Blogging is a great tool for keeping out of town Grandparents & other family/friends in the know & having a personal history of sorts. It also comes in handy when you need a good vent-fest, and you spill out your frustrations for all the internet world to see. And there are other times you want a pat on the back, so you post about an accomplishment (remember the my big 5K heard around the world?), and you know your blog-reading friends will come through big and give you much needed affirmations (in the form of comments of course). I do love blogging!
But I have been pretty perplexed as to why I am doing the blog anymore. I am not consistant, so each time I go to post I stop because I think there is just so much to "catch up" on. Also, on that note, do I even want to be posting about all the stuff we do as a fam, places we go, etc?
I don't know.
I love seeing what others do, vacations you go on, what keeps your family busy...but I don't really think that is the kind of blogger I want to be. At least not all the time. I want to chronicle some of our activities, but when I post most "family blog" type posts, I don't connect as much to it.I don't feel it.I don't like it. THERE I said it, I don't like doing a family blog! Love reading them, don't like publishing one. Whew, that felt good!
Maybe it is my overwhelming selfish, prideful side, but I get more into it when I am jotting down things that work me up, make me giggle, make me proud, bring out my gratitude, tick me off, bring me to tears, or whatever is getting to me AT THAT TIME. I was telling a friend this today, and she said "you're an emotional writer" and you know what, I thought that was the best compliment I received all week! Maybe it wasn't even supposed to be a compliment, but I felt good hearing it. I am EMO, and I'm proud of it! (again with the pride. I may have a problem. But I would like some eyeliner to go along with my new revelation)
For me it can't be as much about playing catch up on things we have done. It is too much pressure. This coming from the woman who has boxes of photos, including wedding & all 3 of my kids that have never been properly scrapbooked. Keeping memory books, virtual or real, has never been my strong suit. I want the blog to be fun again & to help me get things out & feelings down on "paper". (does the period go inside or outside the quotes? I can't remember) (I think in, but I left it out) It's gotta be about what is on my mind & why. That is why I want to blog.
I'm random, I'm weird, I can be a potty mouth, I'm a not-so-hot mess, I love, I'm dorky. Those are the things I want to remember about myself when I read my blog 60 years from now, rocking in my chair at the home. Er, maybe not those things exactly, but I do want to be who I am now so I can look back & see who that person really was.
That's what's on this little mind of mine today. Didn't really need to be written, but I felt like it.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Privacy please
I think I have decided to take the blog private again. Let's just say there is a convincing PSA on tv that scared me into it. If you have read my blog on private before, then we're good and I have your info already. If not, please leave me your email address so I can add you to the list of readers. (does it not sound a little snooty to say "readers" like I am some important blogger or something?) Anyway, leave your email if you want to see what shinanigans we are up to. I think I may even post more often, we'll see.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Older? yes. Wiser? ummm...
Last week I celebrated my 29th birthday. I figure it's a perfect time to jump back into the blog world-when I can write all about me! haha being selfish is funny.
Saturday night we were set to go to dinner with my parents & Jason at my favorite mall, Town Square. Mark arranged it to be done working with enough time we could get to the mall early to window shop for a couple hours. (because seriously Banana Republic, H&M, Apple, the options are endless. If only the money was, too. Hence, the window part of the shopping) We got the mall at 5:08 pm, and Mark says, "Well you're 8 minutes late, but I'm sure they'll still take you." I didn't understand. We were parked outside H&M, which happens to be right next door to the spa Eleven. Then it started dawning on me. I had an appointment at Eleven. I was getting a massage! Mark played with the kids at the park area & Apple store while I had a very relaxing & awesome hour. Heaven. The spa had a steam room that I tried out, too, but I don't know how people can breathe in those things! I felt like I was chewing on the air. There was cute hostess helping me out, bringing me water, that kind of thing. They also gave me a fluffy black robe & sandals to wear during my pampering. I felt so special & fictitiously rich.
We then had dinner at Claim Jumper with my parents & Jason. It was so fun! I always have a good time with my family, they make me laugh. My parents had already sent me a nice card (& gift) then brought me down a couple other nice things, and foot the bill for dinner! I really am too spoiled, but it's nice. Didn't get many pictures at dinner, so here is a fuzzy one of my Mom making Jaren eat a cupcake.
