and the lights came on. NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!! My sister, bless her heart, had NEVER gotten a ticket in her life and here it was - on the way to my Aunt's funeral. In the words of my Aunt Karen - "Oh my hell!" He came up and asked for her license, insurance and registration. She obliged. He commented about she was going pretty fast. The conversation went as such:
Christine: "I'm sorry officer, we are trying to get to a funeral."
Officer: "Where?"
Chris: "In St. Johns."
Officer: "For who?"
Chris: "My Aunt - Karen Mineer."
Officer: "Just wait here please."
Within minutes he returned with a ticket, but he did cut us a break (so he says). Wished us a safe and slower finish of the trip, we left. Arriving in a not-so-timely manner at 11:50, the funeral had just let out. I was very disappointed but did not let my sister know. She was not doing so hot to begin with - upset about her first ticket. As we arrived, still in jeans, everyone was soo sweet and excited to see us. Cousins, aunts, uncles, relatives galore! We joined my parents in their car to follow in the processional - hearing details about the funeral as we drove. Which, I might add, was pretty cool. By law, you can't have a funeral processional on a state highway but my cousin's husband is St. Johns Police Chief (well for 2 more days -then he's retiring at 42 yrs old!) and he had the guys proceed on the main road in St. Johns to the cemetery in order to drive by Aunt Karen's house on the way. So sweet and touching! Everyone who knew her - knew that house. The door was always open and you were always welcome. I cried when I realized at that time that I had forgotten my camera! :( As we drove past her home, the recollection of memories flooded my head. I immediately asked my Dad, "What's going to happen to her door?!?!" She had a back door that all the grandkids would put their hand in paint and imprint her door with. It was covered with handprints and signatures of all her loved ones. I even have one or two hands on the door! No one knows but Dad said not to worry.
As we arrived at the cemetery, Dad walked us up to the plot and said, "Stand here - you have to see Aunt Karen's casket." I was expecting bling or something of the sort. She is always about the bling! Well, as they pulled the casket from the hearse, I started to weep! The casket was a beautiful white but all over it were paint handprints of her grandkids and kids from the night before after the funeral! It was beautiful and so sweet!! It was Aunt Karen! My cousin, Margot said that after the viewing they told the mortuary what they wanted to do and they just looked at them. Knowing Aunt Karen (it's a small town), he understood and left them alone to do what they needed.
After the dedication (by my Dad - which was beautiful and touching), we went back to the church for the luncheon. It was so fun to visit and tell stories and see family I hadn't seen in years! Some in over 20 years!!
The grandkids each shared one or two words that will help them to remember Grammy. A few of my favorites were:

*Magic Blankets - when velour blankets made their debut, she bought lots. Anything could be cured when snuggled in a 'magic blanket'!

*Ice cream for breakfast - well, only if it's rolled in crushed up Fruit Loops! Then it has nutritional value!

*Fork Cake - she loved to have a cake on the counter and in it was stuck numerous plastic forks. "Help yourselves! Just throw away your fork when you are done" Sometimes she had 2 cakes out at a time. "You never know if you want white or chocolate. Why not have both?"

I have a program from the funeral with her picture and my cousin is emailing me a copy of the pics of her casket. I'll post those together soon!

I'm back to reality now. Teaching, shows, kids, husband, house, laundry, etc. I did splurge and buy myself a new copy of Photoshop for my new laptop. When I figure out how to work it, it will loads of fun to play with. Anyone have Essentials 2? Is it worth purchasing? My copy came with a $20 off coupon for it and wondered if I should indulge. Tell me your opinions!

**UPDATE: I was not clear before but this will hopefully make sense. A phonecall came today, our cousin (the retiring Chief) cleared my sisters ticket. :) YEA!! It pays to have friends (or relatives) in the right places. He laughed and said the guy knew he had to give you a ticket but wanted not to since he knew Aunt Karen. He was happy to hear the Jim was 'taking care of it'. HA! Christine said she will forever be indebted and will not speed again! And of this - I don't doubt!**

In the words of Julie - RANDOMNESS!

