The trees have been changing and it is GORGEOUS. These trees are right around the corner. This is so cheesy, but it's this time of year when I met and started dating Jess, so every fall I think about that time. So many memories...Not much better than falling in love.




I'm doing the Art Masterpiece program in Bodie's and Brock's classroom. I love it - so much fun. I showcased Rene Margritte's The Return The kids had a great time with the art project. Here's Bodie's and Brock's...


I found this in my hope chest. I made this in 1999! (when I met Jess)
There were pictures (roomates, a little girl I was a nanny for, me & jess, from the camp I did that summer), a letter to myself, a letter from Jess, (made me cry) an email from my Mom, newspaper clippings, school transcripts...and a list of my 'favorites'. Pretty funny... (ex. Actresses: Winona ryder, michelle phifer, dianne keaton) I was reading it thinking, wha? It also listed the gas price at the time: $1.29!! Movies were $6-$7, milk @$2....



Aren't these Dahlia's beautiful? My sweet neighbor brought them to me last week and they put a smile on my face every day. When I returned the vase I learned that her flowers got frosted when we had a cold night. :( I'm lucky to have had the last of them! I also got a Matisse painting from her garage sale that I adore. I am kicking myself b/c I didn't stop earlier in the day to get the quilt I saw. Of course it was gone when I finally made it down there!


Life is 'full' as always (full of ups & downs, and you name it!) But i am grateful for it and for this journey that I am on. I loved General Conference a few weeks ago. I loved Pres. Monson's talk about living with gratitude. He said something to the effect that: It's a wise man who focuses on what he has. (rather than what he doesn't). Faith seemed to be a reocurring topic which I really enjoyed. So much that I really needed to hear. It was welcomed. I have been reminded that there is someone up there looking out for me. I've had a few experiences and Jess shared some with me as well that we know are not coincidenses . It was a special weekend.

Signing out with a picture of these knuckle-heads! Oh I love them so much, but they also drive me to the nutty-bin! Trying my best to feel only love. ;) (I need a re-charge!)

Today was a doozie.

(not taken today)

I am welcoming tomorrow. Jess will be home and I need him. And we have a date. This has become a weekly routine and I've loved it. It usually doesn't fall on the weekend, but whenever he has off... A while back I made it known that I needed him to devote some time to me... So I watched as he put "date w/ sara" on our google calendar and I love seeing it. We do lunch dates, evening dates, and sometimes dates with a boy tagging along. It's good. And I really need one tomorrow.

Why was today so hard?? I know I tried to fit too many things in... helped in the classroom (love Brock's teacher and the set-up she has going), then off to my class, a run OUTSIDE (our weather has been unreal!) Then, with tired children (bank, Michaels, Sams Club, & hot chocolate date w/ boys & a friend...I was so done by then though) We had been going 3.5hrs, straight from school pick up. DUH. *sigh*

I'm looking forward to this weekend w/ General Conference. I thought the General RS Broadcast was wonderful. I am coming out of a 'funk'. I don't know how better to describe it than that, but it feels good.

Going turn in early even though I have a ton of grading to do... I've become great at avoiding this. Not. Good.

There are so many layers to a person. So many layers.

The last few weeks have been a whirlwind. But it has been a good whirlwind. Quinn's services were nice. It was good to be around family and have the support of friends. Sometimes though, I just wanted to come back home and pretend nothing happened. But it did, and I can't change it. It is still hard to believe that he is no longer here, but I am OK with it. This experience has made me realize all the layers we have as individuals. There are so many layers that I have forgotten I even have -Some that I didn't want to remember I had. :) This probably only makes sense to me.

I went to bookclub the other night. No one is exempt of heartache, hard times, or uncomfortable things to deal with. It is so nice to talk to others and be reminded of this. We're not alone.

Kiddo's are calling - General Conference is on! :)

Squeaky Clean.
(need to keep better tabs on the dish soap during bath time.)









I had a great conversation w/ my sister today. (love you Dene') I was eager to hear about a fireside she attended where Sis. Beck was the speaker. Lots of lovely things to ponder...I especially liked the advise of breaking your day up into 3 'to do' categories.

1. Must Do (essentials for salvation)
2. Should Do
3. Want to do

This past week I was able to read my scriptures in the morning. It turned out to be a great day and very productive - It was different than reading them at night- I had the rest of the day to ponder what I had read... It's so easy to hit the ground running in the morning, so I'm going to make a conscious effort to get that done early in my day.