The next day, my actual birthday, I was woken up with breakfast in bed. It was the day of the Primary Program at church. It was such a sweet treat to see our 2 bigger guys up there singing about their budding testimonies. They also knew their parts by heart, and did a great job delivering them. It was awesome...not to mention only having 1 kid sitting with us in the pew was kinda nice. Jaren also had a talk to give in Primary, so Mark helped him get that all ready before church while I lounged. Sunday birthdays are good for lounging.
I got lots of Happy Birthday wishes at church, which really might be my favorite gift. I love when people remember it's your bday & are thinking of you.
After church I was holed up in my room for an hour while Mark & the boys made dinner. Mark told me to NOT come out no matter what I heard coming from down stairs. Chanel called during my sequestering, which was so perfect. We had the best talk & I felt like I could end my day right then & be happy. When they were ready for me Jaren came to get me. I followed him down the stairs & turned the corner into the family room & was surprised to see many of my best peeps! Sara, Mandy, & Lindsey all came out from Hender, Kevin & Jess, Diana & Brian, Winston & Suzanne, Josh & Donna, and our best Mountains Edge homies the Hess' also were here. That was a fun surprise. I love my friends. Another awesome gift!!
It was a great day for feeling like the queen of my castle. Notice the crown Mark got me & had me wear all night. I don't think he knows what a monster he is creating with all this thoughtfulness of his.
I have to spend this year trying to soak up all I can of my twenties, since they are almost over!! It's going to be a fabulous year.
Saturday night we were set to go to dinner with my parents & Jason at my favorite mall, Town Square. Mark arranged it to be done working with enough time we could get to the mall early to window shop for a couple hours. (because seriously Banana Republic, H&M, Apple, the options are endless. If only the money was, too. Hence, the window part of the shopping) We got the mall at 5:08 pm, and Mark says, "Well you're 8 minutes late, but I'm sure they'll still take you." I didn't understand. We were parked outside H&M, which happens to be right next door to the spa Eleven. Then it started dawning on me. I had an appointment at Eleven. I was getting a massage! Mark played with the kids at the park area & Apple store while I had a very relaxing & awesome hour. Heaven. The spa had a steam room that I tried out, too, but I don't know how people can breathe in those things! I felt like I was chewing on the air. There was cute hostess helping me out, bringing me water, that kind of thing. They also gave me a fluffy black robe & sandals to wear during my pampering. I felt so special & fictitiously rich.
We then had dinner at Claim Jumper with my parents & Jason. It was so fun! I always have a good time with my family, they make me laugh. My parents had already sent me a nice card (& gift) then brought me down a couple other nice things, and foot the bill for dinner! I really am too spoiled, but it's nice. Didn't get many pictures at dinner, so here is a fuzzy one of my Mom making Jaren eat a cupcake.
The next day, my actual birthday, I was woken up with breakfast in bed. It was the day of the Primary Program at church. It was such a sweet treat to see our 2 bigger guys up there singing about their budding testimonies. They also knew their parts by heart, and did a great job delivering them. It was awesome...not to mention only having 1 kid sitting with us in the pew was kinda nice. Jaren also had a talk to give in Primary, so Mark helped him get that all ready before church while I lounged. Sunday birthdays are good for lounging.
I got lots of Happy Birthday wishes at church, which really might be my favorite gift. I love when people remember it's your bday & are thinking of you.
After church I was holed up in my room for an hour while Mark & the boys made dinner. Mark told me to NOT come out no matter what I heard coming from down stairs. Chanel called during my sequestering, which was so perfect. We had the best talk & I felt like I could end my day right then & be happy. When they were ready for me Jaren came to get me. I followed him down the stairs & turned the corner into the family room & was surprised to see many of my best peeps! Sara, Mandy, & Lindsey all came out from Hender, Kevin & Jess, Diana & Brian, Winston & Suzanne, Josh & Donna, and our best Mountains Edge homies the Hess' also were here. That was a fun surprise. I love my friends. Another awesome gift!!
It was a great day for feeling like the queen of my castle. Notice the crown Mark got me & had me wear all night. I don't think he knows what a monster he is creating with all this thoughtfulness of his.
