Wii like boxing

So this is Christmas

I feel like I have a ton to post about. Where to start?

Lets start with the fabulous day that was Christmas Eve. The lowlight would definitely have to be Brynnlee barfing all over me during the closing song of Sacrament meeting. Nothing like trying to keep string cheese and fruit snacks all balled up on your blouse while you run out of the chapel trying not to spill or let anyone else see what is going on. I distinctly remember running past the missionaries and hoping my skirt wasn't hiking up for the congretation to see as I was sprinting down the aisle. Luckily, I caught Kent Sanders as he was taking Colton into the family bathroom and he was kind enough to let me have it. Otherwise it would have been a long walk around the building. Many thanks to Cindy and Karen who, in the spirit of being compassionate friends, lugged my stuff, rounded up Kaden, and carried puke drenched clothing, coats, and tights to my car. Poor Brynnlee left church in just a diaper and neither of our coats were wearable. If taking your naked child to the car in 30 degree weather doesn't win you negligant mother of the year I don't know what could.

After that excitement the rest of the night and the next day were pretty uneventful, and I mean that in a good way. No more puke, or craziness. Christmas Eve Jeremy's family came over and we ate snacks, played games and of course read the Christmas Story. It was so cute that Ryan still wanted to act out the Nativity... but with only 3 boys (Brynnlee had long since gone to bed- and I don't think Spencer was feeling it) so maybe 2 willing boys- it would have been a feat. We opted to just read and all the kids took turns- even Kaden. He was so excited. I'm glad everyone was brave enough to still come over after the puking incident.

Christmas morning found Brynners feeling a little better and Kaden as excited as ever. I wish we could post video (if we can let me know) because Kaden was hilarious as he came downstairs. He first found the kitchen Santa left for Brynnlee and the we showed him his stocking. He loved the light saber and then was ecstatic about the camera until he picked it up. He puts his hand on his hip, scrunches his face and says "Why did he bring me a girl camera?!! I wanted a boy one."

Then he gets a huge smile... "Look Mom here's your girl camera Santa brought you!"

After we opened all our gifts we headed to Mike and Andrea's for breakfast. It was fun to see the kids together and how excited they all were to play together. After breakfast Mike set up the new Wii the boys got and we all took turns looking like idiots playing it. There is some other video you might enjoy. Me... boxing on the Wii. Jeremy has it and if we can figure it out we will post if for all to see, I have no pride. Kaden got really into the punching too and was celebrating his victory. After three rounds of boxing- I'm sad to admit- I was a little winded. Maybe I'll skip the gym and train on the Wii.

Christmas dinner was at Jeremy's parents and it was the traditional Beck family gathering minus the Thornes (but we'll see you next year). Kaden loved the Christmas crackers and wearing his hat. Brynnlee tore hers about 3 seconds later.

We had a great time and hope you all enjoyed your Holiday as well!!

Griswalds in Pasco

Ok. Here's the scoop. While delivering some Home Teacher treats, Jeremy and I stumbled upon this house on Campolina in Loviisa Farms. If you have a few spare minutes tonight or tomorrow you should definitely check it out. The pictures really don't do it justice. It is way more lit up than this. So go see it and post back letting me know what you think!

THE Photo

For the Locals... and anyone else I didn't send a Christmas Card to!

While talking to Lindsay today she enthusiastically told me how excited she was to get my Christmas Card. Confused I said "You got one, cuz I didn't send you one." (Tact was out the window today, it is the 21st of December).

Trying to cover up my blunder I explained to her how I was so busy this year that only sent out like 30 (acutally it was 32) cards, so only the family that lives far away got cards this year. HOW HUMILIATING. Nothing like telling a really great friend that you didn't bother with sending them Holiday Greetings this year.

Luckily, being the wonderful person she is Lindsay totally understood- or at least claimed to in order to spare my feelings. So for all of you out there that didn't get my card this year and I know there are a ton.... enjoy. You probably won't see one next year either.

As a side note, Blogger is not letting me post pictures at this time. I was going to include the picture from the card so you could have the whole experience of a Beck Christmas Card! Maybe tommorrow.

Merry Christmas!


The year has gone by so fast, and a lot has changed. Rather than give you every exciting detail we’ll just toss out a few highlights with our Top Ten List.

10. In September Kaden finally decided he wanted to be potty trained, just before for his 3rd birthday. We love the freedom of going to Costco and not getting one cart just for diapers.
9. We made three trips to Utah by car, with two kids, and one DVD player. A trip
in January and another in June were just for fun to visit family. Again in October we packed our bags and headed to the Beehive State for Melissa and Jason’s wedding.
8. Brynnlee has finally decided to join the world of conversation and grace us with her adorable voice and some ASL signs. She has ‘please’ and ‘more’ down, all she really needs to know to get through life.
7. Kaden learned to ride a ‘big boy bike’ this summer, true the training wheels are still attached but we have high hopes for our little daredevil. He is constantly talking about ramps and jumps and doing tricks. We, as parents, are content to stick with the training wheels for a while longer and skip a few ER trips.
6. Jeremy completed his first Triathlon in July. Alicia and Janae made the trip up to Pasco so Alicia could participate in the “Righteous Richland” with Jeremy. They both did great and are looking forward to doing it again next year.
5. In August we traveled to California, again by car. We had a fun visit with Tyler & Anne and the rest of the ‘California Becks’. We were lucky enough to take the Tyler Beck San Francisco tour, which included a stop at the Jelly Belly Factory. We also toured the Sacramento LDS Temple before the dedication, which Kaden really enjoyed.
4. Brynnlee turned one in September and Alicia and Adrienne were able to drive up for the celebration. Our baby grew so fast and had so many milestone achievements- the most recent being how to climb up chairs. This she learned as I neglected her in a desperate attempt to finish this list before New Years. Everyday she reminds us of the differences between boys and girls. Even though she’s a handful she melts our hearts like only a girl could.
3. Jeremy was promoted in February to Assistant Manager with Cingular. Then in November he was promoted again, this time as a Store Manager in Kennewick.
2. In October we got word that Jeremy is officially an “Approved Candidate” to be a State Farm Agent. We are now hoping for an office to open up nearby so we don’t have to plan a move in the next two years!
1. Our family is healthy and happy and we look forward to enjoying and sharing the Spirit of the Christmas Season. We wish you all the same!

