Alligator Wrestling

Let It Snow!!

2012-01-10T08:10:00.000-08:00

We all really enjoyed our first snowfall in 8 years!! What a fun time! It's already melted but we look forward to our next, and our next after that!!

My Glass is Half Full...Mostly!

2012-01-10T06:43:00.000-08:00

It an economic climate of wary looks and unsteady knees I really should express my great appreciation that my husband has a job.
We are very fortunate to get a paycheck every month.
We are so blessed to have wonderful health benefits, especially with appendixes needing removal and gashes needing stitching.
I am greatful that my husband enjoys his work and feels valued and challenged there.
I acknowledge the opportunities that come from relocation and travel.
I see the benefits of being a part of a military family.
...BUT...
I'm tired of him being gone!!
Just six months of togetherness is all I ask.
Just six months of seeing his face everyday.
Just six months of not having to worry about his safety every minute.
Just six months of childhood milestones he won't be missing.

I'm tired. For now I will just keep my chin up and my glass half full, focusing on all of my blessings. In a few weeks, when he gets home he can fill up the other half.

Christmas Favorites

2011-12-27T06:41:00.000-08:00

Christmas was a magical time! We enjoyed spending time playing and relaxing together. We celebrated the birth of the Savior Jesus Christ and we ate delicious treats! If only Christmas wasn't just once a year!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2011-12-24T11:11:00.000-08:00

Who Needs An Appendix Anyway??

2011-12-24T10:55:00.000-08:00

17 hours of CRAZY!!

Sunday, December 18

5:00 am--Spencer arrives at my bedside complaining of a stomach ache. Vomitting begins!

8:00 am--Vomitting continues. He vomits alone in the bathroom with the door closed saying, "I got this, I got this."

10:00 am--Vomitting continues. He is keeping nothing down now, not even his own spit. He is throwing up every thirty minutes. He lets me sit with him in the bathroom while he vomits.

12:00 pm--He accepts a big pot, we call it a 'puke bucket' and lays in bed. He falls asleep and we are sure he will feel better when he wakes up.

2:00 pm--Spencer is awake and the vomitting continues.

I start to worry.

4:00 pm--Vomitting continues. Complaints of stomach pain increase.

6:00 pm--Stomach pain seems to be localizing to the lower right quadrant.

I start to seriously worry.

7:00 pm--Ben and I bundle up the sick boy and drive to the ER.

He really didn't want to go, he was afraid. He actually faked feeling better hoping we would turn around.

8:00 pm--IV is started, anti-nausea meds and fluids are administered.

He watched the nurse administer the IV and asked questions the whole time. He never once fussed or cried.

9:00pm--Morphine is administered and prep is done for CAT scan.

He has to drink 16 ounces of pink punch, which is actually contrast for his CAT scan.

11:00 pm--CAT scan is administered and diagnosis of appendicitis is confirmed.

The nurses and doctors were not the least bit surprised. His doctor called him a "text book case."

Sunday, December 19

12:00 am--Spencer is transported by ambulance to a sister hospital with a pediatric surgical team.

Riding in a ambulance was especially exciting for him. Not so much for me.

1:00 am--Spencer is prepped for laproscopic surgery and wheeled away.

I was frightened. Ben was calm and confident. We were both exhausted.

2:00 am--Surgery is successful and Spencer wakes up quickly from anesthesia.

He immediately wants a popcicle...preferrably chocolate.

4:00 am--Spencer and I are asleep in a hospital room.

Ben is on his way home to sleep for an hour and then to take boys to Seminary. Then to sleep for another hour and then get Emma ready and off to school. Bless him!

12:00 pm--Spencer is released from the hospital.

He pooped, he peed, he ate and he walked around he halls.

Now we all rest!!

Whew!!

Fun on Hidden Lake

2011-12-08T12:15:00.000-08:00

September 2011

We moved to a small neighborhood way out in the country, nearly 20 minutes from the closest Walmart and 15 minutes from the closest stop light. Across the street from our little house in the woods is a lake. Is not a huge lake but it has a dock platform, a small beach and a fire pit. It's perfect for our kind of fun! We bought a couple of kayaks and the kids are loving it! Michael and Jasen are naturals at the kayaking, years at Scout camps, no doubt. We were pleasantly surprised at how well Emma and Spencer took to the adventure as well.

Now they can't wait to get out their fishing poles!

Halloween 2011

2011-12-08T12:11:00.000-08:00

A Brisk Morning on the Lake

2011-12-08T11:52:00.001-08:00

I walk around the lake and enjoy this view almost every day!

It's glorious!!

One Crazy Night in the Woods!

2011-12-08T11:47:00.000-08:00

My new home is in the woods! We live on more than an acre and a large chunk of it is...well, woods. It's a beautiful and serene environment. Often I sit on my back deck and drink in the sweet tranquility. I love the wildlife and sometimes even the solitude.

Unfortunately, with the lovely comes the love-less. I am having my first experiences with some aspects of country life that I am not so taken with. The number one offender...the septic system.

We have a septic tank. I am not sure where it is because it is buried under the ground. I am not sure how it works, as I try not to think about that kind of nastiness to much. I do, however, know where the septic alarm is...as last night at 11:48, in a torrential downpour it went off, emitting the most heinous sound, waking up all the children and requiring me (Ben is, of course, out of town) to go out in the rain to hit the big, red, blinking button to turn it off. (Why the bright red emergency shut-off button connected to the side of the house never gathered my attention and curiosity before remains a mystery.) With the threat of sewage backing up into my house I am definitely more interested in the whole process. Now, as I await a septic professional to tell me whether or not I can flush...I pine for city sewage facilities in the worst way.

Second on the offenders list...trees. Now this seems like a broad statement. Let me be more clear. I am not a fan of falling trees. Especially falling trees that choose 3 am to make their loud and terrifying presence known. Even more especially after one has already been woken up not even three hours earlier by a SEPTIC ALARM.

Needless to say, we had a huge storm over the past few days. Literally, it rained for 40 hours. Roads washed out, river banks overflowed, trees toppled and I got very little sleep. We were fortunate to have no house damage. We lost two trees, a septic system and 2 beetles Spencer was keeping in his Critter Keeper on the back porch. We gained a huge appreciation for indoor plumbing, chain saws and sump pumps. (Just keep on pumping little friend!! Just keep on pumping!!)

Ahhhh, back woods livin'!! This is the life...oh, um, can I please borrow someone's bathroom?

Our Princess

2011-11-27T16:18:00.000-08:00

Emma

is nine years old! She continues to bless our lives with her sweet smile and her spicy personality. How lucky we are to have her!!

My Backyard Friends

2011-10-17T15:48:00.000-07:00

Sweet Sixteen!!

2011-10-08T16:14:00.000-07:00

I don't know when it happened but my first baby is 16 years old!

He is charming and handsome.

We are just as smitten with him as the rest of the world!

We love you Michael!

Happy Birthday

Celebrating Jasen!!

2011-10-08T15:57:00.000-07:00

JASEN

Happy Birthday to our happy happy boy!!! We love you and thank Heaven for you in our lives!!

Questionable shirt??

2011-10-08T14:39:00.000-07:00

Michael inherited a shirt from my brother Aaron. Brea was over visiting one afternoon and after getting wet with little kids she borrowed it to be dry! The shirt, which had always seemed innocently benign on my brother and my son seemed almost vulgar on my sister. What is your opinion??

Homelessness

2011-10-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

We have had a fun summer! Let me reiterate...we have had a FUN summer. We have gone to water parks and National Parks. We have gone sky diving and diving board diving. We have ridden trains and trained frogs. We have hiked thousands of feet high and strolled a mile high. We have laughed and loved family and friends. We have played hard.

And through it all, deep down in an almost unreachable area of my heart, there has been a tiny bit of worry. A tiny prick of concern. When it's all over, when the summer ends and real life begins...we still don't have a place to call home. I know that we will. I know that the Lord has a plan for us. I know that Ben is in Virginia right now probably walking through the perfect place for our family to call home but in the meantime...until I get the A-OK we are, for all intents and purposes, a homeless bunch. We are gypsies, living off the love and hospitality of family and friends.

I am loving it mostly. Homelessness comes with very little responsibility. No one will ask for your help. No one will expect you to bring anything to a pot luck or babysit their children. No one will ask you to teach a church lesson or volunteer in a classroom. No one will want you to run a committee or even vote. People are very forgiving if your children wear clothes that don't match or if they come to scouting activities without the correct gear. However, hands down the best perk of homelessness is that I face no accountability for my own poor behavior or that of my children. Have a temper tantrum...blame it on the homelessness. Over eat.....blame it on the homelessness. Sleep late.....blame it on the homelessness. Pass gas, very noisily, in the middle of church.....blame it on the homelessness. It's been a very fun, irresponsible, unaccountable summer.

BUT, I miss having a home!

More Colorado Craziness!!

2011-10-08T12:14:00.000-07:00

Colorado Craziness!

2011-09-30T06:23:00.001-07:00

Woodbury's Lake

2011-09-29T18:53:00.000-07:00

Our great friends, the Woodbury's invited the whole family to come play at their lake, well...their community lake...for an evening of fun! Andi and her kiddos, Brea and Ben and Mom and Dad all hung out with us and Jane and Martin Woodbury for a picnic and boating. The Woodbury's taught me to water ski and tube behind a boat when I was a youngin' so I was very excited to let them take my kids for a spin. All the kids had a blast tubing! Memories were definitely made by all. On a personal note, I spent the majority of the time laughing until I cried at the hilarious faces my kids made while being whipped around the lake. It was awesome!!

Camping in Leadville!

2011-09-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

The historic city of Leadville is North America's highest incorporated city (10,430 feet elevation), and the frontier West's wildest, richest, silver mining Boom Town. Now the town is near the base of a new mining operation,the Climax Molybdenum Mine. My brother Mat works for the mining industry and moved his family from Denver to Leadville at the beginning of the year and they have loved it. The scenery is breath taking. The hiking and biking trails are unsurpassed. The people and the community are eclectic and fun. We had the pleasure of visiting Leadville, camping and playing for a few days. We kayaked, fished, biked and laughed...a lot!! It was so much fun!!

Story Time

2011-09-29T08:12:00.001-07:00

While we visited Logan, my Grandma Baker sat down with the kids to tell them stories about the miracles of the building of the Logan Temple. It was so cool for me to see my children enjoying time with their Great Grandmother.