I have to spend this year trying to soak up all I can of my twenties, since they are almost over!! It's going to be a fabulous year.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
This is the life
I would say it is time for a little updating.
At the end of June we moved. Yes, let's hold all questions til the end of the blog post please. We didn't say anything about it to anyone, including our family & friends because we have used all your help on the previous 1 or 2 moves, and figured you needed a break. Also, to be honest, we were a little embarassed to say we were on the move again, even if it's a good move. I didn't even tell my parents, which was pretty dumb because they are always so supportive and understanding. I just wanted to draw no attention to the moving part. I was happy to have Mark & I do the whole thing ourselves, although it started to sound a little overwhelming. I had recruited Jason (my brother), who ended up narking to my folks, and boy was I glad!! They came all the way down from Southern Utah to offer their services on moving day. It was only them, Jason, & us, so they all got worked to the bone. The men packed everything in the trucks, and my Mom cleaned every room as we left it. The house looked perfect for the new owners, and all our stuff got moved to the new house after hours of work. It was a long day, and I know they all could have been doing way funner things with their time. I love my family. They are so, so awesome. I can't even say, so I'll stop before I cry.
So, the new house is great for us. We love just about everything about it. We are in the same ward and the kids will be in the same school. We tried to limit the changes as much as possible. It's a spacious house with lots of nice touches and upgrades. I know we will be very happy here. Maybe I will post some pics after it's clean enough. haha
After packing & stressing, I needed a little break. Thankfully, my classic Henderson girlfriends had planned a girls overnighter at Michelle's cabin in Pine Valley for the night after we moved. Michelle, Callie, Sara, Mindy, & I drove up to St George on Friday around lunch time to start our 24 hours of FUN! We started off on the right foot gorging at the Chuck-O-Rama, then spent the whole afternoon shopping at Tai Pan, Down East, & a bunch of other good stores we don't have here. After having dinner, we headed up to the cabin where we played games and talked into the early morning hours. It was PERFECT!! I know I have been so blessed to have them as my friends. We have all lived our lives and sometimes lost touch for short times, but then we reuinte and it is natural, easy, and fun. We act the same around each other as we always have, and we get each other. I couldn't stop thinking about how enriched I felt being around them all. I want to be better because they are all so inspiring! It was just the best. They are the best.
The next morning as we were all making Callie fix our hair cute we did have a little incident. It was Sara's turn, and as Callie was curling and fluffing, Sara got super lightheaded and passed right out. She fell to the floor, out cold for a few loooong seconds. The rest of us were trying to stay calm while shaking her yelling "Sara, Sara!!", but our voices were all raising a few octives in fear. About the time Michelle was about to call the ambulance, she came to. I felt bad because she was embarassed, but we were so relieved and happy she was allright! It scared the hell out of me! She has been my friend my whole life, and here I was thinking she was going to die because we were in the middle of nowhere and how are we going to get her help?! Okay, I didn't really think she was going to die, but it was scary.
We got one last yummy meal, St George style, at The Pizza Factory (lurve the breadsticks! yum!!) then came home. Even the drive home was enjoyable with these guys. It has never, ever gone by so fast! I hope we can make this an annual tradition, at least. I love my girls!!
What else...
I have been working a LOT. I've had quite a few buyers the last couple months. It is a welcome blessing, but it has taken a lot of time away from home. That's been hard. June was basically spent with me out working and the boys home with sitters. I hate that part. Between that and the move, they have all had various levels of unsettled-ness & seperation anxiety. They do not like it when I leave, even to the store. It's kinda nice because I think we all have learned a little more appreciation for each other. And it has taught me how much I can really handle as a working Mom. I definitely think there can be a good balance between the two, as long as I keep my REAL job as #1. I will not be able to do 5 transactions in one month while my kids are small, I found that out. But, I am confident that I can do 1or 2 at a time and still be a good Mom & wife first, and my kids wouldn't feel my absence. Good lesson to learn!!
Mark got called at our Elders Quorum President a couple months ago. (for all my non LDS friends, the Elders Quorum is the group or men that have the level of the Priesthood making them and Elder) It's a busy calling, with much more responsibility than I ever knew before. When it's someone else's husband in that calling it doesn't seem like that big of a deal. heehee He will do great because he has a real love of the people in our ward and his quorum. He is also hardworking, so I'm sure that'll help. So far the meetings and weeknight visits haven't bothered me at all. Really. I'm sure after a year or 2, it may wear thin.