Jess and I took the boys out to ride motorcycles - just for about an hour. They get so excited and I love to just watch them. Jess was taking Wyatt & Brock on rides and then he rode up and told me to hop on, it was time to learn to drive. !? :) So I did as I was told and slid in between him & the gas tank. I was to be in control. So he showed me where my clutch was and the brakes & how to shift, and then told me to take it easy so I wouldn't throw him off. I liked the wind in my hair, the power underneath me & my mans hands on my hips. (I could tell he didn't like not being in control one bit though! ha!)

Yesterday the boys and I got home from a delightful (NOT) trip to Sam's Club. We were the main attraction/freak show for the day, I am sure. Brock basically went into hysterics when he put his quarter in the candy machine and a little boy came up and stuck his hand underneath to catch the candy -some fell out and went all over the floor. It was bad. Then both Bodie & Wyatt lost their quarters to the gum machine & I was doing my best to calm everyone down, keep my composure and get the heck out of dodge!!!! Ladies were trying to throw me quarters as I tried to act like this was no big deal. :) To top it off, I ran Bodie over with the cart in the parking lot (literally -he went down, face first & even lost his shoes) Poor guy... We made it home - Brock finally stopped crying after a pep talk when we got home and I was sitting in my front yard -contemplating that mess. Then my neighbor comes across the street and hands me 4 tickets to Pickin' in the Pines! Suddenly things were looking up!! I got a backpack together of snacks & water, threw a blanket in the car and we were off to the fairgrounds. (sorry, no naps that are badly needed) It was a great 2.5hrs. The boys were able to run free & play & dance to some bluegrass. I LOVED the band Crooked Still. Whew. Yay for happy endings.

Goals for the Week:
-get all my grading for my class done (yeesh)
-Get a date on the calendar to get to the temple w/ Jess
-Get my scriptures read in the morning
-Get my pants hemmed (it's only been a few months) and a few articles of clothing mended.
-Go on a date w/ Jess...

Looking Forward To:
-Having Jess Home Wednesday (he'll have worked 4 days in a row...straight)
-Possibly going to see Old Crow Medicine Show
-Seeing my parents (I think they're coming through)

Wyatt is now riding a bike. He has been wanting to FOREVER, and now his little legs are finally long enough to turn those peddles. Watch out world. He has found his independence. I was watching the boys ride in the street, and there goes Wyatt down, down, down...and he just keeps going. I call for him to stop and that little turkey just turns and flashes me his devious smile and peddles faster and turns the corner! I took off in a sprint -which isn't fast at all- and finally caught up with him! Where did he think he was going!? I'm sure he didn't care - he just has a new set of wheels and wasn't gonna waste them! He also has been trying out Bodie's jump. He gets enough speed to get up it and roll the front tire off. He's growing up too fast. He is talking more and more and his little personality is really coming out. (Not that is was ever lacking, heaven knows, but it's like - dang, this kid is funny.)

This afternoon we were driving home and we were stopped at a red light near downtown. There were 3 guys waiting to cross, and Brock rolls down his window and calls out: "What's up Guys?" The light turns green, we are passing each other and Brock calls out again: "What's up Dudes? What's up Dude's?" Then he starts rambling off What's up dog? What's up Cat? Back and forth, back and forth. What a crack up. -At least to me it was.

Bodie was hounding me about something and my answer was 'Maybe'. We have talked about the word maybe before, which means the answer may be yes, the answer may be no... So on this instance, after I said "maybe" (which I was really meaning no) Bodie looks up at me very earnestly and says, "Mom, can I take that as a Yes!?" That made me smile... and I told him, Yes.

We have already discussed Halloween. Oh boy -how am I going to manage this? Bodie wants to be a skeleton, Brock the grinch (how fitting) & Wyatt the Big Bad Wolf! (he is so obsessed w/ hearing that story every night) But I better get on it. I won't lie - I am most excited for Brock's. Oh ya, and they said I could be a witch...w/ a broom. *funny*

The other day I was trying to read and the boys came in my room and attacked me -tickling me to the d e a t h. This has never occured before -nore would I have ever thought a 2 year old could have me paralyzed in a laughing fit with his little fingers. They were merciless. But it ended with them all knowing who was boss! :)

Looking forward to sleep tonight. The house is nice and cool. It was a warm one today!

Jess & I went out last night. A lovely few hrs away from our parental duties...
We drove through the quaint streets of our downtown and decided on Thai.

After an indulgent meal of yellow curry, orange chicken & brown rice we strolled thru Heritage Square to listen to the live music... One of the galleries has a photo booth.

s. "Hey, we're taking pictures."
j. "uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh" (trying to avoid the demand)
s. "Yes. c'mon! I love these things!" (it'll be FUN attitude)

I finally get him inside the booth, only to realize it WASN'T working! BUMMER.