Some of the stories were intense!

The boys also enjoyed skating on cousins, Jesse and Davids', half pipe.

Utah Fun!!

2011-09-23T12:02:00.000-07:00

Ben and the kids got to go Indoor Sky-diving. They all absolutely loved it!!

We all enjoyed a great day at the Herriman Rec Center with cousins Megan and Jordan.

We enjoyed lots of sidewalk art with Uncle Corey and Aunt Stacie. We played with smoke bombs and sparklers with our cousins Hallie, Jack and Tess.

We visited the LDS Church History Museum, where Spencer and Emma both have art on display. They are so proud. I am so proud.

My GQ men!

Cousins!!

We had so much fun visiting with Grandma and Grandpa Dawson and all of our aunts, uncles and cousins! We love them all!!

Hoogle Zoo

2011-09-23T10:18:00.001-07:00

Where the Deer and the Antelope Roam!

2011-09-23T10:09:00.000-07:00

Ben's parents took us on a picnic to Antelope Island, which is in the middle of The Great Salt Lake. The island is a wildlife preserve and we loved visiting. We saw buffalo, antelope, rabbits, a coyote, an owl, a baby raven and lots of other cool birds! It was a wonderful picnic!!

Timpanogas Caves

2011-09-23T09:29:00.000-07:00

While we were in Utah I thought it would be fun to take the kids on a little hike up to Timpanogos Cave National Monument, high in the Wasatch Mountains. The mountains were beautiful and the kids were excited to be outside and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Little did I understand that the hike was 1-1/2 miles, with a 1,160 feet elevation gain to the cave entrance. Now some of you "higher elevation folk" might scoff at my up and coming complaint but please let me preface by saying that the caves were at 6,370 ft. which is 6300 feet higher than we were accustomed. The first 1/2 mile of the hike was great...the rest was GRUELING. Even Michael, the runner, felt a heaviness in his chest. Only Ben, the great, hadn't shown signs of suffering when we finally reached the mouth of the caves. Fortunately, the majesty and wonder of the caves and the ease of going down hill to get back to the car made up for the harrowing trek going up! Everyone really enjoyed the caves! I, for one, enjoyed them so much that I don't think I will need to ever go see them again!!

Legs of the Journey-Our Summer of Homelessness

2011-09-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

On June 17 we left our beautiful and beloved home on Erskine Drive in sunny San Clemente, California. I had hoped that we would leave in the midst of gray skies, torrential downpours and muddy waters…that the home that we had loved for so long would be overcome with grief…but it was not so. The sky was blue and blotted with puffy white clouds. The ocean was a crystal dream and the waves, perfect for teenage delight, seemed to wave lazy goodbyes as we hit the long road to Virginia.
I will describe our trip in “legs,” cause it seems the trip taker’s thing to do! The first leg of our journey took us to Herriman, Utah…a 12 hour drive (kids=stops)…to visit with Ben’s fabulous sister Annette and her wonderful and fun family! Please see my post, “Timpanogas Caves!”
The next leg of our journey took us to visit Ben’s parents in Clearfield, Utah…another hour! Ben’s parents are so dear and we always enjoy our time with them. While we were there we also got to hang out with Ben’s sister Sara and her super fun family and Ben’s sister Stacie and her crazy new hubby! We also got to spend time with my Grandma Stones and my aunts Melanie and Emy. Please see my posts “Where the Deer and the Buffalo Play,” “Hoogle Zoo” and “Utah Fun!”
The third leg of our journey took us to Logan, Utah (one more hour) to visit my Grandma Baker and my aunt Brenda. We also picked up a third driver while we were there…MY MOM!! Please see my post, “Story Time.”
The next leg of our journey (11 hour drive) took us across the wide and open expanses of Wyoming and left us in Longmont, Colorado…my home town! My parents moved into a new house recently and it was so fun to take up all of their new space and relax. We had adventures and then some!! Please see my posts "Camping in Leadville," “Woodbury’s Lake,” “Colorado Craziness,” "More Colorado Craziness" and “Homeless.”
Ben left Colorado on the 8th of July on his way to VA and work. Our housing situation was still unsure so the kids and I stayed in Colorado until the end of August, and the end of our welcome stay at my parents' house. Once again, my Mom brought her super driving skills to the table and together we loaded up the van and, with four disgruntled kids, we said goodbye to Colorado and headed onto our next leg of our journey.
Three days and an immense amount of mileage later we arrived in VA and into the loving arms of our honey/Daddy. It took another week and a half before we were in our new place but finally we are HOME!
It’s been a great adventure!! I can honestly say that it has been a huge blessing in all of our lives…this job change, this location change, this school change, this family togetherness change…change is good!!

TADPOLES

2011-04-15T22:42:00.000-07:00

My Hot Mess

2011-04-15T21:23:00.001-07:00

Michael has had a rough couple of months. In January he started passing out...just short, two or three second episodes. At first it started out happening once a week and quickly it was happening more often until he was passing out at least once a day. His doctors are baffled. They sent him in for lots of cool tests which he passed with flying colors.

His blood work came back normal.

Electrocardiogram(EKG)...Perfect!

Electroencephalogram(EEG)...No Abnormalities!

Then to make things interesting we also made trips to the ER for a

dislocated patella (knee cap) and two weeks later a knee sprain.

And now, just to keep me on my toes... A dog bite!! Awesome!!

At least there have been no broken bones *knock on wood*!! My poor boy is one "hot mess."

Spencer is 6

2011-04-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

Spencer turned 6 years old.

He is such a sun-shiny delight to all he meets!!

We sure love this kid!!

Oh, Hail!!

2011-02-26T21:14:00.000-08:00

We have had a little cold spell here in sunny Southern California and it actually hailed today...three times. Spencer, who has sadly never actually seen snow fall watched the hail in amazment. He ran out onto the front porch, scooped up a handful and brought it to me.

"Hey Mom, what are these little white ice-es falling from the sky?"

As I explained to him the science of hail I thought to myself, you poor innocent California babe. Virginia is gonna rock your sunny, warm winter-less little world. I can't wait!!

The First Day of Soccer Practice

2011-02-26T20:47:00.001-08:00

Wednesday was the first day of Spring Soccer practice...and this is what my little kids looked like at 7:30 pm. Awesome!! I love soccer season!!

Tater-tot Catastrophe

2011-02-17T17:43:00.000-08:00

One of the customs that I adopt during a deployment is called "dinner ease." Basically, there are two types of dinner..."find something to eat" and "who wants McDonalds." Hence...dinner ease.

Well, tonight I decided to make dinner, like actually make something hot, not just set out bowls and Fruity Pebbles. I thawed hamburger all day, cooked it up with chopped onion (which I will admit that I bought in the frozen food section from Ore Ida already chopped). I added two cans of cream-o-mushroom soup (easy pop lids) and a dash of garlic powder. Then I decided that I would take my good mothering moment one step further. I invited Spencer to help me finish up the casserole. He eagerly accepted, pulling a dining chair into the kitchen and next to the counter. I had him unwrap a bullion cube and drop it into a little bit of water to dissolve. He stirred it diligently until it was nothing but a puddle of brown. I let him pour it into my pan of soupy meat. Then I brought out the main ingredient. Tater tots!!! I poured the tots into the pan and ask him to stir. He was so excited. (He takes his helping and eating very seriously.) He stirred with vigor while I dug out the casserole dish in the cupboard behind him.

Sudden catastrophe.
I heard it before I saw it. A heavy glopping sound...and another...and then as I turned I watched the whole contents of the pan pour onto the dining chair, Spencer's socked feet and then the floor. Frozen tots bounced around the room, leaving little trails of soupy mess behind them. Spencer held a wooden spatula in one hand and the large pan in the other. The pan was heavy as he tried to lift it back up and onto the counter. With each attempt (and there were three) more of the tater tot mess poured out onto the floor. To an untrained eye it might seem like he was shaking our hot dinner onto the floor. But to anyone knowing Spencer another story was being told. His face was filled with panic and instant regret and apology. He finally got the pan back up onto the counter...it got lighter as it got emptier. I had to laugh or he would have cried. We laughed together as we used our hands to scoop up the mess.

Well, needless to say we are having Fruity Pebbles for dinner and I am not going to try anymore "good mothering moments" anytime soon. It's "dinner ease" all the way baby!!

The Pain Scale

2011-01-27T07:39:00.000-08:00

I took my oldest to the doctor yesterday for a sore back and neck. He really has been complaining for a long time about it...about a month...so, according to my personal instruction manual entitled 'How to be a Middle of the Road Mother' and in keeping with my history of letting my children suffer with injuries before taking them to the doctor I took him yesterday.

During the exam the doctor asked him what his pain level was, on average throughout the day, on a scale of 1, being almost no pain to 10, being the worst pain ever experienced. He said 7. SEVEN!!?? 7??? Seriously?? Seven??!!

I almost punched him in front of the doctor. I don't punch my kids on a regular basis or anything but SEVEN?!! Instead I said, "Seven? Are you serious? Dude, you are nuts. Be real." The doctor actually gave me a warning stare. GULP! But COME ON...

Seven on the pain scale should be reserved for pain associated with decapitated limbs, large muscle tears, full body burns and an occasional dislocation.

This is the way my pain scale works:

#10 is reserved for the pain of the thigh bone break. Everyone says it's the most excrutiating pain known to man so I have reserved 10 for that possibility.

#9 is reserved for the pain of childbirth...also kidney stones. I hear kidney stones are pretty bad. I am not exactly sure how passing a pebble and passing an 8 lb. squirmer constitute the same number on the pain scale. I think someone was just trying to make a man feel better about his screaming and fussing but, hey...I am bowing to experience. The 8 lb. squirmer on the other hand...yeah, I am a pro.

#8 is reserved for the pain of organ implosion, like gall bladder attacks and apendicitis. I suffered from gall stones and then multiple gall bladder attacks and inevitably a gall bladder-ectomy. I will tell you...definitely an 8. Owwwwch!!

So, that brings us to #7. I am sure that some back pain is a 7. My father in law has had severe back pain, that possibly even constitutes an 8 or 9. However, I don't feel like an injury or condition warrants a 7 unless it greatly limits your normal activity...like a skull fracture or a full knee hyper-extension.