Mark is also doing wonderful at insurance! I am so impressed with him. He has got a policy every day this month so far. That is pretty good! Everyone he has given an estimate, he has saved them money and they sign with him. I get overwhelmed by how much I appreciate this guy. He has taken on this new work challenge, and gone for it full force. He still does window coverings, too, to fill in the financial gaps until insurance covers all our bills. He works and works. And it's all for us. I am a lucky one.
Maybe it's because it's Sunday, but I am sure feeling overly grateful today, aren't I?
At the end of June we moved. Yes, let's hold all questions til the end of the blog post please. We didn't say anything about it to anyone, including our family & friends because we have used all your help on the previous 1 or 2 moves, and figured you needed a break. Also, to be honest, we were a little embarassed to say we were on the move again, even if it's a good move. I didn't even tell my parents, which was pretty dumb because they are always so supportive and understanding. I just wanted to draw no attention to the moving part. I was happy to have Mark & I do the whole thing ourselves, although it started to sound a little overwhelming. I had recruited Jason (my brother), who ended up narking to my folks, and boy was I glad!! They came all the way down from Southern Utah to offer their services on moving day. It was only them, Jason, & us, so they all got worked to the bone. The men packed everything in the trucks, and my Mom cleaned every room as we left it. The house looked perfect for the new owners, and all our stuff got moved to the new house after hours of work. It was a long day, and I know they all could have been doing way funner things with their time. I love my family. They are so, so awesome. I can't even say, so I'll stop before I cry.
So, the new house is great for us. We love just about everything about it. We are in the same ward and the kids will be in the same school. We tried to limit the changes as much as possible. It's a spacious house with lots of nice touches and upgrades. I know we will be very happy here. Maybe I will post some pics after it's clean enough. haha
After packing & stressing, I needed a little break. Thankfully, my classic Henderson girlfriends had planned a girls overnighter at Michelle's cabin in Pine Valley for the night after we moved. Michelle, Callie, Sara, Mindy, & I drove up to St George on Friday around lunch time to start our 24 hours of FUN! We started off on the right foot gorging at the Chuck-O-Rama, then spent the whole afternoon shopping at Tai Pan, Down East, & a bunch of other good stores we don't have here. After having dinner, we headed up to the cabin where we played games and talked into the early morning hours. It was PERFECT!! I know I have been so blessed to have them as my friends. We have all lived our lives and sometimes lost touch for short times, but then we reuinte and it is natural, easy, and fun. We act the same around each other as we always have, and we get each other. I couldn't stop thinking about how enriched I felt being around them all. I want to be better because they are all so inspiring! It was just the best. They are the best.
The next morning as we were all making Callie fix our hair cute we did have a little incident. It was Sara's turn, and as Callie was curling and fluffing, Sara got super lightheaded and passed right out. She fell to the floor, out cold for a few loooong seconds. The rest of us were trying to stay calm while shaking her yelling "Sara, Sara!!", but our voices were all raising a few octives in fear. About the time Michelle was about to call the ambulance, she came to. I felt bad because she was embarassed, but we were so relieved and happy she was allright! It scared the hell out of me! She has been my friend my whole life, and here I was thinking she was going to die because we were in the middle of nowhere and how are we going to get her help?! Okay, I didn't really think she was going to die, but it was scary.
We got one last yummy meal, St George style, at The Pizza Factory (lurve the breadsticks! yum!!) then came home. Even the drive home was enjoyable with these guys. It has never, ever gone by so fast! I hope we can make this an annual tradition, at least. I love my girls!!
What else...
I have been working a LOT. I've had quite a few buyers the last couple months. It is a welcome blessing, but it has taken a lot of time away from home. That's been hard. June was basically spent with me out working and the boys home with sitters. I hate that part. Between that and the move, they have all had various levels of unsettled-ness & seperation anxiety. They do not like it when I leave, even to the store. It's kinda nice because I think we all have learned a little more appreciation for each other. And it has taught me how much I can really handle as a working Mom. I definitely think there can be a good balance between the two, as long as I keep my REAL job as #1. I will not be able to do 5 transactions in one month while my kids are small, I found that out. But, I am confident that I can do 1or 2 at a time and still be a good Mom & wife first, and my kids wouldn't feel my absence. Good lesson to learn!!
