Spruced up, spruce down

It's the day after Christmas, and as a "forced" holiday tradition...everything holiday get's put away and returned to the basement.  With the house feeling emptier now that the Spruce tree is boxed away, and the quick clean up (Sprucing up) that follows...I keep thinking how this year was a very memorable one for us.

With the recent move, new friends, old friends, and all the blessings we could handle, we end on a note of gratitude.  We had a wonderful and quiet Christmas Eve dinner. Of course the tradition continued with the fondue pots sputtering and the Elders (Missionaries for our Church) over for the meal. It was so delicious & I'll be posting the recipes soon. One of our Elders is originally from Taiwan and it was so cute teaching him how to eat from Sperry's "cheese and meat appetizers". Yes, the meat and a slice of cheese can go on the cracker to be eaten together. So cute! After several years of having a broken camcorder (sorry Sperry, we've missed some of your childhood), we decided to splurge and found a great deal on a new one.  Unfortunately, Christmas is a time with big stakes in learning about a new camcorder. We successfully spent most of our "movie time" looking at the computer mouse and listening to Jacob and Carter talk about a computer game. We thought it was "off", so I think we missed some of the important things that we were hoping to catch when we thought it was "on".  Our kids had eaten, downed the Santa Shakes that we make every year, and after a wonderful discussion about the signs of Jesus Christs' birth from the Bible and the Book of Mormon, they went to bed.

The next morning, we found several strands of Christmas lights had been strung leading us down the stairs and from room to room in the basement. At the top of the lights was a sign, "Follow the Light of Christ for the best presents" to help us remember what this holiday was all about.  Going from room to room, it was fun as we were lead by the lights to the next gift, opened, and moved on to the next. Ken became Barbie's new Home Teacher, a ripstick (skateboard), new wii game, and each of the kids received snow boots (a necessity out here we've found). We are grateful for miracles, memories and family. This year has flexed our faith muscles, but the Lord has supported us in unexpected ways. We are grateful for a new job Scott loves! New schools and friends that are being enjoyed by the kids, and a new warm and friendly ward.  Thank you for all the love and support you have given us. We are grateful to see what 2012 brings.

Sargent Sayings 2011

We thought you'd like to hear...some things that were said in our house this year.
Keep reading down our blog and there will be, each member of the family featured you will see.
So bundle up with a cup of hot cocoa, and read of the tales of each person you know.
"There was starlight on the hillside, And one star bent very low. Till it passed above a stable on that night so long ago. There were shepherds on the hillside on that night in Bethlehem. Heav'nly hosts appeard proclaiming joyous tidings unto them. There was Jesus in the manger, Born that night in Bethlehem. And the shepherds left the hillside, and they came to worship him." From There was Starlight on the Hillside, Christmas song.

Sperry, almost 8

Sperry loves candy, making friends, and is super funny.
Below is Sperry's Halloween assignment for school, it will give you a little idea what makes her... well, her.

My Halloween Adventure, by Sperry
I woke up very exsided because it was Halloween! It was a very, very long day at school. Finally, it was time to go trick-or-treating! First I got dressed in my costume. I was Dorothy. I got to use my mom's make-up! She let me use eye shado, maskeara, and lipstick! I even got my stuffed dog for Todo!
Next, we went trick-or-treating! Me and my brother Carter raced to each door. Ding, dong went all the doors. "Trick-oro-treat!" I said. Sometimes I said "Twick-or-tweat!"  Then, I went home with three ginomaes bowls of candy!  Last, I jumped in my bed and I slept real good. It was the best night ever!

Carter, age 10 1/2

Hopefully negotiating Labor Unions isn't in his immediate future. Carter has a big smile, cool hair, and a very creative personality. Carter's school report on "Allowance" taken directly from his backpack in November 2011.

"We must have allowance right? We need to have a fair share right?
But some moms don't always get the message really well.  Even though we need some money to rent or buy a video game our moms will always say no. That isn't really fair. So I'm going to start on my presentation about how we need money!

When you have money, it's like you can get things whenever you want. And you won't have to constantly tell mom that you need money. And if you want to get some more money then you will be glad that you can get allowance every week or every month to get money. But if you want it sooner then you will have to maybe do some chores to get money sooner. You can have a savings account to so all or some of your money can be safe in the bank instead guarding your wallet from your little brother or sister. And you can name how much you get ever month (check with your mom if it is necessary!)

So if it's exceptional to your mom to have allowance. You hit the jackpot! But if it's not, keep talking about it! That's my presentation about having the right or getting money!"

Editor's disclaimer: these opinions are shared only by the author of the report and may not represent the views of his mother

Jacob, age 12

Jacob is a big fan of BYU, friends and of course spending some quality time with his mom (still working on the last one).  He is a great artist and has a clever way of saying just the right thing.  Here's an example of  his work, a recent birthday card to his dad.

Cover of the card from Jacob to Scott

"Where your money goes"

(look inside for chart)

 note the child in rags. it cracks me up every time.
CLICK on artwork to see it larger.

Scott & Marci, typical age for wise parents

After a very crazy fast move to Colorado, our hearts are filled with gratitude for:
Faith, Family, Friends (that live in sun or snow), a great new job, teachers, and for being members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
For your gift this year, please feel free to print out the pictures below of sheet music that might help bring music to your home this Christmas season. (Don't worry,  It's copyrighted music and the owner gave permission to distribute it.) Comment to me with any problems you had while printing out the music, include your e-mail and I will send it to you personally.
Merry Christmas.

Carter's late night

As the shopping days approached, Jacob and Carter were asking if they could go with me on Black Friday. At first, the didn't want to plan their shopping trip. I kept "encouraging" them to decide on a store and plan what they wanted to get. The did a great job preparing for the trip by selling video games on Craigslist to earn cash for what they "needed".  As the countdown to shopping hours drew near, Jacob decided to hold onto his cash, but Carter wanted to go to the daddy of all black Friday stores, Best Buy. His latest "mario and sonic" game was released a few days before and he noticed that it was $15 less if he went that night. At 11:30pm (super late for him, this boy takes his sleep seriously) we ventured out and I asked him again if this is what he wanted to do. He slept on the way to the store and that power nap seemed to re-energize him. We stood in line which went completely around the building and into the parking lot next to Applebees.  Once again, I tried to tell him that it didn't look good...we might not be able to get the game since there were soooo many people and only 4 of this specific game avaliable. Also we learned that the boy just behind us in line was after the same game. It just didn't look good. But in Carter's pure optimistic view he told me, "let's do this Mom. It will work out an be fine".  Also true to Carter's form, he made some very funny remarks during our 45 minute wait to get into the store. I loved spending this time with him. We made it in, he got the game (shocker for me), and then proceeded to stand in the worlds slowest line. Mental note for shoppers: if you stay back in a dept for check out, mind that the manager checking out customers will try to sell "add on" insurance, speakers, etc. So our wait in line for 1.5 hours was all worth it when the big grin came out with Carter victorious on his quest.