Watch This!

My son is a little weird, this I know. But the last few weeks he has really outdone himself. While he's in the bathroom he will yell for you to come in. When you do, he says "Watch my funny trick."

The funny trick is reaching around and flushing the toilet while he is still sitting on it.

This started a while back and I thought the excitement would wear off, but it hasn't. Just this morning he comes down from bed to use the bathroom and beckons me in only so he can have and audience to watch his "Funny Trick".

He is so proud of this and he doesn't understand why Jeremy and I don't think this is hilarious and crack up like he does, every single time we see it. I'm serious, he sits in the bathroom and laughs his head off, like he has just given the winning performance on Last Comic Standing.

I don't know, maybe I'm just not cut out to be the mom of a boy. I just don't get the hilarity in the bathroom humor over and over and over and over again.

Christmas Here We Come

The Christmas cards are finally sent, hopefully none will come back.

The treats are all made, now they just need to be given away before we eat them all.

The presents are mostly bought, except for a Kid-Tough Digital Camera that I'm sure Santa won't be finding this late in the game.

The presents are halfway wrapped, just a few stragglers.

The food for the Christmas Eve is purchased and we'll see if it gets made before church lets out and our family is at our house before we are.

Only 5 more days to get all the loose ends wrapped up. Are you ready for the big day? I'm sure I'm not.

Merry Christmas!!

Don't bother smiling... Its just for the Annual Christmas Card

So here's what happens when you are running late to church and trying to get the Christmas Card photo (that you should have taken weeks ago) posed just right. Nothing like waiting until the last minute to get it all taken care of. OK - you other 6th Warders... Is it just me or is it harder and harder to be on time for 2:00 church. Seriously, where does the morning and half the afternoon go??

Red Robin- I don't know about you.

Last Friday we went out to eat with friends to celebrate a birthday. Red Robin is a fine family burger establishment, and the evening started out with us having a nice time chatting and deciding what to order. When my turn rolled around I opted for a new choice- the Santa Fe Burger. It sounded different and I was feeling a little adventurous.

The waiter asked, "Do you want any pink on that?"

"Pink on what?" is my reply.

"The burger."

"Is it even legal to serve it that way? No, I do NOT want to see any pink in my burger."

I was even more thoroughly grossed out after Megan told me she likes pink in hers. Really? People enjoy eating hamburger like that? Huh. I never would have guessed.

Everyones order was brought out and I tried a few fries before I endulged in my burger. As I picked it up to take a bite, which is quite a challenge for me with all the appliances in my mouth, I maneuver my mouth around the beast and bite down. Nothing. I tried again, to no avail. I set the burger down and pushed on the top bun with my finger- it didn't budge. I stuck my finger nail in it and couldn't hardly get through- that bun was officially a crouton.

Now, I'm not really a complainer, I promise. But burgers and sandwiches are a real ordeal to eat with braces (have you noticed that Tiff?). So, I figured I need all the help I can get. I get the waiters attention and tell him about the burger. He apologizes and takes it back. When the second burger finally arrives the manager brings it out with his apologies. Great. Since everyone is half finished, I take a huge bite to try and close the distance. Much to my dismay I pull the burger back only to find a huge flash of pink staring me in the eye.

"Are you serious?" I tell Jeremy.

It is all he can do to contain his laugher.

Now, really I'm NOT a complainer. And I would have just let this slide because I hate sending food back- if it weren't for the extensive conversation we had about pink with the waiter before hand. So for a second time I flag him down and tell him of my plight. Slightly annoyed he takes it back. A few minutes later another manager stops by the table and asks

"Who's the hungry guy here who's order I keep messing up?"

After everyone busts up laughing, I say "Yeah, the hungry guy would be me."

The manager looks a little embarrassed, so I add to the fire.

"Yeah, not only do you not get my burger right, but then you insult me as well. I love it."

He laughs and tells me they will take care of everything. Great. I'm really confidant in the promise.

So as everyone is finished and waiting, my third burger arrives. I tell the waiter thank you and he informs me he is going to wait for me to take a bite and approve before hes going to leave the table.

Oh, really.

I seriously hate eating in front of people because of the braces. I always have something stuck inbetween the mounds of metal in my mouth. So to have the whole table waiting with baited breath and the waiter with eyes glued on me was totally traumatic. Could there have been a more embarrassing situation? I don't know. I was totally mortified.

The burger was good, the meat being just above charcoal well-done. But after the whole night I just didn't have the appetite necessary to finish it. I declined a box when our waiter offered. Although maybe I should have just bagged it up so I didn't seem like such an ungrateful shrew.

They didn't charge me for the three burgers I ordered, and the company was good. I think the night was a success, don't you?

Is it a Small World???

Last night I watched Primetime and they were talking about the 6 degrees of separation. Basically, everyone in the world can be connected through 6 people, roughly. Jeremy and I were intruiged and so I got online to "play" this game.

So the target I have is a guy in Peru!! I'm not sure how I'm going to find him, but maybe I'll be pleasantly surprised. I'm up for the challenge. I've already got my contact into Marcus, since he did serve his mission there, and I'll let you know if anything else develops.

So here is some other information if anyone out there has any connections and wants to help! I could really use it.