My son has not been impaired at all. He still goes to school, runs, body boards, swims, plays soccer, jumps on the trampoline, ice blocks and makes out with girls. His back is not inhibiting his activity in any way. Is it sore? Sure. Does he complain about it? Sure. Does it stop him? Not even a little bit.

So now the doctor has given me a new manual entitled 'You Are the Crappiest Mother on the Planet' and given my son muscle relaxers that make him drowsy and happy.

Maybe the kid is on to something...actually, I need to go now. My back is feeling super sore. Infact, it may actually be a seven7. I need to make a doctors appointment!!

Some of my Holiday Favorites!!

2011-01-22T11:46:00.001-08:00

Whooping Cough at Our House

2011-01-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

(Written November 20, 2010)

This is what Whooping Cough looks like at our house!!

Really Attached To My New Cap!!

2011-01-06T20:24:00.000-08:00

My brother Michael gave me a cap that belonged to my brother Aaron. He originally thought that one of my boys would like it...and they probably would have but to bad...I saw it first.

It is ratty and faded camouflage cap, covered in old patches. The look is fashion intended.

I think it would be in the vintage, destressed category.

Both of my sweaty headed brothers have been wearing this cap-ewww, brother cooties- so I washed it. Unfortunately, some of the patches on it didn't handle the wash well. They curled. I am brilliant however and pulled out my super glue, glued the patches down flat and even glued on a Dawson

name tape to personalize it. It's a super cute way to hide that fact that I never do my hair.

Anyway, I guess I didn't wait long enough before trying on my cool new cap cause I just super glued it to my head. I am so awesome!! I hope you all like my new cap, since I can't get it off!! Yeah, me!

Caramel Apple Empanadas

2011-01-06T19:43:00.000-08:00

Ben and I went out on a fabulous date Saturday night...and we didn't go to Costco. We went to Best Buy and then Wal-mart. Whoot-whoot!! For dessert we hit up the Taco Bell drive-thru and ordered two Caramel Apple Empanadas.

Description:
A crispy golden pastry pocket filled with chunks of warm apples in creamy caramel sauce.

It was a very chilly evening and we were both looking forward to the warm, melty caramel apple delight. As we drove out of the parking lot and onto the street we both bit into our empanadas. In an instant we were screaming, swerving, puffing and swatting. The caramel sauce was at near 1000 degrees and as we broke the crispy, golden, pastry seal it dribbled down both of our chins burning a path of sweet and gooey goodness. Reaction or instinct, maybe both, made us wipe the lava-like substance from our chins, searing the skin and muscle from our hands. Traffic around us blurred in a mass of honking, swearing and lights. We barely made it home alive and will forever be maimed...by the scalding decadence.

OK, so maybe I am slightly exaggerating...but not about the delisciousness of the Caramel Apple Empanada! They rock!

Luke 2 and the Grinch

2011-01-06T08:09:00.000-08:00

(Written December 26, 2010)

The kids tree is laden with popcicle stick snowflakes and pom-poms covered in glitter. Chronological pictures of my children pasted into bottle caps or on the back of old CDs look out in all directions. Hand painted play-dough ornaments and candy can reindeer (long past their edible date) drag the tree boughs low. The apex is adorned with a new (this year) bejeweled star made of Q-tips, sequins, Elmer's Glue and lots of gold glitter! It is a sight to behold!

Our "kid tree" is one of the many Christmas traditions that we drown ourselves in this holiday season. It's wonderful. Traditions tie us to our pasts, our heritage and give us stability for the future. The kid tree will always be there.

Our Christmas Eve is full of tradition. We enjoy our holiday feast, slip into new Christmas Eve jammies and sit together in the family room for a reading of the Nativity . It is a Holy, reverent family time that really reiterates the true "reason for the season." It is also fantastic because it comes with a special brew of Sprite and Lime Sherbet, loving named "Grinch Juice". It is my favorite part of the whole Christmas hoopla! This year, however, things were...well al little bit less traditional.

Our deviation from tradition, and ultimately the cause of our downfall happened when we served the Grinch Juice with straws. We asked the kids to get their scriptures and also our favorite Christmas DVD, entitled Luke 2 ready for our special evening. The kids opened up their scriptures and followed along, sipping their chilled green concoction as Ben read the story of the Christ child and his sacred birth.

As we closed the scriptures I reached for the remote. Luke 2, a beautiful production of the Nativity has no commentary, only music. I love it. I am always touched by the simplicity and humility that it portrays. I also love that it is only 5 minutes long...just right for my mix of babies and teens.

At this point Spencer squealed in excitment. He pulled a blanket up around him and scrunched back into the couch, obviously getting comfortable. I was honestly a little surprised at his excitment but pleased that he cared so much for the little babe in a manger.

Spencer: "Mom, can we pop popcorn for this?"

Me: "Oh, honey, this movie is only a few minutes long."
He looked at me in confusion and turned his attention to the scene of the old streets of Bethlehem.

Spencer: "What is this?"

Me: "This is Luke 2, honey. It's about baby Jesus."

Spencer: "This is NOT Luke 2. Luke 2 has Stormtroopers, Darthvader and...(pause for effect)...LUKE SKYWALKER."

In unison the teenagers both burst into peals of laughter sending sprays of Grinch Juice shooting through their straws and all over the carpet. Then Emma started laughing and spraying her own Grinch Juice, which coated the television screen with dripping globs of wet green slush. The shepherds were coated. Then Ben joined in the chaos, laughing until tears rolled down his cheeks. The sacred moment was ruined...and messy.

I will admit that it took me a long time to see the amusement in the situation...and I am sure that Spencer never did. Afterall, he went to bed disappointed, having missed out on "Luke 2". It will however, be a Christmas Eve to remember and maybe next year we will add a new tradition...Star Wars.

Like Uncle, Like Nephew-Idiots

2010-12-05T14:43:00.000-08:00

Ben and I rarely get time out without kids. We cherish simple things, like trips to the Commisary or even to the Red Box. This last Thursday we were enjoying a quick trip down to the Exchange, in search of decongestants and root beer. About 5 minutes into our "date" we got a phone call that went something like this:

Me: "Hello?" -sounding slightly perturbed

Michael: "Mom, remember that time when I was a little kid and Michael David (my youngest brother) got his fingers stuck in a blender?"

Me: "The blender?!!" -sounding paniced and horrified

Michael: "You know, that you blend cookie dough with?"

Me: "Oh, you mean the mixer. No, I don't really remember that he got his fingers stuck in the mixer but I wouldn't put it past him. Why? Did you get your fingers stuck in the mixer?" -sounding perturbed again

Michael: "Yeah, I did...and I can't get them out!"

I pause...and ask you dear reader...

How does one get their fingers caught in hand mixer beaters?? Seriously?? How can I know TWO people, both closely related to me, who have walked that line of idiocy! I love you both Michaels but...seriously?

We left the Exchange and drove home to free our 15 year old son of his self inflicted torture. We arrived to find that his brother had taken pictures for me to use on the blog! So thoughtful. With a little push of the eject button and some smooth pulling from Dad he was freed with nary a scratch. Sigh! So much for an evening out! I suppose I am just fortunate that he didn't try to lick the beaters!

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

2010-12-05T14:31:00.001-08:00

We had our Christmas photo shoot! What do you think??

My Man in Uniform

2010-11-16T20:40:00.000-08:00

One of the bonuses I get with having a husband in the Marine Corps is that at least once a year, in November for the Marine Corps Ball, he gets dressed up in his "dress blues." I love this uniform. I love all uniforms, hence the military husband, but this one is my favorite. (The husband and the uniform!) Happy Birthday USMC and thank you for my present!!

He finds my picture taking a bore.
The thoughtful pose!

Bling shot!

Fall Soccer Highlights-2010

2010-11-16T20:34:00.001-08:00

Spencer's Sight Words!

2010-11-16T07:47:00.000-08:00

BAPTIZED!

2010-11-08T16:26:00.000-08:00

Emma was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Saturday.
As we pulled up to the church building her excitement was palpable. She kept whispering over and over, "I can't believe I am finally going to get baptized."

After she donned her white jumpsuit she merrily skipped around the church building halls, unable to contain the excitement.

We enjoyed a wonderful Stake Baptism presentation of song and a darling talk about the "three bears" of baptism.

*bear upon you the name of Christ
*bear your testimony
*bear the burdens of others

The 7 children participating in the baptismal ordinance seemed entranced by the story.

Emma was then baptized by her father and confirmed a member of the church. It was wonderful.
After Emma came out of the font I wrapped her in a towel and ushered her into the dressing room. She looked up at me and said, "I can't believe I finally got baptized. I feel so happy my face hurts from smiling!"
We are so proud of our little princess and so thankful to have a wonderful group of friends who support us and have become our family here in Southern California!!

Yep, just perfect!!

Testicular Contusions or Bumps In The Road!!

2010-11-08T09:11:00.000-08:00

Being a mother of three 3 boys you would think that I have learned a bit about testicles. This is about all I know:

*they have lots of crude, rude, impolite and even hysterical (while I will never admit it) nicknames. http://alligatorwrestling.blogspot.com/2009/07/meatballs-and-cherries.html

*they get scratched a lot!

*they can "drop," especially and hopefully in infants.

*they can be "snipped" and in some worse case scenarios "removed."

*they are extraordinarily tender/ delicate/ sensitive, especially in the case of blunt force trauma.

*they are, very fortunately, absent from my own personal physique.

When my boys get hurt in their "parts" I just have to hand them ice, ibuprofen and look away while I pat their heads. Usually things are better within an hour or two. I say usually...

Last Monday, a whole week ago, my oldest "Dutch," as he now refers to himself, was kicked playing soccer. It was the kick you imagine...the gasp from the whole team, the fall to the knees and then to the side, the fetal position and whimpering. Nausea and stomach cramps immediately followed. He didn't move for 8 full minutes. All the males on the team stood uncomfortably around him unconsciously protecting their "parts" with their hands. When he did finally manage to crawl off of the field and then limp home he spent the remainder of the day slumped back on the couch with his legs spread eagle.

I gave him lots of sympathy, Motrin and ice...after all, that is really all I know to do. It is a helpless feeling...I didn't really want to look and even if he had let me, I wouldn't know what I was looking for.