But not so much, because we have a little 'photo booth' of our own at home... He soooooooo did not want to do this. (hence the sticking out his tongue.) He's a sport, and I love the kid.

Goals this week:
-Get my closet cleaned out, devise a plan, execute! (wait, didn't I have this one like MONTHS ago?)
-Make dinner for a family with a new baby
-Plant some GIANT sunflower seeds. hmmmmmm. Where to put them?
-Get visiting teaching done
-Be 'present' with my boys & conquer my calm.
-Read/Listen to an old conference talk

Looking forward to:
-Camping for a night w/ Jess & the boys! :)
-Sunshiny days by the pool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-Father's Day!!!

The many faces of Brock...


(he has blueberry all on his face... we were making a shake. Alright. This last one - wha? This will be his picture for when he attends *cue music* FAME school! )

So, we had a good week -even with Jess gone to Baja! He is on his way back and will be in my bed by the wee hours of the morning. Mmmmmm.

I have been loving yard work. This is really my favorite time of year. I mowed twice this week while Jess was gone and got my front flowerbed cleaned up and added to. I feel like I'm finally starting to figure this stuff out. I would much rather be outside. And my seeds in the garden are all starting to come up! Exciting, but my cucumber and watermelon plants already bit the dust. Fare well. :( I just took some pics - so I'll post those tomorrow maybe. (mostly for you Marilyn cuz I know you appreciate them!)

I am dying to get some alone time in Target! I was there recently but didn't have any time to look around and have an eye feast. I saw some sun hats in the dollar section. DEFINITELY need one of those! My poor face.

Guitar playing has been more frequent lately. Learning some songs that I really like -Haven't written anything lately -well, actually finished up a song -but don't really feel like it's done yet...
I really want to get serious about learning piano...Wished my sister lived near to teach me... I have books...

Looking forward to spending a few days at my Mom's this week w/ the boys and can't wait till Dene' gets back to the Sunshine State for a few weeks! We're going to see the Indigo Girls! WOOHOOOO! :) Always good to have something to look forward to.

I feel like my life is getting ahead of me a bit. My boys are starting to be their own people...instead of extensions of me. It is fascinating and sad at the same time. But part of life I guess. It is seriously so funny listening to them talk in the car, or in the backyard playing pretend, or talking on the phone to one another. Ya know, those 'sweet' moments. Not the ones where they're drop-kicking one another or smacking the other in the face (or privates!) That is a serious no, no. One of the boys I used to watch when I was in college just graduated this past week! Oh, he is such a handsome feller & such a nice, great kid. But I still can hardly look at him and not think of that little pudgy 5th grader. :I And then I think -holy cow -my boys are gonna be like this before I know it.... I hope they're 'such nice, great kids'....sometimes I wonder when all I hear them saying is poo poo head and the sorts... (a little help here -what do I do about that??)

Sigh. That's about it. Putting the kiddos to bed and about to clean up shop. :) Love to all 'out there'. Oooo. (that reminds me) Just watched (this afternoon) the CES Broadcast Elder Bednar gave last month. He is so eloquent with his words - check it out if you have some time. The topic is very current for these times. I loved it.

This past weekend I went to visit this chic-a-dee. Long story short, I pretty much invited myself to stay with her! I'm awesome like that. We have developed a friendship through blogging. We went to college together, have mutual friends -but haven't gotten to really know each other until the last few years -via the world wide web. I love living in a time where such things are possible! I love blogging/email/facebook for this reason. It's so easy to CONNECT. We are lucky.

The weekend was lovely and relaxed and I am so grateful for the hospitality shown to me... I really enjoyed hanging with this little 'growing' family. I love learning from others examples. And, I already have Wyatt betrothed to this bundle of joy. Not even kidding. She melted my heart.


And it was so nice to know things were just fine w/out me at home thanks to Nana and to Jess. I know I am very lucky.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

So now I am trying to play catch-up with life. Here are some thoughts.



-I met the sweetest sisters on the flight back home. (We sat by each other). They must have been in their late 70's at least. I am grateful that I am becoming better at making conversation -life is so much more interesting that way.

-I am really in love w/ Jess. We go through rough patches on occasion (Well, I suppose I do, I don't think he has ever had a rough patch! Ha! Is this true for you too? Is it a Mars/Venus thing??) but overall I think we have it pretty good, although it takes a conscience effort sometimes. :) I am grateful for this life and for the opportunity to work on ourselves... our being, and our relationships.

