A Spot of Sun

Ballroom

2012-02-05T15:18:00.000-08:00

Dawn and Rachel have been busy Tango-ing, Cha Cha-ing, Foxtrot-ing and Merangue-ing. And they've been loving it! They danced in their first ballroom competition a few weeks ago. They were fabulous! And I felt so silly, and therefore didn't tell them, but I was so nervous. I couldn't sleep the night before, I woke up early with a stomach ache. I even forgot to eat breakfast. I think it was a little too familiar a feeling dredged up from my long lost youth! But all was well. They danced great and were so darling.

Scott rocked the (school) house

2011-06-03T22:17:00.000-07:00

Scott had such a great year. He loved his teacher who was all about music. They made a cd and this track was one of Scott's finest! He does the speaking at the beginning and ends it with a sweet solo. Enjoy!

Yes, It Would!

2011-05-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

My pretty sink stayed clean all week, even when I left for the weekend to visit my sweet mother, all clean! Sunday night after a long car ride, a get-together at my house, unpacking and tired kids and mommy and sick daddy, I still conquered the sink.

Having a clean kitchen all day just made everything so much easier, well, at least the food things. Clean up was easier at night for the kids. Having room to work was so much nicer. All things considered, I will definitely keep it up. Maybe not quite so dedicated, but I'll try.

Would it make a difference

2011-05-02T13:27:00.000-07:00

if I cleaned my sink after every single meal? After one week, we'll see...

Live or Blog? Plus a really big house!

2011-03-18T12:26:00.000-07:00

Seems I can't do both! The last month or two have been crazy. I haven't really had any desire to blog, just guilt! But I do again, not sure what changed. It may be the sunshine and arrival of spring. I've popped out of my winter malaise like my crocuses and daffodils have popped out of their winter bulbs!

Last month Matt and I escaped to St. George for a little sunshine and quiet (only taking the 7 month old qualifies as quiet for parents of 6 kids, I'll tell you!) What we didn't get was much sun and warmth, it snowed! We did have a wonderful time. Thank you to the super Grandparents who made it all possible!

We drove into Kolob Canyon of Zion National Park. It was probably our sunniest day (the drive down).

We always check out the home show while we are there. This time we saw more houses than usual because of the overall stormy weather which made hiking less than ideal. In a questionable move, we decided to see the biggest house first. It was a mere 10,764 square feet with four master suites (sweets!). They each had these funky bathrooms.

But the true master had a shower with the coolest glass surround.

The first thing you saw was this fabulous garage, but admittedly it wasn't the prettiest approach.
You walked into the courtyard where there was a fabulous seating area with fireplace
and fountain. We both loved this and want to make a smaller version for our back patio. Wouldn't it be perfect? No pool for little ones to drown in, very natural with real rock and a nice splashing.

The backyard wasn't hurting in the fountain area either. This was the coolest! Here it is in daylight.

And here it is at dusk!

Even with the four master suites, there was plenty of room for a huge kitchen.

The formal sitting area was flanked by huge stone covered columns.

And the view wasn't too shabby.

It was a beautiful house and so fun to look at. Of course it had a theater room, pool and lots of there pretty stuff, but I had to stop somewhere!

Hope you enjoyed seeing this monster house. I'll show you more beautiful desert houses over the next few days.

Bananas, pancakes and babies

2011-02-10T10:48:00.000-08:00

This morning I fed my 6-month-old sweetheart bananas for the first time while listening to Banana Pancakes by Jack Johnson (I love that song). Summer didn't love the bananas as much.

But being so cute counts for a lot.

Inspiration for Decoration

2011-02-10T09:13:00.000-08:00

Found a new blog, Inspiration for Decoration. It's just like I like it, not much chit chat (which I always read even though I don't have the time, generally to hear someone pontificate over a pretty picture) and lots of pretty pictures.

Today I'm thinking about mudrooms or the lack thereof. I'd love to have this:

But instead I barely have room for this:

But mine isn't nearly as pretty. Darn.

Jimmer and the Co-ed

2011-02-09T14:37:00.000-08:00

I downloaded pictures off my camera today. I hate doing it. I always have a million pictures to take care of before I get to the ones I want. I still had Christmas on there!

Anyway, what I was looking for was the one and only picture I took at the BYU vs. UNLV basketball game where we took our kids and met our cousins last Saturday. What a great game! We are totally Jimmered, especially Scott and Andrew. Okay, and Matt and I as well.

Did you see the awesome Facebook/Daily Universe bru ha ha about Jimmer? It is hilarious.

Let me start by saying I love the Daily Universe, BYU's student paper! More specifically I love the editorials. They are legendary. When I was going to school I remember an epic battle about girls carrying bags where the strap went across the chest (gasp!) and totally accentuated the nearby womanly parts. It was definitely causing immoral thoughts to blossom unchecked in too many male students. It was hilarious!

So this week a co-ed wrote and complained about the Jimmer-worship going on at BYU. But whereas back in the 90's we didn't have Facebook and replies only came out every Tuesday and Thursday, she got hundreds of replies overnight! And they are all so hilarious. Check out the article about it here or here.

Being Sick

2011-02-04T10:11:00.000-08:00

Today I've been thinking about being sick. No, I'm not deciding whether or not to feel yucky, I already do. I've just been pondering health. What a blessing health is.

What a bummer being sick is. It really wipes me out physically as well as emotionally and even spiritually. And it certainly doesn't just have to be me that is sick. Try a child sick with a high (104-106!) fever for 8 days. Being sick really changes the whole game of life. You must act differently, spend your time differently, and really pace yourself differently.

So here is a little blessing (shout up?) for all of you who find yourself or a loved one sick today. I hope you feel better soon!

Southern Living Showcase Home

2011-02-02T09:37:00.000-08:00

Hooked on Houses featured this beautiful home recently.

I love the ceilings, the light colors and pretty windows.

And this kitchen is so beautiful. I love the cabinets, counters and colors! When my kids get out of the drive cars all over the floors, leave lots of spills around, play in the snow period, I want pretty wood floors just like this.

It's About Time for a Pretty Picture

2011-02-02T08:41:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't you say so?

This one reminded me of my sister, Chelse; probably because of the yellow and the frames she used at her wedding reception.

I found this along with so many pretty bedrooms on Shorely Chic .

This one undoubtable belongs in a warm, sunny beach house.

And I would love to have french doors just like this in my bedroom.

Shorely Chic has captured my attention with these beautiful images. I really want to visit this pool! You have to go here to see the rest of this beautiful house!

103, 104, 105, Oh My!

2011-01-28T00:36:00.000-08:00

All week long my sweet daughter has had a very high temperature. The only list I've been keeping this week is when she last had her Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen. She feels awful. 6 days now. I'm hoping this will not stretch into another whole week of missed school. And that is all. I'll see you again soon. I hope.