Name: Gian (I'm not posting the whole name)
Gender: Male
Age range: 30-34
First Language: Spanish
Country: Peru
City: Santiago de Surco since 1990
State: Lima
Place(s) where this target has lived: Arequipa, Peru; 1981-1985
Other locations this target regularly visits:Quito, Ecuador; 1992-1995;
Fort Lauderdale; FL, USA; 1992-present; pleasure
Location of employment:Lima, Peru
Other industries: Entertainment, theater, tv, movies
Description of work: I'm a scene director for drama

Schools attended:IST John Logie Baird; Lima, Peru; 1989-1992
Universidad de Lima; Lima, Peru; 1987-1989
Colegio La Salle; Arequipa, Peru; high school; 1981-1986

And if you want to try this yourself, here is the link: http://smallworld.columbia.edu/index.html

Quentin, you aren't alone

So Jeremy and I found ourselves at the mall tonight for the 347th time this month. Seriously, I have been there more in the last 3 weeks than this whole entire year combined. Maybe even the last two years.

After the wonderful experience of getting 7 children to sit still long enough to snap a few pictures we headed to dinner at Azteca. It was great, but the best part was our nephew telling the waiter it was his mom's birthday (in Spanish) so she was unsuspecting when they came out with the sombrero and dessert. BTW thanks for saying hi Lins, wish I could have chatted.

Then on to JCP. I found an adorable skirt and using my JCPenny's coupon scored it for FREE! Gotta love that. Next, I headed over to the shoe department to find some suitable footwear for the winter. The strappy heels I currently have aren't cutting it in the freezing weather. I found some adorable heels and asked the associate to get the match from the back. After a really long wait he came back with the bad news. The shoes I had picked out weren't available. And when I say unavailable I mean someone else had sold two right shoes to another customer and so I was left with the remaining two left shoes. It would be my luck that that particular pair happened to be THE LAST in stock. However, the kind associate took my number and promised to call when the unsuspecting double righter came back to return their extra left. Get it? Got it? Good.

So you might be wondering about the post title. Well here is the part when I get to that. As Jeremy and I were walking out to our car we noticed the nice pregnant couple walking out before us. Then we notice all the people and flashing "Mall Security" lights fairly close to our car. Luckily all the commotion is in the next aisle over, but then we hear the pregnant couples dismay. Someone had forgotten to put their truck into PARK and it rolled into a Trailblazer which in turn was pushed into the unsuspecting pregnant couples Neon caving in the drivers side.

Apparently since the Christmas bustle ruins one's parking ability it would be safe to park uphill from the cars for the next few weeks. And to think that was the same parking spot we lost to another shopper just a few hours earlier... Merry Christmas to us.

Tree Redeemed

Well, the tree thawed out and it looks great. No fluffing necessary. It only took 6 days to decorate, not the 23rd of December decorating Karen predicted we would be pulling off. We may be a little delayed on all of the festivities but The Beck's get it done, eventually.

Last night we went to the boat parade. This year we ventured out to Howard Amon Park where we actually walked out on the dock and watched the boats from there. It was fun to see the boats up close, but it was SOOOO cold out on the water!!! Kaden loved all the boats honking and the people wishing us "Merry Christmas!"

It was fun but we wasted no time rushing home to enjoy some hot cocoa (with our gingerbread and eggnog creamers). We love that stuff! But what I love even more is when people don't put the lid on the creamer and you "shake before using" but that is another post.

Merry Christmas!!

Snap. Crackle. Pop.

Ok. Is it just me or does this happen to anyone else? Twice this week I have been going about my day when I heard the dreaded pop. No, not limbs being dislocated or bones broken, but the horrible sound of my underwire breaking.

Am I really that hard on them??? I mean I know they have a HUGE job to do but is this a common occurance or am I just unusually unlucky in the intimates department?

I think bra shopping is eclipsed in hatred by me only by bathing suit shopping. I loath the process and bathing suit shopping only wins out because I don't have to see anyone only wearing my bra. I think it has something to do with the fact that I need to start mail ordering bra's rather than convince myself I can still shop at Victoria's Secret- but she's still keeping my secret so I guess I'm safe for a while.

Well, the upside is with Jeremy at the mall now, he gets coupons from other managers. Last night he brought me home a $10 off coupon for a bra at Victoria Secret. And I did chose the Victoria Secret bag last night at the YW sock exchange. It must be destiny, Victoria has missed my company.

O Tannenbaum

Last night's Family Home Evening consisted of picking out our Christmas Tree. Jeremy and I considered being real troopers and cutting our own down to create some long lasting family Christmas memories. We heard about a tree farm just north of Glade where you can do that- but in the end with two small children in tow and the temperatures hovering over the teens we forgoed the adventure and set our sights on Fred Meyer. We are The All American Family - I know.

We get to the lot and picked out a nice tree. I must say it did look pretty tall- but Jeremy insisted it would fit nicely in our house. So we strapped it to the top and told Kaden not to let go of the straps or we would lose our tree. We headed for home, all the while Kaden dutifully holding the straps.

As we pull into the driveway Jeremy darts into the house to use the bathroom. I get out of the car to unload the kids and the back door is locked. So as I try to open my door to deactivate the automatic lock the alarm starts blaring. And I have no keys. So at 8 pm with the alarm sounding, lights flashing, and two kids strapped in I rush inside to find some keys to turn off the neighborhood annoyance.

After the excitement Jeremy unstraps the tree and drags it into the house. The tree is a smidge too tall. So after sawing about 12 inches off it fits perfectly in the house, who needs a star on top anyway? So we stabilize the tree in the stand and cut the twine expecting our beautiful full tree to fully reveal itself. I'm anticipating the scene from National Lampoons Christmas minus the broken windows.

Well it was cold last night and our tree branches froze in the upright bound position. So needless to say we gave up for the night. We figured we would let our tree thaw out and leave the decorating for another night. I'll post the "after" pictures when we actually get our tree decorated and its not looking so column-like! Happy Holidays!

Officially December

Rather than publishing the rant I was composing in my head about children who do things when they KNOW they aren't supposed to I thought I would try and keep the Christmas Spirit. It is, after all, December now and I should be thinking about showing peace and goodwill towards my fellow men (and I suppose that does include Kaden and Jennica).