2008-02-26T17:21:00.000-08:00

I've been this kick for the past couple of days. You'd think I was pregnant or something. I'm working from the inside to the outside of the house. By Friday, I'll be ready to move to my poor pathetic yard and make it pretty again. But last night we bought a carpet cleaner. We rent a RugDoctor about twice a year for a couple days each time and clean our carpets. I don't know how it gets so bad! I was told last time we had a professional clean for us, that because I like to go barefoot it makes our carpet worse. The oils in our feet (ew!) soak into the carpet and thus 'attracting' more dirt. If we would just wear socks, it would be better. Umm . . . NO! I hate things on my feet - especially socks. I totally have to be in the mood for it. I know - odd. Call me an Arizona gal! I would much rather go barefoot or wear flip flops all day, all year! Even in the rain. :)
Well, while we were shopping for the carpet cleaner - we went down the cleaning supplies aisle to get soap for it. They had this product:

I've heard of it but never tried it. You just pour it on the stain directly and then after 5 minutes, blot it up. Well, it's the best $4.72 a bottle I've ever spent!!! It's a big bottle too - 32 oz. WOW!
It made this:

Go to this in about 2 minutes:

And then go to this in about 5 minutes:

And it even smelled good. A fruity alcohol-y smell. Hard to explain but not like chemicals. YAHOO!!!

Also, I've been going to Jenn's site on Fridays to see the Girly-Do's. I have never considered myself lacking in the ability to do my girls hair. But it's been fun to see variations on what I already do and a few new ideas! Thanks Jenn! Here's the pics of Maddi's hair on Sunday when I tried something a little different than I had done before with this basic twists:

Last, but not least . . . tonight I took my boys, Maddi and hubby to get haircuts. We love us some Sonya! She is a childhood friend and the kids had a blast!! Kylee and I have been going to her but tonite was the first time the others had gone. She does such a great job and if I was the good Mom/Wife - I would have taken the camera with. Such fun visiting and story telling. Even a few "good jokes" told to us by the kids. HA!! But the highlight of the evening was when she decided she was going to wax Geoff's uni-brow (the middle section) and he almost said some choice words. HA!! He DID NOT like it and we had a GREAT and LOUD laugh on his behalf. Aw! Here is a not-so-good picture from my cell of when she asked to wax the hair from his ears and neck! HA! HA! HA! Don't tell him . . .

Well, off to bed. My sister will be here in 5 hours to pick me up to drive up north to the funeral. Check in with everyone tomorrow night!!! Have a great Wednesday!!

We're all a little wierd. . . right?!?!?!

2008-02-25T00:16:00.001-08:00

You Are 32% Weirdo

You're a little weird, but you'd be even weirder if you didn't have a few quirks.

You are just strange enough to know it, but nobody else seems to notice your weirdness.

That's because, deep down, everyone is a little freaky!

Are You A Weirdo?

Thank goodness for the truth!

2008-02-24T22:07:00.000-08:00

I'm having a hard time with reality right now. My aunt died this weekend. She's became really sick and we've expected it for the past 2 weeks but when you hear the news, it's always shocking. Well, today as I talked with siblings and my Mom about who was going, when and how everyone was getting to and from St. Johns (SMALL northern Arizona town where my Dad is from) for the funeral - it HIT me! She is my Dad's older sister and the first to go of her generation in my family. Her husband died a couple of years ago, but suddenly. She was 71 yrs old - close to the age my Grandpa was - and very ill. BUT my grandparents are all gone now, so that means my aunts/uncles AND MY PARENTS are the next generation to "go". This is NOT a comforting thing. I'm NOT ready to lose my parents! My Dad is only 65 this year and my Mom a sweet "29" (or 61, for those who are really counting), but that's not the 'young parents' I remember. I remember them when they were MY age! Which in turn, makes me OLD too!!

Although I am very grateful and blessed with the knowledge that this life is just a small portion of our existence. And although the raw and mortal feelings of losing a loved one are real and hurt, I know that I will see her again and that she is enjoying the sweet reunion with her Dad (who she lost when she was only 20) and her Mom and her life-long love (married when they were 16!), my Uncle Kelly.

My siblings and I have such sweet memories of her. We 'lovingly' called her our "Cussin' Aunt". She was a small town gal who was not active in the church for many years. We would go and visit her in the summers on the way to the Homestead. This is more for me but I find them very fun memories of her:

*She had a windchime collection on her patio that we loved to hear in the wind. And it was always windy in St. Johns. (Up between Springerville and ShowLow on the rim)
*She lived at the top of the hill and we would walk down to the Maverick and get a Vanilla Coke. We were not allowed caffeine growing up and so if we could sneak one from Aunt Karen - it was a treat. (Sorry Mom!)
*We would arrive at her home with a BIG welcome! She would start talking and the 'typical' small town cuss words would enter her conversation. My Mom, horrified, would say "Karen, please don't cuss around the kids." To which she would reply, "Oh shit, damn and hell. Now they've heard them and it won't be a surprise." When I played Kate in Kiss Me, Kate, she came to see me. If you've seen the show, the first word that I utter is Bastard! And after that I slapped the man onstage with me. Afterwards, she came up and said "I loved your first word! That's my neice is what I told your Dad. I'm so proud of you!" HA!
*She would always tell us we could hit her back porch fridge anytime for a coke or whatever was out there, "but don't touch Uncle Kelly's beer - he's not good at sharing!"
*She always cooked! Breakfast was HUGE in her home!! And there was always something brewing on the stove - Uncle Kelly made the BEST green chile! YUM!! She introduced me to The Next Best Thing to Sex cake. But she renamed it. "Sex is good, don't get me wrong. But honey, I like to call this The Next Best Thing To Robert Redford." :)She also introduced me to my CocoMotion (hot cocoa machine) which she found after she became active in the church again and gave up her coffee. My kids and I LIVE on this machine in the winters. Her home was inviting, exciting and filled with FOOD and LOVE!
*She was always on the top of the fashion and trends. It shocked me how she could, being that she had to "drive to the valley and go shopping at the MetroCenter Mall". But she was always dressed to the hilt, a high stepper and had all the latest in trends. When cell phone charms were big, she came down to see us and visit my Dad when he was in the ICU (Cancer scare) and I was showing her my charms. She pulled her cell phone out and said, "those are cute but honey you gotta get more . . like me!" She could barely lift her phone it was so covered.
*Before she started going back to church, she used to smoke. Anyone who knows me, knows that I can't stand the smell. It hurts my eyes and gives me a headache. Maybe it was just love, but she never stunk to me. I can clearly remember hugging her and smelling the tobacco and the perfume. . . still brings a smile to my face.

She always made me smile and I will truly miss her! I love my Aunt Karen Mineer and am so grateful for the truth and knowledge that I will see her again someday!!

A random tagging of sorts . . .

2008-02-22T10:11:00.000-08:00

Ok - this was HARD! You think you can come up with 7 random things, but when you think about it - random ain't easy. Either that or I'm just a predictable person. So, here's my attempt to tell you something you don't or wouldn't know about me.

The rules are as follows:

#1 Link to the person who tagged you.... Julie at Truly Delightful?!?!
#2 Post the rules on your blog.
#3 Share seven random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog.
#4 Tag seven random people at the end of your post, and include links to their blogs.
# 5 Leave a comment on their blogs so that they know they have been tagged.

So . . . here we go.
1 - My left leg is 3 1/2 inches shorter than my right. I know - wierd. I have scoliosis and was supposed to have back surgery to correct it but I was not diagnosed until I was 14yrs. By then it was very risky and it scared me. If I had been 3 degrees worse, they would have 'required' it but the drs watched it until I was 21yrs and it never worsened. So . . I am just careful about my choice in bathing suits, dresses, etc.

2 - I hate listening to the radio in the car. This is just random, in that people are amazed that I don't. I NEVER have it on if I have a choice. Maybe because I would much rather hear silence than music or talking. I hear that all day, everyday. I just want nothing to do but sit.

3 - I'd be very happy as a single woman. Don't judge too quickly! I UTTERLY love my family but I would be completely content with being alone. I would love to have a place of my own; where no one touches things I put down, I can put some ice cream in the freezer and it will be there when I go back, no one would mess up my cleanliness, I can have peace and quiet when I want and watch what I want and when I want to. I could spend my money the way I want to and have extra in the bank that won't have be spent on socks (because the boys played outside again without shoes) or posterboard (for yet another school project), etc. Maybe it's because I grew up in a large family and my 'career' is so "in your face" that I just enjoy my solitude.

4 - It really bothers me when I find out someone doesn't like me. I know we all have insecurities but if I find out - I want to fix it. I want everyone to be my friend and I want to be everyone's friend. Doesn't mean we have to be best buds but I never want to walk by someone and feel like they can't say hi or feel like they are talking behind my back sorely. I try and live so that many may say that I am a good and nice person. Sometimes I fail but I'm trying.

5 - I love my iced drinks. Everyone does but I will NEVER drink ANYTHING unless it's ON ICE. I don't care if it's even just a cold can of soda - MUST HAVE ICE! And I ALWAYS have a bag of Sonic ice in the freezer.

6 - I'm a list freak! I am like my mother in the respects of lists. I write lists for everything -
*groceries - I even have a pretyped one on my computer that I just circle what I need
*meal ideas - I have 35 meals listed with the ingredients needed - kids circle the meal they want and I know what I need to make it
*chores
*things to do
*my budget - I'm super anal about this one - have it planned out to the day for the next 3 months
*schedules - I have a Palm pilot "my brain" and I live by it. Even if something 'pops' up, I'll put it in after the fact. I always know where I was, am going or will be.
My dad walked in on my mom once with a bunch of papers on the table and asked what she was doing. She replied "making a list of my lists". That's me. List freak!