Thanksgiving: food & football & fun

This year was quite a quiet Thanksgiving. We cooked the turkey on the BBQ, made rolls, and even made mashed potatoes with gravy (usually we make oven roasted potatoes). And our new employer gave everyone turkeys this year. Super nice of them isn't it?? Note the feathered headbands that Sperry made as name holders...so cute! Jacob made his soon to be world famous green Key Lime pies and of course Carter was all about the Pumpkin pies that he made. It was all delicious.

After dinner we had our big football game, girls against boys and our new neighbors joined in the fun. Scott had to become my relief QB so I could be the team photographer.

Family with nameholders. Guess whose got the flower?

Carter catches some Air on the ramp

Feasting & Family fun

the BIG game

Family: Gathered round for the festivities

Dramatic display of strength and skill in our front yard.

As much Gratitude as stars in the sky

 Last night for Family Home Evening (once a week, we do something as a family) we had a gratitude wall.

I wanted there to be a place that we can look at all week that shows us what we are made of. During the process of giving thanks, we recognize who we are. I wanted the wall to be big, bright, bold, and busy with things that we are grateful for. I bought two packs of sticky notes shaped in stars. At first I thought, they only have stickies in shapes of butterflies and stars...what am I going to do with that? I knew the boys would NOT go for the butterflies, so I bought the star shaped stickies. Abraham's promise came to mind, that his posterity would be as the stars in the sky. After that thought, I knew exactly what to do with the stars...put them all over a wall in the kitchen. Granted, there are many silly ones up there like: light switch (with an arrow pointing to a light switch), the wii, wool, potty's and funny sounds. But there are also some that read: prayer, scriptures, family, temple, food, friends, and heaven.

Carter, I'm grateful you agreed to be in a picture

This THANKS-giving, may we not only think of the things we have been given, but for the promises that are ours to earn as well.  In giving thanks for past and present, while giving our best in the future...our sense of who we are and what we can become will be as big as the stars in the sky.

Lesson in climbing and Belaying

In our adventures in our new land, Carter and Sperry were very interested in rock climbing.
Two stories of support from fingers and toes with concentration the key. While they learned about climbing, I was about parenting.

Carter's confidence and concentration

Sperry rises up

 

 

Look at her fancy footwork

Carter reaches the TOP

It's not easy to see your children work up a rock and have only a rope to support them.  I've realized my job has been changing as my children grow older and more independent. I go from the main caregiver, to a belayer. Wikipedia defines this as "A belayer controls the rope, keeping it taut and preventing long falls."

With a lot of choices in their path of life, some can be confusing that scream out for attention and distract them.  But, in the climb, the goal is to reach upward and eventually the summit.  Jacob, Carter, and Sperry, there are things to be anchored in this life. You can be happy no matter the storms that come to challenge you.  There are principles that will bring happiness and security. I've found that the teachings of Jesus Christ to be one that has anchored my soul. It has helped me to climb farther than I thought, have confidence in what I'm doing, peace that is achieve in no other way, and recovery if I slip or fall. You are able to do great things. I see great things for each of  you. As a belayer stays on the ground to steady and support, they also have a view of what lies ahead. I love you and am grateful to help lift while you find firm footing.

Elder Jeffery R. Holland has stated, "I believe we have all been created for greater things that we can comprehend. The times call for great things, but great things in the noblest and most redemptive sense are predicated upon tolerance, love, respect, understanding, dignity, prayer God.  When you are confronted with challenges that are difficult to conquer or you have questions arise, the answers to which you do not know, hold fast to the things you do know. Hang on to your firmest foundation, however limited that may be, and from that position of strength face the unknown."

R U tough enough?

This morning, I saw the sun was up and bright, it didn't snow like the forecast forecast-ed, and Scott was ready to get on his bike commute to work.  So when the kids asked if we could ride bikes to school, I said "sure".  Little did I know we should always check the outside temperature, it was about 30* way too chilly for me to be on a bike.  My kids were in shorts and we were very unprepared for the mile ride to the school. Poor Sperry's knees were red and Carter just booked it onto school. Carter was smart enough to wear ski gloves, his new poof coat (that I bought yesterday since we only had thick jackets prior to the purchase).  Sperry and I kept things light, jackets and light gloves...yes and she was in shorts.  Reality check, like you'd think I'd have it down by now...it gets cold out here.  On my way home, I called Jacob and told him that it's way too cold for him to ride his bike.  When I arrived home, Jacob had on his poof coat, ski gloves, and was in jeans. He told me that it's been that cold for several days and he's ridden in cold before.  Once again, he's got it handled.  I guess the girls of our family are still California Dreaming on such a winter's day... but then again, out here I get to see very pretty sunsets. Here's one I snapped at a spotlight.

Life's Marathon

 I heard this wonderful memoir this morning on one of my favorite things: NPR Story Corps.
The narrative is about a woman who as a side effect after her brain surgery to remove a tumor, suffers from short term memory loss. This moved me to tears...Each one of us have experiences that we have learned to adapt within. I love how she asked her boyfriend to not read the mile markers during the run of their first marathon together. He kept telling her that they had been running 10 minutes or so. She tearfully finished the marathon and was so happy to see that her strategy worked.

Think of the strategy's that will work for you. Don't measure things in what you used to do, measure them in the joy you have now. There are a lot of mile markers in life that we need not be focused on. Just take things 10 minutes at a time.

cLicK hErE to launch story:

To hear more, StoryCorps click on the box above (and another favorite story, search on their site under "korban".  It's a story that you will never forget, truly amazing.

oh yeah, Halloween

What does Dorothy, a Skier, and a Taco delivery guy have in common?

 This year for halloween, it seems to be taking on traditions of their own. Sperry has a cute costume that someone has given us. And she agrees to wear it for several years (her ruby slippers almost fit here during year 2). And Jacob and Carter...well that's another story.
Several years ago, I went all out for Halloween. I broke my budgeted amounts for costumes and got a cool Narnia costume for Jacob and a Ninja costume for Carter. These costumes were awesome and somehow I justified that it would be worth the extra dollars spent because my boys would spend hours dressing up and playing in these costumes. Well, by the time Halloween came around, the boys had changed their minds with what their costumes were to be. I told them that they had to go and wear their Original plan. They did, but since then, we have the agreement that they can pick whatever costume they want, minimal effort, minimal cash request, and it might be something that comes together as you walk out the door for a night of trick or treating. So, to answer the above question: What does Dorothy, a Skier, and a taco delivery guy have in common? A happy mom who has low stress holidays and appreciates her kids creative style. Thanks Grammie Sue for joining us this year. We loved having you here.

Loving Tribute to Greg

Gregory Louis Goheen,
Join us in celebrating the life and times of  Gregory Louis Goheen June 19, 1971 – October 7, 2011.
Loving son of Penny Buchan and Frank and Stella Goheen. Dre’s amazing boyfriend and husband. And to their children, he will always be Gabriel’s (7) best friend,and Jordan’s (6) nail painter. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 15, at 10:30 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 8267 Deseret Ave, Fair Oaks, CA 95628.