-I spent 3+ hrs. OUTSIDE this afternoon turning the earth over in my humble garden and working in the yard -trimming the grass, pulling weeds etc. The boys and I all got in our bathing suits, lathered ourselves in spf, and enjoyed the warm sunshine on our skin while we worked. The winds were calm. It was a celebration. I had LOADS of laundry to attend to, and floors to mop - but I wanted to be outside. I love working in the yard. We took a late lunch break and ate on the front porch swing. (The manuer stench is dying down...Jess covered our yard yesterday...I didn't think I was going to be able to handle it) As I sat there w/ Wyatt I got so excited for summer. This is hands down, I decided, my favorite time of year. Life is in the air. All is well.

-One of my closest friends from high school just moved into town! I can't wait to share this little city with her and her family - the city I have come to love, adore, and be protective of (if that makes any sense) over the last 10 yrs. It's hard to believe I have been here that long. It's just all around exciting.

-Sometimes it's really hard to juggle motherhood and a small business. But I am grateful I get to attempt to juggle.

-Lately I have looked at my boys and thought, "Dang, these are MY boys." or "He was actually in my tummy at one time!?" It is almost surreal. Life is amazing.

Goals This Week:
-Boys room, our room.
-Laundry
-Redo my calendar for May-stat!
-Get organized -mostly my head!

Thanks be to my MIL for suggesting I play music tonight. It was one of "THOSE" days...and I really needed this therapy...and now I am THAT much closer to a new song. I put this up on Facebook too -do you facebook? I love it.

(probably will have to hit *pause* on the music player at the bottom of the page)



Yesterday I went to my music partner's house and we worked on one of her songs -she is good, and I can't wait to hear the finished version... and it made me want to get on track again with my own music. Afterwards Jess and I bowled for Big Brothers, Big Sisters (with the boys in tow... we could barely keep Wyatt contained and from running and sliding down the lane) I think I put up a whopping 70 points. Um... It's been awhile. I definitely could've gone for a second game -it was a lot of fun. And THEN we went out for Thai (w/out the boys) w/ Jess's crew from work and their wives. It was a lovely evening. Downtown is very fun in the evening. -Several places have live music -after dinner Jess and I bought truffles and met up w/ our friends again at "Rondevous" where they were having a drink. A gentleman was playing music next to us. It was soothing and wonderful "background" music. I chatted w/ him a bit, and told him that I'd love to do what he was doing someday, not that he really cared. Fun night.
Horrible next day, but ended on a good note. :) (punn intented)

Tomorrow is Jess's b-day. He wants truffles. :) I can do that. Then Tuesday is our 9th anniversary! NINE. Wow. It's almost hard to believe. We are in a good spot. I am in love. We work hard at our marriage. (emphasis on hard)

Goals this week:
-continue to keep the house clean -it has been a miracle past week! Something is starting to finally click!
-Re-do my calandar
-Get "work stuff" done

Looking forward to:
-Celebrating the husbands birthday
-Celebrating the day we committed to one another
-Seeing the in-laws
-Helping out in the kids class
-WHO ARE WE KIDDING - The Bachelor finale! :)

NEW haircut - but not really... It always seems to be some version of the 'bob'...
I tried to get away from it this time, but alas. Here we are again. Me and Bob. :)


I had two, WONDERFUL, l o n g, talks with girlfriends (that I don't talk to that often) this week. And they both were just what I needed. I need to pick up the phone more often!
CALL A FRIEND TODAY! :) Be open and honest. You will be glad!

Well. It is snowing, snowing, snowing out! We woke up to a beautiful few inches, and then it started up again a few hours ago. The choir sang in church today. I love being in the choir. I finally am making the effort to get to 8am practices, and so glad I am! Tough, but I can do it. I love Sundays. Especially when Jess is home...He is making us a fire right now so we can get toasty and warm. They are mellow days -and currently my "free day" (as in eat whatever the heck I want) Today I've indulged in guacamole and chips and ice cream. And cereal. (A new favorite, honey KIX).
I also am currently loving Mondays and Fridays. They just seem more mellow too. (No school for the boys, I get housework done in the mornings, then we all go to the club...I like routine like that)

Last night I went to dinner with some roommates I had in college (for a WHOLE semester before I went and got hitched) It was really fun reminiscing, and holy cow how I laughed - I still can't get out of my head a few 'most embarrassing moments' shared. Whew! And I got to meet a new little girl -Meg. Love that name! My favorite girl name right now is Leah. Just in case you wanted to know. Because someday I might, just might, have myself a little girl. Leah Maier. It works. I also got some good idears for VaLeNtiNeS. Whoooooooooo. HOt dawg! :) Jess already spilled the beans on what he got me. (He actually got me something people! I feel my work with him is progressing.) The other night I told him I was getting my hair cut and asked him to look at some pictures of what I was thinking, to give me some input...and he gave me this funny look...I asked him 'why the funny face'...and he ended up telling me that he got me this package deal for V-Day -hair cut, wax, pedicure, massage, facial.... I really wasn't quite sure who was telling me this at the moment...certainly not MY husband. And do you know what I asked him? "Who talked you into that?" I just knew it wasn't his idea...too out of character. And then he said that some ladies from this salon stopped by the Firestation. FUNNY!! Nonetheless I thanked him profusely (can't wait for it all) -but told him he's not out of getting me a card -Because that's all I care about -a nice, heartfelt card.