7 - I'm an avid multi-tasker! I HATE that people don't or can't do more than one thing at a time!! I will walk down the hall to do something and be thinking of all the things that I can do on the way back. Maybe it was the way I was trained in theatre. You can't just do one thing at a time in theatre. There are always lots of things to do. Geoff laughs at me because I can do 10 things at once and still hear his conversation down the hall on the phone. :) Maybe I'm nosy too. HA!

Ug. All done. Whew! Feel better now. :)
I tag:
Lene @ Embracethechaos
Laurie @ Treasure the Little Things
Danny @ Nor the Battle Too Strong
Lacey @ All You Need Is Love
Mommyx5 @ Party of 5
Lara @ Overstuffed

HAVE FUN!!!

All you have to do is ask

2008-02-22T07:32:00.000-08:00

I am not afraid to admit that I have Cricket cell phone services. I have NOT had any trouble with them and I think their services are pretty darn good. I have 3 cell phones with them and pay less than $150 a month with FREE anytime minutes (yes, I don't have to count ANY minutes), FREE long distance (again, no counting), FREE voice mail, caller ID, 3-way calling and FREE text messaging (yet again, no counting). In the words of a friend, Julie, I think this is RAD! I use my cells WAY too much to be counting any minutes and I love my texting. My students never have to worry about not reaching me and they know they can text me anytime. Puts me in the know and a "way cool teach". :)
When I added Kylee, my oldest, on the plan for Christmas, I didn't think I'd have any hassle. Just like in the past, I'd pay my bill online and voila! Well, the "idiots" they hire at their store conveniently forgot to add her and gave her a completely separate acct. Normally, wouldn't be a big deal. BUT I know have to pay 2 bills and they are due on 2 different days! Talk about inconvenient! I have to enter my payment info twice and if I pay over the phone or in a store - 2 processing fees! (I won't even attempt to include in this blog my express distaste for all the dang processing fees you get on everything these days! STUPID!) Well, today I went online to make sure I had paid my bill(s) and I had (must've forgotten). I paid them on the same day, immediately right after one another and only 1 had posted! I went to my records and got my receipt number and began the grueling process of calling the 800 number and so the process began. Why is it you call anyone these days and can't get a live person? It's all automated and if you hit the wrong number of where you want to go - start over. I hate it, but yet again - another blog, another day. After 2 attempts, being hung up on and finally hearing a human voice, I was actually excited when he answered. And to top off my morning, I could understand him. Not some foreigner with an accent so thick I needed an interpreter (another blog). He had a normal name, Jeff, and was so polite. He explained to me how their computer system is not great but my payment had posted on their system and not to worry, no fees for late, etc. I was still in good standing with them. I've been with Cricket for a LONG time, probably since they started in Arizona. I've had my share of run-ins with them but all-in-all I like their service, their coverage areas are getting better (I never drop a call) and I took it with me out of state and it worked great! I didn't even have to pay roaming charges.
Anyway, I asked said Jeff "Is there is a way to combine my billing and have them all on the same acct and all due on the same day, instead of 2 accts?" He checked and again - Voila! Done. Now why couldn't this gal at the store do it for me? Who knows? Do I care? Well, kinda. But it's done now and all I had to do is . . ask.

21st Century Woman

2008-02-21T10:48:00.000-08:00

I have been told numerous times and in different ways, all week thusfar that I was lucky to get "away" and have a "vacation". Well, I'm not sure now. The laundry is piled high from the weekend of not having any done, the bathrooms are in need of a scrub, my vacuum broke, dishes NEVER go away, I have not had time to get to the grocery store yet, and the list keeps going. I need a vacation from my vacation now!

It seems to be more work to come home than it is to leave. Worse when you take kids with, but nonetheless, daily chores are ignored while you are gone and they don't go away. They sit. Waiting for you to return. And it doesn't help that after the 'letdown' of having a much needed break, my body went into shutdown mode. I got a sinus infection and terrible cough. But Mom must prevail! Mom doesn't get a vacation. Mom has to work.

And my teaching is piled up too. I have makeups to do from the week of tech/dress rehearsals when I was cancelling left and right to be at the theatre. I have makeups from my weekend away. I can't afford to just give a discount on next months tuition and cancel the missed lessons either. The show needs my help now and so I will still be at the theatre every performance working backstage or running sound. Geoff will be there to help with the rain deck as well. Great extra money - to rid ourselves of debt this year - but so much time and little sanity.

