Now this boy has got it all figured out!
Another funny one, this morning Josh climbed up my shelf to get my weights down. He said..."Hey Mom, I got your muscles down for you."
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Josh-isms....
This little guy can be soo sweet. Lately he's been saying this a lot. "Like you Mommy, mmmm." Then he reaches his little arms around my neck to squeeze and puckers up and lands one on my cheek.
Now this boy has got it all figured out!
Another funny one, this morning Josh climbed up my shelf to get my weights down. He said..."Hey Mom, I got your muscles down for you."
Now this boy has got it all figured out!
Another funny one, this morning Josh climbed up my shelf to get my weights down. He said..."Hey Mom, I got your muscles down for you."
MIRACLES AND AMAZING GRACE
Whats this a picture of? Are you in disbelief? Can this be real? SNOW has Arrived! Miracle of miracles...my boys could hardly stand it!
Last week I told Jabren that we might get snow on Friday. His eyes shot straight to mine, wide and questioning with an expression that spoke "Are you serious...don't you joke around about something like that, Mom. This is serious. But are you serious? Do you really mean it?"
He looked like he could have cried. He longs for the snow.
He was at home sick on Friday, but I couldn't resist letting them play in the MIRACLE!
My friend Mary called at 7:45 a.m. to let me know it was coming down...in case we didn't know. It started to really come down around 11 am and we stared out the front window anticipating it sticking to the ground. The boys squealed with delight when they saw their best friend Clays' Dads truck slow down in front. They all waived in delight of the beautiful white stuff! (Clays school closed for the day.)
All this while the boys had put in a CD with AMAZING GRACE blasting on my new CD player. It was a powerful moment! My heart could have burst and I so wanted to tell somebody...then my sister in law Wendy called and so I screamed in her ear and laughed and she was patient with our fanatics!
I feel like the Lord answered three little boys prayers and mine.
Funny thing is, Josh and Jamesen went to get their swimming suits and flip flops! (I guess they forgot how this snow thing works...)
Not to mention they were hysterical and in tears when they came in. They didn't think frozen fingers were all that cool and their mom hasn't bought any snow gear in quite some time so we were a little unprepared...but a GREAT DAY!
Last week I told Jabren that we might get snow on Friday. His eyes shot straight to mine, wide and questioning with an expression that spoke "Are you serious...don't you joke around about something like that, Mom. This is serious. But are you serious? Do you really mean it?"
He looked like he could have cried. He longs for the snow.
He was at home sick on Friday, but I couldn't resist letting them play in the MIRACLE!
My friend Mary called at 7:45 a.m. to let me know it was coming down...in case we didn't know. It started to really come down around 11 am and we stared out the front window anticipating it sticking to the ground. The boys squealed with delight when they saw their best friend Clays' Dads truck slow down in front. They all waived in delight of the beautiful white stuff! (Clays school closed for the day.)
All this while the boys had put in a CD with AMAZING GRACE blasting on my new CD player. It was a powerful moment! My heart could have burst and I so wanted to tell somebody...then my sister in law Wendy called and so I screamed in her ear and laughed and she was patient with our fanatics!
I feel like the Lord answered three little boys prayers and mine.
Funny thing is, Josh and Jamesen went to get their swimming suits and flip flops! (I guess they forgot how this snow thing works...)
Not to mention they were hysterical and in tears when they came in. They didn't think frozen fingers were all that cool and their mom hasn't bought any snow gear in quite some time so we were a little unprepared...but a GREAT DAY!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Monday, November 30, 2009
Thanksgiving Traditions!
We had a great Thanksgiving this year. But no pictures to show for it. But the ones I do post are since then and portray the "picture".
So we invited our good friends Tiffany and Ernie for Thanksgiving. I've always imagined my future, knowing I'd be away from home as a married adult and having the full weight of holidays on me. So in stride I excitedly made lottsa pies!
At FHE a few weeks before Jake randomly asked everyone for their pie requests for the big day. Jabren-Lemon, Jake-Banana Cream and Chocolate Cream and Josh-pumpkin, and Jamesen-can't remember but the day of it was all about Cherry pie.
We woke up and sent Jake off to play at the "Turkey Bowl" with guys from church. Then we met up with him to watch. The boys played with sidewalk chalk while I visited with a few friends and watched our husbands pretend they were 18 again. (And since they're not some homes were permeated with the smell of Bengay instead of roasted turkey...)
But the biggest happiness of my day is that on this Thanksgiving Day one of my dreams came true. A dream I've had since I was married and wanted to have children.
My dream was that I wanted to teach my children how to love cooking and being in the kitchen helping with the food preparation. My theory was that so much of family get togethers involves food and the preparation of it, and I wanted that to be a fun, interactive quality time - part of the experience.
And there was a momemt (lasted about 5 minutes) about an hour or so before the Kamp's arrived that we were all in the kitchen stirring/slicing, blending, pouring something. All my boys were helping me make dinner. All of them. And each honestly contributing to the efforts. When the thought crossed my mind that this is what I've always wanted...I stood still and looked around at everyone-who were unaware of my realization-and I soaked it all in. Memorized the moment.
Now this may seem like such a nice dreamy, wonderful picture, I know. And it is; I am so grateful for this arrival. Because let me tell you something...this is an arrival. This desire has put me through the ringer time and time again. I have literally paid serious prices to reach this goal. "How so?" you might ask. Let me refer you to an older post...can't get the link thingy to work so if you're interested www.thompsonfamilylovingitall.blogspot.com/2008/04/busy-busy-boys.html
These are decent pretty pictures, but with an imagination you could probably conjure images that I didn't take pictures of of 3 boys under 4 thinking they can cook and be independent and do what they want and creating DISASTERS in my kitchen, instead of it being a "KIDS OFF LIMITS" Zone. Which, if, when I started working towards this with Jabren, I had known twins would follow and what that would entail I would have shrugged the whole idea off. Probably would have if I could have imagined the stress and havoc of it all. But I couldn't and I didn't so I got to enjoy Thanksgiving Day with all of us whipping up beautiful things like Chocolate and Banana Cream pies, and making Grandma's fresh cranberry relish and Jake prepping the Turkey platter....DELISH - all of this Day!
So we invited our good friends Tiffany and Ernie for Thanksgiving. I've always imagined my future, knowing I'd be away from home as a married adult and having the full weight of holidays on me. So in stride I excitedly made lottsa pies!
At FHE a few weeks before Jake randomly asked everyone for their pie requests for the big day. Jabren-Lemon, Jake-Banana Cream and Chocolate Cream and Josh-pumpkin, and Jamesen-can't remember but the day of it was all about Cherry pie.
We woke up and sent Jake off to play at the "Turkey Bowl" with guys from church. Then we met up with him to watch. The boys played with sidewalk chalk while I visited with a few friends and watched our husbands pretend they were 18 again. (And since they're not some homes were permeated with the smell of Bengay instead of roasted turkey...)
But the biggest happiness of my day is that on this Thanksgiving Day one of my dreams came true. A dream I've had since I was married and wanted to have children.
My dream was that I wanted to teach my children how to love cooking and being in the kitchen helping with the food preparation. My theory was that so much of family get togethers involves food and the preparation of it, and I wanted that to be a fun, interactive quality time - part of the experience.
And there was a momemt (lasted about 5 minutes) about an hour or so before the Kamp's arrived that we were all in the kitchen stirring/slicing, blending, pouring something. All my boys were helping me make dinner. All of them. And each honestly contributing to the efforts. When the thought crossed my mind that this is what I've always wanted...I stood still and looked around at everyone-who were unaware of my realization-and I soaked it all in. Memorized the moment.
Now this may seem like such a nice dreamy, wonderful picture, I know. And it is; I am so grateful for this arrival. Because let me tell you something...this is an arrival. This desire has put me through the ringer time and time again. I have literally paid serious prices to reach this goal. "How so?" you might ask. Let me refer you to an older post...can't get the link thingy to work so if you're interested www.thompsonfamilylovingitall.blogspot.com/2008/04/busy-busy-boys.html
These are decent pretty pictures, but with an imagination you could probably conjure images that I didn't take pictures of of 3 boys under 4 thinking they can cook and be independent and do what they want and creating DISASTERS in my kitchen, instead of it being a "KIDS OFF LIMITS" Zone. Which, if, when I started working towards this with Jabren, I had known twins would follow and what that would entail I would have shrugged the whole idea off. Probably would have if I could have imagined the stress and havoc of it all. But I couldn't and I didn't so I got to enjoy Thanksgiving Day with all of us whipping up beautiful things like Chocolate and Banana Cream pies, and making Grandma's fresh cranberry relish and Jake prepping the Turkey platter....DELISH - all of this Day!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Egg Roll Pictures
Earlier I posted a recipe for yummy Egg Rolls from Better Homes and Garden Cookbook that I've made a few times. Here's a picture of these yummy treats that I am so excited I learned how to make. Something about oil is intimidating but eh, I'm in the south right?
