Grover Family Memories

Independence Day

2011-07-06T19:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Aunt Kristen we were able to enjoy a fabulous 4th of July with friends and family. Good food, Good times and Great people. Here are a few highlights. They are in reverse order so enjoy from evening to morning. A special thank you goes out to "Troy" it is his home we are partying at, his boat we used to tube and his seadoos we borrowed. Thanks so much Troy for helping make a great family memory. We ended our evening at the Stewart's home and really enjoyed the light show and we are grateful for the invitation this year. It was a fun filled evening.

Kindergarten Graduation

2011-06-16T22:04:00.000-07:00

My littlest, buddy boy, graduated from Kindergarten today and I am oh so proud of him. He has shown throughout the year truly how capable he is of excelling, learning, growing, controlling, loving and wonderful he truly is. I have always known this, of course, but now others do too. He has made lots of new friends this year and it has been a joy to see him learn how to keep his behavior in tact in the classroom. I am sure his teacher had her doubts at times but even she says he has come so far this year. He knows all of his Kindergarten sight words, he can count to way more than 100 and he can do art like the best of them. He'll tell you his favorite subject is recess but really I think he just loves school in general. Here are some photos of today's events and a few of his friends.

My Buddy Boy - Isn't he so handsome!

Here he is getting his diploma

His diploma!

Mrs. Siva and Nicholas

Nicholas Loves his dad! (Mom too! I am just the designated picture taker.)

Below are some pictures of friends he's kept and new friends he has made throughout the year.
Friends are what keep us going in life...especially Nicholas. He loves his friends.

The Boys playing army

2011-06-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

So the other morning as I was getting ready for church I came up on this scene....

My thought was I love these boys and they are all playing nicely. It was an intricate game and there was a lot of strategy involved. But the best strategy was the memory that was in the making. Isn't childhood all about making memories and as a parent if we can make the good, positive memories outweigh the not so positive we have to be doing something right. Well I have to say Dad is amazing when it comes to making good memories. He is my boys' greatest friend and i love him more for it. The kids' love him and they want to play with him. He gets down on their level, he thinks like them, and he is also a great mediator. They played for over an hour and instead of arguing and frustration, it was giggles, smiles and well...and all around good, positive memory. I love Dad and so do they...we are a happy family.

Happy Holdiays from the Grovers 2010

2010-12-29T12:17:00.000-08:00

I got some cards out in the mail this year but not nearly enough and I am sorry to those who didn't receive one personally. You are in our thoughts, memories and photo albums. I haven't been great about blogging each event because i focus on scrapbooking them but our year has been full of family vacations, birthdays, sporting events, drama, art and oh so much more. Happy New Year to you all!

Great Wolf Lodge

2010-12-29T10:47:00.000-08:00

This year we started a new tradition for Christmas. It began last year but this year we implemented it as a family---Christmas Vacations for Christmas! Over the past few years I have become a bit disenchanted with the expectations of people when a gift is being given- the idea that a gift has to be on a list and if its not I am suppose to supply you with a receipt...anyway for the last couple years we have been contemplating not doing "big" gifts for the kids and this year we decided to begin the tradition. After Christmas last year we let the kids know that Santa Claus is still coming but that we would no longer be buying gifts for them...instead we were going to create fun family memories beginning with a trip to Great Wolf Lodge. They were so excited and continued to be excited all year long. As they day approached they couldn't think of anything else and when we set the date it was real...a day to countdown too! December 13-14, 2010 and even better Uncle Joe and Aunt Gretchen wanted to join us. The more the merrier....so here are some highlights!

The kids couldn't get enough of the slides...for the really big ones we had to climb 92 stairs to the top...those were the only ones the kids wanted to do so we must have climbed up 40 times. You do the math....my calves were killing me the next day---definitely a work out. Nicholas couldn't do the "Howling Tornado" due to height issues but he could do the River Run---it was by far his favorite because they played Rock music on the way down..If you could have seen his face. He would assume the position of "safety" as we left dock...but as soon as he was out of sight of the enforcers he would turn around put his hands in the air and rock out the entire way down. David and I couldn't help but smile big every time we made the trip. It was also fun because we could go down as an entire family. Even the kids after all was said and done when asked what their favorite thing was said in unison, "the river one because we could all be on it together." The howling tornado was a drop off in the dark and it definitely made your stomach feel as though it was flying... We kept saying we wish we had brought a waterproof camera because those photos would have been priceless.

It was fun being in the kiddie areas with Trevor and Andrew- to see the joy on their faces as well as see Andrew take his first trip down the slide. He swallowed some water but it was well worth it. Trevor was so excited everytime the water waves would come up to his feet...he would kick his feet and smile the whole time. Memories should be shared and we had fun sharing them with Uncle Joe and Aunt Gretchen.

Would we do it again? Definite Yes! We went at an off time - during the week when school was still in session and there were no lines, no waiting and lots of room to relax. The rooms were fantastic...even the cheap ones- which is where we stayed. We brought our own food for breakfast and lunch and left the facilities to eat dinner. It was a great memory and we are looking forward to next years new memory---Disneyland.

Halloween Festivities 2010

2010-10-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

Last night we were invited to a Halloween Party- of course we would not have missed it since some of our greatest friends were also to be in attendance. The theme was spiders and those in charge sure delivered on the decorations. It was amazing!

I am not much of a person to dress up but David is and so he has been looking for months. We don't have a huge budget so the ones he really wanted were out of the question but we did decide on this

We played games like guess how many spiders in the jar, who can jump the spider the furthest, charades, and guess the famous person. The food was plentiful and I must say my noodle salad was amazing... Oh, and I forgot the eat the donut on a string the fastest...that is a classic and always fun no matter what age. Socializing is of course the most engaging for me and there was plenty of it. I just love having a group of friends that make life fun and enjoyable. Take a look at the group of us...

I have to have an honorable mention because one of my friends had a meeting she needed to go to and was therefore not present for the group picture... so here she is along with her husband.

We were glad to have her there even for the short time it was.

Thanks to all those who planned, provided, decorated and made this night possible. We had a great time and look forward to next year.

Flag Football Season

2010-10-25T22:18:00.000-07:00

Xander has started playing flag football and I must say I believe he has found his sport "passion" I have never seen him so engaged in a sport in all his almost 10 years of life. He is a different kid on the field. My cautious "sweet boy" becomes this aggressive...well I don't even know what to call it. But I love watching it. I am engaged in the game. He has played two games so far and he has made 2 or is it 3 touchdowns. Now, its not tackle, and I am still not sure how I feel about him playing tackle but for now I'll just enjoy this. Here are a few highlights from his first game...thanks to Uncle Joe and Aunt Gretchen who came and also some highlights from his second game thanks to Uncle Rick and Aunt Bonnie who came to that one.

1st game Highlights
and now for the second game highlights...

Now I know I am a mom and leave it to mom's to boast of their children's talent but I have to say he is the best kid on the team...he's quick, he's intent, he's engaged, he's cute (I can say that) and he loves playing. Now baseball is up there but even then he doesn't light up the way he does playing football.

It's Halloween Time

2010-10-25T21:57:00.000-07:00

I am trying to get better at blogging again....I do have the time I just don't make it a priority. But we had a fun time for FHE this evening....for the first time since having kids I felt we could handle carving pumpkins. We have over the years colored, drawn, painted and did whatever we could to pumpkins but never have we attempted to carve them, with real tools. We invited our friends the Brown's over, and also had our friends the Baxter's. We had dinner first and then began carving. Here are some of the captured moments as well as the results of our attempts. I must say that I believe we actually did a good job for it being our first time.

This was taken so that people in the future would know I was there.

Nicholas didn't really want to put his hands in the pumpkin- he thought it was gross.

Natalee was just happy to be doing something with art...

All the girls cleaning out their pumpkins

Xander was so excited to show off his completed pumpkin- he and david worked hard on it.

All the boys...

Brown Family Pumpkin

Baxter Family Pumpkins

Our family pumpkins...completed! Aren't we just awesome.

Here they are all lit up in the dark...Pretty Cool, huh!

Happy Halloween to our family and friends!

Fall is here!

2010-10-11T19:50:00.000-07:00

Yikes! The summer just passed us by and I must say I am bewildered by time and how quickly it gets out of reach. We had such a great summer, we didn't travel too far but we traveled more than usual and we made such great memories. I am so grateful that the kids are growing up and becoming more independent. They still need to know I am there but they can function in public without my constant hand holding and without being attached to my side. It is actually kind of freeing and makes family trips much more enjoyable for all of us. This summer we got to travel to Pacific Beach,
Spokane, and Cannon Beach/Seaside and of course made our traditional trip to Ohanepecosh. We took lots of pictures, made lots of memories, bonded with family and friends and vowed to go back to each of these places at some point. The only trip we were sad not to be able to make was to visit our friends in Walla Walla.

We so wanted to go but did not budget as well as we should have and consequently had to make some cut backs. We hope to make up for it sometime this year. As we came to the end of our summer, exhausted yet fulfilled, we discovered how much we love to discover new places and are so excited to realize that we are finally at a point in which we feel we can pursue our traveling dreams. In fact we have decided for Christmas instead spending our hard earned funds on "stuff" we are going to save for family trips. This year we are going to Great Wolf Lodge and the kids are super excited (Aunt Gretchen, Uncle Joe, Andrew and Trevor get to go with us) Next year is in the works and we will be taking the kids to Disneyland. Its so fun to see and hear the excitement on the kids faces as they speak about our upcoming trips. So after the summer came to an end with our one last trip to Ohanepecosh
we settled
back into the routine that was seriously lacking during the summer and I think we are now getting into the groove of school, piano, homework, practices, and all that goes into having kids and staying busy.

I must say that things changed dramatically for me this year in that ALL the kids are in school all day. It has been FABULOUS! I get so much done and I still have time to do some of things that I WANT to do. My biggest goal this year is to get my house organized and things in their place. It has been so hard to do with the kids at home constantly taking things out of their place as soon as I clean. It also entails having to purge, which is not going to be easy and then having a place for those things I can't quite part with yet but may need to down the road. I also plan to paint every room in the house by the end of the school year. The other thing that I have wanted to do for a very long time is build shelves in our old, tiny, coat closet. I have been asking for a year or longer and it finally was accomplished last week. yeah...thanks to David and I working together as a team to get it done.

I also had the extreme pleasure of saving, looking and searching for a piano this year and recently we were able to purchase a very nice, used but well taken care of, piano from the nicest lady on Craigslist. I really have been praying we would be able to find a piano that would fit the needs of the kids as well as my extreme desire to learn and play the piano.I have been looking for the past year and when I found this one for sale it was as if we were meant to be. Everything came together in a short period of time and within a few days it was mine!

Thanks to many family and friends who made it possible.

I have also been doing a lot of studying of books that help me to understand the gospel more, historically and symbolically. I love gaining knowledge that helps me to have a greater understanding of how the gospel works and further solidifies the testimony I already have. It's amazing how it all works together to testify of our Heavenly Father and His plan of Happiness for us, His children and of His Son, Jesus Christ, His atonement and sacrifice for us. I love it all. It brings me great joy. It gets me through the difficult times and helps me overcome the weaknesses I have, just by knowing that by having faith in Him- I can become someone far greatter than I am today.

My family is a blessing to me and the things I learn daily from serving them, helps me to understand the love my Heavenly Father has for me. I love that my children teach me, love me and have patience with me. I am thankful for my husband who does the same for me on a far greater level. We learn together and love together. We are constantly learning to be friends and every day I love him more. I am looking forward to creating new memories with each of my family members and choosing to be with them for eternity.

View are spectacular

2010-05-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

The other day we were driving home from piano lessons and had a to take a bit of a detour, it took a bit longer but it was so worth it. The views across the harbor were breathtaking. As I ponder on that thought for a bit I realize that sometimes in life an unforeseen detour takes us off the path we were heading. That detour can get us down, make us angry, make us frustrated and we can get so absorbed in the fact that our normal path has been disrupted or we can just enjoy the ride and take the steps to get us back to where we want or need to be. It is when we do this that we are able to enjoy the blessings along the way. As we do this on our way back to the path we want to be on we will find ourselves better than we were to begin with. If it so happens that the detour gives us
insight into ourselves and runs parallel with the road we normally would have taken then we are doubly blessed. Often times we get so caught up with road we usually take that we forget there are many different roads that will take us to where we need to be. Some take a little longer, and some are considered shortcuts, but most often its the longer routes that leave us feeling more fulfilled than we would have been had we taken the shortcut. In the road of life our destination does not have a time limit- we aren't in a race- all we need to do is get there having followed the instructions along the way, slowed down and taken in the views. It's the views that are breathtaking that get us through the more dreary landscapes.

