the c-bad six

my baby girl

2011-12-29T20:07:00.000-08:00

Me and my puppy, just 10 weeks old

Look at my sweet little girl. She was the fuzziest puff ball for the first few months. She is so big now. we were just talking last night about how the puppy days are behind us, its so sad. I miss her puppy breathe. Madisen misses how small and fuzzy she was.

Today the sun was out, so we ventured outside. I loaded up my BOB and we set out on an adventure, roxy leading the way. We got to the fields near out house where a big creak runs through. Earlier we found a bird nest full of feathers and skeletons. So we had to show it to Jeddy today. The only issue was with the twenty five hundred feet of snow we have been dumped with its now melting. Yes that's a good thing. It however brings lots and lots of water and MUDDDDDD. Benson was walking up the creak, its about 15 feet deep. Once at the top he slipped and was literally stuck in the mud. he lots his boots and socks and was sad. So I pulled him out cheered him up and pt him in the BOB.

the two big kids were on their bikes. Jeddy was covered in muddy bike spray. Roxy had turned from a beautiful golden retriever to a chocolate lab. My bathtub was filled with dirt, like an inch of slimy dirt in the bottom after the final rinse off. It was a wet dirty walk, but it was fun.

Roxy loves to go with us on Saturdays to the kids horseback riding lessons. She is not scared of horses, but terrified of cows. We love our roxy dog. just thought you'd like to meet her. Now that she is a big dog.

I am totally trying to win

2011-12-29T14:47:00.000-08:00

I am trying to win The coolest tool ever. It is expensive. Its just not practical for me to buy something so expensive. However I really need this. I dream about it and all the ways i could be using it. But there is like 12 being given away on all these blogs i follow, so I hope to be one of the 12 thats gets a free one.

I hope my 2 readers also win a free one, but if you win one and i dont you have to give it to me. i mean my birthday is just 8 days away. jk. Azure is alseep so i have right now to get all my entries in at all the different awesome blogs.

infarrantly creative
tater tots and jello
crap i've made
skip to my lou
craft a holics anonymous

myrepurposedlife
whipperberry.com
www.allthingsthrifty.com
eighteen 25
brown paper packages
sew dang cute
www.shanty-2-chic.com
tip junkie
www.oopseydaisyblog.com
i heart nap time
.house of hepworths

see all the work i have put in to this . .now go and win one

Catch 22

2011-11-26T20:25:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving, what a wonderful time of year and holiday.

What a terrible memory you hold.

Two groups of very different cultures trying to live their religion and their lives come together. I personally think the native american incredible humanity and knowledge was far superior to any help Bradford and his clan gave them. But I love a great harvest and feast!

My father gave me so many things. I feel like the struggling pilgrim. I do not know the land, or gardening, or harsh survival. My dad was there for me to teach me and help me grow. I know it was not easy for him. I learned so many things from him.

I owe my awesome sense of direction, dry humor, height, random knowledge to him.

I have struggled through the years to separate thanksgiving from the event of my fathers death. The two coincided 8 years ago.

I love my Dad, I miss him. His passing was a big milestone in my life. I truly gained a testimony and knowledge of the gospel through that event. I truly cherish the blessing gained from that trial. As I am sure the pilgrims felt of their survival, only half of them made it through the winter.

I often think of thanksgiving and my father death as Frodo thought of middle earth after his great big adventure.

"How do you pick up the threads of an old life? How do you go on, when in your heart, you begin to understand . . . there is no going back? There are some things that time cannot mend, some hurts that go too deep . . .that have taken hold."

These words really resonate with me. How can I enjoy, celebrate this holiday, when i have been so hurt and changed by events that happened during you? I very much feel I cannot go back. Life is not how it once was. Some hurts and wounds will not be fixed in this life. Unlike Frodo I have a Savior. And I know all will be made right, pure and eternal. So as I have a heavy heart and have tender memories racing through my mind, I heap loads of yummy food in my mouth.

Dad, thanks for giving me a knowledge and love of history, the gospel and our savior, see you later!

Matt Fever

2011-11-07T21:47:00.000-08:00

I am so excited!!!! Wednesday night my favorite of all time favorite singer/song writer of all time will be performing at the CMA awards.

He, Matt Nathanson, will be performing his song he does with Sugarland called 'run'.

LOVE IT, WATCH IT, ENJOY IT

earlier this summer Ben, the Toys and I went to a Sugarland concert and i was so hoping he would pop in. He didn't, and we got rained out but it was so fun. Then just a few weeks ago Matt came to Denver, so yeah I was there. With Mrs. Toy, seriously it was the best night ever in like five years. Thanks Mrs. Toy for going with me. Thanks Matt for such a fun night of rockin music and super entertaining covers.

Looking forward to Wed night . . .we will tivo the CMA's for sure.

At last living in our HOME

2011-08-31T22:02:00.000-07:00

My $1.96 custom ribbon box. I just couldn't swallow spending 15 to 25 dollars on one so I just made one with a clearance box, dowel and screws.

My awesome craft room. Still organizing so excuse the clutter and piles. Magic happens here. I have fixed, repaired all the broken books, ceramics,toys, jewelry, and mending from the last YEAR all in the last two weeks. It is amazing what u can accomplish with some TIME and the tools and space to do it. Don't forget to keep your baby bottles. I used them to organize all my notions, buttons, and cute things. I messed up the rows so I do not come across as to OCD with my craft organizing.

You should notice the brand of soap. It is the only brand allowed in this bathroom. One of my favorite features is my awesome magazine rack (thank you 'The Container Store' I love you). I am not saying it is awesome to have it in the bathroom, i just love the rack. Bring up the location with Ben.

Some of the family room, I still need to decorate and actually hang pictures where i want them, not just where a nail was left. But I will get to that . . . .eventually.

My awesome new Bed, our first frame ever of 11 years of marriage. We went shopping for an entertainment center and could not decide on anything. Ben did not want to actually pay for the furniture, and I was getting fed up with how much time it was taking to get one. We decided to cool off and change topics because we were at an impasse. So we walked around the bedroom sets for fun. Ben asked me my favorite. I told him, and then he just went and bought it. I can hear all your jaws dropping. He didn't even ask the price. Now if I can only figure out a way to repeat this when we go AGAIN for an entertainment center. He did make me promise I would make it everyday. We'll he said "lets make sure the last one out of bed makes it everyday". I am always the last one in bed. It is the least I can do. I have a beautiful bed.

Kids bathroom, Ocean theme: sears and target. It was really hard to get all 3 big kids to decide on one theme for their bathroom. I think madisen was kinda stubborn because she thought she would have her own bathroom. We got it worked out and they do pretty good about keeping it nice. I just need to start cutting fingers off every time I see a toilet with donations left. that should motivate them to remember to flush, right?!?!?!

This would be the cement fence, 211 linear feet of pressed concrete posts and railing. Sorry I took this at 10pm so its dark, the triple pane window is the 'piano room', then it curves with the staircase, the back of the house is my craft room, bottom floor and the master bath upstairs.

We just dropped a huge load of money to get a concrete fence. I have been searching long and far for a dog. We are finding that the price tag for the dogs we want are between $750 and 4,100. So now we are thinking we might hit a few shelters. I cant wait to chase a little puppy, and walk it with Azure. I totally cant wait to put the two kids in my awesome BOB (thank you Marie and friends) and have my sweet dog along side as we blaze through all the trails around our neighborhood. We have a bunch of lakes close by so we can run around a lake or two after we drop the big kids off.

This will all abruptly end when the cold Gods send white fluff down from the sky.

Dear Mr Basement,

I am so glad we have finally met. I love your finished work and high pile carpet. You keep my kids occupied, and entertained. I love the stories that leave your walls. Stories of Hogwarts, and lego construction, stories of Forts, and dress ups, from gleaming faces I love.

Sincerely yours

Their Mom

The basement has a guest room and full bath and this snowboard closet. We got all the boards, boots and bindings for $25.00. That is cheaper then 1 rental. We almost can not wait for snow, almost. Jeddy boarded all over the lawn. He did not get very far, funny kid.

I am so excited to live in my home. I am so excited to not be a renter. I love walking into a room and saying I can and want to paint the walls in here. That really only happens in the kids rooms, I really want to get decorating them!!!!!!!!

If I did not take a picture of it it was not clean. So guess what all be doing tomorrow with all the rest of the space in the house you didnt see.

I am most excited for all of you to visit! Looking forward to McEvoy this weekend, and my brother from Japan later in the month. Calendar is open!

Stats

2011-08-31T21:11:00.000-07:00

Married- 11 years, est. March 18, 2000

Moves- 12 (6 of which are across the country or states away)

Children- 4 (Each born in a different state)

Dogs- 0

Debt- add a zero and times by 7 to the average personal debt of americans. I have always said we are not average!

Cars taken to the grave- 3 (grey, Rodeo, and The freak may you RIP)

Cavities- me three, zero for the other 5

Computers- 10 yr old desk top, 1 laptop, unlike my sister Brittany that spawns tablets and computers everytime I visit. HaHa, u know i love u.

Hammocks- on our 5th, it seems to be lasting. But now we will have to take it in for the winters.

Blenders- 1, the original from our wedding

Poopy diapers i changed today- 0

The friends, family and ward members we have crossed paths and served along side with- countless

Thank you for babysitting, packing, moving, cleaning, picking up my kids, and your service!

Settling

2011-08-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

This is Benson at a fun pond by our house. He loves looking for the fish and chasing bunnies in our new neighborhood.

We have finally landed!

Azure and Benson, with CJ asleep in the corner. Sierra, Madisen and Jeddy are in the back. The kids spent way too much time driving across the country this summer.

After 15 different beds (family's homes, hotels, motels) we are comfortable in our new home.
We have spent 12 nights in hotel's and 3 weeks visiting family, broken up into a few days, or a week here and there. We are not sad to end our spree of homelessness, but sad from all the people we have left.
Adorable Azure sporting pig tails. she is up to 10 teeth now, and is pretty much teething constantly. We oral gel her daily. Azure isnt really talking, but loves to scream!

We spent the summer, in cedar city, orem, payson, alpine, salt lake, urbandale iowa, nauvoo, independence, carthage, liberty, Kansas City, playing at our awesome rec center and pools. I have logged countless hours shopping. We really needed allot of things: trash cans, broom, weed killer, hose, shower curtains, rods and towells, spices, FOOD, shelves, furniture, toilet paper, tuperware, more shelves, drawer organizers, school supplies, uniforms for the charter school, piano books, birthday gifts. Ben almost passes out everytime he reviews the credit card.

We love the new house. We still have 2 empty rooms and basically a full empty basement (it only has toys in it. Our dryer broke right as we moved in. We took it apart and cleaned it out. We pretty much thought it was a broken current from a blown therma fuse. So i ordered a part on amazon and we were abel to get it repaired for under 7$. Benson happily tells me alomost everyday how nice our new house is, and that he loves it Azure loves her room, we just got a cozy chair in there to read with her.

Above picture is Madisen at her school. Please notice the so cute headband i made her and she designed the night before school. Next is M and J on Madsen's first day of school. Next is Jeddy in front of his new charter school on his first day. My big 1st grader cant wait!

I'll post pics of my darling kids. Hopefully with 2 kids at school i can actully find time to blog.

He's been Jimmered!

2011-03-17T16:10:00.000-07:00

Ben called me after work last night.
Said he found a flight, an 'affordable one'.

He left this morning at six for LA.

He is now in Denver participating for the first time in the NCAA tourney.

BYU is playing well (could be better if we still had Davis).

Let's go Cougars! Look for Ben, as you watch the games. He will be in the stands screaming and yelling. I hope he paints his body half blue and half white.

He at least better have a sign! I mean if your going to go to march madness, go all the way.

Feel free to remind him of how fun and wonderful his life is, and what a GREAT wife he has to let him go off and play on our 11 year anniversary. While I stay home with 4 kids, 2 of which are sick.

Let's just not let him forget that.

And really here are some cute pics of Azure . . .the trend for teething. drool and keep your fingers in your mouth. tooth count is up to 4.

Emergency prepardness

2011-03-11T07:06:00.000-08:00

Last night at 9pm I got a text from my Mom "just had the biggest earthquake yet, it shook everything good". I texted back to get more information and no reply. I then emailed . . . .no reply. No skype!

I tried to read more online and get details. But it was too soon nothing had been reported, other then magnitude by the national registrar. It has been kinda scary not knowing.

Ben woke me up this morning a little worried because tsunamis have now hit. Death tolls are in the hundreds.

My Brother, his wife, and six kids live in Misawa Japan. They were just sealed in the Tokyo temple so my mom is there visiting. & of my immediate family members are there in the thick of the epicenter, and tsunamis.

It's been a whirlwind trying to find information about, their base, their city and etc. They live on the 10th floor in a high rise in a city like 15 minutes from the coast. The United States made a report on their base that they received extensive damage and all communication infrastructure is out.

Thankfully I just got through to my Mom, they are all OK. They have no power. My brother and his family are listening to a hand crank radio . . .to bad none of them know Japanese. They have to light candles for light. I am just really proud of my brother that he has prepared his family for this event. They have they emergency supplies needed. Now if we could just get the internet for them working.

Who knew I would ever be affected by earthquakes in Japan. Life leads us on winding roads. Hopefully we can all be prepared for what lays ahead on our paths. My heart is full. I am so grateful for their safety and well being.

2010-09-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

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Results Come from Doing

2010-08-05T15:41:00.001-07:00

"When our wagon gets stuck in the mud, God is much more likely to assist the man who gets out to push than the man who merely raises his voice in prayer—no matter how eloquent the oration."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Two Principles for Any Economy," Ensign, Nov. 2009, 56-57

Home Alone

2010-07-25T16:00:00.001-07:00

Ben wanted to visit his family. Azure is not fond of her car seat. A trip to Utah is 12 hours. Add a fussy, sad baby, and a just potty trained 3 year old. Equals more stress then was worth the trip. So Ben bravely decided he was going, and taking the 3 big kids himself. I immediately thought what a great idea that was.

One I get some peace and quiet.
Second Ben will be so much more grateful for me after having to deal with his kids by himself (which isn't accurate because 3 grandparents and countless Cousins, aunts and Uncles that love to play and do craft with them in Utah).
Thirdly, it put a deadline on much needed repairs to my car.

So here I am in my clean, quiet home blogging. I think Azure misses all the noise; she is always looking around and has not been sleeping very well. She is use to quit a ruckus going on around her. She does like that when I feed her now I am not walking around the house, or yelling orders to big kids. She looks up and smiles!

I have been crafting, which is a very important aspect to me in my life. Crafting and making things is very cathartic and pleasing to me. However, minus drawing transformers and coloring between the lines I never get crafting time. I'll attach links to some things I have done.

Every day of my 'Alone Time' (which really isn't alone time because I have a 2 month with me, but I'll take what I can get). I have a goal to do the following: Prayers, scripture/ensign reading, work out (cardio and toning for at least an hour), do something little for every member of my family, and do something creative!!!!! I have done so good about adhering to my goal. I made everyone's beds. They left me with a filthy house!!!!. I Vacuumed, sorted toy boxes, ironed clothes (I NEVER iron). It's been fun and peaceful. Minus my 5 am wake up calls from service repair guys in Virginia that don't realize the landlord lives in California, and Azure's crying fits at 3 am.

My floor is mopped, my table and chairs polished. . .and they have stayed that way. Hooray!

At church I was able to concentrate and listen to every speaker. This afternoon I listened to some conference talks. I'd like to comment a bit on Patience. Elder Uchtdorf gave an excellent talk on it. "There is an important concept here: Patience is not passive resignation, nor is it failing to act because of our fears. Patience means active waiting and enduring. It means staying with something and doing all that we can — working, hoping and exercising faith; bearing hardship with fortitude, even when the desires of our heart are delayed. Patience is not simply enduring; it is enduring well!"

I now feel I have the mental knowledge to know why and how. Not just ignore Jeddy's craziness and hold my breath until bedtime. I need to love him and properly redirect and encourage better behavior. Instead of sending MAdisen to her room when she argues I need to lovingly show her by example how not to. I fear she gets some bad habits from me. I need to engage Benson and be teaching him, not focusing on how I could be doing something more productive..

When life gets back to normal we need a shift from our status quo. I need more crafting Kim time, and the kids need a happier more patient mom!. I think the two will go hand in hand. Mine is crafting, weather its making my own yummy wheat bread, and packaging it with a cute label, or making flowers, scrapbooking, may you get 'your time' in as I am getting mine. Enjoy your Sabbath.

Give your loved ones a big hug. Wish I could hug all mine right now, even if it came with a messy floor.

Breast is best!

2010-06-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

Who ever said nursing was best didn't have a three year old that was deciding if he wanted to potty train or not. And definately didnt have boys.
4 times I have gotten Azure all fed, changed and happy only to move on to a Benson disaster involving him pooping all by himself. If you have kids, and have potty trained I am sure you know what I am talking about. If not call me I'll explain it to you.
I found Benson in my craft room with my Ginger scissor cutting away at what ever he could find. Luckily my projects were put away and it was tools, scraps and not too important of things he cut.

Benson poured milk for cereal all by himself, then dumped the bowl out. He changed his mind apparently.

Jeddy often uses this time to chase and torture his brother.

Multiple times Benson has quietly snuck into Madisen's room and tore it up getting in to all her barbies and eating all her candy. He likes to dumb her bins to find all the fun barbie shoes and accessories. Jeddy loves to take Madisen's things and hide them in his special yellow bin.

I really would prefer setting Azure up to an IV and have her feed that way. Then I could keep my eye on Benson better. Or I need to hand cuff him to my side while I nurse. but then he would be kissing and laying on Azure and I . . . .

Maybe I need to lock him in a padded room while I nurse.

Why is it Yellow?

2010-06-08T13:57:00.000-07:00

She has super long eyelashes like her grandpa Hatt. We have suvived this far with 4 kids. Azure is a typical newborn that sleeps for 2 to 3 hours then needs loving attention from her mommy, and food. I am not use to sleeping for only 2 to 3 hours so this has been very tiring for me. I am so tired!!! But I look at how adorable she and my other kids are and realize in 15 or 20 years I'll have an empty house and get to nap everyday. And I'll miss beng woken up by Jeddy and asked to draw a T-rex, or wake up to find Benson with poop all over him as he smiles proudly telling me he pooped in the potty and is a big boy!
Dad and his girls, they are both ready for bed. Azure's pj's are my favorite . . . all my kids wore them. I think Ben wore them as a kid also. They are like thermal underwear . . .they are so long and skinny . . . . Like all my kids. So they fit perfectly and I just think they are so cute.

Bedtime for our kids is 7pm. We have not made it to bed before 8 for a month. HA ha. Last night Ben was playing with his birthday gift a new camcorder. So we sang karaoke basically from Madisen's ipod and took turns doing performances until 8:40 pm. Since Azure we really have cut out a lot of things. Now that softball and t-ball are over we have so much more time at home as a family. That has really been a blessing. We go on walks through the neighborhood at the beach, and play games. It has been a very busy year, school and calendar. Ben is working full time and commuting long hours some days. All the kids have this and that. Plus Jeddy has lots, and lots of medical things, Dr's visit's, blood testing, allergy shots, etc. But is it all quieting down. We can just be a family most nights. It is such a blessing.
Hello . . . so cute! We had to make a late run to target on Saturday night to get a white Sunday shirt for Jeddy. Madisen, Jeddy and I, got distracted in the baby section and came home with a bundle of cute little outfits. Jeddy and I picked this elephant out fit. I spent the rest of sat night making headbands to match her outfits. Girls are so fun.

The boys favorite thing about Azure is she has yellow POOP. For every diaper I get an onslought of questions. Is it yellow, is it still runny, is she done?, why, why why. They love when she makes noises and fills her diaper. I always get a loud report. Mom, Azure filled her diaper. . . .Is it going to be yellow?
We went to all of church as a big happy family on Sunday . . . stake conference. The two big kids sang in a choir for it. I have to say other then seeing my kids sing and be deeply moved by the spirit with that it was pretty pointless to be there. Oh well brownie points in heaven right.

Azure came to 3rd hour, Primary with me Last Sunday. It is so much easier to get the bigger kids ready and send them with Ben. Then calmly get me and Azure ready while they are gone, and then we leisurely walk in an hour or too late.. I love Sundays because Ben helps with Azure on Saturday nights and I get naps!!!!! He has been really good to entertain the kids, he even had them all on his birthday. I got a nap and alone time On his Birthday while he took the 3 olders mini golfing and shopping. Start times and schedules are pretty pointless with a newborn. I am either really early or late. Nursing doesn't allow me to be on time . . .at least not yet.