Sleeping In

2011-01-22T20:17:00.000-08:00

Sleeping in always puts my day off schedule. It almost always causes something to a pain later on.

But it is always worth it :).

One by One

2011-01-21T16:49:00.000-08:00

Today we're having a birthday party for my oldest, Dawn. She turned 11 in December, but, well...you know December. So today we are having a friend party. She's so excited. It's not a huge affair, but it is hers.

Having 6 kids is, well, busy. Really busy. We try to focus on each child, knowing each one has an infinite amount of worth, love and life inside. But as I mention, we're busy. And I know you are busy, too. That's the life we have.

But you know the story about Jesus and blessing the children, the one where he is very tired and his disciples try to give him rest by sending the throng away. (Throng would be a good word for how my family feels at times!). But Jesus welcomes them, beckons them. And then he blesses them one by one.

One by one. Each one individually. So that's what we try to do with our kids. All too often we don't get it done. We try to have one on one "special times" with each child. It varies a lot. So we are working on it. And tonight Dawn gets the attention. It isn't one on one by any means. But it is a special favor just for her, just to help her feel special. To help her know that we value just her, all by herself. Because she is worth it.

Blessings on the (Kiddy) Throne

2011-01-19T20:46:00.000-08:00

I hinted yesterday that we are potty training at our house. Little Charity is learning to be a big girl! Yea! I was so nervous to start, because, I think we can all agree, potty training has to be one of the worst parts of parenting! Okay, I may be overstating that, but you'll understand in just a moment.

Our last child to potty train was a train wreck!! We worked on it for a year. and. a. HALF! I kid you not. We would go for weeks on end with poopy pants every single day. Yucky, really stinky poopy pants. We'd throw up the white flag and go with pull ups for a few weeks. Then we'd repeat the process while trying something different.

Food rewards, toy rewards, wearing no pants at all, being time-out-ed, charts, bribes, maybe a time or two of yelling (yes, I admit I lost it more than I wish I had). We tried everything we could think of or read about or dream up. We prayed, and prayed and cried. Seriously, this was major drama for us. Imagine 18 long months. 78 weeks! 540 days in a row of failure!

Fast forward to our sweet Charity. Last Tuesday her friend at play group had panties on. I thought, "Oh yeah, with the holidays over, I should try that." So we went home and pulled out the big girl panties.

We put them on and a cloud of potty blessings descended upon our tired and very nervous potty training nerves. She is done! She was done in three days! She had 3 accidents the first day, one when I was in the shower, one when I was on the treadmill and one during family prayers (on my lap I might add).

The next day she had an accident when she pooped. But the third day when she figured out how to poop in the potty, she was done. She's had like 2 accidents since then. She doesn't even get me for help. I just hear the flush, and I go help her wash her hands. We've been shopping, to church, to play groups and she's fine!

It is a certified miracle, a blessing from heaven direct to my tired head. Someone is watching out for me. I just might be able to handle six kids after all.

Balance

2011-01-19T07:38:00.000-08:00

For the new year, I'm focusing on balance. It is a tricky walk. With a husband and 6 kids, 7 fish, 1 potty trainee, 80 loads of laundry, 12 full rooms, and so much else I have to carefully decide what to focus my time and energy on.

Last month, it was not this blog! It was having a magical Christmas with my 7 favorite people (plus many more family and friends). But we got it all done. Gifts for each other, for lots of extended family, cards, gifts for neighbors, decorating, baking, projects and lots of fun outings took up every available minute until the 24th (okay, and beyond, like the cards that might have gotten to you before 2011).

But this month, I'm thinking I want to write more down, share more thoughts. So I'm laying all out this month. We'll see how it goes. I have lots to tell you. Like the miracle of my 5th little potty trainee. Oh, the blessings of heaven have been heaped down upon us and her little froggy potty!

So, organize a closet or two with me and love a child or two. I'm getting in better shape, getting my house in shape and trying to get my schedule in shape, but all with balance (ie. sloooowly).

Thanksgiving Point Holiday Lights

2010-12-02T07:59:00.000-08:00

We had our first Christmas outing as a family on Tuesday. Thanksgiving Point's Holiday Lights opened and it was free for members. So we thought we'd check it out. We'd been several years ago and hadn't been that impressed. But we were very happily surprised. We really liked it.

There were so many fun lights, including a reindeer training jump with parachuting deer, toy soldiers shooting pop guns, flipping gingerbread men, ice skaters, and of course Santa waving goodbye!

We liked it so much we went through twice! Of course the lovely price (free!) may have added to our pleasure. The path even ends with a Christ centered lane with words to the song "This is the Season" accompanied by beautiful paintings (from the book of the same name) and a life size nativity.

It was a great start to December. Bring on the holidays!

Hee Haw's Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-06T14:34:00.000-07:00

Do you go to a pumpkin patch in the fall? We like to go to a local farm turned destination pumpkin patch. I like it because it still feels like an old farm, a little dirty, a few old junky pieces of machinery around (a perfect "Mater") and lots of stuff just thrown around.

We rode the animal train.

We rode the trick-or-treat hay ride.

We picked a few sweet pumpkins for our Annual Pumpkin Carving Party. (Check out last year's here.)
We played on the grain sack slide.

And a few of us tried the corn maze, well, we all started, and a few of us (the ones prone to fits of tears, which may or may not include me) went back to the van to eat our spoils.

A Much Needed Date

2010-11-05T08:24:00.000-07:00

Matt and I have resumed our almost-weekly dates. We just get to take a sweet baby with us now. We've been to Thanksgiving Point several times lately. I wanted to share this pretty picture we took on September 17. We were surprised how beautiful it still was.

We also went again the weekend before Halloween and it was gorgeous in fall colors. The trees were bright, the grasses spectacular and everything was perfect!

Summer In Her Mommy's Dress

2010-11-04T08:16:00.000-07:00

All of my girls have worn this sweet, blue dress when they were newborns. I also wore it when I was just a tiny baby. All my girls look so alike, I need to find their pictures and show you. When I get some time...

A Summer Blessing

2010-11-03T13:44:00.000-07:00

We blessed Summer in our church on October 10th. We had a lot of our family in town, and we were so grateful to have them (and missed the ones that couldn't make it).

Summer wore the dress I was blessed in, and my mother was blessed in made by my great-grandmother. She wore a hand-crocheted jacket and booties belonging to my paternal grandma and a sweet flower clip make by my sister. All heirlooms to treasure always.

We had a delicious lunch with contributions by everyone (thank you!). I even managed a little decoration, these buntings I sewed up quickly on the Saturday before. Now they live in Summer's nursery.