2010-05-15T13:58:00.001-07:00

Mother’s Day has come and gone; I am feeling the time slip through my fingers. As I sat and contemplated, with the few minutes of quiet time that I had, wait…did I have any quiet time. Well, anyway it was so fun to be celebrated and it was so much fun to see the items that each of the kids made for me this year. Nicholas drew a picture of he and I and his teacher took that picture and made it into notepad with that picture in the top corner of each sheet of paper…Natalee wrote a poem using the letter MOTHER as the beginning of each word she used to describe me…my favorite “H” for house ruler---isn’t that the truth! They just happen to hear me above the quiet rule of their Dad…Ultimately; he leads and guides our family through the obstacles of life. Natalee’s teacher had her friend come in and take pictures of each of the kids and they put the picture, the poem and a handprint of each of the kids on a nice piece of cardstock that I can frame. It turned out beautifully. Xander’s teacher had them draw a piece of art with watercolors and they took that art and turned it into blank cards that we can use to send thank you’s, thinking of you’s and well wishes... What great ideas! I just love showing them off to people. Motherhood is something I come to love as I reflect. It’s not easy; it’s one of the most life changing experiences of my life. It has caused me to ask myself who I am and what I want to be! I constantly have to think about the direction I need to take, not just for me, but for welfare of my kids. There are lots of things I would do different if I didn’t have to think of anyone but myself but in the long run the experience of being a mother is one I wouldn’t take back…if I had anything to do over again I would make the most of the time before being a mother, to better prepare myself as a mother. Innately I am very selfish, I want to do things for myself, I want to go to school, I want to read my books, I want to go to movies, I want to go to shows on broadway, the symphony, concerts, I want to travel, I don’t want to be tied down to anyone but my schedule and time frame…but I find that as the years go by those things are still there but I am a better person for having put those wants aside to do the things I need to develop emotionally and spiritually. Constantly thinking about me can get me down but when I am constantly thinking of others, my kids and my husband, I lose myself and find when I look back that I have improved and bettered myself in ways that I never thought possible. I know this is a long drawn out piece of writing but I write this for me and not for anyone else. Putting my thoughts down on paper helps me to organize the things going on inside my head. As I finished my Mother’s day, having cooked breakfast for dinner, with help from others, for my mom and dinner the night before, for David’s mom- I realized that I enjoy doing the work when it is for someone else. As David took the kids out of my hair and I cleaned up the mess from cooking- I wasn’t as annoyed as usual because I was doing it so my mom wouldn’t have too. I truly lost myself in doing something for someone else and realized that I love doing things for others because I want too, not because I have too! Being a mom is something I do because I want too, not because I have too and I need to remember that when things get monotonous, when I feel unappreciated, when I feel overwhelmed, exhausted and all that comes along with being a mom, that I do this because I want too…For me…my attitude is what makes all the difference to my life as well as my families’. I am so thankful for my kids who teach me more than I can teach them—who share with me a love that I could not find anywhere else in this world. are more understanding than anyone else and who bring me joy more than anything else. If I had 30 seconds to grab anything in case of fire the only things I want with me are my kids (and my husband). Everything else can be replaced.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-15T22:47:00.000-08:00

We got invited to several Halloween get togethers this year and i actually made an effort to go to each one of them. you must know that I am not much of a halloween person- in fact the idea of dressing up stresses me out. So much so that every year I say I'll go to this or that but in the end I can't find a costume and so I opt out. But this year David had a costume he just had to have which meant that I needed to at least try. Thanks to a very good friend of mine- who had just bought hers to use one time- I was able to, without to much problem, borrow hers and make my appearance. If I learned anything this year it that- if you have more than one party to go to- you need to have more than one costume. By the time we went to 3 parties and trunk or treat I was ready to throw the costume out the door. But anyway here are a few highlights.

Wicked!

2009-11-15T22:42:00.000-08:00

I got to see Wicked. Oh- it was spectacular. In fact there are no words to completely describe the joy that exuded from my soul as i watched the sets move from scene to scene, the costumes, the lines and ultimately the music envelop me. It was AMAZING! Here is just a little something to keep the memory alive in my heart and in my mind.

School has begun

2009-11-15T22:20:00.000-08:00

It has been so long since I have posted anything... kids are my excuse. If I have time for anything I want to scrapbook and yet I haven't had anytime even for that...until last week when the kids got the flu. Oh, i don't know what kind it was but they had fevers, coughing, aching and well, it was almost a week of no school for at least one of the kids. Nicholas was by far the worst and now I wish I had taken pictures of each of them in the midst of their sorrows. Natalee had it for the shortest amount of time (on Halloween) but we loaded her up on medication and she still went trick or treating. Nicholas got it that night and he was the worst- in fact it lasted the entire week. Some days were better than others. Xander- he got it on Sunday evening and he complained the most--I had to tell him that I would do anything for him but the whining and moaning had to stop because all it did was make me want to not be around him. Don't worry I said it nicely and lovingly but a mom can only take so much. Anyway- i was expecting this since school started. it is inevitable that kids are going to get sick. Anyway, the week wasn't a total bust because while the kids were sick and only wanted me to sit with them and love them, i took the opportunity to scrapbook on my laptop with them snuggled up next to me. I got a lot done and i am almost caught up with 2009. Here are a few highlights from their activities thus far...

Nicholas climbing the tree at Grandma's house and the beautiful fall foliage!

We don't buy school pictures but we take them at home on the same day!

This little boy truly makes me smile!

It was so fun to be with Natalee- she doesn't need me there- she just wants me there.

Xander was so excited for his class' opening day of their student store. He was also nervous because he had to give a commercial. I will post it later for you all to see. He was amazing and he did a great job. But he sure was glad when it was over.

The views are spectacular

2009-08-24T16:45:00.000-07:00

They say the light comes at the end of the tunnel or the rewards come after the trial but in this case it was the views that came after the climb were worth every aching limb afterwards. My sister Bonnie, my friend Mary and I backpacked in to Summitt Lake last week and despite the bugs I enjoyed every moment I had to myself. It truly was inspiring and thought provoking. Self renewing and breathless- not just because of the hiking and extra physical exertion. Take a look...

A band-aid can't fix this

2009-08-24T16:29:00.000-07:00

well- it was bound to happen since the summer has been relatively injury and sickness free. Nicholas was climbing the fence- when he shouldn't have been and because Xander had been- he couldn't get down and called for me- I didn't hear. So he tried it on his own.... Here are the results

Nicholas holding pressure on his owie!

Mommy keeping him company

Not for the faint hearted and weak stomachs

10 stitches later

He came into the house holding his hand and I was puzzled as to what had happened. While Xander is trying to explain, I ran to the sink to wash it off...I immediately saw that I did not have the medical capabilities for this "owie"! I told the kids to get my purse we were going to he dr. Natalee instantly telling Nicholas that stitches tickle..."the first shot hurts, but after that the rest tickle." I am not thinking clearly and realize I need to get things under control. we get in the car and i take a deep breath and announce we are going to say a prayer. Everything calmed down and i was thinking clearly. I realized the other kids didn't need to go to the ER so I called a friend. She took the kids and we were off and back home 4 hours later. But the rest of the story I found out on Sunday. She tells me tha, when I called, she had friends over that normally keep her from answering the phone but she felt a prompting that she needed to answer the phone. She was an answer to my prayer and another testimony that my Heavenly Father knows me and my needs as an individual. He is truly watching over me and will answer my prayers.

Love one Another

2009-06-16T14:24:00.001-07:00

i watched this youtube video today and was instantly touched by its message. No matter what faith you belong to it is imperative that we realize every person needs someone else. If we can keep our eyes open to our surroundings we will be able to be that person to lift someone when they need it most. Please take a moment to watch the video and be renewed in the faith that we can make a difference no matter who we are. Just click on the bolded words "watch the video" to view it.

Summer is here!

2009-06-05T23:45:00.000-07:00

These past few weeks have been beautiful, weather wise, but as is the tendency of pure blood washingtonians, after a few days of out of the ordinary hot weather, we begin to wither, and become somewhat irritable due to the heat. this does not get lost in my children and with being is school, getting up early and coming home in the sun they are irritable messes and combined with my irritability it makes for a not so pleasant household. So being the intuitive mother that I am (ha, ha!) I saw what was coming on a day last week and instead of bearing through it I told the kids, spontaneously, to get in the car we were going to the beach. natalee and nicholas were thrilled, Alex not so much but still we needed to get out of our hot house and away from daily chores and homework. It was short-lived but very pleasant. To breathe in the puget sound air and listen to the waves hit the shore, to watch the kids explore and not hear the complaining (except of course alex who didn't want to be there) It was so worth it and I was able to capture a few nice photos.

More May fun

2009-06-04T11:50:00.000-07:00

Here are some final entries for the month of May. It was all in all a fun month and we had a great time with our friends and family. what would life be without others to share it with--

Tom and SuAnn threw a great Memorial Day Weekend Party. We all had a great time and loved every minute conversing with old friends and making new ones.

Monday we continued to enjoy the sun and family by heading over Sunday evening to mark and patty's. It has become a tradition for our family to do this and the kids love hanging out with mom's cousin's children.

The sun just kept on shining and we did what we could to stay cool, as well as just enjoy the warmth that had been lacking for so long.

Family and Friends what more can you ask

2009-05-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

Well last week was busy and I am sure the summer coming,with the sun shining, will be even busier. I am trying to keep up on my scrapbooking pages so I don't get behind like I did last year. I am still catching up on last year. Anyway, I think I am doing pretty good and I enjoy sharing my "art" with others. Here are a few pages that I enjoyed doing. they really capture the important things in my life....my family and friends.

I must admit that I love throwing parties, especially for other people and David is way fun to surprise because while he knows that I am going to do something he never guesses what I am going to do because he likes the surprise. David had a birthday last week and for David, as soon as May hits, its his "birthday month" then his birthday week, then his birthday, and then his birthday weekend. Let me tell you it is quite annoying at times but secretly I find it kind of amusing because he is like a little child and truly that is what I love most about him. He keeps me from being too serious and helps me to see the lighter side of things. So this year I planned a "birthday bbq" for him and invited his friends(and mine too) It was a beautiful day, we had a full house and it was great to see him smiling from the morning he woke up, until his head hit the pillow.

last week we also had the opportunity to go and visit my grandparents. It is always such a delight to be with my family. It is even more fun to see my dad with his. to watch my dad visit with his parents helps me to see even more now how much he is like them and how I am so lucky to have been raised by him and that he was raised by them.

Some fun may events

2009-05-22T16:35:00.001-07:00

Here are some of the good times we have had this month so far. Last night we celebrated David's birthday and it was so much fun. the best part was the smile on his face at the end of the evening. We had a few friends and family over for a bbq and the weather was perfect. I haven't scrapped those pictures yet so be on the look out. Here are few to tide you over- if you've been looking. I know I haven't done a lot of blogging - i keep up weekly with my peace of mind blog-which I have made public and my moment to moment blog which is private. So here are the pictures you are looking for.

Outings with Nicholas

2009-05-04T21:19:00.000-07:00

Well we have been busy this month. Actually Nicholas and i have been busy. we got to go boating and to the zoo on the 2 days of sun we actually had this past month. I must admit it is fun to have only one child home and I really don't take advantage of it as much as I should. I have even come to enjoy going to the library again. oh, the thought of dragging 3 children to the library was exhausting but this past month I have gone twice with Nicholas and we both got to look at books. checkout was a breeze and well... I'll go back. Nicholas makes me smile and everyday i can count on him to ask "can I watch monster truck videos" every now and then i give in and log on to my youtube account to access my playlist of monster truck videos. he is usually glued for at least 30 minutes or until the computer times out and he can't see his videos anymore. both of our trips were made even more fun because Aunt Bonnie and Gretchen, Uncle Joe and Andrew came too! it has been even nicer since we realized Nicholas is allergic to pollen and got him some daily allergy medicine- it was downright painful, there for a while, to watch him scratch his eyes, sneeze and suck in his snot to keep it from dripping out his nose. but all is well and now I have the same problem- will it ever end? Anyway here are a few pictures of our outings. I'll get some more up in the next little while.

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

Hope your Easter was as enjoyable as ours. We watched one of our new DVD's in the morning. Had a spectacular choir program at church and spent the rest of the evening surrounded by friends and family. It was fabulous. Here is a look at the kids this morning as they saw their Easter basket. I must say when it comes to Easter baskets are all about the reason we celebrate this holiday. If it wasn't for our Savior and his sacrifice in Gethsemane and on the cross we would not be celebrating this holiday. He gave his life so that we could live ours eternally. Happy Easter!

April events so far

2009-04-09T11:10:00.000-07:00

Well it was spring break last week and we made a trip to Walla Walla to see our good friends. Oh it was so fun! The kids had a great time with their friends. It would have been nice to see the sun but oh well. After being in the house 4 day -with a few breaks in the weather so the kids could go to the park, jump on the trampoline, or run around, it was nice to go to the YMCA and swim for an hour in the warm "family" pool. We even got to spend an extra day due to the weather in the pass being less than desirable to travel through. I must admit it is hard for me to be away from home, even when I get to spend 3 days straight talking, scrapbooking and really doing nothing except hanging with my friend...you would think i would never want to return but me being who i am I looked forward to coming home to my home. I know, I know this week i want to go back-- I just can't be satisfied. It was a great time and we can't wait to see our friends again. We just wish they lived closer.

Prior to leaving for Walla Walla we had a Pre- birthday party for Nicholas. We wanted Grandpa to be there and since he was leaving for warm, sunny Arizona we celebrated a tad early. I can't believe my buddy boy is 4 years old. I will of course be posting a tribute to him when i finish scrapping his "actual" birthday pictures but until then here is a pre-tribute collage. I love this little boy and his smile, his goofiness, he eagerness...i love everything about him- even those things I don't like. :) He makes our family complete.

I can't believe i forgot to post about Alex's first blue and gold dinner for scouts. He and David got to make a cake together. It was actually a family effort because of time issues. The first cake Alex made from scratch all my himself, with my help in getting the ingredients out and measured but he did it all. Nicholas and friends, after being told not to touch, enjoyed taste testing the cake and I hurriedly whipped up another cake. That evening David and Alex frosted and decorated the cake together while i sat in another room so I wasn't tempted to tell them how to do it or get in the way. That evening as we ate dinner and admired all the other amazing cake displays Alex was "initiated" from Tiger to Wolf. It was fun and i look forward to many years of scouts- all the way through eagle- and of course to learning how to sew on patches--anyone up for teaching me how.

Alex finishes his wrestling Season

2009-03-18T16:16:00.000-07:00

We tried wrestling this year. It started in November and we explained to Alex it would go until March. We showed him the calendar explained that it would be a lot of practices and meets and he still wanted to do it. After his first couple practices I could tell his heart wasn't in the sport- he loved the friends but not the competition and spotlight on the mat. Well after his first meet he did not want to do it anymore and we had a long conversation about not quitting and how you have to keep practicing if you want to improve. He did not want to hear it and I wouldn't let him quit. Every practice was an argument and every meet we had to drag him out the door but as the season progressed so did he. He improved, he even had a few pins. At one point he wrestled a boy who was literally him a few weeks prior. After pinning the boy Alex exclaimed "that was so easy," as the little boy sat sobbing to his dad. We pointed this out to Alex and a little coaxing from us, he went over to console the little boy and explain to him what he had learned. Well, needless to say the season ended and I found myself asking Alex, just for fun, if he wanted to do this again next year. Much to my surprise, after many days and nights of "i hate wrestling and I don't want to do this anymore" he announced that he MIGHT do it again next year. We'll see. Here is a picture of his trophy from wrestling and a couple of him with his trophy from baseball last year. He is so pleased to have completed and not quit.

march 16, 2009

2009-03-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

Yikes has it been a month- I better update some thing---we had sickness here for the last few weeks- the dreaded flu/cold whatever it is. So I haven't been doing too much in the way of scrapping but here are a few pages. I do a lot of blogging of my thoughts on my peace of mind website if you want to be invited let me know. It is my ramblings about the things that I am teaching every week in Sunday School. There is a lot to learn not just about the gospel but about myself. I also have been keeping a personal journal about the kids and what they teach me everyday. I really am very blessed to be a mom and parent. A thought that was recently brought to my attention that I have been pondering upon is "what if the fruits of my parenting are not about how my children turn out but about how i do?" Hmmm! Interesting thought, huh! Here are a few moments captured of the fruits of my labor.