He is my brother in law and today I have to share my heart about him, his cute and heroic little family, and the things I have learned from them.  My sister Andrea met Greg and we all just thought, "Hey this guy can handle this spicy gal."  I was impressed right from the get go.  Greg's the strong silent type, he speaks when he needs to. And when he shares, you will want to listen. He and Andrea are such a great match for each other. They both loved to cook, and I'm talking gourmet cooking.  They put me to shame (but I happily ate everything they made).

Greg, you learned how to get answers from God. You were baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and held the Priesthood. I am so grateful that I was there to witness your baptism. Even during that time, your body was often in too much pain to bear. When you were baptized, it took both my brothers, Quinn and Aaron to help you lower your body for complete immersion. That day you taught me that you will find a way to do the difficult to achieve something you want.

I could relate to you because you had chronic pain (much greater than mine). You were learning how to adjust to the things you could do, and not doing all that you wanted to do.  But somehow through it all you remained a powerful presence in your family. Your kids adore you, and always will.  Andy always found strength through your support. I have learned that even when you are complete with your work here on the earth, you remain a powerful influence in the lives of your family.  Somehow once again you will be given errands to support your wife and children as they forge ahead with heavy hearts, missing you.  I have never seen so much strength in my sister Andy.  I know she will continue to feel of your love and support.  You are missed.  I am still so surprised of your passing. Thank you for teaching me how to love and support others during the physical roller coaster.  You have completed the things you had to do here on this earth, and  have been joined by those who love you and have already passed.  Thank you for being a part of our family.

Some were asking me how to donate helping this sweet family.  Donations can be made to
Schools Financial Credit Union phone: 916-569-5400 on 6000 Main Avenue Orangevale, CA 95662 ACCOUNT: Andrea Goheen. Or if you'd rather send something directly, post a response and I can e-mail you her address.  Life gives us a little more gratitude when we see time as a gift.

Waiting game...chapter eight

Once again it's snowing here. These storms have dropped over 12" during a 12 hour period. I see the trees on our yard that are loaded with leaves, and the additional snow has brought some of them to their breaking point.  Some days, I feel a lot like those trees: not shedding leaves from the previous season, moving quickly into another season, feeling a little caught off guard, or unprepared.  During these times, I get weighed down in the "heavy weight" of small things. I worry about my house not selling, it's been a little over 2 months without a written offer.  Every once in a while, my branches heavy with worry and stress.

Even during these times, I allow one day of "heavy snow" and the next day I forge ahead, finding courage and daring the sun to come. Even out here in Colorado, after each deep snowfall, the sun has appeared the next day helping the branches to wear their new load with beauty. I have found comfort and peace during our little storm season and realize it is only a test to remain faithful when I see no end in sight.  We have been promised that all will work out, not to worry, and to write of this experience.  I can't have my writings complete without sharing the days of deep snowfall. Even on these days, there are things that help to sustain.  A husband who is a whiz at numbers and helps me to understand how long we can sustain financially cost of two homes.  Kids who are amazing during this time of forgoing allowances (albeit small) and realizing on their own how they can contribute. Friends who will listen to my complains. And prayers and times to be humbled while we watch for our miracle. Being still and knowing that God is there for each of us. It's just the season for snow; even in winter the sun shines brightly.

to the rescue...chapter seven

Here we are at chapter 7. Are you getting sick of all the details now?
We were happy to be in our new house, new area, new friends to make.  I had to get out of boxes!! I've got a little problem when I'm not organized, I feel really unsettled. So I put all my adrenaline to good use and all the strength I had been blessed with and set up shop! But it doesn't mean that a girl can go without her little mommy. I asked my mom who is queen of organizing and settling to come and help me out. She and my brother Quinn made a weekend road trip out of it and came out for a visit.

They were great sports as I had them clean out yucky mold out of our extra fridge, organize my first ever pantry. Wow, those things are cool!! And help me get my first ever laundry room inside my home in ship shape. Thanks guys for all the help. I loved having you guys out here. Next time I won't work you so much.

We continue to wait for our perfect buyer. And as I wait I figure I might as well "pay myself" to be patient. I am not going out and buying all my dream furniture...but I can look, right?  I call it "Dream Bucks" you can plan all you want, and don't actually have to pay for till later.  I've got to remember all that I do have. All the kids are settled in school, Scott loves his job, and I have to admit this place is really growing on me.  It's beautiful here, all the untouched protected areas add to the "wilderness" element I love. We have the perfect kid neighborhood with all the kids congregating to spontaneously play in the streets. I'm still getting used to the idea of kids playing in the neighborhood, unscheduled. And they run happy!  I've even been riding bikes with the kids to drop them off at their school. I love all the paths that cut behind the houses to the pond and take us directly to the Elementary school.  Jacob straps his trumpet case to the back carrier on his bike and sets out on his 3 mile one way trip to the middle school.  Pretty impressive, right?

Our house has had some interest, but come on...I can't drop my price that much! The talk hasn't been reasonable. So, I will focus on my family and home here until the right family is found that wants to buy my house there.  More patience please, with a side of smiles. 

Goings on...

I've got a full mind, so of course instead of calling up everyone...I decided to call a special meeting on my blog to blurt out all the goings on.  There have been things that are changing, children growing up, home sales not moving, surprising funeral to attend, hearts to heal, and watching things work their way out that I can't control. It's been good.

I must start out with the wonderful news that will embarrass my pre-teen. He's the one in the BYU t-shirt with a big smile.  Jacob has turned 12 years old and around here...that is VERY big news.  He's much more calm and collected than I am. He handles himself "cool" under pressure, and likes to be independent. My favorite statement from him "I GOT this mom, you don't need to be over protective".  This past Sunday was a memorable one.  It was his 12th birthday and a few nights before, he had invited several new friends (who are also "cool") to do a little bowling and pizza. I was amazed that when I told him that his younger brother and sister would be joining the bowling crew, he was fine with that.  Believe me, I wish I could take credit for the lessons he has learned. We had a great time bowling and seeing him interact with his new friends. Then, Sunday was our ward Primary program.  I mentioned to Jacob a few weeks ago that he's in Primary, until he's out of Primary. So since the primary program occurred on his birthday...he got to be involved one more time.  He has "got" this one covered too and handled his part with grace and poise. He was able to be ordained to the office of a Deacon who holds the Aaronic Priesthood (the Power of God given to worthy men).  I'm so proud of him and am grateful to be learning from him.  Jacob, you have got "this, that, and the other".

Sperry on the loose!

Our little Sperry girl is someone I have to write about. This girl is on the loose I tell you.
She is very cute, friendly, smart, happy, and talented. Did you know she has been waiting for her baby teeth to fall out? She has been waiting since the first day of  kindergarten.  I guess it just took moving to a place where the air gets a chilly fall morning. Yesterday she found one bottom tooth was loose, and she is so excited. She has been giving it a work out and cant wait to trade a tooth for some cash!