Cascade Springs

2010-11-03T13:35:00.000-07:00

One beautiful mountains just a hop, skip and a jump away, we always have to go for a few beautiful fall drives. This year we made it clear to Cascade Springs. I think we got there a week or two early though.

Which is not to say it wasn't beautiful, or that we didn't have fun, or that it wasn't an adventure.

The kids insisted on bringing their hiking backpacks.

They had fun; so did we.

We ended with a little adventure, wherein Daddy saved the day!

Starting school

2010-11-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

My kids are all liking school this year. This was their first day. Dawn is in 5th grade, Rachel in 4th (don't you like how they wanted to match their first day:) and Scott is in 3rd. He has a teacher who plays guitar and sings and moves a lot. Scott loves him! His favorite song so far? I am My Own Grandpa (if you haven't heard it, google it. It's great!)

Andrew also started preschool, though I don't have a picture of him. He is loving it also, learning his letters, and making new friends. We've been on two sweet field trips, one to the fire station where we got to go here...

(The full 200 feet up!)

And one to the pumpkin patch where he and Charity both picked out a sweet pumpkin.

Charity is even going to a (structured) play group once a week.

So, we are busy learning. I know because each night we around the dinner table we've been telling what we learned. This can be enlightening, interesting or funny. I've been learning about 7 wonderful people and how much I love them! And how not to cry each night when I didn't get to the laundry AGAIN! Ahhh!

Girls, and Boys and Baby, Oh my!

2010-11-03T12:55:00.000-07:00

Life with six kids has been, how shall I say this,

kicking my trash!

I have barely been able to survive (along with keeping the other 7 people in my family alive) let alone write about how I was surviving it.

(How's that for keeping it real?)

But today, while my kind friend and neighbor took my two preschoolers to the park and my baby is napping, I decided to take a few minutes to look back at what I've missed telling you all about.

Since it is a lot, I will space them out over several days, so check back!

So here goes...

Suggested Retail Price

2010-10-21T10:50:00.000-07:00

Don't you love that phrase. I've kind of become accostomed to not ever paying it. Most big retailers have frequent (enough) discounts that you can usually get a brake. I almost never buy food at that high price. One item I actually do expect to pay full price is books, especially local market ones (read Mormon). But toys, no.

So guess how I felt when I sent my sweet husband to Shopko for a buy one get one half off deal on Legos and he found a not-so-sweet deal. The Lego set we were looking for was marked at 150% of suggested retail price as listed online! So the 50% off deal was ridiculous! 150% higher than suggested retail price is like robbery! Crazy. Well, that purchase is OFF.

Winner goes to the lowest (convenient) bid, which right now is online. Beware of Shopko you toy buyers. I'm sure not all items are this bad, but you never know!

P.S. Have you started Christmas shopping yet?

A Spot of Sun

2010-10-15T09:17:00.000-07:00

I have wanted a bird bath for years. I finally found this old one that was perfect. I have waited all year for birds to come and enjoy it. I check every morning. Finally towards the end of the summer we caught them in action. They like to land in the flowers (cosmos) and eat the seeds. They make me happy!

Sunday

2010-10-11T21:11:00.000-07:00

A few Sundays ago I snapped these pictures of my sweet kids. Andrew was looking especially dapper in his new jacket, don't you think?

This was the day of our Primary Program. It was wonderful and so sweet. I love Primary songs!

Moving clip art around a word document

2010-10-11T14:44:00.000-07:00

Okay, most of you probably know this, but I didn't and I'm going to share. Occasionally I have a clip art image that won't move where I want it to in Microsoft Word.

This is how to figure it out. Right click on the image so that the black squares appear. Then right click and select the "Format picture" option. Select the "Layout" tab. Select "Square" and then "other". You should then be able to move your pictures where ever you want (and make your Activity Days fliers!).

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and David Archuleta?

2010-10-07T14:09:00.000-07:00

It was announced today. This year's guest artist for the Christmas Concert is going to be David Archuleta. Really? I think that is totally funny. My girls think it is totally awesome.

What do you think?

You can be entered into the drawing for free tickets here starting October 9. Good luck!

Tenderloin, Cranberry and Pear Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

2010-09-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

I saw this recipe on Living Locurto. I just knew you'd all want to make it, so please do. And then bring me some!

Tenderloin, Cranberry and Pear Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
Ingredients

•4 beef tenderloin steaks, cut 3/4 inch thick (approx. 4 oz. each)
•1/2 tsp. coarse grind black pepper
•1 package (5 oz.) mixed baby salad greens
•1 medium red or green pear, cored, cut into 16 wedges
•1/4 cup dried cranberries
•salt
•1/4 cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
•1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Honey Mustard Dressing

•1/2 cup prepared honey mustard
•2-3 Tbsp. water
•1-1/2 tsp. olive oil
•1 tsp. white wine vinegar
•1/4 tsp. coarse grind black pepper
•1/8 tsp. salt
Instructions

Season steaks with 1/2 tsp. pepper. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Place steaks in skillet; cook 7 to 9 minutes for medium rare to medium doneness, turning occasionally.

Meanwhile, whisk Honey Mustard Dressing ingredients in small bowl until well blended. Set aside. Divide greens evenly among 4 plates. Top evenly with pear wedges and dried cranberries.

Carve steaks into thin slices; season with salt as desired. Divide steak slices evenly over salads. Top each salad evenly with dressing, pecans and goat cheese, if desired.

Baby Shower Wreath

2010-09-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

I saw this darling wreath on kojo designs. I thought it was so cute.

But then I started wondering, is it polite to request all guests bring gift cards? What do you think? I generally think that it should always be up to the guest to determine what to bring.

The berry themed party was darling. See it at kojo designs.

Fabulous play kitchen

2010-09-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that this kitchen was once this:

Awesome huh! Found here.

Just last night I told Matt that when we are old (ish) and retired or at least have older kids, we should make things together (woodish things). He agreed, so we are all set.

Laundry Day Quilt

2010-09-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

I want to make this quilt with all my heart.

Problem #1 I have no time.
Problem #2 I have many other projects to do
And oh yeah, problem #3, I don't know how to quilt! Dang, I just might have to learn for this one.

Quilt design by Pine Mountain Designs, seen at Pine Needles at Gardner Village.

MaLM - Organize

2010-09-13T14:37:00.000-07:00

Make a List Monday -- What to Organize
There are MANY things that I would like to organize, starting with my life, ha ha!

Let's see.

1. My life
2. my bedroom
3. my closet
4. my laundry room
5. my paperwork
6. my pantry
7. my garage
8. my storage room
9. my scrap/craft/exercise room

Okay, I could keep on going. . .

But let me just say that no matter how organized my pantry is, it will never look like this.