I've been trying to get into the Christmas Spirit so the Bates Family CD's have been getting a good amount of air time in our kitchen. Kaden has already found his two favorites. "Here Comes Santa Claus" performed by the Jackson Five and "Christmas Don't Be Late" with Alvin and the Chipmunks. It is quite the sight watching him "dance" to the holiday beat.

I have attempted to get out the Christmas decorations. I'm not thrilled about pulling all the boxes out just to have them kicking around the garage until I have a tree to decorate. So I think next week we will make the trek to find our tree and get this house looking a little more festive.

Sunday is the First Presidency Christmas Message. Unfortunately, we will not be out of church in time to watch it, but fortunately Jeremy's parents have offered to tape it and wait to watch it with us later that night. I can only hope our two precious children won't be so exhausted that they make it an unpleasant experience. But that is what the Christmas Season is all about right, Hope? But if that's not the case I guess its on VHS- we can pause and rewind. Someday we'll get into the 21st century with DVR but for now we are content with our quaint antique method.

Enjoy the official start of December.

The Biggest Losers

Jeremy recorded The Biggest Loser for me since I was going to be late last night. So as we sit down to watch it Jeremy tells me about the amazing spinach and artichoke dip his sister dropped by today. This is what I love about myself and my dearest Jeremy.

We proceed to pull out the spinach dip (at 10:05 I might add) and while we're at it get out the egg nog and Oreos (double stuff to boot). We both were laughing at how bad we were for snacking (horribly) during the show. We are such dorks!

In my defence, I only had a few crackers with the dip, watered down the nog with some milk, and foregoed the Oreos completely! So, I might have saved myself a few calories- but no shame.

Hit Counter

I installed a hit counter on the top of the page...just for curiosity's sake. I'm sure it won't be accurate with the added hits from myself checking my blog for comments, but its all in fun.

And speaking of hit counters, I wish that we could install a hit counter on Brynnlee. That girl is getting a little crazy. Kaden is pretty patient with a sister who insists on beating the crap out of him regularly. Her favorite tactic though, is to sit on Kaden's back and proceed to yank on his sweet red hair. Poor guy, his face is sooo sad when he looks to me to rescue him from his monstrous sissy.

Jeremy told me Sienna was throwing herself out of her stroller the other day (which Brynnlee is a pro at) so at least that is some consolation. Maybe Brynnlee isn't a maniac- just acting her age. Or at least acting like Sienna, so I'm not alone in my plight.

All in a Dazzzzzzz......

I'm just posting to let you know having to wake up at 5:30 to watch kids is getting really old, really fast. Right now I would like to be lying on the couch taking a short break from my part-time jobs of chasing, referreeing, and entertaining but Brynnlee is refusing to nap. And rather than letting her cry and risk waking everyone else up- I'll just give into her no-nap-streak, for now.

Good thing I got out the Little People Nativity this morning- there's something to keep her occupied while I take a vacation in cyberspace.

Well, since we're all talking about it...

I figured everyone else divulges all their terrible mommy moments I might as well shed some light on my recent folly.

Saturday night Jeremy and I were wanting to watch DaVinci Code. We had rented it before Thanksgiving and had yet to get it anywhere near the DVD player. So I'm trying to put Kaden to bed so we can get crackin on this show.

However, Kaden is a little tricky to get to bed these days. He has to have the blankets just so. He can't have any sheets or comforter touching him. No, those have to be pushed to the bottom of the bed and only the 7 fleece "soft blankies" he has can touch him. There are two favorites his "ball blankie" and "star blankie". Those are the two most requested blankets to keep him cozy at night and during naps.

Well on said night I pushed the sheet and comforter down, put ball blankie on and properly flipped star blankie over. The stars on the blanket have to be facing up at night and down during the day (ie nap time).

Jeremy and I get the movie going and only a few minutes into it we hear the cries of Kaden. So we stop the movie and Jeremy goes up the check on Kaden. When he comes down you'll never believe what he says to me.

"Why won't you flip his blankets over?"

My thoughts are 'what are you talking about. I flipped the star blanket over, what else is there?'.

"He's up there crying because his mommy won't put the balls away. I've had to go change it the last few nights because you won't do it right."

Apparently, even though I thought I was being the best mom because I was patiently giving into each of my childs crazy demands, I haven't. I have been leaving a step out and leaving a sour taste in his mouth. The ball blanket has to be face down at night and face up during the day- which I have been neglecting-BECAUSE 'we put our toys away when the stars come out'. Talk about a crappy mom- I can't even get the OCD requests right.

Lins I don't know if Carson can come over anymore if he's going to teach Kaden to be so particular about weird stuff, I'm not sure how much more I can take.

Happy Thanksgiving

MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY,

MAY YOUR TURKEY BE PLUMP.

MAY YOUR POTATOES 'N GRAVY

HAVE NARY A LUMP,

MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS,

MAY YOUR PIES TAKE THE PRIZE,

MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER

STAY OFF OF YOUR THIGHS.

Its all alphabetical ladies...

So if you haven't noticed, you might want to scroll down to the "Stuff I Like" section and check out your blogs all listed nicely in a row. This is for convenience in doing the blog checks- its all in one location. No need to thank me, I will know in my heart how much you appreciate it.

Tonight there will be 24 people at my house for dinner. Can you believe that? I'm still wondering how I am going to fit that many people around tables in our house, but I'll keep you updated. Engagement dinner tonight and Thanksgiving on Thursday- could there be any more food this week?

You might not recognize me at church on Sunday (no, not because I'm inactive) but because of the astonishing weight gain that might occur in the next 48 hours. Wish me luck and lot of will power. I have a feeling both will come in handy over the next few meals.

Me and My Big Mouth

All that talk about a great weekend. Seriously, that is the last time I gloat about having a fun weekend planned. Friday was good and Saturday started out the same, however early in the afternoon I began to feel the dreaded ache and stiff neck- the telltale signs that I willl be coming down with something soon. And so the weekend continued with me not so great on Sunday as well. This morning I am recovering, but still feeling like I just want to lay around. I'll just have to look ahead to the upcoming Holiday Weekend. Who's going Black Friday Shopping??