Friday, November 13, 2009
Most of the Time
Most of the time I am quite a happy person. I love my life. I love my husband. I love my kids. I know great truths because of the gospel that bring me a lot peace and joy and excitement.
I love opportunities especially if they involve new friends, old friends, and my family. I have a deep feeling of gratitude for all my blessings. I am completely content with much of my life.
I really do love life. I do.
But not today. Every once in a while. I do not love it all. Maybe I endure it all. I feel like I'm in that place in Dr. Suess' book. It all sounds great and sing songy and positive for those first few pages...."Oh the places you'll go." but I'm at the "except when you don't because sometimes you won't" place.
I'm in the "WAITING PLACE".
Lifes hard, sometimes very lonely, and exhausting and discouraging. I don't know how all this piled up into my whole one FRIDAY! But it did. Well, it really started yesterday, when my little sister left after a week with us. Gosh, I miss family. I feel like I had a little taste of chocolate and forgot how satisfying it is and my addiction is taking over...except I can't have anymore chocolate for quite some time. Now time for the withdrawal symptoms.
To make matters worse. I really can't find either of my phones. Further exponentiating my feeling alone and away from all that is dear to me. My family. I just want to sit in my parents livingroom and chat with my dad.
Or play their piano while kids run outside and dig deep holes in grandpa's garden. 
Or stay up later than is good for either of us, and talk deep talks with my mom.
Life just becomes very simple and stress free when I walk in the door at "home". Its peaceful and HOME. Missing it today. Need it today. Wish I could drive an hour and be there. Like it used to take. (Not the 29 hours that Mapquest claims it would take.)
So I'm existing in this moment until I have the courage to let it go and keep moving on with life.
I love opportunities especially if they involve new friends, old friends, and my family. I have a deep feeling of gratitude for all my blessings. I am completely content with much of my life.
I really do love life. I do.
But not today. Every once in a while. I do not love it all. Maybe I endure it all. I feel like I'm in that place in Dr. Suess' book. It all sounds great and sing songy and positive for those first few pages...."Oh the places you'll go." but I'm at the "except when you don't because sometimes you won't" place.
I'm in the "WAITING PLACE".
Lifes hard, sometimes very lonely, and exhausting and discouraging. I don't know how all this piled up into my whole one FRIDAY! But it did. Well, it really started yesterday, when my little sister left after a week with us. Gosh, I miss family. I feel like I had a little taste of chocolate and forgot how satisfying it is and my addiction is taking over...except I can't have anymore chocolate for quite some time. Now time for the withdrawal symptoms.
To make matters worse. I really can't find either of my phones. Further exponentiating my feeling alone and away from all that is dear to me. My family. I just want to sit in my parents livingroom and chat with my dad.
Or play their piano while kids run outside and dig deep holes in grandpa's garden. 
Or stay up later than is good for either of us, and talk deep talks with my mom.
Life just becomes very simple and stress free when I walk in the door at "home". Its peaceful and HOME. Missing it today. Need it today. Wish I could drive an hour and be there. Like it used to take. (Not the 29 hours that Mapquest claims it would take.)
So I'm existing in this moment until I have the courage to let it go and keep moving on with life.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Great Neighbors!
Our neighborhood is becoming a great place and we're loving it more everyday. Its taken a long year to get here. On Thursday Ms. Annabelle and her daughter Lynne said they had halloween cookie cutters and sprinkles and they would love to do sugar cookies with the boys. So this video is of all us making cookies Saturday morning. (note: video took too long and I'm not patience...thus no video.)
I'll put in a few pictures from other activities the boys have had in Ms. Annabelle's drive way. We love Ms. Annabelle and Lynne! Balloons made into dogs and mice. Compliments of Mr. Greg and Ms. Annabelle.
Glue and popsicle sticks...Perfect match for these boys. 
They have been so good to us and welcomed us with home made Venezualan cookies, scones, crepes, anything yummy they make - they share. We love it!
I'll put in a few pictures from other activities the boys have had in Ms. Annabelle's drive way. We love Ms. Annabelle and Lynne! Balloons made into dogs and mice. Compliments of Mr. Greg and Ms. Annabelle.
Glue and popsicle sticks...Perfect match for these boys. 
They have been so good to us and welcomed us with home made Venezualan cookies, scones, crepes, anything yummy they make - they share. We love it!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
And This Little Piggy went Wee-Wee-Wee All The Way Home
So This Little Piggy went to Market...WalMart to be exact. And my cashier was telling her coworker she wanted to go home. But she went home early the day before, and if she does she'll be penalized or given a bad mark. Then she see's me staring her down with a "WHAT?" look on my face; she just realized I was there. She quickly explains she feels MISERABLE and that yes its probably the FLU
Are kidding me!!! With all this H1N1 flu going around and here you are really sick-she definitely looked sick- and now you are handing me my receipt. She apologized. Uhhhh? Does that mean you'll be at my house to take care of me when I get sick and can't take care of my kiddos...BECAUSE YOU came to work?
Didn't even want my receipt, thank you! This was a bit ago, and we're fine. But I've been researching all the pro's and cons of the vaccine. I want to do whats best. Doubtful of getting it, but scared to make a wrong decision regarding my kids health either way.
Only advise given from Nancy Schneiderman on the Today Show was WASH your HANDS always and take sanitizing wipes with you everywhere....well this only goes so far in my book.
So I asked Jakes mom for anything she'd read or received-she's my go to girl in these situations. Here's what I found. http://www.naturalnews.com/027231_Vitamin_D_immune_system_vaccines.html An article discussing the reseach and evidence of Vitamin D.
VITAMIN D (SUNLIGHT) is soooooo crucial in staving off the Flu. Get yourself and your kids outside to play. Let them be in the sun for 20 minutes a day. The Vitamin D causes a chain reaction in the blood stream that takes on these flu microorganisms and allows the body to continue functioning without overeacting.
The article goes into more scientific detail and explanation, but plain and simple. We need sunlight. Everyday. If you're in a place that is too cold, I bet one of those lamps for people with SAD (season affected disorder) would do the trick.
The cool thing about this advise. No one profits. Nothing to gain from someone selling some product....VITAMIN D is FREE
I need more than washing hands and sterilizing everything. I want something working with me and my family from the inside out. My son is still in school. We still go to church where someone may cough or sneeze and particles will fly. Not to mention the vaccine is next to impossible to get here for a few more months.
I want these antimicrobial proteins mentioned in my blood stream taking on any avengers that I can't prevent from entering my world at the MARKET!
You don't have to totally believe in it, this might be a little "alternative" in thinking for those who don't go there, but its worth giving it a try. Try it out. See what happens. Do a science project. See if you keep healthy.
Their facts add up to me. And its one more thing in my arsenal in fighting the flu besides Motrin. This little piggy wants to sing "Wee wee wee, all the way home next time I go to Market!"
Are kidding me!!! With all this H1N1 flu going around and here you are really sick-she definitely looked sick- and now you are handing me my receipt. She apologized. Uhhhh? Does that mean you'll be at my house to take care of me when I get sick and can't take care of my kiddos...BECAUSE YOU came to work?
Didn't even want my receipt, thank you! This was a bit ago, and we're fine. But I've been researching all the pro's and cons of the vaccine. I want to do whats best. Doubtful of getting it, but scared to make a wrong decision regarding my kids health either way.
Only advise given from Nancy Schneiderman on the Today Show was WASH your HANDS always and take sanitizing wipes with you everywhere....well this only goes so far in my book.
So I asked Jakes mom for anything she'd read or received-she's my go to girl in these situations. Here's what I found. http://www.naturalnews.com/027231_Vitamin_D_immune_system_vaccines.html An article discussing the reseach and evidence of Vitamin D.
VITAMIN D (SUNLIGHT) is soooooo crucial in staving off the Flu. Get yourself and your kids outside to play. Let them be in the sun for 20 minutes a day. The Vitamin D causes a chain reaction in the blood stream that takes on these flu microorganisms and allows the body to continue functioning without overeacting.
The article goes into more scientific detail and explanation, but plain and simple. We need sunlight. Everyday. If you're in a place that is too cold, I bet one of those lamps for people with SAD (season affected disorder) would do the trick.
The cool thing about this advise. No one profits. Nothing to gain from someone selling some product....VITAMIN D is FREE
I need more than washing hands and sterilizing everything. I want something working with me and my family from the inside out. My son is still in school. We still go to church where someone may cough or sneeze and particles will fly. Not to mention the vaccine is next to impossible to get here for a few more months.
I want these antimicrobial proteins mentioned in my blood stream taking on any avengers that I can't prevent from entering my world at the MARKET!
You don't have to totally believe in it, this might be a little "alternative" in thinking for those who don't go there, but its worth giving it a try. Try it out. See what happens. Do a science project. See if you keep healthy.
Their facts add up to me. And its one more thing in my arsenal in fighting the flu besides Motrin. This little piggy wants to sing "Wee wee wee, all the way home next time I go to Market!"