Oh, and this is the same girl who after a long meeting with the Bishop of our church...thought the "old" phone in the hall of our church was so funny with the big receiver and the long cord. She was playing on it and then quickly sat down quietly.  I asked her what number she just dialed. She told me, "911, mom I didn't know it would call. There's no "talk" button like on our phone at home." I had to calmly tell her that if the fire department thinks this is an emergency, all the people who are in the chapel for church will have to leave the building and go outside. That's several hundred people we are talking about. Big Sigh. Fortunately for us, the nice man called back and I explained that it was not an emergency, just our daughter playing on the phone. Scott and I couldn't laugh about this for about a week. And, Sperry has been on doggie do-do duty for the  next 2 weeks.

But then again, this is the same girl who has a really cool bedroom. The most comfy bed in the house (thanks friends!) and is getting super great grades. She is our most avid love-note writer and always is one to cheer up the sad and make someone feel glad. I'm so glad she is our Chica and is quick to make good friends. And, I'm hoping that she has learned her lessons about emergencies. (Does this type of stuff always have to happen to us?)
Sperry Specs:
age 7 1/2
Favorite sport: soccer
Favorite books: Judy Moody
Favorite Food: Mac n' Cheese
Working on: keeping her room clean
Favorite dessert: candy & ice cream
Special talent: painting, making friends, thoughtful. She is a very good reader and tries to be a good friend to everyone.

And here's her little snowman. Can you see the smiley face? 

motionsickness...chapter six

moving saga continues...
Motion sickness is something that I get all the time. I get sick on a plane unless I have earplugs to help my equilibrium. I get sick riding in a car and looking at a map.  And of course, I can get sick going through experiences so quickly that it makes my head swim. Yes, I was getting motion sickness following all the details in such a short period of time. For example, our house hunting trip.

During our house hunting trip, I could not have planned it any better. I kept feeling like I needed to stay thru Thursday in Denver. My mom kept assuring me that it will be fine and the kids will love a few more days with their cousins. I wondered, "do I need a little alone time? Why would I set my flight for 2 days after Scott returns to LAX?"  I felt I was being pushed to stay a few days to learn the streets and find a route to the kids schools and to get started on the paperwork.  I'm glad that I stayed because I needed to be present to help with the counter offer, I was able to visit both schools, and got the car insurance all tucked away.  Our offer was accepted, we would be renting from them until our home sold (we could rent thru January). I had an address I could start putting on all my paperwork. I had a new floor plan that I loved and got to figure out where furniture would go. I felt really good as I flew back to pick up my kids in Utah.  I spent the night at my mom's and then early, early the next morning we started our drive back to Cali. We had to get them ready for school (or at least 6 days of school).

We promised our kids that if they read the Book of Mormon this year, we would take them to Knott's Berry Farm. Sperry had to read 100 pages, not the whole book. And, I prefer the words, "earn" instead of bribery. But either way, I hoped it would help them to get into the habit of daily reading from a book that can change lives. If it took a trip to Knott's for them to deepen their  testimony, I thought it was a good investment (and a good way to release some pressure we've been feeling and kick back...scream a little, and enjoy the day). Who knew that I was the biggest whimp of the family. The coaxed me into going on one minor roller coaster while Sperry was the biggest thrill seeker of the group. While we were playing, we talked about how many families were going through our house and all the realtor cards we would come home to as proof.

No cards! When we returned home, we found that no one had come while we were gone to look at the house. I freaked out again because I wanted our house to sell quickly, as in my time "one weekend". But I have learned that the Lord's promises are sure and I need to be patient. I don't like being patient, I like to get in there and get 'er done. But it became obvious that we were to focus all our time on getting the house ready, pack up our gear and move on out. And we had to have at least one trip to my favorite beach to watch the kids boogey board, build sandcastles, and get my head to stop swimming.

Two weeks later, we left our house empty, vacant, family-less...this is not what I wanted to do. But we decided that we were to move as a family. We didn't want Scott try working during the week, and flying home to LA every weekend. So we left our home, and took our family to a new adventure in Colorado. Our offer had been accepted, and the Labor Day deadline fell right into place.

Mental note, pack the sleeping bags and pillows when you embark on your roadtrip to your new home. You will need them as wait not so patiently for your new home. Living in an empty house for 5 days till the stuff arrived. I still can't wear the 3 outfits that were the only ones I packed. They got a lot of wearing during our trip and move in days.  When the moving truck came, the kids were already in school, Scott had been at his new job for days, and I was ecstatic to dive in an empty boxes!

not the house, but the street...chapter five

We arrive into Denver and have Monday and Tuesday to make something happen.  Scott and I ask Matt, our Colorado realtor to widen our search to additional towns. I had spent hours upon hours before the trip looking on the internet and was feeling a little dejected because I didn't see a lot of new listings since our last trip two weeks prior.  We spend Monday looking at several properties in surrounding areas. We increase the search to include 2 floor homes, but at the end of the day, my body was dragging and I was concerned that two floors wouldn't work for me.  None of them feel as a fit for us. Some of the homes, I didn't want to spend any time inside, because I felt strongly it wouldn't work. (and one belonged to a cat lady and the allergies started to kick in.)

One of our agreed conditions of the home was that we didn't want an older home that had more maintenance associated with it. And, wouldn't you know that Scott started to feel really good about an older home that would cost significantly less than what we were planning to spend. The dollar signs started to light up in his eyes and yes, the backyard was wonderful. But I had to remind him of our plan and lovingly explained the things we would have to do in this home to get it to feel nice and newer.  Then, it was my turn to get a little "struck".  I wanted a home that was mostly white and super nice condition. It was one story, but it was more of a grandparents home because the backyard was 95% flagstone patio. It was really pretty, but Scott nudged me into the right direction again.

I'm getting a little frustrated because we are down one day and have a second day to find a place for our family to live in a few weeks.  We asked Matt to set appts to see homes on Tuesday and he talks about the other home in the same cul-de-sac of the home we were going to put an offer on.  We continue to widen our search in surrounding cities for Tuesday.

The home that Matt mentioned, was one that we saw on the first visit. It was cute and I loved the curb appeal and the main floor and I was impressed with it during our first trip out. It had a finished basement, but had only one guest room in the basement (the other had 2 big bedrooms). But, we couldn't get over that it would be right by the other house we would have put an offer on.  We didn't know if we could get over loosing that house we planned to purchase.  Late Monday night, while Scott and I were discussing how the day went, Scott mentioned "maybe the impression that you had wasn't for that specific house, but it was about the street? I think we should go into that home again and see how it feels."