And it's a shame, too, because it is beautiful! But for one thing, I would never stencil all that on the walls. For another thing, my pantry shelves are all REALLY deep, so it won't ever look this good.

But if you want to see more of this beauty, check it out at House of Smith's.

Lake House Anyone?

2010-09-09T08:36:00.000-07:00

Would anyone else like a beautiful lake house with beautiful cedar siding? If you could choose, where would you put your house? By a mountain, by a lake or ocean, in the desert or on the plains, or does it not matter as long as you are in the big city (or near it)? Just wondering.

Blue

2010-09-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

What a pretty kitchen, don't you think? I'd paint my ceiling blue if I had a flat, un-vaulted one, and also if I hadn't already painted it once and realized what a total pain it was! I also love the few glass front cabinets, just the right amount I think.

I also love this living room. The blue is perfect. I don't have this formal of a space in my house though. Maybe someday. I love the curtains, fireplace, french doors and the symmetry.

MaLM - Labor Day

2010-09-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

Make a List Monday - How to celebrate Labor day with a newborn

1. Take a pass on the early morning hike with family in favor of sleeping in until 9:45!
2. Eat homemade crepes with vanilla yogurt and warm, fresh peaches from your own tree.
3. Run to the mall to take advantage of a few Labor Day sales.
4. Play games with your sweet kids, bonus if you win ;)
5. Plant a few flowers to brighten your new(-ish) flower bed.
6. Have a delicious grilled chicken with all the trimmings dinner followed by a homemade blackberry shake.
7. Play Horse (it has been a while and my basketball was a little rusty), and Catch Phrase (one of our favorite, easy and fun family games) and chat until bedtime.
8. Be grateful for so much happiness and so many blessings.

Lunch time

2010-09-06T14:43:00.000-07:00

During my many baby feeding times, I sit on my couch and play on my computer. I have found a few new interesting blogs. Like this one, Another Lunch.

It is all about packing cute, fun lunches for your kids in a quick, efficient and healthy way! And don't miss this cute post with these free printable notes!

I really wish I wasn't a lazy mom, then I'd make my kids healthy, cute lunches for school every day. Instead they eat school lunches, Friday pizza, chocolate milk and all! Maybe someday I'll change.

A Spot of Sun

2010-09-03T14:05:00.000-07:00

Early this morning, as the very earliest light started to creep in the window of our nursery, I rocked our little Summer. She had just eaten a little, and I put her up on my shoulder to burp. She quickly let her eyelids drop shut and fell asleep. Despite the strict feeding regiment we are on (due to some nursing problems), I just let her sleep.

How could I wake her? She was making that sweet, soft, I'm-full-and-content baby sigh with each tender breath. I love that sigh. It's one of my favorite things about newborns.

So instead of undressing her, changing her diaper, or doing the vigorous foot rub to wake her, I let her sleep on my shoulder. In fact, I took her to bed with me and felt my heart grow a little larger. Because it does, with each child I give away part of my heart that forever lives in that baby. And somehow with all those missing parts of my heart walking around the earth, inexplicably, my own has grown. Warmer, softer, and so much larger.

Sarah Richardson's Cottage

2010-08-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

I've heard a lot about Sarah Richardson, a designer from Canada, with several t.v. design shows, around the Internet these days. I pretty much love everything in her portfolio on her website, Sarah Richardson Design. I thought I'd share some pretty pictures of a cottage she designed.

I love the pastel colors, of course.

I love the beach house look.

All I'd need are a bunch of cosy rugs to make it work here in snow land. (It's coming. . .)

Watch for more soon.

A Front Yard Creek

2010-08-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

My yard plans change frequently with new ideas and pictures I find. It's a good thing my plans get put into place so slowly, then when I change, it only happens in my mind and on paper.

My latest plan includes a stream in my front yard! Okay, that might only happen in 15 years when I have a little more time, but I'm filing it away as awesome.

Check out this one in LA seen here on Studio G.

Wouldn't it be great to sit on your porch and listen to the stream gurgle, or watch while your grand kids splash around in it (see I really mean like 20 years from now!).

First Bath

2010-08-17T10:05:00.000-07:00

Getting wet

All clean!

Whew, worn out from all that washing

All tuckered out

Welcome Baby

2010-08-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

Welcome Summer! 9 lbs. 8 oz.

Sweet as can be.

Why I'm Hot, Sore, and a bit Grumpy

2010-08-05T15:53:00.000-07:00

Because motherhood is worth it!

Thanks to my MIL for sharing.

Birthday Week, 3???

2010-08-01T22:35:00.000-07:00

Will there be a third?

Birthday Week, 2

2010-07-29T22:30:00.000-07:00

Next up, Scott.

A Birthday Week

2010-07-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

First up, Rachel!

Sewing 101

2010-07-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, my cute sister-in-law and I visited Gardener Village for a little time away. The store we spent the longest in was Pine Needles, a fabric store. It is pure heaven for the visually inclined, like myself.

Now, I'm not much of a seamstress, but boy did I want to be on Saturday (and the last two nights where I spent hours of pregnancy-induced wakefulness dreaming of sewing projects and other random things).

And today on Bloom, a blog I like to follow, there was a post about a new-to-me blog Pickup Some Creativity that is hosting a big Sewing 101 party all month long with lots of guest bloggers. I've only read a few of them, but already think it will be a gold mine of information. So check it out!

Then maybe you can help me make my quilt.

Dining room light

2010-07-09T14:47:00.000-07:00

Just another "perfect" dining room light. Of course, I have no idea where to get it, and if I did it would be way too expensive. Boo for me!

From Elements of Style

My Girls' Piano Recital

2010-06-22T06:07:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely piano recital with both our girls. Both are so good at practicing and not complaining. They really like it. It also helps to have a great teacher!

Memorial Day and a Birthday

2010-06-21T06:12:00.000-07:00

Matt's birthday happened on Memorial Day this year. We celebrated with a early neighborhood breakfast at the park (unfortunately he was in charge of it and so had to be up working early!), a picnic up Provo Canyon with his family, and a yummy dinner at his brother's house. I love Matt's family and always enjoy spending time with them, they really are my family in every sense.

The beautiful hike

with lots of opportunities to throw rocks in water

and a cool beaver dam.

The sweet kids all had presents for their dad. Here Andrew has just bequeathed his light saber. Lucky for Matt, Andrew will continue to store it and keep it working for him!

Dawn and Rachel each bought a sweet present, too.

I love the sweet ideas that come from my kids. They make life beautiful and full of happiness.

Sightseeing Around St. Louis

2010-06-20T06:40:00.000-07:00

We had a few days to check out St. Louis. Of course we went downtown to see the Arch, Gateway to the West.