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Brazos Bend River and Fun
Every month I go to a potluck and one of the sisters there was talking about her backyard and if they had raised their family there that her son would probably not be alive. Sister Gillespie said it was a "HEAVEN" for boys. She said she really would love it if we-anyone there- came over and played.
So as she was leaving I asked if she really meant what she said and we made plans for that Saturday! Seeing as how I live in house full of "BOYS"!
So my friend Jen Cobia and I made plans to meet at James and Merri's house and the fun immediately began. Jabrens favorite buddy Clay came along for the ride....HEAVEN all of it!
Oh what to do first?
Feed the horses carrots,
Ride the zip line.
Josh's preferred way of traveling back up from the ride... 
Swim in the Brazos River.
Play pretend on the itty bitty island.
Throw a football around and tackle in the current!
Go for boat rides. Or for a dip in the water after running down the ramp with the rope swing.
More zip line.
I knew what she meant about a boy heaven! Even Jens five girls loved it!
So here are a few of the pictures from our day.
We feel so excited and grateful for the people at church who have opened up their home and hearts and given us space in their lives. Its nice to have a place or home to go once in awhile since we miss out on so much of that with our own family.
It has been worth the experiences we've had with knowing and spending time with others.
LOVED THIS DAY!!! The next day at church the boys spent the entire Sacrament Meeting having Dad draw zip lines and boys flying down them. Love these memories!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Danny and The Dinosaur!
My Boy can Read!
I know he's six years old. He's known many words. But whenever I ask him to read he tells me no. So, I haven't pushed. Tonight we finished his journal (best idea for getting him to tell me what is going on at school-which he barely did through kindergarten)
Anyways, I told him he had time for one book, but tonight he had to read every word that I knew he knew and I'd help with the rest.
Opened the book and Jabren read away! I was gushing all over him! I called for daddy to come. All three of us snuggled up on his twin bed as he read to us! Big moment of excitement in our house!
We're pretty proud of him!
You know what the cool thing was
This is the book he read to us.
I vividly remember this story from when I was in first grade. I can remember reading it on the stairs at home; in my bedroom, in my class. When I see the artwork I remember how I felt about it as a kid. It totally takes me back to my mind as a child.
This is the book he chose to read tonight!
Cool how it ties my past with Jabrens big milestone!. Cool that my boy is reading! Three weeks ago a friend from church who taught first grade until this year told me don't worry about him not reading. One day it will just click! Yeah for click!
I know he's six years old. He's known many words. But whenever I ask him to read he tells me no. So, I haven't pushed. Tonight we finished his journal (best idea for getting him to tell me what is going on at school-which he barely did through kindergarten)
Anyways, I told him he had time for one book, but tonight he had to read every word that I knew he knew and I'd help with the rest.
Opened the book and Jabren read away! I was gushing all over him! I called for daddy to come. All three of us snuggled up on his twin bed as he read to us! Big moment of excitement in our house!
We're pretty proud of him!
You know what the cool thing was
This is the book he read to us.
I vividly remember this story from when I was in first grade. I can remember reading it on the stairs at home; in my bedroom, in my class. When I see the artwork I remember how I felt about it as a kid. It totally takes me back to my mind as a child.
This is the book he chose to read tonight!
Cool how it ties my past with Jabrens big milestone!. Cool that my boy is reading! Three weeks ago a friend from church who taught first grade until this year told me don't worry about him not reading. One day it will just click! Yeah for click!
Monday, August 17, 2009
Jabrens Deep Thoughts!
I took Jamesen and Jabren to a Western Road Show at our Stake Center on Saturday - Josh was asleep/sick before we left. The boys were excited because they knew there would be pie afterwards.
After 15 minutes of singing and dancing they couldn't wait for the refreshments any longer.
They kept asking if it was almost over yet. I'd reply not yet.
So then when a pioneer scene came along, Jabren asked "Mom, do you know why I like Pioneeers?"
Oh, awesome, he's getting interested in the show! Or so I thought.
I asked, "Why?"
He replied..."Because there's Pie in it."
(Get it... PIE-oneers!)
After 15 minutes of singing and dancing they couldn't wait for the refreshments any longer.
They kept asking if it was almost over yet. I'd reply not yet.
So then when a pioneer scene came along, Jabren asked "Mom, do you know why I like Pioneeers?"
Oh, awesome, he's getting interested in the show! Or so I thought.
I asked, "Why?"
He replied..."Because there's Pie in it."
(Get it... PIE-oneers!)
Friday, August 7, 2009
My Sister and Hidden Treasures
The other day I was talking to Peggy, my older sister. I'm always telling her she needs to write down the happenings in her life. They are not ordinary. At least in relation to hardly anyone else I know...
Her life is like no one I know. Her world is fascinating to me.
The whole reason for posting is the story she told me yesterday...very cool.
She was heading out to pick up some free produce someone had offered her, when the door bell rang. Her boy came and said there was a man who wanted to talk to her. At the door she found a 90 year old man who asked if she was who he was looking for and she asked what he wanted.
He had been looking for someone who still "canned". She said she did. He then told her he and many of his elderly neighbors had a lot of fruit trees that were ready for harvest and everything was just falling to the ground.
He told her he would like to see someone use it but couldn't find anyone who canned anymore!
Of course Peggy was really excited...free fruit! Then he asked, "Would you be willing to can some for me and I'd pay you for it?" Are you kidding me! Definitely, except for the paying you part. She was just delighted to have someone search her out and make such a great offer. He's bringing her his jars!
Okay, so maybe this is just an ordinary story, but its not to me. Here's what I see.
A couple months ago I picked up my Ensign and read Elder D. Todd Christoffersons conference talk on "The Power of Keeping Covenants". Something he addressed was very powerful to me.
He talked about the Word of Wisdom and that as we live this commandment we will blessed with "great knowledge and treasures, yea even hidden treasures."
I think I've tried hard to live this one. As a kid I thought "oh, new scrolls will be found with new revealing scriptures or something" but as soon as I remembered theses thoughts the idea came that, "No, this knowledge is referring to the blessing of finding allergy ellimination for my family through NAET." My kids rarely get sick anymore. I'm not scared of disease or ill-health. Though this is one blessing...
I wasn't done learning, yet.
A few days later I went out to our neighborhood garage sales. I found this Champion Juicer. Jakes parents have one and would make Jabren "strawberry/banana Ice cream" back when he was allergic to milk. He still prefers this kind of ice cream. Anyways, I asked really non-challantely "how much do you want for this?"
They were selling it for a friend and said two bucks!
Are seriously kidding me! I was really calm and said "If it works, I'll take it."
This is a $250 mahine! Older people buy them when they find out they have cancer and juice veggies to fight it. Plus, I had just spent about that much on my blender for similar reasons.
I want my kids growing up with this healthy stuff so they never know anything but good health.
Back to the hidden treasures thing. Total hidden treasure! Two bucks. I've been learning how much is hidden in this packed scripture referring to knowledge and hidden treasures.
My mom, Jakes mom and my sister have taught me or lead me to everything I've learned about raising a healthy family. Oh, we have a long ways to go, but we're trying.
But, thats just it. If you're trying it seems the Lord just brings things right to you. Like to your door step.
This man was offering her free food. She's preserving it. She's as "GREEN" as it gets. She lives off her land, has chickens, has a compost pile, prepares and eats nearly every meal from her home-just like they did way back when.
And others have found her so she can live off theirs, too!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Book Club Epiphany.
If you read my last post this will make some sense, I think.
It was at book club last month that two people were discussing music as a major. They were talking about how hard a music major is, and that they never saw their room mates who were in music and that by the time they finished their degree their room mates were sick of music.
To me, it seemed their conclusion was that it wasn't worth it to major in music to just end up hating it. Although a lot of their points had validity; when they came to their conclusion I kind of spoke what came to my heart. As I spoke what came to me, I realized a lot of why I do anything that I do that is challenging or hard.
So, my conclusion...yes studying music is very challenging. I did it for a year and anyone who finishes is quite amazing in my mind. But I also understand some of the reasons why they would choose it.
Theres something amazing about letting your fingers create an emotion on a piano. Watching someone play the piano and evoke intensity and emotion is almost painful for me to watch because my it resonates with me so much that I want to play, too. I desire to play that way. It takes a lot of training It literally makes me ache with desire.
So, I told my book club friends that thought it may be very hard to get a pianio/music degree, it would be worth it to be able to have the skill to play amazing. Something so powerful.
As I said these thoughts, I realized thats why I've been willing to go through painful changes in my life (joining a cross country team in h.s., but I'm not a runner, trying out for a performance choir that 6 years before I was elliminated from,living on nothing in college to avoid debt, moving away from my family and all that feels comfortable to me.)
I really want to experience so much while I'm on earth. I don't want to be afraid to try. I want to succeed in whatever comes my way. Or at least gain greater perspective just through attempting and trying.
I told you it was deep. (Probably incoherent as well, but if you follow that...good for you.)
It was at book club last month that two people were discussing music as a major. They were talking about how hard a music major is, and that they never saw their room mates who were in music and that by the time they finished their degree their room mates were sick of music.
