Prop 8 is UPHELD by CA State Supreme Court

Just in...
Prop 8 is upheld, Marriage is between one man and one woman in the State of California.
The ruling also allows 18,000 same gender marriages to stand.
Click Here to see details at Prop 8 is Great blog.

Memorial Day

to all those who served our country and protected our freedom.

Thank you for those
who bravely face fears
we will never see,
enter lands we may never hear of,
with the mission to touch lives
and willingly go to give.

If you give a mom...

A one woman play for all the moms out there (ok, and some dads)...
If you give a mom a treat, she will eat it until the box is completely empty and she will be asking you if you have something nice to drink. As the fridge is opened, this mom will notice that it hasn't been cleaned in a while and begins to get out a rag and soapy water. After she cleans the fridge, she will notice that the sparkle is so bright because she hasn't gone grocery shopping for a few weeks and the kids are getting hungry. On her way to the grocery store, she stops by the bank to see if her grocery budget has a few dollars in it. After this is confirmed, she ventures into the grocery store. While at the grocery store she will realize she is hungry and searches for the same treat in a box that was given to her. She puts one box into her cart to return the favor and then a few more boxes...you know for the "kids" of course. At home, while putting the groceries away, she sees that the dishes have been left for her to finish. She checks the clothes in the laundry and she has time to do the dishes. She washes the dishes and starts to wonder how she can organize the playroom to it's maximum potential. The buzz of the laundry sounds and she takes the clothes that are dry and lays them on the bed in the guest room. After the clothes land, she surveys that she is the the mood to create something quick, and simple...draperies. So, she cuts in half the only remaining drapery she has. After a quick alteration and cutting 1/2 a pillow sham to act as a boarder gets stitched onto the drapery...now she remembers that the kids are probably hungry. A quick glance at the clock confirms that it is several hours past lunch time and they still don't seem missing a meal. So, with these few minutes remaining she helps to hang a curtain rod for the drapes that didn't exist a half an hour ago. Oh yes, now back to the toy room. She gives the carpets a quick cleaning and continues to donate old toys to "other little boys who need them". While she thinks about what else to donate, she starts spaghetti noodles and sauce to simmer during a trip to the boys room...who love the smell of simmering spaghetti. As the boys run past her to check out the wonderful smell of dinner, it is noticed that their pants are a little short and their look disheveled. She takes the "donation" bag with her into the boys room and opens the dresser drawers that are too full to close completely. The boys come running back to see what is happening and start explaining that they DO were these clothes all the time and they need to keep all of them. Many of the clothes have become one with the donation bag by this time and she mentions it is time to eat dinner. With the first bite, everyone starts thinking of the treats that were brought from the store today and how that would make a lovely dessert. It was a nice dinner outside on the patio, but when you take this mom to the patio, she notices that it is time to clean out the back yard and mow the lawn. Eventually the children find there way into bed and the mom becomes so tired that only her fingers will move across a keyboard to record one last memento before she goes to bed. Dreaming of the productive day.

Disclaimer: Ideas for this were taken from real life situations, not all occurring in one day. No animals or humans were injured during these stunts. And yes, this show will go on the road available to perform at family reunions, hospital bedsides or birthday parties.

Jacob makes the grade!

Jacob, congrats on your wonderful report and big presentation on Leonardo DiVinci. I never knew that he was an artist, engineer, inventor, during his time offered the most correct correct sketches of the body and he worked on many beautiful artifacts that are still studied to this day. Jacob, you earned your "A" and we are so proud of you.

Carterism

I got these "Carterisms" from a school paper, crumpled up in his backpack. This stuff is too good; gotta share:

FACTS:
-I like to ride on Bikes.
-I might play baseball.
-I like to run a lot.
-I look at the time lots of times.
-I might read lots of times.

This is Carter in a nutshell. He looks at the time because he is always wondering if it's time to play the Wii games... This stuff is way more important that the questions about the Nile that is the longest river in the world: 4,145 miles long. The Nile info was on the front side of the paper, but I prefer the Carterisms that are listed neatly on the back. Good thing you are a wonderful student shown by BOTH sides of the paper I found crumpled up in the bottom of your backpack.

My doings...

I realize that when people ask you how you are doing, it is normally done as a conversation starter. Sometimes to see which person will give in to the typical. "I'm good".

Today, I have a few things that are untypical and I am grateful for them. Today Scott and I met with the Dr. that helps us with this Fibromyalgia disease. He said that I am improving and that in the next appt I don't have to have labs. What, I had to repeat it again, no poking and bloodwork done? I'm looking forward to that. It's been a few years since I haven't had to go to a Doctor with lab results to cover. YEAH (seriously, let me hear some high fives!)

Restoration is a process. I continue to learn about how to recover from the "flair ups" and get back into some sense of normalcy without pain and fatigue calling the shots. I have been so blessed to come so far. It amazes me how many things have been restored. My balance has fully returned, my creativity is coming back with a vengeance after it's 2 year vacation. I can follow conversations and say the right word! My handwriting is becoming legible and more natural. I have an immune system that functions, this is a very wonderful thing! I can start walking with my kids around the block and know I won't be in bed the next day. The neurotoxins are gone, natural killer cells are back, my tremors are few. The thyroid is kicking it back into gear. My strength and endurance are coming and my sleep will continue to improve. With life, I can be more involved: it was difficult always sitting in the chair watching my children. I can take down the "closed" sign and open the curtains. My children have been incredible and have learned to be independent. Scott has supported me in a way that has given me courage and strength. Daily just accepting what comes. Each one of you has helped to support me and we see many miracles and lessons coming thru the clouds. I am so grateful.

I wanted to share this excitement with you. No matter if you have joys or difficulties, there are blessings to come and help restore. Restoration, what a divine gift.