Goals for this week:
-Get organized
-get the Laundry under control
-Wash my walls, Dust EVERYTHING.
-Get Valentine's for the boys' classes. (Can't forget!)
-Get Jess's v-day present

Looking Forward to:
-Skiing w/ Jess (hopefully it works out)
-Practicing guitar w/ a friend...we're gonna be playing at a benefit dinner/silent auction
-Helping out in Bodie's class. (Last week Bodie asked me to stay in his class and I told him I was staying & helping next week, but I was so happy he likes it when I stay and help. Then he said, "Ya, but I like it when you leave too.") .... oh. Way to burst my bubble, buddy!
(HAPPY B-DAY ABBY on the 13th!)
-Valentines Day
-Getting in a Bikram Yoga session on v-day. That will be my present to myself!

F. Y. I.
To all who participated in my little poll....

Guy w/ the cutest legs (that I'm hangin' on) FINALLY cut his locks....
It's about the length it is in this pic (not that you can really tell w/ his
hat on and all) and he is lookin' GOOD! (still long enough for some curls)

I am loving the Resolutionary Challenge I am doing... It feels great to
be taking care of myself again...(mind, body, spirit)

Saturday I attended a sweet little family's sealing in the Snowflake Temple.
I almost backed out of going because I felt I had too much to get done that
day...Wow. I am so grateful for the experience I had, and the renewed testimony
of my faith. I came home and my babysitter had gone ABOVE and beyond her
duty -the boys' room was totally cleaned -their closet was ORGANIZED, she made
my bed, had lunch cleaned up, the dishes going, etc......and the boys were still
alive and happy. It still makes me cry -Did she even comprehend what a load off
my shoulders that was!? I found her at church to give her a heartfelt card and could
barely thank her w/out tearing up...and then I couldn't talk (poor girl)....is my period coming?

Goals this week:

-Clean out car (again) and KEEP it clean!!! (this is HUGE)
-Get to the temple w/ Jess
-Work stuff
-Go to the library again w/ the kiddos -we had a fun time last week...needs to be in the 'routine'.
-Get mi madre's b-day present 'wrapped up' (Mom -it's not gonna be ready until post b-day)

Looking Forward To:

-????
-Watching 'Lost' w/ Jess.
-Whatever the week brings...

(wearing the earings Jess brought back for me)

"I can't wait to talk to you about your trip." I told Jess as he was getting ready to leave for work. It was quiet and dark -the morning light had not yet come through the bedroom window. And the kids were still slumbering...
He kinda smiled as he reached for the moleskin travel journal I gifted him for Christmas. (thanks be to Ryan for the idea) "This will tell you more than I will probably be able to." Which is so true. Getting that kid to open up is like trying to get miss piggy into a pair of skinny jeans... it just doesn't happen.

How happy am I that he actually wrote in the thing and enjoyed the process!! Boy did he write! More than 2 dozen pages were filled in his script.

I curled up this afternoon, hot chocolate in one hand, the journal in the other, reveling in the details of his trip. mmmmm. It was nice. It makes looking through his pictures that much more fun. Now I can't wait to really talk about his trip with him...maybe Tuesday night.

*

The boys and I were actually early for church, which is a miracle. We still have the 9:00am slot, and apparently always will... Which I really prefer, but man a year of 11am would be a nice break! Being able to pull my hair back in a bun now sure helps shave off several minutes. And cold cereal!

I was in charge of Sharing Time for jr. primary. Oh, it was a DISASTER!!! How could I forget I was teaching 3-6 yr olds???? What I had prepared was definitely for an older age group. And I tried to involve my class -but we had no time to prepare before hand, so it was a little crazy. Sorry kiddos! Ohwell. I don't think they really cared. BUT. A quote I used that I can't seem to get out of my head -by Ezra Taft Benson... "The most important friendships should be with your own brother's and sister's, and with your father and mother. Love your family."

Time to upload pics off of Bodie's camera...

W O W. (ever notice that's mom upside-down?)