February 21

2009-02-21T21:59:00.000-08:00

So much has happened in the last couple weeks and i have been trying to keep up with journaling and writing and scrapping. It takes time but here are a few memories caught on camera.

Natalee was in her first play. It was so cute and i must admit I smiled everytime she came on stage. She asked after the long week of rehearsals and then her first performance...."Do i have to do this again next year?" I answered only if she wanted to and after a moment she replied, "good, I 'll have to think about it, It might not be my favorite thing." It was cute and I was impressed with her sense of forethought, she didn't totally give it up but realized she needed to think about it.

Next came Natalee's 6th birthday. I can only say, Princess, tea, girls, food and fun. David had a great time putting it on for her and I had a great time preparing it. I must admit I am a bit disappointed in myself for not getting pictures of David and the girls.

Next Alex's baptism...words cannot express the joy this mother felt as her son entered the waters for baptism. I know he is only 8 but I also know he felt something special about this day and it is one that he will always remember. How can you not when you are surrounded by so many family and friends who love you.

Flowers for me!

2009-02-06T15:01:00.001-08:00

I'm speechless! For those of you who know me, that doesn't happen to often. I just got off the phone with my husband and they aren't from him- he doesn't even know. He asked if they came from my other boyfriend. Whatever! Like I would admit it if they did. But the card gives me a clue "Lili, we think you're great Love all of..US"! So I know it is from a group of people, a family---friends I would assume. So I am blogging, in hopes that whoever they are from knows how much I absolutely love them and appreciate them. (Their friendship and the flowers) They are beautiful! And just so you can see the beauty you have brought into my life and my heart I am including a photo of them. I must admit I love the surprise...its the anonymity I can't stand. I want to embrace whoever it is and let them know that they are an answer to my prayers. Just the other day i was praying, very sincerely that someone would do something for me that was out of the ordinary and not expected. Something I didn't have to ask or hint at. (I was thinking along the lines of housework) but I will take these flowers in answer to my prayers and recognize that there are people out there who are inspired. (who are angels) Thank you for the reminder that while life gets chaotic, there is beauty all around, if we just take a moment to look for it.

My little nephew and his cheesy grin

2009-02-05T21:13:00.000-08:00

What a cutie! He sees the light on the camera and flashes the cutest grins. Isn't it so precious.

Natalee my drama queen

2009-02-05T15:15:00.000-08:00

At Alex's family birthday party I have a feeling Natalee was not getting the attention she needed so when there was a minute of breathing room Aunt Bonnie began to teach her about Improv--yeah I bet you want to know what she does when asked to improv me (her mom). Anyway, after a few minutes of that Aunt Bonnie got the camera and Natalee was good and ready to have a photo shoot. So Aunt Bonnie just snapped away. I must say. I can't help but Smile when I look at these pictures.

Alexander David Grover

2009-02-02T23:48:00.000-08:00

I have posted a lot about Alex as of late but hey its been a celebration of his birth which is pretty significant. I can't help but smile at the thought of my sweet boy and how much joy he brings to my life. What was even more fun was to see how much his friends find joy in him too. Here are pictures of our parties. Enjoy.

My Sweet Boy

2009-01-25T22:08:00.000-08:00

Well its the week we have been all been anticipating--I should say I have been--and Alex too. He is turning 8 years old in 4 days. This is a big thing for our family because he is going to be baptized. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints getting baptized is a big step and with this decision he will receive the gift of the Holy Ghost through the power of the priesthood. He will have the guidance and direction of the Holy Ghost throughout his life to help him to know the truthfulness of all things, to keep him from deception, and to help him to Choose the Right in a world of so much chaos.

Of course he is also pretty excited for his upcoming birthday party. He is having all of his friends over to watch a movie on our big screen- we are having a snack bar, popcorn and pop- 10 boys and lots of fun. These are the invitations that I made for each of the events. They mark a moment that we will remember for all our lives.

Nicholas' Passion

2009-01-23T17:39:00.000-08:00

For those of you out there who think I am making it up about Nicholas and his obsession with Monster Trucks---here's the proof. As i walked out to pick the other kids up at the bus stop I couldn't help but smile at the work he had put into lining up all his monster trucks because according to him, "monster trucks go in the dirt" He had great time playing in our "work site" that has been the greatest home made play area since Alex was 3 or so. Anyway here are some photos I had to snap to capture this moment.

Monster Jam

2009-01-21T23:30:00.001-08:00

Oh...it was so much fun! Let the pictures speak for themselves!

Good times!

2009-01-04T22:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas was filled with family and friends, gifts and games, socializing and food. The most fun was to watch the kids in anticipation of everything that was going on. As they get older I find myself enjoying holiday's even more. With the snow this year i found that all my planning was unsuccessful. Everything that i wanted to get done was still done last minute because the snow did not allow me to get out and about the way I would have liked. But with David's help and understanding it was all accomplished an our Christmas was memorable and enjoyable. Take a look at a few of our highlights here.

Beginning Anew

2009-01-04T21:08:00.000-08:00

I must say I have done a lot of blogging but I have been doing more private blogging. I decided this year to make my blogging more of a journal. I spend too much time on the computer and not enough time doing the things I know I should be doing ie. spending time with my kids, writing in my journal, seeking knowledge out of the best books, etc... I know these things are more important than some of the other things I have been doing with my time. I must admit I have been more idle than I should be. With the new year I have resolved to spend more quality time with my kids and husband, doing what they want to do, or talking about what they want to talk about. With that resolve comes capturing those moments on paper (or a blog) in my case. So I began a blog called moment by moment to daily write those things that I do with my children or those things that I learn from my children and husband. Another goal that I am beginning again is to keep a journal of those things I learn from the lessons i teach in Sunday School. I did it for the entire year of the New Testament and for the first half of the year of the book of mormon and then I allowed other things to take the place of the time I was setting aside for doing this. so I started a blog called peace of mind. I made theses blogs private but if you are interested in reading them I can invite you just let me know. My family is so important to me and I don't want my selfish desires to get in the way of teaching them and learning from them. I figure I have only a few years until they want to be with their friends more than me and if I don't become their friend now I will have a more difficult time keeping them as friends later. So most likely this blog will be kept up once or twice a month so that I can keep my other blogs up to date daily and weekly. I am sure every now and then I'll need to get my thoughts out on paper and this will be the venue for that. And of course I'll keep this posted with pictures of special events in our family. Upcoming Events are Alex's 8th birthday and his baptism. i will be posting an invitation to that special event for anyone who would like to attend. Until then begin anew with your New Year's Resolutions. Resolve to make changes- work hard at them- become a better you!

Christmas Newsletter

2008-12-23T08:53:00.000-08:00

due to snow and everything that doesn't get done when you are holed up at home I was unable to get our christmas cards out this year. So sad! So i am posting it here in hopes you will forgive me and know that we are thinking of everyone despite the fact you won't be getting a personalized, stamped card this year. So sorry! We truly wish all Happy Holidays!

Dearest Friends and Family,
The time has come again to celebrate the many gifts we have recieved throughout the year. Our greatest gift is YOU! No matter how our paths cross throughout the year you have made a difference just in knowing you are part of our life. Thank you for your thought, good wishes, prayers, kindess and love...it does not go unnoticed. Our family has continued to plug away at life. David celebrated 7 years at Metagenics and continues to teach scouts tothe 10-11 year olds. He celebrates the completion of his “man cave” with his built in Dolby Surround Sound- 110 inch screen
theatre. Lili began the year at University of
Washington and had to put it on hold-plans of
returning Winter 2010. She also got to visit her dear friend in Kansas for a week- touring all of the LDS church sites. She began running again andjust finished her first 5K with thoughts of doing a 1/2 marathon in the future. Alex started 2nd grade and is progressing in his reading and writing. He has a
passion for pokemon cards. He was on his first baseball team this year and is right now on a
wrestling team. He loves to play on the computer and the Wii. He especially loves to have friends over to play. Natalee started Kindergarten this year and just read her first book to me the other day. She loves to read and write and is finding a whole world opening up before her as she progresses. Both she and Alex began piano lessons-thanks to Uncle Rick- and she keeps herself busy with friends, art, writing and being outdoors. Nicholas started
Preschool this year and loves to ride the bus-just like Alex and Natalee. His speech is improving
tremendously and he is talking more and more. He went to his first Monster jam this year and has not stopped talking about it. He loves his car tracks and monster trucks. He wants to do whatever his brother and sister do and is no longer a “little boy” but a “big boy”. He loves to play with his buddy Tobin and is always sporting a smile every morning he wakes us up. He finished potty training this year and we are no longer buying diapers. Life is grand! Our annual camping trip was the best ever this year and I can only see it getting better. We are so blessed this season and would be remiss if we didn’t remember our Savior- Jesus Christ” in our blessings. He is the reason for the Season Thank you for your love and know that you are loved in return.

Happy Holidays!

The Grover Family

Celebrating 12 years

2008-12-15T18:40:00.001-08:00

Happy Anniversary to me!

2008-12-15T09:25:00.001-08:00

David and I have been married 12years as of yesterday. We had a wonderful afternoon saturday remembering why we got married- because we love each other. Despite the trials that come in marriage and family there are more blessings than we can count. Daily we grow and become better because of each other. We spent the day in Seattle walking around and seeing the holiday exhibits. We laughed, smiled, talked and there were no interruptions. We did what we wanted; together. I love David- i can be a little difficult at times- let's face it both of us can- but through it all he is still the one for me. He is patient and kind; not easily provoked, easy going, funny and well he loves me, in spite of me! Here's to 12 more and more!

Traditions

2008-12-03T11:17:00.001-08:00

We started a new tradition in our family this year and we had a wonderful time. We baked all sorts of cookies- classics like chocolate crinkles and snickerdoodles and new ones like russian tea cakes, lemon zingers, coconut macaroons, peanut butter drops and ooh...it tasted oh so good. Here is a compilation of our fun cookie baking day.

My Sweet Boy

2008-12-02T14:26:00.001-08:00

Alex is growing up. Its hard to believe because he is still my sweet boy. Since he is growing up right before my eyes i don't always see it and its hard to ignore. The other night I realized just how much he is growing up and also just how sweet he is. Since he was a baby before bed we always say prayers together and I sing him a song. As he has gotten older he has sung with me, or had a specific song he wanted me to sing but it was a tradition of sorts. Over the years David and i have split up the duties of putting the kids to bed and most often he ends up putting the boys to bed and i put Natalee to bed. But still when i get my turn with the boys each one, individually gets prayers and song with mom and David does the same. The other night, after wrestling practice, Alex had taken his shower and was waiting for us to put him to bed. Both David and I were exhausted and David said "hey, lets just say prayer together right here." (We were sitting on the couch talking and relaxing) I piped in and said "no, Alex needs his song" David explained they don't sing song anymore and asked Alex to confirm this, since it was an obvious shock to my mind. I looked at Alex and asked when did you stop singing songs, i just sang songs to you last night? He looked at me sheepishly and said, Mom-I only let you sing songs to me because you like it but really i am usually just to tired for songs. My jaw dropped and I was speechless ( and you know that doesn't happen to often) My sweet boy was only letting me sing songs to him because he thought it would hurt my feelings if he didn't. Well he was right, and I told him he was going to get songs from me until he was 18 years old and then I just hugged him tight. I got up off the couch and we went in and sang songs. How could I miss out on such a special memory between my sweet boy and myself. It is one I will cherish forever.

My first 5k

2008-12-02T11:45:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of October I was in serious need of exercise and my friend Leslie invited me to come walking with her one fine, crisp morning. I went, mostly for the social conversation, but also to get some much needed exercise. Well- she happens to walk faster than I do and I found that I needed to do a little jogging to keep up. We ended up running a bit and found that we liked running. We decided to get together 2x a week to keep up our efforts. After a few weeks of running I found that I loved being outdoors. The feel of the wind against my face and breathing in of fresh air (sometimes mixed with the fumes of passing cars) was invigorating. I began running every day- after I drop the kids at the bus or before david left for work. I told Leslie that I was doing the Turkey Trot 5K and she said she would do it too. When I first started jogging a mile killed me. i was winded, sore, and dreading how much further I had to go. Now 2 months later and a 5K behind me I am longing to do more. I can run up to 5 miles and am aiming at doing a 10K and possibly a 1/2 marathon. Running is my time to be alone, to think, to process my life, no one needs me, no one wants anything from me and I can think and act for myself. I'm still a bit sore but it reminds me I am active and living. Here are my before and after pics at the Thanksgiving day/Turkey Trot 5K. It was extremely cold and by the time it started my toes were a little numb and my nose was frozen and in spite of it I'll do it again next year.

I am thankful for....

2008-11-29T18:39:00.001-08:00

It is funny how kids minds are constantly thinking about things that as an adult we take for granted. I have noticed this recently with Nicholas. A few weeks ago I picked up Nicholas from school and while driving home told him that his friends T –n- T were coming to visit. He was thrilled! A few seconds later he pipes up in the backseat… T is not my buddy (pause) she’s my friend…but T is my buddy. T n T are twin boy and girl and it was interesting that Nicholas distinguished between the two of them. They all play so well together but Nicholas has already classified the difference between his “buddy” and his “friend.” Well anyway, time has passed and I hadn’t really thought about it again, except to tell a few people how cute I thought it was and then yesterday he made a comment that really put it all into perspective. We were all sitting around the table for Thanksgiving dinner, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Tradition involves everyone of speaking age to say what they are thankful for, starting with the oldest and ending with the youngest- Nicholas being the youngest. Of course we are all saying things like we are thankful for our family, our homes, our freedom, all the things that are on the forefront of our minds. When we asked Nicholas to say what he was thankful for with no hesitation he piped up, “I am thankful for my buddy, T.” He knows what is important and I have to say, I am thankful for him too, as well as his family. I love that Nicholas has already begun to make good friends that he will remember for his lifetime.