My Mom was out for the first 2 weeks. She had the kids while I was in the hospital. It was nice to have them at home and not shuttled around from friend to friend. I was able to get a few naps in those two weeks. With some of my help but mostly on her own my made left us with:

4 meals of My Dad's yummy Corn Chowder,
3 Meals of my Favorite Taco soup,
5 Chicken pot pies that are worth their weight in gold.
4 batches of homemade tomato sauce,
2 pie crust,
pizza dough,
homemade rolls,
2 chicken enchiladas.
I think i am missing something?!?!?!

So the next few months I have an arsenal of frozen yummy food to pull out for meals. What a relief.

The next two weeks I was spoiled by friends, neighbors and ward members with at least 3 meals a week. So I really have not had to prepare a dinner, with all the left overs!!!!! That is such a blessing. Because trying to prepare and get a meal cooked while doing homework with Madisen, and entertain the boys, (or just keep them from hurting each other) is too much normally. So to then add a hungry little baby is pretty stressful. Like I said, I have not had to do many times yet. And school is almost out . . .so no more schedules other then what we set for ourselves. hooray.

well I have 2 kids sleeping, so I better take advantage of nap time before they wake up.

enjoy the pictures of our cutie.

Azure Mourie McEvoy

2010-05-11T07:40:00.001-07:00

Born May 7, 2010
8 lbs, 6 ozs

Nesting. . .getting ready for #4

2010-04-20T21:41:00.000-07:00

I never go early, at least not naturally. Madisen- induced for toxemia day before due date, Jeddy- due date, and then induced 4 days early for mere convenience with Benson.
I get so eager the last month, I almost loose my mind. So I leave packing the bags and setting up the crib etc, until 3 weeks to go. Which is this week. I have 18 days to go. YEAH!!
I have been spending the last several months buying diapers, wipes, shampoo, lotion, powder, oil, and baby wash at rock bottom prices. So I have 6 of all the ointment stuff. 2000 wipes, and just under 800 diapers ranging from newborn to size 3. I have even gotten formula for half price and several cereal and jars of food for free! And loads of free samples on everything. I am stocked and ready to hibernate. The best buy (not because of the deal but because of the stress it eliminated) was the car seat. I researched on consumer reports the safest and best car seat. Then I hunted one down on Craigs-list. I paid more then I should have but it was close, and in perfect! Perfect condition! I had 3 infected ears on 2 boys and didn't care to keep searching. So it was worth the extra cost to get it done. And I keep reminding Ben I saved us over $100 by not going to the store and buying it.
On Sunday I woke up at three AM with dire pain and really uncomfortable, cramp like not muscle tightening. I am pretty sure it was not braxton hicks contractions. But have never had them so I do not really know for sure. I woke Ben up at 4 am to help me find some Tylenol, I told him "I don't know where to look I cant find any in our bathroom." So he searched the hall closet, kitchen, kids bathroom, I think even went to the car. He came back empty handed. He went in our bathroom and found them immediately. I sent him on a wild goose chase. Obviously not on purpose, because I was really needing the pain killers and I don't enjoy jokes at 4 am.

So with that little warning I have been pretty ready to get things going this week. So are the kids. They get to pick out a boy outfit and a girl outfit to take to the hospital. For FHE we usually have the kids help clean all the equipment. So we hand out cleaning wipes and they wipe the tub, swing and etc out. They also get to load the Dishwasher with all the bottles, and help put diapers in the changing basket. They always love getting to be involved. We also go over the rules at that FHE such as no poking the babies eyes out, Do not teach the baby to fly and etc. With each child the rules get longer and longer and more detailed. Really, who knew you needed to teach your son not to pull out his baby brothers hair? Or Yes, Babies will always cry when you poke their eye!?!?! SO DON'T DO IT!

Ben was finally home long enough to get the bins down from the attic. So I have baby girl clothes, and baby boy clothes to sort. Sheets, blankets, bottles, pump, monitor, swing, bouncy and bibs galore to get situated. Now I just need to clean it, set up the crib, pack the hospital bag for me and baby and put some clothes away and we are good to go.

A new and interesting part of my nesting this time around includes eating a 6 qt bowl of caramel popcorn all by my self yesterday and having not 1 but 2 bowls of ice cream today. I am pretty sure neither the baby or I need fattening before the big day. Yet, I seem determined to throw out all knowledge of nutritional eating and gorge on what I fancy! Hmmmm. The best side to that is Benson strategically relocated my pregnancy workout DVD to and unknown place a few weeks ago, and the ones I rent from the library do not work on my broken DVD player. So my workouts have downgraded to: getting the mail, going up my stairs, and parking further away from the door when grocery shopping. Not the best combo! I really feel like a run along the beach, but with out my LARGE belly attached.

Ben was so cute when He opened the bin of girl clothes he pulled out a darling white dress with eyelets bordering the bottom, and said "Kim we might need to go to number 5 if this one comes out a boy!". I also got teary eyed looking through the bin of baby girl clothes. My baby girl is now 8 1/2. So many memories. Unlike Ben having been pregnant, and delt with the nausea and sickness I am pretty sure #5 will be a dog we buy, not another child!

Wish us luck!
We're almost there!

And if anyone was wondering, no we have no names, not a short list or a long list. My goal is to have the child named before we leave the hospital! So any good ideas are welcomed!

When he grows a foot or two

2009-12-10T08:57:00.000-08:00

The last several weeks have been very, very exhausting, busy and tiring for me.
Let me just list some of the bigger things I had to accomplish, along with keeping a clean house, laundry, feeding my family 3 times a day, homework, my softball games, field trips, helping at Madisen and Jeddy's classes, play dates, conducting primary, doing sharing time, filling in for primary teachers, and being a mommy.

Madisen Birthday, gifts, favorite meals for breakfast and dinner
End of soccer season team party, get and put together trophies, food, pictures, coaches gifts
halloween, we made costumes this year, carving pumpkins, pumpkin patch etc
Her Party the following week, we made pizza, lemonade, cookies, frosting, and their own party hats.
Thanksgiving with my sister's family and mom. It was a yummy meal, turkey, mashed pot with gravy, stuffing, pink salad, pomegranate salad, sweet potato's, sparkling grape juice, wassail, rolls, green bean casserole (not your usual kind), finished off with 2 apple pie, 1 pumpkin and vanilla ice cream to help it all go down. Needless to say it was a meal to be thankful for, but allot of work. Thank goodness my mom was over pies, and that my sister Britt helped out so much.
Madisen's baptism- in our stake the family is in charge of everything, program printing, finding people, getting pianist, getting clothes etc.
Her baptism luncheon, I made lentil and chicken noodle soup, well My sister and I did. 2 big jelly rolls of Texas sheet cake, veggie platter and fruit platter I had friends bring rolls and bread. set up tables, washing and returning R.S. table clothes
Primary activity, I was in charge of the activity and craft, we made wood blocks that were covered with pretty scrapbook paper and said 'JOY', the little kids painted ornaments. I had to cut and saw 90 3 x 4 in blocks of wood. get all supplies, cut paper to size, cricet punch 100 letters, and bag them for each child
Jeddy's birthday shopping with out him is so hard, so last night at 10pm I finally went out after Ben was done with mutual. shopping for and preparing his favorite meals
His party is this Saturday, homemade invitations, gift bags, menu planning and buying etc.

I give this information because I feel is shows you what my kids have had to endure through. Last week Jeddy was asking me, begging me to play baseball with him. I looked him in the eye and explained "sweetie, mom has 15 table clothes, 6 sheet sets, 12 towel's, to launder, 2 meals of dishes to clean, 3 bathrooms that are in dire need of attention and no one but me to do it. Can you play catch, or T-ball with Benson, maybe today and tonight I can hurry through all this and tomorrow we can play . . .I'm sorry".

Instead of being sad, or complaining or even not understanding, he went out side. I thought he was going to play. I went to the garage started laundry. I heard what I thought was Benson playing in the kitchen sink, so I yelled to him to go play with Jeddy. As I walked in the house I saw cute little Jeddy had pulled up a chair, rolled up his sleeves, and was doing my huge sink full of dishes. He went in the back to drop off his toys. I gave him a big hug. He finished the sink and started the dishwasher all by himself, then went out back to play.

I couldn't help but think what a wonderful boy. I know I cannot take credit for how thoughtful and helpful he is. It is his nature, he is a sweet boy. If this could be taught, this is the one lesson I would teach the young Men in the Church. Never let your wife work harder then you in a day.
I know Jeddy is going to be the husband that is doing the dishes while his wife mops the floor (not watching espn). He is going to be folding the clothes or cleaning the bathroom while she puts the kids in the bath.

I think there is a disconnect that men quit working when they get home from work. Ben I have to say is fabulous with entertaining the kids and keeping them from making messes and bugging me so I can get a meal on the table.

I just have to say I know Jeddy is going to be a very aware and thoughtful guy. I was very impressed that he didn't even come running to say, mommy look what i did. He did it with out praise. He did get a big treat when Benson went down for a nap!!!

Anyway in honor of him on his special day (he is 5), I ask all you readers what is the best quality you think someone should grow up to have? What is your son, husband great at? I am so proud of my boy and I want everyone to feel the love and happiness I feel for him because of his truly wonderful qualities with the boys, men in their lives.

Changes coming!

2009-10-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

We will be changing the name of our blog. I was hoping for something a bit more catchy but this is who we are: the C-bad six. If you want to see some fun videos of a Scavenger Hunt where we surprised the kids with the news, you can see them on Ben's Facebook page.

Madisen's Baptism

2009-10-16T09:22:00.000-07:00

Saturday, November 28, 2009
begins at 10:30 am
LDS Chapel 1975 Chestnut Ave
CARLSBAD , CA 92008

Radical school system

2009-10-14T08:29:00.000-07:00

I am not getting political and picking on either party here. I just cannot believe how radical (left or right) and insane some of our policy is.

A six year old boy joins boy scouts get an awesome utensil, a fork spoon knife combo, so he brings it to school and eats lunch. Some one of their rocker calls it a knife, making it a weapon and thus the boy was suspended for 45 days.

He never threatened anyone or wielded it to anyone, he ate with a cool UTENSIL, and got suspended. How does this happen?

Luckily the school board met over the issue after lots of back lash and support for the six year old 'criminal'. Finally some common sense!

August

2009-10-13T21:49:00.000-07:00

Ben and I ran another tri together. I will tell you I almost peed my pants, and died in the swim, but after that it was fabulous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. It was a hard corps series. We had to wake up early and get on the Marine Corps base and then make our way over to the Navy beach where they house all the LCAC's.

Ben starts in of the first waves, right after the elite athletes. So I have to stand on the beach and watch 7 or so waves each take their turn and go. Meanwhile out of every wave (even the elite and gung ho Marines) a few people have to be rescued by the jet ski personnel. At first I thought it was interesting I have never seen jet ski's, the rescuers are all on kayak or surfboards. But then I started listening to the people around me and put it together.

Apparently this spot or break in the beach in known for its crazy waves. There is no calm little waves. So silly Kim who hates water, salt, being wet etc voluntarily signed up for a tri with a 5 foot surf. Ben and I still debate this detail, he loves water, and is much taller he thinks it was only 3 feet. I know better, it was monstrous, I truly am surprised I finished and survived.

Back on track, after getting killed with waves and tasting nastiness I got over the 'break' and was able to set a pace and move forward. I forgot however to pay attention on the way back in and was pummeled. I get no points for style. But like I said I finished and went into my sweet transition, taking everything off before I even entered the Transition zone. I really excel at the transition times. I can't swim and running and biking I am no better than average.

I was so excited about the bike. It was 45 k, so the longest race distance ever by me. Plus my friend Marie, well her former Marine Pilot husband, lent me his custom Kestrel tri bike. the bike is of more value then Ben's car. So I was scared to ruin it but so excited to enjoy a quality machine. I cut my bike time in half, from the Catalina triathlon. I did train a few more times but it pretty much was the bike. I wish I had ridden the coarse before, I would have pushed it allot harder. I just rode real politely until the turn around and then I booked it. there is never time in my life for a leisurely drive to check out the race coarse.

I was pretty worried about the run, it was hot and my shins were KILLING. I had never been in pain like that. I just pretended they were one of my kids when they are obnoxious. I ignored it, and kept moving. I even picked up my pace the last mile and a half. Ben ran the last yards with me. He literally raced with me. I wasn't made for speeding up after 2 hours of physical exertion. But I indulged him, he came in first again!

IT was so fun. I am really proud of this race. I realize it is nothing amazing no lives were saved but I still feel pretty cool when I wear my T-shirt around!
Too bad the one shot we got I have a dorky look and my eyes are closed. Oh well you can see how awesome my Transition area is. And check out my pimp ride. thanks MIKE!!!!!!!

Soccer has started, 2 practices a week, Madisen on Tuesday, Jeddy on Wednesday. Games for each every sat, starting the 29 of august. Jeddy is so excited to be involved and have his things to do. It is great to see him develop and try and succeed. I am so proud of Madisen, she doesn't know any girls on her new team. She hasn't let that make her shy, well she is shy but she still gets in there. I am so proud that she is coming out of her shell and doing more and more things out of her comfort zone.

A bunny! August was filled with, beach every wed, hikes, pool, primary activity- games and races at the beach, picnics, Karate, and throwing up!. We went to Utah, and came home throwing up, it went thought the family and took us out of commission for a week.

We are all recovered. And that's our summer, it came to an end sept 2.

Highlights of July

2009-10-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

I have such cute kids. I love this picture. Madisen is being her shy little smile darling self. Jeddy is being his must expend energy. Benson is not paying any attention to me and has haagen daz ice cream all over his face. Taken at the Batiquitos Lagoon

lagoon During their pollinator awareness event.
The kids cutting out leaves that thier "catapillars will eat. My kids LOVE crafts. I do also, just not the clean up at the end.

I have never seen Benson hold so still. What a big boy. he was so excited to get face painting, I am so glad he picked a bee and not a flower. Luckily we didnt have to have that conversation with Ben. "Why is my SON wearing a flower".
Probably the biggest event that happened all summer was the kids bikes were 'stolen'. The kids and I go on hikes early tuesday and thurs morning. We go with our good friends the Hommels. Yes even in the summer I wake my kids up and we go on 2 to 3 hour hikes around the volcano. At first it was me pushing Jeddy (40 pounds) and Benson 25 (pounds) in my double stroller (10 pounds) with all our water, snacks and supplies (5 pounds). so I definately got my intended workout . . . .wspecially on inclines.

I was so excited when Jeddy learned to ride his bike. But when he crashed then I was pushing him and his bike. So there were always times of great struggle! But it was great.

So back to the bikes. One day we decided to ditch the strollers and bikes and go up the face of the volcano. Well we did, we enjoyed the view and breeze and went back down. We got to where we put the bikes behind bushes and they were NO WHERE. The kids were crushed! Tears!. Poor Jeddy just mastered a 2 wheel, madisen loved her purple queen amadala (sp?) bike.
I tore off in one direction, and Marie took her kids and went the other. We were goging to catch these meanies! Really we both separeted and stopped sp we could pray with our kids. After a moment alone and a prayer to guide us and comfort the kids we were on the hunt!.

Long story short we spoent 2 hours on foot and car searching all dead end trails.

I brought the kids home and we got cleaned up and moved on with our day. I just decided I need to report it. What can it hurt. So I spent 20 minutes filing a report and giving incredible details and descriptions of the bikes. I hung up and said another prayer to help the person that took our bikes realize how much my kids love and want their bikes. Any way, I called Marie gave her the no update update and hung up. I noticed I had a message on my phone. It was the police officer from the impound station (the last of 4 officers I had just spoken too).
I teared up as he explained on his message that he went out back just to be thourough and found the kids bikes. He was funny be repeated the leangthy description I gave him of my bikes. so he said coem on down and see if they are a match.

I had just put bence down for a nap . . . But we got him up and went. We got our bikes back. Evidently what happened was a jogger thought they had been abandoned inthe trails. so they had the police coem pick them up. Some good samaritan was saving us from our bikes. It was aan emotinal day. I must add Madisen was a little sad that she indeed wasn't getting a new bike now that we found her old one. I am so relieved to have them back.

Slip n slide, we used lots of soap yto really slick the runway down. Madisen loved to try to go backwards. It is cold water so we never lasted too long. Which is better for the grass anyway.
I know I do not need to mention this but Jeddy got bored of the normal run and slide action. So after a while he was spinning, side running, adding leaps and etc. I am happy to report he still has no stiches or broken bones. He has been superglued and sterri striped together on many occassions.
Even Benson got into to all the action. Mostly I would hold both his hands over head head and drag him down. But he had a few runs of his own
fun times for 4th of July. We all took turns on the diving board. Ben powered through severeal slick flips and moves, I did an areal, and front flip. Jeddy tried out front flips, the rest just jumped.
Again with my friend Marie we had our kids make 4th of july shirts. MArie has 2 boys so she was thrilled to help Madisen with her glitter glue and make fireworks on her shirt. I was head crafter for the boy shirts. Jeddy and bence helped and are so proud of their shirts. Jeddy did a fair amount of the sewing and cutting. Bence more or less helped in theory. I love the fourth of July!!!!! LOVE IT. It was so fun we went to pipes in encinitas for breakfast. We met all the guys after their surf session. It was fun we had breakfast then headed fo parades, parties, pool and BBQ parites, then costco to watch the legoland fireworks. We decided to take coast hwy home prettier drive if we have to hit traffic. We stopped at taarack and saw 3 firework shows going off. IT was a great ending to a wonderful holiday. I really should have posted this in its seperate post . . .like 3 months ago. ha ha ha.
a lazy summer morning

Ben was getting tired of his clean cut apperance, so he shaved himself a mohawk. I am sure if we were not goign to the other dentist in the offices house that night it would have stayed longer. there is the proof, we all get a little crazy in the summer.

Fun in June: tadpoles and parks

2009-10-10T23:37:00.000-07:00

Tadpole time! Our kids love the ravine in the back yard. We always go for walks and exploring. In June is when the tadpoles are out. We took 4 or so trips to see them. We brought some back and tried to raise them. we were successful last year. this year benson really did not understand leaving them alone. Between benson and the wilderness in our back yard no tadpoles matured to frogs with our help. Instead we are probably responsible for the demise of many, many creatures. In this spot you have to walk on a log over the pond to get to a few more little pond areas. benson of course did not wait for any assistance. he had no hand holds for half the log walk but he just tore across it. He makes me so nervous. Luckily we all stayed dry, well our shoes were really muddy. And several bug bites. It's all worth it to have such fun adventures.

The kids love when Luke and April and baby Jaren come over. Benson is convincing Luke to let him play with his ipod game thing. Benson was cute he put his arm around Luke's shoulder and watched, then moved in closer, then was holding it with Luke, then he was holding it by himself. He slowly and strategically commandeered Luke's ipod.
Our family tree, Jeddy, Ben, Benson, and Madisen. I did not even attempt to join in all the climbing fun. The big kids were climbing when Dad drove up from work. Then I hear all sorts of yelling from the front. "Mom, hurry . . . .and bring the camera." I was thinking Jeddy caught another lizard or frog. Or Benson was naked water painting. I was wrong. They were having a tree party.
We spent many mid mornings at hidden canyon. Where Jeddy mastered the monkey bars. he and Madisen now go back and forth. And I help Benson go back and forth, back and forth. I love having active kids.

Benson; the ride of our lives.

2009-10-10T23:23:00.001-07:00

This isn't a great picture of Bence, but you can see his great front kick. He did a little tykes karate over the summer. Madisen and Jeddy were the helpers and did it with him. It took him several minutes to get into it. But then he loved it. The middle section of the class they did an obstacle course. Through a tunnel, somersault over the wedge, kicks through hula hoops and etc. that is his favorite part. He whips out his somersault with no needed help.
great stance Benson!
Never a dull moment with Benson. He is always so willing to try anything. He is very similar to evil kanevil (SP). He throws himself off the diving board. With or with out Ben around to catch him. It takes two of us to keep him from drowning.
A typical day at lunch in our house. A naked Hannah Montana, a cowgirl and a cowboy sit up for refueling. Benson never has a dull outfit. He loves all Madisen's girl dress up and shoes. He even likes to paint his nails all by himself when I assume he is napping. I really should get a video baby monitor for this kid. He has learned to shut his door and creep into my bathroom. When I see his door open I know he is up to something.
Today he was wearing a full outfit of boy clothes, so to spice it up he made a 'wig' of black hair he went around with all day. Who knew a dish towel could be so useful!?!? These are the dress ups we'd prefer him to wear. Ben is getting pretty tired of coming home to a pretty princess with sparkly headbands.
We chopped his hair off! Shaved his head with the number 3 guard. Here he is climbing at the playground. Benson has successfully killed his front tooth. To many hard tumbles. He is my one child that should be wrapped with bubble wrap. He does not know any fear or limitations.