And saw the mighty Mississippi, very high from spring rain and runoff? (that's a very mountain thing and there weren't many mountains out there).

We went to the zoo which was beautiful, but where I took no pictures. We went to the Botanical gardens which were also beautiful and I DID take pictures. Here are just a few.

The koi were something else. They were huge and their big vacuum like mouths just sucked up anything. Honestly, they kind of grossed me out, so I took a break elsewhere while they were well fed.

St. Louis and the Doctors

2010-06-19T06:24:00.000-07:00

I recently took a little trip to St. Louis with my mom to attend the graduation of not one, but two brothers from Washington University's Law School. It was my first ever trip without my kids or husband since the beginning of this blessed union, 12 years ago.

We did some fun sightseeing (the Arch, the zoo, the botanical gardens which I'll share tomorrow). We had a lovely night with a leaky ceiling at the local Hilton, not so fun. And we had a great time just visting with family that has been "gone" for several years. It was a wonderful time, and so great to be able to share with my newly "Doctored" brothers.

My nieces and nephew are darling! We had a great time getting reacquainted. Usually I'm so busy being a mom that I don't get to be a very fun aunt. But that changed this trip, and I liked it!

And extra thanks to Lane and Julie who took such good care of us (fed us and housed us). They were great.

A Vaulted Kitchen

2010-05-29T20:57:00.000-07:00

My lucky sister is getting to design a new kitchen (part of a new house she's building). I thought she might appreciate this inspiration :).

Isn't it gorgeous!

Seen on Daisy Pink Cupcake

A Spot of Sun

2010-05-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

Well, the afternoon has clouded over, but there has been plenty of sunny news to tide me over until the real sun comes around again.

1. The kids are done with school, all with happy faces. And they didn't even throw any fits when we announced the new chores for the summer, maybe because we also announced their new bedtimes!

2. My brother found a good job for a Federal clerkship (he just graduated from Wash U Law School with my other brother. I got to go and will share pics soon.)

3. My 3 hour glucose test came back normal! Yea. 17 hours fasting with only a very nasty sugar drink to make me woozy and sick to my stomach was NOT my idea of fun.

4. I get to go on a date this weekend after a long drought.

I hope your weekend is looking sunny, too!

Busy in the Yard

2010-05-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

We've been busy in the yard this year already. We made a big flower bed in our front yard. We have a crab apple tree, several bushes and I'm transplanting/dividing a bunch of perennials to fill it up. I can't wait for it to bloom and fill in.

Charity has been very helpful, carrying around shovels, washing off in the sprinkler and being cute.

Andrew did most of his helping when we put the dirt in, he LOVED raking the dirt over and over into the grass. So helpful!

Our Patio

2010-05-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

One of these days (hopefully this weekend!) we'll have warm enough weather to enjoy our new patio set up. We found this great patio set on KSL classifieds for a great deal. I was lucky to get them when the first person flaked and forgot to show up, and so they let me come.

And here is the other side of our patio, our fun table that we've eaten at a handful of times already, sometimes with soggy bottoms due to wet cushions!

And the center piece of our patio and backyard, this lovely ode to children. Beware, someday it will be beautiful, and not just loads of fun. Someday.

We got to try it out the first night with a great fire and s'mores.

Here's to lots of fun on the back patio all summer! I hope you have all sorts of fun planned this spring. What are you looking forward to most?

At Least We Had Tulips

2010-05-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

The weather has been so lousy, we haven't been to Thanksgiving Point in a few weeks. Luckily, during the Tulip Festival, the weather was decent and we got to go several times. One night we took a picnic. We had such a lovely time. I love spring!

I totally loved this bed of tulips, pink, yellow, and peach. I think I'm going to do this in front of my cute little yellow house.

Andrew's button

2010-05-11T16:54:00.000-07:00

Sweet Andrew had his umbilical hernia repair today. He was so brave and cute. We had to be there at 7:00 and were out of there by 10:30. So it was quick and uneventful. Andrew is a little sore, but not too sore to wander around and follow the kids outside. He took a mammoth nap when we got home, and I hope he can sleep tonight.

His tummy is all covered up so we can't see the result, but I'm not sure I'll be happy. Let me explain. He had the cutest, biggest belly button. I loved it. But a few weeks ago (when we started all this talk of getting it "fixed") he became ashamed of it. He would always put his hand over it when he took his shirt off, he didn't like getting dressed even in front of his brother.

It made me so sad to have a child not like his body. I tried to tell him that the outie wasn't the problem, it was the hole underneath. But that is hard to understand. And all his siblings started wanting to see it.

So you see, I will miss that belly button. I wanted him to keep it and to learn to love it like I did. I want all my children to love themselves, every single part, even the ones that seem "different". So though I am glad he's all "fixed up", I still will miss that old outie. I hope it still pokes out when all is revealed in 7 days! And I hope he likes whatever is under there for the rest of his life, just like I'll love him no matter what he becomes.

P.S. Andrew told me he wants to be a doctor when he grows up and then he can take care of his mom when he's a dad. I was so happy, until he made it clear he meant the mom of his new family (his wife). This is quite a development, as he has always maintained that if he can't marry me (his first choice) that he didn't ever want to leave our house. He can live here as long as he wants! We'll see how long that is. ;)

Making Felt Food

2010-05-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

Long ago I posted about homemade food, felt and crocheted or knitted here. I have wanted to try it for so long. We brought the play kitchen out of the play room and put it in Charity's room a few months ago. She likes playing with it, so I thought it was time to try it out.

I started with easy stuff, like cheese and turkey, just making it up as I went. Then I moved on to the bread, fruit and veges and the donuts, which were probably the hardest of all. Hm, my apple slice seems to be missing.

She loves the donuts though. They fit over her wrist, so she'll wear them as bracelets until it's time to chow down.

Charity is Two!

2010-05-06T09:31:00.000-07:00

Charity turned two a few weeks back. She had a wonderful birthday. I love how all my kids give presents to their siblings, usually something they have made or don't play with anymore. It makes it more meaningful for everyone!

Dawn gave her an old doll, which she loved! Complete with handmade clothes. (We use old socks to make doll clothes, especially old soccer ones! It works great.)

The ice cream cone bubbles, maybe Charity's most played with toy, she's carrying it around as I type this. Part of Rachel's gift.

The goods, note the play food donut she's eating up. I made Charity some felt play food. I've been wanting to try it for so long, and I'm so happy how it turned out! I'll show you that more in detail tomorrow.

She was a pro at the candles. She knew just what to do!

We gave her a doll outfit that matches her sister's dolls. Aren't they cute all together?

And of course, the close by grandparents were there. Often we invite many cousins and other family to birthdays, but we've found with really little ones, a smaller party is better and results in a much happier child.