Twilight

2008-11-23T16:00:00.001-08:00

This weekend was the Twilight Premiere. It has been a countdown to seeing it and we had our tickets purchased over 2 weeks ago. The anticipation was eating away and yesterday was the big day. A large group of my family and friends headed to the theatre to see the book and characters come to life on big screen. As we waited in the theatre for the movie to begin there was talk of our favorite scenes in the book, our expectations (if any), and the feeling in the air. All the mid-teen to teen girls giggled and whispered and then the lights went dim. the moment had finally arrived... 2 hours 10 minutes later, it was over... in that 2 hours there was giggling, screaming (when Edward entered the scene), oohing and aughing, and silence! What did I think? Does it really matter...if you liked it...enjoy it..if you didn't...keep your mouth shut so that others can continue to enjoy it. I will say am one who enjoyed it for what it was. Was it what I expected, YES!!! It is a movie for teens and that is who was geared towards. Ask any mid-tween to teen and they were probably drooling and twitterpaited throughout the entire movie and didn't have sense enough to pick it apart 'til there was nothing left. I, on the other hand, am no longer a teen and am surrounded by movie critics with opinions about every detail...so while I know there are flaws if you want to look for them or maybe they even jumped out at you, I still choose to enjoy the film and take it all in. Watching my favorite scenes come to life on big screen was exhilarating. I will own it...why! Because of the memories that go along with it. I, for one, will see it again...for the same reason because it was fun and joyful and the friends that surround me are worth it. I'm sorry if you didn't like it...but please keep it to yourself and let me continue to enjoy it.

Tribute fo our Friends

2008-11-22T21:03:00.000-08:00

A little less than a year ago a family moved into our ward – the dixon’s. I had known E through various venues with the youth. When she showed up at church one Sunday, I was excited to see her and also find out they were here to stay. Instantly we became friends, our common interest in the game Settlers of Cataan made it even easier for our husbands to relate also. Who would have known the kind of friends we were to become. Over the past year we have had many a game night, movie night—social night, dinner night and so much more. Just the other day David commented, “I think D is the first friend I have every had the phone number memorized for.” I think that comment was an omen and I will, from this time forward, not allow David to memorize any of our friends numbers because that evening D broke the news that they would be moving…not just across town but to ARIZONA. Yuck! Who would leave beautiful, green, plush Washington to go to dry, allergy infested, brown Arizona? Well I guess they would and for good reason, D is going back to school. On the one hand we are very excited for them and the new adventures they will endeavor upon, on the other hand we are going to miss them tremendously. We have been very blessed in the past year to make some very good friends and we are glad they are not all moving but I must admit when the dixon’s leave, a piece of our heart will go with them. Of course we will miss their kids too- S, Z and J. It will not be as fun watching them grow up through pictures. Maybe one day we’ll make a trip to the desert and visit them but always they will be in our fondest of memories. We love you guys! Good luck and keep in touch!

Buddy Boy

2008-11-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

It's funny how a haircut can totally change the way you look at someone. We have been growing out Nicholas' hair for quite some time now and if you look at previous posts it was getting pretty long- and it was pretty dang cute. Well, David was growing for the sole purpose of cutting it like a mullet for Halloween. If you look at those pictures, he got his wish, under the condition it would not and could not stay like that. So, after a couple days too long of having my little boy look like...well the description is a bit dirogatory, anyway I took him to get his haircut yesterday and well...ta da! My little boy is growing up. He is too cute! Take a look for yourself.

Great site for winterwear!

2008-11-03T20:13:00.000-08:00

Take a look at this site below and you will fall in love with the gorgeous hats. there is even a way to custom order. this link will take you to her blog but if you click on the icon "Etsy" to the right it will show you the variety of hats she makes. I love the styles.

Shana's music, writing, etc etc etc.: My Very First GIVEAWAY!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T12:45:00.000-07:00

Halloween, Halloween, Halloween is here!
Ghosts and Goblins, Spooks and Bats are flying through the air.
Boo!
Halloween, Halloween, Halloween is here!
Ghosts and Goblins, Spooks and Bats are flying through the air.
Boo!
*sung to the tune of Jingle Bells

Here's to a Safe Halloween From the Grover Family

Update on Natalee's school Photo

2008-10-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

Natalee came home today and i was showing her the pages I did for her, Alex and Nicholas. (see entry below to see what I was showing her.)Leave it to her to comment- "But mom, where is my photo like Alex and Nicholas?" Yes i put an extra pic of the 2 boys but I thought the one I had of Natalee just said it all. I guess it wasn't enough for her. So here is the updated page- and it has been approved by Natalee.

School Pictures

2008-10-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

I don't buy the professional photos for the kids. I think sticking them in front of camera in the middle of the school day cannot capture the essence of their personalities. As they get older I may reconsider but for now on the day of "School Picture day" they get dressed up (so they'll fit in at school) and of course they choose what they want to where (It's all their doing) and i just take photos of them in the morning before they catch the bus. I just took a photoshop class from a good friend and learned a few new techniques and i thought I would try them out on their "home" school photos. Take a look. you can see the original photos in my previous post and see what photoshop allowed me to do with their scrapbook pages. I truly love my kids and these photos capture them in ways that only a mother can cherish.

Joy in little moments

2008-10-24T20:49:00.000-07:00

I love reading other peoples blogs because a lot of them give me insight into myself that I may not have ever gotten. Each of my friends gives me thought about different aspects of my life; things like my kids, my husband, being a mom, etc… Reading blogs helps me put my life into perspective and prioritize in a way I wouldn’t without having read their thoughts. I guess you could say I am voyeuristic- I peep into others’ lives… and for a moment I see something that only I could see, at that moment in time. Lately I have been thinking a lot about time and how it seems to tick away second by second- sometimes without my even realizing it. The other morning I was laying in bed thinking about something, I don’t even remember what, but all of a sudden, moments of my child’s life past before me until he was grown. I don’t remember the events- it came and went so quickly and yet it entranced me for a brief moment and when it was over, it startled me. It got me thinking even more about what I am doing with my time and how when those seconds pass away, I don’t get them back- not even one second of it. That moment has been with me for almost a week and I can’t get it out of my mind. I have to think it was or is a personal revelation, an epiphany, of some sort. My children are a joy and yet I sometimes get so wrapped up in myself that I forget that. I was gone for a little over 24 hours last weekend at Time out for Women. The hours were filled with motivational, inspirational, spiritual, uplifting words and suggestions on finding joy in our lives, despite being surrounded by so much negativity. I found myself thinking a lot about my children and my husband. What am I doing to show them the joy they give me? Am I getting so caught up in myself that I am losing sight of what is most important to me? I found myself this week putting more effort into making little moments make a lasting impression. I found myself playing Candyland with Nicholas, even though he didn’t want to play by the rules. I found myself snuggling up with Natalee, reading a book and singing songs and just letting her know she is loved, the way she needs to be told. I found myself spending more quality time helping Alex with spelling and other aspects of homework. I found myself taking time to sit down for tiny moments with David and talk with him- without rushing off to do something else. This is not to say I didn’t find time for myself too. I spent time running mile after mile, listening to my old school walkman, thinking in my head, making goals for the day to day stuff. I was able to do some scrapbooking. I was able to talk on the phone, I was able to read, I cleaned my house- including the bathrooms. Yet in all this “work” I found joy. Joy in knowing I was doing something productive, Joy in knowing I was creating lasting moments, Joy in knowing that I am a work in progress, Joy in knowing I am the mother of 3 beautiful children, Joy in knowing my husband sees the “real me” and loves me in spite of it, Joy in the relationships I have established past and present, Joy in the knowledge I have of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and the hope that comes in having that as a guidance in my life, Joy in the glimpses I have that remind me of my joy and help me to get back on track. I am so happy with my life and while things around me want to take that joy from me I know what I need to do to be at peace and keep that joy in the forefront of my mind. I need to stay focused on those things that bring me joy- my husband, my kids, my friends and the gospel of Jesus Christ. I need to take the focus off myself and put it on others’ and their happiness- in return I am happy and full of joy. So thanks to my friends and family who give me those reminders and help me to become the best me I can be.

Thoughts running through my head

2008-10-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

*Disclaimer- these really are my thoughts- it many not be enlightening but its my way of clearing my head.

I haven’t written anything for awhile and this is not because I don’t have anything to say. More likely because I have so many things on my mind that I can’t narrow it down to just one thing so I’ll be brief about a few different subjects.
1st- I finished the Twilight series- I started writing this long drawn out piece on why I like the book and well…it can all be summed up with just a few words. I liked that Bella accomplished what I hope to accomplish in just a few years- she went from being a selfish, all about me, young woman to a selfless, all about “we” woman. I guess that is what happens when you “grow up” in a matter of a few years. She recognized the talents she had and used them to protect those she loved rather than use them to save her. I could go into this long drawn out analysis but really my take on it only matters to me. I figure that those who read it will take what they need to out of it as it pertains to them at that time in their lives. I loved the passion she and Edward had for each other and I loved that she opened herself up, at the end, to allow him to see her innermost thoughts. I wonder if I am willing to do the same, but what a beautiful scene to play over and over in my mind. I know a lot of people who wanted there to be a big battle at the end and for someone to pay for the heartache they had experienced. However, I liked how it all ended. I guess I am more of a passivist than a warrior and I loved how everyone coming together as one, against their enemies, defeated them. Without each other they would have all failed and lives would have been lost. Unity is the only thing that will win in this world of chaos. There are so many power hungry, greedy, selfish souls that will do anything to break us and bring us into their world through deception and fear. I know read a lot into this book but I guess that is what I needed at this time of my life. Because of her love for her child she was willing to sacrifice all that she had so that Renesmee could live and love. Isn’t that what a mother (and father) does?
2nd-oh, I hate to say it but “politics” is plaguing me. I am not a “politics” person in fact I will be the first to admit “I know nothing” but because of the state of this nation and our world I find that I must give in and actually do some research. I feel like I have to go to school and take a class that I don’t want to take. There is no motivation to do the homework except I want to pass the test in the end. Only this test there is no right or wrong answer, you just have to be able to explain why in a big essay format. With that being said I must say I hate this time of voting and choosing- I hate all the spam that we get supporting one candidate or the other, I hate the exaggerated, lack of detail ads we see all over the media, I hate the back biting that goes along with having different opinions. I hate the lack of respect others have for someone who doesn’t see things the same as they do. I hate the blame that is put on the previous president or party. I hate that we (and I mean as a nation) don’t take responsibility for ourselves and that we expect our government to for us what we should be doing for ourselves. That being said I will do my homework and make an informed decision based on what I believe to be the lesser of 2 evils- so far neither candidate gets a high rating in my book so it will come down to which one is closer to my ideals. I may be in the clouds, I may be uninformed, I may not know everything but I have an idea of the kind of world I want to live in and I have hope that someday it will come to pass. Until then I must do my part, I must lead by example and live in such a way as to be part of the world that I dream of. It starts with me doing my part and not blaming someone else for the problems I have. It starts with me changing my attitude and instead of living in a “me” world living in a “we” world, what works for me may not be the answer for someone else but it is my responsibility to find a way so that we can live together as a unified whole. How that will happen…well I have my ideas and you have yours! Let’s just find a way to bring those ideas together.
3rd- and this is off track but it is something I have had on my mind. Have you ever had someone in your life that tests your patience to the core? I am not talking about the daily grind with my children or the off and on disagreements with your spouse but someone who no matter how hard you try puts you on the defense every time you come into their presence. I have had a few such people in my life- I know hard to imagine for those who know me. Most of these people I have come to respect over time and while I still get defensive I have learned to see their views and respect them however there is one person in my life who I cannot seem to find that respect for. In fact I was talking with David the other day about it and really frustrated at my lack of empathy. Why can I not forgive this person for the hurt that she/he has caused me? I was justifying my lack of forgiveness by saying that most people who hurt me in my life I choose to distance myself from but this situation does not allow me to do so and so I was explaining that it was OK to feel this bitterness because it has been demonstrated over and over to me that change will not happen. No more than an hour later I was sitting in church and listening to someone share the same kind of experience she was having and her struggle with the same feelings I am having. I felt as if she was sharing her words specifically directed at me. It is my responsibility to forgive over and over again-sometimes these are challenges we are faced with only to strengthen us. If I can’t forgive how can I expect to be forgiven? It’s not like these aren’t thought I haven’t thought before but for some reason I heard them this time and while I still find it a challenge my resolve is strengthened and I will continue to persevere. I will continue to find reason to love rather than hate. Not only will I be blessed for it but so will those around me. I guess the world needs more of this and if it doesn’t begin with me, where will it begin.
Finally, on the other end of the spectrum, I find myself again very thankful for the people in my life who cause me to ponder, meditate, and gather knowledge that I have not had or have not considered before. I am grateful to be respected by so many who feel comfortable to share their knowledge, opinions, and insight sometimes knowing that I don’t necessarily feel the same. Because when they do I am enlightened and strengthened by their experiences and feel a greater sense of unity. I have come to realize that there is more than one way to look at every situation and it’s not about being right or wrong it’s about understanding and making an informed choice based on your current situation or sometimes making a choice based on faith for long term situations. There have been people throughout my life who have made choices that didn’t necessarily benefit them but in the long term blessed my life tremendously. I love them for it. I would not be where I am in my life without their love, their understanding, their selflessness. There are people who come into your life and you know there is a connection that can’t be explained. Those connections never go away, they bless my life daily even after being separated by distance and circumstance but I know that someday we will be able to look back on our lives and see the purpose. I am grateful for all who have made that connection with me who have helped me become all that they see in me and more. You will continue to bless my life here and eternally.
These are my thoughts- I know too much running through this head of mine but has I have said before writing is my therapy and now that I have it out on paper I can continue to ponder these thoughts without having them running through my head continuously.

Tribute to Grandma Pearl

2008-09-20T12:30:00.001-07:00

Thelma Pearl Kaster
David's Grandma turned 90 years this year. At the party we surprised her with we all had to stand and say something about her. I felt a bit awkward doing so but as I stood to speak my heart was full of emotion. This is a woman who, when she welcomes you into her heart, holds you close forever. Everyone who knows her, knows all about her 2 girls and her grand kids. When I married into this family I automatically became a grandchild and have been treated as one ever since. Ultimately she is an example of loyalty, love, and compassion. Her love for her departed companion Wally will forever be etched in my heart and mind as an example of the friendship that should be between husband and wife. They were loving, forgiving, kind, accepting and oh so much more. They could joke without guile, they accepted without strings attached and most of all they lived what they taught. I love this woman and long to live the same life as she, so that in the end when it is my time...I will leave this life having lived it fully and being surrounded by the ones I love. Here's to many more years Grandma!

I feel better already!

2008-09-17T16:01:00.000-07:00

I got this on my email and had to share it with everyone- it is so me!