Happy Birthday Momma!

Today is my little Mommy's birthday.
I wish I were there to celebrate your special day.

But, just know I'm thinking of you! I appreciate all of the help and loving support you have given me through the years. You are not an average person, you have a unique way of looking at things and helping everyone feel comfortable. I know I call a lot, but you always sound happy to hear from me...that keeps me going! I have learned from you that a mommy is a special job. You don't have a "closed" or "gone fishing" sign. You always have to be open for when a child may need your support, love, or counsel. I have a wonderful example of the importance of motherhood...you!!
I love you mommy!!

Dream Journey

Here's a picture of when you first got your bike a year ago...what is missing now? That's right, the training wheels!

Sperry I can't believe you can ride your 2 wheel bike now. You have really made some good choices and we are very happy for you. Daddy's back is very happy that he doesn't have to run along side of you holding on to your bike seat. It's a great day for change. What a wonderful thing to watch; a child learning new skills that will be used their whole life. I love that on your bike it says, "dream journey". And yes, it now has a basket on the front. Not even your brothers get a basket!! Way to go girl!

12,500 feet

WHEW!
7 1/2 hours later and Scott came in 57th for men out of 428 riders MULHOLLAND CHALLENGE RIDE
109 miles - 12,500 feet of climbing. One of the toughest events in Southern California.
Good job Babe we are super proud of you!

Happy mother's day

In honor of my mom, I did some super de-junking and organizing today. (hopefully my mom knows that I can't make things as efficient as she can). I'll sleep like a baby tonight.

In honor of my mom-in law, I was grateful to score a few of those delicious cookies she mailed. (hopefully she knows that I can't wait to open things, it's just a part of my nature).

Carter wore his Star Wars shirt yesterday. When I mentioned how good it looked on him, his reply was, "I wore it for you...for mother's day." Now, even Star Wars is in a way honoring mothers everywhere. It's the little things. Thanks family for vacuuming and washing our car. I love each of my wonderful kidlets.

One Clean Kid

Carter's baptism was wonderful. A big thank you to all those friends and family who made a wonderful support group for him. He was so happy after he was baptized, he had to stop himself from pumping his arm into the air!! His smile was even bigger than when we got a new Wii game!!

You are doing great! Don't ever forget this day and how good it feels to be clean. You are one special kid and we are grateful to have shared this wonderful day with you.

Aint no "Daisy picker"

She kicks...and kicks again. Sperry has enjoyed her first official sport SOCCER! Her dad is a wonderful coach and she does a great job of getting in the mix! Their team name, "Sharks and Minnows". That name is hard to put into a homemade cheer, but it doesn't take away from the excitement of the game.

No goalies, no score tracking...after game snacks. That's my kind of sport. Way to go little one, we are super proud of you.

Start you engines!

Congrats to our Scouts who had a successful Pinewood Derby. What I call a successful event: the boys have fun, no one gets bent out of shape, treats are provided, and good clean fun.

So, yes our Scouts had a successful Pinewood Derby. When the Derby track goes high tech with computerized timing...it takes away some of the spectator "fireworks". The Ronald Regan Library was where we had our District race... that was even more high tech with 3 screens going to post results and the sound effect of squelching tires.

Want fries with that Shake?

We were 25 minutes from the EpiCenter for the latest string of quakes that happened Saturday evening and into Sunday morning. Everything is FINE! The first was a 4.4 which Scott and I felt, but nothing fell and our kids didn't even know it was happening. Then later that evening there was a 3.1 in the same location, we slept thru this one. And then there was also a 2.5 the next morning.

IF there is an earthquake and you are in bed, pull up your covers and pull the pillow over to protect your head. If you can: drop, cover and hold on! Red Cross advises this. Find something to crawl under for cover. This is a public service announcement. You may return to regularly scheduled programs...

Like an Open Book

I've had a secret for many, many years now. I've kinda kept it a secret because many of you think I'm too: analytical and mature and grown up and too serious and old enough to know better... but, I'm a huge fan of children's books. Ok, I've said it and the secret is OUT!

Put down the books that trigger your fears. You know the books like "getting your child to behave" and the helpful tips on "how to stop messing up your kids" or "why won't my kids eat my cooking?" Instead, pick up some of these reads. Magically, your children will WANT to be by you. They will sit by you, you will laugh together and a bond will be strengthened. It is called SHARING. The dishes can wait, the phone can ring, your children and a little book will breathe some new life into Spring. I've made it easy on you newcomer's to the children series section at the library. Each has a link to Amazon and you can check it out there. Many of these books also come on CD for the times when you want someone to read to YOU.

Happy reading, no book reports required.
Click HERE for Series: Fluffy Books on Amazon. com



Click HERE for Series: Junie B. Jones on Amazon.com

Click HERE for Geronimo Stillton Series

Click HERE for
High Rise Private Eyes Series

Click HERE for Dav Pilkey books:
(but I'm not a Cpt. Udwr fan)

We will miss you Natalie

A wonderful friend recently passed away. I have already voiced all of my gratitude for this friend to my Father in Heaven. He can send my message directly to her. I miss her. You don't know how good you've got it with angel friends until you await a reunion with them. Time to learn and time to reflect and a time to heal.

We could chat for a few hours and it would seem like minutes. It was so easy to get honest and flip flop between serious and silly. We would exchange ideas on how to simplify and take life as it comes. So quickly to smile and easy to share with. Natalie, I miss you already. How many moms are crazy enough to cruise through a homemade obstacle course with a bunch of 3 & 4 yrs olds. How many friends care enough to give you a touchstone whenever needed. How many lives could be reached with your enthusiasm and love.

Your sweet family is in our prayers. Time to continue sharing your light...