The next day, while very sore and still walking "wide" he went off to school without much complaint. Wednesday morning he called me from school and begged to go to the doctor. I took him to Urgent Care. His diagnosis:

Testicular Contusion and Trauma Induced Epididymitis

(basically a bruise and an infection)

He got more Motrin and some antibiotics. The next few days he seemed to be getting better. He even played soccer on Saturday...scored four goals (GO DUTCH). He has been walking normal for the last three days. Aside from reminding him to take his antibiotics his injury has been all but forgotten in my testicle free world.

Alas, this morning Dutch rolled out of bed in misery. We went back to the Dr. and are now awaiting a testicular ultrasound. In the last few hours I have taken the opportunity to read up on testicles, especially the ailments that can be associated with testicles. Did you know:

*in the Middle Ages, men who wanted a boy sometimes had their left testicle removed. This was because people believed that the right testicle made "boy" sperm and the left made "girl" sperm. (I don't recommend this!)

*the testes work best at temperatures slightly less than core body temperature. This is presumably why the testes are located outside the body. (An obvious design flaw, as soccer was not taken into consideration.)

*testicular torsion and testicular rupture are medical emergencies, which can be caused by blunt force impact, and can lead to necrosis of the testis in as little as 30 minutes. (30 minutes? My kids historically have to wait DAYS before I get them to medical professionals!)

Your welcome!!

Anyway, I am still awaiting results from a testicular ultrasound! Dutch seems to be handling all of this rest and relaxation well. I think I will encourage school tomorrow. (He can "sit wide" as easily there as he can here.) I will let him carry an ice pack in his backpack just in case things get sore. Hee-hee!

This November be thankful for testicles, or as in my case, thankful you don't have any!!

Corey and Stacie's Wedding Video

2010-11-08T09:01:00.000-08:00

Please check this out!! This is my darling sister's wedding video!!! It is AMAZING!!
http://kalefitchfilms.com/blog/
"I Never Knew" by Kale Fitch

HALLOWEEN!!!

2010-11-01T11:11:00.001-07:00

BOO!!

Emma's pumpkin (cheshire cat)

Spencer's pumpkin!

Jasen's pumpkin face!

Cyborg!!

Zombie Outbreak Response Team

Howling at the full moon!

Snarly werewolf!!

Gr-r-r-r-r-r! Spooky!!

The Mummy lives!!

Spencer in his Kindergarten costume parade.

Costume box explosion!

Michael and his posse (sean and shawn!)

The motley crew!

Batman (uncle michael david) and Robin (aunt taylor)

Wow, a Storm Trooper at the Trunk-or-Treat!!

Mummy guts, green worms and eyeballs for dinner!!

Dear Halloween,

Thanks for visiting! Your sweet treats, great television and spooky ambience are awesome! We really enjoy most everything you have to offer. I am a special fan of slasher movies edited for television and gummy candy shaped like body parts. I also love the chocolate that seems to be everywhere I look. I think it's great that we can put aside our responsible, straight-laced personalities to become who-ever (or what-ever) we want for one evening without judgement or arrest. Unfortunately, I am tired of nightmare stricken children sleeping in my bed so...see ya next year!! (Here's looking forward to another year of violent and morale degradation desensitization and sugar comas!)

Guess Who Is Eight?!?

2010-10-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

EMMA IS EIGHT!!!

We Love This Girl!!

Pretty Girl!

Trick Candles!

The Littles

Emma and her besties!!

Share Some Hair-Part 2!

2010-10-19T20:23:00.001-07:00

Emma participated in our school-wide ponytail donation benefiting "Pink Heart Funds," an organization that makes wigs for those who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment or other illness. She was so excited to give up 8 inches of her pretty "orange" locks! Her ponytail was one of 27 donated and I am so proud of her!

I love her hair cut! It is so darling and SO easy!!

Our Trip to Stacie's Wedding

2010-10-19T19:21:00.001-07:00

We had such a wonderful time visiting with family and attending Stacie and Corey's wedding! We are so happy for them and feel so lucky to be apart of such a great family!

Jasen's 1st Place Green Chili

2010-10-17T17:49:00.000-07:00

Jasen won our ward Chili Cook-off again tonight for the third year in a row. He looked up recipes on the internet, put a couple together and came up with this super simple winner!! Enjoy!!

Jasen's 1st Place Green Chili

2 lbs. cubed pork
1 onion, diced
3 garlic gloves, minced
2 cans of chicken broth
1 cup of water
1 bottle( 16 oz.) of Salsa Verde (we use the Pace brand)
6 4 oz. cans of chopped green chilies, drained
6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
pepper to taste

1. Brown pork in skillet with onions and garlic. In crock-pot add browned pork, onions, garlic, 1 can of chicken broth, water, Salsa Verde and chilies. Simmer for 3 hours.

2. Add second can of chicken broth, pepper and cubed potatoes. Cook until potatoes are tender.

Enjoy!!!

Michael is 15!!

2010-09-22T06:47:00.000-07:00

MICHAEL ANGELO, WE LOVE YOU!!!

Michael and his buddy Sean...never serious!

Uncle Michael David getting the best part of teenage boys...their pit stink!!

Happy Birthday Boy!!

We think you are amazing and look forward to every minute of your life adventure!

Having a 15 Year Old Means...

2010-09-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

Having a fifteen year old means....
I am no longer a fountain of knowledge, infact, I instantly know nothing.
I shop in the men's department.
I buy shoes that are bigger than boats and cost more than my car payment.
I buy gifts that range from toys and video games to expensive electronics and designer labels.
I must never mention that I once was 15 and I could never understand.
I must not schedule anything without checking in first.
I pay for Driver's Training.
I must only cheer internally at soccer games.
I can not play my music when I shuttle friends.
I can not straighten a tie.
I can not suggest that hair be trimmed or even brushed.
I can not give advice of any kind.
I must not expect simple and long standing expectations.
I pay for SATs and ACTs.
I must never discuss religion or Boy Scouts in public.
I can not compliment or brag about my children in public.
I must compliment and brag about my children all the time.
I must be kind to all friends and drive them anywhere requested.
I apologize to the neighbors for the loud music.
I must endure teenage girls...and the drama they cause.
I must not comment about personal things, even if they have been posted on facebook.
I will visit the Emergency Room no less than two times per quarter.
I must double my grocery bill.
I will wait up late and get up early.
I may be heart-sick and beaming with pride all in the same day.

Failure to comply means I MAY be subjected to:
Eye rolling, humphing, stomping, snorting, door slamming, pouting, tirades and even occasional bad mouthing.

But best of all, having a 15 year old means...I only have three years left!!! Yahoo!!
(Of course, I don't really mean the 'yahoo' part...very much!)

Bad Influence-Grandpa!!

2010-09-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

My Dad thinks being a Grandpa is amazing. He loves that he can dish out all of the fun without any of the rules or discipline. My kids love it too! (Secretly, I love it too!) I have decide to keep a record of all of his nefarious mis-deeds and I will call this record "The Grandpa Acts."

During his last visit, and with the support of my mother and sister (shame on you both), he performed some of his most masterful Grandpa Acts, leading Spencer farther down the path of Naughtiness!!

#1-The Suggestion #2-The Encouragement
#3-The Approval #4-The Cover-up

#5-Naughtiness Obtained

OK, in all honesty Spencer was well on his way down the path of Naughtiness on his own.

But seriously, I would have eaten that little cheesecake.

Also, when he tried this with his bowl of Rice Krispies this morning

the results were much messier!!

More of The Grandpa Acts!!

Sprinkles and Whipped Cream!

Oh, the HORROR!!

Life Will Never Be The Same

2010-08-30T19:58:00.000-07:00

Have you ever experienced a moment in life where, in a fraction of a second, you realize...from this moment on, life will never be the same. I think we all experience moments like this; the moment we say "I do," the moment we hear the first cry of our first child, the moment we lose a loved one.

I have experienced a few of these moments. As I ran up to help at my first accident scene I had a moment. Life was never the same. When I walked out of the courthouse following my divorce I had a moment. Life was never the same. When I said good-bye to my husband and sent him to Iraq for the first time I had a moment. Life was never the same. And today, when I watched my youngest baby walk into his Kindergarten classroom I had a moment. Life will never be the same.

I am sad. I will miss our walks together. I will miss our cuddly naps and shopping treks. I will miss his company. He might miss me a little bit. (I secretly hope.) I know, however, that his days will be full of fun, adventure and learning. There won't be much time for missing. I, on the other hand, will have plenty of empty time for that.

So, now that I have had a "life will never be the same" moment, I must decide what life will be. I guess I could keep the house clean. I could do the laundry. I could start going to the gym regularly. I could volunteer in his classroom. I could read more, and it could be a book without pictures. I could catch up on Lost or catch up on sleep. I could get a hair cut or a pedicure. I could have a lunch date with friends or even my sweetheart. I could take a class. I could garden or paint. I could write. I could shop. I could sit on the beach or walk through a park.

Wait, I have just had a moment...LIFE WILL NEVER BE THE SAME!!!!

Lost in Translation

2010-08-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

"Mom, we have got to go back to the Librarian. That was a fun time."
"Back to the Librarian? Sure, we can go back anytime."
"Mom, you are the best. Let's go tomorrow. I will wear my swim suit in case we get splashed."
"Silly, we won't get splashed if we go to see the Librarian."
"Sometimes people get splashed there."
"At the library?"
"No Mom, at the Librarian...you know the place with all the fish in tanks. Where we walk around and see sharks and catfish. The Librarian."
"Do you mean the Aquarium?"
"Oh...yeah that's what I mean. Hey, Emma! We are going to the Librar...Aquarium tomorrow."
"Wait, wait...we can't go to the Aquarium tomorrow."
"Buuuut Moooooom, you said. You are NOT the best ANYMORE!"

Eye Love You!!

2010-08-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

Eye Love You!!

Emma's Creative Juices, Pickle Juices That Is

2010-08-18T16:33:00.002-07:00

We had BLTs for dinner and Emma, not being fond of the L or the T, asked if she could try a variation. We let her create her own sandwich, with the strict understanding that if she made it she had to eat it. Well, this is what she came up with. She calls it the PBPB...Peanut Butter, Pickle and Bacon...sandwich. We all had a bite and then she finished it off. I will admit that it wasn't half bad. I asked her if she would ever make it again and she replied..."Would I have to eat it?"