TGIF!!!

It's Friday morning and I am already getting anxious! There are only 7.5 hours till I am free from kids whom I didn't give birth to. Really, I don't mind babysitting but it definitely makes my weekends just that much more enjoyable and relaxing. There are two days I only have two children to worry about. I can't wait.

And for a few hours tonight I won't even have my own children to worry about! I'll be responsible soley for my own actions. Adult conversation and food I haven't had to cook! The weekends ROCK!

Oh wait!! There is more. I'm sure your wondering how it could get any better but the weekend continues to climb upward because Deb is having her show today and tomorrow! So if any of you want to go around 3:30 give me a call! I'll be basking in thoughts of my delightful weekend to come.

Anyone else think I am "Inactive"?

So last night as I was dutifully doing my visiting teaching, my partner mentioned to the sisters at each visit that I would be attending Enrichment on Thursday. From all surprised looks and "Oh thats great" comments last night, one might think I attended church merely once a quarter!

I realize that I am pretty lax when it comes to the Relief Society activities but in my defense I was out of town for the 3 Enrichments that I knew of! It's not that I don't want to come, but I haven't gotten a reminder call in quite some time... and if you want something from me I'll need a reminder call. (Just ask Rebecca how many things I forgot to bring to YWIE last Wednesday).

So tomorrow I will embark on journey I haven't taken in a while. I return to the land of Relief Society- freezer jam, bookmarks, chairleg painting, pumpkin cookoff and all! I'm excited- but hopefully all those shocked at my presence will be able to keep the gasps and stares to a minimum, and save this inactive sister some embarrassment.

The Girl I Used To Be

She came tonight as I sat alone
The girl I used to be.
And she gazed at me with her earnest eye
And questioned reproachfully:

Have you forgotten the many plans
And hopes I had for you?
The great career, the splendid fame,
All the wonderful things to do?

Where is the mansion of stately height
With all its gardens rare?
The silken robes that I dreamed for you
And the jewels in your hair?

And as she spoke, I was very sad,
For I wanted her pleased with me,
This slender girl from the shadowy past,
The girl that I used to be.

So gently rising, I took her hand
And guided her up the stairs
Where peacefully sleeping, my babies lay,
Innocent, sweet, and fair.

And I told her that these are my only gems,
And precious they are to me;
That silken robes is my motherhood
Of costly simplicity.

And my mansion of stately height is love,
And the only career I know
Is serving each day in these sheltered walls
For the dear ones who come and go

And as I spoke to my shadowy guest,
She smiled through her tears at me.
And I saw the woman that I am now
Pleased the girl I used to be.

- Author unknown

Blogger Beta

Yesterday as I was checking my blog I noticed the invitation to switch to Blogger Beta. I debated as to whether or not I should take the plunge. I even thought about posting a poll as to what others thought about switching. But I decided to make the decision on my own and switch.

Yeah, that might have been a bad decision. I had nothing but trouble trying to log into the "new" account yesterday and this morning. I was having to change my password everytime I would log in, but after a long search of the help topics I figured out the bugs (or so I think). So hopefully this will prove to be a good decision, but only time will tell. Good luck to those trying to switch to Beta!!

Every third post

I'm starting to feel like every few posts I need to be apologizing for a taking a break. So to all from here on out just know I'm sorry that I can't be updating as often as I would like.

Yesterday was the primary program. It was really good, I just wish we weren't stuck in the overflow (could have been worse, as there was a secondary overflow back to the middle of the gym). Brynnlee was a little wiggly so I wasn't totally concentrating on every word spoken but the songs are what I really like anyway. And the songs were all wonderful.

Kaden was so cute during sacrament meeting. He couldn't have been more excited that the kids were singing songs he recognized! He would sing along with them and the few he didn't know he asked me to help him conduct so he could be like "Leo". I can't believe how he is growing up. It is weird to think he will be participating in primary in a few months. We have started talking about going to primary, but I'm sure he doesn't quite get it. It might be a sad day for him when the bubbles and snacks are a distant faded memory.

Even weirder is the fact that Brynners will be in the nursery realm in a few months too! I'm excited but not getting my hopes up seeing as she ALWAYS has a cold. I think she has permanently had a runny nose for the last 6 weeks with a few breaks here and there. I'll I can say is I hope it really revs up her immune system and eventually she will NEVER get sick.

A mother's dream, I know.

Superbowl X, maybe???

My nephew Spencer's football team, The Titans, is headed to the "Superbowl" where they will match up with the Bullpups this Saturday. It should be an exciting game, pending no asthma attacks or crazy parent meltdowns. If anyone wants to join us we'll be at Fran Rish at 10 am. Come with your faces painted and all the spirit you can muster for the 10 -year old showdown!! It should be great!

Dun Da Da Dun!

OK. I am the biggest slacker when it comes to scrapbooking journaling. Well, I'm a big slacker in the normal journaling too, but we'll not talk about that this post.

The problem is that I don't have that many alpha stamps and really don't like my handwriting so I just slap pictures on there and call it good. I figured it wasn't perfect, but no one would scorn me for it. BUT I have been feeling guilty about it and of course after reading some of Nicole's pages for Zoe my guilt level was raised even more.

Anyway, thanks to someone's blog (I can't remember who's - maybe Kim's?) I linked to a whole page of wonderful FREE fonts to download, and journaled a few pages in the most adorable fonts! Yeah, no more complaining about having to buy 50 different stamp fonts! I can do it all from the comfort of the couch without getting out a single stamp or ink pad. My scrapbooks may now have a little more heart in them! We'll see how long it continues..... anyone want to come over Saturday??

All I want is....

I come up with a clever post and I was expecting a whole lot more from you guys. Is it too much to ask for a little validation with a comment??? Jackie, Karen thanks for your support. The rest of you, I don't know. I'll seriously have to reflect on the relationship I thought we had.