How do women work these days? A full time job and a family?!?! It's insane! I consider myself very fortunate that I have been blessed with the talents to teach/work out of my home. And I have been truly blessed a supportive husband who allows me to work at the theatre, which I love, knowing that the extra money will help, but knowing full-well that the pay does not equal the hours put in. He says nothing because he knows I love it. I watch as televison depicts women who run a household with children, though usually only 1 or 2, and have a full-time job. HOW? There is no way to do this and be sane! How do you balance? I know many of my friends don't work and I'm envious. I would kill to be a SAHM (stay-at-home-mom) but it's not my reality. As I mentioned before, at least I can teach-at-home and still stay-at-home. I would quit the theatre but the money that comes from it has been a tremendous blessing to us. It's carried us through the past 2 years! At this point, we count on it. We need it. Or do we?

How can you balance necessity with desires? How can you balance work and home? How can you explain to your students - "excuse me, I must tend to this argument a moment" or "excuse me, they are making a mess"? I can't find the balance but my checkbook can't find a way around it.

My turn to play . . . what's in my purse?

2008-02-19T20:41:00.000-08:00

Ok - so here it is. Julie challenged us to empty it out and bare all secrets.
I LOVE my "Ugly Betty" bag. My girlfriend and I got them this past summer at Lucky. If you've ever seen the tv show - Betty carries this and wears the orange pancho. I won't go as far as the pancho but love the bag!

So . . . let's see what she can carry:

cell phone
checkbook
crossword puzzle book
small water bottle
palm pilot - otherwise known as MY BRAIN!
wallet
27 receipts from our wkend away - we did some heavy shopping at the Mills Outlets!
2 French mints - from last trip to Rustic Hutch YUMMY!
2 mechanical pencils
3 pens
4 ponytails - different colors
blue tooth earpiece
18 Sonic mints - WOW! kids haven't found these apparently!!!
B & B hand lotion - Tropical Passionfruit scent
2 - 1 oz. hand Purell hand sanitizer
3 pantiliners
4 OB tampons
blue Post-It notepad
"J" shaped post-it notepad - multicolored
Singer's Saving Grace - Extra Strength (a nasty throat spray that works!)
3 peds (snagged from Dillards shoe dept for whenever I decide to try on some shoes)
"Modest is Hottest" chapstick from LDS Bookstore
B & B Bigelow Mint Lipgloss - tinted
Stride gum - Sweet Berry (1 pc left)
Stride gum - Forever Fruit (whole pkg not opened yet)
Orbit gum - Maui Melon Mint (2 pkg - 1 not opened and 1 with over half pkg left)
Orbit gum - Sweet Mint (2 pkg - 1 not opened and 1 with only 2 pc left)
cute "sock" change purse - bought at Rustic Hutch, so cute!
4 business cards - must have fallen out of my wallet
hotel receipt from this past weekend
3 gum wrappers with ABC gum enclosed
2 purse-sized Kleenex pkgs (1 full, 1 half)
2 wet-naps
bottle of Tropical Passionfruit perfume from Bath and Body
Makeup bag (won't bore you with all the contents - just know it's lots of Lancome')
pr of earrings - silver hoops
Secret Garden script (don't ask)
Talk by Elder Uchtdorf (to study for my RS lesson this Sunday in spare moments)
envelope with students checks
$10 bill - WOO HOO!!!

That's all for now. Geez!
I thought my purse was bare and organized.
Guess we can NEVER judge a book by its cover or a "purse by its weight"!

Baby proofing my house . . . again!

2008-02-19T12:00:00.000-08:00

NO! I'm not pregnant! No! We are not adopting! (much to Geoff's dismay - who has talked of adopting since we married) We do have a new addition to the family though.

This little guy has been in the planning since we got our sweet Lady 2 years ago. I have always wanted a Shih Tsu and Geoff wanted a big lazy 'dawg'. I won! We were living at ASU East and a family - with kids! - moved in across the street. We became fast friends and spent many a day and night hanging out - movies, Wal-mart, in the street, etc. My kids were thrilled to have some friends their age move in across the street! One conversation led to another and we discovered that Julie's mom was a breeder of Shih Tsu puppies. I was determined to buy one and Geoff knew he couldn't back out now! :) We got Lady in March of 2006, just before Maddi turned 5 years old. I had always said I didn't want to 'raise' another 'kid' until my baby girl was going into school. I stuck by it and it was fate that my friends moved in just about that time.
(This is Lady at 3 months old - my fav pic of her!)
Lady has been the life and light of our lives for the past couple of years. Someone had said (not sure who, but would love to know now so I could tell them they were wrong! HA!) "You just wait. The newness will wear off and before long Lady will just fade into the background of your home." Well, she is still at the forefront and will always remain so! The kids love her, kiss her good night and play with her ALL the time. They argue who gets to hold her during movies, take her for walks, etc. They love when we take her to the groomers and she returns with cute bows in her hair too. The neighbors just adore her and all know her name. Kids come over just to say hi to Lady.