He grows by leaps and bounds, It's Jeddy

2009-10-10T23:00:00.000-07:00

What a stud, he can ride a 2 wheel bike now. Our family went on a bike ride to the basketball court. When there Jeddy just wanted to try Madisen's bike. He tried and tried, and in just a few minutes he was riding. He rode Madisen's bike home!!! he is a quick study. He is so proud of himself.

His first Soccer team, the purple rainbows. He is on a indoor soccer league with 2 buddies from church. He had a great time and was so into it. He ran the whole time. Then, he was kicked in the head with the ball. He got knocked, it was a shiner. I couldn't get him to go back in after half time, and the next game, a week later I couldn't get him to go in without many, many tears.

I am glad to say we have recovered. he scored 2 goals in his AYSO game this morning.
Look at that smile, He loves being busy, and running around. Jeddy is the description of BOY.

This haircut only last a week. Until I could sit him down again and actually finish the job! He is trying to learn how to read. he was so good and sounding out all sorts of words over the summer. We need to get it back into our school schedule routine. I love that he tries and tries, he is not afraid to fail.

Jeddy has been taking Karate for 7 months. he really is good, and enjoys it a lot. We finally were able to make a belt advancement. he really wanted to skip the orange belt and advance to the purple belt. He really took it serious. I was so proud of him. Luke and April came to share the event with him.

Here he is with his instructor Mrs Leah. He is getting his Orange belt. Now check out the sour face below. He is with his best buddy Chase, and he is very grumpy.He did get over it, and works a lot harder. I think it was a great learning experience for him. Now he knows what it takes to advance, and what he needs to do. We are so proud of him. His teacher has complimented him several times on how much more into it he is now. He takes it much more seriously now.

IT is fun having Jeddy involved in his own activities, and getting to see him grow and develop. Even with the bumps and sour attitudes along the way! I have to say he is 90 % fun and energy, and 10 % frustration!

Big events for Madisen

2009-10-10T22:44:00.000-07:00

It is early morning, the house is quiet, the boys are sleeping and Madisen is READING. we were really active and busy all summer but some how our little girl found time to read a book(S) every day. I started keeping record and we wrote all the titles and added up the pages in her journal. Guess how many pages she read. Let me remind you she is 7. Some books she read: Narnia chronicles, Beverly Cleary, any American girl book she could find, and many Boxcar children books. I will let you ponder on your guess and give the answer later.
We were grinding wheat to make some yummy bread. Madisen took a turn and the next thing she knew she had blood running out her mouth, and found a new hole. the sweet girl knocked her loose #E tooth out cranking the handle. She was so excited, she has lost so many teeth in shortest time!
I finally gave in! She got her haircut. We all hung out in the back yard and I went through the family. Madisen was first, then the boys. She donated her hair to the ravine, for birds nest :-)

So here it is Our speed reader read more then 1,000 pages. She even read more then 10,000 pages. yes I meant 4 zeros. She read a grand total of 11,270 pages. And we only counted chapter books!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Way to go our sweet little book worm.

endless days of summer

2009-10-10T17:38:00.001-07:00

A goofy Madisen and serious Jeddy posing in front of a peacock. Ben's family came to town to go to Disneyland they all spent a few days there. The grandparents drove Anne, Katie and Natalie out so they could enjoy Disneyland with Natalie (she went as a toddler so she needed to experience it again). They spent a few days with us and one day we went on a walk and tour of Leo Carrillo ranch. It is a famous old movie stars house, well large estate with many buildings, and tons of PEACOCKS.
Benson absolutely adores Aunt Katie, here he is showing us a peacock. He would hear their yelps and get so excited. "Mom, I hear them" . . .he is so cute.

the McEvoy crew at Luke, April and Jarens in Escondido. We had fun swimming, playing in the sand. The most exciting event was the ferocious volley ball tournament. All the little kids ran after the loose balls. Jeddy tried so hard to hit the ball over the net. Which he did accomplish. He never gives up!
Yummy cool whip treat at the beach with our friends. And the best part when they get messy you send them off to play in the water.
Luckily we tried out a new beach spot. A nudest beach.. Benson was right at home. He loved it. Yeah just kidding, he just wouldn't stay dressed. Our friends brought a potty seat for their girls in training. And Bence constantly was trying it out. I am so glad he never had to #2.
What silly kids, they must watch too much Adam Sandler, they are being Watermelon heads.

Cliffnotes: Kim McEvoy

2009-05-01T23:19:00.000-07:00

I was asked to write a brief Biography of my self. I realized how cool I am and it was very challenging to make it brief. Thought I would share. Since the work was already done, and I have not posted in MONTHS. Hope you enjoy. Picture is madisen wishing she could go to school with Ben.

I was born in Mesa Arizona, during my fathers medical residency. I was fourth in the line up. As a 2 year old I decided to help my parents move shelves and crushed my right hand between 2 cinder blocks. Severely breaking 3 fingers. My mom suffered through moldy cast after moldy cast the whole summer of swimming. I had to have corrective surgery and therapy to gain more function for my fingers in high school.

I did all my schooling (Elementary through bachelors) in Orem, minus a few zoology and biology classes at BYU. I won yearly in reflections and city programs for my poetry and artwork. I played all sports and competed in gymnastics and softball. Picture is Benson painting, in shades and heels.

My first job was raising and breeding my Golden retriever, Missy. I love dogs and wa always was watching neighbors Dogs. I started a lawn mowing business at 13 years old, my parents were my best clients, so they got a discounted rate. They called it chores, I called it a discount. I made business cards, fliers and receipts and had quite the clientele (4 neighbors). picture is Madisen 2 years and Ben mowing our front lawn in Virginia.

I worked through high school and college for a dear family friend running their scale house and helping at the gravel pit. The foreman loved to use me to retrieve screws, bolts and filters in places only my tiny hands could fit. One day I had to suspended my self in a diesel fuel to retrieve a wrench, needless to say I smelled.

I quit that job to travel the summer of 99', I was done with lame boys and taking a sabbatical from relationships, dating, and work. The week before fall semester began I started on my mission papers. The next weekend a cute guy named Ben broke my thumb playing NO TACKLE football. He tackled me. I can hardly blame him it truly was the only way to prevent me from scoring. Since my medical bills were covered we agreed he owed me dinner. We went rope swinging into Provo river, golfing and then to dinner and milk shakes at Stewart's.

6 months later we were married. We had 4 more semesters before we both graduated from college. Madisen surprised us and was born 16 months after we were married. The 'plan' was to start having kids the 2^nd year of dental school, or 3 ½ years after getting married. So we went on to plan B. I was able to finish my degree and walked with Madisen to get my diploma, in Behavioral Science. I thought it was perfect since she was my study partner. Picture: Graduation from MCV, shown with his champion football team buddies, and Jeddy 18 mo.

In Aug 2002 we moved to Richmond, Virginia for dental school. Shortly after that I got a job at the mission home as an employee of the church. I worked there and other odd jobs all through school. I made food for transfers and helped serve and clean up. One of our families favorite perks was we often got leftovers . . .a great blessing for us. Picture: Madisen and Jeddy visitng Grandpa

While I was pregnant with Jeddy all our appliances broke, some several times. And I spent 2 months with out a kitchen floor. Jeddy was born Dec of 2004, he is named Matthew Jeddy for my Father. Everyday he reminds me of and gives me bits and pieces of my father.

Upon graduation we moved 4 times until, we got it right and ended up in Carlsbad. We moved to California for a week, then in Utah for 3 months next was Las Vegas for 6 months. Just long enough to unpack and have baby Benson! We have love Carlsbad. I am a girl scout asst troop leader for Madisen. The boys and I go hiking, to Story time, Karate, picnic at the park, puppet show and beach weekly. We keep our selves busy with errands, chores and sports. I enjoy cooking, especially finding entrees at restaurants I love and making them at home.

I have been playing in a softball league on Tuesday nights, I am not good but I love softball. I just signed up to do the triathlon on Camp Pendleton in Aug. A childhood goal of mine is to climb mt. Kilimanjaro. Ben and I wanted to do it for our 10 year anniversary, but we still have loans to pay off. Now with Ben and his training we would love to climb the Mt and do free clinic for the people of Tanzania. But that is a few years away.

I am in the primary presidency and I love it. It is an opportunity for great growth for me. I am terrified to conduct primary, I seriously would rather talk in sacrament meeting. Sharing time is fun, you get to play and color, conducting is to serious.

They're Back!

2009-02-03T15:14:00.000-08:00

Girl Scout Cookies!!!!!

If want some Madisen will be glad to sell you some.

Cookies are $4.00 a box. Her troop is trying to raise money for the homeless of San Diego and field trips.

Cookies will be delivered March 9th

0 trans fat on all cookies, thin mints raise money for the troops overseas, Our peanut distribution and manufacturer are safe. Any questons comment or call and I will get back to you.

Thin Thin Mints: The most enduring and universally familiar Girl Scout cookie. These round, mint-flavored cookies covered with dark chocolate perennially sell the most boxes of any cookie. Thin Mints have never changed their name. Little Brownie Bakers and ABC Bakers both make Thin Mints.

Do-Si-Dos® or Peanut Butter Sandwich: A sandwich cookie. The round, bumpy perforated oatmeal cookie top and bottom surrounds a peanut butter-flavored layer inside. Do-Si-Dos® (formerly Gauchos) are baked by Little Brownie Bakers. ABC Bakers calls them Peanut Butter Sandwiches.

Trefoils or Shortbread: These shortbread cookies are shaped like the Girl Scout Trefoil design. Scot Teas were a similar, lighter sugar cookie made by the now defunct Burry. These cookies come in a blue box. Little Brownie Bakers calls them Trefoils; ABC Bakers call them Shortbread.

Tagalongs® : These are round cookies with a layer of peanut butter on top, and covered in chocolate. These cookies come in a red box.

Samoas® : These are round doughnut-shaped cookies about two inches in diameter with a hole in the center, covered in caramel and toasted coconut, and then striped with chocolate. Samoas® are made by Little Brownie Bakers.

Lemon Chalet Cremes™: Featuring a design of Our Chalet in Switzerland, a beloved Girl Scout World Center, this sandwich cookie has a touch of cinnamon-ginger spice that evokes the warmth of a fireside chat on a snowy evening; they are made by Little Brownie Bakers.

Sugar Free Chocolate Chips: With Sugar Free Chocolate Chip Cookies, those who need or prefer sugar free products have a new way to support Girl Scouting — and a scrumptious new snack at bedtime, or any time! They are made by Little Brownie Bakers.

Dulce de Leche: New for 2009, and inspired by the classic confections of Latin America, these sweet, indulgent cookies are rich with milk caramel chips and stripes. They come in a turquoise box, and are made by Little Brownie Bakers.

Nutrition Facts for all Cookies

My thoughts on 1:00 Chruch

2009-01-21T21:21:00.000-08:00

When we get home from our 3 hour block of church at 4:20pm do we:

put him down for a nap and stay up late with him until he gets tired for bed?
Do we keep him up as long as possible then put him down for bed really early and pray and fast that he sleeps until at least 5:00 am.
Miss Church entirely for 1 year and come back when church starts at a decent hour like 9 or 11 am.

So far neither of the first 2 options are working really well. Below is Benson it is approx 5:07:45 pm. Just for the record he woke up at 7:34. That is just in time to take part in the big kids bedtime routine. Ben fell asleep at 8:15. And I was up with Benson until midnight reading and trying to keep my self awake so he wasn't awake and loose in the house. Finally just before midnight I put him down, after minimal whimpering he fell asleep. And slept until 6:20.
Notice how charming and happy my son is NOT. This is monday before lunch and he was all tears and upset. It is hard to hear the yelling he is giving the pole and me in the first picture from the blog. Just trust me it was testign my patience. So I ignored him! I wrote in my planner, when he was not looking I found him on the climbing apparatus. He smiled when he saw me. And I let him know I saw it. It would be one thing if this was his only tear stained meltdown of the day . . . . it was one of MANY all wonderul happy day long. Meltdown Mondays are all too frequent now! Why do the terrible two's have to coincide with 1:00 church.

Any recommendations?

fall . . . .we miss you!

2009-01-21T18:35:00.000-08:00

This post has two purposes. the first and least important is to sing praises to the season of Fall. The second and greatest reason is to share some of the cutest pictures of my kids. Seriously, look at the first picture. Benson has the cutest smile poking out from a pile of fall leaves. Not only is it beautiful that these leaves have so many colors but they bring so much joy to rake, play, hide and all around play in.
Madisen and Jeddy love to go up in their tree. It is a rite of passage for them. A coming of age when they can get themselves up in the tree by themselves. Well Jeddy uses a chair . . . but he puts it there himself. They sit up their forever pretending and playing. I would absolutely love this if it was in our back yard. It now sits in our front yard over the sidewalk. Not the best place to fall out of a tree. I love 'toys' and entertainment that is simple and makes the kids work for it. Simple meaning it does not require 12 hours of assembly, 4 batteries, or require adult supervision. They have to make the sounds and create their own setting; it is not dictated. Not that I am against supervising my kids. But with 3 mess makers I need to be supervising as I fold, or wipe, or clean.

I can't help looking at these pictures and think of My Heavenly Father and his beautiful creations. One thing I miss about Virginia, and Utah also is their fall season. I miss driving through the rolling hills and Mountains during the changing of the leaves. I miss Bridal Veil Falls' water crushing down the rocks as red leaves float in the wind. I miss driving through the streets and churning up the leaves in the gutter. I miss making huge elaborate mazes in the leaves that covered our front lawn. In our sunny California Paradise we have Fall in January and it rakes into a 50 gallon trash can. Be careful not to miss it before all the leaves drop.

I laugh to see the small size of our leaf pile. If it were in Virginia several things wouldl be different. Depending on the year the kids would not be allowed in the leaves because we had several copperhead snakes living in our front yard. The second one we found I killed with my trusty leaf blower. Also the leaves would be a darker maroon color and the pile would take in the entire yard, and it would be a paramount job to rake and bag over several months. I have to admit fall in California is alot less taxing . . .we don't even own a rake. We left it in Virginia . . .with Fall.
Benson hates being left out of the tree fun. So a few times we sit him up there. He just sits and squeals with excitement. Who knew sitting in a tree was so exciting.

It was a White christmas for us.

2009-01-02T21:43:00.001-08:00

Our sweet boy Jeddy, he is always willing and eager to help. He loves to get involved and be doing things. So he helped Dad and Grandpa shovel the huge driveway. They can park like 12 cars at least. Jeddy was a big help!

Sled rides with the Johnson's. In an open field in the middle of Orem, Utah Trin's Uncle Keith pulled the kids in a snowshoe sled behind his Subaru. They have a big beautiful Dog named Ronan, and he would chase the car and the sled. He even was biting Ben when he went with Jeddy and Mikey . . .that led to their demise and the sled tipped over. Jeddy didn't like that at all. After he 'cooled off' and warmed up in the van he went on the sled a few more times.
of coarse my little helper Jeddy gets us all hot cocoa . . . it is a must when one has so much play and rompus in the snow.
Benson is all smiles playing in my old playhouse. It was so hard to get him to wear gloves or a hat or even a coat. but once he went outside a few times and realized we were all bundled and that it is colder then what he is use too . .he was SO MUCH MORE cooperative.

I am still trying to get pics of Madisen and trinity sledding. They went off by themselves and just had a blast. It was a new experience for the kids. They all decided we can never move to UTAH it is too COLD.

Smoking in the New Year

2009-01-02T21:23:00.000-08:00

Has anyone gotten themselves in a bind and had to buy something expensive to use once.
For example has any one tried to move all their belongings from a storage unit in California to Las Vegas and forgot to bring the keys for the padlock? So then you have to buy bolt cutters. Bolt cutters? Seriously what am I going to do with huge bolt cutters. Ben and I are not really into petty theft so they have just gathered dust for years.

One reason I love real Christmas trees is I love cuttign them down and burning them.
It is tradition for us to burn our Trees and have cozy game or story time in front of the fireplace.

So this year I took my awesome bolt cutters to our douglas fir and went to town. It melted through the branches so smoothly. I was even able to cut 2 in thick branches with ease. Good thing we are getting our use out of our 'useless' bolt cutters. Any one have a tree they need to get rid of?

The kids had such a great time. They kept Ben busy loading the fire with branches. It smelled so good. We played old Maid, cranium, and chinese checkers. Listend to our ipod and ate yummy homemade popcorn. It was a fun night.

It's beginning to look allot like Christmas

2008-12-02T22:31:00.000-08:00

We spent tonight buying our tree and decorating it.
We were sad to learn that all the tree farms, and cut your own tree down spots burned down in California. So our only option was to go down the street to a pre-cut lot and buy one that came from Oregon this morning.

Benson was really loving it. He was talking up a storm. I do not quite know what he said but I managed: big tree, wow, poke me, tree, tree, Christmas tree, big tree, baby tree. Jeddy at first said he wanted a Benson size tree. So I took him over to the Benson size tree's. It took about 2.5 seconds for him to be completely disappointed and run back to the 10 foot section of $100.00 trees.

Meanwhile Dad and Madisen found the tree for us (not in the $100.00 section). Dad drilled a hole and got it all set up in the stand while I made dinner. After dinner me and the kids listened to all our favorite Christmas songs and decorated the tree.

You might not know this but I am VERY particular about the lighting on my trees. I always redo what the kids or Ben do. I Start at the bottom and take every strand into the trunk wrap around the branch on my way out then back into the trunk and out etc etc. I was methodically trying to teach my kids to do this. I finally just came to the proper conclusion that they are not old enough to manage the physicalness or to CARE. I also came to a new great awareness that it is our family Christmas tree, not my decoration or craft. So, after coming to close to tears a couple times I just let go and gave them their stands and free reign of the tree.

And you know what it looks great! The kids posed with their favorite ornaments and took their own "progress report" pictures. Benson just posed, over and over. He loved to decorate himself. He would wrap himself in the strand we were working with and try to put ornaments on like earrings. What a fun little boy.

I am glad I am able to learn from my wonderful children. From Benson I learned that several of my ornaments are indeed breakable, he loves the sound of clinking glass. He is perfecting my patience. Jeddy taught me that putting light on a tree is dumb because you cant jump rope with the light strands. My second born also taught me size matters. I showed them my dream tree (noble fur 12 foot for 150$) he was so confused on why I wanted a skinny tree you could see through. He likes his trees like he likes Santa Clause - thick. Madisen taught me achieving perfection is not creating memories, she also taught me the cheapest tackiest ornaments can bring a tear to your eye and a swell to your chest.

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is going through all our ornaments. Madisen asks about each one now and knows that almost all have a story and a history. Family trips, vacations, mile stones, gifts, family and friend parties, R. S. activities, loved ones here and gone and painting our own with the McEvoy girls are all some of the great flashes of memories that come back to me each year as we hang the ornaments.

I love Christmas more and more every year I get to experience it with my kids.

Kim

That's What She Said

2008-11-17T14:27:00.000-08:00

I know the suspense has been killing every one. . . .but finally here it is my version of the tri.
sorry this is long, I bolded pertinent information for skim readers.

Many of my readers are moms that know training with three small kids is challenging if not impossible. At least with this race I wasn't still nursing a baby. My swim training was 4 trips to the Carlsbad swim complex in October. Which is a beautiful pool with crystal clear water. My bike training consisted of 8 or so bike rides since the summer. Most were with the kids on their scooters and only 5 miles. Running training consisted of hikes with both boys in the double jogger in Calavera hills trails most Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

That bring us to race day eve. I put on my wet suit for the second time in my entire life. I again jumped into a clean pool and did a few lengths of the pool. It has been several months since i have been in the ocean (wet to my knees) and longer then that since I actually got really wet in the ocean. At this point I made a big realization, I had forgotten to pack my race shoes. Oops! So I searched everywhere on the island (about 9 different stores). The best I could find was men's shoes that were a full size to big. We had a yummy pasta dinner and tried to get a great nights sleep. That plan was foiled by Benson. He did not want to sleep in a hotel room with everyone else. He wanted to explore and party.

It was great that the race didn't start until 9:00 am.

One we had more wiggle room in our schedule to squeeze in actual sleep.
We could have slept in, minus the fact we have 3 kids, so that is never an option.
It gave us plenty of time to get breakfast, set up our transition zones and get in the zone.
it was ample time to get on my wet suit. for those of you that have not ever worn a wet suit. It is similar to removing a wet swimsuit but severely magnified because it it thick non pliable material and it covers your entire body.
Plenty of time to pack the stroller with everything Gma would need to keep all 3 crazies entertained during the race.

I met a very nice girl at my transition spot. She was just across the A-frame. She gave me lots of pointers and advice. Once I was all set up and had my wet suit on I went over to the beach to find Ben and await my heat. Ben started 3 minutes before me. I wished it was the other way around, because he would have lapped me and I would have probably felt a bit more calm in the water knowing he was behind me.