We finally agreed to see this home again at the end of searching on Tuesday. Tuesday, we looked at the edge of our $$ range, and still the houses didn't seem to be working. We like comfortable and easy, and many of the homes seemed a little too fancy, or had 2 floors. A few of the homes would have worked, but something didn't click.  At the end of Tuesday's looking, we went back to the street that we loved, and to the neighboring house we thought to place an offer on.  When  we entered the home, we both felt really comfortable about moving our family there.  It was an amazing feeling to see how things would work, how we could set up the basement so it would fit our family, and even where the dog would go.  It felt exciting and just fell into place. It was like an answer to our prayers.  That night, we prepared a contingent offer and asked if they would rent to us beginning in two weeks.

as a miracle...chapter four

(wow, this is a long story. but bear with me, it's a part of our family history. and if you are just joining us, please begin at chapter one)

In the prayer mentioned earlier, it was promised  (and this part still makes me nervous, but I'll share it with you anyway) that our house would sell quickly and it would be as a miracle to our family. It would manifest to our children that the Lord is mindful of them. With this prayer in mind, we began our long list of "house to-do's" before we could have it listed. We had one week to get it all ready and it was a nail bitter, but we had so many people helping us, I couldn't believe it all came together.  My friend Jan surprised me on a day that I was overwhelmed to tears.  She told me, "we are coming, because we love you."  I still cry writing this now.  She had asked several sisters to drop their plans and serve our family for whatever hours they could spare, doing the ever super fun, manual labor.  Shelly planted flowers and  helped with my scrape project, Cathy and Corinne I literally sent packing starting with specific rooms, Tarja gave me some scrubbing elbow grease, Jan cleaned carpets, Barbara got her inner karate kid and helped me paint our wrought iron fencing, Shellie and her husband helped weed and plant flowers in our "vacant for years" rounder. And there were many more in the behind the scenes work lending prayers, emotional support. I felt what "relief" felt like. It quickly made the load feel bearable, and I appreciated it so much. During this "rush to market" my kids lived as vagabonds. They made their own breakfast, lunch, found things to do watched TV.  Each morning they were mandated to participate in a big home improvement project each day.  Sperry even practiced on our old gate, hammering in nails and painting. They rarely complained, and were hard workers. Scott even got our local Missionaries to serve us by painting and attacking some ivy. Thank you to everyone (and there are so many more I didn't have room to mention).

Two weeks after our "interview" visit, we decided to do another trip to Colorado to find a house. My plan was to take the kids to Utah and attend my nephew JC's wedding to Jordan.  It was an awesome wedding and so fun to see everyone. My sis, Kris handled the "mother of the groom" title with grace. After the wedding, I left the kids with grandma's and cousins (they had a great time and didn't even miss me). Thanks everyone, it was a group effort and you guys are lifesavers.

When we were with a realtor, there was a neighborhood that felt good to us.  There was a house that we loved, mostly because it had a finished basement and a yard big enough for a trampoline. In preparing for our house hunting trip, I felt the impression "I've shown you where, now make it happen."  Scott agreed and we planned on going out to put an offer on this home, contingent on the sale of our Cali home...oh yeah and we would need them to be ok with us renting their house till our house sold.  Tall order, but we thought it could be done. The plan was for me to fly out from SLC Sunday night and return Thurs afternoon. My goal: have a house under contract (escrow), an idea of insurance stuff and visit the would be elementary school and middle school.  A few days before I flew out, the home that we saw and were planning to put an offer on had been...shockingly taken off the market. What happened? Why would we have felt so good about this area, only to have this home taken. I started to question things. Maybe we shouldn't even be going out again this soon. Maybe we should put the time frame later to allow more time for additional homes to come on the market in Colorado.  Maybe we should cancel this trip, and get the kids ready for school.  If we kept to our original plan, the kids and I would return from Utah 5 days before school started, and I had not purchased one pencil to prepare them.

Scott calmly mentioned that he felt we should go forward with our plans.  Good thing I love this guy, cause I was ready to cancel the trip.  I flew out from SLC and Scott flew from LAX (in Sunday, and he was to return Tuesday afternoon.) for our house hunting trip.

Come as you are...chapter three

(this is chapter three, for newbies...seek for chapter one first)
The day after the interview, we set up a day with a Colorado Realtor, Matt. Our fab friends the Cox family watched our kids for the day as Scott and I went in about 7 houses. It was a quick pace, which was becoming the norm for everything about this move. During our interview visit, we wanted to get an idea of areas that would be a fit for our family.

Our criteria for a home included: keep it in the budget, a ranch style home, family friendly neighborhood, newer than our Cali home, basement for the kids to kick it in, AND close to schools and shopping. Actually, each of these were on my list, Scott's list was more like, "I want to be able to ride my bike into work and keep it within 30 miles of work."  Now that doesn't sound like a lot of things to meet, and during that first look, we found a few homes we really liked. There was a neighborhood that stood out a little more than the rest. We didn't know it yet, but the Lord was working on us. (thank goodness).

We retrieved our kids from the Cox party house and on Sunday we visited the ward that belonged to that neighborhood we liked.  The ward blew us away. It was big...like 150 kids in Primary.  There were several friendly people and it was a congregation that has a mix of kids between teenagers to babies. After recovering from the initial shock of the sheer numbers, I liked it.

We flew back to LAX and had some good laughs about the contrast between LAX and the Denver airport. It's like going from the masses to "many". It felt like it would be an easy transition going to Denver in the "commute" department at least.

Scott and I started to do the math: finding a home, getting our home sold, school starts within a week, and oh yeah, our callings that we liked. I had just been called the month before as Relief Society President (In our church, this is working with women: humanitarian efforts, Sunday lessons, building spiritual strength, and remaining sane as we balance it all).  I really was enjoying serving as Relief Society President, I was learning a lot and we were cruising. There were so many things that we were working on and it was fun. I had to tell our Bishop that we had to keep things on the down low, but that we would be moving and it looks like I was to serve as President for a record breaking, brief 2 months.  But, if the Lord calls your family to another area, you follow His lead.

I was a little overwhelmed, and we contacted our realtor who has the biggest heart, Lea Stevens.  Lea was our go-to realtor and a part of our family.  We asked her to help us with each of our moves, this would be our 3rd time working together and we knew we were in good hands.  After listing our home, we had to decide how we would manage the move. Would Scott commute from CO till our house sold? Do I stay with the kids till after the first semester of school (and I could get some extra bond time with all my gal pals)? What if the house isn't in escrow before we have to move? What if we don't find a house in Colorado?  Once again, we turned to the  Lord  in prayer. We felt we were to come as we are, a family.  We were all to move together and felt that Labor Day weekend would be the big commute day. Even when that was only weeks away.

6MOV843...chapter two

Sorry, you might want to read chapter one first (scroll down) if you are a chronological person.

During our "no strings attached" trip to Colorado, we were taken with the beauty of the area. It's so pretty out here, I've seen more rain and lightning out here than I do in a year in California. It all started when we landed in at the Denver airport. The rental car we were assigned had California plates, the only Cali plates we saw on the lot. Our car's license plates read: "6MOV843"  What, we are a family of 6 (as long as the kids insist on keeping our dog.) And the letters "mov", well putting in context of the purpose of our trip...I thought it was so funny that it read "move". Now for the 8 in the plate, I can't make up any relevance. But the 43 were some of the house numbers we looked at (and live in, 14300) more about this later.


We asked our family to be prayerful during this trip. To see if we were to make a change, of everything. Once again prayers were answered unexpectedly, but clear. Turn by turn, in and out of neighborhoods, I was driving around without a map and with the kids in tow during Scott's interview.  While I was driving I had another impression come to mind, "this is where you will land." That thought brought a lot of peace and broke through the "what are we...crazy. To even consider this job that came out of the blue." thoughts. I felt happy, at peace, and considered how my kids would react to their new "hometown". The kids were so excited to talk about snow, skiing, and a new adventure, it took me by surprise. It was welcomed news and once again, peace came.