Well, we have wanted to breed too. Afraid of Lady's reaction to someone in her territory, we kept putting it off. Well, no longer. We got a boy Shih Tsu puppy this weekend and we are loving him! He is darker in color but looks as if he will be brindle with just a bit more black tipping than Lady. The kids have wanted a "Tramp" to go with our Lady but I refused. So, in honor of our neighbors puppy who died they have named him Duke. (We hope that is ok!) They really loved Duke W. who lived across the street and they think our Duke is just as playful and fun as he was. They came up with it on their own and they tell everyone that he is named after Duke W. who died. Dakota was heard saying . . . "they would've been good buddies". So sweet!

He is a handful, not like I remember Lady ever being. I'm not sure if it's because he's a boy or as with babies and toddlers, you forget how they get into EVERYTHING! Lady has not taken to him lightly. She runs from him, hides under the couch but knows that she is still the true "Lady" of the house. It will take some time but the kids, of course, are all over him. Currently Lady is on the couch next to me (she has figured out he cannot get on the couch yet) and Duke is laying on the tile sleeping. We love them both and hope that our home will return to 'normal' soon!!

Happy Valentines Day to me!

2008-02-14T23:35:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I posted - well, a whole 2 days and I promised Julie I'd post at least once a day. :) Sorry, Jules!
It's been a LONG and LATE week! The next night of rehearsal was even later and I returned home and crawled straight into bed at 4:45AM! An hour later my alarm went off for Geoff to get up for work and I just plain refused to get up. He had sweetheart prayers kneeling next to me lying in bed. Poor guy but was understanding. :) He left and instead of staying up to get breakfast and my chores done - I slept until 7am when I finally woke up the kids. They headed out the door to school at 8am and I was back in bed immediately following the door being shut. Had to wake up to teach a few lessons and head back yet again to the theatre but the adrenaline kicked and all the caffeine I'd sucked down helped too, I'm sure. I could own stock in Diet Coke this week! I was concerned about the weight I'd put on with all the soda but yahoo - I weighed myself this morning and the stress must have caught up with me. I lost 6 pounds since Saturday morning!! Let's hope I can keep it off and continue with it.
Preview night was magical and the house (term for audience) was great! They were even fine with having to wait 20 minutes for the house to open and wait for the curtain which was 20 minutes late. It was so worth the exhaustion and fear when you hear the audience gasp and oo/ah over the rain, and the humming along to the overature with the familiar tunes and the laughter, smiles and applause. My fav moment of the night was in the scene where Don Lockwood is swooning Kathy Seldon for the first true moment. He has 'set up' the scene to sing "You Were Meant For Me" to her. He began the song and just as they started to dance in the style of Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse I looked around the audience. Just below the balcony, I saw the cutest elderly couple cuddled together and she looked up into her sweethearts eyes with tears streaming down her cheeks and just smiled. He squeezed her shoulder and kissed her on the forehead. Tugged at my heart and made me smile! The audiences are eating it up and makes me happy! Worth the late nights and hard work? OH YEAH!! This is why I love the arts!!! Music truly is a language of love and speaks to the soul on so many levels!

Last night was preview and I thought we'd be out early but tech stuff kept us again 'til after 1:30AM. I came home again to a dark house and sleeping family. Geoff tries to stay up - worries about me out late - but he has to work so we've gone back to the old standby: calls before he goes to bed and I kiss him when I get home. He seems to remember the kisses on his cheek more than if I tell him I'm home. :) What a sweetie! I had a hard time getting up this morning again. Kylee had all the kids up and dressed when I was woken up by her at 7:22AM. I was worried they wouldn't make it to school on time but they did. After they left I went back to bed, yet again, leaving breakfast dishes and other chores to wait. As I headed back to bed, I went to the front room to watch the kids head out down the street on their bikes and I found this waiting for me:

Geoff and the kids picked them out for me! The girls chose the flowers and the boys the bear and chocolates! Geoff was the 'supervisor'. What a sweetie! I love getting flowers and chocolate and gifts but I hate knowing how much it costs. Geoff warned me before I did banking today that instead of using cash as he usually does, he used the debit card and not to freak when I saw how much he spent. UM . . . holy cow! Those flowers are made of pure gold! :) My sweeties take such good care of me!
Tonight was opening night and Geoff went with me. He enjoyed the show and got roped into working the show with me each night starting next weekend. He and I will work backstage and be in charge of the rain deck. Will be nice extra money and 1 1/2 hours of working together 3 nights a week. Can't pass over $1500 extra a month!?!?! Especially for only 12 hours a week. :)

Well, I have laundry to finish, floors to mop and our bed to strip in the morning and wash before we head out of town for our weekend. Better hit the hay! Oh, and grocery shopping for the house this weekend. UG! Less than 12 hours away and I'll be relaxing away!! Have a great weekend and I'll see you all back next week!