By following simple advice heard on the Dr. Phil show, you too can find inner peace. Dr. Phil proclaimed, 'The way to achieve inner peace is to finish all the
things you have started and have never finished.'

So, I looked around my house to see all the things I started and hadn't finished, and before leaving the house this morning, I finished
off a bottle of Dr. Pepper, a carton of Ice Cream, a package of Oreos, the remainder of my old Prozac prescription, the rest of the
cheesecake, some Doritos, and a box of chocolates. You have no idea how freaking good I feel right now.

A priceless gift!

2008-09-16T23:16:00.000-07:00

Parenthood! (Putting someone else's needs before your own) It’s got to be the most amazing gift a person can experience. Granted there are those who don’t see it as a gift and well…it’s all in your attitude. But for me as I get deeper and deeper into my role as a mom, as I watch my friends and family do the same I am constantly amazed at how it changes you; how being a mom (or dad) allows you to become someone you could never be without having children of your own, however it comes to pass. I know I talk about my kids and what I learn from them all the time-- I have too; its my job. But can I tell you what I learn from others who are moms and dads. Shoot! I think I have plagiarized everyone else’s parenting skills and made them my own. For instance, “M” feeds her children oatmeal every day, she’s even blogged about it. When I first met her I thought, wow! I need variety. Well, I now see the genius in that (healthy, filling, low cost, no thinking about what to eat in the morning, no fighting over which cereal each kids wants…the list goes on and on). So now, since school has started…the kids get oatmeal every day (except on the weekends…then I might spice it up with French toast). As I was talking to my mom today (and my sister) I was reminded that is what we ate every day, which I now realize is the reason I was against oatmeal for breakfast in the first place. Another instance, “Ali” discussed options for me when it comes to the humongous tantrums Alex throws when he doesn’t want to do homework (which is really just 15 minutes of reading and about 5 minutes of math). I couldn’t have done it on my own and with the brainstorming session I have now found something that works (at least for the time being). “L” and “M” teach me about making the most of our time that we have with our kids now (it’s only a few years and they won’t want me around). I have learned organization (I am getting better), preparedness, selflessness, patience, kindness, tone of voice, love and oh-so much more. I couldn’t do all this on my own. ( I am still perfecting most of these, but truly, I wouldn’t care about doing any of this- if it wasn’t for my kids). I wouldn’t be able to see my life through someone else’s eyes without my kids. Having them to take my eyes off myself and focus my heart on them is a gift… a priceless gift. As with any gift sometimes I need to be reminded of how I felt when I received it… I need to be reminded that I am better with this gift then without it…I need to not take this gift for granted. Everyone who is a parent or will be a parent has their own parenting styles and I am so grateful to be able to learn something from each of them. As I think about the last almost 8 years since becoming a parent I wouldn’t take back anything. Now is my time to be a mom and I am going to make the most of it…so my kids will know how much I cherish them, respect them, and most of all unconditionally love them.

I have issues!

2008-09-11T10:03:00.000-07:00

It has been a week of school now…and for the most part I have stuck to my goals; I may not be up at the same time everyday but I am up by 7am and that is progress for me. It is against everything I have ever done-unless I had to work. But I must admit I get more done and I feel like I have accomplished something every day. The sun shining every day for the last week has helped quite a bit with this and I hope I can make this a habit before the clouds and rain appear. Another thing that I have done pretty well with is getting back to better eating habits…I can’t say I don’t jump off the wagon at full speed every once in a while but I would 80% of the time I am eating properly and watching portions. What a difference it makes in my attitude and self esteem. I don’t know why I am so caught up in my weight- I can’t think of a time in my life where I wasn’t concerned about it…I maybe didn’t do anything about it but it was always on my mind. It is kind of a consuming thing but not nearly as bad when I am eating the way I should. It’s all about moderation and self control as with everything in this life is. I wish those two things came naturally to me but they don’t so I continue to try over and over again. So why I am I writing this…well the kids going to school has brought back so many memories and well I realize I have had these same problems well…since I can remember. Does it ever go away? I guess they just make me who I am and these are issues I am always going to have to battle. I can either go into the battle with a good attitude or a bad one… the latter will make it more bearable.
Another issue that I have been constantly thinking about is that of “relationships.” I must admit, and those who know me know this, I am fiercely loyal. As a youth I realize loyalty in my eyes, was more of obsession in others’ eyes. Yikes! How embarrassing. Now don’t get me wrong, I wasn’t stalkerish-or was I?? But I have to say I had a hard time moving on, dealing with change, giving my time to other activities and why? Because I was afraid if I wasn’t available at the drop of a hat for my friends they wouldn’t want to be my friend anymore. Pathetic…isn’t it! I didn’t realize this of course at the time. In fact I am just realizing it. Some friends knew this about me, even before me, and yet they were still my friends. Well maturity and self esteem has grown with me and these things are learning tools for the rest of my life and yet I know my children will have to learn them on their own. I only hope I can let them experience without the heartache that I experienced. But still I am loyal- it’s a loyalty that is now healthy. My friends that I had back then, for the most part, are still my friends. I don’t have to be around them constantly. I don’t have to talk to them daily. I don’t have to know what they are doing at all times but I do have to know they are loved, cared for, and healthy. The same goes with the friends I have now! Once you are my friend, you are always my friend. You have captured a part of my heart that never goes away. While you may take different roads, you may find different friends, but no matter what “I will always love you!” You know who you are—don’t forget it. Life may allow us to be in each other’s lives at another time or maybe memories will be all we have. I am happy with my life and wouldn’t want it any other way- I have learned, I have grown. I will continue to be fiercely loyal to all who come into my life and make it better. Thanks to you for “having patience with me” and allowing me to grow and learn in your presence. We make each other strong and we will meet in the eternities knowing we each had a purpose in the others life. Until then…you are always in my heart. Thanks for the memories-past, present, and future.

ohanepecosh 2008

2008-09-08T20:52:00.001-07:00

Tradition!

2008-09-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

Every year for the past 12 years (except when we were away at school) we have gone to Mt. Rainier (ohanepecosh) to camp over Labor Day. the kids count down days until we get to go. It is a great time for all and every year we can't wait to do it again. Here's to another 12 years.

2 down - 1 to go!

2008-09-04T11:19:00.000-07:00

School started yesterday and well...we're off! Alex and Natalee were so excited they couldn't think straight. I made a resolution that if I can't be in school then I would put the same amount of effort into being a mom as I did being a student- so every day (I am on day 2) I have made a list of what needs to be done. First off...NO TV in the morning. I can't believe how much more we get done and how much less bickering is taking place. Oh...its music to my ears. Anyway, I get up at 6.45a with Alex and we read scriptures... then he goes to clean his room and I make breakfast...we actually eat breakfast as a family. After breakfast everyone gets dressed, brushes their teeth and tidies rooms... I make lunches and we listen to Disney Channel music, read books and hang out until its time to go to the bus. It makes for a nice morning. So far, so good! I hope I can keep it up...the atmosphere in the morning is so much more pleasant. Here are some pics of the first day of school. So much fun!

For the strength of women in the latter days

2008-07-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

View my page on Our Ladies Room

Check out this site for LDS women. We all could use added strength from women who share the same core beliefs. Whether you are LDS or not we all as women need to find common ground to strengthen and lift each other to new heights. Feel free to ask any questions you may have.

Most everything I learned about myself-I learned from my children.

2008-07-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

Ok so it has been a while since I have posted I haven’t done too much thinking with the kids at my feet, under my feet and on my feet all summer long. Since returning from Kansas I have been trying to keep the kids and myself busy. I wanted to make sure the kids had a good summer so I have been trying to have something for them to do every day, whether it is going somewhere or just having a friend to play with. So from the Monday after my return until now we have been busy-thanks to the sun being present. We have gone to the beach, to Manchester state park, Aunt Bonnie's (on their cool bike hill), to the lake, and had numerous friends over for dinner, lunch and snacks. Except for the few days where Nicholas was sick, Alex was sick and mom felt sick from cleaning up the sick – we have stayed busy. Of course if you ask Alex- we don’t ever do anything. Being busy is a lot of work…I am exhausted and I still have 6 more weeks to fill. Thank goodness we have plans to go to Mt. St. Helen’s, Ohanepecosh, Lake Sylvia, Ocean Shores and a few other fun trips. Of course I am making sure to take pictures so I have proof when they grow up and want to know why we never went anywhere. I am glad to be a scrapper so I can at least have that as a journal for the kids to enjoy as they get older. I do have to say though, my kids, while they argue, whine, tattle, and truly make me want to pull out my hair, they are my life and I love to do things with them. I love seeing them explore new things. I love the smile on their faces when we are doing things together. I love how they ask questions and think they know answers to the most complex things. I love how they think they are “big” and they can do anything. (that will never go away) I love that I learn more about myself through their eyes than anything else in this life. Kids are hard work- but they truly are the most rewarding- it’s not instant reward but it’s the kind of reward that comes after working for it and looking back and realizing you could have never discovered “that” without them. Children truly are a blessing from God. Not only do I grow closer to them but to my Heavenly Father because it is by having children that we glimpse just a small portion of the love our Heavenly Father has for each one of his children (everyone that ever has lived, lives, or will live). It is hard to think about my kids making poor choices, I can only imagine what our Heavenly Father thinks of all his children on this earth and the choices they are making. But as a mom of children I am realizing, my kids can only learn from their choices, all I can do is teach them the best that I can, give them opportunities for learning, and be a good example- the rest is up to them. (That’s a scary thought) I continue to glean from my children all that I can learn and continue to try to be an example that they want to emulate, even to the slightest degree, praying that they will make good choices for themselves as well as be examples to others in their lives. Isn’t that what this life is all about?

*Picture of Natalee teaches me that life is too short to not enjoy it to its fullest. Not to be afraid to put yourself out there for others to see you, love you and learn from you

*Picture of Alex teaches me that we need to take time to sit back and observe, to relax, to reflect. That while we need to enjoy life to the fullest we must be willing to take a moment and enjoy the view from a distance.

*Picture of Nicholas teaches me that we should not let the "owies" in life get us down. That we need to pick ourselves up, recognize the hurt and where it came from and then move forward a better person for having experienced it. (Don't get me wrong, some "hurts" take a long time to heal but that doesn't mean we have to let the hurt control every aspect of our life. I am sure there are exceptions but its just a simple observation.

I'm not in Kansas anymore!

2008-07-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

* I took this picture as the sun was setting on the Mississippi river

What was it like to be in Kansas City with my friend Leslie-without any kids and no one to answer to but myself? Delightful, Mind clearing, relaxing, and oh so much more. I think that every mom, wife, woman should take time such as this to gather her wits and renew themselves- allowing for time to reflect, think, and appreciate the life they have. A day or two isn’t enough, 5-7 days is perfect not only do I find myself longing to be with my husband and children but I am pretty sure they have had ample time to feel the same about me. (I hope) There is nothing like spending time with another family to make you appreciate your own. Pat and Leslie are amazing and I am so thankful to them for putting me up in their guest room and taking me to see all the sites. In 6 days we went through Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Illinois. I was able to take in all of the LDS Church Sites in those areas, as well as see the bank that Jesse James held up and the city that Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens) based his book Tom Sawyer off of. I, of course took a plethora of pictures and will be posting them for all to see when I get them sorted through. I look forward to scrapping them. I am sure a number of my LDS friends will ask which site I enjoyed the most and I must answer- having following in the footsteps of the early saints, beginning in Independence, MO and concluding in Carthage, IL- with all the reflection and the entirety of the trials they endured for their faith- I must say Carthage Jail was all encompassing. My heart was full of emotion the spirit truly testified of the reality of these events further solidifying my testimony that the prophet Joseph Smith is and was a prophet of the Lord Jesus Christ and that he restored His church to this earth in this-the last-dispensation. I am so grateful for this once in a life time opportunity to be a part of something bigger than myself. Of course, I loved going to see the Marketplace in Kansas City and eating some authentic Kansas City BBQ. We also had an early 4^th of July picnic with grilling and fireworks to top it off. We played a great new board game called “Ra” which anyone who loves strategy gaming will enjoy. We swam in their new pool and went sliding down the waterslide ( I even got Leslie to do it when her kids had been asking her since they got it.) *Leslie, you have to admit it is exhilarating. We went to swim meets and baseball games for the kids and made excellent Rigatoni last night for dinner and to top it off saw the movie Hancock ( I personally enjoyed it- it was full of humor, drama, and action jam packed in and topped off with googling at Will Smith.) * there is a bit of language in it for those who are sensitive to it. The entire trip was fantastic and the icing on the cake I had time to read a book for fun and I am hooked- I am sure you have heard of the Twilight Series by Stephanie Meyer and well, after hearing about it myself and receiving the first book from my sister in law for my birthday I started and finished it in record pace while visiting, staying up until the late hours of the night turning the pages faster and faster so I could see what was going to happen. I have butterflies when I am reading the love story and I feel everything they are feeling as if it is happening to me. Once you start reading it, its like a drug and you can’t put it down. Its definitely for tweens but as an adult it takes you back and makes you feel those feelings all over again. I can’t wait to read the next one- in fact as I sit her in the Kansas City airport I am hoping that the Denver airport carries the paperback. Thank you again, my dear husband who gave me this opportunity and my friends and family who helped make it possible.

My husband is great!