To me, it seemed their conclusion was that it wasn't worth it to major in music to just end up hating it. Although a lot of their points had validity; when they came to their conclusion I kind of spoke what came to my heart. As I spoke what came to me, I realized a lot of why I do anything that I do that is challenging or hard.
So, my conclusion...yes studying music is very challenging. I did it for a year and anyone who finishes is quite amazing in my mind. But I also understand some of the reasons why they would choose it.
Theres something amazing about letting your fingers create an emotion on a piano. Watching someone play the piano and evoke intensity and emotion is almost painful for me to watch because my it resonates with me so much that I want to play, too. I desire to play that way. It takes a lot of training It literally makes me ache with desire.
So, I told my book club friends that thought it may be very hard to get a pianio/music degree, it would be worth it to be able to have the skill to play amazing. Something so powerful.
As I said these thoughts, I realized thats why I've been willing to go through painful changes in my life (joining a cross country team in h.s., but I'm not a runner, trying out for a performance choir that 6 years before I was elliminated from,living on nothing in college to avoid debt, moving away from my family and all that feels comfortable to me.)
I really want to experience so much while I'm on earth. I don't want to be afraid to try. I want to succeed in whatever comes my way. Or at least gain greater perspective just through attempting and trying.
I told you it was deep. (Probably incoherent as well, but if you follow that...good for you.)
Monday, June 8, 2009
Deep Thoughts...not really.
I feel very detached to this whole blogging thing. Sure I've posted here and there, but my typical self shares a whole lot more than just "egg-rolls". Because I haven't been sharing my DEEP THOUGHTS I feel disconnected in some way. But from whom am I detached? You, I suppose...aren't you the one reading this.
But at the same time, my thoughts have been so deep, sometimes profound - at least for me it is, very personal and real all at once that I don't even know how to take on any one single topic. Any time in life when I've made major changes I do a lot of reflecting and learning through metaphors. Here's a few of them.
For example: like coming to this earth for a body and life experiences (me moving away from my family).
We have no recollection of our former life. (I can see one benefit of no recollection...no homesickness and missing our loved ones there. Also, I'm wishing I didn't have a memory of all the things I miss about home.
Okay, so I live between two nice African-american families, I'm one of two white women on my block. My son was the only caucasian boy in his class. I've always wondered what it felt like for African-americans, especially in places like my hometown to always stand out where they are...there were so few if any that I can remember. (sorry, maybe this is such a taboo topic I really don't know...but its in my head and this is my blog, and yadah yadah)
Last Wednesday I found out for myself. Every mom from Jabrens class at the kindergarten graduation knew who I was and remembered me and said hello excitedly saying "Hi, how are you?" like they knew me.
My confused face would render the next comment... "You're Jabrens mom, remember me."
Now most of my life I've always been the one reminding people of how I know them and that we do know each other. Then I wait for the "aha" moment when they get it. Never, really almost, never does this happen the other way around. And these moms are the nicest, most genuine, and happy people. They radiate and are so warm. I love it.
Well thats a glimpse of what it feels like to be a minority...no matter what the minority is. Everyone notices you and knows you. I didn't realize that I was the minority that for them they could so easily spot out in a crowd. I like seeing how the "other shoe" fits.
Another thought is how much one appreciates what they have when they're away from it.
Familiarity and family...miss it. And yet, experiences totally new things is so rejuvinating. We have a really fun pot luck group and all these LDS girls, from here, are talking in foreign language. At least for me it might as well be. They were talking about food and restaurants using terminology and food reference I've never heard of.
At the same time. I'm learning to cook new things and try flavors in cooking I never would have come to on my own. Love the flavors used in southern cooking. Creole seasoning, deep fat frying, I can't even think of how many times I've had a pecan something-bread, pie, on top of stuff. Then there's these crawfish boils. Haven't been to one yet, only invited, but couldn't go. Its a southern tradition. Everyone knows about them, I guess. They boil huge batches of crawfish with a lot of southern seasonings, then you eat them. There's a lot more to it, I think, but its tradition. Its fun to know there's been these traditions going on for years and years and I've never even heard of them. I love learning new cultural ways. I'm loving the new dishes and spices I'm getting comfortable with making.
Then there's the people in my life. I've made really good friends with people I can't imagine not knowing.
This is a tanget, maybe, but when I was a freshman in highs school my parents took in a 16 year boy from the Republic of Georgia as an exchange student.
Dave Uznadze was just like my brother and sometimes I would just try to wrap my mind around the idea that I would have no clue about him, his life, his family, his culture, if he hadn't come to our home. He had spent 16 years growing up half way around the world, at the same time as me. I know, duh. But, I liked that I had the privilege of being a personal part of his life-his sister, really.
So thats one of my other deep thoughts: how could I live my whole life and not know so many people from all walks of life? Wouldn't I love to experience all that life and people have to offer? Yes, I wanted this.
With all the challenges of emotionally readjusting to a new neighborhood, a house that doesn't feel like home, like home did in our little house in Nampa; not having family close: we've been blessed with wonderful friends that are becoming our new family, we're making friends with neighbors that I couldn't imagine that the Lord didn't play part in our friendship.
Everything has a reason, a season, and is a blessing to experience.
Sometimes I wonder why I was so willing to walk into all these challenges and new life changing experiences away from what I know and is comfortable. There are moments when I think "Oh, my goodness, I was so niave and so innocent to happily want to try this. WHAT WA I THINKING!"
Last week at book club I had a window into why?
Its a post all on its own. Read Deep Thoughts to come.
But at the same time, my thoughts have been so deep, sometimes profound - at least for me it is, very personal and real all at once that I don't even know how to take on any one single topic. Any time in life when I've made major changes I do a lot of reflecting and learning through metaphors. Here's a few of them.
For example: like coming to this earth for a body and life experiences (me moving away from my family).
We have no recollection of our former life. (I can see one benefit of no recollection...no homesickness and missing our loved ones there. Also, I'm wishing I didn't have a memory of all the things I miss about home.
Okay, so I live between two nice African-american families, I'm one of two white women on my block. My son was the only caucasian boy in his class. I've always wondered what it felt like for African-americans, especially in places like my hometown to always stand out where they are...there were so few if any that I can remember. (sorry, maybe this is such a taboo topic I really don't know...but its in my head and this is my blog, and yadah yadah)
Last Wednesday I found out for myself. Every mom from Jabrens class at the kindergarten graduation knew who I was and remembered me and said hello excitedly saying "Hi, how are you?" like they knew me.
My confused face would render the next comment... "You're Jabrens mom, remember me."
Now most of my life I've always been the one reminding people of how I know them and that we do know each other. Then I wait for the "aha" moment when they get it. Never, really almost, never does this happen the other way around. And these moms are the nicest, most genuine, and happy people. They radiate and are so warm. I love it.
Well thats a glimpse of what it feels like to be a minority...no matter what the minority is. Everyone notices you and knows you. I didn't realize that I was the minority that for them they could so easily spot out in a crowd. I like seeing how the "other shoe" fits.
Another thought is how much one appreciates what they have when they're away from it.
Familiarity and family...miss it. And yet, experiences totally new things is so rejuvinating. We have a really fun pot luck group and all these LDS girls, from here, are talking in foreign language. At least for me it might as well be. They were talking about food and restaurants using terminology and food reference I've never heard of.
At the same time. I'm learning to cook new things and try flavors in cooking I never would have come to on my own. Love the flavors used in southern cooking. Creole seasoning, deep fat frying, I can't even think of how many times I've had a pecan something-bread, pie, on top of stuff. Then there's these crawfish boils. Haven't been to one yet, only invited, but couldn't go. Its a southern tradition. Everyone knows about them, I guess. They boil huge batches of crawfish with a lot of southern seasonings, then you eat them. There's a lot more to it, I think, but its tradition. Its fun to know there's been these traditions going on for years and years and I've never even heard of them. I love learning new cultural ways. I'm loving the new dishes and spices I'm getting comfortable with making.
Then there's the people in my life. I've made really good friends with people I can't imagine not knowing.
This is a tanget, maybe, but when I was a freshman in highs school my parents took in a 16 year boy from the Republic of Georgia as an exchange student.
Dave Uznadze was just like my brother and sometimes I would just try to wrap my mind around the idea that I would have no clue about him, his life, his family, his culture, if he hadn't come to our home. He had spent 16 years growing up half way around the world, at the same time as me. I know, duh. But, I liked that I had the privilege of being a personal part of his life-his sister, really.
So thats one of my other deep thoughts: how could I live my whole life and not know so many people from all walks of life? Wouldn't I love to experience all that life and people have to offer? Yes, I wanted this.
With all the challenges of emotionally readjusting to a new neighborhood, a house that doesn't feel like home, like home did in our little house in Nampa; not having family close: we've been blessed with wonderful friends that are becoming our new family, we're making friends with neighbors that I couldn't imagine that the Lord didn't play part in our friendship.