Easter 2010

2010-05-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

We hosted Easter Dinner at our house this year for Matt's family. Besides being General Conference weekend and Easter, it was also his Mom's birthday.
The kids had their own bright cheery table complete with Peep place cards.

The two kids that didn't fit at the table.

The adult table.

The whole gang relaxing after a good meal.

The two birthdays we celebrated.

A loud, crazy, happy, family celebration for remembering our Savior and his miraculous Atonement and Resurrection!

Kids Bathroom Trough Sink

2010-05-04T21:30:00.000-07:00

I think this is so adorable. I don't think I'd ever be brave enough to put something so non-traditional in my house though. I'm too cheap. I would always figure it wouldn't pay off in the end.

From La La Lovely

Neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt

2010-05-04T09:01:00.000-07:00

On the Friday before Easter, we had our annual neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt. The little kids race to collect candy and eggs, the older kids have a hunt with clues to find their candy. And they all get to meet the Easter Bunny.

This year it was cold and windy. But all's well that ends well. And anything that ends with candy is very well for my kids!

Andrew was the cutest! He loved the Easter Bunny, stood right by him, gave him knucks repeatedly, and didn't stop smiling.

Charity wasn't a big fan of the Easter Bunny. No surprise; she didn't like Santa either.

Charity seems happier with the candy.

Ready, set, wait! No stopping those boys.

There are 6 little boys Andrew's age in our circle! (One is missing.) It is so much fun for him.

Things I Wish I Procrastinated

2010-04-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

There are a few things I procrastinate so badly, that I really just never do. I wish I could call it procrastinating, but really, I just don't even do it.

1. clothes mending, usually my kids just grow out of it before I fix it
2. writing in my journal
3. exercising
4. craft projects, so many dreams, so little motivation
5. scrapbooking, I rethought this one, and mostly I really just don't do it

The Banishment of the Binky

2010-04-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

My sweet little 2-year-old princess needs to be done with her binky. I keep putting it off (hmm, another bit of procrastination). Yesterday, we couldn't find it at nap time, so I decided to not look too hard. And she went down without it. It was "lost".

Charity was so sad. She wanted to look for it. We tore apart her bed, no bink. She looked at me sadly, and said "Pockets?" So we checked my pockets. Nope. So I tucked her in.

And she cried. Not for too long, 6 or 7 minutes maybe. But it was so sad.

Then by bedtime, I had found it and stowed it away, determined to perservere in my mommy cruelty. And she asked for it, looked for it, pleaded for it, cried for it. She looked at me sadly with her beautiful blue eyes and said "miss it."

Now this sweet little one doesn't have many things that are hers that are really important to her. She's got her mommy and her daddy. She's got her room. And she's got her binky. And I took it away. And she was sad. Oh, I hate it.

She cried again at night, longer and more sincerely. She cried today at nap time. And Matt put her to bed tonight while I was out. I called to say I was coming home, and she had cried for a good 45 minutes. Oh, this is hard. It makes me sad.

I can take her crying through her vaccinations; they are really important. She can cry through her tantrums; she's mostly just mad. But I really hate making her sad about something that really doesn't seem that important. But we've started, and I guess I'm not backing down. Even for big, sad, sweet eyes.

Procrastination

2010-04-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

I am a much better dreamer than doer. Therefore, I procrastinate.

Here is just a sampling of things I like to procrastinate.

1. folding laundry
2. mopping the floor
3. making phone calls, especially business ones
4. Visiting Teaching, (this is double bad because it usually requires a phone call, too)
5. scrapbooking
6. deciding whether to keep clothes or return them, especially things I buy for my kids
7. getting my hair cut
8. making dinner
9. recyling my newspaper (you should see my pile)
10. downloading my digital pictures from my camera, except I did it today! So just you wait for some sweet pictures coming soon.

And many, many more things. Is this common at all? Do any of you procrastinate? or is it just pathetic old me.

Stay tuned for tomorrow and my list of things I wish I procrastinated.

MaLM - Annual Safety Pack Update

2010-04-05T08:37:00.000-07:00

Make a List Monday - Annual Safety Pack Update

Every April General Conference, we update our "safety backpacks" as we call them. We have one for each member of the family with emergency supplies needed for a fast break. They aren't designed for ease and luxury, but for emergency evacuation.

I've been wondering what else I need to put in them. This is what we have so far.

1. change of clothes, including underwear and socks
2. diapers if applicable
3. water, not enough really, but enough that a 4-10 year old can carry their own
4. food (granola bars, dried fruit, crackers, jerky, etc. -- nothing heavy)
4. emergency blanket (the foil looking ones)
5. a garbage bag
6. a whistle
7. a toothbrush
8. a flashlight
9. Matt and I have a few extras like hygiene stuff, pocket knife)

So what I'm wondering is what else you would include. We can't put much more in, to keep it really mobile for the kids, but I'm wondering about

1. cash
2. house key
3. documents and phone numbers
4. radio
5. first aid
?

10 Things I've Been Putting Off

2010-03-26T14:57:00.001-07:00

Today I marginally decided to do 10 things that I'd been putting off. You know, those things that just never get done. I got 9 done. So I am a pretty happy girl. How many more things have I been putting off? Don't ask.

10 Things Not Put Off Any More!

1. Glue broken Easter decorations
2. Sew Andrew's broken tie (he missed it for a few Sundays)
3. Finish reading my Great-great-Grandfather's biography (he emigrated from Switzerland, had 3 wives, was the German-Swiss Mission President twice, lived in Providence, Utah and Paris, Idaho where he was the first mayor. Fancy, huh.)
4. Swept (with help from Scott) and mopped my kitchen
5. Swept (with a lot of encouragement for Scott) and mopped my kitchen (easily counts for 2)
6. Made banana bread with those really nasty looking bananas (well, I did that yesterday, but I ate it today!)
7. Spray painted a frame white that has been hanging mismatched in Charity's room
8. Planted the rest of my wheat grass (the pots planted Wednesday are already shooting up!)
9. Painted my toenails. Yea Spring!
10. Guess what, I didn't do 10. It was fold a bunch of loads of laundry that have been piling up. Do you have any idea how much laundry a family of 7 produces? Okay, a lot of you do. But it is monstrous! That one will have to wait for another day.

P.S. Charity says hi!

Pink Chair, oooooohhhh!

2010-03-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

I love pink, I do. And this chair is darling! I wish I could sew a slipcover like this. Check out the before and after, too.

From Much To Do With Nothing

Darling Play Kitchen

2010-03-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

I found a blog that mostly sells refinished furniture, The Frosted Gardner. And while some of the pieces are very cute, I really wanted to show you this play kitchen that her mother put together for the grand kids. Isn't it amazing?