2008-06-27T22:13:00.000-07:00

I write this in tribute to my husband. Why, you may ask? Well I sit here on a United Airlines Flight, my ultimate destination being Kansas City, KS. It doesn’t sound like a glorious destination however it is not the destination but what awaits me there—my friend, Leslie. As a mother’s day/birthday gift, David presented me with the go ahead to plan a trip to see her. I could write an entire piece about her and the connection we made in such a short time but I must get back to praises about my husband. As of late I have really been thinking about him and the relationship I have with him. We have been married for 11 ½ years and I must say we have been blessed with the things we need, sometimes want…we graduated (he did with my help) from college with no financial burdens, we have 3 wonderful children and yes, we still have each other…we own our home and have even been able to build a garage this year…we truly are blessed. We both come from families who strengthen us to various degrees and support us in all our endeavors, which adds to our already gifted life together. These are a few of my thoughts but those thoughts are about “us” as an entity—we complement each other and bring out personality traits some good, others not so good. Yet my thoughts drift deeper. My natural instinct is to think about what could be better, how he could do more, love more, understand more but what good does that do. Do I want him to do the same for me? I can readily admit his list, while he doesn’t voice it, would be twice as long as mine and so I take those thoughts and set them aside to make way for the true gratitude I have for him and what he does for me. Not only am I on my way to Kansas to relax and reconnect with a dear friend but I get to be gone for entire week. Granted we have family members watching the kids while he is at work but the evenings will be filled with making dinner, cleaning up dishes, jumping on the trampoline, probably some Wii time, song time, prayer time, teeth time, bed time (probably later than normal) and mornings beginning at 6am with Nicholas crawling into bed next to let him know he is hungry for breakfast---and this is just during this week. He gets the entire weekend with the kids and to prepare a talk for Alex to give in primary. I am so grateful he recognizes the need I have to be with friends. Yes, this is a big trip and he has been counting down the days and hours for me but he does this for me weekly. I get to go to the movies, get my nails and toes done, go out to dinner, talk on the phone, do my scrapbooking, and oh, so much more and he makes it possible. While I occasionally complain that all he does is the dishes, I am actually very thankful he does them. I hate to do the dishes and while it may not get done to my standard - the dishes are loaded and unloaded and I don’t have to do it. After a long day at work he always comes home with a smile and is ready to give me a hug with open arms and spend some quality time together. He wrestles with the kids, jumps on the trampoline, is bombarded with a myriad of questions, comments, stories and everything else that comes with having kids and still he smiles and has more patience with me than he needs to with the kids because by the end of the day I am on shut down mode and ready for someone to take over. I know this is rather selfish of me as I think about it more and more and so I find myself being even more thankful for him and wanting to make the necessary changes to show him the love I have for him. But even more so I find myself wanting to treat him as I would a friend. Now we both have different ideas of what a friend is and quite often I find myself treating him less than that and so as I make this tribute I commit to doing so. I truly have a husband to be proud of. I know have a lot more in him that I fail to recognize but as I put aside the natural tendency to think of me and make room for his wants and needs as he does for me I am able to see clearer than ever. I love my husband…he is my friend, my sweetheart and I will treat him so from this day forward. (I do reserve the right to make errors in my endeavor and ask for forgiveness and in so doing become even more appreciative of his love for me and my love for him.)

Campfire fun

2008-06-15T19:31:00.001-07:00

Last night after dinner with my dad we went over to their house and had a bonfire. It was great fun and I captured a few photos that i think turned out very well. Take a look....

As for my dad...on Father's Day

2008-06-15T19:05:00.001-07:00

This year for the first time in many years all of my dad's daughters were here for Fathers Day...so we decided to take him to dinner. He chose to go to the Outback...not my favorite place but hey it's all about dad. As we waited to be seated us girls sat around talking while Dad watched the US Open- hey isn't that just the way it is. Anyway, dinner was nice and the conversation was even better. We talked about our favorite memories growing up and laughed about the time Gretchen and Christian were playing hide and seek...gretchen found the best place to hide-the dryer-next thing she knew Christian turned it on...now of course we laugh now but really as a parent now- that is scary- the dryer will always be off limits to hide and seek! We talked about how dad-or maybe i just remembered- but hey dad used to tell us all stories and sing us songs before bed. We played games as we got older...we got to go to dad's baseball games...I remember dad teaching me to ride a bike. I remember going to the community swimming pool and dad taking us to the park afterwards. I remember for one of my birthdays dad taking a day off and we all went to Enchanted Village...so many memories. Best of all my dad taught me to teach by example because he was always a great example. I remember when i first got married and david and i had an argument over something that I don't even remember...he woke me in the middle of the night after I had said something like "my dad would never do that..." anyway when he woke me he said "I bet your dad wasn't perfect when he first got married!" Now I know my dad wasn't perfect but I also know I would like to be what he has become and more! Thanks Dad for all you do to inspire, guide and lead me and all of your children.

Happy Fathers Day

2008-06-15T19:03:00.001-07:00

Birthday Wishes

2008-06-11T09:34:00.000-07:00

So it was my birthday a couple days ago and yes I am another year older...33 to be exact. Birthdays to me are for one thing and one thing only...a time to get together with friends and family and celebrate the joy they bring to me throughout the year. I had a wonderful birthday...my sister came over and helped me clean my house...which was a much needed and wonderful thing for her to do. I have decided that I need her to come over once a month just to give me company and the motivation to do it myself. My other mom -David's mom- took me shopping all day Saturday and purchased a few nice pieces of clothing for me...My mom gave me a year of movies...once a month whether it be a rented video or movie at the theatre, for the next year i get to share an evening with her watching movies...and I have all the goodies to go with it. My husband David...after being told by myself that my trip to Kansas would be my gift...even went out and purchased the plush, soft body pillow I had mentioned over a month ago for my gift. It was a nice day and ended with friends and family coming over to share the evening with me. I didn't get the word out to everyone... it was kind of last minute... but those who were there made me feel special, loved and a part of something bigger than myself. Each person in my life helps me to see the person I can be, through their eyes. Looking back over the past year I am very grateful for the experiences I have had, the friends I have made, the choices that have blessed my life, and for the growing I have done. I am better than I was last year and I owe it all to the people that grace my life and teach me through their example. So, as I bring this to a close I make my birthday wish for the next year...I wish that I can be the same kind of example to my friends and family that they are to me...I wish that I can learn to hold my tongue and treat everyone the way I would want to be treated-with the respect and love they deserve...that I can get lost in the service of others-my family included-and forget about myself yet by doing so, find myself in a way I never have before. Happy Birthday to me...until next year!

Is it really all about me?

2008-06-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

To be or not to be… selfish!

Is it really all about me? A while ago I got in a long drawn out conversation with someone I know about selfishness- I told this friend they needed to stop being so selfish. (Don’t worry we have that kind of relationship) Needless to say the conversation led to them saying that everyone puts themselves first and that no one is unselfish. At the time I was taken aback by it because I do find myself, more often than not, to be unselfish or at least I feel that I try to be- so I don’t really think of myself as selfish. However, since then it has been a real eye opener to see things from a different vantage point. I AM SELFISH! All of us are selfish, that is the natural tendency of all human beings. I think the goal in life is to control that tendency to a point in which it benefits others. If I was so caught up in myself that I couldn’t see others for their goodness and mercy in my life, if I was so blind that I blamed everyone around me for the negativity surrounding me than I could never find true happiness. I could tell everyone I was happy with my life and the things in it but underneath, deep down if I really thought about it I would know things could be better. However, if my selfishness was to use my special talents and gifts to help others, if my selfishness was something I freely admitted and continued to strive to put others first and I constantly was seeking for opportunities to share what I have, whether material, emotional, or spiritual, than I would be on the road to greater things. In my marriage I constantly strive to do this for my husband. I am not perfect, in fact I am far from it but it is the foremost on my mind to work on. As a mom, it is a little easier to be unselfish because more often than not my kids can’t do it without me. In this case the tendency is to tell them “I’ll do it later,” or “you can do it yourself I am busy.” Now sometimes, for them to learn priorities this must be said but if it gets to be habitual it is time to step back and reevaluate. I actually believe I am the most selfish with my husband and children. With friends it is easy to be unselfish because to do things for them is unexpected while with my husband and children it feels like it is required and it no longer is fun to do things because there seems to be no appreciation yet this is no excuse because as I have mentioned before this life, I believe, is about learning to give without expecting anything in return. And as I think about it more that is the definition of unselfishness. The times in which I give without expecting a thing are the times when I am most happy. Don’t get me wrong receiving is lots of fun and I can be happy with receiving too, but the sadness comes when I give and expect to receive and don’t get anything. So why not give…without ever expecting. Is this something that I can accomplish in this life? I wonder… Some days are better than others. I am learning…in fact it is easier with some people than it is with others. Well, enough said, I am sure we all have our own take on this subject, this is only a brief bit about mine. It’s a daily challenge- at the end of my life I hope I am more unselfish than not…I hope that I can look back and see more happiness than not… and ultimately, I hope that through my actions others find more happiness than not in their own lives. So , i guess the answer to my question is...it is really all about me however it is all about me choosing to make my life more about someone else.

Tribute to Friendship

2008-06-05T16:14:00.000-07:00

Tribute To Friendship

I have been told a lot lately how good a friend I am which I have to be honest is very flattering. In fact it brings a smile to my face and gives me the much needed self esteem to keep plugging away at life. I am writing this however to let all those who are giving me the compliments know that they are just as good of friends to me. I know I am really good at calling people- I always have been, ask my cousins and friends that I have had since I knew that a telephone could keep me in touch with people who didn’t live next door. I love talking to people. Even if they don’t want to hear from me- I am there. Over the years though, I have figured out how to tell if someone wants to talk to me or doesn’t and I make sure to keep it short if it is the latter. But those who want to talk get an ear full- sometimes more than they want- I have even learned to let someone get a word in edge wise. (Ha! Ha!) I am even learning to be a good listener too. (I sometimes have to remind myself communication is a two way street) Anyway what is this all about…it is about what everyone brings to the table. I am good at talking and letting people know I am thinking of them, I am even good at knowing when someone needs a good uplift, a kind word, a card, or a thoughtful reminder that they are not alone. (When I was youth I have many a friend – one in general- who got this a lot and I know now there is a time a place and you can go overboard) Aside from that, that is my gift- on the other hand everyone else has other gifts that they can share. I have friends who I watch and learn from- the way they treat people, the way they organize their time, the way the prioritize their lives, the way the study good books- religious or otherwise, how creative they are, how they discipline their children, the fact they can listen- when I am the one doing all the talking, their gardening skills, how they treat education, what they do to keep themselves in control of their lives, their baking skills, the way they are able to stretch themselves beyond their known limits only to come out ahead of what they ever thought possible. These are just a few of the many talents each of my friends’ have. I am the friend and person I am because of them. Each one of my friends makes me a better person. Friends throughout my life have contributed many of my great learning experiences in life. Some of those experiences have come directly because of what a friend has brought to my attention or through self evaluation through a friends’ life. I am ever so grateful for every person who I can call a friend or have called a friend because it is because of their influences in my life that I am who I am. At this time in my life being surrounded by my children 24 hours a day I know that I would not survive without knowing I have friends who support me, strengthen me and lift me on to higher ground. I pay tribute to my friends past, present and future and thank them for the gifts they have and continue to share with me. Just knowing they are there for me if ever I need them gives me great peace of mind. I do have friends who have been with me for many, many years and have stuck by my side through thick and thin and I want them to know (they know who they are) that my love continues to grow for them- even if we aren’t around each other as often- that I am blessed by what they have taught me through their examples throughout the years. And those friends who I have just met within the few years I am so grateful for what you bring to my life at this time- I could not be as successful as I am without your support and guidance. I have said often that my friends (family included) are on the top of my most important things and this is why I will do whatever I can to make sure they know of their significance in my life. I love each and every one of you! Your lifelong friend…

7 loves!

2008-06-01T22:01:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by my friend Erika! This made me think and maybe I took it a little more seriously than I should but I needed to remind myself of what I have and who I am.

7 things!

I love me! I know I said it. I am selfish and I want everyone to do things for me. I want to tell everyone (mostly my kids and husband) to do something and have them do it because I told them to do it. I want, I want, I want! However, while that is the truth I am very selfish deep down I also know that true happiness comes from loving others which leads me into my next love…

I love my husband…he teaches me how to be a better me. * is that selfish? Nah! Love is putting someone else’s wants and needs before yours, which is probably why I didn’t complain when he bought the new Mariokart- because it’s definitely not for me but it made him happy and someone else’s happiness always brings me happiness. Although, I do need to remember that next time I see that happiness to let him really enjoy it before I use it as barter for getting what I want. I also love him for all he does for me. I love him for the patience he has for me. I don’t show my appreciation as often as I should, in fact I often allow myself to get caught up in all the things he doesn’t do but really, truly he does more for me than not. He does do the dishes… he does take out the garbage…he does pick things up last minute at the store on his way home from work when he would rather be coming home…he does buy me my wardrobe (yes, I would not have any clothes if he did not shop because I hate spending $$ on clothes…he does not get upset at me even when I know he wreathing inside and wants to tell me to—well, you know…he does allow for the occasional evening out with friends for movies, talking, dinner or whatever…I also love my kids which I could not have done without him. My kids are my life- literally- and when I look at them I love my husband even more because they are part of him and together we can make a difference in their lives and last but not least he does enjoy being around family for extended periods of time, which leads me to my other love…

My mom, dad, brothers and sisters—I just spent the entire week with each of them and their children and while I am exhausted, I am filled with absolute love, respect, awe, joy and oh so much more for each of them and their spouses. I learn from them by watching them, listening to them, talking with them and just being around them. I see what I can improve in my life and how I can be a better sibling, daughter, wife, mother and friend, which leads to my next love…

My friends. What would I do without my friends? Yes, my family are my friends but I am talking about those outside my family. The people who give me yet another perspective on “me.” Those who strengthen me, listen to me, talk with me, and want to be around me not because they are family and have to but because they want too. Each friend teaches me something new about myself that I couldn’t learn without them. Really my friends are my family! Which in a round about way leads me to my next love…

The gospel of Jesus Christ…more specifically my Savior. His example, His teachings, His love…it is what keeps me going when I don’t want to go anymore. Knowing that he was sent by my Heavenly Father to be an advocate for me and that he chose to sacrifice himself for not only me but every person who lives in this world, who ever has lived and who ever will live—gives me a kind of peace that I can’t get from anywhere else. While I know this knowledge is not tangible- it is very real! My life would not and could not be what it is without this knowledge. Which leads to my other love…

Knowledge! Now I am not the kind of person who wants to know how things work like computers, or science or math but I love learning new things. I love being in school. I love studying the scriptures. I love having intellectual conversations that keep my mind open to new ideas and new thoughts. I am way more philosophical than logical but I love when someone or something can teach me something new. I don’t like learning technical things from books – I like to see things in action. I love learning about people, about history, about philosophy-- which leads me to my final love.

Diversity- I love that every one is different, has different backgrounds, different thoughts, different personalities, different experiences. I love that while I am different that people can love me for those differences and not judge me if I don’t agree with them. I love that I can learn from others differences and be better for having known them. I love that differences are strengths that either solidify my convictions or allow me to change. We are all free to choose the path we are going to take however the diversity in us means that while I am may not agree with the path others take they have the right to choose and because of that we are all diverse and yet in that diversity I am strengthened. I am ME- but I can always improve ME which brings me full circle.. I am selfish but I could not be happy if it wasn’t for someone else helping ME to grow into something more than I can even imagine.