Everything has a reason, a season, and is a blessing to experience.
Sometimes I wonder why I was so willing to walk into all these challenges and new life changing experiences away from what I know and is comfortable. There are moments when I think "Oh, my goodness, I was so niave and so innocent to happily want to try this. WHAT WA I THINKING!"
Last week at book club I had a window into why?
Its a post all on its own. Read Deep Thoughts to come.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Egg Rolls!!!
I'm so excited to have a new dinner idea for the family that we all love. My friend Tiffany shared her home made egg rolls while I was at her house and they were so delicious that I wanted to try it out.
Then, later, my friend Arianne was hanging out with me and she asked me what was for dinner and she said she'd help me take on these egg rolls for my first time!
They were a hit and both husbands said this recipe was a keeper.
Here's the thing. They weren't that hard. If you've made chicken enchilada's you can definitely tackle this one!
Egg Rolls
16 egg roll skins
1 recipe pork filling
Cooking oil for deep fat frying
Bottled sweet-and-sour sauce or
chinese style hot mustard
Pork Filling:
Saute
1 pound ground pork
2 tsp. grated gingerroot
2 clove garlic, minced.
Drain fat when no longer pink
Add:
1 cup finely chopped bok choy or cabbage
1 cup chopped water chestnuts
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped onion
Stir Fry 2 minutes more.
Combine in bowl:
2 T. soy sauce
2 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp sugar
1/2 salt
Add to skillet. Cook and stir for 1 minute; cool slightly.
Instructions for wrapping should be on the wrap package. If not, use 1/4 cup of filling across and just below center of egg roll skin. Fold bottom corner over filling, tucking it under on th the other side. Fold side corners over filling, forming an envelope shape. Roll egg roll toward remaining corner. Moisten top corner with water; press firmly to seal.
In a heavy saucepan or deep-fat fryer heat 2 inches of oil to 365' Fry egg rolls a few at a time, 2 to 3 minutes or til golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.
Keep warm in a 300' oven while frying remainder. Serve warm with sauce.
I think the pork and wraps were the cheapest at Walmart by almost a dollar. But I buy gingerroot at HEB/Winco.
I'd love to hear if you try this. Later we made just veggie ones with lottsa extra cabbage, bean sprouts, chestnuts and carrots. We used dried ginger and Tony Chachery's Cajun seasoning, too.
So delicious!
Then, later, my friend Arianne was hanging out with me and she asked me what was for dinner and she said she'd help me take on these egg rolls for my first time!
They were a hit and both husbands said this recipe was a keeper.
Here's the thing. They weren't that hard. If you've made chicken enchilada's you can definitely tackle this one!
Egg Rolls
16 egg roll skins
1 recipe pork filling
Cooking oil for deep fat frying
Bottled sweet-and-sour sauce or
chinese style hot mustard
Pork Filling:
Saute
1 pound ground pork
2 tsp. grated gingerroot
2 clove garlic, minced.
Drain fat when no longer pink
Add:
1 cup finely chopped bok choy or cabbage
1 cup chopped water chestnuts
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped onion
Stir Fry 2 minutes more.
Combine in bowl:
2 T. soy sauce
2 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp sugar
1/2 salt
Add to skillet. Cook and stir for 1 minute; cool slightly.
Instructions for wrapping should be on the wrap package. If not, use 1/4 cup of filling across and just below center of egg roll skin. Fold bottom corner over filling, tucking it under on th the other side. Fold side corners over filling, forming an envelope shape. Roll egg roll toward remaining corner. Moisten top corner with water; press firmly to seal.
In a heavy saucepan or deep-fat fryer heat 2 inches of oil to 365' Fry egg rolls a few at a time, 2 to 3 minutes or til golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.
Keep warm in a 300' oven while frying remainder. Serve warm with sauce.
I think the pork and wraps were the cheapest at Walmart by almost a dollar. But I buy gingerroot at HEB/Winco.
I'd love to hear if you try this. Later we made just veggie ones with lottsa extra cabbage, bean sprouts, chestnuts and carrots. We used dried ginger and Tony Chachery's Cajun seasoning, too.
So delicious!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
"Funny-isms"
Looking at the world through the eyes of a child can be frustrating at times, but also really fun! When they're beginning to capture words to use to express how they understand their world it can be really amazing how you realize they are using their little brains...a lot.
I don't typically write down the things they say, which is probably really sad. They say so many very funny things. So before I forget them heres just a little bit of the conversations at our place.
Last night while laying in bed with Dad, Jamesen says,
"Daddy, I'm still hungry...I want another piece of bacon." Jake says "Bud theres a piece of bacon with your name on it and you may have it in the morning." "Nuh, uh, Daddy. Pens don't work on bacon only paper. You can't write on bacon."
Tonight Josh got food on his chin. As he cleaned it he touched it and asked "Mom is this my bottom cheek?"
I asked "what do you mean, Josh" He repeated himself, then touched his upper lip and asked "Is this a upper cheek?" "No Josh, that is your chip, and this is your upper lip."
(I never did clarify where his "bottom cheek" was. Ever mentioning that part of the body was just a taboo when you were around my mom!" :-)
One More: Jamesen was standing in front of Josh when he sneezed all over him. Josh said "Hey, don't bless-you on me!"
When I think of others I'll add them.
I don't typically write down the things they say, which is probably really sad. They say so many very funny things. So before I forget them heres just a little bit of the conversations at our place.
Last night while laying in bed with Dad, Jamesen says,
"Daddy, I'm still hungry...I want another piece of bacon." Jake says "Bud theres a piece of bacon with your name on it and you may have it in the morning." "Nuh, uh, Daddy. Pens don't work on bacon only paper. You can't write on bacon."
Tonight Josh got food on his chin. As he cleaned it he touched it and asked "Mom is this my bottom cheek?"
I asked "what do you mean, Josh" He repeated himself, then touched his upper lip and asked "Is this a upper cheek?" "No Josh, that is your chip, and this is your upper lip."
(I never did clarify where his "bottom cheek" was. Ever mentioning that part of the body was just a taboo when you were around my mom!" :-)
One More: Jamesen was standing in front of Josh when he sneezed all over him. Josh said "Hey, don't bless-you on me!"
When I think of others I'll add them.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Just Normal for us...Houston Living
So, we've lived here 7 months now and everyday life is different than we're used to but its becoming our normal.
So whats our normal...well let me explain a few occurrances of just this last week.
#1:
Wednesday night, the 21st - Ran over a 3 foot snake, probably a Western Cotton Mouth. It was thick and big looking. I turned the car around to get a good look at it. Next morning, I took the boys to go see it after dropping Jabren off, then had to take him to see it after school. By then it was just smashed...maybe I'm morbid for checking it out so much but it was huge. For all the near hits with animals I've had since moving here I knew it was inevitable.
For info on it check out: http://www.wf.net/~snake/moccasin.htm
#2:
Friday night, the 23rd- Went to the Houston Miller outdoor theatre - that offers free productions. Our Relief Society went to watch The Golden Dragon Acrobats of China. They were amazing and awesome, just wished the boys could have seen it. Absolutely incredible Here's a preview link if you want to see something amazing-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bl8f2B9sVFY&feature=player_embedded.
Thankfully we were under the amphitheatre , because it down-poured. And its was completely free to the public...Houston is a huge supporter of the Arts-love it!
Okay but thats not the only reason for this #2, theres also what we watched happen in traffic on our way there. So, the drive into Houston has tollways, and regular freeways. I went with someone who had ez-tag for the tollways. Some of my friends, who I was going to go with, got stuck in traffic on the beltway.
As we drove above their road we saw tons of cop cars and a lot going on. Next to no traffic was moving and it was seriously backed up. We knew they weren't going to make it anytime soon.
So what was going on? We later found out. An unmarked semi truck was escorted off to the side of the road by the police. By the time our friends came to the scene (1 1/2 hrs after we passed it) the cops were escorting the truck off the main freeway and my friends took the same exit. The police drove to a bunch of coached buses with drivers waiting to drive away with the contents of the truck.
This semi truck was loaded with ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS. The buses were there to load them up and send them back to MEXICO!!!
#3 Tuesday morning 28th - No warning except my dad had said something to me on Monday about there being heavy rainstorms coming right over us here. (He flies his airplane around, thus he keeps up on weather status'.)
I told him no rain, just a beautiful day. Well, 3 am Tuesday I awoke to extreme thunder, lightening, and rain. I lay there thinking "Well, now that its here, it'll be over soon". WRONG!!! I layed in my bed awake for almost two hours! (I usually sleep through most anything) An hour of it was intense Boom, rumble, crash, non stop lit up sky. So the other hour: down pour rain, thunder and lightening but at least it didn't feel like a war in heaven was happening over our house! I closed my eyes a lot hoping sleep would take me and it did for about 10 minutes before the little boys woke up just before 5 A.M. and thus our day began....Still rain and lightening, but it wasn't loud anymore.