Please, Donate Now

For only a $1.00 a day you could make the difference between having three hot meals each day or eating 15 lbs of cold un-nourishing candy for the next three months.

I got the pictures to upload, unfortunately I had to do them one at a time (and they still took forever) but here they are. Hope you enjoy our kids as much as we do.

Kaden, Brynnlee, Ethan, Jensen

Trick or Treat U-TARD (aka Utah)

Halloween Night

I still can't get the pictures from Utah to upload, so who knows what is going on there. However, these pictures from last night uploaded just fine.

This afternoon as I was looking at the HUGE bowl of candy on the counter I got curious... So I hauled the massive bowl upstairs and laid it all out on the scale.

It registered at 15.2 lbs- yes, I am serious. An amazing haul for two tiny tots. No wonder Kaden was wanting me to carry his bucket half the night.

So in case you notice 15.2 extra lbs hanging around my "muffin top" -as Lindsay appropriately calls it- you'll know right where it came from. Gotta love Halloween!

Could Blogger be any more Lame??

OK. Day 2 of trying to post pictures is unsuccessful again!! This is really grating on my nerves. So check out these awesome pictures from my friend Jackie's blog. www.brown-spot.blogspot.com Her pictures are of the Rexburg Temple being constructed and the last one is AMAZING, to say the least. While you are there check out her link "Kevin's Art". Her husband has some good stuff going too.

Trunk or Treat - UT style

Here are the pictures from the Trunk or Treat! Kaden and Brynnlee had tons of fun with their cousins, Ethan and Jensen. Can you believe Jensen is 2 months younger than Brynnlee? The kid is a tank with a capital "T". And then there is our daughter, who could pass off for the poster child for starving children in Utah, good thing she's cute!!

Weddings.....don't do it!!

We just returned home after a very busy weekend in Utah. My younger sister was getting married and needless to say I worked like crazy. I think quite possibly I was the only one who realized how much HAD NOT been done when we got down there. But it all worked out- and they got married. And I showed some sweet skill putting together the flowers a few hours before the wedding. When I get some pictures- I'll post of the wedding and of the trick or treating we did down there. Kaden and Brynnlee looked so adorable, both nights! Glad to be home- now start updating your blogs!! :)

Build a Monster???!!!!

Doesn't that boy look happy? Thats what weeks and weeks and weeks of hard work trying to stay dry and keeping up on a chore chart gets ya!! He was so excited to go to "Build a Bear" and then once we got there he was obsessed with the monster they had there. Jeremy and I really tried hard to get him to choose the most adorable monkey- but to no avail! He was getting that monster. IT was pretty cute, and hey, he did do all the hard work! Great job Kaden, maybe I need to create a chore chart for myself so I can bring home that monkey!!

Pumpkin Patch

Last Monday we headed out to the pumpkin patch on a quest for the perfect pumpkin. We found a couple of good ones, and had a ton of fun. Brynnlee was really excited and tried to trapse around the pumpkin patch but didn't manage between the vines to well. We'll post the pics when we get our Jack-o-lanterns carved.

It's been a while

So from some kindly nudging last night I realized that it really had been a while since my last post. I wouldn't want all my faithful blogging pals to stop checking my blog entirely because of my neglect.

So much has happened since the last time that I don't even know where to start. I had a chicken pox scare with Kaden, but I think maybe he just isn't washing his face as well as I thought. Brynnlee still has a cold lingering from three weeks ago and today is the official day I can call the doctor to get some antibiotics.

This morning I came into the kitchen only to find it had turned into the war torn country of "Honey Bunches of Oats". I'm not sure how 1 cup of cereal can cover the entire table and most of the surrounding floor. It really is quite amazing- I think it is probably the same concept as the loaves and fishes. Kaden is going through a dry cereal phase (no milk, please) so I just swept it all up, lucky for me.

It is also Friday which means its cleaning for me which consists normally of doing laundry, bathrooms and general scrubbing in the kitchen. BUT since we are going to Seattle this weekend and then on to Utah- everything has to be taken care of on top of having three extra kids today.

Sorry I have been so lax on the blogging, I know how much it means to all of you. I really do, I just wish I had some better material to write about. Hopefully this can tide you over until my jet-setting weekend kicks in.

A little love please

OK. So today I emailed the administrator of "The Mommy Times" to complain that I was upset about not winning any of the prizes they advertise monthly. I really asserted myself, trying to take a lesson from Kim who always takes charge of the situation!

Does it really matter that the administrator of "The Mommy Times" is my former neighbor and good friend from college? No. I gave that girl a piece of my ever-lovin mind. Not really, but hey it was a fun way to shoot her an email, and give a not so subtle hint that I really want to win some of the awesome stuff they have advertised!

Well BJ sweetly emailed me back and let me know that the reason I'm not winning is that I don't have any referral points, and those have a HUGE bearing on your chances of winning. I know you have seen link on the side of my blog for the last few months....so how about swinging in and typing my email address in when you sign up to win! You'll do us both a huge favor!

Never Give Up!!

Today while driving in the car home from church Jeremy was asking about his talk, did it make sense, did it flow, etc.

Kaden pipes in "Dad I saw you up there!". We chatted about Daddy being on the stand and then Jeremy throws out the clincher.

"What did Daddy talk about?"

The automatic response "I don't know."

Jeremy and I just smile at each other and laugh....big surprise since he was tracing the cinderblock wall or staring at the Meyer's and Johnson's behind us most of the time.

"Daddy did you talk about leaders today?"

What??? Shock registers on both of our faces! Our child is getting something more than a playdate and a snack out of church. That makes it all worth it. I might not be getting a lot out of sacrament some Sundays, but its nice to know that Kaden might be!

The Amazing Race

Wednesday Jared Bates created a super-fabulous mutual activity. I think all the kids had a ton of fun, I must say it was some of the most fun I've had at mutual in a while. And maybe Jared should apply for a job making the clues on the real "Amazing Race". They were pretty impressive.