Enjoy your sweeties - even after the holiday!!

I just couldn't resist!

2008-02-12T01:47:00.000-08:00

It's now 2:45AM and I just got home about 20 minutes ago from the theatre -
LONG and frustrating rehearsal!
I couldn't sleep on account of:
too many things to do, worried about the show, fear of forgetting something, and lastly: excitement from the rain scene tonight! I took a few pics on my camera. Not the greatest quality but just had to share!
Hard to tell with the stage lights but those are not just beams of light - that's RAIN coming down on him! It was AWESOME!!!

Adam (who plays our Don Lockwood) is dreamy to look at and wonderful to hear! It's quite the spectacle!! You MUST come see this!! The tix are already sold out for the first 4 weeks - only 3 left!!

Takin' it 1 day at a time. . .

2008-02-11T12:23:00.001-08:00

It's Monday. Ug! I'm feelin' it today, too. I was up 'til 2:45AM working on tracks for the show. Luckily, the guy doing the technical end for me (I'm JUST the music director - I just tell him what I want and he does it!:)) was willing to come to me. We sat in my family room on the couch for 5 hours and worked on it. Only 1 more track to fix and then we're ready. He left with the info from me he needed and said he'd work on it this afternoon. Hopefully he'll work on it and contact me soon! My job is almost done! Whew! As soon the music is edited, recorded and loaded in the computer, SFX is loaded - my job is done! I just need to give cast vocal notes tonight and tomorrow and we Preview on Wednesday night and Open on Thursday! YAHOO!!! They are frantically working on set, movie filming and installing the "rain" today! It's going to be nuts down there with costumes, wigs and makeup tonight too! First time for the "rain floor" to be worked in and the "rain"! It is amazing what they are doing though! They have mist, rain (heated water none the less for the actors), a separate 'street' floor that rolls in (with a 30 sec scene change mind you!) and a draining system so that it doesn't puddle on the floor!! You MUST get tix for this!! It's at Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert, AZ. Runs Thurs, Fri, Sat evenings at 7:30pm and Sat. matinees at 3pm until Mar. 29th. Tix are $22 and $24. Going to be well-worth it!! You have my guarantee! Call 480-497-1181 today!!

Only 4 days to go til my weekend away! Geoff found out he has to work on Friday, which really sucks but I will just do my "Sister's Friday" and then have them drop me off at the hotel afterwards. He will drive straight there from work. I'll pack the night before as planned and put them in the van so I won't have to deal with bags. I'll walk the mall for a couple of hours alone - hit the stores I know Geoff won't want to. Then I'll check in and relax while he arrives and showers. We'll start our weekend with dinner somewhere nice. :) I just can't tell you how nice this will be! I know I've mentioned it before but NEVER more than 1 (one) night away without kids in over 12 years! Crazy!! We deserve this!!! I have to get the show open, get groceries, type up the itinerary for my niece who is babysitting, change the sheets on the bed, laundry caught up and house cleaned all before then too! Is it worth it for a weekend away?!?!? YES!!!
I wish I could take all of you with me, well - not really! But I wish you all the same relaxing weekend. I can't wait to sleep late, watch what I want on tv, not hear arguing in the background, eat out (not mac n cheese or pizza) and not ask for kids menus and go somewhere I want to eat at! Shop a little, relax in the jacuzzi a little, read my book a little, talk a lot with my hubby and just enjoy some time alone with him! To cuddle watching tv without hearing my oldest say "Ew! You two are gross!" I miss him and can't wait for some time alone!

Organization!

2008-02-08T12:57:00.000-08:00

This week has been nice and productive! Monday it rained and so Geoff came home for the day. With rain comes mud. So he also got the next 2 days off as things dried up. We tackled the kids closets while he was home. We tore out the 'ordinary' closet rod that was installed upon the build of the home, and put in something that we found at Home Depot. It gave the kids more room for storage, eliminated some dressers just cleaned up the space immensely! I'm so thrilled with the outcome!! We have done 2 out of 3 closets thusfar and we're getting faster. The first one took about 2 1/2 hours while the 2nd took only about 2 hours and that was because the measurements and shelving was more involved with 2 boys. We are hoping to finish the last one and then tackle our walk-in. That will take a little more time and planning, but will be nice in the end.