Later at dinner that night, Scott was excitedly talking of the possibility of working with this new company, Barber Nichols. He loved the projects they were working on, how he would be able to wear different hats in his responsibilities. And, the people, he couldn't wait to get to know the people who were so friendly and comfortable to talk with. The company is much smaller than the one we have been with for over 13 years. They employ 75 people and want to keep it small, private, and personal. Scott longed for less red tape in his current job, but he loved the people he worked with. This was going to be hard to leave all those friends who have taken care of us for so long. A family from Barber Nichols invited our family for dinner that night and they graciously answered all of our questions.

Scott called the new company, Barber Nichols, and accepted the job. He was to begin work in 3 weeks. We had no idea how much work was in store for us making it all happen.

One Month...chapter one

If you had ONE month to: interview with a new company, accept a new job, go house hunting in another state, find schools for your kids, leave a wonderful ward family, fix up your house, put your home on the market, work with 2 realtors, go to your nephew JC's wedding in Utah, and pack up all your belongings to move...would you do it?
If you would have asked me this early July 2011, I would have said there's no way. But then again, I had no idea what was in store for us this summer. It has been quite an adventure, and I'll give you some of the details. Because, I always like the details.

It all began when our family was happily comfortable with our schools, Scott's job, our friends and the So Cal lifestyle.  Jacob was practicing football, Carter was on the swim team, and Sperry couldn't wait to begin playing soccer again with friends. But, this past summer felt very different for me.  I kept telling my husband, Scott that something was different about that summer.  We had to be very flexible this past summer, our plans kept changing and we had to roll with it.  Our vacation dates would change and where we would go camping changed. In our Church I was asked in early July to serve as Relief Society President which was a big change. I didn't even have time to visit the beach which is one of my centering spots. There were more changes to come to our family, and I didn't even know it yet.

Mid July, a phone call came from a recruiter about a position that was interesting to Scott. He told them that he would be happy to hear what this company had to say, but let them know that we were very happy and settled with where we were. He wasn't interested in changing jobs at this time. The phone call from the company was very friendly, and they had some great projects that Scott was interested in. But, once again, Scott graciously mentioned that we were settled and he wasn't going to make any changes at this time. We laugh now at how we thought we knew what was best for us.

Nothing happened, two weeks went by and then a friendly e-mail came from Jeff, one of the Engineers from the company in Colorado.  Jeff wrote in his e-mail that they knew Scott wasn't interested in changing, but asked if we would be interested in taking a trip with our FAMILY out to Colorado to see the area. It was the "no strings attached"" that caught my eye in the e-mail. Wouldn't that be a fun trip for us? Sperry had never been on a plane before and the job did sound like something Scott might like. The interview would only take part of Friday, and the rest of the weekend we could play.

While Scott and I were deciding if we should accept this trip offered. I had the impression that if we were to make this trip, relocating our family would have to be something we were open to. We would have to see the area and decide if we could see our our family could living here.

The trip was wonderful and it was fun to see Scott so excited about projects and the workplace. The kids loved the area and were elated with the fact that it was 4 hours closer to see the grandma's and cousins. It felt like a fit and I knew that we were being directed by our Heavenly Father to make a change. I guess I was too comfortable and there was another place the Lord wanted us to be. It was all falling quickly into place. Did I say quickly, I mean at the speed of sound.

1095 Tuttle Ave for SALE

Wanted: a good family to love this big lonely house.  My family will be moving soon. I'm looking for another family who can buy my love and live here, play tag in my backyard, and I come complete with my very own mailbox. Please come and visit me, meet the wonderful neighbors, and build memories just like the family that has shared many wonderful memories here.

By the way, this family that I've been talking about will really miss this area. They have loved all their friendships shared in the area. And just because they have moved, don't worry you are still in their hearts. Oh, and they expect lots of e-mail, phone calls, and visiting hours are "open" after Labor Day.

from Cali to Colo...

I've been absent. Not absent minded like you might be used to by now, but we have been working on our big, unexpected, excited, sad to leave wonderful friends, excited to meet new wonderful friends, going to a new job at a new company in a new state...news.  We are moving from California to Colorado.

So, with that as our background, now I think you'll find it with understanding that I've been so absent from my blog. Goodness, I couldn't tell you until Scott gave notice at his work. And, we have just been running around like crazy learning how to go from a zillion freeways and zillions of people to an easier to navigate freeway system and many new people to meet. What an adventure to think we are all in place for the upcoming school year, only to have things all changed. We embrace the change and know that the Lord has something different in mind for us.  So we invite you to our world... here's a few pictures.  Ok, no pictures. My computer is temporarily prohibiting this. But pictures will come I promise!!

House in California...and yes, for sale if you are a potential buyer!

Weirdo Mom Discovered!

The very frequent  weirdo mom was discovered after a painful loss at Othelo. Luckily I was there at the scene then after that she threatened me that I would never get allowance again if I posted this picture, but here I am. Enjoy the picture post it everywhere and show all your friends!

                                          Signed: Jacob :) :)

MOM POST: I noticed this post recently that Jacob had written. Never win me at a game I grew up on loving. Of course I am posting his note, but the picture has been "misplaced" by our Editor.

Diving for Dollars

This Title is a little deceiving.  But, I'll share the story of how to dive in 5 minutes or less.
We were swimming with my fab friend Marschelle.  Come to find out, she used to dive competitively and was giving a couple of girls pointers on the diving board. I'm not one to walk away from an opportunity for my kids to learn something else that I can't do... I asked her if she would help my kids in the "pointers" rotation for diving tips. That girl is part miracle worker...within minutes Sperry who had never done a "knee dive" before advanced from a knee dive into a beautiful dive from the diving board. I had to put my eyeballs back in my head and loved it so much.  I asked if she would take a few minutes to help the boys. Jacob and Carter needed a little incentive so I offered them 30 minutes of "goody bucks" (thus the "diving for dollars tactic) that could be turned in for computer time as soon as we got home.  They stood in line and they all can dive well from the diving board.
To be fair, the boys had a little previous training in diving from poolside, but I was so impressed.

Thanks to Margaret and the clan for helping us have a very fun summer outing and thanks to my miracle worker.  And, one day I'll bring my camera to the pool to provide proof. Once again, my kids keep conquering my "mom aint good at this either" list. Hopefully they will complete the list, which is very long, before they leave the nest. On that day, with tissue in hand, I'll wave them goodbye knowing that they can do whatever they put their mind to. And that my kids have exceeded all my own list of shortcomings. (tissue, wipe tears away...those happy tears).