A real fridge with treats, a real sink, lots of play pieces and all darling! I want to make one of these for my grand kids (in a lot of years). Check out the other pictures and a list of all the amenities here!

Stripes for the Playroom

2010-03-12T09:08:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't a playroom (like mine) look darling in stripes like this?

Seen on Room Remix along with a lot of other great stripes.

Who Do You Think You Are?

2010-03-09T09:37:00.000-08:00

I just watched the first episode of Who Do You Think You Are? on NBC.com. (If you missed it last Friday you can watch it here.) I loved it. I thought it was very inspiring. At least I wanted to log on to Ancestry.com right then and find some fascinating ancestors.

Did you see it? What did you think?

A New Nephew

2010-02-23T08:15:00.000-08:00

A new nephew, Asher to join the happy family.

Playing Catch Up

2010-02-22T15:34:00.000-08:00

When the holidays are over, I'm done with them. You have until January 2, maybe the next weekend, then please, let's put it all away. I love every minute up until then. But then I reach a serious limit.

As a result, I just now downloaded all my Christmas pictures from my camera. I posted a few times, but put them back in the appropriate months. If you are a grandparent or otherwise, crazily interested you can see our holiday decor, meeting Santa, Christmas Day, Andrew's little tragedy, going sledding, being tuckered out from the holidays, a cousin's baptism, a new niece's blessing and football party extraordinaire.

Inspired Beautiful Bedrooms

2010-02-10T08:52:00.000-08:00

Over at Things to Inspire, there is the most beautiful collection of bedroom pictures. The post is all about whether to build in windows on either side of a bed. I think it is beautiful and would always go for more windows (whenever I build my dream house). What do you think?

A Dining Room Light

2010-02-03T12:40:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting a new light above my dining table ever since I moved in and hated our $40 special.

Matt promised we could get a new one, and even "gave" me one for my birthday (for me to choose out). The problem is, I can't decide what to get. And I've thought about it, trust me. I just saw this one on Simplified Bee, a new-to-me blog. I think this one might be perfect. Great, I'm sure it is terribly expensive.

That's why we still have the $40 special!

Another pretty one from Room Remix

A Spot of Sun

2010-01-28T14:06:00.000-08:00

The kind of spot of sun I dream about all winter long-a beautfiul patio/dining area.

From Brabourne Farm

More beautiful parties

2010-01-25T10:25:00.000-08:00

More partying going on around the blogosphere.

and much more at Daisy Pink Cupcake

Birthday parties

2010-01-21T20:19:00.000-08:00

I haven't had too many really cute birthday parties for my kids, okay, I haven't had many parties for them period. I just think it is too much crazy work. But sometimes I feel up to it. I may have to use some of these really cute ideas I've seen around the web recently.

A sweet candy themed one at Hissyfits Photography.

A whole slew of adorable parties at Kara's Party Ideas like this adorable Raggedy Ann party.

And more cute parties at One Charming Party.

A Lovely Laundry

2010-01-20T10:17:00.000-08:00

Not even a laundry room as pretty as this would make me want to wash all the clothes from our weekend away, plus loads before that are still waiting, lurking, stinking...

From Brabourne Farm

And a Turquoise Kitchen

2010-01-20T09:27:00.000-08:00

I found a beautiful blog today that I've been pursing for longer than I want to admit, House of Turquoise. I think I like just about every picture I've seen. And now besides wanting a pink bedroom, I want a turquoise kitchen. Do you mind honey?

A New Niece

2010-01-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

We trekked to Idaho Falls to meet our new niece Bella. She was blessed in church and also got to attend a sweet football party thrown by my younger brother.

The guest of honor, baby Bella

We had a great time. And that is not only because I totally won the football throw half-time challenge, although that was a large part of it!

Here I'm wearing my sweet prize, the Dr. Pepper PJ's and holding my new Dr. Pepper worthy glass. (Never mind that I don't like Dr. Pepper or any cola for that matter, I will wear my pants with pride and joy every time I visit home!)

A Pink Bedroom

2010-01-14T08:27:00.000-08:00

It wouldn't take too much to convince me to have a pink bedroom (or at least lobby my husband for one).
And this photo just about does it. (BHG.com)

Garden Dreams in January

2010-01-13T12:11:00.000-08:00

It's starting already. Every winter, after the glow of Christmas is past, and the long haul of coldness stretches out before me, I start dreaming of gardening. That is really where I excel, the dreaming part. Round about June or July, I am all out of dreams and not an ounce of work ethic left. So, I enjoy the dreaming.

Well, I already got my first plant catalog in the mail and today I opened it up during lunch. Oh, there were some pretty ones, day lilies, hostas, campanulas and of course the echinaceas and rudbeckias that I love. Anyway. . .

I've already started dreaming of a few projects I want to try this spring. First is a new big flower bed around the crab apple tree we planted last fall. That has been in the works for some time, so I'm pretty sure I can get that one done.

Second is a terrarium. I saw this pretty one on Midwest Living.

However, owing to the fact that I don't own anything like that, I may have to try something like one of these.

Third, I want to make fairy or mini-gardens with my girls this spring. I prefer them without fairies showing.
BHG.com
Odeedoh.com
Odeedoh.com (Isn't the tire swing totally cute)
How About Orange had a link to directions at The Herb Companion.

Forth, I have been thinking of trying a tabletop water garden, where you just put water in a pot, a few water plants, and presto! But I can't find the picture I have of one, so you'll just have to imagine.

MaLM - 2010

2010-01-11T09:41:00.000-08:00

Make a list Monday

Well, hello again. We had a wonderful holiday, but I'm glad it is January. I took down the last remaining holiday decor this weekend, and I'm so glad to see my house again! It's inspired me to change things up a bit. I'm planning on moving and shaking up all my house decor and put it all in a new place. With no new purchases required, I'm redoing my whole house! Now I just need the energy to do it. But first the laundry...

So here is my first list of the new year.

What I am going to attempt to accomplish this year.

1. I am going to strive for more balance this year, balance between children, husband, friends, cleaning, sleeping, learning and growing. I'm counting on prayer to help me figure the right balance out for me.

2. Spend more time outdoors (I'll wait until spring to start this one) I resolve to spend more time during the hot summer, and the unpredictable spring and summer out of doors, especially keeping up my yard.

3. Matt and I are resolving to get the kids tucked in at 8:00 for real, and ourselves put to bed by 10. We are working hard at this, and our kids are working hard against it. But we are decided. I'll let you know ;)

4. Our continuing goal is to have a date every week. Last year I kept a date journal for Matt detailing all our dates. I surprised him with it for Christmas. So I happen to know that we had 51 dates last year! That includes dates out, dates in, temple trips, double dates, overnighters, adult church meetings, concerts, plays, walks and more. Wow, I didn't think there would be that many because we certainly missed a few weeks, but having two some weeks really boosted us up. This goal is so important for our relationship and for our kids' well-being as well. This is a life long goal!