*I tag melain, rebecca k, and rebecca d.

Motherhood

2008-05-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

What can i say! Being a mom is hard. Hard doesn't even get you started. I don't even see the light at the end of the tunnel (maybe little glimpses here and there). I remember being a child and thinking..."When I grow up I want to be a mother-and have a family." Helloooo-I can't believe my mom didn't discourage the thought. The only thing that keeps me going is knowing my mom is sane and she is one of my best friends. In fact there are several "moms" in my life that I know have done what I am doing now and they are happy- that means there is a light somewhere- that the glimpses are not hallucinations they are really there. I know this sounds like complaining again but come on...what sane person doesn't have thoughts of despair and since I have found writing to be therapeutic I must put it down on paper just so I have something to look back on and see that while things might be difficult-its all worth it. I can't say, with all honesty, that I was one of the easiest kids to raise and the fact that I was oldest of five kids- well that alone should be enough to get my mom voted "Mother of the Year." For her, and I am sure many other moms out there, being a mom was the most thankless job- if you are looking for immediate gratitude, which really is what the world tells us we deserve. When really when it comes down to it being thankful, truly thankful, isn't something that comes immediately- it only comes after a lot of hard work. And this world wants you to think that everything should be easy. I remember as a kid, all meals had to be made in the oven, over the stove or on a campfire...there was no such thing as microwaves. And do you remember the term, "made from scratch?" I don't know that my kids understand the concept...they think everything comes from a box. I also remember cloth diapers--none of my siblings had disposables and I had to help rinse every diaper out in the toilet before putting it in the wash. Now i cringe when my youngest poops his pants and i have to clean it up- the same way my mom had to clean us all up. Now i only have little kids, i haven't experienced teenagedom- unless of course seeing my 5 year old have a mental breakdown the other day because she didn't have anything to wear due to Grandma going through all her clothes to rid her of the ones that weren't "girly" enough. She spent 15 minutes crying and yelling at me, telling me it was my job to have made sure Grandma didn't get rid of her clothes. I mean come on, she is 5--I don't remember doing that until I was at least 13. Anyway, my point is being a mother is not about instant gratitude and its not about finding the easy way out. Its about working hard so that when the light begins to shine brighter and brighter you are even more grateful for what has been accomplished. Its about finding joy in the little things like when Nicholas says my name is "bu-y boy or li'l boy or pickel nickel" or when Natalee says things like "you know what mom? I love you" or when Alex comes over and curls up under my armpit and says nothing. Its about when I am mad at something (probably nothing) and talking very loudly (ok so we all know I am yelling) and Nicholas says "stop Lili , you hur-ing my ears." Or when Natalee says "I can't wait til I'm grown up like you so I can wear your clothes" ( We all know that is never going to happen- what teenager wants to wear their mothers clothes) or when Alex asks if we can all go down and eat dinner and watch a movie as a family. These are all moments where I can see a glimmer of the light in the dark. Now don't get me wrong the darkness isn't so dark i can't see and so I make my way through it with the help of family and friends who hold their lights a little bit higher so i can see all the blessings i am surrounded by. I am so grateful for the "moms" and future mom's who let me walk along side of them which makes the long and winding road a little more bearable. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have children that hold their little lights in the darkness so i can see the rocks along the path and be able to step over them with a little more ease. Being mom has made me a better woman, it is has given me something that I can never get alone- It has taught me and continues to teach me that while I am important, I am not the most important! There are things and people greater than myself and i can learn from it all. I am ME- but every day i am a better version of ME! Motherhood is what makes that possible!

* you can find the scrapbook kit at this site - It called the Penelope Mega Kit

DayDreaming!

2008-05-21T15:54:00.001-07:00

Ok so I started writing my thoughts and this is what I came up with-- It's a bit long but it's my thoughts! Enjoy!

My List

I remember as a teenager dreaming of what it would be like when I got married. Maybe I am an oddball but that one thought alone occupied many of my daydreams. Of course along with those day dreams comes “the list”; the qualities I am looking for in a spouse. Growing up in a household centered on Jesus Christ and his restored gospel made the first three characteristics very easy. He must be a member of our church, he must be living worthy of the promises he made at baptism and he must be able to take me to the temple. Those qualities alone were all encompassing of my dream prince. Marriage would be “happily ever after” if he lived up to those things. The rest of the list contained traits such as a sense of humor, athletic, good with kids, good communicator, so on and so forth. What parents and leaders fail to say is these qualities only get you started. They don’t tell you that ten years into marriage you have to remember that you got what you asked for even if it is not what you thought it would be, they don’t tell your husband is not you and while he may have every one of those qualities they are not what you ever imagined. Case and point, I asked for someone who was athletic. In my mind I was imagining watching him play basketball or baseball on a team, cheering for my well built, main squeeze ,which is what it was when we were dating, however ten years later the athleticism is an occasional pickup game at the church that I have to shove him out the door for so he won’t play on the computer or want to watch whatever game it is on television that night and interrupt my line up of shows for the evening. The athleticism that I so wanted now comes in the form of fall football games, spring training and a lengthy season of baseball, and keeping up on the stats of every player from every team so he can have a detailed conversation with the guys about what team has a better chance of making it to the play offs that season. Oh, and the sense of humor. I imagined sitting around telling embarrassing stories growing up, watching a good comedy, and frequently finding things about life in general to laugh about in our “happily ever after kingdom.” Well they don’t tell you that the male species finds burping and farting funny to the point of teaching it to your children so they can do it in public and then laugh about it this quality alone leads to him being a big hit with the kids so there is another trait that I can mark off on my checklist the only thing is the don’t tell you he is a kid himself, which is why he is so good with the kids. Yes, my husband is a member of the church, he had kept his covenants at baptism and was able to take me to the temple and yes, that one fact alone makes our marriage a little easier nevertheless they don’t tell you that men don’t prepare lessons when they are suppose to teach for primary, priesthood or Sunday school- they just wing it. They do say prayers and read scriptures but doing it together is just too much for them to suggest. Oh and family home evenings- what’s that? Unless, of course there’s dessert, I know, I know I sound like I am complaining but really this is all leading up to a life lesson because while those qualities on my list were not exactly what I expected, I can only imagine how way off his list of qualities were for me. Okay, we already know his top three qualities, good looking, good mother, oh and she needs to be able to marry in the temple. First off, when we got married I have to admit I was in the prime of my life- I looked good- well at least better than I did for the next 10 years. I am sure I had my flaws- I could point them out to the detail but he was happy. However, I am sure he wasn’t prepared for the weight gain, the Saturday morning lounging around in my flannel pajamas, the ugly binging on oreos and ice cream with no care of what I was doing to my body, and the days I rolled out of bed at noon and wasn’t concerned with what I looked like. He especially could not have been prepared for what it was like when children came along. He had no clue that being a mom to children meant that I became his mom too. When are you going to be home, where are you going, are you eating those cookies before dinner, please do those dishes, when was the last time you cleaned your room? Oh, the list goes on and on. Of course, I could go through the temple with him but that was the easy part- now it was reminding him that he made that choice and he can’t take it back. My poor husband! I guess what I am getting at lists have their place but don’t expect them to be exactly what you ask for. Daydreaming is just what it entails, a dream- it won’t happen right away but if you keep on enduring you might have a chance in the eternities. Over the years and continuing on in the years to come I just remind myself that marriage is about giving. I need to give and give and give- without expecting anything in return. That’s a hard thing to do because the world wants to teach us that giving is only about receiving something in return. Now granted, I receive things but the trick is to realize it may not be what I expected but it is always something I needed. So now my list changes and 10 years from now I reserve the right to made more changes but here is my list now. Of course at the top of my list: that I can remain worthy to take my husband to the temple, that I can have a sense of humor-even when it is not necessarily appropriate, that I can become the kind of athletic my husband needs me to be, that I can be supportive of my husband so he can be a worthy priesthood holder, and that I can take care of myself physically, emotionally, and spiritually so that my husband can know I care about myself and about him. Funny thing is that when I do these things not only does he get his list fulfilled but I benefit from it too. It’s amazing how giving leads to bigger and better things than you can imagine. However I am not clueless, I am still a woman and I will still dream about my selfish list, a husband who cleans (other than the dishes) without having to ask. Someone who shoves me out the door to go out with girlfriends, see a movie, to go shopping without me having to ask for permission or feel like I am putting him out. Someone who actually talks instead of listens and at the same time can open up to me about his deepest, innermost thoughts---oh the list goes on but I can’t take away from the giving so I will end my daydream here and come back to reality. I love my husband, he loves me, we love our children, yessirree, they love us and so you see, we are a happy family.

Housecleaning

2008-05-21T07:57:00.000-07:00

Who actually like cleaning houses. I know there are people out there that like the house clean but do you actually like cleaning the house? This is my big beef lately. I clean and clean and clean, yet it remains dirty. I could spend all day doing laundry, vacuuming, mopping, dishes, organizing, tidying and still that evening it's a mess. Now sure i have some responsibility in that I haven't truly taught my children correct cleaning principles however, I can handle telling them to clean this and that it is the big child that I honestly do not feel gets how frustrating uncleanliness is to me. He plays so great with my little children and they love him to death, he will even play with me every now and then but (other than the dishes) to get him to keep thing tidy while I am gone or for that matter- just in the other room- well it's like, in his case, having to go in and get blood drawn. I so want for someone else to take over the cleaning duties- to actually feel like they care about what the house looks like even when no one is coming over to visit. I want someday to come home after being out and find the house in ship shape order and not even having asked it to be done. I mean geez it doesn't get done even when i ask so to get it done when I don't ask would be twice the pleasure. Talk about a way to get me "in the mood"! Did I ever think life would get to this point in life--my thoughts as a youth of being a wife and mother never resulted in this. I don't complain-ok maybe I do a little- but I wouldn't give it up because despite this I love my life. Everyone has things they would like to be different and I am no different but I do have 3- oh wait make that 4 children who love me tremendously-even if i do have a "moment (s)" every now and then. I know I sometimes question the love but deep down i know its there I just need to figure out how they are showing it since it is so different from how I show my love. I mean it must be love for any of them, especially my husband, to still want to be with me despite all the things I do wrong and say wrong. I am not perfect and honestly I shouldn't expect everyone around me to be perfect. Hey- whoever said writing is therapy knew what they were talking about. Blogging can be a blessing! Hope you got as much out of this as I did.

Mommy time!

2008-05-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

I am the worst at making time to do things with my kids. There are always other things to do like the dishes, the garden, my blogging, scrapbooking, and the list goes on. However I have been trying to take time for the little things. My kids are the most important thing to me yet I seem to put them last on the list- behind myself. So on this day i threw in the towel and did what they wanted and I am so glad that I did. It's a great memory and they are still talking about it - over a week later. I love my kids and I love that David got home in time to capture this moment on film.

Remember the days!!

2008-05-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

We were at some friends playing games and the kids were enjoying the outdoors. it was cold and a bit wet but it didn't keep them from finding something fun to do. I had to capture it on video!

Seattle Symphony

2008-05-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

I have been horrible at blogging lately. I have a ton of pictures to share even some videos but I can't seem to find the time to get them all scrapped! I am trying to go to bed earlier and get up earlier but it will be a long process. Anyway- Needless t say we have actually been doing things- events I want to share and this is one of them- The Seattle Symphony!! David and I finally got to go--It was my Valentine's Day present to David. It was nice to drop the kids off at Gma and Gpa's- go to dinner and get some quality time together. It was even better to listen to the wonderful live music of "Hollywood Romance." It's amazing how music effects our memories- to sit back and replay the movie in your mind- and the events that surround the times you watched it; to imagine yourself as the romance that is being played out. It was fabulous and we both just loved being there. We would go again and again. Not only that but I was sporting a new look- just the day before I cut my hair again and colored it- back to my natural hair color. It was strange to look in the mirror and have to take a second look to convince myself it was really me but I love it. I needed something new and this just represents who I am now...as i continue to progress and discover "me" I am sure it will change again.

I am the one and only!

2008-05-11T21:53:00.001-07:00

HowManyOfMe.com

There is
1
person with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Food, Food, Food!

2008-05-07T12:19:00.000-07:00

why does everything have to taste so good. The other day David purchased some mint oreos- serving size 2 cookies! Who eats only 2 oreos- I proceeded to eat 8 (only because that is all that was left). Right before doing so I had reminded David about a little diddy by our favorite comedian Brian Regan. I found this on "youtube" and had to share it. I wish I could eat whatever, whenever, and however much I wanted but my psychii won't allow me to get back to where I was a year ago. So, I drool, binge, starve and obsess about what I can and can't eat. It's most definitely a mental issue- some days are better than others but hey food is so good! Especially shrimp with garlic butter sauce, cheese and crackers, chips and dip, cinnamon rolls, fresh baked cookies and tall glass of milk! I bet you will all be running to the kitchen after reading this and will thank me later.

*click on "this on 'youtube'" to see Brian Regan's stand up- He is so funny!

Hannah Banana

2008-04-29T17:23:00.000-07:00

My brother and his wife live so far from us and they had a beautiful little girl, Hannah, who we do not get to watch grow up on a day to day basis. He is really good at using Photoshop and sent me these pictures of my niece today. It is so fun to see my brothers and sisters starting their own families. It is so fun to post pictures of each of them growing up and becoming little people. Enjoy the photos of my niece, Hannah Banana.

Help a friend!

2008-04-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

I have a long time friend who is in a peculiar situation and I told him I would share his website on my blog in hopes he might find others who would help him out. Please go here to read his story and decide for yourself. I am always willing to help others the best I can and I am sure he would appreciate your help and if you'd like to post his link...the more the merrier.

My little nephew!

2008-04-22T16:17:00.000-07:00

I got to go and see my little nephew, Andrew Joseph (Andy) last night. I had to wait until after the kids were in bed and David was home because no children are allowed to be around him until 2 weeks after his regular due date. He is beautiful (or should I say handsome). It's hard to believe my kids were small like that (well maybe not that small). I was even excited to change his diaper- what was I thinking? His eyes were open and looking all around until he was ready to go to sleep again, and even then he fell asleep in my arms. Looove it!!! *But definitely not enough to have another one- I'll let my siblings do the honor in that area. Here are a few highlights.

*paper/embellishments credited to Heather Roselli - you can find it on this site.