Well the whistle blew and Ben was off . . .I waved my last wave and blew kisses and lined up on the beach. My whistle blew . . . I jumped in the water and was off. Then I realized I never put my goggles on my eyes. So I stood back up and did that. I then got back in the heat of the race. It didn't take me long to realize I was not swimming a crystal clear, clean pool . I was quickly reminded of why I do not go in the ocean often.

I do not enjoy being surrounded by cold water.
I get really grossed out with the whole wild life thing, especially that you can't see them.
I am very uncomfortable with not being able to touch the ground or even a ledge.
I really, really do not like dirty water in my mouth.
I really do not like salt water in my mouth or hair.

On the bright side after swallowing a bunch of yucky water I flipped on my back and enjoyed the sun and the flags on the boats masts. Every time I bobbed my head up a race staffer on a kayak asked if I needed any help. "Swimmer are you Ok, do you need assistance"? If I got a dollar for every time I heard that it would have paid for the race entry. I never felt like I was going to drowned. I sure did realize, not that I didn't before, I really do not like swimming in the ocean. But, I did my 1/2 mile swim, and in 11 minutes quicker then my 4 times at the pool.

I had a great start to my transition. I had my cap, goggles and wet suit down to the hip before I got to the transition area. I was very disoriented and had no balance. So it ended being a long set. I tried to focus and get a ton of clean water in my system. I got both sets of socks and blister band-aids on, laced up my big shoes as tight as i could . . . and I was off for the bike 15K. It was allot smoother getting out of the water and on a bike then I thought it would be. The bike course was basically 3 loops, so My first 2 loops over lapped with Ben and we waved and called to each other. My last 2 over lapped with a friend from our ward that also did the Tri.

I think one of the most amazing things I have done, is not necessarily the race but that I opened a sealed gator aid bottle while keeping my pace on the bike race. I kept trying to squeeze out the juice and it wouldn't come. I took of the cap and tore of the paper seal. Replaced the cap and downed the liquid goodness. That I tell you is mom skills.

On the 3 loops it is 3 times going straight up hill then 3 going down and level road. The third up hill was hard because I was tired and I kept going into lower gears earlier and earlier. I coasted the entire way down to conserve energy for the run. My hair elastic broke as I took my helmet off, dang it! So I ran with my nasty salt water hair flopping every where. The kids and grandma were at this transition. It was so great to see them, they were all cheering for me. I gave everyone five as I ran past.

I wasn't worried about the running, I know I can run. It was a beautiful run along the harbor and up the mountain to a look out point, back down into town again up to the highest point and then down hill a straight shot to the finish line. here was the test of my shoes. I wore some new shoes and got nasty blisters a week before the race. So I had been nursing blisters and still had open wounds on the backs of my heels. I put real sticky band-aid on my heels. So they would last through the swim. And I stuffed the toes of my big man shoes with cotton balls and wore both pairs of running socks. They worked like a charm. It is probably the most comfortable I have been while running.

I admit I walked up the last hill, but not until I was half way up. And I passed people even walking. It was a relief to turn the corner and see that a 1/2 mile away was the finish line. I could see the kids down near the end. Again they cheered me on and the announcers say your name as you cross the finish line. I have never had that happen.

So there you have it, I am officially a tri-athlete. I can not brag too much considering it was a sprint and I was pretty sore the next 2 days. I was so glad my shoes worked out. After the race we enjoyed fresh fruit and water, then checked out of our hotel and hit the pool and hot tub. link to see some sweet shots of the action. thanks for reading.

NO	FN	LN	SWIM	BIKE	T2	RUN	TIME
401	Kim	Mcevoy	19:32	50:54	0:54	32:21	1:49:39

IF you are really interested in more results here is the link and this is a search able results page

A big thank you to grandma McEvoy, we couldn't have done it with out her help. She is so great to fly out her to be with us . . . to be our personal babysitter. The kids always love when grandma comes to town. Thanks Karen.

The Catalina Triathlon

2008-11-09T20:52:00.000-08:00

The whole gang, including my mom, left Newport Beach for Catalina Island on Friday. We went to bed early that night so we could get plenty of sleep for our first Triathlon. Okay, we didn't shatter any records, we didn't turn the heads of any road bike or energy bar sponsors. But we started and completed our first triathlon. What an awesome experience for both Kim and I.

My mom came into town to watch the kids while we raced. Before anyone is too impressed, this was a sprint Tri, meaning, we are nowhere near an iron man, or a half iron man, or even Olympic man. We are just mini man triathletes. It was a half mile swim in the ocean around the pier. Next was a 10 mile bike ride up a scenic canyon and around the port town of Avalon. The last leg was an amazing run along the coast, up to a beautiful lookout point, and back to town.

We couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. It was already sunny and around 70 degrees by 9 am, the start time. The water was about 65 degrees, I didn't even need a wetsuit. My favorite part was the swim. The main reason was that neither of us was shark food, but it was also very refreshing. But mainly, before you start your first race, you are unsure if you even belong with what appears to be a lot of highly qualified triathletes. After I actually completed the swim, and actually caught up to people in the heat in front of me, I felt like I could hang and I belonged. (After the race I realized that your main competition is yourself. I haven't done many races, so this was a bit of revelation.) Then the bike part was very nice. I have trained on a mountain bike and got a road bike 2 nights before the race, so I was amazed at how much easier it was to keep a good pace. My least favorite of the 3 is the run, so I was happy that the scenery was able to make up for my weakness in speed. I cramped in the beginning of the run, but kept my goal to not ever stop running, until the finish line.

It was a really amazing experience, I cannot wait to do it next year. My time was 1:19:39.7. There were 95 people that I need to figure out how to beat next year(mainly myself), and my competitive juices are flowing freely. What a great experience it was. If anyone is even remotely interested in doing this with us next year, let us know, we will be there. I will let Kim post her story when she can, but it was a very fulfilling thing for us to train together and both complete this challenge. She was awesome. It was really great to have my children and mom there cheering us on. At the end of the day on the Ferry back home we got to witness one of the prettiest sunsets ever. What a great adventure.

If you want to see more action pics, here is the site. we are number's 400 and 401.

Passing of Prop 8

2008-11-05T22:48:00.000-08:00

I don't think the fight to protect our families is over by any means, but we feel so relieved that a major battle was won. Neither Kim nor I have a history of being very active politically, and judging by the experience, neither one of us has much of a future in it. It has not been what either of us would call "fun". But we have been grateful to find that when something is right, even though it is not always comfortable or popular, a greater energy pushes you to stretch past what you may want to do.

To those who may be on the fence on this issue, you may criticize and question us all you want. But please know that I would rather that my 6 year old daughter, and my 3 year old and 20 month old sons not get called the things my wife and I have been called over the last few weeks. This is why we lent our support. My hope for their future is that they will never call someone a derogatory term because of their sexual orientation. They will also be taught to love others even if we disagree with their choices. (Important to note here is that illegal behavior, anger, hatred, derogatory speech and violence has been almost exclusively on the part of those who have opposed prop 8. Are you still wondering what a prophet foresees when he says calamities await us if we allow the disintegration of the family? My fear is that this was just a sneak peak into the future.) But my wife and I will always stand up and listen to vile and hateful accusations, and be cursed at, if it means our children don't have to be. As parents of children who are much more important than the perverse and flagitious themes of the day, we feel our duty is to them first. Maybe I am on a soap box and I know I get a bit passionate about things sometimes, but I am driven by the idea that all it takes for evil to prevail, is for good men and women to stand idly by. I would rather err on the other side.

There have been strong emotions on both sides of this battle, and it has required the participation of countless volunteers. For the first time in my adult life, I feel proud to be a Californ..............Oh wait, never mind that one has been used before. Anyway, in all seriousness, I feel like my fellow Californians stepped up and voted morally on a moral issue. Whoohoo! We are one household of many who are a extremely grateful for the answer to our prayers. Thank you to so many of you who prayed, fasted, voted, went viral, blogged, waved signs, got out of your comfort zones, knocked on doors, put up signs, donated, and put up with forwarded emails. We heard that people in every single state but Vermont donated to the Yes on 8 side. From our little family, Thank you.

Phew!

2008-10-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

Here is an email I just received from the governor.

Thank you for writing to urge a veto of AB 2567.  I appreciate your
active participation in the democratic process, and I value your
suggestions on how government can better serve the people of California.

I am pleased to inform you that I vetoed this bill after extensive
consideration and thorough deliberation of arguments from both
supporters and opponents of this issue.  The public impact of
Harvey Milk's efforts should continue to be recognized at the
local level by those who were most impacted by his contributions. 
My veto message for this legislation may be found on the Official
California Legislative Information website: www.leginfo.ca.gov.

Again, I appreciate hearing your opinion on legislation that
affects the future of our great state.  Taking the time to
communicate your views and offer suggestions is essential
to good citizenship and good government.

Sincerely,


Arnold Schwarzenegger

For those of you that do not know what this is about. Harvey Milk was a Homosexual and an activist for his rights He won elections and was mayor of SF (i think). Anyway gay rights people have been fighting for May 22nd to be Harvey Milk day. So on that day Kids will be taught all about him, homosexual lifestyles and activities.

I have nothing against gay people. I think it is a sin but it is their choice and like other sins I can see the person not the sin. But lets get real here. Lets have every activist group submit a report on why their leader should have a dedicated day to honor them. then lets pick from, PETA, Sierra Club, Indians for Casinos, and gay rights to see which one gets it. I think it is ridiculous to single out one activist/interest group. And if this passes then I want a straight day, where we celebrate heterosexual activities.

the fuss is over (for now) and luckily the Govenator vetoed it.

Kim

agree or disagree, but this is my stance

2008-10-05T21:38:00.001-07:00

It has been a little while since I have put any time into the blog. After a very inspiring General Conference, I am repenting and renewing my energy to blog. I know how important it is to keep my family in the loop even though they have defected the mother country for the desert oasis. Yes, we Californians love being challenged about our beliefs on a semi regular basis. Unlike Utah, we actually have to overthrow our liberal judges so we can keep the right to call marriage....um....marriage. I know, call us crazy, cuz, well.... you should.

On a side note, I have heard that the Reptiles in Australia are fighting to be named Marsupials. It's a bit of a PR stunt, but Marsupials are so much more popular, they feel like it would help overhaul their less than ideal image. Also, orange is fighting to change its name to blue. It is a bit strange, but you know how it is. I mean, when was the last time you heard someone say their favorite color was orange. They've been down long enough. Time to fight back.

A telling story. We ate dinner at some friends of ours tonight. My buddy, Jason, was telling us that his 6 year old was asking about why he was walking around neighborhoods (for prop 8). Kim and I have had these conversations on how much information our own 6 year old needs to hear right now. So Jason decided to tell him. Here was the conversation.

Jason: "Well, son, some people think that Daddies should be able to be married to other Daddies..."
Son: "Yeah right, real funny, Dad!" And then realizing he was wasting his time talking to a dad who was obviously just completely off his rocker, he ran off to play.

We then had a conversation about how it used to be easy to just follow a moral code, do what you knew was right, and not too many people had too hard of a time with it. Now, you have to be willing to seem intolerant, in order to stand for a moral issue. Those who read this blog, should know, if they don't already, that I believe in a Supreme Being who loves and is willing to forgive any person who has ever made a mistake. The price has been paid for every single one, no matter how severe. I feel that it is harder to be more tolerant than that. I know my Supreme Being isn't nearly as trendy as the one who doesn't care what our choices or are actions are, but I still think mine is pretty good. I've made my fair share of mistakes, and I know I have to improve and strive to live my life in more of a way that would please him. But the intolerant view in my mind is to say that I can not have the freedom of religion or speech to believe or share my view. This issue of marriage, and it is a moral issue, will have unforeseen, destructive consequences, if it is not fought for.

So, with that, I am taking a stance, and anyone in the world (there are only 3 readers of this blog so I realize this doesn't make me that brave) can know I have one. Excuse me for my sarcasm here, but in some ways I feel like I did with my daughters homework the other day. She asked me what 8 times 3 was. I told her to count it up and see what she gets. She then said 27. I tell her she should count again, and she tells me she did and it is still 27. After that, trying to convince her it is actually 24 was almost impossible. I certainly couldn't argue with her, she wasn't going to take my word for it until she had proof. I was just an idiot, until she figured it out on her own.

The time has come. I don't usually use this blog for much outside of family pictures and posts. But I want it to be clear where I stand on what I think is a very important, albeit, in many ways asinine (especially if you live anywhere other than Massachusetts's, San Francisco or Hollywood) issue. I believe marriage is between a Man and Woman. Call me crazy, and intolerant, but I DO.

Editor's note; I also believe that killing, bearing false witness, stealing, worhipping false idols, dishonoring father and mother, taking the name of Deity in vain, coveting, overspending by the people and their government(that is one of them right), and all the other 10 commandments that I can't remember right now should stay as thou shalt not's. If this also appears intolerant, I take full responsibility.

The Bates Nut Farm

2008-10-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

Madisen and Dad had a nice 1st grade field trip. I haven't been on a field trip for school in about 15 years. It was a bit warm but the day was full. We had a fun hay ride, straw maze, lecture on gourds and their famous cousins. Madisen even picked out her own pumpkin at the end of the day. Great fun.

The Dark Knight (2008) New Trailer #4 HD

2008-08-29T07:49:00.000-07:00

Randomness in August

2008-08-27T21:48:00.001-07:00

Our gangster Jeddy! He has the perfect do not mess with me lips and face. Jeddy's Uncle Matt and Sarah came to visit. Matt outfitted Jeddy with this new look.
I am glad we do not live in Vegas anymore. I wouldn't be comfortable around town with him wearign this there.

Benson is so happily getting his first hair cut. He was growing too close to a mullet. We had to do what was right for the American people. We held him down and shaved it off.

I knew exactly what Jeddy was up too. He kept his eyes on me the entire walk into the kitchen. Got his 'surf board'. Came back into the living room keeping a close watch on me. And proceeded to the stairs. I listened to him as he sat at the top. He was talking to Benson down below. You better move this is going to be fun. yet before he went he moved down a step or two. After the first run down the stairs it was over.

Benson was not going to stand by and calmly watch Jeddy have all the fun. this is when i chimed in. I figured it was better for me to injure Benson on our stair surfing the Jeddy. so we doubled up and went for it. He loved it. We had a bunch of fun that afternoon. We went feet first, head first, on our bellies, on parents backs, and learned some great techniques. I was a little scared when Ben came home and wondered why all the pillows were at the bottom of the stairs. I wasn't sure if I was going to get in trouble for being dangerous with the boys. I wouldn't let Jeddy tell Ben what we did, I made him show him. So then We got Ben all involved. he had issues keeping his long legs inside the width of the stairs. but once he passed that challenge Benson picked him as his favorite stair surfing partner.

To any of my friends that are new to parenting or just want to actually sleep in and get a sound night rest. Look forward to this in the morning.

This was all Benson, 3 boxes of cereal. I full box of honey bunches of oats, and 2 half boxes of golden grahams and kix. I didnt even show the sink and kitchen pictures. I wasn't aware that Ben got Benson out of his crib, he said he told me and then left for work. well I must have been tired because I slept right through it. I only woke up when I heard the door close. Yes our front door. Luckily Benson was distracted by now with naked Barbie dolls and Madisen convinced Jeddy to shut the door. Madisen had turned into a Zombie in front of the TV. She gave this insightful advice after Jeddy had interrogated the person, and shut and reopened the door several times.

Luckily I was coming too and came down the stairs, I cant even remember who came over. I think it was a friend. the great thing is We talk about this issue ALL THE TIME. Seriously the one time you sleep in, all craziness happens. The older kids destroyed their room and the living room, Madisen had the TV on and Benson so politely sprinkled my kitchen. All in just a few minutes of rest.

I had no real reason to post all these oddities. Hope you enjoy the little happening around our house in august.

In awe!

2008-08-09T00:42:00.000-07:00

Simply amazing. The opening ceremony of the Olympics was beautiful. The best I have ever seen. I loved the vast numbers of the drummers and dancers, the contrast in light dark, masculine vs feminine. I really could go on for 20 or so more run on sentences. I was so touched when Bob C. was telling the story of the c0-flag carrier for the Chinese Olympiads. It was the little boy with scars on his head. He was one of 10 survivors in his school class from the earthquake. He was covered with the rubble and ran for help and returned to uncover 2 more students. When asked about his actions he humbly remarked I am a class leader it is my job. What a wonderful little boy.

If you missed it . . . seriously watch it. I also encourage every one to read about it. the symbolism and historical lesson through out the display is amazing. Like the Chinese scroll that narrated and was the screen, the Chinese invented paper.

and holy cow who ever thought of a torch barer would be running in air to light the flame . . . . seriously so cool.

http://en.beijing2008.cn/ceremonies/headlines/openingceremony/s214516089/

An official plea for help!

2008-07-23T22:40:00.000-07:00

Okay, blog buddies we have a situation. An unnamed person has found himself happily single at 34 with 2 wonderful children. I know many of you are thinking I am referring to Christian Bale. Sorry ladies he is still married. Yes, Christian Bale and I are good friends, and he is 34. But I am referring to someone else. The person I am referring to that needs help has many similarities to Christian Bale. I will call my friend the Dark Knight. He is charming like most of Bale's characters. Other similarities are the same height and wear their hair the same way. Both have many dialects and accents they use for career purposes. Both have daughters the same age. That is as much information as Christian is comfortable with so I will stop there. He is a very private guy.

I have no advice to offer the Dark night on online dating services Or being single and a Latter day Saint over the age of 30. So, I am out sourcing. My plea is those that know will comment on any or all of the below topics and any other you think He will need. Thank you in advance.

on the different services to use?

cautions and warnings?

appropriate online etiquette?

Singles ward? or family wards?

mail order brides from Russia?

feel free to link appropriate blog entries in comments to further educate us.

Surfing fun

2008-07-20T22:30:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of Madisen and I surfing on Saturday. We got up at 6:30 so we could beat the rush hour surf traffic. It wasn't a real big day, which was good for Madisen. But the waves are always fun.

My man's best friend

2008-07-07T23:41:00.000-07:00

We miss you.

We watched your picture slide show and Ben taught the kids about how like Christ you always loved everyone. Everyone was your friend, and they knew it. You had a great quality to include and give voice to everyone in the room, or group. Thank you for that example.

Happy Birthday Dogg!

Neil Diamond - Coming to America

2008-07-04T11:27:00.001-07:00

That Ragged Old Flag - Johnny Cash

2008-07-04T11:26:00.001-07:00

I'm proud to be an American - American Soldier Tribute

2008-07-04T11:23:00.001-07:00

The America I love!

2008-07-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

Me playing tough girl at Quantico Marine Corps Base, Virginia

my sister Britt and Hubby, he is an Officer, . . and I guess a gentleman too.
The top picture does not do justice, we are covered in a nasty tan dirt film from our ride in the vehicle thingy. Maybe Dave will comment and instruct us on the proper term.

I was catching up on the latest news and stumbled on this talk . . . so I copied it. I really loved it. If you know me you know I am very patriotic. I love the fourth of July, I always cry through the National Anthem. I love our past history, our beginning. One of my favorite things about living here (or near my brother in law Dave) is....... At the Movie theater on base before you see any show you stand in reverence. With your hand over your heart you listen to the National Anthem and view a sideshow of the few and the proud that defend all that the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence held sacred. I know My father in Heaven preserved this land for a sacred purpose. I know the founding fathers created a masterpiece; the United States of America. I hope we can all reflect of what the fourth of July really celebrates; Independence from big government, Independence from improper taxation, and the freedom of separation from church and state.

Dad is home from his second tour in Iraq

Dave meeting his darling 4 month old girl for the first time.

A conservative believes that our inalienable rights do not include housing, healthcare or Hummers.

A conservative believes that our inalienable rights DO include the pursuit of happiness. That means it is guaranteed to no one. Unless Medicaid is your pursuit of happiness.

A conservative believes that those who pursue happiness and find it have a right to not be penalized for that success. That means free trade, and not penalizing gas companies for raising prices on us . .when their prices are also being raised.

A conservative believes that there are no protections against the hardship and heartache of failure. We believe that the right to fail is just as important as the chance to succeed and that those who do fail learn essential lessons that will help them the next time around. this sounds an awful lot like a lesson in Sunday school

A conservative believes in personal responsibility and accepts the consequences for his or her words and actions. Wow! What an amazing concept. So if I buy a ridiculously expensive house and lease a brand new car then I am responsible for the payments. Not the government when the going gets tough.

A conservative believes that real compassion can't be found in any government program.

A conservative believes that each of us has a duty to take care of our neighbors. It was private individuals, companies and congregations that sent water, blankets and supplies to New Orleans far before the government ever set foot there. AMEN! I heartedly believe government programs should be dissolved and handled by churches, citizens etc. The less bureaucratic the better the agency, the more compassion. I have experience working on both sides in several government agencies, social services, health care, education and it sucks on both sides.