Okay-here's the thing. Jake sat in traffic for 2 1/2 getting to work, cars were off in ditches. Some intersections in Houston were under 10+ feet of water. Schools closed for the day because teachers were flooded in. This was no simple desert thunderstorm. As water drained from roadways, they found fully submerged vehicles! Everywhere! There were so many lightening strikes they couldn't find where tornado's had hit on the radar even though they have strong evidence they did in area's east of Houston. Is this not crazy? This is insane! Our area was completely fine, and Jabren had school, but the news was full of vehicle recovery, passenger rescue, and homes that had had to rip out all the carpet in their homes because they had so much water. People interviewed on the news claimed the damage was far worse than anything Ike did to their area. Conclusion...at least hurricanes you get a warning time to get outta here!
Click here for a slideshow of the area flooding. http://www.click2houston.com/slideshow/news/19310359/detail.html
Thankfully, I didn't feel panicked. But it didn't even cross our minds to check the news to see if Jake should wait to go to work. It poured 10" during the night. To get perspective, thats about 4 inches away from my Idaho's yearly average-crazy.
So, I'm re-assessing what weather related activity precautions need to be made.
And finally:
#3: Swine Flu Fears:
So its in the news...usually whats in national news hasn't really come close to home for us. Well, our church leaders have been prepping us through church website info and local meetings that we should prepare for pandemics...so I'm thinking I should take more precautions. At the same time I'm thinking to myself "my kids rarely get sick with stuffy noses, colds, coughs or fevers." We'll probably be fine on this one since we haven't been to Mexico anytime recently. Then yesterday Jamesen had a good strong fever. (We haven't had one in so long I couldn't even find my thermometer) He was lethargic, and no appetite. So I'm thinking its just a fever, but "what if its not". So as I awoke in the night last night I start thinking what if its something worse, like swine flu...whats the worst case scenario...but its unlikely to be that so I told myself to chill out.
We've taken good care of him and all day today he's been fine, but as he sleeps right now I know he's not feeling good...maybe we pushed it too much today.
Then, today in Houston, the first US death to Swine flu was confirmed. A two year old boy who visited relatives in Mexico was sent back to Houston for health care.
(Not to mention, if I pulled Jabren out of school for a few days til the health scare calms down I could get fined $300-500 from the district for too many absences, already had a warning since he's missed 8 (2 for Idaho trip, 2 for family visits, and 4 for health related-my goodness, I mean really. This could carry on its own post but I'm not ready to go there....) Maybe they'd make exceptions considering our county has confirmed its first case today.
So there you have it...whats been on my mind, in my life and new world.
Please take this as just a place to unload. I'm not freakin' out or anything, so don't stress out on my behalf, please. It's just a different world, and we're adjusting and thats taking time and wanted to clue in anyone who made it to the end of this long rant on just what our life here is a bit like.
So whats our normal...well let me explain a few occurrances of just this last week.
#1:
Wednesday night, the 21st - Ran over a 3 foot snake, probably a Western Cotton Mouth. It was thick and big looking. I turned the car around to get a good look at it. Next morning, I took the boys to go see it after dropping Jabren off, then had to take him to see it after school. By then it was just smashed...maybe I'm morbid for checking it out so much but it was huge. For all the near hits with animals I've had since moving here I knew it was inevitable.
For info on it check out: http://www.wf.net/~snake/moccasin.htm
#2:
Friday night, the 23rd- Went to the Houston Miller outdoor theatre - that offers free productions. Our Relief Society went to watch The Golden Dragon Acrobats of China. They were amazing and awesome, just wished the boys could have seen it. Absolutely incredible Here's a preview link if you want to see something amazing-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bl8f2B9sVFY&feature=player_embedded.
Thankfully we were under the amphitheatre , because it down-poured. And its was completely free to the public...Houston is a huge supporter of the Arts-love it!
Okay but thats not the only reason for this #2, theres also what we watched happen in traffic on our way there. So, the drive into Houston has tollways, and regular freeways. I went with someone who had ez-tag for the tollways. Some of my friends, who I was going to go with, got stuck in traffic on the beltway.
As we drove above their road we saw tons of cop cars and a lot going on. Next to no traffic was moving and it was seriously backed up. We knew they weren't going to make it anytime soon.
So what was going on? We later found out. An unmarked semi truck was escorted off to the side of the road by the police. By the time our friends came to the scene (1 1/2 hrs after we passed it) the cops were escorting the truck off the main freeway and my friends took the same exit. The police drove to a bunch of coached buses with drivers waiting to drive away with the contents of the truck.
This semi truck was loaded with ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS. The buses were there to load them up and send them back to MEXICO!!!
#3 Tuesday morning 28th - No warning except my dad had said something to me on Monday about there being heavy rainstorms coming right over us here. (He flies his airplane around, thus he keeps up on weather status'.)
I told him no rain, just a beautiful day. Well, 3 am Tuesday I awoke to extreme thunder, lightening, and rain. I lay there thinking "Well, now that its here, it'll be over soon". WRONG!!! I layed in my bed awake for almost two hours! (I usually sleep through most anything) An hour of it was intense Boom, rumble, crash, non stop lit up sky. So the other hour: down pour rain, thunder and lightening but at least it didn't feel like a war in heaven was happening over our house! I closed my eyes a lot hoping sleep would take me and it did for about 10 minutes before the little boys woke up just before 5 A.M. and thus our day began....Still rain and lightening, but it wasn't loud anymore.
Okay-here's the thing. Jake sat in traffic for 2 1/2 getting to work, cars were off in ditches. Some intersections in Houston were under 10+ feet of water. Schools closed for the day because teachers were flooded in. This was no simple desert thunderstorm. As water drained from roadways, they found fully submerged vehicles! Everywhere! There were so many lightening strikes they couldn't find where tornado's had hit on the radar even though they have strong evidence they did in area's east of Houston. Is this not crazy? This is insane! Our area was completely fine, and Jabren had school, but the news was full of vehicle recovery, passenger rescue, and homes that had had to rip out all the carpet in their homes because they had so much water. People interviewed on the news claimed the damage was far worse than anything Ike did to their area. Conclusion...at least hurricanes you get a warning time to get outta here!
Click here for a slideshow of the area flooding. http://www.click2houston.com/slideshow/news/19310359/detail.html
Thankfully, I didn't feel panicked. But it didn't even cross our minds to check the news to see if Jake should wait to go to work. It poured 10" during the night. To get perspective, thats about 4 inches away from my Idaho's yearly average-crazy.
So, I'm re-assessing what weather related activity precautions need to be made.
And finally:
#3: Swine Flu Fears:
So its in the news...usually whats in national news hasn't really come close to home for us. Well, our church leaders have been prepping us through church website info and local meetings that we should prepare for pandemics...so I'm thinking I should take more precautions. At the same time I'm thinking to myself "my kids rarely get sick with stuffy noses, colds, coughs or fevers." We'll probably be fine on this one since we haven't been to Mexico anytime recently. Then yesterday Jamesen had a good strong fever. (We haven't had one in so long I couldn't even find my thermometer) He was lethargic, and no appetite. So I'm thinking its just a fever, but "what if its not". So as I awoke in the night last night I start thinking what if its something worse, like swine flu...whats the worst case scenario...but its unlikely to be that so I told myself to chill out.
We've taken good care of him and all day today he's been fine, but as he sleeps right now I know he's not feeling good...maybe we pushed it too much today.
Then, today in Houston, the first US death to Swine flu was confirmed. A two year old boy who visited relatives in Mexico was sent back to Houston for health care.
(Not to mention, if I pulled Jabren out of school for a few days til the health scare calms down I could get fined $300-500 from the district for too many absences, already had a warning since he's missed 8 (2 for Idaho trip, 2 for family visits, and 4 for health related-my goodness, I mean really. This could carry on its own post but I'm not ready to go there....) Maybe they'd make exceptions considering our county has confirmed its first case today.
So there you have it...whats been on my mind, in my life and new world.
Please take this as just a place to unload. I'm not freakin' out or anything, so don't stress out on my behalf, please. It's just a different world, and we're adjusting and thats taking time and wanted to clue in anyone who made it to the end of this long rant on just what our life here is a bit like.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Spring Break with Grandpa and Grandma
Though we've lived in Texas only 6 months we've enjoyed many family visits here. Jakes Mom and Dad came and stayed with us for a week and we had a lot of fun with them and did a lot of different things. Though we've loved the weather here, it wasn't great for the first half of their visit, which meant some cabin fever for us all.
I'll try to do a slide show of pictures, since there's so many fun ones. This video is from our last day with them when we went to the Houston Childrens Museum.
It was so much fun for the boys and us adults. The museum is hands on fun for everyone.
This conveyor belt kept the boys busy for about 30 minutes and would have for longer if we would have let it. I need one of these at my house!
We thoroughly wore the boys out, and possibly us too. We went to San Antonio for the day and saw the The Alamo, took a boat ride on the Riverwalk and enjoyed good food. Another day we drove to the beach in Galveston. Too cold for even me to get in. The boys played in the sand and collected stuff on the sand.