Double **GULP**

We are in week 2 of double gulp...a new service job for me at my church (I'm a happy: LDS, Mormon, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints girl. All in one). I have been asked to serve as the Relief Society President. Woah, don't you have to be serious to do this? I guess if they asked me to do this, they don't care for a kick of krazy sometimes. So I'm excited to work with all the women in my church helping to support them in their endeavors to be closer to God, serve others and help their families grow stronger.  It's a big responsibility, but where ever there is responsibility there must be balance right? So I guess my list to, "what I did this summer" has changed a little to include more meetings.  But, you know what...I love it. I absolutely love it.  (followed by another **gulp**

Pianists in Progress

Last Saturday Sperry and Carter played 2 songs each at their recital. Jacob has moved on to band in the fall...you know in middle school you get to pick the instrument? Well, he is going to be "practicing" or waiting until I remember to remind him to practice his favorite piano music (Star Wars and Hello Muddah Hello Faddah).  Carter did a wonderful job with his surfboard boogie, he likes the Jazz songs you know. He just got up there and played with the tricky tempo and all. It was groovy and a very proud moment for his mommy.  Sperry has really caught the music bug. She played the band comes marching and the tune is in my head for the next week, daily. I really don't mind the catchy tune rattling in my mind because it makes me think of how happy I am that my kids are getting their music appreciation time.

My dad would be so proud. Dad was always involved with music in one way or another. He worked for years at Kawai (best darn pianos ever), loved to listen to music and attend concerts. I can remember world class musicians coming to our humble home playing to "inspire us".  I'm a big music person. Music can bring out emotions in you that you didn't know exist. Get lost in a song, and thank me later for this gentle reminder.  Oh, a funny thing...the summer music schedule at the Farmer's Market in La Brea on Sept 2nd is the good old band, Gene Loves Jezebel. Wanna join me?

Jacob's creation

Jacob has got some great creative talent. IN this school project he needed to incorporate all the shapes found at the bottom of the page. Doesn't this look like something in a comic book? Thanks Jacob, I love that you can do this sort of stuff!

Bri's Bracelets

My friend Marcella Spease-Prevost has ordered purple bands in honor of our friend Bri (similar to the LiveStrong yellow bands). They are sold for $5.00 each and all proceeds go to Bri's family.  If you'd like to order one of these wonderful reminders about what we are living for... please put your e-mail on a comment and I'll have her get in touch with you.  Or if you happen to know the wonderful Marcella, you can of course contact her directly.
Well done Marcella with another great idea to help others!

Carter's 4th grade play

Woah, is this my Carter up on the stage singing, speaking a memorized part, looking relaxed and enjoying every minute of it? What a wonderful surprise to see that Carter was up there like he owned the place. He even got to say a joke (he's got great delivery by the way) asking, "has anyone seen my cat?"  It was funny and very entertaining.
I loved watching this kid grow into his own and becoming his own person. He's got a great sense of self and has a big heart.  Thanks Carter for the entertaining play. You and Merryweather Clark are both adventurous frontiersmen.  You broke new ground as a 4th grader and I'm so happy to be yo momma! Of course I'll try to put on some clips of the play for the grandma or the reader who enjoys a good musical about the establishment of the west. But in the mean time, just know that for me there was only one star...Carter.

HAGS to you

Scott and I were looking over Jacob's middle school yearbook. Sixth graders out here get a choice to continue in Elem. school or attempt middle school.  So, he ventured over to middle school and it was perfect choice for him, but his experiences are now typical of middle school and it takes me back.  (if you need a flashback, see Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2, Rodrick Rules. It will have you back in time within 5 minutes.)

We noticed in some of the signatures and notes in his yearbook included "HAGS". It took us a while to figure out the cryptic message, but the next day Scott figured it out. It stands for the old stand by, "Have A Great Summer".  I guess the acronyms are now a way of life. So HAGS to you and yours. We were laughing, so hard...why did it take us time to figure it out? I guess because we came from the full words version in our days.  When I showed Jacob some of my middle school yearbooks, He laughed at the things we would write.  Remember giving out your phone number, letting everyone know you were so glad to have a class with them, and how your older sister would sometimes write her descriptions of people in your yearbook under their pictures.  Jacob's favorite signature from my yearbook was something from our wonderful Colette Clark. I had never noticed it before, but it was so funny how one letter can make all the difference. It said, "Marci, you are so sweat."   I hope she meant "sweet".  Colette, did you mean sweat or sweet? You'll have to get back to me on this...oh great now I'm self conscious...just like in middle school. :)  HAGS, now maybe our kids will take us up a few notches on their "cool-o-meter". 

little mommy in the house

Where to even start...my mom reached an age "milestone" recently. She said that she wanted to hear all the fun things that are shared at a funeral, while she is still alive. So instead of some hokey team building exercise, I decided to throw her a party where all the guests bring a short talk and tell some stories about mom. We called it a "fake wake" and it was so much fun. My mom was grinning from ear to ear the entire time while hearing stories and thoughts about her. She's influenced so many people and my mind was filled with memories from growing up. Thanks everyone for making it a successful party. I did an original cheer complete with pom poms because my mom was a cheerleader in high school and growing up we would hear a random cheer of encouragement from time to time. Aaron made up a poem, Kris shared some memories, and Quinn kept talking and talking (trying to top mine, but we all know my tribute was the best).  Andrea even came in via Skype to share her thoughts.  My uncle shared of times when they were little growing up in the small town of Salem. Everyone share some good memories that took me back. I forgot that we would make "boats" to race down the irrigation ditch. I forgot that she would tell others we were "precious cargo" when a friend drove us places. Jamie made up a cute poem and Sara shared from her heart, Wade told some funny stories of when he and Kris were dating, and Wes expressed new gratitude for the recent addition to his family.  Larry, my mom's husband, shared some cute insights to life in high school and then meeting up again at a high school reunion. It was a sweet night, and of course we had to serve ham, funeral potatoes, rolls and the RIP cupcakes.

My mom flew back with me to spend some time at our house. One day I even took the kids out of school (which I never do) so they could have a movie day with lots of treats. We loved every minute of this visit and it really helped the kids to get to know their grandma one on one. She read and played games with the kids and just came to be a part of our craziness. Thanks grandma gorgeous...you are beautiful inside and out.

oh man... end of school year thoughts

Some of you are out and about enjoying those lazy summer days. Don't worry, we will be there with you soon. However, right now we are in the push to get finished with school.  I am struggling to remember about lunch money, snacks, homework. I want to be thinking about the beach, museums, sleeping in, bike rides, camping, watching Phinneas and Ferb and eating BBQ on our patio. I do love a good school year, don't get me wrong. But sometimes there are the times when you don't want to be responsible. You get to let go a little and let things slide a little, and just enjoy.  I'm also in the get things organized and clean out mode. Beware my children, we will be cleaning out toys and going into the depths of our closets all in the sake of sanity.

Speaking of sanity (remember that the post title said "thoughts" and my thoughts can get pretty random so just go with it.) I've been thinking a lot about those who have had a life changing event. In a move, new job or searching for that job, tornadoes, health crisis, or just plain things that happen to all of us...like life! There have been so many things that keep us in a constant state of learning. I guess I'm grateful for new things to learn. The trail can be pretty rocky but there are so many examples of strength and faith out there. Sometimes it takes the toll of an unplanned event to see their example shine through. I've seen a lot of shinny examples lately taking things one day at a time and rebuilding through hard work and faith.