A conservative believes that family is the cornerstone of our society and that people have a right to manage their family any way they see fit, so long as it's not criminal. We are far more attuned to our family's needs than some faceless, soulless government program. I wonder if this is why our Heavenly Father has the family unit central to his plan?!?!

A conservative believes that people have a right to worship the God of their understanding. We also believe that people do not have the right to jam their version of God (or no God) down anybody else's throat. One anonymous non-descriptive phone call is not legitimate legal evidence for one or 437 children to be removed from their homes. No matter what the religion is.

A conservative believes that people go to the movies to be entertained and to church to be preached to, not the other way around.

A conservative believes that debt creates unhealthy relationships. Everyone, from the government on down, should live within their means and strive for financial independence. Is that a direct quote from General conference?!?!

A conservative believes that a child's education is the responsibility of the parents, not the government.

So as the parent I get to choose when they go- Nope. Where they go, -somewhat. What they learn- Not at all. Who teaches them No, Only certain government trained and certified people can teach (program) our children. I love our public education system where masturbation is required curriculum, and no Christmas songs are allowed in the Christmas concert.

A conservative believes that every human being has a right to life, from conception to death.

A conservative believes in the smallest government you can get without anarchy. We know our history: The larger a government gets, the harder it will fall. OH how it has grown and grown in the last 100 years.

read all about it here

It's Organic! Go ahead and eat up!!!

2008-06-21T22:25:00.000-07:00

We Joined the Pendleton Johnson Clan on a Strawberry picking adventure.
We did not realize it would turn into a thieving binge for the youngest of our group.

here are some great pics of the big girls. They filled their own bucket.

Now all the incriminating photo's. Benson and Katherine soon learned it was faster to eat them now, rather waiting for them to be cleaned or even purchased. They both figured out that there is no need to even take them off the plant. Us adults were greatly outnumbered. between keeping the girls within shouting distance, the boys focused on red strawberries and not green ones the little tykes got away with many, many stolen goods. Benson had a special ladybug toy in his left hand so Katherine out stole him.

Look at these yummy Carlsbad grown strawberries. Once at home we washed off the dirt, compost and other nature spices. I offered a few to Bence . .he had had enough. Hopefully he and Katherine do not get sick. We enjoyed our share of them alone for snacks, on French toast, with strawberry shortcake and homemade buttermilk scones sprinkled with powdered sugar (unless your Jeddy and then the sugar load triples). So yummy! So so yummy.

shot of the group in the strawberry fields. If you could see through hills and houses you would see our house behind Dave about 1 and a half miles. Just in front of britt is Legoland. It is always pleasant to see these massive rolling strawberry fileds among our little city. Their lease ends soon and many people want a big fancy hotel. I prefere the fields. I hope this spot stays agro, I hope we can come here and pick (or steal) many more strawberries.

Summer is here, I can turn off my brain . .right!?!

2008-06-13T12:11:00.000-07:00

We have officially ended our first year in the public education system.

We said goodbye's and extended our friendships at a picnic at the park with a bunch of our buddies.

I loaded the kids in the van to drive to my sis house for a pool party. I was looking forward to a calm peaceful 30 minute drive. I asked each kid some music they wanted to listen to. Jeddy requested superman (five for fighting, and Madisen Bad (U2). So we proceeded in that order.

We I spent the next 20 minutes explaining the meanings and lyrics to the superman song to the kids, but mostly Madisen. "Why doesn't he like to fly?" . . . "why does he say he is only a man . .he is a super hero.? . . .his life isn't hard he has powers"

Luckily we were able to just enjoy 'Bad', I hope you do also. I tried to post it we will see if it worked. On our car ride home I had to explain the judicial system and why I wasn't going to go to jail due to me driving with out my license. I had to explain to my kids that yes I do criminal things, but I'll still be there Mommy. Madisen wanted to know all the laws you go to prison for, what is prison like, how long do you stay in prison when you speed ("like you always do mommy!").

This is going to be a fun summer, Benson has learned how to unlock and open the dishwasher, and can climb to the top bunk with out the ladder, loves to use the power sliding doors in the van (I think he has a goal to wear them out by constantly opening and closing them), and the best is our secure safe home is no longer a jail for him. He learned that you can open the garage door from inside the car. So if I don't lock the kitchen door to the garage he can open the door, get in the car (open and shut the doors a few times) then climb up to the button by the visors and BAM the door opens. Luckily he cant reach the car door handles yet and the garage door is LOUD opening and closing. So if I just keep my ears tuned we should be able to keep him contained. We are going to have to train the older crazies to actually shut their doors now. It looks as though my Jeddy Saga's have returned in the form of what use to be my sweet baby Bence. Is Benson to young for boarding school. He is a mature 16 months old?
I am not sure I can handle summer if I have to have analytical conversations all day long and keep up with Bence's antics. Luckily he still takes a nap in the afternoon. Wish me luck on my relaxing summer break keeping up with my boys not the jones's.

My great new hiking back pack

2008-05-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

sorry this picture showed in the draft but didn't come up on the post

Our Get away

2008-05-29T21:24:00.000-07:00

Living in C'bad you have limitless opportunities to sit in time share presentations. We did, and got 2 nights free hotel stay for listening. We were so excited to get away and this was the excuse/resource to make it happen. We did not have high hopes for our (free) accommodation's and we were still underwhelmed. I will add several photos to hopefully give you the full effect. Thanks to Ben's Parents for loving and caring for the 3 rascals so we could have so fun without boogers on our shoulders. We escaped to the marvelous mountain resort of Big Bear last week.

The Good

Our first getaway since having kids. Yes it's true we have not taken a couple's only trip since our free cruise we won on our honeymoon. I was pregnant with Madisen on the cruise so if you count that as having kids then I think our honeymoon to Cabo is it.
Not knowing what to do without our planners, cell phones and to do lists around.
All the wonderful fresh air you can imagine
beautiful views and nature all around you
Reminded me how much I do love Utah and its marvelous big mountains.

The Bad

Pretty much every aspect of our lodging can be listed here. We couldn't get into our initial room so after a pleasant 15 minutes wait the handyman came to let us in. Once in we rested from our long drive in a musty, moldy sauna. Luckily our room was equipped with a ceiling fan. We requested a room on the 1st floor to get some relief of the heat. here are highlights of the Timberline lodge. May I recommend never staying here.

kick holes in front door. inch gap in bottom of door.
jacked locks, and we were not allowed a key for the dead bolt. hmmm nice. They did upgrade our stay and gave us a complimentary lock for the bathroom window.
High quality 3 mattress beds. Notice that the center of the bed is a good 5 inches below the head and feet of the bed. that's cozy, luckily the other bed was much nicer.
I found one tile in the bathroom that was mold free. And the craftsmanship of the shower was *****, that's five star.
The TV was unplugged. So Ben had to move it across the dresser to get it plugged in and then had to remove the tape from the back of the remote to put the batteries in properly.
I left my hair dryer at home b/c the pamphlet specifically stated dryer in every room. not so my friends, but I was allowed use of the complimentary quest Iron.
Also in the pamphlet was the continental breakfast and pool's. Notice the picture of Ben standing in front of our pool, just outside our kicked in front door. It has 10 gallons of water and 30 gallons of mud and pine needles in it. nice!!! Remember when Daniel Larussa moved to California in Karate Kid. Same effect. We could however walk 2 blocks to the family unit area and go in the indoor pool and spa, just imagine a complete lack of maintenance for the last 12 years. It was gross.

The local crazy lady that hit us up for bus fare and then wouldn't leave b/c she could 'sense' something was terribly wrong with Ben. We met her again at the German restaurant, It is always nice to make new friends when you're away.

The Unforgettable

Our hike to grand view and lodgepole pine. we spent 4 hours hiking mountainous terrain. In the first pictures you'll notice my new high end hiking pack, it is versatile and light weight, perfect for out door adventurers...... or just the crazy people that did not bring a back pack on their trip. oops!
Forgetting the sound of my whining kids voices. Ben and I missed them, it was nice to get away and focus on their good qualities and the great personalities they have.
The bowling barn, a fine establishment located right across the street from our hotel.
Watching the fish jump, literally jump out of the water to catch flies. way cool.

All in all Big Bear is a great little mountain get away. We cant wait to go back with the kids, and snow shoe, hike, kayak and stay in much much better accommodation's.

Father Sons Campout

2008-05-11T15:09:00.000-07:00

Here we are at Fiesta Island, just across from Sea World. Jeddy and Dad went on our first Father Sons Camping trip. Got some good pics of Jeddy and his buddies. We had a great time. Played lots of ball, took a little canoe trip, tried to catch Jellyfish, and camped out together in our little tent. Dad was reminded of why we got a bigger tent, and of why I am a big fan of air mattresses. Great time for us both.

Still Swimming with Sharks

2008-05-04T20:27:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been a little while since I have posted. Just about the only topic on my mind for the last week and a half has been made known by the title of the post. I figure writing about it on the blog will decrease my chances of actually getting attacked. You know, maybe I talk nice about a shark and the karma goes my way while I am in the water. Who knows, but I figure at least for my eulogy, this post could help the writer. So here goes.

Let me point out that there hasn't been an attack resulting in death in San Diego County since 1959. As many of you who know, I grew up in the Bay Area, near Great White Shark breeding grounds. Stories of White Shark attacks seemed commonplace growing up and even more so after I left. So for about the next oh 12 years that I was living somewhere other than coastal California, I had nightmare after nightmare of getting eaten by a Great White Shark(out of respect, I will try not to leave the "Great" off too much. He has earned that title, and again, trying to keep the karma positive.) This is truly my deepest phobia. I have several other fears, but this is the grandaddy.

So I decide to move to Southern California where I am told by so many experts, that the water here is just too warm for Whitey's (a bit of a pet name I have for him) liking. I don't argue it, who ever hears about attacks in San Diego. It's always Monterey or Stinson Beach, or somewhere up north. Seriously, you may find it hard to believe, I love surfing, but I do not think I could surf any of those areas. One of the main reasons I have been so willing to surf here is the 'perceived' shark scarcity in these waters. Literally, everyone I know who surfs here, always says the same thing. They are off the coast of La Jolla about 50 miles, but none of em come here. We just get those little reef sharks, sand sharks, leopard sharks, the kind that don't have mouths big enough to bite a human.

No problem, I bought it. I figured, I want to surf in the safest place I can, and enjoy the surf without the slightest thought of sharks. This has been extremely therapeutic for me actually. Anyone who knows me well, is very surprised I surf at all with my phobia. I really dont like being controlled by anything, so I wanted to attack my fear. But for the past year, I have really come to love surfing. I am no expert mind you. I do go out usually at least once a week though, and as it warms up even more.

Then last Friday came the terrible news. A swimmer was bit and killed by a 14-16 foot Great White Shark in Solana Beach. For those who dont know, Carlsbad is less than 10 miles from Solana Beach. I was seriously stunned. I got calls from family and friends who wanted to know what I thought. I called surfing buddies who I wanted to know what they thought. They mostly said there really was no chance we would get that lucky, better odds of winning the lottery. Didnt help much. I had nightmare Friday night, Saturday night and again sunday night.

The more I thought about it, the more I realized I wanted to overcome this. So Monday, the first day the beaches were reoppened within 17 miles, I went and surfed Swami's in Encinitas. I could literally see the attack site from Swami's, it is less than 3 miles away. But, it was my buddies birthday and it is one of his favorite spots. I took a deep breath when he told me, then figured it was the best way to stare fear down. I have never been so jumpy in the water. When I saw a fin out of the water not far from me, I called to my buddy Dan-o. Not to worry, it was a dolphin. Then I saw it jump out of the water and I wondered what it was jumping from. We caught some good waves, he caught a ton of "birthday waves", and after a couple hours we emerged attack free. Very therapeutic for me to be out there again.

Then Friday and Saturday the swell was really big, so we went out to Tamarack, our local spot with the picture above. It was incredible, each day I thought a little less about Whitey. The waves were 8-9 feet which is huge for these parts so I was thinking about waves not pummeling me. Not enough though cuz one pummeled me so bad it split my board in 2(Kim thinks this is God telling me to get out while I can). I did get some really great rides though, which is sort of the addiction to surfing. You get the rush of being on that board, getting the momentum from nature pushing you through the water. It is just unbelievable. I am hooked.

If there is a point to this post, you may have to figure it out. I just am a guy who loves the ocean and hopes to be able to keep surfing. I know there is no guarantee about anything in life. Very few of us get to go out the way we want. And a shark is The Last Way I want to go. Let me repeat that, The Last Way. But I know it wasn't the sharks fault that she was designed to eat big animals. We are in their water. Can't exactly blame them. Mainly I think we can just be glad we get to do some things we enjoy in this life......, and hope it is at least another 50 years before Whitey strikes San Diego again

If only I could sing

2008-04-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

It is tradition in our family that we rotate through the kids (my siblings) and every year for my father's birthday we share a memory, we share the gifts he left us with. This year it is my turn. I thought I would share what I posted on my family blog.

I have been thinking about this post for a very long time . . . four years to be exact. As the youngest of four children it is my turn to commemorate my father on what would be his 60th Birthday. I wish I could add some photo's but none capture him right. So I will try to paint it with my words exactly what I want you to see.

I was six or seven years old , Mom and I were home together. I remember the gold velvety set of chairs in the very clean living room. Dad was up all night at the hospital and came home on his lunch break for a much needed nap. I thus entertained my self in our split level 70's basement. Popcorn ceilings that cornered to plastered white textured covering for the top 1/3 portion of the wall. Some fabulous dark wood paneling covered the remaining wall that carried your eye down to the multi colored carpet. Of all colors to mix (on purpose) the owner's choose the brown/red/orange/black carpet . . .Do you remember how us kids called it the throw up carpet.

It is in this creative sparking atmosphere my youthful drama began. I preceded to meander and hum my favorite songs. As I worked from the rocking horse, to the book self still singing. I was my own back up, my own echo, I was a one girl choir. As time went on the volume increased. Before no time I was Dancing and bolting out any and every song I knew. I really only needed to know a percentage of the actual lyrics, as I could figure out new rhyming patterns and words.

Just at the climax of my bizarre musical I met my father coming down from the top floor as I was dancing up from the basement. At this moment (not a moment earlier) I connected the dots that my dad was trying to nap, and I was screaming appalling half lyrics to tone deaf rhythms.

I was startled and braced myself for the appropriate scowl and lecture. I was even more startled by his reaction. One in which I ponder on often. I am tearing up as I vividly can see his face it was more youthful, with his big ears, clean shaven and a huge smile. He tenderly says, "I really enjoyed your singing, Thank you". He gets to the living room, I am still a few steps down in the basement, and looks back at me. To this day I don't know if it ever registered what he said next, I was absorbing the first compliment. I do know it was an uplifting and funny compliment at my grotesque attempt at being a movie star.

As all of you know it is not shocking that Dad would compliment or find the good in being kept awake. It is not that this was a rare glimpse into his heart. Dad was a caring person that his actions were driven from his heart. The amazing thing is that he read my inner heart, my deepest secret wants and desires and needs. I loved to sing, as bad as i was I sooo enjoyed singing. In that minute experience from 23 years ago my father told me; he loved me, loved me more then him napping, loved me enough to hear my off tune screeching and have it be music to his ears. Dad told me with out words "I was listening and it was great seeing my child be herself that I didn't, couldn't interrupt her". He loved my wacky creative chaos, he loved my shortcomings.

This event is neatly packaged and placed in the back of my mind. I have wandered to it thousands of times, running through the dialog, the story. Every time I think upon it I feel like a better person, I feel more able, I feel empowered and loved. Dad just as easily could have yelled form upstairs to quiet down, and I would not have thought about it again. Yet he gave me the time and space to express my inner soul (if you will). As rough and off tune as it was he found such beauty in my creation of mix matched rock 'n roll songs jumping from chorus to chorus of different songs.

Now as I am a mother and have children inventing them selves I grow to appreciate it even more. When Jeddy yells to me "Mommy, look at me" with all the excitement he can muster as he hangs of the edge of a slide backwards with one foot kicking up and his tongue out. I try to give that same encompassing smile I received and say great work Big guy, as I run to catch him before he falls. When Madisen brings me cards she has scripted, "Mom I love you, I am glad god made one of you. I do not want 2 of you or 3 of you , I am happy with one of you". I give her a big tear filled hug. I did not correct her backwards g's, I did not ask "what would be wrong with having 2 of me, am i that bad?"I know she is coming up with her own words to tell me how much she cares, she does not want hallmark to do the work for her. As Benson races the big kids up the stairs and tip toes to get 'his' toothbrush (which is usually Madisen's) and shows us he understands . .. "kids go get your teeth brushed". I give him a proud wink, He knows how to obey.

I am grateful for the awareness that I now carry to enjoy the molding of my kids. I am grateful for the example he was. I am grateful for his humor that made so many terrible events tolerable. I am grateful that he made things that were important to me, important to him. Hopefully I can encourage my children to sing out of tune, to make up lyrics they forget, to apply for grad school, or what ever it is, to be who they are . . .because just as my Father loved me, I love them.

Happy Birthday Dad, I miss you.

Love,

your atilla the hun

Famous Encounters

2008-04-12T01:11:00.000-07:00

I just read a blog from my buddy Lynn, and I think this is a great subject. Absolutely no point involved, just a little game I thought would be fun for my group of blogging friends that want to play. We have all met our share of famous people. And when we do we usually get all excited and tell everyone we know for the next few days and then we forget about it. Well, I am going to go back and remember all the ones I can remember. I really hope you leave a story or 2 in either your blog or as a comment to my blog.

Here goes.

1989. San Francisco Bay Area Earthquake. Earlier in the day, my buddy Quiant Myers introduced me to a former pro bowl Defensive End for the SF 49er's, named Pierce Holt. After the earthquake, I was skateboarding home from Quiants and at the ice cream parlor I saw Pierce. I stopped to talk to him, and he tried to ride my skateboard, almost falling down. So I almost ruined his career, luckily he caught his balance and gave me a ride home in his truck. Pretty cool as a 13 year old.

1994. Instead of Senior Ball, my friends and I decided to go to Disneyland. We stayed at the same hotel that the Oakland A's were staying in. Rickey Henderson, the all time greatest leadoff hitter in baseball, sat down next to me in the lobby and had a drink. I never talked to him but after he finished the drink, I took the glass and I am pretty sure it is still in a box in my parents attic. Some day I will pull it out and show the grandkids. Another story from that trip. I was in the elevator with my buddy Bryan, and 2 A's players were in there. One of them farted, and tried to blame the other one. It was pretty funny. Made me glad that when I grew up I could still be kind of a dork.

1997 or 98. I was working as a bus boy in Provo Utah for Los Hermanos Mexican Restaurant. In walked Michael Stipe, lead singer for R.E.M. I was a big fan of REM, so I recognized him instantly, as I figured everyone else would. So turns out he wasn't as big in Utah as California, and I was the only one who recognized him. I went and got his autograph. I said, um, your Michael Stipe right. He said yes. I asked, what are you doing in Provo, Utah. He said he was visiting his grandma. That was it. Seemed like kind of a shy,quiet guy.

Also in this time period, Steve Young at same restaurant. My good friend Caroline King served him, and she was much cooler than I would have been.

2006. This is my biggest celebrity sighting. I was in the Las Vegas Airport, and there was some buzz about a movie being shot at the end of the terminal. So I go check it out and lo and behold the best looking man on the planet, Brad Pitt. He was about 6 feet away and he was this little petite man. I was really surprised, he had the frame of a woman. Like a waif model. Anyway, I am completely comfortable in my heterosexuality to say he is one hot man. I say that because I remember being boggled as a youngster about how a girl can tell if a guy was good looking. Girls it is easy, but guys just look like guys. He was the first guy that I saw that I could tell what girls meant, when they thought a guy was good looking. I say that in the straightest way possible, really. I don't know if anyone out there is starting to wonder about me, but I am secure enough to say it. I remember thinking, if I looked like that guy, I know girls would think I was hot. Plain and simple. Thanks Brad.

This was the scene I saw, at the end he walks right towards me

I also met a Superbowl winning QB of the Redskins, Mark Rypien, at an amusement park in Virginia. I met some girl in Jumanji, and guy from Robin Hood, Men in Tights on my mission. Now that I think about it, my celebrity sightings are not super impressive. But it was fun remembering. If you read this, Tag, your it, Lets hear yours.

Family Pic's

2008-04-06T11:34:00.001-07:00

So we decided to get some pictures as a family. Just so happened it was after a long day for Benson, because he was not very cooperative. We did get a few good ones, thanks to a great couple of photographers. Here are our beautiful kids, their beautiful mom and their lucky dad.