The Tooth Fairy

2008-04-22T16:04:00.000-07:00

Well here it is another phase of having children- the tooth fairy. He was so excited and wanted to look at his tooth and never put it in a safe place so now it is lost- probably thrown in the garbage--Bummer!!! He wrote a letter to the tooth fairy to explain the circumstances. Hopefully, she (or he) will come anyway. I think she probably won't pay the normal amount. :O

*paper is a free download called "moody blues" at this site.

My new haircut

2008-04-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

Well I got a haircut...I have been wanting to do something different with my hair and when you have long hair there is not too much you can do with it - so I cut it! Its not really short but it's short for me. My wonderful hairdresser and dear friend April did it for me. I have actually decided to let my natural color grow out to make my hair a bit more healthy so we are going to put in darker highlights in the next little bit and I actually think I might have it layered a little more. So anyway here is a picture of me with my new haircut. I think it is a little ridiculous I have to take my own pictures but hey at least I have it captured on film.

Andrew Joseph Brown

2008-04-18T09:42:00.001-07:00

Gretchen had a beautiful baby boy born:
April 17, 2008 @ 12:24 am.
6 lbs 2 oz - 19.5 inches long

Her water broke the previous morning and there was just no stopping him. He was ready to enter the world. He is actually 5 weeks premature. But yikes! Just as big as any of my kids. A head full of black hair and beautiful skin. I was actually pretty honored to be there during the birth- I got to be the official photographer. Don't worry I stayed away from the graphic stuff. But I must say the room was full of emotion and I found myself holding back the tears. My little sister was having a baby and to see her push so hard to bring this little boy into their family was so heartwarming. Its so hard to believe she and Joe are parents- I still think of them as teenagers dating in high school. I found myself reflecting on those days and realizing just how much they have grown in the 8 years they have been together. They are going to make wonderful parents. They have so much love to give and so much to teach "our little Andy". Congratulation to them - and Much love!!

Trip to Walla Walla

2008-04-18T09:40:00.001-07:00

Where is Walla Walla?

2008-04-17T19:43:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went to visit our friends the Marley's in Walla Walla, Washington. We had a fantastic time and the weather - well you can't get much better this time of year. The kids had a blast hanging out, going to the park, watching baseball, water balloons, and just being with each other. The adults had just as much fun catching up, having intellectual conversation and knowing the kids were, for the most part, entertained. The food was fantastic! Chicken Shish kabobs the first night and BBQ Ribs the next. Who can forget the absolutely fabulous brownie delight we had for dessert. We were pampered this weekend and reminded again just how precious friendships are and how important it is to stay in touch- even when the distance seems like so far away. For some reason I have been unable to upload photos so i will post a slideshow and you can see all the fun we had this weekend.

What we did with Bonnie and Rick

2008-04-17T19:34:00.000-07:00

So as you can see the slideshow below is of some captured memories from Bonnie and Rick's visit. We had some great fun. Alex was so excited they would be here to come see him practice for baseball season. Rick got here just in time to see him catch a few grounders and Nicholas had fun playing with him at the park. That evening David and Rick, along with our friend Dave Dixon, headed over to Priesthood Session (LDS General Conference for the men) while Bonnie and I, along with Erika Dixon, picked up some pizza and went to hang out with Gretchen for the evening. We had a nice time visiting and keeping Gretchen company and came home to find the men watching Nacho Libre. It was a fun evening! The next day we watched conference in the morning and afternoon and then I packed up the fixing for Egg, Bacon and Tomato Sandwiches and we ate dinner and Gretchen's. Elsa made a great cake to celebrate the April birthday's (Nicholas, Bonnie and Christian). Monday evening David and i went to dinner with Bonnie and Rick (Alex got to come too! For his first "adult" dinner. He behaved well and even took a few of our pictures. It was such a pleasant visit and worth it since Rick was offered the job and they will be moving up here in the next couple months. Yippee!!! We love you bonnie and rick!!!

Bonnie and Rick visit

2008-04-17T19:31:00.001-07:00

Reflections

2008-04-15T08:20:00.000-07:00

I just saw the most beautiful video of the life of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Reflections of Christ. It is worth every second of the 5 minutes it takes to watch it. I feel I must share it with my blogger friends and family because it truly represents the testimony I have of who Jesus Christ is and the role he plays in my life. I don't speak often of my thoughts on our Savior because in this world we must constantly fear offending someone. However, those who know me, know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is everything to me. Jesus Christ is my savior. He came to this earth to bring us our Heavenly Father's Plan of Salvation. He suffered in agony for the sins of every person who has lived, lives now, or will live. In this one act alone he made it possible for us to repent and have the opportunity to live with our Heavenly Father again, he over came spiritual death. When he gave up his life on the cross and was resurrected 3 days later, he overcame physical death so that we all could be resurrected and have perfected bodies in the eternities. It is through his example we can become like him, if we so choose. Living the gospel of Jesus Christ is work, it is daily recognition that I have so much to learn and to grow but more than that it is the joy that comes from knowing that it is possible to overcome those weaknesses. It is the blessings that fall all around me to remind me that He knows me, He loves me, He wants me to succeed. In spite of all that is happening in this world I know that I can make a difference in the lives that surround me. I can serve others and love others. I can share the joy I have and bring a bit of peace to those who are experiencing difficult times. This is me! This is what drives me. This is what I want my children to know for themselves through my example.
*I'm trying to be like Jesus
I'm following in his ways
I'm trying to love like he did
In all that I do and say.
At times I am tempted to make a wrong choice
But I try to listen as the still small voice whispers
Love one another as Jesus love you
Try to show kindness in all that you do
Be Gentle and loving in deed and in thought
for these are the things Jesus Taught.

* when you follow this link to listen to the song in its full glory click on the option words and music under recorded music and then hit play.
**the picture of Christ is done by Simon Dewey and can be found at this site.

My baby had a birthday

2008-04-09T23:03:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it my little boy is 3 years old. He is my most energetic, my most aggressive, my most fun loving child. Each of them have their endearing traits and Nicholas' is playful and full of energy. He has a twinkles to his eyes that catch you off guard and make you want to play with him. When he asks "one more time" you can't help but say yes. We still ask him how old he is and he holds up two fingers and says "two" and we remind him that he is 3 now. Since he is my last i think i enjoy his birthdays because i won't celebrate another 3rd birthday. i am definitely ok with that but it makes me reflect a little more. I hope you like the pictures.

* the paper/embellishments can be found at this site, called "Urban Kiwi"

Point Defiance Zoo

2008-04-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

I did it again! I went out of my way to do something other than stay around the house during breaks from school. It did help that the weather was absolutely spectacular. So- we called a few friends and invited them to the zoo. It was a great day for it and the kids loved picnicking in the park with their friends. We took a few pictures while we were there so our friends and family can keep up with the happenings in the grover household. I hope you enjoy the pictures as much as we enjoyed the zoo.

*paper/embellishments are free downloads found at this site, called "vintage florals"

Gretchen on bedrest

2008-04-01T15:01:00.000-07:00

Well-My little sister is due with her first child- a little boy- at the end of May. Last week I received a call from her telling me she was in the hospital in pre-term labor. YIKES!! How scary- here I was in the midst of planning a baby shower for before the little one is to arrive and now it looks like it will be after he arrives. Anyway- i wanted to go see her in the hospital but she said they would be letting her go home on strict bed rest so instead we headed over the next day. What a strange day too! Here we are at the end of March and we were watching the snow fall for hours. Alex was at school but Natalee and Nicholas were there to make Aunt Gretchen feel loved! Here are a few of the pictures we took.

Murder Mystery Party

2008-04-01T14:32:00.000-07:00

The Baxter's invited us over for an evening of mystery dinner party! We had a great time! David and I did our best to dress the part and took some pictures of ourselves trying to be serious and act our part. I thought i would scrap those pictures of course pictures were taken at the party and when I get those I will share with you who actually did the killing until then...do we really look like we could kill someone?

*paper/embellishments called "dinner party" are available at this site.

More Easter Pics

2008-03-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

I was up quite late last night working on my scrapping pages for Easter. I had fun and I am enjoying learning all the new things I can do with scrapbooking. Here are my creations. First we start with the Lee Family Celebration and then go on to the Grover Family.

*paper/embellishments found at this site.

Decisions! Decisions!

2008-03-26T19:30:00.000-07:00

I love going to school at the University of Washington! I love everything about it. I love that I am learning new things. I love that I get to be around adults who are in school because they want to be. I love that we have stimulating conversations that allow me to think outside of the box. I love the drive there that gives me 2 complete hours (there and back) to myself. I can listen to books on tape, my own music, have quiet, talk on the phone- the time is my own. I love that taking classes keeps me moving forward in a direction of my own. So, with that being said a decision has been on my horizon for- well longer than I want to admit. I have been taking classes every quarter for 5 quarters now and it has been spectacular. However, starting at the beginning of last quarter, a thought kept occuring to me- can I do school and keep my kids my priority. Granted, i am an important person in that equation and school definitely makes me a better person and individual but my kids are first at this point in my life. Anyway, this quarter ended with a 3.7 on my final paper-which is incredible- and i found myself putting off registering for the next quarter- it is an expense that is not easy to put out and since I am not even considered part-time i can't get any loans, financial aid, scholarships, grants (I think you get the point). I was speaking with David and he is incredibly supportive of me going to school but his concerns financially speaking were voiced- I had been in denial of them. We have both been praying about it but I know the decision is ultimately mine. (He would never take that away from me and would always find a way to make it work.) This was a few weeks ago and I have been agonizing over what to do. I have been on my knees in prayer and truly have been pondering all the reasons for and against. There are so many good reasons for both. However, my ultimate decision has come about in a quiet manner over the last few days. Decisions are always difficult for me- but there have been very few excruciatingly difficult ones that I can think of. This was one of them and looking back it is difficult because its an answer that I have known but didn't want to admit. In fact, thinking about it brings tears to my eyes and makes my heart heavy, yet in the midst of it- I feel at peace knowing it is the right decision. I must take a year or two off, at least until Nicholas is in school, so that I can continue to make my family and children, my priority. Next year Nicholas will be the only child home and i need to make sure I put him first. This is such a crucial age for each of my kids and they need to know that nothing comes between me and my relationship with them. I know the time for school will come again--soon--when I can go to school full time and graduate at the same time I would be if i continued taking one class at a time. I know this decision will bless the life of my family and more importantly, ME! It is hard moving forward in faith, not knowing how it will all turn out but knowing that it will! I will however take this time to read some of the books that are assigned in the upcoming classes i will take. That will help me to that much more ahead when i start back. So while this has been a difficult decision I know it is the correct one- at this time. I am so thankful for the knowledge i have of having a Father in Heaven who loves me, knows me as an individual and wants the best for me. That through prayer I can recieve personal revelation from Him that blesses my life and life of my family.

Easter Sunday- All dressed up!

2008-03-24T22:05:00.001-07:00

Well here they are! My three beautiful children. All dressed up for the Easter festivities. Typically, I would have bought them new clothes and our pictures would have been taken professionally, but I decided this year to let them be who they are. We take pictures around Easter every year because that is when each of them have or will turn the next year. Alex (7), Natalee (5), and Nicholas (3-on April 3). I just think each of them are so unique, loveable, precious, wonderful, and everything in between- They make me a better person, they love me unconditionally (unless they don't get what they want), they are forgiving- I lose myself in them. I am so thankful to have each of them. I am so thankful for the life they give me. I may be exhausted but I am joyfully exhausted in all that I do and all that they do for me.
*paper/embellishments found at this site.

Easter Sunday

2008-03-24T10:12:00.000-07:00

I made a point this year to really make sure the kids understand why it is we celebrate Easter. It's not about the Easter Bunny but that its the beginning of new life. Eggs represent the new life that Christ brought about through his infinite atonement and resurrection. He overcame spiritual death due to sin and physical death due to our bodies being immortal. The Savior made it possible so that each and every one, who has ever lived, who lives, who will ever live on this earth will be able to return to live with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, as eternal families. We are all one big eternal family, brothers and sisters-Children of our Heavenly Father. Of course, it is up to each and every one to make that choice for themselves. This is why I teach my children so when the time comes they will have the knowledge they need to make an informed choice. I hope and pray that through my example they will come to know the truth for themselves. Anyway- this video is the Easter Festivities. It was a nice day. Our friends, The Baxter's, were able to join us which made it even more fun. Enjoy!

Gratitude

2008-03-22T15:10:00.000-07:00

Well I always commenting on how well some people tell of funny things their kids have said and how I have such a difficult time doing that. So, as I sit here today I am here with a purpose- to let you know what a greatful child I have.
So, I am not the best of housekeepers. I try! In fact I am really getting into the groove of things, organizing, purging- I even went through all the kids clothes, books, and closets this week; getting rid of all those items they don't even know they have--Anyway, one of things I really hate to do is vacuum the stairs. Don't ask me why- it is just so -- oh I don't even have the word to describe it. I will vacuum the upstairs, downstairs, all the kids rooms and just leave the stairs. Well today i am in the cleaning mode-not just surface but ---even the stairs! I was in the middle of doing this - feeling pretty good about it-figuring no one even notices it is a mess or that it even got done-when Natalee- bless her heart- stops me and says "Thank you". I looked at her with confusion and asked "What for?" and she responds, "for cleaning the stairs, they were really dirty." Leave it to a child to notice how dirty it was and then thank me for cleaning it up- as if saying, "it's about time!"

Nicholas Zonked!

2008-03-17T09:32:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help but share this priceless photo of our "little boy"! He is our outdoor kid. Rain or shine and he wants to be outside- of course he wants you to be with him. This happens to be a day the sun was shining, it was still a bit cold-Dad had been out pushing him on the swing and needed to come in for a minute. Nicholas wanted to wait in the swing- literally it was only 5 minutes-maybe less- and when David went back out he was asleep in the swing. Too cute!

Olympia Children's Museum

2008-03-17T09:25:00.000-07:00

I did it! I feel like a good mom! The kids had a day off and I mustered up all my energy to do something out of the ordinary- I took the kids to the children's museum. I must admit I am a home body- I like familiar things and I have never been to the Olympia children's museum so the thought of driving somewhere new and taking all 3 kids makes me rather ill--it zaps all the energy from my soul- but I needed to do it. While the kids were on President's week- i thought that taking the kids to Grandma and Grandpa's to play outside and bringing a friend with them, setting up playdates, having a bonfire and such was a great way to spend their days off- but after reading all my friend's blogs and seeing the things they did with their kids- I felt that my kids got jipped! So I vowed on their next day off i would take them somewhere they would like- Here are some pictures!