At the end of the school  year, my hopes of being a "fun" mother are high, and so is my hope to have energy enough to support the previous hope.  I'm learning a lot from my children. The are excited to try new things like Jacob is playing tackle football (hope the plays will not be rehearsed on siblings), Carter is kicking it up with the swim team (he loves the water), and Sperry will be working on her swimming with a smile just like always (she even jumps off the high dive). My kids help me to see it's time to try new things and to be excited about it. Of course they can earn the initial summer shake for trying something new the first time.  A little sweetness can help to calm fears. So, this year I'm going to try a few new things.  I'm working one day at Cub Scout camp, work through family history, and trying to ride a road bike. These things are intimidating to me, but then again with so many people trying new things in life...why not join the fun. And to Scott, thanks for being my biggest cheerleader. I know you don't want pom poms, but you are so appreciated. (and to the rest of my cheering section, you know who you are and how much I am grateful for you). 

Bri Brave, Bri Strong, Bri loved

A note to my friend Bri: she has fought valiantly, but the cancer is everywhere and she is finishing her work here upon the earth. So, I'm writing a little note of things I would like to share with her. She knows my heart.


When I first met you I thought: Geez, is there anything this girl isn't able to do? She can run in the Boston Marathon, is a fabulous mother, very sweet wife, and reach out to others in a personal way. She has a brilliant understanding of why we are here on earth and where we are going.  Her light is so bright, many wanted to find the same light; an assurance of a loving Savior and Eternal Father in Heaven.

Bri would get it. A few years ago, when I was so weak or struggling with pain and the difficulty of not being able to do all the things I used to, Bri knew how to relate.  She would always say the right thing to calm my heart and help me continue with joy. When she had her down times battling cancer, once again we were able to talk about the things that really matter. We both had experiences of personal lessons and growth during times when physically we were very limited. It became fun to share some of the things that we were learning, and helped to ease the occasional burden. We supported each other, she is such a gift to me.

She understood the purpose of being a mother.  Every night she would go to each of her children's bedrooms and lie beside them listening to them talk about their day. That was their time with her. She has an incredible bond with her children. Because, she loved them and listened. She and Eric have a special relationship that is so strong. You can tell they love each other. Her husband Eric is as amazing as she is. That's why they make such a wonderful team.  Her mother, Teri became my friend as she would come to serve their family with cheerfulness. I've learned a lot watching this family about how to serve with your heart and turning to the Lord with all your might, mind and strength.
 
Bri, I am grateful to have you as a friend. You will continue to raise the hands that hang down. Your gifts will continue to be used and magnified. Service will stay as a part of who you are. Now you will be able to continue serving others in a way that is not dependent upon physical boundaries. Your family will be able to continue beyond the grave because of your love with Eric and your sealing within the Temple. The promise of "time and all eternity" will be realized. You will continue to have a role in the lives of your children. There will be times when they are privileged to feel you close.  I know this to be true because I have felt my father's hand in my own life, who has been gone for over 20 years now.

So, I will continue to Bri Brave, Bri Strong, and Bri loved. Thank you being beautiful on the outside, but even more importantly on the inside. Thank you for your fight, love and friendship.
"I thank you for your faith and devotion to the gospel, for the love and care you show to one another, and for the service you provide." (quoted from Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in April, 2011)

Spring Break

This past week was our spring break. I love having the kids around and going on adventures. This year, we kept it mellow and didn't go out of town. Instead we took advantage of the beautiful weather and stayed local.

We hung out at the beach, I wanted to get some spring color and got a small sunburn. The kids played in the cold waves and found sand crabs and dug a new irrigation system with plastic shovels. It was so nice to have the company of several friends and their kids hanging out with us. I love being at the beach, the sun, the snacks and the peace. It helps that the kids love it as much as I do.

Scott had a few days off, so he instigated the "mountain bike ride to the beach".  The trip was beautiful, fun, and harder than I remember. Be careful when someone tries to pull you into riding a trip that is mostly downhill. You'll be navigating speed control with a hand on the break, 12 crossings of streams (some deeper than others), and even might mysteriously hit a patch of poison oak...like I did. But, I'd recommend you go. It's a fun family event and watching my kids do more than I thought they could really made me proud.  Sperry's got more guts than I did at seven and the boys are getting skilled with their riding. It was so much fun...9 miles of fun.

We met friends at the park, the kids played a little tennis, and went swimming. And we watched a lot of movies at home. Nice and easy, that's how we like things. Now that I've gotten a taste of summer, it will be hard to get back into the swing of things and wait 6 more weeks for the vacation to begin.  Oh, summer...how we look forward to you.

10 can you believe it?

Carter kid has had a birthday and is now 10 years old.

I can't believe it and I'm so proud of him. He's one of the happy and friendliest kids who is great at reading. He's read several thousand pages of books this year and continues to learn a video game like it's a priority. (which to him, it is). 

For some reason it's a little hard for me to let go of all the organized games and theme parties. I realized he just wanted to have a fun time with 10 of his friends. So we had the trampoline, pogo stick, wii, a movie and basketball going.  And I kept up with providing the snacks for these hungry boys. Instead of a cake, he wanted an ice cream sundae bar complete with strawberries, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream that squirts from a can. (mental note: you had to stop the squirts directly to the mouth).  The party was so much fun, I wondered why I don't do this every year.  At this age, I guess they don't need the themes so much and the cake that takes you over 3 hours to decorate. (unless you like doing that stuff of course).

He chose to have his birthday dinner at soup plantation because he loves it there. I had made a good old fashioned mom cake. You know the types of cakes your mom put together that didn't look all fancy, but did the job? I made a 9x13 and decided it looked like a Wii controller.  With a few strokes of icing and copying a controller with the buttons, it was complete with a message at the bottom of the cake, "Wii love Carter". That made him very happy.

I love this sweet and caring boy. I know I'm getting mushy...but a very happy birthday to you Carter.  We love you so much and are very happy you are a part of  our family.

Carter's mad dash

 

Carter made the front page of our city's local paper, the Acorn.

He is the in middle (4th in from each side) with red shorts on.

Last Saturday Carter had been training with his track team from his Elementary. His was to run the 67 meters race in the city's "Jr. Olympics" where all the teams from all the elementary schools of our city compete in different events.  Carter did a wonderful job and stayed in pack during the mad dash to the finish. He got to run on the high school track, have a stadium of parents cheering, and of course his highlight...visit the snack bar.

He was calm and collected. He did not get nervous...instead he was funny as he joked just before the race with the officiator. How did I get kids that manage stress much better than I do?  Carter, we are so proud of you! Welcome to your chicken bowl and skittles after your mad dash. You earned that trip to the snack bar, for sure!! Great work trying something new, practicing, running a mile at least once a week in training.  You did great!

Funny story: I was at church and a friend asked me if Carter was on the front page of the newspaper (that I must admit just ends up in the recycle bin at my house a lot).  I told her no, that must be someone else. But, since she mentioned, I dug through my recycle bin. Luckily it wasn't far from the top, and whalla there he was. Just goes to show that going to church can really help you with responsibilities as a mother.  AND, that others are watching out for your family. Thanks Tammi!!