Easter thoughts

2008-03-23T22:14:00.000-07:00

I am feeling pretty stoked right now. I have been just thinking about how good life is. It is a good thing to be grateful, and an experience with the kids tonight made me want to record it. We had a great Easter Sunday. We got some goodies from the Easter bunny, went to church, listened to a great musical presentation by the ward choir. I had a wonderful lesson with my 15 year old Sunday school class. They make me stoked. Such great kids and have such a great grasp of what life is all about. They each shared their favorite scripture that is related to Easter. Wasn't like it could be with some kids. No pulling teeth(intentional pun). Every single one of them just freely shared why they are grateful for The Savior Jesus Christ. I feel their strength in their testimony. No way I was that solid at their age. It makes me think we have a bright future ahead.
We had a great salmon dinner with Kim's sister and family. Wonderful meal and great company. I love having them so close. It means alot to our family. Then I called my grandma who just might be one of the most grateful and giving people I know. I always am in a better mood after talking to her. It doesn't hurt that she is a typical grandma and thinks her grandson can do no wrong. I really want to be that way after I talk to her. I think she knows that, which is why she is so encouraging. She wants the best for her family is wise enough to know the best way to motivate others is with positive reinforcement. What a great lady.

We then went to the Bakers for a baby blessing. They are some friends in the ward. Rob is one of my surfing buddies. We got to just get to know some of their friends and family better. Afterward we came home, got the kids all ready for bed and then just before prayer I said that we have alot to be thankful for, maybe we should each mention. So Jeddy busts out in the most sincere way that he is really thankful for mom and dad getting him a nice Easter shirt to wear to church and that he was thankful he had a mom and dad. I expected something like 'thankful for my candy' and the same from Madisen. They spent the next several minutes just going back and forth on things they were really thankful for. Mostly family, but Madisen also threw in that she was thankful that Jesus sacrificed so we could live again. It was just one of those moments where I realized that life just doesn't get any better than that. I feel so very fortunate.

This probably has something to do with a surf session my other surfing buddy and neighbor Dan-o and I had on Saturday. It was just the best one ever. We saw 4 dolphins, the sky was perfect blue, the view of Tamarack's coast line was picture perfect and we just kept catching wave after wave. Dan-o especially, he's both a generous and a smart surfer and he catches a ton of waves. But I caught my fair share too. More than ever. And more good long rides than ever. Waves weren't real big, but they were very nicely shaped, and very ride able. It was just the best session I have had. Dan-o and I were still buzzing about it later that day, and I think I am still buzzing about it.

I am just telling my wife I can never do a short blog. This was meant to be one believe it or not. But the point is, while I was surfing, I just felt grateful to be living life. I think surfers call it 'stoked'. And I think that must have rubbed off to my kids or something, cuz they were just so 'stoked' also. I heard this quote that seems true"Gratitude leads to joy and happiness, just as joy and happiness lead to gratitude and contentment". A very wise thought and I will end on that.

We found perfection!

2008-03-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

Welcome to it, you'll love it. The locals call it Seagrove and Powerhouse Park. It's in Del Mar. I prefer perfect. Seagrove Park has a great kids playground, with sand box, bucket swings and regular swings. Adjacent to it sits Powerhouse park, with its rocky cliffs and smooth beaches lined with a well groomed putting green lawn. Not least are the amenities, clean bathroom, community center trails for scooter races and great tasting sand- so far this is Benson's favorite sand.

A couple weeks ago we went exploring for something new to do in town. We got lost and ended up here. And to think we were going to get some books at Borders. I am glad we got lost. We rode scooter around the sidewalks, petted all the friendly dogs, played at the play ground that overlooks the beach, ran races on the lawn, rolled down the sand dunes, strolled on the beach and the walk way, enjoyed snacks at the pavilion, and Jeddy's favorite was the grand view of the coaster train. After Benson was done 'snacking' on the sand and the kids had filled their pockets and hair with sand we headed for Swami's cafe to end the adventure perfectly with fresh fruit smoothies.

A friend of mine (she is a professional blogger) has a regular post 'Fabulous item of the week'. this is my attempt at that. However I don't post that frequently and do not have that many exciting things to pass on to my readers, so this is My Fabulous item of the year. And I hope to enjoy it for many many years to come. If this feels like an advertisement, it is sort of. We love visitors. Ben's sister Caroline and her husband Mark were just in town and we always feel like we are on vacation when people visit. So if your interested in a day/week/ afternoon like this come visit, there is always room at the Carlsbad five Inn.

Crazy Hair Day

2008-03-14T08:17:00.000-07:00

It is crazy hair day at Madisen's Elementary school. With the skills and talents of her Aunt Caroline she participated in High Fashion.

I miss The Dogg

2008-03-08T23:18:00.000-08:00

No this is not about my old schnauzer, Marty, though he will always be my favorite pet no matter what. I seriously think that if I emulated Marty I would be in the Celestial Kingdom with room to spare. But that post will have to be another day. I am referring to another Dogg, BJ Chestnut. He was my best friend since high school, and he died about 3 and half years ago. I miss him everyday. That said, I feel like the luckiest guy to have known him. Every so often I get on the computer and look things up that remind me of him. Usually music, but also sports and well, music. He loved music. It was his passion. So I want to blog about BJ and music for a bit.

He and I had the same tastes in music for the most part .Whenever I got a tip from BJ about a band, I could always count on it being someone I would love. It is kind of like people who are bad dressers so they have other people pick out their clothes. Maybe I'm a bad dresser (t-shirt, shorts and flip flops is all i ever wear if i can), but that is beside the point. I think I have good taste in music, but BJ had great taste in music and when he found it, he let me know, and I would be hooked. I dont always have the time to find new artists, so BJ found them and let me in. ....................small tangent, Jeddy just woke up and wanted water. He is so cute. I love my kids. I'm so lucky...........It was usually really emotionally powerful stuff that he was into. Coldplay, Dashboard Confessional, Jeff Buckley, to name a few. But I always think of him when I hear certain songs, especially those artists. One in particular is Jeff Buckley's 'Hallelujah'. Here is a link if you havent heard it.

http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance/search/jeff%2Bbuckley

I also find some physical resemblance to BJ, though no resemblance on Jeff's voice. BJ was a great looking guy but kind of tone retarded when he sang. This is kind of how it is in sports. Most great coaches were just average players. The reverse can also be true. They know how the game is supposed to be played though so they are amazing at seeing talent and putting it to work, they just can't do it themselves. BJ knew he couldn't sing. But he absolutely envied those that could. I can't sing either, so he felt comfortable singing around me. And I have to say, one of us always really enjoyed it. Him.

Well, this week I was flipping through the tv and saw on American Idol that one of the finalists was singing this song, Hallelujah. It made me think of BJ. I only caught the end of it and was unimpressed. But even Simon said it was great so I figured I should look it up and see how he was. Well, I just youtubed it and found it. He did do a nice job. Then for about an hour(if you are wondering where I get all this time, Kim is on a ladies weekend in San Diego with her sisters and mom.) I watched videos of Jeff Buckley, just thinking of The Dogg, and wondering if he and Jeff are hanging out(Jeff Buckley's life and career were cut short. He drowned back in 1997). If you know BJ, you know he had kind of a lot of man crushes so he is probably hanging out with him or Elvis. He is probably looking forward to seeing that dude from EFY who had the great teeth. He loved that guy. Now, don't be confused, BJ was completely hetero, but I guess he just had enough confidence to let the rest of us know when he thought a guy was good looking. I don't know if any of us were real comfortable with that, but it was always a nice time making fun of him for it.

Anyway, back to the point. I was watching Jeff Buckley videos and checked out BJ's original blog site he created back before I even knew what a blog was. I read some posts and it made me want to get in touch with someone he and I were friends with. I sent her an email. She emailed back. I hope if she reads this post that she knows BJ is probably looking out for her up there. Then I decided to check the blog of another friend who left a comment on BJ's old blog. I went to her blog and it blew me away. She had just written a post about the very same performance on American Idol that made me think of BJ in the first place.

So here I am. Full circle. I've got the music on and I can't go to bed until I let you know some of what makes me miss The Nutter every day. This is one of those blogs that are more therapeutic than anything else. I miss him. I really think we are supposed to love deeply those around us in this life. I have never had a friend who loved deeper everyone they knew. He wasn't selective. He may not have gotten along with everyone all of the time, like when he punched me really hard while we were driving to a wedding. Almost crashed. Or when he and Jake dragged me out of our house at 1 am in the freezing cold winter Utah weather, trying to take my clothes off along the way out. There was also the time that he tried to hook up with my wife, but at least that was before we were dating. I have to admit, even the things that drove me nuts about BJ, I miss. He was the best. I don't really want to see him any time soon, maybe 70 years or something. I just hope when I do, he will be able to break away from Jeff so we can hang out. That's all for now. Love ya Dogg.

What makes Jeddy tick? Insanity or genious?

2008-02-28T22:30:00.000-08:00

It has been a 2 ear infection, case of pneumonia, Thinking day for Carlsbad girl scout council, troop meeting, goal of the kids to dirty every thing in the house, go to Dr's appt with 6 kids under the age of 6, and scissors taken to library books and our sofas kind of week. This has been our life.

Needless to say I have not had time to post lately.

When I would call my mom from Virginia and try to explain to her how wonderful but active and insane my Jeddy was, she had 2 responses. No matter the story, the same response. Laughter so hard I am sure she peed her pants, and "Kim he is just like you", of course she said this through tears and nasal snorts as she tried to gain control of her laughter.

We moved to her house for our homeless summer, before Vegas. I remember pretty vividly my mom enjoying Jeddy, and saying you need to record all his adventures. She used the word adventure but really she meant the upheaval he caused just being an independent inquisitive boy. My first thought was, why would I want to remember him cutting up my fabric collection, or him "cleaning" the carpet with glue, or the vast times he has redecorated.

Luckily, I had a second thought, that my mom was right. I think I am well equipped with stories for when girls comes over to date him. Hopefully I will scare them off . . .at least until after his mission. A great benefit to this archiving is: I have learned to really love him. Not to worry, I have always loved him. He is my little Jeddy, we took naps everyday I was pregnant w/Bence (to insure we would get our rental deposit back. he was only trusted when sedated). I love to see his little mind grasp the world around him and to see his interpretation. I love him.

Let me explain. After breakfast a year and a half ago I told the kids to play upstairs in their room, I was going to shower. Jeddy asked for Hot Cocoa and I explained, "No Jeddy, I cant make it for you". So my wonderful Madisen did exactly as I asked. Jeddy did too, just a different interpretation. He took the brown sugar from the table and evenly spread it over the kitchen floor, practicing for his next bowl of cream of wheat. Then he scaled our 4 shelf pantry to the "out of reach top shelf". The cocoa powder fell and opened but hey no damage done. Its now opened for him and ready to be used. He proceeds to mix water in cups and the powder. He soon realizes the taste is better if you skip the water and just eat the powder. So with a full mouth of cocoa powder he comes to show off his self reliance to me in the shower.

Easy for me to find the crime scene as a chocolate drool trail was left on the carpet.

He took, "I cant make it for you", and said, "Ok I'll do it myself". Can you blame him. well I did. I cant say it has stopped him but at least I can get things cleaned up while he is in time out.

Jeddy and his skilled interpretation of life might drive the faint of heart into an asylum. But really I have just grown to love him more, I am graying fast and need more naps then ever. But I really love my little rascal. I mean my big rascal.

My point of the blog is recording History. I think through writing it down and thinking about it in a creative or logical way, I take out my freak frustration and some anger and can just love him for him. I find I am that way with biographies as well.

Many of you know Jeddy is named from Heber J. Grant, the J. is Jeddy, not Jedidiah, or Jed. After naming him after President Grant I read several biographies. I just think the world of him. same goes with Stonewall Jackson, Emiline Durkheim and George Washington Carver. What an interesting thing it is to really invest energy to get to know someone.

I urge all my fellow bloggers to fall in love, not romantically, with someone in their lives. A friend(good old Lynn Henry) shared on his blog hours spent with his dying grandfather in the hospital and getting to know each other that way. It got me thinking, and brought me to this post. I wish I had the time to just dissect and write about all my kids all day long, they are wonderful. After I brag about them, I seem to be a better mom to them.

We spend our days trying to digest and interpret millions of bits of information, but how rewarding it is to focus on human life, explore and understand those around us. And come to love them. The next time Ben drives me nuts, hopefully I will try to get to know him and Love him, instead of just focusing on getting my point across.

God knew what he was doing when he made us. What a life.

Welcome to Monticello

2008-02-11T14:38:00.001-08:00

Many of you know we used to live in Virginia. One of our favorite places to go was the estate of Thomas Jefferson, our beloved Father of the Constitution, and third President of the United States of America. Since it was kind of a political time of year, I figured I would recall some trips we have taken in the birthplace of our country. This picture is one we took while visiting nearby Charlottesville, VA. We hold much respect for this man as did many others. JFK once welcomed forty-nine Nobel Prize winners to the White House. He said, "I think this is the most extraordinary collection of talent and of human knowledge that has ever been gathered together at the White House — with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone." So to those of you history lovers, enjoy this current picture of the home that sits behind his face on the nickel.

Next I would like to show you a home in Carlsbad, CA that we checked out at an open house yesterday. Many of you know, we are thinking of buying a home, so we check things out from time to time. Here is a picture.

Here is a nice house. No one would be ashamed to live in this home. It is a bit of a fixer upper, note the front window is boarded up, and the flooring has been torn up by the previous owner that was foreclosed on. Anyway, so far it is the most reasonably priced starter home in a nice neighborhood with a great backyard that we have seen since moving to Carlsbad. Don't worry we won't rush into anything.

So here is where this post takes a turn. That first picture, probably none of you doubted me when I said it was a picture of Monticello, a lavish mansion brainchild of Jefferson. Well, it isn't. It is actually a home for sale in Mt. Olive, NC. A good bud, Martin Johnson is living in the area and he is thinking of buying this home apparently. The catch, the asking price for the nearly 5000 square foot Classical Revival home on 3/4 of an acre with a swimming pool in the backyard is $510,000. Our cute fixer upper 1800 square foot home lists for the price on $525,000. Uhm, Martin, mind if I move in?

So make up your own minds, but I have to say, I live in Southern California and I love it. But when I see things like this, I feel like I might be crazy. My first instinct is to either puke, move or surf so I can justify how in the crud I live here. So I am off from work early, I am leaving and I hope sharks don't smell puke, cuz it is 70 degrees outside and all of a sudden I am feeling kind of queezy. See ya,

Ben

Here is a Post post script. this is a link to the north carolina home http://www.oldhouses.com/cf/displaylisting.cfm?q_listingid=2880&searchlist=3134,2555,682,2905,3119,2654,2733,3117,2768,2157,3021,3056,3082,2776,2777,2953,2957,2973,2943,2326,2880,2518,2217,2893,3107,3124,3131,2999,3061,2975,2978,2990,2951,1825,2421,3118&searchname=Listings%20In%20North%20Carolina&searchdest=%2Fcf%2Flistinglist%2Ecfm%3Fq%5Flistingstate%3DNC%26searchname%3DListings%2BIn%2BNorth%2520Carolina%26startrow%3D1%26maxrows%3D25

Post pps. surfing was nice. i still stink, but i have a great time.

here is the new sign for my office that Swanny made. nice work buddy. I love it.

Ying yang

2008-02-10T20:47:00.000-08:00

What is the scripture(s) i am looking for . . .for every bad there is a something good. For with all good comes bad also. etc, something like that. I was really sick last weekend, sore throat, aches, congested, tired and yeah sick. However the sweetest blessing occurred.

So I lay in bed trying to mend. All I really want is a long restful nap. Instead my sweet daughter comes to check on me every 5 to 10 minutes. She patted my head, colored and cut a heart, wrote a get well card, made me herbal tea, got daddy to get me more medicine, brought me water, gave me a kiss, made sure I was drinking my tea, asked if I was asleep yet, brought more Kleenex's and took my dishes to the kitchen. At about the 4th interruption I almost got mad at her. Then I realized something, she loves me. My sweet somewhat of a recluse 6 year old, is painstakingly doing everything in her imagination and power to help me.

I am so glad I stopped my self from getting frustrated with the interuptions and was able to see how wonderful she is. The lord gave me what I really wanted it was just disguised in the altruistic actions of my daughter.

Along the same lines of bad things turning out to be blessings, and the concept of opposition in all things lets talk about pregnancy. I was reading medical news and found some great information.
It was an article about how pregnant women shouldn't consume caffeine, some studies link it to a 50% higher miscarriage rate. Is caffeine in the word of wisdom?-- that's another blog. That isn't relevant to me but the article stated the following which is very applicable to me.

"Women who have morning sickness are less likely to miscarry than those who do not, possibly because the same hormonal changes that cause nausea and vomiting contribute to a healthy pregnancy. But some researchers said morning sickness could lead to confusing results in caffeine studies. These researchers argued that because they feel ill, some women may consume less caffeine. That tendency may make it appear that they are less likely to miscarry because they avoid caffeine, when the reason is actually that they began with healthier pregnancies."

I am living proof that the article and scripture's are true. I was sicker then a dog for 9 months, 8 months and then only 7 with Benson. I will concede this is not a sound statistical or untried argument. Yet they are all here, and I was very healthy minus loosing weight during pregnancy. Granted I am not pregnant now yet I'd rather be sick and have that little extra security that it is a healthier pregnancy then not. If I ever get pregnant again and I am sick please don't remind me I said this.

I could research the scriptures for my self but I thought this is a great opportunity to test the religious levels of my blog community (5 strong and growing). I would like to hear your experiences with opposition in all things and finding the blessings among hardships. I look forward to your comments.

It has been a whole year!

2008-02-08T11:04:00.000-08:00

Jeddy sharing his favorite costume with Bence. Bence isnt so sure J is being nice or not.

It is our little Bence's Birthday. Or actually it is the first anniversary of his birth (As my Dad would say). We are so glad to have him in our family. I always try to enjoy the stages my kids are in because time
passes so quickly. But with Bence I can't wait for him
to grow up bigger then Jeddy and be able to defend himself. He has bumps, bruised, bite marks, finger pokes scratches and the best disappointed look anyone could give a big brother. The most frustrating part about this is Jeddy does most of it out of love for his wonderful playmate. Benson is learning patience and endurance that is for sure.

Things Benson loves- Madisen's hair things and make-up, getting into cabinets, "sorting" mom's Tupperware, walking, playing on the stairs, peek-a-boo, 5 little piggies, books, being in charge of turning the pages during reading, applesauce, cheerios, warm bottles, baths with siblings . . . never alone, toothbrushes and brushing his 10 teeth.

He is a very good helper, he has an internal beacon and when the dishwasher is opened he come bolting in to help you unload . . .he never loads, just unloads. He is tall enough now to help unorganized drawers, his theory is everything is better when its on the floor. He loves to be with people. when Ben comes home from work Benson will keep his eye on him and start crying If he is not acknowledged fast enough. he needs his daddy's love, and quickly.Things he doesn't like- green beans, things taken from his hands, being put in his high chair, being dressed or undressed, diaper changes, waking up in the dark, and missing naps.

A very cute thing Benson is doing now is when he gets hurt and you pick him up and give him comfort and a hug, he pats you on the back. He is so cute. I hope you enjoy getting to know him as much as we have.

Our little Cougar fan Cheering the cougars against the UCLA bruins with Uncle Josh

I had a Nephi night

2008-02-03T21:18:00.001-08:00

The big guy (jedster, Matthew J, Spiderman, Peter Parker-but only on
Sunday, mister monster or Jeddy) had his surgery on Tuesday. 2 pharmacy's and 2 prescriptions later we finally got the correct medicine and gave him his first dose of the special inner ear antibiotic. It is highly favored to dose the ear 2 times a day for a week following surgery. Unfortunately after Jeddy's 3rd dose the bottle was lost. The good news with this is that every drawer in our house has been sorted through and cleaned, all 3 bathrooms have been cleaned twice, the kids rooms bins are all in order, under the fridge is spotless, couch cushions were vacuumed, bed linens cleaned and made. I was really working hard to try and find his medicine. Days passed, and passed. I finally spent some quality peaceful time on my knees. I leveled with The Lord and told him I have tried, I have no more knowledge to possible locations it could be. I asked for his help and guidance.

I felt impressed to do laundry after. Which is uncomfortable because I do not do laundry on Sunday, I consider that my work. So I choose to have Sunday my day of rest from laundry.
I felt comfortable taking the laundry all down to the garage (laundry room). Then I proceeded to the computer and looked at all the beautiful pictures of my kids. And i thought hmmmm maybe we have evidence of where the medicine is in some pictures.

So, I worked my way back in time to the day I knew he was given his last dose. As I was admiring my handsome baby loving his new obsession- brushing his teeth. It came, directly from Him above . . .My sweater is dirty. My sweater in the picture is dirty. And all the pieces of my impression came together. I screamed and ran to the garage. Ben was becoming more and more alarmed. I was so thrilled to find Jeddy's medicine in my dirty sweater's pocket.