5. I resolve to get my hair cut at least 3 times this year!! I know, this may seem pathetic to so many of you, but I have such a hard time doing it. I either have to get a babysitter, or have Matt work from home, schedule it way out, blah, blah, blah.

6. I resolve to NOT be a room mom next year. I'm just saying.

That's it for now. I always get more ideas, but these are all I'm committing to for now. How about you? What is your new years goal?

Cousin Fun

2010-01-06T15:08:00.000-08:00

Our niece was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We were so happy to be able to join them for the special day.

Matching cousins (both 8-years-old)

Father and sons

The Holidays are Over

2010-01-05T15:31:00.000-08:00

And it is a good thing, because we are plumb worn out.

Sledding

2010-01-04T14:49:00.000-08:00

Last year we never made it sledding and we heard about it all year. So this year we decided to get it done over Christmas break. We drove up the canyon to the church-owned Mutual Dell and totally lucked out when the family group that was getting ready to leave offered us their leftover hot chocolate in exchange for a few pictures. We were happy to oblige!

Andrew's Bonus Present

2010-01-03T14:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas afternoon Andrew decided that he needed a little more excitement. So he banged his head into our padded ottoman and gashed open his eyelid.

After consulting the family (real family that is, uncle) doctor, we decided we had to get a few Christmas stitches. For a real doozy of a present, Uncle M offered to do the stitches for us at his clinic. So we met him there and Andrew got 5 stitches. Uncle M said that he was probably the best 4-year-old he'd ever stitched since he was so still and quiet, which made Andrew quite proud and happy.

Christmas Day

2010-01-02T13:52:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas Day complete with happy grandparent house guests. Here are a few pictures of the happy day.

Christmas Scenes Around our House

2009-12-22T14:42:00.000-08:00

Come on in.

Our new tree decorations I've been collecting at after Christmas sales for a few years.

I finally finished Andrew's stocking. Now where is Charity's?

Our second tree (first time with two trees!) with all the good old standby ornaments that are a tradition.

Gingerbread Houses for Mugs

2009-12-18T12:13:00.000-08:00

Aren't these so adorable? They are from Not Martha. Someone make them and tell me how it goes, would you? Better yet, bring some to my house!

Piano Recital

2009-12-18T08:14:00.000-08:00

We went to Rachel's first piano recital last week. It was Dawn's third. They both did so well. We're proud of them.

Rachel was very nervous, to the point of being very ornery on the way there. She kept saying "I don't know what to do!" Scowl, scowl. So we'd go over every detail and she'd whine and say again, "I don't even know what to do!" We knew she was just so nervous. And she played perfectly. Afterward we celebrated with Krispy Kreme donuts. And everyone was happy.

I guess I really need to learn how to post videos. That would be a bit more interesting, wouldn't it?

Festival of Trees, part 2

2009-12-17T08:43:00.000-08:00

Besides the trees, the Festival of Trees is known for the fabulous gingerbread houses they auction off for Primary Children's Medical Center. We were not disappointed.

This castle must have been 5 feet tall. It was huge!

The Ginch's mountain, cave, and the Who Village

Park City Main Street

I especially liked the trees on this one.

Nightmare before Christmas

There were 2 depictions of the "Up" house.

You can't go wrong with a beautiful house like this. Plus I love any house that has lit windows.

And then there was the gingerbread train. Wow.

And a few other pictures I snapped. I really want this Nativity Tree. All the levels rotated.

And included was the Disney Princess Carousel.

There are usually a few play houses. This one was awesome with two levels and a flat screen tv! (look throught the upstairs window)

Aren't people amazing. And remember they are all donated for the Children's Hospital. If you've never been look for it next year and go! You won't be disappointed.

Festival of Trees, part 1

2009-12-16T09:50:00.000-08:00

I got to sneak out with my mother-in-law and some sibs for a quiet trip to the Festival of Tree in Salt Lake. Here are a few of the pretty trees we saw.

I loved the little table with the aprons over the chairs, plus it's pink!

A nice traditional tree that could actually go in someones home.

I loved these lantern lights.

How about a camping tree with smores sprouting out the top?

This was with a tree, but I'd just love to have this for all my state quarters.

This was a cool idea. There were three trees, one for each of the magi.

A closeup of one of the gifts on a tree.

This tree was sporting a sweet peacock theme.

This set up had four trees with wires supporting flying Star Wars ships and a million Star Wars figures and ships. A little boy's dream! (at least my little boys')

Nightmare before Christmas tree (clever to have it upside down, no?)

A picture of a southern Utah tree for my sweetie.

I loved the Grinch in the middle (literally) of taking the tree "back to workshop my dear") Side note, last night we taught Charity our 1-year-old to say "Why?" in a high Cindy Lou Who way. So cute!

Stay tuned for part 2, the non-tree items to be found, including a awesome gingerbread train!

Christmas busy!

2009-12-15T10:18:00.000-08:00

We have been oh so Christmas busy this month. Here's a little of what we've been doing.

A few weeks ago we went to Temple Square in Salt Lake City to see the lights, listen to the nativity, see the Christus statue and watch Luke 2. Such a wonderful tradition. Just dress warm!

The "uncle daddies" (hubby and his brother) went to the BYU/Utah game, even celebrated a bit on the field with all the fans after a great overtime win.

Dawn had her ballroom dance recital. Okay, mostly we got video, but here is a terrible photo just to prove it.

And then we took out two oldest to the Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert with Natalie Cole and David McCullough. It was wonderful, the Choir being the best part as usual. Due to the a new terror threat, Matt couldn't take his camera with a scary detachable lens (gasp!) into the Conference Center. So we only got this picture outside at considerable risk due to the absolutely freezing temperatures.

I hope you have been happy Christmas busy too!

Santa Claus

2009-12-12T15:22:00.000-08:00

All the kids got to see Santa and sit on his lap at the Church Christmas party for children. After a yummy breakfast, we heard bells, and there he was! Andrew was thrilled, Scott happy enough, the girls giggling, and Charity, not going anywhere near his lap.

Teacher gifts

2009-12-04T13:13:00.000-08:00

Skip to My Lou has a free download for printing your own personalized book plates for teachers. So cute. Go here.

Thankful 7

2009-11-24T14:29:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for relaxing the house clean up while everyone is sick.

I'm thankful not everyone is sick anymore, mainly just 2 of 7.

I'm thankful for malls

I'm thankful for shopping online, too.

I'm thankful for Christmas music and Christmas lights, and Christmas gifts and hopefully Christmas inspiration.