Sometimes at night after I get the boys down I am impressed at how much I can get done in such a short period of time. This is on the RARE occasion that I have a burst of energy after 8pm. Usually I am spent. Drained. Wrung-out... And then I just want to turn to food to make it all better, but it really doesn't - it just turns to self-loathing...*But that is a totally different topic, but thankfully one that I am finally facing*...

Burst of energy. right.

It hits, but I don't know if it's a good thing, because then I want to stay up into the wee hours of the morning, getting stuff done.

A dilemma of motherhood I suppose.

I need a burst of energy tonight because I'd still like to:

finish getting the Tree (Chrismas) put away, vacuum, prepare for a meeting tomorrow, and 'put the house to bed.' I did tackle the laundry room and cleaned out the boys' drawers & closet this evening. Which is pretty monumental in an of itself. The PILES!! I did make a mental note to try to get two uses out of each of the boys' articles of clothing before washing. To at least check if something can be worn again.

Lately I have been questioning whether or not I can really handle these BOYS. They seem to be getting crazier by the day and their energy, um, hyper-ness, is never ending. I really do utter the words "how?" often. and maybe a few other things. Sometimes I think, "Am I seriously dealing with this right now? or "Is this normal!?" And sometimes I think they're going to kill each other. TWICE tonight Wyatt got decked in the head w/ a large, hard plastic train (once by each brother) -1st in the back of the head, then in the face -it got his eye pretty bad. :( (see below) And it's hard to spank them because they just laugh, (they LAUGH!?!) so I find myself yelling and that doesn't do anything except make me feel out of control and mad at myself. *a little help here.* And I'm in panic mode because Jess is going out of town for a good amount of time and I already feel like he should be coming home from a long trip & I'm at the end of my rope... I've been trying to prepare mentally, but it's been hard. It'll be okay though. It always works out. I've always just been in a better place before he leaves! Does anyone else want to give me their sob story about being a single parent 90% of the time so I don't wallow in self-pity, please?! Please?

Here's a pic of Wyatt's eye:

On a happy note - I have been taking care of myself for the last 10 days and it feels great. One of the biggest changes I've made is to CONSCIOUSLY drink at least 64oz of water a day -This comes out to 4 glassfuls (I have a certain cup). It's do-able!! And I can't believe I've been depriving myself for so long. I was bad about getting water down-or any liquids for that matter. And the crazy thing is, now that I've been drinking more water I find I am actually thirstier. (I remember this from when I ran CC in HS and was good at staying hydrated) Anyway. My skin feels AWESOME.

And I've re-discovered my down-booties. My feet are happy. And toasty. And that makes my husband happy, because then he doesn't feel my icicle toes on his legs when we go to bed.

Bodie's b-day was pretty awesome. He said he wanted a chocolate cake w/ sprinkles...I saw he had a bakugon in his hand, so we decided to make it a chocolate cake w/ sprinkles w/ bakugons...I looked on-line and found a homemade cake that looked do-able. We had a lot of fun making it together - Bodie decorated the bakugons and was pretty proud of them.

(this is the funniest pic of him, and he looks 20yrs older than he is, but I'll take it.)

The finished product. Not too bad for a last min. decision! It's a fun one. (And totally NOT my brainchild)


The cake was from a box (2 actually), but I made the frosting and it was perty yummy. I doubled the recipe to ensure I had enough for the triple layer cake and cake balls... In case ya want to know:
Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream together w/ the paddle:
-4 sticks of butter (I KNOW -YIKES)
-2 boxes of cream cheese
add:
-4 tsp. vanilla
-8 C. powdered sugar
-1 C. of hershey's powder (maybe more?)
-some milk...4 TBSP. ? again, not too sure - just to get it to the desired consistency.

Bodie was soooo happy and excited the whole day. For dinner he wanted pizza "from the box" :) Then we went downtown for 'winter wonderland' and the lighting of the trees in Wheeler Park. (not too exciting) and then came back home for cake and ice cream...

He FINALLY got a Ben-10 watch...he's been wanting one FOREVER, and his excitement over it didn't disappoint. Dad and Brock got him a BIG bakugon...he has a little one that he always carries in his pocket...it's pretty funny the things these kids get into and what we parents have to learn...Bodie was also so lucky to have both sets of g-parents up...He felt pretty special, and is still on cloud 9. :)
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Jess is working today. Such a bummer on Sundays. My parents came to church w/ us (that totally worked out in my favor! phew!) After they left for home, the boys and I set up the Christmas tree...It was a lot of fun. Bodie and Brock (Wyatt went down for a nap) were really into it -seeing all the ornaments and putting theirs on the tree. It feels good and festive to have it up finally. Jess set up our outside lights a couple days ago and I love that too.