I am so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father that we can communicate with on a personal level. I am grateful for personal inspiration for even the little meaningless things in our lives. I am grateful for the gospel in my life as a mother, I believe it makes me a better mother . . . or at least one with better resources.

Second try, Hope this works

2008-01-29T14:15:00.000-08:00

Jeddy had surgery this morning at Children's Day hospital in San Diego. Ben and I were very anxious about the procedure this time around. He had tubes placed at 9 months, and we were more relaxed. Ben gave him a blessing and took the morning off this morning to come to the hospital with us.

We absolutely Love Jeddy's pediatric ENT Dr. Ochi. He is so great, takes his time to really understand the patient and the problems. We have been waiting since sept (when originally scheduled) to see if he needed his tonsils removed. At our pre-op apt. last week he ruled that out. I am glad his tonsils looked great and we do not have to hassle with 10 days of Jeddy recovering from intense surgery in bed.

This morning Dr. Ochi preformed Bilateral Myringot Tubes w/Adenoidectomy. He found that both middle ears had fluid built up, pre surgery we thought just his right ear was full. We are relived to have added the adenoidectomy because the Dr found they were enlarged to several times the proper size. thus obstructing his throat, airways, causing difficulty in breathing, eating, and etc.

he was a good boy, very brave and worked well with the Dr's and nurses. Above is a picture of him in recovery, downing Popsicles and Gatorade. Our prayers and hopes are that in a few days he will have recovered from surgery and be able to hear, breathe and function like the little rambunctious boy he is. Jeddy's hearing has been like he is underwater, very muffled and non distinct. He has no permanent hearing loss or damage, . ..and should hear like superman in a few days. I think all will be well considering we have been home for 20 minutes, it only took Jeddy 5 minutes in to superman returns to get in costume and perform along with the movie . . .hopefully he doesn't try flying again.

Just thought I would let you know, everything went well, and he is back to fighting off the bad guys.

A life well lived, Gordon B. Hinckley

2008-01-27T22:22:00.001-08:00

May we stand a little taller, and live his words more fully as we strive to become more like Christ. Thank you President Hinckley for your service and faithful leadership.
Till we meet again.

Ben's new favorite place on Earth

2008-01-20T19:57:00.000-08:00

So I grew up in Northern California and came down south as a youngster for only 1 reason. The County of Orange boasted the larger than life site that previous to my parents generation was only good for the soils ability to grow citrus. That and a handful of surfers who made Huntington Beach famous as Surf City, USA. What I can tell you is that I never came down to watch the Angels or the Dodgers play. And it wasn't for the Lakers either. Heck, we didn't even care that much about visiting the beach. We had them up north. All I knew about beaches as a kid, was that they were windy even on sunny days and the water was cold. Little did I know. No the only interest I had coming down here was to fulfill all my preteen dreams of going to Disneyland. It was magic coming as a 12 year old kid for the first time. Pure magic. Even Josh and I got along at Disneyland, and for us at that age, that was saying something. Everywhere you looked there were exciting things going on. Rides, roller coasters, Star Tours, Michael Jackson as Captain EO(at the time the most expensive movie per minute ever produced). Yes Walt Disney was a genius in my 12 year old mind. Pure genius.

But the next time I went, I was kind of bumbed. The rides weren't as good as Great America. This one girl in my high school only wore Disney character clothing, and I thought it was pretty much lame. Disneyland was pretty far away. I think it might have rained while we were there. Star Tours was old school, and I am pretty sure Michael Jackson was sleeping with little boys. The Magic had faded. The place disappointed me. The coolest thing about that trip was that I got to be with some of my best friends in high school. Second to that the Oakland A's stayed at the same hotel as we did and I got a glass that Rickey Henderson drank out of. (Probably still in my parents attic somewhere)

So fast forward to about 12 years in the future. I now have 3 kids, a 6 year old, 3 year old and 11 month old. We moved about an hour from Disneyland this past year, decided to get season passes and my life has changed. I no longer see Disneyland through a punk teenagers eyes, but through the eyes of a 6 year old princess, and a 3 year old adventurer. I love seeing my kids get excited when they see Mickey or Snow White or Mary Poppins. Their innocent eyes wonder in amazement at the magic of It's a Small World. Pirates of the Caribbean takes them through a strange nighttime adventure in the middle of the day. The Tiki room has real birds that sing. Everything about this place is magic to them. It is amazing. I love it. Whenever we have a weekday off and no holiday, we are there. I cant get enough of it. It is the strangest and most unexpected thing. Even Kim thinks I am kind of weird, cuz I get so stoked to go. To me it is a place where a kid can just have that magic that only kids really get to have. The magic of Christmas, before you know about Santa. Before they get old and it no longer holds that wonder and amazement. Yes, to my children, it is everything great about being a kid. Hanging out with Mom and Dad, getting some treats and exploring a 100% kid wonderland.

I am not a real big drama or theater person, and most of the guys that work there seem much too gay to not be on your guard when you were around them. But I could really see myself working there someday. I would probably like to just walk around the park wearing a light blue and white striped pair of pants, white shirt and a matching tie and engineer hat. I could just pick up garbage. Seriously. I could be one of those people who knew everything about the park, and when you asked me where a bathroom is, I could tell you everything you don't want to know about the rides not to miss and the best attractions and the history of Walt Disney himself. That would be sweet. Again, don't think I am kidding. I have had this thought. It would probably have to wait until I am retired or independently wealthy, whichever comes first. But right now it is right up there with my other retirement dream of being a fisherman in Jamaica. Either one would be alright.

As for Mr Disney. Well, lets just say he has regained his genius stature. Nice work Walt.

Better junky than chapter 7

2008-01-14T20:32:00.000-08:00

I used to be humiliated by the fact that I am trashy, now I embrace it.
At first it was hard taking everyones "hey we don't need or use this anymore, want it?", or "We got a new better _________ do you want our old one". Dental school gave me the reality that if we didn't get it free, second hand or by way of a Christmas gift . .we just didn't. Looking back I think we are so awesome for not needing cell phones, cable, vacuum (1st year of dental school), crib (Benson got our 1st that was not held together with duct tape]), play station, dinners out, babysitters, gym passes, high speed internet, HD tv, cordless phone, or real furniture. Now that we are out of dental school we can breathe but still live the same lifestyle but with a few upgrades.

When we first moved to Carlsbad we found it amazing that weekend mornings you could drive around and get all sorts of free good stuff. For example our desk, a globe that opened to hold 4 bottles, martinellies- of course, 4 night stands, king size head board, 2 dressers, 2 file cabinets, wingback chair, play station 2, just my size wet suit, complete series of Bourne, Lord of the rings and star wars books, purses for Madisen, and thats just the good stuff. These items of trash to those around us were better replacements or completely new for us. Basically the wedding tradition of something used, barrowed, blue, new and old, is our motto minus something new.

Full tank, great grill $28 you move it yours desk

I was driving (the speed limit) on Saturday listening to financial talk radio. I learned that the average American spends $1.22 for every dollar they earn. In the 80s we saved 12 percent of our income, now we are down to saving -1% of our income. So from my limited math skills I gather we are setting ourselves up for financial prison and doom while making bankers and salesman fat. We give everyone around us our money, plus, keep nothing for ourselves or savings. Humph? Where did the breakdown in rationale and logic come from? I was taught that you do not buy what you cant afford, If you want a big something you SAVE UP, then buy it.

I am convinced the devil concocted the buy now pay later, and 0% down for a year then bam your couch is at 25% interest. My question is why in the sam hill do so many Americans fall for it. Was I in the minority of children taught an understanding that if you spend 22 cents more then you earn, . .your in debt 22 cents?!?

I can not say my knowledge of dollars and cents has really gotten us any where. Thanks to out of state tuition we are pretty much in a gigantic financial prison. Which brings us back to why we are still trashy and fine with that. We absolutely could go to Costco and buy their leather sofa (special introductory offer, blah blah scheme). But we know we would just delay paying off our student loans and their steadily growing interest by that much more. I am sure we could 'qualify' for a luxury car. However not until 4 years of out of state grad school are pad off could we ever realistically 'afford' a new car. And even then, I d have to save up and buy it not rent from a bank or a dealership.
we paid allot of money for this experience

This post is not meant to boast of my wonderful financial superiority, because frankly I am likely the most in debt of any out there. All I really refer to is the basics of living without luxuries, until our homes are really in order. Our society seems wrecklessly irresponsible with their own money, taking themselves farther and farther into debt. For what?, 4 wheelers, luxury cars, time shares, boats, what? Really what is so important to buy on credit, that you would risk your freedom, your financial freedom and stability for?!? I am hoping that the next craze will not be to have 'things', but to seek and obtain fiscal freedom.

Does anyone else wonder why or how American's can hypocritically point fingers at our fiscally irresponsible government. Our government is led by Americans; Americans that spend their own money at an average of 22 cents more per dollar then they earn. Why would they change that at work? How do people rationalize purchases they cant, and will possibly never be able to afford? What happened to saving money? "A penny saved is a penny earned" wasn't that said by an American? The short guy with beady glasses and a kite was on to something . . .and not just light. (my wife was referring to how even though Thomas Edison invented electic light, the short guy with the bifocals( Ben Franklin, of course) and a kite was on to electricity first, this he didnt invent light, but was just "on to "it, meaning making us closer to the invention. I know most of you are educated and understood what she was referring to, I just didnt want there to be any confusion)

My catch 22: reading

2007-12-30T19:18:00.000-08:00

Many of you know I started a goal in November to always have my nose in a book (on top of the scriptures of course). You can see my shelf and link to shelfari link to see favorites and other list. I have been doing great. Since then I have read: Angela's Ashes, The Secret Life of Bee's, The Old Man and The Sea, half of Measures of a Man, James and the Giant Peach with Madisen, and last night finished Kite Runner. I for some unknown reason cannot get my self to read the biggest thing since sliced bread- the Vampire series, twilight, eclipse and something. I next am going to read God's and Generals.

What is the problem. I apparently have no self control. I read 20 pages of kite runner earlier in the week. Last night I put the kids down and cuddled under my down comforter to read. At 1 am Ben came to bed (my husband), I kept on reading. 3:00 am Benson woke up, Oh yeah I rushed him to bed without giving him his last bottle. Poor kid he was so hungry. I fed him and cuddled with now him and my book under the comforter.

At 4:30 am, 3 hours from getting up and starting the race to prepare for church, I put Bence in his crib with a tear stained face. I finished the last chapter and quickly dozed of.

It is probably a good thing for my kids that reading is not second nature to me. they would be ignored hungry bedraggled kids. My question is how do you get immersed in a book, and put it down. I know I am going to get the duh Kim you put it down and turn of the light. yeah obviously that worked last night!!!!

So on that note. besides the vampire series and Harry potter which against my families desires I'm just not into it, any recommendations !?!

A Special Batman Birthday

2007-12-15T22:49:00.001-08:00

So Close.......yet so Far away

2007-12-11T00:18:00.000-08:00

Well, the title and picture say alot. Bryan Pack, Jason Swann, Jeremy Swann, Brian Kechter, Carmy Mausten, David Allum-Poon, and I enjoyed watching our old team getting creamed by the best team in the state. I had to say I have never been so proud to be on the losing end of a game that was over by the first play of the 2nd quarter. NCS runners up. Very impressive.

Probably the best moment of the night for me was to be at Nations after the game til 1 am with the boys, eating a fat and juicy burger, some chocolate cream pie, and talking about the good old days. Spread across the country, we made the trek to be together. I only wish Josh could have been there with us, that would have completed the Mormon bro's from SR2 on the squad. Memories were alive, and made real by the old after game hangout "spot".

As we were getting ready to leave, Jeremy asked the group of players(it felt like looking at ourselves 13 years ago) sitting somewhat dejectedly at the table next to us how it was to play against De la Salle. The Spalliero brothers were there(only know that cuz they are twins). Not sure who else but someone said "They're fast. Real fast. We had no idea they were that fast". The greatest thing was we felt like we were them. I felt connected to those guys. Kind of like they were my kid brothers who knew I was proud of them.(I feel really gay and sort of like BJ in writing this right now, but I will continue. It sort of makes me wonder if he was there. I know he would have been.) As we got up, I turned to the players and said, "Hey guys, very nicely done this year." I dont know if they felt how big of a deal it was to me and the guys I was with, but I have a feeling they did. Their appreciation for mine told me they understood. Honestly, if you read this post (for our 2 blog regulars)and you played high school football, you should be crying right now. It was that touching of a moment. If you didn't you are probably thinking I am a total nerd, which I definitely am, but you might also be wishing you were a nerd like me. It was a great moment and a great weekend.

I am probably being so reflective here because I got to hang with some of my favorite high school buds(been 13 years for some), and had just a fantastic time. But also, because I got to stay and visit with the Chestnuts, and visit BJ's resting spot overlooking the Lafayette valley. Great view he's got. Love ya dogg. Miss ya buddy.

SPIDERMAN (turns) 3

2007-12-10T20:03:00.000-08:00

It was an epic day. Madisen received more sleep last night then the rest of the family combined. Jeddy was suffering from some unknown ailment that made him yell at the top of his lungs until he woke his parents and baby brother up. Needless to say we started his birthday off on less then the right foot.

Once awake he was subtly reminded it was his birthday. . . .that started the race to kitchen. To his blissful glee he found a Spiderman scooter, and a t-ball set. He then asked why he did not receive the batman scooter ALSO.

he skipped breakfast and once dressed, immediately did a wardrobe change into something more comfortable . . .batman. Another crying fit came and ended with him falling asleep in full costume on our bed at 9:30. We somehow survived a trial run of his scooter at the park, visiting daddy for a office birthday song, lunch, and grocery shopping.

Spiderman was helpful enough to make his own cake (with some assistance from mom). we had to do something to occupy the time it took to cook and cool . . .so we watched Transformers. We then sat ourselves down to eat a gourmet birthday meal of choice by Jeddy, Mac N'Cheese. Against his wishes I made a veggie, and some edible food for the taller members of the family. Once enough dinner was heartily consumed we settled in to a t-ball game. that was rudely interrupted by the runs, I'm not talking RBI's either. Jeddy in tears and (yes you got it, but i wont type it) was rushed to the shower. We recovered from that and ended the white sox, verses red sox game. In lo of his stomach tender state we opted out of cake and will postpone that for a healthier day. Of all days to be up all night with cramps and ear ache, and an bad attack of diarrhea it had to be Spiderman's 3rd birthday.

Hopefully his Batman training camp (his party) on Saturday will make up for today's sourness.

A few things about Jeddy:

No fridge, dresser is to tall to climb, no stair is to high to jump.
princess dress ups aren't just for girls (sorry Ben)
I can never have to many Spiderman paraphernalia around.
The rules No throwing, kicking, hitting balls in the house are only rules mommy follows.
why walk when you could run, or "go fast".
He never let's his mom dress him, she does not meet his minimum style requirement.
he loves to dance, he is so good at shaking his hips and has the cutest two step rock. He loves to sing Newsies and Annie. He knows 'Its a hard knock life" by heart.
he buckles himself in the car, is potty trained, knows his ABC's and the BYU Cougar fight song.
as you can tell from the picture he's got perfect baseball form.
Has serious issues with wearing the wrong shoes for what he is wearing.
He always packs his backpack full of 3 or 4 toy bins, and we go from store to store running errands with a backpack that he lovingly lugs that is heavier then him.
Is quick to say sorry, but quicker to be rough and tumble or jab your eye.
Has the cutest bum in underwear, he will proudly display it for you too.

Jeddy Happy Birthday, you're a big 3. We are glad your in our family

Bad day at the Office

2007-12-06T23:31:00.001-08:00

This is a great Belly Laugh! Thanks Steph for the sending it!

Opinions on Mitt

2007-12-03T12:40:00.000-08:00

I have read several articles, and watched a few debates. I do like Mitt, I am on his campaign committee or fan club . .something like that. I do have to say after watching this last you tube debate I was left with a sour taste in my mouth. Mitt seemed to answer too many times with basically "I cannot say exactly . . . I would have to get the highest qualified around me and we would discuss it and make the best decision". I do agree with that format of operation. However, after several boo's from the audience and Me almost being able to predict his answer . .. I think he has to come up with some better answers and resolutions.

Let me know what you think or don't think. Republicans, Democrats, Liberal, Conservative your all welcome to comment, my 3 loyal readers.

How likely is it the Mr. Romney will get the republican nomination???

Jets to brazil, singing their sweet love song "sweet avenue"

2007-11-30T23:26:00.001-08:00

After hiking Kings peak I went to their show at a club in SLC. It was so great!

Samson by Regina Spektor

2007-11-30T20:29:00.001-08:00

I love this Lady, her lyrics, music, and videos are so hmmm. So something.
So simple yet powerful, very dramatic. She has many really good songs and fun videos.

hope you enjoy

Kim's Turn

2007-11-27T20:53:00.000-08:00

I guess it was bound to happen, I was tagged. and since my husband only knows 4 people that blog, me two of his friends and one of mine; I knew I wasnt going to get untouched.

so here it goes 7 things about me
1. I really enjoy cooking, I mostly enjoy having people over and enjoying good food together. I go to restaurants like bi-yearly. So if there is a dish I love, I just have to learn how to make it my self. for example, yummy chimmi's, avocado egg rolls via cheesecake factory (of course with the 27 ingredient dipping sauce) cafe rio burritos, my next assignment Tuscan Chicken Marsala.

2. I did an internship for my major at the State of Utah Department of Child and Family Services. I investigated sexual abuse against minors in Orem and Provo area. I learned many wonderful things. Dont let cousins sleep over together, not every mother loves her children, In many cases the state is too careful in ripping the poor starved abused, drugged child from its parents arms. I investigated a case that happened to be one of my best friends next door neighbors. Phew I am soooo glad it was only an internship and that I stay home, with my kids.

3. I really, really love Matt Nathanson. I was introduced by a friend of his in college, and have wandered the country since seeing him on each coast and states in between. Here is his web page. http://www.mattnathanson.com/ I have to say even if you do not like his music you still would LOVE his concerts. He is HILARIOUS. covers, spears, prince, Bon Jovi. really a fun time. Lots of F-bombs. so see him in Utah if you can, he caters to the sensitive ears.

His official VH1 video from his latest hit car crash

Hope you enjoy!

4. I have always dreamed and yearned to be a good singer. I am jealous and grateful of the beauty and power song can have. In heaven I will be able to sing at a fireside, or funeral and be able to bring the spirit in the room. Until then I will rely on my charm and wit.

5. Order is very relaxing to me, my order. I sort, clean, and arrange my cupboards, drawers and closets on a continuous basis. When I am stressed I will go in the kids room, dumb all the bins, tubs and drawers and place every polly pockets thing in the polly pocket drawer, all animals in the animal bin, pj's in pj's no gender mixing, and all tops must be hung up!!!!. I love to open my pantry and see rows of artichoke hearts, in the veggie section, and my tomato section goes from sizes of cans small to large. I really enjoy organizing and sorting. If you ever need someone to throw away, and go through thing I am your girl! But I rarely mop my kitchen floor . .oops.

6. I won first place in poetry for several years in elementary. I stopped entering in jr high, but kept writing until kids. I still have all my notebooks full of poems. I really enjoy putting taste and flavor to words. That said I can not spell at all.

7. I love the look in my kids eye's when they know they are doing something bad and I walk in the room. Hopefully I will always know when they are up to something. I was never a baby person, but I love my babies. Kids are wonderful

so now I tag Lizza, April, Christa, Loree (Kory your off the hook)

I think I got tagged by Matthew

2007-11-19T00:06:00.001-08:00

Okay, I am new to the blog world and am not even sure if I am doing what I am supposed to. We will see. I am finding it more and more interesting as I read other peoples blogs. I got tagged by my buddy Matthew Larson's blog and he said he was tagged by one of his favorite people, Wendy, formerly Wasden. As far as I can tell Matthew is now my blogging father and Wendy my blogging grandmother. All that is cool except that apparently I had a mini crush on my grandma in high school. Yikes. Maybe Matthew knows another Ben, and my heritage is now cloudy. Either way, if you have a few minutes, I guess this consists of me telling you 7 things about myself. What an easy way to enter the blogging world. I happen to be my favorite subject.

1. I am a dentist, and an aspiring Professional Surfer. The first one took me about 9 years of my life to achieve, so come 2016, you may see me on the Pro Tour working my way up in some surf competition like Maverick's or Pipeline. More likely than that, you will be reading my blog after reading my obituary after I was eaten by "Whitey"(This is my pet name for the Great White in my nightmares over the last 10 years or so). I have to say that I love both career paths. I especially enjoy hanging out with other dentist buddies of mine and discussing our latest Post and Core, or Root Canal. My latest fave is CAD/CAM technology in dentistry. It is totally sweet.