The Cover Up

2010-08-18T16:33:00.001-07:00

As my big boys grow and mature their antics have decreased...or maybe a more accurate discription...their antics have changed. Gone are the turtle stealing, rock throwing, sink peeing little boys. They are now young men. They are more rational, thoughtful and mature...most of the time. Now they shoot each other with air rifles, jump off cliffs and kiss girls. They are still my block-head boys...just grown and (unfortunately for me) with more free will. The effect on my heart, however, whether they are young or older, is the same. I cherish them in all of their horrid "block-head boy" ways, and am constantly looking for new ways to protect them from the skinned knees, cactus spines and heart breaks of this crazy life.

Well, last Sunday Jasen treated me to a glimpse of his old "block-head boy" days. For a moment, rationality escaped him.

Saturday was a busy day. My youngest brother got married. The wedding was grand and the reception was grand and the whole, super long day was...well...just grand. We all had such a marvelous time together.

That night, as we rolled into our driveway around midnight I reminded the boys to lay out the clothes they wore to the wedding so that the next morning they could slip right into them for church. I figured they might be a little stinky and possibly even be sporting a little punch or cupcake damage, but nothing a wet wash cloth couldn't handle.

The next morning went exceptionally smooth. The kids all came down dressed in their wedding best, ready for church. I surveyed my lovely crew and sure enough noticed a few spots of wedding bliss that needed to be scrubbed out of the boys' shirts. I got a wash cloth, scrubbed a little chocolate mousse off of Spencer's collar, a little cousin goo-gaa off of Michael's shoulder and then went in search of Jasen. He was no where to be found. Sure to get him before we walked out the door I set about doing hair and filling bellies.

As we were herding our crew out the door I remembered Jasen's flawed white shirt and grabbed my trusty wash cloth. He stood still as I began scrubbing out what I thought was white frosting. It didn't budge. I scrubbed harder. Still no success. Odd. I moved on to the next patch of white frosting. It was as if someone had painted it on. WAIT A MINUTE!!!

"Jasen, did you put paint on your shirt?"
"No."
"Well, what is this? I can't scrub it off. Are you sure this isn't paint? DID YOU SERIOUSLY PUT PAINT ON YOUR SHIRT?"
-5 second pause-
"Yes I did. I thought it would work. There were a few small stains and I was just trying to cover them up and you were busy and...I'm sorry."

I took a deep breath and smiled. After all, it couldn't be fixed, it wasn't malicious, it didn't hurt anyone...and we were going to be late for church.

As we climbed into the van I whispered into his ear.
"Wouldn't it have been easier to just wash out the stain? I was there to help you."
"It would have. I see that now, it's just...I thought it would work. I really am sorry."

A bit of my heart ached for his babyhood. I was there to help him out of a bind. Standing ready to clean up his mess. He chose to fix things on his own, my young man, growing up. He went about things his own way. While it may not have been my solution to the problem, or even the best solution, it was very apparent to me that he doesn't need me as much anymore.

That is until next Sunday when he will be wanting a new shirt!

My Block-Head Boys!

A Day at the Beach

2010-08-18T09:31:00.001-07:00

Michael and Taylor Stones-8/14/2010

2010-08-18T08:57:00.000-07:00

Customize your own free picture collage

The Stones Clan

2010-08-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

Andrea, Ben, Michael, Jasen, Emma and Spencer Dawson

Michael and Taylor Stones

Breanne and Ben Newson

Erica, Rich, A and E Lundgreen

Mathew, Andrea, Andrew, Mylie and Wyatt Stones

ROCK BAND PARTY

2010-08-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

On one night of our Family Reunion we had a Rock Band party. Everyone took a turn,even Mom and Dad. We also celebrated Andrew and Jasen's birthday!! It was a lot of loud and silly fun!!

Cousins in San Clemente

2010-08-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

Jasen is a TEENAGER!!

2010-08-16T16:44:00.000-07:00

TEENAGER!!

Happy Birthday Jasen!!

You are a light in our lives!!

We just adore this great kid!!!

Michael Has Learned...

2010-08-06T07:42:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone... It's Michael. Just got back from the jambo and I thought I might as well get some things down so I don't forget.

Over the last 2 weeks I've been gone, I've learned many things....
.At the jambo, 1 day can feel longer than 2 weeks.
.In Time Square 2 hours feels like 30 minutes.
.Boy Scouts are kinda gross... but they rock all the same.
.Matthew Bowden doesnt snore.
.My parents are truly amazing!
.I love my girlfriend very much.
.It's all good if you hang a coat hanger on a fire sprinkler... you'll just have to stay up for a couple more hours out on the street.
.Ex-wives arent really that bad.
.Hooters welcomes Boy Scouts.
.Moses will be president right after Eric Lissner.
.Ben Franklin looks pretty fly in neon green sunglasses.
.The Blue Man Group likes to eat gumballs and Twinkies.
.Watching Psych is best at 3 in the morning.
.I finally know who Swichfoot is.
.The Statue of Liberty isn't as big as it looks on the postcards.
.Troop 814 can totally break into the White House.
.It's amazing what you can't do on a bus for 4 hours.
.D&D is a great way to pass the time.
.Sometimes the best sports jersey in no shirt at all.
.One of the best ways to get the boys together???... The Simpsons Movie in room 218!
.Kermit the Frog has faded with age.
.I make the scout uniform look good!
.Ugg patrol is the best and you know it!
.Don't try to towel change in public. Especially when Malcolm is around....
.Sometimes the best bed is a dozen duffle bags.
.Garth Despain is a great man.
.A Scout Master gets a free pass to heaven.
.Merit Badges are over-rated.
.When the sign says "Estimated 2 hours" it really means 6.
.Always bring your poncho.
.Shotgun is easy...bring it Daddy!
.I can sew a button on.
.That wasn't the chili we ate on Friday...was it?
.It's hard to juggle batteries!
.All 12 year olds are annoying, not just my brother.
.What is a kiosk? Really?
.The ARMY is pretty lame....Ooooo-raah!!
.Mike Rowe(Dirtiest Jobs) is a pretty chill dude.
.Don't trade with Russians.
.A Scout is clean??
.Community Prayer is the best... Especially with a group of guys you just met.
.Solar panels are amazing... flat-up.

But one of the most important things I learned on my trip is that I now have 33 more brothers!

50 Things You May Not Know About Me

2010-07-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

1. I get butterflies when I see Ben’s name on my caller ID.
2. I sing at the top of my lungs in my van.
3. I wish I looked on the outside the way I feel on the inside.
4. I love working at the school and knowing the staff and teachers.
5. I have read the Book of Mormon 4 times…almost 5.
6. Mothering my kids has been the best thing I have EVER done, and the hardest.
7. I was in a car accident and broke the side window out with my head...no long term damage...I think.
8. I am terrible at keeping in touch with friends when they move away, but I never forget them.
9. I love mangos.
10. I have a blast body boarding with my boys.
11. I would love to parachute one day.
12. I have a secret fear of foreign travel...but I want to get over it.
13. I have eaten shark, squid and octopus and I am not a huge fan of seafood.
14. Almond Joys are my favorite candy bar.
15. Root beer is my favorite soda pop, with Strawberry Fanta a close second.
16. I don't drink caffeine.
17. My right ear has 2 piercings and my left has 4, but I only ever wear one pair of earrings now.
18. I have a really hard time talking on the phone...I need body language cues to be comfortable in a conversation.
19. I have been a 1st responder to three different car accidents, two of which changed me forever.
20. I was a terrible college student, until I had to pay for it myself and then...straight A's.
21. I had a mad crush on my History professor. He called and asked me out after the semester was over. I had just gotten married.
22. I failed Chemistry my Junior year of High School and had to take it again as a Senior.
23. In High School I lettered in Theater, Basketball (I managed the Varsity boys team, ooo-la-la), and believe it or not...Business.
24. I lived in the Pineview Apts. in Rexburg, Idaho as a Freshman and Sophomore at Ricks College.
25. When I was 17, my best friend, Tami and I drove from Longmont, Co to Colorado Springs, Co in a cherry red convertible...in bikinis...during rush hour.
26. I have cruised Main St. in Longmont, Co probably close to 400 times.
27. I have never been arrested.
28. I have never gotten a tattoo.
29. I love semi-sweet chocolate chips.
30. I want to write a book some day.
31. I have been the stage manager for many high school and community theater productions.
32. I hate to dust and mate socks.
33. When I retire I want to have chickens.
34. I don't know enough about politics...it embarrasses me...and it should.
35. Staying busy keeps me from the brink of depression.
36. I am afraid of Black Widows.
37. I love having the Elders over for dinner.
38. Sometimes I fall asleep saying my prayers.
39. I have been skinny-dipping.
40. I had to look up "got vs. gotten" to be grammatically correct.
41. I make friends easily but I often feel shy. I avoid confrontation like the plague.
42. I love musicals. Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is my favorite.
43. Bee stings make me swell HUGE.
44. I am a divorcee and I am so glad.
45. I read Twilight years before it was cool.
46. I have permanent retainers on the back of both my top and bottom teeth.
47. I love the Food Network.
48. I don't know how to do a cart-wheel.
49. I won a fire starting contest the same day that I won an archery contest.
50. I fantasize about clandestine rendezvous. (With my one and only, of course!)

Living The Dream

2010-07-26T07:39:00.001-07:00

I walked into the kitchen today and found Spencer drinking out of a 2-liter rootbeer bottle. I scolded. He explained that his dad had given him the bottle and asked him to "kill" the remaining rootbeer. I partly apologized but still reinforced to him the yuckiness of germ sharing. He nodded his understanding and then continued to "kill" the leftovers. When he finished he handed me the bottle and walked into the front room whispering to himself, "Yeah, livin' the dream!"

Humbled

2010-07-22T17:01:00.000-07:00

Wow, my last post was a huge pitty party.

Thanks for coming.

I am embarrassed, especially since emily, the origin of the embrace the camera idea somehow read my post. I feel like a jerk.

To Emily:
I apologize for tainting your great idea and challenge with my issues.

To the rest of you:
I apologize for spouting my insecurities all over my blog. My kids do deserve to have pictures of me. If I don't like what I look like in pictures then it is up to me to do something about that.

I will try!

When you see pictures of me on this blog please note them...they will come at a huge personal sacrifice.

Embrace The Camera?? Not On Your Life!

2010-07-22T10:53:00.000-07:00

I just read a really great post on someone else's blog

...super cute and inspiring...

about making sure you take pictures of yourself with your kids.