The last day with Grandma and Grandpa here we went to The Childrens Museum and it was perfect for entertaining three busy and creative boys. Highly recommend it!
Besides the comings and goings we spent time at home and Grandpa did lots of fix it jobs around the house-which was such a blessing! It was such a pleasure to have Grandma around helping with entertaining kids with playdough and baking, to making food and helping with dishes. We were spoiled by them and enjoyed their company and having family with us...its so rare that we enjoyed it more than usual.
(Small world moment: On the way to S.A. I saw someone in another vehicle and I casually said "That guy looks like Uncle Wendall-Grandpa T's brother in law. Two weeks later we learned he was there on military business. The vehicle I saw was pulling an army ATV. It was very probably him!)
I'll try to do a slide show of pictures, since there's so many fun ones. This video is from our last day with them when we went to the Houston Childrens Museum.
It was so much fun for the boys and us adults. The museum is hands on fun for everyone.
This conveyor belt kept the boys busy for about 30 minutes and would have for longer if we would have let it. I need one of these at my house!
We thoroughly wore the boys out, and possibly us too. We went to San Antonio for the day and saw the The Alamo, took a boat ride on the Riverwalk and enjoyed good food. Another day we drove to the beach in Galveston. Too cold for even me to get in. The boys played in the sand and collected stuff on the sand.
The last day with Grandma and Grandpa here we went to The Childrens Museum and it was perfect for entertaining three busy and creative boys. Highly recommend it!
Besides the comings and goings we spent time at home and Grandpa did lots of fix it jobs around the house-which was such a blessing! It was such a pleasure to have Grandma around helping with entertaining kids with playdough and baking, to making food and helping with dishes. We were spoiled by them and enjoyed their company and having family with us...its so rare that we enjoyed it more than usual.
(Small world moment: On the way to S.A. I saw someone in another vehicle and I casually said "That guy looks like Uncle Wendall-Grandpa T's brother in law. Two weeks later we learned he was there on military business. The vehicle I saw was pulling an army ATV. It was very probably him!)
Saturday, April 4, 2009
BUYERS REMORSE
You Get What You Get, and You Don't throw A Fit.
I just read this title on a friends blog and wished I had this little saying in my head 5 hours ago.
Here's the deal: I'm dealing with buyers Remorse.
I have 3 boys, and summer is here. They all need new sandals and shoes. I don't want to spend much money to accomplish it. I never do. Well, Jabren saw the shoes he wanted and there was nothing else for him. I tried to convince him to try on others shoes.
Nope not an option. I've never been in this situation with him before. Or at least its been a really long time. He wanted these BADDDDD. I've always found a way to persuade him and get him out of this situation
Urggghhhh! I want him to have shoes just like all his friends at school and the neighbor kid-they all wear sketchers. But I also don't think I should spend $40 dollars on a pair of shoes for a five year old. Maybe I'm sounding cheap...anyways, he just wanted them so bad and we even went to Payless and their shoes looked so cheap.
If I had time and the patience of a child I would have searched for longer, but two stores had him spent and my time for looking was gone and I didn't want to spend forever to find something he didn't want anyways...But my child needs to learn the value of what he's wanting and that his wants need to be tempered. And a whole lot of other important $$$ lessons.
Urgghhh...but in the future I know have the words I needed tonight
YOU GET WHAT YOU GET AND YOU DON'T THROW A FIT!
How do you handle these situations with older kids...I've had it mastered with my younger kids...but somethings changed. And I'd love to hear your input.
I just read this title on a friends blog and wished I had this little saying in my head 5 hours ago.
Here's the deal: I'm dealing with buyers Remorse.
I have 3 boys, and summer is here. They all need new sandals and shoes. I don't want to spend much money to accomplish it. I never do. Well, Jabren saw the shoes he wanted and there was nothing else for him. I tried to convince him to try on others shoes.
Nope not an option. I've never been in this situation with him before. Or at least its been a really long time. He wanted these BADDDDD. I've always found a way to persuade him and get him out of this situation
Urggghhhh! I want him to have shoes just like all his friends at school and the neighbor kid-they all wear sketchers. But I also don't think I should spend $40 dollars on a pair of shoes for a five year old. Maybe I'm sounding cheap...anyways, he just wanted them so bad and we even went to Payless and their shoes looked so cheap.
If I had time and the patience of a child I would have searched for longer, but two stores had him spent and my time for looking was gone and I didn't want to spend forever to find something he didn't want anyways...But my child needs to learn the value of what he's wanting and that his wants need to be tempered. And a whole lot of other important $$$ lessons.
Urgghhh...but in the future I know have the words I needed tonight
YOU GET WHAT YOU GET AND YOU DON'T THROW A FIT!
How do you handle these situations with older kids...I've had it mastered with my younger kids...but somethings changed. And I'd love to hear your input.
Monday, March 30, 2009
What we want from our Lives
No pictures today but just a few thoughts. With all the negative news that fills the financial and political air waves it seems easy to get down.
When Jake and I were talking the other day he made a comment and it calmed me and gave me focus and some sense of peace and control.
He stated that "We should start thinking about what we want to accomplish in our lives and not what we don't have, yet."
I love it when he has simple insights that make me shift my thinking enough to change my day, and even my week. There is plenty for me to do, without worrying about what I can't.
When Jake and I were talking the other day he made a comment and it calmed me and gave me focus and some sense of peace and control.
He stated that "We should start thinking about what we want to accomplish in our lives and not what we don't have, yet."
I love it when he has simple insights that make me shift my thinking enough to change my day, and even my week. There is plenty for me to do, without worrying about what I can't.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
"I Want to Be a Daddy"
Thursday afternoon I was driving through the elementary school Pick up line. When you pull up in front of Jabrens school there are 6 large cones on the curb each with a 5th grader to open the door and let your child in, then they shut the door behind them. Its a beautiful day so my windows are down.
So as I'm driving past the first four cones, heading for Jabren a couple of 5th grader boys yell into my van. . . "Hey, your son says he wants to be a daddy when he grows up!" Their voices sound as if they think this is really unusual, and even kind of cool, or awesome. I'm not for sure. Then I stop at Jabrens cone and there are not just one but like 3 big kids guiding my little kindergartener to the car.
One kid leans in to tell me the same thing. "You're boy said he wants to be a daddy when he grows up."
These three kids are all grinning like "Thats cool, never thought of that." Quickly I state "Well, that must be because he has a pretty awesome Daddy and he wants to be just like him!" It seemed he had captured the attention of all the kids that day with his ambitions.
Well, when did wanting to become a daddy become such a novel ideal? I loved that the kids actually seemed to think this was a cool thing. They really seemed surprised and enjoyed the remark instead of teasing him. I hope it made them think about putting that into their future goals along with saving the earth, becoming the next president, or being independantly wealthy!
Jabren didn't have much to say about it. Couldn't get him to tell me what they were talking about. Figures.
So as I'm driving past the first four cones, heading for Jabren a couple of 5th grader boys yell into my van. . . "Hey, your son says he wants to be a daddy when he grows up!" Their voices sound as if they think this is really unusual, and even kind of cool, or awesome. I'm not for sure. Then I stop at Jabrens cone and there are not just one but like 3 big kids guiding my little kindergartener to the car.
One kid leans in to tell me the same thing. "You're boy said he wants to be a daddy when he grows up."
These three kids are all grinning like "Thats cool, never thought of that." Quickly I state "Well, that must be because he has a pretty awesome Daddy and he wants to be just like him!" It seemed he had captured the attention of all the kids that day with his ambitions.
Well, when did wanting to become a daddy become such a novel ideal? I loved that the kids actually seemed to think this was a cool thing. They really seemed surprised and enjoyed the remark instead of teasing him. I hope it made them think about putting that into their future goals along with saving the earth, becoming the next president, or being independantly wealthy!
Jabren didn't have much to say about it. Couldn't get him to tell me what they were talking about. Figures.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Mom and Dad Come to Visit for Christmas!
The most exciting company we've had yet in our home here in Texas-GRANDMA and GRANDPA! Need I say more. They're always a big hit with my boys. They stayed for two weeks and I don't know where the time went. We were able to do quite a few fun things like: Christmas preparations, start some projects in the house,
Grandma made some cool home made play dough and played for literally hours with it and the boys.
Put puzzles together- a favorite memory as a kid with my dad and his family
Grandpa played the piano! I loved having payback for all the years we played in our home growing up for his "enjoyment". I enjoyed working in my house while he played away. Its awesome to hear music-real music, in my home. He is becoming quite the pianist. I think its very cool my dad (not to mention Jakes dad, too) take piano lessons! My boys naturally think thats what grandpa's do.
We went to San Antonio to the Alamo and The Riverwalk for a boat tour.
We also had dinner with Brother Beck, a member of our ward bishopric. (My mom babysat for his Mom and Dad 50+ years ago! Is that not crazy? This mans family is a large part of why my mom wanted to have a big family. (Thus I'm here) Brother Beck and I were both amazed when the bishopric came for a family visit, that we had connections in the smallest town ever- McKinnon, Wyoming.-Ever heard of it?