(Steve made me the grapevine tree on the porch)

I half-way thought of taking the kids to the church to watch the First Presidency's Christmas Devotional, and then it clicked that I could watch it on-line. What a treat! The boys were busy doing their thing, and I was able to attentively listen. I was truly EDIFIED...and loved each one's message...To have a conscious, committed effort to bring Christ into our lives and homes this season and to give meaningful gifts, gifts that draw our hearts to the Savior, and gifts of service...to think of those in need. We have always been modest in our gift-giving to the kiddos, but I am excited to have a fresh outlook. I love this time of year. I love the music. I love the feeling in the air. I love the LIGHTS, and the smells, and the FOOD, (although I wish I didn't) and the get-togethers, and I love my Savior.

Goals this Week:
-Get gifts figured out (especially on a budget!)
-Get Christmas cards done -although we don't have many pics to choose from...hmm...
-Practice music (I'm singing in a quartet a beautiful arrangement of Silent Night. We had our first practice tonight and it WAS (mom) a lot of fun!)
-Find a b-day present for Wyatt...prob. anything spiderman... (Nana brought him this:)

And he was pretty stoked. Barely got him into his church clothes this morning!
-Get to the gym everyday
-Do 3 random acts of service

Looking forward to:
-Wyatt's b-day
-The LIGHT parade
-Primary Activity

W O W. Nearly two whole days w/out a post from my little fingers. :) I have been keeping busy, and busy is good...

Yesterday I worked on a proposal (work is always good in these times & it's gonna be a fun one!) And I discovered how FUN Facebook is!!! I love getting in contact w/ people I haven't seen in years! Very cool....I just don't like how it tells you every little thing your 'friends' have done or commented on or their friends have commented on...that's weird.

Last night I went to Jen's house...Jess is w/ her husband, John, down in Baja... We thought we'd get our boys together (she only has 5) for some dinner and a little Family Home Evening lesson...
EIGHT boys, and one sweet little baby girl. :) It was fun. I could not get a smile off my face watching all those boys have the time of their lives...Jen's backyard/driveway is AWESOME for riding bikes, and yup, we brought ours! (Even little Wyatt's) I was dying for my camera!!! We made spaghetti, salad & garlic bread which only took about 2 minutes (after we sat down of course, in the other room) to be thrown EVERYWHERE...thanks to my Wyatt for starting it, and McKay having to follow... :) They had a great time, I had a great time, and we 'kinda' had a lesson...I don't think we could've expected much more out of them...it was late -Brock was OUT before we hit the end of their driveway. :)

This morning a 'jam session' was held here - w/ my new-found friend, Michelle, and Ryan ended up joining in. We were able to harmonize on a couple songs I learned and we each played some of our favorites...it was SO MUCH FUN for me.

This afternoon I had a scare...I gave the boys popcicles and off Brock and Wyatt went outside to eat them. The next thing I know (5 min. later) I hear a man's voice (whose I recognize) and I look out back and there he is holding Wyatt, and Brock is with him...The boys had gotten out our back gate, and headed down the alley to a VERY BUSY STREET, and this man (my angel) saw them and stopped, recognized the rugrats, and brought them safely back. My heart stopped beating and my stomach lurched realizing what could have happened. I was so incredibly grateful that he had been driving by, and also felt like the most irresponsible, worst, (anything negative you can say) parent and incredibly embarrassed. He was so sweet to me, but told me, very father-like, to get a lock on that gate...which there now is. After he left, I dropped to my knees and said a repentant prayer, and one of deep gratitude. SCARY. I am still unsettled about it. Tonight when Wyatt was being a little stinker about going to bed, I just scooped him up and held him tight- thankful that I had him to hold tight...knowing that I could have been in a very different situation. blah! Makes me sick...

Tonight I had every intention of going to bed early (Heaven knows I needed to). But then I picked up Jess's guitar and found myself singing love songs into the computer...

This one is dedicated to my husband...

(Ingrid Michaelson cover..."The Way I Am")


I miss him.

What happened to my 4 (just about 5) year old?? Or is that just it...he is almost 5? Or maybe he is in preschool and picks things up from other kiddos?? Or....?