"Mom's are always behind the camera...kids need/want pictures of themselves with their mothers."

I read some of the comments made by her blog followers and was inspired by the overwhelming support of the idea to photo-document not only a child's life but also a child's life with his mother, regardless of slept in velour pant suits or greasy hair.

I raised my hand in support and felt a swell of pride and community when I read about setting your camera on timer mode at least once every day this week.

I was inspired...for about 5 seconds.

It was then that I noticed that all the followers who had commented looked...well like the blogger herself...lovely. Why wouldn't you want to take pictures of yourself, in your thin bodies, perfect hair and darling clothes. Of course you can jump on that bus.

Seriously, that horrid slept in velour pant suit and greasy hair look is what I look like on a good day!

I don't want pictures of me right now...especially for my kids to look back on.

I don't want them to remember what I look like,

overweight and exhausted.

I will spend my time building solid happy memories for my children instead. Memories that after 20 years will be slightly maleable.

"Remember when we played on the Slip N' Slide for hours... and I was wearing a bikini and super tan?"

"Remember that time we did each other's nails and make up... and I was thin and had fresh highlights in my hair?"

See, I don't see anything wrong with this.

I aknowledge my selfishness and insecurities to a point but I am still photo-documenting my children's lives...have you noticed much? I just don't feel like initiating the camera's self timer at this point in my dirty clothes, stringy hair, pimple faced, chubby body life.

I can not embrace the camera!

However,

I think I may take the "embrace the camera" challenge to heart and shoot for 6 months from now. Thanks for the wake up call Emily!

Some Of My Summer Favorites!

2010-07-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

Fish vs. Fruit

2010-07-21T09:57:00.001-07:00

Emma and Spencer went to a fun birthday party on Saturday. When they came home they were the proud owners of seven, yes SEVEN, goldfish. Now, while I love fish...they require very little care and can be eaten in an emergency...I didn't have adequate housing for SEVEN goldfish. I emptied out my large hurricane vase that I had filled with citrus fruit on the table and added water+fish to make a new and ever changing centerpiece. It was a quick fix and let's be honest...goldfish don't last that long.

On Sunday, after Primary, Emma came bounding up to me waving a small scrap of paper in her hand.

In one seven year old breath: "I told Sister J about my new fish. I told her that we didn't have a home for them so you put them in the fruit jar. I told her that I was sad that we didn't get to have fruit anymore. She was sad too. She said kids need to eat fruit. She told me that she had a fish tank we could have so that we could have fruit again. Here is her number."

She skipped away happily.

I hate it when my kids make me feel like and, even worse, look like a delinquent parent. WE STILL HAVE FRUIT!! It's just in the fridge.

I am definitely getting the Mom of the Year Award, this year. Thanks a lot, stinkin' goldfish.

Grandma and Grandpa Dawson Come to California

2010-07-19T13:37:00.001-07:00

This last weekend we had such a wonderful visit with Ben's parents. Even though we ran around so busy, running errands, watching soccer games and chasing kids we enjoyed their help and company. Joyce caught me up on laundry and Lowell patiently listened to the kids tell him all about their lives. We watched Michael play soccer, welcomed Jasen home from camp, had a cook out on the beach and even walked the pier during San Clemente's Ocean Festival. It was a lot of fun! Thanks Mom and Dad!! Come again!! The sooner the better!!

DISNEYLAND-2010

2010-07-16T13:24:00.000-07:00

My wonderful Aunt Sandy and my fantabulous cousins, Jonathan and Michelle came to stay with my kids while Ben and I flew out to Colorado for the funeral. While they were here they took Emma, Spencer and Michael to Disneyland. (Jasen is still away at summer camp.) The kids had a blast. Pictures really can say a thousand words but no words can describe how much it meant to me. I didn't worry about my kids the entire time I was gone. Knowing that they were having the time of their lives made it so much easier. Thank you Sandy, Michelle, Jonathan and Frank! Thank you so much!!

Freedom Fighter

2010-07-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

Ben brought some native Afghan head gear home from his deployment and Spencer has been wearing it around the house and the neighborhood for the last week. It scares me but Ben and Michael think it is hysterical and call him their little Freedom Fighter.

Shark Bait

2010-07-13T21:13:00.000-07:00

Michael caught a sand shark off of the San Clemente Pier tonight. He was fishing with our ward Young Men's group and got lucky! Spencer, who got to go and hang out with his big brother and Dad, was super excited to go fishing and even more excited to touch a real shark!!

My Roller-coaster Ride

2010-07-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

This has been a difficult week for me. If ever the phrase "roller-coaster" applied to one's emotional state, this would be the week. The highs and lows have been extreme; quick to begin and slower to end. My tears still come slowly but so does my patience. I am quick to love but equally quick to snap and bite.

Ben is home and on 12 days of leave. I am so happy. I am so lucky. I have my best friend to hold me and love and laugh with me. I have my help-mate to clean with me and drive a lot. I have a hero to hold on to in pride. I get lost in his smile and get school girl chills when his foot finds mine under the dinner table. It is wonderful.

Aaron is gone. I am so sad. I am so robbed. I miss him more than I ever have, knowing that I won't enjoy his company again in this life. I have fresh, unearthed memories. I have injured and confused children. I have sleepless nights and exhausting days. I get lost in the condolences and explanations. It is grievous.

Now weave them together and add a little bit more.

Ben is home and on 12 days of leave. Aaron is gone. I am so happy. I am so sad. I am so lucky. I have been robbed. My twelve year old is away and I miss him to aching. I have my best friend to hold me and love and laugh with me. I miss him more than I ever have, knowing that I won't enjoy his company again in this life. My teenager is walking a precarious morale line. I have my help-mate to clean with me and drive a lot. I have fresh, unearthed memories. I am overwhelmed by up and coming events like Jamboree and weddings. I have a hero to hold on to in pride. I have injured children and sleepless nights. I have logistics to sort out like art camps, soccer practices, Young Men's, soccer games, doctors appointments. I get lost in his smile and get school girl chills when his foot finds mine under the dinner table. I get lost in the condolences and explanations. It is heavy. It is wonderful. It is grievous.

I am exhausted.

And in the meantime, nothing is getting done. The laundry is piling up, the bathrooms aren't clean, there is no milk in fridge and the floor is in desperate need of the vacuum. My plants are dying and I haven't checked the mailbox in a week.

I know it won't last forever. I know I am simply suffering through the typical textbook grieving pattern. I know that I am not alone and that I am loved and that this is all apart of a greater plan. My faith is not wavering and my knowledge is sure. I am just so very tired. I am ready to get off of this roller-coaster ride.

Pictures of Aaron

2010-07-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

Effervescent Balderdash-Aaron Lawrence Stones

2010-07-10T09:28:00.000-07:00

My little brother, Aaron, passed away last week. It was a shock and a tragedy. He was 28 years old. Ben and I were able to attend his funeral on Monday and I was asked to give the eulogy. With the help of family, friends and my Heavenly Father I was able to put something together that I could share.

Effervescent Balderdash

When we get together as a family we like to play games. One game we love is called Balderdash. A word is chosen and then each player must create a possible definition for that word. In one of these game nights “Frilly frothy foam for fancy fair” was created. I have been thinking about those game nights…that game particularly. What if we all had to create a possible definition for Aaron. I asked my family for some single word descriptions of Aaron-words they felt defined him-and I would like to share a few of their ideas with you.

One of my mother’s definition words for Aaron is Precocious. As a small child Aaron was an escape artist. On one particular occasion Mom laid Aaron down in his crib for a nap. He settled right in and seemed to be off to sleep so she tip toed out of the room and went down to the basement to work on the laundry. Aaron had her fooled. As soon as she was gone he climbed out of his crib and made his way out the bedroom door. Mom came up to check on him a few minutes later and found the crib empty. She rushed around the house looking for him without any success. Her panicked searches finally took her to the backyard where she found Aaron dangling by his diaper, from the top of the chain link fence.

As a teenager and even an adult this characteristic changed slightly and became adventuresome. Aaron was an Eagle Scout. He caught fish with his bare hands…in a river. He could start a fire by rubbing two sticks together. He hiked the Front Range with his brothers and loved to go camping.
Whether he was pressing a transformer down into the middle of a wedding cake or luging down the hills of Boulder, Aaron has always had an amazing adventurer inside him.

Michael David had a great word description for Aaron. His word is Fun-loving. Now if you know Aaron at all then you have surely experienced his fantastic sense of humor. To be with Aaron was to be encompassed in his pranks, jokes and witty banter. And he could take a joke just as well. I remember Aaron allowing his sisters to dress him up in dresses and make up, ringlets and bows included, just for laughs. His light hearted nature didn’t only extend to jokes however. My sons recently confessed that when they were 3 and 5 years old Aaron would often sneak them into his room to have “jump on the bed” parties, because regardless of rules, all kids needed to jump on beds. He knew how to change a frown into a smile.
My sweetheart Ben remembers a Casa Bonita scone eating contest between himself, Mathew, Michael and Aaron. They ate until Brea threw up. Aaron was always ready for fun.

One of Breanne’s descriptive words for Aaron is talented. He was so very talented. Aaron was a gifted artist. He found great joy in painting and sketching. His written word was deep and moving. Mathew has spent some time in the last few days going through some of Aaron’s sketchbooks and journals. He expressed a greater appreciation and respect for his talent and called him ‘great.’ Coming from Mathew, that means a lot.

Aaron was also very gifted in music. He sung in his High School’s elite choir and he taught himself to play the guitar and banjo. I have many memories of Aaron and his guitar. Our family had a reunion at Bear Lake, Utah a few years ago. One evening we had a talent show. When it was Aaron’s turn to ‘show off’ he sat quietly on the ground, cradled his guitar and began to play. Soon, he was surrounded by all of his nieces, nephews and cousins. It is an image I won’t soon forget. Another time I was whining to Aaron about how I wanted a song with my name in it. I think this was right after Mambo #5 came out and there was “a little bit of Erica all night long.” Seriously, I’ve wanted my name to be Sara or Beth for years. He promised me that one day he would write a song just for me…and he did. Every time I saw Aaron he played me my song. It was a beautiful, rich and happy piece and while I will miss hearing it, I will never forget it. His talent has been etched into my memory.