Also, my mom nannied a summer for her aunts two boys and one of them lives about 20 minutes from me. So we visited my cousin, Tom, and his kids Christmas night. His kids are my age and it was so fun to be with family, though I've only met them once before in my life.
The first night they were here was our Relief Society Christmas ornament exchange and dinner. It was awesome to have my mom see all my new friends and favorite new people. It was the perfect way to introduce my mom to my life. Everyone was so genuine and kind and down to earth. Most of the girls I've met my age really wanted to meet her, it seemed and even waited their turn to introduce themselves. It occurred to me that a lot of us women are living away from our moms and so having a mom around is like having "our" mom around. We all crave closeness to home.
Also, Jabren had Grandma and Grandpa eat lunch with him at the school cafeteria. I think my mom was blown away. She enjoyed looking at all these beautiful children chatting away at the table-some of who were speaking so fluently in their second language and being so young. Jabren is a total minority. There's maybe 1 in 7 who are white. We have all cultural backgrounds in our school and neighborhood and I enjoy that this is his normal now.
This is the first time in all my life that I've had both my parents come for a visit. Throughout the years we've hosted one or the other. Being from a large family one on one is pretty rare for any length of time and I just relished having them all to myself. All in all, it wasn't like having company at all. I felt so at home in our new home for the first time. My boys slept the best they've slept since moving here. I forgot that really they're mine. They're my mom and dad. I've waited 28 years to have them all to myself and I loved every minute of it. Jake was a trooper, too, he was content and happy being displaced and not having his wife all to himself. He was awesome! The kids loved having undivided attention and I loved having someone to chat with and do everyday dishes and laundry with at all times. Actually, I really should not take credit for any dishes-my mom, with Jake's help from time to time, did nearly all the dishes the whole time. Dad and I did very few-and enjoyed every bit of it!
Funny side note story that just comes to mind that relates to this (at least for me) When Jabren was just little I got soooo sick with strep. After a few days of doing nothing but blending in with the sofa, and barely meeting Jabrens needs, I called my Mom 4 1/2 hours away. I really was always very independent as a teenager, and up to this point had never felt desperate for my mom. Now I wanted her more than ever. Well, I was exhausted but getting better when my mom arrived with my little sister in tow. When my mom walked in I gave her a hug and just cried. Relief had arrived. I needed her. After we settled in Juleen remarked that even though she knows we're all siblings and that mom is all our mom-it had never sunk in on such a real level that mom is mom for me, just as mom is mom for her. Not until she saw me hug my mom and cry. That was the first time she realized she was my mom, too. If you get that. I do. (Sorry thats just a whole other funny post. Anyways. . .does anyone relate?)
This is by far the best picture I got on Christmas morning-Cameral issues -grrrrrhhhhhh!
Nonetheless, I love how happy Jabren looks when he opened a flashlight from Grandma and Grandpa Thompson. They spoiled the boys and somehow it just seems right that there are some classic gifts that are just that-Classic. They never go off the favorites list!
So alas, some pictures from the visit-my camerea was having issues so they didn't turn out great but still. . .
Grandma made some cool home made play dough and played for literally hours with it and the boys.
Put puzzles together- a favorite memory as a kid with my dad and his family
Grandpa played the piano! I loved having payback for all the years we played in our home growing up for his "enjoyment". I enjoyed working in my house while he played away. Its awesome to hear music-real music, in my home. He is becoming quite the pianist. I think its very cool my dad (not to mention Jakes dad, too) take piano lessons! My boys naturally think thats what grandpa's do.
We went to San Antonio to the Alamo and The Riverwalk for a boat tour.
We also had dinner with Brother Beck, a member of our ward bishopric. (My mom babysat for his Mom and Dad 50+ years ago! Is that not crazy? This mans family is a large part of why my mom wanted to have a big family. (Thus I'm here) Brother Beck and I were both amazed when the bishopric came for a family visit, that we had connections in the smallest town ever- McKinnon, Wyoming.-Ever heard of it?
Also, my mom nannied a summer for her aunts two boys and one of them lives about 20 minutes from me. So we visited my cousin, Tom, and his kids Christmas night. His kids are my age and it was so fun to be with family, though I've only met them once before in my life.
The first night they were here was our Relief Society Christmas ornament exchange and dinner. It was awesome to have my mom see all my new friends and favorite new people. It was the perfect way to introduce my mom to my life. Everyone was so genuine and kind and down to earth. Most of the girls I've met my age really wanted to meet her, it seemed and even waited their turn to introduce themselves. It occurred to me that a lot of us women are living away from our moms and so having a mom around is like having "our" mom around. We all crave closeness to home.
Also, Jabren had Grandma and Grandpa eat lunch with him at the school cafeteria. I think my mom was blown away. She enjoyed looking at all these beautiful children chatting away at the table-some of who were speaking so fluently in their second language and being so young. Jabren is a total minority. There's maybe 1 in 7 who are white. We have all cultural backgrounds in our school and neighborhood and I enjoy that this is his normal now.
This is the first time in all my life that I've had both my parents come for a visit. Throughout the years we've hosted one or the other. Being from a large family one on one is pretty rare for any length of time and I just relished having them all to myself. All in all, it wasn't like having company at all. I felt so at home in our new home for the first time. My boys slept the best they've slept since moving here. I forgot that really they're mine. They're my mom and dad. I've waited 28 years to have them all to myself and I loved every minute of it. Jake was a trooper, too, he was content and happy being displaced and not having his wife all to himself. He was awesome! The kids loved having undivided attention and I loved having someone to chat with and do everyday dishes and laundry with at all times. Actually, I really should not take credit for any dishes-my mom, with Jake's help from time to time, did nearly all the dishes the whole time. Dad and I did very few-and enjoyed every bit of it!
Funny side note story that just comes to mind that relates to this (at least for me) When Jabren was just little I got soooo sick with strep. After a few days of doing nothing but blending in with the sofa, and barely meeting Jabrens needs, I called my Mom 4 1/2 hours away. I really was always very independent as a teenager, and up to this point had never felt desperate for my mom. Now I wanted her more than ever. Well, I was exhausted but getting better when my mom arrived with my little sister in tow. When my mom walked in I gave her a hug and just cried. Relief had arrived. I needed her. After we settled in Juleen remarked that even though she knows we're all siblings and that mom is all our mom-it had never sunk in on such a real level that mom is mom for me, just as mom is mom for her. Not until she saw me hug my mom and cry. That was the first time she realized she was my mom, too. If you get that. I do. (Sorry thats just a whole other funny post. Anyways. . .does anyone relate?)
This is by far the best picture I got on Christmas morning-Cameral issues -grrrrrhhhhhh!
Nonetheless, I love how happy Jabren looks when he opened a flashlight from Grandma and Grandpa Thompson. They spoiled the boys and somehow it just seems right that there are some classic gifts that are just that-Classic. They never go off the favorites list!
So alas, some pictures from the visit-my camerea was having issues so they didn't turn out great but still. . .
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Anna Came to Visit!
Well, I've been in Texas for 4 months and I finally got to see a friend from home. Anna was the first girl I met in my ward when we moved to Nampa. We have literally so much in common its crazy! I've never met anyone with so many similarities in our families. So when she sent me a note that she was in Houston I jumped at the opportunity to go see her! It was sooo rejuvinating to see a familiar face from my past. Thanks Anna for getting in touch with me so I could see you! My only regret is that we didn't hang out more often. She is so much fun and genuine. Anna made my last night in Nampa one to remember. We had had enrichment, then she frieked out when I told her it was my last night and gathered up a few of our friends and said we were going to do whatever I wanted-no limits. We did just that. We went to my house and just chatted-my favorite thing to do with my friends.
Some of the things we have in common:
1. We are the 7th of 9 children in our family,
2. Our moms were the same age when we were born (32) and
3. Our mothers both have their moms living with them, who are also born within a few months of each other.
4. Both our oldest siblings got married on the same day (June 12, 1992)
5. Birth order is the same except in reverse. Mine is Boy-girl-girl-boy-boy-boy-girl-boy-girl. Anna's is the same if you started at the end with a girl and ended with a boy. (Too confusing, I know)
6. We both have 3 boys and love having boys.
7. We both love people
8. can't remember anymore. . .
Enough coincidences. . .its crazy!
Some of the things we have in common:
1. We are the 7th of 9 children in our family,
2. Our moms were the same age when we were born (32) and
3. Our mothers both have their moms living with them, who are also born within a few months of each other.
4. Both our oldest siblings got married on the same day (June 12, 1992)
5. Birth order is the same except in reverse. Mine is Boy-girl-girl-boy-boy-boy-girl-boy-girl. Anna's is the same if you started at the end with a girl and ended with a boy. (Too confusing, I know)
6. We both have 3 boys and love having boys.
7. We both love people
8. can't remember anymore. . .
Enough coincidences. . .its crazy!
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