We also cleaned the garage and I went through my clothes and shoes. I don't consider myself a clothes whore but I do love nice dress up clothes (for theatre, etc.) and my mother-in-law has a passion for shoes that she occasionally shares with me as she cleans out her closet. As we cleaned the garage, I found a bag of about 20 pair of shoes that I hadn't realized I had. It took about 3 hours but after 7 black bags were filled and carted off, my closet looks so much cleaner and more precise. I'm thrilled to have it gone.

Today was "Sisters Friday". Mindy and Liz are out of state :( and Heather had a sick baby, so it was just Christine and I. We just piddled around at Rustic Hutch (she bought 2 chairs) and Michaels (VT goodies for the month) and ended up at the Dollar Store where she was buying green tissue paper for some preschool project. I was more or less just along for the ride, but enjoyed the time out from the house, the time with my sister and the great conversation! This is a great tradition we started with just lunch on birthday months, then went to every month, but now it's every other Friday. We talked today about making it every Friday and those who can make it will. It is so nice to have family close and we miss those who are not here!

This evening I got word that one of my little sisters, Mindy, has her youngest little girl in the hospital.

Mollie is such a cutie! She is having difficulties with RSV and having a hard time breathing. They are 'threatening' up to 2 wks and we all wish they lived closer in order to help her!

She has 2 other girls and I'm sure the burden of being a mom to them is weighing on her as well. We're praying for all of you!!

We got good news too! My baby sis, Liz, got an acceptance letter to one of the dental hygiene programs she applied to! YEA! She has gotten straight A's since she started college - not one B! - and is determined to get through school fast and return home to work with my brother (he's a dentist). She is dedicated and persistent! We love you Liz and are sure that you will hear from other schools too! Good luck on your interview!

Be Ye Therefore, Prepared!

2008-02-07T10:24:00.000-08:00

Well, I just found out that Romney dropped. I am not one to talk politics, it's a personal decision but the fear I feel now just hurts me! My soul aches and I'm truly concerned for the welfare of this country and my family. I guess it's now time to get my family and home in order. Who knows what lies ahead!

Romney suspending presidential bid
As recently as Super Tuesday the former Massachusetts Â governor had pledged to go all the way to the convention.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23050678/from/ET/

LOONEY TOONS

GOING PRIVATE!

. . . .whirlwind . . . WARNING! Loooong post!

Blog Stalking!!

Dear Santa - -

**YAWN**

Planting seeds in my garden . . .

Apples or Onions??

Sugar Daddy or Little Ol' Lady??? Help Google!

My Wonkavator at Ground Zero!

I've suffered enough . . .

Is it time for resolutions? ? ?

Hang on . . . here we go!!

20 Random Things about Jenn

Need some fun reading (well, I enjoyed writing it)? Here it goes:

APOLOGIES . . . please accept??

Summer Daze

Insomniacs Anonymous

HOLIDAY GRIPE

UH OH . . . .UPDATE!

Swish . . . KLUNK!

They're back!!

A kid at heart . . .

Change . . .

This is what memories are made of!

A "Plaid-tastic" Day!

Absence makes the heart grow fonder?!?!?!

Hot Tub? Bathtub? Anything??

Bittersweet!

Last night of silence . . .

To Blog or Not to Blog . . .

Simple Joys!

Shakin' it up a bit and R E S P E C T !

I'll try and make it quick ...

New temples in Arizona!

A moment to spare. . .

No free time!

New Look for Maddi!

FOR ME!

The week is OVER!

GO VOTE!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!

Body Flex

YAHOO!

NEW Way of exercising!

Rainy Days and Mondays always get me DOWN!

EASTER 2008 - WARNING!!! LOTS of pictures!!

Last BIG day of Spring Break!

Spring Break Day 3 and 4

SPRING BREAK - DAY 1 and 2

TAGGED: KIDS POSTS

TAGGED: HUSBAND POST

MIA - Missing in Action

DUMB PUPPY!!

Actually thinking ahead!

Goverment workers!

Long Winded!?!?

Weekend Update

Happy Mama!

The sound of silence????

Dr. Phil - I'm a 49!

Early Easter

Wax and Blue/Gold

My LUCKY Day!

All done.

In the words of Julie - RANDOMNESS!

We're all a little wierd. . . right?!?!?!

Thank goodness for the truth!

A random tagging of sorts . . .

All you have to do is ask

21st Century Woman

My turn to play . . . what's in my purse?

Baby proofing my house . . . again!

Happy Valentines Day to me!

I just couldn't resist!

Takin' it 1 day at a time. . .

Organization!

Be Ye Therefore, Prepared!

YAWN