My sister and Mathew’s wonderful wife, Andi described Aaron as genuine and accepting. Aaron was real. He was comfortable with who he was. He was quirky and silly and he never tried to change that. Even more endearing, he never tried to change anyone else. Aaron loved diversity and respected differences. He saw past physical appearances and focused on what lie beneath. He could be friends with the roughest looking characters and in the same day embrace the Bishop. I never felt judged or misunderstood by Aaron. Erica said, “Aaron had the ability to look me in the eye and make me feel like I was his soul focus, I could feel with a look that he loved me.”

Speaking of Erica, her descriptive word for Aaron was gentle. She shared an experience with me. A few years ago she and Aaron had a disagreement. They raised their voices and stormed to their separate corners, like sibling do. The fight bothered her and she decided to apologize. As she walked out of her room Aaron was standing there. He had tears in his eyes. Before she could utter a word he apologized for the fight and told her how much she meant to him.

Aaron worked at City Bark and he spent his days caring for dogs. I found a fun face-book post that described his feelings for City Bark. His status read “I just cleaned up the combined 'mess' of 20 dogs. Nearly every color of the rainbow... I still love my job!” Aaron loved working there. He loved the people he worked with and he loved the animals.

I spoke to him a few months ago about his puppy Charlotte and all the dogs he worked with. He spoke of them with love. I asked him how many times he had been bitten and he said, “Like gazillions…but they usually only bite if they are hurt, scared or confused. I don’t hold it against them.” I am telling you that I would hold it against them.

In going through some of Aaron’s things my family came across one of his performance reviews from work. It read, “Aaron has great dog handling skills. I have never seen him raise his voice to any dog for any reason. He has a way with our customers as well and they really like him. They go home knowing that he knows their dog and gives them the best care he can.”

Mat’s descriptive word for Aaron takes a little explaining. When Aaron was 4 years old he created the imaginary world of the Canafantines. I remember the song he would sing to himself, or anyone that would listen, “Canafan-tinafan-canafan-tinafan…” The Canafantines were a race of superheroes. He wore his Superman cape so much that it was ragged playing Canafantines. As Aaron grew he never forgot about his imaginary world and spent time giving the characters names and lives. Recently, Aaron asked Mat and Michael to collaborate on a book about the Canafantines. They created an outline and even added artwork to their ideas. One of the things Aaron had to teach Mat and Michael was how to create a Canafantine name. A Canafantine is named by morphing multiple positive personality traits into a single word. Mat chose his descriptive word for Aaron the same way. Aaron is charmically clevereative: a combination of charm, comical, clever and creative. . Mathew and Michael have vowed to finish Aaron’s book.

Dad’s definitive word for Aaron is effervescent. I love that. Effervescent. To me, effervescent ties all of his other definitive traits together. I imagine Aaron standing on the stage at Niwot High School after winning the Mr. Cougar honor, which was basically a popularity contest. I imagine him throwing Andrew and Mylie into the swimming pool, as they squealed in delight. I imagine his laugh and the way that people were drawn to him. He was the life of the party, even if there wasn’t a party. I imagine his outstanding performance as Dartanian, in the Three Musketeers, which by the way, I found out he only tried out for so that he could play with the swords. I envision his glow as he held his new niece Evelyn for the first time. I remember his welcoming hugs, that always felt like coming home to me. I can hear his laugh in my mind and imagine the twinkle in his eye. Aaron was effervescent.

My oldest son Michael wrote a letter that he has asked me to read.

Dear Uncle Geek,

I miss you already. Grandpa sent me a page from your journal from way back in 1997, when you were my age. I read it. You said to “stay strong or get strong.” I am making this my motto. I want you to know that.
I found a song that I know you would like. It is by Chester Bennington’s new band. The song is called Fire and it goes like this:

No need to hear your voice
Or see your face
To know that you are with me
No need to kiss your lips
Or hold your hand
To know that you can feel me
I know that you can feel me

When I look to the stars
I know just where you are
You're looking down upon me
When I look to the stars
I know just where you are
You're looking down upon me

No need to get locked up
Inside the past
I know that isn't changing
No need to let you go
Or say goodbye
I know that you'll be waiting

When I look to the stars
I know just where you are
You're looking down upon me

Uncle Aaron I love you and I will honor you by “staying strong.”
Love,
Michael Dawson, your awesomest nephew

Wow, he’s a humble kid…but seriously Michael is right. We should honor Aaron. We should honor him by incorporating his positive and definitive traits into our lives. We should strive to be gentler. We should strive to be more accepting. We should strive to be more fun-loving. We should strive to make life an adventure. We should be grateful for our talents and use them. We should be charmically clevereative. Aaron was a wonderful example to all of us.

The final definitive trait that I would like to share with you is one that I have chosen. The word I have chosen is loved. Aaron was loved. He is loved. I have been moved by the outpouring of love that my family has received via email and over face-book. I am touched by the kind gestures of friends and extending family. Thank you for loving my family. Thank you all for loving my brother.

Saying good bye is part of our human experience, it is part of our heritage. Our farewells strengthen our faith and bind us together as families. The point of our existence is to live in a way that would bring us back to live with our Heavenly Father and our family who we have left for a time. And the one thing that makes these good byes bearable to me is knowing that they are temporary. I believe I will hear Aaron play my song again. I testify of this. I thank you all again and I say these things in the name of my Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.

BEN IS HOME!!!

2010-07-07T09:47:00.000-07:00

Ben is finally home!! We had the best 4th of July!!!

Fun in Afghanistan

2010-06-24T16:30:00.000-07:00

Ben had many opportunities to play on the ranges.

Afghan Police Recruits

Hand to hand combat training!

Ben's room.

Air conditioning!

Flying to Afghanistan.

Always comfortable!

Ben Dawson, you are our Hero!! Keep Smiling!!

Spencer-Preschool Graduate

2010-06-18T01:18:00.000-07:00

Michael's Seminary Party

2010-06-17T21:28:00.000-07:00

Michael got 100% Attendance his Freshman year of Seminary and he loved it!!

The Devil Made Me Do It!

2010-06-17T20:38:00.000-07:00

Spencer came home from preschool on Monday with a "blue slip." Blue is bad. I asked him what went wrong? His response:
"I was just SO WILD! I don't know what happened. I was just WILD all over the place. I mean WILD, Mom...really WILD." He didn't seem very repentant...mostly just bewildered.
As a punishment I sent him to his room explaining that WILD children with no self control need time to chill out in a boring, quiet place. He was not happy.

About 10 minutes later I walked upstairs to check on him. As I approached his room the quiet led me to believe that he had fallen asleep on his bed. After all, being WILD, as we all know, can be exhausting. I peeked into his room, anticipating the sweet innocence of a babe in slumber and was shocked to find the room empty. I checked the bathroom...empty. I checked my room...empty. I pushed open the door to Jasen's room just as my WILD five year old went over the window sill and out onto the roof.

"WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING?" I bellowed.
He turned around nonchalantly and raised his hands, palms up and shrugged. "It was my only choice Mom. My only choice."
It was then that I noticed his backpack, overflowing with books, toys and a flashlight.
"Are you running away?"
"No!"
"Well, where do you think you are going?"
He paused and rolled his eyes at my stupidity. "To the roof, Mom."

He spent a lot of time in his room that day...with all the windows locked. I am not sure what possessed him to be so WILD in class or feel as if his only choice was to hang out on the roof but maybe it was the same thing that possessed me to tell him that if he ever went on the roof again I would call the police and report a burglar.

Some Girls Get All The Breaks!

2010-06-17T19:41:00.000-07:00

On Monday, for Family Home Evening, we met some friends on the beach for pizza and fun. Monday was a long day (please see "The Devil Made Me Do It") and we were all happy to be able to relax with friends. Emma made a beeline for the ocean, splashing and playing. Nearly 30 minutes into the fun Emma came limping up the beach.

From a distance, and through the mound of sand collected on her wet foot I could see the tell-tale blood red indicator of a run in with a rock. Sometimes, when the beach is rocky, waves will scoop up a rock or two and hurl them towards your bare feet. Scraps and bruises are almost always acceptable companions with days at the beach. It is just a fact of beach life.

She wasn't crying, just limping and complaining. I yelled down to her to "turn around and let the cold ocean water clean it out and numb it up." She went back down to the water. She only lasted a few more minutes before she turned back around and made her way up the beach. As she hobbled closer I could tell from her face that she was in pain.

"Mom, could you please run to the Commissary and get me a water-proof band aid?" Her request, while ridiculous, was simple and seemed to downplay any real injury she might have. I led her to the van where I propped her foot up and dumped a bottle of water over it to clean off the sand and get a better look. When the sand cleared I could feel the blood drain from my face. Her pinkie toe was scraped and bloody but also jutting out from her foot at a 45 degree angle. NOT NORMAL!!

Needless to say, we packed it up. I dropped the boys off at home and, with my wonderful friend Sara, spent the next couple of hours with Emma in the ER. They x-rayed her, cleaned her, numbed her, set her, taped her and sent her home! She was very disappointed to leave without crutches but happy to have a print out of her x-ray to show off to all the world!

This is called an appendage deformation...YOU THINK?

This is called a "fracture and dislocation."

Please note that this x-ray was taken during a 5.7 earthquake and it isn't even blurry!!

This is called "an angel!" She was delightful nearly the entire time. She wasn't crazy about getting shots to numb the toe but she was a little crazy about the handsome red-headed doctor we had!

This is her toe 2 days later. She enjoyed a fun filled "field day" today at school. I am amazed that she can even walk but it doesn't seem to be slowing her down one bit. She is amazing!!

Good Fortune or Miracles...They Are the Same To Us!

2010-06-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks our little family has been richly blessed.

First of all, three weeks ago we received word that Michael has been anonymously sponsored by one of our San Clemente 1st Ward friends to attend the National Boy Scout Jamboree, taking place the last week of July in Washington, D.C. This is a chance of a lifetime and over $3300. His troop is leaving on July 21st and touring New York City and Philadelphia before making their way to D.C where they will take part in all of the amazing festivities. They get home around August 4th. Michael is so excited and is making new friends quickly in his Jambo troop!http://www.bsajamboree.org/

Second major blessing, Jasen entered an essay contest and won a full scholarship to Yosemite Sierra Summer Camp, $2400. He wrote about why he wanted to go away to a summer camp in Yosemite and his 15 minutes of minimal effort paid off majorly. He gets to spend 2 weeks kayaking, hiking, mountain boarding and so much more. He leaves on the 5th of July, only two days after getting home from Scout Camp. He is so excited, especially since one of his buddies also won. They will be roomies.http://www.yssc.com/

I feel like the heavens have opened and are raining down blessing upon us!! It has been a good couple of weeks for the Dawsons!!