I consider myself a pretty good driver. I have a good sense of direction and can hold my own behind the wheel. However, all things change when you are driving around Pasco trying to not be eliminated. I seriously was the worst driver ever!! Making wrong turns, not being able to manuever, not knowing how to get to peoples houses I've been to a million times before, a sad display of my abilities. It was pathetic. Some mistakes I can blame on my navigator Quentin, but most I must take full responsibility for. By the way, anyone wanting a fun drive after church we discovered a great round about located in Riverview Estates! What is it that makes you totally an airhead driver when there is a first place prize on the line- not to mention refreshments?

In case you are wondering our team (#3) came in second place. Rather than my driving though, I place blame solely on the clay pigeons. They were no where to be found in that field!! And I didn't even get to use the awesome flashlight I brought. However, with a fabulously quick FHE, Quentin slammin down the Jell-o concoction, my spelling expertise, and great kids who know the Articles of Faith (and a kind Sister Wilson who is willing to let A LOT slide) we pulled out a not to shabby performance. I hope someone was taking pictures!!

Does it get any better

Ok, I just had to post these super cute pics of Brynners. This was taken on Saturday while we were cleaning out the last bits of produce from Scott and Carol-Lynn's garden. She was so good, I just wish she would smile more. She's a little on the sober side, totally unlike big brother Kaden. That kid will smile at anything- making picture taking a breeze.

Cheap or Chic, you decide.

If you haven't already seen the pics.... here are some updated ones. So, yeah, I'm a multitasker and got Brynnlee's 1 year, Kadens 3 year, Halloween and siblings pictures all in one! I even amaze myself somedays!

https://www.searsphotos.com/?shareid=S204631474lK28KJ736V6

47 Quarts and counting

Thanks for checking in after my short sabbatical from blogging. I have been furioiusly working to get all the grapes hanging out in my garage processed into grape juice (about 200 lbs worth). I'm happy to report that it is finished- all 47 quarts- and it didn't take nearly as long as I had anticipated. SO, in order to celebrate my accomplishment today I will be treat myself a fund day of cathcing up on the laundry that I neglected to fold and then delving right back into canning the two huge boxes of apples! Any takers?!

Nostalgia

Last night as I was pressing cider with the YW I was just thinking about all the memories I have of Fall. I don't know why I love it so much but I just do. Its a totally magical time for me. I love canning grape juice (which I'll be doing this weekend if anyone wants to join), the "sweater weather", making apple cider, pumpkin patches, Halloween - home made doughnuts! Its all great.

I mentioned to my friend who lives in Virginia that I have always wanted to go to the East Coast one fall. I have this romantic notion of New England in the fall.... you know the quiant little pictures and articles you read in Better Homes and Gardens about the harvest, maple syrup making, hayrides, the leaves changing. I want to experience that. I guess it is just my "country style" as Rebecca would call it coming out. She lovingly tells me I have Grandma taste (I hope I'm not really an 80 year old in a semi-functional 26-year old body). Be that as it may, this year the cross country trip is definitely out-but there is always next year! So I'll enjoy my Pasco fall. After all, this IS where my best memories of fall have been made.

Do you really want to know...

Well Tiff wanted me to post about "The Dream". Really there isn't much to post. It was a totally random and fairly lame dream. Here you go:

I was late to school (and by that I mean moving in)- so of course I'm going to get stuck with the one really annoying, weird, roommate you always have in your apartment. Well, it turns out I have two of those types of girls in our apartment and, glory of all glories, they have chosen to share a room. So that leaves Meridith all by herself and by default my roommie. I was just getting things unloaded when - enter Kaden and blinding light. So there it ends. No juicy gossip. Just plain old boring mind ramblings. If something good comes up tommorrow night with no interruptions I'll let you know.

It's 2:30 please wake up!!

As you all may know I have had slight difficulty sleeping the last week. So last night as I finally am getting some rest, the light in my bathroom flips on. I assume it is Jeremy and in my groggy state I roll over trying to avoid the glare thats quickly burning my retinas. The next thing I hear is "MOM - I need help!" I jump out of bed to find Kaden in our bathroom proclaiming he needs to go potty as he is jumping up and down. So, after quickly helping him I tuck him safely back into his own bed. Mission accomplished with no major drama.

I walk the ten steps back to my bedroom all the while wondering 'What was that all about??' First of all, Kaden never wakes up to use the bathroom- so why he suddenly trapses into our bathroom and flips on the light really perplexes me. Why he didn't just wake me up first? Secondly, he never is proactive during the daytime- so why all of the sudden is he being responsible enough to climb out of a warm bed and walk into my bathroom in the middle of the night? Hmmmm.....

Whatever-- Its 2:30. I'll probably never figure Kaden , or any other child, out no matter how long I try. I just smile that I don't have to change the sheets and go back to sawing logs and return to random dreams - such as me and Meridith Harker being roommates at Ricks. But that's a whole other post in and of itself.....

Good or Bad....

So normally I would post all the adorable birthday pics from Kaden's big day yesterday. Unfortunately my doting mother skills don't extend that far. I did the video camera- I can't do two things at once. So if anyone in the family will email me their pics (ie: Jer's parents) I'll happily post them for you. As of right now you will just have to invision the adorable curious george theme- YELLOW everywhere. Even down the the sunflowers 'fresh from our garden'- I feel so accomplished saying that! I really am a doting mother aren't I?

Green butterfly float my way....

A few weeks ago Jeremy and I were discussing how we were so glad we didn't have trouble sleeping. This all transpired through a Lunesta or Ambien commercial, I am unsure of which. Anyway, I guess I didn't knock on wood. The last two nights I have had the worst sleep ever! I am dead tired and yet I still toss and turn all night. I wake up feeling totally unrested and I swear my back has been tweaked by someone with a voo-doo doll claiming revenge for my insensitve sleep comment. What is going on?

Seriously, I wish I could just knock myself out and arise the next morning refreshed after a perfect night of blissful, dream-infused sleep. The worst part in all this is that Brynners has been resting like a rock- what's my problem??