Mark got called at our Elders Quorum President a couple months ago. (for all my non LDS friends, the Elders Quorum is the group or men that have the level of the Priesthood making them and Elder) It's a busy calling, with much more responsibility than I ever knew before. When it's someone else's husband in that calling it doesn't seem like that big of a deal. heehee He will do great because he has a real love of the people in our ward and his quorum. He is also hardworking, so I'm sure that'll help. So far the meetings and weeknight visits haven't bothered me at all. Really. I'm sure after a year or 2, it may wear thin.
Mark is also doing wonderful at insurance! I am so impressed with him. He has got a policy every day this month so far. That is pretty good! Everyone he has given an estimate, he has saved them money and they sign with him. I get overwhelmed by how much I appreciate this guy. He has taken on this new work challenge, and gone for it full force. He still does window coverings, too, to fill in the financial gaps until insurance covers all our bills. He works and works. And it's all for us. I am a lucky one.
Maybe it's because it's Sunday, but I am sure feeling overly grateful today, aren't I?
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Let's hear it for the boy
It has been an exciting time for our Jare-Bear. Last Saturday was he crossed over from being a Tiger Cub Scout into the world of Wolf Cub Scout. We had a little cross over ceremony at Floyd Lamb State Park for all our boys to celebrate their advancements. It was so fun, and they were so proud to move up.
Jaren getting his new Wolf bandana from his den leader.
Cub scouts has been a lot of fun. Really, much more enjoyable than I ever thought. When I was pregnant with Nathan and found out he was a boy, I cringed and complained that I would be a Den Mother for my whole life!! Now, I see that wouldn't be such a bad thing. We have done hikes, neat field trips, learned lots of things, and of course had our pinewood derby. Very fun!!
Here is Jaren earning his Tiger Cub badge a few months back. He was so proud. Now he can join the church pack next year already having his Bobcat & Tiger badges. Way to go Bud!
There were things we did besides scouts...his school had Mom's & Muffins last month. Moms get to go have breakfast with their kids. This year there was even a Hummer blasting music in the parking lot where Moms were encouraged to have a dance off to win an IPOD. Jaren really wanted me to, and I thought I should while he was still at an age where that didn't humiliate him. But, I did think it would humiliate me, so I didn't dance. (if you've seen me dance, you know it isn't elementary appropriate...hahaha) I love being able to attend activities like that, because that's the entire reason I am a SAHM. I feel so lucky to have the time to spend on school stuff.
And last, speaking of school, today was the last day of it. I know I've said this the last 2 years, and I will probably say it for the next 11. But I can't believe the kid is this old already! He just finished the first grade, I know it isn't super old really, but for me it feels like it. His first year of real school is over, and he is such a big boy! It freaks me out a little. I am so proud of him (so if you don't like hearing a Mother brag, you besta stop reading now). He finished the year reading at a 5.5 grade level and has made big improvements in his writing and story telling. He does well in math, too, although he doesn't love it. Most importantly, though, he has been a decent kid and a good friend to those around him. Other moms tell me all the time how sweet Jaren is to their kids, and what a good boy he is. (what happens at home beating up your brother, stays at home beating up your brother apparently)
Jaren & his sweet teacher. He is really going to miss her. Today he was sad after we left because he won't be in her class anymore.
Jaren & his best girl Taylor. They are not BF/GF, but I have heard talk of them thinking each other is cute. I would have to agree, they are cute!
Goonie kids. They are so goofy, but it works for them. We have loved all the kids in Jaren's class. I know we just had dumb luck getting him into a class with so many great kids. They all look our for each other and are good hearted. Can I add, too, that none of his class friends are LDS and I kind of like that? We have really broadened our scope of friends, and I think that is WONDERFUL!!
Another awesome kid, Dean. He & Jaren hit it off so well and are great buddies.
I'm so blessed to have this little man. He is funny & smart & good, taking after his Dad thankfully. I can't wait for all the experiences he has to come.
Jaren getting his new Wolf bandana from his den leader.