Jasen's Science Project

2010-06-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

Jasen's 7th Grade Science Project was titled "To Be Full Or Not To Be Full, That Is The Question." He tested the distance a kicked soccer ball would travel, depending on it's air pressure. He invented and then helped build a kicking machine to ensure each soccer ball would be kicked with equal force and then performed multiple tests, measuring the distance the balls flew across the yard. He did a great job and learned alot. In case you are wondering, a soccer ball filled to it's suggested PSI will travel the farthest...go figure.

The Small and Simple Things

2010-06-01T09:05:00.000-07:00

Over the last few weeks I have had the enormous pleasure of having a bird's nest in a bird house on my front porch. The kids and I have found such joy in listening the the sounds of baby birds. We sit on the front porch and smile at the frenzied "tweets" that fill the yard as 'Mother' arrives with a juicy bug. The baby bird sounds are nearly constant, and while to some it may seem grating or terribly annoying, I find it very maternally satisfying.

This morning, there was a bit of commotion on the front porch. One of "our" babies had ventured out of the bird house and tumbled from his perch. He wasn't strong enough to fly back and so he hopped about on the ground and low bushes. We were all delighted and watched him happily from a distance...until he made his way to the street. I intervened. He jumped aboard a stick I offered and I gave him a lift up to his front stoop. He sat there for a moment and then hopped back into the safety of the nest. All is right again with the world...and I was a bit of a hero to my kids. Isn't motherhood grand!
We loving refer to him now as Ferris, as he had a "Day Off" and was very bold and a little silly.

Punch Drunk Love

2010-06-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

My Magic Man!

2010-05-23T17:36:00.001-07:00

It was a hard morning. Sunday mornings usually are. Getting everyone ready for the day is typical, but throwing myself into the "get ready" mix, and adding the extra pomp of church clothes always seems to create a underlying layer of complication. People, especially those over 30, are more rushed and more grouchy. Unfortunately, that attitude stayed with me today as I walked into church. I gave looks of death and threatened horrible fates in dark and sinister tones as we entered the pew and sat down. My brood sat quietly, in fear for their very lives.

During the passing of the Sacrament, the most reverent and sacred moment of our entire Sunday service, Spencer leaned over and tugged urgently on my sleeve. I looked down and could instantly see by the look in his eyes, extreme excitement and delight. My initial thought was "where is the ice cream, or the puppy, or Ben?" I leaned over until my ear was in whisper range of his little grinning mouth.

"Holy crap, Mom, you aren't gonna believe this!" (I must interject here by apologizing for his irreverent and inappropriate language, that he most assuredly picked up from me.) "I am totally magic. I promise I am, I am."

He was nearly convulsing with excitement at this point, and I was actually concerned that he might forget his whispers and shout out, at which point I would be forced to throttle him in public. I hushed him gently, wrapped my arm around him, to keep him from blasting off and leaned in closer.

"Mom, mom, mom...when I close my eyes I make the lights turn off." He interpreted my stare as amazement...he interpreted incorrectly. "I know, it's awesome, huh? And, and, and...the lights turn back on when I open my eyes." He sat back from me then, folded his arms across his chest proudly and waited for my "Hallelujah!"

I stared at him for a moment longer, wondering how this innocent babe would ever survive the California public school system and then I burst into a silent spree of laughter. Tears rolled down my cheeks and my shoulders shook. To an onlooker I may have simply looked VERY repentant. I was a little repentant but mostly I was tickled. He was pleased that he brought me so much joy and hugged me hard and long. My spirits lifted and the rest of the day has been great.

I guess Spencer is a little bit magic after all.

Quirky Much?

2010-05-21T22:03:00.000-07:00

Spencer bought these glasses at the $1 store last week with his allowance. He has been dying for a pair of glasses(???) and so when he saw these readers that were in his price range he was ecstatic and has worn them off and on every day since. The coolness of the glasses increased when he realized that they were foldable and came with their own case, about the size of a pack of gum. Whether he is wearing them or not, you can bet that they are on his person.

Everyone comments at how fabulous he looks in his "new" glasses. I'm afraid he will never get rid of them. All it will take is one person to tell him how goofy he really looks and they will be banished to the dress-up box. Any takers?

He has also decided that if he eats his breakfast with two spoons he will get done faster and be able to watch cartoons before school. While it hasn't happened yet, we all remain hopeful.

Going Buggy

2010-05-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Emma performed in the 2nd grade play "Going Buggy" last night and she was a huge star!! She played Little Miss Muffet and ran screaming from the stage! We are so proud of our little drama queen and look forward to her next performance, wither it be on stage or just belting out broadway in the bathroom!! We love you Emma!!

Miss Muffet and the Spider! Such good buddies!!

Little Miss Muffet

The Fatherless Son's Campout

2010-05-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

This blog entry is a shout out to all of the fabulous men in my ward. In a ward incorporating a military base you are bound to find fathers/husbands deployed at any given time. Men of all ages and with all different life experiences step up to the plate to teach, guide and mentor the young "fatherless" children of the ward. There is no greater example of this than at the Father's and Son's Ward Campout.

Priesthood opening exercises becomes a bidding war of who will get to take the "fatherless" on the camping trip..."Two Dawson boys, two Dawson boys, do I hear three, three Dawson boys going once, twice, sold to the brave young father of an infant daughter in the back."

I can think of 10 "fatherless" boys who were quickly fought over and divied out for the testosterone festivities. My boys were so excited. I was so excited for them.

I did however take my precautions.

After all the fire peeing, the belching and flatulating, the ab comparing and sword fighting, the surfing and sand rolling, the smore making and scary story telling had come to an end my boys were so happy. They were given something that I was unable to provide. Man time!!

Doctrine and Covenants 136:8

Thank you San Clemente 1st Ward men for taking care of my boys! It meant more than you know!!

Procrastination-My friend!!

2010-05-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up to a lake in my kitchen. A frigid, arctic lake. I love lakes. Lakes are usually lovely, serene and filled with nature's miracles. My kitchen lake, however, was NOT serene, far from lovely and filled with the bits of food, trash and a magnetic "G" that floated out from under the fridge.

It seems that at some point last evening the ice maker in my refrigerator malfunctioned and instead of creating ice cubes it just drizzled water all over my floor-ALL NIGHT LONG. Stopping the drizzle was easy enough but getting rid of the lake...not quite so simple.

Fortunately, I had my friend Procrastination on my side this morning. Instead of washing the last two loads of laundry last night (which happened to be two HUGE loads of towels) I played a Mystery Detective Computer Adventure. Thus, leaving MANY dirty towels for me to use for lake sopping. Yeah me, for putting off 'til tomorrow what could be done today!

If only I hadn't mopped the Mother's Day Ochango off of the floors...the lake and the dirty towels could have done it for me. See, I have learned a lot about the value of Procrastination this morning and I will be changing my life accordingly. I love you Procrastination, my friend!

Happy Mother's Day to Me!!

2010-05-10T19:39:00.001-07:00

Spencer: "Mom, I have an emergency. I farted and I think a little poop came out."

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ME!!

Emma: "Mom, the floor is sticky because I spilled a HUGE glass of Ochango on it. I will go get you your favorite mop."

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ME!!

Michael: "I puked all night long and I think the dishwasher is broken."

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ME!!

Jasen: "Oh, hey Mom, I forgot to wrap these presents you bought for yourself but here they are anyway. Just pretend that the Walmart bag is pretty."

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ME!!

Ben: "Happy Mother's Day darling. There are a few Afghans here who kinda want to kill me."

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ME!!

Me: "I am good enough, I am smart enough and dog-gone it...people like me!"

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ME!!

Art Show

2010-05-09T08:15:00.000-07:00

In 2011, art by Primary children around the world will appear in an exhibit at the Church History Museum, in Salt Lake City and in an online art show. Emma and Spencer were excited to participate. These are their entries!

"Families Can Be Together Forever"

"I Love To See The Temple"

Marines now filling in as NATO trainers

2010-05-07T22:15:00.000-07:00

Marines+now+filling+in+as+NATO+trainers

Dear Stomach Flu

2010-05-07T09:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Stomach Flu,

I am not sure if anyone has let you know but you are not a welcome visitor. The scheduled visitors this week are my Grandma Stones and my Aunt Melanie and I find it very rude that you just barge in, uninvited and unannounced.

Jasen was mortified that you showed up to meet him at school. Your gifts of vomiting and diarrhea should never have to be opened in public setting like school. He is grateful that you didn't hang out with him for long however.

Spencer on the other hand has had plenty of time with you and frankly, he has had enough. He is hungry and needs a nap. On top of it all, he is missing his Mother's Day party to hang out at home with you. You should be more considerate of people's schedules.

Emma didn't appreciate opening your first present at soccer practice in front of her team and I didn't enjoy cleaning up her second present late last night. I am not sure if you are aware but vomit covered blow dryers and curling irons are not desirable. Also, we try to avoid stains on the carpets here.

Michael and I are happy to have you leave without having received any of your gifts, and I am sure that Grandma and Melanie don't have room in their luggage to take you home to their place so please, go away and don't feel any obligation to return...EVER!!

Respectfully,
Andrea

The Dynamic Duo

2010-05-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

These two are a riot together!!

The Tide Pools

2010-05-06T18:54:00.001-07:00

Today the littles and I adventured to the Dana Point Harbor tide pools. My Grandma Stones and my Aunt Melanie are here visiting us in Southern California and we wanted them to see some of the local wild life. We saw lots of sea anenomes, barnacles, crabs, snails and even a sea star. It was lots of wet fun!

Grandma loved the sights and even touched a sea anenome! Melanie kept right up with the kids, got completely soaked and touched every creature they showed her. She is so much fun!! We have loved having them visit!!

Emma and Spencer squealed in delight at every discovery!

We love the Dana Point Harbor tide pools!

Ben in Afghanistan

2010-04-29T08:58:00.000-07:00

Finding Ben in these pictures is a lot like a "Where's Waldo" puzzle but he is there! These pictures are actually from the NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan website.