I just gave Bodie and Brock a dum-dum pop...Bodie came back to get a *3rd* one...I told him not right now - maybe tonight... He replied with, "Fine! I am totally out of here!" Earlier at Church I took a toy away because he was being too rowdy and told him he could get it back if he calmed down...I was met with "Fine! I'm leaving then!" Last night though...my jaw about hit the floor... I was getting the boys ready for bed. Bodie didn't want to lay down in his bed - he wanted to sleep in my bed. I told him he needed to sleep in his own bed because I knew if Bodie went to my room EVERYONE would have to. Then he said, "I'm just having a hard time with this!" (props to him for trying to explain his feelings) but THEN he said..."Fine! I'm just gonna get a NEW mom who let's me do what I want!" Of course Brock had to echo "Ya! We're gonna get two new Momma's!" *wha?* I don't even know what I said...something like "sorry you feel that way - that makes me sad." Needless to say, I woke early to find Wyatt and Bodie pushing me off my pillow....
The other day Bodie was riding his bike and I was pushing the other two boys in the double stroller...Brock was telling me to run faster and then he goes: "You're FIRED!" (think Cat in the Hat) Oh man....these kids. and, I just about die when I hear them say: "Are you kidding me?"

+++++++

Jess headed off to Baja on Thursday for the pre-run and race (Baja 1000). So far, so good....(here at home and for him). I got a text from him last night. They were just coming into Ensenada after two long, hard days of riding...hopefully I will hear from him today. I so need his listening ear right now and council. I think I need to start making a list of all the little (and big) things that pop into my head to tell him...even if it has to wait until he gets home...(not for another week!) sigh.

How the heck is it already mid-November?? I am still trying to wrap my head around that. Time moves so fast, and the year will be over before I know it...only 6 weeks. SIX WEEKS!

This picture pretty much sums up life at my house this week:


Goals:
-make it through the week
-get some small jobs done

looking forward to:
-visiting w/ friends
-giving my first guitar lesson...I'm pretty sure I will be teaching myself too.
-Seeing my sister and meeting my 1+ yr. old niece for the first time!!
-Having Jess back

Yesterday Jess and I cooked dinner for 2 family's that just had BAbiEs!!!! I took care of the White Turkey Chili & chocolate chip cookies, and he made a mean batch of salsa. (my favorite) When he and Ryan got back from the first house, I noticed it was S N O W I N G! I was instantly giddy, happy, and excited. No more mourning the loss of Summer or wanting to procrastinate the inevitable cold... Snow just makes everything alright. I just love how the sky gets all pink when it snows at night...


This morning we woke to beautiful clear blue skies and lots
of WHITE...And hyper boys that wanted outside ASAP.

It's gorgeous, peaceful, and FUN! The first thing Bodie asked
Jess this morning was, "Dad, can you take me skiing now?" :)

Winter seems rather romantic...being bundled up, sitting
by roaring fires, sipping hot chocolate and getting snowed
in...finding refuge in a warm, cozy home. That is the best.
And it reminds me of little babies... (We have an August and
2 December b-days) I took dinner to the 2nd Family, and got
to love on a little munchkin... Soooooo sweet. When we were
driving over there Bodie asked me if it was Christmas time...
because when it snows it's Christmas time. :) I love Seasons...

Last week was a lot of fun. I played guitar with a lady for 3 hrs....It was awesome, and I know there will be many, many more sessions like it. She has a great alto/tenor voice and we compliment one another quite nicely. Most importantly, I know my guitar playing skills are going to grow leaps and bounds. :) That's exciting.

I had a ton of fun with the boys too...we went to the park, road bikes, played in the neighbors sand pile and leaves, and enjoyed the sunny weather.

Yesterday was a visiting teaching conference -so I was able to go to Relief Society and the young women and young men took over our classes... It was a beautiful meeting, full of music and messages of humility, faith, hope & charity. I am part of an amazing group of women. I love every one of them.

Goals this Week:
-get rid of this cold that has taken my voice
-prepare for a meeting I have on Thurs.
-Sort through the boys' clothes.
-Have fun with my family
-practice, practice, practice new songs.

Looking forward to:
-Jess going out of town for 10+ days (NOT looking forward to)
-Seeing my in-laws.
-More snow, hopefully

I looked out the window and what did I see??

Beautiful leaves...leaves, and more leaves....(mostly on the ground.)
We didn't get to go see the leaves on the Mountain this year... Just as they were starting to change we got a huge freeze and lots of wind. That equals brown leaves on the ground. :( But, I was able to behold a beautiful site, right here in my back yard.

As I was taking pics, the sun started to set and the clouds in the sky started breaking up...



What we get to rake up...

I can't resist.

Goals this week:
-send OUT my thank-yous.
-get to the gym every day
-have some quality time with Jess
-Take the boys to Foxglen Park to ride bikes.

Looking Forward To:
-playing guitar w/ a gal...it's been awhile in the making!
-turning in my ballot
-helping in Bodie's classroom
-going to Sedona for a Color Trends 2009 put on by Sherwin Williams
-a baby shower