Cub scouts has been a lot of fun. Really, much more enjoyable than I ever thought. When I was pregnant with Nathan and found out he was a boy, I cringed and complained that I would be a Den Mother for my whole life!! Now, I see that wouldn't be such a bad thing. We have done hikes, neat field trips, learned lots of things, and of course had our pinewood derby. Very fun!!
Here is Jaren earning his Tiger Cub badge a few months back. He was so proud. Now he can join the church pack next year already having his Bobcat & Tiger badges. Way to go Bud!
There were things we did besides scouts...his school had Mom's & Muffins last month. Moms get to go have breakfast with their kids. This year there was even a Hummer blasting music in the parking lot where Moms were encouraged to have a dance off to win an IPOD. Jaren really wanted me to, and I thought I should while he was still at an age where that didn't humiliate him. But, I did think it would humiliate me, so I didn't dance. (if you've seen me dance, you know it isn't elementary appropriate...hahaha) I love being able to attend activities like that, because that's the entire reason I am a SAHM. I feel so lucky to have the time to spend on school stuff.
And last, speaking of school, today was the last day of it. I know I've said this the last 2 years, and I will probably say it for the next 11. But I can't believe the kid is this old already! He just finished the first grade, I know it isn't super old really, but for me it feels like it. His first year of real school is over, and he is such a big boy! It freaks me out a little. I am so proud of him (so if you don't like hearing a Mother brag, you besta stop reading now). He finished the year reading at a 5.5 grade level and has made big improvements in his writing and story telling. He does well in math, too, although he doesn't love it. Most importantly, though, he has been a decent kid and a good friend to those around him. Other moms tell me all the time how sweet Jaren is to their kids, and what a good boy he is. (what happens at home beating up your brother, stays at home beating up your brother apparently)
Jaren & his sweet teacher. He is really going to miss her. Today he was sad after we left because he won't be in her class anymore.
Jaren & his best girl Taylor. They are not BF/GF, but I have heard talk of them thinking each other is cute. I would have to agree, they are cute!
Goonie kids. They are so goofy, but it works for them. We have loved all the kids in Jaren's class. I know we just had dumb luck getting him into a class with so many great kids. They all look our for each other and are good hearted. Can I add, too, that none of his class friends are LDS and I kind of like that? We have really broadened our scope of friends, and I think that is WONDERFUL!!
Another awesome kid, Dean. He & Jaren hit it off so well and are great buddies.
I'm so blessed to have this little man. He is funny & smart & good, taking after his Dad thankfully. I can't wait for all the experiences he has to come.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Be patient with me
I cannot find a cute, wide layout for this dang blog. I keep changing it trying to find one I like, but they are all so busy & not my style. I did this one thinking it would be clean, but it is kinda ugly, too. I might change again soon. Watch out!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Link Love
I have neglected the blog (insert shocked expression here), and in the last few weeks I have been slackin other people have been making way better use of their time, doing really cool things. And I just have to share.
My great photog sister-in-law Jamie just revamped her website, and is back in the picture taking biz full force. She slowed down a bit because she was busy at home...something about having a baby boy 6 months ago or something. I don't know, sounds like an excuse to me. :) Check out her website for info about photo sessions & prices. I'm pretty sure for the right price, she will even travel from Phoenix to wherever you are. And she is good! Jamie Lynn Photography
Second, you know my little link on the side here that says Utahbubble.com? Have you taken the time to click? You might be wondering what it is about. Well, if you like Utah, but really like making fun of Utah then it is up your alley. Our brother-in-law created it to celebrate those things that are so flippin Utah. Check it out after you schedule your family photo session.
My great photog sister-in-law Jamie just revamped her website, and is back in the picture taking biz full force. She slowed down a bit because she was busy at home...something about having a baby boy 6 months ago or something. I don't know, sounds like an excuse to me. :) Check out her website for info about photo sessions & prices. I'm pretty sure for the right price, she will even travel from Phoenix to wherever you are. And she is good! Jamie Lynn Photography
Second, you know my little link on the side here that says Utahbubble.com? Have you taken the time to click? You might be wondering what it is about. Well, if you like Utah, but really like making fun of Utah then it is up your alley. Our brother-in-law created it to celebrate those things that are so flippin Utah. Check it out after you schedule your family photo session.
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