Jeremy says he has no problem sleeping because he doesn't have a guilty conscience. I didn't think I did either- but maybe my psyche is trying to tell me something different. That's the last time a post a complaint about f&t meeting.

Africa anyone

Alright, after having a few days to mull it over I am convinced I need to make a trip to Africa. For the fabulous safari experience you ask? NO, (although I would love that), I am referring to the last two fast & testimony meetings where people have gotten up and referred to the silence of the children in the congregations in Africa. Obvious to anyone in the 6th ward, I must go and learn their secrets. I would love to refrain from whispering death threats into Kaden's ear every other minute, but at this point that is my only strategy to getting through Sacrament meeting. So I guess if anyone else is up for it- lets make a visit to the Nigerian 12th ward.

And another thing....

Who wants to start being my "workout" buddy. After reading the last post- come on I need to start hittin' it hard. 5:30, 6:00, 6:30.............. ANYONE??

I love food and it shows....

Last night as Jeremy and I had the extremely RARE treat of going to dinner with friends we came home with the following lessons learned:

1. We really eat more than we should when we eat out.
2. We really eat more than we should when we eat out, and we are not paying for it.
3. We really need to get together with other couples more often.
4. We really really love the BoneFish Grill and more specifically the Bang Bang Shrimp.
5. I guess we are really deprived since we both spent the ENTIRE day thinking about going to the BoneFish Grill - seriously Jer had the menu up at work most of the day.

I guess this all stems from eating out rarely as I stated before. It is such a rarity that when we do go out our lives and conversation revolve around it for days afterward. So if anyone is wondering we do reccommend the BoneFish Grill.

To Illustrate my point further

So here it is 8:49 and I'm wondering why Karen hasn't posted a longer blog. I really was looking forward to settling down for a long blog reading session. Why you might ask? Because being the queen procrastinator I am- I have things to do, so of course that means I should sit around and read about Karens exciting life rather than get a head start on my day. I have about a million loads of laundry and packing to do for 4 people, and Kaden really counts for 2 since he's potty training and still a little unpredictable. Anyway I guess I'll stop the milling about and head upstairs since the washing machine just paged me letting me know he's ready for the next load.

More from the Birthday Patrol...

Making the cake...
A little bit of Paris
"Happy Birthday Brynnlee"
The cutest pink poodle skirt

Here are the highlights from Brynnlee's 1st Birthday. I tried to put more pictures on here, but apparently blogspot couldn't handle the mass amounts of pictures I thought should be plastered on the page. After 4 unsuccessful tries of trying to load them all on here I narrowed it down to these few pictures. We had great food, tons of family and one cute little girl- and a cute little boy who was vying for all the attention he could get....check out the tongue in the cake picture!! Wish you all could have been here, but this, hopefully, is the next best thing.

Its not much, but its a post...

This is for my dearest Karen, who mentioned that my pitiful once a week blog posts just weren't cutting it for her. So being the sweet georgia peach that I am I decided to be a little more dedicated to the cause. Here is an updated post just for you.... now hurry up and show me how to put the counter on my blog so I can confirm that NO ONE is reading it.

To procrastinate, or not to procrastinate

Do I really have a choice? I feel compelled to leave things to the last possible minute. I don't know what I'm thinking half the time, I just assume I am superwoman and can pull everything together in an absurd amount of time. I have other important things to do like compose and check blogs...right? In all reality I just like to disillusion myself into thinking I work fabulously under pressure. It takes all my guilt away. Anyway, now I'm really just rambling to postpone the sugar cookies I've convinced myself would make a great addition to the poodle party. Who in their right minds isn't going to LOVE the bone shaped cookies- I mean seriously.

She is almost ONE?

So, Brynners (as we like to call her) is rounding the corner toward her first birthday. I can't believe it. I feel like this picture was just taken a few months ago, where she fit so snugly into the crook of my arm- well not exactly in this picture, but nothing is snug on a hospital bed. Anyway I was just browsing through pictures on the computer and found this one, and felt a little twinge of nostalgia for those tiny newborn days. To ease my madness I called a few friends who have recently had babies and was yanked back into the state of loving my toddling baby girl. Hopefully the next 17 years will be just a fun as the first was.

Walking in Washington

OK. I think it is official. Brynnlee has started "consistently" walking. This means attempting more than one jaunt per day. Today she even started walking on her own, ie without a parent holding out their arms for her. So exciting....I tried to get a little video but with 6 crazed kids running around just before naptime, there wasn't much success. I'll let you know if it ever materializes.

This is an orthodontic emergency!

So if you haven't heard me talk recently, Friday I was fortunate enough to receive along with my bottom braces a lovely "bite plate". Apparently this overbite I have is in need of some serious correction. Now being naieve as I am, I thought this would be not a huge deal, slightly more cumbersome , but hey for Hollywood teeth what you can you expect? You have to give a little and I'm up for the challenge. HOWEVER after trying to wait my 3 hours before eating I was famished. So I sit down only to find that I can no longer eat.

The function of the bite plate is to not let my top teeth overlap my bottom teeth, therefore rendering me incapable of chewing since my molars are miles away from meeting. Lucky for me its Labor Day Weekend... and there is no eating whatsoever involved in this holiday. The upside in all this, the scale has beamed a lower number today than in MANY weeks past.

So bring on the metal appliances. I'll have Hollywood teeth and a Hollywood starved body.

Whats better than Free??

Check the link to the side to receive a coupon for free chocolate if you are interested....

Oh how the wind does blow

So the lovely picture to the left is of our partial family in San Francisco. Brynnlee had the unfortunate luck of being left at home so as not to disturb our "Tyler Beck whirlwind tour" of the city. Slightly windy as you can tell.

The next few posts will be a little bit more elaborate, possibly more exciting but I am just getting my feet wet here...

An easier way to live

I think this might be easier to share with others than my Yahoo 360 so here goes.