2. I live in paradise. I love Carlsbad. I dont know that I will ever be able to buy a house here, but it seems like a place I never want to leave.

3. I get offended easily and hold grudges at people who get offended easily and hold grudges. I am only serious about half of this statement. This is somewhat of a pet peeve. I actually like these people more than I used to. I used to just try and stay away, cuz I really like people who don't let things bother them. Surfers are pretty good at this. Unless they get really good and surf at Swami's, then I have found they get easily offended by guys who don't surf that well, and want you out of their ocean. Anyway, I think giving others a free pass is a much more pleasant way to live life.

I would like to describe the easily offended for a paragraph or so. In my experience they are pretty bright(intelligence wise, not necessarily countenance). They also usually have a low self esteem and I think partly leads them to go around looking for things to get bothered by. It usually makes them feel better about their miserable selves. Mostly they are introverts, but not always. I find that they have a bit of a jaded view of things, which can be rather entertaining. You can ask them about anyone in the room and find out a whole bunch of terrible things that make you feel better about yourself. But then when you are done talking to them you have to realize that whatever they know bad about you will also be shared with others. And you should know that in talking with them you have likely done something very offensive.

I personally think that people are generally good. I am usually more than willing to give someone the benefit of the doubt if they do something that could be taken as offensive. I dont know if anyone will read this blog, but I have intentionally been a bit offensive in this section, so that if anyone who reads it and gets annoyed at this post, will just take a look at themselves. Maybe they will check their blood pressure. Maybe take a Xanax. Maybe 2. Maybe think about their life and ask if some idiot newbie blogger is really worth being annoyed at. I mean come on, quit wasting your time. Get over yourself. Next subject.

4. I was built for speed, not strength. I am a huge Truman Madsen fan and i stole this quote from him. If you dont know who he is, you should become LDS and then figure it out. If already LDS, go to Deseret Book. Anyway, I am tall and skinny, and never have been very strong. It used to bug me when I was younger, in fact Br. Wing(a young men leader as a deacon) all 6'2" and 150 lbs of him said I wasn't quite strong enough to help out with a canoe on one of our scout excursions. That offended me back in my easily offended years. But since Truman, I have embraced my body type and appreciate that I may be a weakling, but at least I can run a 40 yard dash in in 5.1 seconds.(Anyone who follows football is probably laughing really hard at me right now.) Next subject.

5. In church I teach a class of freshmen and sophomores and surprisingly it is my favorite calling ever.

6. I have lived all over the country including Utah, Texas, Northern California, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Virginia, Nevada and now Southern California, and I am glad to be back west of the Mississippi. I do miss fireflies and Fall, but I have not used AC or a heater in my home since I moved here last April.

7. My life is starting to revolve around The Office. My favorite day used to be whatever day the weekend started. Not cuz I dont love what I do, mostly cuz I love doing other things more. Now my favorite day of the week is always Thursday, never an exception. And my favorite time is 9 pm Pacific. So that is me.

Okay,I now Tag Kim, Jason Swann, and Kory(who I don't know that well but she has one of the most entertaining blogs I have been on). I look forward to reading each of your 7.

love it love it love it

Madisen I love you

2007-11-07T07:56:00.000-08:00

Spotlight on a special Birthday Girl

My wonderful Little-big girl, Happy Birthday!
You are six years old!

Madisen Loves pink, mostly hot pink, but any hue will do.
She is very imaginative and creative. She spends hours of time creating cradles, swings, computers and everything other thing from paper for her dolls. She is having so much fun sounding out words and writing cards, notes and ideas on paper.

It is physically impossible for her to stand still, she must be jiggling, wiggling, waving. flaying or dancing of some sort. She is not the most coordinated person and we have lots of bumps, falls, and scraped knees.

Our six year old, knows everything, and will correct any one. You say "its the week end", "no, mom its Saturday". You say "that is a blue dress", Infacticly she responds "its not blue its aqua". She has an incredible mind and memory. But she is pretty stubborn. If she learned a couch is called a couch, then you do not call it a sofa. She memorizes all her books and songs, she sings along to all our Keane, Cold play, Dixie chicks, the new 1,2,3,4, song, and our new family favorite Benson lullaby (Rod Stewarts first cut is the deepest). When we started reading with her she would just read all her books from memory. So we had to get library books and not read them to her before we wanted her to read them to us.

She loves to be a good girl. It is devastating to her when emotional crisis occur or she makes bad choices. She almost tries to deny they are bad, because she does not want to be bad. As a toddler if I told her you are in time out, I could put her in the middle of all her toys tell her no playing and she wouldn't. She would cry and be all sad and wait for time out to end.

She loves guessing games, learning and knowing. She comes home and quizes me about fun interesting things she learned. Sometimes I just let her be smarter, and get all excited she taught me something cool.

Madisen's Interest

Pocahontas, but really all Indians. Since we lived by Williamsburg, and Jamestown's and Pocahontas state park. We read and studied these areas allot
Art, she loves to cut, assemble, build, make, but not with crayons. According to my kids the only thing you do with crayons are tear off the wrapper and break them.
Barbie's, Polly pockets and her American Girl doll's Jess and Kirsten.
She is a big fan of Lord of the rings, I have to research online information to satisfy her inquiries.
History, she loves to know how things worked, how boats developed from wood, to metal. The first phone was one way communication, then you went through the city operator, then they were in your home, then no operator to ring you through.
Musicals, newsies is her favorite, well maybe Anne is. Our family could put on Anne at any given time. my kids love it. Also Madisen is always putting on her own productions. If you listen she is always in dialog in some dramatic scene. (actually If any one can find Newsies let me know Id like to get it for her- I guess for Christmas now).

It is apparent by the many pictures posted here how beautiful she is I just wanted everyone to know how special she is.

How we spent our day of REST

2007-11-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

It was actually pretty nice to wake up and see 7:20 on the clock. Only because I knew we hadn't set it back an hour yet. So we were all awake happy, and had no rush to get ready for church. this is very monumental in our family. Jeddy broke and unwrapped all our crayons during sacrament meeting. Benson actually took a great nap during church. Madisen payed attention to peoples testimonies (mostly about the service during the wild fires).

we came home and it took 2 hours but we got the kids asleep or entertained so we could nap. I should say it took Ben, I just went in and feel asleep. He had to deal with poopy diapers and bottles.

We slept allot longer then anticipated, and were late for our dinner engagement at my sister Britt's house. The food was not ready so it was fine. We ate a great meal. the cousins ran around and played. Us adults played a game. The McEvoy team was cursed with whack questions so we officially are not smarter then a fifth grader. Two of our questions no one playing could answer or had a clue. And 2 more we were half right. We needed more questions like what color mixed with blue makes green.

The game ended and we were rounding up the tykes when Jeddy started crying (this is not unusual the boys usually have many disagreements and physical altercation as they play). So I went back to convince one of the boys to share. I got there to find Jeddy's head covered in blood. I really wished it was extra Halloween make up the kids had gotten into, but no it was official blood from my boy.

I yelled for Ben and took Jeddy to the bathroom, we left a trail. At this point he starts to freak, b/c he sees the blood from the mirror. Also it is now covering his face and all in his eye. I try effortlessly to wash his face and keep pressure on the wound. But I did not know where it was yet. Ben comes and Britt and Dave supply me with rags. Ben locates the wound its maybe 3/4 inch, nice straight skinny clean cut. His hair was red, my clothes his clothes and the bathroom were covered. Luckily Jeddy for some reason only known to him had changed in to not one but 2 of Mikey's outfits when we arrived. So the blood stained clothes are Britt's So i don't have to worry about it. (wink, wink)

Dave the marine pulled out his combat first aid kit. If needed we could have packed his chest, placed a tourniquet, clotted an artery, and saved his life from scrap metal. But it was only a plastic toy plane (if you ask Mikey and a green flashlight if you ask Jeddy), so we just needed super glue and some duct tape.

I could go on for pages on the emotional drama, the back and forth of how to care for him, and the details of the crime scene. Not that a crime occurred. We finally laid him down clean, bandaged and happy at 11pm (yeah slightly after bedtime). From his actions and vitality today you wouldn't think he lost any blood or sleep last night.

It was our first blood experience. We have had 100's of scrapes and cuts. Up to this they have been kiss and put on a Spiderman band aid boo boo's. I guess our experience of parenting a Wild and crazy boy is coming to fruition. I have heard with Boys you should expect an ER visit every year. so many more of these I suspect are in our future.

Our restful relaxing day, ended as such. Yet we were able to sneak in some great excitement and lots and lots of blood.

More then meets the eye

2007-11-02T23:13:00.001-07:00

I am not exactly sure how it all started. But I know this I am changed. One year for Christmas I received a toy car. It was a cute little yellow bug, named bumblebee.

Other Autobots were spread from child to child in our home year after year. But I loved my little bumblebee. My jet, triple-changer, and my little satellite from a happy meal have all safely made it to my brothers home, where they are currently under his care and on their way to a new fabulous life in Maryland.

I was so anticipating the transformers movie since the announcement years ago. And thrilled when they announced the voice of Optimus Prime would be none other then Peter Cullen, the voice from the cartoon series. I was devastated that I I couldn't see it until it's third week running. But I saw it. Ben took me out! I was giggling and crying and on the EDGE of my seat the whole time. One of my favorite parts is where Optimus prime transforms as he is speeding down the freeway to mission city. hello . .cool. Yet my heart belongs to bumblebee. No joke I seriously Cried when Bumblebee asked OP if he could stay with his human.

I realize this is probably not a normal obsession for a grown person, let alone, a female mother. Luckily for me my kids love it. So we go down the toy aisles now. I have trained them which ones to tell dad to get me for Christmas. We bought it and since have broken the family rule of one hour of TV MAX a day. oops!

friends and loved ones I hope you enjoy the Movie. I was not all that excited when Starbright, my little ponies and other child hood toys started to resurface. It made me feel old . ..outdated. But I relish and wade in the deep sea of transformers. I will end by using OP closing remarks.

With the Allspark gone, we cannot return life to our planet. And fate has yielded its reward, a new world to call home. We live among its people now, hiding in plain sight, but watching over them in secret: waiting, protecting. I have witnessed their capacity for courage, and though we are worlds apart, like us, there is more to them than meets the eye."

Beware neighbors

2007-10-28T19:19:00.000-07:00

My entire family spent Saturday at Disney (marketing) land. IT was so great to be together again. It was the first time in 4 years. Our first time together since Dad died. We laughed, peed our pants, waited in line and reminisced. There was one thing in particular that possibly I had forgotten but most likely have forced it from my recollection due to the flavor that my siblings reminded me of. We have not completely figured it out but I am followed, met and trailed by natural disasters.

In my childhood we traveled to foreign countries annually. They were usually warm, sunny, tropical places of serenity, relaxation and great snorkeling. Our first of these trips was to Cancun

Mexico

. We booked our tickets and the forces of nature aligned and a hurricane hit Cancun a month before we arrived. Most of the FEMA tarps were gone in the places we toured and lived.

The next year was

England

; we actually had mostly sunny days. We suspect it was unofficially a disaster, since most seemed unsure what to make of that big, bright orange thing in the sky for 2 weeks. And our family was held in containment for SEVERAL hours as “people of interest” i in a flea market robbery. Interestingly enough having souvenirs and new jackets put us in a separate bracket from all the other American tourist with souvenirs only???!?!!?!!?? Our family has healed and moved past this boring and confusing time as we were all questioned by the proper authorities.

Then we move into the Caribbean phase of our family travels. I could properly relay this information with a meteorology account from the 1990's. Can anyone recall the most devastating hurricane of the United States Virgin Islands? That would be Marilyn. Yes as soon as my parent sealed the dates, we again set nature’s pendulum swinging. We planned a great Christmas on the Island of Kauai, between purchase and arrival the devastating hurricane Iniki visited. Luckily our condo had no damage. So we chopped a palm tree down, decorated it, put up the stockings and celebrated our first warm Christmas. Anyone remember Gilbert or Hugo? These are not relatives but hurricanes. And we vacationed in their aftermath.

We move to Virginia, 2 hurricanes(one neighbors home pictured to your right) and one earthquake later we move (the earthquake was only a 5 or so, very tiny, but we felt it. Ben does not think I can count it. He is just bragging since he has been in big time ones in the bay area growing up. He wont count them unless he sees cars driving off bridges.).

In our 3rd winter in Richmond, Virginia we had 4 terrible Ice storms- unusual for as far south as we were. However we have no complaints because church was canceled 3 times. So now that we are in San Diego County my siblings are suspicious of the wild fires.

My defense on the matter is . . . .hmmmph. Well I am taking any explanation you all can offer on the subject. I would like to think it is because we are there in the after math to help with the plummeting tourism. Yet that does not seem to resonate very well.

My friends and family When the McEvoy's call and start asking, "how is the weather in Iowa", "do you like the schools in Maryland". Protect yourselves from the trailing of natural disasters that accompany me.

Do you Urdu? I do!

2007-10-26T19:57:00.000-07:00

this is for my brother।

I really do not Urdu but I couldn't pass up the chance to make my self look cooler then I am. Many of you know my brother is a Linguist for the Air Force (I might remind my readers it was the Air Force that saved us from Megatron). he basically learns languages so we never have too. I count 5, he doesn't think Korean still counts because he can only read, hear and write it and cant speak it or something along those lines. If I am at a Korean restaurant and He keeps me from sampling their specialty item, of Dog, or chicken hearts because he knows what blah, blah, blah means. I consider that a language you can cut a mark in your belt for.

Any way on to my point. as I delved into the online electronic world of blogging I found a way to write English and this program will translate it into Hindi script.
You say why does a crazy guy that speaks Urdu, Russian, English(somewhat), Spanish and Korean care about Hindi script. Well he really does and he will have to explain that to you.

So here it goes-
ट्रेवल साफे तो मेरीलैंड, इ विष यू ऎंड थे किड्स थे बेस्ट फॉर यौर फुतुरे।
यौर नेम इस क्रिस हट, यू मिघ्त वांट आईटी तो बे जैज़, बूट आईटी इस स्तिल्ल्च्रिस हट।

I will wait for further light and knowledge from my brother, to decipher my Hindi text.

Take it slow I'm new at this

2007-10-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

I have decided to join the world of blogging.
With how much I check my email. I just need to invest my time into blogging.
I am currently typing as the TV blares no updated news about the fires that are circling around my house. My friends dog is hanging out with us. And earlier a neighborhood thief ran in my yard and jumped my fence to the wilderness behind our house. so we watched a gang of boys track him and drag him off to the cops.
Not only is today a new technological day as I blog, but its the first time we have been ordered to stay in our home as we are showered with ash. My first time to have a criminal run through my property and be 'brought to justice' in my back yard. First time babysitting a dog in our house while his family spends their evacuation at Disneyland. cant wait to see what tomorrow unfolds

7 Blister's Later

2007-09-17T11:36:00.000-07:00

So in the crazy cool breeze of summer I had the strangest Idea.
I wanted to run more, get into races again and be in better health.
To support this notion I had an acquaintance I met once was training for the camp Pendleton half marathon.
So I decided then and there I could train and get ready in 2 month for 13.1 miles. My initial goal was to finish under 2 hours, my last half I finished in 1:43min. but 3 kids later I figured under 2 was good enough

Well that was the easy part . . .and the hard kept getting harder.
Many of yo know
I have a wonderful jogging stroller, and are thinking how great she throws the kids in and can go running.
HMMMPh, No! Shamefully I must admit I never used my great stroller to actually train. (it's mostly my great beach stroller and walk around with my Boys stroller)
To train with my stroller I would have to put 3 kids in a 2 seater and then therefore push 70 lbs up and down huge hills.
I am not that motivated. So that leaves me training when I have a sitter or husband.

So I usually run after the kids are in bed. I rarely sweat because of the cool crisp night air. I purposely dirt trails and the biggest hills around.
Well training didnt go so well, I was sick more then I wasnt. I have three kids and 4 people's schedules that over run my schedule.
So I went a handful of times, I worked up to 8 miles once and 3 6 to 6.5 mile runs. I would borrow friends dogs if it was going to be a real long or late run.

It was fun to be out and able to actually finish a complete thought. I then read more about the race and realized its BRUTAL. killer hot, steep grades, rocky terrain and my goal became just to finish before they closed the race.
So friday night I put my carbo loaded Motrin fed body to sleep at 9 pm.
Got up at 6 had some water bread, few strawberries and jammed to music as I curved trough rolling hills of Camp Pendleton.

I arrived got my power bar, new socks and insoles, hid my car key and set out for the race deck. I then realized as I was walking next to a perfectly toned, tanned fit, lady that I hadnt shaved in 2 weeks. I ment to save up and shave in the morning to help me glide through the air and run faster (it helps mentally at least).
As i got to registration and sign in I realized I was probably the only person there not in official running gear, armed with distance meter, gel energy packs, or an ipod. So I nestled in to the back of our 1020 mass start population. This is a marine base sponsored run so the vast majority of runners are active duty marines. I was a little if not completely out of place. So out of my element, unprepared, unshaven, and ready to be done I started my race. My hot, hot, uphill, rocky, hot, sweaty race

We climbed 1287 feet in the first 3 miles, and the average grade was 3. It was a long hard run, and I was pretty much done at mile 7 of 13.
Luckily mile marker 10 was blown down and I missed it. So when I got to mile 11 I was so relieved and picked up my pace. Luckily the last 2 miles were level or somewhat down hill. I kept looking for the balloon tunnel, the finish line, and it came not a foot to soon. I cooled down and tore my bloody shoes off, and wished i knew someone I could show my raw heels to.

So I did finish before the close of the race. I finished before 12 male active duty marines in my age bracket. How's that 1st lt Johnson ;-0. And I finished before all 65 to 70 year old male civilians and military, not sure that's so much to brag about . . .but there is not much more.

So I did it. I'll attach a link to the race results. Sorry dont have any pic's to send. Just picture me dripping w/ sweat, jk.
First is civilian result men then women, second is military men then women.

http://www.y-events.com/07cphalfciv.htm

http://www.y-events.com/07cphalfmil.htm

Solids, Tubes and Kindergarten

2007-08-28T11:38:00.000-07:00

So today was an epic day for our family.

Madisen started Kindergarten!!!!!
She wasn't even scared. She knows a little boy in her class already. He is our neighbor and they have played.
She is really excited about their classroom computer, "Mom did you see the computer, it comes with a printer"
"Do you think they will restock the paper, there is only 2 sheets?" I assured her there would be plenty of paper, and all her fears were gone.

We curled her hair and she picked out her favorite outfit. She got to pick anything for breakfast; and she went with- cold cereal.
Mom and Dad and the boys dropped off Madisen to school. She played for a few minutes then lined up to go in. I am sure it will come as a big shock to everyone but I think she is the tallest in her class, and almost a foot taller then some of the girls.

Jeddy is potty trained, thank goodness. It was a breeze, It makes me love him so much more to think of how simple it was to progress from yucky diapers to spider man underwear. We spent our special time today at the park. Jeddy climbed to the top of the curly slide and then had me help him jump off. Tomorrow we are going to practice the jumping while spinning his webs. His blond hair is getting longer and blonder. To continue his ear saga he goes in for surgery on sept 11. It will be tricky because Ben will be out of town that day. Not only tubes but His amazing Doctor (I wish we met him 2 years ago) is going to remove his adenoids. We are keeping a close eye on several symptoms Jeddy has. If they worsen He will need his tonsils removed in the near future.

The best of all is our cute smiley Benson. He is 6 1/2 months and 17lbs. His best feature is his adoring smile that he willingly bestows on any onlooker.
No grandma in Carlsbad can resist giving him some love. After school as i was preparing food and filling the dishwasher he started grunting while sitting in his highchair and smiling at his siblings. Since moving him on solids he gets a bit backed up. I got his cereal made and was mixing his fresh pear sauce I came
to the table. I was confused because he had 'food' all over him. So as I was sitting the cereal on the table to get a wash clothe i realized it smelled so bad. Then I remembered the grunting. With all this coming together in nano seconds I took a closer look at the 'food' all over him. His legs were covered, between his toes, on his chin and cheeks(both sets mind you), All over his left arm, both hands, chest and back. Not to mention the large puddle he was sitting in and the other smaller ones on the chair and floor. Yes folks my son was covered in poop, pretty much head to toe.

So I did as any respectable Mom would do. I called Ben to see how soon he was coming home. After no reply I wiped his hands off and carried him in his high chair out front and sprayed everything and one off. Benson loved the hose water and being outside. The best part for me is that I just finished scrubbing his chair clean. Double rinse and sanitized w/ alcohol. strapped it on the chair and strapped in Bence for lunch. I should have waited to be so clean!

so its been an adventurous day for us. I'll attach pics for those that dont believe me and for those that cant get enough of my darling kids.

Love Kim